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Compelling Story of Two Very Different Teenage Friends

By Clark Isaacs  

Susan Hughes has written a variety of children's books. She is an award-winning author of "Earth to Audrey," a graphic novel "No Girls Allowed," and several other books for a teenage audience. Her latest book "Virginia" introduces two friends, but Virginia's friend Ivy is really the heroine of this novel. It is through Ivy's narration the tale unfolds.

This is a compelling story of two very different teenage friends named Ivy Morrell and Virginia Donato and their growing up in the same neighborhood. One girl (Ivy) is relatively normal and the other (Virginia) is emotionally troubled. They share a secret which may prove to be very dangerous.

Something disturbing is happening in Virginia's house. She reveals to Ivy that she has been visited by an angel with a message. She calls him Gabriel. Virginia fears Gabriel, but at the same time believes all that he is telling her is the truth. Something bad was going to happen and she was the chosen one! Ivy promises Virginia she will not tell anyone about their secret.

However, Ivy feels Virginia has completely lost her mind. Ivy is determined to find out the truth and sets out to gather more information with the help of Virginia's brother Joe. She visits the Donato home frequently to make sure her friend is well and soon becomes increasingly uncomfortable. Ivy discovers Virginia's older brother Paul is acting weird after starting his own church behind his house. Ivy is sure whatever is going on in this church is related to Virginia's problems, but she just does not know how it is related.

Ivy's suspicions led her and Joe into a mysterious series of events which were intriguing and risky. She was positive that Paul was planning something unthinkable and she was going to find out what it was.

As the story picks up pace and excitement, Ivy realizes time was short for her to find out what was happening. This brave young girl takes matters into her own hands and comes close to being detected as she investigates the comings and goings of the followers of Paul's church. She concluded, Paul's mission had something to do with the end of times!

You will need to read the book to find out what happens. Virginia and Ivy tell an unusual story from beyond-their-years point of view with a suspenseful ending. The author has taken an extraordinary view into the minds of these two impressionable 14 year-olds and makes you think about your own beliefs. The book, with its religious overtones, is current and you can believe, or not, it is up to you.

A wholesome story that can be enjoyed by teenagers, appreciated by adults, and is highly recommended for both.

Clark Isaacs is an accomplished book critic who is published in local newspapers and national book review lists. Contact Clark through his website at clarkisaacs.ning.com or through NewsBlaze.