CATCHALL
I absolutely beyond a shadow of doubt adored Shattered Souls. It was intriguing and entertaining, and I was absolutely drawn into the story. I really enjoyed the almost everything about it. There were a few things that really bothered me, but overall, it was wonderful.
THE HEROINE
LENZI ROSE
I definitely loved Lenzi. She was a strong heroine. Unfortunately, she was a bit too stubborn for my taste. However, she does accept who she is in the end, and it is impossible not to admire that about her. She's brave and smart but not reckless. Lenzi also has a strong sense of self identity and confidence that's really nice to see. She's a fantastic character until maybe near the end of the book, where she does this turnabout and made me want to slam my head against something. But she mostly redeemed herself.
THE LOVE INTERESTS
ALDEN THOMAS
Mmm. Alden was an amazing character. He's sweetly old-fashioned in some ways, but modern enough that he doesn't seem outdated or old. It is clear that he's lived before. He is fiercely protective but also knows Lenzi's strength. He'll do anything for her, and that's beautiful. Also, I really love that he's smart, not some empty-headed halfwit. Even though it's kind of pathetic, it is also really sweet and hard not to admire.
ZAK
Zak was an alright character. I like him except for the fact that he always calls Lenzi "babe." Now, let's get something straight. I have no problem with this word's usage. I have been called that in my time, and used it also. But I just don't like how he never says her name. Ever. It bothers me. And I thought that what Lindsey chose to do with him at the end of the book was too convenient and also unnecessary.
THE PLOT
The plot was entertaining, delightful, and original. It followed a clear story line. Even though I'm not really a fan of reincarnation in general, this one worked for me. We're gifted with flashbacks, which admittedly helps. I don't feel like I'm supposed to know something that isn't there.
There's a little bit a mystery too, which I also really like. It keeps the story interesting. The mystery was refreshing, although fairly obvious. It seemed unlikely that it would have taken so long to figure out, and almost seems as if it was put in just to make Lenzi seem smarter, which it probably was.
It was definitely interesting, though, and was also thoroughly enjoyable. Overall, the plot was brilliant and I loved it.
THE ROMANCE
There is a love triangle, although it is obvious from the beginning how it is going to end. The romance between Lenzi and Zak is a bit questionable because it seems a little abusive, but we don't get to see really how it was before Alden showed up, so it's hard to say too much on that front. The romance between Lenzi and Alden is very sweet. It could have been instalovey, but the flashbacks and the stories told really help. It could have been much worse than it was.
THE WRITING
Lindsey has a lovely hand. It isn't perfect, but I shall cut my usual debut-novel-slack. The writing is lush and descriptive. There are points when Lenzi sounds like an annoying teenage girl and I kind of wanted to slap her for being so whiny, but it could have been far, far worse. The flashbacks especially are gorgeously described so vividly that I can easily picture them.
THE ENDING
I'll be honest; this actually was not my favorite. Honestly, I just didn't think it was very well thought out. Lenzi gets annoying until about the last two pages or so, and Zak gets--well, Zak does not get very lucky. Everything seemed to fall into place just suspiciously a bit too nicely. Also, there was one particular part that was almost laughable. Still, I suppose the ending wasn't horrible. It simply wasn't spectacular. And I did really like the last few paragraphs, which are sweet and satisfy my ridiculously romantic little heart.
WRAPUP
I hear rumors of a second book in the works, and if this is true, I'll be reading it. While I was satisfied with this book as a standalone, I am interested in hearing more. The concept is very interesting and I do like the characters and the writing style. While I wasn't expecting to hear more, it is a pleasant surprise and I am pleased by this new development.
FINE.