Book Review: Eclipse

(As mentioned before, if you plan to read the Twilight Series, skip over this review as it gives away some key plot points from the previous two books.)

Last night I finished reading Eclipse, the third installment in the Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer, and let me say, I was not let down. The story intensifies in many different aspects, only to leave you waiting for August to roll around (when the fourth and final book is published.)

While a slew of murders occur in nearby Seattle, Bella finds herself woven between various intertwining struggles. With Victoria, the out for revenge crazy vampire, still on the lose, Edward keeps a close watch as Bella tries to maintain a normal life and graduate. In the middle of it all, she battles internally as she must chose between her love for Edward and friendship with Jacob. And as graduation nears, she has to chose for her self--to become a vampire or not. The answer, mixed with the nearby killings, could reignite the eternal war between vampire and werewolf.

Although still not as good as Twilight, Eclipse is a terrific third book in the series. You learn the back stories of various characters, as well as the reason behind the ongoing war between vampire and werewolf--one that Bella finds herself precariously placed in. All characters learn about self sacrifice and compromise--and how both and find themselves prominently placed in all types of relationships.

The tenderness between Edward and Bella is enviable and wonderful. It's a story book romance that you hope nothing will stop. And although Jacob is annoying throughout most of the book (personal opinion, of course), he means well. He knows that he has to to everything to show Bella how he feels--regardless of the outcome. And for that, I respect him. Even if I don't like him.

The ending is suspenseful as the murders from Seattle come close to home. And as Edward once again puts himself in risk to save Bella, she has to decide how far she'll go for him.

I liked how the book shows that every choice has consequences, good and bad. I liked that they keep driving through the ideas of family and virtue. And, most of all, I like how Edward convinces Bella to do something that's absolutely adorable.

I enjoyed the third book immensely and now eagerly await for August. In the meantime, though, I have some outtakes to read.