Book Review: Stolen

Reviewed By: Luke Croll - RAM

Stolen     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon UK PB Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Kelley Armstrong
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Fantasy   Horror   Vampire   Werewolves
Series: Women of the Otherworld # 2
Time Warner, 2003, 532 pages

Ten years ago, Elena Michaels’ lover turned her into the only female werewolf in the world. A group of scientists have just learnt of her existence and they want to track her down to study her. However, they have not reckoned on the determination of Elena, her adoptive family and her allies.

‘Stolen’ is an interesting novel in that it fits into the new genre of modern, trendy and humorous novels that poke fun at themselves or the genre. Here, Armstrong introduces various beings, from werewolves to vampires, and sorcerers to telekinetic demons. She tries to give them all independent personalities and behaviour and the reader will soon find himself rooting for Elena, as she struggles against the scientists.

When choosing characters with supernatural powers, authors can set themselves easy, or difficult, tasks. For instance, some vampires cannot go out in direct sunlight. However, Armstrong alters the traditional legends in various ways and melds them to fit her story, making an exciting and fast-paced tale. Towards the end, the novel seems to drag slightly, but Armstrong skilfully builds up to her sequel, ‘Dime Store Magic’.

Whilst this was the first time I had read a novel by Armstrong, I would be happy to read another in this funny, punchy and exciting series. Well-crafted characters, with a lot of potential for development, mean that Armstrong should have a success on her hands.

Luke Croll - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Luke Croll - RAM

Luke Croll - Conference interpreter and translator
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