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Forget Me Not #1
Of Dreams and Shadow
We live. We die. Is there anything more? Jenna Barton is about to find out. After moving to the coastal North Carolina town of Parson's Cove, Jenna has unwittingly stepped into the middle of a mystery involving a missing child. Unfortunately, the predator is still on the loose and Jenna has become his new obsession. With a little luck and a bit of paranormal help, Jenna might survive.
286 pages, Paperback
First published September 23, 2013
4 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
D.S. McKnight
2 books19 followersWhen I was a little girl, I was afraid of my shadow. Seriously afraid - running and screaming afraid. Perhaps I've always been a victim of an over-active imagination and maybe that explains the monsters hiding under my bed, the ghosts lurking in my closet, and the Shadow that inspired my first novel. I'm D.S McKnight. I'm married, have three sons and make my home in coastal North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 27, 2014
This ghost story for young adults begins with a gruesome scene when a young girl discovers a shadow in her back yard and disappears to the horror of Chase, a neighborhood kid who is helpless to do anything but report his nightmares. The tragic abduction is never solved.
The story jumps forward twelve years to that time when Chase, now a junior in high school, encounters new neighbors, 16-year-old Jenna and her mom. The plot thickens as Jenna plunges into a new high school, makes friends, and discovers unexpected strengths in this small community and herself.
I don’t often read YA, but the writer did a very good job of presenting the story with emotional intensity, believable characters, and a sense of local history as Chase and Jenna come to know each other better. The characters reveal their feelings very effectively through their actions and inner dialogue. Jenna’s frustration about moving to a small town comes through clearly, as does her ability to trust others.
Because the writer brings us inside the characters, we experience their insecurities, their inner doubts and their growth. The sometimes prickly relationship between teens and parents is explored realistically. The writer also tackles the very difficult issue of bullying, whether by a threatened popular beauty (nicknamed the ‘queen of darkness’), or the very sinister Shadow in the back yard that won’t go away.
Of Dreams and Shadow Well worth a read!
The story jumps forward twelve years to that time when Chase, now a junior in high school, encounters new neighbors, 16-year-old Jenna and her mom. The plot thickens as Jenna plunges into a new high school, makes friends, and discovers unexpected strengths in this small community and herself.
I don’t often read YA, but the writer did a very good job of presenting the story with emotional intensity, believable characters, and a sense of local history as Chase and Jenna come to know each other better. The characters reveal their feelings very effectively through their actions and inner dialogue. Jenna’s frustration about moving to a small town comes through clearly, as does her ability to trust others.
Because the writer brings us inside the characters, we experience their insecurities, their inner doubts and their growth. The sometimes prickly relationship between teens and parents is explored realistically. The writer also tackles the very difficult issue of bullying, whether by a threatened popular beauty (nicknamed the ‘queen of darkness’), or the very sinister Shadow in the back yard that won’t go away.
Of Dreams and Shadow Well worth a read!
October 21, 2013
I belong to a number of book groups, writing groups and reading groups. In one of those groups, I was asked to read this book and write a review for the author. I agreed, because I love to read and write, but I made it clear that my review would be my honest opinion, they agreed and and I read Of Dreams and Shadow on my Kindle.
You might call it a Young Adult novel, since the main characters are teenagers in High School. I really didn't think of it that way, I barely remembered at times they were in High School because of the story. Even if you think you don't like anything labeled as Young Adult, give this a try, it's really not what you would think of as Young Adult, a little more mature.
The story starts with the disappearance of a bright little four year old girl named Sarah, that is witnessed by the next door neighbor boy, Chase also four, but no one can believe what he tells them. It's a mystery. Fast forward twelve years and a new family moves in next door to a teenage Chase, and they have a teenage daughter his age.
As Jenna adjusts to moving from the big city of Charlotte to the small town of Parson's Cove, in the middle of the school year no less, she makes friends and enemies. She thinks the boy next door, Chase is an enemy, but there is more beneath what he is thinking, every time he sees her he is reminded of Sarah.
The story plays out as Jenna and Chase learn to be friends, and learn more about the truth of what really happened to Sarah. It was just as Chase saw it happen, it is just that it doesn't make sense then, now at the older ages, and learning the things they do, it makes more sense.
I really enjoyed the book, it only took me two days to read, and that is only because I had to put it down and stop reading for awhile to take care of the family, or I would have read it straight through! I liked it! Young adult, ok they are teens, but it wasn't the annoying coming of age that a number of young adults have been recently. Paranormal, in a way but not as much as you would think. It's more about the idea that there is more than just life or death, but something in between.
I found it to be well written, to captivate my senses and draw me in. Yes, there were a few times when I wanted to smack Jenna in the head and say "Girl, are you dense?" but only a few, and then I had to remember she is suppose to be a junior in high school, so maybe I should cut her some slack.
This book stands on it's own, but from the ending, I can see where there is an opening to carry on with the books ideas and move into another story. I liked that it stood alone, that I didn't feel I needed another book to finish the story. It ends on a good enough note that you feel the closure of the story and you can move on, it's not a cliffhanger. I am so tried of reading books that end leaving you guessing and you have to read another just to get closure.
Overall, I gave this a high rating, and I normally don't do 5 stars, but it deserves them. It was just a good book that anyone can enjoy, not just young adults, trust me I have teens at home, so I am no spring chicken and I loved it!
You might call it a Young Adult novel, since the main characters are teenagers in High School. I really didn't think of it that way, I barely remembered at times they were in High School because of the story. Even if you think you don't like anything labeled as Young Adult, give this a try, it's really not what you would think of as Young Adult, a little more mature.
The story starts with the disappearance of a bright little four year old girl named Sarah, that is witnessed by the next door neighbor boy, Chase also four, but no one can believe what he tells them. It's a mystery. Fast forward twelve years and a new family moves in next door to a teenage Chase, and they have a teenage daughter his age.
As Jenna adjusts to moving from the big city of Charlotte to the small town of Parson's Cove, in the middle of the school year no less, she makes friends and enemies. She thinks the boy next door, Chase is an enemy, but there is more beneath what he is thinking, every time he sees her he is reminded of Sarah.
The story plays out as Jenna and Chase learn to be friends, and learn more about the truth of what really happened to Sarah. It was just as Chase saw it happen, it is just that it doesn't make sense then, now at the older ages, and learning the things they do, it makes more sense.
I really enjoyed the book, it only took me two days to read, and that is only because I had to put it down and stop reading for awhile to take care of the family, or I would have read it straight through! I liked it! Young adult, ok they are teens, but it wasn't the annoying coming of age that a number of young adults have been recently. Paranormal, in a way but not as much as you would think. It's more about the idea that there is more than just life or death, but something in between.
I found it to be well written, to captivate my senses and draw me in. Yes, there were a few times when I wanted to smack Jenna in the head and say "Girl, are you dense?" but only a few, and then I had to remember she is suppose to be a junior in high school, so maybe I should cut her some slack.
This book stands on it's own, but from the ending, I can see where there is an opening to carry on with the books ideas and move into another story. I liked that it stood alone, that I didn't feel I needed another book to finish the story. It ends on a good enough note that you feel the closure of the story and you can move on, it's not a cliffhanger. I am so tried of reading books that end leaving you guessing and you have to read another just to get closure.
Overall, I gave this a high rating, and I normally don't do 5 stars, but it deserves them. It was just a good book that anyone can enjoy, not just young adults, trust me I have teens at home, so I am no spring chicken and I loved it!
March 30, 2014
***I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.***
'Of Dreams and Shadow' follows the story of Jenna Barton as she moves to a new town, tries to get settled there and make new friends, all the while battling for her life as a shadow tries to make her his own.
I liked this book. Its a 4.5 stars for me. I took that 0.5 star for the style of writing.I, personally, am not a big fan of third person of POV. I read the Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clare, and they were kind of meh for me. Just because of the third person POV. I love any type of book which is written in first person POV. Yet, I really liked this book.
Originally, when I saw that this book was there for a read for review program, I wasn't too excited about it. But, when I saw all the great review about this book, I decided to give it a go. And I am really glad that I did. Really glad.
Jenna is an awesome characters. She comes from Charlotte to a small town named Parson's Cove, and lives in the house where a little girl named Sarah, was captured by a shadow, and the shadow is still there. It now wants to take Jenna(take Jenna/ kill Jenna/ prison Jenna? I'm not exactly sure.)
The plot is freaking awesome and original. I never thought that I would find a book about body stealing shadows. Just like I told before, my only problem was with the writing. And the story was also paced quite slow in many places. That was annoying. But, these things aside, I really liked it.
Chase and Jenna are also an awesome couple. At first, I was a little miffed because of their insta-love, but I rolled around with it eventually. Also, I noticed quite a few similarities with Twilight. Girl moves from a big town to a small town. She feels like she wouldn't be able to adjust, but later on the town feels like home. The boy is off limits to everyone, but only she manages to break his barrier and date him. The boy has(knows, in this case) a terrible secret which the girl eventually realizes. But, it is not like a rip-off of Twilight, there are just some small similarities.
I loved all the characters. They were all well developed and played their part well. They weren't shallow and their stories are also nice. I kind of liked Silas the best of them all. He was a total bad-ass villain, yet we can totally sympathize with him. He had lived a very cruel life which forced him to become like this.
Overall, I thought this was a great book. Definitely recommended:D
'Of Dreams and Shadow' follows the story of Jenna Barton as she moves to a new town, tries to get settled there and make new friends, all the while battling for her life as a shadow tries to make her his own.
I liked this book. Its a 4.5 stars for me. I took that 0.5 star for the style of writing.I, personally, am not a big fan of third person of POV. I read the Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clare, and they were kind of meh for me. Just because of the third person POV. I love any type of book which is written in first person POV. Yet, I really liked this book.
Originally, when I saw that this book was there for a read for review program, I wasn't too excited about it. But, when I saw all the great review about this book, I decided to give it a go. And I am really glad that I did. Really glad.
Jenna is an awesome characters. She comes from Charlotte to a small town named Parson's Cove, and lives in the house where a little girl named Sarah, was captured by a shadow, and the shadow is still there. It now wants to take Jenna(take Jenna/ kill Jenna/ prison Jenna? I'm not exactly sure.)
The plot is freaking awesome and original. I never thought that I would find a book about body stealing shadows. Just like I told before, my only problem was with the writing. And the story was also paced quite slow in many places. That was annoying. But, these things aside, I really liked it.
Chase and Jenna are also an awesome couple. At first, I was a little miffed because of their insta-love, but I rolled around with it eventually. Also, I noticed quite a few similarities with Twilight. Girl moves from a big town to a small town. She feels like she wouldn't be able to adjust, but later on the town feels like home. The boy is off limits to everyone, but only she manages to break his barrier and date him. The boy has(knows, in this case) a terrible secret which the girl eventually realizes. But, it is not like a rip-off of Twilight, there are just some small similarities.
I loved all the characters. They were all well developed and played their part well. They weren't shallow and their stories are also nice. I kind of liked Silas the best of them all. He was a total bad-ass villain, yet we can totally sympathize with him. He had lived a very cruel life which forced him to become like this.
Overall, I thought this was a great book. Definitely recommended:D
November 21, 2013
***I received this by a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
4 ½ Stars
Of Dreams and Shadows was AWESOME!!! I was looking for something different to read, and I found it in this book. It is a young adult paranormal with some romance. It reminded me of quite a few different things…The Lovely Bones, bits of Stephen King, and Nightmare on Elm Street. You may be wondering how all those different things could work in a book, but it does, BIG TIME!
Jenna has moved with her mother to the small town of Parson’s Cove in North Carolina. She isn’t too happy moving her junior year in high school and leaving her friends behind in Charlotte. But, it isn’t long after she moves that she meets a great group of friends with the exception of Chase. He does everything he can to make it known that he isn’t a big fan of Jenna’s. But, he really likes Jenna A LOT! He just doesn’t know what to do about his attraction because she reminds him of his next door neighbor, Sarah, who disappeared years ago when they were small children. He witnessed the whole thing. It wasn’t some stranger but a dark, malevolent shadow that appeared from a rock in her backyard which coincidentally is the house that Jenna and her mother now live in. It isn’t long before Jenna feels the dark presence when she goes outside and feels as if someone is watching her. Can she and Chase put aside their mistrust of each other long enough to stop the dark shadow once and for all? Will they give into their hidden feelings and take their relationship to the next level?
I loved the descriptive way the author wrote about the town. You can see the arcade, the pizza shop, and the flower shop. You can see the river in the distance. The book is also about family and love, and especially about a mother’s love for her child. The ending of the book will bring tears to your eyes. I loved Sarah, the sweet, innocent child that was taken at the beginning of the book. I came away even feeling sympathy for the dark shadow, Silas. The author gives you a great trip to the past to allow you to see what makes Silas tick. This synopsis doesn’t even touch all that occurs in this book. I don’t want to spoil it for you. Do yourself a favor, pick up the book and spend some time in Parson’s Cove. As an added bonus, it looks like there will be a sequel!!! Cannot wait!!!!
4 ½ Stars
Of Dreams and Shadows was AWESOME!!! I was looking for something different to read, and I found it in this book. It is a young adult paranormal with some romance. It reminded me of quite a few different things…The Lovely Bones, bits of Stephen King, and Nightmare on Elm Street. You may be wondering how all those different things could work in a book, but it does, BIG TIME!
Jenna has moved with her mother to the small town of Parson’s Cove in North Carolina. She isn’t too happy moving her junior year in high school and leaving her friends behind in Charlotte. But, it isn’t long after she moves that she meets a great group of friends with the exception of Chase. He does everything he can to make it known that he isn’t a big fan of Jenna’s. But, he really likes Jenna A LOT! He just doesn’t know what to do about his attraction because she reminds him of his next door neighbor, Sarah, who disappeared years ago when they were small children. He witnessed the whole thing. It wasn’t some stranger but a dark, malevolent shadow that appeared from a rock in her backyard which coincidentally is the house that Jenna and her mother now live in. It isn’t long before Jenna feels the dark presence when she goes outside and feels as if someone is watching her. Can she and Chase put aside their mistrust of each other long enough to stop the dark shadow once and for all? Will they give into their hidden feelings and take their relationship to the next level?
I loved the descriptive way the author wrote about the town. You can see the arcade, the pizza shop, and the flower shop. You can see the river in the distance. The book is also about family and love, and especially about a mother’s love for her child. The ending of the book will bring tears to your eyes. I loved Sarah, the sweet, innocent child that was taken at the beginning of the book. I came away even feeling sympathy for the dark shadow, Silas. The author gives you a great trip to the past to allow you to see what makes Silas tick. This synopsis doesn’t even touch all that occurs in this book. I don’t want to spoil it for you. Do yourself a favor, pick up the book and spend some time in Parson’s Cove. As an added bonus, it looks like there will be a sequel!!! Cannot wait!!!!
January 27, 2014
Have you ever had the feeling like someone is watching you? In author D.S. McKnight's debut novel, Of Dreams And Shadow: Forget Me Not, the reader is drawn into an intriguing and sinister tale that will keep them sitting on the edge of their seat.
Set in the small North Carolina coastal town of Parson's Cove, the story begins with the disappearance of four year old Sarah from her backyard. Sarah's disappearance is witnessed by Chase Williams, her four year old neighbor, but no one believes his story that a sinister shadow took the little girl. Fast forward twelve years later, sixteen year old Jenna Barton's family moved from Charlotte to Parson's Cove, unknowingly into the house that Sarah disappeared from. It isn't long before Jenna begins to feel like someone is watching her from the shadows of her backyard ... is a long dormant predator ready to strike again?
In Of Dreams And Shadow: Forget Me Not, author M.S. McKnight creates a suspenseful mystery that cleverly interweaves a haunting serial killer's evil past with the present time involving a young teenage girl. You can't help but get drawn into this dark story as the characters and small town of Parson's Cove comes alive as you delve into the long dormant mystery of Sarah's disappearance, and the present day danger that surrounds Jenna and Chase that once again threatens to disrupt this peaceful coastal North Carolina town.
With richly detailed descriptions and suspenseful twists and turns, this riveting story grabs the reader's attention and holds them captive, the creepiness and scare factor will leave you holding your breath and giving you goosebumps as you turn the pages. The story unfolds in a seamless fashion as the author interweaves the past with the present. In addition to the gripping mystery with a paranormal twist, the author adds classic teenage romance and drama into the mix, but it doesn't overshadow the overall premise of the story.
Of Dreams And Shadow: Forget Me Not is a compelling and gripping YA paranormal tale that takes the reader on one heck a thrill ride.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Set in the small North Carolina coastal town of Parson's Cove, the story begins with the disappearance of four year old Sarah from her backyard. Sarah's disappearance is witnessed by Chase Williams, her four year old neighbor, but no one believes his story that a sinister shadow took the little girl. Fast forward twelve years later, sixteen year old Jenna Barton's family moved from Charlotte to Parson's Cove, unknowingly into the house that Sarah disappeared from. It isn't long before Jenna begins to feel like someone is watching her from the shadows of her backyard ... is a long dormant predator ready to strike again?
In Of Dreams And Shadow: Forget Me Not, author M.S. McKnight creates a suspenseful mystery that cleverly interweaves a haunting serial killer's evil past with the present time involving a young teenage girl. You can't help but get drawn into this dark story as the characters and small town of Parson's Cove comes alive as you delve into the long dormant mystery of Sarah's disappearance, and the present day danger that surrounds Jenna and Chase that once again threatens to disrupt this peaceful coastal North Carolina town.
With richly detailed descriptions and suspenseful twists and turns, this riveting story grabs the reader's attention and holds them captive, the creepiness and scare factor will leave you holding your breath and giving you goosebumps as you turn the pages. The story unfolds in a seamless fashion as the author interweaves the past with the present. In addition to the gripping mystery with a paranormal twist, the author adds classic teenage romance and drama into the mix, but it doesn't overshadow the overall premise of the story.
Of Dreams And Shadow: Forget Me Not is a compelling and gripping YA paranormal tale that takes the reader on one heck a thrill ride.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
March 30, 2014
Firstly id like to thank D.S. McKnight for giving me this book in exchange for a honest review
Of Dreams and Shadow starts off by giving us a glimpse into the disappearance of a young 4 year old girl named Sarah from her backyard and the only witness being a 4 year old chase her neighbour who was peeking over the fence at the time.
Now fast forward 12 years to when a 16 year girl Jenna and her mum moves into that same house. At first like all the previous tenants they write off the sensation of being watched as a figment of their imagination but when Jenna starts having recurring nightmares and finds a hidden diary of someone who warns of an evil presence perhaps not all is as it seems.
With the help of Chase whom when Jenna first moved to the quiet town of Parsons Cove, seemed as though he hated her for unknown reasons but eventually becomes more than just another member of the group of friends she has, they uncover a centuries old twisted horror that chills everyone (including readers) to the bone.
Admittedly this book was not what I was expecting when I signed up to R2R, I thought the story would go in a completely different angle but I'm happy to say I thoroughly enjoyed it! Infact I loved it and once I started it was hard to put down because of the mystery and series of events that unfolded had me hooked and the ending... WOW I loved that little surprise that made me gasp and say oh no!
I just have to mention briefly that even though I hated his actions and everything he did I felt sorry for Silas, not in the beginning because I thought him an evil man who needed to get what was coming to him but throughout the story when his past including the things and people who wronged him and made him into the sadistic man he became, I felt bad and hated those people more so. I think he just wanted to be loved and in some twisted way he thought his beloved Mary and those that reminded him of her were meant to be just for him and when they in his eyes wronged him, he punished them.
Even though he didn't show any sign of remorse for any of the things he did, he did however in his way grieve what happened to Mary and in hurting the person he held responsible for tricking him he thought to rid himself of the hurt he felt at what he did. Because in his own head he could only depend on hate and anger to deal with an emotion he didn't understand.
Of Dreams and Shadow starts off by giving us a glimpse into the disappearance of a young 4 year old girl named Sarah from her backyard and the only witness being a 4 year old chase her neighbour who was peeking over the fence at the time.
Now fast forward 12 years to when a 16 year girl Jenna and her mum moves into that same house. At first like all the previous tenants they write off the sensation of being watched as a figment of their imagination but when Jenna starts having recurring nightmares and finds a hidden diary of someone who warns of an evil presence perhaps not all is as it seems.
With the help of Chase whom when Jenna first moved to the quiet town of Parsons Cove, seemed as though he hated her for unknown reasons but eventually becomes more than just another member of the group of friends she has, they uncover a centuries old twisted horror that chills everyone (including readers) to the bone.
Admittedly this book was not what I was expecting when I signed up to R2R, I thought the story would go in a completely different angle but I'm happy to say I thoroughly enjoyed it! Infact I loved it and once I started it was hard to put down because of the mystery and series of events that unfolded had me hooked and the ending... WOW I loved that little surprise that made me gasp and say oh no!
I just have to mention briefly that even though I hated his actions and everything he did I felt sorry for Silas, not in the beginning because I thought him an evil man who needed to get what was coming to him but throughout the story when his past including the things and people who wronged him and made him into the sadistic man he became, I felt bad and hated those people more so. I think he just wanted to be loved and in some twisted way he thought his beloved Mary and those that reminded him of her were meant to be just for him and when they in his eyes wronged him, he punished them.
Even though he didn't show any sign of remorse for any of the things he did, he did however in his way grieve what happened to Mary and in hurting the person he held responsible for tricking him he thought to rid himself of the hurt he felt at what he did. Because in his own head he could only depend on hate and anger to deal with an emotion he didn't understand.
November 19, 2013
This book has me hoping that I don't dream tonight. It has been a while since I have read a creepy mystery like this one. I really enjoyed the mystery and story. Of Dreams and Shadows is the story of a serial killer that doesn't even stop killing after he has been killed. It alternates between the past and the present. The mystery to be solved takes place in the present but we also get to flash back in time to learn about the backstory of Silas- the killer.
Jenna is the new girl in a small town so there was a novelty with her for all of the people in the town. She caused a big stir in the school with both the guys and the girls. I liked that she made a good group of friends quickly, and it was refreshing to see that there was really only one "mean girl" at the school, and everyone saw what kind of person she was. It took away the power that she had. I really liked Jenna with Chase, but we had to wait a while for him to come around to her. The romance was certainly not rushed, it was refreshing.
The mystery of Sarah's death and of who Silas was was really interesting, and really picked up in the second half of the book. I liked it that way. The first half of the book was more about character building. And this way we really got to know who all the people were. There were glimpses into what the mystery was but we really got into the meat of it in the second half of the book. I thought the plot was organized really well that way. I was impressed with this debut novel from D.S. McKnight. The mystery was not exactly straightforward. There were mini twists and turns sprinkled throughout just to keep you guessing. A couple of times I was questioning Sarah and Silas' motives, and there were points that I didn't even know who to trust anymore. This book says it is the first in a series and I was really excited to see that. I want to read more about Jenna and Chase now that they have finally found each other. But the book seemed to end, so I am curious to see where the next book is going to go. Fans of mystery will love Of Dreams and Shadows.
Jenna is the new girl in a small town so there was a novelty with her for all of the people in the town. She caused a big stir in the school with both the guys and the girls. I liked that she made a good group of friends quickly, and it was refreshing to see that there was really only one "mean girl" at the school, and everyone saw what kind of person she was. It took away the power that she had. I really liked Jenna with Chase, but we had to wait a while for him to come around to her. The romance was certainly not rushed, it was refreshing.
The mystery of Sarah's death and of who Silas was was really interesting, and really picked up in the second half of the book. I liked it that way. The first half of the book was more about character building. And this way we really got to know who all the people were. There were glimpses into what the mystery was but we really got into the meat of it in the second half of the book. I thought the plot was organized really well that way. I was impressed with this debut novel from D.S. McKnight. The mystery was not exactly straightforward. There were mini twists and turns sprinkled throughout just to keep you guessing. A couple of times I was questioning Sarah and Silas' motives, and there were points that I didn't even know who to trust anymore. This book says it is the first in a series and I was really excited to see that. I want to read more about Jenna and Chase now that they have finally found each other. But the book seemed to end, so I am curious to see where the next book is going to go. Fans of mystery will love Of Dreams and Shadows.
November 21, 2013
Of Dreams and Shadow is a Young Adult Paranormal novel but you'll find no vampires or werewolves between the pages. No, D.S. McKnight's picture-book town of Parson's Cove is haunted by something else entirely; something as dark as shadow.
When sixteen year old Jenna Barton moves into 203 Sandpiper, a little house with a secret, she doesn't just attract the attention of the boy next door. Jenna can't understand why Chase Williams has taken an obvious dislike to her. They're the same age, attend the same school and socialise with the same circle of friends but every time she sets foot in the back garden Chase's attitude sends her back inside.
Chase remembers. He remembers the little girl with brown hair, Sarah, who lived next door. He remembers the shadow, rising up and enveloping the little girl by the rock in her back garden. He remembers that no one believed his story.
Jenna reminds Chase of Sarah, of what Sarah may have looked like if she'd lived to sixteen; and the shadow feels the same. Silas has lain dormant, waiting and watching, and now Jenna has his full attention.
The title of this book is amazing, completely relevant to the story inside. D. S. McKnight has created an idyllic coastal town, interesting and developed characters and a super-nasty bad guy we could all fear. Silas is evil with a completely warped sense of reality and justice. His vengeful killing spree is the stuff of nightmares.
I found the writing style smooth and easy. The language was appropriate and varied between characters. What I loved most about the book was the trips into the past; the change of points of view. It was really interesting to see how Silas became what he ended up as... a serial killer.
This book would be great for readers interested in mild horror and paranormal novels.
When sixteen year old Jenna Barton moves into 203 Sandpiper, a little house with a secret, she doesn't just attract the attention of the boy next door. Jenna can't understand why Chase Williams has taken an obvious dislike to her. They're the same age, attend the same school and socialise with the same circle of friends but every time she sets foot in the back garden Chase's attitude sends her back inside.
Chase remembers. He remembers the little girl with brown hair, Sarah, who lived next door. He remembers the shadow, rising up and enveloping the little girl by the rock in her back garden. He remembers that no one believed his story.
Jenna reminds Chase of Sarah, of what Sarah may have looked like if she'd lived to sixteen; and the shadow feels the same. Silas has lain dormant, waiting and watching, and now Jenna has his full attention.
The title of this book is amazing, completely relevant to the story inside. D. S. McKnight has created an idyllic coastal town, interesting and developed characters and a super-nasty bad guy we could all fear. Silas is evil with a completely warped sense of reality and justice. His vengeful killing spree is the stuff of nightmares.
I found the writing style smooth and easy. The language was appropriate and varied between characters. What I loved most about the book was the trips into the past; the change of points of view. It was really interesting to see how Silas became what he ended up as... a serial killer.
This book would be great for readers interested in mild horror and paranormal novels.
May 2, 2015
Looking for a different kind of YA paranormal? Check out Of Dreams and Shadow, about a teen connected to the mystery of a missing girl.
I took a leap of faith with Of Dreams and Shadow because I had never heard of the author prior to my participation in this blog tour. But the blurb was intriguing, so I signed up for the tour, hoping I wouldn’t regret it. I’m so glad I did! The blurb doesn’t hold a candle to the actual book. There was so much more to the story and I’m glad that I decided to be part of this tour.
Of Dreams and Shadow sucked me in from the very beginning of the story. I immediately wanted to read on to see if I would find out what happened with the little girl and what was up with her having the feeling of being watched. Most of all, I wanted to find out what the mysterious and unusual shadow was. If you’re thinking a vampire or werewolf, you’d be wrong. I won’t ruin the story, but I will say that author McKnight incorporated a unique paranormal aspect into Of Dreams and Shadow that, in my opinion, makes it stand out among other young adult paranormal fiction.
I really liked the descriptions the author used in Of Dreams and Shadow. Her writing made the town of Parson’s Cove, and characters, come alive in my head as I was reading the book. I was drawn into the lives of these fictional characters and this kept me turning pages to find out what was going to happen to them, especially Jenna. Author McKnight uses just the right amount of description to pull me into her fictional world, but didn’t have paragraph after paragraph of unnecessary details that could have ended up boring me. I also liked how the past and present were integrated into Of Dreams and Shadow because it added depth to the characters and plot.
McKnight has weaved a compelling and engrossing paranormal mystery with Of Dreams and Shadow. It will be interesting to see how she continues the series in future novels.
I took a leap of faith with Of Dreams and Shadow because I had never heard of the author prior to my participation in this blog tour. But the blurb was intriguing, so I signed up for the tour, hoping I wouldn’t regret it. I’m so glad I did! The blurb doesn’t hold a candle to the actual book. There was so much more to the story and I’m glad that I decided to be part of this tour.
Of Dreams and Shadow sucked me in from the very beginning of the story. I immediately wanted to read on to see if I would find out what happened with the little girl and what was up with her having the feeling of being watched. Most of all, I wanted to find out what the mysterious and unusual shadow was. If you’re thinking a vampire or werewolf, you’d be wrong. I won’t ruin the story, but I will say that author McKnight incorporated a unique paranormal aspect into Of Dreams and Shadow that, in my opinion, makes it stand out among other young adult paranormal fiction.
I really liked the descriptions the author used in Of Dreams and Shadow. Her writing made the town of Parson’s Cove, and characters, come alive in my head as I was reading the book. I was drawn into the lives of these fictional characters and this kept me turning pages to find out what was going to happen to them, especially Jenna. Author McKnight uses just the right amount of description to pull me into her fictional world, but didn’t have paragraph after paragraph of unnecessary details that could have ended up boring me. I also liked how the past and present were integrated into Of Dreams and Shadow because it added depth to the characters and plot.
McKnight has weaved a compelling and engrossing paranormal mystery with Of Dreams and Shadow. It will be interesting to see how she continues the series in future novels.
April 1, 2014
** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
Easily 5 STARS!! Of Dreams and Shadow was an awesome book and I am so thankful for the opportunity to read it. I read this book in 2 days and would have read it straight through in one sitting if I didn't have to work! Props to D. S. McKnight for a well written, original, unique story that sucked me in from the very beginning and wouldn't let go.
The Story opens with the horrifying disappearance of a 4 year old little girl named Sarah. Sarah's disappearance was witnessed by her next door neighbor, Chase, also 4 years old. The details that Chase recounts are too far fetched for anyone to believe and they are cast off as the ramblings of a traumatized child.
Fast forward 12 years to a teenage Chase still living in the same house and still struggling, all these years later, to make sense of what he saw. Regardless of how unrealistic it seems, he can't forget that day and he is no closer to understanding the "THING" that took Sarah away. The plot thickens when 16 year old Jenna and her mom move into Sarah's old house. Chase is instantly put off because Jenna reminds him so much of Sarah and it awakens everything he has tried to suppress. Jenna's arrival has also brought the past to the present and the story begins to unravel.
I loved how the story unfolded and how McKnight alternated from the past to the present. The glimpses into the "THINGS" past really helped us to understand how/why it came into being. Is Jenna in danger, what really happened to Sarah, will Chase finally get answers and will closure finally come for those involved in that day so long ago??
Of Dreams and Shadow will keep you perched on the edge of your seat as you eagerly turn the pages to unravel this mystery!! Awesome read, that I definitely recommend.
Easily 5 STARS!! Of Dreams and Shadow was an awesome book and I am so thankful for the opportunity to read it. I read this book in 2 days and would have read it straight through in one sitting if I didn't have to work! Props to D. S. McKnight for a well written, original, unique story that sucked me in from the very beginning and wouldn't let go.
The Story opens with the horrifying disappearance of a 4 year old little girl named Sarah. Sarah's disappearance was witnessed by her next door neighbor, Chase, also 4 years old. The details that Chase recounts are too far fetched for anyone to believe and they are cast off as the ramblings of a traumatized child.
Fast forward 12 years to a teenage Chase still living in the same house and still struggling, all these years later, to make sense of what he saw. Regardless of how unrealistic it seems, he can't forget that day and he is no closer to understanding the "THING" that took Sarah away. The plot thickens when 16 year old Jenna and her mom move into Sarah's old house. Chase is instantly put off because Jenna reminds him so much of Sarah and it awakens everything he has tried to suppress. Jenna's arrival has also brought the past to the present and the story begins to unravel.
I loved how the story unfolded and how McKnight alternated from the past to the present. The glimpses into the "THINGS" past really helped us to understand how/why it came into being. Is Jenna in danger, what really happened to Sarah, will Chase finally get answers and will closure finally come for those involved in that day so long ago??
Of Dreams and Shadow will keep you perched on the edge of your seat as you eagerly turn the pages to unravel this mystery!! Awesome read, that I definitely recommend.
January 27, 2014
I was very intrigued to read this book, just by the blurb. The title intrigued me as well, and I was curious to what this "threat" was about and I wanted to read it and figure it out. This is creepy if you do not like shadows, kind of plays up the fear that the author obviously had when she was younger, but plays on everyone's fear of the dark and things in the dark. The story isn't a horror story at all, but plays on a fear that most of us have or had of the dark/shadows.
The beginning of this story is a bit sad, with what happens to Sarah and all, but gives a good entrance into the book and keeps you wanting to read more to find out what happened to Sarah and what exactly this shadow thing is.
I loved how the author flipped from the past to present time, and the way that she developed Silas was just awesome. She painted a very clear picture of who and why he is the way he is. In a way you almost feel sorry for him, but the way that he handles things make you not feel so bad anymore. He clearly is a person who has lost all control of reality.
Back to present time, I loved Jenna right away and completely understood how she felt being in a new place and trying to settle in. I'm glad the author didn't focus too much on her friends back home because that would have pulled away from the story. Chase was mean from the start, but he has a reason, and throughout the book you find out why and understand why he was/is the way he is. The relationship between Chase and Jenna is very real and I loved every minute of it.
I'm very excited for the next installment of this series, and see what does happen with Silas!
The beginning of this story is a bit sad, with what happens to Sarah and all, but gives a good entrance into the book and keeps you wanting to read more to find out what happened to Sarah and what exactly this shadow thing is.
I loved how the author flipped from the past to present time, and the way that she developed Silas was just awesome. She painted a very clear picture of who and why he is the way he is. In a way you almost feel sorry for him, but the way that he handles things make you not feel so bad anymore. He clearly is a person who has lost all control of reality.
Back to present time, I loved Jenna right away and completely understood how she felt being in a new place and trying to settle in. I'm glad the author didn't focus too much on her friends back home because that would have pulled away from the story. Chase was mean from the start, but he has a reason, and throughout the book you find out why and understand why he was/is the way he is. The relationship between Chase and Jenna is very real and I loved every minute of it.
I'm very excited for the next installment of this series, and see what does happen with Silas!
May 27, 2014
The furthest thing from Jenna Barton's mind is the possibility of an afterlife. We live, and then we die. To be completely honest, the question of whether or not there was anything more to life had never even crossed her mind. However, after moving to the coastal town of Parson's Cove, Jenna is about to find out that there is so much more to this life than only what can be seen.
She is totally heart-broken when she and her mother move to Parson's Cove, North Carolina. As any teenager would, Jenna misses her friends and the life that she had back in her old hometown. Although, given time, Jenna might come to accept her role as the new girl in town.
As a matter of fact, moving to this quaint little coastal town has Jenna stepping right into the middle of an unsolved mystery. Twelve years ago, a little girl named Sarah went missing. Unfortunately, the predator who grabbed her is still on the loose, and unwittingly, Jenna Barton has become his newest obsession. With a little luck and a bit of paranormal help, Jenna just might survive.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I usually enjoy reading stories with paranormal and supernatural touches to the plot, and because this was an unusual, but very intriguing premise; I was completely drawn into the story from the beginning. In my opinion, this story was very well-written and the characters sympathetic and well-developed.
I will certainly be on the look out for more from this author in the future; if that means waiting to read the next book in this series, then so much the better! I give Of Dreams and Shadow by D. S. McKnight a definite A+!
She is totally heart-broken when she and her mother move to Parson's Cove, North Carolina. As any teenager would, Jenna misses her friends and the life that she had back in her old hometown. Although, given time, Jenna might come to accept her role as the new girl in town.
As a matter of fact, moving to this quaint little coastal town has Jenna stepping right into the middle of an unsolved mystery. Twelve years ago, a little girl named Sarah went missing. Unfortunately, the predator who grabbed her is still on the loose, and unwittingly, Jenna Barton has become his newest obsession. With a little luck and a bit of paranormal help, Jenna just might survive.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I usually enjoy reading stories with paranormal and supernatural touches to the plot, and because this was an unusual, but very intriguing premise; I was completely drawn into the story from the beginning. In my opinion, this story was very well-written and the characters sympathetic and well-developed.
I will certainly be on the look out for more from this author in the future; if that means waiting to read the next book in this series, then so much the better! I give Of Dreams and Shadow by D. S. McKnight a definite A+!
July 26, 2016
Cover love! I just love the color of this cover. And I love the simplicity of it - the single flower with the swishy blue/black shadowy background. Ahhh.
Whew! This story starts out pretty intense. A little girl playing in her back yard but feeling like someone or something is watching her. And a shadow that just isn't right. I wasn't sure what just happened. Yep, gotta keep reading!
And then the reader is taken into that same neighborhood, 12 years later, as we learn about another girl, this time a teenager, who moves into the community. Jenna is just trying to fit into that world, high school can be tough for the new kid. Pretty soon, she experiences the same feelings as the little girl, like someone or something is watching her.
'He had touched your mind and you have touched his.'<
Of Dreams and Shadow held my attention from the very start, with all the mystery and questions and the intertwined lives of the teenagers, some of it good and and some of it bad. The author has a wonderful imagination and writes a very intriguing story that combines characters from the past, who aren't content to stay in the past, and those in the present who are affected by those from the past.
'It seems that anything is possible, even things that seemed the stuff of fairytales.'
I love the fact that this is book #1 in the Forget Me Not series. I am excited to see what the author has is store for us next!
Originally posted on The Book Bag
Whew! This story starts out pretty intense. A little girl playing in her back yard but feeling like someone or something is watching her. And a shadow that just isn't right. I wasn't sure what just happened. Yep, gotta keep reading!
And then the reader is taken into that same neighborhood, 12 years later, as we learn about another girl, this time a teenager, who moves into the community. Jenna is just trying to fit into that world, high school can be tough for the new kid. Pretty soon, she experiences the same feelings as the little girl, like someone or something is watching her.
'He had touched your mind and you have touched his.'<
Of Dreams and Shadow held my attention from the very start, with all the mystery and questions and the intertwined lives of the teenagers, some of it good and and some of it bad. The author has a wonderful imagination and writes a very intriguing story that combines characters from the past, who aren't content to stay in the past, and those in the present who are affected by those from the past.
'It seems that anything is possible, even things that seemed the stuff of fairytales.'
I love the fact that this is book #1 in the Forget Me Not series. I am excited to see what the author has is store for us next!
Originally posted on The Book Bag
January 18, 2014
Even though this book probably aimed more at a teen audience, I really liked it! The characters and most of the plot were fairly typical of teenage chick lit, but the characters were very likeable, especially the main character, Jenna. She was authentic, recognisable, and not at all annoying. The supporting cast of characters were equally quirky and fun. Throw in some romance and high-school drama, and you've already got the basis of a good read.
Where Of Dreams and Shadows differed was in the paranormal element. Before you turn away in disgust, expecting another vampire or werewolf forbidden love, STOP! There is none of that here. In this story, the paranormal storyline is completely unique, rather than a rewrite of the same old story that so many books are relying on these days. McKnight instead weaves a tale of shadows and history seamlessly into the otherwise unremarkable high-school plot, taking the book from average to compelling.
The darkness is intriguing from the very first page, and the reader is hooked, waiting to find out what really lies in the shadows of the backyard, and how Jenna will overcome it.
If you like a little paranormal mystery in your teen fiction, but you're sick of vampires and werewolves, this book could be for you. Compelling and unusual, I'm intrigued by the 'Book 1' label on the cover - perhaps Jenna and co. will be back, entangled with some other paranormal force in their sleepy little town?
Where Of Dreams and Shadows differed was in the paranormal element. Before you turn away in disgust, expecting another vampire or werewolf forbidden love, STOP! There is none of that here. In this story, the paranormal storyline is completely unique, rather than a rewrite of the same old story that so many books are relying on these days. McKnight instead weaves a tale of shadows and history seamlessly into the otherwise unremarkable high-school plot, taking the book from average to compelling.
The darkness is intriguing from the very first page, and the reader is hooked, waiting to find out what really lies in the shadows of the backyard, and how Jenna will overcome it.
If you like a little paranormal mystery in your teen fiction, but you're sick of vampires and werewolves, this book could be for you. Compelling and unusual, I'm intrigued by the 'Book 1' label on the cover - perhaps Jenna and co. will be back, entangled with some other paranormal force in their sleepy little town?
November 20, 2013
This tale is emotionally gripping and full of suspense, making it very hard to put down. This is the touching story of a young girl who was murdered as a child and comes back to help another girl avoid a similar fate.
Jenna is a typical teen girl who moves to a new neighborhood and finds both dark and light already inhabiting her home. This story grabs the reader’s attention and doesn’t let go. I couldn’t wait to find out the ending, but I was sad to see it come to a close.
History and present day are intertwined in this tale. We see the back story of the dark entity, which gives us a glimpse into his depraved mind. His chapters were fascinating, and I felt some pity for his childhood. Ultimately, I could not forgive what he became. Like all the characters in this book, he is very well written.
If you enjoy good Young Adult fiction that has a twist of the supernatural rather than one that goes way over the top, this book is for you. Here is a perfect balance of reality and fantasy that makes this story feel as if it were true. I can’t recommend this book highly enough.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
Jenna is a typical teen girl who moves to a new neighborhood and finds both dark and light already inhabiting her home. This story grabs the reader’s attention and doesn’t let go. I couldn’t wait to find out the ending, but I was sad to see it come to a close.
History and present day are intertwined in this tale. We see the back story of the dark entity, which gives us a glimpse into his depraved mind. His chapters were fascinating, and I felt some pity for his childhood. Ultimately, I could not forgive what he became. Like all the characters in this book, he is very well written.
If you enjoy good Young Adult fiction that has a twist of the supernatural rather than one that goes way over the top, this book is for you. Here is a perfect balance of reality and fantasy that makes this story feel as if it were true. I can’t recommend this book highly enough.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
August 28, 2016
I was very intrigued to read this book, just by the blurb. The title intrigued me as well, and I was curious to what this "threat" was about and I wanted to read it and figure it out. This is creepy if you do not like shadows, kind of plays up the fear that the author obviously had when she was younger, but plays on everyone's fear of the dark and things in the dark. The story isn't a horror story at all, but plays on a fear that most of us have or had of the dark/shadows.
The beginning of this story is a bit sad, with what happens to Sarah and all, but gives a good entrance into the book and keeps you wanting to read more to find out what happened to Sarah and what exactly this shadow thing is.
Read full review at Step Into Fiction
Review completed by: Jessica
The beginning of this story is a bit sad, with what happens to Sarah and all, but gives a good entrance into the book and keeps you wanting to read more to find out what happened to Sarah and what exactly this shadow thing is.
Read full review at Step Into Fiction
Review completed by: Jessica
February 2, 2014
A bit of paranormal, mystery and lots of page turning....Of Dreams and Shadows kept me at the edge of my seat! The writing keeps me on my toes. I really had no idea what to expect with the story. The blurb doesn't give much away at all, but what it does have intrigued me- and the story that went with it did not disappoint. Right from the start, my interest piqued. I needed to know more. The author did a great job setting up an eerie scene at first, and then tied in the plot. It appears to be the first in a series, so I'm very curious to see how the rest pans out. Definite recommended read.
December 13, 2013
I was scared! Literally. Also I was having bad dreams in these days but after reading this book,I don't If I could sleep anymore! But at the same tmie I like the book. The relationships very likely. I like it. Also writing style was very smooth and easy. You could finished this book in 1 day like me.Well I could read more faster but I have some issues in my laptop soI read half of it morning and other half in evening.
December 15, 2013
D.S. McKnight weaves together a tale that merges a haunting murderer's past and a young teenage's girl's present. The book begins with a chilling scene, throwing the reader into the mind of an evil specter.
McKnight creates a suspenseful atmosphere that lures the reader in for more. The use of an eerie small town on the North Carolina coast provides the perfect setting for this story.
This is definitely a worthwhile read, sure to keep you eager to dive deeper and wanting more!
McKnight creates a suspenseful atmosphere that lures the reader in for more. The use of an eerie small town on the North Carolina coast provides the perfect setting for this story.
This is definitely a worthwhile read, sure to keep you eager to dive deeper and wanting more!
February 22, 2014
I received this book for free through the Goodreads First Reads program.
This was very creepy, right from the start it sent shivers down my spine. A little too high-school romancey for my tastes, but I really enjoyed the supernatural aspects of it. The characters were somewhat one-dimensional but the overall story more than made up for that.
This was very creepy, right from the start it sent shivers down my spine. A little too high-school romancey for my tastes, but I really enjoyed the supernatural aspects of it. The characters were somewhat one-dimensional but the overall story more than made up for that.
January 11, 2014
I'm still terrified and the book is over. What an imagination this writer has. I was on the edge of my seat from beginning till end. This story will not leave me anytime soon. That's what I call great writing.
June 3, 2014
**** Review Originally Posted at
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict ****
"Of Dreams and Shadow" by D.S. McKnight almost seemed to be two books in one. On one hand, it's a high school drama story about a girl moving in to a new town and going to a new school, but on the other hand, it's a story about an old paranormal evil lurking and plotting out of sight.
I was actually surprised by how much of this book was devoted to our main character Jenna's new life at her new school. A good chunk of this book read like a regular YA instead of one of the paranormal variety. Our story begins with Jenna and her mother moving to the small town of Parson's Cove, and the reader gets a lot of her interacting with a new group of friends and trying to figure out what is behind the boy next door's attitude towards her.
Since I like young adult books, I didn't have a problem with how much high school drama there was, and actually thought that it was a nice balance with the supernatural element. Instead of being bogged down with all of the paranormal things happening, we are able to still see our characters socializing and living somewhat normal lives.
Even though it takes a long time for Jenna to realize that there is something out of the ordinary going on in her new life, the reader gets to have more insight. The point of view in this story jumps around, and even includes glimpses into the evil spirit of the story's thoughts and actions. By doing this, we get to see that there is more going on under the surface in Parson's Cove, even if Jenna thinks that the most she has to deal with is the mean girl at her school.
Through the point of view jumps, we also get some back story on the old evil that lies in Jenna's back yard. The reader gets to see the past and all of the different chains of events that led to our current story. I always like when authors give us some more information this way, because it makes the story more well-rounded if we get to know characters' motivations and pasts.
"Of Dreams and Shadow" was one of those books that I didn't want to put down. I wanted to just keep reading until the mystery was solved and Jenna and her friends were out of danger. I would recommend it to anyone who doesn't only like paranormal stories, but is also interested in run of the mill high school stories.
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict ****
"Of Dreams and Shadow" by D.S. McKnight almost seemed to be two books in one. On one hand, it's a high school drama story about a girl moving in to a new town and going to a new school, but on the other hand, it's a story about an old paranormal evil lurking and plotting out of sight.
I was actually surprised by how much of this book was devoted to our main character Jenna's new life at her new school. A good chunk of this book read like a regular YA instead of one of the paranormal variety. Our story begins with Jenna and her mother moving to the small town of Parson's Cove, and the reader gets a lot of her interacting with a new group of friends and trying to figure out what is behind the boy next door's attitude towards her.
Since I like young adult books, I didn't have a problem with how much high school drama there was, and actually thought that it was a nice balance with the supernatural element. Instead of being bogged down with all of the paranormal things happening, we are able to still see our characters socializing and living somewhat normal lives.
Even though it takes a long time for Jenna to realize that there is something out of the ordinary going on in her new life, the reader gets to have more insight. The point of view in this story jumps around, and even includes glimpses into the evil spirit of the story's thoughts and actions. By doing this, we get to see that there is more going on under the surface in Parson's Cove, even if Jenna thinks that the most she has to deal with is the mean girl at her school.
Through the point of view jumps, we also get some back story on the old evil that lies in Jenna's back yard. The reader gets to see the past and all of the different chains of events that led to our current story. I always like when authors give us some more information this way, because it makes the story more well-rounded if we get to know characters' motivations and pasts.
"Of Dreams and Shadow" was one of those books that I didn't want to put down. I wanted to just keep reading until the mystery was solved and Jenna and her friends were out of danger. I would recommend it to anyone who doesn't only like paranormal stories, but is also interested in run of the mill high school stories.
March 4, 2014
I was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Characters: Main is Jenna, who moved to Parson's Cove with her mother from North Carolina. At first, she is lonely and bitter about leaving her friends, but then she starts making new ones and blending in. Then there is Chase, her next door neighbor and classmate, who seems to hate Jenna on the spot. When Chase was younger, he saw a little girl, Sarah, that lived in the house before Jenna vanish. But it turns out, Sarah was taken by a mysterious evil shadow who's been around since the 1800's. Jenna is your average teenage girl and other than her strong bond with her mother, I didn't find anything remarkable about her, but she was developed enough to push the story along. Chase seems torn between love and hate for his new neighbor, so his behavior is kind of erratic for most of the novel.
Plot: Jenna's new life is going smoothly until she finds an old, sparkling necklace in her backyard. Then she begins having terrible nightmares and visitations from a teenage girl, who she later finds out is Sarah. Sarah is still under the dark shadow, which is the spirit of an angry murderer named Silas. But Sarah wants to destroy Silas, so together, she, Chase, and Jenna come up with a plan to bury him permanently.
Writing: Although Jenna is the main character, the novel takes on the point of view of some of the other characters, including Chase and Silas. Since Silas has been around for a couple of hundred years, his thoughts and words are in Old English. McKnight nails this beautifully. She also portrays the modern-day teenagers in a realistic way. The story is captivating and unlike anything I've ever read before. Although I think the ending happened a little too fast, the sequence of events flowed nicely. I would recommend Of Dreams and Shadow to all lovers of young adult, since it appeals to both paranormal and contemporary fans.
Characters: Main is Jenna, who moved to Parson's Cove with her mother from North Carolina. At first, she is lonely and bitter about leaving her friends, but then she starts making new ones and blending in. Then there is Chase, her next door neighbor and classmate, who seems to hate Jenna on the spot. When Chase was younger, he saw a little girl, Sarah, that lived in the house before Jenna vanish. But it turns out, Sarah was taken by a mysterious evil shadow who's been around since the 1800's. Jenna is your average teenage girl and other than her strong bond with her mother, I didn't find anything remarkable about her, but she was developed enough to push the story along. Chase seems torn between love and hate for his new neighbor, so his behavior is kind of erratic for most of the novel.
Plot: Jenna's new life is going smoothly until she finds an old, sparkling necklace in her backyard. Then she begins having terrible nightmares and visitations from a teenage girl, who she later finds out is Sarah. Sarah is still under the dark shadow, which is the spirit of an angry murderer named Silas. But Sarah wants to destroy Silas, so together, she, Chase, and Jenna come up with a plan to bury him permanently.
Writing: Although Jenna is the main character, the novel takes on the point of view of some of the other characters, including Chase and Silas. Since Silas has been around for a couple of hundred years, his thoughts and words are in Old English. McKnight nails this beautifully. She also portrays the modern-day teenagers in a realistic way. The story is captivating and unlike anything I've ever read before. Although I think the ending happened a little too fast, the sequence of events flowed nicely. I would recommend Of Dreams and Shadow to all lovers of young adult, since it appeals to both paranormal and contemporary fans.
November 21, 2013
3 - 3.5 Stars in my Sky!
Of Dreams and Shadow: Forget Me Not is sweet, sentimental and slightly sinister. Sounds an odd mix I know but this adeptly describes D.S. McKnight's YA novel; the friendships and romances are sweet, the almost fairy tale element is really sentimental and the baddie is most definitely sinister!
4-year-old Sarah goes missing in a strange and supernatural manner witnessed only by 4-year-old neighbour Chase. For 12 years nobody knows what happened to Sarah and when 16-year-old Jenna and her Mum move into Sarah's old house a now teenage Chase is worried.
Jenna cannot understand why Chase instantly dislikes her and is embarrassed by her obvious interest in him. There is a reason for Chase's supposed dislike which given the circumstances and the age of the characters was completely understandable.
The book is paranormal without being paranormal. Jenna and Chase face some strange and mysterious circumstances yet D.S. McKnight doesn't rely too heavily on the supernatural elements. There were a couple of small issues surrounding Silas which didn't make complete sense to me but they're fairly inconsequential to the plot.
The book follows Jenna and Chase as they investigate the past and confront the shocking present. The side plot focused largely on the teen battleground that is high school. Jenna faces moving to a new town where everybody knows everyone else's business and the horror of making new friends. There is of course the obligatory mean girl who I have to admit I kept expecting to be something supernatural.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review!
March 27, 2014
I got this book from the author as a complimentary copy, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author and the tour organizers fro giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Okay, so the first thing that comes to mind is that this is an average read. I can't say that I hated it because there was plenty to love and I can't say that I loved it totally because that will be a dishonest review.
So, the things I liked are the characters mainly. They were fully developed and played their part very well. Each one of them was distinct in nature and attitude and had a strong personality especially the female lead. I gave this book 3 stars just because of the lovely characters.
Okay so there is what I liked now lets move to what I didn't like. The first thing that dimmed my excitement is the story line. Well, to be honest I liked the story line but the execution of the concept wasn't up to the mark. Secondly I didn't like the pace at all. It was damn slow and that irritated me. And thirdly and most importantly the fact the annoyed me the most is the lack of suspense and surprise, well I don't know about you guys but I saw all the major twists coming and that left no room for suspense or mystery.
So as you can see there are more negative points than positive but that's entirely mine opinion so as I always say, opinions are subjective so I would encourage you guys to go for it and give it a chance.
Firstly I would like to thank the author and the tour organizers fro giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Okay, so the first thing that comes to mind is that this is an average read. I can't say that I hated it because there was plenty to love and I can't say that I loved it totally because that will be a dishonest review.
So, the things I liked are the characters mainly. They were fully developed and played their part very well. Each one of them was distinct in nature and attitude and had a strong personality especially the female lead. I gave this book 3 stars just because of the lovely characters.
Okay so there is what I liked now lets move to what I didn't like. The first thing that dimmed my excitement is the story line. Well, to be honest I liked the story line but the execution of the concept wasn't up to the mark. Secondly I didn't like the pace at all. It was damn slow and that irritated me. And thirdly and most importantly the fact the annoyed me the most is the lack of suspense and surprise, well I don't know about you guys but I saw all the major twists coming and that left no room for suspense or mystery.
So as you can see there are more negative points than positive but that's entirely mine opinion so as I always say, opinions are subjective so I would encourage you guys to go for it and give it a chance.
January 24, 2014
A little girl goes missing after playing in her yard and the only witness cannot get anyone to believe him in Of Dreams of Shadow by D. S. McKnight. Twelve years later Jenna Barton and her family moves into the house of the missing girl. Chad is the boy next door who befriends Jenna. Jenna’s defenses are up and she cannot decide if Chad is an ally or out to get her like his on again off again girlfriend.
At school Jenna and Chad are partnered for a project that brings them closer together and allows Chad to watch over Jenna. Chad has a feeling that trouble is brewing and does not want Jenna in the middle. Unbeknownst to Chad, the man from twelve years ago has found his next prey.
What I Did Not Like: Some areas did not have smooth transitions. I also did not care for the 1700 period flashbacks even though I understand why they were included.
What I Did Like: This was an interesting young adult mystery that kept me turning the pages. I enjoyed the characters even though Jenna frustrated me at times. The storyline was consistent and will keep readers intrigued. I recommend this book to others.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes.
Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews
4 Stars=Great Page Turner
At school Jenna and Chad are partnered for a project that brings them closer together and allows Chad to watch over Jenna. Chad has a feeling that trouble is brewing and does not want Jenna in the middle. Unbeknownst to Chad, the man from twelve years ago has found his next prey.
What I Did Not Like: Some areas did not have smooth transitions. I also did not care for the 1700 period flashbacks even though I understand why they were included.
What I Did Like: This was an interesting young adult mystery that kept me turning the pages. I enjoyed the characters even though Jenna frustrated me at times. The storyline was consistent and will keep readers intrigued. I recommend this book to others.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes.
Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews
4 Stars=Great Page Turner
September 1, 2014
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Of Dreams and Shadow is a young adult novel with a little romance and a touch of the paranormal.
It was easy for me to relate to Jenna because my family moved when I was around the same age. She was lucky to find new friends so quickly. Her next door neighbor, Chase, is a good guy but he’s a jerk to Jenna because he’s scared for her safety. That didn’t make sense to me and I was glad when he got past that.
There is a story within this story about Silas, who lived in the 1700’s. Even though Silas was raised by an abusive, evil mother, it was hard to feel sorry for him because he is so evil.
I liked Of Dreams and Shadow although I was disappointed in the ending. I expected it to be more exciting or suspenseful at the end.
Of Dreams and Shadow is a young adult novel with a little romance and a touch of the paranormal.
It was easy for me to relate to Jenna because my family moved when I was around the same age. She was lucky to find new friends so quickly. Her next door neighbor, Chase, is a good guy but he’s a jerk to Jenna because he’s scared for her safety. That didn’t make sense to me and I was glad when he got past that.
There is a story within this story about Silas, who lived in the 1700’s. Even though Silas was raised by an abusive, evil mother, it was hard to feel sorry for him because he is so evil.
I liked Of Dreams and Shadow although I was disappointed in the ending. I expected it to be more exciting or suspenseful at the end.
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