HOVER blew me away with two things: the world it's set in and the relationship between Jackson and Ari. The concept of aliens can and has been done in numerous ways, but I love how Melissa West showcases them in hers. These aliens look human. For the most part, they act it in terms of how they feel emotions, but there are a few key differences. One is that a substance in their body can heal themselves, making them hard to kill. Another is that they can make a normal human one of them. Their mostly peaceful planet is filled with beauty and originality, and I felt wrapped in it all through the book.

The relationship between Jackson and Ari is slow-developing in the best way and sizzling through every second of it. But beyond the many swoons Jackson brings, the emotional depth to their relationship is so touching, it had me in tears several times. Ari especially has excellent growth in this novel, and Jackson and her together push each other to be their very best versions in leaps and bounds. I was touched by the relationship between them that West created.

Topping it off with an action-packed plot that has me begging for the third book, I thoroughly enjoyed every second of HOVER. Jackson and Ari may be on my list of top YA lit couples, and I will forever be a fan of aliens because of this book.

Book Summary