Secrets and Lies by Christine Amsden

By: Unknown on Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Title:  Secrets and Lies

Author:  Christine Amsden

Series:  Cassie Scott #2

Published:  Nov 15/13

Page Count:  260

Genre:  YA Paranormal suspense

Shelf:  review copy

Rating:  ★★★★★

Book Blurb:

Cassie Scot, still stinging from her parents’ betrayal, wants out of the magical world. But it isn’t letting her go. Her family is falling apart and despite everything, it looks like she may be the only one who can save them.

To complicate matters, Cassie owes Evan her life, making it difficult for her to deny him anything he really wants. And he wants her. Sparks fly when they team up to find two girls missing from summer camp, but long-buried secrets may ruin their hopes for happiness. Book 2 in the Cassie Scot Mystery series.

My Review:

This story is naturally and fluidly written in a manner that draws you in. It follows in the same tone and style as the first novel in the series, adding a sense of continuity to the saga. That said, I’d highly suggest reading the first novel first. Her explicitly visual descriptions bring everything to light in a very vivid way. Amsden does a great job of introducing new and unique concepts as part of the story’s action rather than as a separate narrative. She keeps you guessing and on your toes throughout with her imaginatively suspenseful storyline. By mixing relationship drama with a murder investigation and a few other twists en route Amsden creates a masterpiece that you won’t be able to put down.

Amidst the magic and wonderment of this tale is the story of a young girl trying to succeed on her own terms, to be who she wants to be. Amsden has taken a brilliantly unique and captivating route to bring this story forward. It’s a heart-warming tale, even if it does have some heartbreaking moments and a heart shattering ending. That said, hope still shines through. By melding various prophecies together you can hold on to this hope – not only for a happy ending but for the sequel itself.

Overall, this was an entertaining tale that is fun for all ages. It’s a brilliant story (and series) that will stand the test of time. I, for one, can’t wait for more from this brilliant author.

Add to your Goodreads or Shelfari Shelves.

Buy online via Amazon.

About the author:

Christine Amsden has been writing science fiction and fantasy for as long as she can remember. She loves to write and it is her dream that others will be inspired by this love and by her stories. Speculative fiction is fun, magical, and imaginative but great speculative fiction is about real people defining themselves through extraordinary situations. Christine writes primarily about people and it is in this way that she strives to make science fiction and fantasy meaningful for everyone.

At the age of 16, Christine was diagnosed with Stargardt’s Disease, a condition that effects the retina and causes a loss of central vision. She is now legally blind, but has not let this slow her down or get in the way of her dreams.

In addition to writing, Christine teaches workshops on writing at Savvy Authors. She also does some freelance editing work.

Christine currently lives in the Kansas City area with her husband, Austin, who has been her biggest fan and the key to her success. They have two beautiful children.

Online links:

Website http://christineamsden.com/wordpress/
Blog http://christineamsden.com/wordpress/?page_id=200
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christine-Amsden-Author-Page/127673027288664
Goodreads ttp://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1030664.Christine_Amsden
Google+ https://plus.google.com/u/0/117845642477854934607/posts