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The Desert Series #1
Mystical High
In Mystekal, a small, dying town in the Southern California desert, only 75 students attend the old, sometimes creepy high school dubbed "Mystical High," where strange things have been known to happen. Jessie Dalworth and Jinxsy Patterson are juniors and lifelong best friends. At home, Jessie deals with the pain of an absentee mother who has abandoned the family for the lure of Hollywood; Jinxsy contends with a 17th "birthday present" she never wanted or expected.
Meanwhile, at school, the unexplained activity begins to escalate when Jinxsy keeps seeing a long-haired guy in the hallway checking her out. Jessie can't see him, but her younger brother, River, can.
Then, in English class, a stapler mysteriously flies off teacher Eve Carrow's desk, hitting a student in the face who has just mouthed off to her. The beloved teacher is in the unenviable position of having her brute of a father as principal, so she hates sending any student to his office. As Principal Ernest Carrow begins to terrorize Eve and others more openly, something or someone unseen decides that it's payback time.
School is getting stranger, and Jinxsy and Jessie are faced with mind-boggling changes in their home lives that complicate everything. When a string of shocking events expose explosive secrets, decades-long mysteries are finally revealed.
CONTENT WARNING: Mild sexual content and non-gratuitous profanity. Recommended age: 14+
Meanwhile, at school, the unexplained activity begins to escalate when Jinxsy keeps seeing a long-haired guy in the hallway checking her out. Jessie can't see him, but her younger brother, River, can.
Then, in English class, a stapler mysteriously flies off teacher Eve Carrow's desk, hitting a student in the face who has just mouthed off to her. The beloved teacher is in the unenviable position of having her brute of a father as principal, so she hates sending any student to his office. As Principal Ernest Carrow begins to terrorize Eve and others more openly, something or someone unseen decides that it's payback time.
School is getting stranger, and Jinxsy and Jessie are faced with mind-boggling changes in their home lives that complicate everything. When a string of shocking events expose explosive secrets, decades-long mysteries are finally revealed.
CONTENT WARNING: Mild sexual content and non-gratuitous profanity. Recommended age: 14+
255 pages, Paperback
First published October 14, 2013
22 people are currently reading
600 people want to read
About the author
Lisette Brodey
20 books255 followersLisette was born and raised in the Philadelphia area. She spent ten years in New York City, and now resides in Los Angeles.
She’s a multigenre author of fifteen books: Crooked Moon (General/Literary Fiction); Squalor, New Mexico (Coming-of-Age/Literary Fiction); Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! (Women's Fiction/RomCom), The Desert Series: Mystical High; Desert Star; and Drawn Apart (YA paranormal), Barrie Hill Reunion (Literary Fiction); Hotel Obscure (themed short stories, Literary Fiction); Love, Look Away (Women's Fiction/RomCom), The Sum of our Sorrows (Contemporary Fiction), The Waiting House: A Novel in Stories (Literary Fiction), All That Was Taken (Contemporary Fiction), Twice a Broken Breath (suspense), What the Years Remember, and Too Far Standing Still.
In addition to her fifteen books, two of Lisette’s short stories are published in an anthology: Triptychs (Book 3, The Mind’s Eye Series.)
She’s a multigenre author of fifteen books: Crooked Moon (General/Literary Fiction); Squalor, New Mexico (Coming-of-Age/Literary Fiction); Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! (Women's Fiction/RomCom), The Desert Series: Mystical High; Desert Star; and Drawn Apart (YA paranormal), Barrie Hill Reunion (Literary Fiction); Hotel Obscure (themed short stories, Literary Fiction); Love, Look Away (Women's Fiction/RomCom), The Sum of our Sorrows (Contemporary Fiction), The Waiting House: A Novel in Stories (Literary Fiction), All That Was Taken (Contemporary Fiction), Twice a Broken Breath (suspense), What the Years Remember, and Too Far Standing Still.
In addition to her fifteen books, two of Lisette’s short stories are published in an anthology: Triptychs (Book 3, The Mind’s Eye Series.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 2, 2014
Although I'm probably not the target audience for this young adult novel, I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it to young and old alike.
I'm a big fan of Lisette Brodey's writing. I'm never disappointed by her books and it's rare to find an author who has the talent to produce brilliant books consistently.
In Mystical High, we meet Jinxsy and Jessie, best friends who live in Mystekal, a small town in California. Because of the eerie and strange goings-on at the local school, it has been nicknamed 'Mystical High'. Are there ghosts at the school, or is there some other explanation for what is happening? This is what Jessie and Jinxsy are keen to find out.
The school's head teacher Ernest Carrow is an evil man, feared by all, including his daughter Eve, who is one of the teachers at the school.
While Jessie and Jinxsy try to find out what's going on at the school, they discover many things about themselves and the plot unravels to reveal a history that no one would have ever expected.
This is an intricately woven tale that is masterfully written. It must have been a difficult book to write as there are many characters and many twists and turns.
One of this author's talents is for writing realistic and complex characters.
This novel covers subjects such as friendship, romance, the paranormal, dysfuntional families, secrets, lies, and so much more.
If you like to get lost in a good book, then this is for you. My reading time is limited, but I found myself eager to read on and unwilling to put this book down. It is a perfect mystery that will keep you guessing.
I'm a big fan of Lisette Brodey's writing. I'm never disappointed by her books and it's rare to find an author who has the talent to produce brilliant books consistently.
In Mystical High, we meet Jinxsy and Jessie, best friends who live in Mystekal, a small town in California. Because of the eerie and strange goings-on at the local school, it has been nicknamed 'Mystical High'. Are there ghosts at the school, or is there some other explanation for what is happening? This is what Jessie and Jinxsy are keen to find out.
The school's head teacher Ernest Carrow is an evil man, feared by all, including his daughter Eve, who is one of the teachers at the school.
While Jessie and Jinxsy try to find out what's going on at the school, they discover many things about themselves and the plot unravels to reveal a history that no one would have ever expected.
This is an intricately woven tale that is masterfully written. It must have been a difficult book to write as there are many characters and many twists and turns.
One of this author's talents is for writing realistic and complex characters.
This novel covers subjects such as friendship, romance, the paranormal, dysfuntional families, secrets, lies, and so much more.
If you like to get lost in a good book, then this is for you. My reading time is limited, but I found myself eager to read on and unwilling to put this book down. It is a perfect mystery that will keep you guessing.
November 14, 2013
It is an unique story, full of mysteries and clues. What I liked most about this book are the characters. Amazing! I loved them all. I absolutely love the fact that they are just normal people. It’s not only about these “normal people”, it is the way the author described them. They have normal problems, and sometimes they ignore the paranormal happenings to focus on their personal problems. And this is how people would really react. These characters were so deep, and well described, with so much history behind them, so much secrets, that they felt so real to me. I became very attached to them.
The author didn’t lose the book’s fear factor. It was still there, even in normal situations. Sometimes I felt goose bumps on my skin, while reading it.
When I first got it, I didn’t except to be that good. Seriously there’s nothing negative about it. Lisette Brodey managed to impress me! Good Job! I am not someone, who gets impressed easily.
Now let’s give this book those five stars he deserves!
The author didn’t lose the book’s fear factor. It was still there, even in normal situations. Sometimes I felt goose bumps on my skin, while reading it.
When I first got it, I didn’t except to be that good. Seriously there’s nothing negative about it. Lisette Brodey managed to impress me! Good Job! I am not someone, who gets impressed easily.
Now let’s give this book those five stars he deserves!
August 11, 2016
Strange Happenings in a Town Called Mystekal
Lisette Brodey has once again created a captivating and highly imaginative book with her first instalment in The Desert Series, Mystical High. Able to combine mystery, real-life issues, and paranormal activities guaranteed me to keep turning the pages. The novel centres on the two main characters, best friends Jessie and Jinxsy, as they struggle with family dramas, strange happenings, and so much more.
The author’s writing is superb, enabling (as a reader) to feel the emotions of her well-developed characters. In my opinion, the finely polished dialogue distinguishes her quality writing style.
I am looking forward to reading the next instalment in this fascinating trilogy. I highly recommend Mystical High for all readers who enjoy quality fiction.
Lisette Brodey has once again created a captivating and highly imaginative book with her first instalment in The Desert Series, Mystical High. Able to combine mystery, real-life issues, and paranormal activities guaranteed me to keep turning the pages. The novel centres on the two main characters, best friends Jessie and Jinxsy, as they struggle with family dramas, strange happenings, and so much more.
The author’s writing is superb, enabling (as a reader) to feel the emotions of her well-developed characters. In my opinion, the finely polished dialogue distinguishes her quality writing style.
I am looking forward to reading the next instalment in this fascinating trilogy. I highly recommend Mystical High for all readers who enjoy quality fiction.
March 14, 2014
I sometime read a book from Young Adult section. When I received this book, I started to reading it. I like the how the writer brought home life problems into the characters lives. She made the characters seem almost real. I laughed at some parts of the book and some I could wait to read what happened next.
I hope to read more books by Lisette Brodey.
I hope to read more books by Lisette Brodey.
December 3, 2013
Great read. unexpected turns, exciting. keeps ya on the edge with the happenings. really enjoyable.
If they have another drawing I encourage all to enter.
If they have another drawing I encourage all to enter.
February 11, 2014
Mystical high (The Desert Series, #1)
Mystical High is a well-written, absorbing paranormal story. The plot is original and fascinating. The characters Jinxsy and Jessie struggle with true-to-life family problems. They are likable with real teenage drama, best friends indeed. Add a mysterious young man with long dark hair (that only few can see), flying objects, a brute for a principal and you have the makings of a perfect read. Filled with secrets, laugh-out-loud moments, twists and turns that keep you saying just one more page! Y/A Adults and paranormal lovers will enjoy their experience in the mysterious town of Mystekal.
Lisette Brodey knows how to grab the readers attention. She brings her characters to life, as if they are real people, or even friends I know or would enjoy to hang out with. Jinxsy and Jessie are typical teens. I being a mother of seven daughters, got the chance to see things from their point of view, and she got their (teen) personalities spot on! I look forward to the next in the series. I highly recommend to Y/A and Adult readers.
I also recommend Squalor, New Mexico, Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! & Crooked Moon
Thank you to my wonderful daughter for this wonderful early Christmas gift Mystical High!!
Mystical High is a well-written, absorbing paranormal story. The plot is original and fascinating. The characters Jinxsy and Jessie struggle with true-to-life family problems. They are likable with real teenage drama, best friends indeed. Add a mysterious young man with long dark hair (that only few can see), flying objects, a brute for a principal and you have the makings of a perfect read. Filled with secrets, laugh-out-loud moments, twists and turns that keep you saying just one more page! Y/A Adults and paranormal lovers will enjoy their experience in the mysterious town of Mystekal.
Lisette Brodey knows how to grab the readers attention. She brings her characters to life, as if they are real people, or even friends I know or would enjoy to hang out with. Jinxsy and Jessie are typical teens. I being a mother of seven daughters, got the chance to see things from their point of view, and she got their (teen) personalities spot on! I look forward to the next in the series. I highly recommend to Y/A and Adult readers.
I also recommend Squalor, New Mexico, Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! & Crooked Moon
Thank you to my wonderful daughter for this wonderful early Christmas gift Mystical High!!
March 4, 2014
I have read all of Lisette Brodey's novels. I guess when you're on to a good thing, stick to it. And although her genres vary, I know they're going to be high-quality, character-driven novels with loads of hidden clues that all mean something further within the pages. Mystical High was no exception.
Mystical High is very real and makes you think. Paranormal events happen to people all the time, and I think that is what I really loved about this book. I was there, or should I say, I felt I was there. When I say this book makes you think, I mean, there are times when I had to step back and mull over what had just taken place and how I would have reacted? Sometimes, I felt, as a teen, I would have handled things differently, but then, I know we all deal with each situation as best we can and I guess it is the differences that help us become more understanding towards others.
From the very start of Mystical High, you know there is going to be a whole lot happening, and really, it never stops. From the terrorizing principal, to the strange and unexplainable events that happen in school, and also in this small desert town. These kids have to deal with, not only, school life, but friends, relationships, and their families. Life isn't always smooth sailing, but it is the ripples that mould us as adults. I can't wait for the second book in the series. I hope a few of my favourites return!
One of Brodey's traits is to leave you pining for more. Such a great character writer. Loved it! A BIG 5 Stars from me.
Mystical High is very real and makes you think. Paranormal events happen to people all the time, and I think that is what I really loved about this book. I was there, or should I say, I felt I was there. When I say this book makes you think, I mean, there are times when I had to step back and mull over what had just taken place and how I would have reacted? Sometimes, I felt, as a teen, I would have handled things differently, but then, I know we all deal with each situation as best we can and I guess it is the differences that help us become more understanding towards others.
From the very start of Mystical High, you know there is going to be a whole lot happening, and really, it never stops. From the terrorizing principal, to the strange and unexplainable events that happen in school, and also in this small desert town. These kids have to deal with, not only, school life, but friends, relationships, and their families. Life isn't always smooth sailing, but it is the ripples that mould us as adults. I can't wait for the second book in the series. I hope a few of my favourites return!
One of Brodey's traits is to leave you pining for more. Such a great character writer. Loved it! A BIG 5 Stars from me.
July 24, 2016
Mystical High is a landscape for the unexpected. Jessie and Jinxsy (great name) are endearing and believable. Two teenagers, well-portrayed and endearing due to their raw energy and endearing confusion, find a bond that is strengthened by their individual battles as well as the unexpected and odd occurrences around them. The characters come to life immediately, the dialogue is strong (quick-moving) and the story is dynamic. I remember watching Eerie Indiana as a kid, remember being obsessed with the Twilight Zone, and this book brought back the fun and mystery; more, it brought back that sense of innocent curiosity that I had, quite honestly, forgotten about.
July 29, 2016
Mystical High by Lisette Brodey is a wonderful paranormal story for teens and adults alike. Ms. Brodey has written a story that provides dialogue that encompasses how teenagers would really talk to each other and I found that it made the story easy to relate to, even though I'm no longer a teen. There are many characters that are dealing with their own personal struggles yet their lives are forever intertwined. There are twists along that way that I wasn't expecting and it kept me guessing throughout the pages. Looking forward to the second book in this series. Fun read!
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December 4, 2013
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February 4, 2018
Jessie and Jinxsy are just trying to get through their junior year of high school in the dying town of Mystekal. Jessie is just starting to build up some normalcy after her mother Arielle's abrupt departure for Hollywood (and a sleazy producer) and she thinks she's ready to start dating thoughtful (and cute) Cade. Now if only her aunt and brother River could be a little less eccentric, home life might not seem quite so bizarre.
But bizarre is just beginning for Jinxsy, who finds out a terrible secret the day she turns seventeen that turns her life upside down. But that's nothing compared to what she runs into after she tries to run away, and that doesn't stack up to what saves her after.
What does this have to do with the boy only Jinxsy and River can see, why is their English teacher Miss Carrow starting to get increasingly nervous around the girls and what finally pushes Jessie's aunt over the edge? And is Arielle's return going to mean life's going to get easier for Jessie, or is that going to make everything much worse?
While I don't read a lot of YA or paranormal, I found this short novel engrossing and finished the book in a day. Throughout the story, I was deeply impressed by the themes of second chances, complicated motivations and secret identities. While I could figure out pretty quickly who some of the mysterious characters were, I was genuinely surprised by others. The only disappointments I had were that the villain's motivations weren't explained as thoroughly as the other characters (but I wonder if this will be addressed in future installments) and that the ending wrapped up a little too neatly. However, I was still excited by the prospects that were hinted at for the characters and the town as a whole. I look forward to reading the next installment.
Recommended for fans of YA and paranormal.
But bizarre is just beginning for Jinxsy, who finds out a terrible secret the day she turns seventeen that turns her life upside down. But that's nothing compared to what she runs into after she tries to run away, and that doesn't stack up to what saves her after.
What does this have to do with the boy only Jinxsy and River can see, why is their English teacher Miss Carrow starting to get increasingly nervous around the girls and what finally pushes Jessie's aunt over the edge? And is Arielle's return going to mean life's going to get easier for Jessie, or is that going to make everything much worse?
While I don't read a lot of YA or paranormal, I found this short novel engrossing and finished the book in a day. Throughout the story, I was deeply impressed by the themes of second chances, complicated motivations and secret identities. While I could figure out pretty quickly who some of the mysterious characters were, I was genuinely surprised by others. The only disappointments I had were that the villain's motivations weren't explained as thoroughly as the other characters (but I wonder if this will be addressed in future installments) and that the ending wrapped up a little too neatly. However, I was still excited by the prospects that were hinted at for the characters and the town as a whole. I look forward to reading the next installment.
Recommended for fans of YA and paranormal.
March 23, 2016
Mystical High is a terrific read for both young adults, and old adults (like me). At first, the story seems firmly set in the real world, but bit by bit Lisette Brodey skilfully reveals the paranormal twist of the tale beneath and within that real world. Both parts of the story - the real and the paranormal - work very well, and they intertwine in such a way that they feed and enhance the drama of the other. The two main characters really pulled me into the story from the first chapter: Jesse and Jinxsy are funny, troubled, strong and sometimes weak, foolish, and sometimes wise - very much like real teenagers. It was a joy to follow them through the book.
I loved a lot of things about this book, but one thing I really appreciated was the complexity of the relationships, both the romantic relationships, and the relationships within families and between friends. There are shades of gray in everyone, and people's motives and reasons for what they do and who they love are multi-faceted and complex. No easy solutions or glossy romances here! Instead, the characters, the way they speak, and the problems they face feel as though they're taken from the real world (minus some spirits and ghosts, perhaps!).
Mystical High hooked me from the first chapter, and towards the end it had me racing to find out what the heck was happening, and what was going to happen, to all the people involved. Lisette Brodey's prose is well-crafted, often funny (she's got an ear for dialogue), and she keeps you interested through the twists and turns of the story. A highly recommended read!
I loved a lot of things about this book, but one thing I really appreciated was the complexity of the relationships, both the romantic relationships, and the relationships within families and between friends. There are shades of gray in everyone, and people's motives and reasons for what they do and who they love are multi-faceted and complex. No easy solutions or glossy romances here! Instead, the characters, the way they speak, and the problems they face feel as though they're taken from the real world (minus some spirits and ghosts, perhaps!).
Mystical High hooked me from the first chapter, and towards the end it had me racing to find out what the heck was happening, and what was going to happen, to all the people involved. Lisette Brodey's prose is well-crafted, often funny (she's got an ear for dialogue), and she keeps you interested through the twists and turns of the story. A highly recommended read!
October 11, 2014
Jessie Dalworth and Jinxsy Patterson are best friends living in a small, California desert town called Mystekal. They attend the local high school, nicknamed Mystical High, and are both dealing with the usual teenage struggles surrounding boys, family, and self-identity.
Jessie lives with her father and brother, while her mother chases her dream of becoming an actress in Hollywood; and Jinxsy -- who appears to have the perfect parents -- is about to discover a deep, dark family secret. But when their crises are overshadowed by strange events and sightings at Mystekal High, it becomes clear how the school earned its nickname.
What is lurking in the hallways, and what does this strange presence really want with the students and faculty? The mystery extends beyond the walls of the high school, through the small desert town, and into the surrounding communities as the story unfolds.
Mystical High offers up a suspenseful and action-packed paranormal tale! The main and secondary characters are well developed, with plenty of angst. And although there are a lot of characters (and a lot going on from one page to the next) I never felt lost or confused. The high quality writing, and well-paced plot made it easy to follow. I thought I knew what was going to happen, but the twists and turns kept me guessing till the end!
Note: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Jessie lives with her father and brother, while her mother chases her dream of becoming an actress in Hollywood; and Jinxsy -- who appears to have the perfect parents -- is about to discover a deep, dark family secret. But when their crises are overshadowed by strange events and sightings at Mystekal High, it becomes clear how the school earned its nickname.
What is lurking in the hallways, and what does this strange presence really want with the students and faculty? The mystery extends beyond the walls of the high school, through the small desert town, and into the surrounding communities as the story unfolds.
Mystical High offers up a suspenseful and action-packed paranormal tale! The main and secondary characters are well developed, with plenty of angst. And although there are a lot of characters (and a lot going on from one page to the next) I never felt lost or confused. The high quality writing, and well-paced plot made it easy to follow. I thought I knew what was going to happen, but the twists and turns kept me guessing till the end!
Note: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2018
Clearly not a book for me
I think this book had potential, but I just got annoyed with it. There seemed to be so much going on and very few answers to why. I didn't feel like the story ran smoothly because of this. Every character had some major drama happening and it was too much. But in saying that, it wasn't for me but it doesn't mean others won't like it. Give it a go
I think this book had potential, but I just got annoyed with it. There seemed to be so much going on and very few answers to why. I didn't feel like the story ran smoothly because of this. Every character had some major drama happening and it was too much. But in saying that, it wasn't for me but it doesn't mean others won't like it. Give it a go
March 22, 2014
This young adult paranormal story is so cleverly crafted that the twists and turns kept me riveted until the end! Mystical High’s appeal is also for young-at-heart adult readers like me. The plot is chockablock full of subterfuge within scenes that hooked me, kept me guessing even as they offered up tidbits to explain the mystery underlying a slew of unexplained ghostly activities. The absolute truth to explain the phenomena eluded me until the end – and I so enjoyed the chase!
The storyline is exciting and captivating, spiced with just enough quirky to lighten the intensity. Skillfully woven into the story are themes relevant to not only teens, but also to parents and teachers alike. We see characters as they develop coping skills to handle bullying, to set dating and friendship boundaries, and to foster better parental communication. I was fascinated by the author’s scripting of a principal who is belittling and toxic juxtaposed against a teacher that nourishes the best in students. The scenes that depict the principal’s comeuppance are electrifying.
It was no surprise to me that, once again, I resonated with the author’s characters, captivated by their authentic, lively dialogues. Ms. Brodey has an exceptional ability to wield her words into dialogues that are revealing as well as enlivening; they add depth to the personalities of her characters, serving to bring her stories vividly to life. In Mystical High, the main characters, Jessie and Jinxsy, took me into their struggles, even the difficulties inherent in maintaining their lifelong friendship. One friend must cope with the pain and confusion caused by an absentee parent; the other falls apart yet discovers the strength to deal with parental secrets.
Mystical High was a novel to savor, one of my ‘do-not-want-it-to-end’ stories – I am so looking forward to book two!
October 24, 2014
***An enlightening and delightful book for all ages***
Mystical High is a YA paranormal novel, a genre outside of what I normally read, and so I was pleasantly surprised by how easily I related to the characters and their lives.
Two best friends, seventeen years of age, Jessie and Jinxy, are each met with enormous challenges in their seemingly dead-end town of Mystekal. As if the normal course of teenage angst is not enough, there is also something surreal amidst. This thread of mystery weaves the story together and is what captivates the reader's imagination throughout.
With my high school days long behind me, Ms. Brodey was nonetheless able to transport me back to that time. By eliciting feelings in her characters of insecurity, rebellion, and jealousy, her story reminded me of how difficult it was to be young! The author portrays youth--not as a caricature, but as thoughtful beings who must make tough decisions in the course of growing up. She has real empathy for her characters and it shows.
This is not just a fluffy book about girlfriend/boyfriend woes or family problems. Mystical High delves into deeper issues, and it does so with the pervasive theme of 'fate.' The story is strongly steeped in a sense of justice, and I believe the author purposely chose to mention three books in her novel that also have similar themes, namely: To Kill a Mockingbird; The Great Gatsby; and The Catcher in the Rye.
I found this introduction to Ms. Brodey's writing enlightening and was delighted to find she writes in numerous genres. I am definitely looking forward to more of her work.
Mystical High is a YA paranormal novel, a genre outside of what I normally read, and so I was pleasantly surprised by how easily I related to the characters and their lives.
Two best friends, seventeen years of age, Jessie and Jinxy, are each met with enormous challenges in their seemingly dead-end town of Mystekal. As if the normal course of teenage angst is not enough, there is also something surreal amidst. This thread of mystery weaves the story together and is what captivates the reader's imagination throughout.
With my high school days long behind me, Ms. Brodey was nonetheless able to transport me back to that time. By eliciting feelings in her characters of insecurity, rebellion, and jealousy, her story reminded me of how difficult it was to be young! The author portrays youth--not as a caricature, but as thoughtful beings who must make tough decisions in the course of growing up. She has real empathy for her characters and it shows.
This is not just a fluffy book about girlfriend/boyfriend woes or family problems. Mystical High delves into deeper issues, and it does so with the pervasive theme of 'fate.' The story is strongly steeped in a sense of justice, and I believe the author purposely chose to mention three books in her novel that also have similar themes, namely: To Kill a Mockingbird; The Great Gatsby; and The Catcher in the Rye.
I found this introduction to Ms. Brodey's writing enlightening and was delighted to find she writes in numerous genres. I am definitely looking forward to more of her work.
December 10, 2014
I was given a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
After a chapter into the story, I had to go back and reread it because I had no idea what I had just read. I thought it was because I was tired, but it turned out to be the way it was written. There are a lot of characters and they're a bit confusing to keep up with because of how quickly the focus shifts between them.
This book has an interesting concept, but the dialogue was unrealistic and the characters were not believable. Even though there were many times I had to put the book down because of how silly it was, I was interested in what was going to happen next.
I will say this though; the editing is fine. I didn't catch any typos or misuse of grammar.
2/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/m...
After a chapter into the story, I had to go back and reread it because I had no idea what I had just read. I thought it was because I was tired, but it turned out to be the way it was written. There are a lot of characters and they're a bit confusing to keep up with because of how quickly the focus shifts between them.
This book has an interesting concept, but the dialogue was unrealistic and the characters were not believable. Even though there were many times I had to put the book down because of how silly it was, I was interested in what was going to happen next.
I will say this though; the editing is fine. I didn't catch any typos or misuse of grammar.
2/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/m...
August 26, 2014
I truly enjoyed this story.Mystical High is a very obsorbing paranormal read. We meet Jinxsy and Jessie who are best friends they struggle with true to life family issues.I loved all the characters it's hard to pick a favorite.They have the usual teenage drama in their life's. Throw in a mysterious boy with long dark hair who few can see, a mean principal, flying objects and this is a perfect paranormal read. With plenty of secrets , laugh out loud moments , and lots of twists and turns .A great read for all ages y/a to adults. Fans of paranormal will love their experience in the mysterious town of Mystecal.
September 20, 2017
Jessie and Jinx are best friends in a small desert town. They are high school students whose lives are about to change forever. The town, Mystekal is dying of neglect fueled by intergenerational secrets. While some know how dark those secrets are, the web of lies is starting to unravel. Mystekal High is down to its last 75 students, ruled over by a sadistic principal and haunted by its past - and apparitions only a few of the students see. There are many themes in this book; evil and redemption, and the loss of motherhood and identify. Mystical High is a character driven drama and mystery that will engross and move you. This is the first book in Listette Brodey's YA Desert Paranormal series. It is well worth a look if you are a discerning reader of indie fiction, and a fan of atmospheric and well written stories with a dash of the paranormal. Highly recommended.
July 8, 2018
Life is not easy but neither is death
Living in a small community Jinxsie and Jessie have their own personal problems. They just don't know how much they have in common.
Finding out she is adopted is a life changing experience but she doesn't realise how this will impact on her life. Meanwhile Jessie is dealing with her mother's desertion and her aunt Stella's problems. Things come to a head when Jonny starts seeing ghosts and unusual things happen to those who upset her or her teacher. The ending is brilliant.
An excellent read
Living in a small community Jinxsie and Jessie have their own personal problems. They just don't know how much they have in common.
Finding out she is adopted is a life changing experience but she doesn't realise how this will impact on her life. Meanwhile Jessie is dealing with her mother's desertion and her aunt Stella's problems. Things come to a head when Jonny starts seeing ghosts and unusual things happen to those who upset her or her teacher. The ending is brilliant.
An excellent read
May 9, 2017
This story is meant for a YA audience and on some levels it is - teenage angst, 'first' relationships, fitting in - and yet it deals with complex issues such as mental illness and murder.
The friendship between the girls is touching and demonstrates its importance in life.
In addition, there is the paranormal aspect, which brought mystery and intrigue.
Well-written and cleverly done, although I was surprised by the strong language.
Worth a look.
The friendship between the girls is touching and demonstrates its importance in life.
In addition, there is the paranormal aspect, which brought mystery and intrigue.
Well-written and cleverly done, although I was surprised by the strong language.
Worth a look.
March 14, 2019
One option won
I got lost in this one. I couldn’t decide if the girls and the town would just blowup ghosts and all, or if the town might be made whole if possible. I thank Ms.Brodey for the novel and will look for more.
I got lost in this one. I couldn’t decide if the girls and the town would just blowup ghosts and all, or if the town might be made whole if possible. I thank Ms.Brodey for the novel and will look for more.
July 23, 2017
Lisette Brodey’s novel Mystical High, first in her Desert Series, was a fascinating read. I was new to YA paranormal novels but enjoyed myself thoroughly.
June 30, 2018
Sad story
This story is full of grief and sorrow and what happens when lies catch up to you ..
The truth always comes out
This story is full of grief and sorrow and what happens when lies catch up to you ..
The truth always comes out
November 18, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. It was fun and interesting.
January 27, 2015
I've enjoyed Lisette Brodey's previous books but was a little hesitant about the Paranormal aspect of her Trilogy. I needn't have worried. I was captured by the characters from the first page. Brodey has a magical way of weaving a plot so that the reader is always guessing what will happen next or who did what to whom. With this book she doesn't disappoint. I was compelled to keep turning pages.
While this new Trilogy is slotted as YR the only reason for doing so is that the protagonists are teenagers. If Catcher in The Rye were written today, would it not be labeled YR as well? Today's "typecasting" of fiction does a great disservice to readers who shouldn't hesitate to read this book and the others to follow.
The main characters are teenage girls, best friends, whose lives become entangled in family and high school complications. The adults in the book, parents, aunt, teachers, high school principal are each portrayed as carefully thought out people with lives and complications of their own. From start to finish, this book grabs the reader and does not disappoint. I even enjoyed the paranormal events, much to my surprise. I'm very glad that I have already purchased Desert Star, the second book in the Desert Series Trilogy so I can make a seamless transition from the first book to the second. Do yourself a favor and buy this book and its sequel. The last book in the series would, I should think, be out by the end of the year. Onward to Desert Star.
Lisette Brodey is obviously a talented author who should definitely be more widely read. Her well-written, well-edited books set her apart in the field.
While this new Trilogy is slotted as YR the only reason for doing so is that the protagonists are teenagers. If Catcher in The Rye were written today, would it not be labeled YR as well? Today's "typecasting" of fiction does a great disservice to readers who shouldn't hesitate to read this book and the others to follow.
The main characters are teenage girls, best friends, whose lives become entangled in family and high school complications. The adults in the book, parents, aunt, teachers, high school principal are each portrayed as carefully thought out people with lives and complications of their own. From start to finish, this book grabs the reader and does not disappoint. I even enjoyed the paranormal events, much to my surprise. I'm very glad that I have already purchased Desert Star, the second book in the Desert Series Trilogy so I can make a seamless transition from the first book to the second. Do yourself a favor and buy this book and its sequel. The last book in the series would, I should think, be out by the end of the year. Onward to Desert Star.
Lisette Brodey is obviously a talented author who should definitely be more widely read. Her well-written, well-edited books set her apart in the field.
September 29, 2015
I took a chance on this book because it was very inexpensive on Kindle and got some really positive reviews here, but honestly, I can't say much in its favor. It's a rather far-fetched teen drama with some paranormal elements tossed in, and I think that with a couple more stringent revisions, the novel would have been quite enjoyable. But as it is, the writing was just too clunky and simplistic for me. Most of it is dialogue, and what stilted, awkward dialogue it is. The author's attempts at teen slang were sometimes painful to read. The book also included one of my personal literary pet peeves--POV that ping-pongs from character to character, often including two or more per page.
I honestly feel bad that I couldn't like this more, as the premise was very promising. Instead, even though I only spent 99 cents to read this...I kinda want my money back. Since I always try hard to be fair, let me conclude by stating that the bones of the story were actually interesting, and those who enjoy a light paranormal tale and aren't as picky about the writing might enjoy it more than I did.
I honestly feel bad that I couldn't like this more, as the premise was very promising. Instead, even though I only spent 99 cents to read this...I kinda want my money back. Since I always try hard to be fair, let me conclude by stating that the bones of the story were actually interesting, and those who enjoy a light paranormal tale and aren't as picky about the writing might enjoy it more than I did.
June 23, 2015
Unfinished business: Mystical High by Lisette Brody
Jessie Dalworth lives in Mystekal with her father and brother River. Her mom left them and ran away to LA, because Mystekal wasn't enough for her. The small town has very little people in it, it's like a ghost town. She and River go to Mystekal high school, a very small population of seventy five students, The school is very old, it's principal Mr. Carrow is the meanest principal, he owns a lot of property in town. His money is what keeps the school open. Jessie could never make it without her best friend Jinxsy. They both have family problems on their minds, if that's not enough Jinxsy started seeing a long haired boy with a black leather jacket hanging around school. Jessie has never seen this boy, River has seen him to. Jessie doesn't know how she could've missed him, there's not many kids in Mystekal high. Then there's Taylor, the schools princess, at least that's what she thinks. Taylor is always bulling Jessie about her mom and everything else possible, Jinxsy always sticks up for her, not that she needs it. Where in a school with possible ghosts, in a small desert town, with a mean principle, a mean girl. What could happen??
Jessie Dalworth lives in Mystekal with her father and brother River. Her mom left them and ran away to LA, because Mystekal wasn't enough for her. The small town has very little people in it, it's like a ghost town. She and River go to Mystekal high school, a very small population of seventy five students, The school is very old, it's principal Mr. Carrow is the meanest principal, he owns a lot of property in town. His money is what keeps the school open. Jessie could never make it without her best friend Jinxsy. They both have family problems on their minds, if that's not enough Jinxsy started seeing a long haired boy with a black leather jacket hanging around school. Jessie has never seen this boy, River has seen him to. Jessie doesn't know how she could've missed him, there's not many kids in Mystekal high. Then there's Taylor, the schools princess, at least that's what she thinks. Taylor is always bulling Jessie about her mom and everything else possible, Jinxsy always sticks up for her, not that she needs it. Where in a school with possible ghosts, in a small desert town, with a mean principle, a mean girl. What could happen??
December 27, 2013
The paranormal aspect of this book worked pretty well. Although it was not so much a huge focus, it still existed in the background just enough to keep you wondering. What was it? Who was the guy in the leather jacket? The little snippets of information kept the reader interested through out the story. There was quite the twist at the end that left me a little speechless, but you’re just going to have to read the book to find out what!
For a full review, please see http://kaysnovelnook.com/2013/11/20/d...
For a full review, please see http://kaysnovelnook.com/2013/11/20/d...
October 3, 2016
I loved this story! The friendship between Jinxsy and Jessie is awesome. They're true blue to each other and to those they love. Lots of serious issues come to light in the book. How Ms. Brodey has her characters deal with everything that's thrown at them is what kept me hooked. I could feel the characters turbulent emotions, but also their joy. There were twists and turns I didn't see coming and I'll admit to getting misty-eyed when the author tied everything together in the end. I'm eager to delve into book #2 in the series.
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