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The Seven Devils
After nearly being drowned by her alcoholic father, 17-year-old Ellen, her mother, and her brother move across the state to start over. Ellen soon meets Neil, a gorgeous loner with a bad reputation. Her classmates warn her to stay away, but he seems to be the only one who understands her. Besides, the rumors about Neil are too far-fetched to be believed. When she is threatened by Derrick (a jealous classmate) it becomes clear that there is more to Neil than meets the eye. In this sexy page turner, Ellen must discover Neil's dark secrets and learn to stand up for herself before the plot hatched against her unfolds.
300 pages, ebook
First published October 2, 2011
32 people are currently reading
947 people want to read
About the author
Sara Danvers
2 books70 followersSara Danvers is a high school English teacher who loves young adult literature. The Seven Devils is her first novel. There will be more to come, but slowly. As she states, "I am a teacher who happens to enjoy writing, not an author who happens to work in a school!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
January 28, 2013
Okay I'm only 33% through with this book but I just have to say my thoughts.
The first chapter was great! It caught my attention. It freaked me out and had me question what the heck was going on and what could possibly happen next...
However, so far the first chapter has been the only good chapter. I am not trying to be mean or anything... But this book is lacking some serious substance.
The thoughts that go through Ellens head are completely ridiculous. The fact that she barely knows any of these guys or people and they are moving that quickly- uhm no. She's so immature in her thinking too. Like REALLY immature.
Conversations that are had- would never be said. It's completely unbelievable.
for example "has he raped you yet?" uhm what? Who would just say that? No one. No one would say that. And if you heard that this guy you barely know but "love" (even though you've known him maybe 24 hours) but hear that he is this rapist crazy dude- why on gods green earth would you allow yourself to be alone with him until you can find out the truth?
And again, why would you allow a DIFFERENT guy that has pushed himself onto you- why would you allow him in your room, on your bed, to drive you ANYWHERE by yourself?
I mean does this MC have any smarts... ANY. to her at all??
She's an idiot.
Everything relationship between characters is rushed. Friendships, love interests, all of them.
There hasnt been any real character development either.
Not to mention it seems very Twilighty...
And I liked Twilight but this is just not working for me.
I honestly dont think I'm going to finish this book. :(
Edit
The second half of this book wasnt as bad as the first half. Sill wouldnt recommend :(
The first chapter was great! It caught my attention. It freaked me out and had me question what the heck was going on and what could possibly happen next...
However, so far the first chapter has been the only good chapter. I am not trying to be mean or anything... But this book is lacking some serious substance.
The thoughts that go through Ellens head are completely ridiculous. The fact that she barely knows any of these guys or people and they are moving that quickly- uhm no. She's so immature in her thinking too. Like REALLY immature.
Conversations that are had- would never be said. It's completely unbelievable.
for example "has he raped you yet?" uhm what? Who would just say that? No one. No one would say that. And if you heard that this guy you barely know but "love" (even though you've known him maybe 24 hours) but hear that he is this rapist crazy dude- why on gods green earth would you allow yourself to be alone with him until you can find out the truth?
And again, why would you allow a DIFFERENT guy that has pushed himself onto you- why would you allow him in your room, on your bed, to drive you ANYWHERE by yourself?
I mean does this MC have any smarts... ANY. to her at all??
She's an idiot.
Everything relationship between characters is rushed. Friendships, love interests, all of them.
There hasnt been any real character development either.
Not to mention it seems very Twilighty...
And I liked Twilight but this is just not working for me.
I honestly dont think I'm going to finish this book. :(
Edit
The second half of this book wasnt as bad as the first half. Sill wouldnt recommend :(
December 17, 2012
From the first page, you know this book easy going be a light read. As the story opens, the main protagonist, Ellen, has some serious problems. Her father is an abusive alcohol, her mother looks the other way, and her brother is only out for himself. With her dysfunctional family, and no friends to turn to, Ellen gets by in life by being as invisible as possible. As long as no one notices her, they can't hurt her. It's not a great life, but she makes it work as best as she can. Then one day, her father's rage goes too far, nearly costing Ellen her life. Finally driven to act, her mother takes her and her brother away. A new town, a new home. A new school.
Ostracized by by everyone at her new school, Ellen's one saving grave is Neil, the resident odd man out. He's smart, good looking, and kind—so Ellen doesn't understand why everyone acts like he's evil incarnate. All she know is, he's the only one she can trust, especially once the local golden boy, Derrick, starts coming on way too strong.
But what happens when she can no longer ignore the rumors about Neil's strange behavior? What does a girl do when her knight in shining armor becomes her newest threat?
What initially had me interested was Neil, our strange bedfellow du jour. I can't tell you too much about him—the mystery of Neil is half the fun—but he's that kind of larger-than-life hero that brings a fairytale element into the story. One can easily connect Ellen to distressed heroines like Cinderella or Rapunzel, swept up by the dashing hunk of man flesh that comes to her rescue. And what's even better, he's a flawed hero. Don't expect an easy romance despite appearances otherwise. These kids have some problems to work through before they can ride off into the sunset, believe you me.
Now, as much as I enjoyed Neil, the true driving factor of this story is Ellen. What is this book really about? It's about her struggle to hold on to herself when stronger personalities threaten to consume her. Some, like her father and self-serving brother, do so out of malice. But even Neil is guilty of being overwhelming and forceful. So how does a fearful, introverted girl find her own and hang on to it? Can she stop being the damsel and become her own hero? Therein lies my fascination with this story.
I've come across a few critiques about how unrealistic some aspects of this story are—the emotional baggage, the lack of adult intervention, the improbably dramatic situations. And yet, all that is part of what made this story so enjoyable for me. Too often I read YA novels that sneak in commentary on good parenting and appropriate teen behavior. That's not what I want to see, as a reader. I want the sex, blood, and rock 'n' roll—even if the characters happen to be teenagers who should have been under better parent supervision. But then, curfews and family meetings don't always make for an interesting plot.
To summarize, this is a very diverting read with great characterizations. It's paranormal, and it's romantic, but there a lot more going on than "boy meets girl, boy has superpowers, boy and girl fall in love and make merry." There's definite sequel vibes, and I'll be keeping my eye on where this author goes.
Originally posted at: http://strangebf.blogspot.com/2012/12...
Ostracized by by everyone at her new school, Ellen's one saving grave is Neil, the resident odd man out. He's smart, good looking, and kind—so Ellen doesn't understand why everyone acts like he's evil incarnate. All she know is, he's the only one she can trust, especially once the local golden boy, Derrick, starts coming on way too strong.
But what happens when she can no longer ignore the rumors about Neil's strange behavior? What does a girl do when her knight in shining armor becomes her newest threat?
What initially had me interested was Neil, our strange bedfellow du jour. I can't tell you too much about him—the mystery of Neil is half the fun—but he's that kind of larger-than-life hero that brings a fairytale element into the story. One can easily connect Ellen to distressed heroines like Cinderella or Rapunzel, swept up by the dashing hunk of man flesh that comes to her rescue. And what's even better, he's a flawed hero. Don't expect an easy romance despite appearances otherwise. These kids have some problems to work through before they can ride off into the sunset, believe you me.
Now, as much as I enjoyed Neil, the true driving factor of this story is Ellen. What is this book really about? It's about her struggle to hold on to herself when stronger personalities threaten to consume her. Some, like her father and self-serving brother, do so out of malice. But even Neil is guilty of being overwhelming and forceful. So how does a fearful, introverted girl find her own and hang on to it? Can she stop being the damsel and become her own hero? Therein lies my fascination with this story.
I've come across a few critiques about how unrealistic some aspects of this story are—the emotional baggage, the lack of adult intervention, the improbably dramatic situations. And yet, all that is part of what made this story so enjoyable for me. Too often I read YA novels that sneak in commentary on good parenting and appropriate teen behavior. That's not what I want to see, as a reader. I want the sex, blood, and rock 'n' roll—even if the characters happen to be teenagers who should have been under better parent supervision. But then, curfews and family meetings don't always make for an interesting plot.
To summarize, this is a very diverting read with great characterizations. It's paranormal, and it's romantic, but there a lot more going on than "boy meets girl, boy has superpowers, boy and girl fall in love and make merry." There's definite sequel vibes, and I'll be keeping my eye on where this author goes.
Originally posted at: http://strangebf.blogspot.com/2012/12...
February 2, 2013
I am kinda over the paranormal thing...except werewolves...love werewolves...but Sara Danvers has written a not so normal paranormal. Neil has "powers" and I am not just talking about his abs of steel. Ellen has recently moved to town and meet Neil. Sparks fly and not just the good kind. Neil comes to trust Ellen and tells her his secrets. She does not freak. Really, not even a little bit? The abs must be even better than described.
Good story. The paranormal part was believable...as far as paranormal goes. Neil and Ellen have great chemistry. Josh is fabulous. Still looking for redeeming qualities in her brother, Austin. Derrick is easy to hate.
Drawback...cliffhanger with no "coming soon" date on the horizon. Come on Sara, throw us a one here!!!
Good story. The paranormal part was believable...as far as paranormal goes. Neil and Ellen have great chemistry. Josh is fabulous. Still looking for redeeming qualities in her brother, Austin. Derrick is easy to hate.
Drawback...cliffhanger with no "coming soon" date on the horizon. Come on Sara, throw us a one here!!!
July 26, 2013
Okay, I read this book for one reason and one reason only. Yeah it sounded interesting, but the real reason is that it was free on the Kindle and boy am I glad that it was because I can't be nearly as upset after reading a book I got for free compared to one I had to pay to read.
What can I compare this book to? Hmm....it's like watching a horror movie, a really horrible Sci-fi channel inspired movie with actors/actresses that exude self-importance and take their job way too seriously. Normally I gravitate to crappy horror movies, well maybe not Sci-fi channel horrible, because I know that they are going to be hilarious and are going to suck from the moment they start. That is the fantastic part about watching them. This book fails in the same way those movies do, it tries way too hard. It starts off with Ellen's father trying to kill her and then her and her self-absorbed mother and brother moving away to live at an aunt's house. Hey Dot, nice to meet you in the two sentences you occupy in the story. There was a lot of that, people and situations thrown into the book to establish why something else occurred and then they disappeared into the sunset to never be heard from again. In a sense it was rushed, the whole story was rushed especially the love. Ellen meet Neil, Neil meet Ellen and now come the thoughts removing clothes and shoving tongues down other people's throats.
If instant love wasn't great enough, let's throw in the fact that Ellen is a complete and utter moron. She's been abused by her father, almost murdered, and then all the stuff Derrick puts her through (he's a gem that one) and she still falls completely in love with Neil A.S.A.P. No reservations, no concerns, nothing! Really because that seems to defy all logic I would believe she should possess. And then there is Neil's abilities, his "Seven Devils" (I see what you did there how clever). Ellen, isn't fazed one bit. Sure she cries a bit but she just loooooooooooooves Neil so much that it doesn't seem to matter he's manipulated her feelings before; after all it was just to comfort her when she was stressed. Ah, yeah that's how it all starts. Soon our hapless heroine is dashing off to cabins in the woods (never a good thing) and to the Big Apple with a boy she just met but totally and utterly loves. Um, 'kay. Because once again logic seems to dictate that she should have a bigger issue with men.
So as we traipse through the life of our clueless and naive main character you start to realize that this story as no real plot, no real direction it's just a conglomeration of various "fantasies" like being swept off her feet, a romantic cabin in the woods, a trip to New York, a fancy dress, and even a fairy godmother to boot (sorry Josh is actually a guy and the only redeemable thing about this book). It was a strange mixture of Cinderella meets Pretty Woman.
Then there were the grammatical errors and what I find super funny about this is the fact that the author is a librarian. Not that that should matter, but unfortunately that means I hold you to a higher standard than most (after all I work in the same profession so I know a thing or two). I mean reading books, keeping up on trends, grammatical percision, is our schtick and I found this to be sincerely lacking in any sort of plot, rushed, and completely and utterly unbelievable.
What was really great was when I got to the point of the book when the only word on the screen was no, followed by a second screen with just no, then a third and a fourth finally with NO! That's exactly was I was thinking. No, this can't be real; No, I can't believe I wasted time reading this; No there really can't be a second book; No way in Hades I would have paid money for this book.
Actually the more I think about it the more it makes me laugh. Laugh because I can't fully comprehend what I just read, meaning I can't believe it was so dumb and I read it. So maybe it has more in common with those horrid horror movies, but I'd still rather watch Sharktopus repeatedly than read this book again.
What can I compare this book to? Hmm....it's like watching a horror movie, a really horrible Sci-fi channel inspired movie with actors/actresses that exude self-importance and take their job way too seriously. Normally I gravitate to crappy horror movies, well maybe not Sci-fi channel horrible, because I know that they are going to be hilarious and are going to suck from the moment they start. That is the fantastic part about watching them. This book fails in the same way those movies do, it tries way too hard. It starts off with Ellen's father trying to kill her and then her and her self-absorbed mother and brother moving away to live at an aunt's house. Hey Dot, nice to meet you in the two sentences you occupy in the story. There was a lot of that, people and situations thrown into the book to establish why something else occurred and then they disappeared into the sunset to never be heard from again. In a sense it was rushed, the whole story was rushed especially the love. Ellen meet Neil, Neil meet Ellen and now come the thoughts removing clothes and shoving tongues down other people's throats.
If instant love wasn't great enough, let's throw in the fact that Ellen is a complete and utter moron. She's been abused by her father, almost murdered, and then all the stuff Derrick puts her through (he's a gem that one) and she still falls completely in love with Neil A.S.A.P. No reservations, no concerns, nothing! Really because that seems to defy all logic I would believe she should possess. And then there is Neil's abilities, his "Seven Devils" (I see what you did there how clever). Ellen, isn't fazed one bit. Sure she cries a bit but she just loooooooooooooves Neil so much that it doesn't seem to matter he's manipulated her feelings before; after all it was just to comfort her when she was stressed. Ah, yeah that's how it all starts. Soon our hapless heroine is dashing off to cabins in the woods (never a good thing) and to the Big Apple with a boy she just met but totally and utterly loves. Um, 'kay. Because once again logic seems to dictate that she should have a bigger issue with men.
So as we traipse through the life of our clueless and naive main character you start to realize that this story as no real plot, no real direction it's just a conglomeration of various "fantasies" like being swept off her feet, a romantic cabin in the woods, a trip to New York, a fancy dress, and even a fairy godmother to boot (sorry Josh is actually a guy and the only redeemable thing about this book). It was a strange mixture of Cinderella meets Pretty Woman.
Then there were the grammatical errors and what I find super funny about this is the fact that the author is a librarian. Not that that should matter, but unfortunately that means I hold you to a higher standard than most (after all I work in the same profession so I know a thing or two). I mean reading books, keeping up on trends, grammatical percision, is our schtick and I found this to be sincerely lacking in any sort of plot, rushed, and completely and utterly unbelievable.
What was really great was when I got to the point of the book when the only word on the screen was no, followed by a second screen with just no, then a third and a fourth finally with NO! That's exactly was I was thinking. No, this can't be real; No, I can't believe I wasted time reading this; No there really can't be a second book; No way in Hades I would have paid money for this book.
Actually the more I think about it the more it makes me laugh. Laugh because I can't fully comprehend what I just read, meaning I can't believe it was so dumb and I read it. So maybe it has more in common with those horrid horror movies, but I'd still rather watch Sharktopus repeatedly than read this book again.
June 25, 2013
I enjoyed this book a lot although the formatting of the book made it difficult to read. The fact that I could overlook that makes it, in my opinion, a great book that is well written. The story concerns Ellen and her very dysfunctional family who move to a new town to escape her abusive father. There, Ellen meets Neil and his friend Josh who have strange powers. These set Neil apart from the rest of the school crown and lead to a lot of lies and harassment. One thing I found hard to believe was the lack of controls on Ellen and her brother Austin in the book. I am not sure 16-year olds could just take off for a weekend with some boy after fabricating some story about there being a crowd around, with no one checking it. I wonder what would have happened if Ellen had been treated badly. Would no one have cared? This is a good example of a situation where there are absolutely no parental controls, and I am not so sure that is very realistic. In addition, a lot happens throughout the book where no one (i.e. responsible adult) seems to care about what is happening. What happens to the relationship that Neil and Ellen have makes for a great story, as well as what the sever devils are. However, I did often feel that Neil had an unhealthy relationship with Ellen, bordering on obsessive. The story is very basic: boy meets girl, girl is interested in boy (and perhaps one other also, though she cannot decide who she prefers initially) and goes on from there. It definitely covers many themes: abuse, bullying, violence, like or love. As I said the fact that I stuck with it even though the formatting made reading difficult, is testament to how well written and interesting the book is. I received the book free from Library Thing to read and review.
November 11, 2012
Thanks to the author who sent me an online copy of her novel and asked for a review. I am happy to do that.
I found this Young Adult novel to be an interesting read since it deals with topics that a normal teenager would never encounter. Of course, protagonist Ellen also has the agonizing issues that most teenage girls go through when moving to a new town and starting a new high school. She desperately wants to fit in and at first has no friends. She soon meets Neil and that's when the unusual events start to happen.
Neil has special powers and one of them is mind-reading. His friend, Josh, does teleportation. When Ellen becomes involved with these two, her life changes in many ways. This novel also deals with teenage romance and rivalry, parental abuse (her dad), and parental neglect (her mom). There are the usual 'good' guys and 'bad' guys to help keep the plot moving along.
The characters are memorable and the event descriptions are vivid. Overall, a well-written novel. I do have one question and that is where did the title come from? Maybe I missed something along the way.
The ending was not what I expected but now realize it sets up a sequel. I will look forward to it!!
I found this Young Adult novel to be an interesting read since it deals with topics that a normal teenager would never encounter. Of course, protagonist Ellen also has the agonizing issues that most teenage girls go through when moving to a new town and starting a new high school. She desperately wants to fit in and at first has no friends. She soon meets Neil and that's when the unusual events start to happen.
Neil has special powers and one of them is mind-reading. His friend, Josh, does teleportation. When Ellen becomes involved with these two, her life changes in many ways. This novel also deals with teenage romance and rivalry, parental abuse (her dad), and parental neglect (her mom). There are the usual 'good' guys and 'bad' guys to help keep the plot moving along.
The characters are memorable and the event descriptions are vivid. Overall, a well-written novel. I do have one question and that is where did the title come from? Maybe I missed something along the way.
The ending was not what I expected but now realize it sets up a sequel. I will look forward to it!!
January 14, 2013
Loved this book... Hated Ellen's family -they were sooo cruel (her father was a monster and her mom, a useless bag of air)..
The kids in the school - so mean, Derrick deserved what he got and so much more.. The bright spot was Neil.... Loved the addition of the characters of Hannah and Josh... Really hope the open ending leaves room for a follow-up story...
The kids in the school - so mean, Derrick deserved what he got and so much more.. The bright spot was Neil.... Loved the addition of the characters of Hannah and Josh... Really hope the open ending leaves room for a follow-up story...
July 25, 2013
The premise sounded good, the cover is hot. But man, I have this allergic reaction to dumb female characters. And instant love made in 5 minutes?? You have this guy assault in your house and you still believe all his BS. I mean really? Ellen was so dumb and immature is was like a 12 year old talking and reacting.
So I'm sorry to say it only took me 22% in the book to give up.
So I'm sorry to say it only took me 22% in the book to give up.
May 20, 2018
I wouldn't say this is a new adult book its more very YA with some mature themes. Mature theme being sex.
I was a little disappointed this wasn't more about devils and devil nature.. everything seemed to really fast. Not sure how I feel about it but this book wasn't the best.
I was a little disappointed this wasn't more about devils and devil nature.. everything seemed to really fast. Not sure how I feel about it but this book wasn't the best.
to-read-i-own
July 23, 20137/23: Currently free on Amazon
August 23, 2014
Would give this book a zero if I could. See what being bored at work drives me to read?! I feel like I lost brain cells reading that!!
May 1, 2013
So i would like to say this first, i had very mixed feelings about this book. Heres the thing, i really enjoyed reading it, and i really liked it, but there were some points it was really corny, and it was very i don't know... i will get more in depth about later but before i did any of that i just wanted to say that yeah i did enjoy this despite the corniness, and what nots. Corny seems to be really bad word to use so don't take it with much meaning just if you want to know what i mean check out the rest of this review.
Also no this book was not the reason for my bad night as it says in my last update status. it was a personal thing
Alright lets start this review shall we? Alright song choice, i have two one is in honor of the title of the book "Seven Devils" Florence + the Machine (love them), and "People Just Ain't No Good" By Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds - this is representative of most of all the people in the MC's life besides a select few. (Neil, Josh, and sort of Hannah).....
So onto the plot! So this book was pretty tricky if you ask me because i spend a good half of the book going, OH i so know what he is, i totally know what he is BWHAHAHA i am so smart, look at me! being all awesome... well no actually i was WRONG, i know i am shocked too. Either way i liked this i am going to say paranormal, but its border line scifi. No not aliens. or is it? I am not telling. but Sara Danvers did trick me. Alright so i guess plot was pretty, well it was an oddity, it was sort of similar to the idea of compt. fiction abusive stuff, but throw in some supernatural and bam you go this. Which isn't to say that it is bad, or trite or anything like that i liked it and i felt like there was something brewing under the surface, and that there could be so much more done with this book if the author decided to make it into a series, and there better be a second one that is all i have to say about that right now. i don't talk about the ending until the end of the review. its my little treat to you for sticking it out with my rambles. alright so pacing wise? pretty good there were some parts that i was JUST waiting for something to happen but it just wasn't.
Okay this is something i want to address both now and in characters, its called a "YA" New Adult Book, and when i first saw that i was like WHAT the fuck are you talking about, how can something both be YOUNG adult and NEW adult? that makes no sense...then i read it. There is sexual, and sexy scenes in this book, so if you are looking for a clean cut version of High School book, walk away. And that it is what i wanted to address. I suppose i was both okay with this, and not okay with this. I am okay with it because a) its real, seriously lets all get over ourselves being that high schoolers don't have the sex because they do. b) it done in a very tasteful manner, and doesn't become a book of sex c) and this is where i am a little iffy about considering it a reason i liked it, but here it is: i like that they waited a bit longer than right off the bat...with that being said....
you can see in my status updates i have a mini freak out...maybe mini is a bad choice of words...but yes i am going with mini freak out when Neil and Ellen first "start" dating *cough cough two days after knowing each other cough cough* have a very serious make out session where Ellen's mind starts to wondering and have very VERY dirty thoughts, and almost seemed like she wanted to act on them, and again seemed is a bad choice of words, i am sure she wanted to. and i was like WOMAN you JUST met him. Jeez kids these days, but here is the thing after she has those thoughts she doesn't want to move on to the next level until much later...not much...but some later in the book. So there is that. i said it. And that is one of the reasons that i was annoyed with this book....
And another reason which is going to be about RELATIONSHIPS!
Relationship: Neil and Ellen's relationship developed really fast, and a part of me wants to blame it on the fact that they are in high school but that seems like the easy choice. Because we all know you fall in love at the beginning of the day and fall out of it by the end when you are high school. And i suppose since i was sort of seeing this as an "adult" genre sort of, i wanted to believe that there would be a bit more developmental, but there was something that happened that made me sort want to just ignore this all together but i feel that you have the right to know. So yes it happens a bit fast, but there are high emotions and a lot of crises that bring them closer faster.
Alright on to characters
Ellen: Well she is an interesting character, for someone in her situation i would think she would be a lot more jaded, and hard, but she is surprisingly loving and caring. She has a very kind heart and forgives far to easily, which makes me think she is naive at times because you can still be good person but realize that someone is no good, (get the reference? to the song choice? no? fineee...)anyways i still liked her because i am a sucker for those really sweet MCs because everyone always wants a badass i am odd, and i like those sweet meek ones, they are usually full of secrets. She does get a little better farther into the book, but i thought she was pretty stupid sometimes, but i do respect her for what she does at certain points in the book. But again she is one of those characters i am almost on the fence about because she does some seriously stupid ass shit and not that good kind that i am sitting there rooting for because i want something to happen she just does stupid shit. alright moving on
Neil: well i loved him the moment we met him, and seriously i don't understand why everyone even the teachers are so against him but will NEVER actually give Ellen a reason until a week or so after warning her it makes no damn sense, if you want to warn someone away tell them what the person had done. Well Neil is full of secrets too. I really liked him he was protective, sweet, and smart to boot! he was actually kind of amazing and again he makes some decisions i am still deciding on how i feel about them mostly he makes the right decision but other times i just wonder... Its obvious how he feels about Ellen.
Josh: is someone i can't talk about extensively but i liked him, i liked him a lot.
Hannah: um you're stupid. there i said it. you were a good friend but if you ever had a book of your own i would slap you across the face then probably yell at you some. you stupid girl, you reallll stupid.
the brother whose name unfortunately is escaping me at the moment: i hated him. when i found out there was a brother i was going to be like YAY protective brother type i loves them they are the best, especially in an abusive story! do NOT be fooled. same with the mother.
Derrick: how Ellen could not see how gross and evil he was, was beyond me because honestly the moment we met him i said god i hope that is derrick (we don't get his name right away) because he is an asshole and i kept that thought throughout the whole book, to say that he was a good villain is an understatement he was a fantastic villain.
Alright now you are probably biting your nails about that ending. Well i loved it. But that is all i can say about it. i will put in a spoiler thing-y, it won't be a super spoiler that tells you exactly what happens but it will give you a good sens of what might happen and therefore you might not want to too. So i will finish this part by saying i hope there is a second one, and i hope it comes out soon. :) kay spoiler time!
So that was that, and that is what i call a review, so there. so if you are interested in reading this perfect go do that, if you have read this and you are looking for a book to read next and you like to read indie authors, well my goodness because i do too! we have so much in common, but you can check out a whole slew of indie authors at this crazy thing i call a blog that i do with a friend who does reviews on compt fiction, and i do it on pretty much everything else. :) so if you want to check us out we would love to have you stop by, so i will give you the link and you can decide how awesome we truly are.. so here is link: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
and here is me thanking you: we appreciate you even if you don't stop by just because are just such good people.
Also no this book was not the reason for my bad night as it says in my last update status. it was a personal thing
Alright lets start this review shall we? Alright song choice, i have two one is in honor of the title of the book "Seven Devils" Florence + the Machine (love them), and "People Just Ain't No Good" By Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds - this is representative of most of all the people in the MC's life besides a select few. (Neil, Josh, and sort of Hannah).....
So onto the plot! So this book was pretty tricky if you ask me because i spend a good half of the book going, OH i so know what he is, i totally know what he is BWHAHAHA i am so smart, look at me! being all awesome... well no actually i was WRONG, i know i am shocked too. Either way i liked this i am going to say paranormal, but its border line scifi. No not aliens. or is it? I am not telling. but Sara Danvers did trick me. Alright so i guess plot was pretty, well it was an oddity, it was sort of similar to the idea of compt. fiction abusive stuff, but throw in some supernatural and bam you go this. Which isn't to say that it is bad, or trite or anything like that i liked it and i felt like there was something brewing under the surface, and that there could be so much more done with this book if the author decided to make it into a series, and there better be a second one that is all i have to say about that right now. i don't talk about the ending until the end of the review. its my little treat to you for sticking it out with my rambles. alright so pacing wise? pretty good there were some parts that i was JUST waiting for something to happen but it just wasn't.
Okay this is something i want to address both now and in characters, its called a "YA" New Adult Book, and when i first saw that i was like WHAT the fuck are you talking about, how can something both be YOUNG adult and NEW adult? that makes no sense...then i read it. There is sexual, and sexy scenes in this book, so if you are looking for a clean cut version of High School book, walk away. And that it is what i wanted to address. I suppose i was both okay with this, and not okay with this. I am okay with it because a) its real, seriously lets all get over ourselves being that high schoolers don't have the sex because they do. b) it done in a very tasteful manner, and doesn't become a book of sex c) and this is where i am a little iffy about considering it a reason i liked it, but here it is: i like that they waited a bit longer than right off the bat...with that being said....
you can see in my status updates i have a mini freak out...maybe mini is a bad choice of words...but yes i am going with mini freak out when Neil and Ellen first "start" dating *cough cough two days after knowing each other cough cough* have a very serious make out session where Ellen's mind starts to wondering and have very VERY dirty thoughts, and almost seemed like she wanted to act on them, and again seemed is a bad choice of words, i am sure she wanted to. and i was like WOMAN you JUST met him. Jeez kids these days, but here is the thing after she has those thoughts she doesn't want to move on to the next level until much later...not much...but some later in the book. So there is that. i said it. And that is one of the reasons that i was annoyed with this book....
And another reason which is going to be about RELATIONSHIPS!
Relationship: Neil and Ellen's relationship developed really fast, and a part of me wants to blame it on the fact that they are in high school but that seems like the easy choice. Because we all know you fall in love at the beginning of the day and fall out of it by the end when you are high school. And i suppose since i was sort of seeing this as an "adult" genre sort of, i wanted to believe that there would be a bit more developmental, but there was something that happened that made me sort want to just ignore this all together but i feel that you have the right to know. So yes it happens a bit fast, but there are high emotions and a lot of crises that bring them closer faster.
Alright on to characters
Ellen: Well she is an interesting character, for someone in her situation i would think she would be a lot more jaded, and hard, but she is surprisingly loving and caring. She has a very kind heart and forgives far to easily, which makes me think she is naive at times because you can still be good person but realize that someone is no good, (get the reference? to the song choice? no? fineee...)anyways i still liked her because i am a sucker for those really sweet MCs because everyone always wants a badass i am odd, and i like those sweet meek ones, they are usually full of secrets. She does get a little better farther into the book, but i thought she was pretty stupid sometimes, but i do respect her for what she does at certain points in the book. But again she is one of those characters i am almost on the fence about because she does some seriously stupid ass shit and not that good kind that i am sitting there rooting for because i want something to happen she just does stupid shit. alright moving on
Neil: well i loved him the moment we met him, and seriously i don't understand why everyone even the teachers are so against him but will NEVER actually give Ellen a reason until a week or so after warning her it makes no damn sense, if you want to warn someone away tell them what the person had done. Well Neil is full of secrets too. I really liked him he was protective, sweet, and smart to boot! he was actually kind of amazing and again he makes some decisions i am still deciding on how i feel about them mostly he makes the right decision but other times i just wonder... Its obvious how he feels about Ellen.
Josh: is someone i can't talk about extensively but i liked him, i liked him a lot.
Hannah: um you're stupid. there i said it. you were a good friend but if you ever had a book of your own i would slap you across the face then probably yell at you some. you stupid girl, you reallll stupid.
the brother whose name unfortunately is escaping me at the moment: i hated him. when i found out there was a brother i was going to be like YAY protective brother type i loves them they are the best, especially in an abusive story! do NOT be fooled. same with the mother.
Derrick: how Ellen could not see how gross and evil he was, was beyond me because honestly the moment we met him i said god i hope that is derrick (we don't get his name right away) because he is an asshole and i kept that thought throughout the whole book, to say that he was a good villain is an understatement he was a fantastic villain.
Alright now you are probably biting your nails about that ending. Well i loved it. But that is all i can say about it. i will put in a spoiler thing-y, it won't be a super spoiler that tells you exactly what happens but it will give you a good sens of what might happen and therefore you might not want to too. So i will finish this part by saying i hope there is a second one, and i hope it comes out soon. :) kay spoiler time!
So that was that, and that is what i call a review, so there. so if you are interested in reading this perfect go do that, if you have read this and you are looking for a book to read next and you like to read indie authors, well my goodness because i do too! we have so much in common, but you can check out a whole slew of indie authors at this crazy thing i call a blog that i do with a friend who does reviews on compt fiction, and i do it on pretty much everything else. :) so if you want to check us out we would love to have you stop by, so i will give you the link and you can decide how awesome we truly are.. so here is link: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
and here is me thanking you: we appreciate you even if you don't stop by just because are just such good people.
April 25, 2014
Ok, im sorry but I HATED the characters of this book. Every single one of them. It's unreal. Everyone sucked.
Let's start with Ellen - the girl is a fucking mess. She was annoyingly skittish & her whole frightened abused girl act got really old, really quick. And she was so fucking naive & innocent & self conscious & stupid that I literally wanted to bang my head against the fucking wall, repeatedly.
The girl was a fucking joke. Don't believe me - just wait...
After her father tries to kill her, Ellen's mother decides enough is enough & packs her & her kids up, leaving the bastard behind. All of this is cool & something to build a story off of -
But then the author goes & ruins it by having Ellen proclaim she loves a boy she has only known for TWO DAYS!!! Ok, maybe Ellen didn't proclaim it - but she definitely thought it!! This is a girl who has never even been kissed up until a chapter ago (maybe even a paragraph, who knows - it was that fucking ridiculous!) who is so starved for love & affection that she latched on to the first guy who showed her a bit of kindness & attention. Seriously, just gag me now.
Which brings me to Neil... Im sorry but I shook my head at the ridiculousness that is Neil. The whole "stay away from the evil mind control guy" was too much. And let me ask you - what 17 year old boy from Ohio (keep in mind that I live in Ohio - surrounded by adolescents) actually talks the way Neil did??? He sounded like a 70 year old man!! It was ridiculous!!
And also - dude gave off a very Edward Culleny vibe. I don't know when Stalking became romantic but I swear every time some guy watches a girl sleep or glues himself to her hip for "her own protection - god forbid you actually trip or breathe funny!" I just wanna die inside. Is this really what has become Romance?? An overbearing douche who follows you around, dictates what you do & pretty much controls every aspect of your life - really? This is what I have to look forward to??? Please, just kill me now!
Oh!!! & don't even get me started on Ellen's brother!!! That asshole - who does that to their sister??? Ive heard of sibling rivalry. I've even participated in it!! But there is supposed to be some kind of unspoken bond between siblings. I could never imagine not cherishing my sisters or ever wanting to cause them harm. Just the fact that Austin laughed at Ellen and made her feel 2 inches tall was enough to make me hate him. But then he turns around and does THAT?!?! Who in the actual fuck would put their little sister in danger like that?!? Where is the loyalty? Where is the love??? Oh my gosh - that guy was a fucking dick!!! And for what???? Because their father was an abusive alcoholic who tried to drown their sister so he has to leave school his senior year to KEEP HER SAFE!!! So he's mad he's not the star quarterback anymore, so he tells their dad where they are and arranges for his sister to be alone in the house with the man who hates her and has tried to kill her????!!!!??? Because he thinks she ruined his life???
Oh my god - the characters of this book!!!! Do you see what I mean??? These are not likeable people! The only person who was even remotely likeable was Josh & Im not even sure what his purpose was other then to provide the perfect out Ellen needed at the end of the book. How fucking convenient was that shit?!?
I think what sets me off about this book is the wasted storylines that the author tried to merge together.
I liked the storyline of a shy, abused girl hiding out from ab abusive father while falling in love with the outcast boy in her new town.
I also liked the story of Neil and his 7 devils; a boy with 7 incredible abilities who has been ostracized by his family and community.
I did not like these two stories combined together. Somehow, they didn't mesh well. The author should have picked one storyline and stuck to it. She really did ruin two potentially awesome stories...
Im giving this book 3.5 Stars regardless of my little rant on the characters, because the potential was there for this book but it just fell short.. & that's ok.
Let's start with Ellen - the girl is a fucking mess. She was annoyingly skittish & her whole frightened abused girl act got really old, really quick. And she was so fucking naive & innocent & self conscious & stupid that I literally wanted to bang my head against the fucking wall, repeatedly.
The girl was a fucking joke. Don't believe me - just wait...
After her father tries to kill her, Ellen's mother decides enough is enough & packs her & her kids up, leaving the bastard behind. All of this is cool & something to build a story off of -
But then the author goes & ruins it by having Ellen proclaim she loves a boy she has only known for TWO DAYS!!! Ok, maybe Ellen didn't proclaim it - but she definitely thought it!! This is a girl who has never even been kissed up until a chapter ago (maybe even a paragraph, who knows - it was that fucking ridiculous!) who is so starved for love & affection that she latched on to the first guy who showed her a bit of kindness & attention. Seriously, just gag me now.
Which brings me to Neil... Im sorry but I shook my head at the ridiculousness that is Neil. The whole "stay away from the evil mind control guy" was too much. And let me ask you - what 17 year old boy from Ohio (keep in mind that I live in Ohio - surrounded by adolescents) actually talks the way Neil did??? He sounded like a 70 year old man!! It was ridiculous!!
And also - dude gave off a very Edward Culleny vibe. I don't know when Stalking became romantic but I swear every time some guy watches a girl sleep or glues himself to her hip for "her own protection - god forbid you actually trip or breathe funny!" I just wanna die inside. Is this really what has become Romance?? An overbearing douche who follows you around, dictates what you do & pretty much controls every aspect of your life - really? This is what I have to look forward to??? Please, just kill me now!
Oh!!! & don't even get me started on Ellen's brother!!! That asshole - who does that to their sister??? Ive heard of sibling rivalry. I've even participated in it!! But there is supposed to be some kind of unspoken bond between siblings. I could never imagine not cherishing my sisters or ever wanting to cause them harm. Just the fact that Austin laughed at Ellen and made her feel 2 inches tall was enough to make me hate him. But then he turns around and does THAT?!?! Who in the actual fuck would put their little sister in danger like that?!? Where is the loyalty? Where is the love??? Oh my gosh - that guy was a fucking dick!!! And for what???? Because their father was an abusive alcoholic who tried to drown their sister so he has to leave school his senior year to KEEP HER SAFE!!! So he's mad he's not the star quarterback anymore, so he tells their dad where they are and arranges for his sister to be alone in the house with the man who hates her and has tried to kill her????!!!!??? Because he thinks she ruined his life???
Oh my god - the characters of this book!!!! Do you see what I mean??? These are not likeable people! The only person who was even remotely likeable was Josh & Im not even sure what his purpose was other then to provide the perfect out Ellen needed at the end of the book. How fucking convenient was that shit?!?
I think what sets me off about this book is the wasted storylines that the author tried to merge together.
I liked the storyline of a shy, abused girl hiding out from ab abusive father while falling in love with the outcast boy in her new town.
I also liked the story of Neil and his 7 devils; a boy with 7 incredible abilities who has been ostracized by his family and community.
I did not like these two stories combined together. Somehow, they didn't mesh well. The author should have picked one storyline and stuck to it. She really did ruin two potentially awesome stories...
Im giving this book 3.5 Stars regardless of my little rant on the characters, because the potential was there for this book but it just fell short.. & that's ok.
January 4, 2025
I...honestly forgot I read this book from my Kindle in 2024. And to be fair, this is New Adult and centers an abusive relationship, so that's a clue as to where my thoughts about it landed. *sighs*
Review to come. I haven't decided on whether this is a 1.5 star read for me or not. I'll think on it and give my thoughts, but I did not care for this one for several reasons.
Review to come. I haven't decided on whether this is a 1.5 star read for me or not. I'll think on it and give my thoughts, but I did not care for this one for several reasons.
July 23, 2018
This could have been so good, but at 65%, I felt that the story had no arc. I was not sure there was a point, an objective, an arc.
April 11, 2014
This will contain spoilers, so in case you wanna read the book (which I stongly suggest against!!) - don't read any further.
November 27, 2014
****CONTAINS MILD SPOILERS****
I can not believe anybody could possibly enjoy this book. The only reason i got this was because it was free, and at the time it had just come out. The only reviews were from people who had been given a free copy so they could give it a review, and man i should have been more suspicious.
I should mention i never even finished it, which is unheard of for me, but after multiple attempts at working my way through it i had to stop. Even i can only put up with so much crap. The whole story goes by too fast, the author doesnt spend anytime building the story she just throws out these huge events in the heroines life and then moves on to the next unbelievable and ridicuosly unrealistic over the top thing. The story starts off with her long time abusive dad almost strangling her to death, henceforth they move to a new town. Well with such a deep mistrust, and valid reason to be afraid of men, surely it will take time for her to form any trusting relationships with men right?
Wrong,dont get me started on the main characters 'relationships' in this book, first she likes one boy (the boy the whole school thinks is weird and dangerous- but hey why take sound advice from people who have known him longer than you? im sure he's really just misunderstood), and practically falls in love with him in 2 days. Then she gets ignored by him for a while, well then better move onto her brothers high school jerk of a friend, whos also a bully and practically abusive! (youd think for someone with her background story, she might have more trouble moving on with someone like this). Then something happens and its back to guy number one, hurray. Not. It turns out he has theese powers, his 'seven devils', that he pretty much used to control her emotions at the start of the book.
Gah, this book is so overwriten for a book that manages to say nothing at all. No description or gradual escalation of events, relationships, feelings, or plot at all. its just one rediculous overly dramatic thing after another.
And did i mention she breaks down into tears every page or so?
This thing was so tedious to read, i dont even want to imagine what the end is like. Thank god i didnt spend money on it
I can not believe anybody could possibly enjoy this book. The only reason i got this was because it was free, and at the time it had just come out. The only reviews were from people who had been given a free copy so they could give it a review, and man i should have been more suspicious.
I should mention i never even finished it, which is unheard of for me, but after multiple attempts at working my way through it i had to stop. Even i can only put up with so much crap. The whole story goes by too fast, the author doesnt spend anytime building the story she just throws out these huge events in the heroines life and then moves on to the next unbelievable and ridicuosly unrealistic over the top thing. The story starts off with her long time abusive dad almost strangling her to death, henceforth they move to a new town. Well with such a deep mistrust, and valid reason to be afraid of men, surely it will take time for her to form any trusting relationships with men right?
Wrong,dont get me started on the main characters 'relationships' in this book, first she likes one boy (the boy the whole school thinks is weird and dangerous- but hey why take sound advice from people who have known him longer than you? im sure he's really just misunderstood), and practically falls in love with him in 2 days. Then she gets ignored by him for a while, well then better move onto her brothers high school jerk of a friend, whos also a bully and practically abusive! (youd think for someone with her background story, she might have more trouble moving on with someone like this). Then something happens and its back to guy number one, hurray. Not. It turns out he has theese powers, his 'seven devils', that he pretty much used to control her emotions at the start of the book.
Gah, this book is so overwriten for a book that manages to say nothing at all. No description or gradual escalation of events, relationships, feelings, or plot at all. its just one rediculous overly dramatic thing after another.
And did i mention she breaks down into tears every page or so?
This thing was so tedious to read, i dont even want to imagine what the end is like. Thank god i didnt spend money on it
September 19, 2016
Book Review-The Seven Devils by Sara Danvers
Ellen flees with her mom and brother after her father’s attack. Austin is angry and blames Ellen for having to leave. Ellen is traumatized and wants to stay hidden in her room. Her first day in a new school starts horribly. Lunch is even worse until a cute boy comes to her rescue.
Neil is a social outcast. Everyone thinks he is a freak and shuns him. So when Ellen sits with him she is the center of everyone’s attention. Neil is nice to her and she is confused when everyone warns her away from him. The stories she hears about him are so ridiculous. When he finally tells her the truth she is shocked. However she trusts him.
Unfortunately she catches the eye of her brother’s friend Derrick. Things get complicated and she knows her father will eventually find her. Everything happens at the same time and Ellen is left reeling.
I liked this book. It was an interesting idea. It was fascinating how Neil had these abilities. As did his friend Josh. I loved these characters. I would have liked Ellen if she would have stood up for herself more. The author created a horrible family life for her so that her timidity was understandable but it was hard for me to read. I loved how she gained confidence as the story evolved as her relationship with Neil grew. I thought they made a great pairing saving each other. I didn’t like how it ended though. The reader was left hanging a little. It was almost too sad to read. I was a bit disappointed. Other than that it was a great read. I give it a 4 out of 5.
Ellen flees with her mom and brother after her father’s attack. Austin is angry and blames Ellen for having to leave. Ellen is traumatized and wants to stay hidden in her room. Her first day in a new school starts horribly. Lunch is even worse until a cute boy comes to her rescue.
Neil is a social outcast. Everyone thinks he is a freak and shuns him. So when Ellen sits with him she is the center of everyone’s attention. Neil is nice to her and she is confused when everyone warns her away from him. The stories she hears about him are so ridiculous. When he finally tells her the truth she is shocked. However she trusts him.
Unfortunately she catches the eye of her brother’s friend Derrick. Things get complicated and she knows her father will eventually find her. Everything happens at the same time and Ellen is left reeling.
I liked this book. It was an interesting idea. It was fascinating how Neil had these abilities. As did his friend Josh. I loved these characters. I would have liked Ellen if she would have stood up for herself more. The author created a horrible family life for her so that her timidity was understandable but it was hard for me to read. I loved how she gained confidence as the story evolved as her relationship with Neil grew. I thought they made a great pairing saving each other. I didn’t like how it ended though. The reader was left hanging a little. It was almost too sad to read. I was a bit disappointed. Other than that it was a great read. I give it a 4 out of 5.
November 6, 2012
NOTE: I received a copy of the story from the author with the request of a honest review.
When we first meet Ellen, she is being held underwater by her fathers hands around her neck. She only gets free when her mom hits her dad from behind. Later her mom gets her and her brother Austin and moves them from Akron to Minster. A small town where her moms sister has a house they can rent. On the first day of school, her brother, who resents having to move wants nothing to do with her while she has the new student worries. It isn't helped when the "cool girls" meet her and dismiss her as not cool. When lunch comes around she looks for someplace to sit and is invited to sit with a boy named Neil. Later that day other girls tell her to stay away from Neil as he is bad news. She also meets Derrick that night. One of the cool kids. She seems to have some feelings for him but not sure and Neil has told her Derrick is bad news. And just what are the Seven Devils?
This is a well written story but it follows the time honored style of girl meets boy, girl meets another boy, which one is best for her and which will she end up choosing? The story is well written which got it the 4 stars but following a normal routine which is why it didn't get 5 stars.
In other words, good but not great. Read it for a good read but don't expect too many surprises.
When we first meet Ellen, she is being held underwater by her fathers hands around her neck. She only gets free when her mom hits her dad from behind. Later her mom gets her and her brother Austin and moves them from Akron to Minster. A small town where her moms sister has a house they can rent. On the first day of school, her brother, who resents having to move wants nothing to do with her while she has the new student worries. It isn't helped when the "cool girls" meet her and dismiss her as not cool. When lunch comes around she looks for someplace to sit and is invited to sit with a boy named Neil. Later that day other girls tell her to stay away from Neil as he is bad news. She also meets Derrick that night. One of the cool kids. She seems to have some feelings for him but not sure and Neil has told her Derrick is bad news. And just what are the Seven Devils?
This is a well written story but it follows the time honored style of girl meets boy, girl meets another boy, which one is best for her and which will she end up choosing? The story is well written which got it the 4 stars but following a normal routine which is why it didn't get 5 stars.
In other words, good but not great. Read it for a good read but don't expect too many surprises.
March 21, 2013
So this book was kind of weird. I felt like the first half of the book was completely different than the second half of the book.
I found Ellen's character as well as her actions hard to believe. At the beginning of the book she is instantly attracted to Neil and they quickly fall in love, which again in some books this works, but I didn't get that intensity from the author. It was more like, hey he's cute, and nice, and he pays attention to me...Ok I love him. Also I found it really hard to believe that she was so willing to be alone with him, as well as Derrick after being abused by her own father. Especially after she just met both boys and didn't really know a thing about them except for the fact that everyone kept telling her to stay away from them. Then she willingly goes away with Neil for the weekend, by themselves? Come on.
Then Neil spills his secret and the book just takes on a completely different turn. I also was really upset at the fact that Austin didn't give a shit about Ellen at all and that he purposefully put her in harm's way, especially at the end. The ending was also weird and it felt like a cliffhanger so I don't know if there is going to be a sequel or not but I'm not really interesting in reading it if there is. Didn't really enjoy this one.
I found Ellen's character as well as her actions hard to believe. At the beginning of the book she is instantly attracted to Neil and they quickly fall in love, which again in some books this works, but I didn't get that intensity from the author. It was more like, hey he's cute, and nice, and he pays attention to me...Ok I love him. Also I found it really hard to believe that she was so willing to be alone with him, as well as Derrick after being abused by her own father. Especially after she just met both boys and didn't really know a thing about them except for the fact that everyone kept telling her to stay away from them. Then she willingly goes away with Neil for the weekend, by themselves? Come on.
Then Neil spills his secret and the book just takes on a completely different turn. I also was really upset at the fact that Austin didn't give a shit about Ellen at all and that he purposefully put her in harm's way, especially at the end. The ending was also weird and it felt like a cliffhanger so I don't know if there is going to be a sequel or not but I'm not really interesting in reading it if there is. Didn't really enjoy this one.
July 25, 2013
I'm a bit mixed on this book. On the one hand, I really enjoyed it despite the unbelievability of Ellen and her family. (And, if Mum wanted to split from Dad and older brother didn't, why didn't he just stay there? It's not like she ever tried to be a happy family unit with just the three of them and he was almost 18 anyway.)
Ellen's instant attraction to Neil didn't phase me either (since this *IS* a fantasy and that's kind of par for the course.) The "everyone's rich and beautiful" in the new town was harder to swallow. As was her attraction to Derrick. I would have so been out of that car and NEVER alone with him after recognizing his friends at the pool party. (I do, however, understand the desire not to make waves and inability say "no" as a remnant of her abusive father.)
The book had good pacing and lots of action. Ellen *DID* eventually grow strong enough to face off her enemies alone. Like that Ellen continued to be "normal" and didn't develop superpowers. DID NOT like that the ending was a set up for a series.
I'm not, however, quite sure I can go through another book with the same protagonists.
(Oh, and Carnegie MelLon has two "l"s. The Mellons are rolling in their graves...well, the ones that are actually dead at least.)
Ellen's instant attraction to Neil didn't phase me either (since this *IS* a fantasy and that's kind of par for the course.) The "everyone's rich and beautiful" in the new town was harder to swallow. As was her attraction to Derrick. I would have so been out of that car and NEVER alone with him after recognizing his friends at the pool party. (I do, however, understand the desire not to make waves and inability say "no" as a remnant of her abusive father.)
The book had good pacing and lots of action. Ellen *DID* eventually grow strong enough to face off her enemies alone. Like that Ellen continued to be "normal" and didn't develop superpowers. DID NOT like that the ending was a set up for a series.
I'm not, however, quite sure I can go through another book with the same protagonists.
(Oh, and Carnegie MelLon has two "l"s. The Mellons are rolling in their graves...well, the ones that are actually dead at least.)
August 7, 2013
I loved this book! Wasn't sure what to expect, but the story and characters were really well done. Neil is an amazing, kind soul. I love the first time he meets Ellen, how he saves her in the cafeteria from all of the ridicule and prying eyes. High school could be such a nightmare, but a Neil would make it a million times better. The only thing that bothered me about Neil was when he got upset and stopped talking to Ellen because of something she thought. That bothered me. Otherwise, great guy, very sweet. Ellen was interesting. Sometimes I felt she came across as timid and, weak is too strong a word..maybe just lacking in confidence? The way she put up with abuse from her father, brother, her awful mother, and Derrick, got to me. But on the other hand, she often came across as smart, accepting, open-minded, and forgiving. I kept forgetting throughout the last half of the book that Ellen and Neil were still in high school, the things they were doing, how they spoke, Neil was loaded, etc. It was a fun read, really well-written, and I look forward to the next. I can't wait to see where Ellen and Neil end up. It was sort of sad at the end how things were left, so hopefully it will pick up quickly with those two in the second one.
November 2, 2014
The beginning is enough to draw the reader in; the tension, the trauma - I was immediately moved by the protagonist.
Then it becomes a bit of a chore. The second quarter of the novel felt rushed and unrealistic (and not in a supernatural way, but rather in terms of the human interaction.) I found it hard to believe that someone suffering from physical and psychological abuse would so easily allow a strange male into her house after having known him for the extent of just one afternoon, regardless of her obvious desperation for connection.
I almost gave up. I almost stopped reading, having become frustrated with this issue, and with the numerous grammatical and typo errors throughout.
And yet, Ellen had hooked me enough in the beginning, for me to continue with her story.
By the time we see Neil for who he truly is, flaws and all, I was rather gripped by his secrets, and their relationship - despite the open, and, rather frustratingly, lacklustre ending.
Apparently there will be a book two, and whilst I'm not on the edge of my seat with impatience, I do intend to follow up on their journey.
Then it becomes a bit of a chore. The second quarter of the novel felt rushed and unrealistic (and not in a supernatural way, but rather in terms of the human interaction.) I found it hard to believe that someone suffering from physical and psychological abuse would so easily allow a strange male into her house after having known him for the extent of just one afternoon, regardless of her obvious desperation for connection.
I almost gave up. I almost stopped reading, having become frustrated with this issue, and with the numerous grammatical and typo errors throughout.
And yet, Ellen had hooked me enough in the beginning, for me to continue with her story.
By the time we see Neil for who he truly is, flaws and all, I was rather gripped by his secrets, and their relationship - despite the open, and, rather frustratingly, lacklustre ending.
Apparently there will be a book two, and whilst I'm not on the edge of my seat with impatience, I do intend to follow up on their journey.
November 16, 2014
I actually liked the hero. He is the only reason I'm giving this 3 stars. The heroine Ellen is an idiot. Throughout the whole book all she does is question the hero. No faith. She always believed the bad people even when they try to rape her. Attempted rape several times, getting beat up, Almost killed a couple times, emotional abuse from a boyfriend and she rationalizes their behaviors. Puts up with it. But the guy who gives her a voice, defends her, protects her and tells her his secrets she turns on him for hurting people who try to rape or murder her. I won't be reading the second book. The heroine is just too stupid and I hope the hero runs their her direction. I didn't even mention the bully brother or mother who blames her daughter for almost getting murdered twice. But she worries about them. I'm am all for wholesome sweet heroines but you don't defend people who continue to try to murder, rape or set these situations up for it to happen. Ellen turns on the man she loves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2014
This book is listed as a YA Romance but it has a lot of things it addresses. I think an older person would like this book. Bulling, Sex, Young love, Abuse, Neglect, Hate, Anger and Friendship. Finally the concept of physic ability. I really enjoyed this a book about a young girl coming from an abusive home that comes to a new school full of mean spirited kids and meets a boy who everyone else avoids and has bad things to say about. Neil is a loner but the only kind person Ellen has met at her new school. Her brother Austin shuns her and makes fun of her. Her mothers only interest is herself. They have just ran away from the father's abuse and him trying to drown Ellen in a pool. The story of Neil and Ellen is full of surprises and the book does have a little bit of a cliffhanger to go to a second book but does cover the basic story. It is the kind of cliffhanger that gives the characters time to grow and heal. I'm looking forward to the second book.
August 30, 2013
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This story was very easy to read. I enjoyed the small paranormal aspects added to the book and it was a very sweet New Adult romance. Even though I enjoyed this I didn't find myself getting attached to the characters in the way that I can. I didn't not like them I just felt indifferently towards them at many parts. Ellen was a very naive teen and Neil had some serious anger issues. I also Austin really made me angry at parts. It seemed as though some of the problems the main characters faced were solved way to easily and maybe needed some more depth to them. Other than that I was interested throughout and did enjoy this book.
This story was very easy to read. I enjoyed the small paranormal aspects added to the book and it was a very sweet New Adult romance. Even though I enjoyed this I didn't find myself getting attached to the characters in the way that I can. I didn't not like them I just felt indifferently towards them at many parts. Ellen was a very naive teen and Neil had some serious anger issues. I also Austin really made me angry at parts. It seemed as though some of the problems the main characters faced were solved way to easily and maybe needed some more depth to them. Other than that I was interested throughout and did enjoy this book.
March 31, 2013
I don't know why this book is not a movie already and I CERTAINLY HOPE there is another book in the works and that it will come out sooner rather than later.
I LOVE NEIL and his abilities. YES! It has a TWILIGHT vibe, but I didn't mind at all.
And why are some people complaining about errors and lack of editing, believe me when I tell you, there are more worst than this one.
I should say, I didn't like the ending, and sometimes I dindt ike Elle' s righteous thinking but aside from that, I enjoyed this paranormal story. I can t believe I am going to say this, BUT I HOPE THIS IS A SERIES AND I HOPE THE PUBLISHER AND THE WRITER BE SMART AND RELEASE THEM ALL AT THE Same time.
I LOVE NEIL and his abilities. YES! It has a TWILIGHT vibe, but I didn't mind at all.
And why are some people complaining about errors and lack of editing, believe me when I tell you, there are more worst than this one.
I should say, I didn't like the ending, and sometimes I dindt ike Elle' s righteous thinking but aside from that, I enjoyed this paranormal story. I can t believe I am going to say this, BUT I HOPE THIS IS A SERIES AND I HOPE THE PUBLISHER AND THE WRITER BE SMART AND RELEASE THEM ALL AT THE Same time.
October 17, 2015
okay so im 20% in right now but i have to stop right now. i would seriously give this book 1 star but the first chapter was a great chapter and it leaves you wanting more but it just seems that after that chapter she doesnt even try anymore it like she had a great story going in her in mind but she eother
a. didnt have time to get it all down on paper the way she wanted
b. she didnt know how to and everything was just come at the same time
or
c. after the 1st chapter she just didnt care how the book turned out she just wanted to get it done
either way dont waste your time here its not worth it. i had very high hopes for this book but i am very disappoint
a. didnt have time to get it all down on paper the way she wanted
b. she didnt know how to and everything was just come at the same time
or
c. after the 1st chapter she just didnt care how the book turned out she just wanted to get it done
either way dont waste your time here its not worth it. i had very high hopes for this book but i am very disappoint
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February 13, 2016327p After nearly being drowned by her alcoholic father, 17-year-old Ellen, her mother, and her brother move across the state to start over. Ellen soon meets Neil, a gorgeous loner with a bad reputation. Her classmates warn her to stay away, but he seems to be the only one who understands her. Besides, the rumors about Neil are too far-fetched to be believed. When she is threatened by Derrick (a jealous classmate) it becomes clear that there is more to Neil than meets the eye. In this sexy page turner, Ellen must discover Neil's dark secrets and learn to stand up for herself before the plot hatched against her unfolds.
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