Endlessly by Kiersten White
4/5 stars
HarperTeen, 2012
385 pages
YA Paranormal
Source: Bought (an autographed copy!)
Possible spoilers for the first two books
First book Paranormalcy was one of my favorite reads of 2011; however Supernaturally left me a bit disappointed. How would Endlessly leave me? Although Paranormalcy remains my favorite of the trilogy, overall I thought Endlessly was a pretty good conclusion to the trilogy, bringing a satisfying end to Evie, Lend, and all the paranormal characters we've met over the course of the books.
The biggest surprise to me was the changing of my feelings for Reth and Jack, two characters I really didn't like. Somehow though I began to see them with different eyes and appreicate what they added to the story. I'm still confused how Reth is Evie's ex-boyfriend when it kind of seemed more like he preyed on her when she was vulnerable but that is what he has been called multiple times so this time I just let it go. As one of the fae, he is still playing a long con where he needs Evie but he also shows more of the effect being around humans has had on him. Jack meanwhile had pissed me off during his introduction but knowing what we know about him now, he was much more charming to me. They definitely have personality and charisma to keep you hooked!
Another great thing was that Evie and Lend are firmly together. She's not sneaking around and lying to him like she was in Supernaturally although their relationship is by no means easy. There are several new challenges but the two don't give up. However I did find Lend rather dull this go-around. I just don't know that he has much to him beyond his shape-shifting abilities and devotion to Evie, both cool things but certainly not enough to make me swoon in the best book boyfriend way.
Still with all these pluses, I almost feel like the novelty of this world has worn off. What charmed me in Paranormalcy did not this time. The humor didn't make me laugh as much and the world didn't feel fresh. I thought the book dragged a bit as I waited for Evie to make the decision she had to make and I grew a bit tired of her delaying that.
Overall: If you liked the first two books, you're going to want to finish the series. I definitely recommend reading all three back to back if you can.
Cover: Love the purple-this series certainly has great covers especially for those of us who are suckers for a pretty dress.
I haven't read this last one yet, I really enjoyed the first book and like you thought that the second one was just ok. but, for some reason I have no desire to pick up this one and finish the series, thanks for the review, I am glad it leaves the series wrapped up and hopefully someday I will read it lol.
ReplyDeleteKristin @ Young Adult Book Haven
I have only read the first book, which I absolutely loved.
ReplyDeleteI feel you, I wanted Evie to hurry up and make her decision as well, but for the most part I was satisfied with Endlessly.
ReplyDeleteGlad that it was a good conclusion. I need to read this series, I have heard so much about it... not enough hours in the day, I am telling you.
ReplyDeleteHappy reading,
Brandi from Blkosiner’s Book Blog
Glad you liked this one. Sad to see it end thought. Great review. :)
ReplyDeleteJenea @ Books Live Forever
You perfectly describe my feelings for Lend. And my confusion about the Reth "boyfriend" thing. And the feeling that the world is a little stale and it's all a little forced at this point. I haven't read the third book yet, but those are the top reasons why. I'm glad to hear that you liked it overall though, and I'm especially glad to hear you warmed up to Reth. Or maybe I shouldn't be, because I like Reth (even though he's very bad and bad for Evie) and if you like him now I wonder if I'll like him less :P
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