Move Over Harry Potter??

"Move over Harry Potter" is one of the reviews on the back of my copy of the book Twilight. Last night, after many nights (and days) of reading this book, I finished it. I became so engrossed that I began carrying it with me in my purse, even pulling it out to read while waiting in the drive thru at Sonic & while watching election results with friends. Despite all that, I can confidently say that Mr. Harry Potter has nothing to worry about.

Was I caught up in the plot? Yes. Did I like it overall? Yes. But I don't think it matches Harry Potter - nor JK Rowling's ability to weave a story with so many diverse elements - fantasy, adventure, suspense, romance, etc. First of all, this book is definitely, in my opinion, more of a girl book. It's very romantic. In fact, I actually found myself a little romanced out in some parts. In other words, I thought it was a little bit of overkill and cheese sometimes. I love reading romance fiction, so that's saying something.

Of course, I'm going right out to get the second book, New Moon after work. I already read the "sneak peek" of the first chapter on Amazon!! I had to restrain myself from going out and buying the book on my lunch break. I am thinking that the pace of adventure and action picks up from the first book (hoping anyways). Overall, I found Bella's obession with Edward in the first book a little much. I mean, really? She meets him and automatically decides that she would rather die than live without him. Hopelessly romantic, yes. Realistic much? I think not.

Some people have commented that Stephenie Meyer (the author) wrote the books so well that they felt like they were Bella when reading them. I couldn't get to that point because I honestly lost a degree of respect for her in the first book. When Edward comes around she becomes like putty and loses any ability to think or express herself as an individual. Sure, that's how we all are in the beginning stages of a crush, but for her, it just gets worse as the relationshp goes on. Granted, he is supposed to look like a "god" ;) Even so, I think that Edward is a bit overbearing at times and Bella's character becomes a little weak. I found myself rolling my eyes and thinking, "Oh brother." Way to portray women as independent and possessing minds of their own! lol I know it's only fiction, but still!!

All in all, the vampire theme only bothers me a little bit. I spent a lot of my time trying to picture what they must look like - and what Bella must look like (supposedly being so pretty and all- or is she?). And I'm also curious about how she smells. I think I'm going to see the movie because I'm really interested in how they are going to portray the vampires, as well as some of the more graphic scenes. All in all, a good book, but my vote so far is no match for Harry Potter.