I loved Scott's narrative voice, he is an utterly realistic 16 year old. The world in which he lives is brought to vivid life with Kim Curran's descriptive, relatable writing style. Scott's life is utterly normal, parents who argue constantly and a younger sister that out shines him in nearly every way, that is until Scott discovers he can `shift' quite by accident.
The portrayal of the actual time travel or `shifting' in this book was fascinating, well thought out and developed. The consequences of a time shift clearly shown within the narrative, even the slightest change has a ripple effect and this aspect was a very clever inclusion. The concept of not appreciating what you have until it's gone is a consequence that I had not previously considered with the thought of time travel, it is generally the thought of getting back what had previously been lost.
The limitations on the `shifting' ability added depth to the plot and provided a means to direct the story in a number of surprising ways. The use of secret government departments, their opposing group and their interactions maintained the action alongside a sense of tension as the plot unfolded. The plot in itself provided a number of unexpected twists. The use of power and how it corrupts as well as the lengths some people go to in order to acquire such power is chilling in its portrayal.
While I enjoyed this book I have to say that I wasn't expecting it to be quite so gory. For those of you that know me you will already know that I have a vivid imagination and can't cope with too much gore. So I have a warning for you - what ever you do - Don't read this book while your eating breakfast, especially the part with the cats. Seriously you won't be able to look at a cat the same way again.