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Desert #1
Desert Rice
Samantha Jean Haggert is a beautiful twelve-year-old girl—but no one knows it. All they see is an awkward boy in a baseball cap and baggy pants. Sam’s not thrilled with the idea of hiding her identity, but it’s all part of her older brother’s plan to keep Sam safe from male attention and hidden from the law. Fifteen-year-old Jacob will stop at nothing to protect his sister, including concealing the death of the one person who should have protected them in the first place—their mother.
Sam and Jacob try to outrun their past by stealing the family car and traveling from West Virginia to Arizona, but the adult world proves mighty difficult to navigate, especially for two kids on their own. Trusting adults has never been an option; no adult has ever given them a good reason. But when Sam meets “Jesus”—who smells an awful lot like a horse—in the park, life takes a different turn. He saved her once, and may be willing to save Sam and her brother again, if only they admit what took place that fateful day in West Virginia. The problem? Sam doesn’t remember, and Jacob isn’t talking.
Sam and Jacob try to outrun their past by stealing the family car and traveling from West Virginia to Arizona, but the adult world proves mighty difficult to navigate, especially for two kids on their own. Trusting adults has never been an option; no adult has ever given them a good reason. But when Sam meets “Jesus”—who smells an awful lot like a horse—in the park, life takes a different turn. He saved her once, and may be willing to save Sam and her brother again, if only they admit what took place that fateful day in West Virginia. The problem? Sam doesn’t remember, and Jacob isn’t talking.
225 pages, Paperback
First published August 6, 2012
3 people are currently reading
1771 people want to read
About the author
Angela Scott
14 books568 followersI hear voices. Tiny fictional people sit on my shoulders and whisper their stories in my ear. Instead of medicating myself, I decided to pick up a pen, write down everything those voices tell me, and turn it into a book. I’m not crazy. I’m an author.
For the most part, I write contemporary Young Adult novels. However, through a writing exercise that spiraled out of control, I found myself writing about zombies terrorizing the Wild Wild West—and loving it. My zombies don’t sparkle, and they definitely don’t cuddle. At least, I wouldn’t suggest it.
I live on the benches of the beautiful Wasatch Mountains with two lovely children, one teenager, and a very patient husband. I graduated from Utah State University with a B.A. degree in English, not because of my love for the written word, but because it was the only major that didn’t require math. I can’t spell, and grammar is my arch nemesis. But they gave me the degree, and there are no take backs.
As a child, I never sucked on a pacifier; I chewed on a pencil. I’ve been writing that long. It has only been the past few years that I’ve pursued it professionally, forged relationships with other like-minded individuals, and determined to make a career out of it.
For the most part, I write contemporary Young Adult novels. However, through a writing exercise that spiraled out of control, I found myself writing about zombies terrorizing the Wild Wild West—and loving it. My zombies don’t sparkle, and they definitely don’t cuddle. At least, I wouldn’t suggest it.
I live on the benches of the beautiful Wasatch Mountains with two lovely children, one teenager, and a very patient husband. I graduated from Utah State University with a B.A. degree in English, not because of my love for the written word, but because it was the only major that didn’t require math. I can’t spell, and grammar is my arch nemesis. But they gave me the degree, and there are no take backs.
As a child, I never sucked on a pacifier; I chewed on a pencil. I’ve been writing that long. It has only been the past few years that I’ve pursued it professionally, forged relationships with other like-minded individuals, and determined to make a career out of it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 26, 2019
4 and 1/2 stars...
Oh Samantha Jean, you touched my heart...and Jacob too, even though for a boy you acted just like a typical man, but those were the circumstances you were thrown into. This is one of the those exceptional stories for me. It flowed wondrously and I really want to read the second one.
Oh Samantha Jean, you touched my heart...and Jacob too, even though for a boy you acted just like a typical man, but those were the circumstances you were thrown into. This is one of the those exceptional stories for me. It flowed wondrously and I really want to read the second one.
July 29, 2012
This story packs a real emotional punch. Samantha, the teenage protagonist, will grab onto your heart, and she won't let go.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves Upper YA or Literary Fiction.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves Upper YA or Literary Fiction.
August 25, 2012
Desert Rice by Angela Scott
Ok I am not really even sure what to say about this book, I picked it up today to read and never put it down once. Angela Scott has written a fantastic novel. I cannot express how much I enjoyed this story and Angela Scott's writing.
Where to begin but I suppose at the beginning, we are introduced quickly to Sam and her brother Jacob moving their dead mother into their trailer. Once they get the body where they want Jacob informs Sam that its time to leave. Packing as much as they could they take off in the family car. During the trip Jacob informs Sam that she has to dress more like a boy and he cuts off her hair and makes her wear baggy clothes. He doesn't want anything to happen to her, he needs to protect her and keep her safe.
Chills went up my back knowing there is more to this story and I have to admit it was well worth the read. Angela Scott has written a story that is heartbreaking and yet I couldn't stop reading. God I can't tell you how many tears I had to wipe away from my eyes so I could continue Desert Rice.
It is a must read and I have rated it a 5 star rating and I would rate it 10 if I could. It was terrific, fantastic, heart wrenching..OMG just go buy it and see for yourself no words will express how much this story is worth reading. You end up loving Sam and want to just hug her and Jacob for trying to do everything a 15 year old boy could do to keep his sister safe.
DISCLOSURE – *Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
Ok I am not really even sure what to say about this book, I picked it up today to read and never put it down once. Angela Scott has written a fantastic novel. I cannot express how much I enjoyed this story and Angela Scott's writing.
Where to begin but I suppose at the beginning, we are introduced quickly to Sam and her brother Jacob moving their dead mother into their trailer. Once they get the body where they want Jacob informs Sam that its time to leave. Packing as much as they could they take off in the family car. During the trip Jacob informs Sam that she has to dress more like a boy and he cuts off her hair and makes her wear baggy clothes. He doesn't want anything to happen to her, he needs to protect her and keep her safe.
Chills went up my back knowing there is more to this story and I have to admit it was well worth the read. Angela Scott has written a story that is heartbreaking and yet I couldn't stop reading. God I can't tell you how many tears I had to wipe away from my eyes so I could continue Desert Rice.
It is a must read and I have rated it a 5 star rating and I would rate it 10 if I could. It was terrific, fantastic, heart wrenching..OMG just go buy it and see for yourself no words will express how much this story is worth reading. You end up loving Sam and want to just hug her and Jacob for trying to do everything a 15 year old boy could do to keep his sister safe.
DISCLOSURE – *Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
July 22, 2012
Absolutely LOVED This Story! I Fell In Love Instantly with the characters!
August 13, 2012
I seriously still have chills on my arms!! Angela Scott has some of the best first chapters and mid book twists that I have ever read. This is my second book of hers to read and right from the start I was captivated by both. She packs a huge punch in just a few sentences and I can definitely say that I will be on the lookout for her next book.
This story is very different from her zombie novel WANTED. This one is about survival and the love between brothers and sisters. Samantha and Jacob do not have the ideal life. They live with their mother who is abusive and their days consist of just trying to survive. Well when their mother dies, Jacob takes Sam on the run so that they can stay together and not be split up in foster care. My goodness, what these two go through is beyond heartbreaking. Jacob at only fifteen takes his sister who is twelve across many states, finds a job by lying about his age, and basically takes care of her the best way he can. That right there is love. Is their journey perfect, no not by a long shot. Pressure builds and Jacob shows that he is only a child several times and Sam goes through the same thing. My heart really broke for these two characters. The turning point in the story is when Sam meets Boone. Things take a very intense turn when Sam and Jacobs true story comes out and let me tell you, you will need tissues for that part. I was in shock and I am still in shock over what happened to these two kids.
Again this story is not perfect and I think if the author had made it a perfect ending with a bow then it would not have been real. Jacob did what he did for the love of his sister and he will forever hold a place in my heart. I did not know that this was going to be a series so I am very intrigued to see where Ms.Scott takes this story. There are a few loose ends that I know need to be tied up and I am very curious how those will play out. Another brilliant story from Angela Scott!
*A copy of this book was provided by the author. Thank you SOOO much!!*
This story is very different from her zombie novel WANTED. This one is about survival and the love between brothers and sisters. Samantha and Jacob do not have the ideal life. They live with their mother who is abusive and their days consist of just trying to survive. Well when their mother dies, Jacob takes Sam on the run so that they can stay together and not be split up in foster care. My goodness, what these two go through is beyond heartbreaking. Jacob at only fifteen takes his sister who is twelve across many states, finds a job by lying about his age, and basically takes care of her the best way he can. That right there is love. Is their journey perfect, no not by a long shot. Pressure builds and Jacob shows that he is only a child several times and Sam goes through the same thing. My heart really broke for these two characters. The turning point in the story is when Sam meets Boone. Things take a very intense turn when Sam and Jacobs true story comes out and let me tell you, you will need tissues for that part. I was in shock and I am still in shock over what happened to these two kids.
Again this story is not perfect and I think if the author had made it a perfect ending with a bow then it would not have been real. Jacob did what he did for the love of his sister and he will forever hold a place in my heart. I did not know that this was going to be a series so I am very intrigued to see where Ms.Scott takes this story. There are a few loose ends that I know need to be tied up and I am very curious how those will play out. Another brilliant story from Angela Scott!
*A copy of this book was provided by the author. Thank you SOOO much!!*
March 25, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
Stunning. Disturbing. Touching. Raw.
And even those words don’t do this justice. Ms. Scott has got serious writing chops. She made me love this book, even though it’s nothing like my usual choice for reading and even though it’s terribly sad and tragic for the vast majority of its pages. She creates incredibly real characters in Jacob and Sam, then puts them in a place that broke my heart.
They aren’t always the most endearing of people. They do things that are frustrating, dishonest, and heart-rending. But they always love each other, and they always determine to make a life for themselves. Jacob’s first and only real goal in life it to take care of his sister. As we learn the truth of what happened, we understand what drives him so frantically to keep her safe.
Sam doesn’t remember what happened to put them in the place where they are. And she’s remarkably typical for a girl her age, except that she’s dressing and acting as a teenaged boy. No punches are pulled in this book; there is language, graphic situations and more. Even something like Sam’s first period are described so clearly I was cramping up right there with her.
Thankfully, all is not bleak here. Eventually they meet a good-hearted man and his girlfriend who take them under their wings, but even that doesn’t go smoothly.
This isn’t a book for light reading. It’s one you will think about long after you finish and wonder if this is how it truly is for some kids out there. It’ll make you grateful for your rather normal life and will cause you to count your blessings, no matter how small.
Reading Desert Rice is a life-changing experience and I’m glad I was able to read it.
Stunning. Disturbing. Touching. Raw.
And even those words don’t do this justice. Ms. Scott has got serious writing chops. She made me love this book, even though it’s nothing like my usual choice for reading and even though it’s terribly sad and tragic for the vast majority of its pages. She creates incredibly real characters in Jacob and Sam, then puts them in a place that broke my heart.
They aren’t always the most endearing of people. They do things that are frustrating, dishonest, and heart-rending. But they always love each other, and they always determine to make a life for themselves. Jacob’s first and only real goal in life it to take care of his sister. As we learn the truth of what happened, we understand what drives him so frantically to keep her safe.
Sam doesn’t remember what happened to put them in the place where they are. And she’s remarkably typical for a girl her age, except that she’s dressing and acting as a teenaged boy. No punches are pulled in this book; there is language, graphic situations and more. Even something like Sam’s first period are described so clearly I was cramping up right there with her.
Thankfully, all is not bleak here. Eventually they meet a good-hearted man and his girlfriend who take them under their wings, but even that doesn’t go smoothly.
This isn’t a book for light reading. It’s one you will think about long after you finish and wonder if this is how it truly is for some kids out there. It’ll make you grateful for your rather normal life and will cause you to count your blessings, no matter how small.
Reading Desert Rice is a life-changing experience and I’m glad I was able to read it.
August 16, 2012
I began reading Desert Rice at bedtime. I thought "Ah... I'll just relax and crack open a chapter to see why everybody's talking about Desert Rice." Wow. 11:30 PM went by and I was still sitting bolt upright in bed, eyes wide.
Novelists love a "hook" - something to grab their readers right from the word go. Or in this case, "Grab'er feet!" Scott didn't just find a hook - she found a claw. I was lifted from my bed and transported to a trailer park where Samantha Jean Haggert and her brother Jacob stood over their mother's dead body, put to the task of trying to move her. Jacob's love for his twelve-year-old sister is matched only by his fear for her safety. He shields her, provides for her, and simultaneously pushes her away with the force of his protection. This incredible bond drives their story to unbelievable places, and causes Jacob to make drastic decisions that have permanent and wide-reaching consequences.
Starting in West Virginia, winding all the way to Arizona, these two survive on stolen food and stark fear. Along the way, they meet kind souls like Boone and Laura, who help them stitch their lives back up. When Jacob is finally forced to reveal the secrets he's been keeping, his heartbreaking revelations ignite a series of unstoppable events. The only way out of hell for this brother/sister duo is straight through the flames.
A gripping tale of two young people on a frightening road trip, trying to survive in an adult world, this is a must-read for anyone who loves strong pacing, dramatic storytelling, and a shocking end.
Two thumbs up to Angela Scott!
Novelists love a "hook" - something to grab their readers right from the word go. Or in this case, "Grab'er feet!" Scott didn't just find a hook - she found a claw. I was lifted from my bed and transported to a trailer park where Samantha Jean Haggert and her brother Jacob stood over their mother's dead body, put to the task of trying to move her. Jacob's love for his twelve-year-old sister is matched only by his fear for her safety. He shields her, provides for her, and simultaneously pushes her away with the force of his protection. This incredible bond drives their story to unbelievable places, and causes Jacob to make drastic decisions that have permanent and wide-reaching consequences.
Starting in West Virginia, winding all the way to Arizona, these two survive on stolen food and stark fear. Along the way, they meet kind souls like Boone and Laura, who help them stitch their lives back up. When Jacob is finally forced to reveal the secrets he's been keeping, his heartbreaking revelations ignite a series of unstoppable events. The only way out of hell for this brother/sister duo is straight through the flames.
A gripping tale of two young people on a frightening road trip, trying to survive in an adult world, this is a must-read for anyone who loves strong pacing, dramatic storytelling, and a shocking end.
Two thumbs up to Angela Scott!
September 2, 2012
Excerpt and the giveaway here http://disincentive-reviews.blogspot....
It’s one of the hardest reviews to write since I have started writing this blog. What do I say about the book that was so perfect?
Desert rice sucked me in from the very first sentence. The whole book is so tense that I didn't want to stop. I stayed up at night just to read.
Characters are really well created, but the main heroine, Sam is so perfect that I have no words to describe her. She’s going through a lot and trying to find herself in a word that is really cruel.
I didn’t like Jacob so much but I respected him for doing so much for his sister and acting so mature. The relationship between those siblings feels really natural and I loved it.
The genre is contemporary but it’s one of the best mysteries I have read in a long time. When everything came out, my heart was literally beating faster. Some descriptions are really cruel though, so if you are very sensitive, it’s not for you.
To sum up everything, it’s a must read for everyone who’s looking for a tense, epic read.
It’s one of the hardest reviews to write since I have started writing this blog. What do I say about the book that was so perfect?
Desert rice sucked me in from the very first sentence. The whole book is so tense that I didn't want to stop. I stayed up at night just to read.
Characters are really well created, but the main heroine, Sam is so perfect that I have no words to describe her. She’s going through a lot and trying to find herself in a word that is really cruel.
I didn’t like Jacob so much but I respected him for doing so much for his sister and acting so mature. The relationship between those siblings feels really natural and I loved it.
The genre is contemporary but it’s one of the best mysteries I have read in a long time. When everything came out, my heart was literally beating faster. Some descriptions are really cruel though, so if you are very sensitive, it’s not for you.
To sum up everything, it’s a must read for everyone who’s looking for a tense, epic read.
June 4, 2014
Innocence somehow survives the dark in a story that show us love between brother and sister, and hope, there are still good people in the world.
The book is narrated by Sam, and it's the perfect perspective of a 12-13 year old, her innocence is very well portrayed ... there were situations that made me feel rage, sadness, impotence and ... I wanted to scream and warn Sam about the danger, a danger she couldn't see because of her innocence.
Her brother, Jacob ... what can I say about him? My heart broke for him 1000 times, he felt the weight of the world on his back, he just wanted to protect Sam, and he almost died *insert little teardrop here* Jacob managed to protect Sam but he was so stressed that he also pushed her away ... until the end, when he had to reveal the truth of what happened.
Good thing there is good people in the World, Sam and Jacob met Boone, the angel they needed and who eventually saved them.
If you like dramatic books, filled with tension and shocking revelations, this is the book for you.
The book is narrated by Sam, and it's the perfect perspective of a 12-13 year old, her innocence is very well portrayed ... there were situations that made me feel rage, sadness, impotence and ... I wanted to scream and warn Sam about the danger, a danger she couldn't see because of her innocence.
Her brother, Jacob ... what can I say about him? My heart broke for him 1000 times, he felt the weight of the world on his back, he just wanted to protect Sam, and he almost died *insert little teardrop here* Jacob managed to protect Sam but he was so stressed that he also pushed her away ... until the end, when he had to reveal the truth of what happened.
Good thing there is good people in the World, Sam and Jacob met Boone, the angel they needed and who eventually saved them.
If you like dramatic books, filled with tension and shocking revelations, this is the book for you.
August 17, 2012
I bought Desert Rice yesterday...and finished it today, my fingers sliding across my ipad with fervor. To see the love of a big brother, Jacob, for his little sister, Sam, unfold as they try to survive after a horrible ordeal was mesmerizing. This is a mystery, a thriller, but above all, for me, a story of love and how far someone will go to protect that love. Scott's characterization and pacing is sensational; I truly cared for Jacob and Sam and needed to know what happened to them. This is a 5 star read all around. Be warned, do not make many plans once you start; you will enter their world for awhile, and it will be hard to leave until you have finished...
January 8, 2013
From the very first sentence, to the very last chapter, Desert Rice was heart-wrenching to say the least. Watching the struggle of two children on the run to save each other and stay together was more than I would have imagined from the simple book cover summary.
I had received a copy of the book from a Goodreads giveaway so it wasn't something I had personally picked out to read. The cover was tempting and the summary was interesting. I cracked the book, read the very first sentence and was hooked!
Read my complete review at http://stephaniesbookshelf.blogspot.c...
I had received a copy of the book from a Goodreads giveaway so it wasn't something I had personally picked out to read. The cover was tempting and the summary was interesting. I cracked the book, read the very first sentence and was hooked!
Read my complete review at http://stephaniesbookshelf.blogspot.c...
January 16, 2021
Not what I was expecting
This book far exceeded my expectations. There were times I gasped and teared up as the story progressed and we find out the truth. My heart broke as we delved more into this story. Very well written and very emotiona. Glad I read it.
This book far exceeded my expectations. There were times I gasped and teared up as the story progressed and we find out the truth. My heart broke as we delved more into this story. Very well written and very emotiona. Glad I read it.
January 6, 2013
I’ll be honest, I haven’t read a whole lot of books with a 12-year-old girl’s point of view, so I didn’t really know what to expect in terms of how the character would narrate her story. My first impression of Sam was that she was woefully, and a tad annoyingly, ignorant of a lot of things. I don’t remember much about being 12, but I don’t recall being so unaware of the world as a whole. However, as I read Desert Rice I discovered more and more that what Scott was likely doing in showing that ignorance was highlighting the pathetic excuse for an upbringing that both Sam and her brother Jacob received. Sam is a character that Scott clearly poured a little extra of her writer’s essence into, she’s someone you instantly want to befriend and protect, and the lengths that her brother goes to do so seem justified by more than just their family link. She’s as innocent as they come, molding herself only by what she sees in the few encounters that she is allowed to have with the world but she has the typical stubbornness of someone her age which makes her feel all the more real.
Which brings me to Jacob. He has both of their lives on his shoulders, plus the additional weight of keeping secret what happened to them both from everyone they encounter, and from Sam as well. He puts on a brave face most of the time but some frustration does leak through, mostly fueled by what Sam had went through (can’t be any more specific, spoilers!), and a bit of a typical teenage male’s difficulty with being around his kid sister all the time. However, Scott makes it readily apparent that Jacob cares deeply for Sam so his occasional outbursts don’t demean him as a character, they even prove to separate him from other books where this character is often a cardboard cutout.
The plot might be the one complaint I have for Desert Rice, and keeps it from being among my favorites. It’s a bit obvious based on the summary where the journey is going to end up, even if the details to get them there aren’t clear. There is a slight twist at the end, don’t worry I won’t spoil it, but not enough of one to really shock you. I would also say that Sam’s indecision at certain parts, even for someone her age, was a tad ridiculous, maybe she thought she was doing what was best for them, but it was irritating to say the least. The pacing was good, though, and there was enough action in Desert Rice to keep the reader engaged while developing the characters at the same time.
There isn’t much to say about the world building as far as just the setting goes. I don’t know much about Arizona outside of the obvious, but Scott seemed to have a pretty good feel for what it is like there, and I’ll take her word(s) on it. The cowboy-type of people that were described at times were a little over the top, and though there may still be some smaller towns where these descriptions would be accurate, it just felt a little off. The setting at least felt realistic enough, so I guess I’d give this area a check mark for completion if not an outstanding (channeling my inner teacher there, weird I know).
Overall I enjoyed Desert Rice. The characters were the highlight of the book without a doubt, and I loved Sam, she was just excellently done. It was a quick and pleasant read.
Rating 3.5/5
Which brings me to Jacob. He has both of their lives on his shoulders, plus the additional weight of keeping secret what happened to them both from everyone they encounter, and from Sam as well. He puts on a brave face most of the time but some frustration does leak through, mostly fueled by what Sam had went through (can’t be any more specific, spoilers!), and a bit of a typical teenage male’s difficulty with being around his kid sister all the time. However, Scott makes it readily apparent that Jacob cares deeply for Sam so his occasional outbursts don’t demean him as a character, they even prove to separate him from other books where this character is often a cardboard cutout.
The plot might be the one complaint I have for Desert Rice, and keeps it from being among my favorites. It’s a bit obvious based on the summary where the journey is going to end up, even if the details to get them there aren’t clear. There is a slight twist at the end, don’t worry I won’t spoil it, but not enough of one to really shock you. I would also say that Sam’s indecision at certain parts, even for someone her age, was a tad ridiculous, maybe she thought she was doing what was best for them, but it was irritating to say the least. The pacing was good, though, and there was enough action in Desert Rice to keep the reader engaged while developing the characters at the same time.
There isn’t much to say about the world building as far as just the setting goes. I don’t know much about Arizona outside of the obvious, but Scott seemed to have a pretty good feel for what it is like there, and I’ll take her word(s) on it. The cowboy-type of people that were described at times were a little over the top, and though there may still be some smaller towns where these descriptions would be accurate, it just felt a little off. The setting at least felt realistic enough, so I guess I’d give this area a check mark for completion if not an outstanding (channeling my inner teacher there, weird I know).
Overall I enjoyed Desert Rice. The characters were the highlight of the book without a doubt, and I loved Sam, she was just excellently done. It was a quick and pleasant read.
Rating 3.5/5
August 14, 2012
DESERT RICE by Angela Scott
***SPOILER FREE REVIEW***
Immediately after there mother’s death, fifteen year-old Jacob takes his twelve year-old sister, Samantha (Sam) away from their past in their battered family car, fearing being separated by social services- or at least that’s all he tells her. Samantha is stuck to obeying her brother’s plan to keep her safe and that means dressing up and being Sam, the boy and doing everything he asks of her. As they hit the road, things get tough and what follows is a series of events that end with the revelation of what really happened to the children’s mother! Because Jacob knows, Samantha doesn’t remember and Jacob isn’t sharing!
I’m a VERY difficult reader to please and this isn’t a book I would typically read but I read it and boy was I blown away. This novel captivated me, not from the first page but from the very first sentence, where we are brought smack in the middle of the action. The voice of the innocent and mostly naïve narrator, Samantha is honest and real, as she navigates through two journeys, an inner journey of the issues surrounding becoming a teenager (nicely addresses some tween topics), and a journey of dealing with the world around her. There was a few times where I thought, a twelve-year old couldn’t possibly think like this, but this, in no way ruined awesomeness of the book for me. By the end, we see such wonderful character growth, it’s worth a tear or two.
What I REALLY loved was the relationship between brother and sister. It was REAL! Like, so, so real! I loved that we saw Jacob as a strong character who would do anything to protect his little sister from both the world they have been forced to face as well as from their past. Little things, like making sure she brushed her teeth and stacking up on tampons makes their relationship even more wholesome. He’s her teacher somewhat. But Jacob isn’t without flaws. He can’t always be the knight in shining armour that he’s been trying so hard to maintain. Even he fears what the immediate and long-term future could hold for both of them, especially when he must finally open up about what really happened to their mother.
We meet a few other characters in the novel who play some important roles. Although they are not as fully developed as the two siblings they are still a nice addition. DESERT RICE is a novel full of surprises, and just when you think there couldn’t possibly be any more surprises- BAM! You’re hit with them again. This is the first book I’ve read by Angela Scott and I must say, I was very impressed. The teaser of DESERT FLOWER, the second novel in the series just about had my jaw drop open. Can’t wait for this one!
P.s. the title for this novel- so clever! I only just understood it right now, as I write the end of this review.
***SPOILER FREE REVIEW***
Immediately after there mother’s death, fifteen year-old Jacob takes his twelve year-old sister, Samantha (Sam) away from their past in their battered family car, fearing being separated by social services- or at least that’s all he tells her. Samantha is stuck to obeying her brother’s plan to keep her safe and that means dressing up and being Sam, the boy and doing everything he asks of her. As they hit the road, things get tough and what follows is a series of events that end with the revelation of what really happened to the children’s mother! Because Jacob knows, Samantha doesn’t remember and Jacob isn’t sharing!
I’m a VERY difficult reader to please and this isn’t a book I would typically read but I read it and boy was I blown away. This novel captivated me, not from the first page but from the very first sentence, where we are brought smack in the middle of the action. The voice of the innocent and mostly naïve narrator, Samantha is honest and real, as she navigates through two journeys, an inner journey of the issues surrounding becoming a teenager (nicely addresses some tween topics), and a journey of dealing with the world around her. There was a few times where I thought, a twelve-year old couldn’t possibly think like this, but this, in no way ruined awesomeness of the book for me. By the end, we see such wonderful character growth, it’s worth a tear or two.
What I REALLY loved was the relationship between brother and sister. It was REAL! Like, so, so real! I loved that we saw Jacob as a strong character who would do anything to protect his little sister from both the world they have been forced to face as well as from their past. Little things, like making sure she brushed her teeth and stacking up on tampons makes their relationship even more wholesome. He’s her teacher somewhat. But Jacob isn’t without flaws. He can’t always be the knight in shining armour that he’s been trying so hard to maintain. Even he fears what the immediate and long-term future could hold for both of them, especially when he must finally open up about what really happened to their mother.
We meet a few other characters in the novel who play some important roles. Although they are not as fully developed as the two siblings they are still a nice addition. DESERT RICE is a novel full of surprises, and just when you think there couldn’t possibly be any more surprises- BAM! You’re hit with them again. This is the first book I’ve read by Angela Scott and I must say, I was very impressed. The teaser of DESERT FLOWER, the second novel in the series just about had my jaw drop open. Can’t wait for this one!
P.s. the title for this novel- so clever! I only just understood it right now, as I write the end of this review.
November 14, 2012
I was completely engrossed in the novel the entire time I was reading it, and I felt myself get anxious during intense plot moments, and I really sympathized with the characters. The novel follows the narration of twelve year old Samantha Haggert and the story of how she and her brother tried to make it in the adult world by themselves. The story starts with the death of Sam and Jacob's mother at which point, they clean up the mess and take the car to leave town. Right away we see how protective Jacob is of Sam and both characters naturally drift into their roles of older brother and younger sister.
Samantha is a most precocious young child. She doesn't always act her age. I do think she is written to be more mature than a typical twelve year old girl, but there is definitely more to her than meets the eye. For example, she uses vocabulary that a typical twelve year old wouldn't use, and she approaches certain situations with a tact beyond her age. But at the same time, she does regress into childlike mannerisms that I found to be endearing such that I found myself chuckling at certain things that she said or did. So even though she flip flops between naivete and maturity, she's very consistent in the way she alternates.
Jacob is a harder character to get behind from the beginning because we don't learn anything about his motivations for his actions until the end of the novel. I love that he loves his younger sister Sam and it is clear that his job is to be her protector, but in doing so Jacob comes off as stubborn and due to circumstances, the decisions he makes for her may not always be the most favorable. But the bond between the two is so strong and Angela Scott has successfully portrayed a functional dysfunctional family.
Desert Rice was a very good read, and it fits well within its genre. It does play with themes that are typical within young adult such coming of age, and the strong but young protagonists for example but it also plays with other themes such as familial dysfunction in the way of alcohol or drugs, and religion, to name a couple. These are not uncommon in novels, but the way that Scott utilizes these ideas was very well written. The story was not predictable even though in the beginning I was under the impression it would be. I was pleasantly surprised and drawn in by Sam and Jacob's story the whole time.
Angela Scott is a wonderful story teller and I am giving this the full five stars because of how much I enjoyed the novel. It is a solid contemporary young adult tale that is very well written. It is easy to read, straight forward, the language is simple and not overly complicated, but all of the elements are appropriate so that they make sense within the frame of the story. It is a fun read and a touching story so I recommend this book to all of you.
Samantha is a most precocious young child. She doesn't always act her age. I do think she is written to be more mature than a typical twelve year old girl, but there is definitely more to her than meets the eye. For example, she uses vocabulary that a typical twelve year old wouldn't use, and she approaches certain situations with a tact beyond her age. But at the same time, she does regress into childlike mannerisms that I found to be endearing such that I found myself chuckling at certain things that she said or did. So even though she flip flops between naivete and maturity, she's very consistent in the way she alternates.
Jacob is a harder character to get behind from the beginning because we don't learn anything about his motivations for his actions until the end of the novel. I love that he loves his younger sister Sam and it is clear that his job is to be her protector, but in doing so Jacob comes off as stubborn and due to circumstances, the decisions he makes for her may not always be the most favorable. But the bond between the two is so strong and Angela Scott has successfully portrayed a functional dysfunctional family.
Desert Rice was a very good read, and it fits well within its genre. It does play with themes that are typical within young adult such coming of age, and the strong but young protagonists for example but it also plays with other themes such as familial dysfunction in the way of alcohol or drugs, and religion, to name a couple. These are not uncommon in novels, but the way that Scott utilizes these ideas was very well written. The story was not predictable even though in the beginning I was under the impression it would be. I was pleasantly surprised and drawn in by Sam and Jacob's story the whole time.
Angela Scott is a wonderful story teller and I am giving this the full five stars because of how much I enjoyed the novel. It is a solid contemporary young adult tale that is very well written. It is easy to read, straight forward, the language is simple and not overly complicated, but all of the elements are appropriate so that they make sense within the frame of the story. It is a fun read and a touching story so I recommend this book to all of you.
December 15, 2013
Few reads are more satisfying than those where the story grabs you in the opening lines and doesn’t let you go till you’ve finished the book.
That’s how it was for me with Angela Scott’s DESERT RICE. From word “go” the reader is wondering what two children are trying to do with a dead body … their own mother’s … and why is she dead? Who wrapped her up in a bed sheet and why are these children trying to move it? And why, when they succeed, aren’t they going to the police? And what makes Jacob, 15-year-old brother to Samantha, 12, decide they have to run, get away as fast and as far as they can? And why isn’t Samantha crying for her dead mother? One chapter into the book and the reader is hooked.
Questions pop into the reader’s head with every turn of the page, and even as the answers to those questions reveal themselves, more questions arise as these siblings take a car, meagre rations, whatever money they can find and start driving. Now the reader moves from trying to find out what happened, to being moved by the siblings, their obvious love for each other occasionally tested by Jacob’s insistence that they do things his way at all times. He insists that Sam’s hair must be cut short, like a boys. Why? He insists she stay in a cheap motel room all day, day after day, while he tries to earn some food money. She rebels. She starts walking around a little town. She’s bored and hungry. She begins shoplifting. And the reader keeps turning those pages wondering why these children are on the run, where all this will end up and will it be a happy ending.
I’m certainly not going to reveal any more about DESERT RICE, including the significance of the title, because I want you to read this book. I want you to discover this terrific writer who has won some impressive awards and deservedly so. She has mad skills at revealing characters using minimal, but poignant descriptions of their facial expressions and actions, highlighted by inserting their innermost thoughts at just the right moments. Angela Scott is definitely my kind of writer, one who says so much in so few words, gets the story told quickly while forever keeping the reader wondering what will happen next. Read DESERT RICE and you’ll know what I mean. Well done!
No Tears For My FatherViga Boland
That’s how it was for me with Angela Scott’s DESERT RICE. From word “go” the reader is wondering what two children are trying to do with a dead body … their own mother’s … and why is she dead? Who wrapped her up in a bed sheet and why are these children trying to move it? And why, when they succeed, aren’t they going to the police? And what makes Jacob, 15-year-old brother to Samantha, 12, decide they have to run, get away as fast and as far as they can? And why isn’t Samantha crying for her dead mother? One chapter into the book and the reader is hooked.
Questions pop into the reader’s head with every turn of the page, and even as the answers to those questions reveal themselves, more questions arise as these siblings take a car, meagre rations, whatever money they can find and start driving. Now the reader moves from trying to find out what happened, to being moved by the siblings, their obvious love for each other occasionally tested by Jacob’s insistence that they do things his way at all times. He insists that Sam’s hair must be cut short, like a boys. Why? He insists she stay in a cheap motel room all day, day after day, while he tries to earn some food money. She rebels. She starts walking around a little town. She’s bored and hungry. She begins shoplifting. And the reader keeps turning those pages wondering why these children are on the run, where all this will end up and will it be a happy ending.
I’m certainly not going to reveal any more about DESERT RICE, including the significance of the title, because I want you to read this book. I want you to discover this terrific writer who has won some impressive awards and deservedly so. She has mad skills at revealing characters using minimal, but poignant descriptions of their facial expressions and actions, highlighted by inserting their innermost thoughts at just the right moments. Angela Scott is definitely my kind of writer, one who says so much in so few words, gets the story told quickly while forever keeping the reader wondering what will happen next. Read DESERT RICE and you’ll know what I mean. Well done!
No Tears For My FatherViga Boland
August 24, 2012
So, how do I even begin to tell you how I feel about this book? It’s intense! I mean seriously intense! Here we have two kids, the main characters Jacob and Sam and they are being put, quite literally, through hell. Their mother dies and Jacob who is only 15 has to take care of Sam. You can tell from the very start that they are very poor and I so wanted to just take them under my arm and take care of them.
You don’t get to really know them, there’s just bits and pieces, a few clues strewn about, letting us know what is going on, while they try to survive on their own. It’s not until nearly half way through the book that I really started putting things together. I felt Desert Rice was a little slow in the beginning but mainly because I just couldn’t comprehend what his motives really were without delving more into the story.
Jacob was making choices that I did not understand. He tells Sam that he doesn’t want them separated, that foster home would be the worst place for them, but the situations these two go through is worst than foster homes! And poor Sam being only 12 has to sit there and listen to her brother and do pretty much what he says or he’ll freak out on her. It’s upsetting to say the least! But I am here to tell you, everything comes together before the end! Actually, at about that halfway point when you start to figure out and put the pieces together, that’s when the story really starts to make sense. Jacob’s wild behavior over his sister is erratic but all of his decisions are based on love.
Although Jacob really ticked me off a few times he is a great character, strong and determined. Sam was fabulous although very distraught about having to dress like a boy and with all the rules Jacob kept giving her. It’s hard enough to be a 12 year old girl without all of that extra pressure. My favorite character though is Boone. He’s a really great guy. He wants to support these kids and do something for them even when so many other minor characters didn’t. Some may have gave them a hand but they didn’t DO anything for the kids, such is life. But Boone is really great and as great as he is, even he makes mistakes. Fabulous guy, I wish I knew him!
It’s a great story about very serious, difficult things that love can always overcome. Jacob’s love for his sister is nothing short of amazing. Fabulous but really intense story! I’d definitely recommend to anyone that enjoys Contemporary and can deal with reading some difficult themes.
You don’t get to really know them, there’s just bits and pieces, a few clues strewn about, letting us know what is going on, while they try to survive on their own. It’s not until nearly half way through the book that I really started putting things together. I felt Desert Rice was a little slow in the beginning but mainly because I just couldn’t comprehend what his motives really were without delving more into the story.
Jacob was making choices that I did not understand. He tells Sam that he doesn’t want them separated, that foster home would be the worst place for them, but the situations these two go through is worst than foster homes! And poor Sam being only 12 has to sit there and listen to her brother and do pretty much what he says or he’ll freak out on her. It’s upsetting to say the least! But I am here to tell you, everything comes together before the end! Actually, at about that halfway point when you start to figure out and put the pieces together, that’s when the story really starts to make sense. Jacob’s wild behavior over his sister is erratic but all of his decisions are based on love.
Although Jacob really ticked me off a few times he is a great character, strong and determined. Sam was fabulous although very distraught about having to dress like a boy and with all the rules Jacob kept giving her. It’s hard enough to be a 12 year old girl without all of that extra pressure. My favorite character though is Boone. He’s a really great guy. He wants to support these kids and do something for them even when so many other minor characters didn’t. Some may have gave them a hand but they didn’t DO anything for the kids, such is life. But Boone is really great and as great as he is, even he makes mistakes. Fabulous guy, I wish I knew him!
It’s a great story about very serious, difficult things that love can always overcome. Jacob’s love for his sister is nothing short of amazing. Fabulous but really intense story! I’d definitely recommend to anyone that enjoys Contemporary and can deal with reading some difficult themes.
September 16, 2012
Review originally posted at Doodle's Book Blog
I don't know what I expected when I started Desert Rice, but what I got wasn't even on the radar of possibilities. Angela Scott wrote a beautiful story of a brother and sister trying to outrun their past.
Sam and Jacob are on the run. Jacob knows all the details and Sam is left in the dark. One thing is clear, no one can know who they are or where they're from. How long will they be able to keep up their charade?
Sam is a twelve year old girl who knows her mother is dead and her only hope of staying with her brother is to leave town. Jacob is fifteen and thinks it's best to let everyone believe Sam is a boy. No one would be looking for brothers. They have limited cash and Jacob is doing his best to support his sister. He has his flaws, but he's trying to be the person she needs.
I really enjoyed Desert Rice. It took me a few chapters to get into it, but after a while, I couldn't put it down. I didn't expect the last third of the book to play out the way it did. It kept me on my toes and left me wanting more. The love Sam has for Jacob and Jacob for Sam is evident. They drive each other crazy at times, but they would do anything for the other.
Overal, Desert Rice left me breathless. It was a truly amazing read that took me off guard when their past was revealed. Angela Scott did an incredible job with the set up. This book is definitely for everyone.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising*
I don't know what I expected when I started Desert Rice, but what I got wasn't even on the radar of possibilities. Angela Scott wrote a beautiful story of a brother and sister trying to outrun their past.
Sam and Jacob are on the run. Jacob knows all the details and Sam is left in the dark. One thing is clear, no one can know who they are or where they're from. How long will they be able to keep up their charade?
Sam is a twelve year old girl who knows her mother is dead and her only hope of staying with her brother is to leave town. Jacob is fifteen and thinks it's best to let everyone believe Sam is a boy. No one would be looking for brothers. They have limited cash and Jacob is doing his best to support his sister. He has his flaws, but he's trying to be the person she needs.
I really enjoyed Desert Rice. It took me a few chapters to get into it, but after a while, I couldn't put it down. I didn't expect the last third of the book to play out the way it did. It kept me on my toes and left me wanting more. The love Sam has for Jacob and Jacob for Sam is evident. They drive each other crazy at times, but they would do anything for the other.
Overal, Desert Rice left me breathless. It was a truly amazing read that took me off guard when their past was revealed. Angela Scott did an incredible job with the set up. This book is definitely for everyone.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising*
August 27, 2012
Did you read the blurb? If you did, didn't you find the idea, captivating? Just imagine, a girl disguising as a boy, how hard can that be? I liked the story-line very much. This book is unique and intriguing to the very core!
Samantha Jean, is a pretty 12-year-old girl, but nobody can see that. Ever since her mother died, she and her brother, Jacob are running from town to town. If anyone finds them, they will end up separated in foster care. Samantha is growing up and getting more girly, so Jacob cuts her long blond her and gives her his clothes; so she can look like his brother, not sister. Samantha doesn't want this; but she doesn't want to be separated from her brother, too.
It's pretty hard for a fifteen year old boy and a twelve year old girl to find a place to live. Specially if they have so little money with them. Jacob and Samantha fight through the obstacles and make new friends, but what awaits them in the future, is not what they would have expected AT ALL.
How has Sam's mother died? What will happen to Jacob and Samantha? Will they ever have a real family? Find out much more when you read this heart-wrenching, thought-provoking story of self-discovery and hidden traumas.
I liked this book a LOT. It was definitely not what I expected. Angela Scott has a really beautiful writing style, it's simple and straight-forward. Most of the characters are three-dimensional and believable. I loved to see the world through Samantha's eyes and to watch her grow and go through puberty. Although I didn't like Jacob as much as Sam, he was so BOSSY but he was protective of his sister so I loved him for that!
The plot of the story is unique and character development is very well executed. If you wonder why I gave this book 4 stars, it's just that the book wasn't one of the books I would usually read but it was WONDERFUL! This book is recommended to all lovers of contemporary YA and contemporary, in general. Trust me, this is great! I will definitely be reading the sequel to this book,which is called Desert Flower.
Samantha Jean, is a pretty 12-year-old girl, but nobody can see that. Ever since her mother died, she and her brother, Jacob are running from town to town. If anyone finds them, they will end up separated in foster care. Samantha is growing up and getting more girly, so Jacob cuts her long blond her and gives her his clothes; so she can look like his brother, not sister. Samantha doesn't want this; but she doesn't want to be separated from her brother, too.
It's pretty hard for a fifteen year old boy and a twelve year old girl to find a place to live. Specially if they have so little money with them. Jacob and Samantha fight through the obstacles and make new friends, but what awaits them in the future, is not what they would have expected AT ALL.
How has Sam's mother died? What will happen to Jacob and Samantha? Will they ever have a real family? Find out much more when you read this heart-wrenching, thought-provoking story of self-discovery and hidden traumas.
I liked this book a LOT. It was definitely not what I expected. Angela Scott has a really beautiful writing style, it's simple and straight-forward. Most of the characters are three-dimensional and believable. I loved to see the world through Samantha's eyes and to watch her grow and go through puberty. Although I didn't like Jacob as much as Sam, he was so BOSSY but he was protective of his sister so I loved him for that!
The plot of the story is unique and character development is very well executed. If you wonder why I gave this book 4 stars, it's just that the book wasn't one of the books I would usually read but it was WONDERFUL! This book is recommended to all lovers of contemporary YA and contemporary, in general. Trust me, this is great! I will definitely be reading the sequel to this book,which is called Desert Flower.
September 9, 2016
I am of two minds about Desert Rice. First, I found the story compelling and well written. I think the author did a great job taking you into the head of a smart 12 year old who is trying to survive some of the worst experiences a child can go through. The dialogue sounded real to me, and the characters were well developed. The kids acted and thought like kids. I really got into Sam's story and was pulling for things to come out well for her in the end.
The book was grim due to the subject matter, and it is not suitable for readers under the age of 15 or so. It includes themes of physical and sexual abuse as well as the murder of a parent. Bad things happen to Sam and her brother in an unrelenting manner; that was quite realistic. Given how Sam and her brother were raised, they wouldn't have the skills to make good choices and minimize the damage the world would do to them.
Unfortunately, the responsible adults introduced to help Sam didn't fully act or think like responsible adults, either. Both of these adult characters are nice people with good hearts, and I know why they didn't act like the characters would have acted if they were real -- the story would have been over when they reported their suspicions to the authorities that the children were on their own and/or abuse victims! If the real-world Child Protective Services were to interview them about their role with these children, they would not be rewarded for how they behaved. Bear in mind, I speak to this as an adult who has worked within the child protection environment. I don't think this element will have as strong an impact on the enjoyment of the story for most readers, particularly teenagers.
. Overall, I recommend the story for any reader above the age of 15 or so who has read the book summary, finds it interesting, and understands that this is not the feel-good novel of the year. If the element I criticized above wouldn't bother you, then you should enjoy the book.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book was grim due to the subject matter, and it is not suitable for readers under the age of 15 or so. It includes themes of physical and sexual abuse as well as the murder of a parent. Bad things happen to Sam and her brother in an unrelenting manner; that was quite realistic. Given how Sam and her brother were raised, they wouldn't have the skills to make good choices and minimize the damage the world would do to them.
Unfortunately, the responsible adults introduced to help Sam didn't fully act or think like responsible adults, either. Both of these adult characters are nice people with good hearts, and I know why they didn't act like the characters would have acted if they were real -- the story would have been over when they reported their suspicions to the authorities that the children were on their own and/or abuse victims! If the real-world Child Protective Services were to interview them about their role with these children, they would not be rewarded for how they behaved. Bear in mind, I speak to this as an adult who has worked within the child protection environment. I don't think this element will have as strong an impact on the enjoyment of the story for most readers, particularly teenagers.
. Overall, I recommend the story for any reader above the age of 15 or so who has read the book summary, finds it interesting, and understands that this is not the feel-good novel of the year. If the element I criticized above wouldn't bother you, then you should enjoy the book.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2014
I must admit it took me about a week to get past the first few pages…I tend to imagine everything I read and this time I found it too much…The scenes were well written, but the images were horrifying. After that I started to really enjoy the book. I have to say that it is a must read!!! I know I said this multiple times in the last few weeks about a great number of books, but you must believe me:) You won’t regret reading the book:)
I loved the plot. It is quite original and extremely complex. It’s refreshing to see that an author is still able to create an original story. I mean, in this case, the author hasn’t borrowed any ideas from another author, at least I do not think so.
One other thing I really enjoyed about the book is that it talks about things that do happen somewhere on Earth, things we would rather ignore. We must acknowledge that out there there are people who go though something similar.
In my opinion, both main characters are strong, smart and capable of doing whatever it takes to survive. They been though a lot, but they still manage to stick together and survive.
I honestly hate the cover. It’s quite unattractive. The format and the writing is okay. The format of the book is unusual for my country, here most books are a smaller size. This is not a negative thing, I just wanted to mention this fact. I do not know in other countries what kind of books people usually buy. It’s not a rule…(maybe is something psychological, but I doubt it)
One other thing I like is the fact that the author managed to include a few funny scenes(maybe cute fits better) in the middle of so many sad scenes.
From me it receives: 4.2/5
Angela Scott is a really talented author. I can’t wait to read her other books.
The sequel of this book will appear sometime next year, if I am not mistaken.
ooo and as the description above states the book is not suitable for those under the age of 16.
I loved the plot. It is quite original and extremely complex. It’s refreshing to see that an author is still able to create an original story. I mean, in this case, the author hasn’t borrowed any ideas from another author, at least I do not think so.
One other thing I really enjoyed about the book is that it talks about things that do happen somewhere on Earth, things we would rather ignore. We must acknowledge that out there there are people who go though something similar.
In my opinion, both main characters are strong, smart and capable of doing whatever it takes to survive. They been though a lot, but they still manage to stick together and survive.
I honestly hate the cover. It’s quite unattractive. The format and the writing is okay. The format of the book is unusual for my country, here most books are a smaller size. This is not a negative thing, I just wanted to mention this fact. I do not know in other countries what kind of books people usually buy. It’s not a rule…(maybe is something psychological, but I doubt it)
One other thing I like is the fact that the author managed to include a few funny scenes(maybe cute fits better) in the middle of so many sad scenes.
From me it receives: 4.2/5
Angela Scott is a really talented author. I can’t wait to read her other books.
The sequel of this book will appear sometime next year, if I am not mistaken.
ooo and as the description above states the book is not suitable for those under the age of 16.
September 1, 2012
Sam and Jacob are on the run. After hauling their dead mother, they skipped town. What happened? Where are they going? How will they survive? Sam and Jacob are both teenagers trying to survive outside their trailer home. Without any parent, they are forced to fend for themselves but as days passed it seems like both Sam and Jacob has something to hide.
Sam is such a timid girl. Very head strong and a bit childish at first. She doesn’t want the road they are heading and it scares her to death. In addition to having a bossy brother, Sam tries to make the most out of their miserable life. Jacob on the other hand tries to be strong. Although he is of a young age, Jacob continues to find ways on how to make them survive. He took odd jobs and took everything, for Sam.
The story is actually tricky to follow at first. Learning the same broke my heart. It was hard not to put this book down. Information is relayed bit by bit which makes the story more agreeable to read. You’ll know from very start that there is something wrong with the scenario yet you aren’t given the given picture instantly. The author gives you ample time to absorb the gravity of the event and when you come to the climax it would really make you catch your breath. This is not a happy story, well not happy all throughout, and the author did end it beautifully. The author will show you that Sam and Jacob isn’t perfect, they have flaws and the world is cruel yet the author will also show you that when you reach the end of your journey it can be worth the trip. Desert Rice is a good example of writing an effective story. To sum it all up - Desert Rice was riveting and breath taking! Would definitely recommend.
Sam is such a timid girl. Very head strong and a bit childish at first. She doesn’t want the road they are heading and it scares her to death. In addition to having a bossy brother, Sam tries to make the most out of their miserable life. Jacob on the other hand tries to be strong. Although he is of a young age, Jacob continues to find ways on how to make them survive. He took odd jobs and took everything, for Sam.
The story is actually tricky to follow at first. Learning the same broke my heart. It was hard not to put this book down. Information is relayed bit by bit which makes the story more agreeable to read. You’ll know from very start that there is something wrong with the scenario yet you aren’t given the given picture instantly. The author gives you ample time to absorb the gravity of the event and when you come to the climax it would really make you catch your breath. This is not a happy story, well not happy all throughout, and the author did end it beautifully. The author will show you that Sam and Jacob isn’t perfect, they have flaws and the world is cruel yet the author will also show you that when you reach the end of your journey it can be worth the trip. Desert Rice is a good example of writing an effective story. To sum it all up - Desert Rice was riveting and breath taking! Would definitely recommend.
September 10, 2012
This is one of those books that was filled with real, difficult, and tough things that just touch you in some way & evoke emotions. It was an interesting book to read and definitely different than what I'm used to reading.
I liked the story a lot. It had twists that were good and some not so good. It starts out with a scene that no kids should see and it made me wonder what the heck happened. I was a bit confused and upset but it added this secrecy & urgency that it needed. At the start Sam & Jacob are living it tough & are trying to survive but soon it takes a better turn, somewhat.
I really liked the parts where Sam is maturing. She goes through all these changes & she has no one to talk to & it made her stronger in my eyes. I didn't much like Jacob. I mean he does what he does to protect Sam but sometimes he is just being a bit too aggressive. I wanted to smack him upside the head like Ginger. >:] He also puts Sam in awkward & not child appropriate situations. I liked Boone, he really was a saving grace & gave them a home.
This was a story that i really liked reading and it taught you that out of bad situations, good can come out of it. It was a raw & intense story BUT at the same time it showed how the characters grew and overcame their issues to find a "home".
Overall, I really liked it for it's gritty & real approach. I liked that their were difficult subjects breached in the story & that it did end happily. So 4/5 GOLDEN STARS!!! READ IT!=D
I liked the story a lot. It had twists that were good and some not so good. It starts out with a scene that no kids should see and it made me wonder what the heck happened. I was a bit confused and upset but it added this secrecy & urgency that it needed. At the start Sam & Jacob are living it tough & are trying to survive but soon it takes a better turn, somewhat.
I really liked the parts where Sam is maturing. She goes through all these changes & she has no one to talk to & it made her stronger in my eyes. I didn't much like Jacob. I mean he does what he does to protect Sam but sometimes he is just being a bit too aggressive. I wanted to smack him upside the head like Ginger. >:] He also puts Sam in awkward & not child appropriate situations. I liked Boone, he really was a saving grace & gave them a home.
This was a story that i really liked reading and it taught you that out of bad situations, good can come out of it. It was a raw & intense story BUT at the same time it showed how the characters grew and overcame their issues to find a "home".
Overall, I really liked it for it's gritty & real approach. I liked that their were difficult subjects breached in the story & that it did end happily. So 4/5 GOLDEN STARS!!! READ IT!=D
November 8, 2012
Desert Rice was one of those gripping novels that sticks with you long after you turn the final page. Scott tells the tale of brother-sister duo, Jacob and Sam's escape from their horrific childhood in West Virginia for a new beginning in the deserts of Arizona.
Sam and Jacob not begin their journey by moving their mother's dead body in their dilapidated trailer. The two are fleeing from a childhood that rivals most of our worst nightmares. Scott skillfully weaves the kids horrifying past into a tale that remains uplifting. She creates two champions for the children that blew me away.
Boone, the small town's loner veterinarian, originally discovers Sam after she injure herself on the playground. He patches her up and proves to be the perfect antidote to break her from her life in hiding. When Jacob falls ill, Boone brings in Doctor Laura.
The two immediately fall in love with the siblings. They also do not trust their story of heading to life with their father in California. They recognize the hurt and the secrets that threaten any chance Sam and Jacob have at happiness.
As Boone and Laura work to gain their trust, Scott leaves you on the edge of your seat. As the story unfolded, I found it took all of my restraint to not to skip ahead. Not because Scott failed but because the story was so compelling, I wanted all of the pieces RIGHT NOW!
Told through the eyes of Sam, this story is beautiful and tragic and so wonderfully told. It still has me thinking days later.
I still long for the opportunity to give Sam and Jacob a hug. Luckily, Scott is going to tell us even more of Sam, Jacob, Boone and Laura's stories with Desert Flower coming soon.
Sam and Jacob not begin their journey by moving their mother's dead body in their dilapidated trailer. The two are fleeing from a childhood that rivals most of our worst nightmares. Scott skillfully weaves the kids horrifying past into a tale that remains uplifting. She creates two champions for the children that blew me away.
Boone, the small town's loner veterinarian, originally discovers Sam after she injure herself on the playground. He patches her up and proves to be the perfect antidote to break her from her life in hiding. When Jacob falls ill, Boone brings in Doctor Laura.
The two immediately fall in love with the siblings. They also do not trust their story of heading to life with their father in California. They recognize the hurt and the secrets that threaten any chance Sam and Jacob have at happiness.
As Boone and Laura work to gain their trust, Scott leaves you on the edge of your seat. As the story unfolded, I found it took all of my restraint to not to skip ahead. Not because Scott failed but because the story was so compelling, I wanted all of the pieces RIGHT NOW!
Told through the eyes of Sam, this story is beautiful and tragic and so wonderfully told. It still has me thinking days later.
I still long for the opportunity to give Sam and Jacob a hug. Luckily, Scott is going to tell us even more of Sam, Jacob, Boone and Laura's stories with Desert Flower coming soon.
August 16, 2012
[This review also appears on Andi's Young Adult Books.]
This book affected me deeply. It is one of the best reads I have had this summer. Samantha and Jacob's story is a sad one. No one wants them. Their father is estranged. Their mama is dead. They only have each other. They're way underage, but determined to stay together. Jacob is extremely overprotective of Sam, but he has good reason. He just hasn't shared that with her, yet, so she hasn't yet shared it with us.
They fumble around, trying to make ends meet, while simultaneously fearing getting caught. Sam wants to trust people who are kind to her, but Jacob is still extremely wary of adults. Neither one knows how to handle any kindnesses given to them. It is heartbreaking. I was reading while holed up in a booth at my local bar and grill and had to duck to hide the tears in my eyes. I made sure I left when I got toward the end where all of the secrets are revealed, because I didn't want to cry in public.
The love between these siblings is intense. It's not something you witness every day. The secrets that they hide are absolutely horrible. You think you know what really happened to them, until you find out the truth. The twists will keep you on your toes.
At the end of my review copy was a chapter from an upcoming book called Desert Flower. It is a continuation of their story. I need to get my hands on that one. Well done, Angela Scott.
I received a complimentary copy ebook in exchange for my honest review.
This book affected me deeply. It is one of the best reads I have had this summer. Samantha and Jacob's story is a sad one. No one wants them. Their father is estranged. Their mama is dead. They only have each other. They're way underage, but determined to stay together. Jacob is extremely overprotective of Sam, but he has good reason. He just hasn't shared that with her, yet, so she hasn't yet shared it with us.
They fumble around, trying to make ends meet, while simultaneously fearing getting caught. Sam wants to trust people who are kind to her, but Jacob is still extremely wary of adults. Neither one knows how to handle any kindnesses given to them. It is heartbreaking. I was reading while holed up in a booth at my local bar and grill and had to duck to hide the tears in my eyes. I made sure I left when I got toward the end where all of the secrets are revealed, because I didn't want to cry in public.
The love between these siblings is intense. It's not something you witness every day. The secrets that they hide are absolutely horrible. You think you know what really happened to them, until you find out the truth. The twists will keep you on your toes.
At the end of my review copy was a chapter from an upcoming book called Desert Flower. It is a continuation of their story. I need to get my hands on that one. Well done, Angela Scott.
I received a complimentary copy ebook in exchange for my honest review.
August 18, 2012
When I finished this book, it was after two in the morning. I picked up the book earlier in the day and sat down to read thinking I’d cook supper and put the kids to bed with no problem. I fooled myself into thinking this could happen. My husband took care of supper and putting the kids to bed, though by that time I’d read far enough into the book to give them both tight hugs that lasted a long time.
Sam’s story broke my heart in a million ways. She had believable flaws and thought like a twelve/thirteen year old girl. I cannot imagine the things she went through, the pain she felt, or the realization of what happened to her, but Angela Scott did a great job of helping me to empathize. I cried a lot reading this book. I laughed out loud and I shook my head and balled my fists. Several times toward the end of the book I stood up and paced unable to believe the incomprehensible behavior of some people… But not because I didn’t believe what I read. I paced because I didn’t want to believe it. I didn’t want to believe that things like this happened, even though I know they do.
I was like Boone and Laura. I wanted to come in and scoop Sam and Jacob up and protect them and help them. Their story sits with me every day. This book was such a beautiful and hard book to read, I didn’t know how to be after I’d finished.
Sam is a little girl who will stay with you and invade your heart. This book will stay with you. I highly recommend you read it, but be warned: there are hard things Sam faces in this book, and Angela Scott did one hell of a job making sure you feel it all too.
Sam’s story broke my heart in a million ways. She had believable flaws and thought like a twelve/thirteen year old girl. I cannot imagine the things she went through, the pain she felt, or the realization of what happened to her, but Angela Scott did a great job of helping me to empathize. I cried a lot reading this book. I laughed out loud and I shook my head and balled my fists. Several times toward the end of the book I stood up and paced unable to believe the incomprehensible behavior of some people… But not because I didn’t believe what I read. I paced because I didn’t want to believe it. I didn’t want to believe that things like this happened, even though I know they do.
I was like Boone and Laura. I wanted to come in and scoop Sam and Jacob up and protect them and help them. Their story sits with me every day. This book was such a beautiful and hard book to read, I didn’t know how to be after I’d finished.
Sam is a little girl who will stay with you and invade your heart. This book will stay with you. I highly recommend you read it, but be warned: there are hard things Sam faces in this book, and Angela Scott did one hell of a job making sure you feel it all too.
December 2, 2012
The book was extremely well written, I liked the books twist and turns in the story she got you thinking one thing but in reality it was something else. I thought Jacob was kind of mean but I know that it was only because he cared about Sam but still sometimes I really wanted to smack him upside the head. He did everything he could to protect her and give her all the love she deserved since they're mom never showed them what love was. Although leaving like that was a big mistake, I thought Jacob was being really responsible to find a job and try to feed and take care of Sam. Even though he was still young himself.
Sam seemed fine at first but I knew something was up once I truly got to know her. She had a hard time putting up with all the rules that Jacob assigned, she is a kid but she also had to realize that it wasn't good for her to just leave the apartment what if something worse had happened to her when she would talk to strangers. Then again if he would have told her the truth or if she had remember what had happened before maybe then she wouldn't have done all those crazy things. But I ended up loving her character even when she would make you want to pull out your own hair. Plus she had a rough life.
I was surprised by how good this book was, what am I saying it was way better than good. I recommend it if you like mysterious/crime books. It had alot of twist and turns. A great storyline and characters Boone was my favorite! I read this in one sitting so I guarantee you'll enjoy it.
December 17, 2013
Desert Rice by Angela Scott
A truly riveting, dark story that will stay in your thoughts!
Angela Scott doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to her characters as is evidenced in this enthralling story of a brother and sister that have metaphorically seen the walls of hell. Another “couldn’t put down” read, this story keeps the reader on their toes as plot twist after plot twist happens to these two. The build-up of suspense is incredible to the ultimate climax that is breath-taking in the courtroom scene. Emotionally raw, it left me in empathetic tears that something like that could happen. This story’s theme of the true meaning of family and the sacrifices family members will take after the ultimate betrayal is awe inspiring and not in the stereotypical sappy kind of way.
This was a heart-felt emotional story, but nothing in similarity to what is usually referenced that way. This was intense to what lengths a brother would go to keep his sister alive, safe and protected. Jacob keeps the secret even from his sister, Samantha, as her memory is blocked of the horrific event. The reader doesn’t even find out what that event truly was until the courtroom scene. Not to be outdone, Samantha is equally heroic in how she saves Jacob. Clever plotting on Angela Scott’s part, it showcases how a writer wants to craft an amazing story.
To see other works by Angela Scott see her website at: http://www.angelascottauthor.com/
I received an ARC from The Story Cartel in exchange for an honest review.
A truly riveting, dark story that will stay in your thoughts!
Angela Scott doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to her characters as is evidenced in this enthralling story of a brother and sister that have metaphorically seen the walls of hell. Another “couldn’t put down” read, this story keeps the reader on their toes as plot twist after plot twist happens to these two. The build-up of suspense is incredible to the ultimate climax that is breath-taking in the courtroom scene. Emotionally raw, it left me in empathetic tears that something like that could happen. This story’s theme of the true meaning of family and the sacrifices family members will take after the ultimate betrayal is awe inspiring and not in the stereotypical sappy kind of way.
This was a heart-felt emotional story, but nothing in similarity to what is usually referenced that way. This was intense to what lengths a brother would go to keep his sister alive, safe and protected. Jacob keeps the secret even from his sister, Samantha, as her memory is blocked of the horrific event. The reader doesn’t even find out what that event truly was until the courtroom scene. Not to be outdone, Samantha is equally heroic in how she saves Jacob. Clever plotting on Angela Scott’s part, it showcases how a writer wants to craft an amazing story.
To see other works by Angela Scott see her website at: http://www.angelascottauthor.com/
I received an ARC from The Story Cartel in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2012
This was a uniquely different and rather difficult book to read. Difficult because the angst created with the tension from both the writing and story-line were constant companions: it grabbed me by the throat and wouldn’t let go. Yes, it is beautifully written and the characters come to life in front of your eyes, but continue to amaze, frighten and astound you as the story continues. Whether it was too easy to envision the circumstances and situations, or the instant empathy and need to protect that comes from a parenting side, this book is an emotional rollercoaster ride.
The author has created a tightly written drama, while the characters of Samantha and Jacob are young, and this is easily and readily tossed into the ‘coming of age’ pile because of that; they are not just children or teens – they are thrust into situations that would cause many adults to crumble. And yet – their love for each other, the protectiveness and support that can be found only in brother and sister relationships is the glue that holds the story together. Crafted with a conclusion that is succinct and unexpected, yet leaving an opening for further explanation this is a book that will stay on your mind for days after completion. A very good thing.
I received an eBook from IOB Tours for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.
The author has created a tightly written drama, while the characters of Samantha and Jacob are young, and this is easily and readily tossed into the ‘coming of age’ pile because of that; they are not just children or teens – they are thrust into situations that would cause many adults to crumble. And yet – their love for each other, the protectiveness and support that can be found only in brother and sister relationships is the glue that holds the story together. Crafted with a conclusion that is succinct and unexpected, yet leaving an opening for further explanation this is a book that will stay on your mind for days after completion. A very good thing.
I received an eBook from IOB Tours for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.
November 14, 2012
Desert Rice
By Angela Scott
Samantha Jean Haggert is on the run with her brother Jacob after her mother dies. They must stick together since Sam is only twelve and Jacob fifteen they will do anything they can to keep from having Child Protective Services separate them. Since Sam begins to draw too much unwanted attention from men Jacob has her cut off all her hair and hides her beauty under baggy clothes and a baseball cap. But everything begins to unravel when they finally find people whom want them to become part of their family and the truth may tear them all apart.
Angela Scott has written an emotional rollercoaster of a novel with such a surprising twist towards the end that will make you cringe and cry out at the injustice of what has happened. I loved it, my husband on the other hand decided headphones was the way to go after some of the more heinous secrets where revealed. I say this more to point out that it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it does have one of the best ending I have come across in a long time. I am trying to be as vague as possible so I will not give anything away but also to do this novel justice, it is truly an amazing read so well written and emotional charged that it is hard to set down. Warning though you may want a big box of tissues at hand just in case you turn into a geyser, it’s that good.
For More Reviews be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
By Angela Scott
Samantha Jean Haggert is on the run with her brother Jacob after her mother dies. They must stick together since Sam is only twelve and Jacob fifteen they will do anything they can to keep from having Child Protective Services separate them. Since Sam begins to draw too much unwanted attention from men Jacob has her cut off all her hair and hides her beauty under baggy clothes and a baseball cap. But everything begins to unravel when they finally find people whom want them to become part of their family and the truth may tear them all apart.
Angela Scott has written an emotional rollercoaster of a novel with such a surprising twist towards the end that will make you cringe and cry out at the injustice of what has happened. I loved it, my husband on the other hand decided headphones was the way to go after some of the more heinous secrets where revealed. I say this more to point out that it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it does have one of the best ending I have come across in a long time. I am trying to be as vague as possible so I will not give anything away but also to do this novel justice, it is truly an amazing read so well written and emotional charged that it is hard to set down. Warning though you may want a big box of tissues at hand just in case you turn into a geyser, it’s that good.
For More Reviews be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews