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Shadows of Montshire #1
A Murder of Shadows
As the old saying goes: The First is the Heir, the Second is the Spare, and of the Rest – Beware!
Savid DelaCrotia is the third born son of one of the Kingdom of Montshire’s oldest and most respected High families. Cast aside by his father at an early age, it’s up to him to make his own way and create his own honor. With just his horse, his weapons, the clothes on his back and in his pack, and the education that his family provided he’ll have to go it alone. Luckily, he already has a pretty good idea of what he’s good at – fighting, and woodcraft —not to mention finding hidden and lost items.
It’s also handy that he already knows exactly how to honor his Kingdom– by serving his best friend, who just happens to be the kingdom’s scary smart princess. But what does a princess who already has everything need? How about her own Shadow?
From the author of the Zone War trilogy and the Demon Accords series comes a slightly twisted take the genre of High Fantasy. Swords and spies meet monsters and magic (sort of) in the world of Nengled and the Kingdom of Montshire. If you’re looking for The Wheel of Time meets Game of Thrones, this isn’t it. Mr. Tolkien, please shield your eyes.
Savid DelaCrotia is the third born son of one of the Kingdom of Montshire’s oldest and most respected High families. Cast aside by his father at an early age, it’s up to him to make his own way and create his own honor. With just his horse, his weapons, the clothes on his back and in his pack, and the education that his family provided he’ll have to go it alone. Luckily, he already has a pretty good idea of what he’s good at – fighting, and woodcraft —not to mention finding hidden and lost items.
It’s also handy that he already knows exactly how to honor his Kingdom– by serving his best friend, who just happens to be the kingdom’s scary smart princess. But what does a princess who already has everything need? How about her own Shadow?
From the author of the Zone War trilogy and the Demon Accords series comes a slightly twisted take the genre of High Fantasy. Swords and spies meet monsters and magic (sort of) in the world of Nengled and the Kingdom of Montshire. If you’re looking for The Wheel of Time meets Game of Thrones, this isn’t it. Mr. Tolkien, please shield your eyes.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 4, 2020
421 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
John Conroe
35 books1,710 followersI'm the Urban Fantasy author of the Demon Accords series. For more information, check out my website or follow me on Facebook at the Demon Accords page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
June 7, 2020
The idea was good, the plot looked decent (although the post-apocalyptic fantasy genre has seen much use), but something fell hugely short in terms of characters.
The first thing to note was how the entire development of important characters was pretty much skipped as the prologue starts when they are 14 year old kids, and from chapter 1 they're 24 year old adults.
This was a mistake in my opinion, as a lot of character growth could have been described. You can only get away with doing that kind of a skip if the characters are well written enough that its easy for the readers to sink into them, and if the plot is good enough that it deserves the extra pages that could have gone for character development. In this case though unfortunately, neither the plot is that hooking, nor do the characters make you feel invested in them.
The second thing is how a lot of things related to their traits are just described rather than shown. We constantly hear how incredibly smart, cunning, intelligent the princess is, but I did not read a single sentence coming from her that gave me this impression.
In the same way, we're told of many traits the main character has, but I hardly got to see any of them.
Overall it felt like I was reading from a distance, and I couldn't get invested enough in the plot or the characters to make me want to read the next book.
The first thing to note was how the entire development of important characters was pretty much skipped as the prologue starts when they are 14 year old kids, and from chapter 1 they're 24 year old adults.
This was a mistake in my opinion, as a lot of character growth could have been described. You can only get away with doing that kind of a skip if the characters are well written enough that its easy for the readers to sink into them, and if the plot is good enough that it deserves the extra pages that could have gone for character development. In this case though unfortunately, neither the plot is that hooking, nor do the characters make you feel invested in them.
The second thing is how a lot of things related to their traits are just described rather than shown. We constantly hear how incredibly smart, cunning, intelligent the princess is, but I did not read a single sentence coming from her that gave me this impression.
In the same way, we're told of many traits the main character has, but I hardly got to see any of them.
Overall it felt like I was reading from a distance, and I couldn't get invested enough in the plot or the characters to make me want to read the next book.
June 2, 2020
In my late teen I grew dissatisfied with High Fantasy. It was not the patriarchal archetype I minded so much as it was the sameness of all the stories.
I enjoyed High Fantasy such as The Belgariad, The Malloreon, The Elenium, The Elfstones of Shannara (given to me by a friend which got me hooked on High Fantasy – thanks always, Sutt) and other famous, best selling High Fantasy series.
I forget now which book I was reading, but I suddenly realized I was just tired of High Fantasy. It was all the same – some dude out to do something, aided by magic, a Druid, destiny, etc. There was no difference in plots. High Fantasy had nearly become formulaic – wash, rinse and repeat.
If you are still reading and I have not chased you away from my soapbox, this is a long explanation as to why I started reading A Murder of Shadows (Shadows of Montshire, #1) holding my nose expecting another boring, trope-stuffed, patriarchal High Fantasy story.
I am somewhat familiar with the author, having read many of his Urban Fantasy stories, and was expecting something similar in this book.
A Murder of Shadows is patriarchal, the MC is a guy and it centers around what that dude is doing. However, there are quite a few surprises within A Murder of Shadows. Combat has been one of this author’s strong points and he doesn’t disappoint in A Murder of Shadows.
I did feel that the author was a little heavy handed with his hints, but if you get past the halfway point in the A Murder of Shadows and you haven’t figured out this world, perhaps he was correct in being so blatant.
There is some sex, but not graphic and all FTB which is this author’s style. There is a bit of cursing, but surprisingly light for a male-orientated, military story. Based upon my experiences in the US Army, I would have expected a lot more profanity from the soldiers.
I thoroughly enjoyed A Murder of Shadows and am looking forward to the next book.
I enjoyed High Fantasy such as The Belgariad, The Malloreon, The Elenium, The Elfstones of Shannara (given to me by a friend which got me hooked on High Fantasy – thanks always, Sutt) and other famous, best selling High Fantasy series.
I forget now which book I was reading, but I suddenly realized I was just tired of High Fantasy. It was all the same – some dude out to do something, aided by magic, a Druid, destiny, etc. There was no difference in plots. High Fantasy had nearly become formulaic – wash, rinse and repeat.
If you are still reading and I have not chased you away from my soapbox, this is a long explanation as to why I started reading A Murder of Shadows (Shadows of Montshire, #1) holding my nose expecting another boring, trope-stuffed, patriarchal High Fantasy story.
I am somewhat familiar with the author, having read many of his Urban Fantasy stories, and was expecting something similar in this book.
A Murder of Shadows is patriarchal, the MC is a guy and it centers around what that dude is doing. However, there are quite a few surprises within A Murder of Shadows. Combat has been one of this author’s strong points and he doesn’t disappoint in A Murder of Shadows.
I did feel that the author was a little heavy handed with his hints, but if you get past the halfway point in the A Murder of Shadows and you haven’t figured out this world, perhaps he was correct in being so blatant.
There is some sex, but not graphic and all FTB which is this author’s style. There is a bit of cursing, but surprisingly light for a male-orientated, military story. Based upon my experiences in the US Army, I would have expected a lot more profanity from the soldiers.
I thoroughly enjoyed A Murder of Shadows and am looking forward to the next book.
May 14, 2020
Rating 4.0 stars
This book is hard to describe. It is definitely a character driven story. It follows the life of Savid DelaCrotia. the third son of a noble family. He is also the crown princesses only friend. His father tells him the facts of his life when he is 14, that as a third son, he will not be part of the family when he is 16 and will be expected to make his own way in the world. He takes this to heart and goes off to learn how to be a warrior, that way when he is 16 he can join the military and still protect the kingdom and the princess. Fast forward 10 years later and We find out that he not only joined the military but became captain and got one of the countries highest honors. He also got demoted and retired in shame.
The time period is a little hard to place. It is 600 years or so after the time of the punished. Something happened where the society used to much technology and were punished and destroyed themselves. Now it is illegal to have advanced technology. There is a little magic in this world. People have something called talents which is sort of like psychic ability. The Kings enemies use genetic manipulation to alter their citizens and turn them into monster. They won the war but things may be heating up again.
I mentioned that this is hard to describe because there was no grand plot to this story. This wasn't a "kill the bad guy story", or "defeat the evil empire" story, where the goal is set from the beginning. The story was following Savid and learning more about him and his group and what they have to deal with. John Conroe does an excellent job of creating very competent main characters. Through training and experience they have become excellent and what they do. I enjoy reading about highly trained individuals performing up to their potential. I enjoyed this book.
This book is hard to describe. It is definitely a character driven story. It follows the life of Savid DelaCrotia. the third son of a noble family. He is also the crown princesses only friend. His father tells him the facts of his life when he is 14, that as a third son, he will not be part of the family when he is 16 and will be expected to make his own way in the world. He takes this to heart and goes off to learn how to be a warrior, that way when he is 16 he can join the military and still protect the kingdom and the princess. Fast forward 10 years later and We find out that he not only joined the military but became captain and got one of the countries highest honors. He also got demoted and retired in shame.
The time period is a little hard to place. It is 600 years or so after the time of the punished. Something happened where the society used to much technology and were punished and destroyed themselves. Now it is illegal to have advanced technology. There is a little magic in this world. People have something called talents which is sort of like psychic ability. The Kings enemies use genetic manipulation to alter their citizens and turn them into monster. They won the war but things may be heating up again.
I mentioned that this is hard to describe because there was no grand plot to this story. This wasn't a "kill the bad guy story", or "defeat the evil empire" story, where the goal is set from the beginning. The story was following Savid and learning more about him and his group and what they have to deal with. John Conroe does an excellent job of creating very competent main characters. Through training and experience they have become excellent and what they do. I enjoy reading about highly trained individuals performing up to their potential. I enjoyed this book.
May 15, 2020
Not what I expected
This book was not what I expected coming from John Conroe. I don't feel invested in any of the characters. The story is ok, but I'm not in the edge of my seat waiting for the next book like I am for The Demon Accords.
This book was not what I expected coming from John Conroe. I don't feel invested in any of the characters. The story is ok, but I'm not in the edge of my seat waiting for the next book like I am for The Demon Accords.
October 5, 2020
A very good "swords and sorcery" novel, as good as anything put out in the last few years. It is the beginning of a new and incomplete series. Up there with The Robin Hobb, Brian McClellan stuff.
May 13, 2020
I’m a huge fan of Demon Accords, really like Zone War, this was just a “C” for me. Nothing here was as interesting and or made you really love or hate the characters. I’m also not much of a fantasy middle age vibe reader. The names were a bit lame IMO. Still like the author’s writing style and will wait for Tanya’s tale.
May 26, 2020
Great Work!
I’m a big Conroe fan, and I’ve been looking forward to this book. Watching a good author play with his existing works is fun (a single scene from different character POV, and whole books featuring new / different characters), but another whole new genre? Oh hey. (His “Web” books are excellent genre changes, too.)
So I snatched it right up (SOP for all new Conroe books, really) and read it slowly over a few days.
The result? It’s good: really good. It’s a “medieval” “fantasy” story with a lot of really tasty moving parts, with a fast plot and elements that don’t come together until later. It reminds me very much of watching classic Errol Flynn movies like “Robin Hood”, or “Captain Blood”. The viewer comes in along with a hapless new character, introduced to an existing group with a strong camaraderie, with pre-existing plot, attitudes, events, and relationships that all “just are”. They’re all effectively immutable, with the group treating the hapless one with at best condescending humor, to at worst strong suspicion, until the newbie finally “gets it”, merges into the group, and proves themselves trustworthy and (hopefully) valuable.
It’s a classic plot type because it works, and it works vey well in the very brief time the movie has to invest you with the plot. It works well for a first book in a series for the same reason.
Wrap that with Conroe’s style, forceful characters, excellent action, and imaginative worlds, and you get something colorful and interesting. There’s far more going in here than meets the eye. Some gracious text hints at what the world is really like, but more importantly, in the immediate sense, we’re still left with many delightful blanks, left wanting more, after being introduced to a story and characters with great promise. The next book can fill in some gaps, polish a few details and history, now that we have the main points - and of course, continue the story. Frankly, I can’t wait.
Most definitely recommended. (15+)
I’m a big Conroe fan, and I’ve been looking forward to this book. Watching a good author play with his existing works is fun (a single scene from different character POV, and whole books featuring new / different characters), but another whole new genre? Oh hey. (His “Web” books are excellent genre changes, too.)
So I snatched it right up (SOP for all new Conroe books, really) and read it slowly over a few days.
The result? It’s good: really good. It’s a “medieval” “fantasy” story with a lot of really tasty moving parts, with a fast plot and elements that don’t come together until later. It reminds me very much of watching classic Errol Flynn movies like “Robin Hood”, or “Captain Blood”. The viewer comes in along with a hapless new character, introduced to an existing group with a strong camaraderie, with pre-existing plot, attitudes, events, and relationships that all “just are”. They’re all effectively immutable, with the group treating the hapless one with at best condescending humor, to at worst strong suspicion, until the newbie finally “gets it”, merges into the group, and proves themselves trustworthy and (hopefully) valuable.
It’s a classic plot type because it works, and it works vey well in the very brief time the movie has to invest you with the plot. It works well for a first book in a series for the same reason.
Wrap that with Conroe’s style, forceful characters, excellent action, and imaginative worlds, and you get something colorful and interesting. There’s far more going in here than meets the eye. Some gracious text hints at what the world is really like, but more importantly, in the immediate sense, we’re still left with many delightful blanks, left wanting more, after being introduced to a story and characters with great promise. The next book can fill in some gaps, polish a few details and history, now that we have the main points - and of course, continue the story. Frankly, I can’t wait.
Most definitely recommended. (15+)
July 2, 2020
John Conroe is a very good writer who invents interesting stories and characters. This book misses the mark for me. Part of that is the sense of incompleteness in the story. Part is that I am usually less interested in this kind of semi-medieval setting. In retrospect, I found myself comparing this to the excellent Alex Bledsoe stories featuring sword for hire Eddie LaCrosse. Both are noble sons too far down the inheritance ladders but who have grown up as good friends with the future rulers of their countries. I can only hope that as Conroe continues to develop this series his stories become as good as Bledsoe's. In any case, I will continue reading this series, at least for now.
July 5, 2022
A fantastic start to a new series from one of my favorite authors!
December 29, 2020
Listened to audiobook w/hubby
(3.5 stars)
(3.5 stars)
May 24, 2020
A swing and a miss. For me the formula doesn't work in the world presented.
July 6, 2020
Feels like this should have been the second book in the series
If you like post apocalyptic fantasy/sci-fi, and don't mind beginning in the middle of the story, you will probably like this book. Personally, I found it difficult to get engaged. The beginning was interesting as the youngest son of a feudal lord chooses his own fate. Then came the dreaded chapter 1 title: "Ten years later". Now the protagonist has been disgraced, but we don't know why. He is surrounded by interesting characters, but we know nothing about them. They have a shared history that sounds interesting, but we don't know what it is. He was a big hero in a recent war, but we don't know what he did, or what the war was about, or anything else really. He has a problematic relationship with his family, but there's no reason given. We do learn a few things throughout the story, but this is not a catchup book.
The futurism of this book is probably its greatest strength. If you enjoy supposition, extrapolation, and hypotheses, this book does an interesting job postulating what our world would be like under a specific set of circumstances.
If you are a fan of this author's work, you will expect an overpowered protagonist, with a heart of gold, who is unfailingly devoted to his cause and his people, whose moral compass is unambiguous, and whose fascination with weapons is only marginally less intense than his efforts to master them. You would not be disappointed. However, you may be disappointed that you don't get to follow the protagonist as he matures and comes into his own. That all happened before this story. It disappointed me.
I'd have given it 4 stars, if I hadn't been disappointed.
If you like post apocalyptic fantasy/sci-fi, and don't mind beginning in the middle of the story, you will probably like this book. Personally, I found it difficult to get engaged. The beginning was interesting as the youngest son of a feudal lord chooses his own fate. Then came the dreaded chapter 1 title: "Ten years later". Now the protagonist has been disgraced, but we don't know why. He is surrounded by interesting characters, but we know nothing about them. They have a shared history that sounds interesting, but we don't know what it is. He was a big hero in a recent war, but we don't know what he did, or what the war was about, or anything else really. He has a problematic relationship with his family, but there's no reason given. We do learn a few things throughout the story, but this is not a catchup book.
The futurism of this book is probably its greatest strength. If you enjoy supposition, extrapolation, and hypotheses, this book does an interesting job postulating what our world would be like under a specific set of circumstances.
If you are a fan of this author's work, you will expect an overpowered protagonist, with a heart of gold, who is unfailingly devoted to his cause and his people, whose moral compass is unambiguous, and whose fascination with weapons is only marginally less intense than his efforts to master them. You would not be disappointed. However, you may be disappointed that you don't get to follow the protagonist as he matures and comes into his own. That all happened before this story. It disappointed me.
I'd have given it 4 stars, if I hadn't been disappointed.
May 31, 2023
3.5 Stars
For the full review, check out: https://medium.com/@essentialreadings...
What's the story about: A Murder of Shadows follows an exiled son and his band of military operatives. The POV switches between the protagonist and a bard that follows the group and each have an interestingly differing perspective. While this story is straightforward in the way it's told, it is fuzzy as to what the actual plot is. There is political machinations at play and villainous people all around, but the actual plot is next to nonexistent. It's about the main character and his life as a deeply experienced veteran doing what it takes to keep his country safe.
A Murder of Shadows was a great book to find randomly. I was immediately engaged with the world and the characters, even when I found that I didn't connect with them or their exploits deeply. While the plot was often unclear or nonexistent, the way in which the story unfolded was truly tantalizing and it engrossed me with each page. A confusing book like this shouldn't be as good as it is but I honestly felt like I was enjoying simply being in the world even when the plot wasn't all that important or necessary. There is some fun, some slice of life, action, and light political intrigue in between. This adventure is low-key in terms of tone with stakes that aren't over the top and I found myself still engrossed the entire time. I'm excited to see where the story goes and think it could really become a satisfying story to engage in further.
For the full review, check out: https://medium.com/@essentialreadings...
What's the story about: A Murder of Shadows follows an exiled son and his band of military operatives. The POV switches between the protagonist and a bard that follows the group and each have an interestingly differing perspective. While this story is straightforward in the way it's told, it is fuzzy as to what the actual plot is. There is political machinations at play and villainous people all around, but the actual plot is next to nonexistent. It's about the main character and his life as a deeply experienced veteran doing what it takes to keep his country safe.
A Murder of Shadows was a great book to find randomly. I was immediately engaged with the world and the characters, even when I found that I didn't connect with them or their exploits deeply. While the plot was often unclear or nonexistent, the way in which the story unfolded was truly tantalizing and it engrossed me with each page. A confusing book like this shouldn't be as good as it is but I honestly felt like I was enjoying simply being in the world even when the plot wasn't all that important or necessary. There is some fun, some slice of life, action, and light political intrigue in between. This adventure is low-key in terms of tone with stakes that aren't over the top and I found myself still engrossed the entire time. I'm excited to see where the story goes and think it could really become a satisfying story to engage in further.
November 14, 2020
Great take on this particular genre (secrets secrets)
Really enjoyed this one. Gave enough clues to figure out what happened in the past etc etc. Allowed me time to figure things out about the characters, the people and the settings. Left out enough to enthrall me, but not too much to confuse me. All round great read
Really enjoyed this one. Gave enough clues to figure out what happened in the past etc etc. Allowed me time to figure things out about the characters, the people and the settings. Left out enough to enthrall me, but not too much to confuse me. All round great read
December 5, 2021
The book was amazing, I have no idea what the detractors are babbling about.
In this new series, Conroe displays all of his amazing and intricate character building skills to absolutely full effect. That said, his world building has exceeded itself tenfold. I am completely entranced by what this new genre has inspired in one of my favorite authors. He manages to jump straight from modern urban fantasy set in basically our own world and time to an entirely unique world all of his own Crafting. Not happy with simply successfully making up his own world with its own unique characteristics, Conroe teases us with alluring references to this elaborate world's dark past; and it’s a past that certainly sounds more familiar to that reality which we all reside in today.
What?! An elaborate fantasy world that just so happens, all most casually, to be a post-apocalyptic phoenix risen from the ashes of a much more modern society that was punished for its blinded worshipping of technology? Yes, please! Also, I can not WAIT for the prequel, please and thank you, Mr. Conroe!
The story begins wonderfully here in book 1, building and drawing the reader (and listener, as I always buy both the Kindle and the Audible versions to listen while I read along, and I absolutely ADORE Cronin as the narrator) in, and inviting them to become completely enchanted with every character. So much so that picking favorites is hard, though I really enjoy Trell! He is quite the bard, but the other characters are just as lovable (or hateable, where appropriate).
I am forced to think that his other diehard fans with poor things to say are simply disappointed that a certain Warlock didn't pop out and become a lord of this world, too (now there's a thought). Being that I love all of the fantasy/sci fi genres when they are visited by master storytellers like Conroe, I have quite enough experience tromping through worlds to say: Good job, Mr. Conroe, this librarian soul loves and applauds your work, and I beseech you to continue!
Happily, since I waited a bit to read this one (yeah, I’m eyeing those early reviewers and laying blame, but once bitten, twice shy, I assure you), I can now go dive headfirst into book 2. Happy reading, dears.
In this new series, Conroe displays all of his amazing and intricate character building skills to absolutely full effect. That said, his world building has exceeded itself tenfold. I am completely entranced by what this new genre has inspired in one of my favorite authors. He manages to jump straight from modern urban fantasy set in basically our own world and time to an entirely unique world all of his own Crafting. Not happy with simply successfully making up his own world with its own unique characteristics, Conroe teases us with alluring references to this elaborate world's dark past; and it’s a past that certainly sounds more familiar to that reality which we all reside in today.
What?! An elaborate fantasy world that just so happens, all most casually, to be a post-apocalyptic phoenix risen from the ashes of a much more modern society that was punished for its blinded worshipping of technology? Yes, please! Also, I can not WAIT for the prequel, please and thank you, Mr. Conroe!
The story begins wonderfully here in book 1, building and drawing the reader (and listener, as I always buy both the Kindle and the Audible versions to listen while I read along, and I absolutely ADORE Cronin as the narrator) in, and inviting them to become completely enchanted with every character. So much so that picking favorites is hard, though I really enjoy Trell! He is quite the bard, but the other characters are just as lovable (or hateable, where appropriate).
I am forced to think that his other diehard fans with poor things to say are simply disappointed that a certain Warlock didn't pop out and become a lord of this world, too (now there's a thought). Being that I love all of the fantasy/sci fi genres when they are visited by master storytellers like Conroe, I have quite enough experience tromping through worlds to say: Good job, Mr. Conroe, this librarian soul loves and applauds your work, and I beseech you to continue!
Happily, since I waited a bit to read this one (yeah, I’m eyeing those early reviewers and laying blame, but once bitten, twice shy, I assure you), I can now go dive headfirst into book 2. Happy reading, dears.
June 11, 2020
3.5
This was an odd bit, and I can't figure out if it's because the combination of Conroe and his narrator, who narrates all his stuff, I just expect to be doing contemporary stuff. So, often the language of this book seemed a bit anachronistic. Given where it went in terms of the history of the world I suppose that's explained away, but it took a little getting used to for me.
It wasn't anything I was unable to overcome, however, and I see the bones of this story and like it.
I really hated the ending though. It's not really Conroe's style to do fish hook endings and this definitely was one. I'm willilng to wait and see what he intends to do with the rest of the series but fish hook endings will have me giving up until the series is complete. I don't like to be toyed with, I don't like to close a book feeling like I signed up for a story and got a piece of one instead, and I don't appreciate being teased without my advanced consent. So, cliff hangers and fish hook endings are my least favorite thing.
See? I can learn. It's an unsatisfactory ending and I didn't give him a single star. This is me on magnanimity.
This was an odd bit, and I can't figure out if it's because the combination of Conroe and his narrator, who narrates all his stuff, I just expect to be doing contemporary stuff. So, often the language of this book seemed a bit anachronistic. Given where it went in terms of the history of the world I suppose that's explained away, but it took a little getting used to for me.
It wasn't anything I was unable to overcome, however, and I see the bones of this story and like it.
I really hated the ending though. It's not really Conroe's style to do fish hook endings and this definitely was one. I'm willilng to wait and see what he intends to do with the rest of the series but fish hook endings will have me giving up until the series is complete. I don't like to be toyed with, I don't like to close a book feeling like I signed up for a story and got a piece of one instead, and I don't appreciate being teased without my advanced consent. So, cliff hangers and fish hook endings are my least favorite thing.
See? I can learn. It's an unsatisfactory ending and I didn't give him a single star. This is me on magnanimity.
August 4, 2020
“She can more than take care of herself, Sarge,” Cort said from Savid’s other side.
“But can she do it without maiming anyone?” Savid asked.
“Well, I mean, if you’re going to put conditions on things, then I don’t know?”
4.5/5.0 What a pleasant surprise. A Murder of Shadow, written by John Conroe, know for his fulfillment urban fantasy series, is a new take on a gritty sort of dark high fantasy. I was actually thoroughly impressed by his writing here and found the story extremely engaging and interesting. Characters seems well developed, relationships were established, and plot was primed for the following stories. The book did not read like a self published one and I marveled at the improvement in writing (at least compared to his older novels). I will for sure be looking out for the sequel, hopefully being released later this year.
“But can she do it without maiming anyone?” Savid asked.
“Well, I mean, if you’re going to put conditions on things, then I don’t know?”
4.5/5.0 What a pleasant surprise. A Murder of Shadow, written by John Conroe, know for his fulfillment urban fantasy series, is a new take on a gritty sort of dark high fantasy. I was actually thoroughly impressed by his writing here and found the story extremely engaging and interesting. Characters seems well developed, relationships were established, and plot was primed for the following stories. The book did not read like a self published one and I marveled at the improvement in writing (at least compared to his older novels). I will for sure be looking out for the sequel, hopefully being released later this year.
May 10, 2020
I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed it.
James Patrick Cronin narrated well and the story has John Conroe's usual cracking pace and action which kept me engaged and entertained throughout. It was a bit like the audio equivalent of an enjoyable action film.
I also love that this author consistently writes stong female characters into his stories.
The world building was good, it painted a picture without getting bogged down.
I'm hoping the author follows his usual path whereby the goodies come out on top in a satisfying way.
The ending of this book has me worried for the individual concerned - yikes!
Looking forward to the next book.
James Patrick Cronin narrated well and the story has John Conroe's usual cracking pace and action which kept me engaged and entertained throughout. It was a bit like the audio equivalent of an enjoyable action film.
I also love that this author consistently writes stong female characters into his stories.
The world building was good, it painted a picture without getting bogged down.
I'm hoping the author follows his usual path whereby the goodies come out on top in a satisfying way.
The ending of this book has me worried for the individual concerned - yikes!
Looking forward to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2021
Very Glad I Finally Read This!
Needs an editor to tighten it up in several places for sure, but an excellent story that caught my attention within the first 3 chapters and made me want to read all night long. I have been with his Demon books since the beginning and game loved them and still do and avoided starting this because it just didn't sound good, but it was. Some cognitive dissonance with the modern dialog when I expected your usual somewhat stilted language typically found in fantasy novels but you sort of eventually get used to it, but that definitely needs some work going forward.
Needs an editor to tighten it up in several places for sure, but an excellent story that caught my attention within the first 3 chapters and made me want to read all night long. I have been with his Demon books since the beginning and game loved them and still do and avoided starting this because it just didn't sound good, but it was. Some cognitive dissonance with the modern dialog when I expected your usual somewhat stilted language typically found in fantasy novels but you sort of eventually get used to it, but that definitely needs some work going forward.
June 6, 2021
I wasn't sure what I would think of this one, as it's a new direction for John Conroe but I took a leap pf faith as I love his other work so much and as always I was not disappointed. I think at this point I would read his shopping list and enjoy it! As always brilliantly and expertly read by James Patrick Cronin on audible. The characters are where this author's strengths lies (not that the story wasn't fabulous too!) but they are so relatable, so engaging and you just want to know them. As so often, I found myself thinking about this book whenever I wasn't listening, the highest praise a book can get in my opinion.
June 2, 2020
John continues to turn out books that are easily approachable and fun to read. The backstory for the characters starts a bit shallow, but Conroe does a good job of filling in the blanks as the story goes along. One thing Conroe fans can all appreciate is that his books come out on a regular cadence and he provides regular updates via his Facebook page (word count Wednesday FTW). Sure there are some things that you can ding this book for, but on the whole, its just a fun story and I'll take that every day of the week. Thanks for another fun ride Mr. C
June 9, 2020
Smug
A bland fantasy adventure set in a post apocalyptic New England. Full of pseudoscience, weak magic, and a boring obsession with modern special forces.
The most likable character is Trell the Magnificent. He isn't likable but he is the best of the bunch.
The tone of smug confidence - in the technology, the techniques, the politics, the tradecraft - throughout the book was hard to push past and the result was not worth the effort.
I will skip the rest of this series. You can skip the whole thing, you lucky person.
A bland fantasy adventure set in a post apocalyptic New England. Full of pseudoscience, weak magic, and a boring obsession with modern special forces.
The most likable character is Trell the Magnificent. He isn't likable but he is the best of the bunch.
The tone of smug confidence - in the technology, the techniques, the politics, the tradecraft - throughout the book was hard to push past and the result was not worth the effort.
I will skip the rest of this series. You can skip the whole thing, you lucky person.
October 2, 2020
I'm a couple chapters into this book. I feel like it's a
I liked it. Even though I smelt the residue of character traits the author loves to use (from his previous books), it was fun. A post apocalyptic special forces novel, with minor magic gifts
I will be reading the next novel.
4/5 Stars
I liked it. Even though I smelt the residue of character traits the author loves to use (from his previous books), it was fun. A post apocalyptic special forces novel, with minor magic gifts
I will be reading the next novel.
4/5 Stars
December 4, 2020
This is a solid sci-fi/fantasy novel with well-crafted characters and some unique elements. It is not the addictive thrill-ride I was hoping for. There's something missing... perhaps I'm just not invested enough in Mont-shire and its people to care too deeply about what happens to them?
If it were any other author, I'd be content and toss a coin as to whether to continue with the series. Sadly, this is John Conroe and I'm simultaneously disappointed and, out of a sense of loyalty, probably going to stick with it.
If it were any other author, I'd be content and toss a coin as to whether to continue with the series. Sadly, this is John Conroe and I'm simultaneously disappointed and, out of a sense of loyalty, probably going to stick with it.
August 15, 2021
Not your usual
I have been reading fantasy forever. The new stories follow the same plot line: orphaned/ Street kid, finds a mentor, years of warrior/assassin training. You follow this in mindless lock steps. Grows up(finally), goes to work for king/queen/bad guy; saves the country; gets the princess/princess. This time I got to miss that 300 pages of minutia and into the story. Story remains predictable, but a lot better than many I have started to read/listen to and discarded on boredom.
I have been reading fantasy forever. The new stories follow the same plot line: orphaned/ Street kid, finds a mentor, years of warrior/assassin training. You follow this in mindless lock steps. Grows up(finally), goes to work for king/queen/bad guy; saves the country; gets the princess/princess. This time I got to miss that 300 pages of minutia and into the story. Story remains predictable, but a lot better than many I have started to read/listen to and discarded on boredom.
December 2, 2022
Am a huge fan of Conroe's Demon Accords series, so made sense to venture into his fantasy world. Excellent characters, as l've come to expect from the author and very good world building.
The MC is a ranger(though he is not called that), master of arms, stealth and dealing with the wild. He leads a group of likewise trained men and women in defense of a realm called Montshire.
There's a lot of world building and setting the cast and situation in this book and I look forward to reading the next.
The MC is a ranger(though he is not called that), master of arms, stealth and dealing with the wild. He leads a group of likewise trained men and women in defense of a realm called Montshire.
There's a lot of world building and setting the cast and situation in this book and I look forward to reading the next.
May 16, 2020
This book was pretty hard to get into.
Start off with very little world-building and back story.
Then jump ahead in time.
Then have a battle scene.
The book certainly gets better over time, but honestly if I'd had something else to read, I probably would have put it down after chapter 2, and not picked it back up.
3 stars because the book gets better (Although never great), but that start is pretty darn bad.
Start off with very little world-building and back story.
Then jump ahead in time.
Then have a battle scene.
The book certainly gets better over time, but honestly if I'd had something else to read, I probably would have put it down after chapter 2, and not picked it back up.
3 stars because the book gets better (Although never great), but that start is pretty darn bad.
May 31, 2020
Really Blah so far. There's a certain something in conroe's novels - a sense of belongingness, if you will. In either of his series, there's this visceral sense of involvement and credibility. Even in the demon accords, there's a feeling of possibility even if it's urban fantasy. But this novel is too stylized and missing something at it's core. When Anthony Ryan or Joe Abercrombie write medieval fiction, there's this sense of unreal reality - Conroe doesn't find his voice in this setting.
June 3, 2020
Good character depth. Other than an abrupt 10 year fast forward the plot was good and got better.
Though not advertised as such there are plenty of clues to deduce its a post nuclear holocaust setting. the protagonists are located in what used to be New Hampshire and the fanatically crazy antagonist is in what used to be Pennsylvania. Imaginative use of terminology and consistent post apocolypse technologly (and lack therofe) make a good read.
Though not advertised as such there are plenty of clues to deduce its a post nuclear holocaust setting. the protagonists are located in what used to be New Hampshire and the fanatically crazy antagonist is in what used to be Pennsylvania. Imaginative use of terminology and consistent post apocolypse technologly (and lack therofe) make a good read.
May 24, 2021
Having read a lot of self-published works lately, it was refreshing to find myself back in the hands of a dependable storyteller. Mr. Conroe delivers a fun story, well-balanced, and realistic. There is good pacing, innovative world-building, and some genre bending with both steam-punk and post-apocalyptic elements all somehow mixing harmoniously to make a story you can relax and immerse into without fear of plot holes, unrealistic action scenes, or contrived resolutions. 5 Stars!
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