Book Review: Trial By Fire By Josephine Angelini

Book Name: Trial By Fire
Author: Josephine Angelini
UK publisher: Macmillan
Summary: This world is trying to kill Lily Proctor. Her life-threatening allergies keep her from enjoying many of the experiences that other teenagers take for granted...which is why she is determined to enjoy her first (and perhaps only) high-school party. But Lily's life never goes according to plan, and after a humiliating incident in front of half her graduating class Lily wishes she could just disappear.

Suddenly Lily is in a different Salem - one overrun with horrifying creatures and ruled by powerful women called Crucibles. Strongest and cruellest of all the Crucibles is Lillian . . . Lily's identical other self in this alternate universe. This new version of her world is terrifyingly sensual, and Lily is soon overwhelmed by new experiences.

Lily realizes that what makes her weak at home is exactly what makes her extraordinary in New Salem. It also puts her life in danger. Thrown into a world she doesn't understand, Lily is torn between responsibilities she can't hope to shoulder alone, and a love she never expected.

But how can Lily be the saviour of this world when she is literally her own worst enemy?

Review: I had no idea what to expect when starting this novel. I approached this novel having no information about it. I made a decision not to read the synopsis and go into this story blind. When I knew Josephine Angelini wrote it I knew it would be an amazing story.

 Josephine has created word images so vivid that it is almost like watching a movie. She takes you for a romp through a world full of energy, witchcraft, lust, war, science and wrath. This book exudes originality. I found myself feeling every single emotion in the dictionary. Josephine's clever way of building your emotions up and breaking them down is something beyond mind blowing. As I read each page it excused research, love, passion and exciting prospects.

 The relationships in this novel were so addictive. They were not at all forced. It flowed beautifully, especially the relationship between Lily and Rowen. I haven't found a YA leading "couple” this good in a long time. That little pain in your chest you get when something is so emotionally good? Yeah that was me! I found Lily so brave and stubborn. But also really funny! She's the sort of girl you would want around if life wasn't so good. She sees the good in bad situations and I found that refreshing. Rowen on the other hand was a man of star crossed, melt at your feet, want him to feed you grapes shirtless sort of guy. Josephine really knows how to write a leading male. He is an excellent read.

 With its witty dialogue, stunning settings and addictive characters Trail by Fire is an addictive read and an instant favorite, which is a breath of fresh air in YA and left me screaming that it had to end.