Talina in the Tower

Just when the children’s fantasy novel seemed to be settling into a series of tired stereotypes and repetitive plots, along comes some truly original writing radiating an energy and general sense of brio delightful to behold. This extraordinary story introduces the ravageures, a very sexist group of male half-wolves and half-hyenas intent on destroying Venice in order to put right an ancient wrong. Up against them is Talina, a spirited young heroine with a wicked tongue, a pet cat, some old ladies and a well-meaning, scholarly professor, also good at magic. Packed with incident, always good-humoured even at the darkest moments and with the sense of a final happy ending always imminent, this writing is shot through with an unmistakeable sense of personal enjoyment on the part of the author. Allusions to Venice abound, along with scattered references to past superstitions and outlandish once common nick-names. Michelle Lovric is clearly a name to watch, with all those who enjoyed this story – and there surely should be many – more than eager to get their hands on the next one.