Reign of Shadows by Sophie Jordan

Rating: 5/5

Summary:

Seventeen years ago, an evil chancellor took over the kingdom of Relhok, and an eclipse encases the kingdom with darkness which summons creatures to lurk in the shadows. Luna, the lost princess of Relhok, is hidden away from the evil chancellor in the tallest tower. This book is a fast-paced Rapunzel-retelling with a twist.

Strengths of the story:

The best part was the detailed description and it was for a reason. The story is told in dual perspective one of which is Luna. Her perspective is very descriptive as the main character is blind. The author is dependent on the other senses such as texture, sound, feeling, and scent which made it way more immersive and easily to delve into. The ending was cliché and I did expect it but I loved it either way.

Weaknesses of the story:

There's so much potential to the plot of this book with the main character being blind. I wish there were more action scenes and new characters to meet along the way.

My opinion of the story:

I loved it! It is my go-to book for comfort and to get me out of a reading slump. The author is really good at setting the scene by giving texture, feeling, sensations, smell, and sounds that may be overlooked by others. It all adds to this magical land regardless of the creatures that lurk at night.

Ten short questions about the book:

1. How long did it take you to read the book?

I believe I finished it the day I got it, I was too excited to wait until I got home.

2. What made you choose to read this book?

It took me an hour to choose it. I chose it because it was a Rapunzel-retelling but with a different backstory as to why she was stuck in a tower.

3. In which country does the story take place?

The country does not exist in real life but its called the Roan Kingdom. A fantasy kingdom called Relhok.

4. Who is the main character / characters?

Luna and Fowler.

5. Who is your favourite character in the book? Explain why.

Luna because regardless of her disability, she learned how to fight and be independent by using her other senses to "see".

6. Is it a happy or sad book? Explain why.

It's a happy book because at the end, Luna regains her rightful throne and total darkness is no more.

7. What kind of person would enjoy reading this book?

A beginner to YA books or teenagers 13+

8. Where did you get this book from?

Borders.

9. What did you learn from this book?

Regardless of what you don't have, you use what do have to your advantage.

10. What would you change about the story?

I would probably add more action scenes and more emotional scenes. Everything seemed a bit too convenient for Luna.