Here and Never

It's clear from the first pages of this novel that there's a dreadful secret to be discovered. This, combined with the intriguing construction of the story - a parallel of past and present events in alternate sections, drew me on to read it in one sitting. 16-year-old Alice is staying with her Uncle Max in his remote house in Cornwall. Through a series of literary devices - overheard telephone calls, diary entries and a developing friendship between the two - the reason for Alice's depression is revealed. Harley tackles contentious issues with aplomb - solvent abuse, suicide, grief and the supernatural run their course here and their treatment is never less than credible. This is a remarkable book, worthy of a wide audience amongst 14-16 year-old readers.