I first picked this book up because it was about a mass shooting. This is not a subject I know a lot about expect that it seems to happen quite a bit in America, so I find it an interesting topic, horrible but interesting. In the Skin of a Monster had an extra element - the shooter was one half of an identical twin, and her sister is still alive. Now that alone intrigued me, this poor girl, having to deal with all the emotions and fall out from the shooting, while looking like the shooter? I'm pretty sure it couldn't get worse.

Well what can I say, this book was nothing like I expected. For one it has a paranormal element which was totally left field. When the paranormal element made an appearance I admit to being rather disappointed, I thought there was enough interesting things going on already without the need to make something supernatural, plus I had my heart set on realistic fiction. Well let me say I'm so glad this was different! Barker did a superb job of creating the world, characters with a perfect blend of complicated emotions, horror and anticipation. I devoured this book, and couldn't make myself put it down once I got started! Watching Alice (MC) struggle to carry all the guilt and shame that should have never been her to begin with, her twisted belief she deserved all her sisters punishment, and seeing how everything unfolded was just incredible. These brave, responsible kids made this book, I loved every moment. If I could rate above 5 stars I would! I kind of wished it never ended.

IMO I can see how some people may be disappointed with this ending, personally I thought it was rather brilliant, if a little sad. Much more realistic than the usual cliched endings, even if for once I was cheering for things to be different.

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Magic New Mexico ~ SE Smith

Magic New Mexico Kindle World ~ SE Smith

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Idrián Odair is a disabled veteran and the last dreamwalk warrior of his tribe and in order to protect his ancestral lands, he needs to find his partner before time runs out in this exciting paranormal romance.

Riya Sanobal hides her heritage and magical talent for doors in favor of her dance career but dreams of a sexy, Native American warrior is causing quite the distraction and readers can’t help but become enthralled by these strong compelling characters as they try to learn to trust each other before Denver becomes an all-you-can-eat buffet for a ravenous demon horde. There is lots of sizzling chemistry and romance but the relationship is not only under a bit of pressure, both Riya and Idrián have some emotional issues that stem from past relationships to overcome which the readers can certainly relate to and there is never a dull moment to be found as time becomes the enemy and demons target Riya for her abilities which sets a spectacular magical battle in motion. This plot is well written, fast paced and flows smoothly with suspense, excitement and romance that draws readers in and refuses to let go.

This is one fascinating world with some very interesting and unique creatures and elements that adds to the spice and appeal of the story and I found my visit to Magic, New Mexico to be quite an exhilarating experience, so I will definitely have to visit Magic again.

DREAM WORLD, BOOK 1 - S.J. HITCHCOCK

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

This is a coming of age YA story that I really enjoyed.

Debbie is a wonderful character. She is a thirteen year old girl, who witnesses a terrible accident. Trying to cope with her grief, she slips into daydreams. I really liked this character and felt for her as she struggled to cope with the loss of her mother. She is pretty level headed, but just like all teenage girls, she fantasizes about Joshua Lawson, the star of a TV programme.

Karen is a character that I, at first, took a dislike to. She is snobbish and is a bit of a bully. However, as I read more about her home life, I began to understand why she acts the way she does. Her mother has some serious issues! I have warmed up to Karen's character somewhat, but still feel that she needs a wake up call to show her that she doesn't have to act that way.

Mark is an interesting character. He is an American, who goes to live with his grandparents in the UK whilst his parents (who are in a band) are on tour. I really liked this young man! He is charming and courteous, but has always felt like he was living in the shadow of his famous cousin. Being in England gives him a chance to stretch his own wings.

This book had me on a rollercoaster of emotions! I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading this book, but it was a shocking, heartwarming and unexpectedly charming read! The story is told from all three characters points of view, and gives the reader an insight into their lives. I must admit that I did find the teenage angst a bit teeth grinding at times, but looking back on my own teenage years, I can understand that molehills look like mountains to the youth. However, what got my goat was Karen's story. I cannot understand for the life of me how a family can be so shallow and callous to one of their own. Granted, I feel blessed to have a close knit and loving family, but the way they treated her really got my back up! Perhaps as the story unfolds in the next book, things will become clearer. I am looking forward to reading the next book to find out what happens next!
As this book is set in England, the author uses British words that are spelt differently to US English.

S.J. Hitchcock has written an intriguing tale that, although not as fast paced as I would have liked, kept me reading from the first page to the last.

I recommend this book to young readers in the 12 to 15 age range, and to adults who love to read younger YA books. - Lynn Worton