This review was first posted on http://www.rubysreads.com. 
 The Calling was my most highly anticipated release for the first part of 2012. However, despite the fact that I received an ARC in the mail early in February (I think), I didn't actually read the book until late in March. Why? You'd think I would have been all over that puppy, but I knew that the sooner I finished The Calling, the sooner I'd have to start waiting for The Rising to be published. And mother of pearl was I right. Once I finally started reading, I didn't lift my head from the book until it was finished, and what a happy/sad moment that was! 
 Kelley Armstrong is a fabulous author. She knows how to craft a story so tightly, that she keeps me on edge each second. Even when I think I know what's going to happen, I never fully believe it until it does. I'm not saying she jerks her readers around--she doesn't!--but she does take them on an adventure they'll remember, and one that will make sense every step of the way. Each step, each event is deliberately planned and executed by the author, and if that's not enough to keep you hooked, there probably isn't any hope for you. 
 In addition to the fabulous story-telling and world-building, all of the characters have depth, even the ones with the smallest roles. Maya is the central character, and as much as I root for her, I don't mind seeing her learn a few salient lessons. Knowing that there are more to come doesn't hurt, either. Maya's so capable, and so in control, and so comfortable with who she is (and devoid of pretense) that she needs a little humility or I'd hate her. Daniel, her male counter-part and best friend is equally as awesome. I'm just sorry he's still a teenager. The third central character, Rafe, is missing for a great deal of the book, and for that I'm grateful. He's a pesky third wheel I wish I could swat with a fly-catcher. 
 I want to finish this review with a thank you to Kelley Armstrong. Seriously, lady, you rock! But more than that, I want to thank you for avoiding that contrived plot technique called Withholding Pertinent Information From Each Other. There was a point in The Calling where I thought I was going to be gravely disappointed and started to get irritated...and then you pulled the rug out from under my head full of steam. Yes, I know I'm mixing metaphors, but this is my blog. I get to.