For Darkness Shows the Stars (Stars, #1)

by Diana Peterfreund

Fans of Divergent will love Diana Peterfreund’s take on Jane Austen’s Persuasion set in a post-apocalyptic world.
 
In the dystopian future of For Darkness Shows the Stars, a genetic experiment has devastated humanity. In the aftermath, a new class system placed anti-technology Luddites in absolute power over vast estates—and any survivors living there.
 
Elliot North is a dutiful Luddite and a dutiful daughter who runs her father’s estate. When the boy she loved, Kai, a servant, asked her to run away with him four years ago, she refused, although it broke her heart.
 
Now Kai is back. And while Elliot longs for a second chance with her first love, she knows it could mean betraying everything she’s been raised to believe is right.
 
For Darkness Shows the Stars is a breathtaking YA romance about opening your mind to the future and your heart to the one person you know can break it.

• ISBN10: 0062114379
• ISBN13: 9780062114372
• Publish Date: 12 June 2012
• Publish Status: Active
• Publish Country: US
• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
• Imprint: Collins
• Format: eBook
• Pages: 448
• Language: English

Reviews

[pagingserenity]

think this book may have cured my reading slump. I really loved Elliot and reading from her point of view but I just wish there was a little more romance. Still, I regret waiting this long to read this.

[Ashley]

Nose Graze — Young Adult book reviews

2.5 Stars

For Darkness Shows the Stars is the kind of book that I don't think is bad, but I think it requires the right person and the right tastes in order to enjoy it. Unfortunately for me, I don't think I'm the right person.

This book has that "classic literature" feel to it. Maybe not everyone will agree with me on this point, but I feel like classic literature (including Jane Austen works) have a certain style. The writing feels more "proper" and the stories/characters are a little more distanced. The emotions aren't as intense, and I personally never get quite as invested in the characters. Obviously not everyone will respond this way to classic literature, but I've picked on a couple little details and feelings I always get when I read it, and they're very present in For Darkness Shows the Stars. It's not very intense, exciting, or romantic. It is filled with some good overall ideas, morals, and things to think about, but ultimately it's not the most exciting or engaging.

For Darkness Shows the Stars starts out by throwing us into the deep end. I have no idea who's who, or what's what, or what all these crazy words are (CORs, Posts, Luddites, Reduceds, etc.). It was honestly a bit overwhelming. But as the book goes on, things do get easier to absorb!

However, there are long periods in For Darkness Shows the Stars where not much happens. We learn new information, we get a good sense of what the world is like, but it doesn't feel like the plot is really progressing. There are very few big, key events, and a lot of descriptions and reminiscing... which isn't for me. Most of the book is spent on Elliot reminiscing about how Kai used to be and comparing that to how he is now, and wondering if he hates her or if he likes this other girl Olivia... It's just a lot of thinking, obsessing, and wondering—but not a lot of happening.

The romance was a big problem for me in For Darkness Shows the Stars. At the beginning of the book, we get the sense that Elliot chose her family's estate over Kai several years earlier, and now they're not on good terms. As such, when they meet again Kai is kind of upset with her, so he acts like a huge asshole. Kai puts Elliot down PUBLICLY and deliberately insults her on multiple occasions. And honestly, even at the end, I never felt like he was able to justify it. I don't feel like she hurt him so much that she deserved all those insults. I might have been okay with it if, at the end, I realized Elliot had really made a huge mistake and Kai was justified in what he did... but I never felt that way. So that made me have a bad opinion of the romance overall—from start to finish.

Again, I don't think For Darkness Shows the Stars was a bad book, I just know it wasn't for me. There were parts of it that were good to think about (like at what point does technology go too far? Where do we draw the line?), but ultimately this writing style isn't one that I can connect with. It's one that I've seen a lot in older works like Pride & Prejudice and no matter how good the story itself is, I just can't deal with it; it can't hold my interest. Too many descriptions, too distancing, and too slow. Combine that with a romance that I wasn't crazy about, and I get a 'meh' experience overall. Unfortunately, I know this is a book that I'm going to forget very quickly.

[anne]

Would rather give this 3 1/2 stars as it has some tricky turns. Good light read and sentimental value for Jane Austen fans.

[Kelsenator]

Originally posted on my blog Kelsey's Cluttered bookshelf, go there to see the whole review!

(4.5)

I really loved this author’s other series about Killer Unicorns, so I had no idea what to expect when diving into this book. I was definitely wowed that she could write something so different, and I really liked it!

The division between events that happened in the past and the present was so well done. I usually dread past scenes in books sometimes but this was just perfect for the story. Between the chapters are letters that younger Elliot and Kai sent each other. Not only did they explain things wonderfully about what had happened and how the Reduced came to be, but it really showed how the two characters bonded and were so close.

I was confused at first with the different class systems and what exactly the Reduced were, but it doesn’t take long to learn all of this. The letters of the past say the humans at the time were very involved with technology, to the point of changing themselves with enhancements and experiments to their bodies. Another group thought this was wrong and that they were changing what God gave them. The Lost (enhancers) ended up with Reduced babies (who can’t talk much and can only do basic commands), and started wars that destroyed just about everything. The Luddites went into hiding for years, and then rebuilt everything and took care of the Reduced who work on their land for a living. The Reduced eventually produced children that were normal (CORs or Posts), although they are still low in the class compared to Luddites.

Posts have been known to leave their lands, and some fail while others prosper. Kai left the land and Elliot behind, but when he does returns with the Fleet as a rich mechanic, there’s so much anger, tension and some angst between the two. Elliot still has feelings for him and she has no idea what/if he feels anything for her anymore. Elliot also has to deal with taking care of the land her father rules and the Reduced and Posts that live there.

On top of that, there are conflicting issues that she has over staying true to her Luddite ways or whether it’s okay to deviate from them and develop and experiments with things like people did in the past. Moving on and changing or staying the same without knowing what’s going to happen is one of the topics that keeps coming up in this book, and I think it was perfect to see Elliot and others struggle with this, as change can be very hard.

The characters had lots of emotion, secrets and hopes for a bright future and I loved reading about them. Elliot and the way she thought and acted was so strong, but she was also caring of others and their well-being.

This book isn’t part of a series but an independant one, which is a nice break from what I usually read. It doesn’t leave you hanging at all and everything is explained too which was a bonus. Highly recommended!

[Amanda]

Original review: http://onabookbender.com/2012/09/19/review-for-darkness-shows-the-stars-by-diana-peterfreund/

Oooooh. This BOOK! For the record, I have not read Persuasion by Jane Austen, which–if I’m correct, and say so if I’m not–this book is a retelling of. I think that is important to note, because I suspect that my views may have been different if I had read it first. I don’t know how they would have been different–better or worse–but different, nonetheless. Anyway. I. LOVED. This. Book.

For Darkness Shows the Stars was one that instantly grabbed me, even though I had intended to read a different book that day–once I started, I couldn’t stop. When I went to bed before finishing it, I rolled around in bed, wondering what would happen. When I woke up in the morning, I was half-afraid to start again, because that’s how much this book pulled at my emotions (in a good way). This book just burrowed its way into my heart, and it was difficult to get it it out. If I had wanted to get it out, I mean. For the record, I didn’t.

Told from Elliot’s perspective and interspersed with letters between Elliot and Kai as children, we come to realize the sacrifices that Elliot has been forced to make in the past four years. And I just flat out adored Elliot. She’s the star (heh) of this book, and she is strong, capable, and caring, which is exactly what I love in a female heroine. And Kai broke my heart. But I get why they had to make the choices they did, and my heart ached for both of them. And that, my friends, is the sign of a good book. I was so wrapped up in their world and struggle that I didn’t want to go anywhere else.

On the world, briefly: I was fascinated by the Luddite/Post/Reduced relationships, and though there is a tiny part of me that would have wanted more explanation, the world was only important in how it acted upon Elliot and Kai. It was, in some ways, just another character in the book. I also appreciate how, though there are religious undertones, there isn’t any preaching–it’s all done for the effect of Elliot and Kai’s relationship. The world in which Elliot and Kai grew up doesn’t want to allow their relationship, and it is clear that its very nature attempts to keep the two apart. But when I finished, I had two simultaneous thoughts. One, I wanted MOAR. And the other I will not share lest it be spoiler-ish. It’s not, really. And it’s kinda related to the first bit. But whatever.

As most of you know, I’m an action junkie. I like books with kick-ass characters, quests, action, ect. But every now and then, there comes along a book that may no exactly fit my normal standards, but I still end up loving it. For Darkness Shows the Stars is one of those books. This book isn't necessarily "dystopian". At it's core it is an epic love story. If you’re looking for an action-packed book, you won’t get it here. Neither will you get a tough and brave character in the physical sense. But there are different types of bravery. There are other ways to fight and show defiance. Strength isn’t always physical. Sometimes, being selfless is the hardest strength of all. Which is why I absolutely adore Elliot.



Elliot isn’t your physical kick-butt girl. She’s not going to go get a sword and destroy evil or anything. No. And because of this, at first I wasn’t sure I loved her. She seemed almost passive, something I abhor in a character. Yet I gave her a chance and I’m glad I did. Elliot is one of the most selfless characters I’ve ever read about.

Although not legally the keeper of the estate, her father’s ignorance and lack of care means she is the one to take care of everything. The only good thing about her life was Kai. We know that she didn’t run away with him, but the “why” is what makes her such a fantastic character. She put the welfare of those under her care above her own happiness. She knew her father’s cruelty and carelessness and couldn’t let her people suffer at his hands. She sometimes seemed passive because if she made her dad angry, he’d take it out on people she cared about. Therefore, she had a quiet strength. She did things without him knowing. She defied him in silence. While it did take her a while to stand up to him and sometimes I just wanted her to go ahead and do it already, I respect her choice.

To be honest, I absolutely hated Kai through the first half of the book. Because we know why Elliot stayed behind, I simply couldn’t understand how he could be so cruel to her when he returned. But don’t despair. Kai definitely redeems himself. He’s got such a good heart, he just first has to get past his hurt.

One element I really enjoyed throughout the book were the letters between Kai and Elliot. They give flashbacks to their relationship when they were young and I think it was just incredibly sweet and adorable. I loved getting the glimpses of their relationship.

And, as with all books, I love that it makes you think. While this book has religious undertones, it’s not “in your face” and it’s general. It’s part of the Luddite way. While prominient in some parts of the book, it doesn’t bother me because you get to see both sides and even a middle ground. Each character believes a bit differently and it’s makes you think about how things can apply to everyday situations.


Although this book is considered "dystopian", it is definitely "dystopian lite". The main purpose of this book is to shows the love story between Elliot and Kai, so don't expect fantastic world-building. I have to say that it did bug me some, I wanted to know more, but I was able to look over it and get to the meat of the story.

Overall:

For Darkness Shows the Stars isn’t an action-packed novel with kick-butt characters. It’s a beautiful love story with characters that are tough in their own ways. While not always my cup-of-tea, I couldn’t help but become entranced.

All the best ♥
Mackenzie @ Oh, For the Love of Books!

[ladygrey]

I've never read Persuasion before but what I learned from this book is that it's harder to read about two people in love, separated in the same room than two people trying to fall in love that can't quite manage to come together. How Elliot managed to walk through this book without tears streaming down her face, I'll never understand. Also, I think there's something sort of beautiful about being emotionally composed and in control but so affected that you can't keep the tears from escaping even as you hold your voice steady. That's how I imagined Elliot in most of these scenes, only she wouldn't cry.

All that being said, the cast of characters in this novel is interesting. The skipping through time was a bit disorienting, but only in the first jump. After that it was an interesting way for Elliot and Kai to unfold as characters even when they were discussing things we already knew. Because we got to see what Elliot eventually realize that Kai always was that man. He hadn't changed, he'd just become who he always wanted to be. The science was a little soft and the cultural structure a little redundant, but it worked for a story that really isn't about those things. They serve their purpose in moving these characters through the playing field of the novel so I don't really have any complaints.

If it wasn't so sad, I'd probably read it again sometime.

[celinenyx]

I would like to preface my review by saying that I am a massive Diana Peterfreund fan. From the moment I read Rampant, her book about killer unicorns (I know right?!) I was hooked. When I found out that she was writing a dystopian version of Jane Austen's Persuasion, I was taken aback. Talk about something different! I got afraid, what if I don't like this book? Will I still be able to call Ms Peterfreund one of my favourite authors? Or will I hang my head in shame and mumble "Yeah well, the new book is just so different..."?

What the hell was I worried about. For Darkness Shows the Stars is AWESOME. First, the cover is beautiful. I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but still, it's a plus. Second, I really like the title. It's a change from the one-word title trend that still has YA land in its grip. It's a very cool title, even though as a Dutch girl I have troubles pronouncing it correctly.

And third, probably the most important one. The story. The STORY, you guys! I flew through For Darkness Shows the Stars in two days. It has everything. A rock-solid foundation in world-building, loveable characters, a super sweet romance, a father you would love to strangle, genetically manipulated ancestors and a devastating war... It has it all!

What I especially appreciated is how there isn't really a villain in For Darkness Shows the Stars. Except for the main character Elliot's father maybe. I could totally strangle him at times. Almost every single character is a shade of grey. Everyone has been made into what they are, more often than not outside of their own fault. Elliot really has to rethink who she is and what she wants to stand for throughout the book.

Elliot is a main character that I love. She is a strong, but humble girl. She chooses the well-being of her subordinates over her own. I admire this trait in her. I'm sick of all the wussy heroines bloating in self-pity. She isn't perfect though. She's always so busy thinking of other people first, that she forgets herself. Throughout the book she learns how to stand up for herself.

Of course, I can't write a review of For Darkness Shows the Stars without talking about the love interest. Kai is, just like this book, awesome. I'm a big sucker for the kind of dark and broody guys, and Kai lived up to it. What could have been a very difficult and painful relationship, Ms Peterfreund made Kai swoonworthy by adding letters. Letters from when Kai and Elliot were friends as kids. They show a softer side of him, but also show the start of what makes him as he is now. Why yes, I know that I'm being mysterious. But I just really don't want to spoil anything for you! All I have to say on the matter is that from the start of the book, I was rooting for Kai and Elliot to have a happy ending, one way or another.

Do you like romance? Read this book. Do you like post-apocalyptic? Read this book. Do you like horses? Read this book. Do you think Elliot is a cool name for a girl? Read this book.

No seriously, read this.