Scan barcode
mostly_present's review
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Racism, Sexism, Toxic relationship, Stalking, and Gaslighting
Moderate: Body horror, Death, Incest, Blood, Murder, Sexual harassment, and Colonisation
Minor: Suicide, Forced institutionalization, Suicide attempt, and Schizophrenia/Psychosis
The book has a constant prevailing feeling of internalised misogyny related to gender roles There is throughout a racist depiction of a very real Native American tribe, with near all real world mythology and religion replaced with the authors ramblingsemdestructable's review
I wanted to watch the movie so obviously I “had to” read the books first. It was a complete waste of time and I missed the wave/hype 20 years ago and I just could put my adult mind into a preteen/teen perspective needed to enjoy this.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Toxic relationship, and Stalking
strangelove_mp3's review
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Emotional abuse, Toxic relationship, Stalking, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Ableism, Blood, Medical content, and Murder
Minor: Incest
skyeshark1's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Death, Emotional abuse, Gore, Violence, Xenophobia, Blood, and Medical content
Minor: Animal death, Pedophilia, Torture, Toxic relationship, Violence, Grief, Religious bigotry, Stalking, Gaslighting, Toxic friendship, and Alcohol
betonylark's review
dark
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
0.25
The Twilight series...
- Is full of Mormon ideology and theology if you know what to look for (I'm exmo, left as a teenager, so I spotted a lot of Mormon influence) - just FYI.
- Glorifies and romanticizes controlling behavior, toxic relationships, stalking, domestic abuse, physical abuse, and SA.
- Depicts women as deprived of full personhood, intelligence, independence, and agency
- Presents various pedophilia-esque relationships in a positive light
- Diminishes the severe problems absent/wishy washy/not properly supportive parents (particularly fathers) cause in their children
- Diminishes the impact of power imbalances on consent in relationships
- Fully inappropriately and very inaccurately appropriates the culture, history, and beliefs of real people who are part of the Native American Quileute Tribe, which is a real tribe (something no white person, and especially a mormon white person, has any right to ever do; if you don't know anything about the history, look up the Mountain Meadows Massacre and Brigham Young's treatment of the Native Americans)
I rated this book 0.25 stars for these reasons, as well as the multitude of writing, character, and plot issues present. There are far better books out there with far better messaging and far better writing too. I would definitely pass up all of Meyer's writing, including "the Host," which is better overall in terms of the above issues but still has a lot of problems with it, particularly when it comes to consent.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Pedophilia, Physical abuse, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Toxic relationship, Stalking, Cultural appropriation, Gaslighting, and Sexual harassment
Moderate: Ableism, Bullying, Misogyny, Racism, Sexism, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Religious bigotry, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Animal death, Death, Gore, Mental illness, Vomit, Kidnapping, Car accident, Suicide attempt, Murder, Toxic friendship, Abandonment, and Classism
DISCLAIMER: This is a mormon-y series written by a mormon author, and thus it's rather tame in most regards. (Too much so in many ways honestly.) In a way though, that tame-ness makes Twilight even worse, because the harmful messaging (where abuse and SA and stalking are seen as not just acceptable, but actually romantic) can be very subtle at times. Teenagers who read this will often be taking it in subconsciously rather than recognizing and challenging this messaging. That is why I put what I did as trigger warnings. It's not necessarily graphically described, but it is certainly "graphic" in it's romanticization of very alarming and even fully abusive behaviors, from the male characters and the overall narrative in particular.snowiceblackfruit77's review
dark
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Body horror, Emotional abuse, Gore, Physical abuse, Torture, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Stalking, Car accident, Murder, Gaslighting, Abandonment, and Injury/Injury detail
paigeinabook's review
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Minor: Addiction, Adult/minor relationship, Animal cruelty, Body shaming, Cursing, Emotional abuse, Gore, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Sexism, Sexual content, Torture, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Cannibalism, Stalking, Car accident, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Gaslighting, Colonisation, Injury/Injury detail, and Classism
pbraue13's review
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Guys, it's Twilight. I started my reread because my job provides me with free audiobooks and I needed some background noise for my heavy work periods. If you don't know what this series is about by now let me reiterate: Bella Swan the most accident prone (seriously girl with your balance problems go see a doctor! You probably have an iron deficiency!) and most sought after new girl in literary history meets Edward Cullen. Pale, gaslighting, and piercing eyes - Edward is obviously...a toxic relationship waiting to happen. Just kidding (not really), he's a vampire. After a few weeks/months of knowing him (honestly who knows?) she believes she is "unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him" to the point where even her life literally constantly being at steak is a turn on. She wears khaki skirts to turn him on (did y'all know the author was Mormon? This clothing choice says it all) even contemplates putting herself in danger purposely so she can keep Edward close (Edward the guy who, when he isn't gaslighting her, is constantly reminding her "I COULD KILL YOU IF I WANTED RIGHT NOW I AM SO MUCH STRONGER THAN YOU!"... nice guy, right?). Honestly, both are so dumb and toxic, they kind of deserve one another.
But I feel bad making this whole review bashing the book and its characters, so here are some positives. Stephenie Meyer is great at atmosphere, her sense of humor between characters is well done and got a chuckle out of me at points, and her unique portrayal of vampires is one I must say I enjoy. I also enjoyed the backstories for each of the members of the Cullen family we are given (Alice's especially due to it being covered in vagueness and mystery). I also will say I loved the vampire/supernatural YA boom this book cause so I am thankful for that. Otherwise, this gives me an excuse to listen to the killer movie soundtracks again.
2.5/5 stars (the .5 for the khaki skirt)
But I feel bad making this whole review bashing the book and its characters, so here are some positives. Stephenie Meyer is great at atmosphere, her sense of humor between characters is well done and got a chuckle out of me at points, and her unique portrayal of vampires is one I must say I enjoy. I also enjoyed the backstories for each of the members of the Cullen family we are given (Alice's especially due to it being covered in vagueness and mystery). I also will say I loved the vampire/supernatural YA boom this book cause so I am thankful for that. Otherwise, this gives me an excuse to listen to the killer movie soundtracks again.
2.5/5 stars (the .5 for the khaki skirt)
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Emotional abuse, Toxic relationship, Violence, Stalking, Murder, and Gaslighting
stindex's review against another edition
adventurous
lighthearted
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Misogyny, Sexism, Toxic relationship, Blood, Stalking, Gaslighting, and Sexual harassment
Moderate: Body horror, Death, Emotional abuse, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, Medical content, Toxic friendship, Abandonment, and Injury/Injury detail
orionmerlin's review
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.75
Characters – 5/10
The characters were somewhat memorable, particularly Edward Cullen and Bella Swan, but they lacked depth and complexity. Bella often felt one-dimensional, with her personality revolving primarily around Edward, making it difficult to connect with her beyond her romantic obsession. Edward had an air of mystery, which added intrigue, but his brooding demeanor sometimes felt repetitive rather than layered. The secondary characters, such as Alice and Jacob, provided some much-needed personality and energy to the narrative, but they were underutilized. Their potential was overshadowed by the central romance, leaving them feeling more like plot devices than fully realized individuals.
The characters were somewhat memorable, particularly Edward Cullen and Bella Swan, but they lacked depth and complexity. Bella often felt one-dimensional, with her personality revolving primarily around Edward, making it difficult to connect with her beyond her romantic obsession. Edward had an air of mystery, which added intrigue, but his brooding demeanor sometimes felt repetitive rather than layered. The secondary characters, such as Alice and Jacob, provided some much-needed personality and energy to the narrative, but they were underutilized. Their potential was overshadowed by the central romance, leaving them feeling more like plot devices than fully realized individuals.
Atmosphere/Setting – 7/10
The setting of Forks, Washington, was well-crafted and immersive. The constant rain, misty woods, and small-town isolation created an eerie, melancholic atmosphere that complemented the novel's brooding tone. Meyer effectively conveyed a sense of place, making the supernatural elements feel more plausible within the gloomy environment. The descriptions of Edward’s world—his home, the school, and the vampire lifestyle—were vivid enough to pull me in, though not always deeply explored. While the atmosphere added to the mood, it sometimes leaned too heavily on the same themes, making it feel repetitive rather than continually evolving.
The setting of Forks, Washington, was well-crafted and immersive. The constant rain, misty woods, and small-town isolation created an eerie, melancholic atmosphere that complemented the novel's brooding tone. Meyer effectively conveyed a sense of place, making the supernatural elements feel more plausible within the gloomy environment. The descriptions of Edward’s world—his home, the school, and the vampire lifestyle—were vivid enough to pull me in, though not always deeply explored. While the atmosphere added to the mood, it sometimes leaned too heavily on the same themes, making it feel repetitive rather than continually evolving.
Writing Style – 5/10
The writing style was simple and easy to follow, which made for a fast read, but it lacked polish and refinement. The prose was often overly indulgent in describing Edward’s physical perfection, making it feel excessive and redundant. The balance between dialogue and narration was fair, though some of the inner monologues dragged on unnecessarily. While the book's conversational tone was accessible, it lacked the lyrical beauty or distinct voice that would make it stand out stylistically. The writing served its purpose but didn’t elevate the story beyond its basic premise.
The writing style was simple and easy to follow, which made for a fast read, but it lacked polish and refinement. The prose was often overly indulgent in describing Edward’s physical perfection, making it feel excessive and redundant. The balance between dialogue and narration was fair, though some of the inner monologues dragged on unnecessarily. While the book's conversational tone was accessible, it lacked the lyrical beauty or distinct voice that would make it stand out stylistically. The writing served its purpose but didn’t elevate the story beyond its basic premise.
Plot – 6/10
The plot followed a predictable structure, centering on the romance between Bella and Edward, with a late introduction of external conflict. While their relationship had moments of intensity, the overall pacing felt uneven. The first half of the book was slow, filled with repetitive interactions that didn’t always move the story forward, while the last portion introduced a sudden burst of action with James, the antagonist. The shift in tone was jarring, and the climax felt rushed in comparison to the drawn-out buildup of Bella and Edward’s relationship. Despite this, the story’s central mystery—Edward’s true nature—kept me engaged enough to continue reading.
The plot followed a predictable structure, centering on the romance between Bella and Edward, with a late introduction of external conflict. While their relationship had moments of intensity, the overall pacing felt uneven. The first half of the book was slow, filled with repetitive interactions that didn’t always move the story forward, while the last portion introduced a sudden burst of action with James, the antagonist. The shift in tone was jarring, and the climax felt rushed in comparison to the drawn-out buildup of Bella and Edward’s relationship. Despite this, the story’s central mystery—Edward’s true nature—kept me engaged enough to continue reading.
Intrigue – 7/10
The book had an undeniable addictive quality. Even when aspects of the story felt frustrating or repetitive, I still wanted to know what would happen next. The tension between Bella and Edward, though sometimes overdramatic, was compelling enough to drive the narrative forward. The mystery surrounding the Cullens added intrigue, and the supernatural elements were engaging, though not groundbreaking. The book’s ability to sustain interest despite its flaws speaks to its ability to hook readers, even if the payoff wasn’t always satisfying.
The book had an undeniable addictive quality. Even when aspects of the story felt frustrating or repetitive, I still wanted to know what would happen next. The tension between Bella and Edward, though sometimes overdramatic, was compelling enough to drive the narrative forward. The mystery surrounding the Cullens added intrigue, and the supernatural elements were engaging, though not groundbreaking. The book’s ability to sustain interest despite its flaws speaks to its ability to hook readers, even if the payoff wasn’t always satisfying.
Logic/Relationships – 4/10
The logic of the world and relationships often felt inconsistent. Edward’s behavior—stalking, mood swings, and controlling tendencies—was romanticized rather than critically examined, making the relationship problematic at times. Bella’s unquestioning devotion to Edward lacked depth, and her willingness to abandon everything for him felt unrealistic given how little development their relationship had outside of physical attraction. The supernatural elements, while interesting, weren’t always explained clearly, leading to moments where the world-building felt flimsy. The dynamics between other characters, such as Bella and her father, Charlie, were more grounded and added some authenticity, but they were underdeveloped compared to the romance.
The logic of the world and relationships often felt inconsistent. Edward’s behavior—stalking, mood swings, and controlling tendencies—was romanticized rather than critically examined, making the relationship problematic at times. Bella’s unquestioning devotion to Edward lacked depth, and her willingness to abandon everything for him felt unrealistic given how little development their relationship had outside of physical attraction. The supernatural elements, while interesting, weren’t always explained clearly, leading to moments where the world-building felt flimsy. The dynamics between other characters, such as Bella and her father, Charlie, were more grounded and added some authenticity, but they were underdeveloped compared to the romance.
Enjoyment – 6/10
Despite its flaws, I found the book entertaining in a guilty-pleasure kind of way. It had a certain charm that made it easy to get lost in, even when aspects of the story were frustrating. The romance, while problematic in some ways, had enough tension and emotion to keep me invested. While I wouldn’t call it a masterpiece, I understand why it resonated with so many. It’s an easy, escapist read that delivers on its central appeal—an intense, all-consuming love story. I wouldn’t wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone, but for those who enjoy melodramatic romance with a supernatural twist, it delivers exactly that.
Despite its flaws, I found the book entertaining in a guilty-pleasure kind of way. It had a certain charm that made it easy to get lost in, even when aspects of the story were frustrating. The romance, while problematic in some ways, had enough tension and emotion to keep me invested. While I wouldn’t call it a masterpiece, I understand why it resonated with so many. It’s an easy, escapist read that delivers on its central appeal—an intense, all-consuming love story. I wouldn’t wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone, but for those who enjoy melodramatic romance with a supernatural twist, it delivers exactly that.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Stalking, and Car accident
Minor: Body shaming, Cursing, Emotional abuse, Panic attacks/disorders, Sexism, Murder, Abandonment, Alcohol, and Injury/Injury detail
The book heavily romanticizes an obsessive and sometimes controlling relationship dynamic, which could be concerning for some readers. While the violence is not overly graphic, there are scenes involving predatory vampires, stalking, and a life-threatening confrontation. Additionally, the protagonist frequently exhibits self-destructive tendencies in her pursuit of love. The story also contains some outdated gender dynamics and moments of subtle body shaming.