Review: A "Jewel" of a Book... Engaging and Sweet
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 7, 2012
Rating: 4.5 starsJewel has been running all her life, but she's always had her family. Or so she thinks. Now known as True, since every location requires a name change, Jewel faces her seventeenth birthday in a new town with no friends. Then she meets Chase and Roman. She's drawn to both boys, but Roman is different. Soon she finds out, so is she.The story takes the reader through a maze of self-discovery with scenes full of emotion, confusion, action, peril, and romance. Jewel is drawn to Roman, who declares himself her guardian, but she's had so many people lie to her that it's hard to trust anyone fully. Her true destiny unfolds before her in a race against time that takes her from home to Russia and Italy.What I found most endearing about this story... the strong teenage voice of Jewel. In between running for her life, she complains about the color pink or debates her boyfriend choices. She's fiercely devoted to the idea of family, but she still gets annoyed when they tell her she can't go to a party. Jewel is a character that will stick with me. I don't know if Shannon Duffy intends on making this a series, but I sure hope so. I'm not ready to be done with Jewel yet. Or Roman. My only complaints: some of the story elements seemed rushed, and I wanted more of Roman and Jewel.I highly recommend Spectral to readers who enjoy a well crafted coming of age story with interesting and engaging characters. The paranormal aspect adds to the story, but Jewel could be any teenager struggling with finding herself while surrounded by adults who think they know best. But, not to fear, the witchcraft elements are captivating and unlike any I've read to date.I often struggle to find books for my daughter, an advanced 12-year-old reader. Books classified young adult can be inappropriate for young teens. Spectral, however, is a book I would pass on to her. The romance is sweet and, in my opinion, acceptable for younger young adult readers. While there's plenty of action, none of it seemed over the top or too scary.Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.