Review: Paranormal debut balanced with coming of age story
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 09 18, 2011
While YA paranormal titles are dominated by werewolves, vampires, angels and witches, in Shift the protagonist, Leah has inherited the ability to change her physical appearance at whim. It's a fresh idea that offers something different in the genre.The detailed blurb summarises the storyline well. It's a well conceived plot and a solid introduction to the series, establishing the main characters and the rules of their world.The story is told from the point of view of seventeen year old Leah and most of the conflict in the story is emotional as Leah learns to accept her genetic heritage as a shape-shifter. Slower to accept her new circumstances than I would have liked, initially I was concerned that Leah's anxiety and confusion after discovering her ability would define her character. Thankfully the author fairly swiftly moved Leah past her denial and allowed her to explore her new skills. Leah naturally has to make some big adjustments as a shape-shifter and I liked how the author explored both the emotional and social implications Leah was confronted with. Leah finds herself thinking with an Us vs Them mentality which she has to try and reconcile with her desire for nothing to change. The new aspect of her identity also changes her relationship with her best friend which Leah struggles with even as she makes new friends in fellow shape-shifters Ferris and Drake.The romance that develops between Leah and Drake has a touch of soul mate magic but it works within the context of the story. It's quite sweet really however the relationship is a mature one, and while handled well by the author, it may not be appropriate for younger teens.The story really only hints at the threat of rogue shape-shifters. There is if not exactly a cliffhanger, then a somewhat abrupt, conclusion to Shift and I expect that particular arc will be more fully explored in the sequel.Shift is an entertaining paranormal series debut balanced with a coming of age story that older teens can identify with. Well written and original I was frankly surprised at how engaging I found it. If you enjoy young adult novels with a paranormal twist then Shift may be just what you are looking for.