Shadow Kissby Richelle Mead

So, I’m not really going to describe what’s happened in this novel seeing how it’s book three and so much hinges on what has happened in books one and two.  Just know, the story continues to build.  The Strigoi are becoming a bigger and more puzzling threat that will definitely add to the action and suspense in future installments.  More elements of the special bond between Rose and Lissa will come to light, with some frightening consequences for Rose.  Of course, the relationships (or lack-there-of) between Rose and Dimitri and Lissa and Christian keep things interesting, and adding the element of Adrian, the spoiled royal Moroi who is also a Spirit practicer, has consequences on both relationships.  Plus, there is a HUGE ending…and you’ll just have to read the book to find out!

Reaction: When I started the book, I was really excited.  I had been waiting for this for what seemed like forever though it was only a matter of months.  Then, about 200-250 pages in, I started getting impatient and a little annoyed.  There didn’t seem to be much development.  Little things, sure, and now that I have read the whole things I realize how essential many of these little things were to the story as a whole and also how they could potentially be important in the future, but I was beginning to feel like this book was just going to rehash things I already understood–Rose’s devotion to Lissa but the scary consequences of their bond and the fact that Rose may never have her own life; Rose’s frustration over her relationship with Dimitri; Lissa’s need to practice Spirit despite the many negative consequences; etc.  Once I hit page 335, though, it was full throttle to the end.  WOW!  Let me say this, I cried like a little baby with snot and all.  I have become very emotionally invested in these characters, mainly Rose, and she has gone through so much hurt already…but there is so much more to come.  Despite how I was saddened by parts of the end, I was also heartily relieved by other parts and very glad to see the quest that Rose is about to embark upon.  She needs this!  Ok, that’s all I’m going to say, well, except for this: READ IT!

What’s Next: A yet-to-be-named 4th and 5th installment slated to be out in 2009 and 2010, but when specifically, that’s what I want to know!  I guess we will all have to continually check Richelle Mead’s website to find out.

Other Reviews: From another V.A. fan, The Story Siren.

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