This review is spoiler free.
“Because the hero of one story is the villain of someone else’s. It’s all just a matter of who wins.”
Series: The Shadow Game
Published: 2019, by HQ Young Adult.
Pages: 599
Format: ebook/ARC from Netgalley
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult
Contains: Death, Violence, Blood/Gore, Arson, Torture, Implied Strong Language, Sexual Content, Murder, Grief
I received a copy of this book from HQ Young Adult through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
‘King of Fools’ is the second instalment of Amanda Foody’s Shadow Game series, following reluctant allies, Levi Glaisyer and Enne Salta, on the quest to find Lourdes. However, with newfound fame and bounties on their heads, Enne and Levi face new strains on their relationships with deadly secrets in their wake.
‘Ace of Shades’ was possibly my favourite read of this year, so I knew the moment this sequel was released that I’d love it. However, I didn’t quite expect to love it this much.
‘King of Fools’ introduces a new narrative, Levi’s second-in-command Jac, who I immediately fell in love with. His dark history and relationship with Levi was gripping to read, followed by his quick-wittiness and devotion to those around him. The story flows beautifully between the three narratives, bouncing between all areas of New Reynes and exploring the inner politics in detail. Although, a little difficult to follow the time-frame on occasion, ‘King of Fools’ goes deeper into Foody’s world than the first novel to show just what the City of Sin has to offer.
Levi and Enne’s relationship is put to the test in this instalment, with heavy secrets and challenging tasks forcing them apart. However, whenever they were brought together again I felt my heart in my mouth. I adore the couple. Their relationship is expressive (as much as it can be), brutal, and deeply devoted, leaving everyone following the pages to inwardly squeal whenever they were in the others eye lines.
Although, ‘King of Fools’ is a bit of a daunting novel, being nearly six hundred pages, the content within is fast paced and gripping throughout. It makes for a brilliant read, never once having a dull moment and still left me wanting more.
Overall, I loved this book. The characters have special places in my heart and I’m desperate for the next instalment.
5/5
Who’s your favourite character in the shadow game series?
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