Into the Dim

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - Long Creek Detention Center, South Portland, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: August 8, 2016

Review

When a time-travel adventure meets a romantic historical novel it has to be a good interaction. As a new author Taylor has delivered an opening punch well worth her entrance into satisfying YA literature. Hope has been sheltered and home schooled by her academic mother, until Mom disappears in an earthquake. Fast forward to Hope's trip to meet relatives in Scotland where she discovers a room of historical costumes and learns the family secret. This background lays a base for an action packed adventure that is well written and full of details about the 12th Century. Taylor provides historic facts, names, and dates that support the action making the reader open to time travel. Although far fetched, the storyline is believable and the characters genuine. Hope's relationship with her cousins and romantic interest are well developed and fresh. At the risk of being a spoiler it is necessary to add that Hope leaves phobias behind as she evolves into a brave, confident young woman.

Add this to middle school and public libraries. Readers will be clamoring for the sequel in spring 2017.

Overall Book Score: very good