Content: mental health, kidnapping, attempted murder, mental institution
A thrilling combination of acceptance, friendship, and shall we say, crushes.
Shadows of Green and Gold by Jo Holloway is the second in The Immortal Voices: Green and Gold Series and was a mysterious continuation from the first novel. After the confrontation with the Pyx kidnapper and barely getting to safety last fall, Cara still feels drawn to the old house and continues to sneak there against everyone’s will. It isn’t until they realize more Pyx are being kidnapped, that Wes and Jory joined her in finding out who the kidnapper really was and stopping them. Upon finding out the true identity, everything changed for Cara and her previous push to stop them by any means necessary completely shifted. What will she do?
I loved that we got to explore the world of Pyx and Pyxsees a bit more in depth this go round. We were able to see their strengths, weaknesses, and even more about their laws or rules. There was a higher focus on relationships this time as well. Where the last novel focused on Cara making friends and fitting in, this one had a higher focus on her first crush or crushes. Dealing with love interests can be challenging, but having these new abilities makes it a tad bit tougher.
It was great to see some psychological aspects pulled into the story as well. We already had the idea that Cara struggled with identity issues and self worth, but additionally, we were able to see some trauma, recovery, and lots of judgment. Even psychwards and therapy animals were in the mix this time. Anything that touches on mental health in an informative manner is always a win in my book!
There was one thing that didn’t feel necessary and I hope is cleared up later in the series. There was mention of her dad again but nothing came of it. I don’t see his importance to her story yet. It feels like more of it has a connection to her uncle than dad, so it feels a bit off mentioning him so heavily with no resolution or connection to the plot. Also, the time that shifted from Spring to Fall felt like too much movement. The main story occurred in the Summer and it could’ve all happened there. Starting with the end of the school year and ending with them going back to school. But in this case, it shifted into the school year and I thought it might have been smoother to have that be in the next book, time-wise. Have the content just happening in the Summer instead. Aside from that, it was a great story and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Just like the previous book, this is a great YA for those transitioning from Middle Grade to Young Adult. It’s not too long and has relatable experiences. Readers 13+ would really enjoy this journey with Cara! Additionally, anyone who is interested in urban fantasies with some suspense, this is for you!
Next in series: Darkness of Green and Gold
I award Shadows of Green and Gold 4 stars.
