Historically, sequels and multi-chapter series tend to be let-downs. When a blockbuster story captures the public's attention, we typically anticipate the follow-ups that inevitably disappoint. Contrary to this expected decline in enthusiasm, I found each stage of the Twilight Saga to be substantially more entertaining that its predecessor.
While New Moon took on emotional plot twists that stunned Twilight fans, it opened the door for broader and more compelling story lines. Skeptical about Eclipse's ability to maintain the intensity, I entered the third stage of the Twilight Saga prepared to be under whelmed. With mild amusement, I found my doubts fading quickly as I sank my teeth into Meyer's third Twilight installment.
As in Twilight and New Moon, nearby Seattle is still wracked by mysterious killings and clumsy Bella Swan is still unsettled by her love for vampire Edward Cullen and her friendship with werewolf Jacob Black. Bella and the Cullens eventually deduce that the murders in Seattle are being committed by Victoria and an army of newborn vampires, created to satisfy Victoria's lust for revenge over the death of her vampire mate. The Cullen family strike and uneasy truce with the La Push werewolf pack and join forces to combat the impending threat of the newborn vampires.
Eclipse continues to underscore Bella's anguish, acknowledging that her heart is torn between her true love, Edward and her unrequited love for Jacob. Wracked with trepidation, she realizes how her desire to become a vampire will impact the people she loves most. Throughout Eclipse, we see Bella's struggle to justify the ramifications of her actions before she reaches the final decision about a vampire eternity.
Included in the fun of the Eclipse novel are more historical details about the vampires themselves. Revealing secrets about Jasper's past and startling events that threatened to expose the vampire race, including bloody vampire wars. Meyer serves up tasty tidbits for those who like an intriguing back story.
With the threat of newborn vampires approaching, Bella won't allow herself to be left behind during the action. The thought of her true love or best friend being injured is more than she can bear. Bella and Edward use Bella's scent to lure the newborn vampires, which will lead them to into a trap. In the ultimate Twilight battle, Victoria's newborn vampires must face the Cullen coven and their werewolf allies.
Another respectful nod to Stephenie Meyer for penning a story that draws you in and holds you in its grip. Whether you cheer for werewolves or vampires - whether you long for Bella to choose Jake or Edward - whether you're a fan of horror tales or romance novels - Twilight Eclipse will capture your imagination. And ultimately, isn't that the epitome of what any good storyteller can hope for?
An agonizing love triangle. A tense alliance between vampires and werewolves. Vengeance-driven danger from Victoria's vampires and the ever-present threat of the Volturi overshadowing every decision. Twilight Eclipse has plenty of bite to keep you turning the pages.
Robust and full of drama, Eclipse does just that; it eclipses previous Twilight chapters with heightened action and the looming decision Bella must face about her future with Edward. It's a gripping tale of action, romance and suspense that will leave you anxious to crack the cover of the final Twilight installment.
