Breaking Dawn

I am a Jacob fan. After reading the first 3 books a second time, I barely even liked Bella! I felt the injustice in her actions toward Jacob, very strongly. She became a whiny, lovesick teenie-bopper to me. And Edward was too over the top and possessive. I couldn't be happy where I thought the books were going.

So, I put off reading Book 4, Breaking Dawn, as long as possible (3 days!) I loaned it to someone, then I re-read the first 3 in the series, but I finally opened it last night at 9pm. I thought I'd take it slow, sure it would disappoint me. I read until 2am, then picked it back up at 8am and read until 11am, finishing in 8 hours.

I thought the book was delicious. I am amazed at what Stephenie Meyer was able to do. I find it unusual that I like each book independent of the others. They are all part of the larger tale, but each tell a wonderful story alone.

The events in the book immortalized all the characters in a perfect state, for me. I have no negative feeling for any. Not even Rosalie! Stephenie Meyer completed each character's story (could she start writing for LOST, please?) I had a secret desire for Bella's future and that was realized. I loved that Jacob was made happier than I thought possible. Saying that each character had a happy ending doesn't begin to cover the feeling of closure this book provided. Sometimes I feel a little 'depressed' when a series ends, wishing I it wasn't over, but this ending was perfect. Mrs. Meyer is a genius.

I love that these books are clean . . . a few unnecessary swear words and a few references to married relations (but no pre-marital relations!) I still think this series is best for girls over 18, but you all know what a prude I am about books. I am proud that Stephenie Meyer claims her education from my Alma mater, BYU. Damian and she were in a ward (congregation) together their freshmen year. I am so proud of the way she's written these books, full of her values and morals. She has taught wonderful lessons to the world. I've never read another Vampire book and probably never will. To me, these books are about the MESSAGE and the characters are secondary. The messages are:

Good Always Conquers Evil, in the End
Love Triumphs Over All and is Eternal
FAMILY is the Most Important Thing There Is
Sacrificing for Those you Love Makes all Things Better
You CAN Control your Weaknesses and NOT Give into Temptation
It is Worth it to WAIT for the Best Things in Life
There IS Life after Death and Justice and Mercy for All