Review of Marysvale by Jared Southwick

Marysvale

By Jared Southwick

John Casey was ten years old when his mother was murdered…and ten when his father hid the truth from him. Without that knowledge, he has no idea of the enemies that lie in wait.

Now grown up, John lives a solitary life, in a world enslaved by ignorance and superstition, when anyone unusual is treated with distrust and even killed…and John has some very unusual gifts. When he is accused of witchcraft, John does the only thing he’s ever done – Run! That is, until he meets Jane, who lives in the bleak, imprisoned town of Marysvale. Life outside the safety of the town walls means certain death from the brutal monsters that hunt there. However, life inside, under the rule of a tyrannical leader, means no life at all.

As the love between John and Jane grows, the dangers of Marysvale unfold; and for the first time in his life, John discovers that there is something worth dying for.

This is a book from a local Utah author. I love that we have so much talent out here and it is getting showcased so well. This is a fantastic book. There are unusual creatures that lurk in the woods outside of Marysvale and a few other towns in the forest. John is tied to these animals but can’t remember how. John just happens upon Marysvale after fleeing from the current town he is residing. He is a drifter and often moves on when those around him start to recognize his unusual talents. You will have to read the book to find out what those talents are – I don’t like giving anything away.

I give this book 4 stars. It is a fun, easy read but has lots of action and drama. The love story is great to watch develop but it not over the top so it doesn’t interfere with the story at all. This is part of a series and I will definitely be reading the next one that comes out this Fall! This is definitely a romantic, action-packed story filled with monsters and tyrants, heroes and heroines.

Thanks to Media Guests for the opportunity to review this book!