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Book Review of When the Bones Sing 

By  BookishBearx

When the Bones Sing: A Haunting, Atmospheric Journey

When I first stumbled upon When the Bones Sing by Author’s Name, I was mesmerized by the tagline: a tale steeped in supernatural whispers amidst the eerie backdrop of Lucifer’s Creek, Arkansas. As a lover of atmospheric narratives that skillfully blend mystery with a dash of magic, I knew I had to dive in. I didn’t quite know what to expect, but this book had me intrigued from the get-go.

The story follows seventeen-year-old Dovie, who hails from a lineage of women capable of hearing the "songs of the dead." The premise drew me in, promising a rich exploration of magic interwoven with local superstition and societal biases. Dovie is a relatable teen, navigating a world where emotions run high and where the veil between the living and the dead starts to blur. Unfortunately, her constant insistence on “not believing in magic" becomes a bit of a broken record after a while. While it initially painted her as a realistic character, the repetition detracted from the tension of her unraveling mystery.

The vibe of the Ozark Mountains is palpable; the book’s atmosphere shines as its most robust element. I could practically smell the humidity and feel the weight of impending dread as Dovie navigates the dark forests. This immersive setting adds an undeniable richness that elevates the story, even when the plot itself falters. The forest feels like a character in its own right, suffused with danger and secrets. As I read, I was constantly reminded of the omnipresent Ozark howler, lurking in the shadows—a wonderfully ominous presence.

Dovie’s best friend Lo was by far my favorite character, albeit he doesn’t get the depth he deserves. His haunted nature piqued my curiosity, and I wished for more of his backstory. The secondary characters, especially the Christian brother who embodies typical stereotypes, felt a bit over-emphasized, almost as if they were part of a smokescreen rather than integral pieces of the narrative puzzle. Despite this, I appreciated how his role tethered to real-world events and perspectives, grounding the supernatural elements in our modern society.

As for the mystery itself, while it had promise, it ultimately veered into predictability. Dovie only grasps the most significant questions when someone nudges her, which struck me as a tad too fitting for her teenage mindset. The climax felt a bit underwhelming, a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the darker corners of the plot.

One significant drawback was the inclusion of a love triangle that seemed forced and unnecessary. In the midst of unraveling a web of disappearances, prioritizing romantic entanglements felt misplaced. I often found myself asking, “Why this distraction, when life-and-death stakes are at play?” It felt like one more loop in Dovie’s repetitive thoughts rather than a meaningful subplot.

Yet, the epilogue offered a satisfying conclusion, tying together loose ends that I appreciated, even within the scope of an ARC that didn’t include the author’s notes. I yearned for more insight into the local lore and its supernatural significance, framing the book in a broader context.

In summary, When the Bones Sing by Author’s Name has an enticing premise and a compelling start but occasionally meanders into clichéd territory. It’s a unique blend of YA mystery, with a rich, immersive atmosphere that many readers will adore. I’d recommend this book to those who enjoy mystical elements peppered with drama, although it may not resonate with purists seeking a polished mystery. This reading experience, while flawed, left me reflecting on the weight of our decisions and the echoes of the past—an engaging reminder that stories often linger long after the pages are turned.

Thank you, NetGalley and G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, for the eARC. As always, my thoughts are entirely my own! #NetGalley #WhenTheBonesSing

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