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The Shadow City Book One: Before Again: A gripping start to a seductive fantasy series
He’s been killing for hundreds of years.
But he reckoned without her.
Kirsty doesn’t do people, but even she can’t ignore the man being roasted alive on the banks of the Clyde. She batters in to save his life…
And accidentally tears the fabric of time.
Now an ancient serial killer is on the loose and only Kirsty can make him regret he was ever born.
Whatever the cost.
Will she live up to the pressure or will everything she loves be lost forever?
But he reckoned without her.
Kirsty doesn’t do people, but even she can’t ignore the man being roasted alive on the banks of the Clyde. She batters in to save his life…
And accidentally tears the fabric of time.
Now an ancient serial killer is on the loose and only Kirsty can make him regret he was ever born.
Whatever the cost.
Will she live up to the pressure or will everything she loves be lost forever?
298 pages, Paperback
Published November 18, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 9, 2023
4.5 stars
I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect with this book but it was described as buffy meets outlander and it sounded like a great read. I loved it.
It was a crazy rollercoaster of a ride! Kirsty was such a fun character, she didn’t mince her words and she was just hilarious at times!
I liked the short chapters and the authors writing style really has a way of keeping you fully engaged.
I found it hard to read at a steady pace got the readalong and I did read on at times as I was keen to know what was happening next.
The book ends on such a cliffhanger, I can’t wait to read the next book.
I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect with this book but it was described as buffy meets outlander and it sounded like a great read. I loved it.
It was a crazy rollercoaster of a ride! Kirsty was such a fun character, she didn’t mince her words and she was just hilarious at times!
I liked the short chapters and the authors writing style really has a way of keeping you fully engaged.
I found it hard to read at a steady pace got the readalong and I did read on at times as I was keen to know what was happening next.
The book ends on such a cliffhanger, I can’t wait to read the next book.
March 18, 2023
This book delivers the reader a time travelling feast for your imagination. Kirsty McIvar travelling home ten years after she left her hometown to her Grandmothers funeral. When she sees someone in dire need of rescuing, rushes to help, which then tears the fabric of time and releases an ancient killer!! The reader is then taken along on a quite a ride to an ending that will leave you shouting at the author and screaming for book 2.
January 17, 2023
When I read the synopsis of the book and that it was a mix of outlander meets Buffy I was very intrigued. The author did an amazing job describing Gaslow and world building. I enjoyed the relationship between the characters as well as the side characters. At times there were some transition from one scene to the next that was very abruptly. There were unexpected twists that were enjoyable. Overall, the story was interesting and ended on a cliff hanger. Looking forward to the next book of the series.
February 13, 2023
‘Before Again’ is a book which I fell instantly in love with. It is full of fun, whimsy, drama, magic, and time travel and most importantly for me, it oozes Glaswegian charm! Oh and a hot Viking! What is not to love about it?
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📚📚📚
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Kirsty has been bumming around the world for about a decade but when she receives a text message saying her Gran has died she heads back to Glasgow for the funeral. When she gets home she goes in search of a roll and sausage but instead ends up saving a man being roasted alive on the banks of the River Clyde. By doing so she jumps a time zone and life is never quite the same! Especially, when she realises there is a serial killer on the loose which she needs to stop!
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📚📚📚
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This is one of those books which is hard to review as it will give away spoilers and I don't want to do that as part of the joy of this book is finding out stuff alongside Kirsty! Kirsty feels as if she could be one of my pals. Instantly recognisable as a Glasgow gal she embodies all the qualities which makes the people in this city. The sense of location in this book is immense. Probably helps that I am a southsider and live in what could have been Kirsty’s house! But all jokes aside, Claire has managed to capture on the page something special, the essence of why I love living in Glasgow. Its history, the infectious love of having a laugh, its gallus bravery when deal with the crap life throws at you and just not taking yourself too seriously. It's a big part of why I adored this book!
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📚📚📚
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It took me awhile to realise that this was not my first book by this author as the writing style is completely different in comparison to her crime books set in Glasgow. Have a swatch at them though as I thoroughly enjoyed that series as well! It shows how adaptable a writer Claire is though and I think ‘Before Again’ is her best book to date! I honestly can't wait for the next book in this series as I NEED to know what happens to Kirsty and the gang!
.
📚📚📚
.
Kirsty has been bumming around the world for about a decade but when she receives a text message saying her Gran has died she heads back to Glasgow for the funeral. When she gets home she goes in search of a roll and sausage but instead ends up saving a man being roasted alive on the banks of the River Clyde. By doing so she jumps a time zone and life is never quite the same! Especially, when she realises there is a serial killer on the loose which she needs to stop!
.
📚📚📚
.
This is one of those books which is hard to review as it will give away spoilers and I don't want to do that as part of the joy of this book is finding out stuff alongside Kirsty! Kirsty feels as if she could be one of my pals. Instantly recognisable as a Glasgow gal she embodies all the qualities which makes the people in this city. The sense of location in this book is immense. Probably helps that I am a southsider and live in what could have been Kirsty’s house! But all jokes aside, Claire has managed to capture on the page something special, the essence of why I love living in Glasgow. Its history, the infectious love of having a laugh, its gallus bravery when deal with the crap life throws at you and just not taking yourself too seriously. It's a big part of why I adored this book!
.
📚📚📚
.
It took me awhile to realise that this was not my first book by this author as the writing style is completely different in comparison to her crime books set in Glasgow. Have a swatch at them though as I thoroughly enjoyed that series as well! It shows how adaptable a writer Claire is though and I think ‘Before Again’ is her best book to date! I honestly can't wait for the next book in this series as I NEED to know what happens to Kirsty and the gang!
February 4, 2023
This book is an absolute rollercoaster of a read! Just completely bonkers, random, creepy, shocking, mysterious, heartwarming and brilliant!
When I started reading this, I thought it was going to be a fairly standard murder mystery story - but it was so, so much more.
Kirsty returns from travelling to attend her Gran's funeral - her old family home is derelict and she camps out there for the night.
The next day, she witnesses a gang trying to set a man on fire down at the docks and she saves him.
She then turns up to the church and finds herself at someone else's funeral.
All very strange - but after she discovers that it's actually a year later - things get even more complicated!
With a serial killer on the loose, vikings rampaging, missing time, past family issues and so much more....
I found the writing style really easy to read. Although dealing with strange events, it still felt very down to earth and flowed nicely without feeling overwhelming or fantastical.
Kirsty was a great character to explore. She quickly got to grips with what was happening and stepped up becoming the strong voice of reason and heroine.
I loved the relationship and banter she had with Harry, Nathan and Frej and the blossoming romance too.
My only complaint about this book is the fact that the ending sets us up for book 2 in the series and leaves us with a massive, shocking cliffhanger!!
I absolutely NEED the next installment to see what happens and where this journey goes next
When I started reading this, I thought it was going to be a fairly standard murder mystery story - but it was so, so much more.
Kirsty returns from travelling to attend her Gran's funeral - her old family home is derelict and she camps out there for the night.
The next day, she witnesses a gang trying to set a man on fire down at the docks and she saves him.
She then turns up to the church and finds herself at someone else's funeral.
All very strange - but after she discovers that it's actually a year later - things get even more complicated!
With a serial killer on the loose, vikings rampaging, missing time, past family issues and so much more....
I found the writing style really easy to read. Although dealing with strange events, it still felt very down to earth and flowed nicely without feeling overwhelming or fantastical.
Kirsty was a great character to explore. She quickly got to grips with what was happening and stepped up becoming the strong voice of reason and heroine.
I loved the relationship and banter she had with Harry, Nathan and Frej and the blossoming romance too.
My only complaint about this book is the fact that the ending sets us up for book 2 in the series and leaves us with a massive, shocking cliffhanger!!
I absolutely NEED the next installment to see what happens and where this journey goes next
January 17, 2023
I received a gifted copy as part of a book tour - my review is my honest opinion
As soon as I heard about this book I knew I had to read it. I must admit the "Buffy meets Outlander" sold it to me because I absolutely loved Buffy... Outlander on the hand, I still haven't a clue what that is - but don't worry, I don't think I needed to for this book.
Before Again wasn't how I imagined it would be, it was intriguing and held such mysteries. I got a little lost at times and I felt as confused as our main character. I say this not as a bad thing as it made the twists and turns all that surprising to me. I felt like I was part of Kirsty learning it with her.
The writing and the descriptions within this novel really grasped me and drew me into the world. It was so enticing, being set in Glasgow made me picture the world a little better especially with the slang used. The pull of the secrets and the weird goings on, I was compelled to keep reading.
The development of the characters were equally as rich, they seemed so real and brought the whole story together.
I feel like this novel is going to be one of those that if you read it a second time you'll pick up on things that you may have missed the first time.
I enjoyed Before Again and I look forward to reading more from Claire S Duffy.
As soon as I heard about this book I knew I had to read it. I must admit the "Buffy meets Outlander" sold it to me because I absolutely loved Buffy... Outlander on the hand, I still haven't a clue what that is - but don't worry, I don't think I needed to for this book.
Before Again wasn't how I imagined it would be, it was intriguing and held such mysteries. I got a little lost at times and I felt as confused as our main character. I say this not as a bad thing as it made the twists and turns all that surprising to me. I felt like I was part of Kirsty learning it with her.
The writing and the descriptions within this novel really grasped me and drew me into the world. It was so enticing, being set in Glasgow made me picture the world a little better especially with the slang used. The pull of the secrets and the weird goings on, I was compelled to keep reading.
The development of the characters were equally as rich, they seemed so real and brought the whole story together.
I feel like this novel is going to be one of those that if you read it a second time you'll pick up on things that you may have missed the first time.
I enjoyed Before Again and I look forward to reading more from Claire S Duffy.
January 16, 2023
This is not my typical genre of book. However, I was drawn into this one right away. I mean - a naked man being burned by a group of other man - how can that not catch your attention? There are so many things that I loved - Kirsty, Frej, time travel, investigating a crime. I moved through this book so quickly. I was participating in a read along but could not put it down. The author descriptions of the characters and locations were incredible - slipping you right into the story. The best part? A strong female heroine with some pretty cool powers being supported by some unique and diverse men. I really enjoyed that the abilities the characters have passed fromn generation to generation. The time shifting was so intriguing - literally glimpsing into the past. Plus the ending!!!! So thankful this is only book one and there is more to come!
Huge thank you Love Books Tours for selecting me for their tour, providing me a gifted e-copy and introducing me to this incredible author!
Huge thank you Love Books Tours for selecting me for their tour, providing me a gifted e-copy and introducing me to this incredible author!
January 23, 2023
This is the first time I've experienced this authors writing, but I can tell you it most definitely won't be the last.
Honestly, I couldn't tell you what genre this should fit into. It spans so many! At one point, I'm like, cool, a bit of fantasy, OK, maybe sci-fi, hmm, historical, ooh romance, wait action, ooh thriller. It's just non-stop!
The characters are fascinating. The dynamic in the MacIvar family is tantalisingly hinted at throughout, but I'd love to know more!
The Vikings provide some real action to the story.
Kirsty's banter, that real Glaswegian humour that we Scot's are notorious for, is evident, and her quips will have you laughing out loud on multiple occasions.
The chapters are short and snappy, which keeps the pace of the story flying on.
I cannot believe it ended how it did, I need the sequel like yesterday!!
Honestly, I couldn't tell you what genre this should fit into. It spans so many! At one point, I'm like, cool, a bit of fantasy, OK, maybe sci-fi, hmm, historical, ooh romance, wait action, ooh thriller. It's just non-stop!
The characters are fascinating. The dynamic in the MacIvar family is tantalisingly hinted at throughout, but I'd love to know more!
The Vikings provide some real action to the story.
Kirsty's banter, that real Glaswegian humour that we Scot's are notorious for, is evident, and her quips will have you laughing out loud on multiple occasions.
The chapters are short and snappy, which keeps the pace of the story flying on.
I cannot believe it ended how it did, I need the sequel like yesterday!!
March 11, 2023
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Today marks the end of the book review tour and I am thankful to have been a part of the tour.
This book had me hooked the moment I started it.
I love the twist and turns that kept you wanting more, they were enough to keep me hooked.
The character of Kirsty was brilliant. She's exactly the kind of character I like to read about. One who takes charge. I liked the relationships she had with everyone as well. And also her character growth throughout.
My only nagging annoyance was sometimes it was hard to understand some of the dialogue only down to the fact that it was set in Glasgow. That was the only downside, oh and the unfortunate fact the book ends on a cliffhanger.
Today marks the end of the book review tour and I am thankful to have been a part of the tour.
This book had me hooked the moment I started it.
I love the twist and turns that kept you wanting more, they were enough to keep me hooked.
The character of Kirsty was brilliant. She's exactly the kind of character I like to read about. One who takes charge. I liked the relationships she had with everyone as well. And also her character growth throughout.
My only nagging annoyance was sometimes it was hard to understand some of the dialogue only down to the fact that it was set in Glasgow. That was the only downside, oh and the unfortunate fact the book ends on a cliffhanger.
March 18, 2023
This is a fantastic read that blends multiple genres together. A story that has elements of sci-fi, romance, thriller, and fantasy to make it a book that captivated me from the off. Never mind the time travel that I always find so intriguing!
With characters so vivid that I could see them in my minds eye, and a plot with plenty of twists. I powered through Before Again. It's so cleverly woven together that it has darker moments, and there were times when I almost laughed out loud!
I will definitely be adding this author's books to my tbr pile after reading this book. It was so well written and entertaining!
Thanks to Love Books Tours and the author for the gifted book so I could write my honest review.
With characters so vivid that I could see them in my minds eye, and a plot with plenty of twists. I powered through Before Again. It's so cleverly woven together that it has darker moments, and there were times when I almost laughed out loud!
I will definitely be adding this author's books to my tbr pile after reading this book. It was so well written and entertaining!
Thanks to Love Books Tours and the author for the gifted book so I could write my honest review.
December 13, 2022
🌆Fast-paced, original, set in urban Scotland
4.0-4.5🌟 stars
The concept and plot of this story are complex and compelling, the characters interesting. On those aspects, I give this work high marks. I was first drawn to the book by its Glasgow setting; Scotland is high on my favored list of locations. The story is advertised as funny, even laugh out loud; I did not get that vibe at all but it did not detract from Kirsty's kicka$$ adventure through time. It ends with a cliffhanger.
A good, entertaining urban time travel fantasy. Will I read the next part of the series? Probably. I am intrigued about how Kirsty will deal with the remaining threats walking Glasgow streets.
4.0-4.5🌟 stars
The concept and plot of this story are complex and compelling, the characters interesting. On those aspects, I give this work high marks. I was first drawn to the book by its Glasgow setting; Scotland is high on my favored list of locations. The story is advertised as funny, even laugh out loud; I did not get that vibe at all but it did not detract from Kirsty's kicka$$ adventure through time. It ends with a cliffhanger.
A good, entertaining urban time travel fantasy. Will I read the next part of the series? Probably. I am intrigued about how Kirsty will deal with the remaining threats walking Glasgow streets.
January 14, 2023
As soon as I heard about this novel being Buffy meets Outlander it piqued my interest and I had to read it.
Although I enjoyed this book, it wasn't quite what I expected.
The world building was written fantastically, the characters was enjoyable and gelled together.
I did find I kept picking this novel up and putting it back down, however that being said as soon as I was 75% in I devoured it. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
The twists, are they gonna get Owen? And that cliff hanger ending omg I didn't see that coming.
I need book 2 please.
I received this novel from the author as part of a book tour.Thank you for my copy!
My review is my honest opinion.
Although I enjoyed this book, it wasn't quite what I expected.
The world building was written fantastically, the characters was enjoyable and gelled together.
I did find I kept picking this novel up and putting it back down, however that being said as soon as I was 75% in I devoured it. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
The twists, are they gonna get Owen? And that cliff hanger ending omg I didn't see that coming.
I need book 2 please.
I received this novel from the author as part of a book tour.Thank you for my copy!
My review is my honest opinion.
February 9, 2023
This was my first book by this author but it definitely wont be my last one. The book is well written with a compelling storyline that spans many genres and well developed characters that I loved, even more so because I think this is the first book I have ever read that has a Kirsty as a protagonist.
Saying I love the characters doesn't quite do it justice, they are a fascinating blend all with their own individual personality and something that makes them loveable and they are full of banter too.
I loved everything about the book even the ending whoch left me wanting to throw my book across the room but also wanting the next installment
Saying I love the characters doesn't quite do it justice, they are a fascinating blend all with their own individual personality and something that makes them loveable and they are full of banter too.
I loved everything about the book even the ending whoch left me wanting to throw my book across the room but also wanting the next installment
January 2, 2023
While I enjoyed this book, it wasn't quite what I expected. I was hoping for a little more humor.
Kirsty, Frej, and Nathan were fun characters to read about. They handled the twists and turns that life threw at them like pros. The plot was intriguing. Admittedly, I knew nothing about Glasgow before going into this book, so the author's familiarity with the region felt like going on a guided tour with someone who spoke my language with a few extra words that I didn't understand thrown in.
The book ended on quite the cliffhanger, and I'm curious to see what happens next.
Kirsty, Frej, and Nathan were fun characters to read about. They handled the twists and turns that life threw at them like pros. The plot was intriguing. Admittedly, I knew nothing about Glasgow before going into this book, so the author's familiarity with the region felt like going on a guided tour with someone who spoke my language with a few extra words that I didn't understand thrown in.
The book ended on quite the cliffhanger, and I'm curious to see what happens next.
January 19, 2023
Before Again is a read that will have you in a paranormal and fantasy combination and loving every minute of it. I was so excited to read this when learning of Kirsty's life and what she inevitably ends up having to do. This was so much fun to read, I couldn't wait to find out what happened next.
Duffy has given readers time to laugh and consume a book in one sitting. This is a read everyone needs to get! You will love the characters and the storyline. And this is only book one, there's more to read!!
Duffy has given readers time to laugh and consume a book in one sitting. This is a read everyone needs to get! You will love the characters and the storyline. And this is only book one, there's more to read!!
February 24, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. When something is described as Game of Thrones with vikings, I have very high high expectations, and this book did not disappoint.
I was pulled in, from the start, wondering just where the story might be taking me. I wasn’t sure how it would wind, and just when I thought I had it sussed, we got through a wee surprise or two. I found myself completely drawn into the story, wanting to know what might be next.
Overall, this was a brilliant read, where you will connect with and get to know the main character and honestly love the story as a whole.
I was pulled in, from the start, wondering just where the story might be taking me. I wasn’t sure how it would wind, and just when I thought I had it sussed, we got through a wee surprise or two. I found myself completely drawn into the story, wanting to know what might be next.
Overall, this was a brilliant read, where you will connect with and get to know the main character and honestly love the story as a whole.
January 14, 2023
I actually quite enjoyed this book more than I thought I was going to.
The world building and time travel element was really good. Coming from Scotland, it was refreshing to read popular terms and phrases and the humourous banter and inner monologue of Kirsty's.
Nathan and Frej were great side characters with their histories and family ties and with that cliff hanger ending, I look forward to reading book two!
The world building and time travel element was really good. Coming from Scotland, it was refreshing to read popular terms and phrases and the humourous banter and inner monologue of Kirsty's.
Nathan and Frej were great side characters with their histories and family ties and with that cliff hanger ending, I look forward to reading book two!
March 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this story and felt the plot was a very interesting one. Kirsty was a fantastic character and I enjoyed watching her go through the adventure. Although the ending has certainly left me wanting more! The writing described the setting so well I could see it in my minds eye. I loved how it made obscure events and time travel seem ever so plausible too. A great read which I think has something in it for everyone to enjoy!
February 27, 2023
O M G you have to read this
Talk about oblivious and you have Kirsty in a nutshell. The author draws you in, you think ok this is going pretty good, then the next you know you are at the end saying "What just happened?" I have to have Book 2 like right now
Talk about oblivious and you have Kirsty in a nutshell. The author draws you in, you think ok this is going pretty good, then the next you know you are at the end saying "What just happened?" I have to have Book 2 like right now
January 16, 2023
Review on the way
As a place holder, let me just say I adored this and I need the sequel now
As a place holder, let me just say I adored this and I need the sequel now
January 22, 2023
Kirsty doesn't do people, but even she can't ignore the man being roasted alive on the banks of the Clyde. She Batters in to save his life... and accidently tears the fabric of time. Now an ancient serial killer is on the loose and only Kirsty can make him regret he was ever born.
Well, I bloody loved this book! I honestly had no idea of what I was diving into when I started this book, but I was initially attracted to it because of the Glasgow setting, as it's nice to read a book with a homeland location. That and the tearing the fabric of time had me intrigued.
I love Kirsty, she's 100% my kinda gal, no B/S , independent and looking to live her life in the best way she can, raised by her gran after the loss of her parents, she's not been home to Glasgow for 19 years when she gets the devasting news of her gran's passing. She makes her way back to the land of her youth when some extremely unusual events occur. Kirsty witnesses a man being burned alive, jumps in to save him and somehow manages to jump forward over a year in time. She meets some other unusual characters from the past, present and some nefarious characters who keep coming back....
This book just keeps you pulled in, there's not a single boring moment as the plot is so twisty and the supporting characters are just fantastic, funny and likeable.
A wee cliff-hanger ending has me not so patiently waiting for more.
I read this as a read along with @lovebooktours and many thanks to Claire D. Duffy for the chance to read this book.
The wee book lady. xxx
Well, I bloody loved this book! I honestly had no idea of what I was diving into when I started this book, but I was initially attracted to it because of the Glasgow setting, as it's nice to read a book with a homeland location. That and the tearing the fabric of time had me intrigued.
I love Kirsty, she's 100% my kinda gal, no B/S , independent and looking to live her life in the best way she can, raised by her gran after the loss of her parents, she's not been home to Glasgow for 19 years when she gets the devasting news of her gran's passing. She makes her way back to the land of her youth when some extremely unusual events occur. Kirsty witnesses a man being burned alive, jumps in to save him and somehow manages to jump forward over a year in time. She meets some other unusual characters from the past, present and some nefarious characters who keep coming back....
This book just keeps you pulled in, there's not a single boring moment as the plot is so twisty and the supporting characters are just fantastic, funny and likeable.
A wee cliff-hanger ending has me not so patiently waiting for more.
I read this as a read along with @lovebooktours and many thanks to Claire D. Duffy for the chance to read this book.
The wee book lady. xxx
January 21, 2023
This was an enjoyable read with lots of different characters. I struggled to keep up at times but the twists and turns were fab!
The descriptions of Glasgow were good and really set the scene. A lot of the dialogue is in a Scottish accent which adds to the story but there were a few parts I didn’t understand.
The ending was such a cliff hanger and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
The descriptions of Glasgow were good and really set the scene. A lot of the dialogue is in a Scottish accent which adds to the story but there were a few parts I didn’t understand.
The ending was such a cliff hanger and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
January 20, 2023
I really enjoyed this one. Set over multiple timelines and each era written extremely well. Kirsty I’d a great main character, full of life and surprises. She ends up with an unlikely gang of help, bought together from all times and walks of life.
There’s plenty of humour, sarcasm and adventure within this book. New characters introduced all the way through and some right ones at that!!
I can’t wait to read the next as this is the first of a series I’m happy to say.
There’s plenty of humour, sarcasm and adventure within this book. New characters introduced all the way through and some right ones at that!!
I can’t wait to read the next as this is the first of a series I’m happy to say.
January 9, 2023
This book had me at Buffy meets Outlander with a dash of Taggart and it lived up to the hype!
I really enjoyed the book and I really like Kirsty she was funny, fiesty and all round kickass though Frej maybe my favourite (who doesn't like a sexy yet sensitive viking?) And Owen is a brilliant villain!
The plot was really good and definitely kept me guessing and with that cliffhanger I can't wait for book 2 to see what happens next
I really enjoyed the book and I really like Kirsty she was funny, fiesty and all round kickass though Frej maybe my favourite (who doesn't like a sexy yet sensitive viking?) And Owen is a brilliant villain!
The plot was really good and definitely kept me guessing and with that cliffhanger I can't wait for book 2 to see what happens next
January 26, 2023
The synopsis tells us there’s an ancient serial killer on the loose, so how could you not expect me to read it 🤷🏻♀️ I really enjoyed the mystery aspect of the story, and the characters felt so real, especially Kirsty, the main character, I found her to be quite relatable.
I really liked the little detective group they created, it felt like I was joining them on the search for the killer. The author did an amazing job putting Glasgow into words, despite never having been there, I now feel familiar with it.
This is the first book in The Shadow City series and with that ending I now need to read the second haha I NEED to know what happens next.
I really liked the little detective group they created, it felt like I was joining them on the search for the killer. The author did an amazing job putting Glasgow into words, despite never having been there, I now feel familiar with it.
This is the first book in The Shadow City series and with that ending I now need to read the second haha I NEED to know what happens next.
February 18, 2023
I went in with and excited open mind - time hops, vikings and immortal serial killers in modern day Glasgow certainly attracted my attention.
We meet Kirsty, the protagonist, when she returns from her travels to her childhood home in Glasgow to attend the funeral of her beloved Grandmother Morag. Things get weird, then weirder for Kirsty as throughout the book she slips through time, befriends a viking and sets out to defeat an unstoppable serial killer.
Kirsty as a character is strong, fiercely loyal to those she cares about, but a little damaged. She's likeable but I wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of her. I love Frej the viking! The characters are well written and I love the setting. I recently visited Glasgow for the fist time so it was great to be able to visualise some of the places in the book.
The story was well paced with a great mix of intrigue, suspense, magic realism, family dramas and friendship. I really enjoyed the book and will definitely look out for more by the author
We meet Kirsty, the protagonist, when she returns from her travels to her childhood home in Glasgow to attend the funeral of her beloved Grandmother Morag. Things get weird, then weirder for Kirsty as throughout the book she slips through time, befriends a viking and sets out to defeat an unstoppable serial killer.
Kirsty as a character is strong, fiercely loyal to those she cares about, but a little damaged. She's likeable but I wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of her. I love Frej the viking! The characters are well written and I love the setting. I recently visited Glasgow for the fist time so it was great to be able to visualise some of the places in the book.
The story was well paced with a great mix of intrigue, suspense, magic realism, family dramas and friendship. I really enjoyed the book and will definitely look out for more by the author
January 8, 2023
Thank you @lovebooktours and @fikabooksclarie for letting me part of this tour and reviewing this book. Before Again is not gener i usually read about time travel but I really enjoyed it and it intrigued me what was going on with Kirsty and her grandma death. I felt like i was on rollcoster with Kirsty and the more I read i found out more sbout the time travelling. The chapters are not very long and I tead it in a day. The story gripped me snd looking forward to the second book. It is fast paced and kept me hooked . I never read any of Clarie books before but definatly will read more of her books in the future. 5 stars
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