FALLING UNDER by Gwen Hayes

Publisher: NAL
Date published: March 2011
ISBN: 978-0-451-23268-7
Young Adult Paranormal
Paperback
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by Publisher


Theia Alderson has lived a sheltered life, not able to enjoy the same freedoms she sees other teenagers in her town of Serendipity Falls enjoys. The only thing she finds pure enjoyment in is this boy who captivates her in her dreams. But when she spies that boy in her school, Theia has no idea that her life is about to change. Will it be for the better, she has no clue? All she knows is that the mysterious Haden draws her like no other and Theia will find that there is more to Haden than meets the eye.

FALLING UNDER is an engrossing story that will enchant you till the very end. This was the first book I read from Gwen Hayes and I absolutely loved the story of Theia Alderson and the mysterious Haden. The story flows nice and smooth with a few plot twists that keep you guessing as you flip the pages to see what happens next. This author really delves into her world building with gusto. I loved the way she slowly introduces everyone and keeps the suspense building as she lets the readers, alongside Theia; find out whom exactly Haden is and if he is harmful to her. The writing is tight, story engrossing and the characters quite complex.

The cover alone caught my eye even as I tried to not flip the pages quickly as I raced along to see what would happen next for Theia. Ms. Hayes has written a darkly riveting story that will leave you breathless. I literally lost track of time as I read Theia’s adventure as she finds herself falling for the mysterious Haden and knows she places herself in danger over that forbidden relationship. The character of Theia was at times a bit underwhelming yet she grew on me as I continued with the story. As this was a debut story from Ms. Hayes in the YA Genre, I am hoping that Theia has a little more spark in future stories.

FALLING UNDER is a wonderfully part gothic, part paranormal story that will appeal to readers who like a little grittiness to their paranormal stories. Ms. Hayes does a great job in setting up her Falling Under Series and I found myself eager to read more once this was done. If you are looking for a different type of YA Paranormal story, then take a look at FALLING UNDER. It will defiantly keep you highly entertained on a summer afternoon.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.