A review by henrytinker
The Shadow Cabinet by Juno Dawson

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

2.5

To be honest, I was disappointed with this after how much I enjoyed the first book (5 stars). The found family vibe wasn't there at all, and so many things that had been established in the first book were retconned. How the magic system worked was changed for the sake of plot and characters did things out of character all the time.  Unfortunately Niamh actually did die, and once everyone realises they're fine with it... because plot? They're just happy that Ciara is back, even though she murdered her twin. The way that everything revolves around Ciara is the main problem I have with this book. It's supposed to be her redemption story, but she's consistently an awful person. She rapes Luke multiple times, physically assaults Theo and drugs her, kills multiple people...but we're supposed to feel sorry for her for some reason? I just couldn't accept that Niamh's friends wouldn't care about her being murdered by Ciara. 

Hated Luke being a witchunter. Leonie's storyline was boring because I didn't care enough about her and brother's relationship enough to feel the stakes. 

Elle turning her husband to stone because she got so angry she couldn't control her magic was yikes, and it justified his fear of her magic imo. 

The only bits I actually liked was the subplot with Theo, Holly and Milo. But then Milo was actually Lucifer so...yeah. Nevermind. I did like learning more about the demons in this world, but that was it really. Such a let down. 
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