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Unraveling #1.5
Undone
Before the accident. Before their universes collided. Before they fell in love.
Riveting and romantic, Undone: An Unraveling Novella contains three short stories set in the world of Unraveling, the first book in the gripping sci-fi duology by Elizabeth Norris.
Before Ben Michaels saved Janelle Tenner’s life, Janelle saved Ben when he stumbled through an interuniverse portal into a completely new world. That day, he fell in love with the girl of his dreams. And he never forgot her.
Through three stories told from Ben’s point of view, learn how Ben and his friends discovered their ability to travel between worlds, how Ben first met Janelle, and how he pined for her for years before he actually got the chance to meet her, save her life, and capture her heart. And find out what happens to Ben between the cliff-hanger conclusion to Unraveling and the beginning of its heart-stopping sequel, Unbreakable.
Riveting and romantic, Undone: An Unraveling Novella contains three short stories set in the world of Unraveling, the first book in the gripping sci-fi duology by Elizabeth Norris.
Before Ben Michaels saved Janelle Tenner’s life, Janelle saved Ben when he stumbled through an interuniverse portal into a completely new world. That day, he fell in love with the girl of his dreams. And he never forgot her.
Through three stories told from Ben’s point of view, learn how Ben and his friends discovered their ability to travel between worlds, how Ben first met Janelle, and how he pined for her for years before he actually got the chance to meet her, save her life, and capture her heart. And find out what happens to Ben between the cliff-hanger conclusion to Unraveling and the beginning of its heart-stopping sequel, Unbreakable.
120 pages, ebook
First published March 5, 2013
About the author
Elizabeth Norris
8 books1,178 followersElizabeth Norris briefly taught high school English and history before trading the southern California beaches and sunshine for Manhattan's recent snowpocalyptic winter.
She harbors dangerous addictions to guacamole, red velvet cupcakes, sushi, and Argo Tea, fortunately not all together.
Her first novel, UNRAVELING (Balzer+Bray, April 2012), is the story of one girl’s fight to save her family, her world, and the one boy she never saw coming.
She harbors dangerous addictions to guacamole, red velvet cupcakes, sushi, and Argo Tea, fortunately not all together.
Her first novel, UNRAVELING (Balzer+Bray, April 2012), is the story of one girl’s fight to save her family, her world, and the one boy she never saw coming.
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January 8, 2013UNDONE just went to copy edits so I've now read and reread and edited. It's is the (super close to) final version. I was a little apprehensive to write anything from a guy's POV, but it was much easier than I expected it to be. I'm excited to share Ben's story with everyone.
February 21, 2013
"A lot of things have changed." From the way she said it, I knew the changes hadn't been good.
Uh, I'm glad someone said it. Because I felt like I'd been thrown into the future without warning.
What happened to a sweet little alternate PoV novella with a bunch of lovely Ben moments as he waxed poetic about Janelle? I was expecting more of this...
I touched the spot on the desk where her hair had been. Don't judge me.
Or perhaps some of this...
She was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen.
To take a line from Ben : Don't judge me! I know that the series is supposed to be an action-packed sci-fi about crazy people who are doing suspicious things, but I was misinformed that this particular installment would be a short story featuring a few scenes from Unraveling as retold from Ben's perspective. And since Ben was more focused on Janelle than Janelle was on Ben (he was following her around for years, after all), I thought this would be a sweet little swoon break before we got back to the action in book 2.
BUT NO, I WAS TRICKED. TRICKED, I TELL YOU.
What happened, you ask? After the brief book 1 recap scenes, we were immediately thrown into what had transpired after the end of book 1. NO JOKE.
Hint : you might not want to skip reading Undone before book 2 comes out.
Btw, this ended just as crazy as book 1 did. I wouldn't quite call it cliffhanger hell, but my mind is reeling a little bit.
I'm still a fan - of both Ben and the series. After the recent disappointments I've had with the past few sci-fi books I've read, at least this is still a winner for me.
March 19, 2013
My poor, POOR Ben.
The first part of Undone focuses on Ben’s life before Janelle. We see where he came from and how, and it all helps explain his unflinching loyalty to his two best friends, Eli and Reid. Ben spent so many years admiring Janelle from afar, but even though he admitted as much in Unraveling, I never quite understood the importance of it until now. It was charming and a bit heartbreaking to learn how many times he wanted to approach her, talk to her, but could never quite gather the courage to do it.
In the second part, which is also the shortest, we see some of the most important events from Unraveling through Ben’s eyes. His decision to save Janelle’s life carries far more weight now that I know all about the risks it brought with it. For Ben, Janelle shines like a comet, she’s as untouchable and perfect as a goddess.
Third part is the longest and it shows Ben’s life after Unraveling. Going back to his old life wasn’t nearly as easy as he’d hoped – by the time he and Eli made it back, there wasn’t much left to find. Neither Ben nor Eli really belong there anymore, but just as they start to talk about leaving once more, something happens to change their plans.
I’m not quite sure whether I should recommend reading Undone before or after Unbreakable (honestly, I’m leaning toward after), but I definitely recommend reading it. It will give you a very clear idea of Ben’s life before and after Janelle, but even more importantly, seeing Janelle through Ben’s loving eyes will make the intensity of his emotions somewhat easier to understand.
The first part of Undone focuses on Ben’s life before Janelle. We see where he came from and how, and it all helps explain his unflinching loyalty to his two best friends, Eli and Reid. Ben spent so many years admiring Janelle from afar, but even though he admitted as much in Unraveling, I never quite understood the importance of it until now. It was charming and a bit heartbreaking to learn how many times he wanted to approach her, talk to her, but could never quite gather the courage to do it.
In the second part, which is also the shortest, we see some of the most important events from Unraveling through Ben’s eyes. His decision to save Janelle’s life carries far more weight now that I know all about the risks it brought with it. For Ben, Janelle shines like a comet, she’s as untouchable and perfect as a goddess.
Third part is the longest and it shows Ben’s life after Unraveling. Going back to his old life wasn’t nearly as easy as he’d hoped – by the time he and Eli made it back, there wasn’t much left to find. Neither Ben nor Eli really belong there anymore, but just as they start to talk about leaving once more, something happens to change their plans.
I’m not quite sure whether I should recommend reading Undone before or after Unbreakable (honestly, I’m leaning toward after), but I definitely recommend reading it. It will give you a very clear idea of Ben’s life before and after Janelle, but even more importantly, seeing Janelle through Ben’s loving eyes will make the intensity of his emotions somewhat easier to understand.
October 19, 2012
Loved it! Gimme mooooore!!!
It was so cute to see Ben crushing on our sweet girl when she didn't even notice him for an instant. And.. now I understand why did his friends hate her so much when they finally/officially met. ;))
Also, I always thought that life "home" was going to be different than what Ben hoped, but hey, I still wished for the best and I feel deeply for him now.
There is only one 'problem': the ending! In fact both of them... I'm confused and I can't wait to get my hands on the book and see what's all that about and how all that mess is going to turn back right.
Oh my my my... My expectations are sky high and I am counting the days here...
Dear time,
Please pass already!
Love,
A.
It was so cute to see Ben crushing on our sweet girl when she didn't even notice him for an instant. And.. now I understand why did his friends hate her so much when they finally/officially met. ;))
Also, I always thought that life "home" was going to be different than what Ben hoped, but hey, I still wished for the best and I feel deeply for him now.
There is only one 'problem': the ending! In fact both of them... I'm confused and I can't wait to get my hands on the book and see what's all that about and how all that mess is going to turn back right.
Oh my my my... My expectations are sky high and I am counting the days here...
Dear time,
Please pass already!
Love,
A.
July 26, 2024
This short story is told by Ben Michaels and has three parts. Spoilers for Unraveling are to be found in this review so if you haven't read it first please proceed with caution.
1st part: Before she knew me.
It takes place when the three friends, Ben, Reid and Elija are in their sophomore year in high school, about 5 years after they arrived on earth, and Ben starts stalking Janelle in order to protect her. They accidentally discover their special abillities and that they can open portals by their own setting in motion the chain of events that lead to the 1st book.
2nd part: When I saved her.
It tells the events from Ben's POV when the unknown vehicle hit Janelle and killed her.
3rd part: After I left her.
In this short story we get to know what happens in Ben's home universe when they return after 10 years of absence.
We only get a glimpse of world building of this new universe and the author's focus was mostly on the mental and sentimental impact on Ben and Eli of their reintegration into their former lives and the losses they endured. It also sets the foundation for Unbreakable's plot thread and it made me really curious to find out what happens next and if Ben and Janelle will come out of this adventure unscathed and together.
1st part: Before she knew me.
It takes place when the three friends, Ben, Reid and Elija are in their sophomore year in high school, about 5 years after they arrived on earth, and Ben starts stalking Janelle in order to protect her. They accidentally discover their special abillities and that they can open portals by their own setting in motion the chain of events that lead to the 1st book.
2nd part: When I saved her.
It tells the events from Ben's POV when the unknown vehicle hit Janelle and killed her.
3rd part: After I left her.
In this short story we get to know what happens in Ben's home universe when they return after 10 years of absence.
We only get a glimpse of world building of this new universe and the author's focus was mostly on the mental and sentimental impact on Ben and Eli of their reintegration into their former lives and the losses they endured. It also sets the foundation for Unbreakable's plot thread and it made me really curious to find out what happens next and if Ben and Janelle will come out of this adventure unscathed and together.
October 16, 2012
EDITS:
5 fucking stars!
Ben Micheals, I LOVE YOU BABY.
..................................
From Liz's website! She also personally told me on twitter about the novella! :')
"Three stories from Ben's perspective, one that takes place a year before Unraveling, one that takes place during Unraveling, and one that takes place between Unraveling and Unbreakable."
OH MY FUCK. :'D
IT'S FROM BEN'S PERSPECTIVE! <3 *spazzes* *dies*
5 fucking stars!
Ben Micheals, I LOVE YOU BABY.
..................................
From Liz's website! She also personally told me on twitter about the novella! :')
"Three stories from Ben's perspective, one that takes place a year before Unraveling, one that takes place during Unraveling, and one that takes place between Unraveling and Unbreakable."
OH MY FUCK. :'D
IT'S FROM BEN'S PERSPECTIVE! <3 *spazzes* *dies*
March 14, 2013
:O
=(
:O
It’s strange how this little book elicited even more emotions from than its predecessor!!
Ok, so maybe I’m too naïve.. but I was hoping that Ben gets back to the world he left exactly like it was.. I even imagined he’ll go back to find only a couple of minutes gone by.. and that would be the worst of it!
But OMG! What a dramatic change! And I really should’ve thought about it! Should’ve at least predicted the relatively “normal” and expected changes!
It’s so sad.. but I can understand it.. It’s like when you think of a certain event in your life should happen and when it does everything will turn out perfect. Only to find when it does happen it’s nothing like you imagined it to be and you desperately want everything to go back the way they were.
And the horrible turn of events! Oh, No! Would these kids ever have a break?!! =(
This booklet left me saddened, horrified but worst of all, I can’t even formulate how this gonna play out next. I’m so afraid the death toll will climb even higher!
Thank God I only need to hang on for another more couple of months.
=(
:O
It’s strange how this little book elicited even more emotions from than its predecessor!!
Ok, so maybe I’m too naïve.. but I was hoping that Ben gets back to the world he left exactly like it was.. I even imagined he’ll go back to find only a couple of minutes gone by.. and that would be the worst of it!
But OMG! What a dramatic change! And I really should’ve thought about it! Should’ve at least predicted the relatively “normal” and expected changes!
It’s so sad.. but I can understand it.. It’s like when you think of a certain event in your life should happen and when it does everything will turn out perfect. Only to find when it does happen it’s nothing like you imagined it to be and you desperately want everything to go back the way they were.
And the horrible turn of events! Oh, No! Would these kids ever have a break?!! =(
This booklet left me saddened, horrified but worst of all, I can’t even formulate how this gonna play out next. I’m so afraid the death toll will climb even higher!
Thank God I only need to hang on for another more couple of months.
October 18, 2012
I thought it was really clever how it was broken down from before Unraveling, during Unraveling and after Unraveling. Loved all of the extra info we got from Ben's POV.
I adore that Janelle is in his thoughts almost constantly.
Oh, and it was beyond awesome having my name in the novella.
I adore that Janelle is in his thoughts almost constantly.
Oh, and it was beyond awesome having my name in the novella.
January 9, 2013
Rating: 3.75/5
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
February 12, 2013
Awesome.......I need Unbreakable now!
January 9, 2013
I LOVE BEN!!
I mean really, what else is there to say after reading this?
Honestly though, I'll try to write you a review!
The setup for this novella is wonderful - it's all in Ben's point of view and you get "Before She Knew Me", "When I Saved Her", and "After I Left Her".
Each section really gives you some insight on Ben's thoughts and what is happening in his life at the time.
From the very beginning when hestalked watched and admired Janelle to the very second where Unbreakable picks up and the story resumes in Janelle's point of view, you get to see it all.
There are a ton of things I want to quote from this novella, but I'm not going to. I'm not sharing one bit of this part of the story - you'll just have to go start the series for yourself. I promise you won't be disappointed and I also promise that you'll love Ben's sweet perspective and insight on his thoughts about Janelle, the issues with the portals and finding out what really happened after the end of Unraveling.
I can't tell you enough, how much I'm going to miss Ben & Janelle! I have to thank the lovely Stacee for pushing me to read this series (and also for supplying me with the ARC for the final book that comes out in April!
If you haven't started this series get going! I promise you'll love it!
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
I mean really, what else is there to say after reading this?
Honestly though, I'll try to write you a review!
The setup for this novella is wonderful - it's all in Ben's point of view and you get "Before She Knew Me", "When I Saved Her", and "After I Left Her".
Each section really gives you some insight on Ben's thoughts and what is happening in his life at the time.
From the very beginning when he
There are a ton of things I want to quote from this novella, but I'm not going to. I'm not sharing one bit of this part of the story - you'll just have to go start the series for yourself. I promise you won't be disappointed and I also promise that you'll love Ben's sweet perspective and insight on his thoughts about Janelle, the issues with the portals and finding out what really happened after the end of Unraveling.
I can't tell you enough, how much I'm going to miss Ben & Janelle! I have to thank the lovely Stacee for pushing me to read this series (and also for supplying me with the ARC for the final book that comes out in April!
If you haven't started this series get going! I promise you'll love it!
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
January 10, 2013
THAT'S where Ms. Norris decide's to leave Ben's story? I can't even think right now.
Gah, okay. So the first two of the short stories were great. I loved seeing things from Ben's perspective. It just underlined everything we knew about him already, and even though I didn't think it possible, gave him infinitely more depth.
Moving on to the third short story that bridges the gap between Unraveling and Unbreakable.. for the most part it was interesting to learn how his family were and how everything had changed. Tiny bit disappointed that we didn't get to meet Ian, but I can deal. The last few chapters however, things definitely heated up, and not in the good way. (Though I'm partial to the bad way so it's all good in my book). It was an unexpected ending, and now i'm damn near dying to find out what happens next. What more can I say? I thought I adored Ben before, I had no idea I'd come out of reading this obsessed with him.
There's a sneak peak at the first two chapters of Unbreakable at the end, which have just left me blinking rapidly at my kindle. For those who have read it, you'll know why. I'm sure when I can think properly again my brain's going to run wild with theories about how that's possible.
This novella has pretty much short circuited my brain with it's awesomeness.
I. NEED. UNBREAKABLE. IN. MY. LIFE.
Gah, okay. So the first two of the short stories were great. I loved seeing things from Ben's perspective. It just underlined everything we knew about him already, and even though I didn't think it possible, gave him infinitely more depth.
Moving on to the third short story that bridges the gap between Unraveling and Unbreakable.. for the most part it was interesting to learn how his family were and how everything had changed. Tiny bit disappointed that we didn't get to meet Ian, but I can deal. The last few chapters however, things definitely heated up, and not in the good way. (Though I'm partial to the bad way so it's all good in my book). It was an unexpected ending, and now i'm damn near dying to find out what happens next. What more can I say? I thought I adored Ben before, I had no idea I'd come out of reading this obsessed with him.
There's a sneak peak at the first two chapters of Unbreakable at the end, which have just left me blinking rapidly at my kindle. For those who have read it, you'll know why. I'm sure when I can think properly again my brain's going to run wild with theories about how that's possible.
This novella has pretty much short circuited my brain with it's awesomeness.
I. NEED. UNBREAKABLE. IN. MY. LIFE.
July 4, 2015
I liked this short story. It's broken into three parts.
First, the time before Ben meets J. Second, the moment the accident happens and third the time afterward.
I read these three stories after I'd finished the second book so I knew the explanation of the third story. My favorite of the three definitely is the second one because I'd always like to have known how Ben's POV would've been like. I think it's interesting to see how he falls in love with her and how he feels about things. I like it because it's different but just as real as J's POV is, which is what I love most about the writing.
Like the unpublished deleted scenes from the second book/alternative ending, this novella (?) gave me some sense of closure. I could kind of close it and say, oh I get that better now. The first part was a little heart wrenching specifically since he's so young when it's happening.
3.5 - 4 stars. I found it interesting, I probably won't reread it but it was important to the series.
First, the time before Ben meets J. Second, the moment the accident happens and third the time afterward.
I read these three stories after I'd finished the second book so I knew the explanation of the third story. My favorite of the three definitely is the second one because I'd always like to have known how Ben's POV would've been like. I think it's interesting to see how he falls in love with her and how he feels about things. I like it because it's different but just as real as J's POV is, which is what I love most about the writing.
Like the unpublished deleted scenes from the second book/alternative ending, this novella (?) gave me some sense of closure. I could kind of close it and say, oh I get that better now. The first part was a little heart wrenching specifically since he's so young when it's happening.
3.5 - 4 stars. I found it interesting, I probably won't reread it but it was important to the series.
Want to Read
November 18, 2012Bennnnnn. <3<3<3
that is all.
that is all.
June 29, 2022
Nice little companion novel. Get to see a lot from Ben's eyes but still doesn't overlap much with the previous book, which is nice. We get to see what happens to Ben and Elijah after they return home and I guess it's leading into the next book, but I haven't read the next one yet, so I'm not sure. Worth the read, but the price on amazon was a little high for such a short book.
July 26, 2019
So, in the first book he doesn't even remember the name of the boy who got 'left behind'. He's one of his best friends in this one... Let's add even more plot holes. :-)
March 27, 2026
I mostly read this for the last story (the others were mostly repeats from Ben's pov). Something tells me that ending wasn't what it seemed...
May 9, 2013
Elizabeth Jose
Norris, E. (2013). Undone: an Unraveling novella. New York: Balzer + Bray.
Genre: Science Fiction
Format: Ebook
Selection Process: Publishers Weekly
“Undone” is a novella in Norris’ sci-fi series that fills the gap in the duology of “Unraveling”, the first book depicting an alter-universe, and “Unbroken”, the final book. It tells the story of Ben Michaels and his inter-universe portal travels between worlds with his friends Reid and Eli. The book is written from Ben’s perspective, and tells of his love for Janelle Tanner, who saved his life years ago when he and his friends accidentally discovered a travel portal and fell through it into the Pacific Ocean, nearly drowning to death.
Ben, Reid, and Eli have been stuck in this other world for six years, and have been trying to get back to their home by conducting various “experiments”. As a side effect of initially traveling through the portal, they obtain powers that allow them to manipulate molecular structures, heal the human body, and even create new portals into other worlds over time. However, this does not come without consequences, as it leaves a damaging ripple effect around them: earthquakes, fires, tsunamis, and even death. In essence, it leaves the world unstable, unable to function normally.
Eventually, despite the loss of one member of their circle in a shocking betrayal, they return to their original world suddenly, leaving Ben’s love behind. Unfortunately, home has changed as a result of their explorations as well. Soon, Eli and Ben decide to return back to the world they were once stuck in, but before doing so, the “Interuniverse Army” (IA), a police force that monitors such activity to avoid instability of all the worlds, catches on to their portal producing activity, and begins to hunt them down in their own homes. The story ends with a cliffhanger of Ben and Eli being captured by the IA and then tortured into working for them as hostake-takers between worlds. Despite not wanting to, Ben gives in when he sees that they have captured his one love, Janelle.
“Undone” fills the gap between the first and last stories in the duology, and does so in an interesting manner (i.e., love from a male perspective). However, as someone who did not read the first book “Unraveling”, it was difficult to follow the frequent flashbacks that served to summarize past events. The IA was introduced rather suddenly after it was revealed that Reid had been secretly experimenting with portals without Ben & Eli’s knowledge. Most details of Ben and Janelle’s romance were omitted. While the book is a novella, a better written background could have allowed for a smoother transition between books for readers who are entering the series halfway through. Nonetheless, the Stargate-reminiscent story keeps the reader on edge for the next installment in the series, “Unbroken”.
Recommended.
Norris, E. (2013). Undone: an Unraveling novella. New York: Balzer + Bray.
Genre: Science Fiction
Format: Ebook
Selection Process: Publishers Weekly
“Undone” is a novella in Norris’ sci-fi series that fills the gap in the duology of “Unraveling”, the first book depicting an alter-universe, and “Unbroken”, the final book. It tells the story of Ben Michaels and his inter-universe portal travels between worlds with his friends Reid and Eli. The book is written from Ben’s perspective, and tells of his love for Janelle Tanner, who saved his life years ago when he and his friends accidentally discovered a travel portal and fell through it into the Pacific Ocean, nearly drowning to death.
Ben, Reid, and Eli have been stuck in this other world for six years, and have been trying to get back to their home by conducting various “experiments”. As a side effect of initially traveling through the portal, they obtain powers that allow them to manipulate molecular structures, heal the human body, and even create new portals into other worlds over time. However, this does not come without consequences, as it leaves a damaging ripple effect around them: earthquakes, fires, tsunamis, and even death. In essence, it leaves the world unstable, unable to function normally.
Eventually, despite the loss of one member of their circle in a shocking betrayal, they return to their original world suddenly, leaving Ben’s love behind. Unfortunately, home has changed as a result of their explorations as well. Soon, Eli and Ben decide to return back to the world they were once stuck in, but before doing so, the “Interuniverse Army” (IA), a police force that monitors such activity to avoid instability of all the worlds, catches on to their portal producing activity, and begins to hunt them down in their own homes. The story ends with a cliffhanger of Ben and Eli being captured by the IA and then tortured into working for them as hostake-takers between worlds. Despite not wanting to, Ben gives in when he sees that they have captured his one love, Janelle.
“Undone” fills the gap between the first and last stories in the duology, and does so in an interesting manner (i.e., love from a male perspective). However, as someone who did not read the first book “Unraveling”, it was difficult to follow the frequent flashbacks that served to summarize past events. The IA was introduced rather suddenly after it was revealed that Reid had been secretly experimenting with portals without Ben & Eli’s knowledge. Most details of Ben and Janelle’s romance were omitted. While the book is a novella, a better written background could have allowed for a smoother transition between books for readers who are entering the series halfway through. Nonetheless, the Stargate-reminiscent story keeps the reader on edge for the next installment in the series, “Unbroken”.
Recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2013
I loved
Unraveling
when I listened to the audiobook a couple of weeks ago. It was intense and fast-paced and everything I'm looking for in a good sci-fi novel: a take-charge heroine, a compelling storyline, and a secondary cast of characters that deserve a storylilne of their own. And with Elizabeth Norris' Undone, we get just that.
Ben was an awesome love interest for the seemingly fearless Janelle in the first book in this series. And that's no less true with this novella. But I knew there was more to Ben than just the borderline-stalker-turned-boyfriend we saw in Unraveling. This novella is broken into three sections: Before She Knew Me, When I Saved Her, and After I Left Her. With each segment, we learn a little bit more about Ben as we see the events in Unraveling from his perspective. And then there's what happens after Unraveling. I've not yet read Unbreakable, but I have an idea what to expect thanks to this novella. I don't think it will spoil the story for you, but it will ramp up your anticipation for Unbreakable, which releases in another month. (Psst. There's also a sneak peek of the sequel at the end of Undone!)
Undone was exactly what I was hoping for: a little more of the world from Unraveling from a fresh point-of-view. Admittedly, I like Janelle's voice better, as far as the story-telling goes because she is far more sarcastic and witty, but Ben's narrative was a welcome alternative. I'm kind of hoping we'll get a dual narrative from these two in the sequel. Only one more month till we find out! And now that I know what's coming, it's going to be an even more agonizing wait.
This review can also be found at The Starry-Eyed Revue.
Ben was an awesome love interest for the seemingly fearless Janelle in the first book in this series. And that's no less true with this novella. But I knew there was more to Ben than just the borderline-stalker-turned-boyfriend we saw in Unraveling. This novella is broken into three sections: Before She Knew Me, When I Saved Her, and After I Left Her. With each segment, we learn a little bit more about Ben as we see the events in Unraveling from his perspective. And then there's what happens after Unraveling. I've not yet read Unbreakable, but I have an idea what to expect thanks to this novella. I don't think it will spoil the story for you, but it will ramp up your anticipation for Unbreakable, which releases in another month. (Psst. There's also a sneak peek of the sequel at the end of Undone!)
Undone was exactly what I was hoping for: a little more of the world from Unraveling from a fresh point-of-view. Admittedly, I like Janelle's voice better, as far as the story-telling goes because she is far more sarcastic and witty, but Ben's narrative was a welcome alternative. I'm kind of hoping we'll get a dual narrative from these two in the sequel. Only one more month till we find out! And now that I know what's coming, it's going to be an even more agonizing wait.
This review can also be found at The Starry-Eyed Revue.
August 26, 2014
*Review also on AwesomeBookNuts.blogspot.com*
When I read Unraveling I really liked Ben. I thought I understood him and his friends and I liked him. In reading this novella, though, and getting a lot more backstory... I'm gonna be honest: I thought Ben got super creepy. He basically admits to stalking Janelle and obsessing over her and things she does. It got weird.
I did enjoy learning about what happened to the families of Ben and his two friends. Well, maybe not enjoy, exactly, but I like to know how things turn out and I was satisfied to learn about what happened. For being a completely alternate universe, though, not all that much seemed different. You'd think there'd be some major changes. Or at least something minor that would be interesting to read. There wasn't much.
Ben's voice didn't really do it for me, either. While I loved Janelle's no-crap attitude, Ben almost seemed to accept whatever was given him without any fight. He just seemed like such a wuss. And he dwelled quite a bit on Janelle and on how in love he was and just moped around a lot. I was expecting another badass character but Ben was just so pathetic.
So I appreciate the novella for the backstory and explanations, I do. But I hope that Ben wins me back over in Unbreakable because right now he's creeping me out.
Sexual Content: None
Language: Heavy
Violence: Heavy
Drugs/Alcohol: Moderate
When I read Unraveling I really liked Ben. I thought I understood him and his friends and I liked him. In reading this novella, though, and getting a lot more backstory... I'm gonna be honest: I thought Ben got super creepy. He basically admits to stalking Janelle and obsessing over her and things she does. It got weird.
I did enjoy learning about what happened to the families of Ben and his two friends. Well, maybe not enjoy, exactly, but I like to know how things turn out and I was satisfied to learn about what happened. For being a completely alternate universe, though, not all that much seemed different. You'd think there'd be some major changes. Or at least something minor that would be interesting to read. There wasn't much.
Ben's voice didn't really do it for me, either. While I loved Janelle's no-crap attitude, Ben almost seemed to accept whatever was given him without any fight. He just seemed like such a wuss. And he dwelled quite a bit on Janelle and on how in love he was and just moped around a lot. I was expecting another badass character but Ben was just so pathetic.
So I appreciate the novella for the backstory and explanations, I do. But I hope that Ben wins me back over in Unbreakable because right now he's creeping me out.
Sexual Content: None
Language: Heavy
Violence: Heavy
Drugs/Alcohol: Moderate
February 20, 2013
Oh my shiny stars...told from Ben's …POV and starting before he saved Janelle's life we see just how much he was torn between fixing a wrong he was only partially responsible for and moving on. I have to admit on paper, comparing his actions to other YA male love interests, he sounds like a super-creep.
He admits to this, justifying himself by pointing out he understands he's being creepy. But I think what sets him apart is that he doesn't force his attentions on Janelle. We see various 'crucial' moments in his life (involving her) before he saves her and each time its sort of sweet how he's like "All right I got this, we will talk and she'll find me funny and--there goes my chance. If i talk to her now it would be creepy. Well there's always next time."
We also get to see how his and Eli's homecoming was NOT what they (or anyone could reasonably) expect. My heart broke for them, and their families. I think things were a bit too easy in the case of Reid's family though.
And then there's the after-after which sets up UNBREAKABLE's (dire sounding) plot and THAT is horrific to imagine.
He admits to this, justifying himself by pointing out he understands he's being creepy. But I think what sets him apart is that he doesn't force his attentions on Janelle. We see various 'crucial' moments in his life (involving her) before he saves her and each time its sort of sweet how he's like "All right I got this, we will talk and she'll find me funny and--there goes my chance. If i talk to her now it would be creepy. Well there's always next time."
We also get to see how his and Eli's homecoming was NOT what they (or anyone could reasonably) expect. My heart broke for them, and their families. I think things were a bit too easy in the case of Reid's family though.
And then there's the after-after which sets up UNBREAKABLE's (dire sounding) plot and THAT is horrific to imagine.
March 16, 2013
3.5 stars - Spoilers
This was rather good. I enjoyed Ben's POV, he's not the most exciting of fellas but he's likeable and easy to root for. There's quite a bit actually covered in Undone — how Ben/Reid/Eli were torn away from their universe into a parallel one, Ben's guilt and need to help Reid/Eli go back home, Ben's powers and the consequences of using them, why Ben fell for Janelle, the effect she had on him, Ben's family, Ben's home and Ben/Eli's life once they returned home. It was all good stuff and it definitely added to the series. I've noticed a lot of novellas seem to be rather pointless and rarely offer anything in terms of characters and plot progression. Thankfully, Undone does shine a light on a number of things.
I have to admit, the main reason I really like Ben is because of his devotion to Janelle. I've read way too many YA books with lame heroes that hurt the heroine or just generally act like douches. Ben is sweet, respectful and caring… yet still manages to be swoon-worthy.
I find the whole parallel universe/sci-fi/dystopian vibe really engrossing probably because it's different from the usual YA books I tend to read.
This was rather good. I enjoyed Ben's POV, he's not the most exciting of fellas but he's likeable and easy to root for. There's quite a bit actually covered in Undone — how Ben/Reid/Eli were torn away from their universe into a parallel one, Ben's guilt and need to help Reid/Eli go back home, Ben's powers and the consequences of using them, why Ben fell for Janelle, the effect she had on him, Ben's family, Ben's home and Ben/Eli's life once they returned home. It was all good stuff and it definitely added to the series. I've noticed a lot of novellas seem to be rather pointless and rarely offer anything in terms of characters and plot progression. Thankfully, Undone does shine a light on a number of things.
I have to admit, the main reason I really like Ben is because of his devotion to Janelle. I've read way too many YA books with lame heroes that hurt the heroine or just generally act like douches. Ben is sweet, respectful and caring… yet still manages to be swoon-worthy.
I find the whole parallel universe/sci-fi/dystopian vibe really engrossing probably because it's different from the usual YA books I tend to read.
July 16, 2013
3.5 stars
RECOMMENDED FOR: Fans of Unraveling by Elizabeth Norris
This short story told from Ben's POV fills in some of the details from Unraveling and bridges the gap (again from Ben's POV) between Unraveling and Unbreakable.
Not only is it interesting to see things through Ben's eyes, but if you plan to read book 2, Unbreakable, I highly recommend you read this short first.
RECOMMENDED FOR: Fans of Unraveling by Elizabeth Norris
This short story told from Ben's POV fills in some of the details from Unraveling and bridges the gap (again from Ben's POV) between Unraveling and Unbreakable.
Not only is it interesting to see things through Ben's eyes, but if you plan to read book 2, Unbreakable, I highly recommend you read this short first.
March 8, 2013
Enjoyed this ... three short stories told from Ben's POV. I especially enjoyed the last story, which takes place after Unraveling and before Unbreakable. I am, by the way, very excited about Unbreakable now. :-) Well, still excited. You know.
April 25, 2013
Thank you! Thank you Elizabeth Norris for writing this! Undone is told from Ben's Point of View. I didn't think it was possible for me to like him more! I loved getting a look at what his life had been like before he met Janelle and what it was like when he saved her. The best part was getting to see what happened to Ben after he left. These short stories really helped me to see what he was going through and helped me to understand Unraveling more. I can't believe the events that lead up to Unbreakable!!! This is definitely a must read.
Want to Read
October 19, 2012Eeeeee! From Elizabeth's website:
"Three stories from Ben's perspective, one that takes place a year before Unraveling, one that takes place during Unraveling, and one that takes place between Unraveling and Unbreakable." [link]
Gimme gimme gimme!
"Three stories from Ben's perspective, one that takes place a year before Unraveling, one that takes place during Unraveling, and one that takes place between Unraveling and Unbreakable." [link]
Gimme gimme gimme!
December 9, 2012
Holy sh**!
I adore this author because this woman never holds back. She fully commits and goes all out in every plot development in her stories, and it always ends up working marvelously. Exhilarating and thrilling, I can't wait to get to The next novel, even though it really sucks that it is the end.
I adore this author because this woman never holds back. She fully commits and goes all out in every plot development in her stories, and it always ends up working marvelously. Exhilarating and thrilling, I can't wait to get to The next novel, even though it really sucks that it is the end.
January 7, 2013
This has sated my obsession with getting UNBREAKABLE early.
Seeing Ben's POV has made me come to like his character a WHOLE LOT! Plus, we got to see what happened to him at the end of UNRAVELING.
Still cannot wait for UNBREAKABLE to come out!!!
Seeing Ben's POV has made me come to like his character a WHOLE LOT! Plus, we got to see what happened to him at the end of UNRAVELING.
Still cannot wait for UNBREAKABLE to come out!!!
May 17, 2017
Such a great novella! Really action pack. I felt so much of Ben's emotion; pain, grief, love. It was so heart whelming. The ending really got me excited in reading the next novel. I love Ben and Janelle so much. So glad there is a reunion.
March 7, 2013
So cool how it's broken down into before, during and after UNRAVELING and of course, it's BEN!
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