Review: One time when the person on the cover really looks like the character in my head.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 4, 2013
FUN.That's the one adjective I can use that covers this entire story. It was so much fun. Yes, there is danger and intrigue. Yes, who should Nickie believe? Yes, occasionally I wanted to scream at everyone else just like Nickie did, but really, This Was Fun.I don't think I get to say that about a love of YA novels. Our heroine, Nickie (a drama kid which I totally relate to) is so normal and fun and strong and just real. She misses her dad (who disappeared almost a year ago), but doesn't give way into pages and pages of angst. That's refreshing. She looks out for her mom and tolerates her little brother (those interactions always made me smile). She doesn't immediately give into the gorgeous Xavian (which kudos to her because I would have). She's just great.The stuff that bugged me in New Pride was not present in this story. The characters were fleshed out so much better. The explanation of the were-cat world was developed and nuanced in such a way that it made sense (I love paranormal logic).I'm gonna be a bit swoony here. I really liked Xavian. Yeah, he had some broody moments, but he was funny and quirky. I love that. I get sick of 'Angel-type broody, my life is so torturous' love interests. Xavian was hot (I can't believe I'm using that adjective, but really, I kinda have to) and protective and had his own unique sense of humor. The chemistry between he and Nickie is quite palpable. Lots of kissing and I couldn't blame her one bit.I liked the story: the discovery of being a shifter as well as the impending battle to protect family and friends. I liked that Nickie realized that death was part of her new life and she wasn't just 'okay' with that. And thank you, Ms. Diamond, for having loss in your paranormal story. As much as I hate losing characters I like, I find that loss creates a better, more true and dangerous world.  And I really did like that character.Randomly, I wish I could have seen Nickie play Lady Macbeth because that would have just been fun. And I'm awaiting Tiffany's story, Ms. Diamond. You better write her story or I will not be pleased.