Book Review: SHADOWLANDS by Kate Brian

Shadowlands
by Kate Brian
Series: Shadowlands #1
Genre: Young Adult, Mystery, Thriller
Format Acquired: Kindle Edition
Published January 8th 2013 by Disney Hyperion

Rory Miller had one chance to fight back and she took it. Rory survived… and the serial killer who attacked her escaped. Now she must enter the witness protection program. At first it seems like her family’s new home may be just the fresh start they need. But just as they’re starting to feel safe again, one of Rory’s new friends goes missing. Is it a coincidence? Or is the nightmare beginning all over again?

MY REVIEW

That cover.

I haven't read other books by Kate Brian since it didn't caught my interest at all. But when I requested Hereafter (Shadowlands #2) on NetGalley and got approved, I knew I had to read Shadowlands. When I read the synopsis of this book, I thought this will just be like those typical mystery books with serial killer I have read. But when I finished reading, my expectations were exceeded.

The beginning of the story made me want to read it more. I like thrillers, though I haven't read much of them. And this. THIS. What happened to Rory is traumatic. Imagine your teacher, the one you trust and consider as second parent when you're in school, is the one who has evil plans on you. Steven Nell is a smart character, considering he's been haunted down by the FBI for a decade and not even once did he allow them to catch him. And take note, he's killed 14 girls already in 10 different states. He's a psychopath. This is why Rory's family was put into a Witness Protection Program. While on their way, Steven Nell proved once again how smart he is. How brilliant he is.

"So no. It was not a physical thing at all. It was internal. Every girl he'd ever chosen was broken. . ." 

Then something happened.

Rory's family somehow ended up in an island far from where they came from. They started a new life, new names, new story. But what's strange is that there is no internet connection or reception in the island. Even newspapers or TV news. However, everyone on the island seems nice. They are friendly and approachable. It's just that Rory is still scared for her life and her family, and there are times wherein she's over reacting (I understand her, though). But strange things happen on the island and Rory was so confused, plus this new guy named Tristan has an eye for Rory, which made her more curious about what's happening around her. She needs answers from the people who can't tell her what's going on.

"I need you to say it, Tristan." I said, my voice cracking. "Just tell me. Just say it out loud. Is this what I think I am? Am I...?"

The ending. I was like "What?!". The ending surprised me. Shocked me. That revelation in the ending is a big WOW. Rory's questions were answered in the ending of the story, but made new questions, which will make you want to read the next book ASAP.

This is definitely a good read. I'm curious about the things happening, about the people on the island, about the real story behind the island of Juniper Landing.

MY RATING

I REALLY LIKED IT!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kate Brian

Kate Brian is the prolific author of many books for teens including the Private series, the new Privilege series, and Sweet 16. She lives with her husband in New Jersey. She writes under the pseudonym Kate Brian, instead of using her real name: Kieran Scott.

Author Links:
Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

"That's what she's gone to do. She's fine. In fact, she's better than fine. She's... moving forward."