Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready

Don't forget my contest closes tomorrow. Go here for details.

I know I gush about books, loving them. I do I really do, but this book has made me fall hard and in love. In fact, I'm putting it on my list of favorite books. What is this book?
Title: Shade
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 320

The blurb:
Love ties them together.
Death can't tear them apart.
Best. Birthday. Ever. At least, it was supposed to be. With Logan's band playing a critical gig and Aura's plans for an intimate after-party, Aura knows it will be the most memorable night of her boyfriend's life. She never thought it would be his last.
Logan's sudden death leaves Aura devastated. He's gone.
Well, sort of.
Like everyone born after the Shift, Aura can see and hear ghosts. This mysterious ability has always been annoying, and Aura had wanted nothing more than to figure out why the Shift happened so she can undo it. But not with Logan’s violet-hued spirit still hanging around. Because dead Logan is almost as real as ever. Almost.
It doesn't help that Aura’s new friend Zachary is so understanding—and so very alive. His support means more to Aura than she cares to admit.
As Aura's relationships with the dead and the living grow ever complicated, so do her feelings for Logan and Zachary. Each holds a piece of Aura's heart…and clues to the secret of the Shift.

My take:
Yeah, the cover had me at hello, I will admit, but this book is so much more. I love ghost stories and this one had me turning the pages so fast I wanted to read it again when I was done. Aura is a great character, very realistic and likable. She's not perfect and neither is Logan, her boyfriend. I think that is what made them so real. They were not angels. Of course, Logan is a hottie, but that's just me. So is Zachary (he had a Scottish accent, I'm just sayin'.) 
Anywho, The whole plot to me was intricate, yet, seemed simple. I think the way the author wrote it made it easy to understand.
It took place in Baltimore, Maryland. A place I've been several times so I could perfectly imagine where they went. Philly was also mentioned (yeah). There was also a lot of references to Ireland and Scotland (places I would love to visit.)  
The end had me with my mouth open, wanting more. My wish is about to come true because on May 3rd, The Shift will be released. **lets out big breath** Not sure I can wait that long.

Do I recommend this: Absolutely
Contains: great characters, intriguing/thought provoking plot, hot boys, great setting, and ghosts-- who doesn't love that.

 Has anyone read this?
Let me know you thoughts.
Have a great day!