Positively and dynamically different, this debut provokes and challenges your interest from the first few pages. Although classed as fantasy, it doesn't feel as though it should be exclusively pigeon-holed as such, there are so many things that are recognisable, it’s entirely possible that this could be just a few years into our future. While being enveloped in authenticity, an edgy and intimidating new world is actually laid bare before your very eyes. The provocative fiery ending doesn't neatly tie all the loose ends together, a sneaky few are left to burrow, to retreat, to steal away… leaving the doors wide open for a sequel to this stimulating and tensely moving novel. ~ Liz Robinson
'The next JK Rowling' (Today Programme, USA) 'An astounding achievement. I can't wait for the second book! *****' - Reader Review 'A great read for those who enjoyed The Hunger Games and Divergent. *****' - Reader Review ____________________ Rose Elmsworth has a secret. For eighteen years, the world has been divided into the magically Gifted and the non-magical Ashkind, but Rose's identity is far more dangerous. At fifteen, she has earned herself a place alongside her father in the Department, a brutal law-enforcement organisation run by the Gifted to control the Ashkind. But now an old enemy is threatening to start a catastrophic war, and Rose faces a challenging test of her loyalties. How much does she really know about her father's past? How far is the Department willing to go to keep the peace? And, if the time comes, will Rose choose to protect her secret, or the people she loves? ____________________ Further praise for Helena Coggan and The Catalyst 'The Catalyst is a complicated, rich world of magic and danger . . . Both fantastical and startlingly relevant and contemporary, it's tense, exciting, engaging and has at its heart a central character whose incredibly personal story becomes caught up in huge battles and some even bigger ideas.' - Claire North, author of The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August 'A pulsing, labyrinthine, emotionally visceral plot' - Metro 'A phenomenal achievement . . . assured, frightening, action-packed' - Observer
