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Cicada #1
Cicada
Summertime for Blair Reynolds and her friends had always been carefree and fun... until the summer they happened upon something that was not human. As they band together in a fight for their lives, Blair's true love becomes something more than human. Something unnatural. And their entire survival depends upon their ability to keep a secret.
235 pages, Nook
First published July 14, 2011
7 people are currently reading
927 people want to read
About the author
Belle Whittington
5 books206 followersBelle resides somewhere north of Houston, Texas in a small inconsequential town with the smallest most inconsequential name. There, in the shady reaches of the pines, elms, and oaks, she daydreams of adventures and secrets that she weaves throughout her stories.
Belle adores her readers and fans. <3
Belle adores her readers and fans. <3
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 11, 2011
When you see a paranormal YA novel, you figure it's going to be about angels, vampires, faeries, you know, the usual. What we don't see often is something more along the lines of extraterrestrials. Cicada is one of those. It's a bit strange at times, but It's original and very imaginative.
The story starts pretty quickly with no messing around. We get thrown into Blair's life in the start of what has to be the strangest summer of her life. I did like the characters, in that they weren't annoying or irritating, but I couldn't really connect with them. I can't pinpoint exactly why, but there were a few minor details that I took notice of. The most prominent being the dialogue which was a bit too sophisticated or even professional for their age group. For example, I noticed contractions weren't used very much, and you don't usually hear teenagers say "I am here" as opposed to "I'm here". Some readers may not even notice this, but I found it made them sound less natural. That's not the only reason why I couldn't connect with Blair and the others, though. I couldn't really get a picture of them in my head, especially Blair. I think if the book would have been longer and, thus, with more character development we would have gotten to know them better. I found myself not being able to give them distinct personalities.
The plot itself was pretty fun. The first half of the book is spent trying to decipher the mystery behind Blair's dreams and what they saw in her grandfather's woods. It was pretty exciting and I was creeped out a few times. It had a good steady pace that kept the story intriguing without revealing too much. This is the first in a series, and as it was more of a build-up, we didn't get a lot a of explanations and I was a bit disappointed by that. I wish we'd at least gotten further details about the Cicada and their purpose. We did find out what was lurking in the woods, but we're definitely left with more than a few questions at the end. It could make for a good revelatory sequel.
For a debut novel it's not a bad start. Cicada is a fairly short book - a bit over 200 pages - that kept my attention throughout even though I wish it had a bit more substance. There is room for improvement, but it was still an entertaining story.
The story starts pretty quickly with no messing around. We get thrown into Blair's life in the start of what has to be the strangest summer of her life. I did like the characters, in that they weren't annoying or irritating, but I couldn't really connect with them. I can't pinpoint exactly why, but there were a few minor details that I took notice of. The most prominent being the dialogue which was a bit too sophisticated or even professional for their age group. For example, I noticed contractions weren't used very much, and you don't usually hear teenagers say "I am here" as opposed to "I'm here". Some readers may not even notice this, but I found it made them sound less natural. That's not the only reason why I couldn't connect with Blair and the others, though. I couldn't really get a picture of them in my head, especially Blair. I think if the book would have been longer and, thus, with more character development we would have gotten to know them better. I found myself not being able to give them distinct personalities.
The plot itself was pretty fun. The first half of the book is spent trying to decipher the mystery behind Blair's dreams and what they saw in her grandfather's woods. It was pretty exciting and I was creeped out a few times. It had a good steady pace that kept the story intriguing without revealing too much. This is the first in a series, and as it was more of a build-up, we didn't get a lot a of explanations and I was a bit disappointed by that. I wish we'd at least gotten further details about the Cicada and their purpose. We did find out what was lurking in the woods, but we're definitely left with more than a few questions at the end. It could make for a good revelatory sequel.
For a debut novel it's not a bad start. Cicada is a fairly short book - a bit over 200 pages - that kept my attention throughout even though I wish it had a bit more substance. There is room for improvement, but it was still an entertaining story.
April 27, 2015
✴✴✴✴✴ Nic's Review✴✴✴✴✴
I wasn't sure what I was going to think when I began this book....... This book was awesome and I couldn't put it down. I'm not much for space aliens but Belle Whittington sure did know how to capture my attention and keep it. Thanks for the lovely read. I would definitely recommend this book. I already started her second book Firefly, as soon as I finished this one. I love the characters, the banter and the suspense.
I wasn't sure what I was going to think when I began this book....... This book was awesome and I couldn't put it down. I'm not much for space aliens but Belle Whittington sure did know how to capture my attention and keep it. Thanks for the lovely read. I would definitely recommend this book. I already started her second book Firefly, as soon as I finished this one. I love the characters, the banter and the suspense.
August 28, 2011
This story will keep you reading to the end and anxiously waiting for the other two parts to the trilogy. The characters are engaging and the locations described beautifully. The building love story is heartwarming and adds to the paranormal suspenseful experience. While apparently geared towards YA, I found this book a great read and recommend it.
September 20, 2012
Belle Whittington sent me Cicada for review. From the first pages, I started to love it. And after I finished it, I was so captivated with it that I had an idea – a kernel, which developed nicely and grew into a publishing campaign. I talked with my fellows, Sabryy and Ramo, about my idea, and they loved it. Then, I talked to Belle about our intention to create a publishing campaign for Cicada. As you can guess, her answer was a positive one, even impressively good for us, and at the same time for you. Belle is super excited about the campaign. We feel the same, and we hope that our effort will not be in vain. And we hope that other readers will have the opportunity to enjoy Cicada in Romanian!
The book description intrigued me from the beginning. Why I am saying this? Because, usually, the book description gives us more detail about what are we are going to read in the book. In this case, things are a little different. And as we all know, a book without a description is like a bottomless bag. First, I will relate to the book description as it is. Afterward, I will tell you about her subject, about what I think is special about it, and what attracted me the most.
Summertime for Blair Reynolds and her friends had always been carefree and fun... until the summer they happened upon something that was not human. As they band together in a fight for their lives, Blair's true love becomes something more than human. Something unnatural. And their survival depends entirely upon their ability to keep a secret.
The novel presents us with the summer adventures of a group of friends. The action takes place in Willis, Texas. The adventures start after the graduation of Blair’s friends. Blair is the youngest in the group. Because of this, she feels a little abandoned and left out. Following the end of the summer, she will remain alone in the same town while her best friends, even her brother, to whom she is very close, leave her to create a future of their own.
Soon, Blair and her friends find themselves in the midst of a weird discovery: a crop circle, perfectly created in the grass. Investigating the place, referring to the famous “haunted forest,” they discover something: a cocoon! This cocoon is not an ordinary one, like the butterflies or other insects; it is one of extraterrestrial origin. As time passes, the creature inside the cocoon starts to transform into a human being. Blair and her friends are terrified to discover that inside the cocoon grows and develops a creature who starts to look like Everett. They call the creature "Cicada," an appropriate name for this mysterious being.
Not long after this discovery, they find out that both the Cicada and Everett are in danger. The Cicada’s existence must remain a secret, but …
Can you keep a secret?
The summer seems to be one full of mysteries and adventures for our friends in the book!
Are you curious about the following adventures in the book? Well, I am not going to reveal all to you … You will have to read it! :D
After a lot of fantasy books, especially with vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures, I must tell you that this book brings a breath of fresh air. It reinvents the idea of aliens. It lets us imagine a different type of alien than the one to which we are accustomed … the ones we feared when we were kids and watched for amidst the stars in the gentle breeze of the night.
Belle’s writing style captivated me completely. Relaxed, melancholic in some parts and alert in the others, full of visual and auditory images, it represents a delight for a lover of science fiction novels!
The finale was totally unexpected, but I believe you all will adore it! I cannot say to you how eagerly I am waiting the sequel to Cicada, because you would not believe me! :D But one thing is certain Firely – the promise to be a novel full of adventures!
My favorite character is definitely Blair. I loved her behavior, her characteristics, naturalness, and her simplicity. I felt what she felt … happiness and sadness. Her feelings are well contrasted, and this also made me feel so close to this character.
I love this book with all my heart! I am telling you this with all the sincerity and my soul. Belle came with a captivating fantasy story, a story about love and about the importance of friendship.
If I made you curious about it, please do not forget: it worth reading it and rereading it! :D It will delight you!
The book description intrigued me from the beginning. Why I am saying this? Because, usually, the book description gives us more detail about what are we are going to read in the book. In this case, things are a little different. And as we all know, a book without a description is like a bottomless bag. First, I will relate to the book description as it is. Afterward, I will tell you about her subject, about what I think is special about it, and what attracted me the most.
Summertime for Blair Reynolds and her friends had always been carefree and fun... until the summer they happened upon something that was not human. As they band together in a fight for their lives, Blair's true love becomes something more than human. Something unnatural. And their survival depends entirely upon their ability to keep a secret.
The novel presents us with the summer adventures of a group of friends. The action takes place in Willis, Texas. The adventures start after the graduation of Blair’s friends. Blair is the youngest in the group. Because of this, she feels a little abandoned and left out. Following the end of the summer, she will remain alone in the same town while her best friends, even her brother, to whom she is very close, leave her to create a future of their own.
Soon, Blair and her friends find themselves in the midst of a weird discovery: a crop circle, perfectly created in the grass. Investigating the place, referring to the famous “haunted forest,” they discover something: a cocoon! This cocoon is not an ordinary one, like the butterflies or other insects; it is one of extraterrestrial origin. As time passes, the creature inside the cocoon starts to transform into a human being. Blair and her friends are terrified to discover that inside the cocoon grows and develops a creature who starts to look like Everett. They call the creature "Cicada," an appropriate name for this mysterious being.
Not long after this discovery, they find out that both the Cicada and Everett are in danger. The Cicada’s existence must remain a secret, but …
Can you keep a secret?
The summer seems to be one full of mysteries and adventures for our friends in the book!
Are you curious about the following adventures in the book? Well, I am not going to reveal all to you … You will have to read it! :D
After a lot of fantasy books, especially with vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures, I must tell you that this book brings a breath of fresh air. It reinvents the idea of aliens. It lets us imagine a different type of alien than the one to which we are accustomed … the ones we feared when we were kids and watched for amidst the stars in the gentle breeze of the night.
Belle’s writing style captivated me completely. Relaxed, melancholic in some parts and alert in the others, full of visual and auditory images, it represents a delight for a lover of science fiction novels!
The finale was totally unexpected, but I believe you all will adore it! I cannot say to you how eagerly I am waiting the sequel to Cicada, because you would not believe me! :D But one thing is certain Firely – the promise to be a novel full of adventures!
My favorite character is definitely Blair. I loved her behavior, her characteristics, naturalness, and her simplicity. I felt what she felt … happiness and sadness. Her feelings are well contrasted, and this also made me feel so close to this character.
I love this book with all my heart! I am telling you this with all the sincerity and my soul. Belle came with a captivating fantasy story, a story about love and about the importance of friendship.
If I made you curious about it, please do not forget: it worth reading it and rereading it! :D It will delight you!
August 12, 2012
There are moments in life when keeping a secret is the most important things. No one has to know, even your best friends. Can you keep a secret?
Summer is a relaxation moment, but for Blair Reynolds, a seventeen years old teenager, summer is not what she was expecting to be. Her friends leave, the college is starting for them, so this may be the last summer they spent together. Felling that the summer will be to short, Blair is trying to keep what’s left from his friends. Until something interferes… something that can ruin everything. A discovery in the woods next to her grandpa’s farm brings in Blair’s life and her friends a lot of troubles.
After she lost her brother and father, the only family that she has left is mom and Andrew, her brother, but something is happening with him. The boy that was everything for Blair is starting to change in something that doesn’t looks like him, but he doesn’t seems to be worried about this.
Everett is Blair’s best friend, but he is the most involved in the discovery. After she is warn through her dreams, Blair starts helping Everett to keep the secret, but he seems to be changing too.
What is happening when your friends don’t look like the old ones? What can you do when you have no one to speak with? Is anybody listening to you? No. You have to clear things up by yourself.
Cicada is the first book from tree. It presents the young protagonist making her way out from the shell, the changes that she is been through and the life shed living been forced to keep the secret. Throughout the story she finds things that threaten her and needs her attention. Being a good looker she succeeds to put together the pieces from the puzzle, to the dismay of his brother who tries to take her away from what is happening. When nobody is giving her answers she finds out by herself. The question is: “What will she do when the puzzle will be finished?”
Belle Whittington removed from the light angels, vampires and werewolves that have recently ravaged the world of YA, bringing into the light a science-fiction story which doesn’t involve those creatures. The story has an action that keeps you on the book and makes your imagination work.
Although there is little romance action in the novel, you can say that is the only thing in the book. Blair and Everett have a thing for each other, but their story is not in the center of the novel, so if you cut those scenes you still have an amazing story.
The book ending left me crying. I could say what is happening, but you could not understand, because it brings a lot of questions than answers and lefts some empty spaces in character’s souls and in the same time in your soul.
Note: 10+
Original title: Cicada
Author: Belle Whittington
Publishing: CreateSpace
Review: Ştefana Alexandra
Summer is a relaxation moment, but for Blair Reynolds, a seventeen years old teenager, summer is not what she was expecting to be. Her friends leave, the college is starting for them, so this may be the last summer they spent together. Felling that the summer will be to short, Blair is trying to keep what’s left from his friends. Until something interferes… something that can ruin everything. A discovery in the woods next to her grandpa’s farm brings in Blair’s life and her friends a lot of troubles.
After she lost her brother and father, the only family that she has left is mom and Andrew, her brother, but something is happening with him. The boy that was everything for Blair is starting to change in something that doesn’t looks like him, but he doesn’t seems to be worried about this.
Everett is Blair’s best friend, but he is the most involved in the discovery. After she is warn through her dreams, Blair starts helping Everett to keep the secret, but he seems to be changing too.
What is happening when your friends don’t look like the old ones? What can you do when you have no one to speak with? Is anybody listening to you? No. You have to clear things up by yourself.
Cicada is the first book from tree. It presents the young protagonist making her way out from the shell, the changes that she is been through and the life shed living been forced to keep the secret. Throughout the story she finds things that threaten her and needs her attention. Being a good looker she succeeds to put together the pieces from the puzzle, to the dismay of his brother who tries to take her away from what is happening. When nobody is giving her answers she finds out by herself. The question is: “What will she do when the puzzle will be finished?”
Belle Whittington removed from the light angels, vampires and werewolves that have recently ravaged the world of YA, bringing into the light a science-fiction story which doesn’t involve those creatures. The story has an action that keeps you on the book and makes your imagination work.
Although there is little romance action in the novel, you can say that is the only thing in the book. Blair and Everett have a thing for each other, but their story is not in the center of the novel, so if you cut those scenes you still have an amazing story.
The book ending left me crying. I could say what is happening, but you could not understand, because it brings a lot of questions than answers and lefts some empty spaces in character’s souls and in the same time in your soul.
Note: 10+
Original title: Cicada
Author: Belle Whittington
Publishing: CreateSpace
Review: Ştefana Alexandra
November 30, 2011
My Rating: 3.0 / 5
First thoughts:
Please let me point out how much I love this cover and how the novel reflects the mystery that we're already presented in this picture. For me it's a unique story, unlike anything I've read before and I definitely need to find out more about the story Belle Whittington has created. If you're looking for something else than your usual paranormal novels, pick up Cicada.
More detailed:
When I first started Cicada, I didn't expect it to be a story about aliens. I was surprised and completely unsure whether I would like this - after all, I haven't read any alien stories before and didn't know what to expect. But Belle Whittington's beautiful style of writing made me want to continue reading and I've definitely not regretted continuing this.
One evening in summer, Blair and her friends discover something that is both intriguing and scary at the same time. This discovery is followed by many questions, some of which have not been answered yet and make me want to have the second book already. Their world is turned upside down and I can only imagine what I would feel like if I were in their situation.
I have to admit that the first half of the book was a little bit slow, but I think this might be a subjective feeling since I was missing a few more romantic elements. Not everyone needs too much romance in their story, so it might be completely different for you. But I also have to say that the pace picked up during the second half and made it almost impossible to put down Cicada.
The characters we encounter are all very likeable and each of them has their own character traits. It's lovely to watch them interact with each other and to find out what they're thinking and dreaming about. All of them developed during the novel and I'm looking forward to see what Belle Whittington has planned for them in the future.
All in all, I'm very happy to have read Cicada. It has not only broadened my horizon since it's the first alien book I've ever read, but I'm also sure that I won't forget this story easily and will keep it with me until I can finally find out how it continues. It's a fast read and if you're looking for something different to read, you should definitely give this a chance.
First thoughts:
Please let me point out how much I love this cover and how the novel reflects the mystery that we're already presented in this picture. For me it's a unique story, unlike anything I've read before and I definitely need to find out more about the story Belle Whittington has created. If you're looking for something else than your usual paranormal novels, pick up Cicada.
More detailed:
When I first started Cicada, I didn't expect it to be a story about aliens. I was surprised and completely unsure whether I would like this - after all, I haven't read any alien stories before and didn't know what to expect. But Belle Whittington's beautiful style of writing made me want to continue reading and I've definitely not regretted continuing this.
One evening in summer, Blair and her friends discover something that is both intriguing and scary at the same time. This discovery is followed by many questions, some of which have not been answered yet and make me want to have the second book already. Their world is turned upside down and I can only imagine what I would feel like if I were in their situation.
I have to admit that the first half of the book was a little bit slow, but I think this might be a subjective feeling since I was missing a few more romantic elements. Not everyone needs too much romance in their story, so it might be completely different for you. But I also have to say that the pace picked up during the second half and made it almost impossible to put down Cicada.
The characters we encounter are all very likeable and each of them has their own character traits. It's lovely to watch them interact with each other and to find out what they're thinking and dreaming about. All of them developed during the novel and I'm looking forward to see what Belle Whittington has planned for them in the future.
All in all, I'm very happy to have read Cicada. It has not only broadened my horizon since it's the first alien book I've ever read, but I'm also sure that I won't forget this story easily and will keep it with me until I can finally find out how it continues. It's a fast read and if you're looking for something different to read, you should definitely give this a chance.
November 11, 2011
3.5/5
www.booksforcompany.com
In Short
- Cicada had a new and unique paranormal creature
- I enjoyed Belle's writing
- The main characters were well developed
- I felt the romance wasn't necessary
- This is an imaginative story
In Long
Cicada has one of those blurbs which doesn’t really give much away so you find yourself starting a book which you don’t really know much about and have no idea where the story might go. I didn’t even really know what paranormal creatures were involved in this.
I did expect some kind of paranormal story but not necessarily the one I got. When I realised what the book was about I was worried I wouldn’t be able to get into it so was relieved when Belle quickly thrown us into the story.
Although you were thrown into the story Belle still created some great characters that were both brave and interesting characters, although I felt like I could have done with more descriptions on how they looked. I did also feel this with the ‘creature’ in this book and felt it spoiled the book in some places because I wasn’t able to build up a picture in my head. The relationships between the characters were something I also struggled with. I felt like the romance was just put in so that there was a romance in the book but I felt it didn’t add much to the storyline and wasn’t necessary.
I really liked how imaginative this story was. It took you to places other books haven’t ever taken me and although I sometimes struggled with using my imagination I really loved being challenged by Belle. At times I did feel that I needed a more in depth description on what this creature was but throughout the story more detail was added and I was able to get a picture in my mind.
-
Final Thoughts
Belle is a great writer with an amazing imagination. I would definitely recommend giving this book a go and would also suggest reading any other books she may bring out. Although I didn’t LOVE Cicada I can see I would love another book by her because Belle’s writing is great! That is shown with how Belle’s writing enabled me to enjoy Cicada, a sort of book I probably wouldn’t usually enjoy!
www.booksforcompany.com
In Short
- Cicada had a new and unique paranormal creature
- I enjoyed Belle's writing
- The main characters were well developed
- I felt the romance wasn't necessary
- This is an imaginative story
In Long
Cicada has one of those blurbs which doesn’t really give much away so you find yourself starting a book which you don’t really know much about and have no idea where the story might go. I didn’t even really know what paranormal creatures were involved in this.
I did expect some kind of paranormal story but not necessarily the one I got. When I realised what the book was about I was worried I wouldn’t be able to get into it so was relieved when Belle quickly thrown us into the story.
Although you were thrown into the story Belle still created some great characters that were both brave and interesting characters, although I felt like I could have done with more descriptions on how they looked. I did also feel this with the ‘creature’ in this book and felt it spoiled the book in some places because I wasn’t able to build up a picture in my head. The relationships between the characters were something I also struggled with. I felt like the romance was just put in so that there was a romance in the book but I felt it didn’t add much to the storyline and wasn’t necessary.
I really liked how imaginative this story was. It took you to places other books haven’t ever taken me and although I sometimes struggled with using my imagination I really loved being challenged by Belle. At times I did feel that I needed a more in depth description on what this creature was but throughout the story more detail was added and I was able to get a picture in my mind.
-
Final Thoughts
Belle is a great writer with an amazing imagination. I would definitely recommend giving this book a go and would also suggest reading any other books she may bring out. Although I didn’t LOVE Cicada I can see I would love another book by her because Belle’s writing is great! That is shown with how Belle’s writing enabled me to enjoy Cicada, a sort of book I probably wouldn’t usually enjoy!
March 22, 2012
Cicada by Belle Whittington is an out of this world book. She doesn't drag on the story, keeping it a continuous mystery. With more and more surprises along the way.
Blair is a normal girl with normal friends and family, until one summer when something totally bizarre and Definitively not human happens. Something that will change her life forever. And keeping a secret is the key to survival to this mystery.
At first i thought the book looked so interesting cause the cover did, and least expected that it would be about aliens. I kept reading and as i progressed the book got more interesting. I rate this book 5 stars and can't wait to show my friends and my family about this book.
~Tamanna
Blair is a normal girl with normal friends and family, until one summer when something totally bizarre and Definitively not human happens. Something that will change her life forever. And keeping a secret is the key to survival to this mystery.
At first i thought the book looked so interesting cause the cover did, and least expected that it would be about aliens. I kept reading and as i progressed the book got more interesting. I rate this book 5 stars and can't wait to show my friends and my family about this book.
~Tamanna
June 23, 2012
MICHELLE'S REVIEW:
RATING : 4 INTRIGUING MYSTERY STARS!
I joined the blog tour for Cicada, without knowing anything about the book. I liked the cover. I liked the title of the book. Sometimes I prefer to know nothing about a book, so I have no expectations or reservations. It is a whole fresh experience for me.
I am going to say, although the cover is very pretty, I am scratching my head to find the significance of the image to the story within the pages. I am not being judgemental , not unless I am missing something? What I mean is the cover gives absolutely no indication to the story within.
The title is awesome! I LOVED!! The whole significance of the Cicada title in Belle’s writing. This is a wonderfully original aspect of her story.
It is going to be hard to write this review without giving away the story, so I will talk about characters .
Blair was a character I did have trouble connecting with, her character felt like more of a story narrator, even though not the whole time. I would have loved to have gotten to know her more.
Blair’s brother Andrew, has some physic ability about him. I really liked Andrew and his character had a form of growth from start of the book to the end of the book. Something that wasn’t quite as apparent with Blair. Andrew intrigued me, he was a bit mysterious in his behaviour as the pages kept turning.
David is Andrew’s mate, and as far as mates, best buds go, he is a good one. He rolls his sleeves up and dives in. He also has a soft spot for Natalie.
Mum is a funny one. She talks in rhymes when she speaks to Blair and she has her own bakery , Sprinkles. Blair’s mum has lost her other son, Aaron , Andrew’s twin and her husband , they were both murdered. So things have been tough on her. A great mystery lies in their murders.
Blair is apprenticing with her Grandpa who is a vet. These skills will come in handy in this story. Grandpa is a great peer for Blair and Andrew.
Everett to me is the star of this story. The nerdy , bug boy, who is quite brave, intelligent and really surprised me by the end of the book. I loved him before I knew him better, I adored him by the end, but also , there lies a mystery.
I was quite fascinated where Belle took me in her storytelling. I would have liked to have seen it a longer story, only because I felt that the characters needed more fleshing out.
Blair has dreams/nightmares that weave their way into the storyline quite nicely. There is a lot of mystery that keeps the reader turning the pages. I personally would love a good editor to give this book a cuddle as there is something special in Belle’s writing but I think it needs a little cuddle. Sometimes I think things moved too quickly, without a bit of fleshing out, but there is a great story here. The mystery is intriguing and right until the end , we are left with the right amount of mystery for ‘Fireflies’, book 2.
I LOVE the title for book 2, as it has a significance to the storyline in a round about way, I am trying not to give anything away here, to a character in Cicada # 1.
I loved the villains as they were quite creepy and they kept me guessing. I loved another character who I would have liked to have gotten to know more, I think it would have given the reader more emotion. Dang, it’s hard not saying what I want to say. The book blurb has given nothing away, I just checked, so I shall keep it all a secret too. The book trailer gives more away.
Visually , I saw the scenes very well, and enjoyed this band of friends sticking together, and not letting fear stop them from helping a stranger that was so different from themselves, who learned quickly to blend. And that is all I will hint at.
Belle does have a wonderful idea here , I am looking forward to reading Fireflies, I am left incredibly intrigued and I am looking forward to more Everett...... oh I want to say, but I can’t.
From a reader point of view, I am still rating this quite high, because I loved the original story line , it felt like a Babushka doll, where more than one mystery was within the main mystery.
Everett is on my Team T-Shirt, I would just liked to have had some more fleshing out of other characters. On my digital reader this book was only 114 pages long, so I am not being picky, I don’t think??
RATING : 4 INTRIGUING MYSTERY STARS!
I joined the blog tour for Cicada, without knowing anything about the book. I liked the cover. I liked the title of the book. Sometimes I prefer to know nothing about a book, so I have no expectations or reservations. It is a whole fresh experience for me.
I am going to say, although the cover is very pretty, I am scratching my head to find the significance of the image to the story within the pages. I am not being judgemental , not unless I am missing something? What I mean is the cover gives absolutely no indication to the story within.
The title is awesome! I LOVED!! The whole significance of the Cicada title in Belle’s writing. This is a wonderfully original aspect of her story.
It is going to be hard to write this review without giving away the story, so I will talk about characters .
Blair was a character I did have trouble connecting with, her character felt like more of a story narrator, even though not the whole time. I would have loved to have gotten to know her more.
Blair’s brother Andrew, has some physic ability about him. I really liked Andrew and his character had a form of growth from start of the book to the end of the book. Something that wasn’t quite as apparent with Blair. Andrew intrigued me, he was a bit mysterious in his behaviour as the pages kept turning.
David is Andrew’s mate, and as far as mates, best buds go, he is a good one. He rolls his sleeves up and dives in. He also has a soft spot for Natalie.
Mum is a funny one. She talks in rhymes when she speaks to Blair and she has her own bakery , Sprinkles. Blair’s mum has lost her other son, Aaron , Andrew’s twin and her husband , they were both murdered. So things have been tough on her. A great mystery lies in their murders.
Blair is apprenticing with her Grandpa who is a vet. These skills will come in handy in this story. Grandpa is a great peer for Blair and Andrew.
Everett to me is the star of this story. The nerdy , bug boy, who is quite brave, intelligent and really surprised me by the end of the book. I loved him before I knew him better, I adored him by the end, but also , there lies a mystery.
I was quite fascinated where Belle took me in her storytelling. I would have liked to have seen it a longer story, only because I felt that the characters needed more fleshing out.
Blair has dreams/nightmares that weave their way into the storyline quite nicely. There is a lot of mystery that keeps the reader turning the pages. I personally would love a good editor to give this book a cuddle as there is something special in Belle’s writing but I think it needs a little cuddle. Sometimes I think things moved too quickly, without a bit of fleshing out, but there is a great story here. The mystery is intriguing and right until the end , we are left with the right amount of mystery for ‘Fireflies’, book 2.
I LOVE the title for book 2, as it has a significance to the storyline in a round about way, I am trying not to give anything away here, to a character in Cicada # 1.
I loved the villains as they were quite creepy and they kept me guessing. I loved another character who I would have liked to have gotten to know more, I think it would have given the reader more emotion. Dang, it’s hard not saying what I want to say. The book blurb has given nothing away, I just checked, so I shall keep it all a secret too. The book trailer gives more away.
Visually , I saw the scenes very well, and enjoyed this band of friends sticking together, and not letting fear stop them from helping a stranger that was so different from themselves, who learned quickly to blend. And that is all I will hint at.
Belle does have a wonderful idea here , I am looking forward to reading Fireflies, I am left incredibly intrigued and I am looking forward to more Everett...... oh I want to say, but I can’t.
From a reader point of view, I am still rating this quite high, because I loved the original story line , it felt like a Babushka doll, where more than one mystery was within the main mystery.
Everett is on my Team T-Shirt, I would just liked to have had some more fleshing out of other characters. On my digital reader this book was only 114 pages long, so I am not being picky, I don’t think??
June 23, 2012
RATING : 4 INTRIGUING MYSTERY STARS!
I joined the blog tour for Cicada, without knowing anything about the book. I liked the cover. I liked the title of the book. Sometimes I prefer to know nothing about a book, so I have no expectations or reservations. It is a whole fresh experience for me.
I am going to say, although the cover is very pretty, I am scratching my head to find the significance of the image to the story within the pages. I am not being judgemental , not unless I am missing something? What I mean is the cover gives absolutely no indication to the story within.
The title is awesome! I LOVED!! The whole significance of the Cicada title in Belle’s writing. This is a wonderfully original aspect of her story.
It is going to be hard to write this review without giving away the story, so I will talk about characters .
Blair was a character I did have trouble connecting with, her character felt like more of a story narrator, even though not the whole time. I would have loved to have gotten to know her more.
Blair’s brother Andrew, has some physic ability about him. I really liked Andrew and his character had a form of growth from start of the book to the end of the book. Something that wasn’t quite as apparent with Blair. Andrew intrigued me, he was a bit mysterious in his behaviour as the pages kept turning.
David is Andrew’s mate, and as far as mates, best buds go, he is a good one. He rolls his sleeves up and dives in. He also has a soft spot for Natalie.
Mum is a funny one. She talks in rhymes when she speaks to Blair and she has her own bakery , Sprinkles. Blair’s mum has lost her other son, Aaron , Andrew’s twin and her husband , they were both murdered. So things have been tough on her. A great mystery lies in their murders.
Blair is apprenticing with her Grandpa who is a vet. These skills will come in handy in this story. Grandpa is a great peer for Blair and Andrew.
Everett to me is the star of this story. The nerdy , bug boy, who is quite brave, intelligent and really surprised me by the end of the book. I loved him before I knew him better, I adored him by the end, but also , there lies a mystery.
I was quite fascinated where Belle took me in her storytelling. I would have liked to have seen it a longer story, only because I felt that the characters needed more fleshing out.
Blair has dreams/nightmares that weave their way into the storyline quite nicely. There is a lot of mystery that keeps the reader turning the pages. I personally would love a good editor to give this book a cuddle as there is something special in Belle’s writing but I think it needs a little cuddle. Sometimes I think things moved too quickly, without a bit of fleshing out, but there is a great story here. The mystery is intriguing and right until the end , we are left with the right amount of mystery for ‘Fireflies’, book 2.
I LOVE the title for book 2, as it has a significance to the storyline in a round about way, I am trying not to give anything away here, to a character in Cicada # 1.
I loved the villains as they were quite creepy and they kept me guessing. I loved another character who I would have liked to have gotten to know more, I think it would have given the reader more emotion. Dang, it’s hard not saying what I want to say. The book blurb has given nothing away, I just checked, so I shall keep it all a secret too. The book trailer gives more away.
Visually , I saw the scenes very well, and enjoyed this band of friends sticking together, and not letting fear stop them from helping a stranger that was so different from themselves, who learned quickly to blend. And that is all I will hint at.
Belle does have a wonderful idea here , I am looking forward to reading Fireflies, I am left incredibly intrigued and I am looking forward to more Everett...... oh I want to say, but I can’t.
From a reader point of view, I am still rating this quite high, because I loved the original story line , it felt like a Babushka doll, where more than one mystery was within the main mystery.
Everett is on my Team T-Shirt, I would just liked to have had some more fleshing out of other characters. On my digital reader this book was only 114 pages long, so I am not being picky, I don’t think??
I joined the blog tour for Cicada, without knowing anything about the book. I liked the cover. I liked the title of the book. Sometimes I prefer to know nothing about a book, so I have no expectations or reservations. It is a whole fresh experience for me.
I am going to say, although the cover is very pretty, I am scratching my head to find the significance of the image to the story within the pages. I am not being judgemental , not unless I am missing something? What I mean is the cover gives absolutely no indication to the story within.
The title is awesome! I LOVED!! The whole significance of the Cicada title in Belle’s writing. This is a wonderfully original aspect of her story.
It is going to be hard to write this review without giving away the story, so I will talk about characters .
Blair was a character I did have trouble connecting with, her character felt like more of a story narrator, even though not the whole time. I would have loved to have gotten to know her more.
Blair’s brother Andrew, has some physic ability about him. I really liked Andrew and his character had a form of growth from start of the book to the end of the book. Something that wasn’t quite as apparent with Blair. Andrew intrigued me, he was a bit mysterious in his behaviour as the pages kept turning.
David is Andrew’s mate, and as far as mates, best buds go, he is a good one. He rolls his sleeves up and dives in. He also has a soft spot for Natalie.
Mum is a funny one. She talks in rhymes when she speaks to Blair and she has her own bakery , Sprinkles. Blair’s mum has lost her other son, Aaron , Andrew’s twin and her husband , they were both murdered. So things have been tough on her. A great mystery lies in their murders.
Blair is apprenticing with her Grandpa who is a vet. These skills will come in handy in this story. Grandpa is a great peer for Blair and Andrew.
Everett to me is the star of this story. The nerdy , bug boy, who is quite brave, intelligent and really surprised me by the end of the book. I loved him before I knew him better, I adored him by the end, but also , there lies a mystery.
I was quite fascinated where Belle took me in her storytelling. I would have liked to have seen it a longer story, only because I felt that the characters needed more fleshing out.
Blair has dreams/nightmares that weave their way into the storyline quite nicely. There is a lot of mystery that keeps the reader turning the pages. I personally would love a good editor to give this book a cuddle as there is something special in Belle’s writing but I think it needs a little cuddle. Sometimes I think things moved too quickly, without a bit of fleshing out, but there is a great story here. The mystery is intriguing and right until the end , we are left with the right amount of mystery for ‘Fireflies’, book 2.
I LOVE the title for book 2, as it has a significance to the storyline in a round about way, I am trying not to give anything away here, to a character in Cicada # 1.
I loved the villains as they were quite creepy and they kept me guessing. I loved another character who I would have liked to have gotten to know more, I think it would have given the reader more emotion. Dang, it’s hard not saying what I want to say. The book blurb has given nothing away, I just checked, so I shall keep it all a secret too. The book trailer gives more away.
Visually , I saw the scenes very well, and enjoyed this band of friends sticking together, and not letting fear stop them from helping a stranger that was so different from themselves, who learned quickly to blend. And that is all I will hint at.
Belle does have a wonderful idea here , I am looking forward to reading Fireflies, I am left incredibly intrigued and I am looking forward to more Everett...... oh I want to say, but I can’t.
From a reader point of view, I am still rating this quite high, because I loved the original story line , it felt like a Babushka doll, where more than one mystery was within the main mystery.
Everett is on my Team T-Shirt, I would just liked to have had some more fleshing out of other characters. On my digital reader this book was only 114 pages long, so I am not being picky, I don’t think??
September 7, 2012
This review is also on my blog - www.justfantasybooksadis.blogspot.com
Review:
Right away after seniors' graduate, Blair together with her friends discover something on the pasture near home. Something strange. Somebody cut the grass in a perfect circle. And when she, together with her bigger brother, Andrew and her friends, David, Natalie and Everett go to investigate, they have a collision with abnormal creatures that plant a cocoon in the forest. Everett, the passionate of bugs ( called " bug boy " ) insists to keep the cocoon, bringing it at the place where he deposits his entire colection with live bugs, a store. And when they all discover an abandoned build, the things turn into something more complicated. Andrew, David and Everett decide to try to get in. Andrew and David find some pictures on the wall with Blair, her mother and Natalie, with Everett, with all.
As the summer ends, the cocoon turns into a creepy creature that takes Everett's shape and apprearence. Without knowing what it is, the friends call it " the Cicada ". All the pieces of the puzzle start to stick: the abandoned building is hiding them, those who are searching the Cicada and who want to destroy it. But as Everett becomes strongly attached to his clone, those who want to destroy Cicada capture and torture him.
Not much after that, Blair and her friends save Everett from their hands, and she decides that he is too injured, so they are bringing him to the hospital, pretending that he rode a horse in the night and then he fell down from the horse. While Everett starts healing, he and Blair realize that between them a love story has grown. But Everett starts acting creepy: he wears some dark glasses, his eyes start to look strange, is being distant from Blair, and keeps secrets from her. And this is freaking her like hell. As if summer, it seems, wasn't strange enough, Blair decides to take a look into her dead father's stuffs and finds another piece from the puzzle: it looks like her father was involved into those disturbing events. And then she finds out another shocking thing: she had a twin sister that died at birth.
Finally, the crazy summer has ended: Blair, the youngest, remains without her friends in her small town, while the love of her life, Everett, joins the Marina. But he promises Blair that he will come back someday and he will ask her to marry him.
Gosh! Such an end! :x
My favourite quotes:
" I don't give a damn who sees me kissing you ", he said while wiping the tears that began streaming down my cheeks. " I'm going to do what I have to do, and then I'm going to come back here and marry you! " - Everett tells Blair.
" Will you be dangerous to others? " I asked.
" Yes. I will be dangerous to others. Not anyone you should worry about, thought." - Blair and Everett
" Sweet Blair, Mom is here. Cry no more. Things are well as they were before. "
Mom's rhymes always made me feel better. - Blair's mother
My opinion:
It finished too faaaaaaast! Just when the atmosphere is getting hot, that stupid Everett decides to leave! I'm dying to know what is going to happen in the second novel, Firefly. OK, maybe Belle is a little passionate about insects, because the first novel is called Cicada. But, of course, it doesn't refer about insects. The title of the second book is called like this beacaaause...should I tell you? Because * spoiler * Everett is telling Blair, at the end, that she is his light and he is calling her firefly. <3 This moment is taken from a movie - and written by Belle sounds even better. I really liked that in this book aren't complications about love - David and Natalie protect each other and they didn't have a fight, so in the end everything turned into something more serious. There were just a few moments when Blair and Everett were kissing, but those moments were awesome, and I couldn't stop reading! The story had a lot of mistery.
Every character was having something special. Everettis passionate about bugs, Natalie is the girl-from-city type, Andrew is quiet and holy, and Blair's grandpa is calling her " sweet pea ". Everything seems true!
Review:
Right away after seniors' graduate, Blair together with her friends discover something on the pasture near home. Something strange. Somebody cut the grass in a perfect circle. And when she, together with her bigger brother, Andrew and her friends, David, Natalie and Everett go to investigate, they have a collision with abnormal creatures that plant a cocoon in the forest. Everett, the passionate of bugs ( called " bug boy " ) insists to keep the cocoon, bringing it at the place where he deposits his entire colection with live bugs, a store. And when they all discover an abandoned build, the things turn into something more complicated. Andrew, David and Everett decide to try to get in. Andrew and David find some pictures on the wall with Blair, her mother and Natalie, with Everett, with all.
As the summer ends, the cocoon turns into a creepy creature that takes Everett's shape and apprearence. Without knowing what it is, the friends call it " the Cicada ". All the pieces of the puzzle start to stick: the abandoned building is hiding them, those who are searching the Cicada and who want to destroy it. But as Everett becomes strongly attached to his clone, those who want to destroy Cicada capture and torture him.
Not much after that, Blair and her friends save Everett from their hands, and she decides that he is too injured, so they are bringing him to the hospital, pretending that he rode a horse in the night and then he fell down from the horse. While Everett starts healing, he and Blair realize that between them a love story has grown. But Everett starts acting creepy: he wears some dark glasses, his eyes start to look strange, is being distant from Blair, and keeps secrets from her. And this is freaking her like hell. As if summer, it seems, wasn't strange enough, Blair decides to take a look into her dead father's stuffs and finds another piece from the puzzle: it looks like her father was involved into those disturbing events. And then she finds out another shocking thing: she had a twin sister that died at birth.
Finally, the crazy summer has ended: Blair, the youngest, remains without her friends in her small town, while the love of her life, Everett, joins the Marina. But he promises Blair that he will come back someday and he will ask her to marry him.
Gosh! Such an end! :x
My favourite quotes:
" I don't give a damn who sees me kissing you ", he said while wiping the tears that began streaming down my cheeks. " I'm going to do what I have to do, and then I'm going to come back here and marry you! " - Everett tells Blair.
" Will you be dangerous to others? " I asked.
" Yes. I will be dangerous to others. Not anyone you should worry about, thought." - Blair and Everett
" Sweet Blair, Mom is here. Cry no more. Things are well as they were before. "
Mom's rhymes always made me feel better. - Blair's mother
My opinion:
It finished too faaaaaaast! Just when the atmosphere is getting hot, that stupid Everett decides to leave! I'm dying to know what is going to happen in the second novel, Firefly. OK, maybe Belle is a little passionate about insects, because the first novel is called Cicada. But, of course, it doesn't refer about insects. The title of the second book is called like this beacaaause...should I tell you? Because * spoiler * Everett is telling Blair, at the end, that she is his light and he is calling her firefly. <3 This moment is taken from a movie - and written by Belle sounds even better. I really liked that in this book aren't complications about love - David and Natalie protect each other and they didn't have a fight, so in the end everything turned into something more serious. There were just a few moments when Blair and Everett were kissing, but those moments were awesome, and I couldn't stop reading! The story had a lot of mistery.
Every character was having something special. Everettis passionate about bugs, Natalie is the girl-from-city type, Andrew is quiet and holy, and Blair's grandpa is calling her " sweet pea ". Everything seems true!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2021
For 17-year-old Blair Reynolds and her friends, being the bearer of secrets is getting really old. But it’s something she learns to deal with, because there’s no other option. If the people in her small town ever found out what she and her friends discovered in the woods and hid in the storage room, the whole town would be up in arms, literally. You see, folks here don’t believe in aliens from outer space. Besides, if they ever found out what two of those aliens did to one of their own, well, let’s just say what would follow would be all out war.
As the months unfold, their summer becomes consumed with secrets, puzzle pieces that don’t quite fit together, and a fight for their lives that leaves one of them at death’s door.
The thing that first drew me towards Cicada, its’ gorgeous cover and book trailer, are also a perfect representation of what makes it such a unique read: its’ beauty. We follow Blair and her friends, who are a year older then she is, through their last Summer together before they go off to college and leave her behind. They have some dorky teenage fun, they discuss their futures beneath the stars alongside the music of the cicadas, and they come across a crop circle which is just the beginning of the weirdness and their struggles.
My issues with Cicada began with the characters. I struggled to feel much of a connection to them, we are simply thrust immediately into their world and expected to care with no real reasons given as to why until much later on in the book and I honestly felt more time could and should have been put into developing the characters and their story. Still, I found myself laughing with them and wondering with them. I also wanted to slap them upside the head at times, but that’s just me. There are a couple of things that go unexplained in Cicada as well which I couldn’t make much sense of. I understand that they will be touched upon again in Firefly (they will, right?!), but it felt incomplete, and the weaving of plot points sometimes felt a little choppy. I also wasn’t fond of how over-protective the guys are of Blair and Natalie. The chivalry is nice, and it does make sense especially considering they are in a small town in Texas, but I really like female characters who can hold their own. To my great joy and relief, Blair does manage that in places and I did really grow to love her as a character as she tried to take matters into her own hands. Sadly the romance fell flat for me until I heard a few songs that Belle sent my way and then it suddenly made more sense. They all have their own stories and purposes and I look forward to Blair’s enlightenment because I need to know what happens!
What I really loved about Cicada, what really pulled me in, was the absolutely wonderful story. It’s well-balanced and the pacing is good once you get into it a little. There are many tense and suspenseful moments that create excitement and plenty of foreboding and secrets, though it’s dark, it never gets too dark as there are a lot of interspersed lighter moments. I haven’t come across a story like Cicada before and by the end I was pining for the next book. I may even have cried out when I realised it had come to an end, and what an abrupt ending! Belle is evil. Trust me on that one. It is the kind of book that grips you in and you don’t quite realise it at first until you find yourself just needing to know what happens. Belle is definitely one to watch, she’s wonderfully imaginative and a good writer.
As the months unfold, their summer becomes consumed with secrets, puzzle pieces that don’t quite fit together, and a fight for their lives that leaves one of them at death’s door.
The thing that first drew me towards Cicada, its’ gorgeous cover and book trailer, are also a perfect representation of what makes it such a unique read: its’ beauty. We follow Blair and her friends, who are a year older then she is, through their last Summer together before they go off to college and leave her behind. They have some dorky teenage fun, they discuss their futures beneath the stars alongside the music of the cicadas, and they come across a crop circle which is just the beginning of the weirdness and their struggles.
My issues with Cicada began with the characters. I struggled to feel much of a connection to them, we are simply thrust immediately into their world and expected to care with no real reasons given as to why until much later on in the book and I honestly felt more time could and should have been put into developing the characters and their story. Still, I found myself laughing with them and wondering with them. I also wanted to slap them upside the head at times, but that’s just me. There are a couple of things that go unexplained in Cicada as well which I couldn’t make much sense of. I understand that they will be touched upon again in Firefly (they will, right?!), but it felt incomplete, and the weaving of plot points sometimes felt a little choppy. I also wasn’t fond of how over-protective the guys are of Blair and Natalie. The chivalry is nice, and it does make sense especially considering they are in a small town in Texas, but I really like female characters who can hold their own. To my great joy and relief, Blair does manage that in places and I did really grow to love her as a character as she tried to take matters into her own hands. Sadly the romance fell flat for me until I heard a few songs that Belle sent my way and then it suddenly made more sense. They all have their own stories and purposes and I look forward to Blair’s enlightenment because I need to know what happens!
What I really loved about Cicada, what really pulled me in, was the absolutely wonderful story. It’s well-balanced and the pacing is good once you get into it a little. There are many tense and suspenseful moments that create excitement and plenty of foreboding and secrets, though it’s dark, it never gets too dark as there are a lot of interspersed lighter moments. I haven’t come across a story like Cicada before and by the end I was pining for the next book. I may even have cried out when I realised it had come to an end, and what an abrupt ending! Belle is evil. Trust me on that one. It is the kind of book that grips you in and you don’t quite realise it at first until you find yourself just needing to know what happens. Belle is definitely one to watch, she’s wonderfully imaginative and a good writer.
July 22, 2012
Under the hot summer sun, what can we read? Something refreshing…Vampires? Angels? Lycantropes? Aliens? Yes, you got that right, I mentioned aliens, because they are the protagonists of Cicada, a young adult novel with sci-fi elements. First book in a new series, the story takes place in beautiful Texas, in a small town surrounded by nature. I've just said beautiful Texas because the descriptions of the book fascinated me and created such a realistic and vivid scenary. I was totally in love with the writing!
The story follows the adventure of Blair, a normal girl, and of her beloved older brother Andrew and her friends Everett, David and his (maybe) girlfriend while they are enjoying their last summer together before the guys head off to college. What they don't know is that their life is just about to change that summer, starting with the discovery of weird signs in the cornfields of Blair's grandfather. After that, the whole gang find a strange egg and the bug boy, Everett, decides to take care of it, and soon finds out that they are dealing with an alien creature and they called it Cicada. The mysterious thing seems to be able to communicate with Blair and, once born, changes its appeareance and looks like Everett.
But troubles are coming and they are caught in something way bigger: they have to deal with people who want to destruct the Cicada and Everett will pay the higher price, after being kidnapped and tortured. The end of the summer will be full of surprise, as they have to face new challenges; Andrew decides to completely change his plans and take some time to think things over, Everett will say goodby to Blair and Blair will discover that her father, dead over a year ago along with Andrew's twin brother, had a past which seems connected to aliens. The end of the book left me wondering and wanting to know more.
Written by Blair's POV, the story starts slowly like a lovely summer morning and we find ourselves in this beautiful town, but the end is fast-paced and full of twists and I wasn't able to put it down. The thing that I loved the most was the way in which Belle describe things. Those descriptions… I ADORED them. I could almost picture the town and I really saw the action taking place in front of my eyes. I wanted to visit Texas so badly after reading this! The characters were all very believable, especially Blair, to whom I could totally relate. She's kind of shy and always follows her older brother.
“And I did what I do best. I watched, alone, from the sidelines. I saw.”
Andrew, her older brother, starts as the 'golden boy' but slowly we see him change, getting more mysterious and it's clear that he hides something. I got so curious to find out why, maybe because I have a soft spot for him. Everett is the character who changed the most, going from bug lover and nerd guy to self-confident and sexy guy. These changes are somewhat related to the Cicada and you'll want to have the next book IMMEDIATELY to find out more and to get some answers.
Even if at first I wasn't sure about the sci-fi element of the story, I found out that I really enjoyed the book. I had to read it in a whole day, because I wanted to know what was going to happen. And I still have so many questions!!!I'll make sure to read Firefly as soon as it comes out!
The story follows the adventure of Blair, a normal girl, and of her beloved older brother Andrew and her friends Everett, David and his (maybe) girlfriend while they are enjoying their last summer together before the guys head off to college. What they don't know is that their life is just about to change that summer, starting with the discovery of weird signs in the cornfields of Blair's grandfather. After that, the whole gang find a strange egg and the bug boy, Everett, decides to take care of it, and soon finds out that they are dealing with an alien creature and they called it Cicada. The mysterious thing seems to be able to communicate with Blair and, once born, changes its appeareance and looks like Everett.
But troubles are coming and they are caught in something way bigger: they have to deal with people who want to destruct the Cicada and Everett will pay the higher price, after being kidnapped and tortured. The end of the summer will be full of surprise, as they have to face new challenges; Andrew decides to completely change his plans and take some time to think things over, Everett will say goodby to Blair and Blair will discover that her father, dead over a year ago along with Andrew's twin brother, had a past which seems connected to aliens. The end of the book left me wondering and wanting to know more.
Written by Blair's POV, the story starts slowly like a lovely summer morning and we find ourselves in this beautiful town, but the end is fast-paced and full of twists and I wasn't able to put it down. The thing that I loved the most was the way in which Belle describe things. Those descriptions… I ADORED them. I could almost picture the town and I really saw the action taking place in front of my eyes. I wanted to visit Texas so badly after reading this! The characters were all very believable, especially Blair, to whom I could totally relate. She's kind of shy and always follows her older brother.
“And I did what I do best. I watched, alone, from the sidelines. I saw.”
Andrew, her older brother, starts as the 'golden boy' but slowly we see him change, getting more mysterious and it's clear that he hides something. I got so curious to find out why, maybe because I have a soft spot for him. Everett is the character who changed the most, going from bug lover and nerd guy to self-confident and sexy guy. These changes are somewhat related to the Cicada and you'll want to have the next book IMMEDIATELY to find out more and to get some answers.
Even if at first I wasn't sure about the sci-fi element of the story, I found out that I really enjoyed the book. I had to read it in a whole day, because I wanted to know what was going to happen. And I still have so many questions!!!I'll make sure to read Firefly as soon as it comes out!
February 29, 2012
* Plot: Things definitely happen, although, perhaps timed a little off what they should be. Blair is a high school girl whose friends have all just graduated from high school, except she still has another year left. Everyone else is going through major life changes, especially when they all encounter a creature that appears to not be of this world. Her old friend Everett ends up being the most affected by this creature, and thus changes the most, and also makes some drastic changes to his future post-high school plans.
* Characters: Blair is a cute country girl from an inconsequential town in east Texas. Her brother, her grandfather, and her other male friends are so convincingly southern men—it's a hoot! I like Everett the best because he is different from everybody else, a nerd-boy who loves bugs and running into daunting situations head first without fear. He is super cute and I like that he gets to play the main hero character—not some popular jock boy. Although, he ends up going through some serious changes that left me, like Blair, a bit uncomfortable because I really liked Everett as the goofy, clumsy, silly guy.
* Writing: It's simple and effective. Nothing artful, but definitely decent. The southern YA voice was also really well done.
* Storytelling: I think the story could have benefited from starting a bit sooner. There is some back-story for a little while before anything important happens to start the plot. But, it does the job of helping us to get to know the characters. I really like the ambiance of the slow, hot, humid summer on an east Texas ranch, with cicadas whining and fireflies floating around under a blanket of twinkling stars. Very relaxing. It was easy to hear the characters speaking with their southern drawls. I love Blair's mother's rhymes as she spoke in rhymes all the time. It was quaint and sweet. “My Blair with the dark brown hair,” things like that. It seems accurate as to what I know of real people from that region, particularly mothers.
* Overall Quality: Pretty decent and very compelling in parts. I would have liked more information on the inhuman element in the story and why it was around them, why it had been hiding for several years, where it came from, who were its enemies, and how all of that tied into the death of Blair's father and brother (which had already happened prior to the story). I like when I'm more in-the-know than not, but it doesn't mean it's a flaw, as it's so common in literature these days to keep things uber mysterious. Everett was such a neat character, in my personal estimation, he made me want to keep on reading, especially to see where his relationship with Blair would go.
* Favorite Moment/Scene: When the non-human life form Blair and her friends had discovered started to emerge from its pod. I thought Everett's reaction upon seeing it was very interesting and memorable. (He kind of freaked out!) What the life form resembled was also pretty shocking.
* My Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars.
*I received this title as a complementary copy in exchange for my honest review.
* Characters: Blair is a cute country girl from an inconsequential town in east Texas. Her brother, her grandfather, and her other male friends are so convincingly southern men—it's a hoot! I like Everett the best because he is different from everybody else, a nerd-boy who loves bugs and running into daunting situations head first without fear. He is super cute and I like that he gets to play the main hero character—not some popular jock boy. Although, he ends up going through some serious changes that left me, like Blair, a bit uncomfortable because I really liked Everett as the goofy, clumsy, silly guy.
* Writing: It's simple and effective. Nothing artful, but definitely decent. The southern YA voice was also really well done.
* Storytelling: I think the story could have benefited from starting a bit sooner. There is some back-story for a little while before anything important happens to start the plot. But, it does the job of helping us to get to know the characters. I really like the ambiance of the slow, hot, humid summer on an east Texas ranch, with cicadas whining and fireflies floating around under a blanket of twinkling stars. Very relaxing. It was easy to hear the characters speaking with their southern drawls. I love Blair's mother's rhymes as she spoke in rhymes all the time. It was quaint and sweet. “My Blair with the dark brown hair,” things like that. It seems accurate as to what I know of real people from that region, particularly mothers.
* Overall Quality: Pretty decent and very compelling in parts. I would have liked more information on the inhuman element in the story and why it was around them, why it had been hiding for several years, where it came from, who were its enemies, and how all of that tied into the death of Blair's father and brother (which had already happened prior to the story). I like when I'm more in-the-know than not, but it doesn't mean it's a flaw, as it's so common in literature these days to keep things uber mysterious. Everett was such a neat character, in my personal estimation, he made me want to keep on reading, especially to see where his relationship with Blair would go.
* Favorite Moment/Scene: When the non-human life form Blair and her friends had discovered started to emerge from its pod. I thought Everett's reaction upon seeing it was very interesting and memorable. (He kind of freaked out!) What the life form resembled was also pretty shocking.
* My Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars.
*I received this title as a complementary copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 20, 2011
Review by Valerie: WARNING: Spoilers are in this preview.
I loved the preface to this book... “So, I ask again. Can you keep a secret? If not, put aside this story. Throw it away. Burn it. Tell no one what lies between the covers of this book. But if you can keep a secret, proceed with caution. And tell not a soul.” My hubby and I took a trip last year to southeast Texas, to the great piney woods during the hot summer days and nights where this story took place, and as I read, I felt like I was THERE again. The author did a fantastic job of creating the setting for this story and reading it at night spooked me out.
A time of celebration in a small town turns into a mystery that Blair, her brother, and friends want to solve as weird things start happening. First, an unusual building “appears” in town. Then, a crop circle is spotted in her grandpa’s pasture. While riding four wheelers, the teens spot an object in the sky hovering over the crop circle. What can all these clues mean? Noticing an unusual spot in the trees within the crop circle, they decide to check it out and find a large pod with a creature inside, growing. Although the group disagrees on whether or not to kill or save the creature, the final decision is to hide it at a local storage shed. Besides trying to figure out what type of creature they’re harboring, Blair’s worried about her brother. His behavior has changed, for the worst, and he’s stopped shaving, bathing, and doesn’t seem to care about anything anymore. Since they lost their dad and Andrew’s twin, Blair and her brother have been each other’s support.
When Blair’s best friend, Everett, first sees the hatched creature, he’s shocked. It looks just like HIM. While everyone is confused, it seems that the creature had imprinted him when they first located It. It begs them to keep It safe from the ones who would harm It. Unbeknownst to the others, the creature talks to Blair telepathically. Adding even more confusion are the weird dreams she keeps having. As the story continued, the action picked up as the creature was indeed in danger, as well as Everett. When Everett is the one tortured and almost killed, the creature passes on energy to help him heal. Soon though, Everett doesn’t need his glasses to see, nor does he need his crutches to walk. He starts dressing differently and acting cocky. Blair’s entire world has changed: her nerdy, geeky boy friend is now her boyfriend, but what is he? Her brother no longer tells her his secrets and is leaving to travel around the country on his motorcycle. Her best hope for finding answers lies in her dad’s study and when she starts poking around, the mystery gets even more bizarre. On their honeymoon, her dad took a picture with a cocoon high up in a tree, just like the one the creature was found in. WHAT was her dad involved with?
A tale with a lot of twists and turns that will keep you wondering...book two will be called Firefly.
I loved the preface to this book... “So, I ask again. Can you keep a secret? If not, put aside this story. Throw it away. Burn it. Tell no one what lies between the covers of this book. But if you can keep a secret, proceed with caution. And tell not a soul.” My hubby and I took a trip last year to southeast Texas, to the great piney woods during the hot summer days and nights where this story took place, and as I read, I felt like I was THERE again. The author did a fantastic job of creating the setting for this story and reading it at night spooked me out.
A time of celebration in a small town turns into a mystery that Blair, her brother, and friends want to solve as weird things start happening. First, an unusual building “appears” in town. Then, a crop circle is spotted in her grandpa’s pasture. While riding four wheelers, the teens spot an object in the sky hovering over the crop circle. What can all these clues mean? Noticing an unusual spot in the trees within the crop circle, they decide to check it out and find a large pod with a creature inside, growing. Although the group disagrees on whether or not to kill or save the creature, the final decision is to hide it at a local storage shed. Besides trying to figure out what type of creature they’re harboring, Blair’s worried about her brother. His behavior has changed, for the worst, and he’s stopped shaving, bathing, and doesn’t seem to care about anything anymore. Since they lost their dad and Andrew’s twin, Blair and her brother have been each other’s support.
When Blair’s best friend, Everett, first sees the hatched creature, he’s shocked. It looks just like HIM. While everyone is confused, it seems that the creature had imprinted him when they first located It. It begs them to keep It safe from the ones who would harm It. Unbeknownst to the others, the creature talks to Blair telepathically. Adding even more confusion are the weird dreams she keeps having. As the story continued, the action picked up as the creature was indeed in danger, as well as Everett. When Everett is the one tortured and almost killed, the creature passes on energy to help him heal. Soon though, Everett doesn’t need his glasses to see, nor does he need his crutches to walk. He starts dressing differently and acting cocky. Blair’s entire world has changed: her nerdy, geeky boy friend is now her boyfriend, but what is he? Her brother no longer tells her his secrets and is leaving to travel around the country on his motorcycle. Her best hope for finding answers lies in her dad’s study and when she starts poking around, the mystery gets even more bizarre. On their honeymoon, her dad took a picture with a cocoon high up in a tree, just like the one the creature was found in. WHAT was her dad involved with?
A tale with a lot of twists and turns that will keep you wondering...book two will be called Firefly.
October 18, 2011
Today’s blog is a book review on an awesome read that I finished in one day! The book is “Cicada” by Belle Whittington and I thoroughly enjoyed it for many reasons. It’s one of those books that you think you have figured out, only to to realize that there is much left to discover.
In this book, the characters come to life. The teens in this story are not glamorous or rich, but everyday kids that are believable and easy to relate to. They are written with emotion and smoothed and polished by time. I can tell that the author didn’t rush when developing them. I also liked the fact that all of the characters were likable (no snotty brats or hidden agendas) and each had their own strengths (even if they couldn’t see them) and weaknesses. Her descriptions were rich in detail and I tell ya, I want to go live on “Grandpa’s” ranch! LOL! Whittington has a simplistic and Southern flair in this particular book that I loved. The descriptions were not over-done; they felt real. Being a Georgia girl, there were many aspects of the settings that I could relate to and the whole flavor of this book reminded me of home.
You guys know that I try not to leak too many details in my reviews. I will say that this book is about a teenage girl named Blair, her older brother, Andrew, and their friends who discover and save an alien on her grandpa’s ranch. This part of the story is revealed almost upfront and I was wondering as I read why the author would play her ace so soon. However, I soon realized that this little nibblet of information was nothing compared to what she hadn’t revealed yet! Yep, Ms. Whittington knows how to play poker and she deals her cards out in a way that makes you hold your breath and wonder just how many aces can one deck have?!
As I stated above, there are other factors in this book that help make it whole and the “alien” is just a small part of that. There are secret powers, foretelling dreams, the power of twins, grief, coming of age issues, secret government agencies, and one of my favorites-the fact that a “nerdy-type” guy is defined with such grace and realism, and he is embraced by the group of friends and not ridiculed for being intelligent.
This book is the first in a trilogy and I cannot wait to read her next one titled “Firefly”. The author leaves you with questions (of course) but it doesn’t have one of those cliff-hanger endings that leaves you confused or empty. This is an excellent read for young adults (I hate it when a book is labeled YA and it is really more suited for an adult) and a strong point is that it shows what the power of friendship can accomplish-a message that all kids can learn from. I give this book 5 stars and I hope that Ms. Whittington will not make me wait too long for the next book in this series!
In this book, the characters come to life. The teens in this story are not glamorous or rich, but everyday kids that are believable and easy to relate to. They are written with emotion and smoothed and polished by time. I can tell that the author didn’t rush when developing them. I also liked the fact that all of the characters were likable (no snotty brats or hidden agendas) and each had their own strengths (even if they couldn’t see them) and weaknesses. Her descriptions were rich in detail and I tell ya, I want to go live on “Grandpa’s” ranch! LOL! Whittington has a simplistic and Southern flair in this particular book that I loved. The descriptions were not over-done; they felt real. Being a Georgia girl, there were many aspects of the settings that I could relate to and the whole flavor of this book reminded me of home.
You guys know that I try not to leak too many details in my reviews. I will say that this book is about a teenage girl named Blair, her older brother, Andrew, and their friends who discover and save an alien on her grandpa’s ranch. This part of the story is revealed almost upfront and I was wondering as I read why the author would play her ace so soon. However, I soon realized that this little nibblet of information was nothing compared to what she hadn’t revealed yet! Yep, Ms. Whittington knows how to play poker and she deals her cards out in a way that makes you hold your breath and wonder just how many aces can one deck have?!
As I stated above, there are other factors in this book that help make it whole and the “alien” is just a small part of that. There are secret powers, foretelling dreams, the power of twins, grief, coming of age issues, secret government agencies, and one of my favorites-the fact that a “nerdy-type” guy is defined with such grace and realism, and he is embraced by the group of friends and not ridiculed for being intelligent.
This book is the first in a trilogy and I cannot wait to read her next one titled “Firefly”. The author leaves you with questions (of course) but it doesn’t have one of those cliff-hanger endings that leaves you confused or empty. This is an excellent read for young adults (I hate it when a book is labeled YA and it is really more suited for an adult) and a strong point is that it shows what the power of friendship can accomplish-a message that all kids can learn from. I give this book 5 stars and I hope that Ms. Whittington will not make me wait too long for the next book in this series!
November 11, 2011
When I started Cicada I knew only 2 things: it was a sci-fi book, and a cicada is an insect. As I tore through the pages of this fluid and easy to digest novel, I fell in love with the simple Texas story of love and more. Yes it has science fiction elements, but it's not only a book about impossibilities it is also a book about everything that is possible in life, even those things we never expect.
Cicada is a summer story, which made me yearn for long and lazy warm days. I found Belle Whittington to be an author who doesn't just spell things out for the reader but makes you search for information in her writing, and I loved that. While a fun and easy read in the beginning Belle beefs up the story quite a bit by the end with twists in the story and just enough suspense to keep any reader on their toes. She also creates beautiful scenes in the readers mind of what is happening in the story. I could easily picture everything from the old ranch to the bakery that Blair's mother owns.
It's a book about so many things but when I think of Cicada the word that pops into my mind is change. Everything changes for this young group of characters in the short months leading up to college and for Blair, leading up to senior year. Some of these changes have been good and some not.
There's a love story that unfolds between the pages that really took me by surprise. That doesn't mean I'm not happy it happened, but I was kind of in shock when everything was confessed. That's great writing, when you are literally going back a few pages to see how in the world you could have missed that! Then realize the small changes in behavior leading up to the emotion filled moments. It's a beautiful love that is young yet powerful and I enjoyed reading every second of it.
Aside from Blair we meet her brother Andrew and their 3 close friends. Everett, one of their friends is a self confessed nerd and from the very beginning I knew he was something special. He was my favorite character from the book, I liked Blair and all but I don't know, I just really liked Everett. Blair comes off as young and while she grows and changes a lot through the book we definitely see the most growth in Everett both emotional and physical. Her characters have real personalities and it's a refreshing read.
The intriguing story line gets more and more developed as the story moves forward, it continues to build. I'm glad it's one of a series because there is still so much more to learn. There is a bit left unanswered but it's understandable, it's a book one and we all know how that goes "Holy Cliffhanger" although this one isn't too bad. And, a bonus, the e-book I read had a preview of book 2, so I'm a little satisfied until it releases.
So, recap.
Do I recommend this book? Yes.
Why? Because it's beautiful and real and very unique.
Cicada is a summer story, which made me yearn for long and lazy warm days. I found Belle Whittington to be an author who doesn't just spell things out for the reader but makes you search for information in her writing, and I loved that. While a fun and easy read in the beginning Belle beefs up the story quite a bit by the end with twists in the story and just enough suspense to keep any reader on their toes. She also creates beautiful scenes in the readers mind of what is happening in the story. I could easily picture everything from the old ranch to the bakery that Blair's mother owns.
It's a book about so many things but when I think of Cicada the word that pops into my mind is change. Everything changes for this young group of characters in the short months leading up to college and for Blair, leading up to senior year. Some of these changes have been good and some not.
There's a love story that unfolds between the pages that really took me by surprise. That doesn't mean I'm not happy it happened, but I was kind of in shock when everything was confessed. That's great writing, when you are literally going back a few pages to see how in the world you could have missed that! Then realize the small changes in behavior leading up to the emotion filled moments. It's a beautiful love that is young yet powerful and I enjoyed reading every second of it.
Aside from Blair we meet her brother Andrew and their 3 close friends. Everett, one of their friends is a self confessed nerd and from the very beginning I knew he was something special. He was my favorite character from the book, I liked Blair and all but I don't know, I just really liked Everett. Blair comes off as young and while she grows and changes a lot through the book we definitely see the most growth in Everett both emotional and physical. Her characters have real personalities and it's a refreshing read.
The intriguing story line gets more and more developed as the story moves forward, it continues to build. I'm glad it's one of a series because there is still so much more to learn. There is a bit left unanswered but it's understandable, it's a book one and we all know how that goes "Holy Cliffhanger" although this one isn't too bad. And, a bonus, the e-book I read had a preview of book 2, so I'm a little satisfied until it releases.
So, recap.
Do I recommend this book? Yes.
Why? Because it's beautiful and real and very unique.
September 14, 2012
Blair and her friends -Andrew , Everett , Natalie and David - usually spent a funny summer together , that means nothing strange in their lives.
But , this summer things had changed and they must pass through some difficult obstacles if they want to live.
First , they discovered an abandoned building , one they have never seen before. But the real problem starts when they found that creepy crop circle on the pasture near Blair's grandpa ranch.
Somebody cut it in the grass , and they must figure out who . They start to investigate the problem , and then they find it in the forest...IT - the strange cocoon.
They should have leave it there , but they didn't. Everett took it to his storage , the place where he puts all his bugs and insects.
Days are passing and the cocoon starts to grow up and it takes
Everett's appearance. OK , that's completely weird , but it's true.
The connection between ''The Cicada'' (that's how Blair and her friends called it)and Everett is bigger and even more dangerous.
''Them'' are trying to capture and kill ''The Cicada'' , but Blair must not allow it. Even she tries to keep it safe , ''them'' captured and tortured Everett. Poor Everett , ''them'' tortured him to death.
Finally , Blair , Andrew and David rescued Everett from those creepy creatures and brought him at the hospital.
Everett is healing , but he will never be the same ''bug boy''. He is different , more stronger.
Besides that , he is becoming something ……….strange. I won’t tell what , because I don’t want to give many spoilers. Anyway , he leaves because he joins the Marina. And he leaves after he told Blair that he loves her. So sad , isn’t it?
In fact , everyone is leaving : Everett joins the Marina , Natalie goes to college and David follows her , Andrew (Blair’s brother) has to solve some problems away from home.
Blair remains here , with her mother and her grandparents . But she stays for something: she must find out what her dead father discovered years ago. It seems to be that he found the same thing she and her friends found this summer : A ''Cicada''.
Mrs. Belle gave us the opportunity to read three chapters from the next book ''Firefly''. I won't talk about that three chapters because I want to read the whole book .
CONCLUSION:
I thought this book was good , but I was wrong. It is FANTASTIC , and I'm not saying this just because I have to write a review.
Mrs. Belle gave me an e-copy of the book and I can't thank her enough.
The story she wrote will lead you in a different world , where the supernatural is anywhere.
I didn't understand why the name of the book is ''Cicada'' , but all my questions were clarified after I read the book. By the way , it is an original title (thumbs up for Mrs. Belle Whittington).
October 19, 2011
Cicada is a really fun and fast read that is making me miss summertime... a lot. It follows a group of friends for the summer, with the focus on the main protaganist Blair, in a small town in Texas. I loved the closeness of this group of friends, how when faced with the scary reality of a certain situation (don't want to give too much away) they stick together and look out for one another at all costs. That was probably my favorite part of the book. Blair's older brother, Andrew, was especially protective of his sister and showcases such an intense bond with his younger sister that makes me wish I had an older brother to tag along with! Then there was also Everett, bug boy, who captured a soft spot in my heart being the science nerd that I am!
The plot of this book is something definitely new to me, since I haven't picked up a lot of sci-fi, so I was treading in unfamiliar territory for the most part. I found the story to be an original and unique creation that would peak the interest of those who like the extraterrestrials. Its very nice to see a story that strays away from the typical vampire/werewolf/faerie character. I thought the concept of the cicada was VERY creative and portrayed in a very different and creepy way! There is a definitive air of mystery to this story that give the readers (and characters) a real sense of unease...I don't want to give too much away! I will say though, that from the first page you truly feel like you're part of the secret.
I did feel as if the story was a little too quick though and I would have liked to have seen a little bit more progression in the plot. The summer just seemed to fly by! If it were to have slowed down a bit, I think that there could have been some great potential to delve a little bit deeper into the story and how certain scenarios came to be. A lot of the times we were simply being told what had happened, instead of being shown and that caused me to be a little disconnected. I will say that the ending was sadly sweet and really does envoke some heart wrenching emotion! I also wish there was a bit more detail in certain descriptions. After finishing the book I'm having a little trouble picturing what certain characters look like in my head.
Overall, Cicada is a quick read that has opened the door to a potentially new and inventive twist to the sci-fi/paranormal genre. I haven't read another story quite like it and look forward to seeing where the sequel, Firefly, will take you. I'm crossing my fingers for a happy ending for Blair, Andrew, Everett and the rest of the gang!
The plot of this book is something definitely new to me, since I haven't picked up a lot of sci-fi, so I was treading in unfamiliar territory for the most part. I found the story to be an original and unique creation that would peak the interest of those who like the extraterrestrials. Its very nice to see a story that strays away from the typical vampire/werewolf/faerie character. I thought the concept of the cicada was VERY creative and portrayed in a very different and creepy way! There is a definitive air of mystery to this story that give the readers (and characters) a real sense of unease...I don't want to give too much away! I will say though, that from the first page you truly feel like you're part of the secret.
I did feel as if the story was a little too quick though and I would have liked to have seen a little bit more progression in the plot. The summer just seemed to fly by! If it were to have slowed down a bit, I think that there could have been some great potential to delve a little bit deeper into the story and how certain scenarios came to be. A lot of the times we were simply being told what had happened, instead of being shown and that caused me to be a little disconnected. I will say that the ending was sadly sweet and really does envoke some heart wrenching emotion! I also wish there was a bit more detail in certain descriptions. After finishing the book I'm having a little trouble picturing what certain characters look like in my head.
Overall, Cicada is a quick read that has opened the door to a potentially new and inventive twist to the sci-fi/paranormal genre. I haven't read another story quite like it and look forward to seeing where the sequel, Firefly, will take you. I'm crossing my fingers for a happy ending for Blair, Andrew, Everett and the rest of the gang!
August 30, 2013
Can you keep a secret?
If you can, then please proceed in reading my review.
If not then I'm afraid, you can look no further :)..............
Yeah so I fricking LOVED this book, and no I'm not just saying that because I have to, to make Belle look awesome, I truly enjoyed reading this book!
So from reading the blurb on this book, it really doesn't give us much on what we are about to read, what adventure we are about to embark on, this I found was a good idea, although some people may think different :)
This book is about a group of teens, who will be heading off the college after the summer ends, all but one though. Blair isn't in the same age group as her friends and her brother.
We are thrust into a world of Sci-Fi, UFO sightings, crop circles and Aliens.
Belle has done a good job in the development of each character, there not rushed into, not too much in depth, their likeable and she gives us a glimpse of their strengths & weaknesses as individuals and as a group in all.
Cicada is one of those books that keeps you totally engrossed in the story line, and you just NEED to continue to read what is on the next page. The story was mysterious and slightly dangerous but it was seriously thrilling and exhilarating. I loved how Belle added some of her real life experience of the Crop Circle into this book, it makes the reading feel and sound more realistic, more in true form.
Everett is the nerdy gone HOT kind of guy in this book! I want a piece of Everett, even with his Alien-type qualities/abilities ;)
Andrew is the protective brother, who wants to prove himself worthy because of the tragedy that happened to his father and Andrews twin brother, Aaron.
Blair is a strong, confident girl, who isn't afraid of taking something head on. She's tough in her own mind and LOVES Everett. I love her nickname for Everett - Bug Boy :)
David is Andrew's best friend, they have got each other's back no matter what, there's a scene in this book that proves it!
Natalie is David's love interest, they sound good together in the book, and also is Blair's best friend. We don't get to hear much about Natalie as an individual, but I'm sure we will see more.
I literally cried for Blair at the end, seriously Belle, WHAT THE HELL! You can't leave a girl hanging GEEZE LOUISE!
I can't wait to sink my teeth into "Firefly" the second instalment in this series :)
What's going to happen with Everett?
What's Andrew going to do?
Will Blair see Everett again?
What mysteries will the "Gang" find themselves thrust upon in "Firefly"
If you can, then please proceed in reading my review.
If not then I'm afraid, you can look no further :)..............
Yeah so I fricking LOVED this book, and no I'm not just saying that because I have to, to make Belle look awesome, I truly enjoyed reading this book!
So from reading the blurb on this book, it really doesn't give us much on what we are about to read, what adventure we are about to embark on, this I found was a good idea, although some people may think different :)
This book is about a group of teens, who will be heading off the college after the summer ends, all but one though. Blair isn't in the same age group as her friends and her brother.
We are thrust into a world of Sci-Fi, UFO sightings, crop circles and Aliens.
Belle has done a good job in the development of each character, there not rushed into, not too much in depth, their likeable and she gives us a glimpse of their strengths & weaknesses as individuals and as a group in all.
Cicada is one of those books that keeps you totally engrossed in the story line, and you just NEED to continue to read what is on the next page. The story was mysterious and slightly dangerous but it was seriously thrilling and exhilarating. I loved how Belle added some of her real life experience of the Crop Circle into this book, it makes the reading feel and sound more realistic, more in true form.
Everett is the nerdy gone HOT kind of guy in this book! I want a piece of Everett, even with his Alien-type qualities/abilities ;)
Andrew is the protective brother, who wants to prove himself worthy because of the tragedy that happened to his father and Andrews twin brother, Aaron.
Blair is a strong, confident girl, who isn't afraid of taking something head on. She's tough in her own mind and LOVES Everett. I love her nickname for Everett - Bug Boy :)
David is Andrew's best friend, they have got each other's back no matter what, there's a scene in this book that proves it!
Natalie is David's love interest, they sound good together in the book, and also is Blair's best friend. We don't get to hear much about Natalie as an individual, but I'm sure we will see more.
I literally cried for Blair at the end, seriously Belle, WHAT THE HELL! You can't leave a girl hanging GEEZE LOUISE!
I can't wait to sink my teeth into "Firefly" the second instalment in this series :)
What's going to happen with Everett?
What's Andrew going to do?
Will Blair see Everett again?
What mysteries will the "Gang" find themselves thrust upon in "Firefly"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
May 26, 2012This book was surprising in so many ways. I have a very fragile relationship with the entire not human thing. However Belle Whittington has created a well written and intriguing story. There wasn't a point where I felt it was too much or got board with the story. The characters were so realistic and believable and to be honest the story was more about them than anything. I think that was one of the biggest things for me, that the story wasn't just about "It" but about the secrets and what was going on in their lives. That's not to say that "It"didn't make the story but more so that it didn't run it.
"This story takes place in an outwardly unimportant little town.
Looks can be deceiving."
Blair is the baby of the group. She has always hung out with her older brothers friends and this summer everyone is getting ready to say good bye. That's kind of how everything starts. Being out on Blair and her brothers grand parents farm when things take an odd turn. Blair is having nightmares and you only get bits and pieces of what they are but they are a piece of the puzzle that I grasped every time.
"I woke up screaming. Not because of the dream, but because someone
was shaking me and telling me to wake up."
You can't help but feel a little of what each of the characters feel. I would like to be like Everett but I think my reaction would be to freak out like Natalie. I honestly love that these teens are just regular teens. They aren't the rich and famous or the popular people, they are just a tight group of friends. There is a little bit of everything in the group and everyone seems to support one another for the most part. I would like to say 100% of the time but when you read it you will understand why in certain moments they don't. The summer leaves them all changed and really there is no way to go back.
"I've been thinking about something," she checked her makeup in the
mirror. "I've been wondering which one of us is the real Cicada."
Biggest thing with this book is that I wanted more at times. By this I mean I wanted a little more in way of explanations for things. For the most part I was good but the things that I felt were missing could have changed this into an epic book. With that said I must mention that I had no desire to put this book down and got irritated when I had to put it down to do things. I can't wait to get Firefly and continue on with this sci-fi/paranormal/mystery.
"This story takes place in an outwardly unimportant little town.
Looks can be deceiving."
Blair is the baby of the group. She has always hung out with her older brothers friends and this summer everyone is getting ready to say good bye. That's kind of how everything starts. Being out on Blair and her brothers grand parents farm when things take an odd turn. Blair is having nightmares and you only get bits and pieces of what they are but they are a piece of the puzzle that I grasped every time.
"I woke up screaming. Not because of the dream, but because someone
was shaking me and telling me to wake up."
You can't help but feel a little of what each of the characters feel. I would like to be like Everett but I think my reaction would be to freak out like Natalie. I honestly love that these teens are just regular teens. They aren't the rich and famous or the popular people, they are just a tight group of friends. There is a little bit of everything in the group and everyone seems to support one another for the most part. I would like to say 100% of the time but when you read it you will understand why in certain moments they don't. The summer leaves them all changed and really there is no way to go back.
"I've been thinking about something," she checked her makeup in the
mirror. "I've been wondering which one of us is the real Cicada."
Biggest thing with this book is that I wanted more at times. By this I mean I wanted a little more in way of explanations for things. For the most part I was good but the things that I felt were missing could have changed this into an epic book. With that said I must mention that I had no desire to put this book down and got irritated when I had to put it down to do things. I can't wait to get Firefly and continue on with this sci-fi/paranormal/mystery.
June 26, 2012
Okay let me just tell you that this book took me by surprise. I did not know what it was about as the summary doesn’t give a whole lot away. I have not read any alien books (that I remember) but if this is how they are I definitely would like to read more books like this. I give this book 5 stars because that is as high as I can go.
Plot – I loved the storyline. It was unique and really drew me in and kept me reading. The first part of the book was a little slower compared to the rest of it because it is introducing you to Blair, her friends and family. From the time they first see something strange until the end of the book there is always something new or another mystery to figure out. They are always going and checking things out when they should just run. This book packs a lot in to a shorter story. I did not want it to end. I also liked how the pieces of the puzzle are slowly put together but then there are more questions to keep you wanting to read to figure it all out.
Characters – The characters in this story are three dimensional with everyday problems. I love that Everett wanted to be an entomologist and had his own bug room. My son was in Entomology in 4-H and I wish we had a storage unit we could have put all of that in also. I feel bad for Blair as she is the youngest in the group and is getting left behind when everyone else goes to college. She is very smart and stubborn and wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up. Blair’s older brother Andrew also struggles in this story. I liked this that he was going to go to seminary after high school but then ends up rethinking his life’s path.
Ending – The ending left it open for the next installment which I like but now I wish I hadn’t found this book until they were all already out because I am dying to read the next in the series. The next book sounds like it will have even more action, mystery and suspense.
All in all I absolutely loved this book. I can’t wait to read the next in the series Firefly. I would like to know why Blair’s mother and grandparents think they need to hide everything from her instead of just telling her. It makes for a more interesting part of the book but if I was living her life I would be frustrated beyond belief with my brother and Everett as well as my mother and grandparents. The only complaint I can find on this book is that it wasn’t longer.
*received book for review as part of the tour
Plot – I loved the storyline. It was unique and really drew me in and kept me reading. The first part of the book was a little slower compared to the rest of it because it is introducing you to Blair, her friends and family. From the time they first see something strange until the end of the book there is always something new or another mystery to figure out. They are always going and checking things out when they should just run. This book packs a lot in to a shorter story. I did not want it to end. I also liked how the pieces of the puzzle are slowly put together but then there are more questions to keep you wanting to read to figure it all out.
Characters – The characters in this story are three dimensional with everyday problems. I love that Everett wanted to be an entomologist and had his own bug room. My son was in Entomology in 4-H and I wish we had a storage unit we could have put all of that in also. I feel bad for Blair as she is the youngest in the group and is getting left behind when everyone else goes to college. She is very smart and stubborn and wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up. Blair’s older brother Andrew also struggles in this story. I liked this that he was going to go to seminary after high school but then ends up rethinking his life’s path.
Ending – The ending left it open for the next installment which I like but now I wish I hadn’t found this book until they were all already out because I am dying to read the next in the series. The next book sounds like it will have even more action, mystery and suspense.
All in all I absolutely loved this book. I can’t wait to read the next in the series Firefly. I would like to know why Blair’s mother and grandparents think they need to hide everything from her instead of just telling her. It makes for a more interesting part of the book but if I was living her life I would be frustrated beyond belief with my brother and Everett as well as my mother and grandparents. The only complaint I can find on this book is that it wasn’t longer.
*received book for review as part of the tour
October 19, 2012
I wanted to read "Cicada" from the first second that I looked at her. I wanted to buy it, but I have not from where to, so I participated at Belle's giveaway on facebook. And guess what? I won! I was so happy! Three weeks later,"Cicada" was arriving to me, and I begun to read it. It took me so long because of school, and I haven't enought time to read. But right now, I can say that this stunning book deserve to be read by everybody!
Blair is the main character. She's sweet, strong, beautiful, a good friend and brave. I loved Blair. She and her friends, Andrew, her big brother, Natalie, David and Everett are very close to each other. I enjoyed that this story isn't a typical one, and that's it's complicated. Blair's father and brother died a few time ago. It's the beggining of summer, and she and her friends want to have fun, because when the school is going to begun, Blair will be kinda alone, her friends goining to college.
So...I isn't as safe as everyone thinks because they found a weird coccon, and it's complicated. The thing inside is a sort of alien, and the guys name him "Cicada". Everett fascination for bugs stunned me. He seems, at the beginning, the B-F-F guy type, but, during the book he became hot, beautiful, and you can't fall for him. Natalie is a secondary character. She's okay. David is her boyfriend. David seemed to me quite native, always purposing "Kill the Cicada", etc. Andrew is Blair's brother and he's a kind of guy who seem to be who he's not, trying to be like his father and his brother, Aaron.
In the dark woods, the kids are discovering a sort of alien, as I told, and Everett is taking this alien at his depository. The reseachs for the Cicada's origins continue, and the character's attention is catched by a big-weird building. I enjoyed a lot that the book is full of suspence. Is funny, lovely, antrenant and a quick read. I didn't get bored at all! I loved everything! My favorite character whas Blair, but I loved everyone.
Again, I was stunned by Belle's way of writing. She's so good! And more, as person she's kind and sweet and love to speak with her fans.
"Cicada" is a good book. One of my best reads. I enjoyed more and more the way that the story is disposed, beginning with a antrenant plot, continuing with mystery, and finalizing with a explozive end. So antrenant!
About the love story, she's so sweet! So much drama!
Blair is the main character. She's sweet, strong, beautiful, a good friend and brave. I loved Blair. She and her friends, Andrew, her big brother, Natalie, David and Everett are very close to each other. I enjoyed that this story isn't a typical one, and that's it's complicated. Blair's father and brother died a few time ago. It's the beggining of summer, and she and her friends want to have fun, because when the school is going to begun, Blair will be kinda alone, her friends goining to college.
So...I isn't as safe as everyone thinks because they found a weird coccon, and it's complicated. The thing inside is a sort of alien, and the guys name him "Cicada". Everett fascination for bugs stunned me. He seems, at the beginning, the B-F-F guy type, but, during the book he became hot, beautiful, and you can't fall for him. Natalie is a secondary character. She's okay. David is her boyfriend. David seemed to me quite native, always purposing "Kill the Cicada", etc. Andrew is Blair's brother and he's a kind of guy who seem to be who he's not, trying to be like his father and his brother, Aaron.
In the dark woods, the kids are discovering a sort of alien, as I told, and Everett is taking this alien at his depository. The reseachs for the Cicada's origins continue, and the character's attention is catched by a big-weird building. I enjoyed a lot that the book is full of suspence. Is funny, lovely, antrenant and a quick read. I didn't get bored at all! I loved everything! My favorite character whas Blair, but I loved everyone.
Again, I was stunned by Belle's way of writing. She's so good! And more, as person she's kind and sweet and love to speak with her fans.
"Cicada" is a good book. One of my best reads. I enjoyed more and more the way that the story is disposed, beginning with a antrenant plot, continuing with mystery, and finalizing with a explozive end. So antrenant!
About the love story, she's so sweet! So much drama!
March 24, 2012
GENRE: YA Fantasy
THEME: Aliens
RECEIVED: Review Request for Book Tour
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
3.5 Stars
REVIEW:
I didn’t know what to expect with Cicada the synopsis caught my attention right away and the cover didn’t give much of a hit of what to expect. But I truly enjoyed this one of a kind young adult novel. Finally! A book without the usual paranormal creatures and a plot that just kept on making me guess. Though the beginning was a bit slow for me, when it started picking up I couldn’t put this book down.
Blair Reynolds lives in a small town and she is about to start summer with her friends. But it’s a summer that not only is their last together before college, it’s a summer filled with secrets after finding something that know one would ever believe.
Blair is dealing with being the only one a year younger than her friends and brother, all who are going to start college in the fall. Everything started out normal for them all until Blair and her friends discover crop circles in their hometown. Blair is a young girl who lost two people in her family and is struggling with their loss. But her strength starts to show its face once the discovery of this creature is discovered and a friend becomes in danger.
As for the secondary characters my only issue was I couldn’t really connect with any. Even Blair was a bit tough for me to care about, until it got father into the story. In the end Everett won me over with his bug fanatic nerdy self and how much of a mystery he becomes later on. The ending with Everett was a huge bonus for me and now I really want to know how he’s going to grow.
Overall the story panned out to be really interesting, the ending had a big twist and I just wished the beginning had hooked me faster. The science fiction bit were such a breath of fresh air with the alien aspect. The romance was there but minimal and nicely touched on as a hint for future books. I look forward to seeing what happens next and as a science fiction fan I would say you should give this one a try.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a young adult novel that has a science fiction twist, was refreshing and fun. Fans of young adult writers Angeline Kace off Descended by Blood and P.T. Michelle of Brightest Kind of Darkness with enjoy Belle Whittington’s novel Cicada.
THEME: Aliens
RECEIVED: Review Request for Book Tour
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
3.5 Stars
REVIEW:
I didn’t know what to expect with Cicada the synopsis caught my attention right away and the cover didn’t give much of a hit of what to expect. But I truly enjoyed this one of a kind young adult novel. Finally! A book without the usual paranormal creatures and a plot that just kept on making me guess. Though the beginning was a bit slow for me, when it started picking up I couldn’t put this book down.
Blair Reynolds lives in a small town and she is about to start summer with her friends. But it’s a summer that not only is their last together before college, it’s a summer filled with secrets after finding something that know one would ever believe.
Blair is dealing with being the only one a year younger than her friends and brother, all who are going to start college in the fall. Everything started out normal for them all until Blair and her friends discover crop circles in their hometown. Blair is a young girl who lost two people in her family and is struggling with their loss. But her strength starts to show its face once the discovery of this creature is discovered and a friend becomes in danger.
As for the secondary characters my only issue was I couldn’t really connect with any. Even Blair was a bit tough for me to care about, until it got father into the story. In the end Everett won me over with his bug fanatic nerdy self and how much of a mystery he becomes later on. The ending with Everett was a huge bonus for me and now I really want to know how he’s going to grow.
Overall the story panned out to be really interesting, the ending had a big twist and I just wished the beginning had hooked me faster. The science fiction bit were such a breath of fresh air with the alien aspect. The romance was there but minimal and nicely touched on as a hint for future books. I look forward to seeing what happens next and as a science fiction fan I would say you should give this one a try.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a young adult novel that has a science fiction twist, was refreshing and fun. Fans of young adult writers Angeline Kace off Descended by Blood and P.T. Michelle of Brightest Kind of Darkness with enjoy Belle Whittington’s novel Cicada.
June 17, 2012
I'm not entirely sure if i'm allowed to review the book. I mean at the start says i have to keep a secret whatever i've read, right?
*sigh*..Fine..i'll risk it..but i won't give much info..i love my life you know...
Cicada is a small, in general, book and fast. There is so many things happening in, so much action and mystery that it keeps you on the edge of your sit until the end. It's written without too many details, but enough to have you guessing and want to know more. The story has to do with alien creatures, which was something i didn't expect. And i remind me a little of E.T. and Super 8. I can also say it scared me a little at times. I didn't know if the creatures in the dark were good or bad, and the whole atmosphere was rather creepy so i might freaked a little..just a little though...
There is a big variety of characters. Geeks, "jock-like", cute-silly girls and that makes it interesting. Especially if you think they are all friends. It's a good story, to see how all have things in common and how well they can work together. Also the fact, that the company know each for years and are BFFs, it's something different than what we are used to. Usually, we just meet new people, etc, etc but here you get to follow a team already well strong bonded. The romance of the story, is really cute too. And i say cute because it's the whole best friend thing. No triangles. No anything hard. Wait...it does have some difficulties but that's because of the supernatural element.
Still, i found some things that confused my reading experience. Like, the fact that some things are happening so fast or change so fast, that you don't get to really understand them or enjoy them at their full potential. Especially the last chapters, are so so fast opposite the rest of the book. I felt like the scenes were done in a hurry and things were missing.
Also, i would love to have more of the rest town. The book is focused on the company so much, and loses on the background environment. I wouldn't mind more scenes with the people of the town, the grandpa, the mum and other things like that. Just some random facts, to get to know the world better.
In general is great read. I would totally recommend it and especially if you plan it reading it at night, outdoors. Hehe..
*sigh*..Fine..i'll risk it..but i won't give much info..i love my life you know...
Cicada is a small, in general, book and fast. There is so many things happening in, so much action and mystery that it keeps you on the edge of your sit until the end. It's written without too many details, but enough to have you guessing and want to know more. The story has to do with alien creatures, which was something i didn't expect. And i remind me a little of E.T. and Super 8. I can also say it scared me a little at times. I didn't know if the creatures in the dark were good or bad, and the whole atmosphere was rather creepy so i might freaked a little..just a little though...
There is a big variety of characters. Geeks, "jock-like", cute-silly girls and that makes it interesting. Especially if you think they are all friends. It's a good story, to see how all have things in common and how well they can work together. Also the fact, that the company know each for years and are BFFs, it's something different than what we are used to. Usually, we just meet new people, etc, etc but here you get to follow a team already well strong bonded. The romance of the story, is really cute too. And i say cute because it's the whole best friend thing. No triangles. No anything hard. Wait...it does have some difficulties but that's because of the supernatural element.
Still, i found some things that confused my reading experience. Like, the fact that some things are happening so fast or change so fast, that you don't get to really understand them or enjoy them at their full potential. Especially the last chapters, are so so fast opposite the rest of the book. I felt like the scenes were done in a hurry and things were missing.
Also, i would love to have more of the rest town. The book is focused on the company so much, and loses on the background environment. I wouldn't mind more scenes with the people of the town, the grandpa, the mum and other things like that. Just some random facts, to get to know the world better.
In general is great read. I would totally recommend it and especially if you plan it reading it at night, outdoors. Hehe..
March 2, 2012
I was not expecting such a big story from such a small book. The gorgeous cover deceived me a little because this 198 page adrenaline pack story was about aliens in a small Texas town near Houston (my home town). I’ve always been terrified of aliens after seeing Fire in the Sky so this book was on the scary side for me but you will not find the book in the Horror section in the bookstore. I would say its more of a YA Thriller with a pocket full of romance.
The five main characters, Blair, Andrew, Everett, David and Natalie go through some major changes during their summer before leaving to college. This book is written in Blair’s POV and she is one year younger then her brother and friends and while they are all graduating she is moving up to senior status as fall comes around. The summer starts off just the same an any other in their usual meeting spot at the drive in when you get the suspicious feeling that not all is what it seems in this small community. Buildings start to look suspicious, people are acting a little differently, animal are being skittish, crop circles are mysteriously appearing, and the “haunted wood” holds many surprises for this Texas town.
I was kind of sad to see that Andrew never had a girl to call his own but it was pretty obvious from the beginning that he was a caretaker with a purpose. He’s a good ol’ boy. Well mannered with a good head on his shoulders who take cares of his family. Blair is the youngest and only girl in her family. With Andrew’s twin Aaron and their father not in their lives anymore they have become close as surviving family member usually do. Everett is one of Andrews best friends. He is nerdy, clumsy, awkward but cute. Him and Blair are the closest since Natalie and David are attracted to one another. This is a very close nit group and would do anything to help the other.
The topic of Extraterrestrials really scares me so my heart was beating a mile a minute during most of the book. There was lots of action, mystery and wonder. After getting over my alien aversion it was cool to see where this story was taking me and I was totally hooked. There are still many things left unresolved by the end of the book and I hope the next book comes out soon. I need to know what happens next for everyone.
The five main characters, Blair, Andrew, Everett, David and Natalie go through some major changes during their summer before leaving to college. This book is written in Blair’s POV and she is one year younger then her brother and friends and while they are all graduating she is moving up to senior status as fall comes around. The summer starts off just the same an any other in their usual meeting spot at the drive in when you get the suspicious feeling that not all is what it seems in this small community. Buildings start to look suspicious, people are acting a little differently, animal are being skittish, crop circles are mysteriously appearing, and the “haunted wood” holds many surprises for this Texas town.
I was kind of sad to see that Andrew never had a girl to call his own but it was pretty obvious from the beginning that he was a caretaker with a purpose. He’s a good ol’ boy. Well mannered with a good head on his shoulders who take cares of his family. Blair is the youngest and only girl in her family. With Andrew’s twin Aaron and their father not in their lives anymore they have become close as surviving family member usually do. Everett is one of Andrews best friends. He is nerdy, clumsy, awkward but cute. Him and Blair are the closest since Natalie and David are attracted to one another. This is a very close nit group and would do anything to help the other.
The topic of Extraterrestrials really scares me so my heart was beating a mile a minute during most of the book. There was lots of action, mystery and wonder. After getting over my alien aversion it was cool to see where this story was taking me and I was totally hooked. There are still many things left unresolved by the end of the book and I hope the next book comes out soon. I need to know what happens next for everyone.
October 31, 2011
Some books just feel like they were written for you only. That's how Cicada felt for me. When I was 13, I was obsessed with the TV show Roswell. The dormant UFO-freak in me rejoiced when I learned that Cicada featured a different kind of paranormal, my kind of paranormal (that sounds weird...)
Cicada is a wonderfully constructed story about changes and the end of childhood. After summer ends, four out of five characters are going to college, but a different kind of "change" will send them on different paths. Cicada is quite a short read, but by the end, it feels like you're reading a completely different book. Everything and everyone has changed. As summer moves on, secrets and mysteries come up one after another, and the tone grows darker and heavy with the looming danger and unanswered questions. Characters unfold and grow until you barely recognize them anymore. The superstar of Cicada is Everett, the "bug-boy". Going into details would spoil most of the book, but in short, he's the hottest nerdy ever!
As for reasons why it's not a shiny five stars...The beginning of the story seemed a bit forced, I couldn't "feel" it and the first encounter with the characters was not impressionable. It takes a few chapters, some build-up and action to start seeing them as individuals and the purpose each of them fulfills.
I loved how the romance between Everett and Blair developed. It grows out of true, lifelong friendship. It shows in face of adversity and grows stronger in hard times. That's true love.
I all but exploded with joy when I saw the songs Belle mentions in Cicada. Muse and Fireflies by Owl City. My music. My book. My precious!
Anyway. I hereby pledge my undying love for Belle for not only contacting me and letting me read the book, but also for having written it in first place. I'm really fed up with vampires and werewolves, and I can't even tell you how happy I am that I've come across a few YA novels about the extraterrestrial lately. Hooray for new horizons, new ideas, new worlds, new creatures, new books to pine for.
Cicada is a wonderfully constructed story about changes and the end of childhood. After summer ends, four out of five characters are going to college, but a different kind of "change" will send them on different paths. Cicada is quite a short read, but by the end, it feels like you're reading a completely different book. Everything and everyone has changed. As summer moves on, secrets and mysteries come up one after another, and the tone grows darker and heavy with the looming danger and unanswered questions. Characters unfold and grow until you barely recognize them anymore. The superstar of Cicada is Everett, the "bug-boy". Going into details would spoil most of the book, but in short, he's the hottest nerdy ever!
As for reasons why it's not a shiny five stars...The beginning of the story seemed a bit forced, I couldn't "feel" it and the first encounter with the characters was not impressionable. It takes a few chapters, some build-up and action to start seeing them as individuals and the purpose each of them fulfills.
I loved how the romance between Everett and Blair developed. It grows out of true, lifelong friendship. It shows in face of adversity and grows stronger in hard times. That's true love.
I all but exploded with joy when I saw the songs Belle mentions in Cicada. Muse and Fireflies by Owl City. My music. My book. My precious!
Anyway. I hereby pledge my undying love for Belle for not only contacting me and letting me read the book, but also for having written it in first place. I'm really fed up with vampires and werewolves, and I can't even tell you how happy I am that I've come across a few YA novels about the extraterrestrial lately. Hooray for new horizons, new ideas, new worlds, new creatures, new books to pine for.
August 1, 2012
2/5 stars
more reviews on Maji Bookshelf blog
Cicada's synopsis was very intriguing. I love books that are about uncovering a secret and also about a group of friends banding together for a cause or goal, so I was pretty excited for Cicada. However while the beginning was enjoyable, I have to say the book dragged a lot. Also the ending was out of the blue and I felt it was a bit too rushed. However, Cicada was enjoyable, it had the potential to be more but in the end it was an enjoyable read.
The beginning of the book felt like it was going to be a summer fun read, especially with the group of friends graduating, the happy, summery feel you get when you are having the time of your life. However then a UFO sighting turns their life upside down and they try to find out what they just saw. The chase to finding the truth began. I personally thought this part took way too long. Almost half of the book was of them trying to find out WHAT they just witnessed, and even till the end, there were so many unanswered questions. I just didn't really enjoy how there was so much build up to what is out there but then we get a simplified explanation and a sad farewell to the graduates and a very confused me. I just hoped the complication was resolved in a better way and in a more interesting and just gave justice to all the chase and anticipation that have been building up through the book. Also, lately I've started having issues with protagonists finding out they are in love with their best friend in the last couple of chapters, and unfortunately this happened in Cicada. I had a feeling it was going in that direction, but I prayed that it wouldn't. So I really did not enjoy the romance.
All in all, while Cicada had a lot of pacing and plot issues, the actual story is intriguing and I really want to know WHAT happens next and who these creatures and people are. I hope the next book in the series has more plot and character development to make it more enjoyable.
more reviews on Maji Bookshelf blog
Cicada's synopsis was very intriguing. I love books that are about uncovering a secret and also about a group of friends banding together for a cause or goal, so I was pretty excited for Cicada. However while the beginning was enjoyable, I have to say the book dragged a lot. Also the ending was out of the blue and I felt it was a bit too rushed. However, Cicada was enjoyable, it had the potential to be more but in the end it was an enjoyable read.
The beginning of the book felt like it was going to be a summer fun read, especially with the group of friends graduating, the happy, summery feel you get when you are having the time of your life. However then a UFO sighting turns their life upside down and they try to find out what they just saw. The chase to finding the truth began. I personally thought this part took way too long. Almost half of the book was of them trying to find out WHAT they just witnessed, and even till the end, there were so many unanswered questions. I just didn't really enjoy how there was so much build up to what is out there but then we get a simplified explanation and a sad farewell to the graduates and a very confused me. I just hoped the complication was resolved in a better way and in a more interesting and just gave justice to all the chase and anticipation that have been building up through the book. Also, lately I've started having issues with protagonists finding out they are in love with their best friend in the last couple of chapters, and unfortunately this happened in Cicada. I had a feeling it was going in that direction, but I prayed that it wouldn't. So I really did not enjoy the romance.
All in all, while Cicada had a lot of pacing and plot issues, the actual story is intriguing and I really want to know WHAT happens next and who these creatures and people are. I hope the next book in the series has more plot and character development to make it more enjoyable.
June 20, 2012
When I received Cicada I wasn’t exactly sure what it was about and a good way into the book I still didn’t really know, but that made the book even more enjoyable because you didn’t know what you were going to get. Blair the main character has a tight nit family and a close group of friends which we can talk about later and one night while at her grandparents farm they find a crop circle. Their not sure what it really is or how it got there but there first thoughts are aliens. One night in the woods they find this cocoon with a creature in it and it all goes down hill from there.
In this book we meet many characters which is always good, More characters the merrier! We have our main character Blair who is always really nervous about her brother and best friend Everett doing dangerous stuff because of things happened in the past but she’s strong and she let’s them do what they want. Which is something I really liked about her she wasn’t some annoying clingy girl who was always scared of letting guys leave. Andrew is brother is one of my favorite characters because of the love that he shows for his sister. He’s always making sure she’s safe and he rarely raised his voice to her, and he just sounds like the perfect brother to me.
Next up is Everett, Andrew and Blair’s best friend. I liked him because he’s a nerd and as you know I’m a nerd so he fits in. He loves bugs and animals he couldn’t hurt a fly which is why I’m glad he found the Cicada first which kept the little guy alive for a least a few days anyway. The last two characters are David and Natalie. They are the last two people in the group, and they fit in because every group needs to have a strong guy and a snotty girl and that’s exactly what these two were.
To tell you guys the truth I have never read a book about any type of Aliens before and for awhile I wasn’t exactly sure what I felt about this one but Belle did a great job keeping me interested. Especially with the added romance between Blair and Everett!
In this book we meet many characters which is always good, More characters the merrier! We have our main character Blair who is always really nervous about her brother and best friend Everett doing dangerous stuff because of things happened in the past but she’s strong and she let’s them do what they want. Which is something I really liked about her she wasn’t some annoying clingy girl who was always scared of letting guys leave. Andrew is brother is one of my favorite characters because of the love that he shows for his sister. He’s always making sure she’s safe and he rarely raised his voice to her, and he just sounds like the perfect brother to me.
Next up is Everett, Andrew and Blair’s best friend. I liked him because he’s a nerd and as you know I’m a nerd so he fits in. He loves bugs and animals he couldn’t hurt a fly which is why I’m glad he found the Cicada first which kept the little guy alive for a least a few days anyway. The last two characters are David and Natalie. They are the last two people in the group, and they fit in because every group needs to have a strong guy and a snotty girl and that’s exactly what these two were.
To tell you guys the truth I have never read a book about any type of Aliens before and for awhile I wasn’t exactly sure what I felt about this one but Belle did a great job keeping me interested. Especially with the added romance between Blair and Everett!
November 14, 2011
This book was pretty different than what I have been reading lately. I read plenty of paranormal books, but I have not had that much experience in alien books. I have seen plenty of alien movies, but reading about aliens is just plain different. It is creepier to me for some reason. I got pretty spooked a few times while reading Cicada. And I really liked that about the book! Although it might have been all the bug talk that creeped me out more than the aliens, I'm not sure yet. Haha.
Cicada is really well written, and it kept my interest the whole time. And man, oh man does this book keep you on your toes! I was guessing right up until the end, and I'm still left with unanswered questions. I loved the mystery that is presented in Cicada. Or maybe I should say, semi-presented. It is more like a giant puzzle that everyone has to put together.
I did think it was a little strange that Blair didn't have a single friend her own age. She only knew her brother's friends. But it was a good group of friends, I must say. Everyone had different strengths and they all worked well together. However, everyone was so focused on the mystery that there was not much room left to develop any sort of romance. So when one happened, it just kind of appeared in the story. It was a little random. I would have preferred a little more lead up to the romance in Cicada, but I am thinking there will be more of that in the next book.
I enjoyed Cicada and I have to know what is going to happen with everything we uncovered in the first book. I am so excited to read the second book. It is going to epic! This is not some simple mystery. It is so much more involved than that, and the complexity of it is what I love! I can't wait to see how everything is going to come together. Plus, I still have a ton of questions I need answered.
Cicada is really well written, and it kept my interest the whole time. And man, oh man does this book keep you on your toes! I was guessing right up until the end, and I'm still left with unanswered questions. I loved the mystery that is presented in Cicada. Or maybe I should say, semi-presented. It is more like a giant puzzle that everyone has to put together.
I did think it was a little strange that Blair didn't have a single friend her own age. She only knew her brother's friends. But it was a good group of friends, I must say. Everyone had different strengths and they all worked well together. However, everyone was so focused on the mystery that there was not much room left to develop any sort of romance. So when one happened, it just kind of appeared in the story. It was a little random. I would have preferred a little more lead up to the romance in Cicada, but I am thinking there will be more of that in the next book.
I enjoyed Cicada and I have to know what is going to happen with everything we uncovered in the first book. I am so excited to read the second book. It is going to epic! This is not some simple mystery. It is so much more involved than that, and the complexity of it is what I love! I can't wait to see how everything is going to come together. Plus, I still have a ton of questions I need answered.
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