Parents' Guide to

To Kill a Shadow: Mistlands, Book 1

By Lucinda Dyer, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Teen heroine goes on a mythic quest in violent fantasy.

Book Katherine Quinn Fantasy 2023
To Kill a Shadow book cover: Illustration of a huge spray of dark and pale purple flowers

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

TO KILL A SHADOW is set in the mythical kingdom of Asidian, a land left in darkness after the disappearance of Raina, the Sun Goddess. Kiara (Ki) Frey lives with her parents and younger brother in a world where crops are failing and people are starving. The Knights of the Enteral Star arrive in her village for a "Calling" of boys to become recruits into the Knights of the Eternal Star. The knights are led by the fearsome Commander Jude Maddox, whose face and body are covered in spiked armor to disguise his supposed disfigurement by grisly creatures. To prevent her brother from being chosen, Ki steps forward and after proving she's as fearsome a fighter as any boy, Jude selects her for knight training. She makes friends with fellow recruits Patrick, Jake and Nic and much to her surprise begins a slowly unfolding romance with Jude. Before their training is finished, the king orders a small band of recruits be sent into a land called the Mist on what's likely a suicide mission. They're to find and reunite three objects that belonged to Raina to break the curse that keeps the kingdom in darkness. In the Mist, Ki, Jude, Patrick, Nic, and Jake must battle unspeakable horrors as they try to save themselves and Asidian.


Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Despite vividly drawn characters, impressive world building, and an unexpected romance, the story is often overwhelmed by long stretches of horror, blood, and gore. The boldly drawn character of Ki makes To Kill a Shadow an inspiring read for teens who sometimes feel like outsiders and a powerful storyline about friendship explores both the rewards and costs of loyalty. Fantasy horror fans will find what they love here, but this may not be the right pick for more squeamish readers looking for a sweeping fantasy romance. As the first book in a planned duology, author Katherine Quinn has certainly given fans a lot to come back for in the final installment.


Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the importance that friendship and teamwork played in To Kill a Shadow. When has teamwork helped you get through something difficult?

  • How hard is it for girls as courageous and outspoken as Ki to be accepted in the real world?


  • Does the violence in fantasy novels affect you in a different way than violence on TV or in movies and video games?


Book Details

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