Fallen

by Lauren Kate Random House, 448 pages, $32.99.

REVIEWED BY MARY-ANNE BAKER

Last updated 10:37 03/03/2010

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Fallen appears closely modelled on a recent series of popular vampire books, although rather than vampires, this time the story hangs on the idea of fallen angels.

Lucinda has been sent to a reform school for troubled youth. The school atmosphere is sketchily painted as sombre and restrictive, but the adult presence is vague and control almost non-existent. She meets the gorgeous Daniel, who at first appears to detest her, but she feels inexplicably drawn to him. The equally good-looking Cam is also attracted to her and she wavers unconvincingly between them. To be honest, all the yearning and unrequited love gets downright tedious.

Fallen lacks any real plot and the story meanders without direction or purpose before ending somewhat precipitously with a promise of sequels. Full of one-dimensional characters and with a very flimsy plot, this book really disappointed. Having said all that, I know the almost gothic atmosphere, darkly romantic theme and undemanding prose will appeal to teen readers looking for something to read after Twilight.