A review by betwixt_the_pages
Between Silence And Shadow by T.J. Knight

4.0

Rating: 4.25/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: mind the triggers y'all; there's a LOT happening in this read; sassy characters; confusing magic system; interesting worldbuilding; dramatic, traumatic, emotional ride


HUGE thanks to T.J. Knight for the title! My review is voluntarily written and in no way altered or impacted by the gesture.

I look back at the deep red gown. Its intricate brocade is regal in every sense.

But I am no queen.

And I am no one's shadow.

For too long, I have dwelled in the darkened corners, bound to the whims of men. But now, I will forge a new path in the void left by deserted gods.


First and foremost, please mind the triggers, Penguins. There are some heavy, traumatic scenes in this read-- keep yourselves safe, your mental health is priority.

That said, this was a whirlwind of a read from start to finish. I could not bring myself to put this read down, curious and needing to know what happened next. The characters are snarky, multi-layered, and intriguing. I found myself wishing for more-- more worldbuilding, more explanations, more answers. This was a slightly confusing read to fall into. There is a magic system.... but we aren't given many details of what that looks like, how it works, where it comes from. Characters who through the whole book seemed wholly "unmagic," in a sudden press of heavy emotions, exhibited unknown talents. There was a war mentioned multiple times.... but no reasons behind what caused it. As entertaining as the read was, I found it also lacking a bit for my preference.

She will be my salvation.

And I will be her destruction.

I told you, Iva, I will always find you.

Better run fast, little fox. There will be no hiding in the darkness when I'm the one who controls the shadows.


Still, I cannot wait to see where book 2 leads our characters! I definitely recommend this to lovers of snarky romantasy, arranged marriages, and intriguing magic systems. A new dawn approaches, Penguins.... are you ready to greet your fate?