Title: Promise of Shadows
Author: Justina Ireland
First published March 11, 2014
371 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781442444645 (ISBN10: 1442444649)
Rating: 3.59
Overview
Kai has never quite fit in with the other Nephilim. He spends more time practicing his guitar than honing his demon-hunting skills, and his magic is weaker than most.
Kai was content with a future as a normal human until his best friend is taken by the very demons they were supposed to be protecting the world from. Kai uses a forbidden dark power to save his friend and is forced to flee from the Nephilim’s wrath.
That’s when he meets Zephyr, a girl with a mysterious past and even more mysterious powers. She might just be the key to fulfilling a prophecy that’s been foretold for centuries.
But as the danger mounts and the truth about Zephyr’s identity is revealed, Kai realizes that saving the world might mean sacrificing everything he holds dear.
About the Author
Justina Ireland, a bestselling author, has written several books that have captivated readers worldwide. These include Dread Nation and its follow-up Deathless Divide, Ophie’s Ghosts (winner of the Scott O’Dell award for historical fiction), and a range of Star Wars titles such as Flight of the Falcon: Lando’s Luck, Spark of the Resistance, A Test of Courage, Out of the Shadows, and Mission to Disaster.
In addition to her writing, Ireland was the editor in chief of FIYAH Literary Magazine of Black Speculative Fiction, which earned her a World Fantasy Award. She graduated from Armstrong Atlantic State University (now known as Georgia Southern) with a BA in History, and later received an MFA in Creative Writing from Hamline University.
Ireland’s upcoming book, Rust in the Root, is set to be released in September 2022.
Editoral Review
The Promise of Shadows by Justina Ireland is a young adult fantasy novel that was first published in March 2014. Set in the world of Greek mythology, this book is packed with adventure, magic, and unforgettable characters.
Justina Ireland is an award-winning writer known for her ability to create immersive and diverse worlds, and The Promise of Shadows is no exception. The novel follows protagonist Zephyr Mourning, who is a Harpy.
She lives in a world where mortals and mythological creatures coexist, but she’s been cursed by the Fates and sent to Tartarus, the underworld of Greek mythology. However, Zephyr is given the opportunity to redeem herself and regain her wings if she agrees to help the Olympian gods defeat the Titans who have escaped from their prison.
Along the way, she meets other mythological creatures, including a satyr and a centaur, who join her on her quest. The premise of the book is intriguing, and Ireland does an excellent job of world-building.
Her descriptions of Tartarus and its inhabitants are vivid and captivating. The character development is also impressive; Zephyr is a compelling protagonist whose journey will keep readers engaged until the very end.
The book is also filled with action and suspense, making it a fast-paced read. One of the strengths of the book is its portrayal of diversity.
The characters come from different backgrounds and cultures, and their differences are celebrated rather than belittled. The theme of redemption is also well-executed, and readers will find themselves rooting for Zephyr as she strives to regain her wings.
However, the book isn’t perfect. The pacing can be a bit uneven at times, and some of the supporting characters could have been developed more.
Additionally, the book’s ending feels a bit rushed and unsatisfying. Overall, The Promise of Shadows is an enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of young adult fantasy.
Justina Ireland’s writing is excellent, and her attention to detail is commendable. While it may not be perfect, the book is worth checking out for its imaginative world-building and diverse cast of characters.
I would recommend The Promise of Shadows to anyone who enjoys young adult fantasy, especially those looking for books that celebrate diversity. It will also appeal to fans of Greek mythology and adventure stories.
On a scale of 1-5, I give this book a solid 4 stars.
