Genre: Paranormal YA, YA Romance
Published by: Square Fish on February 15, 2011
Format: Paperback
Pages: 223
Source: Publisher
Amazon • Barnes & Noble •
There's hidden places all over this land-old, old places. Places with a chain for them to chain up the wolf when it's time.
A bone-chilling tale of werewolves and love, set in medieval Scotland.
A mysterious young man has come to a small Highland town. His talent for wood carving soon wins the admiration of the weaver's daughter, Maddie. Fascinated by the silent carver, she sets out to gain his trust, only to find herself drawn into a terrifying secret that threatens everything she loves.
There is an evil presence in the carver's life that cannot be controlled, and Maddie watches her town fall under a shadow. One by one, people begin to die. Caught in the middle, Maddie must decide what matters most to her-and what price she is willing to pay to keep it.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Not your usual young adult paranormal romance!
Set in the Highlands of Medieval Scottland, Maddie is the young daughter of weaver in a small village. She lives a quiet but happy life in her tight knit community and hopes to one day get married and start a family of her own. While out in the town one day, Maddie encounters a good looking young man who happens to be a very talented carver. Although their encounter is brief, Maddie finds the young man fascinating and can’t wait to learn more about him.
Soon after, the young carver is brutally attacked by a savage beast that leaves him on the verge of death and the superstitious villagers terrorized. He’s taken in by Maddie’s family and while nursing him back to health Maddie gains the young man’s trust and affection. It is here he reveals he can speak, his name is Paul and he has a dark and terrible secret he confides in Maddie. Realizing she has developed feelings for Paul, Maddie is torn between following her heart or protecting her people.
This story is unlike anything I’ve read in young adult paranormal romance. The author creates such a vivid and spooky tale you’ll feel like you’re sharing scary stories at a campfire! The setting of Medieval Scotland is perfect for the supernatural aspect of the story, this was a time where people where highly superstitious so their reactions to the events is very believable. The characters lack a little development but the storytelling is superb, you’ll see the story unfold right before your eyes as if you were there. Despite being such a young heroine, Maddie is very determined and wise. Her innocence in matters of the heart is also very endearing. Paul is a great mystery for most of the book but I love his resilience in dealing with his secret and how he is willing to protect Maddie at all costs. Their relationship is very sweet and touching.
This is a great read for anyone who wants to try something new in the werewolf genre. Filled with suspense, a little romance and a unique plot, By These Ten Bones reads more like an old folk tale with a surrounding theme that never goes out of style, love. I will surely be reading more of this author’s work.
My thanks to Barbara @ Blue Slip Media for sending me a review copy!
I’ve been wondering about this one… I wanted it… KIND of, but not enough to GO OUT of my way to find it!