Reviews

“I don’t read many novels but I found I could not put this one down.”
Graham

I was lucky enough to have Beyond the Valley recommended to me on my recent visit to the UK, and as I was on holiday, was able to binge-read to my heart's content; I finished it in a day and I already miss the characters! I see from other reviews that there will be a sequel, and my only hope that it is soon, and available in the States, so I don't have to wait until my next visit here to find out what happens to Sissy, Joel, and the others.

The characters are thoughtfully and well-drawn out, and the plot is immediately intriguing. Joel and Sissy are teens who, along with their family, are living in some sort of post-society collapse, and though it doesn't seem terribly futuristic - there are farms and families and relationships that feel very warm and familiar and current - they face certain trials that aren't common in our world today. It is a rare literary find, in that the author has somehow managed a rare feat in presenting prescient characters with extrasensory abilities, combined with modern day relationships, all while giving them some old-fashioned, quaint mannerisms, and it is done seamlessly. The story was left on a cliff-hanger of sorts, and I am so looking forward to what happens next, at the family Meet.
Caitlin

“Beyond the Valley, written by Veronica Wood , is an immersive futuristic epic that will resonate with young and older adults alike as they navigate their way through the colourful and compelling storyline. Woven around the lives and dreams of two teenage siblings, an undercurrent of extra sensory perception adds another dimension that will keep you hooked until the last page. I'm looking forward to the sequel.”
Sheila

"I really enjoyed this book, it has a bit of everything you could want in a great read! I loved spending time in this world and hope there is a sequel on the way.”
Susannah

“I thoroughly enjoyed this book and didn’t want it to end. The story tells of a family living on an isolated farm in a dystopian world and the frustration of the two main characters Sissy 18 and Joel 15, realising they want more from their dreary lives. Joel runs away to join a Circus and has adventures on the way and Sissy experiences a brief romance which gives her more self worth and assentiveness and the discovery of her extrasensory abilities.

The book has an exciting and imaginative storyline, very well written and researched. The ending hints of a sequel which I very much hope will be publish soon.

Beyond The Valley would appeal to young adults and older readers.”
Jessica

“Veronica Wood's first published novel 'Beyond the Valley' has a first-rate storyline and her writing style flows effortlessly! Her characters are brought to life and grow through Veronica's accurate observations of human nature and emotions. I was taken on a journey of discovery where Veronica's vivid imagination made me believe she had actually travelled to the unknown places, set in the future, and had witnessed first-hand all the events that followed.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and hope there will be a second book published very soon continuing the journey - if not a trilogy!”
Jill

"A cracking adventure story, which I devoured in one go. I found it fun and fast-paced, focusing on the two major characters Joel and Sissy and all their shenanigans in a futuristic world. Well worth a read!"
Amazon Customer

"An absorbing adventure story in a futuristic setting. The young adult protagonists should appeal to a YA readership, as well as older readers familiar with the sci-fi and fantasy classics of (e.g.) John Wyndham, Alan Garner and John Christopher."
Myron E