Teen Book Review: Shadow in the Dark

Shadow in the Dark: The Harwood Mysteries Book 1 by Antony Barone Kolenc

Summary:

An attack by bandits in the middle of the night leaves a young boy with no memory of who he is or where he is from. Nursed back to health by the devoted monks in a Benedictine abbey, he takes the name Alexander, or Xan for short. Aided by the kindly Brother Andrew, Xan commits himself to finding out who he really is.

Does he have a family? Are they still alive?

And who—or what—is the shadowy figure creeping around the abbey in the dead of night?

Review: 

Shadow in the Dark by Anthony Kolenc is an exciting middle-grade adventure. The story, set in a medieval village, is about a boy who is injured and loses his memory. With the help of a group of Benedictine monks, Xan (short for Alexander) begins to heal and discover his identity. In the process, he uncovers a sinister plot that not only involves his past but places him, and those around him, in danger.

This novel has a lot to offer. Adventure, mystery, history, and an abundance of faith. Older elementary and middle school boys will especially enjoy this intriguing tale. While set in the past, here are plenty of issues modern-day readers will relate to: scary tales of dark shadows, peer pressure, standing up for what is right, and discovering one’s faith. This first book in The Harwood Mysteries is a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Amazon Link

https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Dark-Harwood-Mysteries-Book-ebook/dp/B0888DVR21

A note from Reviewer:

As a writer and a mother, I’m always searching for wonderful Christian books for teens of all ages. I truly believe one way we can encourage teens in their faith is through fiction with positive messages, embedded in great stories. There are many fantastic Christian and Catholic teen novels out today but they can be hard to find. I’m excited to share some of these books with you.