Like Falling by Jaden Wilkes

Like Falling by Jaden Wilkes 2.5 STARS

Synopsis:Sarah Miller is known as a dreamer in her stifling Mennonite community, but she's hiding something from them all. A simple wish to avoid the strictly enforced life path expected of her...early marriage, babies, and work on the farm.
She wants more, so much more. Education, travel, love...sex...
A chance at university hundreds of miles away is too much to pass up, so she follows her best friend Naomi and decides to take her future into her own hands.
She had no idea this decision would change her in ways she never imagined, will the one person she falls in love with hold her back from everything she ever wanted?

* I received an ARC from netgalley for an honest review

**this novel is  contains depictions of graphic sex, drug use and underage drinking. This is not a stand alone, it is a cliffhanger, the first of three books

Overall: I struggled with rating this one. There are some things that I really liked about this book, and a good amount of stuff I hated. The cliffhanger isnt terrible, (im not dying to read the next) but leaves a little something to be desired. As much as I like Naomi, Nic, and Tyr (and Eric) I actually dont care for Sarah the main character, which is problematic. I also struggled freqeuntly with the constant reminder that Sarah is from a Mennonite society. I almost felt like the author put too many issues in this book. Theres drug abuse and addiction, alcoholism, religion, teacher/student complex, sexual deviancy, racism, money problems...I mean, essentially, the author took every problem and stuffed into one book. Admittedly, these issues are frequently tied to one another, but I just wasnt a huge fan of the authors style in writing this and depicting these issues. It felt quite contrived at times, and awkward (when it shouldnt have been) the dialogue at times felt all wrong too. The things I did like...I liked that the love story grew over time, that each person made mistakes, that each character had new and learning experiences, which felt raw and genuine. This isnt a feel good romance novel but the series could be good. Ill just have to wait for the next book to make that call for sure. 


Cover: Pretty and alluring
Rating: R
Overall: Genrally an interesting read.
Characters: Sarah, Tyr, Adam. Nic and Naomi
Page Turner: Depends on the reader...
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: If you liked Metamorphosis yes 
Book Boyfriend:  Tyr.
Genre: New Adult
Sex Scenes:  Yes, lots.
Setting: A Vancouver University

Alex Meraz as Tyr

Plot: Overall I thought the plot was enticing, I was intrigued by this plot, but unfortunately, as I stated above I think it missed the mark a little. I found the general ideas in pieces to be interesting, and I liked each sub-part, but as a book in full, I just couldnt get into it. Half the book felt contrived, forced and awkward, I didnt feel anything for the character. I was confused by the naivety and innocence and the quick switch that Sarah seemed to go through. I think that pieces of this book could have been cut, and I would have had the same effect. I did not like the Adam situation, the entire time I read it, I felt creeped out. (unlik slammed...) I didnt FEEL anything for Adam except that I wanted him to go away. I did really enjoy Tyr and Sarahs relationship though and as that was explored I got more interested in the novel, but by the end of the book, I was disappointed. After so much growth it seemed like the characters were dependent, jealous, and immature. I ended up giving the book 2.5 Stars because I ended up liking the last 20-30 percent of the book (though like might be too strong) I was starting to like the relationship and the direction, as well as the possible issues that arise from Sarahs family, and Eric. 

Characters:

Aly Michalka as Sarah

Sarah Miller- I start out liking Sarah, though I feel no connection to her. But as I continued down her journey I became annoyed. For someone with a lack of experience and exposure to the world, completely naive and new, I understood that she was awkward, embarrassed easily, and not comfortable in her own skin. HOWEVER, those things dont override common sense. The author made it seem like Sarah was able to pick up on the social cues, and meld into the norm, she was supposed to be observant and intelligent, yet she didnt know her best friend was a lesbian (okay fine, I get that, Mennonites dont quite agree with the life, and could be hidden) BUT seriously the Adam thing, KILLED this story for me. Her stupidity and willingness to go along with his way of doing things was EXTREMELY irritating. Perhaps as an outsider I had more perspective, sure, but honestly, I just hated this story line. But I started to like Sarah again when she started to get to know Tyr and Eric. Her relationship and openness with Naomi was also interesting. But again, ones willingness to try new things and throw caution to the wind, without repercussions could only go on so long. She drank a lot her first time ever, but didnt get sick or feel sick the next night REALLY?! Its the simple things that irritated me. 

James Franco as Adam 

Tyr I loved. I think his role in this book actually saved it. I only liked it because of him. His loyalty and devotion were so beautiful. And relate able. The idea that family comes before a woman makes total sense to me. I didnt like his dependence and jealousy that appeared out of nowhere, but I looked pass it, because I felt like he was overall such a great guy. Down to Earth, kind, a good friend, and reliable. 

Naomi- I liked her! She was fiesty and made for some entertaining scenes. HOWEVER, the dialogue felt off between her and Sarah at times. 

Eric--I liked Eric as well, this character felt normal, and interesting, I look forward to getting to know him.

Adam- I hate him. As an author if she was going for creepy, and weird she did a great job. I will be happy to be rid of him...If that wasnt her intention, hm...Im really sorry. 

Bet in the Dark by Rachel Higginson

Bet in the Dark by Rachel Higginson 3.5 STARS

Synopsis: All Ellie Harris wanted was a life of her own.
In a shortsighted decision, she follows her high school boyfriend to college, only to get cheated on and then dumped. And to add insult to injury her overprotective family is suddenly clinging to her again, fighting to control every part of her life.
Bad luck follows her hasty decision and when her roommate steals her identity and leaves town, Ellie is left to clean up a gigantic mess.
Fin Hunter insists Ellie owes him seven thousand dollars from an online poker game and he is determined to get it from her. Determined to keep her family out of her life, Ellie agrees to work for Fin in his illegal online poker operation. He’s given her six weeks to pay off the debt.
Soon sparks are flying between them and the only thing keeping her from falling for him is the debt she still owes and the money she doesn’t have.
At the end either Ellie will have to pay the mistaken debt or bet in the dark that her feelings for Fin will be worth more than the money.

Overall--When I started this book I was enthralled, captured, and couldnt stop reading. Rachel Higginson is an amazing author, no doubt. Her ability to write her characters with so much personality and depth is inspiring. After reading the Star Crossed Series I was obsessed with her books. I honestly REALLY enjoyed this book. Aside from grammatical/spelling errors, the story was actually really good. HOWEVER--to me what makes a story great is the ending, thats what usually pushes me to a four (maybe a five) but in this case, I was really let down by the ending. In fact the last 5-10 percent actually made me upset with the book. I was let down. Disappointed. BUT if you are looking for a young adult like college aged romance, then this book is for you! 

Chris Pine as Fin Hunter

Cover: Captured my attention!
Rating: PG13
Overall: Pretty Good
Characters: Fin, Beckett, Ellie, Britte, Grayson, Lennox
Page Turner: No
Series Cont.? No
Recommend: If you are looking for a captivating sexy romance 
Book Boyfriend:  Fin
Genre: Young Adult/New Adult
Sex Scenes: No
Setting: Wisconsin College

Plot- The plot here is really interesting. I was captivated immediately and completely intrigued by the premise. The first scene is quite amazing and sets the book up nicely. The interaction between the characters, their personality, everything about this book screamed amazing. UNTIL the end. 

Jessica Stroup as Britte

There was immense tension and build up through out the book, of the characters, the bet, the payback, the brothers, her family, everything. And it was so ANTI-CLIMATIC. I was so disappointed that there was little drama in the end. If any quite honestly. Considering the length of the book, and the age of the characters I was more than disappointed. Without giving too much away, Ill just say that considering all the fraught that Ellie went through there was absolutely nothing to come from it by the end and I guess that mimicks real life a little (we build things up, only to realize its not as high of a jump as we thought) but I read to escape reality, so I was looking for a HEA that had a little bit more drama. BUT if you like that sort of thing...then this is for you. There isnt much drama, or heat at the end, but it is a HEA. 

Characters -- I really liked the dynamic characters, which as usual the author did a fantasic job of including everyone, giving them a personality, and creating an entire family/world of people that are realistic and have their own personalities. Ms. Higginson always has lots of characters in her book, and she does not disappoint in ensuring her readers understand who everyone is, what their personality is, and their relationships with the other characters. 

This is my Ellie Maiara Walsh 

In this current book, I am interested in finding out whether there will be another book, this one between Britte and Beckett. Im not a fan of how Britte described Beckett and their odd relationship but I internally hope they go somewhere and that the author gives their relationship some justice :-) 

I loved Britte, her quirky responses to Ellie are fun, and interesting. Honestly the back and forth between the characters is realistic and quite entertaining. I found myself laughing out loud. She was a good, strong supporting character. 

Ellie, wow, she is fiesty. Frankly though, while I really liked Ellie's personality, I was somewhat confused. She is supposed to be naive, innocent, and inexperienced, a goody two shoes, with a lack of a back bone. However, suddenly she becomes quite brazen, and hands out quips and sarcasm to the hottest guy on campus. Her 180 was a bit surprising, and odd, but perhaps thats always her persona she just hid it well prior to Fin. (considering her best friend is Britte, I could see that! but her dress code, and virginity, could say otherwise...) I was also a little taken aback by the ex boyfriend she was with for three years and their lack of physical relationship at her age. I dont know, it felt like she was supposed to be more mature than some of her traits implied. 

Hayden Christianson as Lennox

Nonetheless, I liked her. I think whats great about her, is that she grows, which is most important in a character. BUT what I didnt like, as stated above, is as much as I fall for her, I was hoping for MORE. The sexual tension created, the paranoia with the family, the roommate, while they are mature reactions, I wanted a little more, especially the two former, I felt the author ended up skimming over two of the biggest discussions within the book! In that respect I felt cheated. 

Fin Hunter- I dont quite understand Fin, (in the beginning) but I sure do love him. He seems like a sweet guy, and quite the family man! His money concerns are a bit weird...but hey this is the theme of the book! (things dont always add up!) What I do like about Fin is that we see more than one side to him. And we see him fall for Ellie even when she cant see it herself. The author built great tension, conversation, loyalty and love throughout the book with this character and with Ellie. I liked that they grew into one another as well, attraction is so easy to have, but its another thing to have a more involved attraction that include emotions outside of lust, and personality. 

Nick Zano as Grayson

The brothers- Grayson/Beckett/Lennox- I like that these characters are in the book (not a fan of the sports they play but no biggie) I liked their role though. As Ellies brothers they play into her paranoia and desire to be more independent  I liked Lennox and Grayson the best, as they appear to be the better older protective brothers. While Beckett confuses me, a lot. I cant quite figure out how he fits in with Britte, and I dont understand his behavior. I dont understand why Ellie doesnt say something to him or become more involved in the issues than she acts. I like her family overall though, it does appear as though they are close knit. I dont like the constant discussion of money, it was a bit odd. It wasnt necessary that the topic be brought up so much (in reference to how much money the family has not the money Ellie "owes" Fin) Overall though I find these characters to assist in making all the others more relevant and understood. 

Beckett

Protected by Anna Applegate

Protected by Anna Applegate 4 STARS 

Synopsis: At the start of her senior year at Kingsbrook College, a small school in Northern Michigan, Ariya Adams has a perfectly normal existence. Determined to make this her best year yet, she attends her classes and hangs out with the friends she has come to love more than life.
That is until the arrival of the sexy and mysterious transfer student James Rymer, who captivates her affections almost instantly. With her emotions on the fritz for no apparent reason, and unsure if he shares her feelings, Ariya finds herself on an emotional roller-coaster in which everything she knows and loves is questioned.
When fantasy and reality mix, Ariya's world is turned upside down and she learns that "normal" isn’t what she thought it was. Danger soon comes for her and she discovers that everyone has been keeping secrets from her. The battle between one's duty and what feels right will have to be fought and it may be a struggle for Ariya to stay alive. When Ariya's life and the lives of the people she cares for most are endangered, she learns to never underestimate the power of blood.


Overall- I really enjoyed this book! I definitely suggest this book for anyone that is interested in a trilogy that is a young adult/new adult paranormal mystery romance! This book has it all. Even though the beginning is slow, as there is a little bit of build up, once youre past the first couple of chapters, the novel really picks up, and the story line truly begins! I love that this book has such build up, the plot, the characters, the love story, everything flows magically. There is plenty of angst and romance, but also action and mystery. (and paranormal). The author also gave a real treat at the end of the book, the first chapter of book two, which really shows how Ariyas relationships have grown, and the novel really becomes more of a new adult than young adult! Which I really appreciate  its so nice to see a love that grows over TIME and not a scene! I cant wait for Book 2 



Cover: Ok but not eye catching
Overall:  Very good! 
Characters: Ariya, Caroline, James, Nick and Riley (and Emma) 
Page Turner: At Time yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend If you like: Vampire books
Book Boyfriend: James. Swoon worthy
Genre: YA/NA Sci-Fi/Fantasy 
Sex Scenes: Not in this one...
Setting: Small College in Michigan

Plot- When I started this I was not ready for what was coming. I knew it would be paranormal but it was much more than I expected. This is one of those books, like many these days, where the first book is a little slow to set up the rest of the book and the series, but ends on a great high note, and theres plenty of action, mystery and love throughout the book to make it more than worth the read! 
The book starts off a little slow as we get to know the main characters and plot point within the book, and it takes a little while until the BIG explanation of what is truly going on comes out. But overall, the events leading up to those moments are worth the wait. Instead of many books these days, the love story builds over time, rather than a hot moment or a few pages. Which in and of itself is quite refreshing. Its also not a book about "made for each other, soul mates" which is also popular now. Instead this is a good old fashioned love story wrapped up into a paranormal story about the supernatural, witches, werewolves, vampires.  

I love the build up too, once the mystery starts Im wondering what will happen next and sitting on the edge of my seat at the end. I absolutely loved the ending chapters too, as much as the beginning chapters determine whether you will read the rest of a book, the ending chapter determine whether I liked the book overall and whether Ill read the next one, and I can honestly say I will be reading this next one!!! I loved the ending. Its a happy ending but leaves you wanting more. And the author has even provided a glimpse into the next book at the end, which AHHH it quite amazing. Taking the series to the next level!!! 

Characters--

Dianna Argone as Ariya 

Ariya- At first I dont like Ariya, I find her internal monologues a little juvenile and overly thoughtful. But once the initial set up is finished, her personality begins to level out and I really start liking her. She is sweet and caring, kind and selfless. She is completely relate able to any small town, naive college girl. Ariya is always looking out for other people and trying to help. Her naivety is part of her charm. I fell in love with her love story though. She is the kind of girl thats waiting for her prince, and wont settle. Ariya is also the kind of girl that can be friends with anyone, I really felt like she was down to earth, there was nothing overly powerful about her personality (in a good way) which made this book feel more real, or at least the characters! 

Her love story unfolds over time, rather than in a matter of minutes or one sexual encounter and I appreciate that the author took time to build her character (no pun intended!) it was very refreshing. 


I also like that Ariya gets stronger throughout the book too. As she begins to figure out what was going on around her, she really moves into her own. She's a force to be reckoned with. Her sweet kind demeanor begins to learn to fight for herself and for her love. I get the feeling that she will be even stronger in the next book. 

Aaron Tveit as James

James- AHHH!!! I have a love hate love relationship with him. Hehe. I LOVE him. He is very dreamy. And not just because I think he's hot. I think he is charming, sweet, protective, considerate, loving, and so much more. I could go on. The author did such a great job with this one. He is the epitome of my dream guy (except for the paranormal part, on second thought...)  Over the course of the book, we start to see James change over time, as he gets to know Ariya on a personal level, his feelings for her begin to show and over the course of the book we learn why its so hard for him to let go and just be. I love that his character unfolds over the book so naturally. In the same way we would feel or learn about someone in real life. And his secrets arent life altering betrayals that will tear them apart, but a reality of the paranormal world they live in. Its incredibly romantic and yet so sad at the same time. (this is how I felt about Stefan and Elena of TVD!)

Dustin Milligan as Nick

Caroline 

Caroline and Nick are such a great power couple. I love their strength and love. Caroline is so completely compassionate, loving, and caring and takes her friendship with Ariya to a whole new level. I love her snarkiness and her over protectiveness of Ariya as every best friend should be. It is after all their job. I also like Carolines relationship with Nick, they fit together so well, perfectly in fact and their love is sweet. Nick also seems like a good guy. We dont get to know him that well, but we get to see his interactions with Caroline and with James in front of Ariya. I like at the end the way that Caroline and Nick handle the situations, it shows how their love plays off one another, they compliment one another. 

Trevor Donovan as Riley

Riley- I liked Riley overall, but I was disappointed in him as his role played out, though I hope to see him. First I must say its not the authors fault I dont like him. She did a great job of making him the typical guy in college...I just feel so bad for Ariya! Ha. I dont like how he treated her. But as a general character I like him. I think having the guy friend in the story is good, it also helps shape Ariya and how naive she is!

Devon and Emma- (supporting characters)
What is there to say about these two!? Devon is so good at playing creepy. I think the author did a great job with creating a creepy guy into the mix. I also liked Emma, she was a great displacement character, as someone who interrupts what was happening with James and Ariya, she displaces everything that Ariya had going on and the waves are very interesting!  

Brant Daugherty as Devon

Found by Stacey Wallace Benefiel

Found by Stacey Wallace Benefiel (Penny Black Trilogy Book 1) 4.5 STARS

Synopsis: Penny Black hasn’t had it easy. Just about everything you’d expect to happen to a harassed foster-kid turned junkie has happened to Penny. Add in the mysterious power to rewind time, conducting events around her, and it’s a wonder she held up on the streets for so many years. Now, at seventeen, the New Society has found her. Finally, Penny is where she belongs. But that doesn’t stop the visions, or the need to protect the victims shown to her.

Wyatt Adams is excited and intrigued when his sister Melody assigns him to be Penny’s Lookout. Being the youngest, and hopelessly ordinary in the family that created the New Society, has left Wyatt feeling like he has a lot to prove -- and Penny is a big deal. She’s got abilities that surpass any he’s seen before…and pretty much every quality he looks for in a girlfriend, but no one needs to know about that, especially Penny.

* I received an ARC for an honest review by NetGalley

Overall- Woah! Woah. Seriously. This book was great. I must say though, much like some of the other reviewers have mentioned I didnt read the companion trilogy before starting Found. With that I admit, I was confused by the people. But otherwise, I thought the world setting and characters were great. For those that are skeptical because of other reviews, I think what they disliked about this book may have been some of the things that were explained in the companion trilogy Zellie Trilogy. But honestly, I thought the book was awesome! Plenty of action, mystery, sci-fi tech, and romance. Admittedly though this is a shorter book, but I think its worth it. There were a few things I didnt like about the book, primarily, the spanish lingo that felt out of place. Otherwise this is a must read for any technie junkie interested in a mystery with some love. I NEED The next book now!!

Cover: Cool
Rating: PG 13 
Overall: Entertaining Sci-fi read!
Characters: Wyatt and Penny mainly. With LOTS of other minor characters 
Page Turner: YES
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: YES
Book Boyfriend: Wyatt
Genre: Sci-Fi YA to NA 
Sex Scenes: Kind of, yes 
Setting: LA 
Read if you Liked-  The Talented Series, Unraveling, the Daynight Series or Grasping at eternity.

Sasha Jackson as Penny 

Plot --This was such a great action packed, mystery, sci fi romance for the young adult new adult generation. Like many books in this in between genre, it seems that the character will grow with the reader (in age and maturity). This book starts off with a rocketing start, and reminds me a little of final destination. (though its not gruesome and not a book about death) Instead the plot was more than I bargained for. I really enjoyed this book. It was a great afternoon read (its shorter than most new adult books at 150 pages) But if you're looking for a fun quick read this is it!

I loved the author's style of writing. Told in dual POV's I felt the author was able to give each character their own personality and maintain the integrity of the character. The only issue I had was following who was who, but the main characters were easy enough to understand. I liked that there were no dull moments. Every chapter had a purpose and it was evident that the author took care to make sure there was a point to every thing. I loved the sarcasm and the jokes, some people dont care for this humor or style, but I appreciate it. I felt that it eased some of the natural tension, that builds but isnt necessary. It also helps to explain why people dont freak out over certain issues.

I absolutely cannot wait to read the next book! There IS a cliffhanger in this book. Just when you think Penny has found her happy ending...things get a little FREAKY and I am dying to know what happens next!


Characters- I loved Penny, she was fiesty, sarcastic, witty and sexy. I can understand though why other people may comment on her level of trust and understanding, which come too quickly to her in the first few days in a new place. To be honest, I didnt really notice this, I thought the author did a good job of explaining why in the early pages. Aside from this, I felt that Penny really came into her own, she grew into a more understanding and compassionate person, fearful yes, paranoid, always. Her personality was easy to relate to and I was happy to see where she ended up, though disappointed I dont know what happens next yet!

Wyatt- Oh Wyatt, youre so cute! I liked that the guy was the shy one, unsure of himself, but open to possibilities. He gets embarrassed. So often we hear about the girl being this way, so it was somewhat refreshing to meet a confident guy who is somewhat self conscious about himself and his feelings. I think the author portrayed him pretty well, as the virgin, the down side was that it did feel odd than an 18 year old hadnt even managed to get kissed yet, for someone not bad looking thats ridiculous. LOL. Otherwise. I liked him a lot! He seemed like an actual teenager with his constant looking at female bodies and his mind inadvertantly wandering...he was funny too! In that geeky kind of way. Which I thought was sweet.

And for the next one? Maybe this is what Kai will look like??

Corbin Bleu as Kai? 

Evolution by Kelly Carrero

Evolution by Kelly Carrero 3 STARS 

Synopsis:  Seventeen year old Jade Sommers life tuned upside down the moment she saw the inch long cut across her face, heal right before her eyes.Jade thought she was going insane, but her boyfriend Aiden Scott knew better. He knew what she was. And like him, she was born this way.Now if finding out that people like her shouldn’t exist was bad enough, Jades best friend is kidnapped by the psycho who’s terrorised her dreams. With the help of Aiden, she has to figure out how to saver her, before it’s too late. But what Jade doesn’t know, is not everything is what it seems. She is merely a puppet in a sadistic game to find out what she is truly capable of – and the game has only just begun

Overall--When I first started this book, I was hooked, I couldnt wait to figure out what was going on. However, by the time I got to the end I was upset with the fact that it seemed as though I didnt get any answers to the main purpose of the book. Generally, I enjoyed the book which is why it got three stars, but the biggest problem I had with the book is really that I didnt understand how they are super human and it was never explained. What I was given as an explanation, was essentially nothing, it was that they use more of their brain...and throughout the book, she is trying to figure out how to use her abilities but its not explained how some people have some powers and others dont, or why using your brain means your immortal. I had a really hard time with the concept. In the end though, I probably wont read the other books in this series. Its not that I didnt like the book, but I didnt find it super compelling and for 3 dollars, Id want the book to be longer and more developed. 

Plot--The overall plot was pretty good, until the end. Where nothing was explained. I was cruising through, enjoying the story which moved at a good pace, which developments, and character and world building that fit into everything  until suddenly it all stopped making sense. The last 5% of the book was a cluster-. Seriously? Its not just a cliffhanger, it felt like something out of left field, and it was. There were other minor things that annoyed me, specifically the repetitive nature of the authors writing, it felt misplaced most of the time. The good stuff- I think the general plot was really interesting and intriguing and the idea that she was just coming into these abilities I found interesting, and wanted to learn more about the. Also I really like the connection built between Jade and Aiden. Their relationship kept me intrigued as well, especially considering it didnt feel like a young relationship it felt developed. 

Characters-- 

Jade -I like Jade (generally) she was interesting and her personality kept me entertained. Mainly her consistent internal monologue was funny and genuine. Her thoughts felt normal and her reactions sincere. Her relationship with her mother was odd and made me feel bad for her, her relationship with Aidens family also struck me as strange, but then again at least that one made more sense. I would have liked to know whether Jades mom knew about her abilities and that there was some resolution there...

Aiden- I like Aiden, what a catch!!! He is not only handsome and perfect, but he is so compassionate, understanding, considerate, sweet and so much more!!! Ugh. Hes prince charming with special abilities and I want one! I think Aiden though is almost too perfect. In the end though his and Jades relationship is beautiful and I like that its kept so in tact by everything. Many times I read books and there is such struggle and angst between the loves, whereas here it appears that the duo is strong and only gets stronger which is refreshing. His relationship with his parents is also nice to see. 

Grasping at Eternity By Karen Amanda Hooper

Grasping At Eternity by Karen Amanda Hooper 4 STARS

Synopsis: Leave it to Maryah Woodsen to break the one rule that will screw up eternity: Never erase your memories. Before entering this life, Maryah did the unthinkable—she erased. Now, at seventeen years old, she’s clueless that her new adoptive family has known her for centuries, that they are perpetually reincarnated souls, and that they have supernatural abilities. Oh, and she's supposed to love (not despise) Nathan, the green-eyed daredevil who saved her life.
Nathan is convinced his family’s plan to spark Maryah's memory is hopeless, but his love for her is undying. After spending (and remembering) so many lifetimes together, being around an empty version of his soulmate is heart shattering. He hates acting like a stalker, but has no choice because the evil outcast who murdered Maryah in their last lifetime is still after her. 

While Maryah’s hunter inches closer, she and Nathan make assumptions and hide secrets that rip them further apart. Maryah has to believe in the magic within her, Nathan must have faith in the power of their love, and both need to grasp onto the truth before they lose each other forever—and discover just how lonely eternity can be. 

* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review 

Overall--Eek! I was hestitant going into this novel, but I was gripped from the first page. I honestly, could not put this down. (I wanted to skip work and eating to read this book!) Having the 2 perspectives as narrators really helped ensure an understanding the events, actions and roles of everyone. There are moments when I get confused or I have to recall who is who and who did what etc, but for the most part I was able to follow without any problems. 

I fell in love with Maryah, and Nathanial. Even though I got annoyed with both characters, I generally was very intrigued, interested and rooting for the couple to come together. I am dying to learn what happens in the next book. While there isnt a cliff hanger, it leaves open quite a few questions. If you liked Dissever, or Talented you will like this book, no doubt. Im loving this series!! I immediately purchased the next book in this series so I will be continuing this one for sure!!

Cover: beautiful 
Rating: PG to PG13  
Overall: Awesome!1
Characters: Maryah, Nathanial, River (and too many others) 
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: YES
Book Boyfriend: Nathan
Genre: Young Adult Sci fi 
Sex Scenes: NO
Setting: Sedona AZ, High school 
Read If you Liked...Dissever; Fall from Grace; Blue Violet; Providence, The Chosen; Fallen; Reckless Magic ( A romance with science fiction thrown in!) 


Plot--Wow. This one is complicated confusing, intriguing and amazing! A story about love throughout the times, some science fiction, and a lot of loyalty and family! I think the pace of the novel worked fine, a few items seemed out of place, specifically the amount of time it took for Maryah to learn anything of importance. My one gripe with this book was exactly that, it took SOOO long for Maryah to figure anything out, it seemed as though she might just be oblivious. HOWEVER, I get that if I were Maryah, I too would be trying to explain away everything, considering my entire life just changed, and my family was murdered. 

What worked best in this book was the dual point of view. It truly pushed the novel forward, but also provided the information, background and insight necessary to understand Maryah. Learning the history from Nathans point of view was a treat. I loved hearing his love for her, and the agony he was going through, it was saddening and maddening, but that was the point! Giving us the emotional roller-coaster he was going through made Maryah all that more interesting. 

Getting to know the family was somewhat confusing at times; but quite the delight, I found it really interesting because everyone has their own personality, which was very evidence by the authors writing. I also enjoyed the supporting characters, like River, and some of the bad guys that Nathan interacted with. Everything fit together so well and set the book up nicely, for a good ending, a happy one, but also with plenty of questions for the reader to want to continue on the journey. 

 I am completely intrigued to learning what will be happening in the coming books, to see where this all takes us I suspect considering the ending, there will be a lot of action!!!

Characters-

Shaneas Grimes as Maryah

Maryah- Where to begin. I can honestly say I felt the complete range of emotions on this character. I liked her at times, and other times I found her annoying. The big thing with her character is that she has a low self esteem, which I REALLY didnt understand. (why did her parents put her down? that was never explained) Yet at the same time, I enjoyed her naivety and her oblivious nature. Considering her circumstances some reactions seemed completely normal. However, other reactions, seemed like maybe she was blind deaf or dumb. I think in reality, she was just trying to cope with the death of her family, and so I am forgiving of her childish behavior and oblivious nature. What I didnt like was that she seemed to only be friend with River (and her family) which I find odd. And her reactions to Nathan were so strange sometimes. But considering her dreams, I suppose I understand...now you can see Im undecided on my feelings for Maryah....hopefully the next book will solidify my feelings better.

Ian Harding as Nathaniel

Nathaniel-- Ah. Nathan!!! He is so handsome and sweet. So Beautiful.And charming. But lets be honest...if I were Maryah Id be creeped out too! Ha. But in reality and by the end of the book he has made quite the impression on me. Hearing things from his point of view, helps the reader get to know his motivations; his reason for pushing Maryah or pushing himself away, it also helps the reader get to know the history and background. It allowed me to get to know other characters too. I felt his personality was strong, and I appreciated going through his emotions and he struggled with Maryah. I wouldnt say he developed as a character, but instead as a reader I got to know him and his personality over the course of the book, and honestly, thats how I feel about most of the people.

Rafi Gavron as River 

River- Ugh. River was a great, yet horrible character. I like the tension he created, unbeknownst to Maryah. He is what made me frustrated with Maryah. She was too trusting of him. Im not sure why either. The author did not make him out to be a good guy, I think really she trusted him because he was outside of her family. But overall, I disliked him throughout the book. (I think he is kind of supposed to). I was confused as to why Maryah even put up with him. I understood why she was friends with April and thereby River, but once April was "gone" I didnt understand why she continued...

malese jow as Krista

Krista- Im a little conflicted on Krista, I liked her, but I didnt like her. I liked her because it was easy to see why Maryah liked her, but I couldnt understand why Krista would leave Maryah the way that she did. Especially considering the ending. I was baffled that a best friend wouldnt check in more often or notice Maryah's feelings etc. But I look forward to getting to know her better in the next book!



Supporting Cast (Faith, Haromony, Carson, Louise, Amber, Anthony, Dakota etc...)--I REALLY LOVED the supporting cast. While I will reiterate that there were a lot of them, so I got confused sometimes...I still loved them. They also help make this book move forward, make sense, and come together in the end. Each person has their specific role as it relates to Maryah and Nathans story, and I appreciate how they all come together and support the main characters (reminds me of Reckless Magic!)I think they really helped me fall in love with the book and with the love story of Maryah and Nathan!