Darkride

Darkride Chronicles #1

by Laura Bradley Rede

Ander McNair used to be the favorite son of a great monster-hunting family – until he was bitten by a werewolf and the hunter became the hunted. Now anything that makes his pulse race, even a kiss from his girlfriend Cicely, is enough to turn him into a monster. When he finally has his chance to earn his cure by killing a vampire prince, Ander finds he has to choose between his own past and the future of the girl he loves. Can a guy who’s not even human learn what it means to be a man?Luke Marianez used to be an immortal vampire prince – until the witch he loved betrayed him and cursed him with the ability to die. Now he lives in the world of vampire blood bars where the waitresses are the drinks, and dreams about killing the last of the witch’s line so he can live forever. But revenge doesn’t just mean breaking the curse. He wants to break the girl's heart, too. Can Luke seduce Cicely without falling in love himself? Cicely Watson doesn’t believe in werewolves or vampires. She’s not even sure she believes in true love. But she’s about to discover what every werewolf change.

Genres: Paranormal, Young Adult, Vampires, Fantasy, Romance, Witches, Werewolves

411 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 9, 2011

About the author

Laura Bradley Rede grew up the oldest of nine kids in a small town in Maine. She now lives in a little hippie-punk neighborhood of Minneapolis with her wonderful partner, their three amazing children, one Great Dane, one dachshund, and four city chickens. She is a winner of the Writers of the Future Award for fantasy and science fiction and the author of the YA paranormal romance DARKRIDE, and its upcoming sequel CROSSFIRE, as well as many YA short stories. She often quotes Bela Lugosi, the original Dracula, who said “I have never met a vampire personally, but I don’t know what might happen tomorrow.”
After all, a girl can dream.

www.laurabradleyrede.com
www.darkridethenovel.com

Reviews

[Fred · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, I honestly did not expect to love this book so much! I am a bit of a recovering horror/thriller fan, and for me the Twilight books were sort of the culmination or apogee of my fascination with vampires, werewolves and their penumbra, rather than the beginning of it. I've become sort of a "quiet contemporary" fan, a devotee of Dessen, an acolyte of Ockler, a worshipper of Webber (Tammara, that is!), and thought I'd put my wild and woolly neck chomping days behind me. But then I encountered Laura Bradley Rede, courtesy of some clever and thoughtful posts on a friend's fb page, and was intrigued. When I learned she was an author - an indie YA author, no less, my favorite! - I had to check out her book, albeit (please forgive me, Laura, I didn't know!) with some trepidation vis-a-vis the whole paranormal thing, which is not really my thing. So, I started in. The Goodreads summary does a good job of conveying the basics of the story, so I won't try to repeat that. It's told in rotating POV's of the three MC's: Ander, the werewolf; Cicely, the "normal" girl (she doesn't know she's a witch yet!); and Luke, the vampire prince. This works really well to draw you into the story and the characters, since they all have secrets they are keeping (or think they are keeping!) from each other (gosh I love secrets in a story!), but which you, dear reader, are made privy to via said narrative device. It also really draws you in to the motivations, the personalities and the drama of each of these MC's, who are individually and collectively an irresistably charming bunch. Side note - the supporting characters are great too, all of them (although I had a particular soft sport for Emmie) and some who seem rather peripheral come to have fairly big roles in the plot. They also do a great job at filling you in on the author's inventive and interesting vampire mythology. Anyway, when the two male MC's were introduced as a vampire and a werewolf, and Cicely seemed to be a rather typical lovestruck teen, bemused and bothered by their bizarre behavior, I thought I had a handle on what was going to happen. Boy was I wrong! These characters never cease to surprise you with their depth and resourcefulness, and man, they are going to need every bit of it to handle all the plot that Laura throws at them! The twists just keep coming, and they not only propel the story like the "darkride" of the title, they keep you absorbed and frantically turning the pages to see what happens next. I love it when authors use literary works to shed light on characters and to move the plot forward, and the use of Romeo and Juliet and a suite of fairy tale images seem fresh and fun, which isn't that easy with these familiar works. But that is the beauty (and the beast? sorry!) of this book, it takes tropes, characters and themes that you might think have been played out, and combines and reworks them in inventive, gripping and imaginative fashion. For some reason this reminded me a little of the The Princess Bride in the way it plays upon and reinvents a classic genre to great effect. It's also not without its touching and lyrical moments of cinematic and poetic description, and genuine emotion between not only the MC's but some of the supporting cast as well. This really was a pleasure to read from beginning to end, and although there is a literal cliff-hanger at one point, the author is kind enough to end the story with some closure, but also at a great launching point for the much-anticipated sequel! Even if you think you prefer contemporary to paranormal, this is an enjoyable, relatable and fun take on a seemingly familiar, but still fresh, scenario.

[Jen Meegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Full Disclosure Ahead** I edited a near-final manuscript of this book. After my read-through, I told Ms. Rede I'd like to write a review once it was published. I typically don't do this for authors I've worked with/for (conflict of interest) but I enjoyed this story so much, I decided to throw caution to the winds.

So let's see...here we have yet another YA book about vampires, werewolves, and the girl who loves them....a girl who may be harboring some special powers of her own. And a love triangle. Ho-hum, right? Thankfully, no. Let's discuss.

Main characters. Cicely, Ander, and Luke are deep, complex, compelling individuals. This is a multi-point of view novel that alternates between the three leads. I usually avoid multi-POV books because I find the change in speaker/perspective distracting and rarely done well (as in all the characters sound like each other). But each had their own distinctive voices, quirks, and motivations which helped me dive into their respective chapters without a hitch. Cicely is strong without being over-the-top about it. How refreshing to come across a female lead who has a spine and a brain but doesn't suddenly turn into a martial arts expert or a pile of mush around the male leads. Ander and Luke seem to be headed for the "rival supernatural guys" category a la Twilight but the similarities are surface only, especially as we get detailed glimpses into their backstories. Luke slowly becomes more sympathetic without losing his hard edge, and Ander's boy-next-door vibe gets turned on its ear as his story unfolds.

Supporting characters. Generally speaking, this is where many books go from great to good. Authors often get so caught up in the main characters that the supporting cast comes off as two-dimensional and only seem to be there to push the plot along. Not so here. The parents (or parent figures) are believable and don't simply fade into the background when needed. The friends (and frenemies) break out of the stereotypical molds with some interesting (and often surprising) backstories of their own. Many of them show unexpected depth and complexities not often found in secondary characters.

Plot. This book reads like a film. It's action packed with smooth transitions from chapter to chapter, tons of clever humor, tragedy (but no melodrama), some truly harrowing suspense scenes (I'll never look at the Mall of America in the same light again), and elaborate world building without any huge, gaping inconsistencies. It's hard to imagine someone could possibly come up with a fresh, new take on werewolves and vampires without making them aliens from outer space (and I think this may already have been done somewhere), but Ms. Rede takes things in some new directions without losing the tried and true elements many of us have come to expect from these supernaturals. And the ending? Well, prepare yourselves. All I can say is I can't wait to read the next book.

Chemistry. Yes, it's there. In spades. The whole love triangle thing is an overused plot device...but I enjoyed it here. I never felt like one character was the obvious throw-away (like Jacob was to Edward) and I'm genuinely having a tough time choosing between the two of them. But I imagine each will garner his own fans. I also was pleased to see that Cicely didn't just toss her common sense out the window when the boys expressed interest in her...certainly, her judgement is lacking in some areas but nothing beyond what I'd expect to see in a teen. And she works hard to stay loyal to those who have earned her trust...the "big misunderstanding" plot device is rarely employed in this book because Cicely is too honest and direct a character to go for any of that nonsense.

If vampires and werewolves are your thing (or were your thing but you can't imagine there's anything left to say about them), give this book a try. You'll likely be surprised, as I was, that this is Ms. Rede's first full-length novel.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Updated review 1/31/13: When Crossfire, the second book in this series came out, I realized that I had forgotten too much of the first book to give the second book a fair shake. So I reread and enjoyed Darkride even more the second time. I read it slower this time and reacquainted myself with the characters and what had happened to them, the choices they made and the results of those choices. I love that the second read of a good book is much more zen. Instead of focusing on what happens next, I get to focus on what is happening now.

I have been reading far more young adult lit since my first reading of Darkride than I had read prior, and by comparison, Darkride ranks above and beyond the average. It has a very solid structure, clear distinct characters, color, action and romance, not to mention minimal typos and great grammar. It is deliciously long but not as guilty of stretching the story with filler as I find Stephenie Meyer's works to be, much as I love the Twilight series. Speaking of Twilight, having just finished re-reading the first two books from the Twilight Saga, I find Darkride lighter, sweeter, more feminist and more appropriate for preteens. I have no qualms about my 12 year old daughter reading Darkride and am relieved that I don't feel the need to have any critical thinking "talks" with her after she reads it. Oh and she is really into Darkride right now!

One of the things Meyer does well in Twilight is what I referred to once derisively, now with respect, as Teddy Bear Porn. In sum, Darkride is appropriately and sweetly erotic for readers who are too young to be thinking about sex below the waist.

This book is very much focused on world building: showing us the internal logic to a parallel universe of magic into which our protagonist Cicily stumbles through her first romance and then - drumroll please - the love triangle. Love triangles in young adult paranormal get a bad rap from some YA reviewers as overdone, or as cliched Twilight wannabes. However, I feel the triangle in this story is absolutely essential to the storyline. There is no Edward or Jacob in this story. Ander and Luke are quite unique. Neither is repressed and noncommunicative. Each has his dark side and his charms. Cicily can not go wrong here. I cannot imagine the story without either of them and each is well-developed and quite appealing to your average young straight girl, including the young straight girl who still lives inside me. I cannot even decide which one I would choose!

First review 1/1/12: Reading this book was like having the perfect love affair. It starts out slow and steady, much like the friendship between the first two protagonists the reader meets.

Ander is a young werewolf who has been ostracized from his werewolf hunting family and lives with two male vampires who have taken him into their home and fostered him. Edit: correction after second read: one of the "foster dads" is a vampire, the other is a "thrall", a human who loves to be bitten. (Are the vampire men gay? Or just "bonded", a phenomenon in vampire lore that I had not previously encountered. Bonded vampires must remain together or they cannot survive. I love this and other creative additions to vampire lore.)

Cicily is a brainy girl who is more attractive to the opposite sex (and species) than she thinks but she just wants Ander, whose werewolf identity is a secret to her. Enter the romantic rival, Luke: a hot, old-school romantic vampire with suspicious motives. What's a girl to do when the boy she loves withdraws while she is being wooed by a slightly dangerous hottie? It's just a great romantic set up.

The character development is detailed, the story flows beautifully with both an internal logic and lots of surprises. Eventually the narrative climaxes with a spectacular high stakes contest/chase scene in the Mall of America, the 8th Wonder of the World. I don't even like the Mall of America, myself, but the description gave me a new appreciation for its dazzling behemothic awesomeness. I think the author succeeded in giving me a teen's eye view of that place.

Freshly minted vampires and werewolves make the perfect metaphorical teenager. Driven by impulses they don't fully understand and have no idea how to control, they may start with simple motives--get the guy, kill the girl . . . but their feelings and discoveries always complicate things. Everything could go in one direction or another, at any given moment and a small decision could change one's life permanently. There are times of great despair when it seems like death is the only answer, and yet around the corner there is always another answer. Typical teen angst is beautifully, cleverly imagined in this tale.

And the end which is also a beginning . . . well let's just say I WANNA KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!

(This review originally appeared on my Amazon reviews.)

[Tina Reber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent YA fiction with a totally fresh spin on the vamp/werewolf/human love triangle.

[Miranda Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Some days all you can ask is that you stay human." (Page 65).


Darkride is one of those books that you sit down to read, and find yourself physically incapable of stopping until it's done - and when it is, you still are burning to read more. From the beginning of the story, it immediately structures dynamics that leave the reader marveling at the world rising up all around them, exploding from each page in hand. The push-and-pull of the "no questions" and "I won't say it, but I love you" relationship between Ander and Cicely. The financial-struggle and being satisfied with less going on in Cicely's modest home with her mother. What's real and what Cicely had always accepted. The coldness of detachment from humanity over outliving lifetimes. The ability to become human again. What love could possibly inspire. Changing when history seems to repeat itself. Luke's mastership to Marcus's servitude. The love and chemicals of a bond or a bite. Ander fighting his nature and Luke embracing it, while they both hide it. Cicely's love for Luke and love for Ander - similarities, differences, weights - what each means to whom. Revenge. Love. Choices. Change. The entire book unfolded and blossomed, meanwhile I was spellbound and enraptured.



Darkride managed to address things far too overlooked in the literary word: real lifestyles, consequences, the gritty emotions - even considering what a teenager's insecurities would be if instead of dealing with the typical self-image, also coped with a supernatural secret worthy of self-loathing - and taking that issue and applying it to questions people should ask themselves more: What is change? What is choice?




You feel so bad for Cicely, knowing she loves Ander and is hopeless that he can return it. In the same way, you pity Ander and his circumstances - while absolutely adoring him for his fervent morals and passion. In another way, you both pity and fear Luke for his pain and hurt, and how he has chosen to respond to it. In the midst of pity and love and fascination, because sometimes their lives become a breathtakingly train wreck where you simply cannot look away, the reader swoons over Ander and Luke, roots for Cicely, wishes that Emmie and Zoe - hilarious, loyal, and fabulous in their own ways - were their best friends, or that their parents were anything like Cicely's adoptive mom or Ander's makeshift fathers, Danny and Micheal.




The build-up has the reader looking over their shoulder, fingers twitching at the edges of the page, dying from the temptation to jump ahead but too engrossed to thoroughly consider it. As the plot unfolds, each new concept reduces the audience a heart pounding mess, sitting between forks in the the tracks and staring at the train head on, wondering where it's going - and then, the loud, tanking thing manages to pull off into a blind spot, taking it's leave and leaving you breathless.




Everything from the multiple points of views (perfectly structuring one of my all-time favorite "love triangles" ever!) to the clever character dynamics to the perfect pacing and brilliant writing are all potent symptoms to what eventually became a feverish case of "BESTFLIPPINGBOOKEVER". The character development is fantastic, and I love that you don't even need to check the chapter heading to know whether Luke, Cicely, or Ander are narrating, because their voices are so distinct. And yet, are still smoothly intertwined enough so that they never fail to surge the plot forward or transition between one another. My absolute favorite thing about it? In addition to the pacing, POV switching, and present-tense-writing being executed flawlessly, everything in this book was just done right. Despite being about vampires and werewolves, it complete eludes and avoids cliche - while I love my Were-Vamp darlights, they often fall victim to 'been there, done that' or redundancy. That is definitely not a problem with this book. I've never read anything exactly like it - which is an experience I cherish from any novel that meets the quota. This story was told about realistic teens in believable relationships with supernatural conflicts. The characters were likable, lovable, or at the very least pitiable, even when you want to reach into Darkride's world and smack them over the head, in theory inducing the "OMG Why Can't You See This?" epiphany. Themes of eternal love and (literally) "dark rides" are woven-in perfectly with the awesome Shakespearean Romeo & Juliet references. The dynamic of Cicely-Ander-Luke tugs at the reader, making them ache like a love triangle should. And, at the end of it, I couldn't pick a team any more than Cicely herself! Every compelling chapter drags the reader through the book by the ears, each an intense bit closer to the edge of the seat. I loved, loved, loved Darkride - and offcially am declaring it in my Top 10 of 2011. Highy, highly recommended!




I recommend Darkride for fans of Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith, Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow, The Morganville Vampires by Rachel Caine, Fate Fixed by Bonnie Erina Wheeler, Wanderlove by Belle Malory, Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr, The Sookie Stackhouse Series by Charlaine Harris, Evermore by Alyson Noel, The Nine Lives of Chole King by Liz Braswell, and My Blood Approves by Amanda Hocking.


View original review here: http://ricochetreviews.blogspot.com/2...

[Monaliz · Rating 5 out of 5]

My rating: 4.5/5 stars
Read the review in my blog!

May contain some spoilers
I know, it took me ages to write this review. But you know what? I've noticed that if the book is really good, it's hard to write a review. Because I can't just make a list about the good things. Or I don't want to. But I'll try to write something that makes sense.

I think my first thought might have been "vampire and werewolf fighting over a girl, where I've heard that before?". If you thought of that, don't let that stop you from reading this book!

Seriously, you have to read this.

Especially if you love love triangles, steamy moments and heartache, this is the book for you!

Before this I read a book where was this whole "in-love-with-my-best-friend"- situation, and I just loved it! So I was glad when the book started with the same situation.
But, then enters the mysteryman! And we'll get some huge twists and turns and you just want more! You just can't get enough.
I'm always happy when you don't know what's going to happen next, and that's the main reasons why I fell in love with this book. Book starts with some what common settings, but prepare yourself for some surprises!

Also, prepare yourself for the sobbing. It was quite embarrassing, since I was visiting my father-in-law, and I tried to hide behind laptop and sob there in silence, otherwise it could've been quite awkward..
Especially since towards the end the sobbing just increased.

I also appreciated fluent writing and functional dialogues. Author also managed to describe characters' life outside dialogues, which was refreshing.
For example, I think I've never met a character who lives in a trailer. Ander's life was also quite exceptional, and I was happy to see this part of him, even though this part especially will break your heart in the end.
Anyway, this brought certain depth to the characters, and was a big part of character development. Again, job well done!

I was really surprised when I finished the book. I didn't expect that kind of outcome, especially since I didn't realize this was just the first book in the series! So after I was finished, I googled like crazy.
And was so happy when I found out there will be another book! Seriously, nearly had heartattack.
And why is there half of cupcake missing? Guess I feel little confused about the ending. Otherwise the writing felt really personal and intimate, but not so much in the ending. Luckily, it was only prief moment, but then the book was over and I still felt confused and nearly cried again. But now I'm just excited, I can't wait for the second book!

Now, get yourself a copy and prepare yourself for some heavy crying! And after finishing the book, cry some more, because this book leaves you craving for more! But the second book hasn't been published yet, so you'll just have to wait :)

Love,
Monaliz @ Mind Reading?

[Samantha **ParaNormal Romance Party** · Rating 4 out of 5]

** 4 STARS***

Review:

1st line in the book---> The boy is a mystery to me.


There is no lie in the title of this book! Darkride keeps you guessing from the moment you read page one. Author Laura Bradley Rede does a great job of keeping you hooked till the very end.

This story is Dark & Intense filled with teenage Angst, Love and value of friendships. There is a major love triangle between Luke the vampire, Ander the werewolf & Cicely the human, but this is no Twilight romance. That's as close as it come when comparing, instead Cicely is mature enough to know what she feels and fights to keep her boys and friends safe from the evil that comes after her.

I really enjoyed the characters!! They each keep surprising you throughout the book. Of course I love both Luke and Ander because they are so different and in their own way win over the reader. I will say that for me the story hooked me in the beginning but it took a while to finally get to the part where the action kicked in. There were times where I would get annoyed with Cicely in the beginning because she would give up real easily, or make assumptions but I had to remember that she's a loner and a teenager...it wasn't until halfway through the book where she becomes the strong heroine and I cheered!! LOL

OMG!!! The side-characters were I think my favorite! They are wonderful and you get to know them and their history. Just when I was getting slightly tired of all the love triangle drama, they brought a breath of fresh air to the plot. I was totally blind sided when there was a shocking revelation near the end of the book!! I really couldn't believe it at first, I don't want to spoil anything so I will just say it left me heartbroken...

Overall I really loved this book! We are left with a climax, hanging on to every last word. I can't wait to see what comes next.


Fave Quote:
Yes, I am addicted to the girl. I am finally immortal again but I feel more vulnerable than ever, as if I carry my heart outside my chest. I would die for her, if dying were still an option. But since I cannot give my life, I must live it, and I will not live it anywhere but with her

[Delphina · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first saw this book on a friend's blog, I was immediately drawn to it. It looked like it would be something a bit different. Plus, let's face it, the cover is made of awesome. During the first couple of chapters, I have to be honest, I thought this was going to be one of those YA books with a "canned" story arc. I was so wrong. The story took me all sorts of places I never expect to be and I enjoyed every minute of it. I also enjoyed that it was told from three very different points of view. I believe there will be a sequel and I hope it is as well done as this one. I will be first in line to get it when it comes out.

I'll tell you what I liked about this story:

* I never really knew what was going to come next and when I thought I did, I was often wrong. Were there some cliches? Of course, but that makes it fun?

* This story had one of the most romantic background stories I have read in a long time. When the story of the umbrella is told, my heart melted a little bit. I also love that the author felt comfortable giving such a heartfelt story to such an unusual couple.

* I love how the mythology used was a bit different from the typical were and vamp mythologies.

* In a lot of ways, this story is about family. What creates a family? Is it birth? Who raised you? Who you make a family with?

* With the exception of the true bad guys, all of the main characters are decent people doing the best they can do do what is right.

* I would feel comfortable suggesting this book to a teen, which is not the case with many of the YA books I have read lately. There are some heavy topics addressed (heavy from an parental perspective), but they are all done well and there is nothing sexual, graphically violent, or drug related.

* It definitely had the "I do not want to put it down factor".

* The three points of view really added depth to the story line.

* The story ended at a good ending spot with an open window for more adventures. I really hope those adventures will be shared with us because I really want to read more!


Overall, I was super happy with this read and am looking to more!!!!



*

[Alexa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here's how I was introduced to this book: My friend posted a recommendation on FB and said, "I know what you're thinking. Vampires, werewolves, love triangle? Been there, done that, no thanks. But this one is like nothing you've read. Get it! You will devour it."

So I did, even though I was sure I had no interest in vampires, werewolves, and love triangles. But she was right. When I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. I don't want to say too much, because there isn't much I can say that wouldn't be a spoiler on some level. I cried at one point. The end made me... angry. I didn't want it to end that way. I didn't want it to end at all! That's how immersed I was in the lives of these characters. It's scarier, sexier, more well-written, and far, far less vapid than that *other* vampire/werewolf/love triangle you've heard tell about.

The plot twists are intense. It's hard to pull off this much action without feeling forced or silly, but nothing in this book felt forced or silly to me. I loved it. This particular vamp world is a lot different from other stories I've read or seen on TV lately, and the background info is delivered beautifully. The world-building is great.

There are *some* elements that might have... flowed more smoothly (?) if this were a traditionally pubbed book instead of a self-pub. Some of the "edges" are just a tiny, tiny bit rough. For me, this was a bonus, not a detractor. I'm tired of overly predictable, cookie-cutter, safe YA. Again, I can't go into details without adding spoilers, but suffice it to say that some of the plot twists would probably not have survived an editor's red pen. Especially toward the end. But, as I said, these are bonuses for me. In the YA genre especially, the best I've read lately has been self-pubbed.

For those who fear self-pubbed books, don't. Especially in this case. The editing is near-perfection. Honestly, there are fewer typos here than in many traditionally pubbed ebooks.

Now I just have to wait for the sequel.

(There is going to be a sequel, right? RIGHT???)

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was better than I expected it to be... A crazy supernatural love triangle that had me rooting for both of the guys at different times... The ending really left me hanging on what is going to happen next- hope the second book come out quickly!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just, wow. This book sucked me in from the beginning. The characters were so real and captivating and the plot kept me guessing the whole way.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

See more reviews like this at The Book Asylum

Darkride has been sitting on my kindle for what feels like ages. At this point, I don’t even remember how I got turned on to it. Maybe a goodreads review? Whatever it was had me downloading it right away. I loved the cover, I loved the book description. But, as is the case with many of you, the number of awesome books hanging out on my kindle just waiting to be read far outnumbers the hours I have to dedicate to actually reading them. Anyhow, I follow Laura on facebook and her status updates as she writes the second book are so entertaining, hysterical, and just generally awesome. So, I decided to jump into the world that is Darkride and I fell. Hard. And I think you might too…

Darkride is a supernatural story featuring alternating perspectives from a warewolf - Ander, a vampire - Luke, and the girl they love – Cicely (Cissa). Love triangle? Yes. Same old, same old? No. The setting is Monument, Minnesota and it’s fall at the beginning of Cicely and Ander’s school year. This is my absolute favorite time of year and the perfect time for this book to take place… Halloween – old curses – full moon, you know the drill. Cicely, 16, is in love with her best friend Ander, 17, who is always keeping her at a distance for some reason. Ander loves Cicely too, but has to keep her away for her own good. Luke is vampire royalty who thinks that Cicely may be the key to ending a curse over his family, a curse that Cicely’s distant relative helped put in place. Unfortunately for Luke, every time he looks at Cicely he is reminded of that distant relative, the love he had for her, and the betrayal she dealt him so long ago.

If you think this formula has been exhausted by other authors and series, think again. As the point of view changes and the plot progresses, you realize how unique Darkride is. Rede has created dynamic characters with dialogue, thought processes, and motivations appropriate for their age and unique to each character. I can’t tell you how disappointed I get when I read a YA book with characters whose behavior does not accurately reflect their age. You can tell Rede put a lot of thought into Ander and Cissa, the supporting characters, and Luke especially. His dated ways and age were embraced fully and gave you plenty of opportunities for humor, for endearment, and for compassion. Basically, you’re going to love each of these characters.

I loved that Ander and Cissa appeared to the outside world to be average kids from poorer families quietly making their way through high school. They were extraordinary to each other, but it wasn’t like everyone fell over themselves for these two as we see so often in YA books. Cissa lived in a trailer on the edge of the woods and Ander lived in a house with his unconventional uncle/parents. Their situations seemed realistic to me which really balanced the supernatural elements nicely.

The writing was straightforward and simple making it a very easy read for adults and young adults alike. Whenever I read a book labeled Young Adult (YA), I always think about if I would give it to my 14 year old niece. Many times, the answer is no. If you ever have the same fear that a YA book just isn’t appropriate for the YA in your life, let me assure you that you don’t have to worry about it with Darkride. That’s not to say there isn’t fast-paced action, suspense, and a little bit of romance. I’m just saying it is age appropriate.

The story moved right along at a steady pace. I found it to be exciting with interesting peripheral characters and situations filling out the plot so that it became more than just your average teen love triangle. There were some fun offshoots to the main plot which I really enjoyed as well. The hunt in particular was very fun and imaginative! I found myself laughing in some parts and holding my breath in others and I think you will too. The one twist I didn’t see coming was Cicely’s decision in the final pages of the book. I just couldn't believe after all they had been through Cicely would come to that choice. Wasn't there ANY other way? I really can't say anymore without spoilers, but I’m interested to know your thoughts when you read Darkride. Despite my irritation with her, the conclusion was action-packed and very satisfying. Rede left a whole realm of possibilities for the next book in the series, titled Crossfire. Now, I am left with so many questions… Who will help this band of monster misfits? What is the deal with Five? Will Cicely be with Luke or Ander? I couldn’t come to a decision on Cicely’s relationship choice based on this book and I don’t think you’ll be able to either. Both Ander and Luke are wonderful characters in their own right… I do not envy Cissa’s choice, but I’m thrilled to be able to watch her make it in the coming book(s)!

I would definitely recommend this book to YA readers and adults who love a good story featuring supernatural beings that is chock full of love, mystery, suspense, and action. I can’t wait to read Crossfire and see what happens next with Cicely, Luke, Ander, and the gang!

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

See review on Paranormal Book Fan

This book had me laughing out loud at times but it also brought tears to my eyes. A definite rollercoaster of emotion. A dark ride.

Ander McNair used to be the favorite son of a great monster-hunting family – until he was bitten by a werewolf and the hunter became the hunted. Now anything that makes his pulse race, even a kiss from his girlfriend Cicely, is enough to turn him into a monster. When he finally gets a chance to earn his cure by killing a vampire prince, he finds he has to choose between his own past and the future of the girl he loves. Can a guy who’s not even human learn what it means to be a man?

Luke Marianez used to be an immortal vampire prince – until the witch he loved betrayed him and cursed him with the ability to die. Now he lives in the world of vampire blood bars, where the waitresses are the drinks, and dreams about killing the last of the witch’s line so he can live forever. But revenge doesn’t just mean breaking the curse. He wants to break the girl’s heart, too. Can Luke seduce Cicely without falling in love himself?

Cicely Watson doesn’t believe in werewolves or vampires. She’s not even sure she believes in true love. But she’s about to discover what every werewolf knows:

People change.

You see the words girl, vampire and werewolf and you immediately think "another Twilight rip off". Nothing could be further from the truth. That is about as far as the similarities go.

From the moment I was a couple of pages in, I did not want to stop reading. Written from Cecily's, Ander's and Luke's POV, this just captures the readers attention. It's fast paced and exciting, at times I was on the edge of my seat with my heart in my mouth. It kept me guessing throughout, I had no idea what direction we were going to be taken in.

Cicely is an awesome main character. She is best friends with Ander, but secretly crushing on him. When he lets her down, she turns to Luke, who is only too happy to hang out with her. But this has unexpected consequences for him. Ander and Luke are natural enemies but they both need to make changes and work together for the sake of Cecily. They now have something in common.

Cicely is a normal girl one day and thrown into a world of vampires and werewolves the next. I was amazed and awed at her strength and courage as she dealt with not only trying to save her own life, but also the lives of those around her. I still don't know exactly how I feel about some things that happen in this book, I will have to see how the next one plays out before I can make my decision.

I love Ander and Luke and I'm completely torn between them. Normally I find it quite easy to pick a favourite in the love triangle, usually the guy who got there first, but not here. They are both great guys in their own ways.

I really like Emmie too. She totally loves being a thrall and she is such a happy, friendly person that it would be impossible not to like her. Zoe is also a really good friend to Cicely and she is lucky to have her.

Laura has put her own stamp on the mythology of vampires and werewolves. There are two different types of vampire, the ones who are born and the ones who are made. The ones who are made are undead. They don't heal from their injuries and can be killed by sunlight. The ones who were born are trying to get their immortality back.

I would definitely recommend this book, vampires, werewolves, romance and action, what more could a girl want?

"I press my lips to the curve of her neck, just to prove I am strong, just to prove I can do it. But I can't. I'm going to bite."

[Andrea Randall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stop what you're doing and read this book. I'm a huge vamp-read fan, and this book kept my pulse racing and opened up previously unexplored doors within the vampire-werewolf world.

First and foremost, be prepared for the awesome style. We are treated to the first-person present tense of THREE main characters. Laura lets us climb into three unique heads; one human, one vampire, and one werewolf. Each character has their own feel, their own personal language, and grabs a different heart string.

What I liked most about this book was the layers. We learn a great deal about each character, and how their worlds interact. We're introduced to thralls: humans who act as live blood donors for vampires, and crave the relationship. We're shown a centuries-old curse that affected the entire vampire world.Personally, I would have enjoyed a bit more of the story of Deirdre told from Luke's perspective in the form of flashback, as we only saw her a few times - I feel it would have made me feel more vulnerable toward Luke. Finally, we're thrown into the uber gut-wrenching and uber sexy world of Ander, your resident werewolf. We learn, within his world of hunters and werewolves.

When you learn how Ciceley, Luke, and Ander are connected, prepare for a beautifully heady ride.I kept forgetting that these were high school kids, and I was thankful for Ciceley's tough-as-nails attitude to save the one(s) she loves. As usual, despite my vampy tendencies, I found myself rooting for werewolf Ander. Thankfully there is a sequel due to drop not soon enough! Hurry up, Laura!!

[Paula Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you a fan of Werewolves or Vampires , what about witches ? When I first saw Darkride, I thought it was going to be just another Vampire/Human Love story but as I started reading it and getting into it , I noticed it had a twist to the story. We are introduced at the beginning to Cicely and Ander. Ander is hiding a dark secret - he is in fact a Werewolf and he is in love with Cicely, though he knows deep down that it is too dangerous to be with her as the prophecy known as Five keeps reminding him that something dark and sinister is going to happen. About halfway through the novel , we are introduced to Luke - whom we discover is a Vampire and he has been sent to retrieve Cicely and bring her forth to their Queen Constanza as wait for it ................ Cicely is in fact a Witch as we discover , something that has been passed down through her bloodline and she has been the one prophesied to break the Vampire curse . However, the curse can only be broken when Cicely bonds with Luke. As the novel goes along , like the Twilight storyline we read as Cicely struggles in the choosing between Luke - the new hot guy whose a Vampire and Ander - her best friend whose a Werewolf. "Seem Familiar ?"
So readers , read Darkride to discover which one Cicely will choose - will she wander to the hot-blooded side of Werewolves or embrace the cold with Luke ?
A great novel for those who love Werewolves, Vampires and Witches - Oh my :)

[Kristi Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The more I think about this book, the more I love it. It's really unique and I love Ander and Cecily, and I just can't make up my mind about Luke! Can't wait to read more from this author.

[~Kindred Souls Book Blog~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review for is everyone, but especially those who may be skeptics when it comes to the paranormal/supernatural romance genre. Apprehension, is a one word description of the way I once felt about this genre. Being that in my day to day life vampires, werewolves, witches, and the living dead are not necessarily beings that I believe in or that I relate to. I wasn't sure that I would be able to connect with the characters and believe their story and I need that from the stories I read in order to fully enjoy and appreciate them. For that reason I stayed away from the paranormal/supernatural genre for a while. Thankfully, I live fairly open-mindedly. The saying 'Don't kick it til' ya try it' comes to mind. My apprehension was solely based on ignorance. Ignorance is: simply not knowing or lack of knowledge. I am certain that many other readers out there have or have had the same skeptical pretenses that I once had towards the paranormal genre. Fiction is fiction whether the story pertains to human characters or supernatural characters or both...all are the creation of the author's imagination...and perceived by the reader's imagination.

Darkride is a lengthy novel that captivates your attention from beginning to end. I was sucked into this mysterious, creative, imaginative, intriguing, dangerous world. A world in which humans, vampires, werewolves, witches, and live the living dead exists. I became apart of that world...and I completely BELIEVED! I believed in the characters, the dangers, and the love.

Cicely is a skeptic a non-believer of supernatural being, but her life is turned upside down and her disbelief is transformed as is she. She is in love with her best friend Ander, but is unable to share her feelings with him because she knows he is emotionally resistant to her, but she doesn't understand why. Ander has a deep dark secret that he as been able to keep from Cicely for years, by not allowing himself to be anything more than friends with her. A secret that she is soon to discover.
Enters: Luke!...Gorgeous, charming, chivalrous, and perfect, Luke. Luke has less than admirable loving intentions with Cicley, but those intentions change. A love triangle quickly forms between Cicely and her two supernatural male admirers. There need for her means everything to them...including life and death. They are willing to risk everything for her.

Cicely loves Ander, she's loved him for years and nothing is going to change that not even the revelation of his secret. Cicely is drawn to Luke in away that feels natural as if there is a connection between them with depth and years of existence. She doesn't understand the connection and as it grows is reluctant to admit she loves him. I believe it's mainly due to her stubborn nature and refusal to betray Ander.

Ander and Luke are on opposite ends of the supernatural spectrum. They live to hate each other...live to kill each other...each believing the other is the bad guy.

In this compelling love story the saying 'Love Conquers All' couldn't rein more true. Enemies coexist and join forces to protect the one they have a mutual need and love for. They turn against their own, and risk everything to ensure her safety. ...It truly is a beautiful concept. <3

The characters go to hell in back throughout the story. They are on a dangerous journey, a quest in the name of Love. A true, undeniable, need, mind, body and soul to be with the one they absolutely cannot be without in life or death.

The sequel Crossfire is available now! I cannot wait to see what happens with these characters!...I'll be starting it today!

I recommend Darkride to everyone who enjoys a good read...This book offers a beautiful love story and so much more!

It's a Must Read...

Favorite Quotes
"I've forced myself to stay tied to this human world because it's Cicely's world. Withour her, there wouldn't be a me any more. I'm human because I love her." ~Ander

"'Everyone's going to hurt you, I read, '''You've just got to find the ones worth suffering for.'
~ Bob Marley & Emmie

"I don't want her to die for me. I don't want anyone to." I feel sick. "I want someone to life for me, somone I can live for." ~ Ander

"I cannot live with you, and I will not live without you." His strong hands grip my shoulders, pulling me closer. "I'm sorry, muneca, but dying with you is the only choice left." I feel the brush of his fangs as he nuzzles my neck. "It will all be over soon." ~ Luke & Cicely

"I wish for enternal Love." ~Cicely

"The near-bond between us has been severed. I can feel it pulsing like a phantom limb but I know it will never be the same. I will never bite her again, never complete teh connection that might have been." ~Luke

"Brutally beautiful" ~Luke

"The whole good-bad thing gets grayer for me every day." ~Ander

"People Change" ~Darkride

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a way, this book feel like a quilt. A patchwork quilt, taken from all the other stories of vampires, werewolves and their paranormal trappings. I kept thinking, I've read this, I've seen this. In Twilight, Buffy, True Blood, Vampire Diaries, everything reminds me of something else.

Yet. But yet. There was something different in this book. I'm going to list some quotes, that I liked, which I think will give you a sense of the writing, that brings this patchwork book together.

This is the voice of Cicely, trailing behind the popular girls in the school hallway “Just a few feet behind them, I can't help thinking about a line from the battered Shakespeare in my bag: "A swan trooping among crows." Except in this case it's the opposite: I am a crow trooping after swans.”

Luke “I know I shouldn't turn to look at Cicely, no matter how much I want to. So I don't. But I can't stop myself from looking in the rearview mirror, as if looking at her indirectly will help somehow, like looking at an eclipse.”

Cicely's thoughts “I never really appreciated the self-contained miniature universe that is me. I fall in love with my breathing too late, fall in love with it just in time to lose it, walk into the show just in time for the fireworks grand finale.”

This is Ander's perspective “It's not about whether her heart beats, it's just about whether it loves.”

Luke watching Cicely “I like the fact that she thinks. The human face is so legible that it sometimes seems possible to watch their thoughts, the way you can see fish moving in a lake by the little ripples they make on the surface.”

Cicely's thoughts on fashion “If escaping a lycanthrope has taught me anything, it's the importance of sensible footwear.”

Luke's musing “Ah, yes" he says, "The old story: 'Boy eats girl.”

Cecily again “I feel like I will split like a wishbone, but who will get their wish?”

So there you see an example of...touching, moving, at times funny, really good writing. Writing that means something because it's thought provoking and introspective.

You don't think "why is everyone enamored with this dull girl?" Because she is a person, with interests, talents and hobbies. There's a scene where a vampire boy, and a human girl bond over a selection of classical music, which is SO Twilight-esque....only, in this case, as a violinist, you understand why Cecily would be listening to it, and you understand that Luke used to hang around that crowd a century ago, and that scene makes sense.

In this story, every character, no matter how likable, is capable of, or has done, some not so pretty things. The book is told from the POV of Cicely, Luke and Ander. Everyone has their imperfections, Luke, sometimes acts like an old man, he may be in a teenage looking body, but not in mind, and he's not a nice person by any means. Ander can barely hold it together at any time, which makes him seem, flaky, or uncaring to his friends. I like the realism, the beauty is usually in the flaws.

So, if you are reading this view, I hope I've given you enough information to determine if you will pass up, or read this book yourself.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darkride was an impressive mix of YA Romance, mythological humans, and fairy tales. The book evoked so many emotions from me throughout the book; I felt anxiety, excitement, anger and sadness. Would Ander and Cicely ever be allowed to be together? Would Cicely end up with Luke or Ander? Would Cicely be bitten and become a mythological human? Will the vampires get their revenge and become immortal once again?

Cicely is a smart teenage girl who does not waste her time on hair, makeup, dresses and high heels. She is rather poor, living in a trailer with her adopted mother and keeps a low profile at school. She is completely unaware that her ancestors were witches who caused some havoc for vampires, making them mortal. She soon finds herself being targeted by vampires as a sacrifice for the betrayal of her ancestors.

In Cicely's mind, Ander kept letting her down, especially when he didn't show up on her birthday. If this had been just a regular romance novel, I would have been a little upset with Ander but in this case he was being very unselfish. He had strong feelings for Cicely and did not want to do anything to hurt her physically, even if that meant hurting her emotionally. It is this hurt that sends her in Luke's direction. She accepts his invitation to the dance and it is an action packed night where she learns of vampires and werewolves.

While I didn't really like Luke in the beginning, he grew on me. He eventually realized that Cicely was not Deidre and I felt my heart warm to him. I kept imagining that he looked like a young Frank Sinatra for some reason because of the car he drove, music he loved and the way he talked and dressed.

I am Team Ander all the way. The boy may be a werewolf but he was so sweet I couldn't help but swoon! It wasn't that I didn't like Luke, but if you backed me against a wall and made me pick, I would choose Ander. Ander had only ever loved Cicely for Cicely.

The book was told from various points of view (a different character per chapter) and that kept me in tune with all the characters because I knew what they were thinking, what the were doing and what they may be planning next. I could listen to what one character thought about a situation and then the next chapter, I heard it from a completely different angle.

There were portions that felt like part of a fairytale. When Cicely was at the mall looking for a dress for the formal, I had a flash of Cinderella. Her snobby classmates being the wicked step sisters who stole her clothes and Luke the prince who brought her back her missing boot. And yes, it fit:)

The book is full of suspense. I had to keep reading and reading to make sure that nothing happened to my Ander and Cicely and then I had to keep reading to make sure nothing happened to my Ander, Cicely and Luke.

While not all my questions from the first paragraph were answered, there will be a sequel to Darkride titled Crossfire which may fill in the gaps:)

[Super Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

From My Blog http://mysuperbookblog.wordpress.com/

This is the first book in the Darkride series. I received a copy of the second book in the series to review, but obviously I needed to read the first one before I could read the second. Going into it I thought, here we go, another teen werewolf/vampire story, which it is, but it's also a very good one.

Cicely is the leading girl of the story. You know the type, a beautiful odd girl who doesn't know she's beautiful and the supernatural boys all seem to love her, kind of girl. She isn't some damsel in distress, which I love about her. She's quick witted, smart, tough, and strong minded. She's the type of girl who will do anything for someone she loves. Speaking of those she loves, Ander is on the top of that list. Unfortunately for Cicely, he's secretive and distant even though they are best "friends". Truthfully, she's in love with him and he's in love with her, but given the fact that he's a werewolf who can't control himself, he keeps her at arms length. Ander is very likeable. He's a good guy, kind, caring, smart, strong.....he's just what any girl would want, other than the fact he'll rip you to shreds if he turns.

Then there's Luke. Oh my, Luke. Where to even start. He's arrogant. He's rich. He's beautiful. He's a vampire. Of course he is, all the good ones are, aren't they? At least, it seems that way to me. No matter how unlikable they are, I tend to always pull for the vampires. I guess they're my monster of choice. Anyway, back to Luke. Luke's timing couldn't have been more perfect. He shows up just as Cicely has had about enough of Ander's hiding. Luke has an agenda, a cruel one really, but is derailed by his love for Cicely.

This book is full of energy. It's never dull. You have a strange alliance formed, with sworn enemies, over a common goal and a mutual love. These characters form an eclectic pack that you can't help but get attached to. I'm very much looking forward to jumping into the next book to see what happens.

Did I like the book? Yes

Did I love the book? Yes

Would I recommend the book? Yes

Overall rating? Good

Favorite Quote: "Kill you? No. And in the future I would say, if you suspect someone wants to kill you, you shouldn't follow him into the woods." Luke

[Alanna (The Flashlight Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Calling all paranormal romance fans. (in my taunting sing songy voice) I found a new series for you. I bet even you die-hard Twilight fans would enjoy this one. There is a mortal girl, a swoon worthy vampire, a hot werewolf, and a pack of evil blood thirsty vampires ready to captivate you in Darkride.

But don't think I just described Twilight all over again, because I didn't I can assure you if I had that vibe from Darkride, I would have stopped reading instantly. I am very tired of Twilight knockoffs.

While Darkride had the same human-vampire-werewolf love triangle going on, it was very different. For instant, our human girl was not a whiny baby like Bella. She was pretty hard core. Cicely was conflicted, but she was also very determined. She always had a plan; even if that plan often backfired. The boy toys were also a bit different. They each had different reasons for loving Cicely, and they play very different roles in the outcome of the plot.

What I found a little unfortunate about the book was it's predictability. I don't think that would be a problem for the average reader, but anyone that has read a large number of books will probably be finely tuned to the plot twists long before they occur. With all the hinting about 'change' and the bonds of love, it was easy to guess the direction our characters would take. I really didn't have any surprises, which was a bummer.

I can say, however, that the ending left me intrigued. I am very curious to see what will happen in the next book. I also want to know the role of the new addition to the motley crew of paranormals that are traveling to Maine.

The writing is easy on the eyes and quick. It's very easy to get sucked into the story. Darkride was told in alternating points of view between Cicely, Luke, and Ander. Each chapter offers a fresh insight into the characters telling the tale. I think it's extremely challenging to write alternating points of view and maintaining a sense of uniquess for each character. It could very easily end up sounding like the same story being told by a different "voice." Darkride does not dissapoint. It retains its unique quality and keeps the reader moving on a fast paced paranormal romance rollercoaster.

[Janus the Erudite Artist · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have totally underestimated this book!

When I first got a copy of Darkride, I was completely drawn to the premise. I found it so interesting but I also thought it was mainly a love story. Little did I know that I was in for more than just that.

Darkride started off with a simple setting where our heroine, Cicely was your everyday typical girl. As with most novels, it’s easy to put yourself in the protagonist’s shoes because the author has made her really relatable. Although I have to admit that there are times I feel annoyed with Cissa’s (Cicely’s nickname) decisions, but then again, her stubbornness is what makes her who she is.

Anyway, moving on to the plot. During the part where Ander was introduced as a werewolf and Luke was introduced as a vampire, I immediately thought it was a little cliché. But as I dived deeper into the story, I found that there was so much more into it than my first impression. There’s the history, the thrall, the bonding, the whole curse and so much to take in which I absolutely cherished! I love it when authors come and give a classic story the unusual twist, which makes their books standout. And the whole “there are two types of vampire thing?” – priceless! I really liked that.

One of the best things about Darkride is the shifting of perspectives. You don’t get stuck with just one person’s thoughts so the way things flow are not stagnant. You get to know each character from their own point-of-view and not just from how one person sees him/her.

Another thing is the last few remaining chapters, talk about a climax! And I love it that even though Rede has created a cliffhanger for the next book of the series, she didn’t leave readers empty-handed. She gave a fitting ending that doesn’t leave you completely ignorant of what’s to come but still has that element of surprise, mystery and excitement.

For more of my reviews, please visit my blog:
The Blair Book Project @ www.theblairbookproject.blogspot.com/

[Ally · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Review by Stephanie Nagle for Word Vagabond: Supporting Independent and Small Press Authors.)

As if high school isn’t hard enough, Cicely Watson finds herself in the middle of the supernatural world with her life in danger. She figures out her best friend/secret crush, Ander, has a life-altering secret and there is a hidden world she never even noticed. Add in Luke, the new boy at school, and suddenly she’s in a supernatural love triangle. This story takes her through high school angst and into bodily harm.

The book starts off on Cicely’s sixteenth birthday and she has a birthday wish. If only she knew how complicated her life was going to get, she might have changed her wish. Little bits of information make the reader suspicious right away and grab attention. We learn within the first few pages that Ander is hiding something.

The story is written in first person and the characters are well developed. Unfortunately, the perspective changes every chapter which makes it hard to follow. The change in perspective makes it easier to get inside each character’s head, but it slows down the story as the reader tries to remember who “I” represents in each chapter.

Cicely is a strong character. I kept waiting for her to become the emo teenager, but her spunk and intelligence continued to surprise me. It was her unpredictability that kept me reading.

The other main characters, Ander and Luke, were fairly well developed as well. This is probably due to the change to each of their perspectives that gave the reader more insight. The side characters were quirky and interesting and I find myself hoping to learn more about them in a sequel.

Laura Bradley Rede took on a popular genre and managed to bring in a bit of originality. With stories such as Twilight and The Vampire Diaries, this wasn’t an easy task. If you love the supernatural and you like a fun read, then you will enjoy Darkride.

[Mandy Reads Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So we have Cicely who has been in love with Ander, her best friend for 4 years. Ander has made in clear to her he wants nothing more than friendship from her though. Then there is Luke, the sexy vampire who comes to town to make Cicely fall in love with him, then betray her like her ancestor did to him long ago. And Ander who is secretly in love with Cicely, but cannot do anything about it because he is a monster that could hurt her; he is a werewolf. Yep, that about sums it up. Or does it??

What happens when Ander has to separate himself from Cicely even more in order to protect her? What happens when the vampire who is out to kill Cicely starts falling in love with her, jeopardizing the curse that could make him Immortal again? And what happens when Cicely falls for both guys? *Sheesh* What is a girl to do?

When I first opened Darkride up I saw it was over 500 pages on my nook, I thought ‘good grief this is going to take forever to read’. But once I started the pages flew by. I was grabbed right from the start until the very last word. I loved the characters and the whole plot was positively appealing. Each chapter was a different POV of either Luke, Cicely or Ander; getting their take and feeling what they felt. And just when I thought I was rooting for one guy, I would have a change of heart for the other. I absolutely adored both guys in the story.

Rede brings a new take on Vampire/Werewolf/Loner Girl Love Triangles. It was kinda refreshing thinking ‘Huh there is no way out for any of them...they stand no chance’. *Insert evil cackle here* But is there a happy ending for any of them? Well guess you’re just going to have to read it ain’t ya?

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok...until the end. (possible spoilers here)

First let me say that I loved this book up until the last 15% of it. The writing was descriptive, action exploding on each page, characters well fleshed out...and then I hit Chapter 44... WTH???? I don't get it. Really I don't. The author spends 85% of the book doing the whole "save the cheerleader (in this case witch), save the world" thing and then, well... you have to read it and decide for yourself was it worth it? I loved Ander and Luke both characters grow and discover what means the most to them and which side they choose fight for over the course of the book but Cicely is another story. It almost seems like her character development is limited to one scene and it's bam and done. There's no discovering ones powers and learning to use them, she just has a flashback to her ancestors then acts as a backdrop for the action. There are random plot devices that are not fleshed out. These may be something that will be explored in other books, but it left things too vague. There are mentions throughout the book of how powerful this girl is, yet she shows nothing of this, fights no one and suddenly decides to become one of the enemy at the end. She brought essentially nothing to the table and (seemingly) abandoned everything on a whim. Overall, I liked it, but the ending is just so different from the tone of the rest of the book I'm not sure what to make of it as a whole. I might read more of her works, but I'm not sure I'll read the next in this series.

[Deana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. Love it. As a matter of fact I enjoyed it so much that I am making it my very first “Must Read” here on The Indie Bookshelf, because if paranormal literature is your thing, I think you will love it too. Normally I don’t read a lot of YA stuff but I had heard about Darkride and it kind of piqued my interest.

When I first read the synopsis I totally thought it was going to be another Twilight, but it isn’t. It’s so much better. There are vampires, werewolves and a strong female character who blows Bella out of the water. Yay!

Darkride is told from the perspective of the 3 main characters; Cicely, Luke and Ander. The viewpoints switch chapter to chapter. I really like that telling the story this way added so much depth to the characters, and was a great way to fill us in on a lot of back story.

Luke, (the vampire), Ander (the werewolf) and Cicely (the strong female lead), all find themselves in a love triangle. With little hope of them all surviving the Vampire Queen’s plan to sacrifice Cicely, the three lives become intertwined in ways they never would have imagined. While Luke and Ander fight to keep Cicely alive, and Cicely fights to save the one she loves. You’ll have to read it to find out who that is because I'm not going to spoil the end for you.

Laura Bradley Rede leaves some big questions unanswered because…. There is another book in the series on it’s way! If it’s anything like the first one we are all in for a treat. Book two, Crossfire, is due out later this year.

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness!!! I just finished reading Darkride the first book in the Darkride Chronicles. It was fabulous!! A different take of the girl-werewolf-vampire love triangle. There was angst of who do I root for to win the girl. At times I found myself rooting for Ander, the werewolf. Then I flipped and would root for Luke, the vampire. All the while, Cicely, the heroine of the book, had her own battles to overcome. From the typical teenage bullying and mean girls, to the battle with the vampire queen... This book had me hooked. I could not put it down and had to force myself to not devour it at one sitting. I love how Laura Bradley Rede played off of the love triangle and included the twists and turns to keep the reader suspended and wondering what was going to happen next! I found myself cheering Cicely on in her daily battles with the mean girls at school and then when she was having to battle the vampire queen! Cicely is an endearing character that readers can relate to no matter their age. The heroes, Ander and Luke, make it extremely difficult to just pick one to win Cicely's love. Most YA love stories have a front runner from the beginning of who should get the girl and readers may steer away and root for the other guy, but they eventually go back to their original winner. I love how Darkride kept me flip flopping on who I thought should win Cicely's heart from page to page. I can't wait to read Crossfire, the next installment of the Darkride Chronicles!! If I had to award stars to this book... It would be 5 out of 5!!!

[Sandra (Rather Barefoot than Bookless) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must say that this is not a book that I would have picked up myself given that I did not like the cover of this one in the beginning. But as Cicely Watson thinks, people change and so did my opinion about the cover once i´ve read the book. It´s a really appropriate cover when you know the story. This is a book that I instantly fell into and could not tear myself away from it because it was that good. Laura keeps you on your toes and you really don´t know what might happen or who Cicely will fall for in the end. At least I didn´t.
So, to the characters.
Ander is soo loveble that you can´t not like him! He really is a nice guy who just happens to be inlove with his best friend, but of course they can´t be togehter because of who Ander is. At least thats what he thinks. He really struggles with himself and you really feel sorry for him in a lot of ways.
Then we have Luke, the vampire prince who seems to have everything. I just love him too. He is mysterious, hot and otherworldly. Who doesn´t want that?
Last but not least we have Cicely whom I also like. She is just your average teenager who thinks about grades, boys *caugh*Ander, and her best girl friend. She is very relatable since she is just so normal. When the story evolves she really steps up and you see that she is very brave and stubborn.


For those of you who might not like the cover like myself, pick this book up and read it because it was THAT good!!

[Once · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first read the blurb about Darkride, I was a bit hesitant but intrigued because it has aspects of Twilight in it, with it having aspects of Werewolves, Vamps, and Humans.

The blurb itself gives alot of info on what the story is about . Cicely has had a thing for Ander for a long time, but hes just her best friend right now, Ander has been in love with Cicely for a while now but he cant do anything because he is a werewolf. Then in comes Luke, the vampire prince that has some unfinished business in town. This is one of those books that keeps you intrigued and doesn't let up with the twists and turns in the story.

The book is told in 3 different perspectives of all 3 of the Main characters. I loved that each time it switched it shed a Lil more light on the story and how each of them were feeling. It was done perfectly even though you were wanting to hear just a little bit more from the previous persons POV. One of the things I absolutely loved about this book wasn't that it was about a human girl having mixed feelings about supernatural beings, it was the fact that even through all of that, her and Ander were still just teens with protective families. There is a very romantic back story that made me just tear up. One word: Umbrella.

Oh man, I really loved this book with its fairy tale qualities mixed in with real life / fantasy. It was done beautifully and it still seemed fresh and new in this ever growing popular genre. Loved this book.

[Kathy Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very enjoyable young adult paranormal with lots of romance including a very realistically done love triangle. The story is told by three narrators: 1) Cicely is your normal teenage girl except for the part she doesn't know - that she is the descendant of witches and is the subject of a prophecy whose death will allow some vampires to regain their immortality; 2) Ander is Cicely's best friend and secret crush who is keeping the secret that he is a werewolf who loses himself at the full moon and whenever he feels any strong emotion; and 3) Luke who is the vampire who wants revenge on Cicely because he was betrayed by her many times great grandmother who cast the curse that cost his family its immortality.

The viewpoint switches on a chapter by chapter basis between the three characters. Each chapter is their first person account. The story was filled with action, tension, difficult decisions, and touching romance. I was swept away by the story and the characters who were well-rounded, realistic people. I think I fell in love (at least a little bit) with all of the characters. I can easily see Cicely's dilemma. Both boys are completely lovable with their strengths and weaknesses and both love her. Fans of paranormal romances will enjoy this one and be looking forward to the sequel - Crossfire.