Carol

I hate that this was not published in book form but only ebook. I enjoyed every minute reading it though.

“She's my best friend.” My muse, my brush, my artistry, my heart. All of it's dead without her. “I love her.”- Jeb

First of all, feel free to express any differences you have with me, as long as it is civil. I am all about comparing and discussing books. I see no need to argue via web about the book. Everyone is entitled to his/her own opinion.
I remember liking this book a lot better a couple years ago when I read it for the first time. Now, however, I feel very little happened in the 306 pages. I understand it is intended for the young adults, (which I am 22 now), but I am not understanding how negative these reviews are. I am not going to go on a tangent about other reviews though, so here is mine.

Dislikes:
I would have liked a little more suspense leading up to Zoey's marking.
There were times I got a bit annoyed with the inserted side comments and sarcasm, because of the frequent use of them.
Some of the “attention getters” did not have to be so inappropriate.
I could not help but feel a little uneasy every time a rude comment, or reference was made about the “step-loser”. Instead of feeling the dislike Zoey had for him, and the insults being directed at him, I felt it was always addressed to Christianity as a whole.
I would have liked Erik to be introduced in a less cliché fashion.

Likes:
I like the relatable parts such as when Zoey describes feeling like she does not belong. I enjoy being able to relate to characters when I read. It helps me feel like I am really part of the book.
Reading this book a couple years ago verses reading it now, does not change my likes and dislikes. I still enjoyed the book, in spite of my dislikes.
For some reason I got super excited when Zoey found Nala. I like cats and dogs alike, but this moment reminded me of when I found my black cat Spooks. The happiness just overwhelmed me. This goes with the being able to relate aspect of my review.

Favorite quote: “Darkness does not always equate to evil, just as light does not always bring good.”

I was not sure I would like this book, but the more I read, the more I enjoyed the story. At first, I was wondering why there would be three books to accompany this story, but now I am grateful there are! From finding out what happened to Daphne, my heart went out to her throughout the entire read. This book had me on an emotional rollercoaster that I did not want to get off of. I couldn't help but continue reading. I found myself excited, but nervous to continue reading for fear of what was going to happen to the Ingham family. I was shocked that Daphne would lie about who attacked her, but I eventually understood and couldn't fault her. Also, I was beyond relieved she came clean at least to her husband, Hugo. There were times when large periods of time went by, but Barbara Taylor Bradford did an outstanding job of implementing these time gaps in a way that was not irritating or that made me think I was missing out on parts of the story. For this being my first book by this author, I must say I am impressed and eager to continue the series.

Favorite quote: “What is meant to be is meant to be”

The synopsis had me already feeling sad but intrigued by the situation. I was shocked with the bluntness of the writing, especially in the beginning. There was a concern in the back of my mind that I thought because of the beginning of the book that I had nothing to really look forward to. I was wrong. The more I read, the more excited I felt about the story, and I wanted and needed to know more! There were a few things I predicted in the beginning of the book that ended up being right, but the surprises outmatched my predictions. The plot twists are what kept me reading, and eventually, I knew that I didn't have a clue what was going to happen next. The writing style made it easy to read and had me hooked.

Favorite quote: “Like the sun behind a cloud, it would still peek out from time to time.”

I am not going to lie this book took a minute to get my attention, but when it did, there was nothing stopping me from getting caught up in it. I hurried from work to get the next book. I am interested. Very interested.

“Sometimes a flame must level a forest to ash before new growth can begin. I believe Wonderland needed a scouring.”- Ivory Queen.