Book Review: Arson

Arson by Estevan Vega

Released: May 4, 2010
Publisher: Tate Publishing
Pages: 318
Rating: 4 stars

Arson Gable feels like a freak. He can create fire. He never asked for it. He never wanted it. But he can't shut it off. Before now, three things were true: he both loved and despised his grandmother; his life was going nowhere; and he was alone. But when a strange girl—who feels more normal behind a mask than inside her own skin—moves in next door, Arson hopes to find something he's never had: purpose. Using what he fears most about himself, Arson must face his consuming past and confront the nightmare that is his present as he walks the fine line between boy and monster. Dark, moody, and breathtakingly relevant, Arson, the chilling chronicle of an isolated boy with unimaginable ability, is sure to ignite the hearts and minds of a new generation.

Arson was an intriguing and original story. The cover was what initially drew me to this novel. It was so creepy, yet really hard to look away from. The writing was spectacular. The way Vega worded things just blew me away. At times, I felt like I was in Arson’s head, hearing what he hears, seeing what he sees, and thinking what he thinks. I love that aspect in books - makes it a more enjoyable read.

Arson was a strange and complex character. He lived a very unique and lonely life. He lives with his grandma, who mentally isn’t all there, has no friends, and can create fire, which naturally makes him feel like a freak. Then comes Emery, who starts out as some strange, masked girl moving in next door, but soon becomes someone Arson finally can connect with and confide in. I loved Emery’s sassy character and her ability to not let anything or anyone ruin her mood.

Vega did a fantastic job writing this intense and mysterious novel. The plot was creative and the characters were well-developed. I can’t wait to read more from Vega.