I didn't like Desires of the Dead. 
 ***** 
 BLAND. 
 This is a sore follow-up to the one of the most unique stories I've read in YA genre. Despite the beautiful writing of Derting, Desires of the Dead failed to stick to the paranormal feel and delved more on teenage drama. Sigh. I was so looking forward to more sickening and morbid theme of serial killers that Derting adapted fo her series. 
 Apparently, Violet's power is heightening - into the realm of the subsconscious. But that didn't stop her to savor her new found relationship with Jay and to try to stay as normal as possible. Violet's character grated on me most of the time. She became aloof, secretive and suspicious of everyone. That kind of attitude doesn't help her if she wants to catch a stalker or a killer. Jay became annoying - sappy and corny. Violet and Jay's relationship shoved the mysterious edge of the story under the rug. The only thing that reminds me that i am reading a suspenseful book is the POV (in each chapter end) of someone who wants Violet... well, dead. 
 New characters are introduced but it only added unnecessary weight to the Violet's dramatic tendencies. I found Chelsea more intriguing than Violet, and Rafe! Despite being thrown in just a few scenes, he made his presence felt. This is the one to watch out for! Oh yeah, i'm crossing over to Team Rafe :D It doesn't matter if Violet ends up with Jay in the end. Rafe's character is strong enough to stand on its own. 
 Overall, the story inside Desires of the Dead felt forced. This sequel did not actually reach the suspense part, because it became a boring guessing game. I did love Violet's realization that she no longer wants to be normal. Because she's not - Violet is special and should act like one. How? by helping other people that needs her gift the most. 
 Will i read the next book, The Last Echo?... Yes. because of RAFE. ;-)