Kate Cann

Quick & Dirty: A vividly written novel that lends a genuinely creepy feel, and is sure to keep you away from the countryside.

Opening Sentence: Rayne sat on the end of her narrow bed next to Jelly’s cot, painting her nails.

The Review:

All Rayne can think about is escaping her miserable life in London. She lives in a rundown, crime laden, and crowded housing development with no real prospect of getting out. Rayne also feels suffocated and trapped by her mother, caring for her baby brother, show more and her controlling boyfriend, Damian. She struggles to maintain her sanity amid all the noise and violence. Rayne has the opportunity to take a break from her studies and decides to take a job at a secluded country estate, Morton’s Keep. The very idea of being near the mansion late at night paralyzes the locals with fear. Eventually, Rayne makes new friends and becomes enamored with the very creepy and mysterious St. John. Not only does Rayne believe that her newfound friends have something to hide, she becomes suspicious about the history surrounding Morton’s Keep and as she delves deeper into the Keep’s lore she finds a lot more than she bargains for.

Possessed is engaging and addresses a lot of real life issues. For example, Rayne does not possess an idyllic family life to say the least. Rayne also possesses certain foibles, such as her somewhat cavalier relationship with the truth. Strangely, flaws like these serve to make Rayne even more sympathetic. I was captivated by her struggle to strike out on her own so far away from her familiar life in London. Ms. Cann also doesn’t skimp on the supporting cast, which consists of well realized personalities that all speak with authentic voices. The interplay amongst these characters was authentic and captured the real vibe between young adults. The character of St. John is a special stand out. I thought that I had him all figured out, but I was completely wrong.

Needless to say I really enjoyed Possessed. Ms. Cann delivers a chilling and eerie world that will leave you wanting more. The pacing of the book is perfect and Morton’s Keep drips with atmosphere. I eagerly await a return trip to the world of Possessed.

Notable Scene:

The words liquefied her with terror. She broke cover and ran. She had no idea if the men were following – the cracking, crashing noise of her flight covered any sound they may have made. She hurtled on, arms out in front, shielding her face from the branches whipping at her, running anywhere there was a path through the trees, running, running, doubling back on herself, her breath coming in great gasps….

FTC Advisory: Scholastic provided me with an ARC of Possessed. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review. In addition, I don’t receive affiliate fees for anything purchased via links from my site. show less

En lättsam men bra bok. Rich är en typisk tonårs kille, som har det dåligt med pengar, plötsligt får han en jätte chans att tjäna massa med cash men då blir det mindre tid för skolan. Och så finns det en tjej som plötsligt börjar visa intresse men det intresset gäller alltså den nya Rich han som har stålar. Jag älskade denna bok och det finns en fortsättning också som jag helt klart kommer att läsa.

Teen Chick-Lit.

As an adult I frequently dip into Young Adult books. This one, however, was not a cross-over; it was definitely a teen read. I have given it 4* though, as I feel that it would be a great read for this age group and I shall pass mine on for a friend's daughter to enjoy.

The central character, Chloe, is having a tough time at home and things are not going so well at school. When a new girl, Davinia, joins the school and seems to be aloof and unfased by the petty squabbling, show more Chloe starts to hero-worship her. The friendship grows and Chloe is invited on holiday with the family. All is not as it seems, unfortunately, and Chloe's dream holiday is looking pretty miserable. Can the holiday be saved? You'll have to read the book to find out, I'm sure you'll enjoy it. show less

A disturbing story about a girl struggling to get out from under her overbearing and neurotic mother and sister. After being crushed by their fears all her life, she's ready to explore life.

But what is she willing to tolerate in order to be free of them? Is she living with a ghost or is she just seeing things?

It was an interesting tale, but not one that will haunt of spook me. It was light in it's surreal elements.