Book Review: Darkness and Grace by Kathryn Schleich

"Love isn’t always easy. It takes work.”

--Kathryn Schleich, Darkness and Grace

The gripping story of Darkness and Grace explores the age-old conflict between good and evil as well as the deadly undercurrent that lurks behind the seeming tranquility of a close-knit Midwestern family.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

Even the strongest of families aren’t immune to malice, betrayal, and deceit. Supportive, loving, and affluent, the Pierson family is delighted to celebrate the marriage of sensitive middle son Paul Pierson and his wife, Pamela. Everyone rejoices that Paul has finally recovered from the tragic loss of his beloved first wife and looks forward to Paul and Pamela’s new life together. But just as family members are celebrating his happiness, they start noticing that his beautiful bride may not be what she seems.

As the strain between siblings and spouses worsens, the Piersons discover that neither their money nor their considerable influence can keep the family safe from one woman’s malicious intent. When the true nature of this family member is revealed, each of the Piersons is confronted with the quandary of human conduct and moral responsibility.

My reaction to this novel...

Despite not knowing the author, I still found the book to be enjoyable. I truly enjoyed reading and discovering the works of new authors. I truly enjoy how this book's cover was designed. I had the impression that I was reading a YA book. It was magnificent. If I see this one at a bookstore, it will surely catch my attention and I'll probably buy it.

I've read that they said that this book is a domestic thriller based on real events. To be honest, when I read thriller books, my expectations are generally higher. With this one, I was prepared for some unforeseen turns and twists. I thus began it immediately away.

The prelude was excellent. As it progressed, I grew to like it, which convinced me that the book was a thriller. In the days that followed, I kept reading it until I had finished it. To be honest, Pamela was the major reason I felt irritated. At first, their family's interference in the affairs of the newlyweds irritated me, but that is simply the way they are. Just that I could see where Pamela was coming from; maybe she felt smothered, but it isn't a good enough reason to act in that way, especially since her husband and his family treated her like one of their own. In my opinion, she is a monster. I find her irritating. She humiliated the Pierson family as a result of her actions, and she also put them through hardship in order to obtain her goal. Her wicked actions and many efforts to get away with them were unacceptable for a normal person. The tale wasn't a thriller in my opinion, but I did think it was more of a family drama, which is not unusual but is still quite unpleasant and messy. The plot was quite distressing.

I read the book quickly, but it was challenging to read since I kept feeling annoyed and wanted to skip a few chapters. Nevertheless, I tried to finish it. I appreciated and cherished their family's support for one another because I know Paul will be devastated if his family is not loving, supportive, and caring. They are lucky to have each other. I also wanted to commend the author for having the courage to speak and post a story that truly happened to them.

Despite my sincere gratitude for the chance to read this book, I just feel that I am not the suitable reader for it. I still wanted to recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about real-life family tragedies, though.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐(3/5)