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Aura
What if the greatest weapon in the age-old war between good and evil was inside of you?
Crystal Scott has always felt different but tried hard to blend in. Now that she's scored the lead in the school play, has a boyfriend she adores, and a best friend she can't live without, she finally feels like she belongs.
A few days before prom, a mysterious young man appears and suddenly she has to figure out how to use the weapon of Light she has inside her or mankind is doomed.
Demons are determined to tip the war in their favor no matter what the cost and they're hot on Crystal's trail. With danger around every corner, she doesn't know if she can save herself, never mind anyone else. When things look darkest and there's nowhere to turn, Crystal must find the strength to use her newfound gifts against the tide of evil threatening all of them--or die trying.
Crystal Scott has always felt different but tried hard to blend in. Now that she's scored the lead in the school play, has a boyfriend she adores, and a best friend she can't live without, she finally feels like she belongs.
A few days before prom, a mysterious young man appears and suddenly she has to figure out how to use the weapon of Light she has inside her or mankind is doomed.
Demons are determined to tip the war in their favor no matter what the cost and they're hot on Crystal's trail. With danger around every corner, she doesn't know if she can save herself, never mind anyone else. When things look darkest and there's nowhere to turn, Crystal must find the strength to use her newfound gifts against the tide of evil threatening all of them--or die trying.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2012
2 people are currently reading
714 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Talley
23 books180 followersI was born and raised in California and now live in rural Colorado on a small ranch with my husband, 7 of my 10 kids, a dog, cats, a spoiled horse, and a herd of goats.
I am the author of a children's picture book, "Grasshopper Pie" (WindRiver 2003), and three novels, "Heaven Scent" (Cedar Fort 2008), "Altared Plans" (Cedar Fort 2009), and "The Upside of Down" (Cedar Fort 2011)and numerous children's magazine stories and articles. I am also a blogger.
Besides writing and reading, I love to date my husband, play with my kids, swim in the ocean, and dance to disco music while I clean the house. Someday, I hope to tame the wild laundry monster.
I am the author of a children's picture book, "Grasshopper Pie" (WindRiver 2003), and three novels, "Heaven Scent" (Cedar Fort 2008), "Altared Plans" (Cedar Fort 2009), and "The Upside of Down" (Cedar Fort 2011)and numerous children's magazine stories and articles. I am also a blogger.
Besides writing and reading, I love to date my husband, play with my kids, swim in the ocean, and dance to disco music while I clean the house. Someday, I hope to tame the wild laundry monster.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 16, 2013
A very good read for teen girls. I liked the message in it. There was a little violence—it's paranormal so you have to expect that. Planning to do a full review on my blog at some point, but wanted to give it a thumbs up here right away.
See full review: http://bit.ly/YDgxZN
See full review: http://bit.ly/YDgxZN
March 10, 2013
"Nothing out of the ordinary—but nothing was as it seemed. Never would be again."
This quote fits very well with Aura by Rebecca Lynn Talley. It seems that the plot has nothing special, all in the line of eternal struggle between good and evil, still an uncertain relationship(s) and a maturity or evolving forced by circumstances. But "as nothing was as it seemed", as the book today because it's a very special and good book.
Important and admirable is how the heroine succeed, although she has numerous occasions that could give her the right to give up to what she is (and without any reproach made to her), to preserve hers purity and not to concede to "the end justifies the means". No matter how good and great it’s the goal, is also important how it’s fulfill. There are times when giving up to a part of who you are for an easy success seems so normal and to have an insignificant price, but in reality that can change everything and not for the better. Crystal has the strength to remain good and not to be corrupted by the power. It's clever, resourceful and has a special talent to enter into troubles, though she’s not seeking for them... always. What could be more appealing?
"We're all born with Light. As we make choices, that Light either gets brighter, or it dims. It depends on what we choose to do with our lives. You've made a conscious decision to follow the good over and over again, enough that your Light—your aura—is so bright that it glows."
I like Crystal and Alec's relationship, how it evolves (or not), how the questions remain unspoken or unanswered and the fact that the real reason wherefore he wants to protect her at any cost remains hidden still.
„I didn’t know how things would turn out between Alec and me, but I was willing to find out. Willing to take a chance and see what happened. Willing to trust him with my life. And my heart.”
Admirable is how the author send messages to the young readers (or not so younger) and how she highlights that anywhere and anyone around us can be a temptation, a reason to go wrong, but ultimately ourselves are the ones who make decisions and act.
„Truth is, demons are all around us, waiting to be invited in. As long as we don't let them in, we're okay, but once they get an invitation, they want to stay forever.”
Desire for revenge, for the salvation, the need to accept what you are and what you want, bearing the consequences, hope and despair come together beautifully and harmoniously.
Perhaps the book is not pack with pure action and is a little predictable at times, but rest assured that it caught my attention and I read it with pleasure and devoured it. Everything runs so smooth that you do not realize when you get to the latest events.
Surely I recommend it to you and, if until now you thought that vampires, werewolves, angels or fallen angels, or demons are elements of the stories, you’ll find now that at least the demons can be in any of us. Really!
"You have no idea who you are dealing with."
This quote fits very well with Aura by Rebecca Lynn Talley. It seems that the plot has nothing special, all in the line of eternal struggle between good and evil, still an uncertain relationship(s) and a maturity or evolving forced by circumstances. But "as nothing was as it seemed", as the book today because it's a very special and good book.
Important and admirable is how the heroine succeed, although she has numerous occasions that could give her the right to give up to what she is (and without any reproach made to her), to preserve hers purity and not to concede to "the end justifies the means". No matter how good and great it’s the goal, is also important how it’s fulfill. There are times when giving up to a part of who you are for an easy success seems so normal and to have an insignificant price, but in reality that can change everything and not for the better. Crystal has the strength to remain good and not to be corrupted by the power. It's clever, resourceful and has a special talent to enter into troubles, though she’s not seeking for them... always. What could be more appealing?
"We're all born with Light. As we make choices, that Light either gets brighter, or it dims. It depends on what we choose to do with our lives. You've made a conscious decision to follow the good over and over again, enough that your Light—your aura—is so bright that it glows."
I like Crystal and Alec's relationship, how it evolves (or not), how the questions remain unspoken or unanswered and the fact that the real reason wherefore he wants to protect her at any cost remains hidden still.
„I didn’t know how things would turn out between Alec and me, but I was willing to find out. Willing to take a chance and see what happened. Willing to trust him with my life. And my heart.”
Admirable is how the author send messages to the young readers (or not so younger) and how she highlights that anywhere and anyone around us can be a temptation, a reason to go wrong, but ultimately ourselves are the ones who make decisions and act.
„Truth is, demons are all around us, waiting to be invited in. As long as we don't let them in, we're okay, but once they get an invitation, they want to stay forever.”
Desire for revenge, for the salvation, the need to accept what you are and what you want, bearing the consequences, hope and despair come together beautifully and harmoniously.
Perhaps the book is not pack with pure action and is a little predictable at times, but rest assured that it caught my attention and I read it with pleasure and devoured it. Everything runs so smooth that you do not realize when you get to the latest events.
Surely I recommend it to you and, if until now you thought that vampires, werewolves, angels or fallen angels, or demons are elements of the stories, you’ll find now that at least the demons can be in any of us. Really!
"You have no idea who you are dealing with."
December 7, 2012
This is one of those books that you hope will become widespread enough to make a positive impact in this world. Personally, I think this is a book every teenager should read and I will definitely be passing it along to my own kids. Thank you, Rebecca, for writing a beautiful story with a wonderful message! I hope you keep at it because now I want a sequel!
August 13, 2014
The book had good intentions with its message about good vs. evil and how good wins in the end, but the only problem was that I had to fight back my inner demons from coming out while reading it. I had never been this furious while reading a book. It started off as an interesting story with its suspenseful buildup but that lasted only until the first 100 pages. The characters irritated me to no end later and the dialogues were repetitive.
The author wanted to portray Crystal as a very good person who was pure and filled with so much light... but the presentation came off a little forced at times.
Even though I didn't like the main character, Crystal, and didn't relate to her, the person who annoyed me the most must be Alec. He was never saying what he wanted to say and kept beating around the bush. I felt like punching him in the face the whole time and that feeling was very new to me. I was never that angry with a fictional character before. I thought I was going to explode with anger every time he said, "You have to trust me." That was it. No further explanation. "You have to trust me. I'm gonna protect you. You'll have to come with me." So annoying!
Crystal wasn't any better, though. I couldn't believe it when she thought about giving Nate another chance.
"Maybe Nate was sincere about never attacking me again. Maybe what happened had even been my fault. Maybe I said or did something that had led him on or made him think...."
UN-believable! I literally had my jaw dropped.
Despite its good intention and the message trying to send, I didn't buy it at all. I didn't like it.
The author wanted to portray Crystal as a very good person who was pure and filled with so much light... but the presentation came off a little forced at times.
Even though I didn't like the main character, Crystal, and didn't relate to her, the person who annoyed me the most must be Alec. He was never saying what he wanted to say and kept beating around the bush. I felt like punching him in the face the whole time and that feeling was very new to me. I was never that angry with a fictional character before. I thought I was going to explode with anger every time he said, "You have to trust me." That was it. No further explanation. "You have to trust me. I'm gonna protect you. You'll have to come with me." So annoying!
Crystal wasn't any better, though. I couldn't believe it when she thought about giving Nate another chance.
"Maybe Nate was sincere about never attacking me again. Maybe what happened had even been my fault. Maybe I said or did something that had led him on or made him think...."
UN-believable! I literally had my jaw dropped.
Despite its good intention and the message trying to send, I didn't buy it at all. I didn't like it.
December 14, 2012
Wonderful, wonderful message. Probably the most solid moral message I’ve ever read in contemporary literature, but without being too heavy or feeling like a lecture. You could almost look at it like an allegory, I think, representing real life with fictional symbols. I’m trying to explain without giving anything away, and I think I’m doing a bad job. Anyway, I have four boys, but if I had a girl, I would definitely have her read it. The story is imaginative and creative, Crystal is a strong but believable heroine, caught up in high school cares and not realizing her own potential or the battle that is waged around and for her. I thought at times it was a bit predictable, and that the first half of the book drug a little. It probably could have been told quicker or perhaps made a little more interesting. But all in all, I enjoyed it. The story kept me going and the characters were sweet and compelling.
December 10, 2012
Wow! I got this book for free and LOVED it! I can't wait to read any follow up books! (There WILL be follow up books, right?) In this story Crystal is full of light, thanks to making good choices, and she has to figure out how to keep the light in the midst of high school where temptation runs rampant and where she just wants to be an average girl! I like that things never went too far, and I felt like it was very well-written, with rounded out characters! The Kindle version had one page where the paragraphs were ended early, but the words were all there, so I was a happy camper!
March 13, 2013
Review:
Have you ever heard the term Clean Read? If you haven't, it basically means the book is appropriate for "conservative" readers to enjoy. The book has very light violence, usually no swearing, and definitely no sex. In movie terms it would be given a G-rating, wholesome for the whole family to enjoy type of deal. Can a book be to clean though? Oh yeah. Aura suffers with that exact problem and here is why:
The main protagonist of the story Crystal is a force for the greater good. Her "Aura" is blindingly bright which means A. Demons are attracted to her. and B. She can fight off said demons using her light to dispel them. However, Crystal is ridiculously good. So much so that she wasn't believable. Not only that but she was naive to the point of maybe being simple in the head. I felt some serious projecting by the Author into the character of how she wanted teenagers to act vs. how they actually do. I don't mean Crystal needed to have sex, lie, cheat or steal. However, teenagers swear, they have impure thoughts and they make mistakes I could go on and on. I'm just going to leave it at Crystal being a bit to brainwashed for my tastes if you get my drift.
Another problem I had was the Demons themselves. I wanted them to be darker. When I read a book about demons I want violence, gore, mischief and mayhem. Instead these demons were like cute fluffy bunny versions who made their host do really naughty things and by naughty I mean Lifetime movie of the week vs. The Exorcist or any other demon film where they are you know actually scary. I definitely didn't get the Evil vibe from these guys, it was very disappointing.
My last big problem with this book was the pacing. It started out great, petered off in the middle and then rushed through the ending. It felt disjointed and made it hard to stay glued to the narrative.
I know I sound harsh in my criticism but it wouldn't be a proper review if I sugar coated things. So now that I've gotten my main problems out of the way, I want to share some positives:
I really enjoyed the character Alec/Joshua. He was cool, smart, had great character development and was swoonworthy. A total Win in my book. I definitely felt the Author had a much easier time developing the male characters over the female ones.
I also liked how humans were hosts for the shadowy demons. It was possession which has been done a million times over but the way its done in the book feels fresh and unique. I liked it.
Lastly, I enjoyed the ending even though it was rushed. I think if it hadn't ended the way it did this would of definitely been a much more negative review. So kudos to the Author for keeping me entertained at least partly.
Overall I enjoyed Aura it was a pleasant read. However..... even though I am rating Aura 3 stars, I don't feel I could confidently recommend it. Aura isn't bad and maybe that's the problem. Considering its a book chronicling the battle between Good and Evil it felt to squeaky clean for my tastes. Will I read the next book in the series? Possibly. I enjoyed the ending enough where I'm sort of curious to see where it heads. If I do, I really hope I enjoy Crystal more on the next go round.
Have you ever heard the term Clean Read? If you haven't, it basically means the book is appropriate for "conservative" readers to enjoy. The book has very light violence, usually no swearing, and definitely no sex. In movie terms it would be given a G-rating, wholesome for the whole family to enjoy type of deal. Can a book be to clean though? Oh yeah. Aura suffers with that exact problem and here is why:
The main protagonist of the story Crystal is a force for the greater good. Her "Aura" is blindingly bright which means A. Demons are attracted to her. and B. She can fight off said demons using her light to dispel them. However, Crystal is ridiculously good. So much so that she wasn't believable. Not only that but she was naive to the point of maybe being simple in the head. I felt some serious projecting by the Author into the character of how she wanted teenagers to act vs. how they actually do. I don't mean Crystal needed to have sex, lie, cheat or steal. However, teenagers swear, they have impure thoughts and they make mistakes I could go on and on. I'm just going to leave it at Crystal being a bit to brainwashed for my tastes if you get my drift.
Another problem I had was the Demons themselves. I wanted them to be darker. When I read a book about demons I want violence, gore, mischief and mayhem. Instead these demons were like cute fluffy bunny versions who made their host do really naughty things and by naughty I mean Lifetime movie of the week vs. The Exorcist or any other demon film where they are you know actually scary. I definitely didn't get the Evil vibe from these guys, it was very disappointing.
My last big problem with this book was the pacing. It started out great, petered off in the middle and then rushed through the ending. It felt disjointed and made it hard to stay glued to the narrative.
I know I sound harsh in my criticism but it wouldn't be a proper review if I sugar coated things. So now that I've gotten my main problems out of the way, I want to share some positives:
I really enjoyed the character Alec/Joshua. He was cool, smart, had great character development and was swoonworthy. A total Win in my book. I definitely felt the Author had a much easier time developing the male characters over the female ones.
I also liked how humans were hosts for the shadowy demons. It was possession which has been done a million times over but the way its done in the book feels fresh and unique. I liked it.
Lastly, I enjoyed the ending even though it was rushed. I think if it hadn't ended the way it did this would of definitely been a much more negative review. So kudos to the Author for keeping me entertained at least partly.
Overall I enjoyed Aura it was a pleasant read. However..... even though I am rating Aura 3 stars, I don't feel I could confidently recommend it. Aura isn't bad and maybe that's the problem. Considering its a book chronicling the battle between Good and Evil it felt to squeaky clean for my tastes. Will I read the next book in the series? Possibly. I enjoyed the ending enough where I'm sort of curious to see where it heads. If I do, I really hope I enjoy Crystal more on the next go round.
March 14, 2013
Aura follows the awakening of Crystal, a girl who has moved around so much that she’s never fit in. Now, when she finally has a boyfriend, a best friend, and a successful part in the school play, she’s realizing that she’s more special than she ever knew. Crystal’s parents have tried to hide the truth from her, though they always raised her to live a good life. Crystal has a special talent, The Light, which allows her to overcome the tempting power of demons.
The beginning of the book focuses on Crystal’s main dilemma: whether to sleep with her boyfriend after prom. Though Crystal definitely doesn’t want to, she feels pressured by Nate’s sweet behavior and the encouragement of her best friend. But the decision gets easier when Nate seem possessed—and it turns out he actually is. Crystal becomes aware of demons that possess people’s bodies in exchange for the promise of something they desire. For Nate, it was the restoration of his college scholarship. And for some reason, they’re all after Crystal.
So far, however, Crystal has been able to live a good life and resist temptation. When she meets Alec and his family, she learns that there is an entire organization dedicated to fighting demons. They recognize a great power in Crystal—the same power that has made her the target of multiple demons—and decide to train her to serve their ranks.
This book has a great message. Without being dogmatic, it encourages teenagers to make the right decisions despite peer pressure. The book was told primarily through first-person point of view, though there were some intercut chapters in third person through the perspective of the head demon. I liked the suspense created by the shifting perspectives, but the point of view shift was always a little jarring at the start of the chapter. Still, I enjoyed the story and its positive message, and the last half of the book is heavily plot-centered, making it a quick read. I would definitely recommend this book to my high school students. Even the racy or violent scenes were kept extremely appropriate for a younger audience, allowing the message to shine through.
The beginning of the book focuses on Crystal’s main dilemma: whether to sleep with her boyfriend after prom. Though Crystal definitely doesn’t want to, she feels pressured by Nate’s sweet behavior and the encouragement of her best friend. But the decision gets easier when Nate seem possessed—and it turns out he actually is. Crystal becomes aware of demons that possess people’s bodies in exchange for the promise of something they desire. For Nate, it was the restoration of his college scholarship. And for some reason, they’re all after Crystal.
So far, however, Crystal has been able to live a good life and resist temptation. When she meets Alec and his family, she learns that there is an entire organization dedicated to fighting demons. They recognize a great power in Crystal—the same power that has made her the target of multiple demons—and decide to train her to serve their ranks.
This book has a great message. Without being dogmatic, it encourages teenagers to make the right decisions despite peer pressure. The book was told primarily through first-person point of view, though there were some intercut chapters in third person through the perspective of the head demon. I liked the suspense created by the shifting perspectives, but the point of view shift was always a little jarring at the start of the chapter. Still, I enjoyed the story and its positive message, and the last half of the book is heavily plot-centered, making it a quick read. I would definitely recommend this book to my high school students. Even the racy or violent scenes were kept extremely appropriate for a younger audience, allowing the message to shine through.
September 29, 2013
*spoilers*
I kept debating on how I felt about this book. Aura was a typical good versus evil story where the good overcomes evil. The story was well written and easy to read.
I found the twists of auras in the story to be interesting. Usually in this kind of story, you expect demons fighting angels. Instead, a person's inner light was used to combat against these demonic entities. Also, I enjoyed how a person's decisions affect one's light. The more morally correct decisions you make, the brighter your light is.
Crystal's character was admirable. I really liked that she stayed strong to her beliefs and did not change her thoughts and actions when it came to peer pressure. I also loved how she respected her parents and how she made sure to let her friends know that there's nothing wrong in obeying her parent's rules. Crystal's character should be someone that teens should be exposed to.
Though this book had some great qualities, there were a few things that I did not like. First off, it started slow for me and I felt that there were unneeded parts. It didn't pick up for me until around page 100, which is almost halfway with the book. Second, the idea of virginity bothered me. Yes, I did like the author's intent in saying that it is okay to wait until marriage, but I did not like the message behind when a girl loses her virginity. It pretty much frames that if a girl is not "innocent," then she has less value. Last ***SPOILER***, the attack scene on Crystal in the cabin angered me. I liked that Crystal knew that what happened to her was wrong but it was not described for what it was, which was attempted rape. It almost seemed that this issue was watered down a bit. To me, this should have been said for what it was so young girls know that what happened to Crystal is NEVER okay. These were just my quirks that I had with the book.
In all, this was a decent read with a strong character who would be a great motivator for young girls.
I kept debating on how I felt about this book. Aura was a typical good versus evil story where the good overcomes evil. The story was well written and easy to read.
I found the twists of auras in the story to be interesting. Usually in this kind of story, you expect demons fighting angels. Instead, a person's inner light was used to combat against these demonic entities. Also, I enjoyed how a person's decisions affect one's light. The more morally correct decisions you make, the brighter your light is.
Crystal's character was admirable. I really liked that she stayed strong to her beliefs and did not change her thoughts and actions when it came to peer pressure. I also loved how she respected her parents and how she made sure to let her friends know that there's nothing wrong in obeying her parent's rules. Crystal's character should be someone that teens should be exposed to.
Though this book had some great qualities, there were a few things that I did not like. First off, it started slow for me and I felt that there were unneeded parts. It didn't pick up for me until around page 100, which is almost halfway with the book. Second, the idea of virginity bothered me. Yes, I did like the author's intent in saying that it is okay to wait until marriage, but I did not like the message behind when a girl loses her virginity. It pretty much frames that if a girl is not "innocent," then she has less value. Last ***SPOILER***, the attack scene on Crystal in the cabin angered me. I liked that Crystal knew that what happened to her was wrong but it was not described for what it was, which was attempted rape. It almost seemed that this issue was watered down a bit. To me, this should have been said for what it was so young girls know that what happened to Crystal is NEVER okay. These were just my quirks that I had with the book.
In all, this was a decent read with a strong character who would be a great motivator for young girls.
March 10, 2013
*** 3.5 Stars ***
Crystal has spent most of her life moving from place to place with her parents. Her father is a minister and they move to help new congregations. She is in her senior year of high school and finally settled into a place where she feels at home. She has as best friend and a boyfriend. She is the lead in High School play and going to Prom. Her dreams are coming true.
Things take a drastic change when she begins to be pressured to take part in activities that she is not comfortable with. She decided years prior that she would remain a virgin until marriage. Best friend and boy friend think that Prom is the perfect time to change that.
They apply pressure and start acting strange. At this point her life is turned upside down when she finds that she has a pure light emanating from her aura. She attracts the good and the evil with her light. The evil of course wants to dominate her and control her. It lured her two closet friends with the power of money and fulfilling dreams to get to her.
This book is a fight of good verses evil. Crystal was unaware of the demon activity around her until it made itself obvious to her. The point is made in the book that most people are not aware of some of the bad things going on around them, that we're kind of in a bubble. Someone has to pop the bubble to introduce us to what we don't want to see.
I loved Crystal's determination to stand by her values. She makes a valuable point about others respecting her decisions and not belittling her for them. Crystal displays strength and courage as she struggles to help good prevail.
I enjoyed the book. At times some of the themes seemed to be pounded on a little too hard for my taste. It is an excellent book to read to help teens find a reason to stay true to their values and beliefs.
Crystal has spent most of her life moving from place to place with her parents. Her father is a minister and they move to help new congregations. She is in her senior year of high school and finally settled into a place where she feels at home. She has as best friend and a boyfriend. She is the lead in High School play and going to Prom. Her dreams are coming true.
Things take a drastic change when she begins to be pressured to take part in activities that she is not comfortable with. She decided years prior that she would remain a virgin until marriage. Best friend and boy friend think that Prom is the perfect time to change that.
They apply pressure and start acting strange. At this point her life is turned upside down when she finds that she has a pure light emanating from her aura. She attracts the good and the evil with her light. The evil of course wants to dominate her and control her. It lured her two closet friends with the power of money and fulfilling dreams to get to her.
This book is a fight of good verses evil. Crystal was unaware of the demon activity around her until it made itself obvious to her. The point is made in the book that most people are not aware of some of the bad things going on around them, that we're kind of in a bubble. Someone has to pop the bubble to introduce us to what we don't want to see.
I loved Crystal's determination to stand by her values. She makes a valuable point about others respecting her decisions and not belittling her for them. Crystal displays strength and courage as she struggles to help good prevail.
I enjoyed the book. At times some of the themes seemed to be pounded on a little too hard for my taste. It is an excellent book to read to help teens find a reason to stay true to their values and beliefs.
March 6, 2013
Aura is a YA Paranormal novel. This is a feel good read, HEA BUT it’s not, Pleasantville there ARE twist,turns,ups and downs, fights, breakups, attempted sexual assault AND even death. However, the author does a good job at keeping the details of some of the tougher parts very YA/Teen friendly.
The main character is Crystal Scott a high school senior. Crystal, is VERY different than most high school girls she is, good. No Blaire & Serena here (I miss you, Gossip Girl). Not just 7th Haven good, but a REALLY good girl. Crystal, respects her parents, considers their feelings and is a good student. She isn’t that popular in school but is okay with that. She is involved in theatre, has a BFF and boy friend. Crystal,later learn that her parents have been keeping a MAJOR secret about her life. The good in Crystal can also gain power for others. In Aura readers learn how Crystal’s choice to be good not only effects her and those around her but the world as a whole.
Being a huge paranormal fan myself, I did enjoy that aspect of this book. It was not anything too sci fi for those of you who do not read paranormals. The paranormal aspect of the book all play into the moral message that this book shares. Aura I would recommend to SMIBookClub mom’s of pre teens/high school students. This book would be a great conversation starter for Moms and daughters to discuss the importance of choices we make. I am going to give it to my niece who is becoming a book worm (proud auntie) to read over her April school vacation.
-Laters, Juewelz
SMIBookClub.com
SMIBookClub received ARC copy of Aura in exchange for an honest review.
The main character is Crystal Scott a high school senior. Crystal, is VERY different than most high school girls she is, good. No Blaire & Serena here (I miss you, Gossip Girl). Not just 7th Haven good, but a REALLY good girl. Crystal, respects her parents, considers their feelings and is a good student. She isn’t that popular in school but is okay with that. She is involved in theatre, has a BFF and boy friend. Crystal,later learn that her parents have been keeping a MAJOR secret about her life. The good in Crystal can also gain power for others. In Aura readers learn how Crystal’s choice to be good not only effects her and those around her but the world as a whole.
Being a huge paranormal fan myself, I did enjoy that aspect of this book. It was not anything too sci fi for those of you who do not read paranormals. The paranormal aspect of the book all play into the moral message that this book shares. Aura I would recommend to SMIBookClub mom’s of pre teens/high school students. This book would be a great conversation starter for Moms and daughters to discuss the importance of choices we make. I am going to give it to my niece who is becoming a book worm (proud auntie) to read over her April school vacation.
-Laters, Juewelz
SMIBookClub.com
SMIBookClub received ARC copy of Aura in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2013
This story was... good.
I really don't know what to make of it because I was reading and reading, waiting for something exciting got happen, but for me, it didn't. I felt kind of bored a little mislead by the pitch. Something in the pitch was like "this is amazing and SOOO intense" but when I actually read it, I was just like, "get rid of the demons and 'light' and this book could be realistic fiction."
Another thing that might've been better was Crystal's character. She's built to be known as a girl who can do no harm and while that may be true, I found her stupid and annoying at times. She really didn't listen to Alec, who was just trying to help her, even after calming down and stopping the threats to call the police.
Thank God I was able to get through it because Rebecca L. Talley has a good writing style. it was easy to read and before you know it, "ba dum" , it's over.
I do recommend this to anyone looking for a novel that looks long, but really can be skipped in some sections. It was entertaining but if it had to have a genre, i'd give it realistic fiction. Sorry, the "demons" just didn't cut it for me. It was only the end when there was something truly paranormal.
Check out this review on my blog!
I really don't know what to make of it because I was reading and reading, waiting for something exciting got happen, but for me, it didn't. I felt kind of bored a little mislead by the pitch. Something in the pitch was like "this is amazing and SOOO intense" but when I actually read it, I was just like, "get rid of the demons and 'light' and this book could be realistic fiction."
Another thing that might've been better was Crystal's character. She's built to be known as a girl who can do no harm and while that may be true, I found her stupid and annoying at times. She really didn't listen to Alec, who was just trying to help her, even after calming down and stopping the threats to call the police.
Thank God I was able to get through it because Rebecca L. Talley has a good writing style. it was easy to read and before you know it, "ba dum" , it's over.
I do recommend this to anyone looking for a novel that looks long, but really can be skipped in some sections. It was entertaining but if it had to have a genre, i'd give it realistic fiction. Sorry, the "demons" just didn't cut it for me. It was only the end when there was something truly paranormal.
Check out this review on my blog!
March 10, 2013
I was looking forward to reading Aura by Rebecca Talley and was very happy to take part in the book tour for this book. Overall I did enjoy the book and it was an enjoyable enough read. The structure is very good and I was happy with the writing style. Considering some of the books I have read lately it was nice to have a book that did have a solid foundation with it.
However there was some very dragging points where things just seemed to stall and very slowly roll along. The start of the book was slow and it took a while to fully engage in the story and be able to say okay, I like this. I never disliked it but I really prefer a book that is going go grab me sooner. The end of the book was a bit slow as well, I wonder if maybe there was some conflict on just how to wrap things up with the story.
Even with the slower parts of the story it is an okay book. It did not blow my mind but I liked it. If your looking for a paranormal read this is an enjoyable relatively fast read. The aspect of good vs evil is of course not a new one, but there are some interesting twists within the story as it unfolds. There are some good descriptions and parts that will make you raise an eyebrow. The scene when the main character first starts to notice something off about a teacher is interestingly done.
However there was some very dragging points where things just seemed to stall and very slowly roll along. The start of the book was slow and it took a while to fully engage in the story and be able to say okay, I like this. I never disliked it but I really prefer a book that is going go grab me sooner. The end of the book was a bit slow as well, I wonder if maybe there was some conflict on just how to wrap things up with the story.
Even with the slower parts of the story it is an okay book. It did not blow my mind but I liked it. If your looking for a paranormal read this is an enjoyable relatively fast read. The aspect of good vs evil is of course not a new one, but there are some interesting twists within the story as it unfolds. There are some good descriptions and parts that will make you raise an eyebrow. The scene when the main character first starts to notice something off about a teacher is interestingly done.
March 12, 2013
(2.5)
I was quickly drawn into the book by the suspenseful beginning and it made me happy. However, I was just as swiftly disappointed to find out that the mystery was not played out well enough to make it a fabulous read. It seemed to me that the author wanted to make sure that the message of “good prevails evil” to come across that instead of having the story tell it, she spelled it out. I want to be challenged. I want to read between the lines. I want spunky character developments that would have me wanting to swing punches alongside of them. I want exciting action sequences that would have me eager to turn the pages. Instead this read was a bit flat and predictable. Yet, I can’t ignore the good this book did communicate. That is, the more you let good into your being, the more powerful you are to defend yourself from evils and also how that goodness becomes an aura that shines for all to see and feel. No brainer really but a message worth admonishing to the young adults that this is geared to, so for that I commend the author. Thus, may our light of goodness ever so shine brightly that we may bask in the blessings it offers.
Jinky is Reading
I was quickly drawn into the book by the suspenseful beginning and it made me happy. However, I was just as swiftly disappointed to find out that the mystery was not played out well enough to make it a fabulous read. It seemed to me that the author wanted to make sure that the message of “good prevails evil” to come across that instead of having the story tell it, she spelled it out. I want to be challenged. I want to read between the lines. I want spunky character developments that would have me wanting to swing punches alongside of them. I want exciting action sequences that would have me eager to turn the pages. Instead this read was a bit flat and predictable. Yet, I can’t ignore the good this book did communicate. That is, the more you let good into your being, the more powerful you are to defend yourself from evils and also how that goodness becomes an aura that shines for all to see and feel. No brainer really but a message worth admonishing to the young adults that this is geared to, so for that I commend the author. Thus, may our light of goodness ever so shine brightly that we may bask in the blessings it offers.
Jinky is Reading
March 11, 2013
Aura was an enjoyable read for me, and also a quick one, which I like! I love stories about demons, light and dark, so I knew I would like it! The highlight for me was Crystal as a character. She was refreshingly good, but still believable. A great role model for teens!
Crystal always seems to make the right choices insofar as moral issues. She constantly seconds guesses herself, though, which made it feel more real to me. Its nice for teens to have a "good girl" character they could relate to. Lately it seems most MC girls are not quite so pure. Crystal is able to kick butt as well as the rest of them when she doesn't doubt herself!
I didn't feel as if I got to know any of the other characters nearly as well. I really wanted to like Alec, but by the end of the book, I didn't really feel as if I know him at all. The romance between he and Crystal also seemed way too quick, and somewhat forced.
The action is great in the story, and the villian was appropriately evil! I also liked that Crystal had parents--I've been reading about a lot of absent parents lately! If you are looking for an entertaining story, this would be a good one to try!
Crystal always seems to make the right choices insofar as moral issues. She constantly seconds guesses herself, though, which made it feel more real to me. Its nice for teens to have a "good girl" character they could relate to. Lately it seems most MC girls are not quite so pure. Crystal is able to kick butt as well as the rest of them when she doesn't doubt herself!
I didn't feel as if I got to know any of the other characters nearly as well. I really wanted to like Alec, but by the end of the book, I didn't really feel as if I know him at all. The romance between he and Crystal also seemed way too quick, and somewhat forced.
The action is great in the story, and the villian was appropriately evil! I also liked that Crystal had parents--I've been reading about a lot of absent parents lately! If you are looking for an entertaining story, this would be a good one to try!
March 14, 2013
Tori's Thoughts: I enjoyed this book very much. It was very slow in the beginning for me, but I stuck with it. After about 4 chapters it started to click! I found it interesting how the author portrayed human nature from the less-than-stellar side; how a person's greed can overwhelm the good if left unchecked.
Crystal had been so good all her life that she had a very powerful Light. More powerful than even she knew. Vincent, on the other hand, was attracted to Light, but only so he could possess it. Because of the means that he used to obtain someone's Light, it would become Dark under his rule.
I related the battle between Light and the demons to things that I have read and heard about in the Bible. It got long again towards the end, but a shocking twist made me gasp. I am hoping there will be a second book!
Crystal had been so good all her life that she had a very powerful Light. More powerful than even she knew. Vincent, on the other hand, was attracted to Light, but only so he could possess it. Because of the means that he used to obtain someone's Light, it would become Dark under his rule.
I related the battle between Light and the demons to things that I have read and heard about in the Bible. It got long again towards the end, but a shocking twist made me gasp. I am hoping there will be a second book!
April 2, 2013
My review:
Aura by Rebecca Lynn Talley was a great book! It was intense and well-written and it was quite refreshing novel!
You meet Crystal Scott who seems like an ordinary teenager. She is not, she has powers and gifts which enable her to see right through people. She can see the difference in what lies behind - she recognizes the demons. Like usually, great powers come with great dangers and Crystal needs to face life threatening events.
I liked the premises of the story and the characters. I enjoyed the idea, that demons possess a host person who usually has done something dark prior being picked. The message the author is giving to the reader is that the choices you make decide who do you become and I loved that!
Rebecca Lynn Talley is a great storyteller and I was captivated from the first pages. The story flowed smoothly and I liked the pacing. Very well done!
Aura by Rebecca Lynn Talley was a great book! It was intense and well-written and it was quite refreshing novel!
You meet Crystal Scott who seems like an ordinary teenager. She is not, she has powers and gifts which enable her to see right through people. She can see the difference in what lies behind - she recognizes the demons. Like usually, great powers come with great dangers and Crystal needs to face life threatening events.
I liked the premises of the story and the characters. I enjoyed the idea, that demons possess a host person who usually has done something dark prior being picked. The message the author is giving to the reader is that the choices you make decide who do you become and I loved that!
Rebecca Lynn Talley is a great storyteller and I was captivated from the first pages. The story flowed smoothly and I liked the pacing. Very well done!
December 30, 2013
Crystal Scott has always been a good girl, one that has never felt the need to lie to her parents , love her parents and follows rules. Seventeen years later , she is at school when she experiences her teacher's eyes looking dead and feels sick. Soon , it is discovered that demons are infiltrating the city and her friends and inside of Crystal is the power to stop the fight between good and evil as within her body is the power of light and strong light as well. Soon we discover that this war links back to her parents and that their is a organisation called The Covenant who make it their job to stop the demons from overpowering the people of America. If you are looking for a teen novel with a supernatural twist and set in the eyes of a high schooler, then check out Aura by Rebecca Lynn Talley.
May 8, 2013
3.5 stars
Aura is another classic story about good vs evil, light vs dark, with a paranormal spin.
The book started out slow for me. It took awhile for me to settle in and enjoy but it did happen. Everything in this book was good. Good characters, good story. It's just that I've heard this story before. There wasn't anything new or overly engaging.
One great thing about this book was the overall message. You could feel deeper meanings in this book. I love the whole idea that as Crystal was good and made good choices her light, or aura, got brighter and she became a powerful influence for good.
And as you may or may not know, I really appreciate a clean read. This book was exactly the kind of book I feel comfortable handing off to my daughter.
Aura is another classic story about good vs evil, light vs dark, with a paranormal spin.
The book started out slow for me. It took awhile for me to settle in and enjoy but it did happen. Everything in this book was good. Good characters, good story. It's just that I've heard this story before. There wasn't anything new or overly engaging.
One great thing about this book was the overall message. You could feel deeper meanings in this book. I love the whole idea that as Crystal was good and made good choices her light, or aura, got brighter and she became a powerful influence for good.
And as you may or may not know, I really appreciate a clean read. This book was exactly the kind of book I feel comfortable handing off to my daughter.
March 5, 2013
3.5 stars
Aura is another classic story about good vs evil, light vs dark, with a paranormal spin.
The book started out slow for me. It took awhile for me to settle in and enjoy but it did happen. Everything in this book was good. Good characters, good story. It's just that I've heard this story before. There wasn't anything new or overly engaging.
One great thing about this book was the overall message. You could feel deeper meanings in this book. I love the whole idea that as Crystal was good and made good choices her light, or aura, got brighter and she became a powerful influence for good.
And as you may or may not know, I really appreciate a clean read. This book was exactly the kind of book I feel comfortable handing off to my daughter.
Aura is another classic story about good vs evil, light vs dark, with a paranormal spin.
The book started out slow for me. It took awhile for me to settle in and enjoy but it did happen. Everything in this book was good. Good characters, good story. It's just that I've heard this story before. There wasn't anything new or overly engaging.
One great thing about this book was the overall message. You could feel deeper meanings in this book. I love the whole idea that as Crystal was good and made good choices her light, or aura, got brighter and she became a powerful influence for good.
And as you may or may not know, I really appreciate a clean read. This book was exactly the kind of book I feel comfortable handing off to my daughter.
January 7, 2013
I am quite torn on this one. I enjoyed the book but I found the beginning and end a little weak. The beginning dragged out and the end wrapped up the story way too fast. The middle part of the book as solid though and very captivating. The message of the book was great too. But what really bothered me was the main character, Crystal at times. She wasn't just innocent, but downright naive and at times a little bit simple-minded if you ask me. What could have been a strong female character was watered down by this. Still I think the book is definitely worth reading.
March 8, 2013
Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
Aura by Rebecca Lynn Talley had a wonderful message within the story that is beneficial to both young adult and adult readers alike. I really like the idea that the choices we make and how we live out lives are what bring out the light and dark within us. This book had some intense moments, but it stayed clean and, I feel it was engaging enough to catch and keep the attention of readers of all ages.
December 8, 2015
I received this from Goodreads-First Reads.
I rate this a 3 1/2. I enjoyed the story and felt there was a solid moral message in it however; there were parts in the story where the dialogue was flat and just plain slow. The ending was a bit flat as well. I expected much more action during the battle of between Light and Dark. Will I read the next one? Probably :)
I rate this a 3 1/2. I enjoyed the story and felt there was a solid moral message in it however; there were parts in the story where the dialogue was flat and just plain slow. The ending was a bit flat as well. I expected much more action during the battle of between Light and Dark. Will I read the next one? Probably :)
February 17, 2013
This had a good message, but was a little too sci fi for my taste. Vampires and werewolves are one thing. Demons are in a whole other league.
December 11, 2012
It was way too childish in my mind. Yes, it was nice to read but would I continue on with the series? I sincerely doubt it. I wanted something a bit more kick ass.
January 14, 2013
Boring and implausible.
January 23, 2013
This was a great read! I just loved the part about comparing the evil guy (Vincent) to a politician! Made me laugh! The end leaves room for a sequel....
March 6, 2013
3 1/2 stars. Really great message for girls. Hang into your Lights and do not let them go out! Full review March 8 www.minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com
May 9, 2013
Definitely a true YA story. Great for teens with a great message about the power of good vs. evil.
August 4, 2013
good read! action packed. would love to read the sequel
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