Review: Sinner by Maggie Stiefvater

Sinner

(The Wolves of Mercy Falls #3.5)

By: Maggie Stiefvater

Pub. Date: July 1, 2014

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Pages: 368

Source: Netgalley

A standalone companion book to the internationally bestselling Shiver Trilogy.

Sinner follows Cole St. Clair, a pivotal character from the #1 New York Times bestselling Shiver Trilogy. Everybody thinks they know Cole's story. Stardom. Addiction. Downfall. Disappearance. But only a few people know Cole's darkest secret -- his ability to shift into a wolf. One of these people is Isabel. At one point, they may have even loved each other. But that feels like a lifetime ago. Now Cole is back. Back in the spotlight. Back in the danger zone. Back in Isabel's life. Can this sinner be saved?

 I received this galley from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

The Wolves of Mercy Falls is one of my favorite series, and Cole was one of my favorite characters. I was so intrigued by him! I practically squealed when I found out Stiefvater was writing a standalone novel from his point of view. I really wanted to know what happened to him after Forever. I definitely was not disappointed! Cole and Isabel's story was fantastic!

I love how much of a hot mess Cole is. Before coming to Mercy Falls he was a drug and alcohol addicted rock star, who also happens to be a genius. After saving Grace from the wolf sickness, Cole heads back to LA to make a new album and to rekindle his relationship with Isabel. Both Cole and Isabel are messed up people, but who love so fiercely and are so loyal. They really are absolutely perfect for each other.

I was glad to learn that the story was also told in the POV of Isabel. She was someone who I didn't really like at first, but through the series, I ended up loving her. She doesn't trust easily and Cole is the perfect guy to help her open up. I love how strong willed Isabel is and I loved watching Cole break down her defenses.

I've always said how talented Stiefvater is and what an incredible writer she is. The same holds true for Sinner. She just has this amazing way for words and Cole and Isabel's story was written beautifully. I couldn't put their story down and I am so happy I now know how their story ends.

While Sinner is technically a stand alone novel to The Wolves of Mercy Falls series, I recommend reading the first three books (Shiver, Linger, Forever) before diving into Sinner. I think it's more beneficial to know more of Cole and Isabel's story beforehand.