Shelley's Reviews > Gives Light

4.5 Stars

I know that ‘Gives Light’ doesn’t need another glowing review but how can I not when its effect on me is the same. I had NO IDEA the things I would learn and the effect it would all have on me. So this review is about all the things I didn’t know … but now I do :)

I didn’t know that the Moon and the Sun used to be married before they quarrelled and parted ways.

I didn’t know what it felt like to lay on my back by the creek and stare at the stars till my eyes went blurry.

I didn’t know that doves are among the only birds that produce milk for their young.

I didn’t know that the power of a soundless laugh is magnified a thousand times more than a vocal one.

I didn’t know what it felt like to breathe in tandem with a character. It hurts sometimes, but in a wonderful cathartic way.

I didn’t know how much I would covet the life within Nettlebush. Community, heritage, the gift and share economy and belonging somewhere made me ache with longing. I want that too. So much.

I didn’t know that a book could contain actual physical tranquilising side effects.

I didn’t know that the greatest strength of this story would be its quiet gentleness.

I didn’t know how much I too would grow.

I didn’t know that a story could ever bring me so much peace. My soul feels utterly sated.

I didn’t know that it would be among the most memorable books I’ve ever read.

I didn’t know how grateful and humbled I would feel for having read it.

I didn't know that this book would turn me into such a damn sap!

Urgh, I'm done with these YA books (after I read the rest of this series), all these stupid happy-shiny emotions will be ruining my rep. So. Anyone up for a blood curdling, angst ridden, erotic orgy, with cheating and zombies?

This review is the result of a reading challenge that Susan threw down for the team at BIOB. You can check out our group review plus enter the giveaway to win all 4 books in the series (Posted 16/03/2014).