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The Final Deity #1
Balancer
What if you had the power to balance life? But in order to give life, you had to take it from somewhere else?
When teenagers Nicole and Amy save a child from a freak wildfire, they unwittingly trigger a bizarre sequence of events. In the following days, Nicole finds herself caught up in more extraordinary happenings, until she is forced to confront the startling truth about herself: She has the power to give life or take life from every living thing around her. As Nicole tests the extent of her powers, her activities attract the attention of mysterious agents who believe the girls are part of a larger terrorist plot. Now on a trail into the unknown, Nicole and Amy will be forced to question just what is real -- and who they can trust.
When teenagers Nicole and Amy save a child from a freak wildfire, they unwittingly trigger a bizarre sequence of events. In the following days, Nicole finds herself caught up in more extraordinary happenings, until she is forced to confront the startling truth about herself: She has the power to give life or take life from every living thing around her. As Nicole tests the extent of her powers, her activities attract the attention of mysterious agents who believe the girls are part of a larger terrorist plot. Now on a trail into the unknown, Nicole and Amy will be forced to question just what is real -- and who they can trust.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2013
17 people are currently reading
1768 people want to read
About the author
Patrick Wong
9 books25 followersPatrick Wong is the author of BALANCER and TAKER, part of The Final Deity series of books. He's a graduate of James Madison University and lives in the Northern Virginia area with his wife and two daughters. By day, he's a computer software developer for major corporations and government agencies. By night, he's a indie author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 20, 2016
First, I want to point out that I have won this paperback in a Goodreads First Read giveaway. I'd like to thank the author and Goodreads for the opportunity to read this book.
I absolutely loved it. I even had to stay up in the middle of the night to finish it.
The characters were natural: young and playful, and not acting stupid as it often happens in a teen/young adult book. I liked that we learned and discovered about the protagonist's 'talent' as she did. The flow was great, without sagging moment: Over all a well-written and interesting story. I can't wait to read the sequel.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes paranormal, from age 12 to 100.
June 13, 2014
Now, I've really been trying to stay away from new series' lately as I still have well over a thousand books sitting in my room or on my Kindle, so I have enough on my plate as it is. I was really interested in this book when I first saw it though, so I figured I would read at least the first one, even if I did not continue with the series.
I will most definitely be continuing with the series though! I really loved this book. The plot was really different and cool, and I'm always a sucker for books that root in mythology.
I found it easy to relate to Nicole. She was young, yes, but she had a good head on her. She always thought things out before attempting them, and tried to find the way to cause the least amount of harm.
I really can't wait to read more of this series, as this one left off in a bit of a cliffhanger. Oh the suspense.
I will most definitely be continuing with the series though! I really loved this book. The plot was really different and cool, and I'm always a sucker for books that root in mythology.
I found it easy to relate to Nicole. She was young, yes, but she had a good head on her. She always thought things out before attempting them, and tried to find the way to cause the least amount of harm.
I really can't wait to read more of this series, as this one left off in a bit of a cliffhanger. Oh the suspense.
February 27, 2020
Great read
I really enjoyed this one. The characters, the storyline, just the whole premise of the book really drew me in and kept me wanting more.....until sadly it ended
I really enjoyed this one. The characters, the storyline, just the whole premise of the book really drew me in and kept me wanting more.....until sadly it ended
February 17, 2014
*I won this book through Goodreads First Reads giveaway. In no way has this influenced my rating or opinion of this book. Thank you to Goodreads and to Mr. Patrick Wong for this opportunity.*
I would like to start by saying that this is a FIRST book from Mr. Wong and boy does he deliver! If this is the kind of writing he is doing at the very beginning of his career, I cannot wait to see how long and fruitful his career ends up being. I found the cover was very eye catching. The cover alone would have reeled me in.
I felt the story has great pace. You do not have to wait long to be pulled into the drama that is suddenly placed in Nicole's path. I am an adult, but I felt everything that Nicole was going through as she has this sudden "gift" that she learns about. I was impressed that Mr. Wong did not rush that part of the story too quickly.
Nicole learns about her power by accident and acts like a normal teenager by first experimenting with it like any other teenager would. But then the full impact of what she is capable of doing hits her and she decides that it is too much and she does not want to be responsible for causing life to end for one so that life can continue for another. She decides to ignore her power and keep herself away from anyone who she might accidently shift the balance of life to.
I loved the dynamic of the relationships within this book: from Nicole and Amy, to Nicole and Ben, to Nicole and her mom and dad, Amy and Nicole and Ethan, Mr. Bishop and Mr. Carter...etc. Once you read the book, I hope you will discover all the wonderful intricacies of those relationships. Everyone in the story was impactful. I did not feel that there was anyone in the story that did not need to be.
I felt the way Nicole explored and used her powers was fascinating. From the pencil drawings, to the feathers, to the bulbs lighting and to threading the needle (you’ll understand when you read it). It was a great device to illustrate how Nicole’s abilities worked and how she was able to focus and control her powers.
There was plenty of plot twist to keep the story from being too predictable. The character personalities are what made the book the most interesting for me. To see all the relationships develop and grow was smooth and realistic.
I truly appreciated the author taking the time to develop the story and plot threads. To show character development and then weave them all together into a fantastical read! Hopefully, Wong continues the story because it has all the ingredients to be a fabulous series. I will be keeping my eye on this author and any of his future work. If you are between the ages of 12-100 and enjoy a book that is different than the rest....this is the book for you! A must read!
I would like to start by saying that this is a FIRST book from Mr. Wong and boy does he deliver! If this is the kind of writing he is doing at the very beginning of his career, I cannot wait to see how long and fruitful his career ends up being. I found the cover was very eye catching. The cover alone would have reeled me in.
I felt the story has great pace. You do not have to wait long to be pulled into the drama that is suddenly placed in Nicole's path. I am an adult, but I felt everything that Nicole was going through as she has this sudden "gift" that she learns about. I was impressed that Mr. Wong did not rush that part of the story too quickly.
Nicole learns about her power by accident and acts like a normal teenager by first experimenting with it like any other teenager would. But then the full impact of what she is capable of doing hits her and she decides that it is too much and she does not want to be responsible for causing life to end for one so that life can continue for another. She decides to ignore her power and keep herself away from anyone who she might accidently shift the balance of life to.
I loved the dynamic of the relationships within this book: from Nicole and Amy, to Nicole and Ben, to Nicole and her mom and dad, Amy and Nicole and Ethan, Mr. Bishop and Mr. Carter...etc. Once you read the book, I hope you will discover all the wonderful intricacies of those relationships. Everyone in the story was impactful. I did not feel that there was anyone in the story that did not need to be.
I felt the way Nicole explored and used her powers was fascinating. From the pencil drawings, to the feathers, to the bulbs lighting and to threading the needle (you’ll understand when you read it). It was a great device to illustrate how Nicole’s abilities worked and how she was able to focus and control her powers.
There was plenty of plot twist to keep the story from being too predictable. The character personalities are what made the book the most interesting for me. To see all the relationships develop and grow was smooth and realistic.
I truly appreciated the author taking the time to develop the story and plot threads. To show character development and then weave them all together into a fantastical read! Hopefully, Wong continues the story because it has all the ingredients to be a fabulous series. I will be keeping my eye on this author and any of his future work. If you are between the ages of 12-100 and enjoy a book that is different than the rest....this is the book for you! A must read!
November 21, 2013
Balancer (The Final Deity #1 ) by Patrick Wong
Balancer (The Final Deity #1 ) by Patrick Wong is about Nicole and her friend Amy who get caught up in a forest fire, rescues a young girl and her dog from the fire and Nicole ends up thrust in the limelight labeled as a hero. Nicole goes to visit the little girl she rescued and is amazed at how well this little girl appeared to be. Nicole was expecting the girl to be in the hospital bed because of the severe injuries she had the day of the fire. However, Elise appeared to be injury free and that extended to her dog Charlie. Nicole is confused and doesn’t understand what’s going on.
One day, while Skyping with her father, she notice that she forgot to water her father’s bonsai tree and it was “arid as a desert and appeared very far from fine. His leaves had gone yellow.” Nicole felt terrible because she knew I could take years for the tree to recover. After she was off the phone with her father, she thought about how she let her father down with not taking care of the tree and she looked at it and it was vibrant and healthy. Nicole figures out that she has the ability to take or give life to any living thing that she is near.
Nicole tells Amy what she can do and Amy is really excited. Amy wants Nicole to do something with “her powers” but Nicole doesn’t. However, she changes her mind with a little boy named Ethan who is on his death bed. After she helps Ethan she is on the government’s radar and is being followed.
Ben, a classmate and future friend, figured out what Nicole was through his own detective work and tried numerous times to extend a helping hand to Nicole who basically shuns him. After she noticed she was being followed, she contacts Ben, apologizes and they begin collaborating.
The characters were well rounded and the story had a nice flow. I never felt a lull in the story. There was something always happening. I like how Wong’s teenage characters felt and acted like real teenagers.
The author also has taken his time to build the story. He does not try to rush. Wong allows the story to slowly build so the reader can take everything in, which then allows the reader to connect with the characters.
Hopefully, Wong continues the story because it has all the ingredients to be a fabulous series.
Definite must read!
4 Stars
*I won this book through Goodreads First Reads giveaway. In no way has this influenced my rating or opinion of this book.*
Balancer (The Final Deity #1 ) by Patrick Wong is about Nicole and her friend Amy who get caught up in a forest fire, rescues a young girl and her dog from the fire and Nicole ends up thrust in the limelight labeled as a hero. Nicole goes to visit the little girl she rescued and is amazed at how well this little girl appeared to be. Nicole was expecting the girl to be in the hospital bed because of the severe injuries she had the day of the fire. However, Elise appeared to be injury free and that extended to her dog Charlie. Nicole is confused and doesn’t understand what’s going on.
One day, while Skyping with her father, she notice that she forgot to water her father’s bonsai tree and it was “arid as a desert and appeared very far from fine. His leaves had gone yellow.” Nicole felt terrible because she knew I could take years for the tree to recover. After she was off the phone with her father, she thought about how she let her father down with not taking care of the tree and she looked at it and it was vibrant and healthy. Nicole figures out that she has the ability to take or give life to any living thing that she is near.
Nicole tells Amy what she can do and Amy is really excited. Amy wants Nicole to do something with “her powers” but Nicole doesn’t. However, she changes her mind with a little boy named Ethan who is on his death bed. After she helps Ethan she is on the government’s radar and is being followed.
Ben, a classmate and future friend, figured out what Nicole was through his own detective work and tried numerous times to extend a helping hand to Nicole who basically shuns him. After she noticed she was being followed, she contacts Ben, apologizes and they begin collaborating.
The characters were well rounded and the story had a nice flow. I never felt a lull in the story. There was something always happening. I like how Wong’s teenage characters felt and acted like real teenagers.
The author also has taken his time to build the story. He does not try to rush. Wong allows the story to slowly build so the reader can take everything in, which then allows the reader to connect with the characters.
Hopefully, Wong continues the story because it has all the ingredients to be a fabulous series.
Definite must read!
4 Stars
*I won this book through Goodreads First Reads giveaway. In no way has this influenced my rating or opinion of this book.*
April 28, 2016
I really enjoyed this self-published work and could not put the story down. I’m excited to read more from this new series! Mr. Wong wrapped up enough of the story to make it satisfying but also left enough mystery to leave me anticipating what’s to come. While the story does not focus on Nicole’s “powers” for a while, there is still enough mystery and mayhem to keep you turning the pages with enthusiasm.
I loved the historical tie in with the Fountain of Youth. I do not read a lot of stories around this myth, and I enjoyed the ideas presented about “balancers.” Great exploration into the myth and its origin. However, I’m not sure how this relates to the first part of the book title: “The Last Deity.” This must be something to come in the next stories.
The main character, Nicole, is well-rounded and very likeable. She’s smart and empathetic. I think all the characters in the book worked well together to advance the storyline. The teenagers are mindful of their actions and do not act stupidly, which I appreciated. I found a lot of that happening in “Divergent,” which I was less impressed with because of how the characters acted in that book.
I thought the way Nicole explored and used her powers was fascinating. From the pencil drawings to the feathers to the bulbs lighting to threading the needle (you’ll get it when you read it), it was a great device to illustrate how Nicole’s abilities worked and how she was able to focus and control her powers.
Mr. Wong puts in many different plot threads, and I really enjoyed how they came together. This book is not focused on one element. It’s a book about character development more than extraordinary events. It explores how these events are dealt with by different character personalities in the book.
The pace of the book is great. The author is not afraid to take time to develop the plot threads. I really liked everything included in the book and the story climax. If anything, I wanted more historical visions, but the few used were intentionally and effectively placed. The story has some great emotional moments that resonate. It was fun, fascinating, and exciting. Excellent plot, characters, and historical foundations!
Mr. Wong, you need to write book 2 right now! I cannot wait to find out more about this “balancer” world and what Nicole learns next about her abilities! Get going man! I’m a big fan of this book and where the series is headed!
**I won this book in a Goodreads First Read giveaway. Thank you to Mr. Wong and Goodreads for this opportunity.**
I loved the historical tie in with the Fountain of Youth. I do not read a lot of stories around this myth, and I enjoyed the ideas presented about “balancers.” Great exploration into the myth and its origin. However, I’m not sure how this relates to the first part of the book title: “The Last Deity.” This must be something to come in the next stories.
The main character, Nicole, is well-rounded and very likeable. She’s smart and empathetic. I think all the characters in the book worked well together to advance the storyline. The teenagers are mindful of their actions and do not act stupidly, which I appreciated. I found a lot of that happening in “Divergent,” which I was less impressed with because of how the characters acted in that book.
I thought the way Nicole explored and used her powers was fascinating. From the pencil drawings to the feathers to the bulbs lighting to threading the needle (you’ll get it when you read it), it was a great device to illustrate how Nicole’s abilities worked and how she was able to focus and control her powers.
Mr. Wong puts in many different plot threads, and I really enjoyed how they came together. This book is not focused on one element. It’s a book about character development more than extraordinary events. It explores how these events are dealt with by different character personalities in the book.
The pace of the book is great. The author is not afraid to take time to develop the plot threads. I really liked everything included in the book and the story climax. If anything, I wanted more historical visions, but the few used were intentionally and effectively placed. The story has some great emotional moments that resonate. It was fun, fascinating, and exciting. Excellent plot, characters, and historical foundations!
Mr. Wong, you need to write book 2 right now! I cannot wait to find out more about this “balancer” world and what Nicole learns next about her abilities! Get going man! I’m a big fan of this book and where the series is headed!
**I won this book in a Goodreads First Read giveaway. Thank you to Mr. Wong and Goodreads for this opportunity.**
April 27, 2016
I received my copy of Balancer by: Patrick Wong through a Goodreads Giveaway. So thank you Goodreads and Patrick Wong. This book was different from a lot of books I have read, however I enjoyed this story immensely. It is labeled as an Urban-Paranormal Young Adult novel, which is accurate. I will say that it was a bit mild on the paranormal compared to most of the books that I read in these genres, but not in a bad way. The book opens with two best friends, Amy Madigan and Nicole Aaronson, camping at Lake Fairfax celebrating the end of summer. When a wildfire breaks out at the campsite Amy and Nicole are staying at, they risk their lives to save a young girl and her dog. This creates a media frenzy centered on the girls who are hailed heroes. Nicole and Amy have very different personalities that complement each other well. They have a video blog that they post, which was started as a school project but was continued due to Amy’s desire to be noticed and popular and Nicole’s desire to make Amy happy. After the fire their blog becomes very popular due to their hero status. The fact that Nicole was the one carrying the young girl earns her the nickname SuperNix and as a she gets more attention from the media than Amy. Unfortunately this does not sit so well with Amy, and starts to form a rift between the girls or so it seems. Just when Nicole needs Amy the most a secret starts to pull them apart. Weird things that can’t be explained are happening around Nicole. Thankfully one of their most loyal followers Ben, who is, in Amy’s words, a “massive Nix fan” will help the girls put the pieces together. Ben Owens aka NewBenKenobi goes above and beyond with his research into the weird happenings going on since the wildfire. He becomes an asset that Nicole will need desperately. I don’t want to spoil the story for you, but this is definitely worth a read. Be warned I was not thrilled with the ending, I felt it left me hanging on the edge of my seat without a cushion. Oh wait I just found out this is going to be a series, now I get the cliffhanger. I still don’t like it but I accept that a bunch of authors leave unanswered questions to entice us to read the next book!
August 6, 2016
R2R (LoP) Balancer (The Final Deity)
I received a free copy, through LoP, in exchange for a review.
Best friends, Nicole & Amy have the best times together. They are always there for each other and have been since they were little kids. One night, while camping, a wildfire starts, changing both of their lives forever. Trying to find their way out of the inferno, that keeps creeping up around them, they find a dog who has been injured. They both try to get him to follow them, but he keeps going back to this log. Underneath it lies his owner, a little girl who has been crushed under it. The girls manage to rescue her and run for all of their lives. Little did they know that this was the moment that would change everything that have ever known. Nicole has a special power; to give and take life. But, with this new development, there are others out there, waiting for someone like her, to surface, so they can use her powers for unknown reasons. The race is on for Nicole.
'It was all about balance. Animal sacrifices had played such an important part in nearly every culture, and that in turn all seemed to point to a greater force out there that must be answered to and compensated. If there was only a fixed amount of life in the world, then it followed that each person would get a certain portion allotted - some more or less than others. In order to accommodate birth, there must be deaths. Even the seasons reflected it – how could there be a spring without a fall? Light without darkness?'
Another 5 star book! Everything about this story is great; very intense and still had goofy moments. The characters are very well fleshed out and overall the book is so much fun to read! Cannot wait to see what happens with Nicole and Amy.
I received a free copy, through LoP, in exchange for a review.
Best friends, Nicole & Amy have the best times together. They are always there for each other and have been since they were little kids. One night, while camping, a wildfire starts, changing both of their lives forever. Trying to find their way out of the inferno, that keeps creeping up around them, they find a dog who has been injured. They both try to get him to follow them, but he keeps going back to this log. Underneath it lies his owner, a little girl who has been crushed under it. The girls manage to rescue her and run for all of their lives. Little did they know that this was the moment that would change everything that have ever known. Nicole has a special power; to give and take life. But, with this new development, there are others out there, waiting for someone like her, to surface, so they can use her powers for unknown reasons. The race is on for Nicole.
'It was all about balance. Animal sacrifices had played such an important part in nearly every culture, and that in turn all seemed to point to a greater force out there that must be answered to and compensated. If there was only a fixed amount of life in the world, then it followed that each person would get a certain portion allotted - some more or less than others. In order to accommodate birth, there must be deaths. Even the seasons reflected it – how could there be a spring without a fall? Light without darkness?'
Another 5 star book! Everything about this story is great; very intense and still had goofy moments. The characters are very well fleshed out and overall the book is so much fun to read! Cannot wait to see what happens with Nicole and Amy.
April 17, 2014
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite
The Nano Review
Awesome, Awesome, Awesome
The Plot
Balancer by Patrick Wong starts off fast and exciting and doesn’t let up. Two best friends Nicole and Amy are on a camping trip that also doubles as the backdrop for their latest YouTube video while also serving as an excuse for Amy to ‘accidentally’ bump into her crush.
Things suddenly take a dangerous turn when a freak wildfire breaks out and the two girls are forced to run for their lives. Along the way they save the life of another girl. Later they learn that the girl has made a miraculous recovery from seemingly fatal injuries. Something is strange with Nicole as well and she soon discovers that she has the power to give and take life. It’s a gift that grants her extraordinary healing powers but at great cost.
It’s a power that’s beginning to get her noticed and when mysterious agents come knocking Nicole is going to have to figure out just who she can trust.
The Faves
I absolutely loved Balancer by Patrick Wong. It was awesome, amazing, spectacular as well as loads of other synonyms. The story was really interesting and unique and though Balancer was told primarily from Nicole's perspective both girls seemed really cool and fun.
I loved the plot which is a refreshing addition to the paranormal genre and Wong’s writing clips along smoothly and well.
I totally can’t wait for the next book in the Final Deity series and I'd recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal stories filled with cool female characters, shifty secret agents, an engaging mystery, laughter and a few tears (warning: keep some tissues handy).
Read it, make your friends read it, and cross your fingers for a movie.
The Nano Review
Awesome, Awesome, Awesome
The Plot
Balancer by Patrick Wong starts off fast and exciting and doesn’t let up. Two best friends Nicole and Amy are on a camping trip that also doubles as the backdrop for their latest YouTube video while also serving as an excuse for Amy to ‘accidentally’ bump into her crush.
Things suddenly take a dangerous turn when a freak wildfire breaks out and the two girls are forced to run for their lives. Along the way they save the life of another girl. Later they learn that the girl has made a miraculous recovery from seemingly fatal injuries. Something is strange with Nicole as well and she soon discovers that she has the power to give and take life. It’s a gift that grants her extraordinary healing powers but at great cost.
It’s a power that’s beginning to get her noticed and when mysterious agents come knocking Nicole is going to have to figure out just who she can trust.
The Faves
I absolutely loved Balancer by Patrick Wong. It was awesome, amazing, spectacular as well as loads of other synonyms. The story was really interesting and unique and though Balancer was told primarily from Nicole's perspective both girls seemed really cool and fun.
I loved the plot which is a refreshing addition to the paranormal genre and Wong’s writing clips along smoothly and well.
I totally can’t wait for the next book in the Final Deity series and I'd recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal stories filled with cool female characters, shifty secret agents, an engaging mystery, laughter and a few tears (warning: keep some tissues handy).
Read it, make your friends read it, and cross your fingers for a movie.
January 23, 2014
I received this book as an ARC here on Goodreads. I finished this last night and I am still on the fence about how I feel about this book. The story starts off with two teenage girls who are camping when a fire breaks out at the campground where they are. The fire is large and is closing in on them as they begin to try and escape. While running they come across a dog and a child who are both injured. The girls manage to get to safety and both the dog and the child seem to recover miracouesly from their injuries. The one girl, Nicole, is hailed a hero. Nicole and Amy sense that something is strange about how the dog and the child recovered so well.
Nicole begins to understand that she has some kind of power. She performs a few other acts of giving life to one thing and taking it from another. Towards the middle to end of the story she comes to learn that what she is, is called a Balancer. By this time she has attracted the attention of some not so nice people. The more she tries to stay under the radar and do good the more attention she attracts.
Balancer is a good read, but it seems to be missing something. The writing seemed a bit amateurish. What I mean by that is that when I was in high school I wrote like this, very simple and did not have a lot of depth. It was also predictable. I knew what was going to happen before it actually did. There were no surprise, no a-ha moments, and no "I didn't see that coming" moments. I am glad to hear that this will be part of a series. It is a fun read and I can't wait to see what's in store for Nicole and Amy in the next book.
Nicole begins to understand that she has some kind of power. She performs a few other acts of giving life to one thing and taking it from another. Towards the middle to end of the story she comes to learn that what she is, is called a Balancer. By this time she has attracted the attention of some not so nice people. The more she tries to stay under the radar and do good the more attention she attracts.
Balancer is a good read, but it seems to be missing something. The writing seemed a bit amateurish. What I mean by that is that when I was in high school I wrote like this, very simple and did not have a lot of depth. It was also predictable. I knew what was going to happen before it actually did. There were no surprise, no a-ha moments, and no "I didn't see that coming" moments. I am glad to hear that this will be part of a series. It is a fun read and I can't wait to see what's in store for Nicole and Amy in the next book.
December 18, 2014
This was a fantastic book. It was completely original and took me out of my element. I love the supernatural and I love it even more when someone comes out with something fresh. This book is so good I can look past the fact it’s a juvenile book, or a very young adult. I could see a middle school child reading this but not so much someone for high school or older.
Amy and Nicole are like any other teenager. Innocent and carefree. Nicole is a very selfless and relatable character. When put into a troubling situation she acts very adult like proving she is strong enough to handle whatever is thrown at her. Amy is a little less mature but at the same time she compliments Nicole’s character. They are opposites but more like ying and yang.
The one thing I didn’t particularly like about this one was how it jumped back and forth between characters. I had to pay extra attention when I came to a new chapter because it abruptly changes from one to the other. That was not enough to push me away from the book though. I still ended up loving it. The ending was unbelievable. I honestly never saw the betrayal coming let alone that one of the agents was a bad guy. I knew something was up with one of them but never guessed that.
Overall, the book was aimed towards a younger audience than me but I still enjoyed the entire thing and I am glad I got a chance to read this. I received this book from the author through Goodreads.com.
Read can be found here: http://tristasiegel.blogspot.com/2014...
Amy and Nicole are like any other teenager. Innocent and carefree. Nicole is a very selfless and relatable character. When put into a troubling situation she acts very adult like proving she is strong enough to handle whatever is thrown at her. Amy is a little less mature but at the same time she compliments Nicole’s character. They are opposites but more like ying and yang.
The one thing I didn’t particularly like about this one was how it jumped back and forth between characters. I had to pay extra attention when I came to a new chapter because it abruptly changes from one to the other. That was not enough to push me away from the book though. I still ended up loving it. The ending was unbelievable. I honestly never saw the betrayal coming let alone that one of the agents was a bad guy. I knew something was up with one of them but never guessed that.
Overall, the book was aimed towards a younger audience than me but I still enjoyed the entire thing and I am glad I got a chance to read this. I received this book from the author through Goodreads.com.
Read can be found here: http://tristasiegel.blogspot.com/2014...
December 11, 2013
NOTE: I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway, in exchange for my honest review.
For the first time reviewing a book, I find myself almost at a loss for words, in a good way. From the first page of this book I was pulled in and held down until I had something important to do, then I would immediately pick the book up and continue! Patrick Wong shows his strength as an author in this enthralling tale of a young girl and her friend coping not only with Nicole's abilities, but with the subtle and not so subtle challenges that would very possibly arise if such a thing would occur.
The story is fast paced and exciting from start to finish, tying in real life problems and familiar modern day reference to add a strong sense of relevance and believability throughout the tale. Balancer is funny, frightening, sad, exciting, and nearly any other emotion you can think of in between. Patrick Wong definitely shows his talents when he keeps you guessing on who in the story is trustworthy until the very end, and leaves you wanting more!
Patrick, I am hooked, and cannot wait for a sequel! Give the people what they want!
For the first time reviewing a book, I find myself almost at a loss for words, in a good way. From the first page of this book I was pulled in and held down until I had something important to do, then I would immediately pick the book up and continue! Patrick Wong shows his strength as an author in this enthralling tale of a young girl and her friend coping not only with Nicole's abilities, but with the subtle and not so subtle challenges that would very possibly arise if such a thing would occur.
The story is fast paced and exciting from start to finish, tying in real life problems and familiar modern day reference to add a strong sense of relevance and believability throughout the tale. Balancer is funny, frightening, sad, exciting, and nearly any other emotion you can think of in between. Patrick Wong definitely shows his talents when he keeps you guessing on who in the story is trustworthy until the very end, and leaves you wanting more!
Patrick, I am hooked, and cannot wait for a sequel! Give the people what they want!
July 27, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive this book in exchange for an honest review from the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com and the Author.
Did I like this book? I loved it!! The book had me from page one. As a matter of fact when I completed the book I immediately looked to see if there was a next book in the series....unfortunately there isn't one yet but I am certain there will be one, but not soon enough for me!! I want it now!!
I think this story would make an excellent movie. There are great characters. Amy and Nicole are best friends and just normal teenage girls, each with her own unique personality that compliment each other in the best ways. They find themselves thrown into a mystery that is bizarre and unbelievable and from that point on life, as they know it, changes drastically.
The story is fast paced and well written. If this is Peter Wongs first book I have to give him two thumbs up because this is an awesome story and shows a lot of imagination. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to read the Balancer....I loved it!
I would recommend this book to both young and older readers. I think it has something for everyone who likes paranormal stories.
Did I like this book? I loved it!! The book had me from page one. As a matter of fact when I completed the book I immediately looked to see if there was a next book in the series....unfortunately there isn't one yet but I am certain there will be one, but not soon enough for me!! I want it now!!
I think this story would make an excellent movie. There are great characters. Amy and Nicole are best friends and just normal teenage girls, each with her own unique personality that compliment each other in the best ways. They find themselves thrown into a mystery that is bizarre and unbelievable and from that point on life, as they know it, changes drastically.
The story is fast paced and well written. If this is Peter Wongs first book I have to give him two thumbs up because this is an awesome story and shows a lot of imagination. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to read the Balancer....I loved it!
I would recommend this book to both young and older readers. I think it has something for everyone who likes paranormal stories.
February 8, 2014
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book and I would like to thank LOP group of Goodreads for letting me review this book.
Well, I'm so sad to say that I didn't enjoy the book as much as I wanted to. /the story line is great and the concept is unique too but the execution wasn't good, I mean I didn't get satisfied by it.
The main problem was that the pacing was too slow for me and the events were dragged on for too long and so it became a boring experience for me. I liked the characters but Nicole felt a little off-beat, I mean that I couldn't connect with her properly and so she just didn't felt to be true which dimmed my excitement a bit.
The mystery part was good but the author couldn't keep up the suspense for long and slowly the major twists became quite predictable for me so I lacked interest in there as well. Over all a good read but not up to the mark. Hope to read many more fascinating novels from the author in recent future but for now I cannot give more than three stars to Balancer by Patrick Wong.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book and I would like to thank LOP group of Goodreads for letting me review this book.
Well, I'm so sad to say that I didn't enjoy the book as much as I wanted to. /the story line is great and the concept is unique too but the execution wasn't good, I mean I didn't get satisfied by it.
The main problem was that the pacing was too slow for me and the events were dragged on for too long and so it became a boring experience for me. I liked the characters but Nicole felt a little off-beat, I mean that I couldn't connect with her properly and so she just didn't felt to be true which dimmed my excitement a bit.
The mystery part was good but the author couldn't keep up the suspense for long and slowly the major twists became quite predictable for me so I lacked interest in there as well. Over all a good read but not up to the mark. Hope to read many more fascinating novels from the author in recent future but for now I cannot give more than three stars to Balancer by Patrick Wong.
March 9, 2014
I was given a free copy of the e-book in exchange for an honest review. The following review contains spoilers.
Rating 8 of 10
I really liked the book. It was captivating and had some original ideas.
I can honestly say that Nicole is probably in the top 10 of my favorite heroines. She kind, smart and resourceful. She also have some doubts and insecurities and that makes her even more resourceful.
At first I didn't have a very good opinion of Amy but that changed when she got sick. The trick with the hair was a great idea.
I didn't really liked Ben. He was some creepy stalker for me. I know he turned up to be an okay guy, but if I was on Nicole's place I would have ran as far away from him as possible. He would have been the last person to ask for help.
Agent Bishop thought, can easily become another favorite of mine. I want to see more of him to make a decision about it.
The villains are not very good seen in that book yet. Carter made me suspicious from the beginning but not overly so. We still need to see the professor.
Interesting, fast read, the books raises a lot of questions, gives some answers and I really want to read the next.
Rating 8 of 10
I really liked the book. It was captivating and had some original ideas.
I can honestly say that Nicole is probably in the top 10 of my favorite heroines. She kind, smart and resourceful. She also have some doubts and insecurities and that makes her even more resourceful.
At first I didn't have a very good opinion of Amy but that changed when she got sick. The trick with the hair was a great idea.
I didn't really liked Ben. He was some creepy stalker for me. I know he turned up to be an okay guy, but if I was on Nicole's place I would have ran as far away from him as possible. He would have been the last person to ask for help.
Agent Bishop thought, can easily become another favorite of mine. I want to see more of him to make a decision about it.
The villains are not very good seen in that book yet. Carter made me suspicious from the beginning but not overly so. We still need to see the professor.
Interesting, fast read, the books raises a lot of questions, gives some answers and I really want to read the next.
September 29, 2022
First off, I'd like to note that I received this book in a first-reads giveaway here on goodreads. Oh my goodness, this book was absolutely fantastically awesome. It took my breath away. The only reason I put the book down for as long as I did was because I had some personal things to take care of or I would have finished it in one sitting. I can't get over how much I loved this. This is the best book I have read all year! I mean, I was expecting it to be good and the cover was creepy and awesome but I was surprised. I feel like I'm rambling because I'm still riding that "just finished an awesome book high" and all the coffee I drank trying to stay awake to finish it. It's almost 7 in the morning lol so I'm sorry if I don't make a lot of sense. It had me laughing and crying and getting all emotional. This book was like riding a new roller coaster for the first time. I absolutely cannot wait for the next one. I'll probably fix my review again later on when I'm not so jittery but this will have to do for now so that I don't forget!
February 22, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. The author pulls you into the story right away and I didn't want to put it down. It has a great suspenseful plot without being predictable. I love the storyline and I don't typically like the fantasy/paranormal genre. The idea of a balancer, a person who can both give life and take it away, but has to do one to achieve the other is unique and interesting and the historical elements are a nice touch. The characters who are not your typical annoying teenagers were funny, real, and believable. I will definitely read the second book when it comes out. The only critique I have is on the writing style which is why I gave it 4 stars. The flow is a bit choppy, but it didn't prevent me from enjoying it. Lastly, I love the cover which is a perfect representation of the story. The cover would have grabbed my attention at the book store and I would have read the back just for that reason.
I received a copy through a Goodreads giveaway and I would like to thank Patrick Wong and Goodreads for the opportunity to read this book.
I received a copy through a Goodreads giveaway and I would like to thank Patrick Wong and Goodreads for the opportunity to read this book.
April 6, 2015
Patrick Wong’s Balancer is a fast paced and inventive addition to the Young Adult Paranormal space. This well written first novel portrays the confusion and impetuousness teenagers through the story of Nix and her BFF, Ames. When Nix suddenly develops a supernatural ability to cure, she finds it comes at a price. By turns charming and thoughtful, Balancer explores the tension between having the ability to act and having the right to act.
The only flaw in my mind is that the story opens with 2 high school seniors camping alone. Not a lot of parents would go along with that and the way Nix‘s and Ames’ parents are portrayed, they wouldn’t. That said, the story moves along quickly and believably after that. Sometimes uncomfortably so as good teens make bad decisions. Played out against the backdrop of Metropolitan Washington DC, the action includes the FBI, mysterious academics and a senator’s son it contains all the elements of an excellent suspense story. I’m looking forward to the sequel.
The only flaw in my mind is that the story opens with 2 high school seniors camping alone. Not a lot of parents would go along with that and the way Nix‘s and Ames’ parents are portrayed, they wouldn’t. That said, the story moves along quickly and believably after that. Sometimes uncomfortably so as good teens make bad decisions. Played out against the backdrop of Metropolitan Washington DC, the action includes the FBI, mysterious academics and a senator’s son it contains all the elements of an excellent suspense story. I’m looking forward to the sequel.
January 31, 2014
I would like to begin by saying I was first taken by the cover. As a children's librarian I thought this was a cover that would catch the eye of a student. I especially liked the theme of this book. This girl must struggle with the dilemma of taking something away to give to someone else. Throughout the book she discovers more ways to use her powers. I couldn't put this book down and found myself right there in the story struggling right along with the main character. I thought the writing was spot on for middle school and high school readers. It was not to complicated but challenging enough that the student would stay with the story and be engaged. The end took a surprising twist that I did not see coming. I cannot wait for the sequel. I cannot wait to see what comes next from this author!
December 4, 2013
I received this from a Goodreads giveaway and somehow ended up reading it all in less than a day, so it's a bit of a quick read.
That being said, I liked the relationship between the two main characters (Amy and Nicole) and that the book was more focused on their friendship rather than them swooning over one guy or another. I thought the character of Ben was a bit under-developed and he was just thrown in there as an afterthought.
Plot-wise, there weren't too many twists and turns but I enjoyed it.
Also, the cover makes it seem way creepier than it is.
That being said, I liked the relationship between the two main characters (Amy and Nicole) and that the book was more focused on their friendship rather than them swooning over one guy or another. I thought the character of Ben was a bit under-developed and he was just thrown in there as an afterthought.
Plot-wise, there weren't too many twists and turns but I enjoyed it.
Also, the cover makes it seem way creepier than it is.
November 2, 2013
Very entertaining story with some pretty wild ideas! Great characters that you find yourself cheering for as the story progresses through its plot twists and turns. The pace is good, it never gets bogged down where you feel like nothing is happening, but also is not rushed.
Can't wait to read the sequel to this book, which I hope comes out soon. It would be a terrible shame if this story is not continued, because there's so much potential for this to be a really exciting series!
Can't wait to read the sequel to this book, which I hope comes out soon. It would be a terrible shame if this story is not continued, because there's so much potential for this to be a really exciting series!
December 22, 2014
Follow Nicole as she leads the reader through an amazing journey to self-discovery. Through a series of strange events that all seem to correspond with Nicole, Patrick creates an interesting twist on an age-old concept. He continues the twist, giving it a whole new look, while making it completely believable. I loved this story and I thought it was extremely creative and definitely left me thinking. Excellent work.
March 28, 2014
I was very lucky to have snagged this amazing book from the author himself through goodreads. I am so very thankful to him for just writing this story. He has a made this story to where you don't want to put it down. The characters are well thought out along with the story line. Really hoping Mr. Wong is working on book two.:)
September 5, 2014
The beginning made me just be thrilled to figure what happens next.
I really like the curious boy that just kept going and finding stuff for these girls.
So, it's pretty much present because of youtube, facebook, etc.
So... it's a good book. If you're into reading books about strange powers, this would be the book for you to pick up.
I really like the curious boy that just kept going and finding stuff for these girls.
So, it's pretty much present because of youtube, facebook, etc.
So... it's a good book. If you're into reading books about strange powers, this would be the book for you to pick up.
December 3, 2013
I enjoy reading unusual stories, and this had me captivated from the first page! The writing was a stirring mixture of exciting fantasy and dark reality. A read that was impossible to lay down until the last sentence was read!! I'll be waiting for more from this author with great enthusiasm! Nikki_McBride01@yahoo.com
January 1, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The writing is amazing, putting you right there in the story. Such an unique book, well fleshed out characters, and an original plot. Very descriptive action sequences that put you in the moment, and the flow was great. I would definitely recommend this book. I received this book for free through a Goodreads First Reads give away.
February 16, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal LOP). Very creative and imaginative, storyline was great. I liked the way the story didn't take long to pick up and become suspenseful. You get a chance throughout the story to get to know the characters. Patrick Wong's writing is excellent and I can't wait to read other books written by him. Definitly a must read.
December 6, 2013
It is a good, creative story. It is well-written and the story-line flowed well. That being said, I do have to admit that I found the ending to be a bit disappointing. Overall, I would have to rate it 5-stars.
March 5, 2014
I absolutely loved this book! I burned the midnight oil I was so sucked in!
This is a very creative book, and I kept reading on because the suspense was killing me.
I don't believe in spoilers in a review so I'll just say this book does not disappoint!
Would recommend!
This is a very creative book, and I kept reading on because the suspense was killing me.
I don't believe in spoilers in a review so I'll just say this book does not disappoint!
Would recommend!
July 31, 2014
I cant handle the ending. I need the next book now!! This book kept me on edge, questioning things, and thinking about it when I wasn't actually reading it. I highly recommend this one!
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