Showing 1-4 out of 11 reviews. Previous | Next

• What else can I say about Kelley Armstrong's books that I haven't already said? So far, I have enjoyed every single one of her YA novels and have been compelled to pick up her adult novels as a result. The Calling has continued what The Gathering started with its absorbing writing and riveting plot. As The Calling literally picks up right where The Gathering left off, it almost feels as though I'm writing a second review of the latter. Since I read them back-to-back, I was treated to a seamless storyline that just kept getting better and better.We really get to see Maya in her element in The Calling. As she and her friends wander through the wilderness, it is Maya who takes on a strong leadership role. Her talents with all things nature are brought to the forefront and Maya really stands out as a result. While the others struggle with their situation, Maya keeps her head together, showing just how strong and resourceful she is. I could easily have continued following her story had the third book been available right then and there.The plot became even more intriguing in The Calling, which I didn't think was possible. There are even more revelations about the goings on in Maya's town, as well as its citizens, each more intriguing than the one before. The element of danger is quite tangible and the urgency of escape is understandable. The revelation of certain characters' true personalities and intent was so very shocking and I loved the layers it added to the story. Overall, I was absolutely thrilled by the storyline and can't wait for the culmination of the series, just so I can know what happens to all of the characters I have become so interested in.I can't express enough how much I have enjoyed the Darkness Rising series so far. I enjoyed The Gathering immensely, but The Calling was even better with its increase in action, plot revelations, and character development. The setting is near flawless and makes for an even more riveting story. If you want a series with strong characters, paranormal elements, and non-stop action, you definitely need to pick this one up. The Calling, as a middle novel, won't let you down in the least.

  5.00 out of 5

  MarlaSTNC

• The Good Stuff Kelley is a truly gifted storyteller - she sucks you in from the first very paragraph and has you wanting more at the end Maya is a truly enchanting realistic character. She has flaws, but she grows and tries her best Fabulous dialogue and dry humour So much character development goes into each and every character - all very distinct Plenty of twists and turn & OMG moments I love the dog & whenever he is put in peril I am at the edge of my seat going no please don't hurt him The author really understands what it is to be young The world she has created is so fascinating She gives you a summary of the first book in the series for those new to the series without boring those who have read it Love that its set in B.C. - yes we Canadians love that shit -- we have issues about being ignored The relationships between the friends on the run is honest and realisticThe Not So Good Stuff Missed the parents in this one - they were cool and involved parents - that is so rare in YA books (Yes I am bitter LOL!) How long do I have to wait till next book - damn, this sucks reading these books so in advance of actually publication date (No not complaining - pls send me next ARC LOL!)Favorite Quotes/Passages"And if there are teenagers who actually respond to adults shouting at them, I've never met one." "Yes, you are. We just need to get this done, then you can have a breakdown. I'll join you.""Yes, ma'am." He leaned down toward my ear. " I like when you order me around. It's really hot.""Right." A soft, choked laugh. "Kind of ruins the dramatic effect if I'm storming off in the wrong direction, doesn't i.""You were saved by a girl. Horrible, isn't it?"He slid out and looked down at my bare legs. "Not just a girl, but a half naked one. Not that's hot. If I'm still unconscious, don't wake me, okay?"Who Should/Shouldn't Read Like most of Kelley's books, you could read this and not be lost from not having read the first book in the series -- but do yourself a favor and get the first boo Fabulous for both the teen and adult reader 5 Dewey'sI received this from Random House in exchange for an honest review

  5.00 out of 5

  mountie9

• I love this series! Now that the foundation has been laid (The Gathering) I loved that this book gave much more details and insight on the characters!What I liked most about this book is the plot line. Filled with lots of action and on the run scenes, this book took me for a great ride. I really love how in depth this book got. So many questions I was wondering about in the first book were answered in this one. Also, many other questions were raised.The characters in this book go through lots of changes.I adored how each of them figure out the connections with one another and how they helped each other out. Another thing I am so excited for this book is when all the characters finally meet. Ms. Armstrong did a fantastic job in the plotting of the characters meet up. As a fan of the series, I am totally satisfied with the way the series is headed.The Calling is amazing book that show great strength in it's progress. I couldn't be happier that this series is written so amazingly good. A stunning fusion of action, adventure, and jaw dropping secrets, The Calling is an jem!

  5.00 out of 5

  Bookswithbite

• My Thoughts: I LOVED IT. The setting being so close to home was something new and exciting that I want more of!If any of you don't already know, I live in a city about an hour out of Vancouver, BC. It's a rarity that my family travels over to Vancouver Island, but we do occasionally. Reading this book was so great. If you are from BC, especially the Lower Mainland to the island region, I can assure you that you will definitely appreciate some of the humor directed to our suckish weather, (a.k.a our TERRIBLE winters). Those of you who live in tiny, tiny towns will probably appreciate this book as well. This was actually one of my favorite parts about the book, because I could relate to a bit of how Maya was feeling about her environment. The setting was realistic and enjoyable. I could almost see the forest Maya loved so much and smell the many trees she so enjoyed.There is the feeling of absolute isolation and at times I had to 'wake up' and remember that I don't live in Maya's town.Now onto the story. This is the first book I have read of Armstrong's. I tried reading her Darkest Powers series but couldn't get into it that easily. That being said, I was hardly hesitant about reading this book. The plot sounds interesting enough and once again, the setting intrigued me. Reading the blurb, the story sounds like your generic teen paranormal with the epic bad boy and the mysterious powers. But while those two aspects are true, this book is not 'generic'. I was expecting something a lot different than what we got. For example, the cougars were a nice change in animals. I think everyone's so used to reading about wolves that even the smallest thing, like having a feline instead of canine can make the book just that much more unique.I really liked Maya. She was funny and strong, while still vulnerable. She falls hard for Rafe, even though she doesn't think it's that great of an idea... Rafe is definitely a great love-interest. I'm curious to know more about him as we don't find out a lot in this book. I also really enjoyed the importance of Maya's heritage. It's an interesting twist to put into a supernatural type of book. Here's a girl with two incredible adoptive parents. She seems to act pretty uninterested in her background, but on the inside she's craving to know more. Then there's Daniel. I'm definitely hoping that the author won't make a love-triangle with him and Rafe and Maya. There were little hints to that, but nothing seriously worrying. Though, I cracked up at the suggestion of Maya's father buying Daniel a new truck just so that he'll marry her.This was a truly incredible book. I've got The Calling on my shelf, ready to go as soon as soon a I post this, because the cliffhanger was almost unbearable. Well, no. The chapter sampler in the back of my paperback version is what made the wait a bit excruciatingly painful. I usually don't read those, but something made me keep reading. Oh well!

  5.00 out of 5

  jazzcat15

Reviews provided by Librarything.

No reviews here.