Author: Andrea Cremer
Genre: YA, Supernatural, Romance, slightly harlequin in feeling
Format: ARC
Release Date: October 2010
Perfect for: a wide variety of readers-- it's the Twilight of Werewolf books!
18-year-old Calla is the alpha female of her clan of were-wolfs (aka Guardians) and as the alpha female is promised to the alpha male of her brother clan-- the handsome Ren. The union between the two alpha's will create a new clan-- one with the important job of protecting land which the clan masters deem forbidden. But when Calla goes against her nature and saves the human boy Shay, she finds herself on a path that makes her question the ideals she's gone along with her entire life.
I'm the first person to tell you that I don't like werewolf books. There's evidence of it in previous blog entries to prove it. However, I really *really* enjoyed 'Nightshade'. Very similar to how 'Twilight' was a book for those who had never read vampire books before, 'Nightshade' is a book for those who haven't read werewolf books before. You'll definitely want to give this read a try.
'Nightshade' is told from the point of view of Calla, alpha pack leader. She brings an interesting perspective to the novel as she is the 'creature' in the story, as opposed to the confused human. She's headstrong and should please readers who like strong-willed female protagonist stories. The male leads, Ren and Shay, are equally as engaging. And the love triangle? Well done. I think the best love triangles are the ones where the reader has a tough time choosing sides and I must say I was 'Team Ren' one page, and 'Team Shay' the next. Speaking of Shay, he has secrets-- secrets that cold propel this story into something even more compelling in future novels. That being said, be warned-- this is the first in a planned trilogy. The ending is very open ended and will leave you wanting more!
'Nightshades' story and voice drew me in instantly and it had a good mix of romance, action, and dialog. On the topic of romance, the romance in 'Nightshade' reminded me a bit of a harlequin novel. Keep in mind when reading it that the characters are 18. Even though characters don't go all the way, they do interact romantically. While I wouldn't classify this for older teens only, I wouldn't be giving it to a pre-teen or young teen. (Of course, that is my prerogative.)
Author Andrea Cremer has a fantastic novel on her hands that is sure to find a following fast. Read 'Nightshade'. It's fantastic.
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