I had to read this before the movie premiered (it's my thing, I like to have my own picture in my head for a story before a movie imposes someone else's picture). It's very formulaic. Star-crossed teen lovers with a paranormal twist which is now it's own genre these days. Refreshingly, the story is told from the male protagonists POV which gives 'Beautiful Creatures' a small leg-up on other books in it's niche. All in all, this was a fun read that would appeal to both Twilight & Sookie Stackhouse fans. Picking up the next book soon, & looking forward to the film release.