Review: Wake by Amanda Hocking

By Compelledbywords @compelledbyword
Wake
(Watersong # 1)
by P. C. & Kim Doner
(young adult, urban fantasy, paranormal)
Published: 08-07-12
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Hardcover: 320 pages
Purchase: Amazon
5 butterflies

Synopsis
Gorgeous. Fearless. Dangerous. They're the kind of girls you envy; the kind of girls you want to hate. Strangers in town for the summer, Penn, Lexi and Thea have caught everyone's attention—but it’s Gemma who’s attracted theirs.  She’s the one they’ve chosen to be part of their group.
Gemma seems to have it all—she’s carefree, pretty, and falling in love with Alex, the boy next door.  He’s always been just a friend, but this summer they’ve taken their relationship to the next level, and now there’s no going back.  Then one night, Gemma’s ordinary life changes forever.  She’s taking a late night swim under the stars when she finds Penn, Lexi and Thea partying on the cove.  They invite her to join them, and the next morning she wakes up on the beach feeling groggy and sick, knowing something is different.
Suddenly Gemma is stronger, faster, and more beautiful than ever. But her new powers come with a terrifying price.  And as she uncovers the truth, she’s is forced to choose between staying with those she loves—or entering a new world brimming with dark hungers and unimaginable secrets.

Cover
Ugh, is this not the most beautiful cover ever? I love so much about it I don't even know where to start. The color of the water is just so vivid you feel like you're under it with her. The lighthouse is significant so I'm glad that was added and everything about it screams read me, now. SO pretty!
Characters
The main character is Gemma. If you're also a Sons of Anarchy fan, then you think that's as awesome as I do. Gemma is an amazing character. She's very strong willed and for the most part, she doesn't put up with anyone's crap. Alex is the perfect boyfriend. No matter what comes up, he refuses to stand by and let anything bad happen to his woman. He's the kind of guy every girl wants in her life.
Harper is Gemma's sister that kinda plays the motherly role since their mom isn't around much. I loved her attitude! Alex is her best friend so it gets awkward when he and Gemma start dating but it gets better as the story progresses. Then of course we have the Sirens. I really liked them in the beginning just because I dig hardcore bad ass chicks but once I found out more about them I wanted to set them on fire.
Story
The story is unique to me. I didn't know much about Sirens but Amanda brought it to light for me in this novel. I'm a mythology fiend so when that's brought into the picture you can pretty much always assume I'm going to love it. There's a change in point of views which I think is fabulous in any book. The characters are memorable, the story is engaging, and it makes you yearn for the next installment immediately after you're finished reading. I highly recommend this book!
Quote(s)
Unfortunately I didn't take notes with this one and I read it quite a while ago so I don't have any quotes for you. Sorry guys, you can spank me if you want to. I deserve it.
So the question is...
Do you enjoy reading about water dwelling creatures? What's your favorite mythological creature?
 
DISCLOSURE: All of the reviews posted are my opinions and mine alone. I am in no way paid for them. Every book reviewed was either purchased by me, received for free directly from the publisher/author specifically for review or received via: