The full article was printed in Doncopolitan Magazine – issue 29 May – 2018
The first in a three-part sequel, A Fistful of Feathers sufficiently whets the appetite.
At the tender age of only thirteen, Jo has had a tough life, in and out of different homes – with no place to call home and no family to love. It isn’t about to get easier either, Jo has an excruciating
lump on his back and after undergoing medical experimentation at the hands of the evil Dr Bowden, Jo has decided to run away.
In a night flit from the Bigwell’s farm, Jo escapes to his friend Dan’s house and plans his route to
freedom. The story then takes on a rite of passage journey, having a modern-day Catcher in the Rye feel to it. Jo endures fast and eventful twists and turns, experiencing many near misses as he is closely followed by ‘The Driver’(one of Bowden’s cronies) in his menacing BMW.
Jo is hiding a secret – something which could compromise his friendship with Dan, his newfound friends and Dan’s dad (who represents the father figure he has lacked but so
desperately craves.)
Can Jo get the love and acceptance he needs at the same time as releasing the other unfortunate
souls who have fallen foul to Dr Bowden and his evil minions?
The excellent Linda Jones creates the relatable, curious lovable character of Jo, as he demands the reader’s attention and empathy from the start. Most notable is Linda’s portrayal of the female characters throughout the book, teenage girls who demonstrate great leadership skills and a whole lot of kick-ass ness – no damsels in distress here!
Linda creates intrigue, mystery, and excitement, as the reader lusts for the next clue, devouring chapters with ease. This is a must-read for young adults and adults everywhere. A true coming-of-age
novel, with a classic resolution of conflict and elements of humour scattered throughout. A triumph for a talented writer from Doncaster and a reason to celebrate the culture we cultivate in Doncaster’s own literary scene.
DEADWOOD HALL – 7-9 YEARS OOZING MAGIC SERIES
Reviewed by the excellent Tonja Drecka on bookworm for kids. April 2019
https://bookwormforkids.blogspot.com/2019/04/review-deadwood-hall-by-linda-jones.html