Book Review: An Instruction in Shadow (Inheritance of Magic, #2) by Benedict Jacka
Happy Release Day to An Instruction in Shadow! I was thrilled to dive back into the vibrant world of drucraft that Benedict Jacka has intricately woven, and this sequel did not disappoint. I would like to extend a big thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions here are my own, and I’m excited to share my thoughts with you.
From the moment I started reading, I was captivated by Stephen and his loyal, enhanced cat Hobbs as they navigated the enchanting—yet perilous—realms of this magical universe. In this installment, Stephen is finding his footing in a world filled with mystical wells that allow him to refine his drucraft skills, create magical gems, and make a little pocket money. His journey, however, isn’t just about survival and gaining riches; he’s also on an emotional quest to locate his missing father, adding layers of depth and urgency to his character.
Stephen’s determination to uncover the past intersects with thrilling action and intense conflict as he encounters powerful foes at every turn. I found myself rooting for him wholeheartedly, especially as the gravity of his circumstances intensifies with every attempt to reclaim his father’s history. Here, Jacka expertly balances world-building with character development; while we uncover the intricacies of both the legitimate and shadow economies of the drucraft world, we also see Stephen confronting his familial ties, making the stakes feel personal and real.
This book moves at a brisk pace that had me glancing at my watch and wishing I could steal a few more moments with it. Jacka’s writing is fluid and engaging, often sparking laughter with Hobbs’s witty quips, while pulling on the heartstrings during poignant moments between Stephen and his roommates, including his sister and Calhoun—the heir to a significant magical dynasty. Their interactions felt genuine and relatable, showcasing a supportive, albeit tumultuous, familial backdrop.
What truly resonated with me were the nuanced themes that emerged throughout the narrative. The exploration of the shadow economy and the emerging factions within the drucraft community added layers of complexity that left me eager to learn more. Stephen might not be the most powerful drucrafter yet, but he has an instinct for strategy that hints at great potential. His journey is one of growth, and every challenge he faces feels like a stepping stone towards a more formidable self.
A notable highlight for me was the ending—a tantalizing teaser that stirred my excitement for the next installment. While romance takes a backseat in this book, I can’t help but sense a budding connection for Stephen that promises to unfold in future chapters. It brings an extra layer of intrigue to the overall uncertainty of his journey.
Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend An Instruction in Shadow to fans of urban fantasy and those who enjoyed Jacka’s Alex Verus series. This book feels like a masterclass in world-building and character complexity, making it a delightful experience for both newcomers and returning readers. Personally, this sequel impacted me by reigniting my curiosity for the intricacies of magic and family—key components that resonate with us all.
I can’t wait to see where Stephen’s journey leads next!
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