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A review by stormywolf
Flashback by Shannon Messenger
adventurous
challenging
emotional
lighthearted
tense
slow-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? Yes
3.75
I didn't mean to let so much time pass before continuing the series, but I guess it's better late than never? Honestly, I was dreading this one. The title and cover image kinda evoke hints at time travel, and though it wasn't mentioned in the summary, I haven't had the best track record with time travel working out right... But maybe if it works, I won't have had such a long break between books! Haha, but really, I guess it's best to just jump in.
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, this was a fine continuation of the series. I thought it did a good job exploring some serious issues relevant to the children (15+) going through what is essentially guerilla warfare, but I found the resolution to those issues did detract from their overall impact. Still, fans of the series will no doubt enjoy continuing Sophie's story through its twists and turns, revelations and romance. Things definitely take a darker turn this book, with a particularly gruesome scene which sparks Sophie's PTSD, but I think the series has been ramping up somewhat so the tone shouldn't come as a complete shock to younger readers (though it is definitely straddling the line between MG and YA). As for me, I'll be jumping straight into the next book to get that cliffhanger resolved as soon as possible. Until next time!
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, this was a fine continuation of the series. I thought it did a good job exploring some serious issues relevant to the children (15+) going through what is essentially guerilla warfare, but I found the resolution to those issues did detract from their overall impact. Still, fans of the series will no doubt enjoy continuing Sophie's story through its twists and turns, revelations and romance. Things definitely take a darker turn this book, with a particularly gruesome scene which sparks Sophie's PTSD, but I think the series has been ramping up somewhat so the tone shouldn't come as a complete shock to younger readers (though it is definitely straddling the line between MG and YA). As for me, I'll be jumping straight into the next book to get that cliffhanger resolved as soon as possible. Until next time!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Child abuse, Panic attacks/disorders, Torture, Violence, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Mental illness, Blood, Medical content, and Pregnancy
Minor: Death, Domestic abuse, Gore, Miscarriage, Dementia, Kidnapping, Grief, Murder, and War
Being a middle grade/young adult fantasy book, most of these topics are much milder than they would be in an adult fiction book. There is a scene of torture/gore concerning the main character (age 15) and quite a bit of recovery (using fantasy medicines) and dealing with PTSD. There is also a scene where the main character witnesses and assists with an animal giving premature-birth, but it is given little detail and both parent and child live .