Review: Stormwalker by Allyson James

Title: Stormwalker
Author: Allyson James
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Release Date: 05/04/10
Summary:

Janet Begay is a Stormwalker, capable of wielding the raw elemental power of nature, a power that threatens to overwhelm her. Only her lover, Mick, is able to calm the storm within her-even as their passion reaches unimaginable heights of ecstasy.

But when an Arizona police chief's daughter is taken by a paranormal evil, they find themselves venturing where no human can survive-for only together can they overcome the greatest danger they've ever faced.

Plot: 5 Stars
Besides Janet's stormwalking powers, which were unique, there was a whole slew of lore and paranormal creatures in this novel. Between skinwalkers, shapeshifters, dragons, and nightwalkers (a twist on the average vampire), there was never a dull moment. Plus, the idea of the Beneath and the different realities or dimensions that exist were an interesting twist. I hope we get to learn about them more in future novels. The mystery element within the novel and how it connected to Janet was integrated into the paranormal aspects quite well. Although I had figured out certain elements, others caught me completely by surprise.

Pace: 4.5 Stars
This was one of those books that sucked me in immediately and didn't let go. I often fall victim to was I call the 200 page boredom. This is where I'll lose interest in a book around two thirds of the way through because there's a lull in the action right before the climax/resolution at the end. This novel didn't have that at all. It was nonstop action and adventure and mystery from beginning to end. Some of the end scenes could've been elaborated on a bit more because a few details were a bit rushed and confusing, but other than that the pacing was perfect.

Characters: 5 Stars
Janet is one of my favorite new heroines. I haven't liked a main character as much as I enjoyed reading about her in a long time. And her stormwalking powers were so interesting and unique. What I liked most is that she wasn't all-powerful; she couldn't always control her powers and was left feeling hungover afterwards. Mick took a bit longer to come around to, but once I got to know him a little better, I found that I liked his character and his motivations. And the detective was one of those characters you love to hate. He was always there to stir the pot and bring a little more mayhem to the story.

Cover: 5 Star
I absolutely loved this cover. The cover model looked like she could possibly be of Navajo descent, like the main character, Janet. Plus, it's a full body shot of the cover model, which I haven't seen all that often. And it really works. It gives off an air of confidence and don't-mess-with-me that really fit Janet. I also liked the simplicity of the lightning bolt in the background. It gives a hint as to what she can do as a stormwalker and draws you in.

Overall: 5 Stars

Disclosure: I bought this book for my own enjoyment.