Hex Hall - Rachel Hawkins

Hex Hall
Rachel Hawkins
Pub: Simon & Schuster
Cover Illus: Aleta Rafton
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Not sure if this is stand alone or book one. Probably the first in a series.

After another spell that doesn't work out quite as intended Sophie Mercer is sent to Hex Hall. Having been raised by her human mother with no contact with other witches she struggles to fit in at a the reform school for witches, fairies and shifters. Added to the mix are her vampire room mate, a couple of murders and the ghost who seems to be unusually interested in Sophie.

I was excited about this one, it looked as though it was going to be a lot of fun. It was a really entertaining read, fairly quick and easy to get through. There were a few problems. Time seemed to move a little oddly, events moving on a week but conversations almost picked up as though it was five minutes later. The ending seemed a little bit rushed and I found one particular revelation awkward, on the other hand if this is the first in a series then it all makes perfect sense and I withdraw the last couple of comments.

For the most part though this was really good, the characters were engaging and Sophie was likeable and fairly sympathetic and it's easy to slip into her narrative. Younger readers will likely love this wholeheartedly, older readers will find it light and enjoyable so an all round win.

I will be passing this book on to one of the Young & Un:Bound reviewers so look out for a youth view on the novel in the future.