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The Watcher #1
The Unintended
After breaking up with her boyfriend, seventeen-year old Aleria “Ali” Hayes finally feels liberated. Unfortunately, her ex’s buddies are not making it easy on her. When his friends harass her one night, a mysterious stranger, Bowen, steps in to rescue her. But just as this new relationship seems to be taking off, Ali is attacked by something far worse than spiteful high school boys. When she awakes, her eyes are opened to a world where gods still walk the earth, where vampires and other immortals fight for supremacy— and where fate may be stronger than free will. Now, Ali must decide who she can trust, and whether the world of mortals is worth saving at all.
Missing Twilight but want more than a love story? This simple beginning evolves into an epic journey through the shadow world of vampires, fallen angels, and the watchers.
This series is great for anyone who loves the romance of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight Saga, the world-building of Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments Series, and the high stakes of Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games. When you get to book two, fasten your seatbelt, each book is faster, darker, and sexier.
Missing Twilight but want more than a love story? This simple beginning evolves into an epic journey through the shadow world of vampires, fallen angels, and the watchers.
This series is great for anyone who loves the romance of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight Saga, the world-building of Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments Series, and the high stakes of Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games. When you get to book two, fasten your seatbelt, each book is faster, darker, and sexier.
334 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2011
22 people are currently reading
1318 people want to read
About the author
Robin Woods
19 books332 followersRobin Woods is a former high school and university instructor with two and a half decades of experience teaching English, literature, and writing. She earned a BA in English and an MA in Education.
In addition to teaching, Robin Woods has published six highly-rated novels, eight creative writing workbooks, and has multiple projects in the works.
When Ms. Woods isn’t teaching or writing, she is chasing her two kids around and spending time with her ever-patient husband.
In addition to teaching, Robin Woods has published six highly-rated novels, eight creative writing workbooks, and has multiple projects in the works.
When Ms. Woods isn’t teaching or writing, she is chasing her two kids around and spending time with her ever-patient husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 30, 2012
When you write a vampire-romance-type book in this day in age, it had better be extremely special. And, well, this isn't.
Don't get me wrong, it does some things right. I like that there wasn't a creepy age difference between the protagonist and her vampire love-interest. I like that she actually tried to learn some things, like how to use a crossbow or throw knives. I like that she at least had to think a little bit during the climax. I like that, at least at the end, her team of protectors do the smart thing by moving her out of a situation that clearly wasn't working.
Unfortunately, most of the things I liked are pretty small potatoes. This book was something of a slog: sometimes, I simply stopped reading in the middle of a paragraph and just stare at the wall, and it would take me a few seconds to realize I had stopped reading. AND I WOULD SIGH BEFORE I GOT BACK TO READING. Judging from empirical evidence, I think there are sections of this book that I literally found less interesting than my off-white wall. That's very sad.
It's hard to put your finger on why a book bores you, mostly because, whenever you start thinking about it, you get bored and start trying to analyze something else. Either way, here are a few problems with this book that may have been the cause of my wall-staring:
1. The protagonist is kind of boring. This is far from a problem unique to this particular book, but it still contributes to the tedium-factor. It's made even worse by the fact that the protagonist is narrating, and she's not that interesting of a narrator. I know I said that I liked that she tried to pick up a few skills, but, even then, the narration is kind of dull. I didn't really CARE that she was learning how to throw a cross-bow (or whatever), I just respected the concept on an objective level. She's not a bad role model, she's just bland.
2. The protagonist has dozens of interchangeable friends. Okay, this is hyperbole. She's got Kay, Angela, Kathleen, Marie, Kaela and Maggie, so that's six. And don't be impressed that I remembered all of their names, because I had to look them up just now. I may have missed one, in fact. And, dear god, these friends are bland and interchangeable. I mean, I think maybe Angela's more outgoing and Kay's more, I don't know, motherly, but these differences are SUBTLE. Why are there even six of them? Why not, like, two? Then I could keep them straight and would be more interested in reading about them.
3. A whole lot of the book is about the protagonist doing very mundane things. Talking to friends. Going to the bookstore. Going to the beach. Sleeping. I don't want to READ about these things, I do them every day! Holy crap, it's like The Traveling Vampire Show all over again! (disclaimer: This book is nowhere near as bad as The Traveling Vampire Show, for all its flaws.)
4. Too much exposition. Nothing can ruin a book like too much exposition! Large chunks of this book involve the protagonist talking with someone about exposition. And the scenes just seem to go on and on, like you're reading a book entirely of exposition! Actually, looking back, I'm not sure how much of it was exposition and how much of it was just talking. There is a lot of talking in this book. They talk about love, summer vacation, vampires, forgetting sunglasses, caffeine, blood loss, stubborn streaks, and what feels (to me) like ABSOLUTELY NOTHING AT ALL.
5. It compares itself to other books. Obligatorily to Shakespeare, but also The Great Gatsby for some reason. Now, I'm not sure if other readers share this pet peeve of mine, but my interest in a book goes WAY down the minute it starts comparing itself to other books, frequently classics, usually Shakespeare. Book, I am the reader. I will read you, and then, if I think you should be compared to another book, I will compare you. I will discuss you. If I think Shakespeare need be brought up, I WILL BRING HIM UP. You do not need to. You will typically do so in a PRETENTIOUS MANNER. You will typically also not be as funny as Shakespeare, so it is a bad idea to bring him up anyway. (PS: If you want compare yourself to The Great Gatsby, I suppose that might sound like a good idea because it might make you look better in comparison. But it will still probably be a bad idea because, god dammit, book, IF YOU DESERVE TO BE COMPARED TO ANOTHER BOOK, I WILL DO IT.)
So, yeah, this book did not really hold my personal interest. However, there is one little bit that I found hilarious. It was probably unintentional. But still hilarious. I would like to imagine that Bowen, our villain, has just taught us how a villain goes about tempting people to the dark side, with his wonderful line from page 251:
"...You can have everything you want. An extraordinary life. Children. Grandchildren. Everything."
Got that, aspiring villains? What tempts people to the dark side isn't power or immortality or greed. It's children. And grandchildren. Which is, apparently, everything the dark side has to offer.
Seriously.They don't even have jelly-filled doughnuts like the rest of us.
Don't get me wrong, it does some things right. I like that there wasn't a creepy age difference between the protagonist and her vampire love-interest. I like that she actually tried to learn some things, like how to use a crossbow or throw knives. I like that she at least had to think a little bit during the climax. I like that, at least at the end, her team of protectors do the smart thing by moving her out of a situation that clearly wasn't working.
Unfortunately, most of the things I liked are pretty small potatoes. This book was something of a slog: sometimes, I simply stopped reading in the middle of a paragraph and just stare at the wall, and it would take me a few seconds to realize I had stopped reading. AND I WOULD SIGH BEFORE I GOT BACK TO READING. Judging from empirical evidence, I think there are sections of this book that I literally found less interesting than my off-white wall. That's very sad.
It's hard to put your finger on why a book bores you, mostly because, whenever you start thinking about it, you get bored and start trying to analyze something else. Either way, here are a few problems with this book that may have been the cause of my wall-staring:
1. The protagonist is kind of boring. This is far from a problem unique to this particular book, but it still contributes to the tedium-factor. It's made even worse by the fact that the protagonist is narrating, and she's not that interesting of a narrator. I know I said that I liked that she tried to pick up a few skills, but, even then, the narration is kind of dull. I didn't really CARE that she was learning how to throw a cross-bow (or whatever), I just respected the concept on an objective level. She's not a bad role model, she's just bland.
2. The protagonist has dozens of interchangeable friends. Okay, this is hyperbole. She's got Kay, Angela, Kathleen, Marie, Kaela and Maggie, so that's six. And don't be impressed that I remembered all of their names, because I had to look them up just now. I may have missed one, in fact. And, dear god, these friends are bland and interchangeable. I mean, I think maybe Angela's more outgoing and Kay's more, I don't know, motherly, but these differences are SUBTLE. Why are there even six of them? Why not, like, two? Then I could keep them straight and would be more interested in reading about them.
3. A whole lot of the book is about the protagonist doing very mundane things. Talking to friends. Going to the bookstore. Going to the beach. Sleeping. I don't want to READ about these things, I do them every day! Holy crap, it's like The Traveling Vampire Show all over again! (disclaimer: This book is nowhere near as bad as The Traveling Vampire Show, for all its flaws.)
4. Too much exposition. Nothing can ruin a book like too much exposition! Large chunks of this book involve the protagonist talking with someone about exposition. And the scenes just seem to go on and on, like you're reading a book entirely of exposition! Actually, looking back, I'm not sure how much of it was exposition and how much of it was just talking. There is a lot of talking in this book. They talk about love, summer vacation, vampires, forgetting sunglasses, caffeine, blood loss, stubborn streaks, and what feels (to me) like ABSOLUTELY NOTHING AT ALL.
5. It compares itself to other books. Obligatorily to Shakespeare, but also The Great Gatsby for some reason. Now, I'm not sure if other readers share this pet peeve of mine, but my interest in a book goes WAY down the minute it starts comparing itself to other books, frequently classics, usually Shakespeare. Book, I am the reader. I will read you, and then, if I think you should be compared to another book, I will compare you. I will discuss you. If I think Shakespeare need be brought up, I WILL BRING HIM UP. You do not need to. You will typically do so in a PRETENTIOUS MANNER. You will typically also not be as funny as Shakespeare, so it is a bad idea to bring him up anyway. (PS: If you want compare yourself to The Great Gatsby, I suppose that might sound like a good idea because it might make you look better in comparison. But it will still probably be a bad idea because, god dammit, book, IF YOU DESERVE TO BE COMPARED TO ANOTHER BOOK, I WILL DO IT.)
So, yeah, this book did not really hold my personal interest. However, there is one little bit that I found hilarious. It was probably unintentional. But still hilarious. I would like to imagine that Bowen, our villain, has just taught us how a villain goes about tempting people to the dark side, with his wonderful line from page 251:
"...You can have everything you want. An extraordinary life. Children. Grandchildren. Everything."
Got that, aspiring villains? What tempts people to the dark side isn't power or immortality or greed. It's children. And grandchildren. Which is, apparently, everything the dark side has to offer.
Seriously.They don't even have jelly-filled doughnuts like the rest of us.
May 11, 2015
Free on Kindle Unlimited
I really enjoyed this one and have downloaded the next book already. The characters were likable and the plot dived into some good deviation away from other high-school vampire stuff. For a start, the love interest wasn't at high-school. Always a good move.
There's some differences that stand up well, even though there's something of a Van Helsing element.
Looks like the next book is veering off and there should be a different atmosphere and new characters. I'm looking forward to it.
I really enjoyed this one and have downloaded the next book already. The characters were likable and the plot dived into some good deviation away from other high-school vampire stuff. For a start, the love interest wasn't at high-school. Always a good move.
There's some differences that stand up well, even though there's something of a Van Helsing element.
Looks like the next book is veering off and there should be a different atmosphere and new characters. I'm looking forward to it.
June 25, 2013
Robin Woods’ first installment of The Watcher Series, The Unintended caught me by surprise. I don't typically gravitate toward vampire stories, but this tale captivated and held my attention.
I was drawn to the setting of the story since it takes place near my hometown in Northern California (Campbell, CA) and I was entertained by such declarations as the police department being so well-armed that they had a tank in their arsenal. Following the story from the protagonist’s point of view kept me engage, since Ali is a very likeable lead. She’s entering her senior year of high school and is grounded in her beliefs; her maturity helps to drive the story forward. The author makes references to various literature classics, including Shakespeare and weaves them to parallel the storyline which works to cement Ali’s intelligence. The suspected antagonist is introduced early enough to keep the reader engaged, and the love interest slides in seamlessly.
Although some tedious details involving secondary characters could have been left out, they were minor. A few of the characters, such as Ali’s school friends, were underdeveloped, and unfortunately, there were too many of them. This wasn’t a major flaw in anyway as it was a minor distraction and all was balanced by the primary arc of the story.
The battle scenes are choreographed in minute detail and I savored the action sequences as they were well written. The author creatively weaves in various subplots and plants enough twists to fuel the series. Ali is enlightened and yet, there are enough unanswered questions to keep her vulnerable and desired. She is not positioned as a heroine, making her more relatable and yet, there is mystery surrounding her with potential development for future installments.
I found The Unintended to be engaging and a fun escape. I can now consider myself a vampire book reader and fan of this delightful story. I was pleased the author included a sampling for Book II of The Watcher Series, The Nexus. Bravo!
C. Toni Graham
Author of Crossroads and the Himalayan Crystals
I was drawn to the setting of the story since it takes place near my hometown in Northern California (Campbell, CA) and I was entertained by such declarations as the police department being so well-armed that they had a tank in their arsenal. Following the story from the protagonist’s point of view kept me engage, since Ali is a very likeable lead. She’s entering her senior year of high school and is grounded in her beliefs; her maturity helps to drive the story forward. The author makes references to various literature classics, including Shakespeare and weaves them to parallel the storyline which works to cement Ali’s intelligence. The suspected antagonist is introduced early enough to keep the reader engaged, and the love interest slides in seamlessly.
Although some tedious details involving secondary characters could have been left out, they were minor. A few of the characters, such as Ali’s school friends, were underdeveloped, and unfortunately, there were too many of them. This wasn’t a major flaw in anyway as it was a minor distraction and all was balanced by the primary arc of the story.
The battle scenes are choreographed in minute detail and I savored the action sequences as they were well written. The author creatively weaves in various subplots and plants enough twists to fuel the series. Ali is enlightened and yet, there are enough unanswered questions to keep her vulnerable and desired. She is not positioned as a heroine, making her more relatable and yet, there is mystery surrounding her with potential development for future installments.
I found The Unintended to be engaging and a fun escape. I can now consider myself a vampire book reader and fan of this delightful story. I was pleased the author included a sampling for Book II of The Watcher Series, The Nexus. Bravo!
C. Toni Graham
Author of Crossroads and the Himalayan Crystals
October 18, 2013
Listen I got this book as a free PDF so I had nothing invested in it from the beginning. But, I have to say even for a paranormal romance this is just dull. I think I finished this book but I can't say if I did because I just started to drift off halfway through this thing. It's tired its been done before and it adds nothing new.
However one thing did bug me, the biblical stuff. I am not saying that including the bible was bad because I have read a biblical paranormal romance and it was so bad it was funny. But, the Biblical history presented is rubbish. Yes the bible mentions 10 tribes and one but if you ever look at a map of ancient Israel the tribe of Simeon is inside of the tribe of Judah and other sources say that the tribe of Benjamin sided with Judah and that the levites, who had no land, sided with Judah. What I am saying is there is a lot of confusion about this chapter of the bible but what I can definitively say is that the God of the old testament, as much as he was into hell and damnation, would not curse people with immortality. Also way to be super specific with your Kings 11 reference but then the prophet who created vampires is mysteriously unnamed. I mean Maleria doesn't even seem surprised that vampires are biblical. And if vampires are biblical that makes a lot of weird questions arise. Vampire the Masquerade had a better Biblical vampire origin saying that vampires are the descendents of Cain. What I am saying is that the possible unique point of this story is not at all unique and instead a plot hole.
The story is boring, Maleria is boring and this is just another drop in the tsunami of paranormal romance. However it was free so I guess I just lost time and not money to this book.
August 24, 2013
I really liked it!
The main character, Ali, was very strong and even though she does make a few dumb mistakes, she instantly realizes them and acknowledges them and tries to learn from them. She also tries her hand at a cross bow after she discovers she's got a vampire (or two) on her tail which I really think is brave of her. She knows that she'll probably lose in a fight against them but she would want to go down trying, which says a lot about her character.
Josh was a good character to me but I feel like he was just shy of being a "real" person. Ali felt real to me and I always forgot I was reading a book, not real life, but with Josh there was just something missing. I mean he was still a great character but he just didn't feel like a person person to me. He did have some really sweet lines though;)
Gabriel was probably hands down, my favorite character. He was funny, nice, protective and just a good friend.
I like the plot, especially in the beginning, although it seemed to drag just a bit at the end for me. I did read the little chapter of the next book and I am definitely going to read it! I'm hooked!
I think the reason why I like The Unintended so much is because the main focus of the plot isn't a round the vampires or the vampire romance (even though they are important) but around the people who deal with them: Watchers, Slayers etc. Most books (that I've read at least) don't do that and it's just different to me. It was a good adventure read, exactly what I was looking for.
The main character, Ali, was very strong and even though she does make a few dumb mistakes, she instantly realizes them and acknowledges them and tries to learn from them. She also tries her hand at a cross bow after she discovers she's got a vampire (or two) on her tail which I really think is brave of her. She knows that she'll probably lose in a fight against them but she would want to go down trying, which says a lot about her character.
Josh was a good character to me but I feel like he was just shy of being a "real" person. Ali felt real to me and I always forgot I was reading a book, not real life, but with Josh there was just something missing. I mean he was still a great character but he just didn't feel like a person person to me. He did have some really sweet lines though;)
Gabriel was probably hands down, my favorite character. He was funny, nice, protective and just a good friend.
I like the plot, especially in the beginning, although it seemed to drag just a bit at the end for me. I did read the little chapter of the next book and I am definitely going to read it! I'm hooked!
I think the reason why I like The Unintended so much is because the main focus of the plot isn't a round the vampires or the vampire romance (even though they are important) but around the people who deal with them: Watchers, Slayers etc. Most books (that I've read at least) don't do that and it's just different to me. It was a good adventure read, exactly what I was looking for.
December 18, 2011
Robin Woods’s The Unintended is what I wanted Twilight to be without resorting to fanfic. The vampires are decidedly scary, if still sympathetic. The heroine is self-aware and physically competent. The uncomfortable age difference in the requisite vampire/mortal relationship is handily solved by making the vampire newly-turned. The romance itself does not overwhelm the narrative, and is neither overly cloying nor explicit.
The mythology is the decided strength of the novel. While it does utilize the expected tropes (mysterious stranger with an “icy hand,” circumstances to have the protagonist conveniently home alone), the integration of Biblical and Celtic sources feels fresh. The action sequences are engaging. Where the plot tends to slow is the descriptions of mundane (non)events--which, granted, sometimes carry a necessary plot point. The occasional over-explanation has a tendency to slow the narrative as well. These hiccups, however, do not mar the overall experience, and I expect they will work themselves out in the series as a whole as this debut author hits her stride.
Recommended.
The mythology is the decided strength of the novel. While it does utilize the expected tropes (mysterious stranger with an “icy hand,” circumstances to have the protagonist conveniently home alone), the integration of Biblical and Celtic sources feels fresh. The action sequences are engaging. Where the plot tends to slow is the descriptions of mundane (non)events--which, granted, sometimes carry a necessary plot point. The occasional over-explanation has a tendency to slow the narrative as well. These hiccups, however, do not mar the overall experience, and I expect they will work themselves out in the series as a whole as this debut author hits her stride.
Recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2014
As her freshman entry to writing YA novels, Robin Woods does an extremely good job. It's evident early on that this book is the start of a series as she weaves in depth and detail that enhance this story but also serve as a foundation for the ones to come.
The story of high school junior Aleria Hayes' entry into the world of vampires is bracingly realistic - especially the angst and drama that surrounds the end of the school year. I found myself getting impatient with her (as I do many high school-aged young people) and started to really enjoy the book once it got deeper into the world of vampires.
There are parts of the story where I got kinda of lost - especially when the action got going but I'll chalk that up to being a first book where characters and writing style are still developing. I've read Wood's fourth novel "Allure" (a prequel to this novel) and found that her style has evolved, matured, and settled. I look forward to the rest of "The Watchers" series.
The story of high school junior Aleria Hayes' entry into the world of vampires is bracingly realistic - especially the angst and drama that surrounds the end of the school year. I found myself getting impatient with her (as I do many high school-aged young people) and started to really enjoy the book once it got deeper into the world of vampires.
There are parts of the story where I got kinda of lost - especially when the action got going but I'll chalk that up to being a first book where characters and writing style are still developing. I've read Wood's fourth novel "Allure" (a prequel to this novel) and found that her style has evolved, matured, and settled. I look forward to the rest of "The Watchers" series.
June 26, 2014
****POSSIBLE SPOILERS****
Although I have read several series based on vampires they aren't my favorite subject. I am not the type to believe that there are vampires roaming the earth (although I wish one would find me and fall in love with me *cough* Joshua *cough*), but knowing the coffee shop in which the interactions begin makes this book seem as though it could be real, and keeps me looking over my shoulder at night ;) I have to say I am a fan of Aleria, the protagonist and narrator, and that I find myself relating to her and also comparing what I would have done with what she did. I would suggest this book to anyone who's looking for a page turner and is willing to stay up WAY too late. I like the speed of this book, because although it starts slower it allows the reader to become engrossed in the plot without being thrown into the hurricane that is book two.
Although I have read several series based on vampires they aren't my favorite subject. I am not the type to believe that there are vampires roaming the earth (although I wish one would find me and fall in love with me *cough* Joshua *cough*), but knowing the coffee shop in which the interactions begin makes this book seem as though it could be real, and keeps me looking over my shoulder at night ;) I have to say I am a fan of Aleria, the protagonist and narrator, and that I find myself relating to her and also comparing what I would have done with what she did. I would suggest this book to anyone who's looking for a page turner and is willing to stay up WAY too late. I like the speed of this book, because although it starts slower it allows the reader to become engrossed in the plot without being thrown into the hurricane that is book two.
December 14, 2011
A fantastic work of suspense and mystique, The Unintended left me craving more. Robin Woods has created a brilliant world where everything and nothing can make sense simultaneously. Her vampires do not sparkle, but their roles are far more intriguing. Woods' unique take on these over-used villains is refreshing. The romance also refrains from being overbearing. Although delightful, the relationship does not become the focus of the novel. There truly is something in this book for everyone. I absolutely cannot wait until the second book is published!
July 5, 2020
I've gotta say, I had at one point completely lost faith in the vampire genre. It is thanks to Robin Woods that hope has been renewed in me. I must also personally thank her for giving us a strong heroine which is difficult to come by nowadays. I thoroughly enjoyed The Unintended. There is something for everyone in the this book (yes, male readers, that includes you). It has the perfect blend of suspense, romance, drama, and action to keep its reader wanting more. Seriously, I cannot get over how much I love this book! I can't wait until the next book comes out!
October 17, 2013
I really disliked this book, It is total bullshit if you ask me. Th story is utterly terrible. Teenagers have never acted this way and it is so clear that it is a story. Everyone, don't look at the 5 star reviews, All of these reviews were done by the authors students for extra credit. I even heard the auther flipped at some of them. I highly suggest you do not read this book as it is utter shit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2015
I bought the book after telling a friend I was looking for something new to read. Her daughter had read the entire series and loved it. I thought I'd buy one and see. I was hooked! I have purchased the entire series, as well as the prequel and have not been able to put them down! I would like to thank the author for making the heroine strong and competent and not an airhead.
October 23, 2013
If you haven't read this yet, you are missing out. You will instantly fall in love with every character in this book and become sucked into a world of vampires. One of the best books I have ever read. This author is amazing.
February 3, 2013
This book grabbed my attention from the start. The characters were easy to like/love especially the protagonist. I couldn't put this book down!
March 26, 2024
Ah, yes. One of my favorite books to read when I feel the need to cry.
Yes, it has a good storyline.
However, the book has a written dialogue that annoys me badly.
Before continuing, please be aware that I have adapted to Rick Riordan's way of writing, so my review may be biased.
(:
I liked most of everything about the story, it was fun to read. However, it's formatted like a fanfic and I really hate it. The way the writing is displayed is also kind of amateurish. Aleria's character is bland, with barely any personality. Actually, most (if not all) of the characters have little to no personality in them. While reading, the story was interesting, but because of the length and ongoing dialogue (The entire story is just dialogue, dialogue and more dialogue; it's more tiring to read than interesting.) it's annoying and often caused me to skip over globs of words.
Of course, there were some good parts that I liked (Vampy boi biting Aleria, you have no idea how much I like reading pain and torture lol) and some parts I really hated, but overall I give a 4/10. It was depressingly not that good.
Yes, it has a good storyline.
However, the book has a written dialogue that annoys me badly.
Before continuing, please be aware that I have adapted to Rick Riordan's way of writing, so my review may be biased.
(:
I liked most of everything about the story, it was fun to read. However, it's formatted like a fanfic and I really hate it. The way the writing is displayed is also kind of amateurish. Aleria's character is bland, with barely any personality. Actually, most (if not all) of the characters have little to no personality in them. While reading, the story was interesting, but because of the length and ongoing dialogue (The entire story is just dialogue, dialogue and more dialogue; it's more tiring to read than interesting.) it's annoying and often caused me to skip over globs of words.
Of course, there were some good parts that I liked (Vampy boi biting Aleria, you have no idea how much I like reading pain and torture lol) and some parts I really hated, but overall I give a 4/10. It was depressingly not that good.
July 24, 2017
I am not going to finish reading this book. To me it's boring. There's really not much going on for the first hundred pages that could have been done in half the amount. The story itself is written in the first person perspective and comes off as a boring teenage diary which is not engaging or entertaining. While I read it I find myself looking at ways to edit the story to reduce redundancy in order to find a way to keep myself reading it, but I just don't find it entertaining enough to even keep reading.
*I received this book through first reads giveaway*
*I received this book through first reads giveaway*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2017
That was a wonderful surprise. I loved it. Josh, Gabriel and Ali are my favorites. There are many more characters that I like, even Bowen. Shocking, I usually don't like the bad guys. Will see what happens next. I am REALLY hoping that book 2 does not change the storyline to much like it some books and I start to hate the series. This has happened in 3 recent series' that I have read.
January 12, 2023
The Unintended.
A strong, confident protagonist, danger, excitement, and romance. Everything you want in a book. Strong characters with a supernatural twist. I loved this book. I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy and the supernatural.
A strong, confident protagonist, danger, excitement, and romance. Everything you want in a book. Strong characters with a supernatural twist. I loved this book. I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy and the supernatural.
November 10, 2018
Started out promising.... and went down hill from there. The main character was boring. The vampire lore was confusing....if I could sum this book up in one word it would be...
Bland.
Bland.
August 1, 2014
I'm a busy guy. I'm picky as well. Something's gotta be pretty great to be worth my time and hold my attention. I'm not a huge reader for this reason. I'm the farthest thing from a Twihard or someone who's typically into any teen romance type stories, or someone who jumps on trendy band wagons, but The Watcher Series is totally different from anything else I've come across.
Why I like The Unintended:
1. Characters are grounded in reality. They are well-thought out with real motivations for their actions. You become invested in their lives and need to know what happens next.
2. It's an easy read. You can motor through this guy cover to cover and onto the next one. I did.
3. Unexpected twists and turns!
4. New and unique take on the vampire genre.
A few reviews of this book are super negative and you know what, some of these negative reviews do bring up decent points. But they're mislead. The Unintended might not be your favorite book of all time. But it's still more than worth reading and here's why: Coming from someone who has read the three books in this trilogy as well as the prequel, and is now even reading the final two books of the series (which aren't out yet at the time this review is being written), I can earnestly say that although The Unintended isn't the greatest masterpiece ever written, Robin Woods skillfully sets the ground-work for what develops into a rich, believable and captivating world with its own lore, deep history and most of all, engaging characters that will stick with you long after you turn the final page.
The scope of this series is so great that it has something for everyone. You seriously will not believe the places this story goes (so far beyond the high school drama of The Unintended). People have pointed out that the series doesn't come out with guns blaring, huge explosions and car chases. But what proper epic doesn't have humble beginnings? Lord of the Rings doesn't start on Mount Doom. There has to be a buildup. A quaint beginning helps the reader appreciate where a story ends up. With every new novel of the Watcher Series, Robin Woods somehow manages to outdo the previous one in every way, all the while getting darker and more mature the further the story progresses. The stakes become higher, the scale becomes grander and the story becomes more and more intense and rewarding to read and be a part of. Pick up this book. And don't stop there. Go onto The Nexus. You won't regret it. Don’t miss out on this series!
Why I like The Unintended:
1. Characters are grounded in reality. They are well-thought out with real motivations for their actions. You become invested in their lives and need to know what happens next.
2. It's an easy read. You can motor through this guy cover to cover and onto the next one. I did.
3. Unexpected twists and turns!
4. New and unique take on the vampire genre.
A few reviews of this book are super negative and you know what, some of these negative reviews do bring up decent points. But they're mislead. The Unintended might not be your favorite book of all time. But it's still more than worth reading and here's why: Coming from someone who has read the three books in this trilogy as well as the prequel, and is now even reading the final two books of the series (which aren't out yet at the time this review is being written), I can earnestly say that although The Unintended isn't the greatest masterpiece ever written, Robin Woods skillfully sets the ground-work for what develops into a rich, believable and captivating world with its own lore, deep history and most of all, engaging characters that will stick with you long after you turn the final page.
The scope of this series is so great that it has something for everyone. You seriously will not believe the places this story goes (so far beyond the high school drama of The Unintended). People have pointed out that the series doesn't come out with guns blaring, huge explosions and car chases. But what proper epic doesn't have humble beginnings? Lord of the Rings doesn't start on Mount Doom. There has to be a buildup. A quaint beginning helps the reader appreciate where a story ends up. With every new novel of the Watcher Series, Robin Woods somehow manages to outdo the previous one in every way, all the while getting darker and more mature the further the story progresses. The stakes become higher, the scale becomes grander and the story becomes more and more intense and rewarding to read and be a part of. Pick up this book. And don't stop there. Go onto The Nexus. You won't regret it. Don’t miss out on this series!
February 26, 2017
WOW! I was completely blown away!! This book is amazing! I read a lot of books/series in the paranormal genre, but I have found that my favorites tend to be written by English teachers. Robin Woods is by far no exception. She is a brilliant and talented author. Not only does she provide a fresh new take on vampires and an exciting can't-wait-to-get-to-the-end storyline, but her command of the English language is refreshing and delightful as well. As a lover of language, I found myself enjoying the novel all the more when Woods used synonyms for commonly used everyday words (ex. locks for hair; libation for daily dose of favorite coffee). I also thought her literary references and Biblical references were a great tie-in that helped round-out the story and make it even more relatable to a broader audience. Wood's use of descriptive language and imagery help the reader's imagination to easily create pictures of what is happening in the story, as well as scenes and character descriptions. The foreshadowing used makes the reader all that more anxious and excited to get to the end of the story and to anticipate what has been alluded to and what will happen in the next novel in the series. I also reside in the Bay Area and was delighted to find geological references and social hotspots highlighted in the novel.
As a new author I think Robin Woods is fantastic. This series looks to be the best in its genre and I recommend it to anyone who's even remotely interested in reading about vampires or the paranormal-you will not be sorry. Didn't like Twilight? Doesn't matter. This is not Twilight. This is not like anything you've ever experienced. Read it. You'll love it!
As a new author I think Robin Woods is fantastic. This series looks to be the best in its genre and I recommend it to anyone who's even remotely interested in reading about vampires or the paranormal-you will not be sorry. Didn't like Twilight? Doesn't matter. This is not Twilight. This is not like anything you've ever experienced. Read it. You'll love it!
January 11, 2012
I have read several books in this genre (but is not my typical genre) and this is the first that I really enjoyed and was able to move through quickly but with a desire to complete.
The Unintended is an excellent novel, particularly for the first of a trilogy. It has all the elements for its demographic (young readers) but as a mature person, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It had suspense, historical references (which I enjoy) and set the stage for more ‘happenings’ with the protagonist, Ali, and the cast of characters that help her in her development. The author provides solid writing in all respects, particularly as the novel progresses and the reader gets engrossed in this young woman’s adventure. It is wonderful to see a strong young female character who uses her brain and common sense to help her and others along – we need more strong heroines as role models in today’s world. I really enjoyed, as a parent, the dialogue between Ali and her mother – it really struck home how authentic (at least to me) they were in their conversations. I believe a book like this for young readers will provide information about the genre in an exciting yet respectful manner. I truly look forward to seeing the rest of the trilogy in print and I know that I personally plan to refer others to this interesting and delightful book.
The Unintended is an excellent novel, particularly for the first of a trilogy. It has all the elements for its demographic (young readers) but as a mature person, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It had suspense, historical references (which I enjoy) and set the stage for more ‘happenings’ with the protagonist, Ali, and the cast of characters that help her in her development. The author provides solid writing in all respects, particularly as the novel progresses and the reader gets engrossed in this young woman’s adventure. It is wonderful to see a strong young female character who uses her brain and common sense to help her and others along – we need more strong heroines as role models in today’s world. I really enjoyed, as a parent, the dialogue between Ali and her mother – it really struck home how authentic (at least to me) they were in their conversations. I believe a book like this for young readers will provide information about the genre in an exciting yet respectful manner. I truly look forward to seeing the rest of the trilogy in print and I know that I personally plan to refer others to this interesting and delightful book.
February 17, 2017
This book was a great read and had an excellent use of dialogue!
August 17, 2013
Beneath the beautiful artwork on the book lies the riveting and fascinating world of Aleria "Ali" Hayes with traditional vampires navigating the modern world through the lens of their rooted in actual historical facts society. Robin Woods has created a fictional world that exists within the confines of our real one. Developing her vampire world from real stories from multiple sources draws the reader into the story, particularly for those with an inclination toward historical facts. Reading the connections the author has created from history is a fascinating pleasure. Though I tend to shy away from books with vampires (they tend to make me groan/irritate me to no end), this one gripped itself into a plot that wasn't overly "lovey dovey". The events in the story unfold from a source that is beyond that, although there is still a sprinkling of love for the romantic in all of us. Woods developed a main character who refuses to be a Mary-Sue and sit back and watch. Ali wishes to be involved in changing her story, and the story of those around her. Like every good book, there is a point toward the end you will hit, and not be able to put the book down, with a climax worth reading to.
January 26, 2016
I don't know much about Buffy (because I never liked it), but this seemed like it was heavily borrowing from Buffy. More to the degree of "ripping off" Buffy than "inspired by" Buffy. It had Watchers. It had Slayers, born-not-made. Slayers work with Watchers. They are, of course, watching and slaying Vampires.
Seems like there might be a vaguely interesting Celtic mythology angle that will be explored in the sequels.
But I doubt I'll be reading them. Main character is Mary Sue ish already. And I'm pretty sick of paranormal romance that tries to pretend it's Inspired By Great Literature by making an obvious point of having the main character read Shakespeare or whatever for school and continuously draw parallels between events in her life and this book she just read, maybe you've heard of it...
Seems like there might be a vaguely interesting Celtic mythology angle that will be explored in the sequels.
But I doubt I'll be reading them. Main character is Mary Sue ish already. And I'm pretty sick of paranormal romance that tries to pretend it's Inspired By Great Literature by making an obvious point of having the main character read Shakespeare or whatever for school and continuously draw parallels between events in her life and this book she just read, maybe you've heard of it...
April 1, 2013
In general, I always had a distaste for vampires/immortals, especially since the last 5-6 years of BS playing in the theaters. So I was a little hesitant to picking up the book at 1st, but gave it a chance, read the whole book and love it. The 2 pluses for me was (1) detail and (2) romance. I hate the "I'm bewildered by you'"/instant love that happens in allot of books like this, and Robin did a really good job pacing/developing relationships. When I think to myself, "What do I remember from the Unintended?", it's the details with ancient history/metaphors/allusions. Since the unintended is the 1st out of the trilogy, its loaded with exposition, so when reflecting on it just reminds me of "the past" and gives kind of a ancient nostalgic feel.
April 21, 2016
I would give this book a 3.5 stars. I really enjoyed the first half of the book, but the second half fell short for me. The second half felt rushed and that it wasn't allowed to fully develop. I like the books I read to have a little more "discovery" in them, whereas it felt as if I was being told one thing after another like I was being lectured in class in the second half of the book. The climax of the book was also a little short of my hopes. I think the story idea is solid and I get the feeling that the author has much more in store for us in future books. I will definitely read the next book in the series.
January 22, 2012
I have never enjoyed reading and when I say NEVER I mean I've only read THREE books cover to cover in my lifetime, The Unintended being one of them. This book hits every aspect of a 'keep you on your toes wanting more cant read fast enough' kind of story. The author, Robin Woods, did a great job pulling true historical facts into the story without it getting boring. I felt smarter after reading this book! Most of all I LOVED the love story that developed as I got further into the book. It took me into a fantasy world that I didnt want to leave. Thank goodness the story is not over!
November 28, 2013
As the first book on the Watcher Series, The Unintended is an interesting introduction that describes each character with precision and keeps you in tune with the events that occur. Told from Aleria's point of view, she goes into the detail that a normal person would normally notice. This book is also the starting point of a romance triangle between her life long friend Joshua, the new kid in town Bowen, and herself. I guarantee that you will hang onto every word and be devastated when it's over.
May 31, 2016
Someone recommended these books to me and told me about the free sample Woods has on her website. So I figured "why not" and read that sample. Of course it ended in a HUGE cliffhanger, which meant I had to finish it. So I borrowed it from a friend and have officially read all of her books as of last week. I would highly recommend this series to people who love fantasy, amazing world-building, and bomb female leads. Plus you con't go wrong with vampires.
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