What do you think?
Rate this book
Scarlett Wakefield #3
Kiss in the Dark
With Dan McAndrews's murder finally behind her, Scarlett has high hopes for a fresh start at Wakefield Hall Collegiate, the elite English boarding school her grandmother runs. Unfortunately, those hopes are dashed when her nemesis, the infamous Plum Saybourne, is transferred to the school. Plum wastes no time turning Scarlett’s impressionable classmates against her.
Scarlett has dealt with Plum’s nasty schemes before, and she can handle her archenemy very nicely, thank you—until Plum sets her sights on Scarlett’s best friend, Taylor, and new boyfriend, Jase. Then Scarlett is more than willing to fight for what’s rightfully hers.
Things only get worse after Scarlett becomes entangled in a mysterious death on campus. Scarlett is compelled to investigate because she wants to protect someone close to her. She never imagines that she’ll uncover secrets related to her parents’ fatal accident so many years ago. . . .
Scarlett has dealt with Plum’s nasty schemes before, and she can handle her archenemy very nicely, thank you—until Plum sets her sights on Scarlett’s best friend, Taylor, and new boyfriend, Jase. Then Scarlett is more than willing to fight for what’s rightfully hers.
Things only get worse after Scarlett becomes entangled in a mysterious death on campus. Scarlett is compelled to investigate because she wants to protect someone close to her. She never imagines that she’ll uncover secrets related to her parents’ fatal accident so many years ago. . . .
248 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
About the author
Lauren Henderson
58 books404 followersBorn in London in 1966, Lauren Henderson read English at university and then worked as a journalist for - among other publications - the New Statesman, Marxism Today, the Observer and Lime Lizard, a much-mourned indie music magazine. Lauren now divides her time between Italy and London and, when not wine-tasting, writes full-time.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
February 27, 2015
With Kiss in the Dark, we return to Wakefield Hall and the life of Scarlett Wakefield. In this third installment of the Kiss/Scarlett Wakefield series, we see the progressing relationship between Scarlett and Jase, the continued antagonization by one Plum Saybourne, the continued relationship between Scarlett and Taylor, and...another murder?
Jase's father is one of the strongest opponents of Scarlett and Jase's budding relationship. That all changes, however, when on one of their daily runs Taylor and Scarlett stumble upon Mr. Barnes's dead body. The police are called in, Scarlett and Taylor are asked a few questions, and Jase is nowhere to be found. Upon his return, he goes to Scarlett and the two share an intimate, tender moment in which he completely lets down his guard. Until Plum ruins it.
A few days later, Jase's mother shows up before leaving in a rush upon discovering Scarlett's identity. Not long after, an inquest is held because of the suspicious manner of Mr. Barnes's death, and the very same day, Jase is arrested for murder. Scarlett does all she can to help, even going to the extent of confronting Jase's grandmother, who Scarlett figures out is the real killer.
During this period of days, Scarlett learns some shocking secrets about her parents' deaths and her best friend Taylor. When she and Taylor look into old newspapers, she sees her mother wearing the very necklace that Jase gave to her as a gift, thinking it had been his mother's pendant. She notices that Jase's mother owns a van that's original color was white: just like the one that killed her parents. So she comes to the conclusion that Mr. Barnes is the man who killed her parents. A conclusion that is later confirmed by Jase as his grandmother finally told him the truth the night before. With regards to Taylor, she learns that Taylor's parents and older brother are actually American spies and not what she had previously thought (archeologists on a dig in Turkey and college student).
In the end, Jase decides he needs some time away from Wakefield Hall and leaves after promising to return for Scarlett at some indefinite time. As a result, Scarlett resolves to help Taylor find some dirt on Plum and to have Taylor help her find out the truth of her parents' deaths.
I'll be honest and say that this book started out a little slow for me, but once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. I've been waiting for this book since I finished Kisses and Lies and I was very excited to finally get it. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed with this book.
I continue to love Scarlett Wakefield and I sincerely hope that there will be more books in this series. I was glad that she was finally able to stand up to Plum, whether it concerned Taylor, Jase, herself, or the situation with Dan McAndrew. I feel that the girl is incredibly strong and kinda wish I had a friend like her.
Jase...Oh, Jase. How I love you so. I've loved Jase from the beginning and I still do, even if there were some parts that absolutely made me want to strangle him. I was quite upset that he left at the end and I need more books to this series to see where his and Scarlett's relationship can lead.
I have to admit that I was really hoping that Callum McAndrew would show up in this book. You know, an impromptu visit to Scarlett at Wakefield Hall. I really loved him in Kisses and Lies and hope he will make an appearance in any future books.
Now, if you haven't noticed by now, I really, really, really want more books in this series. To the point that, after I finish writing this review, I will be checking all the Lauren Henderson resources I can find to figure out if there will be anymore! Damn it, I need more Scarlett, Jase, and Taylor! And Callum!
Jase's father is one of the strongest opponents of Scarlett and Jase's budding relationship. That all changes, however, when on one of their daily runs Taylor and Scarlett stumble upon Mr. Barnes's dead body. The police are called in, Scarlett and Taylor are asked a few questions, and Jase is nowhere to be found. Upon his return, he goes to Scarlett and the two share an intimate, tender moment in which he completely lets down his guard. Until Plum ruins it.
A few days later, Jase's mother shows up before leaving in a rush upon discovering Scarlett's identity. Not long after, an inquest is held because of the suspicious manner of Mr. Barnes's death, and the very same day, Jase is arrested for murder. Scarlett does all she can to help, even going to the extent of confronting Jase's grandmother, who Scarlett figures out is the real killer.
During this period of days, Scarlett learns some shocking secrets about her parents' deaths and her best friend Taylor. When she and Taylor look into old newspapers, she sees her mother wearing the very necklace that Jase gave to her as a gift, thinking it had been his mother's pendant. She notices that Jase's mother owns a van that's original color was white: just like the one that killed her parents. So she comes to the conclusion that Mr. Barnes is the man who killed her parents. A conclusion that is later confirmed by Jase as his grandmother finally told him the truth the night before. With regards to Taylor, she learns that Taylor's parents and older brother are actually American spies and not what she had previously thought (archeologists on a dig in Turkey and college student).
In the end, Jase decides he needs some time away from Wakefield Hall and leaves after promising to return for Scarlett at some indefinite time. As a result, Scarlett resolves to help Taylor find some dirt on Plum and to have Taylor help her find out the truth of her parents' deaths.
I'll be honest and say that this book started out a little slow for me, but once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. I've been waiting for this book since I finished Kisses and Lies and I was very excited to finally get it. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed with this book.
I continue to love Scarlett Wakefield and I sincerely hope that there will be more books in this series. I was glad that she was finally able to stand up to Plum, whether it concerned Taylor, Jase, herself, or the situation with Dan McAndrew. I feel that the girl is incredibly strong and kinda wish I had a friend like her.
Jase...Oh, Jase. How I love you so. I've loved Jase from the beginning and I still do, even if there were some parts that absolutely made me want to strangle him. I was quite upset that he left at the end and I need more books to this series to see where his and Scarlett's relationship can lead.
I have to admit that I was really hoping that Callum McAndrew would show up in this book. You know, an impromptu visit to Scarlett at Wakefield Hall. I really loved him in Kisses and Lies and hope he will make an appearance in any future books.
Now, if you haven't noticed by now, I really, really, really want more books in this series. To the point that, after I finish writing this review, I will be checking all the Lauren Henderson resources I can find to figure out if there will be anymore! Damn it, I need more Scarlett, Jase, and Taylor! And Callum!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2017
Want to see more bookish things from me? Check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfer...
Although still not my favourite books, I must say that they are getting better as they progress. The only major issue I had with this one was one or two homophobic/raicist remarks - which were cleared up at the end of the book. I found Scarlett to be a lot less whiny and annoying in this book and she is starting to grow on me. She does still make me roll my eyes 99% of the time though.
Although still not my favourite books, I must say that they are getting better as they progress. The only major issue I had with this one was one or two homophobic/raicist remarks - which were cleared up at the end of the book. I found Scarlett to be a lot less whiny and annoying in this book and she is starting to grow on me. She does still make me roll my eyes 99% of the time though.
March 29, 2010
I was hoping I wouldn't regret my decision to read this book, especially how I felt about book one and two. I would have been happy leaving this series after Kisses and Lies. But, seeing as this is an advanced copy, I thought "why not give it a try." Phew...I'm glad I did read it, because it was pretty good and it helped not to leave such a bitter taste in my memories of the first two books.
Anyhow, I stand by my previous review, Kiss Me, Kill Me and Kisses and Lies would have made a better complete book and a much better start to this series. There is definitely going to be a fourth book and I'm actually looking forward to it.
There was a lot less snobby-mean-girl stuff in this one. Also, in the other books, it seemed Lauren Henderson was trying to hard in her writing to sound trendy and it didn't come across very well. The writing was a lot better in this one.
The only down side to Kiss in the Dark was the plot. It followed way too closely to the storyline in the first two books (my meaning is, I know that plots in a series are continuous, and there was some in this book, it's just that the murder-mystery situation from the first two books was kind of repeated in this second book. Nothing new, just similar). We did get some new plot twist that will set us up for book four, but everything else seemed the same and it made it a little ho-hum to me.
Anyhow, I stand by my previous review, Kiss Me, Kill Me and Kisses and Lies would have made a better complete book and a much better start to this series. There is definitely going to be a fourth book and I'm actually looking forward to it.
There was a lot less snobby-mean-girl stuff in this one. Also, in the other books, it seemed Lauren Henderson was trying to hard in her writing to sound trendy and it didn't come across very well. The writing was a lot better in this one.
The only down side to Kiss in the Dark was the plot. It followed way too closely to the storyline in the first two books (my meaning is, I know that plots in a series are continuous, and there was some in this book, it's just that the murder-mystery situation from the first two books was kind of repeated in this second book. Nothing new, just similar). We did get some new plot twist that will set us up for book four, but everything else seemed the same and it made it a little ho-hum to me.
March 14, 2022
3.5 Stars...
This one was surprisingly good in comparison to the first 2 books. In this book the mystery was interesting and actually took center stage (and out of the 3, is the best). The only thing I really didn't understand was the whole Taylor secret thing. I don't know what that had to do with anything, but maybe it will tie together in book 4.
Honestly, I really don't have too much to say about this except, I liked the mystery much better, the pacing was good, and the characters were much more interesting. I can't believe it, but I am looking forward to book 4.
Content: no sex, but a couple of very heated kissing scenes
Language: very little.
This one was surprisingly good in comparison to the first 2 books. In this book the mystery was interesting and actually took center stage (and out of the 3, is the best). The only thing I really didn't understand was the whole Taylor secret thing. I don't know what that had to do with anything, but maybe it will tie together in book 4.
Honestly, I really don't have too much to say about this except, I liked the mystery much better, the pacing was good, and the characters were much more interesting. I can't believe it, but I am looking forward to book 4.
Content: no sex, but a couple of very heated kissing scenes
Language: very little.
October 16, 2011
I read the first three books in this series while I was sick this week and I've loved it. Maybe I just love teen detectives (Nancy Drew and Veronica Mars!), but Scarlett Wakefield's investigations are pretty great and her best friend/sidekick Taylor is as cool as any Bess or Wallace.
Although the second book is my favorite so far (half of it takes place in a sixteenth-century Scottish castle and all the characters wear aran sweaters!), I was really caught up in Kiss in the Dark. It sets up the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of Scarlett's parents and the fraught relationship between Scarlett's family and her boyfriend's family. Also, Taylor reveals a pretty rad secret about her family. It ends on a big cliffhanger, so I'm dying to get the last book!
Although the second book is my favorite so far (half of it takes place in a sixteenth-century Scottish castle and all the characters wear aran sweaters!), I was really caught up in Kiss in the Dark. It sets up the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of Scarlett's parents and the fraught relationship between Scarlett's family and her boyfriend's family. Also, Taylor reveals a pretty rad secret about her family. It ends on a big cliffhanger, so I'm dying to get the last book!
October 18, 2011
This novel, while following the mystery/romantic-tendency of the series, solved its own mystery in the storyline, but unlike the others, it left with a second mystery far more outstanding and intriguing trying to hook the reader into a presumable fourth book. Whereas the previous books were spell-binding in their own right, this one didn't mesmerize quite as thoroughly and while still an easy read, was not nearly as captivating.
February 11, 2021
2,5*
Scarlett really needs to get her priorities straight.
Mijn recensie kan je hier lezen: https://secretsofthetales.wordpress.com/2021/02/11/dubbelrecensie-kus-in-de-nacht-doodskus-lauren-henderson-scarlett-wakefield-3-4/
Scarlett really needs to get her priorities straight.
Mijn recensie kan je hier lezen: https://secretsofthetales.wordpress.com/2021/02/11/dubbelrecensie-kus-in-de-nacht-doodskus-lauren-henderson-scarlett-wakefield-3-4/
May 9, 2019
La verdad es que esta saga y su protagonista no logran convencerme hasta ahora. Siento que las cosas importantes que pasan como que el papá de Jase haya matado a los padres de Scarlett o que los padres de Taylor sean algo así como espías, se pierden con insignificancias al momento de describir una situación. La forma de escribir de la autora es rara, se enfoca en cosas que no importan y deja de lado lo vital. Me gustan los libros de misterio, y este debería entrar en esa categoría, y levantar mi interés por los giros y cosas que pasan que no esperas, pero no lo hace. No me gustó mucho.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2018
More mystery. Looking forward to reading book 4.
August 11, 2021
Don't let the title sway you. It is a pretty good mystery.
February 14, 2022
Not as good as the 2nd but I'm excited to finish the story and hope all the loose ends get tied up nicely!
July 14, 2010
I'm so glad that I had a couple of uninterrupted hours in which to read this book, because I would not have been happy to have to put it down. Kiss in the Dark is a fun, quick read with a perfect blend of boarding school drama and murder mystery. Oh, and Britishness. It gains lots of awesome-points just for the sheer Britishness of the characters and the story.
Kiss in the Dark is the third book in a series (the first two are Kiss Me Kill Me and Kisses and Lies), but it's not really essential to have read the first two to understand and enjoy this one. I still definitely recommend reading them in order as it provides a lot of the characters' backgrounds and explains events that are referenced in this one (plus, who wouldn't enjoy two more books of Scarlett?), but at the start of this book, the major events of the first two books are firmly in the past. Scarlett thinks she's starting over now that she's solved the murder of Dan McAndrew, except now Plum Saybourne, her ultra-popular nemesis, has transferred to her school.
Within a few weeks, Plum has the other girls at Wakefield Hall practically worshiping her, and Scarlett and her best friend Taylor are left to deal with it on their own. The verbal battles and the power struggles between Scarlett and Plum are certainly entertaining to read about. Scarlett's a strong character who knows how to stand up for herself, so the conflict escalates rapidly. In addition to all of the popularity struggles, Plum's out to destroy Scarlett's relationship with the gardener's son, Jase. But it turns out Plum isn't the only one who's not pleased with that relationship: Jase's father and grandmother and Scarlett's aunt have all indicated that the two should not be together. Scarlett's already trying to solve that mystery when she and Taylor stumble onto a dead body.
I felt like the mystery was really well-done - both mysterious situations, the murder and the objections to Scarlett's relationship with Jase, are handled realistically and thoroughly. My only complaint was that in places it felt like Scarlett was a way better detective than she should have been; it was a tiny bit inconsistent. There's enough of a conclusion to make Kiss in the Dark tell a complete story all on its own, but with enough questions left unanswered that I'll definitely read book four when it comes out.
The characters are great, too; I feel like the character development in this book is a lot stronger than in the first two, which is nice. I especially love that we get to see a new side to Taylor's character, as she's probably my favorite. My problem with the first two was that the plot seemed a little unrealistic in places, and that wasn't such a problem in this book either. Kiss in the Dark is probably my favorite in the series so far, and I definitely recommend the entire series to any teenage girl looking for a fun, quick read. Especially if you like Britishness. (They kick bums instead of butts! It's awesome.)
Kiss in the Dark is the third book in a series (the first two are Kiss Me Kill Me and Kisses and Lies), but it's not really essential to have read the first two to understand and enjoy this one. I still definitely recommend reading them in order as it provides a lot of the characters' backgrounds and explains events that are referenced in this one (plus, who wouldn't enjoy two more books of Scarlett?), but at the start of this book, the major events of the first two books are firmly in the past. Scarlett thinks she's starting over now that she's solved the murder of Dan McAndrew, except now Plum Saybourne, her ultra-popular nemesis, has transferred to her school.
Within a few weeks, Plum has the other girls at Wakefield Hall practically worshiping her, and Scarlett and her best friend Taylor are left to deal with it on their own. The verbal battles and the power struggles between Scarlett and Plum are certainly entertaining to read about. Scarlett's a strong character who knows how to stand up for herself, so the conflict escalates rapidly. In addition to all of the popularity struggles, Plum's out to destroy Scarlett's relationship with the gardener's son, Jase. But it turns out Plum isn't the only one who's not pleased with that relationship: Jase's father and grandmother and Scarlett's aunt have all indicated that the two should not be together. Scarlett's already trying to solve that mystery when she and Taylor stumble onto a dead body.
I felt like the mystery was really well-done - both mysterious situations, the murder and the objections to Scarlett's relationship with Jase, are handled realistically and thoroughly. My only complaint was that in places it felt like Scarlett was a way better detective than she should have been; it was a tiny bit inconsistent. There's enough of a conclusion to make Kiss in the Dark tell a complete story all on its own, but with enough questions left unanswered that I'll definitely read book four when it comes out.
The characters are great, too; I feel like the character development in this book is a lot stronger than in the first two, which is nice. I especially love that we get to see a new side to Taylor's character, as she's probably my favorite. My problem with the first two was that the plot seemed a little unrealistic in places, and that wasn't such a problem in this book either. Kiss in the Dark is probably my favorite in the series so far, and I definitely recommend the entire series to any teenage girl looking for a fun, quick read. Especially if you like Britishness. (They kick bums instead of butts! It's awesome.)
November 12, 2012
Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com
KISS IN THE DARK is the third novel in the series featuring Scarlett Wakefield.
Scarlett is finally able to get on with life at Wakefield. The worst part of her routine is dealing with her nemesis, Plum, on a daily basis, and sneaking around to meet up with her boyfriend, Jason. Jason's dad and Scarlett's guardian, Aunt Gwen, have forbidden them to see each other. But life for Scarlett is never easy, and soon more excitement lands in her lap.
Taylor and Scarlett are out for their daily run around the grounds when they notice that the gate encircling the lake is open. Scarlett knows that the lake is off limits, so the two of them wander over to investigate. What they find changes everything. There, lying on the ground, dead, is Mr. Barnes, Jason's dad.
While Jason and his grandmother are telling detectives events of the previous evening, Scarlett is determined to prove it couldn't possibly be Jason's fault. Yes, she overheard the heated argument between Jason, his grandmother, and his father, but Jason is kind and gentle. He couldn't possibly have killed his dad.
As Scarlett searches for the truth, more secrets come to the surface. There is history between Scarlett's parents and Jason's parents. As she delves deeper, the secrets become darker. The ending of KISS IN THE DARK leaves the reader on the edge of their seat, awaiting a future installment in the Scarlett Wakefield drama.
Unlike the PRETTY LITTLE LIARS series that keeps going with the same theme, this series keeps readers enthralled with new mysteries around each corner for Scarlett and her friends. Ms. Henderson weaves a captivating story that is at once both believable and highly addicting. Scarlett is likeable and easily relatable for readers.
One doesn't have to have read the prior books in the series to enjoy KISS IN THE DARK. Yes, it makes the background easier to follow, but because this story contains its own mystery, it can stand on its own.
KISS IN THE DARK is the third novel in the series featuring Scarlett Wakefield.
Scarlett is finally able to get on with life at Wakefield. The worst part of her routine is dealing with her nemesis, Plum, on a daily basis, and sneaking around to meet up with her boyfriend, Jason. Jason's dad and Scarlett's guardian, Aunt Gwen, have forbidden them to see each other. But life for Scarlett is never easy, and soon more excitement lands in her lap.
Taylor and Scarlett are out for their daily run around the grounds when they notice that the gate encircling the lake is open. Scarlett knows that the lake is off limits, so the two of them wander over to investigate. What they find changes everything. There, lying on the ground, dead, is Mr. Barnes, Jason's dad.
While Jason and his grandmother are telling detectives events of the previous evening, Scarlett is determined to prove it couldn't possibly be Jason's fault. Yes, she overheard the heated argument between Jason, his grandmother, and his father, but Jason is kind and gentle. He couldn't possibly have killed his dad.
As Scarlett searches for the truth, more secrets come to the surface. There is history between Scarlett's parents and Jason's parents. As she delves deeper, the secrets become darker. The ending of KISS IN THE DARK leaves the reader on the edge of their seat, awaiting a future installment in the Scarlett Wakefield drama.
Unlike the PRETTY LITTLE LIARS series that keeps going with the same theme, this series keeps readers enthralled with new mysteries around each corner for Scarlett and her friends. Ms. Henderson weaves a captivating story that is at once both believable and highly addicting. Scarlett is likeable and easily relatable for readers.
One doesn't have to have read the prior books in the series to enjoy KISS IN THE DARK. Yes, it makes the background easier to follow, but because this story contains its own mystery, it can stand on its own.
May 11, 2011
After the strange death of her ex-boyfriend, Scarlett Wakefield changes schools. At Wakefield Hall Collegiate, things are different. Teacher's are more strict, and girls are expected to act in the most appropriate manner. When Scarlett's enemy, Plum Saybourne transfers to the school, things make a turn for the worst. Dealing with Plum isn't easy, as she continues to hassle Scarlett, along with her best friend Taylor and boyfriend Jase. When a mysterious death shocks everyone at the school, secrets start to uncover and accusations are made. To protect the ones she loves the most, it's up to Scarlett to solve the pieces of the puzzle, no matter how hard the truth may seem.
It's always hard to admit a book didn't reach my standards when it comes to plot, characters, and writing. I like to think that every writer has something great to offer--something unique. Lauren Henderson might have that unique quality, but unfortunately, I didn't see it in Kiss in the Dark.
With so many twists and turns in this story, it was hard to know left from right. After one secret was exposed, another, completely different, would follow. I felt like things were just randomly thrown in to make the story longer. There were times when I wanted to stop reading because it seemed like certain phrases and sentences were said over and over again.
The characters in this story seemed two-dimensional. They didn't seem real, and the development was a slow process. Everything that happened to Scarlett, past and present, was confusing at times. I felt like there was way too much going on with her. I understand that Plum was the 'mean girl' of the story, but she was so far from what I picture a 'mean girl' to be. Her character didn't really do anything for the story to make it better or worse.
Overall, I think this story could have been so much more intriguing if only more time was spent on plot and organizing the structure. I was hoping to enjoy this one, but instead it just dragged along. I hate disliking books, I really do, but I just couldn't get into this one.
Rating: 2.8
It's always hard to admit a book didn't reach my standards when it comes to plot, characters, and writing. I like to think that every writer has something great to offer--something unique. Lauren Henderson might have that unique quality, but unfortunately, I didn't see it in Kiss in the Dark.
With so many twists and turns in this story, it was hard to know left from right. After one secret was exposed, another, completely different, would follow. I felt like things were just randomly thrown in to make the story longer. There were times when I wanted to stop reading because it seemed like certain phrases and sentences were said over and over again.
The characters in this story seemed two-dimensional. They didn't seem real, and the development was a slow process. Everything that happened to Scarlett, past and present, was confusing at times. I felt like there was way too much going on with her. I understand that Plum was the 'mean girl' of the story, but she was so far from what I picture a 'mean girl' to be. Her character didn't really do anything for the story to make it better or worse.
Overall, I think this story could have been so much more intriguing if only more time was spent on plot and organizing the structure. I was hoping to enjoy this one, but instead it just dragged along. I hate disliking books, I really do, but I just couldn't get into this one.
Rating: 2.8
July 13, 2010
Hoping to leave the past that is Dan McAndrews behind her, Scarlett Wakefield's hopes are shattered when nemesis Plum Saybourne transfers to Wakefield Hall Collegiate. Soon, Plum is creating mini-Plums and threatening to destroy the friendship she has with Taylor and the relationship with Jase. Scarlett thought the sleuthing and deaths were in her past, but when someone on campus dies, and their death is related to someone close to her, Scarlett has to find the truth, or else.
Perhaps my favorite Scarlett book to date. This went by surprisingly fast. There's a lot of conflict involving Plum with her mean antics and remarks, but Scarlett was equally sarcastic and bitting with her replies. Yes, we have the fun and not brooding Scarlett back!
I thought her relationship with Jase to be terribly boring despite Jase being such a great person. Jase was no doubt sweet, but they spent the majority of their time kissing and riding on motorcycles when they could have been solving mysteries. Yes, I really wanted a mystery! But I understood how Henderson had to build up on their relationship so that the murder could happen. And I'm glad the case was solved before it dragged on to the next book. I really hate it when authors do that. The ending left some things resolved, but set up a great storyline for the next book, which I'll definitely be on the lookout for. And is it terribly mean of me to be thrilled that Jase is out of the picture (as of now)?
Perhaps my favorite Scarlett book to date. This went by surprisingly fast. There's a lot of conflict involving Plum with her mean antics and remarks, but Scarlett was equally sarcastic and bitting with her replies. Yes, we have the fun and not brooding Scarlett back!
I thought her relationship with Jase to be terribly boring despite Jase being such a great person. Jase was no doubt sweet, but they spent the majority of their time kissing and riding on motorcycles when they could have been solving mysteries. Yes, I really wanted a mystery! But I understood how Henderson had to build up on their relationship so that the murder could happen. And I'm glad the case was solved before it dragged on to the next book. I really hate it when authors do that. The ending left some things resolved, but set up a great storyline for the next book, which I'll definitely be on the lookout for. And is it terribly mean of me to be thrilled that Jase is out of the picture (as of now)?
May 5, 2010
As the third book in a series, this is not the place to enter the adventures of Scarlett Wakefield's life.
The cover copy from the first two books explains that Scarlett's life takes an abrupt turn for the worse when her first crush died immediately after they kissed. Scarlett solves the mystery of his death in book two, and by the time of book three, her life has settled into a new version of normal. She's a student at her grandmother's boarding school (her grandmother is the sort of woman that requires Scarlett to call her "Lady Wakefield" during term). She's got a friend and confidante in Taylor, the sporty American. And she's madly in love with the gardner's son. They're dating secretly because Jase's father hates Scarlett for some unknown reason, and they fear the Wakefield family's response as well. When their secret finally comes out, things fall apart around them, and it's up to Scarlett to put the pieces back together.
This was a very good entry in the Kiss series. Scarlett started the series as a very shallow young woman, but she constantly learns from the mistakes she makes. She's learning to read people better, and she's learned what it means to be a loyal friend. I look forward to reading more and more adventures in Scarlett's life, and I'm excited to read about the person she's becoming.
The cover copy from the first two books explains that Scarlett's life takes an abrupt turn for the worse when her first crush died immediately after they kissed. Scarlett solves the mystery of his death in book two, and by the time of book three, her life has settled into a new version of normal. She's a student at her grandmother's boarding school (her grandmother is the sort of woman that requires Scarlett to call her "Lady Wakefield" during term). She's got a friend and confidante in Taylor, the sporty American. And she's madly in love with the gardner's son. They're dating secretly because Jase's father hates Scarlett for some unknown reason, and they fear the Wakefield family's response as well. When their secret finally comes out, things fall apart around them, and it's up to Scarlett to put the pieces back together.
This was a very good entry in the Kiss series. Scarlett started the series as a very shallow young woman, but she constantly learns from the mistakes she makes. She's learning to read people better, and she's learned what it means to be a loyal friend. I look forward to reading more and more adventures in Scarlett's life, and I'm excited to read about the person she's becoming.
November 9, 2010
This is the third book in the Scarlett Wakefield series, and I loved every bit of it. Kiss in the Dark is full of mystery, three different mysteries are presented and I was very curious about all three of them. Lauren Henderson is a terrific author who captures mysteries very very well.
Scarlett and Taylor are at it again, somehow mystery always finds them and of course this time like the other time, they can’t help themselves and just have to try and solve the mystery of the mysterious death.
As the big mystery in the first two books was solved and done and dusted I was really surprised to see another book in the series, but I’m glad that there was another book because it was really awesome.
The book is a really fast read and doesn’t take very long to get through. It’s the kind of mystery that you just have to keep reading to find out what happened, so I whizzed through it to find out the whodunit. My one complaint is that it seemed really rushed with what happened, but I’m pretty sure there’s still more to it than meets the eye.
I was happy with the ending because it means more mystery in the next book which I’m really looking forward to.
If you love mysteries, then I suggest the Scarlett Wakefield series by Lauren Henderson. All three books in the series are really good.
Scarlett and Taylor are at it again, somehow mystery always finds them and of course this time like the other time, they can’t help themselves and just have to try and solve the mystery of the mysterious death.
As the big mystery in the first two books was solved and done and dusted I was really surprised to see another book in the series, but I’m glad that there was another book because it was really awesome.
The book is a really fast read and doesn’t take very long to get through. It’s the kind of mystery that you just have to keep reading to find out what happened, so I whizzed through it to find out the whodunit. My one complaint is that it seemed really rushed with what happened, but I’m pretty sure there’s still more to it than meets the eye.
I was happy with the ending because it means more mystery in the next book which I’m really looking forward to.
If you love mysteries, then I suggest the Scarlett Wakefield series by Lauren Henderson. All three books in the series are really good.
December 15, 2010
Excerpt from my review below. You can read my full length and original review here: http://thebookpixie.blogspot.com/2010...
"Kiss in the Dark is the engrossing third installment in Lauren Henderson's witty and suspenseful mystery series for young adults.................
The Scarlett Wakefield series has seemed to get more suspenseful and less predictable with each book. Kiss in the Dark was truly the most edge-of-your-seat and twisted book in this series thus far. It also had a darker and more serious edge, compared to the previous two, that I found very refreshing. The involvement of old family secrets really made this book even more intriguing for me. I've continued to be in love with the Wakefield setting and I found the writing was just as well done as usual..............
All in all, Kiss in the Dark may very well be my favorite book in this series so far. If you don't try these books I'll have to send the coppers to arrest you. :P Seriously though, for anyone out there looking for a great YA mystery series, this one is a must. I can definitely see myself reading them again and I can't wait for the release of Kiss of Death!"
"Kiss in the Dark is the engrossing third installment in Lauren Henderson's witty and suspenseful mystery series for young adults.................
The Scarlett Wakefield series has seemed to get more suspenseful and less predictable with each book. Kiss in the Dark was truly the most edge-of-your-seat and twisted book in this series thus far. It also had a darker and more serious edge, compared to the previous two, that I found very refreshing. The involvement of old family secrets really made this book even more intriguing for me. I've continued to be in love with the Wakefield setting and I found the writing was just as well done as usual..............
All in all, Kiss in the Dark may very well be my favorite book in this series so far. If you don't try these books I'll have to send the coppers to arrest you. :P Seriously though, for anyone out there looking for a great YA mystery series, this one is a must. I can definitely see myself reading them again and I can't wait for the release of Kiss of Death!"
June 22, 2010
Liked it, but not as much as the previous two. It was just such a quick read! It was nice to hear from Scarlett again, though at times I wanted to smack her. Towards the beginning of the book did I really need to hear 50 times how good looking Jase is? We already know he's gorgeous and awesome and lovely, etc, etc. It was bordering on Twilight territory, it scared me so much. Thankfully that toned down a little bit as the mystery aspect of the book began. Unfortunately, this mystery was a bit too easy to figure out. I'm the worst person EVER at figuring out whodunnits, but I guessed this one close to the beginning. I thought the bit about Taylor and her family was a little weird. I mean... they're spies? Really? That just seemed a bit over the top. I feel like I complain a lot, but I am hard on the books I read. If you're a Scarlett fan I would definitely recommend picking it up, but don't expect it to be as intriguing as the first two (especially the first). Nevertheless, I enjoy Lauren Henderson's writing style for the most part.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2011
I am a huge fan of this series and have devoured each of the three books faster than I probably have read any other series (with the exception of the Maze Runner & Hunger Games series).
Scarlett Wakefield's voice is such a refreshing blast of cool-headedness with just enough angst to make things interesting. She is strong with a vulnerability that she shares with the reader in such quirky ways that she is completely endearing.
I enjoy Ms. Henderson's timing with every nuance of the book. She knows exactly when to reveal little tidbits of the plot and information into the backgrounds and characters of each person in the book. I especially enjoy the way in which she slowly has unfurled just how wealthy and important Scarlett truly is throughout the books without giving Scarlett an unnecessarily large head. She's no Plum at all!
I think this book, more than the first two, had me cheering and laughing out loud as Scarlett took on her nemesis. I especially loved the "Pillow or Scissors" encounter! Hurry, Ms. Henderson, and give us a fourth book.
Scarlett Wakefield's voice is such a refreshing blast of cool-headedness with just enough angst to make things interesting. She is strong with a vulnerability that she shares with the reader in such quirky ways that she is completely endearing.
I enjoy Ms. Henderson's timing with every nuance of the book. She knows exactly when to reveal little tidbits of the plot and information into the backgrounds and characters of each person in the book. I especially enjoy the way in which she slowly has unfurled just how wealthy and important Scarlett truly is throughout the books without giving Scarlett an unnecessarily large head. She's no Plum at all!
I think this book, more than the first two, had me cheering and laughing out loud as Scarlett took on her nemesis. I especially loved the "Pillow or Scissors" encounter! Hurry, Ms. Henderson, and give us a fourth book.
April 14, 2014
Un buon terzo libro di una quadrilogia. E' stato bello ritrovare la protagonista Scarlett e le sue avventure, la storia è carina e scritta bene come le precedenti, con un linguaggio molto scorrevole e colloquiale, è stata una lettura piacevole che non ha mancato di colpi di scena e misteri da risolvere. Il mio unico rammarico, ed è per questo che non posso dare al libro 4 stelline come si meriterebbe, è che solo una parte del mistero che riguarda questo libro viene risolto con la fine del libro, mentre vi è ancora una parte che viene rimandata ad un ulteriore libro, che purtroppo qui in Italia non è stato pubblicato (perché Fanucci per un UNICO libro hai lasciato in sospeso la serie? Avrei potuto capire se si fosse trattato di una serie infinita di 20 libri ma qui ne mancava solo UNO, eddai... mi sento davvero presa in giro!) e quindi... che dire, questa lettura sul finale ha avuto un po' il sapore di un qualcosa di incompleto e triste. Se non fosse stato per questo particolare sarei stata molto entusiasta e sarei corsa a leggere il seguito.
September 6, 2010
This is the third book in the Scarlett Wakefield series. I came across this series when searching for available ebooks from my library before going on a trip. Kiss Me, Kill Me, the first book in the series, just happened to be available, and I'm so glad that I got it! I am a sucker for anything British, so the fact that these books are set in England was a total win for me right from the get go.
I will admit - this book was a bit boring for me compared to the first two. It didn't seem to have as much drama or suspense and almost seemed to drag a bit at some points. I loved Scarlett in the first two books, but she kind of irritated me during this book. The author portrayed her as a very clingy, insecure girl, which is not how she came across before.
I won’t spoil the ending, but the last 1/3 of the book was by far the best and definitely left me wanting more. I truly hope a fourth book is on its way because it has the potential to be fantastic!
I will admit - this book was a bit boring for me compared to the first two. It didn't seem to have as much drama or suspense and almost seemed to drag a bit at some points. I loved Scarlett in the first two books, but she kind of irritated me during this book. The author portrayed her as a very clingy, insecure girl, which is not how she came across before.
I won’t spoil the ending, but the last 1/3 of the book was by far the best and definitely left me wanting more. I truly hope a fourth book is on its way because it has the potential to be fantastic!
April 25, 2014
More!!! I want more! I'm turning impatient now. Scarlett continues her life in the ancestral property of Wakefield Hall. and life couldn't be better. With Dan's death behind her, and Jase to look forward to, even Plum can't keep her spirits down. But Taylor, the one best friend she has, is keeping secrets. So is Jase. And Aunt Gwen. Come to think of it, who Isn't? A murder on campus and its back to spying. And it all goes back to her parents death all those years ago. But it was an accident. Or not.
This book has suspense, drama, humor, secrets, love, bullying, hate, and everything else in between. It kept me guessing throughout the book, and it has me guessing now.Why did Mr. Barnes kill Scarlett's parents? What will happen between Jase and Scarlett? All these questions have been going on in my mind, and I can't wait to read the last book.
This book has suspense, drama, humor, secrets, love, bullying, hate, and everything else in between. It kept me guessing throughout the book, and it has me guessing now.Why did Mr. Barnes kill Scarlett's parents? What will happen between Jase and Scarlett? All these questions have been going on in my mind, and I can't wait to read the last book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2010
So Scarlett is FINALLY over Dan McAndrews death. What does she do now? Try am live life at wakefield collegiate. But then a mysterious death on campus occurs. Or is it mysterious? Scarlett and her friend Taylor figure it out. And discover more than just behind the death. And with plum at thr school now, things can get tough. And what is going on with Plum and Taylor?
It's a really good book. Again, a little romance, lots of suspense and mystery :D just like the other Scarlett Wakefield. And I read this
Book in a day, same day I picked it up from the library. It's really good! Great book, especially for mysteries :) really felt like I was there with all the characters :) living like Scarlett.
:) great
Book
It's a really good book. Again, a little romance, lots of suspense and mystery :D just like the other Scarlett Wakefield. And I read this
Book in a day, same day I picked it up from the library. It's really good! Great book, especially for mysteries :) really felt like I was there with all the characters :) living like Scarlett.
:) great
Book
September 8, 2010
Although I'd say that this book is better than the first two in the Scarlett Wakefield series - it stands alone, which is more than I can say for the other two - it felt like the literary equivalent of a cream puff: light, tasty, and altogether insubstantial.
I like some of the characters, and I'd like to know more about Taylor (assuming that the author writes more Scarlett Wakefield books, I'll read them), but I was rather disappointed by the cliched curveballs and by Scarlett's glaring immaturity (immaturity is fine in characters... if it's an opportunity for them to grow. I'm still not sure that Scarlett's going to grow up anytime soon).
But then - I never thought this was going to be a life-changing book. I'll take what I can get.
I like some of the characters, and I'd like to know more about Taylor (assuming that the author writes more Scarlett Wakefield books, I'll read them), but I was rather disappointed by the cliched curveballs and by Scarlett's glaring immaturity (immaturity is fine in characters... if it's an opportunity for them to grow. I'm still not sure that Scarlett's going to grow up anytime soon).
But then - I never thought this was going to be a life-changing book. I'll take what I can get.
March 18, 2013
Things were getting more complicated and fast in this book. When I reached to the point where Jase was accused for his father's death, I felt like skipping a few chapters ahead to see what would happen to him. Even though I found Scarlett to be really annoying as she kept sneaking off to see Jase, showing up at his house when he wasn't replying her texts, I hate to admit that I might be doing what she did as well.
Despite the fact that the book kept me going and I couldn't put it down for some chapters, the ending didn't get me filled with excitements for the next book. I might keep reading, but I felt like the story was just extended for more than necessary.
I have to say that Book 2 is my favorite in this series so far.
Despite the fact that the book kept me going and I couldn't put it down for some chapters, the ending didn't get me filled with excitements for the next book. I might keep reading, but I felt like the story was just extended for more than necessary.
I have to say that Book 2 is my favorite in this series so far.
September 15, 2010
I don't know...Scarlett is totally ridiculous, and Plum is so stereotypically obnoxious, and every adult is mean and/or crazy, but I still really enjoy this series. In this book we've moved on from Scarlett's original boy kissing troubles to Scarlett's new boy kissing troubles. Dating Jase has opened up a whole huge can of worms involving both their families. And what's up with Taylor (not what it looks like)? These books are just fun--teen mysteries are rare these days, and I like that this one does not contain too much angst. Or anything supernatural. And Scarlett and Taylor's friendship/investigation partnership really works for me. I'm looking forward to the next one.
January 20, 2016
Having finally cleared up the mystery surrounding her fatal first kiss, Scarlett the sixteen-year-old gymnast-detective thought she would have the chance to act like a normal teen. Instead, she is hammered with a succession of woes, including a vicious snob, Capulet vs. Montague-style romantic barriers, and yet another corpse. All this gives her much to be angsty and emotional about, to the point that at times it seems she will never suck it up and get around to solving the latest mystery. Also, it would be nice if any of these novels had a sense of completion. The boarding school backstabbing is fun, though.
July 26, 2011
I'm not sure about this series, not much romance, I wish there were more romance, a little less arguing with snobby girls,I know it's part of the suspense which you don't seam to get to the good stuff till the last few chapters, I started the series and I keep reading hoping it will get a little more intense. Scarlett left this time, trying to find out what really happened to her parents, and what will become of her and her new boyfriend now that they found out his family was involved. Set up for a really good sequel.
May 31, 2011
This book will for sure keep you guessing. There's always something new to be discovered and it's has humor. The author does a good job keeping all the deaths just seem like bad luck instead of too much death.
It is a good murder mystery for young adults to enjoy. The young heronie is always off on some adventure trying to prove the right people innocent.
The setting is in a English Boarding School for young ladies run by Scarlett's grandmother. It is a cute story and a must read for teens who love romance and mystery.
It is a good murder mystery for young adults to enjoy. The young heronie is always off on some adventure trying to prove the right people innocent.
The setting is in a English Boarding School for young ladies run by Scarlett's grandmother. It is a cute story and a must read for teens who love romance and mystery.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews