ALA Booklist (Fri Nov 01 00:00:00 CDT 2019)

Evil Lady Aisling (Shadow Weaver duology) is imprisoned, but dark magic still lurks in Parilla. After Emmaline, the shadow weaver, and her friends free the magical children Lady Aisling trapped, relatives and friends come for them. However, no one comes for Simone, a mind weaver (reader). She refers to herself and the others Lady Aisling used as hollow dolls. With her memories erased, Simone only has the names of a town and four people to serve as a starting point for her search for family and answers. Simone and her friend Sebastian decide to set out for the Parillian Archives, where they receive help from Rachel, a library assistant. As answers to Simone's questions emerge, dangers and fears arise, as well. While retaining the familiar fantasy setting and some characters from the Shadow Weaver duology, Connolly deftly answers the questions left dangling at the end of Comet Rising (2019), even as she introduces new characters and a gripping plot with a twist l sure to captivate readers who devoured the first set.

Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

In this entertaining start to a new series set in the same world as the Shadow Weaver duology, a young woman whose memories were magically stripped away searches for her long-lost family, only to discover that a terrifying foe may be hunting her. Simone, whose talent for mind reading led to her prolonged enslavement by the wicked Lady Aisling, is finally free to seek her own destiny. With her friend Sebastian, who still feels guilty for his part in stealing her memories, Simone travels to the Parillan Archives, where she hopes the librarians can aid her. Soon, though, she realizes that they-ve been followed by a body walker intent on using Simone-s talents to pursue its own sinister agenda. Picking up threads begun in the Shadow Weaver titles, the story relies heavily on knowledge of the previous entries. And much of the setting remains vaguely described, leading to a feeling of distance and disconnect. However, Connolly does continue to expand upon her world, and Simone-s attempt to unravel the secrets of her past is relatable. Ages 8-14. Agent: Suzie Townsend, New Leaf Literary. (Jan.)

School Library Journal (Sun Dec 01 00:00:00 CST 2019)

Gr 4-6 Recently released from the clutches of evil Lady Aisling, best friends Simone and Sebastian are eager to finally reunite with their families. The Lady captured them because they are among the "talented"those granted special abilities when the Cerelia Comet passed by in the year of their birth. Simone is a mind reader, and Sebastian is a memory stealer. The "comet-blessed" used to be important members of society, but things have changed, and many now hide their talents. Sebastian is delighted to find his sister, Jemma, but there is no trace of Simone's family. All she remembers is the name of her hometown, Wren. The three set off on an arduous journey to the Parillan Archives, hoping that the librarians there will help find answers for Simone. While their talents protect them from some dangers along the way, their constant fear is encountering a body walker, someone who can take control of another's body and mind. This fantasy covers a lot of groundsuspense, friendship, bravery, family, and magic. Plot twists will surprise even readers paying close attention, and loose ends lay the groundwork for a sequel. VERDICT Simone's desire and drive to recover what she's lost will resonate with readers. A recommended purchase for most libraries. Sara-Jo Lupo Sites, George F. Johnson Memorial Library, Endicott, NY