Darker Still

by Leanna Renee Hieber

[Angie]

Darker Still was weird, but in a good way! It's the diary of one Miss Natalie Stewart. The actual diary was a gift for her upon leaving the asylum for deaf, mute, and blind girls. Natalie hasn't been able to speak for the past 13 years after her mother died, but she has lots to say. When a painting reported to be haunted is on its way to New York, she must see it! She's intrigued by the handsome man depicted, and then he summons her! Lord Denbury has been cursed and is trapped in the painting, while a demon wears his face and roams the city.

I absolutely loved the premise of Darker Still. It's this historical, paranormal mystery and lots of fun. Natalie falling in insta-love with the painting was a bit odd and random, but other than that, I totally believed her enthusiasm in wanting to help him. I mean, who wouldn't at least be curious if a painting was trying to get your attention? Then there's the fact that Natalie is able to speak to Lord Denbury when she enters the painting. She's been trying to find her voice for years, but now she believes it's possible. I also wasn't totally behind her being healed by the power of love, but since there was no physical reason for her being unable to speak, I think it was just a matter of time and will.

Because Darker Still is mostly a mystery, I don't want to say too much and give anything away. I really liked Natalie as a character. She's an oddball and she owns it! Her muteness does keep her from fitting into society, but she doesn't want to, so there's no loss there. Although she does wish people weren't so ignorant as to assume she must also be deaf and talk about her like she's not there! In the end, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and left me excited to see what comes next for Natalie and Jonathon.

Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.