Mis-fit, Misplaced, Miss Shelly Clover Paperback – July 19, 2014

I loved this book from start to finish! It kept me guessing all the way through. This author has an amazing talent. I can't wait to read more of his books.

A real page turner that kept me guessing right until the end. The story of Shelly Clover is not a simple one; she is a tragic hero who has had so much misery in her life, and yet still manages to stay positive in the face of all the challenges that she has to face.What I really like about this book is that there are two stories that run through the book. The first is all about Shelly's everyday life, and the problems that she has to face with her disfunctional family and her school. The second, and mystical story, revolves around the book that she receives on her birthday. Gradually the two stories become intertwined as Shelly is forced to face her fears to confront dangers and save those she loves.This is a stunning debut from James Steven Clark, and I eagerly await the next installement in the adventures of Shelly Clover. To all those who are unsure about reading the works of a new author, try something new. You won't regret it.

The world of Shelly Clover is not a happy one. Letting her down are the institutions which are there to help: family, school, police and the Church. She lives on a beautiful island, though this story looks into some of the dark secrets it holds.The story starts just before Shelly's thirteenth birthday and we are soon drawn into the story as she receives a strange gift, though we do not know who from. The author takes us on a clever journey where we have to view things from a different angle, and realise power does not always lie in the physical. There are also plenty of twists to keep the story moving at a brisk speed.The book is aimed at teenagers and above. The interesting story and creative use of words makes this a 5 star read.