Review: Felt like I was there!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 12 8, 2012
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Dawn*Beware of Spoilers*Synopsis:The Wall has long kept Elitland Valley safe from the demons on the other side. For centuries the villagers have avoided speaking of the Wall or the creatures it protects them from.Upon their return from the annual Country Fayre, the older Atego brothers learn of their father's passing. When fifteen year old Silas Atego learns the mysterious illness that took his father might have been a curse from a demon, his need for answers draws him to the one place he must not go.  The far side of the Wall.When Silas is still missing days later, his older brother Raphael sets out on his own to bring him home.  On his journey, Raphael learns how it was his ancestor who was cursed by a demon creature from the Lake and had the Wall built to keep them out. More desperate than ever to find his brother, his search draws Raphael to the same terrifying barrier.Along the brothers' individual travels they face their greatest fears, make lifelong friends, and more importantly, learn the truth of what happened centuries ago.Review:The story begins with Merrin (a princess) and Adrian. They are an unlikely pairing. Adrian betrays Merrin and he pays with his life. At that time, in her rage, Merrin cursed his family.Centuries later we meet Silas and Raphael (Adrian was their ancestor.). Their family struggles and the boys do the best they can to help.During the centuries Merrin has nurtured her hatred and rage at Adrian. She wallows in Adrian's betrayal, feeding the notions of vengeance. She is proud of what she did to Adrian but it will make her a weaker Queen if she cannot move past it.Shortly before the ceremony for Merrin to become Queen something happens and she cannot get back home. Raphael happens upon her while searching for his brother Silas. Raphael stays with Merrin until she can return. His gesture surprises Merrin.She is forced to get to know him and finally she connects with his humanity. He confronts her about the curse on his family.Merrin's character development is beautiful. She goes from a very shallow vindictive woman to a compassionate well-rounded woman. It will make her a wonderful Queen. I enjoyed experiencing her growth as she learned some hard lessons.The story and plot are unique. There are layers and plot twists galore making it an enjoyable read.Merrin's world was described beautifully; very visual. I am not a visual person, but Merrin's world was described so thoroughly that I felt I was there.I didn't connect with the book as much as I thought I would. I think the first 100 pages put me off a bit. There was a great deal of mundane daily life details. Despite that, it's a good book and worth reading.I recommend Blingsighted Wanderer to YA, men and women. E.C. Hibbs shows great potential, and I'm excited to read more!This review and more at openbooksociety dot com