Wednesday Reads: Hush, Hush

If you took Twilight, twisted it slightly, and added fallen angels instead of vampires and werewolves, you would get Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick.  Which is probably why the book has been so popular.  You've got teen drama with a more worldly issue combined with teen passionate (irrational) romance.

Synopsis:

"Romance was not part of Nora Grey's plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how hard her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch comes along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Patch draws Nora to him against her better judgment.

But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is and seems to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.

For she is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those who have fallen -- and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost Nora her life. "

First line: "Chauncey was with a farmer's daughter on the grazzy banks of the Loire River when the storm rolled in, and having let his gelding wander in the meadow, was left to his own two feet to carry him back to the chatteau."  From the prologue.  Sets up everything just right.  You also have a small impending sense of doom--obviously something is going to happen to Chauncey.  The first line and prologue are text book examples of good lead ins. 

Beefs: I have a hard time buying into the whole teenage love thing.  Lust at first sight, more like it.  But it's what sells, and Fitzpatrick nailed it.

Brownie Points: Originality.  In a world obsessed with vampires, Fitzpatrick came up with something that stood out, while still conforming to what people wanted.

Ending: Semi predictable, but satisfying.

Recommendation: If you are craving more Twilighty stuff, read it.  I wouldn't rush out and tell everyone I know to read it though.

Would I represent it? Probably not.  I think stuff like this is losing its fizzle, and they will be less in demand in a few years.  So probably not.

Happy reading!