Penitence by Jennifer Laurens

Of course I had to read the 2nd book immediately, desperate to know the next chapter of Zoe's story (I refuse to say more for spoiler alerts). Needless to say, I was done with more than half the book before I was even out of work!

While Heavenly had a an edge to it's writing, the overall feeling was peaceful, which made each trauma easier to manage. Penitence flips around and gives a grittier version as the same troubles plaguing the Dodd family worsens. The focus moves from Abria's autism as the major source of discontent to Zoe's bigger battle for her soul and her consuming love for Matthias-who she can't have. Again, the story unfolds naturally leaving no doubt that each scenario-from the absurd to the divine-is true. Total honesty shines a light on even the worst character flaws, but the reader remains enraptured, easily forgiving as they realize their own inner beasts.

Penitence offers a deeper connection to the world of Pleasant Grove setting the town's population in a Good v Evil battle. This epic war, waged in each little decision, never falters in its entertainment value despite any raucous fighting. The story weaves with more complexity in this second installment as the predicaments Zoe faces become, like life itself, unpredictable. I remained fascinated and anxious throughout and regret not knowing a 3rd installment, Absolution, was released a mere 9 days ago so I could readily jump back in to reading Zoe's conclusion.