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Two Graves
(TWO GRAVES is a short novella, about 70 pages. It is volume #1 in Zoe Kalo's psychological suspense "Retribution" series.)
A Dante-ish descent through a sinister world of decadent shadows and woeful souls…
Seven years ago, he shattered her life. The town eventually forgot the headlines and the nightmares. But 23-year old music student Angelica hasn’t forgotten.
For the past seven years, she’s contemplated payback with as much intensity and unwavering faith as she puts into her violin playing. Finally, all the pieces are in place. Over the course of one night, disguised for a masquerade ball, Angelica orchestrates a journey of revenge.
A Dante-ish descent through a sinister world of decadent shadows and woeful souls…
Seven years ago, he shattered her life. The town eventually forgot the headlines and the nightmares. But 23-year old music student Angelica hasn’t forgotten.
For the past seven years, she’s contemplated payback with as much intensity and unwavering faith as she puts into her violin playing. Finally, all the pieces are in place. Over the course of one night, disguised for a masquerade ball, Angelica orchestrates a journey of revenge.
70 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2016
3 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Kalo
7 books202 followersA certified bookworm, Zoe Kalo has always been obsessed with books and reading. Reading led to writing—compulsively. No surprise that at 16, she wrote her first novel, which her classmates read and passed around secretly. The pleasure of writing and sharing her fantasy worlds has stayed with her, so now she wants to pass her stories to you with no secrecy—but with lots of mystery…
She’s had the good fortune of living on 3 continents, learning 4 languages, and experiencing a multicultural life. She holds a BA in Creative Writing and an MA in Comparative Literature. She lives in Belgium with her husband and two evil cats.
She’s had the good fortune of living on 3 continents, learning 4 languages, and experiencing a multicultural life. She holds a BA in Creative Writing and an MA in Comparative Literature. She lives in Belgium with her husband and two evil cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 6, 2016
Forgive me, but I'm about to roll with a painfully honest review. I'm nice, really...I am.
First the positive: ....crickets chirping......Oh! It has a very pretty cover :) Love the mask :) And....It's blessedly short :)
Now the rest:
This was going to be a low 2* book, because right off the bat I was reading sentences without a subject OR a verb...these things can be understandable when used by an excellent writer as a way to grab attention, but if you are not one of those incredible authors, it is best to avoid these sentences, or you just come across as someone who needs a few more grammar school lessons. I thought that I had finally made it past the poor grammar (or perhaps did't catch it--I'm not a teacher grading a paper after all, just someone who wants to enjoy a good story), when in chapter six I began to read lines like: "me and Shaun"--over and over again. Something most of us learn in grade school--never put yourself first. I was hushed from an early age whenever I started to say "me and.....". Nope, I had to erase those words (if written) and write "Shaun and I", or "Barbara and I"... until I absorbed the lesson and it became a pattern. Today, it's the reading equivalent of nails on the chalkboard; almost like hearing "we was walking" or "I were going to....". No, I'm not the Grammar Police, sorry. I don't plan to say much more about this other than the fact that those elementary mistakes took me out of the story pretty fast.
And this story didn't need any help when it came to the desire to put it down....The first 75% had me wondering what in the world was happening. I finally got that it was about revenge that had something to do with her son, something that had happened when she was 16 and he was three...meaning that she was twelve or thirteen when she got pregnant--okay--that happens. The revenge wasn't against the father, though. Obviously their 'coupling" had been consensual (if that's possible at that age), though there was plenty anger because he chose to leave....ummm....if he's not in jail for statutory rape or worse, that would have made him a child, too, so...I hate to say it, but that gives him a pass in my book. For goodness sakes, here he is, probably still a teenager wanting to make things right...perhaps high-school helped him grow up....that happens every day (ahem). Anyway, he's young and wants to take on responsibility for a thing that occurred when he was probably a child himself. One of the strangest parts about this is they just acted too old; as if the pregnancy had happened at, say--seventeen or so.
No--her revenge is against someone else. We are never told how or why...ugh...just no questions answered. And the tiny one I got--I won't share in case, like me, it's one of the few high points of this story for you as well. What I do know: something happened to her son, and not by the father. What I don't know: anything else.....except Angelica knows who took him, and won't tell the readers....and several descriptions of things in a Dantesque (or, as the book blurb put's it Dante-ish) mansion.
The last 25% was interesting enough to raise my rating to 2.5* (Though the stars will have to stay at two, because three means I liked it, and two stars means "it was ok"--which is quite fair here), though I had only figured a couple things out about the story even then....and certainly not enough...like, what the heck did this guy Angelica was chasing through the Dantesque mansion have to do with her broken heart? Why the heck were cameras watching her every move as he begged to die? And how could she just walk away holding a teddy bear? There were mentions of famous musical works that sounded interesting, as well as Dante's Inferno. If those things are what draw you, I feel you're far better off reading Dante, or listening to violin concertos on your iPad.
Final Judgement
Overall, I needed more--more editing---more answers---more about, "What the heck is this thing I'm reading?" While failing to deliver what I would consider an even half-complete story, Kalo manages to cover up this fact by being VERY descriptive (this over the top amount of description seems to be the consensus of most reviews)....descriptions of the music, the mansion, different masks, red taffeta dresses, peoples lips and hair, doors and ice sculptures, I could write 7 pages of the things she described (and that would be a third, at least of her book)..... someone said this was music put into words....Perhaps if I had a glass of laudanum I would love this, and be able to sway to the "music"....
If you choose to read this, may you have a great time (good luck), but I will forever scratch my head and wonder why couldn't ONE more page be added to answer the tiniest of questions....why, how...this guy???? And what exactly happened, or at least how did she know who--and what--he did? And does she know why he did it? If that confused you at all.....well then, at least you understand how this book made me feel. It felt like a book that was handed to someone who tore out necessary pages at random and published it as a joke.
I found out something very important near the end: near the middle of Dante's Inferno lie..... du du duuuuuuum....... teddy bears. ?WTF
Perhaps I missed it...I feel I'd have to make it up, because I sure wasn't told.....I guess they came from several young boys. Dang! HOW DOES SHE KNOW ANYTHING.....and why won't she share?
I realize that seven horrible years have been spent tracking down the one who took her boy (and his teddy bear, Max) but....give me a break, were the inner circles of hell rearranged because of this...whatever it is...that happened? I honestly can't tell if there are spoilers in here, because I never got it. So forgive me if I spoil someones laudanum laced reverie. Sorry. And, hey--I'm glad Max the teddy bear was recovered....the one with the chipped nose and x's for a mouth...he was very well described.
Vio-lence....... Is that really what the hidden meaning of a violin is...if you're not sipping laudanum??? Is there a hidden meaning to a violin? Perhaps I need to stay away from violin players....
Maybe it's me...perhaps the hundreds of books I've understood were for simpletons....
Thanks to the author, Zoe Kalo, for the chance to read this novella and give an honest review.
February 22, 2017
Two Graves is the story of Angelica who had faced a traumatic event during her teenage years. The event happened seven years back and now Angelica is a 23 year old music student who is back in the town that eventually forgot about what had happened once the news had moved on from the headlines. It is time for her to seek reprisal for what happened on the fateful night and a masquerade ball provides the perfect occasion for it.
Told with help of a narrative style that focuses on alternating timelines, Angelica’s story gives us a glimpse into the past and the present at the same time. It reveals details in instalments and keeps the suspense building. The narrative style is very successful in keeping the secrets just out of the readers grasps until the very end. For major part of the book I wasn’t even sure what the critical ‘event’ was and there were times when I wasn’t even sure whether if it was all in her mind. In any case, trying to piece it together was quite fun. The other good part about the book was that for a novella, it fed me a lot of details. But the best part about the book was how the author has incorporated Dante’s Inferno concept into it. It was so easy to picturize what the author was describing while she was drawing the parallel references to Inferno. As for the characters, the growth of the character of Angelica is very clear. We see her as a teen and as a tween. But that is about it… There wasn’t much depth to the other characters, but then it was not needed for the plot. The author’s prose is quite impressive too – it is exquisite without requiring a reader to sit down with a dictionary.
If I had to pick on something about the book, it would be the length of it. This is a short novella and I was done reading it in about an hour. I wished there was more and hopefully I will get more of the flavor in the other books in this series. It is definitely like nothing that I have ever read before. It left me speechless. It left me thinking and wondering… and in a good way too!
Told with help of a narrative style that focuses on alternating timelines, Angelica’s story gives us a glimpse into the past and the present at the same time. It reveals details in instalments and keeps the suspense building. The narrative style is very successful in keeping the secrets just out of the readers grasps until the very end. For major part of the book I wasn’t even sure what the critical ‘event’ was and there were times when I wasn’t even sure whether if it was all in her mind. In any case, trying to piece it together was quite fun. The other good part about the book was that for a novella, it fed me a lot of details. But the best part about the book was how the author has incorporated Dante’s Inferno concept into it. It was so easy to picturize what the author was describing while she was drawing the parallel references to Inferno. As for the characters, the growth of the character of Angelica is very clear. We see her as a teen and as a tween. But that is about it… There wasn’t much depth to the other characters, but then it was not needed for the plot. The author’s prose is quite impressive too – it is exquisite without requiring a reader to sit down with a dictionary.
If I had to pick on something about the book, it would be the length of it. This is a short novella and I was done reading it in about an hour. I wished there was more and hopefully I will get more of the flavor in the other books in this series. It is definitely like nothing that I have ever read before. It left me speechless. It left me thinking and wondering… and in a good way too!
April 3, 2020
Wow is all I can say after this short ride filled with classic music and Dante's Inferno and the madness borne of loss. The need for revenge and the mind lost to grief. I was given a review copy and I am glad that I was able to get it. It was surely a strange ride but what a ride.
As the story moves between two now and seven years ago and you know more and more about the story it grips you more and more. Though only a novella it shows that a novella can also hold your attention and if you spend less time on a book it doesn't make it bad.
This is the story of Angelica who is a violinist and is chasing someone to get her revenge and for what is cleared over the length of the novella. Thanks Zoe for the short and wonderful ride.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
As the story moves between two now and seven years ago and you know more and more about the story it grips you more and more. Though only a novella it shows that a novella can also hold your attention and if you spend less time on a book it doesn't make it bad.
This is the story of Angelica who is a violinist and is chasing someone to get her revenge and for what is cleared over the length of the novella. Thanks Zoe for the short and wonderful ride.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
October 21, 2016
Book Review
Title: Two Graves
Author: Zoe Kalo
Type of Book: Novella (Approximately 70 pages)
Spoilers below?: Yes.
Introduction: I was really interested in the premise of this book. It sounded suspenseful, potentially spooky, and intense. As soon as I was able to get my hands on this book, I began my read and it shockingly didn't even take my an hour (include probably about 30 minutes of checking social media in that since I got distracted).
Quick Review: The cover is absolutely gorgeous. I know you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, but if you are looking for something pretty to put on your shelf than this book fits the bill. The cover made me get the impression the book might be spooky, but it's not as spooky as you might think. I found this book to be entertaining, but not what I expected from the cover and summary.
Plot: I was incredibly confused by the plot. I understood something happened to the main character's son (which I thought was her brother? She was sixteen, so did she have her kid at twelve or thirteen? The way she talked it was like he was her brother, so was this supposed to be one of those situations where the grandparents raise the grandchild as their own?...) but then I was left confused as to what exactly happened. I re-read this book a few times trying to understand what happened, but I was left even more confused as my brain tried to put the story together. The book at least had my hooked at what supposedly happened, but to no avail. Then, after I got so thrilled to find out what was happening, the book kind of just ended. I know this is going to be a series, but it left me feeling a little sad. Was that the cliffhanger for the next book? I hope so! I want to know so much more! This was only a little seventy page novella, so I hope there's more to come.
I was also very confused as to who the "Father" the main character was talking to. This "Father" left, so I was left assuming this was the Father of both the main character and her "little brother" (Apparently son as I read more reviews). But, she never gives him any form of affection or father-daughter like talk between the two, so I'm assuming he was the Father of her child? I would have liked if this was more specified. As much as I love putting the work into a good mystery, this wasn't much of a mystery, and more of just some plot details left out. If this book was centered on finding how the relationships between the characters, then sweet! I'll do the work for that. But this book did not give me this feel.
I found the sixteen year old version of the main character and the man she talked on the phone with sounded way to adult-like. I know there are very mature kids out there, but it just seemed odd. If these two had a kid together at a very young age, I wouldn't think they'd be acting super mature towards each other and playing the adult roles. It just seemed odd to me, but maybe it isn't. That's just my opinion.
Now here's the real mystery that bugged me - why did this woman want revenge and against whom? This person appears, but we never know why or who he is. It clearly wasn't the Father of her child. Did this person do something to her child? That's hinted at. There just wasn't enough information for me to truly understand. I get wanting to leave a cliffhanger, but this felt like the entire plot wasn't even addressed. It's like, reading Gone Girl (spoiler alert......) and never finding out what happened to Nick Dunne's wife and her never returning - she just leaves and disappears, Nick tries to find her, and then the end in the middle of his hunt. It didn't seem right. Perhaps this was just an introduction to the rest of the series (and that could work!) but without a hint as to when the next book would come out seems unfair to the reader.
Overall: I expected a lot more and I hope more is added (whether it's in this novella or a series of novellas or a series of books). This novella was super interesting, but it was just missing some bits and pieces that would have made it so much better! This author is incredible at describing wardrobes and pieces of music, it'd be a real shame to not see more of her work floating around in my local book shops!
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
This novella was fantastic, and I'm glad I got a chance to read and review it. I definitely want to read more since this book was so well written, and I'm sure there is more to this story lurking in Zoe Kalo's brain. It's intriguing, it left me speechless, and it had my brain working overtime trying to connect anything and everything to try to solve the story.
Title: Two Graves
Author: Zoe Kalo
Type of Book: Novella (Approximately 70 pages)
Spoilers below?: Yes.
Introduction: I was really interested in the premise of this book. It sounded suspenseful, potentially spooky, and intense. As soon as I was able to get my hands on this book, I began my read and it shockingly didn't even take my an hour (include probably about 30 minutes of checking social media in that since I got distracted).
Quick Review: The cover is absolutely gorgeous. I know you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, but if you are looking for something pretty to put on your shelf than this book fits the bill. The cover made me get the impression the book might be spooky, but it's not as spooky as you might think. I found this book to be entertaining, but not what I expected from the cover and summary.
Plot: I was incredibly confused by the plot. I understood something happened to the main character's son (which I thought was her brother? She was sixteen, so did she have her kid at twelve or thirteen? The way she talked it was like he was her brother, so was this supposed to be one of those situations where the grandparents raise the grandchild as their own?...) but then I was left confused as to what exactly happened. I re-read this book a few times trying to understand what happened, but I was left even more confused as my brain tried to put the story together. The book at least had my hooked at what supposedly happened, but to no avail. Then, after I got so thrilled to find out what was happening, the book kind of just ended. I know this is going to be a series, but it left me feeling a little sad. Was that the cliffhanger for the next book? I hope so! I want to know so much more! This was only a little seventy page novella, so I hope there's more to come.
I was also very confused as to who the "Father" the main character was talking to. This "Father" left, so I was left assuming this was the Father of both the main character and her "little brother" (Apparently son as I read more reviews). But, she never gives him any form of affection or father-daughter like talk between the two, so I'm assuming he was the Father of her child? I would have liked if this was more specified. As much as I love putting the work into a good mystery, this wasn't much of a mystery, and more of just some plot details left out. If this book was centered on finding how the relationships between the characters, then sweet! I'll do the work for that. But this book did not give me this feel.
I found the sixteen year old version of the main character and the man she talked on the phone with sounded way to adult-like. I know there are very mature kids out there, but it just seemed odd. If these two had a kid together at a very young age, I wouldn't think they'd be acting super mature towards each other and playing the adult roles. It just seemed odd to me, but maybe it isn't. That's just my opinion.
Now here's the real mystery that bugged me - why did this woman want revenge and against whom? This person appears, but we never know why or who he is. It clearly wasn't the Father of her child. Did this person do something to her child? That's hinted at. There just wasn't enough information for me to truly understand. I get wanting to leave a cliffhanger, but this felt like the entire plot wasn't even addressed. It's like, reading Gone Girl (spoiler alert......) and never finding out what happened to Nick Dunne's wife and her never returning - she just leaves and disappears, Nick tries to find her, and then the end in the middle of his hunt. It didn't seem right. Perhaps this was just an introduction to the rest of the series (and that could work!) but without a hint as to when the next book would come out seems unfair to the reader.
Overall: I expected a lot more and I hope more is added (whether it's in this novella or a series of novellas or a series of books). This novella was super interesting, but it was just missing some bits and pieces that would have made it so much better! This author is incredible at describing wardrobes and pieces of music, it'd be a real shame to not see more of her work floating around in my local book shops!
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
This novella was fantastic, and I'm glad I got a chance to read and review it. I definitely want to read more since this book was so well written, and I'm sure there is more to this story lurking in Zoe Kalo's brain. It's intriguing, it left me speechless, and it had my brain working overtime trying to connect anything and everything to try to solve the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2016
That was such a jumbled mess my brain turned to mush. Thank God this was only 70 pages or so. What a terribly confusing and disappointing book.
This to me felt like the author was so lost in the places of her imagination she forgot their was a reading audience you need to reach and connect with.
For a good 90% of this book I had no clue what was going on, what the plot was, where it was heading and why it was filled with bad grammar and over-the-top wordiness that just drained the lifeblood out of me. I painfully persisted hoping for something at the end to make it worthwhile. No. just no. I'm not alone with my take on this book.
It could have been that words and chapters were scrambled in a blender - it still would read just as frustrating and mindlessly empty. Supposedly we are taken into a "Dante" hellish style set of scenes. Well I've read good horror that does that well but this was a mess.
What the hell was the whole book about? I got the basic clues at the end but then something happens that seems disconnected even more (if at all possible). I think this book might make more sense if I was under the influence of mind-altering drugs!
I just frowned, plodded on and thought to myself where is the story in this novella? I really felt the writer missed out hugely on reaching the audience with this. It felt cold and very insular. Like the author got what the story was but failed in conveying it to the rest of us.Just bizarrely out there. Too far left of centre and a waste of reading time.
Sadly the blurb makes it sound interesting but how it's written just spoils the whole thing. You know when less is more? I wish good professional beta readers had read this before it was let loose on the world.
Lots of reviews pick fault, have readers confused, but then it gets 4 stars? Sometimes I think some reviewers are just scared to be really honest.
I nearly gave it 1 star but for a few redeeming very short scenes that were good bits that should have then been taken somewhere I reluctantly give it 2 stars. Not recommended unless you read all the reviews and just have to know for yourself what you would rate it.
I was given a copy of this book from Authors Assistant to read. All review opinions are entirely my own and totally unbiased.
I'm sad I didn't like it the author being a cat lady like myself and all. I'm sure Zoe is a lovely cat lover - it's the book I disliked.
Please God. Let me never read anything so confusing again as long as I live.
This to me felt like the author was so lost in the places of her imagination she forgot their was a reading audience you need to reach and connect with.
For a good 90% of this book I had no clue what was going on, what the plot was, where it was heading and why it was filled with bad grammar and over-the-top wordiness that just drained the lifeblood out of me. I painfully persisted hoping for something at the end to make it worthwhile. No. just no. I'm not alone with my take on this book.
It could have been that words and chapters were scrambled in a blender - it still would read just as frustrating and mindlessly empty. Supposedly we are taken into a "Dante" hellish style set of scenes. Well I've read good horror that does that well but this was a mess.
What the hell was the whole book about? I got the basic clues at the end but then something happens that seems disconnected even more (if at all possible). I think this book might make more sense if I was under the influence of mind-altering drugs!
I just frowned, plodded on and thought to myself where is the story in this novella? I really felt the writer missed out hugely on reaching the audience with this. It felt cold and very insular. Like the author got what the story was but failed in conveying it to the rest of us.Just bizarrely out there. Too far left of centre and a waste of reading time.
Sadly the blurb makes it sound interesting but how it's written just spoils the whole thing. You know when less is more? I wish good professional beta readers had read this before it was let loose on the world.
Lots of reviews pick fault, have readers confused, but then it gets 4 stars? Sometimes I think some reviewers are just scared to be really honest.
I nearly gave it 1 star but for a few redeeming very short scenes that were good bits that should have then been taken somewhere I reluctantly give it 2 stars. Not recommended unless you read all the reviews and just have to know for yourself what you would rate it.
I was given a copy of this book from Authors Assistant to read. All review opinions are entirely my own and totally unbiased.
I'm sad I didn't like it the author being a cat lady like myself and all. I'm sure Zoe is a lovely cat lover - it's the book I disliked.
Please God. Let me never read anything so confusing again as long as I live.
December 9, 2016
Descriptive writing
But not for me and I'll tell you why. I'm not a fan of w book who goes back and forth from the past to the present, it makes the actual dead confusing. This story in particular felt like two different tales being told at once.
But not for me and I'll tell you why. I'm not a fan of w book who goes back and forth from the past to the present, it makes the actual dead confusing. This story in particular felt like two different tales being told at once.
September 23, 2016
Despite being a short, I couldn't finish this. 21% in and I still don't even know what the story is. It's weird and far, far too descriptive.
September 30, 2016
It was a sort of serendipity that led me to Two Graves. I typically don't run out to pick up thrillers. But, I had *really* enjoyed Kalo's Daughter of the Sun, a fantasy, so I figured I would give this work a shot as well, and after agreeing to do a review I bought a copy.
And. Oh. My. It is a wild ride.
From the outset, you can tell something dark is about to go down, a tale of the culmination of a seven year revenge quest. On page one, I was lukewarm, but by page two, I was utterly hooked, and didn't stop feeling this way until the end—obviously it's a short read, but it leaves you breathless the entire way. The execution is sublime and original, a descent into a decadent and lavishly painted hell as Angelica pursues the man who has haunts her (for reasons I will not spoil here.) The very act of moving from room to room becomes a poetic odyssey mirroring Dante's Inferno in many ways, Angelica's mind twisting and seeming to fall into madness the closer she gets to her prey (the tale's called Two Graves for a good reason, I suspect.) She's starkly characterized and unforgettable. I will be thinking about her quest for a long time, I believe. And the music! Oh, wow. The description that goes into the music is the most accomplished I've seen the written word pull off for a long time.
With such near hyperbolic praise for it's style, you might be hard pressed to understand: why 4 stars? There was a moment that *felt* like a large revelation about the family of the billionaire whose house Angelica stalks, but perhaps because I was soaking in the laudanum-laced visuals, I think I missed some critical data that would have made the importance of said revelation stick. I went back and re-read the work—really no chore, I liked it as much the second time—but I still wasn't quite able to piece the meaning behind the reveal together.
That's a small potato criticism, however, and perhaps for other eagle-eyed readers, it won't matter. The ending was still very satisfying for me. And if you enjoy the violin, dreamlike narratives, darkness, and revenge, this will take your breath away, too.
And. Oh. My. It is a wild ride.
From the outset, you can tell something dark is about to go down, a tale of the culmination of a seven year revenge quest. On page one, I was lukewarm, but by page two, I was utterly hooked, and didn't stop feeling this way until the end—obviously it's a short read, but it leaves you breathless the entire way. The execution is sublime and original, a descent into a decadent and lavishly painted hell as Angelica pursues the man who has haunts her (for reasons I will not spoil here.) The very act of moving from room to room becomes a poetic odyssey mirroring Dante's Inferno in many ways, Angelica's mind twisting and seeming to fall into madness the closer she gets to her prey (the tale's called Two Graves for a good reason, I suspect.) She's starkly characterized and unforgettable. I will be thinking about her quest for a long time, I believe. And the music! Oh, wow. The description that goes into the music is the most accomplished I've seen the written word pull off for a long time.
With such near hyperbolic praise for it's style, you might be hard pressed to understand: why 4 stars? There was a moment that *felt* like a large revelation about the family of the billionaire whose house Angelica stalks, but perhaps because I was soaking in the laudanum-laced visuals, I think I missed some critical data that would have made the importance of said revelation stick. I went back and re-read the work—really no chore, I liked it as much the second time—but I still wasn't quite able to piece the meaning behind the reveal together.
That's a small potato criticism, however, and perhaps for other eagle-eyed readers, it won't matter. The ending was still very satisfying for me. And if you enjoy the violin, dreamlike narratives, darkness, and revenge, this will take your breath away, too.
October 18, 2016
more 3.5 than 4 but still good. I am still reeling over this book. It is very dark and very loopy. You are truly brought into a dante like state of worlds and reality. But the world doesn’t seem real. Reality doesn’t seem to be. We go between the now and a ball and Angelica’s past. The past that brought her to this moment.
But the past is only glimpses and not one that is truly known. We know that it changed Angelica. How is still to be known. We know that it brought this ball about in some way. We know that the past was agonizing and painful. The ball is trippy in its own way. We have rooms that are surreal and almost like Dante’s different circles of hell but with pleasure for some in there. It really is written in a surreal way. We follow Angelica through these rooms that give each person a different experience and hers aren’t always roses and sunshine. She made some mistakes to this point in life but now her mind is on revenge. Revenge for her son but we don’t really get the whole of why. Whatever it was it leads to one culminating point and some freaky teddy bear room that is Steven Kingish to me.
The ending was interesting and fit the flow of the book. this is a journey for Angelica and the stranger she follows. She doesn’t really get her answer only more riddles and I don’t think she gets closure either. So many unanswered questions for the reader and Angelica in the end that has you wondering was what Angelica just went through real or imagined. A truly dark journey of a book that leaves shivers up your spine and keeps you wondering what will transpire next and what happened. A book for October and one that leaves you reeling and wondering. Nicely done in that aspect for you just are in a state of surreal belief/disbelief at the end and wondering what and in a way desiring more.
But the past is only glimpses and not one that is truly known. We know that it changed Angelica. How is still to be known. We know that it brought this ball about in some way. We know that the past was agonizing and painful. The ball is trippy in its own way. We have rooms that are surreal and almost like Dante’s different circles of hell but with pleasure for some in there. It really is written in a surreal way. We follow Angelica through these rooms that give each person a different experience and hers aren’t always roses and sunshine. She made some mistakes to this point in life but now her mind is on revenge. Revenge for her son but we don’t really get the whole of why. Whatever it was it leads to one culminating point and some freaky teddy bear room that is Steven Kingish to me.
The ending was interesting and fit the flow of the book. this is a journey for Angelica and the stranger she follows. She doesn’t really get her answer only more riddles and I don’t think she gets closure either. So many unanswered questions for the reader and Angelica in the end that has you wondering was what Angelica just went through real or imagined. A truly dark journey of a book that leaves shivers up your spine and keeps you wondering what will transpire next and what happened. A book for October and one that leaves you reeling and wondering. Nicely done in that aspect for you just are in a state of surreal belief/disbelief at the end and wondering what and in a way desiring more.
October 4, 2016
I was given an opportunity to read and review this book by Authors Assistant......
I had a difficult time grasping this book. It jumped around to quickly. There was no flow. Kept jumping back and forth between "present" and "seven years ago." This book had an obvious plot from the beginning.
Revenge.
Which would have been okay, but it was quite dark.
The main quote that got my attention was: "Want to know my recipe for courage?" I said barely above a whisper. "Welcome Death, there's nothing to lose. When there's nothing to lose, there's nothing to fear."
The structure of the character, Angelic, was a little chaotic.
I have no clue where the title "Two Graves" comes into place.
I'm not sure how the theme of the novel, which is not only revenge, it's also music and Dante's Inferno, comes into play.
All I could grasp was a troubled musician, trying to get revenge, for a lost child.
I think the novel would have been better if longer and more information.
What happened to the child? How did he die? Did he die or did he go missing? What was Angelic's breaking point at loosing her child? WHO was the Maestro? How did Angelic get to the orchestra?
In the end I was left with more questions than answers.
I had a difficult time grasping this book. It jumped around to quickly. There was no flow. Kept jumping back and forth between "present" and "seven years ago." This book had an obvious plot from the beginning.
Revenge.
Which would have been okay, but it was quite dark.
The main quote that got my attention was: "Want to know my recipe for courage?" I said barely above a whisper. "Welcome Death, there's nothing to lose. When there's nothing to lose, there's nothing to fear."
The structure of the character, Angelic, was a little chaotic.
I have no clue where the title "Two Graves" comes into place.
I'm not sure how the theme of the novel, which is not only revenge, it's also music and Dante's Inferno, comes into play.
All I could grasp was a troubled musician, trying to get revenge, for a lost child.
I think the novel would have been better if longer and more information.
What happened to the child? How did he die? Did he die or did he go missing? What was Angelic's breaking point at loosing her child? WHO was the Maestro? How did Angelic get to the orchestra?
In the end I was left with more questions than answers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2017
Title: Two Graves
Author: Zoe Kalo
Genre: NA Dark Psychological Suspense
Format: Ebook
Shelf: Review
Pages: 70
Rating: 4
Heat: 0
Thoughts: This was fascinating! The use of Dante's levels of hell portrayed in the rooms of the mansion was something I would love to actually see. The story jumped back and forth from "today" to 7 years ago and it wasn't until close to the end that we find out why Angelica is seeking payback. I hope as the series continues that there's more... more detail, more... just more. I didn't want it to end, it was like listening to a song that gives you chills yet you can't turn it off.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and voluntarily chose to review.
Author: Zoe Kalo
Genre: NA Dark Psychological Suspense
Format: Ebook
Shelf: Review
Pages: 70
Rating: 4
Heat: 0
Thoughts: This was fascinating! The use of Dante's levels of hell portrayed in the rooms of the mansion was something I would love to actually see. The story jumped back and forth from "today" to 7 years ago and it wasn't until close to the end that we find out why Angelica is seeking payback. I hope as the series continues that there's more... more detail, more... just more. I didn't want it to end, it was like listening to a song that gives you chills yet you can't turn it off.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and voluntarily chose to review.
November 28, 2017
Sometimes you read a book that makes you think 'what the hell have I just read?' and this story is one of those that leaves you wondering afterwards.
Angelica is a woman on a revenge mission seven years in the making and when she attends a masquerade ball at a mansion she, and the reader, is plunged into a psychological odyssey, of sinister opulence and decadence. She is immersed into Dante's seven circles with twists that take her to the edge of insanity.
Alongside, the event of seven years ago are revealed to the reader in a parallel narration so we understand her obsession with revenge.
This is a great quick read. The descriptions were amazing and every scene felt like I watched it on a cinema screen. However, the ending left me a little nonplussed and I had to re-read the last chapter. I suppose it was written that way on purpose.
Still, if you enjoy literary fiction or psychological suspense, then you will enjoy this one.
Angelica is a woman on a revenge mission seven years in the making and when she attends a masquerade ball at a mansion she, and the reader, is plunged into a psychological odyssey, of sinister opulence and decadence. She is immersed into Dante's seven circles with twists that take her to the edge of insanity.
Alongside, the event of seven years ago are revealed to the reader in a parallel narration so we understand her obsession with revenge.
This is a great quick read. The descriptions were amazing and every scene felt like I watched it on a cinema screen. However, the ending left me a little nonplussed and I had to re-read the last chapter. I suppose it was written that way on purpose.
Still, if you enjoy literary fiction or psychological suspense, then you will enjoy this one.
October 4, 2016
I received an ARC. This in way influences my review.
The book cover didn't do anything for me. It wasn't totally relevant but the blurb reeled me with the hint of a mystery/thriller feel. I am still reeling from the overload and the impression of the book.
It's a short story but the start was seriously slow. Even after one-fourth into the book, you are still scrambling trying to figure out Angelica and her story. In hindsight, the blurb makes better sense. And it does fill out the gaps in the book. Oh yes, you get only impressions while reading so you are really left out to figure out on your own. A few glimpses here and there has you piecing together the story.
The characters aren't developed slowly and fully. But they are characteristically developed enough to snag your attention. The alternate views of the present and the past ( 7 years ago ) mesh together to form a seamless narration. The description is quite creepy at times and overwhelming at other points. The ending does make sense but I, personally, wasn't satisfied. I felt it could have had more closure. Other than that it was a great psychological chiller.
My rating : 4/5
The book cover didn't do anything for me. It wasn't totally relevant but the blurb reeled me with the hint of a mystery/thriller feel. I am still reeling from the overload and the impression of the book.
It's a short story but the start was seriously slow. Even after one-fourth into the book, you are still scrambling trying to figure out Angelica and her story. In hindsight, the blurb makes better sense. And it does fill out the gaps in the book. Oh yes, you get only impressions while reading so you are really left out to figure out on your own. A few glimpses here and there has you piecing together the story.
The characters aren't developed slowly and fully. But they are characteristically developed enough to snag your attention. The alternate views of the present and the past ( 7 years ago ) mesh together to form a seamless narration. The description is quite creepy at times and overwhelming at other points. The ending does make sense but I, personally, wasn't satisfied. I felt it could have had more closure. Other than that it was a great psychological chiller.
My rating : 4/5
October 7, 2016
I was given this book by authors assistant to review. It goes from the past to present. I am not really sure what the story is all about.I really like the cover to it and it was an interesting, strange read. I found the writing to be good, but I didn't understand the book at all. Im sure there must be another one in the works tho because the story to this one looks like there might be. Not going to spoil the book. but if u find the details of it interesting, you might like it.
September 21, 2016
I've read one book by Zoe Kalo - Cult of the Cat #1 - which I really enjoyed as an original and intriguing YA, so when I was asked to read 'Two Graves' I was pretty excited. Usually I find that novellas can be pretty dissatisfying, but Kalo's work here is very good.
It follows Angelica whose life was ruined 23 years ago, and takes place over one day after an orchestral performance where she exacts her well-planned revenge.
One thing that particularly interested me was that I am a violinist (and I didn't know when I agreed that this was the case) and Angelica is a professional violinist at all - how's that for coincidence? Kalo has a real way with words, this being my favourite example from the novella:
“Ever wondered the hidden meaning behind the word violin? Viol…once.”
As a psychological thriller there are lots of shards of portent throughout the narrative, and, as such, it is something worth reading twice - I certainly plan to. At only approximately 30 pages, it isn't a huge time investment (I read it in under an hour), but to fully appreciate I'd like to read it again.
Just a warning: If you have read 'Cult of the Cat,' this is very different. It's dark. Very dark. In a delicious way, but probably not suitable for the same kind of readers.
Congratulations Zoe Kalo.
(Disclaimer: I was given a free copy for review, but all thoughts and opinions are my own).
It follows Angelica whose life was ruined 23 years ago, and takes place over one day after an orchestral performance where she exacts her well-planned revenge.
One thing that particularly interested me was that I am a violinist (and I didn't know when I agreed that this was the case) and Angelica is a professional violinist at all - how's that for coincidence? Kalo has a real way with words, this being my favourite example from the novella:
“Ever wondered the hidden meaning behind the word violin? Viol…once.”
As a psychological thriller there are lots of shards of portent throughout the narrative, and, as such, it is something worth reading twice - I certainly plan to. At only approximately 30 pages, it isn't a huge time investment (I read it in under an hour), but to fully appreciate I'd like to read it again.
Just a warning: If you have read 'Cult of the Cat,' this is very different. It's dark. Very dark. In a delicious way, but probably not suitable for the same kind of readers.
Congratulations Zoe Kalo.
(Disclaimer: I was given a free copy for review, but all thoughts and opinions are my own).
October 2, 2016
For other reviews and bookish things go to http://youmaysayimareader.blogspot.com
***I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.***
Well... That was different. Or maybe just plain weird, I'm not sure.
I was scratching my head all the way through, so when I was done I was left with little to no answers, a sore scalp and the vague sensation that someone had slipped drugs in my drink.
Even so, it was a short and pretty fast read, with a dark and almost smothering feeling to it. The author did a good job with the descriptions (even though I prefer not-so-descriptive books), they were told in a different way and they helped wih the feeling of opression the story has.
Something really interesting is the use of Dante's Inferno and classical music pieces, if you know about this stuff. But being the simpleton I am, as I haven't read Dante's Inferno and I don't know shit about classical music, this lead to more head scratching.
To conclude, Two Graves was an interesting and confusing as all hell read that left a WTF look all over my face.
S.
"Laugh at the grief that poisons your heart."
***I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.***
Well... That was different. Or maybe just plain weird, I'm not sure.
I was scratching my head all the way through, so when I was done I was left with little to no answers, a sore scalp and the vague sensation that someone had slipped drugs in my drink.
Even so, it was a short and pretty fast read, with a dark and almost smothering feeling to it. The author did a good job with the descriptions (even though I prefer not-so-descriptive books), they were told in a different way and they helped wih the feeling of opression the story has.
"Want to know my recipe for courage? Welcome death. When you welcome death, there's nothing to lose, there's no fear."
Something really interesting is the use of Dante's Inferno and classical music pieces, if you know about this stuff. But being the simpleton I am, as I haven't read Dante's Inferno and I don't know shit about classical music, this lead to more head scratching.
To conclude, Two Graves was an interesting and confusing as all hell read that left a WTF look all over my face.
"Ever wondered the hidden meaning behind the word violin? Viol...ence."
S.
October 7, 2016
This is a gripping novella that holds you tight until the end. You would feel as if you are blindfolded and let to hold onto the end of a drawstring pulled towards the abyss of darkness. Atleast that's how Angelica felt.This story is about her, a 23 year old woman striving to take a revenge. What happened that invested her in such a dangerous act ? The author has smartly didn't pull that trigger until the end. You won't have any idea until the end. I really liked that part. The way the author has narrated - style of writing, as well as the progression of the plot were good. But I personally found a lot of obscurity dragging down the pace of the story. The thoughts of Angelica were throughout confused and which might very well lead to the confusion among readers. as it is a short novella, most questions will always go unanswered.
It is a brave attempt to tell a story such as this and in the way it has been laid out. I should really appreciate the writing style for the author. Kept me engaged until the end.
It is a brave attempt to tell a story such as this and in the way it has been laid out. I should really appreciate the writing style for the author. Kept me engaged until the end.
September 21, 2016
This little novella may only be 70 pages long, but it holds its own amongst psychological thrillers. Angelica’s heart was irreparably broken, and she’s out for revenge. Her story is dark, emotional, and an almost tactile experience for the reader; Kalo transforms reality so completely that you nearly taste the wine that darkens the lips of partygoers, nearly feel the smoke and fog stretching into your lungs, nearly smell the blood, shiny and slick beneath your feet.
Not bad for a half-day’s read, am I right?
Disclaimer: I received a free digital copy of this book (a first round edited copy) in exchange for an honest review.
Not bad for a half-day’s read, am I right?
Disclaimer: I received a free digital copy of this book (a first round edited copy) in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2016
I first off would like to say thank you to the author for sending this advanced corrected copy and then say
I have a new rating system which I'm going to try sticking with and the reason I gave this one a four is because it was okay and it's actually a low four at that. I really was confused about this book and actually didn't understand it myself but this is all my own opinions and my own ratings. Maybe if others read it they might be able to get more out of it so don't judge this book by my opinion you will just have to read it yourself to find out what you think of it...
I have a new rating system which I'm going to try sticking with and the reason I gave this one a four is because it was okay and it's actually a low four at that. I really was confused about this book and actually didn't understand it myself but this is all my own opinions and my own ratings. Maybe if others read it they might be able to get more out of it so don't judge this book by my opinion you will just have to read it yourself to find out what you think of it...
September 22, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. I really enjoyed the novella and the author's use of parallels with Dante's Inferno. I also really enjoyed the musical element. As is the nature of a novella, it was short and compact but contained everything needed.
October 10, 2016
My video review for this book is now up, here's the link if you'd like to check it out.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6jnV...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6jnV...
October 30, 2018
Knowing that this is a novella, I approached it with certain expectations: that there would be unanswered questions, that the exploration of character would be limited, that the plot would likely not come to a full resolution. (These are, largely, the areas where the length of the work is demonstrably an impediment to its depth and breadth).
I found the blurb about the piece was extremely deceptive, and really didn't capture the story well at all. (It does hit certain high points, but it also imparts information that the reader doesn't learn, and it really didn't convey the trippy nature of the book, which is important for potential readers to know).
The idea behind this novella is fantastic and very intriguing. The structure - a story told in two alternating time periods, but chronologically - is extremely ambitious. The world-building - especially at the masquerade - is fantastic - it's so richly rendered. I think the characters in the past are much more relatable (I have a suspicion that's by design and I think it's the right choice).
Where this falls flat for me is in the execution, and in some of the details:
To begin with, I think Angelica would have been better served had age been adjusted. It would have been more believable had she been aged up or her son aged down (or both!) The character, as a 16 year-old mother to a 3 year-old, is tragic and demands explanation (we are left with none). In addition to her musical ability (which demands hours of daily practise - even before taking the audition process into account), it seems that her family situation (read: support network) is complex - the reader is largely in the dark about the level of support her family provides. I think either a longer format work or the age adjustment would have mitigated some of these concerns.
There is a precipitating event which the readers don't ever learn of in detail. I think this is a missed opportunity for the readers to empathise with and recast Angelica's actions under a new light. But the readers would need to understand her utter devastation and source of her rage, as well as to have come to care for her younger self.
In addition, we have no information about the intervening seven years at all. A glimpse into how Angelica spent her time, fallout from the tragedy, etc, would have added layers to our understanding of her. This is another missed opportunity for character development.
There are some awkward grammatical errors and expressions. I allow for the fact that this is narrated by the main character - who, due to her own background, colloquialisms, education, etc, may not use correct English. Still, I think it's important to be very careful and deliberate in choosing a character's accent and word choice, and I'm not convinced that these fall into that educated choice category - they read like mistakes.
The sections in the present (at the masquerade) made me feel that I was on some sort of drug trip. I rather liked the confusing, off-balance feel of this, but it's not going to engage everyone. I also found myself questioning whether the character was suffering from a mental illness (and this party was her hallucination) or whether she had, in fact, suicided, and this is her personal journey into the Inferno. (I'm still not certain, as a matter of fact, and that may well be the author's point).
I think, generally, the idea of blending Dante's Inferno with a soundtrack into the plot was quite ingenious. For the record, I'm disappointed that Lizt's Dante Symphony was not included, although it is rather a bit of an underdog! (I only heard it for the first time a year ago, and I'm obsessed!)
For me, the bones of a really great story are there, and I think I understand where the author was trying to go in using a non-linear format, and I applaud the experimentation. I think, with a few tweaks (to ensure the reader is firmly buckled in for the ride), it has a lot of promise, but I also feel that the version I read could use some polishing.
I found the blurb about the piece was extremely deceptive, and really didn't capture the story well at all. (It does hit certain high points, but it also imparts information that the reader doesn't learn, and it really didn't convey the trippy nature of the book, which is important for potential readers to know).
The idea behind this novella is fantastic and very intriguing. The structure - a story told in two alternating time periods, but chronologically - is extremely ambitious. The world-building - especially at the masquerade - is fantastic - it's so richly rendered. I think the characters in the past are much more relatable (I have a suspicion that's by design and I think it's the right choice).
Where this falls flat for me is in the execution, and in some of the details:
To begin with, I think Angelica would have been better served had age been adjusted. It would have been more believable had she been aged up or her son aged down (or both!) The character, as a 16 year-old mother to a 3 year-old, is tragic and demands explanation (we are left with none). In addition to her musical ability (which demands hours of daily practise - even before taking the audition process into account), it seems that her family situation (read: support network) is complex - the reader is largely in the dark about the level of support her family provides. I think either a longer format work or the age adjustment would have mitigated some of these concerns.
There is a precipitating event which the readers don't ever learn of in detail. I think this is a missed opportunity for the readers to empathise with and recast Angelica's actions under a new light. But the readers would need to understand her utter devastation and source of her rage, as well as to have come to care for her younger self.
In addition, we have no information about the intervening seven years at all. A glimpse into how Angelica spent her time, fallout from the tragedy, etc, would have added layers to our understanding of her. This is another missed opportunity for character development.
There are some awkward grammatical errors and expressions. I allow for the fact that this is narrated by the main character - who, due to her own background, colloquialisms, education, etc, may not use correct English. Still, I think it's important to be very careful and deliberate in choosing a character's accent and word choice, and I'm not convinced that these fall into that educated choice category - they read like mistakes.
The sections in the present (at the masquerade) made me feel that I was on some sort of drug trip. I rather liked the confusing, off-balance feel of this, but it's not going to engage everyone. I also found myself questioning whether the character was suffering from a mental illness (and this party was her hallucination) or whether she had, in fact, suicided, and this is her personal journey into the Inferno. (I'm still not certain, as a matter of fact, and that may well be the author's point).
I think, generally, the idea of blending Dante's Inferno with a soundtrack into the plot was quite ingenious. For the record, I'm disappointed that Lizt's Dante Symphony was not included, although it is rather a bit of an underdog! (I only heard it for the first time a year ago, and I'm obsessed!)
For me, the bones of a really great story are there, and I think I understand where the author was trying to go in using a non-linear format, and I applaud the experimentation. I think, with a few tweaks (to ensure the reader is firmly buckled in for the ride), it has a lot of promise, but I also feel that the version I read could use some polishing.
October 4, 2016
**This is a Window Seat Blog Review: http://readinginthewindowseat.blogspo... **
Being that this is a novella, it's a pretty quick read, for that reason alone, if you're into psychological stories I'd recommend picking this one up. That being said, I wasn't as in love with this as I hoped when I read the blurb and signed up for the R2R. I'm a big fan of Dante's Inferno and was really looking forward to seeing how that made it into this. I'm not sure how I got it into my head that there'd be some form of romance in this, but there definitely is not. That's not a deal breaker for me, at all, just something worth mentioning in case there are others out there who are looking for that. The blurb also makes it clear that the main character, Angelica, is currently 23, and that the event she's seeking revenge for happened 7 years ago, however, while reading this get's a bit confusing. Honestly, even though it's retold in the story itself, the constant back of forth of the timeline makes her age confusing. She doesn't seem like a young teen in the beginning, and she would be 16. I'm also not sure she would be doing her college interview/audition at that age. Usually it's junior year when things like this take place and she would be on her way to turning 17. Of course, she could be a 16 year old who's a junior in high school, but if that's the case (and I think it is) that needs to be clarified. Because it isn't, it's hard to get into the flashback aspects of the story. I spent too much time struggling to picture her as a sixteen year old, especially because (and this is somewhat of a spoiler, I suppose so you're warned) her son is at least 3 years old already. I say at least because I'm pretty sure at one point in the beginning it's mentioned he's 4, and then later he's mentioned as 3. This could just be my mistake, and if so I apologize, but the point is she had to have had him at an even younger age than 16, and I don't get that feeling from her. Add in the overly zealous mother, the wacky tired grandmother, and the ex who did something (we never find out what, but I assume it was abandon them) who wants to get back into their lives, and it's just a bit much for something less than 100 pages. And that's just for the flashbacks.
When we aren't in flashback mode, we're in the present where she's now 23 and it's been 7 years since this horrible thing happened to her (another event we never really get clear details about). As the story progresses we understand, vaguely, what happened, but nothing is definitively spelled out, which I found very disappointing. We keep being told that her target is a monster, yet we rarely see it. Instead, we see all these other crazy people acting like loons and even a boy who slits his own wrists. Right in front of her. What does she do? Not call the cops. I understand that would ruin her plan for revenge but, let's be honest for a moment, what plan? Because she didn't have one, not really. Unless her plan was to get completely turned around and lost in some crazy old guys giant house... By the end, she pulls the gun out and that's it, she doesn't even care there are cameras. If that's the case, she could have just shot him at any one of the rehearsals she had to sit through with him before this story even started. It would mean there's no novella, but it would also make a hell of a lot more sense for her. Which brings me to the happenings at the party in that mansion. Very little of it made sense. I was often times more confused about what was going on, where the hell she was, and what she was seeing. Because of this, it was really hard for me to follow, or even care, about the story. By these points I wanted to resume the flashbacks because at least they were straight forward, even if they rarely gave us useful information. She moves through the rooms way too quickly, and the descriptions about how all of the guests are acting are rushed and muddled. I understand this is a party with drugs and, apparently, sex in random places out in the open, but that should be explained from the very beginning. When I think of a production like the one they put on (they seem like professional musicians, even though it's mentioned they're still in school) and a mascaraed ball after I think elegance and high society. Basically, I think of people trying to appear prime and proper, but this is not that type of party, and I would have liked to be told from the very beginning. It's so complicated, with all of the different rooms and the house that is basically then like a maze, that I never knew where Angelica was supposed to be. It was obviously then very obvious she was following her target so how she thought she could keep that from him is beyond me. Again, not very stealthy. Going back to that one scene where a guy kills himself in front of her...It felt so forced. What should have felt like a thrilling, and sad, desperate moment, fell flat. I felt like by that point everything else was so confusing that now she was hallucinating him. And then when she wasn't (at least I think she wasn't) the information she got from him was something that could have been gained a different way. It wasn't even that shocking, and it should have been a shocking reveal about her target. Instead, I would have liked to see her figure it out on her own by being sneaky. She's had seven years. What has she got to show for that? She got her gun license. Wow. Good planning. And that ending...Not enough was explained. Almost nothing was explained, in fact, just eluded to, which for me wasn't enough. Unfortunately, the story I was interested in was the actual act that caused her to go on a seven year long revenge plan, and then also a story involving an actual revenge plan. I didn't get either of these things. And her hallucinations? Not necessary. In fact, they only served to confuse me more, especially because by that point it's been so long and she's been planning this so long I feel like she'd have gotten past that stage already. Or, at the very least, have been experiencing it the whole time. If we were told she's spent the past seven years hallucinating, which has made it impossible for her to move on, then I would have bought into it. That would also explain why she's acting so manic and insists she has a plan when she obviously does not have one.
All that being said, you're probably wondering why I gave this novella 3 stars. That's why. Because it's a novella. If this was a novel, it would be amazing. Not even, add another 30 pages and I could see this being ten times better than it is. That's because, as stated above, everything in this was rushed. Because of that it was confusing, hard to follow, and hard to connect with. I could feel bad for Angelica if I actually got to see/know, in detail, what happened. I could understand that she's seeking revenge and yet doesn't actually have a plan if I saw how she's been dealing the past 7 years. Like, what ever happened to the father? Or her mother? Or her grandmother? How are all of them dealing? We don't know, and because of that it's hard to care about them during the flashbacks. If Angelica is going to have that many issues in her past, they need to be given to us in smaller doses, not all at once, so that we can connect with her. If this was a longer work, that would be possible. It would also then make describing the many rooms (the layers of hell from Dante's inferno) less of a hindrance on the reader and more of an eye catcher. As it is, because it's so much being packed into so few pages it's way too hard to follow and the descriptions are boring, confusing, and makes the rest of the story drag. So, basically, I gave 3 stars because of the idea behind this, and the potential I think this story has. As this is part of a new series that's coming out, I hope that the next book will be better explained, and contain either less meaningless description or more meaningful pages. I would still read the next installment because of how much potential I can see in this story.
Being that this is a novella, it's a pretty quick read, for that reason alone, if you're into psychological stories I'd recommend picking this one up. That being said, I wasn't as in love with this as I hoped when I read the blurb and signed up for the R2R. I'm a big fan of Dante's Inferno and was really looking forward to seeing how that made it into this. I'm not sure how I got it into my head that there'd be some form of romance in this, but there definitely is not. That's not a deal breaker for me, at all, just something worth mentioning in case there are others out there who are looking for that. The blurb also makes it clear that the main character, Angelica, is currently 23, and that the event she's seeking revenge for happened 7 years ago, however, while reading this get's a bit confusing. Honestly, even though it's retold in the story itself, the constant back of forth of the timeline makes her age confusing. She doesn't seem like a young teen in the beginning, and she would be 16. I'm also not sure she would be doing her college interview/audition at that age. Usually it's junior year when things like this take place and she would be on her way to turning 17. Of course, she could be a 16 year old who's a junior in high school, but if that's the case (and I think it is) that needs to be clarified. Because it isn't, it's hard to get into the flashback aspects of the story. I spent too much time struggling to picture her as a sixteen year old, especially because (and this is somewhat of a spoiler, I suppose so you're warned) her son is at least 3 years old already. I say at least because I'm pretty sure at one point in the beginning it's mentioned he's 4, and then later he's mentioned as 3. This could just be my mistake, and if so I apologize, but the point is she had to have had him at an even younger age than 16, and I don't get that feeling from her. Add in the overly zealous mother, the wacky tired grandmother, and the ex who did something (we never find out what, but I assume it was abandon them) who wants to get back into their lives, and it's just a bit much for something less than 100 pages. And that's just for the flashbacks.
When we aren't in flashback mode, we're in the present where she's now 23 and it's been 7 years since this horrible thing happened to her (another event we never really get clear details about). As the story progresses we understand, vaguely, what happened, but nothing is definitively spelled out, which I found very disappointing. We keep being told that her target is a monster, yet we rarely see it. Instead, we see all these other crazy people acting like loons and even a boy who slits his own wrists. Right in front of her. What does she do? Not call the cops. I understand that would ruin her plan for revenge but, let's be honest for a moment, what plan? Because she didn't have one, not really. Unless her plan was to get completely turned around and lost in some crazy old guys giant house... By the end, she pulls the gun out and that's it, she doesn't even care there are cameras. If that's the case, she could have just shot him at any one of the rehearsals she had to sit through with him before this story even started. It would mean there's no novella, but it would also make a hell of a lot more sense for her. Which brings me to the happenings at the party in that mansion. Very little of it made sense. I was often times more confused about what was going on, where the hell she was, and what she was seeing. Because of this, it was really hard for me to follow, or even care, about the story. By these points I wanted to resume the flashbacks because at least they were straight forward, even if they rarely gave us useful information. She moves through the rooms way too quickly, and the descriptions about how all of the guests are acting are rushed and muddled. I understand this is a party with drugs and, apparently, sex in random places out in the open, but that should be explained from the very beginning. When I think of a production like the one they put on (they seem like professional musicians, even though it's mentioned they're still in school) and a mascaraed ball after I think elegance and high society. Basically, I think of people trying to appear prime and proper, but this is not that type of party, and I would have liked to be told from the very beginning. It's so complicated, with all of the different rooms and the house that is basically then like a maze, that I never knew where Angelica was supposed to be. It was obviously then very obvious she was following her target so how she thought she could keep that from him is beyond me. Again, not very stealthy. Going back to that one scene where a guy kills himself in front of her...It felt so forced. What should have felt like a thrilling, and sad, desperate moment, fell flat. I felt like by that point everything else was so confusing that now she was hallucinating him. And then when she wasn't (at least I think she wasn't) the information she got from him was something that could have been gained a different way. It wasn't even that shocking, and it should have been a shocking reveal about her target. Instead, I would have liked to see her figure it out on her own by being sneaky. She's had seven years. What has she got to show for that? She got her gun license. Wow. Good planning. And that ending...Not enough was explained. Almost nothing was explained, in fact, just eluded to, which for me wasn't enough. Unfortunately, the story I was interested in was the actual act that caused her to go on a seven year long revenge plan, and then also a story involving an actual revenge plan. I didn't get either of these things. And her hallucinations? Not necessary. In fact, they only served to confuse me more, especially because by that point it's been so long and she's been planning this so long I feel like she'd have gotten past that stage already. Or, at the very least, have been experiencing it the whole time. If we were told she's spent the past seven years hallucinating, which has made it impossible for her to move on, then I would have bought into it. That would also explain why she's acting so manic and insists she has a plan when she obviously does not have one.
All that being said, you're probably wondering why I gave this novella 3 stars. That's why. Because it's a novella. If this was a novel, it would be amazing. Not even, add another 30 pages and I could see this being ten times better than it is. That's because, as stated above, everything in this was rushed. Because of that it was confusing, hard to follow, and hard to connect with. I could feel bad for Angelica if I actually got to see/know, in detail, what happened. I could understand that she's seeking revenge and yet doesn't actually have a plan if I saw how she's been dealing the past 7 years. Like, what ever happened to the father? Or her mother? Or her grandmother? How are all of them dealing? We don't know, and because of that it's hard to care about them during the flashbacks. If Angelica is going to have that many issues in her past, they need to be given to us in smaller doses, not all at once, so that we can connect with her. If this was a longer work, that would be possible. It would also then make describing the many rooms (the layers of hell from Dante's inferno) less of a hindrance on the reader and more of an eye catcher. As it is, because it's so much being packed into so few pages it's way too hard to follow and the descriptions are boring, confusing, and makes the rest of the story drag. So, basically, I gave 3 stars because of the idea behind this, and the potential I think this story has. As this is part of a new series that's coming out, I hope that the next book will be better explained, and contain either less meaningless description or more meaningful pages. I would still read the next installment because of how much potential I can see in this story.
May 25, 2017
I am quite fascinated with the works of Zoe Kalo, having become a huge fan after starting with Daughter of the Sun and most recently finishing Chameleon. Everything she has written, I have found to be highly enjoyable and was honestly disappointed to see them end. I was excited to read this novella, though I don't enjoy novellas that much because I want a deeper, more in depth, longer story and hate that novellas end so quickly. And this one was the same - only 68 pages, but a great 68 pages that I devoured quickly. I am disappointed to see that there are no more books available from this author yet, since I have now read everything she has published.
Though this was a short read, it was one that I was drawn in to emotionally and mentally. I was impressed with the depth and detail from a novella, where Kalo provided a lot more than you would think necessary for a quick read. And to masterfully weave the details from Dante and the world of music in to it, absolutely mesmerized me. I come from a music background, so was fascinated with this addition to the story. I can say Kalo has a talent for writing and drawing from so many sources for inspiration, weaving them masterfully in to the story with creativity and an artistic touch.
The story jumps from past to present a lot, which can be a little confusing at times. But it wasn't done in a way that left me unable to follow the story. I actually enjoyed the back and forth. I thought it helped create tension and build the story up and up until it reached the conclusion. I loved the tense, dark feeling of this book, and at times I almost skimmed the pages as I tried to find out what would happen next. Such a good story!
Definitely an interesting read and one I highly recommend. If you are a fan of Zoe Kalo, this is a must read, though very short and quick.
Though this was a short read, it was one that I was drawn in to emotionally and mentally. I was impressed with the depth and detail from a novella, where Kalo provided a lot more than you would think necessary for a quick read. And to masterfully weave the details from Dante and the world of music in to it, absolutely mesmerized me. I come from a music background, so was fascinated with this addition to the story. I can say Kalo has a talent for writing and drawing from so many sources for inspiration, weaving them masterfully in to the story with creativity and an artistic touch.
The story jumps from past to present a lot, which can be a little confusing at times. But it wasn't done in a way that left me unable to follow the story. I actually enjoyed the back and forth. I thought it helped create tension and build the story up and up until it reached the conclusion. I loved the tense, dark feeling of this book, and at times I almost skimmed the pages as I tried to find out what would happen next. Such a good story!
Definitely an interesting read and one I highly recommend. If you are a fan of Zoe Kalo, this is a must read, though very short and quick.
October 7, 2016
First of all a huge thanks to the author and her team for sharing the copy of the book with me and giving me an opportunity to read the author’s latest work
I had read author’s previous work and that book had wowed me for its simplicity and lucid narration but come to this book and I was completely surprised with the narration and language of the book because it was completely different from the author’s previous work
The book uses a very different language style and quality and something that was completely opposite to the author’s previous works in fact the book in itself is quite different. The book uses a poetic and adorned form of language and travels through very intricate style of explaining and describing things. The narration focuses on describing emotions much more than anything and that plays for both good and bad part of the book.
The buildup is too much for the book that one gets tired of trying to figure out what the story aims at and at the end it sort of disappoints as to not being able to match the buildup it created for nearly more than half of the book but on the other hand, if you love a very unique and artistic narration and something on a much couture style then this book is apt
The book is like a creative, melancholic stage drama where everything is portrayed in its larger than life version .
For one the book clearly needs an acquired taste. I did take my time to get used to the language because it is not your usual read In general aspect the book offered a very unique read in every aspect but when it comes to core theme I was sort of disappointed with the kind of end the book gave, in spite of such large buildup.
Since it’s a short novella I would say it barely takes your time and gives you a very unique experience.
I had read author’s previous work and that book had wowed me for its simplicity and lucid narration but come to this book and I was completely surprised with the narration and language of the book because it was completely different from the author’s previous work
The book uses a very different language style and quality and something that was completely opposite to the author’s previous works in fact the book in itself is quite different. The book uses a poetic and adorned form of language and travels through very intricate style of explaining and describing things. The narration focuses on describing emotions much more than anything and that plays for both good and bad part of the book.
The buildup is too much for the book that one gets tired of trying to figure out what the story aims at and at the end it sort of disappoints as to not being able to match the buildup it created for nearly more than half of the book but on the other hand, if you love a very unique and artistic narration and something on a much couture style then this book is apt
The book is like a creative, melancholic stage drama where everything is portrayed in its larger than life version .
For one the book clearly needs an acquired taste. I did take my time to get used to the language because it is not your usual read In general aspect the book offered a very unique read in every aspect but when it comes to core theme I was sort of disappointed with the kind of end the book gave, in spite of such large buildup.
Since it’s a short novella I would say it barely takes your time and gives you a very unique experience.
March 10, 2019
Mysterious story.
This book was a quick read. It was very mysterious right to the end. I was never really sure what was going to happen. I am still not really sure what the story was about or the point of it.
This book was a quick read. It was very mysterious right to the end. I was never really sure what was going to happen. I am still not really sure what the story was about or the point of it.
October 2, 2016
Two Graves, by Zoe Kalo, is a short story in the psychological suspense “Retribution” series that centres on revenge and a famous work of literature; in this case Dante’s Divine Comedy.
After reading Daughter of the Sun, the first in the Cult of the Cat series, and enjoying it I was looking forward to reading the new psychological thriller novella, Two Graves, but was left disappointed. This is a completely different style than the Cult of the Cat.
The premise of the story is that Angelica, a 23 year old music student, is looking for revenge after a very tragic event that occurred 7 years previously (I don’t want to give all the story away). She has plotted revenge and after playing a concert at a billionaire’s house it is time to kill her target. This leads her on a trip around a very bizarre house, based on Dante.
The book is approx. 70 pages long and flicks between 7 years in the past to the present and at times is very hard to follow, it feels like something has been missed out (almost like it was written as a longer story and had lots cut out).
The story follows Angelica’s misery and pain, and her wanting revenge. The house represents her descent through 7 years of hell she has suffered.
Overall, as I have already mentioned it was hard to follow in places (I would go back a few pages in places to see if I had missed something). There are large parts that are interesting but I do think this is a story that could have been a bit longer to fully convey why Angelica wanted revenge.
The first half of the story was too slow without anything really happening, while the second part got much more interesting with her wanderings through a very bizarre house. This is a short story that you will either love first time or it will be something you forget soon after reading, sadly it just wasn’t for me.
After reading Daughter of the Sun, the first in the Cult of the Cat series, and enjoying it I was looking forward to reading the new psychological thriller novella, Two Graves, but was left disappointed. This is a completely different style than the Cult of the Cat.
The premise of the story is that Angelica, a 23 year old music student, is looking for revenge after a very tragic event that occurred 7 years previously (I don’t want to give all the story away). She has plotted revenge and after playing a concert at a billionaire’s house it is time to kill her target. This leads her on a trip around a very bizarre house, based on Dante.
The book is approx. 70 pages long and flicks between 7 years in the past to the present and at times is very hard to follow, it feels like something has been missed out (almost like it was written as a longer story and had lots cut out).
The story follows Angelica’s misery and pain, and her wanting revenge. The house represents her descent through 7 years of hell she has suffered.
Overall, as I have already mentioned it was hard to follow in places (I would go back a few pages in places to see if I had missed something). There are large parts that are interesting but I do think this is a story that could have been a bit longer to fully convey why Angelica wanted revenge.
The first half of the story was too slow without anything really happening, while the second part got much more interesting with her wanderings through a very bizarre house. This is a short story that you will either love first time or it will be something you forget soon after reading, sadly it just wasn’t for me.
October 7, 2016
Two Graves This book is different, to say the least. To say the best, it is page turning. Written in two separate time frames, present and 7 years previous, it tells the reader the story of a young woman, who has suffered tremendous loss and is out for revenge. She lives with her mother and her son, Shaun. I got the feeling that she really didn't get along that well with her mother and that sets up part of the story.
Angelica suffered a traumatic event and we really don't find out what it is until the ending. The tale takes place in the present in one evening, an audition for Angelica as she is a violinist. In the past we learn about the reason for the revenge she seeks. To tell you how she accomplishes this revenge would be to give away too much. Suffice it to say that this is one of those stories, even though it is only 70 pages that definitely has the reader thinking if Angelica can and will go through what she started out to do and get the retribution she seeks.
I enjoyed this story a lot and highly recommend this author.
I received a copy of this book for review purposes and I did this review voluntarily.
Angelica suffered a traumatic event and we really don't find out what it is until the ending. The tale takes place in the present in one evening, an audition for Angelica as she is a violinist. In the past we learn about the reason for the revenge she seeks. To tell you how she accomplishes this revenge would be to give away too much. Suffice it to say that this is one of those stories, even though it is only 70 pages that definitely has the reader thinking if Angelica can and will go through what she started out to do and get the retribution she seeks.
I enjoyed this story a lot and highly recommend this author.
I received a copy of this book for review purposes and I did this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2016
The summary of the book was very interesting and that's why I decided to give it a read. Unfortunately, I didn't really enjoy this book very much. The writing style was more of a historic/classic literature style, yet it took place in modern day - this just seemed a bit out of place to me. I'm a classical musician and an intelligent individual, yet the overly descriptive writing about the music and her life left me bored to the point where I had to make myself finish the book. I was just so confused for a majority of the book and kept saying, "Okay, what's the point?" If you can make it to the 80% mark, you'll finally get to the good part. I can't really say too much without giving away the reason behind Angelica seeking revenge, but it's heartbreaking and I can certainly understand why she was after retribution. I would have enjoyed learning a little more about what happened between present day and 7 years ago. Where are the other characters now? How did their life change? It's just my personal opinion, but a little more depth to the story would have been preferable over the elaborate descriptions about music and the rooms in the house.
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