Review of Whispers of the White Rose

[Laney K]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Whispers of the White Rose" by J.C. Kane.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Jonathan's parents were killed in a home invasion, and he is sent to live with a relative he has never met before: Great Aunt Evelyn. She is an eccentric woman, living in a joyless mansion, who demands that Jonathan follow a strict set of rules. One hair out of place could spell disaster for him. However, Jonathan finds escape through young love. Emily, a classmate, is a never-ending source of joy for him as their relationship blossoms. Will their love be enough to keep them together, or will the dark forces intervene? Read Whispers of the White Rose by J.C. Kane to find out.

I thought that Kane did a fantastic job of creating a tense mood that pervaded throughout the novel. The descriptions of the mansion were something out of a horror movie. The compelling love story added a dichotomy to the darkness of Jonathan's circumstances in the mansion. Emily brought a sense of normalcy into Jonathan's life. At his aunt's mansion, Jonathan was isolated and not allowed to act like a kid. He was trapped, which is a feeling that could be relatable to many.

There was some repetition of language. Kane has an excellent command of language and created vivid images throughout the book. However, the same descriptions were used over and over again. For example, Emily is described as a "beacon of light" on five separate occasions. I think the image would have been more powerful if it had not been repeated so many times. Other descriptions felt overused as well.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. Due to the repetition I discussed, I am taking off one star. Overall, it was an excellent novel. Due to the young age of the protagonists, I believe this book will appeal to both teenagers and adults. I think it is best suited to those ages sixteen and up due to the dark themes. If you enjoy romance and a bit of horror, then Whispers of the White Rose is a great option!

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Whispers of the White Rose
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[Kibet Hillary]

How would the mansion be for it to be vividly described in such a manner? This is one of the things that piques my curiosity about this book. I am wondering how Jonathan and Emily's relationship will survive the tough times. Thanks for the review, @Laney K.

[Helen Waziri]

Jonathan’s loss is mirrored by the oppressive mansion and his aunt’s rigid control, while Emily offers more than just love. It’s this emotional undercurrent that gives the novel its quiet power beneath the chills.