Evernight by Claudia Gray

HarperTeen, 2008.
(Age 14+) Teen romance, vampire angst, and ancient hatred all feature prominently in this plot driven story. Bianca has been enrolled in the exclusive Evernight Academy by her parents who also teach at the school and who are convinced that she needs to broaden her horizons and join the real world. Bianca doesn't fit in with the perfect students, all sleek and beautiful in their tailored uniforms. She wants to escape but then she meets another newcomer, Lucas, and feels an instant rapport with him, although he warns her to be careful. Can their love survive their differences and what are the secrets that the school is hiding?
The story is told in the first person from Bianca's point of view. Right from the start I was drawn into the plot and found it hard to put down as I followed Bianca's attempts to fit in and find friends and her growing obsession with Lucas. Bianca, although initially shy and rather withdrawn, grows into a strong heroine who is prepared to fight for what she wants. There are a couple of big surprises in the book and a third love interest with Balthazar, a very popular senior, as well as the inevitable battle between the vampires and their hunters.
Gray has written a suspenseful story with a great romance and her exploration of how vampires would need to survive in a modern world is leavened with humour. Readers who loved the Twilight series will love this book as well, and sequels are on the way!
Pat Pledger