The Shapeshifter's SecretPublisher: Cedar Fort, 2012Genre: YA Paranormal FantasyJulia is finally discovering what–not who–she is.
Like any sixteen-year-old, Julia's used to dealing with problems. From her overprotective father to her absent mother to a teacher who definitely has it in for her. But everything changes when Julia's reactions become oddly vicious and angry---more animal than human. This action-packed adventure has it all: humor, romance, and a plot that will keep you guessing to the very last page.
Strange things have been happening lately. Julia's anger has become nearly uncontrollable and she doesn't know why, he mysterious new boy at school acts deeply concerned for her without reason, and her father and uncle have been talking about obscure things that seem to be related to her. After a scary encounter with a pond (yes, a pond!) and a panther who saved her, the family secret comes to light. Julia is a werecat from a royal family in an alternate world called Ossai, and people want her dead. Now that they've found her, the only safe place for her is Lockham Castle, where other kids with abilities go to learn use of their powers. Life as Julia knew it is about to change, and she has to get ready to face her new life in Ossai. From the moment Julia stepped through that portal I was swept away by the fantasy. Heather Ostler has really created a innovative world complete with magical weapons, incredible races, political plots, and a school to rival Hogwarts!
Julia is a very stubborn and inquisitive girl with tendency to get into trouble. This leads her to uncover some pretty dark secrets about her past and the reason why she was in exile. But the closer she gets to finding out more about her past, the more danger she puts herself in. However, Julia is not about to give up! She can't keep letting others risk their lives to protect her and not do anything to protect herself. Through her journey Julia makes some great friends at school, and even finds love. I was never sure about Terrence, but he seems to be genuine. All the time I rooted for Caleb, but sadly he's already spoken for. I have to say, I so wanted that cat fight to happen! I'm still hopeful for those two though. That ending left me thinking there might be more to Caleb and Julia's relationship. And that’s the thing about Ossai and Julia's past. There are so many secrets!
The world building was fantastic. I was smiling like a kid in a candy store with all the details Ostler drew into her world, like the guardians at the castle, the stone table, and the color changing scarves! It was a fast paced and intriguing plot. Once Julia got to the castle the pages just flew by. Though I did figure out who was the bad guy from pretty early on, I was still anxiously waiting for the moment Julia faced the villain. And the moment didn't disappoint. Magic battle with magic weapons and shapeshifters and all that. I so wanted more! The ending left me very excited about a future sequel for The Shapeshifter's Secret.
*I received this book via Netgalley from the publisher*
Favorite Quotes:
Sierra looked uncomfortable. "Yes, Gabriel, but if we ask him then his head will get even bigger than it already is. Besides if I go talk to him he'll think I like him."
"Sierra, we aren't in elementary anymore. It's okay to talk to boys."
