Wow, I only reserve one stars for books I couldn't finish. I DID finish this because there was a plot and I was wondering where this was going, but I was honestly, VERY worked up by the time I finished this novel, and not in a good way.
Admittedly, I didn't read book one. However, this is supposedly a stand alone, so I figured it wouldn't be bad not to. That isn't my problem. My problem is I found the synopsis and what ends up going on in the novel itself are COMPLETELY misleading.
I am trying not to give away anything here as I don't wish to spoil it for those who wish to read it, but honestly, I felt like the first half the book was only a set up for the next book in the series where more will happen to Aria (IF that's what will happen). The second half I felt no one even remembered, or felt anything for all Aria had tried to do for anyone.
I was very worked up and upset I even bothered finishing the book.
On positive notes - that kept me reading the book - was that there was a plot, the writing was well-done, and you keep hoping it is NOT going to end like you think it's going to.
So I'm sorry to say, 2 stars. I doubt I'll bother with book one or three in this series.