Title: Marked
Author: Kim Richardson
First published March 15, 2011
280 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781461017097 (ISBN10: 1461017092)
Rating: 3.69
Overview
Marked by Kim Richardson takes us on a thrilling journey with sixteen-year-old Kara Nightingale. Just like any other day, Kara’s life takes an unexpected turn when she dies and wakes up in a world completely different from her own.
To her surprise, she finds herself recruited as a rookie for the Guardian Angel Legion. Her new job pulls her into the supernatural world where she encounters strange creatures and demons feeding on the souls of mortals.
With the guidance of her friend, David, Kara embarks on an adventure that will change her life forever. Get ready for an extraordinary ride filled with action, suspense, and a hint of romance in Marked by Kim Richardson.
About the Author
Meet Kim Richardson, an accomplished author known for the popular SOUL GUARDIANS book series. She calls the eastern part of Canada her home, where she resides with her husband, two dogs, and an elderly cat.
Kim has authored several other successful book series, including MYSTICS and DIVIDED REALMS. Her books are widely available in print, and translations can be found in more than 7 different languages.
Editoral Review
In “Marked” by Kim Richardson, the first book in “The Soul Guardians” series, we are introduced to a world where magic and ancient beings coexist with humans. Richardson is a Canadian author who has written several young adult books and “Marked” was her debut novel first published on March 15, 2011.
The novel is a blend of supernatural, fantasy, and romance genres. It follows the story of sixteen-year-old Kara Nightingale, who wakes up one day with strange markings on her back and discovers she is a guardian, a powerful being destined to protect the world from evil spirits.
As she starts her training at a supernatural academy, she learns about her new powers and the responsibilities that come with them. Along the way, she meets new friends and enemies, faces challenges and dangers, and discovers the truth about her parents’ mysterious disappearance.
The book is set in present-day London, but with a twist of magical elements threaded throughout. Richardson’s writing style is easy to read, yet engaging.
The characters are well-developed and likable, especially Kara, who is a strong, independent, and relatable protagonist. The pacing of the story is steady, and the world-building is imaginative and vividly described.
The novel’s themes of love, family, loyalty, and self-discovery are relevant and resonate with readers of all ages. One of the strengths of “Marked” is the attention to detail in building the world and mythology of the guardians.
Richardson weaves historical and cultural references into the narrative, giving it depth and resonance. The conflicts and plot twists are well-crafted and keep the reader engaged from beginning to end.
Another strength is the diversity of the characters and the representation of different cultures and races, making the novel feel inclusive and representative of a larger community. On the other hand, one of the limitations of “Marked” is its predictability.
While the plot is engaging, it follows a familiar trope of the chosen one who must master their powers and save the world, which can be predictable at times. Overall, “Marked” is an enjoyable and well-written book that will appeal to fans of the supernatural and fantasy genres.
It is most suitable for young adult readers and may be enjoyed by fans of “Harry Potter” and “Twilight.” I highly recommend “Marked” to any reader looking for a captivating and magical adventure. I give it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
