There is a warning on the reverse of my copy that does state not suitable for young children and I agree with that. I am not a parent myself but this is quite dark (literally) and graphically violent in places it also deals with the shadier side of the human character most of the way through. I would not want my youngest nephew (9) to read this, pretty sure my elder one (13) could cope with it though, obviously it is personal choice.
As the main character is 16 I presume this book is aimed at teenagers and young adults, I am neither yet enjoyed it thouroughly, although not my normal Sci-Fi style book to read.
I am glad I bought this book on impulse whilst on holiday. It is a great story line, strong characters throughout, well paced, conspiracy theories, this book has the lot. I found myself lost in a world within a world, with more twists and turns than a country lane. I read it in three sittings. It is believeable throughout and in many places it is possible to see the world we live in now turning into Ash Harbour.