”Throughout history, people with new ideas – who think differently and try to change things – have always been called troublemakers.” (Vasilisa Dragonmir)
Shadow Kiss adds so much to the Vampire Academy world. The scope of the series is expanded, the characters develop even more, the political sphere is changing and there are more questions and answers related to magic, spirit and being shadow-kissed along with a vampire boarding school in the background.
Rose’s character growth is impressive. She’s still an impulsive and snarky badass, but after the events in Frostbite, she’s taken on more responsibilities and she’s matured.
Lissa is also growing into her own. She’s starting to become a strong leader and political figure and a terrifyingly talented spirit user.
I also liked the progression of Rose’s and Lissa’s friendship, especially the way things ended in Shadow Kiss, because I’m expecting a lot more character growth. Rose has always put Lissa before herself and Lissa has always had Rose by her side. I’m interested in seeing Rose go on her own journey and also seeing Lissa dealing with life without her lifelong friend and companion at her side.
Rose and Christian have a love-hate relationship and I love their friendship dynamics. They respect each other and defend each other but they find each other's presence annoying.
I’m also such a fan of the sickeningly sweet romance between Lissa and Christian. Those two are meant to be together. This is where I should also admit that I’m a Christian Ozera fangirl.
However, I don’t care much about the relationship between Rose and Dmitri. I’m not invested in their relationship, but I also don’t find their relationship annoying or frustrating.
The best part of Shadow Kiss is the plot. Everything is so well thought-out and trivial things and subplots come together to create an amazing story. From the mystery of a secret society to seeing ghosts along with a jaw-dropping climax and a heart wrenching ending…
Shadow Kiss might just be the best book in the Vampire Academy series.
”Rose is in red
But never in blue
Sharp as a thorn
Fights like one too.”
(Adrian Ivashkov)