The Host by Stephenie Meyer

Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. The earth has been invaded by a species that take over the minds of their human hosts while leaving their bodies intact, and most of humanity has succumbed. Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, knew about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the too vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of the man Melanie loves -- Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer yearns for a man she's never met. As outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off to search for the man they both love. Featuring what may be the first love triangle involving only two bodies, The Host is a riveting and unforgettable novel that will bring a vast new readership to one of the most compelling writers of our time.

MY THOUGHTS

Now I know you’re thinking “wtf is this? I’m a romance fan, not sci-fi!” and I can sympathize. I debated over reading it until the decision was made for me and the book gifted to me. So, I ventured in, and I have to admit the first 10 chapters or so are really (seriously) slow, because it’s all world building. I decided to keep trudging through though. Best. Decision. Ever.

We start off with Wanderer being inserted and finding out Melanie remains a consciousness with her in her head. Wanderer struggles with this predicament as Melanie works her hardest to protect her memories and loved ones left behind. However, as time goes on, Wanderer learns about Melanie and her life as her walls start slipping, resulting in an uncomfortable alliance. This is where all the fun begins.

I can’t really tell you more because you should find out for yourself, but I will say that while I would have liked to see Wanderer fight a little harder when shit got critical, the author stayed true to her character which I really appreciate. Wanderer learns what it really means to be human, and Melanie learns that the souls may not all deserve to be hated and feared. This story contains the unconditional love of family, friendship, and a very complicated love triangle. It also contains some really neat ideas of other alien worlds.

Overall it’s a very fascinating and moving book and I encourage any romance reader to give it a chance. It’s a slow, but very thoughtful and sweet love story with really only a touch of sci-fi.

*AUDIOBOOK: Kate Reading did the characters justice and I felt immersed in the story, making for a pretty good audiobook.