Friday, August 7, 2015

Review: Shine by Jeri Smith-Ready

Title: Shine
Author: Jeri Smith-Ready
Series: Book Three in the Shade Trilogy
Published By: Simon Pulse (May 1, 2012)
Source: Purchased
Genre: YA Fantasy
My Rating: 4 Stars


Book Description:
In this dramatic conclusion to the Shade trilogy, Aura and Zachary’s relationship sizzles as the secrets of the Shift are revealed.

Life can change in an instant, and no one understands that better than Aura. It’s been almost a year since her boyfriend tragically died. She’s finally letting go of Logan’s violet-hued ghost, but not her search to uncover the truth about her past.

As the first in a generation that can see ghosts, Aura is convinced she has a connection to the Shift. She’s trusted Zachary, ever patient and ever by her side, with all that she knows. But when the government threatens his life in an attempt to learn Aura’s secrets, she will stop at nothing to protect herself and the one she loves...even if that means betraying her own heart.









As much as I have loved this series, and loved Logan, I was super excited to get a chance to have a book with just Aura and Zach in it. I adored Logan, but I have always loved Zach and his Scottish brogue. 

It has taken me forever to finish this trilogy and I couldn't even give you a good excuse as to why other than in the madness of blog tours, ARCs, and everything else, I had completely forgotten about it, which is s shame because this is a fabulous series. So well written and so much fun.

Even though this last installment was a bit more serious than the others, it was also my favorite of the bunch. I loved seeing Aura grow up and even though she will always love Logan, it was nice seeing her move on and see what was real and tangible right in front of her. It was nice to see her finally picturing her future and wanting it. To maker her wishes and dreams a reality while still trying to solve the mystery behind the Shift and look out for those she loves.

A lot is discovered, a lot happens, and a lot of changes occur for everyone, not just Zach and Aura. We meet some new people (loved Martin!), and of course see some very familiar faces. 

All in all this was a fabulous conclusion to the trilogy and I am so sad that it is over but happy at the same time because I got exactly what I wanted from it and left the series with a smile on my face. 




49 comments:

  1. So glad you enjoyed this one and the trilogy overall! I feel like most of the time trilogies leave me with an eh feeling so it is awesome you loved all three- Great review!

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    1. I know exactly what you mean, it seems to be rare that one ends right and that is so sad!

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  2. OMG yay! I love this series so much! It's one of the only love triangles that worked for me because it made sense. I loved Logan too, but my heart was definitely with Zach. I think this was my favorite book in the series too. I loved how swoony it was.
    Lovely review, Ali!

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    1. Yes! I love Zach in this, my heart broke for him so many times and I agree, the triangle really did work considering everything.

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  3. Yeah Ali! It's been a while since I've read this trilogy but I remember loving it as well. I was definitely team Zach, that Logan pulled at my heartstrings for sure. Glad this last installment was everything you wanted it to be:)

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    1. Thanks Jenny, I'm so happy it was as well and I agree, I loved Logan and well but it was so hard to resist Zach. ;)

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  4. I love it when I can finish a series and can say it all ended well - Yay for Shine being a great conclusion!

    Happy Friday, Ali - hope you have a fabulous weekend :)

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    1. Thanks so much Kim, I really hope you do as well! :D

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  5. As usual, I'm not too happy about the love triangle, but I've heard so much praise for these books! I understand how easily we can get lost with all the tours and arcs we take on, I've done it more than once. I'm glad the ending didn't disappoint you.

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    1. Thanks Maja and if it helps, it really does work in this because of all the circumstances surrounding it. ;)

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  6. The love triangle thing... Lol. No one likes to read about them anymore! I haven't got around to trying this trilogy, though I've heard wonderful opinions about it. And you review confirms them all. If only there was enough time to read them all! :))

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    1. I know I know but it did work in this I promise! And yes, too many great books out there, not enough hours in the day!

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  7. Oh Ali this sounds great maybe this will get me to like YA fiction :)

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  8. Oh man, I can't remember if I finished this series! I should go look on goodreads and check. It seems like these days I rarely ever manage to finish a series.

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    1. I feel that way all the time too Candace. :(

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  9. It's been a while since I read the first book. Unfortunately, I couldn't read the rest of the series. :/

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    1. Sorry to hear that Joy but I can see why they aren't for everyone, especially with the love triangle.

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  10. I have this author on my must read list and I just haven't picked up a book by her. So many people have recommended this series to me and you are making me cave... ;)

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  11. It is always nice when the last book is your favorite and despite the darker tones I am happy it ended well for you

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  12. Sorry it's the last book, but it's cool it's your favorite of the three. I read the first one a LONG time ago, so I need to re-read and then read the rest. I love Jeri though! she's great. :)

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  13. Always nice when a series or trilogy ends in a great way.

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  14. It's been a while since I read this but gosh do I love this series! I'm totally team Logan but I love Zach, too. And the tears I shed since the first book...

    Haraiah @ Random Things In Action

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    1. It was hard not to get emotional over everything!

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  15. I hate when a good series ends but it feels so satisfying.

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  16. *sniffs* Girl this book sounds so bittersweet. It's a heart tugger, huh? Don't get me wrong, I like bittersweet reads but if they're done in the right way. I mean, I don't want to be all depressed and stuff at the ending. Awesome review Ali!♡♡♡

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  17. *sniffs* Girl this book sounds so bittersweet. It's a heart tugger, huh? Don't get me wrong, I like bittersweet reads but if they're done in the right way. I mean, I don't want to be all depressed and stuff at the ending. Awesome review Ali!♡♡♡

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    1. The ending isn't depressing at all, I promise!

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  18. I never heard of this but it sounds interesting!

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  19. Better late than never!

    I find that it's best if we're in the mood to read a particular book versus doing it because of a deadline/requirement. It's more enjoyable because there's less pressure. Your review seems to support my theory :)

    I hope you're having a great weekend!

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  20. The last book in the trilogy is your favorite, eh? Hmm ... sounds promising. I wouldn't doubt if I already have the first book.

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  21. I've never heard of this, but that cover and description have me interested !
    Lovely review :)

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  22. I'm glad a good series ended well. I still haven't started it, but I'm glad I know Logan won't be 'the one' because I can see myself falling for him lol

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  23. I'm glad a good series ended well. I still haven't started it, but I'm glad I know Logan won't be 'the one' because I can see myself falling for him lol

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  24. Sounds like a great book. It's so hard for me to commit to a series these days because I'm always SO behind on my reading!

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  25. You know, I always find I will find an excuse not to read the last book in an awesome series in a timely matter. It's like my subconscious doesn't want it to be over.

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    1. Sadly I do that too! Sometimes it just too hard to say goodbye. ;)

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