Deception by Teri Terry

Dark Matter, book 2. Orchard Books, 2018. ISBN 9781408341742
(Age: 13+) Recommended. Themes: Science fiction. Epidemics. Dystopian fiction. Following on immediately from Contagion, the first book in the series, readers are swept into the British countryside as an epidemic sweeps the country. Shay is convinced that she is the carrier of the virus and without telling Kai, has left Shetland to give herself up to the authorities. Kai follows her trail, desperate to find her and faces danger on the way as the survivors of the plague are hunted down by vigilantes and the secret service.
This is an adrenaline fuelled story that is fast paced and very exciting. Told in short snappy chapters from three viewpoints, Shay, Kai and Callie, recount their stories and give different viewpoints of what is happening. Shay comes into her own, as she learns to use her towering intellect and new powers, while Kai's determination and skills of survival are wonderful. Some more survivors, including Spike and Freja, are introduced and enrich the plot, giving insight into how people are coping with the epidemic.
Readers with a bent for science will also find the descriptions of antimatter and matter fascinating as Terry gives an explanation of the origin of the virus and the creation of the survivor's strange powers. There is much to ponder about the misuse of scientific experimentation even if the end result might provide cures for diseases.
There are some unexpected twists and turns and conclusion which will keep the reader enthralled and waiting for the next book in the series. Both Contagion and Deception would engage anyone who likes easy to read but totally engrossing stories.
Pat Pledger