October 1, 2015

Hey, Kitten

Obsidian / Onyx / Opal / Origin / Opposition by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Lux #1-5
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Publication Date: May 8, 2012 / August 14, 2012 / December 11, 2012 / August 27, 2013 / August 5, 2014
Source/Format: Owned || Paperback


My relationship with this series is certainly interesting. While I'd never consider it a personal, all-time favorite, I really have had fun reading it! I've reread the first two novels more than once, and reread the third and the fourth as well. And you know what? I've enjoyed it tremendously each time, even in the instances where I know what happens. There's something irresistibly entertaining about this story that Jennifer L. Armentrout has penned, and I can certainly see why she's gained an extremely devoted fan base (that includes yours truly). 

In my humble opinion, there are simply three reasons that you ought to check out the Lux series - Obsidian, Onyx, Opal, Origin and Opposition. (When I told Rachel this, she responded with, "Daemon, Daemon and Daemon." She's partially right, but that's certainly not the only reason you should read this series... though it's admittedly a very good one.) 

1. The story

Armentrout did a bang-up job with her storytelling! She weaves together such an incredible tale, set within the world we know and love, but filled to the brim with such fascinating alien lore. I honestly think that it is one of the cleverest alien-related stories I've ever encountered. The history and culture of the Lux (and the Arum, too) are so simple, yet they're so rich and so nuanced. I really enjoyed having all these revelations unfold in front of my eyes. Also, the twists and turns of Katy and Daemon's story were so unexpected and so perfectly done, especially the situation escalated and the stakes got higher and higher during the progression of the series.

2. The humor

It is certainly a special, consistent talent of Ms. Armentrout's to make me laugh out loud when I'm reading her stories. The witty repartee between her characters, the sassy one-liners that got tossed in, the funny thoughts that run through people's minds - they're all woven tightly into the heart of this series, and I love it. It's something that makes this series unforgettable, and in my mind, it will always be part of its charm.

3. The characters

I really have a soft spot for the characters in the Lux series. I'm not going to list everyone's names here, but I will tell you about my two favorite people - Katy and Daemon. Katy is this spunky gal who loves her mom, books and gardening, who just happens to have her life turned upside down when she meets her next door neighbors, Dee and Daemon Black. She's really stubborn, and brave, and determined not to fall into the mold of being typical - and she certainly does not. Daemon, on the other hand, is an incredibly attractive, arrogant alien, one of the Luxen, a race made of beings of light. He's equals Katy in her stubbornness, but embraces all the cliches of his being a brooding, arrogrant, good-looking guy... in a way that's simply too charming to resist. Sparks fly between them - of enmity, at first, then a tentative friendship, then something more. And boy, oh boy, I certainly was on board with their ship! It's passionate and fun; it's heartbreaking and emotional. But, at its core, it is totally worth the ride.

In case it isn't clear, I really, really enjoyed the Lux series. It's full of imagination and heart, with just the right amounts of action and sass. The plot will reel you in, and instantly make you want to neglect any life responsibilities you've got to just keep reading. If you're looking for a series that will make you laugh, make you fall in love with characters to the point you'll get stressed out about their circumstances, make you feel entertained from start to finish, this is definitely the series for you. And if the alien thing makes you a little wary? Don't let your doubts stop you from giving this a shot. I can promise that Armentrout's take on aliens is unique and extremely well-done. I sincerely hope that if you haven't yet read this series, I've convinced you to at least give you a shot!

In case you were curious about my thoughts on each individual novel, you can read those below:

Obsidian is definitely a series starter that holds its own. It's the kind of first book I tremendously enjoy because it lays the groundwork for the lore, introduces many important characters and really invites the reader to get invested in the story. It's a major bonus that this novel has most of the funniest moments in this series, and that it's jam-packed with action and banter and fun!

Onyx is definitely a solid sophomore addition to the series, even though it happens to be my least favorite. There are a lot of frustrating elements (*cough* Blake *cough*) that show up, and while they serve to further the overall series arc, they just left me feeling a tad bit annoyed. Still, nothing like some sweet Daemon moments and surprising twists to make sure you stay invested.

Opal is where the action gets super intense. The stakes are starting to get higher, and things are taking a turn for the intense - and things end on an exter. What I love most about this one is that Katy shows off her badass side even more than she already has (which is saying something)! It's really cool to see her come into and hold her own, even when surrounded by so many incredible, off the charts things.

Origin is probably my favorite of the entire series! There's so much action, revelation and emotion just packed into these pages. You honestly won't be able to stop turning them as you try to figure out how Katy, Daemon and everyone else are going to get out of the latest situation they're in. I honestly just think it was a really fun, intense ride - and it's so, so, so amazingly done.

Opposition is an extremely good series ender. It's not often that I can say that a series has ended on a satisfying note, but I'm happy to report that it does in this case. In Armentrout's capable hands, Katy and Daemon's story is brought to the perfect close. I got everything I wanted from this one - emotion, humor and action all blended perfectly. It's definitely one of the good ones!

7 Comments:

  1. The Lux series is one of my personal favourites. I find with all of Jennifer L. Armentrouts' books, I am always laughing out loud. I agree that she creates the best one-liners, which are somewhat ridiculous, but completely hilarious. Daemon is such a great character. I get why some people don't like him because of his arrogance and what not, but I have such a soft spot for him and his love for Katy. I think Obsidian and Onyx were my favourites from the series (mostly because of the banter). I'm happy you enjoyed the series :).

    Sarah @ The Reading Petal

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  2. I'm a big fan of this series, but I still haven't read Opposition. I'm just so nervous, I think. I am also quite infatuated with Daemon Black. It took me a bit to warm up to him, but then I did!!!

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  3. I have not read the last book, yet! What is wrong with meeee?????

    Kate @ Ex Libris

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  4. I've always been intrigued by this series, but have to be honest and say I'm turned off by the covers! I'm being picky, I know, especially because MANY people love this series... I hope to get to these eventually and am glad to hear that the characters have some witty banter! My faveeee.

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  5. I think Origin might be my fave too. I love that you continue to re-read this series. It's been awhile for me and I miss Daemon. You NEED to read the Covenant series!

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  6. I’ve only read the first three books in this series. I liked them, so I don’t know why I stopped. I need to pick up the rest of the series. Wonderful series review, Alexa.

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  7. The Lux series by Jennifer L. Armentrout is a captivating and engaging read that offers a mix of action, romance, and suspense. The story is captivating, with well-developed characters and a personal connection to the characters, particularly Katy and Daemon. Each book in the series contributes to the overall narrative arc, with each installment offering unique twists and turns. The dynamic between Katy and Daemon is electric, and the world-building is masterfully crafted, blending contemporary life with the intrigue of an otherworldly race. The series offers a rollercoaster of emotions that leaves readers invested in the fate of its characters. divorce lawyers in northern virginia

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