Review: The Pace

The Pace by Shelena Shorts
Publisher: Lands Atlantic Publishing, LLC
Pub. Date: August 19th 2009
Pages: 312
Age Level: 14+

Synopsis
Weston Wilson is not immortal and he is of this world. But, aging is not part of his existence, and eighteen-year-old Sophie Slone is determined to find out why. In doing so, she could also uncover something about her own life expectancy that she may not want to know. Suddenly, immortality will mean everything and nothing all at the same time.

Intensely fascinating and rich with determination, The Pace brings together romance, mystery, and suspense in a compelling bond that is sure to have readers asking for more.

Review
In The Pace, debut author Shelena Shorts manages to take a common premise among YA literature and twist it into something much more satisfyingly original and unique.

I really liked Sophie's character as she was inquisitive, independent, and cautious when need be. Wes was so original and I absolutely loved him! He was the perfect romantic interest for this book. Both characters and their relationship were beautifully developed and so very realistic.

The story line of The Pace is utterly mesmerizing. This was one of those books I did not and could not put down. Everything in this book was so wonderfully paced, especially the background information. It was revealed gradually throughout the entire story so it not only kept the mystery alive but it also didn't overwhelm the rest of the story. Honestly I can't recall a single dull moment in this book and I was left thinking about it long after I had finished it.

Another thing I loved about this book was how the story was really more on the side of science fiction than paranormal and this provided for a very refreshing and much needed change of....well you know....pace. The writing was impressive and extremely well crafted. It never ceased to astound me how wonderfully Shorts managed to intertwine spiritual and scientific elements together along with romance, mystery and suspense.

As for the ending,(This is where I lose all professionalism and get fan girly.), it was like such a total cliffhanger and I was like, "Frikin' awesometastic ending!" and, "Oh. My. Gosh!" The ending alone is enough to have me ready to kill for The Broken Lake so if you get a copy before me, sleep with one eye open. *laughs maniacally before collecting self to continue more professionally*

All in all, The Pace was a magnificent, unforgettable, and riveting story I would recommend to every teen and young adult out there. Seriously, if you haven't already read this terrific book RUN and get it be it from a friend, library, bookstore, or a total stranger on a park bench. And don't forget what I said about The Broken Lake, I'm watching you. *points back and forth between eyes and computer screen* (Hmmm, maybe I spoke to soon about getting back to professionalism cause it just flew back out the window. :P)

Grade
Characters: B+
Writing: A-
Plot: A
Ending: A+
Enjoyment/Likability: A
Recommendable: A+
Cover: B+ (So very original and fits the title and book perfectly.)

Overall: A