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Vestige Series
Vestige
Book 1 in the Vestige Series
The Rapture has begun, and seventeen-year-old Micah has been left behind. His mother tried to prepare him for the Apocalypse, but she disappeared without telling him about the family legacy, his legacy. And as civilization slips into chaos and the line between dreams and reality blurs, Micah must uncover his mother’s secret before the souls of humanity are lost forever.
The Vestige Series is a two-book Horror/Apocalyptic series.
The Rapture has begun, and seventeen-year-old Micah has been left behind. His mother tried to prepare him for the Apocalypse, but she disappeared without telling him about the family legacy, his legacy. And as civilization slips into chaos and the line between dreams and reality blurs, Micah must uncover his mother’s secret before the souls of humanity are lost forever.
The Vestige Series is a two-book Horror/Apocalyptic series.
260 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2012
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December 15, 2011Oooh this blurb gives me chills! I love it!
July 31, 2012
Wow! I seriously fell hard for the synopsis of the book, didn't you. I really had high hopes for this book.
The book was fast paced with danger and suspense. And like Eden's Root by Rachel Fisher, it was so shockingly possible for us. It was scary how familiar many of the things in the book were in real life. Everything seemed possible, a true rapture story. The plot was just attention grabbing. There were tension and suspense throughout the book. But I do have to say, and kind of contradict myself by saying, the story can be predictable if I think about it.
As some of you might know I am not religious and am not very "educated" in religion. The book mentions the bible and at times I didn't make any connection but it was interesting for me to understand the connection.
Before I go into talking about the characters, I have to say, I love male main characters and guess what? Vestige has a main male character. Woot! Micah was such a great character. He acted like a true teenager and didn't sound like the author had to fake his personality. He was also very real and relatable. By having this book written in different POVs, I got to see many of the characters' back stories. Some of the back stories I felt they were lacking with certain details but that wasn't a big deal (perhaps we will learn more detail in the sequel?). But one con about the muti POVs was that it reminded me of you know the TV show Heroes. It got I don't know, too much at times.
Oh yeah! The book had a cliffhanger! (Torture!)
Overall this was a great book, can't wait for the second book.
The book was fast paced with danger and suspense. And like Eden's Root by Rachel Fisher, it was so shockingly possible for us. It was scary how familiar many of the things in the book were in real life. Everything seemed possible, a true rapture story. The plot was just attention grabbing. There were tension and suspense throughout the book. But I do have to say, and kind of contradict myself by saying, the story can be predictable if I think about it.
As some of you might know I am not religious and am not very "educated" in religion. The book mentions the bible and at times I didn't make any connection but it was interesting for me to understand the connection.
Before I go into talking about the characters, I have to say, I love male main characters and guess what? Vestige has a main male character. Woot! Micah was such a great character. He acted like a true teenager and didn't sound like the author had to fake his personality. He was also very real and relatable. By having this book written in different POVs, I got to see many of the characters' back stories. Some of the back stories I felt they were lacking with certain details but that wasn't a big deal (perhaps we will learn more detail in the sequel?). But one con about the muti POVs was that it reminded me of you know the TV show Heroes. It got I don't know, too much at times.
Oh yeah! The book had a cliffhanger! (Torture!)
Overall this was a great book, can't wait for the second book.
August 3, 2012
Don't want to finish this book..
I was reading chapter 2 and something just made me sick.. A girl looking after her dad, praying in the morning that today her life would change,etc.. and after a whole rambling about how her father vomits on her, how she has to lift him out of bed, how the whole house smells of Urine and bleach. How she's covered in vomit and feces from her Dad because he has MS. It just makes me SICK!! I have MS and I can assure everyone that we do not vomit all over the place, that there isn't urine everywhere, that we do not need to weir daipers and that parents who have MS do not need there underage children take care of them and clean them and wash them etc..
Her sick father goes missing and all she can think about is how she's free at last..
I could just hit myself on the head because I paid money for this book! It goes strait into the trash..
I was reading chapter 2 and something just made me sick.. A girl looking after her dad, praying in the morning that today her life would change,etc.. and after a whole rambling about how her father vomits on her, how she has to lift him out of bed, how the whole house smells of Urine and bleach. How she's covered in vomit and feces from her Dad because he has MS. It just makes me SICK!! I have MS and I can assure everyone that we do not vomit all over the place, that there isn't urine everywhere, that we do not need to weir daipers and that parents who have MS do not need there underage children take care of them and clean them and wash them etc..
Her sick father goes missing and all she can think about is how she's free at last..
I could just hit myself on the head because I paid money for this book! It goes strait into the trash..
August 9, 2012
Have you ever think that more than half of the world population could disappear? No? Then think again.
After their families flied to the winds, and no one knows anything, no one could do anything, local authorities being left without any power to proceed; Micah and Clarke make their way in each other’s life. “Do you want to be alone together?” Clarke said. Micah is the only one who could protect her, the only one that could protect all of them… The problem is… does he knows what he has to do? His mother is missing and of what can be seen won’t come back. The hole left by her can’t be replaced, her information was crucial. What will he do? Is Micah prepared to confront what is about to come? To accept his destiny?
The missing person isn’t the only interest point for the suburb’s inhabitants LaGrange. Mister Secretary, Daniel Grimshaw, with his wife, came in the small suburb. What is doing a man like him in a place like LaGrange? Old roots. Daniel is everywhere. He looks at you. He follows you. He is in your dreams. He marks you. Bum! You are his. He wants control. He feels the power. Of him you have to fear. Or not?
Jon tried to warn them. Jon made what he could to prevent them. No one listen to Jon. Ignored by each one of them, the only way to warn was bob, his precious dog.
Vestige is the book that brings the truth that hits you. Another reality, another story, but the same future. The book presents the destiny of a teenager, Micah, seventeen years old boy who has to confront something bigger, stronger than him. Is him against the world. Now the question is “Who will stay next to him?”
Deb Hanrahan, the book author, brings a different story, a mixture of adventure, thriller and suspense. While you are reading you feel the adrenalin flowing through your veins. You feel the pulse of the action. You are there. Living with the characters. Crying with them. Dying with them. Defying him. You could read it again and again, you will not get bored.
Of all characters I could choose a favorite, Micah, but that does not mean the rest of the characters are not as valuable. I was surprised to notice that in the end I felt sorry for Amber, one of the girls that used to be part of Micah’s band, and somehow gratitude. It is a strange feeling to notice that even the smallest character, in the end, is a part of you.
You can choose in who’s side do you want to be, but you can do nothing the avoid the imminent… you fall under villains spell too. It is true that I did not bear with Daniel, but he has something that makes you wait breathless a new scene with him.
Vestige is the first book in a series of two, which heralds the beginning, the book that sets the tone.
Note: 10 +
Original title: Vestige
Author: Deb Hanrahan
Publishing: Philyra Publishing
Review: Ştefana Alexandra
After their families flied to the winds, and no one knows anything, no one could do anything, local authorities being left without any power to proceed; Micah and Clarke make their way in each other’s life. “Do you want to be alone together?” Clarke said. Micah is the only one who could protect her, the only one that could protect all of them… The problem is… does he knows what he has to do? His mother is missing and of what can be seen won’t come back. The hole left by her can’t be replaced, her information was crucial. What will he do? Is Micah prepared to confront what is about to come? To accept his destiny?
The missing person isn’t the only interest point for the suburb’s inhabitants LaGrange. Mister Secretary, Daniel Grimshaw, with his wife, came in the small suburb. What is doing a man like him in a place like LaGrange? Old roots. Daniel is everywhere. He looks at you. He follows you. He is in your dreams. He marks you. Bum! You are his. He wants control. He feels the power. Of him you have to fear. Or not?
Jon tried to warn them. Jon made what he could to prevent them. No one listen to Jon. Ignored by each one of them, the only way to warn was bob, his precious dog.
Vestige is the book that brings the truth that hits you. Another reality, another story, but the same future. The book presents the destiny of a teenager, Micah, seventeen years old boy who has to confront something bigger, stronger than him. Is him against the world. Now the question is “Who will stay next to him?”
Deb Hanrahan, the book author, brings a different story, a mixture of adventure, thriller and suspense. While you are reading you feel the adrenalin flowing through your veins. You feel the pulse of the action. You are there. Living with the characters. Crying with them. Dying with them. Defying him. You could read it again and again, you will not get bored.
Of all characters I could choose a favorite, Micah, but that does not mean the rest of the characters are not as valuable. I was surprised to notice that in the end I felt sorry for Amber, one of the girls that used to be part of Micah’s band, and somehow gratitude. It is a strange feeling to notice that even the smallest character, in the end, is a part of you.
You can choose in who’s side do you want to be, but you can do nothing the avoid the imminent… you fall under villains spell too. It is true that I did not bear with Daniel, but he has something that makes you wait breathless a new scene with him.
Vestige is the first book in a series of two, which heralds the beginning, the book that sets the tone.
Note: 10 +
Original title: Vestige
Author: Deb Hanrahan
Publishing: Philyra Publishing
Review: Ştefana Alexandra
August 6, 2012
I've said, many times, that dystopian is becoming my favourite genre. It's something new in book world, same as paranormal was few years ago. I was so happy when I heard that Deb was writing a dystopian novel.
When it came to me, I've read it in like few hours. It's not long but it's so interesting.
It's hard to write a review for this book just because I wish you didn't read anything about it before you started reading this book. You should discover it all by yourselves. That's why I'll only post you new summary that is on GoodReads, but if you're adventures and willing to take risk then you won't read that summary and you'll pick the book.
This summary contains some spoilers and if you're not fan of them and you're planing on reading this book you'll not read it, please. Here it is:
In the Midwestern suburb of LaGrange, something is amiss. Over a twenty-four-hour period, all the children under the age of thirteen along with many adults have disappeared without explanation. It doesn’t take long for those left behind to learn that this tragedy is part of a global event. As people panic, civilization begins to crumble. Luckily, the Secretary of Homeland Security, Daniel Grimshaw, has a plan to restore order. But first, every remaining person must be accounted for and tagged with a mark on their right hand.
Unaware of his responsibilities, seventeen-year-old Micah has been preparing for this day. His mother trained him and provided him with the proper tools, but she neglected to tell Micah about the family legacy, his legacy. Now that his mother is among the missing, will Micah ever discover who he is, or what he needs to do to save what’s left of humanity from the hellfire of perdition?
Let me tell you once more, this book is different, mostly because in other dystopian books "the end of the world" already happened and you have the picture after the destroying. Here is different, everything happens in front your own eyes, and still you don't know what it is. I also like main characters here, they're so sweet. All in all this book is really great and I enjoyed so much.
When it came to me, I've read it in like few hours. It's not long but it's so interesting.
It's hard to write a review for this book just because I wish you didn't read anything about it before you started reading this book. You should discover it all by yourselves. That's why I'll only post you new summary that is on GoodReads, but if you're adventures and willing to take risk then you won't read that summary and you'll pick the book.
This summary contains some spoilers and if you're not fan of them and you're planing on reading this book you'll not read it, please. Here it is:
In the Midwestern suburb of LaGrange, something is amiss. Over a twenty-four-hour period, all the children under the age of thirteen along with many adults have disappeared without explanation. It doesn’t take long for those left behind to learn that this tragedy is part of a global event. As people panic, civilization begins to crumble. Luckily, the Secretary of Homeland Security, Daniel Grimshaw, has a plan to restore order. But first, every remaining person must be accounted for and tagged with a mark on their right hand.
Unaware of his responsibilities, seventeen-year-old Micah has been preparing for this day. His mother trained him and provided him with the proper tools, but she neglected to tell Micah about the family legacy, his legacy. Now that his mother is among the missing, will Micah ever discover who he is, or what he needs to do to save what’s left of humanity from the hellfire of perdition?
Let me tell you once more, this book is different, mostly because in other dystopian books "the end of the world" already happened and you have the picture after the destroying. Here is different, everything happens in front your own eyes, and still you don't know what it is. I also like main characters here, they're so sweet. All in all this book is really great and I enjoyed so much.
August 9, 2012
I really enjoyed this and cannot wait until the next book comes out! Love Clarke and Micah!.
August 11, 2012
OMG , I'm so in love with this book! I enjoyed every page , every minute spent reading ''Vestige''. The story is original , I have never read one like this before. Deb is a genius!
Now , coming back at my review :
In a world where adults , children and animals are missing , Micah must defeat the beast: Mrs. Daniel Grimshaw. He is the only one who can save the people. He is lucky because he counts on Clarke's help and she is always there for him. I didn't like the fact that Micah didn't tell Clarke about his dreams with Mrs. Grimshaw. He should have trusted her , because she is the only person left for him , besides Father Thomas.
Clarke is my favourite character . She is sad because of her father's disappearance , then she finds Micah . She's a good girl and she really loves him. The relationship between them was so true , they really had a special connection.
I also liked the fact that they didn't get tagged. They were so clever when they made their own fake tags .
Jon , the homeless guy, was a very important character. I liked the fact that he could see auras.At first , I thought he was just another strange guy who hears voices , but I found out that he had an important role in this story.
From my point of view , another important and interesting character was Bob , the dog. I never read about a dog which can see auras , too.
Page after page , I discovered why Mrs. Daniel appeared in their dreams and what was his role in their lives. After I discovered the truth , I was a little bit shocked , but I never wanted another ending.
Micah's friends really annoyed me , especially Jess. That girl is such a pest. I'm glad that Clarke hit her when she tried to kiss Micah. Of course , after that moment, I was sad because Clarke left .
Amber was the only one who made me change my opinion. At the beginnig I didn't like her, but in the final chapter she showed me that she can be a good friend.
The end of the book was so sad , I'm sad because I think the book was too short. I love ''Vestige'' and I can't wait for the second book. Deb created a world where adrenaline mixes with fear , suspense and sadness. I finished this book in three days and I figured out that now , it is my favourite book.
''Vestige'' was like a breath of fresh air from books with werewolves , vampires and fairies.
Now , coming back at my review :
In a world where adults , children and animals are missing , Micah must defeat the beast: Mrs. Daniel Grimshaw. He is the only one who can save the people. He is lucky because he counts on Clarke's help and she is always there for him. I didn't like the fact that Micah didn't tell Clarke about his dreams with Mrs. Grimshaw. He should have trusted her , because she is the only person left for him , besides Father Thomas.
Clarke is my favourite character . She is sad because of her father's disappearance , then she finds Micah . She's a good girl and she really loves him. The relationship between them was so true , they really had a special connection.
I also liked the fact that they didn't get tagged. They were so clever when they made their own fake tags .
Jon , the homeless guy, was a very important character. I liked the fact that he could see auras.At first , I thought he was just another strange guy who hears voices , but I found out that he had an important role in this story.
From my point of view , another important and interesting character was Bob , the dog. I never read about a dog which can see auras , too.
Page after page , I discovered why Mrs. Daniel appeared in their dreams and what was his role in their lives. After I discovered the truth , I was a little bit shocked , but I never wanted another ending.
Micah's friends really annoyed me , especially Jess. That girl is such a pest. I'm glad that Clarke hit her when she tried to kiss Micah. Of course , after that moment, I was sad because Clarke left .
Amber was the only one who made me change my opinion. At the beginnig I didn't like her, but in the final chapter she showed me that she can be a good friend.
The end of the book was so sad , I'm sad because I think the book was too short. I love ''Vestige'' and I can't wait for the second book. Deb created a world where adrenaline mixes with fear , suspense and sadness. I finished this book in three days and I figured out that now , it is my favourite book.
''Vestige'' was like a breath of fresh air from books with werewolves , vampires and fairies.
July 16, 2012
Okay, I figured this would be some type of dystopian novel because of the description, but I guess I was wrong. I don't know if I missed something with this book, but I just couldn't get into it. There were multiple problems I had with this book.
First, there was the little problem of set up. When you have a 150 page book, I'm sorry, but 130 pages of it cannot be set up. The "action" in this book occurs in the last little bit of the book, and even that wasn't that great. Second, I couldn't stand the changing perspectives. It would be one thing if each chapter was written from a different perspective, but to do it after almost each paragraph? This is excessive, and unnecessary. Additionally, the problem was that there were so many different POV's that you had no clue who were reading. It took me almost the entire paragraph to figure it out, but by that time, it was too late because we were already on to another person. This next problem ties in with the set up part I guess, but my third problem was the fact that the priest (who's name I can't even recall because this book wasn't really that memorable) just up and believed the homeless man, Joe or Jon, but then kept saying, "I need to find the Savior, I need to find the Savior," but then does he ever find the Savior? Eventually, but only after thinking this thought about 5 different times througout the book! In fact, in one scene, the priest says he needs to find the boy (Michah), and then goes.to.sleep!!! If there is a matter of life or death, you do not just go to sleep, and solve the problem later the next day. You go find the solution to your problem. I also had problems with Micah's friends, but that is just a personal preference. I mean I guess you can't like all the characters. Lastly, I found this novel to be extremely predictable. I don't want to spoil anything, but just be prepared because if you are reading this book, and you think certain people are certain people, you are probably right.
Suffice to say, I will not be reading the next book. However, I think this book had a very interesting premise, but it was just not executed in the best way possible.
First, there was the little problem of set up. When you have a 150 page book, I'm sorry, but 130 pages of it cannot be set up. The "action" in this book occurs in the last little bit of the book, and even that wasn't that great. Second, I couldn't stand the changing perspectives. It would be one thing if each chapter was written from a different perspective, but to do it after almost each paragraph? This is excessive, and unnecessary. Additionally, the problem was that there were so many different POV's that you had no clue who were reading. It took me almost the entire paragraph to figure it out, but by that time, it was too late because we were already on to another person. This next problem ties in with the set up part I guess, but my third problem was the fact that the priest (who's name I can't even recall because this book wasn't really that memorable) just up and believed the homeless man, Joe or Jon, but then kept saying, "I need to find the Savior, I need to find the Savior," but then does he ever find the Savior? Eventually, but only after thinking this thought about 5 different times througout the book! In fact, in one scene, the priest says he needs to find the boy (Michah), and then goes.to.sleep!!! If there is a matter of life or death, you do not just go to sleep, and solve the problem later the next day. You go find the solution to your problem. I also had problems with Micah's friends, but that is just a personal preference. I mean I guess you can't like all the characters. Lastly, I found this novel to be extremely predictable. I don't want to spoil anything, but just be prepared because if you are reading this book, and you think certain people are certain people, you are probably right.
Suffice to say, I will not be reading the next book. However, I think this book had a very interesting premise, but it was just not executed in the best way possible.
August 3, 2012
Hey,i've just finished this book,and it was so awesome ! I've finished it in just 5 or 6 hours.The story is getting you really addicted,the way that Deb writes and the characters made me read it in such a little time.
Well,the story begins with Jon-the guy who lives on the streets along with his buddy-Bob-the dog.It seems that Jon is able to hear some voices who tell him that he must warn the people about the end of the world.He has an ability to see people's auras,and Bob has it too.
In the first few chapters we meet the other characters : Micah,Jess,Amber,Cody,Dustin and Clarke.Micah was such a great character,the way he talks and do things really made me put it on the fav list with Clarke,who is such an awesome girl,she is so different from the other girls.She is the good girl,let's sat it this way !
Ok,let's come back...after one day the things are getting crazy,in the next morning more than a half of population is missing,the kids under 13,some adults,and even the animals are starting to disappear.At school it seems that the teachers are missing to,so no more school-yay ! everything is a such a mess.Then the two main characters finally meet eachother and they decide to hang out together for a while.Then the father Thomas enters the scene,he is an important part of this book.And...then we meet Daniel Grimshaw-the guy who seems to be perfect at first sight,but he's not.Another important part of this book is the code that everyone must have on their right hand,a code that once put,you won't be able to enter in the church,or things like that,it was called -The Mark of the Beast-.Micah and Clarke are so clever and they decide not to make this stupid code on their hands.
Out there was plenty of funny moments that i enjoyed a lot,one of them was when at Starbucks the coffee was 20$ for a cup,and that moment when Clarke's neighbor was stealing tv's from other houses.I found these moments very funny :).Well i thinks this is all,i can't say anything else to you-just read it and you won't be disappointed.The book is reading so fast and you'll enjoy every part of it.Should i say how many stars ? well 5+ !
Thanks Deb for this book :)
Well,the story begins with Jon-the guy who lives on the streets along with his buddy-Bob-the dog.It seems that Jon is able to hear some voices who tell him that he must warn the people about the end of the world.He has an ability to see people's auras,and Bob has it too.
In the first few chapters we meet the other characters : Micah,Jess,Amber,Cody,Dustin and Clarke.Micah was such a great character,the way he talks and do things really made me put it on the fav list with Clarke,who is such an awesome girl,she is so different from the other girls.She is the good girl,let's sat it this way !
Ok,let's come back...after one day the things are getting crazy,in the next morning more than a half of population is missing,the kids under 13,some adults,and even the animals are starting to disappear.At school it seems that the teachers are missing to,so no more school-yay ! everything is a such a mess.Then the two main characters finally meet eachother and they decide to hang out together for a while.Then the father Thomas enters the scene,he is an important part of this book.And...then we meet Daniel Grimshaw-the guy who seems to be perfect at first sight,but he's not.Another important part of this book is the code that everyone must have on their right hand,a code that once put,you won't be able to enter in the church,or things like that,it was called -The Mark of the Beast-.Micah and Clarke are so clever and they decide not to make this stupid code on their hands.
Out there was plenty of funny moments that i enjoyed a lot,one of them was when at Starbucks the coffee was 20$ for a cup,and that moment when Clarke's neighbor was stealing tv's from other houses.I found these moments very funny :).Well i thinks this is all,i can't say anything else to you-just read it and you won't be disappointed.The book is reading so fast and you'll enjoy every part of it.Should i say how many stars ? well 5+ !
Thanks Deb for this book :)
April 7, 2024
I got through 54% of this, and I can't take it anymore.
First, this is a Biblical-style tribulation story. That's not a problem in and of itself. It's the way it's gone about. From the "golden" child being the blond, blue-eyed teenager who was in a group of misfits bullying a homeless man to dogs going to heaven but not cats, the subtext of the writer sends a message.
Second, the characters are just dumb. You're a priest who doesn't believe what you're preaching. Believable. A priest who doesn't know the Bible enough to understand why at least half of the population disappeared overnight and doesn't believe he's actually seeing the devil after he wakes up BURNING? Implausible. That's actually where I have up
But also, you're the child of a survivalist mother who texted you, "It's happening" before SHE disappeared, and nothing in you says, "Maybe I should go look at Mom's notes to see which apocalypse we're in?" Ridiculous.
Also, the speed at which the rationing of food and mark of the beast tags happens seemed rushed. It was only 2 or 3 days.
Speaking of rushed, the forced romance between Micah and Clarke was painful and full of clichéd moments. Micah saw Clarke's ANKLE and thought, "This girl needs protecting." Then, he keeps trying to hug and touch her after she's said no, but kisses her to stop her from crying. It reeks of chivalrous over-stepping that typically a guy will write, but it's coming from a woman, so it's even worse.
I've spent far too long trying to give this book a chance, and I cannot any longer.
First, this is a Biblical-style tribulation story. That's not a problem in and of itself. It's the way it's gone about. From the "golden" child being the blond, blue-eyed teenager who was in a group of misfits bullying a homeless man to dogs going to heaven but not cats, the subtext of the writer sends a message.
Second, the characters are just dumb. You're a priest who doesn't believe what you're preaching. Believable. A priest who doesn't know the Bible enough to understand why at least half of the population disappeared overnight and doesn't believe he's actually seeing the devil after he wakes up BURNING? Implausible. That's actually where I have up
But also, you're the child of a survivalist mother who texted you, "It's happening" before SHE disappeared, and nothing in you says, "Maybe I should go look at Mom's notes to see which apocalypse we're in?" Ridiculous.
Also, the speed at which the rationing of food and mark of the beast tags happens seemed rushed. It was only 2 or 3 days.
Speaking of rushed, the forced romance between Micah and Clarke was painful and full of clichéd moments. Micah saw Clarke's ANKLE and thought, "This girl needs protecting." Then, he keeps trying to hug and touch her after she's said no, but kisses her to stop her from crying. It reeks of chivalrous over-stepping that typically a guy will write, but it's coming from a woman, so it's even worse.
I've spent far too long trying to give this book a chance, and I cannot any longer.
September 23, 2023
Genuinely rough. The writing is very obviously juvenile and inexperienced. The characters are all kinda annoying. The plot is interesting, but the second I realized that the bar code tags were the Mark of the Beast...I had little faith. Hobby Lobby CEO conspiracy cropping up in a book isn't a good look, even if its not intentional. Also, as others have noted, almost all of the first book is set-up. The second book, which I'm working through right now, isn't long enough or distinct enough to have deserved to be split from the first. Should've just been one book.
I read this at work off and on when I needed a bit of a mental reset. Entertaining enough for that purpose, but just not that good.
I read this at work off and on when I needed a bit of a mental reset. Entertaining enough for that purpose, but just not that good.
September 13, 2017
Pretty good take on the biblical end times.
Well written, good character development, and keeps your attention. Looking forward to the rest of the story! Would recommend biggly! Lol!
Well written, good character development, and keeps your attention. Looking forward to the rest of the story! Would recommend biggly! Lol!
September 3, 2012
I won this book in a give-away, and I was really excited to read it. The description on the back of the book seemed eerie and interesting. But I had quite a few issues with this book, which I'll talk about below.
1.) The characters were undeveloped. I get that the book picks up in the middle of the story when all the kids and adults have disappeared. But we just don't know anything about the characters who are gone, which as a reader, doesn't make my feel sympathetic toward the kids whose families are missing or to those who have disappeared. Micah and his friends are all stereotypical teenagers - nothing new there. The only character who seems like she might have some hope of being believable is Clarke. But other than the fact that her dad has MS and her mom left for Mr. Grimshaw, who is, in my opinion, the most unbelievable character of them all, she doesn't have much going for her.
Mr. Grimshaw - is he a child molester, a psycopath or just the devil? The book can't really decide, and neither can I. Other than the fact that the guy smells like sandalwood, all we know is that he shows up in other people's dreams. If I were the editor of this book, here's what I'd say. Start the story at the beginning - give readers an idea of how the characters were before the "end of days." Because without knowing these things, I couldn't relate to the characters at all. I could only cringe every time they opened their mouths. Since this book is "to be continued," maybe that would be a good place to start the story line for book two - flashbacks.
2.) The plot was unbelievable. Here's an example: Micah falls in love with Clarke the same day he actually starts talking to her and knows he'll do anything to protect her. If this were a Hollywood movie, maybe I'd believe that. But everything about their relationship struck me as fake. Also, did we ever figure out where all the sick people went? I don't remember ever finding out, but maybe I just read through too carelessly after I started losing interest.
3.) Is this book about the apocalypse or the rapture? This is maybe one of the biggest issues I had with the book. Micah has been taught all his life to prepare for the apocalypse. His mom, though we knew nothing else about her, was a doomsday prepper. But since this book is really about the rapture, nothing Micah and his family have hiding behind that secret shower door is going to protect them. And didn't the government take the sick people away to purify the human race? My mind is just spinning after reading this book.
In summary, I just wasn't a fan. I didn't like the characters, I plot was just too over the top for me to believe, even in a fiction book and I think the author really needed to make things more clear - are the evil forces of government what these kids are fighting against or are they battling evil in an end of days scenario? It can't be both at the same time.
1.) The characters were undeveloped. I get that the book picks up in the middle of the story when all the kids and adults have disappeared. But we just don't know anything about the characters who are gone, which as a reader, doesn't make my feel sympathetic toward the kids whose families are missing or to those who have disappeared. Micah and his friends are all stereotypical teenagers - nothing new there. The only character who seems like she might have some hope of being believable is Clarke. But other than the fact that her dad has MS and her mom left for Mr. Grimshaw, who is, in my opinion, the most unbelievable character of them all, she doesn't have much going for her.
Mr. Grimshaw - is he a child molester, a psycopath or just the devil? The book can't really decide, and neither can I. Other than the fact that the guy smells like sandalwood, all we know is that he shows up in other people's dreams. If I were the editor of this book, here's what I'd say. Start the story at the beginning - give readers an idea of how the characters were before the "end of days." Because without knowing these things, I couldn't relate to the characters at all. I could only cringe every time they opened their mouths. Since this book is "to be continued," maybe that would be a good place to start the story line for book two - flashbacks.
2.) The plot was unbelievable. Here's an example: Micah falls in love with Clarke the same day he actually starts talking to her and knows he'll do anything to protect her. If this were a Hollywood movie, maybe I'd believe that. But everything about their relationship struck me as fake. Also, did we ever figure out where all the sick people went? I don't remember ever finding out, but maybe I just read through too carelessly after I started losing interest.
3.) Is this book about the apocalypse or the rapture? This is maybe one of the biggest issues I had with the book. Micah has been taught all his life to prepare for the apocalypse. His mom, though we knew nothing else about her, was a doomsday prepper. But since this book is really about the rapture, nothing Micah and his family have hiding behind that secret shower door is going to protect them. And didn't the government take the sick people away to purify the human race? My mind is just spinning after reading this book.
In summary, I just wasn't a fan. I didn't like the characters, I plot was just too over the top for me to believe, even in a fiction book and I think the author really needed to make things more clear - are the evil forces of government what these kids are fighting against or are they battling evil in an end of days scenario? It can't be both at the same time.
January 14, 2013
Vestige begins the day the world ends. Deb Hanrahan boldly adds this story to the surfeit of post-apocalyptic Christian Day of Judgment fiction narratives - successfully. It is risky working in a genre with familiar symbols, characters, and themes. A storyteller must work delicately, gently trusting her audience's existing knowledge of references, to craft something unique. The dangers of a supernatural or fantasy tale include being prey to hackneyed clichés.
Vestige is not chum for the religious horror flick genre. Vestige is clever, briskly paced, credible, and sympathetic. There are a handful of paragraphs (mostly in the first chapter) which sound a bit nervous. They seem almost self-aware and a wee bit jumpy about being looked at my readers. This adolescent awkwardness soon dissolves as the narrative picks up and the characters form. Hanrahan uses details gracefully, trusting the images described (such as a character defacing a cherished object) will evoke emotion better than narrative exposition.
Vestige's premise is straight-forward. One evening, everyone goes to bed as usual; in the morning, one-third of the population has simply vanished. Doctors, nurses, children and dogs are disproportionally absent. Panicked, the government, led by an unfamiliar Director of Homeland Security, invokes martial law. One individual alone has the ability to defeat evil and give humanity a last chance at redemption. Yet this savior, Micah, does not understand his role or responsibilities.
Part of the joy of reading Vestige is the aplomb with which Hanrahan uses a reader's expectations of a predictable storyline in unpredictable ways. There is, for example, the expected Catholic priest. However, he may or may not be one of the good guys or even one of the faithful. In fact, the definition of the "faithful" is unclear. Characters we assume would be good are not; those we expect to be bad are undecided.
Good fiction of any genre assists its readers in asking uncomfortable questions, such as "what is 'good?'" or "what is 'faith,' really?" In fiction, we can safely press against workaday truths - if the author leaves room for examination and doesn't pound us over the head with One Interpretation. Vestige leaves lots of space for questions. Carefully placed in an accessible young adult thriller, existential questions about the nature of faith or judgment or choice are hidden, if one wants to ask. Or, one can kick back and enjoy a fun story. Either way, Vestige satisfies.
Vestige is part one of a series. Part two, Scion, will be released in September 2013 by Philyra Publishing. Hanrahan's first novel is Changing My Wardrobe. All are available through amazon and other online retailers.
This review first appeared on irevuo.com, Friday Reads.
December 28, 2012
I had really high hopes for this book, and I think that may be why I was lead to such a low rating. I got to a point in this book were the only reason I kept reading on was because I was hoping that it would get better and I would get an explanation for the goose-bump inducing description. I was mostly disappointed on both fronts.
My biggest problem with this book was no believability, I think that Hanrahan could have pulled this off, but I couldn't connect to the characters. I really did try, but the dialogue and descriptions and actions didn't match up with the characters.
When we first meet Micah, he's this punk kid that skips school and doesn't care about anyone or anything, but then he meets Clarke, and all of the sudden he cares about things. The dialogue between them was unrealistic too. Its seemed like "Hi, I just met you and my family is missing, but lets hang out instead of finding out where my family is." It seemed so superficial.
I would have tolerated the the kinda bad dialogue, but then the actions of the characters seemed to go against what they were characterized as or there wasn't any descriptions of those actions at all. I understand that descriptions can be distracting at times and yes, some people may skim over them, but for me I need that because if all I can visualize is two people talking face to face, when there is supposed to be more going on, all I can see is the Sims game where people are supposed to be in relationships or hate each other and they still flip their hair.
There was one scene that Clarke was supposed to be steaming mad at her mother who had walked out on her family to mysteriously re-appear during the crisis. Her mother, aptly named Lilith, just shows up at her house where Clarke and Micah are at the time. Clarke launches into a screaming fit with this boy whom she has only just recently met stands on, and when her mom asks who he is, she stops what she's going and has a perfectly polite introduction.
I really wish that I had liked this book more. Deb Hanrahan was kind enough to send me this book in return for my review, and on top of that had the grace to email me and thank me for finishing it even though I didn't like it very much. In a time when the relationship between Bloggers and Authors can be a tense one, I can't even begin to tell you about how much I appreciated it. It may have just been me, but you should still give this book a chance and see if its right for you.
My biggest problem with this book was no believability, I think that Hanrahan could have pulled this off, but I couldn't connect to the characters. I really did try, but the dialogue and descriptions and actions didn't match up with the characters.
When we first meet Micah, he's this punk kid that skips school and doesn't care about anyone or anything, but then he meets Clarke, and all of the sudden he cares about things. The dialogue between them was unrealistic too. Its seemed like "Hi, I just met you and my family is missing, but lets hang out instead of finding out where my family is." It seemed so superficial.
I would have tolerated the the kinda bad dialogue, but then the actions of the characters seemed to go against what they were characterized as or there wasn't any descriptions of those actions at all. I understand that descriptions can be distracting at times and yes, some people may skim over them, but for me I need that because if all I can visualize is two people talking face to face, when there is supposed to be more going on, all I can see is the Sims game where people are supposed to be in relationships or hate each other and they still flip their hair.
There was one scene that Clarke was supposed to be steaming mad at her mother who had walked out on her family to mysteriously re-appear during the crisis. Her mother, aptly named Lilith, just shows up at her house where Clarke and Micah are at the time. Clarke launches into a screaming fit with this boy whom she has only just recently met stands on, and when her mom asks who he is, she stops what she's going and has a perfectly polite introduction.
I really wish that I had liked this book more. Deb Hanrahan was kind enough to send me this book in return for my review, and on top of that had the grace to email me and thank me for finishing it even though I didn't like it very much. In a time when the relationship between Bloggers and Authors can be a tense one, I can't even begin to tell you about how much I appreciated it. It may have just been me, but you should still give this book a chance and see if its right for you.
July 28, 2012
What would you do if one day your younger siblings or your parents disappeared into thin air, along with an alarming amount of other adults and children? That's what happens in Vestige, the first of two books that follows a group of teens during what appears to be the apocalypse. Micah's mother always trained him for the "End Times" and told him he was special. He always thought she was crazy. Did she know about something that other people didn't? All around the world crazy things are beginning to happen. Some are claiming it's the work of terrorists. Others believe it's the End Times mentioned in the Bible. Others don't know what to think and just try to live day to day. Now the government is tagging everyone's right hand with a mark to keep track of them. You can only get food and other privileges if you have the mark. Micah and his new girlfriend, Clarke, try to figure out what is really going on and how they can stop it - before it's too late.
Growing up going to church, I have always heard stories and sermons dealing with the "End Times." The Rapture, the Antichrist, the Mark of the Beast - all of this is familiar to me. That might be part of the reason that I was so engaged in this book. It was creepily familiar and had a tinge of possible reality to it that made it all the more engrossing for me to read. It's a great concept with a well written and fast paced narrative regardless of the reader's familiarity with the concepts. The characters are flawed and completely believable, so it's easy to identify with them early in the book. As I mentioned, the plot deals with the apolcalypse and other references from the Bible, such as the Antichrist, the Mark of the Beast, the Rapture, etc. It also threads a story of a single person who can stop the Antichrist and save the world. This person is supposedly descended from angels and is called the Guardian.
I found the entire story to be a page-turner and I was completely hooked until the end. The novel ends with a great cliffhanger, so I was left wanting more - I wanted to know what happens to the characters and how things were going to end. I couldn't put this book down until the very last page and I am definitely eagerly awaiting the next book. I highly recommend this novel to fans of YA, dystopian, apocalyptic, and thriller genres.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Growing up going to church, I have always heard stories and sermons dealing with the "End Times." The Rapture, the Antichrist, the Mark of the Beast - all of this is familiar to me. That might be part of the reason that I was so engaged in this book. It was creepily familiar and had a tinge of possible reality to it that made it all the more engrossing for me to read. It's a great concept with a well written and fast paced narrative regardless of the reader's familiarity with the concepts. The characters are flawed and completely believable, so it's easy to identify with them early in the book. As I mentioned, the plot deals with the apolcalypse and other references from the Bible, such as the Antichrist, the Mark of the Beast, the Rapture, etc. It also threads a story of a single person who can stop the Antichrist and save the world. This person is supposedly descended from angels and is called the Guardian.
I found the entire story to be a page-turner and I was completely hooked until the end. The novel ends with a great cliffhanger, so I was left wanting more - I wanted to know what happens to the characters and how things were going to end. I couldn't put this book down until the very last page and I am definitely eagerly awaiting the next book. I highly recommend this novel to fans of YA, dystopian, apocalyptic, and thriller genres.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2012
If you are like me and you find the inner voice that read along with you as your eyes followed the words of the synopsis, then you read it with that annoying emergency broadcast voice without even meaning to, even know you are thinking back to see if I am right.
Anyway, this book starts off right in the beginning, there is no monumental build up that let you get to know the characters, instead it starts off from the beginning with animal's going missing, and then family members. Personally I would be distraught if I woke up and was placed in some of the character's shoes, worried for my family and not knowing where they were.
I have heard that there was some confusion, some believing this was to be a dystopian book and it turns out to be an Apocalyptic book, and for me it didn't matter. I couldn't really remember the synopsis when I got around to reading it, so it was all fresh with no preconceived notions.
I love that the character's where flawed, it made it so much easier to relate to them as if they were a part of my every day life. So much of the struggles where actually thing's I found myself believing could come to pass in real life, it was somewhat odd, and I won't lie gave me disturbing end of the world dreams since I read it before bed.
I also noted the references to biblical references that kept it just simple enough to not sound preachy and deter other's from the book.
I think the only problem I had with the book was the length, it just felt short, and at the end a little rushed. I loved the story and the cliff hanger left me wanting to tear my hair out.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
Anyway, this book starts off right in the beginning, there is no monumental build up that let you get to know the characters, instead it starts off from the beginning with animal's going missing, and then family members. Personally I would be distraught if I woke up and was placed in some of the character's shoes, worried for my family and not knowing where they were.
I have heard that there was some confusion, some believing this was to be a dystopian book and it turns out to be an Apocalyptic book, and for me it didn't matter. I couldn't really remember the synopsis when I got around to reading it, so it was all fresh with no preconceived notions.
I love that the character's where flawed, it made it so much easier to relate to them as if they were a part of my every day life. So much of the struggles where actually thing's I found myself believing could come to pass in real life, it was somewhat odd, and I won't lie gave me disturbing end of the world dreams since I read it before bed.
I also noted the references to biblical references that kept it just simple enough to not sound preachy and deter other's from the book.
I think the only problem I had with the book was the length, it just felt short, and at the end a little rushed. I loved the story and the cliff hanger left me wanting to tear my hair out.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
August 8, 2015
Well written, but another author selling a story, when in reality it's another serial.
The story is based around the events of the Revelations from the Bible. MS Hanrahan does an interesting spin on The End of our modern world. The main characters are sadly typical teens and she does a splendid job revealing their choices, and coping abilities with their past and very different new lives. I didn't notice any glaring problems with editing so that's great. The adult characters were supportive cast and less detailed than the kids, but based on their various impact were satisfactory.
My pet peeve when I invest my time into a novel is that it have all the essential elements of a complete story... beginning, development of the story line with conflict, and then the resolution. This is an introduction to a serial drama. It does not stand alone as a complete tale. I do not object to a series that brings characters back to build another story and set of challenges to overcome. I believe that is good storytelling. However, I feel cheated and that the writer is dishonest when I do not receive full disclosure BEFORE I engage in opening to Chapter One! A foreword stating this is the initial installment of my story. I believe my tale will draw you into my characters, but you will need to continue into following "books" to find out if the heroine is saved are consumed by evil, if the hero accepts his destined role, if the hero lives up to his heritage, if there are unknown loopholes for those who fell just short of expectations, and the author's personal take on what happens at the true close. All of these topics could have been stand alone books, but based on the initial installment, this reader will never know. Too bad, I was enjoying the story until it dropped off the cliff.
The story is based around the events of the Revelations from the Bible. MS Hanrahan does an interesting spin on The End of our modern world. The main characters are sadly typical teens and she does a splendid job revealing their choices, and coping abilities with their past and very different new lives. I didn't notice any glaring problems with editing so that's great. The adult characters were supportive cast and less detailed than the kids, but based on their various impact were satisfactory.
My pet peeve when I invest my time into a novel is that it have all the essential elements of a complete story... beginning, development of the story line with conflict, and then the resolution. This is an introduction to a serial drama. It does not stand alone as a complete tale. I do not object to a series that brings characters back to build another story and set of challenges to overcome. I believe that is good storytelling. However, I feel cheated and that the writer is dishonest when I do not receive full disclosure BEFORE I engage in opening to Chapter One! A foreword stating this is the initial installment of my story. I believe my tale will draw you into my characters, but you will need to continue into following "books" to find out if the heroine is saved are consumed by evil, if the hero accepts his destined role, if the hero lives up to his heritage, if there are unknown loopholes for those who fell just short of expectations, and the author's personal take on what happens at the true close. All of these topics could have been stand alone books, but based on the initial installment, this reader will never know. Too bad, I was enjoying the story until it dropped off the cliff.
July 27, 2012
3.5 stars.
Vestige starts out right in the middle of the action, as people and animals start to go missing. Something mysterious and ominous is taking place, and our two leads Clarke and Micah are in a race against the clock to stop it… if they can. The suspense begins to build, and it doesn’t let up until the very last page!
While I had some idea about what I was getting myself into with this book, the plotline was in no way predictable, and it kept me guessing until the end. I’m not really a fan of books with religious themes, but Hanrahan handles the idea of with the seasoned flair of an old pro. It wasn’t overbearing of heavy-handed for those of us who aren’t religious, and it contained just the right amount of horror and tension to keep me on the edge of my seat. Plus, the state of the world after people begin to disappear is like the beginning of a dystopian novel, which made me like it even more.
Clarke and Micah were likeable protagonists, though I felt like some details were missing from their backstory that would have made them fully realized three-dimensional characters. I also liked the natural—if a tad rushed—evolution of Micah and Clarke’s relationship. And while I wasn’t satisfied with the ending (it was a cliffhanger! No fair!), I will definitely be keeping an eye on this author and the sequel to this book. Overall, Vestige was a quick, enjoyable read that was fun and keeps you guessing.
A copy of this book was provided for review by the author via Reading Addiction Blog Tours.
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For more book reviews, visit my blog The Bookshelf!
Vestige starts out right in the middle of the action, as people and animals start to go missing. Something mysterious and ominous is taking place, and our two leads Clarke and Micah are in a race against the clock to stop it… if they can. The suspense begins to build, and it doesn’t let up until the very last page!
While I had some idea about what I was getting myself into with this book, the plotline was in no way predictable, and it kept me guessing until the end. I’m not really a fan of books with religious themes, but Hanrahan handles the idea of with the seasoned flair of an old pro. It wasn’t overbearing of heavy-handed for those of us who aren’t religious, and it contained just the right amount of horror and tension to keep me on the edge of my seat. Plus, the state of the world after people begin to disappear is like the beginning of a dystopian novel, which made me like it even more.
Clarke and Micah were likeable protagonists, though I felt like some details were missing from their backstory that would have made them fully realized three-dimensional characters. I also liked the natural—if a tad rushed—evolution of Micah and Clarke’s relationship. And while I wasn’t satisfied with the ending (it was a cliffhanger! No fair!), I will definitely be keeping an eye on this author and the sequel to this book. Overall, Vestige was a quick, enjoyable read that was fun and keeps you guessing.
A copy of this book was provided for review by the author via Reading Addiction Blog Tours.
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For more book reviews, visit my blog The Bookshelf!
August 1, 2012
This book it's just Awesome ! I read the whole book in just two nights.I couldn't stop ! This is a very well build novel ; the characters are very good created and the story is epic ! Micah was the best character,I think.I loved the dialogues;indeed very origial dialogues in this book!There were a few culminating moments and I liked that too.The fact that there were more scenes is great.I mean,I was always wondering what was Jon doing while I was reading about Micah ,or something like this.Jon,by the way was awesome ,because he could see the people's auras.As I was reading these apocalyptic scenes,I was wondering were the hell half of the population could hide ! Then,as I read more,I found out about the tagg on the hand and I remembered something from the Bible.I remembered that those taggs were the Satan signes,but I was not sure ,until I read more.Then I decided I hated Grimshaw as much as I could !When he appeared in Clarke's dreams ,I didn't know who he really was,but then I found out...
Oh,but I still don't know what he wants from Clarke and for that I am extremely excited in the second book! Plus,I miss Micah - who had a really interesting history with his descendent mother and father as angels. Jon's dog still reminds something strange to me.I don't know why is he in the book,but I know that without him,the story wouldn't fit in .
Again,this is one of the best books I've ever read ! Thank you so much Deb for the chance of reading it ! I recomment it to Everyone !
Respect for Deb Hanrahan :).
Oh,but I still don't know what he wants from Clarke and for that I am extremely excited in the second book! Plus,I miss Micah - who had a really interesting history with his descendent mother and father as angels. Jon's dog still reminds something strange to me.I don't know why is he in the book,but I know that without him,the story wouldn't fit in .
Again,this is one of the best books I've ever read ! Thank you so much Deb for the chance of reading it ! I recomment it to Everyone !
Respect for Deb Hanrahan :).
October 26, 2012
The concept of the book is great. People go missing by the hundreds. It appears all the good people have gone and the kids under the age of 13 and the doctors and nurses. The idea has potential for a great book. However I found myself disappointed. Half way through the book I was wondering why so many pages were wasted with so little action. "The end" explained it all. The words "to be continued" tell me that this is just the first book in a series and I am being forced again into reading another few books with boring middle sections so the real end can be strung out, maybe till the real second coming.
It seems to be the order of publishing these days that every author thinks they are cut out to write the great eppic american novel as their first or second work. Let me tell the truth here. Readers do not like to feel ensnared, trapped and tricked into another series. And in most cases it takes a good author who has done a fair bit of writing to succefully start a series that can stand up in it's own merrit.
I am the first to admit that I like a good series of books where one gets to like the characters and get's to meet them again and again. But these are books with individual stories that finish, but have a main theme running through it. This book felt like I have been given half a book only. Nothing felt finished and it was not riveting in the least.
One star for having well formed consistent characters.
It seems to be the order of publishing these days that every author thinks they are cut out to write the great eppic american novel as their first or second work. Let me tell the truth here. Readers do not like to feel ensnared, trapped and tricked into another series. And in most cases it takes a good author who has done a fair bit of writing to succefully start a series that can stand up in it's own merrit.
I am the first to admit that I like a good series of books where one gets to like the characters and get's to meet them again and again. But these are books with individual stories that finish, but have a main theme running through it. This book felt like I have been given half a book only. Nothing felt finished and it was not riveting in the least.
One star for having well formed consistent characters.
September 1, 2012
**Spoilers are in this review**
**This was a first reads review**
I am sorry to say I did not like this book. I got this book from first reads not realizing it was a book on the Rapture. I am a firm believer of the rapture and at first thought it would not be a problem, however, I was unable to suspend my own religous beliefs enough to enjoy the story, I spent must of the story going that is not the way it is suppose to happen. Therefore, I never really got into the story.
This story also ends in a cliff hanger. I hate cliff hangers so for me it was another mark against the book. The story goes that the rapture has happened. Every child under 13 is gone and all believers have also been taken. Heaven has closed its gates, but no one on earth knows what is happening. A state of emergency has been declared and everyone is supposed to be marked so the government can keep track of you. You cannnot get anything with out the mark. The hero is a boy named Micah who is the "Guardian". He is to kill the anti christ, who is some guy named Mr. Grimshaw. Micah is trying to protect a girl named Clarke and Mr. Grimshaw wants her because she is suppose to help him win the war. The book ends with Micah being bet up and Mr. Grimshaw headed to Washington D.C. with Clarke.
**This was a first reads review**
I am sorry to say I did not like this book. I got this book from first reads not realizing it was a book on the Rapture. I am a firm believer of the rapture and at first thought it would not be a problem, however, I was unable to suspend my own religous beliefs enough to enjoy the story, I spent must of the story going that is not the way it is suppose to happen. Therefore, I never really got into the story.
This story also ends in a cliff hanger. I hate cliff hangers so for me it was another mark against the book. The story goes that the rapture has happened. Every child under 13 is gone and all believers have also been taken. Heaven has closed its gates, but no one on earth knows what is happening. A state of emergency has been declared and everyone is supposed to be marked so the government can keep track of you. You cannnot get anything with out the mark. The hero is a boy named Micah who is the "Guardian". He is to kill the anti christ, who is some guy named Mr. Grimshaw. Micah is trying to protect a girl named Clarke and Mr. Grimshaw wants her because she is suppose to help him win the war. The book ends with Micah being bet up and Mr. Grimshaw headed to Washington D.C. with Clarke.
September 7, 2012
Oh my god what an ending! Well for starters I won this book from first reads on goodreads in a giveaway. I rated the book 3 stars because I did like the book. I am a little annoyed at how the plot is very similar to that of the Left behind series by Tim Lahaye, as I read the entire series all 12 books and I honestly felt as though I was reading it again just written a little differently. I loved the writing style and the characters were great in this book. I enjoyed the love story between Micah and Clarke, and also the message behind the book. The characters were easy to follow and I felt like I got enough about each one to be connected just right to how they played out in the story. I was not so happy to have the build up of suspense and have the huge cliff hanger at the end of TO BE Continued:( I think it was genius however I will be waiting to read book 2 in this series now. I would recommend this book to my friends it was a good read even though i thought it resembled Tim Lahayes books a little too much but who knows what's in store in the second book? Guess I will find out when it comes out.
June 22, 2012
The story veers off pretty significantly from the book blurb. If you really want to know it is . I will say that parts of it reminded me of Stephen King's The Stand, which is one of my all time favorite books.
The story follows Michah and Clarke, two teenagers in a small town. One day, every child under the age of thirteen disappears as do many adults (and all the dogs). Micah and Clarke are both experiencing realistic dreams about what is going on and this story really just lays out the situation and the very beginnings of a conflict, as I mention in the first line, there is no resolution as this story isn't complete.
I was intrigued enough by the plot to keep reading and find out what was going on. It is a unique story line and I think an interesting one. The characters are a little flat, but some of that is probably due to the fact that the story cuts off so quickly.
Overall, I liked Vestige, but I probably would not have paid for it knowing that it was really only the first few chapters in a longer book.
March 18, 2017
Disclosure: The author is my aunt.
This book has a compelling premise--what would happen if the Rapture occurred today?--and tells its story well. I really appreciated the author's ability to get inside the head of each character and give each one a distinct and compelling backstory. The teenage characters also sound like real teenagers, which I find to be untrue of a lot of characters in YA novels (especially those that deal with "heavy" themes, of which the End Times certainly is one). The book does a really good job of creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and foreboding, and also of incorporating religion and religious themes without coming across as preachy. I liked the villain, but would have liked to hear a bit more detail of how he interacted with other characters; the book hints at a lot about his ability to influence other people, and it seemed so interesting that I would have liked to see more of it firsthand. Maybe that's planned for the sequel, though. I will definitely read the sequel, as I'll be really interested to see how the rest of the story plays out!
This book has a compelling premise--what would happen if the Rapture occurred today?--and tells its story well. I really appreciated the author's ability to get inside the head of each character and give each one a distinct and compelling backstory. The teenage characters also sound like real teenagers, which I find to be untrue of a lot of characters in YA novels (especially those that deal with "heavy" themes, of which the End Times certainly is one). The book does a really good job of creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and foreboding, and also of incorporating religion and religious themes without coming across as preachy. I liked the villain, but would have liked to hear a bit more detail of how he interacted with other characters; the book hints at a lot about his ability to influence other people, and it seemed so interesting that I would have liked to see more of it firsthand. Maybe that's planned for the sequel, though. I will definitely read the sequel, as I'll be really interested to see how the rest of the story plays out!
May 13, 2014
I'd give it a 3.5 if I could, but I just can't bring myself to give it 4.
I really really really really wanted to like this book. I read the synopsis and I was like hell yeah, sounds good to me. There aren't many books when I read the synopsis and think that, so needless to say I had high hopes for this book. The story itself was a great concept, but it wasn't until the last three chapters when the book was actually starting to get good. This was a relatively short book, and it took WAY too long to build up. I did like Clarke and Micah's relationship, because I'm a sucker for romance since my own love life is shitty.
Overall, I enjoyed the premise of the book but it just wasn't a the right pace. It took the whole book to build up to the climax and then left me with three short chapters at the end just to end on a cliff hanger. Unfortunately I was not interested in the book enough to continue on to the second book. This one was free, however, so if I ever see the second one on sale I may read it just to say that I finished this duology.
I really really really really wanted to like this book. I read the synopsis and I was like hell yeah, sounds good to me. There aren't many books when I read the synopsis and think that, so needless to say I had high hopes for this book. The story itself was a great concept, but it wasn't until the last three chapters when the book was actually starting to get good. This was a relatively short book, and it took WAY too long to build up. I did like Clarke and Micah's relationship, because I'm a sucker for romance since my own love life is shitty.
Overall, I enjoyed the premise of the book but it just wasn't a the right pace. It took the whole book to build up to the climax and then left me with three short chapters at the end just to end on a cliff hanger. Unfortunately I was not interested in the book enough to continue on to the second book. This one was free, however, so if I ever see the second one on sale I may read it just to say that I finished this duology.
May 7, 2014
3.5 Stars
Well. I read this book in one sitting. So, it was definitely entertaining. I thought it was right up my alley.
I liked it enough. Micah is an alright character. I didn't love him but I didn't hate him either. He didn't really feel male to me though. And that was kind of a problem.
The romance was, well, lame really. It wasn't exactly insta-love, but not far from it. Their declarations of love kind of blindsided you because you never saw it coming--other than the expectation for it to happen since this is, after all, a YA book.
There's not enough action for my liking. But I am hoping that will be remedied in the books to follow.
I did like that Clarke wasn't a pansy. I'm curious to see where her character is going to go in the next book.
The priest is interesting too.
Why did all the dogs go and not the cats? I'd like an answer to this question. I will be looking for it in the books that follow.
Well. I read this book in one sitting. So, it was definitely entertaining. I thought it was right up my alley.
I liked it enough. Micah is an alright character. I didn't love him but I didn't hate him either. He didn't really feel male to me though. And that was kind of a problem.
The romance was, well, lame really. It wasn't exactly insta-love, but not far from it. Their declarations of love kind of blindsided you because you never saw it coming--other than the expectation for it to happen since this is, after all, a YA book.
There's not enough action for my liking. But I am hoping that will be remedied in the books to follow.
I did like that Clarke wasn't a pansy. I'm curious to see where her character is going to go in the next book.
The priest is interesting too.
Why did all the dogs go and not the cats? I'd like an answer to this question. I will be looking for it in the books that follow.
July 26, 2012
After reading the synopsis for Vestige, I just knew I had to read it and I'm happy to say it did not disappoint! I read this book from start to finish in one afternoon, because I had to know what was going to happen next!
I don't think I have ever read a book about the Rapture before, but I really enjoyed reading about it in this book! I thought the author created a very intriguing story.
This book was told from several different points of view and I really liked getting to know each character and learning about their backgrounds. I thought Micah was a very interesting character and since this book is part of a two book series I'm looking forward to learning more about him in the next book.
Overall, I thought this was a great, quick read and I would definitely recommend it to fans of dystopian or paranormal novels!
I don't think I have ever read a book about the Rapture before, but I really enjoyed reading about it in this book! I thought the author created a very intriguing story.
This book was told from several different points of view and I really liked getting to know each character and learning about their backgrounds. I thought Micah was a very interesting character and since this book is part of a two book series I'm looking forward to learning more about him in the next book.
Overall, I thought this was a great, quick read and I would definitely recommend it to fans of dystopian or paranormal novels!
August 23, 2012
I found this book to have plenty of action and a plot spooky enough to keep your
attention and give you a few chills. Written in the style of Ted Dekker, it is
a story of good versus evil--where the enemy is sometimes too intangible to be
battled head on.
The story is told mainly from teenagers' perspectives on the strange disappearances and events that suddenly begin to unfold; the end of life as they once knew it. Micah comes from a family of serious survivalists who keep themselves prepared for the breakdown of society. He is somewhat
ashamed of their extreme views and worried what his school friends would think if they found out; he just wants a normal life with normal people. But when people begin disappearing and no one can find the answers, Micah must fall back on his mother's teachings and a few new friends just to survive, and maybe even save humanity in the process.
attention and give you a few chills. Written in the style of Ted Dekker, it is
a story of good versus evil--where the enemy is sometimes too intangible to be
battled head on.
The story is told mainly from teenagers' perspectives on the strange disappearances and events that suddenly begin to unfold; the end of life as they once knew it. Micah comes from a family of serious survivalists who keep themselves prepared for the breakdown of society. He is somewhat
ashamed of their extreme views and worried what his school friends would think if they found out; he just wants a normal life with normal people. But when people begin disappearing and no one can find the answers, Micah must fall back on his mother's teachings and a few new friends just to survive, and maybe even save humanity in the process.
August 14, 2012
I knew it would happen sooner or later. Most people have probably heard of the Tim Lahaye/Jerry Jenkins "end times" series of books- Left Behind. They also wrote a similar series for kids/teens from their viewpoint.
Along comes Deb Hanrahan who thinks it would be so peachy keen and totally cool to write a copy cat series of books for easy money. I mean, this is a no-brainer. Just read the Left Behind and Left Behind kids version, create a character, and piggy back LaHaye and Jenkins all the way.
Unfortunately a lot of believers in christian mythology are ignorant and gullible enough to believe this stuff is really going to happen. Please, Deb, let's not encourage them.
I didn't buy this book (perish the thought) but was given a copy with a request for an honest review.
Along comes Deb Hanrahan who thinks it would be so peachy keen and totally cool to write a copy cat series of books for easy money. I mean, this is a no-brainer. Just read the Left Behind and Left Behind kids version, create a character, and piggy back LaHaye and Jenkins all the way.
Unfortunately a lot of believers in christian mythology are ignorant and gullible enough to believe this stuff is really going to happen. Please, Deb, let's not encourage them.
I didn't buy this book (perish the thought) but was given a copy with a request for an honest review.
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