Hush, Hush series: Finale

This book, as suggested by the title, is the last one of the Hush, Hush series by Becca Fitzpatrick. This is a YA novel, fairly typical in some ways of other YA urban fantasy novels: boy/girl love story, some supernatural element, and a nearly insurmountable obstacle between boy and girl. Yes, the formula has been done (and I'm not only talking about a certain sparkly vampire and his codependent girlfriend). Honestly, most genre novels follow a pattern, and it works for them. Heck, I love these books; I have an entire bookshelf—and several totes—full of them. It's the details that make these books great or a yawn-fest.

Luckily, the Hush, Hush series has got it going on. These books work. One reason is Patch's bad boy but good guy personality. Another is Nora's snarky sense of humor and go-get-'em attitude. A third reason is Vee's, the best friend's, spunky personality and unquestioning loyalty. A fourth is the bond of friendship between the major players. Also, the plotline is rather interesting, dealing with fallen angels and Nephilim. But more than this, it is a story about the power of love and redemption.

In Finale, Nora and Patch face their greatest trial ever. Being a Nephilim and a fallen angel, the two of them have this Romeo and Juliet story going on, not to mention the approaching war between the two species and what looks to be an imminent blood bath. Throw in a returning character who is both hot and charming, a plot twist or two, and a massive will of character, and the ending is everything I hoped for. As a bonus, the author gives us a peak into the future to round out the series. Very nicely done.

One note, though, why does it seem like all the parents in all these books are completely clueless about what their children are really doing? Seriously! No parent is that stupid or apathetic to their kids (well, not all parents; not the vast majority). I could never get away with anything when I was a teenager.