by Diana Peterfreund
Read: August 25 - 27, 2013
Published: October 15, 2013 by Balzer + Bray
Source: BEA - directly from the author. THANK YOU Harper Collins*
Category: Sci-fi, classic retelling, alternate future world, YA
Series: For Darkness Shows The Stars book 2
Find me: Goodreads | Amazon
On the neighboring island of Albion, no one suspects that the Wild Poppy is actually famously frivolous aristocrat Persis Blake. The teenager uses her shallow, socialite trappings to hide her true purpose: her gossipy flutternotes are encrypted plans, her pampered sea mink is genetically engineered for spying, and her well-publicized new romance with handsome Galatean medic Justen Helo… is her most dangerous mission ever.
Though Persis is falling for Justen, she can’t risk showing him her true self, especially once she learns he’s hiding far more than simply his disenchantment with his country’s revolution and his undeniable attraction to the silly socialite he’s pretending to love. His darkest secret could plunge both islands into a new dark age, and Persis realizes that when it comes to Justen Helo, she’s not only risking her heart, she’s risking the world she’s sworn to protect.
In this thrilling adventure inspired by The Scarlet Pimpernel, Diana Peterfreund creates an exquisitely rendered world where nothing is as it seems and two teens with very different pasts fight for a future only they dare to imagine. (From Goodreads)
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Set-up
Persis Blake lives on the island of Albion, which very much resembles the natural beauty and climate of Hawaii. During the day, Persis is a frivolous and fashionable socialite, who has nothing more to do than gossip and host lavish parties. But at night, she is secretly the Wild Poppy, undertaking dangerous missions to free the oppressed people of the neighboring island of Galatea. If you know anything about the French Revolution, when the aristocrats were persecuted and murdered for their excesses, you have a good idea about what is happening on Galatea. Throw in a drug that is being used by the revolutionaries to damage - or Reduce - the aristocrat's brains, and the circumstances on Galatea have become even more dire.
Persis Blake is so good at her facade that very few remember that she used to be the brightest in her class, which is exactly how she wants it. When a handsome Galatea medic, Justin Helo, seeks asylum on the island of Albion, Persis somehow gets roped into pretending that he's her new boyfriend. She's also determined to maintain her socialite cover with him, no matter how much she wants to show him how intelligent she is. Although Justen is upset with his country's revolution, he still has his own secrets and Persis isn't sure she trusts him, even if she may be falling for him.
Persis Blake lives on the island of Albion, which very much resembles the natural beauty and climate of Hawaii. During the day, Persis is a frivolous and fashionable socialite, who has nothing more to do than gossip and host lavish parties. But at night, she is secretly the Wild Poppy, undertaking dangerous missions to free the oppressed people of the neighboring island of Galatea. If you know anything about the French Revolution, when the aristocrats were persecuted and murdered for their excesses, you have a good idea about what is happening on Galatea. Throw in a drug that is being used by the revolutionaries to damage - or Reduce - the aristocrat's brains, and the circumstances on Galatea have become even more dire.
Persis Blake is so good at her facade that very few remember that she used to be the brightest in her class, which is exactly how she wants it. When a handsome Galatea medic, Justin Helo, seeks asylum on the island of Albion, Persis somehow gets roped into pretending that he's her new boyfriend. She's also determined to maintain her socialite cover with him, no matter how much she wants to show him how intelligent she is. Although Justen is upset with his country's revolution, he still has his own secrets and Persis isn't sure she trusts him, even if she may be falling for him.
Thoughts
Why does being a kick butt heroine almost always come with a poor fashion sense? If you're smart and clever and good at taking people out, you can't like pretty dresses and want nice hair (although usually those girls mysteriously have great hair anyway)? I think that's why Persis Blake is such a brilliant heroine. It's clear that she really does enjoy dressing in fine things and is an excellent source for fashion advice. But she's also clever enough to realize that few people think it's possible to like clothes and also plan secret rescue missions at the same time. Not only that but Persis has no problem dressing like a man if the disguise calls for it, and she isn't afraid to her her hands dirty.
Even Justen Helo, the brilliant revolutionary scientist that somehow to both of their bewilderments ends up having to pretend to be Persis' love interest, is almost constantly underestimating her. That's because he doesn't know about her secret life as the Wild Poppy, and only sees the shallow girl she pretends to be. The delicious thing about their romance is that it's very clear to everyone else how compatible they are. Against their better judgement and mutual dislike at times, Justen and Persis start to fall for each other too. I really like the way this romance is set up. Justen is attracted to socialite Persis, but he doesn't think he could ever be with someone as silly as her. But we all know that she's exactly the girl that he wants. Also, for all of you still bemoaning the fact that there wasn't an ounce of kissing in For Darkness Shows the Stars, I am thrilled to say that it factors into this story.
Although Across a Star-Swept Sea is written in third person and follows several voices, it is primarily Persis' book, and I really felt for her throughout this entire story. Because her role as the Wild Poppy must remain hidden behind a careful facade, very few people are able to see the real her. She is also facing some sobering medical issues that are affecting her family, but she's not allowed to share them either. And though she is a girl who is independent, industrious and brighter than most, she lives in a society were women do not have many rights in society. Within this sun drenched island setting filled with beautiful dresses, futuristic technology, secret missions and political intrigue, is a relatable story about one girl who has shouldered a great deal of responsibility.
Love Triangle Factor: None
Across a Star-Swept Sea is the second book in a companion series and I was surprised and delighted by how For Darkness Shows the Stars connected to the story. I really enjoyed the scientific and moral debates between both stories. Where the upper class in For Darkness Shows the Stars have shunned technology, they have embraced it in Across the Star-Swept Sea, both decisions have positives and consequences. This book also has a really fascinating political atmosphere. As a take off of The Scarlet Pimpernel, the revolution happening in Galatea resembles the French Revolution. But with the medical technology present, it is more complex and applicable to our lives in the 21st century.
The biggest trouble I had in reading this book was orienting myself into the world. Learning all the names for the cool gadgets and how they operate was quite confusing at first. I actually think this book would have benefitted from both a map and a glossary. In fact, I looked for one numerous times just in case I missed it. (EDIT: Check HERE to see a map of the layout of Galatea and Albion. Also the prequel The First Star to Fall has a map AND a glossary. Make sure to read them first!) I also thought the momentum at the end of the story slowed down a bit when several characters has lengthy reflection scenes in the form of inner monologues. My favorite by far was Justen's. But I'm not sure they all needed to be so extensive. However, those are really minor set backs. This book is worth the trouble to engage in it, and I thought it was delightful overall.
The biggest trouble I had in reading this book was orienting myself into the world. Learning all the names for the cool gadgets and how they operate was quite confusing at first. I actually think this book would have benefitted from both a map and a glossary. In fact, I looked for one numerous times just in case I missed it. (EDIT: Check HERE to see a map of the layout of Galatea and Albion. Also the prequel The First Star to Fall has a map AND a glossary. Make sure to read them first!) I also thought the momentum at the end of the story slowed down a bit when several characters has lengthy reflection scenes in the form of inner monologues. My favorite by far was Justen's. But I'm not sure they all needed to be so extensive. However, those are really minor set backs. This book is worth the trouble to engage in it, and I thought it was delightful overall.
Cliffhanger Scale: It appears this may be the series conclusion, which is a huge bummer, because I think there's lots more story to tell!
*Received in exchange for an honest review.
Though I wasn't in love with FDStS, I am very intrigued to see this take on The Scarlet Pimpernel especially because I recently read that book. I want to see what similarities I can notice (I also have a soft spot for someone very intelligent playing a fool to trick others.)
ReplyDeleteI actually haven't read The Scarlet Pimpernel! So I'm not a good judge of how it compares. However, I think AaSSS is a more enjoyable book. It's smart, but also a more fun with less angst and longing. Plus the whole deception is such a great plot. I hope you enjoy this one better!
DeleteI am possibly one of the only people who didn't like For Darkness Shows the Stars - at ALL - because it was a terrible re-write of the characters from Persuasion. I loved the world, but where Persuasion had me swooning from the romance, For Darkness Shows the Stars did little but irritate me with its love interest. I haven't read The Scarlet Pimpernel, though, so I wonder if I'll enjoy this one more. It certainly seems promising and I love the creative nature of Peterfreund's novels, so maybe I'll be giving this a try after all. Lovely review, Lauren!(:
ReplyDeleteI am possibly one of the only people who didn't like For Darkness Shows the Stars - at ALL - because it was a terrible re-write of the characters from Persuasion. I loved the world, but where Persuasion had me swooning from the romance, For Darkness Shows the Stars did little but irritate me with its love interest. I haven't read The Scarlet Pimpernel, though, so I wonder if I'll enjoy this one more. It certainly seems promising and I love the creative nature of Peterfreund's novels, so maybe I'll be giving this a try after all. Lovely review, Lauren!(:
Delete*snort* So many kick butt heroines do have a dreadful taste in fashions (just leather? Bustiers? Come on, girls. Have some panache!). I like the Wild Poppy-Scarlet Pimpernel connection (god, it's been a while since I read that one) and am looking forward to rejoining this world.
ReplyDeleteThere is definitely a badass heroine "look" out there! As a big UF reader, I'm sure you've seen it over and over again. I like that Persis definitely breaks that mold while also managing to be cleverer than everyone else. I actually haven't read The Scarlet Pimpernel, so I can't compare them. But on its own this book is pretty fantastic. I hope you enjoy it as well!
DeleteSo excited for this one Lauren! I couldn't have loved For Darkness Shows the Stars any more if I'd tried, so I'm thrilled to hear this one relates so well. It took me a little while to get oriented to FDStS, so it's not altogether surprising for me that I might have the same trouble with this book, maybe the finished copy will have that much needed map and glossary? Beautiful review as per ususal, can't wait to compare notes when I read it next week!
ReplyDeleteI loved FDSS as well! And I thought AaSSS was even BETTER. It was a bit more fun and less heavy, although still a lot of complex themes and I wouldn't call it light. Just not so much of the angsty tension between the couple. It definitely took me a while to reorient back into this world, especially because this island is set up differently than where Elliot and Kai lived. I did okay without the map or glossary in this one, but I think the story would have read quicker in the beginning with one present. But if you did fine with FDSS you'll have no trouble with this one - in fact, it will probably be easier because you already know some of the history of the world. Can't wait to discuss when you're able to read this one!
DeleteHi, Lauren! Thank you for reading and tweeting me your review. I am also disappointed by the lack of a map in the book. I campaigned hard for the inclusion of a map, but the publisher is not accustomed to putting maps in SF books (as opposed to epic fantasy). I think that's a dumb convention -- after all, wouldn't we all have loved a map of Panem in The Hunger Games?
ReplyDeleteI even offered to pay for it myself, but it was a no go. So I designed one myself, and you can find it on my website. You can also find the map (and a glossary) in the online prequel, THE FIRST STAR TO FALL.
http://www.dianapeterfreund.com/finding-new-pacifica/
Actually, your comment makes me think there may be value in having the map printed up on postcards to give out at signings and such. What do you think?
Thanks for stopping by my review! And of course, endless thank yous for writing the book for us to read :).
DeleteThat's definitely interesting reasoning you were given about why your story couldn't have a map. I think anything with a unique or complex world building could benefit from a map. Not just High Fantasy. Actually, I would appreciate a map in any book I read. But I'm such a visual person. THANK YOU For the map link. I didn't even think to check online, and I always miss them in e-books. I'll add a mention of it in my review.
YES YES! DO make post cards. I think people will be clamoring to get them. When I went to Elizabeth Fama's signing for MONSTROUS BEAUTY she handed out fantastic and detailed maps created by her son and it made my reading experience so much better. That book is historical/contemporary fantasy set in Plymouth, Mass so even more of a known place.
Hopefully I can get a map at one of your events!
Oh man, I love maps too! That would have been great. Maybe someday someone will make one for the series. I'm definitely looking forward to this and seeing how it connects with for the Darkness Shows the Stars. :)
ReplyDeleteThe connection is lots of fun! I wasn't expecting it to be there as much as it was, which was a very pleasant surprise.
DeleteI don't know if you saw Diana Peterfreund's comment right above yours, but you can find a map of the island online at http://www.dianapeterfreund.com/finding-new-pacifica/ and in the prequel to this book.
I hope that you really enjoy ACROSS A STAR-SWEPT SEA.
Ah, man, I was just perusing your review, just to get a feel for how much you enjoyed it, and then I read this: "for all of you still bemoaning the fact that there wasn't an ounce of kissing in For Darkness Shows the Stars, I am thrilled to say that it factors into this story." Um, what? I was planning to read FDStS very soon to prepare for AaSSS, and I was super-excited because I'd heard it was wonderful, but NO KISSING? *sigh* I guess a book doesn't *have* to have kissing to be good. But it helps. :)
ReplyDeleteOH NO! I'm so sorry. I should have put a disclaimer on my review. Though now, hopefully, you won't be disappointed if you don't find kissing in there. A great emotional story of longing though. Have you read Persuasion? It's my favorite Austen I think. And Austen doesn't have kissing either. Both books in the series are fantastic, and I hope that you really love them!! I do feel terrible though :(.
DeleteUh oh, the plethora of gadgets might throw me since that's the reason I sometimes have trouble with fantasy--there are too many details to remember and my puny brain can't handle them, hah. BUT your love for this series is very persuasive. I have to give the first book a try sometime soon.
ReplyDeleteWendy @ The Midnight Garden
Yes. It is a bit tricky to orient into this book. Although it is technically a scifi book that features our world in the future, the story reads like high fantasy in many ways with the political/historical information and medical/technological advances. However, I do think these books are fantastic once you sort out the beginning. Also, I don't know if you saw Peterfreund's comment a few above yours but there is a map and a glossary in the prequel to Across a Star-Swept Sea, that should help you with the main book. I don't know if one exists for For Darkness Shows the Stars, though that book is supposedly located on New Zealand.
DeleteI didn't love the first book, it was a bit slow paced for me, so I wasn't intending on reading this one. I do have to admit that I'm more curious now, after reading your review. So it's possible I'll reconsider and give this one a shot.
ReplyDeleteOnce you get oriented in the world, this one is a bit more fun and I think fast paced than the first. There's also a lot more action. I actually think you'll like it better!
DeleteOh! This series really does sound fantastic --wholly imaginative! I really love exploring gender reversal themes in books. Because the protagonist is a bit of a fashionista who also wears men's clothing when a secret mission arises is all the more alluring. Lately, I've been wanting to read something with a bit of adventure. I think I'm overdue for one. I also really like the idea of science vs. morality as a theme. And the slow-burning romance? Is it the type to make you giddy? If so, I'm sold! I'll have to start this series soon. :)
ReplyDeleteI was impressed with Peterfreund's world-building in For Darkness Shows the Stars, if not the story itself. For some reason the fact that it retold Persuasion didn't sit well with me (also, I'm sure I ended up being super nitpicky about it, because generally I love retellings). I love maps and glossaries, so I'll definitely check those out first. This is supposed to be a gender-swapped The Scarlet Pimpernel, right? If so, that's awesome. This sounds like such an inventive story and I do want to read it. I am torn, though, since I haven't read The Scarlet Pimpernel first. I like reading the originals and being familiar with them before reading retellings, but at the same time that sometimes makes it difficult for me to appreciate the retelling. Hmm, I'll have to look into the original story and see what I want to do here. But this will definitely be read eventually. :)
ReplyDeleteYou are so very right about awesome heroines with poor fashion sense! It's probably to avoid making them seem superficial, but to me it makes them look careless.
ReplyDeleteThe second you mentoned fascinating political atmosphere, I was convinced. I can never resist these stories, even if they are retellings.
Lovely review, Lauren.
I'm in love with the fact that the main character being sensible with her clothes! And not afraid to get down and dirty! The romance sounds GREAT. I love that sort of dynamic. And kissing doesn't hurt either ;) I love going into such a different world, but I agree that they probably should have a glossary or map or something! Can't wait to read this one, love the review, Lauren.
ReplyDeleteDo I need to read For Darkness Shows the Stars to read this one? I really want to read it!
ReplyDeleteI'm still a bit torn about this book. I love the story--love the science fiction aspects and love that it is based on The Scarlet Pimpernel (I love anything with a French Revolution storyline!) and I think the study on class and gender roles in this book is very interesting. But I do struggle with Peterfreund's characters. I just don't feel as drawn to them as I would like. I think they are interesting--but for some reason there is a disconnect. I noticed it with For Darkness Shows the Stars and thought maybe it was a one time thing. But it happened with this book too. And then there is the whole ending thing we talked about--I just can't believe this is the final book in the "series." So much left unsaid!! It bums me out :(
ReplyDeleteOh, Lauren, I'm really excited to read this one! I'm glad you noted that FDStS ties into this one and the world because I'm going to try and plan it so that I re-read Darkness before this one is released. Some books are just better if you re-read and get familiar with the world again. I'm also SO GLAD you noted the maps and glossary thing now that I've seen Peterfreund's comment - I will absolutely be bookmarking this post so I'll remember to snag both items before reading! I love that she was able to point you to both - saves me the frustration of feeling the same way when I read it!
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