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Secrets #2
Shattered: A Daughter's Regret
Everybody does it—sneaks out of the house now and then. It’s harmless enough, right? Cleo Neilson is the only one who knows why her mother was in a seedy part of town that one night, but she’s determined to keep the secret that’s breaking her heart. Walk through this teen fiction novel of grief, guilt, faith, and forgiveness. You won’t forget the journey.
Includes bonus chapter taken from Forgotten by Melody Carlson.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2011
26 people are currently reading
641 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
418 books3,245 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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June 9, 2011
Melody Carlson in her new book, "Shattered" Book Two in the Secrets series published by NavPress takes us on a journey into the life of a teenage girl.
Cleo Neilson's best friend, Lola, wins two tickets to a christian concert. Cleo is determined to go to the concert to have one more night with her friend since Lola will moving the next day. However, her mom feels strongly that she not attend the concert. So, Cleo and Lola sneak out of the house and take the city bus to the Colosseum, instead of ordering pizza and watching a movie. After attending the concert, the girls return to Cleo's house decide her mom is asleep and goes to bed. The following morning Cleo's mom is not home. It is then that a policeman knocks at the door with bad news and Cleo's life is SHATTERED! Instead of turning to God in this tragic time Cleo turns to drugs/pills. Cleo can't come to grips with the secret she hides until Aunt Kellie comes to help out and Cleo gets a different perspective on her mom's "obsessive" protectiveness.
Melody Carlson understands the human experience. Not the adult experience or the teenager experience just what it means to be human. Cleo makes a mistake. Granted, it is a mistake that brings tragic consequences but a mistake after all. How she deals with the guilt of her actions only builds up the walls that she has constructed around her. It takes her Aunt, with much patience, to reach behind those walls and help to free her back to living. The themes of this book are just wonderful: forgiveness, redemption and letting God put the shattered pieces of our soul back together again.This book and series was designed for teenagers and I recommend that teenage girls, and boys, read this. However, it is a good read for adults as well.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Glass Road Public Relations for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Cleo Neilson's best friend, Lola, wins two tickets to a christian concert. Cleo is determined to go to the concert to have one more night with her friend since Lola will moving the next day. However, her mom feels strongly that she not attend the concert. So, Cleo and Lola sneak out of the house and take the city bus to the Colosseum, instead of ordering pizza and watching a movie. After attending the concert, the girls return to Cleo's house decide her mom is asleep and goes to bed. The following morning Cleo's mom is not home. It is then that a policeman knocks at the door with bad news and Cleo's life is SHATTERED! Instead of turning to God in this tragic time Cleo turns to drugs/pills. Cleo can't come to grips with the secret she hides until Aunt Kellie comes to help out and Cleo gets a different perspective on her mom's "obsessive" protectiveness.
Melody Carlson understands the human experience. Not the adult experience or the teenager experience just what it means to be human. Cleo makes a mistake. Granted, it is a mistake that brings tragic consequences but a mistake after all. How she deals with the guilt of her actions only builds up the walls that she has constructed around her. It takes her Aunt, with much patience, to reach behind those walls and help to free her back to living. The themes of this book are just wonderful: forgiveness, redemption and letting God put the shattered pieces of our soul back together again.This book and series was designed for teenagers and I recommend that teenage girls, and boys, read this. However, it is a good read for adults as well.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Glass Road Public Relations for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 13, 2011
I told myself I would just take a peek at the story and go back to reading something else on my kindle. Well, I couldn't stop until I finished the book! That's a good story.
Shattered made me cry. Several times. It was a beautiful story and so tragic at the same time. I loved how realistic the author made the daughter's issues, especially when it came to guilt over what happened and blaming herself. How she dealt with the pain using pills for a crutch to get her through the tough spots was well done. Her increasing dependency on them was well done, too. I loved how the various stages of grief were naturally included in the story. They were shown in such as way as to help the main character understand the different cycles of grief that she was going through. I loved the new guy in her life and how supportive he was. That crazy aunt started to grow on me, too.
This story was throughly engrossing and a fantastic portrayal of how guilt and self-blame erodes who you are inside. The author did a great job showing how guilt and regret can destroy so many things in your life. But the author doesn't leave the reader with a hopeless feeling. Carlson uses the people in Cleo's life to draw her out and get her to face her demons. I loved how her being honest and disclosing the truth about her feelings of guilt actually freed her soul to heal. This was so well done. There were no pie-in-the-sky resolutions and healing was shown as tough work, which I appreciated. There are plenty of unrealistic stories in the YA genre. This novel was not one of them. For that reason, and the fact that I was so moved by the story that I cried buckets several times, this book is making my best fiction list for 2011.
Shattered made me cry. Several times. It was a beautiful story and so tragic at the same time. I loved how realistic the author made the daughter's issues, especially when it came to guilt over what happened and blaming herself. How she dealt with the pain using pills for a crutch to get her through the tough spots was well done. Her increasing dependency on them was well done, too. I loved how the various stages of grief were naturally included in the story. They were shown in such as way as to help the main character understand the different cycles of grief that she was going through. I loved the new guy in her life and how supportive he was. That crazy aunt started to grow on me, too.
This story was throughly engrossing and a fantastic portrayal of how guilt and self-blame erodes who you are inside. The author did a great job showing how guilt and regret can destroy so many things in your life. But the author doesn't leave the reader with a hopeless feeling. Carlson uses the people in Cleo's life to draw her out and get her to face her demons. I loved how her being honest and disclosing the truth about her feelings of guilt actually freed her soul to heal. This was so well done. There were no pie-in-the-sky resolutions and healing was shown as tough work, which I appreciated. There are plenty of unrealistic stories in the YA genre. This novel was not one of them. For that reason, and the fact that I was so moved by the story that I cried buckets several times, this book is making my best fiction list for 2011.
May 27, 2011
Shattered…..A Daughters Regret by Melody Carlson
Cleo Neilson is 17 years old and thinks she should be responsible enough to drive her dad’s car into the city to attend a Christian concert with a friend. Her mom Karen has a prior commitment and can’t take the two to the concert, but she doesn’t have a good feeling about Cleo driving to the big city alone at night. Cleo is not happy, she says some very rude things to her mom, and she strikes up a plan that will make sure she and Lola makes it to the concert and back home without her mom finding out. Everyone sneaks out of the house at some point, it’s just what people do. Isn’t it? But as the story unfolds, what a horrible and shocking way for Cleo to find out how and when her mom knew the truth. After this night, after this one bad choice Cleo made to disobey her mom, her life would never be the same. Cleo doesn’t want to deal with what is happening, she doesn’t want to exist anymore. But will she find a way to survive this horrible nightmare, will she every be able to admit to everyone what she did wrong? And surely God could never forgive her, if He cared at all, this wouldn’t have happened to her family. Would it?
As I read this story, I could identify with Karen, because as moms, it is always difficult to start letting go of our children as they grow older. Cleo Neilson in this fictional story is no different than teens today. It is true that everyone sneaks out of their house, everyone disobeys their parents, everyone yells and makes rude comments to their parents. And many get by with it, but some do not. I will have to say this is one of the most heartbreaking books I have ever read. I grieved and cried with Cleo as she struggled with ways to deal with the consequences relating to her disobedience to her mom. I love the way Melody Carlson uses the characters she so awesomely created to show and teach young ladies in their teens the dangers out in the world. To teach them that their moms do love them and want to protect them from harm. I felt as though I was right there in the house with the family, crying with them, loving them, and trying to help them through this. She blends so many different feelings in the heartbreaking circumstances to teach us that God is with us and will see us through anything, if we let Him. He is the only one that can heal our hurts, and this fact was so strong throughout this book.
Numbers 32:23 says "But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.” I think this would be one of the most heartwrenching ways for that to happen, to have to admit that one bad choice you made hurt so many people. I very highly recommend to everyone with a teenage daughter, get a copy of this book to her. If you don’t feel comfortable recommending it to her, let someone else.
Thanks to NavPress for the copy of this book review. The opinions are mine alone. I was not expected or required to write a positive review.
Cleo Neilson is 17 years old and thinks she should be responsible enough to drive her dad’s car into the city to attend a Christian concert with a friend. Her mom Karen has a prior commitment and can’t take the two to the concert, but she doesn’t have a good feeling about Cleo driving to the big city alone at night. Cleo is not happy, she says some very rude things to her mom, and she strikes up a plan that will make sure she and Lola makes it to the concert and back home without her mom finding out. Everyone sneaks out of the house at some point, it’s just what people do. Isn’t it? But as the story unfolds, what a horrible and shocking way for Cleo to find out how and when her mom knew the truth. After this night, after this one bad choice Cleo made to disobey her mom, her life would never be the same. Cleo doesn’t want to deal with what is happening, she doesn’t want to exist anymore. But will she find a way to survive this horrible nightmare, will she every be able to admit to everyone what she did wrong? And surely God could never forgive her, if He cared at all, this wouldn’t have happened to her family. Would it?
As I read this story, I could identify with Karen, because as moms, it is always difficult to start letting go of our children as they grow older. Cleo Neilson in this fictional story is no different than teens today. It is true that everyone sneaks out of their house, everyone disobeys their parents, everyone yells and makes rude comments to their parents. And many get by with it, but some do not. I will have to say this is one of the most heartbreaking books I have ever read. I grieved and cried with Cleo as she struggled with ways to deal with the consequences relating to her disobedience to her mom. I love the way Melody Carlson uses the characters she so awesomely created to show and teach young ladies in their teens the dangers out in the world. To teach them that their moms do love them and want to protect them from harm. I felt as though I was right there in the house with the family, crying with them, loving them, and trying to help them through this. She blends so many different feelings in the heartbreaking circumstances to teach us that God is with us and will see us through anything, if we let Him. He is the only one that can heal our hurts, and this fact was so strong throughout this book.
Numbers 32:23 says "But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.” I think this would be one of the most heartwrenching ways for that to happen, to have to admit that one bad choice you made hurt so many people. I very highly recommend to everyone with a teenage daughter, get a copy of this book to her. If you don’t feel comfortable recommending it to her, let someone else.
Thanks to NavPress for the copy of this book review. The opinions are mine alone. I was not expected or required to write a positive review.
June 9, 2011
*possible spoiler alert*
Cleo Neilson is a spoiled young woman on the edge of graduating from high school, when tragedy strikes her family. A night in the city, that was forbidden by her mom, has led to a horrifically tragic event. Now Cleo is filled with guilt, knowing it is her all her fault. How will she live with herself? She cannot tell her dad, he is already blaming her mom's friend, and she knows that she will lose her father if he knows the truth. Turning to her mother's prescription cabinet Cleo finds herself in a web of despair, existing on prescription drugs and trying to keep it all together enough to make it through each day.
This book was so sad to me, this poor girl looked for the answers in all the wrong places. I truthfully cannot say I enjoyed the book, because it was so hard as a mother to see this young woman making wrong choice after wrong choice. Finally reaching her breaking point and beginning to tell the truth to her aunt and her father is the only thing that saves Cleo from completely destroying her life. Discussion guide at the end of the book. 195 pages 4 stars
This book was provided for review purposes only by Glass Roads PR. No payment was received for this review.
Cleo Neilson is a spoiled young woman on the edge of graduating from high school, when tragedy strikes her family. A night in the city, that was forbidden by her mom, has led to a horrifically tragic event. Now Cleo is filled with guilt, knowing it is her all her fault. How will she live with herself? She cannot tell her dad, he is already blaming her mom's friend, and she knows that she will lose her father if he knows the truth. Turning to her mother's prescription cabinet Cleo finds herself in a web of despair, existing on prescription drugs and trying to keep it all together enough to make it through each day.
This book was so sad to me, this poor girl looked for the answers in all the wrong places. I truthfully cannot say I enjoyed the book, because it was so hard as a mother to see this young woman making wrong choice after wrong choice. Finally reaching her breaking point and beginning to tell the truth to her aunt and her father is the only thing that saves Cleo from completely destroying her life. Discussion guide at the end of the book. 195 pages 4 stars
This book was provided for review purposes only by Glass Roads PR. No payment was received for this review.
April 23, 2012
Melody Carlson, the author, was described as someone who has written books for all ages, but that she especially enjoys writing for and about teens.
Here is one very simple, quick to read story for teens that has got so much heart and substance. It is an inspirational piece that I'm sure will "talk" directly to whoever is reading it. Be it a teenager, a mother, a father, a pastor, a teacher, or even a drug dealer.
I love its simplicity and straightforward approach. I love how it stirred up my insides and made my eyes water. I love how I am so certain that this story will be a life-changer and inspiration for its many readers. After all, that's how Ms. Carlson and most authors get their fulfillment, knowing that through their written words, somebody's heart was touched and a life will be changed for the better.
Here is one very simple, quick to read story for teens that has got so much heart and substance. It is an inspirational piece that I'm sure will "talk" directly to whoever is reading it. Be it a teenager, a mother, a father, a pastor, a teacher, or even a drug dealer.
I love its simplicity and straightforward approach. I love how it stirred up my insides and made my eyes water. I love how I am so certain that this story will be a life-changer and inspiration for its many readers. After all, that's how Ms. Carlson and most authors get their fulfillment, knowing that through their written words, somebody's heart was touched and a life will be changed for the better.
March 9, 2022
Overall Amanda rating: A
I think that this series is really a good read. I love that these books give young readers so many different talking points. This book has a focus on dealing with death, guilt, and drug addiction. I think that I found this book to be so well written due to seeing things like this in my hometown as well as helping people overcome these types of things through church recovery programs that I help with. I hate how I could easily see this character as someone that I met and loved through one of the recovery programs. I think that the story and plot were very well written. Melody does a great job bringing the characters to life. This has been a gut-wrenching series that I am deeply involved in at this point.
I think that this series is really a good read. I love that these books give young readers so many different talking points. This book has a focus on dealing with death, guilt, and drug addiction. I think that I found this book to be so well written due to seeing things like this in my hometown as well as helping people overcome these types of things through church recovery programs that I help with. I hate how I could easily see this character as someone that I met and loved through one of the recovery programs. I think that the story and plot were very well written. Melody does a great job bringing the characters to life. This has been a gut-wrenching series that I am deeply involved in at this point.
August 22, 2021
Had me ugly crying
May 3, 2022
Eye-opening much. But hehe her mum reminded me of my own parents. A bit of a lesson there.
September 20, 2018
Prepare for the tears...
August 11, 2020
This was a quick YA read. Cleo's decision could be very much like a lot of teens, but it costs her dearly when tragedy strikes. The story was predictable, but it certainly kept my interest.
June 10, 2011
I'm going to do this review in two parts, something I'm considering doing in the future for my YA reviews, first part from the parent perspective, the second as a review of the book. Let me know what you think.
As a parent: Shattered covers a number of issues that teens face today and one of the biggest is taking control of your own actions. Not blaming others and not taking on blame for things that are out-of-your-control. I think we all hope our kids don't have to learn in such an extreme way that Cleo learns in. I think this also takes on too much parental control and how a little freedom can help kids, but it never really puts down the parents in any way. Ms. Carlson is a parent herself so I think this book is well-thought out. Concepts in this book are tough, but handled in a way that I think this book is optimal for teenagers 13 and older. A great book to talk about with your teen or for a teen book group - there is lots that can be discussed. And after saying all the value this book has, let me tell you it is an enjoyable book as well. As this is a Christian book, there is no bad language, but there is drug use, but this is handled in a way that does not glamorize it in any way.
My Review: Shattered is a very powerful book. Cleo goes against her mother's wishes one night and it leads to the ultimate life-changing occurence for both Cleo and her family. The book open introducing us to Cleo, her over-protective mother and her best friend Lola. It's Lola's last night in town and she has won tickets to a Christian band concert in the city. Cleo's mom won't let her use the car to get to the concert and doesn't want her going into the city with just her friend, but she has plans that night. Cleo then hatches a plan to get her best friend and herself to the concert without her mom knowing.
This little lie leads to major consequences in Cleo's life and the rest of the book takes the reader through how Cleo handles this situation and how her family and some new friends help her as she faces the guilt, the consequences and more bad decisions she makes. I think the plot was handled well and kept me interested. I would liked the book to be a little longer, but felt everything was covered well. The reader gets to know Cleo most, but I enjoyed getting to know Cleo's aunt Kellie and her help in her life as well as Cleo's long-time crush, now boyfriend, Daniel.
A sensitive subject is handled very well by Ms. Carlson. I haven't read the first book in the Secrets series, but I don't think they are linked like typical series. I think the Secrets series is just a series dealing with teens keeping secrets that weigh them down and how to go about confessing these secrets and getting back to relationships with friends, family and of course God.
A few powerful quotes that really stood out to me:
Even after the house finally got quiet, I still couldn't sleep. By midnight I was playing Ghost Girl again, wandering throughout the house, wishing and wishing I could undo everything . . . or somehow fix this mess. But that's impossible.
The second:
All except for one part of the sermon that somehow sticks.
"God has the heart of a mother. Like a mother, God's love is unconditional. Like a mother, God's forgiveness is complete."
And one final one (this is Aunt Kellie talking to Cleo):
"We can blame ourselves for things that were beyond our control for a lifetime, Cleo. We can torture ourselves for years and years. But someday, we have to accept that we don't control anyone but ourselves. And then we have to account for all the time we lost fretting over those things we couldn't control."
I enjoyed Shattered and think young adults and adults will as well. Ms. Carlson has hit another home run with this one and I will be going back to check out the first Secrets novel, Forgotten. And stay tuned for the third in the series, Trapped in the future.
As a parent: Shattered covers a number of issues that teens face today and one of the biggest is taking control of your own actions. Not blaming others and not taking on blame for things that are out-of-your-control. I think we all hope our kids don't have to learn in such an extreme way that Cleo learns in. I think this also takes on too much parental control and how a little freedom can help kids, but it never really puts down the parents in any way. Ms. Carlson is a parent herself so I think this book is well-thought out. Concepts in this book are tough, but handled in a way that I think this book is optimal for teenagers 13 and older. A great book to talk about with your teen or for a teen book group - there is lots that can be discussed. And after saying all the value this book has, let me tell you it is an enjoyable book as well. As this is a Christian book, there is no bad language, but there is drug use, but this is handled in a way that does not glamorize it in any way.
My Review: Shattered is a very powerful book. Cleo goes against her mother's wishes one night and it leads to the ultimate life-changing occurence for both Cleo and her family. The book open introducing us to Cleo, her over-protective mother and her best friend Lola. It's Lola's last night in town and she has won tickets to a Christian band concert in the city. Cleo's mom won't let her use the car to get to the concert and doesn't want her going into the city with just her friend, but she has plans that night. Cleo then hatches a plan to get her best friend and herself to the concert without her mom knowing.
This little lie leads to major consequences in Cleo's life and the rest of the book takes the reader through how Cleo handles this situation and how her family and some new friends help her as she faces the guilt, the consequences and more bad decisions she makes. I think the plot was handled well and kept me interested. I would liked the book to be a little longer, but felt everything was covered well. The reader gets to know Cleo most, but I enjoyed getting to know Cleo's aunt Kellie and her help in her life as well as Cleo's long-time crush, now boyfriend, Daniel.
A sensitive subject is handled very well by Ms. Carlson. I haven't read the first book in the Secrets series, but I don't think they are linked like typical series. I think the Secrets series is just a series dealing with teens keeping secrets that weigh them down and how to go about confessing these secrets and getting back to relationships with friends, family and of course God.
A few powerful quotes that really stood out to me:
Even after the house finally got quiet, I still couldn't sleep. By midnight I was playing Ghost Girl again, wandering throughout the house, wishing and wishing I could undo everything . . . or somehow fix this mess. But that's impossible.
The second:
All except for one part of the sermon that somehow sticks.
"God has the heart of a mother. Like a mother, God's love is unconditional. Like a mother, God's forgiveness is complete."
And one final one (this is Aunt Kellie talking to Cleo):
"We can blame ourselves for things that were beyond our control for a lifetime, Cleo. We can torture ourselves for years and years. But someday, we have to accept that we don't control anyone but ourselves. And then we have to account for all the time we lost fretting over those things we couldn't control."
I enjoyed Shattered and think young adults and adults will as well. Ms. Carlson has hit another home run with this one and I will be going back to check out the first Secrets novel, Forgotten. And stay tuned for the third in the series, Trapped in the future.
June 8, 2011
Cleo and her best friend sneak out of the house to attend a concert while her mother is at a friend's bachelorette party. Despite Cleo's plan to keep their clandestine meeting just that, her mother somehow finds out and drives into the city to meet Cleo and her friend. Unfortunately, the unthinkable happens and Cleo is left without a mother. Guilt grips Cleo as she comes to terms with why her mother was in the city anyway and she can barely deal with the reality of it all. To numb her pain and help her make it through the day, Cleo turns to Vicodin and later to other cocktails of prescription medication. Will she be able to beat the pull of her addiction?
It took me a while to get into this book. After the first few chapters you finally get the drift of what's going on and you can follow the story. I only gave this book two stars because the characters seemed pretty black and white. A quick summary of the book could be seen as this, Ticked off Cleo goes to concert in spite of mother's reservations. Mom finds oult. Mom is murdered while going to pick up Cleo at forbidden concert. Cleo overcome with guilt. Turns to prescription medication. Gets addicted. Gets help. Guy she likes is still interested in her. That basically sums it up. I don't think the characters were well-developed at all. Cleo is just a normal teenager. There was nothing "special" about her or anything that made her stand out. I feel like I don't even know her other than that she was somewhat of a brat to her mom. {I do understand that the ambiguity of the characters might have been so more readers could relate to them, but it seriously detracted from the value of the book as a whole.} I feel like by having Cleo's mom DIE from as a result of her going to "rescue" Cleo from the concert, the author went for shock value, but let Cleo off later in the book by only going through withdrawal with her aunt at home. She didn't get caught at school, or by the police which would have been equal to the shock value of your mother die-ing because you disobeyed her. Does that make sense?
I was an avid reader in high school--as I am now. This book would have left me seriously disappointed as a high school student--just as it has as an adult. The over all message of this book was a good one, but I think it could have been delivered in a much more intriguing way. More detail, more of a storyline, maybe even throw in some mystery surrounding the murder. Instead I was left with an eighteen year old's thoughts which were really not interesting at all.
I received a copy of this title from Glass Road PR for review. All opinions expressed are solely mine. I was not compensated in any other way for my opinions.
It took me a while to get into this book. After the first few chapters you finally get the drift of what's going on and you can follow the story. I only gave this book two stars because the characters seemed pretty black and white. A quick summary of the book could be seen as this, Ticked off Cleo goes to concert in spite of mother's reservations. Mom finds oult. Mom is murdered while going to pick up Cleo at forbidden concert. Cleo overcome with guilt. Turns to prescription medication. Gets addicted. Gets help. Guy she likes is still interested in her. That basically sums it up. I don't think the characters were well-developed at all. Cleo is just a normal teenager. There was nothing "special" about her or anything that made her stand out. I feel like I don't even know her other than that she was somewhat of a brat to her mom. {I do understand that the ambiguity of the characters might have been so more readers could relate to them, but it seriously detracted from the value of the book as a whole.} I feel like by having Cleo's mom DIE from as a result of her going to "rescue" Cleo from the concert, the author went for shock value, but let Cleo off later in the book by only going through withdrawal with her aunt at home. She didn't get caught at school, or by the police which would have been equal to the shock value of your mother die-ing because you disobeyed her. Does that make sense?
I was an avid reader in high school--as I am now. This book would have left me seriously disappointed as a high school student--just as it has as an adult. The over all message of this book was a good one, but I think it could have been delivered in a much more intriguing way. More detail, more of a storyline, maybe even throw in some mystery surrounding the murder. Instead I was left with an eighteen year old's thoughts which were really not interesting at all.
I received a copy of this title from Glass Road PR for review. All opinions expressed are solely mine. I was not compensated in any other way for my opinions.
May 20, 2011
*******SPOILER ALERT**********
I understand what Melody was wanting to do with this book I just don't think it's going to have the impact on teens, especially girls like she is hoping it will. Cleo is 17, almost 18; her father is on a business trip she asks to borrow her father's car to go into the city with her best friend Lola to see a Christian concert who is moving the following day. Her mother, Karen says EMPHATICALLY NO - not even allowing Lola to drive them to this concert who has her own car and is 18. Karen is a hovering, smothering, helicopter mom, which is putting it mildly. Karen has a bachelorette party to go to that night, and she plans to make breakfast for Lola, her mom, and brothers before they leave for San Diego in the morning. The girls use public transportation and get into the city, and come home safe and sound. Lola has to be up early for the road trip to California. She wakes Cleo, gives her a hug and is out the door. Cleo wakes up a few hours later and is surprised to not find her mother any where around. She figures she is down at Lola's because she said she was going to make breakfast for them, and then the doorbell rings and there is a police officer at the door asking if this is the home of Karen Nielson. There begins a cycle of ridiculousness!
The mother in this story was an over bearing nut! Her daughter was 17, almost 18 and a senior, I just don't think that the teens are going to relate to this one. Most 17 yr olds have their own car, are out every weekend, sometimes on school nights, have jobs, are in a relationship, in a sport or club after school. I found this mom to be very unrealistic for a healthy parent child relationship and because of the mother's smother-mothering it leads to guilt for Cleo over something she is not responsible for.
I felt horrible for Cleo. All she wanted was to be able to do the same things her friends did and her mom was afraid of the tiniest little thing she wouldn't let her move without her. Then when tragedy strikes Cleo blames herself. That just angered me! It wasn't her fault! She didn't do anything wrong! Her mom did, she did from the beginning! I so wanted to reach through the pages and give her a huge hug!
Overall, the book was a good read . . . it had suspense, and the characters were great. Sadly, I just don't see it reaching the teens in the manner that Melody is hoping for. I think the main character would need to be younger. say 14 or 15.
I understand what Melody was wanting to do with this book I just don't think it's going to have the impact on teens, especially girls like she is hoping it will. Cleo is 17, almost 18; her father is on a business trip she asks to borrow her father's car to go into the city with her best friend Lola to see a Christian concert who is moving the following day. Her mother, Karen says EMPHATICALLY NO - not even allowing Lola to drive them to this concert who has her own car and is 18. Karen is a hovering, smothering, helicopter mom, which is putting it mildly. Karen has a bachelorette party to go to that night, and she plans to make breakfast for Lola, her mom, and brothers before they leave for San Diego in the morning. The girls use public transportation and get into the city, and come home safe and sound. Lola has to be up early for the road trip to California. She wakes Cleo, gives her a hug and is out the door. Cleo wakes up a few hours later and is surprised to not find her mother any where around. She figures she is down at Lola's because she said she was going to make breakfast for them, and then the doorbell rings and there is a police officer at the door asking if this is the home of Karen Nielson. There begins a cycle of ridiculousness!
The mother in this story was an over bearing nut! Her daughter was 17, almost 18 and a senior, I just don't think that the teens are going to relate to this one. Most 17 yr olds have their own car, are out every weekend, sometimes on school nights, have jobs, are in a relationship, in a sport or club after school. I found this mom to be very unrealistic for a healthy parent child relationship and because of the mother's smother-mothering it leads to guilt for Cleo over something she is not responsible for.
I felt horrible for Cleo. All she wanted was to be able to do the same things her friends did and her mom was afraid of the tiniest little thing she wouldn't let her move without her. Then when tragedy strikes Cleo blames herself. That just angered me! It wasn't her fault! She didn't do anything wrong! Her mom did, she did from the beginning! I so wanted to reach through the pages and give her a huge hug!
Overall, the book was a good read . . . it had suspense, and the characters were great. Sadly, I just don't see it reaching the teens in the manner that Melody is hoping for. I think the main character would need to be younger. say 14 or 15.
July 8, 2011
Shattered: A Daughter's Regret was my first book by Melody Carlson. A friend of mine has read her book, Christmas at the Harringtons, and enjoyed it. I was looking forward to a lesson-teaching book, with perhaps a bit of suspense and adventure, too.
Though I hate to say it, I was quite disappointed with this book and didn't like it much at all. It may be because I have a very low tolerance for snobby, rude, and disrespectful teenagers, but I am very sad to say I really did not find this book worth the time.
I never got to the point where I liked Cleo. She spoiled her whole reputation so much in the first few chapters with her sour, mean, rude, and unthankful attitude that I even had problems feeling bad for her later. Her mom was being smart and protecting her daughter and Cleo in return was blatantly hurtful and rude. Maybe it's just because I hang with a different crowd than this...all of whom for their families, this is a huge No No...but I couldn't stand her attitude.
A lot of elements of this book were extremely unrealistic, such as how Cleo becomes addicted to a pain medication in like 4 days and can't live without it. People expected her to act perfectly normal only a few days after her mother passed away...apparently not realizing there was a time of grief.
As for the content, this book was pretty clean. As I mentioned above, Cleo became hooked on pain meds and actually met up with a guy who sold her more after she ran out. The drug guy also informs her that there are "other ways" to pay for the drugs when she runs out of money, obviously being very suggestive. Other than that, nothing stood out to me.
By the end, Cleo's attitude has improved but there was no moment of realization where she took note of her horrible attitude and I'm not really sure if she fully realized it was wrong of her to act in such a manner. But to be honest, it wasn't horrible. It is probably only because of my beliefs of how teens should treat their parents - with respect and obedience without argument - and it just drives me crazy when teenagers are rude and disrespectful. But a lot of people did in fact like this story, so if none of the things I mentioned would bother you, you may like this book! :)
I received this free book in return for an honest review from Navpress Publishing. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Though I hate to say it, I was quite disappointed with this book and didn't like it much at all. It may be because I have a very low tolerance for snobby, rude, and disrespectful teenagers, but I am very sad to say I really did not find this book worth the time.
I never got to the point where I liked Cleo. She spoiled her whole reputation so much in the first few chapters with her sour, mean, rude, and unthankful attitude that I even had problems feeling bad for her later. Her mom was being smart and protecting her daughter and Cleo in return was blatantly hurtful and rude. Maybe it's just because I hang with a different crowd than this...all of whom for their families, this is a huge No No...but I couldn't stand her attitude.
A lot of elements of this book were extremely unrealistic, such as how Cleo becomes addicted to a pain medication in like 4 days and can't live without it. People expected her to act perfectly normal only a few days after her mother passed away...apparently not realizing there was a time of grief.
As for the content, this book was pretty clean. As I mentioned above, Cleo became hooked on pain meds and actually met up with a guy who sold her more after she ran out. The drug guy also informs her that there are "other ways" to pay for the drugs when she runs out of money, obviously being very suggestive. Other than that, nothing stood out to me.
By the end, Cleo's attitude has improved but there was no moment of realization where she took note of her horrible attitude and I'm not really sure if she fully realized it was wrong of her to act in such a manner. But to be honest, it wasn't horrible. It is probably only because of my beliefs of how teens should treat their parents - with respect and obedience without argument - and it just drives me crazy when teenagers are rude and disrespectful. But a lot of people did in fact like this story, so if none of the things I mentioned would bother you, you may like this book! :)
I received this free book in return for an honest review from Navpress Publishing. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 8, 2013
Seventeen-year-old Cleo loves her mom, but not her mom's overprotective nature. When the chance comes for Cleo and her best friend Lola to attend a concert in the big city, a Christian concert even, her mom refuses to let her drive. And because the date coincides with a party her mom, Karen, must attend, she can't drive the girls to the concert either. Knowing that she and Lola can make it safely into the city and back again, Cleo figures out a way for them to attend the concert without her mom ever knowing. The guilt is sort of a shock, and she can't really concentrate on the music, but at least Lola had a good time. When Cleo wakes up the next morning, her mom is nowhere to be found. At least until a police officer rings the doorbell with the worst news imaginable.
Choices have consequences, and Cleo learns this the hard way. And the way she deals with the guilt of her last choice is making another poor decision in an attempt to erase her pain. Shattered deals with two separate issues: rebellion and substance abuse. What begins as the prospect of a fun evening with only a little deception quickly spirals out of control. Choices have consequences and when you're a teenager, your protective parents aren't out to squash your fun, they only want to keep you safe.
One of the best lessons learned in Shattered is that you can't make other people's choices your own. Don't heap guilt on your head over a choice someone else made, even if it was from an indirect action of your own. We are responsible for our own actions and cannot control the actions or choices of others, no matter how much we want to.
This one was a tough book to read. I understand the decisions Cleo made because I had a little bit of a rebellious streak in me as a teenager, still do even though I'm an adult now. I get wanting to do the exact opposite of my parent's instruction. In my case the consequences were never severe. In Cleo's case, the consequences were devastating. With a lot of guidance and love from her aunt, Cleo learns to accept forgiveness, both from herself and from the Lord. She has a tough road ahead of her, but I think she'll make it.
Choices have consequences, and Cleo learns this the hard way. And the way she deals with the guilt of her last choice is making another poor decision in an attempt to erase her pain. Shattered deals with two separate issues: rebellion and substance abuse. What begins as the prospect of a fun evening with only a little deception quickly spirals out of control. Choices have consequences and when you're a teenager, your protective parents aren't out to squash your fun, they only want to keep you safe.
One of the best lessons learned in Shattered is that you can't make other people's choices your own. Don't heap guilt on your head over a choice someone else made, even if it was from an indirect action of your own. We are responsible for our own actions and cannot control the actions or choices of others, no matter how much we want to.
This one was a tough book to read. I understand the decisions Cleo made because I had a little bit of a rebellious streak in me as a teenager, still do even though I'm an adult now. I get wanting to do the exact opposite of my parent's instruction. In my case the consequences were never severe. In Cleo's case, the consequences were devastating. With a lot of guidance and love from her aunt, Cleo learns to accept forgiveness, both from herself and from the Lord. She has a tough road ahead of her, but I think she'll make it.
May 23, 2011
Cleo Neilson is almost eighteen, a senior in high school and wants to go to a christian concert with her best friend Nola who is moving away. Nola won the concert tickets and since the concert is being held on the last night before Nola's family moves away Cleo thinks it would be the perfect way for them to spend her last night. The problem is Cleo's mom, Karen doesn't like the idea of the girls going into the city alone. Karen offers to cancel her plans and take the girls, but instead Cleo tells her mom they just wont go instead they will stay the night at Nola's house, but the plans really are to sneak out and ride the bus into the city. Cleo forgets to charge her cell phone, but is certain that nothing will go wrong and besides Nola has her phone. They make it to the concert and back to Cleo's house, and while Cleo thinks she has gotten away with it she intends to confess to her mother the next morning, but the next morning her mother is nowhere to be found, and when two police officers show up at her doorstep she can't imagine what they are telling her. Will Cleo ever stop blaming herself for what happened?
Cleo seemed like a self centered girl who took her mother for granted, and while I though that Karen was really overprotective, but when her sister Kellie gives us Karen's back story it was easy to see where she was coming from. I could easily understand how Cleo might blame herself for what happened to her mother, especially after the cell phone messages her mother left her, and turning to pills to numb the pain seemed like a very realistic move for Cleo to make.The guilt and blame that Cleo carried around was portrayed clearly. While Cleo really didn't want her aunt Kellie around, by the end of the story its aunt Kellie who really helps her see the light.
While this book is geared towards teens, I would easily recommend it to anyone. It is one of those stories that will have you thinking about how quickly life can change.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Cleo seemed like a self centered girl who took her mother for granted, and while I though that Karen was really overprotective, but when her sister Kellie gives us Karen's back story it was easy to see where she was coming from. I could easily understand how Cleo might blame herself for what happened to her mother, especially after the cell phone messages her mother left her, and turning to pills to numb the pain seemed like a very realistic move for Cleo to make.The guilt and blame that Cleo carried around was portrayed clearly. While Cleo really didn't want her aunt Kellie around, by the end of the story its aunt Kellie who really helps her see the light.
While this book is geared towards teens, I would easily recommend it to anyone. It is one of those stories that will have you thinking about how quickly life can change.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2011
Cleo Neilson is a typical 17-year old trying to spread her wings and operate in independence. She has always done exactly what her over-protective mother has wanted her to do. But this time she makes a decision that will prove to have consequences that threaten to tear her world apart.
The last night her best friend will be in town before she moves and the girls have free tickets to a christian concert. The problem - Lola can't drive her mom's car and Cleo's mom won't let her drive into the city alone. Disappointed because she feels her mother is once again being too overprotective she decides to do what she thinks all teenagers do at least once - sneak out.
This one decision turns Cleo's world upside down - her life is shattered by one fatal choice. The guilt and shame and self-hatred from this eats away at Cleo. To try to numb this she turns to pills. However, as her life spirals out of control and she tries everything to numb the pain and memories her Aunt Kelli speaks life altering truth into her life and shares a secret that haunted her all through her childhood.
The question to be answered is will Cleo accept the forgiveness she needs from Christ and allow that grace and love to heal her and change her forever.
This book had me crying from chapter 4 on! Melody Carlson's ability to develop characters that are life-like is shocking. The entire book is heart-wrenching as you exam in your own life the aftermath of decisions that have rocked your own world, and the devastating guilt that follows.
I think this is by far one of my favorite books for teens - well I have to include Pitch Black also. This book is part of the Secrets Series and I can't wait to purchase more. The quality and style of Carlson's writing brings the gritty, dark truth of what teens are facing and thinking to the forefront. She deals with these things in such a way that teens who read these books will be pointed to Christ and His redeeming love and forgiveness.
Highly Recommended.
Special thanks to Glass Road Public Relations and NavPress for this review copy.
The last night her best friend will be in town before she moves and the girls have free tickets to a christian concert. The problem - Lola can't drive her mom's car and Cleo's mom won't let her drive into the city alone. Disappointed because she feels her mother is once again being too overprotective she decides to do what she thinks all teenagers do at least once - sneak out.
This one decision turns Cleo's world upside down - her life is shattered by one fatal choice. The guilt and shame and self-hatred from this eats away at Cleo. To try to numb this she turns to pills. However, as her life spirals out of control and she tries everything to numb the pain and memories her Aunt Kelli speaks life altering truth into her life and shares a secret that haunted her all through her childhood.
The question to be answered is will Cleo accept the forgiveness she needs from Christ and allow that grace and love to heal her and change her forever.
This book had me crying from chapter 4 on! Melody Carlson's ability to develop characters that are life-like is shocking. The entire book is heart-wrenching as you exam in your own life the aftermath of decisions that have rocked your own world, and the devastating guilt that follows.
I think this is by far one of my favorite books for teens - well I have to include Pitch Black also. This book is part of the Secrets Series and I can't wait to purchase more. The quality and style of Carlson's writing brings the gritty, dark truth of what teens are facing and thinking to the forefront. She deals with these things in such a way that teens who read these books will be pointed to Christ and His redeeming love and forgiveness.
Highly Recommended.
Special thanks to Glass Road Public Relations and NavPress for this review copy.
November 20, 2011
If you have read Melody Carlson's True Colors series and her Degrees of Guilt series , you will know and be well aware that she reaches into the areas of life that many authors fear to enter and what I love about Melody Carlson is that even though she reaches into these dark pockets of content that many see as taboo , she writes from a Christian perspective and targets the edgy content so well.
In her new series "Secrets" we read Book #2 Shattered - A Daughter's regret . Cleo is almost 18years old and about to leave home , though if her mother has anything to do with it - it seems that she may be stuck at home under her mother's supervision for the rest of her life. When Cleo is given the chance to spend the night at a concert in the city with her friend Lola whose about to move away, Cleo thinks that maybe this time will be the opportunity for her mum to let go and allow Cleo to spread her wings. That opportunity doesn't arise , so Cleo and Lola sneak out to the concert in the city and plan to catch the bus home. Next morning though, Cleo recieves a knock at the door and two burly policeman are standing there - Cleo's mum has been murdered. As the story goes along we discover that Cleo's mum Karen had headed to the ciry looking for the girls and was caught up in the wrong place, wrong time scenario. As the novel goes along further, we read as Cleo is struggling with the pain and guilt that she feels and begins to be hooked on painkillers , soon that addiction moves towards drugs . Can Cleo get the help she needs or will the pain and guilt consume her before it's too late and she too will end up in a plot next to her mother six feet under ?
Shattered is a great read for all teens and especially those who are wanting more along the lines of True Colors and Degrees of Guilt rather than On the Runway and the Carter House Girls.
In her new series "Secrets" we read Book #2 Shattered - A Daughter's regret . Cleo is almost 18years old and about to leave home , though if her mother has anything to do with it - it seems that she may be stuck at home under her mother's supervision for the rest of her life. When Cleo is given the chance to spend the night at a concert in the city with her friend Lola whose about to move away, Cleo thinks that maybe this time will be the opportunity for her mum to let go and allow Cleo to spread her wings. That opportunity doesn't arise , so Cleo and Lola sneak out to the concert in the city and plan to catch the bus home. Next morning though, Cleo recieves a knock at the door and two burly policeman are standing there - Cleo's mum has been murdered. As the story goes along we discover that Cleo's mum Karen had headed to the ciry looking for the girls and was caught up in the wrong place, wrong time scenario. As the novel goes along further, we read as Cleo is struggling with the pain and guilt that she feels and begins to be hooked on painkillers , soon that addiction moves towards drugs . Can Cleo get the help she needs or will the pain and guilt consume her before it's too late and she too will end up in a plot next to her mother six feet under ?
Shattered is a great read for all teens and especially those who are wanting more along the lines of True Colors and Degrees of Guilt rather than On the Runway and the Carter House Girls.
May 23, 2011
I was always an avid reader as a teenager and as a new blogger I thought it would be fun to read some of the teen fictions books of the day. Shattered by Melody Carlson had me engaged from the first chapter, forgetting that I was even reading a ‘teen’ fiction book. Tears are streaming down my face by chapter 7 and again later in the book.
An intense story about Cleo age 17, and her over-protective mother “Helicopter Mom” who is constantly hovering over Cleo’s life. Cleo’s best friend Lola is moving and Cleo wants to make her last evening in town memorable by attending a concert in the city nearby. Lola’s Mom is busy packing, Cleo’s Dad is out of town, and Cleo’s Mom has a party to attend. Melody Carlson leads us through the repercussions of Cleo’s willful disobedience. The traumatic turn of events brings Cleo to a guilt ridden existence that she longs to escape through pain killers and drugs. Through the love and care of her Aunt Kellie, and God, Cleo is able to see a future without guilt, and a chance at forgiveness.
An intense story filled with pain and tears, but through it all we see peeks of God in His goodness, and the relationship He has with His children if they turn to Him. The characters were well defined and interesting, and the Christian influence was not overwhelming or preachy.
A very enjoyable read, and I think I may be hooked back on teen fiction as an adult!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
An intense story about Cleo age 17, and her over-protective mother “Helicopter Mom” who is constantly hovering over Cleo’s life. Cleo’s best friend Lola is moving and Cleo wants to make her last evening in town memorable by attending a concert in the city nearby. Lola’s Mom is busy packing, Cleo’s Dad is out of town, and Cleo’s Mom has a party to attend. Melody Carlson leads us through the repercussions of Cleo’s willful disobedience. The traumatic turn of events brings Cleo to a guilt ridden existence that she longs to escape through pain killers and drugs. Through the love and care of her Aunt Kellie, and God, Cleo is able to see a future without guilt, and a chance at forgiveness.
An intense story filled with pain and tears, but through it all we see peeks of God in His goodness, and the relationship He has with His children if they turn to Him. The characters were well defined and interesting, and the Christian influence was not overwhelming or preachy.
A very enjoyable read, and I think I may be hooked back on teen fiction as an adult!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
July 1, 2011
I feel like every time I read a book or see a review by Melody Carlson I have to double-check to make sure it's the same Melody Carlson. All of her books are so different from each other that I would never know it's the same author. She's written a ton of books including ones for teens, tweens, women, and children. All of those books are listed on her website. Two years ago Jacki enthusiastically reviewed three of her adult novels that she loved. I've only ever read one of her book's previously - Let Them Eat Fruitcake, which was just okay. For me her newest young-adult novel Shattered fell into the latter category of being just okay.
Cleo's mom is overprotective. And since Cleo is almost eighteen, she of course knows better than her mom and sneaks out of the house to go to a concert with her best friend Lola. That night something happens that will change Cleo's life forever. What happened is not at all what I was expecting so I don't want to ruin it for you, but it was definitely a game changer for a teenage girl. After the incident Cleo turns to drugs to try and forget that night and would succeed in forgetting and probably becoming addicted for good if not for some caring people in her life.
This book dealt with a number of issues like drug use and depression, but I felt like the book stuck to the surface of these issues rather than really getting into them. Written for teens, the book was short and just didn't suck me in enough to really care about the characters. It is a good length for teens though and touches on those issues enough as it needs to for the audience. I think based on Jacki's reviews that I'm going to have to check out one of Carlson's adult novels.
Cleo's mom is overprotective. And since Cleo is almost eighteen, she of course knows better than her mom and sneaks out of the house to go to a concert with her best friend Lola. That night something happens that will change Cleo's life forever. What happened is not at all what I was expecting so I don't want to ruin it for you, but it was definitely a game changer for a teenage girl. After the incident Cleo turns to drugs to try and forget that night and would succeed in forgetting and probably becoming addicted for good if not for some caring people in her life.
This book dealt with a number of issues like drug use and depression, but I felt like the book stuck to the surface of these issues rather than really getting into them. Written for teens, the book was short and just didn't suck me in enough to really care about the characters. It is a good length for teens though and touches on those issues enough as it needs to for the audience. I think based on Jacki's reviews that I'm going to have to check out one of Carlson's adult novels.
May 31, 2011
Title: SHATTERED: A Daughter’s Regret
Author: Melody Carlson
Publisher: NavPress
April 2011
ISBN: 978-1-6000-6949-9
Genre: Inspirational/young adult
Cleo Neilson’s best friend, Lola, is moving away, and to celebrate their last night together, Cleo and Lola plan to use some free tickets Lola won to go to a Christian concert. Only problem is, Lola’s mom needs her car, and Cleo’s mom flat out refuses to let Cleo driver her dad’s car into the city. Cleo is determined to get to that concert, even though Lola is okay with not going, so she devises a way to get their without her mom’s knowledge. After all, her mom has to let her grow up sometime.
Unfortunately, something absolutely positively beyond awful happens as a result of Cleo’s disobedience. And Cleo now faces the consequences of her actions and a secret that is eating her up inside. Will Cleo come to peace wit the results of her decisions?
Melody Carlson had penned another tear-jerker page-turner that deals with the tough issues of deception and consequences. Some of the parts are unbelieveable and predictable, but otherwise the writing is stellar.
SHATTERED is a difficult book to read, yet it is a must-read for teenager girls. Ms. Carlson is a master at addressing tough issues in a realistic, loving and teachable way. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $14.99. 200 pages.
Author: Melody Carlson
Publisher: NavPress
April 2011
ISBN: 978-1-6000-6949-9
Genre: Inspirational/young adult
Cleo Neilson’s best friend, Lola, is moving away, and to celebrate their last night together, Cleo and Lola plan to use some free tickets Lola won to go to a Christian concert. Only problem is, Lola’s mom needs her car, and Cleo’s mom flat out refuses to let Cleo driver her dad’s car into the city. Cleo is determined to get to that concert, even though Lola is okay with not going, so she devises a way to get their without her mom’s knowledge. After all, her mom has to let her grow up sometime.
Unfortunately, something absolutely positively beyond awful happens as a result of Cleo’s disobedience. And Cleo now faces the consequences of her actions and a secret that is eating her up inside. Will Cleo come to peace wit the results of her decisions?
Melody Carlson had penned another tear-jerker page-turner that deals with the tough issues of deception and consequences. Some of the parts are unbelieveable and predictable, but otherwise the writing is stellar.
SHATTERED is a difficult book to read, yet it is a must-read for teenager girls. Ms. Carlson is a master at addressing tough issues in a realistic, loving and teachable way. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $14.99. 200 pages.
June 8, 2011
"Shattered: A Daughter's Regret" by Melody Carlson was a good read...Cleo Neilson has always been pampered by her mother, but, instead of being grateful, she feels as if her mother is too involved in her life, especially now that she's seventeen. And, to top everything off, Cleo's best friend, Lola, is moving away, and Cleo wants to for them to have one night to themselves...without her mother tagging along as a chaperone.
On the last night that Lola's in town, she and Cleo have tickets to a Christian concert in the city. However, instead of Cleo's mother driving them to the concert like her mother wanted to do, Cleo decides to disobey her mother's wishes and she and Lola take the bus into the city.
What happens next almost destroys Cleo because she finds that her mother realizes that the disobeyed her on the night of the concert. Because of this, her mother goes into the city to look for her and ends up getting murdered. Cleo goes through severe guilt because of this and even gets addicted to drugs in the process.
Ms. Carlson does a good job of conveying to her readers, especially teens, why it's so important to obey your parents and the consequences that can occur if they don't.
I give it 4 stars.
On the last night that Lola's in town, she and Cleo have tickets to a Christian concert in the city. However, instead of Cleo's mother driving them to the concert like her mother wanted to do, Cleo decides to disobey her mother's wishes and she and Lola take the bus into the city.
What happens next almost destroys Cleo because she finds that her mother realizes that the disobeyed her on the night of the concert. Because of this, her mother goes into the city to look for her and ends up getting murdered. Cleo goes through severe guilt because of this and even gets addicted to drugs in the process.
Ms. Carlson does a good job of conveying to her readers, especially teens, why it's so important to obey your parents and the consequences that can occur if they don't.
I give it 4 stars.
May 11, 2011
Second book in the Secrets series by Melody Carlson, Shattered was excruciating to read and yet captivated me right until the very end. It definitely made me think about the far reaching consequences of a single action – this book is one that will stay with you for awhile.
Cleo Neilson is a typical teenage girl enjoying her senior year. She is spreading her wings, longing for more freedom and trying to avoid her “helicopter” mother. On the night before her best friend Lola moves out of town, Cleo and Lola make plans that end up forever changing their lives and the lives of those around them. Cleo winds up carrying a heavy burden that eventually leads her into the downward spiral of self-destruction.
This powerful, gripping story is a clear example of why parents should always strive to have open and honest communication with their teenagers. While this book is geared toward teenage readers, parents of teenagers should definitely read this book.
There is a discussion guide included at the back which would offer the perfect opportunity for parents and teens to discuss the issues dealt with in the story.
Cleo Neilson is a typical teenage girl enjoying her senior year. She is spreading her wings, longing for more freedom and trying to avoid her “helicopter” mother. On the night before her best friend Lola moves out of town, Cleo and Lola make plans that end up forever changing their lives and the lives of those around them. Cleo winds up carrying a heavy burden that eventually leads her into the downward spiral of self-destruction.
This powerful, gripping story is a clear example of why parents should always strive to have open and honest communication with their teenagers. While this book is geared toward teenage readers, parents of teenagers should definitely read this book.
There is a discussion guide included at the back which would offer the perfect opportunity for parents and teens to discuss the issues dealt with in the story.
April 18, 2011
A book about choice, healing, forgiveness, support.
While I'm typically not a huge fan of Melody Carlson, this book deserves a read.
17-year old, high school senior, Cleo pesters her mother over and over to let her go to a Christian concert with a female friend - her best friend, Lola - who has tickets to this particular concert. Cleo's father is out of state on business. Her mother has plans that she has been waiting for and really looking forward to. Lola who lives close by is leaving - moving to California the next day for good as Lola's recently divorced mom just got a job there. Cleo's mother tells her "No, it's too dangerous in the city." Cleo tries to smooth talk her way and then to guilt her mother into letting her go.
Cleo's belief is that her mom doesn't trust her and in some ways, still treats her as a child, when in fact, she'll be going off to college next year. She wants to prove to her mom that she can be trusted.
Our choices can and do have an impact on others.
While I'm typically not a huge fan of Melody Carlson, this book deserves a read.
17-year old, high school senior, Cleo pesters her mother over and over to let her go to a Christian concert with a female friend - her best friend, Lola - who has tickets to this particular concert. Cleo's father is out of state on business. Her mother has plans that she has been waiting for and really looking forward to. Lola who lives close by is leaving - moving to California the next day for good as Lola's recently divorced mom just got a job there. Cleo's mother tells her "No, it's too dangerous in the city." Cleo tries to smooth talk her way and then to guilt her mother into letting her go.
Cleo's belief is that her mom doesn't trust her and in some ways, still treats her as a child, when in fact, she'll be going off to college next year. She wants to prove to her mom that she can be trusted.
Our choices can and do have an impact on others.
July 20, 2011
I found Shattered a simple read despite its sober themes. There weren’t many plots and the storyline was straight-forward. This book deals with life issues a grieving teen faces and for a short book, it is done pretty well. More emphasis are placed on the topics of grief and drug usage. This book is just the type any teen can pick up for a leisure read. Despite it’s lack of plot complexity, it has a good ending. Its main themes and topics weren’t delved into deeply and that makes this novel easy to read. Considering grammar and the like, Shattered was well written. There was only a scene which was somewhat disjointed and vague, but other than that, there were no other problems. Overall, Shattered is an attention-grabbing story of a teenage girl’s battle against grief and guilt.
March 1, 2012
The story of how one decision led to a string of cataclysmic & destructive events. I don't want to give plot developments away; but thought Cleo's decent was realistic enough; though rather 'quick'. Also the ending & resolution to a miriad of issues in the household was too neatly packaged while not addressing more plausible feelings. That doesn't say much but I will give one word *SPOILER* addiction.
Generally though, a pretty good YA read. Just wish the author had explored the story a little further. There are questions at the end for discussion groups, which I really liked & appreciated. Perhaps the unexplored depth would be an excellent topic for teen discussion. Still recommend though.
Generally though, a pretty good YA read. Just wish the author had explored the story a little further. There are questions at the end for discussion groups, which I really liked & appreciated. Perhaps the unexplored depth would be an excellent topic for teen discussion. Still recommend though.
April 15, 2011
What can I say, it was free! :) Everything important happens within the first few chapters. Sure we got to see how those things affected her, consequences etc. But really, you kind of know it's going to turn out ok. What book have you ever read that ended like "Because of her actions... her life will always be screwed up. Nothing good ever happened and she later died of old age." It isn't a bad book, just completely predictable. I would recommend to teens, or anyone who is struggling. If you are looking for a book you just can't put down, this isn't it.
April 25, 2011
Seriously NOT a good book!! I'm sorry, but you disobeyed your mom so your mom is MURDERED?!?!?...and then you start popping pills...and then your dad blames you?? I just thought the whole story was overkill. Way too much drama. Like, I know the point of the book was to obey your parents, but the massive guilt message of "obey your mom or she might be strangled" is way over the top. And what's with the guy who claims he always liked her but never talked to her suddenly deciding NOW to want a relationship?! Pointless.
April 28, 2011
This is a real touching book. It takes you through a teenager's grief process over her mother's murder - and the guilt that her lying & sneaking placed her mother in the location that ultimately killed her. That's a big weight on anyone's shoulders, especially a teenager. It's inspiring to see how the aunt she is so annoyed & embarrassed with at the beginning ends up helping her deal with the situation the most
January 16, 2016
Having no idea this was a second in the series, it could easily have been a stand alone book, I was not lost at all.
I really enjoyed this story, though it was an emotional ride.
I have to admit, I was not surprised by the book. In most cases the guessing game has variances, but I knew what would happen throughout the whole story. A big predictable factor.
That was good though. Just for the type of story it is.
Great lessons of family loyalty in this one.
I really enjoyed this story, though it was an emotional ride.
I have to admit, I was not surprised by the book. In most cases the guessing game has variances, but I knew what would happen throughout the whole story. A big predictable factor.
That was good though. Just for the type of story it is.
Great lessons of family loyalty in this one.
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