The Transient - The Castle Trilogy

Having read Maree Ward Russell's excellent paranormal suspense - Roses at Dusk, I couldn't wait to read her latest offering - The Transient.

Billed as a ghost story (fantasy) for young adults, this book offers an escape for all ages. As seems to be this writer's trademark, she is able to paint any picture she wishes without crossing the lines of indecency.

With each new page I was consumed by an urgent need to continue to the next, reading nearly half of the book in one sitting (this simply never happens)! As usual, Maree gives us strong characters and a twisting path, but she adds an innocent softness that brings only joy.

It was like returning to an earlier time in my life and being filled by the essence of its glow. I didn't want the story to end, and the good news is, a sequel is due soon ... so I won't need to wait long for a return to these lines.

If you are my age or older, this book will remind you of some of the things our world has lost, it will retrieve memories of reading C.S. Lewis at primary school and it will leave you feeling happy. If you are younger than me, this book was written for you - so what are you waiting for!!!!

As I now expect from Maree, the well written prose weave their magic about you as you fall in love with the setting, the characters and the plot. It doesn't matter how old you are, you will love this book and though it may sound odd, it will love you right back!

The most enjoyable read I can remember - I will read it again, just for the magic it can bring.