Twelve years after the publication of the last book in the Twilight series, Stephanie Meyer published twilight from the perspective of Edward Cullen. As a fan of the Twilight series as an adolescent. I had recently become reintroduced to the world of angsty, vampire/human romances. It felt like a warm welcome despite the not-so-great writing. Any young girl in their adolescence is shamed for any of their interests, especially if they involve brooding vampires played by Robert Pattinson. Coming back to the world of Twilight now, it is nice to enjoy the ridiculousness of the Twilight universe alongside the well written aspects guilt free.
In Midnight Sun, we see the love story from Edward’s perspective. We see how infatuated with Bella he really is, unlike the portrayal of Edward’s emotions from twilight in both the film and book. His obsessive behaviours and need to “protect” Bella have odd, but justifiable reasons. Edward is a “vegetarian”, (he only kills animals to eat instead of humans) but finds Bella’s blood irresistible for some reason. This unexplained obsession leads Edward to timidly pursue Bella romantically. Edward watching Bella while she sleeps is even somewhat justified; he is attempting to get used to the scent of her irresistible blood. Still creepy and violating, nonetheless.
The book also shows a deeper insight into Bella and Edward’s relationship. The pair ask each other questions each day, taking turns each day to ask questions about one another’s lives. There is a deeper sense of meaning and joy between the couple in comparison to Bella’s perspective and especially in comparison to the films. There is also more background knowledge on the Cullen family and their views on Edward pursuing a romantic relationship with a human.
Overall, it was an entertaining read, not fantastic but good, and a great form of escapism from the real world. Especially reading this with a sense of nostalgia from previous years; to now enjoying some aspects of Twilight unapologetically.