Review: Very torn about this book.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 23, 2013
Let me begin with saying that I have read every single one of Ms. Olsen's books and have truly loved each of them. As an avid urban fantasy and paranormal reader I've devoured books from author's all over the genre. I feel that my reviews are pretty solid, and are typically written for my top starred novels.If you read this book and felt a little torn, you are not alone. I'm still a little baffled about the direction this series is going, and will trust our author to take us in a meaningful direction. . .This book just didn't do it for me. After the events of the last book, I was curious how Anja would move forward after a major heartbreak and separation from Bishop. I've loved Anja's character and the cast whom fill her world through three books, but this edition felt like filler.In fact, I'm having the dreaded sense that our heroine is going to become like Sookie Stackhouse, with love interests coming and going on a whim.Spoilers. . .One minute Anja is pining over Bishop, then she is being swept off her feet by Jakob, "boom" he disappears from the scene, and "wham" all of a sudden Rob is the new potential love interest. I can appreciate the feel of a good supernatural soap opera, but geez, this was out of character for our girl and it felt rushed as far as character motivation was concerned.I was totally getting caught up in the Jakob storyline and was just starting to see where it could benefit the story arc and all of a sudden he's dismissed, all to bring back Rob (Who I've always loved), then bam Jakob buys her a house and we're on our way to a whole other plot line.  I had literary whip lash.Anja continues on her path of self discovery, from following Bishop around like a lost puppy, to being Jakob's petal, we start to see an inner strength as she begins to truly find her place. Starting her political path as Jarl, she begins offering sanctuary to those in need and starts opposing the ways of the oppressive Order.  All wrapping up with the crew in LA where the vamp council is choosing the new Elder.I enjoyed the banter with Rob and was glad to see their relationship growing. Discovering more about his character made this read worth the time.Eh, I am sorry, but I really expected more from a trusted author, most of this book felt like a novella to me. I'll keep my fingers crossed for a better read next time. . .