October 6, 2012

Shine by Jeri Smith-Ready

Release Date: May 1, 2012
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 399
Series: Shade
#3
Review Source: Bought copy


Synopsis: (from Goodreads)
In this dramatic conclusion to the Shade trilogy, Aura and Zachary’s relationship sizzles as the secrets of the Shift are revealed.

Life can change in an instant, and no one understands that better than Aura. It’s been almost a year since her boyfriend tragically died. She’s finally letting go of Logan’s violet-hued ghost, but not her search to uncover the truth about her past.

As the first in a generation that can see ghosts, Aura is convinced she has a connection to the Shift. She’s trusted Zachary, ever patient and ever by her side, with all that she knows. But when the government threatens his life in an attempt to learn Aura’s secrets, she will stop at nothing to protect herself and the one she loves...even if that means betraying her own heart.

My Thoughts:
Don’t ask me why it took so long for me to post this review because really I have no idea. Because do you know how much I was anticipating this book? I pre-ordered it months and months in advance, and then when I realized the release date was upon us and I wouldn’t get my book for another week or so? I totally bought the eBook as well, and devoured it that afternoon and evening. I really don’t think I left my spot the entire time I was reading it. I was absolutely riveted. To be that enthralled with a book you’ve anticipated so much and built up in your mind? That takes talent, and Jeri Smith-Ready has it in spades.

I LOVED this book, absolutely ADORED it. It was the most perfect ending to a trilogy I’ve read in a very long time, or perhaps ever. The series was such a journey for these characters, full of twists and turns, and ‘Shine’ is no exception. In this book the mythology of the shift is examined and explained, and emotional character arcs also take place.

There are so many perfect Aura and Zachary moments in this book, and believe me when I say that they are very hard earned but so worth the journey. I also adored how ‘Shine’ is so filled with Logan’s spirit and memory, while also allowing Aura to move on. There was such a perfect mixture of this, and Jeri did it so beautifully and sensitively.

I almost can’t think of another series where I’ve fallen so in love with the characters, and this book was the perfect goodbye. It really has so much of anything you might want in a book: crazy action, mythology, friendship, and an amazing romantic connection as well. This is absolutely one of my favourite trilogies ever, and I can picture myself re-reading it over and over again.

The Cover:
Honestly I never really loved the old covers, and I don't really care that much for the new covers either. However I do love the colour symbolism, and how very Aura-like the cover model is.

Rating:
[5/5]

Find Shine by Jeri Smith-Ready on Goodreads, Book Depository, & Amazon.

5 comments:

  1. I LOVED this book, absolutely ADORED it. It was the most perfect ending to a trilogy I’ve read in a very long time, or perhaps ever.

    You said it! I think that's why I have yet to write a review of it because I don't think that I could do it any justice in a review! ;)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I have a couple books like that, where I had to sit on my feelings for a bit. It's so hard to say why a book worked for you, I think because it's such a personal thing.

      Delete
  2. I have heard the best things about this series! I have no idea why I haven't read it yet. I have the first book just staring me down from my shelf. I am so happy that you loved this book as much as you did. I really need to start this series.

    Thanks for the great review, Ashley and I hope you had a good time on your vacation :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh yes, please check it out soon! I started reading this series when I wasn't really a fan of paranormal at all, and it quickly became one of my faves. I love how the world feels so real, with the ghost element layered on top. I can't say enough great things about the series or about Jeri Smith-Ready, who is one of the most gracious and giving authors I've ever had the privilege of communicating with.

      And thank you -- yes, my vacation was fab! I should try and remember to do a post about it. =)

      Delete
  3. I wasn't a huge fan of Shade, but it made me curious about the rest of the series. I'm tempted to try the other books. I'm definitely a Zach fan, so it's good that Aura and Zach have many good moments.

    ReplyDelete

Thank you so much for taking the time to comment; I appreciate each one!

LinkWithin

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...