The Dark Divine by Bree Despain

December 2009 by Egmont USA
Hardcover, 372 pages
Purchased 

Book Synopsis  (Taken from GoodReads)

Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared—the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in blood. But she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night really held. And when Daniel returns three years later, Grace can no longer deny her attraction to him, despite promising Jude she’ll stay away. As Grace gets closer to Daniel, her actions stir the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind Jude and Daniel's dark secret . . . and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it—her soul.

Review

Luckily for me I didn't read any reviews on this book that spoiled the big secret, I curled up opened The Dark Divine and didn't stop until every word was devoured.......With an amazing cast of characters and elegant writing I found myself just like Grace to Daniel unable to resist the delicious story in front of me.

Three years ago, Daniel disappeared. Leaving behind secrets, questions and a broken brother. Nobody will talk about it and Grace has never known why or what happened. Then like a winter breeze that rips through a fall day unexpected- Daniel reenters Grace’s life. Feelings Grace thought were childhood whimsy’s come back full force, only much stronger. Grace without the support of her family wants to help Daniel, she can’t resist the irresistible pull inside her to be with him…………

Daniel is immediately a mystery to Grace and to the reader, he teeters on the edge of -is he or isn’t he- the bad guy through most of the duration of the book, making for a very a fun mystery. Although Daniel is cloaked in dark, I couldn’t help liking him- bad guy or not his character defiantly has appeal.

Grace to the reader is not a mystery- she is a strong character who thinks things through before she makes a decision. Grace’s maturity is almost surprising, not the simple YA girl- ready to toss everything aside for a boy she hardly knows- wise for her age but not enough that a teen reading this can’t relate to her.

The secondary characters fit perfectly in this story. Jude as the over protective brother, Grace’s best friend (who really becomes a ninny when she starts dating Jude) and Pete who plays the part of boy interested in Grace to bring some drama. As the truth is slowly revealed to Grace concerning all the individuals in her life and as she gets closer to Daniel, more complications rise. Finally Grace is forced down to a choice….her family….or first love….

So many times in YA or any type of fiction the Christians are labeled the Harry Potter book burning people. I loved that Despain used a family who were religious and casted them in a positive light. I also loved that although the book is centered on two young main characters, the sense of responsible adults and a strong family unit are showcased- because there is such a thing as parents who love their kids and are looking out for them.

Rating

The Dark Divine is filled with mystery, romance, action and thrilling twists that will keep you reading way into the night. No language, sexuality is very mild and frightening elements surround mystery and suspense. Suitable for teens and adults alike.

5/5 - YA, Paranormal Romance