Review: Tempestuous by Lesley Livingston

WARNING: If you haven't read books 1 & 2 of the Wondrous Strange trilogy , then you probably shouldn't read this review. Especially since it may contain spoilers!

T e m p e s t u o u s by Lesley Livingston

Release Date: 12/21/10 (Hardcover)
Upcoming: Once Every Never

Publisher: HarperTeen

Age Group: Young Adult (13+)

Pages: 368

Source: Public/Local Library
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Kindle
Word Blurb: Magical, mystical, pretty good!

 

Synopsis-"'I don't love Sonny Flannery.' That's the lie Kelley Winslow told to protect the boy she loves from a power he doesn't know he possesses. Devastated, Sonny retreats—to a haven for Lost Fae that's hidden deep underneath New York City.
But Kelley's not about to let things end in heartbreak. To get Sonny back, she's got to find out who's after his magick—and how to use her own. She's got to uncover who's recruiting Janus Guards to murderously hunt innocent Faerie. She's got to help rebuild the shattered theater company she called family. And she's got to do it all without getting dangerously distracted by the Fennrys Wolf, whose legendary heart of stone seems to melt whenever he's around Kelley.
The intrigue and romance that began with Wondrous strange and Darklight come to a stormy head in Tempestuous, the breathtaking conclusion to Lesley Livingston's ravishing urban Faerie trilogy." Goodreads»»

Quick Thinking: Although not as magnificent as anticipated, Tempestuous was a satisfying closing to this amazing trilogy! Love is majorly tested...bad guys turning up most unexpectedly...hateful crimes and killings...intense fighting and spell-casting...griping best friends and roommate...Tempestuous carries all of the qualities that made me fall in love with this trilogy to begin with! From a joyous love to an exhilarating whirlwind of a plot all they way down to the humor pouring out of the characters, this third book once again leads fans into the wondrous unknown. Uncover the deeply puzzling events that have spanned across these three books alongside the fiery Kelley Winslow, and read as she fights to save the parents she never knew, a world she's only just discovered and the world that housed her, and for a love she's just turned away from. 

My Thoughts In-Depth: *Note: May not be spoiler-free.*  I was a little disappointed in this book, not going to fib. After that amazing ride in Darklight, I had expected the novel to go up a few notches. For this installment to be as explosive and as unparalleled as the second. But, it wasn't. Maybe, my expectations were a little too high. I just felt as if the trilogy ended too...neatly, I guess. I love that sensation when you're reading and everything has just fallen into place, but it felt more planned, more controlled. Tied up too neatly.

Added to that, the Sonny and Kelley conflict consuming almost the first half of the book didn't sit well with me. I was prepared for their separation, or thought I was. But, in truth, I hated every second they were apart. And I was actually pushed to anger when I saw how they were starting to realize attraction to other people, conveniently. It just bugged me, you know? While I got Kelley's reasoning for turning Sonny away, it just didn't seem entirely necessary. I live for Kelley-Sonny action and the fact that I was deprived for much of the book made me want to tear something up or throw something. You love him, so why aren't you protecting him by being with him and helping him?! Why couldn't you have trusted him with the secret lurking within him and help him the best you could instead of pushing him away?!

Sonny seemed almost abandoned by Kelley, and that bothered the hell out of me. I love Sonny to death. Really, I do. And to see what his shattered relationship with Kelley did to him was not fun. He was so lost and traveling in a daze. So much pain. It sucked, totally. When he finally decided to snap out of it, stop wallowing, and begin battling, I perked up considerably. One of the things that had me falling for this guy is his total concentration and ruthlessness in combat. Next to that is the well of sweetness and his utter devotion and love for Kelley.

One thing that came from this conflict between one of my favorite pair of lovebirds, was the cool twist in that, for once, the girl gets to do the turning-you-away-to-protect-you move and eventually save the day. Not the other way around. I loved that Sonny acknowledged how strong of a person Kelley was, and more, that she was stronger than him in a lot of ways. To see that he was proud of that... I believe that's why I began to fall for Kelley in this third addition. Before, I don't want to say I disliked Kelley, I just couldn't exactly connect with her or really like her for that matter. But, after seeing all the ass she kicked, experiencing her wit and toughness, I've got to say that I developed newfound love and respect for this girl. Plus, her powers and wings added to the appeal.

The faerie/paranormal aspect in this book, and the entire series actually, kept me engrossed in the story despite all that was going on with Sonny and Kelley. Livingston truly and remarkably managed to weave a classic Shakespearean tale, 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', beautifully with her own plot and twists of her story. So much so, that I'm now tempted to go ahead and read 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. The theater concept behind much of Kelley's actions and spells was incredible, too! It made the story all the more fascinating and intriguing, mixing in an element that not many authors have implemented in their YA works. Learning the ways of the theater, the fun and hard-work, certainly served as an appeal as well. And over the course of these books, I've really grown to love Kelley's theater family. Alec with his boyish charm. Q because of his insatiable craving for perfection and his snarky attitude. Gentleman Jack since he's just too cool...and well, he is a gentleman.

But, I have to say, my favorite of the side characters would be Tyff! Though, I wasn't too happy about not getting enough Tyff-filled scenes -_-! She's just so sassy and wise, and probably one of the best best friends ever in existence. She does a lot for Kelley, and though reluctant, is always willing to do more for her friend. Love that girl!

Needless to say, despite the fact that I wasn't blown away by Tempestuous, it was still a marvelous read, which, I'm happy to report, ends rather beautifully and satisfyingly! I'm definitely sad to see this series finish, as I did love it tons. But, on the other hand, I'm super excited to read Livingston's latest project, Once Every Never. I mean, what kind of title is that to start? I'm so intrigued. Can't wait!

Loved this Scene/Quote:

"...It was killing Sonny to have her standing there in front of him, close enought to touch and so achingly beautiful...His Firecracker...
'Don't leave me, Sonny,' she said softly.
It was too much.
He was across the space between them in two strides, and she was in his arms again. Sonny shoved aside his uncertainty for the moment and lost himself in her kiss.
'I cannot lose you again, Kelley,' he said urgently. 'I will not. Not again. You have to tell me the truth. If this is not...real...if it's not...'
She kissed him, silencing his doubts as he gave in to the elation of having her in his arms once more.
'Did that feel like a lie?' she whispered against his lips" (168-169).

Probably my absolute favorite scene in the entire book! Boy, did they makeup! :DD

Thanks for reading!