A review by shealwaysreads
A Door in the Dark by Scott Reintgen

3.75

Happy Sunday!!! I finished reading A Door in the Dark by Scott Reintgen last night, and I’ve got some thoughts to share! I’d give it about 3.75 stars. It’s definitely an intriguing read, but it had its highs and lows for me.

First off, the premise is super cool. It’s all about magic, mystery, and that classic coming-of-age vibe as the characters navigate a world filled with secrets and hidden doors. I really enjoyed the creative world-building—Reintgen has a knack for making the fantastical feel real and relatable. The magic system is unique, and I loved how it tied into the characters’ development.

Speaking of characters, I found them pretty compelling, especially the protagonist. They have a relatable struggle with identity and belonging, which is always a win in my book. However, I did feel like some of the secondary characters could have used a bit more depth. There were moments when I wanted to know more about their backstories and motivations, but they felt a little underdeveloped.

The pacing was a bit of a rollercoaster. Some parts were super engaging, while others dragged a bit. I think tightening up those slower sections would have really elevated the overall experience. But once the plot picked up, I was hooked again! 

If you’re into books like A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab or The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater, I think you’d find a lot to enjoy here. It has that mix of magic and mystery that keeps you turning the pages, and the friendships really shine through.

Overall, A Door in the Dark is a solid read with a lot of potential. If you’re looking for a blend of magic, adventure, and a touch of mystery, give it a shot! Just be prepared for a few bumps along the way.