Mini-Review: Forbidden by Syrie James

Title: Forbidden

Series: Not Confirmed

Author: Syrie James and Ryan M James

Publisher: HarperCollins Childrens Book Group (US)

Publication Date: 15 Feb 2012

Source: Bought

Rating: 3/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

She should not exist.

He should not love her.

Claire Brennan has been attending Emerson Academy for two years now (the longest she and her mom have remained anywhere) and she's desperate to stay put for the rest of high school. So there's no way she's going to tell her mom about the psychic visions she's been having or the creepy warnings that she's in danger.

Alec MacKenzie is fed up with his duties to watch and, when necessary, eliminate the descendants of his angelic forefathers. He chose Emerson as the ideal hiding place where he could be normal for once. He hadn't factored Claire into his plans. . . .

Their love is forbidden, going against everything Alec has been taught to believe. But when the reason behind Claire's unusual powers is revealed and the threat to her life becomes clear, how far will Alec go to protect her?

REVIEW

So you may have already guessed that I am a complete sucker for angel books. This was a definite case of love at first sight of that cover. Although I did enjoy the story as a whole I can honestly say that there was nothing new here at all and this is reflected in my rating. Don't get me wrong its a fun, light read that is a terrific way of whiling away a few hours and I am definitely interested to see how the story progresses in the next book. 

The dual first person narrative works really well and I found it interesting that the authors are Mother and Son, they are very much in tune as writers and the characters they have created are believable and realistic (well as realistic as angels get anyway).

The best way I can think to describe this book is a mash-up of angel paranormal romance alongside a Da Vinci Code type thriller, with warring angel factions, secret divisions within the factions looking for peace with Claire as a pivotal piece to both sides, creates an engaging plot. The romantic element is compelling; the chemistry between  Claire and Alex added to the overall effect of the plot. The history and origin of the Nephilim is well depicted and believable. There is plenty of action to keep the plot flowing smoothly.

As I said earlier my rating is a reflection that although the book is a nice way to spend a few hours there is nothing new here at all. This does not mean that I'm ready to give up on the series just yet. I'd be interested to see just where this one is going.