Indefinable power draws great attention. Attention is not high on the agenda of orphan Cirrus Flux.
In a time when science and religion tussled endlessly for control, a divine power is found by the father of Cirrus Flux named the Breath of God. This revolutionary discovery sparks an expedition funded by the richest in London as they aspire to harness this energy. Cirrus’ dad is recruited to lead this expedition thus leaving Cirrus as an orphan after the death of his mother from childbirth. A devious mesmerist also remains in London with the acquired knowledge that a remnant of the power remains in the capital. Cirrus soon discovers that the evil is shadowing his every move and after a meeting with a fire-breathing bird, he escapes from the all-seeing eye by slipping into the back streets. Helped by the intermittent friendships of Pandora and Bottle Top, Cirrus finds a way to survive, for now. The real question for him is can he defeat the perils that await?
Following on from his excellent first novel, ‘Endymion Spring’, Matthew Skelton has continued to use the central themes of intensity and mystery. The seamless intertwining of themes, description and characterisation flaunt the skills of this upcoming author. The emotions that you experience are parallel to that of the characters, and never once is boredom considered as we follow in the shadow of Cirrus. The revelations implemented in the novel constantly revitalise the reader’s interest in the book and provide the energy to carry on reading long into the night. Aimed at anyone 11+, Skelton’s skill and fluency in writing attracts a broader range of ages where the plot and craft can both be appreciated. Matthew Skelton: name to remember.
By Douglas, 16
