Book Review: Sleepless by Cyn Balog

Sleepless by Cyn Balog
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Release Date: July 13, 2010
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Pages: 224
Source: Received from publicist for honest review

Summary: Eron DeMarchelle isn't supposed to feel this connection. He is a Sandman, a supernatural being whose purpose is to seduce his human charges to sleep. Though he can communicate with his charges in their dreams, he isn't encouraged to do so. After all, becoming too involved in one human's life could prevent him from helping others get their needed rest. But he can't deny that he feels something for Julia, a lonely girl with fiery red hair and sad dreams. Just weeks ago, her boyfriend died in a car accident, and Eron can tell that she feels more alone than ever. Eron was human once too, many years ago, and he remembers how it felt to lose the one he loved. In the past, Eron has broken rules to protect Julia, but now, when she seems to need him more than ever, he can't reach her. Eron's time as a Sandman is coming to a close, and his replacement doesn't seem to care about his charges. Worse, Julia is facing dangers she doesn't recognize, and Eron, as he transitions back to being human, may be the only one who can save her. . . .Even once they've become human again, Sandmen are forbidden to communicate with their charges. But Eron knows he won't be able to forget Julia. Will he risk everything for a chance to be with the girl he loves?

My Review: Sleepless was a witty, exciting and refreshing YA novel. It literally kept me sleepless until I finished it. The plot was absorbing and uniquely crafted. The idea of a Sandman soothing humans to sleep was magical yet innocent. I am sure some of you remember the Sandman childhood folk story. Seeing it come to life in YA was incredibly entertaining and fun! Now, Eron, was by far an amazing character and Sandman. His personality was filled with elegance and style. In my eyes, he was the ultimate, old-fashioned, heartthrob. Julia, the female protagonist was strong-willed and likable. The dual narration between the two distinct voices was well-written and the transitions between scenes were organized.

Eron was Julia's Sandman, every night his duty was to soothe her to sleep without touching or causing her distress. He loved her from afar and hoped to one day meet her once his Sandman commitment of 100 years was finalized. The twist came along once Julia's boyfriend, Griffin tragically passed and was brought into the world that Eron lived in. In order for Eron to transform back into humanity he had to teach Griffin to let go of his anger and soothe Julia in her sleepy state. Throughout Eron's transition he sometimes had the opportunity to fill his human form for a couple of hours. That is where him and Julia had a chance to re-acquaint themselves in reality. Their chemistry was magnificent and infectious. I couldn't stop smiling whenever they were around each other.

The journey for Eron was difficult due to a few people who were holding him back. I enjoyed watching his fight to be with Julia. I found pleasure in the thought that true love existed in this novel. The ending had an "Oh Hell No" moment but then left me feeling ecstatic. Honestly, after I finished the book I hugged it. I don't normally do that so that's how significant this book was to me. I loved every minute of this fast-paced story with exceptionally likable characters. It warmed my heart and I really am yearning for a sequel. Although, I don't think Cyn Balog will be writing one since the novel ended without any cliffhangers. On the whole, a fantastic read with an original interpretation of the Sandman.

My Rating:
Author's Info:


Cyn Balog is the author of the young adult paranormal novels FAIRY TALE and SLEEPLESS. She lives outside Allentown, Pennsylvania with her husband and daughters.

For more info on Cyn, visit her site(s):
-Website
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