-->
young adult book reviews & more

Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus

Shadow HillsEver since her sister’s strange death, Phe Archer has suffered from a series of disturbing nightmares. Phe isn’t sure how these terrifying dreams are related to her sister or herself, but she’s determined to find out. With few clues to aid her, Phe decides to enroll in Devenish Prep in Shadow Hills, Massachusetts—the subject of her sister’s last diary entry. Upon arrival, Phe senses that there’s something really strange about the town, and it’s only partly the creepy hidden cemetery and the strange things all the “townies” can do. There is something deeply wrong with the town of Shadow Hills, and Phe is determined to find out what, even if it means risking her own life.

Shadow Hills is an enthralling story sure to please all fans of the paranormal. It is very heavily hinted from the beginning of the book that there is something supernatural is at work, and thus, it’s not very surprising to anyone but protagonist Phe when it does. In this constantly growing genre, it is difficult for any novel to be truly original, but I’d say that Hopcus manages to come remarkably close. I think this is because while the mysteries of Shadow Hills are rooted in science, Phe’s own strange powers are more mystical. It’s always a little strange to see science and the supernatural combined, but it works surprisingly well in Shadow Hills. This, in turn, contributes to a thrilling and action packed story sure to engage most readers.

Shadow Hills will be enjoyed by fans of Sisters of Misery by Megan Kelley , Firespell by Chloe Neill, The Dark Divine by Bree Despain, and Guardian of the Dead by Karen Healey.

Rating: 4.25

Review copy from publisher EgmontUSA

3 munch(es) :

Raíla said...

Every time I read a review of SH it sounds more and more exciting to me. I just can't wait to read it. Thanks! :)

Nat said...

I've heard so many great things about this book. I'm really looking forward to it! Thank you for the great review.

Anonymous said...

I wanted to like this book but I couldn't. There were too many plot holes. For example, she hung out with the school office worker in the beginning of the book and it seemed like he would be introduced to the story for a reason. Not. The asian girl Toy... why did we need to know about her? She didn't offer anything to the story. Even Zack, the love interest, what do you know about him? Nothing. He has nice eyes and that's it. All the characters in this book were cardboard cutouts. The plot was very flimsy.... and again many plot holes. I think the author is sweet and I'm glad people seem to like this book but WOW was it *NOT* for me.

Post a Comment

Let the munching begin.