Nicki Thorton is not a particularly popular author in Poland. So far, only one of her books has been translated - The Last Chance Hotel . The debut novel is worth recommending, but an attentive reader will surely notice many similarities to the works of JK Rowling.
About magic in the Muggle world
The translation of the novel was done by Piotr W. Cholewa, a specialist in his profession, so I was calm about the translation from the very beginning. When it comes to the presented world, created by the author of The Last Chance Hotel , it must be admitted that the plot is addictive. The reader, who receives the book in hand, can be sure that he will not tear himself away from it quickly. However, I have doubts whether the story actually told is dedicated to children or maybe teenagers? Zielona Sowa Publishing has classified the novel as suitable for 9+ readers. I am not entirely convinced that the problem of homicide (including: investigation, traces, clues, accusations, past regrets) is appropriate for this age group. However, the final decision rests with the parents.
Bring it, take it out, sweep it
The main character of the Last Chance Hotel is – as the reader learns – the hero accused of the murder of Dr. Thallomius, a special guest, invited for a special occasion by the hosts. Seth, because that is his name, must now face not only culinary recipes, but also accusations from all sides. Initially, he can only trust his cat, Czarnocka, who – as it turns out during the plot – can talk. The young hero, so far unaware of the presence of magic in his life, must understand that now a lot depends on magic. Seth wants to learn the truth about his parents, free himself from the hosts who treat him badly and … clear himself of the murder charges.
Similarities to Potter
It is impossible not to notice the similarities to the most famous wizard in history, Harry Potter, reading even a short note on the cover of the novel. Here is another young wizard, not feeling well in the “family” home, discovers the magical world and then his life changes. The idea of creating the names of supporting characters at the Last Chance Hotel is also similar . Readers who know JK Rowling’s books well will no doubt notice how strongly Thorton was inspired by her work. By the way, this year another part of the novel was published (in English so far), in which Seth’s fate continues.
But all in all, a nice cover
I like the idea of the Zielona Sowa Publishing House for this book. On the bookstore cover, potential readers can see a picture of a house against the backdrop of a huge moon sitting on a branch of a cat tree, and underneath a cook – probably the main character, Seth. Despite the fact that this situation is completely made up, because we are not presented with such a perspective in the plot (the action mostly takes place in the building), I think that such an idea is really interesting. The chapters are very short – there are as many as 50, and only 348 pages. At the beginning of each of them there is a graphic with a house, a bit clunky (after all, it is a two-story apartment with a turret). Unfortunately, there are no illustrations inside, so we have to imagine our heroes on our own.
