Starcrossed || Josephine Angelini

Book: Starcrossed
Author: Josephine Angelini
Pages: 496
Source: NetGalley 
Dessert: Rainbow Cake- A surprising and loveable flavor in every layer! A perfect balance!

(Review contains mild spoilers)

Summary: Helen has always known she was too fast and too strong to be human. When the mysterious and stunning Delos family moves onto the small island where she resides, her world is torn apart with rage. She can't understand why she feels a deep and passionate hatred towards them, and unfortunately, the feeling is mutual. Nightmares of the underworld plague her sleep, and the furies (evil and ancient spirits) force the members of the Delos family and her together in almost near-death confrontations. When an unlikely twist of fate causes Helen and Lucas, a son of the Delos family, to save each other's lives, the thousand-year rage in their blood melts away. They can look at each other for the first time, and feel emotions other than hatred. They inevitably fall in love. But love is never simple as they soon discover that the mysterious force that draws them together, is the same force that will tear them apart. Helen's family history is much more complicated than she knows, and it seems only she can save the feuding demigod houses from annihilating each other. But that's nearly impossible when she has the face that launched 1,000 ships. The same face as Helen of Troy. Will history repeat itself?
 
Review: You may think you're stumbling upon another cliche Greek Mythology romance, but that couldn't be more incorrect! Of course, the historical Greek aspect is still deeply embedded in the story, but Josephine Angelini has a great sense of style and humor that had me spellbound! I didn't see how the romance between Helen and Lucas was going to unfold at first, but it soon became clear that they were nothing shy of a perfect couple. Another thing I loved, was that romance was not entirely the main plot. Helen's mysterious lineage/powers and the ancient wars between demi-god families kept me on my toes throughout the whole book! I was surprised at how comfortable the author was with writing bloody action scenes! It added a powerful dimension to the story. I know that Starcrossed is the beginning of what's going to be a GREAT trilogy.

Every single page was vivid. I loved the story, the concept, and most of all, the characters! Very rarely do I read a book where I can laugh and empathize with each character.

Main Character Overviews:

Helen Hamilton: Angelini played along a delicate balance with Helen's character. Helen was strong, but not too strong. She was naive, but not rash. She was in love, and yet it did not blind her better judgement. I could not have asked for more suitable combinations! She's thoughtful, courageous, and there wasn't an ounce of complaint uttered! Helen is exceptional!

Lucas Delos: Lucas is a slightly more stereotypical male character. He's overprotective of Helen and would do anything to keep her out of harm's way; not to mention he's downright gorgeous. He is a son of Apollo and therefore has the ability to fly, bend/defy gravity, and refract light. He cares deeply for every member of his family, but reveals a vulnerable side only to Helen. Although he may love her, he understands that his duty to his family and House must take priority over his own self-interest.

Hector Delos: He is the more physical cousin of Lucas Delos. Hector is the eldest child in the Delos family, and therefore harbors a little too much pride. Despite this, he truly wants this best for his large family and will do whatever it takes to protect them. Even if it means breaking the most sacred oath between the demigods.

Jason & Ariadne Delos: Twins gifted with the power of healing. At first, I was on edge about Ariadne's character. She started out seeming like the kind of girl who's popular and flaunts everything she's got. I was so wrong! Ariadne grew to become one of my favorite characters. She's sweet, caring, and thoughtful in a humerus and lighthearted way! Jason is slightly more reserved, and when I first came upon his character, I thought he would be the one to form a love-triangle between Lucas, Helen, and him. I was very wrong... again. Jason is extremely intelligent and always the peacemaker between Lucas and Hector. I can't wait to see his relationship with Claire blossom!

Cassandra Delos: The younger sister of Lucas, and an oracle. She is wise beyond her years, but trapped inside the youthful body of a 13 year-old girl. She can foresee glimpses of the future and tries her hardest to warn Helen about the dangers that await her.

Claire Aoki: Helen's 5'2" best friend. Her upbeat and persistent attitude makes her a great and dependable friend who Helen isn't afraid to confide in. After a particular Delos twin saves her life, they grow quite fond of each other.

Rate & Recommend: I would like to proudly present Starcrossed with a 4.5 out of 5! It is definitely one of the best books I've read in 2011 thus far! Of course, you can't compare the depth and magnitude of this story to that of Newberry Award winning novels, but it's definitely a story that kept me up late at night! Every aspect of Starcrossed is perfectly balanced: from the romance to the action and mystery. I HIGHLY recommend it for all YA lovers!