Review of Isola di Squalo by Heidi Peltier

Synopsis:
On the small Mediterranean island of Isola di Squalo, an ancient legend binds the fate of the royal Delmar family directly to the peace and protection of the island. The consequence of turmoil is the return of a giant shark who ultimately attacks one of the royal family. Seventeen-year-old American Dylan Murphy is thrilled to learn that a life-long dream has been fulfilled when he is accepted to a local university's shark study program on Isola di Squalo. He has hopes of diving with the Great White Shark, and leaning from one of the leading scientists in the field. Unfortunately, in an early run-in with the island's princess, Terra Delmar whose greatest wish is to terminate the program, lands him with the unsavory task of befriending her and convincing her to allow the scientists to stay. Dylan scoffs at the Delmar legend until he comes face-to-face with the shark. When a life-threatning injury sends him home, he realizes he has fallen in love with the island and it's queen, Terra. The return of the shark can only mean that she and her island are in danger, and though he knows he and Terra can never be together, he feels he needs to return to save them both. (Taken from Goodreads).

Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
This book was one of the best books I have read all year. Apart from the suspense and drama (which was great) it had a tad of romance to, unfortunately the romance was a bit toe-curing in places but I think that is mainly personal preference. I could really relate to the characters, especially Dylan and could easily see the situation through their eyes. I loved the quick and frequent bits of drama which kept me engaged throughout the book, the thought of the imminent attack of the shark stayed with me throughout the story. If I could suggest any improvements however, I would change the title, once amid the book the title seems fitting but I am not sure it would draw in many punters as it is not very catching. Having said that this is a amazing book and I can't wait for the next installment.

Characters:
Dylan Murphy -

Description of Character: A seemingly normal boy from Texas that has a dream of becoming a marine biologist and studying sharks. He is a very relatable character due to his frequent complaints and acting abnormally when in the presence of the Princess. 

Review of Character: I love this character and the author has been able to portray him in a way that shows the different sides of this temper. He says a lot of humorous things which just makes me love him more, a great character written in a great way.

Terra Delmar -

Description of Character: At first a feisty Princess but slowly turns into loving and considerate Queen that seems to have no selfish aura about her. Turning into a venerable woman is only the start of problems with Terra, she has to worry about an oil rig threatening the island, an arranged marriage and the attack of the shark which could happen any time.

Review of Character: I praise the author for basically turning Terra from a girl into a woman with out totally inventing a new character which would have ruined the story for me. I love the fact that her emotions are portrayed through her eyes which, again gives her venerability. At the end of the story she evolves in to a strong and powerful woman which is just the icing on the cake.

*Supporting characters not listed