Genre: Paranormal Young AdultSynopsis: Three years ago, Grace Divine found his brother, Jude, bloody and wounded, at the same time that Daniel disappeared. Now Daniel is back. Grace still has a lot of questions unanswered, and is still unable to believe his sudden reappearance. Why is he back? Why did he leave in the first place? And why is his brother so angry with him? As she discovers the reality behind the mysterious events happening around her, she also realizes that she has an important part to play. The question is, will she accept her role?
Review:
The Dark Divine may sound like your regular girl-meets-strange-boy, but that is where Bree Despain proves us wrong. She takes the Paranormal genre to a whole other level with this original plot line. It was absolutely intriguing and mysterious, making me want to keep reading, desperate to learn more.
However, as you might have heard from the mixed reviews, I do agree that this might not be for everyone. I wouldn't call the book religious exactly but it does brush on that area a bit. For some, it works and for some, it doesn't. This is completely understandable since we do have different beliefs and traditions. For this reason, if you are wary of books touching on religious beliefs, you might end up not buying the story. If you don't mind though, do try to look past that aspect because it's a good story, period.
I loved the main character, Grace Divine. I believed in her, empathized, and sympathized with her. I did like the other characters as well such as Daniel, Jude, and her father -- very complex and realistic. I also liked the fact that though Daniel was a bit of a "bad boy," he didn't seem at all like a walking bad-boy cliche, which I just hate. Overall, I am just looking forward to seeing how each of them grow and mature as characters, especially Grace herself.
Cover: 3 starsI do like the cover; very simple and eye-catching. It doesn't give too much away, and it makes the book really mysterious. However, I feel like it just doesn't truly capture what The Dark Divine is about.
Overall: 4.5 stars!
I liked this book A LOT. Its story is solid and unexpected, mysterious and surprising all over. It features likable and empathetic characters, and solid writing. I liked how it ended, leaving me wanting for more. Do give it a try, at least, even if you think you won't like it. It'd be sad if people didn't pick it up just because of its minor religious aspects -- try to look past that, if possible. It's a good read, plain and simple.
I was one of those who was wary about reading this book, but surprisingly ended up really liking it. I can't wait for The Lost Saint.
ReplyDeleteahh im glad for your review i plan on buying this soon :)
ReplyDeleteYeah, the cover is eye-catching but lacks connection to the story. I'm not religious but the faith aspect of the book didn't bother me. I have my reservations about this book but overall it was decent and I may be continuing the series with The Lost Saint.
ReplyDelete+JMJ+
ReplyDeleteI hadn't heard of the religious aspects--which is a pity because those are what intrigue me the most! =P Do you think you could be a little more specific, Jillian, without giving away a spoiler? Are these aspects controversial, or do they just turn off people who don't want that sort of thing in their leisure reading?
@Adriana: I'm glad you ended up liking it :) I can't wait for the sequel either.
ReplyDelete@Blueicegal: Would love to know what you think of it when you get to read it!
@Kris: Glad to know you thought it was good too. I am definitely looking forward to reading its sequel.
@E: They don't have anything controversial, like let's say, The Da Vinci Code. It's more of the latter; there are a lot who just don't like anything that has to do with anything religious, and from what I've been hearing and reading, that's the main reason why there's a lot of mixed reviews for this one.
I LOVED this one! Great review :)
ReplyDelete@Juju: Glad you loved it as much as I do as well! :) And thank you!
ReplyDeleteGood review. I am not one that likes preachy books, and get wary when the word "Christianity" is passed around. But it didn't bother me in this book. I didn't feel like Ms. Despain was trying to convert me.
ReplyDeleteHeather