Review of Kody Keplinger’s POISON IVY: THORNS

Poison Ivy: Thorns by Kody Keplinger

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ms. Keplinger (and Ms. Kipin) have crafted a beautiful and tragic story that gives Poison Ivy an entirely different dimension to her character. And everything reads as believable, which makes it even…well, I hesitate to say “better,” given the book’s topics. But the tale’s reality keeps you turning the pages, determined to find the answers.

My only qualm was Pamela’s connection to the plants, which never received an adequate explanation. (Arguably the most crucial piece for her origin story) The details are there, but they aren’t at the same time. And I craved that defining moment when she recognized that SOMETHING had forged a bond between the two (whatever Ms. Keplinger decided that link needed to be).

The multiple tragedies forced upon her weigh so heavily from page to page, and you feel the physical need for a break. It’s a presence on the reader’s shoulders as they turn the pages. Everything is handled so beautifully, twisting the heart in sympathy until you want to scream. (Or causing you to stay up an extra hour to finish the book) I applaud these ladies for their accomplishments because I have no doubt whatsoever that it was a complex undertaking.

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