Melanie Smith (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform)
Set in the Welsh valleys, this young adult novel blends horror, myth and fairy tale and has a sense of menace throughout. Characterisation is spot on and 17-year-old Sephone’s distinctive voice draws the reader into her world. Something strange is happening and it is this mystery that makes the novel a page-turner. But things are never as clear-cut as they first appear and The Twist In The Branch has a few surprises as well as some blood and bone. A well-written debut.
Price: £6.99. Info: www.amazon.co.uk (DS)