3 / 5 Stars!
Released today!!
Sanctuary of the Shadow is an interesting premise. We start in the world of the Salizar’s circus, where Harrow is hiding in plain sight as a fortune teller. We get hit with the mystery of Raith and get to see his character develop even though he has no memory. The two are immediately drawn together and both have missing pieces of their pasts to find.
I’m honestly really split on this book. The idea of it is fantastic, but the writing often kept me from staying totally in the moment. A lot of the storyline and relationships seem to move too quickly.
I expected the circus to play a bigger part of the story, and I’m a bit disappointed that less of it was explored or developed, as I think that would have added so much to the world building.
The side characters were my favorite parts of the book. Nashira and Malaikah both drew me in more than Harrow and Raith did. I really hope that a certain snake is explored more in the next book too.
Overall, I’m glad that I read it, and if the next book is about Malaikah’s journey, then I’ll definitely be reading it!
I received a review eARC provided by the publisher for an honest review. This beautiful edition pictured is also on its way to me, purchased by me!
Blurb from author’s website:
Enter at your own risk―and discover the greatest show unearthed in this explosive, darkly imaginative debut fantasy…
For humans, the circus is a place filled with wonder and amazement. For Harrow, though, it’s a place to hide from those who slaughtered her entire clan. Disguising her abilities as part of her act has kept her true identity safe for years.
Until he arrives.
A strange new attraction with no name, no memory of who―or even what―he is, let alone an explanation for his odd yet deadly powers. But beneath the layers of anger and isolation, one glimpse into his inky eyes reveals a soul that calls out to the loneliness in her own.
And so she chooses him.
Harrow is drawn to the darkness, to her insatiable need to soothe the beast who threatens their very existence. But with every secret she unlocks from his past, another from hers whispers free as well―luring enemies who will stop at nothing to get their final revenge on Harrow. And she’s afraid she’s given them the perfect weapon against her…because he’s not what he seems.
But maybe it’s time they finally learn―neither is she.
