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In the Shadow of the Sun #1
In the Shadow of the Sun
It’s 1661 in Paris, and magicians thrill nobles with enchanting illusions. Exiled in France, 17-year-old Henriette of England wishes she could use her magic to gain entry at court. Instead, her plan is to hide her magical talents, and accept an arranged marriage to the French king’s younger brother.
Henriette soon realizes her fiancé prefers the company of young men to hers, and court magicians turn up killed by a mysterious sorcerer who uses forbidden magic. When an accident forces Henriette to reveal her uniquely powerful gift for enchantments to Louis, he asks for her help: she alone can defeat the dark magician threatening his authority and aid his own plans to build the new, enchanted seat of his power - the Palace of Versailles.
Henriette soon realizes her fiancé prefers the company of young men to hers, and court magicians turn up killed by a mysterious sorcerer who uses forbidden magic. When an accident forces Henriette to reveal her uniquely powerful gift for enchantments to Louis, he asks for her help: she alone can defeat the dark magician threatening his authority and aid his own plans to build the new, enchanted seat of his power - the Palace of Versailles.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 11, 2020
About the author
E.M. Castellan
7 books80 followersEM Castellan is a writer of Historical Fantasy novels. She grew up in France, but she now lives in London. A lover of all things historical, she has a particular fondness for 17th Century France and Ancient Rome.
Feiwel & Friends published her Young Adult debut IN THE SHADOW OF THE SUN, which Publishers Weekly called “a captivating read”, in 2020, with its sequel UNDER A STARLIT SKY following in 2021.
Her Wattpad stories have been read over 450,000 times, with THE BRIGHT AND THE LOST the winner of the 2017 Wattpad Awards (Wattys) in the Newcomers category, and selected as a Wattpad Featured Story for five months in 2017.
Feiwel & Friends published her Young Adult debut IN THE SHADOW OF THE SUN, which Publishers Weekly called “a captivating read”, in 2020, with its sequel UNDER A STARLIT SKY following in 2021.
Her Wattpad stories have been read over 450,000 times, with THE BRIGHT AND THE LOST the winner of the 2017 Wattpad Awards (Wattys) in the Newcomers category, and selected as a Wattpad Featured Story for five months in 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
June 20, 2019
An utterly enchanting story of intrigue and romance that seamlessly blends magic into history. IN THE SHADOW OF THE SUN casts a spell that makes the past come alive in breathtaking new ways.
In short, I loved it!
In short, I loved it!
August 5, 2019
This book is an upended bottle of glitter. Stardust raining from the sky. An obscenely expensive highlighter at Sephora. I loved the magic system and all the gorgeous imagery. Historical fantasy fans, you’re going to want to add this one to your list!
June 15, 2020
It took me a while to get really invested in the story. Don’t get me wrong, I adored the characters, especially Philippe and Armand. I don’t think I could adore Philippe anymore than I do.
Love, magic, intrigue, drama, betrayal, architecture, death, history, and lots of fashion!!! What’s not to like about all that?! And the ending is just adorable and I wouldn’t mind if there were a sequel. If the cover is as beautiful as this one, I’ll run right out and snag it!!
Edit: Hold up!!!! Just saw there is already a sequel. Excuse me, I have to find a book store immediately!!
Edit # 2: The second one isn’t out yet. *sniffle*
Love, magic, intrigue, drama, betrayal, architecture, death, history, and lots of fashion!!! What’s not to like about all that?! And the ending is just adorable and I wouldn’t mind if there were a sequel. If the cover is as beautiful as this one, I’ll run right out and snag it!!
Edit: Hold up!!!! Just saw there is already a sequel. Excuse me, I have to find a book store immediately!!
Edit # 2: The second one isn’t out yet. *sniffle*
Want to read
October 11, 2021MAGIC? ILLUSIONISTS? PARIS?!?!?!?!
*SHRIEK*
*SHRIEK*
February 26, 2020
2.5 stars because I’m feeling generous to a first time published author even though i made it halfway and then skimmed to the end. mild spoilers ahoy
-a mediocre execution of a concept given an absolutely stunning cover. this had been on my tbr for a long time and what a disappointment
-the fortune teller with “kohl lined eyes” NEVER gets a name and the loaded gun of a first-chapter prophecy got dropped until the last 15 pages and never actually resolved 🙃 if you’re going to throw a tired, racist trope into your book you might as well have it actually matter throughout the plot (i assume this will be brought up in the sequel as some plot twist)
-some of the dialogue is very modern (“you should see the other guy” WHAT LMAO)
-and speaking of dialogue and language, we get it. the setting is in france. they are speaking french. stop italicizing french words. it’s a stylistic choice that drives me bonkers in fuckin yonkers because it feels so smug
-feels like the author went “ah yes, i will call magicians ‘magicien/nne’ but not explore if there’s a more less google-translate-sounding option out there”
-the magic system doesn’t feel established enough. what happens if sources don’t allow magicians to use their magic? is it detrimental? shouldn’t it be? doesn’t it add stakes, if henriette’s magic /must/ be used, as well as parallel her helplessness as a woman seen as an extension of male political power? shouldn’t large displays, such as the ending renovation of versailles done by one pair of magician and source, take more people (also the erasure of royalty’s exploitation of the peasant classes when it came to the irl palace)? how has this affected class structures? where’s folk magic amongst all this, besides our unnamed fortune teller? shouldn’t we see these things at the edges of the glittering court, which uses magic for ballets and other entertainments? the upper class magicians exploiting multiple lower class sources to do large displays of frivolous magic or architecture feels like a smarter way of creating a simmering ironic dread which the characters may not recognize but the reader will. after all, the descendants of most of these characters will be guillotined (partly because of the economic excesses of building versailles and maintaining the court! if the palace is built in an afternoon by magic...). i understand the author wanted to keep her setting mostly limited to fontainebleau, but if she’s having her heroine wander through the slums of paris on the morning of her wedding, this can be made to happen.
-this needed a defter editing hand to work this plot and writing into something more compelling, which is a shame because there IS an interesting space to explore with the early court of louis xiv and the inherent tension of henriette being raised in exile/her becoming valuable again because her brother is crowned in england. as mentioned above, there was wasted potential with playing with her being a source AND a political pawn who is trying to find agency while functioning within the boundaries of her roles as wife, loyal subject, and source.
-i won’t even mention the romance plot. guh. not that it’s poly, but that, like other aspects of the book, it was just... lacking
-a mediocre execution of a concept given an absolutely stunning cover. this had been on my tbr for a long time and what a disappointment
-the fortune teller with “kohl lined eyes” NEVER gets a name and the loaded gun of a first-chapter prophecy got dropped until the last 15 pages and never actually resolved 🙃 if you’re going to throw a tired, racist trope into your book you might as well have it actually matter throughout the plot (i assume this will be brought up in the sequel as some plot twist)
-some of the dialogue is very modern (“you should see the other guy” WHAT LMAO)
-and speaking of dialogue and language, we get it. the setting is in france. they are speaking french. stop italicizing french words. it’s a stylistic choice that drives me bonkers in fuckin yonkers because it feels so smug
-feels like the author went “ah yes, i will call magicians ‘magicien/nne’ but not explore if there’s a more less google-translate-sounding option out there”
-the magic system doesn’t feel established enough. what happens if sources don’t allow magicians to use their magic? is it detrimental? shouldn’t it be? doesn’t it add stakes, if henriette’s magic /must/ be used, as well as parallel her helplessness as a woman seen as an extension of male political power? shouldn’t large displays, such as the ending renovation of versailles done by one pair of magician and source, take more people (also the erasure of royalty’s exploitation of the peasant classes when it came to the irl palace)? how has this affected class structures? where’s folk magic amongst all this, besides our unnamed fortune teller? shouldn’t we see these things at the edges of the glittering court, which uses magic for ballets and other entertainments? the upper class magicians exploiting multiple lower class sources to do large displays of frivolous magic or architecture feels like a smarter way of creating a simmering ironic dread which the characters may not recognize but the reader will. after all, the descendants of most of these characters will be guillotined (partly because of the economic excesses of building versailles and maintaining the court! if the palace is built in an afternoon by magic...). i understand the author wanted to keep her setting mostly limited to fontainebleau, but if she’s having her heroine wander through the slums of paris on the morning of her wedding, this can be made to happen.
-this needed a defter editing hand to work this plot and writing into something more compelling, which is a shame because there IS an interesting space to explore with the early court of louis xiv and the inherent tension of henriette being raised in exile/her becoming valuable again because her brother is crowned in england. as mentioned above, there was wasted potential with playing with her being a source AND a political pawn who is trying to find agency while functioning within the boundaries of her roles as wife, loyal subject, and source.
-i won’t even mention the romance plot. guh. not that it’s poly, but that, like other aspects of the book, it was just... lacking
August 30, 2023
1.5 bc I guess it could have been worse
———————
No. Absolutely not.
While the first two chapters were admittedly okay, I couldn’t stand the rest of this book. I read this for Reading Rush bc it was the first book I touched at Barnes and noble and I only finished it so I could complete that challenge.
It feels like literally nothing happened. I mean I couldn’t give you a solid recap of the events in this book if I tried. It was so unremarkable.
The plot was so incredibly dry, not to mention the plot from the blurb isn’t brought up until over halfway through the book.
Also the prophecy?? Where did it go?? It was brought up in the beginning and then THE MAIN CHARACTER ADMITS SHE FORGOT WHAT IT SAID SO WHAT WAS THE REASON?? WHAT WAS THE REASONNN BITCH??
Don’t even get me started on the main character. HENRIETTE is a picture of an 💕✨idiot🧚✨ and I literally couldn’t stand listening to her thoughts. She flip flopped over and over again about EVERYTHING. I mean she would be totally okay with something until someone she barely knew suggested otherwise and she’d be like “oooh yeah you’re right.” Not to mention how she was totally not okay with Phillippe sleeping with Armand but she puts up with it anyways because ??? Why??? I DONT KNOW. Her personality is 100% dependent on the people around her and... no.
None of the other characters have much of any substance either. Phillippe’s reasoning for ignoring HENRIETTE? Stupid, immature, and barely has any weight to it. Idk what was going on with Armand but he’s the least problematic. Louis has zero substance. Her ladies in waiting? I can’t even remember their names.
Historical fantasy is meant to be written in a way that fits in so well you could believe it happened, at least the way I see it. That didn’t happen here. Imagine Louis XIV, but he’s a magician. It doesn’t work and I didn’t like it.
I think this book did have potential in theory- it’s an interesting blip of history that could stand to be explored. However, this was too much. I didn’t feel connected to the story or the characters, and it doesn’t hold that believable, captivating magic that I have come to expect from historical fantasy. Do better.
———————
No. Absolutely not.
While the first two chapters were admittedly okay, I couldn’t stand the rest of this book. I read this for Reading Rush bc it was the first book I touched at Barnes and noble and I only finished it so I could complete that challenge.
It feels like literally nothing happened. I mean I couldn’t give you a solid recap of the events in this book if I tried. It was so unremarkable.
The plot was so incredibly dry, not to mention the plot from the blurb isn’t brought up until over halfway through the book.
Also the prophecy?? Where did it go?? It was brought up in the beginning and then THE MAIN CHARACTER ADMITS SHE FORGOT WHAT IT SAID SO WHAT WAS THE REASON?? WHAT WAS THE REASONNN BITCH??
Don’t even get me started on the main character. HENRIETTE is a picture of an 💕✨idiot🧚✨ and I literally couldn’t stand listening to her thoughts. She flip flopped over and over again about EVERYTHING. I mean she would be totally okay with something until someone she barely knew suggested otherwise and she’d be like “oooh yeah you’re right.” Not to mention how she was totally not okay with Phillippe sleeping with Armand but she puts up with it anyways because ??? Why??? I DONT KNOW. Her personality is 100% dependent on the people around her and... no.
None of the other characters have much of any substance either. Phillippe’s reasoning for ignoring HENRIETTE? Stupid, immature, and barely has any weight to it. Idk what was going on with Armand but he’s the least problematic. Louis has zero substance. Her ladies in waiting? I can’t even remember their names.
Historical fantasy is meant to be written in a way that fits in so well you could believe it happened, at least the way I see it. That didn’t happen here. Imagine Louis XIV, but he’s a magician. It doesn’t work and I didn’t like it.
I think this book did have potential in theory- it’s an interesting blip of history that could stand to be explored. However, this was too much. I didn’t feel connected to the story or the characters, and it doesn’t hold that believable, captivating magic that I have come to expect from historical fantasy. Do better.
June 7, 2019
I'm one of Eve's critique partners and I can't properly put into words just how magical, romantic, epic, and beautiful this book is, because it's that and more (and has an amazing polyamorous relationship to boot!). Do yourselves a favor and add this to your TBR. I read it in a single day and it's stuck with me ever since, and now it has a gorgeous cover to match its gorgeous insides!
October 16, 2019
This! Book!
As someone who is utterly obsessed with well done historical fiction books, this one left me mesmerized. Not only was the histroical detail woven in FLAWLESSLY throughout, it was done in such a way that entranced me and really made me feel like I was there. The descriptions were wonderful, the details were impeccable, and I was left in awe.
The story itself was also wonderful to read. I loved the spin on magic and how it was formed, and thought the way everything was thought up was so inventive and creative.
Plus there was no girl hate! And there was consensual love! And fun characters! I found myself laughing out loud multiple times and really cheering for Henriette others.
This is definitely a book that should be read by history lovers and anyone else who is in the mood for an entertaining and enchanting read.
Can't wait for the sequel!
As someone who is utterly obsessed with well done historical fiction books, this one left me mesmerized. Not only was the histroical detail woven in FLAWLESSLY throughout, it was done in such a way that entranced me and really made me feel like I was there. The descriptions were wonderful, the details were impeccable, and I was left in awe.
The story itself was also wonderful to read. I loved the spin on magic and how it was formed, and thought the way everything was thought up was so inventive and creative.
Plus there was no girl hate! And there was consensual love! And fun characters! I found myself laughing out loud multiple times and really cheering for Henriette others.
This is definitely a book that should be read by history lovers and anyone else who is in the mood for an entertaining and enchanting read.
Can't wait for the sequel!
July 10, 2021
The French Royal but magic. Set during the early years of King Louis XIV reign , with real historical people as Prince Phillipe , Henriette of England , Armand de Gramont, Comte de Guiche and others. The royal palaces are grandiose, beautiful and bombastic but what if magic was the cause of it. Gold and glittery magic, The Sun KING deserves nothing less. Historical fiction goal is to entertain and educate or make known to an extend. Castellan makes me curious to research further into the lives of these complicated people. The marriage of Henriette and Phillipe had it's troubles and their presented personalities clash in this book but the fictional versions grow to love each other as people, friends and lovers what once only a marriage of convenience. Phillipe was my favorite character , in fact I had this debut on my radar because it mentions his queerness and him favoring men. Which I did not know and I had not learned about this royal in school. French history is not taught here. Henriette had to make peace with her husband being in a romantic relationship with Armand. Armand is a delight and I'd love to party with this fictional version. She eventually becomes friends with. Henriette can be frustrating when she is naïve in situations but I have to remind myself that she is sheltered but with all this she is quick on her feet, brave and determent when the going gets though. They all hold each other together to stand up against the murderous and mysterious dark magician. If you are in need of a historical fantasy, In the shadow of the sun is solid choice. And i'll think of this trio now and then.
January 21, 2020
This debut is the perfect blend of history, magic, and court intrigue.
Mystery and magic combine to create a tense, interesting story filled with characters you'll root for to the end. I never knew quite who to trust, not just because anyone could be the killer, but because anyone could turn against Henriette at any time. Her place at court is precarious, her magic dangerous, and her friendships tenuous.
Throw in a super cool magic system, and this book is full of slow-burn tension and adventure.
Mystery and magic combine to create a tense, interesting story filled with characters you'll root for to the end. I never knew quite who to trust, not just because anyone could be the killer, but because anyone could turn against Henriette at any time. Her place at court is precarious, her magic dangerous, and her friendships tenuous.
Throw in a super cool magic system, and this book is full of slow-burn tension and adventure.
March 10, 2020
I have been a huge fan of EM Castellan's writing for literally years, so I was hugely excited when this book was announced!
I adored this book! In the Shadow of the Sun is a historical fantasy set in the opulent French Court, featuring characters you may have some familiarity with if you've ever read Dumas' books or watched The Man in the Iron Mask, but with a completely new magical spin. The romance went in a really unexpected but delightful direction.
I adored this book! In the Shadow of the Sun is a historical fantasy set in the opulent French Court, featuring characters you may have some familiarity with if you've ever read Dumas' books or watched The Man in the Iron Mask, but with a completely new magical spin. The romance went in a really unexpected but delightful direction.
February 2, 2020
Full review to come!
Want to read
May 20, 2020this book is so much the book that I want to read right now that I wonder if the author somehow snuck inside my head and read my mind.
June 10, 2020
This story takes place in the 1600s in the French Royal court. It masterfully follows King Louis' XIV sister-in-law, Henriette, through her trials and travails in the politics of the court: think Phillippa Gregory, Jean Plaidy or Alison Weir. The twist here is that the world is reimagined with magic in it. As a scientist, I felt like I wanted a little bit more detail on the magical system but basically it takes two people to perform spells; one to serve as the source of the magic and another to perform the spell. This takes politics and power struggles to a whole new level. The regular glitz and glam of Louis' court is enhanced with magical flowers, fireworks and illusions. The book is very atmospheric and beautifully written but it well balances that with lots of political intrigue. Someone is trying to overthrow the king and control as much magic as they can get their hands on at the expense of the lives of many sources. The question is will they find the culprit magicienne before they are able to breach into the royal circle?
Thanks to Feiwel & Friends for an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thanks to Feiwel & Friends for an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 5, 2020
This is the magic + historical fiction book combo I've been waiting for. The book is set in France during the 1600s and features all the drama and intrigue of the French court that you could hope for -and that includes mysterious deaths of those who carry magic.
I struggled with this one a bit - I think the author does an incredible job of making the setting and magic accessible. I've never landed so solidly in a setting that has so much going on - a different time/place plus the nuance of the magic created.
The romance took a while to settle in, making it almost a no-burn vs a slow-burn. I liked how no one is fit into a one-size-fits-all box, but at times that dynamic undermined the connection between the characters.
Overall, I enjoyed it but felt my mind and interest straying throughout. A good historical fantasy.
I struggled with this one a bit - I think the author does an incredible job of making the setting and magic accessible. I've never landed so solidly in a setting that has so much going on - a different time/place plus the nuance of the magic created.
The romance took a while to settle in, making it almost a no-burn vs a slow-burn. I liked how no one is fit into a one-size-fits-all box, but at times that dynamic undermined the connection between the characters.
Overall, I enjoyed it but felt my mind and interest straying throughout. A good historical fantasy.
April 22, 2020
3.5/5 This was a good historical fantasy, but just missed the mark for me. Those who enjoy historical fantasy, me like this better than I did though.
I enjoyed going back into history, while having that twist of magic. The characters were interesting and the mystery was something that kept me wanting to read- at least in the beginning. Unfortunately, towards the middle and till the end, I found the plot a bit boring. The mystery unraveled early on and there really wasn’t anything pulling me through the story.
I liked the writing style and found it descriptive and pleasant to read. Just due to plot, I struggled to get through the middle of the book to the end. I do think I would try the next book though based on what I did like about this one.
I enjoyed going back into history, while having that twist of magic. The characters were interesting and the mystery was something that kept me wanting to read- at least in the beginning. Unfortunately, towards the middle and till the end, I found the plot a bit boring. The mystery unraveled early on and there really wasn’t anything pulling me through the story.
I liked the writing style and found it descriptive and pleasant to read. Just due to plot, I struggled to get through the middle of the book to the end. I do think I would try the next book though based on what I did like about this one.
April 9, 2020
proper rtc but this was magic, pure magic, whole and alive and wondrous and dark and beautiful
February 27, 2020
3.5/5
A fun, engaging historical fantasy infused with more modern sensibilities.
Check out my full review at Forever Young Adult.
A fun, engaging historical fantasy infused with more modern sensibilities.
Check out my full review at Forever Young Adult.
February 24, 2020
Overall not a bad read. I dropped my rating by a star because I couldn't get past some plot holes and very convenient situations to the point of ridiculousness just to move the story in the authors chosen direction.
February 22, 2020
I really enjoyed the overall premise of this book. The characters were enjoyable, although a bit flat at times and predictable. The plot twists were not surprising to me, but fit the story well. I thought that the pacing of this book was strong. Overall, this was a solid YA fantasy read.
October 3, 2021
Was soll ich sagen – ich wollte dieses Buch so sehr mögen, aber es war einfach (meiner Meinung nach) nicht besonders gut.
Schwierig. Auf der einen Seite haben wir Henriette – kränklich, langweilig, ist mit einem Mann verheiratet, der jemand anderen eigentlich viel interessanter findet. Auf der anderen Seite haben wir den Sonnenkönig himself, Louis, nur an sich selbst interessiert… nee das wars tatsächlich schon an Charaktereigenschaften.
Es gab unglaublich viele Dinge die mich an der Geschichte gestört haben – zu aller erst fand ich das Setting nicht ganz ausgearbeitet. Man braucht offenbar zwei Menschen um zu zaubern – eine Quelle mit Magie und einen magicien, der die Magie lenkt. Aber wie konnte der Bösewicht am Ende ganz alleine zaubern? Wieso kann Henriette am Ende die Magie lenken, wenn sie doch „nur“ eine Quelle ist? Man scheint Magie weder zu lernen, noch für irgendetwas nützlicheres als Feuerwerk und Funken gebrauchen zu können und wenn doch ist es unglaublich schwierig gefühlt niemand kann es. Ja danke. Dann kann ichs mir doch auch sparen.
Dann Henriette. Erst sind sie und Philippe sich spinnefeind, er poussiert mit seinem Freund Armand herum, aber ihr ist es irgendwie nicht so wirklich wichtig scheints. Und auch nachdem sie eher zueinander gefunden haben ist sie so: „Joa ist zwar irgendwie nicht so cool, dass ich ihn teilen muss, aber wayne.“ Wer soll das glauben?
Überhaupt – Romantasy muss ich ja mal stark bezweifeln. Über die Hälfte des Buches hab ich überhaupt nicht verstanden, wer jetzt der Love Interest sein sollte – Louis? Philippe? Der Kopf der Sicherheit – Moreau? Henriette war wie ein Fähnlein im Wind, hat ständig ihre Meinung zu allem und jedem geändert und KAM NICHT ZU POTTE! Es war so unglaublich frustrierend.
Der Bösewicht war unfassbar blass, ich hab immer wieder vergessen wie er heißt, es gab keinen richtigen Spannungsbogen, niemand wusste irgendwas, der Showdown war dann zwar spannend zu lesen, aber auch unzufriedenstellend am Ende. Es hätte einen größeren Bumms gebraucht.
Der Schreibstil war angenehm zu lesen und ich bin einigermaßen schnell durch die Seiten gekommen und das Thema an sich – Versailles zur Zeit des Sonnenkönigs, aber mit Magie, war richtig gut, wobei die Personen, die zu Hauptcharakteren ausgewählt worden waren nicht gut ausgewählt fand. Ich hab ein bisschen zu Henriette und Philippe recherchiert und sie scheinen mir nicht besonders gut getroffen.
Insgesamt kein Buch das ich empfehlen würde und ich werde auch die Reihe weiterlesen. Glücklicherweise endet das Buch nicht auf einem Cliffhanger.
Schwierig. Auf der einen Seite haben wir Henriette – kränklich, langweilig, ist mit einem Mann verheiratet, der jemand anderen eigentlich viel interessanter findet. Auf der anderen Seite haben wir den Sonnenkönig himself, Louis, nur an sich selbst interessiert… nee das wars tatsächlich schon an Charaktereigenschaften.
Es gab unglaublich viele Dinge die mich an der Geschichte gestört haben – zu aller erst fand ich das Setting nicht ganz ausgearbeitet. Man braucht offenbar zwei Menschen um zu zaubern – eine Quelle mit Magie und einen magicien, der die Magie lenkt. Aber wie konnte der Bösewicht am Ende ganz alleine zaubern? Wieso kann Henriette am Ende die Magie lenken, wenn sie doch „nur“ eine Quelle ist? Man scheint Magie weder zu lernen, noch für irgendetwas nützlicheres als Feuerwerk und Funken gebrauchen zu können und wenn doch ist es unglaublich schwierig gefühlt niemand kann es. Ja danke. Dann kann ichs mir doch auch sparen.
Dann Henriette. Erst sind sie und Philippe sich spinnefeind, er poussiert mit seinem Freund Armand herum, aber ihr ist es irgendwie nicht so wirklich wichtig scheints. Und auch nachdem sie eher zueinander gefunden haben ist sie so: „Joa ist zwar irgendwie nicht so cool, dass ich ihn teilen muss, aber wayne.“ Wer soll das glauben?
Überhaupt – Romantasy muss ich ja mal stark bezweifeln. Über die Hälfte des Buches hab ich überhaupt nicht verstanden, wer jetzt der Love Interest sein sollte – Louis? Philippe? Der Kopf der Sicherheit – Moreau? Henriette war wie ein Fähnlein im Wind, hat ständig ihre Meinung zu allem und jedem geändert und KAM NICHT ZU POTTE! Es war so unglaublich frustrierend.
Der Bösewicht war unfassbar blass, ich hab immer wieder vergessen wie er heißt, es gab keinen richtigen Spannungsbogen, niemand wusste irgendwas, der Showdown war dann zwar spannend zu lesen, aber auch unzufriedenstellend am Ende. Es hätte einen größeren Bumms gebraucht.
Der Schreibstil war angenehm zu lesen und ich bin einigermaßen schnell durch die Seiten gekommen und das Thema an sich – Versailles zur Zeit des Sonnenkönigs, aber mit Magie, war richtig gut, wobei die Personen, die zu Hauptcharakteren ausgewählt worden waren nicht gut ausgewählt fand. Ich hab ein bisschen zu Henriette und Philippe recherchiert und sie scheinen mir nicht besonders gut getroffen.
Insgesamt kein Buch das ich empfehlen würde und ich werde auch die Reihe weiterlesen. Glücklicherweise endet das Buch nicht auf einem Cliffhanger.
February 28, 2020
This book had so many good things! I love anything set in France, and I loved the bits of French throughout. And, the historical setting was interesting, since it seemed well-researched. I really like when authors use real part of history for their stories! I thought the magic was really fun, and a creative way to have it used, through two people. Still, there were other things I didn't like. Henriette was such a strong character in some ways, but weak in others, and it just seemed inconsistent for her character. I felt like she stood up for herself in some important ways (especially with how women were treated at this time in history), but allowed herself to be treated poorly at other times. Maybe she continues to get better over time? I couldn't tell if this was intentional with her character, or just the writing itself. Overall, the writing was pretty good, and I do think the story could continue to be interesting, though honestly, it felt like it could have resolved just a little more and been a standalone. Still, I liked it enough that I will probably continue the series. It was a fun, quick read!
March 2, 2020
In the Shadow of the Sun is a historical fantasy set in 1661. Featuring a very well documented piece of history regarding Henriette of England, the book is centered around her time in the court of King Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King. Henriette was married to Phillipe d'Orleans, the King's brother. This story examines the fall of Nicolas Fouquet and the building of Versailles. EM Castellan did a fantastic job weaving magic into the backdrop of this time period.
In this version of events, magic is an integral part of life. Some people are Magicians, and some are Sources. The two must partner in order to create magic, but when Sources start getting murdered, magic becomes dangerous. It is up to Henriette alongside her friends and family to help save everyone from the evil magician responsible for the murders.
I love historical fantasy books, especially when they are set in this time period. The royal courts were filled with such beautiful clothing, such stunning architecture with gorgeous pieces of art, that it makes magic an utterly believable part of history. If ever there was a time period that I could be convinced of the existence of magic - this would be it.
It is clear that EM Castellan did extensive research for this book. So many of the people and events in the book are historically accurate. Castellan took those pieces of history and dressed them up with an enticing bit of magic, creating a book that was enjoyable from start to finish. I especially love Castellan's take on Phillipe and Henriette's marriage, turning theirs into an acceptable and sweet story of polyamory. As for the other characters, I never quite knew who to trust. I loved that the story kept me guessing and engaged.
In this version of events, magic is an integral part of life. Some people are Magicians, and some are Sources. The two must partner in order to create magic, but when Sources start getting murdered, magic becomes dangerous. It is up to Henriette alongside her friends and family to help save everyone from the evil magician responsible for the murders.
I love historical fantasy books, especially when they are set in this time period. The royal courts were filled with such beautiful clothing, such stunning architecture with gorgeous pieces of art, that it makes magic an utterly believable part of history. If ever there was a time period that I could be convinced of the existence of magic - this would be it.
It is clear that EM Castellan did extensive research for this book. So many of the people and events in the book are historically accurate. Castellan took those pieces of history and dressed them up with an enticing bit of magic, creating a book that was enjoyable from start to finish. I especially love Castellan's take on Phillipe and Henriette's marriage, turning theirs into an acceptable and sweet story of polyamory. As for the other characters, I never quite knew who to trust. I loved that the story kept me guessing and engaged.
August 6, 2020
REREAD: Four stars. I am unsure why I didn't like this the first time, because this was actually super good. Why was I so critical?? There were not that many inconsistencies, and the Philippe gay/bi thing isn't actually that big a deal. It's a really good book and I really recommend it.
Also I think that Armand, Philippe, and Henriette would be phenomenal as poly. Like if all three were in a relationship together. I ship it and I hope it happens.
---------------------------------------------------
ORIGINAL REVIEW: Three stars. This was...eh. I went into this with, perhaps, too high of expectations, which were quickly dashed. This was not what I expected. Though it was pretty good, I will say that. There were some things that surprised me in a good way. In addition, the synopsis gives the idea that Philippe is gay, when he flatout says that he's bi? Plus this was full of inconsistencies. I did, however, enjoy it enough that I will probably read the next book.
Also I think that Armand, Philippe, and Henriette would be phenomenal as poly. Like if all three were in a relationship together. I ship it and I hope it happens.
---------------------------------------------------
ORIGINAL REVIEW: Three stars. This was...eh. I went into this with, perhaps, too high of expectations, which were quickly dashed. This was not what I expected. Though it was pretty good, I will say that. There were some things that surprised me in a good way. In addition, the synopsis gives the idea that Philippe is gay, when he flatout says that he's bi? Plus this was full of inconsistencies. I did, however, enjoy it enough that I will probably read the next book.
September 29, 2019
4.5 stars
This was an intriguing magical reimagining of Louis XIV's court.
I really enjoyed Henriette's perspective and the descriptions of the glittering court, yet it didn't fall into the trap of many historicals where they over describe every outfit and every end table.
This seems to be a standalone, which is a rarity these days and I enjoyed having a complete story.
Only quibble, there is a weird verbal tic where the author uses the word "sat" incorrectly multiple times, but this was an ARC so hopefully that will get cleaned up in final edits.
This was an intriguing magical reimagining of Louis XIV's court.
I really enjoyed Henriette's perspective and the descriptions of the glittering court, yet it didn't fall into the trap of many historicals where they over describe every outfit and every end table.
This seems to be a standalone, which is a rarity these days and I enjoyed having a complete story.
Only quibble, there is a weird verbal tic where the author uses the word "sat" incorrectly multiple times, but this was an ARC so hopefully that will get cleaned up in final edits.
March 14, 2020
I wish I had read the historical note at the end of the book first because it made me respect this clever work so much more!! In the Shadow of the Sun weaves history with enchantment and magic flawlessly! From the hall of mirrors in Versailles to the king’s mistresses and beyond. I loved this story.
March 31, 2020
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
All included quotes have been taken from an ARC and may not match the finished publication.
We were royals. Our happiness was irrelevant.” Castellan,
Step into the stunning French royal life during 1661. A young English princess Henriette marries prince Philippe, the younger flamboyant brother to the newly crowned Sun King, Louis XIV of France. Henriette, must move through political intrigue, in lavishly, decadent court life. Seventeen years old Henriette has been an exiled English princess, newly reinstated when her brother King Charles II, was eventually able to be crowned King of England.
You are thrown right into a beautiful, vivid and established world with fully fleshed out characters, with courtly drama and magical realism.
This book was so entertaining and extremely hard for me to put down. I raced through this one! With unique descriptive prose, Castellan deftly weaves threads of historical iconic characters with a creative magical system that makes for a captivating tale.
Magic requires three components:
A wielder-magiciens
A conduit
And a source
Castellan delivers a well-written, unique and twisty read here that had me completely enthralled and questioning everything that was happening within the pages of this book. The way that the details were revealed to us was extremely well done and the setting was spellbinding. Character development and complex relationships, and the setting and time period are brought to life with rich and unique details.
One of my favorites by far, and I am excited for the next installment.
#feiwelandfriends #macmillanbooks #intgeshadowofthesun #emcastellan
#bookpile #yabookstagram #booksta #bookspines #bookstack #bookaccount #allthebooksmarch20
All included quotes have been taken from an ARC and may not match the finished publication.
We were royals. Our happiness was irrelevant.” Castellan,
Step into the stunning French royal life during 1661. A young English princess Henriette marries prince Philippe, the younger flamboyant brother to the newly crowned Sun King, Louis XIV of France. Henriette, must move through political intrigue, in lavishly, decadent court life. Seventeen years old Henriette has been an exiled English princess, newly reinstated when her brother King Charles II, was eventually able to be crowned King of England.
You are thrown right into a beautiful, vivid and established world with fully fleshed out characters, with courtly drama and magical realism.
This book was so entertaining and extremely hard for me to put down. I raced through this one! With unique descriptive prose, Castellan deftly weaves threads of historical iconic characters with a creative magical system that makes for a captivating tale.
Magic requires three components:
A wielder-magiciens
A conduit
And a source
Castellan delivers a well-written, unique and twisty read here that had me completely enthralled and questioning everything that was happening within the pages of this book. The way that the details were revealed to us was extremely well done and the setting was spellbinding. Character development and complex relationships, and the setting and time period are brought to life with rich and unique details.
One of my favorites by far, and I am excited for the next installment.
#feiwelandfriends #macmillanbooks #intgeshadowofthesun #emcastellan
#bookpile #yabookstagram #booksta #bookspines #bookstack #bookaccount #allthebooksmarch20
June 11, 2020
4 stars. First, I just have to say, LOOK AT THAT COVER. It is my favourite cover so far this year, and definitely an all-around fav. It perfectly encapsulates this book AND serves as wonderful eye candy.
This book was a very fun AU of a time very early in Louis XIV's reign but ~ make it magical ~. Despite being very guilty of anachronistic dialogue, I liked that the author stayed fairly accurate to the history even with the addition of *˚*magical powers*˚*. I would say that this book is a spiritual sibling to Enchantée, though the latter plays it a little looser with the historical details.
Come in here for pure glitter and light refreshment, don't expect anything very intense. Don't ask too many in-depth questions about how magic works here, because you won't get those answers. This isn't that kind of book. In this instance, I'm okay with that.
I kind of wish the author had gone balls to the walls and embraced the real thruple vibes she'd been serving, but alas. I'm not going to complain about the romance here because it's preferable to how Henriette and Philippe are cast by actual historians, where one is a shrew and the other is an insufferable fop. This version is just... better.
This book was a very fun AU of a time very early in Louis XIV's reign but ~ make it magical ~. Despite being very guilty of anachronistic dialogue, I liked that the author stayed fairly accurate to the history even with the addition of *˚*magical powers*˚*. I would say that this book is a spiritual sibling to Enchantée, though the latter plays it a little looser with the historical details.
Come in here for pure glitter and light refreshment, don't expect anything very intense. Don't ask too many in-depth questions about how magic works here, because you won't get those answers. This isn't that kind of book. In this instance, I'm okay with that.
I kind of wish the author had gone balls to the walls and embraced the real thruple vibes she'd been serving, but alas. I'm not going to complain about the romance here because it's preferable to how Henriette and Philippe are cast by actual historians, where one is a shrew and the other is an insufferable fop. This version is just... better.
November 13, 2021
Such a lovely book, with great research and an impressive self-confidence in the historical subject matter. It's not easy to take such well-known and well-recorded historical figures and events and spin them into an alternate universe and still stick so closely to what actually did happen and who these people actually were without stumbling a great deal.
I will admit there were a few times in the book where the writing felt a touch immature and a little too on-the-nose, but other than that? It was golden.
I will admit there were a few times in the book where the writing felt a touch immature and a little too on-the-nose, but other than that? It was golden.
July 1, 2023
1.5 Stars.
I mean this in the most non-offensive way possible, but I must say I was not at all surprised to learn that the author of this novel became popular on Wattpad. And that's enough said on this entire matter!
I mean this in the most non-offensive way possible, but I must say I was not at all surprised to learn that the author of this novel became popular on Wattpad. And that's enough said on this entire matter!
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