Yza-Dora's "Secrets of Ravenstone"

Title: Witches, Werewolves, and Vampires, Oh My!

“Secrets of Ravenstone” by Yza-Dora

Reviewed by R.E. Views

07/21/2015

9:30 p.m.

When Yzavela escapes The Great City of London with her witch-mom, the last place she expects to end up is the beautiful castle of Ravenstone. She is even more surprised to find that the castle houses werewolves, witches, and vampires, all living together in harmony under the care and guidance of Marxus, the Keeper of Secrets. Destined to be Marxus’ heir, Yzavela learns about vampire lore, werewolf mythology, and that dragons still exist! Follow Yzavela as she gets prepositions by werewolves, kidnapped by cannibals, and falls in love with a vampire.

Secrets of Ravenstone by Yza-Dora is a young adult novel filled with everything The Twilight Saga and The Vampire Diaries lovers could want. There is tension between the werewolves and vampires, romantic interests between mortals and immortals, and there are deep secrets to uncover. The dialogue is quick, funny, and encapsulates each character well though it is sometimes stiff and clunky. In some occasions, the humor or tone of the dialogue is unclear. Each character had different struggles, different personalities, and different wants. They feel real and relatable. The story moves quickly, flowing like Yzavela’s journal, getting deep into her own thoughts and desires.

Though this novel is in-depth and interesting, the writing is confusing at times. Yza-Dora switches from first person to third person to second person all within one page without any warning or explanation. The writing itself is repetitive and awkward in many places, giving details that aren’t needed. Where Yza-Dora shines is with characters’ emotions. Yza-Dora mesmerizes throughout action sequences, training sessions, or romantic moments. My favorite scenes were when Yzavela encountered Eric; Yza-Dora clearly loved their relationship dynamic and it comes out in the writing.

I give Secrets of Ravenstone 4 out of 5 stars.

Best Wishes,

R.E.Views