The Prophecy of Shadows by Michelle Madow Pages: 308
Published by Dreamscape Publishing on January 26, 2016
Series: Elementals #1
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy & Magic, mythology
Source: eARC from Publisher
Also in this series: The Blood of the HydraFilled with magic, thrilling adventure, and sweet romance, Elementals is the first in a new series that fans of mythology will love!
When Nicole Cassidy moves from sunny Georgia to gloomy New England, the last thing she expects is to learn that her homeroom is a cover for a secret coven of witches. Even more surprisingly ... she's apparently a witch herself. Despite doubts about her newfound abilities, Nicole is welcomed into this ancient circle of witches and is bedazzled by their powers--and, to her dismay, by Blake--the school's notorious bad-boy.
Girls who get close to Blake wind up hurt. His girlfriend Danielle will do anything to keep them away, even if she must resort to using dark magic. But the chemistry between Blake and Nicole is undeniable, and despite wanting to protect Nicole from Danielle's wrath, he finds it impossible to keep his distance.
When the Olympian Comet shoots through the sky for the first time in three thousand years, Nicole, Blake, Danielle, and two others in their homeroom are gifted with mysterious powers over the elements. But the comet has another effect--it opens the portal to the prison world that has contained the Titans for centuries. After an ancient monster escapes and attacks Nicole and Blake, it's up to them and the others to follow the clues from a cryptic prophecy so that they can save their town ... and possibly the world.
The Prophecy of Shadows is the first book in the young adult fantasy/mythology series, called the Elementals by Michelle Madow. This series says it is aimed for fans of Percy Jackson and The Secret Circle, and I think they are right on point with The Secret Circle. What I liked most about The Prophecy of Shadows is the blend of witches and elemental magic with mythology. I thought that was a cool take on a mythology story that I have not seen done before. I have read contemporaries, fantasies, and romances from author Michelle Madow and she really has a talent for being an author that can write diverse genres of books well. I always know that I will enjoy her story telling. And I did with The Prophecy of Shadows.
The Prophecy of Shadows follows new girl Nicole. When she shows up to her new school, she is placed in a mysterious honors class, which happens to be a code word for the classes for students with magic powers. From there, she is swept up in a whirl wind adventure that must have seemed like something out of a dream for her. Not only did she have powers, but strange things started happening to her and some of her class mates. Strange, even for kids with powers. I really liked how fast paced The Prophecy of Shadows was. You don’t really have too much time to do anything but keep reading and try to keep up with Nicole and her classmates because they are off on a prophecy journey pretty quickly in the story. I loved deciphering the clues, and I cannot wait to see what is going to be in store for them next.
The Prophecy of Shadows does a good job of laying the groundwork to their world. I know we will see more of white, grey, and black energy magic. (as well as all the colors.) And with some of the creatures that we got a glimpse of in The Prophecy of Shadows, I know there is bound to be lots more adventure for the gang. I can’t wait to see what happens next plot wise. It is going to be a wild ride, and I am super excited about it.
I loved Nicole. I thought she was a strong character, and I admired her conviction and morals when it came to her choices throughout The Prophecy of Shadows. (especially when it came to Blake.) In fact, my only hold up with the story is Blake. I just can’t seem to get on board with him. He does nothing for me, and the fact that he wanted to keep everything with Nicole a secret gave me icky vibes. I didn’t feel their kind of budding romance at all. I really hope he proves me wrong in the next book, but as of right now, I am hoping for a new character to come into play as a love interest for Nicole.
Bottom line: If you are a fan of witch stories and of mythology this is a mash up of the two that you should check out! Book one is fast paced, and does a lot of world building and setting ground work. Michelle Madow has set up the Elementals series to be an action filled, fun ride and I can’t wait for more!
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Michelle is offering up a fabulous prize during her Elementals: The Prophecy of Shadows Virtual Tour event. One (1) lucky winner will receive a Kindle Fire 7”!
Note: Book Briefs Contest Policy applies. All of the prizes, terms and conditions of the giveaway should be contained in the rafflecopter below. No Purchase necessary to enter. Void where prohibited by law.
I love a good witchy story and this one sounds perfect. I love the cover too!