Book of Night by Holly Black

Holly Black’s adult debut was a slow journey into a world where shadows are at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Book of Night is an urban fantasy with interesting characters and a compelling narrative. It explores the question in a world where shadows can do your bidding, what would you make yours do?

A lot of reviewer have noted the slow pace at the beginning as a downside, but I really enjoyed that. I thought it was beautifully paced and really let me get to know the characters and their lives. The buildup was rewarding for me. Despite her flaws (of which there are many) and self-sabotaging (again, lots), I still connected with Charlie and understood her decisions, even when they were the worst ones she could have made. I think the slow pace led to that deeper understanding of her and if it were faster, her decisions would not have made any sense to the reader.

The twists and turns were rewarding, and I can’t wait to dive into the next book.