The plot twists are unexpected, the world building is fascinating, and the fledgling love story is a charmer.... This sweeping and compelling epic is ripe for a sequel.--Booklist on The Shadow of What Was Lost
"Ingeniously plotted...Islington's natural storytelling ability provides incessant plot twists and maintains a relentless pace...A promising page-turner from a poised newcomer."--Kirkus on The Shadow of What as Lost
"Islington has built a world with all the right genre elements: complex magic, terrifying threats out of legend, political intrigue, and a large cast of characters whose motivations are seldom clear. Fans of doorstop epic fantasy will not be disappointed."--Publishers Weekly on The Shadow of What Was Lost
"Love The Wheel of Time? This is about to become your new favorite series."--B&N SF & Fantasy Blog on The Shadow of What Was Lost
"Storytelling assurance rare for a debut . . . Fans of Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson will find much to admire."--Guardian on The Shadow of What Was Lost
"Will appeal to anybody looking for a coming-of-age fantasy tale with likeable characters and strong world building."--Fantasy Faction on The Shadow of What Was Lost
"Action aplenty and an ample spattering of violence...this is a whole new world with a fresh fantasy streak."--SciFiNow on The Shadow of What Was Lost
"A relentless juggernaut of a book . . . Astoundingly intricate worldbuilding."--The Daily Mail on The Shadow of What Was Lost