Official Review: The Dark Beginning by RaJean Anderson

[Morgan Jones]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Dark Beginning" by RaJean Anderson.]

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1 out of 4 stars

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The Dark Beginning by RaJean Anderson tells the story of Leveta Coxwell, an ambitious and strong-willed woman who moves to Colorado in search for a new beginning beyond the confinements of her past. There, she finds comfort in new friendships and a possible serious relationship, a luxury she couldn’t enjoy before due to a broken family. However, it doesn’t take long for the ghosts of the past to return. Leveta finds herself at a war between her heart and mind once again, but she’ll be adamant to lose the battle a second time. Can she succeed in taking full and permanent control of her life?

To start off, I would like to warn the readers that the book discusses very sensitive topics such as rape, assault, abuse, gun violence and so on. Sadly, the author doesn’t cover such topics with the caution and thoughtfulness needed, to the point where the heaviness of the subjects is completely brushed off during some scenes – which could be triggering for some.

Second of all, the book contains an immense number of grammatical mistakes, misspelled words and a constant confusion between the past and present tense. For many instances, I was left wondering whether I was reading a flashback or a moment of the present. It was obvious that the author hadn't invested in a professional editor, because the story felt more like a rough draft rather than a published book.

To add to it, the plot was extremely fast-paced and rushed. I felt like the characters were emotionless, almost like parrots repeating what was told to them. There was absolutely no room for growth nor development - especially for Leveta, who I expected a lot from considering her tough upbringing and background. In fact, I thought she was very full of herself at times, and her reactions to certain issues didn't quite match her personality. She goes from having trust issues in the past, due to her father’s betrayal, to going on a date with a complete stranger just because he was “hot.” I think the author cared too much about showing the emotional turmoil Leveta was experiencing on the daily, that they forgot to show a proper, smooth transition between such intense emotions.

Also, the conversations were very awkward and a bit cringy to read. As hard as I tried, I couldn't bring myself to imagine such scenarios occurring in real life, nor could I keep up with the characters' random and misplaced thoughts – especially when such thoughts weren't justified. Also, it seemed like the author was too focused on making Leveta stand out, that they failed to add depth and personality to the rest of the individuals in the book. The only main traits that they all shared was that they were “sexy,” they loved Leveta without an acceptable reason, and they all fought for her attention. That is why it became very boring to read about them after a few chapters – especially when I became aware that no development will occur for the rest of the book.

For the reasons above, I will rate this book 1 out of 4 stars. The book should be read by ages above 18 since it contains explicit sexual content and graphic scenes. Sadly, I would not recommend this book to anyone because it lacks a solid plot, strong characterization, and an emotional connection that should have been established with such a "tragic" storyline.

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The Dark Beginning
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Like Morgan Jones's review? Post a comment saying so!

[Ann KENDI]

The book clearly has strong issues that it is trying to address. Unfortunately this was not done in a good manner especially in the plot. This has therefore hampered the book from being read by many people.

[kandscreeley]

It sounds like this book has some serious flaws. I don't mind talking about sensitive subjects; it's necessary and often beneficial. But treating them in such a callous manner is uncalled for. I'll avoid this one. Thanks.

[Morgan Jones]

The book clearly has strong issues that it is trying to address. Unfortunately this was not done in a good manner especially in the plot. This has therefore hampered the book from being read by many people.

Exactly! It was obvious that the author didn't educate themselves about the sensitive topics included in the book before they started writing it.

[Morgan Jones]

It sounds like this book has some serious flaws. I don't mind talking about sensitive subjects; it's necessary and often beneficial. But treating them in such a callous manner is uncalled for. I'll avoid this one. Thanks.

Yes, you're right. In fact, I'm always curious about other's perspectives on such topics in hopes of starting a beneficial conversation. Hence why I was very disappointed with the outcome in this book.

[Cecilia_L]

Sadly, the author doesn’t cover such topics with the caution and thoughtfulness needed, to the point where the heaviness of the subjects is completely brushed off during some scenes – which could be triggering for some.

It's always difficult to score a book with the lowest rating, but based on your review, I certainly agree. You did a great job of identifying the problematic issues.

[jagannathhalder]

You are right , in this book very grammar mistake .

[Bianka Walter]

Oh dear. This one seems to have missed the mark on everything! I get annoyed when authors try to include graphic and sensitive content only for shock value. Without solid explanations and due consideration, this makes the book shallow.
I loved your review - thanks!

[Rose Harebate]

The title of the book sounds intriguing. Too bad the story has all the negative things there is to make it a bad read. Thanks for a helpful review.

[Mbrooks2518]

Sounds like the author didn't put nearly enough thought into their writing. Hopefully they rewrite it and get help from an editor. Thanks for the review!

[Jackie Holycross]

What a sad attempt. Good job analyzing it.

[Dentarthurdent]

Sadly, I would not recommend this book to anyone because it lacks a solid plot, strong characterization, and an emotional connection that should have been established with such a "tragic" storyline.

This one appears to be one of those superficial plots that inconsiderately treat tragedy and trauma as drama, to make the book interesting rather than tasteful or of good quality. I really appreciate how you explain your issues with the book.

[chiefsimplex]

I feel that romance has to make sense and be weaved into a logical plot, otherwise it gets painfully boring. The disorganized structure is really unfortunate and i hope the writer takes note. Thanks for a review wonderfully done.

[Womba9]

I'm very sensitive to sexual abuse stories, however I don't mind talking or reading about them.
One must learn that no matter what we go through in life we can put it aside and learn to live life afresh so I see nothing wrong with her going on a date with a total stranger. She is trying to live a normal life. Not all are so paranoid despite their experience.
However based on your review on this book I wouldn't read it for the fact that there are grammatical errors and wrong spellings as well as confusing chapters.
I can urge the author to rewrite this book with the help of professionals being very aware of how hard it is to rewrite a book.
All in all,I have learnt so much from this review,about the book as well as what to avoid in future projects.