Book Review: Invisibility by Andrea Cremer & David Levithan

Invisibility
Authors: Andrea Cremer & David Levithan
Reading Level: YA
Genre: Paranormal/Supernatural/Romance
Release Date: May 7th 2013
Review Source: Philomel
Available: Amazon

Summary: (from goodreads) Stephen has been invisible for practically his whole life — because of a curse his grandfather, a powerful cursecaster, bestowed on Stephen’s mother before Stephen was born. So when Elizabeth moves to Stephen’s NYC apartment building from Minnesota, no one is more surprised than he is that she can see him. A budding romance ensues, and when Stephen confides in Elizabeth about his predicament, the two of them decide to dive headfirst into the secret world of cursecasters and spellseekers to figure out a way to break the curse. But things don’t go as planned, especially when Stephen’s grandfather arrives in town, taking his anger out on everyone he sees. In the end, Elizabeth and Stephen must decide how big of a sacrifice they’re willing to make for Stephen to become visible — because the answer could mean the difference between life and death. At least for Elizabeth.

First off I want to mention that when I first saw the cover of this book, I was captured by it. The colors are so vibrant and just call out to you when you stare at it. Then when you look at the girl and guy and see that he is partially invisible, you just know you have to read this book. Of course having two big authors behind the story will also grab your attention. I am a long time fan of Andrea Cremer's books but had never read anything by David Levithan, I did know of his books but just never got around to reading any. So reading Invisibility killed 2 birds with one stone. I was immersed in Andrea writing style again and introduced to David's.

I am a bit sad that I have to state I didn't love Invisibility as much as I thought I would. Invisibility was good enough just missing some pizazz for me. It was interesting in the beginning to learn of Stephen and his curse. Elizabeth's character just didn't help Stephen flow throughout the book though. In the middle of the novel is were I started to push through some scenes. I just never felt a connection between Stephen and Elizabeth. The idea or concept of the story was what kept me going, if the characters would have gelled better for me, I would be giving this story a higher rating. You got an invisible boy, a newbie Cursecaster and New York City all wrapped up in these pages. Like I said the concept was great. Delivery not as great. The end of Invisibility did pick up and might even feel rushed to some but I like how it ended.

If you looking for a story about curses and a hidden magical world then Invisibility will please you. If your looking for a romance, you might want to know its not the emphasis in this book. The magic takes priority over the romance. There are moments in the novel that do deserve a 5 star rating though but those are few and far in-between. Recommended to paranormal fans and even contemporary lovers.