New Moon by Stephenie Meyer

This book is part two of the Twilight saga. It is exactly the sequel that I expected. After reading Twilight, I knew the romantic couple (Bella and Edward) would have a big argument and break up or almost break up. That is just the social convention of the times or a very popular theme in movies and books. Lo and behold, Their relationship hits the rocks. Edward disappears and Bella falls into the arms of the hunky Jacob. They bond closely and Bella's love for Edward is put to the test.

Unfortunately, it is very evident from the beginning of the book that Bella and Edward will get back together. First of all, Bella doesn't think of Jacob as more than a friend, and there is nothing to suggest her opinion will change. Second, Bella and Edward had some very strong feelings towards one another. She can't just forget him easily and get a new boyfriend in a couple weeks or even a couple months. I didn't think Bella and Jacob ever had a chance of a relationship, although it seemed like Meyer was trying to make us believe that. Maybe I'm just overly critical.

Long story short, Bella and Edward reunite and confess their true emotions for one another. Bella and Edward are a modern day Romeo & Juliet, without the death and Romeo is a vampire. I also noticed a pattern after reading these books, where Meyer sets up a big fight at the end and the good guys win, as if that was ever in question. This is definitely not my favorite book in the series because of its predictability and because most of the book focuses on Bella and Jacob, and I didn't think they made a good couple anyway. I was just constantly waiting for Edward to return, like I knew he would.

Meyer makes a few things clear to the reader. First, the main characters Bella and Edward are never going to be in any real danger, they will always overcome any trouble and never die. Second, Bella will become a vampire like her boyfriend, eventually. I can understand this, but I was hoping she could make the series a little more thrilling. I have to give her credit for one thing, and that is painting a picture with her words. Meyer somehow hooks me into her novels every time, despite everything I don't like about the books. I have to give her props for that.