Book Review #31 – Line of Descent by James Derry

Hello guys!

Today’s review is a little different. I’m going to talk about a book that I was directly contacted about by the author. Let’s talk about Line of Descent, by James Derry.

This wasn’t the first time I got contacted by an author. In the previous times, I always declined. When I started this blog, I expected to solely review the books I usually read, having no obligations to anyone but myself. I read every email and check out every book but it never before felt right for me to accept the book. Even so, I have my email ready for any contact. The other day, I got an email from James Derry himself. After reading the synopsis of this book, I knew I wanted to read it. The cover and the blurb were fascinating. Besides, this genre would be a new one for me: I never before read a paranormal book. Let me just clarify that all the remarks below are my true and most honest opinion.

This book tells the story of Elise, who always had a strange gift: she can sense every single person’s true emotions and aura. Above that, her family is the main piece of a weird “cult”. When her mother dies, she invites her friend Mallory to the funeral service, in her house, and things go crazy.

It got me some time to get used to the writer’s style for some reason. I’m not sure how to put it but he writes in a rushed yet slow way that got me really confused at times. Some parts I had to re-read a couple of times. I’m sure that this comes from me and not the author’s style. Maybe my mind was too used to read graphic novels (I read about four before starting Line of Descent) and since the styles are so opposite, I might not have taken it in the best way.

The story was very interesting. The supernatural stuff was well grounded and explained, even though it didn’t made any sense sometimes. But anyway, what cults make sense right?! I didn’t particularly liked or cared for any of the characters. They are all so winy and self-absorved. This wasn’t a bad thing though. It felt that, at most times, it was the point. It was hard to choose sides, the cult or the outside world. Moral questions were constantly put to question and it was definitely the most interesting thing in the book.

I didn’t hate the book but I didn’t like it very much either. I guess it just wasn’t really my thing. I think there’s a very specific audience for this book and I’m not sure I’m in it. Even though, I think it’s a good initiation to a genre not that much popular. It was definitely a good and fun read. I can’t go into much detail without giving plot point away. All more info about the book and the author can be found here.

I hoped you enjoyed this review and that it made you curious to know more about this title!

Cat.