Bookish Treasures

4.5 starsThe first book in this series, Stitch, is one of the best books I have read this year. Needless to say I was very eager to read the second instalment in this unique New Adult dystopian series. Whilst Shudder was not quite as good as the first it was still amazing. It is packed full of exciting action, thrilling suspense and beautiful romance. Although this does not have the mind boggling twists of Stitch, there are still plenty of shocking revelations that kept me on my toes throughout.Samantha is a master of suspense; everything is shrouded in mystery so you are never quite sure what is going on. This is further enhanced by some characters from the first book being called different names (for various reasons that will make sense if you read the book).Alessa is so beautifully real in this book. She is working for the rebellion yet part of her wants to stop fighting and just live a calm safe life with those she loves. Throughout the book she struggles with the moral dilemma of weather to just keep her friends and family safe or to risk everything for the greater good. I loved this aspect of the book as Alessa’s earlier thoughts make her final choices so much more moving.Isaac is such a great character and I one of my favourite parts of Shudder is that we finally get to see him and Alessa together. They have such a beautiful romance though of course it has a lot of pressure being put on it by external influences.The secondary characters come alive more in this book. A favourite for me was “Phoenix” who seemed to have such a fresh understanding of all that was going on. Both her and also Nikhil are two of the characters who had minimal roles in book 1 to then become important figures.This book is from a few more pov’s than the first which helps to give the reader a greater perspective of the whole story. We even get to see how Paragon and all that is happening is viewed by those who created it. Now that is a very interesting perspective to see. Overall this is another fantastic book by Samantha Durante. I was expecting an incredible read and Shudder did not disappoint. The ending comes with a few shocking reveals that (yet again) leaves me desperate to read the next (and final) book of this trilogy. I highly recommend Shudder and if you are yet to read Stitch then what are you waiting for? Read it now!*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this has not affected my opinions or rating in any way*