Kimber Leigh Reads

*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*

When Stars Die is an eerie story, at least as dark as it's title. The plot is quite original and definitely intriguing. I imagine this world with a hazy fog around all the time, perhaps a direct result of the heaviness I felt while reading. While this is not what I normally like to read, I couldn't help but be drawn into the world created by Amber Skye Forbes.

Amelia decides that the only way to save her brother's soul is to become a nun, enduring the rigorous trials all nuns must face. She is a strong protagonist, not one to back down from what she wants. My heart ached for Amelia throughout the entire novel. The poor girl just couldn't seem to get a break. Amelia is very dedicated to those she loves, and will do anything in her power to help them.

The story begins with Amelia and her best friend, Colette, preparing to undergo the trials to become nuns. The opening chapters are so dark, creating an almost horror-like atmosphere. I kept expecting one of the nuns to declare their allegiance to Satan. The descriptions are vivid, drawing the reader into each chilling scene. There were times when I was so drawn in, I forgot everything around me (quite the feat in a noisy dentist's waiting room). While the pacing started out a bit slow, it picked up about halfway through, making the novel difficult to put down.

I recommend When Stars Die to those 17+ that enjoy a dark paranormal story. The only reason I don't include younger readers in the recommendation is the graphic violence (both physical and psychological) and brief sexual situations. This novel will leave the reader thinking about both life and the after.