Review: I...can't believe I liked it so much
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 30, 2013
Unlike most of the reviewers here, I was NOT an H.P. Mallory fan. I couldn't STAND either of her big selling series, Dulcie O'Neil or Jolie Wilkins. Awful, awful, awful sappy, weak, self-centered, whiny heroines, including one who feels unattractive and fat in part because she "could stand to lose 5 pounds." 5 whole pounds, really? That's the difference between ugly and attractive? This, combined with awkward story telling and preposterous dialogue, just did not work for me. (However, it DID work for many other people, who loved both series.)So then...I don't know why...but I took a chance on BETTER OFF DEAD. This heroine, Lily, while not being a kick-ass ninja, is EVERY woman. Her point of view is believable and her reactions and reasoning ring true. She is in a situation she doesn't understand and she tries to cope. She is often afraid and tries her best to overcome it! I LOVE THAT!The premise is not totally unique, having seen or read the general idea in other books and movies, but the heroine's specific experience within the story is original. She is young, smart, likeable and earnest, but not a sweet little pollyanna.Others have complained about a secondary character, Bill, who is pretty rude. I have ZERO problem with that character; he is what he is, and despite his obnoxiousness, he's a decent person at heart. And I found him *funny*! I've also read negative comments about the main hero, Tallis. As you learn about his backstory, you can understand why he isn't the open, easy-going sort. I found him intriguing and flawed, but noble. Why she likes him? While not exactly charming, he doesn't leave her to deal with a situation she is woefully unprepared for. He makes her a sword, then makes it extra protective. He puts himself in danger. And, okay, he's muscle-y and wears a kilt. What's not to like?I was very pleased with the story and the references to Dante's "Inferno," and I hope the author fufills her back-page promise of "to be continued" with this story and characters.4 stars = very good, I quite liked it.