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The Hero Chronicles #1
Secrets
The Midwest lies in complete ruins after a catastrophic disaster kills tens of thousands and leaves hundreds of thousands injured. Nicholas Keller emerges out of the devastation as a shining light of hope for all. But his newfound fame comes with a price that his aunt will not let him pay. They flee into the shadows in order to protect his secret. However, as Nicholas begins his sophomore year at his fifth school in five years, strange and unexpected things begin to happen. He soon tumbles into a web of doomed love, extraordinary talents and a secret past, which threatens the lives of everyone he cares about. It’s up to Nicholas to confront the truth, even if it means his own death.
SECRETS is now available in audiobook format! Download your copy from Amazon today!
TRUST, book 2 in the series is now available exclusively on Amazon and on additional eBook sites February 10, 2014!
BOOK AN EVENT
Interested in hosting author Tim Mettey at your own school, church, workplace? Mr. Mettey is available to schedule speaking engagements about his books, his life, and his work with Matthew 25: Ministries. Please contact Katie Hallum at Katie@m25m.org or 513-793-6256 to schedule an event.
SECRETS is now available in audiobook format! Download your copy from Amazon today!
TRUST, book 2 in the series is now available exclusively on Amazon and on additional eBook sites February 10, 2014!
BOOK AN EVENT
Interested in hosting author Tim Mettey at your own school, church, workplace? Mr. Mettey is available to schedule speaking engagements about his books, his life, and his work with Matthew 25: Ministries. Please contact Katie Hallum at Katie@m25m.org or 513-793-6256 to schedule an event.
327 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
115 people are currently reading
1160 people want to read
About the author
Tim Mettey
10 books16 followersTim Mettey serves as CEO at Matthew 25: Ministries, an international humanitarian and disaster relief organization. Tim uses his many experiences and expertise in responding to disasters around the world to set the background for his The Hero Chronicles series. Tim struggles with and has overcome multiple learning disabilities with reading and writing to create this series. Tim advocates for literacy and education worldwide and hopes his journey can be an inspiration to others. He says, "Our disabilities do not define who we are, they make us stronger."
Tim is the father of eight beautiful children: Cora, Noel, Aubriana, Ashlyn, Eden, Livia, Graham & Jensen.
Visit Timmettey.com for details about upcoming events and new releases!
Tim is the father of eight beautiful children: Cora, Noel, Aubriana, Ashlyn, Eden, Livia, Graham & Jensen.
Visit Timmettey.com for details about upcoming events and new releases!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 2, 2012
Nicholas is starting school two hours away from his home town. This year he is coming under a change. Some may think good and others, not so much. He decides to take football. This year it's gonna be different from the past. His father played when he was in high school and excelled at it, so Nicholas does it as an homage to his father. He is the first underclassmen to play in varsity. His Aunt Cora, whom he calls mom, has him drop out. He's bringing too much attention to himself and it frightens her for various reasons.
This year Nicholas won't be able to hide as well as he has in the past. He makes friends with his fellow teammates and finds the one girl that is the calm in his storm, Elle. They start out as friends and things progress from there and they end up dating.
The problem in all of this is Oliver. He was the teams "golden boy". The face on several billboards around the city. He's used to being in the spotlight and doesn't take kindly to Nicholas. Nicholas is all that he isn't. Where Oliver is an arrogant prick, Nicholas is quiet and modest. Another problem. Elle is also the girl Oliver wants as his own and definitely doesn't like that Elle is more interested in Nicholas.
One would think this was enough to deal with. But, Nicholas's secrets and past is about to catch up to him. He will learn more about his family history and what came to pass five years earlier. And why it has been so important to keep him hidden.
I really liked this. It wasn't boring in the least and kept my attention the whole time. The only thing that drove me nuts was wanting to know why he had to stay on the down low. However, the clever author knew that would keep me from putting the book down. I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to the next one!
This year Nicholas won't be able to hide as well as he has in the past. He makes friends with his fellow teammates and finds the one girl that is the calm in his storm, Elle. They start out as friends and things progress from there and they end up dating.
The problem in all of this is Oliver. He was the teams "golden boy". The face on several billboards around the city. He's used to being in the spotlight and doesn't take kindly to Nicholas. Nicholas is all that he isn't. Where Oliver is an arrogant prick, Nicholas is quiet and modest. Another problem. Elle is also the girl Oliver wants as his own and definitely doesn't like that Elle is more interested in Nicholas.
One would think this was enough to deal with. But, Nicholas's secrets and past is about to catch up to him. He will learn more about his family history and what came to pass five years earlier. And why it has been so important to keep him hidden.
I really liked this. It wasn't boring in the least and kept my attention the whole time. The only thing that drove me nuts was wanting to know why he had to stay on the down low. However, the clever author knew that would keep me from putting the book down. I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to the next one!
November 17, 2012
Thank you to the Kenwood Publishing Group for this ARC!
Nothing frustrates me more then a book that doesn’t live up to its potential. When I read the blurb for this book, I expected a novel full of excitement. I actually liked how vague it was, because then I didn’t really know what to expect.
The problem is this book is not like the blurb at all. Well, except for the vague part.
The entire premise of this book is that Nicholas has to move every year to avoid…something. The blurb attempts to explain it and there are hints thrown in throughout the book, but honestly I wasn’t sure what was so important that he and his aunt had to uproot their lives every year and live in fear all the time. It never made sense to me, because it was never explained. Well, okay, it is explained, literally in the last seven chapters of the book (there are 32 chapters). Because I never got this explained to me, I never believed the premise of the book once, which snapped my suspension of disbelief almost immediately.
There is also the issue of what actually happens for a bulk of the book. Granted, I was expecting high school drama, but…that’s literally all I got. There was football and a bully and an ardent love that was way overdescribed for fifteen year olds. This was 90% of the book, honestly. We are forever hinted at these “extraordinary talents” that Nicholas is supposed to have, but they are only hints. The description of why he has them–and probably the most awesome thing in the book–doesn’t come until several chapters AFTER it is explained to us why Nicholas is always moving. By that time, the talents weren’t extraordinary anymore as much as something that just happened if he couldn’t eat his Tic Tacs.
In all honesty, I’m not sure I would have finished this book if I hadn’t promised a review for today. From the beginning, the writing was clunky and the dialogue very stiff. You all know how annoyed I get about high school drama and cliches being the forefront of a book, and this was no different.
The problem–and why I stick my review to 2 stars–is that this book has so much potential. The ideas that are here, though I can’t give them away because they’re so close to the end, are really awesome. If Nicholas’s past had been explained a heck of a lot farther towards the beginning, this rating could be whole stars different. Unfortunetly, I felt for the most part like I was being strung along for explanation that was a long time in coming and then never fully explored.
To be honest, I think that the second book in this series will be a lot better than the first. Why? Because now Mettey has gotten all his exposition out of the way. I was told at a writing conference a while back that something I wrote ended where the real story began, and that’s what I feel like happened with this book. You could probably pick up book 2 and read it without being any worse for wear. But I guess we’ll have to see.
Nothing frustrates me more then a book that doesn’t live up to its potential. When I read the blurb for this book, I expected a novel full of excitement. I actually liked how vague it was, because then I didn’t really know what to expect.
The problem is this book is not like the blurb at all. Well, except for the vague part.
The entire premise of this book is that Nicholas has to move every year to avoid…something. The blurb attempts to explain it and there are hints thrown in throughout the book, but honestly I wasn’t sure what was so important that he and his aunt had to uproot their lives every year and live in fear all the time. It never made sense to me, because it was never explained. Well, okay, it is explained, literally in the last seven chapters of the book (there are 32 chapters). Because I never got this explained to me, I never believed the premise of the book once, which snapped my suspension of disbelief almost immediately.
There is also the issue of what actually happens for a bulk of the book. Granted, I was expecting high school drama, but…that’s literally all I got. There was football and a bully and an ardent love that was way overdescribed for fifteen year olds. This was 90% of the book, honestly. We are forever hinted at these “extraordinary talents” that Nicholas is supposed to have, but they are only hints. The description of why he has them–and probably the most awesome thing in the book–doesn’t come until several chapters AFTER it is explained to us why Nicholas is always moving. By that time, the talents weren’t extraordinary anymore as much as something that just happened if he couldn’t eat his Tic Tacs.
In all honesty, I’m not sure I would have finished this book if I hadn’t promised a review for today. From the beginning, the writing was clunky and the dialogue very stiff. You all know how annoyed I get about high school drama and cliches being the forefront of a book, and this was no different.
The problem–and why I stick my review to 2 stars–is that this book has so much potential. The ideas that are here, though I can’t give them away because they’re so close to the end, are really awesome. If Nicholas’s past had been explained a heck of a lot farther towards the beginning, this rating could be whole stars different. Unfortunetly, I felt for the most part like I was being strung along for explanation that was a long time in coming and then never fully explored.
To be honest, I think that the second book in this series will be a lot better than the first. Why? Because now Mettey has gotten all his exposition out of the way. I was told at a writing conference a while back that something I wrote ended where the real story began, and that’s what I feel like happened with this book. You could probably pick up book 2 and read it without being any worse for wear. But I guess we’ll have to see.
November 11, 2012
Secrets is one of those stories that grab you from the beginning and continues to get better by the minute. I was so pulled into this story that I stayed up late to finish it because I just had to see what was going to happen. In the beginning of this story I was a bit confused because the story starts off with Alex. Alex is walking to school when a stranger asks him if he has seen what has happened. Alex is a little confused because he has no idea what the person is talking about. As he goes to see what happens he finds out that there was this accident and other things happened. I will not say because it will spoil it for you and I don't want to do that.
Then I turned the pages and I was introduced to Nicholas Keller who lives with his aunt because his parents died in an accident. They constantly are on the move and this is like his fifth school. As the story moves on you get to see what Nicholas is going through. He tries not to draw to much attention to himself and stays to himself until he gets to his new school where the guidance counselor persuades him to try out for football. He does try out and makes the varsity team. At first he is excited but then he gets hurt and can't play football anymore. That is when he meets a girl and he instantly wants to know who she is.
Once Nicholas and her get close things start to change for him and he notices things that he never has. See Nicholas has a secret that only he and his aunt know about and he is trying to figure out what it is. He thinks he knows but he is not sure. This story has the right amount of everything. It has just enough Paranormal to keep you reading and as the story unfolds you are in awe because you never expected that at all. The romance in the story is great because it goes slow and is not rushed and unbelievable. And the mystery is totally EPIC because it keeps you guessing and wanting to know more and more about Alex and Nicholas.
This is a MUST READ! Thank you Tim for allowing me to read the beginning of an epic series!
Then I turned the pages and I was introduced to Nicholas Keller who lives with his aunt because his parents died in an accident. They constantly are on the move and this is like his fifth school. As the story moves on you get to see what Nicholas is going through. He tries not to draw to much attention to himself and stays to himself until he gets to his new school where the guidance counselor persuades him to try out for football. He does try out and makes the varsity team. At first he is excited but then he gets hurt and can't play football anymore. That is when he meets a girl and he instantly wants to know who she is.
Once Nicholas and her get close things start to change for him and he notices things that he never has. See Nicholas has a secret that only he and his aunt know about and he is trying to figure out what it is. He thinks he knows but he is not sure. This story has the right amount of everything. It has just enough Paranormal to keep you reading and as the story unfolds you are in awe because you never expected that at all. The romance in the story is great because it goes slow and is not rushed and unbelievable. And the mystery is totally EPIC because it keeps you guessing and wanting to know more and more about Alex and Nicholas.
This is a MUST READ! Thank you Tim for allowing me to read the beginning of an epic series!
October 27, 2013
Secrets. The hero chronicles book 1
This is a fun read. A cross between I am number 4 and Smallville from the perspective of a ya male this has been a perfect read for the genre!
It is fast, really fast bit is one of the smoothest reads I have read in ages. It has romance though nothing explicit and some humor. With action and secrets and even sport in it I cannot help but think that it would appeal to all ya male readers and most if not all female readers in the same age category.
I loved this book. I am sure you will as well.
I will read the rest of this series. That I can guarantee.
WaAr
Free on Amazon. Pick up your copy today!
http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Hero-Ch...
This is a fun read. A cross between I am number 4 and Smallville from the perspective of a ya male this has been a perfect read for the genre!
It is fast, really fast bit is one of the smoothest reads I have read in ages. It has romance though nothing explicit and some humor. With action and secrets and even sport in it I cannot help but think that it would appeal to all ya male readers and most if not all female readers in the same age category.
I loved this book. I am sure you will as well.
I will read the rest of this series. That I can guarantee.
WaAr
Free on Amazon. Pick up your copy today!
http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Hero-Ch...
November 21, 2012
Read the review on my blog:
http://thaliasbooks.tumblr.com/post/3...
http://thaliasbooks.tumblr.com/post/3...
November 3, 2012
I received Secrets for review in return for an honest review. Nicholas Keller isn't your typical teenager. Five years ago his life changed forever his parents died in a disaster that killed thousands, and he emerged with a secret. He lives with his aunt now who pretends to be his mother to help avoid unwanted attention that they would draw otherwise. Every year on August tenth they move to a new city to start a new life all over, attempting to blend in as much as they can. Since the disaster five years prior they have been hiding from the what the future hold for Nicholas attempting to avoid it. For the last three years Nicholas has played football but he's never played in a game. He's been in five different schools on the run from a secret from his past that changed his life.
Upon moving a hundred miles from his home town things start to change. Instead of being in a small town like the typical town his aunt has chosen to move them to a bigger town that happen to love their football. At the insistence of his guidance counselor Nicholas decides to try out for football after all his father played football it's something he wanted to do for him. Cora isn't thrilled about the idea of Nicholas playing but she agrees to let him try out and see what happens. Its while at practice that Nicholas learns when he gets angry he sees the world slowing down, and has super strength. He proves himself an asset to the team and even makes varsity which is extremely rare considering it's never happened before so much for trying not to draw attention.
During the first game Nicholas catches sight of a dark haired girl he describes as an angel she instantly has his attention and when he learns he shares a class with her he can't help falling for her. The attraction is mutual and the pair became instant good friends. After an accident that ends Nicholas's football chances it also takes some of the heat off him as he tries not to draw attention to himself. Nicholas is nominated for homecoming but when he asks Elle he finds out that she's already agreed to attend the dance with Oliver the senior who has been tormenting him. Though she tells him she wants him to go to the dance, at the last minute he agrees to go with an Eric and the group he’s going with.
I found the story entertaining, I like the mystery around Nicholas he has this big secret that we don't learn about till the end of the book. It keeps you guessing and wanting to know more so for me it was hard to put the book down till I knew what it was. I liked the football aspects my hubby is a huge football fan and with football season it seemed to fit as well. I could see lots of teen boys being into the story because Nicholas does something that most teen boys do or watch. Nicholas is a very easy to relate character, he's quiet and a little shy but he comes off as the good guy you don't see too often in books anymore. I would describe the story as a suspenseful paranormal coming of age love story with a little post-apocalyptic thrown in. The story is well written it flows smoothly so it's easy for anyone to get lost in the story and lose track of time. Overall it's a great first book in the series and I'm curious to see what happens next.
Upon moving a hundred miles from his home town things start to change. Instead of being in a small town like the typical town his aunt has chosen to move them to a bigger town that happen to love their football. At the insistence of his guidance counselor Nicholas decides to try out for football after all his father played football it's something he wanted to do for him. Cora isn't thrilled about the idea of Nicholas playing but she agrees to let him try out and see what happens. Its while at practice that Nicholas learns when he gets angry he sees the world slowing down, and has super strength. He proves himself an asset to the team and even makes varsity which is extremely rare considering it's never happened before so much for trying not to draw attention.
During the first game Nicholas catches sight of a dark haired girl he describes as an angel she instantly has his attention and when he learns he shares a class with her he can't help falling for her. The attraction is mutual and the pair became instant good friends. After an accident that ends Nicholas's football chances it also takes some of the heat off him as he tries not to draw attention to himself. Nicholas is nominated for homecoming but when he asks Elle he finds out that she's already agreed to attend the dance with Oliver the senior who has been tormenting him. Though she tells him she wants him to go to the dance, at the last minute he agrees to go with an Eric and the group he’s going with.
I found the story entertaining, I like the mystery around Nicholas he has this big secret that we don't learn about till the end of the book. It keeps you guessing and wanting to know more so for me it was hard to put the book down till I knew what it was. I liked the football aspects my hubby is a huge football fan and with football season it seemed to fit as well. I could see lots of teen boys being into the story because Nicholas does something that most teen boys do or watch. Nicholas is a very easy to relate character, he's quiet and a little shy but he comes off as the good guy you don't see too often in books anymore. I would describe the story as a suspenseful paranormal coming of age love story with a little post-apocalyptic thrown in. The story is well written it flows smoothly so it's easy for anyone to get lost in the story and lose track of time. Overall it's a great first book in the series and I'm curious to see what happens next.
November 3, 2012
Secrets is a very appropriate title for this book! It sucked me in right from the get go. In the first chapter we are introduced to Alex Taylor. On his way to school he is asked if he has seen "The strange lights in the sky that look like clouds with rainbows trapped inside." That, for one, had me instantly intrigued. I wanted to know more about it right away, but the author switches gears, and all of a sudden something terrible happens. By this time, my eyes were as wide as saucers because I was trying to figure out what was going on.
Then,you flip to the next page, aaaand, you are fast forwarded five years and introduced to Nicholas. Now, I know you're frowning and trying to figure out if I'm trying to trick you. No, I'm not. This is really part of the story, which had me absolutely thrilled. I love books that keep me on my toes, and trying to figure out what's going on.Nicholas has lived with his aunt Cora ever since his parents died. Nicholas loves Cora, and even calls her mom, but for the every year on August 10, they move to a different city, and after five years of the same thing, it gets tiring. Especially since they must always keep a low profile...
Nicholas was one of those characters that you can't help but fall in love with just a little. He's just so sweet and polite! I wish I knew more guys that were like him. I loved seeing how his character grew throughout the story, and how he interacted with the rest of the characters in the book. It seemed like I almost always had a smile on my face, especially when he was around Elle, his "angel". Awwww! :)
Secrets is a great book that I would recommend to anyone who is looking for a new book to read. There's just the right mix of paranormal, romance, football, and mystery, that it will appeal to guys and girls of all ages. It was extremely tempting to flip through the book to find out what was going to happen, and figure out what the whole Alex/Nicholas connection was. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story changed direction, and I was stumped once again. Tim Mettey sure knows how to keep his readers flipping through the pages of the book until the wee hours of the morning. The story was smooth, and I was never confused as to what was happening. I didn't feel like I was being led around in circles. All the questions that I had while I was reading this book were answered by the time I finished reading it. The only bad thing is the fact that now that I have finished Secrets, I have no idea when the next book is going to come out!
*I was given this book in exchange for my honest review*
Then,you flip to the next page, aaaand, you are fast forwarded five years and introduced to Nicholas. Now, I know you're frowning and trying to figure out if I'm trying to trick you. No, I'm not. This is really part of the story, which had me absolutely thrilled. I love books that keep me on my toes, and trying to figure out what's going on.Nicholas has lived with his aunt Cora ever since his parents died. Nicholas loves Cora, and even calls her mom, but for the every year on August 10, they move to a different city, and after five years of the same thing, it gets tiring. Especially since they must always keep a low profile...
Nicholas was one of those characters that you can't help but fall in love with just a little. He's just so sweet and polite! I wish I knew more guys that were like him. I loved seeing how his character grew throughout the story, and how he interacted with the rest of the characters in the book. It seemed like I almost always had a smile on my face, especially when he was around Elle, his "angel". Awwww! :)
Secrets is a great book that I would recommend to anyone who is looking for a new book to read. There's just the right mix of paranormal, romance, football, and mystery, that it will appeal to guys and girls of all ages. It was extremely tempting to flip through the book to find out what was going to happen, and figure out what the whole Alex/Nicholas connection was. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story changed direction, and I was stumped once again. Tim Mettey sure knows how to keep his readers flipping through the pages of the book until the wee hours of the morning. The story was smooth, and I was never confused as to what was happening. I didn't feel like I was being led around in circles. All the questions that I had while I was reading this book were answered by the time I finished reading it. The only bad thing is the fact that now that I have finished Secrets, I have no idea when the next book is going to come out!
*I was given this book in exchange for my honest review*
October 26, 2012
I really enjoyed this book! The romance was great and the mystery kept me hooked. Full review to come on my blog in November!
August 9, 2017
The story has potential, but it is just too vague too far in. The book is described online as this: "The Midwest lies in complete ruins after a catastrophic disaster kills tens of thousands and leaves hundreds of thousands injured. Nicholas Keller emerges out of the devastation as a shining light of hope for all."
However, I'm several chapters in and we know nothing like the description. In the prologue, there are rainbow lights in the sky and an earthquake or something happens at Nicholas's school. The book then moves forward several years and Nicholas lives with his aunt (no explanation about if he did so before the "event") and they move every year for his safety. They move to a town 100 miles from where he lived when the "event" happened. At his last home, he ran really fast once. That is all. If the Midwest is in ruins, how does this work? They move to Illinois which is in the midwest.
It just took too long to get to the point, and I don't have the patience right now. I'll try again at some other point but I just don't like vague books that revolve around a big event/issue but don't explain what it is.
However, I'm several chapters in and we know nothing like the description. In the prologue, there are rainbow lights in the sky and an earthquake or something happens at Nicholas's school. The book then moves forward several years and Nicholas lives with his aunt (no explanation about if he did so before the "event") and they move every year for his safety. They move to a town 100 miles from where he lived when the "event" happened. At his last home, he ran really fast once. That is all. If the Midwest is in ruins, how does this work? They move to Illinois which is in the midwest.
It just took too long to get to the point, and I don't have the patience right now. I'll try again at some other point but I just don't like vague books that revolve around a big event/issue but don't explain what it is.
June 24, 2019
Solid YA Thriller
The two main characters are quite good and their mutual attraction is both touching and believable. The book is slow moving at times and the big reveal at the end is a little hard to take, as is the abrupt ending, leading into the sequels. I shan't be along for that ride, but then I am not 15.
The two main characters are quite good and their mutual attraction is both touching and believable. The book is slow moving at times and the big reveal at the end is a little hard to take, as is the abrupt ending, leading into the sequels. I shan't be along for that ride, but then I am not 15.
July 5, 2017
A good start to a series that begins with a mystery, of why a boy is having to move in secret.
The answers are slowly revealed as he enrolls into a new school, and meets his new class
mates. The story continue in book 2, with no cliffhangers, and a happy ending for book one.
Recommended
The answers are slowly revealed as he enrolls into a new school, and meets his new class
mates. The story continue in book 2, with no cliffhangers, and a happy ending for book one.
Recommended
March 1, 2018
Great!
This is a really good book.
I really enjoyed it.
The only thing I would change was that it would drag on a bit.
I would recommend this to 11-15 year olds.
Get this book!!!!!!!!!🙏
This is a really good book.
I really enjoyed it.
The only thing I would change was that it would drag on a bit.
I would recommend this to 11-15 year olds.
Get this book!!!!!!!!!🙏
March 9, 2019
Heroes and Villains
Great read for all ages!! Amazing characters from Nicholas to Cora then Elle!! Supporting characters rock!! Could not put down!!
Great read for all ages!! Amazing characters from Nicholas to Cora then Elle!! Supporting characters rock!! Could not put down!!
July 19, 2019
The blurb promised YA adventure teen with super powers. I got football and high school crap for 24 chapters and adventure for the last 6.
September 30, 2019
Interesting read.
Loved the fast pace of this story. Had never heard of this author before, but was intrigued with his writing skills.
Want to read all the books in this series.
Loved the fast pace of this story. Had never heard of this author before, but was intrigued with his writing skills.
Want to read all the books in this series.
February 19, 2022
Not bad but not for me.
March 13, 2024
An epic romance
March 20, 2017
Good until the end.
The book is really good. It gets your attention quickly. It keeps you wondering what will have at the end and who is Nicholas Keller. Towards the end of the book when you found out who he is and why he can do amazing things, it get really predictable. Great story and characters through.
The book is really good. It gets your attention quickly. It keeps you wondering what will have at the end and who is Nicholas Keller. Towards the end of the book when you found out who he is and why he can do amazing things, it get really predictable. Great story and characters through.
January 17, 2013
I would describe Tim Mettey’s SECRETS as a paranormal teen romance with a hint of apocalyptic spiritualism. That sounds like a complicated mix, but it’s actually a fairly straight-forward story. The novel begins with a ten-year-old boy named Alex Taylor who experiences something traumatic – it’s not clear exactly what that something is, but it’s transformative for Alex and for the community in which he lives. Then the story shifts ahead five years and we meet fifteen-year-old Nicholas Keller, who is wrapped up in some sort of mystery. Ever since the death of his parents, Nicholas has been living with his Aunt Cora, who has become a surrogate mom for him. But there is something strange about Nicholas’s life – he and Cora are hiding from someone or something. They have moved annually for the past five years, so that Nicholas has never spent more than one year in the same school since fifth grade. What is the connection between Nicholas and Alex, and what is the mystery behind Nicholas’s nomadic lifestyle?
While the mysteries behind Nicholas’s life do permeate the background of SECRETS, the majority of the story is actually a fairly straight-forward teen romantic drama. Nicholas is the new kid in school, which is tough for any 10th grader – he wants to play football (which was his dad’s sport), but his new school has a really top notch team, so making it will be hard. He also wants to get to know Elle, the gorgeous junior he keeps seeing – he calls her his “angel,” and describes her as “adorable.” At the same time, Cora keeps reminding him that he can’t attract any attention to himself, or they’ll have to move again. Problems arise when he does remarkably well during football tryouts – better than any sophomore has done in the school’s history. And when he and angelic Elle start seeing each other, it looks like Nicholas’s sophomore year might actually be his best year ever. But being the only JV player on the Varsity team brings Nicholas a little too much attention, and some of the other players (especially big-shot captain Oliver, who feels threatened by both Nicholas’s skill at football and his growing relationship with gorgeous Elle), aren’t too happy about his presence in their high school.
If this all sounds a little tame, stick with it for the payoff, which is both interesting and fairly satisfying. Mattey admittedly teases the reader for most of the novel’s 320 pages with veiled hints about what Nicholas’s secrets really are, but he does provide answers in the end, and those answers do make sense in terms of the story. This is ultimately a supernatural story, and there are suggestions that Nicholas’s ultimate purpose in life may have spiritual connections. SECRETS is the first in a proposed series called THE HERO CHRONICLES, and Nicholas’s heroism has many levels. Is he just a kid who has a knack for being in the right place at the right time? And why is he suddenly so good at football, so strong, so fast, and so able to do things no ordinary fifteen-year-old can do? Stick with the novel and you’ll find out.
Personally, I found all the football in SECRETS to be a bit tedious – I’m not a fan of the sport, and there’s a lot of it in the first half of the novel. But this shouldn’t be a problem for most teen readers (and boys, especially, may relate to Nicholas through his dedication to football). I will admit that Nicholas is a bit more polite and courteous than most fifteen-year-olds today. No way would any “bad language” cross his lips! He’s deferential to adults, chivalrous with women, and a constant user of “please” and “thank you.” And while he definitely feels a physical attraction to lovely Elle, their relationship is ultimately platonic – there’s no way anything’s happening between these two beyond a chaste kiss. Any parent would be delighted to have their kids reading this book – it portrays teenagers in a sweet and wholesome light that is seldom seen in this era of violent video games and offensive music.
I do recommend SECRETS to teen readers looking for a mix of romance and paranormal adventure. I’d say it’s aimed more at the young end of the YA range (12-15, probably). The book was published through Matthew 25 Ministries, which is a humanitarian Christian organization providing relief to those in need. Although it does have a spiritual context, I would not describe SECRETS as a Christian novel. Non-Christian readers will not be bothered by anything Mattey is doing here. Bottom line, it’s a good story. And I do think future installments of THE HERO CHRONICLES could be very interesting. It wouldn’t make a bad TV series, either!
While the mysteries behind Nicholas’s life do permeate the background of SECRETS, the majority of the story is actually a fairly straight-forward teen romantic drama. Nicholas is the new kid in school, which is tough for any 10th grader – he wants to play football (which was his dad’s sport), but his new school has a really top notch team, so making it will be hard. He also wants to get to know Elle, the gorgeous junior he keeps seeing – he calls her his “angel,” and describes her as “adorable.” At the same time, Cora keeps reminding him that he can’t attract any attention to himself, or they’ll have to move again. Problems arise when he does remarkably well during football tryouts – better than any sophomore has done in the school’s history. And when he and angelic Elle start seeing each other, it looks like Nicholas’s sophomore year might actually be his best year ever. But being the only JV player on the Varsity team brings Nicholas a little too much attention, and some of the other players (especially big-shot captain Oliver, who feels threatened by both Nicholas’s skill at football and his growing relationship with gorgeous Elle), aren’t too happy about his presence in their high school.
If this all sounds a little tame, stick with it for the payoff, which is both interesting and fairly satisfying. Mattey admittedly teases the reader for most of the novel’s 320 pages with veiled hints about what Nicholas’s secrets really are, but he does provide answers in the end, and those answers do make sense in terms of the story. This is ultimately a supernatural story, and there are suggestions that Nicholas’s ultimate purpose in life may have spiritual connections. SECRETS is the first in a proposed series called THE HERO CHRONICLES, and Nicholas’s heroism has many levels. Is he just a kid who has a knack for being in the right place at the right time? And why is he suddenly so good at football, so strong, so fast, and so able to do things no ordinary fifteen-year-old can do? Stick with the novel and you’ll find out.
Personally, I found all the football in SECRETS to be a bit tedious – I’m not a fan of the sport, and there’s a lot of it in the first half of the novel. But this shouldn’t be a problem for most teen readers (and boys, especially, may relate to Nicholas through his dedication to football). I will admit that Nicholas is a bit more polite and courteous than most fifteen-year-olds today. No way would any “bad language” cross his lips! He’s deferential to adults, chivalrous with women, and a constant user of “please” and “thank you.” And while he definitely feels a physical attraction to lovely Elle, their relationship is ultimately platonic – there’s no way anything’s happening between these two beyond a chaste kiss. Any parent would be delighted to have their kids reading this book – it portrays teenagers in a sweet and wholesome light that is seldom seen in this era of violent video games and offensive music.
I do recommend SECRETS to teen readers looking for a mix of romance and paranormal adventure. I’d say it’s aimed more at the young end of the YA range (12-15, probably). The book was published through Matthew 25 Ministries, which is a humanitarian Christian organization providing relief to those in need. Although it does have a spiritual context, I would not describe SECRETS as a Christian novel. Non-Christian readers will not be bothered by anything Mattey is doing here. Bottom line, it’s a good story. And I do think future installments of THE HERO CHRONICLES could be very interesting. It wouldn’t make a bad TV series, either!
November 8, 2012
Secrets, the first installment in The Hero Chronicles series by Tim Mettey tells the story of Nicholas Keller, a teenager who moves to a new city with the only family he has left, his aunt Cora, and against all the rules starts making friends (an enemy too), playing football, a sport he doesn’t understand completely but in which he’s good at, and he even gets himself a lovely girlfriend.
This would have been normal for every other teenage boy but it certainly isn’t for Nicholas who has never been allowed to make connections with others or to call the slightest attention to himself before---why, you ask? Well, the title of this book is Secrets and Nicholas has a few of them, and as so, his aunt fears constantly for his safety and keeps coaching him on being “invisible”.
I can honestly say that the mysteries around Nicholas kept me hooked on the story, I wanted to unravel them all, to find out why he must keep a low profile at all times, what happened in his past, and of course, what was the real story behind his parent’s deaths. Another big mystery has to do with his special abilities—he can run super fast, he’s very strong, and he boils inside when someone makes him angry, to the point that I thought he was going to be some kind of Hulk.
Overall Nicholas was a good, decent, likable protagonist and I would befriend him in a minute if I could; aunt Cora reminded me of my own aunts, her sacrifice was touching; and Elle, the girlfriend, in one word: classy. Nicholas has great taste.
There was one thing that bothered me though, the amount of dialogue that starts with “So”, but that’s just a minor detail.
To sum up: an interesting, straightforward, easy to read first chapter of a teenage hero’s life.
(I received a copy of Secrets in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to the Kenwood Publishing Group for the opportunity.)
This would have been normal for every other teenage boy but it certainly isn’t for Nicholas who has never been allowed to make connections with others or to call the slightest attention to himself before---why, you ask? Well, the title of this book is Secrets and Nicholas has a few of them, and as so, his aunt fears constantly for his safety and keeps coaching him on being “invisible”.
I can honestly say that the mysteries around Nicholas kept me hooked on the story, I wanted to unravel them all, to find out why he must keep a low profile at all times, what happened in his past, and of course, what was the real story behind his parent’s deaths. Another big mystery has to do with his special abilities—he can run super fast, he’s very strong, and he boils inside when someone makes him angry, to the point that I thought he was going to be some kind of Hulk.
Overall Nicholas was a good, decent, likable protagonist and I would befriend him in a minute if I could; aunt Cora reminded me of my own aunts, her sacrifice was touching; and Elle, the girlfriend, in one word: classy. Nicholas has great taste.
There was one thing that bothered me though, the amount of dialogue that starts with “So”, but that’s just a minor detail.
To sum up: an interesting, straightforward, easy to read first chapter of a teenage hero’s life.
(I received a copy of Secrets in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to the Kenwood Publishing Group for the opportunity.)
July 23, 2016
Sono rimasta felicemente colpita da questo libro che altrimenti sarebbe passato sotto i miei occhi senza interessarmi minimamente. Quando ho accettato di recensirlo e ho aspettato che mi arrivasse a casa, avevo completamente dimenticato la trama e vi assicuro che credevo si trattasse di una romance. Si potete darmi della fissata perché è l’assoluta verità. Ma questo è uno YA e fino alla fine ne dubitavo ma ha anche una componente paranormale, e per la mia immensa gioia ha anche la romance. Un libro che mi ha soddisfatto pienamente sotto più punti di vista.
Mattey ha creato un protagonista maschile, Nicholas e chi mi segue sa quanto io adori i punti di vista maschili, riproducendo un ragazzo pieno di contraddizioni tipicamente adolescenziali ma allo stesso tempo assolutamente formidabile, dolce, coraggioso e molto maturo per avere soli quindici anni. È stanco di nascondersi e di evitare rapporti con i suoi coetanei e quando ormai tutto concorre a renderlo una star non si preoccupa più di bloccare nulla. Veloce, rapido e incredibilmente solo mette un’immensa tenerezza. Nicholas ci racconta la sua storia in prima persona e proprio questo particolare che rende la storia ancora più immediata e interessante.
Questa è una storia che forse non ha niente di speciale all’apparenza e che invece si rivelerà essere una piccola meraviglia. Mistero, paranormale e tenerezza vi faranno compagnia e pensare che questo è un libro scritto da un uomo, non lo si penserebbe mai. Io spero di leggere presto il secondo volume di cui sono iper curiosa.
Buona lettura guys!
Io non posso che ringraziare ancora Katie Hallum della Kenwood Publishing Group per avermi concesso l’incredibile opportunità di ricevere a casa questo libro e Tim Mettey per il piacere di leggere una storia straordinaria.
Recensione completa e intervista a Tim Mettey sul mio blog:
http://pleaseanotherbook.tumblr.com/p...
Mattey ha creato un protagonista maschile, Nicholas e chi mi segue sa quanto io adori i punti di vista maschili, riproducendo un ragazzo pieno di contraddizioni tipicamente adolescenziali ma allo stesso tempo assolutamente formidabile, dolce, coraggioso e molto maturo per avere soli quindici anni. È stanco di nascondersi e di evitare rapporti con i suoi coetanei e quando ormai tutto concorre a renderlo una star non si preoccupa più di bloccare nulla. Veloce, rapido e incredibilmente solo mette un’immensa tenerezza. Nicholas ci racconta la sua storia in prima persona e proprio questo particolare che rende la storia ancora più immediata e interessante.
Questa è una storia che forse non ha niente di speciale all’apparenza e che invece si rivelerà essere una piccola meraviglia. Mistero, paranormale e tenerezza vi faranno compagnia e pensare che questo è un libro scritto da un uomo, non lo si penserebbe mai. Io spero di leggere presto il secondo volume di cui sono iper curiosa.
Buona lettura guys!
Io non posso che ringraziare ancora Katie Hallum della Kenwood Publishing Group per avermi concesso l’incredibile opportunità di ricevere a casa questo libro e Tim Mettey per il piacere di leggere una storia straordinaria.
Recensione completa e intervista a Tim Mettey sul mio blog:
http://pleaseanotherbook.tumblr.com/p...
November 13, 2012
I was looking forward to reading Secrets, and it ended up telling a really interesting story!
Secrets is the first book in the Hero Chronicles Series. It follows a boy, Nicholas, who had been living in hiding for multiple years, after becoming a hero. When he moves into a new town, he starts to gain newfound fame from football and meets the perfect girl. However, he may end up having to choose between them or keeping his secret.
The plot was super interesting for this book, and I was eager to find out what Nick had done in the book to make him into a hero. His aunt was so paranoid about people finding him, so I figured it must have been something big. It took about 3/4 of the book until the secret was finally revealed and from there, I loved how action-packed the plot became. Also, there were several mysterious things that happened to Nick throughout the book that kept me reading.
Nick has a love interest, Elle. I liked her, but I felt she was somewhat too perfect. I wish she had been described some more, especially her backstory- which was mentioned once to twice in Secrets. I did think Elle and Nick had an extremely cute relationship, though. Also, I usually don;t like reading about male main characters, but I really enjoyed Nick's perspective.
Unfortunately, I felt the dialogue and narration fell flat. I didn't think the way some of the teenagers talked was realistic and I felt certain details were put in that weren't necessary. Certain lines didn't have anything to do with the story, and stated basic facts.
Overall, I enjoyed both the plot and Nick's perspective in Secrets. Although the dialogue wasn't the best, Secrets was still a good read. I'd give it 3 out of 5 flowers. If you're looking for a book with a great mystery in it, I'd check Secrets out! :)
*Thanks to Kenwood Publishing Group for sending me a copy of Secrets to read and review! :)
Review also posted at http://www.thebookbelles.blogspot.com
Secrets is the first book in the Hero Chronicles Series. It follows a boy, Nicholas, who had been living in hiding for multiple years, after becoming a hero. When he moves into a new town, he starts to gain newfound fame from football and meets the perfect girl. However, he may end up having to choose between them or keeping his secret.
The plot was super interesting for this book, and I was eager to find out what Nick had done in the book to make him into a hero. His aunt was so paranoid about people finding him, so I figured it must have been something big. It took about 3/4 of the book until the secret was finally revealed and from there, I loved how action-packed the plot became. Also, there were several mysterious things that happened to Nick throughout the book that kept me reading.
Nick has a love interest, Elle. I liked her, but I felt she was somewhat too perfect. I wish she had been described some more, especially her backstory- which was mentioned once to twice in Secrets. I did think Elle and Nick had an extremely cute relationship, though. Also, I usually don;t like reading about male main characters, but I really enjoyed Nick's perspective.
Unfortunately, I felt the dialogue and narration fell flat. I didn't think the way some of the teenagers talked was realistic and I felt certain details were put in that weren't necessary. Certain lines didn't have anything to do with the story, and stated basic facts.
Overall, I enjoyed both the plot and Nick's perspective in Secrets. Although the dialogue wasn't the best, Secrets was still a good read. I'd give it 3 out of 5 flowers. If you're looking for a book with a great mystery in it, I'd check Secrets out! :)
*Thanks to Kenwood Publishing Group for sending me a copy of Secrets to read and review! :)
Review also posted at http://www.thebookbelles.blogspot.com
January 2, 2013
Nicholas Keller and his aunt Cora, I mean mom, move to a new town every year on the same day. To Nicholas she is his aunt, but to the rest of the world, Cora is known as his mother. She wants it this way to help keep his identity a secret. That is also why they move every year. She does not want anyone finding out the truth about her nephew.
What is his secret? Nicholas doesn't know all of it nor that there is more than what he does know. Five years ago he rescued some people during the 10-10 earthquakes that killed his parents. The media has been after him since then. Nicholas believes that is the whole secret, but there's more.
The new town the two usually move to is small and away from where they originally lived, but not the one Cora has picked this time. The town of Winsor, located only an hour away from Nicholas's original hometown, has a sprawling high school with a very publicized football team. At the request of his guidance counselor to get involved in something, Nicholas joins the football team. Trying out, he's not sure he'll even make it, but suddenly finds himself on the varsity team and the bane of the captain.
This story is about Nicholas's time at the high school. He's supposed to keep quiet and not draw attention to himself, but everything he does goes against his aunt's wishes. He tries to do what she wants but it always backfires on him.
It is a decent story. It is one of those fantasy hero stories with a secret world humans are to know nothing about. I think it's best suited for an older middle grades reader. Everything about the book screams cliche. There's the cliche captain of the football team, the new kid, the girlfriend, everything. It is corny, but it doesn't feel out of place. I don't know if that's saying what I want it to say. What I'm saying, I guess, is that it fits. The story would not be the story without the cliche.
What's Nicholas's real secret? Read the book to find out!
What is his secret? Nicholas doesn't know all of it nor that there is more than what he does know. Five years ago he rescued some people during the 10-10 earthquakes that killed his parents. The media has been after him since then. Nicholas believes that is the whole secret, but there's more.
The new town the two usually move to is small and away from where they originally lived, but not the one Cora has picked this time. The town of Winsor, located only an hour away from Nicholas's original hometown, has a sprawling high school with a very publicized football team. At the request of his guidance counselor to get involved in something, Nicholas joins the football team. Trying out, he's not sure he'll even make it, but suddenly finds himself on the varsity team and the bane of the captain.
This story is about Nicholas's time at the high school. He's supposed to keep quiet and not draw attention to himself, but everything he does goes against his aunt's wishes. He tries to do what she wants but it always backfires on him.
It is a decent story. It is one of those fantasy hero stories with a secret world humans are to know nothing about. I think it's best suited for an older middle grades reader. Everything about the book screams cliche. There's the cliche captain of the football team, the new kid, the girlfriend, everything. It is corny, but it doesn't feel out of place. I don't know if that's saying what I want it to say. What I'm saying, I guess, is that it fits. The story would not be the story without the cliche.
What's Nicholas's real secret? Read the book to find out!
April 21, 2014
Reviewed for Readers Favorite
Nicholas has moved at the end of summer every year that he has lived with his Aunt since his parents death. It's just part of his life, not that he likes it, but that is the way his Aunt says it has to be, and he has to keep from making friends or talking too much about himself. This time they move closer to his old hometown, the first time they have come back this way since they left, and things are beginning to change. He falls for a girl, and wants to form relationships for the first time, but his Aunt is still cautious but allows him more this time around. Only problem, strange things are happening. Tim Mettey takes the concept of a hero, adds some paranormal and a world in flux after a huge natural disaster to create a story that you want to be part of. Secrets starts out this series with the knowledge that there is a great deal in the world that Nicholas doesn't know about, and now is apparently the time for him to find out about a number of those.
Recently hero books seem to be all the rage, but this book is different. Nicholas is considered a hero by a number of people, but he doesn't think that way. He thinks he is a normal teenager, which gives this a different vibe. Nicholas is not a cocky kid, but a true humble and confused teenager and that is part of what makes Secrets a wonderful book. Secrets is the first book in the Hero Chronicles series that Tim Mettey has created. This book will pull you in and remind you of high school if you are an adult, but be so relate-able to the young adult and teen market. The paranormal slant to the book gives it a new and different vibe, but at the same time I could easily see Nicholas fitting into our local high school. I found this to be a easy to relate to novel that drew me in. I love it for the young adult and teen market, in fact will gladly share it with my teens at home. This is definitely worth the time to read.
Nicholas has moved at the end of summer every year that he has lived with his Aunt since his parents death. It's just part of his life, not that he likes it, but that is the way his Aunt says it has to be, and he has to keep from making friends or talking too much about himself. This time they move closer to his old hometown, the first time they have come back this way since they left, and things are beginning to change. He falls for a girl, and wants to form relationships for the first time, but his Aunt is still cautious but allows him more this time around. Only problem, strange things are happening. Tim Mettey takes the concept of a hero, adds some paranormal and a world in flux after a huge natural disaster to create a story that you want to be part of. Secrets starts out this series with the knowledge that there is a great deal in the world that Nicholas doesn't know about, and now is apparently the time for him to find out about a number of those.
Recently hero books seem to be all the rage, but this book is different. Nicholas is considered a hero by a number of people, but he doesn't think that way. He thinks he is a normal teenager, which gives this a different vibe. Nicholas is not a cocky kid, but a true humble and confused teenager and that is part of what makes Secrets a wonderful book. Secrets is the first book in the Hero Chronicles series that Tim Mettey has created. This book will pull you in and remind you of high school if you are an adult, but be so relate-able to the young adult and teen market. The paranormal slant to the book gives it a new and different vibe, but at the same time I could easily see Nicholas fitting into our local high school. I found this to be a easy to relate to novel that drew me in. I love it for the young adult and teen market, in fact will gladly share it with my teens at home. This is definitely worth the time to read.
November 2, 2012
Tim Mettey's Secrets starts off with a resounding bang. When it opens, the reader is introduced to Alex, a young boy who has just gone through a terrible disaster. As you read about the events that transform Alex's life, anticipation of what is to come builds. Then you turn the page and Alex, he is gone. Instead the story focuses on Nicholas Keller, a high school student who has been on the move with his aunt Cora since the tragic death of his parents. The transition between plots is both sudden but subtle, and will have you wondering how these two characters have anything to do with each other.
After reading a bit more, you may begin to wonder if the book was printed wrong- I definitely did, considering I had a galley copy. But it is not. The form of writing is constant, and Mettey's style is constant throughout the telling of the lives of both Alex and Nicholas.
What may infuriate you is the fact that the bond between Alex and Nicholas isn't mentioned for much of the book. This however is an amazing feat for the author to pull off, because when the clues as to how they interact begin to emerge, and the paranormal reason behind it is revealed, the impact of the story is heightened profusely.
Nicholas' life is an exciting one, and witnessing his interactions, actions, and knowing his thoughts is an enjoyable experience.
This book took me through the wringer, and after reading it I immediately wanted more- which is shameful since Secrets will not be released until tomorrow- November 3.
After reading Secrets, I am highly anticipating the continuation of The Hero Chronicles, and more of Mettey's dynamic writing. I would recommend this book to many.
5 shining stars from me!
After reading a bit more, you may begin to wonder if the book was printed wrong- I definitely did, considering I had a galley copy. But it is not. The form of writing is constant, and Mettey's style is constant throughout the telling of the lives of both Alex and Nicholas.
What may infuriate you is the fact that the bond between Alex and Nicholas isn't mentioned for much of the book. This however is an amazing feat for the author to pull off, because when the clues as to how they interact begin to emerge, and the paranormal reason behind it is revealed, the impact of the story is heightened profusely.
Nicholas' life is an exciting one, and witnessing his interactions, actions, and knowing his thoughts is an enjoyable experience.
This book took me through the wringer, and after reading it I immediately wanted more- which is shameful since Secrets will not be released until tomorrow- November 3.
After reading Secrets, I am highly anticipating the continuation of The Hero Chronicles, and more of Mettey's dynamic writing. I would recommend this book to many.
5 shining stars from me!
February 26, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
Five years following the earthquake that destroyed the Midwest, leaving thousands dead and injured, Nicholas Keller is still on the run, trying to protect his identity. However, when his aunt finally decides to let him settle in and be a normal kid for a change, all of Nicholas’ dreams are starting to come true… but at a price. Will he be willing to sacrifice all he’s ever wanted for the anonymity his aunt so desperately wants for him?
Nicholas Keller is a different sort of boy. After becoming a hero following the great quake on 10-10 five years earlier, he’s been forced into hiding for his own safety. Even though he’s forced to move every year on the same day, he doesn’t let it get him down. Not one to make friends, it’s easier to pick up and go on to the next city and the next life. His character was a nice mix of hero and real boy. He knew his duty and yet, he had his moments of insecurity and rebellion as well. It made for a more realistic Nicholas.
While the story was engaging and the characters interesting, sometimes the writing, mostly the dialogue, fell a bit flat. Although the story is aimed at an older audience, the more simplistic writing style makes it perfect for younger readers in the 12 to 14 age range to cut their teeth on.
Secrets is a novel full of just that – lots and lots of secrets. As they’re slowly revealed to both the reader and Nicholas himself, you’re drawn farther and farther into this new alternate universe that is so familiar and yet very different from our own. Aside from a few issues I had with the author’s style, the novel itself was interesting and engaging and a good read for younger audiences.
Five years following the earthquake that destroyed the Midwest, leaving thousands dead and injured, Nicholas Keller is still on the run, trying to protect his identity. However, when his aunt finally decides to let him settle in and be a normal kid for a change, all of Nicholas’ dreams are starting to come true… but at a price. Will he be willing to sacrifice all he’s ever wanted for the anonymity his aunt so desperately wants for him?
Nicholas Keller is a different sort of boy. After becoming a hero following the great quake on 10-10 five years earlier, he’s been forced into hiding for his own safety. Even though he’s forced to move every year on the same day, he doesn’t let it get him down. Not one to make friends, it’s easier to pick up and go on to the next city and the next life. His character was a nice mix of hero and real boy. He knew his duty and yet, he had his moments of insecurity and rebellion as well. It made for a more realistic Nicholas.
While the story was engaging and the characters interesting, sometimes the writing, mostly the dialogue, fell a bit flat. Although the story is aimed at an older audience, the more simplistic writing style makes it perfect for younger readers in the 12 to 14 age range to cut their teeth on.
Secrets is a novel full of just that – lots and lots of secrets. As they’re slowly revealed to both the reader and Nicholas himself, you’re drawn farther and farther into this new alternate universe that is so familiar and yet very different from our own. Aside from a few issues I had with the author’s style, the novel itself was interesting and engaging and a good read for younger audiences.
November 6, 2012
There was one constant throughout this book and that was the mystery behind why Nicholas had to be kept in the background. Always hidden behind the scenes, could not invite friends over and seemed to be talented at any activity he put his mind into accomplishing. When he steps outside his aunt's comfort zone and tries out for football, it puts him in the immediate spotlight at his new school. (also one of her worst fears)
When it came down to really trying to get to know Nicholas, as I reader I became more conflicted as the story went on. By the time I finished the book there was a part of me that wished the secret wasn't left so far into the end of the book, instead brought forward into revelation earlier in the book. The shy, cowering character that Nicholas is in the majority of the book is not too attractive to me as a reader. I did like who he started to become in the end, and would have liked to see more of that.
As the story starts getting more detailed in to the mystery, the fact that Nicholas has a destiny that is beyond his control is appealing. There is a whole world out there that he has yet to discover and for me, some questions that have been left open,to be continued in the sequel I'm sure.
My favorite character was his aunt, Cora. Most likely because I am a female myself her perspective was more relatable for me. I was happy to see that she plays a major roll in the book and was a constant and developing character just as much as Nicholas is.
I do feel that this story has appeal for both boys and girls. A little sports, a little romance and most of all, the supernatural.
When it came down to really trying to get to know Nicholas, as I reader I became more conflicted as the story went on. By the time I finished the book there was a part of me that wished the secret wasn't left so far into the end of the book, instead brought forward into revelation earlier in the book. The shy, cowering character that Nicholas is in the majority of the book is not too attractive to me as a reader. I did like who he started to become in the end, and would have liked to see more of that.
As the story starts getting more detailed in to the mystery, the fact that Nicholas has a destiny that is beyond his control is appealing. There is a whole world out there that he has yet to discover and for me, some questions that have been left open,to be continued in the sequel I'm sure.
My favorite character was his aunt, Cora. Most likely because I am a female myself her perspective was more relatable for me. I was happy to see that she plays a major roll in the book and was a constant and developing character just as much as Nicholas is.
I do feel that this story has appeal for both boys and girls. A little sports, a little romance and most of all, the supernatural.
November 26, 2012
Nicholas Keller lives with his Aunt Cora, who he calls “mom”; for the past five years they’ve been moving to different towns. Cora always says to “keep a low profile” or they’ll have to move again. Nicholas wants this year to be different so he tries out for the school football team. Upon playing there’s something off… like how fast his speed is and other weird unexplainable occurrences. No one notices and just believes he’s really good at sports; he makes the JV team. His aunt said it was fine, but still warned him to not bring attention to himself. To him, things were finally looking up, but it didn’t stop there. We meet a girl name Elle, who Nicholas falls in love with at first site. She’s cute and they become a couple. Problem: Oliver. He bullies Nicholas because Nicholas is dating Elle.
Wowza! This book really keeps the reader intrigued from beginning to end! Secrets is a great name for this book, because that’s what happens through out the whole book. Something paranormal and mysterious is happening to Nicholas and he doesn’t know why; his aunt is running from something he doesn’t know about. The mystery keeps the reader flipping through the pages. There are some definite hints while reading, but it’s still very hard to figure out the ending. Some books have too many obvious clues where you end up going “Yeah. I saw that one coming”. In this book big twists happen. At the end of the book everything ties up nicely... no loose ends or questions that need answering. I recommend this book for a great paranormal, drama, romance, and mystery.
Wowza! This book really keeps the reader intrigued from beginning to end! Secrets is a great name for this book, because that’s what happens through out the whole book. Something paranormal and mysterious is happening to Nicholas and he doesn’t know why; his aunt is running from something he doesn’t know about. The mystery keeps the reader flipping through the pages. There are some definite hints while reading, but it’s still very hard to figure out the ending. Some books have too many obvious clues where you end up going “Yeah. I saw that one coming”. In this book big twists happen. At the end of the book everything ties up nicely... no loose ends or questions that need answering. I recommend this book for a great paranormal, drama, romance, and mystery.
February 11, 2013
This was a really great book to read. I enjoyed following Nicholas on the road to discovering himself. I can’t wait to see how he handles everything in the next installment. This book is fine for a younger YA group to read as well as enjoyable for adults.
The book was very suspenseful on what Nicholas was and how he ended up on the run. The book alternates between the past and present giving some hints as to why they are always moving. The only reason that I gave it 4 stars as opposed to 5 was because at times I was a little frustrated with not knowing more about what he was. However this was a minor issue and it certainly did not stop me from devouring the story.
The characters in the story were very lively, likeable and well rounded. I don’t feel like the author could have done any better writing them. The jealousy and competiveness found in the high school sounds accurate as well as the relationships and dialogues between the characters. Nicholas faced not only an insecure bully and teammate in his school but also someone wants him dead.
The romance that finds Nicholas was well written and executed and his new best friend was good for some laughs.
I found the entire plot line was unique and certainly entertaining. I hope the author continues to keep us on our toes with this series and if he chooses to write other books I will be checking those out to. I will be waiting for this book to release come October.
*I received the book free from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review.*
The book was very suspenseful on what Nicholas was and how he ended up on the run. The book alternates between the past and present giving some hints as to why they are always moving. The only reason that I gave it 4 stars as opposed to 5 was because at times I was a little frustrated with not knowing more about what he was. However this was a minor issue and it certainly did not stop me from devouring the story.
The characters in the story were very lively, likeable and well rounded. I don’t feel like the author could have done any better writing them. The jealousy and competiveness found in the high school sounds accurate as well as the relationships and dialogues between the characters. Nicholas faced not only an insecure bully and teammate in his school but also someone wants him dead.
The romance that finds Nicholas was well written and executed and his new best friend was good for some laughs.
I found the entire plot line was unique and certainly entertaining. I hope the author continues to keep us on our toes with this series and if he chooses to write other books I will be checking those out to. I will be waiting for this book to release come October.
*I received the book free from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review.*
November 19, 2014
The book is
Secrets: The Hero Chronicles by Tim Mettey
ISBN-10: 0-9885425-0-1
ISBN-13: 978-0-9885435-0-1
329 pages
Being a teenager is hard enough, but if you have to go into hiding because of something that happened so long ago what will happen when your secret is out there? Nicholas is an average teen boy struggling to just get through school, suddenly after his and Cora's (adoptive mother - Aunt) moves each year he finally starts to fit in. Fitting in can be good for most people but not for Nicholas. Nicholas does not need the attention but now it’s too late he’s out there in the public eye. He doesn’t even know his own secrets but the few he does know even he wants to keep hidden. This entire story is well written and I loved it. Most of the characters are well defined. Once you reach the end you will be wondering the same thing I am what is next for Nicholas and Elle and what if she cannot be a part of his secret that he is just learning? Where does the story go from here!
I would recommend this story to anyone that likes a good suspense story or YA fans!!
You can find this book and volumes 2 and 3 on amazon at:
http://smile.amazon.com/Tim-Mettey/e/...
Check out the first volume for free and tell me what you think!!
Secrets: The Hero Chronicles by Tim Mettey
ISBN-10: 0-9885425-0-1
ISBN-13: 978-0-9885435-0-1
329 pages
Being a teenager is hard enough, but if you have to go into hiding because of something that happened so long ago what will happen when your secret is out there? Nicholas is an average teen boy struggling to just get through school, suddenly after his and Cora's (adoptive mother - Aunt) moves each year he finally starts to fit in. Fitting in can be good for most people but not for Nicholas. Nicholas does not need the attention but now it’s too late he’s out there in the public eye. He doesn’t even know his own secrets but the few he does know even he wants to keep hidden. This entire story is well written and I loved it. Most of the characters are well defined. Once you reach the end you will be wondering the same thing I am what is next for Nicholas and Elle and what if she cannot be a part of his secret that he is just learning? Where does the story go from here!
I would recommend this story to anyone that likes a good suspense story or YA fans!!
You can find this book and volumes 2 and 3 on amazon at:
http://smile.amazon.com/Tim-Mettey/e/...
Check out the first volume for free and tell me what you think!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews