Fun, fast paced, adventurous read! Unique plot and great characters. Overall, very enjoyable and fun.

Thank you Netgalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

"The Shadow Road" by K.D. Kirchmeier is a unique entry in the post-apocalyptic genre, distinguished by its hopeful tone amidst a world beset by peril. This book is just so full of hope, especially at the end, that made me really enjoy this book, even more so than the standard post-apocalyptic book that tend to be more depressing. “The Shadow Road” introduces a landscape torn apart by electric dragons, known as the blitz, which have plunged society into darkness and chaos. Towns and cities lie in ruins, and survivors must navigate a country filled with danger, from roving gangs to the omnipresent threat of death. Yet, amid this devastation, Kirchmeier creates sense of magic and wonder that transforms fear into moments of awe. This is a book that I would highly recommend to younger YA readers, maybe even MG readers, and I also recommend this book for any fans of both post-apocalyptic fiction as well as fantasy fiction (there is a lot of unique mythology introduced in the book).

The protagonists, Thomas and Cassie, are particularly compelling. Thomas, a timid dreamer, and Cassie, a daring and outspoken character, form an unlikely but endearing duo. Their journey across a ravaged landscape is fraught with danger, but their determination to reignite hope and defeat the blitz is inspiring. You are given the perspectives of Thomas and Cassie as they independently travel and discover more about the blitz (electric dragons) and what exactly is going on in their changed world. The two of them don’t actually meet until around 41% of the way through, and I thought that was really unique with how the two became interconnected and also diverged throughout the book. The side characters are also unique and well-developed. There is a bit of romance in this book, but the main focus is on the plot.

Kirchmeier's writing strikes a perfect balance between action, intrigue, and survival. The tone resonates somewhere between upper middle grade and lower young adult, offering a blend of fantasy and post-apocalyptic elements that captivate readers. The book's unexpected fantasy aspect is a pleasant surprise, enhancing its charm. I really enjoyed the descriptions of the blitz; I don’t think I have ever read a fantasy book revolving around electric dragons before, but they were so unique and terrifying. They worked perfectly by being introduced in the modern world. There are also other mythological creatures introduced throughout the book, and I enjoyed learning more about them, especially as I wasn’t expecting so much of a fantasy element in the book. The plot is fast-paced, and there is strong world-building that I absolutely loved.

Overall, "The Shadow Road" promises high-stakes adventure and unforgettable characters. The story's emphasis on hope and resilience, even in the face of overwhelming odds, makes it a standout in its genre. Kirchmeier has crafted a thrilling tale of survival that is both heart-pounding and heartwarming, leaving readers with a lasting impression of courage and the enduring power of hope. I can’t wait to read more from Kierchneier. This is one of my favorite books that I’ve read in 2024!