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The Body Finder #3
The Last Echo
Violet has always kept her strange ability to sense dead bodies a secret from everyone except her family and best-friend-turned-boyfriend Jay. But now she's using her gift to help track down murderers, working in a group that includes the mysterious and dangerously attractive Rafe. When Violet discovers the body of a college girl murdered by 'the girlfriend collector', she is determine to solve the case. But now the serial killer is on the lookout for a new 'relationship' and Violet seems to have caught his eye...
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2012
168 people are currently reading
13536 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Derting
43 books5,023 followersKimberly Derting once wanted to be a “foxy lady trucker” but changed her mind when she took 7th-grade journalism and discovered writing. She hasn’t looked back since.
She’s the author of award-winning young adult novels, including The Body Finder series, The Pledge trilogy, and The Taking trilogy. She’s also co-written many popular picture books, including the Loves Science series, the Farm Friends series, and Penny: The Engineering Tail of The Fourth Little Pig. Her first solo picture book is Baby Steps: A Picture Book For New Siblings.
Her young adult books have been translated into over 15 languages, and both THE BODY FINDER and THE PLEDGE were YALSA's Best Fiction for Young Adults selections. Her picture books have received starred reviews, been Amazon book-of-the-month picks, and were featured in Good Housekeeping.
These days, Kimberly lives in the Pacific Northwest, where she watches WAY too much Netflix, orders 20-pound boxes of Nerds gumballs from Amazon, and loves to complain about the rain even though she lives in Seattle, where it rains ALL of the time! You can find her online at www.kimberlyderting.com
Note: I'm the worst about checking my Goodreads email...I apologize if I don't get back to you! If you need to reach me, try emailing me at kim(at)kimberlyderting(dot)com
She’s the author of award-winning young adult novels, including The Body Finder series, The Pledge trilogy, and The Taking trilogy. She’s also co-written many popular picture books, including the Loves Science series, the Farm Friends series, and Penny: The Engineering Tail of The Fourth Little Pig. Her first solo picture book is Baby Steps: A Picture Book For New Siblings.
Her young adult books have been translated into over 15 languages, and both THE BODY FINDER and THE PLEDGE were YALSA's Best Fiction for Young Adults selections. Her picture books have received starred reviews, been Amazon book-of-the-month picks, and were featured in Good Housekeeping.
These days, Kimberly lives in the Pacific Northwest, where she watches WAY too much Netflix, orders 20-pound boxes of Nerds gumballs from Amazon, and loves to complain about the rain even though she lives in Seattle, where it rains ALL of the time! You can find her online at www.kimberlyderting.com
Note: I'm the worst about checking my Goodreads email...I apologize if I don't get back to you! If you need to reach me, try emailing me at kim(at)kimberlyderting(dot)com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,092 reviews
January 15, 2013
Pre-Review:
Even though I'm so incredibly excited for this book to come out, I've got a few issues that I'm worrying about. Okay, one particularly specific issue in mind:
Rafe
I don't like Rafe because I have a feeling Kimberly Derting's going to pull a Twilight and throw in a love triangle. And I honestly don't want this to happen! JAY + VIOLET! They're perfect! Let them stay together!
I would be so happy if:
-Rafe hits on Vi but she doesn't even give him the time of day
-Jay takes his shirt off
-Jay takes his pants off (Where am I going with this?)
-Violet and Jay don't get into any stupid fights like in Desires of the Dead (Cause their fight really bugged me)
-Jay beats up Rafe
I love that certain characters have developed but I don't want any steps back here. Rafe seems alright but I would love to have a female YA character say 'Go away dude, I have the world's best boyfriend so go take your sparkly eyes and hot bod to some other chick.' What I mean is Violet is awesome, Jay is sexy, and Rafe better not get involved...
Post Review
Coming soon...
April 26, 2012
I’m so angry right now! SO ANGRY!
Why Kimberly, why? Why is this book about RafeRafeRafe? Why couldn’t you have started another series if you wanted to tell his story, instead of just making him pretty much the leading character of The Last Echo, when it should have been all about Violet?? WHYYY? This was one of my favorite series! And now it’s ruined, ruined, ruined!! Damn you “Third Book In A Series Curse”, damn you!!!
I never thought that a The Body Finder novel could ever bore me to tears, but whenever Rafe was in the scene my eyes would begin to roll uncontrollably and I just wanted it to be over soon, because I REALLY COULDN’T CARE LESS about this infuriating, meddlesome, oppressive jerk, and it made me sick every time Violet started blushing because he was near. Really? Really, Violet? This isn’t you, and I still feel ashamed by your actions and thoughts!
The only thing that I actually enjoyed in the book was the Collector -- and his chapters. They were creepy, they were scary, they were believable, they were awesome. But EVERYTHING ELSE: RUINED! Where are the cute, perfect, heart melting Violet and Jay moments? Where are the funny Chelsea, Jules & Claire scenes? Where is everything that used to make this series stand out from all the other YA crap? I just feel like crying, because THIS BOOK IS LIKE A SLAP IN MY FACE!
Oh, and I will NOT be reading the next one! Just thinking about it makes me sick! SICK! >___>
*PT* Cuidado com o Dálmata
Why Kimberly, why? Why is this book about RafeRafeRafe? Why couldn’t you have started another series if you wanted to tell his story, instead of just making him pretty much the leading character of The Last Echo, when it should have been all about Violet?? WHYYY? This was one of my favorite series! And now it’s ruined, ruined, ruined!! Damn you “Third Book In A Series Curse”, damn you!!!
I never thought that a The Body Finder novel could ever bore me to tears, but whenever Rafe was in the scene my eyes would begin to roll uncontrollably and I just wanted it to be over soon, because I REALLY COULDN’T CARE LESS about this infuriating, meddlesome, oppressive jerk, and it made me sick every time Violet started blushing because he was near. Really? Really, Violet? This isn’t you, and I still feel ashamed by your actions and thoughts!
The only thing that I actually enjoyed in the book was the Collector -- and his chapters. They were creepy, they were scary, they were believable, they were awesome. But EVERYTHING ELSE: RUINED! Where are the cute, perfect, heart melting Violet and Jay moments? Where are the funny Chelsea, Jules & Claire scenes? Where is everything that used to make this series stand out from all the other YA crap? I just feel like crying, because THIS BOOK IS LIKE A SLAP IN MY FACE!
Oh, and I will NOT be reading the next one! Just thinking about it makes me sick! SICK! >___>
*PT* Cuidado com o Dálmata
June 24, 2012
I just finished Desires of the Dead, and I am going to be sooooo upset if she gets with Rafe! Does the main character always need to attract two guys??? Why can't they ever just be happy with what they have and leave the other guy aloneeeeee? Honestly, it makes me so mad. The odds of a girl finding ONE amazing guy is extremely slim, but TWO? Really? Still, I cant wait for the next one. April can't come fast enough...
Edit After Reading:
PLEASE, OH PLEASE, MAKE THE LOVE TRIANGLES STOP!
Edit After Reading:
PLEASE, OH PLEASE, MAKE THE LOVE TRIANGLES STOP!
January 1, 2012
My Thoughts: And I thought The Body Finder and Desires Of The Dead were awesome books. The Last Echo is by far the best in the series so far.
We are back with Violet who can see imprints. Remember, she can see the imprints of dead people on the killers bodies. Jay, her super cool boyfriend is also around throughout the novel. He is there to help Violet get through life with her special abilities.
Violet is working with a group of people who have similar abilities to hers. There is Sam, Sarah, Rafe, Gemma, and Krystal. Each person contributes to the group in their own way.
The Last Echo has a few bad guys dipped in. First, there is James Nu, who killed his whole family. He and Violet run into each other and he takes a liking to her, and is drawn to her. Yuck.
Than, there is the main bad guy. I won't say his name but he is known as The Girlfriend Collector, creepy much? His goal is to find a girl who will love him. And none of them do the job to his liking so he has to move on to the next one. Just like the other novels, we see into his head and get to go through the motions with him. We get to see him pick out his victims, bathe his victims, feed his victims, and than dispose of his victims. Yuck. And the worst, we know one of the girls who becomes his victim!
As far as bad guys go, he's definitely creepy and the whole book I wanted the team to find him and fix the problem, so he can't hurt anymore girls.
A lot of people are mentioning love triangles for this book? Is there one? I won't tell! But yes, Rafe is more in this book and he is nicer around V and he actually seems like he's starting to care. He is always so aloof and keeps to himself, it’s hard to really ever know what the guy is thinking. Yes, he and V do share a bond since their abilities connect them, and they relate to each other. Am I Team Rafe or Team Jay? I honestly don't know. I like them both in their own ways.
Does the team catch the killer? Before its too late? Does Violet ever have a normal life? With normal friends, a normal family, and a normal boyfriend? Of should she just accept that she's different.
The Last Echo is the best in the series this far and I can't wait to see what Derting has in store for us next.
Overall: Loved it! I read it all in one sitting! I just can't believe how good these books are! There is just something about them that amazes me. Violet is such a likable character and I'm always rooting for her. And than all the new characters thrown in, are so wonderful and independent and mysterious! Loved this one!
Cover: Adorable! All these covers are very pretty! Love the purple!
What I'd Give It: 5/5 Cupcakes
__________
Review Based On Hardcover Edition
Taken From Princess Bookie
www.princessbookie.com
We are back with Violet who can see imprints. Remember, she can see the imprints of dead people on the killers bodies. Jay, her super cool boyfriend is also around throughout the novel. He is there to help Violet get through life with her special abilities.
Violet is working with a group of people who have similar abilities to hers. There is Sam, Sarah, Rafe, Gemma, and Krystal. Each person contributes to the group in their own way.
The Last Echo has a few bad guys dipped in. First, there is James Nu, who killed his whole family. He and Violet run into each other and he takes a liking to her, and is drawn to her. Yuck.
Than, there is the main bad guy. I won't say his name but he is known as The Girlfriend Collector, creepy much? His goal is to find a girl who will love him. And none of them do the job to his liking so he has to move on to the next one. Just like the other novels, we see into his head and get to go through the motions with him. We get to see him pick out his victims, bathe his victims, feed his victims, and than dispose of his victims. Yuck. And the worst, we know one of the girls who becomes his victim!
As far as bad guys go, he's definitely creepy and the whole book I wanted the team to find him and fix the problem, so he can't hurt anymore girls.
A lot of people are mentioning love triangles for this book? Is there one? I won't tell! But yes, Rafe is more in this book and he is nicer around V and he actually seems like he's starting to care. He is always so aloof and keeps to himself, it’s hard to really ever know what the guy is thinking. Yes, he and V do share a bond since their abilities connect them, and they relate to each other. Am I Team Rafe or Team Jay? I honestly don't know. I like them both in their own ways.
Does the team catch the killer? Before its too late? Does Violet ever have a normal life? With normal friends, a normal family, and a normal boyfriend? Of should she just accept that she's different.
The Last Echo is the best in the series this far and I can't wait to see what Derting has in store for us next.
Overall: Loved it! I read it all in one sitting! I just can't believe how good these books are! There is just something about them that amazes me. Violet is such a likable character and I'm always rooting for her. And than all the new characters thrown in, are so wonderful and independent and mysterious! Loved this one!
Cover: Adorable! All these covers are very pretty! Love the purple!
What I'd Give It: 5/5 Cupcakes
__________
Review Based On Hardcover Edition
Taken From Princess Bookie
www.princessbookie.com
January 23, 2019
I’m so 100% done with Violet and her “no one gets me” attitude. If you think the plot is any different from the other two books, well let me break it to you:
IT’S NOT
Violet doesn’t grow up, doesn’t mature, is still a jealous brat, that thinks her parents are evil because they WORRY about her like ANY good parent should. She keeps on thinking about OTHER guy while she is with her boyfriend, saying to herself that all interactions that she has with this other boy is okay because they’re friends, but she’ll immediately turn salty and sour if HER boyfriend is seen talking to ANYTHING that BREATHS. (Hence the 2nd book where she was JEALOUS because Jay had ONE best friend). You know what, I hope she ends up with hurt, mysterious, dark Rafe so Jay can actually enter in a proper, healthy relationship.with someone who hasn’t the emotional age of 6
I forced myself to finish this book because I actually spent money on it, but DEAR LORD, help me! It was a slow torture. Violet still finds a dead body, still likes to go after the killer without telling people about it, still keeps things from her parents and her boyfriend, still thinks she’s SO GROW UP that she can make her own decisions but OH WAIT she almost died in all of those books!
Now, some quick considerations about other characters:
Chelsea is her gorgeous yet very much impolite, narcissistic, rude, annoying and purely cruel, best friend. Gemma is another very much gorgeous, but stuck up, angry, jealous chick. (Like Lisse Adams and Jacqueline, all beautiful horrible girls)Well, it seems like if you’re beautiful you’ll be an ass in this book..
Then the cherry on top is Rafe, the broken boy. A guy who doesn’t respect boundaries or relationships for what matters. He knows Violet is dating Jay, and yet he keep on being “dangerously” close to her, “teasing” her with his smirks and blue eyes. Give me a break.
(If this was reversed and any woman was persistently close to the main male character, everyone would be pissed, saying things like: wow, she’s such aslut inconvenient person. But is Rafe, a hot, dark guy, so it’s okay for him to tease Violet) Excuse me?
I won’t be reading the last book because I just cannot stand a freaking page of Violet Ambrose anymore. It causes me physical pain I'm afraid I will end up punching something or hurling my kindle at something.
I wish I could have my money back together with the wasted time.
IT’S NOT
Violet doesn’t grow up, doesn’t mature, is still a jealous brat, that thinks her parents are evil because they WORRY about her like ANY good parent should. She keeps on thinking about OTHER guy while she is with her boyfriend, saying to herself that all interactions that she has with this other boy is okay because they’re friends, but she’ll immediately turn salty and sour if HER boyfriend is seen talking to ANYTHING that BREATHS. (Hence the 2nd book where she was JEALOUS because Jay had ONE best friend). You know what, I hope she ends up with hurt, mysterious, dark Rafe so Jay can actually enter in a proper, healthy relationship.
I forced myself to finish this book because I actually spent money on it, but DEAR LORD, help me! It was a slow torture. Violet still finds a dead body, still likes to go after the killer without telling people about it, still keeps things from her parents and her boyfriend, still thinks she’s SO GROW UP that she can make her own decisions but OH WAIT she almost died in all of those books!
Now, some quick considerations about other characters:
Chelsea is her gorgeous yet very much impolite, narcissistic, rude, annoying and purely cruel, best friend. Gemma is another very much gorgeous, but stuck up, angry, jealous chick. (Like Lisse Adams and Jacqueline, all beautiful horrible girls)
Then the cherry on top is Rafe, the broken boy. A guy who doesn’t respect boundaries or relationships for what matters. He knows Violet is dating Jay, and yet he keep on being “dangerously” close to her, “teasing” her with his smirks and blue eyes. Give me a break.
(If this was reversed and any woman was persistently close to the main male character, everyone would be pissed, saying things like: wow, she’s such a
I won’t be reading the last book because I just cannot stand a freaking page of Violet Ambrose anymore. It causes me physical pain I'm afraid I will end up punching something or hurling my kindle at something.
I wish I could have my money back together with the wasted time.
April 23, 2012
I LOVED the first book, the second was ok, but now it's time to let it be, another series to go down the drain. Kimberly Derting is great writing the bad guys POV, it's scary, creepy and interesting, but her teenagers are the most annoying bunch, specially Violet in this book, she's always asking obvious questions: "it is not, is it?" He would not, would he?" ANNOYING.
And don't get me started with the organization, men in black is in the house, just ridiculous.
Everything that I loved in the first book wasn't here and everything cliché in every YA book outhere was here.
Love triangle, check.
Convenient absentee parents, check.
Over-analysis of trivial stuff, check.
Over-description on one of the guys participating in the love triangle, check.
Raised eyebrows, check.
Stupid decisions that places the main character in danger, check.
At this rate I'm about to give up on YA.
And don't get me started with the organization, men in black is in the house, just ridiculous.
Everything that I loved in the first book wasn't here and everything cliché in every YA book outhere was here.
Love triangle, check.
Convenient absentee parents, check.
Over-analysis of trivial stuff, check.
Over-description on one of the guys participating in the love triangle, check.
Raised eyebrows, check.
Stupid decisions that places the main character in danger, check.
At this rate I'm about to give up on YA.
April 29, 2022
This series is still going strong. What a crazy heart-thumping ride. And that ominous ending? I think its fair to say that I can barely wait to read the conclusion to this awesome series.
April 17, 2012
There is something so amazing about Kimberly Derting's books. I wish I could say I've come a long way from being the total chicken-sh!t that I am, but really it's all Derting. I love the way she lets the readers connect with each psychopath in each book but she leaves plenty of room for all those lovely romantic moments.
I don't seem to realize how much I actually miss this world till I'm right back in it.
The Last Echo, feels a bit different from the rest of the books, but I actually like the direction it's going, well, for the most part anyways. Violet has finally found a group of people who have uncanny abilities like she does. She feels less alone, apart of something special and even a bit more confident compared to the last one. She's always had Jay of course, but during the events that happened in this book, it felt like something so much bigger that I can see why Violet might want to turn to people who understand her on a different level.
In each book we always get the perspective of Violet and the lunatic that she has to face. In the first book we got the Hunter, the second book we got a Stalker and now we have a Collector. Derting out did herself with this guy, he's off the charts deeply demented and dark, but it's the way he was with his victims that felt so dame unnerving and earned more then it's share of shutter-worthy moments.
I really enjoyed getting to know the team more and learn their abilities, entwining and helping piece together the crimes of this story-line. Fascinating stuff!
But it wasn't all creepy, in fact there were some really sweet moments from Jay and Violet. I wish there were more mind you, but what we got was still pretty awe-worthy.
Jay is one of those characters who is hands down one of the sweetest guys in all the books I've ever read. Hopelessly devoted, supportive and says the things that makes your toes curl and your heart thump. I love how he is with Violet and still think they are such a adorable couple, but Jay feels, I dunno, to supportive maybe. In this book, Violet gets in all sorts of trouble and every time Jay is there to make sure she's okay, but I couln't help wonder throughout those moments; is he gonna freak out this time, or, he's definitely gonna go nuts this time, but he just...doesn't.
Sure he was scared and worried, but he took things to calm and collected. Compared to the Jay we first meet, I guess I was expecting him to, well, freak the hell out on her. In that firm, commanding but gentle and loving way of his. I'm not saying that he's changed for the worse or anything, but it almost feels like Jay is afraid to fight her on anything that goes on with her 'new' life and he's doing what ever it takes to make sure she keeps him in it. I'm torn between wanting Jay to man-up and keep him this ever so loving support-system that Violet so desperately needs.
As for the whole Rafe/Jay/Violet thing? I've always considered myself a pretty easy going reader. I'm probably one of the very few readers on GR that don't even mind conflicting love triangles. Always thought it brought the perfect amount of intense attention to any read and I like seeing who the characters ends up choosing in the end. BUT! This is one of those books, or should I say series, where a love triangle isn't gonna work. See, we, the readers, or at least me, are already in love with Jay Heaton and no one will ever be good enough to fill his shoes!
To be fair, there isn't technically a love triangle in this one and I sure hope it stays that way. But it still reads like something potential could happen and at this point even a maybe still hurts like hell to even fathom.
It did make me feel better when Violet always made sure to add little hints of reassurance scattered along the way that Jay is indeed the only one for her. But still, there is something deeper going on between Rafe and Violet and all those dame tingling feelings. As much as I hate it, I'm curious to see what that's all about. And I'm also curious about that threat at the very end. Didn't see that coming and it makes me want the next book that much quicker!
All in all, I thought this was a really great installment in the Body Finder series. I liked the new characters and every Jay and Violet moment still brings a warm happy feeling in my heart.
Can't wait to see what Derting has in store for us next!
I don't seem to realize how much I actually miss this world till I'm right back in it.
The Last Echo, feels a bit different from the rest of the books, but I actually like the direction it's going, well, for the most part anyways. Violet has finally found a group of people who have uncanny abilities like she does. She feels less alone, apart of something special and even a bit more confident compared to the last one. She's always had Jay of course, but during the events that happened in this book, it felt like something so much bigger that I can see why Violet might want to turn to people who understand her on a different level.
In each book we always get the perspective of Violet and the lunatic that she has to face. In the first book we got the Hunter, the second book we got a Stalker and now we have a Collector. Derting out did herself with this guy, he's off the charts deeply demented and dark, but it's the way he was with his victims that felt so dame unnerving and earned more then it's share of shutter-worthy moments.
I really enjoyed getting to know the team more and learn their abilities, entwining and helping piece together the crimes of this story-line. Fascinating stuff!
But it wasn't all creepy, in fact there were some really sweet moments from Jay and Violet. I wish there were more mind you, but what we got was still pretty awe-worthy.
Jay is one of those characters who is hands down one of the sweetest guys in all the books I've ever read. Hopelessly devoted, supportive and says the things that makes your toes curl and your heart thump. I love how he is with Violet and still think they are such a adorable couple, but Jay feels, I dunno, to supportive maybe. In this book, Violet gets in all sorts of trouble and every time Jay is there to make sure she's okay, but I couln't help wonder throughout those moments; is he gonna freak out this time, or, he's definitely gonna go nuts this time, but he just...doesn't.
Sure he was scared and worried, but he took things to calm and collected. Compared to the Jay we first meet, I guess I was expecting him to, well, freak the hell out on her. In that firm, commanding but gentle and loving way of his. I'm not saying that he's changed for the worse or anything, but it almost feels like Jay is afraid to fight her on anything that goes on with her 'new' life and he's doing what ever it takes to make sure she keeps him in it. I'm torn between wanting Jay to man-up and keep him this ever so loving support-system that Violet so desperately needs.
As for the whole Rafe/Jay/Violet thing? I've always considered myself a pretty easy going reader. I'm probably one of the very few readers on GR that don't even mind conflicting love triangles. Always thought it brought the perfect amount of intense attention to any read and I like seeing who the characters ends up choosing in the end. BUT! This is one of those books, or should I say series, where a love triangle isn't gonna work. See, we, the readers, or at least me, are already in love with Jay Heaton and no one will ever be good enough to fill his shoes!
To be fair, there isn't technically a love triangle in this one and I sure hope it stays that way. But it still reads like something potential could happen and at this point even a maybe still hurts like hell to even fathom.
It did make me feel better when Violet always made sure to add little hints of reassurance scattered along the way that Jay is indeed the only one for her. But still, there is something deeper going on between Rafe and Violet and all those dame tingling feelings. As much as I hate it, I'm curious to see what that's all about. And I'm also curious about that threat at the very end. Didn't see that coming and it makes me want the next book that much quicker!
All in all, I thought this was a really great installment in the Body Finder series. I liked the new characters and every Jay and Violet moment still brings a warm happy feeling in my heart.
Can't wait to see what Derting has in store for us next!
March 6, 2015
This is my first comment ever on Goodreads!
I never felt the urge to express my opinion about any book... until today. Which is weird because I finished "The last echo" several days ago. Even weirder is the fact that I actually DREAMT of the book last night! THIS. IS. CRAZY. It was a ho-rri-ble nightmare. Which says a lot about how much I disliked the book (for it to have such an impact on my conscience...)
I agree with people who think we should not judge a book by its romance. I really do. But there is no help, I absolutely can't deny it: the reason why "The body finder", first book in the series, became one of my favourite books of all time, has a LOT to do with their leading couple, if not everything. I don't even know the right words to describe my love for Violet and Jay. But mainly, I love their awesome chemistry, how they can be both sweet and intensely in love, how they genuinely care for each other, to the point that their love seems almost unquestionable.
Obviously, I've had enough of all the love triangles in young adult books, which is why this couple represents (represented?) my last hope for something real, simple and beautiful. I must have been a fool while reading the second book, for not sensing Rafe coming.
To say that I hate Rafe would be a lie. I mean, how can you hate a character which is described as sexy and dark and mysterious? It's like, by definition, he is meant to be loved, adored, whatever. Rafe is one of those many bad boys in the young adult books who, quite perversely though not uncomprehendingly, make all girls swoon over their tortured and badass looks. Adding to these charming traits the fact he has super powers, which allows him to be the super hero Violet can always count on.
Kimberly Derting really wants us to rate Rafe as a better suitor for the role of boyfriend.
If there is one person I should blame for all this mess anyway, it sure is Violet. She claims all along to love Jay, to need him, blah-blah-blah... She even makes sure that he firmly believes how much she can't live without him (insert quote here), only to betray him by feeling something for Rafe. I can almost hear her say "It's not my fault that I feel something! I can't explain it myself!", which makes me want to smack her head even more. God, I really hate her at the moment.
Also, I can't understand why she doesn't choose to trust her family and friends more with her ability. I had to sigh of frustration all the time because of her, until she finally understood that her reckless and selfish behavior was hurting them.
Most of all, I can't bear how the romance between Rafe and Violet is thrown at us from no where. It feels like some cosmic power forces us to acknowledge the attraction between them. We understand later that it is Rafe's ability that is responsible for those annoying sparks flying each time they are touching... It's like there isn't actually any reason for a Rafe/Violet romance except for this inexplicable physical attraction which, if I remember well, was there from the very beginning of their acquaintance, as if to say Rafe and Violet are meant for each other. That Violet actually likes the electrical feeling makes me cry in despair.
Thanks to Kimberly, Violet and Jay's love story is RUINED.
These two used to hold such a special place in my heart... not so much anymore. The reason being I don't believe Violet actually deserves Jay anymore.
Although Jay's appearances are frequent, they are all useless to the development of the story. Somehow, they are only here to remind you that he's still alive, as supportive and as nice as ever... like a speaker who says "Remember that adorable dude who's head over heels for Violet?"
Anyway, it doesn't matter because the result is the same: Jay's character has been completely trampled on.
The only thing I looked forward to in the story was the insight to the girlfriend collector's mind. I was surprised at how sorry I felt for him despite everything. In the end, since it used to be one of my favourite series, I rated the book with two stars.
Now, all I have to do is pray that Kimberly Derting takes pity on Jay fans like me, and decides to write a sequel worthy of my forgiveness, hopefully something that can heal my broken heart.
Until then, the feeling of betrayal won't subside.
I never felt the urge to express my opinion about any book... until today. Which is weird because I finished "The last echo" several days ago. Even weirder is the fact that I actually DREAMT of the book last night! THIS. IS. CRAZY. It was a ho-rri-ble nightmare. Which says a lot about how much I disliked the book (for it to have such an impact on my conscience...)
I agree with people who think we should not judge a book by its romance. I really do. But there is no help, I absolutely can't deny it: the reason why "The body finder", first book in the series, became one of my favourite books of all time, has a LOT to do with their leading couple, if not everything. I don't even know the right words to describe my love for Violet and Jay. But mainly, I love their awesome chemistry, how they can be both sweet and intensely in love, how they genuinely care for each other, to the point that their love seems almost unquestionable.
Obviously, I've had enough of all the love triangles in young adult books, which is why this couple represents (represented?) my last hope for something real, simple and beautiful. I must have been a fool while reading the second book, for not sensing Rafe coming.
To say that I hate Rafe would be a lie. I mean, how can you hate a character which is described as sexy and dark and mysterious? It's like, by definition, he is meant to be loved, adored, whatever. Rafe is one of those many bad boys in the young adult books who, quite perversely though not uncomprehendingly, make all girls swoon over their tortured and badass looks. Adding to these charming traits the fact he has super powers, which allows him to be the super hero Violet can always count on.
Kimberly Derting really wants us to rate Rafe as a better suitor for the role of boyfriend.
If there is one person I should blame for all this mess anyway, it sure is Violet. She claims all along to love Jay, to need him, blah-blah-blah... She even makes sure that he firmly believes how much she can't live without him (insert quote here), only to betray him by feeling something for Rafe. I can almost hear her say "It's not my fault that I feel something! I can't explain it myself!", which makes me want to smack her head even more. God, I really hate her at the moment.
Also, I can't understand why she doesn't choose to trust her family and friends more with her ability. I had to sigh of frustration all the time because of her, until she finally understood that her reckless and selfish behavior was hurting them.
Most of all, I can't bear how the romance between Rafe and Violet is thrown at us from no where. It feels like some cosmic power forces us to acknowledge the attraction between them. We understand later that it is Rafe's ability that is responsible for those annoying sparks flying each time they are touching... It's like there isn't actually any reason for a Rafe/Violet romance except for this inexplicable physical attraction which, if I remember well, was there from the very beginning of their acquaintance, as if to say Rafe and Violet are meant for each other. That Violet actually likes the electrical feeling makes me cry in despair.
Thanks to Kimberly, Violet and Jay's love story is RUINED.
These two used to hold such a special place in my heart... not so much anymore. The reason being I don't believe Violet actually deserves Jay anymore.
Although Jay's appearances are frequent, they are all useless to the development of the story. Somehow, they are only here to remind you that he's still alive, as supportive and as nice as ever... like a speaker who says "Remember that adorable dude who's head over heels for Violet?"
Anyway, it doesn't matter because the result is the same: Jay's character has been completely trampled on.
The only thing I looked forward to in the story was the insight to the girlfriend collector's mind. I was surprised at how sorry I felt for him despite everything. In the end, since it used to be one of my favourite series, I rated the book with two stars.
Now, all I have to do is pray that Kimberly Derting takes pity on Jay fans like me, and decides to write a sequel worthy of my forgiveness, hopefully something that can heal my broken heart.
Until then, the feeling of betrayal won't subside.
October 1, 2012
Violet has a strange ability to sense the echoes of dead bodies and the imprints on their killers. Feeling shunned her whole life due to her ability, she’s recently joined a special investigative team of teenagers with powers to solve crimes. Will Violet feel like she finally belongs?
The Last Echo is the third in The Body Finder series which delves into Violet’s struggles in fitting with a new group, a looming love triangle with her boyfriend Jay and the mysterious Rafe, and a serial killer on the loose dubbed ‘the girlfriend collector’. I don’t usually read series out of order but I had to read the first in the Body Finder series for a review. I found the book to be strangely compelling in a way, it’s about a sick serial killer that collects girlfriends by kidnapping them and keeping them in a dark room.
It interchanges Violet’s thoughts with chilling chapters from the serial killers perspective. I found these brief interludes incredibly disturbing and creepy, and a breather from all the teen drama occupying Violets life. The girlfriend collector is not someone everyone can stomach, as he’s incredibly twisted and dark. The novel doesn’t only describe the crime, but delves into the mind of a serial killer.
Continued here.... Check out Happy Indulgence for more reviews!
Check out my Happy Indulgence Blog for more reviews!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The Last Echo is the third in The Body Finder series which delves into Violet’s struggles in fitting with a new group, a looming love triangle with her boyfriend Jay and the mysterious Rafe, and a serial killer on the loose dubbed ‘the girlfriend collector’. I don’t usually read series out of order but I had to read the first in the Body Finder series for a review. I found the book to be strangely compelling in a way, it’s about a sick serial killer that collects girlfriends by kidnapping them and keeping them in a dark room.
It interchanges Violet’s thoughts with chilling chapters from the serial killers perspective. I found these brief interludes incredibly disturbing and creepy, and a breather from all the teen drama occupying Violets life. The girlfriend collector is not someone everyone can stomach, as he’s incredibly twisted and dark. The novel doesn’t only describe the crime, but delves into the mind of a serial killer.
Continued here.... Check out Happy Indulgence for more reviews!
Check out my Happy Indulgence Blog for more reviews!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2012
Loved it! I like the fact that there was the killer's profile and how he became like that.And what I like the most is the information about Rafe and Sara. I just don't like the fact that Rafe likes Violet, he should have someone else. Anyway, I can't wait for the third book, so freaking hard to wait for next year!
November 15, 2012
Thanks Kimberly Derting, HarperCollins Publishing and Goodreads for allowing me the opportunity to read this book!!! Enough of that stuff - let me get on with this review , it took my weeks to finish this book which says a lot.
So Violet works for a government group to catch murderers. When a female is missing, Violet and the group latch on to a murderer called the "Girlfriend Collector" a sadistic , handsome, creep who kills in the name of love. So this blessed chick, Violet can see the imprints of murder on people's skin. Each murderer has their own tune that plays forever 24/7 , nonstop. How is that for annoying? Think of hearing Lady Gaga in your head all day. I would bury MYSELF in an ice box. Teehee, if you read the book you would know!
Finally, done with that boring mandatory summary, let's get to my favorite part. Where I beginto make fun of review the novel.
"Then she felt his lips move against hers, and she closed her eyes, when he whispered,"I wish I could make things better, I wish I could stop you from hurting(p.43)."
Yep, that's when my Cheese Radar went up, pretty quick eh? "Oh that type of story, thanks for giving me the heads up - 43 pages into the novel". So basically I get the picture that she is a Mary Sue and there is a lover involved since it happens to be YA fiction , so I'll bet on a love triangle.
About 50-something pages later, another sentence leapt out at me.
"The closer she got to Seattle, the more Violet questioned what she was about to do (111)."
I burst out laughing.
That sentence is the summary of The Last Echo.
Violet is a wallflower, point blank - who is always "questioning". She spends half the story walking around like a confused Prophecy child ,"Who am I, what am I - should I- should I not?"I wanted to love her character, but I got nothing. no heart pumping, no fast page flipping to read more about her. none of the warm fuzzy feelings, instead I just felt detached. Violet didn't have any flaws what-so-ever. Impossible right? Not, this girl was a blank slate, she the good girl, the girl who always hesitated , the girl who always regretted. I just wanted to slap her hard and grab her shoulders and say "woman get yourself together , be a little bit more wild!"
If that's what Derting was going for, she passed - with "flying colors."
Sadly, I didn't like Violet..........................or her friends - though the premise of the novel along with the black cover and purple flower was so dang great. My favorite parts focused on the murderer's whereabouts and life as Violet went around questioning and being the perfect girl. It was very refreshing and looking through his eyes as he misinterpreted his victims body language to the point of basically craziness.
"She thrashed wildly , her body convulsing beside him and he wondered if she was trying to get closer to him. They always did (p.66)"
Ummm... good luck with that mister. But I did enjoy that view of the story, the murderer had more of a personality and a background than every other character combined. Also, I'll let you know - The Last Echo took so long to get to the point where Violet is dilly-dallying around and catches the murderer's eye.It took till 75% of the book was over! Ohhhhh, Derting, oh Derting. You really know how to draw out a story!
And Rafe, the (clearly going to start a love triangle, sigh). Rafe is the bad cliche boy who the story revolves around. Guess his hobbies!
If you guessed driving a motorcycle , moodiness , hates being closed to people and wearing leather. Well holy freaking cow! You are correct. A bad boy in leather, where have I not seen that before. Violet wonders if Rafe has a "thing" for her through half the story - which he obviously does. Did I forget to tell you she has a boyfriend , a perfect sweet boyfriend (as perfect as the flat character boyfriend can get).
My favorite part of the novel was the ending. No - not the white blank pages at the end, I'm not being cheeky. I loved the ending! It was surprising enough for me to give it 2 stars from "meh" to "okay". The ending I would have never expected , it was haunting and reminded me of how people shouldn't be so judgmental , no matter what. Why did it take so long to pick up? If you loved the first two books and feel an attachment to Violet's character, you will certainly be interested and shocked, maybe a little saddened by the third (after you get past the 75% of the novel).
So Violet works for a government group to catch murderers. When a female is missing, Violet and the group latch on to a murderer called the "Girlfriend Collector" a sadistic , handsome, creep who kills in the name of love. So this blessed chick, Violet can see the imprints of murder on people's skin. Each murderer has their own tune that plays forever 24/7 , nonstop. How is that for annoying? Think of hearing Lady Gaga in your head all day. I would bury MYSELF in an ice box. Teehee, if you read the book you would know!
Finally, done with that boring mandatory summary, let's get to my favorite part. Where I begin
"Then she felt his lips move against hers, and she closed her eyes, when he whispered,"I wish I could make things better, I wish I could stop you from hurting(p.43)."
Yep, that's when my Cheese Radar went up, pretty quick eh? "Oh that type of story, thanks for giving me the heads up - 43 pages into the novel". So basically I get the picture that she is a Mary Sue and there is a lover involved since it happens to be YA fiction , so I'll bet on a love triangle.
About 50-something pages later, another sentence leapt out at me.
"The closer she got to Seattle, the more Violet questioned what she was about to do (111)."
I burst out laughing.
That sentence is the summary of The Last Echo.
Violet is a wallflower, point blank - who is always "questioning". She spends half the story walking around like a confused Prophecy child ,"Who am I, what am I - should I- should I not?"I wanted to love her character, but I got nothing. no heart pumping, no fast page flipping to read more about her. none of the warm fuzzy feelings, instead I just felt detached. Violet didn't have any flaws what-so-ever. Impossible right? Not, this girl was a blank slate, she the good girl, the girl who always hesitated , the girl who always regretted. I just wanted to slap her hard and grab her shoulders and say "woman get yourself together , be a little bit more wild!"
If that's what Derting was going for, she passed - with "flying colors."
Sadly, I didn't like Violet..........................or her friends - though the premise of the novel along with the black cover and purple flower was so dang great. My favorite parts focused on the murderer's whereabouts and life as Violet went around questioning and being the perfect girl. It was very refreshing and looking through his eyes as he misinterpreted his victims body language to the point of basically craziness.
"She thrashed wildly , her body convulsing beside him and he wondered if she was trying to get closer to him. They always did (p.66)"
Ummm... good luck with that mister. But I did enjoy that view of the story, the murderer had more of a personality and a background than every other character combined. Also, I'll let you know - The Last Echo took so long to get to the point where Violet is dilly-dallying around and catches the murderer's eye.It took till 75% of the book was over! Ohhhhh, Derting, oh Derting. You really know how to draw out a story!
And Rafe, the (clearly going to start a love triangle, sigh). Rafe is the bad cliche boy who the story revolves around. Guess his hobbies!
If you guessed driving a motorcycle , moodiness , hates being closed to people and wearing leather. Well holy freaking cow! You are correct. A bad boy in leather, where have I not seen that before. Violet wonders if Rafe has a "thing" for her through half the story - which he obviously does. Did I forget to tell you she has a boyfriend , a perfect sweet boyfriend (as perfect as the flat character boyfriend can get).
My favorite part of the novel was the ending. No - not the white blank pages at the end, I'm not being cheeky. I loved the ending! It was surprising enough for me to give it 2 stars from "meh" to "okay". The ending I would have never expected , it was haunting and reminded me of how people shouldn't be so judgmental , no matter what. Why did it take so long to pick up? If you loved the first two books and feel an attachment to Violet's character, you will certainly be interested and shocked, maybe a little saddened by the third (after you get past the 75% of the novel).
April 4, 2012
My review can also be found on my blog Collections.
May contain minor spoilers.
This was an interesting installment in the Body Finder series. It frustrated me and yet reminded me how much I loved the first book The Body Finder. While I couldn't bring myself to appreciate certain aspects, I think if you're a fan of the events that occurred in the second book Desires of the Dead you'll probably enjoy The Last Echo.
As I mentioned in my review for Desires of the Dead, there were some changes compared to what we read in the first book. Violet was much more secretive and there were new, mysterious characters involved with the FBI. What I hoped in this third book was that Violet would be more open and stop keeping secrets and that we would learn more about the new characters. Only one of those things happened, and I'm not sure I feel all that happy about it. In fact, it was a bit disappointing.
Before I get a little into that I want to mention what I liked about The Last Echo. I thought the creepy stalker-bad guy was way better than the one in Desires of the Dead! It's repetitive and at times very strange, but the chapters from the bad guy's POV is what I think stands out the most in the Body Finder novels. It's the one thing that I don't mind stays consistent in the series. Another thing I liked in this book, for the most part, was Jay. Jay was still the perfect boyfriend! He's such a great guy, and he continues to be my favorite character in the series. I wish there was more good stuff I could say about Jay, but I have to admit his role or lack thereof was part of the reason why I felt bummed about The Last Echo.
While I liked whenever there were Jay scenes, I don't think having a character be the supportive boyfriend ALL the time is a good thing. What I usually see in books with characters like this is that they aren't as important to the story later on, resulting in less page-time. That's what I felt happened to Jay. He became a background character who is just there to support and eventually agree with everything his girlfriend says or does. Some girls need to be challenged, and Violet is definitely one of them. I didn't like how she basically had free rein in their relationship. She's allowed to do whatever she wants, but the moment Jay does something, she's gets angry and jealous. It REALLY bothered me.
But I think the main purpose of having less Jay was to give the other guy Rafe time to shine and to develop a love-triangle. I had a feeling there would be something after reading Desires of the Dead, but I was really hoping I was wrong and that the series wouldn't go that route. The love-triangle (and the decisiveness that goes along with it) was the most disappointing aspect of The Last Echo. I wasn't convinced by it one bit. I think I would have been able to deal with an irritating Violet if there wasn't this whole thing with Rafe. I honestly don't understand what the point is if she's going to be with Jay anyway. But maybe that's me. I just don't think a love-triangle is needed to make a romance interesting, and most of the time it ruins the characters and story for me. And that's basically what happened with The Last Echo.
Like I said before, if you enjoyed Desires of the Dead or Rafe or even love-triangles, you'll most likely enjoy The Last Echo. As for me, The Body Finder will always be my favorite book in the series. I wouldn't mind giving the final book (at least I think it's the last one) in the series a chance, but I think I'm going to have to wait and see what others think before I give it a read.
August 17, 2012
I'll get to the point: This book was boring.
The plot was predictable, there was a love triangle, and not even an interesting one, and there were so many pointless scenes. At one point, Violet and Jay spend what felt like 50 pages in a park and nothing happens there. They push Violet's cousins on the swings. Violet has a minor revelation about her mother. Yawn.
Rafe: I think, given half a chance, Rafe could be a really interesting character. He just doesn't lend himself to being a supporting one. Most of his MO is that he's quiet and withdrawn and damaged, and doesn't trust anybody. I don't mind that, but it works better from the inside. Give him his own story, told from his point of view. This is Violet's story, but in this book it seemed like she had almost nothing to do.
I feel kind of guilty giving such a bad review, because I have liked this series so far. I am glad I finished it. The only reason this gets two stars instead of one is that something happened at the very end that I thought was a really cool, although not entirely unexpected, plot twist.
Still, I'm done.
The plot was predictable, there was a love triangle, and not even an interesting one, and there were so many pointless scenes. At one point, Violet and Jay spend what felt like 50 pages in a park and nothing happens there. They push Violet's cousins on the swings. Violet has a minor revelation about her mother. Yawn.
Rafe: I think, given half a chance, Rafe could be a really interesting character. He just doesn't lend himself to being a supporting one. Most of his MO is that he's quiet and withdrawn and damaged, and doesn't trust anybody. I don't mind that, but it works better from the inside. Give him his own story, told from his point of view. This is Violet's story, but in this book it seemed like she had almost nothing to do.
I feel kind of guilty giving such a bad review, because I have liked this series so far. I am glad I finished it. The only reason this gets two stars instead of one is that something happened at the very end that I thought was a really cool, although not entirely unexpected, plot twist.
Still, I'm done.
Read
July 24, 2015I was really nervous about this one. The bad guy was hands down the worse one so far. Creepy lilac fingernail polish! I don't think I can wear purple on my nails ever again. Kimberly really upped the heebie jeebie factor this time. (Shudder) Great read!
August 7, 2012
I just finished Desires of the Dead today, I'm dying for this book to come out!
July 5, 2023
While I’m interested in exactly who Violet and the others are being monitored by, this felt like the weakest of the series to date.
Violet is trying to come to terms with her new role and she is torn between Jay, who we know she loves as she keeps telling us, and Rafe, who is slowly letting her in. She’s increasingly finding out what she can do, but is caught up in some cases that hit a little close to home.
Serial killer who manages to find her ridiculously easily, but who makes silly mistakes so she survives. Some truly nasty people. And some who appear good but who have hearts of stone.
Of course I’ll read book four but only so I can see how it finishes.
Violet is trying to come to terms with her new role and she is torn between Jay, who we know she loves as she keeps telling us, and Rafe, who is slowly letting her in. She’s increasingly finding out what she can do, but is caught up in some cases that hit a little close to home.
Serial killer who manages to find her ridiculously easily, but who makes silly mistakes so she survives. Some truly nasty people. And some who appear good but who have hearts of stone.
Of course I’ll read book four but only so I can see how it finishes.
April 12, 2012
Okay, I’m going to get right to it. If you haven’t read the first two books in
The Body Finder
series, beware that there may be spoilers ahead for those books. I’ll try not to include spoilers, but I can’t promise that something I don’t think is a spoiler for the other books won’t seem spoilery to you. My apologies in advance. You have been warned. :0)
I won my signed copy of Desires of the Dead from the author herself, but I hadn’t really heard much about the series until that point. Of course, I had to go out and buy the first installment because I’m neurotic and can’t read a series out of order. (I wouldn’t want to, anyway, but that’s beside the point.) Anyway, the books hooked me from the very beginning, so to say that this latest book is my favorite yet should really tell you something.
For one thing, the writing – and the story in general – just gets better with each new book this author releases. (If murder-mysteries aren’t your cup of tea, check out her dystopian series, The Pledge .) The writing isn’t fluffy, but it flows so smoothly and keeps you so enthralled with the story that you don’t have a chance to form any expectations about what’s going to happen next.
But Violet’s unusual gift does leave a lot of room for unpredictable situations. And so does her behavior. Violet has remarkable instincts, but she’s impulsive…always rushing into things, usually without a moment’s hesitation to collect her bearings. But she’s determined, resolute in her need to end the recently departed’s suffering by finding their killers. And now she’s working closely with a secret organization that wants to put her skills to good use.
I was afraid for Jay and Violet’s oh-so-sweet relationship, knowing that Violet would be working closely with Rafe on the cases, especially since there seems to be something electric between them, but I needn’t have worried so much. Admittedly, there is still the potential for a love triangle, but it’s not seedy and off-putting like so many out there. The Last Echo gives the reader a much better view of Rafe than the few short glances we were given of him in Desires of the Dead, and from what I saw, I generally liked the guy. Don’t get me wrong…I still love Jay and hope that things remain carefree and lovey-dovey between him and Vi, but should Violet give Rafe more than a cursory glance and decide to take a chance on him, I wouldn’t be distraught. Rafe is deep and troubled and I honestly believe he needs Violet to make him whole again.
Speaking of troubled, the case in this installment is probably the creepiest Violet’s encountered yet, and she’s seen a lot of weirdness already. This time around, she’s trying to help catch a serial killer called The Girlfriend Collector and prevent him from killing again by determining his next target. But, as per usual, Violet’s involvement in the case has put her directly in the line of sight of the murderer, and if Violet doesn’t figure him out quickly, she may become his next victim.
I love all of the characters in this series, but Derting has a real knack for creating sinister, disturbing villains with well-developed motivations and backgrounds. I love the dual narrative of these novels, as well, switching the perspective from that of Violet to the inner-workings of the killer’s mind. Seeing things through the eyes of a murderer really increases the creep-factor.
Fast-paced and hair-raisingly intense, this novel kept me engrossed and inspired any number of frightening dreams. And I’ll never look at lilac nail polish the same. The author has set the bar high for herself and for the next novel in the series, but I have no doubt she’ll surpass my expectations.
This review can also be found at The Starry-Eyed Revue.
Thanks to the Southern Book Bloggers for allowing me to review this title as part of The Last Echo ARC Tour.
I won my signed copy of Desires of the Dead from the author herself, but I hadn’t really heard much about the series until that point. Of course, I had to go out and buy the first installment because I’m neurotic and can’t read a series out of order. (I wouldn’t want to, anyway, but that’s beside the point.) Anyway, the books hooked me from the very beginning, so to say that this latest book is my favorite yet should really tell you something.
For one thing, the writing – and the story in general – just gets better with each new book this author releases. (If murder-mysteries aren’t your cup of tea, check out her dystopian series, The Pledge .) The writing isn’t fluffy, but it flows so smoothly and keeps you so enthralled with the story that you don’t have a chance to form any expectations about what’s going to happen next.
But Violet’s unusual gift does leave a lot of room for unpredictable situations. And so does her behavior. Violet has remarkable instincts, but she’s impulsive…always rushing into things, usually without a moment’s hesitation to collect her bearings. But she’s determined, resolute in her need to end the recently departed’s suffering by finding their killers. And now she’s working closely with a secret organization that wants to put her skills to good use.
I was afraid for Jay and Violet’s oh-so-sweet relationship, knowing that Violet would be working closely with Rafe on the cases, especially since there seems to be something electric between them, but I needn’t have worried so much. Admittedly, there is still the potential for a love triangle, but it’s not seedy and off-putting like so many out there. The Last Echo gives the reader a much better view of Rafe than the few short glances we were given of him in Desires of the Dead, and from what I saw, I generally liked the guy. Don’t get me wrong…I still love Jay and hope that things remain carefree and lovey-dovey between him and Vi, but should Violet give Rafe more than a cursory glance and decide to take a chance on him, I wouldn’t be distraught. Rafe is deep and troubled and I honestly believe he needs Violet to make him whole again.
Speaking of troubled, the case in this installment is probably the creepiest Violet’s encountered yet, and she’s seen a lot of weirdness already. This time around, she’s trying to help catch a serial killer called The Girlfriend Collector and prevent him from killing again by determining his next target. But, as per usual, Violet’s involvement in the case has put her directly in the line of sight of the murderer, and if Violet doesn’t figure him out quickly, she may become his next victim.
I love all of the characters in this series, but Derting has a real knack for creating sinister, disturbing villains with well-developed motivations and backgrounds. I love the dual narrative of these novels, as well, switching the perspective from that of Violet to the inner-workings of the killer’s mind. Seeing things through the eyes of a murderer really increases the creep-factor.
Fast-paced and hair-raisingly intense, this novel kept me engrossed and inspired any number of frightening dreams. And I’ll never look at lilac nail polish the same. The author has set the bar high for herself and for the next novel in the series, but I have no doubt she’ll surpass my expectations.
This review can also be found at The Starry-Eyed Revue.
Thanks to the Southern Book Bloggers for allowing me to review this title as part of The Last Echo ARC Tour.
February 22, 2015
At a Glance:
Kimberly Derting doesn't just do it again, she does it bigger, better, scarier, and more intensely than before! The Last Echo was exhilarating and nerve-wracking, keeping you constantly on your toes and holding your breath the whole time!
So How Did This One Compare?
I adored The Body Finder, and really liked Desires of the Dead. I think The Last Echo was every bit as good as book one. It had a different feel than The Body Finder, though. It was much creepier and darker. While I thought The Body Finder was mostly fun and light with some creepy thrown in there, The Last Echo was the opposite. I can't say that I liked one way more than the other, I just really enjoyed them both.
About the Creepy:
Wow!! This book!! I was seriously holding my breath 4/5 of the time!! I kept expecting some horrible thing to happen at every possible moment. Kim did an amazing job of building the suspense! It was like one of those horror movies where the music builds and the main character turns around slowly, and you know she about to be stabbed in the face or something, but then a cat jumps out of the closet, and you finally breathe. Of course, at some point.....it's not a cat anymore, and then you want to scream, DON'T OPEN THE FREAKING DOOR!!! PAY ATTENTION TO THE SIGNS!! WHY ARE YOU ALONE??!! You'd think that Violet, after being attacked by crazies multiple times, would know this, and that she would also learn kung fu, but no. Instead she makes me have a panic attack, worrying about what's going to happen next. And I must mention the sections from psycho-killer. Like in the other books, Kim writes some sections from the killer's point of view. This killer was crazier, freakier and more insane than he predecessors. I have to say, I'm not sure I'd want to meet Ms. Derting in a dark alley.....this woman has a little too much insight into the mind of this crazy man.
Did the Romance Hold Up?
I was a little worried that I'd be completely sick of Jay by this time. I mean, I love the guy, and I love him and Violet together, they're seriously the cutest couple ever. But after awhile, I tend to get bored with couples that are all lovey-dovey. I think that's why I loved Rafe so much in this book. I love that he brought some tension to the relationship, and some questioning. I know some people don't like a love triangle, but I seriously liked both of these guys, and I think Kim pulled it off fantastically! If I were Violet, I just don't know what I'd do!!
Book 4?
While this book definitely had it's own arc, the ending left a BIG FAT OPENING for another book! I'm so excited about this! Especially considering the direction it looks like it may go in, and the fact that there will probably be a whole lot more Rafe tension!! The only problem is, if the series continues to get scarier and scarier, I may not have any fingernails left by the time it's over! Book 4 is set to release some time in 2013, which is forever away and I can't wait!!
Will I Buy It?
Um, yes. It will join my other two beautiful hard cover copies. You should buy it too! Speaking of pretty covers, check out what Kim had to say about her covers in her guest post!
Book Doppelgangers:
Clarity by Kim Harrington, The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson
-Andye
Readingteen.net
Content:
Profanity: Moderate/Heavy
Sexual Content: Mild
Violence: Heavy
For more details, check out The Last Echo on Parentalbookreviews.com
Kimberly Derting doesn't just do it again, she does it bigger, better, scarier, and more intensely than before! The Last Echo was exhilarating and nerve-wracking, keeping you constantly on your toes and holding your breath the whole time!
So How Did This One Compare?
I adored The Body Finder, and really liked Desires of the Dead. I think The Last Echo was every bit as good as book one. It had a different feel than The Body Finder, though. It was much creepier and darker. While I thought The Body Finder was mostly fun and light with some creepy thrown in there, The Last Echo was the opposite. I can't say that I liked one way more than the other, I just really enjoyed them both.
About the Creepy:
Wow!! This book!! I was seriously holding my breath 4/5 of the time!! I kept expecting some horrible thing to happen at every possible moment. Kim did an amazing job of building the suspense! It was like one of those horror movies where the music builds and the main character turns around slowly, and you know she about to be stabbed in the face or something, but then a cat jumps out of the closet, and you finally breathe. Of course, at some point.....it's not a cat anymore, and then you want to scream, DON'T OPEN THE FREAKING DOOR!!! PAY ATTENTION TO THE SIGNS!! WHY ARE YOU ALONE??!! You'd think that Violet, after being attacked by crazies multiple times, would know this, and that she would also learn kung fu, but no. Instead she makes me have a panic attack, worrying about what's going to happen next. And I must mention the sections from psycho-killer. Like in the other books, Kim writes some sections from the killer's point of view. This killer was crazier, freakier and more insane than he predecessors. I have to say, I'm not sure I'd want to meet Ms. Derting in a dark alley.....this woman has a little too much insight into the mind of this crazy man.
Did the Romance Hold Up?
I was a little worried that I'd be completely sick of Jay by this time. I mean, I love the guy, and I love him and Violet together, they're seriously the cutest couple ever. But after awhile, I tend to get bored with couples that are all lovey-dovey. I think that's why I loved Rafe so much in this book. I love that he brought some tension to the relationship, and some questioning. I know some people don't like a love triangle, but I seriously liked both of these guys, and I think Kim pulled it off fantastically! If I were Violet, I just don't know what I'd do!!
Book 4?
While this book definitely had it's own arc, the ending left a BIG FAT OPENING for another book! I'm so excited about this! Especially considering the direction it looks like it may go in, and the fact that there will probably be a whole lot more Rafe tension!! The only problem is, if the series continues to get scarier and scarier, I may not have any fingernails left by the time it's over! Book 4 is set to release some time in 2013, which is forever away and I can't wait!!
Will I Buy It?
Um, yes. It will join my other two beautiful hard cover copies. You should buy it too! Speaking of pretty covers, check out what Kim had to say about her covers in her guest post!
Book Doppelgangers:
Clarity by Kim Harrington, The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson
-Andye
Readingteen.net
Content:
Profanity: Moderate/Heavy
Sexual Content: Mild
Violence: Heavy
For more details, check out The Last Echo on Parentalbookreviews.com
April 10, 2012
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
If, like me, you were a little underwhelmed by the villain in DESIRES OF THE DEAD, you’ll be glad to know that in Kimberly Derting’s THE LAST ECHO, Violet finds herself once again in the crosshairs of a serial killer. As with the phenomenal debut, I was creeped out and afraid while reading, two emotions that helped make THE BODY FINDER and now THE LAST ECHO such powerful books. I actually found myself anticipating the serial killer POV chapters because they were so well done. Unsettling but fascinating. And the serial killer in THE LAST ECHO is very different from the killer in THE BODY FINDER, so this book felt new and exciting in it’s own right.
While I was glad to see the return of a serial killer to ratchet up the fear factor, I was disappointed by the significantly smaller role Jay played in THE LAST ECHO. I’m all for love triangles and I think Derting handled the very gradual introduction of a new guy for Violet very well, but I fell hard for Jay in the last two books and I missed getting to see him really shine. He just didn’t get the page time or impactful moments I’d been hoping for.
But the diminished role Jay played wasn’t the biggest change in THE LAST ECHO, it was the introduction of the government run psychic teen group that recruits Violet. I kind of don’t know what to make them. It’s an interesting new twist and it does expand the world significantly, but it does so at the expense of the intimate, small town feel that was so much a part of the debut. Lots of people are in on Violet’s secret (in fact almost everyone knows in the book), so we see a different side of Violet’s personality that I ended up finding a little abrasive and even bratty on occasion.
Overall, The Body Finder series is an intriguing one and it packs in more heart palpitating fear than any other YA I’ve read. Big changes are happening that readers will either embrace or shun and I find myself wanting to do both. Don’t let the finality of the title confuse you, THE LAST ECHO is not the last book in The Body Finder series. Kimbery Derting has confirmed there will be at least one more book (currently untitled) due out in 2013. It’s an easy call to add it to my wishlist if only to see more Jay and hopefully a new serial killer too.
Sexual Content:
Kissing
If, like me, you were a little underwhelmed by the villain in DESIRES OF THE DEAD, you’ll be glad to know that in Kimberly Derting’s THE LAST ECHO, Violet finds herself once again in the crosshairs of a serial killer. As with the phenomenal debut, I was creeped out and afraid while reading, two emotions that helped make THE BODY FINDER and now THE LAST ECHO such powerful books. I actually found myself anticipating the serial killer POV chapters because they were so well done. Unsettling but fascinating. And the serial killer in THE LAST ECHO is very different from the killer in THE BODY FINDER, so this book felt new and exciting in it’s own right.
While I was glad to see the return of a serial killer to ratchet up the fear factor, I was disappointed by the significantly smaller role Jay played in THE LAST ECHO. I’m all for love triangles and I think Derting handled the very gradual introduction of a new guy for Violet very well, but I fell hard for Jay in the last two books and I missed getting to see him really shine. He just didn’t get the page time or impactful moments I’d been hoping for.
But the diminished role Jay played wasn’t the biggest change in THE LAST ECHO, it was the introduction of the government run psychic teen group that recruits Violet. I kind of don’t know what to make them. It’s an interesting new twist and it does expand the world significantly, but it does so at the expense of the intimate, small town feel that was so much a part of the debut. Lots of people are in on Violet’s secret (in fact almost everyone knows in the book), so we see a different side of Violet’s personality that I ended up finding a little abrasive and even bratty on occasion.
Overall, The Body Finder series is an intriguing one and it packs in more heart palpitating fear than any other YA I’ve read. Big changes are happening that readers will either embrace or shun and I find myself wanting to do both. Don’t let the finality of the title confuse you, THE LAST ECHO is not the last book in The Body Finder series. Kimbery Derting has confirmed there will be at least one more book (currently untitled) due out in 2013. It’s an easy call to add it to my wishlist if only to see more Jay and hopefully a new serial killer too.
Sexual Content:
Kissing
September 30, 2014
This third installment of THE BODY FINDER series stepped up the intensity a couple notches. This one is my favorite so far.
This time around, the romantic focus between V and Jay are put on hold, as V tries to juggle her double life, and her conflicting feelings for Rafe.
What I enjoyed:
+ The little glimpses of the villain's POV (which adds to the mystery and tension, while providing eerily compelling insight)
+ Revelations of Rafe's past
+ Rafe and Violet moments
+ The darker shift in tone of the book
What I'd like to see in the next book:
+ More information about the people (or person) she's working for – I hope it doesn't turn out to be some kind of government conspiracy, or mad scientist/project-gone-wrong?
+ A shift in relationship dynamic between Jay and Violet. After everything she's been through, if she can just go back to the way she was (more power to her). Unfortunately, I think that's highly unrealistic. She is changing as a person; the tone of the book is getting much darker, more sinister. Her relationship with Jay is safe and comforting. Jay keeps her grounded, she's a part of the real world through him, and he's the sweetest BF ever! His kisses make her toes curl... Get where I'm going with this? It's just TOO perfect! Perfect is BO-RING.
+ I'm rooting for Rafe; he didn't have to be best friends with Violet, or know her since childhood to KNOW her – they just have that connection – that SPARK.
What will probably happen:
+ Violet's traumatic experience is going to bring her and Jay even CLOSER" together, instead of causing a rift in their relationship – because, apparently... Jay is perfect. *sour face*
+ Another traumatic experience for Violet, and a small revelation about the person or people she's working for.
I hope I'm wrong though. In any case, I guess I'll find out soon enough!
This time around, the romantic focus between V and Jay are put on hold, as V tries to juggle her double life, and her conflicting feelings for Rafe.
What I enjoyed:
+ The little glimpses of the villain's POV (which adds to the mystery and tension, while providing eerily compelling insight)
+ Revelations of Rafe's past
+ Rafe and Violet moments
+ The darker shift in tone of the book
What I'd like to see in the next book:
+ More information about the people (or person) she's working for – I hope it doesn't turn out to be some kind of government conspiracy, or mad scientist/project-gone-wrong?
+ A shift in relationship dynamic between Jay and Violet. After everything she's been through, if she can just go back to the way she was (more power to her). Unfortunately, I think that's highly unrealistic. She is changing as a person; the tone of the book is getting much darker, more sinister. Her relationship with Jay is safe and comforting. Jay keeps her grounded, she's a part of the real world through him, and he's the sweetest BF ever! His kisses make her toes curl... Get where I'm going with this? It's just TOO perfect! Perfect is BO-RING.
+ I'm rooting for Rafe; he didn't have to be best friends with Violet, or know her since childhood to KNOW her – they just have that connection – that SPARK.
What will probably happen:
+ Violet's traumatic experience is going to bring her and Jay even CLOSER" together, instead of causing a rift in their relationship – because, apparently... Jay is perfect. *sour face*
+ Another traumatic experience for Violet, and a small revelation about the person or people she's working for.
I hope I'm wrong though. In any case, I guess I'll find out soon enough!
January 19, 2012
Dying for the next Body Finder novel? Well, readers won't be disappointed. The book picks up from the last novel with Violet working in a group to find murderers. Violet and Jay's romance remains sweet and endearing, but now Rafe is thrown into the mix. Rafe makes things more confusing than ever for Violet. She has to interact with him and answer to him for their different assignments. She also has to worry about catching the attention of a murderer who has a sick crush developing.
This novel focuses on The Girlfriend Collector, an evil man who takes women he believes will love him forever...when they don't he decides he no longer needs them around and hunts for the next poor soul. The author will really draw the reader in with this plot line. The reader gets to know one of the victims very well and will feel much more empathy than merely learning of a faceless character dying. If it is possible, the reader also gets to know Violet, Jay, and Rafe much better too. The reader will be rooting for Violet throughout the novel as the suspense deepens the closer she gets to the murderous Girlfriend Collector.
The author is very good at setting the tone of the novel. The reader will finish each chapter and have to continue reading or the last scenes will remain in the back of his/her mind. There is an eerie undertone throughout the novel that spikes in certain key places. The scenes flow together very well, the reader will be fully aware of everything Violet knows and experiences. The ending is surprising, there are many twists the reader may look forward to in this book. The Last Echo is recommended to young adult/teen readers.
November 16, 2012
So, I just read a couple of the anti-Rafe reviews, and I thought the discussion could do with some yay-Rafe!
I think Jay could do with a little competition! Yes, I know, he's dreamy and all perfect and, dare I say it? Maybe a liiiiittle bit boring. Just a little bit. Please don't kill me.
I think a Body Finder series with Violet's man just being a supportive background, would be disappointing. I loved the whole thing Derting came up with, with the team, I thought it was a great twist with great potential and I hope it will take a front-seat in the next books. This is why Jay either has to develop something to make him a part of the team or helpful to Violet in some way, so that he can get som book-time or he will just be background decor. Basically Violet is entering a new world and so far Jay isn't doing anything to keep up.
So. Rafe. Rafe is very useful, he's a part of the team, he can follow her on her adventures and he's NOT perfect. He's NOT boring. So even though I love our dear Jay greatly, I say Bring it on! Let's give Jay a little competition, see him ruffled a bit, and even if Violet and Rafe do not work out, then at least it made her relationship with Jay stronger and made her a different person. Let's see some development!
I'm looking very much forward to seeing where Derting will bring this series!
I think Jay could do with a little competition! Yes, I know, he's dreamy and all perfect and, dare I say it? Maybe a liiiiittle bit boring. Just a little bit. Please don't kill me.
I think a Body Finder series with Violet's man just being a supportive background, would be disappointing. I loved the whole thing Derting came up with, with the team, I thought it was a great twist with great potential and I hope it will take a front-seat in the next books. This is why Jay either has to develop something to make him a part of the team or helpful to Violet in some way, so that he can get som book-time or he will just be background decor. Basically Violet is entering a new world and so far Jay isn't doing anything to keep up.
So. Rafe. Rafe is very useful, he's a part of the team, he can follow her on her adventures and he's NOT perfect. He's NOT boring. So even though I love our dear Jay greatly, I say Bring it on! Let's give Jay a little competition, see him ruffled a bit, and even if Violet and Rafe do not work out, then at least it made her relationship with Jay stronger and made her a different person. Let's see some development!
I'm looking very much forward to seeing where Derting will bring this series!
June 16, 2013
Note that I didn't finish reading this book, I got no more than 110 pages in and gave up. For me, I liked the first two of this series, it was a great new sort of paranormal- ish situation and was interesting. However, in The Last Echo, I was constantly dropping the book after reading a page or so to go get a glass of water, write something down or simply just do nothing. Anything felt better than trying to devour this book. Once I finally decided to keep on reading, I'd pause again, find another book to read and finish it without dropping it in a couple of hours. Soon I released there was no point. The writing was worse, it felt like a totally different author writing this, I was thoroughly disgusted. I found myself also checking the page numbers to see how much I had progressed too, but I'm sorry Ms. Derting, I cannot finish this at all. It just isn't really suited well for me anymore. Hopefully, I'll find some to re read this series and find myself actually active in the book, not just reading it like it was some unwanted stinky chore.
Though, for those lovers of this series, go ahead and read it, it may still be just as amazing for you as the first two.
Though, for those lovers of this series, go ahead and read it, it may still be just as amazing for you as the first two.
May 26, 2012
Another amazing novel written by an amazing author. The last echo was suspenseful and thrilling. It manged to keep me up all night, just like her other books in the seris have.... I loved every thing about the book, except the romance between Jay and Violet. I"ve been a fan of their relationship since book one, however my views began to shift once Rafe came into the picture. Hopefully Derting ends up starting a relationship with Vi and Rafe. Because personally, I think he understands Vi more than Jay... Looking forward to 2013 to continue reading the Body Finder seris! :)
March 22, 2016
This book is very different of the first two in the series, but it's a good kind of different. Even if the secondary characters hardly make any appearance in this one, not even Jay, and I've missed them, this is the best in the series so far.
May 11, 2012
4.5 stars
The Body Finder was one of my favourite books of 2010 and I have been a fan of Kimberly Derting and this series ever since I read it. It shouldn't come as any surprise to hear that I have been eagerly waiting for this book since I read Desires of the Dead last year. Considering the lengthy wait and my high expectations it would have been easy to end up disappointed but I'm happy to say that The Last Echo completely blew me away and was by far my favourite instalment to the series so far! Kimberly Derting hit the ball right out of the park with this one and I have no idea how I'll survive the wait until the final book of the series next year!
As The Last Echo is the third book in the body finder series I'm going to assume that anyone reading this review will already have read the first two books. Therefore this will include spoilers for the previous books but will remain spoiler free for The Last Echo - don't say I didn't warn you if you choose to carry on reading!
Violet has been through a lot since we first met her, she has helped track down several murderers and almost been killed in the process. She has seen more dead bodies than anyone would ever want to see - especially considering she is only 17 years old - and she has been recruited by an FBI agent to work on a special psychic task force. Yes, it has definitely been an interesting year for Vi! Luckily she has a supportive boyfriend Jay who has always known about her abilities and her family are there to stand by her. On the downside she is about to face her toughest adversary yet and things will never be the same again.
Violet has always kept her abilities a secret so it is strange for her to be working with her new team and she finds it hard to trust them at first. I really enjoyed getting to find out more about Sara and Rafe along with meeting other team members Krystal, Sam and Gemma. They all have slightly different abilities and I'm enjoying discovering just what they are capable of. Violet feels guilty that her powers are only useful after a murder has been committed, her ability to sense the echo left behind on both the killer and the body doesn't offer much help trying to stop a crime from being committed in the first place. Some of the others are able to sense things before they happen and Violet wants to find a way to use her gift to stop future murders. Their latest case against a serial killer dubbed as "the collector" isn't going to be easy though and he has his sights set on collecting one of their own.
I found myself slightly frustrated that we don't get to see more of Jay in this book, I absolutely love him and think he and Violet are made for each other. He has always been such a good friend to her and he is incredibly romantic, the kind of boyfriend any girl would want to have! I was pleased to see that most of the time they are together things are going better between them than they were in the last book though. While I like Rafe as a character and desperately want to know more about his abilities I am frustrated that Violet seems so drawn to him and I really hope that she doesn't end up ditching Jay. I can see why Violet feels able to share things with Rafe that she is wary of talking to Jay about but considering how Jay has been there for her for so many years I think he understands her better than she understands herself! I think I'm just a little bit fed up with the whole love triangle thing as it seems to be occurring in almost every YA series I read. At least it isn't done too heavy handedly in these books though.
What I love most about this series is the mystery. Kimberly Derting always includes short chapters from the killer's perspective and while they are always creepy I think she outdid herself this time around. Scenes in The Last Echo actually gave me chills and the killer was definitely a level up from the bad guys in the previous books! The last half of the book was completely impossible to put down - I was on the edge of my seat with my heart in my mouth as I read the ending and I am now desperate to get my hands on the next book! It's going to be a long year's wait but I'm sure it will be worth it.
The Body Finder was one of my favourite books of 2010 and I have been a fan of Kimberly Derting and this series ever since I read it. It shouldn't come as any surprise to hear that I have been eagerly waiting for this book since I read Desires of the Dead last year. Considering the lengthy wait and my high expectations it would have been easy to end up disappointed but I'm happy to say that The Last Echo completely blew me away and was by far my favourite instalment to the series so far! Kimberly Derting hit the ball right out of the park with this one and I have no idea how I'll survive the wait until the final book of the series next year!
As The Last Echo is the third book in the body finder series I'm going to assume that anyone reading this review will already have read the first two books. Therefore this will include spoilers for the previous books but will remain spoiler free for The Last Echo - don't say I didn't warn you if you choose to carry on reading!
Violet has been through a lot since we first met her, she has helped track down several murderers and almost been killed in the process. She has seen more dead bodies than anyone would ever want to see - especially considering she is only 17 years old - and she has been recruited by an FBI agent to work on a special psychic task force. Yes, it has definitely been an interesting year for Vi! Luckily she has a supportive boyfriend Jay who has always known about her abilities and her family are there to stand by her. On the downside she is about to face her toughest adversary yet and things will never be the same again.
Violet has always kept her abilities a secret so it is strange for her to be working with her new team and she finds it hard to trust them at first. I really enjoyed getting to find out more about Sara and Rafe along with meeting other team members Krystal, Sam and Gemma. They all have slightly different abilities and I'm enjoying discovering just what they are capable of. Violet feels guilty that her powers are only useful after a murder has been committed, her ability to sense the echo left behind on both the killer and the body doesn't offer much help trying to stop a crime from being committed in the first place. Some of the others are able to sense things before they happen and Violet wants to find a way to use her gift to stop future murders. Their latest case against a serial killer dubbed as "the collector" isn't going to be easy though and he has his sights set on collecting one of their own.
I found myself slightly frustrated that we don't get to see more of Jay in this book, I absolutely love him and think he and Violet are made for each other. He has always been such a good friend to her and he is incredibly romantic, the kind of boyfriend any girl would want to have! I was pleased to see that most of the time they are together things are going better between them than they were in the last book though. While I like Rafe as a character and desperately want to know more about his abilities I am frustrated that Violet seems so drawn to him and I really hope that she doesn't end up ditching Jay. I can see why Violet feels able to share things with Rafe that she is wary of talking to Jay about but considering how Jay has been there for her for so many years I think he understands her better than she understands herself! I think I'm just a little bit fed up with the whole love triangle thing as it seems to be occurring in almost every YA series I read. At least it isn't done too heavy handedly in these books though.
What I love most about this series is the mystery. Kimberly Derting always includes short chapters from the killer's perspective and while they are always creepy I think she outdid herself this time around. Scenes in The Last Echo actually gave me chills and the killer was definitely a level up from the bad guys in the previous books! The last half of the book was completely impossible to put down - I was on the edge of my seat with my heart in my mouth as I read the ending and I am now desperate to get my hands on the next book! It's going to be a long year's wait but I'm sure it will be worth it.
June 19, 2012
2.5 Stars I realize I'm probably a minority here...
So...I'm just a teeny tiny bit embarrassed. A couple weeks ago I raved about The Body Finder Series in "My Favorite Reads" Giveaway. And don't get me wrong...I still love love love The Body Finder and Desires of the Dead. But somehow this one took a turn around the wrong bend...
The Love Triangle:
The thing I had loved about the first two books was the complete absence of ANY love triangle. It was a nice change to all the love-triangle frenzy. I loved watching Jay and Violet's relationship unfold. So you can imagine my disappointment when the only scenes in The Last Echo of Jay and Violet were short, simple dialogues and lots of kisses...(not that I mind the kisses but after awhile you forget what made them special). The entire book is focused on RAFE. RAFE. RAFE. Rafe, who reminds me so much of "Edward": dark, moody, mysterious. And surprise, surprise. He seems to only have a connection with Violet. Even down to the "electric sparks" between them...
Finally, a slow grin spread over his face. "Well, that was awkward." Violet flexed her fingers, still awed by the strange sensation rippling through her. "Do you mind explaining what the hell that is?" she asked. "You feel it too...don't you?"
Oh, please. And what is it about girls who can't just ADMIT or SEE that the boy likes her?
"They were just friends, she and Rafe, and she was worried for him. Friends could touch each other. Friends could hold hands."
Whatever you say Violet...But then she'll see Jay and it's all about "I need you Jay. You complete me..." I think I'm going to gag.
Which brings me to point #2-Violet:
I missed the old Violet. Even though she had a few insecurities in #1 and #2, it really became full blown in this one. She's constantly worried about her relationship with the rest of the TEAM. And she can't seem to make up her mind about Jay or Rafe. Even in the end, she's still torn between the two! She doesn't seem to connect with her friends as much as she did in the first two...but then again, she's NEVER around them in this one. And I miss all of Chelsea's funny dialogue.
So what about the plot?
Every few chapters, we read about the murderer and his thoughts. Derting really made him creepy and disturbing. While it was creative, I felt like he was a bit too sicko for me. . And I'm not quite sure if I buy into the psychology of it...but then again, people do the weirdest things for the weirdest reasons.
Also the side plot of James Nua seemed out of place and unnecessary. James Nua is a killer who Violet happens to see in the police station and he's now out to get her because he thinks she knows something...
So Should you read it?
I'm not sure I like the direction of where this series is going. I had LIKED the simple small town life scenarios of the first two...but now is the introduction of a whole slew of new characters and new assignments. It's like Veronica Mars evolving into CSI. And something's gone missing. Other reviewers really enjoyed this one, so I'm sure I'm in the minority but I think this is the end of the line for me. :(
PS. The title is confusing and Derting even says that herself. So there will be #4: Dead Silence.
Check out this review and more on Zombie Mommies.
So...I'm just a teeny tiny bit embarrassed. A couple weeks ago I raved about The Body Finder Series in "My Favorite Reads" Giveaway. And don't get me wrong...I still love love love The Body Finder and Desires of the Dead. But somehow this one took a turn around the wrong bend...
The Love Triangle:
The thing I had loved about the first two books was the complete absence of ANY love triangle. It was a nice change to all the love-triangle frenzy. I loved watching Jay and Violet's relationship unfold. So you can imagine my disappointment when the only scenes in The Last Echo of Jay and Violet were short, simple dialogues and lots of kisses...(not that I mind the kisses but after awhile you forget what made them special). The entire book is focused on RAFE. RAFE. RAFE. Rafe, who reminds me so much of "Edward": dark, moody, mysterious. And surprise, surprise. He seems to only have a connection with Violet. Even down to the "electric sparks" between them...
Finally, a slow grin spread over his face. "Well, that was awkward." Violet flexed her fingers, still awed by the strange sensation rippling through her. "Do you mind explaining what the hell that is?" she asked. "You feel it too...don't you?"
Oh, please. And what is it about girls who can't just ADMIT or SEE that the boy likes her?
"They were just friends, she and Rafe, and she was worried for him. Friends could touch each other. Friends could hold hands."
Whatever you say Violet...But then she'll see Jay and it's all about "I need you Jay. You complete me..." I think I'm going to gag.
Which brings me to point #2-Violet:
I missed the old Violet. Even though she had a few insecurities in #1 and #2, it really became full blown in this one. She's constantly worried about her relationship with the rest of the TEAM. And she can't seem to make up her mind about Jay or Rafe. Even in the end, she's still torn between the two! She doesn't seem to connect with her friends as much as she did in the first two...but then again, she's NEVER around them in this one. And I miss all of Chelsea's funny dialogue.
So what about the plot?
Every few chapters, we read about the murderer and his thoughts. Derting really made him creepy and disturbing. While it was creative, I felt like he was a bit too sicko for me. . And I'm not quite sure if I buy into the psychology of it...but then again, people do the weirdest things for the weirdest reasons.
Also the side plot of James Nua seemed out of place and unnecessary. James Nua is a killer who Violet happens to see in the police station and he's now out to get her because he thinks she knows something...
So Should you read it?
I'm not sure I like the direction of where this series is going. I had LIKED the simple small town life scenarios of the first two...but now is the introduction of a whole slew of new characters and new assignments. It's like Veronica Mars evolving into CSI. And something's gone missing. Other reviewers really enjoyed this one, so I'm sure I'm in the minority but I think this is the end of the line for me. :(
PS. The title is confusing and Derting even says that herself. So there will be #4: Dead Silence.
Check out this review and more on Zombie Mommies.
January 31, 2012
I loved the first two books in The Body Finder series, but I loved this one even more. The first thing that grabs your eye with each of the books in this series is the cover-a different, beautiful and vibrant colored flower on each cover against a black background with white text is just striking. If that in itself wouldn't have you reaching for this off the shelf, the storyline certainly will. This book had me from the first page and didn't let go.
The Last Echo is written in third person and rotates between Violet's story and that of a very troubled young man, the Girlfriend Collector. I applaud Kimberly's imagination when writing these stories from the killer's point of view-creepy and scary and you don't want to read it but you just can't help but turn the pages to see what he will say or do next. We pick up where Desires of the Dead left off. Violet Ambrose has begun working with Sara Priest and her team of "gifted" psychic teens at the Center. We get to know the members of the group (Sam, Rafe, Gemma, Krystal, and of course Sara is the leader) and what their special gifts are throughout the book. I love how Kimberly gave them each a unique gift, and we learn what they each can do. Violet has a hard time feeling like she fits in at first because she cannot do what the others in the group can. Her talent is really only helpful AFTER a murder has been committed or a death has occurred. The others have talents that could possibly help stop those horrific incidents before they occur. Yet, she feels like this group is the first place she really belongs because she can talk about her gift openly with them and not feel different or an outcast. The only one of her "normal" friends who knows what she can do is her lifelong friend, and now boyfriend, Jay.
Violet seems to be spending more and more time with this new group of friends than her friends at school. She feels more comfortable with them because she doesn't have to hide anything from them. But these friends and her new job put her in some pretty dangerous situations. Some are very life threatening and you begin to wonder why Violet hasn't learned from past experience to stop going around town "investigating" things by HERSELF! **sigh**
There is some romance in this book, mostly between Violet and her beau, Jay. I really enjoyed the scenes with these two together. You can tell just how much they care about each other and what they mean to each other. We also get to learn a lot more about Rafe, and begin to wonder if friendship is the only thing in store for Rafe and our dear Violet.
The killer in this book is just as disturbing as those in the previous two books, if not more-so. He preys on college age girls in his search to find one who will love him forever. My skin crawled as I read his chapters and I couldn't believe what I was reading much of the time. Pure crazy! Sara's team tries to use their varied talents to help find the next girl who has gone missing, and they fear the Girlfriend Collector has her.
So if you are a fan of this series, you are absolutely going to love this one. If you are not a fan yet, go ahead and pick up the first two books in this series (The Body Finder and Desires of the Dead), you won't be disappointed I promise. Love, laughter, friendship, mystery, death, creepiness, twists and turns, danger...that's what you'll find in the pages of these books. And one last thing about The Last Echo--you will be left wishing you had the fourth installment right next to you when you finish. Yep, you guessed it-cliffhanger! But it is so worth it-go get your copy as soon as its available in stores or e-readers.
review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2012...
The Last Echo is written in third person and rotates between Violet's story and that of a very troubled young man, the Girlfriend Collector. I applaud Kimberly's imagination when writing these stories from the killer's point of view-creepy and scary and you don't want to read it but you just can't help but turn the pages to see what he will say or do next. We pick up where Desires of the Dead left off. Violet Ambrose has begun working with Sara Priest and her team of "gifted" psychic teens at the Center. We get to know the members of the group (Sam, Rafe, Gemma, Krystal, and of course Sara is the leader) and what their special gifts are throughout the book. I love how Kimberly gave them each a unique gift, and we learn what they each can do. Violet has a hard time feeling like she fits in at first because she cannot do what the others in the group can. Her talent is really only helpful AFTER a murder has been committed or a death has occurred. The others have talents that could possibly help stop those horrific incidents before they occur. Yet, she feels like this group is the first place she really belongs because she can talk about her gift openly with them and not feel different or an outcast. The only one of her "normal" friends who knows what she can do is her lifelong friend, and now boyfriend, Jay.
Violet seems to be spending more and more time with this new group of friends than her friends at school. She feels more comfortable with them because she doesn't have to hide anything from them. But these friends and her new job put her in some pretty dangerous situations. Some are very life threatening and you begin to wonder why Violet hasn't learned from past experience to stop going around town "investigating" things by HERSELF! **sigh**
There is some romance in this book, mostly between Violet and her beau, Jay. I really enjoyed the scenes with these two together. You can tell just how much they care about each other and what they mean to each other. We also get to learn a lot more about Rafe, and begin to wonder if friendship is the only thing in store for Rafe and our dear Violet.
The killer in this book is just as disturbing as those in the previous two books, if not more-so. He preys on college age girls in his search to find one who will love him forever. My skin crawled as I read his chapters and I couldn't believe what I was reading much of the time. Pure crazy! Sara's team tries to use their varied talents to help find the next girl who has gone missing, and they fear the Girlfriend Collector has her.
So if you are a fan of this series, you are absolutely going to love this one. If you are not a fan yet, go ahead and pick up the first two books in this series (The Body Finder and Desires of the Dead), you won't be disappointed I promise. Love, laughter, friendship, mystery, death, creepiness, twists and turns, danger...that's what you'll find in the pages of these books. And one last thing about The Last Echo--you will be left wishing you had the fourth installment right next to you when you finish. Yep, you guessed it-cliffhanger! But it is so worth it-go get your copy as soon as its available in stores or e-readers.
review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2012...
May 1, 2012
Apparently someone is telling Kimberly Derting that she can't top the last two novels in this series and she took it as a challenge. It's rare to find books that continually get better. But Ms. Derting needs to stop since I already gave The Body Finder a 5 so I'm not really sure where I can go from there. But I guess if she's testing my rating system, it might as well be stuck on the top instead of the bottom. The Last Echo takes everything you love about this series and amplifies it.
I like Violet so much because she's just a regular girl. Sure, she can find bodies but she isn't a super hero. I thnik this novel, out of all of them, really shows this. Working with the team, Violet is stretching her time thin. The late nights, the stressful cases and new friendships on top of school, a boyfriend, older friends and parents is really wearing on Violet. Not to mention, poor Violet has two enemies to deal with this time and is tested in everyway. I liked that she didn't magically know how to defend herself. She definitely has some skills and uses those to the best of her advantage but she hasn't morphed into a black belt between books. For me, this really stressed her normalness despite her ability.
I thought I was going to really hate the love triangle that was being introduced in book 2. I've always thought that Jay and Violet are one of the best and most real YA couples I've seen so far. They fight in a healthy way, they make up, they respect each other and you can generally see how much they care for each other. So introducing someone else that is going to threaten this relationship just wasn't okay for me. But in The Last Echo, we got to know Rafe as Violet did. And this ended up being a good thing. As I've said before, good love triangles will represent two paths a character can take and apparently Ms. Derting knows this as well. Rafe understands her on an entirely different level, one that Jay will never be able to. But Jay has Violet's past and knows her in a way Rafe never will. I think getting to know Rafe and his story better really enriched my view and I really enjoyed this aspect which is a testament to his charcter considering I'm head over heels for Jay. I hope Rafe will find happiness...just not with Violet. And though I could tell that Derting tried to squeeze as much Jay time in there as she could, I wish Jay could have played as big a part as he usually does.
I read a few reviews of Desires of Dead that had a problem with the plot and the killer. If this is something holding back from The Last Echo, rest assured you have nothing to fear. Echo introduces one of the creepiest killers yet. I felt like Derting went to a really dark place to find this new killer and she understood him. The killer named The Girlfriend Collector had deeply rooted motivations for what he did and every time one of his chapters came up I was both terrified and excited. The first hundred pages were a little slow for me but once I hit a certain point, things start speeding along and I found I couldn't set this novel down.
As with all the books in this series, The Last Echo was addictive. Violet and Jay are unforgettable and the mystery will have you gripping your sheets until your knuckles turn white. It seems odd to write that once again Ms. Derting has outdone herself but seeing as it is once again the truth, I need to say it. The Last Echo is another step up for this series which has already become one of my favorites.
I like Violet so much because she's just a regular girl. Sure, she can find bodies but she isn't a super hero. I thnik this novel, out of all of them, really shows this. Working with the team, Violet is stretching her time thin. The late nights, the stressful cases and new friendships on top of school, a boyfriend, older friends and parents is really wearing on Violet. Not to mention, poor Violet has two enemies to deal with this time and is tested in everyway. I liked that she didn't magically know how to defend herself. She definitely has some skills and uses those to the best of her advantage but she hasn't morphed into a black belt between books. For me, this really stressed her normalness despite her ability.
I thought I was going to really hate the love triangle that was being introduced in book 2. I've always thought that Jay and Violet are one of the best and most real YA couples I've seen so far. They fight in a healthy way, they make up, they respect each other and you can generally see how much they care for each other. So introducing someone else that is going to threaten this relationship just wasn't okay for me. But in The Last Echo, we got to know Rafe as Violet did. And this ended up being a good thing. As I've said before, good love triangles will represent two paths a character can take and apparently Ms. Derting knows this as well. Rafe understands her on an entirely different level, one that Jay will never be able to. But Jay has Violet's past and knows her in a way Rafe never will. I think getting to know Rafe and his story better really enriched my view and I really enjoyed this aspect which is a testament to his charcter considering I'm head over heels for Jay. I hope Rafe will find happiness...just not with Violet. And though I could tell that Derting tried to squeeze as much Jay time in there as she could, I wish Jay could have played as big a part as he usually does.
I read a few reviews of Desires of Dead that had a problem with the plot and the killer. If this is something holding back from The Last Echo, rest assured you have nothing to fear. Echo introduces one of the creepiest killers yet. I felt like Derting went to a really dark place to find this new killer and she understood him. The killer named The Girlfriend Collector had deeply rooted motivations for what he did and every time one of his chapters came up I was both terrified and excited. The first hundred pages were a little slow for me but once I hit a certain point, things start speeding along and I found I couldn't set this novel down.
As with all the books in this series, The Last Echo was addictive. Violet and Jay are unforgettable and the mystery will have you gripping your sheets until your knuckles turn white. It seems odd to write that once again Ms. Derting has outdone herself but seeing as it is once again the truth, I need to say it. The Last Echo is another step up for this series which has already become one of my favorites.
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