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Waterton #2
The Dark Divide
Waterton is a town with dark secrets, and after a summer of murder and mayhem, American ex-pat, Rich Evans, knows exactly how far people will go to hide them. Jobless after the fiery destruction of the hotel he once managed, Rich is charged with arson. Only one person, local mechanic Louise "Lou" Newman, believes in his innocence. But even Lou's love and support can't dispel the darkness that's spreading through the community. Dead animals appear on porches, strangers threaten the safety of the locals, and a fingerprint from the fire is linked to a decades-old murder.
The lonely border town has a new danger: a murderer willing to do anything to protect a web of secrets that links them to the arson.
As the risk of jail or death increases, Rich turns to Lou for guidance and she finds herself in an impossible position. Lou has her own secrets! Does she protect the border town where she grew up, or side with the man she loves... even if it means she can never tell him the truth about herself?
The lonely border town has a new danger: a murderer willing to do anything to protect a web of secrets that links them to the arson.
As the risk of jail or death increases, Rich turns to Lou for guidance and she finds herself in an impossible position. Lou has her own secrets! Does she protect the border town where she grew up, or side with the man she loves... even if it means she can never tell him the truth about herself?
339 pages, Paperback
First published April 10, 2018
2 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 22, 2018
Beware spoilers ahead!
Trigger warning: Animal deaths and gruesome murders.
I received this Arc via the author in exchange for an honest review and in participation of the Sunday Street Team. I was pretty excited to hear that Edge of Wild was getting a sequel. I didn't hesitate to participate in the street team. I am glad to say that I liked The Dark Divide!
The Dark Divide begins with a prologue set in 1970 in Ohio. A student who was protesting for the Vietnam war is shot by a police officer. In the first chapter readers are told that Rich is going on trial for his hotel, which was burned to the ground in Edge of Wild. After a few chapters in it is revealed that the trial will proceed.
On Sadie and Jim's (police officers) end they receive word from the Ohio police department that the unidentifiable finger print from the hotel break-in is linked to the prologue murder. After that student was murdered a fellow classmate at the time shot the police officer. And no one has been able to find the person. Waterton has yet another murderer in their midst.
The Dark Divide was a fun and twisty book! It is written in third person from various different characters' points of views. There are emails and police documents. Also flashback's and Lou's visions. The Dark Divide takes place in 1999.
The trial was a lot of fun to read about! I was desperately awaiting an answer. I enjoyed Rich's lawyer and long time friend Stu. He actually knew his stuff. Lou also played a big part in the trial. As did some of the townspeople.
Lou and Rich's conflict's about their relationship was well done! Lou has to try and mentally prepare herself to tell Rich some truths about herself. I enjoyed reading about Lou's character development. And when Lou did tell Rich the truth, at first he was baffled. But then came around to support her.
Rich was under quite a bit of stress throughout the book. Which made it frustrating to read about his character. Although I did grow to like him towards the end. His character development was suburb!
The townspeople were definitely better in this installment. They were actually much nicer towards Rich and way more welcoming! Rich developed some friendships with a few of them. Which was nice to read about.
The mystery wasn't as strong as it was in Edge of Wild. Nonetheless it was well done and pretty twisty. And yet again completely unpredictable. Some of the questions in Edge of Wild are answered. Jeff Chan makes an appearance.
There is a new character that comes in, which rocks the townspeople's relationships. His name is Alistair a movie maker who comes to Waterton searching for the 'truth'. Alistair's character does play a huge role in Lou's story arc and character development.
The backstory regarding Lou's visions was fun to read about. Alistair also has visions and the two may have known each other in an another life. The mythology behind it and Lou's mother was really well done! I also liked how their is an expansion regarding Lou's abilities. You find out that she can do much more than in Edge of Wild.
Another towns-person comes in (was on vacation) Levi. He has a lot of hostility towards Rich and Alistair. Levi has some unfinished history regarding Lou's mother. He was somewhere in between frustrating and interesting to read about.
I really appreciated that the Japanese internment camps were brought up! Stone did an excellent job bringing it up and making it apart of the story. It was important to some characters' arcs.
I had a few problems with it. The Dark Divide suffered a bit of middle book syndrome. It wasn't as strong as Edge of Wild. I really don't know what to make off the big reveal about Susan Varley. It was definitely not as ground breaking as the reveals in Edge of Wild. Alistair was utterly frustrating to read about! While his point of view was well done, I really really didn't like him.
Overall I liked The Dark Divide. I will definitely be reading the last book. I highly recommend it.
Trigger warning: Animal deaths and gruesome murders.
I received this Arc via the author in exchange for an honest review and in participation of the Sunday Street Team. I was pretty excited to hear that Edge of Wild was getting a sequel. I didn't hesitate to participate in the street team. I am glad to say that I liked The Dark Divide!
The Dark Divide begins with a prologue set in 1970 in Ohio. A student who was protesting for the Vietnam war is shot by a police officer. In the first chapter readers are told that Rich is going on trial for his hotel, which was burned to the ground in Edge of Wild. After a few chapters in it is revealed that the trial will proceed.
On Sadie and Jim's (police officers) end they receive word from the Ohio police department that the unidentifiable finger print from the hotel break-in is linked to the prologue murder. After that student was murdered a fellow classmate at the time shot the police officer. And no one has been able to find the person. Waterton has yet another murderer in their midst.
The Dark Divide was a fun and twisty book! It is written in third person from various different characters' points of views. There are emails and police documents. Also flashback's and Lou's visions. The Dark Divide takes place in 1999.
The trial was a lot of fun to read about! I was desperately awaiting an answer. I enjoyed Rich's lawyer and long time friend Stu. He actually knew his stuff. Lou also played a big part in the trial. As did some of the townspeople.
Lou and Rich's conflict's about their relationship was well done! Lou has to try and mentally prepare herself to tell Rich some truths about herself. I enjoyed reading about Lou's character development. And when Lou did tell Rich the truth, at first he was baffled. But then came around to support her.
Rich was under quite a bit of stress throughout the book. Which made it frustrating to read about his character. Although I did grow to like him towards the end. His character development was suburb!
The townspeople were definitely better in this installment. They were actually much nicer towards Rich and way more welcoming! Rich developed some friendships with a few of them. Which was nice to read about.
The mystery wasn't as strong as it was in Edge of Wild. Nonetheless it was well done and pretty twisty. And yet again completely unpredictable. Some of the questions in Edge of Wild are answered. Jeff Chan makes an appearance.
There is a new character that comes in, which rocks the townspeople's relationships. His name is Alistair a movie maker who comes to Waterton searching for the 'truth'. Alistair's character does play a huge role in Lou's story arc and character development.
The backstory regarding Lou's visions was fun to read about. Alistair also has visions and the two may have known each other in an another life. The mythology behind it and Lou's mother was really well done! I also liked how their is an expansion regarding Lou's abilities. You find out that she can do much more than in Edge of Wild.
Another towns-person comes in (was on vacation) Levi. He has a lot of hostility towards Rich and Alistair. Levi has some unfinished history regarding Lou's mother. He was somewhere in between frustrating and interesting to read about.
I really appreciated that the Japanese internment camps were brought up! Stone did an excellent job bringing it up and making it apart of the story. It was important to some characters' arcs.
I had a few problems with it. The Dark Divide suffered a bit of middle book syndrome. It wasn't as strong as Edge of Wild. I really don't know what to make off the big reveal about Susan Varley. It was definitely not as ground breaking as the reveals in Edge of Wild. Alistair was utterly frustrating to read about! While his point of view was well done, I really really didn't like him.
Overall I liked The Dark Divide. I will definitely be reading the last book. I highly recommend it.
February 11, 2018
In her second novel in the Tagatha trilogy, D.K. Stone writes with passion to create a tangled web of engaging characters entwined with each other in a masquerade of truth, lies, promises and destiny. The Dark Divide is a riveting novel, revealing deeply buried secrets designed to protect people from their past and their future. Suspenseful and jarring, this novel gives the reader pause for thought about what extent we go to in order to protect and honour the memory of those we have loved and lost.
March 16, 2018
Reading this book was like getting reacquainted with old friends. I was able to return to Waterton and immerse myself in the mysteries and quirks of the small town. There are high stakes throughout the novel for all the major and several minor characters. This makes for a riveting read—even when it seems like the events have been resolved. Ms. Stone has once again created a world that gives me “all the feels.”
February 27, 2018
The Dark Divide is an amazing read. I loved the first book in this series, Edge of Wild, and didn't think it could get any better, well it did. I started Dark Divide and didn't put it down until I was finished. The story pulls you in right from the very beginning and doesn't let go. The secrets revealed will surprise and sometimes shock you. I love a book that stays with you long after you put it down and The Dark Divide definitely does that. I find myself thinking of the characters and what I would do in similar circumstances, what would I be willing to do to protect a loved one?
The Dark Divide is simply amazing! I am so happy the series is a trilogy. I can hardly wait for the story to continue...
The Dark Divide is simply amazing! I am so happy the series is a trilogy. I can hardly wait for the story to continue...
April 16, 2018
The Dark Divide picks up shortly after the end of Edge of Wild. The ramifications of the destruction of the hotel, the Whitewater, are rippling through town. Evidence is mounting against Rich, Lou is struggling to defend him against the charge as well as the townsfolk, and the town itself is facing trouble from more than one front. Will it be possible for anyone to find a satisfactory, if not happy, ending?
Danika drops a bombshell early on: there's evidence of an accomplice to Colton, the villain of Edge of Wild. What won't this person to protect their secret, not only in connection with the arson that killed a local girl, but of a decades old cold case murder that crosses the border of the U.S.?
The first third of the book reintroduces the reader to the main cast, Rich and Lou, as well as the other residents of Waterton and a few law enforcement related people, such as Rich's friend Stu, now his lawyer.
There's also Alistair, a documentarian looking into draft evaders that may have crossed the border into Waterton during the Vietnam War. The sheer annoyance I felt toward his character reminded me of Rich in the first book before things turned around. Alistair is pushy and nosy, bordering on mean to the residents and these are not people that take well to outsiders, much less inquisitive Hollywood filmmaker types. His presence, in addition to the legal proceedings against Rich, made for a tense, creepy atmosphere. Some of the creepiness stemmed from his overall despicable, forceful personality, but also from the fact that he has a connection with Lou that was completely unexpected.
Rich started out a bit of an ass in the last book and gained in personal standing by the end. In The Dark Divide, I feel like his personality was reset a bit. He was asking things of Lou that he knew she wasn't comfortable with, such as divulging a lot of her past or abandoning her job (which a lot of the locals depend on - gas/mechanic/supply runs) to accompany him to the nearby town for his arson trial. While I understand how that must have felt for him, he was not supportive of Lou and how important her life and routine were. There was some growth between them, but overall, I ended up caring less for Rich than when we left off the previous story and I don't think he really deserved Lou.
Lou had more than anyone to deal with since the conclusion of the first book. There's her mysterious, supernatural ability with future telling components as well as past life memories that she can barely explain to herself much less anyone else. There's the relationship she formed with Rich, one that developed quickly over the summer. Add to this what her role in Rich's trial might be and you'll realize how much pressure everything put into her life. How she is able to deal with even a tiny bit is a miracle.
The townsfolk were just as closeted as in Edge of Wild, keeping their secrets close to the vest and making it impossible to figure out who was on what side, who was hiding something potentially explosive, and so forth. It was a little annoying, but considering what they were protecting, I can't say that I blame them for being wary not only of Alistair and his "documentary", but of the consequences of the fire in the previous book that Rich is facing charges for.
Danika crafted another great mystery that may not have had as much of an excitement factor as it's predecessor, but was an enjoyable read nonetheless.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Danika drops a bombshell early on: there's evidence of an accomplice to Colton, the villain of Edge of Wild. What won't this person to protect their secret, not only in connection with the arson that killed a local girl, but of a decades old cold case murder that crosses the border of the U.S.?
The first third of the book reintroduces the reader to the main cast, Rich and Lou, as well as the other residents of Waterton and a few law enforcement related people, such as Rich's friend Stu, now his lawyer.
There's also Alistair, a documentarian looking into draft evaders that may have crossed the border into Waterton during the Vietnam War. The sheer annoyance I felt toward his character reminded me of Rich in the first book before things turned around. Alistair is pushy and nosy, bordering on mean to the residents and these are not people that take well to outsiders, much less inquisitive Hollywood filmmaker types. His presence, in addition to the legal proceedings against Rich, made for a tense, creepy atmosphere. Some of the creepiness stemmed from his overall despicable, forceful personality, but also from the fact that he has a connection with Lou that was completely unexpected.
Rich started out a bit of an ass in the last book and gained in personal standing by the end. In The Dark Divide, I feel like his personality was reset a bit. He was asking things of Lou that he knew she wasn't comfortable with, such as divulging a lot of her past or abandoning her job (which a lot of the locals depend on - gas/mechanic/supply runs) to accompany him to the nearby town for his arson trial. While I understand how that must have felt for him, he was not supportive of Lou and how important her life and routine were. There was some growth between them, but overall, I ended up caring less for Rich than when we left off the previous story and I don't think he really deserved Lou.
Lou had more than anyone to deal with since the conclusion of the first book. There's her mysterious, supernatural ability with future telling components as well as past life memories that she can barely explain to herself much less anyone else. There's the relationship she formed with Rich, one that developed quickly over the summer. Add to this what her role in Rich's trial might be and you'll realize how much pressure everything put into her life. How she is able to deal with even a tiny bit is a miracle.
The townsfolk were just as closeted as in Edge of Wild, keeping their secrets close to the vest and making it impossible to figure out who was on what side, who was hiding something potentially explosive, and so forth. It was a little annoying, but considering what they were protecting, I can't say that I blame them for being wary not only of Alistair and his "documentary", but of the consequences of the fire in the previous book that Rich is facing charges for.
Danika crafted another great mystery that may not have had as much of an excitement factor as it's predecessor, but was an enjoyable read nonetheless.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2018
Stone has a knack for layered and nuanced storytelling that lets characters shine. Read more thoughts here: http://winsomegates.jenevivedesroches...
March 26, 2018
A review of The Dark Divide by D.K. Stone (Stonehouse Publishing, 2018)
“Everyone in Waterton comes from somewhere. He’s not the only one with secrets.”
The Dark Divide p.256
In the shadows of the Rocky Mountains, on the cusp of the continental divide, along the unguarded border of the 49th parallel, a secluded and secretive town turns quiet once the last of the outsiders and tourists have left in the fall. Over the dark and chilling winter, the inhabitants of the insular town gather for coffee and gossip, talking a lot, but saying very little. Each member of this tight-knit community has their own reason for coming to Waterton, and most have a strong desire to stay in seclusion. The darkness of the short days and long nights are punctuated with bright, jarring flashes of the past cropping up in unexpected ways. Each person has something to hide, and something to lose, and are willing to do whatever it takes to keep the light out of their quiet corner of the Canadian Rockies.
The Dark Divide is a thrilling escape into the township of Waterton, within the national park in south western Alberta, where a disaster unlike the town has ever seen causes secrets to be revealed and past motives to be remembered anew. Memories have been forgotten, and pushed into the deep brush of the wilderness, seeking for a mountain path back into a clearing. Behind each tree lays a shadow of man, of beast, of memory. Unveiling the truth little by little, Stone allows the reader to illuminate each piece, helping to reassemble the mystery.
On the heels of her break-out success, Edge of Wild, Stone brings back together unmistakable characters in an unforgettable locale. The scent of the pine, the whistle of the trees, the crisp crunch of new fallen snow; Stone has found a way for the timelessness of the place to resonate within our own memories of the past of quiet times in the winter darkness. This cannot be considered a sequel of Edge of Wild, as The Dark Divide continues the narrative without a breath in between. Stone helps the characters to become more familiar, reminds us of lost memories as they begin to surface, and shapes how the imposing mountains grow closer.
Through the darkness of the winter months, a heat is rising as passions grow stronger between all the townfolk in Stone’s version of Wateron. The causes of the underlying distrust of outsiders is revealed, as the clues to the town’s dark past are illuminated by Stone’s compelling narrative. Trusting her readers to follow the meandering path, Stone muddles historical fact, contemporary fiction and the unyielding forces of the natural and supernatural into a rich and warm narrative that is easy to get lost in, and hard to put down. Vivid dialogue shapes each character, and the interplay between characters becomes more entangled, yet softer as they all become closer to each other, and to the reader as well.
If Edge of Wild was an exploration into the wilderness and unnerving and jagged sharpness of an outsider trying to fit in, The Dark Divide is a bittersweet love story coming back to a more familiar place, allowing the reader to fall in love with the true beauty of Waterton, and an understanding of what warmth can come from such a crisp and cool place. As Stone indicates through her protagonist, everyone in Waterton comes from somewhere else, and everyone has their secrets. The Dark Divide is a compelling invitation to come, let down your guard and to stay.
April 24, 2018
From the opening paragraphs to the final word, Ms. Stone creates and maintains the perfect pace.
She starts with the right touch of history - enough to be ominous but not tiresome. Then she includes throwaway details - Hunter and his coffee mugs, Rich pumping gas to the nearest dollar, Susan burning eggs because she answered the door - to make these people come alive, make them real. She ends with a soupcon of hope.
Rich's life is still in turmoil, with the aftermath of the fire nipping at his heels, the main story opening with calling the courtroom to order, only in the Canadian way (which was an interesting contrast to the US way), and the suspense in The Dark Divide continues to ratchet higher and higher. Who will testify at the preliminary hearing? Will Rich be bound over for trial? Who will be subpoenaed on behalf of the prosecution? Who the hell is Alistair Diarmuid, and why is Lou the only person in town who likes him?
But as crucial to the future as the court proceedings are, the story here is really about Louise Newman, and about Rich Evans only as his life intersects with Lou's. And frankly, that feels appropriate. Lou's stories are less omnipresent in The Dark Divide, but more on the mark, and there are fascinating responses in her listeners. At one point, I wrote to myself, "Why does Rich not see that Lou's telling him about herself with each and every story?" Little hints are dropped here and there about Lou, her childhood, her "knowing," and for me there is some satisfaction in learning these new things, while at the same time I'm eager to know the rest of her story.
As much as Rich does, I grow frustrated with Lou's inability to tell Rich straight out what her deal is. Then I want to smack her for revealing a big thing at precisely the wrong moment. I'm equally frustrated with Rich: One of my notes says, "What bug crawled up his ass?" These two personify the old rhyme about the little girl - when she was good, she was very, very good, but when she was bad, she was horrid. When things are right between Rich and Lou, the story settles into a happy place. When things are going wrong, sometimes one after the other, it seems impossible to believe they'll come back from this. Even as I'm ready to snatch either one of them bald-headed, though, I never stop rooting for these two kids to work it out.
Ms. Stone's ability to create fables, or fable-like tales, to suit circumstances in the story, is remarkable. There's always a little something which makes me ask, "How do you DO that?" In this case, it was the story about the God of Death. A couple of hundred years ago, it would have been her voice we listened to around the fire in the dark, the atmosphere soothing or crackling with every tale from our collective pasts. She's got a gift.
Despite the fact that the overarching mystery is "resolved" by book's end, I'm beyond excited about the third book. I have no doubt it'll be as suspenseful as the first two, with plenty of surprises along the way.
Go. Read. You'll be glad you did. And if for some reason you haven't read Edge of Wild, hie thyself to your crack dealer of choice.
She starts with the right touch of history - enough to be ominous but not tiresome. Then she includes throwaway details - Hunter and his coffee mugs, Rich pumping gas to the nearest dollar, Susan burning eggs because she answered the door - to make these people come alive, make them real. She ends with a soupcon of hope.
Rich's life is still in turmoil, with the aftermath of the fire nipping at his heels, the main story opening with calling the courtroom to order, only in the Canadian way (which was an interesting contrast to the US way), and the suspense in The Dark Divide continues to ratchet higher and higher. Who will testify at the preliminary hearing? Will Rich be bound over for trial? Who will be subpoenaed on behalf of the prosecution? Who the hell is Alistair Diarmuid, and why is Lou the only person in town who likes him?
But as crucial to the future as the court proceedings are, the story here is really about Louise Newman, and about Rich Evans only as his life intersects with Lou's. And frankly, that feels appropriate. Lou's stories are less omnipresent in The Dark Divide, but more on the mark, and there are fascinating responses in her listeners. At one point, I wrote to myself, "Why does Rich not see that Lou's telling him about herself with each and every story?" Little hints are dropped here and there about Lou, her childhood, her "knowing," and for me there is some satisfaction in learning these new things, while at the same time I'm eager to know the rest of her story.
As much as Rich does, I grow frustrated with Lou's inability to tell Rich straight out what her deal is. Then I want to smack her for revealing a big thing at precisely the wrong moment. I'm equally frustrated with Rich: One of my notes says, "What bug crawled up his ass?" These two personify the old rhyme about the little girl - when she was good, she was very, very good, but when she was bad, she was horrid. When things are right between Rich and Lou, the story settles into a happy place. When things are going wrong, sometimes one after the other, it seems impossible to believe they'll come back from this. Even as I'm ready to snatch either one of them bald-headed, though, I never stop rooting for these two kids to work it out.
Ms. Stone's ability to create fables, or fable-like tales, to suit circumstances in the story, is remarkable. There's always a little something which makes me ask, "How do you DO that?" In this case, it was the story about the God of Death. A couple of hundred years ago, it would have been her voice we listened to around the fire in the dark, the atmosphere soothing or crackling with every tale from our collective pasts. She's got a gift.
Despite the fact that the overarching mystery is "resolved" by book's end, I'm beyond excited about the third book. I have no doubt it'll be as suspenseful as the first two, with plenty of surprises along the way.
Go. Read. You'll be glad you did. And if for some reason you haven't read Edge of Wild, hie thyself to your crack dealer of choice.
November 7, 2018
I chose to read this book after receiving a free copy from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I read first book in the Waterton series, The Edge of Wild, and I enjoyed it so I was happy to read The Dark Divide. After a fire that burnt down the hotel Rich Evans was managing, he is staying with his girlfriend Lou. He's jobless but he couldn't leave town if he wanted to because he's been charged with arson of the hotel. He's innocent but feels helpless. He has a good lawyer who thinks he can probably get Rich acquitted, but nothing is 100%.
Police officer Sadie Black Plume has a lot on her plate. She and her partner are trying to find the owner of a fingerprint that was found in the hotel's basement shortly before the arson. This fingerprint matched one of someone who murdered a policeman in 1970. They believe if they find the person, they may also be the arsonist. Getting fingerprints of the locals who were old enough to commit murder back in 1970 won't be easy because it seems that few of them will give them up without a warrant.
So many of the people in this small town have big secrets. And when Alistair comes into town saying he's working on a documentary, no one trusts him. Waterton is a small town and they only trust locals. Is Alistair's documentary the only thing he's after? He sure seems interested in finding out about everyone's personal history.
I like Danika Stone’s writing style. Her characters are complex and well developed. Although I didn't care a lot for Rich in the last book, I liked him better in this one. I didn't care for the fights between him and Lou though. I know there are people who blow up like that in reality but it has always made me uncomfortable. I just wanted them to settle down and talk!
I liked the ending of The Dark Divide and learning secrets some of the townsfolk had kept for so many years.
I read first book in the Waterton series, The Edge of Wild, and I enjoyed it so I was happy to read The Dark Divide. After a fire that burnt down the hotel Rich Evans was managing, he is staying with his girlfriend Lou. He's jobless but he couldn't leave town if he wanted to because he's been charged with arson of the hotel. He's innocent but feels helpless. He has a good lawyer who thinks he can probably get Rich acquitted, but nothing is 100%.
Police officer Sadie Black Plume has a lot on her plate. She and her partner are trying to find the owner of a fingerprint that was found in the hotel's basement shortly before the arson. This fingerprint matched one of someone who murdered a policeman in 1970. They believe if they find the person, they may also be the arsonist. Getting fingerprints of the locals who were old enough to commit murder back in 1970 won't be easy because it seems that few of them will give them up without a warrant.
So many of the people in this small town have big secrets. And when Alistair comes into town saying he's working on a documentary, no one trusts him. Waterton is a small town and they only trust locals. Is Alistair's documentary the only thing he's after? He sure seems interested in finding out about everyone's personal history.
I like Danika Stone’s writing style. Her characters are complex and well developed. Although I didn't care a lot for Rich in the last book, I liked him better in this one. I didn't care for the fights between him and Lou though. I know there are people who blow up like that in reality but it has always made me uncomfortable. I just wanted them to settle down and talk!
I liked the ending of The Dark Divide and learning secrets some of the townsfolk had kept for so many years.
March 29, 2018
Well she’s done it again! D.K. Stone has written The DARK DIVIDE, her sequel to THE EDGE OF WILD which I reviewed in October of 2016. As a rule, I am leery of sequels. (I doubt I’ll ever write one.) More often than not sequels have disappointed me. In my mind [I guess] I reason that eating too much chocolate ice cream tends to make me tired of chocolate ice cream. Know what I mean?
However, Ms. Stone managed to serve me even more delicious ingredients in THE DARK DIVIDE. Truthfully I’d completely forgotten my first review, so when I was considering what to share for this new book [not yet available to the public as of 3/27/18], I discovered my original, complimentary thoughts actually paralleled my opinions regarding THE DARK DIVIDE. For example, she once again had me wanting to strangle certain characters and cheering for others. Her character development is superior. Even more important to me was the fact that I was unable to predict how she would conclude her tale. Bravo!
As I said, it’s not available yet, but I thought I would remind you of its forerunner and help announce the coming of THE DARK DIVIDE. Would I suggest you read THE EDGE OF WILD first? Although not necessary, I would. Recalling a few details from the first book didn’t hurt. However, THE DARK DIVIDE is a great story on its own merit which I feel is an achievement all its own. Enjoy!
However, Ms. Stone managed to serve me even more delicious ingredients in THE DARK DIVIDE. Truthfully I’d completely forgotten my first review, so when I was considering what to share for this new book [not yet available to the public as of 3/27/18], I discovered my original, complimentary thoughts actually paralleled my opinions regarding THE DARK DIVIDE. For example, she once again had me wanting to strangle certain characters and cheering for others. Her character development is superior. Even more important to me was the fact that I was unable to predict how she would conclude her tale. Bravo!
As I said, it’s not available yet, but I thought I would remind you of its forerunner and help announce the coming of THE DARK DIVIDE. Would I suggest you read THE EDGE OF WILD first? Although not necessary, I would. Recalling a few details from the first book didn’t hurt. However, THE DARK DIVIDE is a great story on its own merit which I feel is an achievement all its own. Enjoy!
March 31, 2018
A big thank you to the author of this book for sending me (a fan of her work) an advance reading copy of it to add to my bookshelves.
This story is a continuation of the plot that Stone so brilliantly brought forward in her first book Edge of Wild. Stone has continued explorations of the frustrations of her protagonist Rich Evans and his stay in the small community of Waterton. He finds himself jobless and listless after the destruction of the hotel he once managed and under suspicion of its arson. Only one person believes in his innocence – local Louise Newman – and although she truly loves him, their relationship comes under severe strain as the suspicion of his actions is called into court and he needs to deal with proving his innocence.
Stone not only weaves a great tale of suspense and intrigue here but she captures great elements of the human condition. We have all encountered some sort of suspicion and fear when we have visited close-knit communities. And her exploration of the troubles between the relationship of Rich and Lou while are troublesome, are very real and familiar to many of us. This is a story that is unique and yet very familiar for many readers.
https://pacifictranquility.wordpress....
This story is a continuation of the plot that Stone so brilliantly brought forward in her first book Edge of Wild. Stone has continued explorations of the frustrations of her protagonist Rich Evans and his stay in the small community of Waterton. He finds himself jobless and listless after the destruction of the hotel he once managed and under suspicion of its arson. Only one person believes in his innocence – local Louise Newman – and although she truly loves him, their relationship comes under severe strain as the suspicion of his actions is called into court and he needs to deal with proving his innocence.
Stone not only weaves a great tale of suspense and intrigue here but she captures great elements of the human condition. We have all encountered some sort of suspicion and fear when we have visited close-knit communities. And her exploration of the troubles between the relationship of Rich and Lou while are troublesome, are very real and familiar to many of us. This is a story that is unique and yet very familiar for many readers.
https://pacifictranquility.wordpress....
January 3, 2021
With so many writers out there and so many books to choose from, sometimes you just not sure which one to pick and go for your next read. So many, you could play safe and go the usual route. With that in mind, I stumbled upon this writer on instagram one day and thought, I never picked my next read based on this paltform before. So I decided to do just that and glad too. The Dark Divide, was my second read from this author and once again I absolutly loved it. Returning to Rich and Lou of the series, the first being Edge of wild. Keeping me hooked and wondering, lost in the characters and the place it is set in. When your reading a book, that is what you want it to do, draw you in and make you want to keep turning the pages. The way each characters life rolled along together, trying to figure out each ones back story to why they became that way and the mystery to resolve. I love reading this over the christmas holidays and would love to see this turned into a movie, maybe a netflix series could work out well for this. Definatly looking forward to the third book in the series. What a great read and definalty recommend.
December 1, 2020
This one picks up right where the first one left off and I felt all the feels with it as I started reading. I think this is one of those series that if you haven't read it in a while and then you go back to it. That you will feel everything you felt the first time no matter how many times you have read it. This one pulled me right back into the story with my love for these characters. I read this in one sitting and just couldn't stop! If you loved book one this one is going to knock your socks off.
August 31, 2022
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Review
Edge of Wild was a real surprise when I read it last year. When I was reading it, I loved all the different characters and especially Lou. The only thing that I thought it was missing was more information about Lou. I wanted a companion novel that focused more on Lou in the future.
The Dark Divide is even better than a companion. It's a direct sequel that not only focuses more on Lou and her secrets, but also reveals more about the scrappy cast of characters in the town of Waterford itself. I couldn't be happier about this book if I special ordered it. It's almost as if Danika Stone wrote it specifically for me! I wanted more and voilà, it appears in my mailbox! Magic!
Seriously though, The Dark Divide was perfect. It answered all of my nagging suspicions that I was left with at the end of Edge of Wild. Waterton is very isolationist. They don't appreciate outsiders trying to move in on their territory. It's more than just a small town mentality and the explanation was perfect. I really enjoyed how the town's history is affecting them still today. Lou is still far and away my favorite character of the series. She's willing to fight for what she wants and she's strong. She's had to be to run her mechanic shop alone. Mostly, though, I envy the way that she can go with the flow and take things as they come. I wish I could let go and just be that way.
Since The Dark Divide was the special ordered sequel of my dreams, next I would like to request a Spin off novel starring Hunter and Levi. Hunter needs to find love and Levi is the perfect crotchety old man. Looking forward to seeing it in 2019. :D
I love Aesthetics! When they are well done, they give such a great feeling about the topic. The Aesthetic that Danika put together for The Dark Divide is perfect. Lou is a little mysterious. Waterton is gorgeous, yet slightly foreboding. Rich is handsome and rugged but still sensitive. This really gets you in the right mood to dive into The Dark Divide.
The Dark Divide Novel Aesthetic
The Dark Divide is one of those books where I definitely had a clear vision of what I wanted my characters and setting to be. Physically, Rich was based on a young Sir Edmund Hillary while Louise tended to look more like Kristen Kreuk (in my head, at least!) The setting had more to do with mood than actual location. Waterton Park, Alberta is a real place, but the setting for The Dark Divide needed to be moodier. Put all those pieces together and you get… THIS!
About the Author
Danika Stone is an author, artist, and educator who discovered a passion for writing fiction while in the throes of her Masters thesis. A self-declared bibliophile, Danika now writes novels for both teens: INTERNET FAMOUS (Macmillan, 2017) and ALL THE FEELS (Macmillan, 2016); and adults THE DARK DIVIDE (Stonehouse, 2018) and EDGE OF WILD (Stonehouse, 2016).
Ms. Stone's work has received both recognition and literary praise. In 2017, Chapters included EDGE OF WILD in "Our Favourite Canadian Fiction", and INTERNET FAMOUS was nominated for the R. Ross Annett Award for Children's Literature (2018) as well as selected as one of Fierce Reads' "9 Perfect Summertime Reads" (2017). EDGE OF WILD (previously entitled TATHAGATA) was a quarter-finalist in Amazon's Breakthrough Novel of the Year Award (2013), a finalist in the Horatio Nelson Fiction Prize (2015), and took second place in the Publish or Perish contest (2015). ALL THE FEELS was selected for Swoon Reads' fourth list (2015) and was nominated for YALSA's Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (2016), and for CYBILS' Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards (2016).
Ms. Stone's books have been reviewed by VOYA, Teen Reads, and School Library Journal. Danika has also featured in the BN Teen Blog, Clash, Quillable, Fierce Reads, Lethbridge Living Magazine, CJSR's Word, and on CBC's Daybreak.
When not writing, Danika can be found hiking in the Rockies, planning grand adventures, and spending far too much time online. She lives with her husband, three sons, and a houseful of imaginary characters in a windy corner of Alberta, Canada.
This review was originally posted on Emily Reads Everything
Edge of Wild was a real surprise when I read it last year. When I was reading it, I loved all the different characters and especially Lou. The only thing that I thought it was missing was more information about Lou. I wanted a companion novel that focused more on Lou in the future.
The Dark Divide is even better than a companion. It's a direct sequel that not only focuses more on Lou and her secrets, but also reveals more about the scrappy cast of characters in the town of Waterford itself. I couldn't be happier about this book if I special ordered it. It's almost as if Danika Stone wrote it specifically for me! I wanted more and voilà, it appears in my mailbox! Magic!
Seriously though, The Dark Divide was perfect. It answered all of my nagging suspicions that I was left with at the end of Edge of Wild. Waterton is very isolationist. They don't appreciate outsiders trying to move in on their territory. It's more than just a small town mentality and the explanation was perfect. I really enjoyed how the town's history is affecting them still today. Lou is still far and away my favorite character of the series. She's willing to fight for what she wants and she's strong. She's had to be to run her mechanic shop alone. Mostly, though, I envy the way that she can go with the flow and take things as they come. I wish I could let go and just be that way.
Since The Dark Divide was the special ordered sequel of my dreams, next I would like to request a Spin off novel starring Hunter and Levi. Hunter needs to find love and Levi is the perfect crotchety old man. Looking forward to seeing it in 2019. :D
I love Aesthetics! When they are well done, they give such a great feeling about the topic. The Aesthetic that Danika put together for The Dark Divide is perfect. Lou is a little mysterious. Waterton is gorgeous, yet slightly foreboding. Rich is handsome and rugged but still sensitive. This really gets you in the right mood to dive into The Dark Divide.
The Dark Divide Novel Aesthetic
The Dark Divide is one of those books where I definitely had a clear vision of what I wanted my characters and setting to be. Physically, Rich was based on a young Sir Edmund Hillary while Louise tended to look more like Kristen Kreuk (in my head, at least!) The setting had more to do with mood than actual location. Waterton Park, Alberta is a real place, but the setting for The Dark Divide needed to be moodier. Put all those pieces together and you get… THIS!
About the Author
Danika Stone is an author, artist, and educator who discovered a passion for writing fiction while in the throes of her Masters thesis. A self-declared bibliophile, Danika now writes novels for both teens: INTERNET FAMOUS (Macmillan, 2017) and ALL THE FEELS (Macmillan, 2016); and adults THE DARK DIVIDE (Stonehouse, 2018) and EDGE OF WILD (Stonehouse, 2016).Ms. Stone's work has received both recognition and literary praise. In 2017, Chapters included EDGE OF WILD in "Our Favourite Canadian Fiction", and INTERNET FAMOUS was nominated for the R. Ross Annett Award for Children's Literature (2018) as well as selected as one of Fierce Reads' "9 Perfect Summertime Reads" (2017). EDGE OF WILD (previously entitled TATHAGATA) was a quarter-finalist in Amazon's Breakthrough Novel of the Year Award (2013), a finalist in the Horatio Nelson Fiction Prize (2015), and took second place in the Publish or Perish contest (2015). ALL THE FEELS was selected for Swoon Reads' fourth list (2015) and was nominated for YALSA's Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (2016), and for CYBILS' Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards (2016).
Ms. Stone's books have been reviewed by VOYA, Teen Reads, and School Library Journal. Danika has also featured in the BN Teen Blog, Clash, Quillable, Fierce Reads, Lethbridge Living Magazine, CJSR's Word, and on CBC's Daybreak.
When not writing, Danika can be found hiking in the Rockies, planning grand adventures, and spending far too much time online. She lives with her husband, three sons, and a houseful of imaginary characters in a windy corner of Alberta, Canada.
May 21, 2018
4.5/5
Can someone please make a TV show out of this Trilogy? It would have the most breathtakingly beautiful setting, with eerie landscapes that would just elevate the suspense of this great story.
This second instalment of the Waterton series takes you back to where Edge of Wild left off. We go back to Rich, Lou and also the locals who are as closed off as before. Events from the previous book are still affecting the small border town and getting in the way of the epic romance that it is Rich and Lou. #Endgame
I really couldn’t put the book down once I started. The way Stone writes suspense is amazing and really keeps you on the edge the whole time. At times you think you got it and then BAM! You realise that it wasn’t quite what you thought.
Even though the story moves a bit more onto the romance of our main characters, it doesn’t deviate from the main theme which is ‘WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON?’ I mean mystery!
I can’t wait to see what Stone has in store for us with the last instalment! I kinda need it right now!
There is dark secrets, suspense, murder and mystery with sprinkles of romance. All set in a beautiful small Canadian town, so what are you waiting for? Go get it!
Rating: ★★★★✬
The Dark Divide by D.K. Stone is available in paperback and e-book and you can get it now on Amazon.
Thanks Danika Stone for sending me a paperback copy (and amazing book swag) of The Dark Divide in exchange for my honest review.
*FangirlSince1988 xxx
Can someone please make a TV show out of this Trilogy? It would have the most breathtakingly beautiful setting, with eerie landscapes that would just elevate the suspense of this great story.
This second instalment of the Waterton series takes you back to where Edge of Wild left off. We go back to Rich, Lou and also the locals who are as closed off as before. Events from the previous book are still affecting the small border town and getting in the way of the epic romance that it is Rich and Lou. #Endgame
I really couldn’t put the book down once I started. The way Stone writes suspense is amazing and really keeps you on the edge the whole time. At times you think you got it and then BAM! You realise that it wasn’t quite what you thought.
Even though the story moves a bit more onto the romance of our main characters, it doesn’t deviate from the main theme which is ‘WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON?’ I mean mystery!
I can’t wait to see what Stone has in store for us with the last instalment! I kinda need it right now!
There is dark secrets, suspense, murder and mystery with sprinkles of romance. All set in a beautiful small Canadian town, so what are you waiting for? Go get it!
Rating: ★★★★✬
The Dark Divide by D.K. Stone is available in paperback and e-book and you can get it now on Amazon.
Thanks Danika Stone for sending me a paperback copy (and amazing book swag) of The Dark Divide in exchange for my honest review.
*FangirlSince1988 xxx
February 18, 2020
D.K. Stone’s The Dark Divide contains all my favorite mystery elements: a small, isolated town populated by interesting people with secrets that must be kept, even if it means someone will die. Stone delivers a well-crafted and beautifully-paced story that will keep you turning the pages.
April 5, 2020
I read this book not realizing it’s the second in a trilogy. It really stood up well on its own. I really enjoyed this book and will look out for the other two. There is comfort in reading a story set in a place that you know, with weather that makes sense.
July 29, 2021
A great mystery, set in and around Waterton Park, with lovely descriptions about the park.
May 11, 2018
Such a great follow up to The Edge of Wild! I loved learning more about the town and the people there, especially Lou, Rich, & Hunter. I really enjoyed the mystery and did not see it ending the way it did. I can't wait for book 3!
The Dark Divide, which is the sequel to The Edge of Wild is a thriller/mystery set in the very small town of Waterton, Alberta, Canada. The main characters are Rich Evans and Louise Newman, but the townspeople are what really make these books shine. They are quirky, secretive, and full of different personalities. In a way they remind me of the people in Stars Hollow (Gilmore Girls), but darker. The first book dealt with murders happening in the town & ended with a hotel fire. The Dark Divide picks up with the aftermath of the hotel fire and a new mystery for the townspeople of Waterton to be secretive about. I hope you give this adult thriller a read and enjoy it as much as I do!
The Dark Divide, which is the sequel to The Edge of Wild is a thriller/mystery set in the very small town of Waterton, Alberta, Canada. The main characters are Rich Evans and Louise Newman, but the townspeople are what really make these books shine. They are quirky, secretive, and full of different personalities. In a way they remind me of the people in Stars Hollow (Gilmore Girls), but darker. The first book dealt with murders happening in the town & ended with a hotel fire. The Dark Divide picks up with the aftermath of the hotel fire and a new mystery for the townspeople of Waterton to be secretive about. I hope you give this adult thriller a read and enjoy it as much as I do!
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