Alyzon is nothing like the other members of her multi-talented family. She sees herself as a ‘chook in a house of peacocks’. After she is hit on the head by a car boot, she wakes from her coma to realise life is changed forever. She has acquired specific gifts that none of her family have. Her senses are greatly magnified, particularly her sense of smell. This enables her to differentiate between good and evil people due to the odour they emit.
Serious evil has entered her world through her sister Serenity who now wants to be Sybil. Who is brainwashing her, and why has the ultra-rich Aaron Rayc chosen to befriend her obscure musician father? Most of all, why has Harlan, the most attractive boy she’s ever seen, chosen her to pursue? She must learn how to control her heightened senses, and use them to try to uncover the origins of the insidious darkness that threatens everyone she loves.
This is a book full of enigmas and thought-provoking issues. It could have been written for today’s society and their unpredictable habits and lifestyles. It brings to life emotions and thoughts we humans hide, both good and evil, that no-one ever suspects. It questions what is true and what pretence.
I loved this book and all that it revealed to me. Its characters are spectacular. Each is unique and exquisite whether darkened by evil, or glowing with light, love and goodness. The multi-layered storyline pulses with tension from start to finish. If you haven’t read this book, do so. It has every element that one looks for in a quality read and more. I highly recommended it.
Title: Alyzon Whitestarr
Author: Isobelle Carmody
Publisher: Ford St Publishing, $24.95 RRP
Publication Date: April 2016
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781925272185
For ages: 12+
Type: Young Adult
