Review: Academy 7 by Anne Osterlund

Last word first: An intriguing story of mystery and friendship. (4/5)

Would Joe like this book? No.

Description: Other than the fact that they’ve both been accepted to the exclusive Academy 7, Aerin and Dane couldn’t have less in common. Aerin is an orphan recently escaped from somewhere she can’t admit to, living in secrecy. Dane is wealthy son of privilege, dedicated to annoying his father but otherwise adrift in life. Despite their differences, they find themselves drawn together by a mysterious connection in their backgrounds.

My thoughts: I liked Academy 7, though it wasn’t exactly what I expected. I thought it would be a bit more sci-fi, but other than the futuristic setting, there are no sci-fi elements. I would classify it more along the lines of mystery/light romance.

I really enjoyed the character of Aerin. She’s smart, funny and she can whup any one in hand-to-hand combat, though her troubled background has left her a little skittish. She and Dane are definitely an unlikely match, though one that was entertaining to see. The romance in the book is actually very minor; most of the book is about Dane and Aerin becoming friends instead of competitors. This story is on the younger end of the YA spectrum, totally appropriate for young teens.

The writing style was great. It’s descriptive without slowing down the story, which is a tough balance to achieve. The grand setting of prestigious Academy 7 springs to life, as do the characters that inhabit it. Though the plot isn’t what I would describe as action-packed, it’s definitely interesting enough to keep you going.

About Anne Osterlund: She defied all wise and rational advice by deciding to take a year off from teaching in order to write. She moved us back to Eastern Oregon and spent that year revising and revising and revising Aurelia and trying to learn everything she could about publishing. -from the bio on her website