The Emerald Talisman - Brenda Pandos

To be normal, sixteen-year-old Julia Parker would shed her empathic gift in a second. Life has been difficult since her mother's mysterious disappearance ten years earlier - an event she witnessed, but can't remember. Julia's situation becomes more complicated after a near death experience from a blood thirsty stalker. As high school students go missing it is clear there is a connection to her own experience--past and present. Someone has to stop the madness and a chance encounter with a creepy psychic foretells that only Julia is the key to stopping the madness, but it may require the life of the one she loves.

(Synopsis taken from goodreads.)

Title: The Emerald Talisman

Author: Brenda Pandos

Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Vampires

Publisher: Obsidian Mountain Publishing

Publication Date: March 24, 2010

My Rating: 4/5

Julia isn't your normal everyday girl, though she would love to be. She is an empath, and hasn't really found her abilities all that useful. That is, until she makes a decision that could end up killing her. Now, more than ever, she will need to watch her back and rely on her abilities so she doesn't end up dead, or worse.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and devoured it at a leisurely pace. I enjoyed Julia's character and growth throughout the book. Originally, I wasn't all that impressed with her, but as she responds to certain situations throughout the book, I grew to really like her. I especially enjoyed the chemistry between her and Nicholas, and kept wanting to read more about him. I also really enjoyed her group of friends and hope we get to see more of them in the sequel.

I found the plot fast-paced, and engaging. Julia's love and compassion for her friends, and those around her really helps showcase her character. I loved the mystery surrounding certain characters, and events, and even now I am left wondering what exactly is going to happen next. The mystery deepens the further you get into the book, leaving you with questions for the sequel. The book also has its own unique spin on the vampire mythos making it a refreshing read.

All in all, this was an excellent page-turner. It captured my interest immediately, and never let go. Pandos is definitely one to watch. This is a great debut, and would be a worthy addition to any collection.

Many thanks goes to Brenda Pandos for sending me this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review.