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The Tree House #1
The Tree House
Hailey is an average twenty-year-old college student, living an average life. Or so she thought. When a past she never knew existed is brought to light, the reality she thought she knew is shattered and Hailey is left alone to pick up the pieces. Who could know this world holds such evil? Who is this strange, obscure boy that seems to know more than he is saying?
And what can one girl do when a fight to stay alive becomes a fight to avenge and protect the ones she loves?
And what can one girl do when a fight to stay alive becomes a fight to avenge and protect the ones she loves?
260 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2013
2 people are currently reading
448 people want to read
About the author
Shay Lynam
9 books111 followersShay Lynam is a writer, owner of a fandom-inspired candle business, mom, and wife. Whether writing a young adult thriller/romance or figuring out what scent would be perfect for a K-pop-inspired candle, she’s almost always finding ways to be creative. A NaNoWriMo rebel through and through, she usually tries to figure out unconventional ways to get to 50,000 words during the month, whether it be writing fanfiction, short stories, or choose-your-own-adventure novels. Shay has self-published multiple young adult books as well as contributed to a horror anthology. She lives near Seattle, Washington with her husband, three children, and about 36 houseplants. Follow her on Instagram @authorshaylynam
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 30, 2019
“Why are these guys chasing me?” I finally asked him. No-name turned his head and squinted his eyes at me. Almost like he had expected a more personal question. He opened his mouth to say something, then closed it again. A quiet chuckle escaped his throat. "You have no idea what you are."
― Shay Lynam, The Tree House
I try to express only my most honest opinion in a spoiler free way. If you feel anything in my review is a spoiler and is not already hidden in spoiler brackets please let me know. Thank you.
Photo credit to Architectism
In my head I pictured a beaten down building with the tree, but this was the closest I could find, and its a beautiful picture.
― Shay Lynam, The Tree House
I try to express only my most honest opinion in a spoiler free way. If you feel anything in my review is a spoiler and is not already hidden in spoiler brackets please let me know. Thank you.
Hailey is a 20 year old girl who's life was completely normal one minute and turned completely upside down the next. People are after her and obviously ready to kill, but she doesn't know why. She doesn't know if you her parents and brother are safe or even alive. Then she runs into a boy. He's around her age and not very like-able, but then he saves her a promises to take her somewhere safe. Somewhere with others also on the run. Its called the Tree House.
Photo credit to Architectism
In my head I pictured a beaten down building with the tree, but this was the closest I could find, and its a beautiful picture.
I liked it. Really I did and I finished it all in less than a day. I know this sounds like it should be rated higher, and I did consider giving it a 4 star rating, but I had some issues with it that I just couldn't get past. One is that the book likes to jump scenes without warning. Many times I had to stop and go back because I didn't know what was going on. There wasn't even a space between chapters (On the kindle version) to mark that the scene ended and that bugged me. Second is that even though I enjoyed the book enough at the time. It kind of forget-able and I'm not sure I even want to read the second book in the series at all. It a good book for a quick fun read that you will probably never really think twice about when its over.
How I choose my rating:
1* Did not finish, or hated it but forced myself to finish.
2** Didn't really like it. Didn't hate it but not sure why I finished it other then for some closure.
3*** I liked it. I had some issues with it, but as a whole it was good. I probably won't reread again ever, but there is a chance I might finish the series. (If part of one) But if not it's not a huge loss.
4**** I really liked this book. Maybe not a work of genius, but highly entertaining. I might reread this again, and I will finish the series. (If part of one) I would recommend to those I know hold interest in this books content.
5***** I loved this book. I found little to no issues with it at all. I will definitely be rereading this and probably more than once. I will finish the series and reread it multiple times. (If part of one) I will recommend this book to EVERYONE!!!!
January 21, 2014
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4 Stars for Sheer Creativity
This is a fast paced, action packed book, yet well balanced with the emotional aspects necessary to make you invested in the lives and wealth fare of the characters. In a world that looks very much like the one we currently inhabit, just a few twists have the potential to cause a cataclysmic future event horizon for the entire human species. This story is effective because it could easily happen, be happening, or have already happened if you are willing to stretch your mind and grab onto some strange form of conspiracy theory.
The characters are all different, and yet on many levels share so much, having been reduced to the core of themselves just to struggle to live, and fight, another day. While we get to know Hailey and Jack, as the two lead characters, there are a few others that played crucial roles. The fact that they weren't nearly as fully developed was frustrating, as their stories were sure to have been interesting, and would likely have served the larger story quite well. What could have been a richer tapestry was somehow muted by denying these comrade in arms their time to shine as well.
Clearly not everyone can be the focal point of the story, yet when there are so few characters to begin with it seems wasteful not to take full advantage of the potential arrayed before us. All that being said, I did enjoy this story a good bit. It was quick, some of the characters have wonderfully acerbic wit, and the plot was creative and entertaining. I guess because I enjoyed the characters as much as I did I felt cheated by not learning more of their stories. Additionally I was confused by the intense focus on Hailey in the beginning, almost as if she was the linchpin of some master plan that she was completely unaware of. And in some ways I suppose that she was, just not in the ways the author had set me up to expect. The jury is still out on my final reaction to that particular portion of the story.
I will say that this is a very fast read, easily a one-sitting read, thanks to the non-stop tone set from the very beginning of the story. It is filled with rich characters, some of whom should have been more fully realized for my tastes. But then who am I too say which characters were leads and which were understudies? Oh yeah, I'm the one reading the story. My only other issue came down to things that were unexplained, such as where certain characters got their training from at such a young age, and how a notorious fugitive's credit cards could repeatedly be used for supplies and other items without leading the bad guys straight back to the fugitive(s). But if those are my main take-away irritants, I still put the book into the win column.
Hailey is an average twenty-year-old college student, living an average life. Or so she thought. When a past she never knew existed is brought to light, the reality she thought she knew is shattered and she is left alone to pick up the pieces. Who could know this world holds such evil? Who is this strange, obscure boy who seems to know more than he is saying?
And what can one girl do when a fight to stay alive turns into a fight to avenge and protect the ones she loves?
This is a fast paced, action packed book, yet well balanced with the emotional aspects necessary to make you invested in the lives and wealth fare of the characters. In a world that looks very much like the one we currently inhabit, just a few twists have the potential to cause a cataclysmic future event horizon for the entire human species. This story is effective because it could easily happen, be happening, or have already happened if you are willing to stretch your mind and grab onto some strange form of conspiracy theory.
The characters are all different, and yet on many levels share so much, having been reduced to the core of themselves just to struggle to live, and fight, another day. While we get to know Hailey and Jack, as the two lead characters, there are a few others that played crucial roles. The fact that they weren't nearly as fully developed was frustrating, as their stories were sure to have been interesting, and would likely have served the larger story quite well. What could have been a richer tapestry was somehow muted by denying these comrade in arms their time to shine as well.
Clearly not everyone can be the focal point of the story, yet when there are so few characters to begin with it seems wasteful not to take full advantage of the potential arrayed before us. All that being said, I did enjoy this story a good bit. It was quick, some of the characters have wonderfully acerbic wit, and the plot was creative and entertaining. I guess because I enjoyed the characters as much as I did I felt cheated by not learning more of their stories. Additionally I was confused by the intense focus on Hailey in the beginning, almost as if she was the linchpin of some master plan that she was completely unaware of. And in some ways I suppose that she was, just not in the ways the author had set me up to expect. The jury is still out on my final reaction to that particular portion of the story.
I will say that this is a very fast read, easily a one-sitting read, thanks to the non-stop tone set from the very beginning of the story. It is filled with rich characters, some of whom should have been more fully realized for my tastes. But then who am I too say which characters were leads and which were understudies? Oh yeah, I'm the one reading the story. My only other issue came down to things that were unexplained, such as where certain characters got their training from at such a young age, and how a notorious fugitive's credit cards could repeatedly be used for supplies and other items without leading the bad guys straight back to the fugitive(s). But if those are my main take-away irritants, I still put the book into the win column.
June 18, 2015
**** 4.5 Cranky Stars ****
The Tree House, YA-contemporary, starts at a break neck pace and never quits. We meet Hailey, the main female protagonist, facing off with gunmen for reasons unknown.
Fleeing, she’s in danger. Her family is in danger. Her brother is missing and everything she knew about her life is a myth.
Answers and potential safety lie in Seattle at the eponymous Tree House. There starts Hailey’s journey of discovery of herself, her personal history, and a group of people that share a similar fate.
Along the way, Hayley encounters Jack. He’s brash, battle-hardened, and a reluctant hero, who has secrets of his own.
There is a lot to like about this book: the pace that never gives up, the characters (main, secondary, and fleeting), the way mysteries and secrets unfold. I sat down and read this book from start to finish in one night.
The one criticism I have is I found the science a bit questionable. I do not think this undermines the story, nor makes it any less compelling, but I thought it might have worked well in a more futuristic setting than contemporary.
The Tree House ends with questions remaining and I have already downloaded the next work, The Trial, to read in the series.
Recommended!
The Tree House, YA-contemporary, starts at a break neck pace and never quits. We meet Hailey, the main female protagonist, facing off with gunmen for reasons unknown.
Fleeing, she’s in danger. Her family is in danger. Her brother is missing and everything she knew about her life is a myth.
Answers and potential safety lie in Seattle at the eponymous Tree House. There starts Hailey’s journey of discovery of herself, her personal history, and a group of people that share a similar fate.
Along the way, Hayley encounters Jack. He’s brash, battle-hardened, and a reluctant hero, who has secrets of his own.
There is a lot to like about this book: the pace that never gives up, the characters (main, secondary, and fleeting), the way mysteries and secrets unfold. I sat down and read this book from start to finish in one night.
The one criticism I have is I found the science a bit questionable. I do not think this undermines the story, nor makes it any less compelling, but I thought it might have worked well in a more futuristic setting than contemporary.
The Tree House ends with questions remaining and I have already downloaded the next work, The Trial, to read in the series.
Recommended!
May 24, 2013
I absolutely loved this book! It was a refreshing story that not only kept my interest, but definitely kept me wanting more. The characters were interesting and the twists and turns were fantastic! I had a difficult time putting it down and, even with this book finished, am still looking forward to more!
May 21, 2013
This book was amazing from the first sentence to the very end! It was definitely a page turner and kept me at the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next installment of The Tree House saga! Keep it coming!
August 13, 2013
*I received a copy of this book from the author via International YA Book Club for Girls in exchange for an honest review*
After I finished this book I struggled trying to figure out how I felt about it. I had planned throughout my reading of it to give it 3 stars. In the end I chose to give it 4. The beginning was a bit weird for me. Hailey's house is broken into. Her parents either killed or abducted. She escapes and flees her hometown thinking that she will find safety in the big city of Seattle. Along the way she runs into Jack. Upon meeting for the first time they are extremely snarky to each other which I thought was strange. While talking in a diner the men who ransack her house show up. Again. And again. And again. The snarkiness and the constant action in the beginning of the book made me a little wary to continue. I was however, pleasantly surprised. About a 1/4 of the way into the book the author seemed to hit her stride. The relationships and bonds formed in this book are a joy to experience. I really enjoyed the twists and turns and surprises that the author treats you to towards the end. And speaking of the ending....wow! For me the ending was definitely worth the extra star which turned this review from a 3 star to a 4 star. As I said, in the beginning I wasn't really into this book and felt like I was only reading it because I promised a review. However, I found that I actually really liked it. I look forward to continuing the journey with Jack, and Hailey, and Ben. Great first novel for this author. Looking forward to what comes next!
After I finished this book I struggled trying to figure out how I felt about it. I had planned throughout my reading of it to give it 3 stars. In the end I chose to give it 4. The beginning was a bit weird for me. Hailey's house is broken into. Her parents either killed or abducted. She escapes and flees her hometown thinking that she will find safety in the big city of Seattle. Along the way she runs into Jack. Upon meeting for the first time they are extremely snarky to each other which I thought was strange. While talking in a diner the men who ransack her house show up. Again. And again. And again. The snarkiness and the constant action in the beginning of the book made me a little wary to continue. I was however, pleasantly surprised. About a 1/4 of the way into the book the author seemed to hit her stride. The relationships and bonds formed in this book are a joy to experience. I really enjoyed the twists and turns and surprises that the author treats you to towards the end. And speaking of the ending....wow! For me the ending was definitely worth the extra star which turned this review from a 3 star to a 4 star. As I said, in the beginning I wasn't really into this book and felt like I was only reading it because I promised a review. However, I found that I actually really liked it. I look forward to continuing the journey with Jack, and Hailey, and Ben. Great first novel for this author. Looking forward to what comes next!
August 4, 2014
The Tree House is not what it seems. Hailey, the young woman the story centers around, is also not what she seems. The story starts out with a bang, as she has to go on the run in Seattle after gunmen come after her. Without giving away too much of the plot, I'll say that I really enjoyed the scientific twists and turns as well as the thriller aspect of this book. The length was just about right for telling the story completely, but I do wish some of the secondary characters had been fleshed out a bit more.
All in all, Ms Lynam has written a really interesting tale that will keep your interest!
*I received a gift copy of this work in exchange for my fair and honest review*
All in all, Ms Lynam has written a really interesting tale that will keep your interest!
*I received a gift copy of this work in exchange for my fair and honest review*
May 17, 2013
This book was exciting from the first page until the last!! I really had a hard time putting it down! It is original, different, and the writing is spectacular! Shay had my attention the whole time. I loved every character she brought into the story. The twists were great and made the story even more exciting, sometimes painful. The romance was beautiful, just the right amount.
I can't wait to read more from this author.
I can't wait to read more from this author.
May 24, 2013
I totally agree with other reviewers when they say they felt like they were watching a movie in their head and almost forgot they were reading it and not actually living it. This book grabbed me and sucked me in from the very beginning. This writer is going to do amazing things and I am very excited to read her next book.
May 27, 2013
This book was action packed from start to finish, with lovely hints of romance woven into its interesting storyline. If you want a book that keeps you engaged throughout, this is the book for you. Check it out!
May 22, 2013
I am an avid reader...I download a lot of books .... this was definitely one of I could not put down until it was finished. It was done and I couldn't wait until I found out more. First time author with so much potential.
August 20, 2015
I could not put this book down, there is something exciting on every page! This is a great book for absolutely everyone! I loved how developed the characters were, it was like watching a movie in my head. :-)
May 24, 2013
This story was so well developed that it grabbed me from the get go! I had a hard time remembering that I was reading the story and not living it! So excited to read more from this author!
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November 18, 2014Here's The Tree House book trailer for anyone that wants to see it.
June 17, 2013
There are some truly unique gems in the self-publishing industry, and The Tree House is definitely one of them. I had a hard time putting this one down, and right now, I'm having a hard time putting this review together to fully express my feelings for this book. I am head over heels in love with it. It was.... wow. I fully expected something predictable, something I always come across, something I would easily get bored with, but there was none of that. This book hit home-run about tens time.
At first, the start of the book was 'eh, it's okay'. Hailey's home is broken into and her parents yell at her to run, so she does. The story instantly picks up speed. Hailey is chased by two men in suits, who are pointing guns at her head. She ends up being saved by this No-Name stranger with lovely eyes. And at that exact point where Hailey meets No-Name, I thought the book would fall into the usual romantic cliche. She met her handsome Prince Charming and they rode off into the sunset. Woohoo. Are we done now?
I was wrong. TOTALLY wrong. So take it from me: Do NOT judge this book by the first ten pages. It gets good. Really good.
I was expecting a Disney 'they lived happily ever after' with some random singing and nice choreography and a whole lot of kissing. Well, I got the kissing part, but this pure blood, sweat, and tears all over the place. Definitely not Disney's style. This had the gripping suspense of the best action movies I've seen (and that's saying something). The book takes over a time span of about two weeks and a lot of things happen during these two weeks. It moves lightning quick, but Shay Lynam definitely knows how to pace herself.
Hailey is 100% human and so is everyone else (just thought I'd point that out), they were just not supposed live through their birth. So Eli Scott created a special chip to keep these types of children alive. It was brilliant, the miracle of all miracles and it was going to sell for millions, until the chip started to malfunction and all these children (now adults) began to die horrible deaths. He didn't want people suing him so what did he do? He contracted a couple of killers and sent them out to get rid of the evidence. Luckily for Hailey, Jack (who I will now call 'The Maelstrom of Emotions') finds her and... well, Hailey sort of forces him to help her. She's a tough girl like that.
""You sound like an impatient child on a car ride," Jack chuckled from a few steps behind me.
That was the last straw. I whipped around grabbing him by the front of his shirt and pushed him hard up against the wall. "That's it!" A look of sheer astonishment broke out across Jack's face as I leaned in close so our noses were almost touching. "You will tell me what is going on," I spat staring hard into his eyes. " -location 695 of 4722 of Kindle
Hailey is a fierce and utterly unpredictable girl. She cries a lot, but under the circumstance, who wouldn't? So many terrible things happen to her. Gosh, I don't even know how she kept going. Shay Lynam had no mercy on her, she was constantly facing some sort of obstacle whether it was a gunman or Jack or her own brother. I do admire her, not only because of her emotional strength, but because she remained levelheaded even when she had all the reasons not to.
Jack (The Maelstrom of Emotions) was... a maelstrom of emotions. He could make me giddy, depressed, and ready to shoot his head off all in one. He had this bipolar thing going on (or maybe it's an all guy thing) where he acted like he hated Hailey when he was actually crushing on her. To put it short, he could get under anyone's skin. He wasn't a 'swoon-worthy' guy, he was just inevitable and captivating. The sort of guy you know is bad but you just can't look away from.
Their relationship was complicated. It was perfect really. They were both angry and hurt and they needed someone to look after them even if they didn't know it.
Story-wise, people die in this book. I know that sounds like a stupid observation, but I really got to know the characters and I actually felt connected to them. I cared about them. And then...
Overall, I LOVED The Tree House. There were a lot of grammatical and spelling errors, but I soon found myself flying past those. The story was fast and furious and I was in for a lot of surprises.
Do I recommend it? Oh. Yeah.
At first, the start of the book was 'eh, it's okay'. Hailey's home is broken into and her parents yell at her to run, so she does. The story instantly picks up speed. Hailey is chased by two men in suits, who are pointing guns at her head. She ends up being saved by this No-Name stranger with lovely eyes. And at that exact point where Hailey meets No-Name, I thought the book would fall into the usual romantic cliche. She met her handsome Prince Charming and they rode off into the sunset. Woohoo. Are we done now?
I was wrong. TOTALLY wrong. So take it from me: Do NOT judge this book by the first ten pages. It gets good. Really good.
I was expecting a Disney 'they lived happily ever after' with some random singing and nice choreography and a whole lot of kissing. Well, I got the kissing part, but this pure blood, sweat, and tears all over the place. Definitely not Disney's style. This had the gripping suspense of the best action movies I've seen (and that's saying something). The book takes over a time span of about two weeks and a lot of things happen during these two weeks. It moves lightning quick, but Shay Lynam definitely knows how to pace herself.
Hailey is 100% human and so is everyone else (just thought I'd point that out), they were just not supposed live through their birth. So Eli Scott created a special chip to keep these types of children alive. It was brilliant, the miracle of all miracles and it was going to sell for millions, until the chip started to malfunction and all these children (now adults) began to die horrible deaths. He didn't want people suing him so what did he do? He contracted a couple of killers and sent them out to get rid of the evidence. Luckily for Hailey, Jack (who I will now call 'The Maelstrom of Emotions') finds her and... well, Hailey sort of forces him to help her. She's a tough girl like that.
""You sound like an impatient child on a car ride," Jack chuckled from a few steps behind me.
That was the last straw. I whipped around grabbing him by the front of his shirt and pushed him hard up against the wall. "That's it!" A look of sheer astonishment broke out across Jack's face as I leaned in close so our noses were almost touching. "You will tell me what is going on," I spat staring hard into his eyes. " -location 695 of 4722 of Kindle
Hailey is a fierce and utterly unpredictable girl. She cries a lot, but under the circumstance, who wouldn't? So many terrible things happen to her. Gosh, I don't even know how she kept going. Shay Lynam had no mercy on her, she was constantly facing some sort of obstacle whether it was a gunman or Jack or her own brother. I do admire her, not only because of her emotional strength, but because she remained levelheaded even when she had all the reasons not to.
Jack (The Maelstrom of Emotions) was... a maelstrom of emotions. He could make me giddy, depressed, and ready to shoot his head off all in one. He had this bipolar thing going on (or maybe it's an all guy thing) where he acted like he hated Hailey when he was actually crushing on her. To put it short, he could get under anyone's skin. He wasn't a 'swoon-worthy' guy, he was just inevitable and captivating. The sort of guy you know is bad but you just can't look away from.
Their relationship was complicated. It was perfect really. They were both angry and hurt and they needed someone to look after them even if they didn't know it.
Story-wise, people die in this book. I know that sounds like a stupid observation, but I really got to know the characters and I actually felt connected to them. I cared about them. And then...
Overall, I LOVED The Tree House. There were a lot of grammatical and spelling errors, but I soon found myself flying past those. The story was fast and furious and I was in for a lot of surprises.
Do I recommend it? Oh. Yeah.
May 29, 2014
“One second, I’m sitting in my room working on a paper for my Psychology class and in the next second, I’ve crammed myself into the crawl space behind my bed hearing the scared screams of my parents downstairs.”
From the opening sentence of THE TREE HOUSE by Shay Lynam, I was hooked. The author has created a very unique and captivating dystopian tale, which I think readers young and old will enjoy. The story focuses on the adventures of a twenty-year old college students whose life is jolted through tragedy. With the help of other survivors at a safe house called the Tree House, she begins to confront mysteries from her past and combat the evil ones trying to hunt and capture her.
One of the strengths of this novel is the pacing. The story had a great balance between action and emotional elements. I never felt like there was a dull moment or like the story dragged on. I finished it in only a couple days. It was much like a rollercoaster ride with some unpredictable twists. The environments were vividly described, with just the right amount of details. Lynam’s passion for her material was obvious in her writing, and there was urgency in the pages. I also feel the overall message of this tale is very relevant to current social issues. There were some really interesting ideas in this book.
Another strength to THE TREE HOUSE was the lead character Hailey. She was captivating and multi-faceted. She felt like a real person -- which is really the highest praise I can give about a fictional person. At times, I felt like I was really inside her head and heart. She had many different layers. I think the author did an excellent job conveying this character’s emotions through descriptive actions, rather than just saying someone was angry or sad. I enjoyed the interjection of humor in some of the moments of great tension. These small touches by the author made those scenes and characters seem that much more real.
With all this good, I did have some gripes with the novel. Outside of Hailey, I didn’t think the other characters were fully developed enough. Unfortunately, the one that was – Jack – I wish there was less of. As much as I tried to give Jack a chance (due to his tormented past), I ultimately just found him really annoying and to be too much of a “jerk”. Now, I’m not saying every character should be super likeable. However, a large part of The Tree House evolves around the budding relationship between Hailey and Jack. I had trouble buying into this aspect of the story, and it felt odd when Hailey became smitten with the male lead. To me, this romantic angle felt forced rather than happening organically. This detracted from my enjoyment of an otherwise excellent tale. Perhaps you will feel differently about Jack. You should definitely read the book for yourself and make your own judgments!
My last gripe would be that the Pharmaceutical antagonists, lead by the infamous Eli, weren’t as imposing as I would have wished. After the first riveting and harrowing scene, at times, the bad guys - including the henchmen - seemed to be too easily outsmarted and outgunned. After the midway point, I didn’t feel like the bad guys were enough of a threat. I wondered how the group of ragtag survivors at the Tree House could be better prepared than such a “powerful” organization?
With all that said, I really enjoyed THE TREE HOUSE. It all leads to a really powerful ending that kept taking me by surprise with twist after twist. I was left eager for more to Hailey's tale. The message behind the characters' travails also resonated with me and made me think about what is really going on or could be going on in our world today.
Overall, this is an excellent beginning to the trilogy.
From the opening sentence of THE TREE HOUSE by Shay Lynam, I was hooked. The author has created a very unique and captivating dystopian tale, which I think readers young and old will enjoy. The story focuses on the adventures of a twenty-year old college students whose life is jolted through tragedy. With the help of other survivors at a safe house called the Tree House, she begins to confront mysteries from her past and combat the evil ones trying to hunt and capture her.
One of the strengths of this novel is the pacing. The story had a great balance between action and emotional elements. I never felt like there was a dull moment or like the story dragged on. I finished it in only a couple days. It was much like a rollercoaster ride with some unpredictable twists. The environments were vividly described, with just the right amount of details. Lynam’s passion for her material was obvious in her writing, and there was urgency in the pages. I also feel the overall message of this tale is very relevant to current social issues. There were some really interesting ideas in this book.
Another strength to THE TREE HOUSE was the lead character Hailey. She was captivating and multi-faceted. She felt like a real person -- which is really the highest praise I can give about a fictional person. At times, I felt like I was really inside her head and heart. She had many different layers. I think the author did an excellent job conveying this character’s emotions through descriptive actions, rather than just saying someone was angry or sad. I enjoyed the interjection of humor in some of the moments of great tension. These small touches by the author made those scenes and characters seem that much more real.
With all this good, I did have some gripes with the novel. Outside of Hailey, I didn’t think the other characters were fully developed enough. Unfortunately, the one that was – Jack – I wish there was less of. As much as I tried to give Jack a chance (due to his tormented past), I ultimately just found him really annoying and to be too much of a “jerk”. Now, I’m not saying every character should be super likeable. However, a large part of The Tree House evolves around the budding relationship between Hailey and Jack. I had trouble buying into this aspect of the story, and it felt odd when Hailey became smitten with the male lead. To me, this romantic angle felt forced rather than happening organically. This detracted from my enjoyment of an otherwise excellent tale. Perhaps you will feel differently about Jack. You should definitely read the book for yourself and make your own judgments!
My last gripe would be that the Pharmaceutical antagonists, lead by the infamous Eli, weren’t as imposing as I would have wished. After the first riveting and harrowing scene, at times, the bad guys - including the henchmen - seemed to be too easily outsmarted and outgunned. After the midway point, I didn’t feel like the bad guys were enough of a threat. I wondered how the group of ragtag survivors at the Tree House could be better prepared than such a “powerful” organization?
With all that said, I really enjoyed THE TREE HOUSE. It all leads to a really powerful ending that kept taking me by surprise with twist after twist. I was left eager for more to Hailey's tale. The message behind the characters' travails also resonated with me and made me think about what is really going on or could be going on in our world today.
Overall, this is an excellent beginning to the trilogy.
August 13, 2013
The story starts off when two mysterious gunmen burst into twenty year old Hailey’s house and try to kidnap her. She has no clue yet as to why they are after her. But as her dad’s last words ring in her ears, yelling at her to run, she barely manages to escape and flee into downtown Seattle.
While running she stumbles into a mysterious stranger, who at first won’t even give her so much as his name. But he finally gives in after helping her escape and also informs her as to who is after her and why. Now formally introduced, Jack takes her to the Tree House, where there are others, as well as Sy, the “head of the household”.
Now, when I first heard the title, The Tree House, my first thought was a tree house? What kind of book is this? I of course thought of a kids tree in a house. But no, that is not the case here. In fact, the Tree House is in fact an old condemned house, with a massive tree that grew up through the concrete and throughout the building. Kind of cool, huh?
All of these young adults at the Tree House are survivors, of a mass science experiment gone awry. This is about where I got a little lost, or confused. E. Scott Pharmaceuticals is headed by Eli Scott, a medical genius gone loco. Back in the ‘90s he experimented with newborns that were infected with neonatal tetanus, which was contracted in infants born into a non-sterile environment.
To solve the problem, the company inserted microchips into their brains to fight off the infection. The children were then placed in foster homes to be monitored. This all seems really crazy to me. Chips to fight infections? Odd, but I kind of like it, cause it’s different as well. After all, it is a book, right?
This brings us to the why the company is now chasing everyone down. As with most crazy science experiments, something went wrong. The chips started failing. So instead of being held responsible, they decide to get rid of all the patients. So they decide to fight back or die trying.
This book was riveting in the sense I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t wait to find out more. And based on the ending, I hope that there might be another book, to see what happens next, what course of action Jack and Hailey take, and if there will be more romance between the two. I finished this book pretty quickly, and I love books that are fast paced. Parts of it seemed a little forced in a sense it seemed. Hard to explain really, you will have to read it for yourself. While I do recommend this book, for some I am giving it 4 stars, I couldn’t do a full 5. But definitely read it for yourself.
While running she stumbles into a mysterious stranger, who at first won’t even give her so much as his name. But he finally gives in after helping her escape and also informs her as to who is after her and why. Now formally introduced, Jack takes her to the Tree House, where there are others, as well as Sy, the “head of the household”.
Now, when I first heard the title, The Tree House, my first thought was a tree house? What kind of book is this? I of course thought of a kids tree in a house. But no, that is not the case here. In fact, the Tree House is in fact an old condemned house, with a massive tree that grew up through the concrete and throughout the building. Kind of cool, huh?
All of these young adults at the Tree House are survivors, of a mass science experiment gone awry. This is about where I got a little lost, or confused. E. Scott Pharmaceuticals is headed by Eli Scott, a medical genius gone loco. Back in the ‘90s he experimented with newborns that were infected with neonatal tetanus, which was contracted in infants born into a non-sterile environment.
To solve the problem, the company inserted microchips into their brains to fight off the infection. The children were then placed in foster homes to be monitored. This all seems really crazy to me. Chips to fight infections? Odd, but I kind of like it, cause it’s different as well. After all, it is a book, right?
This brings us to the why the company is now chasing everyone down. As with most crazy science experiments, something went wrong. The chips started failing. So instead of being held responsible, they decide to get rid of all the patients. So they decide to fight back or die trying.
This book was riveting in the sense I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t wait to find out more. And based on the ending, I hope that there might be another book, to see what happens next, what course of action Jack and Hailey take, and if there will be more romance between the two. I finished this book pretty quickly, and I love books that are fast paced. Parts of it seemed a little forced in a sense it seemed. Hard to explain really, you will have to read it for yourself. While I do recommend this book, for some I am giving it 4 stars, I couldn’t do a full 5. But definitely read it for yourself.
July 10, 2016
When two mysterious gunmen break into Hailey’s house and try to kidnap her, she just barely manages to avoid capture by fleeing into the maze of downtown Seattle. As the armed agents close in, she runs into a young man named Jack, who not only helps her escape, but also knows why she’s being pursued. Enter Sy, Jack’s superior, and the other members of the Tree House. What is the Tree House, you ask? Well, it’s certainly not the condemned building it seems to be (even though it does have a tree growing through its cement floor). Those who live in the Tree House are survivors—just like Hailey—in a massive science experiment gone awry.
Back in the 1990s, E. Scott Pharmaceuticals, headed by medical genius Eli Scott, experimented with newborns around the world that had been infected with neonatal tetanus, a disease contracted by infants when they are born into a non-sterile environment. To solve the problem, the company inserted a microchip into the infants’ brains in order to fight off the infection. Then, instead of sending the children back home to their parents, they were placed in the care of foster families so the company could monitor their progress. When something about the experiment went drastically wrong, the company made the decision to scrap both the project and its test subjects (hence, the chase-scene).
While The Tree House has plenty of action and romantic tension, the characters are flat, and the premise itself is, I’m sorry to say, illogical. Why would anyone use microchips to fight off tetanus? It’s a bacteria. There’s a shot for it. If there has to be experimental microchips involved, why not have the company focus on something neurological, like Parkinson’s? Also, why the need for secrecy? If the company is breaking human rights laws, why perform these experiments in the United States? Why not hold them in a third world country with where people can be bribed to look the other way? The Tree House is a problematic novel that still needs a lot of work, and is unfortunately one that I can’t really recommend to readers at this time.
Back in the 1990s, E. Scott Pharmaceuticals, headed by medical genius Eli Scott, experimented with newborns around the world that had been infected with neonatal tetanus, a disease contracted by infants when they are born into a non-sterile environment. To solve the problem, the company inserted a microchip into the infants’ brains in order to fight off the infection. Then, instead of sending the children back home to their parents, they were placed in the care of foster families so the company could monitor their progress. When something about the experiment went drastically wrong, the company made the decision to scrap both the project and its test subjects (hence, the chase-scene).
While The Tree House has plenty of action and romantic tension, the characters are flat, and the premise itself is, I’m sorry to say, illogical. Why would anyone use microchips to fight off tetanus? It’s a bacteria. There’s a shot for it. If there has to be experimental microchips involved, why not have the company focus on something neurological, like Parkinson’s? Also, why the need for secrecy? If the company is breaking human rights laws, why perform these experiments in the United States? Why not hold them in a third world country with where people can be bribed to look the other way? The Tree House is a problematic novel that still needs a lot of work, and is unfortunately one that I can’t really recommend to readers at this time.
September 23, 2013
*I recieved a free ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review in conjunction with International Girls YA Book Club.*
I went into reading this book wanting to love it. I read so many great reviews, that I was convinced I would, but it wasn't the fast paced read I was hoping for. The plot was good, the storyline was easy to follow and the ending was a twist I wasn't expecting. What turned me off from the book was the extensive editing errors. The story has odd spacing between sentences (double spaced in between each sentence), unfinished sentences (they were cut off), grammatical errors and the authors name was all throughout the book in odd places. Also, there were quite a few times that the author would change scenes so quickly that it could have used some type of divider to let you know another scene change was happening. I didn't really feel the book really "got interesting" until about 1/2 way through. Overall, the book was just okay. I may have felt differently about the book if the editing had been better. I'm not sure that I would recommend this novel.
*Added 9/23/13*
Author mentioned that book has been re-edited since I've read/reviewed it. Again, it wasn't that I hated the book, my copy just had editing issues. If you are looking for a sci-fi/mystery read, try this book out.
I went into reading this book wanting to love it. I read so many great reviews, that I was convinced I would, but it wasn't the fast paced read I was hoping for. The plot was good, the storyline was easy to follow and the ending was a twist I wasn't expecting. What turned me off from the book was the extensive editing errors. The story has odd spacing between sentences (double spaced in between each sentence), unfinished sentences (they were cut off), grammatical errors and the authors name was all throughout the book in odd places. Also, there were quite a few times that the author would change scenes so quickly that it could have used some type of divider to let you know another scene change was happening. I didn't really feel the book really "got interesting" until about 1/2 way through. Overall, the book was just okay. I may have felt differently about the book if the editing had been better. I'm not sure that I would recommend this novel.
*Added 9/23/13*
Author mentioned that book has been re-edited since I've read/reviewed it. Again, it wasn't that I hated the book, my copy just had editing issues. If you are looking for a sci-fi/mystery read, try this book out.
April 2, 2014
I had a really enjoyable time reading this book. I was pulled in immediately and found myself wrapped up in the story.
Hailey is a twenty something student who is almost immediately thrown into something she (and you) don't understand. Someone breaks into her house, her parents are most likely dead, and she's on the run from "suits" who seem to want to kill her, or at the very least, take her somewhere that she has a pretty good idea she doesn't want to go. A very short time later, she meets Jack, who from the get-go seems like a jerk, but at least he's a jerk who's semi-willing to help her.
Jack takes her to the Tree House, a safe house. This is where the story really takes off. Hailey finds out that she's part of this big science experiment gone wrong, basically, and all the suits want to take her, and the other survivors, back to the E. Scott Pharmaceuticals building and "fix" the problem.
I'm finding it difficult to say much more than that without ruining this review with spoilers, but suffice to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I thought Lynam did a fantastic job creating a believable, intense story. So much so, when you get to the end, your jaw will drop and you'll immediately want a sequel!
Hailey is a twenty something student who is almost immediately thrown into something she (and you) don't understand. Someone breaks into her house, her parents are most likely dead, and she's on the run from "suits" who seem to want to kill her, or at the very least, take her somewhere that she has a pretty good idea she doesn't want to go. A very short time later, she meets Jack, who from the get-go seems like a jerk, but at least he's a jerk who's semi-willing to help her.
Jack takes her to the Tree House, a safe house. This is where the story really takes off. Hailey finds out that she's part of this big science experiment gone wrong, basically, and all the suits want to take her, and the other survivors, back to the E. Scott Pharmaceuticals building and "fix" the problem.
I'm finding it difficult to say much more than that without ruining this review with spoilers, but suffice to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I thought Lynam did a fantastic job creating a believable, intense story. So much so, when you get to the end, your jaw will drop and you'll immediately want a sequel!
November 11, 2015
The Tree House by Shay Lynam is an exciting read, to say the least. I literally read the first page and was hooked on the book from there. Due to life's duties, which would've rather ignored, I had to go a couple days between reading about half of the book. I thought about it everyday while I couldn't read it.
There was tons of action and suspense mixed with the perfect amount of a tortured romance. I loved Jack. I think he was by far my favorite character.
Lynam did a wonderful job building the tension in the story and creating characters you can get attached to easily. I will warn you, your heart will be broken by the end of this book.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and that she took the time to follow the basic rules of writing, which many do not do anymore. Some of the scenes in this book were very poetic and I found the entire book well written.
The story is unique and captivating. Great read! Thank you!
**I received a free copy of this book from the author, in exchange for my honest review.**
There was tons of action and suspense mixed with the perfect amount of a tortured romance. I loved Jack. I think he was by far my favorite character.
Lynam did a wonderful job building the tension in the story and creating characters you can get attached to easily. I will warn you, your heart will be broken by the end of this book.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and that she took the time to follow the basic rules of writing, which many do not do anymore. Some of the scenes in this book were very poetic and I found the entire book well written.
The story is unique and captivating. Great read! Thank you!
**I received a free copy of this book from the author, in exchange for my honest review.**
July 30, 2014
**Copy from author for an honest review**
OMG!!! I am speechless!! Such an amazing and suspenseful story. Shay Lynam has a way of writing that will keep you on the edge of your seat and scared to blink in fear of missing something. I found myself at times literally holding my breath in anticipation of what was going to happen next. Great story of loss, friendship, love, and courage.
Shay Lynam is an amazing author that will captivate your attention from the first page. I honestly hated to put this book down when I had to work or take care of family. I could truly feel what the characters were feeling and felt like I was there with them. I would whole heartily recommend this book to everyone.
OMG!!! I am speechless!! Such an amazing and suspenseful story. Shay Lynam has a way of writing that will keep you on the edge of your seat and scared to blink in fear of missing something. I found myself at times literally holding my breath in anticipation of what was going to happen next. Great story of loss, friendship, love, and courage.
Shay Lynam is an amazing author that will captivate your attention from the first page. I honestly hated to put this book down when I had to work or take care of family. I could truly feel what the characters were feeling and felt like I was there with them. I would whole heartily recommend this book to everyone.
May 28, 2013
WOW!!! all i can say is that this book is unlike somethings i have ever read before. After you read one chapter you just have to keep reading more and more because of the suspicion and intensity to find out what is going to happen next. I felt almost as if a movie was playing in my head and i could see all the characters do certain actions because of how so descriptive Shay Lynam is. I believe this author has much potential for more readings to come and i cannot wait till the next part of the Tree House series is on our bookshelf. I had given this book a 5 star and was begging for more at the end. well done!
September 23, 2014
*I received this book from the author for an honest review*
I really enjoyed this book! It was full of action, has some violence, and is unpredictable. The book starts off in an intense setting and there is never a slow moment.
The one issue I had with this book was the beginning where Hailey's house is broken into. I do not understand why she did not call the police! Any normal person would call the police, and it never even crossed her mind!
Besides that, I really loved this book. The plot was original and there was never a dull moment. The characters were all very interesting and enjoyable to read about, and the ending was unexpected, making room for a sequel.
I really enjoyed this book! It was full of action, has some violence, and is unpredictable. The book starts off in an intense setting and there is never a slow moment.
The one issue I had with this book was the beginning where Hailey's house is broken into. I do not understand why she did not call the police! Any normal person would call the police, and it never even crossed her mind!
Besides that, I really loved this book. The plot was original and there was never a dull moment. The characters were all very interesting and enjoyable to read about, and the ending was unexpected, making room for a sequel.
June 11, 2015
I cannot tell you how talented this author is! This book had a great plot, twists, and turns!! Found several parts unpredictable. I will note there were a few weaknesses in the accuracy of a few key details, but it isn't enough to inhibit the overall idea. I read this book with a book club and we absolutely fell in love with the characters. As part of a series, most things were resolved at the end (so not a big cliffhanger). Dying to read book 2 after loving this one! You can bet I'll be watching the future for more writing.
May 24, 2014
The Tree House captures your attention from the beginning and never let’s it go. It’s a well balanced, fast paced, action packed unpredictable read. It caught me completely off guard. The plot was fantastic, it had some terrific twists and turns. The writing style was very relaxed, the words flowed smoothly. The characters were very well written. Lynam takes a lot of risks and it definitely pays off. I highly recommend reading this book if you haven’t read it yet.
November 26, 2014
This book turned out to be not what I was expecting, in a good way. The Tree House was something I had never read before and I really enjoyed it. I absolutely loved the characters and how they dealt with the situations that were thrown at them. The writing brought out emotions, which I love when reading a book. I laughed at some moments and I even had my heart broken at others. I am really hoping for a second book so I can find out what happens next for these characters.
July 10, 2014
This is the first book I have read by Shay Lynam. I found it interesting. Hailey learns that she was part of a medical experiment when she was born. This book caught my attention right from the start. There is a lot of suspense and action that keeps the story moving. A hard to put down book. I will certainly be checking out this author's other books.
July 12, 2014
The Tree House is an interesting and exhilarating journey through the lives of a group of characters who are fighting for survival and truth. Every chapter is gripping and takes the reader on an emotional journey. From the time I opened this book I was drawn in and unable to put it down. I highly recommend this book to anyone. I am very excited to read more by this author.
October 7, 2014
Amazing
I bought this book because I know the author. I was interested to see if she had any talent. I was drawn into the story from the very first line. Absolutely wonderful! I can't wait to read all of Shay's books. She is truly talented! I would not change anything in this book. I'm in awe that this is the authors first book.
I bought this book because I know the author. I was interested to see if she had any talent. I was drawn into the story from the very first line. Absolutely wonderful! I can't wait to read all of Shay's books. She is truly talented! I would not change anything in this book. I'm in awe that this is the authors first book.
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