The Knowers

by Merry Brown

Will’s sole ambition is to get out of high school alive and away from his vicious father. His brilliant plan to fly below the radar blows up in his face when he gets involved with the mysterious Lizzy. Will worries for Lizzy’s safety, exposing her to his dangerous world, only to discover what Lizzy really is and what she fights. How can Will, a Knower, and Lizzy, a daughter from The Garden, possibly find a way to be together?

Genres: Fiction, Young Adult, Ebooks

255 pages, Paperback

First published September 17, 2012

About the author

Merry Brown is a writer, speaker, workplace conflict restoration consultant, podcast host of Conflict Managed and owner of Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services, LLC.

On her route to workplace conflict restoration work, she taught philosophy for over twenty years in St. Louis, MO and Martin, TN.

Merry Brown has a B.A. from Azusa Pacific University in Philosophy and Psychology and a M.A. in Humanities with an emphasis in Philosophy from Western Kentucky University. She is a member of the International Ombuds Association, a Resolution Consultant for the US branch of the London based TCM Group, and a listed Tennessee Rule 31 Civil Mediator.

Her latest book, How to Be Unprofessional at Work: Tips to Ensure Failure examines what it means to act professionally.

The Food Addict: Recovering from Binge Eating Disorder & Making Peace with Food is her first work of non-fiction.

She has two young adult series, featuring The Knowers and Gold Manor Ghost House.

Reviews

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a librarian at a juvenile detention facility. I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. The following review is from a student:

"Kept me on edge, great heart throb and I can't wait to read the next book in the trilogy!"

[Ashley · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a free copy of The Knowers from the author.

From the very first chapter of The Knowers, I was completely lost, not with the mysterious occurrences, but with the progression of the story. I'm not sure if months passed in this book or if it was mere weeks, but everything seemed so rushed that it really threw me off and left my mind wandering around in a fog. It was as if one minute Will was at school, the next it was the weekend, quickly followed by the next school week... all in one chapter. I was seriously bogged down a couple of times trying to figure out what time of year/day/week it was.

I like the forbidden love aspect of the story, but I couldn't get involved in Will and Lizzy's relationship. He was constantly talking about how amazing she was and how everyone could open up to her and she would make them feel better, but aside from a few brief comments about her "abilities," I never really understood the allure of Lizzy. She was amazing, I get it, but why? I just felt like I really didn't get to know her as a character. And why did she love Will? They hung out and played guitar together, but how does that evolve into the earth-shattering, mind-boggling,can't-live-without-you love? I never read any deep conversations between the two of them and they never shared any passionate moments prior to falling for each other, so to me the relationship felt shallow. It reminded me of a of ten year old kid who think they're in love with someone just because they're cute and played tag with them on the playground once. Will and Lizzy's love just fell flat for me and that was gravely disappointing.

Also, does Will have ADD or something? They would be talking about "what" she is and instead of finding out more about who or what she is and what exactly it is that makes her anything but ordinary -because he'd been obsessing over these things- he's saying "so you do love me?" and "why did you avoid me for so long?" I just knew that any second he would yell out "squirrel" and run through the trees chasing imaginary butterflies. It was maddening. He couldn't seem to hold a structured conversation for any natural length of time.

Speaking of conversations, what teen boys ever get together, talk about girls and give each other love advice? Will, Michael and John may need to check themselves, because they totally sounded like a group of lovesick teen girls.

Will's relationship with his dad... What was that? Was his dad good before the tragedy or was he a jackass the whole time? I'm really not sure. Will loathed his father with an intensity that I just couldn't understand. I'm sure I would have shared his feelings, if there had been an actual explanation of who he was, what he'd done and why he was to be hated. I get he's some kind of mobster-type, dangerous, creep, but I just didn't understand how long he'd been that way. I also didn't understand the whole deal with Will's brother. Anyway, that whole thing was too much for me to even attempt to process, so I tried to ignore Will's daddy issues for the most part.

I'm really thankful that I received this book for free and I hate that I didn't really enjoy it. However, the author had an amazing idea for a story. Perhaps if it had been written more in-depth and the progression of the story was slowed down, I would have enjoyed it better.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actual rating of 3.5

The idea behind this book was very new and exciting. I love reading super original books and I have yet to read anything like this novel. However, I thought the characters were really underdeveloped and that it was very slow moving. I was all the way into chapter 18 before anything really happened.

I am used to reading a book and gaining the sense that I instantly understand the main character and it feels like I have known them forever, but in this novel I didn't get that feeling from any of the characters. I would be reading and a name would pop up and all I could think was, "Who are you?"

I give Dr. Brown a big round of applause for doing all the publishing and writing by herself. Publishing a book is not an easy job! This is a very good novel for being the first one she has ever written. I think she has some brilliant ideas if only she could tie up a few loose ends.

[Randy Briggs · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book as a First Read through Goodreads.
I have to admit that I'm getting tired of the teen supernatural genre, but the premise of this particular novel was new and exciting. No sparkly vampires or sullen werewolves. The story was interesting and original. I found the dialogue a little stilted at times, particularly for teenagers; however, overall it was a good read. I would recommend it to friends.

[Neeka Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book beyond words. I identified so much with Lizzy and Will. The camping chapter was incredibly moving. I hope more than anything there is a second book. My heart was fully involved with this book and its loveliness

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book from GOODREADS FIRST READS and loved it! This book was interesting and gave you a new perspective on some things I hadn't really thought about! I look forward to reading other things by this author!

[Jeannine · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book has to be one of my least favorites the story was dull and plain the characters had no depth the conversations had no wit or charm this book was just words with barley coherent sentences. Unfortunately its just another attempt that could have been brilliant but went horribly wrong.

[Mandy Hinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book! I couldn’t put it down. What an amazing concept… the siblings of some pretty famous folks are on Earth to help us love each other better. “Beauty will redeem us all” Another wonderful book by Merry Brown! Can’t wait to read the next one.

[Amy Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

*GOODREADS FIRST READS REVIEW*

I did like this book. It's not without its faults, and I would probably lean more toward 3.5 stars, but I'd prefer to give it more credit rather than less credit, so I went with 4. This is a very original story. Authors tackle mythology in modern times all the time, as in Greek or Roman mythology, but rarely bring in Christian mythologies (I know... some of you will argue with the mythology statement, but whatever). I thought it was well-done if not completely believable in context. As with Twilight, why the hell would these creatures who are hundreds or thousands of years old want to be in high school? Blech... wouldn't catch me making that choice. I know they may look young, but if you look 17, that means you can generally pass for adult. Then again, it wouldn't be a teen novel, would it? So I'll get off that silly point. Then again, I think this novel would have possibly been a bit better if written for a more mature audience with more mature themes put into place.

Substantively, I thought there actually could have been more. The story seemed rushed in places and, since there was a good story here, that was a shame. There was more pontificating on the part of Will (what's going to happen? does she still like me?) when I would have liked to see more action and to see that action expanded upon to be shown the story rather than been told. Overall, though, I thought the characters were fairly good and likable. It usually irks me when there's a "perfect" character, but in Lizzy's case, this is explained, so I'll give it a pass in this instance. Overall, this was a very enjoyable read and I would recommend it for someone who's looking for a light, quick book to enjoy.

[Stephenee · Rating 5 out of 5]

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book was an amazing read! I loved it from start to finish and once I was finished I knew that I needed to read book 2 right away! I fell in love with the characters (most of them) and felt like I was a part of their group right from the start. I loved how the "humans" were the ones with the "strange" name...The Knowers and that we are the ones that needed saving and were able to accept this. I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the fact that while there is some kissing that the book does not in any way revolve around sex. The book made the reader love it for the story and not the sex. It was refreshing to see that the story was able to entertain, keep the reader intrigued and have the reader fall in love with the characters not because they take their clothes off but because she developed them and gave them a personality. I loved how the story continued to flow throughout the book and never once was I wondering what had happened or what I missed. The story keeps the reader guessing and it is in no way predictable. It is a story of love, family, friendships and the underlying meaning is a great one...."Beauty will redeem us all". Overall this is a quick read but a good one and one that should be added to your TBR list sooner rather than later!! Pick this one up and you won't be sorry!!!

[Daniela · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!!!
First of all, i want to give a HUGE thank you to the author Merry Brown for sending me a copy of her beautiful book! (i really loved the cover AND the back);

The story is about William who only has one goal, get out of high school and away from he's horrible father. who wasn't always like that, but since the tragic accident who took the life of his mother and sister, changed completely and doesn't look like the same man; so when meets and get to know Lizzie, he question himself if going away is the best idea after all.

so... i really liked this book, is an fast and easy to read book, with beautiful characters, Will is such a good person! and so SWEET!! agh!; the plot of the book it was awesome, THAT topic is so original all the Adan and Eve topic was really clever when i was reading it, never crossed my mind that it was going to be about that!, i can not wait to read the sequel and see what happened with Will and Lizzie.

[Janetkc7wvy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not much into fantasy and probably would not have read this book if I hadn't been asked to by a dear friend. It started out pretty rough and turned me right off from the start. I understand someone in the story had to be evil since it is about good vs evil (and the Dad character was definitely evil). As there is so much evil in the world, I prefer to read something that is uplifting.

I would recommend this book on the grounds that Will and Lizzy are strong and know what is important to them. They respect and care about each other enough to put the others feelings and dreams ahead of their own desires.
It's nice to see a YA book that shows you can find better happiness by making wise choices. I was very pleased that this young couple has the strength to look beyond the heat of the moment.
All I will say about the ending was that it was very sad and yet I was relieved.
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[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!!!!
Lizzy and Will are two amazing characters and is really easy to fall in love with them and their story.
Honestly before she explained him what the Knowers were i was thinking that be something like the movie that just came out, Divergent, with the different kink of people divided by Factions where you could not love someone outside of your own, but istead it was something totally different from the average teen book i have read and it was a surprise well welcomed.
Refreshing and up to date, it also has a little of advice in it for teens regarding an important thing. Like beauty of goodness and God.
But most of all i can't wait to read the second. The first chapter at the end of the first book really got me into it.
Well, to the people who want to read this book but are still undecided... Read this book!!! It's fresh and right for the young adult scene.

[Urban Fairy Godmother aka... Jolene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just when you think you've read every type of supernatural book there is & know everything there is to know about the topic, an author like Merry Brown surprises you with something new. I don't know what to say without ruining the surprise of what some of the people in this book are, but what I will say is that it surprised me & for as much stuff as I've read in this genre it takes a lot to surprise me. The book was a little slow at first, but that was only because the author is great at building her characters & getting you invested in who they are. This is the second book I've read that Ms. Brown has written, the first in the Exiled Trilogy, & I was just as happy with it as I was the last book I read. I am now a full fledged fan of Merry Brown books & I hope more people join me in my love for all she writes. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I liked hearing the whole dangerous love story from the guy's perspective. I found the invention of Lizzy's supernatural being a refreshing change from the onslaught of vampires and werewolves and witches. I also like the purity of Lizzy and Will's relationship and also found Lizzy's explanation of "safe" sex very on point with what teenagers need to know. I liked that the ending didn't leave you hanging. I actually find it very annoying to read thousands of words to come to the end and be left with a cliffhanger. I like that the author wrapped up things nicely for the main issue and left enough hanging in the balance to carry a trilogy. I would definitely recommend this read to friends. Waiting for book #2...

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Merry Brown for sending me a free autographed copy of your book.

I read one of the Merry Brown's other books called Ghost Manor Ghost House and I loved it so I was so excited to read this book. This book did not disappoint. I loved this book too.
I liked the storyline and the characters. It was a quick read, hard to put down. I cried several times while reading this book. I just feel so sad for Will, losing his Mother, Sister and then his Brother. Then having to live with his father. I won't say anything else, I don't want to give any spoilers.
I liked The Camping Trip, and the Holiday parts that Will spent with The Richardson's. Will is my favorite character. I loved Will and Lizzy as a couple. This is such a great book and I definitely recommend it.

[Crystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to say the ending was the best part of this book. Not that it was a terrible book but it wasn't as good as I thought it'd be. I still give it three stars though. Despite it being a slow read, and being way too drug out I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen to Will and Lizzy. Even though this wasn't the best book I've read I am going to read the next one because, not only do I want to know what happens with Will and Lizzy, I need to know now that I've spent time getting to know them. I did get this book from the author to read and review it and I am thankful she did because now I'm invested in it!

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

i received The Knowers(The Exiled Trilogy, #1) by Merry Brown yesterday. after opening the package i sat down to read the book. i was captured by the book almost from the first line. the books grabbed hold me and refused to let go til i had finished the book. there haven't been many books that keep me sitting til i've read the whole book. i loved the characters, the author really seems to like them so, she develops them very well. easy to read. page turner. interesting teens. the teens spoke like my grandson and his friends do. i just plain and simply enjoyed the book. can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy. i'm glad i read it.

[Ed · Rating 4 out of 5]

A YA love story with a definite supernatural twist. Protagonist Will pretty much despises his father. No one can be as bad as the man seems -- or can they? Then Will meets Lizzy. No one can be as good as she seems -- or can they? Although I'm not normally a fan of love stories, The Knowers shows that love can exceed the boundaries of teen angst, and that real love knows no bounds. And when the supernatural elements come to the fore, the book starts to shine.

A bit slow in places, but still -- 4 stars.

[Sierra · Rating 3 out of 5]

In terms of YA philosophical romance, I think The Knowers is one of the most original and interesting pieces I've picked up in years. While the plot progress is slow and the dialogue feels unnatural for teenagers for the most part, the concept itself is so full of potential that it's a page turner. Will is a relatable character and the Wraith Lord is an Umbridge-level villain. Seeing Christian myths used as inspiration for fictional that teaches morality and free will is an exciting new experience.

[Sarah Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.
I enjoyed the story so much that I couldn't put the book down! It had a very interesting twist on a popular story that I did not see coming. While I feel it is a clean read, the themes and some content are geared for a more mature audience, so it is rightly labeled as YA fiction. My only criticism is that, realistically, most young men simply do not have that much dialog. But then again, maybe that's its appeal!

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is really 3.5 stars. When I first started the book I had high hopes for it. Merry Brown set a solid setting mood and theme in the beginning. Toward the middle of the book the story was bogged down with the same thought for an entire chapter. That made me kind of frustrated. After things started being explained I understood, but the explanations were often long and hard to understand. The plot was still good, but as I said earlier this book was lacking a little something.

[Lori Duvall-Robertson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good read. It was not my favorite but not the worst I have read by far. I just did not fall in love with the characters or story the way I like to. So if you are between books and want a good read give it a try.

[Jacklynn Sizemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just amazing!!! I love Lizzy and Will! Together they are love and beauty. This book is I just could not put down I mean what and wonderful tale about the Garden and those evil wraiths let say I never want met one!!! This is a must read!!!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book! Amazing story line, and I just cannot wait to be able to read the next book in the series. You come to love the characters in this book and want to read more. This is one of those books that are worth staying up late at night and reading.

[Jill · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars...The 1st half was really good and kept me guessing. The 2nd half got a bit boring. It was ok. I think it could be categorized as Christian...it got a little religious for me. Overall, it was ok...super quick read.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young adult book. Exciting, different, interesting and yet clean while still feeling real and modern in a teens world.

[Merry Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say? This is my book and I love it! I hope you enjoy reading The Knowers too!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of fun! Can't wait to see what'll happen next!

[Lisa Smartt · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not often that my teenage son and I like the same book. "The Knowers" is that book. Good story telling. Enough action to keep the reader interested. Looking forward to the sequel!