It was therefore no surprise when I went to the author’s bio and saw Robert Jordan listed among his influences. At the same time, I didn’t get the sense that Islington was out to shake up the genre when he wrote this book, and in fact parts of it feel almost like a loving homage to the classic themes in epic fantasy. Reminiscent of Wheel of Time? Definitely. But before his test could come to pass, he is visited in the dead of night by a mysterious newcomer, who gives our young hero a quest to undertake that could change his own fate and that of the world. If anyone finds out about his secret, it could spell very bad news for Davian. Worse, he is beginning to suspect there is something wrong with his own gift, which sounds suspiciously like something that the Augurs used to wield. Now Davian’s final trial is fast approaching, and he still has not been able to master drawing on Essence, the element that fuels magic.
At the end of their time at school, Gifteds are required to pass a final test to prove they can control their powers, and those that fail must face the lonely fate of being ostracized and forgotten-their memories and abilities wiped away. However, even then they are in no way safe. He and his friends Wirr and Asha attend a school for those like them, a place where they are sheltered and trained to use their magic. One of our main protagonists is a young Gifted named Davian who has always lived in the shadow of the war. The Gifted themselves were only spared retribution following the rebellion because they agreed to uphold the Four Tenets, promising to adhere to the rules which would keep their own powers in check. These were powerful individuals with god-like abilities which they used to enslave the Gifted, other magic users who were forced to serve their stronger masters. Two decades have passed since the Augurs were defeated and wiped out. The first part of the story introduces us to an interesting lore-filled world. This is James Islington’s first novel, and though that sometimes shows in the raw quality the writing, overall it is a solid series opener and I can certainly understand the reason for all the attention and praise. Fast forward to the moment I finished reading the book, and I all I have to say is: I am impressed. Whenever I hear about an indie fantasy that makes the jump to a traditional publishing house, it always piques my curiosity and of course The Shadow of What Was Lost was no exception. The Shadow of What Was Lost by James Islington This does not affect the contents of my review and all opinions are my own. I received a review copy from the publisher. Book Review: The Shadow of What Was Lost by James Islington
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