You will be delighted in the intriguing mystery of Percy Parker!
This is a beautifully written paranormal love story (set in Victorian London) that will have your eyes brimming with tears (from both elation and sadness), throughout.
It begins with an introduction to six unrelated children, brought together to receive a specific supernatural gift, along with the ability to see ghosts. An oracle prepares them for their future, explaining that they are to form an alliance called "The Guard" that protects humans from restless spirits.
She informs them that they will eventually encounter a seventh member that will complete their group but advises them to be cautious, as a probable deception might incite them to trust the wrong person, jeopardizing their cause, resulting in terrible unrest in the world.
As adults, they attempt to lead normal lives by keeping conventional occupations. The two that head the group (Rebecca and Alexi) have started a school, and a new student, Percy Parker, enrolls at the age of eighteen. Due to her secluded upbringing (she was raised in a convent), and her unique appearance (she is described as "ghostly", an albino) she is extremely self-conscious, and timid. While Percy normally excels in school, (and also has a few supernatural abilities of her own), she struggles with her math classes given by her professor, the handsome and distinguished, Alexi Rychman. He offers to tutor her. During their visits, he helps her overcome her insecurities, all the while, realizing that her gentle disposition, and sweet mannerisms, ease his wearied soul.
Here is a quick excerpt that truly touched my heart. Basically, Percy, walks through life completely covered, to hide her pallor from those who react with alarm at her appearance. Professor Rychman, dismayed by her unease, encourages her to remove the layers, when in his presence. Reluctantly, she does so;
"She was attuned to even the most minuscule response. Her merciless, hypnotic gaze found his and she frowned. "You see, Professor, even you, so stern and stoic, cannot hide your shock, surprise, distaste - "
"Distaste?" he interrupted quietly. "Is that what you see?"
If Percy had taken the time to truly consider his response, she would have noticed that his tone was far from distasteful; it was, in fact, flattering. But she plowed on, choosing hurt. "What else can one feel when they behold living flesh that looks dead?"
"You assume ghost and not angel?"
*Swoon*
As the story continues, we get a sense of real camaraderie between the members of the group, and I found myself laughing out loud, at their antics. Eventually, the issue of the "seventh" member arises, causing disturbance amongst them, as two of their new acquaintances, have the potential to be the "one".
Before I divulge anymore, I implore you, for the benefit of your own happiness, to read this book (there is MUCH more, I promise you)! You will be delighted in the intriguing mystery of Percy. This story is replete with surprises, unfolding into a tale that you didn't see coming. With secrets and foreboding danger that could change the fate of the world, and the exquisite delight in a budding romance between a trusted teacher and his student, it will keep you riveted until the very end.
While the story, in itself is fascinating, the author has a haunting way with words, that will caress your very soul. With an abundance of romantic tension, angst, mystery, and adventure, you will be hard-pressed to put it down.
18 out of 18 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback.
Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.
Overview
The albino beauty who has come to study at Victorian London’s Athens Academy will learn not only to deal with the ghosts that she can see, but her own part in the puzzling prophecy that threatens the known world.
What People Are Saying
M. J. Rose
"A compelling, engaging ...