SPOOKED BY A SUSPICION by Risa Nyman – Review by Jennifer Gordon
Spooked by a Suspicion by Risa Nyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I was first introduced to the twelve year old Rocky in ‘Swallowed by a Secret’ just after his father had died suddenly and in mysterious circumstances, this story follows Rocky during his transition from middle school to high school. However, Rocky is more concerned with the shocking news that his mother is going to marry the devious Ted who apparently has a “devil’s beard, ominous eyebrows in constant motion, and black, beady eyes” according to Rocky. When Rocky has a few strange accidents he is convinced that Ted is somehow behind them, maybe using his evil powers. Rocky makes plans with his girlfriend Olive to have a showdown with Ted after he starts working at Rocky’s summer program. Before this can happen Rocky is accused of stealing and thinks that Ted is framing him, but thinking that no one will believe him he runs off into the woods. Here he meets an old hermit who tells Rocky about his tragic life and urges Rocky to return and prove his innocence. Rocky is determined to clear his name and then plan a case against Ted in the hopes of stopping the wedding.
This is an enjoyable and engaging YA novel with a very likeable and relatable, especially if your a teenager yourself, main character Rocky. I also love Rocky and Olive’s relationship. The storyline flows well and the mystery element of the plot kept me happily turning the pages. The novel deals with teenagers issues, in particular having a stepparent introduced into their lives and I found looking at this from Rocky’s point of view very intriguing. I was fully immersed in the story and thought it was an insightful read.
