This was positively delightful and corresponded well with my recent craving for historical fiction. I don't think I've ever read a book like this, though I know there are more out there like it. What I found most fascinating was how Leanna Renee Hieber had taken direct inspiration from books like Dorian Gray (by Oscar Wilde) and I realized halfway throughout the story (and prior to reading the acknowledgements section) just where her inspiration was fitting in.I cannot wait to read the second and third books, and I'm so grateful for Lillian who recommended this to me. Spooky at times, tense maybe but not a full page turner, and wonderfully romantic yes is a very Jane Austin way.This book took to long for me to complete.Which is impart on my work load, but also in the fact that I would read approx 10 to 15 pages and just get tiered. Don't mistake my lack of enthusiasm as a sign that this book is a down right bore. It just didn't make me read it every chance I got.Darker Still is mildly entertaining with its quirky dear diary feel. Which doesn't get old, but does get aggravating. Mainly when she breaks to do the plain that she was just explaining to us. Natalie is a smart and reminds me of a high schooler, which given the time period is pretty close to the truth. Her love for Lord Denbury borders on madding or stalker. Though he really is no better. The Plot is based around the mystery that is Lord Denbury. Which is more of a hunting. There goal in the end is to free the Lord from is Painting, kill the demon, and live happily ever after. Though mainly just kill the demon that has taken over the body of Denbury. The exsacution of the plain to reunite the soul of Lord Denbury and his body was quite simple and really only took a mere 10 pages to explain. So why is the book 300 pages long, why to build up the plot.I would give this up as a good throw back to the Gothic novels of the 1900's.
What do You think about Darker Still (2011)?
Fantastical and lovely and romantic, this gothic love story will have you swooning!
—Gaby
I'm not even going to review this, Summer {is now a Gryffindor} did it for me.
—Naynay
pleasantly surprised how quickly this YA book was to read
—Bryce
This was okayyyy a little slow for me tho
—tiffany
