Shadow and Sword


Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
292 Pages
Reviewed on 02/02/2024
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers' Favorite

Shadow and Sword by N.K. Carlson is an epic fantasy adventure and the first book in The Chronicles of Terrasohnen. Sixteen-year-old Reith has lived in Coeden all his life. After the deaths of his parents, Vereinen took him in as a chronicler’s apprentice. Now, Reith is running for his life after the entire village of Coeden was butchered and set ablaze. Before unexpectedly bumping into the Gray Man himself, he found a note from his master to meet him in Erador. It is a desolate country where nothing grows after the dragons destroyed it years ago. With an innate sense to do the right thing, Reith sets out to find his master and hopefully stop this darkness from spreading over the land.

Author N.K. Carlson has created an amazingly rich world filled with magic, symbolism, and meaning. Written in the third-person narrative from the perspective of the protagonist, we are privileged to share Reith's every emotion and observation. The characters are relatable and likable and their growth is evident. Stimulating all the senses, the scenery is written with acute precision. We cannot help but fall into the pages and see and smell every blade of grass, hear every footstep, taste every bite, and feel every hit. The choreography of chases and fights is detailed and dramatic. I loved the religious component as well as the trinity of elements running through the story. Young adults as well as mature readers who love fantasy will enjoy Shadow and Sword. I look forward to the next adventure of Reith and his new friends.