Pluss Nicole 9780143204589 United Book Distributors 30 Aug 2010

How lucky am I? Not one but two talented readers/reviewers in my family. Kayla guest reviews and shares her thoughts on Scout- Nicole Plüss. Enjoy!

A book based on interpretations of the past complete with adventure and romance, Scout- Nicole Plüss was a  brilliant read.

Main character Kit Lovell is a young woman on a voyage to Australia from England, her story is set around the 18th century as the customs and culture throughout the novel suggest.

Author Nicole Plüss creates a balance of an intriguing plotline and a factual interpretation of life at sea, which together with well rounded characters is what essentially made ‘Scout’ such an enjoyable read.

Kit is portrayed as intelligent, loyal and individual, as well as showing a lot of initiative and bravery through her actions and decisions made over the course of her journey.

She faces challenges of growing up- the inner turmoil of growing restlessness to be independent fighting against the loyalty and obedience she feels toward her mother, physical adolescent changes, a more adult perspective and a first crush.

The undertones of romance between Kit and young sailor Angel are subtle and discreet, yet somehow remain interesting- there is an ever-present spark and strong tension between them that is very intriguing.

Scout- Nicole Plüss is also a story of survival- mother nature is not kind to this voyage and there are many a casualty- but among the grief and loss there is an inspiring process of staying alive when the odds are not in your favour.

I cried reading this book- one key scene where Kit shows enormous strength and bravery as she fights for her life in impossible circumstances was actually painful to read; I cried for Kits safety.

Nicole Plüss writes emotion and uses emotive language effectively and smoothly, her writing comes across as genuine and heartfelt; and  the imagery used allows the readers imagination to easily picture the story unfold.

To conclude, Nicole Plüss has written an inspiring novel that proved difficult to put down- Kit is a brave, strong and empathetic character whom I will not soon forget.

Kayla