Diamonds in the Rough

The Secret Diamond Sisters #2

by Michelle Madow

All-access doesn't mean no problems.

The three Diamond sisters survived the summer in style after coming to live with their long-lost billionaire father. But making a place for themselves at their exclusive new Las Vegas private school is throwing them any number of gold-plated curves. Savannah's YouTube stardom turns into a Sweet Sixteen reality show extravaganza--with complimentary enemies on the side. Dangerous flirtations don't keep Peyton from a gamble that will risk far more than she planned to bet. And when Courtney and the sisters' archenemy, Madison, uncover two explosive secrets, it will rock even this town of glittering illusion--and turn their lives upside down all over again.

Sisterhood, first crushes, and scandalous secrets explode in book two of Michelle Madow's riveting series, The Secret Diamond Sisters.

Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Mystery, Chick Lit, Fiction, Drama

448 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

About the author

Michelle Madow is a USA Today bestselling author of fantasy romance novels filled with forbidden love, elemental magic, and epic twists that readers never see coming. With over three million books sold and translations in multiple languages, her addictive stories have captured hearts around the world.

She wrote her first novel in college and never looked back. Now, with 50 books published (and counting), she spends her time dreaming up magical realms and devastating romances that keep readers hooked from page one.

Originally from Maryland, she spent nearly two decades in Florida before a brief chapter in NYC—and now she’s back in the Sunshine State, where golden days fuel her creativity and moonlight sparks her imagination.

When she’s not writing, she’s likely getting lost in the magical world of reading, plotting her next big twist, or reminiscing about her travels to all seven continents.

Reviews

[Grace (LovingDemBooks) Z. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Buy this book HERE on Amazon or buy this book HERE on BookDepository with FREE WORLDWIDE SHIIPPING

I received an Advanced Reader's copy of this book from the publisher (Harlequin) for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

3 of 5 stars (Please read my rating system further below). At the end of the first book in the Secret Diamonds Sisters series, I had very mixed feelings about The Secret Diamond Sisters. I did not know if I liked it or not, because reading it made me felt like I was watching reality TV. Reality TV is something I mindlessly watch from time to time, so I found myself in a place asking myself if I was comparing a book to reality TV, even though reading a book is not exactly mindless, though what your reading reminds you of what you do mindlessly. That being said, I'm very glad to say that I enjoyed Diamonds In the Rough much more than I did The Secret Diamond Sisters. Diamonds In the Rough definitely had much more plot than the The Secret Diamond Sisters did, and it seemed like I wasn't watching a reality TV show anymore while I was reading it. I still definitely really enjoy the three point of views in which the story is told, and I'm so glad that the book switched main settings; the new setting made it much more entertaining. Overall, I really enjoyed Diamonds In the Rough and am so excited to read the next book! I bet the series is just going to get better and better.

My rating system: (I do use half stars.)
5 - I do not use the 5 star. Not because a book might not be worthy, but because a book is never perfect.
4 - I loved it! There weren't too many flaws, and I had no trouble getting through it. (A 4 star rating is the highest rating I've ever given a book.)
3 - I enjoyed the book, but there we're flaws that made me enjoy it less.
2 - I finished the book, but there were too many flaws for me to enjoy it.
1 - I could not finish the book, and I probably did not finish it....

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

Diamonds in the Rough by Michelle Madow
Book Two of The Secret Diamond Sisters series
Publisher: Harlequin TEEN
Publication Date: October 28, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary (from Goodreads):

All-access doesn't mean no problems.

The three Diamond sisters survived the summer in style after coming to live with their long-lost billionaire father. But making a place for themselves at their exclusive new Las Vegas private school is throwing them any number of gold-plated curves. Savannah's YouTube stardom turns into a Sweet Sixteen reality show extravaganza—with complimentary enemies on the side. Dangerous flirtations don't keep Peyton from a gamble that will risk far more than she planned to bet. And when Courtney and the sisters' archenemy, Madison, uncover two explosive secrets, it will rock even this town of glittering illusion—and turn their lives upside down all over again.

Sisterhood, first crushes, and scandalous secrets explode in book two of Michelle Madow's riveting series, The Secret Diamond Sisters.

What I Liked:

Just a note - this review isn't a "street-team" review in the sense that me being on Michelle's street team made me give this book a high rating. I've been interested in this series for a looonnnggggg time, before Michelle created the street team. And you all know me by now. If I hated a book, I'd give it the one or two stars, no matter how much I liked the author, no matter if I was on their street team or in the same state or known them forever. Also, the publisher sent me the print ARC upon my request, not Michelle, nor did Michelle influence the publisher to send me one. Andddd glad we got that out of the way.

In this books, Michelle Madow amps up the secrets and deviousness and flat-out trouble. The four girls - Peyton, Savannah, Courtney, and Madison (Madison being a Lockhart, and not a Diamond) - have a lot of drama in their lives, being rich heiresses, socialites, popular people. Everything is just so much more of a big deal in Vegas. None of the girls can even just talk to a guy without rumors being spread that the girl hooked up with him, or whatever. The stakes are higher, the secrets are deeper, and the tension is thicker...

At first, I wasn't sure if I was enjoying this book, as I was reading it. The first two hundred pages weren't all that interesting, in my opinion. I know what Madow was doing though - she did a really good job of characterizing each of the four girls, and showing their gradual change in personality (at least, when it came to the three Diamond sisters). For example, Savannah. I feel like Savannah got a lot more stuck-up in this book, no longer as down-to-earth as she used to seem. Madow does an excellent job of showing readers this.

Courtney is definitely still my favorite, since she and I are the most similar. She's more level-headed, intelligent, cautious, careful. I feel for her, and her almost-relationship with her step-brother Brett. I ship them so hard!

Peyton definitely has the steamiest romance of the four girls, but she is the messiest of the four. She is totally attracted to Jackson, her bodyguard, but she hooked up with Oliver Prescott in book one, and in this book, her new English teacher (new school year) is smoking hot. She doesn't hook up with him, but sparks fly. I definitely still ship her and Jackson, for sure.

Savannah... she is my least favorite Diamond sister, and for good reason. She is slowly turning into a brat, a snob, a cliche heiress, but it's hard to blame her when you're seeing the slow progression of things. She is stuck on Damian, but she's stringing Nick along, so I'm not sure what's happening there. I like her and Damian, but the romance for Savannah wasn't really big in this book. Getting her voice and music out there, her public image, seemed more important.

Madison - well, I understand her more in this book, and feel really bad for her. For the majority of the book, a huge bombshell of a secret eats away at her, and it's destroying her inside. I would probably rip into someone if that was a secret about me. I'd be pissed. Madison shut down. Understandable, I suppose. I ship her and Oliver.

With so many characters, it's easy to lose track of who is who, if they all sound the same. This book is written in third person limited (you know by the chapter title), but I think Madow did a good job of characterizing each girl, and making them sound unique. She also did a good job of making sure the story kept moving - although the first half of the book dragged, for sure.

Once again, Madow does not just focus on the romance for each girl. This series is not a contemporary romance series - or at least, not JUST that, not PRIMARILY that. There is plenty of rich-people drama, plenty of other relationships that are explored, plenty of the-past-coming-back-to-haunt-you action. Which I liked a lot!

The secrets are so cray-cray. Like woah, they involve everyone and everything and oh my goodness, all the blackmail and hush-hush. I'm excited to see what happens in the next book. These girls' lives and personalities are so different from mine (except for maybe Courtney's personality), but I enjoy reading about them. Fun!

What I Did Not Like:

Like I mentioned above, the first half of the book dragged, a lot. This book is over four hundred pages, so when a good chunk - half - of the book doesn't capture the reader's attention, that's bad. But I wasn't NOT going to finish it, because I always always always finish what I start, so it wasn't the worst thing ever. It just took me a long time to finish this book, to get to the good stuff. Once the good stuff was going, I was hooked. But getting to the good stuff took entirely too long.

Would I Recommend It:

If you enjoyed book one, definitely keep reading this series! And if you haven't read book one... well, this series is contemporary, there is plenty of romance, plenty of relationships (sisters, sister-father, friends, girl-guy), plenty of developing characters. There is a lot of depth to what should seem to be a shallow-content-filled book! No offense meant by that statement.

Rating:

4 stars. I'll be eagerly awaiting the third book to the series! I so love the title Diamonds are Forever. Cool cool cool!

[Michelle Madow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm SO EXCITED for you all to read Diamonds in the Rough, the latest installment in The Secret Diamond Sisters series. Get ready for major secrets revealed, loads more drama, and for your opinions of certain characters to change drastically as you're reading the book! I can't wait to hear what you all think <3

[Nasty Lady MJ · Rating 2 out of 5]

To see full review with gifs click here.

I gave this series a second chance, because I thought despite poor characterization and no plot in the first book, things could pick up. And the Vegas setting is fun, despite it’s flaws.


But now I’m doing some major head on wall banging.

The good news: the sequel is indeed a little bit better than the original.

The bad: it’s not that much better.

And a lot of it again is because all of the characters save for maybe one (and if I’m pushing it two) are horrible people. And not in the type of way where you want to keep raining because the characters are train wrecks. No. These characters are horrible people.

Can I just say I wish that plot twist at the end involved 3/4 of the main characters. Rather, than one rather lame minor character?

Oh, no.

Damn you book gods.

To be fair, the one character I can I stomached with no qualms was absolutely horrible in the last book. But remarkably, she pulled a Mimi Force and I can say while I don’t like Madison I get her and tolerate her more. And unlike the stupid Diamond sisters, I think her attitude makes sense. Though I did get a little annoyed with how her eating habits were sort of blown over. She has an eating disorder, pure and simple. And while I did like the fact her parents were getting her a professional at the end of the book, Madow made it seem like they were overreacting.

They weren’t.

And honestly, Madison should be receiving psychological treatment too.

Madison aside though…


Dear lord, is there something in Diamond DNA that equals douche.

I’m starting to think so.

Let’s start with the one Diamond I liked last book: Courtney.

I didn’t outright hate her this installment either, but God what a self righteous Sue. And I really have a hard time believing that a teen would be that obedient to her absentee father.

At least, Courtney finally sort of got over her that’s too expensive stage.

But this is one character you want to smack because she’s so freaking perfect.

I also didn’t like how she reacted to the big family secret. And how she expected her sisters to follow her feelings. Yes, I get it’s different for you than it was for them, but show compassion girl.

But being a Diamond Douche, she can’t help it.

And to be fair, she was less hit with the Diamond Douche gene than her two sisters.

Savannah, the youngest, is just as annoying as ever. I feel she’s written primarily for the younger audience, but she comes off as more shallow than young. Also, while I felt Madow was obviously going for a love triangle in the last book, I don’t know so much now. The triangle vibe was shaken and honestly I don’t know why one party even exists anymore other than to be the designated sob story. I think when it just comes to this character I want her to grow up a little. Given the circumstances she grew up in, you’d think it would be a little more weary to the world. But whatever. Also, I really got annoyed with the big nod to One Direction but changing their name to One Connection and one of it’s singers names from Harry to Perry isn’t fooling anyone.


Then again, One Direction has shown to be a hot commodity in publishing (for what reason I don’t know).

I saved the worst for last: Peyton.

Oh, God I think she got the dominant and recessive gene for douchness because girl…just stand in front of a bus already.

I don’t like you.

I’ll never liked you.

And unlike Madison you have no motivations for acting like the twit you are. You mess with people’s lives and have little remorse about it, only than your own stupid feelings.

I don’ t want you to have a happy ending Peyton.

Sigh…

Besides some god awful points of views, it’s a pretty fun book. It has the sort of soapy goodness about it that fans of Jen Calonita and Melissa de la Cruz will lap up. The plot, well, weak didn’t really bother me since it did exist.

It was just the characters.

To be fair, I don’t think Madow is a terrible writer. She really knows how to utilize setting and I do have to applaud her for the evolution of Madison, and the characters all seemed different. But for three out of four of the leads to stink, I just don’t know. If the next book is the last one, I’ll probably finish up this series. If not…well, I probably won’t.

It’s a nice mindless read but if you get aggravated by shallow idiotic characters. Pass.

[savannah chandler · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPOILER FREE REVIEW BELOW!!
One word: Damien!

I'm going to keep this review short and sweet so I don't give too much away. The book takes place right where The Secret Diamond Sisters stops, school. Goodman was just what I was expecting, one of the most fancy schools around. Super nice teachers, indoor pool and who can't forget the cafeteria! I mean, why can't the cafeteria at Goodman be in every school?!? Anyway, things start to escalate quite fast. Madison discovers a BIG secret that I definitely did not see coming! I mean, hello plot twist! I also did feel kind of bad for her because it was kept from her for so long.
Savannah's YouTube account starts to grow drastically fast after some work with Damien. I still don't know if they are an "item" or not hmm.
Peyton starts to have a little eye candy on her teacher but Jackson stops that really fast.
Now I cannot forget Courtney, who also uncovered a secret. This one was what made the book really come together. The whole series pretty revolves around this secret, but you have to read the series to discover it, trust me you won't regret reading these.
Over all, Diamonds in the Rough is a fast-paced, cute book that help you discover how the Diamond Sisters came to be, with a few missing...
Thank you so much Ms. Madow for providing me with a finished copy for review!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review copy granted by publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much!

I’m so sad that I am unable to share some of the beautiful pieces of writing from this book with you all, haha. But if you loved the first book, THEN YOU MUST MUST MUST (yes I did say “must” three times in a row) READ THIS WHEN IT’S PUBLISHED. And I bet that if you loved the first book, then you’re sitting there, reading this review in an agonizing-mode because you don’t have this beauty in your hands.

I’m lucky to have gotten a copy of this beauty before October. I read the first book, adored it, and then went straight onto this one! But then again, what sucks about getting ARCs before the book is released is that if there’s a cliff-hanger, you will have to wait EVEN LONGER to get the next book. And that’s what I’m doing here. I’m CRYING, and have been crying since minute 1 after finishing this. -_-



First of all, may I just say that Michelle Madow has the best covers ever? I can just stare at my copy of this beauty all day, all night, no kidding. You can’t even imagine how many times I took this out of my bookshelf before reading it just to stare at the copy and think about my appreciation for having it before. :)



The first book was all about their new experience and finding out the truth behind something that happened to Courtney when she was younger. She took it toughly, and I don’t blame her. Her parents have been hiding this from her for all of her life and now they announce it when she’s more than old enough to handle it? Well, the mysteries and shocking secrets aren’t over. THERE ARE SO MANY SHOCKING DISCOVERIES HERE. YOU JUST NEED TO BE READY AND BRACE THE CRAZINESS HERE. NO JOKES.

*takes a deep breath* We’re here at the stage of a trilogy where the most drama and the stage where the “characters find the most about themselves.” And usually, authors aren’t able to master the skills of creating “the perfect sequel.” And actually, Michelle Madow has, and has given us a sequel that is perfect. Perfection. Nothing about this book was negative, and I can compare it to big-time favourites of mine, like City of Bones and Divergent. It’s at their level, and probably even farther into the rankings of “Michelle’s Book Favourite List.”



This takes place right after where the first book left off. The girls are going to begin their first year at their new private school. Sure, they’ve gotten to know some people, and that includes hating some people. *coughMadisoncough* As we know, Savannah loves music, and thanks to one certain someone, she might just be on her way to become famous. Courtney’s relationship with Brett is still steaming up even though she knows that he’s off-limits and Peyton is going overboard with having drinks with her teacher? These sisters have certainly gotten used to the lifestyle of heiresses and more drama and secrets will be flowing and coming upon, and those include some having to do with Madison and the whole kidnapping incident in Courtney’s past.

You will die, at least will feel like you’re dying, by the time you complete reading this. I was in such a disastrous book-hangover after completing this book that I seriously didn’t know what to do with myself. Crown of Midnight book-hangover like.



I didn’t know what to do with myself, and I still do. After reading this, you will be longing for the next book, and you will possibly be thinking about how-the-heck will the last book be up next? This trilogy is full of so much drama and romance that you will be wondering how all of our questions will be answered and how will this trilogy come to a close. But all I know is that Michelle Madow is going to do amazing at it and make the ending perfect, just like she does every time when ending another of her fabulous novels!

There are such crazy plot-twists in this book, the character-relationships go out of control, and the romance is better than ever. There are so many things that went crazier and better, not that anything about the first book was negative or close to perfect. (It was far more than 5/5.)

Courtney and Brett are ADORABLE. THEY’RE MY NEW FAVOURITE COUPLE LIKE OMG. Just wait—you’ll fall in love with them and their hot romance!



That’s what you may be thinking, but you’ll understand later. :)

In the history of sequels, this was the best most amazing perfectionous sequel that you can read. Michelle Madow’s writing is lush, pure excellence, and addicting. Good luck with your emotions after reading this!

This review can also be found at Happy Indulgence. Check it out for more reviews

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Diamond Sisters is Gossip Girl meets Switched at Birth. This series definitely needs to be made into a TV series. I absolutely loved this continuation and can't wait for the next book. If you love character driven books then you must read this series. Diamonds In The Rough was one of my most anticipated 2014 releases and it didn't disappoint.

Michelle Madow is an incredible writer and is able to create characters that teens are able to relate to. I think there tends to be a disconnect in some YA novels in which the characters don't sound like teenagers. Michelle Madow gives so many pop culture references that makes it really fun to read like The Vampire Diaries.

This series is very character driven and Michelle Madow does a wonderful job with having multiple point of views. Even though the characters are named at the front of the chapter you could distinguish the characters with out that. They have all have very distinct voices and personalities that makes this story amazing.

A lot of secrets and drama came out in this book that made a lot of things clearer from the last book. After this book you can see why every character is important and vital to the story line. I love that in each book I love different characters and it really shows the character growth. I loved Peyton in the first book, but now Madison and Oliver are definitely beloved to me.

I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT ENDING! I almost started crying on the bus after reading it and now I am impatiently waiting for the third book. If you haven't started this series yet WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

[Whispering Chapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I thought The Secret Diamond Sisters was good, this second installment in the series is way more than I bargained for. Michelle is right when she points out that our feelings of a few characters will change while reading Diamonds in the Rough, at least they did for me.

A few secrets are revealed, but there are still more to uncover. Those secrets that are revealed though...definitely plays with your emotions and the reader can't help but feel saddened about certain situations.

The mystery is still there and the cliff-hanger... Why?! Why leave us hanging like that? Just no, no, no. I hope everything is okay in the third book or I will cry a lot and I won't know what to do with my life.

Michelle has done a fantastic job with this series. I hadn't picked this series up before because I thought it was the same as Gossip Girl (I judged by the cover, not description) and I am not a fan of the books/show. But I saw a lot of hype so I figured I would give it a shot and I am so glad I did because it is different, it is refreshing and a new kind of story readers will adore.

[Nadhira Satria]

this series is starting to become my guilty pleasure

[Dark Faerie Tales · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: The first book in this series was not my favorite. Thankfully, I saw an improvement in this novel and had a lot of fun with it!

Opening Sentence: I can’t believe school starts tomorrow!

The Review:

The three sisters are back. Last book, they realized their long-absent father was a rich hotel chain owner, watched their mother go through rehab, and met a whole bunch of new people — many of them snobby, superficial, and materialistic. Having made it through summer, it’s time to tackle the exclusive private school in Vegas. Savannah will have a reality TV show, Peyton will get close with her bodyguard, Courtney will learn just how hard it is to stay away from Brett, and Madison will discover something that changes everything. In this second novel of the series, twists will take place and secrets revealed that could rival any Pretty Little Liars episode.

If anyone remembers my previous review on the first installment of the series, they’ll remember that while I had some fun with it I wasn’t extremely impressed. Relieving this one for review I found myself excited to give the series a second chance. I was in the exact right mood for a glamorous contemporary at the time. Maybe it was that I approached the novel with an open mind, because I did end up enjoying this considerably more than the last, though there were still problems. For example, the three main characters whom I took a disliking to last book were not nearly as aggravating to me this time around. Take Savannah, for example. Last book she was naive, childish, and downright annoying. This book I feel she is still innocent in ways, but also more cautious and the easiest point of view to sink into. Courtney was my favorite in this story but I didn’t like her as much in this one, she underwent no serious development at all. Peyton still was reckless and stupid at times, but in situations that I could forgive her. Hey, she’s still a teenager, and aren’t we all reckless and stupid?

The side characters are also interesting with unique personalities. A thing I really do love about these books is that all of the characters have depth beyond looks. Madison became more of a key player in this series, more invested in the plotline of the Diamond sisters beyond being a materialistic bully. She becomes nicer and a budding romance begins with, of all people, Oliver. In the last book he was a total player and hurt Peyton. We see much more of Oliver than Damien, though he is in this novel, as Savannah’s friend. (Something more? Maybe in next book.) I don’t know whether I can trust Damien, really, after the stunt he pulled before. I am not fond of Brett. He’s too perfect, he has no flaws, which makes him unrealistic. I feel bad for Jackson, Peyton’s bodyguard, who was caught in the crossfires of her teenage stupidity.

The flamboyant scene of Las Vegas is lots of fun to read about. Hotels, delicious food, sparkling nightclubs, they all make for an amazing setting. But the best parts are the darker parts: the fake IDs and drugs, the matieralistic residents, that make the story intriguing and create conflict. I don’t agree with lots of the stuff the Diamond sisters think is fine, like drinking or having sex. One character whom I found particularly idiotic was Evie. Evie is Savannah’s friend from back home who is obsessed with losing her virginity while in Vegas and I thought she sounded desperate. Of course she’s extremely jealous of Savannah’s sudden rise to fame and money, as I’m sure anyone in her position would be, and I saw that from the beginning. Savannah didn’t. I wanted to shake her and make her say things differently to not offend Evie.

Altogether this second installment was entirely preferable to the first in my opinion. I was better connected with the characters, cared more about their lives, and wouldn’t scoff. I thought it was a worthwhile and enjoyable read. Warning for those who will be annoyed by materialistic stories! This is one of them, and if that will bother you I won’t encourage you to spend time on this novel. If you liked the first than I’m sure you will like the second, there are quite a few big reveals and a sudden cliffhanger at the end. It was unexpected. I saw some of the twists coming early on in the first book, so those were predictable, but it was fun to confirm my suspicions all the same. And just look at those covers! I love, love them, combining color and geometric designs to a modern and edgy theme. I like the model with her finger over her lip and how the whole cover looks shiny and reminds me of Vegas. I think this is a great fluffy read, and passes by pretty quickly. For anyone in the mood for a contemporary that’s bigger, brighter, and reminiscent of Mean Girls, this is for you!
Notable Scene:

“Jackie and Brookie set up karaoke in the rec room,” Alyssa said, breaking the silence. “You sing, Savannah, right?”

“Yes, I do!” She jumped and clapped her hands. “Does she have the Frozen sing-along? I totally have to sing ‘Let it Go’! The Idina Menzel version, obviously.”

“You can sing that?” Damien raised an eyebrow. “Don’t get me wrong, you have a great voice, but it’s a tough song.”

“Um, yeah, I can sing that.” Savannah laughed and rolled her eyes. “Follow me and I’ll prove it!”

She pointed at the rec room, took a shot in the kitchen on the way there and the night was a blur after that.

FTC Advisory: Harlequin Teen provided me with a copy of The Secret Diamond Sisters. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.

[Amy Halbern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michelle Madow, has become on of my favorite Authors. After Reading The Secret Diamond Sisters, I couldn't wait to pick up Diamonds in the Rough. In the first book we get to know the Diamond sisters on the surface which was a great start, however we really get to know Savannah, Peyton and Courtney on such personal level. I felt that this story was for sure an emotional coaster for me to read. I loved how the story evolved so much from the first book. There was so much mystery that unfolds in Diamonds in the Rough. The Diamonds Sister experience so much and grow so much through the heartaches and pains of their past. I felt that we as readers get to know Adrian and Rebecca More and they don't seem so distant anymore. Courtney learns a lot about her past, her kidnapping that she knew so little of from the first story, she also discovers who she can really trust and rely on. I absolutely love she and Brett's "Friendship" I put that in quotes because I don't want to give too many spoilers away lol! I also love how Courtney stayed true to herself and didn't change for anyone but for herself. Peyton who I still feel like is a lost soul but not as much as she was in the beginning of the story, she doesn't have a huge chip on her shoulder as she once did, I hope she finds someone who will love her for her. I also enjoyed how she also evolved in this story. I feel that she is showing more trust to those who truly care and love her. To be honest her character drove me crazy but I am liked her a lot more in Diamonds in the Rough. Savannah wow that girl has been on a roller coaster of craziness, with her friends, love life, her YouTube channel, and family situations. I feel that she has a lot more of a back bone in Diamonds in the Rough, then she did in The Secret Diamonds Sisters. It was fun to read about her best friendship with Evie and too see how Evie did with her current friends in which are so superficial, it is so ridiculous how superficial her volleyball friends are. Without giving too much away lets just say that Savannah gets some awesome time in the lime light. I hope that she gets some awesome happily ever time with her guy of choice and her blooming singing career. Madison as crazy as it sounds is growing on me. I still am not sure about her but she is not thinking all about herself as much as she was at the beginning,concerning some new information that has come to light that when it is revealed will change everyone's life. I hope that she stays this way and continues to evolve into more and more of a selfless character. Brett is seriously my favorite guy character. I wish I had a guy in my life like him. Brett is the most caring loving selfless person. I loved all the Brett/Courtney moments. I loved how much his character evolved in this story. Damien is turning out to be a way good guy I am really shipping he and Savannah at the moment. Oliver wow not much to say about him!! lol! I just hope the best for him.. I loved how Adrian is finally being more of a father to his daughters. In the first book he seemed so selfish and he didn't care about them. However my opinion of him has changed and I really like him, for now... This story had mystery, romance, scandal, teary-eyed moments, and what matters most, family. I loved this story to start to finish. I loved how I felt that I was right there going to the Halloween Parties, Savannah's birthday party, which was wow I would love to have a party like that, family trips, shopping with the Diamond Sisters, and wanting to hug them when they needed a shoulder to cry on. I loved it from start to finish.. Lets just say that I had a big smile on my face for many reasons at the end of the story!!! I can't wait to read the next story!! I highly recommend this book!

[Melissa (thereaderandthechef) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I NEED THE THIRD BOOK NOW. Why? Because I NEED to know what happens next! Why did this book have to end with a cliffy? I was all lalalala (happy) and then BAM, that happened and the book ends. How could the author do that to me? So evil, although I must grudgingly admit that it was done so well, I never saw it coming and definitely never thought I would find out about it THAT way.

Anyway, by now you must know that I’m in love with The Secret Diamond Sisters series. These books are fabulous and are so full of energy, and secrets. The characters- Savannah, Courtney, Peyton (the Diamond sisters) and Madison – are so much fun to hang around with and extremely likeable. Yup, including Madison. I never thought I would say this, but Madison is now my favorite character (I terribly disliked her in the first book). She changes throughout the story and I liked what I read about her. She’s stronger than I thought. But even though Madison is now my favorite, I must say that I loved Peyton’s side of the story the best.

For me, the well written characters are what make a story astounding, so when an author manages to change your mind about characters in a good way, then that author is one to stick around with. Michelle did an awesome job developing the characters in this book and making them grow. I loved getting to know them more and warming up to them. And, what about the plot you might ask? Well, this book is a huge ticking time bomb waiting to explode. Several secrets have been uncovered, but they aren’t all out there yet. I can’t wait till when they all come to light. It’s going to be awesome.

Here’s a secret: When I first read the first book, I wasn’t that thrilled that it was written in four different point of views. It took some getting used to, but I’m glad that’s not a problem for me anymore. In fact, now I love that each chapter follows either Savannah’s, Courtney’s, Peyton’s or Madison’s doings. I also enjoyed the Campus Buzz posts at the start of each round of chapters. The comments written anonymously were cool as they created or divulged gossip concerning the Diamond sisters and company. I didn’t think they were that important for the story, but boy was I wrong.

Secrets are everywhere, romance is in the air, and if you love the glamurous Las Vegas life, then yes, Diamonds in the Rough is the next book you must read.

*Thanks go out to the publisher for providing me with a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Diamonds in the Rough review can also be read at Kate Tilton, Connecting Authors & Readers.*

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

So it’s finally October, the month that Diamonds in the Rough comes out. I was lucky enough to get my hands on an Advanced Copy...which was awesomely exciting because I was left hanging after the first book! (But now I’m left waiting earlier than most for book three!)

Diamonds in the Rough is the second installment of the Secret Diamond Sisters’ story. If you liked The Secret Diamond Sisters (and even if you didn’t) then you’re going to LOVE Diamonds in the Rough. So far, from Michelle Madow, we’ve gotten the Transcend Time Saga and the Secret Diamond Sisters, and I have to say, each book gets better. While I loved all of her other books, this one is my favorite (so far).

Just like book one, this story is told from four distinct points of view, the three Diamond girls, and Madison Lockhart (the resident ‘Mean Girl’ of the Goodman School). The first book is an introduction into the world of the Diamonds, and it lays the plans for the books to follow. So that I don't spoil anything, I'll just mention a few big-picture things that I love about this book:

~My favorite stories surprise me. I love the twists and turns that are thrown at the reader, but I especially love how going back to book one, there are hints of what’s to come dropped on you, and you don’t even know you’re reading them at the time.

~The heart of the stories I like best are ones with no clear villain, so even good characters do bad things, and you care about the “bad guys” -- Madow pulls that off here! There’s not always a clear right or wrong. Everyone has his/her own well developed issues, and they don’t always make the good decision.

~I also really enjoy how there are tons of characters, but I’m never confused on who is who -- it’s very easy to keep them straight. They are all unique with their own unique relationships to each of our protagonists.

I recommend this book to mid-older teens, just because some of the themes are not for kids -- also adults who want a light yet drama-filled read will enjoy this. I’d say it’s a good summer read, but with summer technically over, it’s the perfect book for an escape from the hassles of real life school and work (just like reading should be!)

This world is so fun and drama filled, it’s addictive. Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop, and I was dreading how fast I was getting through each page because once it’s over, it’s over and you’re stuck waiting for the next....needless to say, I can’t wait to see what’s in store for book three!

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you liked The Secret Diamonds Sisters, get ready. Diamonds in the Rough takes things to whole new level. More drama, more secrets and lies, and more camaraderie.

Peyton, Courtney, and Savannah are adjusting to life at their new school. Surprisingly Savannah is the one with the hardest time adjusting. I suppose when you think about Savannah’s personality though and how hard she tries to fit in, I guess it’s not actually that surprising. Peyton does grow a bit, but she’s still got a very long way to go and the same is true for Savannah. Courtney has always been a little adult, but I was happy to see her start being a smidge more carefree. And then there’s Madison. If you hated her in book 1, be prepared for a more sympathetic and nicer Madison. Really love where Madow has taken her character!

The best part of the novel is undoubtedly all of the drama. Holy crap! We’re really taking things to new heights here. The girls’ train wreck mother is more present in the novel and is probably the only character that I just truly do not care for. We learn more about Adrian who has always been mysterious, and I really like his character a lot. Event though Peyton has slightly matured in this novel, she takes things in an unexpected and over-the-top direction when she decides to go all Cruel Intentions on us. It was tremendously uncool of her, but did add quite a bit to the storyline.

High school is a bitch. In fact, high school could probably be a character in this novel. The Juicy Campus/Gossip Girl like message board that is sprinkled throughout the novel creates so many problems for the Diamond sisters, and watching their reactions to it is quite interesting. It also further cements Courtney as my favorite character in the novel.

Diamonds in the Rough is a superb follow up. The characters have evolved nicely, the pacing is wonderful, and with all those hidden secrets it’s really hard to put this one down. Highly recommend this series for fans of Gossip Girl, L.A. Candy, All That Glitters, and The Princess Diaries.

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[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michelle steps it up for Diamonds in the Rough. I'll admit that I had a little trouble believing the plausibility of these sister's being the secret children of a billionaire, even if their parents split prior to the internet boom. Your father owns billionaire who owns casinos in Vegas and nobody knows of your existence and connection to him? I'm still skeptical about how this would play out in the real world but Diamonds in the Rough answers all these questions and more. Michelle teased that huge secrets would be coming out in this novel and she did not lie nor did she disappoint.

Peyton, Courtney, and Savannah are slowing coming into their own after having their lives uprooted in The Secret Diamond Sisters. I grew to like the sisters more in this novel than its predecessor and a lot of that has to do with their character development. Peyton becomes less rebellious and slowly loses the "I hate everything" attitude, Courtney speaks up and stands up for herself, and Savannah is less naive. Michelle even manages to weave a story where I don't hate Madison - and that says something.

Michelle does an amazing job of keeping each of her four main characters voices distinct and strong. These girls personalities are nothing alike and Michelle has the talent to keep them that way. They do not blend into one another and there is no way to confuse them with one another. Even her minor characters stand on their own and, regardless of the time they spend on the pages, have individual personalities.

There are instances where things fall too easily in place, but Diamonds in the Rough is a fun and easy ready. One of the things that I appreciated about this over The Secret Diamond Sisters is just when you thinking everything is all sunshine and lollipops, Michelle throws these characters a curve ball. With a basketball.

The beginning is a little on the slow side, but once things start rolling and secrets come out, there is no stopping the momentum. Things are definitely going to come to a head in the third installment of this series and I'm very curious and looking forward to see how it is all going to unfold.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The three Diamond sisters survived the summer in style after coming to live with their long-lost billionaire father. But making a place for themselves at their exclusive new Las Vegas private school is throwing them any number of gold-plated curves. Savannah’s YouTube stardom turns into a Sweet Sixteen reality show extravaganza–with complimentary enemies on the side. Dangerous flirtations don’t keep Peyton from a gamble that will risk far more than she planned to bet. And when Courtney and the sisters’ archenemy, Madison, uncover two explosive secrets, it will rock even this town of glittering illusion–and turn their lives upside down all over again.

I absolutely LOVED the first Diamond Sisters book – The Secret Diamond Sisters, and so I was very excited to jump into the sequel and start reading!

Starting where the last book left off, we are back with the Diamond sisters after the summer. I loved being reunited with the Diamond sisters, it is so much fun to be in their story and to get completely lost in their world. One thing I like most about this novel is that the story is told from four viewpoints – each of the sisters Savannah, Peyton and Courtney, and also their archememy Madison. I liked that we were able to see from each person’s view, as I enjoyed reading about them and watching them grow and develop throughout the book. I really like all four in their own way, they’re all not perfect and have their own agendas, plans, thoughts or secrets but this is what makes them SO fascinating!

There is lots of drama, lots of action and I was hooked to every single word not knowing what was going to happen next but thoroughly enjoying the ride! Michelle Madow is a very talented author who keeps you on the edge of your seat with plenty of secrets and surprises in this thrilling, fun and exciting novel. I am very much looking forward to more from Michelle.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

That's it. I'm moving to Vegas. Okay, well not really but it'd be awesome to find out my dad was someone like Adrain Diamond, and live such an awesome life (minus the drama if you will).
Michelle has done it again with the next installment of The Secret Diamond Sisters. I was on edge half the time, my feelings all over the place. Just when things seemed to have settled down everything would explode under their feet and I was at such a lost on what to think half the time I had to stop reading to gather myself. Such a big plot twists hitting me one after another I can promise you this book won't bore you. You'll just have a wicked boom hangover once you're done. I've come to see old characters in new light, loving some more now and disliking others a lot now. It's hard to put into words how much I enjoyed this book. The setting, the characters, the plot was all fantastic. I can't wait for the next one!

[Vienna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! This was the perfect book to read now because it was entertaining and I just kept reading! This series is so like Gossip Girl, but so much fun to read about! I loved all the family drama and there were two huuuuuuuuuge plottwists in this book: I WAS SHOCKED! I couldn't believe this was about to happen, but when I finished this book it had a huge open ending and I already figured out what is going to happen in the third book. But we have to wait a year for the conclusion! So if you're in the mood to read a drama book: read this series! It was also fun because she mentioned loads of currently books, series and tv-shows that we grew up with so it was so familiar! It was something different than all the classics I usually read.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has now become a favourite must-read series of mine. I read the first one earlier this year and really enjoyed it and this one is even better.
I love how easy this was to read, sometimes you want to escape into a book like this without some huge fantasy or paranormal storyline and this has great characters, a really juicy plot and some serious jaw-dropping moments.
I love how we get the viewpoints of all 3 Diamond sisters and also Madison who I have no doubt you will see in a different light when reading this second installment. There are 2 huge revelations that have made me absolutely desperate for the third book (which the author just told me on twitter is due out next year, yay!!)

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need book 3.....NOW!

LOVED this book more than the first. There was so much more character development of the other characters in the book which I loved. It made me see their side of things a bit more and not feel the way I did about them in book 1.

Check this out if you read the first! If not, read that one and then this!

Especially if you want something that reminds you of Gossip Girl or something similar.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

DONT END A BOOK LIKE THAT OMG I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT. PLEASE NO NOT ONE OF MY FAVORITE GUYS PLEASE WHAT?!!!

I liked this book better than the first one, even though it was pretty predictable. Can't wait for the final one!

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

loved it! one of my new favorite authors!!!

[Celeste_pewter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intro:
I really enjoyed The Secret Diamond Sisters last year, so Diamonds in the Rough quickly became one of my most anticipated contemporary releases for the fall.

(In fact, one of my saddest moments at ALA, was when ARCS ran out right before it was my turn to pick one up. Luckily for me, Harlequin kindly sent me one!)

After reading and (re)reading Diamonds in the Rough – which is kind of notable in it of itself, since I rarely take the time to reread a book, I can definitely say, Madow has lived up to all of my expectations, and more!

***

Things that worked:

Characterizations

Like The Secret Diamond Sisters, Madow incorporates a number of POVs in Diamonds in the Rough, rotating between the Diamond Sisters and other secondary characters.

Even though she's writing in third-person limited, Madow does a great job of showing readers distinctive personalities between Savannah, Courtney and Peyton. We've seen how they've grown since they've first arrived in Vegas, and how both their good traits and bad traits have been magnified by their exposure as Adrian Diamond's daughters.

While I found each of their storylines compelling, I found myself sympathizing with Savannah and Courtney a little more this time around. As clueless as Savannah could be sometimes, Madow is consistent and unwavering at showing how it's the influences of her new life (and her desire to want to fit into that new life, and her desired aspirations), that has made her slowly become something she may not necessarily be.

Courtney is close to my heart, because she - like me - will always go back to tried and true techniques, e.g. making breakfast after a bad incident, despite having a staff at her beck and call, because it makes her feel better.


The relationships

Like The Secret Diamond Sisters, Diamonds in the Rough is very much a book about relationships. We have the core relationships between the girls, which Madow has continued to develop with a deft hand.

Even when they fight and may profess to dislike each other, there's never any doubt that they are sisters, and theirs is an unbreakable bond that will continue regardless of where they are, and anything they might have done. This is especially poignant in the latter half of the book, when the three Diamonds are faced with a revelation that fundamentally change who they are as sisters.

While they're more secondary this time around, readers also continue to see how the Diamond girls are relating to the world around them. There's a relationship between the girls and a secondary character that's essentially a ticking time bomb waiting to be revealed, and I can't wait to see how Madow works her magic in the next book.


Writing/world-building

I mentioned in my original review for The Secret Diamond Sisters that I thought Madow had done a great job of bringing the Strip to life for readers.

I still feel the same for this book, but I'm also equally impressed at how her world-building has changed in a way, where the Diamonds (and the reader) begins to find the large-scale Vegas hotels and the Strip more homey, and some place that they're meant to be.

There's a certain sense of ownership that the girls have begun to feel about their new home, and it's the type of ownership that really impacts their relationship to a place, and to each other. It's going to be interesting to see how this plays out, and whether this impacts those they've left behind in Fairfield - something that you could already begin to see in this book.


The romance factor

Madow continues to introduce and (re)introduce readers to cute boys, but she's upped the ante this time.

Not only do we get cute romantic interests for the Diamonds, but she's also fleshed out their backstories more. Readers get to learn just what makes these boys tick, and that just possibly, their lives may not be so perfect after all. They are positively and negatively influenced by their relationships with the girls, and at times, do things that they regret because of their influence.

I'm intrigued by all of the guys, but particularly two seemingly out-of-reach guys.


The ending

Michelle has killed me with that ending. When does the next book come out?!

***

Final verdict:

Diamonds in the Rough is not just a fun novel full of the glamour and the wealth that many readers like to dream about; it’s also a novel with genuine thoughtfulness and heart.

At the heart of the story, Savannah, Peyton and Courtney are young girls who are coming-of-age in a very weird, complicated environment.

(Seriously. If you think you have it/had it tough in high school, just imagine all of your problems + a world famous dad + endless wads of cash. Yep. See what I mean?)

Madow charts the growth, understanding of who the Diamond sisters are and who they want to be, in a way that is both entertaining, but also compelling to read. These are girls who will make mistakes, and will do and learn things that make them reevaluate their understanding of the world, and their place in it.

But it’s also a process where the Diamond girls will come out of it slightly better, and slightly wiser, and readers will get to grow along with them. I can’t wait to see where Michelle takes their journey next, and I’m confident that other readers will agree with me. Seriously - I need Diamonds are Forever already!

I highly recommend this book for fans of contemporary fiction. You will enjoy this book, trust me!

[Rabiah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted at: http://iliveforreading.blogspot.com/2...

**WARNING: Spoilers from Book 1!**

After finishing The Secret Diamond Sisters I knew I couldn’t WAIT until I got my hands on the next one. I’m so honoured to have been picked to review this book by the author, and absolutely freaked out when I got the copy in the mail, signed to me in all it’s glory. I believe I’ve mentioned it before but I’ll say it again: something about this series has a TV-show quality to it. After Gossip Girl ended, I NEED another show to satisfy my craving for scandal, drama and boys. This is the perfect substitute! While there were somethings I didn’t like in this one, Madow’s second instalment was absolutely packed with amazing interweaving storylines that build up to several shocking moments in the book.

There was definitely a lot more character development compared to the first book, but my opinions on characters haven’t changed. I still don’t like Peyton, I find her too annoying, but she has improved a great deal. She just needs to think about what she does and the consequences of it because it’s basically a record-player playing the same thing over and over again– you would have thought she had learned her lesson the first or second time round! Courtney is still my favourite character. Something about her level-headedness being so refreshing in this family where two of three sisters are infatuated by material objects and throwing themselves at guys. Loved her frustration and tension with Brett, that was done so well in this book. I felt so bad for her as well, because this story builds up to a HUGE moment and how she handles it doesn’t go down too well. Savannah... honestly, she didn’t make a mark for me in this book. Same old story, trying to figure out who to choose between Damien and Nick (who doesn’t make much of an appearance in this book by the way), and literally, the only thing I picked up from her storyline was her singing career moving forward. That’s about it. Madison, on the other hand, got a lot more interesting. There’s so much more to her and I really like her character now. She also has a huge role in this book, with another secret that shakes her whole world (and is definitely going to be a major part in the next book), so I can’t wait to see where it all goes!

What I didn’t like about the book was this: how flashy it was. I mean, the name dropping didn’t bother me in the first book, but this was pushing it a little too far. I mean, a boy band from the UK called One Connection? HELLO? Not to mention boy band members, Perry Myles, Noel and Kayn... sounds a little too familiar doesn’t it? It just seemed kind of weird considering how many times TV shows, such as The Vampire Diaries and Downton Abbey, are mentioned. It wasn’t just the name dropping though. It seemed like with every pop culture reference there had to be a multiple-sentence explanation as to why it was in the book. To be honest, it kind of hindered my reading experience, and while everything else was quite sound, this was the thing I absolutely disliked, and is something that I dislike with any other book as well.

The end of the book is shocking, but it wasn’t so shocking that I felt like I needed the next book. I liked how the author presented the cliffhanger but I found myself feeling underwhelmed by it all. Hopefully the next book will quench my thirst for the amount of secrets sure to be uncovered. Who will end up with who? What on earth is going to happen to the Diamond sisters and will everything ever be normal again? I really like the title of the final book as well, just like the rest of the titles in this series– a great play on words!

Diamonds in the Rough had so much crazy drama and I enjoyed it so much. In this dazzling world of glitz, glamor and money, secrets and betrayal are never far behind. I can’t wait for the next book, Diamonds are Forever, although I’ll be sad to say goodbye to Michelle Madow’s fantastic series.


▪ ▪ ▪ Thank you so much to Michelle Meadow for sending me a copy for review! ▪ ▪ ▪

[Jennifer]

Diamond in the Rough picks up at the beginning of the school after The Secret Diamond Sisters leaves off in the summer. Serious this book is action packed with drama and even though I knew some things were coming, I didn’t always know what was coming. Michelle Madow definitely throws you through some serious loops that will keep you on your toes and speeding through. Once again we have the perspective of the four girls and I love how we see them change and develop, not only by reading it from them but also seeing them through each others eyes.

I felt like I really bonded with Savannah in Diamonds in the Rough. In The Secret Diamond Sisters I remember often times finding her annoying but only because she acted like a young person trying to fit in. I think I didn’t give her enough credit and I think that she is getting shown in a different light. She wants to fit in, like most teenagers but she is also very aware. More than I think I thought she was in the beginning. She has a heart to heart with Damien of all people, that really put her in perspective for me. She’s still going to make mistakes and do stupid things but the thing about Savannah is that I think her heart is pure.

Peyton...oh Peyton. I still can’t decide if I like her or not. She’s not bad and she’s not as resist to everything as she was in the first book. Some of her choices are kind of off kilter but it’s good to see she actually has a conscience about them as well. She seems to have a need to be loved and where Savannah seeks it through attention, Peyton looks for it to come from a certain person. Yet she seeks people who are unattainable so she doesn’t really have to make a commitment. It feels like nothing seems to ever really go her way.

Dear little Courtney, she sometimes reminds me of me. Her parents or in this case Adrian and Rebecca don’t need to ground her or yell at her. Their disappoint is punishment enough for her. I so desperately wanted Courtney to take a chance on her love life, she works so hard in so many ways but I could see why she was scared. She learned to not be a throw caution to the wind girl because someone has always been counting on her. Even though Peyton wears her heart on her sleeve about their mom, I think Courtney has the most issues with her. She always feels like she is a bit disconnected and some things come to light about the past that definitely sheds some perspective on things.

It’s hard to root for the bully usually but Madison is almost a different kind. This book she has toned down her hate for the sisters and I think it becomes obvious that even though she is kind of a mean girl. There is actually more to her. She has some serious drama in the beginning that turns her world upside down and then things really change for her. She really changes and by the end of the book, she reminds me a little bit of Peyton.

I loved the book. This is such a great teen drama and the setting of Vegas leaves you so many different opportunities. I like that you see the characters changing and learning as they go along. I also really enjoyed the plot and I’m so anxious for the next book. How you can you leave me like that. As always the campus buzz is a nice a touch. It gives you yet another perspective because it’s fellow students commenting about the events going on in the book. If you enjoyed the first book then you will definitely not be disappointed in Diamonds in the Rough. The books keep getting better and I think the next book is going to be a whammy. I can’t wait!

[Stephanie Ehmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

All access doesn't mean no problems.

Find my official review at Ohana Reads!

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Contains Minor Spoilers:


I died when Michelle offered to send me an ARC of Diamonds in the Rough! I adored Secret Diamond Sisters, so her offering just made my month. To hype myself up even more about the book, my name is actually in it! To have my name in a published book would be a first, you could say this book is special to me.
Diamonds in the Rough picks up after summer, where Secret Diamond Sisters takes place and jumps right into the storyline with the Diamond sisters starting school. I loved the private school, it had everything right when it came to education. Small classes, supportive teachers, interesting classes and finally a good cafeteria. To have a small class with a supportive teacher is an amazing thing, you can get so much more achieved. Michelle knew what she was doing when she designed this school.
The secrets exploding out of this book was phenomenal. The book's cover definitely does the book justice. I found myself thinking that there would be a new surprise after every corner.
Michelle is the queen at having hidden meanings, 2 stuck with me after I finished the book. Everyone knows Courtney to be a big book nerd, so to me it wasn't a surprise to me when she was reading in Diamonds in the Rough. What book though? I could't stop giggling when she told us she was reading Remembrance, which was another book which Michelle wrote! The second time I had an uncontrollable giggle fit was when I heard who Samantha's favourite band and singers were! One Connection! Hmm? Does that sound familiar? How about one of the singer's being name Perry Myles? How about now? Does that ring a bell? Well to me it sounded like One Direction and Harry Styles. Michelle you're one sneaky girl!
Diamonds in the Rough was once again written in four different perspectives of Savannah, Courtney, Peyton, and Madison with each chapter being more fantastic then the last. Michelle has once again brought us all into this fabulous world of teenage girlie fun, and I can't wait to see where she takes us next! I suggest everyone pick up the first book in the series immediately, as long as you can handle book hangovers and cliff hangers! I can't wait to get my hands on the third book!

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover for Diamonds in the Rough is perfect for this story. The secrets start flowing from start to end without stop. In some ways this book reminded me of the original Pretty Little Liars series, especially as the plot became more complex as characters’ secret lives began to intersect and intertwine.

The best part of this book is that we get to know the characters so much better than in the previous book. We finally see cracks in Courtney’s goody-two-shoes image, we finally get to delve deeper into the giant chip on Peyton’s shoulder, and we get to see Savannah’s insecurities. I love how real these characters are, Madow doesn’t try to create characters that we want to be, she creates characters that could be in high school today. I can easily relate to Savannah worrying about which clique she is getting siphoned into on the first day of school, Courtney’s anger with her family, and Peyton’s desire to find someone she can relate to.

Unlike the first book, which had to spend a lot of time setting up the story, Diamonds in the Rough dives right in and within the first few chapters a huge secret is revealed which affects everyone and everything that happens. The plot becomes more complex (in a good way) as the book goes on and the characters learn more about their pasts and why their lives have turned out the way they have. It is pretty much impossible to write a real review without spilling something so the best that I can do is to say that you will not be able to put this one down until you are done with the very last page – and the author will leave you begging for more.

Even if you weren’t a huge fan of the first book, the second one elevates the series to a completely new level and you should really give it a chance – this series is as hot as Vegas is .

[Ariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have the secret diamond sisters then you will totally fall completely in love with Diamonds in the Rough. There are so many crazy secrets that come up and just connect the most unsuspecting people. Literally all I can say about it is WOW! I have been processing this book for a week or so before writing this and I still can;t wrap my mind around the ending. Its just such a great cliff hanger and I have to wait even longer for the last book. This series so far is one of the best series I have read and am into. It just grabs you and doesn't let go.
This picks up right where the first one ended and the sisters are starting school. I;m sure if you read the first book then you know who they hate and who they are like and are getting to know. Peyton will surprise you in a great way but is also the same personality. Courtney goes through a lot in this book, with a big secret involving her mostly. It is sad to see her go through this but worth it as well. It needed to happen. Savannah is still doing her singing but you won't believe what happens, but it is great for her and her maybe future career?...Michelle MadowMichelle Madow
I love books where you don't know what is coming or what a secret is and this book definitely does not lead you to already know what is coming, There a quit a few spilled secrets and you will not see any of them coming and if you do see it coming then you wont guess who the person it either affects is or the connection. That's who good this book it. It is a MUST read, and a MUST read on the day it comes out!

[Allyson Bright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think it was possible, but Diamonds in the Rough is even better than the first book in the series!

While The Secret Diamond Sisters introduced us to the sisters and their new life in Las Vegas, Diamonds in the Rough dives further into the characters and their unique struggles as more of their past is revealed.

The family drama, glamorous lifestyle, and lavish settings in this series will appeal to fans of Gossip Girl and Pretty Little Liars. Michelle Madow does an expert job at crafting scenes that seem impossibly crazy, but have you rooting for the characters anyway. Somehow, in the midst of all the glitter, you’ll find yourself not only cheering for the sisters, but relating to them, too.

While the book is indeed about a group of sisters thrown into the craziest of situations, it’s also story about girls on a journey to find themselves and find their way through the turbulence of adolescence – something almost all of us have to go through at one time or another.

Book Three can’t get here fast enough!

[Darcus Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so freakin' in love with this series! I absolutely cannot get enough of Michelle Madow's characters and their lives. It's just sooo good!

I was fortunate enough to get books one and two from the author before they were released and I can only hope I'm lucky enough to get the third.

In The Secret Diamond Sisters we were introduced to the sisters and all the crazy things that happened to them after finding out that they are the daughters of hotel billionaire, Adrian Diamond. In Diamonds In The Rough, we head back to the Las Vega Strip to see what kind of drama they can get into next. And boy is there drama!

I still say this series is like Gossip Girl, Vegas style and it definitely works!

Michelle Madow is an amazing writer and weaves such a crazy world of love, fame and money. Her characters are thrown into this world and the result is beautiful chaos. I love it so much and I absolutely cannot wait to find out what becomes of the Diamond sisters in the next installment.

Favorite Characters: Peyton and Jackson.