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The Flicker Effect #1
Flicker
Biz is a perfectly normal teenager except for one minor detail: she uses sunlight to jump back to yesterday. She takes advantage of flickering by retaking Trig tests, fixing fights with her boyfriend (or reliving the making up), and repeating pretty much anything that could be done better. Trouble is, flickering makes her head explode from the inside. Or feel like it anyway.
No one knows about her freakish ability and she’s content to keep it that way. Guys don’t stick around because she refuses to let them in, but all that changes when Cameron, her best friend, starts looking oh-so-yummy. Suddenly she’s noticing his biceps, his smile, and the cute way his eyes crinkle when he—gah! This is her friend!
But the butterflies come to a screeching halt when little girls start disappearing, then take a nosedive when the police link the kidnappings to Cameron’s sister, who vanished years earlier. As the police grasp for clues, Biz photographs a strange man lurking in the shadows and realizes that her flickering can help more than just herself.
No one knows about her freakish ability and she’s content to keep it that way. Guys don’t stick around because she refuses to let them in, but all that changes when Cameron, her best friend, starts looking oh-so-yummy. Suddenly she’s noticing his biceps, his smile, and the cute way his eyes crinkle when he—gah! This is her friend!
But the butterflies come to a screeching halt when little girls start disappearing, then take a nosedive when the police link the kidnappings to Cameron’s sister, who vanished years earlier. As the police grasp for clues, Biz photographs a strange man lurking in the shadows and realizes that her flickering can help more than just herself.
236 pages, Paperback
First published November 12, 2012
17 people are currently reading
873 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Hooyenga
18 books182 followersMulti-award winning young adult author Melanie Hooyenga first started writing as a teenager and finds she still relates best to that age group. She has lived in Washington DC, Chicago, and Mexico, but has finally settled down in her home state of Michigan.
When not writing books, you can find Melanie enjoying the great outdoors and playing every sport imaginable with her husband Jeremy.
**Awards**
Flicker
–> 1st Place Winner (MG/YA) of the 3rd Annual Writer's Digest Self-Published eBook Awards (2015)
The Slope Rules
–> Gold Winner (YA General Fiction) 2017, Moonbeam Children's Book Awards
–> Silver Winner (High School Romance) 2017, Children's Literary Classics
–> Bronze Winner (YA Romance) 2017, Readers' Favorite
The Trail Rules
–> Gold Winner (Special Interest: Sports) 2018, Children's Literary Classics
–> Silver Winner (YA Romance) 2018, Readers' Favorite
–> Silver Winner (YA General Fiction) 2018, Moonbeam Children's Book Awards
The Edge Rules
–> Gold Winner (Special Interest: Sports) 2019 — Children’s Literary Classics
–> Winner (YA) 2019 – Orange County RWA BBB Awards
–> Finalist / YA/MG Winner 2019 – BookLife Prize
–> Bronze Winner (YA Romance) 2019 — Readers’ Favorite
Chasing the Sun
–> Gold Winner (YA General Fiction) 2020, Moonbeam Children's Book Awards
–> Quarter-Finalist / YA/MG 2020 – BookLife Prize
When not writing books, you can find Melanie enjoying the great outdoors and playing every sport imaginable with her husband Jeremy.
**Awards**
Flicker
–> 1st Place Winner (MG/YA) of the 3rd Annual Writer's Digest Self-Published eBook Awards (2015)
The Slope Rules
–> Gold Winner (YA General Fiction) 2017, Moonbeam Children's Book Awards
–> Silver Winner (High School Romance) 2017, Children's Literary Classics
–> Bronze Winner (YA Romance) 2017, Readers' Favorite
The Trail Rules
–> Gold Winner (Special Interest: Sports) 2018, Children's Literary Classics
–> Silver Winner (YA Romance) 2018, Readers' Favorite
–> Silver Winner (YA General Fiction) 2018, Moonbeam Children's Book Awards
The Edge Rules
–> Gold Winner (Special Interest: Sports) 2019 — Children’s Literary Classics
–> Winner (YA) 2019 – Orange County RWA BBB Awards
–> Finalist / YA/MG Winner 2019 – BookLife Prize
–> Bronze Winner (YA Romance) 2019 — Readers’ Favorite
Chasing the Sun
–> Gold Winner (YA General Fiction) 2020, Moonbeam Children's Book Awards
–> Quarter-Finalist / YA/MG 2020 – BookLife Prize
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
September 12, 2014
First: I owe the author an apology. I won this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway quite some time ago, and have been putting off reading it in favor of books on my Kindle. And now I'm kind of sorry I did that, because I enjoyed it.
Flicker is about Biz, a teenage girl with an unusual talent: when she sees the right kind of flickering light, she time-travels about eighteen hours into her own past. This has pluses and minuses. Her grades are better because she can take the same test twice (and tell her friends exactly what to study for), and she can relive happy moments with her boyfriend. On the other hand, she also must endure lectures from her parents twice, as well as her father's bouts with a serious, mysterious illness. And her ability makes her feel like a freak -- so much so that she keeps it a secret from everyone.
And then she realizes she can use her talent to stop a criminal. The only catch is that she's going to have to trust someone with her secret.
The book is written in first person. Biz makes for a pleasant narrator -- not as manic as some teenage girls can be. If the reader can accept the time-travel aspects of the story, the plot is believable. And the story moves along at a nice clip -- so much so that I found myself staying up past my bedtime to finish the book.
Flicker is a YA novel. If I had to give it a rating, I'd say it's a PG. If you like YA fantasy, it's definitely worth a read.
***
Originally posted at http://hearth-myth-rursday-reads.blog...
Flicker is about Biz, a teenage girl with an unusual talent: when she sees the right kind of flickering light, she time-travels about eighteen hours into her own past. This has pluses and minuses. Her grades are better because she can take the same test twice (and tell her friends exactly what to study for), and she can relive happy moments with her boyfriend. On the other hand, she also must endure lectures from her parents twice, as well as her father's bouts with a serious, mysterious illness. And her ability makes her feel like a freak -- so much so that she keeps it a secret from everyone.
And then she realizes she can use her talent to stop a criminal. The only catch is that she's going to have to trust someone with her secret.
The book is written in first person. Biz makes for a pleasant narrator -- not as manic as some teenage girls can be. If the reader can accept the time-travel aspects of the story, the plot is believable. And the story moves along at a nice clip -- so much so that I found myself staying up past my bedtime to finish the book.
Flicker is a YA novel. If I had to give it a rating, I'd say it's a PG. If you like YA fantasy, it's definitely worth a read.
***
Originally posted at http://hearth-myth-rursday-reads.blog...
April 23, 2017
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM THE "RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS.
When I read the blurb for this book, I was immediately intrigued. Biz, a seemingly ordinary teenage girl, has a strange ability. When she is exposed to flickering light and shadows she goes back in time. Sometimes this happens whether she likes it or not.
Biz's best friend Cameron's little sister was snatched 4 years earlier, and a recent spate of young girls disappearing brings the case back up. Can Biz's ability help stop these girls from disappearing, and maybe even help find Cameron's missing sister?
This story captivated me from the start. Its not like anything I have read before, which is a huge bonus in my eyes.
I admit I did find Biz a bit annoying at times. She seemed quite self absorbed for most of the book (but then, I guess most people are!)
I loved her relationship with Cam - lots of chemistry, and very sweetly done - though it did seem a little rushed. One minute he is in the friend zone, the next she is noticing his muscles and (internally) swooning.
Despite the few flaws, this was a great read!
When I read the blurb for this book, I was immediately intrigued. Biz, a seemingly ordinary teenage girl, has a strange ability. When she is exposed to flickering light and shadows she goes back in time. Sometimes this happens whether she likes it or not.
Biz's best friend Cameron's little sister was snatched 4 years earlier, and a recent spate of young girls disappearing brings the case back up. Can Biz's ability help stop these girls from disappearing, and maybe even help find Cameron's missing sister?
This story captivated me from the start. Its not like anything I have read before, which is a huge bonus in my eyes.
I admit I did find Biz a bit annoying at times. She seemed quite self absorbed for most of the book (but then, I guess most people are!)
I loved her relationship with Cam - lots of chemistry, and very sweetly done - though it did seem a little rushed. One minute he is in the friend zone, the next she is noticing his muscles and (internally) swooning.
Despite the few flaws, this was a great read!
January 15, 2013
Have you ever made a stupid mistake? Said or done something that you wish you could take back? If you were Biz, the teenage protagonist of Flicker, you could.
In Flicker, there were many things I love. I love how her flickering not only helped her in the end in the obvious way, but how it also was responsible for her natural ability at photography. Her sensitivity to light, which is part of how she flickers, allows her to take the most beautiful photographs. If it weren't for that, she wouldn't have made the discovery that allowed her to change someone else's fate at the end of the book.
I love the realistic feeling of each character, and how each has their own flaws. Melanie Hooyenga didn't make Biz's mother a perfect angel who juggled Biz's father's epilepsy, Biz's migraines, and work seemingly without trouble. Instead, it was made clear where she fell short, but that she still does, nevertheless, try her best. With Cameron, I like how he is reserved when around others, for obvious reasons; only completely at ease around Biz. It's one of those situations that happens to everyone, albeit on different sides of the game, where it's obvious that two people like each other and should go out to everyone but themselves.
Biz's father's secret, revealed at the end was predictable for the most part, just enough that you were pretty sure about it, but leaving just enough doubt to wonder. I like the closesness that I feel it added to Biz's relationship with him.
I definetely like the ending; the whole whodunnit. That was definetely one I didn't see coming. I mean, yeah, the possibility flickered across my mind, but so did many people in the book. The thought was quickly dismissed. I think the reasoning behind it is completely realistic, though rather sad in the fact that things like that do actually happen.
I do wish that it revealed what had happened to Turner's daughter, but who knows, that could be an opening to another book, in some way. And the sad truth is, for so many cases they never do find out what happened. Another case of realistivity that adds that touch of sadness. It makes sure that you don't forget, not all of this is fake. Stuff like this really does happen every day. And often there isn't anyone to help them.
All in all, I think Flicker was a really good book. I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy, mystery, or anything resembling the lifetime channel on TV.
In Flicker, there were many things I love. I love how her flickering not only helped her in the end in the obvious way, but how it also was responsible for her natural ability at photography. Her sensitivity to light, which is part of how she flickers, allows her to take the most beautiful photographs. If it weren't for that, she wouldn't have made the discovery that allowed her to change someone else's fate at the end of the book.
I love the realistic feeling of each character, and how each has their own flaws. Melanie Hooyenga didn't make Biz's mother a perfect angel who juggled Biz's father's epilepsy, Biz's migraines, and work seemingly without trouble. Instead, it was made clear where she fell short, but that she still does, nevertheless, try her best. With Cameron, I like how he is reserved when around others, for obvious reasons; only completely at ease around Biz. It's one of those situations that happens to everyone, albeit on different sides of the game, where it's obvious that two people like each other and should go out to everyone but themselves.
Biz's father's secret, revealed at the end was predictable for the most part, just enough that you were pretty sure about it, but leaving just enough doubt to wonder. I like the closesness that I feel it added to Biz's relationship with him.
I definetely like the ending; the whole whodunnit. That was definetely one I didn't see coming. I mean, yeah, the possibility flickered across my mind, but so did many people in the book. The thought was quickly dismissed. I think the reasoning behind it is completely realistic, though rather sad in the fact that things like that do actually happen.
I do wish that it revealed what had happened to Turner's daughter, but who knows, that could be an opening to another book, in some way. And the sad truth is, for so many cases they never do find out what happened. Another case of realistivity that adds that touch of sadness. It makes sure that you don't forget, not all of this is fake. Stuff like this really does happen every day. And often there isn't anyone to help them.
All in all, I think Flicker was a really good book. I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy, mystery, or anything resembling the lifetime channel on TV.
October 5, 2015
I enjoyed Flicker! I think this book has two particularly strong qualities going for it: First, the unique concept of a medical condition bestowing the ability to time-travel, and second, the strength of the characters, all of whom land on the pages very well-imagined. I found Biz to be a likable character and completely believable as an adolescent (for example, the way she nonverbally dodges Robbie rather than talk to him directly). She shows a certain maturity (or perhaps protectiveness) in her relationships with her parents that I could see coming out of the role illness plays in the family, but for the most part, she lives in a somewhat self-involved perception bubble like most teens do. Since Biz is also the narrator, that means the reader only sees what Biz sees, which can create some tension for an older reader like myself who wants to see beyond her. But that focus is probably just right for the target audience. I had a technical question about flickering that the book did not answer (what happens to the car Biz is driving when she flickers back to an earlier point in time?), but this didn’t interfere with my enjoyment of the book. Since Flicker is the first in a series, I was okay with the possibility that the reader may learn more about flickering in later books. Hooyenga has a strong authorial hand and her characters compelled me to keep reading, sometimes later into the night than I should have.
December 13, 2012
WOW! Ok, lets start by I had never heard of this book or the author. I entered the contest that was on here to win the book. Then I won! My first GoodReads contest and I won! I was so excited. Then I got more excited when I got the book. Well I just finished it tonight and all I can say is when can I get FRACTURE!
Biz is an amazing character. I honestly thought this would be like any other young adult book I have read, and I have read plenty being a middle school teacher. It isn't. Don't let it fool you. Biz flickers. She can go back in time. But in the mean time there is more going on besides Biz flickering. Biz's Dad is ill. Add to it Biz's love life is kinda crazy. She can't maintain one and then when she realizes the guy who is really meant for her has been in front of her face the entire time! Add to it these kids are disappearing and killer migraines. The action doesn't stop. I LOVED this book.
I am so happy that I entered that contest and I got to be exposed to this author and her young adult novel. I will anxiously await the arrival of Fracture! Thank you Melanie Hooyenga! I am definitely a fan!
Biz is an amazing character. I honestly thought this would be like any other young adult book I have read, and I have read plenty being a middle school teacher. It isn't. Don't let it fool you. Biz flickers. She can go back in time. But in the mean time there is more going on besides Biz flickering. Biz's Dad is ill. Add to it Biz's love life is kinda crazy. She can't maintain one and then when she realizes the guy who is really meant for her has been in front of her face the entire time! Add to it these kids are disappearing and killer migraines. The action doesn't stop. I LOVED this book.
I am so happy that I entered that contest and I got to be exposed to this author and her young adult novel. I will anxiously await the arrival of Fracture! Thank you Melanie Hooyenga! I am definitely a fan!
June 27, 2013
Once I started FLICKER I wanted to make a cup of tea and find somewhere to disappear with the book until I was finished. Obligations kept me from being able to do that but I did finish it about 48 hours later. So glad I purchased this new book by Melanie Hooyenga!
This book is well written and keeps you wanting more. Melanie does a great job with each character. Biz, her parents, Cameron, Amelia, Mr. Turner...just add this book to your to-read list and don't wait too long to start it.
Can't wait to hear more about the release of FRACTURE! I'll be grabbing a copy for sure!
This book is well written and keeps you wanting more. Melanie does a great job with each character. Biz, her parents, Cameron, Amelia, Mr. Turner...just add this book to your to-read list and don't wait too long to start it.
Can't wait to hear more about the release of FRACTURE! I'll be grabbing a copy for sure!
November 5, 2012
I was absolutely thrilled at the chance to read this book before its launch. I don’t use the term “couldn’t put it down” lightly. This was a truly unique concept, and that is not easy to come by these days. I loved the “down to earth” and truly real personalities of the characters in all their teenage glory! Every chapter left you wanting more and the end of the book made you want a sequel. This certainly made me a lover of YA! I can’t wait to see what Melanie has in store for us next!
May 9, 2013
Books for the young adult audience have always had their own charm and adult fans, but recently it seems that many have taken off and found mainstream success that goes far beyond a teen audience. The next one to do that may just be Flicker by Melanie Hooyenga.
Heroine Biz is an average high schooler. She has a great best friend, she sometimes struggles with her grades and she’s just starting a relationship with a boy who is her lifelong friend. Her Dad suffers from what everyone calls epilepsy, but otherwise, life is pretty normal.
Except for one thing. Biz can use the sunlight to go back in time 18 hours. It’s just enough time to fix an argument with a friend, cheat on a test or relive a great moment. The consequences are horrible headaches and it often happens without her wanting it to, but she lives with the ‘power’ and takes advantage of it when she can.
But when someone starts kidnapping young girls in her town, Biz begins to wonder if her power can do more than just help her on math tests. Could she really do something amazing? And will she survive it if she tries?
Biz is a likeable character with enough conflict about her powers to make her utterly believable. Most teens feel different… she really is and Hooyenga does an admirable job with the wonder and horror that comes with a young woman both embracing and rejecting who she is. The secondary cast of characters is also really great and there’s a twist at the end that will have readers breathless.
There is some minor sexuality and one scene of underage drinking, but nothing that should turn anyone away. All in all, it’s a terrific book for adults and their teens and I give it a highly recommended 4.5 stars.
December 6, 2016
SPOILERS! This book was a real page turner! I read it in less than two days because I enjoyed the story so much! It is very well written, I didn’t have any problems understanding what’s going on and Melanie Hooyengas writing is fluently and descriptive. I felt like I could relate to the main character Biz, which I think is something very important. Even though she has the ability to flicker (when the sunlight flickers she can go back in time), she felt like a completely normal person with problems like anyone else.
The part about the kidnapping adds a different strand to the story and especially that was the reason I couldn’t put this book down. You always expect something horrible to happen, you wait for the kidnapper to turn up behind Biz and this creates so much tension. But it’s not like I knew in advance what would happen. When he really turned up I didn’t expect it and above all I didn’t suspect Turner!
I started thinking about things I would change if I could flicker and go back in time. This would be great because I always feel like time goes by very fast and I would relive certain moments that I enjoyed really much, like Biz did.
Conclusion: I loved this book and I can't wait for the other books in this series! For me this is definitely worth five stars!
The part about the kidnapping adds a different strand to the story and especially that was the reason I couldn’t put this book down. You always expect something horrible to happen, you wait for the kidnapper to turn up behind Biz and this creates so much tension. But it’s not like I knew in advance what would happen. When he really turned up I didn’t expect it and above all I didn’t suspect Turner!
I started thinking about things I would change if I could flicker and go back in time. This would be great because I always feel like time goes by very fast and I would relive certain moments that I enjoyed really much, like Biz did.
Conclusion: I loved this book and I can't wait for the other books in this series! For me this is definitely worth five stars!
May 4, 2017
I've read my share of books involving time-travel, but I've never read one quite like this. (Yes, that's a compliment).
Biz is a typical high-school girl with one rather unique quirk. When exposed to sunlight in a particular way, she "flickers", causing her to travel back in time 18 hours and relive that period of time. Up until now, she's used her power purely for selfish reasons, re-taking tests and enjoying fun moments for a second time. Of course, the drawback to her condition is that it causes her terrible headaches, and many of her classmates look at her as kind of an oddball.
She discovers, because of her affinity for light, a love for photography. Using this talent, she accidentally takes a picture of a mysterious figure who may or may not be responsible for the disappearance of a young girl. What makes this hit close to home is that her BFF-turned-actual-BF, Cameron, lost his sister several years before to a kidnapper and has blamed himself ever since.
The plot builds to a thrilling conclusion in a way that I pretty much expected. I still enjoyed it, though, because it was well-written. Though I wasn't overly fond of Biz at times, I look forward to getting to know her better in future books.
Biz is a typical high-school girl with one rather unique quirk. When exposed to sunlight in a particular way, she "flickers", causing her to travel back in time 18 hours and relive that period of time. Up until now, she's used her power purely for selfish reasons, re-taking tests and enjoying fun moments for a second time. Of course, the drawback to her condition is that it causes her terrible headaches, and many of her classmates look at her as kind of an oddball.
She discovers, because of her affinity for light, a love for photography. Using this talent, she accidentally takes a picture of a mysterious figure who may or may not be responsible for the disappearance of a young girl. What makes this hit close to home is that her BFF-turned-actual-BF, Cameron, lost his sister several years before to a kidnapper and has blamed himself ever since.
The plot builds to a thrilling conclusion in a way that I pretty much expected. I still enjoyed it, though, because it was well-written. Though I wasn't overly fond of Biz at times, I look forward to getting to know her better in future books.
December 7, 2012
Have you ever read a book that you enjoyed enough that you wished you could go back and re-read it, but you just don’t have the time? Well, if you were Biz, the young, plucky, main character from this YA novel, you could do it.
Biz has discovered that she has the ability to flicker. When the lighting is just right, she goes back in time. Just 18 hours. She’s not sure why she goes back 18 hours, but that’s the way it works. She also suffers from horrible migraines because of it. But sometimes it’s worth a headache to go back a relieve a really good date, or have a 2nd shot at a test.
The people around Biz seems to suspect something. Her father and her friend Cam, most of all. Cameron is the boy that she’s been friends with for so long, that it’s hard for her to believe that she’s now dating him.
But things aren’t all rosy. Kids have been disappearing. Just like what happened to Cameron’s sister years ago. Will Biz be able to use her ability to do more than keep up her GPA?
Read it to find out.
Then read it again.
Biz has discovered that she has the ability to flicker. When the lighting is just right, she goes back in time. Just 18 hours. She’s not sure why she goes back 18 hours, but that’s the way it works. She also suffers from horrible migraines because of it. But sometimes it’s worth a headache to go back a relieve a really good date, or have a 2nd shot at a test.
The people around Biz seems to suspect something. Her father and her friend Cam, most of all. Cameron is the boy that she’s been friends with for so long, that it’s hard for her to believe that she’s now dating him.
But things aren’t all rosy. Kids have been disappearing. Just like what happened to Cameron’s sister years ago. Will Biz be able to use her ability to do more than keep up her GPA?
Read it to find out.
Then read it again.
February 25, 2013
'Flicker' is a highly original tale. The story moves at a quick pace as you're drawn into Biz's world right from the first page, and an intriguing world at that. One that blends paranormal elements seamlessly into everyday life, before taking you into the depths of a mystery with an unexpected climax. Above all, Biz's thoughts and experiences shine through on each page, giving her character an authenticity that will connect you with the story and her life. Also, the author honors her readers by wrapping up loose ends before teasing with what's to come in the sequel 'Fracture.' Overall, 'Flicker' is a fantastic YA novel.
February 14, 2015
I'll admit, I'm a little old for YA fiction, but I looove it! Flicker was such a great read, I was pulled in from the beginning and grew to really care about the main character, Biz. The premise is something different from anything I've read before, which I enjoyed. I'm very excited to know that this will be a trilogy because the ending left me wanting more. While I don't have the ability to go back in time, I did find that I could relate to Biz and her friends. I felt as if I were back in high school again as she deals with the typical teenage problems. Looking forward to reading more from this author!
March 4, 2014
I really enjoyed this book even though it was a young adult book. It kept me wanting to pick it up to read and see what happens. Excited to see that there will be a followup book in the future. Of course, it doesn't hurt that I personally know the author and am so proud of her and her first published book! Her own imagination and humor really come through the main character. Nicely done, Mel!! Congrats!
November 5, 2012
Hooyenga's FLICKER had me on the edge of my seat! A great who-done-it for YA fans, it had me guessing until the very end. Hooyenga had me (and my teenage daughter who loves this book) eyeing the shadows between trees a bit differently after reading FLICKER, it stays with you long after the last page.
December 24, 2015
loved this book!!!
I was sucked into the story right away and I couldn't put it down until I had finished!
(and then immediately started reading the 2nd book in this series because I just had to know what was going to happen next!!!)
I was sucked into the story right away and I couldn't put it down until I had finished!
(and then immediately started reading the 2nd book in this series because I just had to know what was going to happen next!!!)
Read
February 15, 2016I really liked Flicker, the book proved lots of good sentences. I really like how they shows lots of emotions. I kinda was confused on how the book started so i had to go back lots and re-read that's why it takes me so long to read a book. I understand mostly every moment that was happening.
March 25, 2016
I thought this book had a unique concept to it. I think the characters are very interesting and each have complex personalities. The ending was really unexpected and I loved it! I am definitely excited for the next book.
January 30, 2013
SO GOOD! holy cow. at first I thought it was going to be predictable and average.. which some parts were predictable.. but the main part I didn't see coming. it was insanely awesome.
March 27, 2013
Love, love, love this book!! A truly great read!!
November 5, 2013
I was sucked in immediately! I wish I had read this book slower because now I have to wait for the sequel -can't wait!
June 27, 2017
'Flicker' by Melanie Hooyenga is a very gripping novel. The concept behind it - that the main character, Biz, has the ability to go back in time eighteen hours if she so chooses - is quite intriguing. Biz's ability, which she refers to as "flickering," has never really been used by her for anything other than reliving good days in her life, doing better on tests she takes, and other reasons in which any teenager might find interest.
With both contemporary and supernatural elements mixed in, 'Flicker' shows how anyone can have abilities beyond the grasp of the average individual. Biz doesn't fully understand why she is able to flicker, but she welcomes it, despite the ravaging headaches she gets as a result. Coupled with her dad's epileptic tendencies and her mother's persistent worry, she always seems to have a lot on her mind, especially if it's happened twice. It was refreshing to see her parents so involved and caring since many parents in young adult novels tend to be pushed to the sidelines. Biz knows that she should be grateful for their insistence on being part of her life, but, just like any average teenager, she does her best to discourage their involvement, mostly by keeping her flickering from them.
It was nice to see a main character in a book enjoy a subject other than English, even though it's always nice when they enjoy literature and writing. Biz's love of photography propels much of the storyline, and her teacher, Mr. Turner, instills even more engagement in her photography skills as the story progresses, which ends up being quite ironic. Between Biz's headaches from her flickering and people's questions as to why she acts the way she does, she finds it hard to know whom she can trust, especially as her photographs begin to raise questions. This makes it hard for her to connect with others as much as she'd like, including her best friends, Amelia and Cameron, the latter of whom grows into more than a friend fairly quickly once the novel begins. Her friendships with these two show how, even though Biz is sympathetic to their plights - Amelia's being that she wants to get closer to a guy she likes, and Cameron's being much more involved - his sister went missing several years ago and he's always been looked at as a suspect - she also is unwilling to let them be sympathetic to hers. In some ways this shows strength of character - that she can stand on her own two feet. In other ways, it's nice to have people in your corner, and she should have been able to trust those with whom she is closest, including her parents.
There were a few areas I would have loved to read more about, but maybe Hooyenga will get to them more in 'Fracture,' this book's sequel. Amelia's relationship with the guy she likes was written in quickly, and it would have been nice to see it all connect in a more meaningful way than Biz just enjoying the fact that she and Amelia had relationships at the same time. A man who is on the bleachers at the games Biz takes photographs at is one point that is resolved near the end of the novel, but further explanation of his actions whenever Biz saw him would have been a welcome addition. It is understandable to pique curiosity as to whom he is, but having him share his involvement near the end would have been helpful. Finally, Cameron's sister Katie's story and more about the leads the police department had on her kidnapping as well as the others that took place over the course of the novel would have been nice. Several years elapsed between Katie's kidnapping and the ones that were occurring in the present day of the novel, so some reasoning as to their starting up again could have been explored further as well. The ending came quickly, and some might worry that the story won't resolve in time. It did, but the climax could have come a bit earlier to leave more time for some of these more extended answers to be included.
'Flicker' comes highly recommended for those who love contemporary fiction, romance, time travel, and a fast, thrilling read.
*Review originally posted on YABooksCentral.com*
Beth Rodgers, Author of 'Freshman Fourteen' and 'Sweet Fifteen,' Young Adult Novels
With both contemporary and supernatural elements mixed in, 'Flicker' shows how anyone can have abilities beyond the grasp of the average individual. Biz doesn't fully understand why she is able to flicker, but she welcomes it, despite the ravaging headaches she gets as a result. Coupled with her dad's epileptic tendencies and her mother's persistent worry, she always seems to have a lot on her mind, especially if it's happened twice. It was refreshing to see her parents so involved and caring since many parents in young adult novels tend to be pushed to the sidelines. Biz knows that she should be grateful for their insistence on being part of her life, but, just like any average teenager, she does her best to discourage their involvement, mostly by keeping her flickering from them.
It was nice to see a main character in a book enjoy a subject other than English, even though it's always nice when they enjoy literature and writing. Biz's love of photography propels much of the storyline, and her teacher, Mr. Turner, instills even more engagement in her photography skills as the story progresses, which ends up being quite ironic. Between Biz's headaches from her flickering and people's questions as to why she acts the way she does, she finds it hard to know whom she can trust, especially as her photographs begin to raise questions. This makes it hard for her to connect with others as much as she'd like, including her best friends, Amelia and Cameron, the latter of whom grows into more than a friend fairly quickly once the novel begins. Her friendships with these two show how, even though Biz is sympathetic to their plights - Amelia's being that she wants to get closer to a guy she likes, and Cameron's being much more involved - his sister went missing several years ago and he's always been looked at as a suspect - she also is unwilling to let them be sympathetic to hers. In some ways this shows strength of character - that she can stand on her own two feet. In other ways, it's nice to have people in your corner, and she should have been able to trust those with whom she is closest, including her parents.
There were a few areas I would have loved to read more about, but maybe Hooyenga will get to them more in 'Fracture,' this book's sequel. Amelia's relationship with the guy she likes was written in quickly, and it would have been nice to see it all connect in a more meaningful way than Biz just enjoying the fact that she and Amelia had relationships at the same time. A man who is on the bleachers at the games Biz takes photographs at is one point that is resolved near the end of the novel, but further explanation of his actions whenever Biz saw him would have been a welcome addition. It is understandable to pique curiosity as to whom he is, but having him share his involvement near the end would have been helpful. Finally, Cameron's sister Katie's story and more about the leads the police department had on her kidnapping as well as the others that took place over the course of the novel would have been nice. Several years elapsed between Katie's kidnapping and the ones that were occurring in the present day of the novel, so some reasoning as to their starting up again could have been explored further as well. The ending came quickly, and some might worry that the story won't resolve in time. It did, but the climax could have come a bit earlier to leave more time for some of these more extended answers to be included.
'Flicker' comes highly recommended for those who love contemporary fiction, romance, time travel, and a fast, thrilling read.
*Review originally posted on YABooksCentral.com*
Beth Rodgers, Author of 'Freshman Fourteen' and 'Sweet Fifteen,' Young Adult Novels
May 8, 2017
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM THE "RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS.
First of all I would like to thank the author and Rachel for the opportunity to review this book. I really liked it!
All in all this was a nice read. Though there were a few parts which I didn't like mostly in the beginning, the ending made up for it.
I think I'll first list the negatives...
I didn't like the protagonist at all. At least in the first two thirds. She was bitchy and whiney and all in all unlikeable. She said things that were so far from okay and then wondered herself why she said it. The part where this was most prominent was when
This brings me to the next point, Cam, her best friend is a complete ass to her and I have no clue why they are even friends. At one point
The next thing I had a problem with was the romance. It was just out of nowhere and made Biz look even more of a bitch then she looked like before. Also the relationship was nowhere near healthy in the first part of the book. Granted it gets better near the end, but still... It rubbed me the wrong way.
I also didn't like how much the story was stretched. I don't know how many similar descriptions of days I read. School and classes. Also the side story about Trig, was not important at all and had nothing to do with the plot. It was just boring to read through those parts.
Now to the things I loved, and I really really really loved those parts.
The migraine. Finally a book where I can relate to the migraines. I hate when a character says she/he has a migraine and then ends up jumping over rooftops and stuff. At least Biz had migraines that where actually migraines. The fact that I related so much to those headaches and the vomiting may not be a good sign for my health, but it was a nice change, to read something like this.
The ending. I loved the last few chapters. They were fast paced and thrilling and a rollercoaster ride that made up for the boring beginning and middle. The ending was a dream come true.
The photography aspect. I really liked the way the pictures and the process was described. I don't like taking pictures myself, but this book made me consider doing it more often. It just motivated me, kind of.
All in all I would recommend this book, mostly if you have headaches of some kind or another and would like to read about a character you can relate to and you don't mind a rambling beginning, which you will have to battle through.
First of all I would like to thank the author and Rachel for the opportunity to review this book. I really liked it!
All in all this was a nice read. Though there were a few parts which I didn't like mostly in the beginning, the ending made up for it.
I think I'll first list the negatives...
I didn't like the protagonist at all. At least in the first two thirds. She was bitchy and whiney and all in all unlikeable. She said things that were so far from okay and then wondered herself why she said it. The part where this was most prominent was when
This brings me to the next point, Cam, her best friend is a complete ass to her and I have no clue why they are even friends. At one point
The next thing I had a problem with was the romance. It was just out of nowhere and made Biz look even more of a bitch then she looked like before. Also the relationship was nowhere near healthy in the first part of the book. Granted it gets better near the end, but still... It rubbed me the wrong way.
I also didn't like how much the story was stretched. I don't know how many similar descriptions of days I read. School and classes. Also the side story about Trig, was not important at all and had nothing to do with the plot. It was just boring to read through those parts.
Now to the things I loved, and I really really really loved those parts.
The migraine. Finally a book where I can relate to the migraines. I hate when a character says she/he has a migraine and then ends up jumping over rooftops and stuff. At least Biz had migraines that where actually migraines. The fact that I related so much to those headaches and the vomiting may not be a good sign for my health, but it was a nice change, to read something like this.
The ending. I loved the last few chapters. They were fast paced and thrilling and a rollercoaster ride that made up for the boring beginning and middle. The ending was a dream come true.
The photography aspect. I really liked the way the pictures and the process was described. I don't like taking pictures myself, but this book made me consider doing it more often. It just motivated me, kind of.
All in all I would recommend this book, mostly if you have headaches of some kind or another and would like to read about a character you can relate to and you don't mind a rambling beginning, which you will have to battle through.
May 5, 2017
"I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM THE "RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS."
Biz is a perfectly normal teenager except for the fact that she can use sunlight to "flicker" and jump back to yesterday. She uses it to retake trig tests that she didn't do well on, fix fights with her boyfriend, or relive particularly good dates. The only drawback is that flickering makes her head feel like it's going to explode from the inside. She's managed to keep this ability to herself even though this puts a serious damper on her dating life. Guys don't really stick around for too long because she won't let them too close since she can't risk them figuring out her secret. Then she starts dating her friend Cameron, and starts wondering if things could be different. All of a sudden she's getting butterflies like she's never gotten over any guy over her best friend! But all of a sudden little girls in the area are being kidnapped and the kidnappings are linked to Cameron's sister, who disappeared years earlier. As the police search for clues, Biz photographs a man in the shadows and begins to think that she might be able to use her flickering to help more than herself. Maybe she can figure out what's happening to these girls.
When I was offered the chance to read this book, I was intrigued. The concept was unique and I was glad to be one of the ones chosen to read and review. It's definitely well written and kept my attention all the way through. I enjoyed all of the characters but particularly the relationships between Biz and Amelia, Biz and Cameron, and Biz and her dad. I even stayed up late last night because I couldn't bear to stop reading! Great work, Melanie, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
Biz is a perfectly normal teenager except for the fact that she can use sunlight to "flicker" and jump back to yesterday. She uses it to retake trig tests that she didn't do well on, fix fights with her boyfriend, or relive particularly good dates. The only drawback is that flickering makes her head feel like it's going to explode from the inside. She's managed to keep this ability to herself even though this puts a serious damper on her dating life. Guys don't really stick around for too long because she won't let them too close since she can't risk them figuring out her secret. Then she starts dating her friend Cameron, and starts wondering if things could be different. All of a sudden she's getting butterflies like she's never gotten over any guy over her best friend! But all of a sudden little girls in the area are being kidnapped and the kidnappings are linked to Cameron's sister, who disappeared years earlier. As the police search for clues, Biz photographs a man in the shadows and begins to think that she might be able to use her flickering to help more than herself. Maybe she can figure out what's happening to these girls.
When I was offered the chance to read this book, I was intrigued. The concept was unique and I was glad to be one of the ones chosen to read and review. It's definitely well written and kept my attention all the way through. I enjoyed all of the characters but particularly the relationships between Biz and Amelia, Biz and Cameron, and Biz and her dad. I even stayed up late last night because I couldn't bear to stop reading! Great work, Melanie, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
May 7, 2017
"I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM THE "RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS."
This was a fast and easy read, with deep likable characters and more plot depth and I have read recently in my read and review copies.
Biz seems like an ordinary teenager, except she can do something called flickering which means she can travel back in time 18 hours and relive her life again. The problem with this? She gets excruciating headaches/migraines every time she flickers, and she is very sensitive to light, the right kind of flickering (most often a stretch of road near her house with very straight trees) can make her flicker even if she doesn't want to.
Meanwhile her dad's epilepsy is getting worse. And her parents are starting to worry about her. There is someone snatching little girls from the playground again, just like what happened 4 years ago to her best friend Cam's little sister.
As Biz learns more about herself, and how the flickering really works she puts herself in more danger, setting up for a climatic finish.
I really enjoyed this book and would read the others in this series. Highly recommend for a fast pace YA sci-fi but more contemporary fiction book.
This was a fast and easy read, with deep likable characters and more plot depth and I have read recently in my read and review copies.
Biz seems like an ordinary teenager, except she can do something called flickering which means she can travel back in time 18 hours and relive her life again. The problem with this? She gets excruciating headaches/migraines every time she flickers, and she is very sensitive to light, the right kind of flickering (most often a stretch of road near her house with very straight trees) can make her flicker even if she doesn't want to.
Meanwhile her dad's epilepsy is getting worse. And her parents are starting to worry about her. There is someone snatching little girls from the playground again, just like what happened 4 years ago to her best friend Cam's little sister.
As Biz learns more about herself, and how the flickering really works she puts herself in more danger, setting up for a climatic finish.
I really enjoyed this book and would read the others in this series. Highly recommend for a fast pace YA sci-fi but more contemporary fiction book.
May 16, 2017
"I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS"
I have finally finished this book and I must say... ITS BETTER THAN I EXPECTED!!!!!
This has been one of the most interesting and fun storyline's I have ever read despite the hint of darkness to it. Melanie Hooyenga has portrayed Biz in an amazing way and has created the best character for this story.
This is not the first timetravelling story I have read but this has been one of the more original ones. The way Melanie Hooyenga has approached the timetravelling aspect to this story is original and interesting.
I was hooked the entire time I was reading it and I basically couldn't put it down! While the story was actually a little more on the dark side I think the twist at the end and the problem which the characters faced suited the story phenomenally.
I hope to read more of Melanie Hooyenga's books and explore her writing style more.
I have finally finished this book and I must say... ITS BETTER THAN I EXPECTED!!!!!
This has been one of the most interesting and fun storyline's I have ever read despite the hint of darkness to it. Melanie Hooyenga has portrayed Biz in an amazing way and has created the best character for this story.
This is not the first timetravelling story I have read but this has been one of the more original ones. The way Melanie Hooyenga has approached the timetravelling aspect to this story is original and interesting.
I was hooked the entire time I was reading it and I basically couldn't put it down! While the story was actually a little more on the dark side I think the twist at the end and the problem which the characters faced suited the story phenomenally.
I hope to read more of Melanie Hooyenga's books and explore her writing style more.
November 14, 2017
This book was about a girl who has the ability to go back in time, up to 18 hours. She uses her powers for things like reliving perfect dates or redoing tests she did bad on. In the story, random kids start disappearing. She is faced with the opportunity to solve it, but it could cause her power to go away. Does she help or does she just let it happen?
I liked this book because it was like a normal teenagers life, with a little bit a twist. I like the fact that there is romance mixed in with the action. I also like how it ends because it is a happy ending and she finally got to tell people about what was going on and she could relate with her dad and let him in, open up to him.
I liked this book because it was like a normal teenagers life, with a little bit a twist. I like the fact that there is romance mixed in with the action. I also like how it ends because it is a happy ending and she finally got to tell people about what was going on and she could relate with her dad and let him in, open up to him.
May 4, 2017
"I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM THE "RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS."
When I read the description for the book I was very excited to dive right in. I'm not usually into mysteryish books, but I'm a sucker for anything remotely romantic. The book was very fast paced but I enjoyed every bit it. I was intrigued to find out that it is a series as I thought that the ending was tied up in bow. Not quite sure as I would continue the series as I was perfectly fine with how it ended.
Overall a good book.
When I read the description for the book I was very excited to dive right in. I'm not usually into mysteryish books, but I'm a sucker for anything remotely romantic. The book was very fast paced but I enjoyed every bit it. I was intrigued to find out that it is a series as I thought that the ending was tied up in bow. Not quite sure as I would continue the series as I was perfectly fine with how it ended.
Overall a good book.
January 12, 2020
I was recommended this book by a family member and really enjoyed it. I was even more excited to find out it was a trilogy and the story didn't stop at the end of one book. The characters felt believable and relatable, especially Cam. I would recommend it to anybody who likes a good mystery book with a little sci-fi spin. The only thing I didn't really like about it was the lack of description of settings. Other than that I really enjoyed following the mystery the book provided and seeing Biz find out more about her ability.
February 7, 2025
I picked the perfect time to read this series because it helped keep me distracted while I was in hospital myself. Hooyenga has knocked this one outta the park. Biz and her ability pull you in and allow you to get lost in the twists and turns of the story. I adored the romance and mystery element, and she brings it all together to allow you to get hooked on her words, as well as desperate to know more. I’ve already picked up book two because I need to know what lies ahead for Biz and everyone else involved. An amazing start to a series and one I very much recommend!
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