Hereafter by Tara Hudson
Can there truly be love after death?
Drifting in the dark waters of a mysterious river, the only thing Amelia knows for sure is that she's dead. With no recollection of her past life—or her actual death—she's trapped alone in a nightmarish existence. All of this changes when she tries to rescue a boy, Joshua, from drowning in her river. As a ghost, she can do nothing but will him to live. Yet in an unforgettable moment of connection, she helps him survive.
Amelia and Joshua grow ever closer as they begin to uncover the strange circumstances of her death and the secrets of the dark river that held her captive for so long. But even while they struggle to keep their bond hidden from the living world, a frightening spirit named Eli is doing everything in his power to destroy their newfound happiness and drag Amelia back into the ghost world . . . forever.
Thrilling and evocative, with moments of pure pleasure, Hereafter is a sensation you won't want to miss.
Published in US: June 2011
1st in series
Source: Netgalley
My review:
I really enjoyed the love story and main idea behind Hereafter. I was drawn in with Amelia's battle with the aftermath of dying, her nightmares, and then waking up to a world around her. Josh is great, and I love the idea of a sweet and hot guy that is one of the few who can see her. Unfortunately another "person" that can see her isn't so sweet--in fact, he's evil. The additions of Grandma Ruth and Josh's sister are interesting. I would have liked to see a little more resolution with Ruth, because it seems like she goes from hating Amelia, as she should as a "ghost hunter/exorcist" to pretty much out of the picture.
I think that the main plot line was wrapped up fairly well, although I'd liked more of my questions answered. I know it's a first in a series, but to me, the ending felt rushed.
Though with the great story idea and the sweet romance, I still recommend this one!
I got this one from Netgalley too, but haven't read it yet. I HATE rushed endings!!! I can't wait to read this one though. I love a good sweet romance! :)
ReplyDeleteYeah, the ending felt a bit rushed. I still love the book though. I wonder what Ruth would do in the next book? Amelia did practically save her granddaughter but maybe it won't matter to her anymore.
ReplyDeleteThis one looks amazing! Any idea yet when the follow-up will be released?
ReplyDeleteRuth creeped me out. I thought she was just plain nasty. Hopefully she comes around in the next book.
ReplyDeleteI really liked the romance, which I thought was rather measure for a YA PNR; interested to see what happens next!
ReplyDeleteI thought this book was amazing! I love Joshua and his relationship with Amelia. Eli is plain creepy, lol. Can't wait for the next one!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed this one as well, though I do agree I would have like a little more with Ruth since that seemed like it was going to be a fairly huge problem:) Definitely looking forward to more from this world!
ReplyDeleteThis one drew my eye the first time I saw it. The concept piqued my interest right away, and what a great cover. I've been meaning to pick it up and haven't got around to it yet. Now I'll have to!
ReplyDeleteI don't like it when the ending is rushed, but the story sounds really good to pass this one because of that. Hopefully I will enjoy it as much as you did. ;) Great review.
ReplyDeleteI've heard mixed reviews of this one... but I think I'm going to opt to read it. Thanks for the review Brandi!
ReplyDeleteI love the cover for this book and I've been into paranormal books recently. I'm excited to read this! Great review!
ReplyDelete-Danna
I shouted out about your blog: http://www.simplystacie.net/2011/07/saturday-featured-blog-lm-preston/
ReplyDeleteBummer about the rushed ending, but this still sounds like an intriguing read. I love ghost stories, and ones where only one person (or a few) can see them especially so. Thanks for the rec!
ReplyDeleteSmiles!
Lori
Breathtaking and eerie in its telling, HEREAFTER sheds beauty on the entangled existence of life and death. The story is unique and enthralling; I was immersed into its pages completely. A world beyond the living, the Hereafter dug its claws into me and never let up
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