A Need So Beautiful is a paranormal like no other I’ve read. And it is beautiful.
I really can’t tell you too much about the premise. If I told you that Charlotte’s skin starts to flake off and under it is a beautiful golden glow – well – if you’re like me you would say, “That sounds stupid.” So, I won’t tell you that.
Charlotte is compelled to help people. She feels what she calls “a need” and if she doesn’t follow her compulsion, she is in extreme pain. The need always leads her to someone who she can help in some way, usually just by telling them something. The need is happening more often, and she’s having a hard time keeping it from her friends and family. Young does such a great job describing these episodes and Charlotte’s difficulties that you really believe this and I really could feel Charlotte’s pain.
Young has written a romance, too. There’s no insta-love here. Harlan and Charlotte are already deeply in love when the story begins. There’s the implication of sex, but no actual description. Their relationship is a believable teenage love story.
The book has excellent secondary characters. Charlotte’s adopted mom, her brother, Alex, and her friend, Sarah all play a role in the story. But the most interesting character is Monroe, Charlotte’s doctor. I enjoyed their conversations and the way their story played out.
I always have to tell you when I cry during a book because it happens so rarely. The ending had me in tears. This is really a positive, feel-good book. It’s tender and beautiful. It’s heartbreaking and redeeming. I think teens who like paranormal, especially angel stories will love this one, but I won’t hesitate to recommend this to adults, although I’d stick to women.
Published by Balzer & Bray, June 21, 2011
Copy purchased by me
267 pages
Rating: 4.5/5
This is next in my TBR pile! Thanks for the review!!
ReplyDeleteAdding to my TBR stacks also. It sounds a lot better than the blurp about it.
ReplyDeleteAw, a cry book? Been a while since I've read one of those. Great review!
ReplyDeleteMary @ Book Swarm
The premise is unique! And I like the fact that there is no insta-romance here. It sounds like a great read, especially since the ending had such an effect on you.
ReplyDeleteOooh I finished this one over the weekend. So heartbreaking.
ReplyDeleteI think the first time I'd read about this novel's premise, I was already intrigued by the idea that someone would "hurt" if they couldn't help someone else. Definitely need to read this one!
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