One hundred percent, the first thing that caught my attention about this book was the title. This author, Lindsay Ribar, is definitely way better at thinking up titles than I am, as most of mine end up being really long and academic sounding, or waaaay too simple. Like, one word simple. But this title is fantastic and immediately makes you want to know what the book is about.
The Quick family has a magical ability to steal things–memories, emotions, abilities–from other people. They were bestowed this ability in order to keep the town of Three Peaks safe from the doom of the cliff that hangs over their town. Aspen doesn’t really think about the effects of his stealing from others, until the events of one particular summer open his eyes to what his abilities and the ritual really mean–and how far his family is willing to go in order to keep their secrets safe.
I was a little put off at the beginning of this book, mainly because it is clear that Aspen is so incredibly selfish and lacking in the empathy department. But the good news is that this is definitely a coming-of-age story, meaning that character development is a key element to the story. Thank god. I don’t know if I could have kept going if Aspen remained a selfish prick for the entirety of the novel.
I absolutely loved how unique and fresh this story was. Sure, it follows a pretty typical coming-of-age or YA mystery plot, but it’s filled with twists and turns that you don’t really see coming. The idea of reaching is also fascinating; being able to take the best elements of someone else and use them for your own benefit. It’s creative and refreshing, and I absolutely would recommend this to a friend. I think it has something for everyone.
4/5 stars