FELL

My two reading goals for the summer:

-Read more mysteries.
-Read as many books by fabulous teen fiction pioneer M.E. Kerr as I possibly can. *

The book Fell** (which is the first in a series) seemed to fit in both categories, so I picked it up. Holy crab apple! I had no idea! It was so good! I can't wait to read more! Stop this train! Goodness gracious! I'm ready for bed! Give me more!

The first book in the Fell series introduces you to the character of John Fell, and you settle in for one of M.E. Kerr's amazing stories about level-headed characters dealing with chaotic relationships. He's given a sketchy offer by a wealthy neighbor that he can't refuse. He's involved in a love triangle, and starts a new school with intense new rules. I was enjoying myself so much I didn't realize until about 2/3 of the way through the book that there was no real mystery involved. I thought this was a mystery. Where is the mystery?

Then BAM, all at once you're in the mystery! The mystery has been around the whole time! You just couldn't see it. I don't want to give too much away, but Fell is an incredibly smart young man and even he didn't see it coming. The book ends on a second-layer surprise mystery that sets you up for the second book, which I am rushing to read.

It's short, has incredibly complex and likable characters, and had me saying "OH NO!" out loud at the beach. Summer mystery WIN.

*Ask me more about her! ASK ME!
**Why did I include a picture of books covered in paper instead of the actual book? Because the cover is SO INTENSELY UGLY. I was written long ago, but that's not even an excuse. I couldn't even find a picture of it online, apparently its ridiculousness can't be photographed. This story is worth carrying around an ugly book, though. Trust.