Cassidy is a quirky protagonist. She is quiet, introverted, but brave and willing to jump into situations head first. She is young and naïve, yet smart and a quick learner. While she doesn’t grow as a character, she is introduced to a new world and must quickly learn how to survive it. Her narration is often simplistic and childish, however that is entirely due to the fact that this is a middle grade book written for a younger audience. Despite the younger demographic, Victoria Schwab’s excellent character writing makes Cassidy appealing to older readers as well.
City of Ghosts is a surprisingly good read. The story’s pacing is a gentle build, easing readers into the story with a haunting setting and whispers of danger, before quickly accelerating as the dangers become real. From there, the book’s pacing sprints forward until it reaches the conclusion.
The pacing is beautifully complimented by plot which focuses on wandering and exploring the beautiful city of Edinburgh before discovering the danger that the lies just behind the Veil.
Victoria Schwab masterfully brings the city to life by juxtaposing haunting imagery with old architecture and historical tales. While the story is creepy and exciting, no adult reader would find the book scary. However, a young reader might find the book terrifying especially since Cassidy must face her trials alone. Although she has a ghost friend to light the way and provide some much needed moral support, Jacob can do little to interfere or alter the events of the story, leaving Cassidy to face the malice of the city’s ghosts all on her own.
I give this 285 page book 4 stars.