The writer of this book has a talent for showing the growth in his characters. Though the ending to the story was a little abrupt I still think it was pretty good. I love how the story feels so relatable it shows people as what they are human beings who can make both right and wrong decisions. I was also pleased with the way he portrayed the world around. The most important thing at least, in my opinion, is that he tells you just enough about the government but doesn't go too deep that it makes it boring. This is a great book I would recommend it to all action lover and the cover, by the way, is one of few covers that I like. ( )

Very well done series. Good world building and character development. Looking forward to the next series or the continuation of this one. ( )

The Wounded Shadow by Patrick W. Carr is the third installment in the Darkwater Saga. It was a little slow going at first; but once I got into the story, I could not read fast enough. I predict this will be one of my favorites for the year.

There are so many things to say about this book I am not sure where to start. So, I am going to just jump right in with the world building, which has to be the most elaborate I think I have had the pleasure to read in a long time. In this way, it was reminiscent of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The imagination, time and effort it took to construct this world is just mind boggling. The thought of how to keep it all straight while you are developing the plot is enough to give me a head ache.

Because the story is told from three POVs, there are three main characters which, by the way, worked nicely for the plot. The character of Willet was my favorite. Yet, regardless of which character you like the best, I found that it was easy to connect with all of them. The author was very conscientious of the reader when developing the characters and that is one of the things that sets this book, and the series, apart from others I have read in this genre.

The last thing I want to share is about the plot. It is complex and with the POV changing among the lead characters it can get confusing so you must stay on your toes. Yet, I never felt it was over worked or forced in anyway. Everything fit together nicely, and it made for a great read.

I love it when a book just blows me away. I know I am gushing here, but this book is worthy of it. Now I want to go back and read each book again and I am sure I will in the future. In addition, the author has left openings (in the form of loose ends) for more stories to come out of this world. I can only hope and sit on the edge of my seating waiting for the next one.

I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

For more reviews, and author interviews, see my blog at www.thespineview.com. ( )