Living Violet

Author: Jaime Reed
Publisher: Kensington Books
Released: January 2012
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Series: The Cambion Chronicles (Burning Emerald: May 2012, Fading Amber: 2013)
Author's Website: http://www.jaimereedbooks.com/
Source: Publisher
Challenge: Debut Author 2012, Supernatural Romance
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Samara Marshall is determined to make the summer before her senior year the best ever. Her plan: enjoy downtime with friends and work to save up cash for her dream car. Summer romance is not on her to-do list, but uncovering the truth about her flirtatious co-worker, Caleb Baker, is. From the peculiar glow to his eyes to the unfortunate events that befall the girls who pine after him, Samara is the only one to sense danger behind his smile. 

But Caleb's secrets are drawing Samara into a world where the laws of attraction are a means of survival. And as a sinister power closes in on those she loves, Samara must take a risk that will change her life forever. . .or consume it.

The premise of this book is interesting, and it plays out nicely. Although we never really find out why Samara is immune to Caleb's charm and attraction, she vacillates between trusting and being completely suspicious of him very convincingly. I like the added detail of Samara being biracial and the way it subtly plays into the main plot and ties in.

The whole cast of characters is very interesting, and I like how each one has his/her own distinct personality. I loved Samara's tone right from the start, and as each character entered, their tones matched their personalities perfectly. I especially like how the book doesn't explore only Samara and Caleb's romantic relationship, but also friendship and a very different kind of romantic relationship with Mia and Dougie.

I really like the way the book ends - that twist came from nowhere, and the way Samara deals with it is great. And the sample chapter from Burning Emerald made me curious to see how the romance will progress based on this new twist!