Captive

The Shadow Atlas #3

by Jenny Sandiford

Beyond the Mortal Realm, Fate Awaits
As the world descends into chaos, Azalea and Torin's lives depend on keeping their bond and newfound abilities under wraps. But being trapped at Blackbourne Manor with powerful mages and inquisitive friends and family isn’t helping.
Desperate to restore the balance of magic, their only hope lies in the mysterious Echo Dimension and its ancient gods. Or so they think.
When Azalea uncovers the long-lost Shadow Dimension gateway, she must make a choice. Follow Torin and Fabian on their quest for divine aid or take the darker path to strike a deal with the devil herself.
As magic's fate hangs in balance, can they trust these dangerous gods and make it back alive?
Immerse yourself once again in the enthralling urban fantasy world of the Shadow Atlas series, with the third installment, Captive!

Genres: Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Magic, New Adult

485 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 28, 2023

About the author

Jenny grew up in small town New Zealand on a steady diet of fairytales and fantasy books. She lived in Mongolia for nine years with her husband where they spent the unfrozen months of the year living on the edge of the Gobi Desert mining gold. When she isn’t writing, Jenny enjoys hiking, meeting new animals, and loves to curl up in a sunny corner with a cup of tea, a cat, and a book. She lives in Darwin, Australia, with her husband and their two street cats from Mongolia.

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Reviews

[Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished "The Shadow Atlas Series Book 3 – Captive," and I must say it's been an enchanting adventure from start to finish. Jenny Sandiford’s skillful storytelling created a multidimensional world that truly comes alive through the intertwined story of Azalea and Torin.

One of the highlights for me was the exploration of ancient gods, adding a layer of depth and mystique to the narrative. What stood out to me was the well-crafted magical system with consistent rules and structure. It added a layer of authenticity to the fantastical elements, firing up the imagination and making the series truly unique.

Fabian's character reminds me of Billy Butcher from The Boys, and it made me giggle.

The series beautifully captures the essence of growth and maturity, leaving readers invested in the characters' personal journeys.

If you revel in multidimensional worlds, multiple points of view, and a cast of magical creatures, gods, and goddesses, "Captive" is a must-read. Approaching the conclusion of a series is always bittersweet, but I enjoyed the ending. I wholeheartedly recommend the entire series; it's a delightful combination of elements that sets it apart from anything else I've read.

[Timepassreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Spoiler Alert*

Finally, my most awaited book of '23 dropped almost by the end of 2023. And I wasted no time reading it.

'Captive' follows the story after the gate to Echo Dimension is opened. It unviels the adventures that Azalea and Torin went through to close the gate and set the balance on the earth. And how they saved people from Torin's father and The Archamage.

It is a good and lengthy closure to what 'Initiate' had started. But I do have a few questions.
- Is it necessary to make RoRo a bad guy at the end?
Like every character ended on a good note except for her. Even Fabian got to a good side. RoRo is shown as a strong and sweet woman from the start...and suddenly, her character is switched at the end. Even her daughter ignored her. I am not sure if it's necessary to make her dirty.
- What exactly does opening the gate to Echo Dimension did?
Cause I don't see that the archamage or Korbyn doing anything after it's opened. Is it only helpful to take the Tower of London and The High Council? Aren't they capable of doing it without opening it? I doubt they knew about Enlil and his capability of destroying the world.

Apart from these questions, I love every part that involved Azalea and Torin. The character development is just great. I loved that Jade was with Azalea when she went to Shadow Dimension. I just want to see all these characters coming to life in a movie.

I am amazed at my memory of being able to remember everything from previous parts😂😂 Everything kept coming back as I read the first few chapters. This is a short series, but I am a fan. And 'Apprentice' still remains my favorite🖤

[Bethany Arliss · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is always something a bit sad about finishing a series. Sad, yet also satisfying … if the story is done well … and Captive is the perfect ending to the Shadow Atlas series. The author skillfully weaves all the threads of the story, offering a satisfying resolution. Great, imaginative story telling!

If you like multidimensional worlds and muti-POV stories, you’ll love Captive! The worlds created by Jenny Sandiford are rich, thrilling and have just the right amount of weird. All are nicely described, too. Add to this the cast of magical (and some cute) creatures, gods and goddesses, and you’ve got every fantasy lover’s dream.

We get to see the characters from the series grow and mature into themselves. And not only the main characters of Azalea and Torin, but also some of the side characters too, which makes for a great cast.

I could not write this review without mentioning the magical system. It is so well put together with consistent rules and structure. The world created really fires the imagination.

The ending was satisfying and felt just right. I closed the last page with a sense of fulfillment and a nice image of rich lives being lived hereafter.

If you are new to the Shadow Atlas series, I highly recommend you get onto it – starting with Initiate. You are in for a treat!

[Kez Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoroughly epic conclusion to this action packed series.
We get to see the final confrontations against the corrupt Archmage and Torin's father, learn more about the God's and the complex deals they demand, encounter ghosts of the past, and see lots of character growth all round including forgiveness and acceptance.
This is a comforting resolution to the series and while not a traditional happily ever after it offers a peaceful conclusion to the world and the characters we've grown to love.
The magic, mythology, cultures, creatures, and the realms explored all add to this creative fantasy world and make it an epic adventure you don't want to stop exploring.
If you thought the previous books pulled a lot in wait till you explore the shadow dimension, echo dimension, a demon sidekick and uncover the hidden prophecies that have driven the chaos and destiny that is Torin and Azalea's lives.

[Mary Brunet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series and story line have not left my mind since I finished the first book. I have been looking forward to receiving my ARC and was happy to find it in my inbox last week. Everything about this book series us left me wanting more.

[Renee Marski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Azalea and Torin have so much on their plate. They have to convince the gods to close the echo gate and stop Torin's dad from killing people and exposing magic. All while hiding their soul bond and keeping Fabian from killing Torin. This leads to duel missions where they both try to help each other. Deals are made and broken as the power struggle continues. Such a great ending to an awesome series!

[Carolin Petersen · Rating 4 out of 5]

So Good! Great Deity Interpretation!

Captive is an excellent final installment to the trilogy. There’s been a massive break between reading the first two books (and the prequel) and reading this one, so I’ve forgotten a lot of what happened previously, but this book gives just enough context that it reminds the reader of past events without feeling like needless exposition. For example, I’d completely forgotten about Ambrose, but a brief reminder was all I needed for him to come back to me.

I received an ARC copy of this book and was glad that I had the ability to use Read Aloud. It let me thoroughly enjoy the book in a way that regular eBook reading doesn’t do for me. I find reading on a screen difficult—and I like listening along to stories anyway.

This book, like the others, is told in limited third person and follows Azalea and Torin as they work together, but it also follows each of them as they split to complete their own missions apart from one another. The focus doesn’t stray far from either of them, though there are a few scenes in which neither of them are present, just to give a bit more context to the story.

The main characters, Azalea and Torin, are an excellent couple to lead this adventure. What I like most about them is that even though they’ve come together as a couple, they can still stand on their own and be independent. They’re stronger together, but whole nonetheless (which some other books sometimes forget). Issac, Van, Uncle Fabian, and other characters return, though they mostly stay in the background, Kat and Fabian join Torin for a mission, and Azalea is joined in her own mission by Jade, Faraday, and a new companion.

Azalea and Torin’s relationship remains strong. They have a few arguments, usually when one makes a decision that affects the other (without consulting them first), but this book is full of hard choices, and both are quite understanding of one another, as they both know what it’s like to be in that position. They’re quite adept at reconciliation.

Sandiford’s style is enjoyable; it’s simplistic but elegant, with all the energy and intrigue that a Young Adult book needs. There weren’t any complex and interwoven deeper themes that less experienced readers may miss out on, and the syntax was generic to everyday conversation, with little to no uncommon words. One point of reading difficulty may come from the references to different mythology, and the wildly difficult-to-pronounce names of the gods. Since I used the Read Aloud function, I found some typos that weren’t caught by the copyeditor and proofreader; there were about four, which is really good for a first edition.

It never felt like the pacing was off. As the story called for a slower, more emotional moment, it was there, but overall, the time crunch that the characters were under kept it at the required fast pace without being too fast. Tension grips the reader out of nowhere, and there’s no guarantee that everyone will survive to the ending of the series, so be prepared to be on the edge of your seat.

I highly recommend this whole series! It’s unique to any other book I’ve read, though still a combination of things I love! This is sadly the last book in this series, but the author has announced that she is already working on another book, and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for her future work. (Also, even though I read these books for free, I plan to purchase the entire set once I have the spare funds.)

[Laura Ramsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an ending to this series! I am not ready to say goodbye to any of these characters.

Jenny Sandiford put everything into this book. We have secret, forbidden relationships, hilarious demon companions, selfish gods, and so much more.

The development of Azaela and Torin's relationship was beautiful. So satisfying after seeing everything they've endured until now.

This book was so tense that I struggled to put it down! I had to know what was going to happen next! Definitely a great read!

[Mandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are some books that you read and forget almost as soon as you close the cover, and then there are some that stick with you long after you finish them.

Captive is one that will stick with me. Sandiford does an amazing job of creating an intriguing cast of characters. They are three-dimensional. They struggle with right and wrong and being the best versions of themselves. They fight for the greater good when they would rather just fight for themselves.

Then there are all of the creatures: the amazing Faraday, the baby griffons, Sita, the flying tiger beast, the dragons, the lizards. They all carry a piece of my heart with them.

The magic system is wonderfully constructed and unique. The gods and goddesses with their motives, the settings, and the plot... I couldn't get enough.

The only bad thing about this book is that it ended and along with it so did the series, but I know that whatever Sandiford writes next will be just as amazing!

If you love mythology, enemies to lovers, and well-written books, be sure to pick up this series!

[Jennifer Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have absolutely loved Azalea and Torin's journey together, and I'm so sad to say goodbye to them. But what an ending! This series had so many highs and so many lows, but this finish was outstanding! Finally, finally, Azalea and Torin are on the same page. They each are finally giving in to their feelings for each other, and both of them want to defeat his father and the archmage. These two as a united front are a force to be reckoned with. So much happens in this story, and I don't want to give away any spoilers so I'll just say that everything wraps up so nicely for all of our characters that you don't want to miss this! Azalea really comes into her magic and powers, and Torin finally learns to forgive himself for his past mistakes. The ending was so well done and fitting for these two characters! You absolutely need to read this series!

[Rosie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great end to a wonderful series. I've enjoyed the whole series but couldn't put this last book down and now that it's complete, I still want more.
This book continues to follow Azelia and Torin on their journey and explores their relationship further. The characters are well developed and likeable but realistic with their flaws and thoughts. I like the way the ends are all tied up in this novel but it's not all perfect and clichéd. 100% recommend this series!

[Leslie Twitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captive continued where the previous book left off. This is such a great series. Torin and Azalea a re so much more together. Cannot recommend enough!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three of The Shadow Atlas series and the main characters are Azalea Sharp, a student of Shadow Magic and Echo Magic, who is part of the House of Snakes and House of Bees, and Torin Dumont, a powerful Shadow Mage from the House of Ravens, who is also Azalea’s magical mentor. They are also now soul bound, something that is illegal in the human world and has had some interesting effects on their magic. They have tried to stay apart by at least a few feet, so they don’t start glowing, which is something this soul bond put on them by a goddess has caused. They can also feel each other’s every emotion, which can be a bit too much. They are told there should be a way for the soul bond to be broken, but previous actions have led to the gate between their world and the Shadow Dimension, populated by demons, spirits and gods, and magical creatures entering the human realm. Azalea and Torin are working on finding a way to shut the gate, but it needs to be done from both sides and they will need the help of the gods, who normally ask for a high price for their assistance. The world is descending into chaos and the balance of magic needs to be restored. Torin’s father Korbyn Dumont, leader of the House of Ravens based at the Rook, and the Archmage, Esther Norwich, head of the House of Owls based in the Tower of London, have started a battle to overcome the High Council and gain power over all the other Houses.

Those seeking sanctuary have come to Blackbourne Manor, the location of the House of Snakes, owned by Azalea’s uncle Fabian Blackbourne. Fabian wants Torin dead, for killing his brother Samael, Azalea’s father, who died years ago and who she hardly knew. Torin was forced to be an assassin form an early age by his father and was tricked into believing he was getting revenge, now he needs to forgive himself for those previous actions. Azalea has a book her gran RoRO gave her, the Shadow Atlas, which she uses to ask questions and gets answers from, but Torin believes the voice answering her belongs to a demon, which she already knows it does. It wants her to let him out of the book and she is willing to do it as part of her role to get the gate shut. Torin, Fabian and Kat set off on their quest to get divine assistance and she hides her actions in going to see a particular goddess in the Shadow Dimension. She is put through her paces and ends up having to sign her life away, without a chance to speak to Torin or any of her friends for another opinion, as time is running out. She has already gathered souls for this goddess, but those experiences were painful and drained her magic, not something she is happy about. Each group has a trying time, coming across lots of challenges along the way and some surprises as well.

If others finds out they have a soul bond, their very lives will be in danger, but it seems the gods like to play their games and secrets are not something they will keep quiet about! They want their amusement with the mortals and will gladly pit them against each other to get their jollies. Azalea gains some extra powers from the goddess, but with a high price forced from her, whilst Torbin’s group end up facing a god who hates mortals, just as they reach the gate to get home again. The finale is approaching, as Korbyn demands all the other Houses and their people come to the Tower of London and come under his control. He and the Archmage have joined forces, but it is obvious only one of them will be the ultimate evil leader, wanting all the power for themselves! Torin gets betrayed by someone he thought was an old friend and thought long dead, now working for his father, but nothing is really quite what it seems. A young ward, Cassie is taken by Torin’s father, and turns out to be his sister, something he never knew of. He doesn’t want her to be brought up in the toxic environment he was brought up in and needs to save her, as well as get himself and Azalea out of there! Lots of magic, gods and goddesses, a mini demon and even a shadow cat, as well as a dragon egg with some strange uses. Magic has been outed to mortals and the power struggle between its users and the interference of the gods, makes for a fitting finale of their storyline, as ancient prophecies and visions guide them through a set course of action. Great characters and lots of confusion over the soul bond, with a hope for them to find a love connection together in the end, even if it won’t be easy. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Annika · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m increasingly becoming a fan of Jenny Sandiford’s work. My soft spot has always been for fantasy, whether speculative or urban, and the Shadow Atlas series hits the mark for both. What did it for me with Captive was the world building, specifically how the lead characters slowly came to grips with the sinister threats they faced (fear not, no spoilers here) while navigating an increasingly hostile environment. The book was fun and escapist, which is just what the doctor ordered for this cat! Thanks again Ms Sandiford for your on-going creative efforts.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just read the Shadow atlas series plus the House of Ravens prequel. OMG what a talented writer Jenny Sandiford is…..I just couldn’t put them down and loved how the stories magically continued to grow with the characters. I loved the Harry Potter series but really feel that the Shadow Atlas series is on par with or better than Harry Potter. Just saying…..can’t wait for the Netflix series!!
Well done Jenny Saniford on creating something truly amazing I will be getting all my friends and nieces and nephews to read for sure!!!

[Michelle Kaesberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and the whole series! This book did a great job wrapping up the series itself, but I could definitely see where the author could continue on with the story with a new adventure for the characters. I loved the world the author built and how detailed and easy to follow. Perfect mix of fantasy, real world, and romance

[Miza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an epic journey. Even though i didn’t read book 2, i can still grasp the general story line. I enjoy my reading till the end.

I received an e-advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Asher Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great end to a stellar series! I thoroughly enjoyed the world-building and the Magic system. The main characters Azalea and Torin were awesome in the book.
Many thanks for the ARC!

[Courtney Paige · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very wrapped up with a bow

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Captive" stands as the impeccable finale to the Shadow Atlas series, deftly intertwining every narrative strand for a thoroughly gratifying resolution. The author's adept storytelling is on full display, crafting an imaginative and enthralling tale. If you enjoy exploring multidimensional realms and narratives with multiple perspectives, "Captive" is a compelling choice. Jenny Sandiford's creation of diverse and thrilling worlds is not only rich but also endowed with just the right touch of peculiarity, all vividly described for an immersive experience.

As the series unfolds, we witness substantial growth and maturation not only in the central characters, Azalea and Torin, but also in the supporting cast, creating a captivating ensemble. The conclusion not only satisfies but feels perfectly attuned, leaving readers with a profound sense of fulfillment. Turning the last page, one is left with a vibrant image of characters leading rich and fulfilling lives beyond the narrative, making "Captive" an immensely rewarding and resonant read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Charmaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been anxiously awaiting this final installment of The Shadow Atlas all year, and I was not disappointed. This series, including the prequel House of Ravens, was such a fantastic series. My all time fave is The Hollows by Kim Harrison and for the LONGEST time I could not find any other authors whose stories I enjoyed so much in this genre. Thank you Jenny Sandiford! I loved the characters and the immersive world you have created to tell this tale. All four books were easy and fun to read, and kept me wanting more. I am sad the ride is over, but I look forward to reading your next adventure whatever it may be.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sean Bellairs · Rating 5 out of 5]

What really struck me about this book were the beautifully described and imaginative worlds that the characters explore. Within those worlds, the gods, spirits, creatures and citizens seem inspired by many cultures to create a rich, unique pantheon and culture. And within the one story you get to explore multiple richly detailed scenes in different planes of existence. I felt as awestruck as Azalea as she quested forth. I also enjoyed the maturing of the relationships between the characters in this book. Some action scenes felt rather chaotic but then Azalea and Azalea’s family have always been a bit that way. A very enjoyable read and an exciting, satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.

[Molly Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This was such an epic conclusion to this amazing series. The story keeps you attention from the beginning and by the time you are here in this last book you have fallen deeply in love with the world, the characters, the story, the writing, etc. it is a feeling like no other to have a beautifully written las book that can satisfy you but still keep you wanting for some more crumbs of this world. This series i so good and I do think it deserves a lot more attention!

[Matilda Hales · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series, this book was a perfect ending to a fun story, full of betrayal, mystery and a classic battle of good vs evil. There was no point in this story where I wasn't frantically turning the page, looking to see what happens next. This series as a whole is one of the best I have read in a long time and will forever be a favorite to recommend and reread.
Jenny Sandiford's books will probably end up being an insta buy from now on as I love her writing style and the premise of her stories.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great finale to the Shadow Atlas series, it had everything that I was hoping for from the previous two books. The characters had everything that I enjoyed from the other books. I felt like this had a great concept and the story worked well overall. Jenny Sandiford always does a great job in writing this and I can't wait for more from her.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Trina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fitting end to a great series. The world building continues, which is very detailed. Our lead characters accomplish both their independent tasks and ones together. Loved the final wrap up, just as it should be for a final book in a trilogy, I was however disappointed that RoRo turned out to be bad, I liked her. I can see spin off series happening and look forward to reading these.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book three and Azalea and Torin are trying to stay under the radar. Their growth and journey has been and exciting and intriguing one that has had me hooked since book one. Filled with adventure, magic, suspense and drama, the author has done an incredible job bringing it all together and giving us an ending worthy of this series.

[Christina Luberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Follow Azalea and Torin on the journey they must take. Can they handle the missions? Can they unite? Adventure, suspense , magic and so much more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kaila Tomes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this entire series! The world and magic system that Jenny Sandiford created for this series is amazing! It had a wonderful ending. Though I am sad to see what appears to be the end of Azalea and Torin’s story. I am glad they both got a great ending.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

A satisfying conclusion to the series.
Would recommend the series to people who enjoy urban fantasy.