Fiction books read in the holidays

'The Prince of Mist' by Carlos Ruiz Zafon - This was an excellent read in a timeless, fairytale style rather like Cornelia Funke's 'Inkheart', the Lemony Snicket series 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' or 'The Lamplighter' series by David Cornish. ****

'Song of the Lioness' quartet by Tamora Pierce - Another brilliant read although I enjoyed 'The Immortals' quartet a fraction more but this is largely a matter of personal taste. I have now read pretty much everything Tamora Pierce has written and remain very impressed with her work. ****1/2

'Sasha' by Joel Shepherd - I found it very difficult to get involved with either the plot or the characters in this book. I can't really put my finger on what failed to thrill but I really could not be bothered completing it which is a rareoccurrence for me. *1/2

'The Devouring' by Simon Holt - This book became a tad predictable towards the end but aside from this was a very enjoyable read. Some eeirie moments of horror that I wish could have been sustained for longer. ***1/2

'Wings' by Apilynne Pike - If you can set aside the grotesqueness of visualising a girl who has grown an enormous flower (an image that I personally find rather silly) you will enjoy this book with its sensual and romantic overtones. ***1/2

'Shiver' by Maggie Stiefvater - I actually found the writing and plotline a great deal more rivetting than 'Twilight'. Although Stephenie meyer praises Aprilynne Pike for her 'remarkable debut' on the cover of 'Wings', Maggie Stiefvater better deserves the compliment. The insights into Wolf behaviour reminded me of Alison Croggon's second book 'The Riddle' in the Pelinor series. An excellent read. ****1/2