'Nobody talks about the strange happenings in Maimsbury. No one speaks of the hooded figures glimpsed in the woods, nor the children's game that went so horribly wrong. But most of all, nobody dares whisper their doubts about the river they have worshipped for centuries.
Like everyone in Maimsbury, Gorse is used to the sacrifices made every spring to the River Yeelde. The life of a farm animal - in return for a year of plenty - seems a fair trade. That is, until a tragedy leads Gorse to a blood-curdling discovery.
Because this year is a Brim Year, and after giving so much, the river needs more than an animal's life to sate its thirst...'
Life revolves around the seasons and ensuring that there is enough harvest, and in Maimsbury, this includes keeping the river happy. It's a ceremony performed annually but as the book unfolds, we learn that there is a much darker undercurrent to the ceremony. Whilst traditions and folklore change over the course of time, there are some elements that remain steadfast, but just aren't spoken about. It is left to the chosen few to carry out the darker side of things but are they doing the best for the village or simply failing to acknowledge the darkness of their actions?
The River Yeedle takes centre stage as the main character in this book and feels very much like a living entity. It creates a darkness that is brilliantly chilling and will make readers wary of rivers! I'm certainly pleased I read the book in the sunshine and not on a dark evening!
As the book progresses, and the events of the plot unfold, the full darkness of the plot reveals itself and characters are forced to decide whether to stand up against events or comply with those directly involved. I won't give any more than that away, but it's safe to say that the plot gripped.
Publishing on the 11th September, Thirst is a thought-provoking book and will definitely raise questions. It will make a perfect read for anyone looking to bridge the MG/YA gap and will be enjoyed by fans of Phil Hickes and Dan Smith.
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