Review: Six Days by Philip Webb

For Cass, the life of a 'scav' is all she’s ever known – scavenging what’s left of London in search of a precious relic no-one, not even her new Russian masters, has ever seen. 

But when two survivors from another time show up, claiming they hold the key to the whereabouts of the missing ‘artefact’, scavving will never be the same again. They have six days to find it before their world will come to an end. 

Six Days is a book that I would recommend for any dystopian lover. To me, this book seemed like a younger version of INSIDE OUT by Maria V. Snyder. That's not a bad thing though, while the concepts have a little similarity, the execution is totally unique and fantastically absorbing.

I have to admit that I struggled to get into this, maybe it's because I was halfway through another book and couldn't get it off my mind, but I found that for the first few chapters I had to will myself to read on. That's just a warning though, because about three or four chapters in, the story gets really interesting and after that, I had to will myself to put it down.

What I really liked about this book is that it has that childish vibe, with the adventure and the fantasy, but also appeals to young adult and adult readers, with themes of war, a sweet romance and a little bit of gore. I seem to remember one small swear word, but it was nothing offensive. The characters also appeal to all ages; Cass is rough and tough but also a bit vulnerable, traits that will appeal to older readers, but shes also brave and adventurous, which will appeal to kids. There is a cute romance between Cass and Peyto, which is completely suitable for younger readers but also adorable!

The story is really interesting and absorbing and had me staring at the page and on my edge of the seat, I liked how there was a lot going on but it was very simple and easy to follow, never confusing.

My main issue, as mentioned before, was that it took me a while to get into it. Also, while I really liked this book, I would never say that I loved it.

All in all, a great read suitable for readers of all ages. The story is executed so fantastically that I was laughing one minute and gripping the edge of my seat the next! Despite a few pacing problems, this book is pretty good!

Overall rating: B-

Stand alone/series: Stand alone

UK Release: July 4th 2011

Publisher: Chicken House

Book obtained via: Sent by Chicken House in exchange for an honest review (many thanks to Claire!)