Review: Demon Princess: Reign or Shine by Michelle Rowen

Title: Demon Princess: Reign or Shine
Author: Michelle Rowen
Genre: Young Adult
Published: 09/29/09
Summary:

For Nikki Donovan, being a teenager can be hell. Literally.

As if trying to fit in at a new school isn't stressful enough, sixteen-year-old Nikki Donovan just found out that her long-lost father is, in fact, the demon king of the Shadowlands—the world that separates and protects us from the Underworld. When she is brought there by the mysterious—and surprisingly cute—messenger Michael, she learns that her father is dying, and he wants her to assume the throne. To complicate matters, a war is brewing between the Shadowlands and the Underworld, her half-demon qualities are manifesting, and her growing feelings for Michael are completely forbidden. Ruling a kingdom, navigating a secret crush, and still making it home by curfew—what's a teenage demon princess to do?

Plot: 4 Stars
Demon Princess had a very fresh take on demons. I liked that they weren't necessarily bad or evil like most books. The world-building was also top notch, and I hope we'll get to see more of it, like the faery realm, in the next book. Rowen also did a very good job weaving the supernatural adventure into Nikki's every day life that included school and dances.

Pace: 3.5 Stars
The story took a tad bit too long to get to the action at the end. There was a little too much build up to the end conflict and resolution. I felt like it took the main character just a bit too long to figure everything out. But other than that, the story flowed really well and kept me engaged the entire time.

Characters: 4 Stars
I felt that the author really captured the essence of the every day teenager without all of the angst you find all too often in young adult books. All of the characters, no matter how big or small their parts, were well-rounded, multi-dimensional characters. No one seemed flat. Even Nikki's best friend was not the shallow, popular girl she seemed.

Cover: 3 Stars
I'm not the biggest fan of covers that cut off the cover model's face. I feel like the crown could've been smaller so that the model's whole face could be included. The font and choices fit the story well.

Overall: 3.5 Stars

Disclosure: I bought this book for my own enjoyment.