LET THE SKY FALL by Shannon Messenger

I really enjoyed this book--more than I thought I would :).

Let the Sky Fall by Shannon Messenger is a book about windtalkers (aka sylphs), who actually speak the language of the four winds: North, South, East and West.  It's also the story of a boy named Vane Weston--who doesn't know he's not human--and the girl of his dreams--who is actually Audra, his guardian tasked to keep him safe and to unlock his memories.

Great concept, and the way the story is written really makes you feel close to the characters while still maintaining the plot.

That is what I think this YA has over other books.  We get to see into both Vane and Audra's thoughts thanks to a really fantastic dual POV.  This is not one of those books where you'll confuse who is speaking.  Vane and Audra were both well-rounded, unique characters, and each had a distinct voice.  Loved that!

Also, the plot itself is revealed in an interesting way.

As Audra trains Vane to use the languages of the wind, we see the development of their relationship.  I think the setting was SO important here.  Instead of placing us in Audra's world where there's chaos and Stormers and a government ruled by sylphs who want to destroy the humans, we stay right in Vane's backyard.

It's almost like Audra and Vane are secluded from the rest of the world--which is where the romance comes in <3.  These two characters were so into each other it wasn't even funny.  Vane, who's been dreaming about Audra, can't believe it.  Now, she's real and right there and close enough to touch.  And Audra, who's supposed to be strictly hands off, can't help but want him just as much as he wants her.

Intense, believable, and utterly swoonworthy romance.

And then, of course, we get the reasons they can't be together: 1) If Vane kisses Audra, it will create a bond between them.  2) In Audra's world, the Westons are actually royalty, and there's no way she'd be a suitable match for Vane.  3) In that same world, Vane has already been promised to another girl.  I loved all of the obstacles in their way.

I especially loved how Vane didn't give a crap about any of that :).  Audra was the girl he wanted, and no one (not even Audra) could convince him otherwise.  He even had a sense of humor.  Vane was my favorite.  Period.

This book had so much going for it.  I loved Vane's foster parents, who were present and concerned and communicated with Vane.  His foster mom, in particular, was one of my very most favorite characters.  The writing was fast-paced and snappy.  The story covered all its bases, NO plot holes, always a reason/explanation for everything.  The romance was a big YES!

At the end, I couldn't wait for book 2.  I'd recommend to anyone who likes YA with interesting characters, cool powers, forbidden romance and dual POV.  Definitely a good read!

Happy reading,

Ninja Girl