Under My Skin by Shawntelle Madison
Series: The Immortality Strain #1
Publication Date: December 9, 2014
Date Read: November 22, 2014
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
I received an advance
reader edition of this book from the author via Net Galley for the
purpose of providing an honest review.
4.5 Stars!
I picked this book up and was immediately hooked. It is a very good thing that I did not have any plans on the day I started this book because this was the kind of book that is almost impossible to put down. This book first came to my attention on Goodreads where I noticed it was getting great reviews so I immediately requested a copy from Net Galley. I avoided reading any reviews that gave away any part of the plot and I am so glad that I did because this book really surprised me with the direction it took.
I loved the characters. Tate Sullivan is a tough 16 year old girl. She is in no way helpless and is willing to fight when necessary. She has not lead a life of privilege prior to being thrust into the world of the Guild. Where other girls would be dazzled by fancy dresses and servants, Tate misses her family and her previous life. Her cousin, Zoe, whose life has taken an almost identical path as Tate’s, is equally tough while other girls, like Eva, are eager to enter the world of the Guild.
I was so happy to read a Young Adult novel that did not have a major focus on romance. There is just a bit of romance in this book. I really wish that the romance was not a part of this story. I actually think that it took a bit away from the main plot. I honestly do not believe that Tate would have been worried about any romantic feelings in the situation she is in – just my opinion. The bit of romance is really what stopped this book from being a 5 star read for me but it is really so minor in the total story that I think most readers will not be bothered by it at all.
I recommend this book to everybody. I suspect that this story can easily be the next big thing. I was only halfway through this book when I told my 14 year old that she needed to read this one. I really think that this book is one that can appeal to a very wide audience. This is the first book by Shawntelle Madison that I have had a chance to read. I can’t wait to read the next installment in this series.
I don't think I'd ever read a book with a face on the cover… I hardly ever like them. I know it's bad to judge a book by its cover, but really, what else do you got to judge on?
I'm glad you like it though, and the review is really good (:
– Love, Felicia
( http://asillygirlsthoughts.weebly.com/ )
Thanks, Felicia! This is a book that is so much more than the cover. The cover is not a good representation of the story at all. When I first saw the cover, I passed by this book as well but once I started seeing such positive reviews I took a second look and I am so glad that I did.
I do enjoy a good romance in a story but if it's not a focual point…that's okay too. It's a beautiful cover which doesn't seem to match the blurb but hey, at least the story was good! Fabulous review Carole! 🙂
Thanks, Cristina! I love a good romance myself but I don't think romance needs to be a part of every story. I think the cover is gorgeous. You should definitely pick this one up if you get a chance.