Sweet Reckoning

April 1, 2014

Gr 9 Up-This third and final book in Higgins's "Sweet" trilogy finds Anna Whitt, daughter of an angel and Belial, the Duke of Substance Abuse, preparing to fulfill her destiny of ridding the world of demons and releasing herself and her fellow Nephilim from performing their various sinful obligations. Armed with a team of supporters, both Neph and human, as well as the love of Kaiden Rowe, son of the Duke of Lust, Anna's adventures take her on the road, ultimately winding up at the annual summit of Dukes in Sin City itself, Las Vegas. The journey forces Anna to face and overcome her various urges, ultimately marrying Kaiden in a mile-high ceremony on a private plane and subsequently consummating their union (repeatedly, as it seems that every glance between the two of them is a smoldering one), as well as guzzling the contents of a hotel mini-bar in order to confuse Kaiden's father, Pharzuph, when he comes to test their "bond" (apparently, it is harder for a demon to detect when one party is drunk). The Christian message of good winning over evil and God's victory over the devil is more heavy hitting in this book than in the others, at times verging on cliche (when all else is failing in her final battle against the Dukes, Anna reverts to prayer to help confirm her victory); however, it is ultimately an appealing paranormal romance that will appeal to both secular and religious audiences alike.-Joanna Sondheim, Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School, New York City

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 15, 2014
Grades 10-1 In this Sweet Evil trilogy finale, Anna Whitthalf guardian angel, half fallen angelis preparing for college, and her relationship with Kaidan continues to deepen. Meanwhile, her ongoing mission to free earth of demons and their dark influence gains urgency as the demon Dukes intensify efforts to stop Anna from fulfilling a prophecy portending their demise. All comes to a head in Las Vegas, where Anna, now-husband Kaidan, and their Nephilim allies confront the Dukes and their minions. A brutal battle for their soulsand humanity'sbrings difficult dilemmas, loss, and sorrows but also a hopeful future. Featuring a mainly young adult cast, a contemporary setting, and an intricate mythology, this is a hefty but engrossing genre read, enhanced by Anna's first-person narrative, which incorporates suspenseful, light, and introspective touches. There are edgy elementsincluding some gruesome violence and Anna and Kai's sultry romantic interludes. However, ultimately, this features a strong Christian message of redemption and the power of faith and prayer. A series conclusion that will satisfy.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)