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Mindspeak #1
Mindspeak
She was created for a purpose so revolutionary, someone was willing to kill for it.
Seventeen-year-old Lexi Matthews keeps two secrets from her elite boarding school classmates—she’s the daughter of a famous and controversial geneticist, and she can influence people’s thoughts.
But after new student Jack DeWeese heals her broken arm with an anything-but-simple touch, he forces Lexi to face a new reality—her abilities reach much further than speaking to the minds of others.
After Lexi’s father goes missing and she receives threatening emails, she can’t decide whether to fall into Jack’s arms or run and hide.
As Lexi seeks answers to what she and Jack are, she discovers a truth more unsettling than anything her science books can teach. And letting Jack into her life of secrets is not only a threat to her very existence, but it just might break her heart wide open.
Seventeen-year-old Lexi Matthews keeps two secrets from her elite boarding school classmates—she’s the daughter of a famous and controversial geneticist, and she can influence people’s thoughts.
But after new student Jack DeWeese heals her broken arm with an anything-but-simple touch, he forces Lexi to face a new reality—her abilities reach much further than speaking to the minds of others.
After Lexi’s father goes missing and she receives threatening emails, she can’t decide whether to fall into Jack’s arms or run and hide.
As Lexi seeks answers to what she and Jack are, she discovers a truth more unsettling than anything her science books can teach. And letting Jack into her life of secrets is not only a threat to her very existence, but it just might break her heart wide open.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2013
1048 people are currently reading
5853 people want to read
About the author
Heather Sunseri
25 books393 followersHeather Sunseri was raised on a tiny farm in the smallest of towns in thoroughbred horse country near Lexington, Kentucky. After high school, she attended Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, and later graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in accounting. Always torn between a passion for fantasy and a mind for the rational, it only made sense to combine her career in accounting with a novel-writing dream.
Heather now lives in a different small town on the other side of Lexington with her two children, and her husband, Mike, the biggest Oregon Duck fan in the universe. When she’s not writing or working as a CPA, she spends her time tormenting her daughter’s cat, Olivia, and loving on her son’s Golden Retriever, Jenny. MINDSPEAK is her first published novel.
Heather now lives in a different small town on the other side of Lexington with her two children, and her husband, Mike, the biggest Oregon Duck fan in the universe. When she’s not writing or working as a CPA, she spends her time tormenting her daughter’s cat, Olivia, and loving on her son’s Golden Retriever, Jenny. MINDSPEAK is her first published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 522 reviews
August 3, 2014
I tried to finish! I really did! I read to about 53%. That's all I could handle before I succumbed to physically harming my Kindle in frustration. The premise of this book is excellent. I was excited to dive right in. The execution of the plot is horrendous. I understand an author's desire to hold a reader's attention with suspense, plot twists, and romantic interludes; however, the so-called "suspense" in this book is just one character (Jack) promising the main character (Lexi) that he'll "tell her everything" and then he doesn't. Over and over. A couple days pass, she continues her life as normal, and then he sees her again. Repeat of former scene. Jack is adamant that they "live like normal teenagers" and wants to take her mind off their strange lives (which she doesn't know much about because he refuses to ever tell her!) which makes for lots of corny romantic lines and unbelievable sudden devotion on his part. Lexi is finally exposed to the big secret about her life (right before I quit reading) and I realized that the secret wasn't as exciting as I had previously thought. Just...couldn't...suffer...through! Sorry! Not for me.
July 23, 2014
This could have been okay for me. Not really good, but really okay.
Minor spoilers ahead.
Yes, it was very cheesy, superficial and touchy-feely all the time. That annoyed me, but it did not make the book bad.
The abilities and "the program" got me hooked and I looked forward to the science-ficiton-part of this book.
Well, this part never came.
I failed to "get it" a long time. I just wondered, why the characters acted so very strange to certain information. Information, where I thought "ah, okay, no problem" was like "OMG NO WAY!" to the characters in the book and I wondered and wondered.
Then the heroine thinks stuff like "I am a abomination." "I am not made by God" "This is against Gods will" et cetera.
So...let me get this straight. This is a science-fiction novel. The characters have HEALING ABILITIES. Which could HELP PEOPLE.
Yet it is stated that these abilities are bad and should not be improved. They should not use their power to heal people and scientists or everyone who wants to help them control their abilities are evil.
Because it is against Gods will.
Wow.
(SPOILER)
The heroine even chooses to specifically NOT help a woman who is in a coma, because she is a scientist and wants to improve their abilities by erasing the handicaps they suffer from.
WOW.
I don´t know why the author even chose to write science-fiction if the overall message is "Science is evil, God is the only creator of everything."
This book made me angry because I felt that it insults intelligence in general.
I don´t think I will read anything from this author ever again.
Minor spoilers ahead.
Yes, it was very cheesy, superficial and touchy-feely all the time. That annoyed me, but it did not make the book bad.
The abilities and "the program" got me hooked and I looked forward to the science-ficiton-part of this book.
Well, this part never came.
I failed to "get it" a long time. I just wondered, why the characters acted so very strange to certain information. Information, where I thought "ah, okay, no problem" was like "OMG NO WAY!" to the characters in the book and I wondered and wondered.
Then the heroine thinks stuff like "I am a abomination." "I am not made by God" "This is against Gods will" et cetera.
So...let me get this straight. This is a science-fiction novel. The characters have HEALING ABILITIES. Which could HELP PEOPLE.
Yet it is stated that these abilities are bad and should not be improved. They should not use their power to heal people and scientists or everyone who wants to help them control their abilities are evil.
Because it is against Gods will.
Wow.
(SPOILER)
The heroine even chooses to specifically NOT help a woman who is in a coma, because she is a scientist and wants to improve their abilities by erasing the handicaps they suffer from.
WOW.
I don´t know why the author even chose to write science-fiction if the overall message is "Science is evil, God is the only creator of everything."
This book made me angry because I felt that it insults intelligence in general.
I don´t think I will read anything from this author ever again.
January 13, 2013
Heather Sunseri is a new and fresh voice in Young Adult fiction. Her debut novel, Mindspeak, is a thrill-ride that keeps you guessing.
Her characters are well-developed, quirky, and fun. I found myself laughing at times, swooning at the romantic tension between the hero/heroine, and questioning everyone. No one is safe and anyone could be the bad guy.
And if palpable romance and high-impact action isn't enough, Sunseri tackles important subjects such as identity and purpose. It left me satisfied and wanting more. I'm looking forward for book two in this series.
Her characters are well-developed, quirky, and fun. I found myself laughing at times, swooning at the romantic tension between the hero/heroine, and questioning everyone. No one is safe and anyone could be the bad guy.
And if palpable romance and high-impact action isn't enough, Sunseri tackles important subjects such as identity and purpose. It left me satisfied and wanting more. I'm looking forward for book two in this series.
March 22, 2020
Note to self: Learn to steer clear of freebie YA paranormal books with generic, flimsy plotlines and profoundly irritating characters being shoved into equally irritating romances. Life's just too damn short.
June 17, 2017
3.5 Stars
The Good:
Often in Indie/Self-Published books, which I believe this is, you find writing that would never have made it past a publisher. Poor editing, lots of mistakes, clunkiness... You won't see any of that in Mindspeak. It was evidently well edited and, as a bit of a Grammar Nazi, I have to say this is a definite plus.
The plot is interesting and gripping enough to keep me wondering what would happen next. Some parts are a little predictable but not overtly so. No rehashing of Twilight or The Hunger Games here.
The characters are reasonably well developed - no obvious tropes or Mary Sues. I'd be interested to read more about Brianna actually. Although she's the type of character I normally hate, I have a feeling there's more to her than meets the eye.
The Bad:
Instalove. That eye-roll-iest of eye-roll-y things. To be fair, I've seen it done much more ridiculously than it is here. Still - all the 'I love you's and 'I'll always find you's after like a week were a bit much. I started rolling my eyes at about 1/3 of the way in.
Speaking of Lexi and Jack's relationship, I found him a touch overbearing. I can ish understand why he might go all stalker-y given the situation he was in... but I couldn't go with him hovering over Lexi and expecting her to obey his every demand whilst refusing to tell her anything. Particularly as he managed to save her from herself* exactly zero times. All the "No more secrets! Except all of mine." was a bit grating. Ditto the *must protect weak little female*.
These aren't huge gripes, particularly when you compare Mindspeak to the rest of its genre. All told, it sits nicely in the middle of the pack as a fairly enjoyable YA freebie.
*Well... sort of herself.
The Good:
Often in Indie/Self-Published books, which I believe this is, you find writing that would never have made it past a publisher. Poor editing, lots of mistakes, clunkiness... You won't see any of that in Mindspeak. It was evidently well edited and, as a bit of a Grammar Nazi, I have to say this is a definite plus.
The plot is interesting and gripping enough to keep me wondering what would happen next. Some parts are a little predictable but not overtly so. No rehashing of Twilight or The Hunger Games here.
The characters are reasonably well developed - no obvious tropes or Mary Sues. I'd be interested to read more about Brianna actually. Although she's the type of character I normally hate, I have a feeling there's more to her than meets the eye.
The Bad:
Instalove. That eye-roll-iest of eye-roll-y things. To be fair, I've seen it done much more ridiculously than it is here. Still - all the 'I love you's and 'I'll always find you's after like a week were a bit much. I started rolling my eyes at about 1/3 of the way in.
Speaking of Lexi and Jack's relationship, I found him a touch overbearing. I can ish understand why he might go all stalker-y given the situation he was in... but I couldn't go with him hovering over Lexi and expecting her to obey his every demand whilst refusing to tell her anything. Particularly as he managed to save her from herself* exactly zero times. All the "No more secrets! Except all of mine." was a bit grating. Ditto the *must protect weak little female*.
These aren't huge gripes, particularly when you compare Mindspeak to the rest of its genre. All told, it sits nicely in the middle of the pack as a fairly enjoyable YA freebie.
*Well... sort of herself.
February 7, 2013
I was so pleasantly surprised with this book! I was honestly expecting a lot of fluff and the same story lines we always have with this genre. It was awesome, amazing, and spectacularly written. The story has so many twists and turns that for me I couldn't stop reading. I finished it in 1 sitting. "Mindspeak" 100% left me wanting MORE!
I could not ask for a better experience. This new author Heather Sunseri will be big. I can't wait to see what her imagination brings us next!
I could not ask for a better experience. This new author Heather Sunseri will be big. I can't wait to see what her imagination brings us next!
July 26, 2016
“There are no other girls. Only you.”
I am so disappointed with this one!
So basically this book sis about a special kids, who are going to become doctors.
And I am SOOOOO glad that she will not become one, hopefully, since she is so stupid for real.
Never head read about stupid character like this, annoying have, but stupid no!
“Disappointed is nowhere on the list of emotions I’ve felt since I met you.
When Jack said this I was like, really? I felt only that since I met her!!!
The whole idea was amazing, but never answering the questions and hiding EVERYTHING was not mystery it was just a weak attempt of it, since author crossed the line.
She pushed him away so hard, even when he proved to be on her side. At the beginning I got it, but at the end....
“I meant what I said. I won’t let you fall.”
Well she did buddy, and you caught her!!! I mean her falling for him understandable, him falling for her...not so! Ok but the whole concept of being destined to be together was interesting, and how their abilities completed each other!! And I also liked that between the dads hers was not the main character, yes journals were his, he has hid them, but Jack's was the lover of the freak, and that is why they completed each other. It must be awful to find out what you really are.
He held tighter, looking deep into my core. “I’m in love with you, Lexi. And I will do anything to protect you from the absurd cards we’ve been dealt.”
This time I pulled my hand away and stood. I walked toward the fireplace and stared straight into the burning flames. I guess I can’t possibly hide what I feel from you, can I?
Jack’s arms circled me and drew my back against his chest. I know you love me. But, man, you’ve done a pretty amazing job of fighting it.
I chuckled, a little from embarrassment. “I’m sorry. These feelings are new to me. And I’m so scared.”
Say it now.
“I love you, Jack,” I whispered, my voice hoarse.
The only right thing that you did, not sure for him though...
“You’re always there to catch me,”
And you are always there to push him!!!
You’re home.
Wherever I am, you’re home.
I got all the villains right.. And at the end when Jason stood in from of her smoking knowing that it one of the 7 of them... Denseeee.... I mean for real, for a smart girl(as it was mentioned) she was STUPIIIIID!!!! the stupidest!!! When smoking was mentioned she should have known it was him, I did after all. Since she did not meet anyone with cigarets except Jason.... So yeah good luck Jack with trying to give her some brains to think
I am so disappointed with this one!
So basically this book sis about a special kids, who are going to become doctors.
And I am SOOOOO glad that she will not become one, hopefully, since she is so stupid for real.
Never head read about stupid character like this, annoying have, but stupid no!
“Disappointed is nowhere on the list of emotions I’ve felt since I met you.
When Jack said this I was like, really? I felt only that since I met her!!!
The whole idea was amazing, but never answering the questions and hiding EVERYTHING was not mystery it was just a weak attempt of it, since author crossed the line.
She pushed him away so hard, even when he proved to be on her side. At the beginning I got it, but at the end....
“I meant what I said. I won’t let you fall.”
Well she did buddy, and you caught her!!! I mean her falling for him understandable, him falling for her...not so! Ok but the whole concept of being destined to be together was interesting, and how their abilities completed each other!! And I also liked that between the dads hers was not the main character, yes journals were his, he has hid them, but Jack's was the lover of the freak, and that is why they completed each other. It must be awful to find out what you really are.
He held tighter, looking deep into my core. “I’m in love with you, Lexi. And I will do anything to protect you from the absurd cards we’ve been dealt.”
This time I pulled my hand away and stood. I walked toward the fireplace and stared straight into the burning flames. I guess I can’t possibly hide what I feel from you, can I?
Jack’s arms circled me and drew my back against his chest. I know you love me. But, man, you’ve done a pretty amazing job of fighting it.
I chuckled, a little from embarrassment. “I’m sorry. These feelings are new to me. And I’m so scared.”
Say it now.
“I love you, Jack,” I whispered, my voice hoarse.
The only right thing that you did, not sure for him though...
“You’re always there to catch me,”
And you are always there to push him!!!
You’re home.
Wherever I am, you’re home.
I got all the villains right.. And at the end when Jason stood in from of her smoking knowing that it one of the 7 of them... Denseeee.... I mean for real, for a smart girl(as it was mentioned) she was STUPIIIIID!!!! the stupidest!!! When smoking was mentioned she should have known it was him, I did after all. Since she did not meet anyone with cigarets except Jason.... So yeah good luck Jack with trying to give her some brains to think
August 28, 2014
I really had hopes that this book would get better. The premise is fun and I actually liked the characters, but the writing lagged in spots and while the author kept secrets from the reader and main character, she didn’t distract us enough with other things. I don’t mind being in the dark if there’s so many other things going on that I know there hasn’t been time for explanations. If there are big spaces of time where the main character could have gone after the answers, I lose patience and belief in her. If she doesn’t care about getting answers, why should I?! Lost was a great TV show because, while the writers didn’t give you the BIG answer(s) to the show, they either gave you hints that helped ease the curiosity for one more week, or they gave partial answers that left you with more questions. THAT was good mystery writing. Mindspeak was more like a few big questions that hardly get answered and left me with an annoying (and not in an enticing way) cliffhangar that does not make me really want to keep going because I’ve my patience for finding out and I’m not sure I’ll even get answers in the next book.
The only reason this one gets “I was okay at the end” instead of “It Ended” was because I liked the characters and the basic premise. The execution was it’s flaw.
The only reason this one gets “I was okay at the end” instead of “It Ended” was because I liked the characters and the basic premise. The execution was it’s flaw.
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August 22, 2017DNF @ 175
Lemme just try to tell you everything wrong in these 175 pages:
So this is about Lexi, a swimmer at a high security school for the elite. She has a rivalry with some other chick from the swim team and she doesn't know why the other one hates her so much (of course not, I mean really, it's barely been 5 pages and I'm so over this cliche "I-Don't-Know-Why-She-Hates-Me-I'm-Such-A-Good-Little-Girl") STOP PITTING WOMEN AGAINST EACH OTHER FOR NO DAMN REASON! GODS!!
She's then told to show new guy, Jake, around campus. This is a "He's-Hot-But-I'm-So-Not-Into-Him-And-I-Never-Will-Be-But-Then-I-Later-Will-Love-Him-Becuase-He's-So-Amazing-OMG" relationship. I can tell. Jake is part of 'The Program' (IDK what program but it's 'THE' program. Sth medical based. So ominous). People from the program end up as doctors and whatnot. Basically they're smart/rich mofos in a tough and top tier academic group.
Lexi's father is some hotshot scientist and is doing some kinda top secret research which is why she's in Wellington (the school). She's also supposed to introduce Jake to the school at a ceremony so while asking his questions for the introduction, he starts creeping her out (the poor boy is just asking some questions, which are warranted given how the school operates). She gets a massive headache (I bet it's due to some power she has, the title, summary of the book, plus her dad's career option have led me to believe that she's been genetically messed up in a lab and has some kinda power. Let's see how good of an arm chair detective I am).
Jack then touches her head and her headache disappears (safe to say he's also some kind of top secret individual. Maybe he has powers too or was sent to find out if she does). Yep, called it, she asks him who he is and he's like, I'm Jack and I'm curious, to which she replies that most people go to the zoo and he's like "I'm not curious about gorillas. I was curious about you."
Therefore my next deduction: he's been stuck in a lab his whole life and kept hearing about her and how she's special so now he's here to see for himself. Or he's been sent by someone.
I like Daniella, Lexi's roommate, she knows what's up. A girl with a clear head and her own set of priorities. I'm rooting for you. Unlike Lexi, who's being super paranoid RN. She might be right but ATM she just sounds like a crazy person.
Her dad's work has to do with cloning and stem cell research and ladies and gentlemen, our MC has a moral compass. She's a 'geeky medical type' (Daniella's words) and hates that her father plays with human life. (I can't even begin to correct her perception without making a PowerPoint presentation explaining that cloning isn't as black and white as she thinks. She better step up her medical game TBH)
"Despite the time we spent apart, we had an unexplainable father-daughter connection" WHAT??? MAYBE IT'S BECAUSE YOU SHARE GENES?? SINCE, YOU KNOW, YOU'RE FATHER-DAUGHTER??
So she only sometimes has a problem with her dad's research. *sigh*
AH-HAH!! She does have mind powers! And how do you think you got those? Hmmmm? Naturally?
Jack's there!! Jack's at the dinner with the guy who punched her dad!!
WHY FOR THE LIVE OF GOD WOULD YOU ASK HER TO COFFEE JACK? The girls has the personality of a cardboard so far! She said no, thank Gods. I don't like the way this romance is being shoved down my throat.
Jack can heal!? Well. That explains the headache cure and him being in 'The Program'
She uses her powers on Briana to stay away from Jack and she has moral dilemmas about cloning. How is manipulating someone's mind moral or ethical? Talk about double standards. Was your character even thought out Lexi?
KNEW IT!! She's defs been altered! Where's your moral compass now???
Private info sent to WikiLeaks??? WHAT A THREAT!! I cannot even deal with this nonsense.
Oh Jack, so far the only personality I've seen in Lexi is concern for her dad and jealousy. She's not funny, she wants to be a doctor but she's not smart and she fails at sarcasm.
THE FORCED ROMANCE OH MY GODS SOMEONE STAB MY HEART! ENOUGH!!!!
Safe to say I couldn't continue anymore. This is a walking disaster.....or, well, a typing disaster.
Lemme just try to tell you everything wrong in these 175 pages:
So this is about Lexi, a swimmer at a high security school for the elite. She has a rivalry with some other chick from the swim team and she doesn't know why the other one hates her so much (of course not, I mean really, it's barely been 5 pages and I'm so over this cliche "I-Don't-Know-Why-She-Hates-Me-I'm-Such-A-Good-Little-Girl") STOP PITTING WOMEN AGAINST EACH OTHER FOR NO DAMN REASON! GODS!!
She's then told to show new guy, Jake, around campus. This is a "He's-Hot-But-I'm-So-Not-Into-Him-And-I-Never-Will-Be-But-Then-I-Later-Will-Love-Him-Becuase-He's-So-Amazing-OMG" relationship. I can tell. Jake is part of 'The Program' (IDK what program but it's 'THE' program. Sth medical based. So ominous). People from the program end up as doctors and whatnot. Basically they're smart/rich mofos in a tough and top tier academic group.
Lexi's father is some hotshot scientist and is doing some kinda top secret research which is why she's in Wellington (the school). She's also supposed to introduce Jake to the school at a ceremony so while asking his questions for the introduction, he starts creeping her out (the poor boy is just asking some questions, which are warranted given how the school operates). She gets a massive headache (I bet it's due to some power she has, the title, summary of the book, plus her dad's career option have led me to believe that she's been genetically messed up in a lab and has some kinda power. Let's see how good of an arm chair detective I am).
Jack then touches her head and her headache disappears (safe to say he's also some kind of top secret individual. Maybe he has powers too or was sent to find out if she does). Yep, called it, she asks him who he is and he's like, I'm Jack and I'm curious, to which she replies that most people go to the zoo and he's like "I'm not curious about gorillas. I was curious about you."
Therefore my next deduction: he's been stuck in a lab his whole life and kept hearing about her and how she's special so now he's here to see for himself. Or he's been sent by someone.
I like Daniella, Lexi's roommate, she knows what's up. A girl with a clear head and her own set of priorities. I'm rooting for you. Unlike Lexi, who's being super paranoid RN. She might be right but ATM she just sounds like a crazy person.
Her dad's work has to do with cloning and stem cell research and ladies and gentlemen, our MC has a moral compass. She's a 'geeky medical type' (Daniella's words) and hates that her father plays with human life. (I can't even begin to correct her perception without making a PowerPoint presentation explaining that cloning isn't as black and white as she thinks. She better step up her medical game TBH)
"Despite the time we spent apart, we had an unexplainable father-daughter connection" WHAT??? MAYBE IT'S BECAUSE YOU SHARE GENES?? SINCE, YOU KNOW, YOU'RE FATHER-DAUGHTER??
So she only sometimes has a problem with her dad's research. *sigh*
AH-HAH!! She does have mind powers! And how do you think you got those? Hmmmm? Naturally?
Jack's there!! Jack's at the dinner with the guy who punched her dad!!
WHY FOR THE LIVE OF GOD WOULD YOU ASK HER TO COFFEE JACK? The girls has the personality of a cardboard so far! She said no, thank Gods. I don't like the way this romance is being shoved down my throat.
Jack can heal!? Well. That explains the headache cure and him being in 'The Program'
She uses her powers on Briana to stay away from Jack and she has moral dilemmas about cloning. How is manipulating someone's mind moral or ethical? Talk about double standards. Was your character even thought out Lexi?
KNEW IT!! She's defs been altered! Where's your moral compass now???
Private info sent to WikiLeaks??? WHAT A THREAT!! I cannot even deal with this nonsense.
Oh Jack, so far the only personality I've seen in Lexi is concern for her dad and jealousy. She's not funny, she wants to be a doctor but she's not smart and she fails at sarcasm.
THE FORCED ROMANCE OH MY GODS SOMEONE STAB MY HEART! ENOUGH!!!!
Safe to say I couldn't continue anymore. This is a walking disaster.....or, well, a typing disaster.
March 2, 2017
I don't remember how I got this book, but it was on my Kindle and I decided to start it while traveling. I quite enjoyed it, but not more than that. I mean, I did not relate to any of the characters nor did I particularly care about them. I could not really get into the story. The writing was not bad, but it was nothing special either.
It was an entertaining read with an interesting concept. But I'm not sure I'll continue on with the rest of the series.
It was an entertaining read with an interesting concept. But I'm not sure I'll continue on with the rest of the series.
May 25, 2013
The cover is what pulled me in at first.When I started reading I was instantly in love!:)Is there going to be a sequel to this series?Ive been waiting for one since you left us at a cliff hanger; Heather. Thanks for making this book. Reply to my question if you want to;)
dnf
June 16, 2017got side tracked by other books. It's on my kindle, so it isnt' going anywhere.
February 4, 2013
"Mindspeak" by Heather Sunseri was a splendid read! This being Sunseri's debut book, her writing style read more like a distinguished and experienced author! The story line was genius...it was one of those books that made me think..."Hmmm, what if this really could happen?" In my opinion, asking questions at the end of a book is a true indication of a good piece of fiction (or non-fiction, too)! Those stories that keep you thinking deeper into the storyline, guessing what could happen next, the characters, and leaving you with the feeling of wanting more. And I do hope to see lots more from Sunseri, Mindspeak and its characters!
Something I can not deny is how I really enjoyed Sunseri's writing - it has a nice flow using descriptive details which made me feel like I was a part of the story watching it all happen and unfold right in front of me. The story transitioned well and I never felt there was downtime. Sunseri's writing kept me engaged in the book, plot and characters. I never felt the urge to "skim" over this or that paragraph to get to the good stuff...I was always reading the good stuff, word for word. Not only did I enjoy the writing, but I really enjoyed the characters of Lexi and Jack. They asked themselves important questions a teenager or young adult might ask themselves when preparing to enter adulthood. I really liked that from Sunseri. For me personally, I love the fact that Lexi looked for her own happiness first - I really appreciated Lexi's inner voice.
Oh, and props to the cover designer as well! I hate to admit I might have a tendency to judge a book by its cover. But the cover is what peaks my interest...from picking up the book, opening the first page, flipping the book over and reading the summary, to going online and reading reviews. In summary, I loved "Mindspeak" from cover to end!! I could not put this book down...I highly recommend this book!! Tweens, Teens, young adults, and yes, adults...get your copy TODAY!!!
Something I can not deny is how I really enjoyed Sunseri's writing - it has a nice flow using descriptive details which made me feel like I was a part of the story watching it all happen and unfold right in front of me. The story transitioned well and I never felt there was downtime. Sunseri's writing kept me engaged in the book, plot and characters. I never felt the urge to "skim" over this or that paragraph to get to the good stuff...I was always reading the good stuff, word for word. Not only did I enjoy the writing, but I really enjoyed the characters of Lexi and Jack. They asked themselves important questions a teenager or young adult might ask themselves when preparing to enter adulthood. I really liked that from Sunseri. For me personally, I love the fact that Lexi looked for her own happiness first - I really appreciated Lexi's inner voice.
Oh, and props to the cover designer as well! I hate to admit I might have a tendency to judge a book by its cover. But the cover is what peaks my interest...from picking up the book, opening the first page, flipping the book over and reading the summary, to going online and reading reviews. In summary, I loved "Mindspeak" from cover to end!! I could not put this book down...I highly recommend this book!! Tweens, Teens, young adults, and yes, adults...get your copy TODAY!!!
September 22, 2014
If you strip away the fancy stuff of the story (what powers do what and the like) this story is very generic. I know that sounds stupid, like I'm saying "If you don't look at the details of the book it's like other books." But that's not what I mean. What I mean is that there are a few fancy powers and some fancy backstory but at it's base it's the same as so many other books.
Generic story, generic characters, and predictable plot. The book was constantly trying to throw "gotcha's" at the reader and I think maybe one of them got me but at that point in the story I didn't really care. I started piecing the story together so much quicker than the story moved that it was painful to read some parts. The writing was decent enough, so the read wasn't horribly painful, but I have no interest in reading any sequels, even if the story was in no way wrapped up after this book.
You've got your female main character with a secret and her best friend who doesn't know her secret. Then a mysterious boy shows up who knows about her secret and he's really hot but she doesn't like him because he's annoying and blah, blah, blah.
I'm not saying you shouldn't read this book, I mean you might love it, but I didn't. Does that mean I think this book shouldn't be printed ever again, no, I think it's decent quality and the this writer obviously had a story she wanted to tell.
I'd say give the book a try, but don't expect to be reading anything too revolutionary.
Generic story, generic characters, and predictable plot. The book was constantly trying to throw "gotcha's" at the reader and I think maybe one of them got me but at that point in the story I didn't really care. I started piecing the story together so much quicker than the story moved that it was painful to read some parts. The writing was decent enough, so the read wasn't horribly painful, but I have no interest in reading any sequels, even if the story was in no way wrapped up after this book.
You've got your female main character with a secret and her best friend who doesn't know her secret. Then a mysterious boy shows up who knows about her secret and he's really hot but she doesn't like him because he's annoying and blah, blah, blah.
I'm not saying you shouldn't read this book, I mean you might love it, but I didn't. Does that mean I think this book shouldn't be printed ever again, no, I think it's decent quality and the this writer obviously had a story she wanted to tell.
I'd say give the book a try, but don't expect to be reading anything too revolutionary.
July 2, 2016
Most of the time I don't like knowing anything about the book before I read it. This was one of those times because I think it's not as exciting when you already know what they're trying to hide until halfway through the story.
The topic of the book is one of my favorites so I didn't care that it should have been obvious from the beginning. The main character is a bit stubborn and careless but it keeps making you wonder if things are going to wrap up soon or if she'll somehow ruin things once again. This is the first book in the series and from what I accidentally read from the most recent one, things are definitely not over yet, there's something else going on and I am curious to know how that other character is involved in all of it.
We got a lot of answers by the end but I still don't know who to trust or if the MC made the right choice. It's probably the obvious one but I'm still not convinced, there has to be something deeper which we'll probably won't see until the second or third book. I expected more from the whole mystery program but I'm hoping we'll learn more about it, that there's more to it later.
About the romance part of this, there's the girl and the boy and how important they both are and how easily they fall for each other. Isn't it always the same way? I'd like to see a different kind of love, romantic relationship between the main characters.
O22 Board Three
The topic of the book is one of my favorites so I didn't care that it should have been obvious from the beginning. The main character is a bit stubborn and careless but it keeps making you wonder if things are going to wrap up soon or if she'll somehow ruin things once again. This is the first book in the series and from what I accidentally read from the most recent one, things are definitely not over yet, there's something else going on and I am curious to know how that other character is involved in all of it.
We got a lot of answers by the end but I still don't know who to trust or if the MC made the right choice. It's probably the obvious one but I'm still not convinced, there has to be something deeper which we'll probably won't see until the second or third book. I expected more from the whole mystery program but I'm hoping we'll learn more about it, that there's more to it later.
About the romance part of this, there's the girl and the boy and how important they both are and how easily they fall for each other. Isn't it always the same way? I'd like to see a different kind of love, romantic relationship between the main characters.
O22 Board Three
October 12, 2014
While I feel like I liked the book enough for it to warrant four stars, I have a hard time giving the book five because of the foul language in it. The s word was in it quite a lot, as well as a smattering of a few other curse words. If you're sensitive to that kind of thing, now you're forewarned . . .
I liked the original idea of Mindspeak. I can't go into a lot of details, because it would ruin it, but I thought that the idea of genetically altered beings was really well pulled off here. I enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters, and I loved the writing. It was definitely flawless. I really think this book and series have epic potential. Unfortunately, because I AM sensitive to the cursing, I can't see myself buying the next books in the series, even though I'm just about dying to find out what happens next lol.
Overall, great book, but a few personal issues prevented me from absolutely falling in love with it.
I liked the original idea of Mindspeak. I can't go into a lot of details, because it would ruin it, but I thought that the idea of genetically altered beings was really well pulled off here. I enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters, and I loved the writing. It was definitely flawless. I really think this book and series have epic potential. Unfortunately, because I AM sensitive to the cursing, I can't see myself buying the next books in the series, even though I'm just about dying to find out what happens next lol.
Overall, great book, but a few personal issues prevented me from absolutely falling in love with it.
October 6, 2015
An excellent YA series
When Jack comes into Lexie's life, it all begins to go pear shaped. And she is left isolated, not knowing whom to trust. Like many YA heroines, she has a penchant for running into danger recklessly in her search to unreal the mysteries surrounding her. What I liked: the depiction of the characters, the good writing. What I was less thrilled about: the book ends on a cliff-hanger. I believe that even within a series a plot arc should come to completion. And I also think the author should give the reader a fair chance to solve the mystery. SPOILER introducing someone once in a short scene is not enough to let us deduct the potential killer's identity.
When Jack comes into Lexie's life, it all begins to go pear shaped. And she is left isolated, not knowing whom to trust. Like many YA heroines, she has a penchant for running into danger recklessly in her search to unreal the mysteries surrounding her. What I liked: the depiction of the characters, the good writing. What I was less thrilled about: the book ends on a cliff-hanger. I believe that even within a series a plot arc should come to completion. And I also think the author should give the reader a fair chance to solve the mystery. SPOILER introducing someone once in a short scene is not enough to let us deduct the potential killer's identity.
March 24, 2013
I read about "Mindspeak" from a review on The Character Therapist blog. I wanted something different to read and after reading the review, I located the book and read the first few pages.
Heather Sunseri brings a fresh new voice to the table, and the only thing I could think of after reading the last page is "Darn, how long do I have to wait for the next book?"
I enjoyed the plot and well developed characters. Heather certainly had me turning pages, and in a few places biting my lip in anticipation.
Great read!
Heather Sunseri brings a fresh new voice to the table, and the only thing I could think of after reading the last page is "Darn, how long do I have to wait for the next book?"
I enjoyed the plot and well developed characters. Heather certainly had me turning pages, and in a few places biting my lip in anticipation.
Great read!
November 17, 2015
I liked this story very much. Not my usual read but I found the characters to be well drawn and interesting. The pace was right for me and I liked the relationship issues between the characters.
I will definitely need to read the next book in the series.
I will definitely need to read the next book in the series.
July 14, 2017
LOVED the author's voice.
Can I just say that again? Welcome into the life of a truly conflicted teen--and rightly so. With an absentee father, secrets circling her existence, and a looming danger she has no weapons to combat, this makes for a thrilling ride. Trust no one. I loved that Lexi was independent and strong enough to hold to her father's advice, despite the desire to cave into a new relationship. Perhaps that's what I loved most about the book--her inner strength. And yes, I cried with her at the right moments, and gasped when she did, and found myself giving her advice. (Even though my advice would have gotten her into more trouble.)
I only have one gripe. *spoiler warning* The last two sections of the last chapter. Would I have read on in the series? Yes. Did I appreciate the bomb dropped in those last two sections? NO!!!!!! Will I still read on?
...
Very likely.
Pick this one up if it sounds like something you'd enjoy. It's great.
Content warning: Swearing.
Can I just say that again? Welcome into the life of a truly conflicted teen--and rightly so. With an absentee father, secrets circling her existence, and a looming danger she has no weapons to combat, this makes for a thrilling ride. Trust no one. I loved that Lexi was independent and strong enough to hold to her father's advice, despite the desire to cave into a new relationship. Perhaps that's what I loved most about the book--her inner strength. And yes, I cried with her at the right moments, and gasped when she did, and found myself giving her advice. (Even though my advice would have gotten her into more trouble.)
I only have one gripe. *spoiler warning* The last two sections of the last chapter. Would I have read on in the series? Yes. Did I appreciate the bomb dropped in those last two sections? NO!!!!!! Will I still read on?
...
Very likely.
Pick this one up if it sounds like something you'd enjoy. It's great.
Content warning: Swearing.
October 8, 2021
I was actually enjoying this book and could even go with the confusion but the ending undid it for me. It is a NON ENDING, which I DO NOT LIKE in a book. Also where it was going in the very end, I am not sure I want to go with the characters.
There was a lot of confusion where you do not know who to trust and that is not solved in any way in this book.
Not sure I will read another one of them.
There was a lot of confusion where you do not know who to trust and that is not solved in any way in this book.
Not sure I will read another one of them.
May 12, 2017
i liked this but i have to admit i was a little confused about how they were made for each other since they never talked about it. plus, jack's continual mention of trust was a little annoying since every time.lexi turned around she was learning something else from other people.
May 29, 2017
I liked the book quite a lot, it was a light nice read, it does end on a real cliff hanger, which I'm not so happy about. all in all it was a really good book, and I am looking forward to the next one.
May 24, 2017
I enjoyed this book. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
December 19, 2018
I really loved reading this book.
September 13, 2020
I'm not sure anyone can fall in love that quickly... but other than that, a pretty good read!
December 30, 2020
Full review to follow!
December 12, 2020
I’d like to know more, please!
December 5, 2021
The premise of this was interesting but it failed to live up to what was promised. I thought it depended way too much on this insta-love relationship which took over the plot.
That being said, the cliffhanger has made me desperately want to know what’s happening next
That being said, the cliffhanger has made me desperately want to know what’s happening next
March 28, 2020
Why this book has only 3.76 rating and the next ones are all well over 4* ? It's because of people who doesn't give it a chance... it's a 4.5* all day long
It was pretty good, I like it a lot, will definitely buy the next ones, sooo looking forward to read some more about Lexi and Jack 🥰
It was pretty good, I like it a lot, will definitely buy the next ones, sooo looking forward to read some more about Lexi and Jack 🥰
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