REVIEW: Kelley Armstrong's 'Stolen'

Stolen

Author:                 Kelley Armstrong
Publisher:              Time Warner
First published:        2003
Price:                  £6.99
ISBN:                   075153241X
Classification:         Adult fiction (thriller)
Number of pages:        532             

Ten years ago, Elena Michaels’ lover turned her into
the only female werewolf in the world. A group of
scientists have just learnt of her existence and they
want to track her down to study her. However, they
have not reckoned on the determination of Elena, her
adoptive family and her allies.
        
‘Stolen’ is an interesting novel in that it fits into
the new genre of modern, trendy and humorous novels
that poke fun at themselves or the genre. Here,
Armstrong introduces various beings, from werewolves
to vampires, and sorcerers to telekinetic demons. She
tries to give them all independent personalities and
behaviour and the reader will soon find himself
rooting for Elena, as she struggles against the
scientists.
        
When choosing characters with supernatural powers,
authors can set themselves easy, or difficult, tasks.
For instance, some vampires cannot go out in direct
sunlight. However, Armstrong alters the traditional
legends in various ways and melds them to fit her
story, making an exciting and fast-paced tale. Towards
the end, the novel seems to drag slightly, but
Armstrong skilfully builds up to her sequel, ‘Dime
Store Magic’. 
        
Whilst this was the first time I had read a novel by
Armstrong, I would be happy to read another in this
funny, punchy and exciting series. Well-crafted
characters, with a lot of potential for development,
mean that Armstrong should have a success on her hands.

=====
Luke Croll
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