Title: Shadows Before the Sun
Author: Kelly Gay
First published July 31, 2012
352 pages, ebook
ISBN: 9781451625509 (ISBN10: 1451625502)
Rating: 4.23
Overview
In a world where life and death are not always clear-cut, Charlie Madigan finds herself on a mission to save her partner from the torturous grasp of the Circe. The journey takes her to the heavenly off-world destination of Elysia, where she must navigate unknown dangers and uncertain alliances.
Meanwhile, back on Earth, a jinn crime boss is on the hunt for a divine being, setting off a chain reaction that puts Charlie in the crosshairs of a shadowy creature known only as Death. As the stakes grow higher and the danger intensifies, Charlie must race to save not only her partner but also the city she calls home.
Will she succeed, or will vengeance awaken and change everything forever?
Editoral Review
Kelly Gay’s Shadows Before the Sun is a harrowing tale of love, betrayal, and the fight for power. Published in 2012, this novel is a part of Gay’s popular Charlie Madigan series, which falls under the urban fantasy category.
The novel revolves around Charlotte “Charlie” Madigan, a police officer in Atlanta who works in the Integration Task Force, a special unit that handles supernatural crimes. The world Gay has built is complex, with multiple dimensions, supernatural beings, and a rich history.
The novel takes place in a world where humans live alongside beings such as demons, angels, and goblins. The concept is familiar to readers of urban fantasy, with Buffy the Vampire Slayer and True Blood being popular examples.
The story starts with Charlie trying to save her sister Bryn from a powerful being named Marley. Marley had taken Bryn’s body as his host and was using her to gain power.
The novel takes the reader on a wild ride as Charlie sets out on missions to rescue her sister and gather information, all while fighting for her own survival. Gay has done an excellent job with character development.
Along with Charlie, there are several other characters who are fighting for their own agendas. Their goals and desires conflict with Charlie’s, making for an interesting dynamic.
Moreover, Gay effectively deals with the consequences of characters’ actions. As a result, the story feels grounded and realistic, despite its fantastical setting.
Gay’s writing style is compelling, with vivid descriptions that draw the reader in. The pacing of the story is well-done, keeping the reader engaged throughout.
The plot structure is tight, with no unnecessary scenes or subplots. Additionally, the themes of power, love, and betrayal are explored masterfully, adding depth to the story.
One possible drawback of Shadows Before the Sun is that some of the supernatural elements, such as the different dimensions, may be confusing for readers who are not familiar with the genre. However, Gay does not let these elements get in the way of the story, and they are explained well.
Overall, Shadows Before the Sun is an excellent urban fantasy novel. Its fast-paced and action-packed storyline, coupled with compelling characters and vivid descriptions, will appeal to readers of the genre.
For those familiar with urban fantasy, this novel stands out as a must-read. For those less familiar, it’s still worth giving it a chance.
Gay’s writing and storytelling abilities make for an engaging and captivating read. Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
