The Wolves of Mercy Falls are back and it's better than ever! This book is the heart-wrenching second instalment to the best-selling Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater.
In this second instalment we finally see Sam and Grace together and fighting hard against all the odds to stay together. But the only thing standing between them and their happiness is Grace's parents who take sudden interest in parenting, after a whole life time of giving her space and “a whole planet to roam”, they set rules. When they find Sam one night sleeping over, it creates uproar and makes things difficult for Sam and Grace. Grace, unhappy with her parent's decision, becomes defiant and rebellion (go Grace!), breaking away from the conventional character from the last book.
Whilst all this happening an unknown and strange disease starts to take over Grace, changing her, which her parents do not seem to acknowledge at all and show lack of interest in. Sam on the other is baffled and puzzled as to what is going on with Grace and what's with the stress of being the next pack leader after Beck. Also handling the new wolves. Adding into the mixture a new wolf, Cole who only cares about becoming a full-time wolf, whose dark past can potentially destroy the pack. Isabel on the other hand cool, nonchalant and harsh is irresistibly drawn to him.
As always Stiefvater narration and writing is just beautiful. Her writing for the POVs is extremely clear and gives a deep insight to the character's mind. She takes us through a journey, one narrative to the other. The new character Cole brings a whole new flair to the storyline, as the plot twists and turns. Making your heart beat faster than ever.
Each character in this novel is trying to figure out something about themselves and their lives. For....
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Sam it's maturing, growing up, believing and having faith in his cure. Also evaluating the possibilities of the future.
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Grace is in pain, she is changing, strong, loving and for the first time disobedient and rebelling.
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Isabel is detached, cold, consumed, harsh, numb, direct and lonely. She is for the first time trying to connect and feel something. Reaching out.
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Cole is hating, hiding, unpredictable, learning, and converting, for the first time giving, tolerating his own reflection and trying to forget. Moving on.
All of these create magic, making it unforgettable. This book is despairing and beautiful. It's heart-wrenching and deep.
At times harrowing and euphoric, Linger is a spell-bounding poignant love story, exploring both sides of love. It's a book you could settle in with after a long day. Overall this book is really good, recommended to all.