The Host by Stephenie Meyer
Series: The Host #1
Release Date: Jan 8 2013
Publisher: Back Bay Books
The phenomenal #1 bestseller is now a major motion picture: "Startling and addictive. . . . An epic story of love, family, and loyalty." -USA Today Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. Our world has been invaded by an unseen enemy that takes over the minds of human hosts while leaving their bodies intact. But Wanderer, the invading "soul" who occupies Melanie's body, finds its former tenant refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. As Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of Jared, a human who lives in hiding, Wanderer begins to yearn for a man she's never met. Soon Wanderer and Melanie-reluctant allies-set off to search for the man they both love. Featuring one of the most unusual love triangles in literature, THE HOST is a riveting and unforgettable novel about the persistence of love and the essence of what it means to be human.
I didn't expect to like this book. I mean, I hated twilight so I thought, "A Stephenie Meyer book? Give me a break.." The only reason I bought this was because there was a signing near me and I just couldn't not go. The Host surprised me and I must say I really enjoyed it!
I absolutely ADORED the characters in this book. I liked how Mel and Wanda were stuck in one body and I liked their relationship. They hated each other at first but grew on each other. I really liked their sisterly love and I liked Wanda's unconditional love for Mel that she had. I really loved Ian as well, for loving Wanda even though she was the sworn enemy of human kind. And I loved Jared for believing that Mel was still there (though I think it took some convincing).
The love square (yes, square) was fairly interesting. I guess I did like the whole Mel/Wanda/Jared/Ian thing. I liked how everything worked out in the end but there were certainly some romantic tension. I mean, how awkward is it for there to be two minds in one body and they both want different guys? I'll tell. One big fat AWKWARD.. Yep. But I did work out in the end so I'm happy about that.
I really liked the idea of the aliens. It was interesting but also unbelievable to see Wanda talk about all these planets that she's been to. I just find those planets weird but it was something refreshing to read about all the same.
The one thing I would complain about is that they didn't get out of the cave much. There wasn't much action; it was just mostly everyday life and drama and all that romantic stuff (and listening to Mel + Wanda's thoughts as well). I would've appreciated it if they fought some badass alien or went on an adventure or something. That was the only thing I would've changed.
Overall, I really liked it but I would've liked some more kickass scenes. This book is definitely more focused on human interaction and how Wanda adapts to everything. I don't know how long we have to wait for the sequel but hopefully we'd actually get some news on it soon. I would definitely go check out the movie!
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Haha I stayed away from this book cause it's by Stephenie Meyer too! While I haven't read Twilight, I know that I'm not gonna like it so I'd better not read it anyway xD I heard that The Host is much better than Twilight but my friend -- who is a fan of Twilight Saga -- didn't enjoy this book and she said it was too confusing...
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that you liked this despite you hated Twilight. I always like aliens so maybe I'm giving this book a chance someday. (It looks so thick I'm kinda intimidated...)
P.S: I LOVE your new blog desing!! It looks very simple and minimalist and... even more professional! I'm wondering, how did you put that post slider on your home page? I'm hoping I can redesign my blog this month cause it's my six months blogging anniversary at the end of June xD
DeleteEh.. I liked this better than I liked Twilight but overall this one was okay. I definitely enjoyed the alien aspect. And thank you! I worked really hard on the blog design. My work has paid off, it seems :) You can email me about the slider. I'll try and help you but I didn't set up the whole slider by myself.
DeleteI haven't watched the movie for this one yet but I really want to! I think the movie promises a lot more action than the book actually has. As for Twilight, I forced myself through all four books so I could know what the twihearts are fangirling about. This one is definitely more enjoyable than Twilight though.
ReplyDeleteI've been wanting to read this for a while. I actually did like Twilight, and I love the premise for The Host. I'm so glad it's good! Amazing review and I love the new design :)
ReplyDeleteYou should try it out and see if you like it! And thank you :)
DeleteI agree with you, I didn't like Twilight too much but I really enjoyed The Host. Still haven't seen the movie though... I agree, the love "square" actually did work, considering the circumstances. Great review!
ReplyDeleteAlise @ Readers In Wonderland
I really did enjoy the love square. I thought I would've hated it but it's good!
DeleteI've seen the movie and thought it was alright but it was WAY better than Twilight. I'm glad to see that this was more intersting that the love square wasn't too annoying.
ReplyDeleteLovely review and great new design! <33
I've yet to see the movie so I'm hoping I get to watch it soon! It IS way better than Twilight.. but that might've been because I hated Bella. And thank you! I worked hard on my design :)
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