Review: Fade by Lisa McMann

Synopsis: From Amazon
For Janie and Cabel, real life is getting tougher than the dreams. Disturbing things are happening at Fieldridge High, yet nobody's talking. When Janie taps into a classmate's violent nightmares, the case finally breaks open - but nothing goes as planned. Not even close. Janie's in way over her head, and Cabe's shocking behaviour has grave consequences for them both. And if that isn't bad enough, Janie has discovered Martha Stubin's journals, and what she learns through them chills her to the bone. For not only is her fate as a Dream Catcher sealed, but what's to come is so much darker than she'd ever feared...It seems that some nightmares never end...

Review:
I looked back at my review of Wake and  thought OMG what was I thinking, as Fade really drew me in, the overall impression I had was WOW. For me my enjoyment was increased due to there being far less crying. Although feelings run high and emotions sometimes get the better of the characters, the way in which they related to each other and the other characters within the book was much better. I realise that this is due to the fact both Janie and Cabel are working through their emotional issues. Growing emotional stronger thanks to their relationship.

The start of Fade finds Janie & Cabel a few months after the end of Wake. They are still unable to be open about their relationship while still in high school. Their relationship is very intense for their age. Their shared lack of parenting bonds them together. their traumatic childhood ties them deeply together. There are little recaps throughout Fade but not enough to make Wake superfluous.

I liked Janie far more than in Wake, she is learning to control her participation within the dreams as much as she is able. The depiction of the effects it has on her both mentally and physically gave depth to the storyline. She is becoming emotionally and physically stronger thanks to Cabel and The Captain. Janie is finally beginning to accept herself and take responsibility for own well being.

Both Cabel and Janie are mature beyond their years, Cabel especially is extremely well organised (I notice these things as I am on a get organised drive). They have had responsibility from a young age and it has shaped their personality and interactions.

I did feel Cabel was maybe over compensating for his lack of love as a child by being over-protective and possessive with Janie. Very intense emotions at play here. I am not really sure whether their relationship can be classed as 'healthy'.

I adored the communication between Cabel and Janie via email. Something I can completely relate to. Sometimes it is easier to open up when you are not dealing with that person face to face. Easier to express yourself without worry of interruption, rebuke or losing your train of thought. I also felt that the emails showed a lot more of the character development, their history and its repercussions.

The dream sequences are even more vivid and three dimensional. The high school dream imagery was rather amusing ;) The sub-plot with the revelations of the previous Dream Catcher, Miss Stubins, interwoven into the narrative gave depth to the plot. The information given was amazing and via which we are able to understand Janie better, even empathise with her.

My skin literally crawled with the depiction of a teacher abusing their position of authority. The party was so disturbing on so nay levels. For me, from the perspective of a parent *shudders* my heart pounded and my stomach clenched while reading it. I literally had palpitations. Cabel's reaction following the party was heart breaking.

This book certainly had the WOW factor. It is amusing in parts, romantic in others while weaving in tension and drama. I can definitely say this is one I am going to remember for a long time.

PS I really, really want to read Gone NOW!!!!!!!

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