Guest Review- Forever and a Giveaway

Donna and I met when I worked at the library near the high school where she taught. She was kind enough to let me join the high school book club she began and we partnered running the meetings. I instantly felt a connection with her as she loves YA as much as I do and is such a wonderfully, kind and genuine person. She is also tons of fun to be with and we have the same sense of humour. I'm so happy that even though we no longer "work" together, she's become a very dear friend.

Her Review of Forever:

Forever by Maggie Stiefvater

Published by Scholastic

July 2011

Summary:

The thrilling conclusion to #1 bestselling Shiver trilogy from Maggie Stievater

In Maggie Stiefvater's Shiver, Grace and Sam found each other. In Linger, they fought to be together. Now, in Forever, the stakes are even higher than before. Wolves are being hunted. Lives are being threatened. And love is harder and harder to hold on to as death comes closing in.

I am sure that book enthusiasts would agree that trilogy series are standard fare these days. I am also sure that book enthusiasts would agree that finding a perfect trilogy--with all of the compelling writing, magical storylines and emotional peaks--is not the norm. I cannot imagine the pressure that these authors face. Being responsible to readers for upholding their commitment and expectations would make me crumble!

All I can say is quite simply, "Bravo, Maggie Stiefvater." The Wolves of Mercy Falls is a series that is worth reading. This final installment was amazing.

The continuing storyline of Grace's entry into her existence as a wolf and Sam's desperation to know that she is okay remains a powerful draw in Stiefvater's final novel, Forever. Their love for one another does not diminish; however, they are forced to deal with the realities of their situation and how living partly as humans and as wolves will impact a future together.

The additional storyline of the relationship between Isabel and Cole is phenomenal. In fact, it is this parallel tale that I was deeply connected to. The character of Cole St. Clair is irresistible--his intelligence, sarcasm and vulnerability is a lethal combination!

All four characters are forced to make significant decisions as the townspeople (led by Isabel's father) have committed to a cleansing of the wolf pack. As Cole finds himself closer to creating a serum to "cure" the transition from human to wolf, it is really a race to see if everyone can be saved.

Yes, this is a romance; yes, this is a story about werewolves. However, Stiefvater treats her readers with respect. This is not a sappy melodrama. This novel (and series) shows incredible dedication to character development and takes its readers on a satisfying journey filled with feelings of suspense, loyalty and hope.
Thanks so much for doing this review Donna!!!

As some of you might recall, I was fortunate enough to attend a signing event with Maggie in July. I picked up an extra copy and had it signed to giveaway here.

I have one hardcover of Forever signed by Maggie to giveaway.

For your chance to win, leave a comment on this post, with your contact info.

You must be Age 13 or older

U.S or Canada only please.

For an extra entry in the giveaway- you can tweet about this post and show your link below.

Winner will be chosen at random on August 20th 2011 and then contacted by email.

Good Luck!