Friday, January 15, 2010

Hush, Hush


I recently had the pleasure of finishing Becca Fitzpatrick's first book, 'Hush, Hush'. Along with hitting one of my major weak spots (fallen angels) my favorite part of the book was Fitzpatrick's use of language. When authors get caught up in proper

syntax, correct grammar or current slang they often neglecting what the characters are actuallysaying. But never once while reading 'Hush, Hush'did I think to myself, "People don't talk like that," such is the case with so many other young adult books. Fitzpatrick knows how to write and it shows in her debut young adult novel.

My apparent obsession about her use of words aside, the story is pretty good too. While it mirrors the "I want to kill/eat/otherwise maim you" romance of some other young adult novels out there, it at least uses the refreshing twist of angels instead of vampires/werewolves/ghosts. The story never seems trite, overdone or predictable. Even though it starts off with a new biology partner, the heroine's life is constantly in danger and the romance never seems to get off the ground, 'Hush, Hush' still feels like a completely original novel. I think its Fitzpatrick's talent for language that keeps it from falling into the black hole of YA Fantasy Look-A-Likes.

When I finished reading 'Hush, Hush' I wondered if it would become a series and in keeping with the new young adult trend, it is. I'm not sure how I feel about this, because it seems like most of the Book 1's I've read could have stood alone, but a lot of authors decide to drag the world out into a diluted Xerox of itself until we eventually get bored and stop reading.Its hard to tell if an author is going to keep on churning out best sellers like Melissa Marr or if they're going to eventually spiral into self disillusion and then disappear, like Stephenie Meyer. However, I have high hopes for Becca Fitzpatrick, her ability to produce such an interesting and realistic world along with her talent for words are good indicators that she'll join the ranks of other great long time selling authors.

8 comments:

  1. I really did like this book, but I was thinking that maybe a second book might be a little too much, this really could have been a stand-alone. ♥ Parajunkee

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  2. Para has a point! Glad you enjoyed it :)

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  3. So glad you liked it! It's on the top of my favorite 2009 books. Awesome. But I desagree. I think that a second book would be better... I mean, more romance now, you know? Patch is never enough. I always want more from him. And that's why I'll read 'Hush, Hush' again... Until Crescendo doesn't come out.

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  4. Hey MissJulie, Great post.

    I haven't read this but its on my tbr list (along with fallen). i absolutely love the cover though so hopefully thats a good indication.

    Not talking specifically about this book (obviously haven;t read it) but i agree that there is ALOT of books especially YA, that are being stretched, when they could be brilliant as standalones.

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  5. I too enjoyed this book. Patch is completely delicious.

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  6. I saw this in the bookstore but wasn't sure it was something I'd have time to read. It looks really good though.

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  8. Hey good review, i ordered this boook the other day and am looking forward to reading it, sounds like becca fitzpatrick is a talented auther, cant wait to read it

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