Lost Shadows

by Julie Elizabeth Powell

Not only had Adam lost his parents in a car crash, but he’d also forgotten who he was. Pamela is haunted by the patient who was murdered by her father. Barbara and Mike have mysterious secrets. Harry seeks solace at the bottom of a glass. And why is Mildred so afraid? While Helen’s mind gathers dust, Lizzie mourns the loss of her, and her husband. Both Penny and Jane are frantic to find their daughters, if in different ways. Rick wonders what to do about his family. And who is William?

Most are strangers, all are haunted by darkness – does this unite them, or is it something they must do that will free them?

Will they find what is lost?

Genres: Fantasy, Psychological Thriller

276 pages, Paperback

First published August 7, 2012

About the author

Hello everyone. If you haven't guessed by now I have a passion for words and have numerous books published in a variety of genres and lengths, in addition to short story anthologies with other authors in the Mind's Eye Series.

Several of my stories are also included within several box sets with Paper Gold Publishing.

Audiobooks are also available at Audible.

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I cannot ignore my dreams, so many of them, with names and places and ideas that spark my imagination and compel me to write; to create stories, whether fantasy or horror, or mystery or psychological thriller or murder or even humour and adventure. So, my garden is sown, flourishing, with all manner of growth, and still the dreams come.


Julie Elizabeth Powell, my soul lingering within my imagination; maybe you’ll join me?

Reviews

[Julie Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not supposed to review and like my own work - but, hey this is such a great story. It's full of characters that have become friends (oops, crazy author talking) all put into an unusual situation.

I wrote it to explore the mind and...

You'll have to read it to find out.

And yes, I know I'll be criticised for this - if not this, then something, but as an Indie author, I must do what I must.

I hope you enjoy it - and if you do, please review and share...and if you don't - yikes!

:)

Lost Shadows is also available in print from http://www.lulu.com/julizpow

[Gregory Lamb · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Experimental Literature" has always been a curiosity for me. I'm amazed and intrigued by how insightful people can be when their point of view is shaped by observation and experience. Mix in a bit of imagination and you have the makings of Julie Elizabeth Powell's novel, which is a treatise of the human mind and the mystery of memory.

Lost Shadows, written from a third person omniscient point of view is heavy on narrative and sparse on dialogue, but for good reason. Powell does an exceptional job of framing each of her characters within the context of the traumatic experiences in their lives that separated them from what society deemed normal.

Powell wrote this story with a setting based on a place called "Longfields," an orphanage for the disturbed as well as a community house where the employees and residents alike have a special brand of baggage that even they are unaware of until the culminating point near the end of the story.

This author knows people and gives each of her characters unique voice. The reader will hunger and plow through the narrative so important to this story because the dialogue is so absolutely worth waiting for. The characters seem normal enough as each of them are introduced, but soon the reader is aware of the dark nature of their past experiences repressed in an elusive memory that is inaccessible to them.

The story may at first seems disjointed, but then when you get sucked in, and you will, the logic and flow of the narrative begins to feel like flashes of thoughts that all humans experience. Adam, the young protagonist is a likable character who you will be rooting for throughout the story. Unfortunately life is not a fairy tale for all the characters in Lost Shadows. The following quote from the story: "There were always reasons for everything, you just needed to look into the mystery of it," sums up what happens to them at the satisfying climax and conclusion.

If you are at all curious about the way ordinary people think and the dark secrets that are close hold and invisible to society, then you'll enjoy Lost Shadows. The quality of the writing and the portrayal of the ordinary turned into the unusual will make you want to read other books by this remarkable author.

[Desert Rose Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story follows the experiences of several different people, all with the climaxes of their struggles happening at the same time, completely unknown to anyone else. Several strangers living their lives, seemingly independent of each other, but in reality, effecting each others futures in ways they couldn't imagine. This rich plot keeps the stories of several up-front and important characters spinning in organized chaos, then pulls it all together, making sense of it all in the end.

It was interesting, taking a deep look into the mind of each character. Comparing their separate and unique ways of viewing life and tragedies was akin to a psychological study. All very unique people, made up of different issues and pasts, yet all with the same kind of darkness haunting them. Getting a first hand look at their thoughts, confusion, doubts, and the things they're each hiding from, made for a deep mind-twisting read.

The writing in this book was incredible. Julie Elizabeth Powell was able to keep so many warped minds organized and flowing, laying them out in a story that keeps you on your toes. Overall, I enjoyed this book. While it deals with real issues, pain and life, it's refreshingly deep and left me with a feeling of completion and relief.

*I was given a complimentary ecopy of this book, from the author, to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Grant Leishman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lost Shadows by Julie Elizabeth Powell is a fascinating glimpse inside our minds and allows this author to fully utilise the incredible imagination she clearly has.
Memories! They are part of what make us human - they are the thread that ties our lives together. So, what happens when your memories disappear? In Lost Shadows, Powell examines a wide variety of characters who have lost their memories, for varying reasons. For the young Adam, it was a car crash that killed his parents. For others, it was a variety of reasons; alcoholism, Alzheimer's, early stage dementia, a stroke. All of these ensemble characters are somehow linked to the main character of Adam and Powell spins a series of arcs, that ultimately must meet somewhere and combine with Adam's story.
I found the writing style very descriptive and easy to read. The characters were well filled out and easy to identify with and empathise with, even those characters with some nasty intent in the story. What I particularly liked about the story, was the various characters being able to ask themselves some of the big questions. Why did I choose the path I chose? and What is a life without memories and people to love and be loved by?
At times, I will confess to becoming a little lost and confused, but that is just more perhaps that I haven't caught up with this author's fervid imagination. She has it in spades. My guess, I'll just have to read more Julie Elizabeth Powell. I really enjoyed this book and at times found myself in awe (and just a little jealous) of the author's command over the words. She is very talented. Highly recommend this and indeed any of Powell's work.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an intriguing story. It starts off as a psychological thriller, almost. We are introduced to various characters, all of whom seem to be suffering a similar problem, a loss of memory brought about by different things. This book explores the mind and the way reality and fantasy are closely connected. The book becomes a fantasy story about half way through. I say becomes because it's almost a transformation, much like the characters experience in their own lives towards the end of the novel. It's a very cleverly drafted work of fiction, many different characters linked by something yet all very different. I wasn't sure whether it was going to be a science fiction novel, or a fantasy story when the mood of the book changed from psychological thriller to something else, where all the characters were in danger. It kept me guessing right to the end. I am already a fan of Julie Elizabeth Powell's work, and this book fits right in with her earlier fantasy novels. She has a talent for creating new worlds within her books and new ways of looking at the world. I really enjoyed the story, and wanted to find out what would happen to all the characters. The ending made me wonder whether there would be a sequel or even a series. It is definitely the kind of book that could become a series.

[Fiona Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet again, this author amazes me with her ability to write about totally different genres and still draw the reader in.

This is a strange one as it starts out as a psychological thriller, and changes to fantasy about halfway through.

The story starts out with Adam, a young boy who loses his parents in a car accident. As a result of the accident he suffers from memory loss.

We are then introduced to more, seemingly random, characters who are all experiencing memory loss in some way.

The story jumps about a lot, which takes some getting used to. We learn a lot about the various characters but they don't seem to be relevant to each other. A common connection isn't there within the first half, it's only later in the story the connections start to become apparent.

A good story will give you something to think about, to ponder; you have to read certain parts a few times to get it right in your head.
This is one of those stories.
The first half is a nice easy read, then you need to start thinking about what you are reading to totally understand.
Even now I'm still not too sure I get it 100%!

The ending suggests that a sequel could well be written. I'd like to see where she takes the characters if this does indeed happen.

I love this author, I'm constantly surprised by her ability to write different genres equally well.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost Shadows (Julie Elizabeth Powell

Psychological Thriller/sci-fi/fantasy

This is the story of a boy named Adam who lost his parents and memory in a car accident. He is sent to an orphanage where he makes some friends. His psychiatrist is trying to recall his memory at any cost. She had a strong need to help him.

There are many other characters introduced in the beginning of the book. They all have issues of there own. At first I was not sure how they were connected to Adams story , and at times I was a bit confused who was who. But as the book progresses we learn more of each person. I do not write spoilers but I have to say by the end of the book it all ties together.

I have never read a book like this before, I am not quite sure what Genre I would place it under, but (it is) definitely unique. The fast pace and the need to know how it would end kept me engrossed.

Sci-fi Fantasy lovers will enjoy this read.

[Joannes Rhino · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now, this is the story that I dig. I always love psychological thriller. The memory loss, the consultation with psychiatrist, the exploration of the mind, the right and wrong...those things are my thing. The fact that I had to work my brain to figure out how the story ends and the fact that I had to read some sentences twice, that is something that I always look for in a reading. Lost Shadows is one of the examples of a "smart" book. Anyone who is able to write stuff like this is absolutely genius!

[Sarah Stuart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't wait to start reading this book, I loved The Puzzling Brain of Martha Tidberry so much. I liked the early chapters; I have either experienced the problem, know someone who has, or seen it explored on television or read about it in a newspaper. It was fascinating to see each character develop as their "take" on memory loss, or some other childhood experience, affected them. Doubts arose with Mildred, for two reasons. She was ashamed of being abused. Maybe abused women do feel shame: the feeling they admit to, if they ever reveal the abuse, is guilt they are so convinced they deserved to be treated badly. The second reason is that Mildred, understandably, is afraid of her husband, yet she makes notes to aid memory he could find, including one to make a doctor's appointment she wants to keep secret. What he does take from her, catching her in a lie for which he will punish her, is the doctor's report. That made a sort of sense. Adam, the first character introduced, gripped me from the start and his story, intermingled with those who try to help him, is brilliant. Not quite a five star, but a fascinating, if rather difficult, book to read: very thought provoking

[Ellie Midwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of Julie Elizabeth Powell for quite a long time now, and every new book of hers that I pick up only makes me fall in love with her writing even more. They’re all incredibly well-written, and it’s a pleasure to read them just because of the beautiful language used. The subject of each book - it’s always something deeply philosophical with elements of mysticism - makes you reflect on certain aspects of life, and the unique manner in which such topics are presented make Ms. Powell’s works even more fascinating.
In this particular story, we meet Adam, a young boy who lost his parents in a tragic accident. Only, he doesn’t seem to remember anything at all, not even his own name, and soon becomes a riddle that a psychologist, who works with police, will do anything to solve.
I really enjoyed the intricate mosaic of seemingly unrelated people, whose fates get interconnected in the most interesting way, thus making the story impossible to put down. And the final few chapters were simply outstanding, resolving the story’s riddle in a most unexpected manner. Another great story from the author whose works I always find fascinating. Five stars.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lost Shadows is the latest novel by Julie Elizabeth Powell and, I think, is the most intriguing I have read. Early in the novel we are introduced to a number of characters - all very different, but all with problems concerning memory. Each character is well developed by the author and interaction between them is interesting, although it is deliberately not clear what connection some have with each other in the early stages of the novel. This first part of the novel explores the way that some of our most painful memories can be deeply buried.

This is an interesting novel, in that it begins more in psychological thriller mode and then develops into fantasy. At first, I have to admit, I found this a little disconcerting. I had been completely drawn into the first part of the story and the change left me slightly disappointed at first. However, it didn’t take long for me to be involved again with the characters, their memories and how they were linked. In this second half of the novel, the importance of memory to the future of humankind is a key feature.

I felt that the ending lends itself to a sequel - I would love to read more about the characters, especially Adam. Sequel or not, Lost Shadows is a novel which I intend to read again.

[Ramona Plant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie yet again expertly manages to have multiple story lines running in parallel and making them connect putting it all together as one cohesive story. At first the perspective of the different characters is a little difficult to follow since she introduces them all rather quickly, but within a short period of time you get used to your characters and their story. The pace is on the quicker side but in this case I find it appropriate making this a thrill ride of a read.

Adam is our hero in this story who is a very likeable boy. He is supported by an incredible well balanced mix of individuals. The villain is rather creepy but makes perfect sense in this story.

The ending was a little too rushed though and I feel like I missed something. I wished the ending was a little bit more elaborated and made clear.

All in all I really enjoyed this book and could hardly put it down once I started. I can recommend this and I will continue reading books from this author.

I have received the book from the author for an honest review.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the storyline a little confusing to begin with as it jumped between characters, but it all began to make sense as the story tied in together. I enjoyed the story of light vs dark. The backgrounds of the characters and their individual enlightenment. The ending was beautiful.
Adam can't remember anything about his life. He has been told his name and that he was in a car accident and his parents died. Dr Pamela tries to help him remember, but is the hypnosis helping him to remember or leading him to his fate? Follow this boys journey to find out.

[Georgiann Hennelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost Shadows is the story of Adam who lost his memory and his parents in a car accident. His Psychiatrist is trying to help him recall his memories. At the orphanage where he was sent to live after the accident he makes some friends, they each have problems of there own. As the book progresses we learn more about them, and how they are connected to Adam. But at the end of the book it all ties together. A fast paced read. I look forward to reading more books by Julie Elizabeth Powell

[Rosie Zayne]

Check out my review here!

[Joey Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this up having enjoyed a previous book by Powell. I loved this book, told from various angles the main premise is a young boy involved in an accident unable to remember anything about his life beforehand. Paired up with a sinister plot, he struggles with the help of other characters to make the journey to solving his visions and puzzles. It was well-written, and engaging. I found it a little hard to get into, but once I did, I loved it! Will be looking for more from this author. Recommended!

[Kat Drennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twelve seemingly unrelated stories are skillfully braided into a mysterious, but somehow highly relatable whole. It was a bit much in the beginning, but excellent prose and skillful storytelling that stuck to a strong underlying theme pulled it off.

[Luzmaria Morneault-welton · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love fantasy books you'll love Lost Shadows. Once again, Julie Elizabeth Powell has done it again, another truly great read. It's a wonderful complex story with great characters. In this book a young boy named Adam has lost his memory as well as his parents, his only family. In his quest to find out what happened and why he can't remember we meet other great thought out characters. Some who have also lost their memories. In the end you find out just how truly amazing Adam is and what he's willing to give up to save another. It's such a great story that you won't want to put it down. I know I couldn't.

[Alanso Quihana]

If I were a writer, I'd want to be Julie Powell. Her books are a jack-hammer shaped like a feather. Lost Shadows is such a gentle tale on the one hand, and on the other a sled ride down a steep hill into oncoming traffic. No brakes. No steering. Just glued to the sled. And she offers you a seat on the sled so nicely, so politely that you accept and smile. You can barely feel the shove when she gives you that gentle push to get you started. Then, of course you pick up speed and wonder what the hell you have gotten yourself into. A great read. Love this author!