Helpful Score: 69
I picked up this book when I was caught at the local mall for a few hours with nothing to read. Having read/heard a lot of hype about this series I decided to give the first book a shot. While not a huge disappointment, I was not as enamored of the story as many other people seem to be.
Set in the Pacific Northwest, Twilight is the story of Bella Swan, who has relocated to the very small town of Forks to live with her father after her mother remarries a younger man and moves to Florida. Coming from the hot and sunny big city of Phoenix, Forks is quite an adjustment for Bella. She becomes mildly obsessed with the Cullen family, a seemingly picture perfect family of overwhelming beauty and all just a little aloof. When Bella finds Edward Cullen is in her biology class, and seems to have taken an intense dislike to her she is bewildered by his behavior. After Edward seems to have a change of mind about her Bella becomes involved with him not knowing what the secret is that he and his family are hiding; not realizing that it is more terrifying than she could imagine.
I found this book an easy read, but rather simplistic. There was not a great deal of character development, especially of Bella, who seemed to be defined only by her feelings for Edward; which seemed to be expressed by more synonyms for the word beautiful than I have ever read before. Most of the other characters were also fairly one dimensional. Once Edward's secret is revealed his characterization seems a bit more developed, but the romance just didn't ring true for me; frankly I couldn't figure out what Edward found so attractive in Bella. I tend to doubt I will read any other books in the series, but I never say never.
Set in the Pacific Northwest, Twilight is the story of Bella Swan, who has relocated to the very small town of Forks to live with her father after her mother remarries a younger man and moves to Florida. Coming from the hot and sunny big city of Phoenix, Forks is quite an adjustment for Bella. She becomes mildly obsessed with the Cullen family, a seemingly picture perfect family of overwhelming beauty and all just a little aloof. When Bella finds Edward Cullen is in her biology class, and seems to have taken an intense dislike to her she is bewildered by his behavior. After Edward seems to have a change of mind about her Bella becomes involved with him not knowing what the secret is that he and his family are hiding; not realizing that it is more terrifying than she could imagine.
I found this book an easy read, but rather simplistic. There was not a great deal of character development, especially of Bella, who seemed to be defined only by her feelings for Edward; which seemed to be expressed by more synonyms for the word beautiful than I have ever read before. Most of the other characters were also fairly one dimensional. Once Edward's secret is revealed his characterization seems a bit more developed, but the romance just didn't ring true for me; frankly I couldn't figure out what Edward found so attractive in Bella. I tend to doubt I will read any other books in the series, but I never say never.
Helpful Score: 33
This book is pure, decadent cheese. It is brain candy for the middle school girl in all of us. My book club read it and they all scoffed, but I ate it up. I read the first two in days and pre-ordered the third one at 3 in the morning when I finished the second.
Helpful Score: 26
I was totally surprised by all the negative reviews of this book/series. I found the first book at a garage sale and after seeing the previews for the movie decided it was time to read book one 'Twilight'. This books is listed as a teen read so I was pleasantly surprised to find myself engrossed in the story. After finishing this book quickly-because I LOVED it I had to rush right down to WalMart and buy the second book 'New Moon'. While reading book two I went to eBay and bought the other two. I LOVED the whole series and rate it right up there with the Harry Potter series (which was also written for teens.) I am a senior citizen and I still loved the story. I found it totally believeable with not only the love story but the intense dangerous situations the main characters encounter. After reading this series I then bought Stephenie Meyers latest book 'Host'. I HIGHLY recommend this author and especially the Twilight series to women of ALL ages. I give this series two thumbs up!
Helpful Score: 22
Fun for grownups too. As a fan of Anne Rice, I had a real curiosity about this series as it's popularity grew. I thought I'd give Twilight a try even though it has been labeled as a "teen novel". The novel is a lightning fast read and puts you into the headspace of a 17 year old girl very well. I can see why it's popular with the teen set. It stirred up some memories for me of what that first real infatuation feels like as a teenager - so what if the heartthrob happens to be a vampire? Unlike Rice's Lestat, Edward is a vampire with highly evoloved feeding ethics living with a coven vampires who are like-minded, making for an interesting twist. The ending was a tad melodramatic for me, but that was the only reminder I had of who the author's intended audience is. I've just gotten New Moon and am looking forward to seeing how the relationship between Bella and Edward evolves... I'm not a real fan of the whole Vampire subgenre of romance novels, so I am hoping that Meyer is clever enough to keep the spark between the characters without resorting to cliches.
Helpful Score: 19
I loved this book. i thought it would be just a , blah...yeah-it-kept-me-entertained book but i fell in love with it. it really made me feel like a highschooler again, madly in love.
im surprised at all the bad reviews about the characters and the plot. yes the romance and relationship is completely unrealistic, but that is the MAGIC of it! magic doesnt go by our rules or how we think things are supposed to happen. thats the point!
although i must admit, i would not encourage this book for IMPRESSIONABLE young girls.
all in all, a captivating book.
im surprised at all the bad reviews about the characters and the plot. yes the romance and relationship is completely unrealistic, but that is the MAGIC of it! magic doesnt go by our rules or how we think things are supposed to happen. thats the point!
although i must admit, i would not encourage this book for IMPRESSIONABLE young girls.
all in all, a captivating book.
Helpful Score: 18
First of all I didn't really want to read this book but I work at a used bookstore and we are asked for this every day. My boss and I thought it would be a good idea to read this to see what it was about and if parents asked us about it we could inform them properly. So my boss and I tossed a coin and I lost.
It only took my two days to read this book, not because it was that intersting that I became engrossed but because I would skim the pages. After reading the first few chapters it was evident to me that Bella would always complain and be in trouble and Edward the vampire would always save her. Knowing that I really didn't need to read every line. Also I didn't see any depth with these characters in her book to me they were very flat. The book was very predictable and by the end of the story I didn't see the point of reading the other three books. In my opinion Myers could have just wrote the one book and it would tell the story of Edward and Bella. One last note the leading lady Bella isn't a very strong role model for young girls; she is whinny, complains too much, builds her happiness around everyone else and depends on too many people to save her. I am honestly convinced she can't make a decision about anything with out consulting everyone she knows.
It only took my two days to read this book, not because it was that intersting that I became engrossed but because I would skim the pages. After reading the first few chapters it was evident to me that Bella would always complain and be in trouble and Edward the vampire would always save her. Knowing that I really didn't need to read every line. Also I didn't see any depth with these characters in her book to me they were very flat. The book was very predictable and by the end of the story I didn't see the point of reading the other three books. In my opinion Myers could have just wrote the one book and it would tell the story of Edward and Bella. One last note the leading lady Bella isn't a very strong role model for young girls; she is whinny, complains too much, builds her happiness around everyone else and depends on too many people to save her. I am honestly convinced she can't make a decision about anything with out consulting everyone she knows.
Helpful Score: 14
I NEVER read this type of stuff--I really don't! But for some stupid reason I started with "Twilight" and didn't stop until I reached the end of the series. I agree with the PBS reviews that Bella is a horribly bad teen role model. And I liked Jake more than Edward. This ain't great literature, folks--BUT--it's enjoyable in the way that those horrible Lifetime Channel movies are. You know they're a piece of crap, but you have to watch until the end anyway... But if you want an adult vampire saga, watch "True Blood" on HBO. It'll make you want to have a hot vampire of your very own!
Helpful Score: 13
My husband suggested this series to me knowing I liked vampires. I picked it up on a Monjday night around 6pm and finished it Tuesday morning at 3am! I did not put it down. Then I rushed right out and bought the entire saga! I have read each book in a day!
Helpful Score: 12
Past all the hype with this series, you'll find something not quite fleshed out. It suffers from a Mary Sue type main character (meaning a stereotypical, un-fleshed character that the reader can easily envision their self in), and the writing in general is not all that. But Meyer does manage to put a neat little twist to the world of vampies, and Edward is THE perfect man for any woman, and that is the main reason this series is doing so well. It's a fun read if you can get over how simple and stereotypical of a "romance novel" it is. Just don't expect a fantastic example of literature.
Helpful Score: 11
this is the most overrated book. not only is there no character development, but for a book that's supposed to be marketed to teens it sets a horrible example for healthy relationships. fall madly in lust and want to give up your life for someone...ummm no thanks. while stephenie meyers is good at setting a scene and mood (much too descriptive if you ask me), her character development is nonexistent. the entire book (and the entire series save for a chapter or two in the last book of the series)is written in first person from bella's point of view. you get no sense of any of the other characters (quite a few) that she introduces and frankly they seem much more interesting than the whiny and weak bella. Parents beware: this is not a book i would recommend letting impressionable young girls read.
Helpful Score: 11
I've heard many good things about this book, but I wasn't sure if it would live up to the expectations. It took me about halfway to really get into it, but once I did, I couldn't put it down. It might not be the best book I've read this year, but it was definitely very enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
Helpful Score: 9
This is a great book. I have read the whole Saga and find it to be very interesting. Most teen age girls would love this book. It is not your normal vampire/teen book. There is no sexual content. The girl in it is an average girl that does not find her self at all pretty. I would suggest this book to anyone. (And yes it does start off slow...that is the only complaint I have heard about the book)
Helpful Score: 9
Even though it is classified as a Young Adult book, I found it really enjoyable. And the romantic scenes are harmless, I would easily give it to my 12 yo to read as well.
Helpful Score: 9
I can't believe how much I enjoyed this book. It was recommended to me, so I decided to give it a try, not really thinking I would like it. It caught me almost right away and I hated having to put it down. I am looking forward to getting the rest of the series. I haven't seen the movie so I can't compare it to that. If you haven't read this book, I highly recommend it. There are different genres all mixed in. It has the vampire part of the story, but not too much into the mythology and legends of the blood suckers. A different look at vampires. It also has a young, teen romance, but no where near too much focus on the lovey dovey thing.
This book definitely lived up to it's good reviews. I had a hard time putting it down. I really like Bella and relate to her being a klutz and feeling on the "outside" of things. Can't wait so I've have ordered the sequels via the new order process.
Helpful Score: 8
Loved this book and couldn't put it down. Searched for the second in the series in remote bookstores on my vacation because I couldn't get enough and wanted to keep reading about Bella and her adventures. Don't let the size scare you - I will be suggesting it for my next bookclub pick.
Helpful Score: 8
The book is read by Ilyana Kadushin, who has a very nice voice. I read the book a couple of times before I bought the audio CD and the way she read the book was entirely different from how I understood the book. There's something off about the way she reads it, like she is off on her comedic timing and hasn't quite mastered the art of sarcasm. That's the best way I can explain it.
Another thing that bothers me is the way she mispronounces "Quileute" in the first half of the book. Somewhere towards the end, she corrects it.
It is still a good story, but doesn't even begin to reach the quality I've enjoyed with Jim Dale and Harry Potter.
Another thing that bothers me is the way she mispronounces "Quileute" in the first half of the book. Somewhere towards the end, she corrects it.
It is still a good story, but doesn't even begin to reach the quality I've enjoyed with Jim Dale and Harry Potter.
Helpful Score: 7
I thought this was an amazing book, even if the plot of new-girl-in-town falls in love with the loner vampire is slightly over used. Wonderfully detailed descriptions and new takes on the cliche subject make this book 100% worthwhile.
Once I opened the cover I was captivated, I read this whole book in one night.
Once I opened the cover I was captivated, I read this whole book in one night.
Helpful Score: 7
After hearing rave reviews about this series from a Mommy friend of mine, I decided to give it a try. Up until pretty much the end of the book, I found the whole thing unrealistic (aside from the vampire part) and slow. The main character is so far from acting like a typical teenager that it's bizarre. I had to force myself to finish the book, and have no desire to see what happens in the future with these characters. I read that this is going to be a movie, and maybe it will be a little more lively and vibrant on the screen, but unless you just adore vampire novels, you might want to check out something else.
Helpful Score: 6
I AM a teenager and these books, although entertaining, are really not written well. I was fine with them when they first came out and I was like "hmm, ok, vampires. That's great. I love vampires." Once every one started reading them and taking them as GOOD lit. I started to cry. In all honesty - Entertaining=Yes - Well Writen=NO!
I know they are written for teens but I was 17 when I first read them and I could not believe that they were geared for my age. She\her editors must not have very much faith in the inteligence of teens. they really should be geared for pre teens rather than 10-12th graders.
Like I said, please don't get a mob after me, they are entertaining when I want mindless reading. That's all.
I know they are written for teens but I was 17 when I first read them and I could not believe that they were geared for my age. She\her editors must not have very much faith in the inteligence of teens. they really should be geared for pre teens rather than 10-12th graders.
Like I said, please don't get a mob after me, they are entertaining when I want mindless reading. That's all.
Helpful Score: 6
I love love stories, I love vampire stories, and I love books with adventure - this book has all of these components. Once I started reading this, I could not put it down and read it in a couple of days. I loved the story so much that I went out and bought the second book the same night that I finished this one!
Helpful Score: 6
I love love stories, and I love vampire stories - this has both. It grabs you from the beginning. I just could not put it down. I was so captivated by the story that when I was done with this, I ran out to the bookstore to get the sequel!
Helpful Score: 6
1st book the series - awesome! I loved reading a paranormal romance without all the explicit (and often un-necessary) sex. I could not stop reading. I have read the 2nd book New Moon and am waiting for the 3rd book this fall (Eclipse) & intend to buy it the moment it is released. 5 stars ***** My fave series!!!
Helpful Score: 6
Since I'm generally a fan of vampire novels, and wanted to see what all the buzz was about, I decided to read 'Twilight.' I won't be reading any of the others in the series. This book is not just dull, but offensively dull.
The whole 'vampires in high school' theme was done very well by Buffy (the TV show). Buffy was exciting, clever, and portrayed believable interactions between teenagers with a good mix of action and humor. 'Twilight' takes the whole cute-boy-in-school-is-a-
vampire thing, and does it with hardly any action and no humor whatsoever - the whole thing is deadly, roll-your-eyes earnest. It's a romance, not a horror novel - but I was never convinced by either of the characters' feelings. I can very much enjoy love stories - but again, it's a romance, not a love story. It's also a romance with no sex whatsoever, not even implied. Now that's fine, if not very believable, when we're talking about a bunch of high school seniors. But my problem with the book is really the way in which Meyer uses vampirism as a metaphor for sex. Vampirism is, of course, pretty much always a metaphor for sex. But here, we have a 'vegetarian' vampire (he avoids feeding from people, hunting bears instead), who is attracted to a young woman pretty much only because of her scent. He is so attracted to her, he can barely keep himself from ravishing her. Since he wants to be 'good,' he refrains from ravishing her, even though she wants him to. On her part, she seems to be attracted to him pretty much because he's good-looking and dangerous. (Ah, the allure of the 'bad-boy'). The two don't seem to have anything in common, and compared to him, she is a completely powerless partner, passive except for continually putting herself in the way of danger, with what seems to be a deathwish. When a villain FINALLY shows up, 3/4 of the way through the book, he's one of those guys (uh, vampires) who doesn't really care about a girl at all, they just want to ravish her and leave (her dead). The very clear message running through all this is that Most Guys don't care about you and only want One Thing. Occasionally there might be a guy who does care about you, and can refrain from "taking" That One Thing, but Watch Out, because even the nicest guy (vampire) really does want That One Thing, which is just a step into untold disaster and could end up with You Dead. Personally, I feel this is a really terribly inaccurate and unhealthy (not to mention un-feminist) way of viewing relationships, yes, even teen relationships. Considering this, I'm finding the current popularity of the book (and movie) rather disturbing.
The whole 'vampires in high school' theme was done very well by Buffy (the TV show). Buffy was exciting, clever, and portrayed believable interactions between teenagers with a good mix of action and humor. 'Twilight' takes the whole cute-boy-in-school-is-a-
vampire thing, and does it with hardly any action and no humor whatsoever - the whole thing is deadly, roll-your-eyes earnest. It's a romance, not a horror novel - but I was never convinced by either of the characters' feelings. I can very much enjoy love stories - but again, it's a romance, not a love story. It's also a romance with no sex whatsoever, not even implied. Now that's fine, if not very believable, when we're talking about a bunch of high school seniors. But my problem with the book is really the way in which Meyer uses vampirism as a metaphor for sex. Vampirism is, of course, pretty much always a metaphor for sex. But here, we have a 'vegetarian' vampire (he avoids feeding from people, hunting bears instead), who is attracted to a young woman pretty much only because of her scent. He is so attracted to her, he can barely keep himself from ravishing her. Since he wants to be 'good,' he refrains from ravishing her, even though she wants him to. On her part, she seems to be attracted to him pretty much because he's good-looking and dangerous. (Ah, the allure of the 'bad-boy'). The two don't seem to have anything in common, and compared to him, she is a completely powerless partner, passive except for continually putting herself in the way of danger, with what seems to be a deathwish. When a villain FINALLY shows up, 3/4 of the way through the book, he's one of those guys (uh, vampires) who doesn't really care about a girl at all, they just want to ravish her and leave (her dead). The very clear message running through all this is that Most Guys don't care about you and only want One Thing. Occasionally there might be a guy who does care about you, and can refrain from "taking" That One Thing, but Watch Out, because even the nicest guy (vampire) really does want That One Thing, which is just a step into untold disaster and could end up with You Dead. Personally, I feel this is a really terribly inaccurate and unhealthy (not to mention un-feminist) way of viewing relationships, yes, even teen relationships. Considering this, I'm finding the current popularity of the book (and movie) rather disturbing.
Helpful Score: 5
I, unlike the rest of the world, do not like twilight.
Here's the thing, I like REAL romance. The whole entire relationship between Bella and Edward was very fake for me and obsessive. I just could not get into it. The whole series of emotions were so compulsive and obsessive it wasn't love. Usually even in romance novels there is some type of plot going on besides the "love factor". There wasn't any real plot. Some are Team Edward, some Team Jacob...I'm Team Guy-Who-Almost-Ran-Over-Bella. He had brains.
Here's the thing, I like REAL romance. The whole entire relationship between Bella and Edward was very fake for me and obsessive. I just could not get into it. The whole series of emotions were so compulsive and obsessive it wasn't love. Usually even in romance novels there is some type of plot going on besides the "love factor". There wasn't any real plot. Some are Team Edward, some Team Jacob...I'm Team Guy-Who-Almost-Ran-Over-Bella. He had brains.
Helpful Score: 5
I am reading this book again, for the third time, this time with my 10 year old daughter who got interested after reading the movie. My eldest daughter recommended this book to me when it first came out and I was hooked! I had to read it a second time while waiting for the second book to come out. lol!
My ten year old is barely halfway through the book and she is already saying that the book is way better than the movie. She's reading about details that weren't in the movie.
My ten year old is barely halfway through the book and she is already saying that the book is way better than the movie. She's reading about details that weren't in the movie.
Helpful Score: 5
I was definately surprised at how much I loved this book. Written for Teens but a book that will capture the attention of adults too. I loved the relationship between the main characters. Forbidden Love w/on the edge of your seat suspense!
Helpful Score: 5
Shy, mature, intelligent teen Bella Swan moves to Forks with her dad. She doesn't seem to fit in with anyone her own age, and is drawn to mysterious Edward Cullen. Long story short, vampire boy falls in love with human girl. Adding in the "no sex until marriage" message, one would think this is the perfect book for pre-teen girls. One would be horribly wrong.
Among the "sweet" thing Edward Cullen does is sneak into Bella's bedroom at night to watch her sleep and take the engine out of her car so she can't see her friend. I've had people tell me this is the standard for what all relationships should be. This is stalking and borderline emotional abuse, period.
The writing is mediocre and slow-paced. Bella comes off as arrogant. She often mentions how intelligent she is, but beyond quoting "Romeo and Juliet" every chance possible (A story about young lovers who commit suicide to be together- more great role models), she never shows her intelligence.
I love vampire novels. This is not a vampire novel. Please, do not teach your daughter, sister, cousin, or any other young female in your life that this is something to aspire to. Bella tries to kill herself over this boy- this is not a message you want to spread!
Among the "sweet" thing Edward Cullen does is sneak into Bella's bedroom at night to watch her sleep and take the engine out of her car so she can't see her friend. I've had people tell me this is the standard for what all relationships should be. This is stalking and borderline emotional abuse, period.
The writing is mediocre and slow-paced. Bella comes off as arrogant. She often mentions how intelligent she is, but beyond quoting "Romeo and Juliet" every chance possible (A story about young lovers who commit suicide to be together- more great role models), she never shows her intelligence.
I love vampire novels. This is not a vampire novel. Please, do not teach your daughter, sister, cousin, or any other young female in your life that this is something to aspire to. Bella tries to kill herself over this boy- this is not a message you want to spread!
Helpful Score: 5
I ready this book shortly after it was first released because I love paranormal/fantasy stories and I was looking for a lighter, quicker read. I honestly do not understand all the hype that has built around this books/series since then.
The writing is lazy. The editing is lax. And the characters are either under developed or off putting. I'm sure there's an emo-wreck of a middle schooler burried inside everyone, but the level to which it is indulged in this book is excessive and the relationship between Bella and Edward reads more as creepy, controling, and obsessive to me than sweet.
Read the book. Enjoy it. I've certainly read worse. But please, please don't tell me that you think Bella is a good roll model for (pre)teen girls.
The writing is lazy. The editing is lax. And the characters are either under developed or off putting. I'm sure there's an emo-wreck of a middle schooler burried inside everyone, but the level to which it is indulged in this book is excessive and the relationship between Bella and Edward reads more as creepy, controling, and obsessive to me than sweet.
Read the book. Enjoy it. I've certainly read worse. But please, please don't tell me that you think Bella is a good roll model for (pre)teen girls.
Helpful Score: 4
I've heard many good things about this book, but I wasn't sure if it would live up to the expectations. It took me about halfway to really get into it, but once I did, I couldn't put it down. It might not be the best book I've read this year, but it was definitely very enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
Helpful Score: 4
I grabbed this book on a whim and a nudge from my nearly grown daughter who knows I love a good vampire story. I read this book in less than 24 hours. I could not put it down. I immediately went out and bought book two and will definitely read 3 and 4.
I think this series is great, especially for the teen reader. There is romance, yes, but there is no explicit sex as in some other series, which makes it a great read for all ages.
I think this series is great, especially for the teen reader. There is romance, yes, but there is no explicit sex as in some other series, which makes it a great read for all ages.
I do not usually like books with a highschool setting, but this was well written and enjoyable. The characters are a little saccharin for my tastes but thats fine, too.
My biggest problem is that I would get engrossed in the story until they would bring up his age. This is a ninety-something year old vampire dating a seventeen year old girl. It would kick me out of the story everytime.
I would have to put it down and come back later until I got the nasty taste out of my mouth from contemplating that.
Their relationship was not a mystery to me. Any ninety year old man would find a pretty seventeen year old girl that was obsessed with him unresistable too. For me that was a real YUCK factor that I couldn't overcome.
My biggest problem is that I would get engrossed in the story until they would bring up his age. This is a ninety-something year old vampire dating a seventeen year old girl. It would kick me out of the story everytime.
I would have to put it down and come back later until I got the nasty taste out of my mouth from contemplating that.
Their relationship was not a mystery to me. Any ninety year old man would find a pretty seventeen year old girl that was obsessed with him unresistable too. For me that was a real YUCK factor that I couldn't overcome.
Helpful Score: 4
Ok, so I never planned on reading this book,(i don't get into the trendy books...well i totally got into the harry potter series but only after all the hype;) ) BUT It was suggested to me on a site and available so i snatched it up :) Well, I got it on a wed. and started to read it that night....(looked at the clock and it was 1:30 am... so I took a short break!) was done with it Thurs. morning. I just couldn't put it down. It was a very interesting book. Now I have to read them all!
There are some parts that are a little boring and repetitive, but just a couple.
If you are looking for a good read, then read this series..... BUT BE WARNED, you may like it :)
There are some parts that are a little boring and repetitive, but just a couple.
If you are looking for a good read, then read this series..... BUT BE WARNED, you may like it :)
Helpful Score: 4
OMG...unless you have a some serious free time don't touch these series of books. Once I started on the first book, I couldn't stop reading till I finished the whole series. As silly as it seems, the Twilight series is highly addictive. I am not one to normally read teen books but these books took over my life for a couple weeks. Don't expect to be blown away by it's literary magnitude but it's a fun ride.
Helpful Score: 4
After all the great reviews, i had better expectations for this book. The characters were not at all developed, there was practically no story line. The entire book revolved around telling us again and again how beautiful, gorgeous, etc one of the characters was. It is a fast, easy read though, if you want some light reading.
if you're looking for a good young adult vampire novel i'd recommend L.J. Smith's "The Vampire Diaries"
if you're looking for a good young adult vampire novel i'd recommend L.J. Smith's "The Vampire Diaries"
Helpful Score: 4
I must say I was very dissapointed with this book. It didn't live up to all the hype. I had been putting off reading it for the longest time, but now that the movie is coming out I wanted to read the book before seeing the movie. Now I will be waiting until the movie comes out on pay-per-view if I watch it at all. I know the main character, Bella, is 17 but I wasn't expecting it to be completely juvenile. It reminded me of the 'Sweet Valley High' books I read in junior high, only with vampires and werewolves. Maybe if I was a tween instead of an adult, it would have appealed to me more. But it seemed that tweens and adults alike loved this book, so maybe that made me set my expectations a little too high. And the relationship between Bella and her dad, I couldn't tell if she was his daughter or his housekeeper. Bella and Edward's relationship wasn't intriguing or romantic. It was rather strange and sometimes creepy (him following her and watching her sleep at night). I did force myself to complete the book just to say I read it. Looking back, I'm glad I checked it out from the local library instead of spending money to buy it.
Helpful Score: 4
I finally purchased this book a few days ago after I saw the hype growing surronding this series with the release of the upcoming movie.
I had heard mixed reviews but when into reading this with little or no expectations.
What I came out with it are high expectations for the remainder of the series.
I loved this love story. I found it endearing, sweet and poignant. Yes, I know that Bella & Edward are 17 (well Edward is perpetually 17 but more like 80) and that at that age love is not realistically like that but still I was enraptured with their story.
Maybe because I went into it with low expectations that I managed to put aside all the hype and just focus on getting lost in the book.
Hopefully, I will not be disappointed in the remainder of the series
I had heard mixed reviews but when into reading this with little or no expectations.
What I came out with it are high expectations for the remainder of the series.
I loved this love story. I found it endearing, sweet and poignant. Yes, I know that Bella & Edward are 17 (well Edward is perpetually 17 but more like 80) and that at that age love is not realistically like that but still I was enraptured with their story.
Maybe because I went into it with low expectations that I managed to put aside all the hype and just focus on getting lost in the book.
Hopefully, I will not be disappointed in the remainder of the series
Helpful Score: 4
My cousin told me that I absolutely HAD to read the Twilight series. I bought Twilight and started it one night and I read it all the way through before falling to sleep that night. I could not put it down, the pages flew by... I am now officially obsessed with the series. I was skeptical at first because I never hopped on the Harry Potter bandwagon and it looked like Twilight and Harry Potter went hand in hand everywhere I looked.
It has easily become my fave book of all time. :) After finishing Eclipse (the 3rd book in the series), I actually began re-reading Twilight while waiting for the 4th and final book in the series, Breaking Dawn.
Stephenie Meyer has created LOVEABLE characters that you care about as you read the books. The way she's written the book you can visualize each and every moment like you are there watching it happen.
I could not rave anymore. I've basically told everyone I know they need to read the book and I am counting down the days until book 4 drops on Aug 2nd, and I'm def. looking forward to the movie in Dec.
Anyone who loves vampire novels would LOVE this book, maybe even obsess about it as much as the rest of us Twilighters. ;)
It has easily become my fave book of all time. :) After finishing Eclipse (the 3rd book in the series), I actually began re-reading Twilight while waiting for the 4th and final book in the series, Breaking Dawn.
Stephenie Meyer has created LOVEABLE characters that you care about as you read the books. The way she's written the book you can visualize each and every moment like you are there watching it happen.
I could not rave anymore. I've basically told everyone I know they need to read the book and I am counting down the days until book 4 drops on Aug 2nd, and I'm def. looking forward to the movie in Dec.
Anyone who loves vampire novels would LOVE this book, maybe even obsess about it as much as the rest of us Twilighters. ;)
Helpful Score: 3
LOVED IT! Having the blu-ray to watch in between reading it made the story so much more complete! Staying on my keeper shelf FOREVER.
Helpful Score: 3
The writing in this book is over descriptive, repetitive, and Meyer obviously had a thesaurus on hand to try to mask this.
Through the entire series, I have to admit that Bella is a flat, boring character who never grows, never changes, and never really gets the reader to root for her or cry with her. They just dont care enough.
The misogynistic tone in all these books was appalling, considering this is what the Tweens are reading right now. If this is what Meyer wants the younger generation to think love is really about, Im terrified and wont be surprised when our young marriage and even younger divorce rates skyrocket.
Edward is controlling, he is jealous, he is downright mean to Bella and she still follows him swooning with no real reason other than a primal attraction. She falls in love with him after two weeks and cannot be without him. Then there is the triangle with Jacob who actually treats her well but she doesnt care when Edward is around.
Never is there an option in the series for Bella to just be happy being Bella. It is always assumed that to be happy she must pick Edward or Jacob, neither of which end up being anything resembling the shell of a descent, caring, man.
I could rant for days about the psychology of this book and how awful it is
Yet there was a part of the vamp-lit lover in my the dorked out to it. Granted I skipped pages and pages of writing and still got the jist. I also will forever have an eye-twitch whenever I see the words crooked and smile together.
Im happy to clear space in my bookshelf by getting rid of these books. Hopefully whatever fills the place wont make grey matter drip from my ears.
Through the entire series, I have to admit that Bella is a flat, boring character who never grows, never changes, and never really gets the reader to root for her or cry with her. They just dont care enough.
The misogynistic tone in all these books was appalling, considering this is what the Tweens are reading right now. If this is what Meyer wants the younger generation to think love is really about, Im terrified and wont be surprised when our young marriage and even younger divorce rates skyrocket.
Edward is controlling, he is jealous, he is downright mean to Bella and she still follows him swooning with no real reason other than a primal attraction. She falls in love with him after two weeks and cannot be without him. Then there is the triangle with Jacob who actually treats her well but she doesnt care when Edward is around.
Never is there an option in the series for Bella to just be happy being Bella. It is always assumed that to be happy she must pick Edward or Jacob, neither of which end up being anything resembling the shell of a descent, caring, man.
I could rant for days about the psychology of this book and how awful it is
Yet there was a part of the vamp-lit lover in my the dorked out to it. Granted I skipped pages and pages of writing and still got the jist. I also will forever have an eye-twitch whenever I see the words crooked and smile together.
Im happy to clear space in my bookshelf by getting rid of these books. Hopefully whatever fills the place wont make grey matter drip from my ears.
Helpful Score: 3
Ok, so i finally broke down and decided to join the bandwagon, for two major reasons...i wanted to see what the hype was all about and a friend of mine told me his wife was a huge fan of the series. I have never been drawn to paranormal romance, though...When the movie was set to come out, i decided to just go for it. I purchased the boxed set at a great deal on walmart.com.
I am in my mid-thirties and was reluctant, as many were due to the "young adult" genre. As it is definately written for that age group, it was thoroughly enjoyable and intriguing. And, yes...i LOVE Edward Cullen. Outside of being a blood-sucking immortal, he is the epitome of what any girl/woman would want in a man. (hahaha) Meyer truly puts you "in the book" with the excellent dialogue and settings. She put me right into the mind and heart of a smart, unique, crush driven teen. She really gets you attached to the characters (mainly Bella and Edward, even all the Cullens).
It's a great tale of love, lust, surrender, and belief. I would recommend it to anyone that feels compelled to read this series. I both can't wait and DREAD to finsih the series, so I have set a goal to read a "non-saga" book or two in between each so that i can build up my "thrist" for another dose....I will however, be rushing out to catch the movie!
I am in my mid-thirties and was reluctant, as many were due to the "young adult" genre. As it is definately written for that age group, it was thoroughly enjoyable and intriguing. And, yes...i LOVE Edward Cullen. Outside of being a blood-sucking immortal, he is the epitome of what any girl/woman would want in a man. (hahaha) Meyer truly puts you "in the book" with the excellent dialogue and settings. She put me right into the mind and heart of a smart, unique, crush driven teen. She really gets you attached to the characters (mainly Bella and Edward, even all the Cullens).
It's a great tale of love, lust, surrender, and belief. I would recommend it to anyone that feels compelled to read this series. I both can't wait and DREAD to finsih the series, so I have set a goal to read a "non-saga" book or two in between each so that i can build up my "thrist" for another dose....I will however, be rushing out to catch the movie!
I really did not like this book. A. Maybe because it's a love story and I'm not in to that. B. Maybe it is because all I ever got out of the story line was "I wish Edward was here." "Where's Edward?" "I miss Edward." That just bugged the living crap out of me. I couldn't even finsh the book. I got half way through and I quit. I sorry Stephenie but I can't stand this book. I hate to say this but hopfuly the movie will be better.
Helpful Score: 3
Stephenie Meyer is an amazing writer. The first few chapters draw you in slowly, but then after that, you will be completely absorbed. I read it in a day, the second one in the series, New Moon, in two days. You will love this writer, and her deft symmetry and allegory. Enjoy!
Helpful Score: 3
I read this book and was sorely disappointed. It was fairly predictable and formulaic ...in fact it seemed like the basis for every other vampire romance story I've ever read, only without the good sex bits since this is aimed at Young Adults. LONG before Stephenie Meyer, there was LJ Smith, and if you want to read a TRULY good young adult vampire romance series, go pick up LJ Smith's Vampire Diaries books - much better than this attempt to romanticize the vampire.
I can't BELIEVE this book got a movie deal! I doubt I will read the other books in the series as the first was enough for me.
I can't BELIEVE this book got a movie deal! I doubt I will read the other books in the series as the first was enough for me.
Helpful Score: 3
I requested this book from PBS just to see what all the hype was about and honestly I wasn't pleased. I can see why the book is a hit, though. It's a quick and easy read with a love story that's easy to fall in love with. My main gripe with this book is that the creatures described in this book are not what the legend of vampires has always been, which I have a huge problem with. As a lifelong fan of vampire stories, there are just some aspects of the monster that I don't appreciate being changed. (Like what Stephenie Meyers thinks happens to them when they're exposed to the sun.) I feel like if she was going to take so many liberties with the nuances of vampires, she could have given them a new name entirely.
The book was also overly repetitive for my taste. If I had to hear how beautiful Edward and his family one more time, I was going to scream. But considering I'm 10 years older than the target audience, I cut the author some slack. In the end, I was happy with having read a nice story, but I happily passed the book along to someone who would find more joy in it.
The book was also overly repetitive for my taste. If I had to hear how beautiful Edward and his family one more time, I was going to scream. But considering I'm 10 years older than the target audience, I cut the author some slack. In the end, I was happy with having read a nice story, but I happily passed the book along to someone who would find more joy in it.
Helpful Score: 3
This book was barely ok. I would not think about recommending it to anybody. It is poorly written and she has relatively weak characters. The book series lacks creativity.
Helpful Score: 3
So I read this book to see what the hype was about and was sadly disappointed. The writing made me think of the first book in the Harry Potter series -- easy read, undeveloped characters, and surreal events. (Although I enjoyed the Harry Potter series a lot more.) I was expecting a bit more from a vampire book but instead received a book where the first 350 pages (out of 498) are about a love struck girl and her obsession with the beautiful vampire she meets in school. It starts getting a bit exciting towards chapter 18 and then dies down again. Will I read the rest of the series? Maybe. Am I anxious to get to the next book? Not really. It will be a while before I pick up book 2.
Helpful Score: 3
OK, I'm sorry, but I just don't get it. The heroine is silly and whiny. The hero is a cardboard caricature. Their relationship is downright scary (and not in a goth way; we're talking 1950s stereotypes here, with a ridiculously passive girl willing to accept petty controlling behavior from a guy). Besides, there's just nothing interesting going on! If the subject itself is the draw, you're far better off picking up Robin McKinley's Sunshine or any number of other, MUCH better books. Or go get reacquainted with Buffy for pete's sake. Never thought I'd hold that up as a beacon of social enlightenment, but now I that see how badly wrong this genre can go - well, I realize she was truly protecting civilization as we know it...
Helpful Score: 3
It's like Goosebumps meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer written by a mormon, Anne Rice fan. Great for your teenage daughter up to your 83-year old Grandmother, but not really a dude book.
Helpful Score: 3
17 year old Bella goes to live with her father. New school, new friends, and a guy who sits beside her in class who is very antagonistic one day, and almost friendly the next. Bella soon discovers that Edward and his whole family are vampires.
Interesting story, but the first half was a little slow. It soon picks up.
Interesting story, but the first half was a little slow. It soon picks up.
Helpful Score: 3
I know a lot of people love the Twilight series so I thought I would offer my opinion as well. I've always loved stories about vampires, but this one just made me angry. It took me awhile to pinpoint why. The main character, Bella, is a very weak character. She has no inner strength. She falls in instant love at first sight with Edward and afterward can't function without him.
Its the story of a girl who's entire life is about a boy. I don't believe this is the right message we should be sending to our young girls. There are so many other stories out there, many with vampire love stories for teens, that have a much stronger character then Bella for the female lead.
Its the story of a girl who's entire life is about a boy. I don't believe this is the right message we should be sending to our young girls. There are so many other stories out there, many with vampire love stories for teens, that have a much stronger character then Bella for the female lead.
Helpful Score: 3
This is about a girl named Bella and a family of vampires. I didn't think I would be interested in it as I'm not big into fantasy, but I absolutely loved it! I read it in a couple days and halfway through I liked it so much I ordered the 2nd and 3rd book of the series!
Helpful Score: 3
I enjoyed Twilight when I read it alone, (my 13-year-old daughter adored it!!) but so much more when I discovered that author Stephenie Meyer has posted the first 12 chapters of her companion book, Midnight Sun, that tells the story from Edward's point of view on her web site (stepheniemeyer.com). Reading them together makes for a much more compelling story. Bella's story is a bit too annoyingly "teen" and obsessive for my general taste (and I agree that Meyer must have worn out a thesaurus finding words to describe physical beauty) but Edward's sometimes hilarious and melodramtic takes on things was wonderfully enjoyable. While the story is a very sweet and tender "first love" romance from either point of view, Edward's view brings a richness to the relationship that adds a wonderful beauty and depth to the story. As the book nears its midpoint and heads for the conclusion, the action picks up considerably. Overall, I would definitely recommend, especially when read combined - certainly captivating and surprisingly addictive.
Helpful Score: 3
I am writing this review after having read the entire series, so I cannot be totally un-biased with regard to the individual book itself. Stephanie Meyer has the ability to capture the reader's attention and draw you in. I would liken it to the appeal of a reality tv series or a soap opera--you start reading and however silly, trite or banal the detail she is depicting, you just constantly want to know "what happens next?"
I think there is a high percentage of readership coming from adult women who enjoy the novelty of going back to the time of the "high school crush" that turns into what at the time seems like "true love," although looking at it through wiser eyes, we (speaking on behalf of the adult women readers) understand that there is so much more to love than we once thought at that age. Nonetheless, there is a power to "teen romance" that is not often grasped in its true, raw sense--flawed and co-dependant. But that is its charm!
No--Bella is not a "role model" for young girls. However, she IS a character that many girls can identify with. Her family situation--parents divorced, mom being a "flake" and more like the child than a parent; that alone creates some of the dynamics we see in Bella's personality. Meyer is crafting a REALISTIC, not IDEALISTIC characterization in that respect. (Obviously, not that vampires are real--LOL) Book 2 of the series portrays very real, identifiable emotions and conflicts. Does Bella choose the best paths? Well...we wouldn't have a story if she wasn't busy getting into trouble, now would we?
I'd give this book a chance to spin its charm. Adults not into "waxing nostalgic" might not be so tolerant.
As an aside, my 13 year old son's name is "Cullen" and he is MORTIFIED at the publicity and popularity of the name (even though it is a last name/family name in the book). I find it quite amusing to tease him with "Team Cullen" t-shirts or "I drive like a Cullen" license-plate holders! I have thought about getting a "future Mrs. Cullen" t-shirt to hold on to for my some-day daughter-in-law down the road. Its that sort of thing that is just "fun" to be part of during this whole "Twilight Sensation."
I think there is a high percentage of readership coming from adult women who enjoy the novelty of going back to the time of the "high school crush" that turns into what at the time seems like "true love," although looking at it through wiser eyes, we (speaking on behalf of the adult women readers) understand that there is so much more to love than we once thought at that age. Nonetheless, there is a power to "teen romance" that is not often grasped in its true, raw sense--flawed and co-dependant. But that is its charm!
No--Bella is not a "role model" for young girls. However, she IS a character that many girls can identify with. Her family situation--parents divorced, mom being a "flake" and more like the child than a parent; that alone creates some of the dynamics we see in Bella's personality. Meyer is crafting a REALISTIC, not IDEALISTIC characterization in that respect. (Obviously, not that vampires are real--LOL) Book 2 of the series portrays very real, identifiable emotions and conflicts. Does Bella choose the best paths? Well...we wouldn't have a story if she wasn't busy getting into trouble, now would we?
I'd give this book a chance to spin its charm. Adults not into "waxing nostalgic" might not be so tolerant.
As an aside, my 13 year old son's name is "Cullen" and he is MORTIFIED at the publicity and popularity of the name (even though it is a last name/family name in the book). I find it quite amusing to tease him with "Team Cullen" t-shirts or "I drive like a Cullen" license-plate holders! I have thought about getting a "future Mrs. Cullen" t-shirt to hold on to for my some-day daughter-in-law down the road. Its that sort of thing that is just "fun" to be part of during this whole "Twilight Sensation."
Helpful Score: 3
After looking through other member reviews I find myself surprised at the negative feelings surrounding the book from PBS members. I am an avid romance and vampire novel reader and can only voice my opinion, but I loved all four of the books in this series. The story truly took me back in time and made me feel young again. I find Bella refreshingly humble and "real" for a teenage character, insecurities and all. The Twilight Saga books will remain keepers on my shelf right along side my Ward vampire series novels...
Helpful Score: 3
My son *hates* these movies -- so what better reason than that to read the books? I'm late to the party, I know, but that's nothing new.
So, I read the book, then watched the movie. If you've only seen the movie -- or just the commercials for the movies! -- you've missed a lot. I can see now why my son thinks the movies are boring. They have to leave a lot of the details out, of course, to fit the films into two hours. But what I'd like to see is moving the story along -- leave out all the "intense moments" where they're just staring at each other -- and actually tell the story more as the author wrote it.
I like the way the author writes. Sometimes, a book written in the first person just comes off as a "ME! ME! ME!" story, but it's not like that. I like her sense of humor. I *love* the fact that it's just pure, fun entertainment. You don't need to highlight anything, or make notes in the margins. You can just go along for the ride.
I'd honestly like to see a stronger heroine and there are hints throughout that there's something here that we just haven't seen yet. I haven't read the last book, "Breaking Dawn," yet, and I really hope the big reveal is there.
So, I read the book, then watched the movie. If you've only seen the movie -- or just the commercials for the movies! -- you've missed a lot. I can see now why my son thinks the movies are boring. They have to leave a lot of the details out, of course, to fit the films into two hours. But what I'd like to see is moving the story along -- leave out all the "intense moments" where they're just staring at each other -- and actually tell the story more as the author wrote it.
I like the way the author writes. Sometimes, a book written in the first person just comes off as a "ME! ME! ME!" story, but it's not like that. I like her sense of humor. I *love* the fact that it's just pure, fun entertainment. You don't need to highlight anything, or make notes in the margins. You can just go along for the ride.
I'd honestly like to see a stronger heroine and there are hints throughout that there's something here that we just haven't seen yet. I haven't read the last book, "Breaking Dawn," yet, and I really hope the big reveal is there.
Helpful Score: 2
Ye Gawds, this is the worst book I've ever attempted to read, I managed to get through 50 pages before I got bored to tears and took it back to the library!
Helpful Score: 2
I fell in love with the characters of Twilight and could not put it down!
Helpful Score: 2
This book was adaquet. It was not worth the time however that I spent reading it. It was all right at the beginning where she moves into the new town and sort of meets the people, but it got completely hokey when she's running away because the other vampires are after her. What ever. It was like reading a fairy tale that was not written by Grimm - so it wasn't that good. I don't recommend any of these books to ANYBODY.
Helpful Score: 2
This was an excellent book and becomes a little less confusing after reading a few chapters of Midnight Sun(told from Edward's point of view). The "older crowd" or younger kids probably have trouble relating to a high-school girl. The "young-at-heart" and teenagers themselves will enjoy this book. It is well written and caused my vocabulary to extend a great deal. Considering that this woman had no intentions of the book ever becoming published or even read by many people, it has been very successful. It is my recommendation to begin the series in junior high (7-8 grade) at the least. The intensity of the the relationship was unclear to me until I read New Moon and the beginning of Midnight Sun- I didn't have the foggiest idea how strongly Edward felt about Bella. This is a must read!
Helpful Score: 2
One. Great. Book. This is one of my all time favorites. I have NEVER read a book about vampires. I picked this book up on a whim and I'm so glad that I did. This book will keep you engrossed until the end. I read it all in one day. I still re read this book. I would recommend picking up this book even if you don't like vampires. Stephenie is a WONDERFUL author.
Helpful Score: 2
This is the story of Bella, a high school girl who falls in love with Edward, a vampire. I read this book on my husband's recommendation - he saw a review of it that called this series the next thing to read for Harry Potter fans. I found it more similar Buffy the Vampire Slayer (without the slaying) than HP, but, for the most part, enjoyed it. However, it was certainly melodramatic at times (I guess that can be expected, since it is told in the voice of a 17-year-old girl), and I'm ambivalent about how much I like Bella as a heroine (especially because I read the excerpt of the next book included with this one), but will continue to read the series and see how the next book develops.
Helpful Score: 2
Granted, I am a good twenty-five years older than the age group this series was meant for, but I must admit I did enjoy it! It was an easy read, containing a lot of emotional expense, but not a whole lot of action until the end. While I really wasn't "wowed" by this one, I can understand the appeal to the younger crowd...sort of a teen version of the Anne Rice Vampire Chronicles from years ago, but definitely much milder as far as violence and eroticism is concerned. As a parent, I would have no problem letting a teen or even "tween" daughter read this - it is mystical, but still innocent. No real gore or violence at all.
For me, as an "old lady", I have to say I the author captured the "new teen in school" feel very well - and I liked being reminded of what it was to be a teenager, although my life wasn't nearly as exciting as Bella's! :) Overall, a very entertaining read, but certainly lacking the more adult sophistication of Anne Rice, whom I love. I certainly liked this enough to go forward with the rest of the series, although I'm not expecting to be completely impressed...I do feel I'll be entertained!
And I repeat...I AM old! I admit it.
For me, as an "old lady", I have to say I the author captured the "new teen in school" feel very well - and I liked being reminded of what it was to be a teenager, although my life wasn't nearly as exciting as Bella's! :) Overall, a very entertaining read, but certainly lacking the more adult sophistication of Anne Rice, whom I love. I certainly liked this enough to go forward with the rest of the series, although I'm not expecting to be completely impressed...I do feel I'll be entertained!
And I repeat...I AM old! I admit it.
Helpful Score: 2
Probably one of the worst pieces of drivel I've ever attempted to read. I'd complain about the writing style, but since it's written for young adults, the quality of writing is on par with what one would expect. If you like helpless princesses and romance, this is the book for you. Otherwise: AVOID!
Helpful Score: 2
Not since Lord of the Rings have I been so enthralled with a book. The characters were written with a depth I haven't seen in a long while. Even though the books were written for teens and young adults, there was a timelessness and innocence about them that made even a jaded old lady like myself fall hopelessly in love with the story. I found that I tended to get put-out with Bella because I felt like she caused many of her own problems, but then, having been written from a teen's perspective, I suppose she was very realistic in character since most teen problems are based in flawed thought processes, lol! I read all four books in under a week and as soon as I can clear off some of these other books I have in my to be read pile, I will read them again. Hopefully I won't cry through New Moon this time! (bg)
Helpful Score: 2
I decided I had to read this book, the first in the Twilight series, because of the pop culture phenomenon it had become. It is an easy, quick read, clearly targeted for the YA reader. It's a classic story with a dangerous twist---Juliet finds out Romeo is a vampire, albeit an incredibly mature, restrained and cultured one. It's a fresh take on the vampire genre, and the romance and attraction between the two lead characters is undeniable and well-wrought. I enjoyed it and will go on to read the rest of the series. I cannot say it's classic literature, but it is a fun read.
Helpful Score: 2
I agree with the previous reviewer, Lisa M. that Twilight is definitely "high-school", but I enjoyed it for a couple of reasons. First, I like to occasionally read other genres just because I like to know what younger people are thinking and valuing...keeps me from getting too out of touch "in my old age." Second, it was just a light, entertaining read. I love to contrast the various "rules" that vampires from various authors have to follow regarding light, diet, and other problems of daily life in the mortal world. Lisa M. also talked about how she found it hard to believe that "plain jane Bella" got Edward to fall for her just because of her smell. My understanding was that Bella was really quite beautiful, but, because she'd never fit in, had low self-esteem and only thought of herself as plain. Also, hey, in high school, who doesn't dream of having the most gorgeous boy in the school fall for you because he sees something no one else doesn't?
Helpful Score: 2
One of my favorite books. Great romance and narrative! Also with suspense and good humor.
Helpful Score: 2
This is by far the best book/series I've read yet! They're all going to my keeper shelf to pass on to my daughter within the next few years. There was not one thing I didn't like about this book, and don't expect to find another book/series anytime soon that will live up to this one. I can see this book becoming a classic for years to come. Not at all predictable, and a non-stop page turner from start to finish. I highly recommend giving this book a try!...A 5 star read!
Helpful Score: 2
I honestly turned my nose up at this book when it was first suggested to me. I think my exact words were, "I am NOT going to read a vampire book!" I'm happy to say that I opened my mind a bit and gave the book a chance. It was truly one of the best books I have ever read. I read it in about a day and a half-it is a nearly impossible book to put down. Please, do as I did and give it a try.
I had heard sooo much hype about the twilight book series, after the movie was annouced. Of course, not wanting to follow the crowd I ignored most of it and chalked it up to another stupid Hollywood made hype. Then I found myself pregnant and VERY bored needing to pass some time. I ordered this book thru paperbackswap and started reading immediately. I still have not seen the movie. Since my husband and I have been married I haven't really gotten involved in a book to the point of not being able to put it down, until now!! My husband can't believe the amount of time I spent reading the first book (now I am on the 2nd one). I LOOOOVE it! It has a great compelling story to it and takes a nice new twist on the vampire stories from before. No offense Mrs. Rice!! I have throughly enjoyed reading the beginning of this series and can not believe it has been put under a young adult group. I am 27 yrs old and have become totally addicted. I can't wait to see the movie now! I just hope it's not a let down. We all remember how horrible Hollywood butchered Great Expectations with Gwen and Ethan, right? ;)
Helpful Score: 2
Utterly forgettable writing with occasional snippets of amusing dialog. Appealing but static characters and a strange take on vampires to say the least. A light read that might be mildly diverting for an afternoon or two but nothing to justify the ridiculous amount of hype this title has gotten.
Helpful Score: 2
Watch out, you will get lost in this book. Nothing else will matter except reading. It was a pleasure to get lost so easily.
Helpful Score: 2
"If you loved Harry Potter, you are going to adore the Twilight series," said my SIL. Perhaps there is another Twilight series and I just read the wrong one. This book was filled with vapid descriptions of how perfect Bella thought her, "personal miracle," was and how unworthy she was.
The author basically set up sceneros where Bella needs rescuing which of course makes teenaged girls sigh and older women who should know better swoon. If Edward wasn't a vampire constantly rescuing Bella, he would be viewed as a weirdo who was overly controling, manipulative, and a stalker. I kept waiting for some real action, and it wasn't until the end of the book when I got some.
If you love the Lifetime channel, have no problem with a sparkly, vegan vampire who doesn't carry his love in his arms, but by piggy back, and enjoy a few hundred pages of, "I love you; no, I love you more," dialogue then by all means this is the book for you. Personally, as a horror movie junkie, I just want to slap Meyer for Bela Lugosi. The man is probably rolling in his grave.
The author basically set up sceneros where Bella needs rescuing which of course makes teenaged girls sigh and older women who should know better swoon. If Edward wasn't a vampire constantly rescuing Bella, he would be viewed as a weirdo who was overly controling, manipulative, and a stalker. I kept waiting for some real action, and it wasn't until the end of the book when I got some.
If you love the Lifetime channel, have no problem with a sparkly, vegan vampire who doesn't carry his love in his arms, but by piggy back, and enjoy a few hundred pages of, "I love you; no, I love you more," dialogue then by all means this is the book for you. Personally, as a horror movie junkie, I just want to slap Meyer for Bela Lugosi. The man is probably rolling in his grave.
Helpful Score: 2
I watched the movie before I read this book. I'm glad I did because as I was reading I could picture scenes more clearly. It is true that the movie left out scenes from the book, but also the movie added things and switched some things around. I couldn't tell you which I liked more. I am just mushing it all into the same story.
This is an amazing love story. It has great writing, and it really draws you in. I read the book in four days - but only because I made myself put it down at times. Otherwise I could have been up all night reading it.
If you haven't seen the movie than I would suggest you watch it before you read the book. I think you could be dissapointed at the movie if you read the book first. I am not going to wait to read the other books though. I am going to start "New Moon" this weekend. I just can't wait for the movie, that would drive me crazy. I have to know where this story is going!
This is an amazing love story. It has great writing, and it really draws you in. I read the book in four days - but only because I made myself put it down at times. Otherwise I could have been up all night reading it.
If you haven't seen the movie than I would suggest you watch it before you read the book. I think you could be dissapointed at the movie if you read the book first. I am not going to wait to read the other books though. I am going to start "New Moon" this weekend. I just can't wait for the movie, that would drive me crazy. I have to know where this story is going!
I read this book quite a while back before there was any talk of a movie. I've actually read the whole series. Honestly, I loved it, even though I am far from high school age. It is a light and easy read with a sweet love story and a little bit of action/danger thrown in. I thought Ms. Meyer did a nice job with character development, for the most part. Even Edward, our drop dead gorgeous, perfect man(vampire) had some flaws which made him all the more real. I think if you like sweet, chaste romances with a twist, you might enjoy this novel. Just keep in mind that it's light, fun reading and not the great American novel.
Helpful Score: 2
This entire series is AMAZING. If you don't read it you are really missing out. This is by far the best series I have EVER read. I was very sad to see the words "THE END" when I finished the last book in the series. I've already read the entire series twice. It's THAT good.
Helpful Score: 2
just because you can't put this book down, doesn't mean that it is good.
i couldn't put it down, and i hated it.
so i think it is enchanted or something.
maybe, maybe, this book would be intriguing to girls young enough to have never been in a real relationship before, but anyone older and wiser than that who likes it,makes me wonder...
the character of edward was very seductive to my bored housewife psyche...but that is because i am cloistered with my husband and children for weeks at a time and haven't had a romance in many years (except the one with my husband)
the character of bella is snivelling and weak and ruined the entire book for me. i hated the fact that she was supposed to be portrayed as an outcast, when the popular kids (especially boys) in school were fighting for her attention and favor. that does not happen in real life. had she been made more unconventional and intriguing then MAYBE i wouldn't hate this book.
hate is a strong word, i know... but with such intriguing possibilities and such (absolutely false, completely overexaggerated)hype of this author and the supposed quality of this book, i expected FAR more than i got.
this book was milktoast.
i won't be reading the next...but offer it here so i can get a credit toward something worth reading. :)
i couldn't put it down, and i hated it.
so i think it is enchanted or something.
maybe, maybe, this book would be intriguing to girls young enough to have never been in a real relationship before, but anyone older and wiser than that who likes it,makes me wonder...
the character of edward was very seductive to my bored housewife psyche...but that is because i am cloistered with my husband and children for weeks at a time and haven't had a romance in many years (except the one with my husband)
the character of bella is snivelling and weak and ruined the entire book for me. i hated the fact that she was supposed to be portrayed as an outcast, when the popular kids (especially boys) in school were fighting for her attention and favor. that does not happen in real life. had she been made more unconventional and intriguing then MAYBE i wouldn't hate this book.
hate is a strong word, i know... but with such intriguing possibilities and such (absolutely false, completely overexaggerated)hype of this author and the supposed quality of this book, i expected FAR more than i got.
this book was milktoast.
i won't be reading the next...but offer it here so i can get a credit toward something worth reading. :)
Helpful Score: 2
If I was a young-teen girl, I probably would be raving about how "wonderful!" this book was. As a almost-middle aged man, I call it a guilty pleasure.
Sparkly vampires. I laughed my head off!
Meyers does a wonderful job of showing how impulsive, headstrong and completely idiotic a person in first-love can be. Good to be reminded of what it is like to be young.
Looking forward to reading the next couple in this series. Good to know that there is the chance of were-wolves. "Rise of the Lycans!" hahahahaha...
Sparkly vampires. I laughed my head off!
Meyers does a wonderful job of showing how impulsive, headstrong and completely idiotic a person in first-love can be. Good to be reminded of what it is like to be young.
Looking forward to reading the next couple in this series. Good to know that there is the chance of were-wolves. "Rise of the Lycans!" hahahahaha...
Helpful Score: 2
Juvenile and immature, the author tells a story with several plot-holes. It's not as great as some would have you believe, but it's bearable, and it is worth the read, if only to be able to discuss the pop-phenom.
Helpful Score: 2
This is the first in a series of four. I was spellbound. Although, the audience for this book is teens & young adults, I found it very engrossing. Not the typical "vampire" book. I can't wait to read the next.
Helpful Score: 2
I had never heard of the Twilight series until Stephenie Meyer was on tv promoting her last book in the series. Out of curiousity I checked the audio out at the library. Although it was a bit mushy with Bella swooning over Edward's "chiseled chest", the book was interesting and I was hooked until I finished the series. I even made part of my family, 2 of my sons and my hubby, listen to it with me on the way to church. Their only gripe was there needed to be a guy's version with less of the mooning over each other done by Bella and Edward. I did notice they all asked for updates on the books when I listened to them by myself. I would recommend the books for an enjoyable read even with the chiseled chest part. Remember, they were wrote for tweens.
Helpful Score: 2
To be honest, I felt quite foolish picking this book up. 1. It's classified as 'Young Adult' and my book store happened to sit it right next to some of the very same titles that I read when I was in my elemantary school years. 2. It's a book about vampires. I can honestly say that I was, and still to this day am not a fond reader of 'Fantasy' type fiction. But, for the passed few weeks I've heard tons of gossip about the series, and now that the movie trailers are finally hitting the big screens, I wanted to make sure I read this before the movie spoiled everything for me.
The first few chapters in, I felt like I was reading an old 'Fear Street' book from my junior high years. I honestly wanted to just put the book down, and chalk it up to a good try. But I couldn't stop reading. I kept having to tell myself that the book was intended for a younger audience, and had to excuse some of the sappy dialogue between the characters. I can't really pinpoint what sucked me into this book, and when I become obsessed. Maybe it was the fact that it brought back my youth, or the fact that a good 'love' story (insert chuckle here) is always a page turner. Whatever it is, I am hooked. I have now engulfed myself in the world of vampires .. and the Cullens of course.
The first few chapters in, I felt like I was reading an old 'Fear Street' book from my junior high years. I honestly wanted to just put the book down, and chalk it up to a good try. But I couldn't stop reading. I kept having to tell myself that the book was intended for a younger audience, and had to excuse some of the sappy dialogue between the characters. I can't really pinpoint what sucked me into this book, and when I become obsessed. Maybe it was the fact that it brought back my youth, or the fact that a good 'love' story (insert chuckle here) is always a page turner. Whatever it is, I am hooked. I have now engulfed myself in the world of vampires .. and the Cullens of course.
Helpful Score: 2
Although this book is kind of cheesy and clearly intended for a female teenage audience, I could not stop reading it. I picked it up because a colleague at work was reading it intently, but when I asked her what it was about her answer was evasive. Now I understand that she was embarrassed to admit she was reading a romance about teenage vampires. I admit that I only read this book in the privacy of my own home, but oh, what a wonderful guilty pleasure.
Helpful Score: 2
Awesome book just like everybody says!!! Can't wait to read the next three! Loved it. I actually saw this in the grocery store and saw that it was young adult and said "Nah!". Then I heard a vamp movie was coming out based on a book. Did a little research and read reviews and requested it here. I am glad I have read it. Don't let the YA sway you.
Helpful Score: 2
My absolute favorite book that I have ever read. Do not let the "young adult" label fool you, this book is an amazing read for all ages. It flows so quickly and wraps you up in a whirlwind of excitement, it is over long before you'd like it to be. Then you can move on to the sequels!
Helpful Score: 2
My teenage daughter bought this book and suggested I read it...skeptical because it came from the "teen section", I read it..and like everyone else I was hooked..I have read the entire series and after the 3rd one, I was hoping for more...I can't wait to see what else she writes! This is truly a great series, Vampires, Werewolves, love, mystery..it's all there!
Helpful Score: 2
In all honesty... it was THE most addictive book I've ever read. It's a little over 500 pages, pretty hefty! And I read it in 2 days. My house was a bit neglected but I couldn't help myself. Mrs Meyer has the skill (maybe even better than) of Dean Koontz to make you really know the characters, to either love them or hate them, to really feel something. I never thought I'd love characters more than I loved those in Koontz's book The Good Guy, I even loved the bad guy in that. There's just something that lifts off the paper and you are no longer where you are sitting reading this book, you are there with Bella and you are in love with Edward too, then you feel frustrated with him when she does and you feel anger at him when she does.
I really hesitated reading this book because it was titled for "young adults". But oh my gosh! I'm so glad I finally said, Ok, alright... let's see what all the fuss is about! I think if I hadn't had the next book already here at home I'd have had withdrawl symptoms!
I really hesitated reading this book because it was titled for "young adults". But oh my gosh! I'm so glad I finally said, Ok, alright... let's see what all the fuss is about! I think if I hadn't had the next book already here at home I'd have had withdrawl symptoms!
Helpful Score: 2
The first half of this audio CD is unbeatable. It's engaging, engrossing, and I didn't want to stop listening - this young lady's life was getting stranger and stranger...and speaking of stranger, this strange young man, Edward, was consuming my thoughts! Meyer revealed *just* enough information about him at just the right times to keep the story together.
The second half was terrible - the story devolved into a cheesy teen romance where every other sentence was "I love you," and "Are you okay?" Icky.
The reader was okay - her voice was believable enough as an older teen, but the way she pronounced "Bella" had to be one of the most annoying sounds I've ever heard. She basically whispered the name each time she said it, I suppose in an attempt to make it sound magical or something. It didn't; and on the whole, the story wasn't.
The second half was terrible - the story devolved into a cheesy teen romance where every other sentence was "I love you," and "Are you okay?" Icky.
The reader was okay - her voice was believable enough as an older teen, but the way she pronounced "Bella" had to be one of the most annoying sounds I've ever heard. She basically whispered the name each time she said it, I suppose in an attempt to make it sound magical or something. It didn't; and on the whole, the story wasn't.
Basically I think there's way too much hype over this.
So let me add my piece into this huge pile of reviews...
Me and this series have a love/hate relationship. I hate it because most of the characters drive me insane or basically useless (ex. Jasper seems to be useful for about 5 pages in book 3 and other than that could be completely written out), Bella's a whiny annoying brat, and this book rambles more than I do.
Now the love part is very small I really liked a few pieces of the book, small parts that I thought were touching or interesting for one reason or another and couldn't get out of my head for days.
Back to the hate, this is the only book that really had anything worthwhile in it, the rest of them tend to be boring, repetitive, and so corny I had to put them down and walk away.
Oh and lets not forget the fact that if a relationship was REALLY like this I hope that someone would step in because it's creepy and obsessive and maybe rules are different for vampires but a human that was as obsessive as him would probably start beating her a week after the honeymoon...
But that's just my opinion.
So let me add my piece into this huge pile of reviews...
Me and this series have a love/hate relationship. I hate it because most of the characters drive me insane or basically useless (ex. Jasper seems to be useful for about 5 pages in book 3 and other than that could be completely written out), Bella's a whiny annoying brat, and this book rambles more than I do.
Now the love part is very small I really liked a few pieces of the book, small parts that I thought were touching or interesting for one reason or another and couldn't get out of my head for days.
Back to the hate, this is the only book that really had anything worthwhile in it, the rest of them tend to be boring, repetitive, and so corny I had to put them down and walk away.
Oh and lets not forget the fact that if a relationship was REALLY like this I hope that someone would step in because it's creepy and obsessive and maybe rules are different for vampires but a human that was as obsessive as him would probably start beating her a week after the honeymoon...
But that's just my opinion.
Helpful Score: 2
Absolutely loved this book. It was a spur of the moment choice at t he library and I am so glad I grabbed it. I just may buy for keeps.
Helpful Score: 2
I like many others heard the hype about this book and after Breaking Dawn came out..I walked into the bookstore and bought Twilight. Now keep in mind, I don't read vampire books, I really don't even like vampires..so I started reading this book already thinking I wouldn't like it. Boy was I ever wrong. I love this even above and beyond Harry Potter. It's more of a grown up version of Harry Potter.
The best way I can compare this book is to the 1980s soap opera of Beauty and the Beast where the bad guy really isn't the bad guy (aka the Beast or in the book's case Edward) and he's actually there to protect the girl (aka Beauty or Bella in the book) from the actual bad guys.
I loved this book and quickly rushed out the next day to buy the rest of the series. The story line flowed rather nicely and it just reminded me of how I acted around the first guy that I really fell in love with. I cannot wait to read the other 3 books in the series!
Trust me, if you were one of these that don't like to read vampire books or didn't believe you would like this book, pick it up, give a try, you'll be amazed.
The best way I can compare this book is to the 1980s soap opera of Beauty and the Beast where the bad guy really isn't the bad guy (aka the Beast or in the book's case Edward) and he's actually there to protect the girl (aka Beauty or Bella in the book) from the actual bad guys.
I loved this book and quickly rushed out the next day to buy the rest of the series. The story line flowed rather nicely and it just reminded me of how I acted around the first guy that I really fell in love with. I cannot wait to read the other 3 books in the series!
Trust me, if you were one of these that don't like to read vampire books or didn't believe you would like this book, pick it up, give a try, you'll be amazed.
Helpful Score: 2
Considering how much I love Vampires, this is one of the best stories I have read about them by far. Stephanie Meyer puts in a new twist on the myth, making Vampires more real than ever. This book really brings out the true feelings of the vampires, adding more life to the undead.
Helpful Score: 2
Really enjoyed it, great romance story without all the sex!
Helpful Score: 2
What can I say? I'm a children's literature major so I decided to see what all the hype was about this series. I found it an easy read, full of teen angst and romance. Like many vampire/human relationships, this one has the usual rocky patches but true love come through.
The characters are fairly believable. The story does have a timeless quality about it, much like the TV shows Moonlight and True Blood. Edward the vampire is appropriately mysterious and Bella the human is enjoyable. I could really relate to her when I considered my own years in high school.
The undercurrents of attraction and loyalty are strong. This book seems to be extremely popular with preteens, teens and adults. After reading it, I can understand. I will be reading the remainder of the series as I now am interested in finding out what happens in this relationship.
The characters are fairly believable. The story does have a timeless quality about it, much like the TV shows Moonlight and True Blood. Edward the vampire is appropriately mysterious and Bella the human is enjoyable. I could really relate to her when I considered my own years in high school.
The undercurrents of attraction and loyalty are strong. This book seems to be extremely popular with preteens, teens and adults. After reading it, I can understand. I will be reading the remainder of the series as I now am interested in finding out what happens in this relationship.
Helpful Score: 2
This book is great. Action and Romance. I think Stephanie Meyer is a very good writer (regardless of what Stephen King says) I have never cared for books that were written in the first person and I was 3/4 of the way through this book before I realized it. I love it and I highly recommend this book and the entire saga for any age group.
Helpful Score: 2
While I found it an easy and interesting read, I have to agree with some of the other reviewers that this book really did not live up to its hype. I intend to read the sequels, but I just don't consider Twilight to be nearly on the same level as, for example, Charlaine Harris' Southern Vampire series.
Helpful Score: 2
Loved this book. Very well written. An easy read. Great characters. You can't help but get drawn into the world that Stephenie creates. Could not wait to read the next one and the next one and the next one!
Helpful Score: 2
I bought these books when I heard about the first movie. My friend had read all of them and she told me that I should read them. I bought the first book to see how I would like it. Needless to say before I was even half way through the book I had bought the three other books. I absolutely LOVED these books and will read them over and over again. I could hardly put down these books. I was so excited about the movie when it came out and can't wait to buy it on DVD on March 21st. I told everyone that I could about these books. I can't believe that anyone would say anything negative about this series. I think everyone, young and old, can relate to these stories. I highly recommend these books to anyone who wants to read a great vampire series!!
Helpful Score: 1
The heroine is a self sacrificing doormat and the hero is a guilt ridden 100 year old virgin, but I keep re-reading it anyway. My only theory is that the author sold her soul to get a certain percentage of readers to love it and I'm in the devil's percentile.
Helpful Score: 1
Definitely better than the movie...I have always enjoyed teen novels...although I am an adult now. Though, I did not feel the pang of lust/love that the character would (I imagine) like I have in several other books...it was entertaining enough though that I am ready to hit the second book, New Moon.
Helpful Score: 1
An excellent book. The first volume of the four-book Twilight Saga. When I first heard about it I was doubtful (teen vampire romance not being my usual preference for books), but then I found the boxed set of all the volumes for a great price. I decided to give them a try, and I'm very glad that I did. In the first book you essentially get to read about the formation of the relationship between Edward Cullen (vampire) and Bella Swan (human). While the writing (and editing) of the books are not of the best quality you can find, the originality and entertainment present in the books make them all well worth the read. I had trouble putting them down until I was finished, and wouldn't mind reading them again. Definitely highly recommended.
Helpful Score: 1
Loved this book! Loved the series! Can't wait for more. Highly recommend!
Helpful Score: 1
Great book and series. I am normally a historical romance reader and didn't think I would get into a story about teenage vampires, but after numerous friends recommended it I decided to give it a try. I was hooked! I'm just about done book 3 and can't wait to read the final book. I think I'll be going through withdrawals when I am done the series!
Helpful Score: 1
I was surprised at how much I liked Twilight. It was simply written but thoroughly captivating. I read some of the negative reviews about this book and I can see the concerns other readers had about the relationship between Edward and Bella. However, it seemed to fit. I thought it was perfect and I have the next book on hold at the library.
Helpful Score: 1
My wife loves this series and is trying to get me to read it...so I'm trying my best. I started it and so far so good. Stephenie Meyer is a bit of an anomaly it seems. Not being a writer prior to writing these books, Mormon background, vampire author, writing these book for herself (and for no other reason), developing with no real basis such solid teenage characters, doing it all very well obviously, and keeping a compelling story alive and well. She's even out doing J. K. Rowling! Who knew?
Helpful Score: 1
Very good. Just block off a couple of days because you won't want to put it down.
Helpful Score: 1
I love vampire stories and this is now an all time favorite. I was skeptical at first since this book is found in the teen/young adult genre, but like so many others I was hooked immediately and could not put it down. I bought the sequels to this book as soon as I finished & devoted the entire weekend to reading them!
Helpful Score: 1
I found this entire series delightful and the story breathtaking. I read all 4 books in a weekend so you know they are an easy read. If you're looking for something to remind you of that high school romance (that you either had or wished you had), read this book. The relationship between Bella and the rest of the characters is intriguing and the instant attraction between her and Edward is the stuff all our dreams are made of.
Helpful Score: 1
Loved this book!! I know it was created for Teens, and very appropriate for that age group. But I enjoyed this book! Very detailed in descriptions and well written overall...Good Character development! Can't wait to read the next one!
Helpful Score: 1
great book- definitely the best of all 4!
Helpful Score: 1
THIS IS A GREAT BOOK. I STARTED READING THIS TO SEE WHAT THE HIPE WAS ABOUT... NOT KNOWING THAT I WOULD BE DRAGGED IN BY A FEARCE THIRST FOR MORE. I WAS THROUGH THIS 600+ PAGE BOOK IN DAYS, AND I AM NOT A FAST READER. I HAVE NEVER (TELL I READ THIS ONE) BEEN SO INTO A BOOK THAT I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN LITTERALY EVERY FREE MOMENT I WAS READING TO FIND OUT WHAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT.
I SIMPLY LOVED THIS BOOK! GOING TO READ IT AGAIN!!!!
I SIMPLY LOVED THIS BOOK! GOING TO READ IT AGAIN!!!!
Helpful Score: 1
I decided to read this book because my Granddaughter was raving about it. I was amazed to find myself totally caught up in the story and went through the whole series in about a week. I am a fan! It is not great literature, but it is a very compelling story. It seems to cross all generations in its appeal.
Helpful Score: 1
I'm 31 years old with two kids and surprisingly, loved this book. I have no explanation. It's a high school drama/love story and for some reason I could relate. I suppose it brought me back to high school, when your crush consumed your life. And I was not a person that obsessed over their crush in school days.
I'm going to read the second one now and see what happens. Did not watch the movie- since I heard the book was so much better. Maybe will catch it after I finish the series.
I'm going to read the second one now and see what happens. Did not watch the movie- since I heard the book was so much better. Maybe will catch it after I finish the series.
Helpful Score: 1
Truly the start of something beautiful!
Helpful Score: 1
This book is a typical teen love story. Bella moves to Forks and immediately becomes the new girl in town.
Several people in hugh school befriend her, but the one who catches her eye, ignores her.
Edward and his family are differant. They all sit together, don't eat and are all amazingly beautiful.
Edward is very antagonsitic twords Bella, and she is confused about it. What has she done?
One icy day, a van goes careening out of control, and Edward saves Bella from certain death. Now Bella is even more confused, why did Edward save her, and how? He was across the parking lot, how did he get to her so fast?
Even more confusing Edward is now nice to her. The relationship progresses and eventually she discovers Edward is more than he seems.
Through local legands and observation she finds out Edward is a Vampire and his family is also.
He eventually takes her to meet the family, and they are together for a night before trouble ensues. Vampire visitors come into the mix and Bella becomes the target.
Bella and Edward cannot live apart, what would happen if she died?
Find out the answer at the end.
Several people in hugh school befriend her, but the one who catches her eye, ignores her.
Edward and his family are differant. They all sit together, don't eat and are all amazingly beautiful.
Edward is very antagonsitic twords Bella, and she is confused about it. What has she done?
One icy day, a van goes careening out of control, and Edward saves Bella from certain death. Now Bella is even more confused, why did Edward save her, and how? He was across the parking lot, how did he get to her so fast?
Even more confusing Edward is now nice to her. The relationship progresses and eventually she discovers Edward is more than he seems.
Through local legands and observation she finds out Edward is a Vampire and his family is also.
He eventually takes her to meet the family, and they are together for a night before trouble ensues. Vampire visitors come into the mix and Bella becomes the target.
Bella and Edward cannot live apart, what would happen if she died?
Find out the answer at the end.
Helpful Score: 1
At first I thought I was to old for books about high school and vampires (I'm 27, and not particularly fond of either). Glad I read it anyway, this is now one of my favorite books! Great for all ages, my 13 year old cousin and my 50 year old mother are both fans. This is not a book to miss!
Helpful Score: 1
OK this book was entertaining but I have to say I think that Bella was not that interesting. The girl has really interest outside of Edward. I found myself not really caring about what happened to Bella although I did like all the other chacaters. It's too bad the main character of a series of novels written for teenage girls only interest or purpose is to get the boy.
I will give it credit for getting my 11 year old dyslexic daughter to sit down and read for hours on end and finish all four novels.
I will give it credit for getting my 11 year old dyslexic daughter to sit down and read for hours on end and finish all four novels.
Helpful Score: 1
This series is an absolute horrible piece of fiction. Aside from the fact that Meyer completely butchers vampire lore, Bella is the most vapid, anti-feminist character that I have ever had the misfortune to read. The entire series involves Bella worshiping Edward calling him everything from perfect to glorious to God-like, and wondering why he is in love with her when it's so clear that she's a stupid, fragile, clutzy human who doesn't deserve him. Bella is, in a word, too stupid to live. I am seriously dismayed that so many young women adore this series when it teaches them that the only way to validate yourself is through being loved by a superior man. Aside from the troubling anti-feminist message Meyer also lacks the basic artistic skills that it takes to write a good and intriguing book. Her characterization is two-dimensional at best and her ability to plot and build a climax is even worse. The entire series centers around the relationship between these two characters, Bella and Edward, who magically fall in love at first sight with no explanation other than that Edward is hot and Bella smells tasty to Edward.
Bottom line- this book is pure juvenile romantic fantasy with less substance than a Harlequin romance and even worse writing.
Bottom line- this book is pure juvenile romantic fantasy with less substance than a Harlequin romance and even worse writing.
Helpful Score: 1
The book was pretty good. A bit short for my taste but its continued in three others. its about a family of vampires and its pretty funny. i would definitely recommend it. and all the others in the series.
Helpful Score: 1
This is an awesome book. I loved the interaction between Bella and Edward. We read the book first and then bought the movie on Friday at Midnight. Don't let the fact that it is about vampires bother you. It is a part of the book but it isn't gruesome or gory. Vampire books are not normally my thing but this one is awesome!.
Helpful Score: 1
Twilight is a simply amazing book. I think it is definitely for girls though, because the romantic side to it isn't fit for boys. Stephenie Meyer is such a talented author. I love the way she used bigger, more complicated words to make it sound more precise. I also like the fact that Stephenie Meyer chose to create her own version of the vampire. Instead of coffins, she chose speed and strength. Stephenie Meyer's version of a vampire sounds more realistic and not as scary. Twilight really makes you think, and it also expands your thoughts and makes you dream. It is a slimpy amazing book, and I think it will be around for a very long time. Classic.
Helpful Score: 1
Don't waste your time. Seriously. If you want good vampire lit, check out Rice. At least her vampires don't turn into disco balls when they step into sunlight...
Helpful Score: 1
This book was an easy read. Great for preteens or teens in their middle years. I found it a little cheesy. Also, I love vampire books and to me, vampires should NOT sparkle in the sun. Read Anne Rice. Or the Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris. Now those are good books!
Helpful Score: 1
I was unsure I would like this book as I felt it was geared more to the teen reader. But I was pleasantly surprised to find it very well written and appeals to people of all ages. I can't wait to read the rest of the series-I'm hooked!
Helpful Score: 1
Tried reading a few chapters in a book store one day, and what I discovered was a wretched, amateur writing style. After seeing the quality of writing that so many are reading and loving, I was a bit sad. A junior's book does not need to be badly written or brought down to a lower level, i.e. Hunger Games.
Helpful Score: 1
This book is found in the young adult teenage section, but is quiet enjoyable for an adult read. Not quality fiction by any means, simply a way to shut the mind off and be entertained. I was surprised to find that I couldn't put it down.
Helpful Score: 1
Addictive, simple, quick read. I love the series.
Helpful Score: 1
After hearing so many poor reviews on the book from a favorite site of mine, I decided to give it a go. The plot does not really get to any point except near the end when the suspense and action REALLY kicks in.
The book itself is not painfully BAD... I believe it is the main characters who ruin the book. Bella is what you would call a "Mary Sue" & she makes a poor decision by being with a guy whom she really doesn't know much about... and even as he is repetively rude to her, she falls for him. It's downright annoying and not fluff at all.
Edward seems to have a bipolar disorder... one minute he is saying he is dangerous, then the next he is saving her.. then telling her to not be around him... then trying to get close... I would never want to see his face again if I were in Bella's situation.
Chapter 13 is my least favorite, due to the excess of it all. I dislike how much Meyer repeats how perfect and angelic this Edward is... And the sparkling skin could have been portrayed more astonishing if she hadn't have already said how wonderful he was 100 times in the last 12 chapters... It gets old really fast.
I do enjoy the ending when the suspense kicks in. I won't give a spoiler, but after the "game" it gets good. I also like Edward's siblings, because they have good personalities.
Overall, it is an OK book.. Edward and Bella just don't go for an attractive romantic couple, though. It ruined the whole "romance" portion of the book for me.
The book itself is not painfully BAD... I believe it is the main characters who ruin the book. Bella is what you would call a "Mary Sue" & she makes a poor decision by being with a guy whom she really doesn't know much about... and even as he is repetively rude to her, she falls for him. It's downright annoying and not fluff at all.
Edward seems to have a bipolar disorder... one minute he is saying he is dangerous, then the next he is saving her.. then telling her to not be around him... then trying to get close... I would never want to see his face again if I were in Bella's situation.
Chapter 13 is my least favorite, due to the excess of it all. I dislike how much Meyer repeats how perfect and angelic this Edward is... And the sparkling skin could have been portrayed more astonishing if she hadn't have already said how wonderful he was 100 times in the last 12 chapters... It gets old really fast.
I do enjoy the ending when the suspense kicks in. I won't give a spoiler, but after the "game" it gets good. I also like Edward's siblings, because they have good personalities.
Overall, it is an OK book.. Edward and Bella just don't go for an attractive romantic couple, though. It ruined the whole "romance" portion of the book for me.
Helpful Score: 1
I was told by my niece that I needed to read this book. At first I thought I was a little too old to be reading books on Vampires and things that go bump in the night. But I caved, got the book and started reading it and I couldn't put it down! I found myself carrying the book with me to the coffee shop, reading while standing in line at the DMV, and sneaking a peek while making dinner. It is a well paced story, understandable, not too wordy, not overly scary but still a little nerve wracking to keep things interesting and I am the "cool" aunt since I can discuss it with the local teens with excitement.
I love the visualization I got while reading it. I can see the woods and the rain and feel the damp. I can also understand the first love feelings of the main character, Bella. It's been a while since I was 17 but I haven't forgotten the boy who made my heart flutter for the first time. This book was a wonderful read and as soon as I finished the last page I picked up New Moon, which was already out and waiting for me, and began again.
I love the visualization I got while reading it. I can see the woods and the rain and feel the damp. I can also understand the first love feelings of the main character, Bella. It's been a while since I was 17 but I haven't forgotten the boy who made my heart flutter for the first time. This book was a wonderful read and as soon as I finished the last page I picked up New Moon, which was already out and waiting for me, and began again.
Helpful Score: 1
I'd never heard of the series when I found this paperback in the grocery store while looking for something light to help pass the time while doing laundry. I loved Bella from the start. What female can't identify with a "clumsy outsider" ~ isn't that how every 17 year old girl feels? But I wasn't overwhelmed by the writing and even though I was moderately curious to see how the author was going to overcome the seemingly impossible challenges she'd created for herself in this love-story between a human and the immortal vampire who refuses to change her; I didn't feel the need to run out and get the rest of the series. Maybe, I'm just too old, I thought.
Then I took my daughter to see the movie.
Which made me pick the book back up and read it again. The second time through, the obsession took hold. I re-read Twilight, raced through New Moon, devoured Eclipse and in 2 days gobbled up Breaking Dawn. I love them. Great literature? Heck no! But they are exciting, compelling, and fun stories where you will, by turns, like, hate, identify with, and want to strangle each of the main characters. Now if only Stephanie Meyer could be prevailed upon to finish Midnight Sun!
Then I took my daughter to see the movie.
Which made me pick the book back up and read it again. The second time through, the obsession took hold. I re-read Twilight, raced through New Moon, devoured Eclipse and in 2 days gobbled up Breaking Dawn. I love them. Great literature? Heck no! But they are exciting, compelling, and fun stories where you will, by turns, like, hate, identify with, and want to strangle each of the main characters. Now if only Stephanie Meyer could be prevailed upon to finish Midnight Sun!
Helpful Score: 1
Despite the fact I have a love for vampires that I just can't explain. I am a person that is skeptical for all the wrong reasons. If tons of teenagers love it I'm leary. With the all the fuss made about these books and the movie, I thought it would be far to built up for me to enjoy throughly. I was wrong. I first submitted to the movie. Greatly intriuged. It left me wanting more. Curious to have the finer details movies ALWAYS leave out explained. This book gripped me well from the beginning. I really couldn't put it down. It took me collectively three days to complete. I really wish I had the next book in the series to continue. The writing is easy to read and flows beautifully. The love story is sweet without being too much. I love the struggle they share and this deepending love that many people believe doesn't even exist. (It does by the way) I am glad that I finally have begun this series.
Helpful Score: 1
I read this book over a year and a half ago and everyone thought I was a FREAK for reading a book about vampires. Now, its a nation wide best seller and everyone's 'favorite'. Thanks guys
Helpful Score: 1
great read. i thought it was better than the movie.
Helpful Score: 1
I must say I was pleasantly surprised by this book!! I had "put off" reading it because it was advertised as "young adult" fiction although my daughter, who is in her late 20s, and several older ladies I work with told me that I would really enjoy it. I figured it would be too toned down for me in the romance department (in other words, no sex!) but my daughter gave me the hardcover boxed set for Mother's Day and as I was "between books", I started reading. Next thing I know it's 1:00 AM and I had to get up at 5:00 AM for work!!! :-) I so enjoyed this series that they're on my keeper shelf (of which there are very few) and I plan to read them again soon (which is something I've only done one other time...with "Gone with the Wind"). It was soooo easy to get drawn into this story as the author has quite a way with describing emotions and feelings. This book oozes romance!!!! There is absolutely no physical intimacy in this book but the emotional intimacy is one of the best I have read. I HIGHLY recommend this book -- as well as the others.
Story = A+
Romance = A++
Intimacy = Doesn't matter! :-)
BOOK = A+
Story = A+
Romance = A++
Intimacy = Doesn't matter! :-)
BOOK = A+
Helpful Score: 1
This book was fantastic. I never put it down . I was hooked from the first chapter. I finished all 4 books in less then a week. Now my mother who is 72 is reading them she is now on book 4 and loves them all.I would recommend this book to all ages!
Helpful Score: 1
I couldn't figure out what all the fuss was about until I read the book. Now, I too am hooked! I can't wait to read the others.
I am sure everyone already under 18 already knows how good the Twilight saga is, but I am 24 and I fell in love with it, as well as my sister and mother. I couldnt stop reading every book until I was finished with them all, I think it took me 5 days! They are by far my favorite books of all time! I recomend them to everyone young and old!!
You get so caught up in the story of Bella and Edward and find your self laughing and crying uncontrollably. I think im in love with Edward lol he is my favorite character of any book!
You get so caught up in the story of Bella and Edward and find your self laughing and crying uncontrollably. I think im in love with Edward lol he is my favorite character of any book!
Helpful Score: 1
overall "ehh". I guess I was expecting a lot more for all the hype it's receiving. Definitely enjoyable and I FLEW through it, but didn't feel like I had to IMMEDIATELY pick up the next one to continue reading. In fact read a book in between...
Helpful Score: 1
Meyer weaves a beautiful tale of love, and the supernatural. I could not put this book down, not for anything. The characters suck(pun totally intended) you in, and drink you down, leaving you wanting more. It has just the right amount of love, action, mystery and realness. The lead character, Bella, is just your average teen with a not so average view on things. And Edward? Well... who wouldn't love him? In any case, you'll be dying to get your hands on the next!
Helpful Score: 1
I read this book when it was going through a group of friends prior to the movie coming out in theaters. I thought i wouldn't like it given the whole vampire craze, but i am proud to say it is an amazing book that i couldn't put down.
Helpful Score: 1
I found this book completely fascinating. Its an incredibly creative story that leaves you wondering how someone could be so imaginative as to come up with this whole other world, which is why I think people make the Harry Potter comparison.
Overall the book is a real page turner and I (followed by several friends) read through all 4 books in a matter of days. You find yourself completely caught up in their world and the author does a great job of pulling you into the story. That being said, they're not the most well written pieces of literature, but it doesn't detract for how captivating the story is.
I highly recommend this book to young and old alike. Its rare to find such a unique retelling of a classic tale (vampires).
Overall the book is a real page turner and I (followed by several friends) read through all 4 books in a matter of days. You find yourself completely caught up in their world and the author does a great job of pulling you into the story. That being said, they're not the most well written pieces of literature, but it doesn't detract for how captivating the story is.
I highly recommend this book to young and old alike. Its rare to find such a unique retelling of a classic tale (vampires).
Helpful Score: 1
This book was so good. I could not put it down and i cant wait to read the next one. I have already recommended it to some of my friends.
Helpful Score: 1
The book moves along quickly and the storyline is interesting. I'm on the 4th book in the series and have enjoyed it all.
Helpful Score: 1
This book is amazing! I read the whole series in 5 days. I really did not expect to like it as much as I thought. I fell in love with the story and with the characters. I really don't want to say a ton about the story because I went into, not knowing a lot about the story line. So all the twist and turns made it even more enjoyable to me. Plus harder to put down since I didn't know what was going to happen.
WARNING: This book may cause reading late into the night. One of my friends who I got started on it sent me a text the next day that said, "I am SO mad at you! I was up until 1am reading Twilight." Needless to say she got through the series pretty quick too.
WARNING: This book may cause reading late into the night. One of my friends who I got started on it sent me a text the next day that said, "I am SO mad at you! I was up until 1am reading Twilight." Needless to say she got through the series pretty quick too.
Helpful Score: 1
I absolutely loved this book. My younger daughter convinced me to read it. I was somewhat hesitant since it seemed to be geared more for teen girls. Well, after reading this in two days, I quickly went on and finished the entire series!
Helpful Score: 1
I am a teacher and my middle school girls told me I just had to read this book. I did and I LOVED IT. I quickly read into the rest of the saga and read them all in about 2 weeks. They are very easy reads and you get sucked into the plot. I truly enjoyed them even if it at times seemed a little melodramatic and high schoolish.
Helpful Score: 1
he timeless tale of forbidden love updated with a twist. A Beautiful, Adonis, bloodsucking twist!
Despite the hype and the screaming fan girls I somehow managed to get sucked into this story. If you read it you WILL get sucked in. I had to pace myself while reading this other wise I would have ripped through the whole thing with Edward like speeds! this book was not only entertaining but left me with longing, longing to read more and longing to actually be Bella. Stephani Meyers did a great job at making this a young adult/teen novel that is entertaining for the older crowds. I am 25 but the high school drama parts were still interesting to me. I found myself giggling and smiling while reading it and even blushing when Bella did. The story will draw you in and keep you Thirsting for more. I never lost interest from the first page to the last line that has me so anxious to read the next book I cant stand it! I am glad I bought the big boxed set, I will be re-reading these for years, Definitely a book series that I could NOT live without!
Give this book a shot, even if you put a cover on is no one can see what your reading you wont regret it.
and you WILL want more.
Happy reading!
Despite the hype and the screaming fan girls I somehow managed to get sucked into this story. If you read it you WILL get sucked in. I had to pace myself while reading this other wise I would have ripped through the whole thing with Edward like speeds! this book was not only entertaining but left me with longing, longing to read more and longing to actually be Bella. Stephani Meyers did a great job at making this a young adult/teen novel that is entertaining for the older crowds. I am 25 but the high school drama parts were still interesting to me. I found myself giggling and smiling while reading it and even blushing when Bella did. The story will draw you in and keep you Thirsting for more. I never lost interest from the first page to the last line that has me so anxious to read the next book I cant stand it! I am glad I bought the big boxed set, I will be re-reading these for years, Definitely a book series that I could NOT live without!
Give this book a shot, even if you put a cover on is no one can see what your reading you wont regret it.
and you WILL want more.
Happy reading!
Helpful Score: 1
Whenever a book is this heavily hyped, I often expect to be somewhat disappointed. A friend of mine observed that I can't stand horror movies, so why did I want to read this book about vampires?
Well, Anne Rice, move over! Not only is this a well-crafted debut novel, it is a superb love story with an emphasis on suspense but certainly no gratuitous gore. It would work as simply an inter-racial love story on so many levels.
I was expecting some light reading and what I got was a page turner that had me laughing some and sobbing more. This book gripped me until I found I could not put it down and go to bed, and it was finished in the early morning. Anything read in a single sitting is a tribute to the author's craft.
Few series become annual re-reads for me--LOTR, Outlander, Harry Potter, and now, the Twilight series. New Dawn, here I come!
Well, Anne Rice, move over! Not only is this a well-crafted debut novel, it is a superb love story with an emphasis on suspense but certainly no gratuitous gore. It would work as simply an inter-racial love story on so many levels.
I was expecting some light reading and what I got was a page turner that had me laughing some and sobbing more. This book gripped me until I found I could not put it down and go to bed, and it was finished in the early morning. Anything read in a single sitting is a tribute to the author's craft.
Few series become annual re-reads for me--LOTR, Outlander, Harry Potter, and now, the Twilight series. New Dawn, here I come!
Helpful Score: 1
This is a truly FANTASTIC story! I immediately fell in love with MOST of the characters. Their truth in emotion and their internal conflict was really very believable and identifiable to me. I can't wait to read the rest of the series
First in series. I have read all three and none of them disapointed me! I would read them all again.
Helpful Score: 1
I purchased this book for my pre-teen daughter, and read it with her to encourage her to read more. I must say that for the crowd it is aimed at, this book is probably right on the money. However, if you are an adult, there will likely be FAR too much teenage angst. By the end of this first book, I wanted to end Bella, simply because I couldn't take any more "woe is me." I did grit my teeth and finish the entire series (the things we will do for our children), but I agree with other reviewers that the characters seem a bit one-dimensional. My daughter is still half-heartedly reading the series, but she wasn't particularly enamored of Bella's whininess, either. If you are an adult looking for a "fluff" book that includes vampires, the Charlaine Harris series is far better, in my opinion.
Helpful Score: 1
I was not sure what to expect about this book. I have heard so many mixed reviews. But this book was AMAZING! I read it in 3 days, I stayed up some nights until really late. I just could not put it down. I cannot wait to read New Moon!
Helpful Score: 1
Am i the only one on this planet that thought her writing was awfull? I liked the story, but i couldnt take the grammatical errors and just complete lack of proper english in some parts!
Helpful Score: 1
This book is more detailed both with character analysis and explanations than the movie. I liked the movie, but the book was more insightful.
Helpful Score: 1
It was actually adorable. I am a sucker for teen love stories (Which considering I married my high school sweetheart that makes perfect sense). It actually was pretty interesting and filled with descriptive dialogue, which is what I enjoy. I smiled many times while reading it.
Helpful Score: 1
Love, love, love this book. The best book I have ever read. The story is great, full of romance and Edward is hot...there's nothing more I could ask for. It grabs ahold of your imagination and stays with you. Read it you won't be disappointed. However, the books you read afterwards may not seem so great because you are constantly comparing them to this amazing book. Just my take on a great book.
Helpful Score: 1
All the negative reviews are focused on the fact that the writing is subpar. Truthfully, it is. But who cares?
It's a great story, captivating in its telling. Yes, Bella can get annoying. But the story works well for young adults and adults alike, and have gotten a lot of young girls interested in reading--what can be bad about that?
Let's not forget this book was written for entertainment, not to be scrutinized by literary critics.
It's a great story, captivating in its telling. Yes, Bella can get annoying. But the story works well for young adults and adults alike, and have gotten a lot of young girls interested in reading--what can be bad about that?
Let's not forget this book was written for entertainment, not to be scrutinized by literary critics.
Helpful Score: 1
Twilight is deeply engrossing and a very, very quick read. I loved it and already have recommended it to two people!
Helpful Score: 1
Yes, this book is WAY overhyped. Yes, it's got teen girls (and some grown women!) swooning and screaming and fainting. But the actual book itself is something you might not want to pass up, after all. It presents a unique take on the age-old vampire tale, and throws in a lot of forbidden love, angst, and some suspenseful action to round things out. It's extremely easy to read and is, honestly, in no way literary, but it's at the same time much better than romance-novel and chick-lit trash you can find everywhere nowadays. Pick it up if you're in any way interested. It's light reading with a genuinely interesting premise. Be warned, however: if you get into the story, and continue reading on through the next books in the series, the main character (Bella Swan) really does become almost an unbearable idiot several times. It's annoying, and she as a character is in no way a feminist, but other than that, enjoy!
Helpful Score: 1
What an awful book. I just don't understand why so many people love these books so much. writing is crappy, the story is slow and lame. And Mrs. Meyer does not portray a strong, smart or intriguing woman through her character Bella. Pure, un-enjoyable crap.
I wanted to read this book to see what all the hype was about. I think I'm probably one of the last people to read this book, I was also surprised to see over 1800 reviews at amazon.com. It's in first person, the only other books that I have read that was in first person were Sugar Daddy and Blue Eyed Devil. I felt like I was reading the diary of a seventeen year old. The bond between Bella and Edward is wonderfully written. The writer truly gets across that Bella is more mature than she really is and that Edward is really older than he is. I am immediately starting New Moon, book #2 and can't wait for book #4, Breaking Dawn to come out on August 2nd and the movie to come out December 12th.
Helpful Score: 1
I could not enjoy this book, though I really wanted to based upon a friend's recommendation. The main character, Bella Swan, is just plain unlikable and dull. She's a morose, painfully (for the reader) self-absorbed teenager who's main attraction to Edward the vampire is based upon her lust and admiration for his incredible looks and marble-like (in feel as well as look) body. Oh, and he saved her from being squished by a van, but I kind of wished he hadn't after the zillionth reference Bella made to his gorgeous good looks. Edward as a character is defined by being moody and not much else, which is not surprising since his character's sole purpose seems to be to make Bella swoon, occasionally save her life and constanty tell her he's not good for her. While teenage girls may identify with Bella, I just wanted to slap her and tell her to stop obsessing over a dead guy! If you want romance, read anything by Jane Austen instead; you'll get much more out of it.
Helpful Score: 1
Its an amazing book I got hooked it all of the series!
Helpful Score: 1
I just wanna say WOW, love love this book and im sure the rest will hold up to the first. Stephenie Meyer is going to be around for a long time.
I love this book! I can read it over and over and over and it never gets old!
Helpful Score: 1
I picked this book up today after it arrived last week as something of an afterthought. I got it and said - really? Huh. I don't remember having it on my wishlist...Well I picked up Twilight at about 1pm, and I just finished it about an hour ago. The story definitely drew me in. While I admit the characters were somewhat one dimensional and Edward constantly having to save Bella did drive me a little nuts about halfway through the novel, this was a promising start to the series, and I can't wait to start the next one.
Helpful Score: 1
What a great book! I have never read a vampire book before and was a little skeptical. I really enjoyed this book and am anxiously excited to read the next 3 books.
Helpful Score: 1
At first I thought that the subject matter was going to be a little too young for me. Since Im 33 and the characters are in high school I didnt think I would like it. I was wrong. By the time I reached the 4th chapter I was hooked. This book is so well written that you feel like Bella could be you or your friend. Stephanie Meyer makes vampires seem completely realistic and normal. All the books in this series keep you reading obsessively. So many people I know who are reading it are in love with Edward Cullen dispite the fact that hes only 17. Awesome book. You absolutely must read it. Melanie
Helpful Score: 1
I am completely surprised at how many reviews I have read, and conversations I have had with people who said that this book lacked "good writing", and character development. However, I am like the many thousands of people who enjoyed this book so much that I went on to read all of the other books in Meyer's series.
I have always loved to read, and I teach reading at a K-8 school. I read lots of books! I read books that have been written from Kindergarten to Young Adult enjoyment and reading level. My opinion is that this book as well as the other 3 in the series were not written for any other reason than to be entertaining: fantasies that young readers would enjoy because they could relate to the characters in the stories. As a 61 year old teacher, mother and grandmother to 5 girls, I read these books with young adults in mind. The girls at my school love these books, as does my 15 year old granddaughter! They READ them. They are not texting on their phones, or listening to music or playing computer games! Many of them have branched out to read other books by other authors.
While I read these books as part of my work, I found these books delightful, entertaining, and enjoyed them immensely! And as I said, I am not a teenage girl!
I have always loved to read, and I teach reading at a K-8 school. I read lots of books! I read books that have been written from Kindergarten to Young Adult enjoyment and reading level. My opinion is that this book as well as the other 3 in the series were not written for any other reason than to be entertaining: fantasies that young readers would enjoy because they could relate to the characters in the stories. As a 61 year old teacher, mother and grandmother to 5 girls, I read these books with young adults in mind. The girls at my school love these books, as does my 15 year old granddaughter! They READ them. They are not texting on their phones, or listening to music or playing computer games! Many of them have branched out to read other books by other authors.
While I read these books as part of my work, I found these books delightful, entertaining, and enjoyed them immensely! And as I said, I am not a teenage girl!
Helpful Score: 1
Very good book! It's one of those books that sucks you in and keeps you reading. This is the first vampire book that I have read and now I am having the urge to read the rest of this series.
Helpful Score: 1
Very good book. I read it to find out what all the teenage girls were "buzzing about." The plot will get you hooked enough to want to read more in the series.
Helpful Score: 1
I happened to see an interview with the author, and she was talking about how she wrote the book; that inclined me to want to review the book, so on my next trip to the book store I picked it up and read the last page (I often do so, because if the last page is intriguing then so will the rest of the book be).
After I bought it, I waited one day and finished it in three (only because I had to sleep). This book is great, I absolutely love the way Stephanie (the author) wrote it, she does an excellent job as describing the scenery without using too many large words.
I couldn't put the book down and can't wait to receive book 2 in the saga (I may have to go buy it, if it doesn't pop up on here soon ;)
After I bought it, I waited one day and finished it in three (only because I had to sleep). This book is great, I absolutely love the way Stephanie (the author) wrote it, she does an excellent job as describing the scenery without using too many large words.
I couldn't put the book down and can't wait to receive book 2 in the saga (I may have to go buy it, if it doesn't pop up on here soon ;)
Helpful Score: 1
Boring. Couldn't get into the book. Never finished it, never will. Again, boring!
Helpful Score: 1
Before I got this book, I had heard many great reviews. I was afraid I was going to be too old for the book and was very hesitant to read it. Once I picked it up, I could not put it down!!! I only stopped reading to go to work, eat and sleep. I can't wait to finish the rest of the series!!!
Helpful Score: 1
My wife wanted me to read this book...so I did. I finally finished it and overall was not that impressed. I saw the movie and decided I should have just watched it in the first place. Though I did know more about what was going on the charterer's heads as well as surrounding circumstances, it didn't really change things that much. It's pretty much a girl in love with a heroic boy. The greatest spin is Meyer's unique definition of who and what a vampire is. She casts a light on them, as if to say they're not all bad and that they can be beautiful and amazing immortals. Interesting concept I suppose, but I have no idea if that's original to her. Regardless, vampires are so hot right now...and for some reason well beyond my understanding.
Helpful Score: 1
This book was fantastic. I was putting off reading it because I had heard it was YA, but, wow. It was great. I am looking forward to reading the sequels.
Helpful Score: 1
I gave into the hype of this book... had to see what it was all about. And I am quite pleased that I did.
I have to say that the Bella and Edward are so real to me. It is a rare book that makes it's characters so real. I literally expect them to walk into the room. I feel like I know them personally. I am quite attached.
If you like to read books that make the characters really come to life.... start reading this series.
Fast-paced, easy reading.
I have to say that the Bella and Edward are so real to me. It is a rare book that makes it's characters so real. I literally expect them to walk into the room. I feel like I know them personally. I am quite attached.
If you like to read books that make the characters really come to life.... start reading this series.
Fast-paced, easy reading.
Helpful Score: 1
These books are amazing. The writing style is lacking but the story is just fantastic. It is defiantly a love story for the ages. I burned through this book very quickly and really REALLY liked it. It was defiantly one that can stand alone and still be beautiful.
Go
Read
it!~
Go
Read
it!~
Helpful Score: 1
This book lives up to the hype for the young adult audience and those of us not so young. It is an easy read I couldn't put down. I fell in love with the characters right away and loved the journey they all take. This is the first in the vampire series and I need to start the next one right away. I highly recommend this book to those who would enjoy a slightly "fairytalish" vampire series with the pains of coming of age, love, fear, all mixed into the strugle of good and evil.
Helpful Score: 1
I finally read this one after hearing so many great things about it. Don't be put off if you don't like vampire stories, I don't either but this is still a great read. The characters stay in my mind unlike some of the ones from my favorite novels do. With the movie coming out I thought I would read it first so that if my husband dragged me to yet another vampire movie I would be ready. Now I am looking forward to it.
Helpful Score: 1
The Twilight Saga is Great. I kept finding book 2 (New Moon) and 3 (Eclipse) in the stores and finally decided to purchase all 4 books at the same time, I read Twilight in a couple days, only because I had to work, eat and sleep. I could not put it down. The books are engaging, I do suggest that you have the next book already purchased because once you start you want to keep going, I am on the 4th book and I really enjoy the way she takes you from one book to the next without backtracking all the little details of the previous book.
I highly recommend this book, it is not the typical vampire story and it is not only for teens.
I highly recommend this book, it is not the typical vampire story and it is not only for teens.
Helpful Score: 1
Since I am not a teenager I was skeptical that I would ever read this book. It took the referral of another non-teenager to convince me to investigate. I am so glad, what an enjoyable piece of storytelling this is. Jump in, join the crowd, this is plane old entertaining lit. Take it on a vacation, you will be through it and charmed in two or three days.
I saw the movie first, it didn't ruin it, though the movie really does give you 95 percent of all there is. The book doesn't embellish the thought processes of the characters as much as I had hoped. In that way the story isn't as 'toothsome' as it could have been.
I saw the movie first, it didn't ruin it, though the movie really does give you 95 percent of all there is. The book doesn't embellish the thought processes of the characters as much as I had hoped. In that way the story isn't as 'toothsome' as it could have been.
fantastic! So easy to fall into this amazing world. These books just get better one after the other! I would (and have) recommended these books to ANYONE! I've now got my best friend, neighbor, and her 11 year old daughter reading this one! I just finished the 4th one and can't begin to say how sad I am that there are no more.
Helpful Score: 1
I Really enjoyed the series. I loved that it took place in Forks, Washington. I am from Tacoma and I had some family friends who lived in Forks. I love the series. However I cannot say I liked the interaction the characters had with each other. It did seem flat and maybe a bit rushed. Bella hardly knew Edward and the first time they actually hang out together she is telling him that she can't live without him. It's also painful to watch Edward act more like he is her parent than her Boyfriend. It only got worse as the series went on. I recommend it to everyone to read, but don't expect anything amazing in the writing or characters. Honestly the only ones I truly enjoyed reading about was Alice and Jacob.
Helpful Score: 1
I have read many Vampire books by Anne Rice, Laurell K. Hamilton, and others, but this has to be my favorite! A great vampire love story and it will have you turning the pages.
Helpful Score: 1
The small town of Forks has a new resident who just moved into her father's house: Isabella (Bella) Swan despises small town living and therefore doesn't expect much from her new school either. To her surprise she finds herself to be the main attraction especially for the boys.
It is there that she meets the strange but charismatic Edward Cullen.
With crossing ways the two teenagers fall in love with the difficulties just beginning.
Edward is a vampire, he lives together with his vampire family who don't feed on human blood but rather hunt animals. To establish a relationship the Cullen family, who is mostly glad that Edward found someone even if it is a human, invite Bella to a family vampire baseball game where the group meets three other "non-civilized" vampires.
One of them is James, a tracker, who picks up on Bella's scent immediately. She is in danger and has to flee town - fast.
-
I finally gave in to begin reading the Twilight series and I'm surprised that I flew through the 500+ pages and really enjoyed them.
Twilight is a book for teenagers mostly so the plot seems to be justifiable dull for the experienced reader.
Of course at some point or another I had my thoughts about bell's main attributes are being naive and just clumsy with her feet and Edward being a little prick who gets a bit creepy in how to handle his first love and feelings.
I wouldn't wish my daughter a boyfriend like this or my son a girlfriend like Bella. The development of the relationship and the addiction of the main character Bella do have something irritating whilst Edward is knight in shiny armor never fails.
Sort of a modern fairy tale with some disturbing points.
Nevertheless I found myself reading page after page which must mean that overthinking, which I didn't while reading and won't continue after finishing this review, can be just too much.
Instead lets just enjoy a not too overexciting novel, aimed at teenagers and not think about the messages hidden in it. Were there any ?
It is there that she meets the strange but charismatic Edward Cullen.
With crossing ways the two teenagers fall in love with the difficulties just beginning.
Edward is a vampire, he lives together with his vampire family who don't feed on human blood but rather hunt animals. To establish a relationship the Cullen family, who is mostly glad that Edward found someone even if it is a human, invite Bella to a family vampire baseball game where the group meets three other "non-civilized" vampires.
One of them is James, a tracker, who picks up on Bella's scent immediately. She is in danger and has to flee town - fast.
-
I finally gave in to begin reading the Twilight series and I'm surprised that I flew through the 500+ pages and really enjoyed them.
Twilight is a book for teenagers mostly so the plot seems to be justifiable dull for the experienced reader.
Of course at some point or another I had my thoughts about bell's main attributes are being naive and just clumsy with her feet and Edward being a little prick who gets a bit creepy in how to handle his first love and feelings.
I wouldn't wish my daughter a boyfriend like this or my son a girlfriend like Bella. The development of the relationship and the addiction of the main character Bella do have something irritating whilst Edward is knight in shiny armor never fails.
Sort of a modern fairy tale with some disturbing points.
Nevertheless I found myself reading page after page which must mean that overthinking, which I didn't while reading and won't continue after finishing this review, can be just too much.
Instead lets just enjoy a not too overexciting novel, aimed at teenagers and not think about the messages hidden in it. Were there any ?
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed Twilight, but it suffered from comparisons for me. It just doesn't compare well to so many other books I've read over the years with similar premises. Still, I'm glad I read the book and will probably pick up the sequels. I really, really recommend the following books that reading Twilight reminded me about.
Twilighters - Try these books too!
Interview with a Vampire - Anne Rice (really get into the nitty gritty of vampire psychology)
Dead Until Dark - Charlaine Harris (fall in love with two vampires and a werewolf while laughing)
The Silver Metal Lover - Tanith Lee (bring your box of tissues and fall in love with Silver, a beautiful robot)
Outlander - Diana Gabaldon (another impossible love story involving time travel and a feisty Highlander)
Anne of Green Gables - L.M. Montgommery (for a story of a girl full of life and imagination)
The Thorn Birds - Colleen McCollough (it's a bad idea to fall in love with a priest)
One for the Money - Janet Evanovich (fall in love, get in trouble, get out of trouble and laugh)
Gone With the Wind - Margaret Mitchell (a life and love story beyond compare)
Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
Twilighters - Try these books too!
Interview with a Vampire - Anne Rice (really get into the nitty gritty of vampire psychology)
Dead Until Dark - Charlaine Harris (fall in love with two vampires and a werewolf while laughing)
The Silver Metal Lover - Tanith Lee (bring your box of tissues and fall in love with Silver, a beautiful robot)
Outlander - Diana Gabaldon (another impossible love story involving time travel and a feisty Highlander)
Anne of Green Gables - L.M. Montgommery (for a story of a girl full of life and imagination)
The Thorn Birds - Colleen McCollough (it's a bad idea to fall in love with a priest)
One for the Money - Janet Evanovich (fall in love, get in trouble, get out of trouble and laugh)
Gone With the Wind - Margaret Mitchell (a life and love story beyond compare)
Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
Helpful Score: 1
I waited and held off because I didn't want to be one of those Twilight people (ok, Twilight adults), but this book was very good and worth giving in for!
Helpful Score: 1
My sister called me and raved about this new author and her book called Twilight - she said I ABSOLUTELY had to get it. I went to the bookstore and not sure where to look for it, other than in the "teen area" (as it's considered a young adult book), as I wandered into the teen area, a young girl, about 14 or so asked me what I was looking for. I told her and she said, "Oh, you're going to LOVE it, it's better than Harry Potter!".
Well, whomever that young lady is, she was so right! I'm a 45 year old woman and even I'm having dreams of Edward at night! The writing so wraps around your heart, that you just love these characters as if they were real people in your life. To me that's the sign of an extraordinary writer and I believe Stephenie Meyer is the real deal! Enjoy!
Well, whomever that young lady is, she was so right! I'm a 45 year old woman and even I'm having dreams of Edward at night! The writing so wraps around your heart, that you just love these characters as if they were real people in your life. To me that's the sign of an extraordinary writer and I believe Stephenie Meyer is the real deal! Enjoy!
Helpful Score: 1
This book was ok, very cheesy and gets slow in a lot of parts.
Helpful Score: 1
I am usually not into Vampire Stories, but read this after many people suggested it. I couldn't put it down and finished it in 3 evenings.
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first book in a wonderful series. I don't care what they say about this being a teen girl book, I'm far from being a teen but I really enjoyed this whole series. I have actually started reading them all again. Twilight is the hook, after you've read this one, you HAVE to read the others. I'm looking forward to Stephenie Meyer's next in the series!
Helpful Score: 1
This book was awesome! Couldn't put it down, I read it from cover to cover in one day and ran out to buy the next one. An interesting twist on the Vampire legend...a must read if you like Vampire stories!
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book-and I'm a 37yr old mom! Don't think this book is just for teens! (Although if this was out when I was a teenager I would have been an obsessed fan!) I wanted it to keep going (which is why I ordered the other books in the series and i'm impatiently waiting for them to arrive). In the back of the book, the author has "questions for discussion"-don't skip this! She said each book in the series is loosely based on a piece of classic literature-"Twilight" being based on "Pride and Prejudice". When you compare and contrast Bella and Edward with Elizabeth Bennett and Mr Darcy, there are so many similarities, but I never would have picked that up while reading the book. Also, as others have said, you must read the book before you see the movie. If you've already seen the movie, read the book anyway-you won't regret it. There's so much that's not covered regarding the reasons Edward feels he must stay away from Bella, even though he's in love with her and has "waited so long for her".
Helpful Score: 1
With all the hype about this series, I really thought I'd hate it. I was surprised to actually like this book. I won't say that I "loved" it, but it's a cute YA book and I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next books. Although, to be honest, the thought of hugging or being kissed by someone as "cold as marble" doesn't appeal to me. Kinda makes me look for my blankie. ;)
Nah, cute series. Pretty well lived up to all the hype.
I'm trying to find info on the movie without finding info though... I remember someone saying that the movie goes beyond the first book, right? I like to read the book(s) before I watch the movie, so I guess I'd better get a move on!
Nah, cute series. Pretty well lived up to all the hype.
I'm trying to find info on the movie without finding info though... I remember someone saying that the movie goes beyond the first book, right? I like to read the book(s) before I watch the movie, so I guess I'd better get a move on!
Helpful Score: 1
I have to say, Stephanie Meyer isn't the best writer in the world, but something about the story of Bella and Edward is gripping. It's very different than anything I've read before and you will want to keep reading to find out what happens next! I read all four books within a couple of weeks and I'm looking forward to reading them again, possibly a little more slowly next time to grasp more details! I'm really surprised about the negative reviews, particularly those that state the characters are not well developed, etc. Keep in mind, this is a book written for teens! Anyway, this is a wonderful series if you're just looking for a good story and something a little different than the norm.
Helpful Score: 1
Could not put the book down -- and it is quite long! Main character Bella is a complex character, not unlike many teen girls I know. And her love interest, Edward, is not quite what you would expect in a vampire tale. Very engrossing. Loved it.
Helpful Score: 1
I never picked this book up because it was marked as young adult, but after hearing all the reviews & hearing that it was going to be made into a movie, I added it to my wish list. This book was great. The love story between Edward & Bella kept you wanting to know more. I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
Helpful Score: 1
This was such a good book, it was so hard to put it down. Cant wait to read the rest of them.
Helpful Score: 1
I was surprised that this was good. It certainly didn't provoke deep thought on human existence or anything, but it was an interesting light read. I liked it enough to go on to the second book.
Helpful Score: 1
When i got this book, i wasnt sure what to expect. I read it and liked it very much. Although the innocence of it is a little far fetched given todays standards, i still thought it was well written and captivating.
Helpful Score: 1
One of the best books I have ever read hands down. A great new take on vampires and I absolutely loved it. I literally could not put it down. I highly recommend it to everyone that likes paranormal romance and it is totally okay for young readers since it is a YA. :)
Helpful Score: 1
Wow! Not really a paranormal reader, Im beginning to see why readers are drawn into these mysteries. Different authors take license to create their characters with jest, humor, honor, and many of the emotions that draw us to REAL people. I truly love Stephenies characters! They have rich personalities and the author delights in making them come to life, so to speak! This is a must read, and a great romance. I practically devoured the book and immediately picked up book two. I guess Im hooked!
Helpful Score: 1
I watched the movie before reading the book. Although I ruined some of the book for myself, I still enjoyed the novel immensely. I was impressed with Meyer's ability to keep me interested in a novel I had spoiled for myself.
Helpful Score: 1
This book was better than I expected! I saw the movie first so I wasn't sure the book could be better than the movie,but it was!!!It goes into more details so you understand the characters better(how they came to be) I would highly recommend this book.
Helpful Score: 1
I read this book because so many women my age (over 40) said that they enjoyed it as well as their daughters. I would have loved this book if I was 12-18 yrs old- so that is why I rated it so high. If I had a daughter that age I would buy it for her - practically no sex and minimal predictible violence, but less than most books. It brought back a little teenage, first love nostalgia but it was just too Young Adult for me (and I am not a literature snob by any means).
Helpful Score: 1
I wanted to read this after I saw the movie & was surprised to like it at all, let alone a lot. I laughed. I cried. I want to read the next one. Fun!
Helpful Score: 1
My Rating: A+
This was such an easy read! I enjoyed this book so much. I loved how the characters fit together so well, Edward and Bella weren't the only ones that you could just tell were made for each other. The author writes in a way that you can't help but love every character. Even the minor characters were important. She writes description in such a way that everything just flows into your mind and the dialog is quick and witty at times and devastatingly emotional at others.
The love was so real, I ached when they did and gushed when they did.
Sometimes I struggled a bit with decisions made by the characters but other than that this is an A plus read. I have every intention of reading the rest of these and as quickly as possible. I am completely on the wagon with this author.
This was such an easy read! I enjoyed this book so much. I loved how the characters fit together so well, Edward and Bella weren't the only ones that you could just tell were made for each other. The author writes in a way that you can't help but love every character. Even the minor characters were important. She writes description in such a way that everything just flows into your mind and the dialog is quick and witty at times and devastatingly emotional at others.
The love was so real, I ached when they did and gushed when they did.
Sometimes I struggled a bit with decisions made by the characters but other than that this is an A plus read. I have every intention of reading the rest of these and as quickly as possible. I am completely on the wagon with this author.
I love this book. I'm not into blood and guts, so vampires and werewolves typically don't do it for me. I do love a good occult fantasy, but I usually go for tongue in cheek stories like the Witch series by Annette Blair, or the Immortally Sexy series by Stephanie Rowe. But this book was more than just a tale of horror. For me it was like Romeo and Juliet, the story of two unlikely lovers denying their radically different worlds to exist in their own cozy haven.
It's also a story of patience and compromise. When they first meet, Edward literally can't stand to be near Bella. And her attraction to his breath leaves her completely vulnerable. They are able to overcome the physical obstacles, and by the end of the book they can share a kiss without bloodshed, and Edward almost never holds his nose anymore!
But they have yet to overcome their emotional obstacles. On to book 2...
It's also a story of patience and compromise. When they first meet, Edward literally can't stand to be near Bella. And her attraction to his breath leaves her completely vulnerable. They are able to overcome the physical obstacles, and by the end of the book they can share a kiss without bloodshed, and Edward almost never holds his nose anymore!
But they have yet to overcome their emotional obstacles. On to book 2...
Helpful Score: 1
I am 30 years old and found this series to be incredibly enjoyable. In my opinion this is a great read for any age, not just teens. The characters are original, and the writing style is great. Very talented author, very amazing series.
Helpful Score: 1
This book has been hyped as both a great book and an awful book. It is neither of these things. It is a teen supernatural romance, not terribly well written, but with some potential in the backstory material that is not, sadly, realized fully. The mythology of the book is not well-developed because all the focus is on the romance, a term I use loosely. The writing is such that it may pull you in on the first reading, but subsequent readings become dull and grating. If you're looking for a fairly mindless supernatural romance, look no further. If you're looking for a decent fantasy or . . . well, really a decent anything, look somewhere else.
Helpful Score: 1
Good book... has normal teenager hang ups.
Helpful Score: 1
This may be a "teen" book, but as a 30 something woman who just spent the past two weeks reading all four books in this series - would highly recommend to anyone. It was a great "escape" read!
Helpful Score: 1
I love this book. It's not one I read over and over, because to me, while it is well written the plot is mush. Bella is an insecure teenager who is very average. She has never lived out side of her own comfort zone, and when she moves to forks with her dad, she finds her self in a ware wind of drama she had never before experienced. Edward the vampire is anything but average and to Edward, Bella is the epitome of the word so they are drawn to each other, by the simple truth that opposites attract, and each are what the other desperately desires to be. Bella wants more self esteem, Edward wants to find some of his lost humanity. It's a sweet mind relaxing love story. I love it, My mom loves it, and my 12 year old sister loves it. I would not recommend letting children under the age of fourteen read all four books with out parent's reading it first and deciding if your child is mature enough to handle some of the issues mentioned in the books.
Helpful Score: 1
I love these books the like a drug you cant put down because you want to know what happens.
Helpful Score: 1
I'm reading the series because I have been pressured intensly to do so, but have also been very curious about it since they first came out. I found it good enough to want to continue with the rest, but not exactly life changing. I kindof find Bella's adoration of Edward to be ... I don't know, maybe a little creepy? Obsessive? I get that he's hot but past that... what were his qualities thus far and would it really be nice to cuddle with a rock? And I don't get the explanation for his infatuation with her, but I guess that is part of the pull of the story. It is fiction afterall!
Helpful Score: 1
I finally decided it was time to try reading this series...while it was an easy read, I'm not clear what all the hype is about. I think it is well written but the story can be slow and overloaded with details that translate into me getting bored. I'm going to keep going with the series as people say the books get better but if this one is any indication, I may be better off reaching for a different book/series.
Helpful Score: 1
Just decided to take the plunge and start the Twilight books. It was a fast read being at the Teen level of reading. I enjoyed it. Nothing epic. Fun book but drags on a bit too much at the end with Bella wanting to become a vampire too and with her constant moodiness. Worth the short time it takes to finish. Nice beach read!
Helpful Score: 1
This series is addictive. It will take all of your time. I loved it!!
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book. i thought it would be just a , blah...yeah-it-kept-me-entertained book but i fell in love with it. it really made me feel like a highschooler again, madly in love.
im surprised at all the bad reviews about the characters and the plot. yes the romance and relationship is completely unrealistic, but that is the MAGIC of it! magic doesnt go by our rules or how we think things are supposed to happen. thats the point!
although i must admit, i would not encourage this book for IMPRESSIONABLE young girls.
all in all, a captivating book.
im surprised at all the bad reviews about the characters and the plot. yes the romance and relationship is completely unrealistic, but that is the MAGIC of it! magic doesnt go by our rules or how we think things are supposed to happen. thats the point!
although i must admit, i would not encourage this book for IMPRESSIONABLE young girls.
all in all, a captivating book.
Helpful Score: 1
This book has got to be one of the best books I have ever read! I found myself staying up until the early hours of the morning just so I could read one more chapter before I fell asleep. This book had great character development as well as an engaging plot. I found myself thinking about the book even when I wasnt reading it. I recommend this book to teens on up. If you like romance, suspence, or vampires this book will not disappoint! There is something for any kind of fan!
Helpful Score: 1
I read this book the very first time it came out in December 2005, and believe it or not, just read it about four times since then. It is a wonderful book with well written prose and very wonderful characters that are the result of the very real and inner fantasy. Also, a real insight into the teenage mind, surprisingly.
Helpful Score: 1
The book was pretty good, the characters well written, except Bella, she's like the old fairy tales how the knight has to save the princess all the time.... ALL the time. Yeah he was the "lion" and she was the "lamb" but geesh.
Gives a new outlook on vampires, the Cullens didnt have Bella for dinner when she came to meet the family except to try to attempt to make her something for dinner. They protected her even in her stupidity in a few of the parts where of course the "knight" had to come rescue her AGAIN.
You'll also be picking out whats diffrent in the book then the movie. Even so, I've got all the books so far and the movie too. I agree with another poster, I dont know what he sees in Bella, maybe cause of innocence or something.
I enjoyed the movie as it wasnt a slaughthouse like most vampire movies go. sexual tention was there but not bad though their suppose to be very allureing to make people offer themselves.
Gives a new outlook on vampires, the Cullens didnt have Bella for dinner when she came to meet the family except to try to attempt to make her something for dinner. They protected her even in her stupidity in a few of the parts where of course the "knight" had to come rescue her AGAIN.
You'll also be picking out whats diffrent in the book then the movie. Even so, I've got all the books so far and the movie too. I agree with another poster, I dont know what he sees in Bella, maybe cause of innocence or something.
I enjoyed the movie as it wasnt a slaughthouse like most vampire movies go. sexual tention was there but not bad though their suppose to be very allureing to make people offer themselves.
Helpful Score: 1
This book is just amazing! Impossible to put down and a quick read, what an adventure.
Helpful Score: 1
This is an AMAZING book. Stephenie Meyer is an excellent writter, she flows amazingly and is very easy to read. This book has me FURIOUSLY turning the pages wanting more and more. This is one of those books that you become so engrossed in, that you forget that what you are reading is actually a book, and not reality. I would rate this book well series, right up there with Harry Potter. I would suggest this book to teenager and adult a-like. I finished this book on January 4th and today it is January 7th and I'm just starting the 3rd book of the series. I literally can NOT put these books down. She will capture you attention from the first sentence you read and you want to read read read and never stop. I do believe I have fallen in love with Edward myself, and many characteristics in Bella I find in myself. Meyer's writing makes you SEE what the characters SEE and truly FEEL what the characters are FEELING. After all, isn't that what good writing is supposed to do?
Helpful Score: 1
I have to tell you I hadn't even heard of these books until I seen the movie coming to theaters. I thought it was some "stupid" teen movie and book series and never gave it a second thought...UNTIL a friend of mine (an adult friend) recommended I read twilight. Okay, so I read it in 2 days and I have 3 kids!!
Yes, it is make believe and romance that will never happen in the real world but it took me back to my childhood. I remembered that feeling of "1st love" and I enjoyed every minute of every book in the series. I am REALLY surprised at all the bad reviews on here because I have heard nothing but good about these books.
I like the fact there is nothing of sexual nature in these books so it really does make a good read for a teenager.
Yes, it is make believe and romance that will never happen in the real world but it took me back to my childhood. I remembered that feeling of "1st love" and I enjoyed every minute of every book in the series. I am REALLY surprised at all the bad reviews on here because I have heard nothing but good about these books.
I like the fact there is nothing of sexual nature in these books so it really does make a good read for a teenager.
Helpful Score: 1
I could not put this book down. The author is a great storyteller and creates memorable characters. I am already looking forward to reading the second in this trilogy.
Helpful Score: 1
I just finished this book and I had read many reviews both good and bad.
I found this story refreshing and very sweet, I am now really looking forward to reading the rest of this series and at the same time dreading to see it end.
I found this story refreshing and very sweet, I am now really looking forward to reading the rest of this series and at the same time dreading to see it end.
Helpful Score: 1
I am a 50 something college professor and didn't read this until a co-worker, my tech person, highly recommended it. I would say it's for any age:)
Helpful Score: 1
I had heard many poitive AND negative things about this series, and I had absolutely no interest in seeing the movie, but seeing as how I like to sometimes go out on a limb and read something new, I decided to get every book in the series and begin reading once I had gotten through all of the books I was dying to read first.
Well, I can honestly say that once I began reading Twilight, I WAS HOOKED! The story was fascinting in it's simplicity and I could picture every one of MY OWN details in my head as I continued chapter after chapter. The relationship between Bella and Edward may have made no sense to some, but to me it signified the magic of the feeling of absolute true love. As far as Bella's character, Stephenie Meyer made her HUMAN, her pessimism, her doubts and fears, all human emotions and they reflect the actual feelings of a teenage girl. After I finished Twilight in only hours I immediately moved on to the next and comtinued that way until I had read all 4 books, AND I have pre-ordered the movie which will ship tp me the day it comes out. I recommend this series highly!!!!!!!
Well, I can honestly say that once I began reading Twilight, I WAS HOOKED! The story was fascinting in it's simplicity and I could picture every one of MY OWN details in my head as I continued chapter after chapter. The relationship between Bella and Edward may have made no sense to some, but to me it signified the magic of the feeling of absolute true love. As far as Bella's character, Stephenie Meyer made her HUMAN, her pessimism, her doubts and fears, all human emotions and they reflect the actual feelings of a teenage girl. After I finished Twilight in only hours I immediately moved on to the next and comtinued that way until I had read all 4 books, AND I have pre-ordered the movie which will ship tp me the day it comes out. I recommend this series highly!!!!!!!
Helpful Score: 1
Love this book and the series, can't wait to read some more by Stephenie!!!
Excellent book. It takes a while to get really good but worth the read. Becomes a page turner near the end of the book.
Helpful Score: 1
When I first saw the Twilight series I thought it was never something I would enjoy reading in a million years. The whole vampire-thing is usually not my cup of tea. Boy was I wrong! I read the entire series in a little less than a week. I just could not put these books down. I was hooked from the very first chapter of Twilight. I would highly recommend these books to anyone- teen or adult.
Helpful Score: 1
Twilight was one of the best books i have ever read. Even though it is technically for youth females, my mother and my brother both loved this book. A must read for anyone.
Helpful Score: 1
I know that almost everyone nowdays is in love with this series but not me. Oh lord did I hate this book-it about bored me to tears. I had to FORCE myself to finish it. I cant stand the fact that Edward is SO broody-No make that moody,and he sparkles(WHAT KIND OF SELF-RESPECTING VAMPIRE SPARKLES????? COME ON!!!!) way too sappy for my tastes- I prefer stories with some more edge and a lot more BITE to them (pun completely intended);)
Helpful Score: 1
I bought this book, and the other 3 online the night after I saw the movie. The story to me isn't really about vampires, but the love between the two.. having to overcome their differences and stay together when they should be enemies.. well, predator/prey... I read this book without putting it down once, in just a day. And am not lying when I say that this series is the best I have ever read.
Helpful Score: 1
#1 - This is a young adult book, and that is very clear as it's being read. #2 - For such a lengthy novel, the story was very simplistic - I needed more detail, something more complex . #3 - I wasn't compelled to read the next book.
I do have to say that although this is a long book, it is a quick read. Might be a good book for the beach. The story gets better after the second half of the book, if you can wait that long. But still, I don't understand all the hype surrounding it. Obviously, I'm in the minority.
I do have to say that although this is a long book, it is a quick read. Might be a good book for the beach. The story gets better after the second half of the book, if you can wait that long. But still, I don't understand all the hype surrounding it. Obviously, I'm in the minority.
Helpful Score: 1
Do not shy away from this book just because it is YA. The central characters Bella and Edward's love transcends age. You will fall in love with this saga within minutes...pages. Meyer's writing is so easy to read, the only problem I found with Twilight was that I read it too quickly. I highly recommend.
Helpful Score: 1
Would you fall in love w/ a vampire? I sure as hell did!!!!!!!!!! Stephenie Meyer has spun a beautiful tale of high school, change, romance and coming from different backgrounds. A great read- I'm not a fast reader- but savored this book for about two weeks, finished it closed the cover turned it over and read it again!
Helpful Score: 1
While this novel is a tad too long for the subject matter and extremely slow-moving in parts, the story itself, the relationships, and the ending (wide open for sequels) is ultimately satisfying. The author manages to combine high school drama, a courtly love story, macabre monsters and the interest humans have in supernatural lives, and a great hunt/chase into one seamless novel.
While it's aimed at teenagers, and obviously addresses the highs and lows of romantic angst during puberty, it's also appealing for adults, especially those interested in twists on vampire myth and lore. Buffy fans, you won't be disappointed.
While it's aimed at teenagers, and obviously addresses the highs and lows of romantic angst during puberty, it's also appealing for adults, especially those interested in twists on vampire myth and lore. Buffy fans, you won't be disappointed.
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed this book so much so, that I have just purchased Book 2, "New Moon". I never had a dull moment and actually had some "laugh-out-loud" moments.
It's a good read.
It's a good read.
Helpful Score: 1
It took me a while to get into this book. Once I did, it was a fun read, but I definitely won't waste my time reading the series. I found Bella a little annoying and obsessive. The vampire stuff was kind of interesting and I am a vampire fan. Also, I would like to know if they turn Bella into a vampire, but not really enough to read the whole series.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book! The first book in the series Twilight was the best so far. I really enjoyed how New Moon began. The beginning middle and end were very well written. The story line was great! I love the anticipation of everything in these books. I don't like how Meyer uses alot of the same words alot like "grimaced - shuttered" and there are some other ones. That was the only thing in the book that I didn't like. Other than that the book was perfect and I'm very anxious to read the next two books in the series. These books are geared towards 10-12 year olds. I'm far from that age and I love the book. Everything is written with lots of color and inspiration! Everything is very visual to me and I feel like I'm right then in the story. I love it! Keep reading! Enjoy new authors and write reviews. Hugs, Heather
Helpful Score: 1
I very much enjoyed reading this first installment of her vampire / human love story by Stephenie Meyer.
It is a book written for the young adult, from such a person's point of view. I also found Ms. Meyer's different point of view of Vampires interesting and different from the standard definition. Overall, it's a sweet love story with a paranormal twist.
It is a book written for the young adult, from such a person's point of view. I also found Ms. Meyer's different point of view of Vampires interesting and different from the standard definition. Overall, it's a sweet love story with a paranormal twist.
This is one of the best books I have ever read. I have read the entire series seven times. I love it!!!
Helpful Score: 1
I love love love this series! This is a great book. It's a very fast read. I love vampires so I really enjoyed reading about Edward, although I wish the author had said what made Edward fall so head over heels for Bella. I didn't really understand that...
There is a nice balance between romance and action. Just enough of each.
It is a wonderful book!
There is a nice balance between romance and action. Just enough of each.
It is a wonderful book!
This is a great series and it starts real well in this book. Lets you experience the beginnings of that one special love and beyond.
A tame, easy read with a dissapointing climax. The characters wind up seeming one dementional or else acting in ways that really don't make sense. Not a book you have to think about much to understand, so good for reading once in the bathtub to relax, but that's about it.
Great Book
First couple of chapters were a little slow, but then could not put it down.
A guilty pleasure! A fast enjoyable read that I could not put down. The relationship between Edward and Bella gave me butterflies again, I highly recommend this book!
OK soooo I saw the movie before i heard about the books, and i wasn't really sure about it. I wasn't really into vampire stuff, i thought it was kind of weird. But i saw the movie and thought it was OK! :-) Then i went to the library and checked one of the books out, and it was amazing!!!! I think it is one of the best love stories!! I am a complete Twilight addict now!! :-) Most of the time girls read it but if your a guy and you want to read it Go for it!!!! This is truly an AMAZING book!
was surprised after the first 60 pages i was picking up speed and roaring through the subsequent chapters.
This is my least favorite of the series. The author spent so much time on scenery and character development that I got a little bored. It picked up in the end and Book 2 is amazing.
great series for young adult
I was surprise to find that I really enjoy this book. Look forward to reading the rest of her books.
I don't find this to be the best written book I have ever read, but I love the story and the way the characters interact. I think this is a great start to a great series.
book was OK. too much awkward teen romance for me, not my kind of book.
I love this book! I have read many reviews about how an older "young adult" shouldn't read this book because it's not for their age group! I say read it! If your 50 read it! If your 60 read it! Never be ashamed to open a book!
Especially as wonderful as the Twilight Saga's. Stephanie Meyer weaves a wonderful tale and it begs you to read the next book.
Especially as wonderful as the Twilight Saga's. Stephanie Meyer weaves a wonderful tale and it begs you to read the next book.
One of the worst books I have ever read. The writing is so bad I could hardly make it through. The theme of the book is so obvious as to be redundant. Stephanie Meyer clearly reflects her religion in the writing of her book, despite public statements to the contrary (The husband having complete control of his wife, as if she were his property). Try reading Dracula for an excellent vampire book...What kind of real vampire sparkles?!?!
Much better than the movie. Stephanie Meyer makes it easy to visualize the story as you read.
I made the mistake of watching the Twilight movie first and DIDN'T understand why there was such a devoted group of followers for it. I checked out Midnight Sun on Meyer's web-site and fell in love with Edward (it's Twilight from HIS perspective) and rushed out to buy this book. I read this in two days and flew through the series in 5. If you start with this book be prepared to "check out" for the week as reading this series is ALL you will be doing.
I have read this book so many times, I can't remember. I didn't read it until after I saw the movie. That was a bad idea, because it really affects the way you read the book. I thought this book was good, but the later books are better. Really must read it though, in order to really understand the next books and the movie, completely.
Twilight- Amazing book. Romance, action, vampires, 5 out of 5
Bella is too reliant on Edward. Their relationship leaves a little to be desired. Does Edward love Bella just for her blood, or is their something more between them? WE WILL NEVER KNOW.
I enjoyed this book while on a long flight. However I was amused more by the inner thoughts and actions of the kids Harry Potter's age more than I liked the inner thoughts of these kids (they're 17). The book entertained me on an international flight and was lightweight but I'm not sure I'd have enjoyed it as much in other context, like at home, with little spare time.
I read Twilight in the hopes that it would defy the reviews of my college friends and turn out to be a good book. But, unfortunately, they were right... it wasn't. I can sum the book up in two lines for you. These are "make me a vampire" and the response "I can't." Of course, these lines are repeated amidst terribly predictable teenage angst and anguish throughout the entirety of the book.
And what's sad is that the writer would be good if her plot weren't so laughable and her vampire characters so flat and 'Gary Stu.' The plot itself begins about 300 pages in while Bella, her vampire boyfriend, and his family are all playing an exciting game of vampire baseball out in some random field, just in case you're looking for a reason not to read.
Overall, I gave this book one and a half stars. Reasons? The characters are flat and boring (sometimes really annoying, too, with their strange responses to ordinary situations); the ooey-gooeyness of the love scenes seems over-the-top, unrealistic, and even comical; and the plot doesn't make an appearance until three-quarters of the way through the book (it wasn't even worth waiting for, either).
If you're looking for an interesting read, you're a Harry Potter and Twilight sort of person, and you're my age (twenties and thirties), check out The Magicians (which is at least pretty average in plot and very good in writing style), the His Dark Materials series, or The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. Same entertaining qualities, but with actual substance. Go.
And what's sad is that the writer would be good if her plot weren't so laughable and her vampire characters so flat and 'Gary Stu.' The plot itself begins about 300 pages in while Bella, her vampire boyfriend, and his family are all playing an exciting game of vampire baseball out in some random field, just in case you're looking for a reason not to read.
Overall, I gave this book one and a half stars. Reasons? The characters are flat and boring (sometimes really annoying, too, with their strange responses to ordinary situations); the ooey-gooeyness of the love scenes seems over-the-top, unrealistic, and even comical; and the plot doesn't make an appearance until three-quarters of the way through the book (it wasn't even worth waiting for, either).
If you're looking for an interesting read, you're a Harry Potter and Twilight sort of person, and you're my age (twenties and thirties), check out The Magicians (which is at least pretty average in plot and very good in writing style), the His Dark Materials series, or The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. Same entertaining qualities, but with actual substance. Go.
I was not expecting to like this book, I read it to see what all the hype was about. Well, before I was done with the first I had already purchased the second!
I didn't want to fall in love with this tween book, I hate vampires & sci-fi, but I was told if I liked Harry Potter I'd like Twilight. I love Harry so I gave it a shot, it was an easy & fun read that I really enjoyed!
I think this book captures the essence of what it feels like to be in love. I have read this book more than any other I own.
Suspensful enough to keep your attention. Makes you want to read the additional books for the outcome.
I have read a lot of Vampire books in my life, and this is a good one. While you read it, as an adult, I want it to go farther, but I understand that it is a book for "Young Adults." I am looking forward to reading the next three to see how it ends. And yes, as everyone has told me I would, I LOVE EDWARD! :)
Awesome book! It is listed as young reader, but it will even intrigue older readers! I don't usually read this kind of genre of books, but I was intrigued by it. I read it
in less than a week! Definitely a must read! Now I want to see the movie!
in less than a week! Definitely a must read! Now I want to see the movie!
I loved the whole series. I am a mother of three and two are teenage girls. They loved the books. The last one, breaking dawn, my just-barely teenager, didnt enjoy but after I read it I completly understood. It was much more adult or older teen than the first three. I think Twilight is a great book. I wasnt even interested in this series until my girls made me take them to see the movie. We loved the movie and went out and bought all 4 books and read the extra stuff on Stephenie Meyers website.
I gave up about halfway through on this one. The beginning was intriguing enough, but I felt like I was not the target audience -- definitely more targeted to "teen romance" than a horror novel, or even a more adult sort of romantic vampire novel like Interview with a Vampire. So, not for me.
Everyone knows the series, so I won't spend much time on it. All I'll say is that this is one of the few books that I wasn't able to get through, even though I wanted to. I put it down and picked it up twice trying to forge through, but the teenaged romance made me somewhat nauseous and the constant he's so beautiful, he's so beautiful finally did me in.
It gets you from the very beginning keeps you in suspense through the whole book. These are the best books I've read in a very long time.
I loved this book cannot wait to read the rest of the saga.
When I first picked up this book I was interested enough in the concept to buy it. When I read it, I liked, I wasn't rabid over it like some other books, but I did like it.
It's not THE best writing in the world, but considering the Author's age when she wrote it, and how the characters reflect that age I'd say it's pretty good. ^^
It's not THE best writing in the world, but considering the Author's age when she wrote it, and how the characters reflect that age I'd say it's pretty good. ^^
Amazing: One day Read! i loved it so much more than the Movie!
I read this book in 5 days. It was very easy to read. I was glued to the book, it was so good. I love the two main characters. They were great. It was well written. I can't wait to read the next book!
This is an awesome tail of true love despite differences and obstacles.. Great Story for all ages.
LOVED IT AND I AM NOT A TEEN!!! Great read...laughed...cried....took my breath away.
I love this book. It's not one I read over and over, because to me, while it is well written the plot is mush. Bella is an insecure teenager who is very average. She has never lived out side of her own comfort zone, and when she moves to forks with her dad, she finds her self in a ware wind of drama she had never before experienced. Edward the vampire is anything but average and to Edward, Bella is the epitome of the word so they are drawn to each other, by the simple truth that opposites attract, and each are what the other desperately desires to be. Bella wants more self esteem, Edward wants to find some of his lost humanity. It's a sweet mind relaxing love story. I love it, My mom loves it, and my 12 year old sister loves it. I would not recommend letting children under the age of fourteen read all four books with out parent's reading it first and deciding if your child is mature enough to handle some of the issues mentioned in the books.
WANT TO READ THE OTHER 3 BOOKS TO THIS SERIES.
Stephenie Meyer's very first book, not the best quality writing, but she pours her heart and soul into the characters. The other books in the series are much better, but this one's important for background and character development. I highly recommend the entire series. A lot of her writing is influenced by the music she listens to and by classics from Shakespeare, Austen, and Bronte.
I teased my sister for the longest time because she was obsessed with these books. Then when Twilight came out on film, I promised I would watch it with her. It was all down hill from there. I decided to read the book because she kept telling how much better the book was then the movie, and she was right!!! I love this series. I'm not into the fantasy/sci-fi stuff, but the love story in this books grabs ahold of you and sucks you in. Definitely recommended.
Loved reading this book even though I had already seen the movie, so much more depth than what you got from the movie!
the best book i have ever read. i read have read it 3 times. i couldnt put it down. my friend recommend it and at first i was like i dont care about vampires but she said try it and i did. it is a love story. amazing book!!! the book is much, much better than the movie. i love edward.
I love this series!!! Great characters, great story!!! This series is for EVERYONE....young and old!!!
OK,I am hooked. I look forward to the rest. I was skeptical at first.
However I did fall in love with Edward. I couldn't put the book down.
However I did fall in love with Edward. I couldn't put the book down.
This books wasy ok, I liked it, but not my kind of read.
I never saw the movie and I won't bother! The book is just too good. Appropriate for teens as well as adults.
one of my faves
If there was a negative rating (below zero) I would use it. I gave the book a try because I didn't want the Twilight lovers of the world to come after and kill me when I said I hated it without backing up my hatred. Meyer cannnot write. Cannot! My anger at her and her drivel prevents me from expressing my thoughts in a clear way so I'll refer to one of my most favorite people in the world right now.
http://bookstove.com/fantasy/why-i-hate-twilight/#ixzz1LOOCzhlR
Here's the story, "Girl: I cant live without you. I want to change myself to be with you. Boy: If you leave me, I will kill myself.
I do not expect great literature from every book, especially YA books. But I do not want the books that my young sister reads to be about a abusive, dangerous relationship where both parties go insane for, I think, 4 books.
http://bookstove.com/fantasy/why-i-hate-twilight/#ixzz1LOOCzhlR
Here's the story, "Girl: I cant live without you. I want to change myself to be with you. Boy: If you leave me, I will kill myself.
I do not expect great literature from every book, especially YA books. But I do not want the books that my young sister reads to be about a abusive, dangerous relationship where both parties go insane for, I think, 4 books.
I gave this copy to my daughter in law, because she loves it. So it won't be posted again. I hope to be able to read it in the near future and give a real review of it.
This book is amazing! Once I started I couldn't put it down!
Very intriguing. Didn't really want to read these, cause I'm not AT ALL into vampires, but was pleasantly surprised. Don't really know why it is so addictive! A clean book - no cursing, no sex, very little violence. Yet a very sexy read! Essentially just a love story. Couldn't put it down. Can't wait to read the next one!
Enjoyed -but I doubt I will read the entire series
Hard book to begin and not finish right away. It's very addicting!
easy to read and great book. More of a younger generation reading but if you like simple plots about vampires you will like this book.
The whole vampire thing is fascinating and these are mostly good ones that resist preying on humans so you can appreciate their otherness without the constant gore. The Anne Rice books became too bogged down in an over the top creepy vampire world, instead of their relationship with humans for me. I'd prefer a more developed adult story line but this story about a teen girl falling in love with a vampire effectively hooked my imagination.
The first half is super boring.
This was absolutely exquisite! My inner teenage girl is all gooey with pleasure!
Oh, and I think Ilyana Kadushin, the narrator of the audio version, must be Bella Swan's stage name. Her reading as Bella is perfect.
Oh, and I think Ilyana Kadushin, the narrator of the audio version, must be Bella Swan's stage name. Her reading as Bella is perfect.
I was going to resist this series because vampires are about as far away from my thing as you can get. Plus I wanted to be the only person on earth who hadn't read it. I hate to say it, but this was a guilty pleasure and I loved the story. I thought the writing was a bit choppy but eventually I got used to it. Good story, can't wait for the movie, I hope it is as good as the book.
Am I the only person who found this series pretty average? As the author pointed out, Bella is based upon herself... she was a "5" where she grew up, but when she moved to Provo, UT away from all the Phoenix hotties, she became an "8" since her caliber rose in comparison to her new peer group. So we have Bella, former "5", now an "8" in tiny little Forks, WA. She's pursued by all the boys who come across her, but she wants none of them. (Amazing, for a girl who never enjoyed the heady experience of multiple suitors). After she meets Edward, she turns out to really be a damsel in distress. Getting herself into scrapes that require frequent bleeding, stitches or simply a knight in shining armor literally whisking her out of fate's hands, once again. I guess the appeal of this book is that the most physically perfect man ever adores Miss 8, enough to stare at her every night while she sleeps and save her during the day. What girl doesn't want to be the intense focus of HIM? Unfortunately, Meyer's writing quality is not of the highest caliber. It's difficult to grow attached to any of the characters because they aren't dimensional enough. They aren't fleshed out and frankly the only attachment I could find somewhat believable was the strong feelings of friendship Bella feels for Alice. If there wasn't a movie with the current hotties of teenage Hollywood, this wouldn't even be a blip on the radar.
"About three things I was absolutely positive. First, Edward was a vampire. Second, there was a part of him, and I didn't know how dominant that part was, that thirsted for my blood. And third, I was unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him."
An AMAZING book and series. Had me hooked from the first page of the first book to the last page of the third book. I highly recommend to everyone!!
An AMAZING book and series. Had me hooked from the first page of the first book to the last page of the third book. I highly recommend to everyone!!
Abhorrantly and patheticly written, so much so that I couldn't get past the poor grammar and sentence structuring. The watered down story is suitable for levelling a wobbly table. I couldn't make it past chapter 3.
It was an easy read, with an interesting story. However, Stephanie Meyer is not a good author and this book is definitely not good literature. So much could have been cut out of the book while still maintaining the integrity of the story. I enjoyed the light read, but really wish it had been better written.
I'm crazy for the Twilight books. This was by far my very favorite. In my opinion she could have left this book as a Solo and I still would have loved it equally. If you haven't read Twilight you better get with the times! haha
Ok, so my 2 teen kids said I HAD to read this, that other moms were... sigh. I even questioned one of the moms if it were true and to my amazement she'd not only read the series, she loved it. Hmm. Ok, I read the book. Man was I hooked! You can't help but fall in love with it. Great read for both young adults and those of us a little older. :)
Fantastic.
I heard about it from a friends teenager and then my preteen son said his classmates were reading it. I decided to read the series. It is fantastic. I am 41 and thought it was great! Of course I tried to talk my preteen into reading it but he is not interested.
Great Book!
I heard about it from a friends teenager and then my preteen son said his classmates were reading it. I decided to read the series. It is fantastic. I am 41 and thought it was great! Of course I tried to talk my preteen into reading it but he is not interested.
Great Book!
LOVED these books! I think the even top the Uglies series and the Harry Potter series at most parts.
Jaw Dropping Amazing - yup that covers it all!
I can't believe i didn't know about this until now...I have been missing out! Love how intuitive Bella is and what lengths she goes to to prove to herself that it isn't just her imagination when it comes to Edward.
I watched the film first, and couldn't really understand why people liked it so much. Several people told me the books were so much better, so I thought I may as well read the book so at least I can understand the movies. As disappointed as I was with some of the sequels, I have to say I really enjoyed this first book in the series. In the book it makes much more sense why Edward would like a vapid teen (the author clearly describes her as beautiful, with very long hair and alabaster skin). She is clumsy and moody, but clearly not interested in most of the same things as the other girls around her--and this fascinates Edward, who can't read her mind as he can everyone else. Oh yes, and she smells like the Vampire equivalent of a hot fudge sundae with brandied cherry sauce. If my favorite dessert started talking to me, I might be interested too. ;)
Honestly the only thing I hated about this first book was the fact that Twilight vampires have no fangs, and glow and sparkle in the sunshine... really, we have fairy princess pony vampires now? LOL It would have been so much better (and more true to the vampire mythos) if he had burst into flame in the sunlight, or revealed a monstrous form, or shriveled to show his age, or turned gray/obsidian black/ashen, *something* that "reveals what I really am" as Edward says.... because how sparkling reveals him as a vampire is beyond me! Oh yes, and if you lived forever, why on earth would you spend your life in high schools? LOL If you forget these groan-worthy vampire errors, however, the rest of the story is actually quite enjoyable. If you want to avoid any disappointment you might stop with this book, however, which is by far the best of the series.
Honestly the only thing I hated about this first book was the fact that Twilight vampires have no fangs, and glow and sparkle in the sunshine... really, we have fairy princess pony vampires now? LOL It would have been so much better (and more true to the vampire mythos) if he had burst into flame in the sunlight, or revealed a monstrous form, or shriveled to show his age, or turned gray/obsidian black/ashen, *something* that "reveals what I really am" as Edward says.... because how sparkling reveals him as a vampire is beyond me! Oh yes, and if you lived forever, why on earth would you spend your life in high schools? LOL If you forget these groan-worthy vampire errors, however, the rest of the story is actually quite enjoyable. If you want to avoid any disappointment you might stop with this book, however, which is by far the best of the series.
An excellent book. The first volume of the four-book Twilight Saga. When I first heard about it I was doubtful (teen vampire romance not being my usual preference for books), but then I found the boxed set of all the volumes for a great price. I decided to give them a try, and I'm very glad that I did. In the first book you essentially get to read about the formation of the relationship between Edward Cullen (vampire) and Bella Swan (human). While the writing (and editing) of the books are not of the best quality you can find, the originality and entertainment present in the books make them all well worth the read. I had trouble putting them down until I was finished, and wouldn't mind reading them again. Definitely highly recommended.
This started kind of slow for me (I'd seen the movie then decided to read the book) and had it not been for watching the movie, I probably would've put it down midway. As it turned out, I'm so glad I kept reading! The books just got better and better! It's very simple writing, but that's probably why I liked it. I was able to focus on the love story between Bella and Edward without getting caught up in too many descriptive details. For the first in the series, it wasn't bad.
I only read this book because of all the hype that was surrounding it. I honestly didn't think I'd like it very much, but I was wrong.
At first I found it hard to get into, the story seemed to move very slowly through the first 100 pages or so. However once things started to pick up, I couldn't put it down.
I think that because there was so much hype I wanted the book to move quickly to the inevitable. So it took me twice as long to read the first hundred pages as it took me to read the last 400.
Overall I was very happy with the book. Some details I found to be quite mundane but, again, once I got into the book I didn't even notice the unnecessary details that I was beginning to despise in the beginning.
If I had to pick one thing about this book that was my favorite was that the vampires aren't portrayed as I am used to reading. I liked the breaking down of Edward's vampire traits back to his human traits. One thing that I didn't like would be Bella. I think that a teenager has a very different thought process than she does. And while the book tries to compensate for that by mentioning that she's different, I still found her to be unbelievable. Even more unbelievable than Edward. I did really enjoy this book and I hope that as I get further into the series that I will like Bella more, as she is the narrator...
So I didn't think it was a great book, but it was enjoyable, enough so that I'm going to read at least the next book in the series.
At first I found it hard to get into, the story seemed to move very slowly through the first 100 pages or so. However once things started to pick up, I couldn't put it down.
I think that because there was so much hype I wanted the book to move quickly to the inevitable. So it took me twice as long to read the first hundred pages as it took me to read the last 400.
Overall I was very happy with the book. Some details I found to be quite mundane but, again, once I got into the book I didn't even notice the unnecessary details that I was beginning to despise in the beginning.
If I had to pick one thing about this book that was my favorite was that the vampires aren't portrayed as I am used to reading. I liked the breaking down of Edward's vampire traits back to his human traits. One thing that I didn't like would be Bella. I think that a teenager has a very different thought process than she does. And while the book tries to compensate for that by mentioning that she's different, I still found her to be unbelievable. Even more unbelievable than Edward. I did really enjoy this book and I hope that as I get further into the series that I will like Bella more, as she is the narrator...
So I didn't think it was a great book, but it was enjoyable, enough so that I'm going to read at least the next book in the series.
I felt like I was the only person in the world that hadn't read this book so I broke down and read it. I am so glad I did. It's 500 pages and I read it in three days even with my busy schedule. It is a must read for anyone who loves the vampire genre or just loves a good book.
Amazing! I really was drawn in, and now I'm reading "New Moon". Probably not the best book I've ever read, but you definitely fall in love with the main male character!
Title: Twilight
Author: Stephenie Meyer
Protagonist: 16-year-old Bella Swan
Setting: present-day Forks, Washington and Phoenix, Arizona
Series: #1
Rating: A+
First Line: My mother drove me to the airport with the windows rolled down.
I overdosed on vampires with Anne Rice's Vampire Lestat novels. Although I've seen scads of vampire films, only one actor has made me believe that Dracula is sexy: Richard Roxburgh in Van Helsing. I just plain didn't care one way or the other about vampires. But when a friend's granddaughter wanted to be the first person in line for Breaking Dawn and insisted that her grandmother read the entire series, my friend raved about how good they were. Since Jeanie doesn't rave like that very often, I decided to give Twilight a try this past Sunday afternoon. It was like diving in a pool feet first, expecting to touch bottom, spring up and break free into the air and sunlight. Problem is...there was no bottom. I was in Twilight for the long haul. I lost track of time, of where I was.... When Denis called, the sound of the telephone scared the pudding out of me.
Meyer has taken the tried, true and rather tired conventions of the new kid in school, girl meets boy, and vampires and turned them into magic. Bella Swan's mother is in a new relationship and in order not to put undue strain on it, Bella decides to move to Forks, Washington to live with her father, Charlie. A mountainous, tree-covered and rainy small spot on the road on the Olympic Peninsula, Forks couldn't be any more different from Bella's favored Phoenix, Arizona than the surface of the moon. When she shows up at her new school, all the boys light up like solar flares, but Bella isn't interested. She is interested, however, in a group of five students who sit together in the cafeteria and don't eat. They are the adopted children of Dr. Carlisle Cullen, and Meyer does a masterful job of drawing out the suspense until Bella finds out just what the Cullens really are: vampires, good vampires who've sworn off human prey. Bella doesn't care. All she knows is that she is irrevocably in love with Edward Cullen, and she'd rather be dead than parted from him. Their relationship is made even more haunting by the fact that Bella has, in effect, a death sentence hanging over her if their emotions run out of control. All the Cullens accept Bella into their group for the sake of Edward, but when a nasty group of vampires come into the area and focus on the young human girl, the Cullens have to band together to save her life.
I don't think there's one part of this book that I didn't like. Bella is an amazing character: so unaware of herself, yet so resourceful, bright and capable of focusing on the heart of a matter. She brought tears to my eyes when she tried to describe the beauty of the Sonoran Desert to Edward. And Edward! What's not to like? I would imagine that thousands of females read the pages of his spending days questioning Bella about all her likes and dislikes...about every facet of her life...and thought, "Wow, where can I find someone like that?"
You have no earthly clue how hard it was for me to leave Target yesterday after my shift was over and not pick up the other three books in this series first. I managed to refrain today as well. Methinks that will change very, very soon. I even have a soft spot for Stephenie Meyer herself. As my friend Jeanie pointed out to me, Meyer also went to Brigham Young University and got a degree in English Literature and she also lives in Phoenix.
Once again, vampires have me in their clutches.
Author: Stephenie Meyer
Protagonist: 16-year-old Bella Swan
Setting: present-day Forks, Washington and Phoenix, Arizona
Series: #1
Rating: A+
First Line: My mother drove me to the airport with the windows rolled down.
I overdosed on vampires with Anne Rice's Vampire Lestat novels. Although I've seen scads of vampire films, only one actor has made me believe that Dracula is sexy: Richard Roxburgh in Van Helsing. I just plain didn't care one way or the other about vampires. But when a friend's granddaughter wanted to be the first person in line for Breaking Dawn and insisted that her grandmother read the entire series, my friend raved about how good they were. Since Jeanie doesn't rave like that very often, I decided to give Twilight a try this past Sunday afternoon. It was like diving in a pool feet first, expecting to touch bottom, spring up and break free into the air and sunlight. Problem is...there was no bottom. I was in Twilight for the long haul. I lost track of time, of where I was.... When Denis called, the sound of the telephone scared the pudding out of me.
Meyer has taken the tried, true and rather tired conventions of the new kid in school, girl meets boy, and vampires and turned them into magic. Bella Swan's mother is in a new relationship and in order not to put undue strain on it, Bella decides to move to Forks, Washington to live with her father, Charlie. A mountainous, tree-covered and rainy small spot on the road on the Olympic Peninsula, Forks couldn't be any more different from Bella's favored Phoenix, Arizona than the surface of the moon. When she shows up at her new school, all the boys light up like solar flares, but Bella isn't interested. She is interested, however, in a group of five students who sit together in the cafeteria and don't eat. They are the adopted children of Dr. Carlisle Cullen, and Meyer does a masterful job of drawing out the suspense until Bella finds out just what the Cullens really are: vampires, good vampires who've sworn off human prey. Bella doesn't care. All she knows is that she is irrevocably in love with Edward Cullen, and she'd rather be dead than parted from him. Their relationship is made even more haunting by the fact that Bella has, in effect, a death sentence hanging over her if their emotions run out of control. All the Cullens accept Bella into their group for the sake of Edward, but when a nasty group of vampires come into the area and focus on the young human girl, the Cullens have to band together to save her life.
I don't think there's one part of this book that I didn't like. Bella is an amazing character: so unaware of herself, yet so resourceful, bright and capable of focusing on the heart of a matter. She brought tears to my eyes when she tried to describe the beauty of the Sonoran Desert to Edward. And Edward! What's not to like? I would imagine that thousands of females read the pages of his spending days questioning Bella about all her likes and dislikes...about every facet of her life...and thought, "Wow, where can I find someone like that?"
You have no earthly clue how hard it was for me to leave Target yesterday after my shift was over and not pick up the other three books in this series first. I managed to refrain today as well. Methinks that will change very, very soon. I even have a soft spot for Stephenie Meyer herself. As my friend Jeanie pointed out to me, Meyer also went to Brigham Young University and got a degree in English Literature and she also lives in Phoenix.
Once again, vampires have me in their clutches.
I'm guessing that this book was written for the teenage crowd, but even with that concession, I was disappointed in the too-simple writing.
I Love the premise! It is so promising! It was sometimes fun, always easy and definitely a no-brainer reading.
I just couldn't handle one more "touch" scene... it reads like two Mormon teenagers who know they shouldn't go all the way, but keep pushing the bounds every time. I didn't like that- "I can control myself." Most teens can't in those intimate settings.
There's more critique, but I know she has a loyal following...glad to be able to swap this book...
I Love the premise! It is so promising! It was sometimes fun, always easy and definitely a no-brainer reading.
I just couldn't handle one more "touch" scene... it reads like two Mormon teenagers who know they shouldn't go all the way, but keep pushing the bounds every time. I didn't like that- "I can control myself." Most teens can't in those intimate settings.
There's more critique, but I know she has a loyal following...glad to be able to swap this book...
I, too, bought this book because of the growing hype for the movie. I loved this book very much. The story is wonderful and the character development is outstanding. You come to care for this two teenagers as they move from courtship to full blown love.
I see themes from other classic books that are also my favorite and I am sure of Meyer's. Wuthering Heights and Pride and Prejudice is seen through the pasges of this book. Two people that fall in love (Heathcliff and Catherine) from different social classes (Wuthering Heights) One person who is in madly in love with the other person while the other person does not understand the other person's point of view (Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice).
I cannot wait to read the others in the series and then reread them again for utter enjoyment.
I see themes from other classic books that are also my favorite and I am sure of Meyer's. Wuthering Heights and Pride and Prejudice is seen through the pasges of this book. Two people that fall in love (Heathcliff and Catherine) from different social classes (Wuthering Heights) One person who is in madly in love with the other person while the other person does not understand the other person's point of view (Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice).
I cannot wait to read the others in the series and then reread them again for utter enjoyment.
I had never heard of the Twilight Saga and I had never heard of the movie either. It wasn't until I was in my local movie rental store, noting all of the marketing, that my interest was finally piqued. I asked the salesperson what all the hype was about. He told me that 'Twilight' is the new generation's 'Titanic.' So I rented it and loved the movie. It left me wanting more so I purchased the book and was consumed by it. I then purchased the rest in the series and thoroughly enjoyed each one. Depsite being the size of an average brick, I read them all within a week and have now circled back and restarted the series. It is all a bit ridiculous as I am a grown woman but there is something special and relatable to the innocence of first love. I love the characters of Edward and Bella and I love their story. My husband just doesn't get it but I cannot get enough.
Never in a million years would I have picked up this book until I was urged to by a friend. Never even seen any of the movies either. But upon my friend's urging I gave it a shot. And now a week later, I've finished 3 out of the 4 books, and working my way thru the 4th book now.
Honestly for me it was the romance that kept me interested and "thirsty" for more. For a YA book, maybe a little unrealistic about what teenage life, but still realistic enough to see how much you'll do for your 1st love. Over all, would highly recommend the books to everyone who loves to read a romance. Just be forewarn you'll need the next book, "new moon" ready for when you finish this one.
Enjoy!
Honestly for me it was the romance that kept me interested and "thirsty" for more. For a YA book, maybe a little unrealistic about what teenage life, but still realistic enough to see how much you'll do for your 1st love. Over all, would highly recommend the books to everyone who loves to read a romance. Just be forewarn you'll need the next book, "new moon" ready for when you finish this one.
Enjoy!
This book, to me, is definitely for teens. There is much repetition, some character development and one small section of excitement. I did not really like this book, but I am also not a teen.
I'm one of the few who didn't like this book. I didn't even finish it. I know that's it's YA fiction, but her writing style is simplistic. I couldn't get past all the cliches and bad writing. Sorry, Stepahnie, but your book just didn't cut it for me.
This was one of the most fascinating books I have read in a very long time. The love that Bella and Edward have for each other truly made me ache inside. Stephanie Meyer is a very talented writer who knows how to grab the readers attention and keep it. I was never once bored with this book, in fact I had trouble putting it down to attend to my daily activities. So far my favorite book for this year.
The first installment of the Twilight series introduces us to Isabella (Bella) Marie Swan who has recently moved from Phoenix, Arizona, to Forks, Washington, to live with her father, Charlie (and she always refers to him as Charlie), who is the local chief of police (or is he the sheriff -- they author seems to switch his role back and forth.) She is doing this as a favor to her mother, Rene'e, so she can pursue her relationship with her current boyfriend, who is desperately trying to hang onto a dying baseball career with the minor leagues.
Bella doesn't have a close relationship with Charlie -- mostly because she hasn't seen him for several years. Once she got a bit older, she refused to spend summers with him but now she is going to live with him.
Charlie surprises her and has purchased an old pick up for her to drive to school. And, doesn't expect her to use her money to pay him back. Apparently, there aren't school buses in Forks and Bella needs her our vehicle to get to school everyday. (Now what will Bella do with all the money she'd saved to buy the car?)
Bella easily makes friends at her new school -- except for the strange Cullen family and most especially Edward, who sits next to her in biology and has an obvious dislike for her even though they've never spoken. She can't figure out why he doesn't like her, especially since she finds his pale skin and dark-circled eyes to be so beautiful.
Bella is a bit of a klutz -- well actually, it's a miracle the girl can walk -- and one day in the parking lost, Edward does an amazing tackle and saves her from being hit by a classmate's car in the school parking lot. After this, Edward and Bella start to see each other on a regular basis and Bella eventually learns his secret -- he and the rest of the Cullens are vampires.
While hanging out with the Cullen family one day, they entire a small group of vampires that are passing through -- James, Victoria and Laurent. The Cullen family has to protect Bella from an attack by the three of them. James and Victoria leave, but Laurent agrees to come peaceably with the Cullen family and eventually decides to go to Denali, Alaska, to live the with vampires there. But James and Victoria are still around and determined to capture Bella.
Can Bella make a relationship with someone who wants to eat her (she just smells so much better than all those other kids at school)? Especially when her klutziness causes her to constantly cut herself around Edward. I mean, really, how much temptation is a 70+ year old 17 year old supposed to be able to resist? Plus, there's the evil vampire who discovers Bella and wants to have her for himself. Can she escape the evil vampire? Will Edward be able to save her?
I understand the attraction teens have to the story and it's not worse than other young adult fiction. I find it more distressing that Bella doesn't really have any parents -- her mother is more interested in pursuing her own sex life (vis-a-vis her baseball playing boyfriend) and her father, although in law enforcement, doesn't seem to feel a need to enforce any discipline or rules on the daughter who is now living with him. That's not to say that Bella is any sort of a trouble maker. In fact, she's a very responsible kid -- she just never has to get permission to do anything or report in with her father as to her activities.
I like the book enough to say that I will read the rest of the series.
Bella doesn't have a close relationship with Charlie -- mostly because she hasn't seen him for several years. Once she got a bit older, she refused to spend summers with him but now she is going to live with him.
Charlie surprises her and has purchased an old pick up for her to drive to school. And, doesn't expect her to use her money to pay him back. Apparently, there aren't school buses in Forks and Bella needs her our vehicle to get to school everyday. (Now what will Bella do with all the money she'd saved to buy the car?)
Bella easily makes friends at her new school -- except for the strange Cullen family and most especially Edward, who sits next to her in biology and has an obvious dislike for her even though they've never spoken. She can't figure out why he doesn't like her, especially since she finds his pale skin and dark-circled eyes to be so beautiful.
Bella is a bit of a klutz -- well actually, it's a miracle the girl can walk -- and one day in the parking lost, Edward does an amazing tackle and saves her from being hit by a classmate's car in the school parking lot. After this, Edward and Bella start to see each other on a regular basis and Bella eventually learns his secret -- he and the rest of the Cullens are vampires.
While hanging out with the Cullen family one day, they entire a small group of vampires that are passing through -- James, Victoria and Laurent. The Cullen family has to protect Bella from an attack by the three of them. James and Victoria leave, but Laurent agrees to come peaceably with the Cullen family and eventually decides to go to Denali, Alaska, to live the with vampires there. But James and Victoria are still around and determined to capture Bella.
Can Bella make a relationship with someone who wants to eat her (she just smells so much better than all those other kids at school)? Especially when her klutziness causes her to constantly cut herself around Edward. I mean, really, how much temptation is a 70+ year old 17 year old supposed to be able to resist? Plus, there's the evil vampire who discovers Bella and wants to have her for himself. Can she escape the evil vampire? Will Edward be able to save her?
I understand the attraction teens have to the story and it's not worse than other young adult fiction. I find it more distressing that Bella doesn't really have any parents -- her mother is more interested in pursuing her own sex life (vis-a-vis her baseball playing boyfriend) and her father, although in law enforcement, doesn't seem to feel a need to enforce any discipline or rules on the daughter who is now living with him. That's not to say that Bella is any sort of a trouble maker. In fact, she's a very responsible kid -- she just never has to get permission to do anything or report in with her father as to her activities.
I like the book enough to say that I will read the rest of the series.
I know that this is the newest sensation in vampire series but I was honestly bored with it. I recieved the first 4 books of the series for Christmas and after reading the first book decided they are not my style. They are definately good for teen readers but as far as vampires go I have to stick with my Anita Blake series which has more adult themed story lines.
great book so romantic!
Loved it! What more can I say. I read the books long before the movies came out, saw the movies and listened on cd. Can't get enough of it.
It was nice to be able to listen to it while doing other things. Can't wait to get the rest of them in audio format..
I want to start off by telling you that I have not read Twilight. I started it but was very under-impressed by Stephanie Meyer's writing and could not get over it in order to finish the book. But as my niece kept talking about the story, I wanted to be able to talk to her about it. So I thought that listening to it may allow me to get through it.
I found it much easier to focus on the story rather than the writing in the audio format. The Narrators voice was easy to listen to--but I hated the way she emphasized "Bella" every time she said it. Sometimes it was appropriate, but every single time was annoying.
But I did find the story more compelling than I expected. I am excited to get the next book as an audio CD.
I found it much easier to focus on the story rather than the writing in the audio format. The Narrators voice was easy to listen to--but I hated the way she emphasized "Bella" every time she said it. Sometimes it was appropriate, but every single time was annoying.
But I did find the story more compelling than I expected. I am excited to get the next book as an audio CD.
This was not a bad book. It is just stereotypical young adult. That is not top stuff on my list. Yes there is young adult I adore like His Dark Materials and Got Fang?. This was just not on that same level. It was much ado about nothing with Vampires and high schoolers. It was still a fluffy but enjoyable listen. I guess to me it lacked humor that other favorites have included. I also find that Bella is not a great female role model. I am actually having a hard time in general finding good female role models in books for my niece. I do not particularly hold that against this book. Its just worth mentioning.
I loved this book and cannot wait to finish all of the series. I read alot and when I have a great book, I have a hard time putting it down. I am 3/4 of the way through the 2nd book of the series.
The book was in good conditon, thank you.
The book was in good conditon, thank you.
This book is the best book I have ever read in my entire life! I thought all the talk about this series was bogus and I saw the movie anyways a few weeks ago with my husband and decided I enjoyed the movie, so why not read the book. Well I couldn't put the book down and it stole my heart. It is the best love story I have read.
Edward Cullen and Bella are 2 fabulous characters and if you are looking to fall in love witha book, this has to be the one to read. It's incredible and I will continue with the series. They may be considered "young adult", but it's beyond that in so many ways. It's not where near a Gossip Girl-type of young adult novel, it's for everyone!
Edward Cullen and Bella are 2 fabulous characters and if you are looking to fall in love witha book, this has to be the one to read. It's incredible and I will continue with the series. They may be considered "young adult", but it's beyond that in so many ways. It's not where near a Gossip Girl-type of young adult novel, it's for everyone!
The Twilight series is just too much teenage angst for me. I find the Sookie Stackhouse series to be much more interesting, not to mention amusing also.
one of the best book i have seen in a long time! fast and easy read!
I have a hard time writing a review for this book as a reader, and not as a FAN. Because yes, I am a Twi-hard. I am a card-carrying member of TwilightMoms and a slightly tormented member of Team Edward.
And if you haven't read the series, most of that means nothing to you. So let me be a little less familiar and tell you why you should read this book.
Yes, it's young adult fiction. Yes, vampires are "trendy" right now -- and that alone will lead some readers to abstain. But author Stephenie Meyer has worked some magic in this series.
Twilight uses a tried-and-true formula -- the star-crossed lovers. But its not social status or family feuds or race or anything else quite so mundane keeping romantic leads Edward and Bella apart. There's something a little darker lurking under the surface. They're not only from different species (and frankly, different centuries) -- Edward, a "vegetarian" vampire that doesn't prey on humans, thirsts for Bella's blood above all others. Not that that stops them from falling madly in love.
(sigh!)
Now, is the book great? Probably not. Meyer's first attempt at writing isn't perfect, but she also admittedly calls herself a storyteller and not a writer. And the story is amazing. The characters are well-developed and easy to care about, and the book is a quick read.
I recommend it to almost everyone I meet. Seriously. Read it in spite of the hype, whether you are 14 or 40. And be prepared with its sequel, New Moon, waiting in the wings when you finish. Because this addictive series will sink its teeth into you. [close]
And if you haven't read the series, most of that means nothing to you. So let me be a little less familiar and tell you why you should read this book.
Yes, it's young adult fiction. Yes, vampires are "trendy" right now -- and that alone will lead some readers to abstain. But author Stephenie Meyer has worked some magic in this series.
Twilight uses a tried-and-true formula -- the star-crossed lovers. But its not social status or family feuds or race or anything else quite so mundane keeping romantic leads Edward and Bella apart. There's something a little darker lurking under the surface. They're not only from different species (and frankly, different centuries) -- Edward, a "vegetarian" vampire that doesn't prey on humans, thirsts for Bella's blood above all others. Not that that stops them from falling madly in love.
(sigh!)
Now, is the book great? Probably not. Meyer's first attempt at writing isn't perfect, but she also admittedly calls herself a storyteller and not a writer. And the story is amazing. The characters are well-developed and easy to care about, and the book is a quick read.
I recommend it to almost everyone I meet. Seriously. Read it in spite of the hype, whether you are 14 or 40. And be prepared with its sequel, New Moon, waiting in the wings when you finish. Because this addictive series will sink its teeth into you. [close]
For a first novel this book was amazingly written and a welcome addition to the Vampire genre.
I didn't put it down from start to finish.
I didn't put it down from start to finish.
This book is drivel. The characters are wooden and the plot meaningless. The only moment of suspense was when Bella was trapped and that didn't last for long or ever get a satisfactory explanation.
Okay, so people read books 2-4 to find out if she becomes a vampire?!
NOT ME!
And our teens are reading this stuff when there are wonderful books out there like "Book Thief?"
Okay, so people read books 2-4 to find out if she becomes a vampire?!
NOT ME!
And our teens are reading this stuff when there are wonderful books out there like "Book Thief?"
I loved it! I made me feel like a 13 year old girl again. Remember having a crush on the hottest guy in school? Remember how it felt when he did so little as ask to borrow a pencil? My heart was thumping so hard reading this book, I thought it would jump right out of my chest. This book is an easy read with a great story.
Interesting teen novel. I wanted to read before the movie. Easy read and creative ideas about vampires. I enjoyed the book and want to read the next.
Good stuff wanted more unique story
Curiosity got the best of me of what the hype was about on this Young Adult book... While not totally disappointed I didn't see what the hype was all about, has to be the movie that's caused it. It truly brings the high school out in you.
I think that the book has a lot of detail that's truly not necessary but expected of a new writer... I found the book to be very easy to read, simple at best. Characters development needs improvement. I found it a bit hard to believe that plain jane Bella get a drop dead (no punt intended) gorgeous Edward to fall in love with because she smells sweet...
I recommend the book for teens. For adults it may be too high school for you.. There's plenty of adult vampire books to choose from... Who knows I just may read the second book.
I think that the book has a lot of detail that's truly not necessary but expected of a new writer... I found the book to be very easy to read, simple at best. Characters development needs improvement. I found it a bit hard to believe that plain jane Bella get a drop dead (no punt intended) gorgeous Edward to fall in love with because she smells sweet...
I recommend the book for teens. For adults it may be too high school for you.. There's plenty of adult vampire books to choose from... Who knows I just may read the second book.
I could hardly put this book down--and subsequently read all four books in the series in rapid fire. I am not a "vampire" believer/reader. These books were great though!
I must admit that being a woman in my early 30's, I felt silly reading this book at first. And then I didn't care! I'm a fan of a good story and you can label it whatever you want but it was a really fun read. As soon as I finished this one I went out and bought the last three. A total guilty pleasure from beginning to end.
Read it in 1 day. I think this was because I was essentially reading the same conversation over and over again:
Edward: I don't want to hurt you.
Bella: I'm not scared of you. I'm so ordinary, why do you love me?
Edward: I can't read your mind, you're different. Your insecurity is oddly charming.
Bella: Don't leave me.
Edward: I won't but I'm a monster, I'm afraid I could hurt you.
Bella: I'm not scared of you.
You're hurting meeee!!!!! I got it already, move along. I know Edward's got eternity, but I don't!
Edward: I don't want to hurt you.
Bella: I'm not scared of you. I'm so ordinary, why do you love me?
Edward: I can't read your mind, you're different. Your insecurity is oddly charming.
Bella: Don't leave me.
Edward: I won't but I'm a monster, I'm afraid I could hurt you.
Bella: I'm not scared of you.
You're hurting meeee!!!!! I got it already, move along. I know Edward's got eternity, but I don't!
WOW.. This book totally lived up to the hype. I loved it & can't wait to read the next in the series. It was fantastic.
I loved this book. This series made me remember how much I love to read. Stephenie Meyer is a genius!!
This is a great series of books. Far better than the movie. If you need to get lost in another world this is a great series to do so. I, however, do not recommend this series to the teen audience. There is material within the series that would be questionable for teens to read. Not necessarily in this first book. But why in the world would you start a series and not be able to finish it?
I liked this book okay, probably more than the others. It was like the more twilight books I read, the more I disliked it.
If you like a distorted definition of vampires and love (more like lust), then you'll like this book. It's all sappy and cliché like that. That doesn't undermine it necessarily...but it's like candy. It's all sweet and wonderful until you've overdosed on it, then you feel sick and get a headache and...ugh.
Anyway. It's fine.
If you like a distorted definition of vampires and love (more like lust), then you'll like this book. It's all sappy and cliché like that. That doesn't undermine it necessarily...but it's like candy. It's all sweet and wonderful until you've overdosed on it, then you feel sick and get a headache and...ugh.
Anyway. It's fine.
Couldn't put it down.
good romance novel. Not a lot of action
Was better than expected. Simply written, but good.
I hesitated to read this book because I'm not into vampire stories, but I seriously couldn't put it down! It's an incredible love story with just enough mystery to pull you in without giving you nightmares. I immediately ran out to see the movie and then bought the next book.
Fanastic book--not at all what I thought it would be like!!
Fun and fast read, will have you hooked in the first fifty pages!
Loved this book. No, it's not high-brow literature but it's a great story and I enjoyed reading it. The rest of the series isn't as good as this one.
This is an engaging story that draws you right in from the start. A teenage girl moves from Sunny Phoenix to the rainy northwest near Seattle. The story chronicles her experiences at her new school where she meets an interesting group of kids. The story is woven artfully between love, danger, vampires, jealousy, devotion. Great read, didn't want to put it down.
I have heard of so many people getting addicted to this book. When I found it at a thrift shop I decided to give it a try - if I couldn't get into it then I could put it on paperback swap and not loose anything (just gain a credit). I could not put this book down. I LOVED it and am looking forward to reading the second book and watching the movie. A friend once told me "if you read the book you may neglect your kids" it was true (okay so they weren't neglected but did get less attention for the few days it took me to read the book)
I am really not into "Vampire" stories, but I read this series anyway because so many of my friends and co-workers were reading them and saying how good they were. They were not kidding. I LOVED the entire series. I read all four books in about 3 weeks. I couldn't put them down. I would recommend them to anyone.
Amazing love story and very interesting characters!
the way that Stephanie Meyer writes make you feel that you are in the book. The book is written by Belle's view point. As I read this book I felt like I was Bella and what was happing to her was really happening to me. I haven't really read a book that make me feel that I was in it before.
Truly, this is not really a very good book. But then, in all honesty, I have to add that I couldn't put it down. I read it in a day and immediately reached for the second book.
It's fluff for teenagers and for anyone who likes being transported back to those teenage days of feeling different and alone and misunderstood (even though EVERYONE felt that way.) There is the fantasy of the beautiful, mysterious, dangerous boy and the suspense of secrets and mortal threats. Meyer's writing style pulls you in and doesn't let you go. Like a soap opera, it's addicting, and once you've put it down you feel a little ashamed...
The characters are shallow and actually poor role models for the intended pre-teen audience of this series, in my opinion. Bella allows herself to be defined solely by her relationship with Edward, abandoning her father, her friends, and her aspirations for a future just to be with him -- who wants their teen daughters to idealize THAT? Edward is masochistic, self-pitying, and shows some alarmingly controlling and even abusive behaviors toward Bella -- again, NOT the kind of "Perfect Man" image I would want in my daughter's romance-starved teenage heart. The entire book puts an enormous amount of weight on the "virtue" of being beautiful and never allows any of its characters to dig beyond that in search of something truer. I guess that's okay though, in a genre where the immortality given grants immortal beauty along with eternal life.
Kudos to Meyer for her brilliant ability to transport the reader into her story, to let the reader replace Bella with herself and live vicariously a crazy, whirlwind adventure. I just wish she had idealized some more admirable lessons as she did so.
It's fluff for teenagers and for anyone who likes being transported back to those teenage days of feeling different and alone and misunderstood (even though EVERYONE felt that way.) There is the fantasy of the beautiful, mysterious, dangerous boy and the suspense of secrets and mortal threats. Meyer's writing style pulls you in and doesn't let you go. Like a soap opera, it's addicting, and once you've put it down you feel a little ashamed...
The characters are shallow and actually poor role models for the intended pre-teen audience of this series, in my opinion. Bella allows herself to be defined solely by her relationship with Edward, abandoning her father, her friends, and her aspirations for a future just to be with him -- who wants their teen daughters to idealize THAT? Edward is masochistic, self-pitying, and shows some alarmingly controlling and even abusive behaviors toward Bella -- again, NOT the kind of "Perfect Man" image I would want in my daughter's romance-starved teenage heart. The entire book puts an enormous amount of weight on the "virtue" of being beautiful and never allows any of its characters to dig beyond that in search of something truer. I guess that's okay though, in a genre where the immortality given grants immortal beauty along with eternal life.
Kudos to Meyer for her brilliant ability to transport the reader into her story, to let the reader replace Bella with herself and live vicariously a crazy, whirlwind adventure. I just wish she had idealized some more admirable lessons as she did so.
i LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! it is definitely in my top 5 favorite books of all time. i only wish i had read it BEFORE seeing the movie, because i realize how badly certain characters were cast (except Edward- he makes me swoon- in the book and the movie!) this is such a great story. im not usually into vampire books but i love the take on it. im starting the next book tomorrow. i wish the series didnt have an ending!
The first book in the series was great. Though I read it last since I seen the movie first. I will say the book is much better than the movie. I think the movie was good in it's own right, just kind of a shorter version. My fave scene was the day they did blood typing in class,that would have been great in the movie. Also the back story about how Alice became a vampire they should have included that, but I guess that's why you have to read the book.Amazing Book.
Sucked me in, and loved every minute!
I waited 3 years to read this book. Avoiding the hype around it, and I was sure I was not going to like it. I am a young adult and thought it was more for the teen crowd. But my mom liked it - so I gave it a chance. I was actually surprised how much I did enjoy it. Parts were full of teenage drama, but that was expected. I enjoyed Edward's character - stirring the inner teenager in me. Who doesn't like a good romantic interest in stories?
I will give the second book a chance.
I will give the second book a chance.
If you like to read books about first love then this is the book for you.
THIS IS A FANTASTIC BOOK, WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO SAY. LOVE BELLA.
the twilight saga is my absolute favorite series EVER (so far), and I highly recommend it for anyone, any age. It's a book that i simply couldn't put down, each book had me obsessively flipping the pages every chance I had! 1 million stars!!
Definitely the best of the saga! You won't be disappointed!
I read this book in two days - great reading candy - not a book for the brainiac reader.
Very interesting, attention-capturing fiction. Has romance, but isn't trashy. I read the books after seeing the movies, and am very glad I did. The books explain so much that the movies can't.
Edward, one of the main characters, is old fashioned and believes in abstinence until marriage, and practices great amounts of self-control to stay true to his beliefs. Bella, the other main character, is typical of the insecurities and flaws of us women. It is a great rendition of most girls dream of being loved, protected & saved by the guy she loves. With a sci-fi twist.
I also like the way this series is written in the first person perspective...from Bella's viewpoint. Can't wait to read the full version of Midnight Sun, Ms. Meyer's telling of this story from Edward's perspective.
I have read it twice, actually. Am working my way through the whole series a 2nd time. I'm a female adult. My husband and my 16 yr old son both read & enjoyed the whole series. They are close Twilight fans, too. I personally wouldn't allow my younger children read these, yet. I think, IMHO, that the content is more appropriate for 14+. A bit edgy at times, and has heavy themes, along with a few curse words every now & then. Warning: the sexual content picks up considerably in the final book, although it is non-explicit, and is in the confines of marriage. Also, I found that the curse words increased a little with each book. Sad that she couldn't have simply left it out altogether; although I realize Ms. Meyer was trying to draw us a picture of Jacob's (& the other tribe member's) character, and the roughness therein.
Edward, one of the main characters, is old fashioned and believes in abstinence until marriage, and practices great amounts of self-control to stay true to his beliefs. Bella, the other main character, is typical of the insecurities and flaws of us women. It is a great rendition of most girls dream of being loved, protected & saved by the guy she loves. With a sci-fi twist.
I also like the way this series is written in the first person perspective...from Bella's viewpoint. Can't wait to read the full version of Midnight Sun, Ms. Meyer's telling of this story from Edward's perspective.
I have read it twice, actually. Am working my way through the whole series a 2nd time. I'm a female adult. My husband and my 16 yr old son both read & enjoyed the whole series. They are close Twilight fans, too. I personally wouldn't allow my younger children read these, yet. I think, IMHO, that the content is more appropriate for 14+. A bit edgy at times, and has heavy themes, along with a few curse words every now & then. Warning: the sexual content picks up considerably in the final book, although it is non-explicit, and is in the confines of marriage. Also, I found that the curse words increased a little with each book. Sad that she couldn't have simply left it out altogether; although I realize Ms. Meyer was trying to draw us a picture of Jacob's (& the other tribe member's) character, and the roughness therein.
AMAZING - My favorite series...right now.I love teh timeless LOVE and EDWARD CULLEN.... TEAM EDWARD baby.ALL the way..... You will NOT be disappointed in this series... it will capture your heart... a REAL page turner.
The one and only book I really liked in the series, I read it before it became a series and thought it a fitting ending to your typical teen fantasy book. Then there was more...this book was good, but it did not need to have sequels
My daughter raves about this book! She read it in two days; basically reading non-stop! Highly recommended :)
Sweet, wonderful, mysterious~ a really beautiful love story! I loved this book & couldn't put it down.
I have read 3 of the 4 in this series---the first one really captured my attention--the subsequent books totally involve you----can't wait to get to # 4!!!!!
I know this book was hugely popular and everyone is anticipating the movie. I enjoyed it well enough but it felt unfinished. The fact that it's the beginning of a sequel didn't escape me but I still like my stories to have all the appropriate parts including an end.
I read this book at the request of one of my students - she "absolutely loved" it and just knew that I would like it, too. Since the movie was soon coming out, I was well aware of all the hype and hysteria and had mentioned repeatedly in class that I didn't get it. My student was dead convinced that once I read it, I would get it all and join the masses. She brought it to me one Friday after school and I read it over the weekend.
I can't say that I loved it. I can't say that I hated it. I can admit that it was engrossing to read - at times, one of those "train wrecks" from which you just can't look away. The plot of the book is known to everyone by now - and it's a decent enough plot. Bella is a fish-out-of-water in high school, in a new town, and then in a relationship with a vampire and his extended family. It's certainly not the worst thing I've ever read, and I did in fact recommend it to a friend and to my sister, both of whom were going on long trips and wanted something to read during travel.
However, there are many, many flaws in the book. The dialogue at times is painfully bad, the descriptions of the perfection of the vampires become laughably trite and the overall story arc is weak to say the least. Don't go into this expecting to read the next "Interview With a Vampire" or anything on that plane - it just ain't it. Most likely, if you choose to read this, you will be entertained and you will roll your eyes from time to time.
PS - I did read all the other 3 books in the series - in my opinion, they get progressively worse and this is the best of the bunch.
I can't say that I loved it. I can't say that I hated it. I can admit that it was engrossing to read - at times, one of those "train wrecks" from which you just can't look away. The plot of the book is known to everyone by now - and it's a decent enough plot. Bella is a fish-out-of-water in high school, in a new town, and then in a relationship with a vampire and his extended family. It's certainly not the worst thing I've ever read, and I did in fact recommend it to a friend and to my sister, both of whom were going on long trips and wanted something to read during travel.
However, there are many, many flaws in the book. The dialogue at times is painfully bad, the descriptions of the perfection of the vampires become laughably trite and the overall story arc is weak to say the least. Don't go into this expecting to read the next "Interview With a Vampire" or anything on that plane - it just ain't it. Most likely, if you choose to read this, you will be entertained and you will roll your eyes from time to time.
PS - I did read all the other 3 books in the series - in my opinion, they get progressively worse and this is the best of the bunch.
Excellent! Couldn't wait to read the next one.
Simplistic characters in a cliche plot saved only by the author's somewhat interesting writing style. Meyer is a great storyteller— not such a good writer. Bella isn't even a character in the book so much as a conduit through which the reader is allowed to experience Edward; the entire thing caters to dramatic teenage girls who love to read about an ideal man and an ordinary girl. To hear it compared to Wuthering Heights and Romeo & Juliet is appalling and frankly shocking.
This series is wonderful. I just finished reading all 4 books for the second time and it was even better than the first. Already looking forward to reading them again.
Although I must say that I'm really disappointed in the casting of Edward for the movie.
Although I must say that I'm really disappointed in the casting of Edward for the movie.
I couldn't put this down, I finished it in one day. I am not a young reader, so I am probably out of the genre, however, I found this book captivating.
Love this series
Loved it!
I had heard a lot about this book, but thought it wasn't something I would like. I'm not a big science fiction or fantasy fan and don't have an interest in vampires. BUT, I really enjoyed this book! I read it in a couple of days. It's a good read and well written. The character of Bella is well-developed and I had empathy for her.
this book is really good. I strongly recommend it. Yes there are a few parts in this book that are a little slow and odd. this book is better than Romeo and Juliet.... that is if you like vampires and humans falling in love! It's really well written. It takes place when they are in high school and have to deal with a little high school drama but Bella (the main character)is very mature for her age and sees things differently she's not just another normal high school student that you see high school musical or anything geared to a younger audience. all in all this is one of the best books i've ever had the pleasure of reading.
This book is one of mine and my daughters favorite books. My daughter read it in 2 days and LOVED it.
As a 43yo woman, this book was presented to me by a co-worker who knows I love to read. Now I am a total Twi-con! In the Twilight saga, Stephenie Meyer creates life stories that are relatable and easy (actually, EASY) to read and enjoy. Bella is every girl at that age that just wants to be loved and appreciated by her quirky (divorced) parents and Edward is every girl's dream. I found these books to be very family oriented, pro-marriage and pro-life and would recommend them to anyone, even my Christian friends.
I read all of the Twilight Saga. I gotta say I loved Twilight the most. In my opinion it should have been a stand alone book because the other 3 books just seem so forced and draggy like they were just written for the sake of being written. I mean the end of Twilight implies that everyone lives happilly-ever-after you don't need 3 follow up to tell you that.
I just finished reading this book for the second time and it was just as captivating as the first. If your first impression is hesitant, I urge you to give the entire series a chance before judging ~ the story makes much more sense and has much more depth in its entirety. Although originally hesitant to pick it up (after watching the mediocre movie), I found the book to be so completely immersive, written in a style that just flows eloquently and brings out the deepest desires in all of us to find that Perfect match, that I couldn't put it down. Although I read it fast, I must reiterate that I was completely absorbed in the story from start to finish. A train could have crashed through my living room without me noticing. Nothing I say here could possibly do justice to this novel ~ It has quickly become my favorite.
I am tempted to never read any other books again because I'm afraid they'll NEVER live up to my now high expectations. This whole book series is so addicting there are no words to describe it. Don't miss out...READ IT NOW! It is NOT just for teens either. I am a 28 year old married mother of 2 and I was hanging on every word.
Loved it! What more can I say. I read the books long before the movies came out, saw the movies and listened on cd. Can't get enough of it.
I loved this series...I fell in love with the characters and flew through all 4 books in 1 week!! I think it is for any age, not just the teens it was geared towards..I highly recommend it!
Perhaps I would have enjoyed this book if I liked regular romance novels. But I don't, because the relationships border on abusive and that is heavily romanticized. But they are for adults and if an adult wants a goofy story, so be it.
But 10 and 11 year olds reading the same stiff minus the sex? Yikes! Let the tikes grow into being a woman before they are thrust into the helpless victim role. If you grow up thinking it's not only normal but desirable for a boyfriend to act this way, they'll end up like Rhianna.
But 10 and 11 year olds reading the same stiff minus the sex? Yikes! Let the tikes grow into being a woman before they are thrust into the helpless victim role. If you grow up thinking it's not only normal but desirable for a boyfriend to act this way, they'll end up like Rhianna.
It's almost pointless to review this book (which is why I've held off for so long) because most people have already read it, and people are either going to like it or they aren't. There isn't really a middle ground.
The thing about Twilight is... if you were, or have ever been a 13 year old girl there is appeal there. I was a 13 year old girl once, and it totally spoke to that part of me.
On the other hand, the whole way through I found myself completely frustrated with the way it was written. There was seemingly no plot for the first 300 pages, just Bella describing Edward and her deep feelings for him. Lots of teenage angst, etc. etc.
You only really get to know the characters on a superficial level. The backbone of most good stories is character development, and the way those characters interact with the things and people around them. There's a TON of room to do this since vampires are a classic tragic character. Living forever, watching everyone you love eventually die, dealing with the slow loss of humanity, craving human beings as dinner - the very beings vampires once were. There's a lot there. Unfortunately, if you can't relate to the character's and the character's feelings/emotions/motivations none of that is very effective.
And really, I find myself unable to describe any of the characters in the book without mentioning their looks or actions. The best I can come up with (as far as the main characters) Is that Edward is mopey, and kind of a stalker, and Bella is clumsy and really whiney. But man, I could write a thesis on Edward's Topaz eyes.
It was also seriously annoying that Bella spent the whole book whining about how everything sucked when like... every person in her school went out of their way to be nice to her. Although, that is often how teenage girls act (I know that's how I acted) so maybe Meyer accomplished her goal here.
When it comes down to it, this is a quick and easy read that you don't have to devote too much brain power to. If you want to satisfy the 13 year old inside you who just wants to date a super cute boy who spends 24/7 (literally... he doesn't sleep) obsessing over you and doting upon you then this is probably a great read. For me, I moved on from that part of my life 10 years ago, and am interested in reading something a little deeper.
The thing about Twilight is... if you were, or have ever been a 13 year old girl there is appeal there. I was a 13 year old girl once, and it totally spoke to that part of me.
On the other hand, the whole way through I found myself completely frustrated with the way it was written. There was seemingly no plot for the first 300 pages, just Bella describing Edward and her deep feelings for him. Lots of teenage angst, etc. etc.
You only really get to know the characters on a superficial level. The backbone of most good stories is character development, and the way those characters interact with the things and people around them. There's a TON of room to do this since vampires are a classic tragic character. Living forever, watching everyone you love eventually die, dealing with the slow loss of humanity, craving human beings as dinner - the very beings vampires once were. There's a lot there. Unfortunately, if you can't relate to the character's and the character's feelings/emotions/motivations none of that is very effective.
And really, I find myself unable to describe any of the characters in the book without mentioning their looks or actions. The best I can come up with (as far as the main characters) Is that Edward is mopey, and kind of a stalker, and Bella is clumsy and really whiney. But man, I could write a thesis on Edward's Topaz eyes.
It was also seriously annoying that Bella spent the whole book whining about how everything sucked when like... every person in her school went out of their way to be nice to her. Although, that is often how teenage girls act (I know that's how I acted) so maybe Meyer accomplished her goal here.
When it comes down to it, this is a quick and easy read that you don't have to devote too much brain power to. If you want to satisfy the 13 year old inside you who just wants to date a super cute boy who spends 24/7 (literally... he doesn't sleep) obsessing over you and doting upon you then this is probably a great read. For me, I moved on from that part of my life 10 years ago, and am interested in reading something a little deeper.
What can i say? Stephenie Meyer is a GENIUS.
I loved this book
PaperbackSwap.com just sent me an email asking if I enjoyed "Twilight". As a huge Twilight Saga fan, ABSOLUTELY. I ordered the "hardcover" to complete my book collection. :)
Just finished reading the whole series. The books are much better than the movies. At times, Bella is bit insufferable, but the rest of the characters are done very well. I wasn't sure I'd like them, but my family insisted I read them. Glad I did!
I absolutly loved this book. From the first page it sucked me in and wouldnt let go! Great love story
Oh My Gosh
This is the best book ever.
It combines fantasy and realistic fiction in a really cool way
A must read!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is the best book ever.
It combines fantasy and realistic fiction in a really cool way
A must read!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have never read a book as fast as I read this. I just couldn't put it down. The way Stephanie Meyer writes is wonderful!!! I can't wait to read the second book.
I guess the city of Forks will never be the same again.
so great. if you like vampire love stories, you will love it!!
Good fluffy read
I really liked the book. It went into story lines that unfortunately the movie left out. At times I found the writing a bit juvenile but all in all it's a great story.
The sentiment of the book draws you into the wonderful world of sparkling vampires!
love this books made me want to read the rest of the series
everybody knows about this vampire romance. when edward cullen and isbella swan meet eachother in biolgy class, bella is swept into cullen's heart. even though edward is mean at first, bella is still convnced. see what happens next!
I refused to read this book for a long time after it came out. At the urging of a friend's mother, I finally borrowed and read the book. I could not put it down. Half way through, I called my friend to borrow the other three in the series. Now, I cannot wait to see the movies. I laughed out loud and cried real tears through out the series. What great writing, and one of the greatest love stories I have ever read.
i liked the book but it is most def. from a highschooler's perspective...
The only people who think these books are amazing are the ones who haven't been exposed to the first generation of this type of novel. (i.e. the teen vampire-romance novel sub-genre) For me, because I've been reading this genre since I was about 10, these books are pretty much old hat. Those of us who were actually reading the genre when it got its start, beginning with authors such as L.J. Smith, will have a hard time getting into these books. I went back and re-read my original copies of Smith's "Vampire Diaries" and they are every bit as good as I remember. Meyer's only redeeming feature is that she put a new spin on the vampire myth with the bit about them being "sparkly". Even the business about the Cullens being "good vampires" is old hat for anyone familiar with Meyer's predecessors. I think the popularity of this series is largely attributed to two things: Meyer very cautiously blending religion / religious beliefs and practices in with vampirism and pure dumb luck of striking the market at the right time, when this sort of thing was EXACTLY what the audience wanted. I've known people who are very opposed to reading vampire novels who loved this series because of the very Christian way she went about writing these. (A vampire who is 100 years old and still a virgin? Saving himself for marriage. PLEASE.) I personally found the religious spin to be lame, but as a creative writer I understand that there's a market for it.
I Just loved this book and I am not a young adult.I think this book could be read by anyone no matter what their age is.All my friends read it also and loved it.I loved that it was a romance between Bella and her vampire boyfriend Edward I found myself hoping that they would stay together forever they made a great couple even though he was 108 and she was seventeen and that she was human and he was a vampire.The middle of the story was so intense I found I couldnt put the book down and was hoping that everything would turn out all right.I read this book in 3 days and I found I couldnt put the book down I just wanted to keep reading to find out about Bella and Edward.The ending leaves you hanging so I went immediately and got the next book in the series New Moon.I was so excited about the book Twilight I had to tell my sister to read it.I will be telling everyone I know that they should read the book.I am also looking forward to seeing the movie.This is one of my favorite books and I will be putting it on my shelf as a keeper.I also give this book 5 stars more if I could.This book has everything romance and suspense.I will be reading more by this author.
I loved this book and the whole series! I couldn't put it down, I read the whole series in less than a week. It is a classic in the making. As a parent I also apprecited how moral it was since it is for young adults. The series is backed by sound morals and family values that are lacking in many YA books. Meyer promotes close family units, no drug use, safe driving, no sex before marriage, etc... Though there is sex in the last book it takes place after Belle and Edward are married which is more than I can say about many other YA vampire series. In fact it is Edward(the male main character) that encourages the abstinance throughout the series which I beleive is an excelent example for young males... one I would love to find in any boy who would date my daughters. All and all loved the books and would recommend them to anyone. They would make a great Mother/Daughter read.
WONDERFUL book. Had to pass it around I cant wait to read the rest of them. I have already read the second. Just started the third. I never thought I would like a book about vampires.
Ahhh, I got into this book so deep i couldn't put it down. Bella's quirkiness makes me laugh. The story sheds light on the mature boy and the funny boy, which is better for bella, you decide.
it is sooooo good plz get so worthit then get the second one called new moon
I loved this book and look forward to reading the next one. The writing is spectacular!
It's a love story with vampires in it, its a story of what everyone woman wants, to e everything to there other half...
Shows a different view of vampires.. definitely differs from vampire protrayal in True Blood by HBO. Easy read.. Heartwarming scenes between lovers Edward and Bella..
Am I a giddy school girl for loving this saga?!
A fun series to read!
I really loved this book! It totally sucked me in... no pun intended! I was a little frustrated with how long it takes to find out he's a vampire, because from the media you already know that. If I didn't know that before I read the book though, it would have been better. I really liked the "realistic" feel of the book. I don't normally go for vampire stories, but this one seemed so "normal". I also really liked that it didn't follow the vampire myths exactly, it was creative.
A quarter of the book was actually interesting. The rest? BORING. I struggled to read through the cheesy romantic crap to actually get to the good parts.
"I love him, but I am not sure." Become familiar with that line, it makes up about 400 pages of the 498 page book.
If I wasn't curious about how it ends, I wouldn't read the other books in the series.
Stephenie Meyer isn't as talented as everyone says she is, in my opinion.
"I love him, but I am not sure." Become familiar with that line, it makes up about 400 pages of the 498 page book.
If I wasn't curious about how it ends, I wouldn't read the other books in the series.
Stephenie Meyer isn't as talented as everyone says she is, in my opinion.
Surprisingly interesting read... I was prepared to hate the book (because anything that inspires that much fanaticism generally turns me off.) Read the book in one sitting- found much of it very entertaining, just a couple parts where the dialogue sounded off. Worth the time.
This entire series is completely captivating!
I didn't buy the books until AFTER watching the movie, and once I started reading, there was no stopping! Very addictive, keeps you wanting more!
I didn't buy the books until AFTER watching the movie, and once I started reading, there was no stopping! Very addictive, keeps you wanting more!
Great read, very detailed. Definately would recommend
Great book. Asked for the complete set for Christmas so that I may have them forever. Best books that I have read.
Great book- all four books are a great summer read. I took Twilight to the beach last year and finished it in 2 days. Unluckily I was there for another week not able to get the second one and went crazy! It's a wonderful romance series with unexpected twists that put you on your feet and wanting to read more.
I loved this book, It is really about the love story not a true vampire story. If you are a hard core Vampire fan you might not like this book. But if is a story you like, you will not be able to put this down.
I read this a long time ago but I do remember that I liked this series of books.
The story is TOO simple. There are so many adjectives it becomes annoying and mind-numbing to read. The book is filled with little details that are pointless, boring and unneeded. For example, from page 133: "With another sigh, I turned to my computer. Naturally the screen was filled with pop-up ads. I sat in my hard folding chair and began closing all the little windows. Eventually I made it to my favorite search engine." All that was relevant to the reader was that she got on her computer to look up something, buts it is stupid details like that that makes this book irritating fast. The story is enjoyable in its own way and it's very fast moving. However, the characters are flat. The attraction between Edward and Bella seems based on nothing but looks. Worse is the fact that Bella isn't even shocked or mildly surprised when she finds out that Edward can read minds and is a real-life vampire who craves blood, especially hers. The conversations between the two are repetitive and beyond corny. No teenager says "incredulous", which seems to be Ms. Meyer's favorite word. Overall maybe 2.5-3 stars.
It was a great book. At first I thought the Twilight series was going to be some stupid teenage romance or something similiar. But I seen the book on here and decided that since it was free, I would order it. So, I did and I really liked it. I went out and bought the next two in the series right away and I am now about to start reading the fourth.
Loved it, inspired my to read all 4 books.
I could not put this book down until it was finished. It's a great read with wonderful imagery. The book itself is a little used but the actual pages are in excellent condition.
I don't usually like books like this but found myself enthalled with this one. Liked the characters and story is so "humanized" I kept forgetting Edward is a vampire. Will have to read the whole series but need a break from the goulishness for now. Great book.
If you liked the movie you'll love the book. I finished this book in 2 days. One of those stories that pulls you in. I would recommend this book to anyone just not young adults. A must read.
I absolutely loved this book. I do not like scary books so even though my daughter has owned it since it first came out I had not interest in reading it. After much prodding from friends I decided to give it a try and read the entire series of four books in less than seven days. Great story. I would recommend to any woman to read it even though it is technically young adult fiction. An amazing story that kept me interested all the way through, I have read the entire series twice so far and am starting it again.
interesting
Great reading
I agree with her opinion of Forks, Washington, but the rest was a little tedious for me.
there aren't enought stars for this book or the entire series. I was not sure if I wanted to read it, and now having finished the four books in two and 1/2 weeks I am very sorry that there isn't another book.
Really good book! You will need book two because book one ends on a cliff-hanger. Small amount of horror, good for 10 year-olds. The characters are well developed and give you a good sense of the setting.
(10 year-old grandson)
(10 year-old grandson)
I loved this book. I thought it would be just a, blah...yeah it kept me entertained book but I fell in love with it. It really made me like a hoghschooler again, madly in love.
I'm surprized at all the bad reviews about the characters and the plot, yes the romance and the relationship is completely unrealistic, but that is the magic of it. Magic doesn't go by our rules or how we think things are supposed to happen. That's the point!
I must admit I would not wncourage this book foe IMPRESSIONABLE young girls.
All in all, a captivating book.
I'm surprized at all the bad reviews about the characters and the plot, yes the romance and the relationship is completely unrealistic, but that is the magic of it. Magic doesn't go by our rules or how we think things are supposed to happen. That's the point!
I must admit I would not wncourage this book foe IMPRESSIONABLE young girls.
All in all, a captivating book.
Once you start you cannot stop with this serious, LOVED IT!!!
My husband got me to book cuz he saw the word vampire. He knows I like to read and I love vamp\wicth\weird books. So i read it to make him happy. I had no want to read it in the first place, I was right. I hated it. Not that its not a good book. The story line is ok. The people and their story fine, for the most part. I just hated it. I hate Bella and her whinning. They took forever to get to the point. All i could think was "ok he's a vampire! move on!" maybe if i where a teen and did not have a clue about love I would like it. If I want to get giddy over a man saying I love you but I shouldn't I will read Jane Austn Book.
Although this book isn't horrible, it is not amazing either. It seems to be that only people with nothing better to read pick up this book. Those ignorant people that don't know that there are better books out there. But, then again, I can also see why everyone has bought into the huge hype of this book. But, again, it's only the people who don't know better. Those who haven't tried reading other great novels.
Love this whole series!
First book in the young adult vampire series by Stephanie Meyer. I won't go into the plot as so many other reviewers have done son, but I will say that this is one of my all time new favorite books. I absolutely loved the characters and the intense dialog and situations. This is book an absolute keeper.
I loved this book and the rest of the series! It's so addicting. Fun for grown-ups too. My manager was the one who got me hooked.
If you can remember your first love, how you ate, slept and breathed that person then you can understand this book. All of those emotions are captured in this book. I picked it up and started reading... I didn't put it down until I was finished. She totally captured the emotions and put them into words. If you are young and experiencing love for the first time then you'll relate, if you have already experienced your first love it will take you right back to that place in time, you'll get it!
I really liked it! I expected a corny vampire story, but it was actually very well-written. I'm looking forward to reading the Twilight: New Moon.
Reviewed by K. Osborn Sullivan for TeensReadToo.com
I have always been a sucker for vampire stories. Get it? Sucker? Vampires? Okay, enough with the bad puns, you get the idea. So when the woman who ran our school district's Scholastic Book Fair recommended TWILIGHT to me, I was intrigued. And when I cracked open a copy, I went from intrigued, to engrossed, to breathless with anticipation in a matter of about ten minutes. This is a fantastic book!
TWILIGHT is to blame for me walking around like a zombie for a week because I stayed up way too late every night reading it. TWILIGHT almost made me wish I was back in high school - but only if my high school were filled with unnaturally beautiful vampires, and one was fangs-over-heels in love with me. TWILIGHT is the reason I read fiction: it's a wonderful new story that sparks my imagination and transports me to another time and place. Have I mentioned that I love this book?
The plot in a nutshell is that seventeen-year-old Isabella Swan reluctantly moves to the rainy town of Forks, Washington. She soon discovers that in addition to the boring locals, there is also a family of vampires attending her high school. They are taking classes, driving too fast, and avoiding the cafeteria food, just like real teenagers. Since Bella is a magnet for trouble, she attracts the eye of one extraordinarily handsome vampire. It isn't long before she's smack in the middle of the vampire nest.
Described like this, TWILIGHT might not seem extraordinary, but it is. The way the story unfolds and the feel of the gray, cloudy setting really roped me in. I like the characters - I understand what makes them tick. Furthermore, this book's unique take on vampire lore is intriguing. I also enjoyed the humor that was sprinkled into what might otherwise have been a fairly serious love story.
This a well fleshed-out story that I highly recommend. But don't pick up TWILIGHT during finals week or when you're resting up before piloting a transcontinental airline flight. Accept the fact that you won't get any sleep until you've finished this whole, thick book. Then dive in and enjoy!
I have always been a sucker for vampire stories. Get it? Sucker? Vampires? Okay, enough with the bad puns, you get the idea. So when the woman who ran our school district's Scholastic Book Fair recommended TWILIGHT to me, I was intrigued. And when I cracked open a copy, I went from intrigued, to engrossed, to breathless with anticipation in a matter of about ten minutes. This is a fantastic book!
TWILIGHT is to blame for me walking around like a zombie for a week because I stayed up way too late every night reading it. TWILIGHT almost made me wish I was back in high school - but only if my high school were filled with unnaturally beautiful vampires, and one was fangs-over-heels in love with me. TWILIGHT is the reason I read fiction: it's a wonderful new story that sparks my imagination and transports me to another time and place. Have I mentioned that I love this book?
The plot in a nutshell is that seventeen-year-old Isabella Swan reluctantly moves to the rainy town of Forks, Washington. She soon discovers that in addition to the boring locals, there is also a family of vampires attending her high school. They are taking classes, driving too fast, and avoiding the cafeteria food, just like real teenagers. Since Bella is a magnet for trouble, she attracts the eye of one extraordinarily handsome vampire. It isn't long before she's smack in the middle of the vampire nest.
Described like this, TWILIGHT might not seem extraordinary, but it is. The way the story unfolds and the feel of the gray, cloudy setting really roped me in. I like the characters - I understand what makes them tick. Furthermore, this book's unique take on vampire lore is intriguing. I also enjoyed the humor that was sprinkled into what might otherwise have been a fairly serious love story.
This a well fleshed-out story that I highly recommend. But don't pick up TWILIGHT during finals week or when you're resting up before piloting a transcontinental airline flight. Accept the fact that you won't get any sleep until you've finished this whole, thick book. Then dive in and enjoy!
I saw the movie first, I wish I had read the book first. For a book that was meant for "tweens", I believe that from tweens to adults can enjoy this series. The book is much more detailed than the movie and I enjoyed it very much. This is a must read!
I love this book. I am not teenager by any means, but I am truely enthralled in the twilight saga. I could not put it down! I am re reading all the books again, and sadly for those out there, I will not be postig any of my Twilight books back on Paperback Swap. I love them too much to part with any of them.
Oh, this is a good and silly vampire love story. I'm looking forward to re-reading this series - particularly curious as to how it ends, though I am starting to doubt that Bella will ever become a vampire, or do anything heroic... Either way, they are good, fun and fast books, though with the big deal that they make in this one about how good Bella's blood smells, they should probably address the fact that she is a woman... or any of the other women they are around, for that matter....
This whole series is amazing. Read the first three books in three days. So much better than the movie.
Great book. So good that I finished all four books in the series. I was glad I caught on to this series later because I did not have to wait to read each one. You will not be disappointed!
I have friends who are absolutely crazy about this whole series, & went to see the movies, etc., so I read this first one. I feel it is more for teenagers. There are a very few parts that are intriguing about the vampires origins and very different lives than what most would imagine, but I am not much into fantasy (certainly hope it's fantasy!) and I did not like the book enough to read the next in the series.
Excellent book. I has a vampire that sticks to is morals. I girl who is not perfert. I has interweaving plots. It part of a good series. It show self sacrifice, not well practiced in today's society.
I've heard that this book appeals to both middle-school girls and middle-aged moms. I'm neither, but I used to be a schoolgirl so I gave it a whirl and tried to get back into that adolescent frame of mind again. (It's been a few years.) Couldn't do it. Even back then, I wanted characterization and intelligence and this book offered neither. However, as a manual of "how not to write", it is extremely valuable - i.e., making your character persistently, stupidly clumsy does not give them personality. Nor does wringing the thesaurus for every synonym for "attractive" when describing your vampire hero make him good-looking. Not when his actions loudly proclaim "schizophrenic, pent-up control freak."
This book was...blah. Just...blah. It reads fast, and the only taste that lingers after a few days is the realization of all the junk filler that padded out this puppy into doorstopper size. I mean, when the motions of eating ravioli and looking at the mushrooms on the plate are painstakingly dragged out, as well as the simple motions of putting a CD into a player, it screams for an editor's red pen. It reads like something off a vanity press. But, the Sims are hugely popular and 60% of that game is, what?, making sure you sleep, eat, and shower? Thrilling.
Although for the most part it's forgettable (and the urge to read Book 2 is non-existent), one thing did linger with me. Her dad put snow chains on her truck and she didn't realize it until she got to school??? What is she?? DEAF???? It was dumb crap like that that really made it clear Meyer was writing her own personal fantasy where logic and quality need not intrude. And didn't.
This book was...blah. Just...blah. It reads fast, and the only taste that lingers after a few days is the realization of all the junk filler that padded out this puppy into doorstopper size. I mean, when the motions of eating ravioli and looking at the mushrooms on the plate are painstakingly dragged out, as well as the simple motions of putting a CD into a player, it screams for an editor's red pen. It reads like something off a vanity press. But, the Sims are hugely popular and 60% of that game is, what?, making sure you sleep, eat, and shower? Thrilling.
Although for the most part it's forgettable (and the urge to read Book 2 is non-existent), one thing did linger with me. Her dad put snow chains on her truck and she didn't realize it until she got to school??? What is she?? DEAF???? It was dumb crap like that that really made it clear Meyer was writing her own personal fantasy where logic and quality need not intrude. And didn't.
Add me to the many fans of this book! I read it in 2 days and can't wait to start the next one, which I already have here!
I am in my late 30s with 3 small children. I kept hearing about "this Twilight thing", not really sure what it was all about. Then some friends recommended it to me and I finally decided to try it out, even though vampire stories are not really my thing. I am not a fan of the Anne Rice books.
To my surprise, I LOVED Twilight. I could not put it down! I rented the movie last night and I honestly thought the book was better than the movie. The book is intriguing. Why would a 17 yr old girl choose to be with a dangerous vampire as her boyfriend?
The book was an easy read and kept my interest the whole way through. I would highly recommend it, even to the skeptics (like me!) out there!
I am in my late 30s with 3 small children. I kept hearing about "this Twilight thing", not really sure what it was all about. Then some friends recommended it to me and I finally decided to try it out, even though vampire stories are not really my thing. I am not a fan of the Anne Rice books.
To my surprise, I LOVED Twilight. I could not put it down! I rented the movie last night and I honestly thought the book was better than the movie. The book is intriguing. Why would a 17 yr old girl choose to be with a dangerous vampire as her boyfriend?
The book was an easy read and kept my interest the whole way through. I would highly recommend it, even to the skeptics (like me!) out there!
The best one in the series: strangely compelling!
I'd say that, at best, this is a decent first draft of a novel. It should never have been published in this form. But as she's made millions from it, who am I to judge!
I read this book a few years after it came out, and I loved it. I read all of the books in the series, waiting patiently for them as they came out.Last year, I re-read this book...and realized just how...horribly written it is. The main character, Bella Swan, is a huge Mary-sue, and so is her love interest (and abusive boyfriend, no matter how you try to deny it!) Edward Cullen. The style isn't very good, and reads like a grocery list at times, explaining every little detail of Bella's daily life to us, that we couldn't care less about. It is also laced with purple prose that get really annoying after time.
The plot is cliché and comes in much too late in the book (Most of the book filled with Bella complaining about everything, and Edward and Bella looking into each others eyes, arguing about who loves each other more). SMeyer seems to have a very incompetent editor, if you notice all the grammatical mistakes,poorly misused words, and at one point, a spelling mistake.
She basically murdered the idea of Vampires, to the point where they're clearly unrecognizable besides the drinking blood. They sparkle, they have no fangs, They can't be killed by stakes, holy water, silver bullets, they don't have to be invited into your home to come in, they have a reflection, garlic doesn't bother them, they don't burn in the sun (THEY SPARKLE). They are NOT vampires, SMeyer just wanted to stick with the species that the boy in her dream was without changing him to fit it.
A lot of other things I could mention, but it is overall the worst book I've ever had the displeasure to read, along with the rest of the series.
The plot is cliché and comes in much too late in the book (Most of the book filled with Bella complaining about everything, and Edward and Bella looking into each others eyes, arguing about who loves each other more). SMeyer seems to have a very incompetent editor, if you notice all the grammatical mistakes,poorly misused words, and at one point, a spelling mistake.
She basically murdered the idea of Vampires, to the point where they're clearly unrecognizable besides the drinking blood. They sparkle, they have no fangs, They can't be killed by stakes, holy water, silver bullets, they don't have to be invited into your home to come in, they have a reflection, garlic doesn't bother them, they don't burn in the sun (THEY SPARKLE). They are NOT vampires, SMeyer just wanted to stick with the species that the boy in her dream was without changing him to fit it.
A lot of other things I could mention, but it is overall the worst book I've ever had the displeasure to read, along with the rest of the series.
I started reading this and could not put it down. I was hooked. One minute I was on chapter one the next I look up and its 4am and I am upset because I have to sleep! I was very very disappointed with the movie when it came out. I read this entire series in 5 days. And I have read each book of the series a couple of time each. This was my first vampire book. I did not know I liked reading paranormal romances before I read this book. Now 2 and a half years later I am kind of over it but I can't part with my copy.
I devoured this whole series! But if you are looking for great writing and thick plot this book and or series is not for you. It is repetitive and poorly written, almost so much so that you begin to wonder if that was Stephanie Meyer's plan all along??? I was practically brainwashed while reading it...so much FUN! It is seriously the most addicted I have ever been to books/reading so maybe it really was her plan.
I didn't read much. Hardly...to tell you the truth... until, my twenty one yr. old daughter told me to start reading these books. I could hardly put it down... I have read each and everyone in the saga...and I am pleased to say that I enjoy reading, now... This is the start of a action packed LOVE story. I really like that.
This book is awesome. I love it.
Fantastic book!! One of my favorites of all time.
Didn't read this one I couldn't make it through the first 100 pages. But I did see the movies. Enough said. Jacob or
Edward?
Hello Jacob! Why even ask warm, sexy, and built like a ..... well you know. To young for me anyway.
Edward?
Hello Jacob! Why even ask warm, sexy, and built like a ..... well you know. To young for me anyway.
An awsome serious it will leave you addicted wanted to ready the next one and the one after that !!!!
I read this before it was popular!
Yes, I'm going to be one of those people. :)
Yes, I'm going to be one of those people. :)
It's official, I'm in love with a fictional vampire.
Great book
I enjoyed this book. BTW, I am confused. Not trying to break rules here, but I have this book posted on my bookshelf, only with a slightly different ISBN. But isn't it the same book, essentially? Seems a shame that there is a waiting list for this ISBN version when I, and probably many others, have what is the same book just sitting around on our bookshelves. I apologize if I have violated PBS protocol with this. Truly, just wondering!
Could not put this book down. It was a great read!
Better than the movie! And make sure to have the other books ready, you'll want to keep reading right away.
I've put off reading this book for a long while. Finally, I decided I had to see what all the hype was about and found it to be an easy and fun read.
It is about a girl named Bella who moves from Arizona to Washington to live with her father. She's not too happy about this but wants her mom to be able to travel with her new boyfriend without feeling guilty. The town she moves to is Forks. It is a small, dismal, rainy town where not much happens. Bella starts school and makes friends easily enough. Her eye spies another group of students who sit by themselves in the cafeteria. She is at once mesmerised by their grace and beauty. After some time she ends up getting to know one of the kids at lunch whose name is Edward. From there her world turns upside down and Forks turns out to be not such a bad place.
All in all I liked this story. I can see why it would appeal to teenage girls. As for me, I'm an adult and it stilled caught me up in it. Why 4 stars instead of 5? The middle was a bit too slow. I was really into the book at first but about half way through I started wondering if this whole book was just a romantic tale. The same sort of thing kept happening between Bella & Edward. I thought that with vampires you'd have a little more "scare" appeal to it. Finally, it happens and things set off a little faster for me. I really enjoyed it then. I will be looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
It is about a girl named Bella who moves from Arizona to Washington to live with her father. She's not too happy about this but wants her mom to be able to travel with her new boyfriend without feeling guilty. The town she moves to is Forks. It is a small, dismal, rainy town where not much happens. Bella starts school and makes friends easily enough. Her eye spies another group of students who sit by themselves in the cafeteria. She is at once mesmerised by their grace and beauty. After some time she ends up getting to know one of the kids at lunch whose name is Edward. From there her world turns upside down and Forks turns out to be not such a bad place.
All in all I liked this story. I can see why it would appeal to teenage girls. As for me, I'm an adult and it stilled caught me up in it. Why 4 stars instead of 5? The middle was a bit too slow. I was really into the book at first but about half way through I started wondering if this whole book was just a romantic tale. The same sort of thing kept happening between Bella & Edward. I thought that with vampires you'd have a little more "scare" appeal to it. Finally, it happens and things set off a little faster for me. I really enjoyed it then. I will be looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
This is just an ok book. Not the greatest. The biggest thing that I think pulls in young female readers is Bella's lack of self confidence and "romance" part of the book. Your better off watching the movie, and this is something I never say. Only read if you love the movie and want to know more about the characters.
WARNING* While the first book isn't as bad as the rest in my opinion this book series shouldn't be listed as youth because it romanticizes domestic violence. Take away the fact that Edward is a vampire and it doesn't look too good anymore. The movie gives Edward a better personality. If your having your daughter read the books please explain that it is NOT ok for men to be controlling.
WARNING* While the first book isn't as bad as the rest in my opinion this book series shouldn't be listed as youth because it romanticizes domestic violence. Take away the fact that Edward is a vampire and it doesn't look too good anymore. The movie gives Edward a better personality. If your having your daughter read the books please explain that it is NOT ok for men to be controlling.
Having seen the movie, I had some idea what to expect. The love story aspect was much stronger in the book than in the movie as well as the overall detail level. There definately wasn't as much action. I understand having read the book why they changed/added a few things in the movie. There would've needed to be a narrator in the movie to communicate a lot of what was going on in the head of Bella. In addition making her an utter and total klutz probably wouldn't have brought the average viewer into the movie quite a much. I really enjoyed the book and am now reading #2.
AMAZING((: Once your done you automatically have to pick up book two, to see what happens next.
Do not read if you don't have a strong grip on reality! This book will make you believe that vampires are real!
One of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time. It is targeted to teens, but adults will enjoy the suspense. It is a "must read."
Wasn't sure I'd like this type of reading but, decided to try it and I love it. The Author keeps you interested through the whole book. It was hard to put down. If you haven't gave it try yet you're missing out on an excellent set of books.
I think that it is very good because it is very tense and nerve racking. It is also goes on 1 step at a time. Some books go on with tones of things at once so you lose yourself. I really liked this book.
Loved this whole series! I did watch the 1st movie, then read the series. Which i think was great bc the 1st movie was the worst, yet it intrigued me enough to gobble up this series. I have to Thank Stephanie and the Twilight story 4 making me a Reader again. I forgot how much i loved it! So i owe this series a lot! Besides it being a YA series, and me not being a young adult, i still adored it! It's a keeper and i do re-read it still! Give it a shot, its a great highschool story w/love and angst and vamps, whats not to love. :)
i LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! it is definitely in my top 5 favorite books of all time. i only wish i had read it BEFORE seeing the movie, because i realize how badly certain characters were cast (except Edward- he makes me swoon- in the book and the movie!) this is such a great story. im not usually into vampire books but i love the take on it. im starting the next book tomorrow. i wish the series didnt have an ending!
I absolutely hated this book!!!! It is the worst vampire book I ever read..full of cliches and unlikable characters....lousy writing, sheer embarrassment. The baseball scene make me physically cringe! Ugh!!!!!! I can't say enough about just how awful this book is.
Twilight is a beautiful first installment in the saga. anyone who like romance and/or adventure would love it. yes, it is hard to get into, but if you read along i gaurentee you'll fall in love. every time you read it. pinky promise.
Awesome book......:)
The Twilight books have been a joy to be able to read and talk about with my children.
I couldn't put this book down - read it in 10 days which is fast for me. The author pulls you into the characters and the story from the very first page.
It seems that a certain Stephenie Meyer is this year's answer to Harry Potter for the tween-/teen-aged girl set. My Mom mentioned the Twilight books to me in late October and asked if Haley was interested in them. I said no and that I hadn't even heard of them. By the next week, Haley had read all four and her friends were circling around Haley and each other to be the next one to read one of the four books.
Despite Amy's protestations (Di, don't do it. It's horribly written. You'll never get those hours back again!), I took Twilight to Mexico with me and started reading it. I actually only scanned the last quarter of the book because the day before Thanksgiving we spontaneously decided to go to the movie and I wanted to finish the book first.
You aren't going to read this much in my blog, but, THE MOVIE WAS BETTER THAN THE BOOK! You can relax now, there will be no more shocking revelations...in this post anyway!
I can understand the attraction between teenage girls and Twilight (along with the subsequent three books.) The basic plot is that a clumsy, somewhat self-conscious girl (Bella) moves to live with her Dad in a town in Washington where the sun shines about once a year. She makes friends quickly, but still can't seem to stop looking at and wondering about the four Cullen kids with their pale skin and unusual eyes. There's no spoiler here since everyone knows Twilight involves Vampires. Bella learns more and more about them through her friendship with Edward (the incredibly cute one, of course.)
I call this kind of book a "glorified movie treatment." It's all plot with little character development or visualization. My daughter was getting mad at me when I was reading and criticizing the mundane, repetitive and redundant writing. I'll just give you one example. A woman was described as "tall and statuesque." Well, the definition of statuesque is "attractively tall and dignified." So, word geek that I am, I found the use of the word "tall" to be not only redundant, but slightly condescending. Does she think her readers wouldn't know such a big word or have the initiative to look it up if they didn't?
The book could have also used a good editor. One example was when Bella was apparently "relieved," but was written as "relived." I wish that I could say that this book is so smart and internally witty that it was a play on words with the whole vampire thing, but that was not the case.
I read the book mostly to see what all the fuss was about. But, unlike the Harry Potter books, I didn't feel compelled to immediately devour the second book, New Moon.
The important thing to note is that my daughter and all of her friends, many of whom are not natural readers, DID feel compelled to consume all four books in short order. So, despite my pretentious book reviewing, I cannot find anything wrong with any book that gets teenagers excited about reading. Today they read Stephenie Meyer and maybe tomorrow they will read Daphne DuMaurier (although I admit I've only seen the movie of Rebecca). Searching for the next book, because their appetites are now whetted for books, they may find themselves at the library or bookstore or in Miss Di's study looking for the next great book. Di will restrain herself from handing them The Pillars of the Earth or A Fine Balance, which, while two of the best books ever, are voluminous and can make adults cringe. She will casually toss out some YA books that Haley has read that somehow landed on her hallowed shelves. She will restrain herself from handing over The Grapes of Wrath and instead suggest Marley and Me or The Lovely Bones.
Regardless of my take on this book, buy it (from your LOCAL bookseller, of course) or borrow it for your favorite teens and let them revel in the love of reading. They'll get to Steinbeck eventually!
from www.liveandletdi.com
Despite Amy's protestations (Di, don't do it. It's horribly written. You'll never get those hours back again!), I took Twilight to Mexico with me and started reading it. I actually only scanned the last quarter of the book because the day before Thanksgiving we spontaneously decided to go to the movie and I wanted to finish the book first.
You aren't going to read this much in my blog, but, THE MOVIE WAS BETTER THAN THE BOOK! You can relax now, there will be no more shocking revelations...in this post anyway!
I can understand the attraction between teenage girls and Twilight (along with the subsequent three books.) The basic plot is that a clumsy, somewhat self-conscious girl (Bella) moves to live with her Dad in a town in Washington where the sun shines about once a year. She makes friends quickly, but still can't seem to stop looking at and wondering about the four Cullen kids with their pale skin and unusual eyes. There's no spoiler here since everyone knows Twilight involves Vampires. Bella learns more and more about them through her friendship with Edward (the incredibly cute one, of course.)
I call this kind of book a "glorified movie treatment." It's all plot with little character development or visualization. My daughter was getting mad at me when I was reading and criticizing the mundane, repetitive and redundant writing. I'll just give you one example. A woman was described as "tall and statuesque." Well, the definition of statuesque is "attractively tall and dignified." So, word geek that I am, I found the use of the word "tall" to be not only redundant, but slightly condescending. Does she think her readers wouldn't know such a big word or have the initiative to look it up if they didn't?
The book could have also used a good editor. One example was when Bella was apparently "relieved," but was written as "relived." I wish that I could say that this book is so smart and internally witty that it was a play on words with the whole vampire thing, but that was not the case.
I read the book mostly to see what all the fuss was about. But, unlike the Harry Potter books, I didn't feel compelled to immediately devour the second book, New Moon.
The important thing to note is that my daughter and all of her friends, many of whom are not natural readers, DID feel compelled to consume all four books in short order. So, despite my pretentious book reviewing, I cannot find anything wrong with any book that gets teenagers excited about reading. Today they read Stephenie Meyer and maybe tomorrow they will read Daphne DuMaurier (although I admit I've only seen the movie of Rebecca). Searching for the next book, because their appetites are now whetted for books, they may find themselves at the library or bookstore or in Miss Di's study looking for the next great book. Di will restrain herself from handing them The Pillars of the Earth or A Fine Balance, which, while two of the best books ever, are voluminous and can make adults cringe. She will casually toss out some YA books that Haley has read that somehow landed on her hallowed shelves. She will restrain herself from handing over The Grapes of Wrath and instead suggest Marley and Me or The Lovely Bones.
Regardless of my take on this book, buy it (from your LOCAL bookseller, of course) or borrow it for your favorite teens and let them revel in the love of reading. They'll get to Steinbeck eventually!
from www.liveandletdi.com
I loved all of these books! Fast reads.
I thought this book was excellent. I was not able to put it down once I started and even got up in the middle of the night to continue reading.
Well, it's not Austen.
I loved this book - couldn't put it down once I got started. Now I want to see the movie!
This is a book when you get started you will not set it down. Get the book read it for yourself you will be very pleased.
This series was exactly as bad as everyone told me it would be.
Love this book. Personally, I think it's the best on in the series!
good book
This was an okay book but mostly for teenagers, a movie has been made from this book and it might be more interesting, the story is mostly for teens. Kind of like the Harry Potter series only this is for high schoolers and people who like the Harlequin romances. Will read the entire series for my own satisfaction.
Loved it, could not put it down!
Fun, a really quick read. Pretty true to the movie as well.
There are some creases on the front and back cover.
It's twilight. Do I need to say anything more?
Loved! LOVED! this book
The best vampire book ever!
SUPER!!!! believe it or not, more going on than Harry Potter!
Meyer is not as good a writer as Rolling, but the pace is much faster!!!!
As a grandmother (and retired school teacher), I LOVED it!!!!
Meyer is not as good a writer as Rolling, but the pace is much faster!!!!
As a grandmother (and retired school teacher), I LOVED it!!!!
Beautiful book about love and teen-age angust.
I have read this book probably around 6 or 7 times and it's still not boring. It's a wonderful love story that has a little action. The middle of the book gets a little boring, but other than that, I loved it. It's appropriate for ALL ages. Everyone in my family has loved it, and I even know a few guys who have liked it.. and no, they weren't gay. It's a two day read for me.
A great start to a great series!
Why do people read this -trash-, much less love it?
Pure and utter GARBAGE.
Pure and utter GARBAGE.
One of the best books I have ever read, you will not be able to put it down
I'm hooked just like everyone else!
A very good read I was surprized at how much I like the book
I am in love with this series. I couldn't put the book down.
IT was better than I had expected.
Couldn't put it down.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series.
Couldn't put it down.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series.
It hd a little bit of sower start for me. but it literally snuck up on me@ Suddenly I didn't want to put it down!
Can hardly wait to read the next one!
Can hardly wait to read the next one!
I actually loved this book. I thought it was great and i read it in one day!
This is one of the best series I have EVER read!!
good book- i got hooked on Edward!
Great young adult book. Perfect for teenagers and adults.
Wow! I happened upon a copy of this book and read it. Now I know what all the buzz was about. It's great! Kind of a Romeo and Juliet meets Good vs. Evil. Enjoyed it all the way through and was left wanting the story to continue...
I gave up on this book 2/3 of the way through. It's boring, entirely predictable. Yes, it may be early teen literature, but I've read lots of teen literature that's worth reading. this isn't. Bella is a poor role model. What are her redeeming qualities, anyway? Give the reading 'something' to admire, please.
I did not know this was a teenager's book or I would never have bought it. I tried to read it but found it very boring and about half way through I gave it up.
Teens think it is another "Harry Potter"
Teens think it is another "Harry Potter"
This book was just a little too perfect for my taste.
Bella is an annoying character who doesn't act remotely like her age (seventeen).
Edward is irritating, too.
And their relationship is sickeningly sweet.
I have to say that I looked up from this book about every 5 minutes and rolled my eyes.
I did enjoy the story, as Stephenie Meyer can write very well.
Overall, I liked this book for the entertainment value but I am not continuing the series. It's not worth my time or yours. Honestly.
Bella is an annoying character who doesn't act remotely like her age (seventeen).
Edward is irritating, too.
And their relationship is sickeningly sweet.
I have to say that I looked up from this book about every 5 minutes and rolled my eyes.
I did enjoy the story, as Stephenie Meyer can write very well.
Overall, I liked this book for the entertainment value but I am not continuing the series. It's not worth my time or yours. Honestly.
I could not put it down.
It was okay except I kept wondering what a 400 year old man had in common with a 17 year old girl.....
I really liked this book. I could not put it down!!
Bella is a cardboard cut-out of a girl whose main interests seem to be mooning away over her creepy boyfriend and cooking and cleaning for her all-but-absent father. For a girl who's been entirely set adrift by the adults in her life, she has surprisingly little emotional intensity. Instead, she falls for the vampire kid who shares her desk in science class and proceeds down the path to a typical (and poorly written) "star-crossed" romance. Neither Bella nor Edward are written with any depth, while the villains of the story remain much more interesting (although this is a tepid endorsement, at best). Please, could we have a teen heroine with some gumption and personality (not to mention depth of character)?
I finally read these books after a year of hearing about them from other "moms" my age. What a great book. I highly recommend the twilight books for anyone who loves stories about love and vampires.
I LOVED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!
Honestley it is the BEST book I have ever read. Couldn't put it down. I have since literally RAN to the store and bought the next 2 books in the series.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Honestley it is the BEST book I have ever read. Couldn't put it down. I have since literally RAN to the store and bought the next 2 books in the series.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
my daughter and her friends all loved this book. this is really a popular series
WOWWYYY CAZOOWWWEEEEE!!!! BEST BOOKKK EVAAAAA........ i enjoy pretending to be bella and thompson and i roleplayed this whole book (of course i had to adapt it into a script) but he was a NATURAL he was best as edward (because just between you and me he doesnt have enough muscles to be jacob BUT DONT TELL HIM I SAID THAT!!!!!!) but like ANYWAY holllyyyy guawk! for realzzzzzieeezzz best book in the world but i still love the part where bella and edward have sex becuase i like to pretend thats me so me and thompson do some more role playing!!!!!
This book was definately the best in the series. However, that's not saying much. I thought this book was poorly written with a bunch of big words stuck in there like the author was trying to pass a vocabulary exam by writing this book.
THIS IS NOT A TEEN BOOK!!!!!!!!!
This is beginner erotica for teens/tweens and I would not recommend this book to a teenager I don't care how much they will enjoy it, which, I don't know why they would enjoy it.
I don't have any plans to read this book again.
THIS IS NOT A TEEN BOOK!!!!!!!!!
This is beginner erotica for teens/tweens and I would not recommend this book to a teenager I don't care how much they will enjoy it, which, I don't know why they would enjoy it.
I don't have any plans to read this book again.
I didn't want to like this book, with all the hype of it all. But I did! It's cute and fun and romantic and "dangerous" all at the same time.
great for girls all ages. if you haven't read this series....you should.
A bit fluffy, quite original. I liked it much more than I should admit! Somewhat conventional in the male-female roles, but all-in-all a fun read.
A horrible beginning to a horrible series. Most of the characters are all straight cliches, and Edward is simply abusive. The storyline itself is typical, and while that could be excused if it had some strong characters, this DOESN'T. The writing style is amateur-ish and unneccesarily drawn out. To sum it up, it's basicly a middle-aged lady's wet dream that she decided to write and sell to ignorant teenage girls who haven't read anything else in their life. I would highly advise you not to read it.
If you're looking for a GOOD dramatic fantasy with real characters, may I suggest Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials, George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, or J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Just STAY AWAY from this. Somewhere along the way, someone just acidentally dropped this series into the hype-machine. That's it. HYPE.
If you're looking for a GOOD dramatic fantasy with real characters, may I suggest Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials, George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, or J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Just STAY AWAY from this. Somewhere along the way, someone just acidentally dropped this series into the hype-machine. That's it. HYPE.
I couldn't put this book down! And I am very very very pleased to say there is a sequel coming out. It is about a teenager who falls in love with a vampire.
Step aside Anne Rice, and move out of the way Ms. Austen, Stephenie Meyer has crafted a delicious fuse of horror and romance that embraces a new generation of readers with icy, loving arms. The first installment of a series which follows the tumultuous relationship between human and vampire, Twilight brings us the bookish and clumsy Bella Swan - nervous and unsuspecting of the life ahead in her new home of Forks, Washington. On her first day at a new school, Bella finds herself under the hypnotic and watchful eye of Edward Cullen, an extraordinarily beautiful senior whose eyes alone are home to a hundred years of secrets. As the two grow closer together, Bella begins to unravel the hidden mysteries of the Cullens, and learns that first love can be more than difficult... it can be deadly.
Great writing about a beautiful love story.
i really liked this book, and it was probaly bumped up to my 1st favorite book that i've read.!!!!!!!!!!:)))))) ;00000000 ;))))
I just couldn't get into this book. I found the story line to be boring.
I thought that most of the book was written as a typical teen story- about an outsider who happens to meet this gorgeous vampire guy...yea right, come on! I didn't really like it, just the last 100 pages. It was slow to really get going. Maybe I'm just too old for these kinds of books, haha.
EXCELLENT story!
I love this book, i would keep it for myself but i am ordering the signed copies
one of the worst VAMPIRE books written. I have never
lied vampire books that break the rules.
1) Vampires have no soul therefore they cannot love
2) Vampires burn to death in the sun!!
BORING!!!!
lied vampire books that break the rules.
1) Vampires have no soul therefore they cannot love
2) Vampires burn to death in the sun!!
BORING!!!!
