Reviews

Shadowghast by Thomas Taylor

bibliotheca_draconum's review against another edition

adventurous funny mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Loveable characters? Yes

4.25

rjdenney's review

4.0

3.5 Stars!

I liked this one a little better than book 2, but I think what will keep me reading these books more than anything is Will M. Watt, the audio narrator. As long as he narrates these books I will read them until the series is over.

janinevduijn's review against another edition

2.0

Third book in the series, following Herbie and Violet entangled in a spooky mystery. I didn't really enjoy it, the formula becomes repetitive. The 'mystery' isn't really one as the same villain returns (which you can see coming a mile off ) but with no clear motive for 3 books in a row? I also think the adult characters are really unrealistic in how easily they let these kids just do whatever they want.. don't think I'll be continuing the series.

animelanie's review

3.0

Read for PRC
Another mystery has found Herbert Lemon, this time in the form of Caliastra, magician and long-lost Aunt who has come to Eerie-On-Sea to take him home, after her troupe performs a long standing show that is specific to Eerie-On-Sea. But at the same time, residents are going missing, including Jenny’s guardian, and is Caliastra everything she claims?

I have not read the other books in this series, though I do not believe it was vital to do so, while some mention of events from previous books occurs, it was fine to read as a review for the PRC reading list board.

Updated 23/3/22 with Review sent to SAETA Journal
Part of the Eerie-On-Sea mystery series, Shadowghast brings a new mystery to Herbert Lemon, the Lost and Founder of Grand Nautilus Hotel. Herbert and his friend Violet get up to all sorts of adventures as they try to solve the mystery. While part of a series, the novel can be read as a stand-alone, as the other two in the series have not been read by the reviewer, and this did not impact the story. A light hearted, charming story with young characters as the protagonists, the adult characters in the story are either supportive of Herbert and Violet or are the cause of issues for them. Shorter chapters with many cliffhanger endings, enables readers to charge through the book. Great middle grade novel.
Themes: Mystery; Adventure; Fantasy; Crime; Relationships; Spooky

bilbo_bagger's review

adventurous dark emotional funny mysterious reflective tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

lillanaa's review against another edition

5.0

Another hit in what's probably one of my favourite series, I can never believe how great the characterization and atmosphere is in these books! This is the first time I'm getting to catch one with the full art, and it's such a treat to see, Booth's illustrations making the huge events seem even larger than they are. The mystery here is also something that's always fun to try and solve before Herbie and Vi, and their resourcefulness is great to see. I can't wait for the next one now, this series is revving up to something big!

dinnureads's review against another edition

5.0

Loved it! Fun and a bit spooky story with great characters and a Lemony Snicketesque vibe.

missbookiverse's review

4.0

It was fun to be back in Eerie on Sea during Halloween season. I enjoyed Shadowghast much more than its predecessor. The plot was interesting, the setting spooky, and Herbie's narration emotional and funny. I am happy to see that the series will be continued in a fourth book.

gracecb_06's review against another edition

adventurous lighthearted mysterious relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

claire_m's review

adventurous dark emotional funny hopeful mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0