Spellbound by Cara Lynn Schultz

 

Spellbound

Author: Cara Lynn Schultz

ISBN-13:  978-0373210305

Publication Date: June, 2011

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Book Length: 324 Pages

Acquired by Me:  NetGalley

 

Description Courtesy of Goodreads:

“What's a girl to do when meeting The One means she's cursed to die a horrible death?

Life hasn't been easy on sixteen-year-old Emma Connor, so a new start in New York may be just the change she needs. But the posh Upper East Side prep school she has to attend? Not so much. Friendly faces are few and far between, except for one that she's irresistibly drawn to—Brendan Salinger, the guy with the rock-star good looks and the richest kid in school, who might just be her very own white knight.

But even when Brendan inexplicably turns cold, Emma can't stop staring. Ever since she laid eyes on him, strange things have been happening. Streetlamps go out wherever she walks, and Emma's been having the oddest dreams: visions of herself in past lives—visions that warn her to stay away from Brendan. Or else.”

My Thoughts:

Unfortunately, I’m a little behind in reviewing this title from when I first read it. Initially, I ranked it pretty high, but now that some time has passed – I think my enthusiasm has waned a little. It is good. Pretty standard pattern for the storyline though. Cute, smart girl with little adult oversight in her life. She’s given a great deal of license to do what she wants and that entails mixing up with the “I’m a bad boy with a streak of sensitivity” hottie at her new high school.

Brendan is a typical pull you in, push you away sort of guy, who plays with Emma’s emotions like there is no tomorrow. They do have great chemistry and they do get their happy ever after. I think that was what drew me in as a reader.

With respect to the plot and structure, I thought that was all shored up well. Cara Lynn Schultz does write a good story. The premise to the book was interesting, although the smattering of witchcraft felt a little unnecessary to me. She fleshed out her characters well. The supporting cast was well-balanced (perhaps too predictable) and complimented Emma and Brendan.

Overall, I don’t have many complaints – I just think that personally, I’m looking for a different hero these days. I want a stronger guy, but a little less tortured and mean to the heroine. I think it could work and still keep an audience. Does anyone know of any good recommendations for the type I am describing?

I would recommend this book for all those who enjoy reading the trendy young adult fiction that seems to be popping up all over the place. I think it’ll keep your interest and give you some good down time to spend reading.

________________

The thoughts expressed in this post are solely based on my personal opinion and have not been influenced by any other entity or being. Use of my statements may not be reproduced without permission from me, the author of Fall In Love With Books.