Review: Fun Story
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 10, 2013
**3.5 Stars**Bryn McCaskey is a new high school graduate. She's also a Keeper Witch. As such, she has certain abilities and responsibilities. She's always been able to see and talk to ghosts. But now that she's 18, she gains the true responsibilities of a Keeper Witch. That of keeping watch over lost souls, those who are in danger of demon attacks, before they finally cross over. One of her charges proves to be quite a challenge.Johnny Shaw is a newly deceased young man whose spirit hasn't yet moved on. He doesn't understand why but it seems fortuitous as he's the sole protector is his family's secret...one that protects mankind from evil. He isn't at all pleased that Bryn has shown up. He doesn't care what she thinks her duties toward him are. All he needs to know is she's a witch and therefore, he wants nothing to do with her.I enjoyed watching these two characters butt heads as they figure out how to work together. Bryn is very determined to fulfill her duties where Johnny is concerned. Johnny is determined to maintain his life-long hatred of witches no matter how good they may seem or how cute he thinks this one in particular is. But to prevent his family secret from falling into the wrong hands, Johnny needs to figure out a way to let go of his hatred.Bryn doesn't have a lot of confidence. She's more sure of herself when it comes to her 'special' abilities, but socially, she has almost no self confidence. Bryn also has endured a great deal of bullying due to her 'differences'. (Kids aren't so accepting of someone who talks to things no one else can see.) So watching as Johnny breaks through Bryn's defenses and helps to build her self-esteem is satisfying. As is watching Bryn destroy the preconceived notions and prejudices Johnny has cultivated his entire life. It was heartwarming to see how forgiving Bryn is of everyone, even coming to the aid of people who tormented her during her childhood. This went a long way in swaying Johnny's opinion of her.The supporting cast of characters is well fleshed out, especially Marianne. She's a ghost of a girl who was one of the worst bullies Bryn met. As she spends time with Bryn before moving on, she learns what a true friend is. I also like that she seems to be offering a lesson on bullying and making better choices, particularly when it comes to choices in friends.Keeper of the Lost Souls is a unique story, especially as it incorporates elements of Chinese folklore. The writing is simplistic - definitely Young Adult. But I really like the story and the lessons it teaches. It is a pleasant read and I definitely recommend it for YA Paranormal fans.