What do you think?
Rate this book
Fix by Force
Spencer doesn't have a choice. He can't choose to be different than what he is-the son of the town's worst enemy, the weakling who can't stand up for himself, the loser without friends. He can't change the way things are. Or maybe he can. Immediate confidence. Rapid change. Instant hope. These are the things Spencer believes he needs to fix his life, and that is what the steroids promise-a quick fix. But promises can be broken and shortcuts are often treacherous, and Spencer must decide if those risks are worth the perceived rewards-if "artificial" hope is strong enough for him to be fixed, by force.
188 pages, Paperback
First published March 28, 2012
4 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
May 16, 2014
If I was could sum up this book in one word, it would be WOW (capitalized for effect). This is an incredibly powerful story chock full of emotion and drama.
Spencer is a high school senior who feels insignificant and powerless. He comes from a dysfunctional family, including a verbally and occasionally physically abusive mother, and he is being bullied at school with no one to turn to for help. Spencer feels he is alone in the world with his pain, and his greatest fear is of turning into his much-hated father. Spencer realizes he needs to take action to turn his life around, but he is looking for a quick fix with immediate results, no matter the consequences.
Spencer's character was nothing short of amazing. The way the author was able to portray Spencer's feelings of self-loathing, fear, and loneliness on the pages of this book made the story absolutely heart wrenching to read. We were able to get inside his head and were able to see his rationalizations for his actions, and even though he knew the consequences of the steroids and could see them being played out with a negative impact on his health and his friendships, he still thought what he was doing was okay because it would help him get noticed, be liked by other people, and ultimately be somebody.
I loved that we were able to get to know Spencer pre-steroids and then were able to journey with him over the timeframe of the story, watching the consequences of his decisions play out and how those consequences, plus other external forces (family and friends), change his outlook on life as he eventually realizes that he may not be as alone in the world as he thought.
The best kind of book is one that leaves you thinking about it long after you've read the last word. Fix by Force is that kind of book. Ultimately, I am going to recommend this book to everyone I know, as it is the kind of story that every parent and teen should read.
Interview with Jason Warne!
http://makingconnectionsgroup.blogspo...
Spencer is a high school senior who feels insignificant and powerless. He comes from a dysfunctional family, including a verbally and occasionally physically abusive mother, and he is being bullied at school with no one to turn to for help. Spencer feels he is alone in the world with his pain, and his greatest fear is of turning into his much-hated father. Spencer realizes he needs to take action to turn his life around, but he is looking for a quick fix with immediate results, no matter the consequences.
Spencer's character was nothing short of amazing. The way the author was able to portray Spencer's feelings of self-loathing, fear, and loneliness on the pages of this book made the story absolutely heart wrenching to read. We were able to get inside his head and were able to see his rationalizations for his actions, and even though he knew the consequences of the steroids and could see them being played out with a negative impact on his health and his friendships, he still thought what he was doing was okay because it would help him get noticed, be liked by other people, and ultimately be somebody.
I loved that we were able to get to know Spencer pre-steroids and then were able to journey with him over the timeframe of the story, watching the consequences of his decisions play out and how those consequences, plus other external forces (family and friends), change his outlook on life as he eventually realizes that he may not be as alone in the world as he thought.
The best kind of book is one that leaves you thinking about it long after you've read the last word. Fix by Force is that kind of book. Ultimately, I am going to recommend this book to everyone I know, as it is the kind of story that every parent and teen should read.
Interview with Jason Warne!
http://makingconnectionsgroup.blogspo...
July 6, 2012
Quick review:
Cover: Perfect!
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: What a powerful message and a real life journey getting there
Characters: Solid
Plot: Story of how hard it is to beat the odds given the cards you’ve been dealt
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? N/A
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Spencer
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This isn’t a romance story. This is a young adult coming of age type story told from the male POV. It’s gritty and it’s not for the faint of heart. It’s realism at its best. The topics dealt with here are real and suffered by many. Raw and good. Read.
To see my full review and yummy pic, check out my blog post below.
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: Perfect!
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: What a powerful message and a real life journey getting there
Characters: Solid
Plot: Story of how hard it is to beat the odds given the cards you’ve been dealt
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? N/A
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Spencer
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This isn’t a romance story. This is a young adult coming of age type story told from the male POV. It’s gritty and it’s not for the faint of heart. It’s realism at its best. The topics dealt with here are real and suffered by many. Raw and good. Read.
To see my full review and yummy pic, check out my blog post below.
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
May 5, 2012
This book is well written and evoked a range of emotions in me. The writing is detailed and draws you infinite lives of the characters. I found myself hoping things would work out for them and could not put the book down. I will recommend it to teens and adults both. It is a must read!
December 3, 2012
Wow. I sucked this down in one sitting. I received this eBook from the author via Making Connection's ARR Program in exchange for an unbiased review. I was floored. While I didn't cry, this book still hit me like a ton of bricks.
There is actually a quote from the book that best captures the essence of its core more eloquently than I ever could...
"A good story though, is just that, a GOOD STORY. It's often written hastily and driven by emotion. It compels the reader to continue, and makes him feel like part of the experience. A good story, even complete fiction, delivers a truth of some kind... even if it's one that the reader isn't comfortable with."
The quote sums up the entire book. It did "compel" me to continue even through parts left me cringing. It's a heart wrenching journey of drugs and self discovery for Spencer. He is shadowed by the memory of his father; judged by others and himself by the sins and labels left in the wake of his father's death. Even years after his father's death, fate seems to have served Spencer a cold daily dose of the worst of humanity. Through Spencer's eyes, his journal, his dark path into steroids, the reader is swept along into the current.
I don't want to give anything away, but the ending was so emotional. I may not have cried, but my throat burned and my heart beat just for a moment along with Spencer's in empathy. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys YA fiction. While there are brief romantic touches here and there, don NOT expect a romance. It will stay with me for some time.
There is actually a quote from the book that best captures the essence of its core more eloquently than I ever could...
"A good story though, is just that, a GOOD STORY. It's often written hastily and driven by emotion. It compels the reader to continue, and makes him feel like part of the experience. A good story, even complete fiction, delivers a truth of some kind... even if it's one that the reader isn't comfortable with."
The quote sums up the entire book. It did "compel" me to continue even through parts left me cringing. It's a heart wrenching journey of drugs and self discovery for Spencer. He is shadowed by the memory of his father; judged by others and himself by the sins and labels left in the wake of his father's death. Even years after his father's death, fate seems to have served Spencer a cold daily dose of the worst of humanity. Through Spencer's eyes, his journal, his dark path into steroids, the reader is swept along into the current.
I don't want to give anything away, but the ending was so emotional. I may not have cried, but my throat burned and my heart beat just for a moment along with Spencer's in empathy. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys YA fiction. While there are brief romantic touches here and there, don NOT expect a romance. It will stay with me for some time.
July 22, 2013
This novel left me with a bit of a dilemma. It's extremely well written, and the characterizations are beautifully done. I enjoyed it a lot. But I wouldn't recommend it for the age level it's intended for, especially if you don't have time to read it, and discuss it with your kid. There were some thematic elements that emerged towards the end that were not ones I think would be healthy for a teenager, particularly a bullied teenager, to hear without a more thorough discussion.
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 24, 2013
'A good story though, is just that, a GOOD STORY. It’s often written hastily and driven by emotion. It compels the reader to continue, and makes him feel like part of the experience. A good story, even complete fiction, delivers a truth of some kind . . . even if it’s one that the reader isn’t comfortable with. That’s why this is such a good story, because it’s written for the reader; it’s written so he keeps reading. It’s written for truth, and that’s what he can understand. That’s what can be forgiven. Truth is what we can all appreciate, Mr. Shane, and it should be what we continue to live. Well done, Spencer.'
Wow, that was the first word that was crossing my mind when I finished the book. I will explain why.
I read the book on one day. I started reading 'Fix by Force' yesterday afternoon (the 22th of January 2013) and that same evening I finished the book. I just couldn't stop reading. The author knows how he has to keep the story exciting. Every time I had read a chapter I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
I also like books that are telling about certain problems in our society and personal problems. The story is about Spencer who is bullied at school by Zack. The bullying was in a certain way founded, because Spencer's dad killed Zack's mom in a car accident. On the other hand Spencer doesn't have to pay for his father's actions. The bullying goes so far that Spencer gets expelled and has to go to a special school for expelled kids. There happens a lot in that school. Spencer wants to become feared and popular and he starts taking steroids, but everything gets out of hand.
I like reading books about problems, because you can identify yourself with a character. I also had a period that I wanted to be more intelligent, so I do understand his urge to become feared. And that what makes the story realistic. You can recognize certain situations, you can understand how people feel and you can feel sympathy with the characters.
The only disadvantage I can say about 'Fix by Force' is that I think the expulsion school wasn't conform with the reality. I expected something else when I read that he had to go to an expulsion school. I expected severe teachers, worse fellow students,... It just didn't match with my idea of an expulsion school.
I choose a quote to start my review, because I consider this book as a good story and the quote embodies 'Fix by Force', because as a reader I wanted to continue reading and I felt part of the experience. So I would heavily recommend this book to others, because it is a good story. My compliments to the author!
I got the book from the author in return for a honest review.
Wow, that was the first word that was crossing my mind when I finished the book. I will explain why.
I read the book on one day. I started reading 'Fix by Force' yesterday afternoon (the 22th of January 2013) and that same evening I finished the book. I just couldn't stop reading. The author knows how he has to keep the story exciting. Every time I had read a chapter I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
I also like books that are telling about certain problems in our society and personal problems. The story is about Spencer who is bullied at school by Zack. The bullying was in a certain way founded, because Spencer's dad killed Zack's mom in a car accident. On the other hand Spencer doesn't have to pay for his father's actions. The bullying goes so far that Spencer gets expelled and has to go to a special school for expelled kids. There happens a lot in that school. Spencer wants to become feared and popular and he starts taking steroids, but everything gets out of hand.
I like reading books about problems, because you can identify yourself with a character. I also had a period that I wanted to be more intelligent, so I do understand his urge to become feared. And that what makes the story realistic. You can recognize certain situations, you can understand how people feel and you can feel sympathy with the characters.
The only disadvantage I can say about 'Fix by Force' is that I think the expulsion school wasn't conform with the reality. I expected something else when I read that he had to go to an expulsion school. I expected severe teachers, worse fellow students,... It just didn't match with my idea of an expulsion school.
I choose a quote to start my review, because I consider this book as a good story and the quote embodies 'Fix by Force', because as a reader I wanted to continue reading and I felt part of the experience. So I would heavily recommend this book to others, because it is a good story. My compliments to the author!
I got the book from the author in return for a honest review.
January 21, 2013
I wasn't sure what to expect when I read the description of this story, but I was pleasantly surprised.
The story revolves around a 16 yr old boy named Spencer. We learn early in the story that he hasn't had an easy life. Things happen within his family that are completely out of his control, but he stills feel responsible for the outcomes. It was a clear illustration of how it is easy to judge a group of people, like a family, by the characteristics of only one or two of the members of that group. His father was known as the town drunk and had killed the mother of one of his best friends, Zach, growing up. The story takes you through the challenges our kids face every day. As a mother of three boys, it was a reminder that while my day is stressful with work and other responsiblities as a parent, my sons' days are stressful in a completely different way. I don't think bullying is a new concept, but I think the outcomes of it have become more drastic, then when I was growing up.
While some may view this story as dark and not very uplifting, I found the story to be inspirational in that Spencer fought his way out of what everyone expected him to be, to what he wanted to be for himself. The female lead in the story, Janelle, also has a very strong influence, but like Spencer is typecast with very little real facts involved. The other message that stood out to me in the story is that everyone needs someone in their corner fighting for them. Sometimes its easier to just not get involved in difficult situations, but if it was us, we would hope someone cared enough to get involved.
Overall I definitely enjoyed the story and give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars!
I was provided this story by the author for an honest review...
The story revolves around a 16 yr old boy named Spencer. We learn early in the story that he hasn't had an easy life. Things happen within his family that are completely out of his control, but he stills feel responsible for the outcomes. It was a clear illustration of how it is easy to judge a group of people, like a family, by the characteristics of only one or two of the members of that group. His father was known as the town drunk and had killed the mother of one of his best friends, Zach, growing up. The story takes you through the challenges our kids face every day. As a mother of three boys, it was a reminder that while my day is stressful with work and other responsiblities as a parent, my sons' days are stressful in a completely different way. I don't think bullying is a new concept, but I think the outcomes of it have become more drastic, then when I was growing up.
While some may view this story as dark and not very uplifting, I found the story to be inspirational in that Spencer fought his way out of what everyone expected him to be, to what he wanted to be for himself. The female lead in the story, Janelle, also has a very strong influence, but like Spencer is typecast with very little real facts involved. The other message that stood out to me in the story is that everyone needs someone in their corner fighting for them. Sometimes its easier to just not get involved in difficult situations, but if it was us, we would hope someone cared enough to get involved.
Overall I definitely enjoyed the story and give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars!
I was provided this story by the author for an honest review...
May 21, 2012
At first glance Fix by Force is a classic bully-story filled with self-esteem issues, family life problems, and overwhelming emotion. But Jason Warne crafts the story in a way that really pulls you in, and before long you realize that you are Spencer. You are fighting against the temptation that is steroids, and you are trying to overcome labels and bullies. It's that truth that makes this fictional story so powerful. Maybe it's not steroids, maybe it's not bullies, but there is something that we each struggle with, and that makes Fix by Force an entirely applicable book that never stops grabbing at its readers' emotions.
Read the rest of my review on my blog at http://blogfulofbooks.blogspot.com/20...
Read the rest of my review on my blog at http://blogfulofbooks.blogspot.com/20...
May 18, 2012
Seventeen year old Spencer feels alone and isolated. His father died eight years ago in a car collision, a collision which killed a woman. Burdened with that knowledge and living in a small town where his father is despised, Spencer can't help but feel weak.
His relationship with his mother is abusive and disintegrating fast and he has no friends. He looks at himself and sees a feeble and insubstantial image. Is he predestined to be become his father? A potent mixture of fear, self-loathing and loneliness eventually leads to his use of drugs. Spencer needs to fix his life and he wants it to be immediate. The only way he knows how to become stronger and a force to be reckoned with is to inject himself with steroids. He's read about the side effects, he knows the dangers - he'll be fine. But little does he understand that these fixes maybe quick but it doesn't mean they're right.
Warne's debut novel is powerful, hard-hitting and beautifully written. I couldn't put this book down and read it in a day. From page one I was hooked (pardon the pun!) as to how this story will develop. I felt helpless as I 'watched' an intelligent young man, ripped apart emotionally by bullying and family circumstance, turn to drugs. I see how he gets to that decision but I still just wanted to reach in (to the book) to stop him from making this mistake.
The authors portrayal of being part of a dysfunctional family (an estranged uncle, a demonstrative mother battling her own demons), dealing with bullying and having low-self esteem are effortless. Together they combine to create a world that is flawed yet Spencer has an inner strength that he doesn't realize he has.
It's a gutsy and raw story but quietly so. The author told this descent in to despair completely from a seventeen years old viewpoint - his words, expressions, understandings. The profound sadness and quiet courage would have been lost if Warne had the reader hearing the voice of an adult. The characters in this short story are strong and well developed and I felt a lot of empathy for them all.
This book should become part of the curriculum for schools; it's the Lord of the Flies for today's generation - and by that I mean, this book shows how easily a young mind can convince themselves that what they're doing is right, that being bullied, feeling abandoned and lost can make them wonder down a path that's seems fine but is ultimately paved with horror. A very highly recommended read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed here are my own and I am not expected to give a positive review.
His relationship with his mother is abusive and disintegrating fast and he has no friends. He looks at himself and sees a feeble and insubstantial image. Is he predestined to be become his father? A potent mixture of fear, self-loathing and loneliness eventually leads to his use of drugs. Spencer needs to fix his life and he wants it to be immediate. The only way he knows how to become stronger and a force to be reckoned with is to inject himself with steroids. He's read about the side effects, he knows the dangers - he'll be fine. But little does he understand that these fixes maybe quick but it doesn't mean they're right.
Warne's debut novel is powerful, hard-hitting and beautifully written. I couldn't put this book down and read it in a day. From page one I was hooked (pardon the pun!) as to how this story will develop. I felt helpless as I 'watched' an intelligent young man, ripped apart emotionally by bullying and family circumstance, turn to drugs. I see how he gets to that decision but I still just wanted to reach in (to the book) to stop him from making this mistake.
The authors portrayal of being part of a dysfunctional family (an estranged uncle, a demonstrative mother battling her own demons), dealing with bullying and having low-self esteem are effortless. Together they combine to create a world that is flawed yet Spencer has an inner strength that he doesn't realize he has.
It's a gutsy and raw story but quietly so. The author told this descent in to despair completely from a seventeen years old viewpoint - his words, expressions, understandings. The profound sadness and quiet courage would have been lost if Warne had the reader hearing the voice of an adult. The characters in this short story are strong and well developed and I felt a lot of empathy for them all.
This book should become part of the curriculum for schools; it's the Lord of the Flies for today's generation - and by that I mean, this book shows how easily a young mind can convince themselves that what they're doing is right, that being bullied, feeling abandoned and lost can make them wonder down a path that's seems fine but is ultimately paved with horror. A very highly recommended read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed here are my own and I am not expected to give a positive review.
May 24, 2012
Knock it out of the ballpark! I loved this book more than I can tell you. Talk about drama and emotions running wild. Spencer is one confused teenager who is living with his mother while she is off on some emotional trip herself. While he thinks he has her all figured out, she isn’t all he thought she was. Then there is his father, the person Spencer thought he knew but in reality, did he really know him? When it all comes down to the truth of his real life, Spencer life was not the “massive screenplay with a role for everyone” that he thought it was. Spencer tried to blend in at school but the actions of this family made him center stage and he was bullied at school. It was as though, some eyes were covered and no adults wanted to confront the actions which I think helped Spencer become the person he became in the book. The emotions were so real and powerful and I cringed at some of Spencer’s actions. I felt his struggle and his attempt to be someone. His attempt to not fall between the cracks, his attempts to finally hold his head up, his attempts to be noticed for something, his attempts to be noticed period. What a powerful story. Yes, he took the easy way, but it was the only escape route he saw at that moment and he needed to escape now- he was desperate. In the end, he lived. I mean he really learned what it means to live.
November 17, 2014
First off, I received this book in exchange for an honest review. It has been a very long time since I have read such a poignant, intense and thought provoking story. It was an emotional roller coaster of a read, very powerful and engaging. I am glad I decided to pick it up and become lost in the pages.
In this story our main character Spenser who is 17, is fighting a lot of demons. This is his story and how he strives to overcomes those demons that haunt him everyday. Things like death, bullying, and steroids. A story that makes you realize, as you read, that so many teens and young adults are battling much the same demons as Spenser. And not everyone will reach out for help.
I have never felt such harsh emotions from a book. From every page turn I felt like my emotions were pushed to their limits. Love, hate, fear, and rage to name a few. Such beautiful writing, and beautifully created characters. Such a realistic read with realistic characters that many readers can connect to in one way or another. It all felt so true and real but whether this book is a work of fiction or non-fiction doesn't matter because we all know that so many people in this world today are afflicted as Spenser is.
I recommend this book to everyone because I feel like it needs to be read and it needs to be shared with others.
In this story our main character Spenser who is 17, is fighting a lot of demons. This is his story and how he strives to overcomes those demons that haunt him everyday. Things like death, bullying, and steroids. A story that makes you realize, as you read, that so many teens and young adults are battling much the same demons as Spenser. And not everyone will reach out for help.
I have never felt such harsh emotions from a book. From every page turn I felt like my emotions were pushed to their limits. Love, hate, fear, and rage to name a few. Such beautiful writing, and beautifully created characters. Such a realistic read with realistic characters that many readers can connect to in one way or another. It all felt so true and real but whether this book is a work of fiction or non-fiction doesn't matter because we all know that so many people in this world today are afflicted as Spenser is.
I recommend this book to everyone because I feel like it needs to be read and it needs to be shared with others.
May 14, 2012
Few story's this short can make such an emotional impact as "Fix by Force". Jason paints a vivid landscape of a character "Spencer"; who is neither hero or villain, but an average teenager. It is easy to become attached with Spencer because he represents so many aspects of who we are/were as an average teenager trying to find their niche.
This book doesn't sugarcoat what kids are forced to deal with and that situations just don't solve themselves with a happy ending. The writer displays situations in the book so well it's almost as if he is relating to events in his own or even our own lives as teens. The struggles with steroid use was very informative, with a touch of intimacy toward the subject. Whether it be experimenting or knowing people who have.
This is absolutely a must read book, simply because it is a compelling story. The shortness of the story makes it even more convenient to resist putting it down. When it comes to books that I read multiple times, "Fix by Force" will be enrolled in this short exclusive list. Thanks Jason.
April 18, 2012
I was super excited at the idea of reading this book, written by an old friend from what seems like forever ago! I was even more excited when I got into it and found myself relating to certain characters and really getting engrossed in the story! Spencer has some truly heartbreaking moments, I felt sad for him, was angry with him, and had quite a few happy "a-ha" moments with him! His journey to finding himself ,in spite of getting in his own way many times, was inspiring. :) Definitely a GOOD read! Kudos Jason!
April 8, 2012
I was completely drawn into Jason Warne's teen novel about self image and steroid abuse. His authentic characters and fast-paced plot full of unexpected twists kept me flipping the pages to find out what happened next. His story is not for the faint-hearted, but for those eager to see the truth of steroids revealed, and those open minded enough to see people for who they truly are, not for who we perceive them to be.
August 22, 2018
Easy read for teens and young adults. The book inspires true emotions everyone can relate to. The brilliant characters encourage you to find and accept yourself, while reminding us that choices are always perfect. A pleasing, authentic emotional roller coaster of a page turner. In fiction, there is truth. Well done, Jason!
April 13, 2012
SO impressive! Very emotionally detailed. You are able to almost become the character; feel his emotions. All the background information is laid perfectly in place to make the rest of the story make complete sense! A must-read!!
August 24, 2019
I want to open this review with a quote from the actual book. This quote is from near the end of the book, and I don't think it spoilers, but beware anyhow:
"Too many young writers waste time backspacing through mistakes and overanalyzing the appearance of the words they've written. A good story though, is just that, a GOOD STORY. It's often written hastily and driven by emotion. It compels the reader to continue, and makes him feel like part of the experience."
Having said that: This book personifies that. I was pulled in right from the get-go and I loved every single page of it. Fix by Force starts with Spencer's daily activities, brutal bullying included. Physical bullying, which I have no experiences with, included. I do however have pretty extensive knowledge of mental bullying and it was expertly done in this book. I was about to write "written", but even though it is in fact written, it doesn't feel like that to the reader. It feels like one is looking directly into Spencer's head.
Even though he is quite obviously wrong in most of his ways of thinking for a great part of the book, the reasoning made a lot of sense to me because I was able to think myself into the character. All the characters - even the minor ones - were build very well and I think we all know people who are maybe a bit like Zack or Tay. I remember someone saying that he couldn't understand why victims of bullying are jealous of their bullies. I was always jealous of the girl who bullied me in school, down to every fiber of my body. And I also hate her a lot, still. So that's why I - in my situation - would not have reacted the same way that Spencer did in the end.
But you know what? It made so much sense for Spencer. Everything he had become and everything he didn't want to be made the ending so perfect. I can recommend this book to teens and adults alike. It doesn't downplay the abuse of steroids in any way, as many books do in my opinion, and it also shows that while you may think that you are lost and are not worth anything the way you are right now, that you are always wrong. Always. Because there is going to be someone in your life that values you a lot.
So read this book, it's very great. In my opinion, very much on parr with books like If I Stay, or even Forbidden - though not in the obvious way. Fix by Force very much deals with emotional as well as environmental issues of teens these days and I love how it is done!
"Too many young writers waste time backspacing through mistakes and overanalyzing the appearance of the words they've written. A good story though, is just that, a GOOD STORY. It's often written hastily and driven by emotion. It compels the reader to continue, and makes him feel like part of the experience."
Having said that: This book personifies that. I was pulled in right from the get-go and I loved every single page of it. Fix by Force starts with Spencer's daily activities, brutal bullying included. Physical bullying, which I have no experiences with, included. I do however have pretty extensive knowledge of mental bullying and it was expertly done in this book. I was about to write "written", but even though it is in fact written, it doesn't feel like that to the reader. It feels like one is looking directly into Spencer's head.
Even though he is quite obviously wrong in most of his ways of thinking for a great part of the book, the reasoning made a lot of sense to me because I was able to think myself into the character. All the characters - even the minor ones - were build very well and I think we all know people who are maybe a bit like Zack or Tay. I remember someone saying that he couldn't understand why victims of bullying are jealous of their bullies. I was always jealous of the girl who bullied me in school, down to every fiber of my body. And I also hate her a lot, still. So that's why I - in my situation - would not have reacted the same way that Spencer did in the end.
But you know what? It made so much sense for Spencer. Everything he had become and everything he didn't want to be made the ending so perfect. I can recommend this book to teens and adults alike. It doesn't downplay the abuse of steroids in any way, as many books do in my opinion, and it also shows that while you may think that you are lost and are not worth anything the way you are right now, that you are always wrong. Always. Because there is going to be someone in your life that values you a lot.
So read this book, it's very great. In my opinion, very much on parr with books like If I Stay, or even Forbidden - though not in the obvious way. Fix by Force very much deals with emotional as well as environmental issues of teens these days and I love how it is done!
August 5, 2012
This book is a must-read for teens going through any kind of emotional problems and such.
Spencer comes from a not-so-good family. Okay. Scratch that. His dad is widely hated in the neighborhood, and it's not a surprise that the neighbors were very thankful when he finally died. His mother has not given him any support over school or anything at all. Okay. So technically, he's alone in this world. What's worse is that his best friend, Zach, was bullying him because of the death of his mother (which was because of Spencer's mother).
I immediately pitied Spencer, because seriously, how much more can the teenage boy around our age take? It's like he's an ant being stepped on repeatedly in this big, crazy world. He was wretched, with no one to hold him or guide him through. So, he chose to make it through the easiest way. Of all things possible, he decided to take steroids.
Well, no one can really blame him. How do you survive in this world without any company? It wasn't really surprising that he ran for the easiest solution he could think of. But it wasn't really that funny, either. He soon realizes the consequences for his actions and how wrong they are. And how, most times, we don't really get the solutions to our problems in the easiest way possible--like trying to escape them by using drugs.
The journey of Spencer leads us to the conclusion that if things go wrong, we should always back up ourselves, no matter how many people will leave or hurt you. We shouldn't give up that easily or take the easiest way to a problem, because it's just a way of escaping the reality of life. Fixing things that way won't help us, especially if you're still at a very young age and is starting to develop your character. The lesson is to always stay strong and believe in ourselves, even if no one believes in us. Suicide or drugs are not solutions. They're just a way of escaping the reality, which may be horrible. Facing the problem, and fixing them in the right way, would make us stronger and much more knowledgeable about life.
Thanks to the author for providing yet another story about strength and endurance, and, of course, growing up. Cheers!
Spencer comes from a not-so-good family. Okay. Scratch that. His dad is widely hated in the neighborhood, and it's not a surprise that the neighbors were very thankful when he finally died. His mother has not given him any support over school or anything at all. Okay. So technically, he's alone in this world. What's worse is that his best friend, Zach, was bullying him because of the death of his mother (which was because of Spencer's mother).
I immediately pitied Spencer, because seriously, how much more can the teenage boy around our age take? It's like he's an ant being stepped on repeatedly in this big, crazy world. He was wretched, with no one to hold him or guide him through. So, he chose to make it through the easiest way. Of all things possible, he decided to take steroids.
Well, no one can really blame him. How do you survive in this world without any company? It wasn't really surprising that he ran for the easiest solution he could think of. But it wasn't really that funny, either. He soon realizes the consequences for his actions and how wrong they are. And how, most times, we don't really get the solutions to our problems in the easiest way possible--like trying to escape them by using drugs.
The journey of Spencer leads us to the conclusion that if things go wrong, we should always back up ourselves, no matter how many people will leave or hurt you. We shouldn't give up that easily or take the easiest way to a problem, because it's just a way of escaping the reality of life. Fixing things that way won't help us, especially if you're still at a very young age and is starting to develop your character. The lesson is to always stay strong and believe in ourselves, even if no one believes in us. Suicide or drugs are not solutions. They're just a way of escaping the reality, which may be horrible. Facing the problem, and fixing them in the right way, would make us stronger and much more knowledgeable about life.
Thanks to the author for providing yet another story about strength and endurance, and, of course, growing up. Cheers!
May 20, 2012
If you want a book teaching you how to get a hold of steroids and use them improperly while living the drama-filled life of a 15-year-old boy, this is the book for you.
Spencer Shane has had a horrific life. His dad was a jerk and an alcoholic. His mom was a hard-core drug user. Spencer was small, good at nothing, and picked on by the bullies. All his life he wanted to rewrite the script he was living. When he discovered a secret stash of steroids (that get him expelled, btw) at his house, he finds a way to solve all his problems. He finds a way to escape his life and prove once and for all that he is better than his dad.
Only, as all things do when you’re the protagonist in a book for YA about discovering yourself, everything backfires. Spencer finds more about his secret-filled past and comes to terms with who he is all the while using steroids.
Okay. First of all, I did not like this book. Spencer bugged me. I didn’t even feel sorry for him, I just outright didn’t like him. He was another one of those mopey teenage boys that sits around in misery and wallows in self-pity. I HATE THAT.
Second of all, steroids. Seriously? Steroids? If a teenager wanted to get their hands on steroids, this book could give them step-by-step instructions on how to. Doesn’t society have enough problems without all the teenagers who read this deciding to go use steroids?
Ultimately, I didn’t even want to read this book once I started it. I had to force myself to read one chapter at a time (fortunately the chapters were fairly short), and even that was painful.
Unless you’re a teenager confused about how to find steroids, I wouldn’t recommend this book. And even if you were a teenager confused about how to find steroids, I wouldn’t recommend this book.
(Note: I got this book for free through Booksneeze).
Spencer Shane has had a horrific life. His dad was a jerk and an alcoholic. His mom was a hard-core drug user. Spencer was small, good at nothing, and picked on by the bullies. All his life he wanted to rewrite the script he was living. When he discovered a secret stash of steroids (that get him expelled, btw) at his house, he finds a way to solve all his problems. He finds a way to escape his life and prove once and for all that he is better than his dad.
Only, as all things do when you’re the protagonist in a book for YA about discovering yourself, everything backfires. Spencer finds more about his secret-filled past and comes to terms with who he is all the while using steroids.
Okay. First of all, I did not like this book. Spencer bugged me. I didn’t even feel sorry for him, I just outright didn’t like him. He was another one of those mopey teenage boys that sits around in misery and wallows in self-pity. I HATE THAT.
Second of all, steroids. Seriously? Steroids? If a teenager wanted to get their hands on steroids, this book could give them step-by-step instructions on how to. Doesn’t society have enough problems without all the teenagers who read this deciding to go use steroids?
Ultimately, I didn’t even want to read this book once I started it. I had to force myself to read one chapter at a time (fortunately the chapters were fairly short), and even that was painful.
Unless you’re a teenager confused about how to find steroids, I wouldn’t recommend this book. And even if you were a teenager confused about how to find steroids, I wouldn’t recommend this book.
(Note: I got this book for free through Booksneeze).
May 23, 2012
I stayed up until 2 o'clock in the morning to finish reading this book, that speaks for itself. Fix by Force was definitely enlightening about the psych of someone on steroids or considering steroids. Prior to reading this book I just assumed that the only people who took steroids egotistical meatheads, but Jason Warne's story told me otherwise.
Spencer has low self-esteem, feels disconnected and hates being compared to his father, the town's enemy.
What I really liked about this book was how it went against stereotypes, the steroid user wasn't the already big quarterback who just wanted to bulk up or the new-start school he went to wasn't filled with only deliquents, there were also students who just made a mistake. When Spencer goes to the New Start school and is a new environment he starts changing, getting violent, throwing punches for almost no reason but it isn't because of the influence of his peers it's because of the steroids.
I really liked this book a lot more than I had expected to, Spencer was a believable character and at times really relatable, going through high school and feeling like you just don't fit in or having bullies.
Jason Warne's writting style was great and I found myself thinking 'this is an awesome book, I'm gonna have to check out other books by this author.' At the Dodge scene (don't worry no spoilers) I almost started crying, not just because I'm such a crybaby but because Warne knew how to captivate that moment and the emotions that Spencer was feeling perfectly.
I recommend this book for any teen or adult, it's perspective-changing and can teach you a thing or two.
Spencer has low self-esteem, feels disconnected and hates being compared to his father, the town's enemy.
What I really liked about this book was how it went against stereotypes, the steroid user wasn't the already big quarterback who just wanted to bulk up or the new-start school he went to wasn't filled with only deliquents, there were also students who just made a mistake. When Spencer goes to the New Start school and is a new environment he starts changing, getting violent, throwing punches for almost no reason but it isn't because of the influence of his peers it's because of the steroids.
I really liked this book a lot more than I had expected to, Spencer was a believable character and at times really relatable, going through high school and feeling like you just don't fit in or having bullies.
Jason Warne's writting style was great and I found myself thinking 'this is an awesome book, I'm gonna have to check out other books by this author.' At the Dodge scene (don't worry no spoilers) I almost started crying, not just because I'm such a crybaby but because Warne knew how to captivate that moment and the emotions that Spencer was feeling perfectly.
I recommend this book for any teen or adult, it's perspective-changing and can teach you a thing or two.
January 24, 2013
I received a copy of this book from the author for free in return for an honest review. I do not know the author personally.
I can’t say that I loved this book in the way that I would ordinarily describe how much I enjoyed a story. Love is just not the right word to use. This doesn't mean I didn't enjoy the book - I did, immensely, it just hasn't left me with an upbeat feeling on finishing it. Having said that, Fix by Force is an amazing story that I am very glad to have read.
Told from the perspective of Spencer, a teenage boy grappling with who he is and who he wants to be, this story is profound, sad, inspiring, depressing, wonderful and horrible.
Spencer’s story is one that many young people will relate to – managing the challenges of fitting in at school, being judged by the actions of others, dealing with bullying, drugs, unhappiness at home. But Spencer’s story is also one of possibilities, choices and finding a way to be the best he can be.
Jason Warne has done a wonderful job telling Spencer’s story. He has created characters with depth and strength that inspire you to be better than you are – and to seek to make a difference for others. I think this should be a must read for all late-teens, so that they can understand how their behaviour impacts others, that they are not alone in how they are feeling and to encourage them to seek support whenever they need it.
I can’t say that I loved this book in the way that I would ordinarily describe how much I enjoyed a story. Love is just not the right word to use. This doesn't mean I didn't enjoy the book - I did, immensely, it just hasn't left me with an upbeat feeling on finishing it. Having said that, Fix by Force is an amazing story that I am very glad to have read.
Told from the perspective of Spencer, a teenage boy grappling with who he is and who he wants to be, this story is profound, sad, inspiring, depressing, wonderful and horrible.
Spencer’s story is one that many young people will relate to – managing the challenges of fitting in at school, being judged by the actions of others, dealing with bullying, drugs, unhappiness at home. But Spencer’s story is also one of possibilities, choices and finding a way to be the best he can be.
Jason Warne has done a wonderful job telling Spencer’s story. He has created characters with depth and strength that inspire you to be better than you are – and to seek to make a difference for others. I think this should be a must read for all late-teens, so that they can understand how their behaviour impacts others, that they are not alone in how they are feeling and to encourage them to seek support whenever they need it.
July 24, 2012
Spencer is entering senior year in high school. A loner, an outcast, and an athlete, he never quite fits in...no matter how hard he tries. He's always searching for ways to fix himself. And Zach--who is everything that Spencer wishes he could be--especially has it in for him, Spencer has one goal his senior year: lay low and graduate.
Yeah, like *that's* gonna happen!
This cover is so right for this story.
This book is not an action-packed, on-the-edge-of-your-seat action thriller. It's an introspective look at a bullied loner's downward spiral into aggression and addiction. It highlights the lengths some kids will go to to fix themselves so that they can fit in with the crowd.
This story takes an in-depth look at how one teenager, Spencer, views his life, his family, and himself. He carries the emotional baggage from childhood through adolescence, seeing only what he thinks everyone else must see. No matter how hard he tries to fix himself, the image in the mirror never changes. It takes a series of traumatic events before Spencer can shatter that image and see what's been reflecting back at him all along.
I did sense a little author intrusion toward the end, a 'this is a life lesson' kind of thing, but that by no means detracts from the over-all story. This is a pretty dynamic read, and one that I recommend to readers of all agges.
Yeah, like *that's* gonna happen!
This cover is so right for this story.
This book is not an action-packed, on-the-edge-of-your-seat action thriller. It's an introspective look at a bullied loner's downward spiral into aggression and addiction. It highlights the lengths some kids will go to to fix themselves so that they can fit in with the crowd.
This story takes an in-depth look at how one teenager, Spencer, views his life, his family, and himself. He carries the emotional baggage from childhood through adolescence, seeing only what he thinks everyone else must see. No matter how hard he tries to fix himself, the image in the mirror never changes. It takes a series of traumatic events before Spencer can shatter that image and see what's been reflecting back at him all along.
I did sense a little author intrusion toward the end, a 'this is a life lesson' kind of thing, but that by no means detracts from the over-all story. This is a pretty dynamic read, and one that I recommend to readers of all agges.
February 11, 2022
Wow, after just finishing this story, I'm speechless. This book played with my emotions so bad that I had to keep flipping through the pages. It was so sad and moving and dark that I'm not sure how to even describe this book, other then i enjoyed it tremendously. The pages are filled with emotion from start to finish, and a few sections made me tear up.....wow.
The story follows a 17 year old boy, Spencer, who's father killed the mother of guy he goes to school with (Zack) after drunk driving when Spencer was young. Zack for 8 years following bullies and torments Spencer day after day and a few times beats him up so bad he endures substantial injuries. While this happens at school, Spencer endures an unhappy home life as well, drowning him in misery at every turn.
Eventually, Spencer turns to using steroids to give himself immediate change in an attempt to quickly change his appearance so that he will be feared and no longer bullied.
Fixed by Force, follows Spencer on emotional journey through his life and his battles with not only steroids but his family, enemies, and the darkness and resentment that lives within him.
The story follows a 17 year old boy, Spencer, who's father killed the mother of guy he goes to school with (Zack) after drunk driving when Spencer was young. Zack for 8 years following bullies and torments Spencer day after day and a few times beats him up so bad he endures substantial injuries. While this happens at school, Spencer endures an unhappy home life as well, drowning him in misery at every turn.
Eventually, Spencer turns to using steroids to give himself immediate change in an attempt to quickly change his appearance so that he will be feared and no longer bullied.
Fixed by Force, follows Spencer on emotional journey through his life and his battles with not only steroids but his family, enemies, and the darkness and resentment that lives within him.
May 16, 2012
I won this book through goodread's giveaway and so thankful that I did. This little novel surprised me; Jason Warne did a fantastic job. The story was interesting and kept me turning the pages. Fix by Force is a story we can all relate to in one way or the other. Kids are cruel, life is cruel for that matter. Jason tells a sad, and very realistic story of a boy bullied at school and at home. The plot of the book is how the boy deals and copes with life as a teenager where the cards are stacked against him. Unfortunately, he turns to steroids to try and "fix" himself. I felt for the characters, and found myself emotionally investing in them. There are important messages in the pages of Fix by Force and every teenager boy should read this.
I will be waiting to see what is next from Jason Warne.
I will be waiting to see what is next from Jason Warne.
June 3, 2014
Fix by Force is the emotional journey of a teenage boy who is trying to overcome his disturbing past and strive for a better future.
Spencer,a seventeen year old, who has been the town pariah since his addict father killed a fellow student's mom. Spencer has to endure both physical and emotional abuse from his mother who constantly compares him to his father. This abuse extends to school where Zach,whose mother was killed by Spencer's father, has made his life a living hell. Spencer is overwhelmed by fear and depression. He is looking for a quick fix and thinks he finds one in steroids. Will steroids be the solution he is looking for or a path to destruction?
The author was able to draw me in through his descriptive details and characters who continue to develop as the story unfolds. This is a moving story that I would highly recommend.
Spencer,a seventeen year old, who has been the town pariah since his addict father killed a fellow student's mom. Spencer has to endure both physical and emotional abuse from his mother who constantly compares him to his father. This abuse extends to school where Zach,whose mother was killed by Spencer's father, has made his life a living hell. Spencer is overwhelmed by fear and depression. He is looking for a quick fix and thinks he finds one in steroids. Will steroids be the solution he is looking for or a path to destruction?
The author was able to draw me in through his descriptive details and characters who continue to develop as the story unfolds. This is a moving story that I would highly recommend.
January 25, 2013
I went into Fix by Force thinking, hey, its less than 200 pages, this should be quick. However, I found this was not so. The pace was incredibly slow as it follwed Spencer's thoughts and feelings. Spencer's veiw of his own body is similar to that of books that have characters with eating disorders in them and while this view is predominantly female in the books I've read, it was interesting to see the male perspective. I found Spencer's perspective over all realistic. Our feelings and assumptions often color our views and memories and I liked how this book explored that. The character's themselves were three demensional characters, and with some interesting, though for the mos part predictable, plot twists and memorable quotes of what it means to write a good story, I found myself enjoying what this book has to offer.
February 4, 2013
There are some books that I just can't bring myself to finish. This one was one of them. Although, I enjoyed how overall realistic this was, the pacing was extremely slow. Following Spencer's thoughts were tedious, and I found that I could not even pay attention to the book at most times. I appreciate Warne's effort at making an intriguing and realistic story, but it lacked in action and other things I usually enjoy.
The main reason I probably didn't enjoy this was because I don't particularly like realistic fiction. The topics addressed in this book, however, made me think more about other people around me, than myself. I sympathized with Spencer, and really appreciated how strong of a character he was, which is why I'm not giving this book 1 or 2 stars.
The main reason I probably didn't enjoy this was because I don't particularly like realistic fiction. The topics addressed in this book, however, made me think more about other people around me, than myself. I sympathized with Spencer, and really appreciated how strong of a character he was, which is why I'm not giving this book 1 or 2 stars.
February 4, 2013
"Not everything that's broken can be fixed."
This is the story of Spencer, high school senior, alone, afraid and weak. From a dysfunctional home and bullied at school, feeling worthless and looking for acceptance he turns to "chemical salvation" in the form of steroids.
A great emotional and inspiring journey from beginning to end. Well written and realistic, a must read for any young adult.
"My choices were for me, for my benefit, and that was what I could do now. I could do what was best for me."
This is the story of Spencer, high school senior, alone, afraid and weak. From a dysfunctional home and bullied at school, feeling worthless and looking for acceptance he turns to "chemical salvation" in the form of steroids.
A great emotional and inspiring journey from beginning to end. Well written and realistic, a must read for any young adult.
"My choices were for me, for my benefit, and that was what I could do now. I could do what was best for me."
May 18, 2012
Absolutely, positively the BEST BOOK I've read in a long, long time. This book is now one of my all-time favourites.
Full review [HERE].
Full review [HERE].
June 21, 2012
I was almost finished with this book last night before I forced myself to stop reading and go to bed. As I was laying there waiting for sleep to overtake me, I kept thinking of all the things I wanted to put in this review. But today, after actually finishing Fix by Force, I’m just sitting here so full of raw and tangled emotions that I can’t even think rationally. This story has literally robbed me of all thought and left me with nothing but feelings.
Why aren’t there more books out there with this kind of power?
Okay, trying to pull myself together here so that this will make sense, but it’s proving difficult. I think the reason this book touched me so much is because it focused on a subject that has always been near and dear to me. No, I was never bullied in school, like Spencer, but I’ve seen a lot of people that were. I watched them silently suffer. (This was many years before anyone would ever hear the phrase Columbine massacre – back when suffering in silence was the only option.) I’d watch these victims struggle daily, many of them trying so desperately to keep smiling through it all. What strength they really possessed. What courage to keep coming to school day after day. What power and self-restraint they held.
I was always able to see inside these people. Feel their pain. I ached for them. It also put me in a terrible position. Did I stick up for them and risk being ridiculed as well? Sometimes I did, but I’m ashamed to say that there were more times when I did nothing.
This book, Fix by Force, makes me wish I’d stood up more often. It makes me realize how important it is that victims of bullies know that not everyone thinks they are a loser and worthless. I never thought they were, but I seldom let them know what I really did see in them. I’m just really regretting that right now. When a person, or group of people, are directly in your face, telling you how horrible you are, it would be impossible to see all the other people out there that do not feel that same way about you. And it’s just not right, or fair, that so many victims destroy themselves, in one way or another, when there really are lots of people that do not feel like their bullies do about them. Among many other things, Fixed by Force illustrates that idea quite beautifully.
Okay, now that I’ve got that out of my system, on to the book itself. I love the cover! I said this in an update, but I want a poster size copy of it. It displays such vulnerability, yet such strength. Perfect!
I have no tie whatsoever to the author and was not solicited to read this book. I simply found it on Goodreads, was drawn to it by the cover and after reading the description, bought the Ebook. I recommend everyone do the same. Jason Warne has done an excellent job bringing Spencer to life, making his story so believable and have it move quickly enough to avoid loss of interest. And – oh my gosh – so many of those chapter endings leave you with your heart in your throat. There were tons of little phrases throughout the book that had me stopping to write them down because they evoked so much. I loved the last line of the book!! I won’t give any spoilers, but Jason Warne is a writer after my own heart. I wished all my books could end with a punch like that.
I hope Jason has something else in the works. Can’t wait to read more from him. I start dozens of books, but rarely find one I can finish. This one was easy.
Why aren’t there more books out there with this kind of power?
Okay, trying to pull myself together here so that this will make sense, but it’s proving difficult. I think the reason this book touched me so much is because it focused on a subject that has always been near and dear to me. No, I was never bullied in school, like Spencer, but I’ve seen a lot of people that were. I watched them silently suffer. (This was many years before anyone would ever hear the phrase Columbine massacre – back when suffering in silence was the only option.) I’d watch these victims struggle daily, many of them trying so desperately to keep smiling through it all. What strength they really possessed. What courage to keep coming to school day after day. What power and self-restraint they held.
I was always able to see inside these people. Feel their pain. I ached for them. It also put me in a terrible position. Did I stick up for them and risk being ridiculed as well? Sometimes I did, but I’m ashamed to say that there were more times when I did nothing.
This book, Fix by Force, makes me wish I’d stood up more often. It makes me realize how important it is that victims of bullies know that not everyone thinks they are a loser and worthless. I never thought they were, but I seldom let them know what I really did see in them. I’m just really regretting that right now. When a person, or group of people, are directly in your face, telling you how horrible you are, it would be impossible to see all the other people out there that do not feel that same way about you. And it’s just not right, or fair, that so many victims destroy themselves, in one way or another, when there really are lots of people that do not feel like their bullies do about them. Among many other things, Fixed by Force illustrates that idea quite beautifully.
Okay, now that I’ve got that out of my system, on to the book itself. I love the cover! I said this in an update, but I want a poster size copy of it. It displays such vulnerability, yet such strength. Perfect!
I have no tie whatsoever to the author and was not solicited to read this book. I simply found it on Goodreads, was drawn to it by the cover and after reading the description, bought the Ebook. I recommend everyone do the same. Jason Warne has done an excellent job bringing Spencer to life, making his story so believable and have it move quickly enough to avoid loss of interest. And – oh my gosh – so many of those chapter endings leave you with your heart in your throat. There were tons of little phrases throughout the book that had me stopping to write them down because they evoked so much. I loved the last line of the book!! I won’t give any spoilers, but Jason Warne is a writer after my own heart. I wished all my books could end with a punch like that.
I hope Jason has something else in the works. Can’t wait to read more from him. I start dozens of books, but rarely find one I can finish. This one was easy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews