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Sixteen year old Julia Phillips buries herself in guilt after killing her best friend Monica in a car accident. Julia awoke in the hospital with a broken leg, a new talent for drawing and false memories of the accident, in which she dies and Monica lives. The doctors attribute this to her head injury, but no one can explain how a bracelet engraved with her name ended up at the scene of the accident. A bracelet no one has ever seen before. Classmate Evan Whittaker paid Julia no attention before the accident, let alone after. Now suddenly he’s volunteering to tutor her and offering to drive her home. She can't ignore that his new obsession started after his two-day disappearance last week and that he wears a pendant she’s been drawing for months. When the police show up one night looking for Evan, he begs Julia to run with him, convincing her that Monica is still alive. Julia agrees to go, never guessing where he’s really from.
350 pages, Paperback
First published November 7, 2011
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4888 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 443 reviews
April 11, 2012
Here starts off as a sort of light contemporary romance with a glimpse of possible paranormal elements to come. I wasn't very impressed at first, I felt it was all very cliché, thus I was foreseeing another "same old" predictable paranormal romance. However, at the turn of a page, I was completely baffled by a sudden change of events which essentially transforms it into a rather dystopian/sci-fi novel. This was a very welcome change as, up to this point, I wasn't really feeling it with this book. But boy was it interesting! I can't say very much else without spoilers, but I can tell you that the plot becomes action packed, highly fascinating, and undoubtedly original.
After Julia's accident - the one where her best friend died - things have been a bit off. She can now draw, she has no memory of the accident, and she's suddenly caught the attention of the school hottie. Even though the plot at first didn't completely captivate me, I did find a liking to Julia from the start. I liked her voice and being in her head. It's emotional; her guilt over killing her best friend is tangible, her mindset is realistic and I understood her. This connection to her easily made the seemingly ordinary plot more engaging. Once you hit about half way, though, nothing about the plot is ordinary!
With a fair amount of romance in the story, we do have a pretty big love triangle in the mists. I wasn't particularly fond of it as it felt as if Julia was taking advantage of the situation at one point, but I did like the characters involved. The boys are full of charm and wit; they are definitely a great part of the cast. I think we could have easily done without the current triangle's appearance. The situation is VERY peculiar, though; I do admit that it's thought-provoking, if nothing else.
This being the start of a series, there is more discovering and digesting, than actual world building. We could have gone deeper now that I think about it, but I was so enticed by what we were uncovering that questions only arose afterwards - which is fine since there's more to come. I'm particularly curious about the alternate school from the first part. It sounded very ominous, but nothing came of it. I also hope we get to go back and learn what all happened once Julia's world collapsed.
A complete and fantastic surprise, Here turned out to be extremely different than what I initially expected. We get a story that is exciting, authentic, as well as mind boggling; it makes you contemplate the ramifications of what has happened. I especially recommend it for fans of dystopians who like a deviation from the norm.
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For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
After Julia's accident - the one where her best friend died - things have been a bit off. She can now draw, she has no memory of the accident, and she's suddenly caught the attention of the school hottie. Even though the plot at first didn't completely captivate me, I did find a liking to Julia from the start. I liked her voice and being in her head. It's emotional; her guilt over killing her best friend is tangible, her mindset is realistic and I understood her. This connection to her easily made the seemingly ordinary plot more engaging. Once you hit about half way, though, nothing about the plot is ordinary!
With a fair amount of romance in the story, we do have a pretty big love triangle in the mists. I wasn't particularly fond of it as it felt as if Julia was taking advantage of the situation at one point, but I did like the characters involved. The boys are full of charm and wit; they are definitely a great part of the cast. I think we could have easily done without the current triangle's appearance. The situation is VERY peculiar, though; I do admit that it's thought-provoking, if nothing else.
This being the start of a series, there is more discovering and digesting, than actual world building. We could have gone deeper now that I think about it, but I was so enticed by what we were uncovering that questions only arose afterwards - which is fine since there's more to come. I'm particularly curious about the alternate school from the first part. It sounded very ominous, but nothing came of it. I also hope we get to go back and learn what all happened once Julia's world collapsed.
A complete and fantastic surprise, Here turned out to be extremely different than what I initially expected. We get a story that is exciting, authentic, as well as mind boggling; it makes you contemplate the ramifications of what has happened. I especially recommend it for fans of dystopians who like a deviation from the norm.
--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
January 6, 2012
Interesting premise, but the heroine is a jackass who spends half the book refusing to leave an area that she is in extreme danger in because she can't leave her boyfriend. Even though said boyfriend would have been a hell of a lot safer if she weren't present.
I can't recommend any book that encourages young women to make stupid, self destructive decisions for a boy.
Also, this is the second book I've by this author that leaves the story right in the middle so that you have to buy another book. That's sloppy series building .
I can't recommend any book that encourages young women to make stupid, self destructive decisions for a boy.
Also, this is the second book I've by this author that leaves the story right in the middle so that you have to buy another book. That's sloppy series building .
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November 18, 2015
This book is awesome. I could NOT put it down. I fell in love with Julia right from the start and I feel like she really finds her strength as the book progresses. She is so much stronger than she realizes. I'm beginning to wonder if I will love ALL of Denise Grover Swank's books this much. I haven't disliked one yet. Now I can't wait to read the sequel.
January 14, 2012
Plagued by guilt for her role in her best friend Monica's death, Julia Phillip's life is falling apart at the seams. Her family is disintegrating right before her eyes, buckling under the strain of her reaction to the tragedy. She's shut everyone out, doesn't participate at school and is dangerously close to failing all of her classes. Julia has hit rock bottom, all without her best friend to help her through... the best friend she killed. As if her life couldn't get any worse or more weird, she wakes up from the car crash to find a strange bracelet she's never seen before clasped around her wrist, an inexplicable, new artistic talent, and eerie, unsettling dreams about the accident.
Frustrated by Julia's continued course of self-destructive behavior, her high school guidance counselor threatens to send her to alternative school if Julia doesn't turn herself and her grades around. Toward this end, Julia is assigned a couple of tutors to get her back up to speed in her classwork. When Mr. Popularity himself, Evan Whittaker, volunteers as one of her tutors, Julia is curious, especially in light of the attention he's given her recently. To her surprise, Evan is kind, friendly, and genuinely seems to want to help her, but he's strangely cryptic about his own personal life. With Evan, Julia finally begins to feel the heavy weight she's been shouldering lighten, and yet there's something about Evan's continual evasiveness that sends up a mental red flag. She thinks she may be losing her heart to this sympathetic, mysterious boy, but can she really trust him? After going to school together for years, why after all this time is Evan suddenly interested in her - the homicidal queen of social suicide? And what about the mysterious loner, Reece, who despite his rough edges, seems to have a soft spot for her? Why is Reece able to make her feel more alive and why does he feel so strangely familiar?
There are many reasons why I love Here, but the character of Julia tops the list. Julia's development throughout the book is the most dramatic, her character undergoing the most personal development in the novel. Though this book has strong romantic elements, to me, this book is ultimately a novel about Julia. When Julia is first introduced, she is a a very broken person, wracked with guilt, emotionally checked out and barely functioning. Her depression over killing Monica is crippling, and like many who lose loved ones in a tragic event, she doesn't believe she can be happy again or that she deserves to be. Swank does a fantastic job of connecting the reader to Julia's mental state and her grief. Told in first person by Julia, her voice is candid and real. It's easy to understand what she's feeling and why as she begins to honestly face the deeper underlying issues that she's managed to avoid for months. Both Julia's transition back to the land of the living and her healing process are well done and feel very natural. She doesn't do an immediate 180°, but the unbelievable circumstances she suddenly finds herself in help jar her out of her internally-focused existence, and help her appreciate that life may just be worth living.
As Julia begins to climb out of her months-long hibernation from life, there are two people who reach out in an effort to help her: Evan and Reece. I don't want to say too much about the romance, because it'll reveal too much about the twists the plot begins to make, but I will say, YES. I LOVE it! Yes, there is a love triangle in Here, but it's one that, in my opinion, is very well done. It's tragically complicated, it's heartbreaking and it's passionate. I really sympathize with everyone involved, though there's definitely one guy I love above the other for a myriad of reasons that would spoil things. But I will stay silent on my #team and list-of-whys for now so that I don't sway your perception, Dear Reader, when you're nose-deep in Here. However, you’re more than welcome to email me if you just have to know.
In regard to the story itself, what I found extremely interesting is that the book starts out very much like a contemporary novel, though not completely of course. There are definitely strange goings-on that remind you that there's something out of the ordinary a brewing, leaving my mind to puzzle and theorize. However the first half of the novel mostly focuses on Julia, her depression and her journey. Then... all of the sudden, the story radically changes and I am falling down the rabbit hole into something akin to a really good episode of Fringe. Everything starts coming together and the behind-the-scenes strangeness of the first half of the novel suddenly starts clicking together -- all the loose ends tying together nicely into a well done, cohesive plot. It's fascinating, and Swank's switch in gears is done very smoothly and is well-developed. The twists and turns and Swank's seemingly effortless navigation of them are some of the reasons I love this book so much.
Overall, with a fantastic, sympathetic heroine, two swoon-worthy leading men, and a plot whose twists and turns left me breathlessly wanting more, Here by Denise Grover Swank is a beautifully complicated, wonderfully bittersweet paranormal romance that totally hit the mark for me on all fronts.
Frustrated by Julia's continued course of self-destructive behavior, her high school guidance counselor threatens to send her to alternative school if Julia doesn't turn herself and her grades around. Toward this end, Julia is assigned a couple of tutors to get her back up to speed in her classwork. When Mr. Popularity himself, Evan Whittaker, volunteers as one of her tutors, Julia is curious, especially in light of the attention he's given her recently. To her surprise, Evan is kind, friendly, and genuinely seems to want to help her, but he's strangely cryptic about his own personal life. With Evan, Julia finally begins to feel the heavy weight she's been shouldering lighten, and yet there's something about Evan's continual evasiveness that sends up a mental red flag. She thinks she may be losing her heart to this sympathetic, mysterious boy, but can she really trust him? After going to school together for years, why after all this time is Evan suddenly interested in her - the homicidal queen of social suicide? And what about the mysterious loner, Reece, who despite his rough edges, seems to have a soft spot for her? Why is Reece able to make her feel more alive and why does he feel so strangely familiar?
There are many reasons why I love Here, but the character of Julia tops the list. Julia's development throughout the book is the most dramatic, her character undergoing the most personal development in the novel. Though this book has strong romantic elements, to me, this book is ultimately a novel about Julia. When Julia is first introduced, she is a a very broken person, wracked with guilt, emotionally checked out and barely functioning. Her depression over killing Monica is crippling, and like many who lose loved ones in a tragic event, she doesn't believe she can be happy again or that she deserves to be. Swank does a fantastic job of connecting the reader to Julia's mental state and her grief. Told in first person by Julia, her voice is candid and real. It's easy to understand what she's feeling and why as she begins to honestly face the deeper underlying issues that she's managed to avoid for months. Both Julia's transition back to the land of the living and her healing process are well done and feel very natural. She doesn't do an immediate 180°, but the unbelievable circumstances she suddenly finds herself in help jar her out of her internally-focused existence, and help her appreciate that life may just be worth living.
As Julia begins to climb out of her months-long hibernation from life, there are two people who reach out in an effort to help her: Evan and Reece. I don't want to say too much about the romance, because it'll reveal too much about the twists the plot begins to make, but I will say, YES. I LOVE it! Yes, there is a love triangle in Here, but it's one that, in my opinion, is very well done. It's tragically complicated, it's heartbreaking and it's passionate. I really sympathize with everyone involved, though there's definitely one guy I love above the other for a myriad of reasons that would spoil things. But I will stay silent on my #team and list-of-whys for now so that I don't sway your perception, Dear Reader, when you're nose-deep in Here. However, you’re more than welcome to email me if you just have to know.
In regard to the story itself, what I found extremely interesting is that the book starts out very much like a contemporary novel, though not completely of course. There are definitely strange goings-on that remind you that there's something out of the ordinary a brewing, leaving my mind to puzzle and theorize. However the first half of the novel mostly focuses on Julia, her depression and her journey. Then... all of the sudden, the story radically changes and I am falling down the rabbit hole into something akin to a really good episode of Fringe. Everything starts coming together and the behind-the-scenes strangeness of the first half of the novel suddenly starts clicking together -- all the loose ends tying together nicely into a well done, cohesive plot. It's fascinating, and Swank's switch in gears is done very smoothly and is well-developed. The twists and turns and Swank's seemingly effortless navigation of them are some of the reasons I love this book so much.
Overall, with a fantastic, sympathetic heroine, two swoon-worthy leading men, and a plot whose twists and turns left me breathlessly wanting more, Here by Denise Grover Swank is a beautifully complicated, wonderfully bittersweet paranormal romance that totally hit the mark for me on all fronts.
February 2, 2012
I wanted to like this novel, but felt like it was trying to do too much and b e too many things. I found this novel to be full of cliches, both in plot and characters. The overall idea of the plot was good, but it just didn't work for me. At the half-way mark, the story finally picked up. But then, it went way too fast. Leaving little room for actual plot development. Instead, we got a love triangle between two boys in love with a girl whose died and the girl whose died alternate universe's counterpart.
While I like both universes Reece's, I found Evan to be very obsessive, possessive, and creepy. He basically risks his life, the life of his friend,and maybe his whole world for girl. Yes, he's loved her his whole live, but it was still dumb and selfish. Julia started out as a depressed, but somewhat likeable main character. She ended up a girl who rushes in without thinking and whose apparently in love with two boys - both of whom she's known only a handful of days. Yes, the dead Julia's memories seem to have somewhat merged with hers, but still. . .Julia barely knows Evan or Reece.
As for the writing style, I didn't like it at all. It was a lot of tell and little show. At times it felt like I was reading fanfiction of a show I've never seen. Plus, the "evil" General and government of Evan and Other!Reece's world - they came off like huge cliches of what someone thinks a sci-fi story's villains should be.
Overall - a 2.8 out of 5. (Rounded up to a 3 for this site) Borrow it, don't buy.
While I like both universes Reece's, I found Evan to be very obsessive, possessive, and creepy. He basically risks his life, the life of his friend,and maybe his whole world for girl. Yes, he's loved her his whole live, but it was still dumb and selfish. Julia started out as a depressed, but somewhat likeable main character. She ended up a girl who rushes in without thinking and whose apparently in love with two boys - both of whom she's known only a handful of days. Yes, the dead Julia's memories seem to have somewhat merged with hers, but still. . .Julia barely knows Evan or Reece.
As for the writing style, I didn't like it at all. It was a lot of tell and little show. At times it felt like I was reading fanfiction of a show I've never seen. Plus, the "evil" General and government of Evan and Other!Reece's world - they came off like huge cliches of what someone thinks a sci-fi story's villains should be.
Overall - a 2.8 out of 5. (Rounded up to a 3 for this site) Borrow it, don't buy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2012
Read more reviews here!
Julia was in car accident that killed her best friend and she has been barely living with that for the last six months. Then she "meets" Evan, the popular guy she's never talked to before but has suddenly taken an interest in her. Everyone who knows him says that he's acting differently since he disappeared a week earlier, but Julia is flattered by the attention. As she's becoming involved, the police show up looking for him. Instead of turning him in, she protects him and he offers her a way to see her dead best friend... but she is unprepared for where she ends up.
The author doesn't really make it clear about what the book's about until halfway through... however the prologue should give a big clue. By the cover- the reason I picked this one to read- it looks like it's about ghosts or some other paranormal entity. It's not. The cover does not in any way reflect what the book is ultimately about.
Actually, the book kind of felt like two different books put together. The first half was like a regular "girl meets boy with a dash of paranormal" story. This part was slow, with Julia slowly coming out of her depression and worrying about school and Evan's sudden interest. At this point I was suspecting where it was going to go but it wasn't advancing much. The second half was a dystopian story with nothing but action and a sudden love triangle. I did think this part was far more interesting, but also provided most of my hate for Julia.
And that brings me to Julia, who I don't think I can fully rant about without some spoilers...
As a rule, I don't like these types of books. On top of that, I just couldn't get past the problem of Julia and her overwhelming stupidity. The book was an easy read, but dragged a lot in the first half. I actually stopped reading for several days just because it wasn't that interesting. While it picked up in the second half, it just wasn't enough to change how I felt about it. It ended with the setup for the next book, but I have no desire to read it.
Julia was in car accident that killed her best friend and she has been barely living with that for the last six months. Then she "meets" Evan, the popular guy she's never talked to before but has suddenly taken an interest in her. Everyone who knows him says that he's acting differently since he disappeared a week earlier, but Julia is flattered by the attention. As she's becoming involved, the police show up looking for him. Instead of turning him in, she protects him and he offers her a way to see her dead best friend... but she is unprepared for where she ends up.
The author doesn't really make it clear about what the book's about until halfway through... however the prologue should give a big clue. By the cover- the reason I picked this one to read- it looks like it's about ghosts or some other paranormal entity. It's not. The cover does not in any way reflect what the book is ultimately about.
Actually, the book kind of felt like two different books put together. The first half was like a regular "girl meets boy with a dash of paranormal" story. This part was slow, with Julia slowly coming out of her depression and worrying about school and Evan's sudden interest. At this point I was suspecting where it was going to go but it wasn't advancing much. The second half was a dystopian story with nothing but action and a sudden love triangle. I did think this part was far more interesting, but also provided most of my hate for Julia.
And that brings me to Julia, who I don't think I can fully rant about without some spoilers...
As a rule, I don't like these types of books. On top of that, I just couldn't get past the problem of Julia and her overwhelming stupidity. The book was an easy read, but dragged a lot in the first half. I actually stopped reading for several days just because it wasn't that interesting. While it picked up in the second half, it just wasn't enough to change how I felt about it. It ended with the setup for the next book, but I have no desire to read it.
September 7, 2013
(Source: I won a digital copy of this book. Thanks to author Denise Grover Swank.)
16-year-old Julia is suffering from depression, and her life is falling to pieces following the death of her best friend Monica.
When popular boy Evan volunteers to tutor her to stop her having to transfer to the ‘alternative’ school, she agrees, but never expects for him to seem to develop feelings for her.
Evan seems to have had a bit of a personality transplant over the previous 2 weeks though, and when police show up looking for him, Julia doesn’t know what is going on. She knows that she trusts him enough to help him though.
What is going on with Evan? Why does Julia keep remembering things that never happened? And where does he want her to go with him?
I thought this was a great book, I loved the tension and suspense, and I even agonised over the love triangle!
I liked Julia. I totally got why she was so upset over her best friend’s death, especially considering her part in it, and I could easily see why she’d been having such trouble concentrating in school, and finding the will to go on.
I liked the storyline in this. It was one of those books where there was so much mystery over what was going on, but just enough breadcrumbs to keep you reading, desperate to find out what was really going on. I thought the tension in this story was built up really well, and it definitely sucked me in.
There were a couple of little niggles in the plot at points, things that seemed a little unlikely, but these didn’t really interrupt my enjoyment of the story.
I thought that the romance in this was really good. I know some people might have considered it a bit insta-love-esque, but the way the story then built up the background, it was obvious that it wasn’t. I even agonised over the love-triangle, as much as I hate to admit it! I saw it coming, but I also could not see how she could possibly pick between the two boys – feeling almost obligated to one, whilst knowing that she loved the other – just heart-breaking!
There was a big show-down at the end, but this obviously wasn’t the end of the story, so we got a bit of a ‘to-be-continued’ rather than an outright cliff hanger. This obviously wasn’t the end of Julia’s story though, and I’d like to read the next one to find out what happens next!
Overall; a great sci-fi/paranormal romance.
8.5 out of 10.
16-year-old Julia is suffering from depression, and her life is falling to pieces following the death of her best friend Monica.
When popular boy Evan volunteers to tutor her to stop her having to transfer to the ‘alternative’ school, she agrees, but never expects for him to seem to develop feelings for her.
Evan seems to have had a bit of a personality transplant over the previous 2 weeks though, and when police show up looking for him, Julia doesn’t know what is going on. She knows that she trusts him enough to help him though.
What is going on with Evan? Why does Julia keep remembering things that never happened? And where does he want her to go with him?
I thought this was a great book, I loved the tension and suspense, and I even agonised over the love triangle!
I liked Julia. I totally got why she was so upset over her best friend’s death, especially considering her part in it, and I could easily see why she’d been having such trouble concentrating in school, and finding the will to go on.
I liked the storyline in this. It was one of those books where there was so much mystery over what was going on, but just enough breadcrumbs to keep you reading, desperate to find out what was really going on. I thought the tension in this story was built up really well, and it definitely sucked me in.
There were a couple of little niggles in the plot at points, things that seemed a little unlikely, but these didn’t really interrupt my enjoyment of the story.
I thought that the romance in this was really good. I know some people might have considered it a bit insta-love-esque, but the way the story then built up the background, it was obvious that it wasn’t. I even agonised over the love-triangle, as much as I hate to admit it! I saw it coming, but I also could not see how she could possibly pick between the two boys – feeling almost obligated to one, whilst knowing that she loved the other – just heart-breaking!
There was a big show-down at the end, but this obviously wasn’t the end of the story, so we got a bit of a ‘to-be-continued’ rather than an outright cliff hanger. This obviously wasn’t the end of Julia’s story though, and I’d like to read the next one to find out what happens next!
Overall; a great sci-fi/paranormal romance.
8.5 out of 10.
December 20, 2011
I bought and downloaded HERE yesterday, so I could read something while pedaling the elliptical in the gym. I'd heard incredible things about this story and adored Twenty-Eight and Half Wishes, so figured this was a good bet.
Damn it, I was right. I shouldn't have done it! I have revisions on my own novel to finish by January! I have another manuscript to finish by deadline! I don't have time to read good books!
I am sooooo glad I did.
I started Here during my lunch hour and finished it last night. It's a beautifully written story not at all like anything else I've read. Denise is a master at capturing interpersonal conflict and main character, Julia, is up to her armpits in that. Still recovering from the car crash that killed her best friend, Julia is an outcast at school, all but estranged from her father (who I wanted to reach into the book and strangle, by the way), misunderstood by her mother, and antagonized by her little sister. My heart ached for this girl from the first chapter.
As the story unfolds, you not only learn the depths of Julia's despair, but you suffer them right along with her. I was moved to tears several times while reading. When Julia meets Evan, the top of the popularity food chain, I expected things to get better for her.
I was wrong.
Evan is a deliciously flawed character and I can't tell you why without revealing spoilers but trust me - he is what he seems on the surface - a man deeply and truly in love. Denise skillfully introduced questions in my mind that made me wonder and guess what nefarious intentions Evan was hiding. OMG, suffice to tell you Denise had me going down an entirely wrong path and when the truth was revealed, it had be gasping and clutching my Kindle tighter, afraid it would disappear before I could read more. Just when I was convinced Evan and Julia were made to be together, Denise introduces Reece and now I'm torn!
Go, go buy this book immediately.
Damn it, I was right. I shouldn't have done it! I have revisions on my own novel to finish by January! I have another manuscript to finish by deadline! I don't have time to read good books!
I am sooooo glad I did.
I started Here during my lunch hour and finished it last night. It's a beautifully written story not at all like anything else I've read. Denise is a master at capturing interpersonal conflict and main character, Julia, is up to her armpits in that. Still recovering from the car crash that killed her best friend, Julia is an outcast at school, all but estranged from her father (who I wanted to reach into the book and strangle, by the way), misunderstood by her mother, and antagonized by her little sister. My heart ached for this girl from the first chapter.
As the story unfolds, you not only learn the depths of Julia's despair, but you suffer them right along with her. I was moved to tears several times while reading. When Julia meets Evan, the top of the popularity food chain, I expected things to get better for her.
I was wrong.
Evan is a deliciously flawed character and I can't tell you why without revealing spoilers but trust me - he is what he seems on the surface - a man deeply and truly in love. Denise skillfully introduced questions in my mind that made me wonder and guess what nefarious intentions Evan was hiding. OMG, suffice to tell you Denise had me going down an entirely wrong path and when the truth was revealed, it had be gasping and clutching my Kindle tighter, afraid it would disappear before I could read more. Just when I was convinced Evan and Julia were made to be together, Denise introduces Reece and now I'm torn!
Go, go buy this book immediately.
November 15, 2023
https://celebrityreaders.com/2023/11/...
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
3.5 stars — OK, that was actually pretty entertaining! I had some problems here and there with the science and concept, but if I just let go of that crap, it was easy to get sucked into the story. With the prologue at the beginning, I was able to easily guess what the secret was, but that didn’t detract from my enjoyment. I honestly didn’t expect the book to be split into two halves like it was, so it was fun to see more of the story than I was expecting (trying to avoid spoilers here). I’m totally not big on love triangles, so I have a feeling that’s going to be hard to bear, but I’m eminently curious about where this will go in the next book.
ON REREAD:
3.5 stars — A pretty standard early indie YA. It was hard waiting for that shoe to drop, even though I knew from my original read that we’d actually get time once the one big reveal happened.
The characters are okay, though none of them really have me super excited. Julia is struggling with an immense amount of guilt and grief. She definitely has a lot of teenager-isms that make her realistic, but somewhat frustrating. Some of the decisions she makes make me want to shake my head. I feel for her in some areas, and I actually appreciate that the author tried to inject some sanity into her decisions on occasion (like making her question her own instincts and choices).
As for the boys? I’m not exactly excited about either. Evan is clingy and obsessive and over the top. Reece is a bit volatile. Both of them have moments of being dicks, but I guess no more or less than Julia.
Given that we do get a lot of time in the second “part”, I can’t help but feel like I don’t know the purpose of the drawn out first section. I suppose to establish what she’s been through, and make a connection with the boys?
I’m still curious to see where this goes! Finally, I’m going to find out!
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
3.5 stars — OK, that was actually pretty entertaining! I had some problems here and there with the science and concept, but if I just let go of that crap, it was easy to get sucked into the story. With the prologue at the beginning, I was able to easily guess what the secret was, but that didn’t detract from my enjoyment. I honestly didn’t expect the book to be split into two halves like it was, so it was fun to see more of the story than I was expecting (trying to avoid spoilers here). I’m totally not big on love triangles, so I have a feeling that’s going to be hard to bear, but I’m eminently curious about where this will go in the next book.
ON REREAD:
3.5 stars — A pretty standard early indie YA. It was hard waiting for that shoe to drop, even though I knew from my original read that we’d actually get time once the one big reveal happened.
The characters are okay, though none of them really have me super excited. Julia is struggling with an immense amount of guilt and grief. She definitely has a lot of teenager-isms that make her realistic, but somewhat frustrating. Some of the decisions she makes make me want to shake my head. I feel for her in some areas, and I actually appreciate that the author tried to inject some sanity into her decisions on occasion (like making her question her own instincts and choices).
As for the boys? I’m not exactly excited about either. Evan is clingy and obsessive and over the top. Reece is a bit volatile. Both of them have moments of being dicks, but I guess no more or less than Julia.
Given that we do get a lot of time in the second “part”, I can’t help but feel like I don’t know the purpose of the drawn out first section. I suppose to establish what she’s been through, and make a connection with the boys?
I’m still curious to see where this goes! Finally, I’m going to find out!
May 31, 2018
It is a good book. Julia is the likable high school outsider - gloomy, quiet, artistic, loner. What's there not to like? Her best friend, Monica, has died and Julia is mourning. Suddenly a popular boy, Evan, takes a notice in her and her world is turned upside down. Not the normal, high school love turned upside down. Completely different.
Two parallel worlds? Two Julias? Everyone has another being in the parallel world? In this scenerio events are opposite in the worlds. Julia live in one and Monica died, but in the parallel world Julia died and Monica lives. Guess where Evan is from and where Julia goes? That is what the book is about.
I gave it a three instead of more because I forgot it was a YA book and I wasn't in the mood for silly teenage thinking which wasn't any fault of the book.
Two parallel worlds? Two Julias? Everyone has another being in the parallel world? In this scenerio events are opposite in the worlds. Julia live in one and Monica died, but in the parallel world Julia died and Monica lives. Guess where Evan is from and where Julia goes? That is what the book is about.
I gave it a three instead of more because I forgot it was a YA book and I wasn't in the mood for silly teenage thinking which wasn't any fault of the book.
June 24, 2019
I love this author and decided to read this book just to check it out. This is not my usual genre to read. This book really had me thinking "what if...". It seems like it is written very differently from Denise's other books. It doesn't sound the same - if that makes sense. I was very curious where this story was going and when they find Monica - a whole world opens up. Alternative universe's, clones, time travel, you must be willing to think about it to "get" this book. The book is written well, the story unique, and it is an intriguing read. If this is your kind of thing - or you want to try something new - this is the book. Story development is great, characters are well written.
May 16, 2016
The only thing nice about this book was the cover. I kid you not.
Everything else was simply dull and annoying. Like that headache I get when I forget my glasses home.
The main character Julia Marie Phillips and the plot in general made me facepalm so hard.
Everything else was simply dull and annoying. Like that headache I get when I forget my glasses home.
The main character Julia Marie Phillips and the plot in general made me facepalm so hard.
July 2, 2014
Julia Phillips doesn’t remember anything about the accident which killed her best friend, Monica, and leaves her feeling confused and guilty. The police think that she’s responsible for the accident, and her schoolmates treat her like a freak. Julia knows that her family is struggling to pretend that everything’s okay, but Julia doesn’t have the strength to play with. All Julia wishes is to die in place of Monica.
Julia’s grades are falling down and she is threatened by the possibility of being sent to alternative school. Her guidance counselor assigns some tutors to help her study. When one of the most popular guys in school, Evan Whittaker, volunteers to be one of the tutors, Julia thinks that it is very strange. Evan didn’t even spare her a glance before the accident, so what is it with thus sudden interest? Why does Evan look at her with such longing and sadness? Evan knows something about the accident. The whole reason why Julia can’t remember anything, why she suddenly possesses drawing skill, and why she owns a bracelet that is not hers from the accident…
I’ve had my share of YA books but Here still managed to caught me by surprise. There is a twist in the middle of the story, one I didn’t see coming. I got a feeling that Evan is something more than a cute tutor and caring friend, but when the whole truth is unveiled, it still took me completely by surprise. I really like the twist even though I did feel as if the book I was reading suddenly switched its genre. The first half part of the book is the kind of sad contemporary I usually read, but for the rest of the book? It’s different. I don’t want to spoil the fun, but you have my word that the result is amazing.
I have to admit that I didn’t really like Julia at first. She annoyed me with the way she ignored her family’s suffering. Maybe I’m just being too hard to her since Julia obviously has gone through many things. But the more I read this book, the more she grows on me. Julia has a low self esteem, but I’m glad that Evan can encourage her little by little to stand up for herself. I guess the most favorite thing I find about Julia is her brilliant mind and her quick asses of her hard situation. I really like Evan’s character too. He’s not perfect and while his actions are considered brave, it is definitely reckless. However, he’s the one who fixes Julia. I doubt Julia would get better if Evan didn’t risk everything and come to her. Evan’s absolute devotion to Julia is very sweet and touching.
Maybe one thing that turned me off a bit about Here is the love triangle aspect. I know some readers who enjoy the love triangle in this book, but honestly, I’m a little put off because of it. I was fully engrossed by Evan in the first half of the book, so the later appearance of Reece kind of shocked me. Both guys are cute, brave, and extraordinarily sweet, but I dislike how Julia is torn between two guys. I can see why Julia is attracted to Reece, but I also think that it’s strange considered her earlier romance with Evan.
In overall, Here is a great book that I would recommend to any fans of YA. When I found this book, I was instantly intrigued by the ghostly cover and the premise from the blurb. I thought this book would be another sad read about letting go and moving on, but it turns out to be so much more! Here is a great surprise and I enjoyed it immensely. I was very impressed with the twist and surprises that are thrown in the book. This book might have a slow start but the actions later kept me grinning with delight. It ends with a cliffhanger and even though the suspense is not enough to make me scream and rip out my hair, it certainly is great enough to leave me wanting to read the next book! I can’t wait to see what happens to Julia, Evan, and Reece’s adventure and the tangled relationship between the three of them.
I stand and tug on his arm. “You have to go!”
He grabs my hand as he rises. “Will you come?
His tear-soaked face waits for my answer. Tears over losing me. All I want is for someone to love me. Need me. I have it here, with him.
In the end, there is no question. I lift my chin. “Yes.”
Read other reviews in my blog! :)
Catch the Lune
Julia’s grades are falling down and she is threatened by the possibility of being sent to alternative school. Her guidance counselor assigns some tutors to help her study. When one of the most popular guys in school, Evan Whittaker, volunteers to be one of the tutors, Julia thinks that it is very strange. Evan didn’t even spare her a glance before the accident, so what is it with thus sudden interest? Why does Evan look at her with such longing and sadness? Evan knows something about the accident. The whole reason why Julia can’t remember anything, why she suddenly possesses drawing skill, and why she owns a bracelet that is not hers from the accident…
I’ve had my share of YA books but Here still managed to caught me by surprise. There is a twist in the middle of the story, one I didn’t see coming. I got a feeling that Evan is something more than a cute tutor and caring friend, but when the whole truth is unveiled, it still took me completely by surprise. I really like the twist even though I did feel as if the book I was reading suddenly switched its genre. The first half part of the book is the kind of sad contemporary I usually read, but for the rest of the book? It’s different. I don’t want to spoil the fun, but you have my word that the result is amazing.
I have to admit that I didn’t really like Julia at first. She annoyed me with the way she ignored her family’s suffering. Maybe I’m just being too hard to her since Julia obviously has gone through many things. But the more I read this book, the more she grows on me. Julia has a low self esteem, but I’m glad that Evan can encourage her little by little to stand up for herself. I guess the most favorite thing I find about Julia is her brilliant mind and her quick asses of her hard situation. I really like Evan’s character too. He’s not perfect and while his actions are considered brave, it is definitely reckless. However, he’s the one who fixes Julia. I doubt Julia would get better if Evan didn’t risk everything and come to her. Evan’s absolute devotion to Julia is very sweet and touching.
Maybe one thing that turned me off a bit about Here is the love triangle aspect. I know some readers who enjoy the love triangle in this book, but honestly, I’m a little put off because of it. I was fully engrossed by Evan in the first half of the book, so the later appearance of Reece kind of shocked me. Both guys are cute, brave, and extraordinarily sweet, but I dislike how Julia is torn between two guys. I can see why Julia is attracted to Reece, but I also think that it’s strange considered her earlier romance with Evan.
In overall, Here is a great book that I would recommend to any fans of YA. When I found this book, I was instantly intrigued by the ghostly cover and the premise from the blurb. I thought this book would be another sad read about letting go and moving on, but it turns out to be so much more! Here is a great surprise and I enjoyed it immensely. I was very impressed with the twist and surprises that are thrown in the book. This book might have a slow start but the actions later kept me grinning with delight. It ends with a cliffhanger and even though the suspense is not enough to make me scream and rip out my hair, it certainly is great enough to leave me wanting to read the next book! I can’t wait to see what happens to Julia, Evan, and Reece’s adventure and the tangled relationship between the three of them.
I stand and tug on his arm. “You have to go!”
He grabs my hand as he rises. “Will you come?
His tear-soaked face waits for my answer. Tears over losing me. All I want is for someone to love me. Need me. I have it here, with him.
In the end, there is no question. I lift my chin. “Yes.”
Read other reviews in my blog! :)
Catch the Lune
July 13, 2012
At first glance, Here’s cover bespeaks loudly of your run-of-the mill paranormal read; wolves? Shifters? Maybe even vampires or ghosts. But never would I have expected a parallel universe. I was getting ready to go to bed when this book caught my eye. It was just sitting on my desk along with my pile of Self-Pub Challenge books. Once I started reading, I was half worried, half excited that it was going to keep me up all night. But alas, I succumbed to tiredness and got through about half of it. In all honesty, I loved about three-quarters of this book and felt so-so about the rest of it. I'll explain further...or I'll cite the circumstances why this book didn't sustain its lovability.
Quick Synopsis: Reeling from the death of her best friend, Julia has all but given up. She was debilitated by guilt and blamed herself for being alive. Her school work has suffered tremendously and her family was on the verge of collapse. At school, she's the proverbial social pariah. That is, until Evan Whittaker, the it boy of James Monroe High started paying her unwanted attention and volunteered to be her tutor. It doesn’t take long until Evan showed signs that he knew more than he was letting on, dropping hints about the past that Julia knew nothing of. After a fight over a bracelet she woke up wearing after the accident, Evan disappeared and a police manhunt ensued. That same night, Evan came calling on Julia and begged her to come away with him. The rest of the story flipped on the side of crazy, as Evan takes Julia to a world where United States was reduced to 10 regions, plants don’t grow, and the world as they knew it, was still suffering from a nuclear fall-out that happened decades in the past.
Whew. That was a mouthful…and hardly quick.
DGS bisected the past and the present, combining them into a reality unheard of. The prologue was set in the 60s at a time when there was a considerable fear of a nuclear attack from the Russians. Though it took a while for Denise to reveal how this would all be melded in the story, it’s what sucked me in to the entire novel as a whole. I couldn’t really tell what this book was about from the summary alone so to eventually find its relation to Julia and Evan’s story was definitely a nice surprise.
As for the characters, Evan gave me quite a worry there for a second. His fascination with Julia seemed a little sudden and unfounded from the start and for a moment, it bordered on instant-love. And when I found out the reason why, my opinion of Evan’s behavior changed from reasonably acceptable to…NOT. I mean, I don’t think he pined for her enough. Knowing what he knew then and knowing how much he loved her, I think Evan’s reaction to Julia was a little subdued, in my opinion, considering how much he mourned for her 'loss'. I may sound a bit confusing and vague now but there are spoilers to consider.
Julia Phillips was a likable character. Though she spent some time moaning about her loss, the author worked very hard at making her a strong character regardless, especially during the times when she had to be the strong one in the family.
This is where it gets tricky. I did say I loved this book but upon Reece's introduction, I started to break out in hives. LOVE TRIANGLE allergies. I hate when that happens. I was sold on the Evan/Julia pairing and though Here has a different spin on this tirednot so romantic arc, I just...I just don't really like it. It's the heroine waffling between two heroes that irritates me. In the end, the wonderful start and the gripping middle just kind of ended on a flat note. Which is unfortunate because that's when things got intense.
VERDICT: Despite the dud ending, I'm glad I got to discover Here for the first time. Denise Grover Swank’s ability to create a well-evolved story truly shows in this book. The over-all ambiguity of the story made for a page-turner that will take you into an alternate universe that stands above some of the dystopian novels you've ever read - and really, this is the best thing about this book: the unexpectedness of where Ms. Swank will take you is simply remarkable. I'm just sorry that my enthusiasm over the book was marred by that dreadful you-know-what.
Quick Synopsis: Reeling from the death of her best friend, Julia has all but given up. She was debilitated by guilt and blamed herself for being alive. Her school work has suffered tremendously and her family was on the verge of collapse. At school, she's the proverbial social pariah. That is, until Evan Whittaker, the it boy of James Monroe High started paying her unwanted attention and volunteered to be her tutor. It doesn’t take long until Evan showed signs that he knew more than he was letting on, dropping hints about the past that Julia knew nothing of. After a fight over a bracelet she woke up wearing after the accident, Evan disappeared and a police manhunt ensued. That same night, Evan came calling on Julia and begged her to come away with him. The rest of the story flipped on the side of crazy, as Evan takes Julia to a world where United States was reduced to 10 regions, plants don’t grow, and the world as they knew it, was still suffering from a nuclear fall-out that happened decades in the past.
Whew. That was a mouthful…and hardly quick.
DGS bisected the past and the present, combining them into a reality unheard of. The prologue was set in the 60s at a time when there was a considerable fear of a nuclear attack from the Russians. Though it took a while for Denise to reveal how this would all be melded in the story, it’s what sucked me in to the entire novel as a whole. I couldn’t really tell what this book was about from the summary alone so to eventually find its relation to Julia and Evan’s story was definitely a nice surprise.
As for the characters, Evan gave me quite a worry there for a second. His fascination with Julia seemed a little sudden and unfounded from the start and for a moment, it bordered on instant-love. And when I found out the reason why, my opinion of Evan’s behavior changed from reasonably acceptable to…NOT. I mean, I don’t think he pined for her enough. Knowing what he knew then and knowing how much he loved her, I think Evan’s reaction to Julia was a little subdued, in my opinion, considering how much he mourned for her 'loss'. I may sound a bit confusing and vague now but there are spoilers to consider.
Julia Phillips was a likable character. Though she spent some time moaning about her loss, the author worked very hard at making her a strong character regardless, especially during the times when she had to be the strong one in the family.
This is where it gets tricky. I did say I loved this book but upon Reece's introduction, I started to break out in hives. LOVE TRIANGLE allergies. I hate when that happens. I was sold on the Evan/Julia pairing and though Here has a different spin on this tired
VERDICT: Despite the dud ending, I'm glad I got to discover Here for the first time. Denise Grover Swank’s ability to create a well-evolved story truly shows in this book. The over-all ambiguity of the story made for a page-turner that will take you into an alternate universe that stands above some of the dystopian novels you've ever read - and really, this is the best thing about this book: the unexpectedness of where Ms. Swank will take you is simply remarkable. I'm just sorry that my enthusiasm over the book was marred by that dreadful you-know-what.
November 20, 2011
I absolutely love the cover!!!!
When she sent me the blurb a few weeks ago I instantly told her I just had to read it! I was so hooked by only the blurb it was no surprise when I couldn't put the book down.
BLURB:
Here – YA Science Fiction On the Otherside series Book One
"Sixteen year old Julia Phillips buries herself in guilt after killing her best friend Monica in a car accident. Julia awoke in the hospital with a broken leg, a new talent for drawing and false memories of the accident, in which she dies and Monica lives. The doctors attribute this to her head injury, but no one can explain how a bracelet engraved with her name ended up at the scene of the accident. A bracelet no one has ever seen before.
Classmate Evan Whittaker paid Julia no attention before the accident, let alone after. Now suddenly he’s volunteering to tutor her and offering to drive her home. She can’t ignore that his new obsession started after his two-day disappearance last week and that he wears a pendant she’s been drawing for months. When the police show up one night looking for Evan, he begs Julia to run with him, convincing her that Monica is still alive. Julia agrees to go, never guessing where he’s really from."
Now tell me you're not completely hooked! She's good at that.. I know your secret Miss Swank!
It should however, be conisdered a Mystery as well, as until close to the end you are still biting your nails wondering what the heck is going on (in a good way.) It truly had me on edge the whole time I read, thinking I knew what was going on and then BAM! You didn't see that one coming!
The Sci-fy side of the story (my reviews give nothing away and i barely write about the story per se, so you will have to read it to see what's up) is great and makes you wonder how much truth could there really be behind it all.
The Romance... oh God, do not get me started! I still do not know who I am rooting for. I fell in love with both male characters and they are both equaly amazing and HOT! At least that is what I see in my head *blushes* She had me longing for both boys, wanting to throw my arms around who ever was feeling left aside. However, something deep in me cried for Reece. I don't know what it was, maybe because she was somewhat expected to be with Evan..? Anywho, she can keep Evan and you can mail me Reece.. I make the same comment all the time, dont I? haha, i just love these guys! I am making my own little army of YA hunks ;)
"Here" had me laughing, crying my butt off to the point I had to put it down and on the edge of my seat wanting to finish it right then and there.
Denise Grover Swank has really done it with this one! It is an excellent read and will not disappoint.
When she sent me the blurb a few weeks ago I instantly told her I just had to read it! I was so hooked by only the blurb it was no surprise when I couldn't put the book down.
BLURB:
Here – YA Science Fiction On the Otherside series Book One
"Sixteen year old Julia Phillips buries herself in guilt after killing her best friend Monica in a car accident. Julia awoke in the hospital with a broken leg, a new talent for drawing and false memories of the accident, in which she dies and Monica lives. The doctors attribute this to her head injury, but no one can explain how a bracelet engraved with her name ended up at the scene of the accident. A bracelet no one has ever seen before.
Classmate Evan Whittaker paid Julia no attention before the accident, let alone after. Now suddenly he’s volunteering to tutor her and offering to drive her home. She can’t ignore that his new obsession started after his two-day disappearance last week and that he wears a pendant she’s been drawing for months. When the police show up one night looking for Evan, he begs Julia to run with him, convincing her that Monica is still alive. Julia agrees to go, never guessing where he’s really from."
Now tell me you're not completely hooked! She's good at that.. I know your secret Miss Swank!
It should however, be conisdered a Mystery as well, as until close to the end you are still biting your nails wondering what the heck is going on (in a good way.) It truly had me on edge the whole time I read, thinking I knew what was going on and then BAM! You didn't see that one coming!
The Sci-fy side of the story (my reviews give nothing away and i barely write about the story per se, so you will have to read it to see what's up) is great and makes you wonder how much truth could there really be behind it all.
The Romance... oh God, do not get me started! I still do not know who I am rooting for. I fell in love with both male characters and they are both equaly amazing and HOT! At least that is what I see in my head *blushes* She had me longing for both boys, wanting to throw my arms around who ever was feeling left aside. However, something deep in me cried for Reece. I don't know what it was, maybe because she was somewhat expected to be with Evan..? Anywho, she can keep Evan and you can mail me Reece.. I make the same comment all the time, dont I? haha, i just love these guys! I am making my own little army of YA hunks ;)
"Here" had me laughing, crying my butt off to the point I had to put it down and on the edge of my seat wanting to finish it right then and there.
Denise Grover Swank has really done it with this one! It is an excellent read and will not disappoint.
April 10, 2012
This is such an awesome book! I could not put it down! Here is mysterious and the characters are enthralling. I spent the first 30% of the book trying to figure Evan out along with Julia.
Speaking of Julia, I immediately connected with her. I felt so bad for her and all she has had to go through. But when she starts to get her "spark" back is when she really got to me. I think everyone will be able to relate to Julia, and that is one of the beautiful things about Denise's writing.
There are two main guys in this book- Evan and Reese but so much of the story focuses on Evan that it was hard to get to know Reese as well. But I ended up liking both of them, and I think I may just be as confused as Julia. I can't wait to see what happens in book 2!!
At times it was hard to determine who was saying what, and what was just a character's thoughts, but I think that might have just been the formatting of the review copy I had. HERE sets the stage for what is going to be an AMAZING series. The second book is called THERE and I am already dying to read it. HERE is one of my favorites for 2012 for sure! The concept is soo cool! You will just have to read it to find out what I mean. This is one book that you definitely do not want spoilers for. I don't want to tell you anything so you can experience it all for yourself. I will tell you this. The writing is great, the characters are well fleshed out and really likable, and the world building is incredible! You need to read HERE right now!
Speaking of Julia, I immediately connected with her. I felt so bad for her and all she has had to go through. But when she starts to get her "spark" back is when she really got to me. I think everyone will be able to relate to Julia, and that is one of the beautiful things about Denise's writing.
There are two main guys in this book- Evan and Reese but so much of the story focuses on Evan that it was hard to get to know Reese as well. But I ended up liking both of them, and I think I may just be as confused as Julia. I can't wait to see what happens in book 2!!
At times it was hard to determine who was saying what, and what was just a character's thoughts, but I think that might have just been the formatting of the review copy I had. HERE sets the stage for what is going to be an AMAZING series. The second book is called THERE and I am already dying to read it. HERE is one of my favorites for 2012 for sure! The concept is soo cool! You will just have to read it to find out what I mean. This is one book that you definitely do not want spoilers for. I don't want to tell you anything so you can experience it all for yourself. I will tell you this. The writing is great, the characters are well fleshed out and really likable, and the world building is incredible! You need to read HERE right now!
April 17, 2012
Upon finishing this book I felt like I had been bitch slapped!
I was left holding my face with my mouth hanging open.
I am shocked: Oh, no you didn't!
I am pissed: What in the hell was that for?
I am amused: LOL! You've got some balls!
I am in awe: Wow!
I am surprised: I can't believe you did that!
I never saw the ending coming.
It's a rare thing to feel as though you've been sucker punched by an inanimate object!
Ingredients
1/2 standard cliche' YA love triangle
1/2 alternate dimension dystopian awesomeness
Directions
Mix vigorously until you feel shook up.
Serve without pinching, poking, or screaming at anyone in the nearby vicinity.
Julia is a despondent, self depreciating, self loathing, and whiny girl that needs some sense slapped into her. (Bella anyone?)
Evan is annoyingly obsessive and borderline stalkerish. (Edward anyone?)
Reese is a lovable and prickly pain in the ass. (Again. Jacob anyone?)
I would recommend this book to anyone reading this review.
It's refreshing.
I was left holding my face with my mouth hanging open.
I am shocked: Oh, no you didn't!
I am pissed: What in the hell was that for?
I am amused: LOL! You've got some balls!
I am in awe: Wow!
I am surprised: I can't believe you did that!
I never saw the ending coming.
It's a rare thing to feel as though you've been sucker punched by an inanimate object!
Ingredients
1/2 standard cliche' YA love triangle
1/2 alternate dimension dystopian awesomeness
Directions
Mix vigorously until you feel shook up.
Serve without pinching, poking, or screaming at anyone in the nearby vicinity.
Julia is a despondent, self depreciating, self loathing, and whiny girl that needs some sense slapped into her. (Bella anyone?)
Evan is annoyingly obsessive and borderline stalkerish. (Edward anyone?)
Reese is a lovable and prickly pain in the ass. (Again. Jacob anyone?)
I would recommend this book to anyone reading this review.
It's refreshing.
January 5, 2013
Ok, based on the cover and the description, I was lead to believe that this was a ghost story. It's not. It's some weird sci-fi story that is clouded with an obscene amount of lame, teenage over-the-top, "I'll die if I can't gaze into your eyes for three seconds" love affairs.
The main character is a ticking time bomb of Lifetime channel emotions. She reels between "dead inside" to ecstatic to enraged to grief-stricken back and forth throughout the last 2/3 of the book. Give the girl some prozac and explain to her teenage hormones. You're not in love with every boy you see. It's called lust. And the world is not stopping because some idiot teenager is giving you gaga eyes (or not).
Won't be picking up the rest in the series. The book ends with a cliff hanger. I like to think they venture off into the unknown and are overtaken by the elements and all die together, in one big, love-filled, over-emotional ball of wasted time and energy.
The main character is a ticking time bomb of Lifetime channel emotions. She reels between "dead inside" to ecstatic to enraged to grief-stricken back and forth throughout the last 2/3 of the book. Give the girl some prozac and explain to her teenage hormones. You're not in love with every boy you see. It's called lust. And the world is not stopping because some idiot teenager is giving you gaga eyes (or not).
Won't be picking up the rest in the series. The book ends with a cliff hanger. I like to think they venture off into the unknown and are overtaken by the elements and all die together, in one big, love-filled, over-emotional ball of wasted time and energy.
March 29, 2015
4.5/5
Wow! What a book! I didn't expect to love it so much since I chose it randomly on ibook. Turns out, I bought the paper version too! This is so great! I cannot wait to read the second one. I'm 100% team Reese! He is such an amazing character. I loved the acknowledgements too, haha! I would like to have a mom who writes a book with my name in it, too (a bit of jealousy here, haha)! So yeah, i'm very excited.
READ THIS BOOK!!!
Ps- note to the author: How, why, where did you find that idea? I mean wow, that is so not déjà vu. It's new and refreshing.
Wow! What a book! I didn't expect to love it so much since I chose it randomly on ibook. Turns out, I bought the paper version too! This is so great! I cannot wait to read the second one. I'm 100% team Reese! He is such an amazing character. I loved the acknowledgements too, haha! I would like to have a mom who writes a book with my name in it, too (a bit of jealousy here, haha)! So yeah, i'm very excited.
READ THIS BOOK!!!
Ps- note to the author: How, why, where did you find that idea? I mean wow, that is so not déjà vu. It's new and refreshing.
January 16, 2013
great book, looking forward to more from this series
November 2, 2018
This may (probably) contain spoilers, didn’t care enough to hide them. Read at your own risk.
I wanted to give this at least 50 pages before deciding how to proceed, but somehow (being curious and all that) I continued it. It’s sad that this has a good idea but it’s not executed well.
At first it’s a normal, cliché beginning of a girl drowning in guilt because of an accident, she is also an outcast, then throw a guy that seems to know more than he’s admitting and you have my curiosity piqued. However curiosity can take you so far, before I knew it they were acting like a couple after only few days of knowing each other and the guy was so in love with her, couldn’t leave her side (emm, no thank you).
The twist was unexpected and gave it a chance to move in another direction, and that direction was making the main character more annoying. She’s blaming other people, Evan, his father, for putting her life in danger in this new world but SHE was the one that wanted to cross, she was the one that said yes (yes, she didn’t know what she’s getting into but it’s no one’s fault but hers). There are happening a lot of contradictions: she wants to leave, then she doesn’t, she doesn’t want to put the lives of the guys in any danger but then she does the exact opposite by not wanting to leave without one of them. Make up your mind.
There’s also a love triangle. Kill me now. It’s so poorly written.
I wanted to give this at least 50 pages before deciding how to proceed, but somehow (being curious and all that) I continued it. It’s sad that this has a good idea but it’s not executed well.
At first it’s a normal, cliché beginning of a girl drowning in guilt because of an accident, she is also an outcast, then throw a guy that seems to know more than he’s admitting and you have my curiosity piqued. However curiosity can take you so far, before I knew it they were acting like a couple after only few days of knowing each other and the guy was so in love with her, couldn’t leave her side (emm, no thank you).
The twist was unexpected and gave it a chance to move in another direction, and that direction was making the main character more annoying. She’s blaming other people, Evan, his father, for putting her life in danger in this new world but SHE was the one that wanted to cross, she was the one that said yes (yes, she didn’t know what she’s getting into but it’s no one’s fault but hers). There are happening a lot of contradictions: she wants to leave, then she doesn’t, she doesn’t want to put the lives of the guys in any danger but then she does the exact opposite by not wanting to leave without one of them. Make up your mind.
There’s also a love triangle. Kill me now. It’s so poorly written.
November 1, 2019
Honestly I wasn’t sure how easy it would be for me to get into this book being a YA. Immediately I was drawn into the story line. No, gradual trying to get hooked or dragging beginning here.
I became so intrigued I didn’t want to go to bed, I wanted the story to continue.
When things got weird (the sci-fi part) it took a few moments to get my head in the right genre. That is only me. The story flowed great, I am just only used to reading more realistic books. Once I got that switch turned in my head oh it was so good! It is a two part so onto “There” to find out what happens!
I became so intrigued I didn’t want to go to bed, I wanted the story to continue.
When things got weird (the sci-fi part) it took a few moments to get my head in the right genre. That is only me. The story flowed great, I am just only used to reading more realistic books. Once I got that switch turned in my head oh it was so good! It is a two part so onto “There” to find out what happens!
March 10, 2018
It took me awhile to get into this one, but I was pleasantly surprised by the twists once I did. Definitely an exciting plot that will keep readers wanting to read more, but for me the characters just weren't all that likable until it was too late to get pulled in.
June 25, 2012
This is one of those books that really surprised me on a lot of levels. I'm still absorbing what I read, so I'm going to try to break this down into coherent pieces.
WHAT IMPRESSED ME
I Cared About Julia
First off, writing about a character that is so terribly depressed is a real challenge to any author. To make a character wallowing in self-destructive behaviors a sympathetic character is not very easy. To make the character likable, even more difficult. To make the reader cheer on the character even when she's being a complete dolt, near impossible. Yet the author did make Julia a character you could deeply care about. Her depression, anger, and guilt all made perfect sense considering the horrible event she endured and survived.
WHAT SURPRISED ME
THE PLOT
The book starts off as a sad tale about a young teenage girl who suffered a terrible loss when her best friend died in a car accident. Julia believes she is responsible for the crash and is haunted by terrible nightmares about the event where she dies instead of her best friend, Monica. As Julia stagnates and does her best not to live, her family disintegrates around her, the school teachers and officials are ready to write her off, and the students at school either ignore her existence or act as though she's the grim reaper. Then enter the very handsome, very sweet popular boy who suddenly has an interest in her and it seems we're heading toward a sweet story of redemption.
But we're not...
The twist in the story was so much fun! I loved it! And I loved how at the halfway point this book turned around and became a totally different book from what I expected.
I didn't read the book synopsis, I just read the book because Giselle from Xpresso Reads said it was good. So glad I went in totally unspoiled.
THE LOVE TRIANGLE
If you've read my previous reviews of books, you will know I loathe love triangles. I seriously hate them. But somehow, I don't know how, the one in HERE actually works. Somehow it came across as plausible, realistic, and complicated. I would even go so far as to say that it's not really clear who Julia should be with: Evan or Reece. Usually in a love triangle it's fairly clear who the lead character should be with and the secondary love interest is just there to make their happily ever after more difficult. In HERE, that is not the case. At least that is how I saw it. I finished the book caring about all three characters, but not quite sure who I'd want Julia to end up with. That was refreshing. I also liked how the boys seemed to have a much better handle on the situation than Julia did. She's a bit all over the place, but I think there is a plausible explanation for it that involves the plot twist.
I'm honestly afraid to write anymore in this review for fear of spoiling it. I really enjoyed this novel a lot and look forward to the future installment(s). I'm not sure if this is a trilogy or a two book series, but either way I want to read more.
I highly recommend this for anyone who likes their books to surprise them.
WHAT IMPRESSED ME
I Cared About Julia
First off, writing about a character that is so terribly depressed is a real challenge to any author. To make a character wallowing in self-destructive behaviors a sympathetic character is not very easy. To make the character likable, even more difficult. To make the reader cheer on the character even when she's being a complete dolt, near impossible. Yet the author did make Julia a character you could deeply care about. Her depression, anger, and guilt all made perfect sense considering the horrible event she endured and survived.
WHAT SURPRISED ME
THE PLOT
The book starts off as a sad tale about a young teenage girl who suffered a terrible loss when her best friend died in a car accident. Julia believes she is responsible for the crash and is haunted by terrible nightmares about the event where she dies instead of her best friend, Monica. As Julia stagnates and does her best not to live, her family disintegrates around her, the school teachers and officials are ready to write her off, and the students at school either ignore her existence or act as though she's the grim reaper. Then enter the very handsome, very sweet popular boy who suddenly has an interest in her and it seems we're heading toward a sweet story of redemption.
But we're not...
The twist in the story was so much fun! I loved it! And I loved how at the halfway point this book turned around and became a totally different book from what I expected.
I didn't read the book synopsis, I just read the book because Giselle from Xpresso Reads said it was good. So glad I went in totally unspoiled.
THE LOVE TRIANGLE
If you've read my previous reviews of books, you will know I loathe love triangles. I seriously hate them. But somehow, I don't know how, the one in HERE actually works. Somehow it came across as plausible, realistic, and complicated. I would even go so far as to say that it's not really clear who Julia should be with: Evan or Reece. Usually in a love triangle it's fairly clear who the lead character should be with and the secondary love interest is just there to make their happily ever after more difficult. In HERE, that is not the case. At least that is how I saw it. I finished the book caring about all three characters, but not quite sure who I'd want Julia to end up with. That was refreshing. I also liked how the boys seemed to have a much better handle on the situation than Julia did. She's a bit all over the place, but I think there is a plausible explanation for it that involves the plot twist.
I'm honestly afraid to write anymore in this review for fear of spoiling it. I really enjoyed this novel a lot and look forward to the future installment(s). I'm not sure if this is a trilogy or a two book series, but either way I want to read more.
I highly recommend this for anyone who likes their books to surprise them.
February 23, 2012
Here (On the Otherside #1) book review
I almost really liked this book...almost...the end killed it for me.
The author started with an interesting premise, but overall it didn't work for me. It was not a bad book, it was just not the book for me. Maybe I was expecting it to be aimed towards more mature reading level audience but it seems to have been written for pre-teens. Incredibly corny and predictable, chock full of cliches, both in plot and characters.
High school drama (check), jealous girlfriend who also happens to be a cheerleader (check), love triangle (check). Add in Sci-Fi lab setting and utopian (but underneath really dystopian) society with a writing style that is all tell and little show you get Here (On the Otherside).
It's more like reading my crazy aunt's fanfiction of a show I've never seen (American Idiot). With an "evil" General and alternate universe government of Otherside Evan and Otherside Reece's world - they came off like huge cliches of what someone thinks a sci-fi story's villains should be. At least my aunt wouldn't have thrown in a heroine who is TSTL and spends half the book refusing to leave an area when she is so obviously in extreme danger because she won't leave her boyfriend. Even though said boyfriend would have been a hell of a lot safer if she weren't present.
Julia started out as a depressed ( hey I would be depressed too if my BFF died MVA that cops say was my fault and I'm having dreams where I'm the one who really died not BFF ), but somewhat likable main character that in the course of the book morphs into a cranky and stubborn heroine that rushes in without thinking and ...
cue the love triangle between two boys in love with a girl who died and the girl's counterpart in an alternate universe... who's apparently in love with the two boys - both of whom she's known only a handful of days. Are you still with me so far?
I found Evan to be very obsessive, possessive, and creepy. He basically risks his life, the life of his friend,and maybe his whole world for the girl. Yeah yeah he's loved her his whole live and so what if the dead Julia's memories seem to have somewhat merged with live Julia, Evan's actions are still achingly stupid, immature and selfish plus live Julia barely knows Evan or Reece in either universe.
At the half-way mark, the story finally picked up. But then, it went way too fast. Leaving little room for actual plot development. Ever get to the end of a book and think, "Well what was the point of all that?" The last 4 chapters or so are when the big mystery is revealed ... Wait there was a mystery? I only kept reading just to know what finally happens. They go through all these plans only to end up doing the opposite of what they intended. Good concept, but then the author leaves the story right in the middle so that you have to buy another book. Sloppy series building really.
Probably won't read anymore in this series but may give author another chance.
I almost really liked this book...almost...the end killed it for me.
The author started with an interesting premise, but overall it didn't work for me. It was not a bad book, it was just not the book for me. Maybe I was expecting it to be aimed towards more mature reading level audience but it seems to have been written for pre-teens. Incredibly corny and predictable, chock full of cliches, both in plot and characters.
High school drama (check), jealous girlfriend who also happens to be a cheerleader (check), love triangle (check). Add in Sci-Fi lab setting and utopian (but underneath really dystopian) society with a writing style that is all tell and little show you get Here (On the Otherside).
It's more like reading my crazy aunt's fanfiction of a show I've never seen (American Idiot). With an "evil" General and alternate universe government of Otherside Evan and Otherside Reece's world - they came off like huge cliches of what someone thinks a sci-fi story's villains should be. At least my aunt wouldn't have thrown in a heroine who is TSTL and spends half the book refusing to leave an area when she is so obviously in extreme danger because she won't leave her boyfriend. Even though said boyfriend would have been a hell of a lot safer if she weren't present.
Julia started out as a depressed ( hey I would be depressed too if my BFF died MVA that cops say was my fault and I'm having dreams where I'm the one who really died not BFF ), but somewhat likable main character that in the course of the book morphs into a cranky and stubborn heroine that rushes in without thinking and ...
cue the love triangle between two boys in love with a girl who died and the girl's counterpart in an alternate universe... who's apparently in love with the two boys - both of whom she's known only a handful of days. Are you still with me so far?
I found Evan to be very obsessive, possessive, and creepy. He basically risks his life, the life of his friend,and maybe his whole world for the girl. Yeah yeah he's loved her his whole live and so what if the dead Julia's memories seem to have somewhat merged with live Julia, Evan's actions are still achingly stupid, immature and selfish plus live Julia barely knows Evan or Reece in either universe.
At the half-way mark, the story finally picked up. But then, it went way too fast. Leaving little room for actual plot development. Ever get to the end of a book and think, "Well what was the point of all that?" The last 4 chapters or so are when the big mystery is revealed ... Wait there was a mystery? I only kept reading just to know what finally happens. They go through all these plans only to end up doing the opposite of what they intended. Good concept, but then the author leaves the story right in the middle so that you have to buy another book. Sloppy series building really.
Probably won't read anymore in this series but may give author another chance.
April 23, 2012
This book was so surprising! I don't want to spoil anything, but it has a sci fi element I never expected but loved!
I wasn't expecting much from Here, which gave me the first impression of (another) paranormal romance, although it did sound like one that would be slightly different. But let me clarify this right here- it's not. Here is totally different from both what I expected, and even from most other books I've read in regards to its blending of genres.
Reasons to Read
1.Plot twists & genre blending:
About halfway through this book EVERYTHING changes and you realize that this book actually has some science fiction aspects to it as well - probably moreso than the paranormal vibe it gives off at first. This completely caught me off guard, and turned the story right around for me, making it an exciting, action-packed read that was hard to put down.
2.Very interesting characters:
I enjoyed watching the various characters shift and change as we learn more about them, and I loved that they were all very different characters with their own issues and flaws, making them seem believable and realistic. There's plenty of development that takes place and we really get to see the characters grow in some ways, and I think there's room for even more in the sequel. The way that Julia deals with her grief is understandble, and it's actually heartbreaking to watch things fall apart around her as she just doesn't know how to deal with it. There's something so raw about it, and makes her a great main character for the story.
3. A great premise:
A girl who's guilt-ridden by her best friend's death? Sure, that sounds great enough as it is! Especially when you throw in that the most popular guy in school is now obsessed with her, and pretty darn creepy about in some ways. Which I'm thankful that Julia recognizes instead of being totally oblivious and lovesick about it. And then there's that whole plot twist that yanks the rug out from under your feet that I mentioned above, and it just gets even better from there on out. Seriously. Science fiction. I can't say that enough!
Here is one of the most surprising reads I've read this year, and probably ever. It was so different from what I was expecting, and even the synopsis is misleading (although, I think that's intentional so you don't expect the twists). It's great for those who are looking for something different to read, a book where not everything is quite what it seems...
Review copy received from author for book tour.
I wasn't expecting much from Here, which gave me the first impression of (another) paranormal romance, although it did sound like one that would be slightly different. But let me clarify this right here- it's not. Here is totally different from both what I expected, and even from most other books I've read in regards to its blending of genres.
Reasons to Read
1.Plot twists & genre blending:
About halfway through this book EVERYTHING changes and you realize that this book actually has some science fiction aspects to it as well - probably moreso than the paranormal vibe it gives off at first. This completely caught me off guard, and turned the story right around for me, making it an exciting, action-packed read that was hard to put down.
2.Very interesting characters:
I enjoyed watching the various characters shift and change as we learn more about them, and I loved that they were all very different characters with their own issues and flaws, making them seem believable and realistic. There's plenty of development that takes place and we really get to see the characters grow in some ways, and I think there's room for even more in the sequel. The way that Julia deals with her grief is understandble, and it's actually heartbreaking to watch things fall apart around her as she just doesn't know how to deal with it. There's something so raw about it, and makes her a great main character for the story.
3. A great premise:
A girl who's guilt-ridden by her best friend's death? Sure, that sounds great enough as it is! Especially when you throw in that the most popular guy in school is now obsessed with her, and pretty darn creepy about in some ways. Which I'm thankful that Julia recognizes instead of being totally oblivious and lovesick about it. And then there's that whole plot twist that yanks the rug out from under your feet that I mentioned above, and it just gets even better from there on out. Seriously. Science fiction. I can't say that enough!
Here is one of the most surprising reads I've read this year, and probably ever. It was so different from what I was expecting, and even the synopsis is misleading (although, I think that's intentional so you don't expect the twists). It's great for those who are looking for something different to read, a book where not everything is quite what it seems...
Review copy received from author for book tour.
Read
March 9, 2012I got all set to talk about the coolest, most awesome thing I loved most about this book, and then last minute I read the summary as I was pasting it from Goodreads, and CRUD. It's not even mentioned. Which means if I talk about it, I will be spoiling it for everybody. Dang it dang it dang it.
Okay, so, fresh approach, avoiding the coolest thing which answers "never guessing where he's really from."
So, obviously, HERE is a mystery. Eh hem. It's also a romance, but it's special in a certain regard, which I can't talk about because that's also not mentioned, and that would be giving away something quite major. Hm...
The amazing thing is, even with so much of the story being a complete surprise (and those surprises being some of most memorable aspects of the book), the summary itself is really compelling even without those spoilers. That should give you an idea of what to expect from HERE.
(I totally just talked in circles--but bear with me.)
So let's focus on non-spoiler things. Like Julia. She's emotional, a little lost, suffering from intense survivor's guilt. The amazing thing is that Julia still manages to come across as a three dimensional character with a well rounded personality; she's not just 'the depressed character." She's got issues outside of the death of her friend Monica. Like her parents. And school. Lack of self confidence. And eerie occurrences (this is where the story elevates to a higher, more intense level). It's got a bit of a science fiction flare, but very accessible, with teen drama that makes the fantasy of it still feel really relatable. Swank captures well that angst that seems to drive teenage existence without overwhelming the reader with it.
It's easy to get carried away with HERE, to just rush through the pages. It's filled with tension that drives you forward, propelling you headfirst into the fantasy element without you even realizing it's happening. It's quite a genre buster--a story that feels like a YA romantic mystery, but it pulls elements from history, sort of...bending them...while throwing in some SF/F that ultimately shapes the mystery into a thriller.
I really like genre busters, so this is awesome.
HERE is cool and different from so much of the YA that is out there now, though I predict we'll see more books like this in the next year or two. Unfortunately, I cannot tell you how it's different without ruining it for you. Just trust me on this.
Okay, so, fresh approach, avoiding the coolest thing which answers "never guessing where he's really from."
So, obviously, HERE is a mystery. Eh hem. It's also a romance, but it's special in a certain regard, which I can't talk about because that's also not mentioned, and that would be giving away something quite major. Hm...
The amazing thing is, even with so much of the story being a complete surprise (and those surprises being some of most memorable aspects of the book), the summary itself is really compelling even without those spoilers. That should give you an idea of what to expect from HERE.
(I totally just talked in circles--but bear with me.)
So let's focus on non-spoiler things. Like Julia. She's emotional, a little lost, suffering from intense survivor's guilt. The amazing thing is that Julia still manages to come across as a three dimensional character with a well rounded personality; she's not just 'the depressed character." She's got issues outside of the death of her friend Monica. Like her parents. And school. Lack of self confidence. And eerie occurrences (this is where the story elevates to a higher, more intense level). It's got a bit of a science fiction flare, but very accessible, with teen drama that makes the fantasy of it still feel really relatable. Swank captures well that angst that seems to drive teenage existence without overwhelming the reader with it.
It's easy to get carried away with HERE, to just rush through the pages. It's filled with tension that drives you forward, propelling you headfirst into the fantasy element without you even realizing it's happening. It's quite a genre buster--a story that feels like a YA romantic mystery, but it pulls elements from history, sort of...bending them...while throwing in some SF/F that ultimately shapes the mystery into a thriller.
I really like genre busters, so this is awesome.
HERE is cool and different from so much of the YA that is out there now, though I predict we'll see more books like this in the next year or two. Unfortunately, I cannot tell you how it's different without ruining it for you. Just trust me on this.
August 31, 2012
Ever since Julia survived the car crash that killed her best friend Monica, 16-year-old Julia has not been the same. She blames herself for the accident and can't get past the guilt. She has shut herself off from her family and friends and her school work is suffering to the point that they are threatening to send her to "alternative" school. In addition to the above, strange things have happened to her since the accident, for instance, a bracelet she doesn't recall ever seeing before suddenly appears on her wrist; strange dreams where sweet and cheerful Monica hates her; artistic ability she never had before; and, most interestingly, the school's football jock Evan, who never paid her the slightest bit of attention before, has taken interest in her seemingly out of nowhere. What does it all mean and will Julia's life ever be like it was before the accident?
I read this book because it was a free Kindle download and I had thoroughly enjoyed Swanks "28 and a half wishes." I am so glad I took a break from my usual "chick lit" obsession to read "Here" because it had my rapt attention from page one. Even when I wasn't reading it, I found myself thinking about the characters and the world the author created and I wanted to know what would happen next. I still want to know what happens next and I am so upset the sequel is not coming out until December! Most impressive to me was actually the love triangle. A successful love triangle, in my opinion, is when I can't really decide who I want the heroine to choose and in this book, both of Julia's love interests are worthy. While parts of the book were pretty far-fetched, I cannot deny being completely drawn in. To say that this book fully engaged me would be an understatement. Very much looking forward to There.
I read this book because it was a free Kindle download and I had thoroughly enjoyed Swanks "28 and a half wishes." I am so glad I took a break from my usual "chick lit" obsession to read "Here" because it had my rapt attention from page one. Even when I wasn't reading it, I found myself thinking about the characters and the world the author created and I wanted to know what would happen next. I still want to know what happens next and I am so upset the sequel is not coming out until December! Most impressive to me was actually the love triangle. A successful love triangle, in my opinion, is when I can't really decide who I want the heroine to choose and in this book, both of Julia's love interests are worthy. While parts of the book were pretty far-fetched, I cannot deny being completely drawn in. To say that this book fully engaged me would be an understatement. Very much looking forward to There.
March 8, 2012
HERE was an interesting read. I wasn't sure where it was going in the beginning but by about 1/2 way through it makes sense. Julia and her best friend Monica were in a car accident and Julia is the only one who survived. She is racked with survivors guilt and has given up on everyone and everything in her life. When Evan starts paying attention to her she has no idea what to think and has no idea why she suddenly feels connected to him.
Julia was extremely depressed and depressing to watch for a good chunk of the book but she did come out of that and started to become interested in life again. She was a likable character and I had no troubles connecting to her and her feelings. Evan was extremely mysterious. For half of the book you are in total darkness to what is going on but once it hits the halfway point things start to be revealed at a nice pace. The love triangle was a bit weird but I think book 2 will give us a better play out of that.
I cant say some of the things I want to without spoiling the main reveal in the storyline but I felt the first half was well paced and explained in a nice paced fashion. The second half felt rushed and didnt feel as well developed.
Overall the idea behind HERE kept me interested as the story progressed but the ending fell short for me. HERE really ended up being one of those books that is interesting enough that you have to know what the outcome of things are and you don't really get that at the end so you want to read the next book so you have a bit of closure. I'm not sure that I would go out of my way to get the information from book 2 but if I get a chance to review it I will probably do that.
Julia was extremely depressed and depressing to watch for a good chunk of the book but she did come out of that and started to become interested in life again. She was a likable character and I had no troubles connecting to her and her feelings. Evan was extremely mysterious. For half of the book you are in total darkness to what is going on but once it hits the halfway point things start to be revealed at a nice pace. The love triangle was a bit weird but I think book 2 will give us a better play out of that.
I cant say some of the things I want to without spoiling the main reveal in the storyline but I felt the first half was well paced and explained in a nice paced fashion. The second half felt rushed and didnt feel as well developed.
Overall the idea behind HERE kept me interested as the story progressed but the ending fell short for me. HERE really ended up being one of those books that is interesting enough that you have to know what the outcome of things are and you don't really get that at the end so you want to read the next book so you have a bit of closure. I'm not sure that I would go out of my way to get the information from book 2 but if I get a chance to review it I will probably do that.
June 2, 2013
I liked how the book started out. As another user stated, the setting of the stage, the introduction to the main character and her world was done pretty well. One could only understand how it feels to have lost a really close friend, especially when you feel like their death was caused by you. So I actually liked the character, and there was enough mystery and confusion that made me really want to know what's going on.
THEN... I got to the real plot of the story. Now, I love the sci-fi concept of alternate universes and the consequences when the natural balance of things are breached. What I did not appreciate though was the change in Julia (main). She went from a sturdy character who, even though she was going through something really tough, still aimed to care for those she loved, then turned to a selfish, needy girl who got carried away in a love triangle that didn't even belong to her. At some point, even though other people's safety were on the line, she refused to budge because of a "love" she wasn't even sure existed within her. I got so confused at some points as to why she was making certain decisions that I even yelled at my kindle in frustration.
I get that it's a young adult's book, but we should stop portraying them as little selfish idiots when they're fully capable of making decisions that were actually wise. It reminded me too much of Bella Swan's character in "Twilight". Like I said, the character started out strong, but then it all dwindled as the story went on.
2 stars for a very interesting concept, and a great start to the book. But I'm sorry, if I begin to hate the main character, the book has lost me.
THEN... I got to the real plot of the story. Now, I love the sci-fi concept of alternate universes and the consequences when the natural balance of things are breached. What I did not appreciate though was the change in Julia (main). She went from a sturdy character who, even though she was going through something really tough, still aimed to care for those she loved, then turned to a selfish, needy girl who got carried away in a love triangle that didn't even belong to her. At some point, even though other people's safety were on the line, she refused to budge because of a "love" she wasn't even sure existed within her. I got so confused at some points as to why she was making certain decisions that I even yelled at my kindle in frustration.
I get that it's a young adult's book, but we should stop portraying them as little selfish idiots when they're fully capable of making decisions that were actually wise. It reminded me too much of Bella Swan's character in "Twilight". Like I said, the character started out strong, but then it all dwindled as the story went on.
2 stars for a very interesting concept, and a great start to the book. But I'm sorry, if I begin to hate the main character, the book has lost me.
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