A wealth of wizards Even if, by some strange magic, you have managed to miss the publicity surrounding the arrival of the latest book in the Harry Potter series, a quick look at the bestseller lists would confirm that J K Rowling's novels are riding sky-high in the supernatural fiction stakes. Yet, in a brave move, G P Taylor's Shadowmancer , a fantasy tale of courageous deeds and sorcery, has been released to coincide with the publication of The Order of the Phoenix. Comparisons will inevitably be made, particularly since Shadowmancer is also aimed at older children and features teenage heroes. In fact, Shadowmancer is different in many respects. About the story Set in the 1700s, the story tells of Thomas and Kate's battle against an evil magistrate and vicar, Obadiah Demurral, and takes place in smuggling country around Whitby. Readers can follow the action by means of a charming map showing villages overlooking the 'German Ocean'. Demurral is determined to use witchcraft and the supernatural in his quest for ultimate power. This brings him into conflict with Thomas, Kate and their mysterious friend, Raphah, who offers a tantalising glimpse of another country and culture. Appraisal The book is an intriguing mix of fantasy and adventure story. However, a seamless link between the two elements seems to be lacking in the early part of the novel. In general, the narrative seems to gain momentum as it progresses, providing a more natural-sounding dialogue, and a lighter touch in the occasional flashes of humour. In Thomas and Kate, the author has created two attractive heroes who will, no doubt, feature in further adventures. In fact, Taylor teasingly introduces a few more characters who may well merit adventures of their own in future books. There are strong moral and religious elements in the book. Alongside the major contest between good and evil, and between god and the devil, Taylor poses challenging questions about racism and class division. Whilst there are obvious similarities here with J K Rowling's books, the styles are very different. Through sheer weight of detail, Rowling has built a whole new world that has become as familiar as our own. Taylor, on the other hand, offers very little explanation for his fantastic creatures. He just describes, and asks us to imagine and accept. He mixes the supernatural with the earthly and comes up with an ultimately exciting book. Commendation Shadowmancer would certainly appeal to a wide audience.
Reviewer: Suzanne High Is your favourite book reviewed in these pages? If not, get your slate and chalk to work, and make yourself and your best book part of the Book Club! Write a review. | 
