I received this book from the author, willing to try something out of my usual genre.  What a pleasant surprise!  The book held me captive!  It's a love story but not sappy, thriller but not gory, fantasy but not unrealistic.  As Cody tries to figure out the family curse, Lisa stands by his side.  Cody's family and friends help along the way, and much it told about them so you can get to know them.  The book does not move too fast or too slow- paced just right to keep you moving through the characters experiences.  I am looking forward to checking out the rest in the series.  It would be a great read for older teens through adults.