Crescendo

Crescendo is the second installment in Becca Fitzpatrick's Hush, Hush series, following teen protagonist Nora Grey's supernatural romance with her guardian angel, Patch. The novel reached the New York Times Best Sellers list and earned recognition from the Young Adult Library Services Association. Nora's relationship with Patch faces obstacles when he becomes involved with her longtime rival Marcie. As Nora seeks answers about her father's murder by someone known as the "Black Hand," she reconnects with Scott, an old friend hiding his own supernatural secrets. The narrative centers on Nora's quest to uncover truth while navigating complex relationships, deadly threats, and the rules that govern angels and Nephilim. Her investigations put her in increasing danger as she tries to determine who she can trust. The story explores themes of loyalty, deception, and the price of forbidden love in a world where heavenly beings and humans collide.

Many readers found Crescendo inferior to its predecessor Hush, Hush, citing frustration with the main character Nora's behavior and decision-making. Numerous reviews note the relationship drama feels forced and artificial. Readers appreciated: - The darker, more intense supernatural elements - Patch's character development - The atmospheric writing style - The building mystery and plot twists Common criticisms: - Nora becomes "whiny," "paranoid," and "immature" - Too much relationship angst and miscommunication - Plot feels stretched and repetitive - Side characters lack depth Ratings: Goodreads: 3.95/5 (232,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (1,100+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.3/5 (900+ ratings) "The relationship problems could have been solved with one conversation," notes one popular Goodreads review. Another reader states: "The mystery elements save what would otherwise be a frustrating read dominated by teenage drama."

Fallen by Lauren Kate A mortal girl discovers her connection to an ancient curse while untangling her complicated relationship with a fallen angel who has followed her through multiple lifetimes.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare A teenage girl enters a hidden world of demon hunters and supernatural beings when she meets a mysterious boy who introduces her to her true heritage.

Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins The daughter of a guardian angel and a fallen angel struggles with her identity while developing feelings for another supernatural being who could lead to her destruction.

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand A part-angel girl must fulfill her divine purpose while balancing her growing feelings for two different boys - one human and one supernatural.

Evermore by Alyson Noël After losing her family, a girl develops psychic abilities and becomes entangled with an immortal being who holds secrets about her past and future.

🕊️ The original title for the "Hush, Hush" series was "Angel," but it was changed during the publishing process to create more intrigue. 📚 Becca Fitzpatrick wrote the first draft of "Hush, Hush" while taking a class on "How to Write Your Novel" at a local community college. ✨ The character of Patch was partially inspired by the author's fascination with Milton's "Paradise Lost" and its portrayal of fallen angels. 🎬 The film rights to the "Hush, Hush" series were optioned by LD Entertainment in 2012, though the movie has yet to be produced. 🖋️ Fitzpatrick spent nearly five years revising and rewriting "Hush, Hush" before it was finally published, making over 100 significant changes to the manuscript.