Title: Silberschatten
Author: Richelle Mead
First published July 29, 2014
385 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9783802595547 (ISBN10: 3802595548)
Rating: 4.34
Overview
In Richelle Mead’s Silberschatten, Sydney Sage’s worst nightmare has become a reality. Betrayed by her own sister Zoe, she finds herself imprisoned by the Alchemists.
Sydney has committed the ultimate taboo in their society – engaging in a romantic relationship with a vampire and joining forces with rebels. Will her magic be strong enough to protect her from the brainwashing tactics of her own people?
Follow Sydney’s perilous journey as she fights to retain her free will and stay true to her heart.
About the Author
Richelle Mead is a renowned author of urban fantasy books for teens and adults. She has achieved the distinction of being a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author.
Richelle hails from Michigan but has made Seattle, Washington her home. She is currently working on three series full-time, namely, Georgina Kincaid, Dark Swan, and Vampire Academy.
Richelle has been an avid reader all her life and has a special interest in mythology and folklore. When she isn’t busy reading or writing books, she likes to indulge in guilty pleasures, such as watching bad reality TV, traveling, trying new and interesting cocktails, and shopping for dresses.
Richelle confesses to being a coffee addict and loves anything that is quirky and humorous.
Editoral Review
Richelle Mead’s Silberschatten is a captivating addition to the young adult paranormal romance genre. Mead, who is best known for her bestselling Vampire Academy series, brings her signature blend of action, romance, and intrigue to this standalone novel, which was first published on July 29, 2014.
Set in contemporary New York City, Silberschatten follows the story of sixteen-year-old Sydney Sage, an alchemist who is tasked with protecting the Moroi (a race of vampire-like beings) from the Strigoi (the Moroi’s undead and evil counterparts). Sydney is not like the other alchemists, however, as she is also a seer who can see into the future.
When she has a vision of a mysterious silver shadow that threatens to destroy both the Moroi and the Strigoi, Sydney must team up with Adrian Ivashkov, a Moroi prince with whom she shares a forbidden love, to uncover the truth behind the shadow and save their world from destruction. Mead’s writing style is crisp and engaging, with tight pacing that keeps the story moving forward.
She excels at character development, bringing both Sydney and Adrian to life with complex personalities and motivations that drive the plot. Mead also delves into timely themes such as prejudice, discrimination, and social injustice, providing a rich depth to the story that elevates it beyond a simple paranormal romance.
One of the strengths of Silberschatten is its world-building. Mead has created a rich and complex world that is filled with magic, mythology, and supernatural beings.
The setting of New York City provides a familiar backdrop that is perfect for the story’s action-packed scenes, while the lore of the Moroi and the Strigoi adds a layer of depth to the plot. While the romance between Sydney and Adrian is a central aspect of the story, it never overshadows the plot’s action and suspense.
The tension created by the impending danger of the silver shadow keeps the reader on edge, while the growing sense of danger and urgency provides a palpable feeling of dread that is sure to keep readers flipping the pages. However, Silberschatten does have a few flaws.
Some readers may find the twist at the end of the novel to be predictable, while others may feel that Mead’s exploration of social issues is not fully realized. Additionally, some of the secondary characters are underdeveloped, making it difficult for readers to fully invest in their fates.
Overall, Silberschatten is a must-read for fans of young adult paranormal romance. Mead’s writing is strong and imaginative, the world-building is rich and engaging, and the romance is both swoon-worthy and believable.
While the novel is not without its flaws, it is a solid addition to the genre that is sure to captivate readers. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
