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Prowl Trilogy #1
Prowl
Seventeen-year-old Mackenzie Smith is sent away to spend a boring summer at her grandma's. But then she meets Wesley. He tells her exactly what she wants to hear and has information about her past that no one else knows. It's almost like he can read her mind.
Only Wesley isn't who he seems.
By the time Mackenzie discovers his true identity it may be too late. She's in too deep and he won't let her go. Now Mackenzie must call on the strongest power of all in order to save her life.
Only Wesley isn't who he seems.
By the time Mackenzie discovers his true identity it may be too late. She's in too deep and he won't let her go. Now Mackenzie must call on the strongest power of all in order to save her life.
216 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2012
7 people are currently reading
1031 people want to read
About the author
Amber Garza
53 books1,404 followersAmber Garza has had a passion for the written word since she was a child making books out of notebook paper and staples. Her hobbies include reading and singing. Coffee and wine are her drinks of choice (not necessarily in that order). She writes while blaring music, and talks about her characters like they're real people. She lives with her husband and two kids in Folsom, California, which is also home to another Amber Garza.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 28, 2015
“That night I dreamt of Rhiannon’s Ouija board. A black creature with large sharp talons emerged from the board. His eyes were dark red like the color of blood and his teeth were sharp like razor blades.”
This was a YA paranormal/horror story, about one girl and a vengeful spirit.
Mackenzie was an okay character, but she was a bit harsh on her mother. So what if her mother didn’t want to talk about who Mackenzie’s father was? She was doing her best as a single mother, and Mackenzie didn’t appreciate her sacrifices at all.
The storyline in this started off as Mackenzie going to stay with her grandmother and meeting some fairly weird kids who lived in the area, and then moved on to Mackenzie and a girl using a Ouija board and getting into problems with a dangerous spirit. I did find it quite difficult to stay focused on this story though, as I felt a bit bored.
There was romance, but let’s just say I wasn’t a fan. Things seemed to move very quickly.
The ending to this was okay, but it was clear that the story wasn’t really finished.
6 out of 10
August 23, 2012
Quick review:
Cover: Love the blue
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 3.5
Overall: It was an easy interesting read
Characters: Well done.
Plot: Troubled girl finds acceptance in the least likely place.
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Sure
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Isaac
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
I found this to be an easy read even though the time frame confused me a bit at times. The themes that this book brought to life are so real for many young women. Although it has strong Christian religious themes, I still think PNR fans would enjoy.
To see my full review and likeness of my book boyfriend, check out my blog post.
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: Love the blue
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 3.5
Overall: It was an easy interesting read
Characters: Well done.
Plot: Troubled girl finds acceptance in the least likely place.
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Sure
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Isaac
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
I found this to be an easy read even though the time frame confused me a bit at times. The themes that this book brought to life are so real for many young women. Although it has strong Christian religious themes, I still think PNR fans would enjoy.
To see my full review and likeness of my book boyfriend, check out my blog post.
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
April 1, 2012
This was a captivating novel and to my delight, very well-written. Even though I typically don't like supernatural stories all that much, I thought it would be fun to read a story that is young adult in tone and yet has a different perspective than is often seen in popular culture. Instead of making witchcraft and the occult look enticing and fun, this story shows how serious dabbling with the dark side can be. It also shows the only way out is though Jesus. I loved that.
When it comes to demonic activity, I usually try not to think about it because I know it's real. The way this story played out you can see the oppression in Kenzie's life. Many of the harmful things she'd done to herself were a direct result of her responding to taunts by the enemy of her soul. This was very well portrayed. The conflict was also well done and the romance was amazing. Isaac was a fabulous hero and I could see why Kenzie felt so drawn to him. I also saw how the enemy was trying to keep them apart because Isaac knew the way to freedom from spiritual oppression and the devil's goal is to prowl around and prey on unsuspecting souls. He takes human hurts and capitalizes on it.
Dabbling in the occult is never a good thing. I remember when I was young that a lot of teens did the same thing as Kenzie and her neighbor. I also remember how dark and frightening some of those things could be when the very thing that was attempted happened. Thankfully, I moved away from those things after awhile, but like Kenzie, there was still a time that followed those events where I became a bit self-destructive. I know it was the enemy of our souls trying to destroy me, but God is greater than all of the darkness in the spiritual realm. Prowl does a fantastic job of showing you this.
Again, this was a compelling story and very well-written, plus it had some yummy romantic scenes that are very YA in nature. Isaac was such a tenderhearted hero that I adored him. I'd highly recommend this book as an alternative to popular witch-themed novels and such.
When it comes to demonic activity, I usually try not to think about it because I know it's real. The way this story played out you can see the oppression in Kenzie's life. Many of the harmful things she'd done to herself were a direct result of her responding to taunts by the enemy of her soul. This was very well portrayed. The conflict was also well done and the romance was amazing. Isaac was a fabulous hero and I could see why Kenzie felt so drawn to him. I also saw how the enemy was trying to keep them apart because Isaac knew the way to freedom from spiritual oppression and the devil's goal is to prowl around and prey on unsuspecting souls. He takes human hurts and capitalizes on it.
Dabbling in the occult is never a good thing. I remember when I was young that a lot of teens did the same thing as Kenzie and her neighbor. I also remember how dark and frightening some of those things could be when the very thing that was attempted happened. Thankfully, I moved away from those things after awhile, but like Kenzie, there was still a time that followed those events where I became a bit self-destructive. I know it was the enemy of our souls trying to destroy me, but God is greater than all of the darkness in the spiritual realm. Prowl does a fantastic job of showing you this.
Again, this was a compelling story and very well-written, plus it had some yummy romantic scenes that are very YA in nature. Isaac was such a tenderhearted hero that I adored him. I'd highly recommend this book as an alternative to popular witch-themed novels and such.
August 12, 2012
I Have received this book thanks to the generous providers from "Read it and reap" along with the author who allowed a select few copies free to read.
I would have to say i generally enjoyed Prowl. At moments where Mackenzie and Haley her close friend talk, it feels like the way a regular young teen would talk. Although setting this aside i like how it would involve the subject of religion of good and evil; But it was a bit "predictable" on how the story would turn out. Along those lines i thought the romance between Mackenzie and grandmas neighbor hood hottie was just too quick for my liking.
Its fast pace action, a well suited book if in the mood for a quick read but still want to fill that hunger for a book in little to nothing time.
I would recommend giving PROWL try and i would most definitely want to read the rest of the series!
I would have to say i generally enjoyed Prowl. At moments where Mackenzie and Haley her close friend talk, it feels like the way a regular young teen would talk. Although setting this aside i like how it would involve the subject of religion of good and evil; But it was a bit "predictable" on how the story would turn out. Along those lines i thought the romance between Mackenzie and grandmas neighbor hood hottie was just too quick for my liking.
Its fast pace action, a well suited book if in the mood for a quick read but still want to fill that hunger for a book in little to nothing time.
I would recommend giving PROWL try and i would most definitely want to read the rest of the series!
March 23, 2012
At first Mackenzie is angry that she has to spend her summer at her grandma's house until she breaks up with her boyfriend and decides this will be the perfect way to escape her problems with boys. Little does know that grandma lives right next door to a hottie! She is instantly drawn to the boy next door but hesitates getting to know him because of his religion. She also meets grandma's other neighbor and this girl introduces her to far more dangers than she had at home with boys! She meets Wesley and Wesley is not what you'll expect!
I really enjoyed this book! I wasn't really expecting the dangerous things that Mackenzie dabbles in! I really identified with her though and the way she is desperately searching for love because of her lack of a father. She is naive and determined to figure out who her father is with the help of Wesley no matter what the cost!
The spiritual aspects of this book were pretty good, though I would have liked a little more depth in to the battle between good and evil but overall I was happy with how it progressed. I think us Christians a lot of time forget the battle of evil we face and how deceptive Satan really is and this book gives you a fun way of addressing that issue!
Most young adult readers will probably enjoy this easy read and I think it would especially benefit young Christian girls and youth leaders like myself to remind us of what teens go through spiritually
I received this book free from the author in exchange for my personal and honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book! I wasn't really expecting the dangerous things that Mackenzie dabbles in! I really identified with her though and the way she is desperately searching for love because of her lack of a father. She is naive and determined to figure out who her father is with the help of Wesley no matter what the cost!
The spiritual aspects of this book were pretty good, though I would have liked a little more depth in to the battle between good and evil but overall I was happy with how it progressed. I think us Christians a lot of time forget the battle of evil we face and how deceptive Satan really is and this book gives you a fun way of addressing that issue!
Most young adult readers will probably enjoy this easy read and I think it would especially benefit young Christian girls and youth leaders like myself to remind us of what teens go through spiritually
I received this book free from the author in exchange for my personal and honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
July 7, 2012
What an awesome story! I read through it pretty quickly, especially since lately, it takes me forever to get through books. Kenzie is a girl with a past, longing to start over when she spends the summer at her Grandma’s house. What she finds besides friendship and answers to her heritage, is a darkness that clings to her soul in more ways than one. Can she overcome this demon of sorts? Or will this be the end of her, literally?
This has some Christian themes in it and I think that the story interweaved them easily, keeping the suspense and mystery in perfect harmony. I found myself glued to the pages (my kindle actually) to see what was going to happen to Kenzie next. This girl has a knack for trouble. But I was intrigued on how she handled things and how it ended at the end.
Definitely is left open for the next book, I can’t wait to read it. A great YA series, loved it!
This has some Christian themes in it and I think that the story interweaved them easily, keeping the suspense and mystery in perfect harmony. I found myself glued to the pages (my kindle actually) to see what was going to happen to Kenzie next. This girl has a knack for trouble. But I was intrigued on how she handled things and how it ended at the end.
Definitely is left open for the next book, I can’t wait to read it. A great YA series, loved it!
July 18, 2012
I loved this book! The characters drew me in and I could not wait to see what would happen next! I read it on my flight to Kansas and will read Entice on the way back! I can't wait! The man next to me will try to talk to me. . .or read over my shoulder. . .Will keep you posted!
August 13, 2012
Prowl is very much a Christian YA novel and as one, I think it would be very well received among teens in Christian reading clubs. It is a quick read that is well paced. There is a strong message throughout; but there is also enough story and character development to keep a teen reader engaged. The story is carefully thought out and for Christian teens, I would recommend it and probably give it four stars. However, as just a novel (without the message)I would probably rate it as only okay. Outside of its target audience, I think readers might not enjoy it so much. I think they might find it preachy.
I did have a bit of a problem with the story synopsis. I think it's a little misleading and probably should have a few more details added. The story is in first person, told by Kenzie, a teen girl with issues. She's from a single parent home and although not exactly neglected, she's been left to fend for herself without parental guidance. She's made bad choices and mistakes. When she goes to spend the summer with her grandmother in California, Kenzie has an opportunity to meet new people and be in more of stable family-like environment. Kenzie immediately meets Isaac, the cute Christian boy next door, and Rhiannon, the non Christian girl on the other next door side. Kenzie is a little divided between her two new friends and spends some time with Isaac (doing wholesome fun activities) and a little time with Rhiannon (learning about her alternative activities like playing with a Ouija board). Kenzie doesn't exactly 'meet' Wesley and that's where I have difficulty with the novel's blurb. Who Wesley is and how he factors into Kenzie's life are somewhat more complicated. I won't go into it because I don't want to spoiler it for anyone.
Again, as Christian YA reading goes, it's an engaging story. For it to appeal to a more general YA audience however, the author would have to make changes - but that would probably defeat the author's intended purpose. I do think that expanding some parts of the novel - like actually delving into the characters' psyches a little more could make the story better and broaden the audience a little - even without toning down the message. Going into Kenzie's disorder in greater depth and giving Isaac more of a personality (besides making him less perfect) would also be helpful. It would make the characters a little easier to relate to than they are currently. For its target audience, 4 stars. For a general audience it's okay.
I did have a bit of a problem with the story synopsis. I think it's a little misleading and probably should have a few more details added. The story is in first person, told by Kenzie, a teen girl with issues. She's from a single parent home and although not exactly neglected, she's been left to fend for herself without parental guidance. She's made bad choices and mistakes. When she goes to spend the summer with her grandmother in California, Kenzie has an opportunity to meet new people and be in more of stable family-like environment. Kenzie immediately meets Isaac, the cute Christian boy next door, and Rhiannon, the non Christian girl on the other next door side. Kenzie is a little divided between her two new friends and spends some time with Isaac (doing wholesome fun activities) and a little time with Rhiannon (learning about her alternative activities like playing with a Ouija board). Kenzie doesn't exactly 'meet' Wesley and that's where I have difficulty with the novel's blurb. Who Wesley is and how he factors into Kenzie's life are somewhat more complicated. I won't go into it because I don't want to spoiler it for anyone.
Again, as Christian YA reading goes, it's an engaging story. For it to appeal to a more general YA audience however, the author would have to make changes - but that would probably defeat the author's intended purpose. I do think that expanding some parts of the novel - like actually delving into the characters' psyches a little more could make the story better and broaden the audience a little - even without toning down the message. Going into Kenzie's disorder in greater depth and giving Isaac more of a personality (besides making him less perfect) would also be helpful. It would make the characters a little easier to relate to than they are currently. For its target audience, 4 stars. For a general audience it's okay.
August 16, 2012
ORIGINAL RATING - 3.5
Prowl is A paranormal romance by Amber Garza.First of all I would like to say the cover is AWESOME. Love the Electric blue.
This book starts with Mackenzie Smith going to her grandmother's for the summer. What happens there is the rest of the story.
Kenzie has some problems which are self-destructive .She keeps reasoning why she is doing so, without actually thinking about the repercussions. She meets the cute next door neighbor Isaac, And starts hanging out with him. She also learns things about her which was kept as secrets from her. And there is Rhiannon, Down to earth and sometimes too freaky.
THINGS I LIKE
1. The way California is described. I could literally envision the surroundings.
2. The Grandma - The typical example of grandmothers, with not so typical Features. I love her for believing in Mackenzie.
3. Isaac.*sigh*.Kenzie is One lucky girl!
4. Reality -This book is believable, as what Kenzie is going through is pretty Real.
THINGS I DON'T LIKE
1. The novel is too abrupt and short. I wish the author had written more about Isaac and kenzie's relationship.
2. Wesley- I hate you, for making Kenzie do things which she wouldn't have done in her right mind.
3. The description of the character was not very good. I found it hard to relate with the characters.
4. I thought Mackenzie fell in love with Isaac very fast. It was not believable At that level.
5. The book lacked in depth. Everything seemed a bit rushed.
Though i found it hard to get into the book at the beginning, I began to enjoy it at the later chapters. I’m not sure how I feel about the book still now. I’m fine with the The Christian element, but what irks me is that Kenzie Tries all the things to get rid of Wesley, but does not use her common sense.
That being said, I want to find out how the Series end. What will happen to Mackenzie? Is Wesley still troubling her? Have to wait and see.
Prowl is A paranormal romance by Amber Garza.First of all I would like to say the cover is AWESOME. Love the Electric blue.
This book starts with Mackenzie Smith going to her grandmother's for the summer. What happens there is the rest of the story.
Kenzie has some problems which are self-destructive .She keeps reasoning why she is doing so, without actually thinking about the repercussions. She meets the cute next door neighbor Isaac, And starts hanging out with him. She also learns things about her which was kept as secrets from her. And there is Rhiannon, Down to earth and sometimes too freaky.
THINGS I LIKE
1. The way California is described. I could literally envision the surroundings.
2. The Grandma - The typical example of grandmothers, with not so typical Features. I love her for believing in Mackenzie.
3. Isaac.*sigh*.Kenzie is One lucky girl!
4. Reality -This book is believable, as what Kenzie is going through is pretty Real.
THINGS I DON'T LIKE
1. The novel is too abrupt and short. I wish the author had written more about Isaac and kenzie's relationship.
2. Wesley- I hate you, for making Kenzie do things which she wouldn't have done in her right mind.
3. The description of the character was not very good. I found it hard to relate with the characters.
4. I thought Mackenzie fell in love with Isaac very fast. It was not believable At that level.
5. The book lacked in depth. Everything seemed a bit rushed.
Though i found it hard to get into the book at the beginning, I began to enjoy it at the later chapters. I’m not sure how I feel about the book still now. I’m fine with the The Christian element, but what irks me is that Kenzie Tries all the things to get rid of Wesley, but does not use her common sense.
That being said, I want to find out how the Series end. What will happen to Mackenzie? Is Wesley still troubling her? Have to wait and see.
August 17, 2012
I got this book free to review, Please know that this is my honest review.
Im sad to say I didn't really like this book much, Im not against Christians or christian literature as I grew up in a christian household and hold a lot of the same values and beliefs, buttttttttt this book was a little too preachy for me.
I feel like the author didn't have to be so blunt in her comparisons of good and evil. It was clear from the very start that this book would be a battle between the two sides, and there was not much to the story otherwise. I didn't feel like there was a lot of character or story development and that simply could be due to the story it self being short. It was a quick read but more time really could've been used to develop individual characters, plot and the relationship between the characters.
I liked the idea of Isaac and Kenzie but I felt like they barely saw each other and they barely talked so it couldn't be love to the degree its portrayed, perhaps mild infatuation or puppy love.
I feel only a couple of weeks passed throughout the story so all of the bonds Kenzie makes are a bit artificial and not as strong as they seem.
More background on Kenzie would've been nice too, while I understand she had issues that she wished to keep to herself having her as the narrator and hearing her innermost thoughts I just feel like we should've known more about her.
Im sad to say I didn't really like this book much, Im not against Christians or christian literature as I grew up in a christian household and hold a lot of the same values and beliefs, buttttttttt this book was a little too preachy for me.
I feel like the author didn't have to be so blunt in her comparisons of good and evil. It was clear from the very start that this book would be a battle between the two sides, and there was not much to the story otherwise. I didn't feel like there was a lot of character or story development and that simply could be due to the story it self being short. It was a quick read but more time really could've been used to develop individual characters, plot and the relationship between the characters.
I liked the idea of Isaac and Kenzie but I felt like they barely saw each other and they barely talked so it couldn't be love to the degree its portrayed, perhaps mild infatuation or puppy love.
I feel only a couple of weeks passed throughout the story so all of the bonds Kenzie makes are a bit artificial and not as strong as they seem.
More background on Kenzie would've been nice too, while I understand she had issues that she wished to keep to herself having her as the narrator and hearing her innermost thoughts I just feel like we should've known more about her.
August 3, 2012
I had trouble with this book. I had no idea it was going to go into God/Christian themes. I thought I was reading another paranormal romance, which I love. It was the opposite of what I am used to, although I guess by definition it still does represent paranormal.
There is very little romance in the novel. It seems to start off in that direction, and then veers away from it until the very end. It seems that the romance is just there to promote a Christian agenda. I also do NOT like the implication that this girl had the problems she did because of her previous ungodlike behavior.
I think that I might be a bit harsh on this book because it is not a preferred genre for me. I see that young teens might like this book a lot.
I also had problems with plot and character. Everything just seemed to happen perfectly and was just a bit too "pat" for my liking. I hate to say it, but I do not even remember the main character's name!
I recommend this book to young Christians between the ages of maybe 13 to 16. I do NOT recommend it to adults or to people who enjoy the usual paranormal fare.
There is very little romance in the novel. It seems to start off in that direction, and then veers away from it until the very end. It seems that the romance is just there to promote a Christian agenda. I also do NOT like the implication that this girl had the problems she did because of her previous ungodlike behavior.
I think that I might be a bit harsh on this book because it is not a preferred genre for me. I see that young teens might like this book a lot.
I also had problems with plot and character. Everything just seemed to happen perfectly and was just a bit too "pat" for my liking. I hate to say it, but I do not even remember the main character's name!
I recommend this book to young Christians between the ages of maybe 13 to 16. I do NOT recommend it to adults or to people who enjoy the usual paranormal fare.
August 9, 2012
This is such a good story. If I had to pick one thing that I disliked about it, I would say that it's too short. I would have loved if the relationship between Kenzie and Isaac was more developed, as well as the friendship between Kenzie and Rhiannon. Kenzie is so lost, and easy to relate to because of that. She represents every fear and insecurity that so many girls, and boys, have. Isaac is the quintessential hero. While it is ultimately Jesus, and Kenzie calling upon and believing in Him, that saves Kenzie, Isaac represents a very real saving grace. He likes Kenzie as she is, which is something she needs to believe in. *Spoiler Alert* Wesley's character being the devil was a twist that I wasn't expecting. All of the allusions to him being the devil were there, I just didn't see it until closer to the end.
All in all, I would say this is a wonderful read, and I look forward to experiencing more works by Amber Garza. I'm hoping, with the way this particular story ended, there will be more to read about Kenzie and Isaac.
All in all, I would say this is a wonderful read, and I look forward to experiencing more works by Amber Garza. I'm hoping, with the way this particular story ended, there will be more to read about Kenzie and Isaac.
August 4, 2012
Prowl is such a powerful and Amazing story !! I'm so glad I read this book and feel the message pull at my heartstrings.You will go through Mackenzie journey through facing evil and redeeming herself with GOD. The Author characters were believable, down to earth, also in to real life situations. Not to many people really believe in good and evil, God or Satan. Or that you have a choice to choose between the two. I do.Mackenzie will meet people in her life that will change everything she thought she knew about her life. I loved Garza writing style and that she put her heart and soul into her writing. I recommend this book to Christens or not..
March 28, 2012
Fantastic!!! it's really mysterious at the beginning but then the storyline starts unfolding and you'll never believe what happens next! i got so caught up in this book i couldn't put it down! I can't wait to read the next book to see what happens next and how much deeper things will get!!
Mackenzie goes to stay with her grandma for the summer to escape her life back home.. when she becomes friends with the girl next door she delves into the supernatural and awakens a spirit who wants to do her harm.. can she fix things before its too late??
Mackenzie goes to stay with her grandma for the summer to escape her life back home.. when she becomes friends with the girl next door she delves into the supernatural and awakens a spirit who wants to do her harm.. can she fix things before its too late??
April 27, 2015
Mackenzie was an okay character, but she could be quite annoying at times.
This wasn't a bad read, but I did feel bored quite a few times while reading it. It just couldn't keep my interest all that well, and it dragged at times because of it.
Overall, Okay read, but I hope the next book is better.
This wasn't a bad read, but I did feel bored quite a few times while reading it. It just couldn't keep my interest all that well, and it dragged at times because of it.
Overall, Okay read, but I hope the next book is better.
August 30, 2012
Firstly I’d like to thank Author Amber Garza for the opportunity to read this wonderful book. I had won “Unveil”, book three as a first reads, then realized that it was part of a trilogy. I contacted Amber to see if I may get copies of books one and two so I could read the trilogy together… she graciously sent them to me that same day.
Excited to have the whole trilogy (Prowl Trilogy), I set off to reading away, to enjoy it I went. I feel it’s only fair , that if I have been given the opportunity to read an Authors work, that I in turn give my fair and un biased opinion in return.
Prowl is book #1 in the “Prowl trilogy” by the talented Amber Garza.
I quickly fell in love with series pretty much from the start. With it’s messages of life, and the choices we make.. And of course along with a great storyline.
Mackenzie is a seventeen year old teenager who has been sent to her Grandmothers for the summer, her mind already made up that her summer was going to be boring and very mundane…. It turns out to be anything but boring!!!
She meets two very different neighbors, one side is Isaac the gorgeous do good who’s on the right path in life. Then there’s Rhiannon, who the strange out there kinda of girl. Then there’s Wesley… ummmm (yes I know that makes 3, but you‘ll have to wait and see)
Mackenzie has so many questions, and feels she wants some answers.. With no one really to turn to.
She has never known her father, yes there are lots of questions revolving around him. And a mother, by all rights wasn’t a mother to/for Mackenzie. She pretty much raised herself, which is so sad on all levels.
Not knowing what was real or not - no guidance in her life…. Did her father know about her, or did he not? Her mother won’t tell her anything about him, and her Grandmother really doesn’t know much either. No help there either.. Dang where can Mackenzie turn to?
So now being sent to her grandmother’s who she hasn’t seen for such along time. It makes me feel more blessed to have the family that I have, along with my tight knit family values.
The life journey that Mackenzie traveled along brought many emotions to my mind and heart, you will feel her sadness. Excitement, most definitely fear and anger…. Then so much frustration.
Most of us or at least some of us can truly relate to Mackenzie’s character, if you have ever done something you regret later, or about some choices we’ve made in our lives.
There are so many temptations as teens, the consequences of the choices are so eye opening and real.
Prowl is full of so much - trials and tribulations, the spirit world that’s introduced through a Ouija board (enter Wesley), good verses evil, supernatural, and a spirit that is awakened who wants to harm her…. And also you will find witchcraft with a touch of religious aspects.
I truly enjoyed the intriguing style of Amber’s writing, how it was written in a way that was easily related to the way most teens face life. All of us really when you think about it, not just teens…
I look forward to book # 2 “Entice”, so off I go one again as I delve into the next of the “Prowl Trilogy”… (-:
Recommend: Teen and up
Rating: 4/5 angel stars
Angel Anne Reviews
Excited to have the whole trilogy (Prowl Trilogy), I set off to reading away, to enjoy it I went. I feel it’s only fair , that if I have been given the opportunity to read an Authors work, that I in turn give my fair and un biased opinion in return.
Prowl is book #1 in the “Prowl trilogy” by the talented Amber Garza.
I quickly fell in love with series pretty much from the start. With it’s messages of life, and the choices we make.. And of course along with a great storyline.
Mackenzie is a seventeen year old teenager who has been sent to her Grandmothers for the summer, her mind already made up that her summer was going to be boring and very mundane…. It turns out to be anything but boring!!!
She meets two very different neighbors, one side is Isaac the gorgeous do good who’s on the right path in life. Then there’s Rhiannon, who the strange out there kinda of girl. Then there’s Wesley… ummmm (yes I know that makes 3, but you‘ll have to wait and see)
Mackenzie has so many questions, and feels she wants some answers.. With no one really to turn to.
She has never known her father, yes there are lots of questions revolving around him. And a mother, by all rights wasn’t a mother to/for Mackenzie. She pretty much raised herself, which is so sad on all levels.
Not knowing what was real or not - no guidance in her life…. Did her father know about her, or did he not? Her mother won’t tell her anything about him, and her Grandmother really doesn’t know much either. No help there either.. Dang where can Mackenzie turn to?
So now being sent to her grandmother’s who she hasn’t seen for such along time. It makes me feel more blessed to have the family that I have, along with my tight knit family values.
The life journey that Mackenzie traveled along brought many emotions to my mind and heart, you will feel her sadness. Excitement, most definitely fear and anger…. Then so much frustration.
Most of us or at least some of us can truly relate to Mackenzie’s character, if you have ever done something you regret later, or about some choices we’ve made in our lives.
There are so many temptations as teens, the consequences of the choices are so eye opening and real.
Prowl is full of so much - trials and tribulations, the spirit world that’s introduced through a Ouija board (enter Wesley), good verses evil, supernatural, and a spirit that is awakened who wants to harm her…. And also you will find witchcraft with a touch of religious aspects.
I truly enjoyed the intriguing style of Amber’s writing, how it was written in a way that was easily related to the way most teens face life. All of us really when you think about it, not just teens…
I look forward to book # 2 “Entice”, so off I go one again as I delve into the next of the “Prowl Trilogy”… (-:
Recommend: Teen and up
Rating: 4/5 angel stars
Angel Anne Reviews
September 19, 2012
I read this book as part of the blog tour for Amber Garza's trilogy Prowl. Mackenzie who prefers to go by Kenzie is spending the summer in Sacramento with her grandmother. Right away she meets the cute boy next door Issac and the goth girl across the street Rhiannon. Each one befriends her in their own way. Rhiannon is a practicing witch who can read aura's, and can sense that Kenzie also is gifted with powers. Issac also takes Kenzie out on a few dates even though she has sworn off men after a powerful breakup.
Rhiannon introduces Kenzie to witch craft by using a Ouija board to talk to the spirits, they instantly start talking too Wesley who knows about Kenzie's past offer to tell her about her father. She purchases her own Ouija board to talk to Wesley when Rhiannon isn't around and that is when things go wrong. She starts having horrible nightmares, so she stops sleeping, and thinks that Wesley is her father as he pretends hiding his true nature.
This book is the first in a series I plan to read over the next month. The synopsis hints at something powerful but doesn't give a clue exactly what we are going to expect. It's a fast paced book that kept me wanting more. I wanted to know who Wesley really was, what he wanted and what would happen to Kenzie. She's hasn't had the best life, things have been rough she has a past so this was a chance for a new start it's fun to watch Kenzie progress as she dabbles in witch craft. I like her as a character, I feel that she is well written and easy to relate too. It's a interesting story, a unique twist on personal demons but this one just happens to be really evil.
Rhiannon introduces Kenzie to witch craft by using a Ouija board to talk to the spirits, they instantly start talking too Wesley who knows about Kenzie's past offer to tell her about her father. She purchases her own Ouija board to talk to Wesley when Rhiannon isn't around and that is when things go wrong. She starts having horrible nightmares, so she stops sleeping, and thinks that Wesley is her father as he pretends hiding his true nature.
This book is the first in a series I plan to read over the next month. The synopsis hints at something powerful but doesn't give a clue exactly what we are going to expect. It's a fast paced book that kept me wanting more. I wanted to know who Wesley really was, what he wanted and what would happen to Kenzie. She's hasn't had the best life, things have been rough she has a past so this was a chance for a new start it's fun to watch Kenzie progress as she dabbles in witch craft. I like her as a character, I feel that she is well written and easy to relate too. It's a interesting story, a unique twist on personal demons but this one just happens to be really evil.
November 23, 2012
Kenzie’s life has been anything but easy. There’s a rocky relationship with her mom, a wild side that has worn her down, and an incident with a boy that encourages her to make a change. Prowl is the first book of the trilogy where we meet Kenzie briefly at home with her friends before she is shipped off for the summer to stay with a grandmother she rarely sees. While there, she encounters two different people who represent the extremes in her life. Amber’s writing style had me wrapped up from the beginning. Everything flowed, dialogue was perfect for the YA audience, and the character building connected with the reader. I would have liked to see more scenes with Kenzie and Isaac to help forge the bond they have, but I also have a feeling we may be seeing more of this in the future. I signed up for this tour knowing that there were religious undertones to the story, and even though that’s not something I would usually read, I thoroughly enjoyed Prowl for the paranormal elements and general YA story. As soon as I was done, I started Entice!
The Good: Great characters. Well written for their age and they handled situations appropriately. Oh, and our names are really similar! Ha!
The Issue: I felt a little bit of insta-love between Isaac and Kenzie. I enjoyed seeing Kenzie’s budding attraction to him, but was somewhat surprised with how quickly he professed his love. Certainly not something that ruined the story, just a relationship I’m looking forward to reading more about.
The Rating: 4 conch. You don’t have to be a fan of Christian reads to enjoy this story, just a fan of good writing.
Originally appeared at http://ambergarr.blogspot.com
The Good: Great characters. Well written for their age and they handled situations appropriately. Oh, and our names are really similar! Ha!
The Issue: I felt a little bit of insta-love between Isaac and Kenzie. I enjoyed seeing Kenzie’s budding attraction to him, but was somewhat surprised with how quickly he professed his love. Certainly not something that ruined the story, just a relationship I’m looking forward to reading more about.
The Rating: 4 conch. You don’t have to be a fan of Christian reads to enjoy this story, just a fan of good writing.
Originally appeared at http://ambergarr.blogspot.com
September 19, 2012
First I would like to say I received an ARC Copy of this book as part of the Prowl Series Tour.I am so excited to be a part of this tour. I have to say that this series started out as nothing I expected. This is a story of about a girl Mackenzie AKA Kenzie who is on a mission to find out who her father is and where he is. What she gets is definitely not what she bargained for.
Kenzie is sent to live with her grandmother for the summer. She is not thrilled that she has been whisked away to her grandmothers house but she is determined to make the best of this situation and find the answers she is looking for about her father's identity. When she goes to her grandmothers house she meets Isaac the next door neighbor who befriends her and they start to hang out as friends. Then she meets Rhiannon who is a witch who can read peoples auras. That is when things start to change because Kenzie and Rhiannon use a Ouija board to communicate with the dead to find out who her father is.
Once they start using the Ouija board things start to get weird because they start to communicate with Wesley who claims to know about her father and what Kenzie really is. Kenzie is confused because she thinks she is just an average teen but as she and Wesley get closer things are revealed and things are not what they seem. In a battle between good and evil who will win? Will Kenzie find out about her father Will she find out what she is and embrace it?
This is a must read series that combines religion and paranormal undertones. It had me at the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next.
Kenzie is sent to live with her grandmother for the summer. She is not thrilled that she has been whisked away to her grandmothers house but she is determined to make the best of this situation and find the answers she is looking for about her father's identity. When she goes to her grandmothers house she meets Isaac the next door neighbor who befriends her and they start to hang out as friends. Then she meets Rhiannon who is a witch who can read peoples auras. That is when things start to change because Kenzie and Rhiannon use a Ouija board to communicate with the dead to find out who her father is.
Once they start using the Ouija board things start to get weird because they start to communicate with Wesley who claims to know about her father and what Kenzie really is. Kenzie is confused because she thinks she is just an average teen but as she and Wesley get closer things are revealed and things are not what they seem. In a battle between good and evil who will win? Will Kenzie find out about her father Will she find out what she is and embrace it?
This is a must read series that combines religion and paranormal undertones. It had me at the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next.
June 8, 2012
My Review:
This book was filled with questions, heartache, angst, such mixed feelings. It took me back to when I was a teenage girl from a broken home myself. I knew who my mother was, knew her, but was not raised by her.
Mackenzie's situation was different but still I remembered some of the questions and actually felt some of the angst that she goes through.
Author Amber Garza's style of writing in this book was awesome. I read the book within a three day span.
Her characters were believable, down to earth, also in to real life situations. Not to many people really believe in good and evil, God or Satan. Or that you have a choice to choose between the two. I do.
Mackenzie being seventeen and feeling like she really doesn't have any one to turn to puts her into a situation that has her questioning what is real and what is not. If her father knew about her or not. Even if he did why didn't he care enough to know her at all. Then if that was not enough to handle being a teenager, she also has had to pretty much raise herself and now that she is older she is being shipped off to spend the summer with a grandmother that she hasn't seen in a long time.
So since I was able to get into the story line right away, could not put it down, characters were believable I am going to give this book my breath of life rating of:
5 Clock Rating!
This book was filled with questions, heartache, angst, such mixed feelings. It took me back to when I was a teenage girl from a broken home myself. I knew who my mother was, knew her, but was not raised by her.
Mackenzie's situation was different but still I remembered some of the questions and actually felt some of the angst that she goes through.
Author Amber Garza's style of writing in this book was awesome. I read the book within a three day span.
Her characters were believable, down to earth, also in to real life situations. Not to many people really believe in good and evil, God or Satan. Or that you have a choice to choose between the two. I do.
Mackenzie being seventeen and feeling like she really doesn't have any one to turn to puts her into a situation that has her questioning what is real and what is not. If her father knew about her or not. Even if he did why didn't he care enough to know her at all. Then if that was not enough to handle being a teenager, she also has had to pretty much raise herself and now that she is older she is being shipped off to spend the summer with a grandmother that she hasn't seen in a long time.
So since I was able to get into the story line right away, could not put it down, characters were believable I am going to give this book my breath of life rating of:
5 Clock Rating!
September 5, 2013
Wow!! This one actually sent chills down my spine. One's I hadn't felt in a long time...
I was a little skeptical at first about this book because: first, I don't really like to read mystery/suspense, when I read I want to be taken to a happy place, life's too filled with sadness already, why spend time reading about it. And second, because of the nature of this book, simply put I believe in everything that happens to Kenzie, I know that it's real, thus it made me nervous about the possible delivery from the author's part.
But I still decided to give it a shot. And boy, am I ever glad I did. It was really good, kept you at the edge of your seat, plus the parts that gave me chills just made it even more interesting and realistic. I just kept on yelling at Kenzie in my mind for being so naive and dabling with things she didn't know anything about.
I was offered to play with that kind of board a couple of times in junior high and I always said a big "NO" and just left the place where it was being used. Something always repeld me from it and told me to stay away. It wasn't until about 10yrs later, when I became a Christian that I finally understood everything I had felt. :-D I'm glad I never touched one!!
Later gator, I'm going to start Entice now... Let's see what Kenzie gets up to next.
Happy readings!
I was a little skeptical at first about this book because: first, I don't really like to read mystery/suspense, when I read I want to be taken to a happy place, life's too filled with sadness already, why spend time reading about it. And second, because of the nature of this book, simply put I believe in everything that happens to Kenzie, I know that it's real, thus it made me nervous about the possible delivery from the author's part.
But I still decided to give it a shot. And boy, am I ever glad I did. It was really good, kept you at the edge of your seat, plus the parts that gave me chills just made it even more interesting and realistic. I just kept on yelling at Kenzie in my mind for being so naive and dabling with things she didn't know anything about.
I was offered to play with that kind of board a couple of times in junior high and I always said a big "NO" and just left the place where it was being used. Something always repeld me from it and told me to stay away. It wasn't until about 10yrs later, when I became a Christian that I finally understood everything I had felt. :-D I'm glad I never touched one!!
Later gator, I'm going to start Entice now... Let's see what Kenzie gets up to next.
Happy readings!
April 11, 2012
Blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1EW2N3P...
Prowl was such a great read! I read most of it in one day and found it to be very interesting! I didn't expect there to be so much supernatural elements in Prowl, but it definitely made for an intriguing read.
Mackenzie Smith dealt with so much! She grew up without a father, deals with cutting, and when she visits her grandmother for the summer, she meets Rhiannon who introduces her to witchcraft... that leads her into a lot of danger.
Prowl was very easy to read and I enjoyed the good vs. evil message. Some of the scenes with "Wesley" were really weird, but that can be expected considering who he is.
My favorite character was Isaac (Mackenzie's grandmother's neighbor) - he seemed really sweet and I hope he's in Entice (book two in Amber Garza's Prowl trilogy).
A great YA novel that I really enjoyed reading! I recommend it if you enjoy YA novels or books with some supernatural elements.
*I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1EW2N3P...
Prowl was such a great read! I read most of it in one day and found it to be very interesting! I didn't expect there to be so much supernatural elements in Prowl, but it definitely made for an intriguing read.
Mackenzie Smith dealt with so much! She grew up without a father, deals with cutting, and when she visits her grandmother for the summer, she meets Rhiannon who introduces her to witchcraft... that leads her into a lot of danger.
Prowl was very easy to read and I enjoyed the good vs. evil message. Some of the scenes with "Wesley" were really weird, but that can be expected considering who he is.
My favorite character was Isaac (Mackenzie's grandmother's neighbor) - he seemed really sweet and I hope he's in Entice (book two in Amber Garza's Prowl trilogy).
A great YA novel that I really enjoyed reading! I recommend it if you enjoy YA novels or books with some supernatural elements.
*I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
September 11, 2012
**4 Stars**
I received this book through a read-2-review in the Young Adult Reads group.
MY OVERVIEW: Wow. This is a book I wish I had when I was going through a rough spot in Jr. High. The book brings spiritual warfare to life. I have only ever heard it/read it in the metaphorical sense, but reading it in the physical sense makes it really hit home.
PROS: Kenzie was an amazing character. I felt her pain and happiness right along with her. She was written in a way that would make a lot of people associate with her very well. The struggles she goes through are struggles that a lot of teens go through.
CONS: Um, I’m not sure how I feel about Isaac. Don’t get me wrong he is a great character, I’m just not sure he was as believable as he could have been. I don’t see a real-life Isaac actually dating Kenzie. I do see him falling for her but keeping his distance in a way, while he tries to bring her to God.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: A really great read and one that really makes you sit back and think. I will be reading the rest in the series.
I received this book through a read-2-review in the Young Adult Reads group.
MY OVERVIEW: Wow. This is a book I wish I had when I was going through a rough spot in Jr. High. The book brings spiritual warfare to life. I have only ever heard it/read it in the metaphorical sense, but reading it in the physical sense makes it really hit home.
PROS: Kenzie was an amazing character. I felt her pain and happiness right along with her. She was written in a way that would make a lot of people associate with her very well. The struggles she goes through are struggles that a lot of teens go through.
CONS: Um, I’m not sure how I feel about Isaac. Don’t get me wrong he is a great character, I’m just not sure he was as believable as he could have been. I don’t see a real-life Isaac actually dating Kenzie. I do see him falling for her but keeping his distance in a way, while he tries to bring her to God.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: A really great read and one that really makes you sit back and think. I will be reading the rest in the series.
August 8, 2012
I read "Prowl" by Amber Garza and all I can say is, wow! Great book! It was a great non-fiction read with a theme that I would say was about secrecy, family bonds, and beliefs. The author painted a great picture of a developing teenager that is trying to figure out where her beliefs lie and what exactly to believe in.
The summary could be best described as a teenager going to visit Grandma for the summer. While it's looking like it's going to be mundane summer, it is anything but. With an introduction of many characters the main characcter, Mckenzie (called Kenzie for short), is in for anything but an uneventful summer. References to the occult and Christianity make it a real page-turner, wondering what is going to happen next.
I found the book very engaging and interesting. I found myself agreeing with most of the author's thoughts and messages she was trying to portray. Hard to put those messages down without giving away the end... All I know is that it was an impossible book to put down once I got started! Definitely interested in book two!
The summary could be best described as a teenager going to visit Grandma for the summer. While it's looking like it's going to be mundane summer, it is anything but. With an introduction of many characters the main characcter, Mckenzie (called Kenzie for short), is in for anything but an uneventful summer. References to the occult and Christianity make it a real page-turner, wondering what is going to happen next.
I found the book very engaging and interesting. I found myself agreeing with most of the author's thoughts and messages she was trying to portray. Hard to put those messages down without giving away the end... All I know is that it was an impossible book to put down once I got started! Definitely interested in book two!
September 2, 2012
I had no idea that this was a religious-y type of book. I've never read something like this, but I really like it!
This book made my eyes pop open wide trying to read fast to see what would happen next! I read this in an hour or two without stopping!
I really liked Issac, but in the beginning, I thought he was evil. I mean, he didn't like Rhiannon and Rhiannon didn't like him! That's suspicious to me! Is one of them evil? Why do they hate each other? We learn why in the end though!
The one thing I didn't like was that they were playing with Ouija boards! Don't they know how dangerous they are? I will never play with one of those!
And I have a suspicion that Wesley won't give up that quick. When Haley called Kenzie and told her she met someone new, I had this sneaking suspicion that the someone new was Wesley.
This review is also on my blog:
http://simple-books.blogspot.com
This book made my eyes pop open wide trying to read fast to see what would happen next! I read this in an hour or two without stopping!
I really liked Issac, but in the beginning, I thought he was evil. I mean, he didn't like Rhiannon and Rhiannon didn't like him! That's suspicious to me! Is one of them evil? Why do they hate each other? We learn why in the end though!
The one thing I didn't like was that they were playing with Ouija boards! Don't they know how dangerous they are? I will never play with one of those!
And I have a suspicion that Wesley won't give up that quick. When Haley called Kenzie and told her she met someone new, I had this sneaking suspicion that the someone new was Wesley.
This review is also on my blog:
http://simple-books.blogspot.com
February 19, 2014
At first when I open this book and started reading it I thought it would be pretty good. Then after I continued I felt a negative tone when they talked about auras. Then all of a sudden they started talking about God in Christianity. That is when I realized I was reading a book that was all about hidden Christian propaganda. I skip to the end of the book to confirm what I believed and I was right this isn't a supernatural young adult fiction book it is a Christian fiction book. I would be totally okay with this if it were in the Christians section in the book store but there were no signs before buying it that it was a Christian book. I don't want to read a book that is trying to tell me how to think or tell me I need to believe in a certain religion. So basically the one star is because of the misrepresentation of the book. I feel that I was sold this book under false pretenses.
August 5, 2012
I found this book to be very interesting and a different story from any that I have read before. Although most of the time I was able to guess what was happening before it did.
The reason I rated it a 4 vs a 5 is because there were a few things that didn't quite flow for me. Sometimes it felt like answers were convenient. I did find some things that editing must have missed in the book, but that is really only if I am going to be picky with it.
Overall, I'd be interested to see where the 2nd book goes with this story and see if the things that I felt were convenient end up having more sustenance to them.
The reason I rated it a 4 vs a 5 is because there were a few things that didn't quite flow for me. Sometimes it felt like answers were convenient. I did find some things that editing must have missed in the book, but that is really only if I am going to be picky with it.
Overall, I'd be interested to see where the 2nd book goes with this story and see if the things that I felt were convenient end up having more sustenance to them.
August 6, 2012
I really enjoyed this book, it was well written and extremely suspenseful. There were several paths the books could have taken, I am glad Kenzie saw the light. It is really cool to have a book that expresses christian views. It is not common to have a christian book that contains such things as witchcraft and spirits. To have the demons that a lot of people face, like drugs, premarital sex, and aggressive behavior, be linked to the devil given it is given a face and I think it makes it easier to face/fight. Instead of being weak one is able to see what temptation really is, the devil trying to sway us away from God.
May 25, 2012
I was enjoying it until it turned into a feel-good religious novel. This book is definitely something you'd see on a church's summer reading list or the teen section of christian book stores. Not that religious views make a book terrible, I just feel it was a little sneaky to slip it in there at the end so that the reader's too invested in the story to put it down. I'm amazed that out of all the reviews I read, no one mentioned that it is a christian novel. I actually think this book may be missing it's target audience by not noting it.
December 4, 2012
Rating: 3.5
I LOVE the cover. It was a pretty good book. Effortless read. I'm not really so religious so I wasn't too sure about the book when it got into that part, but I'm glad I stuck around because it wasn't really IN YOUR FACE Christian like some other books are. I really liked the characters, especially our lead. I could really emphasize with her. The whole spirit thing is really interesting to me, but I'm too chicken to mess with it so it's nice to read about. It keeps you interested and I really can't wait to start on the next book!
I LOVE the cover. It was a pretty good book. Effortless read. I'm not really so religious so I wasn't too sure about the book when it got into that part, but I'm glad I stuck around because it wasn't really IN YOUR FACE Christian like some other books are. I really liked the characters, especially our lead. I could really emphasize with her. The whole spirit thing is really interesting to me, but I'm too chicken to mess with it so it's nice to read about. It keeps you interested and I really can't wait to start on the next book!
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