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Siren's Call #1
Lure
Seventeen-year-old Charlotte Brewer is sure she's crazy when she hears singing drifting from the ocean; normal people don't have arias playing on repeat in their head. When she gets wasted at a party and investigates the ethereal tune, she almost drowns. Charlotte comes to with an overwhelming fetish for salt water and a heartbeat of only seven beats a minute. She wakes up by the sea almost every day and dead men wash up hours later.
Then Charlotte meets Lorelei, a siren. Lorelei reveals she saved her from drowning with the Siren's Kiss, a curse that made Charlotte a soulless immortal. Her role as a siren is guide the souls of the dead at sea. But taking care of the dead is difficult after Charlotte discovers she's stuck in the middle of a war between a fertility goddess and the sirens. If Charlotte wants to regain her mortality, she must find true love. And if she fails to secure it, she faces losing her existence to the gods.
Then Charlotte meets Lorelei, a siren. Lorelei reveals she saved her from drowning with the Siren's Kiss, a curse that made Charlotte a soulless immortal. Her role as a siren is guide the souls of the dead at sea. But taking care of the dead is difficult after Charlotte discovers she's stuck in the middle of a war between a fertility goddess and the sirens. If Charlotte wants to regain her mortality, she must find true love. And if she fails to secure it, she faces losing her existence to the gods.
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First published March 29, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 11, 2011
It took me until almost the end of the story to really get a feel for Charlotte and like her. I enjoyed the fact that it was realistic that she was a waitress in a restaurant and that is where she met Wyatt (Golden). At first I liked him until he made a really bad choice. I did really feel for Char when she would run across Kyle and could feel her internal conflict that she suffered with him and his actions.
The highlight for me was when she and Matt started hanging out. He is a little more of a bad boy with tattoos and plays music. He has a cute nickname for Char -- Goose. The relationship that unravels between Char and Matt is something I would like to see come out in a second installment of this story. I just hope that Stephanie has more in store for us then where we left off.
This book will appeal to YA Paranormal fans and fans of Greek Mythology -- Sirens, Gods and Demigods -- Oh my!! I would read more from this author.
The highlight for me was when she and Matt started hanging out. He is a little more of a bad boy with tattoos and plays music. He has a cute nickname for Char -- Goose. The relationship that unravels between Char and Matt is something I would like to see come out in a second installment of this story. I just hope that Stephanie has more in store for us then where we left off.
This book will appeal to YA Paranormal fans and fans of Greek Mythology -- Sirens, Gods and Demigods -- Oh my!! I would read more from this author.
April 3, 2011
I've read a ton of books, and I have to say Lure surpasses a lot of the books I've read lately. Charlotte makes you root for her. Her story is so addictive. I literally couldn't put it down. The voice in the first paragraph hooked me right away and told me this was a girl I could totally be friends with. She isn't afraid to call someone out on their crap, which in my eyes makes for an awesome female lead character. She will keep you on your toes.
I was captivated by the first chapter. I just had to find out what/who was singing and putting Charlotte in a trace where time would literally be sucked away from her. The Siren's song that calls to her hypnotizes her and causes her to do some crazy things.
The other characters in the novel were also well written. It's so hard to make secondary characters lovable, but Jenkins has done an awesome job of making me care for them and interested in their stories as well.
If you want romance in a YA novel, this one is for you. Wyatt sizzles and I can see why Charlotte is attracted to him. Hooray for hot boys in YA!! LOL This really kept the read going too. I wanted to know more about him and I rooted for him and Charlotte to hook up.
There is plenty of mystery and suspense in this novel, so if your looking for a YA fantasy novel to read that rocks and still doesn't break the bank, give LURE a shot!! I loved it and would totally recommend!!
More YA BOOK REVIEWS: Reading, Writing and Waiting www.youngadultbookworm.blogspot.com
I was captivated by the first chapter. I just had to find out what/who was singing and putting Charlotte in a trace where time would literally be sucked away from her. The Siren's song that calls to her hypnotizes her and causes her to do some crazy things.
The other characters in the novel were also well written. It's so hard to make secondary characters lovable, but Jenkins has done an awesome job of making me care for them and interested in their stories as well.
If you want romance in a YA novel, this one is for you. Wyatt sizzles and I can see why Charlotte is attracted to him. Hooray for hot boys in YA!! LOL This really kept the read going too. I wanted to know more about him and I rooted for him and Charlotte to hook up.
There is plenty of mystery and suspense in this novel, so if your looking for a YA fantasy novel to read that rocks and still doesn't break the bank, give LURE a shot!! I loved it and would totally recommend!!
More YA BOOK REVIEWS: Reading, Writing and Waiting www.youngadultbookworm.blogspot.com
April 8, 2011
It took a few pages for me to get into this book because I'm not usually into MCs like Charlotte, snarky and into wild parties, but as I got to know Charlotte, I realized there was depth to her. Plus, as a New England resident, I saw that her salty demenour (no pun intended) matched that of several New England girls I know.
When I started reading this book, I didn't know much about it - just that it was an urban fantasy. And I've got to say, knowing little made it an exciting, unexpected read. There were some nice twists and there was a refreshing originality to the plot. Despite my initial reservations regarding Charlotte, I could not put the book down. Jenkins wove an engaging tale and I wanted to see how it would end. If you enjoyed Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments series, you will probably also enjoy Lure. Additionally, if you enjoyed Stephanie Perkins' Anna and the French Kiss, you may want to branch out and give Lure a shot. If you read Lure, you'll understand why...
When I started reading this book, I didn't know much about it - just that it was an urban fantasy. And I've got to say, knowing little made it an exciting, unexpected read. There were some nice twists and there was a refreshing originality to the plot. Despite my initial reservations regarding Charlotte, I could not put the book down. Jenkins wove an engaging tale and I wanted to see how it would end. If you enjoyed Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments series, you will probably also enjoy Lure. Additionally, if you enjoyed Stephanie Perkins' Anna and the French Kiss, you may want to branch out and give Lure a shot. If you read Lure, you'll understand why...
June 11, 2011
I devoured this book. I really enjoyed the characters and got to know them quite well while reading. Even though I couldn't stop reading this book, I feel like there were some pretty substantial plot holes and gaps that's need to be filled. Also, the ending was very loose and confusing to me. All in all, this was a fun read and I would recommend it to others.
April 3, 2011
Amazing, fresh and beautiful. You should all buy this book.
April 4, 2011
I've read this book several times and I love it. I still think Charlotte's name should have been Claudia though. =)
March 24, 2012
The story started out a bit slow but quickly picked up pace around page 30 or so. I ended up finishing Lure fairly quickly, however I was left with a lot of mixed emotions that were weighed down by the negative.
When it comes to supernatural YA books it feels like the characters interchange between Vampires, Werewolves, Zombies, or Witches, therefore I found it very refreshing to read about Sirens. I found that Lure did a pretty good job of taking well-known Greek Mythological stories and creatures and giving them its own twist, but I don’t think the story lines were fully fleshed out. I was confused quite a bit due to gaps in the plot and it was hard at times to connect different threads in order to get the story to make sense. On the other hand, even though the story line began to annoy me, there was enough allure to keep me interested in reaching the end. When it comes down to it though, I don’t think I’d eagerly recommend this book to a friend. Although Charlotte’s story is original and refreshing the other elements such as a strong characters, were missing.
A big aspect of what I consider a “good” book is deep and well-developed characters, unfortunately I felt like Lure lacked this completely. The main character, Charlotte, to be honest, annoyed me. In the beginning she was this angry girl who had shields up around everyone, including her supposed best friends, Andy and Sophie. By the end of the book she was exactly the same except she was a siren. Basically there was no character development whatsoever. To be a siren meant you were soul-less, having lost the ability to feel true emotions. However, Charlotte already had trouble feeling emotions when she was human. Throughout the book she kept having these epiphanies where she wondered and reveled in the fact that her friends actually “cared” about her especially whenever she’d have an accident (which happened quite a lot) or disappeared into her rooms for days. Also, for a girl who had trouble feeling emotions, she was awfully moody which I feel would invalidate her Siren-esque aspects… Very confusing.
The supporting characters were pretty lifeless, especially Andy and Sophie. The two would pretty much disappear (figuratively speaking) for days and when they showed up all we’d really get is more references to Andy’s afro-hairstyle and the big drug/pill-popping addiction Sophie couldn’t kick. I wish they had been fleshed out some more because it seemed like they had a lot of potential; they were pretty much useless.
Overall I’d rate this book 2.5 stars. I’m curious to see how the story continues (book 2 has already been released) especially since my only real, favorite character, Matt seems to play a bigger role. Out of all the characters he seems to have the biggest potential. However It’ll most likely be a while before I grab the second book.
When it comes to supernatural YA books it feels like the characters interchange between Vampires, Werewolves, Zombies, or Witches, therefore I found it very refreshing to read about Sirens. I found that Lure did a pretty good job of taking well-known Greek Mythological stories and creatures and giving them its own twist, but I don’t think the story lines were fully fleshed out. I was confused quite a bit due to gaps in the plot and it was hard at times to connect different threads in order to get the story to make sense. On the other hand, even though the story line began to annoy me, there was enough allure to keep me interested in reaching the end. When it comes down to it though, I don’t think I’d eagerly recommend this book to a friend. Although Charlotte’s story is original and refreshing the other elements such as a strong characters, were missing.
A big aspect of what I consider a “good” book is deep and well-developed characters, unfortunately I felt like Lure lacked this completely. The main character, Charlotte, to be honest, annoyed me. In the beginning she was this angry girl who had shields up around everyone, including her supposed best friends, Andy and Sophie. By the end of the book she was exactly the same except she was a siren. Basically there was no character development whatsoever. To be a siren meant you were soul-less, having lost the ability to feel true emotions. However, Charlotte already had trouble feeling emotions when she was human. Throughout the book she kept having these epiphanies where she wondered and reveled in the fact that her friends actually “cared” about her especially whenever she’d have an accident (which happened quite a lot) or disappeared into her rooms for days. Also, for a girl who had trouble feeling emotions, she was awfully moody which I feel would invalidate her Siren-esque aspects… Very confusing.
The supporting characters were pretty lifeless, especially Andy and Sophie. The two would pretty much disappear (figuratively speaking) for days and when they showed up all we’d really get is more references to Andy’s afro-hairstyle and the big drug/pill-popping addiction Sophie couldn’t kick. I wish they had been fleshed out some more because it seemed like they had a lot of potential; they were pretty much useless.
Overall I’d rate this book 2.5 stars. I’m curious to see how the story continues (book 2 has already been released) especially since my only real, favorite character, Matt seems to play a bigger role. Out of all the characters he seems to have the biggest potential. However It’ll most likely be a while before I grab the second book.
June 11, 2011
Thank you, THANK YOU for not being an overdone, cliche true-love-at-first-sight story.
It's so rare to find a well-done romance anymore, particularly in the young adult realm. Stephanie Jenkins, however, managed to write and self-publish a good story.
I loved the way that the teen romance wasn't overdone, nor was the character "Char" overly angst-ridden. Jenkins achieved a healthy balance of realism and drama, which seems to be a lost art among modern authors.
Not to mention the fantastic twists and turns hidden in the story that kept me guessing. I'm so tired of predictable plot twists and romance pitfalls, or books that try to be so unpredictable that they're just dumb. Jenkins managed to surprise me several times and manage to tie everything in together.
The only fault I found in the story is that perhaps some of the supporting characters could use more depth- Sophie's drug problem somehow seems pretty insignificant except for the scene where Wyatt meets her and Char is ashamed of her friend. That scene was very well done. Likewise, Cameron's drinking problem could have been fleshed out a little more. However, the characters still manage not to be completely 2D and somehow don't detract from the story's overall 4-star rating.
It's so rare to find a well-done romance anymore, particularly in the young adult realm. Stephanie Jenkins, however, managed to write and self-publish a good story.
I loved the way that the teen romance wasn't overdone, nor was the character "Char" overly angst-ridden. Jenkins achieved a healthy balance of realism and drama, which seems to be a lost art among modern authors.
Not to mention the fantastic twists and turns hidden in the story that kept me guessing. I'm so tired of predictable plot twists and romance pitfalls, or books that try to be so unpredictable that they're just dumb. Jenkins managed to surprise me several times and manage to tie everything in together.
The only fault I found in the story is that perhaps some of the supporting characters could use more depth- Sophie's drug problem somehow seems pretty insignificant except for the scene where Wyatt meets her and Char is ashamed of her friend. That scene was very well done. Likewise, Cameron's drinking problem could have been fleshed out a little more. However, the characters still manage not to be completely 2D and somehow don't detract from the story's overall 4-star rating.
May 17, 2011
LOVED IT!!!! I definitely did not want to stop reading it...I absolutely love Charlotte!! Jenkins really brings her characters to life, plenty of humor, adventure, and even love. teenagers struggle enough but to become a siren and learn how to make it all work and even fall in love -- WOW! I am excited for book 2 (YAY!!!) to come out...
June 5, 2011
A very entertaining read. The writing style is easy to read and the plot isn't hard to follow. Charlotte is a great character. The entire time I was enjoying her sass and personality. The romance has an organic quality that other books sometimes lack.
I am very impressed with this. It is such great value.
I am very impressed with this. It is such great value.
June 4, 2011
I liked this book hands down. Wouldn’t know it was a SP by looking at it. It was written well. I wouldn’t give it to my daughter with some of the drug topics but for an 18+ audience, it was an endearing novel.
April 4, 2011
If you're looking for a YAUF with a different spin, then this is the book for you!! It's got a great MC, a hot love interest, lots of action and adventure.
April 18, 2011
Great book, loved everything about it.
June 7, 2011
3.5 stars
June 22, 2011
What a great introduction to this author! This was a quick and interesting read.
Charlotte (Char) becomes a siren when she almost drowns, and her life inexplicably changes. She no longer has to eat but constantly craves salt water. She tries to live a normal life while strange things start occurring (like her sudden desire to sing and swim in the middle of the night), but her home life is a mess. Both her brother and father are still reeling from the recent loss of her mother, and the family is emotionally distant from each other in their grief.
When she meets the siren who changed her, she also finds her purpose - guiding souls to the afterlife. But there's a catch - she no longer has a soul herself. Some other interesting things happen, but you will have to read this book to find out!
Charlotte has a great support system in two very close friends who put up with her strangeness. She also suddenly has not one, but two, hotties in her life.
The pacing of this story was excellent. While Charlotte was not immediately likable, she most definitely grew on me. I think her cynicism was a way of shielding herself from her mother's loss. Definitely recommended!
$.99 on Kindle
Charlotte (Char) becomes a siren when she almost drowns, and her life inexplicably changes. She no longer has to eat but constantly craves salt water. She tries to live a normal life while strange things start occurring (like her sudden desire to sing and swim in the middle of the night), but her home life is a mess. Both her brother and father are still reeling from the recent loss of her mother, and the family is emotionally distant from each other in their grief.
When she meets the siren who changed her, she also finds her purpose - guiding souls to the afterlife. But there's a catch - she no longer has a soul herself. Some other interesting things happen, but you will have to read this book to find out!
Charlotte has a great support system in two very close friends who put up with her strangeness. She also suddenly has not one, but two, hotties in her life.
The pacing of this story was excellent. While Charlotte was not immediately likable, she most definitely grew on me. I think her cynicism was a way of shielding herself from her mother's loss. Definitely recommended!
$.99 on Kindle
June 2, 2011
I actually stumbled upon this book a few days ago on my kindle and decided to check it out. I am so glad that I did!!
I am really into the whole siren, mermaid book trend right now and this book is definitely one to check out!
The first thing that caught my eye about this book was the cover. The colors, the girl on the rock, whats not to love about it?
One of the coolest parts of this book was that it blended different myths together. It had the siren myth in it but it also incorporated Greek mythology which was really interesting to see.
I also really liked the relationship between the main character Charlotte and Wyatt. Charlotte is a really feisty character and is really strong willed and I loved seeing her react with Wyatt who was totally different then Charlotte.
Overall, this is a great summer read and everyone should check it out. I can't wait to see what the sequel has in store for us! I know this book is available on Ebook readers such as the kindle and the nook, but if you don't own one of these devices it still available online to read!
April 4, 2011
Stephanie Jenkins has written one gem of a book I was hooked from the first page and taken in my char's story. I'm so glad that it got choosen as the BOM on my facebook page YA indie princess I really liked all the other characters.
I love YA with triangles so I hear you ask who are the book boys after char well first we Wyatt who char calls golden boy I know he got on her nerves in the begining but I was head over heels from the first moment. Then we Matt and I just didn't know what to make of him which I would say would be another reason why I keep on reading.
Favourite Quotes
- "Why the hell was I drinking salt water and since when did salt taste like sugar?"
- "Your bullshit is cute"
I wish amazon.co.uk would hurry up and upload book two because I need it now.
I love YA with triangles so I hear you ask who are the book boys after char well first we Wyatt who char calls golden boy I know he got on her nerves in the begining but I was head over heels from the first moment. Then we Matt and I just didn't know what to make of him which I would say would be another reason why I keep on reading.
Favourite Quotes
- "Why the hell was I drinking salt water and since when did salt taste like sugar?"
- "Your bullshit is cute"
I wish amazon.co.uk would hurry up and upload book two because I need it now.
June 22, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. Though a few parts could have been cut to make it a shorter read it didn't suffer from being overly long. The thing I liked most about this book is that it was very true to teenage life. There was no stepping around things like drinking, drugs, and sex. It was straightforward without being over the top or in your face. It just was. I loved the relationship between Charlotte and Wyatt and really look forward to the next book in the series that comes out next month. It also wasn't over the top with the mythology.
October 17, 2011
An engaging book that felt like such a joyous treat!
I admit I had put off reading the book for a while and when I began, I was apprehensive about it: Charlotte's personality 'complex' drove me nuts. Eventually, I came to understand those walls she'd built around herself. That tragedy with her Mom made her distrustful, a bit bitchy and an utter nut-job. Nevertheless, she was a smart kid who wasn't oblivious as to what was happening with her or around her, unlike some protagonists you may come across.
Overall, Lure was good, easy and enjoyable.
I admit I had put off reading the book for a while and when I began, I was apprehensive about it: Charlotte's personality 'complex' drove me nuts. Eventually, I came to understand those walls she'd built around herself. That tragedy with her Mom made her distrustful, a bit bitchy and an utter nut-job. Nevertheless, she was a smart kid who wasn't oblivious as to what was happening with her or around her, unlike some protagonists you may come across.
Overall, Lure was good, easy and enjoyable.
April 24, 2011
Can't put this story down. I love this style of writing and look forward to other works by this author. My daughter asked me why I kept laughing, but I didn't want her to know the main characters traits reminded me of her. This book will be read by her next.
January 20, 2012
Really Super Freakin Good!!!!!
April 23, 2025
3.5 stars
I really had to push myself to finish those last 50 pages. it was fun, the writing was clunky, and she acts like such a bitch it's annoying sometimes but its a good time. I wish the vibes were there you know? she never ever describes the scenery besides "it is raining", it takes place in glouster massachusetts and there's so much there she could have used but no. she didn't even describe her tail since she's a siren you'd think she would? because it's not even clear she has one when she emerges from the water at the end and her friend is shocked to see her I don't get why because I don't even think she has a tail??
her job is to lead souls to heaven or hades and I thought her arch would be learning how to care for others, and figuring out to find peace to her mom but no. she's very uncaring the whole time, even accidently sending a 'good' cop to hell lmao (acab). she's just a bad person.
there's not even that much exposition but it's dropped so randomly and spread throughout that when they bring something back like the demigods I had completely forgotten so it wasn't even a twist. nothing is subtle, it's not foreshadowed AT ALL so I didn't even have the chance to figure it out. just disrespectful
I did actually enjoy it tho, the three girls meeting hermes on the high-school field was very percy jackson coded and that was one of my favorite scenes. just the vibes of "I love the new ones" was cute as hell. I wish hermes had been around more and was actually plot relevant.
her boyfriend is this is a wealthy kid she meets at her waitresses job and she calls him golden boy the whole time. mentions how he lives in a mcmansion and wears Abercrombie and finch. I figured he might learn how is was like being poor and having family who cares about you. or she would learn how to pressure of being rich affected him and the stress from his politician father didn't allow him to be a normal teenager. but no, it's just romanticized a middle class girl and a rich boy fall in love. its just cliché
too much exposition, 5% plot, too much romance, too much inner monologue, not enough vibes.
I really wish there was a second because I 100% believe it would be better now that everything has been set up.
mediocre at best but I still enjoyed it.
another note, I got my copy on amazon for $50 because this is no longer in print but I did happen to find a pdf version after I bought it and uploaded it to the internet archive. if any of yall would be interested it's under my profile AtlanticAmnesia.
here's the link:
https://archive.org/embed/sirens-call..." width="560" height="384" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="true" mozallowfullscreen
I have actually tried to find the author, but since this is her pen name and there's no copywrite information on this book (I believe it was self published) so there is no way for me to find and ask her. If anyone knows her email or facebook or anything I'd love to ask her proper permission for the pdf.
a long way to say it was hard to get my hands on this mediocre book yall.
I really had to push myself to finish those last 50 pages. it was fun, the writing was clunky, and she acts like such a bitch it's annoying sometimes but its a good time. I wish the vibes were there you know? she never ever describes the scenery besides "it is raining", it takes place in glouster massachusetts and there's so much there she could have used but no. she didn't even describe her tail since she's a siren you'd think she would? because it's not even clear she has one when she emerges from the water at the end and her friend is shocked to see her I don't get why because I don't even think she has a tail??
her job is to lead souls to heaven or hades and I thought her arch would be learning how to care for others, and figuring out to find peace to her mom but no. she's very uncaring the whole time, even accidently sending a 'good' cop to hell lmao (acab). she's just a bad person.
there's not even that much exposition but it's dropped so randomly and spread throughout that when they bring something back like the demigods I had completely forgotten so it wasn't even a twist. nothing is subtle, it's not foreshadowed AT ALL so I didn't even have the chance to figure it out. just disrespectful
I did actually enjoy it tho, the three girls meeting hermes on the high-school field was very percy jackson coded and that was one of my favorite scenes. just the vibes of "I love the new ones" was cute as hell. I wish hermes had been around more and was actually plot relevant.
her boyfriend is this is a wealthy kid she meets at her waitresses job and she calls him golden boy the whole time. mentions how he lives in a mcmansion and wears Abercrombie and finch. I figured he might learn how is was like being poor and having family who cares about you. or she would learn how to pressure of being rich affected him and the stress from his politician father didn't allow him to be a normal teenager. but no, it's just romanticized a middle class girl and a rich boy fall in love. its just cliché
too much exposition, 5% plot, too much romance, too much inner monologue, not enough vibes.
I really wish there was a second because I 100% believe it would be better now that everything has been set up.
mediocre at best but I still enjoyed it.
another note, I got my copy on amazon for $50 because this is no longer in print but I did happen to find a pdf version after I bought it and uploaded it to the internet archive. if any of yall would be interested it's under my profile AtlanticAmnesia.
here's the link:
https://archive.org/embed/sirens-call..." width="560" height="384" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="true" mozallowfullscreen
I have actually tried to find the author, but since this is her pen name and there's no copywrite information on this book (I believe it was self published) so there is no way for me to find and ask her. If anyone knows her email or facebook or anything I'd love to ask her proper permission for the pdf.
a long way to say it was hard to get my hands on this mediocre book yall.
May 26, 2018
I fairly enjoyed this book! Such a great take on sirens and a very cutesy romance.
October 22, 2012
Lured (Siren Call #1)
Book Completed: 02/18/2013
Book Rating: ★★★★!
Read the series? I hope so, as long as the next book gets published eventually.
The first thing I'd like to mention is "Yay! An actual siren book!" You have no idea how hard it is to find one of these books when you are a siren fanatic. Sirens are different than mermaids, very different so I was incredibly happy when I happened upon this ebook.
For finding this free ebook online, I can't believe how much I enjoyed this story. It did remind me a lot of "Ripple" by Mandy Hubbard. However, I felt like this story drew me in more and had a more solid plot behind it. This also surprises me because there was a lot going on in this book, with the sirens and Greek mythology interconnected.
There were a few weak points of the story and I mainly found that they came to rest with Waytt -- which is totally not a sexy name but I learned to deal with it.
However, the thing that bothers me the most isn't the actually writing or set up of the book. What bothers me is the fact that I don't think this series has any thought of continuing. If you look at Submerge (Siren Call #2), you'll see it's classified as 'unpublished' and was supposed to have come out June of 2011? Utter disappointment! It had potential for an awesome series! I guess I'll keep my eyes open.
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I didn't really feel the chemistry in the start of the book but I think it was supposed to show how fast Waytt fell for Char. However, close to the end of the book, things actually got steamy for a YA novel and I had to fan my face over his shmexiness. Props to you, Waytt!
All in all, give it a read if you are a siren book lover like me. This one has a new, solid, and well-written concept so definitely check it out!
Book Completed: 02/18/2013
Book Rating: ★★★★!
Read the series? I hope so, as long as the next book gets published eventually.
The first thing I'd like to mention is "Yay! An actual siren book!" You have no idea how hard it is to find one of these books when you are a siren fanatic. Sirens are different than mermaids, very different so I was incredibly happy when I happened upon this ebook.
For finding this free ebook online, I can't believe how much I enjoyed this story. It did remind me a lot of "Ripple" by Mandy Hubbard. However, I felt like this story drew me in more and had a more solid plot behind it. This also surprises me because there was a lot going on in this book, with the sirens and Greek mythology interconnected.
There were a few weak points of the story and I mainly found that they came to rest with Waytt -- which is totally not a sexy name but I learned to deal with it.
However, the thing that bothers me the most isn't the actually writing or set up of the book. What bothers me is the fact that I don't think this series has any thought of continuing. If you look at Submerge (Siren Call #2), you'll see it's classified as 'unpublished' and was supposed to have come out June of 2011? Utter disappointment! It had potential for an awesome series! I guess I'll keep my eyes open.
[image error]
I didn't really feel the chemistry in the start of the book but I think it was supposed to show how fast Waytt fell for Char. However, close to the end of the book, things actually got steamy for a YA novel and I had to fan my face over his shmexiness. Props to you, Waytt!
All in all, give it a read if you are a siren book lover like me. This one has a new, solid, and well-written concept so definitely check it out!
April 5, 2011
I have to say, I really enjoyed the spin that Jenkins put on the old myth of the sirens in this book. It starts out kind of slow, but once it picks up pace, you're on the edge of your seat, wondering what's going to happen next. I really had fun with this book, and it's a great summer read.
The idea of Sirens guiding the sea-drowned dead is something I hadn't even considered (and I think a lot on mythology, especially recently), and Jenkins completely surprised me with this idea of having to make up for their sin of luring men to their deaths with their voices, and the guilt that they carried around because of it. I loved this, and it drew me in immediately.
I also liked the new origin myth about the Sirens (at least, I think it's new, because not only can I not remember there being anything related to Persephone, but I can't find it on wikipedia or other somewhat scholarly sources saying so) - it gave even more gravity to the guilt of the Sirens, and their new mission to guide the dead.
The only things that I'm not sure were needed was the romance element - if anything, the romance between Wyatt and Charlotte felt more than a little forced, and I think that the novel would have done fine without it. Had she just had her own family to look after/save from the hunter, I think it would have been just fine. Hence, one less star. But I do like the way that Jenkins handled the romance, since it was there - after the relationship started, it did start to feel more natural and slowed down a bit, and I felt a bit more at ease in that world.
Jenkins is definitely talented in the sensory language arena - whenever Charlotte was underwater, I felt as if I were underwater too. It was as if I were right by her side, and that's difficult to really properly do in any novel, much less a YA paranormal novel. So I applaud her on that one, and I really look forward to more of it in book 2, which is supposed to be out sometime soon.
Bottom line? I love me some mermaid/siren myths, and this one is a wonderful new addition to the YA canon. So if you want a new spin on an old tale, I urge you to try out "Lure". You won't be disappointed.
(posted to librarything, goodreads, shelfari, and witchoftheatregoing.wordpress.com)
The idea of Sirens guiding the sea-drowned dead is something I hadn't even considered (and I think a lot on mythology, especially recently), and Jenkins completely surprised me with this idea of having to make up for their sin of luring men to their deaths with their voices, and the guilt that they carried around because of it. I loved this, and it drew me in immediately.
I also liked the new origin myth about the Sirens (at least, I think it's new, because not only can I not remember there being anything related to Persephone, but I can't find it on wikipedia or other somewhat scholarly sources saying so) - it gave even more gravity to the guilt of the Sirens, and their new mission to guide the dead.
The only things that I'm not sure were needed was the romance element - if anything, the romance between Wyatt and Charlotte felt more than a little forced, and I think that the novel would have done fine without it. Had she just had her own family to look after/save from the hunter, I think it would have been just fine. Hence, one less star. But I do like the way that Jenkins handled the romance, since it was there - after the relationship started, it did start to feel more natural and slowed down a bit, and I felt a bit more at ease in that world.
Jenkins is definitely talented in the sensory language arena - whenever Charlotte was underwater, I felt as if I were underwater too. It was as if I were right by her side, and that's difficult to really properly do in any novel, much less a YA paranormal novel. So I applaud her on that one, and I really look forward to more of it in book 2, which is supposed to be out sometime soon.
Bottom line? I love me some mermaid/siren myths, and this one is a wonderful new addition to the YA canon. So if you want a new spin on an old tale, I urge you to try out "Lure". You won't be disappointed.
(posted to librarything, goodreads, shelfari, and witchoftheatregoing.wordpress.com)
March 3, 2013
This book is kind of a blur. I mean there is nothing striking that really comes to mind when I think of it.
Charlotte was a really weak character, she kind of went with whatever was happening. I remember thinking that her dad was overbearing and a little insufferable at times and that she never spoke up. Not to her friends,her dad or her brother. The people of the town treated her like dirt and it was like her dad never stood up for her and she took it all in. The mistreat, her dad's attitude, her mom's actions... The problem with that is that I never really saw her getting stronger. I mean, it is okay for a character to start as weak willed, but somewhere along the line she has to find her guts and grow a back bone and end up as a stronger person.
The whole plot of the sirens was a little far fetched and the hand that the Gods play, even more so. I couldn't really wrap my mind around the siren hunter being the son of a god that hated them or how their curse came to be.
The concept that they had a task to take the souls of the drowned to the afterlife through the sea but could only be killed by the siren hunter in the ocean could have worked out, but somehow didn't. And the recourse that she had a limited time to get a human to love her or lose her soul to the gods that had cursed them sirens was pushing it. It didn't even fit naturally except for the part that one has to have a love interest in a YA fantasy.
Lorelei as her brother's savior and rescuer from a dead by alcohol poisoning was completely simple minded. It made me see her as less of a character, because she could have been so much more. Like if she was wiser and could help him because of all that she had been through, not only because she was pretty and Charlotte's brother couldn't help himself by being idiotic by charms.
It was not badly written as far as I remember, but as I said before, it was kind of a blur and not witty enough to have me thinking about it afterwards. Not the worst siren novel out there, still, it had a ways to go.
Charlotte was a really weak character, she kind of went with whatever was happening. I remember thinking that her dad was overbearing and a little insufferable at times and that she never spoke up. Not to her friends,her dad or her brother. The people of the town treated her like dirt and it was like her dad never stood up for her and she took it all in. The mistreat, her dad's attitude, her mom's actions... The problem with that is that I never really saw her getting stronger. I mean, it is okay for a character to start as weak willed, but somewhere along the line she has to find her guts and grow a back bone and end up as a stronger person.
The whole plot of the sirens was a little far fetched and the hand that the Gods play, even more so. I couldn't really wrap my mind around the siren hunter being the son of a god that hated them or how their curse came to be.
The concept that they had a task to take the souls of the drowned to the afterlife through the sea but could only be killed by the siren hunter in the ocean could have worked out, but somehow didn't. And the recourse that she had a limited time to get a human to love her or lose her soul to the gods that had cursed them sirens was pushing it. It didn't even fit naturally except for the part that one has to have a love interest in a YA fantasy.
Lorelei as her brother's savior and rescuer from a dead by alcohol poisoning was completely simple minded. It made me see her as less of a character, because she could have been so much more. Like if she was wiser and could help him because of all that she had been through, not only because she was pretty and Charlotte's brother couldn't help himself by being idiotic by charms.
It was not badly written as far as I remember, but as I said before, it was kind of a blur and not witty enough to have me thinking about it afterwards. Not the worst siren novel out there, still, it had a ways to go.
April 22, 2012
I love reading new twists on old tales, whether that be fairy tales, mythology, classic novels, etc. Unfortunately, many of those new stories fall short. I'm not sure if the writers rely too much on the source material to pull the story along, or what, but I've read some disappointing ones, even by seasoned and favorite authors.
This is not one of those poorly-executed attempts.
I bought this book today and devoured it within a few hours. Couldn't put it down. I love that the major characters are Sirens--they have dealings with some of the major Greek mythology players, but the story isn't about the majors. We get to read about the "little guys," so to speak. Char's handling of her new "job" and how she juggles it with friends, not-boyfriends, her waitressing job and her slightly overbearing father is entertaining and engrossing.
The romance builds steadily, but at no point did I want to roll my eyes at Char's obsession (because there wasn't one), and I never wanted to flat-out kick the boys involved. (These are big pluses, because I can't say the same for every YA I've read.) What can I say? I loved the boy plenty right along with her. Her friends were interesting, but they didn't take over the story. Her mentor didn't info-dump the whole of the explanation/backstory, but her holding of information was believable and not annoying.
I'm only left with one question: when's the sequel going to be out?
This is not one of those poorly-executed attempts.
I bought this book today and devoured it within a few hours. Couldn't put it down. I love that the major characters are Sirens--they have dealings with some of the major Greek mythology players, but the story isn't about the majors. We get to read about the "little guys," so to speak. Char's handling of her new "job" and how she juggles it with friends, not-boyfriends, her waitressing job and her slightly overbearing father is entertaining and engrossing.
The romance builds steadily, but at no point did I want to roll my eyes at Char's obsession (because there wasn't one), and I never wanted to flat-out kick the boys involved. (These are big pluses, because I can't say the same for every YA I've read.) What can I say? I loved the boy plenty right along with her. Her friends were interesting, but they didn't take over the story. Her mentor didn't info-dump the whole of the explanation/backstory, but her holding of information was believable and not annoying.
I'm only left with one question: when's the sequel going to be out?
June 30, 2011
The synopsis "lured" me in, but after I reading a substantial chunk of the book, I fell out of its trance. The writing is okay, but the characters weren't at all likeable to me. Her friend who's high all the time, and the boy who apparently look like Corbin Bleu, didn't really have any depth to them or any real story behind them at all (other than they mooch off of Charlotte at work). And Charlotte, herself, doesn't seem to have any real endearing factors to her. She plays by the rules, she listens to authority figures, she drives a jeep, and gets harrassed by boys. I dunno. I wanted to finish it, but life's too short.
July 17, 2012
I enjoyed reading this book. Although for some reason the cover reminds me of Fallen and Shattered just from different angles. Seriously, all three books are almost similar.
OK, the real review.
Charlotte is just a normal girl in a normal life until she becomes a siren. I'll admit I started taking interest in the book when Golden Boy showed up. I practically wanted to slap him when he said his dad couldn't let them be together. What I find a little weird is that even though I get the whole Siren leads the souls of the dead thing, I still don't get why Charlotte sleep walks when she does he job. Anyways, I'm really looking forward to the next book.
OK, the real review.
Charlotte is just a normal girl in a normal life until she becomes a siren. I'll admit I started taking interest in the book when Golden Boy showed up. I practically wanted to slap him when he said his dad couldn't let them be together. What I find a little weird is that even though I get the whole Siren leads the souls of the dead thing, I still don't get why Charlotte sleep walks when she does he job. Anyways, I'm really looking forward to the next book.
July 11, 2011
I really enjoyed this book after I got into it. It is a very different Paranormal book but refreshing at the same time. The characters are real people with real problems and flaws. Though tradegy, rumors and pain come into their lives they deal with them in real and imperfect ways. The love in this book is not immediate and even shunned by the female protagonist, in a comical-I-have issues kinda way. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to book 2.
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