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Showing posts with label Shape Shifter. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shape Shifter. Show all posts

The Talisman Review

Stephen King, Peter Straub, American, Classic, Dark, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Occult, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Werewolf

The Talisman

Published: 8, November 1984
Genre: American, Classic, Dark, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Occult, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Werewolf
Book 1 of 3: Talisman (The third book has not yet been published.)

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

The Talisman is a fantasy collaboration novel written by Stephen King and Peter Straub in 1984. Although there is one indirect allusion to a Sir Walter Scott novel, the narrative is unrelated to Walter Scott's 1825 novel of the same name. In 1985, The Talisman was nominated for both the Locus and World Fantasy Awards. Black House 2001, a sequel written by King and Straub, takes up with a now-adult Jack as a retired Los Angeles homicide investigator attempting to investigate a string of murders in the little village of French Landing, Wisconsin.

This narrative belongs to and is tied to the Dark Tower series, making that vast universe much larger than it already was. In the book's sequel, Black House, the Territories are shown to be a counterpart to All-World. 

The pavilion where Jack Sawyer meets Sophie in The Little Sisters of Eluria is the identical pavilion mentioned in King's introduction to The Little Sisters of Eluria.

There was a lot of buzz about this book because Straub and King were both hugely famous and well-known horror and suspense authors in their own right. 

Multiple pieces were published praising the two authors' collaboration and speculating on what would be the best horror novel ever written, thanks to a $550,000 advertising budget provided by the publisher. 

It was a smash hit in its own right, but for me, it was a fantastic quest with a great cause and an incredible adventure that I want to read again and again and watch as a movie if they can produce an exact word-for-word adaptation, and I'm happy to report that a series may be in the works. 

It was stated in 2021 that Amblin will adapt the novel into a Netflix television series, with the Duffer Brothers assisting with development. And I will certainly include any fresh material in this area if I come across it.

I must warn you that this book and story will make you think in two ways: one, you will throw it away, and the other, you will embrace it passionately. 

The issue is simple: if you're an adult with a frozen brain and little imagination, you can find it boring and ridiculous since you'll believe it's a genuine stretch of the imagination to even consider it a storyline. 

But for everyone else, just try to enjoy it the way it was meant to be experienced. Of course, the narrative will contain darker undertones than other popular literature. 

It begins slowly but gradually accelerates into a fast-paced, attention-grabbing narrative. The characters rapidly won me over, and I got emotionally immersed in the story. 

This is one of my 'favorite' novels because I can re-read it and still be immersed in Jack's world. And Wolf is without a doubt my favorite character.

Following this cooperation with Stephen King, I fell in love with Peter Straub's works. Stephen King, as you may know, is the maestro of fiction and horror writing, and Peter Straub is his doppelganger, or as what is known as a twinner in this book's universe. 

I genuinely feel this book was created in another universe with both of these amazing writers. It's weird, and it'll make you consider the remote chance that the Territories exist. Unless you have no imagination, I am confident that everyone will like it.

If you are a casual or non-reader, bear this in mind while purchasing the book. It's highly comprehensive, so if you can't take large or complex novels, I'd recommend listening to it on Audiobook. 

Don't pass on Stephen King novels just because they're huge; if they're too daunting, you can always listen to them with an Amazon audible account.

Keep in mind that if you had a loved one who had cancer, it may have an emotional impact on you because Stephen King goes into great detail about individuals who have diseases or impairments, and it may be rather sentimental to those who aren't used to reading his writings.

It's a mix of horror, fantasy, and adventure. What King and Straub accomplished was to build a beautiful narrative full of mystery and suspense, whatever you want to categorize it. 

In The Talisman, Jack Sawyer must travel between his reality and a parallel dimension in order to save his dying mother. 

Despite the protagonist's childhood, the tale has a distinct gloomy edge. It's not all fun and games for Jack, who in this journey has the capacity to switch between universes.

During this time, he befriends Wolf, a werewolf from another dimension. Wolf provides both humorous entertainment and frightening times for Jack when he turns into a werewolf in our world during a full moon.

The late great Frank Muller gives yet another powerful performance, reading in a tense, hypnotic style and developing unique voices for most of the characters in the epic narrative of The Talisman. 

It lasted about 29 hours and was a fantastic way to enjoy a superb novel, especially if you're taking a lengthy road trip or just a regular commute. If you're lucky enough to have the Frank Muller version, I highly suggest the audio version.


Final Thoughts

You must read a few pages before you can get into the main story, but once you do, you will not be able to put it down, and this becomes a really fast-paced novel, even if it is large by many readers' standards, so do not stop and continue reading.

Even if you've never read Peter Straub, you can tell which parts were written by him, and I'll leave it up to the readers to figure it out. 

Yes, it was cooperation and an effort by both authors, but you can tell who is writing what in this narrative, and it was part of the pleasure for me to figure it out.

The novel has a strong action-adventure vibe about it. There are several fascinating connections between the universes, including the relationship between time and distance, as well as the contrast between the usage of magic and technology. 

It's well-created and written. Stephen King and Peter Straub are each excellent authors in their own right, but they work well together.

I would suggest this book to everyone who enjoys an exciting, attention-grabbing fantasy/reality fictional novel.


Synopsis

“The iconic, “extraordinary” (The Washington Post) collaboration between #1 bestselling author Stephen King and Peter Straub—an epic thriller about a young boy’s quest to save his mother’s life.

Why had twelve-year-old Jack Sawyer’s mother frantically moved the two of them from Rodeo Drive to a New York City apartment to the Alhambra, a fading ocean resort and shuttered amusement park in New Hampshire? Who or what is she running from? She is dying . . . and even young Jack knows she can’t outrun death. But only he can save her—for he has been chosen to search for a prize across an epic landscape of dangers and lies, a realm of innocents and monsters, where everything Jack loves is on the line.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Across The Country, Along The Way, Black House, Dark Tower, Highly Recommend, Jack Sawyer, King And Peter, King And Straub, Morgan Sloat, Tower Series


Rating: 95/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

Silver Bullet (1985) (R)

The Tommyknockers (1993) (M)

Christine (1983) (R)

The Dead Zone (1983) (R)

Misery (1990) (R)

Carrie (1976) (R)

Firestarter (1984) (R)

Mr. Mercedes Season 01 (2017) (TV-MA)

Thinner (1996) (R)

The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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Cycle of the Werewolf Review

Stephen King, American, Classic, Contemporary, Fantasy, Fiction, Folk Tales, Graphic, Horror, Literature, Mythology, Shape Shifter, Suspense, Werewolf

Cycle of the Werewolf

Published: November 1983
Author: Stephen King
Genre: American, Classic, Contemporary, Fantasy, Fiction, Folk Tales, Graphic, Horror, Literature, Mythology, Shape Shifter, Suspense, Werewolf

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Stephen King's Cycle of the Werewolf is a short horror story with pictures by comic-book artist Bernie Wrightson. Each chapter is a self-contained mini-story. It depicts the story of a werewolf who haunts a small village when the moon is full once a month. Land of Enchantment released it as a limited edition hardback in 1983, and Signet published it as a mass-market trade paperback in 1985. 

Silver Bullet, the cinematic adaption, was also written by Stephen King (1985). At 127 pages, it is author's smallest novel to date, making it originally a novella. He confesses to taking liberties with the moon cycle in the author's notes at the conclusion of the book. 

For example, if a full moon occurred on New Year's Day, another would not occur on Valentine's Day, despite the fact that these events are generally celebrated in January and February. He argues that this was done to help readers remember the key months more precisely.

This was a brief narrative and a quick read, and the reason it was so short was that it wasn't planned to be a novel; instead, it was going to be a calendar with a tiny amount of information every month, but it was too short, so Stephen King made up a plot to go with the drawings.

The structure consisted of the months of a single year and, in particular, the days on which the full moon occurred, rather than chapters. Because, of course, this was the time when the ugly beast from Tarker Mills appeared to carry out his murderous acts. 

Each month featured a different citizen of the little town who became the werewolf's victim, and the killings were portrayed in graphic, brutal detail in classic Stephen King manner.

There wasn't a lot of character development because the chapters were so short, but I think the author still managed to give us a solid understanding of each person of the community. After all, this is his specialty.

Marty Coslaw was one of my favorite characters. He was a bright, level-headed, brave young man who was confined to a wheelchair and was possibly the most well-developed character in the entire novel.

Berni Wrightson's artwork looked fantastic and provided a lot of dimension and awe to the book.

This book is fantastic. It's unique in that, unlike much of Stephen King's writing, it doesn't revolve around a single character. 

The pictures are also fantastic; it's a fun way to experience the book through the eyes of someone else. 

The book's sole flaw is its brief length. I wish we had a closer look at the werewolf in human form. Stephen King is a brilliant storyteller, so even in a novella, he delivers, but he's so amazing with the werewolf genre that I'd happily read a 5000-page werewolf novel or series from him.

The movie was entertaining to watch and a little scary for young children, plus the pastor's dream can make even an adult scared. 

I watched this movie several times and each time one of my cousins would flee the room because he was terrified, but I told him to watch horror movies so we could learn how to kill the monsters and gave him motivation by making him watch the scene where Marty sitting on Silver Bullet uses the rockets to hurt the beast, and that actually helped my cousin become brave and sit with me to watch horror movies. 

I was so proud of my cousin for what he did next, he watched another of his nightmare movies called Troll, it was actually a very scary movie for kids and I don't remember the details but he was always scared to come in the room when we were watching that movie but, as I mentioned at the beginning of this paragraph, he watched it after the Silver Bullet incident. 

But I believe it was all Stephen King's trick to show kids like him to be brave because if a kid who couldn't even walk can do it, what's to stop a fully capable kid from doing the same?

That is what I learned from this great writer and his writing: he takes an ordinary person and transforms him or her into the bravest hero who inspires and encourages all.

The storyline doesn't completely emerge until halfway through the book, so anyone expecting a plot-driven novella may be disappointed – but the first half does contribute to the suspense element. 

Also, throughout this work, the author appears to have a problem developing female characters, portraying them as lusty, weak-willed doormats, shrieking harpies, or some combination of the three. 

This is a little surprising, given that he's written decent female characters before and after this book; perhaps he was showing or creating an atmosphere of despair or hopelessness, but we'll never know because we're talking about Stephen King, and he knows what he's doing; we just have to dive and find what he threw into the depths of his pages. 

And maybe on the tenth reading, you'll find and comprehend why he did something with a character that we didn't understand the first nine times we read it.


Final Thoughts

Both the movie and the book are good, but the book is far better as usual, even though both are written by Stephen King, the movie has some things added and other things omitted, as is customary. 

I saw the movie first, and then read the book, and it was a good mix. You may either read or watch first, I don't think it matters because you'll be able to appreciate both the book and the movie.

Stephen King is a great writer, his works filled with precise yet stunning details and able to find dark comedy in the most horrendous of situations. 

He's not afraid to give his characters flaws and weaknesses, and although this may lead to a cast full of jerks at times, it's balanced out here by some truly excellent people. 

Even the werewolf is a sympathetic character with plausible reasons for his horrible actions. 

The book's divided into twelve months, with one chapter for each full moon when the beast attacks, is a unique and welcome addition.

A wonderful bite-sized gift from Stephen King for horror enthusiasts and a refreshing change of pace from the flood of werewolf-themed romance that has taken over occult literature in recent years. 

If you want a rip-roaring horror adventure and don't mind the plot taking a second seat to the terror aspect, this is the book for you.


Synopsis

“The classic masterpiece by #1 New York Times bestselling author Stephen King—illustrated by the legendary artist Bernie Wrightson!

Terror began in January—by the light of the full moon...

The first scream came from the snowbound railwayman who felt the werewolf’s fangs ripping at his throat. The next month there was a scream of ecstatic agony from the woman attacked in her cozy bedroom. Now scenes of unbelievable horror unfold each time the full moon shines on the isolated Maine town of Tarker’s Mills. No one knows who will be attacked next. But one thing is sure. When the full moon rises, a paralyzing fear sweeps through Tarker's Mills. For snarls that sound like human words can be heard whining through the wind. And all around are the footprints of a monster whose hunger cannot be sated...”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Berni Wrightson, Bernie Wrightson, Black And White, Corey Haim, Daniel Attias, Everett Mcgill, Full Moon, Gary Busey, Martha De Laurentiis, Martha Schumacher, Marty Coslaw, Quick Read, Short Story, Small Town, Tarker Mills, Town Of Tarker


Rating: 95/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Silver Bullet (1985) (R)

The Tommyknockers (1993) (M)

Christine (1983) (R)

The Dead Zone (1983) (R)

Misery (1990) (R)

Carrie (1976) (R)

Firestarter (1984) (R)

Mr. Mercedes Season 01 (2017) (TV-MA)

Thinner (1996) (R)

The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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The Wind Through the Keyhole Review

Stephen King, Arthurian, Fantasy, Fiction, Media Tie-In, Mystery, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Thriller, Werewolf, Witches, Wizards

The Wind Through the Keyhole

Published: 21, February 2012
Author: Stephen King
Genre: Arthurian, Fantasy, Fiction, Media Tie-In, Mystery, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Thriller, Werewolf, Witches, Wizards
Book 4.5 of 7: The Dark Tower

Check the summary of this book here:
The Wind Through the Keyhole Summary


The Review:

Stephen King's fantasy book The Wind Through the Keyhole is the eighth novel in The Dark Tower series, however, it falls between volumes four "Wizard and Glass" and five "Wolves of the Calla" in chronological order. The book was first referenced by Stephen King in 2009, following the disputed conclusion of the seventh novel "The Dark Tower" in 2004, and was formally revealed on March 10, 2011, on the author's official website.

To begin with, it was nice to hear Eddie, Susannah, Jake, Oy, and Roland's voices come to life again and enjoy their interactions, even if it was just for a few moments.

If you're like many fans who read the entire series before reading this book, you'll understand what I'm talking about. But if you haven't finished part four yet, I recommend you read this book before going on to the fifth.

It doesn't matter if you read it after you finish the series and then come back to read it, but if this is your first trip through the series; I think it's best to read it as part 4.5.

I strongly advise all readers to read the prior four volumes before moving on to this one, since otherwise, you will have no idea of what is going on or who is who or what is what.

This book picks up after the events of Wizard and Glass, with Roland recounting a tale from his past as a teenage gunslinger in a nearby village from Gilead, dealing with a "Skin-Man" monstrosity frightening and slaying the locals.

But about midway through that story, he switches to a fairy tale about a young kid on a journey to save his mother from his violent stepfather.

Overall, this is a fantastic book. It is reasonable to classify it as book 4.5. The novel includes a tale inside a story, which is a unique and intriguing approach to writing a novel.

The story begins with the five members of the band from Book 4 on their quest for The Dark Tower.

They are stuck in a bunker for three days due to a catastrophic storm known as a 'starkblast.' To keep them entertained, Roland recounts them a story from his adolescent years.

The narrative revolves around one of his first missions as a gunslinger when he was dispatched by train to a faraway place to investigate claims of a homicidal shape shifter, which his father does not think are genuine.

The first third of the book is about Roland's past, the second third is about the narrative he tells the youngster, and the third quarter concludes the historical story.

Both stories are well-written and enjoyable to read. The narrative is intriguing, although not as suspenseful as some of author's other novels because we all know Roland will survive the shape shifter.

We also discover a little more about Roland's mother, including a final letter she sent to him. Roland tells the youngster a story about a terrible tax collector from Gilead.

I greatly doubt Roland's mother, who raised Roland in Gilead, the purported stronghold of virtue on the world, would have ever taught him a story about such a guy.

That was the only portion of the work that appeared out of place because the tale could have been presented without mentioning a wicked Gilead representative.

The rest of Roland the boy's narrative was well-developed, particularly in its exploration of elderly people's marvels.

I have a feeling Roland's childhood story isn't totally compatible with the rest of the books; for example, the Manni people in book 5 weren't familiar to Susannah, Jake, and Eddie, despite the fact that they should have known them based on this description. Even yet, given the high quality of the plot, any inconsistencies are small and easily overlooked.

Young Roland's plot goes swiftly and is both interesting and intriguing. It showcases his abilities, even at such a young age, and shares the same spirit of adventure and unpredictability as the previous Tower stories.

The fairy tale itself is well constructed and brimming with Stephen King’s universe references. Finally, I believe the author has done the series honor by continuing it 5 years after he declared it complete.

Adding to a popular series is a tough and hazardous decision. The book, on the other hand, does not feel like an afterthought; rather, it improves what has already been written and makes the voyage as a whole that much more complete and pleasurable.

There are things that can be learned, magic elements to be discovered, a new culture of "muties" to be discovered, and, of course, the beam.

We read of a little boy, maybe eleven years old, whose father was just murdered by a dragon of some kind. In a cruel environment, he and his mother strive for survival.

Just when they think they've discovered their savior, the author throws a curveball into the mix to throw everything off. The young man's quest to save his mother and himself leads us on a perilous trip packed with magic, danger, and suspense.

This is one of the novels that, like the series in which it is set, maybe considered among Stephen King's best.

I still wish we'd seen more of Roland when he was younger. What are the chances? Perhaps the author will continue the Dark Tower Series with a new installment someday.


Final Thoughts:

Even if you've never read any of Stephen King's earlier works, let alone the Tower series, the book may be read as a stand-alone, according to the preface.

True, but doing so would be foolish because so much of it is based on these individuals and their distinct environment.

As a result, I'd only suggest this to someone who has read the Tower Series before or if you're interested in giving them a try, start at the beginning and read this one in the order it appears in the series. You'll be pleased you did, and I am sure of it.

This novel takes us closer to Roland as a young boy as readers. It also helps us comprehend Roland's finality as he grew older.

After Mejis, Roland had attained manhood not merely by passing Cort's gunslinger exam, but also by seeing Mejis' murder and devastation.

Roland reveals his frigid heart to the world for the first time as the nails are pounded deep into the coffin that signifies maturity.

It's also enjoyable to read, providing insight into some of our favorites (if you're a fan of the series). It will draw you back into Roland Deschain's universe as if you had never left it before.

Given the scope of King's Dark Tower levels, the novel fits nicely into the series.

I have to bring out an important truth once more. It is true that this book may be read as a stand-alone novel, but only if you have read the entire series or have finished the fourth book but have not yet begun the fifth; otherwise, it cannot be termed a stand-alone novel, so please keep that in mind when reading this book.


Synopsis:

“In his New York Times bestselling The Wind Through the Keyhole, Stephen King returns to the spectacular territory of the Dark Tower fantasy saga to tell a story about gunslinger Roland Deschain in his early days.

The Wind Through the Keyhole is a sparkling contribution to the series that can be placed between Dark Tower IV and Dark Tower V. This Russian doll of a novel, a story within a story within a story, visits Roland and his ka-tet as a ferocious, frigid storm halts their progress along the Path of the Beam. Roland tells a tale from his early days as a gunslinger, in the guilt-ridden year following his mother’s death. Sent by his father to investigate evidence of a murderous shape-shifter, Roland takes charge of Bill Streeter, a brave but terrified boy who is the sole surviving witness to the beast’s most recent slaughter. Roland, himself only a teenager, calms the boy by reciting a story from the Book of Eld that his mother used to read to him at bedtime, “The Wind Through the Keyhole.” “A person’s never too old for stories,” he says to Bill. “Man and boy, girl and woman, we live for them.”

And stories like The Wind Through the Keyhole live for us with Stephen King’s fantastical magic that “creates the kind of fully imagined fictional landscapes a reader can inhabit for days at a stretch” (The Washington Post).”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords:
Addition To The Dark, Eddie And Susannah, Glass And Wolves, Great Addition, Old Friends, Roland And His Ka-Tet, Within A Story, Wizard and Glass, Wolves of the Calla, Young Roland


Rating: 90/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide Review

Stephenie Meyer, Part of The Twilight Saga, Contemporary, Dating & Sex, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Literary, Romance, Shape Shifter, Sword & Sorcery, Teen, Vampire, Werewolf, Young Adult

The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide

Published: 12, April 2011
Part of The Twilight Saga
Genres: Contemporary, Dating & Sex, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Literary, Romance, Shape Shifter, Sword & Sorcery, Teen, Vampire, Werewolf, Young Adult

Check the summary of this book here:
The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide Summary


The Review:

Stephenie Meyer's The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide is a spin-off encyclopedic reference book based on the Twilight Saga novel series. The Guide includes nearly a hundred full-color illustrations by illustrator Young Kim, who previously illustrated Stephenie Meyer's #1 New York Times Best Seller Twilight: The Graphic Novel, and several other artists, as well as exclusive new material about the world author created in Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Breaking Dawn, and The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner.

I unexpectedly enjoyed this, and I especially enjoyed the visuals and the author's interview. I liked reading about the side characters, Forks, and the whole sensation of returning to the series.

Yes, I'm sure you could get a lot of the information and data on the internet, but I liked having everything in one place.

To my surprise, this book is fairly long and substantial. The section on international book covers was particularly fantastic. (I enjoy collecting books with a variety of covers.)

This reminded me a lot of the time before the series' movies burst, and it gave me a sense of how things felt back then.

This book will clarify a lot of the topics that everyone was left wondering after reading the books; once again, it is for those readers who have been drawn deeply into the world of Twilight.

There are numerous illustrations and in-depth stories about all of the characters, not just the vampires and werewolves; it is really about all of the characters, as well as other information about various aspects of Twilight, such as the local environment and landscapes, vehicles mentioned, timelines, and key plot points from all of the books.

I find the drawings to be both pleasing and irritating: as you read the book, you form your own vision of things, which may or may not correspond to what the author intended or how some artist views things. So don't care about photographs if you want your own perspective.

It's also worth noting that this book is based on the novels rather than the films. As is customary, a lot was modified when the narrative was filmed, so don't expect this book to be related to the movies. Even the characters, as well as everything else, has a distinct appearance.

The extensive interview with Stephenie Meyer about how the narrative came to be, and how the same story was published with a variety of covers, was maybe the most fascinating aspect of this book for me.

Also enjoyable to read were the question and answer portion at the conclusion of the book, as well as the outtakes.

I can't think of anything else I disliked about this book except that I kept hoping for representations of some of the lesser characters mentioned in order to understand Stephenie Meyer's perspective on them.

To begin, I appreciate how the guidebook is split into several areas of significance. Beginning with a beautiful chat between Shannon Hale and Stephenie Meyer discussing each of the four books and the success she has had as a result of them.

The book then shifts to the Twilight Saga's main focus: vampires. Discussing the many aspects of the Twilight vampires, as well as how they compare to typical vampires from stories. I really loved portions like Vampire History and Vampire Law.

As we go through Covens, we begin to receive maps of Forks, as well as statistics and information about the Cullens.

I didn't anticipate much more to be mentioned about Rosalie or Bella since the history was covered so effectively in the Eclipse book and movie, but I was surprised by the additions that were given, such as with Bella's parents and when Jasper was teaching a newborn.

While Renesmee was just introduced in Breaking Dawn, it's good to have her included in this space as well. While the Volturi were as well-known in Twilight as the Cullens, it was interesting to discover more about the other covens.

Though it's a shame the author wasn't able to add images of what she imagined the Amazon or Egyptian vampires to look like.

We compare the actual Children of the Moon werewolves to the Twilight shape-shifting werewolves when we come to the werewolf chapter.

We have a better understanding of their relationship to the family trees offered. Illustrations of Leah and other characters as seen through the eyes of the author would have been excellent.

There's a lot of material here that I didn't know from regular literature, which I won't spoil.

The section on humans has a large number of minor characters, many of whom I have difficulties recalling from the novels due to their modest roles.

It's fantastic that the Twilight universe's timeline does not begin with the first novel, but rather with ancient Greece and the early Saga vampires and werewolves.

The key points of the novels are labeled with the chapters in which the events or statements occur. The worldwide fan art and European covers added a lot to the book's appeal.

I was hesitant at first about a certain cash cow milking endeavor, but this book is gorgeous and thorough, and it provides a lot of background information. This book should be in the library of each Twilight franchise lover.


Final Thoughts:

You should read this book if you like the Twilight series, but bear in mind that it is not a tale. It delves a little deeper into the characters and how they are related to one another, whether by blood or by relationships.

If you've ever wanted to learn a little more about a character from the novels, this will most likely satisfy your curiosity.

The author didn't simply create characters for the novels; she also gave them backstories that may or may not have been explored in the books, and this gives honor to those backstories.

This book is for Twilight lovers that adore the series, movies, and must have everything they can get their hands on.

I expected it to be a ridiculous book with a bunch of crap in it to build up some more buzz. But I was relieved that I was incorrect!

This book includes a terrific and entertaining interview with the author, as well as myths and information about vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures.

Each character in the Saga is given their own history, and you'll learn some new details that you didn't know before. The artwork, the added information, and the book as a whole were all fantastic.

I must caution readers who are new to the series or have never read it before that you will be spoilt as to how it all ends unless you read them all first.

It's well worth the money, and every Twilight Saga fan should have it.


Synopsis:

“The essential guide to the #1 bestselling Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer!

A definitive encyclopedic reference to the Twilight Saga, providing readers with everything they need to further explore the unforgettable world Stephenie Meyer created in Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Breaking Dawn, and The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner. This comprehensive handbook—perfect for every Twilight Saga fan—is full-color throughout, with nearly one hundred gorgeous illustrations and photographs, character profiles, genealogical charts, maps, extensive cross-references, inspirational playlists, an in-depth conversation with author Shannon Hale, and much more.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords:

Andrew Niccol, Anna Kendrick, Bella And Edward, Bella Swan, Beau And Edythe, Billy Burke, Breaking Dawn, Bree Tanner, Character Development, Catherine Hardwicke, Chris Weitz, Drama, Eclipse, Edge of your seat, Edward And Bella, Edward Cullen, Edward and Jacob, Edwards Perspective, Edwards Point, Edwards Pov, Even Though, Ever Read, Fall In Love, Fantasy, Happily Ever, Harry Potter, High School, Highly Recommend, Illustrated Guide, Jake Abel, Jacob Black, Kristen Stewart, Least Favorite, Life And Death, Life of Bree, Looking Forward, Max Irons, Midnight Sun, New Information, Newborn Vampire, New Moon, Official Illustrated, Open Mind, Original Twilight, Plot Points, Point Of View, Previous Books, Really Enjoyed, Robert Pattinson, Romance, Romeo and Juliet, Saga The Official, Second Life, Shannon Hale, Short Second, Saoirse Ronan, Stephanie Meyer, Stephenie Meyer, Story Line, Taylor Lautner, Third Book, Twilight Books, Twilight Fan, Twilight Saga, Twilight Series, Twilight and New, Well Written, Years Ago, Young Adult Audience, Young Adult


Rating: 90/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

The Twilight Saga Complete Collection

The Host (2013) (PG-13)

Twilight (2010) (PG-13)

New Moon (2009) (PG-13)

Eclipse (2010) (PG-13)

Breaking Dawn - Part 1 (2011) (PG-13)

Breaking Dawn - Part 2 (2012) (PG-13)

Compare Kindle E-readers on one page

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Any kind of support, even a simple 'like, thumbs up or a small comment' is enough and helps me grow, create and freely do more stuff and work on projects for the benefit of many.
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Life and Death: Twilight Reimagined Review

Stephenie Meyer, Part of The Twilight Saga, Dating & Sex, Fiction, Ghost, Paranormal, Romance, Shape Shifter, Teen, Vampire, Werewolf, Young Adult

Life and Death: Twilight Reimagined

Published: 6, October 2015
Part of The Twilight Saga
Genres: Dating & Sex, Fiction, Ghost, Paranormal, Romance, Shape Shifter, Teen, Vampire, Werewolf, Young Adult

Check the summary of this book here:
Life and Death: Twilight Reimagined Summary


The Review:

Stephenie Meyer's Life and Death: Twilight Reimagined is a young adult vampire romance book. The narrative is a gender-flipped retelling of the Twilight series' first novel, "Twilight," and features Beau Swan and Edythe Cullen in lieu of Bella and Edward. The book was first released on October 6, 2015, as part of a gigantic flip-book coupling with Twilight to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the original novel.

I didn't care for this book at first and thought it was just another attempt by the author to milk her cash cow, Twilight, but I persisted in reading it.

After reading all of the Twilight novels, it felt as though she was simply substituting pronouns, names, and genders for Twilight's tale.

I was hesitant to continue reading since it was so repetitious, but I'm a wild reader who wants to read everything. Once I start reading one author, I want to read all of his or her previous or future novels, so I persevered.

I'm pleased I did because it wasn't simply the same tale given in the same way as Twilight; it was a little different, and I realized I could call it a new story.

The primary turning point, which I acknowledge is still tied to the gender roles flip, was that the protagonist is a guy, a teenage fella with hormones, therefore I felt like he was more upfront in adoration than Bella in Twilight.

I think the easiest approach to reading this book is to forget about the Twilight series and read it as a standalone novel. Don't attempt to connect the names with the original cast of characters since you'll be confused at first.

I realized around halfway through the book that I was waiting to find out all of the gender-swapped names just for fun, and it really helped me complete this book.

I don't want to give anything away about the finish, but I was concerned about where it would wind up and how repetitious it would be.

To be honest, the conclusion is the only reason I gave this book more points than I planned since I felt it was a unique and different ending than Twilight's, and it solved a lot of concerns throughout the book so I wasn't left wondering, while still being surprised.

The author does a good job of describing the environment, the clumsiness of adolescence, and the all-consuming pull of first love.

She understands what it's like to long for someone, and she gives the reader a taste of fantasy by allowing that longing infatuation to be mutual, with only exterior difficulties to contend with.

And she does a better job of explaining the character's intentions in this story. In addition, the characters are more likable.

With this rendition, I believe there are too many characters for the duration of the tale the author is telling.

It was nice when she had more space and more novels to give the characters room to breathe, but there's not enough for everyone to do here.

And I believe the whole werewolf subplot might have been omitted because she doesn't do anything with them and it complicates the finale.

This review has a number of criticisms, yet it is not a bad book by any stretch of the word. The author did spend time tweaking some of the original's more uncomfortable passages, and she did develop a more appealing cast of people.

Stephenie Meyer is kind of a talented author. For the first three-quarters of the book, she kept me reading and captivated by the characters. It's a novel for daydreaming rather than profound thought, which isn't always a bad thing.

Personally, I believe she needs a better editor and someone to challenge some of her views, but she is a fine writer who deserves some recognition.

This was a unique take on the vampire-human relationship that I enjoyed. Compared to Twilight and Midnight Sun, this novel went at a much quicker pace.

Beau's persona remains empty, he cooks and cleans the house, he's still clumsy, and he doesn't have any other interests to redeem himself.

The conclusion is satisfying and unexpected. It'll be fascinating to see where the tale goes from here.

So, if you like Twilight series, I recommend you read this one. If you weren't a fan of the Twilight series then I believe you have two options: ignore it or read it as a new book, in which case you may enjoy it because it is far better than the original.


Final Thoughts:

First and foremost, I must state that I am not a great fan of the original series; I don't dislike it, but I also don't adore it. I believe the series and author receive far more criticism than they deserve.

However, if you read The Host or The Chemist, you'll see that she's a really strong writer right now.

When I initially started reading this novel, the first thing that happened was that I had to acclimate to the new names and match them up with existing characters. Like I knew McKayla was Mike and Jessica was Jeremy and so on.

Because the events in the Twilight novel differed from those in the movie, my mind had to reconcile those variations with my expectations for this tale. Once I got through that, I was able to let the plot expand and stray in unexpected places.

I agree that the main characters' connection is unsatisfactory. There are also parts of the narrative that require two or three acts to build up when they might be done in one.

And there are certain sections that are just pointless or, to put it another way, fillers that are utilized to make the book longer.

However, most authors struggle with these types of planning and interpersonal challenges. And I believe she resolves some, if not all, of the difficulties raised here.

I assumed it would be silly, but it's not just a gender switch; Edythe and Beau are wholly separate individuals.

They are significantly different from Bella and Edward in terms of personality. There were a lot of twists and turns in the plot. Overall, it is a fantastic read. And I'd definitely suggest it!


Synopsis:

“For fans of the worldwide phenomenon Twilight comes a bold reimagining of Stephenie Meyer's novel, telling the classic love story but in a world where the characters' genders are reversed.

There are two sides to every story . . .
You know Bella and Edward, now get to know Beau and Edythe.
When Beaufort Swan moves to the gloomy town of Forks and meets the mysterious, alluring Edythe Cullen, his life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn. With her porcelain skin, golden eyes, mesmerizing voice, and supernatural gifts, Edythe is both irresistible and enigmatic.

What Beau doesn't realize is the closer he gets to her, the more he is putting himself and those around him at risk. And, it might be too late to turn back . . .

With a foreword and afterword by Stephenie Meyer, this compelling reimagining of the iconic love story is a must-read for Twilight fans everywhere.

The series has been praised as New York Times and USA Today bestsellers, a Time magazine Best Young Adult Book of All Time, an NPR Best Ever Teen Novel, and a New York Times Editor's Choice. Enrapturing millions of readers since its first publication, Twilight has become a modern classic, leaving readers yearning for more.

It's here! #1 bestselling author Stephenie Meyer makes a triumphant return to the world of Twilight with the highly anticipated companion, Midnight Sun: the iconic love story of Bella and Edward told from the vampire's point of view."


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords:

Andrew Niccol, Anna Kendrick, Bella And Edward, Bella Swan, Beau And Edythe, Billy Burke, Breaking Dawn, Bree Tanner, Character Development, Catherine Hardwicke, Chris Weitz, Drama, Eclipse, Edge of your seat, Edward And Bella, Edward Cullen, Edward and Jacob, Edwards Perspective, Edwards Point, Edwards Pov, Even Though, Ever Read, Fall In Love, Fantasy, Happily Ever, Harry Potter, High School, Highly Recommend, Jake Abel, Jacob Black, Kristen Stewart, Least Favorite, Life And Death, Life of Bree, Looking Forward, Max Irons, Midnight Sun, Newborn Vampire, New Moon, Open Mind, Original Twilight, Point Of View, Previous Books, Really Enjoyed, Robert Pattinson, Romance, Romeo and Juliet, Second Life, Short Second, Saoirse Ronan, Stephanie Meyer, Stephenie Meyer, Story Line, Taylor Lautner, Third Book, Twilight Books, Twilight Fan, Twilight Saga, Twilight Series, Twilight and New, Well Written, Years Ago, Young Adult Audience, Young Adult


Rating: 90/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

The Twilight Saga Complete Collection

The Host (2013) (PG-13)

Twilight (2010) (PG-13)

New Moon (2009) (PG-13)

Eclipse (2010) (PG-13)

Breaking Dawn - Part 1 (2011) (PG-13)

Breaking Dawn - Part 2 (2012) (PG-13)

Compare Kindle E-readers on one page

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Any kind of support, even a simple 'like, thumbs up or a small comment' is enough and helps me grow, create and freely do more stuff and work on projects for the benefit of many.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
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