Review: Not Done Yet!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 13, 2014
How much did I love this book? Let me count the ways...The way he kept me on my toes and turned me into a conspiracy theorist.Truths turned into lies, and even the lies ran deeper than I could imagine. There is a depth in his writing that you don't find often. From the multi-faceted characters to the environment to everything in between. No stone is left unturned, and even though you're left with more questions than answers, you keep coming back for more. CSM's writing is so fulfilling that even when you are hanging by a thread you enjoy the delicious torture.The vulnerability and strength of Andrea.Only sixteen years old and thrust into a family she doesn't know, this young woman has continued to amaze me. Seemingly cast aside by those who should love her unconditionally, Andrea still remains cautiously optimistic. She doesn't view the world through rose colored glasses and possesses a realism not usually afforded others her age.The quiet stoicism of Carrie.Though still reeling from the death of her husband, her world doesn't stop moving. Even when chaos surrounds them, she commands the room. The scenes in which her inner emotions are exposed are raw and gritty and you won't leave without shedding more than a few tears.The reflections of Julia.I loved that, more than anyone else, she seemed to come to the realization that not everything was as it seemed. Memories that once seemed so black and white turned gray, and Julia was left questioning everything and everyone. Empathy began to creep in and I feel like forgiveness is around the corner.The protectiveness of Dylan.Here's a character that life has dumped all over, yet he keeps fighting. Without a second thought to his well-being, he thinks in the moment and takes charge. What I love about CSM's writing is strength he develops in his characters. They become living, breathing beings that don't merely exist between the pages. His stories come to life, and the multi-dimensional movie plays out in real time, keeping you on the edge of your seat.The rawness of Adelina.Like an onion, we are rapidly peeling her layers. Here is a character that throughout ALL CSM's books, has been somewhat of a villain. Her inner musings are what drives this series, and you will find yourself bouncing between loving and hating her. Honestly, even two books in, I am still not sure what side of the fence I stand on. I certainly know and understand more, but there are still plenty of truths to be revealed.The insightful nature of Sarah.Surprisingly the voice of reason, she brought a much needed humor to this book. Her snarky attitude and call-it-like-I-see-it persona were refreshing. Even when people would lie to her, she could see right through them. Introduced in the last book, she really shines in this one. Her special connection with Dylan was one of my favorite parts!The realism of the situation.CSM doesn't sugarcoat anything for the readers, nor does he ease you into it. From the beginning of this series we were quite literally knocked on our tails with supposed truths and revelations. Everything we thought to be true wasn't and we had to learn the characters all over again. The authenticity that CSM brings to his books is that of someone who has not only done his research, but lived and breathed it to an extent. The background and locations of the story not only add to the experience, but they are almost a character themselves.We are two-thirds of the way through this adventure and I can't even begin to imagine where he'll take us next. I know one thing for certain though; wild horses couldn't keep me away!