Book: Hallowed (Unearthly #2) by Cynthia Hand, HarperTeen, January 17 2012
Genre/Format: Young Adult Paranormal, Own Hardcover, 403 pages
Rating: 5 / 5 Stars
I am a big fan of Unearthly, and was so excited to finally have the sequel in my hands. The characters, romance, dialogue, and angel mystique of Unearthly made it an instant favorite. I couldn’t wait to read the follow up, and quickly tore through Hallowed in a day. Hallowed takes the series in new, unexpected, and exciting directions while it wears it’s heart on it’s sleeve, and I was not disappointed.
Hallowed picks up where Unearthly leaves off, as Clara deals with the repercussions of how she handled her angel purpose. Now, a new purpose-like dream materializes that has her worried about someone close to her. As Clara’s focus is pulled into the angel world, where does that leave her relationship with Tucker? And when tensions heat up with the Black Wings, Clara finds herself right in the middle of the conflict.
This is a more melancholic book than Unearthly. Clara has a lot of sadness around her that weighs her down, not least of which is the awareness that she is about to lose a loved one. She has angel growing pains as she learns more about her powers and how much others are relying on her. She is learning more about her purpose and how her choices make it evolve. There is the question of fate, and how she can choose to accept or ignore the path that she is destined for. So, this is a turning point sort of time for Clara.
Another small problem competing for Clara’s attention is the growing love triangle. Cynthia Hand pokes fun at love triangles in general in the book, and even with a nod to Twilight. It seems that Christian fits perfectly in her life, and the only problem is that her heart belongs to Tucker. I found myself tugged in both directions in regards to the love triangle, and I’m not sure it’s over, no matter how things left off.
In addition to the angel revelations and matters of the heart, I was also really interested in the character relationships. In particular, Clara’s brother Jeffrey, and friend Angela have me very intrigued. I was glad to see Jeffrey with a meatier role in this installment, but it left me wanting even more answers. New characters and surprise appearances in the book also provided some of the back-story I craved.
Hallowed is a very worthy follow up to Unearthly, and an emotional, heart wrenching read. The series is well written and addictive, and even has a sense of humor that can win over paranormal weary readers. I can’t wait to find out what’s in store in the next installment of the series, due out next year.
Other Reviews of the book:
Great review. I totally giggled at the Twilight stalking reference. This is a great love triangle. I am hopelessly biased, but the maturity that all 3 apply to situation is refreshing and sad that it isn’t easy to just follow your heart. Thanks for the link love ;D
I am reading Unearhtly now, thanks to your advice. Loving it so far. I have a feeling I will be reading Hallowed right after.
Great review! I cannot wait to get to read this. I was surprised how much I loved Unearthly and especially Tucker!
I just bought this one today and I can’t wait to read it. I adored Unearthly and I’m really excited to see what happens next in Hallowed. Great review!
I agree, I was very curious about Jeffrey, and still am. Glad you liked it as well. =)
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