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The Darker Agency #1
Darker Days
A little sin can be deadly...
Jessie Darker goes to high school during the day, but at night she helps with the family investigation business. Cheating husbands and stolen inheritances? They're your girls—but their specialty is a bit darker. Zombie in your garage? Pesky Poltergeist living in your pool? They'll have the problem solved in a magical minute. For a nominal fee, of course...
When gorgeous new client Lukas Scott saunters into the office requesting their help to find a stolen box, it sounds like a simple case—until the truth comes out. The box is full of Sin.
Seven deadly ones, in fact.
They've got five days to recapture the Sins before they're recalled by the box, taking seven hijacked human bodies with them. Easy peasy—except for one thing...
There's a spell that will allow the Sins to remain free, causing chaos forever. When the key ingredient threatens the life of someone she knows, Jessie must make the ultimate choice between love and family—or lose everything.
Jessie Darker goes to high school during the day, but at night she helps with the family investigation business. Cheating husbands and stolen inheritances? They're your girls—but their specialty is a bit darker. Zombie in your garage? Pesky Poltergeist living in your pool? They'll have the problem solved in a magical minute. For a nominal fee, of course...
When gorgeous new client Lukas Scott saunters into the office requesting their help to find a stolen box, it sounds like a simple case—until the truth comes out. The box is full of Sin.
Seven deadly ones, in fact.
They've got five days to recapture the Sins before they're recalled by the box, taking seven hijacked human bodies with them. Easy peasy—except for one thing...
There's a spell that will allow the Sins to remain free, causing chaos forever. When the key ingredient threatens the life of someone she knows, Jessie must make the ultimate choice between love and family—or lose everything.
332 pages
First published August 19, 2013
About the author
Jus Accardo
22 books1,491 followersJUS ACCARDO spent her childhood reading and learning to cook. Determined to follow in her grandfather’s footsteps as a chef, she applied and was accepted to the Culinary Institute of America. But at the last minute, she realized her true path lay with fiction, not food.
Jus is the bestselling author of the popular Denazen series from Entangled publishing, as well as the Darker Agency series, and the New Adult series, The Eternal Balance. A native New Yorker, she lives in the middle of nowhere with her husband, three dogs, and sometimes guard bear, Oswald.
Jus is the bestselling author of the popular Denazen series from Entangled publishing, as well as the Darker Agency series, and the New Adult series, The Eternal Balance. A native New Yorker, she lives in the middle of nowhere with her husband, three dogs, and sometimes guard bear, Oswald.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
September 1, 2013
“Holy house of hogs getting blasted by the blue birdie brigade...”What the actual fuck?
This was just a terrible book. The background and information given regarding a crucial part of the plot was very poorly explained, and ended up confusing me more than anything. The plot was straightforward enough, but my enjoyment of it was bogged down by poorly written characters, of every imaginable trope in the book. It was peppered with insta-love, slut-shaming, and girl-hating...which is even more atrocious, given that the main character and the main narrator is female. The writing is fine, but in order to endure the dialogue, you would need to take a couple of Vicodins...it was that painful to read.
The plot is...recycled. Jessie and her Klaire
Simple enough, let's see where this went wrong:
Jessie Dark: I love my snarky, smart-assed heroines. I love Georgina Kincaid, I love Charley Davidson. I have a feeling that the author of this book was trying to manufacture a character of a similar sort here, a loveable, wisecracking teenaged version of the two.
It didn't work.
Jessie Darker is but a shadow of the type of characters that I adore. She tries to sound witty, it doesn't work; it translates as a teenager just trying too hard to be a smarty-pants, know-it-all, bitchy, rebellious teenager who ends up being more annoying than amusing overall. The book tries too hard to make her into a likeable, humorous character, it failed completely. There is a fine, fine, fine line between making a character strong, amusing, but annoying: Jessie leans towards the latter. I could not stand her. She is a thoroughly dislikeable character: she is bitchy, she contradictory, she is judgmental, she slut-shames, she falls into insta-love. She is the embodiment of every character flaw I hate within the YA genre.
Jessie fucks up---a lot. During her cases, she more often than not causes more trouble than she solves. She breaks her mother's rules, and flaunts the fact. In her eyes, she never does anything wrong; Jessie can always find a justification for her actions, no matter how wrong she is. Yet she is judgmental of others, like her sainted mother, for doing the same. Her mother is a complete idiot, too, some of Klaire's decisions, like having her volatile daughter babysit Wrath---had me seriously questioning her intelligence. It looks like the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
The dialogue: The writing is adequate, but the characters' speech was excruciatingly awkward. The teenagers' speech, for example, is far from natural. It is so stilted. It is a 75 year old retiree's version of how teenagers speak. For example:
“Looks like you’re not the only new kid in town. Did you get a load of the new chick?” Garrett let out a sharp whistle. “Hawt! Girl’s got a pair that would drive a priest crazy.”Who the fuck says "Hawt?"
“Ya know, like sucking face and having gropefests?”I don't blame you, Lukas. I can't understand it either.
He scowled. “Why is it so hard for you to speak English?”
“That is English. Not my fault you can’t understand it.”
The insta-love: Inexplicable. Jessie falls for Lukas' dark, mysterious good looks the instant she sets eyes on him (see introductory quote). Naturally, Lukas fits every trope in the book. He is of an unknown age...yet naturally remains a fresh-looking 18. For someone who's been alive that long, and for someone who is a fucking Deadly Sin (Wrath), Lukas is really, really stupid and naive.
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, Lukas, but the world’s changed since your time. People suck. They steal, they lie, and they kill each other in horrible ways for no good reason. Some are just bad. Badder than the demons.”OH MY GOD. YOU ARE A DEADLY SIN. ACT LIKE IT. Why the fuck is Lukas so surprised that people are bad. HE IS BAD. Could I emphasize it again? HE IS A DEADLY SIN.
He frowned. “I can’t believe that.”
Lukas has been alive for a long time, he's had women fall all over him before, naturally, both past and present: it's not surprising, according to him, because he's good-looking, and he was from a wealthy family. But naturally, all other women are bland, and in all his years of living, only Jessie (whom he has known for all of three days, who has finally caught his heart.
“I want to stay because of you. I’ve never come across someone like you. Your strength and determination is astounding. It’s odd because you’re so incredibly infuriating---My entire life, all I wanted was to find something different. Special. I never would have guessed I’d have to sleep for so long to find it.”Three. Days.
Slut-shaming: Not just slut-shaming, every other female character within the book is portrayed in a bad manner, even her best friend, in order to highlight Jessie's personality. I fucking hate this shit. Why do women have to hate each other so much? Why does the author feel the need to make the main character look good at the expense of slut-shaming the other women around her? That is fucking bullshit, man, and it doesn't even make me like Jessie any more. It just makes me respect her---and the author, far, far less. It makes me so, so angry.
Jessie repeatedly calls other girls "bimbos," "bitches," Lukas' ex-fiancee is a "big fat ho." The girls at her school are all blond, evil, queen bees who dress like sluts. Every girl is a vamp, a seductress, compared to the oh-so-normal, oh-so-pure, never-been-kissed Jessie.
The Sins: Unoriginal and bland. They're either inexplicably stupid, like Lukas ("The guy was rare. Deadly and tainted by Wrath, but at his core, innocent and good." Extra Speshul, Lukas is), or horribly steoretypical, like Sloth, a New Joisey-swaggering, slow Italian type. Or just offensively unimaginative, like Lust.
The girl’s too-tight black sweater dipped to a dangerous V, showing off cleavage that would make a porn star proud, and ended just above her belly button. The skirt—if you could even call it that—hung at least seven inches above regulation and bordered on sheer.Vida's presence was offensive to me, not in that she encourages sexuality, but it is that Lust is used as a tool in which to incite emotions that seems to be shaming sexuality in general. Lust is portrayed as bad, as evil, as shameful, through Jessie's eyes. I don't like that one bit.
Unoriginal, and at times, confusing plot, peppered with slut-shaming and all the high school tropes in the book: not recommended.
July 8, 2013
Darker Days is a laugh-out-loud, thrilling start to a new series, gifting us with a protagonist whose sarcasm charms and whose acknowledgement of her own flaws has us falling more and more in love with her with each page. In addition to a standout young heroine, we are also treated to a well-executed mystery and romance, ensuring any of our small nitpicks along the way are vastly outnumbered by marks in the story’s favor. Though this is the first installment in a series, we get a complete plot arc wherein events are nicely wrapped up for us, but there’s also numerous legs for this series to stand on, a veritable centipede of young adult fiction ready to move forward and usher us along for the non-stop ride...
Full review available at: http://supernaturalsnark.blogspot.com...
Full review available at: http://supernaturalsnark.blogspot.com...
September 14, 2013
Maybe it's just me but it seems the YA paranormal genre has run out of new stories to tell?
August 22, 2013
Four Stars: An exciting and funny beginning to a new paranormal series.
Jessie so hates having to do penance. It wasn't her fault that her classmates paid her to take some incriminating pictures of the school principal with his much younger girlfriend. Was it her fault he was cheating? Nevertheless, her mother was furious. Jessie's punishment involves dealing with a zombie. Ugh. She hates zombies. After a dunk in the pool and narrowly missing being a zombie chew, Jessie heads home soaking wet. Something is up because the phones are ringing off the hook and paranormal activity is on the rise. A young man lands on their doorstep with an interesting tale to tell. He is one of the Seven deadly sins, and a whole lot of trouble is about to ensue if Jessie and her mother don't help him get the other sins back in the box in five days. Can Jessie return the sins to the box in time?
What I Liked:
*With the rise of contemporary NA books, paranormal YA titles aren't as prevalent this year. I was excited to settle into this one because I have been craving a good, solid paranormal book and this one definitely delivers. It has all the elements I love in a supernatural read from action, mystery, romance, paranormal, and more. This book features demons, witches, zombies, curses, ghosts, necromancers and the seven deadly sins reincarnated into human form. How fun is that?
Jessie is a great heroine. She is snarky, adventurous, stubborn and determined, not to mention resourceful. *This girl doesn't take no for an answer. She is headstrong and often lands into hot water because she refuses to listen to those who have her best interests in mind. Jessie is the kind of character who will make you laugh as you follow her antics. There aren't very many dull moments when it comes to Jessie.
*I loved the storyline in this one. There was a good solid mystery with plenty of twists and turns. The plot surrounds the opening of the box that contains the seven deadly sins. Lukas, a young man who at eighteen was betrayed when a powerful witch infused the sin Wrath into his soul, is determined to stop them. Lukas has been confined in the box for over one hundred and fifty years, seeking to undo his curse. Of course, he is up against impossible odds and the more Jessie and Lukas dig, the thicker the plot becomes. What appears on the surface as a rather simple story line is actually a plot with breadth and depth. There are lots of jaw dropping surprises in this one, and I came away satisfied that this book was so much more than I expected.
*One complaint in the YA genre is that the parents are absentee. This is not he case with this one. Jessie's mom, Klaire, is an active participant in the story. She is a tough parent, and she knows how to put Jesse in her place. Damien, Jessie's dad, has a solid role as well and he has plenty of interesting secrets. If you are tired of missing parents, you will enjoy the interaction between Jessie and both her parents.
*I loved that this one ended with a fast and furious and satisfactory conclusion. The end is dynamite. Everything snaps into place as all the twists are revealed. There are some shocking moments before everything winds down and closes neatly. However, there are some interesting story threads laid out for the next book. I can't wait to see how this series progresses.
And The Not So Much:
*The romance was a bit of a stumble for me. There was a lot of nice moments and for the most part I liked it, but I also felt it moved way too fast. The couple is exchanging I love yous in five days time after a bit of a rocky start. It is a bit too quick. I would much prefer for it to have stayed more in the solid friendship formation area with sparks of attraction, leaving room for it to grow in future books. At least there isn't a love triangle.
*I wished that there had been more detail on Jessie's late grandfather. There are so many references to him in the book and there is so little information on him. He played a critical role in the events even though he was dead. I thought it would have enhanced the story if there were more discussion on him. I was hoping to get into is diary entries, perhaps next time out. I am anxious to learn more about the whole Darker family history.
*I was a bit confused over Jessie's dad who just happens to be a demon. I wanted to know more about his life and what he did and all of that. There are just a few tantalizing tidbits on him and I was eager to know all.
Darker Days is a solid paranormal book that will remind you why you love this genre. It has great characters, an exciting storyline, snark, plenty of action, a romance, lots of paranormal entities and it ends with a bang. No cliffhangers or love triangles in this one. If you are hungering for a new YA paranormal series, I highly suggest you get this one!
Favorite Quotations:
"In short, he was the kind of guy that got his jollies from HBO late night and the Victoria's Secret catalog---not real time action."
"How was that possible? To go from kissy thoughts to kick-your-ass thoughts in a matter of seconds?"
"I don't know how dating was in your day, but stick a guy in a box for over a hundred years and he's not going to greet you with flowers and candy. A hatchet, maybe. And a continuous loop of Bob Saget skits---but not flowers and candy."
"I'd been drooled on by zombies, screamed at by banshees---even peed on by weres---but bitch--slapped by a girl wearing hooker heels and too much makeup? That was a first."
"But you can't avoid love because you're afraid to get hurt, and you can't choose who you fall in love with."
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Jessie so hates having to do penance. It wasn't her fault that her classmates paid her to take some incriminating pictures of the school principal with his much younger girlfriend. Was it her fault he was cheating? Nevertheless, her mother was furious. Jessie's punishment involves dealing with a zombie. Ugh. She hates zombies. After a dunk in the pool and narrowly missing being a zombie chew, Jessie heads home soaking wet. Something is up because the phones are ringing off the hook and paranormal activity is on the rise. A young man lands on their doorstep with an interesting tale to tell. He is one of the Seven deadly sins, and a whole lot of trouble is about to ensue if Jessie and her mother don't help him get the other sins back in the box in five days. Can Jessie return the sins to the box in time?
What I Liked:
*With the rise of contemporary NA books, paranormal YA titles aren't as prevalent this year. I was excited to settle into this one because I have been craving a good, solid paranormal book and this one definitely delivers. It has all the elements I love in a supernatural read from action, mystery, romance, paranormal, and more. This book features demons, witches, zombies, curses, ghosts, necromancers and the seven deadly sins reincarnated into human form. How fun is that?
Jessie is a great heroine. She is snarky, adventurous, stubborn and determined, not to mention resourceful. *This girl doesn't take no for an answer. She is headstrong and often lands into hot water because she refuses to listen to those who have her best interests in mind. Jessie is the kind of character who will make you laugh as you follow her antics. There aren't very many dull moments when it comes to Jessie.
*I loved the storyline in this one. There was a good solid mystery with plenty of twists and turns. The plot surrounds the opening of the box that contains the seven deadly sins. Lukas, a young man who at eighteen was betrayed when a powerful witch infused the sin Wrath into his soul, is determined to stop them. Lukas has been confined in the box for over one hundred and fifty years, seeking to undo his curse. Of course, he is up against impossible odds and the more Jessie and Lukas dig, the thicker the plot becomes. What appears on the surface as a rather simple story line is actually a plot with breadth and depth. There are lots of jaw dropping surprises in this one, and I came away satisfied that this book was so much more than I expected.
*One complaint in the YA genre is that the parents are absentee. This is not he case with this one. Jessie's mom, Klaire, is an active participant in the story. She is a tough parent, and she knows how to put Jesse in her place. Damien, Jessie's dad, has a solid role as well and he has plenty of interesting secrets. If you are tired of missing parents, you will enjoy the interaction between Jessie and both her parents.
*I loved that this one ended with a fast and furious and satisfactory conclusion. The end is dynamite. Everything snaps into place as all the twists are revealed. There are some shocking moments before everything winds down and closes neatly. However, there are some interesting story threads laid out for the next book. I can't wait to see how this series progresses.
And The Not So Much:
*The romance was a bit of a stumble for me. There was a lot of nice moments and for the most part I liked it, but I also felt it moved way too fast. The couple is exchanging I love yous in five days time after a bit of a rocky start. It is a bit too quick. I would much prefer for it to have stayed more in the solid friendship formation area with sparks of attraction, leaving room for it to grow in future books. At least there isn't a love triangle.
*I wished that there had been more detail on Jessie's late grandfather. There are so many references to him in the book and there is so little information on him. He played a critical role in the events even though he was dead. I thought it would have enhanced the story if there were more discussion on him. I was hoping to get into is diary entries, perhaps next time out. I am anxious to learn more about the whole Darker family history.
*I was a bit confused over Jessie's dad who just happens to be a demon. I wanted to know more about his life and what he did and all of that. There are just a few tantalizing tidbits on him and I was eager to know all.
Darker Days is a solid paranormal book that will remind you why you love this genre. It has great characters, an exciting storyline, snark, plenty of action, a romance, lots of paranormal entities and it ends with a bang. No cliffhangers or love triangles in this one. If you are hungering for a new YA paranormal series, I highly suggest you get this one!
Favorite Quotations:
"In short, he was the kind of guy that got his jollies from HBO late night and the Victoria's Secret catalog---not real time action."
"How was that possible? To go from kissy thoughts to kick-your-ass thoughts in a matter of seconds?"
"I don't know how dating was in your day, but stick a guy in a box for over a hundred years and he's not going to greet you with flowers and candy. A hatchet, maybe. And a continuous loop of Bob Saget skits---but not flowers and candy."
"I'd been drooled on by zombies, screamed at by banshees---even peed on by weres---but bitch--slapped by a girl wearing hooker heels and too much makeup? That was a first."
"But you can't avoid love because you're afraid to get hurt, and you can't choose who you fall in love with."
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
September 2, 2013
Darker Days by Jus Accardo was such an amazing book! After reading the synopsis, I knew the story would be right up my alley, yet the tale and, in particular, the characters, were more intriguing and laugh-inducing than I had previously hoped. The Darker Agency and family will certainly give the reader a grand adventure. Also, isn't the title clever?
Jessie Darker was, in my opinion, a great, and awesomely sarcastic, narrator. I know some would find her many snarky/silly comments annoying, but once in a while I need an entertaining character like her in a story. She is kind of quirky, although that could be blamed on her mom. For instance, Jessie's punishment for misbehaving is a "soggy zombie". So yeah, she is far from the average kid, yet she in never mopes or "wishes to be normal" like most heroines in paranormal books. That fact alone earned Darker Days serious bonus points in my book.
I also loved the family dynamics in Darker Days. Guess what? They all get along like a normal family despite the many paranormal interferences! The parents love their daughter, and vice versa. And both parents are alive! My favorite character in the book, was, funnily enough, Jessie's mom. I really want to know her story as the bits we get are extremely interesting.
The story was also creative. The way the Seven Sins worked, and the addition of other paranormal creatures, created a plot that was not cliche or predictable. Also, the length of the book was perfect. There were great action sequences and just enough time for a budding romance. Speaking of the romance... I LOVED it! The love interest was just right for Jessie, although I may have to admit I am a little jealous that she took him for herself. What do you mean she doesn't know I exist? She still should have let me have him! Anyway, the love interest, Lukas, is from like, a hundred years ago,which makes him adorable! I mean, he is formal and says funny things for the 21st century. Also, a lot of things are new to him, which is kind of cute to watch... (read? imagine?)
Overall, Darker Days. is an amazingly entertaining read. I would highly recommend this novel for book lovers looking for a light, cutesy paranormal story. I can honestly say there was nothing in this book I disliked. If Darker Days had any faults, they were overlooked in favor of the overall awesomeness! Also, I am anxiously looking forward to the next book.
Jessie Darker was, in my opinion, a great, and awesomely sarcastic, narrator. I know some would find her many snarky/silly comments annoying, but once in a while I need an entertaining character like her in a story. She is kind of quirky, although that could be blamed on her mom. For instance, Jessie's punishment for misbehaving is a "soggy zombie". So yeah, she is far from the average kid, yet she in never mopes or "wishes to be normal" like most heroines in paranormal books. That fact alone earned Darker Days serious bonus points in my book.
I also loved the family dynamics in Darker Days. Guess what? They all get along like a normal family despite the many paranormal interferences! The parents love their daughter, and vice versa. And both parents are alive! My favorite character in the book, was, funnily enough, Jessie's mom. I really want to know her story as the bits we get are extremely interesting.
The story was also creative. The way the Seven Sins worked, and the addition of other paranormal creatures, created a plot that was not cliche or predictable. Also, the length of the book was perfect. There were great action sequences and just enough time for a budding romance. Speaking of the romance... I LOVED it! The love interest was just right for Jessie, although I may have to admit I am a little jealous that she took him for herself. What do you mean she doesn't know I exist? She still should have let me have him! Anyway, the love interest, Lukas, is from like, a hundred years ago,which makes him adorable! I mean, he is formal and says funny things for the 21st century. Also, a lot of things are new to him, which is kind of cute to watch... (read? imagine?)
Overall, Darker Days. is an amazingly entertaining read. I would highly recommend this novel for book lovers looking for a light, cutesy paranormal story. I can honestly say there was nothing in this book I disliked. If Darker Days had any faults, they were overlooked in favor of the overall awesomeness! Also, I am anxiously looking forward to the next book.
August 17, 2013
Find this review and more at http://www.thereadingobsession.blogsp...
Darker Days wasn't exactly wasn't what I expected. I thought it would be creepier and not as predictable. However, it's still very good.
Jessie's voice sounds like a typical teenager. It doesn't seem like Just Accardo is trying, but it also doesn't sound all purple-proseish.
And guess what? There's no love triangle. At all. And that makes me so happy.
The beginning starts out with Jesse hunting down a paranormal creature. I forgot what it was, possibly because it was never important.
Some of the explanations and descriptions could have and should have been better, but I understood the entire gist of it.
I love the world of Darker Days. It truly was very imaginative and brilliant.
Overall, this book kept me hooked from the beginning, and I hope to read more in the story.
Darker Days wasn't exactly wasn't what I expected. I thought it would be creepier and not as predictable. However, it's still very good.
Jessie's voice sounds like a typical teenager. It doesn't seem like Just Accardo is trying, but it also doesn't sound all purple-proseish.
And guess what? There's no love triangle. At all. And that makes me so happy.
The beginning starts out with Jesse hunting down a paranormal creature. I forgot what it was, possibly because it was never important.
Some of the explanations and descriptions could have and should have been better, but I understood the entire gist of it.
I love the world of Darker Days. It truly was very imaginative and brilliant.
Overall, this book kept me hooked from the beginning, and I hope to read more in the story.
November 15, 2014
Oh, this was such a great book, really entertaining and interesting, and now to read more!
July 7, 2015
Достаточно увлекательная, веселая и динамичная книжечка. Чересчур наивная на мой взгляд , не в плохом смысле слова. Демоны, конец света, любовь- морковь :)
August 9, 2013
*Thanks so much to Entangled Teen for the review copy!*
Jus Accardo has blown me away once again; apparently she can do no wrong for me when it comes to her books!! I devoured this book in one setting and my only regret was that the next book wouldn’t be in my hands for a while!
Let me start off by saying how much I LOVE the cover. The girl looks confident and the two sides of her world are accurately portrayed through the colours. The smoke and wispy face in the background just add to the overall effect of the darkness and mystery of Jessie’s “other” world.
Jessie, like Jus’s other main character Dez in her Touch series, is a take charge, kick butt, and take no nonsense type of girl. One that I absolutely adore because she won’t put up with anyone’s bull! She is fiercely loyal to her family and friends and genuinely wants to help the mysterious and secretive Lukas. Her spunky side left me in stitches throughout most of the book but it was her ability to put others first that really hooked me to her character.
Now Lukas Scott. Damn Jus knows how to write swoon-worthy, sweet, ADORABLELY SEXY guys! Lukas character arrives suddenly to ask for the aid of Jessie’s mother, Klaire Darker and their family investigation business, to get the Sins back in their box before it’s too late. He is a gentleman through and through but he also takes charge when he wants to ;) There is a mystery surrounding Lukas and his story will make you want to crawl into the book and hug him (If you didn’t want to already!).He is a protective, caring, self-less person who you would always want on your side.
The romance between Jessie and Lukas was a tad fast paced but when put together with the whole urgency of the situation you can understand why. While reading their moments together I was happy to note the level of maturity between them. Yes they are both teens but they understood boundaries and limits that they weren’t read to cross yet.
Side characters such as Kendra, Klaire and Jessie’s Dad really make this story. The interaction between the family unit were sweet and caring and there is such an interesting dynamic between mother and daughter as they were close as friends as well as family, which can in turn cause some conflict as seen within the book. Jessie’s friendship with Kendra is one to envy. There is a strong bond between the two girls that really aids both on them throughout this book, which I hope to see more of in the coming books.
The blurb does sound a lot like an episode of Charmed but Jus Accardo has definitely put her own twist on a box of the Seven Deadly Sins being opened. The plot is intricate in the sense that not everything or everyone is what they seem. Each Sin can take hold of a person/human body IF that human is already susceptible to the Sin itself. These Sins cause havoc all around Jessie as her and her mother try to get all the sins back in the box without trapping the human bodies they hold.
Without spoiling anything I have to say the ending was a pleasant surprise. Though there will be repercussions for the choices that all characters had made throughout the book, you know that you will want to be with them for the whole ride-preferably sitting next to Lukas!!
Jus Accardo has a way of writing a book where you can sit down and read her book and not want to get up to put it down. The writing is strong and there was a certain fluidity to the story that allows you to get lost in her writing.
5/5 stars, if I could give more I would. I absolutely cannot wait until the next book!
Jus Accardo has blown me away once again; apparently she can do no wrong for me when it comes to her books!! I devoured this book in one setting and my only regret was that the next book wouldn’t be in my hands for a while!
Let me start off by saying how much I LOVE the cover. The girl looks confident and the two sides of her world are accurately portrayed through the colours. The smoke and wispy face in the background just add to the overall effect of the darkness and mystery of Jessie’s “other” world.
Jessie, like Jus’s other main character Dez in her Touch series, is a take charge, kick butt, and take no nonsense type of girl. One that I absolutely adore because she won’t put up with anyone’s bull! She is fiercely loyal to her family and friends and genuinely wants to help the mysterious and secretive Lukas. Her spunky side left me in stitches throughout most of the book but it was her ability to put others first that really hooked me to her character.
Now Lukas Scott. Damn Jus knows how to write swoon-worthy, sweet, ADORABLELY SEXY guys! Lukas character arrives suddenly to ask for the aid of Jessie’s mother, Klaire Darker and their family investigation business, to get the Sins back in their box before it’s too late. He is a gentleman through and through but he also takes charge when he wants to ;) There is a mystery surrounding Lukas and his story will make you want to crawl into the book and hug him (If you didn’t want to already!).He is a protective, caring, self-less person who you would always want on your side.
The romance between Jessie and Lukas was a tad fast paced but when put together with the whole urgency of the situation you can understand why. While reading their moments together I was happy to note the level of maturity between them. Yes they are both teens but they understood boundaries and limits that they weren’t read to cross yet.
Side characters such as Kendra, Klaire and Jessie’s Dad really make this story. The interaction between the family unit were sweet and caring and there is such an interesting dynamic between mother and daughter as they were close as friends as well as family, which can in turn cause some conflict as seen within the book. Jessie’s friendship with Kendra is one to envy. There is a strong bond between the two girls that really aids both on them throughout this book, which I hope to see more of in the coming books.
The blurb does sound a lot like an episode of Charmed but Jus Accardo has definitely put her own twist on a box of the Seven Deadly Sins being opened. The plot is intricate in the sense that not everything or everyone is what they seem. Each Sin can take hold of a person/human body IF that human is already susceptible to the Sin itself. These Sins cause havoc all around Jessie as her and her mother try to get all the sins back in the box without trapping the human bodies they hold.
Without spoiling anything I have to say the ending was a pleasant surprise. Though there will be repercussions for the choices that all characters had made throughout the book, you know that you will want to be with them for the whole ride-preferably sitting next to Lukas!!
Jus Accardo has a way of writing a book where you can sit down and read her book and not want to get up to put it down. The writing is strong and there was a certain fluidity to the story that allows you to get lost in her writing.
5/5 stars, if I could give more I would. I absolutely cannot wait until the next book!
September 1, 2013
Read Review at Bewitched Bookworms
Jus Accardo is one of my favorite authors as she always creates outstanding and very unique characters. Her “Toxic” series managed to completely blow me away, so I was eager to read about her new series featuring a girl who runs a “demon” agency with her mom! Bring it on!
Snarky – Quirky – and full of kick ass awesomeness!
Just as I had hoped, Jus Accardo created a wonderful and amazing heroine I loved to follow on her adventures. Jessi was so full of snark, I was bursting out laughing a few times! She’s strong, not afraid of anything and had always a witty comeback! Jessi grew up with her mother who followed the family business and runs an Agency that deals with paranormal activities. Demon exorcism and just basically everything that is slightly involved with anything paranormal. Jessie, even though still a teenager going to high school, helps her mom with some cases – and .. she loves it!
Truly, Jessi is made for this job! She’s super brave , not scared at all and takes even the most disgusting zombie with a lot of snark and fun! Well, but Jessi is also stubborn and knows exactly what she wants, even if her mother wants her out of a special case, it’s not in Jessie’s nature to just obey and step back. No, she wants to be there where the action is, which sometimes makes her a little reckless but is just more fun for us!
The 7 Deadly Sins on the loose and a case like no other!
In this first installment Jessie and her mom have to deal with the 7 deadly sins who suddenly are on the loose and cause panic! Even alone reading about this you can all imagine that this is going to be a plot full of chaos and mayhem. Jessie and her mom have only a week to bring them back in their box to keep their town from falling apart.
Now, add in the mixture a mysterious boy, Lucas who apparently has something to do with the 7 deadly sins, but seems to want to help capturing them – we end up with a pretty allure cast that makes up a great mix of awesome. I loved the idea for this storyline and I truly liked the wrap up at the end as it feels like a nice closure but open enough to be ready for the next installment.
Some sweet romance and some demonic family dynamics!
I’d say that at least for me, the romance didn’t take over the whole plot as it easily happens when you introduce a strong romance, the other plot takes a backseat. Here, the romance was just a nice addition and while there was definitely chemistry between Lucas and Jessie it was not what made me love this book so much. Wasn’t bad – but wasn’t butterlfly-amazing either. I was rather more fascinated with the family bonds, the dynamic between Jess and her mother was cute, but when Jessie’s father is thrown in the mix it got suddenly darkly fascinating!
Jus Accardo is one of my favorite authors as she always creates outstanding and very unique characters. Her “Toxic” series managed to completely blow me away, so I was eager to read about her new series featuring a girl who runs a “demon” agency with her mom! Bring it on!
Snarky – Quirky – and full of kick ass awesomeness!
Just as I had hoped, Jus Accardo created a wonderful and amazing heroine I loved to follow on her adventures. Jessi was so full of snark, I was bursting out laughing a few times! She’s strong, not afraid of anything and had always a witty comeback! Jessi grew up with her mother who followed the family business and runs an Agency that deals with paranormal activities. Demon exorcism and just basically everything that is slightly involved with anything paranormal. Jessie, even though still a teenager going to high school, helps her mom with some cases – and .. she loves it!
Truly, Jessi is made for this job! She’s super brave , not scared at all and takes even the most disgusting zombie with a lot of snark and fun! Well, but Jessi is also stubborn and knows exactly what she wants, even if her mother wants her out of a special case, it’s not in Jessie’s nature to just obey and step back. No, she wants to be there where the action is, which sometimes makes her a little reckless but is just more fun for us!
The 7 Deadly Sins on the loose and a case like no other!
In this first installment Jessie and her mom have to deal with the 7 deadly sins who suddenly are on the loose and cause panic! Even alone reading about this you can all imagine that this is going to be a plot full of chaos and mayhem. Jessie and her mom have only a week to bring them back in their box to keep their town from falling apart.
Now, add in the mixture a mysterious boy, Lucas who apparently has something to do with the 7 deadly sins, but seems to want to help capturing them – we end up with a pretty allure cast that makes up a great mix of awesome. I loved the idea for this storyline and I truly liked the wrap up at the end as it feels like a nice closure but open enough to be ready for the next installment.
Some sweet romance and some demonic family dynamics!
I’d say that at least for me, the romance didn’t take over the whole plot as it easily happens when you introduce a strong romance, the other plot takes a backseat. Here, the romance was just a nice addition and while there was definitely chemistry between Lucas and Jessie it was not what made me love this book so much. Wasn’t bad – but wasn’t butterlfly-amazing either. I was rather more fascinated with the family bonds, the dynamic between Jess and her mother was cute, but when Jessie’s father is thrown in the mix it got suddenly darkly fascinating!
August 16, 2013
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
The best moments of DARKER DAYS, the first book in Jus Accardo’s The Darker Agency, are like an early episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer with snappy one-liners, balancing supernatural smackdowns with homework, and impossible romance. The weaker moments, however, are a little more prevalent and reveal Jessie’s grating immaturity and the worst case of insta-love I’ve read all year.
Mom and daughter supernatural P.I. business? Sounds like a mix between Buffy and Veronica Mars, how awesome would that be? DARKER DAYS may have the premise down, and even the particular case which involves tracking down and capturing the seven deadly sins that have possessed innocent people, but the characters and tone are miss. Jessie, in particular, was irritatingly bossy and flippant. She makes rash decisions and talks constantly, not the most appealing mix, but the romantic lead is immediately captivated. And when I say immediately, I mean it.
Insta-love. Does anyone like it? Why do we see it over and over again in YA? In this case, they are dropping the L word in four days! And these aren’t spend-all-day-talking-and-sharing-our-souls days. They are filled with school and sleuthing and fighting demons and learning HUGE secrets about each other. As the start of a series, why couldn’t this romance be given time to breath and develop gradually? If only.
There is some fun to be had in DARKER DAYS due to the entertaining premise and basic plot. This could have been a much better book if the romance was more realistically portrayed and Jessie’s personality toned down a notch or two. Hopefully, the next book in The Darker Agency series will find a better balance.
Sexual Content:
Kissing
The best moments of DARKER DAYS, the first book in Jus Accardo’s The Darker Agency, are like an early episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer with snappy one-liners, balancing supernatural smackdowns with homework, and impossible romance. The weaker moments, however, are a little more prevalent and reveal Jessie’s grating immaturity and the worst case of insta-love I’ve read all year.
Mom and daughter supernatural P.I. business? Sounds like a mix between Buffy and Veronica Mars, how awesome would that be? DARKER DAYS may have the premise down, and even the particular case which involves tracking down and capturing the seven deadly sins that have possessed innocent people, but the characters and tone are miss. Jessie, in particular, was irritatingly bossy and flippant. She makes rash decisions and talks constantly, not the most appealing mix, but the romantic lead is immediately captivated. And when I say immediately, I mean it.
Insta-love. Does anyone like it? Why do we see it over and over again in YA? In this case, they are dropping the L word in four days! And these aren’t spend-all-day-talking-and-sharing-our-souls days. They are filled with school and sleuthing and fighting demons and learning HUGE secrets about each other. As the start of a series, why couldn’t this romance be given time to breath and develop gradually? If only.
There is some fun to be had in DARKER DAYS due to the entertaining premise and basic plot. This could have been a much better book if the romance was more realistically portrayed and Jessie’s personality toned down a notch or two. Hopefully, the next book in The Darker Agency series will find a better balance.
Sexual Content:
Kissing
October 22, 2013
For some inexplicable reason I kept putting off writing this review for quite some time, and now I'm a bit fuzzy on the details, so I'm going to make it quick and dirty.
I decided to read this book, because it was freshly released, had an interesting premise, a surprisingly high rating and promised humor, action and romance. Well, it failed to impress me on all accounts.
The start was rather funny and energetic, and the overall tone of the narrative and our protagonist, Jessie, reminded me a lot of Hex Hall. But about 10% into the story I began to get tired of Jessie’s voice and manner of speaking. It was like the author tried too hard to make her sound funny but the result was annoying. Too much snark for me here. Sophie Mercer from Hex Hall never affected me that way.
I expected the love interest to be fun because he is one of the Seven Deadly Sins, after all, but he was very boring and only slightly villainous. After a couple of months, I'm having a hard time even remembering his name. Aaand, the romance was one of the most severe cases of instalove known to man.
The character that I probably liked the most in this book is Jessie's pet, mr. Winkie the possessed Corgi dog.
The mystery and the reasoning behind it was over-complicated and I felt like I needed a chronological chart of what, how, why and in what time period every character said andfucked up done. Not to mention that I had a lot of issues with the logic of it all.
I doubt I will continue with the series, not my cup of tea at all.
I decided to read this book, because it was freshly released, had an interesting premise, a surprisingly high rating and promised humor, action and romance. Well, it failed to impress me on all accounts.
The start was rather funny and energetic, and the overall tone of the narrative and our protagonist, Jessie, reminded me a lot of Hex Hall. But about 10% into the story I began to get tired of Jessie’s voice and manner of speaking. It was like the author tried too hard to make her sound funny but the result was annoying. Too much snark for me here. Sophie Mercer from Hex Hall never affected me that way.
I expected the love interest to be fun because he is one of the Seven Deadly Sins, after all, but he was very boring and only slightly villainous. After a couple of months, I'm having a hard time even remembering his name. Aaand, the romance was one of the most severe cases of instalove known to man.
The character that I probably liked the most in this book is Jessie's pet, mr. Winkie the possessed Corgi dog.
The mystery and the reasoning behind it was over-complicated and I felt like I needed a chronological chart of what, how, why and in what time period every character said and
I doubt I will continue with the series, not my cup of tea at all.
September 10, 2013
Darker Days by Jus Accardo was a light, entertaining read featuring a feisty heroine and a great mother-daughter relationship. I do think however that I was in just the right mood for this novel as I wasn’t as bothered by certain things that typically annoy me (e.g. insta-love).
The main character, Jessie, was someone I liked. Although her choice of curse words was a bit strange, she was relatable for the most part. I also found her to be snarky, loyal and very determined.
Another thing that I liked was the close relationship Jessie had with her mother. It was nice to read a story where the main character not only had good rapport with her parent, but more importantly, idolized them as a role model.
As much as I enjoyed Darker Days, I wish that Jessie and Lucas hadn’t fallen in love so fast. I also found that despite being the personification of Wrath, Lucas was remarkably in control of himself most of the time. It would have been more interesting to see him lose his temper a few more times to remind us that he’s not a normal guy.
The first book in The Darker Agency series, Darker Days wraps up satisfyingly, without a cliffhanger.
The main character, Jessie, was someone I liked. Although her choice of curse words was a bit strange, she was relatable for the most part. I also found her to be snarky, loyal and very determined.
Another thing that I liked was the close relationship Jessie had with her mother. It was nice to read a story where the main character not only had good rapport with her parent, but more importantly, idolized them as a role model.
As much as I enjoyed Darker Days, I wish that Jessie and Lucas hadn’t fallen in love so fast. I also found that despite being the personification of Wrath, Lucas was remarkably in control of himself most of the time. It would have been more interesting to see him lose his temper a few more times to remind us that he’s not a normal guy.
The first book in The Darker Agency series, Darker Days wraps up satisfyingly, without a cliffhanger.
June 19, 2013
Seven Deadly sins. One sexy deadly sin. Yeah, just to get you started. I loved this book! The cover was gorgeous, the story amazing, the characters appealing. Jessie Darker is a very strong chick, I loved her for it. She was fearless, driven and ready to pow-wow some Deadly Sin butt. Another aspect I really liked was how the relationship with her mother was. They were very close and used to taking care of themselves and ran the agency alone. They had a good bond, and I liked seeing it.
Lukas Scott. Well, he's gorgeous and so innocent and cute, but from the beginning you can see the chemistry and his amusement and attraction to Jessie. I don't want to give away any details, so I'm a bit skeptical as to what I should say about him. The very important point is... read it because omg so much stuff that you won't see coming and ... SINS! BOX! DEADLY!
Lukas Scott. Well, he's gorgeous and so innocent and cute, but from the beginning you can see the chemistry and his amusement and attraction to Jessie. I don't want to give away any details, so I'm a bit skeptical as to what I should say about him. The very important point is... read it because omg so much stuff that you won't see coming and ... SINS! BOX! DEADLY!
January 24, 2018
*Warning* There is a triggering scene in this book. There is an almost-rape in this book. It does stop at the first button on the jeans, but it is in there. Be forewarned...
This book was a really good start to my 2018 reading year. It had a lot of action, a lot of creepy creatures that go bump in the night, and a kick-ass heroine who is snarky to boot.
I think the pacing was on point. I was never bored, and there weren't many lulls where I was about to become bored, either. Our main character is Jessie Darker, a "normal" girl who works with her mom to run a detective agency for regular and paranormal cases. She is snarky and smart, yet has her weaknesses. I thought Jessie was a great main character, and I gladly followed her through this story.
Her love interest, Lukas, is awesome too! He is kind and gentlemanly, yet can go head to head with Jessie without batting an eye. I really liked Lukas. He was a great love interest, and there is quite a bit of chemistry between Jessie and him.
The thing that kept this book from earning 5 stars from me was the writing, unfortunately. The beginning gives you all these tantalizing hints, but doesn't sate your curiosity for far too long, in my opinion. Another thing that bugged me was the fact that we didn't find out Jessie's name until several pages into the book. For those first few pages, she was simply "main character" to me, which made it hard to feel that instant connection to her. These are probably just personal gripes, but they did hinder the book, and therefore I gave this book 4 stars. I still recommend this book, though! I thought it was fun and fast-paced, and I'm glad it was my first read of the year. It started my reading in 2018 off right!
This book was a really good start to my 2018 reading year. It had a lot of action, a lot of creepy creatures that go bump in the night, and a kick-ass heroine who is snarky to boot.
I think the pacing was on point. I was never bored, and there weren't many lulls where I was about to become bored, either. Our main character is Jessie Darker, a "normal" girl who works with her mom to run a detective agency for regular and paranormal cases. She is snarky and smart, yet has her weaknesses. I thought Jessie was a great main character, and I gladly followed her through this story.
Her love interest, Lukas, is awesome too! He is kind and gentlemanly, yet can go head to head with Jessie without batting an eye. I really liked Lukas. He was a great love interest, and there is quite a bit of chemistry between Jessie and him.
The thing that kept this book from earning 5 stars from me was the writing, unfortunately. The beginning gives you all these tantalizing hints, but doesn't sate your curiosity for far too long, in my opinion. Another thing that bugged me was the fact that we didn't find out Jessie's name until several pages into the book. For those first few pages, she was simply "main character" to me, which made it hard to feel that instant connection to her. These are probably just personal gripes, but they did hinder the book, and therefore I gave this book 4 stars. I still recommend this book, though! I thought it was fun and fast-paced, and I'm glad it was my first read of the year. It started my reading in 2018 off right!
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March 27, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/27/2020)! 🎁
June 12, 2018
I enjoyed the story a lot, the characters were funny and strong-minded. There some parts that I didn't think were the best... but still a really good story.
April 1, 2020
Great YA read! Didn't expect anything else from Jus Accardo than action-packed drama, dangerous creatures and crazy love.
August 2, 2013
4.5
Jus Accardo has proven to me that I should pay attention to her books. She writes exciting, no ordinary stories with strong, kickass, cool heroes (and heroines) and with many twists. And in case of Darker Days, we got the same.
Jessie (the protagonist) almost the same as Dez in Denazen series. A spirited, badass young girl and she has incredible sarcastic humor, that doesn’t leave her alone even in the most impossible situation either. Because of her family, she is not ordinary. Everday things like shopping, going to parties or dating are not in her daily routine, but killling zombies, demons and ghosts are just some of the totally common things she does and she knows the supernatural world better than average people. She”s living with her mother alone (her father… I rather wouldn’t mention him:)) and although they have many arguments, we can see that they have a very good relationship. All their incomes are coming from their family detective agency, they work at.
And then a young man, Lukas comes. He asks for their helps, primarily the help of Jessie’s mother, because she is a bigger expert. Lukas is very similar to Kale from Denazen series as well, and I think this was the main reason I started to like him almost immediately. He is HAWT, sexy and partially is just as dangerous and innocent as the blue-eyed assassin boy, but of course he has totally different reasons for being such a person. This behavior results in many funny situations, as he doesn’t understand the slangs of the young generation and watches our world with admiration.
At first Jessie has so much fun watching Lukas (and we do as well:)), but then she gets closer to the „miracle boy” as she has to watch after Lukas while her mother investigates.
And the main story: I haven’t read many of such books, where The Seven Deadly Sins would be main characters. They prove to be difficult enemies and Jessie and her family have to use all of their knowledge, if they want to win against them. They have very short time and of course The Sins don’t wait for them peacefully, they stir up the small town and their inhabitants’ life, sometimes they are creating funny or rather more dangerous situations.
If I’m already talking about the characters, I have to mention „somebody” else: Smokey, the ghost corgi, who appeares in one of Jessie’s mission and will be her company – sometimes annoying, sometimes helpful company:). I loved him! I want a corgi as well!!!
And the investigation. For me that was one of the most interesting parts, I love these parts in most novels. I love to build the whole story up from small pieces and find out the solution with the heroes. In this story it turned out very soon that they won’t be enough to find the solution themselves, so they have to ask a really dangerous power – one that would make everyone run as far as they can while screaming like girls - for help and yes, of course, Jessie isn’t happy with this solution either.. And it makes me curious to see how she will get out of this situation:).
And the love story… Jessie hadn’t been interested in boys until now, as she hasn’t got enough time, so she is totally inexperienced. Lukas is already ahead of her in this case, but his education stopping him from „many things”:). They have lovely and sometimes HAWT scenes and their chemistry is unbelievably strong, but for now they are a little bit clumsy:). Then I didn’t even mention Jessie’s parents, who are very suspicious and they always trying to control our little couple:). And extra points for Jus – there ISN’T a love triangle in the novel, which is so fashinable nowadays. (and interestingly the love story works without it nicely and at least it is even realistic!).
And how much I love this novel? A lot. Were there any problems? Only small things, for example Jessie’s mother. It is said that she is an expert and Jessie is only a side-kick. In comparison we see almost only Jessie in action, she solves all the difficult cases. I would like to see her mother more in action, so that I could feel that she is indeed an expert and not only read about it.
Summarized, this is an unique, awesome paranormal YA story, and I can’t wait for the next one. I think you guys would love Jessie as much as I do and Lukas is….irresistible! I love the background world, it is very well built and I would like to point out especially the supernatural world. The Hell is totally the same, as I imagine – fearsome, dark and depressing, a place where I don’t want to be!
As this is a debut novel of a new series, I’m giving „only” 4,5 and I’m waiting for the next one because I want to be more dazzled and then I could give 5 points for it!
Jus Accardo has proven to me that I should pay attention to her books. She writes exciting, no ordinary stories with strong, kickass, cool heroes (and heroines) and with many twists. And in case of Darker Days, we got the same.
Jessie (the protagonist) almost the same as Dez in Denazen series. A spirited, badass young girl and she has incredible sarcastic humor, that doesn’t leave her alone even in the most impossible situation either. Because of her family, she is not ordinary. Everday things like shopping, going to parties or dating are not in her daily routine, but killling zombies, demons and ghosts are just some of the totally common things she does and she knows the supernatural world better than average people. She”s living with her mother alone (her father… I rather wouldn’t mention him:)) and although they have many arguments, we can see that they have a very good relationship. All their incomes are coming from their family detective agency, they work at.
And then a young man, Lukas comes. He asks for their helps, primarily the help of Jessie’s mother, because she is a bigger expert. Lukas is very similar to Kale from Denazen series as well, and I think this was the main reason I started to like him almost immediately. He is HAWT, sexy and partially is just as dangerous and innocent as the blue-eyed assassin boy, but of course he has totally different reasons for being such a person. This behavior results in many funny situations, as he doesn’t understand the slangs of the young generation and watches our world with admiration.
At first Jessie has so much fun watching Lukas (and we do as well:)), but then she gets closer to the „miracle boy” as she has to watch after Lukas while her mother investigates.
And the main story: I haven’t read many of such books, where The Seven Deadly Sins would be main characters. They prove to be difficult enemies and Jessie and her family have to use all of their knowledge, if they want to win against them. They have very short time and of course The Sins don’t wait for them peacefully, they stir up the small town and their inhabitants’ life, sometimes they are creating funny or rather more dangerous situations.
If I’m already talking about the characters, I have to mention „somebody” else: Smokey, the ghost corgi, who appeares in one of Jessie’s mission and will be her company – sometimes annoying, sometimes helpful company:). I loved him! I want a corgi as well!!!
And the investigation. For me that was one of the most interesting parts, I love these parts in most novels. I love to build the whole story up from small pieces and find out the solution with the heroes. In this story it turned out very soon that they won’t be enough to find the solution themselves, so they have to ask a really dangerous power – one that would make everyone run as far as they can while screaming like girls - for help and yes, of course, Jessie isn’t happy with this solution either.. And it makes me curious to see how she will get out of this situation:).
And the love story… Jessie hadn’t been interested in boys until now, as she hasn’t got enough time, so she is totally inexperienced. Lukas is already ahead of her in this case, but his education stopping him from „many things”:). They have lovely and sometimes HAWT scenes and their chemistry is unbelievably strong, but for now they are a little bit clumsy:). Then I didn’t even mention Jessie’s parents, who are very suspicious and they always trying to control our little couple:). And extra points for Jus – there ISN’T a love triangle in the novel, which is so fashinable nowadays. (and interestingly the love story works without it nicely and at least it is even realistic!).
And how much I love this novel? A lot. Were there any problems? Only small things, for example Jessie’s mother. It is said that she is an expert and Jessie is only a side-kick. In comparison we see almost only Jessie in action, she solves all the difficult cases. I would like to see her mother more in action, so that I could feel that she is indeed an expert and not only read about it.
Summarized, this is an unique, awesome paranormal YA story, and I can’t wait for the next one. I think you guys would love Jessie as much as I do and Lukas is….irresistible! I love the background world, it is very well built and I would like to point out especially the supernatural world. The Hell is totally the same, as I imagine – fearsome, dark and depressing, a place where I don’t want to be!
As this is a debut novel of a new series, I’m giving „only” 4,5 and I’m waiting for the next one because I want to be more dazzled and then I could give 5 points for it!
November 27, 2014
*Genre* Young Adult, Paranormal
*Rating* 3.0
*My Thoughts*
17-year old Jessie Darker and her mother Klaire, run a private investigative service that isn't exactly normal in it's scope. While Klaire follows cases linked to artifact thefts and property damage, Jessie, while still attending High School, pursues rampaging spirits and demon possession. Jessie isn't exactly your normal teenager and her own actions speak volumes when she takes cases she's been told NOT to. She's part demon on her fathers side, and more times than not, Jessie has a tendency of being a bull in a china shop which leaves her mother cleaning up HER messes.
Things pick up when Lukas Scott asks the Darker Agency to locate and stop the Seven Deadly Sins from causing major havoc in Penance. What's the catch? They only have 5 days to round the sins up and lock them away again before they take the human bodies they are possessing back to the box that once held them captive. All they need to do to stop the rampage from happening, is to find a descendant of the powerful witch who locked them up more than a century before and the box that contained them. Easy. Peasy. Right? Yeah, no.
As for the plot, Darker Days is filled with action, mystery, and romance. The city that the story is set in, Penance, has more than its fair share of paranormal characters. There are demons, witches, werewolves, voodoo priestess, and necromancers. The town is shaken by the arrival of the seven deadly sins who have been reincarnated into human bodies, and villainous witch who wants her own form of revenge on the Darker Family.
Jessie is a character who is the true essence of being overly snarky, impatient, impulsive, and destructive. There is a point to being overly snarky. I think Jessie absolutely reaches that point on more than one occasion. She can't help but to do and say things that you want to either laugh or curl up and hurl. She has an irritating ability to put people down when they don't speak her language. She runs off at the handle, and finds her self in deep kimchee without any backup. I do think there are some things that need to be asked about Jessie's heritage and why it has taken her so long to show any signs of following after her father, Damien, who just happens to be a Shadow Demon. I also want to know why no discussion took place between Klaire and Jessie over THAT possibility happening.
While the story is told from the perspective of Jessie, the one character that you have to feel a connection to is Lukas. Lukas was betrayed by powerful witch and infused the Wrath sin almost 150 years before. He is seeking revenge, and is determined to stop the villain from continuing to unlock the box containing the 7 deadly sins. Although he has been thrown a major curveball in his life, he somehow managed to capture my attention because he truly is a stranger from a strange land who finds himself in a new world with all sorts of new technology he's never seen before.
Darker Days could be another example of love at first sight, or in other circles, Insta-lust. I do believe that they do have a connection. I do believe that the connection can last through trials and tribulations. I just wish that we could have a story where the romance is slowly built from the ground up, until you have the idea moment where everything just clicks together like Legos.
I'm happy that Accardo didn't toss Jessie's parents down the chute or totally ignore them. For once, Jessie's parents played a major role in this story, especially her mother. Yes, it is Jessie's to do what she will do, but the dynamics of her family is one that you have to take notice. There are lots of questions about Damien that I need to ask, but I'll hold my patience until the next installment. Lots of YA novels have a bad habit of removing family dynamics either by killing off a parent, or leaving them as helicopter parents. I am also happy that while Accardo does push Jessie around and pushes her to act like an adult, she didn't fully go into the area that I find offensive and unnecessary. Rape.
Coincidentally, I do have the second installment, A Darker Past (Thanks to Entangled!) and will be reading that story next. I do think that Jessie has room for improvement and growth. I'm hoping that Accardo doesn't linger with Jessie's new deal, or leave her parents out in the cold. I hope we see more of the other paranormals that appeared as tertiary characters in Darker Days. We shall see.
Published August 26th 2013 by Entangled Teen Ember (first published August 19th 2013)
*Rating* 3.0
*My Thoughts*
17-year old Jessie Darker and her mother Klaire, run a private investigative service that isn't exactly normal in it's scope. While Klaire follows cases linked to artifact thefts and property damage, Jessie, while still attending High School, pursues rampaging spirits and demon possession. Jessie isn't exactly your normal teenager and her own actions speak volumes when she takes cases she's been told NOT to. She's part demon on her fathers side, and more times than not, Jessie has a tendency of being a bull in a china shop which leaves her mother cleaning up HER messes.
Things pick up when Lukas Scott asks the Darker Agency to locate and stop the Seven Deadly Sins from causing major havoc in Penance. What's the catch? They only have 5 days to round the sins up and lock them away again before they take the human bodies they are possessing back to the box that once held them captive. All they need to do to stop the rampage from happening, is to find a descendant of the powerful witch who locked them up more than a century before and the box that contained them. Easy. Peasy. Right? Yeah, no.
As for the plot, Darker Days is filled with action, mystery, and romance. The city that the story is set in, Penance, has more than its fair share of paranormal characters. There are demons, witches, werewolves, voodoo priestess, and necromancers. The town is shaken by the arrival of the seven deadly sins who have been reincarnated into human bodies, and villainous witch who wants her own form of revenge on the Darker Family.
Jessie is a character who is the true essence of being overly snarky, impatient, impulsive, and destructive. There is a point to being overly snarky. I think Jessie absolutely reaches that point on more than one occasion. She can't help but to do and say things that you want to either laugh or curl up and hurl. She has an irritating ability to put people down when they don't speak her language. She runs off at the handle, and finds her self in deep kimchee without any backup. I do think there are some things that need to be asked about Jessie's heritage and why it has taken her so long to show any signs of following after her father, Damien, who just happens to be a Shadow Demon. I also want to know why no discussion took place between Klaire and Jessie over THAT possibility happening.
While the story is told from the perspective of Jessie, the one character that you have to feel a connection to is Lukas. Lukas was betrayed by powerful witch and infused the Wrath sin almost 150 years before. He is seeking revenge, and is determined to stop the villain from continuing to unlock the box containing the 7 deadly sins. Although he has been thrown a major curveball in his life, he somehow managed to capture my attention because he truly is a stranger from a strange land who finds himself in a new world with all sorts of new technology he's never seen before.
Darker Days could be another example of love at first sight, or in other circles, Insta-lust. I do believe that they do have a connection. I do believe that the connection can last through trials and tribulations. I just wish that we could have a story where the romance is slowly built from the ground up, until you have the idea moment where everything just clicks together like Legos.
I'm happy that Accardo didn't toss Jessie's parents down the chute or totally ignore them. For once, Jessie's parents played a major role in this story, especially her mother. Yes, it is Jessie's to do what she will do, but the dynamics of her family is one that you have to take notice. There are lots of questions about Damien that I need to ask, but I'll hold my patience until the next installment. Lots of YA novels have a bad habit of removing family dynamics either by killing off a parent, or leaving them as helicopter parents. I am also happy that while Accardo does push Jessie around and pushes her to act like an adult, she didn't fully go into the area that I find offensive and unnecessary. Rape.
Coincidentally, I do have the second installment, A Darker Past (Thanks to Entangled!) and will be reading that story next. I do think that Jessie has room for improvement and growth. I'm hoping that Accardo doesn't linger with Jessie's new deal, or leave her parents out in the cold. I hope we see more of the other paranormals that appeared as tertiary characters in Darker Days. We shall see.
Published August 26th 2013 by Entangled Teen Ember (first published August 19th 2013)
July 4, 2013
Jus Accardo is one of my favorite YA paranormal authors and after 3 successful books from her, I've vowed to everything that she writes in the future. When I found out about her new series coming out, I was beyond ecstatic because I knew that she would deliver yet another fantastic series I could fangirl over. Darker Days has to be one of the best YA paranormal books I've read in a long time.
Jus Accardo's strongest point is her characterization. She proved in her Denazen series how good she was at taking her time to develop her characters' personalities so as to flesh out complex characters that are easy to get attached to. She did the very same thing here with Darker Days. The main character, Jessie, was a fun-loving girl armed with attitude. It was a total delight being inside her head. She was down-to-earth, full of sarcasm and humor, so it was hard not to love her. What I loved mostly about her though was her good nature. She went to lengths, even risking her own life, to protect the people that she cared for. I admired this personality trait of hers and by the end of the book, Jessie had become one of my favorite YA characters. Lukas, the love interest, was also a lovable character. After reading multiple Entangled Teen books I've come to the conclusion that they must have a requirement when they pick up a book for publication : the book must have a swoon-worthy hero. And Lukas was no exception. Sweet, caring and goofy at times, Lukas has to be one of the nicest YA love interest I've come across. As much as I love my bad-boys in my YA novels, I seem to have a greater attraction to the nice ones. His interactions and banter with Jessie were a blast to read about especially because they are different in personality to some extent with Jessie being a little fiery. I loved how the secondary characters, especially Jessie's mom and dad, played such a crucial role to the plot. It's nice to see a YA book where the parental figures are aware of the supernatural beings and are themselves part of the world, so I very much appreciated that.
I have to say, this author sure does come up with some original ideas. Who would have thought that it was possible to write a book out of the Seven Deadly Sins! The Seven Deadly Sins! Just how cool is that? I know I was completely amazed by the uniqueness of the plot line. The plot developed beautifully and Jus Accardo's world building and background-building were strong. It was clear and easy for me to immerse myself in the world she had vividly crafted. She definitely excels at world-building and Darker Days is proof to that. I think my only complaint when it came to this book was the fast pace the romance between Jessie and Lukas develops. I like my romance to develop at a nice and slow pace so I can feel the build up, but in Darker Days, Jessie and Lukas do fall for each other a little too fast. However, that did not mar my enjoyment of the book because like I mentioned above, I loved Jessie and Lukas' interactions. One of my favorite aspects of Darker Days was the strong relationship between Jessie and her mother. The love and care that the two had for each other was palpable in all the scenes they appeared together. I was a huge fan of Jus Accardo when I started this book, so I had no doubts that her writing in this would be phenomenal. Her prose has an addictive quality to it and once you start reading, you're hooked until you turn the last page of the book. Plus, the writing in this book was laced with her signature humor that made this book even more entertaining. She is a highly talented writer and I can't wait for more from her.
Fresh, original and addictive, Darker Days is a book for all those who are tired of the typical vampires, werewolves and angels of the current YA paranormal books. The brilliant characters, the entertaining plot line and the addictive writing style will have you devouring this book in a matter of few hours.
June 18, 2013
Totally different to the amazing Denazen series but love this book too . . . the start of yet another great series from Jus Accardo!
MY REVIEW
I won this in the e-arc giveaways run by Jus Accardo & Entangled Teen, in exchange for my honest review. I would definitely pick this one up from a book store shelf, the cover is certainly colourful and attractive. I like the use of different fonts for the book title and the series title as well as the placement of the titles and author's name too. Not so keen on the "Best Selling Author" tag as I already know Jus writes great books and who buys a book just because it says "Best Selling Author" on it? If anything and I didn't really know anything about the author, I would most probably be put off. The byline "Their client is pure sin . . . .literally" is a good clue to the subject matter of the book yet cryptic enough not to give everything about the plot away. Now this next one is a toughie for me as I usually say I totally hate quotes about the book from other Authors but. . . and it's a rather large but . . this quote "This rocking tale of good vs. evil is packed with twists and turns. A terrific start to a new series" Jana Oliver, Award Winning Author of The Demon Trappers series. I l.o.v.e love and it would definitely sell the book to me regardless of anything else as I totally love Jana Oliver and her books! So to sum up I love the cover and would definitely buy it! Looking at the blurb, I would say it wuld further "sell2 the book to me.
Now onto the book, basically the main characters of the book are Jessica Darker and her mum Klaire Darker. Klaire Darker runs the family investigative agency, which has been in the family for a few generations and is called The Darker Agency. Jessie though still at school does help out in the business and is learning more and more about it. The Darker Agency not only does "human" investigative/detective type work, they also do "Otherworlder jobs". So that's paranormal type jobs like rogue zombies, pet possessions and poltergeists as well as chasing down loser fathers who don't pay maintenance and those men or women cheating on their partners too. This particular book is centred mainly on their new client Lukas Scott. Lukas is a human with an Otherworlder problem. You see Lukas has been possessed by one of the seven deadly sins. The other six are rampaging themselves, only they aren't rampaging as much as you think they would, there's something else odd going on too, but what or who is the problem?
I will admit to totally loving Jus Accardo's Denazen series so I did have high expectations for this book. Did the book meet them? Yes and surpassed them I loved the book. I reckon this book is the beginning of another fantastic series. The only question I really have is when can I have the next one to read?
I loved the characters of Jessie,Lukas, Klaire and Damien. I also liked the relationships featured in the book. Jessies relationships with her parents, and then her blossoming relationship with the hunky, gorgeous sounding, but oh so gentlemanly Lukas.
This book has action, drama, a little romance, plenty of twists and turns, mythology, family history and much much more.
I'm really looking forward to learning more about the characters already in this book and also anticipating the other scenarios for the future books too.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes! I really did.Would I recommend the book? Yes! but come on Jana Oliver . . . yes the fantastic Jana Oliver recommends it too! Would I read a Bk#2? Yes please as soon as it's available! Would I read another book by Jus Accardo? I already have read other books by her! (The totally brilliant Denazen Series).
MY REVIEW
I won this in the e-arc giveaways run by Jus Accardo & Entangled Teen, in exchange for my honest review. I would definitely pick this one up from a book store shelf, the cover is certainly colourful and attractive. I like the use of different fonts for the book title and the series title as well as the placement of the titles and author's name too. Not so keen on the "Best Selling Author" tag as I already know Jus writes great books and who buys a book just because it says "Best Selling Author" on it? If anything and I didn't really know anything about the author, I would most probably be put off. The byline "Their client is pure sin . . . .literally" is a good clue to the subject matter of the book yet cryptic enough not to give everything about the plot away. Now this next one is a toughie for me as I usually say I totally hate quotes about the book from other Authors but. . . and it's a rather large but . . this quote "This rocking tale of good vs. evil is packed with twists and turns. A terrific start to a new series" Jana Oliver, Award Winning Author of The Demon Trappers series. I l.o.v.e love and it would definitely sell the book to me regardless of anything else as I totally love Jana Oliver and her books! So to sum up I love the cover and would definitely buy it! Looking at the blurb, I would say it wuld further "sell2 the book to me.
Now onto the book, basically the main characters of the book are Jessica Darker and her mum Klaire Darker. Klaire Darker runs the family investigative agency, which has been in the family for a few generations and is called The Darker Agency. Jessie though still at school does help out in the business and is learning more and more about it. The Darker Agency not only does "human" investigative/detective type work, they also do "Otherworlder jobs". So that's paranormal type jobs like rogue zombies, pet possessions and poltergeists as well as chasing down loser fathers who don't pay maintenance and those men or women cheating on their partners too. This particular book is centred mainly on their new client Lukas Scott. Lukas is a human with an Otherworlder problem. You see Lukas has been possessed by one of the seven deadly sins. The other six are rampaging themselves, only they aren't rampaging as much as you think they would, there's something else odd going on too, but what or who is the problem?
I will admit to totally loving Jus Accardo's Denazen series so I did have high expectations for this book. Did the book meet them? Yes and surpassed them I loved the book. I reckon this book is the beginning of another fantastic series. The only question I really have is when can I have the next one to read?
I loved the characters of Jessie,Lukas, Klaire and Damien. I also liked the relationships featured in the book. Jessies relationships with her parents, and then her blossoming relationship with the hunky, gorgeous sounding, but oh so gentlemanly Lukas.
This book has action, drama, a little romance, plenty of twists and turns, mythology, family history and much much more.
I'm really looking forward to learning more about the characters already in this book and also anticipating the other scenarios for the future books too.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes! I really did.Would I recommend the book? Yes! but come on Jana Oliver . . . yes the fantastic Jana Oliver recommends it too! Would I read a Bk#2? Yes please as soon as it's available! Would I read another book by Jus Accardo? I already have read other books by her! (The totally brilliant Denazen Series).
August 26, 2013
Author, Jus Accardo, has done it again with this brand new series that I was totally dying to read! And let me tell you, Darker Days did not disappoint! Strong female lead, swoon worthy boyfriend material, and a storyline that is so gripping that you’ll have a difficult time putting it down.
Jessie Darker is not your typical teen. Jessie is half demon (thanks to her father), and helps run the family business, Darker Agency. Sure, they help with cases like missing people and confirming infidelity, etc., but they do more than just that. They specialize in the paranormal. Things that go bump in the night, things that you would only find in nightmares…Jessie and her mom are pros when it comes to these sort of things. Think of it like what Angel does, from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, when he started his own spin off and has his own investigation agency. Same gist.
Jessie and her mother end up getting the mother of all cases. Apparently, someone has decided to steal a special box that housed something very unique…the 7 deadly sins. Not only has it been stolen, but some genius has opened the box and these sins have gotten out and are looking for hosts to possess. Not only is that a pretty crazy case, but what’s crazier is the individual who is seeking the assistance of the Darkers to right the wrong that has been done. Enter Lukas Scott, aka Wrath. Yes, THAT Wrath, one of the 7 deadly sins.
Betrayed by a witch over a century ago, Lukas has been trapped in the box with other deadly sins as a human. Lukas needs the help of the Darkers to locate a descendant from the bloodline of the witch that had originally cursed him as she is the only one who can give him what he truly desires…freedom.
But with the sins running wild on the streets and causing havoc, inside and outside of school, secrets are reveals and shocking truths are uncovered. It seems Lukas and Jessie’s ancestors are more buddy buddy than they thought, and Jessie may be the key.
Ehrmegherd this book was awesome! Absolutely done in Jus Accardo style, Darker Days is riddled with humor and full of action. The characters are ones that readers will instantly fall in love with, and Lukas has instantly become one of my top 5 book boyfriends. Ohhhh men of the 1800’s. How swoon worthy thou art…
And a tale that incorporates the seven deadly sins? That’s pretty awesome unto itself! The descriptions provided by the author made the read jump off the page. Whether it be the descriptions of the surroundings, the details of the demons, or the telling of the action scenes, everything was perfect, in my honest opinion. With the chapters counting down the time when the box activates, it added to the excitement that was already felt during the read.
Jessie’s character was one that I absolutely loved! She’s head strong, and spunky. Her love for her parents was something that I loved reading about. To see how far she would go to do what needed to be done. I also really enjoyed that no matter how tough she was or acted, there are a couple parts where we see her vulnerable side, which made her seem even more real, which is something I’m positive readers will notice.
Now Lukas…oh Lukas. Chivalry is so not dead when it comes to this hotty. His actions, his words, his sincerity…omg he is the perfect guy. Yes, yes…he has Wrath curled up inside of him waiting to come out and make trouble, but to see how hard he works to keep in control is inspiring.
I recommend Darker Days to fans Jus Accardo’s Denazen series, and those looking for an awesome heroine. Fans of paranormal reads will completely devour Darker Days by Jus Accardo.
Jessie Darker is not your typical teen. Jessie is half demon (thanks to her father), and helps run the family business, Darker Agency. Sure, they help with cases like missing people and confirming infidelity, etc., but they do more than just that. They specialize in the paranormal. Things that go bump in the night, things that you would only find in nightmares…Jessie and her mom are pros when it comes to these sort of things. Think of it like what Angel does, from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, when he started his own spin off and has his own investigation agency. Same gist.
Jessie and her mother end up getting the mother of all cases. Apparently, someone has decided to steal a special box that housed something very unique…the 7 deadly sins. Not only has it been stolen, but some genius has opened the box and these sins have gotten out and are looking for hosts to possess. Not only is that a pretty crazy case, but what’s crazier is the individual who is seeking the assistance of the Darkers to right the wrong that has been done. Enter Lukas Scott, aka Wrath. Yes, THAT Wrath, one of the 7 deadly sins.
Betrayed by a witch over a century ago, Lukas has been trapped in the box with other deadly sins as a human. Lukas needs the help of the Darkers to locate a descendant from the bloodline of the witch that had originally cursed him as she is the only one who can give him what he truly desires…freedom.
But with the sins running wild on the streets and causing havoc, inside and outside of school, secrets are reveals and shocking truths are uncovered. It seems Lukas and Jessie’s ancestors are more buddy buddy than they thought, and Jessie may be the key.
Ehrmegherd this book was awesome! Absolutely done in Jus Accardo style, Darker Days is riddled with humor and full of action. The characters are ones that readers will instantly fall in love with, and Lukas has instantly become one of my top 5 book boyfriends. Ohhhh men of the 1800’s. How swoon worthy thou art…
And a tale that incorporates the seven deadly sins? That’s pretty awesome unto itself! The descriptions provided by the author made the read jump off the page. Whether it be the descriptions of the surroundings, the details of the demons, or the telling of the action scenes, everything was perfect, in my honest opinion. With the chapters counting down the time when the box activates, it added to the excitement that was already felt during the read.
Jessie’s character was one that I absolutely loved! She’s head strong, and spunky. Her love for her parents was something that I loved reading about. To see how far she would go to do what needed to be done. I also really enjoyed that no matter how tough she was or acted, there are a couple parts where we see her vulnerable side, which made her seem even more real, which is something I’m positive readers will notice.
Now Lukas…oh Lukas. Chivalry is so not dead when it comes to this hotty. His actions, his words, his sincerity…omg he is the perfect guy. Yes, yes…he has Wrath curled up inside of him waiting to come out and make trouble, but to see how hard he works to keep in control is inspiring.
I recommend Darker Days to fans Jus Accardo’s Denazen series, and those looking for an awesome heroine. Fans of paranormal reads will completely devour Darker Days by Jus Accardo.
June 10, 2013
4.5 stars
Darker Days is one of those books that pretty much has it all. Originality. Amazing pacing. GREAT characters. An awesome storyline. Excellent weaving of threads like an expert knotter (what?).
It is also what I suspect to be another GREAT first book in an exciting new series.
Ms Accardo, if you spot this review: You rock my socks! Because not only is this book FULL of twists and turns and family secrets, history and mythology (of the religious kind), kick-butt scenes and a whole host of paranormal creatures who are so flambouyantly and vibrantly displayed I could ‘see’ it without even having to close my eyes or squint, as well as one freakin’ fabulous crowd of a full-bodied cast ... it is also jam-packed full of LOL moments and has a HOT GUY who is quite literally ... sin.
Jessie, as MS, is HILARIOUS, to the point I would like to award her with: ‘BEST HOT DUDE REACTION EVER!!!!!!!!!’ award.
Don’t believe me? Here’ take a tiny peek:
“Holy house of hogs getting blasted by the blue birdie brigade ...”
And those little corkers don’t end there. They are dotted throughout and at the daftest at times—often when you need the laugh most.
Not to mention the dude the above statement refers to. Lucas is quite possibly awesome. I found him cute, and charming, and loved the portrayal of his fight against his sin. I thought it was so subtly welded in with the rest of the text, that there wasn’t a single eye roll or neck jarring moment to be had.
My only gripe for these two, which I would be amiss not to mention, is that the ‘feelings’ between them seemed to come a little too quick. I’d have liked a lot more ‘moments’ between them first. Because the willingness to each do what they planned to do for the other at the end seemed to be driven what felt like a very power motivation—yet they’d only known each other a handful of days. So something a little more substantial than her attraction to his hotness in the beginning would have strengthened this—but this is pretty much my only complaint.
Aside from these two, however, we have the supporting cast. Jessie’s friends—great stuff; Jessie’s family—loved mum and dad and all the issues and complications and backstory that came as a result of having been spawned and raised by those two; the funny cop with a crush; the best friend of her mum’s with a lifelong affection; the school friend with flaws; even the dodgy evil baddies, with their attitudes and connection with the sin that had claimed them (where relevant).
And before I go, let me just take a moment to reflect on this new world Ms Accardo has created. Because, to begin, I thought the pacing was a little slower than I expected, but then I fast understood the reading rate was all me. You see, I DO have a tendency to read slower where there is world building to be absorbed, because I hate nothing more than not understanding the scenes the author has created, and so I stepped back, checked myself, and came to the conclusion that the pacing is brilliant.
Oh, and that ending? Yeah, reassures the reader that there is definitely more to come from these characters—and doubly reassures that the next book is going to be a whole ‘nother ride.
I can’t wait.
Once again: kudos, Jus Accardo.
Darker Days is one of those books that pretty much has it all. Originality. Amazing pacing. GREAT characters. An awesome storyline. Excellent weaving of threads like an expert knotter (what?).
It is also what I suspect to be another GREAT first book in an exciting new series.
Ms Accardo, if you spot this review: You rock my socks! Because not only is this book FULL of twists and turns and family secrets, history and mythology (of the religious kind), kick-butt scenes and a whole host of paranormal creatures who are so flambouyantly and vibrantly displayed I could ‘see’ it without even having to close my eyes or squint, as well as one freakin’ fabulous crowd of a full-bodied cast ... it is also jam-packed full of LOL moments and has a HOT GUY who is quite literally ... sin.
Jessie, as MS, is HILARIOUS, to the point I would like to award her with: ‘BEST HOT DUDE REACTION EVER!!!!!!!!!’ award.
Don’t believe me? Here’ take a tiny peek:
“Holy house of hogs getting blasted by the blue birdie brigade ...”
And those little corkers don’t end there. They are dotted throughout and at the daftest at times—often when you need the laugh most.
Not to mention the dude the above statement refers to. Lucas is quite possibly awesome. I found him cute, and charming, and loved the portrayal of his fight against his sin. I thought it was so subtly welded in with the rest of the text, that there wasn’t a single eye roll or neck jarring moment to be had.
My only gripe for these two, which I would be amiss not to mention, is that the ‘feelings’ between them seemed to come a little too quick. I’d have liked a lot more ‘moments’ between them first. Because the willingness to each do what they planned to do for the other at the end seemed to be driven what felt like a very power motivation—yet they’d only known each other a handful of days. So something a little more substantial than her attraction to his hotness in the beginning would have strengthened this—but this is pretty much my only complaint.
Aside from these two, however, we have the supporting cast. Jessie’s friends—great stuff; Jessie’s family—loved mum and dad and all the issues and complications and backstory that came as a result of having been spawned and raised by those two; the funny cop with a crush; the best friend of her mum’s with a lifelong affection; the school friend with flaws; even the dodgy evil baddies, with their attitudes and connection with the sin that had claimed them (where relevant).
And before I go, let me just take a moment to reflect on this new world Ms Accardo has created. Because, to begin, I thought the pacing was a little slower than I expected, but then I fast understood the reading rate was all me. You see, I DO have a tendency to read slower where there is world building to be absorbed, because I hate nothing more than not understanding the scenes the author has created, and so I stepped back, checked myself, and came to the conclusion that the pacing is brilliant.
Oh, and that ending? Yeah, reassures the reader that there is definitely more to come from these characters—and doubly reassures that the next book is going to be a whole ‘nother ride.
I can’t wait.
Once again: kudos, Jus Accardo.
August 12, 2013
Darker Days Review on K-Books
Oh. My. Word! There are no words to explain just how excited I was to get hold of this book. Right from the moment I got an ARC of Touch I have been an enormous fan of Jus Accardo. I just adore all her books. They are just fantastic. When I heard of this new series I couldn't wait to read it. Darker Days is very different form Jus' Denezen series but I just fell in love with this series and adore it just as much, if not more, than the Denezen series.
Jessie has always been different. And she loves it. Being a Darker Jessie has the knowledge and ability to rid the town of their supernatural happenings. But when a gorgeous yet dangerous boy shows up everything is about to change. The Seven Deadly Sins have been released and they only have five days to capture them and put them back in the box. But can Jessie do it when she is falling for one of the Sins?
I love, love, love this book. It is so different from the Denezen series but right from the first page I was completely sucked into this new world. Jus has done it again and wrote an addictive and unputdownable novel that will completely take over you life. I literally could not put it down so make sure you have nothing to do when you pick up this book and it will possess you!
Jessie is such a phenomenal character! I adore her! Right from the start I just loved reading from her point of view. Her narration had me literally laughing out loud most of the way through the book. It made this book have such a refreshing take than most YA novels. A lot of YA heroines are so serious and down all of the time that having this spunky, upbeat character that makes you just laugh so hard all the time is amazing. She is funny, spunks, snarky and totally kick-ass. All the factors that make her a perfect heroine.
Lukas, oh my Lukas. I genuinely fell head over heels in love with him. Who wouldn't love the guy who deep down is the sweetest most loving guy ever but has this angry dark side and a past he wants nothing but to erase. He is deadly... literally! I adore him and he is without a doubt been added ot my collection of book boyfriends!
It's official that no matter what Jus writes I adore! There is nothing this woman can't write that I won't obsess over. She is just phenomenal and Darker Days is no different. It completely possessed you and takes over your life. While The Denezen series is dark and serious that has you heart literally beating out of your chest Darker Days is funny, sexy and down right devilish! I loved every single moment of it and I would recommend it to everyone. It will suck you in from the very first page and will leave you dying to know what's going to happen that you cannot help but race through the book like it's going to diappear. The ending was perfect and left me with the warm and fuzzies. I am dying to know what kind of mischief that Jessie will get into next. This book has everything you could possibly want, action, mischief, humor, romance and a touch of deadly things to come. I adored it!
Oh. My. Word! There are no words to explain just how excited I was to get hold of this book. Right from the moment I got an ARC of Touch I have been an enormous fan of Jus Accardo. I just adore all her books. They are just fantastic. When I heard of this new series I couldn't wait to read it. Darker Days is very different form Jus' Denezen series but I just fell in love with this series and adore it just as much, if not more, than the Denezen series.
Jessie has always been different. And she loves it. Being a Darker Jessie has the knowledge and ability to rid the town of their supernatural happenings. But when a gorgeous yet dangerous boy shows up everything is about to change. The Seven Deadly Sins have been released and they only have five days to capture them and put them back in the box. But can Jessie do it when she is falling for one of the Sins?
I love, love, love this book. It is so different from the Denezen series but right from the first page I was completely sucked into this new world. Jus has done it again and wrote an addictive and unputdownable novel that will completely take over you life. I literally could not put it down so make sure you have nothing to do when you pick up this book and it will possess you!
Jessie is such a phenomenal character! I adore her! Right from the start I just loved reading from her point of view. Her narration had me literally laughing out loud most of the way through the book. It made this book have such a refreshing take than most YA novels. A lot of YA heroines are so serious and down all of the time that having this spunky, upbeat character that makes you just laugh so hard all the time is amazing. She is funny, spunks, snarky and totally kick-ass. All the factors that make her a perfect heroine.
Lukas, oh my Lukas. I genuinely fell head over heels in love with him. Who wouldn't love the guy who deep down is the sweetest most loving guy ever but has this angry dark side and a past he wants nothing but to erase. He is deadly... literally! I adore him and he is without a doubt been added ot my collection of book boyfriends!
It's official that no matter what Jus writes I adore! There is nothing this woman can't write that I won't obsess over. She is just phenomenal and Darker Days is no different. It completely possessed you and takes over your life. While The Denezen series is dark and serious that has you heart literally beating out of your chest Darker Days is funny, sexy and down right devilish! I loved every single moment of it and I would recommend it to everyone. It will suck you in from the very first page and will leave you dying to know what's going to happen that you cannot help but race through the book like it's going to diappear. The ending was perfect and left me with the warm and fuzzies. I am dying to know what kind of mischief that Jessie will get into next. This book has everything you could possibly want, action, mischief, humor, romance and a touch of deadly things to come. I adored it!
June 13, 2013
Review: 4 ½ out of 5 stars
I am a huge fan of Jus Accardo’s Denazen series so I was really eager to get hold of Darker Days, the first book in her Darker Agency series so I did a little happy dance when I found out I had won an ARC copy through Entangled Teen.
Seventeen year-old Jessie Darker is a loveable character, she is confident, witty and full of snarky one-liners that leave you either laughing out loud or shaking your head; she comes across as full of beans and without fear which I really loved – she was a lot of fun. She doesn’t live the life of a normal teen; she works for her mother at the ‘Darker Agency’ where they are hired to do jobs not of the norm, usually dealing with zombies, ghosts etc.
When Lukas Scott arrives at the agency needing their help to locate a box, it was certainly a big ask since the box has been stolen and the contents let out - the seven deadly sins who have taken over human hosts and need to be recaptured within five days or else they’ll wreak havoc. It was interesting finding out Lukas’s connection to the box and the part he played in it all.
Lukas was an interesting character; he was nice and sweet and because of his past (I won’t reveal what it is to avoid spoilers) he was quite the gentleman and treated Jessie with respect and care; I found myself really enjoying their interactions, his reactions to her comments had me giggling.
The romance I feel was too fast too soon, the attraction was immediate and the touchy feely declarations followed very soon after, unfortunately the build-up was missing for me but I did like Jessie and Lukas together, they complimented each other well.
Jus Accardo's writing is descriptive and the setting vivid; the plot was evenly paced and creative - a story about the seven deadly sins is certainly unique and I loved her interpretation and how they were each worked into this wonderful story. The surprises, especially towards the ending had me gaping and eager to know how it would all play out – you could never predict the outcome which I liked, there were twists and turns aplenty.
What I also loved was Jessie’s relationship with her mother, the conversations between them were hilarious and I thought the boundaries her mother set were believable. I also liked her demon father; I am keen to see the role he’ll play in the next installment.
Overall, Darker Days is a perfect start to this wonderfully unique series with a great amount of humour, interesting mythology, detailed world-building and amazing characters who are true to life, I can’t wait to get hold of the next book!
Thank-you kindly to Entangled Teen Publishing for providing me a copy of Darker Days to read and review.
I am a huge fan of Jus Accardo’s Denazen series so I was really eager to get hold of Darker Days, the first book in her Darker Agency series so I did a little happy dance when I found out I had won an ARC copy through Entangled Teen.
Seventeen year-old Jessie Darker is a loveable character, she is confident, witty and full of snarky one-liners that leave you either laughing out loud or shaking your head; she comes across as full of beans and without fear which I really loved – she was a lot of fun. She doesn’t live the life of a normal teen; she works for her mother at the ‘Darker Agency’ where they are hired to do jobs not of the norm, usually dealing with zombies, ghosts etc.
When Lukas Scott arrives at the agency needing their help to locate a box, it was certainly a big ask since the box has been stolen and the contents let out - the seven deadly sins who have taken over human hosts and need to be recaptured within five days or else they’ll wreak havoc. It was interesting finding out Lukas’s connection to the box and the part he played in it all.
Lukas was an interesting character; he was nice and sweet and because of his past (I won’t reveal what it is to avoid spoilers) he was quite the gentleman and treated Jessie with respect and care; I found myself really enjoying their interactions, his reactions to her comments had me giggling.
The romance I feel was too fast too soon, the attraction was immediate and the touchy feely declarations followed very soon after, unfortunately the build-up was missing for me but I did like Jessie and Lukas together, they complimented each other well.
Jus Accardo's writing is descriptive and the setting vivid; the plot was evenly paced and creative - a story about the seven deadly sins is certainly unique and I loved her interpretation and how they were each worked into this wonderful story. The surprises, especially towards the ending had me gaping and eager to know how it would all play out – you could never predict the outcome which I liked, there were twists and turns aplenty.
What I also loved was Jessie’s relationship with her mother, the conversations between them were hilarious and I thought the boundaries her mother set were believable. I also liked her demon father; I am keen to see the role he’ll play in the next installment.
Overall, Darker Days is a perfect start to this wonderfully unique series with a great amount of humour, interesting mythology, detailed world-building and amazing characters who are true to life, I can’t wait to get hold of the next book!
Thank-you kindly to Entangled Teen Publishing for providing me a copy of Darker Days to read and review.
August 29, 2013
Seven Sins. Six innocent people. Five days. Piece of cake...
Jessie and her mom come from a long line of Darker's that take care of paranormal problems. Lukas Scott enters the agency with a big problem. The box full of the seven deadly sins has been opened and released him and six other sins. See wrath was connected to him permanently with a spell. The other six sins have stolen bodies that will die in five dies if they don't recuse them. The box will call them all back so time is of the essence. This was actually kind of confusing to wrap my mind around but Jessie asks lots of questions and eventually I understood the situation.
I loved Lukas as a love interest. He is a hundred or so years older than Jessie but he has been locked away in the box so when he comes out he is really only 18. I often find it creepy when guys that have been around for hundreds of years like teenagers lol but he is a real teenager. Except he isn't exactly caught up on all the new slang and technology. He adapts well but says some very humorous things. Even though he is in this very unfair position attached to a sin he is a good person does the right thing. He wants to be free but doesn't want anyone else to take his place.
Jessie is a snarky teenager that wants more jobs and responsibility in the Darker Agency. Her mom wants to protect her. Of course Jessie doesn't listen and goes after the sins. Her mom yells at her not too and then she goes after them again. This part kind of got annoying and repetitive. They only have five days and it sure didn't seem like her mom was making much progress so you would think she would just go ahead and work with Jessie.
Jessie and Lukas work together and sparks start to fly but it was a good slow build. Jessie feels an instant attraction but their friendship takes some time. They made a good team and find many of the sins who were rather comical. There were a few twists but most of the I did find predictable but it didn't affect my enjoyment. I am actually even more excited for the next book because this one ends with Jessie in a rather interesting job situation. I also loved that it ends with no cliffhanger. The plot and mystery of this one is all wrapped up but still open for the Darker Agency to get plenty of new and exciting cases. Can't wait to see what is next.
---
"It saddens me to bear witness to the decline of the English language."
"My entire life, all I wanted was to find something different. Special. I never would have guessed I'd have to sleep for so long to find it."
"I waited 147 years to find her."
Jessie and her mom come from a long line of Darker's that take care of paranormal problems. Lukas Scott enters the agency with a big problem. The box full of the seven deadly sins has been opened and released him and six other sins. See wrath was connected to him permanently with a spell. The other six sins have stolen bodies that will die in five dies if they don't recuse them. The box will call them all back so time is of the essence. This was actually kind of confusing to wrap my mind around but Jessie asks lots of questions and eventually I understood the situation.
I loved Lukas as a love interest. He is a hundred or so years older than Jessie but he has been locked away in the box so when he comes out he is really only 18. I often find it creepy when guys that have been around for hundreds of years like teenagers lol but he is a real teenager. Except he isn't exactly caught up on all the new slang and technology. He adapts well but says some very humorous things. Even though he is in this very unfair position attached to a sin he is a good person does the right thing. He wants to be free but doesn't want anyone else to take his place.
Jessie is a snarky teenager that wants more jobs and responsibility in the Darker Agency. Her mom wants to protect her. Of course Jessie doesn't listen and goes after the sins. Her mom yells at her not too and then she goes after them again. This part kind of got annoying and repetitive. They only have five days and it sure didn't seem like her mom was making much progress so you would think she would just go ahead and work with Jessie.
Jessie and Lukas work together and sparks start to fly but it was a good slow build. Jessie feels an instant attraction but their friendship takes some time. They made a good team and find many of the sins who were rather comical. There were a few twists but most of the I did find predictable but it didn't affect my enjoyment. I am actually even more excited for the next book because this one ends with Jessie in a rather interesting job situation. I also loved that it ends with no cliffhanger. The plot and mystery of this one is all wrapped up but still open for the Darker Agency to get plenty of new and exciting cases. Can't wait to see what is next.
---
"It saddens me to bear witness to the decline of the English language."
"My entire life, all I wanted was to find something different. Special. I never would have guessed I'd have to sleep for so long to find it."
"I waited 147 years to find her."
July 23, 2013
4*s
review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Darker Days is a great start to a new promising paranormal series by the author of ‘the Denazen series’. The synopsis is very accurate about what to expect from the book – 17 yr old Jessie Darker and her mother Klaire run a PI company that’s run for generations, who not only deal with the usual things a PI would investigate but also cater to the darker side of our world, the supernatural side, think ghosts, possessions… that type of thing. Their latest case doesn’t just bring a hot new client for Jessie, it also brings the seven deadly sins or should I say the box that ‘used’ to contain them…. Because they have escaped and Lucas has just commissioned the Darker Agency to find them and in the process, hopefully helping him. They have five days…. What’s the worst that could happen?
So, I really enjoyed this book, Jus Accardo has a knack of creating snarky, feisty, kick ass female main characters and Jessie definitely hits that spot, she’s everything I love in a character and considering this is only the first book, she can only get better as the series progresses. I liked the whole premise of the book, having an investigations agency that delves into both the normal & paranormal has endless possibilities with a foot into each world there are bound to be collisions. I loved the plot about the box with the seven deadly sins and the way the characters were written to portray those, it was quite unique and definitely grabbed my interest. I also liked how both worlds came together in this and that there are a few types of paranormals that we are introduced to straight away, I like where Jessie fitted into all of this and her family connections too which you will learn a lot about in this. It was a great read though with good pacing, great humour, great plot, a few twists and turns all coming together to make a first book brimming with potential and I will definitely be keeping my eye out for the sequel.
review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Darker Days is a great start to a new promising paranormal series by the author of ‘the Denazen series’. The synopsis is very accurate about what to expect from the book – 17 yr old Jessie Darker and her mother Klaire run a PI company that’s run for generations, who not only deal with the usual things a PI would investigate but also cater to the darker side of our world, the supernatural side, think ghosts, possessions… that type of thing. Their latest case doesn’t just bring a hot new client for Jessie, it also brings the seven deadly sins or should I say the box that ‘used’ to contain them…. Because they have escaped and Lucas has just commissioned the Darker Agency to find them and in the process, hopefully helping him. They have five days…. What’s the worst that could happen?
So, I really enjoyed this book, Jus Accardo has a knack of creating snarky, feisty, kick ass female main characters and Jessie definitely hits that spot, she’s everything I love in a character and considering this is only the first book, she can only get better as the series progresses. I liked the whole premise of the book, having an investigations agency that delves into both the normal & paranormal has endless possibilities with a foot into each world there are bound to be collisions. I loved the plot about the box with the seven deadly sins and the way the characters were written to portray those, it was quite unique and definitely grabbed my interest. I also liked how both worlds came together in this and that there are a few types of paranormals that we are introduced to straight away, I like where Jessie fitted into all of this and her family connections too which you will learn a lot about in this. It was a great read though with good pacing, great humour, great plot, a few twists and turns all coming together to make a first book brimming with potential and I will definitely be keeping my eye out for the sequel.
August 15, 2013
Oh, Jus Accardo, you slay me with your funny characters, clever plots, and impeccable writing. Darker Days is your light and funny paranormal romance that pulls you in and keeps you entertained and engaged all the way until the last page. It was fast-paced and I loved the way she handled the paranormal aspect of the story. I love how she takes what we think we know about paranormals and adds her own clever spin to it.
Jessie is such a funny character. I loved her snark and humor. She has some of the funniest one-liners I’ve read in awhile and I loved her relationship with her mother. She is a bit naive, but she’s tough, strong-willed, compassionate, and determined. Probably the only thing that bugged me about her was how quickly and easily she fell for Lukas. It was a bit too rushed for my taste, but it didn’t bother me that much. I loved being in her head and her inner monologues were downright hilarious.
As Jessie and her family start to find all the Sins, she uncovers a bunch of crazy family secrets and learns that she and her family are a lot more involved in what’s happening than they all originally thought. I think the plot was very well written and all the pieces fell together nicely. There honestly wasn’t a boring part in the whole story and I was kept engaged in the action and what the characters were going through the whole time.
Also, can I please have my own adorable demon corgi?! So hilarious!!
Darker Days is a great beginning to what I’m sure will be an excellent paranormal series. I loved all the characters, the clever twists, and even the sweet romance, towards the end. I’m always blown away with Jus’ books and I think more people need to read them. How can you not love a writer who creates such memorable and vibrant characters, unique and fast-paced plots, and hilarious and entertaining dialogue?! I really enjoyed this one and can’t wait to see where Jus goes with it.
Jessie is such a funny character. I loved her snark and humor. She has some of the funniest one-liners I’ve read in awhile and I loved her relationship with her mother. She is a bit naive, but she’s tough, strong-willed, compassionate, and determined. Probably the only thing that bugged me about her was how quickly and easily she fell for Lukas. It was a bit too rushed for my taste, but it didn’t bother me that much. I loved being in her head and her inner monologues were downright hilarious.
As Jessie and her family start to find all the Sins, she uncovers a bunch of crazy family secrets and learns that she and her family are a lot more involved in what’s happening than they all originally thought. I think the plot was very well written and all the pieces fell together nicely. There honestly wasn’t a boring part in the whole story and I was kept engaged in the action and what the characters were going through the whole time.
Also, can I please have my own adorable demon corgi?! So hilarious!!
Darker Days is a great beginning to what I’m sure will be an excellent paranormal series. I loved all the characters, the clever twists, and even the sweet romance, towards the end. I’m always blown away with Jus’ books and I think more people need to read them. How can you not love a writer who creates such memorable and vibrant characters, unique and fast-paced plots, and hilarious and entertaining dialogue?! I really enjoyed this one and can’t wait to see where Jus goes with it.
Read
July 24, 2013When I got the email telling me I'd been one of the names drawn for Jus Accardo's new PNR series I was super excited. I love her Denezen series so was looking forward to reading this one (even though I'm getting a bit burnt out on series again.)
Fortunately, Darker Days doesn't disappoint. Jessie is a (not so) typical teen who works with her mom in their P.I. firm. While they take on normal cases, such as missing persons, or cheating significants, their specialty is...Otherwordly.
Enter Lukas who turns out to be not only a client but a little other-worldly himself. Tied to Wrath by a wicked, wicked witch, Lukas seeks out the Darkers help in order to put the sins back in the box they've been released from before they end up killing the people they've possessed. Easy enough...except for the surprise twists Accardo throws in along they way.
I really liked the relationship between Jessie and her mom. While there was a more friendly aspect then I would expect of most teen/mom relationships, Mom still retained authority while giving Jessie some autonomy.
Lukas and Jessie are great foils for each other modern day woman vs. Mr. Old-fashioned and was a lot of fun to see their feelings for each other change and grow. There were a couple times I wanted to smack Jessie upside the head for doing stuff even SHE knew was stupid, but she's still a great character and ends up making some tough decisions at great cost to herself.
While I didn't enjoy this as much as Touch and company it was still an enjoyable read and I'm sure to get the next book in the series.
Veronica Mars meets Supernatural in Darker Days, a fun read with a new twist on the paranormal world.
Darker Days releases August 19th.
Fortunately, Darker Days doesn't disappoint. Jessie is a (not so) typical teen who works with her mom in their P.I. firm. While they take on normal cases, such as missing persons, or cheating significants, their specialty is...Otherwordly.
Enter Lukas who turns out to be not only a client but a little other-worldly himself. Tied to Wrath by a wicked, wicked witch, Lukas seeks out the Darkers help in order to put the sins back in the box they've been released from before they end up killing the people they've possessed. Easy enough...except for the surprise twists Accardo throws in along they way.
I really liked the relationship between Jessie and her mom. While there was a more friendly aspect then I would expect of most teen/mom relationships, Mom still retained authority while giving Jessie some autonomy.
Lukas and Jessie are great foils for each other modern day woman vs. Mr. Old-fashioned and was a lot of fun to see their feelings for each other change and grow. There were a couple times I wanted to smack Jessie upside the head for doing stuff even SHE knew was stupid, but she's still a great character and ends up making some tough decisions at great cost to herself.
While I didn't enjoy this as much as Touch and company it was still an enjoyable read and I'm sure to get the next book in the series.
Veronica Mars meets Supernatural in Darker Days, a fun read with a new twist on the paranormal world.
Darker Days releases August 19th.
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