I rated this book 5 stars because it got to me emotionally. I thought the action and mystery were somewhat predictable. I liked the inclusion of the shapeshifters and the differing concept about werewolves from other books. In this series, shapeshifters are pure magic, not biological -- and the shift is not painful. Additionally, the pack encompasses all sorts of weres -- animals of different sorts. I thought that was an intersting concept. I liked the history of the vamps, the references to the suffering that vamps have gone through (and that is a big switch from other series - here vamps are very vulnerable). I like the progression of Merit's character. She is growing, gaining strength and gaining power. Her relationship with Mallory is not a standstill relationship either -- it has gone down and they are trying to fix it. The emotional part - and warning this part has spoilers***************************************************************** -- I actually felt pain when Ethan dumped Mallory. The way it was written deeply effected me -- it seemed so real -- yes it was predictable, but it still hurt. Because I was actually in pain and sad, I give this book 5 stars for moving me in that way -- and good for Merit -- 5 stars to her for not coming back to Ethan in a dead sprint.
