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Wishes #6.5

Shadow Lily

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Book 6.5 in the #1 bestselling Wishes Series


'If you spend too long in a small town, you’ll eventually fade away. And on the eve of my twenty-fifth birthday, I realised that I was practically invisible.'


After spending a lifetime following her domineering sister’s glitzy ways, Lily Tate is finally ready to step out on her own.
Breaking away from Jasmine is difficult, but ditching the ugly reputation she’s gained after years of sketchy behaviour is even harder.
Thankfully, she’s not going it alone.
After turning her back on her old life, Lily gains a brand new support system – namely a reluctant new best friend and a boy who might be important.
With their encouragement, there’s every chance that the real Lily Tate might step forward.

131 pages, ebook

Published July 14, 2016

9 people are currently reading
301 people want to read

About the author

G.J. Walker-Smith

17 books830 followers
Wife, mother, writer, wanderer.

Author of the YA novels, The Wishes Series.
Saving Wishes - iBooks Breakout Book Of The Year (AUS/NZ)

https://www.facebook.com/gjwalkersmith

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5 stars
159 (54%)
4 stars
84 (28%)
3 stars
39 (13%)
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8 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Bookphenomena (Micky) .
2,923 reviews545 followers
July 3, 2016
Some beloved characters are reconciled with some reviled characters of old in this latest novella from the wishes series. What arises is a tale that tracks desperation, deep sorrow, friendship, self belief and sweetness all spliced with the poignancy and wit I've come to admire in GJ Walker-Smith's writing.

Lily is the main character of this story, one of the 'Beautifuls' but now grown up. Charli is one of the key secondary characters in this novella and it was an interesting journey to see her awkwardly stretching her friendship muscles with an old rival.

“I’m not the sharpest tool in the shed, Charli, but I’m not brain dead. I have to believe there’s more out there for me than that."

There was just enough Adam to whet my appetite for the next book but also leave me longing for more (you can't take the Adam out of this fan-girl). Oh, and did I mention that there's also a vet, a male vet, a hot, male vet. I find there is a paucity of vets in books so he was most welcome!

What I truly enjoyed about this book was the prominence of friendships over romance and the underdog rising up. The humour was perfect and the fairy tale in this book nearly did me in, brimming, brimming eyes. This book was a perfect interlude between Shiloh and the coming Stone Roses but it was a lot of pages for a novella so I felt most satisfied.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
Profile Image for Monique.
1,278 reviews57 followers
July 13, 2016
There is nothing that makes me happier than a GJ Walker-Smith book, and Shadow Lily was a sweet story. If you have been following this series like I have, you will know that Lily is the sister of one of the beautiful's from Piper's Cove. And with the title, you may be mistaken that the Shadow part is always being in Jasmin's shadow, but it actually comes from one of Charli's fairy tales, which I adore. I really can't get enough of Charli, Adam and Bridget, so having chapters in Charli's point of view was just pure delight.

Lily was an unexpected character that I now have a soft spot for. I can relate from wanting to shed her younger self and become someone more worthy. And I feel she was trying hard, but needed an extra incentive to make the final break out more special, and she gets that with Noah. Funny how he is perceived one way, but deep down he is just as country and down to earth as Lily is. They are one couple I hope we hear more about. The friendship that is forming with Charli and Lily is also a treasure to read, I think they both need each other as well as their beau's.

I predict I will be having a re read of this book very shortly I loved it so much, but I also believe it is high time I had a full re read of the entire Wishes Series. One of my absolute favourites.
Profile Image for MoodyJess.
430 reviews33 followers
July 4, 2016
5 STARS

What a perfect little novella. Filled with Rich with wonderful characters, a lovely story line and plenty of laughter.

Walker-smith has done it once again. There is truly no one else out there like her. Her wonderfully witty style of writing is a gift. I can honestly say I highlighted several parts of this gem because of how absolutely endearing it was.

Some of my favourite WISHES folk made an appearance and I just love hearing snippets of the their lives. It never gets old and it always makes me smile. I feel like more than one person got a second chance at friendship, and I truly believe this one will stick. Charli and Lily may be very different souls, but I sense a true understanding and trust between the two and a newfound kinship that will last through anything.

I really liked the premise. Childhood friends who'd gone in completely separate life directions, getting their second chance at finding a perfect balance with a fresh friendship. Throw in a yummy Vet with a yummy name, Noah has serious boyfriend material.

Book 6.5 in the wishes series is a winner for me. I'm always keen to read a walker-smith book because I know no matter what, I fall in love with her creative mind every time.
Profile Image for Becky Cox.
433 reviews11 followers
July 6, 2016
Shadow Lily
G.J. Walker-Smith

I have been in love with all things Charli and Adam for years. When I heard GJ was writing a book about Lily I was uncertain how I would feel about it since she and Jasmine were always mean to Charli growing up and I feel protective of Charli.

As always, GJ has the magic words to spin a great tale that swayed my opinion of Lily. Shadow Lily is the perfect name for this novella. Lily has lived in the shadow of mean ole Jasmine her entire life.
Everyone has a story and are not always what they seem.

I enjoyed getting to spend some time with Charli, Adam, Bridget and of course Alex. Alex missed me horribly I am sure. LOL

Another great read. Thanks GJ

Reviewed by Becky for Jo&IsaLoveBooks
http://joandisalovebooks.com/
http://joandisalovebooks.blogspot.co.uk/



Profile Image for Pamela Lilley.
2,200 reviews39 followers
July 2, 2016
I hadn't realised just how much I'd missed Adam and Charli until I started reading this little gem. I just can't get enough of Piper's Cove, even if the main focus is not on The Decaries. Book 6.5 in the Wishes Series has Lily Tate as our 'heroine' and it becomes clear during this wonderful story that she has been somewhat misunderstood. Spending a lifetime living with her mother and sister's ridicule was not easy, and it didn't help with her self esteem. When she finally breaks free from her sister's evil clutches, Lily and Charli become unlikely allies. A wonderful story about friendship, family and relationships (there's a new book boyfriend in town), and of course plenty of insights into the cutest toddler ever, Bridget! Another winner from GJ Walker-Smith, can't wait for the next instalment.
Profile Image for Sophia Holt.
328 reviews7 followers
July 3, 2016
****ARC RECEIVED FOR HONEST REVIEW: SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELLING BOOK BLOG****

This book is VERY special to me!! I was so honoured that I got to choose the Cover, the Hero's name, and part of the title...it was extremely humbling experience, and opened my eyes to how hard it actually is to write a book, and whats involved in the process.

If you have followed this series from book 1, like i have. This is a side story, involving one of the minor characters in the Wishes Series. Lily Tate. She comes into her own in this book, and this novella really brings out what she is all about, and what it was like living in the shadow of her big sister Jasmine.
In the other books, Lily comes off as a bit of an air-head, but in this book, we see her start to shine and come into her own.

It was a quick read, just an insight as to what has been happening with Lily and her life. It features Charli as well, and the friendship they form.

The book can actually be read as a standalone, but to really enjoy the fairy tales, Charli, Bridget and Adam and the rest of the people in Pipers Cove, i suggest you start from the beginning with Saving Wishes and work your way through. You will not regret it...and it will introduce you to the wonder that is GJ Walker-Smith and her out of this world writing talent.
Profile Image for Lina.
999 reviews17 followers
May 2, 2021
Beautiful as always

G J. Walker-Smith has a gift for making me silently cry. This is a short and sweet novella that is told in both Lily Tate and Charlie Décarie's point of views. We see 25 year-old Lily trying to break free from her old reputation. Lily's the living proof that no matter how much you change people love to put you in a box and refuse to see you in a new light.

However, this was not devasting. Frankly, Shadow Lily was light and funny. There was a subtle sense of humor that had me smiling often. The best part of the book was getting one of Charlie's magic tales since that just made this sweet story better.

I got this book before I read Secret North and yes, there were some spoilers but nothing that would ruin my enjoyment of the books. I just could not resist the desire to know about Lily, and I do not have any regrets.

Re-read in May 2020 4 stars

Lily's story should have been longer, or just seeing more from Bridget, Charli, and Adam would have been lovely.
Profile Image for Melinda.
866 reviews10 followers
January 5, 2017
Shadow Lily by GJ Walker-Smith

I adore the Wishes series from Walker-Smith and Shadow Lily is the perfect addition. If you've read the series, you'll recall Lily Tate - one of the Beautifuls of Pipers Cove (and if you haven't, what are you waiting for??) and this is her story.

Lily is tired of being treated like a brainless fool and from being her sisters lackey. She's determined to start up her own business and step out from under her family's thumb. She develops an unlikely friendship with Charli who helps her realize her dreams and her worth.

I didn't expect to have any sympathy for Lily. She wasn't a very nice person growing up and frankly, her happiness was never my concern. This very factor is what I find so appealing about Walker-Smiths writing: she takes the characters you dislike the most and breathes so much life and heart into them that you can't help feel love toward them - in my case Jean-Luc (he's mine) and now Lily. Throw in a lovely country vet who adores Lily, and this book was utter perfection. This truly is a welcome addition to the Wishes series and another one I heartily recommend.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

Profile Image for Emma-jayne.
180 reviews6 followers
January 11, 2017
Loved the tale.

Lilly had always been following her sister jasmine's domineering ways.

This tale allows Lily to shine on her own.

As always an amazing story, showing Lilly isn't as mean as her sister.

Profile Image for Jess.
315 reviews18 followers
July 7, 2016
When this little gem of a book arrived in my inbox earlier this week, I literally dropped everything I was reading and devoured it in one massive gulp. You see GJ Walker-Smith is not only a must-buy author for me, she is a drop-everything-and-read-this-instant author who I repetitively hand over my heart and soul to when I pick up any of her books. She's never led me wrong so far, and Shadow Lily is no exception.

Years of my life were wasted following Jasmine's airhead ways, and I used to dress like a glitzed up hooker because of it.

Shadow Lily is a sweet novella with a whole lot of heart. Back in Piper's Cover, Lily Tate is trying desperately to rise above and reinvent herself, or at the very least distance herself from the girl she was years before. Lily quickly learns that small town's have long memories and as the town divides she has to choose who is better to fight for - that of her own well being or her families? With cameo's from many of Piper's Cove much loved characters - Adam, Bridget, Gabi and Alex - and some not so missed vllians - Jasmine & Lisa - and a fantastic case of new secondary characters like the hunky local vet, Noah Hunt, Shadow Lily is sure to hit all the spots with readers from every walk of life.

Told simultaneously through alternating POVs of both ex-beautifuls Lily Tate and our much loved heroine Charli Decarie, this book serves as a poignant reminder of the importance and often forgotten power of family, friendships and self worth. It's beautiful in it's destruction, and I just wanted to reach through the pages and hug the characters involved. The idea of jumping up and down and volunteering as tribute (to be their friend) also crossed my mind more than once.

There is a perfect moment towards the end where the title just clicks oh-so-perfectly into place and I found myself simultaneously grinning from ear-to-ear whilst crying at the same time. Such is the power of GJ Walker-Smith's words. Such is the power of this story. You will laugh, and you will be moved. Friendships will be reconsidered and the future re-evaluated.

At twenty-five, I was supposed to have it all together. I wasn’t meant to be trying to prove my worth to the world.

Shadow Lily is a novella for anyone who has ever made a mistake or woken up one day only to realise this isn't how they want to live their lives. It's a book about second chances, about trusting yourself and learning who you can trust in return. It's kind of perfect, and I can't wait to dive right back into the pages in the near future.

This review originally appeared at The Never Ending Bookshelf on 7th July 2016 and can be found here: http://wp.me/p3yY1u-Zm
Profile Image for Jess (jessreads1985).
675 reviews51 followers
July 14, 2016
Big thanks to G.J. for an ARC copy for review.

Ever since reading Storm Shells, I always knew that there was more to Lily Tate than meets the eye. And then the awesomeness that is G.J. Walker-Smith gives Lily her own little story for me to absolutely treasure. This story if full of charm, a little magical wisdom, romance, and also about believing in one's self. Definitely another great edition to the Wishes Series!

Lily Tate has always lived in her older sister's shadow. And no thanks to their mother, who lets her know all to often. I couldn't believe some of the things that came out of Mrs. Tate's mouth where her youngest daughter was concerned. I wanted Charli to pull out her old bag of tricks on her.

evil laughter photo: evil laughter tumblr_mbun9pJOOl1rii6qjo1_500.gif

You see Lily has a dream of running her own dog clothing line, and she's fabulous at. Except no one believes that she can do it and that made me extremely sad. But luckily Charli Decarie is there when Lily needs it most and an unlikely friendship is formed. And what a great friendship this was. It's with Charli's her little magical ways and her family that help and support Lily. I was so proud seeing Lily's confidence grow and inner strength shine. Then there was Noah, who happens to be the town vet. Or in this case the perfect guy for Lily. Seriously Noah was wonderful. A patient, supporting, and kind man, who cared for Lily like no other.

I let out a soft laugh. I'm simple too."
He put his hand on my chin, tilting my head. "You're not Lil."
His green eyes locked on mine.
"You're creative and passionate and resilient. A girl with those traits is far from simple."
"You see that in me?" My shaky voice was barely there.
His hands slipped through the buttons of my shirt, resting on my heart. "I can feel it in you," he said in a deliciously low tone. ~ Noah and Lily


You see what I mean. The scenes between them felt so right and just like Charli and Adam you know they're meant to be. Though that's not to say that there weren't bumps in the road for Lily because there was. But things happen for a reason, then the surprises that were in store for Lily in the end made me smile. Because it's Charli's amazing tales and it makes everything that much more special.

"Nothing is missing, Noah," I quietly replied.
"And because of that, Lily Tate is now a hundred percent whole." ~ Charli
Profile Image for Aimie.
Author 16 books148 followers
July 28, 2016
Another fabulous story from GJ Walker-Smith. This story revolves around a side character of The Wishes series, Lily Tate. Her story really resonated with me. I've been in her shoes, in fact I'm in them now. I hope I can did deep and stand strong when I need to. I loved seeing Charli in this book I wasn't expecting it since I knew, from previous books that Charli and Lily weren't exactly besties. I can't wait to hear more from The Wishes series characters, they feel like friends to me now.
Profile Image for Anna.
22 reviews8 followers
July 25, 2016
G.J. Walker-Smith never disappoints! A lovely story!

I never thought Lily would be a character that I would come to care for and I feel proud that she took the initiative to break free from Jasmine. I felt for her and understood where she was coming from - especially with family like Jasmine and her mom, ugh. I was glad that Lily had Noah by her side, but more importantly, Charli - I love the friendship that blossomed between them!

I was happy that a few other characters were included such as Adam and Bridget; Alex, Gabi and Jack; Bente (Ryan was mentioned); and even Crazy Edna. Of course, a story with Charli is one never without a bit of magic - I loved the story that she told Lily :)

I will now patiently wait for 2017 to come so that I can read Stone Roses... but January, please come soon!
Profile Image for Kate.
119 reviews
July 11, 2016
4.5 stars

So happy to be back at Pipers Cove. This book centres around Lily Tait who has been apart of this series right from the beginning.

Originally one of the series mean girls, Lily has matured and begun to gain a little confidence and independence. We now get a little insight into what her life was like growing up, not quite so happy and carefree as the reader first thinks when starting the series. Her love interest Noah is a new character into the series but everyone else we all love from Pipers Cove makes an appearance.

The book goes back and forth from both Lily and Charli's point of view so if you are reluctant to pick up this book because it's not a Charli/Adam book then trust me when I say you won't be disappointed. Plenty of Charli with quite a few appearances from Adam and Bridget. And a little Alex and Gabi too ;)
Profile Image for K.
333 reviews4 followers
September 23, 2016
It never fails. NEVER fails! This series is just the most beautiful thing out there. Shadow Lily is a wonderful addition to the Wishes series.
Lily Tate is trying to break away from the shadows of her bitchy sister and mother, but it's not as easy as she would like it to be. But how can she go wrong when she has help from some old favourites and a kind, handsome young vet?

Profile Image for Amy.
238 reviews
September 16, 2016
I really enjoy the Wishes series, and this book is no exception. It's a light easy read, and it's always nice to learn more and revisit characters that you learned about in other books.
Profile Image for Angelia Maharaj.
7 reviews
September 14, 2020
Lovely addition

This book was a lovely addition to the wishes series which I am addicted to. I read the while set at least once a year. I'm really glad we got to see a new side to Lily and a peek at Charli's life post NY. I do wish it was a bit longer though.
Profile Image for Melissa Travis.
184 reviews2 followers
July 9, 2016
Another amazing story that leaves you wanting more! When I read "the end" I let out a sigh because I know that I now have to wait for the next book in this series.

When I first read that a novella about Lily was being released I wasn't super excited. Well let me tell you, I want more Lily!! I loved seeing her grow as a person. I can't wait to see how things work out in the next book!

If you haven't read the Wishes series, you are seriously missing out on the greatest series. G.J Walker-Smith is a genius and can draw you in like no other!
1 review
June 13, 2020
Love this

I love all the books in this series,the only problem is they end too soon I want more,longer books! I love the magic and imagination,thank you for the wishes.
Profile Image for Simone Mcphail.
247 reviews2 followers
January 23, 2022
Too short!

I need more of Lily and Noah. This story wasn't long enough to tell me all the things. But that sums up this whole series. The characters are so endearing, reading everything about them is never enough. Luckily for me there are more books to read!
1,704 reviews13 followers
July 17, 2016
I could not put this book down. I absolutely loved it and enjoyed catching up with Charli and the rest of Pipers Cove. Lily was a completely different character than I thought she would be. I loved how two unlikely people became friends and how the friendship wasn't rushed. I cannot wait for Stone Roses - I am sure it will be another great book in this series.
Profile Image for Dani.
248 reviews
July 19, 2016
I can't believe I'm so surprised at how much I enjoyed this story. It hit me.
I particularly LOVED that it was told in alternating POVs between Charli and her and that the lovely love story was a secondary treat... it gives it depth and makes me proud of her willingness to better herself... for herself. Gaaaah.... I can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Reem_alghanmi.
159 reviews3 followers
October 21, 2016
Of course I loved this book this series is what got me into books I think so it have a special place in my heart ❤️. I hated lily for so long that it was kind of scary to read a book that I knew would make me love her but I am glad i did . The only bad thing is that it was too short
Profile Image for Ruth.
307 reviews
July 13, 2016
WoW!! Another beautiful read!!! I LOVe these characters!! I'm happy Lily has a beautiful and lovely ending!!! I just want more.... Cannot wait for Stone Roses <3
Profile Image for Vena.
25 reviews
July 15, 2016
Love anything Gj Walker-Smith writes!!! Have been in love with all the characters from the start. Can't wait for the next one.
77 reviews1 follower
August 10, 2016
I have loved all the books in this series, however this book lacked the same intensity and passion I have come to loved. I really wish there was more about Noah and Lilly...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews

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