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Hidden Among Us #1
Hidden Among Us
When Lissy meets a mysterious and strangely beautiful boy on her way to Hopesay Edge, she is deeply unsettled by their encounter.
She discovers that the boy, Larkspur, is a member of the Hidden, an ancient group of elven people, whose secrets lie buried at Hopesay Reach. Before long, Lissy and her brother Rafe find themselves caught by a powerful magic and fighting to escape a bargain that can never be broken.
She discovers that the boy, Larkspur, is a member of the Hidden, an ancient group of elven people, whose secrets lie buried at Hopesay Reach. Before long, Lissy and her brother Rafe find themselves caught by a powerful magic and fighting to escape a bargain that can never be broken.
293 pages, Paperback
First published February 21, 2013
12 people are currently reading
1156 people want to read
About the author
Katy Moran
18 books63 followersKaty Moran began writing BLOODLINE while she was still in college. A former children’s book editor, she now spends her days writing in her garden shed in London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 27, 2013
Having read the synopsis above, I bet you think you know exactly what kind of a book Hidden Among Us will be. If you have any familiarity at all with paranormal romance and modern fantasy tropes, you will already have pegged the well-known stock characters of mysterious boy (with added unnatural beauty!), and intrepid girl, and plotted out the rest of the story in your head. He and Lissy are destined lovers who will fall madly for each other. Lissy's parents will be conveniently absent for all this, or so detached/consumed with their own lives that they they don't notice what their daughter is up to. After a series of shenanigans which only increase the pair's passion, they will figure out a way to be together despite their different worlds and all will be well.
Oh ho ho, Dear Readers. How wrong can you be?
Hidden Among Us is not that book. It's a dark, twisting, bittersweet tale of profoundly damaged family relationships, of broken hearts and broken promises, revenge and magic, and of how (especially here in Britain, with our layers upon layers of history, atrocity, folklore and prejudice) some part of the past is always waiting around the corner or lurking underfoot to suddenly swallow you up, just when you least expect it. This is not a paranormal romance. It's a fantasy of a most unusual sort.
There are no stock characters here. We have Rafe, the smart, competent, tricksy teen who ruthlessly and rather tragically attempts to use his cleverness to try and circumvent fate. We have Lissy, the brave but over-protected girl who can't understand or quell the wildness within her, and therefore can't figure out her place in the world. We have Larkspur (my favourite) an honourable man torn between what he knows to be right and what seems to be inevitability, trapped in his father's shadow. We have Joe, steadfast and steady, yet secretly and deeply romantic. And we have a network of parents and siblings and stepsiblings and other relatives all tangled around them, each with their own agenda and complicated backstory.
I'm not going to elaborate on the plot or its events. They do, basically, fit with the back cover copy that you read above. But not the way you think they will. This is a very tightly written book and almost anything I could write here would be a spoiler; not necessarily a spoiler in terms of telling you how the book ends, but more in how those events unfold. Part of the delight of this story is that pretty much nothing in it is what you would expect. That's what made ME fall in love with it, and I'd like you to have the same experience.
Hidden Among Us is beautifully written, in a spare, lyrical style which reminds me of the best kind of poetry. It paints stark, striking pictures of the landscapes that it inhabits; the spooky old house, the surrounding countryside, the features of the world of the Hidden. The elegently simple descriptions of things both mundane and unearthly give the whole story a wonderful ring of truth.
Katy Moran also illustrates the intricate web of secrets, unspoken truths, grey areas and unwritten rules that make up most family units. Each character within Lissy's extended, blended family is characterised by their love for and conflict with the others, which is a delicate sort of balance and very well done. From the outside the way that families interact is often incomprehensible and can even seem faintly mad - but within families, growing up in them, you don't question or doubt the Way Things Are. Katy Moran puts us in the middle of Lissy's family and slowly peels back the layers to reveal an extraordinary history of sacrifice and deceit that's only hinted at in the book's tense first chapter, and a truly terrifying darkness which has been lurking behind the everyday conflicts all along.
Love shines through this story. Not just the love of the characters for each other, but the author's love of the British countryside with its beauty and it's unexpected dangers and its strange, ancient nooks and crannies. Love for all those fascinating layers of British and Celtic folklore and mythology. Not the prettied up versions; the real, uncomfortable, sometimes brutal ones that give you a little jolt when you read them because they seem a bit too familiar for comfort, and at the same time bewilderingly alien. I loved the way that the Hidden were characterised - they are frighteningly inhuman but at the same time it was *also* frightening how human their feelings and motivations could be.
Reading this book, I was strongly reminded of The Power Of Three, one of my favourite Diana Wynne Jones novels. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of that story, or indeed any of Diana Wynne Jones' work. Hidden Among Us closes just as the eye of the storm falls upon the characters, trapping them within a temporary peace that they are fully aware cannot last. It offers no easy solutions and no pasted on happily ever afters. It's a wonderful, truly unique book. The sequel will be out next year and I, for one, cannot wait to see how this situation resolves itself.
Oh ho ho, Dear Readers. How wrong can you be?
Hidden Among Us is not that book. It's a dark, twisting, bittersweet tale of profoundly damaged family relationships, of broken hearts and broken promises, revenge and magic, and of how (especially here in Britain, with our layers upon layers of history, atrocity, folklore and prejudice) some part of the past is always waiting around the corner or lurking underfoot to suddenly swallow you up, just when you least expect it. This is not a paranormal romance. It's a fantasy of a most unusual sort.
There are no stock characters here. We have Rafe, the smart, competent, tricksy teen who ruthlessly and rather tragically attempts to use his cleverness to try and circumvent fate. We have Lissy, the brave but over-protected girl who can't understand or quell the wildness within her, and therefore can't figure out her place in the world. We have Larkspur (my favourite) an honourable man torn between what he knows to be right and what seems to be inevitability, trapped in his father's shadow. We have Joe, steadfast and steady, yet secretly and deeply romantic. And we have a network of parents and siblings and stepsiblings and other relatives all tangled around them, each with their own agenda and complicated backstory.
I'm not going to elaborate on the plot or its events. They do, basically, fit with the back cover copy that you read above. But not the way you think they will. This is a very tightly written book and almost anything I could write here would be a spoiler; not necessarily a spoiler in terms of telling you how the book ends, but more in how those events unfold. Part of the delight of this story is that pretty much nothing in it is what you would expect. That's what made ME fall in love with it, and I'd like you to have the same experience.
Hidden Among Us is beautifully written, in a spare, lyrical style which reminds me of the best kind of poetry. It paints stark, striking pictures of the landscapes that it inhabits; the spooky old house, the surrounding countryside, the features of the world of the Hidden. The elegently simple descriptions of things both mundane and unearthly give the whole story a wonderful ring of truth.
Katy Moran also illustrates the intricate web of secrets, unspoken truths, grey areas and unwritten rules that make up most family units. Each character within Lissy's extended, blended family is characterised by their love for and conflict with the others, which is a delicate sort of balance and very well done. From the outside the way that families interact is often incomprehensible and can even seem faintly mad - but within families, growing up in them, you don't question or doubt the Way Things Are. Katy Moran puts us in the middle of Lissy's family and slowly peels back the layers to reveal an extraordinary history of sacrifice and deceit that's only hinted at in the book's tense first chapter, and a truly terrifying darkness which has been lurking behind the everyday conflicts all along.
Love shines through this story. Not just the love of the characters for each other, but the author's love of the British countryside with its beauty and it's unexpected dangers and its strange, ancient nooks and crannies. Love for all those fascinating layers of British and Celtic folklore and mythology. Not the prettied up versions; the real, uncomfortable, sometimes brutal ones that give you a little jolt when you read them because they seem a bit too familiar for comfort, and at the same time bewilderingly alien. I loved the way that the Hidden were characterised - they are frighteningly inhuman but at the same time it was *also* frightening how human their feelings and motivations could be.
Reading this book, I was strongly reminded of The Power Of Three, one of my favourite Diana Wynne Jones novels. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of that story, or indeed any of Diana Wynne Jones' work. Hidden Among Us closes just as the eye of the storm falls upon the characters, trapping them within a temporary peace that they are fully aware cannot last. It offers no easy solutions and no pasted on happily ever afters. It's a wonderful, truly unique book. The sequel will be out next year and I, for one, cannot wait to see how this situation resolves itself.
March 29, 2013
I have pretty mixed feelings about Hidden Among Us and I’m not get sure whether the positives outweigh the negatives so I’m hoping I’ll make up my mind in the duration of this review!
I really enjoyed the different approach to writing about the fae. I mean, they’re not even called fae, they are the Hidden for a start! Their world is also very different; it’s dank, dark and damp instead of the usual setting of a bright and magical space full of magic and wonder. It nicely reflected the fact that most of the Hidden we met were pretty evil and that the love interest wasn’t one of them.
The multiple perspectives in Hidden Among Us was a surprise to me and while I enjoyed seeing the events of the novel from all angles, I found it confusing at first. I wasn’t sure who anybody was or their relevance to the story as it wasn’t really explained or clearly hinted at, especially Joe – he seemed completely out of place at first. I actually came to prefer any narratives that weren’t Lissy. She irritated me and I thought she was whiny and a little selfish.
I think I could have handled the confusion and Lissy if it was executed a little differently. The prose was often clucky and clichéd which really put me off. It was frustrating as the story is so unique and I love the idea and every so often I stumbled in to a really beautiful phrase and they two extremes just didn’t mesh very well.
Regardless of the problems I had with Hidden Among Us, the novel maintained a creepy and unsettling atmosphere and it’ a really brilliant idea.
I really enjoyed the different approach to writing about the fae. I mean, they’re not even called fae, they are the Hidden for a start! Their world is also very different; it’s dank, dark and damp instead of the usual setting of a bright and magical space full of magic and wonder. It nicely reflected the fact that most of the Hidden we met were pretty evil and that the love interest wasn’t one of them.
The multiple perspectives in Hidden Among Us was a surprise to me and while I enjoyed seeing the events of the novel from all angles, I found it confusing at first. I wasn’t sure who anybody was or their relevance to the story as it wasn’t really explained or clearly hinted at, especially Joe – he seemed completely out of place at first. I actually came to prefer any narratives that weren’t Lissy. She irritated me and I thought she was whiny and a little selfish.
I think I could have handled the confusion and Lissy if it was executed a little differently. The prose was often clucky and clichéd which really put me off. It was frustrating as the story is so unique and I love the idea and every so often I stumbled in to a really beautiful phrase and they two extremes just didn’t mesh very well.
Regardless of the problems I had with Hidden Among Us, the novel maintained a creepy and unsettling atmosphere and it’ a really brilliant idea.
February 3, 2015
Was ok. Not great, but also not awful either. Had to force myself to finish it.
March 21, 2019
Imagine finding out that there is another world hidden among your town. Imagine finding out that your from that other world and what you have known your whole life, has been one big giant lie to cover up an even bigger, darker, secret. This is what life is like for 16 year old Lissy. Her mother had lied to her her whole life, her sister and brother are in danger, and she is just a girl that wants to save them. She has to unravel all the secrets before she is able to save her family, but not before she gets captured by the swan king. Will Lissy be able to save her family? Will she escape the hands of the swan king? Will she uncover the truth, about her, and her family? Find out, by reading Hidden Among Us, by Katy Moran.
Hidden Among us is a good book to read if your looking to take yourself to another world that you could picture happening to you. This book is a good book for people who like cliffhangers and lots of mysteries to be solved. Hidden among us is a fiction write, that can transport you to another world, almost like you are Lissy. It was an easy read for a 293 paged book and a good book to read.
Hidden Among us is a good book to read if your looking to take yourself to another world that you could picture happening to you. This book is a good book for people who like cliffhangers and lots of mysteries to be solved. Hidden among us is a fiction write, that can transport you to another world, almost like you are Lissy. It was an easy read for a 293 paged book and a good book to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2019
Lissy, who just got back from boarding school, was feeling just a little more than rebellious and decided to take the train back to Hopesay on her own, instead of waiting for her mom and Nick to drive her home. When she reaches, she comes across a strangely flawless faced stranger who treats her like he's known her all her life. Intrigued as Lissy is, she didn't pursue the matter any further until she got home. She got chewed out by her mother for recklessly taking the train home all alone. Poor, confused Lissy storms out of the house barely minutes after she arrived, mad at her mom for crossing the line of overprotectiveness. She runs into the woods near the house and tells herself she'll go back in a few minutes, just to scare her mom a little. That's when she sees him again.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to be on the edge the whole time. This book kept me guessing the whole way but sometimes the storyline would make it feel like a drag a few times. Overall, this is a good book and was an interesting read!
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to be on the edge the whole time. This book kept me guessing the whole way but sometimes the storyline would make it feel like a drag a few times. Overall, this is a good book and was an interesting read!
March 22, 2019
You have a sibling. One whom you love very much. And they go missing. You obviously panic. This is the situation that Rafe has to face when his little sister gets kidnapped on page #1. 14 years later, Lissy goes on a journey and encounters a mysterious boy who acts as if he has lived her exact life and now he has come to support her. Family can be perfect in some stories, and sometimes, families can fall apart and be reborn.
This book is a complex fantasy read that I personally not recommend due to it being a fantasy book. This book to me a month to read with its 291 pages. This book by Katy Moran is a fantasy and is part of a series. Overall, I would give this book a 4 out of 10 as it is a bit awkward and fast paced with its many storylines and complex characteristics.
This book is a complex fantasy read that I personally not recommend due to it being a fantasy book. This book to me a month to read with its 291 pages. This book by Katy Moran is a fantasy and is part of a series. Overall, I would give this book a 4 out of 10 as it is a bit awkward and fast paced with its many storylines and complex characteristics.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2018
This book had so much potential!
I am in love with the premise of the book, the idea of the story, the world the hidden are from. But it was severely disappointing all in all.
The author has these amazing ideas that you really want to love! Like you can't wait to see what's going to happen, but there is just no details. There is no real depth in any of the characters or story line. It feels like the book was just rushed through with an idea, but didn't go past that. If the author spent a bit more time on character development and development on the world the Hidden was from this book could have been exceptional.
I am in love with the premise of the book, the idea of the story, the world the hidden are from. But it was severely disappointing all in all.
The author has these amazing ideas that you really want to love! Like you can't wait to see what's going to happen, but there is just no details. There is no real depth in any of the characters or story line. It feels like the book was just rushed through with an idea, but didn't go past that. If the author spent a bit more time on character development and development on the world the Hidden was from this book could have been exceptional.
October 19, 2018
This is definitely an escapist fantasy type read. I struggled to take in everything - if anything its a bit over the top but I imagine younger readers could get quite immersed in it. Some aspects of the plot I followed a bit more than others. Its an imaginative read. I found it hard to remember who was who, character wise and it didn't really grab me as a reader but its not an especially bad read as such.
August 23, 2018
A great quick read with some solid characters and some good description. Have book 2 ready to get on with :)
Written from the view point of the various characters but fairly easy to keep pace.
It's a solid three star, however, I felt the end was a little rushed and there were some parts that didn't flow as well as I would have likd but enough to piece things together.
Written from the view point of the various characters but fairly easy to keep pace.
It's a solid three star, however, I felt the end was a little rushed and there were some parts that didn't flow as well as I would have likd but enough to piece things together.
July 17, 2024
A teen read. But it was OK. Lissy meets a strange boy on the way to the cottage her mum is with her new partner. What she doesn't know is her mother made a pact with the Hidden when Lissy was younger so she didn't lose her. But now they've come back for her and she doesn't know it to begin with
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2023
4/5, this book is worth a try.
April 30, 2013
The Short Story? - A dark and grim spin on the classic faerie lore, Hidden Among Us is a thrilling and dangerous novel about a curse, a girl and a secret race of Fae looking for vengeance and revenge. An original plot, wonderful use of multiple perspectives and an exciting climax, Hidden Among Us is unlike anything I've read! Twisted, eery and sinister, these faeries aren't the ones from your bedtime stories!
The Long Story? - I'm a little on the fence about this one because for me, this was one of those books that wasn't bad but I can't really say I loved it either - it was an average book. It was a good plot, well-developed although confusing at times. The book also has a rather slow pace, there build-up was long and there isn't much action until the 50 or so pages. However apart from that I really did enjoy the plot, it was dark and sinister, very different from your typical YA faerie novel. It was very clever and I liked how the ending is kind of open-ended so the book works as a stand-alone but it could also be a series, I'm pretty sure it's a stand-alone but you can never tell with the YA market! My biggest concern with the book however was the prose. I feel like the narration really let the book down because I know I would have enjoyed the book a whole lot more if the writing wasn't so middle-grade. I really felt the writing style clashed with the plot because on one hand you have this beautifully dark and grim plot about killer faeries and then the prose is all "targeted towards 7th graders" - it just didn't work for me which is such a shame but nevertheless excellent plot!
I know a lot of people found the multiple perspectives very confusing but I personally really enjoyed it because it gave me a better sense of both the story and the characters. It also made the book unique and interesting. Although Lissy was the "main" character, I didn't really connect with her, we were so different from each other, it was a little hard for me to find sympathy for her or put myself in her shoes. She's also a little whiny and helpless which aren't the best traits to have in a protagonist. However I very much enjoyed Joe's character, I like his loyalty and his caring nature, he barely knows Lissy and her family yet in the short amount of time they're been together, he has been nothing but supporting (Joe's the stepbrother BTW, well sorta). I also really like Larkspur, he was actually my favourite character even if he wasn't a main. Very well portrayed, I LOVED his compassion and there is something beautiful about his loneliness and internal torment. My biggest characterisation peeve was probably Mariam, the mother. She was a horrible mother and an unrealistic character. I mean, what kind of parent, sits down and writes in a diary, feeling sorry for herself, while one of her kids is dying and the other one has been kidnapped by supernatural creatures, WHO DOES THAT? Overall it was a good characterisation, not the best but decent.
This wasn't the easiest book to review because there was a lot of pros and cons to weight up, it's definitely one of those books that not everyone is going enjoy. There are a couple of flaws however in the end, I still enjoyed Hidden Among Us and I would recommend it. Good characters, beautiful plot and a spectacular ending, if you're looking for something original, dark and supernatural, I would invest in a copy of Hidden Among Us!
The Long Story? - I'm a little on the fence about this one because for me, this was one of those books that wasn't bad but I can't really say I loved it either - it was an average book. It was a good plot, well-developed although confusing at times. The book also has a rather slow pace, there build-up was long and there isn't much action until the 50 or so pages. However apart from that I really did enjoy the plot, it was dark and sinister, very different from your typical YA faerie novel. It was very clever and I liked how the ending is kind of open-ended so the book works as a stand-alone but it could also be a series, I'm pretty sure it's a stand-alone but you can never tell with the YA market! My biggest concern with the book however was the prose. I feel like the narration really let the book down because I know I would have enjoyed the book a whole lot more if the writing wasn't so middle-grade. I really felt the writing style clashed with the plot because on one hand you have this beautifully dark and grim plot about killer faeries and then the prose is all "targeted towards 7th graders" - it just didn't work for me which is such a shame but nevertheless excellent plot!
I know a lot of people found the multiple perspectives very confusing but I personally really enjoyed it because it gave me a better sense of both the story and the characters. It also made the book unique and interesting. Although Lissy was the "main" character, I didn't really connect with her, we were so different from each other, it was a little hard for me to find sympathy for her or put myself in her shoes. She's also a little whiny and helpless which aren't the best traits to have in a protagonist. However I very much enjoyed Joe's character, I like his loyalty and his caring nature, he barely knows Lissy and her family yet in the short amount of time they're been together, he has been nothing but supporting (Joe's the stepbrother BTW, well sorta). I also really like Larkspur, he was actually my favourite character even if he wasn't a main. Very well portrayed, I LOVED his compassion and there is something beautiful about his loneliness and internal torment. My biggest characterisation peeve was probably Mariam, the mother. She was a horrible mother and an unrealistic character. I mean, what kind of parent, sits down and writes in a diary, feeling sorry for herself, while one of her kids is dying and the other one has been kidnapped by supernatural creatures, WHO DOES THAT? Overall it was a good characterisation, not the best but decent.
This wasn't the easiest book to review because there was a lot of pros and cons to weight up, it's definitely one of those books that not everyone is going enjoy. There are a couple of flaws however in the end, I still enjoyed Hidden Among Us and I would recommend it. Good characters, beautiful plot and a spectacular ending, if you're looking for something original, dark and supernatural, I would invest in a copy of Hidden Among Us!
February 17, 2013
Caroline for www.bigbooklittlebook.com
Copy received from publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Cloistered and wrapped in cotton wool by Miriam, her over protective mother, Lissy embarks on her first act of rebellion. Rather than wait for her mother to collect her she decides to take the train alone to Hopesay Reach, the home of her eccentric uncle and the place she was born.
Lissy experiences warm feelings of triumph at the success of her step towards independence, until she is forced to get off at an unfamiliar station. Dark and deserted in the middle of nowhere, the station boasts just one other patron; a stunningly beautiful, boy. A stranger, who sparks feelings of recognition within her and disappears moments after whispering her name.
The next time she meets the gorgeous but mysterious Larkspur she feels compelled to take his hand, following him into the nearby woods to a gathering of beautiful revelers. He takes hold of her and they begin to dance…
I might have misled you into thinking that Hidden Among Us is Lissy’s story. In fact Lissy shares the first person narration with three other characters. Her protective but emotionally distant older brother Rafe is attempting to unravel the secrets, which have confused and frustrated him his entire life. Joe begrudgingly gets caught up in the drama at Hopesay Reach by virtue of his fathers developing relationship with Miriam and his innate sense of honour.
Although a much smaller contribution, I really loved Miriam’s input in to the story. Simultaneously providing us with the background and history of her family’s interactions with the Hidden, while also keeping us ever aware of the current, time sensitive situation. It was refreshing to read a paranormal book where the parents were fully aware of the developing situation and not conveniently absent or lied to throughout.
If you are expecting a tale of glitter and of wishes bestowed by be-winged godmothers you will be horrified (but definitely not disappointed)to discover the true nature of the “good folk”... This immortal elfin race, might be stunningly beautiful, but their beauty is very much skin deep. These truth twisting, iron avoiding, bargain making, kidnappers of babies have their own agenda and are definitely advocates of the bigger picture.
While the book’s cover hints at the atmospheric story within, I was definitely not expecting fast paced action, evasive driving techniques, daring roof top escapes and the unwelcomed attentions of a sinister, underground organisation.
The Hidden have be described in the blurb as a group of Elven people. At first I couldn’t understand why, when all other clues point to it, they weren’t simply described as Fey or Faeries. Having read the book I now understand that to label the book as such (a paranormal book with faeries) could potentially put off a large number of readers who, if they gave themselves the opportunity to, would absolutely adore this action filled fantasy.
Verdict: The twists and turns of Hidden Among Us, indicates that author, Katy Moran may have spent a little time with the elven herself! I will definitely be picking up a copy of the sequel.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Cloistered and wrapped in cotton wool by Miriam, her over protective mother, Lissy embarks on her first act of rebellion. Rather than wait for her mother to collect her she decides to take the train alone to Hopesay Reach, the home of her eccentric uncle and the place she was born.
Lissy experiences warm feelings of triumph at the success of her step towards independence, until she is forced to get off at an unfamiliar station. Dark and deserted in the middle of nowhere, the station boasts just one other patron; a stunningly beautiful, boy. A stranger, who sparks feelings of recognition within her and disappears moments after whispering her name.
The next time she meets the gorgeous but mysterious Larkspur she feels compelled to take his hand, following him into the nearby woods to a gathering of beautiful revelers. He takes hold of her and they begin to dance…
I might have misled you into thinking that Hidden Among Us is Lissy’s story. In fact Lissy shares the first person narration with three other characters. Her protective but emotionally distant older brother Rafe is attempting to unravel the secrets, which have confused and frustrated him his entire life. Joe begrudgingly gets caught up in the drama at Hopesay Reach by virtue of his fathers developing relationship with Miriam and his innate sense of honour.
Although a much smaller contribution, I really loved Miriam’s input in to the story. Simultaneously providing us with the background and history of her family’s interactions with the Hidden, while also keeping us ever aware of the current, time sensitive situation. It was refreshing to read a paranormal book where the parents were fully aware of the developing situation and not conveniently absent or lied to throughout.
If you are expecting a tale of glitter and of wishes bestowed by be-winged godmothers you will be horrified (but definitely not disappointed)to discover the true nature of the “good folk”... This immortal elfin race, might be stunningly beautiful, but their beauty is very much skin deep. These truth twisting, iron avoiding, bargain making, kidnappers of babies have their own agenda and are definitely advocates of the bigger picture.
While the book’s cover hints at the atmospheric story within, I was definitely not expecting fast paced action, evasive driving techniques, daring roof top escapes and the unwelcomed attentions of a sinister, underground organisation.
The Hidden have be described in the blurb as a group of Elven people. At first I couldn’t understand why, when all other clues point to it, they weren’t simply described as Fey or Faeries. Having read the book I now understand that to label the book as such (a paranormal book with faeries) could potentially put off a large number of readers who, if they gave themselves the opportunity to, would absolutely adore this action filled fantasy.
Verdict: The twists and turns of Hidden Among Us, indicates that author, Katy Moran may have spent a little time with the elven herself! I will definitely be picking up a copy of the sequel.
April 20, 2013
Before Christmas, the lovely Hannah at Walker sent me a selection of three upcoming YA titles and Hidden Among Us was one of them. From reading the summary, I had a feeling this was going to be a book I either loved or wouldn't get on with at all; fairies/mythical creatures can feel a little overdone and there were so few fae series I'd got on with, I really wasn't sure about it. However, I decided to give it a go before it's publication date and I'm so glad I did.
Hidden Among Us is a fantastically creepy UK paranormal YA told in multiple perspectives. As a baby, Lissy was stolen by the Hidden and her mother managed to bargain for fourteen extra years before she had to return her to Hopestay. Now, the fourteen years are up and her elder brother, Rafe, is researching the Hidden and trying to save his sister while Lissy is oblivious to the danger around as they all return to Hopestay. At first I have to confess I wasn't sure if the multiple perspectives would work, however as the plot developed I could see how important having all of the views was and it really worked. Every voice was distinct as well, which is such an important detail and one that can be quite difficult in terms of writing.
The setting of Hopestay was wonderfully written and I could really picture this small village so well. I loved the British setting as so many series involving the paranormal and faeries are set in the US, but there's a wealth of history and folklore in the UK which is desperate to be explored. I was so pleased Moran chose to do this with Hidden Among Us and I think this is one of the features that really makes it stand out amongst similar books.
The Hidden are really creepy and malevolent in this book and I really liked this. I was also really intrigued by the shadowy human group who are aware of the Hidden and pursuing Rafe. As I read, I was desperate for Lissy to escape from her destiny with the Hidden and as soon as we entered the Hidden world fairly early on in the book, I was hooked. I really liked the twists and turns and how the plot developed to its conclusion at the end which left me desperate for a sequel.
This is a highly enjoyable YA book that I think has the potential to appeal to those who don't normally read books about the Fae, as well as those who adore them. It's beautifully written and an exciting, chilling tale as well. Hidden Among Us is available to buy now. I received a free proof copy for my honest review from Walker Books. Thank you so much Hannah for sending me this!
This review was originally posted at www.chooseya,com: Link
Hidden Among Us is a fantastically creepy UK paranormal YA told in multiple perspectives. As a baby, Lissy was stolen by the Hidden and her mother managed to bargain for fourteen extra years before she had to return her to Hopestay. Now, the fourteen years are up and her elder brother, Rafe, is researching the Hidden and trying to save his sister while Lissy is oblivious to the danger around as they all return to Hopestay. At first I have to confess I wasn't sure if the multiple perspectives would work, however as the plot developed I could see how important having all of the views was and it really worked. Every voice was distinct as well, which is such an important detail and one that can be quite difficult in terms of writing.
The setting of Hopestay was wonderfully written and I could really picture this small village so well. I loved the British setting as so many series involving the paranormal and faeries are set in the US, but there's a wealth of history and folklore in the UK which is desperate to be explored. I was so pleased Moran chose to do this with Hidden Among Us and I think this is one of the features that really makes it stand out amongst similar books.
The Hidden are really creepy and malevolent in this book and I really liked this. I was also really intrigued by the shadowy human group who are aware of the Hidden and pursuing Rafe. As I read, I was desperate for Lissy to escape from her destiny with the Hidden and as soon as we entered the Hidden world fairly early on in the book, I was hooked. I really liked the twists and turns and how the plot developed to its conclusion at the end which left me desperate for a sequel.
This is a highly enjoyable YA book that I think has the potential to appeal to those who don't normally read books about the Fae, as well as those who adore them. It's beautifully written and an exciting, chilling tale as well. Hidden Among Us is available to buy now. I received a free proof copy for my honest review from Walker Books. Thank you so much Hannah for sending me this!
This review was originally posted at www.chooseya,com: Link
April 5, 2013
Review: Hidden Among Us
By Katy Moran
Rating: 3/5 stars
I have very mixed feelings about Hidden Among Us. There were some very interesting elements to this book but there were a few things that I felt let the story down.
Hidden Among Us is the story of fourteen year old Lissy Harker who returns to Hopesay Reach, the isolated town where her mother grew up and she herself was born. Sheltered by her overprotective mother, Lissy is totally ignorant of the bargain made for her life and the dark world of the Hidden to which she is bound. Her life is turned upside-down when she encounters Larkspur, a member of the Hidden, a mysterious group of elven people whose secrets are woven into the very heart of Hopesay Reach. Caught in a century’s old fight, Lissy, her brother Rafe and their companion Joe struggle to find out the truth about the Hidden and escape a deadly promise which can never be broken.
The story is written from the view point of many characters in the novel-Lissy, Joe, Rafe and Lissy’s mother Miriam. The multiple perspectives was very interesting and allowed you to view the story from many angles, which was an enjoyable experience. One thing that was quite confusing about the multiple perspectives was that there was very little character introduction so it was hard to know how the characters were related to one another- especially at the beginning. I enjoyed most of the perspectives except for Lissy, who I though was annoying, selfish and arrogant.
I really like the portrayal of the world of Hidden as dark and dreary. It suited the Hidden perfectly, showing their careless regard towards material thing. It was an exciting change of pace from the forest loving Fae of other stories. I loved the Hidden in this story- wild creatures, uncompassionate and ageless. The Hidden by far were my favorite part of this story.
My biggest problem with this book lay in the writing. I found the plot confusing at stages where the character switches and no explanation or introduction is given. The writing style was not really to my taste with a few nice lines interspersed with pages of irritating commentary by Lissy. It didn’t really appeal to me but as the book went on I got used to it and could appreciate the idea behind the story.
Overall I enjoyed Hidden Among Us and would have given it a higher rating if not for those few problems. I was irked by the writing style and the behavior of the main character of the story but the idea behind the book is brilliant and well worth reading about. I would recommend this book to children between the ages of twelve and fourteen.
By Katy Moran
Rating: 3/5 stars
I have very mixed feelings about Hidden Among Us. There were some very interesting elements to this book but there were a few things that I felt let the story down.
Hidden Among Us is the story of fourteen year old Lissy Harker who returns to Hopesay Reach, the isolated town where her mother grew up and she herself was born. Sheltered by her overprotective mother, Lissy is totally ignorant of the bargain made for her life and the dark world of the Hidden to which she is bound. Her life is turned upside-down when she encounters Larkspur, a member of the Hidden, a mysterious group of elven people whose secrets are woven into the very heart of Hopesay Reach. Caught in a century’s old fight, Lissy, her brother Rafe and their companion Joe struggle to find out the truth about the Hidden and escape a deadly promise which can never be broken.
The story is written from the view point of many characters in the novel-Lissy, Joe, Rafe and Lissy’s mother Miriam. The multiple perspectives was very interesting and allowed you to view the story from many angles, which was an enjoyable experience. One thing that was quite confusing about the multiple perspectives was that there was very little character introduction so it was hard to know how the characters were related to one another- especially at the beginning. I enjoyed most of the perspectives except for Lissy, who I though was annoying, selfish and arrogant.
I really like the portrayal of the world of Hidden as dark and dreary. It suited the Hidden perfectly, showing their careless regard towards material thing. It was an exciting change of pace from the forest loving Fae of other stories. I loved the Hidden in this story- wild creatures, uncompassionate and ageless. The Hidden by far were my favorite part of this story.
My biggest problem with this book lay in the writing. I found the plot confusing at stages where the character switches and no explanation or introduction is given. The writing style was not really to my taste with a few nice lines interspersed with pages of irritating commentary by Lissy. It didn’t really appeal to me but as the book went on I got used to it and could appreciate the idea behind the story.
Overall I enjoyed Hidden Among Us and would have given it a higher rating if not for those few problems. I was irked by the writing style and the behavior of the main character of the story but the idea behind the book is brilliant and well worth reading about. I would recommend this book to children between the ages of twelve and fourteen.
February 26, 2013
This review was originally published at Fluttering Butterflies
For me, it can be a bit hit-or-miss when it comes to YA books about fae creatures, so I was a little unsure when I started Hidden Among Us by Katy Moran. I hadn't read any of the author's previous books and wasn't sure what to expect at all. Happily, Hidden Among Us is really fast-paced and interesting, introducing us to some fascinating characters and lots of mystery and I'm really quite looking forward to reading more in this series!
The first few pages of the story are incredibly tense and exciting and these strong feelings right from the beginning are what hooked me into Hidden Among Us, and that level of excitement is really carried on throughout the rest of the story.
I loved the different narrators. Sometimes it can be a bit hard to differentiate between multiple perspectives, like in this story, but it's nicely laid out with different fonts and each character's voice is strong enough to maintain high levels of interest even at a chapter break after some tense moment has just occurred. We hear this story from the points of view of three main character and the occasional thread from others as well. But mostly from Lissy, her brother, Rafe and Joe, her mother's boyfriend's son.
I like how the information about The Hidden, the ranch they're all staying in and the way in which Lissy and her mother have a history with the elven are all leaked to the reader and to Rafe, Lissy and Joe slowly. I liked having to piece together the bits of information to form this greater picture alongside the main characters.
And while The Hidden are fascinating to learn about, and the pace was kept quite fast, with lots of mystery going on, I think what I loved the most about the book were the characters. Especially that of Rafe and Joe. You can tell from the way in which Rafe decides to steal from the British library and this subsequent car chase, that he really cares about Lissy and will do anything to find out more in order to protect her. And also Joe, who has such strong feelings and does things to protect Lissy, almost without thinking, is pretty fantastic.
Everyone is racing against a timeline here with this bargain that was struck between Lissy's family and The Hidden plus there's some shady people circling which was quite enough to get me to furiously continue reading. I really recommend that you pick up this book and do the same!
For me, it can be a bit hit-or-miss when it comes to YA books about fae creatures, so I was a little unsure when I started Hidden Among Us by Katy Moran. I hadn't read any of the author's previous books and wasn't sure what to expect at all. Happily, Hidden Among Us is really fast-paced and interesting, introducing us to some fascinating characters and lots of mystery and I'm really quite looking forward to reading more in this series!
The first few pages of the story are incredibly tense and exciting and these strong feelings right from the beginning are what hooked me into Hidden Among Us, and that level of excitement is really carried on throughout the rest of the story.
I loved the different narrators. Sometimes it can be a bit hard to differentiate between multiple perspectives, like in this story, but it's nicely laid out with different fonts and each character's voice is strong enough to maintain high levels of interest even at a chapter break after some tense moment has just occurred. We hear this story from the points of view of three main character and the occasional thread from others as well. But mostly from Lissy, her brother, Rafe and Joe, her mother's boyfriend's son.
I like how the information about The Hidden, the ranch they're all staying in and the way in which Lissy and her mother have a history with the elven are all leaked to the reader and to Rafe, Lissy and Joe slowly. I liked having to piece together the bits of information to form this greater picture alongside the main characters.
And while The Hidden are fascinating to learn about, and the pace was kept quite fast, with lots of mystery going on, I think what I loved the most about the book were the characters. Especially that of Rafe and Joe. You can tell from the way in which Rafe decides to steal from the British library and this subsequent car chase, that he really cares about Lissy and will do anything to find out more in order to protect her. And also Joe, who has such strong feelings and does things to protect Lissy, almost without thinking, is pretty fantastic.
Everyone is racing against a timeline here with this bargain that was struck between Lissy's family and The Hidden plus there's some shady people circling which was quite enough to get me to furiously continue reading. I really recommend that you pick up this book and do the same!
March 7, 2013
Fourteen years ago in the isolated and cold dark corners of Hopesay Reach, where technology almost seems to refuse to function as the village clings to its ancient and mystical roots, a bargain was struck with a curse in action in lack of its fulfillment.
Now the covenant is ending and the terms must be respected or two unsuspecting lives will be lost. But if upheld, humanity is at stake.
However every deal has a loophole. The question is who will be willing to pay it.
Hidden Among Us was not what I expected, but surprised me in an unsettling and yet thrilling way.
Katy Moran weaved a story in the fashion of a contemporary fairytale, a rare genre; made even rarer by the fact that this is no ordinary fairytale, this is the kind told by old wives to scare the youths into behaving and staying out of trouble and places where bad things have an uncanny way of occurring.
Hidden Among Us was a dark and twistedly sombre and yet hauntingly beautiful tale. Katy Moran has done an exceptional job in capturing the essence of those tales that do not recount how Prince Charming saving the day. Every page of Hidden Among Us emanated the strength and wisdom of something ancient beyond the age of humanity, and exuded the dark power of words spoken by those who know their hidden potential.
Written from the alternate perspectives of Rafe, Lissy, Joe, and occasionally Miriam, every chapter took me one step further down the almost pitch black halls where the Hidden hide, as they wait for time to ripen and the opportune moment to strike. With only a flicker of hope as my light I pressed on through the endless tunnels of the world behind Hopesay Reach.
The only note I would like to make is that the synopsis somewhat leads to believe that there might be some romance threaded into the folds of this dark fairytale, but dear readers I warn you now not to expect it. Although love is a strong theme and moves all the characters in different ways, pushing them to revenge and sacrifice, this novel is not a paranormal fantasy romance and should not be commenced if that is what you are after.
This said Hidden Among Us is a tale of dark and dangerous beauty that although did take me by surprise, did not disappoint in the least. I shall be awaiting the sequel so that I may once again venture the halls of the Hidden blindly guided by the faint light that only misguided but forever present hope can shed.
Now the covenant is ending and the terms must be respected or two unsuspecting lives will be lost. But if upheld, humanity is at stake.
However every deal has a loophole. The question is who will be willing to pay it.
Hidden Among Us was not what I expected, but surprised me in an unsettling and yet thrilling way.
Katy Moran weaved a story in the fashion of a contemporary fairytale, a rare genre; made even rarer by the fact that this is no ordinary fairytale, this is the kind told by old wives to scare the youths into behaving and staying out of trouble and places where bad things have an uncanny way of occurring.
Hidden Among Us was a dark and twistedly sombre and yet hauntingly beautiful tale. Katy Moran has done an exceptional job in capturing the essence of those tales that do not recount how Prince Charming saving the day. Every page of Hidden Among Us emanated the strength and wisdom of something ancient beyond the age of humanity, and exuded the dark power of words spoken by those who know their hidden potential.
Written from the alternate perspectives of Rafe, Lissy, Joe, and occasionally Miriam, every chapter took me one step further down the almost pitch black halls where the Hidden hide, as they wait for time to ripen and the opportune moment to strike. With only a flicker of hope as my light I pressed on through the endless tunnels of the world behind Hopesay Reach.
The only note I would like to make is that the synopsis somewhat leads to believe that there might be some romance threaded into the folds of this dark fairytale, but dear readers I warn you now not to expect it. Although love is a strong theme and moves all the characters in different ways, pushing them to revenge and sacrifice, this novel is not a paranormal fantasy romance and should not be commenced if that is what you are after.
This said Hidden Among Us is a tale of dark and dangerous beauty that although did take me by surprise, did not disappoint in the least. I shall be awaiting the sequel so that I may once again venture the halls of the Hidden blindly guided by the faint light that only misguided but forever present hope can shed.
January 7, 2013
Hidden Among Us is told through narratives from multiple characters. Instead of using the usual two characters, this book is different. The beginning of the book begins with Rafe, a young boy finding that his sister has gone missing. The opening of this book was very strong and immediately piqued my interest. I felt the mystery and excitement and I wanted to know where Lissy (the sister) had gone, considering she was only a baby at the time.
Also narrating is Miriam, the mother, Lissy and Joe, Miriam’s boyfriend’s son. There is a lot going on in this book from all angles which is why this style of narration works so well. The family has a past which is best explained through Miriam while Rafe, Joe and Lissy are really the characters who have the most going on. All of these characters are extremely important so the separated chapters are a good way to get to know each of them on their own. I’m not sure if I had a favourite out of the whole bunch though as they mostly all had really good things going for them.
The Hidden are a mysterious race and the information surrounding them is let out in small amounts but quite quickly at the same time. Different chapters reveal things about who they are now, what they want and why they do certain things while others reveal things about their past. I really enjoyed learning about the Hidden, especially once we got a glimpse into their own world. However, one of them, Larkspur is at the center of the story and I wanted to know him better. While he is sort of the instigator of everything going on, I didn’t really get to find out much about him – not as much as I wanted to anyway.
I wasn’t expecting for this book to be anywhere near as exciting as it was. I think I was expecting more backstory for some reason. In a book about wonderfully beautiful and chillingly strange elven people, I wasn’t quite expecting to read about car chases and breaking in to people’s houses. However, I loved that there was so much in this book that was unexpected. There were surprises the whole way through and so many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. The latter half of the book brings in some ideas which should be explored further in the next book in the series and things which better explain Lissy and the Hidden.
Overall, Hidden Among Us was a great book full of folklore, excitement and a hell of a lot of mystery.
Also narrating is Miriam, the mother, Lissy and Joe, Miriam’s boyfriend’s son. There is a lot going on in this book from all angles which is why this style of narration works so well. The family has a past which is best explained through Miriam while Rafe, Joe and Lissy are really the characters who have the most going on. All of these characters are extremely important so the separated chapters are a good way to get to know each of them on their own. I’m not sure if I had a favourite out of the whole bunch though as they mostly all had really good things going for them.
The Hidden are a mysterious race and the information surrounding them is let out in small amounts but quite quickly at the same time. Different chapters reveal things about who they are now, what they want and why they do certain things while others reveal things about their past. I really enjoyed learning about the Hidden, especially once we got a glimpse into their own world. However, one of them, Larkspur is at the center of the story and I wanted to know him better. While he is sort of the instigator of everything going on, I didn’t really get to find out much about him – not as much as I wanted to anyway.
I wasn’t expecting for this book to be anywhere near as exciting as it was. I think I was expecting more backstory for some reason. In a book about wonderfully beautiful and chillingly strange elven people, I wasn’t quite expecting to read about car chases and breaking in to people’s houses. However, I loved that there was so much in this book that was unexpected. There were surprises the whole way through and so many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. The latter half of the book brings in some ideas which should be explored further in the next book in the series and things which better explain Lissy and the Hidden.
Overall, Hidden Among Us was a great book full of folklore, excitement and a hell of a lot of mystery.
March 26, 2013
Brilliantly creepy YA urban fantasy with old-school fairies
I loved this action-packed clash between our contemporary world and the old stories of the Fair Folk (here known as The Hidden). Deliciously menacing and utterly uncanny, there is no shirking from the fae's famed cruelty and absolute lack of humanity here. Yes, they are seductive, in that people can be dangerously beguiled by them, but there is no pretence at compassion or any kind of emotion from them. This is back-to-basics fairy lore.
The story is shared between three main narrators in alternating chapters (clearly headed with names). Rafe's is the first voice we encounter, describing the disappearance of his baby sister, Lissy. Most of the novel takes place fourteen years later, by which time Rafe has matured into a fascinating character, focused on his private mission to find out more about what happened to Lissy, which isolates him from other characters. The second chapter is narrated by Miriam, Rafe and Lissy's mother, whose voice we then hear only occasionally. Her viewpoint always reveals something tantalising though!
Lissy's own fourteen-year-old voice plants us firmly in the real world, with her normal teenage worries about her overprotective mother and how to gain more freedom. The third main narrator is Joe, the son of Miriam's boyfriend. I loved Joe. His mix of feelings as his family changes shape and he finds himself mixed up in Lissy and Miriam's drama is endearing and entirely convincing.
The plot is fast moving and in many ways thriller-like and yet Katy Moran still manages to find time to create atmosphere. The novel is eerie and chilling, just like The Hidden it centres on. The setting: the house of Hopesay Reach, built on sacred ground and with a complex history, has as much presence in the story as other famous settings such as the two houses in Wuthering Heights. The mystery element of the novel was another plus point for me. The writer does a great job of weaving clues and information about The Hidden
Overall, I'd urge you to read this if you like a creepy tale and enjoy folklore. I would recommend it to those who don't usually choose 'fae' books, as these are not the watered-down fae you sometimes find and are always disappointed in: there are no doubts here about the danger they represent.
I loved this action-packed clash between our contemporary world and the old stories of the Fair Folk (here known as The Hidden). Deliciously menacing and utterly uncanny, there is no shirking from the fae's famed cruelty and absolute lack of humanity here. Yes, they are seductive, in that people can be dangerously beguiled by them, but there is no pretence at compassion or any kind of emotion from them. This is back-to-basics fairy lore.
The story is shared between three main narrators in alternating chapters (clearly headed with names). Rafe's is the first voice we encounter, describing the disappearance of his baby sister, Lissy. Most of the novel takes place fourteen years later, by which time Rafe has matured into a fascinating character, focused on his private mission to find out more about what happened to Lissy, which isolates him from other characters. The second chapter is narrated by Miriam, Rafe and Lissy's mother, whose voice we then hear only occasionally. Her viewpoint always reveals something tantalising though!
Lissy's own fourteen-year-old voice plants us firmly in the real world, with her normal teenage worries about her overprotective mother and how to gain more freedom. The third main narrator is Joe, the son of Miriam's boyfriend. I loved Joe. His mix of feelings as his family changes shape and he finds himself mixed up in Lissy and Miriam's drama is endearing and entirely convincing.
The plot is fast moving and in many ways thriller-like and yet Katy Moran still manages to find time to create atmosphere. The novel is eerie and chilling, just like The Hidden it centres on. The setting: the house of Hopesay Reach, built on sacred ground and with a complex history, has as much presence in the story as other famous settings such as the two houses in Wuthering Heights. The mystery element of the novel was another plus point for me. The writer does a great job of weaving clues and information about The Hidden
Overall, I'd urge you to read this if you like a creepy tale and enjoy folklore. I would recommend it to those who don't usually choose 'fae' books, as these are not the watered-down fae you sometimes find and are always disappointed in: there are no doubts here about the danger they represent.
February 22, 2013
This was originally posted on www.serendipityreviews.co.uk.
From the opening chapter you get sucked into the dark Gothic atmosphere of this book. I was totally absorbed and lost in the story from page one. I had forgotten how much I loved stories about the fae world. However as I read on, I found myself wondering if these creatures were really fae – they are much more intense and alien like in nature, very creepy to be around.
The story is told from various viewpoints and all in first person, so you can really feel the intensity of the emotions of the characters leaving you breathless as they try to stop the inevitable. Lissy’s family is extremely disjointed and troubled. Many secrets have been hidden in the hope that time would make people forget, unfortunately time has a habit of remembering and catching up with you when you least expect it.
The characters are strong and determined, each fighting the evil that threatens in their own little way. Lissy came across as a little naïve to begin with, but as the truth came out you watched in awe as her character grew in strength. I loved Joe, he was obviously bewitched quite early on in the book and you felt his intensity and desperation to save everyone very early on.
The plot is fast paced, as time quickens. It was like watching an hour glass running out of sand as they all tried to stop the Hidden. So much happens in this book, the action never easing up. I held my breath many times as I raced through the story to see the outcome. The story literally spiralled down like a helter skelter as it got darker and darker sending a chill down my spine.
I love the way the author writes. There is such beauty and depth in her descriptions. The feelings of her characters capture your emotions as they fight with everything they have got.
This is one of the best fae books I have read in a long time. It’s like a darker version of the The Thirteen Treasures by Michelle Harrison. It also reminded me of Holly Black’s style of fae in her books such as Valiant and Tithe. I was completely lost in this dark but magical tale.
From the opening chapter you get sucked into the dark Gothic atmosphere of this book. I was totally absorbed and lost in the story from page one. I had forgotten how much I loved stories about the fae world. However as I read on, I found myself wondering if these creatures were really fae – they are much more intense and alien like in nature, very creepy to be around.
The story is told from various viewpoints and all in first person, so you can really feel the intensity of the emotions of the characters leaving you breathless as they try to stop the inevitable. Lissy’s family is extremely disjointed and troubled. Many secrets have been hidden in the hope that time would make people forget, unfortunately time has a habit of remembering and catching up with you when you least expect it.
The characters are strong and determined, each fighting the evil that threatens in their own little way. Lissy came across as a little naïve to begin with, but as the truth came out you watched in awe as her character grew in strength. I loved Joe, he was obviously bewitched quite early on in the book and you felt his intensity and desperation to save everyone very early on.
The plot is fast paced, as time quickens. It was like watching an hour glass running out of sand as they all tried to stop the Hidden. So much happens in this book, the action never easing up. I held my breath many times as I raced through the story to see the outcome. The story literally spiralled down like a helter skelter as it got darker and darker sending a chill down my spine.
I love the way the author writes. There is such beauty and depth in her descriptions. The feelings of her characters capture your emotions as they fight with everything they have got.
This is one of the best fae books I have read in a long time. It’s like a darker version of the The Thirteen Treasures by Michelle Harrison. It also reminded me of Holly Black’s style of fae in her books such as Valiant and Tithe. I was completely lost in this dark but magical tale.
December 26, 2013
I rate this book 2/5 because it sucks. I said it.
I find it really weird how Larkspur and Lissy are siblings. (Not that it's wrong or anything but just kind of.. awkward, I guess?) They are centuries apart, age-wise. When Larkspur's magnificent red hair was revealed, I sort of already knew that they were related somehow. And I was right, wasn't I? Same gorgeous hair. I'm jelly. :x
Joe. Joe is my favourite character. At the same time, he is incredibly dumb. He's going to save Lissy, a girl he's barely known for like 2 seconds. PUH-LEASE. Are you retarded, Joe? If it wasn't for the green eyes with grey flecks, I would sock you.
Tippy. BORING. Worst character ever. When she sarcrificed herself, I thought, :Wow. Much sacrifice. Very brave. So heartbreaking. Wow." Big deal! She sacrificed herself because she didn't want to live anymore, not because for Lissy. She doesn't give two shits about Lissy! That's all!
The other characters are dull and lifeless so I won't waste my time writing about them. Though I did want Connie to die. Js. I'm evil, I know.
This book and its magic concept is kinda.. weird. It's like they just shove it in your face and not let you understand it fully. "Here, this is how the magic world works."
And oh, this line - "Nine hundred years is nothing to my father." REALLY LARKSPUR? REALLY?! This line agitates me. I want to pick up this book and throw it out the window, never to see it again. NINE HUNDRED YEARS, AND YOU STILL WANT REVENGE? I would've forgotten the lady (man in my case :x) by then! And that name you have, Swan King. What kind of lame-ass title is that? If you think it makes you sound epic, no. It makes you sound like a pathetic loser.
All in all I was disappointed with this book. It's like getting a beautifully wrapped Christmas present, 'cept there's an ugly pair of white socks inside. Bleurgh.
I find it really weird how Larkspur and Lissy are siblings. (Not that it's wrong or anything but just kind of.. awkward, I guess?) They are centuries apart, age-wise. When Larkspur's magnificent red hair was revealed, I sort of already knew that they were related somehow. And I was right, wasn't I? Same gorgeous hair. I'm jelly. :x
Joe. Joe is my favourite character. At the same time, he is incredibly dumb. He's going to save Lissy, a girl he's barely known for like 2 seconds. PUH-LEASE. Are you retarded, Joe? If it wasn't for the green eyes with grey flecks, I would sock you.
Tippy. BORING. Worst character ever. When she sarcrificed herself, I thought, :Wow. Much sacrifice. Very brave. So heartbreaking. Wow." Big deal! She sacrificed herself because she didn't want to live anymore, not because for Lissy. She doesn't give two shits about Lissy! That's all!
The other characters are dull and lifeless so I won't waste my time writing about them. Though I did want Connie to die. Js. I'm evil, I know.
This book and its magic concept is kinda.. weird. It's like they just shove it in your face and not let you understand it fully. "Here, this is how the magic world works."
And oh, this line - "Nine hundred years is nothing to my father." REALLY LARKSPUR? REALLY?! This line agitates me. I want to pick up this book and throw it out the window, never to see it again. NINE HUNDRED YEARS, AND YOU STILL WANT REVENGE? I would've forgotten the lady (man in my case :x) by then! And that name you have, Swan King. What kind of lame-ass title is that? If you think it makes you sound epic, no. It makes you sound like a pathetic loser.
All in all I was disappointed with this book. It's like getting a beautifully wrapped Christmas present, 'cept there's an ugly pair of white socks inside. Bleurgh.
February 6, 2013
This review was first published on http://teachermoloneyking.com
Fourteen year of Lissy has an overprotective mother, has a book stealing older brother, is a child of divorce, can read Anna Karenina in Russian. She is different and wants to be alone. So, she trains it on a long journey to the village her mother grew up in. Lissy wants to meet the uncle she's never met and find out about her mothers past. And so starts the battle for her life and the war for the survival of humankind.
Katy Moran has a MA in Novel Writing, works in the publishing industry and has been writing since she was ten.
This book has taken The Hidden (fairies) to a whole new twisted and vengeful level. Ancient folklore mixes well in the modern setting. Moran does a great job of seamlessly blending many points of view into a comprehensive and compelling page-turner. With so many characters narrating it could be easy to get lost in this Fae adventure, but Moran creates a multilayered fairy tale with dynamic and opinionated characters.
Be warned, there are twists in this book that I never saw coming.
My personal favourite parts: when Rafe makes a horrifying discovery. I won't say what happened, have a look at the second page. And I love the scene of Joe trying to help Lissy but... Chapter 38. So spooky.
Be you a fan of folklore or not; you will find this book difficult to put down.
Fourteen year of Lissy has an overprotective mother, has a book stealing older brother, is a child of divorce, can read Anna Karenina in Russian. She is different and wants to be alone. So, she trains it on a long journey to the village her mother grew up in. Lissy wants to meet the uncle she's never met and find out about her mothers past. And so starts the battle for her life and the war for the survival of humankind.
Katy Moran has a MA in Novel Writing, works in the publishing industry and has been writing since she was ten.
This book has taken The Hidden (fairies) to a whole new twisted and vengeful level. Ancient folklore mixes well in the modern setting. Moran does a great job of seamlessly blending many points of view into a comprehensive and compelling page-turner. With so many characters narrating it could be easy to get lost in this Fae adventure, but Moran creates a multilayered fairy tale with dynamic and opinionated characters.
Be warned, there are twists in this book that I never saw coming.
My personal favourite parts: when Rafe makes a horrifying discovery. I won't say what happened, have a look at the second page. And I love the scene of Joe trying to help Lissy but... Chapter 38. So spooky.
Be you a fan of folklore or not; you will find this book difficult to put down.
January 31, 2013
DNF
This is one of the rare books where I just give up altogether and don't finish it. The great reviews and interesting synopsis made it seem like a book that I usually love, but unfortunately it didn't work for me.
When I first started reading it, I was intrigued. The Hidden world is filled with magic which really captivated me at the start. However, as I carried on reading, it went downhill. The cliché plot annoyed me and certain aspects of characters seemed unrealistic. The storyline had great potential and I usually adore this genre yet I lost interest.
The main reasons why I stopped reading the book were the multiple perspectives. There were so many people narrating the story which on some levels are good but I found it a much too large number. It was VERY confusing! When starting a new chapter, I'd have to flick back a few pages and see what just happened to the character. It was too much of a hassle and I started to get fed up thus resulting in me abandoning the story.
Personally, I don't recommend it due to the structure of the book. I think that the book could have been better if we read the story through only one or two perspectives. It has a great paranormal theme but not enough to keep me reading.
This is one of the rare books where I just give up altogether and don't finish it. The great reviews and interesting synopsis made it seem like a book that I usually love, but unfortunately it didn't work for me.
When I first started reading it, I was intrigued. The Hidden world is filled with magic which really captivated me at the start. However, as I carried on reading, it went downhill. The cliché plot annoyed me and certain aspects of characters seemed unrealistic. The storyline had great potential and I usually adore this genre yet I lost interest.
The main reasons why I stopped reading the book were the multiple perspectives. There were so many people narrating the story which on some levels are good but I found it a much too large number. It was VERY confusing! When starting a new chapter, I'd have to flick back a few pages and see what just happened to the character. It was too much of a hassle and I started to get fed up thus resulting in me abandoning the story.
Personally, I don't recommend it due to the structure of the book. I think that the book could have been better if we read the story through only one or two perspectives. It has a great paranormal theme but not enough to keep me reading.
February 15, 2014
i loved it very much. I admit being unsure at first but then i was so caught to it. I actually read more than half of it in one sitting. its thrilling and hooking.
Every character grew on me. My favorite was Larkspur. I just couldnt help but ache for him. After he had suffered for fourteen years his father denied him forgiveness. I was so sad when Larkspur and Lissy ended up in two worlds but i see what the writer mean by that. Larkspur was lissy's hope. After Joe,Rafe,Miriam and even connie were all long dead Larkspur would still be there looking for a way to get to her. And to stop his father.
But i was hoping to know what happened to Miles after he had gone for Rose even after she was obviously dead from joe's knife. He went to the hidden's world and that was it . Was he alive? Did lissy somehow managed to keep him alive among the hidden?
This story left me in an emotional roller coaster. I didn't know if i should be happy that Larkspur escaped his dad and was free to look for his long lost brother to go and help Lissy and the rest of humanity. Or to be sad and devastated that Joe loved her and was torn apart from her.
Every character grew on me. My favorite was Larkspur. I just couldnt help but ache for him. After he had suffered for fourteen years his father denied him forgiveness. I was so sad when Larkspur and Lissy ended up in two worlds but i see what the writer mean by that. Larkspur was lissy's hope. After Joe,Rafe,Miriam and even connie were all long dead Larkspur would still be there looking for a way to get to her. And to stop his father.
But i was hoping to know what happened to Miles after he had gone for Rose even after she was obviously dead from joe's knife. He went to the hidden's world and that was it . Was he alive? Did lissy somehow managed to keep him alive among the hidden?
This story left me in an emotional roller coaster. I didn't know if i should be happy that Larkspur escaped his dad and was free to look for his long lost brother to go and help Lissy and the rest of humanity. Or to be sad and devastated that Joe loved her and was torn apart from her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2015
I just...I don't know. There were parts of this book I liked. I'm always a fan of stories involving faeries that have an "old" or traditional feel to them, and Hidden Among Us certainly has that. But I think where it goes wrong lies in the fact that it tries to do too much within its 300 odd pages, weaving in multiple story lines and alternating character perspectives and trying to bring in centuries old plot points into the same story (which, by the end, almost seemed like a deus ex machina in my opinion).
The characters that had chapters were barely developed, let alone the side ones, and at certain points it was hard to distinguish them from each other (Rafe and Joe especially). It seemed weird that Miriam was writing all this down but the rest were just speaking? Where were they writing and why?
Also they all seemed to alternate between believing in the hidden and not believing in them...that combined with everyone's almost automatic dislike of each other (you'll see wot I mean when you read) and the occasional repetition of feelings/phrases made this for a very weird read.
The characters that had chapters were barely developed, let alone the side ones, and at certain points it was hard to distinguish them from each other (Rafe and Joe especially). It seemed weird that Miriam was writing all this down but the rest were just speaking? Where were they writing and why?
Also they all seemed to alternate between believing in the hidden and not believing in them...that combined with everyone's almost automatic dislike of each other (you'll see wot I mean when you read) and the occasional repetition of feelings/phrases made this for a very weird read.
July 17, 2013
I’d read enough reviews of this book to know that it wasn’t going to be what I expected, and it certainly wasn’t. This is a fantasy book, with fae creatures and lore, and a great thriller sense running through it.
I did find it a little slow going initially, but I think that was a lot to do with my not quite working out how the various characters were linked to one another – I flicked back and forwards a few times trying to work out who was related to who. Once I got my head round this I found the book absolutely whipped by.
I liked that this book felt original, I think the characters really worked in this respect – they were well developed and felt like individuals. So much of the focus of this book was on the characters, what they’d done in the past, how they were acting now and I loved this.
I loved the dark and twisty nature of this book, whilst I was very satisfied by the conclusion I would welcome a follow up book so I could see what happens next.
I did find it a little slow going initially, but I think that was a lot to do with my not quite working out how the various characters were linked to one another – I flicked back and forwards a few times trying to work out who was related to who. Once I got my head round this I found the book absolutely whipped by.
I liked that this book felt original, I think the characters really worked in this respect – they were well developed and felt like individuals. So much of the focus of this book was on the characters, what they’d done in the past, how they were acting now and I loved this.
I loved the dark and twisty nature of this book, whilst I was very satisfied by the conclusion I would welcome a follow up book so I could see what happens next.
June 14, 2015
A deliciously creepy tale, full of suspense, dark twists and fantastical mystery. Could easily see this being turned into a TV series. I like the fact that not everything is explained, we are left with a lot of unanswered questions about certain characters and plot elements, but just enough to keep us enthralled and wanting more. This also helps to stimulate our imagination, quite like magical fairytales we read as children, but much darker. The author is successful in creating a permanent sense of panic and cold fear throughout the book, without it becoming too much to bear. Don't let this comment put you off reading it, on the contrary, start reading and enjoy the ride.
I'm giving this book 3 stars instead of 4 because the ending is completely inadequate. It feels like it was written too quickly, and it spoils the balance of mystery of the rest of the book. If there wasn't a book 2 (which I look forward to reading) to help overcome this poor ending, I would have rated it 2 stars.
I'm giving this book 3 stars instead of 4 because the ending is completely inadequate. It feels like it was written too quickly, and it spoils the balance of mystery of the rest of the book. If there wasn't a book 2 (which I look forward to reading) to help overcome this poor ending, I would have rated it 2 stars.
August 13, 2014
While I was reading Hidden Among Us I thought about all these great things I wanted to say in my review about the book but when it came to writing it… well I’ve been staring at a blank page for a while now.
I didn’t want to start the review with “this books wasn’t what I was expecting” because I’d researched it before I agreed to read it. I knew Hidden Among Us wasn’t a glitter pretty star-crossed lovers story but Katy Moran still surprised me IN ALL THE GOOD WAYS.
So for a change here’s a checklist of why you should read this book:
Three-dimensional characters
Beautiful writing
A dark and twisted tale full of the unexpected
Relationships – all of them. (Family, friends and romance)
Multiple POV narration that works (you feel so much for all the characters)
The Hidden
And of course the promise of more…
I didn’t want to start the review with “this books wasn’t what I was expecting” because I’d researched it before I agreed to read it. I knew Hidden Among Us wasn’t a glitter pretty star-crossed lovers story but Katy Moran still surprised me IN ALL THE GOOD WAYS.
So for a change here’s a checklist of why you should read this book:
Three-dimensional characters
Beautiful writing
A dark and twisted tale full of the unexpected
Relationships – all of them. (Family, friends and romance)
Multiple POV narration that works (you feel so much for all the characters)
The Hidden
And of course the promise of more…
February 28, 2015
I may change this when I read the sequel, because if this has had an actual ending, rather than being cut off with the main questions unresolved, I might have liked it better. There's some strong characterization here--we jump around in a bunch of points of view, but I connected with each of them, and the people around them, despite the way the plot jumped around and a lot felt unexplored and unexplained. I don't mind that so much in stories dealing with the hidden, mysterious, magical, and amoral fey, but it seemed there were logics here that I was supposed to swallow and follow, but I was left feeling more "huh, what?" about. It needed just a little more background and detail. And of course some indication--somewhere, anywhere, on the book--that this was only part of the story and not a standalone.
May 6, 2013
3.5 / 5 stars
This is a fast-paced story that blends traditional mythology about the fae with a fast-paced and action packed plot, making it a faerie story the likes of which you probably haven't seen. Unfortunately, it isn't available in the US...yet...but I think that readers will enjoy the way she develops the Hidden, even if there are some minor plot holes.
While Goodreads doesn't mention a sequel, it's definitely set up to permit one. Personally, I hope it is written because I want to learn more about both Lizzy and Larkspur.
(Here's a link to my full review: http://www.yabookshelf.com/2013/05/hi...)
This is a fast-paced story that blends traditional mythology about the fae with a fast-paced and action packed plot, making it a faerie story the likes of which you probably haven't seen. Unfortunately, it isn't available in the US...yet...but I think that readers will enjoy the way she develops the Hidden, even if there are some minor plot holes.
While Goodreads doesn't mention a sequel, it's definitely set up to permit one. Personally, I hope it is written because I want to learn more about both Lizzy and Larkspur.
(Here's a link to my full review: http://www.yabookshelf.com/2013/05/hi...)
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