By Kaylie Seed
Laura Sebastian’s debut adult novel, Half Sick of Shadows, is based on an Arthurian Legend where the Lady of Shalott, Elaine, reclaims her story. Elaine is cursed with knowing what the future holds and when the future comes for Elaine, Guinevere, Lancelot, and Morgana, they join Arthur as he takes the throne in Camelot.
Readers who are big on Arthurian legend will notice that there are some blurred lines when it comes to historical accuracy and authenticity. That being said, the author is subject to their own creative flare, so those readers who may be looking for historical accuracy and authenticity may want to be aware that it’s not always the case with this one. Sebastian has managed to take characters who have already been fleshed out in the original stories and through other retellings and manages to still keep them new and exciting to readers who are both familiar and unfamiliar with the original story.
Half Sick of Shadows begins in the middle of a story that is already happening, and when a book begins in the middle of a story rather than having a formal opening, it can be hard for readers to place what is going on for a couple of chapters. A non-linear timeline can be effective but when flashbacks, visions of the future, and events from the present day are all in the same chapter, it can become disjointed and difficult to follow. Readers may find themselves having to reread sections to be sure that they are following along with the plot. While the follow-through for Half Sick of Shadows may not be strong, readers will enjoy getting to know the different characters that Sebastian brings to life in her reimagining of this tale. Readers who enjoy Arthurian legend and fantasy alike will want to pick this one up.
Thank you, Penguin Random House Canada, for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.