Review: Action, mystery, and Paranormal smashes together
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 19, 2013
Whoa ... whoa ... whoa ... Stop the presses ... No, start those babies up!I'm not even certain where to begin. Do I begin with the awesome idea of this unknown entity ... the mystery of the Hunter ... the pain and agony Ems goes through. But this isn''t your normal run of the mill fantasy. It stands out, bringing to light the internal struggles of this young woman trying to survive after a life of torment. Ems grasps a hold of the light in her life even as she spirals into this unknown world.The world is based upon our modern world. There's different forms or abilities that each type of monster seems to wield. Entwined into this is the Tribune (Chaser, Catcher, Hunter) who hunt them down. The idea of this living amongst us is quite fascinating and Ketley Allison did a wonderful job at bringing it too life without the dreaded info dumps typically witnessed in the genre.Emily (Ems) gosh, I fell in love with her. Her pain and ache became real, and I felt it ripple through me. She could be any one of us or anyone we know. She survived a very trying childhood and embraces her friend, boss, and her aunt. The human side of her is a mirror of how most of us would react. Well done on her -both sides- of her, and I hope her story continues. Asher ... He's not your average "book boyfriend" in fact he's not anyone's boyfriend. He gets under my skin though, but I'm a no spoilers type of gal. But he's pretty darn real with how men tend to react in the real world. He'll make nice eye candy, and at times you almost think he cares, but then he becomes the ice king. I understand why he does this but I can't tell you. He's still a very intriguing and complex character that I can't wait to see develop.This isn't a love story, although the series may develop into one in the future, but it really doesn't need it. The tension between Asher and Ems is enough to fuel your inner rumor mill and to draw some conclusions - which I love. This is also a darker themed fantasy, but completely suitable for  YA, NA, and of course adult readers.Ketley Allison's writing is a fresh and welcome change. She wasn't afraid to delve into the darker depths of humanity. I enjoy fearless writing, because it's an art form that needs to breathe and mold as the author sees fit. Can't wait to read more.