Honest review of Dance of the Shadow Walkers

In Angelina Bruno's Dance of the Shadow Walkers, meet Nicodemus Crawford, a Vermont teenager with a unique problem: he can talk to the dead and hunt demons. The son of the literal gods of Life and Death, Nick inherits immense power, but his abilities quickly spiral out of control. Transported to the world of Elementals, Nick is thrust into a destiny as a Death Elemental, a path paved by prophecy and the pursuit of an ancient, universe-altering force. This coming-of-age story explores Nick's struggle to balance his burgeoning godhood with the complexities of adolescence, questioning free will against a predetermined fate. Can he control his powers, his destiny, and ultimately, his place in a universe determined to shape him?

Hardcover 23.99 USD

Paperback 19.99 USD

4.5 / 5 ratings

Review Dance of the Shadow Walkers

Oh my goodness, you guys, I just finished "Dance of the Shadow Walkers" by Angelina Bruno, and I'm completely buzzing! This book was such a wild ride, and I honestly can't wait for the sequel. From the very first page, I was hooked. Nicodemus, with his ability to chat with the dead and hunt demons – a normal Tuesday for him, I guess – is just such a relatable and lovable character, even with the whole "son of the gods of Life and Death" thing hanging over his head. The world-building is phenomenal; Bruno really painted such a vivid picture of this world, blending the familiar Vermont forests with the fantastical realm of the Elementals. It felt so immersive, I could practically smell the pine needles and feel the chill of the otherworldly air.

What really stood out for me was the romance between Nick and Odysseus. It’s so beautifully written, deeply felt, and genuinely touching. Their connection felt real, the development gradual and believable, not rushed or forced. It adds a beautiful layer of complexity to Nick's already incredible journey. I'll admit, I wish the synopsis had hinted at the gay romance aspect. While the surprise element was undeniably exciting, a subtle mention would have better prepared some readers, and might have attracted a wider audience eager for that kind of representation. It’s a unique and important aspect of the story, and it deserves to be highlighted. Perhaps a line about unexpected connections or finding love in unexpected places could have worked beautifully. That being said, the execution of the romance itself was masterful.

Beyond the romance, the action scenes were explosive and engaging. The fight choreography was impressive, making the battles feel both visceral and important to the overall narrative. The pacing of the story was excellent; it never felt rushed, allowing me to connect with the characters and fully appreciate the world Bruno has created. And Sebastian? Oh my gosh, that eccentric character is pure gold! His quirks added so much fun and levity to the story, providing a great contrast to the heavier themes.

I also want to praise the level of representation in the book. It's so refreshing to see such a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique personality and struggles. The way Bruno handles Nick's journey of self-discovery, grappling with his immense power and destiny, is both insightful and inspiring. He's not just a powerful being; he's a teenager trying to figure out his place in the world, and that makes him incredibly relatable, despite his extraordinary circumstances. The entire narrative glides along beautifully, effortlessly drawing the reader in and keeping them captivated until the very end. I literally read half the book in one sitting! I can't recommend "Dance of the Shadow Walkers" enough. It’s a fantastic read with compelling characters, breathtaking world-building, and a romance that will steal your heart. I'm eagerly anticipating book two!

Information

• Dimensions: 6 x 1.31 x 9 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 581
• Publication date: 2024

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