Review: The Newstead Project by Melanie Schulz

The Newstead Project is Melanie Schulz’s debut novel and the first installment in a trilogy. This is a fascinating premise for a story, and after reading, I’m curious where it’s all going and eagerly await the next book in the series.

Ms. Schulz’s writing pulled me in from the first chapter, and enough was held back to keep me racing to read more. I was right there at Newstead with Joel, felt a drop in my stomach when Joel made the wrong moves at school and became an instant outcast, experienced Fred’s and the intimidation Rachel endured from the Newsteaders as well as her strange living arrangements in the trailer, knowing she might be on the move at any moment.  I felt the intense connection between Joel and Rachel even though there were times the speed of it seemed unrealistic. By the end, many of my questions were answered and new ones had formed. I was on the edge of my seat when Joel put his plan into action during the war games. The descriptions of the man-who-was-not-a-man were terrific; I experienced his effect right along with Joel and Rachel.

A few critiques: The alternating POVs were necessary to the story; however, it wasn’t always apparent whose voice it was at the beginning of each chapter. As a reader, I don’t want to be ejected from the story and left to figure out whose POV I’m reading. This book is in need of a tighter edit. My copy was an ARC, so hopefully the released version won’t be rife with errors. I was disappointed more of Joel’s experience at Newstead wasn’t covered. While there was interaction between the students, there was minimal adult interaction even when Joel was skipping classes. Rachel seemed to be an intelligent young woman, and though it was convenient to the plot, it boggled my mind that she accepted certain circumstances without pushing for answers.

Despite a few plot holes and the need for a thorough edit, I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait to find out where Joel and Rachel are headed. The plot was very creative, and I look forward to where Ms. Schulz will be taking us next.

3.75 stars rounded to 4