I have spent the last four weeks in the world built by Samantha Shannon - the criminal world of the Seven Dials, the dark and creepy prison in Oxford, the magical yet terrifying cities of Paris, Rome and London. I feel bereft to have to wait for Book Six to come out. This is the BEST fantasy series I have read in years. Shannon has created rich complex characters, vile antagonists, heroic leaders with a moral compass, and a chosen family that I would want to be a part of. Love love love love love! Do not miss this entire series!!!

The dystopian sci fi fantasy Bone Season series by Samantha Shannon has been one of my favorite series for a few years now, and I wait for the next installment like a little kid waiting to open presents - thankful to Netgalley for keeping me in this world where clairvoyants “Voyants” are oppressed and held prisoner by the monstrous Rephaim. Paige is a fierce female MC to root for as she fights the power. This is an in depth sci fi supernatural world steeped in Greek mythology inspo and I will re-read the entire series when every last volume is published (I am trying to be patient).
I can’t believe what is happening to Paige and arcturus- Samantha Shannon has me caught in her web of suspense.

I cannot thank Bloomsbury Publishing enough for sending me this wonderful ARC. I’ve been itching to read the next instalment since November 2020 and my god did it not disappoint.

One thing is clear from The Dark Mirror is that The Mask Falling was truly a transitional book in this series. Samantha did a fantastic job subtly moving the plot in a way that made the divide between the first part of the series and the second half less abrupt. It’s something you notice after having picked up this fifth instalment and things start to feel very different and somehow larger right from the beginning. The main question we’re left with by the end of book four is answered almost immediately in the first chapter and whilst it did make me feel glad that we knew immediately, it did not leave me any less stressed by what is revealed in that initial chapter.

We leave Paige at the end of The Mask Falling believing to have been betrayed by the person she trusts the most, realising he was being controlled, discovered the fact that she is in fact not the only living dreamwalker*. Then right after, narrowly avoiding being killed by a bomb which she believes to have killed Arcturus, then truly being betrayed by a fellow Domino agent we know by the name of Cordier. Samantha leaves both readers and Paige herself very little space to breathe as we reach the climax and end of The Mask Falling, making the wait for The Dark Mirror even more excruciating than one would have expected, but also makes it so worth it. *Having discovered that she is not the first dreamwalker the Rephs have found, see Emma Orson in The Mask Falling, she has also had to come to terms with the fact that Cade, the man we previously knew as David, is also a dreamwalker and a very powerful one at that. His questionable allegiance makes him such a difficult character to truly parse out.

This revelation leaves us readers what this means for Paige’s future as well as questioning the idea that she is unique due to her gift. However, what The Dark Mirror does incredibly well is show us how Paige isn’t just special for her ability to dreamwalk, but for who she is and what she has gone through. Whilst I would say that this book was less taxing on her physically in some ways compared to the first four books, she is still put though a lot of emotional turmoil that makes up for it. I won’t hide the fact that it made me cry a handful of times, and all for different reasons. The Paige we see here is a quieter version of herself, but the Paige we all know and love isn’t well and truly gone. She is just finally given the space to start process everything that has happened in the past year as well as properly look forward and plan for the syndicate’s future as well as the rest of the world under Scion in regards to dismantling it. Without giving too much away, we learn about other 3rd parties that we previously weren’t aware of at all, as well as more on Domino as we also get to start exploring the free world along with Paige.

Samantha Shannon has done it again, and I’m absolutely blown away! Picking up 'The Dark Mirror' felt like coming home—straight into the heart of the world Paige Mahoney has been fighting so hard to survive in. The story had me hooked from the start. Paige waking up in the free world with half a year missing from her memory? I was immediately intrigued!

Venice is the perfect backdrop for this chapter of Paige’s journey, full of mystery and danger. The secrets of Operation Ventriloquist had me glued to the page, and the tension as Paige uncovers the truth is perfectly balanced with the thrill of reuniting with old allies. I especially loved the chemistry between Paige and Arcturus—so much respect and unspoken emotion between them! Every scene with the two of them was electric.

Shannon’s world-building continues to amaze me. Every detail feels purposeful, every setting vibrant and alive. But what really stood out in this book was the character work. Paige’s growth is so raw and compelling, and the connections between the characters felt deeper than ever.

This book is everything I love about Shannon’s writing—action-packed, thought-provoking, and deeply emotional. I can’t wait to see where this story goes next! If you love immersive fantasy, do yourself a favor and read this series.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

The copy currently shown for this book is pretty minimal because most of it would be a spoiler, so I’ll avoid spoilers myself. The big things to note: Paige is somehow out of Scion for the first time in over a decade and she is dangerously alone– her closest allies are missing. You’ll probably get the most out of this book if the other volumes are reasonably fresh in your mind, but that was not the case for me and I still enjoyed it.

Before I talk in more detail about my reactions to the book, a disclaimer: I consider my ratings for mid-series books to be probationary– depending on the rest of the series, this number could go up or down.

Ok, now with that out of the way, THIS WAS FANTASTIC. It was such a reminder of how mesmerizing this world is and how invested I am in Paige’s story. I honestly forgot how much I enjoyed the previous books because it’s been so long since I read them and since we had an odd sort of hiatus when the author rewrote the first volume. The book is written in such a way, with plenty of context clues, that we can dive back into the action without too much fuss but amazingly the book isn’t bogged down in the weighty exposition that was my chief complaint about the first volume. We see a number of familiar characters return, which is very satisfying. A lot happens here to advance the plot, and it feels important. This is not just a middle volume where nothing happens.

I’m still confused about what may have been changed from the original edition of Bone Season when the author released her preferred edition. There are plenty of references to the first book in this one that could be hints of revised sections– I’m hoping someone might write a thorough comparison to satisfy my curiosity! Most importantly, if you haven’t read the author’s preferred text, I don’t think it’s necessary.

Hey so this was insane! Like in the best way. I loved every minute of it. I was on a weekend away at a cabin with friends when I read this and they really didn’t see me a lot because this book was all I could think about. Thankfully, they understood and supported me on this emotional rollercoaster of a reading journey.

I find it can be difficult to write a review for a novel this far into a series without giving away spoilers, but I will do my best.

The Mask Falling was a tough act to follow for The Dark Mirror, and it rose to the occasion. The various settings in this book are stunning, easy to visualize, vibrantly painted pictures of the places Paige travels. The characters continue to grow in depth and complexity (along with my love for them). One thing I’ve always said about this series, and continues to be true for The Dark Mirror, is that the people in this book respond to the events that take place like they are real people. This may not sound significant at first, but I didn’t realize how rare that concept is until I began reading this series. The trauma Paige experiences is abundant, and she responds like that is true. Although characters in The Bone Season series have supernatural powers, they are human, and Paige’s human-ness draws me to her so much more deeply than a character who walks away from physical or emotional trauma as if nothing that wild happened would. She’s the perfect combination of strong, imperfect, and lovable.

Although The Dark Mirror is the fifth installment in this series, each book stands out as its own essential chapter of Paige’s story. They do not fall into the trap of being the same plot over and over like many series beyond a trilogy do. They are woven together in a way that makes me say “wow, how did Samantha Shannon even think of that?” in big and small details. The plots of the books and the little details in the friendships and romances that grow between characters pull my heartstrings and have kept me thinking about the story long after finishing the book. I’ve even gone back and re-read some of my favorite chapters because I love it so much.

Samantha Shannon has mentioned that the next two books are full of big reveals and my response to that is “...and this book wasn’t?!” I feel like I learned so much about the characters I adore and saw so many connections made that a re-read will be absolutely necessary in order for me to grasp it all.

I recommend this series to anyone who will listen to me, so that includes family, friends, and library patrons.

I know this book isn’t even out yet, but I can’t wait to read book 6!

If I could give this book 6 stars, I would.

Wow...I wish I could just end the review there. This is was something else. I feel like this series flies under the radar but it is so good! Please more people read this!

5/5

What began in Oxford and the clairvoyant underworld of London to the catacombs racing beneath Paris transforms across the winding streets of Italy in this fifth installment to the Bone Season. With The Dark Mirror, Samantha Shannon presents the fifth chapter of this groundbreaking series and it is assuredly her strongest work by far. This fifth book is this series fully realized, in its themes, characters, and deftly constructed plot finally blossoming with astonishing precision. After the agonizing events that concluded The Mask Falling, this sequel is as much a soul-deep reconciliation between Dreamwalker and revolutionary Paige Mahoney and the warden Arcturus Mesarthim, as it is an expansion in the fight to bring the Republic of Scion to its knees. Paige and her allies take the next step outside Scion to unmask a new threat in Italy that will transform the free world. Teeming with angst and decisive action, The Dark Mirror is everything I could have hoped for interwound in one astounding volume. This flawless installment manages to entwine every strength from its former novels, with the mystery, trauma, and heartbreak coalescing across a pivotal fight in Italy. It is also Samantha Shannon at her most diabolical. I already cried my eyes out to chapters twelve and thirteen, and the journey out of chapter twelve was so intense and genuinely made me feel like I was being hunted for sport. The echoes of certain scenes of books past, and long-awaited developments make this such a treat for fans of the series old and new. The Dark Mirror is a wonderful tribute to the journey this series has taken and is further proof that it is just the best of fantasy right now. The Dark Mirror is certainly a long-awaited sequel but it’s heartrending and masterfully plotted and deserves to be read over and over again.

My full review is now up on my blog!

4.5 stars! WOW what a rollercoaster! I had almost no memory of this series but after some lovely friends helped with some recapping, I was BUCKLED IN. I expected to have to take my time with this because this series is a bit hard for me to grasp at times but we locked in and COULD NOT STOP. I read like 70% in one sitting. PAIGE & ARCTURUS ARE BACK and I love them sm.

It was interesting to finally get to see the world outside of Scion! So many twists and turns but this is a great cast of characters and everyone is so interesting. My favorite was Maria, she is a delight. Paige goes through a lot in this book and her relationship with Arcturus reaches new and exhilarating levels (chapters 23-25 almost took me out, boy they had me cryin). This really feels like a turning point in the series and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the next book plays out! Interested to see how staying in Paige’s POV with people separated in the next book will play out …

I don't know how to write a review for this one. I can't. Where do I even start?

I've waited so long for this. And I love, love, love you Samantha Shannon for giving us 'Martlet' and 'Duet'.

This started out a bit slow. And I felt so disoriented in the beginning which felt like the exact same thing Paige was feeling. So I guess the author did that on purpose? I will also admit I should have reread the first four books before going into this one. But I was too damn EXCITED. Nothing would have stopped me from reading TDM. The moment I had it in my hands I had nothing else on my mind.

I just finished the book so my thoughts are all over the place. But if we're discussing feelings... then TDM has made a mess of mine. I shed some tears, had my heart broken, swoon so much so hard, felt my anxiety spike and just.. fell in love with Arcturus a little more than I already am. And I'm pretty much already in love with him with every fiber of my being.

We all know Paige and her signature recklessness. She has not changed a bit in that regard. But she's learned to be a bit more cautious. And she has gained a streak of ruthlessness as well. She has not lost her fight and she continues to be a resilient character. I truly love seeing her growth. She has gone through so much suffering and pain and loss but she's never let that stop her. She's never without heart and unwavering resolve. I love that. But If I could just sit on her so she can take some much needed rest I would. She is long over due for a much needed vacation.

I'm afraid anything I will say will fall short of how incredible this instalment was. I wish I was as good with words as Arcturus. But all I can honestly think to say is I love this book-this whole series- in every way the word means. I don't want to say goodbye. Again. But I read TDM way too fast. I reached the end before I was ready for it. I tried to savor it. I really did. But there's no other way to read this other than in one sitting ignoring all my chores and the real world and the other hundred responsibilities fighting for the top spot on my to-do list.

TDM surpassed all my expectations and then some. I have a feeling this is going to put me in a severe reading slump.

This was beyond unimaginably good. But please don't take my word for it. Go read this asap!

My favorite quote:
‘I’d have decked anyone else, but it made me feel like I could be smaller with you. Not in worth or importance, but … like I didn’t have to stretch myself so far, to be so much. I didn’t have to be the Pale Dreamer or Black Moth or the Underqueen or Flora Blake. Every time you held me, you gathered all those people into one. With you, I could just be Paige.’

Break your heart into a million pieces and maybe you’ll come close to how wrecked this book had me 💔

This book series has been such a constant love for me for years and years now and I care for these characters so immensely. Shannon continues to have me fall in love with them over and over. Yes, even the ones who stomp on my heart.

Having waiting so long for this book I had high expectation, and the plot definitely delivered. I reread all previous books before diving into this one and I highly recommend readers do this. Otherwise I might have been confused/forgot some of the things that come into play. This world and its lore/characters are vast, so do yourself a service and brush up.

Can’t wait to put a physical copy on my shelf!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

This one was really good! I am a fantasy lover so I was excited when I read the synopsis for this one. I haven’t read the others in the series so it did take me a minute to fully understand what was going on as well as who some of the characters were but I still throughly enjoyed this and will be recommending and finishing this series! This would make for an amazing movie. I could see this series being huge in the book world! I look forward to the release :)

Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for allowing me to read a digital advanced reader's copy (ARC) of Samantha Shannon's "The Dark Mirror (The Bone Season Book 5)," with a publication date of February 25, 2025. First, I have read every book in this series and awaited with bated breath for the release of "The Dark Mirror." I must admit that Paige Mahoney, a clairvoyant protagonist, worked my nerves in "The Mask Falling (The Bone Season Book 4)" with her anger and impulsive actions. Praise the Lord! Paige showed growth and maturity in "The Dark Mirror" and pondered her actions before leaping. Her self-reflection and pensivity were displayed and greatly appreciated. She remains fierce, loyal, and kicks butt.

I love the chemistry between Paige and Arcturus; they have so much respect for each other. This novel has edge-of-your-seat action, ensuring there is never a dull moment. "The Dark Mirror" was a trip down memory lane, and it was wonderful that Ms. Shannon brought back old characters (Nick, Maria, Terebell) and introduced new ones. Jaxson Hall is back and as tricky as ever. "The Dark Mirror" is packed with betrayal, intrigue, heartbreak, and sadness during several battle scenes. The world-building, as always, was superb, and the novel's conclusion was satisfying. Please, Ms. Shannon, don't make us wait four years for Book 6.

I was intrigued when Ms. Shannon started "The Bone Season" dystopian series and announced it would consist of seven books. After I read the first two books, I said there was no way she could continue this series about mollishers, clairvoyants, voyants, and Rephriams. I was wrong! The Dark Mirror" is a knockout, and I look forward to reading Books 6 and 7. Pre-order this book because it is a treat, and you'll get completely lost in it. Please don't make the mistake of letting the size of the novel deter you from reading it!

5/5 stars

This is the best book so far in the series. I got hives from how stressed I was. But excuse me with that duet?!!!! This book was traumatic and absolutely necessary in my life. I can’t wait to reread it 100 more times.

This one didn't hit quite as well with me as the previous entries in this series. I felt like the action slowed down quite a bit and there was much more dialogue and slow moments. Still it's hard to quibble when taken in totality this is a very impressive urban fantasy story.

I loved this book! I was honestly nervous to start it because my expectations were sky-high after falling in love with the rest of the series. Fortunately, I had nothing to worry about – this book is an absolute delight, and I already want to read it again just to savor every detail.
One of the highlights of this installment is the remarkable growth in Paige’s character. She’s still the fierce, loyal, funny, and more-than-a-little unhinged heroine we know and love, but this time we see a new side of her: she’s more level-headed and thoughtful, adding depth to her bravery. Did I still want to scream at her a few times? Absolutely. But I’d expect nothing less from my Underqueen – her chaotic energy is part of what makes her so awesome.
The emotional depth and tonal shifts in this book are astounding, and yet everything feels perfectly cohesive. I loved how the pacing mirrored Paige's journey, with stretches that are tranquil and reflective, others that are intense and frenetic, and still more that keep you on the edge of your seat. Without giving too much away, I'll say that we’re treated to appearances from fan-favorite characters we haven’t seen in a while, which added so much richness to the story.
The quote on the back cover – “Everything is about to change” – couldn’t be more fitting. The rebellion against Scion is reaching a fever pitch, and cracks are finally starting to show in the establishment’s flawless facade. It’s exhilarating, yet daunting, to think that Paige and her allies only have two books left to bring down such a powerful force. If anyone can pull it off, it’s Samantha Shannon, who’s crafted what I truly believe is one of the most perfect series out there.

SAMANTHA SHANNON HAS DONE IT AGAIN. I don't know how she keeps blowing my mind and breaking my heart but she does. This is easily one of my favorites of the series and I am simply BEGGING for what happens next.

I have been waiting so long for this book and it did not disappoint! I love this world and these characters so much and I speedran this book.

I've been reading The Bone Season books since 2013 as a senior in high school and they have only gotten better and better. It feels so much like we grew into adulthood together. I'm always so glad to see Samantha Shannon thriving in the book world and I was so excited to be approved for The Dark Mirror. Samantha Shannon is such a masterful fantasy writer and it's no surprise that The Dark Mirror is an incredible fifth installment in the series. It is so hard to fully articulate how much I loved this book so I will simply say: Read The Bone Season series if you haven't and if you have, do a reread. 100000/10 Will be screaming from the rooftops about this book.

I have started and revised this review over and over again. I am incredibly fortunate to, once again, have access to a Samantha Shannon work earlier than its publication date and for that I am forever grateful.
As I sit in my small London flat, reminiscing about serendipitous moments, I can’t help but think of Paige and Arcturus. Their golden cord binds me to a world I can’t imagine living without.
Reflecting on my move to London for new opportunities—driven by my passion for books, language, and history—I cannot help to recall my long-held love for Italy. This year, I finally took my mom to Naples, and I treasure those experiences, much like I treasure these two settings woven into The Bone Season series.
It’s hard to believe I only discovered this series last year. Since reading the first book, I’ve found it impossible to focus on anything else—I’ve re-read it five times! This series has not only consumed my waking moments but has also introduced me to cherished friends and the author herself. I feel a burning desire to shout to the world how unique their lives will be once they dive into The Bone Season.
But I digress—context is essential for my review of The Dark Mirror, the fifth installment in the series.
The last chapter of The Mask Falling left me devastated, and I braced myself for what lay ahead.
Nothing, however, could prepare me.
I abandoned my theories—like fragile sandcastles, they crumbled under the weight of my emotions. To be emotionally destroyed by Samantha Shannon is akin to getting a tattoo: painful yet profoundly satisfying.
I found myself crying within the first two pages, overwhelmed by two emotions: the joy of returning to this world and the torment of Paige’s dire situation. Her loneliness resonated with my deepest fears, and experiencing this within a fantasy dystopian context was both haunting and beautiful. I wished to leap into the pages and comfort her, but all I could do was read on and hope for the best.
Samantha’s craft continues to amaze me, particularly in the masterful world-building of The Dark Mirror. Each detail is meticulously crafted—never dull or repetitive—shimmering with life and intensity. The blend of romance, action, and politics against a richly detailed backdrop deserves a standing ovation. I felt as if I could witness the action unfold right before my eyes from my little window in London.
I had the privilege of re-reading this arc in Naples, on a boat trip where I gazed at Capri from afar. It was an unforgettable experience, and chapters 12 to 14 left me emotionally reeling. Even the food descriptions were beautifully written, adding to the atmosphere of key scenes (I deeply value well-crafted food descriptions, like a true Portuguese woman!).
Samantha pays homage to language and its origins like no other author. The exploration of friendship and the feeling of found family is extraordinary in this installment. Seeing the characters support and protect Paige made my heart sing, even as she grapples with her burdens. She is still their Underqueen, balancing her need for love and protection with her fierce independence. This tension is wild, frustrating, and utterly irresistible.
Even witnessing the new found respect from the Ranthen to Paige is such a delight.
It was such a pleasure to get to see new sides to well known characters, whilst meeting some new additions (Hi, I have a crush in Ducos !) whilst discovering the world outside Scion and the organisations that aim to fight it. Paige is at the center of a web of challenges, thinking ahead instead of acting recklessly. The stakes are higher than ever, with the looming threats of Scion and the Netherworld poised to shake the very foundations of their reality.
Despite being an expansive work, The Dark Mirror remains fiercely intimate. The pacing allows us to delve deep into the characters, revealing their innermost desires. Aligned with the series’ unique eeriness—prophecies, mythology, and clairvoyance—the atmosphere is hauntingly exceptional.
The evolution of Paige and Arcturus’s relationship is beautifully crafted, reaching new heights that are agonizing and breathtaking. Their conversations and connections are intimate and painfully resonant. While I want to write more about them, I also wish to keep their relationship tucked away in my heart. Samantha treats these two with such reverence that is beyond any description. I am forever grateful they exist in the world and I can say they are my dreamscape.
I know I’ll write new reviews for this book, fearing I may never do it justice. It’s an exceptional feat, a work to be celebrated and shared with the world. Samantha continues to astonish and surprise us at every turn. The Dark Mirror is an anthem to friendship, love, power, and the flaws of our world—always centered on Paige and Arcturus.
Thank you, Samantha Shannon, for keeping my dreams alive and giving me a world filled with Paige and Arcturus. I can’t wait to reunite with them for their next duet.
Lastly, my heartfelt thanks to Bloomsbury and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this arc. I truly cannot thank you enough.