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The Power of Shadows
Princess Estyn was born on the wrong day.
While her solstice-born brothers use their magic to command flora and fauna, Estyn can barely control her own life. She dreams of running away, but her plans to escape during the royal ball are dashed when the warring kingdom attacks—and kidnaps her little brother.
Estyn knows little of the outside world, but she can’t just leave her brother’s fate to politics. So with limited time and an ocean to cross, Estyn must evade capture by her father’s soldiers, form tenuous alliances—including one with a charismatic rebel leader—and break into a heavily fortified castle using little more than quick wit and wild shadows or risk losing her brother forever.
While her solstice-born brothers use their magic to command flora and fauna, Estyn can barely control her own life. She dreams of running away, but her plans to escape during the royal ball are dashed when the warring kingdom attacks—and kidnaps her little brother.
Estyn knows little of the outside world, but she can’t just leave her brother’s fate to politics. So with limited time and an ocean to cross, Estyn must evade capture by her father’s soldiers, form tenuous alliances—including one with a charismatic rebel leader—and break into a heavily fortified castle using little more than quick wit and wild shadows or risk losing her brother forever.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2023
15 people are currently reading
314 people want to read
About the author
Abby Geigerman
1 book13 followersAbby is a fantasy author who writes about badass women with cool powers. She also loves writing the kind of romance that makes you giggle and kick your feet, especially when it has high stakes (such as life or death situations that feel far safer when set in another world).
When she's not writing, she can be found bouldering, drinking tea, or working as a Product Manager for a machine learning team. She grew up in Raleigh, NC (and will rave about it to anyone who will listen) and now resides in Austin, TX where she gets scorched by the Texas sun for nine months of the year. On the bright side (haha) they have tacos and bats and writing is a mainly indoor activity.
When she's not writing, she can be found bouldering, drinking tea, or working as a Product Manager for a machine learning team. She grew up in Raleigh, NC (and will rave about it to anyone who will listen) and now resides in Austin, TX where she gets scorched by the Texas sun for nine months of the year. On the bright side (haha) they have tacos and bats and writing is a mainly indoor activity.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
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January 11, 2025i want to read this book so bad, it sounds so underrated
October 11, 2023
My only critique of The Power of Shadows is that I wish it were longer. Fantasy isn’t usually my favorite genre, but this book is in a league of its own. Estyn is such a compelling protagonist and her inner monologue made me laugh out loud several times. She’s relatable but also kept me guessing. The same could honestly be said for the whole book: it’s SO clever and I was always on the edge of my seat trying to anticipate the next plot twist. I’m in awe of how Geigerman keeps her readers turning pages without ever making it feel rushed. Also, the magic premise was really unique. Reading this book felt like being swept away to an enchanted world filled with intrigue and new revelations. Sometimes I feel that fantasy novels over-explain the magic scheme or try to force it down readers’ throats, but The Power of Shadows avoided those traps completely.
This novel exceeded every expectation I had. Geigerman’s voice is fresh and radiant; the plot is riveting; the characters feel as dynamic as living people. If you’re looking for your next world to get lost in, Power of Shadows is everything you need. It has
This novel exceeded every expectation I had. Geigerman’s voice is fresh and radiant; the plot is riveting; the characters feel as dynamic as living people. If you’re looking for your next world to get lost in, Power of Shadows is everything you need. It has
October 11, 2023
I’m giving this book 3.5/5⭐️ which is definitely not bad. Regarding the level of enjoyment I had while reading it, it was certainly like an 8-9/10. It was really a fun book to read and the plot idea was also good! What I didn’t enjoy mostly was the fact that I felt that some things happened too quickly. I wish we had more time to fall in love with the first love interest before getting to know the other one. And because of how quickly things moved I feel like we didn’t get to see our main character making deep connections with the other characters. That being said, it isn’t a bad book, but it also isn’t a great one. And regarding the vibes of the book, I feel like people who enjoyed A curse so dark and lonely and These hollow vows might enjoy this as well.
October 28, 2023
*ARC*
The Power of Shadows definitely has everything to be another well known, beloved, fantasy YA.
I loved the magic system, the plot that throughout the story remained more important than that typical YA love triangle, and the twists that weren't entirely predictable (with the exception of the epilogue).
With that being said, the protagonist has a mind numbing ability to trust and continue to trust that her later telepathy doesn't completely excuse. One would think that this mind reading power would allow her to see the betrayals at least as soon as the reader spots them, but no it's an endlessly repeating theme. The plot at the beginning also relies heavily on her refusal to see what is right in front of her or question anything. I look forward to seeing her growth as a character throughout the series, shedding the naivete that was hammered into her characterization this book. Of course, one of the messages was to hope and not completely lose trust in the world but some balance would be good.
The world building had two hiccups, in my opinion. At the very beginning, in a spot of info dumping we get foundational "creation" myth as a story told to a charcter who could not believably just not know the myth. Secondly, the overall setting seems a jumble of that typically fantasy almost medieval setting with magic and modern times. There's the typical fantasy setting of royalty, political marriage, etiquette classes wearing trousers and tunics and there's short dresses, black pumps, and I'm pretty sure modern lighting?
Overall, these things don't take too much from the story as Estyn has one priority in the book and it never flops (even though she thinks it does). I feel the romances were more realistic than in other fantasy settings, and the slow pacing really helped to make the characters likeable. It's a fun, easy, YA novel with a couple surprising twists.
The Power of Shadows definitely has everything to be another well known, beloved, fantasy YA.
I loved the magic system, the plot that throughout the story remained more important than that typical YA love triangle, and the twists that weren't entirely predictable (with the exception of the epilogue).
With that being said, the protagonist has a mind numbing ability to trust and continue to trust that her later telepathy doesn't completely excuse. One would think that this mind reading power would allow her to see the betrayals at least as soon as the reader spots them, but no it's an endlessly repeating theme. The plot at the beginning also relies heavily on her refusal to see what is right in front of her or question anything. I look forward to seeing her growth as a character throughout the series, shedding the naivete that was hammered into her characterization this book. Of course, one of the messages was to hope and not completely lose trust in the world but some balance would be good.
The world building had two hiccups, in my opinion. At the very beginning, in a spot of info dumping we get foundational "creation" myth as a story told to a charcter who could not believably just not know the myth. Secondly, the overall setting seems a jumble of that typically fantasy almost medieval setting with magic and modern times. There's the typical fantasy setting of royalty, political marriage, etiquette classes wearing trousers and tunics and there's short dresses, black pumps, and I'm pretty sure modern lighting?
Overall, these things don't take too much from the story as Estyn has one priority in the book and it never flops (even though she thinks it does). I feel the romances were more realistic than in other fantasy settings, and the slow pacing really helped to make the characters likeable. It's a fun, easy, YA novel with a couple surprising twists.
November 13, 2023
this was so good actually
i really needed a good fantasy and this DELIVERED
i loved her magic! and then azden’s was the compliment 😭
did it have the enemies to lovers i was promised? no not really i guess not
BUT the way she loved the nyx and hyperion romances and then got one of her own 😭😭😍🫶
azden 😍🫶
WALCOTT AND CALIX OMG BRO SO CUTE
i NEEEEEED the sequel NOW
i really needed a good fantasy and this DELIVERED
i loved her magic! and then azden’s was the compliment 😭
did it have the enemies to lovers i was promised? no not really i guess not
BUT the way she loved the nyx and hyperion romances and then got one of her own 😭😭😍🫶
azden 😍🫶
WALCOTT AND CALIX OMG BRO SO CUTE
i NEEEEEED the sequel NOW
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2023
I loved loved loved this book!!! Super impressive debut :)
October 23, 2023
From a new author, The Power of Shadows is a strong, well-written novel. I'm typically not one to read fantasy books, but I really enjoyed this! World building is typically not my strong suit, but I didn't find things super-duper complex to understand, so that's a win in my book. I love the magical concepts, and the way the author gave insight into how the magical system worked. If you enjoy fantasy, I think you would LOVE this read!!
October 24, 2023
This book was great, would definitely recommend! I loved getting to know Estyn throughout the book and hope to see Abby write more in the future.
October 12, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed reading the style of fiction that the author approached with this book. There were many twists to the plot with an unexpected ending I think any level of reader would enjoy. The author took the time to develop characters and at times I found myself feeling mixed thoughts towards the main character (which I enjoy) because it means that I’m getting enough background information to judge their decision making. Loved this book so very much and I am very excited to see where the trilogy would go- already rooting for one romance to blossom.
October 20, 2023
This book was so good!! If you’re looking for a fast paced, easy fantasy to read, this is definitely the book for you. I truly enjoyed seeing Estyn’s character progression throughout the book and I can’t wait to see what she does in the next book. The relationships in this book were very fun to read and sometimes seemed to jump off the page 4.25/5 stars
October 7, 2023
The Power of Shadows is a great mix of unique magic, romance, intrigue, familial love, betrayal, and humor. Unlike many books in this genre, I wasn’t able to predict the twists and turns of the story which made it quite a page turner. I finished it in one sitting and can’t wait to see what happens next!
October 14, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I feel like it’s super beginner friendly when you’re first starting out reading fantasy, and it has some amazing plot changes. There was even some changes that I wasn’t expecting at all as a reader. I just wish that it was longer, and had more character development throughout the entirety of the novel. Other than that, it’s an amazing book!
October 24, 2023
The Power of Shadows by Abby Geigerman is an enchanting masterpiece that deserves nothing less than a perfect five-star rating. Set in an alluring kingdom brimming with magic, this book takes readers on an enthralling adventure that will leave them craving for more.
Magic is at the heart of this tale, and Geigerman weaves it seamlessly into the narrative. The intricate and spellbinding system of magic in the book is both fascinating and believable. The elemental manipulations show the author's creativity knows no bounds. The magic in The Power of Shadows serves as a catalyst for both breathtaking displays of power and intimate character moments, making it an integral part of the story.
Speaking of characters, Geigerman has crafted a cast that is as diverse as it is compelling. Each character possesses their own unique strengths, flaws, and motivations, making them relatable and engaging. Whether it's the determined and resourceful protagonist or the enigmatic and morally ambiguous secondary characters, they all leave a lasting impression. Their growth throughout the story is skillfully portrayed, making us cheer for their triumphs and empathize with their struggles.
Abby Geigerman's writing style is nothing short of enchanting. Her prose flows effortlessly, drawing readers into a world where they can easily lose themselves. The pacing is well-balanced, keeping the suspense high and the pages turning. Her ability to evoke emotions is commendable, ranging from heart-pounding excitement to poignant moments of reflection.
In conclusion, The Power of Shadows is a spellbinding journey that transports readers to a captivating world filled with magic, compelling characters, and an irresistible storyline. Abby Geigerman's exceptional storytelling and world-building skills make this book an absolute must-read. If you're a fan of epic fantasy that will leave you breathless, this is the perfect choice for you. Prepare to be enchanted from the very first page to the last.
Magic is at the heart of this tale, and Geigerman weaves it seamlessly into the narrative. The intricate and spellbinding system of magic in the book is both fascinating and believable. The elemental manipulations show the author's creativity knows no bounds. The magic in The Power of Shadows serves as a catalyst for both breathtaking displays of power and intimate character moments, making it an integral part of the story.
Speaking of characters, Geigerman has crafted a cast that is as diverse as it is compelling. Each character possesses their own unique strengths, flaws, and motivations, making them relatable and engaging. Whether it's the determined and resourceful protagonist or the enigmatic and morally ambiguous secondary characters, they all leave a lasting impression. Their growth throughout the story is skillfully portrayed, making us cheer for their triumphs and empathize with their struggles.
Abby Geigerman's writing style is nothing short of enchanting. Her prose flows effortlessly, drawing readers into a world where they can easily lose themselves. The pacing is well-balanced, keeping the suspense high and the pages turning. Her ability to evoke emotions is commendable, ranging from heart-pounding excitement to poignant moments of reflection.
In conclusion, The Power of Shadows is a spellbinding journey that transports readers to a captivating world filled with magic, compelling characters, and an irresistible storyline. Abby Geigerman's exceptional storytelling and world-building skills make this book an absolute must-read. If you're a fan of epic fantasy that will leave you breathless, this is the perfect choice for you. Prepare to be enchanted from the very first page to the last.
January 10, 2024
ARC COPY
Because my rating/review is so different from most, I felt the need to write a review.
I had an arc copy, so some of my initial issues with continuity and typos may have been fixed in the published version. Continuity issues, especially really close ones (such as two lines immediately contradicting themselves on something, such as who is holding something), really get under my skin.
The magic system was neat- but somewhat confusing. The powers part was fine, but there were unanswered and odd details, such as the type of power someone having being tied to being born on one specific day. Is there something in this world that causes people to be born more often on those days? Why are noble/some families more likely to have a child on that specific day? If your child is born premature, but had a due date on one of the magic days, will they still have magic, or vice versa? I did adore the way some of the magic was described, particularly the
The main character was really the hardest part of this book to deal with. Her internal monologue was insufferable; for one chapter I counted the number of times she bit her lip, or thought about a character being just too hot for her not to react too, etc, and it was far, far too high. I do like how she is portrayed as naïve because of her upbringing, but she suffers from needing to lack logic or make good choices to keep the plot going. The FMC is consistently upset she doesn't understand what's happening or that people aren't being honest, but then when she gets chances to ask questions or get explanations, she ends up going for romance dialogue instead.
The book was marketed as enemies to lovers, and it...really wasn't? Both romance options are, at worst, "not sure I can trust you" to lovers. The romances were also just a little infuriating. This is partially personal taste, like I'm not a fan of the 'he's so tall, she's so small' trope, or the forced nickname the FMC hates but grows to love cause he's just such a rascal, etc. Part of it also comes down to pacing and . There are some incredible side characters that I would've loved a bit more time with! Less focus on some of the relationship 'drama', and more on side characters, platonic relationships, and lore, would elevate this book for me.
Ending spoilers.
Because my rating/review is so different from most, I felt the need to write a review.
I had an arc copy, so some of my initial issues with continuity and typos may have been fixed in the published version. Continuity issues, especially really close ones (such as two lines immediately contradicting themselves on something, such as who is holding something), really get under my skin.
The magic system was neat- but somewhat confusing. The powers part was fine, but there were unanswered and odd details, such as the type of power someone having being tied to being born on one specific day. Is there something in this world that causes people to be born more often on those days? Why are noble/some families more likely to have a child on that specific day? If your child is born premature, but had a due date on one of the magic days, will they still have magic, or vice versa? I did adore the way some of the magic was described, particularly the
The main character was really the hardest part of this book to deal with. Her internal monologue was insufferable; for one chapter I counted the number of times she bit her lip, or thought about a character being just too hot for her not to react too, etc, and it was far, far too high. I do like how she is portrayed as naïve because of her upbringing, but she suffers from needing to lack logic or make good choices to keep the plot going. The FMC is consistently upset she doesn't understand what's happening or that people aren't being honest, but then when she gets chances to ask questions or get explanations, she ends up going for romance dialogue instead.
The book was marketed as enemies to lovers, and it...really wasn't? Both romance options are, at worst, "not sure I can trust you" to lovers. The romances were also just a little infuriating. This is partially personal taste, like I'm not a fan of the 'he's so tall, she's so small' trope, or the forced nickname the FMC hates but grows to love cause he's just such a rascal, etc. Part of it also comes down to pacing and . There are some incredible side characters that I would've loved a bit more time with! Less focus on some of the relationship 'drama', and more on side characters, platonic relationships, and lore, would elevate this book for me.
Ending spoilers.
October 24, 2023
I loved this book! What an incredible introduction to the series (and to the author, as her debut novel!) I genuinely couldn’t put this book down; the fantasy world-building was worked into the plot seamlessly.
The standout, though, is the characters. The main character, Estyn, feels genuine. She is strong and witty while still feeling complex emotions. Her relationship with her brother is moving and relatable, and they made me laugh out loud at times. Estyn’s sense of humor made for some interesting conversations! Any time she interacted with an attractive male character, it made me giggle and kick my feet in the air.
Though it has great funny moments, this novel is full of suspense. The reader learns about this world along with Estyn on her journey, and each twist and revelation brings new stakes. This novel was an enthralling introduction to the series, full of surprising twists that developed a comprehensive story. The lighthearted and romantic elements added to the central story about a young woman’s journey to protect her brother.
The standout, though, is the characters. The main character, Estyn, feels genuine. She is strong and witty while still feeling complex emotions. Her relationship with her brother is moving and relatable, and they made me laugh out loud at times. Estyn’s sense of humor made for some interesting conversations! Any time she interacted with an attractive male character, it made me giggle and kick my feet in the air.
Though it has great funny moments, this novel is full of suspense. The reader learns about this world along with Estyn on her journey, and each twist and revelation brings new stakes. This novel was an enthralling introduction to the series, full of surprising twists that developed a comprehensive story. The lighthearted and romantic elements added to the central story about a young woman’s journey to protect her brother.
October 29, 2023
This was my first journey into the fantasy genre, and I now crave more. I am an avid reader and enjoy most of the books I read, though it is rare that I am genuinely surprised by the trajectory of the story. I was absolutely delighted that The Power of Shadows kept me off balance with multiple unexpected plot progressions.
Geigerman brilliantly develops the mystical world and its characters, while masterfully layering inner struggles and relationship challenges. Besides weaving a magnificent story with a relatable protagonist, this book teaches a valuable and beautiful life lesson to take pause before judging others, as what they may present on the surface may only protect their rich depth and vulnerabilities.
I am thrilled to discover this new author and cannot wait to read more of her exceptional creations.
Geigerman brilliantly develops the mystical world and its characters, while masterfully layering inner struggles and relationship challenges. Besides weaving a magnificent story with a relatable protagonist, this book teaches a valuable and beautiful life lesson to take pause before judging others, as what they may present on the surface may only protect their rich depth and vulnerabilities.
I am thrilled to discover this new author and cannot wait to read more of her exceptional creations.
October 12, 2023
Fantasy is one of my absolute favorite genres, and I’m especially weak for celestial allusions. This was a wonderful beginner-friendly fantasy that had a decent amount of world building and a relatable female MC that kept the read super enjoyable. I wouldn’t call this book exceptionally deep, but that isn’t a bad thing at all! It would be a wonderful recommendation for someone looking for something a little bit lighter. The pacing is a bit fast, and while it didn’t particularly bother me, I would’ve loved to see the characters mesh just a little bit better with each other. I wasn’t particularly attached to anyone. All-in-all, I think this was a great read, and I look forward to more from Geigerman!
November 3, 2023
4.25/5: This is a strong debut novel! I haven’t read fantasy in a while and usually find them difficult to get into, but this was fast-paced and kept my attention. The world-building was both interesting and easy to follow; the magic powers and kingdom politics were described well. Also loved the main characters & think their relationships between one another were well-written — everyone felt unique in their characterization and there was a found family aspect which I really enjoyed. As a sucker for romance, I also loved this book’s use of some of the classic tropes. Excited to read this author’s future work!!
January 2, 2024
This book was given to me by my Aunt, I was ready for a new read and fantasy is my favorite. When I started the book, I already had so many questions about the characters that I couldn't put it down till they were answered. This book had so many twists and turns it left you begging to know what's gonna happen next. I really hope there is a book 2 or a series coming with this cause the end left my jaw on the floor! Love this book can't wait to see what the author comes up with next.
October 24, 2023
wonderful start for the author !! excited to see more in the future :)
had a blast reading through the book but the pacing was throwing me off a little. i wish we spent more time developing some things (characters mainly) but besides that, it was lovely.
super easy to get into if you're not familiar / first time with fantasy.
3.5/5
had a blast reading through the book but the pacing was throwing me off a little. i wish we spent more time developing some things (characters mainly) but besides that, it was lovely.
super easy to get into if you're not familiar / first time with fantasy.
3.5/5
January 1, 2024
Mesmerizing and compelling read! Legitimately was hoping our flight would remain in the air so I could finish it before we landed … bc I was hooked! The writing style makes you feel like you are sitting with the characters themselves.. I am hoping for a sequel because I am still not over the ending..
June 5, 2024
I think this is a very strong debut! My concerns are similar to others, the pacing was a bit rushed and underdeveloped, especially in the first act it felt like we are hopping from trope to trope without much bridging or connection.
the bones of this story are very good and the characters have strong motivations and voices, we just need more muscle and tendons to really hold it all together.
the bones of this story are very good and the characters have strong motivations and voices, we just need more muscle and tendons to really hold it all together.
October 10, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed exploring this new fantasy world filled with intriguing characters, romance, suspense, action and old world sensibility but contemporary details. I was drawn in and couldn’t put this book down. I’m excited for the next one!
October 24, 2023
Great adventure. Imaginative and exciting. It got better with every page turn. Twists and turns kept me rivetted from the very beginning. Magic, castles, intrigue, and so much more. Hoping for a sequel !!!
December 12, 2023
Love, love, love this book! Dive into a world of magic, mayhem, and unforgettable characters. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat with unexpected twists from page one. A thrilling ride that’ll have you eagerly turning each page, guessing what happens next.
December 30, 2023
4.5
I really enjoyed this. The magic and the characters are very enjoyable.
My only complaint is that the book did feel very fast pace and I had to reread paragraphs because it felt like I was missing parts of the story.
I really enjoyed this. The magic and the characters are very enjoyable.
My only complaint is that the book did feel very fast pace and I had to reread paragraphs because it felt like I was missing parts of the story.
January 24, 2025
I’m inclined to be more generous to this because it’s a debut novel but ultimately it was absolutely formulaic and simple. The same fantasy story formula without anything really remarkable but you know I stuck with it to the end and that’s got to count for something right?
October 26, 2025
This had a lot of potential. I loved the beginning, but then it just felt rushed. Like the author couldn’t decide if they wanted to go with the Ryker as a MMC or if it was going to be Azdyn. The FMC was had potential to be strong but she fell flat to me.
October 12, 2023
Such an entertaining and easy read. This is the book that got me back into reading. So excited for the next one!!!
November 9, 2023
The premise is a new one to me. It is very interesting and well written. I would recommend this writer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews