Speed Date with Calla: Bloodrose by Andrea Cremer

Hi! This feature is hosted by Mary over at The Book Swarm. Speed Dating is basically giving a shorter review of the book and it's ton of fun! Go check it out!

Title: Bloodrose
Author: Andrea Cremer
Publisher: Philomel
Publication Date: January 3, 2012
Source: Bought
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Summary: Calla has always welcomed war.

But now that the final battle is upon her, there's more at stake than fighting. There's saving Ren, even if it incurs Shay's wrath. There's keeping Ansel safe, even if he's been branded a traitor. There's proving herself as the pack's alpha, facing unnamable horrors, and ridding the world of the Keepers' magic once and for all. And then there's deciding what to do when the war ends. If Calla makes it out alive, that is. 

Review: Bloodrose, the final book in the Nightshade trilogy, manages to be both exciting and romantic. I'm going to be sad to see this series go but it certainly went out in style.

The only thing that I don't like about this series is Calla. This might be a big deal to some readers but I ignore it and wait for her to stop whining about her problems. At least the pack and the Searchers provide comic relief. They were by far the most amazing side characters I've seen in awhile.

But what I loved was the adventure. Calla and the gang go many places in this book in their quest to rid the world of evil. The fight scenes are swift, magnificent, and the emotions run even higher during the course of this book.

I believe I'm in the minority but I actually liked the end of Bloodrose. It fit perfectly and I can't imagine it any other way.  

Rating: 4.5 stars

Wolfsbane by Andrea Cremer

Title: Wolfsbane
Author: Andrea Cremer
Publisher: Philomel
Publication Date: July 26, 2011
Source: Bought

Summary: When Calla Tor wakes up in the lair of the Searchers, her sworn enemies, she’s certain her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer—one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack—and the man—she left behind. Is Ren worth the price of her freedom? And will Shay stand by her side no matter what? Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must decide which battles are worth fighting and how many trials true love can endure and still survive.

Review: Wolfsbane has gotten a few mixed reviews, and that made me a little hesitant to read it. I wanted to love it because Nightshade was just so awesome. My feelings on this are not mixed at all and I'm firmly on one side of the love/hate barrier. That is the LOVE side!!

While I was astonished by Nightshade I was absolutely blown away by Wolfsbane. I enjoyed every second of action, of history, and of the steamier than steamy romance.

In fact, the history was one of my favorite parts of the book. It certainly wasn't boring and I soaked it all up. I'm not saying some of the terms and words weren't a little hard to get used to, but they were definitely interesting.

There was also a ton of action...and WOW did it set me on the edge of my seat. I had this need for everyone to be okay and live. I care so deeply about these character. So deeply that I feel like I'm right there beside them.

I felt like Calla was going through so much inner, and possibly outer, turmoil during Wolfsbane. She made me want to give her a hug. Though, I doubt she would except that. She'd probably tell me to go away. The other thing I love about Calla is that she is so strong and just admirable.

The romance....I no longer have a Team. I do like Ren but now I feel like she should be with Shay for reasons that might spoil the book. Only because of....the old lady in me is coming out. Still, Shay is growing on me!

Wolfsbane is a highly awesome and addictive installment the series. It also made me realize that the series is one of my favorites, werewolves and otherwise! I can't wait for Bloodrose!

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