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The Overtaking
Shayne believes he's living the ideal life.He attends a great school in the Midwest, gets along with his roommate, and has fallen for a girl who seems perfect for him.But it’s all a lie. And Shayne starts to figure it out.Danielle didn’t mean to fall in love with one of the Maslonians. She was only supposed to observe and report. But now she must choose to help Shayne...or betray him. This book is 59,000 words, 288 pages in paperback.From New York Times bestselling author of NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 25, 2017
The Overtaking is a YA science fiction story about a world from which people are being abducted. The story focuses on the teens that are abducted and placed in a false reality, and the teens that volunteered to do the abductions for altruistic reasons. Though the writing was error free, I felt that there were far too many holes in the story and too many unbelievable events and motivations. And, as is sometimes the case in YA stories, the teens are unrealistically given too many adult responsibilities. At the end of the book, much has happened, but little has been resolved. I'm not sure that I want to go on to find out what happens in the next book, when it's available.
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May 26, 2021 People started disappearing. It was discovered Dykens were kidnapping the Maslonian citizens, memory resequencing them and locating them in a Holodome which duplicates life as it appeared in the 21st-century earth. All of the Maslonians had all their memories erased and replaced with entirely new memories ensuring they were on eath. Little did they know earth had actually been destroyed by war, now little left but scorched and desolate, no vegetation, everything has been destroyed. To venture out of their Holodome for any length of time gas masks are a necessity.
The general population of Dykens also had their memories replaced by resequencing and are convinced Maslonian was actually involved in a devastating world war, on the verge of destruction. They have pledged their lives to save other worlds from what they have witnessed happening to the earth. The elite few know what is really happening. General Stott and Trenton Madison have actually deceived everyone else to their plans. Maslonians all have special powers besides being able to read minds. The Deken technology is highly advanced, they have cloaking devices which is what they used to kidnap the 27,465 citizens they have located in the Holodome until they can use their shuttles to strip the planet of minerals and vegetation to supply life back to earth. Things escalated quickly and certain citizens are regaining their powers. One is Shayne Bartlet who is an extremely powerful telepath and has other powers developing. The Dykens have stationed some of their soldiers in the Holodome acting as roommates to the Maslonians to monitor that they believe they are attending classes at an elite private college, when needed they log into their computers and update the higher-ups as to the behavior of the citizens.
Danielle explains to Shayne what she believes as to why they have invaded Maslonian. After Brady, Shayne Daken's roommate also realizes that when they landed there was no sign of destruction or that anyone was possessed with so much hate of their fellow man that they were going to wipe out civilization. What they all believed could not be true, they started to assist Danielle and Shayne to gain some of the Dyken weapons and technology to try to free the people living in the Holodome, thinking it is the 21st-century.
The general population of Dykens also had their memories replaced by resequencing and are convinced Maslonian was actually involved in a devastating world war, on the verge of destruction. They have pledged their lives to save other worlds from what they have witnessed happening to the earth. The elite few know what is really happening. General Stott and Trenton Madison have actually deceived everyone else to their plans. Maslonians all have special powers besides being able to read minds. The Deken technology is highly advanced, they have cloaking devices which is what they used to kidnap the 27,465 citizens they have located in the Holodome until they can use their shuttles to strip the planet of minerals and vegetation to supply life back to earth. Things escalated quickly and certain citizens are regaining their powers. One is Shayne Bartlet who is an extremely powerful telepath and has other powers developing. The Dykens have stationed some of their soldiers in the Holodome acting as roommates to the Maslonians to monitor that they believe they are attending classes at an elite private college, when needed they log into their computers and update the higher-ups as to the behavior of the citizens.
Danielle explains to Shayne what she believes as to why they have invaded Maslonian. After Brady, Shayne Daken's roommate also realizes that when they landed there was no sign of destruction or that anyone was possessed with so much hate of their fellow man that they were going to wipe out civilization. What they all believed could not be true, they started to assist Danielle and Shayne to gain some of the Dyken weapons and technology to try to free the people living in the Holodome, thinking it is the 21st-century.
August 18, 2025
Fascinating!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, well, not that a few favorite characters became casualties. But that’s what you get when a skilled writer spins a new story. I’ glad The author didn’t use a pen name to stretch her talent into a new genre. Filled with characters you will love and some you will hate, this book appeals to readers who follow either science fiction/fantasy or romance. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, well, not that a few favorite characters became casualties. But that’s what you get when a skilled writer spins a new story. I’ glad The author didn’t use a pen name to stretch her talent into a new genre. Filled with characters you will love and some you will hate, this book appeals to readers who follow either science fiction/fantasy or romance. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
December 22, 2022
This was an awesome sci-fi novel! I raced through it! I loved the premise and the twists and the characters. However, I just found out it was written 11 years ago and the rest of the series obviously hasn’t followed. I’m devastated!
June 4, 2020
Great Book Great author
Great Book. I have read a lot of her books, each one just as special as the last. Check her out.
Great Book. I have read a lot of her books, each one just as special as the last. Check her out.
May 18, 2011
Victorine E. Lieske, author of the romantic suspense novel NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS, changes gears in her sophomore outing ... kind of. While THE OVERTAKING features both romance and suspense, it shifts gears in two important ways: she adopts a science fiction setting for this novel, and due to the age of her characters, the book is likely to attract more of a young-adult audience.
THE OVERTAKING is the first novel in a projected series which introduces us to the primary cast of characters. Shayne Bartlett, our main protagonist, is a young member of the Maslonian race, highly gifted with psychic abilities. Yet in short order, Shayne's mother is kidnapped, he joins a ruling council, and then he is kidnapped as well. In his new, post-kidnapping life, where he does not remember his past, he meets Danielle and the two are powerfully drawn to each other.
But Danielle is mysterious, a young woman with secrets to hide. Secrets that may affect the future of their budding relationship... and perhaps even the future of Shayne's race.
So THE OVERTAKING does have major differences from NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS, in genre, plot, and setting. What has not changed, however, is Lieske's storytelling ability and her capacity for charming readers with the way in which a pair of strangers become a couple.
The novel contains echoes of literary and filmed forebears. Some of the SF concepts will ring familiar to those who've read Phillip K. Dick's WE CAN DREAM IT FOR YOU WHOLESALE, while other aspects could remind filmgoers of the Bill Murray-Andie McDowell rom-com, GROUNDHOG DAY.
Yet through it all, the story elements blend into a finished product that is distinctly of Lieske's own making. While readers of NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS, which took place in a recognizably realistic world, may feel some need for adjustment to the new setting, the primarily strengths of Lieske's storytelling remain consistent and recognizable in this new entry.
One element that is new is that THE OVERTAKING is part of a series. Readers of NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS enjoyed that novels strong sense of possessing a beginning, a middle, and an end. While THE OVERTAKING possess a strong beginning and an entertaining middle, the sense of ending isn't as strong as in NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS because the overall story is not complete.
When the final page of NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS was turned, there was a sense that the tale of Steven Ashton and Emily Grant was over, at least dramatically. With THE OVERTAKING, there is a sense of resolution to many plot elements, but also a certain knowledge that more challenges lay ahead for Shayne, Danielle, and those around them.
Fortunately, Lieske's novel ends on a story beat that delivers a sense of resolution, even as new threats and challenges await on the horizon. This is superior to some YA series novels, which often seem to end too abruptly, at a moment in which the author hit a pre-set word count and didn't want to write more words per installment than necessary. While I won't spoil the nature of THE OVERTAKING's closing action here, I will at least say that the story beat on which the novel ends will not leave readers feeling like the book "went to commercial and never came back."
Will THE OVERTAKING leave readers ready for the next installment? Almost certainly. Yet even as the further adventures of the cast Lieske introduces here are of interest, this novel stands, at minimum, as a satisfying read in and of itself as well.
Well done.
THE OVERTAKING is the first novel in a projected series which introduces us to the primary cast of characters. Shayne Bartlett, our main protagonist, is a young member of the Maslonian race, highly gifted with psychic abilities. Yet in short order, Shayne's mother is kidnapped, he joins a ruling council, and then he is kidnapped as well. In his new, post-kidnapping life, where he does not remember his past, he meets Danielle and the two are powerfully drawn to each other.
But Danielle is mysterious, a young woman with secrets to hide. Secrets that may affect the future of their budding relationship... and perhaps even the future of Shayne's race.
So THE OVERTAKING does have major differences from NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS, in genre, plot, and setting. What has not changed, however, is Lieske's storytelling ability and her capacity for charming readers with the way in which a pair of strangers become a couple.
The novel contains echoes of literary and filmed forebears. Some of the SF concepts will ring familiar to those who've read Phillip K. Dick's WE CAN DREAM IT FOR YOU WHOLESALE, while other aspects could remind filmgoers of the Bill Murray-Andie McDowell rom-com, GROUNDHOG DAY.
Yet through it all, the story elements blend into a finished product that is distinctly of Lieske's own making. While readers of NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS, which took place in a recognizably realistic world, may feel some need for adjustment to the new setting, the primarily strengths of Lieske's storytelling remain consistent and recognizable in this new entry.
One element that is new is that THE OVERTAKING is part of a series. Readers of NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS enjoyed that novels strong sense of possessing a beginning, a middle, and an end. While THE OVERTAKING possess a strong beginning and an entertaining middle, the sense of ending isn't as strong as in NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS because the overall story is not complete.
When the final page of NOT WHAT SHE SEEMS was turned, there was a sense that the tale of Steven Ashton and Emily Grant was over, at least dramatically. With THE OVERTAKING, there is a sense of resolution to many plot elements, but also a certain knowledge that more challenges lay ahead for Shayne, Danielle, and those around them.
Fortunately, Lieske's novel ends on a story beat that delivers a sense of resolution, even as new threats and challenges await on the horizon. This is superior to some YA series novels, which often seem to end too abruptly, at a moment in which the author hit a pre-set word count and didn't want to write more words per installment than necessary. While I won't spoil the nature of THE OVERTAKING's closing action here, I will at least say that the story beat on which the novel ends will not leave readers feeling like the book "went to commercial and never came back."
Will THE OVERTAKING leave readers ready for the next installment? Almost certainly. Yet even as the further adventures of the cast Lieske introduces here are of interest, this novel stands, at minimum, as a satisfying read in and of itself as well.
Well done.
May 11, 2012
The Overtaking is a wonderful book that will make you think and keep you guessing the whole time. There are several things that I loved! One was the characters, and how they all came to know one another. Second is the story line. I would never be able to think up a place like this, with all of their powers and gadgets. It was really incredible. Third I loved how the author used great voice. I could always tell who was talking, even when if it didn’t say. The ideas in this book combine our world with others that we only dreamed of happening, and I think that is the reason I could not put the book down.
The characters in this story were incredible. Shayne was like someone out of a fairy tale book. He looked great, had amazing powers, and was noble and brave. This made him easy to love! Danielle was the Dyken who kidnapped Shayne. Throughout the book, Danielle dates Shayne because she needs to keep an eye on him. While keeping an eye on him, she feels she needs o confess her past because she is falling in love with him. But she hides it from him because she is still a Dyken and must be loyal to the mission. Later when Shayne’s powers keep appearing again, she confesses to him, and he finds that he loves her to. They also have two best friends named Jennaya and Brady. They help them figure out the truth about what is happening to their people. Throughout this book, you learn to love the characters.
In the story, the Dyken people are kidnapping the Maslonians. They are told that if they don’t kidnap, reprogram (erased their memories and replace them), and put them in a special facility, the Maslonians will kill their race. So they do just that. They have a little trouble kidnapping the Maslonians because they have special powers. From there, the story goes on. This is a really interesting because no other book has this same story line. It makes you think in a new way. That is one reason that makes this book so great.
While reading this book, you could always tell who was speaking. The reason for that is that the author put great voice into the book. Shayne was always trying to help Danielle. Danielle was always wondering what Shayne would think of her. Jennaya was thinking about how cute people were, and Brady was wondering how they were going to complete their plan. All of the other characters had distinct voices as well, but those were the main ones. This book is nice because it is an easy read, and the voice shows through to keep you interested.
The story line in this book is brilliant. The characters are great, and there is tons of voice. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a quick, easy, and entertaining read. The book always kept me guessing, and none of my guesses were correct. The Overtaking will surprise you on every page. This is a book that I think everyone should read.
The characters in this story were incredible. Shayne was like someone out of a fairy tale book. He looked great, had amazing powers, and was noble and brave. This made him easy to love! Danielle was the Dyken who kidnapped Shayne. Throughout the book, Danielle dates Shayne because she needs to keep an eye on him. While keeping an eye on him, she feels she needs o confess her past because she is falling in love with him. But she hides it from him because she is still a Dyken and must be loyal to the mission. Later when Shayne’s powers keep appearing again, she confesses to him, and he finds that he loves her to. They also have two best friends named Jennaya and Brady. They help them figure out the truth about what is happening to their people. Throughout this book, you learn to love the characters.
In the story, the Dyken people are kidnapping the Maslonians. They are told that if they don’t kidnap, reprogram (erased their memories and replace them), and put them in a special facility, the Maslonians will kill their race. So they do just that. They have a little trouble kidnapping the Maslonians because they have special powers. From there, the story goes on. This is a really interesting because no other book has this same story line. It makes you think in a new way. That is one reason that makes this book so great.
While reading this book, you could always tell who was speaking. The reason for that is that the author put great voice into the book. Shayne was always trying to help Danielle. Danielle was always wondering what Shayne would think of her. Jennaya was thinking about how cute people were, and Brady was wondering how they were going to complete their plan. All of the other characters had distinct voices as well, but those were the main ones. This book is nice because it is an easy read, and the voice shows through to keep you interested.
The story line in this book is brilliant. The characters are great, and there is tons of voice. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a quick, easy, and entertaining read. The book always kept me guessing, and none of my guesses were correct. The Overtaking will surprise you on every page. This is a book that I think everyone should read.
July 28, 2011
I received this ARC from the author and was very pleased. I couldn't put it down and finished it in two days. Ms. Lieske had told me that it was a love story, I was taking a chance because I'm not really a reader of love stories. However, I don't think I would label it a love story...I would say that it's Sci/Fi that happens to have a sweet little love story in it.
My favorite quote: Shayne Bartlet has been kidnapped, his powers disabled and his memory altered. He's not having a good day. And he doesn't even know it yet.
That quote told me that I would love this. I mean, imagine if your memory was altered. You would just go one believing you were whomever you were programmed to be and wouldn't know you hated mushrooms and loved olives! Ok, so that's a little silly, but you wouldn't even know your family and friends!
There's a wide variety of characters, both good and evil. I would have liked to see the characters other than the main two (Shayne and Danielle) fleshed out a little more, but I'm hoping that will happen in Book 2. Shayne is from a planet where the people have psychic powers and are peaceful. Danielle is from a planet that was all but destroyed and they have no powers. It's boy meets girl with a twist. Shayne doesn't know Danielle is part of the population that has altered his memory and she can't tell him. She really likes him and keeps trying to protect him, but is finally punished by her people for helping him - by having her memories altered.
The one thing that really stood out about this story was the lack of sexual situations. I was very happy to see that. The more YA I read, the more I think that there's entirely too much sex in them. Ms. Lieske brought it back to where it should be...the excitement of just holding hands or a simple kiss. Honestly, the majority of teens I know don't act like some of the teens in the books I've read. These teens come across as natural and honest.
I felt that the writing overall was smooth and you jump right into the story on Page 1. I know some people like a little background before they really get going, but I love to jump right in and figure it out as I go. That will hold my interest a lot better, right away. I liked all the scientific tools and am dying to find out what they were doing to all the Maslonians (Shayne's people) in that lab!
I love the ending! It was conclusive enough that you can read it as a stand alone story, but it definitely leaves an opening for the second book to pick up. I'm very excited to read the next book and see where the rebel force (that's what I'm calling them) goes and what they do to save their people.
My favorite quote: Shayne Bartlet has been kidnapped, his powers disabled and his memory altered. He's not having a good day. And he doesn't even know it yet.
That quote told me that I would love this. I mean, imagine if your memory was altered. You would just go one believing you were whomever you were programmed to be and wouldn't know you hated mushrooms and loved olives! Ok, so that's a little silly, but you wouldn't even know your family and friends!
There's a wide variety of characters, both good and evil. I would have liked to see the characters other than the main two (Shayne and Danielle) fleshed out a little more, but I'm hoping that will happen in Book 2. Shayne is from a planet where the people have psychic powers and are peaceful. Danielle is from a planet that was all but destroyed and they have no powers. It's boy meets girl with a twist. Shayne doesn't know Danielle is part of the population that has altered his memory and she can't tell him. She really likes him and keeps trying to protect him, but is finally punished by her people for helping him - by having her memories altered.
The one thing that really stood out about this story was the lack of sexual situations. I was very happy to see that. The more YA I read, the more I think that there's entirely too much sex in them. Ms. Lieske brought it back to where it should be...the excitement of just holding hands or a simple kiss. Honestly, the majority of teens I know don't act like some of the teens in the books I've read. These teens come across as natural and honest.
I felt that the writing overall was smooth and you jump right into the story on Page 1. I know some people like a little background before they really get going, but I love to jump right in and figure it out as I go. That will hold my interest a lot better, right away. I liked all the scientific tools and am dying to find out what they were doing to all the Maslonians (Shayne's people) in that lab!
I love the ending! It was conclusive enough that you can read it as a stand alone story, but it definitely leaves an opening for the second book to pick up. I'm very excited to read the next book and see where the rebel force (that's what I'm calling them) goes and what they do to save their people.
December 26, 2011
This is a good book. The Overtaking is a light, fun read with excellent pacing; I started and finished it in a single day. Young adult books are not my primary reading genre, but I'm glad I took the time to read this one.
At the beginning of The Overtaking, the Maslonian people are disappearing one by one. The Maslonian Council wants to get to the bottom of it. After his mother's disappearance (in the book's opening scene), Shayne joins the Council and is promptly thereafter kidnapped. Then, he is in another world thinking he has had completely different life than the one he actually had. But Shayne is resistant to the new memories, and he discovers he has hidden memories and powers. His powers reveal the thoughts of those around him, and he knows that some of the people around him are lying to him . . . about everything. All the while, there's a growing romantic connection between Shayne and one of his schoolmates, Danielle, who seems to be mixed up in all of this.
How did Shane get to this new place with these new memories? What is Danielle's involvement? What is happening to the Malsonian people as they disappear? And most importantly, why is someone doing this to Shayne and his people?
In my opinion, the best thing about this book is the pacing. My time reading it flew right by, because it was light and never dragged any scene along more than necessary. The characters were fine; perhaps a little one-dimensional, but like I said, it was a light read. The writing was solid for the most part, although there were a number of times (maybe fifteen or so) that I was abruptly thrown out of my suspension of disbelief by some cliche word choices. But I've spent a lot of time editing novels lately, so maybe that's just me.
People should be reading this book. Not all people, of course, but those who are into young adult, paranormal stuff. I know the author is out there trying to get this book on more shelves, so the question is: why aren't people reading it? I think a large part of that has to do with the book's official description. When this book was first brought to my attention, I read the description, and I was not at all excited about reading the book. The description is just . . . vague. Sure, you don't want it to give too much away, but this this description even shies away from disclosing stuff that was known by the second chapter. I don't want to read a book when I have no idea what's coming.
Dear author: Your book is good. I want more people to read it. Please change the description. Please. Sincerely, Alicia.
At the beginning of The Overtaking, the Maslonian people are disappearing one by one. The Maslonian Council wants to get to the bottom of it. After his mother's disappearance (in the book's opening scene), Shayne joins the Council and is promptly thereafter kidnapped. Then, he is in another world thinking he has had completely different life than the one he actually had. But Shayne is resistant to the new memories, and he discovers he has hidden memories and powers. His powers reveal the thoughts of those around him, and he knows that some of the people around him are lying to him . . . about everything. All the while, there's a growing romantic connection between Shayne and one of his schoolmates, Danielle, who seems to be mixed up in all of this.
How did Shane get to this new place with these new memories? What is Danielle's involvement? What is happening to the Malsonian people as they disappear? And most importantly, why is someone doing this to Shayne and his people?
In my opinion, the best thing about this book is the pacing. My time reading it flew right by, because it was light and never dragged any scene along more than necessary. The characters were fine; perhaps a little one-dimensional, but like I said, it was a light read. The writing was solid for the most part, although there were a number of times (maybe fifteen or so) that I was abruptly thrown out of my suspension of disbelief by some cliche word choices. But I've spent a lot of time editing novels lately, so maybe that's just me.
People should be reading this book. Not all people, of course, but those who are into young adult, paranormal stuff. I know the author is out there trying to get this book on more shelves, so the question is: why aren't people reading it? I think a large part of that has to do with the book's official description. When this book was first brought to my attention, I read the description, and I was not at all excited about reading the book. The description is just . . . vague. Sure, you don't want it to give too much away, but this this description even shies away from disclosing stuff that was known by the second chapter. I don't want to read a book when I have no idea what's coming.
Dear author: Your book is good. I want more people to read it. Please change the description. Please. Sincerely, Alicia.
May 28, 2011
** SPOILER ALERT ** Be advised I have included some minor spoilers below.
Since I don’t haunt the Young Adult romance aisle of the bookstore, I wasn't sure what to expect when I read this novel. What I got was an enjoyable read and characters I truly cared for. Shayne and Danielle are strong, likeable characters put into an interesting and twisty situation. Danielle and her people have been kidnapping people from Shayne's world for a long time. Now Danielle is hunting for Shayne while he is trying to stop them.
In the process of them dealing with their divergent goals, they fall in love. They also encounter other honorable people and villains. These secondary characters didn't have the same depth and development as the primary characters. For the most part that isn't a major problem, however I would have liked to have seen them more fleshed out.
Since this story is a romance and not science fiction, I kept a more open mind when it came to some of the futuristic plot elements. A few of them had me raising an eyebrow, they didn't detract from the romance storyline.
I would have liked to see a bit more ambiguity when figuring out who the bad guys were. I think that would've helped ratchet up the action and conflict. Maybe that is not the way Young Adult Romance handles things. Again, this really didn't detract from the story for me.
I liked this book a lot and none of the issues I mentioned really slowed me down as I read the story.
I'll have my eye on Victorine and will grab the her next book when it comes out.
Since I don’t haunt the Young Adult romance aisle of the bookstore, I wasn't sure what to expect when I read this novel. What I got was an enjoyable read and characters I truly cared for. Shayne and Danielle are strong, likeable characters put into an interesting and twisty situation. Danielle and her people have been kidnapping people from Shayne's world for a long time. Now Danielle is hunting for Shayne while he is trying to stop them.
In the process of them dealing with their divergent goals, they fall in love. They also encounter other honorable people and villains. These secondary characters didn't have the same depth and development as the primary characters. For the most part that isn't a major problem, however I would have liked to have seen them more fleshed out.
Since this story is a romance and not science fiction, I kept a more open mind when it came to some of the futuristic plot elements. A few of them had me raising an eyebrow, they didn't detract from the romance storyline.
I would have liked to see a bit more ambiguity when figuring out who the bad guys were. I think that would've helped ratchet up the action and conflict. Maybe that is not the way Young Adult Romance handles things. Again, this really didn't detract from the story for me.
I liked this book a lot and none of the issues I mentioned really slowed me down as I read the story.
I'll have my eye on Victorine and will grab the her next book when it comes out.
May 25, 2011
Although I hate to say it, I was somewhat underwhelmed by this book. I had high hopes because I've heard good things about Lieske, but I just never connected with this book. I read a lot of YA and enjoy fantasy and scifi, so I thought this book would be right up my alley, but I was never sucked into the story...never able to forget I was reading a book. You know how when you're reading a book that you really connect with, you can lose yourself in the story? I was never able to lose myself.
It wasn't a bad story. I thought the premise was interesting. Being a comic book fan, I enjoyed the idea of the characters having powers, but it would have been nice to see the powers used a little bit more. It sounds like the powers may play a more key role in later books, so maybe I'm just impatient ;)
With a romance central to the story's plot, I didn't "believe" it. Yes, the characters are young and therefore may be forgiven for acting silly, but it still seemed a bit fast to be throwing around the "L" word after only a few dates. Since this story is obviously going to take up more than one book, I think the romance aspect may have worked better for me if it had been a slower build up across the whole trilogy/series(?).
This is also a small nitpick, and maybe it's a regional thing, but Shayne spelled like that makes me think of a girl's name.
Note: I read a free review copy from author
It wasn't a bad story. I thought the premise was interesting. Being a comic book fan, I enjoyed the idea of the characters having powers, but it would have been nice to see the powers used a little bit more. It sounds like the powers may play a more key role in later books, so maybe I'm just impatient ;)
With a romance central to the story's plot, I didn't "believe" it. Yes, the characters are young and therefore may be forgiven for acting silly, but it still seemed a bit fast to be throwing around the "L" word after only a few dates. Since this story is obviously going to take up more than one book, I think the romance aspect may have worked better for me if it had been a slower build up across the whole trilogy/series(?).
This is also a small nitpick, and maybe it's a regional thing, but Shayne spelled like that makes me think of a girl's name.
Note: I read a free review copy from author
August 10, 2011
I have read so much fantasy lately that I really had to work to get my mind to switch gears for this book. Once I grasped the storyline it was hard to put this book down.
I like how the book delves into a bit of how our perception of the truth may not in fact be the truth. Even as the book progresses it seems that the truth the characters perceive is still not the whole deal. It was also interesting to see how the characters approached dealing with many layers of deception and confusion.
The romantic section of this book was a bit interesting. What would it be like to have the guy you like being able to know just about everything you think? Would that hinder the relationship? Keep in mind that it isn't a two way street. You are left with your own interpretations. I guess luckily in this case the guy doesn't seem to be too full of himself over it. On top of that in many ways it really seemed to ease the relationship through the awkward moments. They sure became rather committed fast especially considering the number of times they had to start from scratch.
All in all it was a well paced book that was hard to put down. Even in my dreams I think my mind was trying to figure out what was going to happen next. By the end of the book they are in a pretty tight spot. I really do wonder what will become of all of them. In my opinion is sure doesn't look good. I guess we will just have to wait and see.
I like how the book delves into a bit of how our perception of the truth may not in fact be the truth. Even as the book progresses it seems that the truth the characters perceive is still not the whole deal. It was also interesting to see how the characters approached dealing with many layers of deception and confusion.
The romantic section of this book was a bit interesting. What would it be like to have the guy you like being able to know just about everything you think? Would that hinder the relationship? Keep in mind that it isn't a two way street. You are left with your own interpretations. I guess luckily in this case the guy doesn't seem to be too full of himself over it. On top of that in many ways it really seemed to ease the relationship through the awkward moments. They sure became rather committed fast especially considering the number of times they had to start from scratch.
All in all it was a well paced book that was hard to put down. Even in my dreams I think my mind was trying to figure out what was going to happen next. By the end of the book they are in a pretty tight spot. I really do wonder what will become of all of them. In my opinion is sure doesn't look good. I guess we will just have to wait and see.
June 21, 2011
I received this as a Review Copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
This was such a fun and clever little book. I really loved how the plot unfolded its mysteries in sprinkles over the course of the story. Definitely made me want to keep reading. The characters were easy to sympathize with and I ended up really liking them. Especially Shayne, the main character.
This is adult fiction (although, the characters are in their late teens) free of profanity and sexual situations, but does have a bit of violence. Nothing too frightening, though. It's always a pleasure to read something like this since it's a bit rare these days.
THE OVERTAKING is a perfect mixture of sweet romance, adventure, and mystery all wrapped up into one really fascinating sci-fi premise. I won't say what that is, since it'll spoil it, but read it to discover for yourself. Don't be turned off if you don't enjoy science fiction. You won't have to worry about gadgets and gizmos and a bunch of 'sciencey' stuff that requires you to crack open a text book to understand it. This is a sci-fi novel that even non-sci-fi fans can get into.
This was such a fun and clever little book. I really loved how the plot unfolded its mysteries in sprinkles over the course of the story. Definitely made me want to keep reading. The characters were easy to sympathize with and I ended up really liking them. Especially Shayne, the main character.
This is adult fiction (although, the characters are in their late teens) free of profanity and sexual situations, but does have a bit of violence. Nothing too frightening, though. It's always a pleasure to read something like this since it's a bit rare these days.
THE OVERTAKING is a perfect mixture of sweet romance, adventure, and mystery all wrapped up into one really fascinating sci-fi premise. I won't say what that is, since it'll spoil it, but read it to discover for yourself. Don't be turned off if you don't enjoy science fiction. You won't have to worry about gadgets and gizmos and a bunch of 'sciencey' stuff that requires you to crack open a text book to understand it. This is a sci-fi novel that even non-sci-fi fans can get into.
June 2, 2013
YA SFR. A group of cloaked aliens is kidnapping people "for their own good", during which a solider falls for her victim.
The good: I liked the characters. I liked the premise. There were twists and turns I didn't see coming. The Romance was sweet and believable to me, particularly considering both main characters were teenagers.
A sidenote: I read the short story The Gathering first. If I hadn't I don't know if I'd have enjoyed this story as much since it really seems like it should have been the first chapter of this story, being the MC's meeting and all. I have no idea why it wasn't included in this story since it IS referred to but I don't remember it being summarized in this story. So if you didn't read it first you might not really get what the heroine is so upset about.
The bad: The pov does jump around a bit, not something I'm used to in an SFR. But some of it is necessary I think. There were a few misspellings though most of the editing is really good.
Overall, I enjoyed this story, cared about the main two characters, and enjoyed the plot.
The good: I liked the characters. I liked the premise. There were twists and turns I didn't see coming. The Romance was sweet and believable to me, particularly considering both main characters were teenagers.
A sidenote: I read the short story The Gathering first. If I hadn't I don't know if I'd have enjoyed this story as much since it really seems like it should have been the first chapter of this story, being the MC's meeting and all. I have no idea why it wasn't included in this story since it IS referred to but I don't remember it being summarized in this story. So if you didn't read it first you might not really get what the heroine is so upset about.
The bad: The pov does jump around a bit, not something I'm used to in an SFR. But some of it is necessary I think. There were a few misspellings though most of the editing is really good.
Overall, I enjoyed this story, cared about the main two characters, and enjoyed the plot.
February 18, 2013
This is complicated - all the bad guys hold all the power, knowledge, and resources. Every time someone figures it out, the baddies just swoop in and erase their memories and the process starts all over again. Well, except that the evil plot has furthered itself, making it even harder to the good guys to gain any momentum. While I liked the plot, the story moved too slowly and I didn't really related to any of the characters. Also the romance in the book is so superficial; not necessarily based on looks, they just fall for each other with no explanation.
Read
March 24, 2016The book is nice. The way Victorine has easily changed the narrative with respect to to the characters is quite good and is done quite fluently. Also, the perception of truth is written very well clearly. It proves that what the truth is believed to be may not be the truth always but just a new and different side can be shown as per what is to be achieved.
The romance part is quite shown in a light and effective way. I especially love the way the two of them meet :) and way both of them fall for each other all over again and again :)
The romance part is quite shown in a light and effective way. I especially love the way the two of them meet :) and way both of them fall for each other all over again and again :)
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March 11, 2012Talking heads, head hopping, and erratic pacing left me confused most of the time as I read this book. Scene changes never left me feeling grounded and I found myself constantly having to go back and reread to try to sort through whose point of view I was supposed to be following and where we were. The romantic elements were cheesy and poorly developed. No true romantic tension at all between Danielle and Shayne, names that also didn't work for the genre.
December 14, 2011
Delightful sci-fi romance and great start to an engaging series. Victorine Lieske has gathered a personable cast of characters, Shayne, Danielle, Nolan, Celeste, Jennaya, Kellec, Asia, and Gita to fight an evil empire bent on mind controlling a peaceful planet and raiding it for their resources.
I look forward to the next book and a continuing series as this fight will take many episodes to resolve.
I look forward to the next book and a continuing series as this fight will take many episodes to resolve.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2016
The Overtaking is an inspired young adult novel in the realm of "Hunger Games" style. It was easy to like the main character, Shayne, and after Danielle wised up, it became easy to like her too. There was a decent story to this that left you wondering what will happen as you read it. I found when I was finished I wanted to read the next one instantly, only to find it wasn't out yet. Kudos to Lieske for the creativeness in this novel and boo for making us wait!
December 29, 2011
The Overtaking is another book with a great mix of sci-fi/dystopian genres. The romance was great, with two likable characters of Shanye and Danielle. The slight twist, revealed near the end of the book, makes you pause and think. This is the 1st book in a series. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series!
January 30, 2012
This was a good story and it sounded very good. what i didn't like was how it just jumped all over the place, and introduced all this random characters who only turned out to be of any relevance at the end.
It got slightly confusing keeping track of who had what memories, but it was a good book and i did like it.
It got slightly confusing keeping track of who had what memories, but it was a good book and i did like it.
October 18, 2012
Even though I'm not much into sci-fi stories, I gave this one a chance because I know the author. I was surprisingly enthralled. The characters didn't seem out of the ordinary even though they had telepathic and telekinetic abilities. Even though aspects of it were pretty technical, it was easy to follow and pleasant to read.
Now I find myself anxiously awaiting the rest of the series.
Now I find myself anxiously awaiting the rest of the series.
June 27, 2011
4.5 Stars!!
Review to come along with a giveaway and interview from the author on my blog later this week!!
http://myguiltyobsession.blogspot.com/
Don't miss it!!
Link to contest: http://myguiltyobsession.blogspot.com...
Review to come along with a giveaway and interview from the author on my blog later this week!!
http://myguiltyobsession.blogspot.com/
Don't miss it!!
Link to contest: http://myguiltyobsession.blogspot.com...
October 1, 2013
I was given this book to read from a friend. She enjoyed it and thought I would too. She was right! I did!!
It's a bit of sci-fi, dystopia, and romance rolled together. I just wish it had been longer!!
Hurry and write the sequel(s) Ms. Lieske!!
It's a bit of sci-fi, dystopia, and romance rolled together. I just wish it had been longer!!
Hurry and write the sequel(s) Ms. Lieske!!
May 28, 2011
A fast paced, imaginative read, and I can't wait for book two.
August 13, 2011
character development is light for me. relationship basis seemed rush and shallow considering what they had to give up
December 31, 2011
Really liked this one. Clever and fast paced. Ending page was a bit cheesy and the good guys took too many hits there at the end, but really enjoyed.
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March 11, 2012See my review on the other listing.
April 3, 2014
I read this probably 2 1/2 years ago and I really liked it. this author is one to read. I think I have all her writing on Kindle.
February 23, 2016
I liked the first half quite well and became quite caught up in the story so, when my interest flagged a bit in the second half, I kept reading to the end. I do not think I want to read book 2.
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