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Phase Trilogy #1
Phase
Sophie Todd hoped that her senior year would be different. Unfortunately, different seems to mean getting punched in the face for sticking up for the new girl, having her offer of friendship spurned by said new girl, and finally gaining the attention of her long-time crush, Ezra Varden, but for all the wrong reasons.
It's a tenuous friendship at best, but as Juliet starts to open up to Sophie, they both realize that the Vardens, Juliet's foster family, are not your average family. They're extremely close-knit—freakishly so—but they welcomed a complete stranger into their home, which just so happens to have the largest meat freezer anyone's ever seen... and certainly no one said anything about Ezra and the wolves.
It's a tenuous friendship at best, but as Juliet starts to open up to Sophie, they both realize that the Vardens, Juliet's foster family, are not your average family. They're extremely close-knit—freakishly so—but they welcomed a complete stranger into their home, which just so happens to have the largest meat freezer anyone's ever seen... and certainly no one said anything about Ezra and the wolves.
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2012
12 people are currently reading
1768 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 16, 2015
THIS BOOK IS VERY GOOD.A must read.Usually any werewolf related series will only have a werewolf(always male) and a human/witch/bad ass heroine and they have an unnatural attraction between them.The most amazing thing about this book is that it showed a new kind of story in the shifter genre which with the authors way of writing made an amazing book and about to be an good series.The most awesome thing about this book is it showed one of the most wonderful relationship the world "Friendship" which lacks in the most of the series now-a-days.I know that the unnatural attraction between a male and female is every women's fantasy but saying that we just cant ignore the fact that weather u want to read a book which is usual like all the other series out there or an amazing book which is about to become an AMAZING series.
So at last this book is a "Goodread".
So at last this book is a "Goodread".
July 26, 2012
4.5 Stars
They always say not to judge a book by its cover. I’m guilty of doing just that. I don’t know what it is about a gorgeous cover that just makes me want to read a book. Most of the time I’m left disappointed. Fortunately, this time I was not.
There are so many things that I just loved about this book, that I don’t know where to even being this review. It was phenomenal. It’s been so long since I just enjoyed a book so thoroughly. I’m the kind of person who tends to pick up on the writing as much as the plot. I tend to get annoyed by sloppy writing, and it makes it hard to enjoy the book. The writing in this book was like a fresh of breath air. It was tight and put together, but more than that, it was realistic. The main character had a voice that didn’t make me want to stab myself with a pencil. It didn’t come off as forced or trying too hard, it just came out naturally.
Sophie was a really enjoyable protagonist to follow. She was just so normal compared to other characters in other books. She was a smart girl, who made good grades and listened to her parents. She wasn’t whiney or bratty or annoying. I got a laugh out of some her twisted logic whenever she was trying to get her parents to see reason. Her parents acted like real parents, which is practically unheard of in the YA genre these days.
Jules, oh, Jules. I think I may have liked her even more than Sophie. She goes through changes in the book, which was amazing to see. Her character really developed though all the twists and turns but still remaining true to herself. I’m not sure I can explain what I mean without spoiling but you’ll probably understand what I mean if you read it. I want to see more of her, and more of her relationship. Let’s just say I’m a sucker for those relationships that have the character disliking each other.
The romance in the book was light, but it was there. I usually enjoy more romance in a book, but it worked here. I’m anxious to see more of Ezra and Micah in the future, and how their stories play out.
One thing I absolutely loved about this book, that no other werewolf/shifter book has done (well none that I have read, and I’ve read a lot) was cut out the misogyny. It wasn’t a male dominated world and females just lived in it. There was no guy being rude and possessive over a girl. The women in this book were strong, and it was very obvious that they made their own decisions for the most part. Yes they had to listen to the Alpha, but it was no different than the way that the males had to listen to the Alpha. They were all on even ground and I loved that.
They always say not to judge a book by its cover. I’m guilty of doing just that. I don’t know what it is about a gorgeous cover that just makes me want to read a book. Most of the time I’m left disappointed. Fortunately, this time I was not.
There are so many things that I just loved about this book, that I don’t know where to even being this review. It was phenomenal. It’s been so long since I just enjoyed a book so thoroughly. I’m the kind of person who tends to pick up on the writing as much as the plot. I tend to get annoyed by sloppy writing, and it makes it hard to enjoy the book. The writing in this book was like a fresh of breath air. It was tight and put together, but more than that, it was realistic. The main character had a voice that didn’t make me want to stab myself with a pencil. It didn’t come off as forced or trying too hard, it just came out naturally.
Sophie was a really enjoyable protagonist to follow. She was just so normal compared to other characters in other books. She was a smart girl, who made good grades and listened to her parents. She wasn’t whiney or bratty or annoying. I got a laugh out of some her twisted logic whenever she was trying to get her parents to see reason. Her parents acted like real parents, which is practically unheard of in the YA genre these days.
Jules, oh, Jules. I think I may have liked her even more than Sophie. She goes through changes in the book, which was amazing to see. Her character really developed though all the twists and turns but still remaining true to herself. I’m not sure I can explain what I mean without spoiling but you’ll probably understand what I mean if you read it. I want to see more of her, and more of her relationship. Let’s just say I’m a sucker for those relationships that have the character disliking each other.
The romance in the book was light, but it was there. I usually enjoy more romance in a book, but it worked here. I’m anxious to see more of Ezra and Micah in the future, and how their stories play out.
One thing I absolutely loved about this book, that no other werewolf/shifter book has done (well none that I have read, and I’ve read a lot) was cut out the misogyny. It wasn’t a male dominated world and females just lived in it. There was no guy being rude and possessive over a girl. The women in this book were strong, and it was very obvious that they made their own decisions for the most part. Yes they had to listen to the Alpha, but it was no different than the way that the males had to listen to the Alpha. They were all on even ground and I loved that.
March 24, 2014
Sophie is the good girl, she gets good grades, goes to church and never gets into trouble. When Juliet the new girl gets harassed by Summer Sophie steps in and she gets punched in the face by Summer. Sophie and Juliet start to become friends and when Sophie stay the night at Juliets adoptive parents house with her long time crush Ezra she starts to notice some odd things. When she and Juliet get into a fight and Sophie goes to the Vardens house she walks into the room just as Juliet is turning into a wolf. Now Sophie and Juliet both know the secret and the other wolves are ready to kill to keep it. Just as things are going well with Juliet and Ezra is starting to get closer to Sophie, somebody starts sabotaging the wolves and trying to frame Sophie for it. Juliet abandons her and so does Ezra, now Sophie has to find out who is really doing it or the alpha is going to kill her. I thought this book was more for the eleven to fourteen crowd, Sophie’s perfection is a little bit annoying and her constant need to make sure people are not mad at her makes her seem like she is trying too hard. Juliet is surprisingly normal, well as normal as a foster kid who changes into a wolf can be. Ezra is the typical teen age boy, his character didn’t really stand out to me. Gil one of the secondary characters in the book, stood out the most for me. He was nice and funny, Gil was the most unique character in the book. The book itself was ok, but the lackluster characters made it a little blah for me. There wasn’t really anything special about it that made the book stand out from all the other shifter books. Phase is the first book in a new series and because the writing itself was good, I will be reading the second book, hopefully the characters will have grown a little bit and will have more depth.
July 11, 2012
WOW!!I loved loved it.
I like werewolves stories in general and this seems to be no exception.
The story and plot is definitely different from what i have read and so i totally enjoyed reading the story.
Sophie is the normal teenage junior who is too good to be true..no bunking,all good grades,ever trusting all..but she has never had a best friend who she can share her secrets..like the crush on Ezra for four years.
She then meets Juliet/Jules..who is strange,wild,always frowning and doesn't care for sophie at first until she defends her in a fight between her and the ever bitchy Summer..and they become friends..only then sophie knows shes living Ezra's house - her foster family,who Jules thinks are creepy or a cult.
But things goes most weird when jules fights with her and sophie to patch up with her goes to her house..only to find jules turning into something she could never in her dream think of and Ezra and family are not waht she thought of.(Nope no clues..go read :P)
Secrets,promises,doubts,betrayals,heartbreaks,lots of action and little romance ..and the story is perfect read.
I really hope there's a sequel to it..i want to know where is Naomi and more of Micah-Jules and mainly Sophie-Ezra..i mean they rarely got moments in this book due to action ;)
E.C.Newman..Great job!
Rating - 4.5!
Sri.
I like werewolves stories in general and this seems to be no exception.
The story and plot is definitely different from what i have read and so i totally enjoyed reading the story.
Sophie is the normal teenage junior who is too good to be true..no bunking,all good grades,ever trusting all..but she has never had a best friend who she can share her secrets..like the crush on Ezra for four years.
She then meets Juliet/Jules..who is strange,wild,always frowning and doesn't care for sophie at first until she defends her in a fight between her and the ever bitchy Summer..and they become friends..only then sophie knows shes living Ezra's house - her foster family,who Jules thinks are creepy or a cult.
But things goes most weird when jules fights with her and sophie to patch up with her goes to her house..only to find jules turning into something she could never in her dream think of and Ezra and family are not waht she thought of.(Nope no clues..go read :P)
Secrets,promises,doubts,betrayals,heartbreaks,lots of action and little romance ..and the story is perfect read.
I really hope there's a sequel to it..i want to know where is Naomi and more of Micah-Jules and mainly Sophie-Ezra..i mean they rarely got moments in this book due to action ;)
E.C.Newman..Great job!
Rating - 4.5!
Sri.
August 8, 2012
An average school girl , a long-time crush ,a new friend and wolves. Sophie Todd's life is about to change forever during her senior year.
I liked Sophie from the very beginning, she is honest with herself and brave ,she sticks up for someone she barely knows and at the same time she is just a regular girl, sometimes awkward and clumsy.
Julie is the new girl in town, a foster teenage living with the Vardens,gorgeous and with a troubled past.
Ezra Varden , Sophie's crush,doesn't pay much attention to Sophie, just acknowledges her presence which is more than enough for her ,at least at first.
Sophie and Julie become friends and they hang out together at the Varden's and that's where she finds out the true nature of the pack, I mean , family.
The book is really easy to read .It has to do more with High School , bullies , friendship and first love than with supernatural beings. I think it is a great first book for young people who have never
considered this genre before.
The Leisure Diaries
I liked Sophie from the very beginning, she is honest with herself and brave ,she sticks up for someone she barely knows and at the same time she is just a regular girl, sometimes awkward and clumsy.
Julie is the new girl in town, a foster teenage living with the Vardens,gorgeous and with a troubled past.
Ezra Varden , Sophie's crush,doesn't pay much attention to Sophie, just acknowledges her presence which is more than enough for her ,at least at first.
Sophie and Julie become friends and they hang out together at the Varden's and that's where she finds out the true nature of the pack, I mean , family.
The book is really easy to read .It has to do more with High School , bullies , friendship and first love than with supernatural beings. I think it is a great first book for young people who have never
considered this genre before.
The Leisure Diaries
July 12, 2012
After reading some other books in this same genre, I was pleasantly surprised with how refreshing this book was compared to other ones I have read. I was able to get into the world very easily and felt that it was believable and well-fleshed out. I liked the element of danger that the author added to this book to make it more true to its world. Also, I thought this book had a good balance of being a story about friendship through all obstacles with a love story thrown in for good measure. It thoroughly captured me from the moment I picked it up until the moment I finished the last word, and I would recommend this book for readers of all ages as one with a good message and a lot of heart.
May 9, 2015
Actually a 4.5 - I really enjoyed this book. My English teacher is the author, and I could definitely tell. Miss Newman, the main character sounded like you haha. (in the best way)
Okay back to my review.
I loved this book! I lovedddd Ezra. Not Micah. Hate Micah. I only had a few things:
- as I've already said, I hated Micah. I hope in the sequel Ezra boots him as Alpha. Super annoying.
- I loved Sophie, but she seemed a little too desperate for her friendship with Juliet, but at the same time I liked the way she was not portrayed as the typical super hot, super confident teenage girl.
- Wow I hated Summer. HATED SUMMER. I had several excellent comebacks but couldn't use them haha.
That is all. Excellent, Miss Newman. Hurry up with that sequel!!! :)
Okay back to my review.
I loved this book! I lovedddd Ezra. Not Micah. Hate Micah. I only had a few things:
- as I've already said, I hated Micah. I hope in the sequel Ezra boots him as Alpha. Super annoying.
- I loved Sophie, but she seemed a little too desperate for her friendship with Juliet, but at the same time I liked the way she was not portrayed as the typical super hot, super confident teenage girl.
- Wow I hated Summer. HATED SUMMER. I had several excellent comebacks but couldn't use them haha.
That is all. Excellent, Miss Newman. Hurry up with that sequel!!! :)
July 7, 2012
It's a bit strange reading a book written by a friend, however, there were plenty of times when I was able to forget about that and got wrapped up in the story. My greatest annoyance about the book is....when will I be able to read the next one! :-)
July 14, 2012
This was a really good read. I wanted to read this book because the author is a very good friend of my son and daughter -in-law. Once I started reading I was unable to put it down. Well done now I can't wait for book 2 and 3 to come out.
July 7, 2013
I... FUCKING... LOVED...THIS. LOVED IT. LOVED IT. But i will try to be as explanatory as possible in my review. but i loved it, it was amazing. please read this.
Song Choice: "My Best Friend" by Weezer for the relationship between Jules and Sophie, "Safe and Sound" by Taylor Swift featuring The Civil Wars the relationship between Sophie and Ezra and still a little bit about Jules and Sophie, and i am going to go with "Romulus" by Sufjan Stevens and while its not quite what this book is about there is some parts that do work well with the book :).
So First thoughts: I really, REALLY REALLY FUCKING LIKED THIS BOOK, actually i loved this book. I thought it was fantastic! The book didn't really scream young adult at me like, the super angsty teens, with their very silly relationships that form on a piece of paper saying "check yes if you like me, no if you don't, or maybe if you would consider it". So on top of that awesomeness, there is also the fact that it was more than just a romance, it was about a friendship that began and formed in this book, CRAZY I KNOW! I will admit i was getting a little annoyed on how long it was taking for Sophie and Juliet (Jules) to figure out what the supernatural creatures were in this book, i mean seriously come on ladies, lets get with the program but that also might be because i am slightly, and when i say slightly i mean ridiculously obsessed with werewolves. OBSESSED. anyways, I LOVED IT! now before i get carried away...wait! there is something else i want to say really quick! This was really well written, the MCs were smart, witty, funny and fantastic! Loved it really!
Plot: While I don't think it started out slow, because i really didn't there was a point though i was going, GET ON WITH IT! (holy grail style...monty python, come on, please tell me you understand that reference!) anyways to myself GET ON WITH IT! I thought that the book was really well paced kept me wanting to read it non-stop but if i ABSOLUTELY had to stop for whatever reason i wasn't going to tear out my own eyes you know you so i could keep them on the computer screen and keep reading. But really i didn't want to stop anyways but we all have things we need to get done right? Point is pacing was excellent! The book while i realize that people who don't like hardcore werewolf stuff might not enjoy this because it is heavy on pack hierarchy and all that jazz i enjoyed it because i love werewolves, but i do want to rebel certain things...anyways! no spoilers here! So i did like how while it seemed playful and fun at times, I had to break my awesome streak of Despicable Me gifs in my statuses because it did turn serious, and it did make me feel completely and utterly helpless as I imagine Sophie did. I felt her fear, her hopelessness, her pain. I really connected with her but that is more for characters sorry! Well sort of. I did feel bad because in the first...well sort of throughout the book people treated Sophie like crap and she is the sweetest thing since sugar! i mean i can't imagine her ever hurting a fly! Anyways i will get to that later. or now...
Characters:
Sophie: She was our MC and narrator. I loved her! Legit loved her. She was such a total sweetheart. Though i was slightly confused about her past, it mentions much later in the novel (oh don't worry its not that big of a deal!) that she moved to this town but we don't know when, and she also mentions that Jules is her only, best friend, like ever. So i was like...um why? But then i realized that it might be crazy recognizing crazy. I will openly admit that is a trait of mine ;). I just really adored her out of ordinary characteristics, its sort of hard to explain its sort of one of those things you have to experience to understand. She rambles like all the time, she is overly optimistic, and again just a total sweetheart. While the other characters might be rude to her, or what nots its like watching a puppy getting kicked you just want to go in and protect her! while she does have moments where she grows some lady balls i will admit she might be an MC not everyone is going to love. I loved her though i really liked her style and what not. She was an amazing friend, OMGOD AND OHH THERE WAS THIS PART AT THE END WHERE JUST she made me want to attack hug her it was just Ahhhhh-mazing! seriously it was just perfect!
Juliet (Jules): She is the emerging new best friend. she is hard around the edges, and on the inside as well but while she takes time to open up to Sophie its obvious that when she does she cares immensely for her. She would kill for Sophie, and i loved their friendship, i loved that Jules while is a natural protector that Sophie becomes a protector for her as well. They are such a fun duet to see grow into a best friend relationship. While she seems hardcore, she does have her vulnerable side and lots of mystery around her. I cannot wait to learn more about her honestly.
Ezra: I was uncertain about him a lot of time to be honest. Up til the near end i was concerned that he didn't feel the same way that Sophie so obviously felt for him. And while i know he does care i am still a little wary of him to be honest. As a character he was a little flat when it came to him, while i could see he had a bit of a flirt in him, a lot of serious, and a little jello he could have been expanded more but i am letting it go because it was the first book in a trilogy, and this i felt was more of a book about the building of the world, and the relationship between Jules and Sophie which i loved!
The rest of the pack... i mean characters ;) they were all good, i liked them and i feel like they all have a lot of growing to do but its alright we got two books to go, and lots of time for the growing! YAYY
so the end of the book, obviously there are unanswered questions, and loose-ties but ended neatly enough that you won't be ripping your hair out screaming, GODDAMN CLIFFHANGER! so that is an A plus plus in my book!!
Soooo this is where it gets sort of awkward, i tell you i have a blog, you run away like your shirt is on fire. its alright i am not offended if you want to check it out you can. know that a friend and i do it together so its a nice mixture of stuff! soooo here is a link stop by if you want: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
Song Choice: "My Best Friend" by Weezer for the relationship between Jules and Sophie, "Safe and Sound" by Taylor Swift featuring The Civil Wars the relationship between Sophie and Ezra and still a little bit about Jules and Sophie, and i am going to go with "Romulus" by Sufjan Stevens and while its not quite what this book is about there is some parts that do work well with the book :).
So First thoughts: I really, REALLY REALLY FUCKING LIKED THIS BOOK, actually i loved this book. I thought it was fantastic! The book didn't really scream young adult at me like, the super angsty teens, with their very silly relationships that form on a piece of paper saying "check yes if you like me, no if you don't, or maybe if you would consider it". So on top of that awesomeness, there is also the fact that it was more than just a romance, it was about a friendship that began and formed in this book, CRAZY I KNOW! I will admit i was getting a little annoyed on how long it was taking for Sophie and Juliet (Jules) to figure out what the supernatural creatures were in this book, i mean seriously come on ladies, lets get with the program but that also might be because i am slightly, and when i say slightly i mean ridiculously obsessed with werewolves. OBSESSED. anyways, I LOVED IT! now before i get carried away...wait! there is something else i want to say really quick! This was really well written, the MCs were smart, witty, funny and fantastic! Loved it really!
Plot: While I don't think it started out slow, because i really didn't there was a point though i was going, GET ON WITH IT! (holy grail style...monty python, come on, please tell me you understand that reference!) anyways to myself GET ON WITH IT! I thought that the book was really well paced kept me wanting to read it non-stop but if i ABSOLUTELY had to stop for whatever reason i wasn't going to tear out my own eyes you know you so i could keep them on the computer screen and keep reading. But really i didn't want to stop anyways but we all have things we need to get done right? Point is pacing was excellent! The book while i realize that people who don't like hardcore werewolf stuff might not enjoy this because it is heavy on pack hierarchy and all that jazz i enjoyed it because i love werewolves, but i do want to rebel certain things...anyways! no spoilers here! So i did like how while it seemed playful and fun at times, I had to break my awesome streak of Despicable Me gifs in my statuses because it did turn serious, and it did make me feel completely and utterly helpless as I imagine Sophie did. I felt her fear, her hopelessness, her pain. I really connected with her but that is more for characters sorry! Well sort of. I did feel bad because in the first...well sort of throughout the book people treated Sophie like crap and she is the sweetest thing since sugar! i mean i can't imagine her ever hurting a fly! Anyways i will get to that later. or now...
Characters:
Sophie: She was our MC and narrator. I loved her! Legit loved her. She was such a total sweetheart. Though i was slightly confused about her past, it mentions much later in the novel (oh don't worry its not that big of a deal!) that she moved to this town but we don't know when, and she also mentions that Jules is her only, best friend, like ever. So i was like...um why? But then i realized that it might be crazy recognizing crazy. I will openly admit that is a trait of mine ;). I just really adored her out of ordinary characteristics, its sort of hard to explain its sort of one of those things you have to experience to understand. She rambles like all the time, she is overly optimistic, and again just a total sweetheart. While the other characters might be rude to her, or what nots its like watching a puppy getting kicked you just want to go in and protect her! while she does have moments where she grows some lady balls i will admit she might be an MC not everyone is going to love. I loved her though i really liked her style and what not. She was an amazing friend, OMGOD AND OHH THERE WAS THIS PART AT THE END WHERE JUST she made me want to attack hug her it was just Ahhhhh-mazing! seriously it was just perfect!
Juliet (Jules): She is the emerging new best friend. she is hard around the edges, and on the inside as well but while she takes time to open up to Sophie its obvious that when she does she cares immensely for her. She would kill for Sophie, and i loved their friendship, i loved that Jules while is a natural protector that Sophie becomes a protector for her as well. They are such a fun duet to see grow into a best friend relationship. While she seems hardcore, she does have her vulnerable side and lots of mystery around her. I cannot wait to learn more about her honestly.
Ezra: I was uncertain about him a lot of time to be honest. Up til the near end i was concerned that he didn't feel the same way that Sophie so obviously felt for him. And while i know he does care i am still a little wary of him to be honest. As a character he was a little flat when it came to him, while i could see he had a bit of a flirt in him, a lot of serious, and a little jello he could have been expanded more but i am letting it go because it was the first book in a trilogy, and this i felt was more of a book about the building of the world, and the relationship between Jules and Sophie which i loved!
The rest of the pack... i mean characters ;) they were all good, i liked them and i feel like they all have a lot of growing to do but its alright we got two books to go, and lots of time for the growing! YAYY
so the end of the book, obviously there are unanswered questions, and loose-ties but ended neatly enough that you won't be ripping your hair out screaming, GODDAMN CLIFFHANGER! so that is an A plus plus in my book!!
Soooo this is where it gets sort of awkward, i tell you i have a blog, you run away like your shirt is on fire. its alright i am not offended if you want to check it out you can. know that a friend and i do it together so its a nice mixture of stuff! soooo here is a link stop by if you want: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
March 2, 2017
Rating: 4/5 stars
Summary: Sophie’s a senior who’s life takes an interesting turn after befriending fellow senior, Juliet. She’s now dealing with temperamental wolves, a crush who’s finally talking to her, and a mysterious enemy who might be closer than it seems.
My Thoughts: I wasn’t sure what to expect with this as werewolf books are more often than not pretty bad, but surprisingly, I really liked this book. It’s well paced, with an interesting plot and (mostly) engaging characters. I’m glad there will more in the series because I can definitely see the entire world and characters being fleshed out more.
I thought midway through that this might be a five star rating, but when I finished, I just couldn’t do it. My only real complaint is that Sophie really didn’t have any character arc. She wasn’t necessarily boring as I liked her voice, but I wished there had been some sort of development for her.
~Gryffindor Book Reviews
https://gryffindorbookreviews.wordpre...
Summary: Sophie’s a senior who’s life takes an interesting turn after befriending fellow senior, Juliet. She’s now dealing with temperamental wolves, a crush who’s finally talking to her, and a mysterious enemy who might be closer than it seems.
My Thoughts: I wasn’t sure what to expect with this as werewolf books are more often than not pretty bad, but surprisingly, I really liked this book. It’s well paced, with an interesting plot and (mostly) engaging characters. I’m glad there will more in the series because I can definitely see the entire world and characters being fleshed out more.
I thought midway through that this might be a five star rating, but when I finished, I just couldn’t do it. My only real complaint is that Sophie really didn’t have any character arc. She wasn’t necessarily boring as I liked her voice, but I wished there had been some sort of development for her.
~Gryffindor Book Reviews
https://gryffindorbookreviews.wordpre...
September 25, 2017
E.C. Newman gave me the perfect book. I have been searching for a good YA romance shifter-wolf novel for a while and this one was everything I wanted! The novel started off with a Ka-Pow... quite literally.
Phase was balanced well between the love interest, the friend, and family. Sophie was such a normal teenage girl, I adored her and how relatable she was and I enjoyed the silliness of her inner monologue. She was always true to herself and stayed a good girl throughout the novel.
Jules is the bad girl who gets in trouble more often than not. She's so funny thinking the Varnon's are a cult and how most of her ideas tend to have Sophie doing something she never would. She's so loyal, I want Jules as a best friend!
I wish we had more of Gil and his band and I really wish we had more of Ezra and Sophie together. There was just so much freaking action! I'm not even kidding, my heart was pounding and I was sweating right along with these characters. It was intense.
Phase was balanced well between the love interest, the friend, and family. Sophie was such a normal teenage girl, I adored her and how relatable she was and I enjoyed the silliness of her inner monologue. She was always true to herself and stayed a good girl throughout the novel.
Jules is the bad girl who gets in trouble more often than not. She's so funny thinking the Varnon's are a cult and how most of her ideas tend to have Sophie doing something she never would. She's so loyal, I want Jules as a best friend!
I wish we had more of Gil and his band and I really wish we had more of Ezra and Sophie together. There was just so much freaking action! I'm not even kidding, my heart was pounding and I was sweating right along with these characters. It was intense.
February 16, 2013
OK, so this book started off much different than the typical lycanthrope - "phase" I guess we are calling it - book. Honestly, I was hooked immediately. The narrative and perspective of Sophie was so refreshing and I found myself devouring the first ten or chapters just to find out where the plot was heading. Actually this was the case with most of book. I can honestly say the whole read, I felt, was leading up to some monumental event, and here lies the problem.
The character development early on drew me in. The relationship between Sophie and Jules was genuine and well constructed and I fell in love with both of them. One was the support (family) and in turn the other was the protector. It was a beautiful relationship and one that will stick with me. The bond they formed was one of the most realistic I have read (no super instant love sess) in a novel and it really carried the book forward.
The problem with the book lies in the ending, or lack thereof. There was no conclusion to the massive build up of intrigue that the author presented. I take that back, there was a conclusion, a horribly unsatisfying conclusion with very little left to be excited for in a sequel. Who even cares about the sequel, the ending of this book was beyond underwhelming. The whole reason behind the one star is that I honestly felt some amazing conclusion was just a chapter away until I reached the last page - the disappointment was more than I could bear.
A great start to the book - I felt invested in Sophie and Jules - but the last third just fell apart in my opinion... sad.
The character development early on drew me in. The relationship between Sophie and Jules was genuine and well constructed and I fell in love with both of them. One was the support (family) and in turn the other was the protector. It was a beautiful relationship and one that will stick with me. The bond they formed was one of the most realistic I have read (no super instant love sess) in a novel and it really carried the book forward.
The problem with the book lies in the ending, or lack thereof. There was no conclusion to the massive build up of intrigue that the author presented. I take that back, there was a conclusion, a horribly unsatisfying conclusion with very little left to be excited for in a sequel. Who even cares about the sequel, the ending of this book was beyond underwhelming. The whole reason behind the one star is that I honestly felt some amazing conclusion was just a chapter away until I reached the last page - the disappointment was more than I could bear.
A great start to the book - I felt invested in Sophie and Jules - but the last third just fell apart in my opinion... sad.
March 23, 2013
Having read this book its various stages it is hard for me to step back and write an impartial review, but having just finished reading the whole and complete published version I want to do my best to try.
One thing I love about this book is the relationship between Sophie and Jules, which, quite frankly is one of the main points of the story. These days it is rare to see such a beautiful and well done relationship between two girls that isn't portrayed as a lesbian relationship, but a good to honest friendship. This particular genre also tends to focus on romantic relationships and I love how the friendship is the main focus while the romance is a sweet and cute little side piece.
I also like that while there is a darker side to the wolves or "shifters," particularly when it comes to pack law, these people/characters are not some sort of monster. An early teen or maybe even late elementary school child could read this book to indulge in an interest in fantasy and werewolves without the content being inappropriate, too scary or too sexual. The book contains the right amount of tension and suspense without being too scary and just enough romance without being too racy.
Finally, I really like the characters in this book. Sophie is sweet, Jules is just really cool and Ezra and the boys are fun and cute in an endearing dog-like way. I love when they display affectionate dog or puppy type traits as humans!
I am very much looking forward to book 2 and book 3 of this trilogy and seeing some of the various other characters develop and learning their stories as well.
One thing I love about this book is the relationship between Sophie and Jules, which, quite frankly is one of the main points of the story. These days it is rare to see such a beautiful and well done relationship between two girls that isn't portrayed as a lesbian relationship, but a good to honest friendship. This particular genre also tends to focus on romantic relationships and I love how the friendship is the main focus while the romance is a sweet and cute little side piece.
I also like that while there is a darker side to the wolves or "shifters," particularly when it comes to pack law, these people/characters are not some sort of monster. An early teen or maybe even late elementary school child could read this book to indulge in an interest in fantasy and werewolves without the content being inappropriate, too scary or too sexual. The book contains the right amount of tension and suspense without being too scary and just enough romance without being too racy.
Finally, I really like the characters in this book. Sophie is sweet, Jules is just really cool and Ezra and the boys are fun and cute in an endearing dog-like way. I love when they display affectionate dog or puppy type traits as humans!
I am very much looking forward to book 2 and book 3 of this trilogy and seeing some of the various other characters develop and learning their stories as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2012
So, I don't have a lot of experience w/ YA paranormal romance, but I did read a few chapters of that famous vampire series some years back, and PHASE is better written. I can forgive a lot of faults in a book, but bad writing, it seems to me, cannot be overcome. That's step one for me.
PHASE is a quick read, in part because it's very much dialogue-driven. In that respect, I was impressed by how deeply the author had imagined her characters; convincing body language constantly accompanies the conversations, and the author hits upon the perfect gesture more than once, creating the vivid and continuous dream that keeps us turning pages.
There are also a number of tense moments when she productively triangulates relationships between characters, and that serves to drive the narrative forward and let conflict unfold organically.
As a high-minded literary fiction person, I admit that I can't always say of the books I read and admire, "That was a lot of fun to read," or, "I really enjoyed that." PHASE was a nice summer read for me because I *did* enjoy it very much. And I look forward to the next installment.
PHASE is a quick read, in part because it's very much dialogue-driven. In that respect, I was impressed by how deeply the author had imagined her characters; convincing body language constantly accompanies the conversations, and the author hits upon the perfect gesture more than once, creating the vivid and continuous dream that keeps us turning pages.
There are also a number of tense moments when she productively triangulates relationships between characters, and that serves to drive the narrative forward and let conflict unfold organically.
As a high-minded literary fiction person, I admit that I can't always say of the books I read and admire, "That was a lot of fun to read," or, "I really enjoyed that." PHASE was a nice summer read for me because I *did* enjoy it very much. And I look forward to the next installment.
January 6, 2013
I won this book free on the goodreads giveaways! The author autographed the book and sent me a note with a pin! Loved it and definitely get it :-) Spoiled pack princess.
The book was awesome. It was very fast paced and interesting. There were several times where I would be sitting there reading with a stupid, cheesy grin on my face. I laughed out loud many times! This is definitely a must read! There are few books that I can read again but this is one of them!!
The book is about a girl names Sophie who meets the new girl Juilet and befriends her. But it takes awhile for Juilet to reciprocate that friendship. Add Summer, a typical "mean girl" to the mix and it gets really interesting. Oh, and did I mention wolves..... and Sophie's long time crush Ezra. :-) Don't read any further- possible spoiler!
I don't know if there is another book coming out after this but I hope so! I am interested to know what happeneds with Naomi!
The book was awesome. It was very fast paced and interesting. There were several times where I would be sitting there reading with a stupid, cheesy grin on my face. I laughed out loud many times! This is definitely a must read! There are few books that I can read again but this is one of them!!
The book is about a girl names Sophie who meets the new girl Juilet and befriends her. But it takes awhile for Juilet to reciprocate that friendship. Add Summer, a typical "mean girl" to the mix and it gets really interesting. Oh, and did I mention wolves..... and Sophie's long time crush Ezra. :-) Don't read any further- possible spoiler!
I don't know if there is another book coming out after this but I hope so! I am interested to know what happeneds with Naomi!
August 21, 2017
The protagonist of this book was totally lacking in both spine and self-respect. She backed down from nearly every confrontation, showed loyalty to those who mistreated her, acted against her own personal interest and instincts at the pressure of others who were often unkind to her, and excused the inexcusable actions of others almost instantly, though those others often offered no real apologies or reparations for their heinous actions. She was overall weak willed and seemed to show a normalization of unhealthy relationship dynamics. Though she was basically a good – if stupid – person, I could not respect or relate to her as a main character. I most certainly could not respect or relate to the book’s other primary characters as well, though for much different reasons.
These other characters, who for the most part were NOT portrayed in this book as villains mind you, took advantage of the lead’s doormat personality and walked all over her. The werewolf pack, who was supposedly friendly toward her, took every opportunity to remind her that she was not one of them, that she would never be one of them, and that her happiness, well-being, and even her continued existence were all secondary to the pack’s well-being. They systematically isolated her from others in her life to minimize their chance of exposure, and she timidly goes along with this. They kidnap, terrorize and attempt to kill her when they wrongly suspect that she is threatening them with exposure, though she has always been loyal to them and they have no hard proof of her so-called crimes. Despite all that she has done and sacrificed to shield them and prove herself to them, their alpha is not even willing to pause his planned murder of her long to listen to the tape she provides to exonerate herself, because he’s frustrated with how long it takes her to find the right spot to listen to on the tape. When the issue is forced before he can end the protagonist and the true guilty party is exposed as one of his packmates, suddenly the “crimes” he was willing to kill her for are viewed as far less severe and death is no longer an option as punishment. Despite this injustice, the protagonist instantly forgives all her would-be killers, though they only offer her some half-hearted apologies couched in justification of their actions, and do nothing to redeem themselves after the fact. She even goes so far as to apologize to the alpha who just tried to kill her for the “misunderstanding.” Really? Who does that?
The beta wolf whom the author sets up as the lead character’s sort-of-boyfriend allows this repeated mistreatment of her, alternating between excusing the behavior, sometimes even participating in it, and other times just passively allowing it to happen even when he recognizes it as wrong. He makes it clear through his actions that his first loyalty is to his pack, despite all his protestations of being enamored with and devoted to the leading lady. He makes some anemic protests about her innocence toward the end, after (with his full knowledge and participation) his pack has already has tormented, kidnapped, roughed up, and thrown her into a pit in the ground with the intent of killing her. He finally offers his weak protest when his alpha explains in detail how he will kill her, tosses away the tape that proves her innocence without listening to it, then starts to strip down in preparation of jumping into the pit to tear her apart in his wolf form. The boyfriend physically does nothing, however, to stop his alpha’s actions because he thinks it wrong to directly go against one’s alpha, even when that alpha plans to kill an innocent girl.
Even the protagonist’s supposed best friend, another werewolf, isn’t all that likable, though she’s a little better than the others in the pack. She at least has the decency to listen to the whole tape then stop her friend’s murder at the last minute, forcing the alpha to listen to it then fighting off the packmate who really committed the transgressions for which the protagonist was accused. Before listening to the tape, however, she was totally willing to both literally and metaphorically throw her bff to the wolves, losing all faith in her and ignoring everything she knew about her friend’s loyalty when the protagonist confesses to secretly reading one paragraph of her sacred diary. This lack of faith was particularly repugnant in light of the fact that the whole reason the protagonist got implicated for these “crimes” in the first place was that a jealous packmate was trying to take down the werewolf friend. The protagonist just got caught in the packmate’s web instead of her intended target when she tried to protect this friend from the suspicions of her pack.
Even before the wolfy best friend got mad at the protagonist and temporarily hung her out to dry, however, she wasn’t exactly the best friend. She was characteristically bossy and chronically irritable, never apologizing when she was mean to the protagonist and often pushing her into doing things that she both was uncomfortable with, and that ended badly for her. The protagonist, on the other hand, bent over backwards to make her werewolf friend feel comfortable and safe, accepting her as she was without question. She would even apologize profusely for things that weren’t her fault and desperately tried to mend fences whenever werewolf girl was upset, just to preserve this lopsided friendship.
Overall, I think the only really decent characters in this book were the main character’s semi-clueless but well-intentioned parents, and they didn’t get much of a role in the story at all. So basically, this whole book was a wash, both as a potential friendship centered book, and as a YA paranormal romance. It had no redeeming qualities and it glorifies unhealthy and abusive relationships. I do not recommend it at all!
These other characters, who for the most part were NOT portrayed in this book as villains mind you, took advantage of the lead’s doormat personality and walked all over her. The werewolf pack, who was supposedly friendly toward her, took every opportunity to remind her that she was not one of them, that she would never be one of them, and that her happiness, well-being, and even her continued existence were all secondary to the pack’s well-being. They systematically isolated her from others in her life to minimize their chance of exposure, and she timidly goes along with this. They kidnap, terrorize and attempt to kill her when they wrongly suspect that she is threatening them with exposure, though she has always been loyal to them and they have no hard proof of her so-called crimes. Despite all that she has done and sacrificed to shield them and prove herself to them, their alpha is not even willing to pause his planned murder of her long to listen to the tape she provides to exonerate herself, because he’s frustrated with how long it takes her to find the right spot to listen to on the tape. When the issue is forced before he can end the protagonist and the true guilty party is exposed as one of his packmates, suddenly the “crimes” he was willing to kill her for are viewed as far less severe and death is no longer an option as punishment. Despite this injustice, the protagonist instantly forgives all her would-be killers, though they only offer her some half-hearted apologies couched in justification of their actions, and do nothing to redeem themselves after the fact. She even goes so far as to apologize to the alpha who just tried to kill her for the “misunderstanding.” Really? Who does that?
The beta wolf whom the author sets up as the lead character’s sort-of-boyfriend allows this repeated mistreatment of her, alternating between excusing the behavior, sometimes even participating in it, and other times just passively allowing it to happen even when he recognizes it as wrong. He makes it clear through his actions that his first loyalty is to his pack, despite all his protestations of being enamored with and devoted to the leading lady. He makes some anemic protests about her innocence toward the end, after (with his full knowledge and participation) his pack has already has tormented, kidnapped, roughed up, and thrown her into a pit in the ground with the intent of killing her. He finally offers his weak protest when his alpha explains in detail how he will kill her, tosses away the tape that proves her innocence without listening to it, then starts to strip down in preparation of jumping into the pit to tear her apart in his wolf form. The boyfriend physically does nothing, however, to stop his alpha’s actions because he thinks it wrong to directly go against one’s alpha, even when that alpha plans to kill an innocent girl.
Even the protagonist’s supposed best friend, another werewolf, isn’t all that likable, though she’s a little better than the others in the pack. She at least has the decency to listen to the whole tape then stop her friend’s murder at the last minute, forcing the alpha to listen to it then fighting off the packmate who really committed the transgressions for which the protagonist was accused. Before listening to the tape, however, she was totally willing to both literally and metaphorically throw her bff to the wolves, losing all faith in her and ignoring everything she knew about her friend’s loyalty when the protagonist confesses to secretly reading one paragraph of her sacred diary. This lack of faith was particularly repugnant in light of the fact that the whole reason the protagonist got implicated for these “crimes” in the first place was that a jealous packmate was trying to take down the werewolf friend. The protagonist just got caught in the packmate’s web instead of her intended target when she tried to protect this friend from the suspicions of her pack.
Even before the wolfy best friend got mad at the protagonist and temporarily hung her out to dry, however, she wasn’t exactly the best friend. She was characteristically bossy and chronically irritable, never apologizing when she was mean to the protagonist and often pushing her into doing things that she both was uncomfortable with, and that ended badly for her. The protagonist, on the other hand, bent over backwards to make her werewolf friend feel comfortable and safe, accepting her as she was without question. She would even apologize profusely for things that weren’t her fault and desperately tried to mend fences whenever werewolf girl was upset, just to preserve this lopsided friendship.
Overall, I think the only really decent characters in this book were the main character’s semi-clueless but well-intentioned parents, and they didn’t get much of a role in the story at all. So basically, this whole book was a wash, both as a potential friendship centered book, and as a YA paranormal romance. It had no redeeming qualities and it glorifies unhealthy and abusive relationships. I do not recommend it at all!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2012
Ok...sooo... I really like this book. Really liked.
The fact that we can see the perspective of the paranormal situation through eyes of a best friend is really good. It's a new approach in YA paranormal books and I like it.
BUT.
Why has to every "deep kiss" in YA books end with "sex talk". Why, oh why? Ok, so...we are together. We have this sweet first kiss. Then next time we kiss is all hot and "deep" as they use to describe it. And then the guy says "you know, I won't force you, I will wait for how long you want, but I am a man, you see, that's why is good to tease me, but I will wait, I swear". Da hell?
Do nowadays teenagers really talk like that? I don't think so... Ok, they have sex on their minds, but I still think that kind of talk is kind of surreal.
I think that's the main reason for 4 stars, because I was really trying hard not to roll my eyes.
The fact that we can see the perspective of the paranormal situation through eyes of a best friend is really good. It's a new approach in YA paranormal books and I like it.
BUT.
Why has to every "deep kiss" in YA books end with "sex talk". Why, oh why? Ok, so...we are together. We have this sweet first kiss. Then next time we kiss is all hot and "deep" as they use to describe it. And then the guy says "you know, I won't force you, I will wait for how long you want, but I am a man, you see, that's why is good to tease me, but I will wait, I swear". Da hell?
Do nowadays teenagers really talk like that? I don't think so... Ok, they have sex on their minds, but I still think that kind of talk is kind of surreal.
I think that's the main reason for 4 stars, because I was really trying hard not to roll my eyes.
October 22, 2012
The Good: The book was very well written. The author wrote a creative read while adding strong morals into the book. Sophie got good grades and never did anything wrong. Summer was a bully that Sophie puts a stop to. Juliet was a foster kid with a desire for a better life. Ezra was Sophie's high school crush and proves that good things come to those who wait.
The Bad: There wasn't any romance until the very end. There wasn't even a lot of build up. It made me kind of sad.
The Sexy: Nothing really sexy about this read. It was a ya paranormal book.
Overall: This was a great YA book that was suitable for all ages. There was some bullying and violent references, but no blood and gore. It was an overall safe read. I have to give this one four glittery stars for being a pretty decent read.
The Bad: There wasn't any romance until the very end. There wasn't even a lot of build up. It made me kind of sad.
The Sexy: Nothing really sexy about this read. It was a ya paranormal book.
Overall: This was a great YA book that was suitable for all ages. There was some bullying and violent references, but no blood and gore. It was an overall safe read. I have to give this one four glittery stars for being a pretty decent read.
April 25, 2013
Phase is an easy read (not to be mistaken for an easy story). The author writes natural and convincing dialogue, builds suspense throughout the novel, and treats areas of morality with a lot of tact.
Sophie is a lovely protagonist. She's also a glutton for punishment, which is endearing in light-hearted moments and maddening (in a good way) when she's hard done by. You feel for her, and cheer for her, from the very beginning.
The friendship between Sophie and Jules, alongside the paranormal element of shifters, becomes the central theme of Phase. Sure, there are cute boys, and sure, Sophie is head over heels for Ezra (and sure, it's a delight to read all that), but it's not the be-all and end-all of the novel. It's a refreshing take on the YA genre, with a lot of heart and integrity to boot.
Overall, a very fun read. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Sophie is a lovely protagonist. She's also a glutton for punishment, which is endearing in light-hearted moments and maddening (in a good way) when she's hard done by. You feel for her, and cheer for her, from the very beginning.
The friendship between Sophie and Jules, alongside the paranormal element of shifters, becomes the central theme of Phase. Sure, there are cute boys, and sure, Sophie is head over heels for Ezra (and sure, it's a delight to read all that), but it's not the be-all and end-all of the novel. It's a refreshing take on the YA genre, with a lot of heart and integrity to boot.
Overall, a very fun read. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
February 12, 2014
I'm usually a little skeptical of the supernatural genre, especially after my unfortunate experience with one series that involved a very sparkly vampire and a love-sick girl, but Phase is very well done. I especially enjoyed the focus of the novel, not on romance so much as the strength and importance of friendship (although I adored every second of Ezra and Sophie). All the characters are beautifully and realistically crafted, each one unique and distinctive. I loved Sophie and her adorable self-consciousness as she learns to trust her new friend, Julie, who has a past I am very excited to learn about (soon, I hope?). Basically, I loved it, and recommend it highly. It is fun and realistic, filled with truth about what it's like to be in high school and the necessity to have a relationship between friends who remain loyal to each other no matter what happens.
April 21, 2013
Phase is a great story of friendship and trust. Sophie is a senior who hasn't ever had a best friend. I'm not sure why because she makes for great friend material. I'd be Sophie's friend, and maybe that's why I liked her so much. Enter the social outcast and new girl in town, Juliet. Juliet is tough, different, and a foster kid. Sophie befriends Juliet. In doing so, this puts her in direct contact with Juliet's foster family member, the crushworthy Ezra.
I enjoyed this story of friendship that also contains paranormal elements. Phase will make you smile as you think about your first crush, first kiss, and first best friend.
I enjoyed this story of friendship that also contains paranormal elements. Phase will make you smile as you think about your first crush, first kiss, and first best friend.
July 11, 2012
I was beginning to despair of finding a YA novel I could read without cringing every few seconds - whether at the bad grammar/spelling or hideously awful plot.
'Phase' was a breath of fresh air.
The protagonist was extremely likeable, the minor characters significant, and the plot a whole lot more complex than one would expect at first glance.
Thank you, E.C. You had me, hook, line, and sinker, from the first page to the last. Looking forward to the next installment!
'Phase' was a breath of fresh air.
The protagonist was extremely likeable, the minor characters significant, and the plot a whole lot more complex than one would expect at first glance.
Thank you, E.C. You had me, hook, line, and sinker, from the first page to the last. Looking forward to the next installment!
June 12, 2015
Having read YA and urban fantasy novels in the past, it was not much of a stretch to read this novel. And I was definitely glad that I did. The author has created an interesting high school portrait of young love, conflict, and shape shifting teens effectively using narrative and conversation that rings true. My only complaint about this novel is that there is more to this story and I can't read it yet. Get busy, EC!
August 10, 2016
Fantastic read
I've been a fan since fanfiction.net. Her writing is absolutely incredible, the way she describes things with her writing makes it possible to imagine everything in your head and it is beautiful. I look forward to so much more from EC Newman hands-down one of the best writers ever. Her characters are easy to love and easy to hate, you can picture yourself easily in the high school setting as if it was your own. Get your copy now, you won't regret it.
I've been a fan since fanfiction.net. Her writing is absolutely incredible, the way she describes things with her writing makes it possible to imagine everything in your head and it is beautiful. I look forward to so much more from EC Newman hands-down one of the best writers ever. Her characters are easy to love and easy to hate, you can picture yourself easily in the high school setting as if it was your own. Get your copy now, you won't regret it.
August 27, 2012
OMG THIS BOOK IS SOOOOOOOO AMAZING !!!! my twin sister and i just finished reading it and we TOTALLY LUUURVE IT!! Sophie is the best female character and i would totally love to have a friend like jules(she actually reminds me of my sister) and ezra.... oh ezra *sighh* its a beautiful book and i CANT WAIT FOR THE SEQUEL.
March 23, 2015
I like how this whole book is about friendship. There is some romance which is to be expected. This book focus on how Sophie will always try to be there for her best friend even before a guy liking her. Sophie friendship with Jules is the one thing that will anchor her in the craziness that seems to surround Jules. Showing what true friends will do for one another.
September 9, 2012
I loved the story, and the characters. I literally could not put the book down. I read it in one sitting! I fell in love with the story, the people, everything! I highly recommend this book, and quite frequently, to everyone I know. :)
July 11, 2012
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July 22, 2012
Omg. Very very good YA. I loved the story and want more!
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