Title: Half-Blood
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: (Covenant #1)
Published: October 18th 2011 by Spencer Hill Press
 

What else can I add when every thing has been said and done?

So I’ll just gonna answer these questions that was bugging me when I was about to read this book. For my own pleasure, of course.

First and foremost, the one million dollar question—so does it remind me of Vampire Academy?
Not only it reminded me of Vampire Academy, it felt like I was re-reading the series. Not kidding here, it was a complete (well, rip-off is a bit harsh for me) reminiscent of the series. From the characters, to the events, even the romance. However, I’m not gonna judge Ms. Armentrout and I’m giving her the benefit of the doubt (which she obviously deserves). I don’t think her publisher allowed her to publish her novel knowing that her work might be a copy of another—successful I may add—book series. She might be just a huge fan of Ms. Mead—or whatever it was the reason that this book is somehow similar to VA.

What can I say about the characters?
I liked the characters, that’s for sure. They’re notable. Although half of them reminded me (again) of the characters from VA. In fact, I can point which is one is who, like a matching type quiz. Nonetheless, it was ok. At least they need not to impress me anymore since I already have a pre-notion about them (I’m looking too much on the bright side).

I liked Alex better than Rose. I liked her feisty character. She’s a smart chick. Aidan also reminded me of Dimitri, the strict trainer, bound to rules, but secretly “in love” with Alex (just like Dimitri to Rose before). And just like the odd couple (odd for me, insert your own adjective if you like) they cannot be together (at first). She’s a half, he’s pure and that’s forbidden hence not meant to be. But you know the power of love—so let just say I’m interested how they’ll come together.

And Seth? He ain’t no Adrian. And this is where the originality comes in. He’s the only character I found unique. Yep, the only one. He’s sticking out like a sore thumb (in a good way of course). He’s definitely a different character altogether. He’s very vital to the plot, and to our main heroine, Alex. I’m truly keen to know more about him, and what’s gonna happen next especially the part how he’s bonded to Alex.

Did I like it?
Yes, I did. Surprisingly. If I didn’t know VA I might increase the rating a bit higher. But the unoriginal factor (at least the first half of the book only) weighed a bit much on my decision. But definitely enjoyable. If you disregard the resemblances and truly focus on the story alone, you’ll enjoy it. I guarantee.

Final words?
Look, if you like VA, you probably will like it too. In a strange, bizarre way it’s also its selling point. It has the same charm as VA—kick ass heroine, solid plotline, and wonderfully explored concept (I truly liked the idea of mythology used here, and the half and pure bloods). I was halfway though the book when its own plot started to reel. So it wasn’t really a poor carbon copy of VA. The way it ended, I can see the sequel standing on its own. No more rip-off allegation… hopefully.