Review: Kiss, Date, Love, Hate by Luisa Plaja

Title: Kiss, Date, Love, Hate

Author: Luisa Plaja

Publisher: Corgi Childrens

Publication Date: 2 Feb 2012

Source: Review Copy

Challenge: BBC

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

What if you could change your friends' lives and loves through the settings of a computer game...?

Lex Murphy's group of friends have all dated, hated, ignored and lusted after each other for the last few years. If only there was a way of matching people perfectly to avoid all the unrequited love, dumping and drama! Then Lex's friend George is given a mysterious Sims-like game by his software-testing dad which involves building character profiles in the categories of Life, Looks and Love. Lex and George populate the game with avatars for all their mates, making a few 'wishful thinking' adjustments to the settings - and find that the next day these tinkerings have come true! But how long can this new calm, loved-up atmosphere continue?

REVIEW

The first thing I would like to say about this book is how well Luisa Plaja creates realistic teen narrative voices. This does however, mean that they are not necessarily like-able to begin with. 

Told in first person narrative from the viewpoint of Lex. I adored the Jurassic Park link to the name. Lex is very much a daydreamer, she lives inside her head and is easily distracted. I can completely relate to this - ohhh look there is a squirrel [ ; D ] Lex continually over-thinks things, she isn't good with praise and finds numerous ways in which to alter what has been said, twisting it until it suits the way she views herself.

Friends and families are portrayed as extremes. When viewed from the outside this exaggeration of personalities enables greater insight into the relationship, making it easy to see who really does belong together. I especially adored George in all his geekiness and Drew in his bad boy pierced hotness. If only kissing had been that good when I was a teen. Believe me the kissing scenes have smoke coming from the pages. 

The way life shapes personalities provided a powerful undercurrent to the plot. Insightful narrative shows the way modern society has changed the view we have of family units, the stereotypical Mum, Dad and 2.5 children no longer exists. It is more likely to be single parents or second marriages. The revelations regarding past history of the characters and their interactions kept the pace flowing. Humorous moments and a fabulous helping of sarcasm all add to the individual characterizations. 

The first half of the book concentrates on the game building and its affect on the characters. The concept of a computer game altering aspects of real life is intriguing. If you had the ability to alter your appearance or enchant people to like you with the simple click of a mouse - Would You? It would be like the modern equivalent of waving a magic wand. I am pretty sure I would make myself slimmer, look younger and be more optimistic just as a start [ ; D ]

The second half of the book is where the revelations occur tying everything together beautifully. Showing how and when events occurred to cause the current interactions. Impeccable writing draws all the characters history together while blending it with the current plot.

One of the things that stood out for me within the story-line was the way in which people make assumptions about other people based on their looks/where they have seen them. Drew is the best example of not judging a book by its cover. 

Lex's journey through this book is fabulously portrayed. Not only does she understand herself better; she also appreciates her friends and family in a whole new way. There is hope for everyone in the end that everything has worked out for the best and is where it is supposed to be.

Luisa has a knack of creating utterly realistic and believable characters; her teens are flawed, insular and pessimistic. Ask anyone who works with teens and they will tell you, Luisa has them pegged. The insight into the inner workings of a teens mind is both encouraging and frightening in equal measure, this is speaking as a Mother of a pre-teen. 

Another brilliant book from a brilliant author. 

Review: Scattering Like Light by SC Ransom

Title: Scattering Like Light

Series: Small Blue Thing

Author: SC Ransom

Publisher: Nosy Crow

Publication Date: 1 Jan 2012

Source: Review Copy

Rating: 4/5

Challenge: BBC

Synopsis from Goodreads

Alex knows there's a way that she and Callum can be together. Catherine holds the key to unlocking the secret but she's disappeared. Olivia has answers, too, but they're hidden deep inside her troubled mind and won't be found. It seems impossible but Alex can't give up. The question is, how much will she risk to be with the one she loves? Could it be everything?

REVIEW

Please bear in mind that this is the third and final book in the trilogy and therefore the review may contain spoilers for the previous books.

Scattering Like Light picks straight up where Perfectly Reflected leaves the story. The main focus being the power the amulet wields and how Alex is able to use it. Nice recaps are placed throughout the narrative to reinforce key elements of the plot. Although I would recommend that you read the entire series it isn't absolutely necessary in order to be able to follow the story-line

The change of location rejuvenated the imagery, providing a pleasant interlude for both reader and Alex. The introduction of an alternative love interest for Alex in the form of Max gave the story an added realistic element. Alex's best friend, Grace, embodies the voice of reason and logic, stating precisely the benefits of a 'real' relationship, 'healthier' in many respects. Re-enforced later in the plot by Catherine's twisted argument.

I actually really adored Max, fully empathizing with Alex's guilt at being drawn to him.  Not only hot but deep down a total geek *swoon* plus he was so nice.I really could see Max and Alex together. Poor Callum.

The plight of the dirges is poignantly portrayed. The full extent of their misery revealed causing conflicting emotions as to whether people should live in suffering or helped to attain peace. A powerful concept compassionately explored within the plot.

There are a number of unexpected twists to the action that took the story to a completely unexpected direction, the threads of the plot coming together beautifully. The ending was simply that beautiful. The additional information regarding the history of the amulet in the prologue provided great insight and rounded of the end of the trilogy perfectly.

I am looking forward to see what Sue has in store for us next.

Review: Dark Parties by Sara Grant

Title: Dark Parties

Author: Sara Grant

Publisher: Indigo

Publication Date: 22 Dec 2011
Challenge: BBC

Synopsis from Goodreads

Sixteen-year-old Neva has been trapped since birth. She was born and raised under the Protectosphere, in an isolated nation ruled by fear, lies, and xenophobia. A shield "protects" them from the outside world, but also locks the citizens inside. But there's nothing left on the outside, ever since the world collapsed from violent warfare. Or so the government says...

Neva and her best friend Sanna believe the government is lying and stage a "dark party" to recruit members for their underground rebellion. But as Neva begins to uncover the truth, she realizes she must question everything she's ever known, including the people she loves the most.

REVIEW

Dark Parties is a very unique dystopian world, an entire society created in what can only be described as a plastic bubble called the protectosphere.  Not much insight is divulged as to why the protectosphere was created. History has been re-written within the sphere, government corruption and  nefarious plots abound. Adding to the tension and world building within the narrative. Nothing appeared to be what it seemed.

Written in first person narrative from Neva's perspective. The daughter of a government official she has more freedom and protection than most. Yet her actions come under scrutiny due to her grandmothers escape from the protectosphere. Even though the general population is lead to believe that the land outside of the protectosphere is dangerous.

The writing style is beautifully tactile and enveloped the senses. Working with teens I see the strive for individuality on a daily basis, even if they do all end up with the same hairstyles (especially the boys) the way in which that individuality has been striped from society was poignantly portrayed. I just cannot imagine a world/society where everyone looks the same, in every way. It is quite chilling to think about and had shades of  what Hitler was trying to achieve came to mind especially with the name Homeland used. Resorting to marking themselves via scars and permanent marker in order to stand out. As Viv from Serendipity Reviews points out in her review (HERE) the symbolism of the snowflake is very striking within the story-line. Each snowflake is completely individual yet the society within the protectosphere all look the same *shudders*

The characters and their interactions worked really well together. Begging the question - how well do you really know someone? People do not always do what you expect them to do. Self preservation generally takes the foreground.

The plot has a number of surprising twists that really kept me on my toes. I still have a lot of questions about certain aspects and would really like to see a second book to deal with these outstanding issues. I really enjoyed the glimpse into Neva's world but would really like answers to certain aspects of the plot, as I keep mentioning. My rating reflects my need for answers. A truly unique dystopian.

Review: A Witch In Winter by Ruth Warburton

Title: A Witch in Winter

Series: Winter Trilogy #1

Author: Ruth Warburton

Publisher: Hodder Children's Books

Publication Date: 5 Jan 2012

Source: Reviewed for We Love This Book

Challenge: DAB and BBC

Synopsis from Goodreads

Anna Winterson doesn't know she's a witch and would probably mock you for believing in magic, but after moving to the small town of Winter with her father, she learns more than she ever wanted to about power. When Anna meets Seth, she is smitten, but when she enchants him to love her, she unwittingly amplifies a deadly conflict between two witch clans and splits her own heart in two. She wants to love Seth, to let him love her – but if it is her magic that's controlling his passion, then she is as monstrous as the witch clan who are trying to use her amazing powers for their own gain.

REVIEW

The cover drew me to this book I know the minute I laid eyes on it that I had to have it. I am sure a few fellow bloggers know that feeling well.

I will start by saying that THANK GOD IT IS A trilogy. The story is a tumultuous mix of action and emotion yet there is so so so much more that needs to be answered. The good news is that the wait is only until July for Book 2 A Witch in Love.

Written in first person narrative, Anna, has had to move to the coastal town of Winter due to her father’s redundancy and slight breakdown. This particularly hit a raw nerve with me. However, the gorgeous old house they move into more than made up for the move (for me at least). The Gothic architecture depicted completely won me over even with all the work it needed doing to renovate it. I wanted to move there, but without the creepiness. The marks scored into the wooden doorframes added to the atmosphere, their purpose for protection added to the story building.

The writing is wonderfully British especially for the insults; there were parts I literally snorted out loud. Rich descriptive writing creates a realistic and completely relatable community. I loved that there were cliques even among witches. It really added the dynamics of the story. Who are the good guys, which side to choose?? I could feel the changes in the weather that were depicted, sensory encompassing vivid descriptions building the atmosphere and following the action and emotion was just brilliant to picture.

I completely adored Seth, not only is he gorgeous but he is a NICE GUY. From the moment that Anna and Seth met I felt that there was a deep connection between them. Their shared loss of a parent initially gave them common ground but the way in which they were able to relax around each other and be themselves emphasised their connection. I did find it quite frustrating that Anna didn’t have the self-confidence to believe that Seth could genuinely like her.

As I said at the beginning thank goodness this is a trilogy as I felt that the story barely broke the surface of what I NEED to know. There are a ton of questions that need to be answered. I have the second book firmly on my wish-list for July.

British Books Challenge 2012

We have already established that I am completely useless when it comes to linking my posts to challenges.

I do love this challenge though and will endeavor to do the same as the Debut Author Challenge and list the books on a monthly basis. I know where I am then, lol.

JANUARY

A Witch in Winter by Ruth Warburton

15 Days Without a Head by Dave Cousins

Scattering Like Light by SC Ransom

Dark Parties by Sara Grant

Update - British Books Challenge 2011

So apparent from completely forgetting to link my reviews. I thought it might be interesting to see just how many books by British Authors I did actually read last year.

Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf by Curtis Jobling

The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney

Immortal by Gillian Shields

The Returners by Gemma Malley

Rockaholic by CJ Skuse

Jessie Hearts NYC by Keris Stainton

Department 19 by Will Hill

Wolven by Di Toft

Small Blue Thing by SC Ransom

Betrayal by Gillian Shields

Perfectly Reflected by SC Ransom

Sophie and the Shadow Woods by Lee Weatherly and Linda Chapman

My So-Called Haunting by Tamsyn Murray

Flood and Fang by Marcus Sedgewick

Angel's Fury by Bryony Pearce

The Vampire Hunters by Pete Johnson

Dark Angel by Eden Maguire

A Most Improper Magick by Stephanie Burgis

The Truth About Celia Frost by Paula Rawsthorne

A Tangle of Magicks by Stephanie Burgis

Lia's Guide to Winning the Lottery by Keren David

Soul Beach by Kate Harrison

Diary of a Wimpy Vampire: The Prince of Dorkness by Tim Collins

Midwinterblood by Marcus Sedgwick

Wickedness by Deborah White

I know this isn't a great deal compared to a lot of people but it is more than I was originally aiming for.

Review: Hollow Pike by James Dawson

Title: Hollow Pike

Series: Not Confirmed

Author: James Dawson

Publisher: Indigo

Publication Date: 2 Feb 2012
Challenge: DAB and BBC

Synopsis from Goodreads

Something wicked this way comes... She thought she'd be safe in the country, but you can't escape your own nightmares, and Lis London dreams repeatedly that someone is trying to kill her. Lis thinks she's being paranoid - after all who would want to murder her? She doesn't believe in the local legends of witchcraft. She doesn't believe that anything bad will really happen to her. You never do, do you? Not until you're alone in the woods, after dark - and a twig snaps... Hollow Pike - where witchcraft never sleeps.

REVIEW

I make no bones about this one, this is going to be a gushy 5 glorious angel loves, so you really really NEED to read this book. James's writing literally swept me away. I started reading the first chapter one evening too tired to concentrate I decided to wait until the following day. This also happened to be the last day of the Christmas holidays. I could not put it down, seriously it is that FREAKIN'AWESOME. So what if the first day back in school was rapidly approaching as I read through the small hours of the night. I could not have asked for a better back-drop either as the rain was lashing against the windows and the wind was howling around the chimney.

The third person narrative keeps tight reign over the plot, a necessary device when the plot is a twisty turny twisty thing. I was hooked. The central character, Lis, is WELSH *cheers* now that for a start gave it a big fat bonus from me. Plus James has the welsh tone depicted perfectly in Sarah, Lis's sister, believe me I know being welsh and all [ ; D ] Lis has left her home in Bangor to live with her older sister due to atrocious bullying. The emotions and behavior depicted as a victim of bullying was poignantly portrayed within the narrative and it was only after reading the book that I found out James specialized in Bullying and Behavior during his time as a teacher. His experience really shines through within the story.

I am not going into too much detail about the plot as YOU HAVE TO  READ IT. I will say that right from the very beginning it is apparent that Lis is very intuitive. This is re-enforced by the mention of past events by her sister.

The atmospheric tension envelopes the senses. Fantastic use of metaphor within the narrative adds to the drama oozing from the pages. James's humour shows through with the Twilight reference and Macbeth has certainly never been used with such fun, easing the white knuckle ride for a moment. Throw a sprinkling of Glee over the top and you have pink glitter coated chills.

All the characters are quite quirky yet portrayed so realistically. I have to say that the quirky touches to the characterisation enriched the overall impact of the plot. I especially adored Danny, through him we are able to see how shallow cliques really are and the dilemma that a lot of teens face - is it easier to join the 'in' crowd with people that you may not necessarily like or be true to yourself and risk being an outsider.

The description of Hollow Pike itself was unnervingly similar to the town I live in; with its bargain shops and disproportionate number of pubs even down to the Italian restaurant. This may just be a very sad reflection of the times that many towns now look like this.

The research that has gone into the witchcraft aspects of this book is unbelievable and very, very impressive adding to the tension and the realism especially with the history of the witch trails woven into the plot.

This book blends important teen issues, teen angst, witchcraft and murder mystery creating a delectable cocktail of a book. Best sipped slowly so you don't miss a single drop.


Huge thank you to Andrew from The Pewter Wolf for winning me a copy of this book *hugs*

Review: Small Blue Thing by SC Ransom

Title: Small Blue Thing

Series: Small Blue Thing
Author: S C Ransom
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Publication Date: 13 Jan 2011

Synopsis: From Amazon

When 17 year-old Alex rescues a swan caught on a wire stuck deep in the Thames mud, she finds an extraordinary bracelet. Through its disturbing and compelling powers, she meets
Callum, a soul locked in a half-life of sadness and mystery following a terrible accident, and his persuasive and sinister sister, Catherine. As Alex and Callum grow closer despite the enormous obstacles to their love, the dangers mount until Alex must risk everything to save her best friend and Callum must risk everything to save Alex.

Review:

If you know me by now you will have realized that as soon as I saw that cover I had to have this book. It was love at first sight. The story just enhanced my love of the cover and you can bet I want a bracelet like that. Isn’t it gorgeous - the description of the setting and the stone within the narrative is utterly mesmerizing. However, you are constantly posing the questions: Where did it come from? How much power does it really have? And what are the consequences? I have to say that the writing style as a whole has a beautiful descriptive quality that captured my imagination and kept me reading into the wee small hours.

All the characters were well rounded and relatable. I was really drawn to Alex, becoming totally invested in her future. I love it when that happens, that a protagonist can get so deeply into your imagination that you feel her emotions as if they were your own. The story lulls us into a false sense of security, building the plot gently layer by layer until before you know it you are on a rollercoaster ride of emotion. For me the story had fairytale quality to it with a modern setting.

I know you are wondering if I am going to start swooning over the male protagonist, Callum, well I won’t disappoint you. OMGosh YES. He is so sweet, caring and let’s not forget HOT [ ; D ] As the truth about his situation as a ‘Dirge’ becomes clear within the narrative you have to admire his strength of spirit and innate charm. The way he only takes mundane memories in order to prevent himself sinking into despair just adds to his appeal. The actual use of the word ‘Dirge’ to describe the existence of these people who have perished in the waters of an offshoot of the Thames (I can’t for the life of me remember the name at the moment – blah this always happens)apparently by their own hands is rather inspired; as a Dirge is the name used for a somber song expressing mourning or grief. Which is how the ‘Dirges’ spend their existence in a perpetual state of mourning/grief. This type of existence and gathering of memories brought to my mind the Harpies from Phillip Pullmans His Dark Materials. On a personal note, I did find it disturbing that the Dirges could be inducing Alzheimer’s by taking memories, as my mother had Alzheimer’s.

You all already know how much I love the idea of soul mates and destiny. The bracelet is like a conduit to bring to soul mates together; to my mind I also think of it as a test to see if they can overcome the obstacles in their path to be together. Plus the danger from the other ‘Dirges’ adds to the thrill of the plot. The relationship between Alex and Callum is sweet and touching, blossoming slowly into passion. Open, honest, direct and utterly refreshing, touching, lovely, I think I need more words.

Alex has a wonderful, supportive family and the depiction of their close relationship was heart-warming. It also emphasized the guilt Alex feels by having to keep Callum a secret. The little alterations in her personality/actions that she has to make in order to ‘be’ with Callum do not go wholly unnoticed. Alex is also lucky enough to have a wonderfully loyal friend in the shape of Grace, I adored her ability to scour charity shops and transform outfits. Grace is always there to provide a shoulder whenever Alex needs it, non-judgmental and steadfast. Alex is lucky to have her.

Now that I have mentioned the ‘good’ characters I have to mention the ‘bad’. Let’s start with Rob – the hot guy crush from school that Alex wanted to date prior to meeting Callum. This guy needs to be hit over the head with a stick. I won’t go into details about their ‘date’ but seriously someone find him and hit him. These characters were so real to me I would have tracked him down myself if I could. The saying don’t judge a book by its cover certainly applies to Rob, hot on the outside and mean on the inside, completely narcissistic and self-centered I was concerned as to what he would do next.

Then we come to Catherine, Callum’s sister and fellow dirge, her hatred and maliciousness appear to be the only things that keep her going. Her personality is such a contrast to Callum’s; you wonder how on earth they are from the same family. There are a lot of unanswered questions surrounding Catherine, I really need to know why she is the way she is, was there a cause or is it her natural disposition. There are still a lot of things to be unearthed about the ‘Dirges’ I NEED to know.

One thing I made a note of to mention about this book is how it captures the British pub culture perfectly. I don’t think any other culture in the world has the same affinity for pubs as the British. The portrayal within the narrative was realistic and completely relatable. The added benefit of the 80’s pop culture reference had me giggling away to myself.

There is a SURPRISE ending (I wasn’t expecting at all) opening up a whole world of possibilities for the direction of the story. I cannot wait to find out what happens next. Plus I think I am going to miss Callum while I am waiting [ ; D ]

I admit to rambling and have been accused of gushing on a number of occasions but feel that good books deserve to be gushed over, this is one of them.

Celebrating Wales: Review: Big Woo (My Not So Secret Teenage Blog) by Susie Day

Title: Big Woo (My Not So Secret Teenage Blog)
Author: Susie Day
Publisher: Marion Lloyd Books
Publication Date: 7 April 2008

Source: Library





Synopsis: From Amazon
Ta-da! My blog of lolarious brilliance has escaped from the internets. Into a book! BIG WOO! Omg behold my interestingness. But don't read it, tiny children. It is full of rudey bits and lameassery. AND SHOUTING IN CAPSLOCK which is bad for you, obvs.

Review:
If you need to learn text speak to understand your teenager nothing does it better than this book, providing an insight into the female teenage mind and all that entails while allowing the reader a good giggle.

Written in first person narrative from Seraphina perspective but in the visually dynamic format of blog posts even incorporating the comments section. Seraphina is coming to terms with the break-up of her parents, low self confidence and body image. She is completely easy to relate to even though it has been quite some time since I was a teen myself.

Sensitive issues are touched upon within the narrative such as eating disorders/divorce/new relationships/teenage sexuality/cyber bullying all impacting today's teenage life. Shown from Seraphina's view point making her sometimes funny, sometimes naive/immature/self-absorbed but all with a sense of uniqueness and inner strength. New boundaries and relationships have to be forged following her pattens split which are sometimes painful to witness,  I found myself cringing at the same time as sympathising. Having been a teenage and now a Mother it is easy to see both sides to the relationship, along with the mistakes made and blame shared.

I loved the ending showing that when the 'chips are down' family really do pull together even if it is only fictional.

A wonderful humourous coming of age/journey of self discovery. If you haven't read it yet - you really should.

Reviewed as part of Celebrating Wales - Susie is completely awesome and from Penarth [ : D ]

Follow Susie on Twitter  @mssusieday

Susie's website - the brilliantly named - Everyday should be a Susie Day

Review: The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney

Title: The Iron Witch
Series: The Ironbridge Chronicles
Author: Karen Mahoney
Publisher: Corgi Children's
Publication Date: 20 Jan 2011

Source: Publisher - Thank you




Synopsis: From Amazon
Freak.
That's what they call seventeen-year-old Donna Underwood at Ironbridge High School. A horrific fey attack that killed her father when she was just a child left Donna branded with iron tattoos that cover her hands and arms - and magically enhanced strength, that she now does all she can to hide.
Now, after ten years of wishing for a normal life, Donna finally accepts her role in the centuries-old war against the darkest outcasts of Faerie - the dark elves. Aided by Xan, a gorgeous half-fey dropout, Donna must save her best friend's life - and that means betraying one of the world's greatest secrets and confronting the very thing that destroyed her family.

Review:
The tension literally crackled off the page from the very first word. The air of mystery combined with intrigue and magic is tantalisingly woven together to provide a page turning plot.

Written in third person narrative but focalized from Donna's perspective; I will admit I didn't actually notice it was third person narrative until after the first chapter. I think this was due to the fact that I found Donna so completely relatable, I actually felt as if I was in the party at the very beginning with Donna. Such powerfully descriptive writing draws you straight into the story, encompassing all the senses.

The chapters are interspersed with first person diary extracts giving insight and understanding to both the plot and characterisation.

Donna is such a wonderful character, steadfast/loyal and a deeply devoted friend even though she has suffered emotionally and physically herself. Her wonderfully strong sense of self was inspiring. Even the brutal high school cliques weren't able to dent her strong core essence although they did cause momentary hurt.
 
All the characters were well rounded and their interactions believable/relatable. I would love some more background details on the two male protagonists. They really compared and contrasted beautifully with each other - no love triangle here (I don't think). Navin, the best (only) friend, supports Donna emotionally and is fiercely protective of her, sticking with her through anything. Xan, the love interest, hot/steamy while retaining an air of charm to sweep a girl off her feet *swoon*. I am concerned that he has an ulterior motive for his relationship with Donna and hope I am proved wrong.

You should know by now that my catch-phrase is 'reading is subjective', with that in mind, I will say that due to my experience of my Mother being in a Nursing Home the description of the Nursing Home within the narrative was so disturbingly real to me that I found it a bit difficult to read. Purely from the emotion it invoked from my own experience. Again this gives Karen Mahoney credit for such descriptive and realistic writing.

The revelations and plot building was richly layered developing throughout the story and beyond, leaving me desperate to find out what happens next. A wonderful mix of mystery, intrigue, suspense, romance and friendship with paranormal elements. The beginning of the book and the end tie together beautifully bringing together the revelations that have been placed throughout the book.

I just can't believe this is a debut novel. I am sure it will be the first of many fantastic books by Karen Mahoney and I for one can't wait for the next installment of The Ironbridge Chronicles.

MG Monday: Review: Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf by Curtis Jobling

Title: WereWorld: Rise of the Wolf
Series: WereWorld
Author: Curtis Jobling
Publisher: Puffin
Publication Date: 6 Jan 2011

Source: Publisher - Thank you




Synopsis: From Amazon
‘YOU’RE THE LAST OF THE WEREWOLVES SON. DON’T FIGHT IT . . . CONQUER IT.’ When the air is clear, sixteen year-old Drew Ferran can pick up the scent of a predator. When the moon breaks through the clouds, a terrifying fever grips him. And when a vicious beast invades his home, his gums begin to tear, his fingers become claws, and Drew transforms . . . Forced to flee the family he loves, Drew seeks refuge in the most godforsaken parts of Lyssia. But when he is captured by Lord Bergan’s men, Drew must prove he is not the enemy. Can Drew battle the werecreatures determined to destroy him – and master the animal within?

Review:
The first thing that caught my attention with this book was unbelievably the index. The story is set out in different sections which had my imagination questioning the reasoning for this before I even started reading - Would there be mini-stories?  Would it be different points in time? Would it be different characters focalization? Remember this is all before I even started reading the book - the power of the index [ : D ]

Another thing I have to mention about the book before I started reading it, is the beautiful illustrations throughout that are not only eye-catching, detailed and generally gorgeous but really added another dimension to the the story. The chapter heading were visually arresting drawing you into the story even before the words had a chance to.

Written in third person narrative but focalized from Drew's perspective. The use of the third person narrator allows plot hints to be placed surreptitiously into the narrative, different story threads to be created while not distracting from the main theme. The writing is wonderfully descriptive making it easy to imagine the world of Lyssia, for me Curtis Jobling has created an entire mythical world on a par to Middle Earth (well to be completely truthful I found Lyssia actually easier to picture than Middle Earth).

A number of different genres seem to be molded together to create the overall story, the use of fantasy/horror and Gothic imagery provide a powerful and compelling storyline. The imagery is very realistic and relatable. Unfortunately (for me) this also involved a giant serpent - the stuff of my nightmares - thank you so much Curtis *sarcasm*.

The tension builds quickly and doesn't let up for a moment, I was kept flipping the pages with a voracious appetite to know what was going to happen next. After the first few chapters I really felt as if I had bonded with Drew. Such a wonderful character to create within the imagination. You feel for his plight dealing with his unique 'illness'. I practically felt his pain via the vivid description of his transformation and subsequent emotional consequences. The whole ideal that it is what is on the inside that counts really seemed apt applied to Drew. He is charismatic, caring, kind, loyal; what you would class as an all round 'nice guy' even if he is a werewolf. I did keep comparing Drew to Robin Hood, obviously not with the robbery but with the aiding of the oppressed against a tyrannical ruler. Drew's strength of character is amazing and only gets enhanced with the trials and tribulations he has to face. Elements of nature versus nurture enter the story with regards especially to Drew's 'siblings' [ ; D ] Bringing to mind Kane and Abel - brother against brother in the pursuit of power.

All the characters are well-rounded and individually interesting not only for the way in which they interact with Drew. It made me want to know more about their individual stories/history. I wonder if we will in future books????

I have to mention that the inclusion of silver in its traditional context against werecreatures had been given a whole new element in this story.

Without giving away any spoilers I will say the ending was wonderful, maybe I should say new beginning rather than the ending. All the plot threads were artfully woven together providing an engaging conclusion. I am already imagining the movies/video games/action figures/werworld conventions.

I just have to mention that I took the book into the library to read during a free lesson, 3 of the pupils that spotted the book on my desk have already requested to have it reserved for them when it goes onto the computer system, based solely on the cover and the synopsis [ : D ]

Don't forget to check back tomorrow for Trailer Tuesday featuring the WereWorld Trailer and also this weeks Saturday Spotlight a guest post by Curtis Jobling on reading inspirations.

Saturday Spotlight: British Books Challenge 2011

Alongside the Debut Author Challenge I am going to be attempting the British Books Challenge 2011 hosted by The Bookette.

Such a lovely idea to promote 'home grown' talent. Some of the books I wish to read for the Debut Author Challenge actually count towards this challenge too *Yay 2 birds 1 stone* [ ; D ]

Here are a few of the books I would like to read:

1. Entangled by Cat Clarke
2. WereWorld: Rise of the Wolf by Curtis Jobling
3. Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney
4. Small Blue Thing by S C Ransom
5. Almost True by Keren David
6. Swapped by a Kiss by Luisa Plaja
7. White Crow by Marcus Sedgwick
8. Jessie Loves NYC by Keris Stainton
9. Mortal Coil by Derek Landy (I have had this on my TBR shelf for months - I love Skulduggery Pleasant and this is the push I need to read it
10. The Necromancer by Micheal Scott (same with this one - this is the push I need)
11. The Demons Surrender by Sarah Rees Brennan

I also found a great resource for finding UK Authors:

UK Children's Books