The Shadow of What Was Lost

James Islington

64 pages 2-hour read

James Islington

The Shadow of What Was Lost

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014

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Book Brief

James Islington

The Shadow of What Was Lost

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

736

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy
Setting

Andarra • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Memory

Regret

Future
Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Shadow of What Was Lost by James Islington is a fantasy novel that follows a young individual named Davian, who discovers hidden powers challenging societal norms. As darkness threatens the world, Davian and his friends embark on a perilous journey, uncovering ancient secrets and battling malevolent forces. It is the first installment in the The Licanius Trilogy.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Fantastical

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

James Islington's The Shadow of What Was Lost has been praised for its intricate world-building and compelling magic system. Critics have highlighted its strong character development. However, some readers felt the plot was predictable and derivative of other fantasy works. Overall, it's appreciated for its engaging narrative and immersive setting.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Shadow of What Was Lost?

Fans of complex, character-driven epic fantasies, such as Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time and Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series, will relish James Islington’s The Shadow of What Was Lost. Ideal for readers who appreciate intricate world-building, political intrigue, and a touch of mystery in their fantasy narratives.

Character List

A sixteen-year-old with curly black hair and a notable scar, Davian is a novice with hidden abilities searching for belonging and purpose, facing challenges that test his courage and self-discovery.

Fifteen-year-old Asha, with loose blond hair and sea-green eyes, transforms from a Gifted to a Shadow, and uses her intelligence and determination to fight for justice and equality against societal oppression.

Known for his brashness and cleverness, 16-year-old Wirr is Davian’s loyal friend who secretly harbors a royal identity while balancing his ideals with the responsibilities of leadership.

A character wrapped in mystery due to amnesia, Caeden navigates guilt and seeks redemption, revealing layers of his past throughout the story.

A 45-year-old Gifted with a scarred face, Taeris acts as a mentor and protector, guiding younger characters on their perilous journey with wisdom and hidden motivations.

As the 18-year-old daughter of King Andras, Karaliene displays diplomatic skill and strength, finding balance between duty and personal connections.

Siblings entwined with royal affairs, Dezia is a skilled archer, and Aelric's initial arrogance evolves into empathy, providing insight into the aristocratic lifestyle.

Duke Elocien, influenced by the Augurs Erran, Fessi, and Kol, becomes part of a complex alliance, reflecting the political intricacies and moral dilemmas within Andarra's society.

Book Details
Pages

736

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy
Setting

Andarra • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Memory

Regret

Future
Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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