The Prophecy of Shadows

Elementals #1

by Michelle Madow

MAGIC. ROMANCE. ADVENTURE.




Experience the *now completed* bestselling series that fans of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson are raving about.




"A must read!"

--USA Today




* A Top 100 Amazon Bestseller in the entire Kindle Store *




Nicole Cassidy is nervous about her first day at a new school. She's worried about her outfit. And her hair. She's imagined the teacher introducing her to the class, only to hear snickers around the room.




It turns out, things at her new school are going to be a lot harder than that. At Kinsley High, there's something new on the curriculum: magic.




It's not just the other students who have magic. So does Nicole.




She's a witch.




Not only is she a witch, she's descended from Greek gods.




It's almost too much for her to process. Luckily, one of her new classmates is more than happy to take her under his wing to teach her how to use her magic. His name is Blake, and he's sort of her type: mysterious, possibly trouble.




The connection between Nicole and Blake is instant. There's just one problem: Blake has a girlfriend, Danielle. Rumor has it she harbors a penchant for using dark magic. Especially on anyone who gets near Blake.




As Nicole tries to navigate her mysterious new school--and stay out of Danielle's crosshairs--a new threat emerges: the Olympian Comet. The comet hasn't been seen for thousands of years, and it's about to change everything.




With the Olympian Comet burning bright across the night sky, Nicole's sleepy town is turned upside down. Ancient monsters emerge, wreaking havoc on everyone and everything.




An ancient prophecy may hold the key to stopping the monsters and surviving the comet, but time is running out. As Nicole and her new classmates race to unravel the clues left by the prophecy, they soon learn that it's not just their town that's in danger. The Olympian Comet may be far more deadly than they ever imagined.




Start the adventure today and escape into this world of magic, romance, and mythology!




This five book series has been a perennial bestseller since its publication and has garnered over 2,000 reviews on Amazon, 10,000+ ratings on Goodreads, and millions of pages read in Kindle Unlimited.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Mythology, Paranormal, Magic, Romance, Witches

350 pages, Hardcover

First published January 26, 2016

About the author

Michelle Madow is a USA Today bestselling author of fantasy romance novels filled with forbidden love, elemental magic, and epic twists that readers never see coming. With over three million books sold and translations in multiple languages, her addictive stories have captured hearts around the world.

She wrote her first novel in college and never looked back. Now, with 50 books published (and counting), she spends her time dreaming up magical realms and devastating romances that keep readers hooked from page one.

Originally from Maryland, she spent nearly two decades in Florida before a brief chapter in NYC—and now she’s back in the Sunshine State, where golden days fuel her creativity and moonlight sparks her imagination.

When she’s not writing, she’s likely getting lost in the magical world of reading, plotting her next big twist, or reminiscing about her travels to all seven continents.

Reviews

[Cece ❀Rants, Raves &Reviews❀ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Warning: this book maxed out my bullshit meter so the sass is strong in this one:

So lets get into the general plot which is literally summarized in this one single sentence:

“A week into a new school, and not only was I a freaky super-witch who made a glass explode in class, but I also had extra homework.”

Darn that fucking homework, gettting in the way of supermagical practice since 2012.

Nicole our main character seemed pretty chill in the beginning but quickly became just another special snowflake. Also looking back, there literally wasn't any strong traits or characteristics for her personality... just the magical abilities that kept popping up out of the snow like daisies



And now our plot:
Five characters represent the five elements/colors that witches use to focus on certain characteristics. I was soooo excited for the idea and mixture of witchcraft and GREEK GODS YALL ... but ... the execution of the idea was ... poor

Everything felt described as underwhelming and borderline childish. Like our MC gets a little nervous about magic existing but then just totally accepts it in a single day cuz she can FEEL colors. That's right. Feel a color, like some rainbow fairy instead of the badass witch vibes they originally were trying for


And of course the petty mean girl comments were fuelinggggg my anger:

“You’re more powerful than her. You’re better at tennis. Your element—the aether—is the center of all of ours. ”

BAHAHA the fact that another girl is better at tennis has this bitch Danielle so wound up that she starts cursing Nicole's motherfucking tennis racket just to mess her shit up. Oh mah gawd this is fake, this is goddamn fake.

So enter the bitch. Danielle is a lowkey a mean girl stereotype but I gotta be honest... I actually kinda liked Danielle the best because she actually had a personality...the other ones kinda blended together in just blah and bland

“The origin of your name is Greek,” she said. “It means ‘victory of the people.’”
It was a strange thing to say, but I nodded, assuming she was just a quirky older lady. “

Notes from when I first read this scene: Crazy old lady runs a diner and has important knowledge to impart. Probably a goddess in disguise. Oh mah fucking god. Nicole's MIA dad is actually a god! This makes her not only a witch of spirit...but a demigod. Oh hell no what a cop-out! If this is real i swear to god, i swear to god. and ...i was right

“We go tomorrow morning. Let’s meet back here at ten. The sun will be high in the sky, and we’ll need some breakfast before our perilous journey."

So let me get this straight... Your high school homeroom teacher gives you a fucking photocopy of an ancient prophecy. And you SHARE with some CREEPY LADY at a DINER and come up with the brilliant plan of just walking around a street heading east. But you wanna stop and get breakfast first Now that's great. That's just bloody brilliant teenage logic

Our other two characters were Chris and Kate, future weird cute couple

“Should we still do nothing?” Chris asked, his voice shaking. “Since it’s working so well.””

Okay I understand Chris is suppose to be the dorky cutesy guy but duuuude there's NO TIME WHEN THEY ACTUALLY IN DANGER and it just got annoying at this point. Oh and of course Kate was just the cutesty side friend with all the answers!

“I guess we’re going northwest,” he said. With that, he grabbed the box and led the way out of the woods.”

They are literally going on a friggen scavenger hunt around their mopey little town. Are you telling me that the motherfucking gods of olympus just put little tricks around a 50-mile radius just to watch them dance around like little monkeys???? Shouldn't it be a little more worldly or culture-based pleaseeeee some authenticity?

“What exactly was it that you were looking for?” she asked.
“Some sort of jar,” Danielle replied.”

BEWAREEEE THE JAR WHISPERER!! IT CALLSSSSS TO HER BECAUSE THEY ARE BOTH EMPTY AND A WASTE OF SPACE!!!

“Creepy woods emitting weird vibes. Fantastic. It couldn’t be worse than a cemetery, but Kate loved nature. If the woods made her jumpy, they had to be pretty bad.”

Oh but of courseeee, there's some Creepy ass forest on the edge of town. Dear god. You have got to be shitting me. It just got to cliche and at this point only mocking the book gave me any pleasure.

“I’ll see you in Hades. And once Typhon rises, I’ll be sure he gives you a one-way ticket to Tartarus.”

OH MAH FUCKING GOD I AUALLY FUCKING CALLED IT GODFUCKIHNGDAMNITIT THSE MOTHERFUCKERS so yeah special snowflake continues.

“When I healed, I needed white energy. So when I destroyed, it made sense to use the opposite. Black energy.”

You mean the thing we learned about in the first chapter that someone said to never ever ever do? Oh okay that magic? Gotcha, just checking.

“I’m sure he’s just very busy. And now there’s a war going on. Perhaps he’ll speak with you sometime in the future.” The smug smile remained on Danielle’s face. “Doubtful,” she said.”

Okay seriously Danielle, what the fuck is wrong with you? You are so petty that after finding out Nicole is a demigod and way more powerful than ur sorryass your first reaction is 'HA YOU HAVE DADDY ISSUES' I mean come on !

“So this Book of Shadows is supposed to help us save the world, and it’s empty,” Chris said. “How’s that helpful?”

Awwwww our backyard scavenger hunt was all for nothing? Bummer man

“Yes.” Darius nodded. “What you did was very brave. But do me a favor and don’t tell anyone yet.”

Hey kids, do me a solid just a little fav: after putting yourself in danger because I vaguely hinted at it, don't tell anyone! Okay? cool thanks.


Okay I dunno maybe I was just absolutely in the wrong mood but this book just rubbed me the wrong way and I honestly got really frustrated because it could've been great Like I could absolutely see magic being based on colors ! but then they didn't fully develop it and the witches and greek gods mix was left with a lotta holes ON TOP OF there being almost every YA cliche from mean girl to cheating love triangle to quirky know-it-all BFF. Maybe the series will get better? I dunno. *frowny face*

[Ben Alderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally loved this book. It is my perfect read. A mixture of WITCHCRAFT and GREEK BLOODY GODS!

So firstly let me tell you how IN LOVE i am with the idea and theology behind the magic. I LOVE magic with limitations and the witches in this world HAVE limitations. Their magic is 'mental' which means they have no physical control over anything.......... until a group meet under the comet and it changes them for ever.....

Elementals follows a group of witches who unlock the abilities to control one of the FIVE elements... WATER, FIRE, AIR, EARTH AND AETHER!

Please please read this novel when it comes out so i can TALK TO HUMANS ABOUT IT...

Something awesome about this series is that the author will be pushing all the novels for the series out really quickly.. the second book comes out in APRIL and this one is not out yet... so get on this band wagon with me please........

A perfect mixture of magic and mythology. An entrancing story of trust, friendship and well naughty boys. WITCHES are not the only thing walking the earth.

[Katerina · Rating 4 out of 5]

“In the beginning of the new year,the Olympian Comet will cross the sky and the wall will grow thin.Five representing each part of the world will work together to restore the balance,the power of the Aether igniting them.The Journey will lead them East on the path to the Shadows,which will serve as their guide.”

(I sincerely hope that this prophecy will not be fulfilled,because I'd hate to spend the first day of 2016 hiding from Cronus or fighting harpies)

What's the story?
Starting over sucks,and Nicole isn't thrilled to attend a new school in a new city being the new kid,but then she enters her first class and finds out that the professor is actually teaching Magic 101 and that she's a descendant of greek gods who can manipulate energy.How cool is that?Of course,when a Comet alters her powers and a prophecy about Titans and mythological creatures is revealed and she sets off a scavenger hunt among with the rest of The Elementals gang(her crush,his oh so bitchy girlfriend and two other friends) and she's nearly eaten alive,her powers seem more like a burden and less than a gift.But war is coming,and maybe 5 teenage witches is all that stands between life and death.

“We're witches.You are,too.And regarding your question,we don't use wands because real witches don't need them.That's an urban legend created by humans who felt safer believing that they couldn't ne harmed if there was no wand in sight.”

Oops.

Cheers
-Greek mythology.Battles between Olympians and Titans,monsters that escape the Underworld and lectures on greek history?Count me in!I also kept wondering whether DNA tests can verify your olympian heritage so I can finally have proof that I'm Athena's descendant and get accepted to Camp Half-Blood. what do you mean it's another series?
-Magic.Magic in the form of colourful energy,each colour having different uses.Elemental magic with spirit as the key to unlock the prophecies.And a comet/amplifier.Need I say more?
-The forbidden fruit tastes the sweetest.Forbidden romance is one way or another more intriguing,and The Prophecy of Shadows was no exception.Nicole falls for a guy who is unavailable,which results in tension,sneaking out,and inevitable heartbreak.Nicole was stronger than I gave her credit for,because she knew that morality doesn't apply only when it's convenient.Even when the forbidden fruit is an ubber delicious Blake.*dreamy sigh*
-The scavenger hunt.Ok I admit the riddles were not that difficult to solve but following the clues and not knowing whether they'd face a hydra or a hellhound in the next step and exploring creepy forests were a great way to add mystery and suspense to the story.

Jeers
-The clichés.I know that in books about prophecies it's inevitable,but man! I could predict what was about to come miles away,and it took the MCs awfully lot of time to figure things out.Also,new girl falling for the gorgeous guy who's dating an equally gorgeous girl and all of them happen to be witches and share a magic bond that will determine the fate of the world?Secret Circle anyone?

-I got the feeling that some storylines and ideas were underdeveloped and some things happened way too fast,like the insta-love between Nicole and Blake or how easily Nicole called everyone her friend even though she knew them for about a week.Thankfully,as the story progressed the writing became better so technically this is a half-jeers.

So why did I give it 4 stars?
Even though The Prophecy of Shadows narrated a story I've read before,I still enjoyed it a lot and felt compulsed to turn the pages until I finished it.I will definitely read the next instalment of the series and who knows,perhaps until then I will be ready to join the fight against the Titans and keep Blake to myself!


*ARC gererously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

[Donita · Rating 2 out of 5]

"I don't know how to explain it, but I've felt connected to you since I saw you walk into homeroom on your first day."

Why do I think I've read this before? Oh, because of course, I've read it before! A typical paranormal read where a new girl in town caught the eye of a hot guy in school who's dating an equally gorgeous girl, but no problem cause there's this thing called, cheating.

No, I'm not angry or even disappointed anymore, I'm more sad. This is the 2nd book of Michelle that I've read so I was kind of expecting some of the things I didn't like in this book, but I'm just sad because I badly wanted to like this book, I really really liked the author you see. I guess sometimes there just things that wouldn't work out.

Elementals reminds me why Remembrance was a disaster for me. From the unrelatable characters to the disaster romance included in the book, include the lack of world building.. it's just won't work for me.

It actually started out good, great even. Nicole Cassidy was swept in right into the world of the witches - people who apparently are a descendant from the bloodlines of the Gods. Yep, they called themselves witches, don't ask me. I liked the idea of powers that was represented by colors. Like Yellow energy, to help with focus, blue to keep you calm, red to boost your confidence etc. It's refreshing. Then everything went downhill when our very special MC met Blake.

"My heart was pounding so hard that he could probably hear it, and even thoughI'd wanted to be alone with Blake since I first saw him, I needed to control whatever I was feeling for him. Nothing could happen between us. At least not right now, while he had a girlfriend."

I didn't read this book because I wanted to read more drama and cheesiness. I wanted to read this because I'm a sucker in both paranormal, fantasy and GREEK Gods story. Seeing that this books target audience were the fans of Percy Jackson Series, I'm definitely in, but this book should have gotten a thing or two about romance in that book as well. Shouldn't hurt to do so. I'm just probably making this a big deal but I wholeheartedly believe that Nicole is being a bit obsessive with Blake, and reading things like that in a book tend to get really really ugly and annoying.

I already said it, but I'll say it again, the idea of the story and plot was good and eye catching, at least for its target audience, but the world building are not good enough for me. It leaves a lot of questions because the story tried to move only the sequence of events further leaving little details to the world itself. Like, It is illegal for underage people to use their power, or else they'll risk having their powers purged completely. Seriously, how would the elders know know or detect when someone's using their powers illegally? I also find it funny how the school is operating a all magic classes for witches inside a perfectly school for human/perfectly normal people. A little details wouldn't hurt I guess.

Don't even get me started on how Nicole gets the hang of everything in only a matter of 1 or 2 weeks. Sure, she's powerful and everything being the main character of the story, but really, there leaves a little growth for her.

"I had no idea how I knew that- but I knew I was right."

Well aren't you just special?

Summary of my review:

Bad News: I didn't like this book as much as I thought I would. Unrelatable characters, too much romance for my liking, not much of a world building.

Good News: The book was fast paced making it a quick read for me, I guess one of the reason why world building wasn't given much chance to shine. I did enjoy the adventures and quest along the way. Also, it's good that the copy I have contains sneak peak for the 2nd book, The Blood of the Hydra, because I'm liking it. It gives the hint that book 2 is still going to be a fast paced read, I no longer cared if there wouldn't be much of a world building there, I just want both Nicole and Blake to calm their fvcking hormones and everything would be perfect for me.

Despite my initial disappointment in this book, I'm still not ready to give up on this series and I'll still definitely read the 2nd book.

[Cora Tea Party Princess · Rating 3 out of 5]

5 Words: Witches, elements, friendship, teamwork, family.

After a slightly shaky start, this book really picked up.

I'm very hit or miss with this author, there are books in the past I have hated, books that are middling, but I still keep coming back.

At first, I didn't really like Nicole. As wonderful as she was supposed to be, she came across as quite nasty. I couldn't click with her, I rolled my eyes a lot. I just wished she could have been a little nicer, taken the high road. It would have made me like her a little more likeable.

So it's a good thing I enjoyed the story itself. Once I got into it, I found that I couldn't put it down. I loved the pace and how it kept building and building.

If you've ever read my reviews of similar Greek-Myth-God inspired stories then you'll know that they usually don't gel well with me. But this one? I loved it. There was a logic behind it all, it made sense. I could almost believe it. I was more than pleasantly surprised.

I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes and I am taking part in the blog tour.

[Sarah Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

“We’re witches. You are too.”

This was a YA paranormal story about a group of teens with supernatural powers.

Nicole was an okay character and she went out of her way to help her friends. She also had integrity, and stood up for what she believed in too.

The storyline in this was about Nicole starting at a new school, and discovering that she was a witch with supernatural powers. We then had an event which increased these powers even more, and led Nicole and her friends on a bit of a scavenger hunt, and we also had a love triangle popping up which really reminded me of The Secret Circle. This was an enjoyable read, but I did find it a bit cheesy at times, and there was quite a bit of info dumping about Greek Mythology as well.

The ending to this was okay, but it was clear that the story would continue in future books.



6.5 out of 10

[₊ ˚ ale ࿓ ♡ ⋆｡˚ · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took me a while, and because I was really busy with college and work, lol.

This was decent. The concept was interesting, I gotta admit it. You know what ruined it for me? The fact that everything was happening so fast. Like omg, girl, give me a break. If you can't process this quickly, imagine me trying to get a hold on everything is happening. My head was spinning.

Also, insta love is not for me. It kills the entire vibe for me. However, it wasn't as bad as I thought. I might read the second book if I ever remember that I read this, lmao.

[Booknut 101 · Rating 4 out of 5]

**To view the original review with extra content click here!**

In The Prophecy of Shadows Nicole Cassidy and a few of her friends (and not-so friends!) are gifted powers over the elements. Knowing that, I thought the book was going to go one of two ways: either this would be a Percy Jackson-esque squad or we'd be steering into X-Men territory both of which are awesome directions to go in btw.

But Michelle Madow surprised me and created a magic system that had unique elements of its own...whilst being just as badass as the aforementioned franchises! Three cheers for girl power because Nicole kicked some serious bad-guy ass in this book, people.


Book cover: Did this cover give me a serious case of hair envy? You guys have no idea how much! I'm pretty sure I'd do almost anything in order to achieve the ethereal locks the cover model is rocking.

Plus her hair glitters. Or, more correctly, it creates glittery sparkles that float around her like a shimmering halo of awesomeness. I wish my hair was a glitter machine but nope I'm stuck with regular brown strands that refuse to emit even a lousy confetti particle.

Not only is the cover model's makeup game on point, but her eyes have me all kinds of hypnotised. They're doing that Dominic Sherwood-esque two colours trick plus they're framed by the longest lashes known to man.

I'm pretty sure that if you stare into these eyes for longer than a second, you'll become her eternal slave ;)


Thoughts: Nicole Cassidy is life.

You're probably thinking: "Booknut, you need a life" "Booknut, why are you utterly obsessed with this fictional female you've only known for a mere month?"

First of all, when I say Nicole is life what I really mean is 'life goals'. Not that she's perfect, or drop-dead gorgeous, or super rich and successful, etc. She hasn't done anything that would put her in the running for the Nobel Peace Prize YET guys, just wait a few years!

But what she does do is that she sets an example for YA females.

Nicole's top lesson: Doesn't matter how hot a guy is. Or how much he says he cares. Sometimes he's just not that into you.

This lesson makes me so, so happy. Because Nicole doesn't delude herself into thinking that a combination of intense gazes, passionate kisses, and good looks = love. Nicole realises that real love is love that tries, is truthful, is loyal and that acts. No matter how many words of love a guy is saying, it's just not enough if his actions don't back them up.

Nicole doesn't settle. She values herself and knows that she is worth fighting for.

She's a heroine who has sorted out her priorities, despite her young age. Saving the world and dealing with the crisis facing them as a team is more important than finding sometime to spend Valentine's Day with. Nicole refuses to sacrifice the harmony of their super squad in order to appease a guy's fickle affections. She's a girl boss!

Girl power rant complete. Now on to the plot!

I loved how Madow integrated the mythology into the modern day setting of the book. Despite mythology having been used in a similar way by other authors (e.g. Rick Riordan) Madow made hers feel fresh and entertaining through her unique writing style and colourful cast of characters.

The moral of this review: if you need a good read with a great message, The Prophecy of Shadows is the book for you :)

[Leila · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5-2.75 STARS
"Iwas provided a copy for review throught NetGalley, this has in no way affected my opinion of the book nor the content of my upcoming review"

READING PROGRESS

10/01/2016

2 %
Harry Potter reference!!


7%
typical teenage love at first sight, I'm very skeptical about it. Ummmmm..... I'll wait and see....


29%
I'm not sure if I like this Blake or not, He's.... He's..... sooo.... confusing maybe? I don't KNOW! I just have a nagging feeling about him


33%
finally some action....

34%
How can prophecies as easy & obvious as this seems not obvious and easy to our dear protagonist.
Just Crazy!


39%
you do use your brain after all!

44%


Blake my friend, you seriously need to DTR, don't make me hate ya...

11/01/2016

50%
I'm already haffway through this book, and the relathionships (friendship/couple/BFFs/Even ENEMIES!) between these characters are next to none existent.
It's just


68%
Ooookay, you've been running around all day with them Danielle and you're still acting like a pethetic jealous bitch. great.


73%
This is me right now in the school library

and this is what I truly feel like inside:




This can't be happening, I connot accept this

You might be hapy about this but I"m NOT x(
Get the F*CK away Blake! DTR first remember?

75%


if that hair tossing was mentionned one more time I might kill someone....

80%


the Cliff!!! what just happened, OMG.

15/01/2016

82%

"I'll see you in Hades, my little Spoiler ."

90%
Nicole sweetheart your lack of response to Danielle's bitchiness is seriously .....

And YOU Danielle


SOOOOOOO


96%
THE END.

I'm not reading the sneak peek.
I'm disapointed and a teeny tiny bit pissed, almost everything was expected, detached & annoyingly easy.
PS: I really don't like Danielle and her somewhat pethetic excuse of a boyfriend Blake. sorry everybody !

Full review will be up on my blog near the release date

[Erin Dunn · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://angelerin.blogspot.com/2016/05...

First of all this book (I think it's ebook only) is FREE right now on Michelle Madow's website for a LIMITED TIME--- www.michellemadow.com.

I won The Prophecy of Shadows in a blog giveaway I think, but I'm not sure which one it's from! Sorry. I know, I'm horrible. I received the ebook via the author. Thank you Michelle Madow!

I'm going to get right to it on this one. The Prophecy of Shadows was ALMOST a 5 star book for me. It was so close and there was only one thing that really held me back from giving it that last star. The entire book was so GOOD, but from the very beginning of the book there was one thing that drove me nuts the whole way through. I'm going to put a mild spoiler here.

***MILD SPOILERS***
In the beginning of the book Nicole shows up for her first day of school and she gets put in the classes the witches are in, but it's never explained who knew she was a witch to put her in those classes in the first place. Nicole herself has no clue and since that was her FIRST day at school how did anyone else know? The entire book it drove me nuts because Nicole never even thinks about it. I want to know WHO knew she was a witch before she did to put her in the classes and HOW before she even started going to the school?!?!
***END SPOILERS***

Now I heard through the Grapevine that we will get answers to that much later in the book series. That's fine. I'm happy to know that at least it isn't left open. That would irritate me, but I still gave this one 4 stars. If I had not done some asking around in the blogging community I would not have been able to find out that we have to wait for the answers to this. Personally, I think all of this could be solved if once or twice in the book Nicole wonders to herself (or to someone else) about it. That way the reader knows that answers ARE coming, even if we have to wait a bit. I know this may come off ranty (I hope not though because I don't mean it that way), but it was so distracting for me while reading because I kept thinking about it and wondering why it was being ignored by Nicole. Seriously that's my one and only gripe about the book though.
#IHopeThisSoundsConstructiveAndNotRanty

Other than that one complaint The Prophecy of Shadows is an EXCELLENT book. After I found out the information about my one gripe I even thought about changing my rating to 5 stars. The fact of the matter is that I did not get that information from the book so I left it at 4 stars. Seriously though everything else was SO GOOD. The writing flows really well and I read most of the book in one day. I really loved all of the characters, especially Nicole and Blake. This is one where there is a whole group of entertaining characters and I love that! All of the magic and mythology elements were done really well. I like how witches and greek mythology were blended together and I'm surprised at how well it worked. This book was so darn entertaining and it reminded me of Twilight in a way.
#WitchesMeetsGreekMythologyForTheWin

Overall The Prophecy of Shadows is very captivating and definitely worth the read. This is a really fun one to read. I believe all of the series will be coming out this year and I want to read the rest! I may wait till they are all out and binge them though. I'm not sure, but I will HAVE to finish the series and see what happens.
#INeedTheRestNow

I recommend The Prophecy of Shadows for fans of books with witches, the Percy Jackson series, and Twilight.
#CallingAllTwihards

[Fatima Havilliard · Rating 3 out of 5]

**So many thanks to Netgalley and Michelle Madow for providing me this ARC**

If I need to summarize this book in a few words they'll be:

Witches + Greek Mythology = The Prophecy of Shadows

Well, let's talk about what I like and what not:

Stuff I like:

· I love that the magic of the witches comes from different colors like Yellow: Magic of Happiness and that things.
· Greek Mythology!! (This don't need explanation)

Stuff I don't like:

· So slow... One day I though about DNF this book because of that.
· Some thing were a Little too obviously.
· I feel the characters something loose
------------------------------------
I let us with this little review who I probably make longer after but, this week I had exams and my registration and study for the exam for High School. :)

[Hannah Cassie · Rating 3 out of 5]

MORE? MORE! @ P.S. I love that book!

A copy of the book was kindly provided to me by the publisher but it does not influence my review in any way!

THE WORLD: So the story is based half in our normal world and half not so normal. Basically their is a normal world like we know it and then withing it there are witches who can use different kind of energy. Normally, these witches are not able to move things but the comet flies by and suddenly five of them can. Also, there is some dark magical places that really are just out there somewhere filled with monsters. The idea is very similar to Percy Jackson to be honest, the witches are the descendants of the Olympian Gods and the five of them must go on this treasure hunting trip to fulfill the prophecy. Sounds familiar? Yeah I thought so too. It is not that the world is bad, I actually liked the whole homeroom thing before school where the elders were teaching witches how to perform magic but still, I do not like repetition much. Plus for me frankly it was a little bit weird because some things just made no sense. I mean I have read enough of YA books and know certain amount of knowledge about American teenager world but what are honor classes? And what exactly is this homeroom where everybody goes in high school before classes start? Just something I never heard of before.

CHARACTERS: Okay so as I already mentioned there are five main characters: Nicole, Blake, Danielle, Kate and Chris. Let's start with Nicole. She is a dorky teenager who just moved to new town and finds out she is a witch. All good frankly, I liked Nicole, she was not annoying and she get her head straight, especially when it comes to romance. Me liky liky Nicole! Next is Blake, again I did not have much problem with him except for one thing...he cheats on his girlfriend. That is a no no for me. Danielle on the other hand is supposed to be a bad character, she harms humans, is over-obsessed over Blake and just plain arrogant. But as book prognosis I actually found it hard to dislike her. She is arrogant I give you that but really she is pretty likable after all. Kate is the character I did not really understand, at some point I suspected her of turning into evil crazy character but that never happened. The book ended and I am yet to find out who Kate really is. And that leaves Chris who is just an addition to the group in terms of him being easy going and funny. He is that one person that keeps the group alive and gets rid of the tension.

LOVE: We have a new romance forming in this book and it was alright with me, I mean I really really liked the way the main character handled it, it just sounded very smart and mature, well done Nicole!

PLUS: I like the use of elements and magic. It is what made this book interesting. Plus I also liked the characters, I think they are the strong part in the story.

MINUS: I did not like the story itself much, I really really disliked that it felt just another Percy Jackson.

OVERALL: I know this book is targeted as YA but most of the time reading it I felt a little bit like I was reading a middle grade book. So I would recommend it mainly to people who like easy and fast read of witchery fantasy.

MORE? MORE! @ P.S. I love that book!

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not seen for over three thousand years, the Olympian Comet flies through the night sky and five teens will find themselves wrapped up in a world that they could never imagine. Only by working together, will they prove up to the tasks given them along with the elemental powers they possess as witches. Water, air, fire, earth, aether and Greek mythology, All. In. One. Fabulous. Tale. Michelle Madow will definitely grab your attention with THE PROPHECY OF SHADOWS as she spins her tale weaving together witchcraft and the gods witches descended from.

Feel the buildup in the beginning as we meet Nicole, who has recently moved and begins her life at her new high school where witches hide among the normal and their special classes are hidden behind the allusion crafted by their teachers. Think it’s hard enough just to be the new kid in school? Try not even knowing you are a witch, being in total disbelief, only to discover that magic is real and you possess some of the strongest ever, either that or you have had the biggest prank ever played on you!

Nicole seems to have her stuff together, although still in shock over her new life, while Blake is the bad boy who both attracts her with his charm and repels her with his nasty, high school princess girlfriend, yep, a bit of a triangle is in play and the claws will come out! Round out the five teens with two completely likable and more stable teens and this unlikely group have some major trouble on their hands and, of course, The Prophecy to deal with. They can only succeed if they learn to trust, work together and bury the hatchet on their issues anywhere but in each other’s backs.

Michelle Madow has put down a great foundation, building a world that accelerates with each page and flies across the finish line at full tilt!

My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Series: Elementals - Book 1
Publisher: Dreamscape Publishing (January 26, 2016)
Publication Date: January 26, 2016
Genre: YA Fantasy
Page Count: 309 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Wanderlust_Wanz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though the story and romance is rather predictable, this is still quite a fun and fast read and I like how Nicole empowered herself with her witch abilities.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

After Nicole Cassidy and her family move from Georgia to Salem she gets quite a shock on her first day of classes in her new school. When handed her schedule Nicole sees she's been placed in all honors classes and feels it must be some kind of mistake but is told she won't be able to change until the end of the day. When entering her homeroom for the first time her new teacher suddenly makes the writing on the chalkboard completely change.

Nicole learns that not only is her teacher and new classmates witches but they tell her that she is one herself. When trying to do some of the experiments in class Nicole finds herself a complete natural at magic and begins to learn the origins of her powers come from the ancient Greek Gods.

A great start to what will hopefully turn out to be great series. The tie in with Greek Mythology and the modern day characters being witches was certainly fun to read. There was a lot of action in this first installment to keep the pages turning. And certainly an ending that makes the reader want to know what will happen next.

I would warn readers though to be prepared for the old insta-love and love triangle that are involved in a lot of YA books. Nicole is instantly attracted the hot bad boy in school and he already has a bitchy girlfriend. None of that would bother me except Blake became the "I swear I'm going to break up with her" type which is a huge turn off. Hopefully he'll redeem himself in the next book.

Overall, good start to what can be a great series, would recommend giving this one a try.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....

[Kirsty-Marie Jones · Rating 1 out of 5]

l have never lied about loving or hating a book in my life, and I'm not going to start doing it now just because I'm on an authors street team.

Two words that sums up The Prophecy of Shadows;

Generic
And
Clichéd

Look, in YA, especially when it comes to Paranormal/Witches/Greek Mythology, we're going to get similarities to other series', and considering the comparisons it's compared to, it's bound to be similar, but...The Prophecy of Shadows is too like one and hardly like the other. If you've read at least one book in The Secret Circle series or Percy Jackson, you'll figure out which. Let's put it this way, the Greek Mythology in TPoS is sparse and textbook, and it doesn't connect or infuse with the world that well.

The plot in the first instalment is...pretty basic itself and not a lot bar from finding out you're a witch, adapting way too quickly and a scavenger hunt that once again, is basic that you know what's going to happen before it happens, not a lot goes on.

The characters are where it gets more generic and clichéd. Our main, Nicole, is the chosen special one that is new to town, finds out she's a witch, has powers, adapts to everything too quickly, then wait, she's so much more powerful than the rest of her group/coven. Blake is the hot guy who everyone wants, and has a bitch jealous girlfriend who will ruin you just for looking at him. Danielle is that girlfriend. Also she flicks/tosses/flips/whatever her hair over her shoulder every. few minutes. She should really get that seen to. Chris is the funny guy...that isn't that funny and Kate, well, she's the bookworm who knows everything, never does anything wrong or stupid (basically, I was that person in high school, don't judge me) and if it wasn't for the tucks/pushes hair behind her ears every. few minutes, she'd be completely forgettable.

Bottom line. The characters are one dimensional, annoying and have next to little development.

The world building...yeah. We have a little, so there's that. But that little doesn't explain more than necessary and has holes that could've easily been filled.

I'm not going to lie, the writing in The Prophecy of Shadows felt condescending, like the readers are being talked down to, over explaining every little thing, and since the characters are explaining things, they're also being condescending to one another. There's also no feel to it, no emotions felt from the characters when they're scared/intense scenes.

But the worst thing about The Prophecy of Shadows is the romance, not that you could call it romance. As it's mentioned. Blake has a girlfriend, but a part from her being jealous at anyone that looks at him, there's nothing between them. That being said, there's nothing between Nicole and Blake other than attraction and instalust to the max from the moment they look at each other, and that's basically it.

Honestly, I'm rather disappointed, and a little insulted by the comparisons, but it's fast paced, so The Prophecy of Shadows has one thing going for it.

a copy was provided through Netgalley.

[Aly · Rating 3 out of 5]

**Actual Rating 3 stars**

ARC REVIEW HERE:

https://bookloverthoughts.wordpress.c...

**Thank you NetGalley and Barclay Publicity for giving me a review copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are solely my own.**

[Kristin Hackett (Merrily Kristin) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally posted on Super Space Chick:

When I heard about Michelle Maddow’s new series, Elementals, I knew I had to read it. The first book, The Prophecy of Shadows, introduces the reader to a world that combines greek mythology and witchery. The story follows the main character Nicole and four of her classmates from the unusual homeroom class she’s placed in where everyone is descended from Greek Gods. Because it’s become less common for Greek Gods to visit Earth and procreate, the offspring in the bloodline consider themselves to be witches since their blood is diluted. They’re discouraged from becoming involved with humans in an effort to preserve their bloodline. Being descendants has allotted them some unique abilities and they use colors to channel their energy. While Nicole is learning everything about her newfound abilities, a comet passes over her town and changes everything.

While I found much of the storyline of The Prophecy of Shadows to be predictable, I still enjoyed reading the story. The plot is very formulaic and full of common tropes but the story still manages to be engaging and quick paced. The main character is the normal human with a newfound ability that we learn everything through. She is pining for a bad boy (Blake) who’s in a relationship with a seemingly awful and possessive female classmate (Danielle – both of whom are in the Elementals group). Then we have the over-achieving intelligent girl (Kate), and the guy she likes (Chris) who’s more of a nerdy outsider. It’s almost like a modern day Breakfast Club of Greek Gods descendants, all led by their homeroom teacher Darius, a member of the Elders who helps to regulate magic on Earth. The group comes together when their powers are exacerbated by a comet and they set out on a hero’s quest to find the meaning of an illusive prophecy while learning about and testing out their powers.

I noticed many similarities between The Prophecy of Shadows and Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan. Since both deal with Greek Gods, it’s difficult not to draw comparisons between the two series. While The Prophecy of Shadows is aimed at a slightly older audience, I still found the story to read at more of a middle grade level than a YA level. While the characters faced their trials and tribulations, it seemed a little too unbelievable to me that they would be able to master their powers so quickly. I understand that it’s the first book, but their obstacles didn’t seem challenging enough for the situations they found themselves in. This first installment did a good job of world-building and introducing the reader to the characters which leads me to believe that the second book will have a higher payoff. The ending already left us with a taste of the excitement to come!

Final Thoughts: The Prophecy of Shadows by Michelle Maddow is an interesting first installment in the Elementals series. If you’re a fan of Greek mythology or Percy Jackson, I would definitely recommend giving this series a go. I had a lot of issues with the book overall but it didn’t take away from the enjoyment of reading it. The book is full of tropes and the story is formulaic but it’s also quick paced and keeps you interested. As you can tell, my feelings were very mixed on this one!

[Shane · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Prophecy of Shadows got right into it. There wasn't a lot of time spent on Nicole's character, in regards to setting up a connection for me or unraveling her family life and who she was as a person. I had to take it how it came as the story went on, and things did move quite fast. I usually love fast-paced stories that don't drag or overwhelm with too much detail, but in this case, I wish the author had taken a little more time before bringing on the adventure. I probably would have connected more with Nicole and the other characters had it been like that. It just sort of felt like things were a tad rushed. I mean, Nicole had just moved to this new place and starting a new school, but then she's placed in a homeroom with unique students and a teacher telling her she's a witch and that magic exists. I would think stuff like that would be hard to take in and she'd need a little more time to become convinced, especially when Nicole hadn't experienced any weirdness in her life prior to coming to this place. But seemed like she believed way too soon and too easily. Also, after the whole comet thing, the adventure took off so fast and too much was starting to happen early, in particular Nicole's attraction to Blake.

I didn't care for Blake at all, and that mostly had to do with the fact that he wouldn't put up a stand against Danielle and not allow her to carry on in that way, hurting people she was jealous of who got too close to him. I mean, clearly Danielle was quite a trip, but had he fought against her nonsense perhaps some people wouldn't have gotten hurt.

Anyway, aside from those things, I still liked the premise and the whole mythological aspect of the story. I liked how a bit of mystery was thrown in the mix when all five went on this scavenger hunt with each clue having to do with one of the abilities. So even though it went by quickly, the adventure was still an enjoyable one and I am curious about the second book after what happened in the caves with Nicole's power, and I am looking forward to seeing how the overall story and characters progress.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating 4.5/5
This is a magical adventure with witches, a demigod, monsters and, of course, humans. The star of the story is Nicole Cassidy who has recently moved to New England where, on her first day in her new high school, she discovers she’s actually magically talented. She also sees Blake across a crowded room and instant love blooms even if they’ll both resist it – especially as he’s sat with his girlfriend at the time! Nicole is headstrong, sceptical and resourceful and, it turns out, she’s way above average in magical ability compared to her peers.

Journey with Nicole as she discovers more about her magical skills, makes new friends, meets wicked, potentially lethal enemies and helps to uncover the meaning of a prophecy written three hundred years ago. There are five very diverse friends who will have to work through their differences to work together to decipher the clues to find out what the prophecy of shadows actually is. There is a potent mix of witchcraft and Greek mythology running throughout the story. It gathers pace to become a real page turner, with plenty of surprises en route. Get ready to fight two headed monsters, harpies and others!

This is a relatively quick, enjoyable read and has certainly whet my appetite for the next book in the series, The Blood of the Hydra, which is due to be released in a few months time.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.

[Vivi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Zmarnowany potencjał. Niby druga część jest lepsza, ale nie wiem, czy chcę kontynuuować tę serię. Strasznie irytowali mnie wszyscy bohaterowie. Zaczyna się stereotypowo : nowa dziewczyna w miasteczku zakochuje się w przystojniaku, a on ma dziewczynę, która oczywiście jest ładna ale i wredna. Nawiasem mówiąc, wątek miłosny jest też beznadziejny. Te tłumaczenia kolesia, dlaczego nie może się rozstać - parsknęłam śmiechem. Nie czułam też żadnej chemii. Główna bohaterka ledwo co pojawia się w nowej szkole i dowiaduje się o swoich zdolnościach i już radzi sobie najlepiej ze wszystkich. Uwielbiam książki z mitologią grecką, ale to był jednak niewypał.

[Krissys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Prophecy of Shadows (Elementals #1) by Michelle Madow  
 
 
 
Witches are real. They're descendants of the Greek gods.Nicole Cassidy is a witch descended from the Greek gods... but she doesn't know it until she moves to a new town and discovers a dangerous world of magic and monsters that she never knew existed.When the Olympian Comet shoots through the sky for the first time in three thousand years, Nicole and four others -- including mysterious bad-boy Blake -- are gifted with elemental powers. But the comet has another effect -- it opens the portal to another dimension that has imprisoned the Titans for centuries.
 
After an ancient monster escapes, it's up to Nicole and the others to follow a cryptic prophecy in time to save the town... and possibly the world.
 
 


I actually really liked the concept that was in this book however there was so much teen angst which is a drag for me that I couldn't really enjoy this one.
There's a great idea in here but I think it would have played better as an adult novel than a YA one. Still an okay read just not my idea of a perfect romance angle.
 





 
Michelle Madow
 
 


 




 




 


 

 




 
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Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.

Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from the author.
 

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[Diana]

I can’t even give this book a rating. It honestly reminded me of a Wattpad book (not that Wattpad books are bad or something, it just gives me those vibes, ya feel?). It’s good to pass the time, but everything about it is just... bad.

Still, I’m totally gonna read the second book, just to see what happens.

[♡Julalicious Book Paradise♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: 2.5/5

Original review on Julalicious Book Paradise

I was really intrigued about this book and I was happy that I got the chance to read an advanced copy of it. Unfortunately, I was sort of disappointed with this book.

The idea was interesting, but it didn’t catch my attention at all. The characters didn’t do it for me. I couldn’t connect with them and they annoyed me so much. I’m not the kind of person who hates clichés or overused plots, but in this, I couldn’t help but cringe each time I saw one.

The main character was really the one who annoyed me the much. She was excelling at everything she was doing and it bugged me. Even if this is explained in some point of the book, I still felt like it was over the top. But it would have still been bearable if it wasn’t for her personality; it sometimes felt like all over the place. For example, she is attracted to a guy who already has a girlfriend and one minute, she’s like, I shouldn’t, but he talks to her and then it’s like who cares, I want to see him and know if he likes me or not. If that girl was my friend in real life, I would have probably slapped her a few times.

And the girlfriend is of course the meanest girl ever and that’s a cliché that really bugs me. I mean, couldn’t the guy have a girlfriend who is nice, but not made for him? We don’t need to hate the other girl to hope the main character to end up with him.

And I wish other characters caught my attention because it would probably make me want to read the next books in the series, but right now, I just don’t feel like it.

I know a lot of people love her books and maybe her writing and me won’t ever connect. Will it stop me from reading her other books? I don’t know. I ought to give a try to one of her other series and see if I would love them more, but this series isn’t for me.

Thank you NETGALLEY & BARCLAY PUBLICITY for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest opinion.

[Maya · Rating 1 out of 5]

Let’s go over all of the things I didn’t like:

•The characters:

They were all very one dimensional and flat, I felt no connection whatsoever to any of them, most of all the main ones, whose romance was a big failure to me. “I don’t know how to explain it, but I’ve felt connected to you since I saw you walk into homeroom on your first day. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever felt for Danielle. Do you have the same thing? Or am I going crazy?” “My heart was pounding so hard that he could probably hear it, and even though I’d wanted to be alone with Blake since I first saw him, I needed to control whatever I was feeling for him. Nothing could happen between us. At least not right now, while he had a girlfriend.” And after knowing each other for a week and a half: “We could be together in secret.”



As for Nicole alone, she wasn’t really the smartest tool in the shed. “You ‘created an illusion,’” I repeated, shaking my head. “I guess I shouldn’t have expected something that made sense.” And they kept fretting about this prophecy and complaining how they couldn’t understand a word of it, even though it was very clear and comprehensible. Our MC also has problems imagining someone she hates reading comic books. ““And you know this because … you read comics?” I stifled laughter, since I couldn’t picture that.”



•The writing:

It was bad. So boring and plain.

•The world building:

It was very poor and lacking. Everything about the gods was very textbook-y. Most of the things we learned were dumped on us by characters reciting their lessons in an awkward manner.

•The actions scenes, if you can actually call them that:

No suspense, no excitement. They were very dull and boring.

•In addition to everything I mentioned, there was no diversity at all.

[Vanessa Gayle ⚔️ Fangirl Faction · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free from Barclay Publicity via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Elementals: The Prophecy of Shadows is an interestingly distinct paranormal story that weaves Greek mythology into the mix. I have to say, I haven't come across a premise quite like it before. I thoroughly loved the elemental aspect of the story. If you love stories about witchcraft or mythology then I would pick this one up!

What I liked
I think that the best thing about this book is the interesting premise. I was really intrigued by Madow's interpretation of magic and mythology. I haven't read anything quite like it before, so it was refreshing.

The dialogues are fantastic! Most of the characters in this book are in high school, and they talk like they are. I hate reading books where the young characters in the books talk in sentences resembling college essays or network news anchors. Teenagers talk like young people. Madow's characters are young, they talk like young people. They don't speak as though they are unintelligent by any means, but at the same time not at all like adults.

The main characters are very relate-able. You get where they are coming from and nothing feels iffy as the story develops.

I like how addicting the story became the longer that I read. I seriously finished this book in ONE sitting. It was really that good. =D

I really enjoyed the romance. It was fairly subtle because of the situations in the book, but I thought that it was lovely. I don't know that I have Blake completely figured out though, so I can't wait for the next book! I am rooting for Blake and Nicole! (Also, how cute are Kate and Chris?! I think that they would be adorable together!)

What I didn't like
I would have liked to have seen more about Kate and Chris. They have large parts of the story, but I didn't feel as though their personalities and backgrounds were covered enough. I would have liked to have known them a little deeper. Especially since they were so integral to the story.

There were a few things that were fairly predictable in the plot. Once my suspicions were confirmed, it didn't necessarily take away from the story. I still very much enjoyed the outcome of the book. Alas, the predictable factor is still there and worth mentioning.

While reading I felt like the story was progressing a little quickly for my taste. I think that adding some more background information would have also been beneficial. Again, it doesn't necessarily take away from my enjoyment, but I do think that these things could have made the book that much better.

Would I Recommend It
Absolutely! Elementals: The Prophecy of Shadows is a breath of fresh air! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read the next book in this series! Gah! Why can't it be April yet? I need Elementals: The Blood of the Hydra now!

[Mandy Sickle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Received The Prophecy of Shadows (Elementals) in return for an honest review from the publisher. Nicole has been uprooted due to her dad’s new job to a new a larger town away from sunny Georgia. Her first day of classes prove to be far from what she expected after she arrives in homeroom to find that her teacher is a witch, and that he’s not the only one. Pulled into a secret world of witches who are descendants of Greek gods but all of their abilities are mental. Nicole is a quick study it takes almost no time to learn how to channel the different colors.

Nicole quickly befriends Kate and Chris who are in the class but it’s clear that Danielle who happens to be dating Blake has it in for her. If only Blake wasn’t so attractive and they didn’t have a connection maybe she wouldn’t be a target. After they end up a group under a comet what should be a routine mediation things start to change. Suddenly the once mental powers are now physical and each one of them has a different ability. Nicole’s teacher reveals that a prophecy was told about her, and it sends the group off on a quest to solve it, testing them risking them all against mythical beasts.

I liked Nicole she accepts that she’s a witch and picks up her abilities quickly being pulled into a world she had no idea it existed. We have several characters that are supporting Nicole since she’s part of a group of five. I like Kate and Chris right it was Blake and Danielle I wasn’t so sure about they actually grew on me for different reasons throughout the book. I like the idea of Nicole with Blake they just seem to work well together and I think Danielle may just run down the dark path in the future.

I’ve had this one on my wish list since the moment I read the synopsis and saw the cover. It reminds me of Percy Jackson but with a female lead, a different quest but with the same idea of being descendants of the gods but it’s not a bad thing. I like the concept while it’s a familiar one the author has created an intricately woven unique story that mixes the mythology with modern day. I enjoyed turning each page (clicking) to see what was going to happen to Nicole and her friends. I liked the characters Nicole was each to connect with and I was hooked to her story had to know what would happen next. The Prophecy of Shadows is a fast paced action packed novel that kept me on the edge of my seat till the very end, even finishing it in one day. I loved the authors writing style her book is well written and beautifully done it’s hard to put down. I enjoyed every moment of the novel and can’t wait to read the next one.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I've seen reviews that compare this book to Rick Riordan's series or the TV show Secret Circle. Since I'm not familiar with both, I thought this was an enjoyable take on Greek mythology and witchcraft. It was fast-paced with lots of action and exploration of the different powers the characters have. The story moved as fast as the blink of an eye: as early as the first chapter, Nicole learns she is a witch. The next chapter, she is practicing her first magic.

Speaking of magic, I love how the author described and developed the magic system. I like the actual practices of controlling their elemental power, the example of which is tapping on a specific color in order to bring about a change in their environment. I thought it was fun and exciting to read about.

Since the story took place in present day New England, I thought the world building was sufficient and well-delivered . (diluted Grecian God blood, anyone?). In all honesty, the story moved so fast I barely had time to consider the setting.

Nicole is the headstrong heroine who instantly falls in love with the one boy she can't have. Blake is your average, bad boy. Danielle is the mean girl who will make you suffer for glancing at her boyfriend. Kate is a shy and intelligent goody two shoes. And finally, Chris is the joker of the group. They all sound a bit familiar, don't they? I would love to see these characters break from character stereotypes and become three-dimensional in future books.

IN CONCLUSION:

The Prophecy of Shadows is a light, quick paced story and a satisfactory beginning to an adventure that mixes mythology and magic seamlessly. If you are new to the fantasy genre or you are looking for a light fantasy read, then I recommend giving this book a try.

This review was cross-posted on Fiddler Blue

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a bad read slow in places but worth a few days reading

[Siobhan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Elementals series is one that called out to me for quite some time. It seemed right up my street, and yet I was tentative to start reading it. Such is so often the case with young adult fantasy novels – I’ve read so many that are much of the same, leaving me worried that I’ve read all the real ‘wow’ books.

The Prophecy of Shadows was a very fun read; however, it didn’t quite reach the ‘wow’ that earns young adult books four or five star ratings from me. Whilst there were some original aspects, there were far too many of those cliché moments for it to really stand out above the rest. Whilst I am interested in carrying on with the series, I won’t be rushing to read the future books.

I’ll start with the good, and then go on to why it felt so much like many other books.

The biggest hooray, for me, was the mixture of witches and Greek mythology. I love both kinds of stories, and mixing the two together earned the story so many points. Honestly, anything with mythology wins me over. There’s just something magical about mythology. With this story, we had more than just your simple demigod aspect. With this story, the deity blood is so diluted those linked back to the deities are merely witches. I loved this about the book. It took mythology without copying all the ‘this god had this child’ and ‘that god had that child’ aspect that you so often see in mythology books.

Then there was all the action. We’re thrown into things from the very start, pulling us straight into the supernatural world. It takes a couple more chapters for the pace to really pick up, but once it reaches a high point of the action starting it does not stop until the end. Things continue to build throughout, and putting the book down was impossible – resulting in me reading the book in one sitting.

I guess that brings me to my final positive points: the addition. Despite what I’ll go on to say shortly, the book was highly addictive. You’re pulled into the story, constantly questioning what is to come next. I love stories like that – it’s always great when you’re so absorbed into the world that putting the book down becomes difficult.

Now for the negative points, the points that stopped me from giving it a higher rating.

This book felt like so many others on the market. So many aspects were clichéd, felt as though they’d been taken from other books. I regularly had feelings of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, along with many other of the big names. Whilst the moments weren’t carbon copies, there was a distinct feel of many other big books. This is not necessarily a bad thing – I’m just someone who likes a book to be entirely unique. I enjoy references to other books – such as the Harry Potter references that were made – yet this felt too much like other books for me to be able to consider it a book that stands above the rest.

A larger issue, for me, however, was the main character. I enjoyed her, yes. I did not enjoy how she seems to be this all-powerful being. Even though she does not come across as being as overtly powerful as some other main characters, it is still very much there. By the end of the book, such is made very clear. In fact, I wasn’t at all surprised when the end revelation came about. It’ll play a big part in the future books, I’m sure, yet it links back to my prior statement of this book having a feel of other big names.

My final negative point is in regards to the romance. I really didn’t care for it at all. It felt too forced, too typical. It seemed to be shoved in simply because all young adult novels consider it a necessity. There was no real depth to it, with it existing mostly to create drama. In fact, it only fed into how some of the characters seemed to be overly clichéd. Our main female is adored by the male; the male is the hottest thing you have ever set your eyes on; there is a prior love interest to make everything messy. Truthfully, I could have done without the romantic element.

Overall, it was a decent read. I wasn’t crazy about it, but I did find myself pulled in. I just don’t think this first book in the series was for me, but I am hopeful of what else the author is going to give in the future.