Shapeshifter: Mistwood by Leah Cypess

Shapeshifter is an ability to shift into any creature - animal and mystical creature. This power usually held by creature from Otherworld or spirit. I took fancy of shapeshifter after I played Neverwinter Nights and one of the Druid's ability is shapeshifting into animals of other magical creatures such as golem or balor. I won plenty fights using this ability :D

In Celtic Mythology, there are several stories about shapeshifter. The most notably is the legend of Kelpie. Kelpie is an Otherworld creature who could shapeshift itself into anything it wants; man or animal. Although its favorite form is a white horse. It lured people to ride it and then took them into the lake to the Otherworld. There's also mythology about shapeshifter as the one portrayed by Leah Cypess in this story; a magical forest spirit who could turn itself into any animal and possessed huge power that man can't compete.

Title: Mistwood

Author: Leah Cypess

Publisher: Greenwillow Books (HarperCollins)

Rating: 4 stars

Isabel is a shapeshifter, she lived in Mistwood until Prince Rokan caught her. The Prince bound her and asked her to serve and protect her, just like she did to all kings in the past. The problem is, Isabel had lost her memories; she didn't remember what happened in the past and why she's in Mistwood instead of  guarding the king's family. Not only that, she also couldn't shapeshift inside the castle. What had happened in the past? Why people seemed relieved that she couldn't remember anything? And what should she do when someone showed up and claimed to be the real prince?

I really like this book. I'm always fascinated with Celtic Mythology and shapeshifter is part of it. For me it seems so romantic yet terrifying that one is able to shift into any creature one wants. Shapeshifter aside, I like this book because of the strong main character; I had enough with damsel in distress and Isabel is definitely not. I liked her initial cold and intimidating attitude but I also enjoyed her development, especially after she realized her true nature. Other characters are also interesting; especially Clarisse. Even though Isabel can't stand her, the truth is they are quite similar. Rokan is very human; I like the way Leah Cypess didn't make him overly handsome or overly powerful. He surprisingly very human with all the doubts and flaws.

If you like shapeshifter like me and had a thing for a strong kickass main character who don't need men to rescue her every five seconds, you'll love this book.

Lynossa

I will giveaway a copy of this book, the details will follow later!

Shapeshifter: Mistwood by Leah Cypess