This is so much fun. Incredible world building - detailed without being overwhelming and so cinematic - and the cast of characters are wonderful. I was completely hooked and couldn't wait to find out what was happening, but also hugely enjoyed the incidental scenes giving us more of an insight into daily life as a Silhouette. Will be recommending far and wide!

It has magic and a school, but this felt less Rowling and more Prattchett, with lots of magical elements thrown to you in a chaotic way; but while that's a praise in his books, it's not in this instance. I feel this novel needs polishing. The purpose of the book seems to be to introduce you to this universe, since it finishes when things start to happen, but after 350 pages I was left with more questions than answers about it, I feel lost in this world.

It would benefit of an explanation of the different realms and what each does. I found the school system nonsensical, sometimes there doesn't seem to be a distinction between alumni and teachers; you join the same class doesn't matter when you start; and the tests are the same regardless of your level, for some their last test is the same than for others the first one, someone that's there for a year fails a test that people that have been there less than a week pass? Do they learn anything in that school? Also, what's the purpose for society of this immortal beings? What's their skillset, beside age-shifting, how are their powers used to help society?

It still has good elements to it and looks like a good bit of work was done in building this universe, so although three stars is possibly generous, two stars would feel too harsh.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this ARC in exchange of my honest review

The characters are well rounded and believable. Zhi Ging’s character has been extremely well thought-out and her back story has significant repercussions for the plot which was good to see.

The world building was magnificent throughout the book. Siobhan McDermott uses all the sense to create stimulating descriptions to provide the reader with an evocative picture of the floating market, the dragon boat races and I could imagine the corridors and various classrooms of Hok Woh vividly.

Events happen really fast especially as we reach the climatic ending. I hardly had enough time to breath. For some this may be overwhelming but for me I thought it was brilliant. I like the feel I am in the thick of the action and do get bored when reading meandering prose, so The Fight for the Hidden Realm was ideally paced for me.

The character name explanations at the back of the book made me laugh. I was impressed at the amount of thought Siobhan McDermott had put into it. However, I believe it has confirmed my suspicions on who the other conspirator is. Now I have to read the second book in the series to see if I am right.

Ideal for readers who love fantasy adventure.

I LOVED this book! I slowly got into it and then it completely hooked me. I was hanging off every chapter and I grew to so love all the characters. The concept and story was just stunning and I’ve already said it, but I’ll say it again: I loved it!

Following Zhi Ging, we’re introduced to the world with her, of Silhouettes, mystery magic, trials and new friendships. All the elements of the story were just done so well and it made for an effortless and enjoyable read. I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen and honestly had no idea how it was going to conclude!

I raced through it in a few days and now I want my own Malo. The cutest little sidekick and he made a great addition to the story. And oof, after that ending I am definitely invested and can’t wait to see how the story develops!

An Asian orphan in earlier (even imaginary) times is not likely to have an easy ride in life. But when she is given the chance to become a Silhouette, it is potentially a game-changer for 12 year old Zhi Ging. Because Silhouettes are apprentices to the Immortals, and they have the opportunity to see and experience things that ordinary human beings can only dream of.

Of course it is not that simple. Is it ever? Zhi Ging must now compete in a series of trials in order to complete her training.

And, to her dismay, it turns out that strange things are happening that are not properly explained to the participants. Silhouettes who are unsuccessful are mysteriously disappearing.

So what is happening to them? And what do the rumours of the emergence of dark and threatening forces mean for Zhi Ging?

This is an enjoyable story that delivers on the fantasy aspect successfully, inspired by elements of mythology and culture. Zhi Ging explores the landscape around her both overground and underwater in a series of adventures that transport the reader to a different world, where anything can happen and many magical things do...