Blood Dance

The characters in this slim volume seem to suffer an excess of shock, horror and grief - not surprising perhaps when you consider that they face an ancient curse. The nine standing stones in the vicinity of Garland and Coryn's homes assume human form to wreak revenge on Coryn for the sins of his ancestors. Garland can save him, but only if she can unravel an old riddle before he's claimed. The cliffhangers come thick and fast but the exaggerated emotional reactions of the characters strain credulity and rob the narrative of light and shade. The book is only 101 pages but by way of consolation an appetite-whetting sequel to another 'Dark Enchantment' title appears at the end. Readers who demand instant gratification and hysterically-paced narratives will probably warm to this story.