Is Anyone Really Excited for Stephanie Meyer's Release of 'Midnight Sun'? Why or Why Not?

Stephanie Meyer, a controversial writer with a polarizing body of work, has announced the release of her long-awaited book, 'Midnight Sun.' While some fans may be curious, many are expressing a lack of enthusiasm. Let's delve into the reasons behind this tepid reception.

Stephanie Meyer's Writing and Literary Criticisms

Many detractors share a common sentiment that Meyer is a writer who may have overstepped the boundaries of creative writing. Her works are often criticized for the codependent characters and abusive plotlines. Some argue that the transparency about her Mormon upbringing could be linked to these themes.

Twilight, while widely recognized, is not universally celebrated as a love story. Instead, many see it as a portrayal of codependency. Characters Bella and Edward are often cited as examples of unhealthy relationships, with Bella portrayed as weak and Edward as abusive. This perspective has led some to avoid Meyer's work, including 'Midnight Sun.'

Anticipation vs. Reality

The premise of 'Midnight Sun,' written from Edward's point of view, adds another layer of skepticism. Readers who have access to leaked drafts or have read fanfiction reimagining the characters and storylines suggest that Meyer might not be adding significant value. Fans are questioning the novelty of the rehash and wondering if it is truly a new story or just another way to satisfy fan demand.

Some critics compare Meyer's work to less-than-stellar results in other projects. Take, for instance, the success stories of books written from different perspectives, which often shine more brightly. On a Pale Horse and And Eternity, both considered brilliant by many, yet And Eternity has its issues. The former Under the Velvet Cloak was a novel, but its point of contention remains elusive, leading to questions about whether fans are simply chasing the lowest hanging fruit.

Marketing and Timing

The timing of the release is also raising eyebrows. With the ongoing pandemic and associated lockdowns, some readers feel that Meyer might be capitalizing on a situation where people have few other options for entertainment. The scheduled release during or shortly after the national lockdown, especially with rising cases and concerns about social distancing, might not bode well for the reception of the book.

Moreover, many book enthusiasts have moved on, both in terms of interest and reading preferences. With numerous delays since 2008, 'Midnight Sun' has the feeling of "too little, too late." Fans and critics alike acknowledge that the immense hype surrounding the original Twilight series might be too high a bar to surpass, particularly given the gap in time and the potential for new stories to be more engaging.

Conclusion: The Fall of Enthusiasm

There is a sense among seasoned readers and fans that 'Midnight Sun' is merely a disappointment. While there might be nostalgic reasons for some to purchase and read the book, the overall sentiment is one of lackluster reception. The book is expected to provide more of the same, with fewer chances of rekindling the passion and excitement felt by the initial Twilight readers.

Ultimately, the modest interest in this release reflects a broader trend: the waning influence of long-entrenched franchises and the renewed focus on fresh, original stories. It remains to be seen if 'Midnight Sun' can capture the imagination of new and old readers alike, but it seems unlikely that it will reignite the same level of excitement as the original Twilight series did.