Although I enjoy nearly everything I read, it's been a long time since I've come across a book that's filled me with so much excitement. "The Taker" was the perfect blend of historical elements mixed with the supernatural. The characters were all so complex, a book could be written about each of their lives individually and the story would remain just as captivating. This tale was beautifully albeit boldly written; all of the settings vividly painted, all of the characters dark in their own way. Ended just as it should have, but definitely left me wanting more! Katsu has created an excellent foundation for what will surely be a successful and beloved series. I'll be (impatiently) waiting on the release of "The Reckoning." :)

I found the beginning of the story did not draw my interest the way the author wants it to, and i kept asking myself why the main protagonist was so keen to hear it. Good use of present and past tenses to switch between the multiple stories being told. The story ends abruptly though, so I am under the impression we'll see a sequel. Otherwise, I am agrieved and want what I know should be at least a couple more chapters and I will knock this rating down to three stars i still feel like I am missing the bigger picture.

LOVE THIS! REVIEW TO COME!

This book was ok. For the most part I was bored. Lanny tells her story in past tense, while the present-day portions are told in present tense, which was an irritating back and forth. There was a point when Lanny tells Adair's story which I found to be the only really compelling part of the story. At least, it was the only part that held my interest. I wasn't all that thrilled with the ending, and, frankly, the "present day" part just seemed like an unnecessary vehicle for Lanny to tell her story. Not all that impressed.

Horrible garbage. A complete disappointment.

http://wordnerdy.blogspot.com/2011/10/2011-book-263.html

What a saga! I loved every minute of this story and I highly recommend that it be listened too. Ms. Katsu's words are so gorgeously written, they beg to be heard.

This is a meandering tale of a young woman forced to live with the consequences of her choices. It's a tale of love and desire, of loneliness and despair, of selfishness and indulgence, and of indifference and cruelty.

It's as brutal as it is emotional. There are no heroes here. Just a cautionary tale of a life not well lived.

This is not a book for everyone. In fact, its one that many will hate. I found it intriguing and was lost in the authors writing. The story, as sad and brutal as it was, I found very satisfying.

I couldn't put this book down. It was absolutely stunning and surpassed any and all of my expectations.

My favourite part about this entire novel is the narrative voice. I think Alma Katsu could write 300 pages about watching paint dry and it would still mesmerize me. The story line alone was fantastic, but when told the way it was, it easily took The Taker to the top of my recommendation list.

Narrative aside, I did love the plot as well. The cover copy gives you an inclination of what the story could be about, but I was still absolutely surprised ever time I turned the page. I finished the book satisfied, but I still want more at the same time! I want to see where the story goes and how the characters develop.

I would highly recommend The Taker to anyone. But I would suggest having a solid chunk of time set aside to read it, as it's very unlikely you will be able to put it down.