The Children’s Book Review | July 31, 2016
These Ruthless Deeds
Written by Tarun Shanker and Kelly Zekas
Age Range: 14 and up
Paperback: 313 pages
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends (2017)
ISBN: 978-01250127952
What to expect: Historical, Romance, Fantasy, Superheroes
Tarun Shanker and Kelly Zekas are back with another exciting installment of Victorian super heroes in THESE RUTHLESS DEEDS.
Evelyn is home in England, 1883. She’s convinced that if she can use her powers to help other gifted people, she might soothe herself over the loss of her beloved sister. When she is approached by the Society, a group dedicated to helping mankind, she’s nervous. They seem to have a retinue of powered people just like herself on staff – but what are their aims? She begins to help them in their supposed crusade to keep the citizens of the world safe, putting her powers to good use. In return, the Society repairs almost every aspect of her life. Her parents are wealthy again, and her reputation is no longer in question. Eligible men are offering themselves to her, and suddenly she’s the belle of the ball. But when she asks too many questions, the Society’s goals begin to unravel in to a lurid, despicable game. Evelyn and her friends must fight to find the truth, even if it means losing everything she’s ever wanted.
THESE RUTHLESS DEEDS is an exhilarating and intricate novel that combines two very different things into one sharp narrative: super powers and the Victorian Era. They are the two things you never knew you needed thrown together. But trust me, you do.
Jane Austen fans will adore the rules and etiquette Evelyn and her friends must abide by. But the story is so much more captivating with the supernatural element. The stakes are intense. Not only is Evelyn choosing between the eligible and kind Mr. Kent and the brooding, handsome Mr. Braddock (as well as hosting the season’s latest Ball), but she is also solving a mystery and fighting off evil-doers while making it home by tea-time. A truly fascinating mix that keeps readers hooked from page one to the heart-stopping end.
Zekas and Shanker are a talented writing duo who capture the voice of the Victorian era while still letting spunky and brave Evelyn shine through. She’s a heroine we’ll gladly follow on her dangerous liaisons.
Highly recommended with a spot of tea.
Available Here:
About the Authors
Mild-mannered assistant by day, milder-mannered writer by night, Tarun Shanker is a New York University Graduate currently living in Los Angeles. His idea of paradise is a place where kung fu movies are projected on clouds, David Bowie’s music fills the air, and chai tea flows freely from fountains.
Kelly Zekas, a New York University graduate, writes, acts, and reads in New York City. YA is her absolute favorite thing on earth (other than cupcakes), and she has spent many hours crying over fictional deaths. She also started reading Harlequin romances at a possibly too-early age (twelve?) and still loves a good historical romance.
Together they have written These Vicious Masks and its sequel These Ruthless Deeds.
These Ruthless Deeds, by Tarun Shanker and Kelly Zekas was reviewed by Denise Mealy. Discover more books like These Ruthless Deeds by following along with our reviews and articles tagged with Supernatural Powers Books, Victorian, and Young Adult Fiction.
