Velveteen

My, my, my, another dark and twisty book. This one takes us to purgatory, where Velvet is the team leader of a group of Salvagers. They are responsible for collecting any souls who sneak out to run amuck on earth. She is the current record holder, retrieving 57 souls. But something dark is coming and the repercussions will be devastating to those on earth and in purgatory. And of course, there is the complication that the last soul the team collected is a hot, smart and funny boy named Nick. Velvet DOES NOT have time for that. After all, she is not only dealing with a rogue group of souls, she is also intent on killing the man who killed her, which requires her to haunt him. A big no-no in purgatory. Between sneaking out to save her killers latest victim, teaching Nick the ropes, and keeping purgatory safe from shadowquakes, Velvet is one busy and grumpy girl. If only she didn't like kissing Nick so much. Such are the problems one faces while waiting to dim and go on to heaven or hell. This is a complicated read and wouldn't not be easy for an average 8th grade reader. There is a lot of exposition, explaining the rules of purgatory etc. Velvet's own death is really gruesome and not for the light hearted. And let's face it, in general the subject matter is rather dark. All that aside, however, I really enjoyed this book as an adult reader. Do I have students who can handle it? Of course, but it won't be for everyone. Velvet is a strong, confident character and feels intense loyalty to her team and mission. Nick is a great guy, ready to stand by his woman. And the other characters are funny and quirky. So read at your own risk, but let me know what you think, as always, happy reading my friends!