Forbidden

Reviewed by: Kris Zuidema - retired elementary librarian, Standish, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 10, 2016

Review

This story takes place in the early 19th century. Josie, a sixteen year old orphan from Edinburgh, Scotland, is sent to live with her father's brother and wife in a village by the sea. She is not accustomed to their way of life which she finds unfriendly and coarse. Only Eli, a mysterious and brooding young man, and his grandmother are kind and helpful. The more Josie unravels the mysteries surrounding her, the more desperate and determined she is to leave, although her relatives need her to stay. This well written novel is told from Josie's point of view. Some of the events involving the shipwrecks are based on historical fact. The addition of the supernatural enhances the story. The story moves quickly and escalates with the dangerous and cruel reality that Josie uncovers about her caretakers and townspeople. The characters are well developed and complex. Young readers will be drawn into the relationship of Josie and Eli. I recommend this for readers who enjoy a combination of history, mystery, and the supernatural.

Overall Book Score: very good