Sunday, June 19, 2011

Die for Me by Amy Plum

So I found this book through one of the websites that I frequent regularly. They have a "If you like...then you'll love..." section on books (the website itself is dedicated to a book so it makes sense). Most of the books they've suggested have been iffy as to whether they would mesh with a picky reader (that would be me for those wondering) after reading the synopsis given by the suggester. I'll also look up the book on my favorite book sellers website (who will often let you preview the first chapter or two - very nice!) to see if I can garner more info/insight on the book from there before I make a decision on whether I'd like to read it or not. Some of them just aren't my cup of tea whether it be subject matter or the style of writing. Then there are some that just don't catch my attention fast enough to keep me going (this part I am trying to work on and I have, in the past, forced myself to finish a book that has gotten me bored beyond possibility).

Then you have the ones that you just can't put down. Amy Plum's Die for Me is one of those books. The first book in a trilogy series catches you from the beginning, or at least it did for me. It delves you into a world that's set outside of the states, and in your mind, allows you to visit one of the most romantic cities in the world - Paris. The heroine is a strongly written character with some angst following a tragedy. It's about character who, while she knows what she wants just can't seem get outside of her own head at times and about her learning how to do that again. It's also about love, faith, trust, and starting over when you've been so powerfully kicked in the teeth.

There is some supernatural to this book as well but it's not the usual vampires, werewolves, and demons that have been floating around the book world as of late. It's not overpowering to the story but it does drive the angst and is definitively woven into the story line.

All of the characters have been left room for growth and while it may seem like it's just another supernatural drama book, similar to others that are on the market, it's not in my opinion. While I won't lie and say that readers won't see similarities (whether from the author's descriptions of people or things or from the readers own reading past/imagination) it's got it's own story to tell and will stand on it's own merits. Kate and Vincent are miles away from that other well known literary couple. ;)

Bottom line, Die for Me is a wonderful book and you should pick it up today! :)

Random Fact: A picture of Gandalf the Grey (from The Lord of the Rings) can be seen in the collection of great wizards in Professor Dumbledore’s study in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

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