A review for Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey

Posted by Donna
Published Date: July 9th, 2011
Finished Date: July 14th, 2011
Source: For Review from Bloomsbury
Format: Paperback
Pages: 352
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The Blurb from Goodreads: Violet Willoughby doesn't believe in ghosts. But they believe in her. After spending years participating in her mother's elaborate ruse as a fraudulent medium, Violet is about as skeptical as they come in all matters supernatural. Now that she is being visited by a very persistent ghost, one who suffered a violent death, Violet can no longer ignore her unique ability. She must figure out what this ghost is trying to communicate, and quickly because the killer is still on the loose.

Afraid of ruining her chance to escape her mother's scheming through an advantageous marriage, Violet must keep her ability secret. The only person who can help her is Colin, a friend she's known since childhood, and whom she has grown to love. He understands the true Violet, but helping her on this path means they might never be together. Can Violet find a way to help this ghost without ruining her own chance at a future free of lies?
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The Review: I’ve always been a fan of Alyxandra Harvey’s work ever since reading her other series ‘The Drake Chronicles’, so when I heard she was bringing out a new book, I was thrilled. Admittedly, when I started this book I was a little put off by the fact that it’s in past tense but did Alyxandra disappoint? OF COURSE SHE DOESN’T! 

This story follows Violet, a young girl who doesn’t believe in ghosts and who lives with her mother and friend in late 1800’s. Violet spends her days helping her mother, con people into believing she can see dead people in order to put food on the table. What Violet doesn’t expect to see is a dead person for real and nonetheless, a dead person who has suffered a horrible death. It’s now Violet’s journey to uncover the murderer……because the killer is still on the loose. 

From page one you’re swept into a gothic, chilling and frightening story. Alyxandra has created a new world that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. Her detailed description’s transport you into the book and makes you imagine you are walking in the characters shoes. You can tell by reading this how much work has gone into the story, the different era is captured brilliantly and the minor details are very much alive in this book. This book shows you have truly talented Alyxandra really is. 

The characters were completely loveable. Violet is a strong minded girl that can put up with a lot and Colin, a best friend any girl could dream of. Colin and Violet’s romance was steadily played out and it didn’t feel forced. It was nice to be able to go on their journey with them and watch their love grow. Violet’s mother, celeste was a love-hate character for me. She was always so cold but she tried to do right by her daughter by marrying her off but you can’t help feel that she’s doing that just so she doesn’t have to take care of her anymore. Like I said, love-hate character. 

Overall, Haunting Violet is a fresh and exciting new book full of mystery, murder, romance with the supernatural edge to give the book that extra bit of awesomeness. Anyone who loved Alxyandra’s previous work, I’m sure you’ll love this too. Highly recommendation for young adults.