Monday, October 1, 2012

Review: Enshadowed by Kelly Creagh

EnshadowedEnshadowed (Nevermore #2) 
by Kelly Creagh
Hardback, 429
Released: August 28, 2012
Publisher: Atheneum Books
Purchase: Amazon | Book Depository
Synopsis via Goodreads:
True love takes a twisted turn in the second book of this modern gothic romance trilogy channeling the dark brilliance of Edgar Allan Poe.While Varen remains a prisoner in a perilous dream world where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life, Isobel travels to Baltimore to confront the dark figure known throughout the world as the Poe Toaster. This man, the same man who once appeared to Isobel in her dreams and abandoned her in Varen’s nightmare world, holds the key to saving Varen.

But when Isobel discovers a way to return to this dream world, she finds herself swept up in a realm that not only holds remnants of Edgar Allan Poe’s presence, but has also now taken on the characteristics of Varen’s innermost self. It is a dark world of fear, terror, and anger.

When Isobel once more encounters Varen, she finds him changed. And now Isobel must face a new adversary—one who also happens to be her greatest love.
~Review~

Absolutely incredible writing that continues to impress. Enshadowed is hauntingly addictive, emotional, and well balanced. This tortured romance remains as passionate as the beginning. And I'm quite certain even Kelly Creagh is as taken aback as her devoted readers, me being one of them. 

Where do I begin? I can't find the words to convey just how much I love this series and have been waiting impatiently for the second book. Now that I've gotten the chance to devour the pages I'd have to say that my love is still strong, and just as strong as the love shared between the two main characters I've grown to love so much, Isobel and Varen. 

Everyone is still pretty much confused by Varen's disappearance, and eyes continue to scowl at the last person who saw him. It's difficult going on but Isobel does her best to convince her family and friends she's stable until she can find a way to reach the love of her life. Though, I must admit I hadn't seen much growth in Isobel's character, nor in the presence of others including her parents, Gwen, or any other character in the book. But I think it's understandable being that the situation doesn't give room for growth. 

Isobel is focused on one mission and one mission only, to find Varen and keep her promise. Kelly spent the majority of the book unraveling details regarding the dark forces from past to present and I must admit I like how good she throws Poe in the mix and how everything just intertwines perfectly. She also dives into Isobel's behavior and her internal suffering. She's barely hanging on; and who can blame her when the slightest hope turns futile at every turn. Yes, the story is truly sad. And gets even sadder towards the end I must say. But in every moment the lovebirds get to have each other, suddenly it seems not all that depressing but rather sweet.

Enshadowed may not be as great as the first, based on the fact that Varen hardly makes an appearance and the storyline seemed too transfixed on Isobel's heartache in being separated from him. However, the impeccable descriptions and imaginative settings can make up for the absence, a bit. Not to mention the ending, which wasn't an ending of course, but was indeed mind blowing. Once more, I've enjoyed this Gothic romance and am now back to insanely anticipating the next.

8 comments:

  1. Awesome review. I haven't read Nevermore yet, but have heard really great things about it. Enshadowed sounds good to.

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  2. I haven't started this series, but have heard great things about it. Sorry this didn't quite live up to Nevermore. Great review!

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    1. Oh Drea what are you waiting for? lol it's a really good series. Thanks for stopping by.

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  3. I agree, the writing was once more absolutely spectacular! I loved to finally know how the story continues. Great review, and I agree with most of what you said. Only when it comes to character growth I got a different impression, but I think that's something that is highly subjective. I can't wait for the conclusion of the trilogy!

    Here's my review if you're interested.

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    1. Thanks, yea I didn't get that much new stuff from the characters. But I guess that's just me.

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  4. I love your review! You have definitely convinced me to go and get Nevermore ASAP. I have heard some really good things about this series.

    Kristin @ Young Adult Book Haven

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