Crystallum by Laney McMann Pre-Release Book Review
Kadence Sparrow wasn't born a devil's child—she was turned into one. Now, she's hiding from the truth, and running for her life. For years, Kade's true nature has lurked behind an illusion, so when her dad gets another job transfer, she knows the drill: no close friends, no boyfriends, and most importantly: don't expose what she is. Ever. Keeping secrets is easy. Lies are second nature. So is the loneliness—and the fear, but when the Shadows attack, and Kade meets Cole Spires, she could expose everything she's trying to hide. As one of the Celestial Children, Cole lives by an oath: defend the Ward, protect the Primordial race, guard the gateways, and stick to his own. Everything else is a distraction, and besides, he’s lost enough. Cole's job is clear, and no one his age does it better. So, when he meets Kade in a club downtown, he assumes she just wants his attention. Most girls do, but Cole soon realizes ... Kade isn't like most girls. The children of heaven and hell are living among us, fighting an age-old war. And falling for someone from the opposition is not an option. But a chance encounter between Kade and Cole will blur the rules, as Kade's journey to keep her truth hidden catapults them together and into a web of lies, forcing her to not only face the demon inside her, but to answer the hardest question of all. Which is thicker—blood or water?
*I recieved an early copy of Crystallum by Laney McMann through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*
Mark your calendars because on November 30 this year Crystallum will be available for purchase. This gem of a book is nothing like I had expected it to be when I first started reading it two and a half weeks ago. I am aware that finishing a book in 17 days is a long stretch of time, but it is most definitely not because the book was bland or poor. In fact, Crystallum is actually one of my favourite reads of 2015, and I completely regret taking so long to get into it. I swear though, once I got past the first couple of chapters that introduced the premise of the book, I could not put it down.
Crystallum is heavily based on a scenery that is unique to it. Although it is set in a modern day town, there are many fantasy aspects provided throughout the novel. The main character, Kadence, is a devil's child, which is one of many new creatures discussed. The supporting main species are primori and primeva, which are positive and negative energy balancers. Cole Spires, the mysterious guy whom Kade meets at the club, is a primori. He is cocky and arrogant at first glance, but as Kade begins to know him she realizes that he is actually really sweet. Both of them are amazingly-written characters whom I immensely adored, accompanying the rest of the wonderful cast of characters in the book. Some of my other favourites include Cole's best friend Danny, and Kade's best friends, Giselle and Lindsey. There is also Jake, the nice guy who is also chasing for Kade's heart, as well as a central mean girl, Tiffany. In summary, every single character in this novel is well-rounded and crucial, as well entertaining for the audience to read about.
In terms of the explanation of the powers of the creatures of this world created by Laney McMann, it was well done. I found it hard to keep up at the beginning, but I eventually caught up and began understanding the powers of the primori and primeva, how they vary, and who are their enemies.
Regarding my thoughts on the romance of this book, I would say that it is simply amazing. Although both Jake and Cole are seemingly fighting for Kade's attention, I am absolutely #TeamCole. I enjoyed every conversation the Cole and Kadence had together, and often found myself yearning for something similar to what they have.
The pacing of the book was consistent; there were almost no dull moments. The plot was thoughtful and thorough, and the characters were made to feel relatable enough that we can all say we know someone similar to each of the characters. Not to mention, there is MASSIVE plot-twist at the end. In conclusion, I would definitely give this book five out five stars. Everyone should pick this up when it's available next week; you won't regret it.