Ambergate

Patricia Elliott
Little, Brown Young Readers (2007)
ISBN 9780316010603
Reviewed by Nicole LeBoeuf (age 16) for Reader Views (4/07)


Patricia Elliott’s novel “Ambergate” is a suspenseful tale of fascinating characters with the ability to capture you within moments. Growing up in Europe and the Far East, Elliott always had a creative spirit. She has spent her life around books, working in publishing, at bookstores, and finally as a college literature teacher. Her first novel “The Ice Boy” won many awards, followed closely by “Murkmere.” The companion novel, “Ambergate” is full of potential.

The gothic mystery spins a tale of a young orphan without a name facing countless terrors. It is easy to fall in love with the characters Elliott weaves, as they become so complete in the imagination. The orphaned girl, living in a world we’ve never experienced before, is forced from the comfort of the place she has called home for so long. Facing the world alone, she is in constant terror of the soldiers from the capital finding her, as she committed a hideous crime in her past. Always in constant danger, she overcomes one obstacle after another.

The characters she encounters in her flight are unforgettable, as each is creatively portrayed. The tale dives into complexity as her journey moves on, but as detailed as the novel is, it is never anything but a pleasure to read. The storyline is always clear and never cluttered. Each sentence flows so perfectly, with simple, beautiful detail. Once Elliott’s words have pulled you in, it is as though the world and characters she created are living and breathing. Close your eyes and you can hear the birds singing in the Wasteland, feel the sweep of swan feathers against your skin and smell the sweet fragrance of the wedding flowers...

 “Ambergate” is a simply beautiful novel. Age is not a thing of concern once you have turned its first page, as it is perfect for anyone. “Ambergate” is an inspiring tale, filled with courageous characters that will touch any heart that dares to enter Elliott’s world.

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