I teetered from 3 to 4 stars on this one from the time I began reading it until I finished it. If I could give half stars, it would be a 3.5 but alas I can't, and so I finally decided on putting it as a 4 star. 
 The character of Mara Dyer is loveable. I truly enjoyed reading her tale. She is not annoying and her connection with Noah doesn't make you want to gag. She's not all wrapped up in herself like so many other YA heroins these days. Her connection with her family, especially her two bothers was refreshing to read and I enjoyed it very much. 
 This book has an intriguing story, an enticing love interest, and an interesting plot development... BUT it was confusing at times and as much as I hate to admit it, truly dragged on in too many places. This is the reason why I certainly couldn't give it a five star rating even though the love story alone made me want to. What can I say?? I'm a sucker for romance and this book has plenty of that! 
 In fact, some might argue that this book really ONLY has that. And I don't think I could disagree. This is less of a supernatural thriller (much less) and more of a love story over all. I wouldn't go as far as saying that it's like Twilight or anything, but lets face it, it IS the first part of a saga and has the same... essence (for lack of a better word) as Twilight does. Wether that gets you running to the stores to buy a copy or leaves you running screaming for the hills....THAT is entirely up to you. :)