Book Review: The Darkness Rises by Stacy Stokes
From the moment I stumbled across The Darkness Rises, a gripping YA novel by Stacy Stokes, I was captivated by its tantalizing premise. The thought of a protagonist, Whitney Lancaster, grappling with the burden of a supernatural ability to detect danger through the ominous appearance of a dark cloud instantly piqued my curiosity. It’s a concept that raises profound questions about morality and responsibility, making me wonder, “What would I do in her shoes?” Yet, despite the initial excitement, my reading experience turned out to be a rather bitter disappointment.
Whitney Lancaster, at just 18, has been shouldering her extraordinary and isolating burden since the age of seven. The premise suggests a thrilling blend of paranormal fiction, mystery, and teenage angst—all genres that usually spark joy in my reading heart. Unfortunately, as I dove into the story, it felt like I hit a wall. After Chapter 3, I knew things were going awry, and I even gave myself a three-day ghosting break from it to mentally prepare for what was unfolding.
Stokes introduces numerous engaging themes: the weight of guilt, the struggle for connection in the face of trauma, and the complexities of young relationships. I yearned for a deeper exploration of Whitney’s conscience after a tragic school shooting—an event that not only changed lives but also turned Whitney’s world upside down. Instead, I found myself wading through pages filled with teenage drama, particularly centered on Whitney’s turbulent relationships with her ex-best friend and ex-boyfriend, which, frankly, veered too far from the book’s central plot.
What stood out for me was how Whitney’s struggle against her gifted ability became, unfortunately, overshadowed by a recurrent focus on petty grievances, like her friend Penny’s obsession with a pair of white roses. I craved more insights into the reactions and healing processes of the broader cast—especially the surviving victims—than I got about ballet positions or social squabbles. Shouldn’t a tale rooted in such serious circumstances evoke collective resilience and growth rather than bickering about trivialities?
As for the revenge plot, it felt rather flimsy. While one motive was relatable and easy to grasp, the other seemed forced and underdeveloped. By figuring out the antagonist’s identity well before the climax, the suspense dissipated, and I didn’t find myself emotionally invested in the resolution. When you can predict plot twists, the thrill tends to fizzle out, leaving behind a sense of unfulfillment.
In the end, while The Darkness Rises had all the makings of a thought-provoking narrative, the execution felt muddled and disappointing. I was hoping for a story where characters rise together, stronger from their experiences, but I was met with more social gatherings, alcohol-fueled decisions, and melodrama.
Who might enjoy this book? It could resonate with readers who appreciate a heavier emphasis on teen relationships over serious thematic exploration. However, it fell short of what I was hoping for—a balanced narrative that provides both excitement and emotional depth. As I set this book aside, a wistful thought lingered: perhaps I’ll give another of Stokes’ works a try, making sure to give a little more weight to the synopsis next time than shiny covers.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley and Viking Books for Young Readers for the ARC! If you’re intrigued by the supernatural but also enjoy the tumultuous waves of teenage life, you might find something in The Darkness Rises. However, be prepared for a more dramatic ride than a thoughtful exploration of its dark, rich themes.
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