I've never read any of Meg Cabot's oeuvre until now, so my first exposure was very amusing. I'm impressed how this author developed an authentic voice that reflected the hierarchical social difficulties in school. Her presentation was a genuine perspective of teenager realities.

Although clearly aimed at the Tween-mid YA audience, I admired the vibe she put forth, not ascribing childishness or boring on about what the adults thought. The main character, Susannah (Suze), was a sharp, snappy protagonist and Cabot's dialogue struck me as genuinely "16 years old with an Attitude". Perfectly nuanced, though I found the 'fist in the face' a tad unrealistic. That type of slugfest can hurt one's fist (not to mention the victim) considerably more than portrayed, as does the event of having a breezeway falling on you.

Despite these niggles, the interplay within the classroom and Suze's step-brothers resonates with the situations in today's Middle school as much as high school, so kudos for painting a realistic picture. The paranormal aspect was well done and very intriguing with the way those scenes slipped into the narrative. Highly recommended for teens coping with new schools, social hassles and who are open to some paranormal episodes. A good type of story similar to Zilpha Keaetly Snyder's Stanley family series. ( )

Love the main character - the girl has no mercy. Made me laugh a lot! ( )

i thought it was a good book ( )

This was the series that got me interested in fantasy/paranormal w/ romance. I read this as a teen, and still to this day the storylines are memorable, as are the characters.
Meg Cabot was the queen of slow burn with Jesse. He'll forever be my teen book boyfriend!
Can't wait until my daughters are able to be introduced to this amazing author, and this fabulous series of books!!! ( )

I loved this series as a teenager and still have an appreciation for it as an adult but it is very clear I am no longer in the target audience. It's a fun read and I've got some nostalgic feelings for it but tbh if I read this for the first time now at 30 I would probably hate it. ( )