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Shade #3.5
Shattered
A free download at the author's website on December 21, 2013.
STRENGTH MEANS STANDING ALONE
Or so seventeen-year-old Zachary Moore believes. He’s free now after two months in solitary captivity, where his only refuge was madness. Finally home in Scotland, he’s determined to “get sane” in time to reunite with the girl he loves.
STRENGTH MEANS STAYING SILENT
To keep Aura safe, Zachary must build a wall of secrets around his past and present. No one can know how shattered he’s become.
But the harder he tries to fix himself, the more his mind unravels, until memory, fantasy, and reality blur more than ever. With the help of an old friend--as well as an old enemy--Zachary must find the strength to speak.
The strength to not stand alone.
A hopeful yet heartbreakingly realistic companion novella, “Shattered” lets readers into the fractured mind of the Shade trilogy's most mysterious and beloved character.
STRENGTH MEANS STANDING ALONE
Or so seventeen-year-old Zachary Moore believes. He’s free now after two months in solitary captivity, where his only refuge was madness. Finally home in Scotland, he’s determined to “get sane” in time to reunite with the girl he loves.
STRENGTH MEANS STAYING SILENT
To keep Aura safe, Zachary must build a wall of secrets around his past and present. No one can know how shattered he’s become.
But the harder he tries to fix himself, the more his mind unravels, until memory, fantasy, and reality blur more than ever. With the help of an old friend--as well as an old enemy--Zachary must find the strength to speak.
The strength to not stand alone.
A hopeful yet heartbreakingly realistic companion novella, “Shattered” lets readers into the fractured mind of the Shade trilogy's most mysterious and beloved character.
82 pages, ebook
First published December 21, 2013
About the author
Jeri Smith-Ready
29 books1,586 followersJeri Smith-Ready has been writing fiction since the night she had her first double espresso. A steady stream of caffeine has produced twelve published novels for teens and adults since 2001.
Jeri lives in Maryland with her husband and two cats, who often play tag-team "sit in the author's lap and keep her from writing." (The cats, that is, not the husband. Though, actually...)
Jeri lives in Maryland with her husband and two cats, who often play tag-team "sit in the author's lap and keep her from writing." (The cats, that is, not the husband. Though, actually...)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 8, 2015
*Review to come*
January 1, 2014
Spoilers
-Zach's novella. There wasn't much of a story, it was all just about Zach recovering from his imprisonment, and him settling back into Scotland and reconnecting with his old friends.
-I didn't find Zach's POV engaging at all, he was dead boring, all he did was whine, angst and moan about everything. Yea, he was traumatised about his imprisonment and it was all very sad but his morose and woe is me attitude was dull to read about.
-Martin and Zach's friendship was sweet… Although, they did seem to have some quite romantic and heated moments. Poor Aura, Zach didn't even seem to miss her, there was also nothing to suggest that he even loved her.
-I was annoyed that Zach had to remind himself to be faithful to Aura five minutes after meeting a hot girl. Really? He more or less cheated on her once before and it seemed like he was tempted to again. I'm pretty sure he'll cheat on her in the future as soon as things are strained between them and some girl flirts with him.
-How has Zach never of WH smith before? Anyone that's grown up in Britain has heard of it.
-The Scottish/British dialogue/monologue was either cliched or used incorrectly.
-Apparently British people don't cry or touch or show emotion in public. There was so many annoying cliches.
-All in all, I wasn't impressed, I just wasn't interested in Zach being all emo and whiny.
-Zach's novella. There wasn't much of a story, it was all just about Zach recovering from his imprisonment, and him settling back into Scotland and reconnecting with his old friends.
-I didn't find Zach's POV engaging at all, he was dead boring, all he did was whine, angst and moan about everything. Yea, he was traumatised about his imprisonment and it was all very sad but his morose and woe is me attitude was dull to read about.
-Martin and Zach's friendship was sweet… Although, they did seem to have some quite romantic and heated moments. Poor Aura, Zach didn't even seem to miss her, there was also nothing to suggest that he even loved her.
-I was annoyed that Zach had to remind himself to be faithful to Aura five minutes after meeting a hot girl. Really? He more or less cheated on her once before and it seemed like he was tempted to again. I'm pretty sure he'll cheat on her in the future as soon as things are strained between them and some girl flirts with him.
-How has Zach never of WH smith before? Anyone that's grown up in Britain has heard of it.
-The Scottish/British dialogue/monologue was either cliched or used incorrectly.
-Apparently British people don't cry or touch or show emotion in public. There was so many annoying cliches.
-All in all, I wasn't impressed, I just wasn't interested in Zach being all emo and whiny.
Want to Read
July 26, 2015gimme gimme gimme gimme gimme gimme gimme
December 23, 2013
This review might contain spoilers for those who haven't read Shine.
If you haven't read Shine. Go read it, then come back.
Now, on to the review.
Heartbreaking. Amazing. Heartbreaking. Wonderful. Heartbreaking. Soulful. Heartbreaking. Heartbreaking. Heartbreaking!
This is Zachary's story. The part he hides from the world and from Aura for the most part. The things he hides behind his charm and his smiles.
The story begins with Zachary back in the UK and details his struggle to stay sane, to get better...to be finished, whole.
Is what Zachary says.
The author approaches Zachary's pain, trauma and desperation in a very realistic and respectful way. And even through the worst parts, there will be a mention of something that will make you go "This is such a Zach thing to do!" What I mean is that even though he's quite thoroughly shattered, you can still see the geekiness, wit and every other bit that makes Zach...well, Zach.
We don't see much of Aura. She is there, through their texts, and video-chats. But this is about Zach. His journey, his pain, his healing.
I also liked the way Logan is incorporated into the story. A lot. It is unexpected and puts him in a role we have never seen him assume.
The absolute gift (yes gift) in this story is Martin.
We didn't see much of him in Shine and what we did see was a short chat through a computer screen, and a few bits at the end of the book. But Martin... Martin is amazing. Funny, caring, supportive, fierce, protective, an awful dancer, giving, willing to go above and beyond for those he cares about, loving, and so much more. As I said Martin is AMAZING.
The relationship between him and Zachary is one of the most heartwarming and tender ones I've ever read about (or seen for that matter). He's determined to keep Zachary above the water and that's what he does. No matter what happens to him, he recognizes Zachary's need for friendship and support and that is exactly what he gives him without ever asking for anything in return. Not once.
We need more Martins in this world. It would be a far kinder and better place to live in.
This isn't just a sad story. This is a story that will make you suffer alongside its characters. It will make you sad, angry, horror-struck. And yes, it will leave you feeling shattered.
All in all an amazing companion to the Shade trilogy. If you liked the rest of it I highly recommend you check this one out. It is definitely worth the read.
5/5 from me.
(Is it okay to thank an author for breaking your heart?) I'm not sure, but I will. :)
If you haven't read Shine. Go read it, then come back.
Now, on to the review.
Heartbreaking. Amazing. Heartbreaking. Wonderful. Heartbreaking. Soulful. Heartbreaking. Heartbreaking. Heartbreaking!
This is Zachary's story. The part he hides from the world and from Aura for the most part. The things he hides behind his charm and his smiles.
The story begins with Zachary back in the UK and details his struggle to stay sane, to get better...to be finished, whole.
Is what Zachary says.
The author approaches Zachary's pain, trauma and desperation in a very realistic and respectful way. And even through the worst parts, there will be a mention of something that will make you go "This is such a Zach thing to do!" What I mean is that even though he's quite thoroughly shattered, you can still see the geekiness, wit and every other bit that makes Zach...well, Zach.
We don't see much of Aura. She is there, through their texts, and video-chats. But this is about Zach. His journey, his pain, his healing.
I also liked the way Logan is incorporated into the story. A lot. It is unexpected and puts him in a role we have never seen him assume.
The absolute gift (yes gift) in this story is Martin.
We didn't see much of him in Shine and what we did see was a short chat through a computer screen, and a few bits at the end of the book. But Martin... Martin is amazing. Funny, caring, supportive, fierce, protective, an awful dancer, giving, willing to go above and beyond for those he cares about, loving, and so much more. As I said Martin is AMAZING.
The relationship between him and Zachary is one of the most heartwarming and tender ones I've ever read about (or seen for that matter). He's determined to keep Zachary above the water and that's what he does. No matter what happens to him, he recognizes Zachary's need for friendship and support and that is exactly what he gives him without ever asking for anything in return. Not once.
We need more Martins in this world. It would be a far kinder and better place to live in.
This isn't just a sad story. This is a story that will make you suffer alongside its characters. It will make you sad, angry, horror-struck. And yes, it will leave you feeling shattered.
All in all an amazing companion to the Shade trilogy. If you liked the rest of it I highly recommend you check this one out. It is definitely worth the read.
5/5 from me.
(Is it okay to thank an author for breaking your heart?) I'm not sure, but I will. :)
December 22, 2013
I’ve been waiting so long to read this and it hasn’t disappoint at all, Jeri just wrote a fantastic novella, full of emotions and it’s bittersweet but beautiful nonetheless, truly beautiful.
I love reading from a guy’s POV and Zach is one of my favorite characters ever so you can imagine I was excited to read this, but I was also scared and anxious because I know what the novella was going be about but I think Jeri handled the subject in the best way, it was believable and was realistic, from page one I was immersed in the story, suffering along with Zach and wishing for things to get better. But just wishing isn't enough; the path to be himself again, to get better is not a happy or an easy one.
Reading Shattered, knowing what Zach went through I just wanted to put myself in the story and kick the ass of everyone in the DMP and 3A, so there was quite a few of curses coming out of my mouth as there were tears, lots and lots of them, be sure to buy some tissues if you’re reading this.
But thankfully Zach isn't alone he has the best friend one could ever ask for… Martin.
He might not have appeared a lot on Shine but he sure made an impact and let me tell you, you will fall in love with Martin, he is just amazing!! I kind of want to build an altar or something for him, I don’t feel I can do him justice with just words, he is supportive, caring, loyal, funny, patient, kind, and angel really. Bless you Martin! And blessings to for that other person who helped Zach survived.
This novella is super emotional so be ready but like I said at first no matter the heartbreak it is worth reading, it gives us an insight into what Zach thinks, into what got him to get better and able to face a future with the girl he loves, fans of the Shade trilogy can’t miss it.
Thank you so much for Shattered, Jeri!!
I love reading from a guy’s POV and Zach is one of my favorite characters ever so you can imagine I was excited to read this, but I was also scared and anxious because I know what the novella was going be about but I think Jeri handled the subject in the best way, it was believable and was realistic, from page one I was immersed in the story, suffering along with Zach and wishing for things to get better. But just wishing isn't enough; the path to be himself again, to get better is not a happy or an easy one.
Reading Shattered, knowing what Zach went through I just wanted to put myself in the story and kick the ass of everyone in the DMP and 3A, so there was quite a few of curses coming out of my mouth as there were tears, lots and lots of them, be sure to buy some tissues if you’re reading this.
But thankfully Zach isn't alone he has the best friend one could ever ask for… Martin.
He might not have appeared a lot on Shine but he sure made an impact and let me tell you, you will fall in love with Martin, he is just amazing!! I kind of want to build an altar or something for him, I don’t feel I can do him justice with just words, he is supportive, caring, loyal, funny, patient, kind, and angel really. Bless you Martin! And blessings to for that other person who helped Zach survived.
This novella is super emotional so be ready but like I said at first no matter the heartbreak it is worth reading, it gives us an insight into what Zach thinks, into what got him to get better and able to face a future with the girl he loves, fans of the Shade trilogy can’t miss it.
Thank you so much for Shattered, Jeri!!
January 30, 2014
This was a perfect compliment to Jeri Smith-Ready's already awesome Shade series.
I had been putting off reading Shattered because quite honestly I wasn't ready to let go of the Shade series. I didn't want to say good-bye to Aura and Zachary and Logan and so many of the other wonderful characters that I've come to love and cherish. I knew that reading Shattered was going to be bittersweet and even a bit gut-wrenching. And boy was I right.
Shattered is a story unlike anything I've read recently. It's a story that is raw and brutal. It's a story that will have your heart aching. But it is also a story full of hope and full of love, and not necessarily the romantic kind of love. In this story I found a new favorite character in the Shade series: Martin.
Martin is one of those characters that you want to come alive. He's a character that one hopes really is out there somewhere. He demonstrates what it means to be a true friend. What it means to have someone who really cares for another person. To me Martin is the perfect friend.
Jeri has written a novella that is more than just a side dish to a great series. It's a novella full of depth in both the characters and their struggles. It makes you think and look at PTSD, as something that is both debilitating and something that can be overcome.
If you have yet to check out the Shade series, what are you waiting for? Go now! :)
Note: I'd like to thank Jeri for providing this as a free novella to her readers.
I had been putting off reading Shattered because quite honestly I wasn't ready to let go of the Shade series. I didn't want to say good-bye to Aura and Zachary and Logan and so many of the other wonderful characters that I've come to love and cherish. I knew that reading Shattered was going to be bittersweet and even a bit gut-wrenching. And boy was I right.
Shattered is a story unlike anything I've read recently. It's a story that is raw and brutal. It's a story that will have your heart aching. But it is also a story full of hope and full of love, and not necessarily the romantic kind of love. In this story I found a new favorite character in the Shade series: Martin.
Martin is one of those characters that you want to come alive. He's a character that one hopes really is out there somewhere. He demonstrates what it means to be a true friend. What it means to have someone who really cares for another person. To me Martin is the perfect friend.
Jeri has written a novella that is more than just a side dish to a great series. It's a novella full of depth in both the characters and their struggles. It makes you think and look at PTSD, as something that is both debilitating and something that can be overcome.
If you have yet to check out the Shade series, what are you waiting for? Go now! :)
Note: I'd like to thank Jeri for providing this as a free novella to her readers.
Want to Read
April 12, 2013Zachary....? ZACH!!!
OMG I NEED THIS.
OMG I NEED THIS.
Want to Read
June 5, 2013I can see this ripping my hearts to shreds, and yet I'm still excited to read this...
September 12, 2018
This may have spoilers.
I wish I never read this. It just felt too odd, and disappointing. Zach was captured, and was kept in solitary for a really long time. He is suffering major PTSD from it, and I get that, but his actions were just all around weird. First, I'll say what I liked, that Zach was counting down the days till Aura and he could be together in person. Everything else was just weird. There's way too much stuff with Zach's "best friend", Martin. Their relationship is not normal; especially since Martin is gay, so certain actions between the two felt too intimate. I felt like Zach was cheating on Aura; at least emotionally. Zach completely shuts out Aura's help during this time, and turns to Martin. Zach and Martin sleep in the same bed, and they touch each other; not quite sexually, but still in an intimate manner. Zach also lays his head on Martin's lap, while Martin rubs his hair. There's also a moment at a gay club, where Zach is totally fine with flirting with men because it helps him feel normal. Zach also mentions that Martin's heart is the purest love he'll ever know. It was all just weird. Even Zach's mom mentions something about it, and how if that's what he needs to heal, then more power to him. Another weird thing, is all of the sudden Zach is all sexual thinking towards Aura. There is very little development between Aura and him, it's all really disappointing and I felt so bad for Aura. Zach and Martin were a centimeter away from making out pretty much through the whole book. Totally not cool. I'm so disappointed I read this. Just no.
I wish I never read this. It just felt too odd, and disappointing. Zach was captured, and was kept in solitary for a really long time. He is suffering major PTSD from it, and I get that, but his actions were just all around weird. First, I'll say what I liked, that Zach was counting down the days till Aura and he could be together in person. Everything else was just weird. There's way too much stuff with Zach's "best friend", Martin. Their relationship is not normal; especially since Martin is gay, so certain actions between the two felt too intimate. I felt like Zach was cheating on Aura; at least emotionally. Zach completely shuts out Aura's help during this time, and turns to Martin. Zach and Martin sleep in the same bed, and they touch each other; not quite sexually, but still in an intimate manner. Zach also lays his head on Martin's lap, while Martin rubs his hair. There's also a moment at a gay club, where Zach is totally fine with flirting with men because it helps him feel normal. Zach also mentions that Martin's heart is the purest love he'll ever know. It was all just weird. Even Zach's mom mentions something about it, and how if that's what he needs to heal, then more power to him. Another weird thing, is all of the sudden Zach is all sexual thinking towards Aura. There is very little development between Aura and him, it's all really disappointing and I felt so bad for Aura. Zach and Martin were a centimeter away from making out pretty much through the whole book. Totally not cool. I'm so disappointed I read this. Just no.
March 21, 2020
Great short story in Shade series!
February 14, 2016
Originally posted on 01/29/14 at www.fictitiousdelicious.com
The long awaited novella told from Zachary Moore's point of view is here and it was worth every single moment of longing. (There is an incredible backstory about how this novella even came to be. You can read about that HERE.)
This was a tough story to read. As we already know, Zach had a horrible experience during the summer of SHINE. What we didn't get to see through Aura's perspective, though, is just how hard it's been for him. Oh, there were hints. I remember reading about Zach sprinkling baby powder around their B&B room before he and Aura left it in Shine and thinking to myself how much his habits had changed. This isn't the Zachary Moore we met in Shade. Yet it is. Allow me to explain.
As I said in a post last month, it's easy to cite the kilt and the accent as our favorite parts of Zach. Let me throw a little spoiler your way: You won't catch a glimpse of the kilt in Shattered, though you'll have plenty of opportunity to swoon over some Scottish accents, but you WILL see that not even the DMP could take away the real reasons it's so easy to love Zach. He is determined. He is hopeful. He is freaking hilarious! And I think THAT is the reason I love Shattered so much. Because it is an authentic look into the mind of someone suffering from PTSD, you will feel sad. But then some of the most ridiculous things happen and you'll be laughing your proverbial, and possibly even literal, ass off. Think treadmills and sheep (though not together.)
And can we talk about Martin for a minute, please? And Logan? Heck, even Niall? Oh, and FIONA? GAH. IAN? Just...the entire cast of characters in this story will make you smile. Especially Martin. If Zachary possesses my heart, Martin has taken up residency in my lungs--my second favorite organ.
You can download a copy of this book for FREE from Jeri Smith-Ready's website right now. Please go get it right now and read it. It's important.
And when you're done reading it, head over to Kilt & Keeley where they've put together a special thank you for Jeri and have limited edition Martin & Zach trading cards available! So fun!
The long awaited novella told from Zachary Moore's point of view is here and it was worth every single moment of longing. (There is an incredible backstory about how this novella even came to be. You can read about that HERE.)
This was a tough story to read. As we already know, Zach had a horrible experience during the summer of SHINE. What we didn't get to see through Aura's perspective, though, is just how hard it's been for him. Oh, there were hints. I remember reading about Zach sprinkling baby powder around their B&B room before he and Aura left it in Shine and thinking to myself how much his habits had changed. This isn't the Zachary Moore we met in Shade. Yet it is. Allow me to explain.
As I said in a post last month, it's easy to cite the kilt and the accent as our favorite parts of Zach. Let me throw a little spoiler your way: You won't catch a glimpse of the kilt in Shattered, though you'll have plenty of opportunity to swoon over some Scottish accents, but you WILL see that not even the DMP could take away the real reasons it's so easy to love Zach. He is determined. He is hopeful. He is freaking hilarious! And I think THAT is the reason I love Shattered so much. Because it is an authentic look into the mind of someone suffering from PTSD, you will feel sad. But then some of the most ridiculous things happen and you'll be laughing your proverbial, and possibly even literal, ass off. Think treadmills and sheep (though not together.)
And can we talk about Martin for a minute, please? And Logan? Heck, even Niall? Oh, and FIONA? GAH. IAN? Just...the entire cast of characters in this story will make you smile. Especially Martin. If Zachary possesses my heart, Martin has taken up residency in my lungs--my second favorite organ.
You can download a copy of this book for FREE from Jeri Smith-Ready's website right now. Please go get it right now and read it. It's important.
And when you're done reading it, head over to Kilt & Keeley where they've put together a special thank you for Jeri and have limited edition Martin & Zach trading cards available! So fun!
December 23, 2013
There are no words. Shattered is perfect and beautiful and ugly and heartbreaking. It will make you laugh, it will make you cry, it will make you want to curl into a ball and hug something fluffy to forget your pain, but it will also give you hope. It's a roller coaster of feelings and inner turmoil and any fan of the Shade series will feel slightly shattered seeing what 3A truly did to Zach. More than all of this, it's a shocking view of what PTSD patients go through. One that makes you feel enlightened and slightly helpless, wondering what you could possibly do for someone you love if this ever happened to them. Though the theme of Shattered is vastly different from the rest of the Shade series, it fits well with the books and gives insight to certain events in Shine as well as providing extra scenes that Aura's side of the story left out. It's beautifully written and Jeri could not have done any better than the beautiful story she uploaded in the wee hours of December 21 (though knowing her she's obssessing about all of the things she could have done differently right now). Anyone who has read the Shade series should read this as well, not just for the extra content, but also because it is eye opening and heartbreaking and uplifting and just so worth it. Plus, the price can't be beat!
February 26, 2016
I wanted to give this 3 stars but I just can't, let's say a 2.5 would be a kind gesture and it's all for Martin and Aura. Zach is benched.
To tell you the truth I'm just a wee bit frustrated right now. I thought I liked Zach very much. But his handling of things is so wrong.
And not even that, it's his total lack of communication with Aura. The way he's not sharing anything with her tells me he doesn't really love her like he says or he thinks. He might be in love with Martin though, he lets Martin help so much. Aura, is another story, she doesn't know anything, she's kept purposely in the dark. Love without trust is meaningless. When you love somebody like Zach pretends to love Aura you confide and you lean on that person, you share everything.
After this I truly believe that Logan would have been the better choice. Not to mention the cheating thoughts Zach had about Jen. So let's get something straight, you say you want to be with a girl that you love and be each others first but at the very first thing that bothers you, you just go out, get hammered and think that hey, I could bang this other chick, she has a nice rack.
Yeah, I don't buy it.
Sorry Zach, your ass has been erased from my book boyfriend list.
To tell you the truth I'm just a wee bit frustrated right now. I thought I liked Zach very much. But his handling of things is so wrong.
And not even that, it's his total lack of communication with Aura. The way he's not sharing anything with her tells me he doesn't really love her like he says or he thinks. He might be in love with Martin though, he lets Martin help so much. Aura, is another story, she doesn't know anything, she's kept purposely in the dark. Love without trust is meaningless. When you love somebody like Zach pretends to love Aura you confide and you lean on that person, you share everything.
After this I truly believe that Logan would have been the better choice. Not to mention the cheating thoughts Zach had about Jen. So let's get something straight, you say you want to be with a girl that you love and be each others first but at the very first thing that bothers you, you just go out, get hammered and think that hey, I could bang this other chick, she has a nice rack.
Yeah, I don't buy it.
Sorry Zach, your ass has been erased from my book boyfriend list.
September 3, 2016
This was an absolutely heartbreaking novella. I was on the bring of tears throughout every page and I think the only reason I never really cried was because I was reading it at work and occasionally had to stop reading to actually do my job. Otherwise, I think I would have been in the fetal position sobbing for poor Zach. This story gutted me. It was so brilliantly written and so freaking perfect. It ran the gamut of emotions even if it was heavy on the heartbreak. I laughed out loud some and there were moments where I wanted to smack Zach around because he was being a doofus, but for the most part I just wanted to hug him.
Learning about what he went through in 3A. Seeing how he coped when he finally got home. All of it was just horrible. I was not surprised by the way Zach reacted once he was free, but it was so difficult to read at times because it cut me so deep. I will definitely re-read this even though it was a rough go. I wish I was re-reading Shine right now so I could see how everything goes between Aura and Zach in Dublin. Reading those scenes would definitely make me feel a little better right now.
Learning about what he went through in 3A. Seeing how he coped when he finally got home. All of it was just horrible. I was not surprised by the way Zach reacted once he was free, but it was so difficult to read at times because it cut me so deep. I will definitely re-read this even though it was a rough go. I wish I was re-reading Shine right now so I could see how everything goes between Aura and Zach in Dublin. Reading those scenes would definitely make me feel a little better right now.
January 4, 2014
Wow. I wasn't expecting a story from Zach's POV but I'm so happy there is one. Its nice to be able to see what happened to him and what he endured.
I gotta say I'm in love with Martin. What a friend to have! Numerous times while reading I got all glossy eyed. I love the friendship between Zach and Martin. To have a friend who has your back without question and is just there to look after you when you can't do that for yourself is beautiful to read. Usually I love a book with mostly romance but this is mainly about friendship and healing and it was pretty amazing.
I want good "mates" like that! Its funny but I'm a sucker for accents even if it's written! Love it!
This is a great book about struggling with your demons and trying to get better. I really enjoyed it and it's totally worth the read!
I gotta say I'm in love with Martin. What a friend to have! Numerous times while reading I got all glossy eyed. I love the friendship between Zach and Martin. To have a friend who has your back without question and is just there to look after you when you can't do that for yourself is beautiful to read. Usually I love a book with mostly romance but this is mainly about friendship and healing and it was pretty amazing.
I want good "mates" like that! Its funny but I'm a sucker for accents even if it's written! Love it!
This is a great book about struggling with your demons and trying to get better. I really enjoyed it and it's totally worth the read!
May 5, 2015
This is the story from Zach's POV from when he's released from 3A to when he meets Aura in the airport in Ireland -not much happens except we see Zach's downward spiral from the PTSD & the flashbacks & sleeping problems, the anxiety & Martin, his best friend, is always there for him & tries to help him - but eventually Zachary hits rock bottom when he tries killing himself by overdosing on his pills & he tells his parents everything so he can get the help he needs-and it's hard with his dad dying from his illness too but so he finally gets better
And Logan saved his life while he was in 3A :)
But Martin & Zach's relationship was really sweet :)
But the novella/short story? was just a bit too long but otherwise it was nice
And Logan saved his life while he was in 3A :)
But Martin & Zach's relationship was really sweet :)
But the novella/short story? was just a bit too long but otherwise it was nice
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2015
This may be the most emotional book/novella of all in the Shade series. I have found myself crying, gulping lumps in my throat and generally an emotional wreck at the torture Zachary has been through. I love the friendship between him and Martin. There are some truly touching scenes in there that will break your heart.
I've been a little skeptical about how Zachary's confinement could make him so "Shattered", but I am no longer a doubter. Jeri Smith-Ready is a master at conveying the utter loneliness he felt. I think this may be the best book of the entire series.
A must read! And a free download! Thank you Jeri!! Ten stars if I could!!
I've been a little skeptical about how Zachary's confinement could make him so "Shattered", but I am no longer a doubter. Jeri Smith-Ready is a master at conveying the utter loneliness he felt. I think this may be the best book of the entire series.
A must read! And a free download! Thank you Jeri!! Ten stars if I could!!
December 26, 2013
Loved this. A must-read for fans of the series. Zachary's journey back to okay is heartbreaking and real and Martin is one of the most beautifully rendered characters I have read in some time. The relationship between Zachary and Martin walks such a fine line, and could easily have descended into sordidness or schmaltz in the hands of a lesser author. Similarly, the relationship between Zachary and Logan is beautifully rendered in its complexity. It says a lot that the least complicated thing about that relationship is that one of them is dead! Aura is not central to this story, and that's as it should be. The reader is fully drawn into Zachary's world.
December 30, 2013
I wasn't sure if I could love Zachary any more than I did after the first 3 books, but I do. The story made me sympathize with him while also being frustrated and sad. And OMG the revelation about Finn. I know they're fictional characters, but I'm really, really glad Martin was there for Zach. Everyone should have that kind of a friend--and BE that kind of friend.
January 3, 2014
This one was sad, mostly because I hated seeing how Zach was so broken after coming out of 3A. I'm glad that he had a great support system in his parents and friend Martin. I found the path that Martin and Zach took to be surprising, but was glad that both of them didn't shy away from what Zach needed.
January 4, 2014
This was more than I was expecting. I'd thought it would be an explanation of what transpired in 3A, but instead it painted the picture of how difficult Zach's return was. I remember know how much I miss he and Aura! I would love to read a full length novel that teels their epilogue - college and beyond.
April 29, 2014
Look, haven't read all the other books but I wanted to get a taste of Jeri Smith-Ready's writing, and I found myself quite enjoying this one despite not really being au fait with the back-story. Jeri has a light touch, she's awesome with dialogue and her characters' emotional depth is convincing. I'll definitely pick up her other books when I have the opportunity.
December 21, 2013
OMG the feels in this book, I freaking adore Martin!!!!!! Honestly I am at a loss for words & just want to say I highly recommend this novella. It's hard to read, but so honest & something that people should read. I thank Jeri for writing this novella & bringing attention to PTSD.
February 3, 2014
Heartbreaking look at Zachary after he was released from 3A. Seeing him Shine, knowing there was damage, this shows just how much, and Zach's struggle to come back to life. Jeri Smith -Ready has written the perfect companion novella to the Shade trilogy.
Want to Read
December 11, 2013Holy crap... that new description...
Perhaps we'll "see" more Logan? Maybe in the form of song lyrics or journal entries?
Either way, I can't wait to read this. I'm going through some serious Zach withdraw.
Perhaps we'll "see" more Logan? Maybe in the form of song lyrics or journal entries?
Either way, I can't wait to read this. I'm going through some serious Zach withdraw.
December 24, 2013
So fantastic. Beautiful writing and the missing piece to the story.
My favorite lines:
"Martin did teach me to breathe again. He resuscitated me. He kept this body alive in Glasgow the way Logan kept my mind alive in 3A. And now, in Ireland, Aura can resuscitate my soul."
My favorite lines:
"Martin did teach me to breathe again. He resuscitated me. He kept this body alive in Glasgow the way Logan kept my mind alive in 3A. And now, in Ireland, Aura can resuscitate my soul."
December 21, 2013
My heart broke for Zachary a thousand times!
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
January 7, 2014
review to come.
December 29, 2013
A very interesting read about what happened to Zack when he was released from the white room in "Shine" before he met up with Aura in Ireland.
May 22, 2014
3.5 stars
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