Review: The Truth About Celia Frost by Paula Rawsthorne

Title: The Truth About Celia Frost
Author: Paula Rawsthorne
Publisher: Usbourne
Publication Date: 1 Aug 2011

Synopsis: From Amazon

Celia Frost is a freak. At least that's what everyone thinks. Her life is ruled by a rare disorder that means she could bleed to death from the slightest cut, confining her to a gloomy bubble of safety. No friends. No fun. No life. But when a knife attack on Celia has unexpected consequences, her mum reacts strangely. Suddenly they're on the run. Why is her mum so scared? Someone out there knows - and when they find Celia, she's going to wish the truth was a lie... A buried secret; a gripping manhunt; a dangerous deceit: what is the truth about Celia Frost? A page-turning thriller that's impossible to put down.

Review:

Firstly just let me say WOW this book was nothing like I was expecting, it is completely action packed with incredible twists and turns that you just do not see coming.

Although I will admit it is easy to figure out the 'bad' guy in this story the motivation and callousness were really shocking.

I adored Celia herself, sympathised with her life - sheltered and over-protected, a loner though not by choice; I was overjoyed when she met Sol. I really liked the wonderful way their friendship developed. They are both rather 'young' for their age probably due to them both having over-protective mothers (common ground lol) . They really bring out the best in each other. They identify something within each other that nobody else has recognised, an aspect that they identify with and compliments themselves. I would go do far as to say they are kindred spirits. Plus their blossoming relationship is just so CUTE.

Even Janice, Celia's mother, was completely relatable to a degree, although extreme in her protection of Celia she has her reasons which are divulged throughout the plot. The way in which she gives her life over to raising, protecting and nurturing Celia is a really good example of unconditional love. It isn't the type of love that should be taken for granted but it should be treasured. Any idiot can have a baby but being a good parent is something entirely different.

A lot of topical issues are raised within the story, medical ethics among them. It made me really think about the lengths I would go to if one of my children were in that position *shudders*. Even after reading it a while ago the questions continue to swirl around my head whenever I think of the story.

The use of music within the narrative and how it allows both Janice and Celia to switch off from their problems was described amazingly insightful and was so easy for me to relate to. I think I have recently stated that music is also subjective, we tend to like certain things because we can relate to them, and this isn't just about the lyrics. It is the music itself. I am sure other people who listen to music as much as I do will understand the point I am trying to make.

A truly impressive debut, I cannot wait to see what Paula Rawsthorne produces next. If you are looking for something completely different in the world of YA then this is most definitely your book.