Switched
Amanda Hocking
Release date: January 3rd, 2012
by St. Martin's Griffin
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When Wendy Everly was
six-years-old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to
kill her. It isn't until eleven years later that Wendy discovers her
mother might have been right. With the help of Finn Holmes, Wendy finds
herself in a world she never knew existed - a world both beautiful and
frightening, and Wendy's not sure she wants to be a part of it.
*A copy was provided by St. Martin's Press for review purposes*
Trolls!
I know, right? Flashy colorful hair, so-ugly-they're-cute dolls we all
had at one point? In Amanda's world, these are all misconceptions.
They're called Trylle, and they're beautiful, magical and on the brink
of extinction.
With an entirely unique lore, Switched is able to stand out from all
the other paranormal books available. I was fascinated by the Trylle
mythology: How they lived, the monarchy, their custom of switching
babies at birth. It was absolutely creative. Into this world comes a
collection of commendable characters that are both well developed and
easily likeable - even a select few that are fun to hate. Wendy has a
big personality. She's had a difficult, traumatic childhood, but that
only made her stronger for the wear. She doesn't let anyone manipulate
her. She's sympathetic and kind. All of which make her really relatable.
I enjoyed going through her dilemmas with her. The stressful demands of
becoming a princess overnight, the boy she's falling for- it was all
delightful. Almost like a modern day fairy tale.
Yes! The wonderful boys! From sweet to sweaty, Wendy has got more
than her pick of lovely bachelors to chose from. I absolutely loved how
the romance was played out in Switched. It's passionate and
heartbreaking. It doesn't fall with the clichés of today's YA novels.
It's unexpected - true to life. Truthfully, I devoured it and I can't
fathom choosing a team. She can have them all, right?
While there is still good story development, I did find some parts
of the book were a bit slow. A good portion is dedicated to character
and world building, however the book does not completely suffer from
"first book syndrome" it does have its own beginning, middle and end,
but I think the rest of the trilogy will be much more action packed
with powerful plot twists.
With this admirable debut, Amanda Hocking has begun a trilogy that
has immense potential. Switched is just as beautiful inside as it is on
the outside (definite cover lust) and I highly recommend it!
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| 4 Hot Espressos |
