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Have you ever seen something you can’t explain? Did it vanish as fast as it appeared?
Perhaps that thing you saw was lurking in the shadows, and you caught a glimpse of it before it went back into hiding.
There’s a good chance, of course, that the thing you saw simply emerged from your imagination.
Or maybe, just maybe, it didn’t…
Sapphire Smyth is no stranger to rejection. When she was only a baby, her father abandoned her after her mother died. Since then, Sapphire has never felt like she belonged anywhere, or with anyone. To make things worse, her foster carers have now turned their back on her - on her eighteenth birthday. After living with them throughout her childhood, Sapphire has to find a new home. Is it any wonder she finds it hard to trust people?
Abandoned by the people she called family, Sapphire is alone and searching for some meaning in her life. Except that meaning has already come looking for her. When she discovers mysterious creatures lurking in the shadows, Sapphire soon realises that her fate is unlike anything she had ever imagined.
"Shadows that come alive, a hidden world, and a mystery that grips you from the first page. R.J. Furness has created a world that is both magical and tangible. Part One of Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five will leave you satisfyingly breathless and in desperate need of a fox, a silver bangle and the next instalment." PJ King - author of 'The Divinity Laws' series.
"Packed with mysterious magic, friendship, and adventure, Sapphire's story will delight those with an imagination that often runs away with them." L.L. McNeil - author of the 'World Of Linaria' series.
"Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five" is a six-part, serialised young adult fantasy story!
+SCROLL UP & GRAB YOUR COPY NOW+
Perhaps that thing you saw was lurking in the shadows, and you caught a glimpse of it before it went back into hiding.
There’s a good chance, of course, that the thing you saw simply emerged from your imagination.
Or maybe, just maybe, it didn’t…
Sapphire Smyth is no stranger to rejection. When she was only a baby, her father abandoned her after her mother died. Since then, Sapphire has never felt like she belonged anywhere, or with anyone. To make things worse, her foster carers have now turned their back on her - on her eighteenth birthday. After living with them throughout her childhood, Sapphire has to find a new home. Is it any wonder she finds it hard to trust people?
Abandoned by the people she called family, Sapphire is alone and searching for some meaning in her life. Except that meaning has already come looking for her. When she discovers mysterious creatures lurking in the shadows, Sapphire soon realises that her fate is unlike anything she had ever imagined.
"Shadows that come alive, a hidden world, and a mystery that grips you from the first page. R.J. Furness has created a world that is both magical and tangible. Part One of Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five will leave you satisfyingly breathless and in desperate need of a fox, a silver bangle and the next instalment." PJ King - author of 'The Divinity Laws' series.
"Packed with mysterious magic, friendship, and adventure, Sapphire's story will delight those with an imagination that often runs away with them." L.L. McNeil - author of the 'World Of Linaria' series.
"Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five" is a six-part, serialised young adult fantasy story!
+SCROLL UP & GRAB YOUR COPY NOW+
104 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 16, 2019
35 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Furness
36 books32 followersR. J. Furness has been passionate about great stories since he was able to read. At an early age, he would frequently create new characters, worlds and creatures, then write crazy tales all about them. However, until now, he has always kept those ideas completely secret. After having a lifelong interest in animals, music and anything spawned from pure imagination, R.J.’s first love are now his wife and children. Over time, he has also developed an overwhelming desire for mugs of tea and good biscuits to dunk. He lives in Southport, England, with his family, a dog and several fish, chickens and quails.
You can find out more about R.J. Furness, and the world of dissent, here…
www.rjfurness.com
or please come and say hello on social media…
Twitter: @rjfurness
Facebook: www.facebook.com/furnesswrites
You can find out more about R.J. Furness, and the world of dissent, here…
www.rjfurness.com
or please come and say hello on social media…
Twitter: @rjfurness
Facebook: www.facebook.com/furnesswrites
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 17, 2019
This review was originally posted on my blog, RockStarlit BookAsylum!
Actual rating: 2.5*
I've got a copy in exchange of an honest review as part of The Write Reads Blog Tour.
First of all, I have to note, that Shadows is part 1 of a 6 parts long serial. I haven't read a serial before, so this was a new experience. And I'm not sure I've become a fan of this format. It has some pros and cons as everything else, but at the end of the day I prefer to have full length novels or if I really crave to read serials, I can always find some great ones on the internet. Or short stories. Or novellas. The thing is, every part has to be really good for me to pick up the next, to keep reading on.
I read Shadows as part of a blog tour, and although it's outside of my preferred genres (YA is not really my cup of tea), I figured it would be a great palate cleanser between SPFBO books as it's pretty short with its 100 or so pages. Besides the blurb sounded interesting. It was indeed a quick read, though I found a number of issues that almost made me quit.
Shadows starts off as a YA urban fantasy novel. Sapphire is having a pretty rough 18th birthday. After receiving a heirloom of her mother, her foster parents kick her out of their home, so she finds herself homeless. Then she gets attacked, and by the end of the day everything she knew about her life is about to change. I try not to spoil this, so I can't reveal much more about the plot, but let's just say things happen pretty fast. We drop into the story as Sapphire tries to figure out where to spend the night - and that leaves me with plenty of questions that aren't answered.
I guess we are supposed to feel sorry for her or at least symphatise with her, but she annoyed me so much that I just couldn't make myself care. She is being offered help by her so-called best friend (based on their dialogue it doesn't feel like they are friends, let alone best buddies), which she refuses (okay, I understand pride, I have a lot myself). Until she really needs help so she goes up to this friends. Then throws a fit because how dare another person be in the house?! Seriously? And she is supposed to be 18? In some countries (mine included) at 18 you are legally an adult - can drink, vote, marry without your parents' consent, etc. It means you are mature enough to have responsibilities, but apparently, age doesn't mean much these days. Then she keeps making stupid decisions (who the hell goes back to see what happened when they finally stop being chased??) and of course some people conveniently pop up at the right place at the right time which is just a bit too hard to believe. Also doesn't make much sense - along with the fact that Sapphire is running around in pumps. I'll let that sink in.
This first part with its prologue and 7 chapters felt like Furness just wanted to rush through the introduction and set things up - somewhat clumsily with a lot more tell than show - for the fun parts in later installments. As I haven't read further, I don't know how much world building will be done - but as we are talking about another world, I'm betting a lot. I also hope that some things will be cleared up regarding Sapphire's real parents, and what exactly happened to them.
As you might have gathered at this point, Shadows wasn't really a book that I could enjoy. It has the potential to be intersting, but it just falls flat at the execution. I did like the fox creature though, that was cool. I'm pretty sure as she discovers her talents and the world she'll learn a lot more about these creatures, the magic and most of all herself. She'll need it.
Actual rating: 2.5*
I've got a copy in exchange of an honest review as part of The Write Reads Blog Tour.
First of all, I have to note, that Shadows is part 1 of a 6 parts long serial. I haven't read a serial before, so this was a new experience. And I'm not sure I've become a fan of this format. It has some pros and cons as everything else, but at the end of the day I prefer to have full length novels or if I really crave to read serials, I can always find some great ones on the internet. Or short stories. Or novellas. The thing is, every part has to be really good for me to pick up the next, to keep reading on.
I read Shadows as part of a blog tour, and although it's outside of my preferred genres (YA is not really my cup of tea), I figured it would be a great palate cleanser between SPFBO books as it's pretty short with its 100 or so pages. Besides the blurb sounded interesting. It was indeed a quick read, though I found a number of issues that almost made me quit.
Shadows starts off as a YA urban fantasy novel. Sapphire is having a pretty rough 18th birthday. After receiving a heirloom of her mother, her foster parents kick her out of their home, so she finds herself homeless. Then she gets attacked, and by the end of the day everything she knew about her life is about to change. I try not to spoil this, so I can't reveal much more about the plot, but let's just say things happen pretty fast. We drop into the story as Sapphire tries to figure out where to spend the night - and that leaves me with plenty of questions that aren't answered.
I guess we are supposed to feel sorry for her or at least symphatise with her, but she annoyed me so much that I just couldn't make myself care. She is being offered help by her so-called best friend (based on their dialogue it doesn't feel like they are friends, let alone best buddies), which she refuses (okay, I understand pride, I have a lot myself). Until she really needs help so she goes up to this friends. Then throws a fit because how dare another person be in the house?! Seriously? And she is supposed to be 18? In some countries (mine included) at 18 you are legally an adult - can drink, vote, marry without your parents' consent, etc. It means you are mature enough to have responsibilities, but apparently, age doesn't mean much these days. Then she keeps making stupid decisions (who the hell goes back to see what happened when they finally stop being chased??) and of course some people conveniently pop up at the right place at the right time which is just a bit too hard to believe. Also doesn't make much sense - along with the fact that Sapphire is running around in pumps. I'll let that sink in.
This first part with its prologue and 7 chapters felt like Furness just wanted to rush through the introduction and set things up - somewhat clumsily with a lot more tell than show - for the fun parts in later installments. As I haven't read further, I don't know how much world building will be done - but as we are talking about another world, I'm betting a lot. I also hope that some things will be cleared up regarding Sapphire's real parents, and what exactly happened to them.
As you might have gathered at this point, Shadows wasn't really a book that I could enjoy. It has the potential to be intersting, but it just falls flat at the execution. I did like the fox creature though, that was cool. I'm pretty sure as she discovers her talents and the world she'll learn a lot more about these creatures, the magic and most of all herself. She'll need it.
April 21, 2020
I have started posting reviews for audiobooks I listen to via Ko-Fi, which is a site similar to Patron in which you can follow and pledge your support for my goals! Visit my page here- https://ko-fi.com/alicemtb44
This was originally gifted to me last year by the author and pitched as a YA series filled with mystery, paranormal and horror/fantasy suspense elements. Even typing that last sentence comes across a little mouthful, however, Shadows transported me into the world of eighteen-year-old Sapphire. She is given a mysterious bracelet from her foster family and then kicked out since she is now an adult and they want nothing to do with her anymore. Her friend tries to help her, but she feels otherwise and experiences a night of spooky and unexpecting happenings in the streets such as encountering a mysterious fox who can carve shapes into the pavement, as well as being chased by a group of teens who want to harm her.
It was such a rollercoaster ride, I really felt for Sapphire since she had so many questions and yet, wasn't finding any of the answers to them. The ending was a little bit of a cliffhanger, but enough to keep me interested in finding out the biggest secrets that have been kept away for years and now, will be revealed. Jayne's narration was clear to understand for most of the listen. There were a few odd spots where the sound quality did crackle a little bit. Overall, this was a nice introduction to what promises to be a big adventure!
This was originally gifted to me last year by the author and pitched as a YA series filled with mystery, paranormal and horror/fantasy suspense elements. Even typing that last sentence comes across a little mouthful, however, Shadows transported me into the world of eighteen-year-old Sapphire. She is given a mysterious bracelet from her foster family and then kicked out since she is now an adult and they want nothing to do with her anymore. Her friend tries to help her, but she feels otherwise and experiences a night of spooky and unexpecting happenings in the streets such as encountering a mysterious fox who can carve shapes into the pavement, as well as being chased by a group of teens who want to harm her.
It was such a rollercoaster ride, I really felt for Sapphire since she had so many questions and yet, wasn't finding any of the answers to them. The ending was a little bit of a cliffhanger, but enough to keep me interested in finding out the biggest secrets that have been kept away for years and now, will be revealed. Jayne's narration was clear to understand for most of the listen. There were a few odd spots where the sound quality did crackle a little bit. Overall, this was a nice introduction to what promises to be a big adventure!
October 12, 2019
Shadows is book 1 of the Sapphire Smyth & the Shadow Five series. This is quite a short book, the first of a six part serial. I've read a few books this year in this format and I enjoy it as it keeps things fast paced and not too bogged down with detail. The downside of this is that it would have been nice to have at least a little more detail. There wasn't really enough time to really get to know the characters, though I expect this will be remedied in the later books. It would have been good to start just a little further back, to understand more about Sapphire's relationship with her foster family. Not knowing them at all, it is hard to feel the shock that she must be feeling at their behaviour. However, the prologue gives an intriguing glimpse into Sapphire's much earlier past and her parents.
Ben clearly knows a lot more about everything than Sapphire does, though he doesn't seem in a hurry to explain much to her. I don't really blame him as she can be kind of a bratty character and I really couldn't empathise much with her. I'm not quite sure about their relationship as it sounds as though they are supposed to be really close but Sapphire definitely has trust issues from the start. Hopefully he will turn out to be a trustworthy friend.
I enjoyed the fantasy and wanted to know more about the shadows and where they come from, so far I can't tell if they are actually good or bad, I'm guessing they can be either. The book didn't leave me desperate to read more, though the titles of the next 2, Mermaids and Dragons, did pique my interest!
Ben clearly knows a lot more about everything than Sapphire does, though he doesn't seem in a hurry to explain much to her. I don't really blame him as she can be kind of a bratty character and I really couldn't empathise much with her. I'm not quite sure about their relationship as it sounds as though they are supposed to be really close but Sapphire definitely has trust issues from the start. Hopefully he will turn out to be a trustworthy friend.
I enjoyed the fantasy and wanted to know more about the shadows and where they come from, so far I can't tell if they are actually good or bad, I'm guessing they can be either. The book didn't leave me desperate to read more, though the titles of the next 2, Mermaids and Dragons, did pique my interest!
November 8, 2022
This is the first book I have ever read that was written in a ‘Serialised format.’ The author explains at the start of the book his reasoning for this, remembering stories he read in a similar format and it definitely made for an intriguing idea.
Sapphire Smyth is a bit of a loner. A kid that doesn’t really fit in anywhere, and has just been told by her foster family that they can’t afford to keep her now that she has come of age. Determined to make it on her own she runs away to the local park only she isn’t alone. When danger approaches her mothers bracelet that she was given for her 18th birthday starts making weird sensations, and before she knows what has happened her attacker is on the ground. Sapphires only friend, Ben might be the person to give her answers, if only she can get him to open up.
Sapphire was an interesting character. Understandably confused, hurt and upset about being abandoned by her foster family, and then all these weird things start happening. I’m pretty sure any one of us would act out & go searching for the answers to questions she doesn’t know how to ask. With it being a serial story, you don’t get to bond with the characters as much as a full story, that being said I definitely felt for her and the situation she suddenly finds herself in.
The writing style was not overly descriptive, but that didn’t stop me from being gripped by the plot. I found the story line quite fresh, with the idea that things live in the shadows that only certain people can see & interact with. I definitely wont be looking at shadows in the same way for a good long while!
Because this was a new format of reading for me I found it slightly harder to delve into the story, especially with how quickly I flew through it. You can read the whole ‘part’ in a matter of hours, but reading more about the style of writing made me realise that these are written to be reminiscent of TV shows, an hour a week etc. After realising this I found myself enjoying the story more, knowing that I would not find out much in this part but that the follow ups would give me the information I desired.
I think after reading this I will definitely be searching out more ‘serialised’ style stories. I like the idea of picking up a few chapters a week etc, and can easily be read around other books. I enjoyed the plot and the characters enough that I will definitely be picking up the next instalment. 3.5/5
Sapphire Smyth is a bit of a loner. A kid that doesn’t really fit in anywhere, and has just been told by her foster family that they can’t afford to keep her now that she has come of age. Determined to make it on her own she runs away to the local park only she isn’t alone. When danger approaches her mothers bracelet that she was given for her 18th birthday starts making weird sensations, and before she knows what has happened her attacker is on the ground. Sapphires only friend, Ben might be the person to give her answers, if only she can get him to open up.
Sapphire was an interesting character. Understandably confused, hurt and upset about being abandoned by her foster family, and then all these weird things start happening. I’m pretty sure any one of us would act out & go searching for the answers to questions she doesn’t know how to ask. With it being a serial story, you don’t get to bond with the characters as much as a full story, that being said I definitely felt for her and the situation she suddenly finds herself in.
The writing style was not overly descriptive, but that didn’t stop me from being gripped by the plot. I found the story line quite fresh, with the idea that things live in the shadows that only certain people can see & interact with. I definitely wont be looking at shadows in the same way for a good long while!
Because this was a new format of reading for me I found it slightly harder to delve into the story, especially with how quickly I flew through it. You can read the whole ‘part’ in a matter of hours, but reading more about the style of writing made me realise that these are written to be reminiscent of TV shows, an hour a week etc. After realising this I found myself enjoying the story more, knowing that I would not find out much in this part but that the follow ups would give me the information I desired.
I think after reading this I will definitely be searching out more ‘serialised’ style stories. I like the idea of picking up a few chapters a week etc, and can easily be read around other books. I enjoyed the plot and the characters enough that I will definitely be picking up the next instalment. 3.5/5
October 17, 2019
Book source ~ Tour. My review is voluntary and honest.
Sapphire Smyth’s 18th birthday may not be the most enjoyable of birthdays, but it sure is memorable. After all, it’s not every day that you turn 18 and get kicked out of the foster home where you thought they cared about you. Abandoned as a child by her father when her mother died and now again by the only family she’s really known. What kind of bullshit is this?
Then something freaky happens. Is she going nuts or is she seeing shadows come to life? And what does her best friend Ben have to do with any of this? She wants answers but Ben isn’t talking. That should piss her off, but Sapphire is a bit of an idiot. And she’s easily distracted from questions needing answers. This is what I consider a major flaw of hers and it is supremely irritating.
Since this is part one of a five part serial I know it won’t come as a surprise that it’s about 100 pages and ends in a cliffhanger. The world building is sparse and the character development lacks, most likely because it is a serial and I think the story gets short-changed in this format. Probably why I don’t read serials. In any case, I think it would read better and be less frustrating (I’m looking at you short-attention-span Sapphire) if it were beefed up a bit. Since the story is very incomplete I may continue on to see what happens and review it as a whole. But I sure hope Sapphire gains some focus. And some answers. Because I just want to smack some sense into her at this point.
Sapphire Smyth’s 18th birthday may not be the most enjoyable of birthdays, but it sure is memorable. After all, it’s not every day that you turn 18 and get kicked out of the foster home where you thought they cared about you. Abandoned as a child by her father when her mother died and now again by the only family she’s really known. What kind of bullshit is this?
Then something freaky happens. Is she going nuts or is she seeing shadows come to life? And what does her best friend Ben have to do with any of this? She wants answers but Ben isn’t talking. That should piss her off, but Sapphire is a bit of an idiot. And she’s easily distracted from questions needing answers. This is what I consider a major flaw of hers and it is supremely irritating.
Since this is part one of a five part serial I know it won’t come as a surprise that it’s about 100 pages and ends in a cliffhanger. The world building is sparse and the character development lacks, most likely because it is a serial and I think the story gets short-changed in this format. Probably why I don’t read serials. In any case, I think it would read better and be less frustrating (I’m looking at you short-attention-span Sapphire) if it were beefed up a bit. Since the story is very incomplete I may continue on to see what happens and review it as a whole. But I sure hope Sapphire gains some focus. And some answers. Because I just want to smack some sense into her at this point.
November 26, 2019
Have you ever seen something you can’t explain?
Did it vanish as fast as it appeared?
Perhaps that thing you saw was lurking in the shadows,
and you caught a glimpse of it before it went back into hiding.
I have received this book for free from The Write Reads and R.J. Furness in exchange for an honest review.
This review was originally meant for the Ultimate Blog Tour hosted by TheWriteReads last month, but due to personal circumstances I had to sadly delay this review. But here I am today to share my opinion anyway!
The Sapphire Smyth series is a serialized story, meaning each part is just a few chapters of the whole story. A bit like comic books, where you just get one arc per issue. I had heard of the concept, but never actually read one of these. It was a very interesting experience, I can say! The story moves a little faster non-serialised novels and I feel like a little worldbuilding and context is left out to fit as much story in the little amount of pages. I will see how that develops when I'll read the sequel, Mermaids.
As this was just a short part of the story, I can just tell about my first impression of the characters and plot.The cast is pretty small and I actually like that. It doesn't overcomplicate the small sections of the story you read. The main character is Sapphire Smyth, the namesake of this series. She isn't per se likable, but I like her. She is a strong headed girl whom the world has headbutted a little too often. She is not quick to trust anyone but herself.
The arc of this first book is a big tease really. You get a taste of where this is all headed, but it doesn't tell you much details. I finished the last page while I was on the train and literally said 'NO.' out loud as it was over already. I suspect this whole series will be full of cliffhangers like this, I love it.
Furness' writing really suits this style of story telling. It's quick and entrancing, which makes you want to keep reading. At the time I was reading this, I didn't have the sequels yet, but if I did, I would have kept reading as soon as I finished. I look forward to reading the sequels soon, after I finish my school reading!
This story is very interesting and, atleast the first part, is very bitesized. You can just read it in it's entirety when you have a little time left to spare, like during a break or in commute.On my e-reader, it had about 67 pages and I got through it all in less than an hour.
So, if you are looking for something quick and really fun, or to boost your Goodreads goal in these last weeks of 2019, I'd recommend you to check out the Sapphire Smyth & the Shadow Five books. I for sure loved reading this and look forward to read the rest!
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://servillasspeaks.wordpress.com
October 16, 2019
Trigger Warning: Violence. The main characters parents die in a mysterious way. Also, the main character is beaten up.
Even though I am an avid and voracious reader, there are times when I do not feel like diving in to a large book. For me, that is where short stories and novellas come in. They allow me to enjoy a story in a short amount of time.
Such as it is with Shadows, the first book in the Sapphire Smyth and The Shadow Five series. Written with the half hour/hour TV series in mind, in comes in at 104 pages. Even a very slow reader can easily tackle it in an afternoon.
This first book is very much like the first few episodes of a new TV series. In it we are introduced to the main characters, given a little bit of drama and questions, and are left wondering what will happen next. All key components of any good series that hopes to draw viewers in.
As far as the characters themselves, it’s still too early to tell who is a “good” guy and who is a “bad” guy. Even with the main character Sapphire, it’s too early to know if one wants to root for her or not. She does seem to be an interesting character though, as does her good friend Ben. It’s obvious he knows more than he’s telling but whether that is a good or bad thing is yet to be seen.
For an introduction to a new series Shadows shows a lot of promise. I enjoyed it and encourage my readers to seek it out.
March 13, 2019
You can find this review and all of my others over at www.readbookrepeat.wordpress.com
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, this has not impacted my rating or review at all.
DUE FOR RELEASE ON THE 16TH OF MARCH 2019.
Sapphire Smyth has just turned 18, today is her birthday. It is not a happy day for her though, as her foster parents gave her her birthday gift, a bracelet that once belonged to her birth mother, they also drop the bombshell that she can no longer stay with them, as they can't afford it. Sapphire finds herself in Greyflower Gardens, she'll be safe here, there's a place she can spend the night that should keep her relatively dry. But things are not as they seem, and Sapphire is in more danger than she realises. After witnessing the shadows doing strange things, like turning into a fox, and after being assaulted by an unknown assailant which caused the shadows nearby to respond to her desperation, Sapphire realises there's something else happening and she needs answers. Will she be able to handle the truth of the situation? Follow Sapphire on a journey of growth and discovery as she learns about a world that she had no idea existed.
Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five is a serialised young adult fantasy series, there will be six instalments. This first instalment is roughly 70 pages along, so is perfect for a short read filled with adventure. I haven't actually read a serialised publication before, but I feel like it is an absolutely fantastic idea! In the foreword of this story, Furness explains his choice in serialising this publication, and I can completely see where he is coming from. He goes on to explain that he wanted to bring back the excitement that surrounds, for example, the hottest new TV show out. How exciting is it to begin discussions with friends starting with "Have you seen this weeks episode yet??" it opens up a wonderful dialogue. Furness wished to do this with this story, it has been done before and he thoroughly enjoyed it. And I'm beginning to realise that I do as well.
This was a wonderfully strong beginning for what is promising to be a story full of growth, suspense, adventure and discovery. The writing flows beautifully really immersing the reader into the world of Sapphire Smyth. I found that the way the 'magic' of the story came about, incredibly believable. Sapphire has no idea what happened to her birth parents, yet we are given a glimpse into that event at the very beginning of the story, so we know that there is something so much bigger happening here.
Sapphire is a very relatable character, she's just turned 18 and had her entire world turned upside down. Essentially finding out that the people she has known as her parents for her entire life, don't actually love her. While this would be undoubtedly devastating, she doesn't spend a lot of time sulking about it or crying over false truths. She ejects herself from the situation, yes, putting herself into a more dangerous situation, but she still decides that if this is how it's going to be, it's time for me to move on. At 18, I would wallow in my sadness for endless amounts of time! So I like that Sapphire does not. I like that she is strong enough to take the punches, work herself out and deal with it all when she has the time. I am still wondering why she didn't just go to her best friend, Ben's, house first though. But, I guess in that situation, who wouldn't want to be alone to try and deal with their thoughts.
Ben's character was instantly likeable so I'm glad that he seems to be playing a bigger part in this than first thought. I don't know how I feel about Grace yet, the jury is still out, so we'll see.
The way that Sapphire discovers her new ability is done in a believable way which I think adds a lot to a story. Yes we want fantasy, but when you throw characters into completely outrageous situations and they just go "oh, okay, so this a thing." it kinda takes away from the story a bit. We want fantastical, but we want it to be somewhat believable as well. Furness does this with the discovery of the shadow world. I feel like I would have reacted exactly the same way that Sapphire did when Sid the shadow fox appeared. It was a great introduction as who is going to be afraid of something if it's so adorable, amIright?
All in all, this was an incredibly strong start to a promising new young adult fantasy serial. I cannot WAIT to see what happens next and I'll definitely be hanging out for each release date. Thank you again R.J. Furness for this amazing opportunity, have you finished it yet? :D
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, this has not impacted my rating or review at all.
DUE FOR RELEASE ON THE 16TH OF MARCH 2019.
Sapphire Smyth has just turned 18, today is her birthday. It is not a happy day for her though, as her foster parents gave her her birthday gift, a bracelet that once belonged to her birth mother, they also drop the bombshell that she can no longer stay with them, as they can't afford it. Sapphire finds herself in Greyflower Gardens, she'll be safe here, there's a place she can spend the night that should keep her relatively dry. But things are not as they seem, and Sapphire is in more danger than she realises. After witnessing the shadows doing strange things, like turning into a fox, and after being assaulted by an unknown assailant which caused the shadows nearby to respond to her desperation, Sapphire realises there's something else happening and she needs answers. Will she be able to handle the truth of the situation? Follow Sapphire on a journey of growth and discovery as she learns about a world that she had no idea existed.
Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five is a serialised young adult fantasy series, there will be six instalments. This first instalment is roughly 70 pages along, so is perfect for a short read filled with adventure. I haven't actually read a serialised publication before, but I feel like it is an absolutely fantastic idea! In the foreword of this story, Furness explains his choice in serialising this publication, and I can completely see where he is coming from. He goes on to explain that he wanted to bring back the excitement that surrounds, for example, the hottest new TV show out. How exciting is it to begin discussions with friends starting with "Have you seen this weeks episode yet??" it opens up a wonderful dialogue. Furness wished to do this with this story, it has been done before and he thoroughly enjoyed it. And I'm beginning to realise that I do as well.
This was a wonderfully strong beginning for what is promising to be a story full of growth, suspense, adventure and discovery. The writing flows beautifully really immersing the reader into the world of Sapphire Smyth. I found that the way the 'magic' of the story came about, incredibly believable. Sapphire has no idea what happened to her birth parents, yet we are given a glimpse into that event at the very beginning of the story, so we know that there is something so much bigger happening here.
Sapphire is a very relatable character, she's just turned 18 and had her entire world turned upside down. Essentially finding out that the people she has known as her parents for her entire life, don't actually love her. While this would be undoubtedly devastating, she doesn't spend a lot of time sulking about it or crying over false truths. She ejects herself from the situation, yes, putting herself into a more dangerous situation, but she still decides that if this is how it's going to be, it's time for me to move on. At 18, I would wallow in my sadness for endless amounts of time! So I like that Sapphire does not. I like that she is strong enough to take the punches, work herself out and deal with it all when she has the time. I am still wondering why she didn't just go to her best friend, Ben's, house first though. But, I guess in that situation, who wouldn't want to be alone to try and deal with their thoughts.
Ben's character was instantly likeable so I'm glad that he seems to be playing a bigger part in this than first thought. I don't know how I feel about Grace yet, the jury is still out, so we'll see.
The way that Sapphire discovers her new ability is done in a believable way which I think adds a lot to a story. Yes we want fantasy, but when you throw characters into completely outrageous situations and they just go "oh, okay, so this a thing." it kinda takes away from the story a bit. We want fantastical, but we want it to be somewhat believable as well. Furness does this with the discovery of the shadow world. I feel like I would have reacted exactly the same way that Sapphire did when Sid the shadow fox appeared. It was a great introduction as who is going to be afraid of something if it's so adorable, amIright?
All in all, this was an incredibly strong start to a promising new young adult fantasy serial. I cannot WAIT to see what happens next and I'll definitely be hanging out for each release date. Thank you again R.J. Furness for this amazing opportunity, have you finished it yet? :D
April 1, 2019
See the original review and more at The Vagaries of Us Book Blog
Sapphire Smyth and the Shadow Five is part one in the Shadow series by author R.J. Furness. This young adult fantasy follows Sapphire who, on her eighteenth birthday, is asked to leave her foster home after being given a bracelet- something that had been previously owned by her birth mother. A series of mishaps on her birthday reveal curious mysteries lying just beyond the human eye, as well as a world only dreamt of in fantastical stories.
This was my first-time diving into a serialized series, and I have to say that I quite enjoyed it. The experience reminded me of watching an episode of my favorite, engaging shows on Hulu- except the episode played out in my imaginary internal screen. I already can’t wait to “tune in” to the next installment. As for the story itself-
Despite the short length (once again, this is a serialized series), the plot was incredibly engaging. I have always been a fan of whimsical, creative, and imaginative tales, and this story had it all! The beginning was dark and ominous- setting the stage perfectly for a mystery that immediately pulls you in. The somber tone of the story shifts and turns and reveals a much larger plot and, maybe, just a smidgen of a brighter, if not more involved, future. While I am still learning about Sapphire’s character, what I did find is that she has a lot of healing to do in regard to her upbringing. Growing up in a foster home and living with the knowledge that a parent of yours did not want you must have left scars, followed by being ejected from her childhood home…well, we’ll see Sapphire’s internal journey towards acceptance and peace (hopefully! I’m an eternal optimist). I can understand her trust issues with those closest to her- such as her best friend, Ben.
Ben was also an intriguing character in the short amount of time we got to know him- I can’t wait to learn more about him! He’s a dark and fascinating yo-yo carrying mystery! As for his sister Grace- I’ll have to reserve judgment until further novels. Finally, the mystical beings introduced in the story were fascinating and unique! I have to say, after finishing this story I immediately began looking around at the shadows, wondering if they really could move. Was I really seeing the shadows moving at the corner of my eye? Or was it just my imagination? (I love it when authors make you wonder!).
The story ended perfectly! I can’t wait to see where Sapphire’s journey takes her.
If you enjoy short, engaging, imaginative, action-filled, young adult fantasy stories, then you MUST check out this series by R.J. Furness! Just wait- I can see this one getting its own movie- if not its own T.V. series!!
Five Stars!
Sapphire Smyth and the Shadow Five is part one in the Shadow series by author R.J. Furness. This young adult fantasy follows Sapphire who, on her eighteenth birthday, is asked to leave her foster home after being given a bracelet- something that had been previously owned by her birth mother. A series of mishaps on her birthday reveal curious mysteries lying just beyond the human eye, as well as a world only dreamt of in fantastical stories.
This was my first-time diving into a serialized series, and I have to say that I quite enjoyed it. The experience reminded me of watching an episode of my favorite, engaging shows on Hulu- except the episode played out in my imaginary internal screen. I already can’t wait to “tune in” to the next installment. As for the story itself-
Despite the short length (once again, this is a serialized series), the plot was incredibly engaging. I have always been a fan of whimsical, creative, and imaginative tales, and this story had it all! The beginning was dark and ominous- setting the stage perfectly for a mystery that immediately pulls you in. The somber tone of the story shifts and turns and reveals a much larger plot and, maybe, just a smidgen of a brighter, if not more involved, future. While I am still learning about Sapphire’s character, what I did find is that she has a lot of healing to do in regard to her upbringing. Growing up in a foster home and living with the knowledge that a parent of yours did not want you must have left scars, followed by being ejected from her childhood home…well, we’ll see Sapphire’s internal journey towards acceptance and peace (hopefully! I’m an eternal optimist). I can understand her trust issues with those closest to her- such as her best friend, Ben.
Ben was also an intriguing character in the short amount of time we got to know him- I can’t wait to learn more about him! He’s a dark and fascinating yo-yo carrying mystery! As for his sister Grace- I’ll have to reserve judgment until further novels. Finally, the mystical beings introduced in the story were fascinating and unique! I have to say, after finishing this story I immediately began looking around at the shadows, wondering if they really could move. Was I really seeing the shadows moving at the corner of my eye? Or was it just my imagination? (I love it when authors make you wonder!).
The story ended perfectly! I can’t wait to see where Sapphire’s journey takes her.
If you enjoy short, engaging, imaginative, action-filled, young adult fantasy stories, then you MUST check out this series by R.J. Furness! Just wait- I can see this one getting its own movie- if not its own T.V. series!!
Five Stars!
November 5, 2019
Shadows: Sapphire Smyth And The Shadow Five is the first installment in the series by R.J. Furness. I am going to give you my thoughts, and a brief rundown of the book, as shown on Goodreads. You can determine for yourself if you will read it or not...
Goodreads Synopsis:
Have you ever seen something you can’t explain? Did it vanish as fast as it appeared?
Perhaps that thing you saw was lurking in the shadows, and you caught a glimpse of it before it went back into hiding.
There’s a good chance, of course, that the thing you saw simply emerged from your imagination.
Or maybe, just maybe, it didn’t…
Sapphire Smyth is no stranger to rejection. When she was only a baby, her father abandoned her after her mother died. Since then, Sapphire has never felt like she belonged anywhere, or with anyone. To make things worse, her foster carers have now turned their back on her - on her eighteenth birthday. After living with them throughout her childhood, Sapphire has to find a new home. Is it any wonder she finds it hard to trust people?
Abandoned by the people she called family, Sapphire is alone and searching for some meaning in her life. Except that meaning has already come looking for her. When she discovers mysterious creatures lurking in the shadows, Sapphire soon realizes that her fate is unlike anything she had ever imagined.
My Review of Shadows: Sapphire Smyth and The Shadow Five
Star rating: 3/5
To be honest, I am not entirely sure how I feel about this book. There was a lot of assumed knowledge of the background, and quite a few unanswered questions. Are these questions going to be answered in the upcoming books? No one knows! Sapphire Smyth loses her mother at a very young age and then is abandoned by her father. She has one friend, Ben, but she is about to learn there are things that he knows about her that she has no clue even exist.
On her 18th birthday, she is given a bracelet that belonged to her mother, and when she puts it on, strange things begin to happen. Shadow figures seem to be lurking in the shadows, and there is no explanation for it at all. And then there is the fox...
This is not a long book, so it will not take you more than a couple of hours to read through. I would suggest if you read it, have the other books on standby to dive into. Perhaps we will get some answers that were left dangling in book one!
Goodreads Synopsis:
Have you ever seen something you can’t explain? Did it vanish as fast as it appeared?
Perhaps that thing you saw was lurking in the shadows, and you caught a glimpse of it before it went back into hiding.
There’s a good chance, of course, that the thing you saw simply emerged from your imagination.
Or maybe, just maybe, it didn’t…
Sapphire Smyth is no stranger to rejection. When she was only a baby, her father abandoned her after her mother died. Since then, Sapphire has never felt like she belonged anywhere, or with anyone. To make things worse, her foster carers have now turned their back on her - on her eighteenth birthday. After living with them throughout her childhood, Sapphire has to find a new home. Is it any wonder she finds it hard to trust people?
Abandoned by the people she called family, Sapphire is alone and searching for some meaning in her life. Except that meaning has already come looking for her. When she discovers mysterious creatures lurking in the shadows, Sapphire soon realizes that her fate is unlike anything she had ever imagined.
My Review of Shadows: Sapphire Smyth and The Shadow Five
Star rating: 3/5
To be honest, I am not entirely sure how I feel about this book. There was a lot of assumed knowledge of the background, and quite a few unanswered questions. Are these questions going to be answered in the upcoming books? No one knows! Sapphire Smyth loses her mother at a very young age and then is abandoned by her father. She has one friend, Ben, but she is about to learn there are things that he knows about her that she has no clue even exist.
On her 18th birthday, she is given a bracelet that belonged to her mother, and when she puts it on, strange things begin to happen. Shadow figures seem to be lurking in the shadows, and there is no explanation for it at all. And then there is the fox...
This is not a long book, so it will not take you more than a couple of hours to read through. I would suggest if you read it, have the other books on standby to dive into. Perhaps we will get some answers that were left dangling in book one!
October 15, 2019
Shadows is a great intro into the series and the pace was kept humming along throughout the story – a lot happens over the course of the story, which covers the span of one night. It’s a big shorter than I had expected so it’s not a very detailed look into this world, but I guess that’s part of the whole serialised format experience.
The main character, Sapphire Smyth, has just turned 18 and has been kicked out of her home. Left to fend for herself, she soon comes to realise that there’s more to her world than she has ever known.
Sapphire is a broken character – she has major trust issues (who can blame her) and she’s trying to fend for herself while searching for answers. I definitely have the feeling that most of this story will be us following Sapphire’s growth as a character and finding her way in this new world that she’s discovered.
Even though the story is a short one and there’s a lot left to be discussed, the plot was engaging and the action fast-moving. I was never bored for a moment while reading this and my only complaint is that I didn’t have the second instalment ready to go when I finished this one.
While I love the short, episode-like format of this story, it does mean that the first part only offered a glimpse into Sapphire and her world. It was a bit too short to really get to know any of the characters really well, but it was a great introduction and definitely made me curious to continue reading the story. I’m not sure if I’m a fan of the serialised format yet (I’m not really fond of cliffhangers or having to wait for the next instalment), so we’ll see if the next part can keep me engaged until the end (this is a planned 6-part story).
* Thank you to The Write Reads book tours for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review
You can read a full, spoiler-free review on my blog: https://www.bookfrolic.com/book-blog-...
The main character, Sapphire Smyth, has just turned 18 and has been kicked out of her home. Left to fend for herself, she soon comes to realise that there’s more to her world than she has ever known.
Sapphire is a broken character – she has major trust issues (who can blame her) and she’s trying to fend for herself while searching for answers. I definitely have the feeling that most of this story will be us following Sapphire’s growth as a character and finding her way in this new world that she’s discovered.
Even though the story is a short one and there’s a lot left to be discussed, the plot was engaging and the action fast-moving. I was never bored for a moment while reading this and my only complaint is that I didn’t have the second instalment ready to go when I finished this one.
While I love the short, episode-like format of this story, it does mean that the first part only offered a glimpse into Sapphire and her world. It was a bit too short to really get to know any of the characters really well, but it was a great introduction and definitely made me curious to continue reading the story. I’m not sure if I’m a fan of the serialised format yet (I’m not really fond of cliffhangers or having to wait for the next instalment), so we’ll see if the next part can keep me engaged until the end (this is a planned 6-part story).
* Thank you to The Write Reads book tours for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review
You can read a full, spoiler-free review on my blog: https://www.bookfrolic.com/book-blog-...
October 18, 2019
My Rating: 3.8 stars
This review is part of the #sapphireSmyth blogtour hosted by The Writereads.
Thanks a ton, Dave from @TheWriteReads and the author- R.J. Furness, for giving me this lovely opportunity and providing me with a free e-book copy of ‘Shadows’ in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
‘Shadows’ is the First part in the Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five YA Fantasy series. The book revolves around the life of the Birthday Girl- Sapphire who has just turned 18 and has been driven away from her house by her foster parents.
The story begins with a strange incident followed by Sapphire’s real mother’s death and her father deserting the family. Thereafter, Sapphire has lived with foster carers who have always seemed very distant to her. It’s been 18 years now, and Sapphire still lives in remoteness, as she fails to connect to anybody or anything. On her 18th birthday, Sapphire has been asked to leave the house by her foster parents and as a departing gift, they give Sapphire her mother’s Bangle. As Sapphire wanders around alone at night, she encounters certain odd patterns and bizarre silhouettes materializing inside the hollow passage where she takes shelter temporarily to avoid getting drenched outside. As the curious shadows appear on the wall facing her, they gradually metamorphose into a certain definite shape which looks like a creature, a living breathing creature. Utterly perplexed, Sapphire finds that her bangle glows a bright orange as she plays with the shadows and can actually touch and feel the newly metamorphosed creature. The story becomes even more interesting when Sapphire finds out that the glowing bangle, which has strangely clasped tightly to her wrist, and the mysterious silhouettes act as her saviour as everytime the long-dark night brings on life-threatening troubles for Sapphire, these mystifying silhouettes come to her rescue! As if they are her guardian! Sapphire can’t wait to unravel the mysteries hidden behind all these obfuscating phenomena.
As we delve deeper into the story, the mysteries begin to unfold. What induces the formation of those strange silhouettes? What are those queer shadowy creatures and what mysteries encircle the world that has given rise to them? What’s the secret behind Sapphire’s mother’s bangle? Is Sapphire somehow connected to this abstruse and surreal world of magic?
I enjoyed experiencing the world of Sapphire Smyth and the ‘Shadows’. It is a short, cozy tale which is perfect for a warm afternoon read! With it’s lucid language and fast pace, the story is easy to devour. Halfway into the story, the reader can feel the adventure intensifying and as one proceeds further, the suspense gradually builds up and it becomes more and more interesting. The story genuinely started grasping me when I reached Chapter Seven!
Since ‘Shadows’ is the first book of a six part series, the story ends with a cliffhanger, where Sapphire has just discovered the presence of mermaids in an arcane world. I am really very much eager to know what happens next and follow up the story. Despite the diaphanous nature of this 104 pages long story, the author has been really successful in building up an intensifying curiosity in the reader’s mind at the end of the story which is really appreciable! Looking forward to reading ‘Mermaids’ and more of the author’s works! I would gladly recommend this book to any YA Fantasy lovers out there!
Check out my blog:
http://musingsofanepeolator.home.blog
This review is part of the #sapphireSmyth blogtour hosted by The Writereads.
Thanks a ton, Dave from @TheWriteReads and the author- R.J. Furness, for giving me this lovely opportunity and providing me with a free e-book copy of ‘Shadows’ in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
‘Shadows’ is the First part in the Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five YA Fantasy series. The book revolves around the life of the Birthday Girl- Sapphire who has just turned 18 and has been driven away from her house by her foster parents.
The story begins with a strange incident followed by Sapphire’s real mother’s death and her father deserting the family. Thereafter, Sapphire has lived with foster carers who have always seemed very distant to her. It’s been 18 years now, and Sapphire still lives in remoteness, as she fails to connect to anybody or anything. On her 18th birthday, Sapphire has been asked to leave the house by her foster parents and as a departing gift, they give Sapphire her mother’s Bangle. As Sapphire wanders around alone at night, she encounters certain odd patterns and bizarre silhouettes materializing inside the hollow passage where she takes shelter temporarily to avoid getting drenched outside. As the curious shadows appear on the wall facing her, they gradually metamorphose into a certain definite shape which looks like a creature, a living breathing creature. Utterly perplexed, Sapphire finds that her bangle glows a bright orange as she plays with the shadows and can actually touch and feel the newly metamorphosed creature. The story becomes even more interesting when Sapphire finds out that the glowing bangle, which has strangely clasped tightly to her wrist, and the mysterious silhouettes act as her saviour as everytime the long-dark night brings on life-threatening troubles for Sapphire, these mystifying silhouettes come to her rescue! As if they are her guardian! Sapphire can’t wait to unravel the mysteries hidden behind all these obfuscating phenomena.
As we delve deeper into the story, the mysteries begin to unfold. What induces the formation of those strange silhouettes? What are those queer shadowy creatures and what mysteries encircle the world that has given rise to them? What’s the secret behind Sapphire’s mother’s bangle? Is Sapphire somehow connected to this abstruse and surreal world of magic?
I enjoyed experiencing the world of Sapphire Smyth and the ‘Shadows’. It is a short, cozy tale which is perfect for a warm afternoon read! With it’s lucid language and fast pace, the story is easy to devour. Halfway into the story, the reader can feel the adventure intensifying and as one proceeds further, the suspense gradually builds up and it becomes more and more interesting. The story genuinely started grasping me when I reached Chapter Seven!
Since ‘Shadows’ is the first book of a six part series, the story ends with a cliffhanger, where Sapphire has just discovered the presence of mermaids in an arcane world. I am really very much eager to know what happens next and follow up the story. Despite the diaphanous nature of this 104 pages long story, the author has been really successful in building up an intensifying curiosity in the reader’s mind at the end of the story which is really appreciable! Looking forward to reading ‘Mermaids’ and more of the author’s works! I would gladly recommend this book to any YA Fantasy lovers out there!
Check out my blog:
http://musingsofanepeolator.home.blog
November 2, 2019
Shadows by R.J. Furness is the first serialized novel set within the Sapphire Smyth and the Shadow of Five series, which is named after the main character. This is a YA fantasy novel set in the modern day.
The story begin on Sapphire’s eighteenth birthday, after she’d been kicked out/run away from home. Her foster family says it’s time for her to leave and in an a combination of rage and despair she does just that. That’s when things start to go wrong – her mother’s bracelet seems fused to Sapphire’s wrist, someone seems to be chasing her, and the shadows seem to be moving a bit more literally than they should be.
The magic in this world – as much as we know this far – is shadow magic. This is a bit different from many other magic systems, and something I enjoyed learning about. I would absolutely love to see where this is going in future volumes.
At barely over one hundred pages, the novel was quite short – absolutely readable within a morning’s commute to work. On the other hand, this particular installment felt as if it wanted to be longer. Introductions to our main characters felt a bit rushed, or glanced over entirely. Sapphire in particular would have been a much more sympathetic character if reader’s had been able to see the birthday fallout and strange bracelet fusion first-hand instead of having it explained later.
I must admit that many of Sapphire’s actions are rather baffling. This is exacerbated by the distance the readers have from her—we don’t see the events which initial set off this chain of events for ourselves. This isn’t made up for in others ways, either, such as having the narrative being told in first person.
Sapphire makes decisions based on pride and idiocy. Many of her decisions don’t make any sense. Running away in the rain without an umbrella and wearing heels to name two. Equally baffling was the relationship between Sapphire and Ben. While the two are supposed to be best friends, they certainly don’t act like it. Ben keeps leaving Sapphire to her pride driven self-destruction despite knowing more about the situation than he’s letting on, and Sapphire does her absolute damnedest to keep as much distance and unfounded animosity between them as she possibly can. Equally immersion breaking is the thought
Yet, there’s an interesting world set behind all this. A large, spooky house. Magic drawn from shadows. A new, unknown world. A past that was hidden. There’s an interesting concept at the heart of this story.
If you enjoy YA or serialized novels, Shadows by R.J. Furness might be a story you want to pick up.
This review and more originally found on Looking Glass Reads.
The story begin on Sapphire’s eighteenth birthday, after she’d been kicked out/run away from home. Her foster family says it’s time for her to leave and in an a combination of rage and despair she does just that. That’s when things start to go wrong – her mother’s bracelet seems fused to Sapphire’s wrist, someone seems to be chasing her, and the shadows seem to be moving a bit more literally than they should be.
The magic in this world – as much as we know this far – is shadow magic. This is a bit different from many other magic systems, and something I enjoyed learning about. I would absolutely love to see where this is going in future volumes.
At barely over one hundred pages, the novel was quite short – absolutely readable within a morning’s commute to work. On the other hand, this particular installment felt as if it wanted to be longer. Introductions to our main characters felt a bit rushed, or glanced over entirely. Sapphire in particular would have been a much more sympathetic character if reader’s had been able to see the birthday fallout and strange bracelet fusion first-hand instead of having it explained later.
I must admit that many of Sapphire’s actions are rather baffling. This is exacerbated by the distance the readers have from her—we don’t see the events which initial set off this chain of events for ourselves. This isn’t made up for in others ways, either, such as having the narrative being told in first person.
Sapphire makes decisions based on pride and idiocy. Many of her decisions don’t make any sense. Running away in the rain without an umbrella and wearing heels to name two. Equally baffling was the relationship between Sapphire and Ben. While the two are supposed to be best friends, they certainly don’t act like it. Ben keeps leaving Sapphire to her pride driven self-destruction despite knowing more about the situation than he’s letting on, and Sapphire does her absolute damnedest to keep as much distance and unfounded animosity between them as she possibly can. Equally immersion breaking is the thought
Yet, there’s an interesting world set behind all this. A large, spooky house. Magic drawn from shadows. A new, unknown world. A past that was hidden. There’s an interesting concept at the heart of this story.
If you enjoy YA or serialized novels, Shadows by R.J. Furness might be a story you want to pick up.
This review and more originally found on Looking Glass Reads.
October 14, 2019
The authors note at the beginning of this book tells us that the inspiration for Sapphire Smyth and the Shadow Five actually came from a strange phenomenon that occurs at the bottom of his stairs. People say that they have seen glimpses of what looked like a shadow coming alive and then dashing to hide.
Then he thought to himself, what if shadows could come to life?
The writing makes it hard not to be drawn into this mysterious world, there are so many questions and possibilities. Yet, when we are finally being given a glimpse of what is going on here, he leaves us hanging! I’m not going to lie I was a little disappointed with where he decided to end this.
Continue reading here: https://feedthecrime.wordpress.com/20...
Then he thought to himself, what if shadows could come to life?
The writing makes it hard not to be drawn into this mysterious world, there are so many questions and possibilities. Yet, when we are finally being given a glimpse of what is going on here, he leaves us hanging! I’m not going to lie I was a little disappointed with where he decided to end this.
Continue reading here: https://feedthecrime.wordpress.com/20...
March 19, 2019
*Recieved this book in exchange for an honest review*
After reading the author's introduction I was riveted. Straight away I knew this was going to be unique and not like anything else I'd read. An wonderful imaginative fantasy world (well R.J.Furness did bring Orgos into the world) and it's only the first book!
Sapphire Smyth is kicked out of her foster carer's home on her 18th birthday, they tell her that they can't afford to keep her anymore. No money from the government. She feels unwanted, her father abandoned her and now the people who brought her up have done this. I felt so sorry for her, she's a strong character though, no 'damsel in destress' you like her straight away:
"Sapphire didn't need saving by Ben - or anyone else."
If being kicked out wasn't hard enough she then ends up on the wet streets to find somewhere to sleep and weird things start happening.
I don't want to give too much away so I'm not sure how much to tell you. But it's good!
R.J. Furness does a good job of whetting your appetite with this first book in the series. There's so much tension and suspense you will end up reading this book in one sitting. I got to the end to the words 'To Be Continued...' and it's a lot like a cliffhanger to your favourite show, and you feel like shouting: wait, what happens next?
I loved this book so much I read it twice. Looking forward to the next one in the series, that's if I don't read it again by then.....
*
After reading the author's introduction I was riveted. Straight away I knew this was going to be unique and not like anything else I'd read. An wonderful imaginative fantasy world (well R.J.Furness did bring Orgos into the world) and it's only the first book!
Sapphire Smyth is kicked out of her foster carer's home on her 18th birthday, they tell her that they can't afford to keep her anymore. No money from the government. She feels unwanted, her father abandoned her and now the people who brought her up have done this. I felt so sorry for her, she's a strong character though, no 'damsel in destress' you like her straight away:
"Sapphire didn't need saving by Ben - or anyone else."
If being kicked out wasn't hard enough she then ends up on the wet streets to find somewhere to sleep and weird things start happening.
I don't want to give too much away so I'm not sure how much to tell you. But it's good!
R.J. Furness does a good job of whetting your appetite with this first book in the series. There's so much tension and suspense you will end up reading this book in one sitting. I got to the end to the words 'To Be Continued...' and it's a lot like a cliffhanger to your favourite show, and you feel like shouting: wait, what happens next?
I loved this book so much I read it twice. Looking forward to the next one in the series, that's if I don't read it again by then.....
*
March 17, 2019
Sapphire is an awesome character but at this time she is just beginning to learn. I already am hooked on this series. This has it all. So many great characters that we are only beginning to learn about. Action-packed with bullies and scary things, all making their mark in this society. Backstories that hopefully will be even further clarified. Suggestions of even more mysterious people and actions. I cannot wait for the next in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 21, 2021
Her father push her away when her mother died and she ended up with a new family. They turn their back on her once she hit 18. Now she needs to find a new place to live. She sees something in the shadows. What does it mean? What will she find out? See where life will take her
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 16, 2019
This has all the hallmarks of a great new series. An interesting idea to release in shorter installments but it was a quick read. Fast paced with great characters, can't wait for the next installment.
March 28, 2019
Great book. Strange things happening to pull you in and make you become apart of the story. Then comes to be continued... a readers worse nightmare, but also a good thing will keep thinking and looking out for the next instalment
July 10, 2019
Awesome Story start. Magic
Awesome magic story about beings. Started out just turning 18. Most stories start with that age turning on their power. Also look for the old lady in red from the alley way be the one who wants to destroy them all.
Awesome magic story about beings. Started out just turning 18. Most stories start with that age turning on their power. Also look for the old lady in red from the alley way be the one who wants to destroy them all.
August 24, 2020
Fascinating and Imaginative!
I really loved this young adult fantasy type book! It’s a quick read, but full of great reading! I recommend to all young adults and anyone who likes fantasy. It’s a really good book! This is Book One of the series, so on to the next! :)
I really loved this young adult fantasy type book! It’s a quick read, but full of great reading! I recommend to all young adults and anyone who likes fantasy. It’s a really good book! This is Book One of the series, so on to the next! :)
March 11, 2019
Very enjoyable evening spent reading the engaging and interesting book!
March 17, 2019
It has a fox, and there is so much to learn. I can't wait to read the next one!
September 9, 2019
This was a re-read that I absolutely adored as much as the first time!
October 18, 2019
Shadows explores the interesting concept of a shadow world where some special people in our world are able to interact with these shadow creatures. Written in bit-sized novellas, this book is the first to the Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five series. I found parts of the book eerie and haunting. Sapphire has just turned 18 years of age and now she is on her own in this world. With her decreased mother's bracelet, she doesn't quite know what is happening to the things around her.
Writing a novel is no easy task. Writing a series is no easier, especially when it comes to fantasy. With an interesting concept and quite a hook at the beginning, Shadows would truly have benefitted, in my mind, in creating well-rounded characters with some depth. With that, I suspect, the novella would have been longer and so would have been the serial. I'm curious to know what happens in the second part, but it makes me wonder if the novella could have ended at a less mysterious place and instead built the characters more concretely.
I am thankful to RJ Furness and The WriteReads for the complimentary copy of this book as part of the blog tour. I look forward to sharing more about the story then, as well as the author interview.
Writing a novel is no easy task. Writing a series is no easier, especially when it comes to fantasy. With an interesting concept and quite a hook at the beginning, Shadows would truly have benefitted, in my mind, in creating well-rounded characters with some depth. With that, I suspect, the novella would have been longer and so would have been the serial. I'm curious to know what happens in the second part, but it makes me wonder if the novella could have ended at a less mysterious place and instead built the characters more concretely.
I am thankful to RJ Furness and The WriteReads for the complimentary copy of this book as part of the blog tour. I look forward to sharing more about the story then, as well as the author interview.
August 31, 2019
3.5 stars
I received the kindle edition free from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review of this book.
"Have you ever seen something you can't explain? Did it vanish as fast as it appeared? Like... you're certain it was there. Then... it wasn't."
I was instantly drawn into this book before I was even approached by the author, so it was an instant yes! when I was asked if I would review it. I was not disappointed! What made this book instantly appealing to me is how it is set up, which is so fascinating to me... They are set up in serialised shorts, kind of like a TV series, where you have to wait for the next short to come out to find out what happens. It's exciting, and I really liked that concept, which I haven't seen before.
The beginning of the short actually reminded me a little of a TV series, the basic outline of the start of Supernatural, with some differences, which isn't a bad thing as I'm obsessed with that show. Probably why it popped into my head, plus the fact I've been talking about it lot lately with the show coming to an end. So I was already hooked to this booked and wanted to know what happened and had some questions building. Then we move forward 18 years and we see Sapphire all grown up, on her 18th Birthday.
Except for the prologue, the whole of this first short takes place on Sapphires 18th Birthday, and boy does she have a hell of a 18th Birthday! The beginning of the strange events begin taking place in Greyflower Gardens while she's hidden in the Hallow for the night, and that's when things take... a turn for the weirdness.
"Sapphire remained where she was and attempted to find a reason for what she was seeing, but nothing could explain the phenomenon."
There are secrets that are hidden and hinted at throughout, that just kept me hooked and wanting to know everything!!. And with it being serialised I still have questions I want answers to, so I'm so excited for the next one to come out. I feel like I'm Sapphire, just wanting all the answers and just getting some here and there... Please I can handle it!
In the first couple of chapters the author did mention the main characters name so many times, where he could've swapped it for her, she, or I. This didn't affect my enjoyment of this short, the story was too good for that. Now I need Part Two Mermaids!!
If your looking for something different, something to look forward to, a quick little read, then I highly recommend this. Hell, I recommend this regardless. It's always good to try something new and why not try something quick and fast to read. Best thing is, you'll be helping out an Indie Author in the process!!
I received the kindle edition free from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review of this book.
"Have you ever seen something you can't explain? Did it vanish as fast as it appeared? Like... you're certain it was there. Then... it wasn't."
I was instantly drawn into this book before I was even approached by the author, so it was an instant yes! when I was asked if I would review it. I was not disappointed! What made this book instantly appealing to me is how it is set up, which is so fascinating to me... They are set up in serialised shorts, kind of like a TV series, where you have to wait for the next short to come out to find out what happens. It's exciting, and I really liked that concept, which I haven't seen before.
The beginning of the short actually reminded me a little of a TV series, the basic outline of the start of Supernatural, with some differences, which isn't a bad thing as I'm obsessed with that show. Probably why it popped into my head, plus the fact I've been talking about it lot lately with the show coming to an end. So I was already hooked to this booked and wanted to know what happened and had some questions building. Then we move forward 18 years and we see Sapphire all grown up, on her 18th Birthday.
Except for the prologue, the whole of this first short takes place on Sapphires 18th Birthday, and boy does she have a hell of a 18th Birthday! The beginning of the strange events begin taking place in Greyflower Gardens while she's hidden in the Hallow for the night, and that's when things take... a turn for the weirdness.
"Sapphire remained where she was and attempted to find a reason for what she was seeing, but nothing could explain the phenomenon."
There are secrets that are hidden and hinted at throughout, that just kept me hooked and wanting to know everything!!. And with it being serialised I still have questions I want answers to, so I'm so excited for the next one to come out. I feel like I'm Sapphire, just wanting all the answers and just getting some here and there... Please I can handle it!
In the first couple of chapters the author did mention the main characters name so many times, where he could've swapped it for her, she, or I. This didn't affect my enjoyment of this short, the story was too good for that. Now I need Part Two Mermaids!!
If your looking for something different, something to look forward to, a quick little read, then I highly recommend this. Hell, I recommend this regardless. It's always good to try something new and why not try something quick and fast to read. Best thing is, you'll be helping out an Indie Author in the process!!
November 22, 2019
Sapphire is young and afraid of what’s happening to her and you feel that her reactions are probably valid given that she’s alone in the dark when things start to get a bit strange.
She’s got a caring best friend, a mysterious bracelet that belonged to her mother, and something is going on in the shadows.
I was really curious about what was going to happen to her, and I really wanted to figure it out, haha I was like Sapphire, ‘what is going on?!’ It id make you feel the tension for her and I have to say it was overall an enjoyable and quick read.
Coming to that point, it really was a short read, it’s the first in a serial series and so it’s not meant to be very long, and I loved that.
But now, it’s time for me to talk about the negatives for me. Though I felt Sapphire had every right to be afraid and confused, there was something I just couldn’t stand about her. Because I couldn’t get over this, it made the really awesome parts of the story a bit dimmer for me, BUT do not let me stop you from trying this because there are cool shadow creatures and an adorable shadow fox.
Thank you to the author and The Write Reads group for giving me a copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion!
August 23, 2020
The book jumps straight in at the deep end. With Sapphire turning 18 and getting kicked out of her foster parents house (probably not the best way to start your 18th birthday) She leaves with a bag full of random clothes the clothes on her back and a bracelet which used to belong to her mother.
Sapphire runs off to the woods where she has been many times to her usual hideout spot where she can keep dry and relatively warm. Sapphire begins to notice strange things happening in the shadows. A fox appears from the shadows and just looks at Sapphire barking. Then disappears. Sapphire leaves to go and look for the fox. Then gets attacked by something from the shadows? The shadows around her respond to this and help Sapphire get away from her assailant. She notices her mothers bracelet is glowing. Does this have something to do with the shadows and how they helped in her time of need?
Sapphire needs to find out what is happening and why. Will she find out the truth and discover what else this bracelet can do and why her mother had it.
The book is only about 100 pages long. It may seem short but packs quite a lot in such a short time. By the end the book will have you wanting more. I literally can't wait to read the other books in the series to see what will happen next.
Sapphire runs off to the woods where she has been many times to her usual hideout spot where she can keep dry and relatively warm. Sapphire begins to notice strange things happening in the shadows. A fox appears from the shadows and just looks at Sapphire barking. Then disappears. Sapphire leaves to go and look for the fox. Then gets attacked by something from the shadows? The shadows around her respond to this and help Sapphire get away from her assailant. She notices her mothers bracelet is glowing. Does this have something to do with the shadows and how they helped in her time of need?
Sapphire needs to find out what is happening and why. Will she find out the truth and discover what else this bracelet can do and why her mother had it.
The book is only about 100 pages long. It may seem short but packs quite a lot in such a short time. By the end the book will have you wanting more. I literally can't wait to read the other books in the series to see what will happen next.
March 4, 2021
Shadows is the first of six parts of the Sapphire Smyth & The Shadow Five serial series, a story which introduces us to a world just beyond our vision.
Just turned 18 and on her own after growing up in foster care, Sapphire is thrown into a world of mysterious creatures and secrets. While the premise of an MC who has been surrounded by people with secrets is nothing new, I love the concept of a shadow world - even in the first small serial, we get a taste of a darker atmosphere. The opening scene, in particular, absolutely sucks you in.
This first part only gives you a bare introduction to the characters, but already the star of the show is the 'shadow creatures'. I promise that you will love the sidekick/guardian in this one!
It's difficult to discuss something so short which is only part of an entire story (that's how serials work!), but it has me interested and I am absolutely picking up the next couple of parts in the series.
Just turned 18 and on her own after growing up in foster care, Sapphire is thrown into a world of mysterious creatures and secrets. While the premise of an MC who has been surrounded by people with secrets is nothing new, I love the concept of a shadow world - even in the first small serial, we get a taste of a darker atmosphere. The opening scene, in particular, absolutely sucks you in.
This first part only gives you a bare introduction to the characters, but already the star of the show is the 'shadow creatures'. I promise that you will love the sidekick/guardian in this one!
It's difficult to discuss something so short which is only part of an entire story (that's how serials work!), but it has me interested and I am absolutely picking up the next couple of parts in the series.
Note: Review copy received via TheWriteReads as part of a blog tour. This does not impact opinions within this review.
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