Eclipse (The Twilight Saga, Book 3) Review

I was a late starter with the Twilight book series, but I quickly became an instant fan.  I flew through the first book, Twilight, falling in love with the story and the characters involved.  I eagerly read the second book, New Moon, only to become disappointed with it's slow pace and lack of passion.  So, it was with hesitation that I began the third book, Eclipse. 

Eclipse far exceeds New Moon, because it was filled with action, passion, and an interesting love traingle develops.  New Moon was more violent than any of the other books in the Twilight series, but the violence doesn't really appear till the end of the book.  Stephanie Meyers, author of the Twilight books, maintains her well written format, avoiding foul language, sex scenes, or anything inappropriate.  I commend her for her ability to write such a fascinating story, while staying away from vulgarity.  That is rare in these days!

Now, why am I beginning to dislike Bella?  Mainly, because she has the kind of man every woman wants (except for that little vampire issue) and she just stomps all over it.  Even though I know it's a fictional book, I would read it and become FURIOUS with Bella.  At times, I would throw the book down and walk away.  (since when are books allowed to play with my emotions?  just an example of how well it's written)  Bella continues to be indecisive, increasingly weak and over-emotional, and sometimes just pathetic.  Even still....I'm hooked on learning more about her.

In New Moon, Jacob's character was much more prevaliant, and his character is even more involved in Eclipse.  We just want Jacob to go away!  He reminds me of every pushy teenage boy I ever knew, and refuses to take NO for an answer.  I was really tired of him, and ready for his character to take a back seat, which it never did.

There is a lot of history laid out in this book.  Pay attention to it.  The legends of the werewolves, and their ancestors does get a bit boring, but it all ties in with the story, so don't skip over it. 

One of the most interesting parts of the book, for me, was when we learn how Jasper became a vampire and the story of his beginning existence.  This information was VERY intriguing, and had me on the edge of my seat.  It is also crucial to Bella, as her main goal throughout the book is to get the Cullen's to turn her into a vampire.

Although I really did enjoy Eclipse, I do think that I'm ready for the story to progress some.  The same battles are going on between Bella & Edward.  Arguments over her becoming immortal, over his unwillingness to be intimate with her, etc.....those stories are just old and it would be nice to move on. 

Of course, I recommend Eclipse.  YOU MUST READ THE TWILIGHT BOOKS IN ORDER, so don't just skip to this one.  (the first is the best anyway)