I’m surprised. I’m stunned. I’m slightly embarrassed. What can I say? I actually like this melodramatic, teenage love story saga. I need help. I’m even more surprised because, although I loved Twilight, I despised New Moon to such an extent that I vowed never to return to the series. I kept that vow for months too. Bella was such a brainless, self centered, over-dramatic, suicidal maniac in New Moon, I couldn’t possibly imagine ever liking or respecting the series again. Yet, somehow, Eclipse redeemed previous foibles and the series is back, bigger and better than before.

In Eclipse author Stephenie Meyer runs several complex plot threads together creating a surprisingly dynamic atmosphere that matures the emotional connection between Edward and Bella and adds an emotionally shattering dimension to the rapidly evolving romance. Graduation is only weeks away and Bella is anticipating her entrance into the world of the immortals yet excitement is turning into nervousness. As a coven of newborn vampires wreaks havoc in nearby Seattle, Bella worries that her transformation will truly make her a monster. Meanwhile, Alice foretells that the mysterious coven in Seattle means the Cullens particular harm.

Bella’s werewolf friend, and would be paramour, Jacob Black is attempting to woo Bella back to a mortal life with him. This surprising turn in the story keeps the emotional tension tightly wound, adding an aura of immediacy as readers side with either Edward or Jacob. Bella, being her typical undecided self, is especially torn by such a predicament and Eclipse takes on a sadder, more mature tone. One can’t have a vampire, and a werewolf. In the adult world, something must be lost for something else to be maintained. Myer highlights the tension to such an extent that readers are truly unsure which boyfriend Bella will pick. Impressive.

The dilemma also heightens the characterization that was allowed to stagnate in the odious New Moon. Jacob and the La Push werewolves truly come into their own in this particular installment. Pack dynamics, life as a werewolf, and the developing strife on the reservation takes up about half the story, immersing the reader in another world. The werewolves are similar to Meyer’s vampires in that, although they are technically monsters, their humanity and emotions shines through making the terrifying beautiful. Jacob becomes a central protagonist and although readers will certainly want to deck him at times, Meyer’s enables the die-hard-Edward fans to sympathize with this interloper in Bella’s affections. It makes a happy ending impossible but keeps the heart strings straining.

The Cullen family, like the werewolf pack, is further developed to stunning effect, I might add. Rosalie and Jasper, in particular, are finally allowed to reveal their own dramatic stories, fully fleshing them out. Alice remains her usual rambunctious, lovable self. Most importantly, Edward is still every girl’s dream boyfriend. His love of Bella shines as true and the previous sappy aura from Twilight, although still strong, is toned down as the romance hits the rocks (thanks to Jacob.) Edward shows some chinks in his armor and the humanizing emotions, jealousies, and eternal pain that must be his makes readers’ hearts bleed.

Along with the love triangle theme, Meyer adds the typical dose of action, near death experiences, and yes *sigh* some Bella related stupidity. Bella still isn’t my favourite character. Her desire to give up her immortal soul and live forever with Edward seems childish when she is afraid to marry him. She’s even pestering Edward to have sex with her (finally, folks) but she is afraid of marriage. So eternity and sex are ok, but marriage is a big no-no. What!!!??? Did I miss something? Doesn’t make sense, sorry. Bella still endangers herself needlessly, tells the werewolves things she shouldn’t, and seems pretty negligent over protecting Charlie. She doesn’t deserve Edward! Just send him to me. . .

But, back to the action. I was surprised to see a decent showdown this time. The book was going along very well, but with memories of New Moon still dancing in my head, I was waiting for it to spiral back downward. It didn’t. The final fight was actually gory (yippie!), and several loose plot threads left over from previous books were tied up. As the action spirals, someone central in hurt leading into a nice, confrontational conclusion. Very happy, happy. I was surprised by the distinctly depressing, albeit bittersweet conclusion, yet it fit. This was the way it was supposed to end and I was surprised that I actually wanted to cry after reading the epilogue. Ok, I definitely know that I need help now. . .

And, even better, the plain writing style is improving. Eclipse was loaded with descriptive sequences of places, people, emotions, and outcomes. What can I say; I was head-over-heels for Eclipse. I’m ashamed to say it, but I actually started Breaking Dawn immediately afterward and am rushing to discover the end of the series before school starts back in a week. I’ve forgiven Meyer for New Moon and am back to being fully addicted. Wonderful and unexpected, Eclipse is actually an epic read. Highly recommended.

Countess_Eva

Twilight Stuff:

Twilight: The Movie
Twilight: The Book
New Moon