Title: Come Hell or High Water
Author: Michele Bardsley
First published December 18, 2009
308 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780451228789 (ISBN10: 0451228782)
Rating: 4.13
Overview
In Chuck Palahniuk’s latest novel, meet Madison, a young girl who unexpectedly finds herself in Hell without a clue as to why. As she navigates the fiery landscape, Madison tries to make the most of her eternal damnation.
Palahniuk describes this novel as “The Breakfast Club set in Hell,” a unique story that will leave you wondering what happens next. With influences from The Shawshank Redemption, The Lovely Bones, and even Judy Blume, Damned is a tale that will captivate and surprise you at every turn.
About the Author
Michele Bardsley, a bestselling author on both New York Times and USA Today, specializes in writing humorous paranormal romances and mysteries. When she’s not busy writing, Michele enjoys indulging in some of her favorite hobbies, like reading, crocheting hats, sipping on wine, and treating herself to some delicious chocolate.
Be sure to check out her website for more information!
Editoral Review
Michele Bardsleys Come Hell or High Water is a paranormal romance novel first published on December 18, 2009. Bardsley is an American author known for her witty and engaging storytelling style.
This book is set in Broken Heart, Oklahoma, and is the fourth installment in the Broken Heart Vampires series. The story follows the life of a small-town librarian, Stacia St. Clair, who has recently discovered that she is a shape-shifting dragon.
She also learns that her parents, who she thought were dead, are alive and are members of an ancient dragon clan. This revelation sets off a quest for self-discovery and a fight for survival as she navigates through the complicated relationships of her newfound family and the danger they face from their enemies.
Bardsleys writing style is smooth and easy to follow, making the story enjoyable and engaging from start to finish. The character development is also brilliantly executed, with each character having their distinct personality and backstory that makes them relatable.
One of the strengths of the book is the way the author weaves fantastical elements into everyday life, creating a captivating fantasy world that feels real and authentic. Bardsley also addresses themes of self-discovery, redemption, and the meaning of family, giving the story depth and substance.
However, the book is not without its flaws. The pacing is uneven at times, with some sections moving too quickly while others drag on.
One of the conflicts in the book, the threat from the dragon hunters, could have been developed more, providing a more significant sense of danger and urgency. In terms of genre, Come Hell or High Water fits into the paranormal romance category, blending elements of the supernatural with romance.
It will appeal to readers who enjoy a blend of action, adventure, and romance in their novels. Overall, Come Hell or High Water is an enjoyable and well-written novel with captivating characters, a unique world, and an engaging storyline.
It is an excellent addition to the Broken Heart Vampires series, and while it can be read as a standalone, readers who have followed the series from the beginning will appreciate the continuity and connections with earlier books. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy paranormal romance and adventure, and rate it 4 out of 5 stars.