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Shadow Walker
Sarah Rivera has a lot going on in her life right now. It’s bad enough that she’s being shipped off to Temt Tchaas Academy—also known as Neteru Academy, a high school for future Guardians of the Light who have special powers—but she has to go there with her cocky twin brother and the rest of her compound brothers and sisters. To make matters worse, everyone has ridiculous expectations of her all because her parents are like supernatural rock stars for saving the planet sixteen years ago. But what nobody, not even her best girlfriend Tami seems to be getting is the fact that, she’s not special, doesn’t want to be a demon-hunting hero, and is even afraid of the dark!So what that her mother was a warrior angel and her Dad used to be a Council level Vampire? Opposites attract. Go figure. As far as Sarah is concerned, all she got from the combination was a pair of fangs that lengthen at inappropriate times to embarrass her in front of her secret crush; whereas her brother, Alejandro, got the good looks and cool wings. However, what her parents’ status has created is drama in her life, by ensuring that the mean girls at school will make her life a living nightmare. Sarah knows her family’s renowned slayer reputation will also ensure that everyone at school will assume she had it easy and should be able to do everything her famous rebel parents can do, when she can’t. Not by a long shot. Once at the hidden boarding school, things go from bad to worse as Sarah tries to fit in. Her nightmares increase and it isn’t just anxiety—her second sight is suddenly developing at a record pace. Layers of secrets are held by the building, held by her parents, and nothing is as it seems. There is something really bad going on at the school, worse than bad—deadly. Only, faculty and administrators don’t know where to begin to look for the cause as students start to disappear. Sarah must then make a choice to stand on the sidelines or to help use her gifts to save someone dear. But to do that means facing all of her greatest fears, along with a demon or two.HISTORYSixteen years prior to the end of days, two Neterus, along with a Neteru Guardian team, known as The Warriors of Light, fought shoulder to shoulder with Guardian teams around the world. Although they vanquished the Ultimate Evil it still came back with insidious vengeance, taking over all the war-ravaged countries slowly but surely. Those who fought against it were hunted, but those brave men and women of the resistance kept the faith and honed their skills, always at the ready to save humanity from demonic forces.Children of these brave warriors will one day take their parents places in the ongoing struggle. But until that time, they must become adept at using the special talents they were born with and must be kept out of harm's way while their parents continue to fight for justice. Hence the Neteru Academy (a.k.a. Temt Tchaas Academy - meaning sacred texts) was born. Secreted away in the Appalachian Mountains, this magic-glamoured pyramid that was relocated from the Mayan ruins as well as the capstone taken from Egypt during the big war hides the entrance to a forgotten bunker left over from the old 1950s cold war between the United States and Russia. Originally built by President Dwight Eisenhower, the actual school is underground and is housed in what was to then be a fall-out shelter for the executive branches of the American government in the event of a nuclear catastrophe. But it never came to that. The big war everyone feared was not between rival nations, but rival worlds. The conflict between the Light and the darkness unleashed plagues, and vampires, werewolves, zombies, and all manner of demons. It created refugees amongst both the human and supernatural populations.
502 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 11, 2010
41 people are currently reading
813 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Banks
59 books1,264 followersA pseudonym used by Leslie Esdaile Banks, she also wrote under the names:
Leslie E. Banks
Leslie Esdaile
Leslie Esdaile Banks
Leslie Banks
Alexis Grant
L.A. Banks, a native Philadelphian, was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Wharton undergraduate program. With many awards to her credit, Banks also held a masters of fine arts degree in film and media arts from Temple University. She lived in Philadelphia with her family until she passed away on the morning of August 2, 2011.
Visit L.A. Banks' page on the Macmillan website: http://us.macmillan.com/author/labanks
Leslie E. Banks
Leslie Esdaile
Leslie Esdaile Banks
Leslie Banks
Alexis Grant
L.A. Banks, a native Philadelphian, was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Wharton undergraduate program. With many awards to her credit, Banks also held a masters of fine arts degree in film and media arts from Temple University. She lived in Philadelphia with her family until she passed away on the morning of August 2, 2011.
Visit L.A. Banks' page on the Macmillan website: http://us.macmillan.com/author/labanks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 11, 2011
No worries, this is totally spoiler free. It's been a while since I wrote a review...but L.A.Banks has pulled me out of my review writing funk! I LOVED this book. It threw me back to the Vampire Huntress series. It was so well told and I was excited to see the characters we loved so much from that series make cameos in the new book. I loved the kids too, the new generation of guardians are so fun to read. Even though they are too defending the world from evil, they all have their own unique personalities and traits. It doesn’t seem like we are reading a remix of the old Huntress series. Its fresh. Even though it’s an YA book, I didn't feel like it was too child like at all. A bit of the themes are kind of similar to the Huntress series, which kept it from being too "young". Plus the kids are older teens, so they deal with a lot of issues that kids that age deal with in regards to parents, relationships, dealing with authority. All of it. I read this book in 2 days in my free time. I didn't want to put it down! I can’t wait for the next one!
EDIT: I'm saddened that Ms.Banks isn't able to share more of her writing genius with us, she was a very talented writer. She will be missed.
EDIT: I'm saddened that Ms.Banks isn't able to share more of her writing genius with us, she was a very talented writer. She will be missed.
December 4, 2013
Wow! The main character, Sarah is likeable,and begins to grow on you as she discovers her way in school, her worth, and her powers. But she isn't the only interesting character, this book has many and they are all given just enough depth for you to either like them or not. There is never a dull moment, although there is a lot of information given throughout regarding the world that is being built. This world includes a multitude of races, mixes of paranormal beings gifts/curses in many of the characters, with a bit of mystery, touch of romance, and lots of drama thrown in. The characters do use slang, which is not typical for some YA books but it works to make it unique and likeable, and this one fits the kids perfectly.
Okay, I so feel like this book was a steal for just $3.99. This book would be about 398 pages or more if it was in print. If you like Vampire, paranormal books, and demon slayer books for adults or teens, you will love this.
Okay, I so feel like this book was a steal for just $3.99. This book would be about 398 pages or more if it was in print. If you like Vampire, paranormal books, and demon slayer books for adults or teens, you will love this.
May 6, 2013
It was so very wonderful to have the old characters back,even if for a short time, felt so familiar. And getting to know their children...wow! Couldn't put it down. Laugh out loud. Now all I have to do is PRAY that she writes the next one!!!
January 19, 2021
Awesome
Great read. I fell in love with the twins. I already follow the story and to see my power couple we with a family makes me love the story all the more.
Great read. I fell in love with the twins. I already follow the story and to see my power couple we with a family makes me love the story all the more.
February 7, 2011
In this world, several beings from the light fight creatures from the dark. Even though this world sounds very simplistically black and white, it is far from that. In fact, easy labels are discouraged within the academy that these future guardian's of the light attend and friend and foe are not easily recognized by human sight. This, of course, made me fascinated by the world L A Banks has created. It is also a mixture of mythologies which includes religions of new and old as well as schools of thought like physics. It is a fascinating mixture of cultures.
Within this world, one major fight during Armageddon has been won and they are preparing for the next biggest fight. The gardians speculate the war they are awaiting is the true Armageddon, since the earlier fight was forced ahead of schedule. The story follows Sarah's POV so things are revealed as she learns about them. She is the daughter of the two highest ranking guardian's of the light. Her gifts have not come to full fruition and she seems scared of everything. However, once in the academy, things start to change. Oh, and I knew I was going to like Sarah as soon as she met bullies at the academy.
Nothing got her blood boiling like bullying. She might not fight for herself all the time, but seeing some weaker kid being picked on made her snap and go ballistic.
Of course when I read this line, I knew I'd be connected to Sarah and enjoy the world through her eyes.
I will admit, however, that at times you knew that something was going to happen, and you wanted the book to just get on with telling that exciting part of the tale. At other times I was seeing the wonder of the academy through Sarah's eyes and just wanted to linger and enjoy that part of the book. As for what happened, what had happened before they got to the academy, and how it ended... well, my *evil laugh* should explain that I won't reveal anything. I will tell you that I give this book 4 stars and recommend it to those that enjoy a YA UF where there is a small side of romance. It is more about Sarah's journey and I am curious as to where she takes us next.
Within this world, one major fight during Armageddon has been won and they are preparing for the next biggest fight. The gardians speculate the war they are awaiting is the true Armageddon, since the earlier fight was forced ahead of schedule. The story follows Sarah's POV so things are revealed as she learns about them. She is the daughter of the two highest ranking guardian's of the light. Her gifts have not come to full fruition and she seems scared of everything. However, once in the academy, things start to change. Oh, and I knew I was going to like Sarah as soon as she met bullies at the academy.
Nothing got her blood boiling like bullying. She might not fight for herself all the time, but seeing some weaker kid being picked on made her snap and go ballistic.
Of course when I read this line, I knew I'd be connected to Sarah and enjoy the world through her eyes.
I will admit, however, that at times you knew that something was going to happen, and you wanted the book to just get on with telling that exciting part of the tale. At other times I was seeing the wonder of the academy through Sarah's eyes and just wanted to linger and enjoy that part of the book. As for what happened, what had happened before they got to the academy, and how it ended... well, my *evil laugh* should explain that I won't reveal anything. I will tell you that I give this book 4 stars and recommend it to those that enjoy a YA UF where there is a small side of romance. It is more about Sarah's journey and I am curious as to where she takes us next.
April 25, 2014
Rest In Peace
I chose this rating because I was completely engrossed in the reading. Leslie has worked her magic once again and crafted an unforgettable tale. Her literary skill will surely be missed...I so looked forward to reading the next installment in what could have been another worthwhile series. Alas, L.A. Banks was taken entirely too soon and her writing will greatly be missed in this genre. I will now re-read the vampire huntress legend and try to picture the unfinished narrative of Sarah Rivera, the Shadow Walker.
I chose this rating because I was completely engrossed in the reading. Leslie has worked her magic once again and crafted an unforgettable tale. Her literary skill will surely be missed...I so looked forward to reading the next installment in what could have been another worthwhile series. Alas, L.A. Banks was taken entirely too soon and her writing will greatly be missed in this genre. I will now re-read the vampire huntress legend and try to picture the unfinished narrative of Sarah Rivera, the Shadow Walker.
December 3, 2023
From the world of L.A. Banks’ popular world of the Vampire Hunter Legends, comes a new young adult series following in the adult versions footsteps. Shadow Walker, the debut novel in the Neteru Academy series is an imaginative and enthralling novel that foretells of the epic battle between Light and Dark, introducing the new breed of Guardians who will protect humanity. Told with truly captivating prose, this novel brought to life a world and cast of characters that were instantly endearing and one of a kind showing exactly why this author’s work has been so hugely successful.
The world building is initially what drew me in. While this was my first time stumbling into Banks’ writing, I was instantly drawn into the history and lore of the Vampire Huntress Legens series. Down to the smallest details, this world is brought to life with epic battles and fascinating creatures that haven’t been dreamt of since Harry Potter, and if ever there was a series capable of matching that particular franchise, this could quite possibly be it. The blending of mythologies and science was truly captivating as Banks describes a world left in chaos after the ascension of the Darkness. Everywhere danger may be lurking, which is only made more palpable by students going missing out of one of the most well guarded buildings left in all of the world. This sets a fast paced tone that propels the characters on a mission not only to save their fellow students, but the school as well.
The characters themselves were instantly identifiable, with a group dynamic that was wonderfully written which truly made this into a spectacular ensemble read. The group dynamics mirror the angst of the main characters which only serves to make the story more compelling as you root for the characters to come together and work out their growing differences. While all of the characters are highly developed and engaging, the story follows Sarah Rivera, a smart and compassionate protagonist who cares deeply for those around her. The daughter of famous warriors Demali and Carlos Rivera, she is thrust into the limelight to suffer through the embarrassment and inner pain of simply having to endure a place within their shadow after being prophesized to become one of the predominant warriors in the next apocalyptic battle. The feelings of inadequacy plague her as she endures being sent into the new environment of the academy which ultimately sets up a fount of emotions as she deals with feelings such as exclusion, lust, and self worth. Likewise, many of her compound siblings also suffer with the feelings of fitting in within a new environment as well as coming to terms with their own individuality outside of their accepted ‘familial’ group. Peer pressure and budding romance serve as only a few of the underlying messages the author tries to impart to readers, making this novel not only dramatic but relevant as the attributes of kindness and consideration are presented to the reader.
The romance development within the novel also deserves quite a bit of mention as well because there is no doubt that Banks’ knows how to write it. From almost the beginning chemistry is brought into play as Sarah is put in the position of experiencing her first feelings of desire for not only her compound brother Val, but for Wil, a friendly and encouraging ally in the social minefield of the Academy. With two amazing suitors that she feels strongly towards, Sarah is drawn into an angst ridden battle between her heart and soul as she tries to decide how to deal with her feelings towards the two equally alluring males in her life.
But, underlying all of this is a great sense of adventure in a world where nothing is ever truly as it seems. The masterfully created action scenes within were colorfully written making them vivid and quite visceral as the students and Guardians alike struggle to find the missing students. The surrounding mystery was full of some amazing twists that I never saw coming and some realizations that made encompassed the phrase ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. The steady buildup through out the novel is perfectly led into a quick but creative climax and left the world ripe for yet another round of drama within the next installment which I can’t wait to read!
Overall, this was a great heart warming novel that kept me enthralled with its imagery and world development. The characters were interesting and endearing and the romance was maddening. With so many things left to explore it can easily be surmised that the following novels will be equally if not more amazing then the first. Fans of urban fantasy, paranormal romance and young adult novels with a heavy focus on a character’s journey will absolutely love this!
The world building is initially what drew me in. While this was my first time stumbling into Banks’ writing, I was instantly drawn into the history and lore of the Vampire Huntress Legens series. Down to the smallest details, this world is brought to life with epic battles and fascinating creatures that haven’t been dreamt of since Harry Potter, and if ever there was a series capable of matching that particular franchise, this could quite possibly be it. The blending of mythologies and science was truly captivating as Banks describes a world left in chaos after the ascension of the Darkness. Everywhere danger may be lurking, which is only made more palpable by students going missing out of one of the most well guarded buildings left in all of the world. This sets a fast paced tone that propels the characters on a mission not only to save their fellow students, but the school as well.
The characters themselves were instantly identifiable, with a group dynamic that was wonderfully written which truly made this into a spectacular ensemble read. The group dynamics mirror the angst of the main characters which only serves to make the story more compelling as you root for the characters to come together and work out their growing differences. While all of the characters are highly developed and engaging, the story follows Sarah Rivera, a smart and compassionate protagonist who cares deeply for those around her. The daughter of famous warriors Demali and Carlos Rivera, she is thrust into the limelight to suffer through the embarrassment and inner pain of simply having to endure a place within their shadow after being prophesized to become one of the predominant warriors in the next apocalyptic battle. The feelings of inadequacy plague her as she endures being sent into the new environment of the academy which ultimately sets up a fount of emotions as she deals with feelings such as exclusion, lust, and self worth. Likewise, many of her compound siblings also suffer with the feelings of fitting in within a new environment as well as coming to terms with their own individuality outside of their accepted ‘familial’ group. Peer pressure and budding romance serve as only a few of the underlying messages the author tries to impart to readers, making this novel not only dramatic but relevant as the attributes of kindness and consideration are presented to the reader.
The romance development within the novel also deserves quite a bit of mention as well because there is no doubt that Banks’ knows how to write it. From almost the beginning chemistry is brought into play as Sarah is put in the position of experiencing her first feelings of desire for not only her compound brother Val, but for Wil, a friendly and encouraging ally in the social minefield of the Academy. With two amazing suitors that she feels strongly towards, Sarah is drawn into an angst ridden battle between her heart and soul as she tries to decide how to deal with her feelings towards the two equally alluring males in her life.
But, underlying all of this is a great sense of adventure in a world where nothing is ever truly as it seems. The masterfully created action scenes within were colorfully written making them vivid and quite visceral as the students and Guardians alike struggle to find the missing students. The surrounding mystery was full of some amazing twists that I never saw coming and some realizations that made encompassed the phrase ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. The steady buildup through out the novel is perfectly led into a quick but creative climax and left the world ripe for yet another round of drama within the next installment which I can’t wait to read!
Overall, this was a great heart warming novel that kept me enthralled with its imagery and world development. The characters were interesting and endearing and the romance was maddening. With so many things left to explore it can easily be surmised that the following novels will be equally if not more amazing then the first. Fans of urban fantasy, paranormal romance and young adult novels with a heavy focus on a character’s journey will absolutely love this!
March 9, 2024
captivating
Having read every Neteru story L.A. Banks wrote, I KNEW the next installment would keep me heavily invested. I wish the series was completed before her passing because I really wanted to see how she would conclude the saga. Nevertheless, I was reeled in from start to finish. The character developments, the introduction of the school and to see how the Nod refugees were doing really brought tears to my eyes.
Having read every Neteru story L.A. Banks wrote, I KNEW the next installment would keep me heavily invested. I wish the series was completed before her passing because I really wanted to see how she would conclude the saga. Nevertheless, I was reeled in from start to finish. The character developments, the introduction of the school and to see how the Nod refugees were doing really brought tears to my eyes.
July 26, 2024
This is one of my favorite authors last works and it was an awesome read. It was magical and I wish there was more to come. This book brings a sort of closure to Damali and Carlos adventures to a close.
Want to read
April 26, 2019*To Read*
Thoughts:
I read another series by this author and was excited to see a YA spinoff.
Thoughts:
I read another series by this author and was excited to see a YA spinoff.
May 25, 2019
Loved it! Wish there was more in the series!
January 18, 2021
Love This Series
Loved Sarah, Alejandro, Tami, Hyacinth, Allie and most of all Val. I hate to see this series and due to the death of the Author, may she forever Rest In Peace
Loved Sarah, Alejandro, Tami, Hyacinth, Allie and most of all Val. I hate to see this series and due to the death of the Author, may she forever Rest In Peace
Read
May 7, 2022I wish there was more
March 21, 2011
Review provided by Black Lagoon Reviews:
From the world of L.A. Banks’ popular world of the Vampire Hunter Legends, comes a new young adult series following in the adult versions footsteps. Shadow Walker, the debut novel in the Neteru Academy series is an imaginative and enthralling novel that foretells of the epic battle between Light and Dark, introducing the new breed of Guardians who will protect humanity. Told with truly captivating prose, this novel brought to life a world and cast of characters that were instantly endearing and one of a kind showing exactly why this author’s work has been so hugely successful.
The world building is initially what drew me in. While this was my first time stumbling into Banks’ writing, I was instantly drawn into the history and lore of the Vampire Huntress Legens series. Down to the smallest details, this world is brought to life with epic battles and fascinating creatures that haven’t been dreamt of since Harry Potter, and if ever there was a series capable of matching that particular franchise, this could quite possibly be it. The blending of mythologies and science was truly captivating as Banks describes a world left in chaos after the ascension of the Darkness. Everywhere danger may be lurking, which is only made more palpable by students going missing out of one of the most well guarded buildings left in all of the world. This sets a fast paced tone that propels the characters on a mission not only to save their fellow students, but the school as well.
The characters themselves were instantly identifiable, with a group dynamic that was wonderfully written which truly made this into a spectacular ensemble read. The group dynamics mirror the angst of the main characters which only serves to make the story more compelling as you root for the characters to come together and work out their growing differences. While all of the characters are highly developed and engaging, the story follows Sarah Rivera, a smart and compassionate protagonist who cares deeply for those around her. The daughter of famous warriors Demali and Carlos Rivera, she is thrust into the limelight to suffer through the embarrassment and inner pain of simply having to endure a place within their shadow after being prophesized to become one of the predominant warriors in the next apocalyptic battle. The feelings of inadequacy plague her as she endures being sent into the new environment of the academy which ultimately sets up a fount of emotions as she deals with feelings such as exclusion, lust, and self worth. Likewise, many of her compound siblings also suffer with the feelings of fitting in within a new environment as well as coming to terms with their own individuality outside of their accepted ‘familial’ group. Peer pressure and budding romance serve as only a few of the underlying messages the author tries to impart to readers, making this novel not only dramatic but relevant as the attributes of kindness and consideration are presented to the reader.
The romance development within the novel also deserves quite a bit of mention as well because there is no doubt that Banks’ knows how to write it. From almost the beginning chemistry is brought into play as Sarah is put in the position of experiencing her first feelings of desire for not only her compound brother Val, but for Wil, a friendly and encouraging ally in the social minefield of the Academy. With two amazing suitors that she feels strongly towards, Sarah is drawn into an angst ridden battle between her heart and soul as she tries to decide how to deal with her feelings towards the two equally alluring males in her life.
But, underlying all of this is a great sense of adventure in a world where nothing is ever truly as it seems. The masterfully created action scenes within were colorfully written making them vivid and quite visceral as the students and Guardians alike struggle to find the missing students. The surrounding mystery was full of some amazing twists that I never saw coming and some realizations that made encompassed the phrase ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. The steady buildup through out the novel is perfectly led into a quick but creative climax and left the world ripe for yet another round of drama within the next installment which I can’t wait to read!
Overall, this was a great heart warming novel that kept me enthralled with its imagery and world development. The characters were interesting and endearing and the romance was maddening. With so many things left to explore it can easily be surmised that the following novels will be equally if not more amazing then the first. Fans of urban fantasy, paranormal romance and young adult novels with a heavy focus on a character’s journey will absolutely love this!
From the world of L.A. Banks’ popular world of the Vampire Hunter Legends, comes a new young adult series following in the adult versions footsteps. Shadow Walker, the debut novel in the Neteru Academy series is an imaginative and enthralling novel that foretells of the epic battle between Light and Dark, introducing the new breed of Guardians who will protect humanity. Told with truly captivating prose, this novel brought to life a world and cast of characters that were instantly endearing and one of a kind showing exactly why this author’s work has been so hugely successful.
The world building is initially what drew me in. While this was my first time stumbling into Banks’ writing, I was instantly drawn into the history and lore of the Vampire Huntress Legens series. Down to the smallest details, this world is brought to life with epic battles and fascinating creatures that haven’t been dreamt of since Harry Potter, and if ever there was a series capable of matching that particular franchise, this could quite possibly be it. The blending of mythologies and science was truly captivating as Banks describes a world left in chaos after the ascension of the Darkness. Everywhere danger may be lurking, which is only made more palpable by students going missing out of one of the most well guarded buildings left in all of the world. This sets a fast paced tone that propels the characters on a mission not only to save their fellow students, but the school as well.
The characters themselves were instantly identifiable, with a group dynamic that was wonderfully written which truly made this into a spectacular ensemble read. The group dynamics mirror the angst of the main characters which only serves to make the story more compelling as you root for the characters to come together and work out their growing differences. While all of the characters are highly developed and engaging, the story follows Sarah Rivera, a smart and compassionate protagonist who cares deeply for those around her. The daughter of famous warriors Demali and Carlos Rivera, she is thrust into the limelight to suffer through the embarrassment and inner pain of simply having to endure a place within their shadow after being prophesized to become one of the predominant warriors in the next apocalyptic battle. The feelings of inadequacy plague her as she endures being sent into the new environment of the academy which ultimately sets up a fount of emotions as she deals with feelings such as exclusion, lust, and self worth. Likewise, many of her compound siblings also suffer with the feelings of fitting in within a new environment as well as coming to terms with their own individuality outside of their accepted ‘familial’ group. Peer pressure and budding romance serve as only a few of the underlying messages the author tries to impart to readers, making this novel not only dramatic but relevant as the attributes of kindness and consideration are presented to the reader.
The romance development within the novel also deserves quite a bit of mention as well because there is no doubt that Banks’ knows how to write it. From almost the beginning chemistry is brought into play as Sarah is put in the position of experiencing her first feelings of desire for not only her compound brother Val, but for Wil, a friendly and encouraging ally in the social minefield of the Academy. With two amazing suitors that she feels strongly towards, Sarah is drawn into an angst ridden battle between her heart and soul as she tries to decide how to deal with her feelings towards the two equally alluring males in her life.
But, underlying all of this is a great sense of adventure in a world where nothing is ever truly as it seems. The masterfully created action scenes within were colorfully written making them vivid and quite visceral as the students and Guardians alike struggle to find the missing students. The surrounding mystery was full of some amazing twists that I never saw coming and some realizations that made encompassed the phrase ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. The steady buildup through out the novel is perfectly led into a quick but creative climax and left the world ripe for yet another round of drama within the next installment which I can’t wait to read!
Overall, this was a great heart warming novel that kept me enthralled with its imagery and world development. The characters were interesting and endearing and the romance was maddening. With so many things left to explore it can easily be surmised that the following novels will be equally if not more amazing then the first. Fans of urban fantasy, paranormal romance and young adult novels with a heavy focus on a character’s journey will absolutely love this!
February 25, 2011
This review was first posted on http://www.rubysreads.com.
Many of you are already familiar with my obsession with Private School Paranormals. It was that, as much as a desire to try out the renowned L.A. Banks' writing style, that led me to give this book a try. The weighty description gives you an idea of the way Shadow Walker rolls. It's a meaty tome. There's lots going on in it, though the events of the book occur in a relatively short amount of time. Most of the story is told from Sarah's perspective, although the p.o.v. is not first person. As a narrator, Sarah is believably conflicted. I can't imagine how incredibly hard it must be to be the children of two people who have saved the world. I mean, how are you supposed to improve on that one? How are you supposed to feel like you've ever done anything with your life, even if you join the Peace Corps, Doctors Without Borders and The Red Cross? The potential for an inferiority complex is huge here.
But Sarah is the heroine so, while she does deal with some feelings of inadequacy, she's destined for her own acts of greatness. In the beginning of the story, Sarah is uncertain of her powers and jealous of her twin, who is already demonstrating the greatness of their parents. The major symbol of this fact is that Sarah has been named a "Blend." Being a blend means that you have no particular talent. Or, that it's yet to be discovered. By the epilogue, Sarah has learned what she needs to know--about herself, and others--that will lead her to be the kind of great leader her mother was.
Shadow Walker didn't grab me right off. To be honest, Sarah wasn't my favorite kind of character. She has flaws--like getting an enormous zit the day she starts at the Academy--but she always does the right thing. She stands up to bullies, she defends the weak, and doesn't let her best-friend run her down. Which, okay, should all be positive stuff but, honestly--all that perfection becomes irritating. Sarah's loyal. Sarah's kind. Sarah's attractive to two boys. She doesn't like guys who are jerks. When you find yourself hoping that the main character will just mess something up for once, you know you've got a problem.
I also felt a lot lost whenever the book returned to the events that must have taken place in the Vampire Huntress books. I'd thought that Banks would assume that, like me, her YA readers probably haven't read her adult fiction, and fill us in a little. I suspect, however, that the only way to truly be filled in is to have read the books. The description of paranormal creatures, people and family relationships would have been better placed at the front of the book. Still, it only tells a small portion of the story--a great deal more is half-related in the course of Shadow Walker.
I was also underwhelmed by Sarah's romantic entanglements. Neither Wil nor Val did much for me. They're both good-looking, but kind of interchangeable. Which doesn't make sense, because Sarah's known Val all her life. And pretty much every guy who wasn't Wil or Val was a jerk. So, that came off as another one of Sarah's perfections: she knows how to pick the good guys.
Having finished Shadow Walker, I have a feeling of apathy. I don't really care about the next stage in Sarah's journey. I was unimpressed with the story-telling and the world-building. Banks probably did all that in the Vampire Huntress books, so that's another thing I missed. Half the time I had some sort of image in my head that the Compound was like a space station. The school, too. Whenever they went off campus, I'd be wondering if they didn't need spacesuits or something. This is what happens to me when I read a book that lacks a resonating setting. I don't think I'm going to be reading anything else by Banks.
Many of you are already familiar with my obsession with Private School Paranormals. It was that, as much as a desire to try out the renowned L.A. Banks' writing style, that led me to give this book a try. The weighty description gives you an idea of the way Shadow Walker rolls. It's a meaty tome. There's lots going on in it, though the events of the book occur in a relatively short amount of time. Most of the story is told from Sarah's perspective, although the p.o.v. is not first person. As a narrator, Sarah is believably conflicted. I can't imagine how incredibly hard it must be to be the children of two people who have saved the world. I mean, how are you supposed to improve on that one? How are you supposed to feel like you've ever done anything with your life, even if you join the Peace Corps, Doctors Without Borders and The Red Cross? The potential for an inferiority complex is huge here.
But Sarah is the heroine so, while she does deal with some feelings of inadequacy, she's destined for her own acts of greatness. In the beginning of the story, Sarah is uncertain of her powers and jealous of her twin, who is already demonstrating the greatness of their parents. The major symbol of this fact is that Sarah has been named a "Blend." Being a blend means that you have no particular talent. Or, that it's yet to be discovered. By the epilogue, Sarah has learned what she needs to know--about herself, and others--that will lead her to be the kind of great leader her mother was.
Shadow Walker didn't grab me right off. To be honest, Sarah wasn't my favorite kind of character. She has flaws--like getting an enormous zit the day she starts at the Academy--but she always does the right thing. She stands up to bullies, she defends the weak, and doesn't let her best-friend run her down. Which, okay, should all be positive stuff but, honestly--all that perfection becomes irritating. Sarah's loyal. Sarah's kind. Sarah's attractive to two boys. She doesn't like guys who are jerks. When you find yourself hoping that the main character will just mess something up for once, you know you've got a problem.
I also felt a lot lost whenever the book returned to the events that must have taken place in the Vampire Huntress books. I'd thought that Banks would assume that, like me, her YA readers probably haven't read her adult fiction, and fill us in a little. I suspect, however, that the only way to truly be filled in is to have read the books. The description of paranormal creatures, people and family relationships would have been better placed at the front of the book. Still, it only tells a small portion of the story--a great deal more is half-related in the course of Shadow Walker.
I was also underwhelmed by Sarah's romantic entanglements. Neither Wil nor Val did much for me. They're both good-looking, but kind of interchangeable. Which doesn't make sense, because Sarah's known Val all her life. And pretty much every guy who wasn't Wil or Val was a jerk. So, that came off as another one of Sarah's perfections: she knows how to pick the good guys.
Having finished Shadow Walker, I have a feeling of apathy. I don't really care about the next stage in Sarah's journey. I was unimpressed with the story-telling and the world-building. Banks probably did all that in the Vampire Huntress books, so that's another thing I missed. Half the time I had some sort of image in my head that the Compound was like a space station. The school, too. Whenever they went off campus, I'd be wondering if they didn't need spacesuits or something. This is what happens to me when I read a book that lacks a resonating setting. I don't think I'm going to be reading anything else by Banks.
December 31, 2015
This book was a little difficult to get into because they were just so many characters introduced right from the beginning and so many uncles and aunts and cousins that it was a little confusing. To be perfectly honest, it wasn’t until I finished the book and read the glossary on the Neteru compound families that I really understood who everyone was. Obviously, I knew the main character and her inner circle of family and friends but then there were the outer family and friends that I wasn’t so sure about.
Regardless of that confusing, I honestly really enjoyed this book. I realized after reading the book that there was actually a whole series about Sarah’s mom, Damali, and her generation of Neteru team. I was thinking of picking up that series as well just because I enjoyed this book but after reading some of the current/top reviews of the first few novels, I might end up skipping it. Plus I have way too many other books I need to read anyways.
Also, I just realized upon further inspection that the author, L.A. Banks died about a year after this book was published which actually makes a lot of sense because it felt as if this book could have turned into a series but obviously, it didn’t. I wish it did though because I now feel invested with some of these characters and want to learn more about them. Unfortunately life is not fair.
Sarah, the main character in this book, was someone I 80% liked and enjoyed reading about and 20% thought she was annoying. Why? Mainly because of her personality sometimes – while I enjoyed her loyalty to her friends and family, I found her inability to understand where some of her friends were coming from annoying. In a way, I thought she was a little stuck up and worst part was that she didn’t even realize it. She felt it upon herself to meddle in her friend’s affair and even stalked her friend to make sure she was fine. Okay, yes, obviously you should care about your friend but there is that line between caring and smothering and I don’t think she realized that. Other than that though, I thought she was pretty cool. Plus, she came into some kickass abilities that were pretty awesome.
The one downside to this book was the language and writing style. I’m not sure if it was because the author was black but a lot of the lingo used here were very slang and ghetto. I found it odd because this book is set after the Armageddon which meant that somehow slang and ghetto terminology survived while proper and normal English didn’t? I honestly found the language to be a little disruptive to an otherwise pretty good book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would have been interested to read a sequel. I found the different creatures to be fascinating and all of the mixed lineage to be very interesting. I mean, there were kids who were half Valkyrie and half vampire. How awesome is that?
Regardless of that confusing, I honestly really enjoyed this book. I realized after reading the book that there was actually a whole series about Sarah’s mom, Damali, and her generation of Neteru team. I was thinking of picking up that series as well just because I enjoyed this book but after reading some of the current/top reviews of the first few novels, I might end up skipping it. Plus I have way too many other books I need to read anyways.
Also, I just realized upon further inspection that the author, L.A. Banks died about a year after this book was published which actually makes a lot of sense because it felt as if this book could have turned into a series but obviously, it didn’t. I wish it did though because I now feel invested with some of these characters and want to learn more about them. Unfortunately life is not fair.
Sarah, the main character in this book, was someone I 80% liked and enjoyed reading about and 20% thought she was annoying. Why? Mainly because of her personality sometimes – while I enjoyed her loyalty to her friends and family, I found her inability to understand where some of her friends were coming from annoying. In a way, I thought she was a little stuck up and worst part was that she didn’t even realize it. She felt it upon herself to meddle in her friend’s affair and even stalked her friend to make sure she was fine. Okay, yes, obviously you should care about your friend but there is that line between caring and smothering and I don’t think she realized that. Other than that though, I thought she was pretty cool. Plus, she came into some kickass abilities that were pretty awesome.
The one downside to this book was the language and writing style. I’m not sure if it was because the author was black but a lot of the lingo used here were very slang and ghetto. I found it odd because this book is set after the Armageddon which meant that somehow slang and ghetto terminology survived while proper and normal English didn’t? I honestly found the language to be a little disruptive to an otherwise pretty good book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would have been interested to read a sequel. I found the different creatures to be fascinating and all of the mixed lineage to be very interesting. I mean, there were kids who were half Valkyrie and half vampire. How awesome is that?
June 30, 2011
Come into the Light! I have to admit that when the Vampire Huntress series ended I was sad. I read every book as soon as they came out, even had the final 2 signed, in person, in Chicago. So, when I discovered Banks had continued the series but with the children, I was excited.
All of the old guardians return along with their children, 16 years after Armageddon. At first, I wasn't sure I was going to make it. The first part of the book was a challenge. Sarah was this big, whiney, naive baby. And he brother Al was just a little smart-ass who thought he was Mr. Perfect. I wanted to smack the shit out of both of them. After they got to school things evened out a bit and Sarah finally discovered her powers. All of the Neteru compound kids finally discover that the stories their parents told were not embellished at all and the world really isn't a safe place.
The characters and beings in this book were just amazing. Banks has a way of describing things that just makes you feel as if you're there. In one part of the book she revisits one of the past battles from her Huntress series and 'seeing' it from the kids' views was almost better than 'seeing' it the first time.
All of the old guardians return along with their children, 16 years after Armageddon. At first, I wasn't sure I was going to make it. The first part of the book was a challenge. Sarah was this big, whiney, naive baby. And he brother Al was just a little smart-ass who thought he was Mr. Perfect. I wanted to smack the shit out of both of them. After they got to school things evened out a bit and Sarah finally discovered her powers. All of the Neteru compound kids finally discover that the stories their parents told were not embellished at all and the world really isn't a safe place.
The characters and beings in this book were just amazing. Banks has a way of describing things that just makes you feel as if you're there. In one part of the book she revisits one of the past battles from her Huntress series and 'seeing' it from the kids' views was almost better than 'seeing' it the first time.
January 10, 2019
This was the second time that I've read this book. And just like the first time, I wish that the series would've had the chance to be finished. But Mama Banks wasn't able to finish it after all. The attention to detail and references to a number of Ancient Egyptian concepts just tied this book right back into the Vampire Huntress Legends series. And I still love her for that! This series would have been something that would have surpassed the VHL series as well with all of the Guardian children showing off and saving the world from the lessons that their parents and instructors at the Academy taught them. Which would have been beyond awesome to read. Sarah Rivera and all of her Neteru Guardian compound family definitely had an unexpected whirlwind adventure within the first few weeks of coming to the Academy to train to become future Guardian fighters. I could not put the book down, like I had never read it before.
March 7, 2013
Even though this is a YA title, I really enjoyed this book. If you follow the Vampire Huntress series by L. A. Banks, then you will be pleasantly surprised to see that the main characters are the children of the vampire huntress, Damali Richards.
This story puts me in the mind of Harry Potter...only better. The main characters are twins, Sarah and Al. This is their first year at the Neteru Academy. They were sent here in order to strengthen their supernatural talents. The school is in jeopardy of being closed forever when students start to come up missing.
Even though this book falls under the YA (young adult) category, dont let that discourage you from reading it. There is enough action, suspense, and even a little romance to hold any adult's attention. I am looking forward to reading the other books in this series!
This story puts me in the mind of Harry Potter...only better. The main characters are twins, Sarah and Al. This is their first year at the Neteru Academy. They were sent here in order to strengthen their supernatural talents. The school is in jeopardy of being closed forever when students start to come up missing.
Even though this book falls under the YA (young adult) category, dont let that discourage you from reading it. There is enough action, suspense, and even a little romance to hold any adult's attention. I am looking forward to reading the other books in this series!
February 3, 2011
Are you the teen kids of the Guardian's of Light? Well then we have a school for you! Looks like a pyramid, has a sordid past, punky other students with a hard on to get back at you for having hidden powers and powerful parents, then come on down. Location not provided.
Picking up from LA Banks extensive Guardians of Light series, we come into Shadow Walker into the realm of the kids POV. With school peer drama, hot romance and angst, to some rapid action, Shadow Walker is filled with its own teenage language and feeling to it. This is a story of the coming of age of strong entities and how they find themselves and their families as they begin to figure out their life, and all the hardships and sorrows life throws back at them.
Picking up from LA Banks extensive Guardians of Light series, we come into Shadow Walker into the realm of the kids POV. With school peer drama, hot romance and angst, to some rapid action, Shadow Walker is filled with its own teenage language and feeling to it. This is a story of the coming of age of strong entities and how they find themselves and their families as they begin to figure out their life, and all the hardships and sorrows life throws back at them.
January 16, 2014
Reading this book was bittersweet. I loved that Ms. Banks returned to the Vampire Huntress series (in which I read all 12 books in one month) and revisited the characters I so grew to love and continued their story (and her excellent, entertaining writing style) with their next generation. To the very end this book was a page turner, and when it was over, the realization hit me that that was the end (unless someone comes along that can do Ms. Banks justice and continue this series). If you are a fan, you will enjoy this book immensely.
June 24, 2016
I discovered L. A. Banks after she died. I purchased her Vampire Huntress series from a second hand online store and my journey began. I don't have the words to express what an awesome series this is....and as I read Shadow Walker which continued Damali and Carlos' story through their children and the Guardian squads....all I can say is wow. It's a great YA read and I only wish she could have finished it. The characters learned normal life lessons in a supernatural environment. It was delivered in Ms. Banks' signature style. Job well done!!!
April 25, 2011
I loved it. I thought it was a nice continuation of where the Neteru series left off. It's nice to see how the original guardians as well as their children have grown. The kids' lives are just as action packed as their parents' were, and I love seeing how the new generation of Neterus and Guardians have turned out and are still growing. I'm looking forward, as always, to the next in the seriesssss.
February 12, 2013
I loved the first book of the spin-off from the Vampire Huntress Legend series. I know the series will not continue due to L.A Banks' untimely death in Aug 2011. I was disappointed that the second book of the series Shadow Seeker was targeted to be released in 2011 as noted in Book #1. Unfortunately she never finished for publication. This worlld has lost an amazingly imaginative, and incredibly detailed storyteller.
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March 6, 2011 I couldn't get into this book. I highly encourage everyone to give it a chance though because the synopsis really intrigued me.
There was nothing wrong with the writing style, it just doesn't fit what I usually read. I think that I may have been in the wrong mood for something this plot driven, and I usually tend towards character driven.
There was nothing wrong with the writing style, it just doesn't fit what I usually read. I think that I may have been in the wrong mood for something this plot driven, and I usually tend towards character driven.
August 10, 2011
This was my first time reading a "vamp" novel by Ms. Banks. I enjoyed this story, which fits squarely into the YA paranormal genre. Ms. Banks spent a sufficient amount of time laying the foundation for this story and developing the new characters in this series. All in all, a well-told, enjoyable story.
August 4, 2011
Definitely a shoot off of the Vampire Huntress novels. This is a good read for young adults. All books that involve paranormal / magic and teenagers will be compared to the Harry Potter novels, but this is a completely different story. Sadly, we won't find out what happens to the Guardian kids due to Ms. Banks' death.
March 28, 2013
This was an excellent spin-off to the Vampire Huntress series. It picks up years after the last Vampire Huntress book and focuses on the Neteru Guardians trials and tribulations of attending the Neteru Academy. It's great to see the kids come out of their parents shadows and develop their own talents. I can't wait for the next installment!
January 28, 2011
Wow. What can I say. I LOVED IT. I read the entire Vampire Huntress series. Damali and Carlos are one of the best characters ever written. This book is following in their foot steps. Can't wait for the next one.
July 29, 2011
I loved this book, it took me back to the Vampire huntress legends series, it was great to see all my favorite characters in here..I'm not sure if we will see another one as Leslie banks is very very ill fighting an uphill battle with Cancer...I really hope she can beat it.
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