In a time where so many stories carry the “mortal and immortal” element, The Pace distinguishes itself by knotting two topics that have been debated and constantly separated: science and X spiritual themes. Who said both couldn’t get along? Certainly not Shorts, who has gotten them together in order to create a novel that involve elements like: suspense, mystery and romance.  The story’s narrated by Sophie after moving to California with her mother. There she meets Weston and thanks to this her life and “existence” take a new meaning. Sophie’s character is molded in a delightful way since there is a truthful balance in her personality.  Unlike other “heroines” we are finding in this subdivision, she is decided, says what she thinks, not afraid to ask for explanations or giving ultimatums, but most surprisingly, she knows when to stop feeling sorry and move on.  On the other side, we have Weston, a handsome boy, intelligent, adorable and does not keep a single secret, but several. As a vivid reader, I could appreciate that a pattern I have been observing in this category is broken and the author creates something new, interesting and captivating. For instance, the couple gets to know themselves in a peculiar situation, not on scholastic environment since each attend different academic grades; Sophie studies with an online program and Weston goes to college (not Biology class … Yes!). Readers will have the opportunity to see the relationship blossom, and by this I mean Shorts does not exclude the couple’s dating process and does not limit it to the main character’s room (Thank You!).  The complexity of Weston’s emotions towards Sophie is much emotionally deep, tender and loving than just attempting to: eat her, sacrifice her or kill her. This is the character’s charm and bright.  These factors, instead of making the story less interesting, can be outstanding and involve readers in its mystery that will be unveiled further on.  In order to know who Weston is, how can he be an “immortal” and what role Sophie plays in this complex situation, make sure you read The Pace, a novel where science, love, destiny and time pace are tied in a magnificent way.

 

Although the story does not have educational elements, there are two aspects worth to be mentioned: the author is a professional educator. The way Sophie takes her academic studies and the reason for this change enables youngsters to see that education’s not limited and there are different choices to achieve them.