Touch of Death

Gr 8 Up—Being an ordinary teen is not part of Jodi Marshall's destiny. As weird events happen around her, a stranger appears revealing that he possesses important information that she needs. She believes that Alex is a disturbed stalker but quickly realizes that he is telling the truth. She learns that she is an Ophi, a descendant of Medusa with tainted blood, and that she has the power to kill or heal. Leaving her old life behind, Jodi travels with Alex to live with other necromancers where she will learn how to harness and control her powers. It becomes clear right from the start that Jodi is not only powerful but also that she has special ties to Medusa herself. These abilities set her apart but also put her in terrible danger. If she cannot set things right, the future of her kind is in peril. Hashway's debut novel expertly weaves together Greek mythology, necromancy, and zombies in a way that is fresh and original. The gripping plotline feels a bit rushed but is full of intrigue, romance, and betrayal, and the engaging characters include a goddess, evil villains, a feisty heroine, and a noble hero. Readers will definitely be on the lookout for the next installment in this series.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY