Duskshade offers a moody, magic tinged world with plenty of atmosphere, and Patershuk and Dobson clearly have a strong vision for their story. The lore is intriguing, the setting feels lived in, and there are moments where the tension really clicks.
For me, though, the book doesn’t always maintain its momentum. Some scenes are wonderfully immersive, while others feel a little rushed or underdeveloped. The characters have compelling dynamics, but a few emotional beats don’t quite land with the impact they’re aiming for.
Still, it’s a solid, imaginative fantasy with flashes of brilliance. If you enjoy dark magic, layered worlds, and stories that blend character drama with creeping mystery, Duskshade has enough to keep you turning the pages.