From Goodreads:
Everything about Jessie Gillmansen’s life changed when her mother died. Now even her hometown of Junction is changing. Mysterious dark things are happening. All Jessie wants is to avoid more change. But showing a hot new guy around Junction High, she’s about to discover a whole new type of change. Pietr Rusakova is more than good looks and a fascinating accent—he’s a guy with a dangerous secret. And his very existence is sure to bring big trouble to Jessie’s small town.
It seems change is the one thing Jessie can’t avoid.
You know what? I had no idea that this was a werewolf book, let alone a paranormal book. I didn't know a thing about it, other than that I like the author as a person a lot. I had this book and the sequels on my TBR list, but hadn't ever read the summary.
I know, bad girl.
So I went in thinking this was some type of contemp and that it was going to be full of heavy issues.
Never fear, that didn't last long. I figured out what was really up quite quickly and enjoyed the ride that came along after that. It was one of those 'read in a few hours' types that made me wish I had the 2nd book handy so I could just keep going.
And, of course, my library's website is down so I can't even request the next books yet!!! Gah.
Anyway, I really like what Shannon is doing with this series. I think it was a benefit for me to go in without knowing anything, because everything was a surprise. Plus, werewolves. My new paranormal crush. I'm SO done with vampires, so it's really awesome to find something else to take their place.
I liked Jessie quite a lot. She reminds me of myself, actually. She puts everyone else above herself, sometimes to the point of being like a martyr, and I know I can get that way. (I'm not saying that's necessarily a good thing...martyrs get on everyone's nerves...I try really hard to restrain that.) I found her very relateable and believable.
Also, Pietr.
Really, I shouldn't have to say any more than that, but for those who haven't read it, I will. Pietr is awesome. He's dark, brooding, hotter than you-know-where, and he's Russian. Helloooo, smolder. He's also a genuinely good person. I liked him from the start. (Jessie didn't, which cracked me up...also, be careful what you wish for.)
I liked the fast-paced story and I liked where it ended. To me, it felt like the perfect place to take a breath and then dive in to book 2...which I will be doing as soon as the library is open on Monday.
Overall, I liked this one very much. I'm excited to find a new series and a new paranormal love. It gets a 'Pick Me' rating for being awesome!
Language: Moderate
Sexuality: Mild
Violence: Heavy
Mature Themes: death, bullying, keeping secrets, transformation (personality-wise)
Find Shannon online:
Goodreads
Website
