Shard De Voor, the final book in the young adult fantasy trilogy by A.J. White, brings the exciting events of the previous books to a satisfying conclusion. Cal awakens in a hospital, grappling with their lost memories and newfound gender identity. As Cal’s recovery progresses, their memories snap back into place, fuelling their eagerness to re-join the fight and reunite with their friends. However, events have moved on, and Cal must now adapt to their new reality and find a way to bring an end to the ongoing war.
The pace of the book initially starts off slow, allowing readers to delve deeper into Cal’s psyche. While this provides a greater understanding of Cal as a character, I occasionally found myself wanting to skip ahead to the more action-packed moments teased by Cal’s brief visions. However, the story soon gains momentum, making for an engaging and entertaining read.
One of the highlights of Shard De Voor is the introduction of the titular artifact, which grants Cal new abilities to aid in the fight. I particularly enjoyed the connection to the Rod of Xerus from the previous book, adding a sense of continuity and depth. However, I would have liked to see more exploration of the artifact and its full potential.
The author skilfully explores Cal’s psyche through their memory loss and the adjustments they have had to make from transitioning between worlds and genders. The portrayal of Cal’s emotional journey is compelling and adds both depth and complexity to the character, enhancing the overall narrative. The groundwork laid in previous books invests readers in the characters’ outcomes, heightening the stakes for the final battle.
In terms of editorial quality, there are no significant issues, and the dialogue remains believable throughout. A.J. White’s writing style keeps readers immersed in the fantastical world they have created
Overall, I would award Shard De Voor by A.J. White 5 stars. The captivating storyline, well-developed characters, and the exploration of identity make it a highly enjoyable read. Fans of the trilogy will be pleased with this satisfying conclusion.