Book Review: Fractured Light

Media Type: Ebook
Title: Fractured Light
Author: Rachel McClellan
Publisher: Sweetwater Books
Pages: Hardcover; 312
Release Date: February 8, 2012
Source: Publisher / Teen Book Scene
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Intended Reading Group: Young Adult
Content Screening: Mild Violence
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HDB Rating: 4 Keys to My Heart
Recommended to: Readers looking for something paranormal, even though this looks like a Fantasy book.

Add it on: Goodreads / Shelfari / Amazon / B&N

Llona Reese is used to living on the run. After the Vykens killed her parents, she knew they would eventually come for her too. But she never felt ready to face them—until now. Defying the Auran Council and everything she’s been taught, Llona must learn to use her power over light as a weapon if she wants to survive.

Going into Fractured Light, I really expected to be reading fantasy. I’m not sure if that was my own fault, or the synopsis, but the Aurans peaked my interest. I looked at this as something new and different in the fantasy realm. On the bright side, it was indeed something new. On the down side, this reads much more like a paranormal romance novel than anything else. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. I’m just warning those of you who might be mistaken like I was. I’ll save you the wondering.

At the beginning I’ll admit that Fractured Light was a little tough for me to get into. Llona starts out as a tough character to enjoy. She’s distant, coarse, and at times whiny. I understood why. Rachael McClellan builds up a good back story for her protagonist, and it’s easy to see why Llona chooses to keep to herself. It doesn’t make it any easier to like though. Add in the fact that the first few chapters felt shaky and kind of off, and I almost put this book down.

I’m happy to say I didn’t though, because things really do improve about a third of the way through. Llona’s attitude changes, the book picks up pace, and we meet more of the characters who are going to be a part of Llona’s journey. At this point I honestly felt like I was reading a whole different book. Whereas the first few chapters were shaky and oddly paced at times, at this point in the book things really evened out. I found myself fully immersed for the first time, and I fell in love with Llona and her struggle to just exist.

Although some parts of the plot felt a little forced into place, I ultimately ended up liking Fractured Light. The climax of the book is just perfect, and the ending is wonderfully done. It leaves the book open for a next in the series and, in all honesty, now that I’ve read the whole book I’m ready for the next one. If you are a reader who enjoys a good mystery, this is a book that will peak your interest. I’ll be waiting for more!

FTC Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion.