Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton is a YA fantasy set primarily in a future New Orleans. I am a sucker for Nola tales, as I love seeing my favorite city play a role in any story, and it does have a big role in this one. The book is clearly written by someone who loves the city, but is not a native. Some details are just ff, but it's still fun. This New Orleans is rebuilding after being destroyed by hurricanes (a popular theme, though not very comforting). Ari is drawn to New2, the city rebuilt by 9 powerful families who own/run it after it is abandoned by the US after the disaster, in search of her father and the real reason her mother killed herself--a curse to which she is also a victim.
New Orleans is known for being a haven for the different, the "other," outcasts, voodoo, darkness, and revelry. In this version, it's definitely home to outcasts, and maybe vampires, witches, and other creatures of the night--maybe even gods and goddesses.
The story is fun and entertaining, though not mind-blowing. There's plenty of violence and foul language, so be aware. The "bad girl" goddess is an unusual choice--not one usually depicted as a villain. I wasn't sure how I felt about that, but it was an interesting approach.
Of course, the story is not complete, because can we have a YA these days without starting at least a trilogy? Of course not. An enjoyable romp, overall.
Disclaimer: I received an advance electronic copy of this book from the publisher for the purposes of review. Free access to the book did not affect my opinion. For more information on Simon & Schuster's eGalley program, please visit www.galleygrab.com.
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