Review: Thirteen

Thirteen by Kelley Armstrong
 Published by Dutton Book Released on July 24, 2012
Urban Fantasy


 From Goodreads: War is coming to the Otherworld. A sinister cult known as The Supernatural Liberation Movement is hell-bent on exposing the truth about supernaturals to the rest of the world. Their violent, ruthless plan has put everyone at risk: from werewolves to vampires, from witches to half-demons. 


 Savannah Levine - fiery and unpredictable - stands at the heart of the maelstrom. There is a new, dark magic inside her, granting her the power to summon spells of terrifying strength. But whether this magic is a gift or a curse, no one knows. 


 On the eve of battle, all the major players must come together in a last, desperate fight for survival - Elena and Clay; Adam and Savannah; Paige and Lucas; Jeremy and Jaime; Hope, Eve and more...They are fighting for lives. 


 They are fighting for their loved ones. 
 They are fighting for the Otherworld. 


 With 13, Kelley Armstrong ends the Women of the Otherworld series with her version of a happily ever after. Most of the book from Savannah's point of view. However, there are some chapters dedicated to Jaime, Paige, Elena, and Hope. Throughout, the Otherworld series, Ms. Armstrong has introduced a plethora of interesting and dynamic characters. 13 brings them all together for one last save-the-world adventure.


 As mentioned before, Savannah is 13's main narrator. We have watched Savannah grow up all through the series. This is her final coming of age story. She has had to reconcile her loss of powers with the ability to make good choices and take care of herself. Savannah discovers that her magic doesn't identify her as a person. She is just as strong without her magical abilities. She is continually tested but she continues to refuse the tempting for stronger powers.


 In the first half of the book, Eve plays a significant role. Ms. Armstrong tells a wonderful mother/daughter bond that even death can't destroy. However, I love how a daughter can emerge from her Mother's shadow and be her own person - strong, moral, and caring. Savannah knowing that Eve would do anything to protect her, finds strength and confidence to face her battles. Savannah, also, faces her guilt and grief over her father's death. The scenes between Kristof and Savannah are beautifully written and very emotional.


 Love never really plays a primary role in Kelley Armstrong's books. However, Savannah and Adam was a nice reprieve from the overall plot. Their romance didn't overwhelm the story, but did add some spice to the story. Savannah isn't romantic person and I really enjoyed her honesty and forthrightness with Adam. She really grew up when her relationship with Adam changed to more than friends. She experiences some insecurities, but I found that refreshing coming from her.


 In my opinion, the best part of 13 is all the Otherworld characters coming together for a final battle. Paige and Lucas; Elena and Clayton; Jaime and Jeremy; Savannah and Adam; Eve and Kristof; Hope and Karl; Cassandra and Aaron - all present and accounted for. Plus, one surprise character that I won't reveal. It's a shocker! I found it amazing how Ms. Armstrong could keep all the characters engaged without overwhelming the reader.


 Ms. Armstrong gave us a wonderful farewell to the Otherworld series. However, The ending is open-ended which leaves plenty of opportunity to carry on with more Otherworld stories. I have a feeling we aren't seeing the end for these wonderful characters. 


 Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars