A review by readingqueerly
The Shadow Cabinet by Juno Dawson

adventurous dark emotional tense medium-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

4.5


The last 150 pages just had me yelling 'what the fuck' while gasping and/or screaming over and over. I cannot believe I have to wait for book three.
Truly, these books are such a great depiction of what it means to be a woman in a man's world, even when you KNOW you're better or more powerful than them. There was a very satisfying moment even towards the ending that had me cheering on all of this woman's wrongs.
But it's also imo an incredible piece of fantasy that incorporates some very heavy topics like substance abuse, DV, the complexity of family, the complexity of being human. The way I started out with such a bias against one of the main characters because of how book one was set up; and seeing her story in full learning and growing with her and where she ends up at the end of book two is truly an amazing journey. This author manages to balance plot and character focus so well. 
I must also applaud the story building. I am rarely this surprised by a book, but this and book one have had me in whiplash from all the twists and turns I did not see coming. And the way they just make sense too!!!! Everything is set up so well, making all the plot twists connect and work out to one complete story. 
I cannot wait for book three. 


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