Shift


Young Adult - Fantasy - General
288 Pages
Reviewed on 02/25/2025
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

In Shift, a YA fantasy by T.A. Styles, Eric Long has spent his life protecting his family, but when his wife dies, he begins to learn things about her he never knew. Those things relate to their son, Caz, a boy who is suddenly starting to experience power. Caz is an astral shapeshifter, but his powers are a double-edged sword – he can protect or bring his family grave danger, especially when a rogue shifter appears on the scene. Alec Sway is hunting them and the only way to fight is to hone his powers. Caz relocates to a sanctuary called Transform, where he learns to handle his powers. And not before time. Alec is getting closer and Eric must make a decision. What will he sacrifice to keep his family safe? Is Caz powerful enough to fight Alec? Or will Alec bring destruction to their lives?

Shift by T.A. Styles is something quite different and a thoroughly enjoyable read. It brings a new dimension to the genre, a unique shifter tale that veers from the norm and offers an exciting, action-packed story that will hold your attention all the way through. The characters are well-developed, and you gradually learn more about them as the story unfolds. Plenty of twists and turns keep the action going, and the ending indicates there may be a sequel on the way. The action is non-stop in this gripping tale, and the crisp dialog and descriptive nature of the writing help you feel the story as you read. I enjoyed this book; it was fresh, and I hope there’s a sequel on the way.

Liz Konkel

Shift by T.A. Styles follows a devoted father as he protects his children when secrets emerge about his wife’s past. A father of three, Eric has struggled since losing his wife to raise his children as a single parent but he would do anything for them. His oldest son Caz begins exhibiting the incredible ability to astral shapeshift, which will come in handy when a rogue shapeshifter threatens his family. Eric takes the children to a special sanctuary - called Transform - created to keep shapeshifters safe. Caz receives support to properly harness his abilities. Under the guidance of a mentor connected to their family’s past, Caz learns everything he needs as he knows if he wants to keep his family safe from danger.

Despite the action, shifters, and threats, the story still feels grounded in a familiar reality with engaging characters who simply want to keep their loved ones safe. T.A. Styles uses the presence of Eric’s wife as an important part of the story with her guidance being what gives him strength and her influence is felt even when she’s gone. The world of shifters is built with suspense as the secrets from Sarah’s past surface and they meet other characters that are capable of extraordinary things. The concept of ‘shift’ is explored in different ways throughout with it being literal for those that can change shape. However, it is also a metaphor for the paths we take in life that shift to who we become. Family is an important theme seen throughout as Eric wants to keep his children safe while Caz’s powers enable him to do just that. This creates an interesting dynamic between them as they struggle with the fate of the family threatened by a rogue shapeshifter bent on revenge. The three siblings have a sweet relationship as they conspire together and this love and devotion drives this family to protect each other despite the danger heading their way. Shift blends action, family, and coming-of-age into an engaging story that makes for a fun read.

Pikasho Deka

Shift is a young adult thriller by T.A. Styles. After barely surviving a bridge collapse, Eric Long is more determined than ever to protect his three sons. With his wife Sarah's death, Eric found himself the sole caretaker of his children. However, when his eldest son, Caz, starts showing extraordinary shapeshifting abilities after the bridge incident, it turns Eric's entire worldview upside down. He finds the motivational clinic Transform, headed by the charismatic Martin Lewis, but soon discovers that Transform is instead a sanctuary for gifted shapeshifters like Caz. As Caz learns to master his abilities, a ferocious shapeshifter named Alec Sway crosses Eric's path, warning him of dire consequences for the acts of Sarah's father. Will Eric find a way to save his family from the deadly wrath of Alec Sway?

Shift is a supernatural drama flavored with action, suspense, mystery, and intrigue. This is as much a tale about family as a superhero origin story. Author T.A. Styles develops the plot deliberately, taking time to set up the characters and infusing tension that permeates the narrative. From the very first page, the premise and the mystery hook you in, and it's a wild thrill ride from beginning to end. The dynamic between Eric and his family and friends forms the pulse of the story. Caz, Dakota, and Sam feel like real-life siblings, and it's easy to become invested in their storylines. The last third of the book had me on the edge of my seat, and I think it will be the same for other readers. Recommended to paranormal fans!