Book Review: The Long Shadows by Jodi Taylor

“And the thing about revenge is that although it might be sweet, it’s always too late. The worst has already happened. Revenge is . . . yes . . . now I had it. Revenge is punishment.”

― Jodi Taylor, Long Shadows

The Elizabeth Cage books are ideal for fans of Sarah Painter and Genevieve Cogman because they are twisty, dark, and immensely compelling. gripping and rife with intriguing story twists. An unpredictable thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

The identity of Elizabeth Cage has always been a mystery. Even she doesn't know who, or what, she is. But she's learned to live with it.

Until now, when what should have been a peaceful holiday turns into anything but, and Elizabeth is forced to recognise that she isn't what she seems.

But neither is anyone else. Has her whole life been a lie?

Someone very badly wants to know the truth about Elizabeth Cage. And they'll do anything to find out. But who will live to regret it?

My reaction to this novel...

Because of this Elizabeth Cage series, I got to know Jodi Taylor as a writer, and I'm delighted I was able to finish the third book in the series. Though I did not appreciate the second one, all I can say is that what I have felt in this third book is a complete opposite of what I felt in the second. This third book was excellent. It was as though I felt what I felt during the first book, and I was overjoyed about it. Because of the cliffhanger at the conclusion, I hope the author will create another novel that picks up where this one left off.

I was startled several times, particularly at the scene in the mirror. I pictured myself staring in the mirror as Elizabeth Cage did. I was so frightened that I developed goosebumps all over. There were also moments when I was reading it in my kitchen and it was so gloomy and rainy that I had to put it down because my imagination was conjuring up some spooky scenarios from the novel. Even though I had those feelings, I like that about this book since the author had me hooked on the narrative, which ultimately made me want more.

I was also saddened when Elizabeth learned something about her history, which I won't mention here so as not to be a huge spoiler, but I could truly feel the sorrow and sadness as the author attempted to convey it to the readers through her characters. I had the impression that I was riding a roller coaster in the dark while unsure of when the following loop and drop would occur. Since I truly enjoy riding roller coasters, it was a lot of fun for me.

I greatly appreciate the author's talent for developing likeable characters. Her characters are so richly developed that I feel like I know them personally. This third book never has the contradictions that other authors utilize to make up for poor story lines. The twists keep popping up, and just when you believe you've got that sorted out, the twist is revealed, and your jaw drops. Every time I finish reading one of her stories and realize there won't be another adventure, I become a bit heartbroken. I thus heartily suggest this book to everyone who enjoys reading thrillers and suspense novels. Be warned: this one may cause your hair to raise at the back of your neck, as it did to me multiple times. I'm glad I learned about and read Jodi Taylor's work. It was truly incredible, and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)

“Time does not heal. Time just adds to the burden.”

Although it is said that time cures all wounds, for some people, this is not the case as time just makes their pain worse. The reason they are unable to move on may be that they are still in the same position that caused them to suffer over time. As a result, even if time passes, it does not heal the wounds; rather, it just makes them worse, especially with each memory it brings to the person who is still hurting.