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Through the Lens #1
Through the Lens
Being a twin isn’t all that bad, nor is it all that good. Being the fat twin makes things a little worse. Seventeen year old, Jessa Shelby has been all but ignored. Trimmed down, but not skinny like her sister, she has decided to make her mark in her final year in high school.
Things begin anew the summer before her senior year when she meets Ethan Hart, a super hot boy with a twisted past. Unfortunately, he has a girlfriend. Relegated to friend status with Ethan, she turns her eyes on football jock, Josh Macon, whose crush worthy too. No longer the ‘fat girl’, Josh seems to be interested in her too.
Spending more and more time with Ethan causes unexpected complications and she finds herself falling for the wrong boy. Josh is sweet but wants more than she can give. His warning about Ethan’s past may have come too late. And gasping for air with a noose around her neck, she has to wonder if trust came at a very high price.
Things begin anew the summer before her senior year when she meets Ethan Hart, a super hot boy with a twisted past. Unfortunately, he has a girlfriend. Relegated to friend status with Ethan, she turns her eyes on football jock, Josh Macon, whose crush worthy too. No longer the ‘fat girl’, Josh seems to be interested in her too.
Spending more and more time with Ethan causes unexpected complications and she finds herself falling for the wrong boy. Josh is sweet but wants more than she can give. His warning about Ethan’s past may have come too late. And gasping for air with a noose around her neck, she has to wonder if trust came at a very high price.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 22, 2012
9 people are currently reading
1625 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Dermott
21 books495 followersShannon first love was reading, diving into other realities to explore and brave new worlds. To share her writing is the best experience of all. She writes both young adult, new adult and adult fiction. When Shannon isn't writing she loves to shop and watch horror movies that make turning out the lights seem like a stupid idea. You can explore more about her at her website www.shannondermott.com. She can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and her blog www.shannondermott.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 25, 2014
Quick review:
Cover: Pretty
Rating: R
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: Intriguing, left me wanting more
Characters: Solid
Plot: A flashback at the point of death
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? N/A???
Recommend: Sure
Book Boyfriend: Ethan
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
A story of a girl who changed her life and with that came other changes she may or may not be ready for. Interesting story with interesting characters. A lot of questions still hang at the end even though there is a HEA. Hoping for a sequel.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: Pretty
Rating: R
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: Intriguing, left me wanting more
Characters: Solid
Plot: A flashback at the point of death
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? N/A???
Recommend: Sure
Book Boyfriend: Ethan
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
A story of a girl who changed her life and with that came other changes she may or may not be ready for. Interesting story with interesting characters. A lot of questions still hang at the end even though there is a HEA. Hoping for a sequel.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
January 9, 2013
01/09/13 - I reread this book last night and I have changed my rating to 4 1/2 solid stars. (My review from last month is below.) It was better the second time around even though I knew who the attacker was and how the relationships were going to go. This is just one of those books that is a jewel to me.
12/13/12- 3 1/2 to 4 stars. The rating because of the writing in certain points of the book. BUT (and this is a BIG BUT), I don't want this to turn people away from this book. I recommend this book. The reason I am giving it 3 1/2 - 4 stars is in some places, the writing was blah, but the overall story was great. At 72%, I could not put it down. And the Epilogue, 16 hours after finishing the book, I am still thinking about it. The Epilogue/ending was worth reading the whole book. It was so true as to how two 18 year olds view their relationship. I was in tears knowing, "yes, that is how it is." And it truly redeemed the main character, Jessa, as a smart girl. Even though in parts of the book, I thought she was a little blah and immature, but at 72%, around prom time, something clicks because she becomes a different girl. I just love her thoughts in the Epilogue. One thing I must say about myself is that the Epilogue can make or break a book for me. It made the book for me.
When I had to stop reading, I could not wait to go back to the book even, as I mentioned, the writing was okay, it was the story that kept me going.
First, the book starts with a prologue with Jessa who has a camera cord around her neck. We don't know who this "criminal" is so you go through the book trying to find out who will try to hurt her. But that is not what the entire book is about. No, it is about Jessa, her friends, a long time love interest, Josh, who never noticed her until she lost weight and then there is Ethan, a boy who she meets the summer before her senior year in high school. Jenna is 17 going on 18 and has never had a boyfriend because of her previous weight problem so you have to understand her immaturity when it comes to boys. She had never dated ever before Josh and Ethan. Another annoying thing about her was that she had to tell her friends every aspect of her life.
To be honest, I would have never have picked up this book if my friend did not tell me to read it and lent it to me. I felt obligated to read it at that point. I sent her a huge thank you last night when I was done. I have no regrets reading it.
I emailed the author to ask if there would be a sequel and she replied "most likely yes" with the book written in the guy's POV that Jessa ended up choosing. A BIG SIGH*** You will hate him at first, but then you will LOVE him.
I will be the first one to buy that sequel. I can not wait and I hope that Shannon Dermott does not change her mind writing it. If she does, I will BEG her to just give me a few pages because I will have to know what happens to this couple. That Epilogue was that awesome!!!
Enjoy this great YA book.
12/13/12- 3 1/2 to 4 stars. The rating because of the writing in certain points of the book. BUT (and this is a BIG BUT), I don't want this to turn people away from this book. I recommend this book. The reason I am giving it 3 1/2 - 4 stars is in some places, the writing was blah, but the overall story was great. At 72%, I could not put it down. And the Epilogue, 16 hours after finishing the book, I am still thinking about it. The Epilogue/ending was worth reading the whole book. It was so true as to how two 18 year olds view their relationship. I was in tears knowing, "yes, that is how it is." And it truly redeemed the main character, Jessa, as a smart girl. Even though in parts of the book, I thought she was a little blah and immature, but at 72%, around prom time, something clicks because she becomes a different girl. I just love her thoughts in the Epilogue. One thing I must say about myself is that the Epilogue can make or break a book for me. It made the book for me.
When I had to stop reading, I could not wait to go back to the book even, as I mentioned, the writing was okay, it was the story that kept me going.
First, the book starts with a prologue with Jessa who has a camera cord around her neck. We don't know who this "criminal" is so you go through the book trying to find out who will try to hurt her. But that is not what the entire book is about. No, it is about Jessa, her friends, a long time love interest, Josh, who never noticed her until she lost weight and then there is Ethan, a boy who she meets the summer before her senior year in high school. Jenna is 17 going on 18 and has never had a boyfriend because of her previous weight problem so you have to understand her immaturity when it comes to boys. She had never dated ever before Josh and Ethan. Another annoying thing about her was that she had to tell her friends every aspect of her life.
To be honest, I would have never have picked up this book if my friend did not tell me to read it and lent it to me. I felt obligated to read it at that point. I sent her a huge thank you last night when I was done. I have no regrets reading it.
I emailed the author to ask if there would be a sequel and she replied "most likely yes" with the book written in the guy's POV that Jessa ended up choosing. A BIG SIGH*** You will hate him at first, but then you will LOVE him.
I will be the first one to buy that sequel. I can not wait and I hope that Shannon Dermott does not change her mind writing it. If she does, I will BEG her to just give me a few pages because I will have to know what happens to this couple. That Epilogue was that awesome!!!
Enjoy this great YA book.
March 1, 2013
When Shannon released a contemporary novel, while not my regular read, I knew I'd have to read it. I love how she writes romance in her Cambion series, and having been a beta reader for the first book in her new series, Remember, I knew she'd done a great job there too.
We're led into the story knowing that Jessa has just lost weight, having been the fat twin. She's not like her identical twin Jenna, who is beautiful and part of the popular crowd. Jessa doesn't see herself as beautiful and prefers to just stick with her two best friends. She lacks the confidence of her sister and so does nothing about her crust on Josh, one of the popular guys at school, who used to date her sister.
With nothing better to do one weekend, she helps her dad clean out the attic and comes across an old camera. She heads out to take some photographs, not realising that this is about to change her life. While snapping away at a local park, she suddenly comes across a gorgeous guy sitting on a bench, lost in thought and begins snapping photos of him. When he notices, he takes her into the Butterfly Museum where he works and allows her to take pictures there.
Before she knows it, she has a job and two new friends, Ethan and his girlfriend Allie. Bummer, because Jessa has a major crush on Ethan but really likes Allie too so has to keep reminding herself that he's her friends boyfriend.
Things change one night, when Jessa spots an anklet on Ethan's leg, and immediately jumps to conclusions causing them to have a falling out. So when her old crush, Josh, starts showing an interest in her, she decides to give it a go.
This book had a thriller mystery kind of feel to it. Plenty of suspense and I was on the edge of my seat while reading. I really enjoyed the romance, as I had expected to and the characters were well written and awesome. Ethan = swooning.....It wasn't predictable at all as I really couldn't figure out the direction that this book was going to take, every turn of the page left me anticipating something awful happening.
The only negative thing I would have to say about this book is that I felt the ending to be a bit rushed. I felt it could have been played out a bit more with more detail. It did however, end well, and realistically. I can't wait for the next book, Broken Lens, which continues on but is written from Ethan's POV, while he's away at college.
We're led into the story knowing that Jessa has just lost weight, having been the fat twin. She's not like her identical twin Jenna, who is beautiful and part of the popular crowd. Jessa doesn't see herself as beautiful and prefers to just stick with her two best friends. She lacks the confidence of her sister and so does nothing about her crust on Josh, one of the popular guys at school, who used to date her sister.
With nothing better to do one weekend, she helps her dad clean out the attic and comes across an old camera. She heads out to take some photographs, not realising that this is about to change her life. While snapping away at a local park, she suddenly comes across a gorgeous guy sitting on a bench, lost in thought and begins snapping photos of him. When he notices, he takes her into the Butterfly Museum where he works and allows her to take pictures there.
Before she knows it, she has a job and two new friends, Ethan and his girlfriend Allie. Bummer, because Jessa has a major crush on Ethan but really likes Allie too so has to keep reminding herself that he's her friends boyfriend.
Things change one night, when Jessa spots an anklet on Ethan's leg, and immediately jumps to conclusions causing them to have a falling out. So when her old crush, Josh, starts showing an interest in her, she decides to give it a go.
This book had a thriller mystery kind of feel to it. Plenty of suspense and I was on the edge of my seat while reading. I really enjoyed the romance, as I had expected to and the characters were well written and awesome. Ethan = swooning.....It wasn't predictable at all as I really couldn't figure out the direction that this book was going to take, every turn of the page left me anticipating something awful happening.
The only negative thing I would have to say about this book is that I felt the ending to be a bit rushed. I felt it could have been played out a bit more with more detail. It did however, end well, and realistically. I can't wait for the next book, Broken Lens, which continues on but is written from Ethan's POV, while he's away at college.
January 5, 2013
Oh man oh man. I loved this book. Thank you so much to Christine and her fabulous review. I had read the synopsis of this book and written it off - but I'm so glad I changed my mind.
This was such a great mix - wonderful YA romance with a heroine that I actually liked (and didn't act stupid! Loved Jess!) two hot love interests (that didn't turn into a real love triangle), just enough drama and angst to keep it interesting, and a mystery thrown in too.
I was really impressed by how well fleshed out all the characters were, including all the secondary characters. There were no "fill-in" roles - everyone was very three demential. I loved that Jess was a very "real" teenager. She had her flaws, but they never became overwhelming. The love interests weren't perfect either, and while at times I wasn't thrilled with either one of them, by the end I liked them both, and honestly wouldn't mind if the boy she didn't choose got his own book someday
The mystery was great too - this is first a romance - but the subplot brought and additional dimension to the story. It was like a low level hum in the back of my brain while I was reading, and it kept me on edge.
My only beef was the ending. It's not a cliffhanger - but I would have liked a little more confident resolution. I am beyond thrilled that the author is planning a second book. I think I would have been way more upset if I didn't know that.
All in all - fabulous story- highly recommended to anyone who is a YA reader.
This was such a great mix - wonderful YA romance with a heroine that I actually liked (and didn't act stupid! Loved Jess!) two hot love interests (that didn't turn into a real love triangle), just enough drama and angst to keep it interesting, and a mystery thrown in too.
I was really impressed by how well fleshed out all the characters were, including all the secondary characters. There were no "fill-in" roles - everyone was very three demential. I loved that Jess was a very "real" teenager. She had her flaws, but they never became overwhelming. The love interests weren't perfect either, and while at times I wasn't thrilled with either one of them, by the end I liked them both, and honestly wouldn't mind if the boy she didn't choose got his own book someday
The mystery was great too - this is first a romance - but the subplot brought and additional dimension to the story. It was like a low level hum in the back of my brain while I was reading, and it kept me on edge.
My only beef was the ending. It's not a cliffhanger - but I would have liked a little more confident resolution. I am beyond thrilled that the author is planning a second book. I think I would have been way more upset if I didn't know that.
All in all - fabulous story- highly recommended to anyone who is a YA reader.
February 17, 2013
This really took my by surprise. I've loved many of the other books written by Shannon Dermott, so when I saw this new title available (last year) I bought it with some of my Christmas Amazon gift cards. I'm so glad I did, and wished I hadn't waited so long to read it.
It is a less steamy YA story, revolving around Jessa (Jessica) an identical twin that recently lost weight and is finding herself, trying to fit in to her surroundings. That description really doesn't do this book any favors, does it. I'll do better- but the bulk of the review will have to wait until I'm a little better and have more time.
The story kept me guessing in many respects. While there are more archetypical elements (the 'bad' boy, the 'movie' star) I really felt each character broke out of the mold assigned to them. It's like a favorite, soft flannel, you put it on because you know it's comfortable and warm; the seemingly stereotypical characters are relaxing, and draw you into the story.
I really loved some of the characters, Allie totally gave me that 'celebrity' thrill.
It's like an updated, good Sweet Valley High meets ... I don't know maybe Dawson's Creek and maybe a dash of old school Christopher Pike. I may not be able to define it well, but it was good. I'll actually give it 4½♥'s.
It is a less steamy YA story, revolving around Jessa (Jessica) an identical twin that recently lost weight and is finding herself, trying to fit in to her surroundings. That description really doesn't do this book any favors, does it. I'll do better- but the bulk of the review will have to wait until I'm a little better and have more time.
The story kept me guessing in many respects. While there are more archetypical elements (the 'bad' boy, the 'movie' star) I really felt each character broke out of the mold assigned to them. It's like a favorite, soft flannel, you put it on because you know it's comfortable and warm; the seemingly stereotypical characters are relaxing, and draw you into the story.
I really loved some of the characters, Allie totally gave me that 'celebrity' thrill.
It's like an updated, good Sweet Valley High meets ... I don't know maybe Dawson's Creek and maybe a dash of old school Christopher Pike. I may not be able to define it well, but it was good. I'll actually give it 4½♥'s.
November 26, 2012
This is Shannon’s first standalone novel and I was lucky enough to beta read Through the Lens before publication. I’m so thrilled that it’s been published because now I can write about how much I loved it!
The story is about Jessa Shelby, a high school senior whom is used to living in her sister’s shadow. Jessa used to be the so called “fat twin” while her sister Jenna has always been slim, the popular cheerleader that goes to all the parties, and has the cute boyfriend. Jessa, now that she has slimmed down, is determined that her senior year is going to be different. One day while helping her Dad clean out the attic, she finds his old camera and he shows her how to use it. Using the camera to take candid pictures is how she meets Ethan Hart, the hot guy with a bad boy past.
I like Jessa’s character and I can really relate to her and liked that she wasn’t portrayed as being “perfect”. While I don’t have a twin, I know what it’s like to have a sibling that’s always been thin, popular, and pretty, while I was always considered the fat, shy, and “bookish” one. Ethan is really hot and Shannon knows how to write hot guys like no one else! (Please oh please give us some Ethan POVs Shannon!) If you’re a fan of her Cambion series you already know what I mean about how yummy her bad boys are!
I loved the ending…..but maybe, just maybe there might be a sequel somewhere down the line (hint, hint)? I can totally see a new adult sequel for Through the Lens!
The story is about Jessa Shelby, a high school senior whom is used to living in her sister’s shadow. Jessa used to be the so called “fat twin” while her sister Jenna has always been slim, the popular cheerleader that goes to all the parties, and has the cute boyfriend. Jessa, now that she has slimmed down, is determined that her senior year is going to be different. One day while helping her Dad clean out the attic, she finds his old camera and he shows her how to use it. Using the camera to take candid pictures is how she meets Ethan Hart, the hot guy with a bad boy past.
I like Jessa’s character and I can really relate to her and liked that she wasn’t portrayed as being “perfect”. While I don’t have a twin, I know what it’s like to have a sibling that’s always been thin, popular, and pretty, while I was always considered the fat, shy, and “bookish” one. Ethan is really hot and Shannon knows how to write hot guys like no one else! (Please oh please give us some Ethan POVs Shannon!) If you’re a fan of her Cambion series you already know what I mean about how yummy her bad boys are!
I loved the ending…..but maybe, just maybe there might be a sequel somewhere down the line (hint, hint)? I can totally see a new adult sequel for Through the Lens!
November 26, 2012
love this book. cute fast read i couldnt put down. i loved the main characters and the ending was super cute.
wondering if there will be a second book?
wondering if there will be a second book?
November 30, 2012
A great book. I loved all the characters. I was shocked at how I had thought Allie was the one who was strangling Jessa. I had no clue until right before the reveal who was doing it. I could not believe Josh left Jessa because of a stupid misunderstanding. With sisters like Jenna you really don't need enemies. I cannot image a sister like that. There were so many relationships in play during the book it make me want to know more about how their lives are going. I want a sequel. I just want more and more. So many questions need to be answered.
1. Will Ethan and Jessa make it through college together?
2. Will Allie be ok and be a big movie star?
3. Will Jenna and Jessa ever really be close again?
4. Will Josh end up with Jenna or continue to try to get Jessa?
5. What will happen with Bradley and Madison? Will Bradley find and fall in love with a guy? Will Madison ever love / love Bradley?
I like the fact that the author Shannon Dermott never really has secondary characters. I always feel so connected to the people in her books like I know them personally. There are always little moments that could have been left out and still it would be a good book but Shannon adds them to make it all real. Like when Jessa and Kyle squabble in school. I thought that is such a real simple moment that makes you understand sibling relationships.
Also I could not put the book down. I was even trying to read while decorating my sons 18th birthday cake. My ereader had a taste of buttercream frosting too.
1. Will Ethan and Jessa make it through college together?
2. Will Allie be ok and be a big movie star?
3. Will Jenna and Jessa ever really be close again?
4. Will Josh end up with Jenna or continue to try to get Jessa?
5. What will happen with Bradley and Madison? Will Bradley find and fall in love with a guy? Will Madison ever love / love Bradley?
I like the fact that the author Shannon Dermott never really has secondary characters. I always feel so connected to the people in her books like I know them personally. There are always little moments that could have been left out and still it would be a good book but Shannon adds them to make it all real. Like when Jessa and Kyle squabble in school. I thought that is such a real simple moment that makes you understand sibling relationships.
Also I could not put the book down. I was even trying to read while decorating my sons 18th birthday cake. My ereader had a taste of buttercream frosting too.
November 29, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. Shannon has done it again! It would have been a five star rating, but there were words missing in some areas, or the wrong word written. It was a little distracting, but not enough for me to stop reading the book. Overall, great job! It kept me interested. I wasn't looking at my kindle every 10 minutes to see if I was done. It had romance, humor, and suspense. I would definitely recommend this if you are looking for a good read.
November 29, 2012
This was a wonderful turn pager, read it within 6 hers. Loved the story between & all the characters within, especially Jessa & bad boy Ethan. Please read! You will not be disappointed!
December 14, 2012
Please say there will be book two...
December 15, 2012
I was intrigued from the prologue. I absolutely love Shannon Dermott's Cambion Series and couldn't wait to see what she was going to do with her newest novel, Through the Lens.
So much about this story really hit home. I loved the emphasis on Jessa's struggle with her weight. So many girls go through this at some point in their lives, feeling like the fat friend (including myself). I especially loved that while Jessa was aware of her weight and worked hard to keep it off, she didn't spend an excessive amount of time obsessing over it. In a way she inspired me to keep working out hard.
**MILD SPOILERS AHEAD**
When we first meet Ethan, he doesn't say much but he exudes this confidence and charisma that makes him appealing on many levels. I want to know his secrets and I want to know him on oh, so many delicious levels! He's strong, sexy, mysterious, and gorgeous but holy cow is he a man whore! Normally this is a big turn off but he makes it seem like it's ok. I love how he's always there to rescue Jessa when she needs it and even when she doesn't. He really is her knight in shining armor. I can see what he sees in Jessa though. She's innocent, understanding, and compassionate and those are things Ethan really needs especially when dealing with his painful and haunted past. He has a sensitive injured side and Jessa is exactly what he needs to help him heal.
I also felt like I was flashing back to high school with the wild unchaperoned parties full of underage drinkers and sexual tension! I can relate to Jessa not only through her struggle with her weight but also her rapidly developing skill with a camera as well as living a secret life. I was a good girl, the one my parents trusted and never questioned, but I'll admit that I told lies and crossed a few boundaries in my youth. Luckily my discretion's were never discovered!
This was a very sweet and realistic story. I loved the characters and their relationships with each other. I also, for the most part, liked the ending. What I didn't like was the realism in the end. I want Ethan and Jessa to stay together always but the possibility of growing apart is always there, especially when attending two different schools. I'm content in my world where they live happily ever after. :) I don't want a follow on story because in my mind Ethan and Jessa do stay together!
So much about this story really hit home. I loved the emphasis on Jessa's struggle with her weight. So many girls go through this at some point in their lives, feeling like the fat friend (including myself). I especially loved that while Jessa was aware of her weight and worked hard to keep it off, she didn't spend an excessive amount of time obsessing over it. In a way she inspired me to keep working out hard.
**MILD SPOILERS AHEAD**
When we first meet Ethan, he doesn't say much but he exudes this confidence and charisma that makes him appealing on many levels. I want to know his secrets and I want to know him on oh, so many delicious levels! He's strong, sexy, mysterious, and gorgeous but holy cow is he a man whore! Normally this is a big turn off but he makes it seem like it's ok. I love how he's always there to rescue Jessa when she needs it and even when she doesn't. He really is her knight in shining armor. I can see what he sees in Jessa though. She's innocent, understanding, and compassionate and those are things Ethan really needs especially when dealing with his painful and haunted past. He has a sensitive injured side and Jessa is exactly what he needs to help him heal.
I also felt like I was flashing back to high school with the wild unchaperoned parties full of underage drinkers and sexual tension! I can relate to Jessa not only through her struggle with her weight but also her rapidly developing skill with a camera as well as living a secret life. I was a good girl, the one my parents trusted and never questioned, but I'll admit that I told lies and crossed a few boundaries in my youth. Luckily my discretion's were never discovered!
This was a very sweet and realistic story. I loved the characters and their relationships with each other. I also, for the most part, liked the ending. What I didn't like was the realism in the end. I want Ethan and Jessa to stay together always but the possibility of growing apart is always there, especially when attending two different schools. I'm content in my world where they live happily ever after. :) I don't want a follow on story because in my mind Ethan and Jessa do stay together!
January 12, 2015
This is a difficult book to rate. I really liked the beginning and I really hated the second half. So I've split the review into two sections.
First Half of the Book
I enjoyed the dynamics of this book. There's a love triangle, but Jessa really likes Ethan's girlfriend Allie. Allie is a beautiful tv-star and she's the sweetest thing ever.
And the more and more I hung out with her [Allie], the more I liked her. Ethan became further and further off limits.
No one, including Jessa wants this gorgeous couple splitting up. That's what makes it interesting.
The other thing is Jessa's BFFs, Madison and Bradley who are dating. Jessa can get caught in between their love life when they confide in her. Jessa really has to juggle being honest with each of them and protecting their secrets too.
Jessa reckons she's the plain twin. She doesn't have much self-esteem. She keeps up a steady patter of insecure remarks about herself and how everyone hot is out of her league.
On the plus side, I loved how close she is to her dad.
While she's all gaga around Ethan, I liked it when she loosened up and started having fun. She's a pretty cool chick when she's relaxed. It didn't take long for her sass to win me over.
I was a bit bothered when Ethan started turning on the cheese way too early. Still, it was nice that he could be reasonably open about liking Jessa. He's quite an edgy character and a bit moody, but not in a bad way. His unpredictability appealed to me. I was never quite sure how he would react or respond.
I liked how he was adorably protective over Jessa. And he's unbearably hot. The author communicated that to me most efficiently. =)
2nd Half
What the hell is going on? The author goes down so many rabbit trails the storyline started to lose its focus.
I started getting tired of the story. When I get bored, I get mean. I thought it was hilarious when Jessa breaks up with another because he calls her by her twin sister's name. Ha!
Still, Jessa is a good character. Sensible and sensitive most of the time.
And that ending? WTF big time.
First Half of the Book
I enjoyed the dynamics of this book. There's a love triangle, but Jessa really likes Ethan's girlfriend Allie. Allie is a beautiful tv-star and she's the sweetest thing ever.
And the more and more I hung out with her [Allie], the more I liked her. Ethan became further and further off limits.
No one, including Jessa wants this gorgeous couple splitting up. That's what makes it interesting.
The other thing is Jessa's BFFs, Madison and Bradley who are dating. Jessa can get caught in between their love life when they confide in her. Jessa really has to juggle being honest with each of them and protecting their secrets too.
Jessa reckons she's the plain twin. She doesn't have much self-esteem. She keeps up a steady patter of insecure remarks about herself and how everyone hot is out of her league.
On the plus side, I loved how close she is to her dad.
While she's all gaga around Ethan, I liked it when she loosened up and started having fun. She's a pretty cool chick when she's relaxed. It didn't take long for her sass to win me over.
I was a bit bothered when Ethan started turning on the cheese way too early. Still, it was nice that he could be reasonably open about liking Jessa. He's quite an edgy character and a bit moody, but not in a bad way. His unpredictability appealed to me. I was never quite sure how he would react or respond.
I liked how he was adorably protective over Jessa. And he's unbearably hot. The author communicated that to me most efficiently. =)
2nd Half
What the hell is going on? The author goes down so many rabbit trails the storyline started to lose its focus.
I started getting tired of the story. When I get bored, I get mean. I thought it was hilarious when Jessa breaks up with another because he calls her by her twin sister's name. Ha!
Still, Jessa is a good character. Sensible and sensitive most of the time.
And that ending? WTF big time.
December 2, 2012
This book pulled me in and didn't let me go until I finished it. I was guessing and second guessing all through the book as to who was pulling the camera cord. I didn't see the culprit coming until after it was revealed.
The characters were great and I really enjoyed Ethan and Jessa. The dynamics between Jessa and Jenna, Jessa and her friends, Jessa and Josh, and Jessa and Ethan were all very believable and very easy to relate to.
I also loved that Jessa's parents were involved in her life and weren't missing or just back characters to an otherwise teen who does anything. In a lot of YA books, the parents go missing so the teen can play out their story. This book was not that way and it was refreshing to see a main character mess up and have to pay for that with parental supervision.
There were some typing errors but nothing major. Overall a really good read that had me completely hooked.
The characters were great and I really enjoyed Ethan and Jessa. The dynamics between Jessa and Jenna, Jessa and her friends, Jessa and Josh, and Jessa and Ethan were all very believable and very easy to relate to.
I also loved that Jessa's parents were involved in her life and weren't missing or just back characters to an otherwise teen who does anything. In a lot of YA books, the parents go missing so the teen can play out their story. This book was not that way and it was refreshing to see a main character mess up and have to pay for that with parental supervision.
There were some typing errors but nothing major. Overall a really good read that had me completely hooked.
July 26, 2013
One of my friends named Michele mentioned to me this Author.I thought I give a try.And I'm looking some book Click for full review
December 10, 2012
3.5 stars
Liked this, does need some editing but overall good story and I'll be looking out for the sequel.
Liked this, does need some editing but overall good story and I'll be looking out for the sequel.
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September 25, 2013Audio book is available.
November 28, 2012
Through the Lens is about a girl named Jessa who has recently lost weight. She has a twin sister, Jenna, who everyone always considered the pretty one since she was significantly smaller than Jessa. Jessa's dealing with a few issues aside from just her weight loss - she's suddenly getting attention from guys, her best friends starting dating each other and she often feels like the third wheel and she doesn't have many friends otherwise.
While helping her dad clean out their attic she stumbles across her dad's old camera and from there develops a love of photography. The story unfolds when she meets Ethan and gets a job where he works. Ethan, of course, is hot and Jessa can't help but be attracted to him. The problem is that Ethan has a girlfriend, Allie, and Jessa ends up growing close to her. Struggling to deal with her feelings for Ethan, Jessa tries her best to keep her relationship with Ethan at a strictly friend-level. On top of this, there's a mystery going on with a friend of Ethan and Allie's that has disappeared and no one knows what happened to her.
I have mixed feelings on this one. I loved the premise but it didn't turn out quite like I expected. The mystery piece of the book was so overshadowed by everything going on in Jessa's life that it definitely played a secondary role. It was mentioned here and there throughout the book and then suddenly in the end, it became the focal point. This part could have totally been left out of the book and nothing would have been lost in terms of the story. It seemed like unnecessary filler in my opinion.
I actually feel like the book had a lot of unnecessary filler or parts that were just included to try and tie things together. .
Overall, I wish the story focused on Ethan and Jessa's relationship and the drama surrounding that (i.e. Josh, Allie, etc). I liked these two characters and didn't think that all the other added drama was needed.
I like Shannon Dermott and really liked Begging for Mercy but I just was not feeling this one.
While helping her dad clean out their attic she stumbles across her dad's old camera and from there develops a love of photography. The story unfolds when she meets Ethan and gets a job where he works. Ethan, of course, is hot and Jessa can't help but be attracted to him. The problem is that Ethan has a girlfriend, Allie, and Jessa ends up growing close to her. Struggling to deal with her feelings for Ethan, Jessa tries her best to keep her relationship with Ethan at a strictly friend-level. On top of this, there's a mystery going on with a friend of Ethan and Allie's that has disappeared and no one knows what happened to her.
I have mixed feelings on this one. I loved the premise but it didn't turn out quite like I expected. The mystery piece of the book was so overshadowed by everything going on in Jessa's life that it definitely played a secondary role. It was mentioned here and there throughout the book and then suddenly in the end, it became the focal point. This part could have totally been left out of the book and nothing would have been lost in terms of the story. It seemed like unnecessary filler in my opinion.
I actually feel like the book had a lot of unnecessary filler or parts that were just included to try and tie things together. .
Overall, I wish the story focused on Ethan and Jessa's relationship and the drama surrounding that (i.e. Josh, Allie, etc). I liked these two characters and didn't think that all the other added drama was needed.
I like Shannon Dermott and really liked Begging for Mercy but I just was not feeling this one.
October 24, 2013
I really enjoyed being in Jessa's head. She's a pretty down to earth girl with a good sense of right and wrong. She is not the typical YA chic and it was refreshing. There is a bite of angst but she does not over dramatize every little detail of her life.
On the other hand...I wish she would have had more conversation with Ethan. I didn't particularly like how the relationship between them developed. She was so meek and quiet that I didn't feel the connection until much later in the book.
What I loved most about Through the Lens is the air of mystery, the thread of the unknown. Even though I pegged the situation fairly early on, I was still interested in how it would all play out.
Shannon Dermott delivered a mature YA story with a level of responsibility and respect. Giving characters with strong moral convictions and pride. She dealt with a few touchy subjects with great maturity.
3.5 Stars
*audio copy given for honest review*
On the other hand...I wish she would have had more conversation with Ethan. I didn't particularly like how the relationship between them developed. She was so meek and quiet that I didn't feel the connection until much later in the book.
What I loved most about Through the Lens is the air of mystery, the thread of the unknown. Even though I pegged the situation fairly early on, I was still interested in how it would all play out.
Shannon Dermott delivered a mature YA story with a level of responsibility and respect. Giving characters with strong moral convictions and pride. She dealt with a few touchy subjects with great maturity.
3.5 Stars
*audio copy given for honest review*
December 23, 2012
Lovely story!!! I really felt in love with characters, setting, and plot. I won’t go to details, just read this and you won’t be disappointed. Just so you know, there is a bad boy! and yes, he is gorgeous and nothing less!
First, it hooked me with an opening prologue that surprises, intrigues and made me want to know more. At stake was Jessa life. We see from the very first page that the protagonist has a great story to be told. I loved it. I think everyone has felt like Jessa. At least, I could relate.
The tile of the book perfectly fit to the story. Truly wonderful book and of course with wonderful cover!
My only complaint is that the ending was told in a rush. The book ended too quickly and I wanted more (it is a good thing right?). I am really curious how their story would go in the future.
First, it hooked me with an opening prologue that surprises, intrigues and made me want to know more. At stake was Jessa life. We see from the very first page that the protagonist has a great story to be told. I loved it. I think everyone has felt like Jessa. At least, I could relate.
The tile of the book perfectly fit to the story. Truly wonderful book and of course with wonderful cover!
My only complaint is that the ending was told in a rush. The book ended too quickly and I wanted more (it is a good thing right?). I am really curious how their story would go in the future.
July 10, 2013
WOW!This book is truly one of the books that I like to call a "Out of my mind' types of books.Like first,Jessa was the person who thinks she doesn't fit in like her sister.But at the end,she's the gossip out of the whole school. This book captures emotional feelings from the characters, betrayal, suspence, and...some inspirations.
Every books tells a lesson even if you don't know it. I think what the author was trying to say was 1)you can be whoever you want to be(when Jessa changed her weight)2)She gave advise when Jessa was talking to Madison about relationships or topics. The ending was so feeled with their depressing sepration but the love they share to each other i truly felt.I love it!(when i heard their's a sequel, i almost died of excitement).
(I have received this book from Goodreads First)
Every books tells a lesson even if you don't know it. I think what the author was trying to say was 1)you can be whoever you want to be(when Jessa changed her weight)2)She gave advise when Jessa was talking to Madison about relationships or topics. The ending was so feeled with their depressing sepration but the love they share to each other i truly felt.I love it!(when i heard their's a sequel, i almost died of excitement).
(I have received this book from Goodreads First)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2017
I received a copy via the publisher on netgalley.
This was a whirlwind,crazy cluster of feelings for me. First off I really was beginning to dislike 75% of the characters throughout the book not a good sign. None were relatable and everyone seemed two deminsional and way too much shadiness. Cheating, lying, underhanded drama you name it this had it. Ethan's character grew on me I knew right off he wasn't a bad guy don't ask me how because everything points to him but honestly that's an ameture thing to do to make you think that way.
I kinda liked this but kinda didn't I don't know I'm rambling I know but still it's hard to write a review for a book I have not to many good things for. A super quick read, drama intense, with an underlying mystery throughout. Mostly relatable for a more teen oriented reader.
This was a whirlwind,crazy cluster of feelings for me. First off I really was beginning to dislike 75% of the characters throughout the book not a good sign. None were relatable and everyone seemed two deminsional and way too much shadiness. Cheating, lying, underhanded drama you name it this had it. Ethan's character grew on me I knew right off he wasn't a bad guy don't ask me how because everything points to him but honestly that's an ameture thing to do to make you think that way.
I kinda liked this but kinda didn't I don't know I'm rambling I know but still it's hard to write a review for a book I have not to many good things for. A super quick read, drama intense, with an underlying mystery throughout. Mostly relatable for a more teen oriented reader.
December 28, 2012
This is a decent book, and it certainly kept me guessing. I liked the characters, and I liked the story. But this book could have used some more editing. There were missing words, missing punctuation, and usage of the wrong forms of words. I personally don't think it takes away from the story too much. It wasn't so bad that I felt like a second grader wrote it, just that it wasn't edited well. What really bugged me was the ending. I like my books to come together in the end, I don't like feeling like I need to use my imagination. They are the author's characters, I want them to tell me where they are going in life. Either this was left open intentionally for a second book, or the ending just really blows for me. It's not necessarily bad, it's just very open.
August 13, 2013
I liked that she was her own person. Although she was a twin she was different. I loved the photography aspect. The camera was an extension of her arm with no training at all. It was natural. She was her fathers daughter. Ethan Ethan Ethan was complex and mysterious all at once. The relationship between him and Allie was complicated and not all together healthy but through the pain they made it through. But now it was time for Ethan to fall for someone that wasn't part of his past. I hated that the author left Allie conclusion so vague. I would've loved to know more about her deal. Hopefully the next book will connect some of the dots for me.
August 25, 2016
There's this part where Jessa is at a party and she finds her 15 y/o brother getting off with a girl he doesn’t know, and then finds her twin sister getting off with her boyfriend. For Kyle, who comes out of a bedroom zipping up his pants followed by a girl who is much older than him, Jessa’s attitude is pretty relaxed. But then when she accidentally interrupts Jenna and her boyfriend of two years, Jessa gets on her high horse and starts talking about how her sister was ‘doing something she will regret’ and then goes on to start slut shaming her on the car ride home. felt like this gives a message that sex has a different meaning to each gender, and I just thought that was a bit weird.
July 12, 2013
This was a spectacular book because it really did keep me guessing. There were times when I thought I knew who the killer was but then something else would happen and I would get confused a little bit because it would throw me off. But I did end up guessing the right person as the killer. Ethan was so sweet and caring and even though the beginning was a little strange I liked how the book ended.
December 30, 2012
Loved this plot & sequence of events. Loved the characters - they're charming & easy to get attached to. The only downfall was the editing - lots of errors that bugged me a tad. Otherwise, I really enjoyed this read. I <3 Shannon's work.
January 1, 2013
I really liked the story but it could have used a better edit. Maybe it was the copy I received on kindle ( I know sometimes the format is messed up ) but there were missing words. Other than that the story was cute and I hope there is a second book! I feel their story isn't complete!
February 23, 2013
This is the most incredible story. I hope you share more stories like this with us.
Will there be a second book in this series?
Will there be a second book in this series?
April 13, 2013
great book!!!!
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