Book Review: The Evolution of Mara Dyer

The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin
October 23, 2012
Simon & Schuster
544 pages
Source: ARC from publisher

Goodreads Summary:

Mara Dyer once believed she could run from her past.

She can’t.

She used to think her problems were all in her head.

They aren’t.

She couldn’t imagine that after everything she’s been through, the boy she loves would still be keeping secrets.

She’s wrong.

In this gripping sequel to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, the truth evolves and choices prove deadly. What will become of Mara Dyer next?

My Review:

First, I'm glad I reread Unbecoming before starting this one. It had been months and the refresher was perfect, because there is so much that is going on and I wanted to be able to dwell on and enjoy every morsel. There's a reason this series is among my favorites.

Now, I want to say that this is a great book. By the end, I was like "WOW!" It wasn't a quick read for me. So much is going on and I felt like I needed to absorb it in increments. There's just so much happening. It's such a psychological journey, and you don't know which way is up at times. But it kept me on the edge of my seat and guessing. While I figured out some stuff, much of the other stuff took me completely by surprise. Plus, there were so many situations occurring that added so much to the story, that I would have never thought about adding.

Mara is a great character because I could completely see where she battled knowing whether she was in reality or not. She tried to be strong, but she just had every single obstacle against her. But then there was Noah, who believed in her. Noah was dedicated and attentive, yet held a certain aloofness. I liked how the author brought the deeper things about Noah out gradually. But even in his mysteriousness, he was such a noble guy. I loved their relationship. Seriously, you really would have to be crazy not to love Noah! I was also so happy to be reunited with the gem that is Jamie.

Michelle Hodkin did an amazing job blending the real with the crazy, the memories with the paranormal. And the ending was amazing, leaving me wanting more and very excited where the last book will take us (I mean, will take Mara).

5+ ECSTATIC STARS