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The Vespertine (The Vespertine #1)

3.46 of 5 stars 3.46 · rating details · 2,001 ratings · 553 reviews

It’s the summer of 1889, and Amelia van den Broek is new to Baltimore and eager to take in all the pleasures the city has to offer. But her gaiety is interrupted by disturbing, dreamlike visions she has only at sunset—visions that offer glimpses of the future. Soon, friends and strangers alike call on Amelia to hear her prophecies. However, a forbidden romance with Nathani...more

Hardcover, 293 pages

Published March 7th 2011 by Harcourt Children's Books

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Sep 15, 2012 Sarah rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: zz-2012, characters-named-sarah, reviewed, grammatical-yodeling

This was an odd book. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it either.

Girl is shipped to the Big City to live with Distant Cousin & find a suitable husband. Girl & Distant Cousin become BFFs. Girl falls into Insta-Lust with an unsuitable Artist Guy. Girl suddenly discovers she has a talent for catching flashes of future events when she stares at the sunset. Distant Cousin convinces Girl to reveal her gift to Distant Cousin's other BFFs. Antics ensue, some of which are wacky & some of...more This was an odd book. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it either.

Girl is shipped to the Big City to live with Distant Cousin & find a suitable husband. Girl & Distant Cousin become BFFs. Girl falls into Insta-Lust with an unsuitable Artist Guy. Girl suddenly discovers she has a talent for catching flashes of future events when she stares at the sunset. Distant Cousin convinces Girl to reveal her gift to Distant Cousin's other BFFs. Antics ensue, some of which are wacky & some of which are deadly. Reason for Girl's despondancy is revealed. Cue the dramatic piano chords. Dun-dun-duuun...

While the author didn't use present-tense (THANK YOU), the voice had an odd rhythm. Sometimes it sounded authentic to the period (late 1800s Baltimore) & other times it was ethereal, like slow-plotted literary fiction, & the metaphors were jarring. The dialogue also had an odd cadence. I think the author was trying to be subtle -- something I wish was more common in paranormal YA -- but she was a bit too heavy-handed with the mysterious conversations. It wasn't so much what was on the page, but what was NOT on the page -- text gaps & chapter breaks obviously had development that we-the-reader were not allowed to see, & so the character growth was clunky & based on reading between the lines of overly-artistic brief conversations.

I also disliked the narrator's woe-is-me angst. Amelia threatens to kill herself at the beginning of the book -- so I assumed the basis was something equally dramatic. But no. It was only dramatic in an annoying way that appeals to tweens. (On a technical note, this was a very clean book; one quick scene of violence & only a couple (very) veiled references to 'the marriage bed' -- no sex, no bloodspray, no swearing.) Amelia also has an annoying tendency to judge based on appearance -- e.g., her sister-in-law is a Plain Jane, therefore she'll never understand how much it hurts to have one's heart compromised by sorrow & misunderstanding. *insert eye-rolling* It's especially silly because Nathaniel, the Unsuitable Artist, is boring. He doesn't actually contribute anything to the plot -- he just wears oddly-colored jackets to fancy dinners & lives in a loft with some other artist guy & has a Big Important Supernatural Secret that makes him the perfect match for Amelia, or so they claim. Whatever. I didn't like him at all, as you can tell. :P (My dearest Nathaniel, you're such a rebel. You wear bright plaid jackets to the park! *swooooon*)

But for all the overly-subtle writing style, it was nice to read a delicately approached YA PNR. (The world needs more of those, most definitely.) Amelia's 'supernatural gift' was interesting & I wish we'd seen more of the process. I thought the secondary romance was more interesting than Amelia's (possibly because Zora was more vibrant as a character); I also wanted to hear more about the BFFs, especially Sarah & her relationship with Caleb (view spoiler).

It wasn't bad, per se, but I doubt I'll read any continuations. Despite the dark tinges it's a very clean story; some adults like gentle YA, but I prefer mine on the edgier side. It reminded me a little of The Book of Spells in that it's suitable for a younger reader looking to branch into more sophisticated areas of the bookstore, but I'd stamp this one hit-or-miss outside the target audience.(less)

9 likes · like · see review

Mar 01, 2011 Katieb (MundieMoms) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-100-book-challenge, 2010-100-book-challenge, arcs-i-own, books-i-own, mundie-moms-review

A beautiful, rich, Victorian era story that is both haunting and romantic. The Vespertine reads like a classic and has a voice that stays with you long after you read it.

Set in the 1800's in both Baltimore & Maine, The Vespertine quickly made me feel like I was apart of this world. With Saundra's rich, vivid writing I was able to see the world through adventurous Amelia's eyes. Amelia is a character I really enjoyed getting to know. Upon arriving in Baltimore for the purpose of finding a hus...more A beautiful, rich, Victorian era story that is both haunting and romantic. The Vespertine reads like a classic and has a voice that stays with you long after you read it.

Set in the 1800's in both Baltimore & Maine, The Vespertine quickly made me feel like I was apart of this world. With Saundra's rich, vivid writing I was able to see the world through adventurous Amelia's eyes. Amelia is a character I really enjoyed getting to know. Upon arriving in Baltimore for the purpose of finding a husband, she falls for someone she shouldn't. Which of course makes me like her that much more, as her spunk, and fierce independence are what drew me to her character. Amelia and her cousin Zora become well known upon society for Amelia's gift to see the future. Having visions isn't always a gift, as not all of them are pleasant, nor are they always what Amelia thinks she's seeing.

To match Amelia's character is an equally lovable character who you could deem as swoon worthy with an air of mystery about him. Believe me, Nathaniel Witherspoon will have you swept off your feet in no time and you'll find him just as charming as Amelia does. With Nathaniel there is no second guessing what he's feeling or thinking, as he's very straightforward, something rarely seen during this time period. Maybe it's that streak of defiance, or that you get what you see with him that I admire the most. Both Amelia and Nathaniel stand out as they know their place in society, but they push that envelope, so to speak. I adored the respect he shows to Amelia.There's just something about Nathaniel that I was drawn to and all I can say is you need to read the book so you can meet him for yourself.

There are other great characters that make The Vespertine a highly recommended story, but it's Saundra writing that really captured my attention. She has a talent for detail, no matter how great or small it is and she really brings her story to life. It wasn't hard for me to envision the settings or picture the characters in my mind. Her romance is beautifully written, the lines between Nathaniel and Amelia are brilliant and her plot twists make you wish you could read the pages faster to find out what will happen next.

The Vespertine is a breath taking, intriguing read that will make you feel that you're apart of 1800's Victorian Era. It's forbidden romance, mystery and paranormal elements will leave you both satisfied and wanting more when you're done.(less)

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Jan 02, 2011 Sandy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2011, that-made-no-sense, weird-science, pretty-prose

The Vespertine is a haunting blend of romance, mystery, and the supernatural. Saundra Mitchell's writing is rich, and her imagery swept me away to another time. Her Victorian setting creates the perfect mood, and her descriptions touched all of my senses--it was like I could smell the scent of the apple, feel the touch of the silk, hear the music from the ball. Gorgeous writing, a lush atmosphere, and a forbidden romance combine into a heart-aching, intriguing novel.

I adore how a Victorian setti...more The Vespertine is a haunting blend of romance, mystery, and the supernatural. Saundra Mitchell's writing is rich, and her imagery swept me away to another time. Her Victorian setting creates the perfect mood, and her descriptions touched all of my senses--it was like I could smell the scent of the apple, feel the touch of the silk, hear the music from the ball. Gorgeous writing, a lush atmosphere, and a forbidden romance combine into a heart-aching, intriguing novel.

I adore how a Victorian setting can make your heart ache at even a brush of a hand. Saundra is a master at setting your heart aflutter with a longing look or a glancing touch. She makes even a kiss on the hand so beguiling. The delicious flirting and tantalizing brief touches between Amelia and Nathaniel had me reading at a feverish pace to get to the next moment when they'd be together again. However, I grew tired of Amelia's teasing games and bossy orders to Nathaniel. At times, she seemed too capricious and prideful, and she didn't seem quite penitent enough at the end for everything that had happened.

In addition to creating a captivating forbidden romance, Saundra brilliantly develops a touching friendship between Zora and Amelia. So many heroines in young adult books seem to be loners or have terrible friends, so the admiration and support Zora and Amelia offer each other is refreshing.

Where I feel The Vespertine falters is in the supernatural aspects. Amelia and Nathaniel's gifts are fundamental to the story, but we receive no explanation or exploration into the origins of these gifts. The characters seem to accept their gifts with no questions asked, and I wanted much more asking. It was like the paranormal aspects were presented, we were all supposed to accept them, and there were to be no questions about where it all came from. Who is Nathaniel exactly? Perhaps the sequel will delve into the origins of these gifts and provide some answers.

The underdeveloped paranormal aspects aside, Saundra Mitchell's The Vespertine is lush and romantic with beautiful imagery and lyrical prose. Prepare to be swept away by a story that will touch all the senses.
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Dec 24, 2010 Laura Ashlee rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2010, young-adult, print

I picked this book up at NetGalley, not thinking too much of it. When I began reading, I fell in love. First of all, I love historical settings. I love the refinement of the period. The way people spoke then just makes for better writing, as far as I'm concerned. Mitchell also leans toward the lyrical side in her writing style, which is fitting for this novel.

I was enamored with Amelia and Nathaniel. Their relationship is an interesting one from the start, and I loved watching it develop from pl...more

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Feb 17, 2011 Anthi rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-pnr, historical, net-galley

God!! How to start this review!!!!!!!!!! First, I need to say that finishing this book was a real feat of strength and took every ounce of patience I had in reserve. This is me after I finished the novel:

Now that we established that let's start with the review: Amelia is a 16 year old girl who moves to Baltimore and to her cousin's house in the summer of 1889 in order to get acquainted with eligible young bachelors of similar status and find a husband. She and Zora, her cousin, quickly become be...more

18 likes · like · see review

Apr 10, 2011 Mundie Moms & Mundie Kids rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2010-100-book-challenge, mundie-moms-reviews, 2011-100-book-challenge, 2011-release, arcs-i-own, books-i-own, signed-books-arcs

4 likes · like · see review

Nov 30, 2010 Erica (daydreamer) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, 2010-reads, swoon-worthy-male-love-interests, netgalley, copy-covers, really-liked, release-in-2011, ya

The Vespertine read like a late 1800’s dream dance, whispering on the wind, and spinning gracefully in the alluringness of a fire’s flames. It was beautifully written with the perfect feel for the Victorian age. The plot was intriguing, and the romance very nice. Finding out Nathaniel’s secret just firmly secured the intimacy and connection that he and Amelia shared. The haunting premonitions of Amelia’s sightseeing, while sometimes just instances of inconsequence for some people, revealed great...more

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Dec 28, 2010 Tatiana rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, ya

Eh, nothing to write home about.

Two things work for this story: the gorgeous cover and the book's concept - a mix of supernatural and historical fiction. But the final product is just not very enticing. The prose attempts to be historically appropriate but comes off as labored and too flowery. As for the plot, I only have read two chapters and have no will to continue.

I am sure there will be readers satisfied with this novel, but I have read better. 30 pages is enough page-time to recognize th...more

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Apr 18, 2011 Trisha Wolfe rated it 5 of 5 stars

I am a huge fan of the Victorian era. To the way the women dress, to the chivalry and etiquette, and most of all, the beautiful prose that authors wove into immortal tales. That being said, it’s hard for me to find a current historical novel that touches me as much as the classics. The Vespertine did just that, and it moved me. I fell in love with the relationship that Amelia developed with Zora, the kinship they shared, their companionship. I enjoy reading the banter of that time, two young gir...more

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Apr 07, 2012 Sophie Riggsby rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: dont-tell-others-youre-my-fave

Review/Giveaway published on 4/7/2012 on Page Turners Blog. Giveaway ends on 4/17/12
http://www.pageturnersblog.com/2012/0...

A rustle of silk. An empty dance card. And the wait, that agonizing wait spent wondering if the Boy-Who-is-Absolutely-Wrong-for-You will show up at the dance. We’ve all had that moment, haven’t we?

Saundra Mitchell pens a story of forbidden love, one in which the couple is not only separated by the rigid rules of society but also by their own secrets, which are kept hidden....more Review/Giveaway published on 4/7/2012 on Page Turners Blog. Giveaway ends on 4/17/12
http://www.pageturnersblog.com/2012/0...

A rustle of silk. An empty dance card. And the wait, that agonizing wait spent wondering if the Boy-Who-is-Absolutely-Wrong-for-You will show up at the dance. We’ve all had that moment, haven’t we?

Saundra Mitchell pens a story of forbidden love, one in which the couple is not only separated by the rigid rules of society but also by their own secrets, which are kept hidden. As a reader, I understood that Amelia is husband shopping but as a woman in today’s society, I completely related to her determination to shop for love and her place in a society which swaps calling cards for favors. After all, even today, it’s all about who you know and how to get the right introductions to the right people at the right time.

Let me take a minute to pause and admire Saundra’s ability to meld the historical setting with a paranormal element because she does it so incredibly well. The 1880s were a time in the United States when people dabbled in séances and attended magic performances and Amelia’s ability plays so well into this historical trend.

I’m trying hard to stay spoiler-free in this review but, I will say that what kept me turning pages was Amelia herself. I loved her journey of self-discovery from the country girl who arrived from Broken Tooth, Maine to the girl who everyone wants to speak to in the most coveted social circles of Baltimore, Maryland. I adored her smart, true-to-herself, steadfast ways. And yes, I fell in love with her Nathaniel. Feel free to add him to your list of Fictional Boyfriends. He’s naughty, slightly inappropriate but he has merits you will only discover when you read The Vespertine.

If you love a historical read with a paranormal twist, be sure to pick up The Vespertine. If you stay away from historical stories, pick it up, you will find yourself drawing parallels to current society. Go on, I dare you – “jump with me.”
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Feb 21, 2011 Ashlie rated it 5 of 5 stars

The details in the dialect and the description of the setting, with real history as it's backdrop, have you wishing you grew up in Victorian America, going calling and being forced to hold men accountable to the rules of courtship. It made me compare courting to modern-day relationships and think, "oh my goodness have we really fallen off the path..." This was such an interesting time period, revolutionary really. It's beautiful to have such a good story woven into the history and to be shown a...more The details in the dialect and the description of the setting, with real history as it's backdrop, have you wishing you grew up in Victorian America, going calling and being forced to hold men accountable to the rules of courtship. It made me compare courting to modern-day relationships and think, "oh my goodness have we really fallen off the path..." This was such an interesting time period, revolutionary really. It's beautiful to have such a good story woven into the history and to be shown a a Baltimore than none of us have ever known.

Usually its the characters that bind me to a story, and of course, these ones absolutely and without a doubt did, more so than any book has in a while, but what really entrapped me first was the time and the setting, the characters and how they fit into that time period and setting was enthralling, but came second to the world in which they played. The history and the very real portrayal of the era was...ethereal. It danced in your head long after the words & music stopped. It was so beautiful and so heartbreaking in places that it was entrancing. This story catches you on fire; you are Amelia and you suffer with her and delight in the anxiety and anticipation of forbidden love's next touch, kiss, embrace.

And Thomas? Nathaniel? Meeeeeelt! Swoooooon! Maybe it's a good thing we don't have courting and these boys are fictional (and that I live in Las Vegas and a million other factors:)...I would have ruined myself all too quickly. Even the supporting characters of Sarah and Mattie and charming and endearing, daring and adventurous. They brought to mind old childhood friends you could have once held sleepovers with. Amelia is trying to find her place, to create a place, not for her own sake, but for her brother August. Her role is strong yet discovering, she is a pawn and then learns to play the game. Her suffering is so real and I couldn't help but ache for her. She was an amazing main character. And Nathaniel, I can't get over him! Fourteenth or not-he is HOT and loyal and ridiculously loyal and bewildering and a million other wonderful and playful things. I'm sorry, I got caught in my longing ramble, did I mention Nataniel?

Please, please, please, PLEASE-READ THIS BOOK. If you want a story to set you on fire, melt your heart and leave you in embers long after you've turned the last page, this is the one you want. It will leave you smoldering.

It was perfect! Haunting, exciting, sad, magical, happy-in all the right places! I also must not fail to mention Mrs. Mitchell's incredible style and prose. Very detailed and specific, dramatic and incredible. The Vespertine leaves you curious at the right moments, with just the right amount to imagine or guess. If you like Jane Austen, you will love the class and magic and wit that Mrs. Mitchell writes with. I cannot praise her enough. Young girls will LOVE this book! (The older ones will too! :)
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Jan 04, 2011 Katie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, arc

What an outstanding debut [into my life]. I was really surprised and delighted that I was able to read this ARC. Saundra Mitchell is a writer to look out for.

THE VESPERTINE is about a young girl named Amelia who goes in search of a well-formed marriage in Baltimore. Add in forbidden romance, supernatural awesomeness, gift-turns-to-curse plotlines and you're in for a whirlwind that will catch your attention on fire.

The characters were so well developed I couldn't help but love them. Amelia was an...more

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Jan 25, 2011 Logan rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, own-bought, ya-historical-fiction

First impressions: The opening chapter takes place in the fall of 1889, which we soon find out is after the events that span the rest of the book. On first read it is captivating enough, with Amelia being imprisoned in her brother's attic, revealed to us as our "ruined" heroine. The brilliance of this first chapter is that as I progressed through the story, I could turn back and read it again, gathering more insights into the action. Just like the prologue to Romeo and Juliet, this opening chapt...more First impressions: The opening chapter takes place in the fall of 1889, which we soon find out is after the events that span the rest of the book. On first read it is captivating enough, with Amelia being imprisoned in her brother's attic, revealed to us as our "ruined" heroine. The brilliance of this first chapter is that as I progressed through the story, I could turn back and read it again, gathering more insights into the action. Just like the prologue to Romeo and Juliet, this opening chapter tells us of doomed love, and definitely got me interested in what events led to that outcome.

Lasting impressions: L'amour, l'amour! The relationship that gradually unfolds with Nathaniel is touching and mysterious and dangerous and...grand. Amelia knows she is not supposed to take an interest in this (by their standards) pauper, but she is intrigued by her strong attraction to him. After all, aren't we always drawn like magnets to those we shouldn't love? There is more to him than just his profession, however, and the more Amelia learns about Nathaniel, the more we understand why she doomed her reputation for him. These two left me aching for them.

Negative impressions: Every time I try to think of something negative to say, I talk myself out of it. I could say that I wish Amelia's visions had appeared sooner or taken a more prominent role earlier on, but then I like that the reader discovers them at the same time as she does. This novel is perfection, and I can't really think of anything I didn't like.

Overall impressions: For me, this is that book. The one that you know you will read over and over again. The one you will put at the top of your favorites list. The one that means something to you, even if you can't quite put your finger on what that something is.

Amelia is an everywoman...with a gift. She is eager and curious and shy and impulsive. She has this ability that she doesn't understand, and just when she starts to learn how powerful it can be, it's too late. She is rushed into the bustle of Baltimore, thrown into a whirlwind friendship with a bright star named Zora, and before she even has time to get her bearings, falls in love. Yet the story doesn't run away from her as you might expect. No, this story grabs her and won't let go, and I went right along with them.

Saundra Mitchell carried me through this novel with delicacy and ease. It swelled with period details, yet didn't get weighed down by them. The dialogue rang true, and told us everything we needed to know about the characters. Zora's mother is entirely revealed to us through her interactions with the girls, and she became one of my favorite characters because of that. Mitchell takes her time, revealing the details to us piece by piece, and I savored every moment. Each scene was like a sweet treat I wanted to take under the covers and unwrap where no one else could get at it.

For all of its lush setting and budding romance, this book really takes the cake with its ominous tone. Just as Amelia's first few visions come true, she begins to foresee more horrifying events. You would think, given that we know how Amelia's summer ends, that the story would lose its suspense, but it didn't. Instead, my heart raced with anticipation, desperate to find out what would truly come to pass.

If you like historical fiction, even in the slightest, you should read this book. Amazing, vibrant, and touching, this is what great books are made of. (less)

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Feb 02, 2011 Sara rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell stars Amelia, a girl who is sent to Baltimore by her brother to participate in the season and find herself a husband. She stays with her cousin Zora and the two develop a quick friendship. While at her first dinner party Amelia meets Nathanial an artist and they quickly find themselves in a forbidden romance which threatens the life she has planned. Amelia then starts seeing visions of the future which she shares with anyone who asks.

I liked this book. It seem...more

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Feb 16, 2011 Jess (Gone with the Words) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, read-2011, supernatural-aspects, historical, female-narrator, netgalley, autographed

Read my review here! --> http://www.gonewiththewords.com/2011/02/review-vespertine-by-saundra-mitchell.html

Music Monday: The Vespertine + Stolen by Dashboard Confessional

I really liked that this book began towards the end of the story, at a point where Amelia is not doing so well, then we are taken back to see how it came to be this way. It sucks you in instantly and makes you want to get to the bottom of it!

Amelia and Zora bond really quickly and their friendship is really endearing. They ac...more Read my review here! --> http://www.gonewiththewords.com/2011/02/review-vespertine-by-saundra-mitchell.html

Music Monday: The Vespertine + Stolen by Dashboard Confessional

I really liked that this book began towards the end of the story, at a point where Amelia is not doing so well, then we are taken back to see how it came to be this way. It sucks you in instantly and makes you want to get to the bottom of it!

Amelia and Zora bond really quickly and their friendship is really endearing. They act like sisters, teasing and playful but also protective of one another. One of the things that was different in this book, which I immensely liked, was that both Amelia and Zora had a love interest, and it wasn’t the same guy! They each had their own sweetheart to swoon over. No fighting with your best friend over a guy in this book! I loved that!

Zora’s love interest is the tall, blond, handsome, gentlemanly Thomas Rae. Zora and Thomas follow all the appropriate courting rules. They are the prime example of how courting should be in this time period. Unlike Amelia and Nathaniel, who have a more daring attraction, Zora and Thomas’s is more sweet. Nathaniel Witherspoon. A painter with a very interesting face and an even more intriguing personality. He is mysterious and his manners, for this time period anyway, are scandalizing! He is also off limits to Amelia, which of course makes him way more enticing to her.

Another thing that was different was the supernatural elements in the story. I haven’t read anything like them before. I do wish we would have learned more about what makes Amelia and Nathaniel the way they are though.

Amelia is having a great time in Baltimore, with her new friends, the dances, Nathaniel, her newfound fame…until one of her premonitions, a bad one, comes to pass. That was unexpected and it left me in shock! Then came more shocks! Heartbreaking ones that had me in tears!! Saundra Mitchell caught me unaware. I thought I was having fun, too! With the new friends and the dances and Nathaniel, then BAM! Tears.

The Vespertine leaves us with a bittersweet ending that I would not have any different. After finishing this book you will find yourself reliving it in your mind, remembering the girl’s gossip about first love and marriage, your first dance with the boy you dream about, the lush Victorian setting, and the heartbreak. This book is a must read! I would recommend it to everyone, especially people who are reluctant about historical fiction!

(This book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.com for an honest review)(less)

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Jan 27, 2011 Scribbler King rated it 2 of 5 stars

I hate to add myself to the 6 that have rated VESPERTINE 2-stars or under, but I didn't like the book.

Maybe other people won't, but I found VESPERTINE depressing. It was one of those books where you're watching someone's life go to the dogs and the author is trying to make keep reading anyway. Personally, I try not to read those.

There were a lot of good things about the book--the writing was nice, I liked some of the characters.... But the tone of the book was darker than I like.

Don't get me wro...more

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Mar 31, 2013 Andrea at Reading Lark rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 5-stars, arc, fantasy, historical-fiction, kindle, netgalley, read-in-2011, young-adult

Review Posted on Reading Lark 2/28/11: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2011/...

The Vespertine is sure to be an instant hit with young adult and adult readers alike. Saundra Mitchell has flawlessly married historical fiction with the paranormal to create a poignant coming of age tale set in Victorian Baltimore. This is a book for all the people who don't think they like historical reads. Mitchell's craft makes you forget everything except the characters and the plot. From the first page I was hoo...more Review Posted on Reading Lark 2/28/11: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2011/...

The Vespertine is sure to be an instant hit with young adult and adult readers alike. Saundra Mitchell has flawlessly married historical fiction with the paranormal to create a poignant coming of age tale set in Victorian Baltimore. This is a book for all the people who don't think they like historical reads. Mitchell's craft makes you forget everything except the characters and the plot. From the first page I was hooked and could not put it the down. I voraciously burned through the pages and was left haunted when I came to the end.

In a time where the rules of society held youth in check with an iron grasp, Amelia van den Broek must struggle with who she is and who society wants her to be. She leaves her home in rural Maine to live with family who will help her find a suitable husband. In this era, marrying for love was rare and Amelia finds herself becoming enamored with the handsome artist, Nathaniel Witherspoon. Due to his lower station he is a poor match for marriage, but Amelia can't help herself. In the end, she finds that it is more than just physical attraction that they have in common. Amelia has the ability to see the future while Nathaniel can travel on the wind. Their gifts will bring them closer together, but will society tear them apart?

Saundra Mitchell does a beautiful job of portraying the Victorian world with its strict societal norms and obsessions with the supernatural. She breathes life into her characters and settings so that the tale not only swirled about my mind, but also my heart. I felt like every tragedy and happiness that befell the characters was mine as well. There were moments when I wanted to weep, throw my Kindle, and smile. A book that can make me feel so strongly and have so many emotions is rare indeed.

One Gripe: The ending - I wasn't ready to let go of Amelia just yet. I felt like her journey was not quite over and I wanted to linger longer.

My Favorite Thing About This Book: The characters - they all came to life for me and I cared about them deeply

First Sentence: I woke in Oakhaven, entirely ruined.

Favorite Characters: Amelia van den Broek, Thomas Rea, Zora Stewart, Nathaniel Witherspoon

Least Favorite Character: Mattie Corey(less)

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Apr 19, 2011 Reading Teen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: clean-read

I'm beginning to realize that I really have a love for historical/period YA fiction, and this book certainly didn't disappoint! Add to that a paranormal aspect, and of course a fantastic romance, and I think it's just about perfect! This book was so much fun to read. The writing was elegant, without being difficult to follow or understand. There were enough plot twists and unexpected developments to keep me guessing what would happen next, and unable to put the book down until I found out.

I love...more

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Jan 13, 2011 Stewie's Mom rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: january-2011

A wonderful book! I loved the story. Amelia is such an interesting girl, and I really enjoyed her relationship with Nathaniel. I can honestly say I was blown away by the climax of the story. I wasn't expecting it at all. I wish there had been a little more to the story, only so it would have gone on longer, but I can't complain. It was tight without feeling sparse. I especially like the idea of fourteenths. As someone who has a connection to thirteens, I was entranced by the idea of hostesses hi...more

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Mar 01, 2011 Jenny rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: e-galley

The Vespertine is a somewhat scandalous little Victorian story filled with beautifully haunting language. The reader is thrust into the story near the end, right after a major conflict takes place, and experiences the events leading up to Amelia's current situation through a series of lengthy flashbacks.

In the early parts of the book, Amelia comes off as something of a hussy, by Victorian standards. The first line of the book informs the reader that Amelia has been ruined. The first flashback be...more

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Mar 09, 2011 AtenRa rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, ya-fiction

Vespertine takes place in 1889 and much to my surprise, it is written in the language of the time and not in modern language.It added to the whole atmosphere and mystique of the era but for me it was a bit tiring and confusing.Don't get me wrong, the book was brilliantly written, it just that sometimes I found it chaotic and because of that, the story wasn't as fluid as it should be,in my opinion.

Characters were all very likeable,but a bit underdeveloped.Amelia had this amazing gift of seeing th...more

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Mar 22, 2011 Kristi (The Story Siren) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-own, signed-books

The Vespertine is an excellent mix of historical fiction and paranormal! I was a big fan of Saundra's debut novel, Shadowed Summer, and I've eagerly been awaiting to read more by her. The Vespertine does not disappoint!

Saundra has a distinct writing style, and I absolutely love it. It was even more apparent in The Vespertine. I was instantly drawn into the world and fascinated by its characters. I was especially fascinated by Amelia. For some reason I felt an instant kinship with her. She's quie...more

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Jan 02, 2011 Jamie *careers tribute * rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: early-march-2011, netgallery-books

Vespertine isn't the average paranormal romance in the young adult section . It's extraordinary , Sandra mitchel brings a refreshing type of paranormal to the table . Introducing the character and the world of vespertine used breathtaking poetic prose to tell the story of a stubborn yet strong willed girl and transports readers into rich historical setting in irresitable victorian era baltimore 1800 a unforgettable story of forbidden romances, corsets , sophiciticated balls ,fortune telling and...more

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Jan 02, 2011 Rosa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, favorites, adorable-guys

This review is also published at http://living-for-books.blogspot.com/

Thank you to NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for allowing me to read and review The Vespertine!

The stars could have burned out around us, the moon could have fallen from the sky, and I wouldn't have known it. Not when he leaned indecently close and pressed his cheek against mine to murmur: “Tell me a secret”.

Amelia van den Broek has a secret: every evening, when the sun sets, she has visions of the future.

It is the...more This review is also published at http://living-for-books.blogspot.com/

Thank you to NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for allowing me to read and review The Vespertine!

The stars could have burned out around us, the moon could have fallen from the sky, and I wouldn't have known it. Not when he leaned indecently close and pressed his cheek against mine to murmur: “Tell me a secret”.

Amelia van den Broek has a secret: every evening, when the sun sets, she has visions of the future.

It is the 1889 and Amelia has been sent to Baltimore by her brother to find herself a decent husband. So during a dinner party, Amelia meets Nathaniel, an artist who is a fourteenth, a person that is hired to round out the numbers because the number 13 is bad luck. Even though Nathaniel would never be a suitable husband, Amelia can’t stay away from him, but Nathaniel hides dark secrets of his own…

When the sun sets that evening, Amelia experiences her first vision and is pleasantly surprised when it comes true. Soon both friends and strangers call on Amelia in hopes that they will have their future predicted. But Amelia can’t choose which visions she sees, whether good or bad.

So when one of Amelia’s worst visions come true, many of her callers begin to wonder if she is not only the mystic but also the cause…

The Vespertine is an amazing book; it is both haunting and very emotional. At first when I started reading the book I found it confusing, not sure where the story began and ended. I recommend to those that read this book to pay attention to the dates at the beginning of each new section of the story. They will come in handy and you’ll realise how the story is put together.

I loved the relationship between Nathaniel and Amelia, and although their relationship is forbidden by society, they don’t care what society thinks of them. Towards the end of the book, when there was only 10 or so pages left, I wondered how the story would end and worried that the ending would not be sufficient, but no, I loved the ending… and I’m sure that many of you will too! I cannot wait for the sequel! Springsweet will be out in 2012.
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Jan 18, 2011 BJ rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, historical, netgalley

The cover art sold me on this one before I even read the first page, the writing is what kept me gripped until the end. I love it when the prologue gives away just enough to make you think you know what's going to happen without really giving you anything at all. Beautifully written piece of work.

A tale of a girl who can see the future and how it brings her world down around her.

My full review here:
http://alwayshoping4more.blogspot.com...

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Apr 28, 2011 Parajunkee.com rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

I was really trying to get into this one. I had heard great things about it, but sadly I just couldn't do it. The writing was too abstract for me and I couldn't get into or even like the characters because the descriptions were too round and broad and not specific. I had no idea about Nathaniel and the "love" wasn't apparent at all, I couldn't understand the attraction. I'm sorry to say that this one fell flat.

The story idea was original, though, and the cover is absolutely beautiful, but...I d...more

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Dec 08, 2010 Proud Book Nerd rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, paranormal, ya

Wow, what a story. Very emotional, and very interesting.

Full review can be found on my blog: http://proudbooknerd.com/2010/12/08/r...

3 likes · like · see review

Sep 12, 2012 Marsha rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, literature-fiction, romance, young-adult, advance-reading-copy-advance-uncorr, series-entry

Baffling title aside, this novel gives us a glimpse into 19th America, with its rigid mores and caste system coupled with its rabid interest in the supernatural. The heroine has been gifted with prophecy but it’s the kind wherein the outcome is grimly certain and nothing anyone can do will change or circumvent it.

However, the novel suffers when many characters are thrown onto the page at once, occasionally overwhelming the reader as they do Amelia van den Broek. She herself is rather changeable...more

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Aug 05, 2012 Rhiannon Ryder rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Vespertine was one of those books which popped onto my radar as soon as it released but never made it into my basket, though I'd picked it up a million times, until the other day. Alas, too many books, too little time! It's like a personal motto with me. Seriously. I should have T-shirts made or something.

A lush historical paranormal romance, The Vespertine didn't disappoint. Amelia and Zora were a great pair who were just the right mix of rash and prudent, a refreshing look at teen girls wi...more The Vespertine was one of those books which popped onto my radar as soon as it released but never made it into my basket, though I'd picked it up a million times, until the other day. Alas, too many books, too little time! It's like a personal motto with me. Seriously. I should have T-shirts made or something.

A lush historical paranormal romance, The Vespertine didn't disappoint. Amelia and Zora were a great pair who were just the right mix of rash and prudent, a refreshing look at teen girls within the strict confines of turn of the century morals and social rules. I enjoyed how Mitchell showed the girls being improper in a variety of small ways to push the bounds, as I'm sure so many did. But I also loved Mrs Stewart (Zora's mom), and I appreciated the way she both attempted to coral the girls but also turned a blind eye to some of the frolics.
"I'm glad to see you go," Mrs. Stewart said, fussing with the luggage on the victoria... "You've done nothing but eat and drink us into the poorhouse."
Giggling, Zora twisted around, popping up to watch her. "You always said you would see me socially accomplished."
Mrs. Stewart offered an unladylike snort, then a grunt when she fixed the second strap. "That was before I had to resort to selling my hair combs for tea and cookies."....
"I should thank you very much to leave that tongue at home. If you should embarrass us with Mrs. Castillo..."
"Mama!" Zora recoiled, incredulous. "I would never!"
"That goes for Amelia, too," Mrs. Stewart said..."Whatever spiritualist nonsense you goslings have been up to lately, I expect none of it while you're in Annapolis."...
Zora rested her head against mine. "For that, I'm running away with an actor."
"Good luck finding an actor who could keep you in tea," Mrs. Stewart muttered.
The characters were lovable and the dialogue was fun and genuine. I could picture this house teeming with the energy of two young girls, swirling through the excitement of their first social season.

Amelia's breathy, often dreamy voice, and her sudden, and often rash, decisions fit perfectly with the theory of fire being her element, and I loved how Mitchell built it into her personality but also made it very normal teen sort of fare as well.

Most of all I loved the mystery and the slow build of the drama. The coiling disaster which builds around all the cast, slowly twisting around them until there is no escape was engrossing. How it tied in with everyone, in the inevitable conclusion, was satisfying as much as it was horrifying.

Boy was I relieved I'd left it so long since I was able to pick up The Springsweet directly. So sometimes I guess it does payoff to get behind, right?

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Jul 24, 2012 Farhana rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book was absolutely riveting. It reeled me in, right from the start, with the Victorian vibe, the corsets and gowns, the forbidden love with the realistic hint to all of it, and last but not least,the divine manners of the boys back then! And lastly,the supernatural twist. Who can resist a even a hint of supernatural? Although, the book hadn't really developed on the whole supernatural concept, the idea of it existing within the pages itself, has made it more than unique than it already is....more

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About Saundra Mitchell

Saundra Mitchell is a longtime screenwriter and author. Random House's Delacorte Press published her debut novel, Shadowed Summer, on February 10th, 2009. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children's will publish her next novel, The Vespertine in Spring 2011, with its companion novel, The Springsweet, following in Spring 2012.

For almost ten years, she was the sole screenwriter for the Book of Stories, On...more Saundra Mitchell is a longtime screenwriter and author. Random House's Delacorte Press published her debut novel, Shadowed Summer, on February 10th, 2009. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children's will publish her next novel, The Vespertine in Spring 2011, with its companion novel, The Springsweet, following in Spring 2012.

For almost ten years, she was the sole screenwriter for the Book of Stories, On the Road, Fresh Films and Girls in the Director's Chair short film series. In 2008, she headed and instructed the first Fresh Films Emerging Screenwriters program, and became the Head Writer and an Executive Producer for the film series.

Shadowed Summer is the 2010 winner of The Society of Midland Authors Book Award for Children's Fiction, and a 2010 Edgar® Award Nominee. It was chosen as a Junior Library Guild selection, and an ALAN Pick in 2009. Her short story "Ready to Wear" was nominated for a 2007 Pushcart Prize after appearing in Vestal Review Issue 27. In July, 2007, her essay, "Rapid Cycling," appeared in Common Ties.

Her short story, "Management" appeared in Zen Film's anthology "Love & Sacrifice" in February, 2007, and another short, "Kissing the Dog-Faced Boy" appeared in The Summerset Review's Spring Issue, 2007. She has also published in SmokeLong Quarterly, Edgar Literary Magazine, and The Parnassus.

Other screenwriting accomplishments include scripting Scholastic's "Get Active with Widget" webisode "Treasure Hunt" and the 2006 Girls in the Director's Chair image campaign (the foundation for a national PSA in association with Women in Film.) In 2005, she concept-designed and scripted the Metro Chicago United Way's Leadership Campaign. Her first feature film, Revenge Ends, will debut on the festival circuit in 2008.

Her films have been selected for competition at many national and international film festivals, including the juried Rhode Island International Film Festival and the Chicago International Children's Film Festival. In 2006, "Goodbye, Howard" and "Last Time We Met" were selected as part of the inaugural Chicago International New Filmmakers Festival. "Goodbye, Howard" was also selected as one of the Top 4 Best of Fest at the Gen Art Film Festival in 2006.

"No. 72" and "The Super Dupers" were selected to premiere at the Los Angeles International Short Film Festival. These festivals are recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as Academy AwardTM qualifying events. Also in 2006, the 10th annual Webby Awards named Fresh Films an official honoree.

In other arenas, Ms. Mitchell was interviewed by the New York Times and the BBC for her part in exposing the Kaycee Nicole hoax, and she's been tapped by morning radio shows all over the United States as a guest expert on Urban Legends & Folklore. (less)

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Quotes from The Vespertine

“The stars could have burned out around us, the moon could have fallen from the sky, and I wouldn't have known it. Not when he leaned indecently close and pressed his cheek against mine to murmur, "Tell me a secret."
I wanted him to tell me how he stopped time like that. How he read my mind. I wanted to admit I wondered if thoughts of me troubled him when he lay awake at night. But I could make none of that come to my lips....
Instead... I whispered back, "I've seen the future."
He didn't laugh. He didn't mock, not like he had done at Privalovna's performance. In the middle of our waltz, he stopped, nose to nose with me. He uncovered me with a look that somehow bared him, too.
And his question told me everything - that he stopped time because he needed me, that he read my mind because we were one. That I troubled his nights, indeed, because what he asked revealed it all.
"Am I with you there?” — 24 people liked it

“Do forgive me.... I've no reputation of my own, and I forget they matter.” — 23 people liked it

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