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Elemental #1
Awakenings
When sixteen-year old Jacey Adison’s parents tell her they must move again, she has never questioned their life style. Until now. When Jacey was two, her parents fled the protection of their birthplace, the mystical dimension of Nemele. Leaving was the only solution her parents believed might allow them to keep their family together and alive.
The Adisons have been running from a sect of iniquitous beings from Nemele who covet Jacey. Her parents have repressed their adversaries’ relentless tracking efforts by not utilizing their own mystical powers. They have chosen to conceal themselves within the only realm they knew they’d be able to survive. They are living under their self-imposed powerless sanctions on Earth, which constitutes the nineteenth nation of Nemele.
Her parents have never revealed their true identities to Jacey, consequently keeping her true lineage and unique birthright from her. Jacey’s family has pretended to be non-magical humans as a ploy to prevent an ancient omnipotent entity from killing more innocent beings in its relentless quest to possess Jacey.
Born as an anomaly, Jacey possesses rare abilities that both virtuous and corrupt entities seek to use as their own. Should either side prevail, Jacey may be the saviour or downfall of every world within Nemele’s domains. Blindly thrust into life and death situations, Jacey learns of her true powers within her dreaming and conscious states.
The Adisons have been running from a sect of iniquitous beings from Nemele who covet Jacey. Her parents have repressed their adversaries’ relentless tracking efforts by not utilizing their own mystical powers. They have chosen to conceal themselves within the only realm they knew they’d be able to survive. They are living under their self-imposed powerless sanctions on Earth, which constitutes the nineteenth nation of Nemele.
Her parents have never revealed their true identities to Jacey, consequently keeping her true lineage and unique birthright from her. Jacey’s family has pretended to be non-magical humans as a ploy to prevent an ancient omnipotent entity from killing more innocent beings in its relentless quest to possess Jacey.
Born as an anomaly, Jacey possesses rare abilities that both virtuous and corrupt entities seek to use as their own. Should either side prevail, Jacey may be the saviour or downfall of every world within Nemele’s domains. Blindly thrust into life and death situations, Jacey learns of her true powers within her dreaming and conscious states.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2013
22 people are currently reading
765 people want to read
About the author
Hally Willmott
3 books110 followersAuthor for Limitless Publishing. Wife, mother and Police Officer:)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 7, 2013
I absolutely loved reading this book, the story line was unique and for me a breath of fresh air in the paranormal genre. The writing was wonderfully descriptive and rich in thought. The main characters were lovely and very relatable in today’s society I anxiously waited for months for this novel to be release, and I was hooked after the first page, the original storyline was very thought provoking and detailed every single development beautifully.
June 16, 2013
4.5*s
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Awakenings was a great read, full of mystery and intrigue that is only just setting up a series with a good amount of potential. I liked the world the author has created, it is quite different from the usual books I read and I really enjoyed it. The synopsis is spot on in its description of the upheaval Jacey is going to go through throughout the book. In effect, most of Jacey’s life has been a lie and all those close to her have perpetuated the lie. She knew she was different in certain ways but not how different she would become until the day her parents die and the lies/secrets begin to unfold, finally giving Jacey an insight into the ‘real’ life she has been protected from. I liked Jacey as a character, she was sweet and I liked the family dynamic they all had. I really enjoyed the powers that she begins to manifest throughout and her discovery that her dreams are linked to those. I think she held it together really well considering the amount of secrets people were keeping from her and had I been her, I would have been a lot more angry at those around me particularly when I felt that people were only around me as an obligation. I really liked her brother – Hudson – and his protectiveness of her, obviously when things start to be revealed we understand why but even before then you can feel the bond they share and it was nice, I also liked that he got some happiness from his situation too with a certain someone.
The storyline was very much a ‘getting to know you & your world’ scenario but what I liked about it was that we did it along with the main character, as she discovered new things about where she is from and what she is capable of – so did we, it helps to get a good feel of a character and helps you empathise with their plight, wondering what you would do in their situation. I loved the whole Nemele plot, it was very good and believable and I liked the way it was done, not overly confusing. I liked that the Nemele people are all about community, all like minded people living in harmony, very in touch with their environment and that they promote that too, it seems like a lovely place to live. I am very curious about where they are from, what they’re capable of and its history so I’m hoping for more of that. Even though it was a journey of self discovery for Jacey, I liked that everyone had their own story weaved throughout Jaceys, I liked the way her parents were still a part of the storyline even though they died in the beginning and the way their story was told, same with their Aunt Grace & Hudson getting their time too, tying everything into Jaceys’ journey. The threat to her was played out great, you felt a sense of urgency for her to get to where she needed to be and then a feeling that with her arrival, comes a game changer for the enemy who will stop at nothing to get to her. At the minute she is still vulnerable, just coming into her capabilities but you get a sense that it’s just scratching the surface of what she is destined for. She’s also the forefront of a prophecy and a fated/soul mate love connection – both of which make me giddy with glee. I absolutely loved the ending and the possibilities that brought for future books, every element of this book is brought together wonderfully and makes me really excited for the sequel, so go read it people! 4.5*s
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Awakenings was a great read, full of mystery and intrigue that is only just setting up a series with a good amount of potential. I liked the world the author has created, it is quite different from the usual books I read and I really enjoyed it. The synopsis is spot on in its description of the upheaval Jacey is going to go through throughout the book. In effect, most of Jacey’s life has been a lie and all those close to her have perpetuated the lie. She knew she was different in certain ways but not how different she would become until the day her parents die and the lies/secrets begin to unfold, finally giving Jacey an insight into the ‘real’ life she has been protected from. I liked Jacey as a character, she was sweet and I liked the family dynamic they all had. I really enjoyed the powers that she begins to manifest throughout and her discovery that her dreams are linked to those. I think she held it together really well considering the amount of secrets people were keeping from her and had I been her, I would have been a lot more angry at those around me particularly when I felt that people were only around me as an obligation. I really liked her brother – Hudson – and his protectiveness of her, obviously when things start to be revealed we understand why but even before then you can feel the bond they share and it was nice, I also liked that he got some happiness from his situation too with a certain someone.
The storyline was very much a ‘getting to know you & your world’ scenario but what I liked about it was that we did it along with the main character, as she discovered new things about where she is from and what she is capable of – so did we, it helps to get a good feel of a character and helps you empathise with their plight, wondering what you would do in their situation. I loved the whole Nemele plot, it was very good and believable and I liked the way it was done, not overly confusing. I liked that the Nemele people are all about community, all like minded people living in harmony, very in touch with their environment and that they promote that too, it seems like a lovely place to live. I am very curious about where they are from, what they’re capable of and its history so I’m hoping for more of that. Even though it was a journey of self discovery for Jacey, I liked that everyone had their own story weaved throughout Jaceys, I liked the way her parents were still a part of the storyline even though they died in the beginning and the way their story was told, same with their Aunt Grace & Hudson getting their time too, tying everything into Jaceys’ journey. The threat to her was played out great, you felt a sense of urgency for her to get to where she needed to be and then a feeling that with her arrival, comes a game changer for the enemy who will stop at nothing to get to her. At the minute she is still vulnerable, just coming into her capabilities but you get a sense that it’s just scratching the surface of what she is destined for. She’s also the forefront of a prophecy and a fated/soul mate love connection – both of which make me giddy with glee. I absolutely loved the ending and the possibilities that brought for future books, every element of this book is brought together wonderfully and makes me really excited for the sequel, so go read it people! 4.5*s
January 6, 2014
I just stayed awake until 2 a.m. to finish this book.. needless to say full review will come later. Here are just a few words I will leave you with for now.. different, intriguing, mystical, magical, heartfelt, a breath of fresh air in the paranormal genre, and hell why not... a little bit strange! Now good night or good morning, whatever. I'm going to bed!
I'm not going to add much because.. well you can read the synopsis to find out what the book is about and I think I pretty much said all that needed to be said in the words above. Yes there are some things about this book that people will not like. For me personally I did not really care for the lame 'all in due time' bs that Jacey kept getting from her family and friends when she questioned what was happening to her or the fact that she could be sooo clueless at times but I believe that most books you read are going to have something that annoys you. This is a wonderful read with one hell of an amazing ending! I can't wait for Elemental #2!!
I'm not going to add much because.. well you can read the synopsis to find out what the book is about and I think I pretty much said all that needed to be said in the words above. Yes there are some things about this book that people will not like. For me personally I did not really care for the lame 'all in due time' bs that Jacey kept getting from her family and friends when she questioned what was happening to her or the fact that she could be sooo clueless at times but I believe that most books you read are going to have something that annoys you. This is a wonderful read with one hell of an amazing ending! I can't wait for Elemental #2!!
March 15, 2015
I was very uncertain as to what I was getting into with this book when I started reading it, mostly because I've never really been a reader of the sci/fi and fantasy genre. That said, I was pleasantly surprised. I will admit that it took me a while to get into it, mostly due to information overload, but all the information was necessary in the long run. My overly-logical brain soon realized that I was enjoying this book and the little universe I'd been tossed into. I get the feeling that this book is only the tip of the iceberg, so to speak, and I will be reading the second one in the series. Well done, Hally Willmott! It seems I like the fantasy genre after all!
May 20, 2013
Rating : 3.5 stars.
A very satisfying read, it started off slow paced but progressed in to an exciting, magical adventure.
Jacey Adison has always had strange, colourful, lifelike dreams and has known there is something a bit different about herself and her family. However, she has never questioned what those differences are. Now that she is sixteen years old, the dreams are becoming even more intense and even weirder. When her parents are killed suddenly in a road traffic accident, she finds out that she belongs to a unique, ancient, magical world.
As I said the book starts off slow paced but I didn’t mind this as it gives us a chance to get to know Hally and her family. However there is a bit of telling rather than showing exposition which takes a bit from the pace and flow of the book. It is well worth persisting though as the world that Hally Willmott has created is beautiful, so beautiful that I wish this was a novel that had some illustrations as I would love a picture representation of some of the aspects described.
There are some very unique elements in this book. It takes a while for Jacey (and so us) to find out about this world that she is so central to and what her true faith is. Once the reveal starts to happen, there is a lot of detail to take in, everything is vividly described and I loved it. Jacey possesses some rare abilities and I have a feeling with this first book, we have only seen the tip of iceberg.
I have seen other reviews mention insta-love in relation to Jacey’s connection with Vincent in the magical domain of Nemele. However, I don’t see it like this. Vincent is a dream walker and so has been present in her dreams for a long time which helps to explain the intense connection between them. What I would like to have seen was a few more natural, fun, typical teenage moments between Jacey and Vincent, this would have given more of an insight and added more reality to the bond they have.
I liked all the characters, even though I wished Jacey had asked more questions sooner so we could have discovered what was going on sooner! She was a bit too accepting of being fobbed off with excuses of needing to wait to find out the truth. If I knew my best friend and brother knew secrets I didn’t, believe me I would get it out of them! By hook or by crook, I would make them spill the details! Also, there is a large cast of characters to get to know and to keep straight, something I did find difficult at times. In fairness, I do think this is something that can be expected to an extent with any first book, especially one that has as much world building as Awakenings.
Another thing I have to cover is the Harry Potter similarities; they do exist to a certain degree. However this book is in no way a copycat or watered down version of Harry Potter. I would think the author is a JK fan and has probably been inspired by her but she has created a very unique, strange, wonderful world with a very unique plot.
Now the stage is set and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. I have a very good feeling about it; this is only the beginning of the Elementals adventure, an adventure that I’m excited to journey along in.
A very satisfying read, it started off slow paced but progressed in to an exciting, magical adventure.
Jacey Adison has always had strange, colourful, lifelike dreams and has known there is something a bit different about herself and her family. However, she has never questioned what those differences are. Now that she is sixteen years old, the dreams are becoming even more intense and even weirder. When her parents are killed suddenly in a road traffic accident, she finds out that she belongs to a unique, ancient, magical world.
As I said the book starts off slow paced but I didn’t mind this as it gives us a chance to get to know Hally and her family. However there is a bit of telling rather than showing exposition which takes a bit from the pace and flow of the book. It is well worth persisting though as the world that Hally Willmott has created is beautiful, so beautiful that I wish this was a novel that had some illustrations as I would love a picture representation of some of the aspects described.
There are some very unique elements in this book. It takes a while for Jacey (and so us) to find out about this world that she is so central to and what her true faith is. Once the reveal starts to happen, there is a lot of detail to take in, everything is vividly described and I loved it. Jacey possesses some rare abilities and I have a feeling with this first book, we have only seen the tip of iceberg.
I have seen other reviews mention insta-love in relation to Jacey’s connection with Vincent in the magical domain of Nemele. However, I don’t see it like this. Vincent is a dream walker and so has been present in her dreams for a long time which helps to explain the intense connection between them. What I would like to have seen was a few more natural, fun, typical teenage moments between Jacey and Vincent, this would have given more of an insight and added more reality to the bond they have.
I liked all the characters, even though I wished Jacey had asked more questions sooner so we could have discovered what was going on sooner! She was a bit too accepting of being fobbed off with excuses of needing to wait to find out the truth. If I knew my best friend and brother knew secrets I didn’t, believe me I would get it out of them! By hook or by crook, I would make them spill the details! Also, there is a large cast of characters to get to know and to keep straight, something I did find difficult at times. In fairness, I do think this is something that can be expected to an extent with any first book, especially one that has as much world building as Awakenings.
Another thing I have to cover is the Harry Potter similarities; they do exist to a certain degree. However this book is in no way a copycat or watered down version of Harry Potter. I would think the author is a JK fan and has probably been inspired by her but she has created a very unique, strange, wonderful world with a very unique plot.
Now the stage is set and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. I have a very good feeling about it; this is only the beginning of the Elementals adventure, an adventure that I’m excited to journey along in.
August 3, 2014
Awakenings by Hally Willmott is a family-oriented supernatural tale centering on the life and times of the Adison family. Jacey’s parents are killed in an automobile accident, leaving her with her best friend Jen, her brother Hudson and her Aunt Grace to help pick up the pieces. Only a dream sequence brings her face-to-face with her dead parents, who reveal to her the true nature of her family history and her personal destiny. Jacey finds that her family are citizens of Nemele from an alternate universe that manifests itself on earth as the gods, goddesses and monsters of fable and fiction. Jacey finds herself caught in a conflict between the Nemelites and the Yietimpis in a struggle for mastery of the universe.
The theme of fidelity resonates throughout the novel as the foursome set out on the course of Origin which will reveal to them the true nature of the crusade ahead. Their bond is soon extended to include their Nemelite brethren, with the trusty Vincent Wills as the guide who helps Jacey along the next part of her quest. Eventually Jacey realizes her own journey is part of a greater conflict between the Elders and the Sect of Yietimpi. The test is great and the road proves treacherous, but Jacey and her friends are intent on helping her find her place as a true student of St. Nemele.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see a sequel, and neither will you. Pick up a copy of Awakenings by Hally Willmott and climb aboard for a great adventure.
The theme of fidelity resonates throughout the novel as the foursome set out on the course of Origin which will reveal to them the true nature of the crusade ahead. Their bond is soon extended to include their Nemelite brethren, with the trusty Vincent Wills as the guide who helps Jacey along the next part of her quest. Eventually Jacey realizes her own journey is part of a greater conflict between the Elders and the Sect of Yietimpi. The test is great and the road proves treacherous, but Jacey and her friends are intent on helping her find her place as a true student of St. Nemele.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see a sequel, and neither will you. Pick up a copy of Awakenings by Hally Willmott and climb aboard for a great adventure.
September 18, 2014
Another great series in the paranormal genre like The Tapestry Series by Henry Neff.
February 14, 2014
I received this book through Reviewer Match Services for free, where I am a reviewer, in exchange for my honest opinion. I’ll start by saying this: the book was amazing. It was fantastic, different, wonderful, magical, and all things lovely in a book filled with suspense and the unknown. For a YA paranormal book, I am always looking for a certain writing style, something that screams “young viewpoint.” It can be difficult for an author to write with a youthful voice, yet Willmott does it with ease. I won’t bore you with a retelling of the synopsis; you can read that about the book for yourself. So I’ll just give you my opinion of the book and the characters.
Jacey had me hooked from page 1 and kept me interested until the end. Jacey is a gifted teenager of 16 who doesn’t know her own powers and is frequently kept in the dark about her true destiny by everyone around her. She takes most of it in stride, including the tragedy and horror that touches her life early on in the book, and she grows into her own very quickly. Nothing surprises her, not really, and she already has vast knowledge tucked away in that head of hers about things that most of us cannot fathom to understand, let alone accept. It just comes out of her at will when she sees or experiences something totally weird, unexplainable or strange. She is a powerhouse, an anomaly the likes of which none have seen…and I don’t think even she understands yet how much of one she is. I hope to see her grow more in future books. She very quickly won over my heart.
Hudson is the type of brother I think every sister wishes she had. He’s cute, charming, protective, loving, supportive, and heck, even annoying…everything a big brother should be. I loved his character and how he just accepts and shoulders massive responsibility when tragedy hits, without a single backward glance. It is what it is, therefore he handles it with amazing calm.
Jen is the best, best friend a girl like Jacey could have. She is supportive, friendly, loving, caring, always there when needed and protective too. Jacey didn’t learn until later on in the book how much of a friend Jen is, or why, but when things come out, it��s nothing short of wonderful to see the progression of their friendship into something more solid and long lasting. I can truly see a future between them that includes the entire family, and that is special.
Aunt Grace is that one family member that Jacey, Hudson (and even Jen) can rely on. She’s the rock, the voice of reason, the caretaker, the love and support, and yes, the adult. Once tragedy hits, and you learn just how much it affects her and why, her ability to stand up, take charge, and keep things sane is really admirable.
Vincent is the hunky, mysterious, completely risky, yet also comforting and supportive, wise beyond his year’s sort of boy that I can totally see Jacey falling completely head over heels in love with. I can’t wait to read what more is to come from their budding relationship in future books.
The bottom line: the plot is completely unpredictable and will take you down a mythical road of mystery, suspense, budding love, friendship, tragedy, family, history and destiny. There was a lot of background information given, which is completely expected in the first book of a series. The author has to build the world, and Willmott does a fantastic job of not hitting you over the head with it. It flowed very well, and I did not find myself confused about a single element. Willmott describes things is amazing crystal quality, explaining the connections between worlds and realms, so that even a beginner to mythology can somewhat understand. However, I think it would (and does) help to know a little Greek mythology before reading. Not required, but when mythical names and types of beings pop up throughout the book, if you can connect the dots to what you may have learned in school as a kid, you’ll enjoy the book more :) It probably wasn’t until the last 5 chapters that I finally realized what Nevaeh was/stood for. Once I did, everything that transpires in the book is just that much more amazing. Can you figure it out too?? I just could not put this book down, it was absolutely stunning and I cannot wait for book 2! This book will be on my mind for a long time to come, and I’m giving it a solid 5 stars. I would give it more stars if that were possible…it is that good.
Jacey had me hooked from page 1 and kept me interested until the end. Jacey is a gifted teenager of 16 who doesn’t know her own powers and is frequently kept in the dark about her true destiny by everyone around her. She takes most of it in stride, including the tragedy and horror that touches her life early on in the book, and she grows into her own very quickly. Nothing surprises her, not really, and she already has vast knowledge tucked away in that head of hers about things that most of us cannot fathom to understand, let alone accept. It just comes out of her at will when she sees or experiences something totally weird, unexplainable or strange. She is a powerhouse, an anomaly the likes of which none have seen…and I don’t think even she understands yet how much of one she is. I hope to see her grow more in future books. She very quickly won over my heart.
Hudson is the type of brother I think every sister wishes she had. He’s cute, charming, protective, loving, supportive, and heck, even annoying…everything a big brother should be. I loved his character and how he just accepts and shoulders massive responsibility when tragedy hits, without a single backward glance. It is what it is, therefore he handles it with amazing calm.
Jen is the best, best friend a girl like Jacey could have. She is supportive, friendly, loving, caring, always there when needed and protective too. Jacey didn’t learn until later on in the book how much of a friend Jen is, or why, but when things come out, it��s nothing short of wonderful to see the progression of their friendship into something more solid and long lasting. I can truly see a future between them that includes the entire family, and that is special.
Aunt Grace is that one family member that Jacey, Hudson (and even Jen) can rely on. She’s the rock, the voice of reason, the caretaker, the love and support, and yes, the adult. Once tragedy hits, and you learn just how much it affects her and why, her ability to stand up, take charge, and keep things sane is really admirable.
Vincent is the hunky, mysterious, completely risky, yet also comforting and supportive, wise beyond his year’s sort of boy that I can totally see Jacey falling completely head over heels in love with. I can’t wait to read what more is to come from their budding relationship in future books.
The bottom line: the plot is completely unpredictable and will take you down a mythical road of mystery, suspense, budding love, friendship, tragedy, family, history and destiny. There was a lot of background information given, which is completely expected in the first book of a series. The author has to build the world, and Willmott does a fantastic job of not hitting you over the head with it. It flowed very well, and I did not find myself confused about a single element. Willmott describes things is amazing crystal quality, explaining the connections between worlds and realms, so that even a beginner to mythology can somewhat understand. However, I think it would (and does) help to know a little Greek mythology before reading. Not required, but when mythical names and types of beings pop up throughout the book, if you can connect the dots to what you may have learned in school as a kid, you’ll enjoy the book more :) It probably wasn’t until the last 5 chapters that I finally realized what Nevaeh was/stood for. Once I did, everything that transpires in the book is just that much more amazing. Can you figure it out too?? I just could not put this book down, it was absolutely stunning and I cannot wait for book 2! This book will be on my mind for a long time to come, and I’m giving it a solid 5 stars. I would give it more stars if that were possible…it is that good.
May 13, 2013
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free as part of the Blog Tour in exchange for an honest review.
My thoughts: Awakenings is the first book in the new Young Adult Fantasy series Elementals and it's Hally Willmott debut novel. The book portraits the mysterious, strange and uniquely fresh story of Jacey Adison.
Jacey is a sixteen-year-old girl who has always know she's not normal, because no matter where she goes with her nomad family, she never seems to fit in. That's until they arrive to Hewfawe, North Ontario, where she meets Jen -her best friend- and she finally stars feeling like she belongs. It's been over a year now since they first arrived and that's the longest time they've stayed in the same place. But something gets in the way: Jacey is having those weird dreams again, the ones that start with a lot of colors and feature this blue-eyed being she finds so comforting and mysterious at the same time. This new dream is especially bad though, because she sees her parents get swallowed by a terrifying darkness.
She knows she should say something, warn them, but she cannot stand the idea of moving out again, so she keeps it to herself for a while until she feels the need to tell Hudson -her big brother- about the dream, because there is something about it so haunting and it doesn't feel right.
But it's too late, somehow her parents had got into a mysterious car accident and now they're dead. Along with the pain, the loss and the guilt for not telling them sooner about the dream, Jacey now has to deal with another moving, another city, another school and all the weird dreams and experiences she's been having without the guidance of her parents. Luckily for her and Hudson, they still have Aunt Grace who has taken them under her care and is driving them to their new home, Nemele, where their parents used to live. But there is something, some kind of danger that everyone seems to be aware of, except for Jacey that is.
Soon she will discover she is, indeed, very different and that she has amazing powers she never knew of, which makes her part of the Nemelites, a secret society her parents belonged to, but at the same time those powers put her in a huge danger, because the Yietimpi, their eternal enemies are now after her, expecting to use her to their advantage.
On top of that she unexpectedly meets the blue-eyed guy who's been haunting her in her dreams. And learns that everything is so much more complicated that she would have ever imagined.
What I love most about this book was the world building. It's a fresh concept and I love how the idea of the secret society and this whole new dimension plays out. I think it's pretty original, I for sure haven't read anything like it before.
I did have some problems with the book, though. The first one was that it wasn't easy for me to feel related to the main character, Jacey. She's not annoying or whinny (the type of character I hate) but somehow she didn't seem all that realistic to me. I mean, her reactions were too passive... I'm not looking for a drama queen, but come on! The things that are happening to her are huge! Why doesn't she freak out like a normal person? But the more I read, the less I care about that, because the story was truly interesting and Jacey also started to seem more relatable to me.
The other thing that bugged me were the little summaries below every chapter title. There were like four lines telling you basically what's coming next. I do not like spoilers, so if you don't like them either, don't read those lines. At first they were driving me crazy, but then I just choose to ignore them and everything went better.
Overall, I think Awakening is a great read, full of mysteries, action and where the weirdness keeps coming your way. It's a story with a sensational new world to explore that would keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book!
My thoughts: Awakenings is the first book in the new Young Adult Fantasy series Elementals and it's Hally Willmott debut novel. The book portraits the mysterious, strange and uniquely fresh story of Jacey Adison.
Jacey is a sixteen-year-old girl who has always know she's not normal, because no matter where she goes with her nomad family, she never seems to fit in. That's until they arrive to Hewfawe, North Ontario, where she meets Jen -her best friend- and she finally stars feeling like she belongs. It's been over a year now since they first arrived and that's the longest time they've stayed in the same place. But something gets in the way: Jacey is having those weird dreams again, the ones that start with a lot of colors and feature this blue-eyed being she finds so comforting and mysterious at the same time. This new dream is especially bad though, because she sees her parents get swallowed by a terrifying darkness.
She knows she should say something, warn them, but she cannot stand the idea of moving out again, so she keeps it to herself for a while until she feels the need to tell Hudson -her big brother- about the dream, because there is something about it so haunting and it doesn't feel right.
But it's too late, somehow her parents had got into a mysterious car accident and now they're dead. Along with the pain, the loss and the guilt for not telling them sooner about the dream, Jacey now has to deal with another moving, another city, another school and all the weird dreams and experiences she's been having without the guidance of her parents. Luckily for her and Hudson, they still have Aunt Grace who has taken them under her care and is driving them to their new home, Nemele, where their parents used to live. But there is something, some kind of danger that everyone seems to be aware of, except for Jacey that is.
Soon she will discover she is, indeed, very different and that she has amazing powers she never knew of, which makes her part of the Nemelites, a secret society her parents belonged to, but at the same time those powers put her in a huge danger, because the Yietimpi, their eternal enemies are now after her, expecting to use her to their advantage.
On top of that she unexpectedly meets the blue-eyed guy who's been haunting her in her dreams. And learns that everything is so much more complicated that she would have ever imagined.
What I love most about this book was the world building. It's a fresh concept and I love how the idea of the secret society and this whole new dimension plays out. I think it's pretty original, I for sure haven't read anything like it before.
I did have some problems with the book, though. The first one was that it wasn't easy for me to feel related to the main character, Jacey. She's not annoying or whinny (the type of character I hate) but somehow she didn't seem all that realistic to me. I mean, her reactions were too passive... I'm not looking for a drama queen, but come on! The things that are happening to her are huge! Why doesn't she freak out like a normal person? But the more I read, the less I care about that, because the story was truly interesting and Jacey also started to seem more relatable to me.
The other thing that bugged me were the little summaries below every chapter title. There were like four lines telling you basically what's coming next. I do not like spoilers, so if you don't like them either, don't read those lines. At first they were driving me crazy, but then I just choose to ignore them and everything went better.
Overall, I think Awakening is a great read, full of mysteries, action and where the weirdness keeps coming your way. It's a story with a sensational new world to explore that would keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book!
May 7, 2013
Being the first book in a series, Hally does a lot of world building and really immerses us readers into Jacey's world. It is quite a bit of information to take in, especially towards the end as everything begins to be revealed. The pace is a bit on the slower side, as Willmott slowly brings us into the mystical aspect of the novel. I think she did a great job of setting us up for the next installment of the Elementals series. I love it when books give us just enough, but then leave us wanting more (without adding in a huge cliffhanger!)
Jacey is our main character, who at 16, has had some very strange dreams. Dreams that have caused her and her family to have to move on multiple occasions. Jacey, however, is unaware of these reasons. She can't help but feel that her family is keeping things from her.
Jacey was a pretty likeable protagonist, and I found myself really empathizing for her, as she is constantly kept in the dark for her own protection. I can imagine how frustrated she must feel that her brother, her parents, her aunt, and even her best friend always seem to know things she doesn't.
Hudson, her older brother, is very protective of her and while that would irritate me, it was actually very sweet. The two depend and lean on each other in times of need and I think it was important to set their relationship up that way.
Jen, Jacey's best friend, is loyal and while she is harboring a few secrets, she cares for Jacey and once the truth is revealed, she hates that she had to lie to her friend, even if it was for protection. She is able to accompany Jacey and Hudson to their new home in Nemele, after they are forced to move yet again to live their aunt.
Jacey and her brother Hudson's world is rocked to the core as they experience a horrific tragedy. This event causes a spiral of new events that will change their lives completely. They must depend on each other and will once again have to uproot their lives and begin anew. However, thanks to their aunt and close friend, Jen, they will not be alone. As Jacey continues to experience these strange dreams, she also begins to pick up on bits and pieces of conversation between the others that she doesn't understand and she sees things that she can't explain. Not to mention, a boy with clear blue eyes is also making an appearance in her dreams. A boy who makes her feel safe- and she is inexplicably drawn to.
Vincent, we later learn his name is, is able to communicate with Jacey through her dreams. He is her safe haven, if you will, and is able to calm her when she is afraid. This is a bit of insta-love, which I am not usually a fan of, but they do have an actual connection that we learn about towards the end, so it's not completely out of nowhere. When the two finally meet in person, he is kind and patient, and genuinely wants to help make Jacey's transition to a new place as easy as possible.
We are introduced to a few more key characters toward the end, that I'm sure we will see more of in the next novel.
Overall, this is a book that begins quite normally and then progresses into a mystical, magical read that takes us to new dimensions and introduces us to a world we never knew existed.
Jacey is our main character, who at 16, has had some very strange dreams. Dreams that have caused her and her family to have to move on multiple occasions. Jacey, however, is unaware of these reasons. She can't help but feel that her family is keeping things from her.
Jacey was a pretty likeable protagonist, and I found myself really empathizing for her, as she is constantly kept in the dark for her own protection. I can imagine how frustrated she must feel that her brother, her parents, her aunt, and even her best friend always seem to know things she doesn't.
Hudson, her older brother, is very protective of her and while that would irritate me, it was actually very sweet. The two depend and lean on each other in times of need and I think it was important to set their relationship up that way.
Jen, Jacey's best friend, is loyal and while she is harboring a few secrets, she cares for Jacey and once the truth is revealed, she hates that she had to lie to her friend, even if it was for protection. She is able to accompany Jacey and Hudson to their new home in Nemele, after they are forced to move yet again to live their aunt.
Jacey and her brother Hudson's world is rocked to the core as they experience a horrific tragedy. This event causes a spiral of new events that will change their lives completely. They must depend on each other and will once again have to uproot their lives and begin anew. However, thanks to their aunt and close friend, Jen, they will not be alone. As Jacey continues to experience these strange dreams, she also begins to pick up on bits and pieces of conversation between the others that she doesn't understand and she sees things that she can't explain. Not to mention, a boy with clear blue eyes is also making an appearance in her dreams. A boy who makes her feel safe- and she is inexplicably drawn to.
Vincent, we later learn his name is, is able to communicate with Jacey through her dreams. He is her safe haven, if you will, and is able to calm her when she is afraid. This is a bit of insta-love, which I am not usually a fan of, but they do have an actual connection that we learn about towards the end, so it's not completely out of nowhere. When the two finally meet in person, he is kind and patient, and genuinely wants to help make Jacey's transition to a new place as easy as possible.
We are introduced to a few more key characters toward the end, that I'm sure we will see more of in the next novel.
Overall, this is a book that begins quite normally and then progresses into a mystical, magical read that takes us to new dimensions and introduces us to a world we never knew existed.
May 18, 2013
'I've always believed there was more...I'd have to be pretty blind not to.'
Stay together. Stay alive.
Jacey Adison's life has always lacked a sense of permanency. She's always been the new kid, the one whose family could - at any time, or at a moment's notice - pack up and move...leaving everything behind.
But there are some things you can't run from forever. Things that Jacey's parents have tried to protect her and her brother Hudson from, time and time again. Things that are intent on breaking their family apart.
Secrets bring us together. Secrets tear us apart.
As Jacey begins to question the circumstances surrounding her parents' death, she also begins to wonder if everything in her life is as black and white as she once believed. Dreams that she once thought were the figments of her slumbering mind may have sinister connotations, holding in them the key to Jacey's past, her legacy and her future. People who she once thought were friends may have roles in her destiny that she never imagined.
But one thing's for sure: Jacey's family is keeping something from her. And she'll stop at nothing to find out what it is.
Love lost. Love found.
Jacey's dreams become more and more frequent - muddled and confusing they bombard her with the forms of her parents, lurking evils and a pair of piercing blue eyes. The lines between dreams and reality starts to blur, and a sense of deja vu settles over her as she is faced with people whom she has never met and yet feels drawn to.
People who seem to know more about Jacey than she does. People who are not of this world.
A people called the Nemele.
Do you believe in magic?
As the secrets of her heritage and her destiny are revealed, Jacey will be forced to come face to face with shocking truths - developing rare mystical abilities, forging unbreakable bonds, and confronting the evil that her parents have tried to shield her from for so long. Jacey has the power to save the world or destroy it, making her a valuable chess piece coveted by both sides of an age-old battle.
But which side will prevail?
Finality. Answers. Introspective. Trust. Hope.
A journey of faith. A journey of fate.
(For the version of this review on my blog, or more of my reviews, go here: http://21stcenturyonceuponatime.blogs... )
Stay together. Stay alive.
Jacey Adison's life has always lacked a sense of permanency. She's always been the new kid, the one whose family could - at any time, or at a moment's notice - pack up and move...leaving everything behind.
But there are some things you can't run from forever. Things that Jacey's parents have tried to protect her and her brother Hudson from, time and time again. Things that are intent on breaking their family apart.
Secrets bring us together. Secrets tear us apart.
As Jacey begins to question the circumstances surrounding her parents' death, she also begins to wonder if everything in her life is as black and white as she once believed. Dreams that she once thought were the figments of her slumbering mind may have sinister connotations, holding in them the key to Jacey's past, her legacy and her future. People who she once thought were friends may have roles in her destiny that she never imagined.
But one thing's for sure: Jacey's family is keeping something from her. And she'll stop at nothing to find out what it is.
Love lost. Love found.
Jacey's dreams become more and more frequent - muddled and confusing they bombard her with the forms of her parents, lurking evils and a pair of piercing blue eyes. The lines between dreams and reality starts to blur, and a sense of deja vu settles over her as she is faced with people whom she has never met and yet feels drawn to.
People who seem to know more about Jacey than she does. People who are not of this world.
A people called the Nemele.
Do you believe in magic?
As the secrets of her heritage and her destiny are revealed, Jacey will be forced to come face to face with shocking truths - developing rare mystical abilities, forging unbreakable bonds, and confronting the evil that her parents have tried to shield her from for so long. Jacey has the power to save the world or destroy it, making her a valuable chess piece coveted by both sides of an age-old battle.
But which side will prevail?
Finality. Answers. Introspective. Trust. Hope.
A journey of faith. A journey of fate.
(For the version of this review on my blog, or more of my reviews, go here: http://21stcenturyonceuponatime.blogs... )
May 9, 2013
I was absolutely captivated by Awakenings! Seriously, it is books like this that make me wonder how I functioned before Amazon's Kindle apps letting me read on any device... so I almost never have to put the book down. If you are looking to escape your reality for a bit, then you have to pick up Awakenings. I was so engrossed that I lost complete track of time!
So here is why I fell in love with Awakenings. First, it is so well written! Hally Willmott doesn't make the reader imagine any details. Instead, she acts as our tour guide as we experience this entirely new world that we otherwise could never have even dreamt of. She vividly describes not only every sight and sound, but emotion, smell, and texture. So as readers, we are not just reading a story, we are experiencing it along with the characters.
Second love, the characters. Even when 16 year old, Jacey's world is flipped upside down, she remains a strong character. Yes, she does have to fight against feelings of insecurity, but let's be honest here... what 16 year old doesn't? For me, the range of Jacey's emotions were one thing that really made the story believable and brought it to life. And of course, there is Vincent... oh Vincent. There is a little bit of a Beautiful Creatures type bond between Jacey and Vincent in the beginning where she only knows him in her dreams, and even then can only see his brilliant blue eyes. But once they meet, he is her anchor. And isn't that what all of us girls want in our men, an anchor? So by the end of the book, you will want to push Jacey out of the way a bit (even though you love her) just to get your hands on Vincent because let's face it... he is perfect.
So overall, I thought that Awakenings was sweet, original, and an absolute joy to read! So curl up this weekend with your new fictional boyfriend, Vincent. I can promise that it will be love at first read.
So here is why I fell in love with Awakenings. First, it is so well written! Hally Willmott doesn't make the reader imagine any details. Instead, she acts as our tour guide as we experience this entirely new world that we otherwise could never have even dreamt of. She vividly describes not only every sight and sound, but emotion, smell, and texture. So as readers, we are not just reading a story, we are experiencing it along with the characters.
Second love, the characters. Even when 16 year old, Jacey's world is flipped upside down, she remains a strong character. Yes, she does have to fight against feelings of insecurity, but let's be honest here... what 16 year old doesn't? For me, the range of Jacey's emotions were one thing that really made the story believable and brought it to life. And of course, there is Vincent... oh Vincent. There is a little bit of a Beautiful Creatures type bond between Jacey and Vincent in the beginning where she only knows him in her dreams, and even then can only see his brilliant blue eyes. But once they meet, he is her anchor. And isn't that what all of us girls want in our men, an anchor? So by the end of the book, you will want to push Jacey out of the way a bit (even though you love her) just to get your hands on Vincent because let's face it... he is perfect.
So overall, I thought that Awakenings was sweet, original, and an absolute joy to read! So curl up this weekend with your new fictional boyfriend, Vincent. I can promise that it will be love at first read.
August 27, 2013
For more reviews visit: http://livinginabookworld.blogspot.gr
Awakenings is weird,wonderful and totally worth reading!An amazing first book in a new and mysterious series by promising debut author Hally Willmott.
The heroine of this book is Jacey,a sixteen-year-old girl with odd dreams full of colors,auras and an entity with crystal blue eyes that she can't seem to get out of her head.She always knew that she wasn't a normal teenager but nobody told her anything.So when one day her parents die in a mysterious car accident,Jacey and her brother Hudson are left behind and get to live with their aunt in Nevaeh, their mother's hometown.Along with them,comes Jacey's best friend and Hudson's more-than-a-friend-girl,Jen.
All seems good so far,but that changes when an unexpected attack by a being that is not human both frightens and confuses Jacey,because during the attack she unleashes her true powers and that makes her two things:a) a member of the Nemelites,a secret society that has existed for thousands of millennia and b) a target for the Yietimpi, Nemelites' eternal nemesis.
And that's not all.Jacey is the only one who can see her parents' spirits and allow others to see them as well. Apart from all this,she's still a teenager who must attend high school.So new town,new school.
On their first day Jacey,Hudson and Jen are supposed to meet Vincent,a boy who will show them around.Imagine Jacey's surprise when she sees him and realizes that Vincent is the boy she sees in her dreams.And it gets more complicated because their school is in Nemele,their real home, which is in another dimension.
The clock is ticking and there's not much time left because the Yietimpi are lurking in the shadows waiting for the right time to attack and capture Jacey.
Overall, Awakenings is a fresh and full of mystery and action book that will captivate you from the first pages!
Awakenings is weird,wonderful and totally worth reading!An amazing first book in a new and mysterious series by promising debut author Hally Willmott.
The heroine of this book is Jacey,a sixteen-year-old girl with odd dreams full of colors,auras and an entity with crystal blue eyes that she can't seem to get out of her head.She always knew that she wasn't a normal teenager but nobody told her anything.So when one day her parents die in a mysterious car accident,Jacey and her brother Hudson are left behind and get to live with their aunt in Nevaeh, their mother's hometown.Along with them,comes Jacey's best friend and Hudson's more-than-a-friend-girl,Jen.
All seems good so far,but that changes when an unexpected attack by a being that is not human both frightens and confuses Jacey,because during the attack she unleashes her true powers and that makes her two things:a) a member of the Nemelites,a secret society that has existed for thousands of millennia and b) a target for the Yietimpi, Nemelites' eternal nemesis.
And that's not all.Jacey is the only one who can see her parents' spirits and allow others to see them as well. Apart from all this,she's still a teenager who must attend high school.So new town,new school.
On their first day Jacey,Hudson and Jen are supposed to meet Vincent,a boy who will show them around.Imagine Jacey's surprise when she sees him and realizes that Vincent is the boy she sees in her dreams.And it gets more complicated because their school is in Nemele,their real home, which is in another dimension.
The clock is ticking and there's not much time left because the Yietimpi are lurking in the shadows waiting for the right time to attack and capture Jacey.
Overall, Awakenings is a fresh and full of mystery and action book that will captivate you from the first pages!
May 11, 2013
review originally posted on The Page Turners
4 stars review.
I thought this book was a bit strange and weird, sometimes in a good way, and sometimes in a bad way. Awakenings was unexpected, I thought it was going to be a paranormal fantasy story about a world other than the human existence but it was a bit complicated than that.
Well, it was a bit different that what I was accustomed to. First we get to meet Jacey, she is quiet and has a best friend called Jenny. We also get to meet her brother, I have a bit of a problem when I was wondering if he was older or younger than Jacey. Sometimes he acted as though he was older, but sometimes he acted as though he was younger.
The story leads on with Jacey wondering why their family keeps moving after her parents' sudden death during a car accident. I have to say, for me, Jacey was a bit weak. I mean, she acted as though I could just pinch her and she would fall in a heap. Or maybe that was because I'm more used to brave and strong girls (you know what I mean? GIRL POWER!!). But Jacey seemed to accept what everybody says to her.
This story was really confusing at first, and I found it really hard to understand until I was about 50% through. This book was a bit slow-going and if it was a bit more fast-paced, it would've been really exciting.
But overall, I actually really liked this book, I love how Hally kept the part of the story hidden, hiding parts and parts out as I get more confused. But really that was what made me want to read the rest of the book. Because it was so confusing, I just had to find out what was the story behind all of the houses that Jacey and her family had to move into and all of the secrets behind her parents' past.
4 stars review.
I thought this book was a bit strange and weird, sometimes in a good way, and sometimes in a bad way. Awakenings was unexpected, I thought it was going to be a paranormal fantasy story about a world other than the human existence but it was a bit complicated than that.
Well, it was a bit different that what I was accustomed to. First we get to meet Jacey, she is quiet and has a best friend called Jenny. We also get to meet her brother, I have a bit of a problem when I was wondering if he was older or younger than Jacey. Sometimes he acted as though he was older, but sometimes he acted as though he was younger.
The story leads on with Jacey wondering why their family keeps moving after her parents' sudden death during a car accident. I have to say, for me, Jacey was a bit weak. I mean, she acted as though I could just pinch her and she would fall in a heap. Or maybe that was because I'm more used to brave and strong girls (you know what I mean? GIRL POWER!!). But Jacey seemed to accept what everybody says to her.
This story was really confusing at first, and I found it really hard to understand until I was about 50% through. This book was a bit slow-going and if it was a bit more fast-paced, it would've been really exciting.
But overall, I actually really liked this book, I love how Hally kept the part of the story hidden, hiding parts and parts out as I get more confused. But really that was what made me want to read the rest of the book. Because it was so confusing, I just had to find out what was the story behind all of the houses that Jacey and her family had to move into and all of the secrets behind her parents' past.
January 22, 2014
Jacey's parents had been moving her and her brother Hudson all their lives. she never thought about questioning their decisions, until now when she found her parents dead, killed in an accident that the police claimed was no accident. Aunt Grace, her mother's twin sister took the siblings in, brought them back to her house and their birthplace. they were the Nemelite, people that held magical powers, always hunted by those who longed for powers. her parents hid them on Earth, concealing her true lineage from her with the hope keeping them safe.
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. brought up in a different way than other Nemelite, Jacey knew nothing about her birthright until her parents' death. to make things worst, she possessed a rare ability even among the Nemelite, which will caused her to become the savior or downfall of her people. the intensity of the plot remained high throughout the book, making it impossibly difficult to put down once i got a slight taste of it. for the first half of the book, the mysteriousness and suspense was quite frustrating to deal with yet at the very same time, curiosity was eating me from within. i was more than surprised to find myself not skipping pages just to know what happen next. soon, getting a glimpse of Jacey's ability was so rewarding that i only wanted more doses of it!
my review: here
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. brought up in a different way than other Nemelite, Jacey knew nothing about her birthright until her parents' death. to make things worst, she possessed a rare ability even among the Nemelite, which will caused her to become the savior or downfall of her people. the intensity of the plot remained high throughout the book, making it impossibly difficult to put down once i got a slight taste of it. for the first half of the book, the mysteriousness and suspense was quite frustrating to deal with yet at the very same time, curiosity was eating me from within. i was more than surprised to find myself not skipping pages just to know what happen next. soon, getting a glimpse of Jacey's ability was so rewarding that i only wanted more doses of it!
my review: here
August 18, 2013
3 stars or a strong 2.5. This is a tough rating for me actually. I didn't NOT like the book, but I had to slog through it. The writing is well done, the characters for the most part are lovely. I felt Jacey was a little juvenile for her 16 years. Jacey, and thus us, were given no hint or insight to what was going on in the story until 3/4 of the way through. I understand the need to build suspense but WOWZA. With all the crazy weird things happening around her, one would figure at some point Jacey would demand some answers a bit more. Once we do start getting those answers, the book is finished.
The story was about a world that is parallel to our own, except for Jacey's weird dreams and people having glowing colors. And then suddenly we are thrust into a Hogwarts-esque school with fairies and Zeus and elves. It may have been a smoother transition for me if Jacey had found it more bewildering as well.
So...not a bad book, but slow, and confusing, and felt more middle grade than YA. I bet other people may like it. Recommend for readers who love new worlds, fantasy, middle grade fantasy, can easily accept strange happenstances.
The story was about a world that is parallel to our own, except for Jacey's weird dreams and people having glowing colors. And then suddenly we are thrust into a Hogwarts-esque school with fairies and Zeus and elves. It may have been a smoother transition for me if Jacey had found it more bewildering as well.
So...not a bad book, but slow, and confusing, and felt more middle grade than YA. I bet other people may like it. Recommend for readers who love new worlds, fantasy, middle grade fantasy, can easily accept strange happenstances.
January 20, 2014
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
I loved this story!!! It's awesome. The characters are developed and mature and the dialogues are to the point and crisp. I loved the mystery and suspense, it kept me hooked to the story till the end.
The writing style of the author is remarkable and the detail descriptions that she delivered here through her enriched words really won over my heart and made me a part of the world that the author created so beautifully and most importantly the execution is brilliant which really made me believe in the plot and the characters.
The story is totally unpredictable with unknown twists and turns that are sure to shock you. The background information is good and I didn't feel lost while going in to the details of Nemele. Over all a great read that I would definitely recommend to all the fabulous readers out there. I'm sure you guys will enjoy this fresh and unique story as much as I did.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
I loved this story!!! It's awesome. The characters are developed and mature and the dialogues are to the point and crisp. I loved the mystery and suspense, it kept me hooked to the story till the end.
The writing style of the author is remarkable and the detail descriptions that she delivered here through her enriched words really won over my heart and made me a part of the world that the author created so beautifully and most importantly the execution is brilliant which really made me believe in the plot and the characters.
The story is totally unpredictable with unknown twists and turns that are sure to shock you. The background information is good and I didn't feel lost while going in to the details of Nemele. Over all a great read that I would definitely recommend to all the fabulous readers out there. I'm sure you guys will enjoy this fresh and unique story as much as I did.
June 5, 2013
I do love a great fantasy book and this one has lots of strange things without explanations happening every time. But the best part is for me was learning about a new world or as this case, a different dimension. I really liked Jacey and the story kept me hooked on her discovering's and the challenges she faced every day, but it took me awhile to actually get in the book, hence the 4 star rating.
Jacey is so full of live and she’s mostly not afraid of her future and what magic may bring to her life, it was really interesting seeing things happening and how much she suffered after her parents died right in the begin, but Jacey went through with her life and discovered a great deal of danger and drama.
I also liked Hudson and Jen, they are perfect as friends and family, both are very supportive and protective, but I liked how things turned for these two. I had some surprises toward the end of the book, but things were awesome.
Jacey is so full of live and she’s mostly not afraid of her future and what magic may bring to her life, it was really interesting seeing things happening and how much she suffered after her parents died right in the begin, but Jacey went through with her life and discovered a great deal of danger and drama.
I also liked Hudson and Jen, they are perfect as friends and family, both are very supportive and protective, but I liked how things turned for these two. I had some surprises toward the end of the book, but things were awesome.
May 11, 2013
I love this book and highly recommend it to all..young and old. The author tells the story with such vivid description that it brings you right into the book. You find yourself reading and visualizing the characters, the worlds, the buildings and the details and emotions described are so good you start believing you know these characters and that this alternate realm truly exists. I find the characters are easy to relate too and you cant help but love Jacey. She is sweet but does show a side you wouldn't want to mess with. I really enjoyed how the author brought familiar characters/fairy tales common to most people and gently immersed them into the story giving you just a little bit of familiarity among the unfamiliar. This again plays on the readers ability to visualize, relate and fully experience the story.
Anyone can enjoy this book the verbiage is youthful but not over the top and enjoyable for all ages. Very well written and I am excited for the next book.
Anyone can enjoy this book the verbiage is youthful but not over the top and enjoyable for all ages. Very well written and I am excited for the next book.
May 3, 2013
I will NOT read this! There is too much info-dumping about characters that are barely in the book, insta-love (I know it is there), a hot guy with, "beautiful, piercing blue eyes", and the main character is keeping secrets for no good reason. I can't. After trying to attempt "Thorn Abbey" I have no patience for this book. DNF!
June 2, 2014
I liked the book. It is different from what I usually read but I did enjoy it. I look forward to reading the rest of the series and I would like to congratulate Hally on writing such a great book. I would also like to thank Hally for coming to my school, CVDCS back in 2013 to introduce us to the book.
September 3, 2014
Complicated
the story is interesting but complicated. the main character accepts what she is told and never demands answers which in my opinion doesn't seem genuine. why doesn't she push for answers? why is the answer not yet good enough and why allow herself to be blindly led for the entire story? overall a good story though.
the story is interesting but complicated. the main character accepts what she is told and never demands answers which in my opinion doesn't seem genuine. why doesn't she push for answers? why is the answer not yet good enough and why allow herself to be blindly led for the entire story? overall a good story though.
May 9, 2013
Awakenings by Hally Wilmott is a good book. The book was full of great characters and lots of action. However, it was also a little confusing. I got lost in all the science fiction stuff. I kept trying to piece everything together but finally got it at the end.
October 17, 2013
you know, I'm not going to lie and say that this was my new favourite book.. because it wasn't. it was slow, and kinda interesting. but sometimes you need to read a slow paced book after an insane fast paced one, right? check this book out and lemme know if you feel the same. :P
August 13, 2016
Loved this Book! Kept me turning the pages, just couldn't put it down. The way she pulls you into the story and the lives of the characters is wonderful. I can not wait to read the rest of the series!
April 28, 2014
Awakenings was difficult to get into at first, but there was a lot to learn about this new world that Jacey was discovering. The more I read, the more I wanted to keep reading. Willmott has created a creative, fascinating realm filled with intriguing characters and a gripping storyline.
June 20, 2015
good book!
Did start rather sad and I did get emotional which is a good thing as meant I was invested!
However most of the action was crammed in the last bit of the book and got rather confusing to follow!
Could just be me tho as was reading whilst moving house!
would recommend!
Did start rather sad and I did get emotional which is a good thing as meant I was invested!
However most of the action was crammed in the last bit of the book and got rather confusing to follow!
Could just be me tho as was reading whilst moving house!
would recommend!
June 23, 2013
The dream sequences were so vivid I thought I was going to start having crazy dreams of my own! Hally did a great job pulling the reader in, and I look forward to reading more!
June 5, 2013
Kindle freebie. I've been trying to care about this book... But I'm 52% done and just can't read anymore.
Giving up.
Giving up.
June 10, 2013
I couldn't put it down. The author has created a compelling story where myth and fantasy become the new reality! You'll love it.
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