Bk 2) (A Watersong Novel), Lullaby (Watersong

Come-on. Either finish it & write a complete book, not just a few chapters for the middle of this story to lead us on. After the first book, which I liked, and the start of this, which followed, the author cut to a short ending (to push up sales for the finale??)(or I hope the next one is the finale). When I finished, I felt like I paid my money and someone had ripped off the last half of the book (I guess to keep the sales coming). But I'm so ticked off at her now, I'm not sure I want to buy any more (chapters) to this story or any of her other books.

In fairness, what was there was good.. but what happened, did she get writers block with a deadline looming, & just say screw-it, I'll send in what's there, take some time off and finish it someday later...

LULLABY is the second instalment (November 27 2012 release) in Amanda Hocking’s Watersong series. Amanda’s latest venture into the world of fantasy follows Gemma Fisher as she is forced into the role of a siren.

Some background: In Greek mythology, the sirens were 3 sea nymphs, who were part bird/part human/part mermaid. According to myth, Demeter, the goddess of harvest and fertility condemned the 3 sisters (daughters of the river god Achelous) when they failed to save Demeter’s daughter Persephone from Hades. With their beautiful voices, the sirens would lure sailors and men to their death. Amanda has added the extra feature that in order to survive, they would have to kill and eat the heart of a man 4 times per year.

LULLABY continues the storyline at exactly the same spot where WAKE ended. 16 year old Gemma is missing and presumably under the spell of the beautiful sirens. Her boyfriend Alex, along with her sister Harper, has been frantically searching through Greek mythology books looking for anyway to help break the siren’s spell over Gemma. And the deeper they look, the more it seems that freeing Gemma may be next to impossible. Along with Harper’s soon-to-be boyfriend Daniel, the trio pledge to find Gemma and return her home safely.

Meanwhile, Daniel’s feelings for Harper continue to grow but Harper isn’t sure if she is ready for a relationship. Since her mother’s accident, Harper has taken over as both mother and big sister, and she is reluctant to let her feelings for Daniel compromise her search for Gemma. It is only when Daniel points out that he has been the one to effectively save and locate Gemma on the prior occasions that Harper begins to realize that perhaps there is room for someone else in her life. I was able to connect with Harper and Daniel, and perhaps that made the storyline a little more enjoyable. I still wasn’t pleased with the push-me/pull-you affect of Harper’s feelings for Daniel, but like many storylines, there is always some friction between many of the couples.

Gemma is reluctant to return. She knows that the sirens will come looking for her, as they fear that a lengthy separation will mean death to all. With that in mind, Alex continues to profess his love for Gemma, which once again, goes against the mythology that a siren can never be truly loved. Hoping to prove the myth wrong, Gemma makes a bargain with the sirens and it is her fear for Alex that will force Gemma to make a heart breaking decision and let Alex go.

Amanda Hocking is not afraid to write storylines involving death, mutilation or violence. LULLABY (like WAKE) contains some violence and death as it pertains to the sirens need to feed, but there is also some (in my opinion) gratuitous violence. The sister’s callous regard for human life is frightening and when they kill it is without a second thought. Even someone close is never safe from the wrath of an angry siren.

There was more emphasis on Gemma’s family and Greek mythology in LULLABY. Most of the storyline focuses on the search and rescue, including the revelation of Gemma’s connection to mythical characters. Gemma’s fight against the compulsion to feed keeps her humanity intact, but even Gemma will slip up when hunger overcomes all rational thinking.

LULLABY is a quick and easy read, with an interesting look at the sirens and fabled stories from long ago. I enjoyed LULLABY more than WAKE but perhaps it was because there was more focus on the search and rescue, than that of the sirens who sat around looking for their next victim. If you are a fan of Amanda Hocking you will enjoy LULLABY and the Watersong series.

Lullaby, the second installment in the Watersong series by Amanda Hocking, kicks off with Harper trying to find her sister. After trying to convince her father that Gemma would not be coming back for a while, she decided to go into search-mode with the help of her best friend Alex, who also happens to be Gemma's boyfriend. While doing research, they decide that Gemma must be a siren because they have been said to be both fish and birds.

Meanwhile, Gemma is stuck being with the sirens as a siren. She didn't ask for it and she's definitely not going to enjoy it, even if it has to kill her. The thing that she mostly doesn't want to do is eat a boy's heart, like sirens have to do in order to survive. Gemma doesn't want to kill any innocent people because it just wouldn't be right. She also doesn't want to let her family down even though Harper is the only one that knows she is some kind of mermaid. As she begins to get sicker, Thea tells her that she should at least give in and swim, because that would put off her time to eat until later. She decides to listen.

As the story goes on, Gemma must learn to live as a siren while Harper, Alex, and Daniel get more evidence of where Gemma is. They might even find her.

Characters:

Gemma, the new siren, is willing to stick up for whatever she believes. She will do whatever it takes to not be a siren. She doesn't exactly want to kill herself anymore though, because she couldn't do that to her family. Gemma also has to learn how to give in to siren's urges, as she doesn't always act exactly like herself anymore.

Harper really started to grow on me in this book. I wasn't exactly the biggest fan of her in the first book, though I'm not exactly sure why. I thought that she was a very nice big sister to be trying to help Gemma. I also thought that it was nice that she kept trying to convince her dad that Gemma was alright and she would probably come home. She blames Gemma's leaving on a teenage rebellion.

Alex was one of my favorite characters, as always. He was the one who actually decided that Gemma was a siren. Since he's kinda nerdy, that probably helped a lot. I felt kind of bad for him because he didn't really get to see Gemma for a really long time and he finally started dating someone that he had liked for a while.
Poor Alex.

Daniel would be a great boyfriend for Harper. I think that he'd really help her loosen up a bit. He's pretty much a go-with-the-flow kinda guy and he's really laid back. If something is wrong, he will immediately drop everything and come to you.

Penn was super annoying, though not as annoying as I think Lexi was. Even though she is practically the youngest, she thinks that she is in control of the group. And since she thinks it, it is pretty much true. She dictates what she wants everyone to do and everyone always listens.

Lexi wanted whatever Penn had. If Penn had Sawyer, then Lexi wanted Sawyer. I bet that Lexi even wanted to be in charge of the group!
Thea is probably my favorite original siren. She seems to be the most helpful. Though Gemma doesn't always like everything that she has to say, at least she is telling it like it is. She always gives her best advice because she has been in some of the same situations as Gemma.

I think that this book wasn't as good as the first, but it was still really interesting. My favorite thing about this book would probably have to be that we learn so much more about sirens in this book. I really love mythology, so I love learning about them. I enjoyed this book and I can't wait for Tidal! I'm really starting to like Amanda Hocking's writing, so I may have to check out her Trylle books.

Gemma is gone, leaving Harper at home trying to pick up the pieces that were left behind. There father is totally heart broken and is beginning to stumble through his days in a haze as to why? Why would Gemma just leave when everything was going so well for her? It's just not like her to up and leave without saying goodbye, something bad must have happened to make her do something like that.
Alex (Gemma's boyfriend) is doing everything he can to find Gemma. After the battle (in Wake by Amanda Hocking) Alex was left unconscious so he wasn't able to see Gemma off. Alex doesn't know what happened, but Harper (Gemma's sister) does.
Gemma never wanted to leave her home, but she was left without a choice. Gemma was told to leave or risk watching everyone she loves die by the hand of Penn. That night constantly plays out in Gemma's mind like a recording. What could she have done? Gemma doesn't know enough about Penn, Thea, and Lexi to fight them let alone kill them. She had to leave and now just making it through the night is a struggle with the watersong getting stronger each day sleep is nonexistent. Gemma knows that a swim in the ocean would make her feel so much better but she just can't see herself enjoying the curse that has caused everyone so much pain.
The three sisters go about their lives like nothing has happened. Gemma eventually becomes close to Thea and they begin to talk often. Thea assures Gemma that it does get easier and the victims can be chosen. Thea doesn't like having to feed on humans either but when you have to to live then you aren't left with much of a choice. Thea confides in Gemma and says that she likes to feed on the guilty rather than the innocent. Even if the human hurts others Gemma just doesn't feel like it's her place to play God with the lives of others guilty or not. Gemma not allowing herself to feed is taking a tole on her body and she is slowly losing control of herself, eventually she will have to feed.
Daniel can't believe what he witnessed the night of the battle, was it a Demon or an animal? It looked like an animal but it sounded like Penn. He didn't know what to do but he knew at the time that he had to protect Harper, he still has to protect Harper but now all he can do i keep his eyes open. Daniel begins to seek out Harper in the hopes of making her smile eve though with her sister gone times are hard. No matter how hard Harper tries she is falling for Daniel and he is falling for her. Then Daniel had to hunch that he should pick up a paper, while looking through it he finds some clues. While putting the pieces together he finally realizes that he knows where Gemma has been hiding...

My Thoughts: I loved this book even better than the first one! I liked how the book picked right up from where the first one stopped and I also love the romance between Harper and Daniel. I also felt that you get more a feel of the other characters in this book were as the first one was mostly just Gemma and Harper. Also I like the fact that there was a bit of mythology tied with story which involved the Gods and Goddesses. Also and this is very IMPORTANT make sure to read the short story Forgotten Lyrics by Amanda Hocking because it has key points that go along with the Watersong series.

My Favorite Quote from the book:
"I never stopped believing in you when we were little, and I'll never stop fighting for you now"

Gemma has abandoned her family to run off with sirens Penn, Lexie, and Thea in order to keep her family safe and stay alive. She wants nothing to do with them, but doesn't want to put her family in danger. Avowed to punish herself, Gemma refuses to give in to her siren desires and becomes weak and starved. Her deep and strong urges become harder to ignore as she becomes more and more weak. Over time, she changes from the girl she was at home, hard at work and innocent. Harper is frantic to find Gemma and take care of her father. She picks up the pieces Gemma left behind: Alex, her and Gemma's dad, and dealing with the death of a close family friend. If Harper finds her, will Gemma still be the same girl that left? Or has she changed drastically because of the evil nature of the mythological creature she is now?

Wake, the first book in the series, was ok, but it definitely had its flaws. Lullaby is a slight improvement. Gemma is slightly less annoying. The first book had her acting quite childishly and annoying, making me relate to her more mature sister Harper. This installment has her coming to grips with her new state as a siren and trying to abstain from the pleasurable aspects and the more monstrous aspects of siren nature. She pushes the limits of what her body can take to keep her sense of morality, even if her nature tends towards evil. The other sirens are more fleshed out than the last book. Penn views humans as toys to be used and discarded or as food. She is incredibly manipulative, jealous, and vindictive. Lexie proves to be the nicest, extending advice and help to Gemma. I find her the most interesting because despite her evil nature, she manages to still be good, giving some shades of grey to the previously black and white world. Harper is an awesome character, even if she isn't mystical or mythical. She stays home to pick up the pieces Gemma left behind and works relentlessly to find Gemma. The only annoying thing is that she keeps trying to push Daniel away because of what she perceives to be what is right. I'm fairly certain they will end up together, so this predictable back and forth is unnecessary.

I really enjoyed the horror aspects of this book. For a romantic and mythical story, there is a surprising amount of blood and gore. I would have thought this would put the target audience off, but the reception for the first book was pretty positive The stilted conversations that annoyed me in the first novel are much improved here. They flow more naturally and made the book more engaging and made me want to read it. There was one point in the book where the the characters act without thinking about the ramifications and then just sit around doing nothing. Very frustrating, but it was the only glaring flaw in an otherwise enjoyable narrative.

Lullaby is a decided improvement over Wake. I enjoyed the story and the deeper, more complex characters. I am interested to see what happens in the next book, Tidal.

**SPOILERS FOR BOOK ONE**

Lullaby was an equally enjoyable read as book 1 Wake and we pick up where we left off. Gemma has accepted her fate as a siren and has joined Penn, Lexi & Thea as they leave Capri & the murder investigation behind. Gemma doesn’t really want to go but promised the sirens so that they wouldn’t harm Harper, Daniel or her boyfriend Alex. Harper is left behind to explain Gemma’s disappearance to everyone, needless to say, her Dad is devastated and so is their Mother who barely has a grasp on her own life. So, Harper, Alex and Daniel become determined to find Gemma and bring her home….Regardless of the fact that they will be inciting the wrath of a trio of murderous sirens.
So I enjoyed this, both of the girls have been separated so the pov’s are in different areas. Gemma is struggling with her new identity, she’s been forced to be what she is and doesn’t want to become a monster by murdering people to survive, so she tries to deny the way her body feels, starving it of the sea that calls to her and resisting the need to feed. She’s still pretty much in the dark about a lot of things about being a siren but has help from the most unlikely source. Meanwhile, Harper has thrown herself into finding Gemma to bring her home so she doesn’t have to go it alone, she won’t give up & neither will Alex. I like Harper, I like that she is determined and driven, it’s sort of like a swap of traits for the girls in the second book as Harper becomes focussed whilst Gemma loses hope, I like that their connection as sisters is strong and that there is determination not to just sit and accept things. I like where Harper’s relationship with Daniel seems to be heading, she is hard work and I really liked how Daniel is approaching that, he’s is the only one who seems to see that she needs looking after too.
The storyline is a good progression albeit slow, these two books have shown that there is only about 2 reveals per book and they come pretty much at the end. Don’t get me wrong, it was still intriguing; they aren’t boring because we are getting character development in between and discoveries are made just not at the pace I like, it’s a plodder and it shouldn’t take a full book to discover that there may be hope for Gemma. I said in the last books review that you are going to have to be in this for the whole series or you will never get a conclusion and I’m definitely reiterating that. Each book has left me with more questions than answers but it has always left me curious and I think that’s what keeps me reading because they are so easy to read and the characters are very likable, so is the storyline but I just want more action, more often. I will still read the rest of the series because as I said, it really does keep you reading with curiosity , I want to know how ‘love’ is going to affect things, I want to know what’s going on with Nathalie (their mother) and how she will play into this, obviously I want more of the Sirens, do they have to be that way? Have they tried to change things? If there’s hope…. What is it? Hopefully book 3 will enlighten me.

MY REVIEW
My daughter Rachel of Rai29BookReadNReview and I received this gorgeous signed hardback copy of Lullaby. It is the second book in the Watersong series by Amanda Hocking. I really like the cover of this book, which makes even more sense after reading the book. The girl on the cover is Gemma standing on the rocks looking out to sea. Would I pick it up from a shelf in a book store? Yes and to be honest after reading BK#1 in the Watersong Series I would be looking out for this book anyway.
So I finished reading book one, Wake, and as soon as I finished it I immediately picked up Lullaby to start reading it, and I didn't, wouldn't, couldn't put it down until I had finished it.
In this instalment we know what the three dangerous and mysterious girls are. Penn, Thea and Lexi are.....well you need to find out exactly what they are by reading the book. What I can say without revealing spoilers is that Penn is the leader of the evil trio. Gemma has left with them we know from book one. In this book we follow Harper (Gemma's Sister) Alex (Gemma's Boyfriend) and Daniel (Harper's friend/potential boyfriend) as they try to learn more about the mythology involved around the curse that Gemma has got caught up in.
So will Harper, Daniel and Alex find Gemma? And if they find her will she have changed as evil as the three girls she left with? Will Gemma even want to come home with them? Will the terrible trio allow Gemma to return with her family and friends?
Well I could answer all those questions but then that would spoil the book wouldn't it?
This book is captivating, and you certainly do not want to put it down! It's action packed, full of drama and danger. You become so attached to the characters. The book is so well written that you can really understand what Gemma feels, the sacrifices she feels she has to make, the perhaps bad decisions she makes as well as understanding how Harper reacts to what is happening with Gemma too.
Though the girls are sisters, and alike they are also very different in how they approach problematic situations. The two guys in the book, Daniel and Alex are both insanely in love and feel they need to protect the girls as much as they can, even though the girls are as strong minded as they are strong willed.and able to look after themselves.
So did I enjoy this book? Yes, loved it even more than book one. Would I recommend this book? Yes I definitely recommend this series! Would I read more of this series? I really want to read the next and last book as soon as possible! Definitely looking forward to the next in the series. Would I read more books by Amanda Hocking? I will certainly be trying some of her other series out too.

Lullaby is Amanda Hocking's sequel to Wake and as a sequel, let me just say, that it does not disappoint. At the beginning of the story we are brought into scene with Harper and Alex who are still trying to make sense of what they have just witness, for the sake of spoilers, I will just say that this is the last thing to take place at the end of Wake. Harper and Alex are struggling to make sense of what has taken Gemma and if they will ever see her again. Right from page one Hocking drops readers right into the gates of action, as she so generously does, and allows them to see the rollercoaster that they will be riding on for the remainder of the story.

I cannot express how thrilled I was with this sequel. Usually sequels often disappoint me, but this one left me highly anticipating the third book in this series. The story is told in alternating chapters between Gemma and Harper. I really enjoyed this as well. Gemma doesn't come in with her point of view until a few chapters in, giving Harper and Alex enough time to allow readers to know what is taking place next. Harper is such an admirable older sister, but equally so I believe that Gemma is just as admirable and has some redeeming characteristics. They both think they are doing what is best for the other one. I love watching sisters come together as Gemma and Harper do.

The idea of Sirens and Mermaids has always intrigued me and I love reading about them. Sirens are always made out to be harlots or sex idols in the eyes of men, and this is rightly son. That is how they operate after all. Gemma doesn't fit the bill when it comes to being a Siren however. She is only doing what she thinks is best for Alex and Harper. Thea, Penn, and Lexi become important figures in Gemma's life, especially if she wants to stay alive, and I must admit that I really dislike their characters for obvious reasons. Thea I can stand a little more than Lexi and Penn because she at least tries to take Gemma under her wing, but the other two are just vicious. It is enchanting to read about them, however, because of what they are and how they behave. It is a nice switch between Harper's reality and Gemma's mystical life in the sea.

I will not give away anything about this book but I just wanted to throw this out there: I hate the ending! I was so sad and wanted to last out at the characters that were involved in the ending. I will let you know that it has to do with a certain romance between two people, and a romance that I LOVED and wanted to see last! This book packed action, mythical beings, and a great dose of romance all in one punch. I loved it from start to finish and I hope you will too!

***A big thank you to the publishers at St. Martin's Griffin for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***

Lullaby: Amanda Hocking

The bond between sisters is often so great that some can complete the sentences of the other even before the words come out. But, what happens when one sister is captured and her family threatened if she does not go along with her captors? How far will Harper go to find Gemma and return her to her family? How many risks will be taken and how many lives will be in danger? Can you hear the song of the sirens if you do they might wind up dead? But, before all is said and done only one song will be heard.

Gemma has no choice but to go with the sirens and adhere to their way of life. We meet her as she interacts with Thea, expresses her feelings about her condition, cannot seem to eat and the starkness of the house where she is being kept is almost as bare and stark as her new life. Each siren more evil and cunning than the next as Gemma is recruited by these three unusual figures that can transform into other shapes. Penn, Lexi and Thea are the three sirens, violent, evil and dangerous and Gemma needs to become one of them. But, can she? The second in the Watersong Trilogy, we also meet Harper her sister, Daniel the man she seems torn about and Alex, Gemma's boyfriend who is devastated about her disappearance but figures out where she might be.

As the author enlightens readers as to how Gemma came to be a siren we learn the affect it has on her body and why she's fighting them. Unable to eat and hold down food, fearful that she won't return home, her body has become part mythical creature and part mermaid. The song of the siren keeps her focused on their agenda and learning how and why she was chosen chilling. While her sister Harper, Daniel and Alex search for her add Facebook pages and hopefully get some hits and help, the history behind the sirens why one was killed and their goals are revealed.

We meet Alex, Gemma's boyfriend who stands guard on her house and will not leave until he finds her. Daniel who has feelings for Harper but pushes him away because of her search for her sister, yet he does not give up. With Daniel's help and guidance Harper finally opens up and tells him what she feeling and allows him to help find Gemma.

Gemma is miserable only leaving and going with the sirens because they threatened to harm her family. Three evil and wicked sirens can Gemma stand up to them or will she permanently change? The reason for her change and why they took her was for their own selfish purposes and the key was to find another siren before the next full moon. Her new body awkward at times having scales and not legs, dealing with Penn, Lexi and Thea Gemma had to find a reason to stay alive and remain that way. How far will Gemma go to protect the people she loves?

The author allows the reader to hear both Harper and Gemma's innermost voices, concerns, fears and apprehensions. But, will both Alex and Daniel be able to help find Gemma and what can they do that Harper cannot? Enter Marcy, who works with Harper in the library and who covers for her so she can find her sister. But, each time we see Gemma she is tormented by Penn and the other sirens that her body begins to fall apart and if she does not swim and revitalize herself she and the rest will die. There is much more as Gemma tries to bond with Sawyer who at first seems naïve about his relationship with Penn but knows that she cast a spell on him causing him to react to her the way he does and submit to her every command. Imagine being turned, unwillingly into a siren, which according or our author is a mermaid that can enchant people with their voices, usually men. The song of the siren is quite powerful. As Harper, Daniel and Alex search for Gemma and we learn more about Nathanlie their mother who suffers for TBI yet seems aware that Gemma is missing. Knowing that these sirens are monsters and evil would Gemma do their bidding or will she stay true to who she is and rebel?

Choices are decisions we make and have to live with the good and bad of them. The consequences that we endure as a result of poor decision making will become part of what we deal with as Gemma relates to the reader in Chapter 12 telling us that she has made the choice to join the sirens, spend her life with them and needs to deal with it. Leaving behind her family, friends and boyfriend for their own protection was more than just a small sacrifice. Joining the sirens in watching a movie, swimming and spending her day with them would create conflicts within her for Sawyer as she too seemed drawn in by him. Realizing that she could no longer restrain herself she decides to take his car and blow off some steam. But, what would be her next step and will she ever return home as Harper and Daniel clean Bernie's house after the funeral and his murder.

But, Gemma needs her space and what happens will place within the realm of the sirens as she meets an overbearing man in a restaurant and takes action when he follows her and becomes more of a siren than she would like. Not remembering the entire incident but the end result killing someone Gemma's life would never be the same. Would this bond her with the sirens and what about Penn's attitude towards her?

As you come to know Gemma even more you realize that she's concerned about her actions, what is going to happen to her next. But, sometimes bad choices might bring unexpected results as Daniel makes a strong connection between the sirens and the murders of young boys and just might figure our where Gemma is and bring her back home. What happens next will surprise the reader and let you know that Harper will stop at nothing to protect her sister but what about the sirens and what will they do when they realize that she's missing?

When the sirens come face to face with Harper, Daniel, Alex and Gemma what happens will surprise you, the twists and the turn plus the surprise ending will definitely make you want to read Tidal the next in the trilogy. Just what does Penn have in mind for Gemma? Will she figure out what went wrong and decide to destroy more people? Will Gemma's family ever be safe from the sirens? How far or how much will she sacrifice to keep the people she loves safe from harm? What happens to Sawyer and what does Lexi try to do to Gemma?

Sisters forever and some will go more than that extra mile is one issue brought to light in this novel. Friendships, loyalties, caring and the love of two sisters just might outfox the sounds and music of the deadly sirens. Author Amanda Hocking once again pens a novel that keeps the reader glued to the printed page, wearing earplugs so you don't hear the songs being sung, and hoping that someone will finally short circuit the songs of the sirens. Some lullabies can be deadly and others you just need to tune out.

Written by Tash M
Originally posted on confessionsfromromaholics dot com(NOT FULL REVIEW)
ARC provided kindly by Pan Macmillian for reviewing purposes

If you haven't read the first book, this review will ruin the first book for you.

As mentioned in the Wake review, the time between the first book and the second book is a matter of days, well, try the next day for the starting point of Lullaby. It begins with Harper reflecting what happened the previous night. She discovered Penn, Lexi and Theas' deadly secret. They are Sirens, the actual girls mentioned in the Greek legend and they needed a fourth to remain strong and immortal so they chose Gemma, and turned her without her knowing and now they are gone as they have been discovered by Harper, who knows all their secrets

Gemma is forced to go with them as Thea threatened to kill Alex the boy she loved. She can't risk that and she wants to protect Alex and her family so she reluctantly leaves her home town and goes with the girls. But she is not going to play by Thea's rules and use her powers to help them. She is going to suffer whilst pining for those she loves. So whilst Thea uses a young, rich guy named Sawyer to get what she wants in terms of needs except for food, there is a search going on for these girls.

Meanwhile Harper is starting a desperate search for her, armed only with what she knows and research with the help of Alex and Daniel. She knows it's only a matter of time before they pop up again and she lies to protect Gemma from her father Brian by saying that she ran away but the group know the truth. She didn't, and Harper wants Gemma back away from the girls and their deadly influence.

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

****spoilers if you haven't read Wake****

This book picks up right after the ending of Wake. Gemma has gone with the other three sirens since their leader, Penn, has threatened harm to her family and friends. The story centers much more around her older sister, Harper, and Harper's quest to find Gemma and bring her to safety. This one alternates between Harper and Gemma's point of view. Penn is probably the most evil mean girl I have ever read about and again this story continues with the Slasher Movie goodness. There were a lot of "don't do it" and "something bad is going to happen here" type shouts from me. I read this quick and easy read in about 3 hours, so yes, it really kept my attention!

I am glad I got to know Harper a bit better and Hocking does a wonderful job filling out her character. Like all second books in a series, this one is a bit more quiet and not so full of action until I was left hanging at the end of the book. Of course, that is just to keep me reading the rest of the series.
Even Gemma becomes more authentic in this installment. The boys surrounding the girls, Alex and Daniel try their best to help Harper out getting Gemma back home. They may have a few gifts of their own that might help Gemma but those are only alluded to towards the end of the book.

I also loved Marcy, Harper's coworker at the library and her snarky comments. Not everything works like she thinks it should and that is part of Marcy's charm. Now, if Harper can get over the fact that she can't be responsible for Gemma any more than this series will take off. I did miss Nathalie, the girls' mother, not having that strong in this one. I hope she makes more of an appearance in the next. I think I enjoyed this one more than the first since the writing seemed to flow a bit better and it was as cartoony as the first. Parents there is some heavy petting, mentions of alcohol, although no drinking and some violence.

Disclaimer: If you have not read Wake (Watersong) yet, please be aware this review does contain some spoilers.

If you would like to read my review of Wake, it is here:[...]

Background: Lullaby starts right were Wake ended, no time passed, only a few days really. Gemma is with the Sirens trying to survive in her new form and Harper is at home trying to cope and find her sister with the help of others.

Review: As an older sister, I loved that this book in the Watersong series was mostly from Harper's point of view. I understand the compulsion to take care of my siblings, but also get super frustrated with them. I am a fan of Harper and her story line. I think she is great...and we cannot leave out Daniel...SWOON! I love their adorable relationship and how it is progressing...so slowly though...arg!

I feel for Gemma in this book more than the last, she is going through the change for real now, needing to eat and do monstrous things if she plans on surviving with the Sirens. I hope that she stays herself and strong.

I enjoyed the further development of the Sirens and their personalities, they aren't all the same and it really shows in this book. I am glad they are not so one dimensional.

My only gripe with this book is that, I feel like these two- Wake and Lullaby - could have been one book, I am not sure the length or content of books 3 & 4, but I think this could have been a set of a few less than 4. The story just seems to cut off like the end of Wake.

Will I read the next book? YES for SURE, but still...

After being cursed by Penn, Lexi, and Thea, Gemma runs off with the three girls. As if Gemma really has a choice. If she didn't leave then her sister, Harper and her boyfriend Alex would be harmed.

Harper will not give up her sister that easy. She, Alex and Daniel are not afraid. They will fight to the bitter end. Harper better hurry as time is time is running out.

I have not had the pleasure of reading Wake the prior book to Lullaby. However, I was able to quickly piece together what happened in the prior book to Gemma. I could feel Gemma's struggle as she tried to learn how to cope to her new life as a mermaid/siren. I liked seeing the change from the two different forms that Gemma and the rest of the girls took. Usually in books, the characters are either one or the other.

Harper really cared for Gemma and was willing to do anything to get her back. For this fact, I was cheering her on to succeed. However I thought that Daniel was a bit pushy. So for this fact, I was not feeling him and Harper together. Harper needed a friend more then she did a boyfriend. I was immersed in this book. Lullaby is a splashing, good time of a read! I can not wait to read book three, Tidal. I do plan to go back and read Wake.

With its small town, seaside setting and its myth-laced but down to earth story of two equally interesting and appealing sisters now in full motion, I enjoyed this second book in the Watersong series even more than the first. Lullaby picks up right where Wake left off. Gemma didn't ask to become a siren, but when she's forced into it by three others who share that fate she flees with them. She's determined to protect her family and friends from the harm the sirens cause, so she's following their orders to put as much distance as she can between them and her loved ones. Gemma's responsible older sister Harper is determined too--determined to find Gemma and bring her back. She's helped by Alex, her longtime best friend who recently confused things a little by becoming Gemma's boyfriend, and Daniel, a disturbingly appealing boy Harper is not sure she should trust. Amanda Hocking has the knack of making you care about all four of them. The story will continue in Tidal--can't wait.

After reading Wake I really wanted Lullaby and joy of joys I found it for sale at Target of all places. With only one left, I couldn't let it slip through my fingers and I'm so glad I didn't.
Gemma has now run off with Penn, Thea, and Lexi. At first she tries to ignore her siren urges, but finally they over take her. All the while Harper, Alex, and Daniel are searching for her to bring her home. Again I was pulled into Gemma's world. Watching her trial as she tries to come to terms with what she is and how she must survive. Harper struggles with everyday life and finding her sister along with a budding relationship with Daniel. I'm even more fascinated by Daniel as there is something really weird going on with him. By the end of the book I wasn't sure what to expect and it does end on a bit of a cliff hanger so I can't wait to get my hands on book three.

The Watersong Series began with a bang as Amanda Hocking's first never-before published novel, Wake, hit stores. In Wake, Hocking introduces readers to the two sisters, Harper and Gemma, whose relationship is put to the test when Gemma is targeted, and forcefully recruited, by three strangers who appeared mysteriously in their small town. The story resumes in Lullaby as Harper deals with the aftermath of Gemma's running away with Penn, Lexi, and Thea. Her friendship with Daniel becomes strained as she pushes him aside to search for Gemma, researches who Penn, Lexi, and Thea might be, and why they lured Gemma away from their family. Meanwhile, Gemma is stuck with the sirens and hoping against all hope that she can reject their violent nature. Penn, Lexi, and Thea's background story is lightened with a few more details, but it only serves to prove to Gemma that she doesn't belong with them.

The progression of Lullaby is just as it was with Wake. Alex, Harper and Daniel struggle to make sense of the myths and legends they discover while they all feel the pressure of what danger lurks for Gemma, and them. The plot builds to what could've been an explosive conclusion. With only an advanced galley to go on I won't go into too much detail, as scenes might change, but Wake offered readers a surprising twist and stronger taste of the paranormal as Harper faced down Penn, Lexi, and Thea before they stole off into the sea. Lullaby also comes down a tension filled Mexican standoff-like scene; this time Harper doesn't stand alone against the sirens. It was slightly disappointing, to say the least, because it was just too easy after the novel built up so much tension and an aching for some hard-hitting action. However, my faith is not lost in this series as I believe Hocking may have some pretty big tricks hiding up her sleeves for the next installment, Tidal.

Different sides of the characters arise, as well. Alex is so clear about his feelings for Gemma, and Hocking expresses his feelings with few words to lend to his sincerity. When it comes to the romance in this series, it's not cheesy exclamations or a spill of romantic clichés that make readers swoon, but the simple realness of the characters who know who and what they want. A softer, more insightful, side of Harper emerges as Daniel prods her to open up. Gemma, caught between her family and three evil girls, learns to stand up to Penn, Lexi, and Thea, to some degree, while fighting her new body to stay alive.

Lullaby wasn't the action-packed sequel I'd been expecting, but it still does wonders for the series. The characters come more to life and forge a greater bond between readers. Amanda Hocking's Watersong series is only at its beginning, but readers are wise to not miss out on what is sure to be a fantastic series!
*eARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review*

Lullaby by Amanda Hocking is the second book in the Watersong series. This just continues the fun fantasy series about Gemma, a teen girl who becomes a mermaid. In this book she finds out she made a big mistake and seeks to find a way to get back to normal and protect those she loves.

Overall, this is an entertaining read with interesting action near the end. This book left me with some loose ends and questions that I hope get answered in the next book, Tidal. I look forward to reading it to find out. The first book was a very fun read, Wake.

Well, this is the second book and the story definitely gets into more action here...Actually I find this the best of all four books. The very good thing is that the story itself reminds me of the female version of The Lost Boys or something. I love the story, but I had to flip, flip, flip....over to the better parts. I'm definitely not an English Language Nazi, but was craving more elaboration, description, figurative language, metaphor, artistic stuff etc. and there are some parts where Hocking does do it beautifully, but I do wish there was more. Maybe because the story is aimed as light entertainment for young adults; Too much "valley talk" but other than that I really like the story and moved on to the other two. I would definitely watch the movie.

In order to keep her family and friends safe, teenager Gemma Fisher decides to swim with the sirens though she plans to control her evil unlike her new sisters (Penn, Lexi and Thea). However, leaving behind her loved ones was an extremely difficult decision, but controlling her urges seems increasingly impossible as her supernatural prowess grows stronger and her compulsion to kill turns obsessively.

Gemma's boyfriend Alex, her older sister Harper, and Harper's boyfriend Daniel refuse to give up on bringing her home. The trio knows that will entail the seemingly impossible act of eliminating the three surviving sirens. Stunningly, they bring Gemma home, but the siren trio pursues those who abducted one of them with plans to exterminate their newest sister's loved ones.

The second Watersong urban fantasy (see Wake) is an exciting thriller as two teams vie for the "affection" of Gemma. The key is that the three sirens are fully developed with Thea displaying a fascinating feeling that differentiates her from Penn and Lexi. Filled with action, Lullaby is a fast-paced horror tale.

Harriet Klausner

The excitement that Wake ended with continues in Lullaby as you learn more about the Sirens. Gemma is trying so hard to hang on to her humanity, but the Siren urges within herself make it impossible. Some surprising things happen. I'm glad the author is letting these things happen. I love that you are provided perspectives from both Gemma and her sister, Harper. I can't say that I have a favorite at this point. I like them both for different reasons. When it comes to the guys, Daniel is my clear favorite. He has been since book one.

First, I want to thank the publisher for sending me a copy of LULLABY for review!

I lost myself to the watersong once again! Amanda Hocking created a sequel that was even better than its predecessor. LULLABY was filled with secrets, tons of actions, and more of the sirens! It's official: I am addicted to this series!

LULLABY had so much action in it! Especially the ending. As we travel with Gemma and the sirens, we are introduced to more characters and more betrayals. And with action comes consequences, which leads up to this epic scene at the end! I'm honestly not sure how she did it, but Amanda Hocking raised the bar once again for this series (and for all of her novels). It's insane how much I loved LULLABY!

Gemma is my favorite character out of this series so far! She's defiant, brave, and will always stand up for the people she loves. Gemma is just a great character all around. Harper is another great character, but sometimes annoyed me (but not a whole lot.) In fact, all of the characters were great -- including the evil ones. And by evil ones, I mean the sirens. The three sirens were so much fun to read about! Even though they are the bad guys, I love to hate them and hate to love them.

The writing style of LULLABY sucked me into the story right away. I dived straight back into the world of the Watersong, and in it, the actions starts off with a bang immediately. The storyline drew me and wouldn't let me go until I had finished the novel. And now that I've finished LULLABY, I'm over here desperately wanting TIDAL so bad. Like, it's unreal.

And can I just add that the end scene is one of the best end scenes I've ever read. So much stuff happened, and lots of things were revealed, and I'M FEELINGS ALL THE FEELS. Seriously, LULLABY has made my list of Top 12 Books of 2012!

Overall, LULLABY was a great sequel on all levels. Amanda Hocking can do no wrong with YA novels! I highly recommend that you pick up this series! But prepared to be sucked in by the watersong.

Just imagine Little Mermaid on steroids! This is an amazing story that is a true page turner!
I could almost feel myself getting swept away with these mystical creatures. Hocking surely knows how to create the mysticism!
This is a teen girl's dream! I wish this novel was around when I was younger.
I am passing this one on to one of my lucky students !

This book was by far the single most amazing book i have ever read i loved the intensness in it and the most important part was how strongly she wrote the book i mean she cant get any better i am sooo exited for the next book and i am just waiting to get it!!!!! If you like romance, drama, and action read all of the water song books they are amazing and AmandaHocking is the best writer EVER!!!!!

love it. It's so mysterious and mind blowing.
just one little problem mabey should have put less
swearing for slightly younger audiances but over all I
just LOVED it. like everyone should read it

signed COWcow

I love Amanda Hocking and her imagination. I saw her on the Anderson Cooper show and so glad I decided to order her first book in this series and look forward to the third due out in June, which I have already ordered. I have shared her books with my friends and they also enjoy her writing.

Amanda has a great way of involving your heart in the story as well as your attention right away. Her plot lines and charachters are original and I so love to read her books. I havepassed her name and books on to so many of my friends. Keep up the great job!

Wow. "Lullaby" was awesome, awesome, awesome, and it was even better than the first novel. The main characters never disappoint, and I loved reading more about Gemma, Alex, Harper, and Daniel. I really love the Watersong Series and I can't wait to read the rest of it!