Book review: Kane Richards Must Die by Shanice Williams

Title: Kane Richards Must Die

Author: Shanice Williams

Publisher: Lands Atlantic Publishing, May 12, 2011

Paperback, 288 pages

Rating: 3/5

After an unexpected transfer to the States for her senior year, Suranne's new friends give her just one instruction: stay away from Kane Richards. According to everyone, he's a heartless playboy concerned only for himself. With one glance, it's easy to see why he gets away with it. But things aren't always what they seem- especially when he sets his sights on her and whispers that she's different.

Despite all the red flags, Suranne considers whether or not his intentions are genuine or if she's simply another name on his list. In the process, she may just uncover the real Kane Richards. But, when it comes down to it, the real Kane Richards may not want to be found.

Filled with raw emotion, Kane Richards Must Die explores relationships, trust, love, and what can happen when life takes an unexpected turn.

I was interested in reading this book, partly because of my own genuine excitement, and partly because of the mixed reviews online -- some haven't given favorable reviews of Kane Richards Must Die, and some have loved the book. Kane Richards Must Die is an easy read, a great book if you want to unwind on the couch at the end of the day. Williams sets up a plot that is familiar to most YA readers: new girl in school falls for mysterious bad boy with a secret. What's not to like about that? The book is marketable, for sure. 

A few minor things that I would polish are: the overuse of cliches and adverbs, and too much telling instead of showing. There are points where readers are given too much information, when they can figure the scene out on their own. Does this prevent me from enjoying the story? No, it's not a deal-breaker. 

Williams builds a fast-paced, butterflies-in-your-stomach kind of romance between Suranne and Kane, and that keeps readers hanging on. Teen romance is complicated, confusing, and also a rush to the brain, and I think Williams captures that well. The emotion is there in her writing, and I appreciate that. Will there be a sequel? Perhaps! Will I read it? You bet.

Bottom line: Teen girls will love the hot romance between Suranne and Kane.

Check out this awesome book trailer: