I was born and raised only minutes away from the chocolately scent of Cadbury World in Birmingham, England. So it will probably come as no surprise that when I’m not dreaming in Vampires & Angels, I dream in chocolate! For the past ten years I have lived in West London with my hubby and two dogs, Alfie – the Pug & Goose – the Chihuahua.
Lailah by Nikki Kelly
My rating: 2.5of 5 stars
Lailah by Nikki Kelly is the first in a paranormal YA fantasy and it was an interesting introduction to the world that Kelly has created as well as the characters. I have to admit, this story didn’t win me over and I felt like I was just reading about Lailah running and fainting all the time but I also have to admit, I am curious to see where Kelly will take this series.
Lailah doesn’t really know anything about herself (including her name – she actually goes by the name Francesca early on) but she does know she is different. She has been drifting through life trying to stay separate from people because she knows after a while they will notice that she doesn’t age. The other thing she can recall is a face and name…Gabriel. She dreams of him often and has no idea why.
On her way home from work, things change drastically for Lailah. She comes across an injured boy (Jonah) and decides to help him even though she knows something isn’t right about him. In her efforts to help him out, she realizes quickly he is a vampire and in some serious trouble. When Jonah’s friends finally show up, we find out that Gabriel isn’t just a dream…he just happens to be an angel.
If you dig deep, you will find an interesting story – good vs. evil and Lailah’s heritage plays a huge role. I liked it but there were parts I found frustrating. It drove me crazy that Lailah was so jealous all the time and then would string Jonah around to make Gabriel react. I also wanted more of the good vs. evil stuff instead of all the relationshippy stuff. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a fan of the swoony stuff but I wanted a better understanding of who Lailah was and why everyone wanted a piece of her. Also…why is everyone always so perfect and gorgeous?
Yes, there is a love triangle here and who the heck knows where Kelly will go with this. I also have no idea where the next book will take the reader in regard to Lailah’s heritage and her relationships with those around her. That may be why I find myself adding the next book onto my to read shelf but I’m not absolutely certain what side of the fence I am on with this book. If you enjoy Twilight and books with a similar storyline, you might also enjoy this one.
Thank you to Macmillan for the review copy.
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