Just finished reading THE MADNESS UNDERNEATH by Maureen Johnson, the second in the SHADES OF LONDON series, while simultaneously reading about three other novels. I found this one to be a quick and easy read, mostly because of the pacing of the narrative voice. I felt like Rory, the main character, really kind of swept you along in what was probably only a couple of weeks anyways.
THE MADNESS UNDERNEATH deals with the aftermath of Rory finding out that she has the Sight and being stabbed by a ghost. It really focuses on the psychological aspect of that, which was a total relief for me. Because of this the book had a different vibe while maintaining the tone of the first book, which was still a really great thing. I was so glad Maureen Johnson did this because in so many other books where the characters are kind of bombarded with this new information (like ghosts exist and are trying to kill them, or vampires have been stalking them, or whatever), it often happens that the characters just accept it and move on, leaving me - the reader - feel cheated. Now, I know in order for the story to progress there needs to be a level of acceptance from the character. I totally get that. But I think the way Maureen presents it is way more realistic. Yes, Rory accepts that ghosts are real. Yes, Rory was almost murdered by one. But you still find Rory trying to wrap her head around the entire thing as a whole, and being very overwhelmed by the circumstances.
I won't tell you what happens in the ending, but it nearly broke my heart. My god. A lot of people were freaking out about it (and while I freaked out a little, I was expecting something a little more based on how much they were freaking out. Do I have a different copy or something?). Anyways, while I WAS expecting something with a bit more of a bang, I was still happy with the ending. After all, it leads into the next book, so it can't conclude with too big of an explosive.
SPOILER ALERT: I AM mad at what happened to Stephen though. I'm just saying.
For those who want to know, what I am currently reading at the same time:
THE FORGOTTEN GARDEN by Kate Morton
CITY OF BONES by Cassandra Clare (I know, I know. A little late on the uptake. I missed the bandwagon.)
And I will be starting...DREAMLESS by Josephine Angelini, but I'm terrified about what will happen with Jason and Helen. I JUST WANT THEM TO BE TOGETHER!!! D:
Stay tuned. :)
-Victoria
