"The Raven Boys" by Maggie Stiefvater

4 of 5 stars.

The Basics: This novels follows the raven boys of the prestigious Aglionby Academy. Gansey is searching to find a ley line (death line) which would give him access to Glendower. This would give him the ability to wish for anything his heart desires. Following him on his journey is Ronan, a hot-head who is in danger of being kicked out of Aglionby if he doesn't get his grades up. Also, Adam is assisting Gansey is his search while balancing school, 2 jobs and a violent home life. Gansey's reclusive roommate Noah is also along for the ride but is hiding a big secret.
The boys later meet Blue and her psychic family. Though Blue doesn't possess the same abilities as her family, her presence makes their abilities stronger which makes her all the more useful. When Blue helps the boys find the ley line they've been searching for, they uncover many disturbing truths about their teacher Mr. Whelk and Blue's seemingly secretive aunt Neeve. 

My Thoughts: I did enjoy the book but it was very slow in the beginning. I almost gave up reading it. I kept reading only because it was part of a read along for Bookish Lifestyle. There were 2 discussions on the book and I participated in both. I did end up enjoying the book much more as the plot developed.
So, I love that Blue got along with the boys pretty seamlessly after their initial interaction at her job. But I did feel as though the romance aspect of this book fell apart. It wasn't about romance at all though the book starts off saying that Blue was well aware that she would kill her true love after a kiss. The story developed more into a search to waken the ley line, find Glendower and later expose Mr. Whelk (I'll leave the spoiler out).
Eventually I will read the other books in the series because I would like to know what happened to Neeve, what will happen to Adam after his interaction with the ley line and how Ronan's confession will develop in the next book.

~Remember, teachers read fun stuff too!