Darkwater

//Darkwater// by Catherine Fisher

I liked this one but I'm not sure it's award-worthy. Sarah is the granddaughter of a man who lost her family's estate in a bet, and Sarah's father has never been able to come to terms with how low they have fallen. Sarah finds work with the mysterious new owner of the estate and he makes a bargain with her: he will give her one hundred years and the means to regain her family's fortune and repair their reputation in exchange for her soul. During the last few days of her hundred years she meets Tom, who would do anything to attend the school that she established in her old home, and tries to prevent him from making the same bargain she did. The first part of the book dragged a little and there were a few aspects that weren't explained as well as I would have liked. It was enjoyable but not outstanding. Caitlin, Bedford Public Library

I liked the Faustian aspect to this book. It examines the differences between good and evil and the answer is not always clear. Unfortunately, I thought there were too many questions left unanswered and the relationship between Ember and Tom is not as developed as it could be. Should appeal to both boys and girls. Enjoyable but not my favorite. Sylvie- Nesmith Library