Afterlife

Evernight #4

by Claudia Gray

Destiny awaits Bianca and Lucas. . . .

Bianca and Lucas believe they could endure anything to be together. When fate transforms Bianca into a ghostly wraith and turns Lucas into a vampire—the very creature he spent his life hunting—they are left reeling.

There is only one place Lucas can turn for help . . . Evernight Academy. But the vampire hunters of Black Cross are still pursuing them, and a final battle between wraiths and vampires looms at Evernight. Bianca and Lucas are facing dangers on every side—sometimes even from their oldest friends and allies. They've overcome every obstacle life has thrown at them, but is their love strong enough to survive the challenges after life?

Book Details:

Format: Paperback Publication Date: 3/6/2012 Pages: 384 Reading Level: Age 14 and Up

Genres: Vampires, Young Adult, Paranormal, Fantasy, Romance, Ghosts, Paranormal Romance

360 pages, Hardcover

First published March 8, 2011

About the author

Claudia Gray is not my real name. I didn't choose a pseudonym because my real name is unpleasant (it isn't), because I'd always dreamed of calling myself this (I haven't) or even because I'm hiding from the remnants of that international diamond-smuggling cartel I smashed in 2003 (Interpol has taken care of them). In short, I took a pseudonym for no real reason whatsoever. Sometimes this is actually the best reason to do things.

I live in New Orleans. So far, in life, I've been a disc jockey, a lawyer, a journalist and an extremely bad waitress, just to name a few. I especially like to spend time traveling, hiking, reading and listening to music. More than anything else, I enjoy writing.

Reviews

[Wendy Holliday]

Update 2011:

Moving to the 'read' shelf, because I can't stand this on my 'to-read' shelf any longer. I will never read this. Reading other reviews confirms my initial thought that I have better things to do with my time, including but not limited to poking my eyes out, watching paint dry/grass grow, or cleaning my toilet with a toothbrush.

But, I can't delete a review with 33 likes, can I?


Update:

Giving up...I'll just pick it up when it's published.

I hate when people rate a book before they read it...even if they THINK it's just going to be epic.

[Arlene · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m an original Evernight fan and have been since the first book came out in ‘08. As with every installment, I eagerly anticipated each book to ease the cliffy pain Claudia Gray is so great at planting. Well, I’d be less than honest if I said that this book was a slight disappointment for me and I’m bummed with how it ended. After close to three years of being vested in this series, it ends in disappointment for me. *sighs*

I guess I wanted more for Lucas and Bianca. I knew these two characters were made for each other. As much as Balthazar made me swoon, I know Bianca belongs with Lucas and I didn’t feel they got what they deserved. Yes, they are together, but am I the only one that’s bummed she remained a wraith? Okay, yes this is a paranormal book, with paranormal creatures and all that good stuff, but a wraith?? No!! *shakes head in disappointment*
I should have known that Gray is crafty at her WTF twists. She pulled an epic one in the first book, but I never thought she’d end with a banger of all head bangers WTF.

In this final installment, Lucas seeks sanctuary at Evernight as he struggles with his transition in becoming a vampire. He must learn to trust his previous arch enemy Mrs. Bethany, but as he continues to let his guard down and build his faith in Mrs. Bethany, a rift begins to occur between him and Bianca. A plot is discovered and an Evernight worthy battle ensues. After the dust settles the casualties are accounted for and Lucas’ fate is in Bianca’s hands... her misty, ghostly hands.

As with the other books, the pacing of the novel is perfect and the characters all deserve a standing ovation, but when it’s all said and done, there was no real magic between Lucas and Bianca, and all I can say is that I was entertained, but not satisfied.

Not sure if I’ll continue with the new series Gray has coming. She seems to be fearless with her choices yet haphazardly so. I hope Balty fares better in the next series.

[Saniya · Rating 2 out of 5]

OMG! WTH! NOOOOOOOOO!
Did this series just ended or am I going crazy?! o_O
I am so not sure how I feel about this just yet...
I guess like:

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Ok... I am going crazy... This was like the last book of this series! I am so disappointed! Like how can Claudia Gray do this?! I was expecting alot more than just a book (which is the last book in this series) to be full of crap. Like, its Evernight... EVERNIGHT! The book I loved more than anything in my life. A book which I was freaking proud to own. This book doesn't even look like a part of Evernight! Was the author sleeping?! or feeling bored of this series?! =[ Two words which are full of awesomeness applies in this review: Epic Fail. o_o



Seriously... I am not kidding!
I really liked the first three Evernight books, so was very much looking forward to this one. Unfortunately, this book didn't quite work for me.

SPOILERS ALERT!

The Characters:
Bianca is so changed. Where is that sweet rocking girl who went to the prom? Who liked fun and being awesome? I loved Bianca when she was sort of the vampire. But a ghost? Na-ah gurl! I am NOT getting pass that! I am so not keen on the whole ghost thingy. I literally hated it. And Lucas was just now an ordinary guy, like, this whole plot wasn't working. Whether he was a vampire or a human, I wasn't interested in him at all because half of this book was about Lucas controlling his hunger which was so damn boring! Their relationship was a total flop and I wasn't feeling it the way I did when I read the previous books.

Bianca- I can't cry, I can't touch, I can't be visible to anyone, I can't do anything...
Me- You can just die... -_-
Lucas- OMGGGG! Noooo....!!! How can I live? How can I survive? How can I-
Me- Dude will you shut up! First control your freaking self. You are staring at my neck... -_-
Lucas- Opps.....

See what I am talking about?!

I love Balthazar! I just read this book because of him beside from knowing what will happen at the end of the series and all. He was perfect. He was hot and he was everything I want and I am so damn happy that he is going to be in the next installment without Bianca being involved in it And gosh I loved that scene when he took all of his clothes off and then Lucas says that Bianca's here then hes like "SHIT!" that bathroom going with me thing was real! =]. I love Patrice, shes so awesome! I love Vic. The reason I gave this book one more star is because of him, he was so funny and awesome and all! =D Hell I love Raquel! ^_^ I love everyone! Well maybe except for Mrs Bethany! Like she was so evil, especially when she simply killed Samuel and he ran into the forest. I was like "Woahhh! Now thats called evil!" Maxie and Vic, totally Awwwwwnnn! I wanted to know more about them, about their past and future too!

The Plot!
The previous books amazed me and I enjoyed them so much that I actually feel angry that this is how Gray decided to end the series. First off, it was so slow going and almost painful to read. I was totally taking breaks. It starts right where the last story ended. Lucas is a vampire and the majority of the book is centered around his struggling being a monster that he has spent his life killing. Which as I said before, is boring and frustrating. They are all forced back to Evernight and Mrs. Bethany to receive help for Lucas. Once there, we discover that Mrs. Bethany is gather wraiths so that she can become mortal again. For Bianca, she is a super wraith that has the ability to bring spirits over to the land of the lost where Maxie and Christopher are. Now like why the hell only she?! Christopher happens to be Mrs. Bethany's dead husband. Both were Black Cross hunters when supposed friends killed Christopher for his money. He became a wraith which Mrs. Bethany did not know. As revenge, Mrs. Bethany becomes a vampire and kills his murderers. She has spent much time trying to become mortal again so that she can die. Christopher ends up sacrificing himself to die with his wife in the end. This story didn't make any sense. I was expecting Bianca also to turn into a vampire in the end. I am just so sad. =[
Now Vic is like staying with Maxie for eternity? What about Ranulf? Balthazar decides not to try to become mortal. He's going to look after the Evernight horses and then what? Bianca's parents, off to London. Lucas and Bianca went through all that so that he can die and she can spend eternity alone? She asks him how he feels about giving up immortality and he responds as long as you remember me, then I'll be a small part of you forever?! This is not the undying love, hell, its not even love! I actually kind of hoped he dies so that she can spend eternity with Balthazar. At least he's willing to spend it with her.

All I could say is that I am so sad this series ended. I am so gonna miss Lucas and Bianca and I would give this book 2.5/5 stars. =[ I will miss all the characters. I am really hoping towards reading Balthazar... :)

This is not the end..... this is just the beginning.....

[Chelsea ✨Arielle’s Nebular Ally and Team Acrux✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5 Stars*

Ugh. It's been a week since I finished this and I STILL am upset by the end, a little...not that I wasn't happy....I was. But, then again, it also made me upset. But that's not to say it isn't my pregnancy hormones at work. Who knows? I LOVE Lucas-ADORE HIM-so I'll never forget this series.

I might come back and add to this review, but ATM I'm super sucked into the Morganville Vamps, so I'll likely stick closer and truer to those reviews...we'll see!

For more of my reviews, please visit:

[Heather (hungrycookiemonster) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Original review posted on: heathersworldofbooks


(SPOILERY and negative)

When I read the last line in the book, I first flipped to the next page to see if it continued on. I then got on the computer to see when book 5 would be released. Surprising there is no extra page or book 5. This is really the ending and I'm terribly disappointed.

Out of the 4 books in this series,this book is probably my least favorite. Bianca is completely unreliable in this book. Since she is a wraith now, Bianca isn't able to have a real active role in the book. Most of the time, Bianca seemed more like a creepy narrator who talks about what her friends were doing. As for Lucas, he loses a lot of the qualities about him that made the reader love him. Since becoming a vampire, he is depressed and on the verge of suicide (He only remains alive out of obligation to Bianca. Nope not alive because he wants to be with her, only because he is her anchor to this world).

I really enjoyed the series all the way through but I'm a bit disappointed with the way this series ended. I didn't feel that the ending left any closure for Bianca or the reader. Since Bianca is still a wraith, her parents are hesitate in accepting her, she has limited similarities with humans or vampires anymore, and she will out live Lucas. Also, now that there is no Evernight Academy, how are the vampire who want to learn about the modern world suppose to go (if this was brought up, I may have skipped it. I disliked the ending so I rushed through it)?

I'm also not buying the whole Lucas always be with Bianca forever because he will be in her memory. Um? What? So its okay if your lover dies...you will just live forever remembering him...0.o In addition, is Lucas really content on being with someone who fade in and out of this world.

I guess I was really hoping for a happily ever after and instead all I got was a lot of unresolved things.

[Karyn · Rating 1 out of 5]

This has to be one of the most disappointing books that I have ever read. The other books amazed me and I enjoyed them so much that I actually feel angry that this is how Gray decided to end the series. First off, it was so slow going and almost painful to read. It starts right where the last story ended. Lucas is a vampire and the majority of the book is centered around his struggling being a monster that he has spent his life killing. They are all forced back to Evernight and Mrs. Bethany to receive help for Lucas. Once there, we discover that Mrs. Bethany is gather wraiths so that she can become mortal again. For Bianca, she is a super wraith that has the ability to bring spirits over to the land of the lost where Maxie and Christopher are. Christopher happens to be Mrs. Bethany's dead husband. Both were Black Cross hunters when supposed friends killed Christopher for his money. He became a wraith which Mrs. Bethany did not know. As revenge, Mrs. Bethany becomes a vampire and kills his murderers. She has spent much time trying to become mortal again so that she can die. Christopher ends up sacrificing himself to die with his wife in the end.

How the story ends for other characters:
Vic - Not sure, he was left standing with Maxie. My prediction is that she stays with him while he lives with Ranulf.
Raquel and Dana - go on as lesbian lovers and have a normal life.
Balthazar - decides not to try to become mortal. He's going to look after the Evernight horses and then what?
Bianca's parents - off to London

Where was my HEA? Lucas and Bianca went through all that so that he can die and she can spend eternity alone? She asks him how he feels about giving up immortality and he responds as long as you remember me, then I'll be a small part of you forever. This is not the undying love that the story was centered around. I actually kind of hope he dies so that she can spend eternity with Balthazar. At least he's willing to spend it with her.

I can honestly, say that I think I hated this book.

[Wendy Darling · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really liked the first three Evernight books, so was very much looking forward to this one. Unfortunately, this series ender didn't quite work for me.

The events of the book seem pretty scattered and when action sequences finally happened, they seemed rather rushed and were described in a distant, brief way you might tell a story to someone who wasn't there. The biggest issues, however, were that Bianca just didn't seem as likable or interesting as a wraith, and the relationship between her and Lucas just felt off with its constant and repetitive push and pull. (More more push than pull, actually, and the "push" factors didn't really seem to be all that insurmountable.) There's a lot of talking about loving each other and recalling it in this book, but there's not much *showing* of it, and the ending, while realistic, might have been more emotionally satisfying if it had been a little less blunt.

Hopefully the Balthazar spinoff does him justice...

[~Tina~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

If someone told me that the Evernight series was going to be one of my all-time favorites back when I read the first book, I would have given them a funny look and ask; Did you read the WTF moment in the first book?!?
I'm so glad that I didn't give up on this series back then. I would have missed out on so much more. Gray pulls her readers through such an amazing forbidden love story and a fun filled world and despite those WTF moments, I loved every single minute of this much beloved series.

I don't want to say to much about this book, so I'll keep this short.
Afterlife was an awesome ending to such an amazing world. I loved it and thrilled that Gray remained true to her characters till the very end.

Lucas and Bianca love story has always been somewhat tragic, forbidden, doomed from the start. So, despite how much I dislike Bianca roaming the world as a wrath for all time, it's really no different then her as a Vampire- for all time. Lucas however has always made it known that he would rather die then become anything other then human, so in the end he got what he wanted, to be human and die human when ever that time may be.
So, yes, I'm content with the not-so-crystal-cut ending, and I'm thrilled that at least these two did finally find there happily ever after.

My heart goes out to you Balty:(

Congrats to Claudia Gray for the final installment, in this series.
I had such a blast in this world and can't wait to read what she has in-store for us next!

Well done!

[Steph Sinclair · Rating 2 out of 5]

What a complete disappointment. I had high hopes for Afterlife. Particularly because I really enjoyed the third book in the series, Hourglass. I am an original fan of the first book and I eagerly awaited each book's release. However, for me, Afterlife fell flat.

Afterlife picks up exactly were Hourglass left off: we are waiting for Lucas to arise as a Vampire. And right off the bat, I had a sinking feeling I wasn't going to like this book very much. Why? After Lucas rises, he immediately takes on the role as (what I consider) the "tortured soul" character. And Bianca turns into, more or less, his psychiatrist. Lucas spent almost the entire book loathing his existence, while Bianca constantly kept telling him, "You are stronger than this," "It will get better," "It's going to be ok." It's weird, because even though this book is told through Bianca, it seemed to be all about Lucas' personal struggle with himself. I didn't need to be constantly reminded about it. It got old very fast mostly because it was the same dialog over and over.

Another thing would have to be the grudge Bianca held against Balthazar. Literally, in almost every chapter (until Balthazar confronts Bianca) Gray mentions something along the lines, "And wasn't it Balthazar who lead Lucas to his death?" It almost seemed forced. Either way it annoyed me.

This book also seemed to be very anti-climatic too. There were a few revelations, but nothing that blew my mind. It pretty much gained the reaction of, "Oh, really? Ok."

**SPOILERS**

However, my biggest problem with the book would have to be the ending. First off, it seemed rather rushed. Secondly, I would have liked to have seen the reunion of Christopher and Mrs. Bethany. I was actually looking forward to that part and it pretty much happened off scene. There was a small glimpse if them, then the cabin burns down and they die. Wow.

There were so many open ends for the characters. What happens to Vic, Randolf, and Maxie? I guess they just went home. *shrug* What was the whole thing with Skye? Her being able to sense the wraiths. I really thought Gray was going somewhere with that. But she just goes home too. Dana and Raquel just go back to their motel? Balthazar goes to tend the Evernight stables? Lucas decides to pretty much forget about his mom?

The biggest upset? Lucas is mortal and Bianca remains a wraith. They briefly have a conversation about the future knowing he will one day die and she will continue to live on. Bianca says she will cross that bridge when she gets to it and that she would rather have him for 50-60 more years then mourn him for all eternity. So he says something wack like, "You will live forever and being remember for eternity by you is all the immortality I need." Ummm...what?! Is that supposed to be comforting? What an awful way to end a book.

I wish I could have loved it, but I didn't. I found myself wanting to stop reading it several times and take it right back to the public library.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

AFTERLIFE (Evernight #4)
•
•
• ⭐️:4,0/5
•
•
💬: Destiny awaits Bianca and Lucas...Bianca and Lucas believe they could endure anything to be together. When fate transforms Bianca into a ghostly wraith and turns Lucas into a vampire—the very creature he spent his life hunting—they are left reeling. There is only one place Lucas can turn for help . . . Evernight Academy. But the vampire hunters of Black Cross are still pursuing them, and a final battle between wraiths and vampires looms at Evernight. Bianca and Lucas are facing dangers on every side—sometimes even from their oldest friends and allies. They've overcome every obstacle life has thrown at them, but is their love strong enough to survive the challenges after life?
•
•
🔰: Okay, I finally finished this series. This week had been an amazing experience while reading this books and the conclusion of Lucas and Bianca’s story feels like only the beginning (what a cliche I know) of their lives, and I feel so happy for them (ok, not so because it’s kind of tragic). The reason for Ms. Bethany to act the way she does was finally explained and omg, I was not THAT shocked but at the same time I gasped while reading about her past.
What really impressed me was Bianca’s behavior, she finally accepted her destiny and maybe true call. She finally understood who she could be happy and what was the right thing to do. Her ability to piece things together is what made me love her even more! And her love for her friends and family was something that was so real! Usually, the parents are something that is left out from the main plots of YA books and I’m so happy that they are important to her and the story…The whole thing about wraith being the soul and vampire being the body was so interesting...very refreshing coming from a book that I thought would be another cliche vampire love story. I don’t know was to say more, but I liked this book a lot and it was an addicting read.
Needless to say I need to read more about Balthazar and Vic, I’m so glad that at least we have one more book that is a solo book for our favorite vampire, Balthazar!

[N.L. Riviezzo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very disappointing end to the series. Left a lot of unanswered questions behind. There is also a lot of contradictions that come from the aftermath of the main events.

The book started off painfully slow and the pacing do not improve much as it progressed. It was rather agonizing to read and, at the end, one is left wondering - I just struggle through all of that for what? A big fat raspberry.

My other major complaint with Afterlife is writing structure. Ms. Gray's writing structure and style seemed to improve through the course of the first three books. This one was a major step backwards. So many run on sentences, horrid comma placement and abuse of the semi-colon. If you feel the need to use 2-3 semi-colons and 2-4 commas in one sentence , it is a clear sign that the one sentence should really be two or three sentences.

[cLo · Rating 5 out of 5]

O M G!!!!!!!!! THIS IS THE BEST BOOK FROM THE EVRNIGHT SERIES SO FAR!!!!!
I AM SOOOOO, UGG! I CAN'T EXPLAIN IT!!!!!!
it is soooo amazing! I was always left dangling for more info! It took me 2 and a half days to finish! I finished it today. I am soooo blown away! SADLY, I CAN;T BELIEVE I HAVE TO WAIT THE WHOLE YEAR TO GET AFTERLIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Can anyone give me some spoilers that will happen in Afterlife? Anyone?!?!

[Alyson Walton · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️I'm conflicted? I have been very sure that I was going to regret reading this series & hate it yet, i don't? I do feel this series didn't need to be four books long, but the second half of this book was quite engaging. All the action is there, and the characters have clearly defined roles. This book/series came to a satisfying end. I can't say that this is necessarily a series I would recommend, but I feel that is due to the fact that I am not the target audience. Yeah, this series is a little like Marmite. You either love it or you don't.

[Kyleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally. The last installment of the Evernight books. Evernight was my favorite vampire novel for a very long time. The originality and the amazing plot twist had me hooked. As the books progressed however, I felt like my love for them kept shrinking. Stargazer was a huge disappointment for me, but Hourglass really made up for the second one. Hopefully by the end of this review I’ll have a concrete answer as to whether or not I liked Afterlife.

Afterlife picks up directly where Hourglass left off. Bianca has died and become a wraith, and Charity murdered Lucas and he became a vampire. The irony that they both became what they most feared wasn’t even the slightest bit amusing. More than anything I was annoyed by it. I’ve felt ever since Stargazer that Gray has been “feeding the drama llama.” There was so much drama going on that it detracted away from the story. Instead of getting tense when yet again something happened, I found myself rolling my eyes. Ope Black Cross just popped up out of nowhere. Ha, Kate just tried to kill her own son. Surprise ambush! Wraith attack! Just uh. I didn’t once feel legit concern over anything that happened because I knew that it would quickly subside and they would move on. And guess what? I was right. Even the major “surprise” parts of Afterlife I called a couple chapters ahead of time. It was just frustrating that not one aspect of the novel had me at the edge of my seat.
It truly sucks that for the past 3 books I have been so unimpressed with the plotline, because I adore Lucas and Bianca. They are probably one of my all time favorite YA couples. Their love for each other goes beyond infatuation and physical attraction. Lucas would do anything for Bianca and vice versa. Yet at the same time other aspects of their life still remain important to them. They’re not blinded by their love for each other and still remain practical about their situation. I love both of their characters and their interaction with each other is just very well done. Their situation in Afterlife is even more frustrating than previously. With Bianca being a wraith and Lucas being a vampire, them ever having a chance of being together is slim to none. They never give up on each other, but the situation just blows. Those two deserve to be together and the fact that fate just keeps getting in their way is a huge bummer.
When the plot moves back to Evernight, yes that’s right they go back to the school, the storyline stabilized a bit more. It didn’t feel as forced as the beginning so I didn’t actually mind it all that much. As per usual I adored Ranulf and Vic. I would LOVE to have those two as my BFF’s. Ranulf, just god, freaking most adorably awkward 1300 year old vampire ever. He is always just so literal that it makes me laugh soooo much. I want to ruffle that bowler haircut of his so much. Vic is equally awesome. His commentary on everything that happens always lightens the mood and makes it more enjoyable. One of my all time favorite lines of the book dealt with Vic. Vic asks for a weapon to break down a door. Bianca turns around and says “I never thought they’d give him the flame thrower.” LMFAO! Just gah! Hysterical! Vic+ flame thrower=EPIC! I love those two to death.
It has been a while since I’ve read the rest of the books, so I can’t really remember my impression of Mrs. Bethany very much. However, in Afterlife I felt like I really understood her character a lot more. I got her motivation for her actions and what events in her life lead her to be the person she is now. While I understood why she was doing things, I still kind of think she’s a psycho. I don’t really like how things ended for Mrs. Bethany either. While she was an uncaring, ruthless psycho of a woman, I think she deserved some happiness in the end.
The whole wraith/vampire mortal enemies deal was FINALLY explained at length. It was nice to know more about the wraiths and their side of the story. When the wraiths were first introduced to the story I had the biggest WTF moment. I’m pleased to say that I kind of like the wraiths now. I more fully understand the concept of them and why they were so important to the story. If anything, the wraith spin on the vampire story is probably the most original idea in the YA world.
So in the end I enjoyed it. While the plot wasn’t all that gripping, it was nice to get some closure to Lucas and Bianca’s story. I loved the fact that Gray didn’t give us the perfect fairytale ending. She left us on an optimistic note, but nothing was perfect by any means. All in all, a good ending to a good series. :)

[Deniz Atakan Çamlıca · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bu neydi şimdi son muydu yanii? Hayatımda gördüğüm en manasız kitap sonlarından biriydi heralde... Hiçbir şey hiç bir yere bağlanmadı, kime nolduğu belli değil. Herşey en başa döndü. Bianca yine ölümsüz Lucas ölümlü falan filan... Ne işe yaradı bu kadar savaş bunca uğraş anlamadım. Seri son olarak tam bir felaket. Bu 2 yıldızı da Balthazar, Vic ve Ranulf için veriyorum. Herkese iyi okumalar ;)

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG (good) b(^_^)d
OMG (bad) w(O_o)w


I never expected the turn of events here in Afterlife, sure there are a lot of surprises and heartbreaking scenes. I learned a lot about wraiths, Bianca's powers, Lucas's struggle coping up with the vampire world, the story of Mrs.Bethany and her hidden agenda, of Christopher and a lot more but one thing is for sure I DIDN'T LIKE THE ENDING! (except they eliminated the threat). After reading the book, I was like WTH happened? I nearly cried over the ending. For some characters they've got their wishes or whatever they wanted and it's good but for some? well yeah, whatever.

please don't read this if you hate selfish persons because all you'll read are my selfish reasons why I didn't like the ending of Afterlife. YOU'VE BEEN WARNED! and I also want this to be less of a spoiler as much as possible.

I'm sorry but I have to say this. I'm a bit dissapointed because of what happened to Lucas at the end. I'm so selfish to think that Lucas is better to be a vampire so that he can be with her forever. Bianca is also as selfish as me for wanting him by her side forever, not considering at first that Lucas just want to become human again. But after what happened at the end, it will surely suck for Bianca knowing that..... (can't continue, it's just so depressing). Thank God I'm not Bianca because if I were her,I will surely find a way ending my own existence. I just can't stand existing forever. I didn't like Lucas's idea of immortality. It's just so sad.

Even though I hate the way it ended, I still gave it 4 stars. I'll be a liar if I said I didn't enjoyed the whole series, most of the parts were well executed and I'm really going to miss the whole gang namely; Vic, Ranulf, Patrice, Balthazar, Maxie, Bianca and Lucas. Thank God Ms. Gray made a book specially for Balthazar, I'll be pissed if he will not have his own story in Evernight series.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

English
Like the previous one was my favorite of the series, this was the one I liked the least.

It takes 4 stars because the saga after all I liked it, and although at first I did not get the relationship between Bianca and Lucas, in these last two books it did. It is what I highlight in this book, besides the friendships that are forged in this one. Relations are the best. I did not click with this book at any time, all the time I was waiting for something that would make me not be able to release it anymore, but... that did not happen. I kept reading to know the end of this saga, but the end more of the same. A disappointment. I did not like it very much and, besides, I felt that it was inconclusive. I missed some important things, it was all very fast...

After the previous book, and more being this the last of the saga, my expectations were high. And I was simply disappointed.

Español
Al igual que el anterior fue mi favorito de la saga, este fue el que menos me gustó.

Se lleva 4 estrellas porque al fin y al cabo la saga me gustó, y aunque al principio no me terminara de llegar la relación de Bianca y Lucas, en estos dos últimos libros sí lo hizo. Es lo que destaco de este libro, además de las amistades que se forjan en este. Las relaciones es lo mejor. No llegué a hacer clic con este libro en ningún momento, todo el tiempo estaba esperando ese algo que me hiciera no poder soltarlo más, pero... eso no pasó. Continuaba leyendo para conocer el final de esta saga, pero el final más de lo mismo. Una decepción. No me gustó mucho y, además, sentí que estaba inconcluso. Me faltaron algunas cosas importantes, fue todo muy precipitado...

Después del anterior libro, y más siendo este el último de la saga, mis expectativas eran altas. Y simplemente me decepcionó.

[Kristy · Rating 3 out of 5]

After I finished the previous book I was let down. I really didn't know what to think of Bianca being a wraith, I wasn't excited about it... So I put off reading this one for a while. It fell into my lap, so I started it.

Well, I liked it more than I had expected. The ghost thing wasn't what I imagined. It was somewhat fun. I still fill like what was so wonderful about the first 2 is missing. Bianca and Lucas just aren't as much fun to read about. I'm not sucked into the story as much. For me, books 3 and 4 are flops. :(

Sidenote:
I am very curious/excited to see how Gray's new book 'Fateful' will turn out. It sounds pretty interesting.

There is also another book from Balthazar's pov coming out. ?? ? ?

3 stars

Bottom Line: Not terrible, not great, Just meh.

[Feyre · Rating 2 out of 5]

Tja, das klingt nach Ende. Nach einem furchtbar kitschigen Ende. Es ging doch alles sehr schnell am Ende und alles ein wenig zu conveniant... Insgesamt kann ich nur wieder sagen, dass wer die ersten Bände mochte, wohl auch den Rest mögen wird.

[Kaysi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay... power reading done!!!

I have not had a lot of time to process the book, so this may be a bit all over the place!

**AND YES, THIS CONTAINS SPOILERS**

Firstly, I have to say that Bianca did annoy me more in parts of this book than the others. Mainly when it came to her attitude towards Balthazar, and blaming him for what happened to Lucas, especially after everything he has done for them in the past. Although, this was sorted in the end, Lucas is a big boy, he can make his own decisions (like he stated), I felt that the anger towards Balthazar was uncalled for... realistically love, if you hadn't of bitten him so many times before, it wouldn't have happened!!!! Pot, kettle, black - anyone?. She was also a little whiney in parts, a little stupid in parts and sometimes just downright ungrateful, but, on the Bellaesque scale, she wasn't too bad.

I did like the return of Dana and Raquel, although, I felt Raquel was forgiven a little easily - but thats just me. I am not the forgive and forget type of person! In saying that, I do agree that she did indeed redeem herself. I also liked the return of Patrice... she is a good character. I liked the way it touched on her past... I am yet to read the story about that, and this book made me want to read that more.

Kate - Oh My God!!!! Now I am not the maternal type, as most of you know, but really? Even I have more maternal instincts than that! How horrible! I will say, I did feel sorry for Lucas. Someone really needs to sort that woman out, once and for all! I cannot say how disturbing I found this part of the storyline - a mother trying to kill her son? *shakes head*

Vic and Ranulf... I still love these boys. They came out with some classic lines as always.. and their loyalty was never questioned! Even after Lucas tried to attack Vic, he was still his friend - albeit a little standoffish (understandable). One of my favourites with Ranulf was "we are among the awesome"... god I love that guy!!!! The main problem I have with this book is that there was no real ending for Vic and Ranulf.. well for any of the minor characters, but I would like to know what happens with them.

Balthy - what can I say about him? Ever the gentleman, ever the true friend, but yet, no happy ending for him :(

Skye.. I liked her as well. She reminded me a lot of Penn in Fallen. I was hoping she would end up with one of the boys - preferably Vic (since he is human and all), although that would have made for a very unhappy Maxie.

Maxie - she had her moments, and I actually thought she was a really good character. A ghost who stays connected to the living world cause of guy that she actually met after she died.. it would have been nice to get more backstory on her. She just seemed so cute when she "met" Vic and the whole thing at the end between Vic and Maxie was adorable. Once again, proving herself by putting herself at risk.

Charity... what a psycho! Yes, we already knew this of course, but come on girl, get a barbie doll to play with or something. I felt really sorry for Balthy having to do what he did... yes, the girl was crazy and all, but of course he still loved her. I was glad that he manned up and done it though.

Christopher... I clicked, as soon as he said about his wife, regarding his connection with Mrs Bethany. Obviously he had an anchor, being his wife, who was the only one who didnt betray him. And it was already established that he was eons old... so that wasn't hard to put together, so not a real shock there. But I still liked it. He obviously knew what was going on, to tell Bianca about it, saying they their paths were crossed etc - so why not actually tell her everything? I did feel sorry for him... having to watch the woman that he loved become what she did. I thought it was very nice of him to sacrifice himself for Maxie... he obviously knew that wasn't going end well. And, I suppose, in the end, the happy couple were together (even though it was twisted).

Mrs Bethany... no wonder she didn't get along with Charity, too much alike. They really should share a cell together in an institution. Wanting to become human just to die? Riiiigghhhhtttttttt.And speaking of that, why on earth when Bianca realised that Mrs B wanted to die to be with Christopher, did she not tell her that he was a wraith? Surely, telling her that, and that they wouldnt be together in the afterlife (no pun intended) would have brought some time? Stupid!

Now I have to say, my "stop reading, put hands over face and say oh my god moment" came from Samuel. In the classroom while he was taunting Lucas... What type of comment was that?????????????????? That was plain wrong!
My *headdesk* moment had to be when she told Lucas to bite her - it had already been said that wraiths blood is poisonous to vampires- stupid girl!!!!! There were a few other moments, but that was a good one for me.

So, all in all, I liked the way it ended for Bianca and Lucas... not quite the happily ever after that would have come out of some authors *coughstepheniemeyercough* but happy enough. The whole mixing blood thing was rather confusing, but, it worked. Originally I thought it didn't make sense, as if it worked for him, it should for her aswell, but of course, she doesn't have a body. I am just glad that they didn't "become one". All was good with her parents, although, a bit sad for Lucas that his parental figure was a lost cause. I would like to know more about the others - especially Balthazar. I wonder if the Balthy book will have events that take place after this? I hope so.

My major concern in this book - why on earth would she not want to see Balthy in the shower??? Crazy girl!!!! (yes, yes, I know Team Lucas peeps, there was a Lucas shower scene - but come one, even she admitted with Balthy what she saw she liked!) Bring on Bathtub Boy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Afterlife...
I must admit I was surprised how good Lucas seems to take to being turned a vampire at the start.
But then, it just showed the real power of the love that Lucas and Bianca shared.

....“He Whispered, Bianca?”
“It’s me, oh Lucas it’s me”
Lucas clutched me to him in an impossibly tight embrace and I wrapped my arms around his shoulders. I felt hot tears against my shoulder, I wish I would cry too. Our Legs gave out at the same time and we sank to the floor together.............

.............."I glanced at Lucas--the pale,cool, stillness of his flesh the bones--and thought bleakly, Well they always wanted me to end up with a nice vampire boy."..............

Kate wins mother of the year in this book (not)
........."You're a shell of what my son used to be. I love him more than a monster like you can ever know"..........

That whole scene was heartbreaking...Though were we really surprised? I wasn't. I never thought Kate would accept Lucas as a vampire.
One frustrating aspect for me was Bianca’s hesitation to ‘reveal’ herself to her parents, I understand her reluctance after witnessing Kate discovery of her ex-Black cross member son becoming a vampire, but surly Bianca should have known her parents did so much to have her (comprising with needing help from the Wraiths to have her)
(Fast forwarding to Bianca’s appearance to her father)
..........“You’re my daughter, that never changes”..............

Once again Balthazar and his calm nature show to be the rock. I really loved how he and Lucas bonded in this one. There was never any question in Bianca's mind. It was always Lucas. If there was a triangle here, there was never a good choice and a bad choice. Balthazar would have always been a good choice but he wasn't the right choice...he wasn't as we went on to learn Bianca's true other half. But he was a solid rock and the voice of reason in a lot of situations. Balthazar really helped Lucas work through his new vampire desires.
All the character seemed to show a more growth. Something that has always been my favorite aspect of this series is that we didn’t spend 2-3 books for the main characters to get together. Except for a time in Stargazer (where it might have wavered a bit) the true theme of this series has always been “I love you whatever you are” Lucas and Bianca have always shown this, and this book truly tested this. These two (mostly) showed how mature their relationship had developed staying true to each other and having trust in each other in situations (like with Balthazar and Skye.)
Claudia Gray once again gave her Characters some quick witted one-liners in this book. With too many to sit here quoting but a couple of my favourites would have to be from Ranulf (and I will never look at this drink the same again)

........."Vic bears you no ill will. He is outside drinking the Dew of the Mountain and will be glad to see you yourself again" Ranulf said to Lucas." ..............

And Maxie...

.............“Beside, Vampires are gross”..............

Another nice moment was Vic ‘seeing’ Maxie for the first time.

............Vic just kept staring at Maxie, she’d interacted with him throughout his life, but always invisibly, this had to be the first time he’d actually seen her
“Wow” he said, “Uh, wow hey there”.............

I could see what it was leading up to when Christopher mentioned his anchor (Oh yes of course it’s going to be Miss Bethany)
It was also an interesting twist with Miss Bethany being Black Cross before heartbreak leading her to turning into a vampire out of revenge.
Some of our loved characters from the previous books probably took a back step, to allow Ms Gray to introduce Christopher and finally reveal the back-story to why Miss Bethany became the person/Vampire we knew and why as we discovered she was trapping the wraiths.
I never really knew how the ending was exactly going to happen. Lucas’s ‘near’ death – Where was Ms Gray going to turn this... I was just privately begging this wasn’t going to turn into ‘The Host’ with Bianca inhabiting Skye.
It was winding up at the end with quite a few possibilities on how Claudia Gray could end this awesome series. In a lot of ways this series is still open to a lot of 'what happens now' possibilities. But isn't that the true magic of a book. The great author gives us a basis for our imaginations to interpret how we see free. I could continue wanting to know...what happened to Vic and Maxie? Do they develop a relationship? What about Ranulf, Balthazar, Dana, Raquel. I am sure with the closure of Evernight these Characters will not just go into retirement. Being a last book there are always many expectations. I think Afterlife slightly fell short for me compared to Evernight, Stargazer and Hourglass with this being more a 4 and 1/2 stars for me. Even though we are not left hanging or with a cliffhanger. In the end I am content with the ending of this one of my favorite series. Of course I love to know or be ‘told’ what happens.... But Claudia Gray leaves us with our open ended thoughts and our reader imagination on what will happen......

...........“I’ll never die, he said. Before I could protest, Lucas put two fingers on my lips, his smile seemed to fill the room with lights and I realized he was telling a deeper kind of truth then I’d ever known before
“You’ll live forever and being remembered by you is the only immortality I’ll ever need if I only live on as a part of you – Bianca, that’s my idea of heaven................

In which is what I truly hope is one of the most powerful truths of humanity.

[Liz Kittencat · Rating 1 out of 5]

¿Para qué quieres a Jesús si tienes una Bianca Olivier?

(Originalmente posteado en mi BLOG)

Bianca y Lucas han logrado vencer a la muerte, pero de una manera más bien triste y frustrante. Ella es, debido a su concepción “milagrosa”, un espectro y él un vampiro gracias a Charity. Frente a esta situación, Balthazar les aconseja volver al Internado Medianoche para que Lucas pida asilo y de esta manera protegerlo de la Cruz negra y de convertirse en un asesino sediento de sangre. Paralelamente podrán, junto al resto de sus amigos, buscar una solución para el estado en que Bianca se encuentra y desenmascarar los planes de la Sra. Bethany. En el camino conseguirán varias respuestas sobre la relación espectro-vampiro, sobre la vida pasada de la directora y la labor casi “mesiánica” de Bianca.

Directamente diré que novela es mala y sosa, con una redacción super básica, un ritmo lento y un vocabulario pobre. Mientras la leía la primera palabra que se me venía a la cabeza era “girlish”, algo así como “aniñado”, porque la trama y la manera en que está escrita dejan tanto que desear que este apelativo es lo único que se me ocurre para describirla. Ni siquiera es “inmaduro”, porque eso implicaría que ella puede mejorar, cuando lo que ha pasado a través de estos 4 libros es que la pobre Claudia Gray ha ido empeorando enormemente. De alguna manera ella ha “involucionado”, si eso es posible. La autora tenía una par de MUY buenas ideas que no supo explorar ni desarrollar convenientemente, inexperiencia que ha transformando sus libros en papel desechable.

Los personajes principales siguen fallado y carecen de toda simpatía:

Bianca es cada vez más simple,inmadura,celosa(¡Basta ya! Lucas se convirtió en vampiro por ti ¿Qué mas prueba de amor quieres?) y taaaan "ardiente" ¬¬. No necesitaba saber cada 10 páginas las ganas que tenia de irse a la cama con Lucas ni lo “rico” que estaba Balthazar sin ropa (Qué conveniente es ser fantasmas, ¿no? Así todas queremos ¬¬) La escena en que ella le pide a Lucas contemplarlo desnudo bajo la ducha,fue "too much" para mi. De verdad,me superó, y no porque sea moralista, sino, porque si vas a poner sexo, véndelo bien, no burdamente. Creo que ella hizo hincapié en ese detalla ello sólo para que no dijeran que Bianca se parecía a virginal Bella Swann, que resistió la tentación hasta que se casó con su vampiro brillante o para acentuar su "carácter adolescente".

Lucas me sigue pareciendo artificial y plástico. Nunca me gustó y ahora menos con esa pose de chico sufrido, aunque su nueva amistad con Balthazar me agradó bastante.
Como siempre los otros personajes secundarios me gustaron mucha más (no todos, Dana y Raquel también eran solo de decorado)y tuve una rabieta al darme cuenta de que volvió a desperdiciarlos, especialmente Charity, La Sra Bethany , Patrice y el altamente interesante Christopher, prescindiendo con ello el necesario condimento extra que deben tener los libros.

Odié la forma en que se resolvieron las cosas, especialmente el problema de las pesadilla de Lucas con Charity ¡Sin un conflicto REAL!¡eso era un tan buen recurso y vi que se perdía como el agua en el inodoro! De la misma manera me hubiese gustado que me explicaran eso de que los vampiros y los espectros pueden “resucitarse”...Osea ¿los vampiros son pura materia? Y "la esencia que hace que cada uno sea lo que es” ¿Dónde queda? Lucas vampiro es diferente a Lucas vivo ¿por qué? ¿Por qué chupa sangre? Ya que al parecer mantiene todas sus cualidades humanas. Bueno, creo que esto entre más bien en la discusión sobre el alma que es muy largo de abordar acá.

Hay millones inconsistencia en este libros desde que Bianca se puede “sacar” la “ropa” fantasmal (¿Qué la ropa también muere?), pero no cambiársela mentalmente, que Charity “cumpla” promesas, hasta que nadie piensa en construir otro refugio al estilo Medianoche para Vampiros luego que este se quema.

¿Es tanto pedir que una novela romántica de jovencitas te haga suspirar? Creo que no, pero hace tiempo que no me encuentro con una, lo que hace que me aficiones más a otros géneros y abandone poco lo libros YA.

Si alego tanto ¿Por qué terminé esta serie de novelas si la ultima me pareció tan mala? Fácil, aca las están vendiendo la Saga Medianoche, Oscuros y en los kisokos por $2990 (algo así como 4 Euros o unos 6 dólares) Van saliendo toda las semana y me dije cuando vi la primera entrega ¿por qué no la termino? sólo me falta un libro y está barato ¡aprovecha! Mala idea ¬¬.

Frase destacable

Lo Compré para impresionar a Graig. El mismo Craig que ahora sale con una chica llamada Britnee.Con dos ees. De algún modo esas dos ee lo empeoran todo - Skye

¿Alguien sabe por qué las autoras le están poniendo nombres tan feos o cursis a sus protagonistas como Skye o Eureka?

Resumiendo, no se la recomiendo a nadie. Busquen otros libros, hay muchos como para perder el tiempo en éste.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

My thoughts on this book are not very organized, so bear with me if you can.

Based on the assortment of reviews I read in preparation, I was honestly expecting this one to blow. I've never had a particularly forgiving attitude toward these Evernight books, so I wasn't excited to get started reading. But it really wasn't that bad. I thought it was much better than the third one (which I hated).

First, because it's fun to whine, here are the things I didn't like:

1. Bianca and Lucas are both rather boring characters. They're so wrapped up in each other, to the exclusion of everything else, that I can't force myself to care about them. I don't believe them as teenagers (or, in Lucas's case, a young adult). But to be fair, I must say that I liked Lucas much better in this installment than I had previously. I don't know if he actually improved or I just got used to him, but either way, I wasn't annoyed with Bianca for not picking Balthazar.

2. It was too long for its scant plot. The build to the climax took forever, in a mostly contrived manner. Meaning: whenever something came up, a clue as to where the plot was headed, Bianca would stubbornly ignore it instead of giving it any thought, simply to make the story last longer. I hate that. The author didn't even try to hide it after awhile, Bianca was pulling a full-on Scarlett O'Hara ("I'll think about it.. TOMORROW!").

3. Bianca supposedly had all this epic wraith power, which she NEVER USED. Until the very, very end. And when she finally tapped into it, there was no convincing explanation for how she knew what she was doing. It was just.. "oh man, I feel powerful! this is great! I feel it surging through me and I know this is my DESTINY!!!!". No build-up whatsoever.

But enough of that. Despite the fact that I can completely acknowledge that this was a mediocre book on an intellectual level, so what? That's pretty much the Evernight series in a nutshell, I wasn't expecting any different! What made this particular installment so enjoyable (sometimes... even moreso than the others? I'm not sure.) was the cast of characters. Lovelovelove.

Vic and Ranulf are HILARIOUS. Patrice is likeable. Balthazar is my fantasy boyfriend. There's nothing else to say, really. I think the winner of the Congratulations, You Single-handedly Carried This Book award goes to Vic. Every single (okay, almost) time I marked a funny part in the book, he was the culprit. If Claudia Gray writes any other book featuring him (or Ranulf, aka MR. AWESOME), I will for sure be reading it. I'm already excited on a Cocoa Puffs level for the Balthazar book she'll be writing. Any chance for some Vic in there, Ms. Gray? Pleeeeeaasssee?????

All in all: Afterlife was readable and generally enjoyable. I didn't think the quality was significantly higher or lower than the rest of the series as a whole, but your mileage may vary. If you're a Balthazer, Vic, or Ranulf fan, odds are this book will put a ginormous smile on your face at least once.

[Damaris (GoodChoiceReading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

SPOILER ALERT! SPOILER ALERT! SPOILER ALERT! SPOILER ALERT!


There is absolutely no way I can review Afterlife and not share spoilers. Don't say I didn't warn you! I will try my hardest not to include to many.

I decided to break down my review to the TOP Favorite Moments about Afterlife and What I did not like about Afterlife.

First, I have to say that I LOVE LOVE LOVE Claudia Gray's Evernight Series. Bianca and Lucas are one of my top favorite book couples and it breaks my heart to know that Afterlife is the final book in the series.


With that said, here is my TOP FAVORITE MOMENTS:

1. I loved that Claudia Gray picked the book up right where it left off in HourGlass.
2. This series does not lack mystery, suspense and action at all. Afterlife has delivered that once again.
3. I am still very much in love with Lucas and Bianca's relationship. In Afterlife, you see that love really does conquer all. Lucas becomes what he hates the most and Bianca becomes what she fears the most, yet they refused to let that tear them apart.
4. I wanted to cry at so many different points in this book because of Lucas. He really struggled with himself and tried his best to stay the same not just for himself, but for Bianca as well. There were so many times he thought he would lose himself, but he refused to let that happen and kept on fighting.
5. I have officially gained a huge crush on Balthazar and I cannot wait for his story.
6. In my opinion, all the characters in this series have progressed and evolved. They are all great and each one has come into their own at different points in the series, but in Afterlife I feel you get a complete picture of them.
7. Claudia Gray did an amazing job with the story and everything runs so smoothly and is so easy to follow.
8. You finally figure out what Bethany is up to and why she allowed humans to attend Evernight. You also learn a little of Bethany's past and why she is who she is. It helped me understand her better and her motives.


Did not like about Afterlife:

1. Even though the book ends with a happy ending, I felt that it was a little rushed and wished it could have ended a little differently.
2. I found Afterlife to be a little predictable. If you have read Evernight, Stargazer and HourGlass, you know that Claudia Gray always delivers an amazing TWIST! Afterlife did not have any shocking moments for me. At times I knew exactly what was going to happen next.



Overall, I give Afterlife 4.5 Stars, GREAT series and GREAT Finale to the series.

[Nicole - Too Weird To Live, Too Rare To Die- · Rating 4 out of 5]

“We can always hate that which we loved, and with a fire as great as our love once was.”

4 action packed with twist of romance stars

I have to say this was a really good ending to a series for Claudia Gray, because this was her first series that she finished and I'm happy the way it turned out, the only thing that bothered me was how at the end of the book that Lucas became human again and Bianca is still a ghost so I don't know how that relationship will turn out because one of them doesn't even have a body . I have to say this was the most action packed and surprised twist that I was even shocked about and than all the puzzle piece come together that I had questions even in the second book in the series. We got to meet new characters that are going to be in the a spin off book (which I am reading next) and they were kick ass as well but overall all the character have redeem themselves (except I still think Bianca should have chosen Balthazar) but it was a good ending to the book and I can't wait to read more books by her.

Bianca and Lucas have faced so many dangers from this relationship like dealing with black cross, vampire trying to go after them, and mad ghost trying to kill Bianca and make her dead. This is the biggest challenge that Bianca and Lucas have faced, trying to control the hungry blood lust that Lucas has from when Charity bit him. The only refuge that they have is to go back to the place that they thought they would never go too, Evernight,. The place that started it all the place that has caused so many problems that they don't know how it will go but the only problem is trying to figure out how it will be safe for Bianca too even survive in the school even though she is a ghost. The other biggest challenge trying to keep Bianca a secret from even people who think they are their friend but actually trying to use her as bait. This is the biggest task, will they survive? or will everything crumble at their feet?.

You have to take into dept that this is a very different Young adult novel unlike the other ones here that we read every day, these are the ones that first came around when young adult was started and to other people they think the heroine can't think for herself and always needs a man well this one I have to say is better than the other ones and this book should be given a chance before anyone says it's crappy just because it's another Young Adult, Read before you judge a book.

“Forget normal.” He grinned. “We’re going to be extraordinary.”

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was originally posted at Vampire Book Club.

Before we discuss Afterlife, the final Evernight novel, it’s important to remember where Hourglass (Evernight #3) left us. Claudia Gray did what we would have never imagined and let our lead characters die. Of course, in the paranormal world dead isn’t dead. Former half-vampire Bianca is now a wraith (aka ghost) and her nee vampire hunter boyfriend Lucas has been turned into a vampire, his greatest fear.

I spent the months since finishing Hourglass contemplating how Gray could turn things around. How can Bianca and Lucas move forward? Love can make people overcome insurmountable problems. So, in Afterlife, we find our star-crossed pair fighting for their love as their world comes crashing down.

Bianca has abilities most wraiths do not — she can manifest corporeal form and she can move from place to place with a thought — and the other wraiths want her help. Mrs. Bethany, the Evernight headmistress, is hunting wraiths. So many are captured and going mad inside Evernight’s walls as a result of her seek-and-destroy mission.

Dismissing the wraiths’ requests, she makes her focus Lucas and aiding his adjustment to vampiric life. Her goal is to help him retain who is amid his new bloodlust. And to keep him safe and make this process easier, there is only one place Bianca can take him: back to Evernight Academy.

Now Bianca is hunted. Lucas has to rely on Balthazar, the guy who wanted to be with his girlfriend, and his mom — the leader of the Black Cross — isn’t about to accept her newly vampire son back into the fold.

We’re keeping this one spoiler-free, so we’ll get to the point. Afterlife gives us just what we need: nonstop action, a realistic fight for love and lots of answers. We’re talking why Mrs. Bethany is the like that (oh, you’ll be shocked), why the wraiths wanted Bianca so badly and whether or not Lucas and Bianca will actually make it.

Gray managed to move this story along so quickly with enough turns for minor whiplash, and it works. It has the action I adored in Hourglass and emotional needs and secrets we were first introduced to in Evernight. We promise, Afterlife is a fitting end to the Evernight series.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Evernight series has always set itself apart in the world of YA vampire books. From the first book on there have been many surprises in this series that have kept it interesting. Keeping the series at four books feels right for the story. I don’t feel short-changed or that the series has been dragged out for too long. The author certainly does not shy away from controversial plot twists and has kept the suspense going strong. The last book HOURGLASS was a rollercoaster ride for her characters, as Bianca and Lucas found themselves becoming their own worst nightmare. AFTERLIFE is an exciting finale to the series, with the usual twists and turns. The conclusion provides answers and ties up all the loose ends. The ending is satisfying overall and in keeping with the series.

Appropriately the final book returns back to the series’ roots and back to Evernight Academy. Lucas needs some help adjusting to being a vampire and Evernight is just the place for him. In addition to supporting Lucas, Bianca also has her own path to follow. Bianca is adjusting to her new existence and her new wraith superpowers that make her the hope and envy of all the wraiths. She is also trying to maintain her relationship with Lucas now that he is a vampire. She hopes her parents will welcome her back even though she is now a wraith. Old favorites such as Balthazar, Vic and Ranulf are also at Evernight to provide their usual support and humor. Mrs. Bethany is up to her old tricks, and we find out some of her history that provides some insight into her behavior.

This book is evenly paced and kept my interest throughout. It builds nicely on the tension from the last book and kept me on the edge of my seat trying to guess the outcome for our favorite characters. The action builds to an exciting, yet bittersweet conclusion. I recommend this series for fans of YA paranormal series set in boarding schools. It is a fast-paced series full of surprises with plenty of action and romance.

It softens the blow to know that a spin-off book will follow featuring none other than Balthazar. BALTHAZAR is due to be released in March 2012.

[Brob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Afterlife continues Bianca and Lucas’ story. Lucas has become a Vampire and Bianca is a wraith. During the story Lucas struggles with the fact that he has become a vampire and Bianca is learning to deal with what being a wraith means. In order to help Lucas get control of his bloodlust they go back to Evernight and claim sanctuary for Lucas. Mrs. Bethany accepts him and gives him sanctuary. Although, Evernight has now set traps for the wraiths, or Mrs. Bethany has set traps to be more specific. Throughout the story Bianca and Lucas try to discover why the traps have been set and why.

I almost didn’t read this book because I didn’t really care for Hourglass. However, I am really glad that I did. I think this is the best book in the series and it had a lot more going on than in the previous books. There are more characters that are explored and relationships that show different qualities in the main characters.

I loved the way this book showed Lucas. He no longer is the knight in shinning armor for Bianca. He is vulnerable and lost as a vampire. He is forced to look into himself and redefine who he is. It was not the stereotypical male role. If anything, Bianca is Lucas’ knight in shinning armor as she loves him through his transition and unconditionally. She is the one that is there for him through everything and she is the one that keeps his emotions in check. It was a very refreshing role reversal. Bianca also becomes more assertive with herself and finds a purpose for her existence.

The ending really wrapped up all of the loose ends in the story but another book could easily be created. The ending is something no one saw coming and was amazing. I give Afterlife a 5/5. Afterlife comes out in March 2011.

Also on my blog at www.donotdisturbmybooks.blogspot.com

[Mel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Afterlife marks the riveting conclusion to the love story that began in Evernight. Having become what they feared most, Bianca and Lucas face a terrifying new reality: Lucas is a vampire, and Bianca is a wraith. They've overcome every obstacle life has thrown at them, but is their love strong enough to survive the challenges after life?

I was lucky to receive an ARC copy of Afterlife. I've read it in one night and thought it was okay. Not as good as the third one which I totally loved and is by far my favorite.

Afterlife kicks off right after where the big cliffhanger in book #3 left us. In Afterlife, Bianca and Lucas are trying to pass all the barries of what they are that might tear them apart. There is action in each chapter and also romance. Questions are answered, obviously. New chararacters are introduced. One in particulary I was interested to know more about and felt that Claudia was trying to send the message that this character was hiding something but it wasn't the time or BOOK (should I say) to show it just yet. Maybe in Baltazhar's book?

I felt like the book needed something more...but I just can't figure out what it was missing. Overall, Afterlife was an easy read that you'll like if you love the Evernight series.

And I just can't believe this is the last we'll see of Bianca and Lucas. *sighs*

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello everyone! Thanks to NetGalley.com along with Harper Collins I was able to read AFTERLIFE, the last part of Evernight series by Claudia Gray before its realease on March 2011.

It was so heartbreaking for me when I finished reading Hourglass a few months ago. And those were the same feelings I had when I began reading Afterlife. But Claudia Gray is a very smart author, she knew how to caught you so much into the story, and when you think you're going into a dead-end (no pun intended xD) there is another way out.. but just to get you to another desde-end (or not?).

It's amazing how the story develops, and it encourages you to just keep reading and reading. I totally love how the characters are described, we get to know more about the secondary ones which is great. Also we laugh a lot with jokes that were a way (at least for me) to feel more relax about the previous situation. I was then so sad about finishing it because is the end of the serie, but I was so much relieved.

Claudia Gray is amazing, and I don't get tired of saying it. Beautiful serie.