Vampire Academy

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Borders Book Description:

St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger. . . .

Category: MUST READ

I decided to post this as an overall view of the series vs. each book. I figure I can always go back and review each one later, but I feel like Sassy and I need to get some good recommendations out there.  You might notice as time goes by that I, Izzy, am a fan of young adult fiction even though I am well past the target audience age.  I truly do look for books in other sections. I think I just have an infatuation with reading about first love. It doesn't hurt if the book contains a bit of the supernatural as well. I guess it makes it more interesting to me.  Anyway, I don't dwell on this fact, I just keep on reading...

Sorry to be side tracked, but I felt I needed to address this as ALL of my posts have been YA novels besides Water For Elephants.

On to the series...

I loved these books. I bought all six of the books for my reader at once. Call it a good feeling or presumptuously wasting money, but I got lucky because it turned out I couldn't have waited to purchase the next book each time I finished a book. I literally read the last sentence of one book and immediately started reading chapter 1 of the next book.  I stayed up way too late each night, ate lunch at my desk so I could read...you get it...these books owned me. Sassy still hasn't ready these, much to my dismay. I need to know if it is just me or if these are really as great as I think.  I think it is the latter considering I see tons of 5 star ratings for these books.

The story line was pretty intense.  It is a whole new world and set of rules for vampires.  See that's the thing, I thought I had picked up a book on vampires and really the main character is a Dhampir.  So, I had to learn all these rules about Richelle Mead's vampires, Dhampirs and Strigoi.

The main character is for once kick ass. She doesn't need rescuing (most of the time). She has a smart mouth that spouts off before she thinks and often gets her into trouble.  I loved her character.  She was strong, both physically and emotionally. Normally in a love story, the female is the weaker character.  Rose, however, is actually stronger than Dimitri when it comes to control and emotions.

Since we are honest here, one negative comment I can make...the main character stays true to her age.  She is a 17 year old teenager.  I didn't like how the author would send Rose on tangents.  Often, Rose would stray off in her own thoughts that were completely separate from the story line being dealt with.  I'm not sure about anyone else, but I got very frustrated with her.  I wanted to find out what was going to happen next and then you are stuck reading five pages worth of Rose's thoughts about something that sometimes seemed completely irrelevant.  That being said though, the author kept Rose true to her nature as a teenager. What I am trying to say here, in a million words or less, is the plot can be slow to develop throughout the series. 

This was a great series. I feel like I need to go back and reread the series because I blew through it. The story line definitely kept me on the edge of my seat.  It was creative and unique with so many twists and turns. Some scenes actually took my breath away. This is a must read if you like action, suspense, and a good love story.

 

Spoilers ahead...do not read if you haven't read the whole series...

I can't wait for Sassenach to read this series so we can break this story down...I had so many conflicting feelings throughout this series.

Did anyone else feel like it would just suck to be a dhampir instead of a vampire (I know, I know, I am writing about this as if it were real, but isn't that the authors point...to make the world they create almost seem real.)  Anyways, the vampires get special powers, can be with anyone they want while the dhampirs train their whole lives to defend the vampires. They don't really have much of a choice, sure they could choose not to but that decision, of course, does not come without consequence as they are looked down upon. The dhampirs can't even procreate without vampires. They have to have an affair (yes affair because a vampire almost never marries a dhampir) just to have children.

Then my next conflicting emotion...Rose's relationship with Dimitri. Don't get me wrong, I was/ am an avid supporter of their relationship. I was rooting for them throughout the series. It was kinda hot...the whole fight training and denying their feelings in the beginning. But I digress, he was her teacher! Yeah, he was only like 6 years older than her and they had an undeniable connection, but somewhere in the back of your mind you have to question that, right? I am a fan of the whole forbidden love thing, but teacher / student romance is pushing it.  I'm not really faulting it because it works itself out and it never crossed into the creepy territory.

Adrian - Am I the only one that felt absolutely horrible for him by the last book?  I know someone is always going to get hurt when there is a love triangle involved. But, it took me so long to trust Adrian and connect with him. I was invested in his character after a while and really liked him. I always knew that Rose belonged with Dimitri and if at all possible that they would be together. But, Rose and Adrian did have something good together too. He was funny, sweet, and charming. I ended up loving his character.  I needed him to do something horrible to Rose in order to justify her choosing Dimitri over him. He helped her SO  much to save Dimitri. I felt that she misled him; I knew it was coming, but I still felt so bad for him.

Lissa - I thought she came off as selfish sometimes. I get she's the princess and Rose's sole job in life is too protect her, but I wanted Rose to be able to talk to Lissa about some of the things she was going through. In a way, it was Rose's nature to harbor her problems and take on Lissa's as if they were her own. I mean she literally absorbs Lissa's "darkness". If I am remembering correctly, Lissa gets mad at Rose in one of the later books because she leaves her at the Academy to go find Dimitri. What kind of friend is that? She should want her to be happy. I guess I wanted Lissa to redeem herself throughout the series by not expecting everything from Rose as a dhampir, but to at times just be her best friend.

Spoilers OVER...

So what do you think? Have you read it? Are you going to read it? I'd like to know what you think...tag your it...



A Reliable Wife

A Reliable Wife by: Robert Goolrick

Category: Must Read, History

Book Summary: Rural Wisconsin, 1909. In the bitter cold, Ralph Truitt stands alone on a train platform waiting for the woman who answered his newspaper advertisement for “a reliable wife.” But what he gets is Catherine Land, a would-be black widow who plans to win the wealthy man’s devotion…and then slowly poison him to death. What she has not counted on, however, is the passion she finds in the seemingly solid, forthright Truitt—a man whose own past is far from pure, and who harbors secret plans of his very own.

MY Thoughts? Well...let me just start by saying this is NOT what one would consider a romantic story. However, the word CREATIVE is the first word I think of to describe this book. Upon a visit to Borders (to purchase my second installment of the Outlander), I had not only ONE person suggest this book, but two absolute strangers tell me to read A Reliable Wife. I figured I really couldn't pass up that sort of recommendation.

This is certainly not my typical novel; however, I was pleasantly surprised - just in a different way. I wasn't sure what to expect, so when I began to read I was truly blown away as to the unusual nature in which this book is written. There are more twist and turns that I could even imagine. JUST when you think you've discovered a character's 'true self', the rug is pulled right out from under you and you are left with your mouth gaping wide thinking "what the hell?". I will say that unlike many of today's contemporary novels, this story has many underlying layers which contribute to the overall feel and relationship climate throughout. This story is without a doubt one which is extremely thought provoking and pretty provocative. To be quite honest, the characters are not even very likable, but somehow in the mist of their 'madness', you find yourself rooting for them. There's an uncertain feel that leaves you guessing and questioning every one's morals, and THIS is one of the many reasons that it became a "can't-put-it-down" book. Additionally, many occasions I found myself, not only surprised at the turns the story took, but down-right SHOCKED at the visualizations of such extreme circumstances.

To sum things up. Even if you are a typical romance novel frequenter (like myself), this story holds something very different, but intriguing. The relationships, though they are not your typical "can't live without you", are so creative you become immersed in the love that does exist as well as the characters that although you feel like you know so well, you are never quite sure what their decisions may be.

I really hope anyone who hasn't read this one, gives it a shot. BE OPEN MINDED! (However, I forget that not everyone is the sucker I am for a love story, so I guess some may be typically drawn to this type of unique writing style.) Good luck and let me know what you think!

Water For Elephants: The Movie

We went to see the movie last night. Though we are still processing our thoughts on the movie, our opinions are running rampant! Thus, we decided to do a JOINT blog post to banter and discuss...all things WFE.

First thoughts though...WOW!  We were impressed.  Being both concerned that we had hyped the movie up so much that we would be let down, just to tell you...that is not the case. (Though, we do see through Rob shaded glasses, lets be honest) Rob Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, and Christoph Waltz were excellent. Of course, Rob, was our favorite. He WAS our Jacob Jankowski. 

A few SEXY pictures (I really couldn't resist)

The movie stuck so closely with the book! I haven't ever watched a movie that accurate. The book even capturing some of the dialogue.  The whole movie felt so authentic. The look/feel was exactly as I had visualized, it was absolutely beautiful. Walking out we both felt we were born in the wrong decade.


We can think of at least 10 - 15 times throughout the movie that we looked at each other and said "Oh My, He-is-SOooooo-Hot!".  No one prepared us for the level of hotness that we would witness. (Pictures beforehand really were NOT the same!) And after all was said and done - its been decided - Rob looks best with a tan and some scruff...working, shoveling Rob = WHOA! I think my heart stopped during that scene where is shoveling horse maneauer in a wife-beater. I mean come on, he is shoveling shit but it doesn't even matter, he looks AMAZING!

This pic does not do him justice, but it is the only pic I could find...

So, just as we thought we had it under control, our love/obsession with Robert Pattinson came back with full force after watching this movie. This whole post could go on for days about how great Rob Pattinson is, but we digress.

Having read the book, we both connected with the characters in the movie easily. We were able to follow the love story and know where Marlena's heart lay.  However, we do wonder if it was as easy and heart warming to a movie-goer who hasn't read the book. Did they feel it? Did they love it as much as we did? I found myself sometimes wondering, "if someone hasn't read this book, do they think he's getting played by Marlena?".

A few of our favorite parts:

• Um....Hotel scene! (Except that some girl was giggling throughout - I mean, EXCUSE me - I'm trying to fantasize visualize watch the movie - keep your trap shut!)

• The clips at the end of the movie that were the home movies of Jacob, Marlena, and their children. We LOVED that. It was so sweet. (I thought quite a little creative move which allows you to actually SEE just a bit of their "happily-ever-after")

• The stampede played out exactly like we thought it would. We were so excited to see that come to life and it was amazing. 

• Jacob getting drunk in August and Marlena's cabin. Well...the part we really thought were actually - the effects of it. Barbara and the girls getting ahold of Jacob and dressing him up....neither of us were prepared for the level of AWESOMENESS.  I want to find that picture of him when he emerges out of that trunk.  WE NEED IT! We have searched all morning and cannot find it. If anyone out there has it, please help a girl out and send it. It it going to be our twitter wallpaper, phone wallpaper, hell it might even become by bathroom wallpaper (I kid, I kid). It really was epic...wig, makeup, costume, TASSLE. (Can't help but imagine Rob Pattinson may have ACTUALLY had a night or two like that himself? Hmmm? Drunk-man-walking...I think played suspiciously accurately. Bah-ha!)

If you haven't seen this movie yet, GET YOUR KEYS, GET IN THE CAR, and SEE IT NOW. It is worth it.

Let us know what you thought about the movie. Was there something they missed that you felt should have been included? Did you hate? Did you love it? Can you NOT stop thinking about Rob Pattinson now?

Tag your it...

2 Quick Reviews

OK...so over the last two weeks I read two books: If I Stay by Gayle Forman and A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb. Both books were decent. I didn't consider either of them a waste of time, but I was expecting more.  I read great reviews over at Good Reads and Borders so maybe my expectations were set a little too high.

First:

 If I Stay by Gayle Forman

Borders Book Description:

In a single moment, everything changes. Seventeen year- old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall riding along the snow-wet Oregon road with her family. Then, in a blink, she finds herself watching as her own damaged body is taken from the wreck...

So like I said, I heard great things about this book. The book description above doesn't really summarize the book or prepare the readers for what to expect out of this book.  In a nut shell, the book is about a girl named Mia who doesn't fit in at school or even in her family. Girl meets boy, falls in love, struggles with the decision to stay in this world just for this boy.

I might get some harsh feedback from this review as I know a good bit of people loved this book (like 5 stars loved it). If I was rating this book I would give it...maybe a 3. But let me explain.

I don't think I got this book the way a lot of others did.  I didn't once think to my self this is thought provoking as others often included in their reviews. I didn't cry while reading it either. Maybe it makes me sound shallow or cold....I don't know. I just couldn't connect with Mia.  Even after I accepted Mia for how her character was written, the biggest struggle I had was accepting the "undying" love between Mia and Adam.  It might have been there in the dialogue, but I had trouble accepting it at face value like that.

However, this book  portrays a good sense of family, staying true to yourself, and love. I think with that it sends a good message to young adult readers. A draw back when referring this book to a young adult reader though...there is unnecessary swearing and if I remember correctly underage drinking.  Now, I am no prude, believe me (lol), but I just felt that my younger cousin might really get something out of this book, but I can't let her read it because Mia's parents might just drop the f-bomb every once in a while.

Overall, I don't want to discourage anyone from reading this book. It kept me going as I wanted to find out where the story was going. If you've read or plan to read it, let me know...maybe you can shed some light to let me know what I was missing since so many people out there loved this book.



Second...

A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb

Borders Book Description:

In the class of the high school English teacher she has been haunting, Helen feels them: for the first time in 130 years, human eyes are looking at her. They belong to a boy, a boy who has not seemed remarkable until now. And Helen—terrified, but intrigued—is drawn to him. The fact that he is in a body and she is not presents this unlikely couple with their first challenge. But as the lovers struggle to find a way to be together, they begin to discover the secrets of their former lives and of the young people they come to possess

Now, this book description intrigued me. How is a ghost going to fall in love with a human, right?  Well, I don't want to give away to many spoilers in the review, but they work it out. :o)  While reading there was always an eerie feeling lurking in the background. I guess its the talk of ghosts and haunting people, but I didn't find it overwhelming and it didn't take away from the story.

One thing I loved about this story...it had almost a historical romance feel to it.  The way James respects Helen and courts her (swoon). James often refers to the main character as Miss Helen. There is just something about that time period that I find romantic.

I didn't rush through the book, but it kept me curious enough to keep reading.I did have to reread some paragraphs multiple times as I had a hard time picturing what the author was trying to portray. I felt that the ending was almost too easy.  The whole book is a struggle for Helen and James and then the last 50 pages just fly by and we get our happily ever after. And that happily ever after was what I was expecting and yet what I wasn't expecting all at the same time. This was definitely a very unique book, unlike anything I have read before.

Have you read it? What did you think?

Tag your it...

Outlander (Part 2)

Best Fan Made Outlander Video Yet!

 

Okay, so I'm going to let you in on a little secret. I just finished my re-read of Outlander (book 1). Since this is no small book it took me awhile to decide to pick it back up (Izzy is probably pounding her fist shaking her head because I have about 30 books to read to catch up on what's going on in the books she's already read.). That being said, I just couldn't stay away - I have re-read my Twilight series (and I'm sure I will continue to pick them up from time to time *duh*) but, my need of some Jamie and Claire action outweighed all logic. So, just gotta say... re-reading is sooooo much more interesting - and *cough, cough - steamy*! With these books yes, you have to use your imagination to create the scene - no movie to give you an idea where the author was going - but in some instances it is THAT that makes it much better. (Oh! and I need to mention...please don't let the slow start discourage you - I PROMISE - it's worth the time.)

During my first Outlander read - I stumbled upon a fellow blogger who's blog became my companion during my "all things Outlander read" (no exaggerations - if I wasn't reading - I was Internet searching about it). Carol @ MyOutlanderPurgatory.com. I strongly recommend her blog for several reasons.

1. She gives you a chapter by chapter re-cap of her reading, feelings, and even funny predictions- giving all the info in a nice, neat, clever little package.
2. She is one witty little lady - seriously...Laugh Out Loud funny.
3. Although her opinions may not have ALWAYS been the same as mine, her feelings on certain things may open your eyes to another way to see a "situation". (However, most of the time they were spot on.)
4. She has playlist for the book - nuf' said - and pretty good taste in her "soundtrack". (This really stuck with me since I am a true sucker for music and I LOVE soundtracks!

AND NOW....A few additional notes that I would like to mention about Outlander. Upon my reading, I was reminded of yet ANOTHER reason to love this book - Memorable quotes and passages! I'm going to share a few of my favorites from Book 1. 

~ "Does it bother you that I'm not virgin?" He hesitated before answering.

"Well, no," he said slowly, "so long as it doesna bother you that I am." He grinned at my drop-jawed expression, and backed toward the door.

"Reckon one of us should know what they're doing," he said. The door closed softly behind him; clearly the courtship was over." (Chapter 13) 

~"Are you scared of me?" He didn't look it. Perhaps he was nervous though...He looked into my eyes and smiled. 

"Aye, More scairt than you, I expect. That's why I'm holdin' your hands; to keep my own from shaking." (Chapter 15) - Simply precious!

 

~"I didna realize that ye did it face to face. I thought ye must do it the back way, like; like horses, ye know." (Chapter 15) - priceless.

~"I'll thank ye," said a cool, level voice, "to take your hands off my wife." (Chapter 21) 

~"...Keep to your bed, laddie, and, er. . . rest."

"Why is it," I demanded, looking after the crusty old horsemaster, "that everyone seems to assume we've no more on our minds than to get into bed with each other?"

"For one thing, we've been married less than a month," he observed. "For another --" He looked up and grinned, shaking his head. "I've told ye before, Sassenach. Everything ye think shows on your face." (Chapter 24) 

~"I mean to be sure you'll remember me while I'm gone." (Chapter 24) - Mmmmph!

~"...Because I wanted you." He turned from the window to face me." "More than I ever wanted anything in my life," he added softly.

I continued staring at him, dumbstruck. Whatever I had been expecting, it wasn't this, Seeing my openmouthed expression, he continued lightly. "When I asked my da how ye knew which was the right woman, he told me when the time came, I'd have no doubt. And I didn't. When I woke in the dark under that tree on the road to Leoch, with you sitting on my chest, cursing me for bleeding to death, I said to myself, 'Jamie Fraiser, for all ye canna see what she looks like, and for all she weighs as much as a good draft horse, this is the woman.' " (Chapter 27)

~"My love," he whispered. "Oh, my love. I do want ye so."

"Not the same thing, is it?" I said. "Loving and wanting, I mean."

He laughed, a little huskily. "Damn close, Sassenach, for me, at least" (Chapter 27) 

~"Ye know," he observed letting go at last, "you've never said it."

"Neither have you."

"I have. The day after we came...."

"And I said that loving and wanting weren't necessarily the same thing," I countered.

"....I wanted ye from the first I saw ye -- but I loved ye when you wept in my arms and let me comfort you..."

"...You first"

"No, you."

...He leaned across the fence, reaching, and I stepped into his arms, feeling the heat of his body and the beat of his heart.

"I love you." (Chapter 31) LOVED the vision of this!

 

~"And if there was eternity, or even the idea of it, then perhaps Anselm was right; all things were possible. And all love? I wondered I had loved Frank; I still did. And I loved Jamie, more than my own life. But bound in the limits of time and flesh, I could not keep them both. Beyond, perhaps? Was there a place where time no longer existed, or where it stopped? A place where all things were possible. And none were necessary." (Chapter 39) - perhaps this sums up what Claire has been trying to figure out through the ENTIRE series? I thought it stated everything perfectly.

~"I meant it, Claire," he said quietly. "My life is yours. And yours to decide what we shall do, where we go next. To France, to Italy, even back to Scotland. My heart has been yours since first I saw ye, and you've held my soul and body between your two hands here, and kept them safe. We shall go as ye say." (Chapter 41) - deep sigh. 

***I'm certain I have forgotten several (since it is 12:30am) but feel free to remind me. I shall add to this when I stumble upon more and re-read again***

Water For Elephants

Category: MUST READ, Robert Pattinson, Romance

Book Description by Borders

Though he may not speak of them, the memories still dwell inside Jacob Jankowski's ninety-something-year-old mind. Memories of himself as a young man, tossed by fate onto a rickety train that was home to the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth. Memories of a world filled with freaks and clowns, with wonder and pain and anger and passion; a world with its own narrow, irrational rules, its own way of life, and its own way of death. The world of the circus: to Jacob it was both salvation and a living hell.

Water for Elephants…  I LOVE THIS BOOK.  I read the book in just two days and when I was done, I didn't want it to be over. I find that the books you love the most are the ones that are the hardest to talk about.

I had thought about buying this book so many times. To be honest, I had ulterior motives when beginning this book. I will let you in on a small secret.  I might have picked this book up shortly after hearing that Rob Pattinson was going to play Jacob Jankowski (don’t judge).  I knew I would want to see the movie since I am a fan of Mr. Pattinson.  So I bought the book and sat down to see what all the fuss was about.

Well, now I know. The book is great. The author does a great job of creating a beautiful world to let you get lost in.  The relationship between Marlena and Jacob is so sweet and believable. There is nothing over the top or desperate about their relationship. It is just real. Upon their first meeting, I was cheering for them. 

Jacob is an endearing character with a kind soul. Jacob’s journey has many twists and turns. Your heart breaks for him as he experiences life at its worst and you find yourself smiling when Jacob gets the happiness he deserves. The author also does a great job writing the secondary characters.  Each character is so unique....August, Camel, and Walter (Kinko). Sara Gruen is able to paint a vivid picture of the circus life in the 1930's.

If I am being completely honest, I did find one draw back to the book.  I did get a little bored when the story line flips to present time and the "older" Jacob is no longer narrating the flash back. I am sure the present time story line was relevant to the book, but my focus was on Jacob and Marlena.  I wasn't quite as interested in the "older" Jacob harassing the nurses and his fellow peers. I felt that it slowed the story line down. I found my self speed-reading through these parts to get back to the flashbacks with Marlena and Jacob.  That being said, it isn't a big enough negativity that it would hinder me from recommending this book to anyone out there. It truly is a great book and deserves its spot on the best sellers list.

The book is a must read. I fell in love with the world that Sarah Gruen created. The circus has never been more intriguing. I CANNOT WAIT to watch this book come to life.

 Movie Release Date: April 22nd, 2011

Let me know what you think...tag your it.

-Izzy

The Time Traveler's Wife

Category: Must Read, Romance, What to read after Twilight

Publisher's Summary: A dazzling novel in the most untraditional fashion, this is the remarkable story of Henry DeTamble, a dashing, adventuresome librarian who travels involuntarily through time, and Clare Abshire, an artist whose life takes a natural sequential course. Henry and Clare's passionate love affair endures across a sea of time and captures the two lovers in an impossibly romantic trap, and it is Audrey Niffenegger's cinematic storytelling that makes the novel's unconventional chronology so vibrantly triumphant.

What Do I think?

Let me begin by saying that I read this book after seeing the movie that was released in 2009. My reasons to read were strictly because I LOVE Rachel McAdams. And of course, like 99% of other book-to-movies, the book certainly surpassed the movie by a long shot. The movie left a lot of unexplained situations in my eyes. Knowing what we know about book-to-movies...I needed clarification. I started off very hesitant. This being my first book after my Outlander series - I knew another time travel story wouldn't compare. However, these books were completely different - in a million ways. The main difference was that the ongoing problem throughout the book IS time travel, unlike in Outlander, where the time travel is important, but it's certainly not an on-going issue. The love in Time Traveler's Wife seemed to me to be more "understood" than developed. You have to accept that when Clare meets Henry (again), she loves him and knows they will marry. But Henry is meeting her for the first time. I was a little thrown off by the mood that is given throughout their dating time. Their love story has such a complexity that I had a lot of trouble trying to envision how a "REAL" person could ever really deal with such a situation. The author does a remarkable job of helping it make sense. If there was one occurrence that explains the pain of the characters and changes the entire mood of the story it's the miscarriages Clare endures, at times alone.

The author's unique style of writing allows us to have glimpses into the past and present, explaining wondrous amounts information for both characters without extensive (overwritten) descriptive paragraphs. This book is absolutely a recommended read. I was pleasantly surprised with how much I ended up missing this book (or the characters) when I was done with it. I hope you enjoy it as well - let me know! You're up :)

Eclipse

The Twilight Saga Eclipse

Borders Book Description


Readers captivated by "Twilight" and "New Moon" will eagerly devour the third book in Meyer's riveting vampire love saga. As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger. Readers captivated byTwilight and New Moonwill eagerly devour the paperback edition Eclipse, the third book in Stephenie Meyer's riveting vampire love saga. As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob --- knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella has one more decision to make: life or death. But which is which?


Category: Must Read


Eclipse was probably my favorite book of the series aside from Twilight. Twilight is where the love story started and detailed Edward and Bella falling in love. New Moon tore that all apart and introduced Jacob and the wolf pack and then put it all back together. Eclipse picks up where New Moon left off with Edward and Bella back together, but it isn't the same. Edward cause a lot of damage while he was away so everyone must deal with the consequences of his actions. 


That's where everything gets interesting. We have a full on love triangle throughout Eclipse. Who will Bella choose? (I never doubted Bella's decision, but I could see the appeal of choosing Jacob at times).  Bella would be able to grow old with Jacob and both of their families. She could have a relatively safe and NORMAL life. But, is that enough, ummm, NO. Sometimes the safest choose isn't the best choice.

The reader gets to experience an increased hostility between Edward and Jacob throughout the book. Personally, I felt at times it almost provided a bit of comedic relief.  The underlying tone of the dialogue is hostile, but the actual context is humorous.


"But if you ever bring her back damaged again — and I don't care whose fault it is; I don't care if she merely trips, or if a meteor falls out of the sky and hits her in the head — if you return her to me in less than the perfect condition that I left her in, you will be running with three legs. Do you understand that, mongrel?" - Edward Cullen, Eclipse

We also see a new side of Edward, over-protective, jealous, and controlling.  Which in real life, I might have told my boyfriend to take a hike. But in the world of Twilight, I might just be OK with this side of Edward. It's kinda hot (lol). He just loves Bella so much that he can't handle the thought of anything happening to her. 


A couple quick reasons why I absolutely love Eclipse....

LEG HITCH (let me know if you have no clue what I am referring to, but chances are you are well aware unless you live under a rock...lol), nothing more needs to be said here...


 The Proposal - "I promise to love you forever- every single day of forever. Will you marry me?' -Edward Cullen, Eclipse pg 460


The Tent Scene -  I can't include a favorite quote here because I love ALL of it.  You get some humor and a lot of insight from both Edward and Jacob on their feelings for Bella. OK OK...just one quote because it always makes me laugh...
I don’t see you making yourself useful. Why don’t you go fetch a space heater or something? - Edward Cullen, Eclipse

We get closure on a lot of things that have stemmed right from the very first book.  The book was intense and kept me reading until early hours of the morning. I will even confess to getting up an hour early for work in the morning just so I could squeeze in just a little more reading time (lol...I know I am not the only one..cough cough...Sassy). Sometimes, you have to do what you have to, we did tell you that we have toddlers, right? I am sure there are others out there that have to get creative with their reading times...taking a long bath, lunch breaks, traffic (just kidding)...

The Movie -


This movie seemed the most main-stream if that is the right word. It targeted a wider audience in the sense that it had more action.  Mr. Izzy said he liked this one the best - the story line was better and there was some action. I guess I can see that.  All around it was a great movie. I felt it was well done.  One critique though - can we say close ups? There are so many shots throughout the movie that are zoomed right in that I thought it took away from the scenes.  But, that is hardly enough to deter me from watching it multiple times! 

My favorite scenes in the book translated well to the movie. I loved the proposal / leg hitch scenes.  The tent scene held the right amount of tension. One of my favorite scenes and I can't explain why is the fight training scene. I love it!

They must be doing something right with these movies since they are making billions of dollars! I can't wait for the next two movie installments of Breaking Dawn.

What did you love about Eclipse? What did you hate? Let me know...tag your it!

-Izzy

The Twilight Sage: New Moon

New Moon By Stephenie Meyer

Borders Description

Star-crossed lovers Bella and Edward face new obstacles in this vampire love story--the second installment of Meyer's #1 "New York Times"-bestselling Twilight saga. Meyer's runaway #1 "New York Times" bestseller is another irresistible combination of romance and suspense with a supernatural twist. Star-crossed lovers Bella and Edward face new obstacles in this vampire love story--the second installment of the Twilight Saga. Legions of readers entranced by Twilight are hungry for more and they won't be disappointed. In New Moon, Stephenie Meyer delivers another irresistible combination of romance and suspense with a supernatural twist. The "star-crossed" lovers theme continues as Bella and Edward find themselves facing new obstacles, including a devastating separation, the mysterious appearance of dangerous wolves roaming the forest in Forks, a terrifying threat of revenge from a female vampire and a deliciously sinister encounter with Italy's reigning royal family of vampires, the Volturi. Passionate, riveting, and full of surprising twists and turns, this vampire love saga is well on its way to literary immortality.

Be prepared…I am a little chatty today…

This was my least favorite book of the series.  That being said, it truly still is a great book.  I am just Team Edward all the way.  I was never one that was on the fence on whether Bella belonged with Jacob.  It never occurred to me the first time through the series that Jacob was ever even a serious candidate. It took me three times through the series to even realize that Bella actually did love Jacob more than a brother.  I was blissfully oblivious to this.

New Moon breaks my heart every time I read it. Stephenie Meyer conveys the pain Bella experiences with such emotion that I feel like my heart breaks along with Bella’s.  I do not cry often…however, every time I read the break up scene, I can’t help but let a few tears slip. The thought of having your soul mate ripped away from you with no choice but to accept the decision is horrible. Then to be told that he doesn’t love you or want you, yeah, I think Bella handled it better than I could have. Seeing hallucinations would have been the least of my worries...(lol)

“There were no footprints, the leaves were still again, but I walked forward without thinking. I could not do anything else. I had to keep moving. If I stopped looking for him, it was over. Love, life, meaning… over.”
Bella Swan, New Moon, Chapter 3, p.73

I thought Edward was an IDOIT! Why would he think it was all his decision and give Bella no choices?  But, I do realize that it had to be done. In the end, both Edward and Bella learned so much from the separation.  They realized that they truly cannot live without each other. It also gave the characters a chance to grow and learn about themselves.  It also gave their intense love for each other more credibility. The reader can believe the depth of it because they have seen the result of their separation.

Stephenie Meyer brought another supernatural element into the series in this book….the werewolves.  They are the polar opposite of the vampires and for good reason. Bella was left heartbroken by the vampires and a werewolf is there to pick up the pieces and protect her when the vampires aren’t.

I can give credit to Jacob for cleaning up the mess that Edward left. He brought some life back to Bella. As I said before, I was oblivious to the extent of the love that Bella developed for Jacob. I was however, well aware, that Jacob was head over heels for Bella.  Their relationship was light.  Jacob was good for Bella, but he was never enough. Could you blame someone for refusing to accept less when they know what true love really is?

He thought time and patience would change me, and, though I knew he was dead wrong, I also knew that I would let him try.
Bella Swan, New Moon, Chapter 9, p.219

The reunion scene was perfect. Stephenie portrays it with just the right amount of suspense. My heart was actually racing as Bella ran toward the clock tower to save Edward in time (And I knew pretty much how it would turn out since there were 2 more books in the series…so that is saying something, right?) And then finally they are reunited and it was heaven (cue the angels singing)…until it wasn’t due to the Volturi.

Side note here, one thing I thought was clever in the book was the fact that Bella and Edward did not kiss until after they returned to Forks (as opposed to the make out session in the movie – which I love for different reasons). But back to the cleverness, Bella could have been so freaking happy that nothing else mattered, but she didn’t want Edward to kiss her. Why, because it would make it just that more difficult when he left her again. Now as the reader, I figured there was no way in hell he was leaving her side again. But this was a perfect example of just how damn broken Bella really was.

Even though the overall mood of the book is somber, new elements are brought in and keep the suspense coming so the overall depressive mood did not drag the book out.

I couldn’t put the book down. I just couldn’t… I needed to know how Stephenie Meyer was going to make it right with me after she broke my heart when she took Edward away from Me (ummmm) Bella. I couldn’t imagine how she was going to make a book without much of Edward as good as the previous book where the epic love story started. But, she did it and she did it well.

“Before you, Bella, my life was like a moonless night. Very dark, but there were stars--points of light and reason...And then you shot across my sky like a meteor. Suddenly everything was on fire; there was brilliancy, there was beauty. When you were gone, when the meteor had fallen over the horizon, everything went black. Nothing had changed, but my eyes were blinded by the light. I couldn't see the stars anymore. And there was no more reason for anything.” ~Edward Cullen, New Moon pg. 514

On to the movie…just a few quick thoughts...

I felt that this movie is so much closer to the book.  There were a few liberties taken, but I think they did a great job. The pain and anguish Bella experiences is portrayed well. The almost comatose scene is Bella’s bedroom was genius. The movie passes the months just as Stephenie passed them in the book…with nothing. Another thing, the letters to Alice…Genius again. I love that.  We were kept up on what was going on inside Bella’s head without Bella just talking to herself or voice over.

The movie was honestly beautiful. The color scheme was so much warmer than Twilight. Another beautiful thing, or rather beautiful things....

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Edward looks great, but Sassy said it well, "I'm Team Edward unless Jacob is SHIRTLESS!"








I need to quit now, I have made this into an epically long blog post. 

To sum it up...I loved the book, I loved the movie...read it, watch it! And then do it again! :o)

As ever, let me know what you think....tag your it...

-Izzy