I really struggled to get into this and just found the whole story confusing.
It might just be me but I won't be reading any more of this series.

3,5★

Representation: MC is a gay black man married to an Arab man

Let’s start with that this is a very fast read. I was just turning pages effortlessly and if not for the fact that I was a bit busy lately I would be done with it in 1-2 days. It’s one of those books that just flows naturally most of the time and short chapters help with that for sure.

I also like the worldbuilding. I loved the shadow based powers and even though with some things connected to the Circle I felt like I had to suspend my disbelief (yes, it’s a magical society. I know. But still, there were some ‘huh?’ moments where I didn’t want any) - it was really interesting.

I liked the contrast between Jules’ grandmother’s philosophy and teaching and the Circle’s ways. It felt really fresh and the mental image of one old woman strong enough to oppose the biggest institution of her world in any way was one hell of a mental image. Also, I liked how she had a sort of mentor position even though we mostly hear about her in Jules’ stories.

Nevertheless, I felt like it started with a prologue that lasted 3 chapters and then the action was pretty slow for the first half of the book.

When we finally got to the first battle I didn’t really know what was going on because there was little build up towards it and then all those characters introduced just before it left me confused. I just couldn’t keep track of them all.

I had no idea what’s Jules’ goal most of the time? He constantly claimed he just wants a normal life with his husband and son but a) he kept circling around the Circle (I couldn’t help myself, sorry…) and that left him a bit indecisive which I really don’t like in a MC and b) most of his relationship with his husband focused on Jules keeping him in the dark about his powers (...and yet again with the puns) so this wasn’t 100% believable.

I liked the social issues which were brought up but the way in which this was done made me feel like I was reading an essay? I hoped it would be woven into the story instead of just kind of stated.

The story was set in modern times but I kinda felt like I was in an 80s movie for some reason? I have no idea why (maybe it's the shady government and a bit cheesy dialogue but who knows) but it was something. I think it gave the story a special feeling, at least for me.

The story had some flaws but I would like to read more of it and see how it develops.

This was a very pleasurable read indeed! I found the magic system to be something fresh and new-ish, which is a rare thing for me. The characters are fun and cool and varied in their powers, which is cool.

For a first novel in a series, I did feel that I didn't get to know the characters as well as I would've liked, but again - that makes me want to read more from this series, so...point author I guess. *lol*

A solid 4 stars for this one, and a definite recommendation.

I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review. This is the first book I have read from this author but it won't be the last. It starts with a man on a bus, but not an ordinary man. He is a Shadowmancer. This book has shadows; goblins and ghouls, blood drinkers and marrow suckers. We really don't want to forget the djinns.. I was captivated by the imagery and creativity. This book is a labor of love.
'As with all things , love is all that matters, love for all and for every living thing.'