The Literary Melting Pot: December 2013

Blurb:

Katrina’s still haunted by her encounter with the Headless Horseman - the night he beckoned to her. Now he has risen again, slashing heads and terrorizing the quiet countryside.

Her only joy during this dismal darkness comes when Ichabod Crane, a gorgeous young man from Connecticut, moves to Sleepy Hollow and their attraction turns to romance.

When the Horseman marks Ichabod as his next victim, Katrina, despite dangerous efforts to save him, sees no other choice than for them to flee.

But the Horseman awaits. Now it’s up to her to sever the horror and alter the Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

Review:

This was the second novel that I've read by Dax Varley and once again, she's blown me away. The writing style is intelligent, easy to follow, and conducive with the setting. Although this novel is based around the time of the Revolutionary War, the characters are relatable and very entertaining. I was completely enthralled from the first page, and on the edge of my seat as the mystery unraveled.

After rereading Irving's tale, which was actually influenced by an Irish legend known as The Dullahan, I thoroughly enjoyed the route the author took with her version of the Headless Horseman and the inhabitants of Sleepy Hollow. There are several noticeable influences from other versions of the classic, but that does not take away from this story at all. Varley has turned the incorrigible Katrina into a loveable heroine, the lanky Ichabod into eye candy, and has manifested the Headless Horseman into a real being that is feared by all. The supporting characters are compelling as well, making this novel flow with incredible ease.

As expected, this author has done justice to a tale that has haunted many for centuries! This novel is romantic, scary, thrilling, and even comical at times. A story for YA and adults, I highly recommend this book!