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The Maura DeLuca Trilogy #1
Rising Tide: Dark Innocence
Could Maura's life get any worse? ...turns out it most certainly can.
Isolated and sheltered by her lonely mother, Maura's never been able to make friends. She seems to drive her classmates away—except for the odd times they pay enough attention to torture her—but she doesn’t understand why. Maura considers herself to be a freak of nature, with her unusually pale skin and an aversion to the sun that renders her violently nauseous. Her belief is only worsened by the fact that almost everyone around her keeps their distance.
Even her own father deserted her before she was born, leaving Maura alone with her emotionally distant mother, Caelyn. Even though Maura is desperate for answers about her unknown parent, Caelyn remains heartbroken and her daughter can’t bring herself to reopen her mother’s wounds. Or is there a more sinister reason Caelyn refuses to utter a word about her long-lost love?
When a cruel prank nearly claims Maura’s life, one of her classmates, Ron, rushes to her rescue. Darkly handsome & mysteriously accepting, Ron doesn’t seem to want to stay away, but Maura is reluctant to get too close, since her mother has announced she’s moving the two of them to Vancouver…nearly 3,000 miles away from their hometown of Indiana, Pennsylvania.
If life wasn’t already challenging enough, Maura begins to experience bizarre, physical changes her mother seems hell bent on ignoring, compelling Maura to fear for her own life. Vicious nightmares, blood cravings, failing health and the heart-shattering loss of Ron—as well as the discovery of a tangled web of her own mother's lies—become obstacles in Maura's desperate quest for the unfathomable truth she was never prepared to uncover.
Isolated and sheltered by her lonely mother, Maura's never been able to make friends. She seems to drive her classmates away—except for the odd times they pay enough attention to torture her—but she doesn’t understand why. Maura considers herself to be a freak of nature, with her unusually pale skin and an aversion to the sun that renders her violently nauseous. Her belief is only worsened by the fact that almost everyone around her keeps their distance.
Even her own father deserted her before she was born, leaving Maura alone with her emotionally distant mother, Caelyn. Even though Maura is desperate for answers about her unknown parent, Caelyn remains heartbroken and her daughter can’t bring herself to reopen her mother’s wounds. Or is there a more sinister reason Caelyn refuses to utter a word about her long-lost love?
When a cruel prank nearly claims Maura’s life, one of her classmates, Ron, rushes to her rescue. Darkly handsome & mysteriously accepting, Ron doesn’t seem to want to stay away, but Maura is reluctant to get too close, since her mother has announced she’s moving the two of them to Vancouver…nearly 3,000 miles away from their hometown of Indiana, Pennsylvania.
If life wasn’t already challenging enough, Maura begins to experience bizarre, physical changes her mother seems hell bent on ignoring, compelling Maura to fear for her own life. Vicious nightmares, blood cravings, failing health and the heart-shattering loss of Ron—as well as the discovery of a tangled web of her own mother's lies—become obstacles in Maura's desperate quest for the unfathomable truth she was never prepared to uncover.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 15, 2014
344 people are currently reading
5884 people want to read
About the author
Claudette Melanson
18 books1,387 followersClaudette Melanson writes dark fantasy in Kitchener, Ontario with seven bun babies: Tegan, Pepper, Butters, Beckett, Sansa, Daenerys, & Caramel. She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a BA in English, BS in English Education and an MA in Literature. Harboring a deep admiration of vampires since the age of five left her with the desire to eventually become one, and now fuels the creation of her favorite paranormal characters. She hopes to one day work full time as an author, since there are many, many stories playing out inside her head.
In her very scant spare time, she enjoys watching Japanese Anime and reading vampire stories...along with other genres of great fiction, as well as riding every roller coaster she encounters in both her hometown and away at signings. An advocate for good health and ketogenic eating, her favorite foods are bulletproof coffee, cashew-flour crust pizza and treats made with xylitol and almond, coconut or cashew flours.
Future dreams include a cabin boasting a roaring fire, isolated inside a snow-filled wood in the Yukon—the perfect writing spot—and the completion of dozens of future novels and stories. A Rabbit Rescue fanatic and loving bunmom, she also hopes to help rescues all over the world save many innocent lives.
In her spare time--what's that???--she loves to watch anime, game the XBox 360--especially Silent Hill Games, read great works of fiction & play with the bunnies. Coffee Lover, occasional blogger, Keto eater & movie watcher. Her first novel, Rising Tide, was the winner of the Gold Medal for YA Mystery in the 2015 Readers' Favorite Competition. Her second, Undertow, took Honorable Mention, for YA Horror the same year for Readers' Favorite. Rising Tide was also the medalist winner for New Apple's Summer Ebook competition.
In her very scant spare time, she enjoys watching Japanese Anime and reading vampire stories...along with other genres of great fiction, as well as riding every roller coaster she encounters in both her hometown and away at signings. An advocate for good health and ketogenic eating, her favorite foods are bulletproof coffee, cashew-flour crust pizza and treats made with xylitol and almond, coconut or cashew flours.
Future dreams include a cabin boasting a roaring fire, isolated inside a snow-filled wood in the Yukon—the perfect writing spot—and the completion of dozens of future novels and stories. A Rabbit Rescue fanatic and loving bunmom, she also hopes to help rescues all over the world save many innocent lives.
In her spare time--what's that???--she loves to watch anime, game the XBox 360--especially Silent Hill Games, read great works of fiction & play with the bunnies. Coffee Lover, occasional blogger, Keto eater & movie watcher. Her first novel, Rising Tide, was the winner of the Gold Medal for YA Mystery in the 2015 Readers' Favorite Competition. Her second, Undertow, took Honorable Mention, for YA Horror the same year for Readers' Favorite. Rising Tide was also the medalist winner for New Apple's Summer Ebook competition.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
May 21, 2016
Can there EVER be too many great YA fantasy novels? Claudette Melanson, author Rising Tide has definitely made a place among them! With a fresh approach to the paranormal world, she teases us with clues, leaves fluorescent bread crumbs and we follow, even though we think we have everything figured out, we can’t help but read on. The journey to that final page was one heck of ride, filled with life’s little bumps, a few major hurdles and one teenaged girl who is likable, yet a little over-sheltered and innocent!
Maura and her mom have been a solid team all of her life, but as team captain, her mother can be a little overbearing, a little too restrictive and a little too over-protective, while keeping her own secrets buried deep. Always having been a little different than the “rest” of the kids, Maura has been an outcast, bullied and alone. Her skin is pale, she reacts to the sun by becoming ill, hmmm, could she have a vitamin deficiency? As if that isn’t enough for this teen to get angsty over, she meets the kindest boy ever, who seems to like her no matter what. What makes her so special to Ron? Why is her mother accepting Ron into their closed off world? When distance separates these two, Maura is certain he has his reasons for a lack of communication, is it another girl? Maura’s tears fall, but even they seem strange and unusual, and her appetite? Whoa, can you say, it just isn’t fair to be able to eat the way that girl does! Something huge is going on and someone new is hiding in the shadows, and he said WHAT?????
Okay, worst and best ending ever! Ms. Melanson knows how to captivate her audience, place them under a gentle spell and, POOF like a magician she drops the curtain, saving her encore for the next installment of this trilogy!
Trilogy: The Maura DeLuca Trilogy - Book 1
Publication Date: February 15, 2014
Publisher: Claudette Melanson
ISBN-13: 9781495373305
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 369 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Maura and her mom have been a solid team all of her life, but as team captain, her mother can be a little overbearing, a little too restrictive and a little too over-protective, while keeping her own secrets buried deep. Always having been a little different than the “rest” of the kids, Maura has been an outcast, bullied and alone. Her skin is pale, she reacts to the sun by becoming ill, hmmm, could she have a vitamin deficiency? As if that isn’t enough for this teen to get angsty over, she meets the kindest boy ever, who seems to like her no matter what. What makes her so special to Ron? Why is her mother accepting Ron into their closed off world? When distance separates these two, Maura is certain he has his reasons for a lack of communication, is it another girl? Maura’s tears fall, but even they seem strange and unusual, and her appetite? Whoa, can you say, it just isn’t fair to be able to eat the way that girl does! Something huge is going on and someone new is hiding in the shadows, and he said WHAT?????
Okay, worst and best ending ever! Ms. Melanson knows how to captivate her audience, place them under a gentle spell and, POOF like a magician she drops the curtain, saving her encore for the next installment of this trilogy!
Trilogy: The Maura DeLuca Trilogy - Book 1
Publication Date: February 15, 2014
Publisher: Claudette Melanson
ISBN-13: 9781495373305
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 369 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 28, 2015
I'm... I'm too old for this book.
This is a very light vampire book. Actually I'm pretty sure there are no actual vampires?
Anyways, there's Maura, a different lonely young girl with no friends who suddenly experiences physical changes: she was always pale and averse to the sun, but now her teeth change, she craves blood...
You literally know from page one that she is becoming a vampire. But Maura is completely oblivous! I mean I'm becoming a vampire wouldn't be my first thought if I was experiencing those changes but she doesn't think that nothing paranormal is happening to her even when though it's clear she's different.
The entire book is about Maura falling in love and slowly changing. Literally. In fact, they don't even say the word vampire until the last page. It's frustrating.
If I was twelve I would have enjoyed it a lot more, but right now for me this is a very simple and light story.
March 8, 2022
When you finish a book in one day, you know it has left you breathless. I won this book on booklikes, and I wanted to give it a try, since it's here, and I wasn't disappointed at all.
January 18, 2022
The vampire diary
There is something about this book even though I know where things were going I kept reading. I kept thinking that revelations would come a earlier but I was given just enough to hook me along to read the next chapter.
This not an action or adventure book, but a good quickish read. I would say the book is slow for the way information is given but the fact that I wanted just keep reading.
A good introduction to the series, now that the big secret is out I am hoping for coming in the next books. It might be slow paced and a bit of misdirection using the other characters (or was it) but the book I'd definitely a page turner. I think it will be interesting how Maura's friends and relationships next.
There is something about this book even though I know where things were going I kept reading. I kept thinking that revelations would come a earlier but I was given just enough to hook me along to read the next chapter.
This not an action or adventure book, but a good quickish read. I would say the book is slow for the way information is given but the fact that I wanted just keep reading.
A good introduction to the series, now that the big secret is out I am hoping for coming in the next books. It might be slow paced and a bit of misdirection using the other characters (or was it) but the book I'd definitely a page turner. I think it will be interesting how Maura's friends and relationships next.
July 29, 2017
I really did enjoy the book, the characters, the writing style, the story.
Basically it was a page turner and I just had to keep on turning the pages to see what is going to happen next and how things will unfold. It felt like this book covered pretty much a part of my life, as I grew up with my mom as well and we had to move (to different countries and not for the same reason as in the book but oh well close enough ^.^) too, also the bullying part. The way that scene was described and how Maura’s mom reacted felt real and I really did appreciate the realism? if I may say in this book I mean it was #relatable.
The only thing that I found a bit too how can I say it happen too fast was the ”relationship” between Maura and Ron it was just a bit too fast for me and this is the only reason why I gave this book 4 stars out of 5. But it is oook you guyss no worries I still liked it, I still enjoyed it and I will definitely be looking forward to the next books in this trilogy!!
Overall I very much enjoyed it. Claudette’s writing style is enchanting and trust me there were just a few authors that could enchant me by their writing until now so this is a greatt thing!
Totally recommend it, I do not want to spoil too much away so you could enjoy and see how the story goes by reading it yourself.
Basically it was a page turner and I just had to keep on turning the pages to see what is going to happen next and how things will unfold. It felt like this book covered pretty much a part of my life, as I grew up with my mom as well and we had to move (to different countries and not for the same reason as in the book but oh well close enough ^.^) too, also the bullying part. The way that scene was described and how Maura’s mom reacted felt real and I really did appreciate the realism? if I may say in this book I mean it was #relatable.
The only thing that I found a bit too how can I say it happen too fast was the ”relationship” between Maura and Ron it was just a bit too fast for me and this is the only reason why I gave this book 4 stars out of 5. But it is oook you guyss no worries I still liked it, I still enjoyed it and I will definitely be looking forward to the next books in this trilogy!!
Overall I very much enjoyed it. Claudette’s writing style is enchanting and trust me there were just a few authors that could enchant me by their writing until now so this is a greatt thing!
Totally recommend it, I do not want to spoil too much away so you could enjoy and see how the story goes by reading it yourself.
February 13, 2015
I just absolutely loved this book! I'm especially happy I found it after the 2nd book, Undertow came out. That way I don't have to wait to see what happens after the cliffhanger Ms. Melanson left us with. I've already 1-clicked the sequel, and I cannot wait to start it:)
I won't give away the secrets of this book for potential new readers. Discovery of a really amazing book is the fun of reading in the first place. There is one thing I do want to address, though. Several reviews have mentioned how odd it seems for Maura to refer to her mother as Caelyn instead of Mom for much of the book. I found this to be a brilliant touch of 'showing' instead of 'telling'. I got it, I really did. Caelyn had her daughter at a very young age, and in some ways, the two of them have grown up together. Caelyn is fiercely protective of her daughter, but she is emotionally dependent on her too, and in several ways, she's allowed Maura to take over the role of parent. They have an extremely complicated relationship, and all of the secrets between them don't help them to understand each other.
I'm extremely impressed by the excellent way this book was written. Good writing is a combination of learned skill and innate talent, and Ms. Melanson has both. I love discovering new writers, and I look forward to watching her career blossom. If you're wondering whether to give this book a shot, just download the free sample, and see how fast it gets you hooked!
I won't give away the secrets of this book for potential new readers. Discovery of a really amazing book is the fun of reading in the first place. There is one thing I do want to address, though. Several reviews have mentioned how odd it seems for Maura to refer to her mother as Caelyn instead of Mom for much of the book. I found this to be a brilliant touch of 'showing' instead of 'telling'. I got it, I really did. Caelyn had her daughter at a very young age, and in some ways, the two of them have grown up together. Caelyn is fiercely protective of her daughter, but she is emotionally dependent on her too, and in several ways, she's allowed Maura to take over the role of parent. They have an extremely complicated relationship, and all of the secrets between them don't help them to understand each other.
I'm extremely impressed by the excellent way this book was written. Good writing is a combination of learned skill and innate talent, and Ms. Melanson has both. I love discovering new writers, and I look forward to watching her career blossom. If you're wondering whether to give this book a shot, just download the free sample, and see how fast it gets you hooked!
July 11, 2014
Rising Tide is the story of a teenage girl going through trials and tribulations of young adulthood. Lose of a father, medical concerns, failing to fit in with socially bullying friends - some of the usual. Plus there’s the odd shape of canines growing in her mouth, and this insatiable urge to drink the blood from raw steak packages.
I enjoyed reading this. This book made it on to the latter rounds of the Amazon Break Thru Novel contest and I can see why. I looked forward to what happened next and grabbed the kindle with enthusiasm. It is a ‘light’ read, well, at least for me. It is true YA. Not some fake YA stuff called YA. I'd let my YA daughter read this for sure, and it traces the thoughts of a fairly neurotic, often terrified, always romanticizing things teenage girl. There is some great YA relationship dynamics inside. It is the stuff to rollerskate too while holding hands and listening to Stevie Nicks.
I don’t think anyone will be surprised to know it is about a young woman emerging into adulthood as a vampire, but even though you know what's happening, you are still thrilled to see ‘how’ it will happen. There were parts that I didn’t like both ‘waiting and wading’ through. I wanted to skim paragraphs to see what would happen next, which is a testimony to the way it made you interested in what happened next, but also that the page didn’t have enough glue to make my eyes stick but I longed for the next one instead.
I think a sharp knife to kill somebody early on, or a sharp knife to cut out some words along the way, might have helped me. Then again, my natural inclination is perhaps more grim than others. The prose seemed more explanatory rather than sensory. Moments where the visceral sensations and nature of the vampire urges took over were my favorite, and like Maura craving for blood, I craved for these passages.
It was a nice, romantic read compared to the dark dirty shit (oh, damn it, this is true YA, can I say "shit"?) stuff I've been writing and reading.
When I got to the end, the last pages certainly made me want to read the second book of the trilogy. This is its gift and curse. I wonder if the idea of a trilogy in the back of the authors mind didn't make her hold back on things instead waiting for the second book. (full disclosure: I have trilogy bias, since I think it causes stories that are not as full as they could be if the author hadn’t preconceived of a trilogy rather than wrote a full story and decided later to continue it)(am I making sense here? of course not... got to edit this 'shit' to make sense later. Dammnit, I said 'shit' again.)
In the end, I certainly want to know more, and that’s a testimony to the very cool, refreshing YA story that is Rising Tide. The author has done a wonderful job presenting some interesting dynamics, and I'd love to see where it goes next.
(note: I received this book via my role as a bookie-monster.com reviewer)
I enjoyed reading this. This book made it on to the latter rounds of the Amazon Break Thru Novel contest and I can see why. I looked forward to what happened next and grabbed the kindle with enthusiasm. It is a ‘light’ read, well, at least for me. It is true YA. Not some fake YA stuff called YA. I'd let my YA daughter read this for sure, and it traces the thoughts of a fairly neurotic, often terrified, always romanticizing things teenage girl. There is some great YA relationship dynamics inside. It is the stuff to rollerskate too while holding hands and listening to Stevie Nicks.
I don’t think anyone will be surprised to know it is about a young woman emerging into adulthood as a vampire, but even though you know what's happening, you are still thrilled to see ‘how’ it will happen. There were parts that I didn’t like both ‘waiting and wading’ through. I wanted to skim paragraphs to see what would happen next, which is a testimony to the way it made you interested in what happened next, but also that the page didn’t have enough glue to make my eyes stick but I longed for the next one instead.
I think a sharp knife to kill somebody early on, or a sharp knife to cut out some words along the way, might have helped me. Then again, my natural inclination is perhaps more grim than others. The prose seemed more explanatory rather than sensory. Moments where the visceral sensations and nature of the vampire urges took over were my favorite, and like Maura craving for blood, I craved for these passages.
It was a nice, romantic read compared to the dark dirty shit (oh, damn it, this is true YA, can I say "shit"?) stuff I've been writing and reading.
When I got to the end, the last pages certainly made me want to read the second book of the trilogy. This is its gift and curse. I wonder if the idea of a trilogy in the back of the authors mind didn't make her hold back on things instead waiting for the second book. (full disclosure: I have trilogy bias, since I think it causes stories that are not as full as they could be if the author hadn’t preconceived of a trilogy rather than wrote a full story and decided later to continue it)(am I making sense here? of course not... got to edit this 'shit' to make sense later. Dammnit, I said 'shit' again.)
In the end, I certainly want to know more, and that’s a testimony to the very cool, refreshing YA story that is Rising Tide. The author has done a wonderful job presenting some interesting dynamics, and I'd love to see where it goes next.
(note: I received this book via my role as a bookie-monster.com reviewer)
September 16, 2016
Rising Tide: Dark Innocence (The Maura DeLuca Trilogy, #1) Claudette Melanson
Maura has always been a bit of a loner. She doesn't make friends easy, and when she does they tend to just make fun of her, or are out right cruel. Her Mother Caelyn takes a new job in Canada, Maura feels this could be a fresh start and a better life for both of them. She has never know about her father, her Mother never wants to talk about him. This bothers her, and she wants to know more.
The school season is ending and Maura starts to feel different. She does not do well in the sun, she has some sort of allergy, that is what she has been told. She meets a boy named Ron and a few of his friends. Ron accepts her for who she is, his friends as well. Are things finally looking up for Maura? Will she ever find the truth about her father? Will she finally find happiness.
An original story, with a very likable female lead. Maura is different, she is shy, kind, and just wants to fit in. It is hard not to like her. She faces many challenges being a teen and not popular. Having an over protective Mother doesn't help. But I also found Caelyn likable, she has her secrets, but she loves her daughter and will do anything to protect her.
Overall I found Rising Tide: Dark Innocence very enjoyable. The story is well written, with secrets, a bit of young love, and teen problems. I feel those who like a great y/a paranormal/vampire story will enjoy this as well.
Maura has always been a bit of a loner. She doesn't make friends easy, and when she does they tend to just make fun of her, or are out right cruel. Her Mother Caelyn takes a new job in Canada, Maura feels this could be a fresh start and a better life for both of them. She has never know about her father, her Mother never wants to talk about him. This bothers her, and she wants to know more.
The school season is ending and Maura starts to feel different. She does not do well in the sun, she has some sort of allergy, that is what she has been told. She meets a boy named Ron and a few of his friends. Ron accepts her for who she is, his friends as well. Are things finally looking up for Maura? Will she ever find the truth about her father? Will she finally find happiness.
An original story, with a very likable female lead. Maura is different, she is shy, kind, and just wants to fit in. It is hard not to like her. She faces many challenges being a teen and not popular. Having an over protective Mother doesn't help. But I also found Caelyn likable, she has her secrets, but she loves her daughter and will do anything to protect her.
Overall I found Rising Tide: Dark Innocence very enjoyable. The story is well written, with secrets, a bit of young love, and teen problems. I feel those who like a great y/a paranormal/vampire story will enjoy this as well.
November 5, 2014
***I received the paperback free as a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review***
I’ve always been fascinated with vampires and it’s a rare occasion that needs to be celebrated when I find a great vampire novel in the YA genre. Rising Tide fits this perfectly and I’m so glad I got the chance to read it.
What I also loved about this was that it wasn’t simply the story of a girl falling into a group of vampires, and being turned blah blah blah because Maura has no idea. And I mean no fricking idea. She spends the majority of her time simply thinking she is “ill” which suits her well enough, all the while you know the truth (which from the synopsis is no secret). What surprised me about this is that I didn’t feel like screaming at her because of it. Granted it was stretched out to the complete max, and if her ignorance had lasted until the next book that would be a whole new story.
I’m pretty sure Claudette Melanson wrote this with the idea already in her head that it would be the start of a trilogy, and this comes through in her writing. Like I already said, everything was stretched out but it did mean we can see more of Ron… He was so perfect, and while I usually find myself leaning towards the flawed bad boys with a hidden soft side; Ron was a genuinely nice guy plain and simple (but I hated the hair; I always pictured him with short hair because no one can pull of long hair unless your name is Chris Hemsworth aka Thor but even then it wasn’t that long).
The chemistry between Ron and Maura was undeniable, so while it had a very quick time span to develop (I’m trying to avoid the taboo word “insta-love” here) it was believable and I think any writer who wants a romance between characters who don’t know each other much hopes to stride for.
It does end on what some people might consider a cliff-hanger but I saw everything coming after approximately the first 10 pages so I’m not shocked, however that doesn’t mean I’m not eagerly awaiting the sequel.
Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/
I’ve always been fascinated with vampires and it’s a rare occasion that needs to be celebrated when I find a great vampire novel in the YA genre. Rising Tide fits this perfectly and I’m so glad I got the chance to read it.
What I also loved about this was that it wasn’t simply the story of a girl falling into a group of vampires, and being turned blah blah blah because Maura has no idea. And I mean no fricking idea. She spends the majority of her time simply thinking she is “ill” which suits her well enough, all the while you know the truth (which from the synopsis is no secret). What surprised me about this is that I didn’t feel like screaming at her because of it. Granted it was stretched out to the complete max, and if her ignorance had lasted until the next book that would be a whole new story.
I’m pretty sure Claudette Melanson wrote this with the idea already in her head that it would be the start of a trilogy, and this comes through in her writing. Like I already said, everything was stretched out but it did mean we can see more of Ron… He was so perfect, and while I usually find myself leaning towards the flawed bad boys with a hidden soft side; Ron was a genuinely nice guy plain and simple (but I hated the hair; I always pictured him with short hair because no one can pull of long hair unless your name is Chris Hemsworth aka Thor but even then it wasn’t that long).
The chemistry between Ron and Maura was undeniable, so while it had a very quick time span to develop (I’m trying to avoid the taboo word “insta-love” here) it was believable and I think any writer who wants a romance between characters who don’t know each other much hopes to stride for.
It does end on what some people might consider a cliff-hanger but I saw everything coming after approximately the first 10 pages so I’m not shocked, however that doesn’t mean I’m not eagerly awaiting the sequel.
Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/
October 12, 2014
Claudette Melanson‘s YA vampire novel, Rising Tide: Dark Innocence is full of teenage angst and passion coupled with the full range of the ebb and flow of the high school experience. This author has captured that time period aptly! While I am not a fan of YA fiction because of the overly dramatic teen emotional arc, Ms. Melanson does a very good job of making her main character’s drama very real and engaging.
This is book 1 of a trilogy that follows Maura “Mink” through her transformation into a vampire. At the end of book one is when the true story begins. So, it is abundantly clear early on in book 1 what is transpiring in Mink’s body but everyone around her is avoiding the issue and allaying her concerns about ‘her health’. An absentee father also is something that is used by Mink’s mother as a major diversion/avoidance topic throughout Mink’s childhood.
The emotions expressed are believable. The characters are well thought out and the reader comes to care about them and there’s a profound mystery that needs to be solved (even though,we, the reader know the answer!). The reader feels for Mink and hopes beyond hope that it’s something other than what we know it to be. Therein lies the lovely suspense, is it really the expected ending?
Good job to Ms. Melanson on creating a vampire story that is substantially different from what is already out in play in the world.
This is book 1 of a trilogy that follows Maura “Mink” through her transformation into a vampire. At the end of book one is when the true story begins. So, it is abundantly clear early on in book 1 what is transpiring in Mink’s body but everyone around her is avoiding the issue and allaying her concerns about ‘her health’. An absentee father also is something that is used by Mink’s mother as a major diversion/avoidance topic throughout Mink’s childhood.
The emotions expressed are believable. The characters are well thought out and the reader comes to care about them and there’s a profound mystery that needs to be solved (even though,we, the reader know the answer!). The reader feels for Mink and hopes beyond hope that it’s something other than what we know it to be. Therein lies the lovely suspense, is it really the expected ending?
Good job to Ms. Melanson on creating a vampire story that is substantially different from what is already out in play in the world.
September 30, 2014
This is the first book in a new series.
I saw the book prompted on Twitter and jumped over to the Amazon page, liked what I saw so I bought it.
I am a fan of good vampire book and series as you can tell by other books on my review site and this one does not disappoint.
The story line follows a teen girl that suddenly seems to become one of the cool kids, finds out she's moving to another country, gets attention from some boys, and seems to be suffering from a sickness that nobody knows what it is, except her mother and she strangely, is being very tight lipped.
This is a book in the new vampire genre of what I call born this way. This book is cleverly written to keep you drawn in and waiting for the next book. I generally do not like series that are a chain, where each book depends on the one before it. I prefer that each book stand on its own. Since this is the first book it is yet to be determined if you had to read this book to understand the next but either way I think if you like the vampire genre then this will be a good book for you to enjoy and has potential to be a great series.
It will be interesting to see how the story line goes with respect to her growth into her destiny and also the budding love interest that seems to be a pivotal part of the series.
I saw the book prompted on Twitter and jumped over to the Amazon page, liked what I saw so I bought it.
I am a fan of good vampire book and series as you can tell by other books on my review site and this one does not disappoint.
The story line follows a teen girl that suddenly seems to become one of the cool kids, finds out she's moving to another country, gets attention from some boys, and seems to be suffering from a sickness that nobody knows what it is, except her mother and she strangely, is being very tight lipped.
This is a book in the new vampire genre of what I call born this way. This book is cleverly written to keep you drawn in and waiting for the next book. I generally do not like series that are a chain, where each book depends on the one before it. I prefer that each book stand on its own. Since this is the first book it is yet to be determined if you had to read this book to understand the next but either way I think if you like the vampire genre then this will be a good book for you to enjoy and has potential to be a great series.
It will be interesting to see how the story line goes with respect to her growth into her destiny and also the budding love interest that seems to be a pivotal part of the series.
October 22, 2014
Strange things are happening to Maura “Mink” DeLuca.
The high school bullies are befriending her, raw meat makes her mouth water, her teeth are painfully sharp, and her mom has gone and decided the best thing for them to do is move to Vancouver.
As in Canada.
As in a whole other country.
And then she meets Ron. He’s gorgeous and sweet, funny and kind, and he’s just what Maura needs. All the strange and funky stuff happening to her just doesn’t seem to faze the guy. Couple that with his kissing skills and Maura’s got herself a keeper.
Me, personally, I would make Ron cut his hair and Maura more inquisitive and demanding, but that’s just my thing. I tend to favor short-hair boys and bitchy girls.
That said, I still enjoyed this first stage in Maura’s journey and am curious as to what’s in store for her next.
A well-written coming of age story, Ms. Melanson lays the intriguing groundwork for a unique vampire tale, concluding Rising Tide with quite the cliffhanger. Fans of YA hits Twilight and Vampire Academy will enjoy sinking their teeth into Maura’s journey of self-discovery, finding themselves closing the cover on book I, eagerly awaiting the arrival of book II in this captivating, young adult trilogy.
Nice job, Claudette!
The high school bullies are befriending her, raw meat makes her mouth water, her teeth are painfully sharp, and her mom has gone and decided the best thing for them to do is move to Vancouver.
As in Canada.
As in a whole other country.
And then she meets Ron. He’s gorgeous and sweet, funny and kind, and he’s just what Maura needs. All the strange and funky stuff happening to her just doesn’t seem to faze the guy. Couple that with his kissing skills and Maura’s got herself a keeper.
Me, personally, I would make Ron cut his hair and Maura more inquisitive and demanding, but that’s just my thing. I tend to favor short-hair boys and bitchy girls.
That said, I still enjoyed this first stage in Maura’s journey and am curious as to what’s in store for her next.
A well-written coming of age story, Ms. Melanson lays the intriguing groundwork for a unique vampire tale, concluding Rising Tide with quite the cliffhanger. Fans of YA hits Twilight and Vampire Academy will enjoy sinking their teeth into Maura’s journey of self-discovery, finding themselves closing the cover on book I, eagerly awaiting the arrival of book II in this captivating, young adult trilogy.
Nice job, Claudette!
September 3, 2015
The first book I've started this summer by the beautiful sea
I really enjoyed reading it, though at some parts it felt very long without any clear purpose!
I liked that it was a vampire story but it didn't felt like it in a traditional way at all, and that makes me very excited for the sequel!
And I must thank the author Claudette Melanson for sending me the book which I definitely enjoyed!
I really enjoyed reading it, though at some parts it felt very long without any clear purpose!
I liked that it was a vampire story but it didn't felt like it in a traditional way at all, and that makes me very excited for the sequel!
And I must thank the author Claudette Melanson for sending me the book which I definitely enjoyed!
June 28, 2015
This is book 1 in the Maura DeLuca trilogy.
This book surprised me; I didn't expect it to be as good as it turned out as I have ready many vampire romance novels. I liked Ron from the moment the athor mentioned him. I found Ron and Maura's romance to be sweet although I did find it weird that they only started talking in a small amount of time and became so close. But still, I really did enjoy reading it.
This book surprised me; I didn't expect it to be as good as it turned out as I have ready many vampire romance novels. I liked Ron from the moment the athor mentioned him. I found Ron and Maura's romance to be sweet although I did find it weird that they only started talking in a small amount of time and became so close. But still, I really did enjoy reading it.
February 15, 2015
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
I couldn't put this book down!! I had to keep reading it to find out what happens. I knew that Maura was born as a vampire but trying to figure out what her mother is. Does she happen to have some kind of connection to Maura and her Father and how is Ron so calm? I loved this book and I need to read the other books in series, I have to find out what happens!!!!!!
Thank you for letting me read your book:)
I couldn't put this book down!! I had to keep reading it to find out what happens. I knew that Maura was born as a vampire but trying to figure out what her mother is. Does she happen to have some kind of connection to Maura and her Father and how is Ron so calm? I loved this book and I need to read the other books in series, I have to find out what happens!!!!!!
Thank you for letting me read your book:)
March 24, 2020
Rising Tide: Dark Innocence (The Maura DeLuca Trilogy Book 1) (2014) By Claudette Melanson is a really compelling character-driven book.
The story follows young vampire Maura as she goes on her journey to discovering this facet of herself. Along the way, the teenager has the usual teenage experiences such as bullying, trying to belong and finding love while trying to find herself. Maura is an incredibly likeable character who is easy to relate to from times gone by. She is very much not one-dimensional and we really get to know about her character and her life throughout the story including her highs and her lows. She is definitely not the ‘typical’ teenager and that has nothing to do with her being a vampire. She is very much a more nerdy, geeky and introspective teenager who loves books, learning and music and yet she has her more wilder, adventurous side too. Yeah, I could remember that I was a bit like that too, still am actually only older. She is very believable and easy to root for. She just seems like a real person, not a stereotype.
She finds herself worrying for her mother in the book. Her mother is struggling since her father left in very mysterious circumstances which adds a glorious mystery element to the story alongside the romance, drama, sci-fi, fantasy and the occasional bit of comedy thrown in for good measure. There is a kind of vibe where both Maura and her mother take on the ‘parent’ role at different moments in the book and it’s truly lovely because you know they will always be there for each other and are super close.
The book deals with many important issues such as bullying and finding yourself. Maura faces some struggles in terms of bullying from some nasty teenagers who get a kick out of being cruel. Add into all this she is finding out who she is, is worried about her health and is like most teenagers mostly making a mountain out of a molehill. Although to be fair, a lot of her issues are anything but typical so she’s entitled to worry a bit. Among all of this, she meets Ron and falls head over heels in love with him and vice versa. Their romance has a very insta-love feel which I didn’t mind at all but might not be for everyone. But they are very sweet together and the author conveys very well how much they care about each other. I also really like the friendships they share with their friends and it’s nice to see those relationships grow as well.
This is an amazing book, so well-written, really enthralling. My only flaw with it and it’s a small thing but I did find it strange when Ron ran back to the computer when his Mum, who has cancer, was after collapsing to inform Maura of what had happened. Sure he left it on and went to his Mum which saved the scene a bit and I got that the writer was trying to show how much he cared for Maura in the scene but I just can’t see that happening.
That aside, I loved the book. The author is so unbelievably talented and delves into so much in this book and gets it all across very well. I also loved a lot of the references because a lot of them were from my youth and early adulthood. It doesn’t specifically say what years the book took place in but I recognized most of the music references and scenes, etc … so I found that cool and didn’t feel thick!
Fantastic cover art too by Rachel Montreuil.
It’s a fantastic read and I recommend you should give it a chance.
The story follows young vampire Maura as she goes on her journey to discovering this facet of herself. Along the way, the teenager has the usual teenage experiences such as bullying, trying to belong and finding love while trying to find herself. Maura is an incredibly likeable character who is easy to relate to from times gone by. She is very much not one-dimensional and we really get to know about her character and her life throughout the story including her highs and her lows. She is definitely not the ‘typical’ teenager and that has nothing to do with her being a vampire. She is very much a more nerdy, geeky and introspective teenager who loves books, learning and music and yet she has her more wilder, adventurous side too. Yeah, I could remember that I was a bit like that too, still am actually only older. She is very believable and easy to root for. She just seems like a real person, not a stereotype.
She finds herself worrying for her mother in the book. Her mother is struggling since her father left in very mysterious circumstances which adds a glorious mystery element to the story alongside the romance, drama, sci-fi, fantasy and the occasional bit of comedy thrown in for good measure. There is a kind of vibe where both Maura and her mother take on the ‘parent’ role at different moments in the book and it’s truly lovely because you know they will always be there for each other and are super close.
The book deals with many important issues such as bullying and finding yourself. Maura faces some struggles in terms of bullying from some nasty teenagers who get a kick out of being cruel. Add into all this she is finding out who she is, is worried about her health and is like most teenagers mostly making a mountain out of a molehill. Although to be fair, a lot of her issues are anything but typical so she’s entitled to worry a bit. Among all of this, she meets Ron and falls head over heels in love with him and vice versa. Their romance has a very insta-love feel which I didn’t mind at all but might not be for everyone. But they are very sweet together and the author conveys very well how much they care about each other. I also really like the friendships they share with their friends and it’s nice to see those relationships grow as well.
This is an amazing book, so well-written, really enthralling. My only flaw with it and it’s a small thing but I did find it strange when Ron ran back to the computer when his Mum, who has cancer, was after collapsing to inform Maura of what had happened. Sure he left it on and went to his Mum which saved the scene a bit and I got that the writer was trying to show how much he cared for Maura in the scene but I just can’t see that happening.
That aside, I loved the book. The author is so unbelievably talented and delves into so much in this book and gets it all across very well. I also loved a lot of the references because a lot of them were from my youth and early adulthood. It doesn’t specifically say what years the book took place in but I recognized most of the music references and scenes, etc … so I found that cool and didn’t feel thick!
Fantastic cover art too by Rachel Montreuil.
It’s a fantastic read and I recommend you should give it a chance.
August 5, 2017
I first read this book back in March 2015. After which, I attempted (very badly!) to write my first ever review. I loved delving back into this book and becoming engrossed in Maura’s story all over again.
For me, this story evoked all the feelings of being a teenager once again. The want to fit in with your peers, where every perceived difference can single you out. The need to be independent without the ‘rents clipping your wings. The angst created in almost every situation. Then there’s the hormones – oh, the hormones! – as the body goes through more changes than can be quantified!
Well, imagine that ten-fold for Maura. Always feeling like the outsider, especially given her aversion to the sun and the mystery surrounding her errant father by her tight-lipped and over-protective mom. No friends to speak of, but the want to be accepted. Then to be the victim of a cruel prank by her classmates, which could’ve had disastrous consequences, if it wasn��t for her ‘White Knight’ Ron. Yeah, you really start to feel for her, and the want to go into battle on her behalf.
“Wasn’t that what every human wished for – unconditional acceptance?”
Le sigh… we experience the blossoming of first love, even with the challenges Maura faces. Ron embraces all of Maura’s differences. These are no mere growing pains, that’s for sure *snorts* Yet, nothing deters his feelings for her. If only she didn’t have to move *wails* Every feeling is amplified.
Can Maura and Ron’s tentative relationship survive the separation? What do Maura’s strange cravings mean? Will Maura’s mom finally reveal answers relating to her father? What does all this mean for Maura’s future?
For all this and more you’ll have to read on. Once you do, I’m sure you’ll be captivated like me. I can’t wait to continue Maura’s voyage of discovery.
Note: Copy kindly received from author in exchange for an honest review.
For me, this story evoked all the feelings of being a teenager once again. The want to fit in with your peers, where every perceived difference can single you out. The need to be independent without the ‘rents clipping your wings. The angst created in almost every situation. Then there’s the hormones – oh, the hormones! – as the body goes through more changes than can be quantified!
Well, imagine that ten-fold for Maura. Always feeling like the outsider, especially given her aversion to the sun and the mystery surrounding her errant father by her tight-lipped and over-protective mom. No friends to speak of, but the want to be accepted. Then to be the victim of a cruel prank by her classmates, which could’ve had disastrous consequences, if it wasn��t for her ‘White Knight’ Ron. Yeah, you really start to feel for her, and the want to go into battle on her behalf.
“Wasn’t that what every human wished for – unconditional acceptance?”
Le sigh… we experience the blossoming of first love, even with the challenges Maura faces. Ron embraces all of Maura’s differences. These are no mere growing pains, that’s for sure *snorts* Yet, nothing deters his feelings for her. If only she didn’t have to move *wails* Every feeling is amplified.
Can Maura and Ron’s tentative relationship survive the separation? What do Maura’s strange cravings mean? Will Maura’s mom finally reveal answers relating to her father? What does all this mean for Maura’s future?
For all this and more you’ll have to read on. Once you do, I’m sure you’ll be captivated like me. I can’t wait to continue Maura’s voyage of discovery.
Note: Copy kindly received from author in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2017
Have never read paranormal as I thought it wouldnt fit my tastes but I was wrong. This novel kept me hooked from the very beginning. Highly recommended to everyone.
August 11, 2017
Very good book
Dang it I'm still shaking no seriously I even have goosebumps ! !
I applaud this book
# I 💙 BOOKS
Dang it I'm still shaking no seriously I even have goosebumps ! !
I applaud this book
# I 💙 BOOKS
May 29, 2020
I really struggled with the writing. There were too many exclamation points and too many “oh” and the use of * to be used inside a quotation mark. It was distracting from the story.
April 25, 2015
***Free Kindle-copy provided by the author in exchange of an honest review***
Before the deed
I am always happily willing to lend a hand to a breaking-through author - or for that matter any author as generous as to provide free copies of their works.
It's like Christmas has come again, and I freaking love Christmas!
This occasion is screaming for some royal display of happiness:
After the deed
Turns out, I had very good reason to be excited about Rising Tide.
Ooooh, that ending! I want to know what comes next, like right now.
Very well done, Claudette Melanson, you got me hooked.
The writing style is fast-paced and it just all flows perfectly. Once you pick it up, it's very difficult to put it down until you reach the last page.
You will find it very easy to read.
The story
Here begins Maura's journey into... vampirehood?
Yeah, basically that's what's happening here.
Maura DeLuca has never been popular. As a matter of fact, she's considered a "freak" (personal commentary: 1) teenagers are brainless douchebags with a vicious streak for cruelty; 2) I want to slap that Katie bitch so hard around the ears!).
That's why she's not so unhappy when her mother announces their moving to Vancouver. Until she meets Ron. Everything changes. More than Maura realizes. Not only does she experience her first love threatening to become also her first heartbreak (though Ron seems bound not to let that happen), she also starts changeing physically, even getting first stirrings of bloodlust. Who'd thought protein would be so good!.
She's transitioning.
Because there's a reason why her father left. There's a reason why her mother is "psychotic overprotecting". They know what she doesn't know. What we know from the very start.
Maura was born to be a vampire.
Now, you tell me if that's not a good read!?
Before the deed
I am always happily willing to lend a hand to a breaking-through author - or for that matter any author as generous as to provide free copies of their works.
It's like Christmas has come again, and I freaking love Christmas!
This occasion is screaming for some royal display of happiness:
After the deed
Turns out, I had very good reason to be excited about Rising Tide.
Ooooh, that ending! I want to know what comes next, like right now.
Very well done, Claudette Melanson, you got me hooked.
The writing style is fast-paced and it just all flows perfectly. Once you pick it up, it's very difficult to put it down until you reach the last page.
You will find it very easy to read.
The story
Here begins Maura's journey into... vampirehood?
Yeah, basically that's what's happening here.
Maura DeLuca has never been popular. As a matter of fact, she's considered a "freak" (personal commentary: 1) teenagers are brainless douchebags with a vicious streak for cruelty; 2) I want to slap that Katie bitch so hard around the ears!).
That's why she's not so unhappy when her mother announces their moving to Vancouver. Until she meets Ron. Everything changes. More than Maura realizes. Not only does she experience her first love threatening to become also her first heartbreak (though Ron seems bound not to let that happen), she also starts changeing physically, even getting first stirrings of bloodlust. Who'd thought protein would be so good!.
She's transitioning.
Because there's a reason why her father left. There's a reason why her mother is "psychotic overprotecting". They know what she doesn't know. What we know from the very start.
Maura was born to be a vampire.
Now, you tell me if that's not a good read!?
December 8, 2015
Rising Tide by Claudette Melanson
You want a good read? Do you love vampires? Well then, Look no further this one will knock you off your feet. Claudette has created amazing character that you will fall in love with. This young Adult adventure with its main character Maura will sweep you away on a relatable plot twist and envelops you with its fights, and romance. If you’re a fan of vampires, romance, and humor, than this is the book for you and I would recommend Rising Tide: Dark Innocence.
You want a good read? Do you love vampires? Well then, Look no further this one will knock you off your feet. Claudette has created amazing character that you will fall in love with. This young Adult adventure with its main character Maura will sweep you away on a relatable plot twist and envelops you with its fights, and romance. If you’re a fan of vampires, romance, and humor, than this is the book for you and I would recommend Rising Tide: Dark Innocence.
July 9, 2015
I loved this book. I devoured it in one day. Maura has got to be one of my favorite characters of all time. The author developed such a deep connection between the reader and her characters. It is rather intense. The writing was flawless. The story line stayed consistent and didn't get distracted. This is the first book I have read from this author but it definitely won't be the last. I am already deep in to the next book of the series
October 11, 2016
I loved this book. Adored these characters. The relationship between Maura and Ron was just awww. I listened to the audio version (a couple of technical glitches by the narrator, but it did not detract from the story).
I will definitely listen to the rest of the series!
I will definitely listen to the rest of the series!
May 13, 2015
This is very much a cute YA read. If you like high-school, teenage hell, and cute vampires, then you'll love this one. So, I'm morphing staight on to the next novel.
November 25, 2017
I had to stop.
This book is clearly for younger YA readers, I just couldn't continue with it. Made it to chapter 7.
Saying that, I've read children's book that are better written than this.
This book is clearly for younger YA readers, I just couldn't continue with it. Made it to chapter 7.
Saying that, I've read children's book that are better written than this.
August 8, 2017
Maura (Maura) is a girl made to grow up faster than she should. Her fairly strict mother keeps a close eye on her, especially after the “loss” of her father. Maura never quite fits in, so she is excited when the popular kids begin to pay attention to her. As it turns out, their attention was part of a cruel joke that leads to a head injury and a broken spirit. Which lasts a short while, as she soon meets Ron: he is older, attractive, sweet, plays in a band, and instantly dotes on her. Their romance is hard and fast, almost like an addiction. The only regret Maura has is that she is moving at the end of the school year, relocating to Canada. That is going to hamper the romance she has with Ron. Yet that is the least of Maura’s worries. She is going through changes that leave her scared and lost. Always sensitive to the sun, she starts to crave meat and experiences a few physical changes that leave her an emerging beauty. And to her alarm, she developed a set of canines that can do some serious damage. Her mom tries everything to protect her from what is happening, hoping to convince Maura that she should stop worrying so much about what is happening. But how can she not?
Maura was an instantly likable character—she was no victim, but still betrayed a vulnerability. A high school outcast, but with spirit about her. The development of Maura’s change is evenly paced, even though as a reader it is obvious what is happening to her. I don’t understand how Maura, familiar with horror movies, didn’t at least think or consider, no matter how silly she thought it was, that she might be turning into a preternatural creature. But who would? I don’t think I would have thought I was changing into a monster if it were happening to me. The whirlwind romance she was a part of was so cute, and I wanted so much for them to work out. I was scared something would happen to take away the only thing that made her happy. Since this book is part of a series, there is something to look forward to. Maura’s story is, by no means, finished. There was some resolution, enough to satisfy the reader at the end of the novel, but there are unanswered questions to compel a reader to further delve into the books.
Rising Tide was a good and excelling read. It was dark, but not so much to be too much for a young adult reader. Even an adult myself enjoyed the dark quality. I would recommend it to people who like supernatural themed novels, definitely.
Maura was an instantly likable character—she was no victim, but still betrayed a vulnerability. A high school outcast, but with spirit about her. The development of Maura’s change is evenly paced, even though as a reader it is obvious what is happening to her. I don’t understand how Maura, familiar with horror movies, didn’t at least think or consider, no matter how silly she thought it was, that she might be turning into a preternatural creature. But who would? I don’t think I would have thought I was changing into a monster if it were happening to me. The whirlwind romance she was a part of was so cute, and I wanted so much for them to work out. I was scared something would happen to take away the only thing that made her happy. Since this book is part of a series, there is something to look forward to. Maura’s story is, by no means, finished. There was some resolution, enough to satisfy the reader at the end of the novel, but there are unanswered questions to compel a reader to further delve into the books.
Rising Tide was a good and excelling read. It was dark, but not so much to be too much for a young adult reader. Even an adult myself enjoyed the dark quality. I would recommend it to people who like supernatural themed novels, definitely.
August 26, 2017
Maura DeLuca has never been a normal teenager. A mysterious illness that causes intense nausea when she spends too long in the sun and sickly pale skin have ensured that her school mates consider her a freak. She didn’t think she’d be leaving anything behind when her overprotective mother first announced that they’d be moving from Maura’s childhood home in Pennsylvania to Vancouver, Canada. All of that changes in the last weeks before the move. Unfortunate incidents lead Maura to meet and become involved with Ron and befriend his best friend’s girlfriend. Suddenly moving to Canada seems like the end of the world. But it isn’t just her social life that changes: Maura’s hair is growing at an abnormal rate, her dentist believes her canine teeth are rotting from the inside out, and she’s developed a craving for blood.
I generally abhor Vampire fiction but Rising Tide tempted me with what sounded like a distinctly different approach on the genre. I wasn’t disappointed. Claudette Melanson’s portrayal of Maura’s changes is refreshing and well written. While the reader can easily interpret what Maura’s physical changes imply, I thought the character’s reaction was accurate. There are several deviations from the canon regarding vampires but I believe they’ll be acceptable to fans of the genre when one keeps in mind that Maura is in a state of transition. The romance between Maura and Ron is the perfect balance between sweet and realistic. This book does end on a cliff-hanger, but its mitigated by a sneak peek at the first chapter of the second book in this series. Rising Tide is a must read for Vampire fans.
(Reviewed for Reader's Favorite)
I generally abhor Vampire fiction but Rising Tide tempted me with what sounded like a distinctly different approach on the genre. I wasn’t disappointed. Claudette Melanson’s portrayal of Maura’s changes is refreshing and well written. While the reader can easily interpret what Maura’s physical changes imply, I thought the character’s reaction was accurate. There are several deviations from the canon regarding vampires but I believe they’ll be acceptable to fans of the genre when one keeps in mind that Maura is in a state of transition. The romance between Maura and Ron is the perfect balance between sweet and realistic. This book does end on a cliff-hanger, but its mitigated by a sneak peek at the first chapter of the second book in this series. Rising Tide is a must read for Vampire fans.
(Reviewed for Reader's Favorite)
August 2, 2017
Enjoyable story, but it's a cliffhanger.
I liked the book right up until the end which wasn't an ending. I don't mind sequels where the same characters and places are used each time, as long as there's a proper ending for each book. There wasn't a proper ending for Maura's story, and it introduced a new, "old" character at the last minute, like he'd been a part of the story plot all along. And Maura's love interest was left in limbo. Uh uh, no way, so not okay! I don't like cliffhangers. The only reason that I gave this a four star was because I was really enjoying reading it until that point. The writing, character development, and world development was very good. And that's all that I have to say about it.
I liked the book right up until the end which wasn't an ending. I don't mind sequels where the same characters and places are used each time, as long as there's a proper ending for each book. There wasn't a proper ending for Maura's story, and it introduced a new, "old" character at the last minute, like he'd been a part of the story plot all along. And Maura's love interest was left in limbo. Uh uh, no way, so not okay! I don't like cliffhangers. The only reason that I gave this a four star was because I was really enjoying reading it until that point. The writing, character development, and world development was very good. And that's all that I have to say about it.
May 5, 2017
Rising Tide: Dark Innocence was a gripping tale of a teenager undergoing strange changes in her life.
Her mother seemed distant, refused to talk about Maura's father, and insisted on a move to another country.
She found comfort and became close to a young man after he rescued her from a cruel prank by jealous classmates that almost killed her.
She tried to find answers for her strange cravings, her unusually pale skin, her aversion to the sun, physical changes, terrible nightmares, but her mother chose to ignore her concerns.
She was determined to find out what was wrong with her but was unprepared for the truth.
The book was well-written and I enjoyed reading it.
Her mother seemed distant, refused to talk about Maura's father, and insisted on a move to another country.
She found comfort and became close to a young man after he rescued her from a cruel prank by jealous classmates that almost killed her.
She tried to find answers for her strange cravings, her unusually pale skin, her aversion to the sun, physical changes, terrible nightmares, but her mother chose to ignore her concerns.
She was determined to find out what was wrong with her but was unprepared for the truth.
The book was well-written and I enjoyed reading it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews