Book: The Book of Shadows by R.G. Wesley
Reviewed by Ashley M
Rating: 4/5
Book Review: The Book of Shadows (The Graveborn Series, #2)
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Picking up after the events of The Strange Hour , Seph Hart is stranded in a foreign land, grieving her losses but fueled by a singular mission: to rescue her love, Alex, from a demon prince. Accompanied by her loyal friend Simon, Seph must navigate a sprawling "tapestry of worlds," forging alliances with unpredictable entities and uncovering secrets that suggest her quest is part of a much darker, grander design.
Writing Style and Pace
Style: Vivid and visceral. Wesley uses evocative physical descriptions (e.g., the sensation of "bone grinding against bone") to anchor the reader in Seph’s perspective.
Pace: Relentless and action-packed. While the high stakes keep the energy up, the constant "portal-hopping" and influx of new information can occasionally feel overwhelming, creating a "whirlwind" effect.
Character Development
Seph Hart: A polarizing lead. Her absolute devotion to Alex is her engine, but her impulsiveness and "petulant" disregard for warnings provide a source of friction. Her true arc lies in the internal struggle to accept her emerging powers.
Simon: Serves as the essential emotional anchor and comedic relief. His witty banter and loyalty balance Seph’s intense, single-minded focus.
Supporting Cast: Characters like Gamori and Val act as necessary "reality checks" for Seph, grounding the narrative when her choices become exasperating.
World Building
Wesley showcases "imaginative prowess" by introducing a vast array of new creatures and dimensions. Notable revelations, such as Bri’s connection to "Fae nobility," expand the series' lore significantly, though the sheer scale of the expansion sometimes risks detaching the reader from the core mission.
Emotional Impact
The book successfully blends high-octane action with "genuinely tender and passionate moments." The emotional payoff of Seph finally surrendering to her power is described as a "powerful and long-awaited breakthrough" for the reader.
Themes and Messages
The Weight of Sacrifice: What must be given up to claim one’s true power.
Devotion vs. Obsession: The thin line between love and a self-destructive single-mindedness.
Identity: Seph’s journey toward accepting her Graveborn nature and her "darkest fears."
Content Warnings
Graphic: Physical violence (bone-grinding descriptions), kidnapping/captivity, and intense emotional loss.
Themes: Betrayal, demonic entities, and sacrifice.
Recommendations and Rating
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
Recommended for: Fans of contemporary portal fantasy, urban fantasy romance, and "strong but flawed" female leads.
If you liked this, try:
The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare (for the demon-hunting/angelic lore).
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout (for the evolving heroine and fast-paced twists).
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas (for the whirlwind adventure and passion).