The Host: A Novel

Stephenie Meyer

Apr 2010 · Sold by Back Bay Books

About this ebook

Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. The earth has been invaded by a species that take over the minds of their human hosts while leaving their bodies intact, and most of humanity has succumbed.

Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, knew about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the too vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind.

Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of the man Melanie loves -- Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer yearns for a man she's never met. As outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off to search for the man they both love.

Featuring what may be the first love triangle involving only two bodies, The Host is a riveting and unforgettable novel that will bring a vast new readership to one of the most compelling writers of our time.

Ratings and reviews

This is absolutely one of my favorite books! Even compared to twilight. I love how much depth this book has, how level-headed she needs to be during danger. and how smart Uncle Jeb really is. Each time I reread, there's more I learn! I love how pure the "Hosts" are. I love that there is a limited amount of cussing in it. I kind of wish there is a second book, but I know it would have to change the plot drastically if that happened. War would have to happen, and in my mind, I would love for Wonderer after she had lost her mate, she would become a mother, so her offspring could help show the host what humans are really like, probably form a new host culture. Beautiful book. There is none like it I have found.. Yet..!

I first read this book years ago during the Twilight craze. I think that this book is a new level of writing for the author and it has quickly become one of my favorite books of all time. The movie wasn't bad but it left great big holes in the story and made the Souls way more combatant than they should have been. I guess anything goes when you are trying to spice up a story that mostly takes place inside somebody's head. Now all I have to worry about is someone ruining the sequel.

I absolutely love this book. Do not be wary because your first thought when you see "Stephenie Meyer" is Kristen Stewart, or the Twilight movies. This book is a passionate story that makes you reconsider what it really means to be human and to have control over who you are and what you do. Beautifully written with strong characters and (as always with a classic, amazing Stephenie Meyer book), not one, but TWO poetic love stories. Definitely worth a read. Beautiful and tragic, with shocking twists and a great ending. Need a sequel!!!!

About the author

Stephenie Meyer is the author of the The Chemist, the #1 bestselling Twilight Saga and The Host. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in English literature, and she lives with her husband and three young sons in Arizona.