Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Bloodlines --> Worth reading until the very last line

Game changer!  That's the only way I can describe the last four words of BLOODLINES.  No ifs, ands, or buts about it.  Sure the book is about Sydney and Jill trying to cope with all the changes in their lives at Amberwood Prep but it's the relationships outside of school that we want to know about.  How does Adrian fit in?  Is Eddie going to play a role?  Will Sydney and Jill break out of their shells?  How will this series play out?  If the last line is any indication, fabulously...

Here is my review, courteous of Romance Junkies...

Title: Bloodlines
Author: Richelle Mead
Publisher: Razorbill
Release Date: August 23, 2011
Blue Ribbon Rating: 4

Sydney Sage’s life was turned upside down when she decided to help Rose Hathaway while she was stationed in Russia. Now she has a chance to redeem herself by protecting the Moroi queen’s sister, Jill Dragomir. However, keeping her alive is the least of Sydney’s problems. Who said high school would be easier the second time around?

Sydney Sage’s life as an Alchemist has completely changed since returning from Russia after “assisting” Rose Hathaway. Although she was absolved of any wrongdoing, some have labeled her a vampire lover. As an Alchemist, she is supposed to be a human observer who protects humans from the vampires. The Alchemists also have a deep dislike for vampires which test Sydney’s loyalties. Imagine her surprise when she is told her next assignment is not only to guard a Moroi but Jill Dragomir, the sister of the reigning Queen. They are sent to Palm Springs, the most unlikely place to find a Moroi and Alchemist in hopes of preventing any further assassination attempts and enrolled in Amberwood Prep. However, Sydney soon learns that fitting in can be just as deadly as surviving a stake to the heart.

BLOODLINES is the spin-off series to Ms. Mead’s popular VAMPIRE ACADEMY series. With a mixture of old and new characters, she brings back Sydney taking center stage. She has a lot of issues to work through and deal with. Even though she doesn’t regret her decision to help Rose, it has complicated her life by crippling her career and ostracizing her. Her spirit is crushed by her father, her sister and even by herself. It isn’t until she is at Amberwood and free from the Alchemists, her family and around people who aren’t linked to her past that she becomes alive. The mystery is a bit contrived but it does move the overall storyline for the book. However, there is an bigger picture that Ms. Mead always has for her books and BLOODLINES is no exceptions. If nothing else, the last four words will TOTALLY be worth it for any fan. Talk about a curve ball!!! I cannot wait for THE GOLDEN LILY.