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The Monsters of Rookhaven #2
The Shadows of Rookhaven
The exquisite sequel to The Monsters of Rookhaven, following the half-human and half-monster Mirabelle on a mission to protect the only home she's ever known from a sinister new threat bent on eradicating her family, perfect for fans of Christian McKay Heidicker, Robert Beatty, and Victoria Schwab.
Shadows are gathering over Rookhaven Village, and no human―or monster―is safe . . .
In the wake of the shocking revelation that Mirabelle is part human and part monster, our heroine feels like an outsider, both at home and in the greater human world. She isn't quite like the rest of the monsters who raised her at Rookhaven Manor, but she also doesn't recognize herself in humanity, especially after witnessing the terrifying damage left by The Blitz .
But as the Great Configuration, a once in a hundred years event, descends upon Rookhaven Village, there's barely enough time to think of herself. Humans and monsters are gathering from all over the country to take part in the festivities. Though, amid the guests is an insidious A young boy named Billy, who is desperate to protect his own, is working for someone who wants to destroy Mirabelle's family.
When Billy steals something precious to Mirabelle, there's more than just her family at stake. Billy is being used for an experiment that could incite a disaster that will affect humans and monsters alike. With the fate of the world on her shoulders, Mirabelle must risk everything and everyone to save the people she loves most.
A stunning gothic fantasy with a beating heart, The Shadows of Rookhaven concludes Pádraig Kenny's duology with a masterful ending that reveals the crucial truth that family is much more than just a place―it's the people you love and the home you find within yourself.
Shadows are gathering over Rookhaven Village, and no human―or monster―is safe . . .
In the wake of the shocking revelation that Mirabelle is part human and part monster, our heroine feels like an outsider, both at home and in the greater human world. She isn't quite like the rest of the monsters who raised her at Rookhaven Manor, but she also doesn't recognize herself in humanity, especially after witnessing the terrifying damage left by The Blitz .
But as the Great Configuration, a once in a hundred years event, descends upon Rookhaven Village, there's barely enough time to think of herself. Humans and monsters are gathering from all over the country to take part in the festivities. Though, amid the guests is an insidious A young boy named Billy, who is desperate to protect his own, is working for someone who wants to destroy Mirabelle's family.
When Billy steals something precious to Mirabelle, there's more than just her family at stake. Billy is being used for an experiment that could incite a disaster that will affect humans and monsters alike. With the fate of the world on her shoulders, Mirabelle must risk everything and everyone to save the people she loves most.
A stunning gothic fantasy with a beating heart, The Shadows of Rookhaven concludes Pádraig Kenny's duology with a masterful ending that reveals the crucial truth that family is much more than just a place―it's the people you love and the home you find within yourself.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published September 30, 2021
15 people are currently reading
860 people want to read
About the author
Pádraig Kenny
7 books140 followersPádraig Kenny is an Irish writer who hails from Newbridge in County Kildare.
His debut novel Tin was published in 2018 and was Waterstones Children’s Book of the Month. It has been nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Medal and several other awards.
His second novel Pog was published in April 2019 and was Independent Bookseller's Book of the Month.
His third novel The Monsters of Rookhaven was published in September 2020 by Pan Macmillan. It won the Honour Award for Fiction in the 2021 KPMG Children's Books Ireland awards and was Waterstones Children's Book of the Month in October 2021, and has been nominated for the Carnegie Medal. It has also been optioned by Dream Logic Studios with the intention of adapting it into an animated movie. The sequel, The Shadows of Rookhaven, was published in 2021. The Shadows of Rookhaven won the KPMG Children's Books Ireland Honour Award for Fiction in 2022.
His fifth novel "Stitch" was published by Walker Books in 2024. It was Times Children's Book of the Month in January 2024. This was followed by "After" in 2025.
His debut novel Tin was published in 2018 and was Waterstones Children’s Book of the Month. It has been nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Medal and several other awards.
His second novel Pog was published in April 2019 and was Independent Bookseller's Book of the Month.
His third novel The Monsters of Rookhaven was published in September 2020 by Pan Macmillan. It won the Honour Award for Fiction in the 2021 KPMG Children's Books Ireland awards and was Waterstones Children's Book of the Month in October 2021, and has been nominated for the Carnegie Medal. It has also been optioned by Dream Logic Studios with the intention of adapting it into an animated movie. The sequel, The Shadows of Rookhaven, was published in 2021. The Shadows of Rookhaven won the KPMG Children's Books Ireland Honour Award for Fiction in 2022.
His fifth novel "Stitch" was published by Walker Books in 2024. It was Times Children's Book of the Month in January 2024. This was followed by "After" in 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
December 24, 2021
Wow! This is just as dark, & as BEAUTIFUL as the first. Beautiful with the writing & the illustrations. These books make you FEEL. I love this world, & the story. It’s all so creative, imaginative, vivid, intriguing, atmospheric, & gripping. If all that isn’t great enough, Pádraig Kenny writes characters like I’ve never seen before. He writes the BEST characters, & his writing is so phenomenal with every part of his story, that when it comes to his characters-you fall in love with them, & they STAY with you. They make an impact.
Piglet in here is the best written character I’ve EVER seen. Just thinking about the character gets me emotional. Not in a sad way, but in a..IDK how to explain it..but Piglet is so beautiful, & makes you feel everything & in such a unique & magical way. Just like the 1st book, Piglet’s chapters are blacked out pages, & more than once his parts have made me teary eyed at just the BEAUTY of his thoughts. It’s so good!!!!!! The way he looks at life, people, feelings, EVERYTHING is just so raw, pure, honest, & again lol-BEAUTIFUL! I can’t say a lot about things in here since it’s the 2nd book, but I loved what the author did with Piglet in this 1 from beginning to end, & Piglet is far superior to any human on this planet lol Piglet is the best.
Then there are all the other amazing characters, even the villains! Mirabelle is such an intriguing, evolving, complex character. Her character development over these 2 books is superb. I love learning more & more about her, including things she is learning at the same time as us about herself. So perfectly paced, as are the books themselves. The Family is still eccentric & fabulous. We get to spend more time with & learn more about 1 family member in particular, & I loved that. The next to last chapter gave me goosebumps & all the feels. The villain(s) in here are fascinating themselves! What they’re doing, what they want to do, why they want to do it, & how. Written so well! We also meet some new amazing characters in here. One is a member of the family(silver flames!lol)who actually grew on me, & I became quite fond of. Another is a boy who quickly became another of this authors characters who will forever have a place in my heart.
I don’t know if there will be more, but I can see so many places it can go from here, & especially with that last line in the book(that also gave me goosebumps). Some great twists in here as well! I HOPE THERE’S MORE TO COME! Haha This also has great themes of loss, grief, hope, justice, mortality, belonging, family, friendship, etc. Also, how you treat others can sometimes have a lasting effect on their lives you may never even realize.
Shunning people for being different is not ok, & can have harmful effects. Like all of Kenny’s books, this makes you think about who the real monsters in life are. Don’t let appearances fool you.
This is an original, thrilling, suspenseful, gripping, moving, dark, beautiful story. Full of so much heart & determination. I was trying to just read 2 chapters a night to drag it out so I could stay with this story/characters longer. Well, yesterday I picked it up at 50%, & couldn’t put it down. Finished the rest in 1 go lol HIGHLY recommend! Edward Bettison did a STUNNING job yet again on this book. The cover, the end pages, & the illustrations inside are just beautiful.💜
Piglet in here is the best written character I’ve EVER seen. Just thinking about the character gets me emotional. Not in a sad way, but in a..IDK how to explain it..but Piglet is so beautiful, & makes you feel everything & in such a unique & magical way. Just like the 1st book, Piglet’s chapters are blacked out pages, & more than once his parts have made me teary eyed at just the BEAUTY of his thoughts. It’s so good!!!!!! The way he looks at life, people, feelings, EVERYTHING is just so raw, pure, honest, & again lol-BEAUTIFUL! I can’t say a lot about things in here since it’s the 2nd book, but I loved what the author did with Piglet in this 1 from beginning to end, & Piglet is far superior to any human on this planet lol Piglet is the best.
Then there are all the other amazing characters, even the villains! Mirabelle is such an intriguing, evolving, complex character. Her character development over these 2 books is superb. I love learning more & more about her, including things she is learning at the same time as us about herself. So perfectly paced, as are the books themselves. The Family is still eccentric & fabulous. We get to spend more time with & learn more about 1 family member in particular, & I loved that. The next to last chapter gave me goosebumps & all the feels. The villain(s) in here are fascinating themselves! What they’re doing, what they want to do, why they want to do it, & how. Written so well! We also meet some new amazing characters in here. One is a member of the family(silver flames!lol)who actually grew on me, & I became quite fond of. Another is a boy who quickly became another of this authors characters who will forever have a place in my heart.
I don’t know if there will be more, but I can see so many places it can go from here, & especially with that last line in the book(that also gave me goosebumps). Some great twists in here as well! I HOPE THERE’S MORE TO COME! Haha This also has great themes of loss, grief, hope, justice, mortality, belonging, family, friendship, etc. Also, how you treat others can sometimes have a lasting effect on their lives you may never even realize.
Shunning people for being different is not ok, & can have harmful effects. Like all of Kenny’s books, this makes you think about who the real monsters in life are. Don’t let appearances fool you.
This is an original, thrilling, suspenseful, gripping, moving, dark, beautiful story. Full of so much heart & determination. I was trying to just read 2 chapters a night to drag it out so I could stay with this story/characters longer. Well, yesterday I picked it up at 50%, & couldn’t put it down. Finished the rest in 1 go lol HIGHLY recommend! Edward Bettison did a STUNNING job yet again on this book. The cover, the end pages, & the illustrations inside are just beautiful.💜
January 28, 2023
3,9⭐️
Une suite un chouia en deçà du premier tome mais un plaisir de retrouver la famille de monstres
5 ans après les évènements du 1er tome on pourrait se demander ce qu’il y a de plus à raconter. Il est vrai que cette suite n’a pas de grande utilité et n’était pas nécessaire mais on s’en fout parce que revoir Rookhaven c’est un peu comme rentrer à la maison. De nouveaux personnages font leur apparition, et un nouvel antagoniste menace la famille de Mirabelle. J’étais un peu triste au départ de voir que certains personnages manquaient à l’appel, pourtant ce sentiment à vite été remplacé en apprenant à connaitre les nouveaux.
On retrouve un certain émoi dans le roman, déjà présent dans le tome 1 même si ici plus atténué. La plume de Pàdraig Kenny est simple mais si touchante et nous livre de très beaux passages grâce à Mirabelle, une héroïne doté d’une grande clairvoyance mais aussi d’une profonde empathie qu’elle partage avec Goret, personnage encore bien mystérieux qui exacerbe les émotions. Le pardon et la compréhension sont les points de mire du récit avec des protagonistes très attachants qui nous bouleversent autant qu’ils nous apaisent.
Je vous recommande vivement cette duologie qui fait chaud au coeur !
Une suite un chouia en deçà du premier tome mais un plaisir de retrouver la famille de monstres
5 ans après les évènements du 1er tome on pourrait se demander ce qu’il y a de plus à raconter. Il est vrai que cette suite n’a pas de grande utilité et n’était pas nécessaire mais on s’en fout parce que revoir Rookhaven c’est un peu comme rentrer à la maison. De nouveaux personnages font leur apparition, et un nouvel antagoniste menace la famille de Mirabelle. J’étais un peu triste au départ de voir que certains personnages manquaient à l’appel, pourtant ce sentiment à vite été remplacé en apprenant à connaitre les nouveaux.
On retrouve un certain émoi dans le roman, déjà présent dans le tome 1 même si ici plus atténué. La plume de Pàdraig Kenny est simple mais si touchante et nous livre de très beaux passages grâce à Mirabelle, une héroïne doté d’une grande clairvoyance mais aussi d’une profonde empathie qu’elle partage avec Goret, personnage encore bien mystérieux qui exacerbe les émotions. Le pardon et la compréhension sont les points de mire du récit avec des protagonistes très attachants qui nous bouleversent autant qu’ils nous apaisent.
Je vous recommande vivement cette duologie qui fait chaud au coeur !
December 14, 2022
For some reason I had totally missed that the matching edition to my first book in the series had already been released. However, a friend pointed me towards it and since I didn't have that much reading time this afternoon I needed something quick and easy. Well, I knew that this book would be both, like most Middle Grades. I was very excited about reading it though. Mostly because I really fell in love with this family of monsters in the first book.
Let me start the review with saying that I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first because the family members making the first book for me were way less present in this tale. I get the impression that all the gifts and fascinating aspects of the family members and house were unused in this book and I really missed that element. Of course they were there and clearly showing support, but I wished we had see more of them and that they had been more actively involved.
I did really love the plot of this book though and especially all the reveals in the finale. A lot of middle grades portray their characters very black and white, but this book actually adds some nuance without undoing the horrible things people do. The book simply explains that sometimes people can do horrible things for very understandable reasons. I think it's a nice conversation starter too when it comes to love and what people would be willing to do for it.
Although the different family members are not as present in this book as they were in the previous book, I really enjoyed getting to know Piglet better and I especially loved how this book once more showed that love can change the world and make it a better place. Just like the previous book this one is also very much about believing in people, having each other's backs and giving others the courage and tools to learn and grow into better people.
If there ever comes a next book, and I assume there will be, I'll happily read it!
Let me start the review with saying that I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first because the family members making the first book for me were way less present in this tale. I get the impression that all the gifts and fascinating aspects of the family members and house were unused in this book and I really missed that element. Of course they were there and clearly showing support, but I wished we had see more of them and that they had been more actively involved.
I did really love the plot of this book though and especially all the reveals in the finale. A lot of middle grades portray their characters very black and white, but this book actually adds some nuance without undoing the horrible things people do. The book simply explains that sometimes people can do horrible things for very understandable reasons. I think it's a nice conversation starter too when it comes to love and what people would be willing to do for it.
Although the different family members are not as present in this book as they were in the previous book, I really enjoyed getting to know Piglet better and I especially loved how this book once more showed that love can change the world and make it a better place. Just like the previous book this one is also very much about believing in people, having each other's backs and giving others the courage and tools to learn and grow into better people.
If there ever comes a next book, and I assume there will be, I'll happily read it!
February 7, 2023
This was just a good as the first Rookhaven! For lovers of TJ Klune (and really....who isn't?) Pádraig Kenny is just as brilliant writing for young readers!
October 15, 2022
Vraiment cette duologie 🤌🏻
January 17, 2022
I absolutely loved the first book in the series, The Monsters of Rookhaven, and couldn't wait to read the sequel. Overall, it was a great story with interesting characters. I sped through it unable to put it down until I came to the end. I think I enjoyed it almost as much as the first with the exception that Mirabelle got on my nerves sometimes. She reminds one a lot of an angry teenager, who can be quite unreasonable at times, lashing out at those she loves. Maybe that was the point, though. Her characters is quite realistic. It's amazing that a book about monsters can make us understand human nature all the more. I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes.
"Fear. It is a thing they all share. Fear of losing someone precious. It makes them hide, makes them betray, makes them last out, makes them hurt themselves."
"Fear. It is a thing they all share. Fear of losing someone precious. It makes them hide, makes them betray, makes them last out, makes them hurt themselves."
August 12, 2022
Definitely lacked the magic and wistfulness of the first book. We get nearly all the original characters and add quite a large cast of new ones, and it reads like "too many to work with", and lacks any real differences or changes or growth in the players. There are some deeper, heavier issues put forth, but they aren't fleshed out enough to give them any depth or emotional impact. As much as it pains me to say it, I hope there isn't a third book. The humans vs half-human/half-monster vs full-monster complication/situation has run its course as a plot device. I don't really see another angle to analyze the relationships that doesn't just rehash already noted points. The cuteness and amazingness of the first book did not carry over to this book at all for me. This read like a MG mystery-family drama with a known cast of monsters and humans that wasn't all that intriguing or fun. The otherworldly darkness and smartness and campiness of the first book didn't carry over either, we just get snarky-ness, flat jokes, mundane relationship drama, and the expected MG tropes (of which I won't elaborate, spoilers and all that). A creative world that used up its gems in book#1, but still not an awful read. Just an atmospheric letdown I wasn't expecting.
August 13, 2023
Definitely an improvement from the first book in terms of actual story and plot - this book has places it wants to go and does a mostly excellent job at conveying the messages and themes it wants to get across in the process. The Shadows is darker than the first entry and the stakes are even higher and more realistic than before, which is exactly what a sequel should do.
This was looking like a new all-time fave middle grade read but a few third act reveals/twists fell a little flat for me, and overall I think some aspects of the world building and a few characters needed some fine-tuning. My biggest grievance is that the premise of the book is centered around an event called "The Configuration", but the actual event is only for a couple of pages and it's never mentioned again and has no real relevance to the story beyond a certain contrivance.
But overall this is a very intelligently written and well executed middle grade novel that reads great for adults as well, very happy I picked this up.
This was looking like a new all-time fave middle grade read but a few third act reveals/twists fell a little flat for me, and overall I think some aspects of the world building and a few characters needed some fine-tuning. My biggest grievance is that the premise of the book is centered around an event called "The Configuration", but the actual event is only for a couple of pages and it's never mentioned again and has no real relevance to the story beyond a certain contrivance.
But overall this is a very intelligently written and well executed middle grade novel that reads great for adults as well, very happy I picked this up.
January 24, 2024
Malgré ma déception initial de ne pas retrouvé Tom et Jem, la rencontre de Billy et sa sœur était suffisante pour comblé leur abscence. L’histoire était toute aussi charmante que pour le premier tome, un très bon roman jeunesse qui me faisait oublier que j’étais peut-être un peu plus vieille que le publique cible principale. Les personnage était bien développé, quoi que un peu cliché, mais quand même très attachant et l’histoire poursuivait bien le premier tout en étant complètement différante. L’univers est intéressant et j’aime le choix artistique d’avoir ajouter quelque petits illustrations à l’ouvrage pour l’illustré. Les images étaient d’ailleurs super belle. C’était ultra rapide à lire et une lecture super plaisante, parfaite pour passé un bon moment sans prise de tête ni trop grosse réflexion.
October 19, 2023
CAWPILE 7.57
Read for Spookoplathon Oct 2023 Crows and Ravens Prompt.
Having read the first in this middle grade duology earlier this month for another prompt I was very eager to pick up the sequel.
Brimming with delicious gothic atmosphere, a strong feeling of family and some stunning illustrations I really enjoyed this sequel which I feel is as strong as the first.
It's also open ended and it would be interesting to see if there would be further books following Mirabelle.
Read for Spookoplathon Oct 2023 Crows and Ravens Prompt.
Having read the first in this middle grade duology earlier this month for another prompt I was very eager to pick up the sequel.
Brimming with delicious gothic atmosphere, a strong feeling of family and some stunning illustrations I really enjoyed this sequel which I feel is as strong as the first.
It's also open ended and it would be interesting to see if there would be further books following Mirabelle.
October 16, 2022
Terminé et j'ai franchement bien aimé. Je suis triste de ne pas avoir retrouvé Jem et son frère et aussi surprise de ce bond dans le temps de 5 ans. Néanmoins, il est aussi addictif que le premier tome et est rempli de révélations. Et les illustrations intérieures sont toujours aussi magnifiques et habillent d'autant plus le texte.
October 8, 2022
Even more magical and dark than the first book! I just cant get enough off the characters, liked the new ones as well as the old :) Dont know if it really qualifies, but I think this was a good start of the spooky season……
We need more Rookhaven ♥️
We need more Rookhaven ♥️
January 5, 2022
Absolutely brilliant!
A very moving, lyrical story that brought so many emotions.
A very moving, lyrical story that brought so many emotions.
January 23, 2022
This book… :) wow
(I wish I was better at expressing my feelings in reviews)
(I wish I was better at expressing my feelings in reviews)
January 20, 2023
Loved it just as much as the first, illustrations were stunning. I need to know if there's going to be a third book.
October 31, 2022
Didn’t love this quite as much as the first one but I still loved being back in this world with these characters. The writing is SO atmospheric and this coupled with the beautiful illustrations make for a fantastic read. Highly recommend this duologie if you’re looking for a dark and creepy middle grade for those long dark nights.
November 11, 2021
It's official. I absolutely adore this series!
After loving The Monsters of Rookhaven earlier this year I was eager to get my hands on this second instalment, and it did not disappoint. This is a wonderful addition to the series and a brilliant follow up to the first story.
Here we find the return of our favourite characters; Mirabelle, Odd, Piglet... and face a new terror, and I absolutely devoured it. I love Padraig Kenny's writing, the characters he has created are such endearing, complex, complicated souls and I just adore them all.
This is a wonderfully gothic and emotional adventure and I will happily, and eagerly, read whatever Padraig Kenny writes next.
Thank you so much to the publisher for the arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
5 perfect stars
After loving The Monsters of Rookhaven earlier this year I was eager to get my hands on this second instalment, and it did not disappoint. This is a wonderful addition to the series and a brilliant follow up to the first story.
Here we find the return of our favourite characters; Mirabelle, Odd, Piglet... and face a new terror, and I absolutely devoured it. I love Padraig Kenny's writing, the characters he has created are such endearing, complex, complicated souls and I just adore them all.
This is a wonderfully gothic and emotional adventure and I will happily, and eagerly, read whatever Padraig Kenny writes next.
Thank you so much to the publisher for the arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
5 perfect stars
March 8, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Shadows of Rookhaven is the second Monsters of Rookhaven book by Pádraig Kenny. Released 11th Oct 2022 by Macmillan on their Henry Holt imprint, it's 336 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. Paperback format due out in 3rd quarter 2023 from the publisher. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is an exciting and well written fantasy adventure story for middle grades (10-14 years, Lexile 660L). Following on from the events in book 1, Maribelle and her raven friend Lucius are helping the family of Rookhaven monsters with the planning of the once-per-century Great Configuration. Fate has other plans in store, when a young half-human boy stumbles into their midst.
This is very much an action driven plot with interesting and quirky characters (mostly monsters who are generally ok, and humans who are mostly monstrous). It's a fast moving and engaging story and I never found my interest waning or found myself yanked out of the story by clunky dialogue at any point.
There's a distinctly creepy gothic vibe with both the narrative and the characters. Although it's not at all derivative and the writing styles are very different, in some ways it recalls Bradbury's "Family" stories. The themes of found family, honor, love, charity, kindness, what it means to be a true friend, and the perennial struggles of good vs. evil.
The chapter heading and internal page illustrations by Annie Carbonneau-Leclerc are simple and effective and add a lot to the read.
Fans of TJ Klune and Diana Wynne Jones will likely enjoy this series as well. The book works reasonably well as a standalone, but readers who choose to read them out of order will find a large number of spoilers in this installment for occurrences in book 1.
Four stars. Enjoyable. It would make a good choice for public or school library acquisition as well as home use.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Shadows of Rookhaven is the second Monsters of Rookhaven book by Pádraig Kenny. Released 11th Oct 2022 by Macmillan on their Henry Holt imprint, it's 336 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. Paperback format due out in 3rd quarter 2023 from the publisher. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is an exciting and well written fantasy adventure story for middle grades (10-14 years, Lexile 660L). Following on from the events in book 1, Maribelle and her raven friend Lucius are helping the family of Rookhaven monsters with the planning of the once-per-century Great Configuration. Fate has other plans in store, when a young half-human boy stumbles into their midst.
This is very much an action driven plot with interesting and quirky characters (mostly monsters who are generally ok, and humans who are mostly monstrous). It's a fast moving and engaging story and I never found my interest waning or found myself yanked out of the story by clunky dialogue at any point.
There's a distinctly creepy gothic vibe with both the narrative and the characters. Although it's not at all derivative and the writing styles are very different, in some ways it recalls Bradbury's "Family" stories. The themes of found family, honor, love, charity, kindness, what it means to be a true friend, and the perennial struggles of good vs. evil.
The chapter heading and internal page illustrations by Annie Carbonneau-Leclerc are simple and effective and add a lot to the read.
Fans of TJ Klune and Diana Wynne Jones will likely enjoy this series as well. The book works reasonably well as a standalone, but readers who choose to read them out of order will find a large number of spoilers in this installment for occurrences in book 1.
Four stars. Enjoyable. It would make a good choice for public or school library acquisition as well as home use.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
October 6, 2022
Chronique de Diana :
https://followthereader2016.wordpress...
Le premier tome avait été une très agréable surprise et ce second est encore meilleur, c’est une série à lire absolument pour les thèmes abordés et leur traitement.
Billy n’est pas libre des ses choix et on va lui donner l’ordre de rejoindre Rookhaven pour accomplir une mission. Si ce dernier refuse, celle qu’il considère comme sa sœur sera tuée. Billy est un illégitime, un métissage entre un humain et un monstre mais il n’a pas encore trouvé sa place.
Il arrive à Rookhaven et enfin trouve un lieu qui pourrait lui convenir mais le secret qu’il garde le pousse à se sentir mal alors que pour la première fois de sa vie il est entouré par des êtres qui le comprennent. Il arrive aussi au moment de la grande configuration, un rassemblement de monstres à travers le monde qui se retrouvent sur place pour une cérémonie particulière. Je vous laisse découvrir quel objectif doit atteindre notre jeune héros.
Ce qui est particulièrement intéressant ici c’est les thématiques comme je vous le disais. On parle différence, acceptation, racisme mais surtout amitié, famille de cœur, solidarité. C’est vraiment intéressant car l’auteur arrive à aborder cet ensemble dans un monde rempli de monstre en apparence alors que ceux au physique les plus rebutants sont souvent ceux à l’ouverture d’esprit plus importante.
Billy peut se transformer en partie comme un garou et ses émotions décuplent ses capacités. Mirabelle, elle parle aux corbeaux et les guident. Ils vont évoluer et grandir rapidement pour survivre. Ce qui est particulièrement remarquable c’est que tous les personnages sont gris et pourtant on s’attache à eux car ils sont tout en nuances.
L’auteur a une plume très agréable et l’on a envie de tourner les pages sans tarder. On termine ce nouveau tome rempli de tolérance car c’est bien ce qu’il faut retenir ici.
L’intrigue est une fois de plus addictive, bien construite et le rendu avec les illustrations permet une immersion dans l’univers dès le début en plus des points de vue multiples.
Une lecture parfaite qui ravira les jeunes lecteurs et les moins jeunes.
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Le premier tome avait été une très agréable surprise et ce second est encore meilleur, c’est une série à lire absolument pour les thèmes abordés et leur traitement.
Billy n’est pas libre des ses choix et on va lui donner l’ordre de rejoindre Rookhaven pour accomplir une mission. Si ce dernier refuse, celle qu’il considère comme sa sœur sera tuée. Billy est un illégitime, un métissage entre un humain et un monstre mais il n’a pas encore trouvé sa place.
Il arrive à Rookhaven et enfin trouve un lieu qui pourrait lui convenir mais le secret qu’il garde le pousse à se sentir mal alors que pour la première fois de sa vie il est entouré par des êtres qui le comprennent. Il arrive aussi au moment de la grande configuration, un rassemblement de monstres à travers le monde qui se retrouvent sur place pour une cérémonie particulière. Je vous laisse découvrir quel objectif doit atteindre notre jeune héros.
Ce qui est particulièrement intéressant ici c’est les thématiques comme je vous le disais. On parle différence, acceptation, racisme mais surtout amitié, famille de cœur, solidarité. C’est vraiment intéressant car l’auteur arrive à aborder cet ensemble dans un monde rempli de monstre en apparence alors que ceux au physique les plus rebutants sont souvent ceux à l’ouverture d’esprit plus importante.
Billy peut se transformer en partie comme un garou et ses émotions décuplent ses capacités. Mirabelle, elle parle aux corbeaux et les guident. Ils vont évoluer et grandir rapidement pour survivre. Ce qui est particulièrement remarquable c’est que tous les personnages sont gris et pourtant on s’attache à eux car ils sont tout en nuances.
L’auteur a une plume très agréable et l’on a envie de tourner les pages sans tarder. On termine ce nouveau tome rempli de tolérance car c’est bien ce qu’il faut retenir ici.
L’intrigue est une fois de plus addictive, bien construite et le rendu avec les illustrations permet une immersion dans l’univers dès le début en plus des points de vue multiples.
Une lecture parfaite qui ravira les jeunes lecteurs et les moins jeunes.
August 16, 2023
" 'An old friend of mine used to say to me that it's the temporariness of things that makes them precious.' "
Status: read
Edition: hardcover
My Reading Dates: 8 August - 11 August
Genre: Supernatural/Fantasy (?), Adventure, Junior Fiction
Pages: 352
Pace: medium
POV: Multiple - third person - past tense
My Thoughts
This was an unexpected read, seeing as I read the first book eons ago. I saw it in the library, and thought 'why not?'.
Maybe it was because I was not the intended audience, but the plot wasn't that great. It was a bit over the place, and it didn't have proper structure. Things seemed to randomly happen (I know they were probably planned, but it was written in that way).
"Fear. It is a thing they all share. Fear of losing someone precious. It makes them hide, makes them betray, makes them last out, makes them hurt themselves."
My main problem with this book is Billy. He got accepted so freaking quick by Mirabelle. She apparently wasn't taught not to trust strangers. Also the fact that he agreed so quickly as well. He could have fought but apparently his will was so small, he didn't even try.
Piglet was 100% my favourite character. His chapters might be my favourite. It is so simple and protrays his views as unique and magical.
Mirabelle has turned badass, but mostly acts like a teen. But I don't really mind. There are too many 'weak' female MCs nowadays.
Our villains are morally grey characters, but for once I just felt like the author was unsure whether to make them bad or good. So I have mixed feelings on them.
Overall, if I didn't pick up the book, it wouldn't have made much of a difference to me. It wasn't anything especially good nor bad.
↝4 stars
December 18, 2022
When I requested this I hadn’t realised that another book came before and so I went and read that first. I’m glad that I did. It’s entirely possible to read this without reading the first book but I think them some of the references in the story would be lost..
This is a really difficult plot to encapsulate because the characters and story are so utterly unique and original that they defy conventional explanation. Suffice to say that this is a world of monsters, a world of beings who do not fit into the usual labels. Rookhaven is filling up with visitors who have come to celebrate the Great Configuration. It is an event which only happens every hundred years so there is huge excitement and Mirabelle is looking forward to her first experience. Amongst the visitors is a being on another mission; a mission which threatens the house of Rookhaven.
This author has the most amazing imagination and I think he writes incredible middle grade fiction full of the fascinating characters and imagery ..What I think makes him unique is the darkness and edginess which I think children will absolutely adore. It’s also this wonderful exploration of who we are, how we are labeled and how we fit in. Even as an adult reader I don’t think that I have understood everything that this book has to offer and I think this is a book you can read again and again..
I bought my own copy of both books ..the illustrations are absolutely sublime.
With many thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan Children's books for my digital copy
copy.
This is a really difficult plot to encapsulate because the characters and story are so utterly unique and original that they defy conventional explanation. Suffice to say that this is a world of monsters, a world of beings who do not fit into the usual labels. Rookhaven is filling up with visitors who have come to celebrate the Great Configuration. It is an event which only happens every hundred years so there is huge excitement and Mirabelle is looking forward to her first experience. Amongst the visitors is a being on another mission; a mission which threatens the house of Rookhaven.
This author has the most amazing imagination and I think he writes incredible middle grade fiction full of the fascinating characters and imagery ..What I think makes him unique is the darkness and edginess which I think children will absolutely adore. It’s also this wonderful exploration of who we are, how we are labeled and how we fit in. Even as an adult reader I don’t think that I have understood everything that this book has to offer and I think this is a book you can read again and again..
I bought my own copy of both books ..the illustrations are absolutely sublime.
With many thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan Children's books for my digital copy
copy.
April 2, 2022
It was quite good, and we'll crafted, but it just didn't click so much for me.
I appreciate that Pádraig is a great writer, and this book is truly written well with originality.
I did however feel that it was occasionally too stereotypical - come on, the stubborn, strong, often annoying, awesome female lead character of Mirabelle (Coraline, Agatha Raisin, much?); the awkward but secretly courageous saviours, Odd and Billy (the henchmen who are looked down upon, frowned upon, or even hated until the end reveals their true characters); the evil villain who was only ever actually sacrificing their dignity to protect those they love, Courtney; and the whimsically childish but also the strongest and most potent of them all Piglet (you know, whenever there is the youngest and sweetest and smallest character ever but they actually have a really deep voice, or powers "never seen before!", or can code fields of computers in matter of seconds).
Alright that doesn't seem too archetypal but while reading it it did. But it has enough non-stereotypical zing to the characters that I liked it.
I will say that when Mirabelle found out that Thorne was her father, all the sassy comments just never got old.
Kenny obviously likes the words "fizz-," "ruefully," and ideations on Fear and Fatherlyness very much.
After all, this book was fully about a sense of family, of trust, of love. It was remarkable, but just didn't become some sort of revelation for me. I hope you enjoy it.
I appreciate that Pádraig is a great writer, and this book is truly written well with originality.
I did however feel that it was occasionally too stereotypical - come on, the stubborn, strong, often annoying, awesome female lead character of Mirabelle (Coraline, Agatha Raisin, much?); the awkward but secretly courageous saviours, Odd and Billy (the henchmen who are looked down upon, frowned upon, or even hated until the end reveals their true characters); the evil villain who was only ever actually sacrificing their dignity to protect those they love, Courtney; and the whimsically childish but also the strongest and most potent of them all Piglet (you know, whenever there is the youngest and sweetest and smallest character ever but they actually have a really deep voice, or powers "never seen before!", or can code fields of computers in matter of seconds).
Alright that doesn't seem too archetypal but while reading it it did. But it has enough non-stereotypical zing to the characters that I liked it.
I will say that when Mirabelle found out that Thorne was her father, all the sassy comments just never got old.
Kenny obviously likes the words "fizz-," "ruefully," and ideations on Fear and Fatherlyness very much.
After all, this book was fully about a sense of family, of trust, of love. It was remarkable, but just didn't become some sort of revelation for me. I hope you enjoy it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2021
I think I have found a new series I love! After reading the first one, I really loved the atmosphere of the stories and the characters. This one is no different. We see the main character, Mirabella meet a boy called Billy who has been tasked to do something awful to the family in order to save her sister Meg. But when he arrives at the house or Rookhaven and meets the ever lovely Mirabella. Although this story doesn’t include Jem, there are more than enough lovely characters to meet on this adventure.
This story Mirabella learns more about who she is as she has to save all that is dear to her. I love that we hear so much more from Piglet in this story, he is definitely a favourite of mine. I love how the different view points are laid out on the page and the beautiful illustrations. The perfect spooky, not so spooky book with endearing characters and an engaging story line. I hope we can hear more about the Family at Rookhaven!
Received from Netgalley for an honest review
This story Mirabella learns more about who she is as she has to save all that is dear to her. I love that we hear so much more from Piglet in this story, he is definitely a favourite of mine. I love how the different view points are laid out on the page and the beautiful illustrations. The perfect spooky, not so spooky book with endearing characters and an engaging story line. I hope we can hear more about the Family at Rookhaven!
Received from Netgalley for an honest review
October 17, 2022
Pádraig Kenny brings readers back into the world of Rookhaven and England after The Blitz as Mirabelle and her family prepare for the Great Configuration... but there is a new threat to the family that puts everyone at risk.
THE SHADOWS OF ROOKHAVEN builds upon the world Kenny created in THE MONSTERS OF ROOKHAVEN and is a satisfying conclusion for this duology. I loved that Kenny gave us more of the story through the eyes of Odd and Piglet - and Piglet's arc is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. It was great to see Mirabelle older and growing into her own within the family and learning more of her history. I thought the new characters added to the story and the conflict was interesting. The ending is both satisfying and made me want the story to continue.
This is a great middle grade series to read for spooky season!
Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, and Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) in exchange for an honest review.
THE SHADOWS OF ROOKHAVEN builds upon the world Kenny created in THE MONSTERS OF ROOKHAVEN and is a satisfying conclusion for this duology. I loved that Kenny gave us more of the story through the eyes of Odd and Piglet - and Piglet's arc is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. It was great to see Mirabelle older and growing into her own within the family and learning more of her history. I thought the new characters added to the story and the conflict was interesting. The ending is both satisfying and made me want the story to continue.
This is a great middle grade series to read for spooky season!
Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, and Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2023
3,5⭐️
J’ai eu énormément de plaisir de retrouver cette found family 🤍
C’est un tome qui n’était pas nécessaire a première vue, mais on ne va pas s’en plaindre étant donné que cette lecture réchauffe les cœurs.
J’aime toujours autant tous les personnages, Mirabelle est toujours aussi vaillante, et Goret 🫶🏼🫶🏼 vraiment mon personnage fav dans cette saga!
On apprend des choses sur le passé de Mirabelle, et j’entrais contente que ce soit abordé!
Il est beaucoup mentionné la notion du pardon, et ça fait réfléchir!
Bref, j’ai beaucoup aimé ma lecture, une saga doudou qui fait du bien quand on voit que des personnages forment une aussi belle famille et se soutiennent quoiqu’il.
J’ai eu énormément de plaisir de retrouver cette found family 🤍
C’est un tome qui n’était pas nécessaire a première vue, mais on ne va pas s’en plaindre étant donné que cette lecture réchauffe les cœurs.
J’aime toujours autant tous les personnages, Mirabelle est toujours aussi vaillante, et Goret 🫶🏼🫶🏼 vraiment mon personnage fav dans cette saga!
On apprend des choses sur le passé de Mirabelle, et j’entrais contente que ce soit abordé!
Il est beaucoup mentionné la notion du pardon, et ça fait réfléchir!
Bref, j’ai beaucoup aimé ma lecture, une saga doudou qui fait du bien quand on voit que des personnages forment une aussi belle famille et se soutiennent quoiqu’il.
September 26, 2021
Amazing!! The Shadows of Rookhaven by Padraig Kenny is just as wonderfully written as the first book The Monsters of Rookhaven.
We again follow Mirabelle as she and her Family get ready for The Great Configuration, an event which happens every 100 years. We meet other monsters from other houses who all come to take part in the Configuration, but something goes horribly wrong.
The Shadows of Rookhaven is an amazing story about family, friendship and forgiveness. Perfect for any reader who likes mystery, action and magic.
We again follow Mirabelle as she and her Family get ready for The Great Configuration, an event which happens every 100 years. We meet other monsters from other houses who all come to take part in the Configuration, but something goes horribly wrong.
The Shadows of Rookhaven is an amazing story about family, friendship and forgiveness. Perfect for any reader who likes mystery, action and magic.
October 28, 2021
I think this is very quickly becoming a new favourite series of mine!
The first one really drew me in and made me love the inhabitants of Rookhaven and all their quirks and oddities, and this one has just made me love them even more. Even the new characters of Billy and Winnthropp, I found I really enjoyed reading the chapters from their perspective. Plus also, Piglet my love.
This is such a unique world that’s been created and it’s such a wonderfully weird place to be, I can wait to see where it goes next.
The first one really drew me in and made me love the inhabitants of Rookhaven and all their quirks and oddities, and this one has just made me love them even more. Even the new characters of Billy and Winnthropp, I found I really enjoyed reading the chapters from their perspective. Plus also, Piglet my love.
This is such a unique world that’s been created and it’s such a wonderfully weird place to be, I can wait to see where it goes next.
March 3, 2022
What a crazy time to be alive. I found the theme of family and unity to be especially prevalent in the world we're living in right now. I love Piglet. I love what Piglet represents - something that is feared, misunderstood but has the possibility to bring so much light to the world. I love that Mirabelle sees Piglet and loves Piglet for who he is and her encouragement frees him to be able to be who he's meant to be. These books are interesting because they are a little spooky but they have so so do much heart. I love them.
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