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Dark Paradise #1
Dark Paradise
DARK LEGACY
Mala LaCroix has spent her whole life trying to escape her destiny. As the last in a long line of "witch women," she rejects the notion of spirits and hoodoo and instead does her best to blend in. But when she finds a dead body floating in the bayou behind her house, Mala taps into powers she never knew she had. She's haunted by visions of the dead girl, demanding justice and vengeance.
DEADLY SECRETS
Landry Prince has always had a crush on Mala, but when Mala discovers his sister, murdered and marked in some sort of Satanic ritual, he wonders if all the rumors about the LaCroix family are true. Yet after Mala uses her connection to the spirit world to identify his sister's killer, he starts to form his own bond to her . . . a very physical one. As they move closer to each other and closer to the truth, Mala and Landry must risk everything—their families, their love, and even their lives.
Word count: 96,000
Mala LaCroix has spent her whole life trying to escape her destiny. As the last in a long line of "witch women," she rejects the notion of spirits and hoodoo and instead does her best to blend in. But when she finds a dead body floating in the bayou behind her house, Mala taps into powers she never knew she had. She's haunted by visions of the dead girl, demanding justice and vengeance.
DEADLY SECRETS
Landry Prince has always had a crush on Mala, but when Mala discovers his sister, murdered and marked in some sort of Satanic ritual, he wonders if all the rumors about the LaCroix family are true. Yet after Mala uses her connection to the spirit world to identify his sister's killer, he starts to form his own bond to her . . . a very physical one. As they move closer to each other and closer to the truth, Mala and Landry must risk everything—their families, their love, and even their lives.
Word count: 96,000
399 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
2 people are currently reading
1005 people want to read
About the author
Angie Sandro
5 books118 followersSign up for my newsletter to get information about my upcoming new releases, exclusive excerpts, giveaways, http://eepurl.com/9xH8X
Angie Sandro was born at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. Within six weeks, she began the first of eleven relocations throughout the United States, Spain, and Guam before the age of eighteen.
Friends were left behind. The only constants in her life were her family and the books she shipped wherever she went. Traveling the world inspired her imagination and allowed her to create her own imaginary friends. Visits to her father's family in Louisiana inspired this story.
Angie now lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and an overweight Labrador.
Angie Sandro was born at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. Within six weeks, she began the first of eleven relocations throughout the United States, Spain, and Guam before the age of eighteen.
Friends were left behind. The only constants in her life were her family and the books she shipped wherever she went. Traveling the world inspired her imagination and allowed her to create her own imaginary friends. Visits to her father's family in Louisiana inspired this story.
Angie now lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and an overweight Labrador.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
June 15, 2014
WOW ... this book is something. I couldn't wait to read it but I didn't expect to like it this much. It started off good but I didn't want to get my hopes up in case it ended up being stupid. But that didn't happen. I think Angie Sandro will be added to my favorite author list.
Summary: Mala LaCroix is a witch or at least that's what everyone else thinks. Being judged and bullied since the day she was born she's working hard to prove that she's not like her mom. She doesn't need anything happening to her to draw anymore attention to herself. But when she comes across a dead girl things get worst. And they get even more worst when that dead girl's brother won't leave her alone.
Character(s): Angie Sandro did a good job with the characters. Mala is kickass! It seems like everyone hates her and she goes through alot throughout the story but Sandro managed to keep her strong, and not turn her into some whining heroine that we're supposed to love. Landry was kind of boring at the beginning but he grew on me. Even though he let what other people thought affect him a little to much for me he's still swoon worthy. There are alot of characters and being that it's kind of a mystery you have to keep up with them to try to figure it out. But I think that they fit well together. I disliked who I was suppose to dislike and I liked who I was supposed to like. I can't wait to see what happens next with the characters.
Writing: The writing is really good. The story takes place in the south and the author managed to not make the characters sound like the stupidest people on earth. On the behalf of all southern readers I thank you Sandro!
Overall: This is a great start to a new series. I can't wait to see what else happens. EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THIS!!!!
Summary: Mala LaCroix is a witch or at least that's what everyone else thinks. Being judged and bullied since the day she was born she's working hard to prove that she's not like her mom. She doesn't need anything happening to her to draw anymore attention to herself. But when she comes across a dead girl things get worst. And they get even more worst when that dead girl's brother won't leave her alone.
Character(s): Angie Sandro did a good job with the characters. Mala is kickass! It seems like everyone hates her and she goes through alot throughout the story but Sandro managed to keep her strong, and not turn her into some whining heroine that we're supposed to love. Landry was kind of boring at the beginning but he grew on me. Even though he let what other people thought affect him a little to much for me he's still swoon worthy. There are alot of characters and being that it's kind of a mystery you have to keep up with them to try to figure it out. But I think that they fit well together. I disliked who I was suppose to dislike and I liked who I was supposed to like. I can't wait to see what happens next with the characters.
Writing: The writing is really good. The story takes place in the south and the author managed to not make the characters sound like the stupidest people on earth. On the behalf of all southern readers I thank you Sandro!
Overall: This is a great start to a new series. I can't wait to see what else happens. EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THIS!!!!
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December 14, 2014Dark Paradise began as a series of “what ifs” and grew into something magical.
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If you want to know more you can find me on the following social media sites. I also newsletter: http://eepurl.com/9xH8X
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/AngieSandro
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July 19, 2016
GTFU at 50%
I wanted to like this one because it was set in Louisiana but I just gave up after awhile. It puts a bad taste in my mouth when it makes them seem like all country hillbillies. Not to mention the sheriff being named Georgie and old aunt voodoo lady. I just couldn't get past all of that to enjoy the actual story line.
I wanted to like this one because it was set in Louisiana but I just gave up after awhile. It puts a bad taste in my mouth when it makes them seem like all country hillbillies. Not to mention the sheriff being named Georgie and old aunt voodoo lady. I just couldn't get past all of that to enjoy the actual story line.
August 4, 2014
1.5 stars
Arc provided by Forever Yours through Netgalley
Let it be known that so far I think I've only mildly enjoyed a single New Adult novel.
So yes, you can say that this genre isn't my cup of tea... well not so much the genre per se, but one of its leading characteristics: The high level of drama and angst that these stories normally possess.
This story, despite the initial fluidity of the writing and despite having nailed a perfect ambience setting, ends up being just another carousel of feelings, with the plot being removed out of the spotlight.
And it's a shame because this had so much potential! I can't help feeling that this could have been great, if the plot hadn't been smothered by so much emotions going rampant all over the place!
The story is told through dual points of view: _Malaise (Mala), and Landry...
Landry is a twenty one year old guy, whose voice tries to come out as sensitive and all that... but who just ends up sounding like a judgemental girl... with a penis!
Because c'mon!!
"She frowns but is not deterred. You’d think she’d finally get a clue that I don’t find her remotely attractive. It’s not that she isn’t beautiful, she is. Stunning, if you like her type, but her pale skin and willow—that’s what they call model skinny girls—willowy frame isn’t what I crave. I want a girl with meat on her bones. Okay, I’m only obsessed over one girl’s curves,(..)"
And then there's the fact that he's a ladies man (is this the male equivalent of slut? Because this sounds so much better!), but who gets tongue tied in the presence of one special girl... whom he apparently has been stalking for some time now... but of course in a non threatening way *pulls hair*.
Glaring Mistake #1: Stop making these obsessive/insane characters feasible love interests!
You know what ends up happening to women who get involved with guys like these?
Most of them end up dead.
I could go on and on about all the things that should make all girls run the other way when a guy like Landry appears. Yes, there are plenty of them, but you get the type right?
Spoiler!!!
and one minute later (fine, 2 minutes tops!! I am not kidding!) the guy is already thinking about how wonderful and beautiful Mala is??
This is just wrong!
Doesn't he have feelings at all?? And I am not talking about those!
"God, she’s beautiful. I pluck a jasmine blossom from her hair and tuck it behind her ear. My heart stops beating for a few seconds when my fingers brush her earlobe. It’s soft, ah, silky. I stiffen my knees and focus on breathing in one slow breath at a time. If I dare touch her one more time, I’ll die, and she’ll have no idea she killed me."
Oh, my God...
And to say that he spend four days secluded in his apartment... drinking... and playing video games??
Video games?? Are you serious? (at least he didn't share his results on FB)
He could at least have been seeing some family movies with the sister in it... or something like that, it would probably help make him look a little more mature.
Okay, it's true that in the beginning on the book he claims that he's not the "sharpest tool in the shed" o_O but this does not excuse the idiocies he says. *shakes head*
"No wonder Dad wanted me to stop in to check on her. She’s not handling Lainey’s passing well after all."
Really Sherlock?? A mother isn't dealing well with her daughter's death?
On and on, this ends up being an overly dramatization of a southern soap opera!
The author starts by having a good grip on the story's pacing, _although, later on, the thing is just lost between all the hormones floating around_ but the characters and situations are so overly dramatized that this honestly become painful to read.
Glaring Mistake #2
I don't know about you guys, but I'm getting really tired of reading about girls in books that only know to call themselves names, and who only know how to fight one another over boys _as if they're starving dogs!_ and as if they have no pride whatsoever.
Girl on girl hate and slut shaming should just be forbidden in YA books.
"Clarice stands with her hands on her hips. “Seriously, Landry,” she yells. “You’re gonna ditch me for that slut?”
(..)
"I whirl in Landry’s arms, fed up. “I’m not the one begging like a bitch for a bone,” I say to her, shaking my head in disgust.
“Show some pride. He’s obviously not into you.”
I would like to be able to say that eventually the story gets better.
But I would be lying. In fact it only gets worse :/ and I so regret the time I wasted on this.
The writing style that, at the beginning, seemed so promising becomes so packed with clichés, and the sentences are so short and brisk, that instead of reading a book, it feels as if I'm listening to some crazy people talk. There's no fluidity, there's no nothing! Only dialogues thrown in like paint to the walls. Some hits, others don't...
Most of the characters behave as some sort of Tasmanian Devils on steroids! It's insane!
And draining to read!
As if all the drama, drama, drama wasn't high enough, we get human sacrifices and amnesiac characters _how soap operish is this?
And, as if all of this wasn't enough, the author also had to throw in a love triangle... because... who knows, not enough balls in the air?!
Or is this a New Adult pre-requisite?
Honestly I just picked this up because due to same crazy assumptions I thought this would be something along the lines of Tami Hoag's books.
Next time my brain concocts such an idiocy I'm just going to re-read Tami Hoag's titles "Cry Wolf" or "Between The Lines".
Now that's a dark, intense story!
p.s- Oh, and calling a character Georgie? Georgie?
What is she? Five years old?
Arc provided by Forever Yours through Netgalley
Let it be known that so far I think I've only mildly enjoyed a single New Adult novel.
So yes, you can say that this genre isn't my cup of tea... well not so much the genre per se, but one of its leading characteristics: The high level of drama and angst that these stories normally possess.
This story, despite the initial fluidity of the writing and despite having nailed a perfect ambience setting, ends up being just another carousel of feelings, with the plot being removed out of the spotlight.
And it's a shame because this had so much potential! I can't help feeling that this could have been great, if the plot hadn't been smothered by so much emotions going rampant all over the place!
The story is told through dual points of view: _Malaise (Mala), and Landry...
Landry is a twenty one year old guy, whose voice tries to come out as sensitive and all that... but who just ends up sounding like a judgemental girl... with a penis!
Because c'mon!!
"She frowns but is not deterred. You’d think she’d finally get a clue that I don’t find her remotely attractive. It’s not that she isn’t beautiful, she is. Stunning, if you like her type, but her pale skin and willow—that’s what they call model skinny girls—willowy frame isn’t what I crave. I want a girl with meat on her bones. Okay, I’m only obsessed over one girl’s curves,(..)"
And then there's the fact that he's a ladies man (is this the male equivalent of slut? Because this sounds so much better!), but who gets tongue tied in the presence of one special girl... whom he apparently has been stalking for some time now... but of course in a non threatening way *pulls hair*.
Glaring Mistake #1: Stop making these obsessive/insane characters feasible love interests!
You know what ends up happening to women who get involved with guys like these?
Most of them end up dead.
I could go on and on about all the things that should make all girls run the other way when a guy like Landry appears. Yes, there are plenty of them, but you get the type right?
Spoiler!!!
and one minute later (fine, 2 minutes tops!! I am not kidding!) the guy is already thinking about how wonderful and beautiful Mala is??
This is just wrong!
Doesn't he have feelings at all?? And I am not talking about those!
"God, she’s beautiful. I pluck a jasmine blossom from her hair and tuck it behind her ear. My heart stops beating for a few seconds when my fingers brush her earlobe. It’s soft, ah, silky. I stiffen my knees and focus on breathing in one slow breath at a time. If I dare touch her one more time, I’ll die, and she’ll have no idea she killed me."
Oh, my God...
And to say that he spend four days secluded in his apartment... drinking... and playing video games??
Video games?? Are you serious? (at least he didn't share his results on FB)
He could at least have been seeing some family movies with the sister in it... or something like that, it would probably help make him look a little more mature.
Okay, it's true that in the beginning on the book he claims that he's not the "sharpest tool in the shed" o_O but this does not excuse the idiocies he says. *shakes head*
"No wonder Dad wanted me to stop in to check on her. She’s not handling Lainey’s passing well after all."
Really Sherlock?? A mother isn't dealing well with her daughter's death?
On and on, this ends up being an overly dramatization of a southern soap opera!
The author starts by having a good grip on the story's pacing, _although, later on, the thing is just lost between all the hormones floating around_ but the characters and situations are so overly dramatized that this honestly become painful to read.
Glaring Mistake #2
I don't know about you guys, but I'm getting really tired of reading about girls in books that only know to call themselves names, and who only know how to fight one another over boys _as if they're starving dogs!_ and as if they have no pride whatsoever.
Girl on girl hate and slut shaming should just be forbidden in YA books.
"Clarice stands with her hands on her hips. “Seriously, Landry,” she yells. “You’re gonna ditch me for that slut?”
(..)
"I whirl in Landry’s arms, fed up. “I’m not the one begging like a bitch for a bone,” I say to her, shaking my head in disgust.
“Show some pride. He’s obviously not into you.”
I would like to be able to say that eventually the story gets better.
But I would be lying. In fact it only gets worse :/ and I so regret the time I wasted on this.
The writing style that, at the beginning, seemed so promising becomes so packed with clichés, and the sentences are so short and brisk, that instead of reading a book, it feels as if I'm listening to some crazy people talk. There's no fluidity, there's no nothing! Only dialogues thrown in like paint to the walls. Some hits, others don't...
Most of the characters behave as some sort of Tasmanian Devils on steroids! It's insane!
And draining to read!
As if all the drama, drama, drama wasn't high enough, we get human sacrifices and amnesiac characters _how soap operish is this?
And, as if all of this wasn't enough, the author also had to throw in a love triangle... because... who knows, not enough balls in the air?!
Or is this a New Adult pre-requisite?
Honestly I just picked this up because due to same crazy assumptions I thought this would be something along the lines of Tami Hoag's books.
Next time my brain concocts such an idiocy I'm just going to re-read Tami Hoag's titles "Cry Wolf" or "Between The Lines".
Now that's a dark, intense story!
p.s- Oh, and calling a character Georgie? Georgie?
What is she? Five years old?
October 1, 2014
Three and a half stars: A gothic, atmospheric tale with ghosts and big secrets.
Mala traverses through the murky swamp, looking for her trap. Gators and all kinds of creatures inhabit this swamp, but Mala is undeterred. She has grown up in the bayou and gators don't frighten her easily. Unfortunately, today isn't Mala's day. When she reaches for the trap, her rope breaks. She can either leave it or go hunting for it. Mala despite the alarm bells going off in her head, decides to go after the trap. Her foot squelches down in the mud, sinking so deep she can't move, and then she sees large ripples moving across the pond. Her heart skitters in fear, but what she sees next is even more terrifying than a hungry gator. A dead body floats on the water before her. Terrified, Mala pulls out the corpse and runs for help, not knowing that accusatory fingers will be pointed at her because of her heritage. Can Mala help track down the real killer?
What I Liked:
*Finally, a New Adult book that isn't the same old same old. This is a NA with a gothic Southern backdrop, eerie mystery, ghosts and hoodoo. If you are looking for a NA paranormal this is a good one to try. I was thrilled to finally get a NA book that I liked.
*Mala or Malaise St. Crouix is a character that I couldn't help but to get behind and root for. Mala's mother, Jasmine, is rumored to be a witch, and she makes no attempts to hide her profession as the town whore. Mala has endured years of looks and whispers, but she doesn't let it get to her. She continues to hold her head high, work hard and reach for her goal of being a deputy. She is resourceful and unafraid to tackle her problems head on, whether it be a gator in the swamp or the town mean girl. I am always a fan of underdog characters, and Mala fits the mold perfectly.
*Mala's mother, Jasmine, was a character who took me by surprise. At first meeting, she stumbles home drunk, puking in the flowers. Not the most impressive introduction. She spends her days as a prostitute and the rest of the time drunk. She and Mala may not always see eye to eye but when it matters, Jasmine loves her daughter. As the story moves forward, I learned more about Jasmine, and I actually got to the point where I liked her. She has plenty of secrets for sure. I will be interested to see if she makes appearances in the next books.
*I liked the solid murder mystery. After Mala finds the body floating in the swamp, strange things begin to happen. Mala and Landry are haunted by the dead girl, Lainey. It seems Lainey has a score to settle and it is up to Mala and her brother, Landry, to catch her killer. I had no clue as to who the murderer was, and I was shocked at the final revelations. I didn't see that coming.
*This book is told through dual perspectives, Mala and Landry. I like when a book uses two voices because I enjoy seeing things through both character's eyes.
*Even though this is the first in the series, the book wraps up nicely at the end. Most of the main story lines are completed, while a few niggling questions are left unanswered. I appreciated that there wasn't an annoying cliffhanger, and I was satisfied with the conclusion.
And The Not So Much:
*I struggled with the romance in this one. There is almost a love triangle, but not really, if that makes sense. In the beginning, Mala has a long time cruse on one boy, and she is wary of the other. Then suddenly, Mala is attracted to the second boy whom she used to fear, and her long time crush is relegated to friend status. I just never felt a strong connection to the romance because I don't think it solidified. Mala seems hesitant and uncertain of her feelings, and I am not convinced that she really has feelings for either suitor. The romance for me is still in the development stage, and I am interested to see how it will go from here, and who she will pick.
*I struggled a bit with the pacing. The first part of the story is eerie and exciting, but then toward the middle, it lagged a bit. Then the end hits fast and furious, so fast that I almost felt like it was moving too quickly in comparison to the previous section. Still the book definitely ends with a bag and it is worth the wait.
*I was disappointed that after all the buildup regarding the missing diary that it is forgotten in the mayhem. I wanted to know after all the searching what was in that diary.
*I was hoping for a bit more hoodoo and manifestation of witchy powers, but that didn't happen. However, the book ends after it sets up the next book, which from what I gather will be filled with dark magic and hoodoo.
Dark Paradise was an creepy, mysterious NA read. Finally, a NA book that takes a new direction. This is a book with ghosts, hoodoo, murder and secrets in a small Southern town. If you like gothic, atmospheric reads this is one to check out.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Mala traverses through the murky swamp, looking for her trap. Gators and all kinds of creatures inhabit this swamp, but Mala is undeterred. She has grown up in the bayou and gators don't frighten her easily. Unfortunately, today isn't Mala's day. When she reaches for the trap, her rope breaks. She can either leave it or go hunting for it. Mala despite the alarm bells going off in her head, decides to go after the trap. Her foot squelches down in the mud, sinking so deep she can't move, and then she sees large ripples moving across the pond. Her heart skitters in fear, but what she sees next is even more terrifying than a hungry gator. A dead body floats on the water before her. Terrified, Mala pulls out the corpse and runs for help, not knowing that accusatory fingers will be pointed at her because of her heritage. Can Mala help track down the real killer?
What I Liked:
*Finally, a New Adult book that isn't the same old same old. This is a NA with a gothic Southern backdrop, eerie mystery, ghosts and hoodoo. If you are looking for a NA paranormal this is a good one to try. I was thrilled to finally get a NA book that I liked.
*Mala or Malaise St. Crouix is a character that I couldn't help but to get behind and root for. Mala's mother, Jasmine, is rumored to be a witch, and she makes no attempts to hide her profession as the town whore. Mala has endured years of looks and whispers, but she doesn't let it get to her. She continues to hold her head high, work hard and reach for her goal of being a deputy. She is resourceful and unafraid to tackle her problems head on, whether it be a gator in the swamp or the town mean girl. I am always a fan of underdog characters, and Mala fits the mold perfectly.
*Mala's mother, Jasmine, was a character who took me by surprise. At first meeting, she stumbles home drunk, puking in the flowers. Not the most impressive introduction. She spends her days as a prostitute and the rest of the time drunk. She and Mala may not always see eye to eye but when it matters, Jasmine loves her daughter. As the story moves forward, I learned more about Jasmine, and I actually got to the point where I liked her. She has plenty of secrets for sure. I will be interested to see if she makes appearances in the next books.
*I liked the solid murder mystery. After Mala finds the body floating in the swamp, strange things begin to happen. Mala and Landry are haunted by the dead girl, Lainey. It seems Lainey has a score to settle and it is up to Mala and her brother, Landry, to catch her killer. I had no clue as to who the murderer was, and I was shocked at the final revelations. I didn't see that coming.
*This book is told through dual perspectives, Mala and Landry. I like when a book uses two voices because I enjoy seeing things through both character's eyes.
*Even though this is the first in the series, the book wraps up nicely at the end. Most of the main story lines are completed, while a few niggling questions are left unanswered. I appreciated that there wasn't an annoying cliffhanger, and I was satisfied with the conclusion.
And The Not So Much:
*I struggled with the romance in this one. There is almost a love triangle, but not really, if that makes sense. In the beginning, Mala has a long time cruse on one boy, and she is wary of the other. Then suddenly, Mala is attracted to the second boy whom she used to fear, and her long time crush is relegated to friend status. I just never felt a strong connection to the romance because I don't think it solidified. Mala seems hesitant and uncertain of her feelings, and I am not convinced that she really has feelings for either suitor. The romance for me is still in the development stage, and I am interested to see how it will go from here, and who she will pick.
*I struggled a bit with the pacing. The first part of the story is eerie and exciting, but then toward the middle, it lagged a bit. Then the end hits fast and furious, so fast that I almost felt like it was moving too quickly in comparison to the previous section. Still the book definitely ends with a bag and it is worth the wait.
*I was disappointed that after all the buildup regarding the missing diary that it is forgotten in the mayhem. I wanted to know after all the searching what was in that diary.
*I was hoping for a bit more hoodoo and manifestation of witchy powers, but that didn't happen. However, the book ends after it sets up the next book, which from what I gather will be filled with dark magic and hoodoo.
Dark Paradise was an creepy, mysterious NA read. Finally, a NA book that takes a new direction. This is a book with ghosts, hoodoo, murder and secrets in a small Southern town. If you like gothic, atmospheric reads this is one to check out.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
July 1, 2014
I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
It's not everyday you see a young adult book involving voodoo/hoodoo. I have to admit I wasn't sure about this book at first, but I was pleasantly surprised indeed. I am even more thrilled to find out it is a trilogy. Yay! And now for the story...
Mala LaCroix only wants to fit in with everyone else and not to be judged. But that's hard to do when everyone in town has judged her since birth, because of what family she descends from. Things go from bad to worse when she finds a dead girl in the bayou on her property. Especially when that girl's brother won't leave Mala alone.
Characters
Mala: I like her, but sometimes she came off a bit naïve or silly to me. That would be understandable if she wasn't already out of high school. But I really could empathize with her anguish over everything that happened to her. Sometimes I really wanted to shake her though. She was too passive at times, but maybe she knew it wasn't the time or place to fight back. Although I don't know why these townspeople would try to torment someone they thought was a witch. I kept expecting her to go all Marie Laveau on them.
Landry: He's adorkable one minute, and then a jerk the next. But I still love him! I enjoyed the chemistry between him and Mala.
Writing
Great writing! I loved the suspense and mystery in the story. It definitely kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I'm not going to lie, I cried a little bit. I loved the sassiness and sarcasm in the dialogue, as well as the character foils. there wasn't that much hoodoo or witchcraft in this book, but I'm sure there will be in the next one. Bravo Angie Sandro! Go ahead and tilt your hat girl! You're definitely the baddest!
I recommend highly BTW
It's not everyday you see a young adult book involving voodoo/hoodoo. I have to admit I wasn't sure about this book at first, but I was pleasantly surprised indeed. I am even more thrilled to find out it is a trilogy. Yay! And now for the story...
Mala LaCroix only wants to fit in with everyone else and not to be judged. But that's hard to do when everyone in town has judged her since birth, because of what family she descends from. Things go from bad to worse when she finds a dead girl in the bayou on her property. Especially when that girl's brother won't leave Mala alone.
Characters
Mala: I like her, but sometimes she came off a bit naïve or silly to me. That would be understandable if she wasn't already out of high school. But I really could empathize with her anguish over everything that happened to her. Sometimes I really wanted to shake her though. She was too passive at times, but maybe she knew it wasn't the time or place to fight back. Although I don't know why these townspeople would try to torment someone they thought was a witch. I kept expecting her to go all Marie Laveau on them.
Landry: He's adorkable one minute, and then a jerk the next. But I still love him! I enjoyed the chemistry between him and Mala.
Writing
Great writing! I loved the suspense and mystery in the story. It definitely kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I'm not going to lie, I cried a little bit. I loved the sassiness and sarcasm in the dialogue, as well as the character foils. there wasn't that much hoodoo or witchcraft in this book, but I'm sure there will be in the next one. Bravo Angie Sandro! Go ahead and tilt your hat girl! You're definitely the baddest!
I recommend highly BTW
June 30, 2014
Do you believe in ghosts trapped between the living and the dead? Take a trip through the Louisiana bayou, to an isolated area with roots firmly entrenched in the belief of voodoo, hoodoo and fear of those who possess the gift of magic. In a place where poverty, superstition and family history can mark a person as an outcast, or worse, a young woman from the wrong side of the bayou discovers the body of a local girl, and the mystery of what happened to her and who did it, take a backseat to the fear and accusations of a community grasping to find someone to blame. But Mala is determined to get to the bottom of this mystery or the ghost of the deceased may haunt her forever.
Mala has no hope of breaking free of the brand her family bears. Not believing she has received “the voodoo gift,” Mala longs for normalcy and acceptance, but when the distraught brother of the victim asks for her “help” to find the killer one minute and accuses her of being an evil murderer the next, Mala can see she is either being set up for failure or has the opportunity to dispel the witch rumors about her and her family once and for all. But could it be possible the only one wrong is her? Could she possess “the gift?” Has a bond formed between Landry and Mala that could give her the faith she needs to unravel this heinous mystery?
Angie Sandro has written a dark mystery tinged with magic and a little romantic tension that is fresh, different and very-well written. From page one forward, each layer of this mystery is carefully floated atop the next as we are taken to a community that time seems to have all but forgotten with its beliefs, superstitions and fears that if one knows magic, they are evil. Ms. Sandro writes with a dark and edgy style that shrouds her tale in tension and energy but populates it with characters who can be at once, frightening, quirky and unique. Mala is the perfect heroine, eager to please, desiring to be accepted, but willing to risk everything to put the victim’s soul to rest. Landry, is one of those characters you cannot be sure if you like or not, until he develops throughout this deviously complex plot. Ms. Sandros brings it all home with a flourish and deserves to take a bow for this one!
I received this ARC edition from Forever Yours in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: July 1, 2014
Publisher: Forever Yours
ISBN-10: 1455554820
ISBN-13: 978-1455554829
Paperback: 400 pages
Genre: NA Romance
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Mala has no hope of breaking free of the brand her family bears. Not believing she has received “the voodoo gift,” Mala longs for normalcy and acceptance, but when the distraught brother of the victim asks for her “help” to find the killer one minute and accuses her of being an evil murderer the next, Mala can see she is either being set up for failure or has the opportunity to dispel the witch rumors about her and her family once and for all. But could it be possible the only one wrong is her? Could she possess “the gift?” Has a bond formed between Landry and Mala that could give her the faith she needs to unravel this heinous mystery?
Angie Sandro has written a dark mystery tinged with magic and a little romantic tension that is fresh, different and very-well written. From page one forward, each layer of this mystery is carefully floated atop the next as we are taken to a community that time seems to have all but forgotten with its beliefs, superstitions and fears that if one knows magic, they are evil. Ms. Sandro writes with a dark and edgy style that shrouds her tale in tension and energy but populates it with characters who can be at once, frightening, quirky and unique. Mala is the perfect heroine, eager to please, desiring to be accepted, but willing to risk everything to put the victim’s soul to rest. Landry, is one of those characters you cannot be sure if you like or not, until he develops throughout this deviously complex plot. Ms. Sandros brings it all home with a flourish and deserves to take a bow for this one!
I received this ARC edition from Forever Yours in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: July 1, 2014
Publisher: Forever Yours
ISBN-10: 1455554820
ISBN-13: 978-1455554829
Paperback: 400 pages
Genre: NA Romance
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
November 28, 2014
4 stars
Dark Paradise is a debut novel from Ms Sandro and I can say for a debut, this novel exceed my expectation. Combine gothic theme, ghost, hoodoo, suspense, mystery, a little bit police procedural and drama, Dark Paradise make me can't stop reading its pages. With alternate POV narration from both h/H Malaise LaCroix and Landry Price, Ms Sandro bring us to the investagion behind Landry's sister, Lainey Prince murder.
Mara never believed in magic, less about hoodoo, even she comes from a long line of LaCroix witches. She had been battered from her mother's act, never realize that the reason behind her Mama's drunken state is because she can see and hear the spirit. So Mara's Mama always drink booze to dampen it. I like Mara and her voice. I can see that she can be strong but vulnerable as well. I like the fact that she is not TSTL and I understand her skepticism to her nature as a witch. I admire her strength to face her drunken mother and her sucks life. Even when Lainey's spirit haunting her and make her nuts, she never give up to search for Lainey's murder and the reason behind it.
Otherwise, I have a problem with Landry's voice. It's just me, but somehow in some chapter he sound like a girl. I know Landry is so fucked up, knowing his sister dead, his Mom act weird, his Dad is a zealot religious man that accuse Mara's Mom as being witch and his complicated feeling to Mara. Sometimes I want to shout to him "grow some balls, man!". I want Landry to become strong. I don't need him to become alpha macho, just at last he try to understand Mara and become a full grown adult man.
The mystery is well writen and the part about hoodoo and the ghost give me a heebies jeebies. And because Dark Paradise is NA adult, of course there are some delicious drama and angst. Sometimes I think that Dark Paradise have a YA vibes because the drama and some characters behave like teenager and it kinda grates my nerve. But I love the part about the hoodoo and the suspense make me can't stop reading.
Alas, the ending make me pulled my hair. One hint: I.Need.To.Read.The.Next.Book. Yeah, cliffie ending, some mystery still need explanation and no HEA. Ms Sandro get me invested to her story and I can't wait to know what happen next to Mara and Landry
e-ARC provided by NetGalley for honest review
Dark Paradise is a debut novel from Ms Sandro and I can say for a debut, this novel exceed my expectation. Combine gothic theme, ghost, hoodoo, suspense, mystery, a little bit police procedural and drama, Dark Paradise make me can't stop reading its pages. With alternate POV narration from both h/H Malaise LaCroix and Landry Price, Ms Sandro bring us to the investagion behind Landry's sister, Lainey Prince murder.
Mara never believed in magic, less about hoodoo, even she comes from a long line of LaCroix witches. She had been battered from her mother's act, never realize that the reason behind her Mama's drunken state is because she can see and hear the spirit. So Mara's Mama always drink booze to dampen it. I like Mara and her voice. I can see that she can be strong but vulnerable as well. I like the fact that she is not TSTL and I understand her skepticism to her nature as a witch. I admire her strength to face her drunken mother and her sucks life. Even when Lainey's spirit haunting her and make her nuts, she never give up to search for Lainey's murder and the reason behind it.
Otherwise, I have a problem with Landry's voice. It's just me, but somehow in some chapter he sound like a girl. I know Landry is so fucked up, knowing his sister dead, his Mom act weird, his Dad is a zealot religious man that accuse Mara's Mom as being witch and his complicated feeling to Mara. Sometimes I want to shout to him "grow some balls, man!". I want Landry to become strong. I don't need him to become alpha macho, just at last he try to understand Mara and become a full grown adult man.
The mystery is well writen and the part about hoodoo and the ghost give me a heebies jeebies. And because Dark Paradise is NA adult, of course there are some delicious drama and angst. Sometimes I think that Dark Paradise have a YA vibes because the drama and some characters behave like teenager and it kinda grates my nerve. But I love the part about the hoodoo and the suspense make me can't stop reading.
Alas, the ending make me pulled my hair. One hint: I.Need.To.Read.The.Next.Book. Yeah, cliffie ending, some mystery still need explanation and no HEA. Ms Sandro get me invested to her story and I can't wait to know what happen next to Mara and Landry
e-ARC provided by NetGalley for honest review
October 18, 2014
Considering I don't typically read this genre, the blurb piqued my curiosity and as it turned out, I enjoyed this quite a bit. Yes, I did!
This read like a movie in my head which is what added to my enjoyment I think. For me, this felt like a cross between the movies, Beautiful Creatures (haven't read the book, just FYI) and The Gift. 2 movies that I actually both really liked. Hello, supernatural, witches and ghosts!=)
The story opens up with quite a punch and it just builds up from there. Granted it did feel like a slow burn for me for the first 30% or so but as soon as the story hits its stride, I just kept reading. I really liked Mala and her spunk. I was rooting for Lance despite his weak moments. They both have their funny moments with their exchanges and inner musings. And another thing I really liked was the Deep South setting, feeling like a character on its own and adding to the experience.
It ends on a HFN note, and I'm curious enough to find out what would happen to these young 'uns.
*Courtesy of publisher via Netgalley*
This read like a movie in my head which is what added to my enjoyment I think. For me, this felt like a cross between the movies, Beautiful Creatures (haven't read the book, just FYI) and The Gift. 2 movies that I actually both really liked. Hello, supernatural, witches and ghosts!=)
The story opens up with quite a punch and it just builds up from there. Granted it did feel like a slow burn for me for the first 30% or so but as soon as the story hits its stride, I just kept reading. I really liked Mala and her spunk. I was rooting for Lance despite his weak moments. They both have their funny moments with their exchanges and inner musings. And another thing I really liked was the Deep South setting, feeling like a character on its own and adding to the experience.
It ends on a HFN note, and I'm curious enough to find out what would happen to these young 'uns.
*Courtesy of publisher via Netgalley*
June 27, 2014
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Good story and great characters. I'm also a fan of crime novels and supernatural books. Can't wait to see what happens next! Are Landry and Dena also able to see the dead people?
I really enjoyed reading this book. Good story and great characters. I'm also a fan of crime novels and supernatural books. Can't wait to see what happens next! Are Landry and Dena also able to see the dead people?
June 28, 2014
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Warning: possible spoilers.
It’s rumored that Mala LaCroix and her mother are witches. Even though Mala wants nothing more than to avoid the disapproval of some of the town folk (stemming also from the fact that her mother is a prostitute) and become a detective, she can’t avoid the fact that weird things are happening to her. After she pulls a dead body out of the swamp, she’s haunted by the victim. To make matters worse, her mother claims a death vision and starts talking to Mala of the curse to see the dead that she’s to inherit. Mala works together with the victim’s brother, who’s been secretly in love with Mala for a long time, to try to solve the mystery of the girl’s murder.
There was a lot I enjoyed about this book. The writing was good, and the atmosphere presented by the author was tangible. The story is a mix of genres: horror, mystery, supernatural, and romance. The horror parts were really enjoyable for me, and the mystery held my attention. In fact, I would have liked more of those parts in the book.
The main problem I had was that the mix of genres left the book feeling cluttered and unfocused. I wanted more of the horror, but it was overshadowed by a weird romance, and it wasn’t even a romance that I could sink my teeth into. Mala is sort of half invested in two different people through most of the book, and some of the romance scenes were awkward and forced. I’m not sure if that was because of the characters or the fact that these scenes were taking away from the areas of the story I wanted to see developed more.
Landry is a weird character. He’s angry one minute, then laughing the next. His grief over his sister is manic, but losing her doesn’t stop his weird obsession with Mala. At one point, the possibility that her “witchiness” is what enthralls him is brought up. It was a good idea, but I didn’t feel that it went anywhere. The story is told from either Mala’s or Landry’s point of view (depending on the chapter), and that first person pov helped me stay with the characters when they were being erratic, but it was a little disjointed in parts.
Overall, though, I enjoyed this book. The mystery was good and the scarier scenes were suitably creepy. I also appreciated that the author wasn’t afraid to kill off characters. The voodoo/hoodoo part was interesting, especially Mala’s aunt, who seemed to take on the appearance of a classic voodoo god if I read the description correctly. Or at least something familiar to it.
This is the first of a possible series (I only saw two books on Goodreads, so not sure how far the series will go), and it leaves on a cliffhanger. I’ll have to read the second book to find out what happens, but I’m also optimistic that some of the issues I had with this book will be typical “first book” problems that will smooth out in the second one.
Warning: possible spoilers.
It’s rumored that Mala LaCroix and her mother are witches. Even though Mala wants nothing more than to avoid the disapproval of some of the town folk (stemming also from the fact that her mother is a prostitute) and become a detective, she can’t avoid the fact that weird things are happening to her. After she pulls a dead body out of the swamp, she’s haunted by the victim. To make matters worse, her mother claims a death vision and starts talking to Mala of the curse to see the dead that she’s to inherit. Mala works together with the victim’s brother, who’s been secretly in love with Mala for a long time, to try to solve the mystery of the girl’s murder.
There was a lot I enjoyed about this book. The writing was good, and the atmosphere presented by the author was tangible. The story is a mix of genres: horror, mystery, supernatural, and romance. The horror parts were really enjoyable for me, and the mystery held my attention. In fact, I would have liked more of those parts in the book.
The main problem I had was that the mix of genres left the book feeling cluttered and unfocused. I wanted more of the horror, but it was overshadowed by a weird romance, and it wasn’t even a romance that I could sink my teeth into. Mala is sort of half invested in two different people through most of the book, and some of the romance scenes were awkward and forced. I’m not sure if that was because of the characters or the fact that these scenes were taking away from the areas of the story I wanted to see developed more.
Landry is a weird character. He’s angry one minute, then laughing the next. His grief over his sister is manic, but losing her doesn’t stop his weird obsession with Mala. At one point, the possibility that her “witchiness” is what enthralls him is brought up. It was a good idea, but I didn’t feel that it went anywhere. The story is told from either Mala’s or Landry’s point of view (depending on the chapter), and that first person pov helped me stay with the characters when they were being erratic, but it was a little disjointed in parts.
Overall, though, I enjoyed this book. The mystery was good and the scarier scenes were suitably creepy. I also appreciated that the author wasn’t afraid to kill off characters. The voodoo/hoodoo part was interesting, especially Mala’s aunt, who seemed to take on the appearance of a classic voodoo god if I read the description correctly. Or at least something familiar to it.
This is the first of a possible series (I only saw two books on Goodreads, so not sure how far the series will go), and it leaves on a cliffhanger. I’ll have to read the second book to find out what happens, but I’m also optimistic that some of the issues I had with this book will be typical “first book” problems that will smooth out in the second one.
July 19, 2014
This review can also be found on my blog: A Match Made in Heaven
I really did not enjoy this book. At first I enjoyed Mala and Landry, but the story just did not draw me in at all. The magic was introduced really oddly, and I hated Mala's mother and George, both secondary characters to Mala and Landry. I hated the whole town and how they ostracized Mala because of her mother's reputation. It was all really infuriating.
Mala and Landry's relationship was odd and seemed to progress in awkward jerking motions. At first they seemed to not get along very well, and then suddenly they are making out and I was like, "Whoa! What's going on?" But then they start yelling at each other again. But I still like them as individuals and as a couple. Landry was extremely troubled by his home life, but still funny and cocky. And Mala was pretty spunky and I love my heroine's with spunk. And they seemed to calm each other and help them deal with all the shit in their lives.
But all the shit in their lives still refused to leave them alone, and their families could not accept their relationship and it got in the way. Unfortunately it left Mala and Landry torn apart and introduced a love-triangle in the end, which really makes me angry, especially since I hated George. Although the book featured alternating POVs between Mala and Landry, so I am fairly certain that she will still end up with Landry in the end. But I don't think I have the energy to continue with this series.
ARC provided by NetGalley on behalf of Grand Central Publishing, in exchange for an honest review.
I really did not enjoy this book. At first I enjoyed Mala and Landry, but the story just did not draw me in at all. The magic was introduced really oddly, and I hated Mala's mother and George, both secondary characters to Mala and Landry. I hated the whole town and how they ostracized Mala because of her mother's reputation. It was all really infuriating.
Mala and Landry's relationship was odd and seemed to progress in awkward jerking motions. At first they seemed to not get along very well, and then suddenly they are making out and I was like, "Whoa! What's going on?" But then they start yelling at each other again. But I still like them as individuals and as a couple. Landry was extremely troubled by his home life, but still funny and cocky. And Mala was pretty spunky and I love my heroine's with spunk. And they seemed to calm each other and help them deal with all the shit in their lives.
But all the shit in their lives still refused to leave them alone, and their families could not accept their relationship and it got in the way. Unfortunately it left Mala and Landry torn apart and introduced a love-triangle in the end, which really makes me angry, especially since I hated George. Although the book featured alternating POVs between Mala and Landry, so I am fairly certain that she will still end up with Landry in the end. But I don't think I have the energy to continue with this series.
ARC provided by NetGalley on behalf of Grand Central Publishing, in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2014
The action starts on the very first page of Dark Paradise when Mala finds the body in her bayou. And the suspense and interest builds from there. The list of suspects continues through the whole book and leaves no character safe. Every time you think the story will slow down another twist comes to light. This story is one of the best mysteries I've read in a long time. It kept me guessing until the page-turning end. And what an end. I have to gag myself to keep from giving away fantastic spoilers. I only hate that I have to wait for the sequel to see all the loose ends concluded.
The romantic tension between the main characters Mala and Landry also never lifts. Their on-again, off-again love attraction will keep you guessing just as much as the murder.
Set in Louisanna, this book is rich with local color and rich voice. There's gators and quicksand. Swamps and crayfish. Soul-possessing ghosts and creepy hoodoo queens.
I can't recommend this story enough.
Thanks to Net Galley for providing my copy.
The romantic tension between the main characters Mala and Landry also never lifts. Their on-again, off-again love attraction will keep you guessing just as much as the murder.
Set in Louisanna, this book is rich with local color and rich voice. There's gators and quicksand. Swamps and crayfish. Soul-possessing ghosts and creepy hoodoo queens.
I can't recommend this story enough.
Thanks to Net Galley for providing my copy.
July 11, 2014
3.75 Stars...Well written, fresh, with plenty of unexpected twists. The characters well-drawn and colorful. I felt that the supernatural aspect was well done. I do admit to having to look back during the dramatic ending to see who's pov it was, since things were a bit chaotic. Don't expect an HEA in this book, but it's not exactly a cliffie, either.
July 2, 2014
This is a book that had me suckered in from the get-go. First of all, look at the cover. It's just gorgeous. It's so simple and yet is so striking, and it would definitely grab my attention if I saw it on display in a book store. And then of course, we move to the story itself. Dead bodies, magic, and budding romance? Yes to all of that, please.
What really stood out to me the most in this book was the setting. I used to frequently visit my dad down in Louisiana, and I've grown to be a sucker for southern settings. Dark Paradise didn't disappoint. The language and descriptions of the areas around Mala are brilliant. From the Spanish moss hanging down in the trees to the stagnant, oddly colored waters of the bayou and the wet heat that seems to drape over the entire landscape, the language of this book draws you ever closer into the plot. Of course, the characters and powers are well described too. All together, I was just really impressed with the flow of the vision and story that Angie Sandro wanted to tell and how well it came out on paper.
I was also really impressed how this book managed to blend quite a few different genres together into one really good story. While I am a big fan of southern fiction, fantasy, New Adult, and paranormal books, I have a history of being not all too crazy about books involving murders and crime. This book made it work. From the moment when Mala stumbles onto the body in the bayou, I was curious and eager to find out what sort of foul play was afoot. I really can't put it into words, but somehow the superstition of the south, romance, fantasy and a good ole fashioned corpse join together to make an intriguing story that is hard to put down. The suspense killed me and made me excited to find out there will be another book to continue the plot.
I really liked Mala. She was set in her goals and her views, and when presented with new information they changed accordingly. Though I didn't always agree with her decisions, and sometimes I thought she came off as a bit young for her age, I was cheering for her. I also really liked the way her relationship with Landry pans out. He was a believable mix of sweet and infuriatingly irritating that made him endearing. Even the more secondary characters like local police and family members were memorable and well written.
Although my pros far outweigh the cons when it comes to Dark Paradise, one thing I did notice was that at some parts the dialogue felt a bit forced or a bit unrealistic. However, it wasn't often enough to really hinder my reading experience too much. I think this is part of what made Mala come off as a bit naive or young. While I did notice this more than once, it didn't put me off from finishing the book, nor will it stop me from picking up the second book in the series.
If you're a fan of darker themed YA/NA books, enjoy magic and hoodoo, a steamy romance, or a suspenseful mystery with forces that may reach beyond our mortal world, than this is definitely a book worth checking out.
Thank you to Netgalley and Forever Yours for my copy in exchange for my honest review. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
What really stood out to me the most in this book was the setting. I used to frequently visit my dad down in Louisiana, and I've grown to be a sucker for southern settings. Dark Paradise didn't disappoint. The language and descriptions of the areas around Mala are brilliant. From the Spanish moss hanging down in the trees to the stagnant, oddly colored waters of the bayou and the wet heat that seems to drape over the entire landscape, the language of this book draws you ever closer into the plot. Of course, the characters and powers are well described too. All together, I was just really impressed with the flow of the vision and story that Angie Sandro wanted to tell and how well it came out on paper.
I was also really impressed how this book managed to blend quite a few different genres together into one really good story. While I am a big fan of southern fiction, fantasy, New Adult, and paranormal books, I have a history of being not all too crazy about books involving murders and crime. This book made it work. From the moment when Mala stumbles onto the body in the bayou, I was curious and eager to find out what sort of foul play was afoot. I really can't put it into words, but somehow the superstition of the south, romance, fantasy and a good ole fashioned corpse join together to make an intriguing story that is hard to put down. The suspense killed me and made me excited to find out there will be another book to continue the plot.
I really liked Mala. She was set in her goals and her views, and when presented with new information they changed accordingly. Though I didn't always agree with her decisions, and sometimes I thought she came off as a bit young for her age, I was cheering for her. I also really liked the way her relationship with Landry pans out. He was a believable mix of sweet and infuriatingly irritating that made him endearing. Even the more secondary characters like local police and family members were memorable and well written.
Although my pros far outweigh the cons when it comes to Dark Paradise, one thing I did notice was that at some parts the dialogue felt a bit forced or a bit unrealistic. However, it wasn't often enough to really hinder my reading experience too much. I think this is part of what made Mala come off as a bit naive or young. While I did notice this more than once, it didn't put me off from finishing the book, nor will it stop me from picking up the second book in the series.
If you're a fan of darker themed YA/NA books, enjoy magic and hoodoo, a steamy romance, or a suspenseful mystery with forces that may reach beyond our mortal world, than this is definitely a book worth checking out.
Thank you to Netgalley and Forever Yours for my copy in exchange for my honest review. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
June 30, 2014
There’s this thing that seems to happen a lot in books that I just don’t understand. Reading these books makes me very angry and cranky. This book certainly did that. Clearly I am just not the target audience because I know there are people who enjoy guys like this.
The book started off fantastically, I’ll give it that. I grew up in Florida and I have a healthy fear of gators. Mala is much braver than me. And though there are no gators around, she finds a dead body instead. Great opening, right? Yeah, well, it only goes downhill from there, and it’s really a shame because I love a good paranormal mystery set in the south. I’ll even take a good paranormal romance set in the south. This was neither of those things. Or I suppose it could have been the former, but I was way too distracted by a cast of whiny children, and a love interest that Mala should have been running far, far away from.
Mala makes it very clear to the reader, more than once, that she’s avoided Landry because he’s all creepy and stalkerish and she doesn’t like the way he makes her tummy feel. She’s frightened of him. FRIGHTENED. Absolutely nothing Landry does in this book sways me from those feelings Mala mentioned. Landry is absolutely all of those things. He’s the biggest asshole and a controlling freak and he has some serious anger management issues. And there is actually a point in the book where he basically threatens to kill her. At least he heavily implied that he could and no one would suspect him or miss her. AND THEN LATER ON IN THE BOOK (after they’ve started making out and stuff) SHE ACTUALLY CLAIMS TO FEEL SAFE WITH HIM. WTF? What did I miss? This absolutely does not make sense to me.
And let me just say that the fact that his sister just died is absolutely not an excuse for him to act this way. Not that it matters. He clearly acted this way before she died. I guess Landry was supposed to be like an alpha male hero type. I don’t know if that’s what he was supposed to be that I think that the alpha male hero type needs a more definitive definition because Landry was clearly not it. I can’t understand why Mala would completely ignore the fact that Landry used to frighten her just because he’s hot.
Let’s forget Landry and Mala for a moment, even though they are totally included in this. The rest of the cast read like a bunch of whiny children. And they are not children. There wasn’t a single person I cared about, rooted for, or took any sort of interest in.
I had a hard time getting past Landry in this book, but even so, I feel the book has so much potential and just fell short. I’m really sad about that because I was so excited about it. The title and the summary drew me in, but I was incredibly disappointed.
Review copy provided by NetGalley and Forever Yours.
The book started off fantastically, I’ll give it that. I grew up in Florida and I have a healthy fear of gators. Mala is much braver than me. And though there are no gators around, she finds a dead body instead. Great opening, right? Yeah, well, it only goes downhill from there, and it’s really a shame because I love a good paranormal mystery set in the south. I’ll even take a good paranormal romance set in the south. This was neither of those things. Or I suppose it could have been the former, but I was way too distracted by a cast of whiny children, and a love interest that Mala should have been running far, far away from.
Mala makes it very clear to the reader, more than once, that she’s avoided Landry because he’s all creepy and stalkerish and she doesn’t like the way he makes her tummy feel. She’s frightened of him. FRIGHTENED. Absolutely nothing Landry does in this book sways me from those feelings Mala mentioned. Landry is absolutely all of those things. He’s the biggest asshole and a controlling freak and he has some serious anger management issues. And there is actually a point in the book where he basically threatens to kill her. At least he heavily implied that he could and no one would suspect him or miss her. AND THEN LATER ON IN THE BOOK (after they’ve started making out and stuff) SHE ACTUALLY CLAIMS TO FEEL SAFE WITH HIM. WTF? What did I miss? This absolutely does not make sense to me.
And let me just say that the fact that his sister just died is absolutely not an excuse for him to act this way. Not that it matters. He clearly acted this way before she died. I guess Landry was supposed to be like an alpha male hero type. I don’t know if that’s what he was supposed to be that I think that the alpha male hero type needs a more definitive definition because Landry was clearly not it. I can’t understand why Mala would completely ignore the fact that Landry used to frighten her just because he’s hot.
Let’s forget Landry and Mala for a moment, even though they are totally included in this. The rest of the cast read like a bunch of whiny children. And they are not children. There wasn’t a single person I cared about, rooted for, or took any sort of interest in.
I had a hard time getting past Landry in this book, but even so, I feel the book has so much potential and just fell short. I’m really sad about that because I was so excited about it. The title and the summary drew me in, but I was incredibly disappointed.
Review copy provided by NetGalley and Forever Yours.
January 7, 2015
You can view the rest of the review on my blog Home of a Book Lover
Who won't fall in love with the cover of this book? I really loved it and it is catchy. Simple but elegant. Whoever is the designer, he/she did a really good job in here. Anyway, I am not sure how will I review this book. I am having a hard time.
Well, this book made me re-think if I will continue reading or not, it is not because the book has a bad story or the book doesn't fit in my criteria, but it is because the book is kinda creepy to me. The talk about ghosts and possession creeps me out and "a dead body floating in the bayou", what can you expect about that??? It was scary!!! I imagined right away but *applause* to my bravery I finished it and it was worth it. Seriously, it was worth my time. I love how the book was written, well described so my imagination works really well. I like everything from the creepy part of the story up to the romance part. I like the puzzle in this book. I was reading but I am also trying to fit everything to solve the mystery of who killed Landry's sister. Every time the clue is given I'll try to connect the scenes then guess and the twist of the story is really nice who will think that will happen in the end of the book? The ending made me sad and happy at the same time.
Who won't fall in love with the cover of this book? I really loved it and it is catchy. Simple but elegant. Whoever is the designer, he/she did a really good job in here. Anyway, I am not sure how will I review this book. I am having a hard time.
Well, this book made me re-think if I will continue reading or not, it is not because the book has a bad story or the book doesn't fit in my criteria, but it is because the book is kinda creepy to me. The talk about ghosts and possession creeps me out and "a dead body floating in the bayou", what can you expect about that??? It was scary!!! I imagined right away but *applause* to my bravery I finished it and it was worth it. Seriously, it was worth my time. I love how the book was written, well described so my imagination works really well. I like everything from the creepy part of the story up to the romance part. I like the puzzle in this book. I was reading but I am also trying to fit everything to solve the mystery of who killed Landry's sister. Every time the clue is given I'll try to connect the scenes then guess and the twist of the story is really nice who will think that will happen in the end of the book? The ending made me sad and happy at the same time.
July 12, 2014
This book is not romantic. It’s not a fantastical story of beautiful creatures and a love too powerful to be contained. Paradise is anything but. This is a story that’s raw, dirty and frightening, and at first, I couldn’t really decide if I liked it. Then I read the second half of the book and came to the opinion that it’s pretty fantastic!
In short, it was a thrill ride. I was anxiously waiting to see how the story unfolded but at the same time, I felt a little queasy for most of the book. I don’t usually do raw. I’m one of those people who want beauty and wonder seeping out of my stories but this one kind of grabbed hold of my gut and pulled me through until the landscape was flying past me and I was pretty sure I was going to be sick when it finally stopped moving.
If you are cool with swamps, decaying bodies, foul odors, vomiting, tobacco spitting, and overall unpleasantness in your stories, definitely give this book a try. Hoodoo contains a lot of icky elements people, read at your own risk! But if you’re good with that, and you don’t mind a male love interest that acts like a total psycho at least half the time, you’ll be in for a pleasant read.
If, however, you like your vampires to sparkle and smell like roses and you want a character to swoon over, this is not your story.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In short, it was a thrill ride. I was anxiously waiting to see how the story unfolded but at the same time, I felt a little queasy for most of the book. I don’t usually do raw. I’m one of those people who want beauty and wonder seeping out of my stories but this one kind of grabbed hold of my gut and pulled me through until the landscape was flying past me and I was pretty sure I was going to be sick when it finally stopped moving.
If you are cool with swamps, decaying bodies, foul odors, vomiting, tobacco spitting, and overall unpleasantness in your stories, definitely give this book a try. Hoodoo contains a lot of icky elements people, read at your own risk! But if you’re good with that, and you don’t mind a male love interest that acts like a total psycho at least half the time, you’ll be in for a pleasant read.
If, however, you like your vampires to sparkle and smell like roses and you want a character to swoon over, this is not your story.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2014
I love when a story, when an author, can take me by surprise. When the unexpected turns into something wonderful dark and rich.
When the bayou shows it's true colors. The horrors of the unknown and the magic of the whatifs.
This is a debut novel for Sandro and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with it. This isn't your typical YA paranormal mystery read. It is dark and gritty and completely messes with your mind. It has a pretty fast paced plot as well as one heck of a tangled romance in it, that while isn't the main focus of the story, does have a spot light without taking over the rest of the plot.
I absolutely loved the rich atmosphere that Sandro created as we feel the darkness of the bayou and a town filled with traditions and old ways as well as superstition and hate of the unknown.
Mala was instantly relatable and likable and I loved her right away. She is a rough and tough kind of girl that doesn't let anyone or anything get her down. She hasn't had an easy life but she fights for all that she does have and all that she wants to be.
This novel was wonderful done and managed to not only capture my full attention but hold onto it until the very last page. I was completely enthralled with the story and didn't want it to end.
When the bayou shows it's true colors. The horrors of the unknown and the magic of the whatifs.
This is a debut novel for Sandro and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with it. This isn't your typical YA paranormal mystery read. It is dark and gritty and completely messes with your mind. It has a pretty fast paced plot as well as one heck of a tangled romance in it, that while isn't the main focus of the story, does have a spot light without taking over the rest of the plot.
I absolutely loved the rich atmosphere that Sandro created as we feel the darkness of the bayou and a town filled with traditions and old ways as well as superstition and hate of the unknown.
Mala was instantly relatable and likable and I loved her right away. She is a rough and tough kind of girl that doesn't let anyone or anything get her down. She hasn't had an easy life but she fights for all that she does have and all that she wants to be.
This novel was wonderful done and managed to not only capture my full attention but hold onto it until the very last page. I was completely enthralled with the story and didn't want it to end.
March 24, 2015
Simply put, I loved this book. After finishing, I had to force myself to pause and not buy the sequels immediately because my to read long is long...but this book was amazing.
A gothic Southern read, DARK PARADISE tosses you into the life of Mala - the daughter of the town's voodoo witch...and if that wasn't enough to bear, her Mama is also a prostitute. All Mala wants to do is live her life and follow her dreams of working in crime enforcement, but everything seems to be getting in the way of that.
Including that dead body she found.
Who killed the girl? It's up to her to figure it out before it affects her life even more. Before the whole town decides that she did it.
Every character we meet is more complex than the first look brings. Every character is hiding secrets. Is one of them hiding who the killer is?
This is a dark mystery, leading you deep into the swamps of Louisiana, with atmosphere behind every word. It reads like a movie - unfolding before you naturally, drawing you in like...magic.
A gothic Southern read, DARK PARADISE tosses you into the life of Mala - the daughter of the town's voodoo witch...and if that wasn't enough to bear, her Mama is also a prostitute. All Mala wants to do is live her life and follow her dreams of working in crime enforcement, but everything seems to be getting in the way of that.
Including that dead body she found.
Who killed the girl? It's up to her to figure it out before it affects her life even more. Before the whole town decides that she did it.
Every character we meet is more complex than the first look brings. Every character is hiding secrets. Is one of them hiding who the killer is?
This is a dark mystery, leading you deep into the swamps of Louisiana, with atmosphere behind every word. It reads like a movie - unfolding before you naturally, drawing you in like...magic.
June 14, 2014
3.5/5 stars
Super duper suspenseful with a lot of magical elements interwoven. I really liked Mala and hated how everyone always put her under stereotypical categories based on her family without even trying to get to know her. I had a lot of conflicting thoughts about Landry...sometimes I liked him but sometimes he acted like a big fat jerk. Georgie was a bit controversial too, but I kind of wish Mala would give him a chance. Just a tiny one. Also, I wish that some things were clearer, I won't say what because it'll spoil the story...either way Magnolia is one weird witch. I can't wait for the second book because it kind of ended on a hanging note. :)
Read my reviews at:
https://extreemeobsessed.blogspot.com
Super duper suspenseful with a lot of magical elements interwoven. I really liked Mala and hated how everyone always put her under stereotypical categories based on her family without even trying to get to know her. I had a lot of conflicting thoughts about Landry...sometimes I liked him but sometimes he acted like a big fat jerk. Georgie was a bit controversial too, but I kind of wish Mala would give him a chance. Just a tiny one. Also, I wish that some things were clearer, I won't say what because it'll spoil the story...either way Magnolia is one weird witch. I can't wait for the second book because it kind of ended on a hanging note. :)
Read my reviews at:
https://extreemeobsessed.blogspot.com
January 2, 2015
Intriguing characters set in a tangible setting that make me want to take a trip to Louisiana, except I'm just a little too scared to stay. Angie manages to give a dark feel to her story that recalls memories of watching Supernatural and loving the dark and gritty parts. She has a talent for turning phrases on their heads and making them fresh and totally unique to her characters. Several times I turned to my husband and read her lines out loud because I was in awe of her creativity.
When the story ended I wanted to immediately one-click the next book in the series. With her fresh writing style that was sexy and funny yet still sent chills down my spine and made me believe the room actually did get a little colder, I can't wait for what this writer has for me next.
When the story ended I wanted to immediately one-click the next book in the series. With her fresh writing style that was sexy and funny yet still sent chills down my spine and made me believe the room actually did get a little colder, I can't wait for what this writer has for me next.
September 11, 2014
I love this book! The scenery is so vivid you can feel the Louisiana humidity on your skin. The budding romance between Mala and Landry is steamy and the mystery of the death of Landry's sister kept me turning the pages.
June 19, 2014
I received Dark Paradise as an ARC copy, it was different than what I normally read.
The cover gave me some excitement because it gave little away.
I have to say Dark Paradise left me breathless and begging for more so much more!
It starts off with Mala finding a body of a beautiful young girl in the Bayou in her backyard.
Mala is such a sweet girl she gave the book such a great vibe.
She is going to school to become a cop and she is a tomboy who can cook a mean gumbo.
She is the daughter of the town whore and her mama wouldn't care less about her.
Oh and the town folk think that the women in Mala's family come from a long line of WITCHES!
Eh Ya Louisiana and maybe witches makes one hell of a story!
The girl she discovered happens to be the Lainey the sister of a classmate named Landry.
Landry is the first bite of a yummy Beignet that you cant but help but want a second helping of.
Landry has had a massive crush on Mala and has wanted her more than anyone just never has gotten the courage to talk to her but he sorta stalks her LOL.It is kinda cute in a weird way!
"If it's a choice between my family's bullshit and your drama,I'll pick you any day."- Landry
Oh and I cant forget about George he is a deputy who is leading the case of Lainey's murder
I may add he did date Lainey a few months before she died. Mala has had the biggest crush on him since she was in high school. There is something about George I was just not feeling I didn't care for him at all and I still have this odd vibe about him.Mala seems to like him tho so I know he will be around awhile.
What I loved about the story is it left you in suspense but not so where you were going crazy wanting to throw it down and scream.I cant really tell you much because than I will give it away.
I can tell you that Mala isn't your average girl and she does see things you or me wouldn't see on a daily basis. Landry also plays a huge role and what an amazing connection Mala and Landry have it is just so strong when the book ended I was like DANG IT ANGIE seriously I sorta screamed that out loud and my son cam running in say "Mom are you OK" LOL it was pretty funny!!
Angie left off with a BOOM and I don't think I can wait until the next book so I am playing little
scenarios in my head. I am team Mala and Landry all the way, and this story was
a all out FABULOUS READ!
June 27, 2014
But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams. - William Butler Yeats
There are souls which fall from heaven like flowers, but ere they bloom are crushed under the foul tread of some brutal hoof. - Jean Paul
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy. - Hamlet (1.5.167-8), Hamlet to Horatio
The nature of evil. Dissected, pulled apart, studied, and still, no one really knows, do we? Evil is the pedophile and the serial killer. The crazed and the cruel. The dark shadows that walk the night. We might agree on that. But what of those dark, quiet evils that live next door? The ones who smile to your face and wish you good morning, while horrors live in their basements – and the basements of their souls?
Malaise LaCroix never really had a chance, even before she was born. The daughter of the local whore and ‘hoodoo woman’ in backwoods Louisiana, Malaise, or Mala for short, ekes out a living in the swamps, fishing and watching for the ubiquitous gators that can pull her under and kill her in a heartbeat. But it is the darkness and shadows, the crazed and the cruel, who may take her life in the long run. For Mala has found a body, floating in the swamp. A body that some very rich, and very powerful – and very mad – people do not want found.
Lainey Prince is the daughter of the Reverend Prince, he of righteousness and purity, the king of the pulpit and voice of god. Finding her floating in the swamp, Mala pulls her out and calls the police, thereby dropping herself into a whirlwind of terror. For the townsfolk are all determined to blame her for Lainey’s death. She is, after all, the daughter of a black hoodoo witch, right? So the righteous and the pure of heart (can we all hear a halleluiah, amen?) determine to punish Mala and her mother, Jasmine. And purity of heart has nothing to do with these people who hide behind their “faith” in order to commit the most horrendous of evils. Funny how religion works that way. . . Things become even more interesting when Landry, Lainey’s younger brother and rising football star, comes to Mala, determined to learn the truth no matter what it may be. Did Mala really kill Lainey in some sort of black rite? Or is the woman he has loved from afar for so very long truly innocent? What Landry learns is more than he ever could have expected. For Lainey might be dead. But she is far from gone. And she is one very unhappy spirit.
Dark Paradise grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let me go. Of course, I am a sucker for a mystery/suspense/thriller novel set in Louisiana. Curled up in my chair, the lights out except for the glow from my reader, soft southern Blues playing, I immersed myself in the story, walking with Mala through the swamps, smelling the scents and hearing the cry of the insects, the grunts and roars from the gators and razorbacks, feeling the heat against my skin, even as the temperature of the night drop lower and the crickets begin to sing outside my window. The faces of the characters, their wrinkles from the harsh weather and the harsh life, the cold eyes and superstitious hatreds all come clear in my mind, rising up like mist in my memory.
Visits to Angie Sandro’s father’s family in Louisiana inspired Dark Paradise, and those visits flow through in her writing. There are no missed notes, no cliché to her story. Instead, there is a touch of realism to the story which sooths and comforts the knowledgeable when it comes to the quirks and fallacies, the kindness and the cruelty of the Southern mind.
There is only one thing that really itched my “What the Huh?” spot. As LaCroixs, Jasmine and Mala descend from a long line of “witchy women” which reaches back to the shores of Africa. Tied to the Loa Baron LaCroix, the women take his name, and supposedly, his spirit as well. Much like the Loa Baron Samedi, Baron LaCroix, also one of the five Ghede, are often rude, crude and oversexed, but they are not by nature evil. LaCroix is rather more fun-loving with a deep sense of play. Something that isn’t depicted in his interactions in this novel. Be that as it may, a person who shares no knowledge of Voudon, of the cultures and rituals of this ancient religion, should not be bothered by this not-quite-realistic portrayal. Artistic license forgives much, and in this case it pushes forward the story in a way both interesting and frightening by turns. And yes, Ms. Sandro, I do get your twisted sense of humour! Overall? I completely enjoyed the book and am looking forward to Dark Sacrifice. Bring on the hoodoo, woman, I am ready!
I received this book from Grand Central Publishing in return for an honest review. Honestly? I loved it. If you love what I like to call Southern Suspense, you will undoubtedly like this book. It publishes JULY 1, 2014 so be sure to pick it up!
There are souls which fall from heaven like flowers, but ere they bloom are crushed under the foul tread of some brutal hoof. - Jean Paul
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy. - Hamlet (1.5.167-8), Hamlet to Horatio
The nature of evil. Dissected, pulled apart, studied, and still, no one really knows, do we? Evil is the pedophile and the serial killer. The crazed and the cruel. The dark shadows that walk the night. We might agree on that. But what of those dark, quiet evils that live next door? The ones who smile to your face and wish you good morning, while horrors live in their basements – and the basements of their souls?
Malaise LaCroix never really had a chance, even before she was born. The daughter of the local whore and ‘hoodoo woman’ in backwoods Louisiana, Malaise, or Mala for short, ekes out a living in the swamps, fishing and watching for the ubiquitous gators that can pull her under and kill her in a heartbeat. But it is the darkness and shadows, the crazed and the cruel, who may take her life in the long run. For Mala has found a body, floating in the swamp. A body that some very rich, and very powerful – and very mad – people do not want found.
Lainey Prince is the daughter of the Reverend Prince, he of righteousness and purity, the king of the pulpit and voice of god. Finding her floating in the swamp, Mala pulls her out and calls the police, thereby dropping herself into a whirlwind of terror. For the townsfolk are all determined to blame her for Lainey’s death. She is, after all, the daughter of a black hoodoo witch, right? So the righteous and the pure of heart (can we all hear a halleluiah, amen?) determine to punish Mala and her mother, Jasmine. And purity of heart has nothing to do with these people who hide behind their “faith” in order to commit the most horrendous of evils. Funny how religion works that way. . . Things become even more interesting when Landry, Lainey’s younger brother and rising football star, comes to Mala, determined to learn the truth no matter what it may be. Did Mala really kill Lainey in some sort of black rite? Or is the woman he has loved from afar for so very long truly innocent? What Landry learns is more than he ever could have expected. For Lainey might be dead. But she is far from gone. And she is one very unhappy spirit.
Dark Paradise grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let me go. Of course, I am a sucker for a mystery/suspense/thriller novel set in Louisiana. Curled up in my chair, the lights out except for the glow from my reader, soft southern Blues playing, I immersed myself in the story, walking with Mala through the swamps, smelling the scents and hearing the cry of the insects, the grunts and roars from the gators and razorbacks, feeling the heat against my skin, even as the temperature of the night drop lower and the crickets begin to sing outside my window. The faces of the characters, their wrinkles from the harsh weather and the harsh life, the cold eyes and superstitious hatreds all come clear in my mind, rising up like mist in my memory.
Visits to Angie Sandro’s father’s family in Louisiana inspired Dark Paradise, and those visits flow through in her writing. There are no missed notes, no cliché to her story. Instead, there is a touch of realism to the story which sooths and comforts the knowledgeable when it comes to the quirks and fallacies, the kindness and the cruelty of the Southern mind.
There is only one thing that really itched my “What the Huh?” spot. As LaCroixs, Jasmine and Mala descend from a long line of “witchy women” which reaches back to the shores of Africa. Tied to the Loa Baron LaCroix, the women take his name, and supposedly, his spirit as well. Much like the Loa Baron Samedi, Baron LaCroix, also one of the five Ghede, are often rude, crude and oversexed, but they are not by nature evil. LaCroix is rather more fun-loving with a deep sense of play. Something that isn’t depicted in his interactions in this novel. Be that as it may, a person who shares no knowledge of Voudon, of the cultures and rituals of this ancient religion, should not be bothered by this not-quite-realistic portrayal. Artistic license forgives much, and in this case it pushes forward the story in a way both interesting and frightening by turns. And yes, Ms. Sandro, I do get your twisted sense of humour! Overall? I completely enjoyed the book and am looking forward to Dark Sacrifice. Bring on the hoodoo, woman, I am ready!
I received this book from Grand Central Publishing in return for an honest review. Honestly? I loved it. If you love what I like to call Southern Suspense, you will undoubtedly like this book. It publishes JULY 1, 2014 so be sure to pick it up!
December 5, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this story. To be fair I'll just share my impressions without retelling the story as it's been told. It's a slow start thought it vaults you into the story with a mystery, it's unfolding was slow. The characters willfull ignorance and the leads painfully immaturity left me exasperatingly frustrated. The last 6 chapters got better.
I struggled to finished this book. The desire to push through in hopes of the storyline evolving kept me plugging on. It took me 5 days to finish this book when my usual time is 1½-2 days, and between breaks in my work day. Onward to book 📕2, DARK SACRIFICE.
I struggled to finished this book. The desire to push through in hopes of the storyline evolving kept me plugging on. It took me 5 days to finish this book when my usual time is 1½-2 days, and between breaks in my work day. Onward to book 📕2, DARK SACRIFICE.
June 7, 2015
Mala has lived a hard life out in the swamp with her mother. Mala works two jobs and goes to school on scholarship so she can finally meet her dreams of being a police detective. Meanwhile, her mom works as a prostitute and “crafts” spells on the side for some extra money. While in the swamp to check her traps for fish, Mala stumbles on a dead body of a girl. Mala doesn’t know her, but soon enough she is involved in the mess of the girl’s murder, is haunted by the dead girl, and stalked by the girls devastated brother Laundry. Mala may be in over her head.
I was instantly pulled into this book. I found myself thinking about it all day when attempting to do silly things like work. I can’t say this was the best book ever, but I was engrossed with the twists and turns of the story. I expected a simple romantic thriller, but that was not at all what the book was. The story was equal parts murder mystery and supernatural battle, with a dash of angsty romance thrown in.
I thought I had the killer figured out about 100 pages into the book. I was absolutely convinced I figured it, watching them for nefarious actions all the time. But I was completely wrong, which doesn’t happen too often in my book predictions.
The romance was, for lack of a better word, complicated. Mala has the hots for officer George, who she has wanted for years, but he wants nothing in return from her. And here comes Laundry, who has wanted Mala for years from a distance, but has never spoken to her. Mala and Laundry are both so conflicting and all over the place, at times I felt like I had whiplash from the reversal of their feelings. To be honest, I rooted for the two of them to be together, societal expectations and personal demons be damned.
The book was told from both Mala and Laundry’s points of view, which I love the multiple perspectives in a story, that way I as the reader don’t miss out on anything. Mala was a little hard headed, stubborn, and had anger problems. She hardly ever thought before she reacted in pretty much every situation. At times she called Laundry bipolar, but that is the pot calling the kettle black. She was all over the place with her feeling. One second she hated someone, the next she wanted to be with them. For example, she has wanted George for years, and Laundry calls him her boyfriend and she denies everything. She was hot and cold. I get that life was hard for Mala, and I mean hard, from physical abuse at home, ridicule from the small town, hodo/paranormal exposure, and feelings of isolation and loneliness overall. She was a fighter; I am just not sure I agreed with what she was fighting for. Laundry on the other hand, knew how he felt about Mala (minus the fact he accused her of being a witch and a killer and believed it), but never really acted on it. I wanted to yell at him to just grab her and confess his love and kiss her! But alas, I don’t always get what I want.
The one downside to the book was at times a little choppy. I felt a little jerked around by the sudden changes between actions, it did not flow smoothly, so at times I was confused. Not enough of an issue to make me not like the book, but just a distraction.
I was not completely happy with how the book ended. That being said, there is no doubt if I will read the next book, but more of when because I absolutely will. I need more answers and I want a conclusion that I am happy with, because to be honest, this was not it. Just an fyi, this book is not for the weak of heart, it is full of darkness and horror and anguish.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
I was instantly pulled into this book. I found myself thinking about it all day when attempting to do silly things like work. I can’t say this was the best book ever, but I was engrossed with the twists and turns of the story. I expected a simple romantic thriller, but that was not at all what the book was. The story was equal parts murder mystery and supernatural battle, with a dash of angsty romance thrown in.
I thought I had the killer figured out about 100 pages into the book. I was absolutely convinced I figured it, watching them for nefarious actions all the time. But I was completely wrong, which doesn’t happen too often in my book predictions.
The romance was, for lack of a better word, complicated. Mala has the hots for officer George, who she has wanted for years, but he wants nothing in return from her. And here comes Laundry, who has wanted Mala for years from a distance, but has never spoken to her. Mala and Laundry are both so conflicting and all over the place, at times I felt like I had whiplash from the reversal of their feelings. To be honest, I rooted for the two of them to be together, societal expectations and personal demons be damned.
The book was told from both Mala and Laundry’s points of view, which I love the multiple perspectives in a story, that way I as the reader don’t miss out on anything. Mala was a little hard headed, stubborn, and had anger problems. She hardly ever thought before she reacted in pretty much every situation. At times she called Laundry bipolar, but that is the pot calling the kettle black. She was all over the place with her feeling. One second she hated someone, the next she wanted to be with them. For example, she has wanted George for years, and Laundry calls him her boyfriend and she denies everything. She was hot and cold. I get that life was hard for Mala, and I mean hard, from physical abuse at home, ridicule from the small town, hodo/paranormal exposure, and feelings of isolation and loneliness overall. She was a fighter; I am just not sure I agreed with what she was fighting for. Laundry on the other hand, knew how he felt about Mala (minus the fact he accused her of being a witch and a killer and believed it), but never really acted on it. I wanted to yell at him to just grab her and confess his love and kiss her! But alas, I don’t always get what I want.
The one downside to the book was at times a little choppy. I felt a little jerked around by the sudden changes between actions, it did not flow smoothly, so at times I was confused. Not enough of an issue to make me not like the book, but just a distraction.
I was not completely happy with how the book ended. That being said, there is no doubt if I will read the next book, but more of when because I absolutely will. I need more answers and I want a conclusion that I am happy with, because to be honest, this was not it. Just an fyi, this book is not for the weak of heart, it is full of darkness and horror and anguish.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
August 5, 2014
I like when I find a New Adult book that stands out from the rest. There seems to be the same theme most of the time. This is more a witchcraft and voodoo happening type read, yes there is romance mixed in, but the slow building, comes along slowly kind. It follows Mala, who comes across the body of a dead girl, after calling it in to 911, and to make matter worse than it all taking place on her property, the guy that Mala has been crushing on, is the deputy who responds to the call. Mala life beings to become more complicated that she ever imagined, she has powers that she never wanted to use but doesn’t have much of a choice but to use.
Mala was pretty kickass, a little naive at times for her age, but kickass none the less. She has had to deal with everyone in town thinking her and her family are all very strange, but she just goes on with life and doesn’t let it bother her. I liked the fact that she liked who she was and just didn’t care what others really though about her. Like Landry, now he was a mystery to me. He was so back and forth with Mala. One minute he was angry with her, the next he seemed to be trying to make a move on her, and was fascinated with the idea that maybe she was practicing witchcraft, then back again with being angry at her. Kinda made my head spin, but I could see the ups and downs with his emotions due to grief, so I moved on past it. Plus, their families have no love for each other, so there’s that.
The opening scene sucked mt right in, and the setting helped it in all the right way. The Louisiana bayou is the perfect place for a witchcraft/voodoo things to be going on. There were some creepy and terrifying moments, especially some of the encounter with Lainey’s spirit, and I was on edge trying to figure it all out right along with Mala. And with so many characters, all of who had their own secrets to keep it was hard to tell who was telling truth where the murder was concerned and whether or not to question their actions, like George for example. Couldn’t put my finger on what it was about him that didn’t sit right, but it was all suspenseful and I didn’t want to stop reading until it was all revealed. The ending was necessarily a cliffhanger, but I caught myself going back and reading a couple of paragraphs over again, because I caught something that made me question the motives of one person that I was sure what one the good one’s. So I am certainly excited to see what all that means and where is goes.
Dark Paradise is a great blend of creepiness, murder and romance. the second book, Dark Sacrifice will be out in August, and I can’t wait to read it. I think fans of the New Adult genre will like this one!
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December 24, 2014
Wow. Just wow. What can I say about Dark Paradise? I guess I start off with the cover, which is beautiful and I completely understand what it means after reading the story. Immediately after reading the title I couldn't help but think of the song Dark Paradise by Lana del Rey and it does in its on way fits right along with this story.
The writing was beautifully written, you could feel what the characters were feeling. The pacing was great, nothing seemed to rush nor did a chapter felt like it was just a filler chapter. The suppense was killing me to know what happened to Lainey and when the truth came out, I was like 'What? But, what?' I didn't expect that at all. The background information on the LaCrioux family and the women was very insightful and can't wait to learn more about them. I love how romance wasn't the main focus and how Mala and Landry, Mala mainly, slowly eased into each other lives, even with all the fights and accusations, they can't stop the feelings they have for each other.
The characters... man the characters, they were awesome, each flawed and they weren't perfect nor did they try to be. I have to say my favorite character was of course Mala and Landry. Landry *sigh*, oh Landry, you big idiot. Just like Mala I was thrown off with his mood changes, I can't count how much I said 'Dude will you just stop already.' The two, when they are not arguing, are so cute together, and since the very beginning I've been rooting from them. I'm defiantly Team Landry. For some reason, I don't know why, I don't trust George, I can't quite put my finger on it, he just's puts me off. I disliked Clairce more than I disliked Landry's dad, she just stirs the pits of dislike for me. Though to be honest, I can't wait to see what crazy mess she's going to do in the next book, I don't think she's going to take a hit that bad and do nothing about it.
Mala's mom broke my heart, and I felt the same way as she does when it concerns her mother. Her aunt Marigold (I think that's her name, I know it starts with a 'M'), is completely bonkers and I don't like or trust her at all, especially when it concerns Mala. The Princes family are just... words can't describe how I feel about them, they're just... mmmm. I liked Bessie and Dena a lot, as well as Maggie, each side character is important to the story and I can't wait to see what happens to them and their relationship with Mala progress during the next book.
The ending threw me through a loop, I was shaking my head 'no' and saying 'no' repeatedly. Just, why would you do that to me; and that sneak peek for the next book. Nope, nope, just nope (not in a bad way). I need that book immediately because I don't know how long I can wait without knowing what's going happen and what the deal is.
I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good new adult books with a paranormal twist, love a good romance between to individuals who can be hardheaded. It's a great suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat, not wanting to put it down and leaves you aching for more.
I received this courtesy of NetGalley for an honest review.
The writing was beautifully written, you could feel what the characters were feeling. The pacing was great, nothing seemed to rush nor did a chapter felt like it was just a filler chapter. The suppense was killing me to know what happened to Lainey and when the truth came out, I was like 'What? But, what?' I didn't expect that at all. The background information on the LaCrioux family and the women was very insightful and can't wait to learn more about them. I love how romance wasn't the main focus and how Mala and Landry, Mala mainly, slowly eased into each other lives, even with all the fights and accusations, they can't stop the feelings they have for each other.
The characters... man the characters, they were awesome, each flawed and they weren't perfect nor did they try to be. I have to say my favorite character was of course Mala and Landry. Landry *sigh*, oh Landry, you big idiot. Just like Mala I was thrown off with his mood changes, I can't count how much I said 'Dude will you just stop already.' The two, when they are not arguing, are so cute together, and since the very beginning I've been rooting from them. I'm defiantly Team Landry. For some reason, I don't know why, I don't trust George, I can't quite put my finger on it, he just's puts me off. I disliked Clairce more than I disliked Landry's dad, she just stirs the pits of dislike for me. Though to be honest, I can't wait to see what crazy mess she's going to do in the next book, I don't think she's going to take a hit that bad and do nothing about it.
Mala's mom broke my heart, and I felt the same way as she does when it concerns her mother. Her aunt Marigold (I think that's her name, I know it starts with a 'M'), is completely bonkers and I don't like or trust her at all, especially when it concerns Mala. The Princes family are just... words can't describe how I feel about them, they're just... mmmm. I liked Bessie and Dena a lot, as well as Maggie, each side character is important to the story and I can't wait to see what happens to them and their relationship with Mala progress during the next book.
The ending threw me through a loop, I was shaking my head 'no' and saying 'no' repeatedly. Just, why would you do that to me; and that sneak peek for the next book. Nope, nope, just nope (not in a bad way). I need that book immediately because I don't know how long I can wait without knowing what's going happen and what the deal is.
I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good new adult books with a paranormal twist, love a good romance between to individuals who can be hardheaded. It's a great suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat, not wanting to put it down and leaves you aching for more.
I received this courtesy of NetGalley for an honest review.
January 2, 2015
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
(But I'm rounding up to 4 because I'm super excited for book 2, which is always a good sign!)
Since I've been reading a bunch of contemporary lately, I thought it'd be a good idea to throw something into the mix to change it up. Something paranormal or fantasy or SOMETHING. And I do like magical, witchy stuff. So I decided to pick up Dark Paradise. I'm not entirely certain what I was expecting from this book, but whatever it was, I was so very wrong. It threw me for a complete loop, and I actually really enjoyed that.
The paranormal elements of the story weren't completely apparent right from the start, and they grew as the story progressed. I liked that, since it made it so we were pretty much learning about everything as Mala does. She had some prior knowledge, of course, but the major aspects addressed in this novel were foreign even to her. That fact alone helped make Mala into a protagonist I enjoyed reading. She also had a good sense of humor, and held a pretty confident air.
The book is dual POV, so Mala only told part of the story. The other half went to Landry, a guy who's had something of a crush on Mala for a while. Not an instalove crush, more like a crush where he knew he was attracted to her and wanted to know her better. I actually really loved that. It added more of a conflict once the events of the novel started going down, but it was also just plain cute. Landry was a nice, charming guy. I liked the time spent in his mind, and found his perspective to be highly valuable as I made it farther into the book.
Plot-wise, Dark Paradise ended up more mysterious than I'd anticipated. I planned to go into this and read a fun paranormal story and instead spent loads of time pointing my finger at people who could have been the murderer. Mixed with the paranormal elements, I must admit I had some fun with that. I was suspicious of just about everyone, and then decided that I KNEW who did it...and then I was wrong. I wasn't entirely shocked, but it was nice to be wrong.
As far as romance goes...as much as this conflicts me, there is a love triangle. I tried to deny it throughout something close to the entirety of the novel, but I can't be in denial anymore. It's a triangle. And I am FIRMLY Team Landry. I think. Because looking at that preview for book 2 made me feel like I may waver later on. But for now, I heart Landry. He's a good guy, and he and Mala made a great couple. Their romance crept up on me, and I enjoyed it. Landry's crush grew, and Mala started feeling something for someone. It was perfect. I liked Georgie well enough, but I'm not completely sold that he'd make a love interest I could swoon for like I did Landry.
Overall, Dark Paradise was a well-written, unique story that mixed paranormal, mystery, and a bit of romance perfectly to create a story I absolutely enjoyed. I loved Landry and Mala, and I will definitely be back for the next installment to see where their story takes them next. Though I must admit, I'm nervous as to where that might be.
You can find more from me on my blog: Just a Booklover
(But I'm rounding up to 4 because I'm super excited for book 2, which is always a good sign!)
Since I've been reading a bunch of contemporary lately, I thought it'd be a good idea to throw something into the mix to change it up. Something paranormal or fantasy or SOMETHING. And I do like magical, witchy stuff. So I decided to pick up Dark Paradise. I'm not entirely certain what I was expecting from this book, but whatever it was, I was so very wrong. It threw me for a complete loop, and I actually really enjoyed that.
The paranormal elements of the story weren't completely apparent right from the start, and they grew as the story progressed. I liked that, since it made it so we were pretty much learning about everything as Mala does. She had some prior knowledge, of course, but the major aspects addressed in this novel were foreign even to her. That fact alone helped make Mala into a protagonist I enjoyed reading. She also had a good sense of humor, and held a pretty confident air.
The book is dual POV, so Mala only told part of the story. The other half went to Landry, a guy who's had something of a crush on Mala for a while. Not an instalove crush, more like a crush where he knew he was attracted to her and wanted to know her better. I actually really loved that. It added more of a conflict once the events of the novel started going down, but it was also just plain cute. Landry was a nice, charming guy. I liked the time spent in his mind, and found his perspective to be highly valuable as I made it farther into the book.
Plot-wise, Dark Paradise ended up more mysterious than I'd anticipated. I planned to go into this and read a fun paranormal story and instead spent loads of time pointing my finger at people who could have been the murderer. Mixed with the paranormal elements, I must admit I had some fun with that. I was suspicious of just about everyone, and then decided that I KNEW who did it...and then I was wrong. I wasn't entirely shocked, but it was nice to be wrong.
As far as romance goes...as much as this conflicts me, there is a love triangle. I tried to deny it throughout something close to the entirety of the novel, but I can't be in denial anymore. It's a triangle. And I am FIRMLY Team Landry. I think. Because looking at that preview for book 2 made me feel like I may waver later on. But for now, I heart Landry. He's a good guy, and he and Mala made a great couple. Their romance crept up on me, and I enjoyed it. Landry's crush grew, and Mala started feeling something for someone. It was perfect. I liked Georgie well enough, but I'm not completely sold that he'd make a love interest I could swoon for like I did Landry.
Overall, Dark Paradise was a well-written, unique story that mixed paranormal, mystery, and a bit of romance perfectly to create a story I absolutely enjoyed. I loved Landry and Mala, and I will definitely be back for the next installment to see where their story takes them next. Though I must admit, I'm nervous as to where that might be.
You can find more from me on my blog: Just a Booklover
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