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The Maura DeLuca Trilogy #2
Undertow: Death's Twilight
Maura finally found the truth she was always seeking…or has she?
After being left in the dark for all of her life, Maura’s father, Maxwell, has finally returned to reveal sinister family secrets Maura could never have dreamed possible—including his revelation that she is one of The Born. But his daughter soon discovers both he and her mother are keeping pieces of her reality hidden, still. As Maura struggles to unravel the mysteries surrounding her new existence and discover every piece of the cryptic puzzle, life appears intent on casting stumbling blocks across her path with every step forward.
Tragedy seems to stalk Maura, and those around her, as she stumbles along, altering the young changeling’s family, just when they have all come back together. The changes left in its wake could be for the better, or may threaten their existence, entirely.
With the arrival of Christmas comes the opportunity for Maura to draw close to everyone she loves—and finally reunite with Ron, her long-distance boyfriend. But permanence has always eluded her, and in her current state of flux this pattern endures, as fate seems intent on snapping the threads that bind her to those she holds most dear. Maxwell’s good intentions pave a road for Maura, littered with misery, while her mother, Caelyn’s, desire to shield her family from pain may tear her away from them, altogether. The perfect happiness in the young vampire’s grasp is so easily swept away and dragged under, out of reach. Can Maura erupt from the darkness and confusion to break the surface and find the life she’s always dreamed of?
In the midst of chaos, assistance materializes in the form of another of her kind—ephemerally beautiful, yet explosively volatile, this new vampire may prove capable of unlocking the puzzle-box Maxwell seems intent on securing from her sight. Maura will discover the darkest parts of herself in her quest to understand the being she is destined to become. Her newfound friend has some shady intentions of his own—such as thwarting the love that has grown between Maura and Ron. Following in the wake of the impulsive vampire’s misguided instruction may further pull a naive Maura down into the depths of ultimate despair, heartbreak…and even destruction.
Undertow: Death’s Twilight is the second book in the Maura DeLuca trilogy and the sequel to Rising Tide: Dark Innocence. In this dark, urban fantasy, readers will discover a world full of uncommon vampires, troubled romance and a splash of blood—and uniquely devoid of werewolves. The rollercoaster that is Maura’s life continues in this YA, paranormal novel that fans of the Twilight series, Vampire Diaries, and Vampire Academy will love. Reminiscent of the classic Fairy Tale, the characters introduced in this series are at the other end of the spectrum from the vampire found in the age of Bram Stoker and his famous Dracula. Although there are ties to the myths created by Stoker and his timeless novel, the Maura DeLuca story possesses a sprinkle of magic, coupled with ‘monsters’ that—in most cases—retain the majority of their humanity.
After being left in the dark for all of her life, Maura’s father, Maxwell, has finally returned to reveal sinister family secrets Maura could never have dreamed possible—including his revelation that she is one of The Born. But his daughter soon discovers both he and her mother are keeping pieces of her reality hidden, still. As Maura struggles to unravel the mysteries surrounding her new existence and discover every piece of the cryptic puzzle, life appears intent on casting stumbling blocks across her path with every step forward.
Tragedy seems to stalk Maura, and those around her, as she stumbles along, altering the young changeling’s family, just when they have all come back together. The changes left in its wake could be for the better, or may threaten their existence, entirely.
With the arrival of Christmas comes the opportunity for Maura to draw close to everyone she loves—and finally reunite with Ron, her long-distance boyfriend. But permanence has always eluded her, and in her current state of flux this pattern endures, as fate seems intent on snapping the threads that bind her to those she holds most dear. Maxwell’s good intentions pave a road for Maura, littered with misery, while her mother, Caelyn’s, desire to shield her family from pain may tear her away from them, altogether. The perfect happiness in the young vampire’s grasp is so easily swept away and dragged under, out of reach. Can Maura erupt from the darkness and confusion to break the surface and find the life she’s always dreamed of?
In the midst of chaos, assistance materializes in the form of another of her kind—ephemerally beautiful, yet explosively volatile, this new vampire may prove capable of unlocking the puzzle-box Maxwell seems intent on securing from her sight. Maura will discover the darkest parts of herself in her quest to understand the being she is destined to become. Her newfound friend has some shady intentions of his own—such as thwarting the love that has grown between Maura and Ron. Following in the wake of the impulsive vampire’s misguided instruction may further pull a naive Maura down into the depths of ultimate despair, heartbreak…and even destruction.
Undertow: Death’s Twilight is the second book in the Maura DeLuca trilogy and the sequel to Rising Tide: Dark Innocence. In this dark, urban fantasy, readers will discover a world full of uncommon vampires, troubled romance and a splash of blood—and uniquely devoid of werewolves. The rollercoaster that is Maura’s life continues in this YA, paranormal novel that fans of the Twilight series, Vampire Diaries, and Vampire Academy will love. Reminiscent of the classic Fairy Tale, the characters introduced in this series are at the other end of the spectrum from the vampire found in the age of Bram Stoker and his famous Dracula. Although there are ties to the myths created by Stoker and his timeless novel, the Maura DeLuca story possesses a sprinkle of magic, coupled with ‘monsters’ that—in most cases—retain the majority of their humanity.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2014
37 people are currently reading
1118 people want to read
About the author
Claudette Melanson
18 books1,385 followersClaudette Melanson writes dark fantasy in Kitchener, Ontario with seven bun babies: Tegan, Pepper, Butters, Beckett, Sansa, Daenerys, & Caramel. She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a BA in English, BS in English Education and an MA in Literature. Harboring a deep admiration of vampires since the age of five left her with the desire to eventually become one, and now fuels the creation of her favorite paranormal characters. She hopes to one day work full time as an author, since there are many, many stories playing out inside her head.
In her very scant spare time, she enjoys watching Japanese Anime and reading vampire stories...along with other genres of great fiction, as well as riding every roller coaster she encounters in both her hometown and away at signings. An advocate for good health and ketogenic eating, her favorite foods are bulletproof coffee, cashew-flour crust pizza and treats made with xylitol and almond, coconut or cashew flours.
Future dreams include a cabin boasting a roaring fire, isolated inside a snow-filled wood in the Yukon—the perfect writing spot—and the completion of dozens of future novels and stories. A Rabbit Rescue fanatic and loving bunmom, she also hopes to help rescues all over the world save many innocent lives.
In her spare time--what's that???--she loves to watch anime, game the XBox 360--especially Silent Hill Games, read great works of fiction & play with the bunnies. Coffee Lover, occasional blogger, Keto eater & movie watcher. Her first novel, Rising Tide, was the winner of the Gold Medal for YA Mystery in the 2015 Readers' Favorite Competition. Her second, Undertow, took Honorable Mention, for YA Horror the same year for Readers' Favorite. Rising Tide was also the medalist winner for New Apple's Summer Ebook competition.
In her very scant spare time, she enjoys watching Japanese Anime and reading vampire stories...along with other genres of great fiction, as well as riding every roller coaster she encounters in both her hometown and away at signings. An advocate for good health and ketogenic eating, her favorite foods are bulletproof coffee, cashew-flour crust pizza and treats made with xylitol and almond, coconut or cashew flours.
Future dreams include a cabin boasting a roaring fire, isolated inside a snow-filled wood in the Yukon—the perfect writing spot—and the completion of dozens of future novels and stories. A Rabbit Rescue fanatic and loving bunmom, she also hopes to help rescues all over the world save many innocent lives.
In her spare time--what's that???--she loves to watch anime, game the XBox 360--especially Silent Hill Games, read great works of fiction & play with the bunnies. Coffee Lover, occasional blogger, Keto eater & movie watcher. Her first novel, Rising Tide, was the winner of the Gold Medal for YA Mystery in the 2015 Readers' Favorite Competition. Her second, Undertow, took Honorable Mention, for YA Horror the same year for Readers' Favorite. Rising Tide was also the medalist winner for New Apple's Summer Ebook competition.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 30, 2016
It has always been Maura and her mother, but after seventeen years, her father has returned and Maura will slowly be fed the realities of her existence and her future. Maura is special, she is one of The Born, thanks to Maxwell, who is to reality what Vlad the Impaler is to fiction and myths. While their family reunion should be one of discovery and joy, another revelation from her mother will break Maura’s heart and leave her alone, just when she needed her father the most. The rollercoaster ride continues for Maura as her life becomes one filled with blood and an unknown future that looms large on the dark horizon.
Maura is changing, she becoming like her father and there is no one to help her, no one to guide her and clearly the myths and commercial knowledge of vampires is useless. Even the first Christmas she has ever experienced as a family is marred when her young love, Ron comes to visit and she finds herself facing the fact that she may never be able to see him again.
Only the chance meeting of a 200 year-old vampire with a cocky attitude and the face of angel gives Maura the information her father didn’t have time to impart, but that very information could mean the death of her dearest friend. Two teens, blind to the seriousness of their actions, caught up in the glamor of vampires and fangs will make one bad decision that could haunt them forever.
Claudette Melanson, talented author of many genres, a true vampire aficionado brings book two of the Maura DeLuca Trilogy, Undertow: Death’s Twilight to life in all of its dark and angst-filled glory. Feel the loss and confusion of one teen, left alone through no fault of her own, her eagerness to please her best friend and her mental immaturity that causes her to make bad choices. Maura feels like a normal teen, adventuresome, unstoppable and unaware of the choices she makes. From the start, I felt for her, her family and just knew something earth-shattering was going to have. Trust me, it does and Ms. Melanson fills each page with some raw realities that raise the tension and suspense to a nerve wrenching pitch!
I absolutely loved Ms. Melanson’s words, put together with breathtaking brilliance and a love for her craft. THIS is great reading for all ages!
I received this copy from Claudette Melanson in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Maura DeLuca Trilogy - Book 2
Publication Date: November 13, 2014
Publisher: Claudette Melanson
ISBN-13: 9781503256309
Genre: Paranormal Suspense
Print Length: 360 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Maura is changing, she becoming like her father and there is no one to help her, no one to guide her and clearly the myths and commercial knowledge of vampires is useless. Even the first Christmas she has ever experienced as a family is marred when her young love, Ron comes to visit and she finds herself facing the fact that she may never be able to see him again.
Only the chance meeting of a 200 year-old vampire with a cocky attitude and the face of angel gives Maura the information her father didn’t have time to impart, but that very information could mean the death of her dearest friend. Two teens, blind to the seriousness of their actions, caught up in the glamor of vampires and fangs will make one bad decision that could haunt them forever.
Claudette Melanson, talented author of many genres, a true vampire aficionado brings book two of the Maura DeLuca Trilogy, Undertow: Death’s Twilight to life in all of its dark and angst-filled glory. Feel the loss and confusion of one teen, left alone through no fault of her own, her eagerness to please her best friend and her mental immaturity that causes her to make bad choices. Maura feels like a normal teen, adventuresome, unstoppable and unaware of the choices she makes. From the start, I felt for her, her family and just knew something earth-shattering was going to have. Trust me, it does and Ms. Melanson fills each page with some raw realities that raise the tension and suspense to a nerve wrenching pitch!
I absolutely loved Ms. Melanson’s words, put together with breathtaking brilliance and a love for her craft. THIS is great reading for all ages!
I received this copy from Claudette Melanson in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Maura DeLuca Trilogy - Book 2
Publication Date: November 13, 2014
Publisher: Claudette Melanson
ISBN-13: 9781503256309
Genre: Paranormal Suspense
Print Length: 360 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 1, 2016
Honestly, if you love YA and dark vampire tales, you'll love this book!
Ms. Melanson's main character, Maura, is adventurous, resourceful, and far too determined for her own vampire-changeling good.
Suddenly left to her own devices, her good heart coupled with her belief that she knows what's best for everyone around her continues to get Maura into serious trouble. I won't give the story away by going into the twists and turns of the book, but suffice it to say, the exciting and unique adventure that stated in book one gets even more exiting...and DEADLY in book two!
Ms. Melanson's main character, Maura, is adventurous, resourceful, and far too determined for her own vampire-changeling good.
Suddenly left to her own devices, her good heart coupled with her belief that she knows what's best for everyone around her continues to get Maura into serious trouble. I won't give the story away by going into the twists and turns of the book, but suffice it to say, the exciting and unique adventure that stated in book one gets even more exiting...and DEADLY in book two!
September 12, 2021
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: Undertow: Death's Twilight
Subtitle: (The Maura DeLuca Trilogy #2)
Author: Claudette Melanson
Genre: Paranormal
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 2
Best read after earlier books in series? Can be read as stand-alone
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
In this second book of the series, we find out how Maura deals with the new truths she has learned at the end of the first book. She now has met her father, someone she has had to be without for her entire life until then. But will it be the happily ever after now he’s back? Think again. Maura’s mum is severely ill and collapses. So, what will happen next and will Maura be able to cope on her own?
What I liked about the book:
This alternative vampire story kept me entertained throughout.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
The closeness between Maura, her family and her friends.
My least favourite bits in the book:
I loved the entire book.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the second book in the series and I couldn’t wait to read the next in the series.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This book is a completely alternative look on the vampire world.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like paranormal stories, this book may be the book for you.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Maura finally found the truth she was always seeking…or has she?
After being left in the dark for all of her life, Maura’s father, Maxwell, has finally returned to reveal sinister family secrets Maura could never have dreamed possible—including his revelation that she is one of The Born. But his daughter soon discovers both he and her mother are keeping pieces of her reality hidden, still. As Maura struggles to unravel the mysteries surrounding her new existence and discover every piece of the cryptic puzzle, life appears intent on casting stumbling blocks across her path with every step forward.
Tragedy seems to stalk Maura, and those around her, as she stumbles along, altering the young changeling’s family, just when they have all come back together. The changes left in its wake could be for the better, or may threaten their existence, entirely.
With the arrival of Christmas comes the opportunity for Maura to draw close to everyone she loves—and finally reunite with Ron, her long-distance boyfriend. But permanence has always eluded her, and in her current state of flux this pattern endures, as fate seems intent on snapping the threads that bind her to those she holds most dear. Maxwell’s good intentions pave a road for Maura, littered with misery, while her mother, Caelyn’s, desire to shield her family from pain may tear her away from them, altogether. The perfect happiness in the young vampire’s grasp is so easily swept away and dragged under, out of reach. Can Maura erupt from the darkness and confusion to break the surface and find the life she’s always dreamed of?
In the midst of chaos, assistance materializes in the form of another of her kind—ephemerally beautiful, yet explosively volatile, this new vampire may prove capable of unlocking the puzzle-box Maxwell seems intent on securing from her sight. Maura will discover the darkest parts of herself in her quest to understand the being she is destined to become. Her newfound friend has some shady intentions of his own—such as thwarting the love that has grown between Maura and Ron. Following in the wake of the impulsive vampire’s misguided instruction may further pull a naive Maura down into the depths of ultimate despair, heartbreak…and even destruction.
Undertow: Death’s Twilight is the second book in the Maura DeLuca trilogy and the sequel to Rising Tide: Dark Innocence. In this dark, urban fantasy, readers will discover a world full of uncommon vampires, troubled romance and a splash of blood—and uniquely devoid of werewolves. The rollercoaster that is Maura’s life continues in this YA, paranormal novel that fans of the Twilight series, Vampire Diaries, and Vampire Academy will love. Reminiscent of the classic Fairy Tale, the characters introduced in this series are at the other end of the spectrum from the vampire found in the age of Bram Stoker and his famous Dracula. Although there are ties to the myths created by Stoker and his timeless novel, the Maura DeLuca story possesses a sprinkle of magic, coupled with ‘monsters’ that—in most cases—retain the majority of their humanity.
About the Author:
From childhood, as a fan of Nancy Drew, Dana Girls, Perry Mason, and the Hardy Boys, it was inevitable that Christa Nardi would continue her love of books and particularly mysteries. With a career in technical/nonfiction writing (under real name), it is not surprising that her love of mystery transformed into not only reading but writing mysteries. Christa combines her love for reading and writing on her blog.
Basic Details:
Book Title: Undertow: Death's Twilight
Subtitle: (The Maura DeLuca Trilogy #2)
Author: Claudette Melanson
Genre: Paranormal
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 2
Best read after earlier books in series? Can be read as stand-alone
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
In this second book of the series, we find out how Maura deals with the new truths she has learned at the end of the first book. She now has met her father, someone she has had to be without for her entire life until then. But will it be the happily ever after now he’s back? Think again. Maura’s mum is severely ill and collapses. So, what will happen next and will Maura be able to cope on her own?
What I liked about the book:
This alternative vampire story kept me entertained throughout.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
The closeness between Maura, her family and her friends.
My least favourite bits in the book:
I loved the entire book.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the second book in the series and I couldn’t wait to read the next in the series.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This book is a completely alternative look on the vampire world.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like paranormal stories, this book may be the book for you.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Maura finally found the truth she was always seeking…or has she?
After being left in the dark for all of her life, Maura’s father, Maxwell, has finally returned to reveal sinister family secrets Maura could never have dreamed possible—including his revelation that she is one of The Born. But his daughter soon discovers both he and her mother are keeping pieces of her reality hidden, still. As Maura struggles to unravel the mysteries surrounding her new existence and discover every piece of the cryptic puzzle, life appears intent on casting stumbling blocks across her path with every step forward.
Tragedy seems to stalk Maura, and those around her, as she stumbles along, altering the young changeling’s family, just when they have all come back together. The changes left in its wake could be for the better, or may threaten their existence, entirely.
With the arrival of Christmas comes the opportunity for Maura to draw close to everyone she loves—and finally reunite with Ron, her long-distance boyfriend. But permanence has always eluded her, and in her current state of flux this pattern endures, as fate seems intent on snapping the threads that bind her to those she holds most dear. Maxwell’s good intentions pave a road for Maura, littered with misery, while her mother, Caelyn’s, desire to shield her family from pain may tear her away from them, altogether. The perfect happiness in the young vampire’s grasp is so easily swept away and dragged under, out of reach. Can Maura erupt from the darkness and confusion to break the surface and find the life she’s always dreamed of?
In the midst of chaos, assistance materializes in the form of another of her kind—ephemerally beautiful, yet explosively volatile, this new vampire may prove capable of unlocking the puzzle-box Maxwell seems intent on securing from her sight. Maura will discover the darkest parts of herself in her quest to understand the being she is destined to become. Her newfound friend has some shady intentions of his own—such as thwarting the love that has grown between Maura and Ron. Following in the wake of the impulsive vampire’s misguided instruction may further pull a naive Maura down into the depths of ultimate despair, heartbreak…and even destruction.
Undertow: Death’s Twilight is the second book in the Maura DeLuca trilogy and the sequel to Rising Tide: Dark Innocence. In this dark, urban fantasy, readers will discover a world full of uncommon vampires, troubled romance and a splash of blood—and uniquely devoid of werewolves. The rollercoaster that is Maura’s life continues in this YA, paranormal novel that fans of the Twilight series, Vampire Diaries, and Vampire Academy will love. Reminiscent of the classic Fairy Tale, the characters introduced in this series are at the other end of the spectrum from the vampire found in the age of Bram Stoker and his famous Dracula. Although there are ties to the myths created by Stoker and his timeless novel, the Maura DeLuca story possesses a sprinkle of magic, coupled with ‘monsters’ that—in most cases—retain the majority of their humanity.
About the Author:
From childhood, as a fan of Nancy Drew, Dana Girls, Perry Mason, and the Hardy Boys, it was inevitable that Christa Nardi would continue her love of books and particularly mysteries. With a career in technical/nonfiction writing (under real name), it is not surprising that her love of mystery transformed into not only reading but writing mysteries. Christa combines her love for reading and writing on her blog.
June 30, 2017
I will admit wholeheartedly that I am hopelessly addicted to this series! This series offers so much: the heartwarming family moments, the comedic back and forth banter between characters, life lessons tragically instilled. All of this and much more swept me up into a sea of emotions and left me yearning for the next line, page, chapter, and book.
December 27, 2015
In "Undertow: Death’s Twilight" the second intriguing book in the "Maura DeLuca trilogy" Claudette Melanson sets the stage with the return of Maura's father Maxwell Aidea and a dark legacy that has her slowly changing into a vampire. Threads of the plot follow her mother Caelyn's struggle with lupus; her friend Susie's tragic loss; her boyfriend Ron's disappearance; and a doomed transformation.
In this dark urban fantasy Maxwell fills the reader in on the evolution of the vampire race; Maura's history as one of "the Born", a child born of the love between a human and vampire; and the rules of his coven who want to keep the truth of their existence a secret. Yet the more secrets Maxwell and her mother reveal the more they keep hidden, frustrating Maura's life as she clings to a sense of normalcy amid all the unreality. The backdrop for this story breaks from the norm in dark paranormal fantasies as elves, faeries and pixies exist with a link to an angelic bloodline while werewolves don't.
The innovative and imaginative plot is filled with twists that have Maura's romance with Ron complicated by her father's interference and the introduction of a new vampire intent on usurping their love and weakening the blood bond they sealed with a kiss. Emotionally-charged Maura grapples with bodily changes, a missing boyfriend and the desertion of her parents to save her mother's life. The plot progresses slowly at first, heating up after she meets Valdimar Demirci and embarks on a course of action that prompts a bumbled transformation and an unexpected death.
As Maura Deluca's body changes enhancing her beauty and heightening her cravings for blood she clings to the love and devotion of her parents, Ron and Susie only to have fate intervene and turn her life upside down. She's selfish at times but tenacious, naive, and impulsive even though she struggles to do what's right. Her boyfriend Ron continues to be agreeable, patient and accepting, but is slowly awakening to Maura's dark power. Valdimar Demirci is charismatic, crass and egotistical; a vampire who will do anything to gain Maura's affection, but who ends up bringing her nothing but heartache. The personalities of all the characters fuel the passion, energy and drama in a story you can't put down until the explosive climax that leaves more questions than answers.
Sparking with romance and magic, and with a touch of humanity in its monsters "Undertow: Death’s Twilight" continues a trilogy that fires the imagination and leaves you begging for a third book to see if Maura can overcome the despair, heartache and destruction that's dogged her footsteps and regain the love and family she thought lost.
In this dark urban fantasy Maxwell fills the reader in on the evolution of the vampire race; Maura's history as one of "the Born", a child born of the love between a human and vampire; and the rules of his coven who want to keep the truth of their existence a secret. Yet the more secrets Maxwell and her mother reveal the more they keep hidden, frustrating Maura's life as she clings to a sense of normalcy amid all the unreality. The backdrop for this story breaks from the norm in dark paranormal fantasies as elves, faeries and pixies exist with a link to an angelic bloodline while werewolves don't.
The innovative and imaginative plot is filled with twists that have Maura's romance with Ron complicated by her father's interference and the introduction of a new vampire intent on usurping their love and weakening the blood bond they sealed with a kiss. Emotionally-charged Maura grapples with bodily changes, a missing boyfriend and the desertion of her parents to save her mother's life. The plot progresses slowly at first, heating up after she meets Valdimar Demirci and embarks on a course of action that prompts a bumbled transformation and an unexpected death.
As Maura Deluca's body changes enhancing her beauty and heightening her cravings for blood she clings to the love and devotion of her parents, Ron and Susie only to have fate intervene and turn her life upside down. She's selfish at times but tenacious, naive, and impulsive even though she struggles to do what's right. Her boyfriend Ron continues to be agreeable, patient and accepting, but is slowly awakening to Maura's dark power. Valdimar Demirci is charismatic, crass and egotistical; a vampire who will do anything to gain Maura's affection, but who ends up bringing her nothing but heartache. The personalities of all the characters fuel the passion, energy and drama in a story you can't put down until the explosive climax that leaves more questions than answers.
Sparking with romance and magic, and with a touch of humanity in its monsters "Undertow: Death’s Twilight" continues a trilogy that fires the imagination and leaves you begging for a third book to see if Maura can overcome the despair, heartache and destruction that's dogged her footsteps and regain the love and family she thought lost.
February 28, 2016
This was a great sequel to the first book in the Maura DeLuca trilogy. Maura is still continuously learning about herself and her newfound vampire abilities. She finally meets her father in this book and I really thought I would not like him. But I liked Maura's father. He was polite, reasonable, and patient. There were some great twists to the book that I enjoyed and didn't expect to happen which is usually a good thing because that's what I want a book to do to me. We didn't get to see much of Ron in this book and that made me sad for Maura. We are introduced to a new character Val and I like him, but I also hate him. As a character for the story I like him. I feel that it gives it a love triangle, but one that's enjoyable because it's not really that. Maura is always clear with Val that she only sees him as a friend and brother and she sticks by that. I love how Maura is so set in her ways and her stubbornness. We need more characters like her. We get to know Susie as a more set character after a terrible tragedy and I love Susie. Susie is a great friend to Maura and Susie is just as stubborn and is always sticking by Maura's side. They portray a sister relationship really well so I feel that was a great use in the story as well between these two beautiful characters. Everyone in the story is likeable for who they are to me. Melanson wrote their roles that they play very well and sticks with it. I just really hope we get to see Ron again because I know how much he meant to Maura and my heart broke for her. It's been so long since she's seen him and I was hoping we would see him at least at the end. Val is just too annoying for Maura. They would always fight and bicker if a relationship happened between them. Ron has been there for Maura before her turning even began and he was still there after all the weird and crazy stuff happened. He doesn't know what's going on just yet, but he said from the beginning he just knows Maura is the one for him. And Maura feels it as well. And it sucks that he can't see Maura because it's out of his control now and it's not fair. This book should have been our Twilight. It's that great of a book. The cover is also so gorgeous and it captured my attention immediately. I could not wait to read this book when I received it. I can not wait for the final book to this epic story!
May 6, 2015
This is a wonderful sequel to the first book Rising Tide: Dark Innocence. After reading the first book in the series I could not wait to read the second book. This book delivers as much as the first did. In fact I must admit that this book is even better than the first. The author doesn't hesitate to take the story to greater depths and she flawlessly weaves a story that will keep the reader enthralled.
I read this book at a stretch without putting it down. We are introduced to some major characters in this story. Maura's father finally makes an appearance and for a little time it feels as if the family is back together. However, it is not the typical all is well that ends well kind of story. At this point, Maura comes to the realization that her parents are still keeping a lot of secrets from her even though they did reveal some things as though trying to appease her and keep her curiosity at bay. They may have good intentions in trying to protect her, but we all know that curiosity killed the cat. There are many twists that arise especially in the form of a new friend/vampire who claims that his only interest is in helping Maura.
The story is well written and gripping until the very end. The story ends in such a way that the reader will be left wanting more! As I mentioned in my review of the first book, this is a must read for all fans of vampire stories, Young Adult fiction, some romance and some mystery.
I read this book at a stretch without putting it down. We are introduced to some major characters in this story. Maura's father finally makes an appearance and for a little time it feels as if the family is back together. However, it is not the typical all is well that ends well kind of story. At this point, Maura comes to the realization that her parents are still keeping a lot of secrets from her even though they did reveal some things as though trying to appease her and keep her curiosity at bay. They may have good intentions in trying to protect her, but we all know that curiosity killed the cat. There are many twists that arise especially in the form of a new friend/vampire who claims that his only interest is in helping Maura.
The story is well written and gripping until the very end. The story ends in such a way that the reader will be left wanting more! As I mentioned in my review of the first book, this is a must read for all fans of vampire stories, Young Adult fiction, some romance and some mystery.
January 15, 2015
Picking up where Rising Tide ended this book continues the story of Maura the changeling. It is superbly written, taking the reader along as the characters continue their journey in a world that turns upside down and inside out around them. Maura finally learns just what loss truly means and learns the hard way that selfish obsession leads to disaster and true loneliness.
We continue the story with the characters from the first book who become even more alive to the reader as we get to know them better and we meet new friends who aren't all that they seem. We're taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions alongside them all as they process all the normal teenage angst as well as the growing needs of a fledgling vampire and her wannabe friend.
A word of warning - make sure you have undisturbed reading time as you won't willingly put this one down until you turn the very last page
We continue the story with the characters from the first book who become even more alive to the reader as we get to know them better and we meet new friends who aren't all that they seem. We're taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions alongside them all as they process all the normal teenage angst as well as the growing needs of a fledgling vampire and her wannabe friend.
A word of warning - make sure you have undisturbed reading time as you won't willingly put this one down until you turn the very last page
May 27, 2021
A Lot Of Interesting Things Going On
Undertow: Death’s Twilight is an action-packed paranormal romance. Throughout the book, there are exciting events and plot twists that increase the tension and glue the reader to the pages.
The Opening
Anyone who has read the first book won’t be surprised by the first paragraph, but it provides a great reminder of the important event that just happened. Anyone who decides to read this book as a stand alone will easily work out what’s going on as the opening chapter succinctly summarizes the events of the first book in a way that is shown and not told and does not feel like an info-dump.
The Characters
Maura is instantly likable because her parents have kept her in the dark for many years leaving her feeling betrayed. I hate the way she was left alone with Susie without the help and advice she needed. If nothing else, the events of book one demonstrated that Susie’s life was endangered by this bad decision to leave Maura and her alone without the knowledge or supervision that would ensure their mutual safety during this time of transition.
Nice plot development with Ron. He is a truly sympathetic character, and he gets even more likable in this book. I love the foreshadowing from Max about Ron’s extended family.
Val irritated me. He’s been around for two hundred years, so he knows there are facts he cannot change and things he cannot have. He will have experienced this thing over and over within his society, yet somehow thinks he can overcome something mystical with simple persistence. Causing someone physical pain by your actions is not likely to endear you to them.
I did like the subtle hints about Val and someone other than Maura peppered through the story. I can’t go into details about what I mean without introducing spoilers, but it appears that there’s some very, very long-distance foreshadowing in this book with respect to Val’s future life.
I didn’t really like Maxwell very much. He is the king of bad decisions. He frequently decides things in a vacuum (in secret and without discussion with others) that invariably turn out to be horrendously bad choices. For a six-hundred-year-old guy, he hasn’t learned much.
Most of the major conflicts that occur throughout this book derive from one of Max’s bad decisions. A family member feels angry and lashes out because she wasn’t consulted by Max. Max failed to arrange adequate supervision, so someone suffers when everything goes horribly wrong. It felt as though if Max wasn’t in their life, everything would be much better.
I was a little disappointed by Susie. Not the lack of control during certain event, but at her apportionment of blame. She was the main cheerleader for the life-changing decisions, so how can she blame others in any way, especially those who were as ignorant as her about certain facts?
The Plot
There are lots of interesting things going on in this book. The three main conflicts relate to Susie’s long-term position within the family, Ron’s whereabouts after the midpoint, and the anger felt by a family member who was left out of the loop. You won’t be too surprised to hear that Max is to blame for two out of three of these conflicts and is part of the problem for the third.
None of these conflicts are resolved within the book, but that’s fine. One conflict is kinda resolved, but the resolution actually becomes a bigger problem that the initial conflict. A second conflict comes to a head in the final chapter of this book, creating a fabulous cliffhanger ending. The third conflict is left hanging.
I can’t tell you which is which or give more details without some major spoilers. However, I can tell you that I really enjoyed the ongoing tension and plot development within this book. Further, I thought the ending was great. Despite the fact that most of the conflict isn’t resolved, the story is brought to the point where I felt that progressing immediately on to the next book was mandatory. It was a book ending that really left me wanting…in a good way.
At the end of chapter 18, there was a situation that could have easily been resolved, in my opinion. Instead, it became a major plot turn. There should have been better reasons why the simple approach wasn’t taken.
The Setting
The setting was well developed. I always understood where we were and what was happening. The stuff about vampires being captivated, almost hypnotized, by fish tanks and the ocean was great.
The Prose
I like the way this story is shown and not told. The pacing of this second book in the series was much better than the first. I found the narrative very immersive.
However, unlike the first book, there are some editing problems with this novel. There are many typos.
For example, in chapter 6, 28%: Wow, Maxwell had gotten the tree up in just the amount time it had taken me… Chapter 7, 31%: One inside, the calming atmosphere worked at settling me… Chapter 8, first page: …special gingerbread cookies for Caelyn using with almond flour. Chapter 9, 40%: Ron kept repeatedly rubbed his hands brusquely over… Chapter 12, 59%: “Well, the fit him best due to his…” Chapter 14, 68%: The fact his tattoo it had been placed…
My Opinion
This book ended on a wonderful cliffhanger, and I immediately jumped into the next book. That’s how good the ending was! Throughout this book, I was thoroughly engaged and entertained. Undertow: Death’s Twilight rates as 5 out of 5 on any scale.
Notice:
I received an advance review copy for free, but this review is my honest opinion of the book.
Undertow: Death’s Twilight is an action-packed paranormal romance. Throughout the book, there are exciting events and plot twists that increase the tension and glue the reader to the pages.
The Opening
Anyone who has read the first book won’t be surprised by the first paragraph, but it provides a great reminder of the important event that just happened. Anyone who decides to read this book as a stand alone will easily work out what’s going on as the opening chapter succinctly summarizes the events of the first book in a way that is shown and not told and does not feel like an info-dump.
The Characters
Maura is instantly likable because her parents have kept her in the dark for many years leaving her feeling betrayed. I hate the way she was left alone with Susie without the help and advice she needed. If nothing else, the events of book one demonstrated that Susie’s life was endangered by this bad decision to leave Maura and her alone without the knowledge or supervision that would ensure their mutual safety during this time of transition.
Nice plot development with Ron. He is a truly sympathetic character, and he gets even more likable in this book. I love the foreshadowing from Max about Ron’s extended family.
Val irritated me. He’s been around for two hundred years, so he knows there are facts he cannot change and things he cannot have. He will have experienced this thing over and over within his society, yet somehow thinks he can overcome something mystical with simple persistence. Causing someone physical pain by your actions is not likely to endear you to them.
I did like the subtle hints about Val and someone other than Maura peppered through the story. I can’t go into details about what I mean without introducing spoilers, but it appears that there’s some very, very long-distance foreshadowing in this book with respect to Val’s future life.
I didn’t really like Maxwell very much. He is the king of bad decisions. He frequently decides things in a vacuum (in secret and without discussion with others) that invariably turn out to be horrendously bad choices. For a six-hundred-year-old guy, he hasn’t learned much.
Most of the major conflicts that occur throughout this book derive from one of Max’s bad decisions. A family member feels angry and lashes out because she wasn’t consulted by Max. Max failed to arrange adequate supervision, so someone suffers when everything goes horribly wrong. It felt as though if Max wasn’t in their life, everything would be much better.
I was a little disappointed by Susie. Not the lack of control during certain event, but at her apportionment of blame. She was the main cheerleader for the life-changing decisions, so how can she blame others in any way, especially those who were as ignorant as her about certain facts?
The Plot
There are lots of interesting things going on in this book. The three main conflicts relate to Susie’s long-term position within the family, Ron’s whereabouts after the midpoint, and the anger felt by a family member who was left out of the loop. You won’t be too surprised to hear that Max is to blame for two out of three of these conflicts and is part of the problem for the third.
None of these conflicts are resolved within the book, but that’s fine. One conflict is kinda resolved, but the resolution actually becomes a bigger problem that the initial conflict. A second conflict comes to a head in the final chapter of this book, creating a fabulous cliffhanger ending. The third conflict is left hanging.
I can’t tell you which is which or give more details without some major spoilers. However, I can tell you that I really enjoyed the ongoing tension and plot development within this book. Further, I thought the ending was great. Despite the fact that most of the conflict isn’t resolved, the story is brought to the point where I felt that progressing immediately on to the next book was mandatory. It was a book ending that really left me wanting…in a good way.
At the end of chapter 18, there was a situation that could have easily been resolved, in my opinion. Instead, it became a major plot turn. There should have been better reasons why the simple approach wasn’t taken.
The Setting
The setting was well developed. I always understood where we were and what was happening. The stuff about vampires being captivated, almost hypnotized, by fish tanks and the ocean was great.
The Prose
I like the way this story is shown and not told. The pacing of this second book in the series was much better than the first. I found the narrative very immersive.
However, unlike the first book, there are some editing problems with this novel. There are many typos.
For example, in chapter 6, 28%: Wow, Maxwell had gotten the tree up in just the amount time it had taken me… Chapter 7, 31%: One inside, the calming atmosphere worked at settling me… Chapter 8, first page: …special gingerbread cookies for Caelyn using with almond flour. Chapter 9, 40%: Ron kept repeatedly rubbed his hands brusquely over… Chapter 12, 59%: “Well, the fit him best due to his…” Chapter 14, 68%: The fact his tattoo it had been placed…
My Opinion
This book ended on a wonderful cliffhanger, and I immediately jumped into the next book. That’s how good the ending was! Throughout this book, I was thoroughly engaged and entertained. Undertow: Death’s Twilight rates as 5 out of 5 on any scale.
Notice:
I received an advance review copy for free, but this review is my honest opinion of the book.
April 8, 2019
This is the second book in the series and let me tell you it was just as good as the first. This author has a great way of spinning a tale into a great story. I’m not one for giving anything away but let me tell you many questions are answered but so many nee ones arise. I loved that Ron came back into the picture. I have to be honest and say I cried a couple of times throughout the book. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the series.
B2B Sandra
B2B Sandra
December 29, 2017
I listened to the audio book. I loved the second book in this series. It is deliberately paced so the reader learns more about Maura's condition as she learns. It places the reader in a perfect spot to empathize with her and her journey. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. It has been a fantastic story so far.
January 4, 2020
This trilogy is one of those that you want to read from beginning to end without stopping.
The storyline is fantastic and flows seamlessly from one book to the next. The plot is well thought out, with great twists and turns throughout, and I loved the multi-dimensional characters.
I really enjoyed theses books, and am looking forward to reading the first book of the follow-up trilogy, The DeLuca Vampires.
A well-written supernatural series for readers of all ages.
The storyline is fantastic and flows seamlessly from one book to the next. The plot is well thought out, with great twists and turns throughout, and I loved the multi-dimensional characters.
I really enjoyed theses books, and am looking forward to reading the first book of the follow-up trilogy, The DeLuca Vampires.
A well-written supernatural series for readers of all ages.
December 3, 2015
The cover art of this book is so beautiful, once I received my copy I just simply admired the artwork on the cover for a bit. There was a lot of work that went into that beautiful cover!
Personally, I have been a long time waiting for this book. Which let me add, if you haven’t read the first book, you might not be able to follow along as well as the rest of us. The two books flow together as “Forrest Gump” says: like “Peas and Carrots!”
Maura, thanks to her mother Caelyn, grew up with a big family secret. She is a Vampire and didn’t know it until she became a full grown adult and moved abroad, and finally met her Father, which she met only by what seemed to be by accident. However, her Mother planned on informing her and explaining everything and what not, but unfortunately Maura then, had an accident-so to speak.
But again, that is from the other book. Her Father Maxwell as you may notice was not in her life as a Child, and now they are attempting to make it as a family. They want to try to be the family they never were. But once they start working on their family unit, tragedy seems to follow. It’s like something always has to ruin the good things, you know?!
While still trying to work on her family, Maura is also trying still working on her love life with Ron. So she uses Christmas to reunite with him and bring her family in closer.
Caelyn is still trying to deal with the Vampire lifestyle of her daughter. She truly hoped that this might not come to pass, you could just tell, deep down, she didn’t want it to be.
Thankfully, while everything is going up and down, and up and down, all these changes, Susie is here to listen and offer a listening ear.
I found this story so … heart wrenching, I screamed in my twitter at Claudette. I have always been in love with Maura and Ron, no offense I have insider secrets, and Maura and Ron remind me of Claudette and her husband. And they just can’t fall apart. So I’m reading this, and I scream. My dogs look at me. I grab my cell and scream at the writer. No, this is not happening. THAT is all I am saying because I get in trouble for being a spoiler blower.
As for my review, I personally have a problem with Maura calling Maxwell “Dad.” The Dude wasn’t in her life, I mean, maybe it wasn’t all her fault, maybe it was also Caelyn’s but still. He wasn’t there. To call him Dad from the beginning bothered me. But that’s just me.
I also had a problem with her Mother keeping a secret like that from her. Yeah we keeps secrets from our Children like Santa and the tooth fairy, and where the presents are hid. But what about when she became a teen and you gave her the safe sex talk? Why not tell her then?
I dearly loved both of the books, and how close they are. They are wonderful and you need to read them both. The first one was called: “Rising Tide: Dark Innocence” and it can also be found in this blog as well.
This book, just like the last one, is five stars. I truly enjoyed it. It pulled me in, making me feel everything. I cried, I screamed, and I wanted more, and I became involved. I could see and imagine the characters and their feelings. They are a wonderful family, and they deserve to work things out, all families do. And you want what is best for everyone, trust me.
And you will want to read this, all the way through. And you will not be able to put it down. But make sure you read both books! They belong together! They are amazing! And you will be glad that you have read them, and you will be a fan of Claudette just like I am, trust me! I give this book five stars! Now go buy your copy!
Personally, I have been a long time waiting for this book. Which let me add, if you haven’t read the first book, you might not be able to follow along as well as the rest of us. The two books flow together as “Forrest Gump” says: like “Peas and Carrots!”
Maura, thanks to her mother Caelyn, grew up with a big family secret. She is a Vampire and didn’t know it until she became a full grown adult and moved abroad, and finally met her Father, which she met only by what seemed to be by accident. However, her Mother planned on informing her and explaining everything and what not, but unfortunately Maura then, had an accident-so to speak.
But again, that is from the other book. Her Father Maxwell as you may notice was not in her life as a Child, and now they are attempting to make it as a family. They want to try to be the family they never were. But once they start working on their family unit, tragedy seems to follow. It’s like something always has to ruin the good things, you know?!
While still trying to work on her family, Maura is also trying still working on her love life with Ron. So she uses Christmas to reunite with him and bring her family in closer.
Caelyn is still trying to deal with the Vampire lifestyle of her daughter. She truly hoped that this might not come to pass, you could just tell, deep down, she didn’t want it to be.
Thankfully, while everything is going up and down, and up and down, all these changes, Susie is here to listen and offer a listening ear.
I found this story so … heart wrenching, I screamed in my twitter at Claudette. I have always been in love with Maura and Ron, no offense I have insider secrets, and Maura and Ron remind me of Claudette and her husband. And they just can’t fall apart. So I’m reading this, and I scream. My dogs look at me. I grab my cell and scream at the writer. No, this is not happening. THAT is all I am saying because I get in trouble for being a spoiler blower.
As for my review, I personally have a problem with Maura calling Maxwell “Dad.” The Dude wasn’t in her life, I mean, maybe it wasn’t all her fault, maybe it was also Caelyn’s but still. He wasn’t there. To call him Dad from the beginning bothered me. But that’s just me.
I also had a problem with her Mother keeping a secret like that from her. Yeah we keeps secrets from our Children like Santa and the tooth fairy, and where the presents are hid. But what about when she became a teen and you gave her the safe sex talk? Why not tell her then?
I dearly loved both of the books, and how close they are. They are wonderful and you need to read them both. The first one was called: “Rising Tide: Dark Innocence” and it can also be found in this blog as well.
This book, just like the last one, is five stars. I truly enjoyed it. It pulled me in, making me feel everything. I cried, I screamed, and I wanted more, and I became involved. I could see and imagine the characters and their feelings. They are a wonderful family, and they deserve to work things out, all families do. And you want what is best for everyone, trust me.
And you will want to read this, all the way through. And you will not be able to put it down. But make sure you read both books! They belong together! They are amazing! And you will be glad that you have read them, and you will be a fan of Claudette just like I am, trust me! I give this book five stars! Now go buy your copy!
October 20, 2018
A Vampire coming of age tale
A thoroughly good read. Having lived in Vancouver for three years I loved all the references to places I have been. Maura is coming to terms with the factor she's becoming a vampire and the consequences of the choices she and the people in her life make. I can't wait to read the next book in the trilogy.
A thoroughly good read. Having lived in Vancouver for three years I loved all the references to places I have been. Maura is coming to terms with the factor she's becoming a vampire and the consequences of the choices she and the people in her life make. I can't wait to read the next book in the trilogy.
July 29, 2016
Maura has come a long way since Rising Tide: Dark Innocence book 1 in the Maura DeLuca Trilogy where she found love and acceptance, but also experienced some new confounding side effects of her “condition”. In book 2 Undertow: Death's Twilight, Maura is in a new city, finds her father, gains a sister, and learns the truth about who and more to the point what she is, a Born vampire. Maura is guided by her heart wanting her family to all be together forever but forever is a long time especially when the people you love are still keeping secrets. With the arrival of Christmas, Maura feels happy and hopeful. Her family is back together, her best friend and now sister is healing from tragedy, and Ron, her heart’s desire, is visiting…what could go wrong?
Well Maura, it seems, should always be waiting for the other shoe to drop. Her parents are gone, Ron is missing, she has no idea how to be a vampire or deal with what is happening to her, and to top it off her friend/sister proposes a very scary prospect. Maura and Susie decide the best course of action is to find another vampire a to help them, but knowing next to nothing about her kind Maura follows Susie in what she thinks is a futile attempt to locate someone like her. Valdamir was young, good looking, and dangerously sarcastic and he knew Maura was a vampire and to her surprise she instinctively knew he was too.
Valdamir’s knowledge is what she needs to unlock those secrets her father has kept from her and the ticket to putting her and Susie’s plan into action. Valdamir isn’t helping out of the kindness of his own heart either, he is intent on making Ron’s absence permanent and having Maura all to himself. Maura being well aware of his attempts builds a friendship that only serves to make him want her even more. Maura, Susie, and Valdamir delve deep into plans that should have been left to only seasoned vampires. That mistake will have Maura left alone to reflect on the horrific consequences of her actions, stripped of her friends at the command of her own father and sentenced to loneliness, heartbreak, and despair like she has never known.
Claudette Melanson has created a vampire story that sparkles rather than vampires that do and that has made all the difference. A story I would be proud to share with my daughter; this is a great series to read with your teens or just for yourself. I loved the story line and the new fresh take on a popular theme. I enjoyed that Claudette creates characters that are easy to connect to. The main character reminds me of my own teenage daughter. Claudette's storytelling is endearing to me as a mother and lover of this genre because she creates internal conflicts, that while supernatural, parallel how I know teens feel in the adolescent push and pull of their everyday lives, feeling lost, different, and volatile. Claudette cultivates friendships on the page that I can only wish follow my daughter through her own life. Refreshing and fun, I recommend you get to know Maura for yourself in this Indie award winner.
Well Maura, it seems, should always be waiting for the other shoe to drop. Her parents are gone, Ron is missing, she has no idea how to be a vampire or deal with what is happening to her, and to top it off her friend/sister proposes a very scary prospect. Maura and Susie decide the best course of action is to find another vampire a to help them, but knowing next to nothing about her kind Maura follows Susie in what she thinks is a futile attempt to locate someone like her. Valdamir was young, good looking, and dangerously sarcastic and he knew Maura was a vampire and to her surprise she instinctively knew he was too.
Valdamir’s knowledge is what she needs to unlock those secrets her father has kept from her and the ticket to putting her and Susie’s plan into action. Valdamir isn’t helping out of the kindness of his own heart either, he is intent on making Ron’s absence permanent and having Maura all to himself. Maura being well aware of his attempts builds a friendship that only serves to make him want her even more. Maura, Susie, and Valdamir delve deep into plans that should have been left to only seasoned vampires. That mistake will have Maura left alone to reflect on the horrific consequences of her actions, stripped of her friends at the command of her own father and sentenced to loneliness, heartbreak, and despair like she has never known.
Claudette Melanson has created a vampire story that sparkles rather than vampires that do and that has made all the difference. A story I would be proud to share with my daughter; this is a great series to read with your teens or just for yourself. I loved the story line and the new fresh take on a popular theme. I enjoyed that Claudette creates characters that are easy to connect to. The main character reminds me of my own teenage daughter. Claudette's storytelling is endearing to me as a mother and lover of this genre because she creates internal conflicts, that while supernatural, parallel how I know teens feel in the adolescent push and pull of their everyday lives, feeling lost, different, and volatile. Claudette cultivates friendships on the page that I can only wish follow my daughter through her own life. Refreshing and fun, I recommend you get to know Maura for yourself in this Indie award winner.
Read
September 22, 2015Ugh! Cliffhanger leaves me dreading the wait!
I have lots of books I need to read and review so I started doing this thing where I read the very beginning of books to see if they seem interesting...you get the picture. I love this author for her friendliness and how she answers Twitter and Facebook posts from readers which prompted me to put Rising Tide at the top of my list to try. It sounded a bit juvenile so I wasn't expecting much. Imagine how surprised I was when I became totally addicted to this series. It's clean of everything but violence. The first book was fun to read with Maura making me yell at the Kindle about how she could miss the truth staring her right in the face. (Kind of like the car keys you think you misplaced but are actually in your pocket.) The tone of the second book was a complete 180, as it should. Maura is growing up to learn that ignorance is NOT bliss. The book loses the funny, want to roll your eyes naivety and takes a darker, more serious, suspenseful tone. I started experiencing empathy for characters pushed into very heavy problems. I actually cried during a few parts of the story.
I'm a 44 year old woman hooked on a story about teens.
Pick up Rising Tide today and become immersed. The story is worth the money spent. The only thing I regret is the wait for the third book.
Happy reading my fellow bookworms!
I have lots of books I need to read and review so I started doing this thing where I read the very beginning of books to see if they seem interesting...you get the picture. I love this author for her friendliness and how she answers Twitter and Facebook posts from readers which prompted me to put Rising Tide at the top of my list to try. It sounded a bit juvenile so I wasn't expecting much. Imagine how surprised I was when I became totally addicted to this series. It's clean of everything but violence. The first book was fun to read with Maura making me yell at the Kindle about how she could miss the truth staring her right in the face. (Kind of like the car keys you think you misplaced but are actually in your pocket.) The tone of the second book was a complete 180, as it should. Maura is growing up to learn that ignorance is NOT bliss. The book loses the funny, want to roll your eyes naivety and takes a darker, more serious, suspenseful tone. I started experiencing empathy for characters pushed into very heavy problems. I actually cried during a few parts of the story.
I'm a 44 year old woman hooked on a story about teens.
Pick up Rising Tide today and become immersed. The story is worth the money spent. The only thing I regret is the wait for the third book.
Happy reading my fellow bookworms!
August 23, 2016
First I must say I received a free copy of this book and I promised to give an honest review. This is the second book in the Maura DeLuca series and picks up right where book one stops, with the addition of a few new characters Max ( Maura's father being one of them). Maura quickly goes from being an innocent teenage girl to a curious soon to be vampire. Wanting to know everything and not taking time to think about her actions and the consequences that they could have. Again this book is told in the first person putting you in the shoes of Maura and seeing and feeling everything from her point of view. This is an amazing follow up to book one and again would recommend it for anyone who wants a fresh take on vampires. Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
May 23, 2015
I Absolutely love this book, With every book that I can't put down, I am already wishing that the next book is ready! I am amazed that Claudette took this book in a direction I've NEVER seen in vampire books! Her imagination astounds me, I've read a lot of books on vampires and never thought of the things she points out.
Her characters are well rounded and you really care for them. I can't wait to read what happens to them!
I highly recommend this series, and hope that Claudette writes fast! I'll keep my eyes open for the next book!
Now I have to find a book that will keep me reading far into the night as this one did.......
Her characters are well rounded and you really care for them. I can't wait to read what happens to them!
I highly recommend this series, and hope that Claudette writes fast! I'll keep my eyes open for the next book!
Now I have to find a book that will keep me reading far into the night as this one did.......
May 17, 2015
I didn't find this book quite as good as the first, so I'm giving it a 3.5.
There were some issues in here which I found seemed to take a step back, when the feeling was that these issues should have been more connected and continued to stay in place. This was what resulted in anomalies in the tale, and left parts of the novel sagging and somewhat disjointed. Further into the second half of the novel, I felt like it seemed to gather some much needed momentum and the story leaped back into action leaving it at a good place to stop before it continues on to the next novel without leaving a bad cliffhanger.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next book.
There were some issues in here which I found seemed to take a step back, when the feeling was that these issues should have been more connected and continued to stay in place. This was what resulted in anomalies in the tale, and left parts of the novel sagging and somewhat disjointed. Further into the second half of the novel, I felt like it seemed to gather some much needed momentum and the story leaped back into action leaving it at a good place to stop before it continues on to the next novel without leaving a bad cliffhanger.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next book.
November 30, 2014
Undertow: Death's Twilight (Maura DeLuca Trilogy, #2) is great.
It is the further look at the life of teenage changeling Vampire Maura.
I just loved this book. The storyline is tight. Violence is minimal. Maura is a very interesting, likeable and clever main character. Reading about Maura's life is great fun.
The ending of this book was dramatic and stunning.
The last page cliffhanger was frightening.
Claudette, please rethink the trilogy idea. This book is a page turner. I wanted it to last longer. More than just a trilogy would be cool.
It is the further look at the life of teenage changeling Vampire Maura.
I just loved this book. The storyline is tight. Violence is minimal. Maura is a very interesting, likeable and clever main character. Reading about Maura's life is great fun.
The ending of this book was dramatic and stunning.
The last page cliffhanger was frightening.
Claudette, please rethink the trilogy idea. This book is a page turner. I wanted it to last longer. More than just a trilogy would be cool.
July 5, 2016
Holy goodness gracious! These are some great, horror style vampires (so much more fun than the angsty sparkling type).
Ms. Melanson digs into her version of vampire lore, sprinkled out it little bits & pieces throughout the book (no long, boring, passages of exposition). It's a fascinating mix of magic and science.
We get to meet some awesome new characters, as well as visit with some previous loved ones. There is love and revenge (thanks Max!)
The last few chapters are especially amazing, with some scary vampire action!
I can't wait to get my hands on Riptide!
Ms. Melanson digs into her version of vampire lore, sprinkled out it little bits & pieces throughout the book (no long, boring, passages of exposition). It's a fascinating mix of magic and science.
We get to meet some awesome new characters, as well as visit with some previous loved ones. There is love and revenge (thanks Max!)
The last few chapters are especially amazing, with some scary vampire action!
I can't wait to get my hands on Riptide!
December 20, 2014
I really enjoyed this book as much as the first one if not even a little moreJ. While it definitely is a YA book it is not childish and keeps your attention as an adult.
This book starts up pretty much where “Rising Tide” ended and I enjoyed that we don’t have a huge time gap between the story and books.
You can find my full review here:
http://snoopydoosbookreviews.com/unde...
This book starts up pretty much where “Rising Tide” ended and I enjoyed that we don’t have a huge time gap between the story and books.
You can find my full review here:
http://snoopydoosbookreviews.com/unde...
November 18, 2014
If you read Claudette Melanson's work before then you will love this book! She has done an excellent job! I really love the action the emotional character that is Maury DeLuca. She is still in her transformational stage before becoming a full vampire. She has had a lot to overcome in her short life so far. Maura has not made the best decisions and some of the results were tragic. A must read! No spoilers from me! Can't wait for the next book Claudette Melanson!
July 11, 2015
Loved, loved, loved this book. Ok I have loved the series so far. It is amazing. I adore the main character Maura. My heart swells and breaks with hers. I enjoyed the addition of the character Val. He is a perfect balance of naughty and nice. He actually had me laughing out loud. The author is a master storyteller. If you enjoy paranormal books then this series you just have to pick up. You will not be disappointed.
February 18, 2015
Fantastic
In this sequel to Riptide we meet Valdamir, who quickly starts falling for Maura. Soon Val, Maura and Susie come up with a plan to be best friends forever, but will their wishes come true? I love the relationship between the 3 friends and how Maura learns lessons that she never understood before, when she thought her father didn't know what was best for her.
In this sequel to Riptide we meet Valdamir, who quickly starts falling for Maura. Soon Val, Maura and Susie come up with a plan to be best friends forever, but will their wishes come true? I love the relationship between the 3 friends and how Maura learns lessons that she never understood before, when she thought her father didn't know what was best for her.
November 7, 2020
A Vampire coming of age tale
A thoroughly good read. Having lived in Vancouver for three years I loved all the references to places I have been. Maura is coming to terms with the factor she's becoming a vampire and the consequences of the choices she and the people in her life make. I can't wait to read the next book in the trilogy.
A thoroughly good read. Having lived in Vancouver for three years I loved all the references to places I have been. Maura is coming to terms with the factor she's becoming a vampire and the consequences of the choices she and the people in her life make. I can't wait to read the next book in the trilogy.
November 17, 2014
Like the first book, the ending was a cliff hanger. I really enjoyed this Maura character because she was real, part heroin and part screw-up. Like my own kid and her friends make bad decisions for well-meaning reasons. I am rooting for her to get-it-together and looking forward to the next book.
December 28, 2014
Excellent sequel. I liked learning more about this world of vampires. Maura is a great character & I really liked Val. Anyway, it's still so new, so I don't want to write any spoilers. Definitely a good book & I can't wait for the next one.
February 25, 2017
One aspect about this book is that it is easy to follow, even if the first book hasn’t been read.
Read full review in the 2015 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
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November 25, 2014 I literally cannot wait to read this book!!!!!!
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