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Mad World #2
Tunnelville
Following their panicked escape from Wakefield, Astrid Chalke, Max Fisher, and their friends find themselves adrift and on the run in western Massachusetts. After picking up a young thief with a complex philosophy, and dealing with the pains of prescription drug withdrawal, they make their way to Boston.
Drained by a long trek to the city, the damaged teens settle in an underground tunnel community--a city below the city that appears to lie on the fringes of both the world above and the world of magic. Among the eccentric tunnel folk, they encounter the fabulous Angie DeVille, a self-made hipster and socialite who takes them under her neon wing and envelops them in her breathless and fast paced life.
Funded by a seemingly ruthless organization, the relentless Dr. Lycen is tasked to hunt down the Wakefield escapees. But as Astrid and Max eke out a meager existence in their new home and do their best to stay off Dr. Lycen's radar, they learn that new and even more harrowing threats might be lurking just over the horizon.
Drained by a long trek to the city, the damaged teens settle in an underground tunnel community--a city below the city that appears to lie on the fringes of both the world above and the world of magic. Among the eccentric tunnel folk, they encounter the fabulous Angie DeVille, a self-made hipster and socialite who takes them under her neon wing and envelops them in her breathless and fast paced life.
Funded by a seemingly ruthless organization, the relentless Dr. Lycen is tasked to hunt down the Wakefield escapees. But as Astrid and Max eke out a meager existence in their new home and do their best to stay off Dr. Lycen's radar, they learn that new and even more harrowing threats might be lurking just over the horizon.
- GenresParanormalYoung Adult
420 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2013
24 people want to read
About the author
Troy H. Gardner
18 books9 followersTroy H. Gardner was born in Florida but left at the ripe age of six months. He grew up and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in New England before returning to the Sunshine State just in time for Hurricane Irma.
He started writing stories on his Tandy Personal Computer as a child in the ’90s after devouring the works of Stephen King in elementary school.
Red is his favorite color, but blue hasn’t gotten the memo yet. He doesn’t understand why fans can’t equally love Star Wars and Star Trek (they’re different genres, people!). When Troy isn’t writing, or talking about writing, he enjoys killing hours on his PlayStation or watching horror movies (both really great and incredibly bad are his jam).
He started writing stories on his Tandy Personal Computer as a child in the ’90s after devouring the works of Stephen King in elementary school.
Red is his favorite color, but blue hasn’t gotten the memo yet. He doesn’t understand why fans can’t equally love Star Wars and Star Trek (they’re different genres, people!). When Troy isn’t writing, or talking about writing, he enjoys killing hours on his PlayStation or watching horror movies (both really great and incredibly bad are his jam).
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
August 26, 2020
There are spoilers ahead for Wakefield. Astrid and Max have escaped Wakefield with a handful of other patients, but their troubles are far from over. Lacking a safe place to go, they end up on the road toward Boston, (regretfully) stealing what they need to survive and hoping that a larger city will hide them. There they find Tunnelville, a small community beneath the city where they can catch their breaths, and a mysterious, charismatic woman named Angie who can show them the ropes on their powers. However, Dr. Lycen is hunting down escapees one by one, and his search brings him ever closer to the city–and judging by Max’s dreams, he isn’t the worst thing out there. Trigger warnings: death, violence, mental illness, schizophrenia, panic attacks, depression, potentially ableist descriptions, some off comments about a Jewish character, homelessness.
My feelings about series tend not to change throughout, and Tunnelville is about on the same level as Wakefield, with similar strengths and weaknesses. I stand by my original opinion that it’s an excellent series for readers looking for more indie/small press or self-published novels or who are tired of the familiar YA tropes and looking for something off the beaten path. The world-building in Mad World is one of the strongest things about it, and I enjoy it every time the novel explores or expands on a character’s powers, from Teddy’s synesthesia to Lawrence’s uncanny ability to know where he is and what direction the danger is coming from. Max’s prophetic dreams are, unfortunately, one of the weakest areas of the supernatural. They’re usually jumbled and silly (as dreams tend to be), and I don’t feel the novel spends enough time unraveling their significance later on.
The characters remain strong, and I like that we get to know some of the escaped patients a bit more, particularly Lawrence. Simon has also come a long way from Max’s bullying roommate to a kid who’s protective of his friends and feels safe enough with them not to lash out. Astrid’s relationship with Colby is a bit rushed and underdeveloped; I never quite managed to see what she sees in him or how she trusts him so easily, but I suppose that’s realistic for a teenage romance. Max’s friendship with Timothy is equally perplexing, and unless he’s due to surface in later books, there’s no clear reason for him to be in this story. Teddy is still kind of a loose cannon, and I can’t seem to pin him down (nor can Astrid, to her frustration). I’m also not fond of some of the descriptions of Timothy’s hearing disability (”Hearing Aid Guy”) or Angie’s referring to Laura as “Quiet Jew,” but those moments are fleeting (and you can take anything Angie says with a grain of salt, at best). I can see the attempt at a more diverse cast, even if it isn’t quite successful.
I found the pacing similar to Wakefield, both good and bad. It’s pretty slow for most of the book, particularly in the middle when they’ve settled into Tunnelville and nothing is really moving forward. Most of the action is packed in the last chapters which, again, are extremely compelling and well-plotted. If the entire novel read like those, I would have flown through it and been begging for the next book. A character who plays a major role in the resolution is pretty neglected for most of the book. On one hand, that makes sense in context, but on the other, it pulls a lot of the punch out of the twist, since I didn’t really care what happened to them. I can’t seem to locate even a digital copy of Perfection, so I suppose I’ll wait and see if it gets a revamp like the first two novels to add to my bookshelf. (Both Wakefield and Tunnelville are free on Kindle Unlimited as of 8/22/20.)
I review regularly at brightbeautifulthings.tumblr.com.
My feelings about series tend not to change throughout, and Tunnelville is about on the same level as Wakefield, with similar strengths and weaknesses. I stand by my original opinion that it’s an excellent series for readers looking for more indie/small press or self-published novels or who are tired of the familiar YA tropes and looking for something off the beaten path. The world-building in Mad World is one of the strongest things about it, and I enjoy it every time the novel explores or expands on a character’s powers, from Teddy’s synesthesia to Lawrence’s uncanny ability to know where he is and what direction the danger is coming from. Max’s prophetic dreams are, unfortunately, one of the weakest areas of the supernatural. They’re usually jumbled and silly (as dreams tend to be), and I don’t feel the novel spends enough time unraveling their significance later on.
The characters remain strong, and I like that we get to know some of the escaped patients a bit more, particularly Lawrence. Simon has also come a long way from Max’s bullying roommate to a kid who’s protective of his friends and feels safe enough with them not to lash out. Astrid’s relationship with Colby is a bit rushed and underdeveloped; I never quite managed to see what she sees in him or how she trusts him so easily, but I suppose that’s realistic for a teenage romance. Max’s friendship with Timothy is equally perplexing, and unless he’s due to surface in later books, there’s no clear reason for him to be in this story. Teddy is still kind of a loose cannon, and I can’t seem to pin him down (nor can Astrid, to her frustration). I’m also not fond of some of the descriptions of Timothy’s hearing disability (”Hearing Aid Guy”) or Angie’s referring to Laura as “Quiet Jew,” but those moments are fleeting (and you can take anything Angie says with a grain of salt, at best). I can see the attempt at a more diverse cast, even if it isn’t quite successful.
I found the pacing similar to Wakefield, both good and bad. It’s pretty slow for most of the book, particularly in the middle when they’ve settled into Tunnelville and nothing is really moving forward. Most of the action is packed in the last chapters which, again, are extremely compelling and well-plotted. If the entire novel read like those, I would have flown through it and been begging for the next book. A character who plays a major role in the resolution is pretty neglected for most of the book. On one hand, that makes sense in context, but on the other, it pulls a lot of the punch out of the twist, since I didn’t really care what happened to them. I can’t seem to locate even a digital copy of Perfection, so I suppose I’ll wait and see if it gets a revamp like the first two novels to add to my bookshelf. (Both Wakefield and Tunnelville are free on Kindle Unlimited as of 8/22/20.)
I review regularly at brightbeautifulthings.tumblr.com.
April 28, 2018
Rated 3.5 really.
Excerpt from my review - originally published at Offbeat YA.
Pros: Rather unusual and multifaceted. Characters make for some interesting dynamics. A few surprises on the way.
Cons: Some too convenient or unconvincing occurrences. A few careless decisions. Real action crammed in the end.
Will appeal to: Those who liked Wakefield but craved for more action...and magic.
First off...DISCLAIMER: I received this novel from the authors in exchange for an honest review. Here goes...
Upon closing my Tunnelville PDF after reading the whole book, I suddenly realized that a significant shift had occurred. While Wakefield still retained a lot of traits that could be identified as contemporary (the past lives, interactions and everyday problems of a bunch of kids living in a educational facility), with Tunnelville we step openly into urban-fantasy - or even magic - territory. Though Astrid, Max and the gang are now fighting for survival in a new town - while trying to avoid their pursuers - the real focus is the specialness of some of them and of a few people they meet. We do follow the escapees while struggling and conning and stealing and doing odd jobs, but mostly we are introduced to a world on the fringe of normal, not of society.
The story is again mainly split into alternate chapters by Astrid and Max, with the occasional interlude by Eugene (a detective hired by Astrid's aunt in order to find her) and a prologue and epilogue by Dr. Lycen. Eight of the Wakefield inmates have escaped together - leaving what I suspect was a favourite character of us all behind, because of a decision the kid in question had to make. Now we get to know a Wakefield runaway we only got a glimpse of before - Lawrence, a great addiction to the cast. Also, Colby, a new companion with a whole different background, joins the group on their escape, and we mainly see him through Astrid's eyes, because the two fell for each other - so we aren't sure if the kid in question can be trusted or not. I have to say that the marginality of this love story with regard to the plot was much appreciated, though you'll still be treated to some cute moments if you are into them.
The first chapters follow the eight escapees while they're heading to Boston, living hand to mouth and trying to stay off the radar. Though some relationships are still strong, some of them seem to deteriorate a bit under the stress. Besides the shifting dynamics, there is also some unexpected character development, with particular reference to Astrid, who is apparently coming a bit far from the girl we came to know and love in Wakefield - while Max is even more relatable and sweet. Still, Astrid has taken Ben - the only really sick kid in the gang - under her wing, administrating him medications and trying to keep him safe, which is a point in her favour. [...]
Whole review here
Excerpt from my review - originally published at Offbeat YA.
Pros: Rather unusual and multifaceted. Characters make for some interesting dynamics. A few surprises on the way.
Cons: Some too convenient or unconvincing occurrences. A few careless decisions. Real action crammed in the end.
Will appeal to: Those who liked Wakefield but craved for more action...and magic.
First off...DISCLAIMER: I received this novel from the authors in exchange for an honest review. Here goes...
Upon closing my Tunnelville PDF after reading the whole book, I suddenly realized that a significant shift had occurred. While Wakefield still retained a lot of traits that could be identified as contemporary (the past lives, interactions and everyday problems of a bunch of kids living in a educational facility), with Tunnelville we step openly into urban-fantasy - or even magic - territory. Though Astrid, Max and the gang are now fighting for survival in a new town - while trying to avoid their pursuers - the real focus is the specialness of some of them and of a few people they meet. We do follow the escapees while struggling and conning and stealing and doing odd jobs, but mostly we are introduced to a world on the fringe of normal, not of society.
The story is again mainly split into alternate chapters by Astrid and Max, with the occasional interlude by Eugene (a detective hired by Astrid's aunt in order to find her) and a prologue and epilogue by Dr. Lycen. Eight of the Wakefield inmates have escaped together - leaving what I suspect was a favourite character of us all behind, because of a decision the kid in question had to make. Now we get to know a Wakefield runaway we only got a glimpse of before - Lawrence, a great addiction to the cast. Also, Colby, a new companion with a whole different background, joins the group on their escape, and we mainly see him through Astrid's eyes, because the two fell for each other - so we aren't sure if the kid in question can be trusted or not. I have to say that the marginality of this love story with regard to the plot was much appreciated, though you'll still be treated to some cute moments if you are into them.
The first chapters follow the eight escapees while they're heading to Boston, living hand to mouth and trying to stay off the radar. Though some relationships are still strong, some of them seem to deteriorate a bit under the stress. Besides the shifting dynamics, there is also some unexpected character development, with particular reference to Astrid, who is apparently coming a bit far from the girl we came to know and love in Wakefield - while Max is even more relatable and sweet. Still, Astrid has taken Ben - the only really sick kid in the gang - under her wing, administrating him medications and trying to keep him safe, which is a point in her favour. [...]
Whole review here
July 18, 2013
VThis picks up right where Wakefield leaves off. The story focuses on Max, Astrid, Terry, Lawrence, Laura, Jon/Azrael, and Simon, and Ben. There are additional characters in the story, but these are the same characters we followed in Wakefield. I liked that there was more action in the beginning of the story; unfortunately the action petered out once the kids hit Boston. Then the story fell back into the same pacing as Wakefield. It focused on the everyday activities of the teens, and even though Max was shown “the coming storm” none of the characters really did anything to try and discern what was happening at Wakefield, or who/what was behind the conspiracy of H.G or the medication Cigmadrine. Terry was so certain that the kids with powers were being given Cigmadrine, since they were “special” and he was correct. But after all his paranoia, and the information that they had from the file that Eduardo gave them no one followed up on anything. They were on the run to Boston to fit in with the homeless teens, but once there all the characters just seemed to fall into an everyday routine. Yes, the magical kids found more magical people, while Terry practiced his gifts and Lawrence made charms for the magical teens to warn them of those with evil intentions. Other than that, no one seemed to think of the future or how to help Ally who was left back at Wakefield. Max continued to have his prophetic dreams, but nothing really moved the plot along.
While Astrid vaguely recognized the symbol from the file (which makes me think her family or something from her past is going to make her a more important than she is right now) she didn’t follow up on anything. She was wrapped up in Colby, and her character seemed completely different than portrayed in the first book. Her greatest strength was her ability to question things and see things almost from and adult perspective. Yet in this book she didn’t do anything.
I was shocked that these teens, knowing their lives were in jeopardy, were so casual in their interactions with others. None of them seemed concerned with hiding their true names (granted Teddy at least used an alias to the outsiders he hung out with. You would have thought that Max, Astrid, Teddy, or Lawrence would have had the foresight to question peoples’ motives and at the very least hide their identities and keep quiet about where they were headed, especially since Lawrence believed there was a conspiracy beyond Wakefield. I was saddened to see Laura and Simon’s characters basically disappear in this book. SPOILER ALERT****** I think Ben’s character was there only for his psychotic break. Which was portrayed very realistically, but did nothing to further the plot. *****END SPOILER ALERT. That can basically be said for 85-90% of the book. Most everything here was filler, once again not furthering the story. The ending was again just like Wakefield-it contained the action and a slight hint of what could possibly come in the next story.
Having read both books I still believe that Callahan really does have imagination and strong character development skills. I’m just not sure if she is going to develop the necessary action and solid plotline to create a successful series. I do not mean this with any disrespect, but I’m not sure if she knows exactly where she wants to take the story. There are several snippets of various conspiracies; Dr. Bathory at Wakefield, H.G., now the mention of 1926 Hickory/Perfection Peace Treaty, Hastrman, etc. but nothing is ever fleshed out. To be fair to Callahan, Hickory wasn’t mentioned until the end as was the run-in the Hastrman. However, all the kids knew that Dr. Lycen was chasing them, Cigmadrine factored in somehow, the conspiracy extended beyond Wakefield, and Astrid vaguely recognized the symbol associated with HG. All of those things were known at the beginning of the book and nothing was done in regards to furthering their knowledge about what they were dealing with.
I would like to read the third book just to see if Callahan speeds us the pace of the book & starts to develop the characters into more offensive strategists vs. reactive defensive runaways.
Please keep in mind, these are my opinions, and others may love these books and not have the same issues that I did with things.
While Astrid vaguely recognized the symbol from the file (which makes me think her family or something from her past is going to make her a more important than she is right now) she didn’t follow up on anything. She was wrapped up in Colby, and her character seemed completely different than portrayed in the first book. Her greatest strength was her ability to question things and see things almost from and adult perspective. Yet in this book she didn’t do anything.
I was shocked that these teens, knowing their lives were in jeopardy, were so casual in their interactions with others. None of them seemed concerned with hiding their true names (granted Teddy at least used an alias to the outsiders he hung out with. You would have thought that Max, Astrid, Teddy, or Lawrence would have had the foresight to question peoples’ motives and at the very least hide their identities and keep quiet about where they were headed, especially since Lawrence believed there was a conspiracy beyond Wakefield. I was saddened to see Laura and Simon’s characters basically disappear in this book. SPOILER ALERT****** I think Ben’s character was there only for his psychotic break. Which was portrayed very realistically, but did nothing to further the plot. *****END SPOILER ALERT. That can basically be said for 85-90% of the book. Most everything here was filler, once again not furthering the story. The ending was again just like Wakefield-it contained the action and a slight hint of what could possibly come in the next story.
Having read both books I still believe that Callahan really does have imagination and strong character development skills. I’m just not sure if she is going to develop the necessary action and solid plotline to create a successful series. I do not mean this with any disrespect, but I’m not sure if she knows exactly where she wants to take the story. There are several snippets of various conspiracies; Dr. Bathory at Wakefield, H.G., now the mention of 1926 Hickory/Perfection Peace Treaty, Hastrman, etc. but nothing is ever fleshed out. To be fair to Callahan, Hickory wasn’t mentioned until the end as was the run-in the Hastrman. However, all the kids knew that Dr. Lycen was chasing them, Cigmadrine factored in somehow, the conspiracy extended beyond Wakefield, and Astrid vaguely recognized the symbol associated with HG. All of those things were known at the beginning of the book and nothing was done in regards to furthering their knowledge about what they were dealing with.
I would like to read the third book just to see if Callahan speeds us the pace of the book & starts to develop the characters into more offensive strategists vs. reactive defensive runaways.
Please keep in mind, these are my opinions, and others may love these books and not have the same issues that I did with things.
July 12, 2013
Full review also posted here on TotalTeenFiction
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
Spoiler warning! This is the 2nd book in the Mad World series and so this review will contain spoilers from the previous book, Wakefield.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series so I was delighted to have the opportunity to read the second! Tunnelville follows Max and Astrid as they and their fellow Wakefield patients go on the run and face the trials of life on the streets, whilst trying to escape the clutches of Dr Lycen.
The last book ended on a cliffhanger so I was excited to dive right in and pick up the story! Tunnelville opens with a prologue where we catch up on some of the happenings at Wakefield, then joins Max, Astrid and the others as they seek a place to hide. I loved the opening few chapters where the kids have to rally together and figure out what to do and where to go. There was that real survival, adventure feel about it and I could feel their fear and desperation.
Once again the book is told in alternating chapters between Max and Astrid, and it was great to see their friendship as a real backbone to the story. There was also the odd chapter from some of the adult characters which again was done in the previous book, and was very effective in this one. I particularly liked the chapters told from the view of a private investigator helping to track down Astrid. With the gang being on the run and very isolated from everyone, it was exciting to get an insight into what was happening back at Wakefield and keep an eye on who was chasing them. It definitely added to the suspense! I think the only downside was that I'd sometimes lose track of whose chapter I was reading (Max or Astrid) if I put the book down for a while and came back to it. The two are so similar that they sometimes merged.
There were some interesting new characters introduced in Tunnelville. The guys run into Colby, another runaway who certainly makes an impression. I liked seeing how all the characters bounced off him. I think my favourite new character was Timothy who I was very curious about! Then there were the host of people they met during their time on the streets who help them out. One of the nice things about Tunnelville was despite the fact that the kids were in a pretty sticky situation, they still managed to help each other out and keep the humour amongst themselves.
One thing I was really exited about in this book was exploring the kids' abilities more fully, as well as discovering more about the wider magical world. Getting out into the big wide world means they start to come across people like them and find themselves in situations that put their powers to the test. I really liked that world building and getting to see just what they were capable of. I think the premise of the series is really exciting.
I also really enjoyed the setting of Tunnelville. Wakefield was set in such a confined environment so it was great to break out of that, and I thought the city of Boston make a great backdrop to the story. It's not somewhere I've ever been or know too much about but I could completely visualise everywhere the characters ended up as they travelled around.
I mentioned earlier that Wakefield ended on a cliffhanger and Tunnelville was no different - man these books know how to grab you! The climax to the story was really exciting and left so much potential for future books. I love the urban fantasy vibe and can't wait to discover more of the world, and the characters kept me entertained throughout. A really enjoyable read!
Find more books like this at TotalTeenFiction!
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
Spoiler warning! This is the 2nd book in the Mad World series and so this review will contain spoilers from the previous book, Wakefield.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series so I was delighted to have the opportunity to read the second! Tunnelville follows Max and Astrid as they and their fellow Wakefield patients go on the run and face the trials of life on the streets, whilst trying to escape the clutches of Dr Lycen.
The last book ended on a cliffhanger so I was excited to dive right in and pick up the story! Tunnelville opens with a prologue where we catch up on some of the happenings at Wakefield, then joins Max, Astrid and the others as they seek a place to hide. I loved the opening few chapters where the kids have to rally together and figure out what to do and where to go. There was that real survival, adventure feel about it and I could feel their fear and desperation.
Once again the book is told in alternating chapters between Max and Astrid, and it was great to see their friendship as a real backbone to the story. There was also the odd chapter from some of the adult characters which again was done in the previous book, and was very effective in this one. I particularly liked the chapters told from the view of a private investigator helping to track down Astrid. With the gang being on the run and very isolated from everyone, it was exciting to get an insight into what was happening back at Wakefield and keep an eye on who was chasing them. It definitely added to the suspense! I think the only downside was that I'd sometimes lose track of whose chapter I was reading (Max or Astrid) if I put the book down for a while and came back to it. The two are so similar that they sometimes merged.
There were some interesting new characters introduced in Tunnelville. The guys run into Colby, another runaway who certainly makes an impression. I liked seeing how all the characters bounced off him. I think my favourite new character was Timothy who I was very curious about! Then there were the host of people they met during their time on the streets who help them out. One of the nice things about Tunnelville was despite the fact that the kids were in a pretty sticky situation, they still managed to help each other out and keep the humour amongst themselves.
One thing I was really exited about in this book was exploring the kids' abilities more fully, as well as discovering more about the wider magical world. Getting out into the big wide world means they start to come across people like them and find themselves in situations that put their powers to the test. I really liked that world building and getting to see just what they were capable of. I think the premise of the series is really exciting.
I also really enjoyed the setting of Tunnelville. Wakefield was set in such a confined environment so it was great to break out of that, and I thought the city of Boston make a great backdrop to the story. It's not somewhere I've ever been or know too much about but I could completely visualise everywhere the characters ended up as they travelled around.
I mentioned earlier that Wakefield ended on a cliffhanger and Tunnelville was no different - man these books know how to grab you! The climax to the story was really exciting and left so much potential for future books. I love the urban fantasy vibe and can't wait to discover more of the world, and the characters kept me entertained throughout. A really enjoyable read!
Find more books like this at TotalTeenFiction!
July 25, 2013
Okay, so round 2 of this series: I still hate Astrid. A little less than I did before, but she's still self-absorbed and has no conscience for the crap she pulls, especially with Ben and Azrael. And that crap with Colby. But I'm not in a fiery rage this time, just yelling at her and saying bad words in my head...
I really liked the addition of Lawrence. He's a good one for them all to have around, because he seems to have a good head on his shoulders and is practical enough in most matters. For me, he was a great counterbalance to Astrid, who just pissed me off all the time. Plus his magic is cool!
I loved the battle scenes! They were hectic and visually stunning (in my head) and I can't wait until everyone has developed their powers a bit more, especially Max. I feel like he has a lot of potential that's just waiting to be unlocked. Maybe not in the same way as Teddy, but still. I'm really curious to see who else gets knocked to the wayside, what with Max's premonition and all. I guess I'll have to wait for book three, which I will definitely be doing. I can't wait to see what's going to happen next.
One thing that did bother me though was that they really had no clue what kind of danger they were putting themselves in. They barely tried to mask who they were. They cared more about stupid things that didn't matter (like going out) than they did about their own safety (or, I don't know, TAKING CARE OF THEIR OWN) and that grated on me a bit. Colby in particular didn't seem to realize that his every decision was idiotic and left a clue. I thought Max or Lawrence would be able to get people to be more proactive, but they seemed to do the same exact thing. It was frustrating and I kept wanting them to move off the east coast, since it was clear that that's where they would go...but then I realize Max had his dreams and everything, but even then there wasn't any real rush to figure that out (or any of the other mysteries for that matter). You'd think they'd want to practice more, now that they know they have powers that can be used offensively and defensively.
Also, there were a few minor typos ("thought" instead of "though", etc.) that were barely noticeable, but there all the same
Regardless though, I'm still interested and can't wait to see where the series goes.
I really liked the addition of Lawrence. He's a good one for them all to have around, because he seems to have a good head on his shoulders and is practical enough in most matters. For me, he was a great counterbalance to Astrid, who just pissed me off all the time. Plus his magic is cool!
I loved the battle scenes! They were hectic and visually stunning (in my head) and I can't wait until everyone has developed their powers a bit more, especially Max. I feel like he has a lot of potential that's just waiting to be unlocked. Maybe not in the same way as Teddy, but still. I'm really curious to see who else gets knocked to the wayside, what with Max's premonition and all. I guess I'll have to wait for book three, which I will definitely be doing. I can't wait to see what's going to happen next.
One thing that did bother me though was that they really had no clue what kind of danger they were putting themselves in. They barely tried to mask who they were. They cared more about stupid things that didn't matter (like going out) than they did about their own safety (or, I don't know, TAKING CARE OF THEIR OWN) and that grated on me a bit. Colby in particular didn't seem to realize that his every decision was idiotic and left a clue. I thought Max or Lawrence would be able to get people to be more proactive, but they seemed to do the same exact thing. It was frustrating and I kept wanting them to move off the east coast, since it was clear that that's where they would go...but then I realize Max had his dreams and everything, but even then there wasn't any real rush to figure that out (or any of the other mysteries for that matter). You'd think they'd want to practice more, now that they know they have powers that can be used offensively and defensively.
Also, there were a few minor typos ("thought" instead of "though", etc.) that were barely noticeable, but there all the same
Regardless though, I'm still interested and can't wait to see where the series goes.
March 24, 2014
AWESOME!
I LOVE THIS SERIES! This will probably be my favorite series of the year! It was almost as if they wrote this series just for me. Again the second book got very mixed reviews on Amazon - personally, I just don't get it! What's not to like? Maybe they are taking it too seriously. But, to each their own. That's why there are so many kinds of books.
I loved it! I almost think I liked this one even better than the first one! And that hardly ever happens.
Great storyline, great character development, great descriptions, and lots of great quirky lines. One of the things I loved most about this series. Is the authors got the teenagers spot on. I hate reading a YA book where the teens talk like adults. I read it thinking "A teenager would never say that." In this book the teens are perfect, they actually talk and think and act like teens. Now that's what I would expect. I loved all of the teen banter back and forth, it was perfect, it was like I was eavesdropping. It made me wonder if the Authors themselves have a passel of teens or if they just sit and observe.
Sure, I wasn't in love with ALL the characters, but that very rarely happens in any book. I did have my favorites tho! But even if I didn't like them they were all still fun and very believable. And in the end, when all paranormal hell broke loose - I had no trouble at all picturing it! Job well done!
Also there was a nice touch of magic/paranormal that did not overtake the story. I thought it was a good blend.
Here's a few lines I liked -
"They want all of us to steal from some college kids," Ben said.
"Not steal, I said slowly.
"Then what? Astrid asked.
"Okay, steal. I think we should steal from college kids."
"More woods? Azreal asked.
"What Vampires don't like trees? Simon asked.
"Right, dumb-ass, wooden stakes," Lawrence chimed in.
"I'm a Gothic city Vampire, not a rural one. Completely different breed."- LOL loved that one!
"Uh, how about we're tired and hungry and homeless? We rob laundromats, some of us are kind of crazy, there's a nameless conspiracy out to get us, and some of us might have powers we know absolutely nothing about. there's probably more, but my stomach hurts too much to think." - that's pretty much it in a nut shell
I have already been promised book 3 (which I can't wait for!) in June (entirely not soon enough). Sooo check back for that review.
If you want a fun paranormal series to read this year - this is the one to pick!
I LOVE THIS SERIES! This will probably be my favorite series of the year! It was almost as if they wrote this series just for me. Again the second book got very mixed reviews on Amazon - personally, I just don't get it! What's not to like? Maybe they are taking it too seriously. But, to each their own. That's why there are so many kinds of books.
I loved it! I almost think I liked this one even better than the first one! And that hardly ever happens.
Great storyline, great character development, great descriptions, and lots of great quirky lines. One of the things I loved most about this series. Is the authors got the teenagers spot on. I hate reading a YA book where the teens talk like adults. I read it thinking "A teenager would never say that." In this book the teens are perfect, they actually talk and think and act like teens. Now that's what I would expect. I loved all of the teen banter back and forth, it was perfect, it was like I was eavesdropping. It made me wonder if the Authors themselves have a passel of teens or if they just sit and observe.
Sure, I wasn't in love with ALL the characters, but that very rarely happens in any book. I did have my favorites tho! But even if I didn't like them they were all still fun and very believable. And in the end, when all paranormal hell broke loose - I had no trouble at all picturing it! Job well done!
Also there was a nice touch of magic/paranormal that did not overtake the story. I thought it was a good blend.
Here's a few lines I liked -
"They want all of us to steal from some college kids," Ben said.
"Not steal, I said slowly.
"Then what? Astrid asked.
"Okay, steal. I think we should steal from college kids."
"More woods? Azreal asked.
"What Vampires don't like trees? Simon asked.
"Right, dumb-ass, wooden stakes," Lawrence chimed in.
"I'm a Gothic city Vampire, not a rural one. Completely different breed."- LOL loved that one!
"Uh, how about we're tired and hungry and homeless? We rob laundromats, some of us are kind of crazy, there's a nameless conspiracy out to get us, and some of us might have powers we know absolutely nothing about. there's probably more, but my stomach hurts too much to think." - that's pretty much it in a nut shell
I have already been promised book 3 (which I can't wait for!) in June (entirely not soon enough). Sooo check back for that review.
If you want a fun paranormal series to read this year - this is the one to pick!
September 29, 2013
I like that this book started right where Wakefield left off. This book was all about the teens getting away from Wakefield and trying to stay hidden from Dr. Lycen.
They started their journey together, as well as Lawrence, who joined them once they got away from Wakefield. Lawrence was a great addition to the cast. He was very helpful to the group and without him I don't think they would have made it very far.
They decided Boston would be a good place to hideout and make home for awhile. Once they set off on their journey, they did have a little trouble getting there, but made it in one piece. They had to find ways to eat, get money, get clothes all while trying to get through their withdrawals from the medications. While staying at what they thought to be an abandoned cabin, they met Colby. He was a runaway from Canada, who decided he wanted to join the group on their adventure.
Once they got to Boston, all 9 of them, met a few people that helped them out right away. They found a home in an underground tunnel that was home to a few others. The 4 that learned they had powers began to use them and learn what they could do. They received help from another person with powers named Angie. She taught them a lot about powers and what each of them could do.
Most of the story isn't very action packed, its just the day to day of being homeless in a big city. Towards the end of the book is when the action starts and peoples true colors come through.
I can't wait for the third book. Mostly because I'm interested to see who the fox is!
They started their journey together, as well as Lawrence, who joined them once they got away from Wakefield. Lawrence was a great addition to the cast. He was very helpful to the group and without him I don't think they would have made it very far.
They decided Boston would be a good place to hideout and make home for awhile. Once they set off on their journey, they did have a little trouble getting there, but made it in one piece. They had to find ways to eat, get money, get clothes all while trying to get through their withdrawals from the medications. While staying at what they thought to be an abandoned cabin, they met Colby. He was a runaway from Canada, who decided he wanted to join the group on their adventure.
Once they got to Boston, all 9 of them, met a few people that helped them out right away. They found a home in an underground tunnel that was home to a few others. The 4 that learned they had powers began to use them and learn what they could do. They received help from another person with powers named Angie. She taught them a lot about powers and what each of them could do.
Most of the story isn't very action packed, its just the day to day of being homeless in a big city. Towards the end of the book is when the action starts and peoples true colors come through.
I can't wait for the third book. Mostly because I'm interested to see who the fox is!
March 21, 2014
So, first I'd like to thank they author Erin Callahan for letting me read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
With that out of the way, now let's get on to my thoughts:
As many have stated, the books starts right off where the last one left. The teens are on the run from Wakefield and trying to figure out how to survive on their own while making their way to Boston. Upon getting to Boston, and on their way there, they meet new character to whom which they don't know of they can trust or not. All the while still have Dr. Lycen on their heels and more unknown threats from not-so-obvious places.
I enjoyed reading this book, as I did the first. I still love all the characters (although Astrid still gets on my nerves and how she treats Azrael and just about anyone else she doesn't agree with or see eye to eye on).
I found it funny reading the authors impressions of Boston and the surrounding areas, as well, I'm from Cambridge. I can assure you, there are more "rich" people in Boston then their are in Cambridge, but enough about that. Ha!. Oh, and who still says "Po Po" when describing the police? Not sure I've hear that slang term in ages from anyone.
But with that being said, this was a good second installment and am very much looking forward to reading the next. If you've read the first, I would truly recommend reading the second. And if you haven't read the first, then I recommend reading both!
With that out of the way, now let's get on to my thoughts:
As many have stated, the books starts right off where the last one left. The teens are on the run from Wakefield and trying to figure out how to survive on their own while making their way to Boston. Upon getting to Boston, and on their way there, they meet new character to whom which they don't know of they can trust or not. All the while still have Dr. Lycen on their heels and more unknown threats from not-so-obvious places.
I enjoyed reading this book, as I did the first. I still love all the characters (although Astrid still gets on my nerves and how she treats Azrael and just about anyone else she doesn't agree with or see eye to eye on).
I found it funny reading the authors impressions of Boston and the surrounding areas, as well, I'm from Cambridge. I can assure you, there are more "rich" people in Boston then their are in Cambridge, but enough about that. Ha!. Oh, and who still says "Po Po" when describing the police? Not sure I've hear that slang term in ages from anyone.
But with that being said, this was a good second installment and am very much looking forward to reading the next. If you've read the first, I would truly recommend reading the second. And if you haven't read the first, then I recommend reading both!
August 24, 2014
*I received this book for review from one of the authors, but this in no way affects my thoughts expressed in this review.*
Before I start talking about how awesome this book was, I feel it fair to say that this is the second book in the series. Though I will not give spoilers of this book, there is a chance if you haven't read the first book I might provide spoilers of it. Just thought I'd let y'all know.
Picking up where Wakefield left off, Astrid and the rest of the Wakefield crew are on the run and dealing with the fallout from escaping. They soon find out, though, that Dr. Lycen might not be their only threat.
I was so excited to read this book after having read the first! Something about this series just pulls me right in, and I can't recommend it enough. It's not a type of story you read every day but it's one that I just couldn't put down. All I can say is I can't wait for book 3! If you read and loved Wakefield as much as I did, I recommend you grab a copy of Tunnelville now and dive back into the story! As for me, I'm going to go start in on reading Perfection, book 3 in the series. I'm guessing after y'all finish Tunnelville you'll be ready for it too!
Before I start talking about how awesome this book was, I feel it fair to say that this is the second book in the series. Though I will not give spoilers of this book, there is a chance if you haven't read the first book I might provide spoilers of it. Just thought I'd let y'all know.
Picking up where Wakefield left off, Astrid and the rest of the Wakefield crew are on the run and dealing with the fallout from escaping. They soon find out, though, that Dr. Lycen might not be their only threat.
I was so excited to read this book after having read the first! Something about this series just pulls me right in, and I can't recommend it enough. It's not a type of story you read every day but it's one that I just couldn't put down. All I can say is I can't wait for book 3! If you read and loved Wakefield as much as I did, I recommend you grab a copy of Tunnelville now and dive back into the story! As for me, I'm going to go start in on reading Perfection, book 3 in the series. I'm guessing after y'all finish Tunnelville you'll be ready for it too!
August 13, 2013
Tunnelville was great! It picks up right where Wakefield left off. More paranormal stuff than in Wakefield. Loved the way it ended and can't wait for the next one in this series!
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