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The Sententia #1
Lost in Thought
Perfect for readers who love books and series such as Vampire Academy, Spellbound, and Sweet Peril, Lost in Thought is a sure winner for young adult readers interested in the paranormal, romance, and action-packed twists
Lainey Young has a secret: she’s going crazy. Everyone else thinks she has severe migraines from stress and exhaustion. What she really has are visions of how people died—or are going to die. Not that she tells anyone that. At age 16, she prefers keeping her crazy to herself. When doctors insist she needs a new and stable environment to recover, Lainey’s game to spend two years at a private New England boarding school. She doesn’t really think it will cure her problem, and she’s half right. There is no cure, but as she discovers, she’s not actually crazy. Almost everyone at Northbrook Academy has a secret too. Half the students and nearly all the staff are members of the Sententia, a hidden society of the psychically gifted. A vision of another student’s impending death confirms Lainey is one of them. She’d like to return the crappy gift of divining deaths with only a touch, but enjoys spending time with Carter Penrose—recent Academy graduate and resident school crush—while learning to control it. Lainey’s finally getting comfortable with her ability, and with Carter, when they uncover her true Sententia heritage. Now she has a real secret. Once it’s spilled, she’ll be forced to forget protecting secrets and start protecting herself.
Lainey Young has a secret: she’s going crazy. Everyone else thinks she has severe migraines from stress and exhaustion. What she really has are visions of how people died—or are going to die. Not that she tells anyone that. At age 16, she prefers keeping her crazy to herself. When doctors insist she needs a new and stable environment to recover, Lainey’s game to spend two years at a private New England boarding school. She doesn’t really think it will cure her problem, and she’s half right. There is no cure, but as she discovers, she’s not actually crazy. Almost everyone at Northbrook Academy has a secret too. Half the students and nearly all the staff are members of the Sententia, a hidden society of the psychically gifted. A vision of another student’s impending death confirms Lainey is one of them. She’d like to return the crappy gift of divining deaths with only a touch, but enjoys spending time with Carter Penrose—recent Academy graduate and resident school crush—while learning to control it. Lainey’s finally getting comfortable with her ability, and with Carter, when they uncover her true Sententia heritage. Now she has a real secret. Once it’s spilled, she’ll be forced to forget protecting secrets and start protecting herself.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published September 21, 2012
65 people are currently reading
2445 people want to read
About the author
Cara Bertrand
7 books113 followersCara is a former middle school literacy teacher who now lives in the woods outside Boston with: one awesome husband, two large dogs, one small daughter, and lots of words. LOST IN THOUGHT is her first novel and was one of three finalists for the 2011 Amazon/Penguin Breakthrough Novel Award in the Young Adult category.
Visit her online at www.carabertrand.com or on Twitter @carabertrand
Visit her online at www.carabertrand.com or on Twitter @carabertrand
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
April 17, 2014
I received a copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I personally love books about: people who find out they have psychic abilities, boarding schools, people who find out they have this long-standing destiny they never knew about, etc. And Lost in Thought is all these things and so much more!
At first glance, one may think this book is just like a typical ya paranormal romance book about teens with far too much freedom and money. And yes, those things are all there, but Cara Bertrand has this amazing way of story telling. Instead of putting us in suspense (will she/won’t she be with this guy), Cara gives us the information up front. It’s almost like our narrator is speaking both in the moment and from an omniscient/looking back perspective. I don’t know what made her choose to do this, but it definitely worked for me. As a reader, I constantly find myself rolling my eyes at cliches — when you read as many books as I do the patterns of what is going to happen are pretty clear. So taking that canned response and giving me a look into the future is not only surprising, but refreshing.
“Initially I had only a fleeting impression of a cute boy…” “Eventually I would know his face better than my own, than anyone’s. But I didn’t know that then. I didn’t even know his name.”
So, from the first moment we meet the guy, who is so obvious to the reader a future love interest, we know what is going to happen. And even so, the relationship is drawn out, there are bumps and major hiccups, but we have that little grain of information, a piece of the puzzle to hold on to throughout the story. This happened several times in the book and just made me pull out my highlighter and post-its every time.
The book itself continued to surprise me. I would think “oh yeah, I know what is going to happen” and then something else would take things in another direction. On that note, I think I am a bit brainwashed when it comes to boarding school books, because I kept waiting for the ominous “this school is going to be trouble” creep factor, but I never got it. In fact, it creeped me out that I didn’t get that, because the school seemed so… normal. I couldn’t imagine how this was going to hold my attention. And yet, it did.
All of the characters in the book were well developed, including the relationships. We see Lexi, who is direct, yet shy, taking on the world so different due to her prior lifestyle of roaming the world with her godmother. When the boy falls for her, I didn’t get that ‘this girl is normal and the hot guy is falling for her’ vibe, but the ‘this girl is really something and it really makes sense seeing them together.’ Amy, the roommate could have been very one-dimensional, but had layers of her own, even though she was a minor character.
Lost in Thought has secrets, mystery, high school drama, romance, and a lot of potential for an amazing series story line. This book set the stage for a pretty spectacular following and still managed to be more than a place holder. It started as a book I thought “oh, yeah I’ll like that” and ended as “wow, that’s not going to leave my brain for quite some time.”
Also, grr to that end. Seriously, though! The book isn't even out yet, and I'm already pining away for the second installment.
For this review and more, visit Such a Novel Idea.
-----
Initial Reaction:
Ahh, that end was so not fair!
Review this week with the blog tour!
I personally love books about: people who find out they have psychic abilities, boarding schools, people who find out they have this long-standing destiny they never knew about, etc. And Lost in Thought is all these things and so much more!
At first glance, one may think this book is just like a typical ya paranormal romance book about teens with far too much freedom and money. And yes, those things are all there, but Cara Bertrand has this amazing way of story telling. Instead of putting us in suspense (will she/won’t she be with this guy), Cara gives us the information up front. It’s almost like our narrator is speaking both in the moment and from an omniscient/looking back perspective. I don’t know what made her choose to do this, but it definitely worked for me. As a reader, I constantly find myself rolling my eyes at cliches — when you read as many books as I do the patterns of what is going to happen are pretty clear. So taking that canned response and giving me a look into the future is not only surprising, but refreshing.
“Initially I had only a fleeting impression of a cute boy…” “Eventually I would know his face better than my own, than anyone’s. But I didn’t know that then. I didn’t even know his name.”
So, from the first moment we meet the guy, who is so obvious to the reader a future love interest, we know what is going to happen. And even so, the relationship is drawn out, there are bumps and major hiccups, but we have that little grain of information, a piece of the puzzle to hold on to throughout the story. This happened several times in the book and just made me pull out my highlighter and post-its every time.
The book itself continued to surprise me. I would think “oh yeah, I know what is going to happen” and then something else would take things in another direction. On that note, I think I am a bit brainwashed when it comes to boarding school books, because I kept waiting for the ominous “this school is going to be trouble” creep factor, but I never got it. In fact, it creeped me out that I didn’t get that, because the school seemed so… normal. I couldn’t imagine how this was going to hold my attention. And yet, it did.
All of the characters in the book were well developed, including the relationships. We see Lexi, who is direct, yet shy, taking on the world so different due to her prior lifestyle of roaming the world with her godmother. When the boy falls for her, I didn’t get that ‘this girl is normal and the hot guy is falling for her’ vibe, but the ‘this girl is really something and it really makes sense seeing them together.’ Amy, the roommate could have been very one-dimensional, but had layers of her own, even though she was a minor character.
Lost in Thought has secrets, mystery, high school drama, romance, and a lot of potential for an amazing series story line. This book set the stage for a pretty spectacular following and still managed to be more than a place holder. It started as a book I thought “oh, yeah I’ll like that” and ended as “wow, that’s not going to leave my brain for quite some time.”
Also, grr to that end. Seriously, though! The book isn't even out yet, and I'm already pining away for the second installment.
For this review and more, visit Such a Novel Idea.
-----
Initial Reaction:
Ahh, that end was so not fair!
Review this week with the blog tour!
March 8, 2014
When I first saw this book I wasn't sure if I wanted to read it or not, but after I finishd this book.... I was thunderstruck. If want a paranormal book that's exciting but still has a little bit of romance than this is the book for you.Mystery.Adventure.Romance.
This is what you need to know
12 years ago Lainey Young's parents died in a car crash.
For the past 12 years she's lived with her mom's best friend
For the past 2 she's been called crazy
Lainey Young is special in more ways than she knows. After 2 years of being poked and prodded Lainey's cool to finish high school on the east coast. What she doesn't know is that this school will change her life...forever. When she arives at Northbrook Academy Lainey is prepared for almost anything. Carter Penrose was not one of them. All her life Lainey has moved from place to place, and never had the chance to stay in one place long enough to form a real relationships. When she meets Carter she's excited, because this might be her chance to have a actual relationship. One minor detail....almost every girl at Northbrook Academy wants to be his girlfriend, so she has like little to no chance until she finds out what he is and what she really is. Then she's introduced to the community of Sententia. The Sententia are a group of the mentally gifted. In the rest of the book will weave in and out the Sententia community, school drama, and who Laniey really is.
When Cara Bentrand sent me this book I was thankful. She did an amazing job writing Lost in Thought if I could recommend this book to anyone it would be everyone. The plot line was through and through but still left you guessing 'till the last page. One thing that i think would have the book better would have been to make the ending longer to have more of an openig to write a squeal (which she will have to do or I will kill my self). Besides that thia book deserved all five of those stars the content was amazing and she just did a splendid job of writing this book.
*Recommended for Teens
This is what you need to know
12 years ago Lainey Young's parents died in a car crash.
For the past 12 years she's lived with her mom's best friend
For the past 2 she's been called crazy
Lainey Young is special in more ways than she knows. After 2 years of being poked and prodded Lainey's cool to finish high school on the east coast. What she doesn't know is that this school will change her life...forever. When she arives at Northbrook Academy Lainey is prepared for almost anything. Carter Penrose was not one of them. All her life Lainey has moved from place to place, and never had the chance to stay in one place long enough to form a real relationships. When she meets Carter she's excited, because this might be her chance to have a actual relationship. One minor detail....almost every girl at Northbrook Academy wants to be his girlfriend, so she has like little to no chance until she finds out what he is and what she really is. Then she's introduced to the community of Sententia. The Sententia are a group of the mentally gifted. In the rest of the book will weave in and out the Sententia community, school drama, and who Laniey really is.
When Cara Bentrand sent me this book I was thankful. She did an amazing job writing Lost in Thought if I could recommend this book to anyone it would be everyone. The plot line was through and through but still left you guessing 'till the last page. One thing that i think would have the book better would have been to make the ending longer to have more of an openig to write a squeal (which she will have to do or I will kill my self). Besides that thia book deserved all five of those stars the content was amazing and she just did a splendid job of writing this book.
*Recommended for Teens
December 21, 2018
Lost in Thought, First Book of the Sententia by Cara Bertrand was an absolutely wonderful read. This was the authors first novel and one of the three finalists for the Amazon/Penguin Breakthrough Novel Award in the Young Adult Category. Always with a new development just waiting around the corner to shock you, this first installment was extraordinary! I literally could not put it down and gladly lost a great amount of sleep. The story taking place in a boarding school is enjoyable and the cast of support characters were complex and entertaining. Lainey and Carter start to investigate the anonymous Legacy she has been given and Lainey finds she has powers that could be manipulated by very powerful people. This Paranormal Thriller will not disappoint and I believe it will be a hit with its intended audience. There was a cliffhanger that leaves you wanting but have faith that all will be revealed. I can’t wait to read the next in series!
May 9, 2013
I was sent a .mobi eBook copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I featured this book in one of my Friday Finds posts a few months back and the author contacted me not long after, offering to gift me a an eBook copy of her novel for review. I eagerly accepted and I can’t believe I’m only just now getting round to reading and reviewing it. I’m finding it hard to begin to describe how fantastic this novel was.
Lainey Young thinks she’s going crazy. Whilst everyone around her thinks she suffers from severe migraines that often make her pass out – the truth is something more absurd. Lainey really has visions of how people died – or how they’re going to die. Lainey has lived with her Aunt Tessa, since she was 5 years old and her parents died. Since then, she’s moved around the country, following her Aunt’s passion and career as an artist – never staying in one place long enough to form attachments.
When her Doctors insists she needs a new and stable environment to help improve her ‘migraines’, Lainey jumps at the chance of finishing her two remaining High School years at a private boarding school in New England and start acting like a normal teenager. Not long after being settled into Northbrook Academy, a sudden vision of a classmate’s death engulfs her, and Lainey is forced to admit that maybe she isn’t going crazy – and that her visions are real. When she then goes in search of answers about her parents and their past, nothing can prepare Lainey for the truth of who she really is and what she is really capable of.
First off, I would like to start with saying how incredible and natural Cara Bertrand’s writing is. The entire writing style is so down to earth and relatable that it was a pleasure to read. Everything about this book was just amazing and the plot and storyline was just incredible and so unique in its own way. I had to force myself to put my kindle down on several occasions so I wouldn’t read it all in one sitting and rush it.
I really loved Lainey’s character – she was so down to earth and interesting – even with her unusual upbringing. Lainey was a very smart, interesting, funny, witty, kind and overall just a lovely character. I loved how she didn’t get herself wrapped up in all of the angst and teenage drama that so many characters can be. Lainey is also incredibly mature and responsible for her age, and there are many scenes throughout the book that I’m sure a different teenager would have reacted differently to. At the end of the book, there is a scene where Lainey acts incredibly responsible and shows how much of a good person she really is – even when it wasn’t warranted.
Carter Penrose is the love interest of pretty much every girl at Northbrook Academy. A former academy student, runner, part owner of the onsite book store and a total hottie – it’s no wonder that all the girls go gaga for him. Apart from being the local heartthrob - Carter seemed like a really upfront, honest, sweet, funny and kind guy. You read about some of the mistakes he’s made in his past, but you grow to know about how much he’s regretted them. You also learn about how hard he tries to be the type of person he wants to be and who he thinks Lainey deserves. I really did love Carter character, and I also think he’s incredibly considerate and mature for his age – considering the fact that males seem to mature much slower than females!
What I loved about Lainey and Carter’s relationship throughout the book is that neither one of them seemed to lose all their common sense or logic when it came to the other person. They saw each other for who they really were and not what they appeared to be. The chemistry between them was incredible and totally swoon-worthy; I can only hope I’ll find something similar in the future.
Overall I thought this book was amazing – and I’m still trying to come up with enough adjectives to describe how awesome and wonderful this book was. My once overly literate self seems to have gone out the window. The ending left me completely gobsmacked; I wasn’t excepting what happened at all, and I still can’t believe it did – but it was also the perfect ending. I believe the 5/5 star rating I gave this book was well and truly earned and it deserves nothing less! I can’t wait for the sequel to be released, I’m sure I’ll devour it in no time.
I featured this book in one of my Friday Finds posts a few months back and the author contacted me not long after, offering to gift me a an eBook copy of her novel for review. I eagerly accepted and I can’t believe I’m only just now getting round to reading and reviewing it. I’m finding it hard to begin to describe how fantastic this novel was.
Lainey Young thinks she’s going crazy. Whilst everyone around her thinks she suffers from severe migraines that often make her pass out – the truth is something more absurd. Lainey really has visions of how people died – or how they’re going to die. Lainey has lived with her Aunt Tessa, since she was 5 years old and her parents died. Since then, she’s moved around the country, following her Aunt’s passion and career as an artist – never staying in one place long enough to form attachments.
When her Doctors insists she needs a new and stable environment to help improve her ‘migraines’, Lainey jumps at the chance of finishing her two remaining High School years at a private boarding school in New England and start acting like a normal teenager. Not long after being settled into Northbrook Academy, a sudden vision of a classmate’s death engulfs her, and Lainey is forced to admit that maybe she isn’t going crazy – and that her visions are real. When she then goes in search of answers about her parents and their past, nothing can prepare Lainey for the truth of who she really is and what she is really capable of.
First off, I would like to start with saying how incredible and natural Cara Bertrand’s writing is. The entire writing style is so down to earth and relatable that it was a pleasure to read. Everything about this book was just amazing and the plot and storyline was just incredible and so unique in its own way. I had to force myself to put my kindle down on several occasions so I wouldn’t read it all in one sitting and rush it.
I really loved Lainey’s character – she was so down to earth and interesting – even with her unusual upbringing. Lainey was a very smart, interesting, funny, witty, kind and overall just a lovely character. I loved how she didn’t get herself wrapped up in all of the angst and teenage drama that so many characters can be. Lainey is also incredibly mature and responsible for her age, and there are many scenes throughout the book that I’m sure a different teenager would have reacted differently to. At the end of the book, there is a scene where Lainey acts incredibly responsible and shows how much of a good person she really is – even when it wasn’t warranted.
Carter Penrose is the love interest of pretty much every girl at Northbrook Academy. A former academy student, runner, part owner of the onsite book store and a total hottie – it’s no wonder that all the girls go gaga for him. Apart from being the local heartthrob - Carter seemed like a really upfront, honest, sweet, funny and kind guy. You read about some of the mistakes he’s made in his past, but you grow to know about how much he’s regretted them. You also learn about how hard he tries to be the type of person he wants to be and who he thinks Lainey deserves. I really did love Carter character, and I also think he’s incredibly considerate and mature for his age – considering the fact that males seem to mature much slower than females!
What I loved about Lainey and Carter’s relationship throughout the book is that neither one of them seemed to lose all their common sense or logic when it came to the other person. They saw each other for who they really were and not what they appeared to be. The chemistry between them was incredible and totally swoon-worthy; I can only hope I’ll find something similar in the future.
Overall I thought this book was amazing – and I’m still trying to come up with enough adjectives to describe how awesome and wonderful this book was. My once overly literate self seems to have gone out the window. The ending left me completely gobsmacked; I wasn’t excepting what happened at all, and I still can’t believe it did – but it was also the perfect ending. I believe the 5/5 star rating I gave this book was well and truly earned and it deserves nothing less! I can’t wait for the sequel to be released, I’m sure I’ll devour it in no time.
March 8, 2017
This book left me with some questions and I can't wait to read the next to figure out what happened to Lainey and Carter! It was a fast, engaging read It has me wishing for magic powers and a boarding school! The last paragraph though?????? I can't wait to read the next, the suspense is killing me!!!
August 17, 2016
Let’s just be honest, I was automatically drawn in by the cover. It’s gorgeous and makes you wonder what it’s about. I enjoy books that have young teens feeling different from the world and discovering they have powers. Lost in Thought is very different from most books because while it does take place at a boarding school with teens who have too much freedom and money, that isn’t the sole purpose of the book.
Cara Bertrand is not an author that I was familiar when first starting out the book and I’m so glad that I gave it a chance because this book was awesome. Her writing style isn’t your typical young adult writing style with choppy incomplete sentences and such. It was beautifully written with excellent grammar. Her descriptions made you feel as if you were physically there and were close friends with the characters.
The paranormal thing wasn’t a huge focus of this book necessarily (even though it was there) because it’s about a girl learning about her destiny and who she is while navigating the road of normalcy. It also focuses a lot on her relationship with Carter. You’re constantly wondering whether or not Lainey and Carter were even going to end up together. While we did get a lot of information up front, Bertrand kept a lot of the suspense going throughout the book that kept you on your toes wondering what’s going to happen. There were quite a few of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming and that made the book a heck of more enjoyable.
I loved the characters. They were real, fun, and relatable. Amy and Carter are probably my favorites besides Lainey. Oh and we can’t forget about Aunt Tessa. I loved that Lainey and Carter had a lot in common, especially that they both were bookworms.
The boarding school setting was also quite interesting. I’ve never been to a boarding school so I didn’t entirely know what to expect. Throw in the paranormal stuff and it’s even more interesting. Perfection at it’s finest.
Since I usually review Christian books, I must mention that this is not one. The characters do curse and talk about sex quite a bit. The most we read about sex is through conversations though. There are quite a few times where the Lord’s name is taken in vain. I only mention this for my readers who refuse to read books that contain this kind of stuff. While it does contain these things, it isn’t overdone to the point that it makes the book garbage. It was really enjoyable and I highly recommend it.
I plan on reading the sequel and posting a review very shortly.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Cara Bertrand is not an author that I was familiar when first starting out the book and I’m so glad that I gave it a chance because this book was awesome. Her writing style isn’t your typical young adult writing style with choppy incomplete sentences and such. It was beautifully written with excellent grammar. Her descriptions made you feel as if you were physically there and were close friends with the characters.
The paranormal thing wasn’t a huge focus of this book necessarily (even though it was there) because it’s about a girl learning about her destiny and who she is while navigating the road of normalcy. It also focuses a lot on her relationship with Carter. You’re constantly wondering whether or not Lainey and Carter were even going to end up together. While we did get a lot of information up front, Bertrand kept a lot of the suspense going throughout the book that kept you on your toes wondering what’s going to happen. There were quite a few of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming and that made the book a heck of more enjoyable.
I loved the characters. They were real, fun, and relatable. Amy and Carter are probably my favorites besides Lainey. Oh and we can’t forget about Aunt Tessa. I loved that Lainey and Carter had a lot in common, especially that they both were bookworms.
The boarding school setting was also quite interesting. I’ve never been to a boarding school so I didn’t entirely know what to expect. Throw in the paranormal stuff and it’s even more interesting. Perfection at it’s finest.
Since I usually review Christian books, I must mention that this is not one. The characters do curse and talk about sex quite a bit. The most we read about sex is through conversations though. There are quite a few times where the Lord’s name is taken in vain. I only mention this for my readers who refuse to read books that contain this kind of stuff. While it does contain these things, it isn’t overdone to the point that it makes the book garbage. It was really enjoyable and I highly recommend it.
I plan on reading the sequel and posting a review very shortly.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 11, 2013
For years Lainey thought she was going crazy. Doctors can't figure it out and say it is caused by migraines due to stress and exhaustion. That doesn't explain why she see how people die or are going to. However that is something she tells no one. The doctors think it best if she has a normal life a while not moving around with her aunt. A gift she never knew about lets her enroll in Northbrook Academy. For the first time she feels normal and makes some great friends. Those friends include Carter a boy who helps run the book store. The school isn't what it seems as she finds out after seeing a vision of a girl dying. She learns it has many Sententia in it and she is one as well. They have gifts but none like her gift. She has to learn more about it and how she got her power with the help of Carter. What she learns is she is more special than they previous thought and she may be in danger.
Lainey shoots up my chart on favorite female characters. I really enjoy reading about this girl and learning about her. She is pretty but doesn't see it her self, smart, tries to keep a level head and has a unique gift. She is also easily embarrassed and shy. Carter is the boy everyone likes especially girls. He is the object of many girls crushes but has never dating girls at the school. He is super smart and you later see why, of course handsome, charming and he can be very patient. Watching Carter and Lainey get to know each other and develop feelings for each other is wonderful. There is many other characters you get to know and I like reading about all of them. I have to say Amy, Lainey's roommate is so awesome! I love this girl.
While this story line may sound similar to other trust me when I say it is different. The characters are so wonderful that they alone make it worth the read. However they are not the only great thing. The whole book is. You keep reading to see what you can find out along with Lainey. Each reveal dives you more into Lainey's life yet still makes you want more information. Basically you just keep wanting more and more! There is plenty of shocks as well since you never would guess what is happening. I liked each gift I got to read about bu can't wait to see more of them. It seems like a lot of people have secrets and I know this book just touched the edges of what is to be reveal. The ending I will say left me hanging thinking it can't be over yet! I can't wait for the next book.
Lainey shoots up my chart on favorite female characters. I really enjoy reading about this girl and learning about her. She is pretty but doesn't see it her self, smart, tries to keep a level head and has a unique gift. She is also easily embarrassed and shy. Carter is the boy everyone likes especially girls. He is the object of many girls crushes but has never dating girls at the school. He is super smart and you later see why, of course handsome, charming and he can be very patient. Watching Carter and Lainey get to know each other and develop feelings for each other is wonderful. There is many other characters you get to know and I like reading about all of them. I have to say Amy, Lainey's roommate is so awesome! I love this girl.
While this story line may sound similar to other trust me when I say it is different. The characters are so wonderful that they alone make it worth the read. However they are not the only great thing. The whole book is. You keep reading to see what you can find out along with Lainey. Each reveal dives you more into Lainey's life yet still makes you want more information. Basically you just keep wanting more and more! There is plenty of shocks as well since you never would guess what is happening. I liked each gift I got to read about bu can't wait to see more of them. It seems like a lot of people have secrets and I know this book just touched the edges of what is to be reveal. The ending I will say left me hanging thinking it can't be over yet! I can't wait for the next book.
July 15, 2013
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this book!
This has been on my Amazon wish list for a while now and I don't actually remember how I found it. I think I was browsing and it came up in those recommendations at the bottom of the page. So when I saw there was going to be a tour I jumped at the chance! Let me start by saying I plan on buying this novel as I had originally intended, especially now that I know it will be worth every penny.
The internal voice of the main protagonist is really well written and while normally first person narratives are always either a hit or a miss with me, this one was definitely a hit. In fact I would say it was a home run. Part of what gives this story the unique feeling it manages to pull off, where you sit there almost feeling like you're sneaking around reading someone's diary, is the narrative and its honest tone.
You get a glimpse into Lainey's quirky personality and the secrets she keeps from everyone, amazing secrets that make her feel like a bit of a freak but are also part of what is so wonderful about her. I am really looking forward to more of Cara's work. The depth woven into the story, the strong characters and the unique execution and delivery of a very honest and raw voice convincing you that the unimaginable is in fact happening to her (well, is in fact her actually) is all simply amazing.
Truly a fantastic novel!
Posted on my blog: www.EmmaMichaels.com
This has been on my Amazon wish list for a while now and I don't actually remember how I found it. I think I was browsing and it came up in those recommendations at the bottom of the page. So when I saw there was going to be a tour I jumped at the chance! Let me start by saying I plan on buying this novel as I had originally intended, especially now that I know it will be worth every penny.
The internal voice of the main protagonist is really well written and while normally first person narratives are always either a hit or a miss with me, this one was definitely a hit. In fact I would say it was a home run. Part of what gives this story the unique feeling it manages to pull off, where you sit there almost feeling like you're sneaking around reading someone's diary, is the narrative and its honest tone.
You get a glimpse into Lainey's quirky personality and the secrets she keeps from everyone, amazing secrets that make her feel like a bit of a freak but are also part of what is so wonderful about her. I am really looking forward to more of Cara's work. The depth woven into the story, the strong characters and the unique execution and delivery of a very honest and raw voice convincing you that the unimaginable is in fact happening to her (well, is in fact her actually) is all simply amazing.
Truly a fantastic novel!
Posted on my blog: www.EmmaMichaels.com
July 12, 2013
I wasn't going to read this book at first because I had too many reviews already to get done, however, I had heard and read so many good things about this book and was told how well it was written, so I just had to read it, especially when the option presented its self. First I must say this is probably the most well thought out and well written book I have read in a long time. Not once did I see any editing or grammar errors. The characters and imagination that went into Lost In Thought was amazing. I really loved Carter's character but I think Amy was my fave, she was so out going and carefree. Her personality out shined all the others. However, she was not the main character, that would be Lainey.
Lainey's always been different, not really having many friends and constantly on the move since her parents died. She just didn't know how different til she arrived at the boarding school, where she soon learns there is so much more to her and those around her than she ever knew possible. Lainey is thrown into this new world of unknown only to discover she never really knew her parents and the world they came from. With the help of the gorgeous Carter, she dives in to find out her family background only to be surprised around every corner.
This book was absolutely amazing, I can't wait to read the sequel and see where Cara takes us next.
Lainey's always been different, not really having many friends and constantly on the move since her parents died. She just didn't know how different til she arrived at the boarding school, where she soon learns there is so much more to her and those around her than she ever knew possible. Lainey is thrown into this new world of unknown only to discover she never really knew her parents and the world they came from. With the help of the gorgeous Carter, she dives in to find out her family background only to be surprised around every corner.
This book was absolutely amazing, I can't wait to read the sequel and see where Cara takes us next.
August 22, 2016
When you start a new series you never know what to expect. Lost in Thought is book one in The Sententia series by Cara Bertrand. I love a good paranormal story and was hoping this would be exactly that. I am happy to report that it is! Lost in Thought is a YA Paranormal story that has everything I was hoping for and more.
The unique part of this story is that there is no mystery as to who is paranormal and who is not. Cara Bertrand starts the book out giving the reader the information needed to know who Lainey is and why she is at Northbrook Academy. I enjoyed knowing right away what was going on. There was no guessing. Yet, as I read there was so much more to her story that what was told in the beginning.
The relationships between Lainey and Carter was so teenage like. Even though they were living a secret lifestyle they had a teenage relationship. The disagreements, the dates, and the time together was portrayed exactly as it should be. The author did a great job in keeping them young while not making them childish.
I recommend this to any paranormal reader who is looking for a book that will keep you guessing, reading, and enjoying every page. There is secrets, teenage drama, romance, and so much more within this story. Lost in Thought is the first book in what I anticipate being a great series.
The unique part of this story is that there is no mystery as to who is paranormal and who is not. Cara Bertrand starts the book out giving the reader the information needed to know who Lainey is and why she is at Northbrook Academy. I enjoyed knowing right away what was going on. There was no guessing. Yet, as I read there was so much more to her story that what was told in the beginning.
The relationships between Lainey and Carter was so teenage like. Even though they were living a secret lifestyle they had a teenage relationship. The disagreements, the dates, and the time together was portrayed exactly as it should be. The author did a great job in keeping them young while not making them childish.
I recommend this to any paranormal reader who is looking for a book that will keep you guessing, reading, and enjoying every page. There is secrets, teenage drama, romance, and so much more within this story. Lost in Thought is the first book in what I anticipate being a great series.
August 14, 2016
I was drawn to check this book out by this fabulous promotion of the book "Perfect for readers who love books and series such as Vampire Academy, Spellbound, and Sweet Peril, Lost in Thought is a sure winner for young adult readers interested in the paranormal, romance, and action-packed twists."
This book did start out fine. I was very intrigued by Lainey's abilities as a sentenia. Yet, I got a glimpse of her abilities before the story went on to just conversation. I kept reading hoping that the story were get better for me as I was rooting for it. Sadly, it did not as did the other characters. There was no emotional connection towards any of them. I did skip ahead towards the last third of the book and started reading. This is what I was looking for at the beginning of this story...action. I understand that this being the first book in this series that the author may have felt that she really needed to bring out the history of the sentenias, the school, and all of the characters. However, if you can stick with the book for a while, then you may enjoy this series.
This book did start out fine. I was very intrigued by Lainey's abilities as a sentenia. Yet, I got a glimpse of her abilities before the story went on to just conversation. I kept reading hoping that the story were get better for me as I was rooting for it. Sadly, it did not as did the other characters. There was no emotional connection towards any of them. I did skip ahead towards the last third of the book and started reading. This is what I was looking for at the beginning of this story...action. I understand that this being the first book in this series that the author may have felt that she really needed to bring out the history of the sentenias, the school, and all of the characters. However, if you can stick with the book for a while, then you may enjoy this series.
May 1, 2014
I very much enjoyed this book.
I love weird goings-on at boarding schools, but this book is not as Lois Duncan as I was expecting. It's not particularly creepy and, even though it's definitely paranormal, it feels very contemporary, too.
Lainey is in an impossible situation: she knows something is very wrong with her but she believes she's actually---literally---going crazy. Because she thinks that if anyone finds out about her, she'll end up institutionalized, she's gotten very good at keeping her own secrets.
You can imagine her feeling at discovering that not only is she NOT crazy, there are other people like her. It's sort of one part relief and one part anxiety.
This story mostly went where I expected it to (of COURSE the hot guy likes her!) but there were also plenty of surprises.
Also, the ending has left me absolutely desperate for the second book, which I sincerely hope will be released soon.
Recommended.
I love weird goings-on at boarding schools, but this book is not as Lois Duncan as I was expecting. It's not particularly creepy and, even though it's definitely paranormal, it feels very contemporary, too.
Lainey is in an impossible situation: she knows something is very wrong with her but she believes she's actually---literally---going crazy. Because she thinks that if anyone finds out about her, she'll end up institutionalized, she's gotten very good at keeping her own secrets.
You can imagine her feeling at discovering that not only is she NOT crazy, there are other people like her. It's sort of one part relief and one part anxiety.
This story mostly went where I expected it to (of COURSE the hot guy likes her!) but there were also plenty of surprises.
Also, the ending has left me absolutely desperate for the second book, which I sincerely hope will be released soon.
Recommended.
June 11, 2014
I randomly saw this book at the library yesterday and felt compelled to read it. The instant I got home, I opened it, and I did not close it until I finished it. Yes, I stayed up half the night to finish it because it was one of those 'one more chapter' books where you never stop saying that until it's over. And even then, my immediate thought was 'when does the next one come out?'. Definitely a favorite. This is a must-read for anyone who is a fan of the paranormal.
December 3, 2012
This was an interesting read. The characters were well developed their "superpowers" were unique. The world building was well thought out and for an indie there were very few grammatical errors. I look forward to the next in the series.
November 22, 2012
slow beginning, but once it gets going it is really good.
June 1, 2018
Nem hittem, hogy ennyire tetszeni fog. Ez egy kellemes meglepetés volt.
Lainey 17 éves lány, ki nem éppen normális körülmények között került egy bentlakásos iskolába, ahová már előre ki volt fizetve neki minden, egy ismeretlen szponzor által. AZ apja végrendeletében volt megírva, hogy ha valaha is szükség lesz rá, akkor a lánya oda menjen és tanuljon. És mint kiderült a szponzornak hála, Lainey egy Legacy vagyis nem éppen szokásos erőkkel megáldott személy.
A fantasy száltól eltekintve ez egy igazi tipikus tini történet, barátsággal, beilleszkedéssel, az első szerelemmel és egy belevaló lánnyal, aki még csak most kezdi igazán megismerni önmagát és a világot, ami eddig titok volt előtte. Végig követhetjük, hogy hogyan ismeri meg és fogadja el ezt a világot és a részét benne. Nem egy ijedős fajta lány és nem is szerény, nem fél kiállni önmagáért és nem is tűri el, hogy átgázoljanak rajta. Ésszerű és vagány.
Egy eredeti történet, amit már sok változatban olvastam, de még mindig nem untam meg újabbakat keresni és beleélni magam.
Lainey 17 éves lány, ki nem éppen normális körülmények között került egy bentlakásos iskolába, ahová már előre ki volt fizetve neki minden, egy ismeretlen szponzor által. AZ apja végrendeletében volt megírva, hogy ha valaha is szükség lesz rá, akkor a lánya oda menjen és tanuljon. És mint kiderült a szponzornak hála, Lainey egy Legacy vagyis nem éppen szokásos erőkkel megáldott személy.
A fantasy száltól eltekintve ez egy igazi tipikus tini történet, barátsággal, beilleszkedéssel, az első szerelemmel és egy belevaló lánnyal, aki még csak most kezdi igazán megismerni önmagát és a világot, ami eddig titok volt előtte. Végig követhetjük, hogy hogyan ismeri meg és fogadja el ezt a világot és a részét benne. Nem egy ijedős fajta lány és nem is szerény, nem fél kiállni önmagáért és nem is tűri el, hogy átgázoljanak rajta. Ésszerű és vagány.
Egy eredeti történet, amit már sok változatban olvastam, de még mindig nem untam meg újabbakat keresni és beleélni magam.
December 2, 2018
Loved this book, it was a different type of book however it really made sense. The book is about the Sententia which is like people with "powers", the "powers" I'm talking about are the ones like the luckiest person, can tell if someone is lying, moving something with your mind and so on. I really liked the author's form of writing, it was very detailed (at points) and not at others. The only thing I didn't care for about this book was sometimes they didn't explain everything very well. It had lots of twists and turns and one girl (Jillian) didn't turn out to be who I thought she was gonna be. another thing about this book is it says it's in a series; however, I can't find more books in this series.
July 20, 2020
This book is amazing, everything about this book surprised me more and more. I really enjoyed the first book. It was a wonderful work of fiction/romance/ little bit of drama. I couldn't put it down, without wondering how Lainey Young was going to handle everything that was coming towards her life. Really liked how the mixed up pieces were coming together about her SENTENTIA, and when she found out the truth about her father's past. I can't wait to read the second book of this series. IT WAS PHENOMENAL!!!
January 3, 2018
it's a shame it cost so much to buy & get this book series delivered to the UK. I loved this book and would really like to read the 2 other books in the series. an easy read which I couldn't put down and would recommend. I didn't see the ending chapters coming which makes it a million times better and it also got you thinking about the odd things you see every day.
November 15, 2018
Not the worst thing I've ever read, but I definitely had to force myself to finish despite how short it was. The beginning and middle sections dragged terribly with lots of fluff thrown in and not much plot/substance. Lainey and Carter are both borderline Mary Sue types, which didn't help, and for me, the big twist wasn't worth the effort and time it took to get there.
December 13, 2019
Rating:9/10
I finally finished this book after a week, I took a long break from reading. I really want to read the next book, it definitely keeps you on your toes, especially the last sentence! It has the fantasy/magical effects but also the teenage love story, that’s not cringy or basic! I highly recommend this series/book!
I finally finished this book after a week, I took a long break from reading. I really want to read the next book, it definitely keeps you on your toes, especially the last sentence! It has the fantasy/magical effects but also the teenage love story, that’s not cringy or basic! I highly recommend this series/book!
February 26, 2021
Fun book, enjoyable characters and plot.
October 8, 2014
When I first began this novel, I was skeptical at best. However, as I delved further I became obsessed with this paranormal world that Cara Bertrand so masterfully wove. I think what made Lost in Thought so captivating were the characters. Lainey Young is our main character, an orphan teenager who lives with her artistic aunt. At the age of five she lost both her parents in a fatal car accident and has resided with her more than lovely aunt since then. Ever since childhood, Lainey has constantly been on the move with her aunt – until she begins to get mysterious migraines, dizzy spells, momentary fainting, oh – and she gets visions of past and future deaths.
“Every one of my doctors tried hard to solve my problem, and in the end I felt bad for them. I wanted to stop the testing after the first two neurologists, but Aunt Tessa absolutely refused to let it go. The problem was not my undoubtedly excellent specialists. The problem was me. I wasn’t honest with them, at least not entirely, because I had hoped they could find a medical reason for my headaches without me having to admit the full truth.
The problem was that I saw dead people.”
Lainey comes to conclusion that she is in fact going insane. With the recommendation of her doctor that she needs to finally have a stable, normal life she agrees with her aunt to enroll at Northbrook Academy, a boarding school.
Here she doesn’t quite find normalcy; however, she does find people much like herself, along with an amazing group of friends. I think why I loved the characters so much was the fact that Cara Bertrand made them so realistic. She adapted to how real teenage kids behave and act, there is no ‘-sue’ characters, everyone has a flaw or two. Among Lainey’s new group of friends is her heartwarming, genuine bestie Amy. The scenes with these two were my absolute favorite, not only because Bertrand illustrates ‘girl’ talks so perfectly but because their relationship felt so real it’s as if it came to life as you read. This goes for Lainey’s other future relationships.
Though, Northbrook Academy is where the real mystery begins. It turns out that Northbrook is not all it seems, just as Lainey is not insane. Unknown to Lainey, some students and faculty alike also posses strange gifts. They are all part of a secret faction of people called Sententia. Amongst all this, she also has a unknown sponsor which ranks her with a Legacy status. It isn’t until Lainey meets Carter Penrose, a handsome eighteen year old who works at the local bookstore on campus, that she discovers who she is and what gift she has been bestowed. He is a mystery all on his own, and we all know a girl like a good mystery.
“I could have sworn that just as the whatever it was crashed downstairs, his eyes made a strange flash, becoming entirely dark in the center, surrounded by a pale, watery blue line.”
I must admit that Carter Penrose is now among my dozens of fantasy book boyfriends. He has everything and more, did I mention that he loves books, and he’s superbly attractive? That’s a real winner right there. He is also a very interesting character who has his own sheltered, heart-shattering secrets. Carter becomes a big fraction of Lainey’s life and helps her discover the mysteries of her family, the Sententia, and her gift. I could go on forever about the relationship dynamic between characters, and how they relate so well to how society is today (minus the paranormal) but then I’d be here all day. What I found ultimately captivating about this book was the foreshadowing that Bertrand would use, the way she wrote Lost in Thought was addicting and suspenseful, even if I wanted to stop (which I didn’t) I couldn’t.
“Welcome to Sententia, Miss Young. I hope we’ll be proud to call you one of us.”
As I got further into Lost in Thought, the story gets darker, and more disturbing – all the more to continue, right? The mystery of the Sententia really tugs the reader in: Who is Lainey’s sponsor and relatives? Are the Sententia people good? Who are the gifted? What’s Carter hiding? What does Lainey’s gift mean for her? All these questions enthralled me, I absolutely could not put this book down. Nothing ever comes simple for Lainey, there is always a wicked bump in the road which I enjoyed because not once did I grow tired or bored of the story.
Cara Bertrand tossed me into this twisted, winding labyrinth of a story which I cannot wait to continue in the second installment, Second Thoughts.
In all honesty, Lost in Thought should have come with a warning label. PROCEED WITH CAUTION: ADDICTION MAY OCCUR.
“Every one of my doctors tried hard to solve my problem, and in the end I felt bad for them. I wanted to stop the testing after the first two neurologists, but Aunt Tessa absolutely refused to let it go. The problem was not my undoubtedly excellent specialists. The problem was me. I wasn’t honest with them, at least not entirely, because I had hoped they could find a medical reason for my headaches without me having to admit the full truth.
The problem was that I saw dead people.”
Lainey comes to conclusion that she is in fact going insane. With the recommendation of her doctor that she needs to finally have a stable, normal life she agrees with her aunt to enroll at Northbrook Academy, a boarding school.
Here she doesn’t quite find normalcy; however, she does find people much like herself, along with an amazing group of friends. I think why I loved the characters so much was the fact that Cara Bertrand made them so realistic. She adapted to how real teenage kids behave and act, there is no ‘-sue’ characters, everyone has a flaw or two. Among Lainey’s new group of friends is her heartwarming, genuine bestie Amy. The scenes with these two were my absolute favorite, not only because Bertrand illustrates ‘girl’ talks so perfectly but because their relationship felt so real it’s as if it came to life as you read. This goes for Lainey’s other future relationships.
Though, Northbrook Academy is where the real mystery begins. It turns out that Northbrook is not all it seems, just as Lainey is not insane. Unknown to Lainey, some students and faculty alike also posses strange gifts. They are all part of a secret faction of people called Sententia. Amongst all this, she also has a unknown sponsor which ranks her with a Legacy status. It isn’t until Lainey meets Carter Penrose, a handsome eighteen year old who works at the local bookstore on campus, that she discovers who she is and what gift she has been bestowed. He is a mystery all on his own, and we all know a girl like a good mystery.
“I could have sworn that just as the whatever it was crashed downstairs, his eyes made a strange flash, becoming entirely dark in the center, surrounded by a pale, watery blue line.”
I must admit that Carter Penrose is now among my dozens of fantasy book boyfriends. He has everything and more, did I mention that he loves books, and he’s superbly attractive? That’s a real winner right there. He is also a very interesting character who has his own sheltered, heart-shattering secrets. Carter becomes a big fraction of Lainey’s life and helps her discover the mysteries of her family, the Sententia, and her gift. I could go on forever about the relationship dynamic between characters, and how they relate so well to how society is today (minus the paranormal) but then I’d be here all day. What I found ultimately captivating about this book was the foreshadowing that Bertrand would use, the way she wrote Lost in Thought was addicting and suspenseful, even if I wanted to stop (which I didn’t) I couldn’t.
“Welcome to Sententia, Miss Young. I hope we’ll be proud to call you one of us.”
As I got further into Lost in Thought, the story gets darker, and more disturbing – all the more to continue, right? The mystery of the Sententia really tugs the reader in: Who is Lainey’s sponsor and relatives? Are the Sententia people good? Who are the gifted? What’s Carter hiding? What does Lainey’s gift mean for her? All these questions enthralled me, I absolutely could not put this book down. Nothing ever comes simple for Lainey, there is always a wicked bump in the road which I enjoyed because not once did I grow tired or bored of the story.
Cara Bertrand tossed me into this twisted, winding labyrinth of a story which I cannot wait to continue in the second installment, Second Thoughts.
In all honesty, Lost in Thought should have come with a warning label. PROCEED WITH CAUTION: ADDICTION MAY OCCUR.
April 4, 2013
16 year old Lainey believes she is going crazy. She has visions of other people's murders when she touches an item, also causing her to faint and have migraines. She has seen many medical specialists for her condition (minus the visions, which she has told no one about)with no answers forth coming. It is recommended that she give up her nomadic life style with her artist god-mother, and take an anonymous legacy seat at a prestigious boarding school. Lainey is excited for the chance to finally be a regular teen, embracing normalcy with no visions. One day while in the popular teen hang out, the bookstore, she brushes up against a classmate and see's the girls death. This incident pushes Lainey on a quest for the truth as to who she is, who her parents really were, and what is going on at her new school. Nothing prepares Lainey for the challenges she faces as she comes to terms with who she is really and what she is capable of.
I liked the character of Lainey. She was strong, and not so wrapped up in teen drama and angst as some teen book characters can be. I liked how the author explained her mature attitude due to the fact she has mainly interacted with adults, as she and her aunt traveled all over the world. She is exposed to many teen bad choice scenarios, but she has a strong sense of self and makes her own choices even when being pressured. There were a few times when she acted so maturely and responsibly, that I was impressed because at 16 (maybe even now) I am not sure I would have stayed so calm. Also, her actions at the end of the book were surprising, showing she is a good person even when she did not have to be. There were a few times when she was so naive about certain situations or people, but that could also be attributed to her upbringing.
Carter the love interest was a bit more confusing a character. I am not sure I like him, because it seems like he has more he is hiding from Lainey, most likely not good. The ending especially confirmed my suspicious as to what Carter is really involved in. I did like the relationship between the two of them though, especially since she set the rules and said when to go and when they needed a break. It is rare to see a teen book character not get obsessed over a boy and lose all logic.
Amy was a great character, a good friend who brought comic relief as well as a touch of reality to Lainey's otherwise mixed up world. The other side characters had potential as well, from evil queen Alexis to ...Jenna. I won't go into Jenna now.
Overall, it was a really entertaining book. I look forward to reading more books in the series, especially with all the loose ends left at the end of the book, I need more.
I want to thank the author Cara Bertrand for giving me a copy of her book, which in no way influenced my opinion or my review of the book.
I liked the character of Lainey. She was strong, and not so wrapped up in teen drama and angst as some teen book characters can be. I liked how the author explained her mature attitude due to the fact she has mainly interacted with adults, as she and her aunt traveled all over the world. She is exposed to many teen bad choice scenarios, but she has a strong sense of self and makes her own choices even when being pressured. There were a few times when she acted so maturely and responsibly, that I was impressed because at 16 (maybe even now) I am not sure I would have stayed so calm. Also, her actions at the end of the book were surprising, showing she is a good person even when she did not have to be. There were a few times when she was so naive about certain situations or people, but that could also be attributed to her upbringing.
Carter the love interest was a bit more confusing a character. I am not sure I like him, because it seems like he has more he is hiding from Lainey, most likely not good. The ending especially confirmed my suspicious as to what Carter is really involved in. I did like the relationship between the two of them though, especially since she set the rules and said when to go and when they needed a break. It is rare to see a teen book character not get obsessed over a boy and lose all logic.
Amy was a great character, a good friend who brought comic relief as well as a touch of reality to Lainey's otherwise mixed up world. The other side characters had potential as well, from evil queen Alexis to ...Jenna. I won't go into Jenna now.
Overall, it was a really entertaining book. I look forward to reading more books in the series, especially with all the loose ends left at the end of the book, I need more.
I want to thank the author Cara Bertrand for giving me a copy of her book, which in no way influenced my opinion or my review of the book.
December 22, 2016
This made it onto my to-read list because boarding-school books tend to do that, but I'm afraid Mary Sue Lainey didn't do much for me, and neither did the plot.
It's a fun, if not especially unusual, premise: Lainey ends up at a school where a large proportion of the student population has some sort of...talent. They're Sententia. Lainey can, through objects, see people's deaths in both the past and the future. Other students have gifts that seems less grim but could arguably lead to more complex problems: one who can recognise people's gifts; one who can sense people's foremost desires; one with a photographic memory. It's the sort of combination that—especially when you consider that not everyone in the school is Sententia or knows that these gifts exist—could be the starting point for epic amounts of conflict.
But...the book doesn't take us there. Or rather, we get conflict, but it mostly comes down to hormones and boys and how perfect and pretty and special Lainey is. She's told over and over and over again, by person after person, how pretty she is; she reminds the reader repeatedly that she's tall and thin; when the prettiest girl in the school (a quasi-villain, naturally) is introduced, Lainey tells us not only that She was so perfect, I almost had to shield my eyes but also that Oddly, though, we didn't look entirely dissimilar (35). Humble-brag much? It just keeps coming and coming—the 'bad' characters hate her because she's so pretty and insta-popular and gets the most sought-after boy right away; said sought-after boy literally tells her '...you're special. Even more than we already thought' (192); one of the super-well-liked happy people in school immediately claims her as a best friend...so we have not only insta-love but also insta-friendship and insta-specialness. And I got bored.
I think the bigger problem I had with this was not so much that Lainey is such a Mary Sue but that the plot doesn't really go anywhere that doesn't involve romance. Where are the external forces? Where's the part of the plot where all those interesting powers come into play? Imagine being Brooke, with her ability to know what somebody most wants at a given point in time—it would be so interesting to see the world from her perspective for a little while. Or to see Alexis put her powers of persuasion to use to do more than try to get the boy. There's potential here—it just got lost somewhere in all the lace and hearts and swooning.
It's a fun, if not especially unusual, premise: Lainey ends up at a school where a large proportion of the student population has some sort of...talent. They're Sententia. Lainey can, through objects, see people's deaths in both the past and the future. Other students have gifts that seems less grim but could arguably lead to more complex problems: one who can recognise people's gifts; one who can sense people's foremost desires; one with a photographic memory. It's the sort of combination that—especially when you consider that not everyone in the school is Sententia or knows that these gifts exist—could be the starting point for epic amounts of conflict.
But...the book doesn't take us there. Or rather, we get conflict, but it mostly comes down to hormones and boys and how perfect and pretty and special Lainey is. She's told over and over and over again, by person after person, how pretty she is; she reminds the reader repeatedly that she's tall and thin; when the prettiest girl in the school (a quasi-villain, naturally) is introduced, Lainey tells us not only that She was so perfect, I almost had to shield my eyes but also that Oddly, though, we didn't look entirely dissimilar (35). Humble-brag much? It just keeps coming and coming—the 'bad' characters hate her because she's so pretty and insta-popular and gets the most sought-after boy right away; said sought-after boy literally tells her '...you're special. Even more than we already thought' (192); one of the super-well-liked happy people in school immediately claims her as a best friend...so we have not only insta-love but also insta-friendship and insta-specialness. And I got bored.
I think the bigger problem I had with this was not so much that Lainey is such a Mary Sue but that the plot doesn't really go anywhere that doesn't involve romance. Where are the external forces? Where's the part of the plot where all those interesting powers come into play? Imagine being Brooke, with her ability to know what somebody most wants at a given point in time—it would be so interesting to see the world from her perspective for a little while. Or to see Alexis put her powers of persuasion to use to do more than try to get the boy. There's potential here—it just got lost somewhere in all the lace and hearts and swooning.
April 18, 2014
4.5/5 stars...
Lainey Young is special. She has the ability to see how people have or will die. She suffers migraines and exhaustion, she believes she's quite literally crazy. The doctors know about the migraines, dizziness and fainting spells. What they don't know, what Lainey doesn't admit to anyone least of all herself, are the visions she has. Until she moves to Northbrook Academy where everyone has abilities similar to hers. Lainey isn't as crazy as she thinks, her ability is more commonly known as divination.
Lainey thrives at her new school and clicks with her roommate Amy from the start. She also begins a relationship with a former student who runs the bookstore by her school, Carter. Lainey, Amy, Carter and most of the students and teachers at the Academy are gifted, they are Sententia. Everyone has a gift or ability like Lainey, Carter has a photographic memory, among other things. He and Lainey really compliment each other. They are both smart and caring and together they delve into the mystery of Lainey's Legacy. Their romance isn't over the top passionate, it's sweet and gentle, much like the characters themselves. It just fits well for the story.
Just when Lainey thinks she's starting to get a hold on things, settling in so to speak, a couple of twists and turns leave her confused and betrayed. When friends become enemies and secrets come to light, Lainey doesn't know who to trust.
The book is written completely from Lainey's POV so it reads as a journey of self discovery more than anything else. While Lainey navigates her way through a new school, new friends and discovering more about her abilities and her past, there are other stories and mysteries evolving around her. And everything is woven together to create a true Paranormal Romance with a healthy dose of mystery and intrigue!
Bertrand delivered some deeply developed characters that were both other worldly and flawed, while keeping the storyline engaging for the most part. There were a couple of spots where I felt a little muddled, the plot slowed down to a crawl. But overall I loved the alternate reality aspect of this story that was slightly unique, and the romance between Lainey and Carter. They just made me smile!
Lainey Young is special. She has the ability to see how people have or will die. She suffers migraines and exhaustion, she believes she's quite literally crazy. The doctors know about the migraines, dizziness and fainting spells. What they don't know, what Lainey doesn't admit to anyone least of all herself, are the visions she has. Until she moves to Northbrook Academy where everyone has abilities similar to hers. Lainey isn't as crazy as she thinks, her ability is more commonly known as divination.
Lainey thrives at her new school and clicks with her roommate Amy from the start. She also begins a relationship with a former student who runs the bookstore by her school, Carter. Lainey, Amy, Carter and most of the students and teachers at the Academy are gifted, they are Sententia. Everyone has a gift or ability like Lainey, Carter has a photographic memory, among other things. He and Lainey really compliment each other. They are both smart and caring and together they delve into the mystery of Lainey's Legacy. Their romance isn't over the top passionate, it's sweet and gentle, much like the characters themselves. It just fits well for the story.
Just when Lainey thinks she's starting to get a hold on things, settling in so to speak, a couple of twists and turns leave her confused and betrayed. When friends become enemies and secrets come to light, Lainey doesn't know who to trust.
The book is written completely from Lainey's POV so it reads as a journey of self discovery more than anything else. While Lainey navigates her way through a new school, new friends and discovering more about her abilities and her past, there are other stories and mysteries evolving around her. And everything is woven together to create a true Paranormal Romance with a healthy dose of mystery and intrigue!
Bertrand delivered some deeply developed characters that were both other worldly and flawed, while keeping the storyline engaging for the most part. There were a couple of spots where I felt a little muddled, the plot slowed down to a crawl. But overall I loved the alternate reality aspect of this story that was slightly unique, and the romance between Lainey and Carter. They just made me smile!
July 21, 2013
*I was provided with a free copy of this book for the blog tour. Thank you!*
Hm… I have no words to tell you how much I loved this book! I’ve been interested to read it since I saw the beautiful cover and read the intriguing synopsis. It seemed like a very different book.
Which it’s true. “Lost in thought” is a very different book, with lots of new aspects toward the paranormal world. I loved the idea of The Senentia and everything involving it. I loved the Academy, the students, everything!
I was very excited when I started it and the book quickly pulled me in the story. The main character was too adorable to be able to “leave her”. It’s really easy to like her and get to know her. She reminded me of..well… my younger self. xD But she wasn’t the only character I adored. Carter… well, she was such a good boy! Charming, smart, respectful, caring, he won me over quickly.
It’s very easy to follow up the storyline. Though Carter and Lainey both have a complicated story, the author makes it easy for you to understand it and follow it. This is a think I loved about this book. No headaches because of a complicated story.
The mystery of Lainey’s Legacy made me forget about the world around me. I was very curious to find out more about her and about all these secrets surrounding her that sometimes I forgot how to breathe. The mystery becomes even more complicated as more secrets are revealed. “Lost in thought” is an excellent way to escape reality.
Cara makes you believe in her characters and her world. I loved her writing-style. Simple, yet elegant. It was very suitable for a special teenager like Lainey.
The book has a fast pace and many plot twists which will make you turn the page, wanting to find out more. I read the book in a couple of days because of this thing.
I am waiting for the second volume. I already miss Lainey and Carter and I can not wait to see where the story goes.
“Lost in thought” is definitely a book that I recommend! It will hook you, wrap you between her pages and won’t let you until the end. One of the best reads of this summer.
Rate: 5 stars out of 5. :)
Hm… I have no words to tell you how much I loved this book! I’ve been interested to read it since I saw the beautiful cover and read the intriguing synopsis. It seemed like a very different book.
Which it’s true. “Lost in thought” is a very different book, with lots of new aspects toward the paranormal world. I loved the idea of The Senentia and everything involving it. I loved the Academy, the students, everything!
I was very excited when I started it and the book quickly pulled me in the story. The main character was too adorable to be able to “leave her”. It’s really easy to like her and get to know her. She reminded me of..well… my younger self. xD But she wasn’t the only character I adored. Carter… well, she was such a good boy! Charming, smart, respectful, caring, he won me over quickly.
It’s very easy to follow up the storyline. Though Carter and Lainey both have a complicated story, the author makes it easy for you to understand it and follow it. This is a think I loved about this book. No headaches because of a complicated story.
The mystery of Lainey’s Legacy made me forget about the world around me. I was very curious to find out more about her and about all these secrets surrounding her that sometimes I forgot how to breathe. The mystery becomes even more complicated as more secrets are revealed. “Lost in thought” is an excellent way to escape reality.
Cara makes you believe in her characters and her world. I loved her writing-style. Simple, yet elegant. It was very suitable for a special teenager like Lainey.
The book has a fast pace and many plot twists which will make you turn the page, wanting to find out more. I read the book in a couple of days because of this thing.
I am waiting for the second volume. I already miss Lainey and Carter and I can not wait to see where the story goes.
“Lost in thought” is definitely a book that I recommend! It will hook you, wrap you between her pages and won’t let you until the end. One of the best reads of this summer.
Rate: 5 stars out of 5. :)
July 21, 2013
Lainey is gifted or cursed depending on how you want to look at it. She has the ability to see death, past and future. By an object or the person. She can see how they died or will die, shes had this ability for sometime now. In fact shes was unfortunate enough to see her parents death. They died when she was just a child in a motor vehicle accident, luckily Lainey wasnt with them but with her Aunt Tessa who took care of her from that day forward. Aunt Tessa isnt really her aunt but close enough.
Things for Lainey are getting bad the doctors cant explain her migraines, fainting or dizziness. They dont know about her visions of death. She can barely admit them to herself after all. After her last episode it is revealed to both Lainey and Aunt Tessa there is a place in a prestigious academy for Lainey. That she may attend as a legacy. Lainey immediately takes the offer, her father left her this option so nautrally she takes it.
Lainey basically falls in love with the place right away. Her roommate Amy is basically awesomesauce. Theres also a rather attractive former student who happens to partially own the bookstore across the street from her school. Carter is rather charming and he just BARELY missed my book boyfriend list. I needed MORE Carter.
Carter is gifted as well as most of the students and teachers. They are known as Sententia. Carter has a photographic memory which comes in really handy. As he also works for the Peceptum a society of sententias who believe in using their powers for good and destroying those who dont.
While Lost in Thought is a real page turner. Everyones gifts and the lore behind it all is fascinating, and really easy to get caught up in I found myself a little more than half way though the book when I wondered aloud haha. Much to the dismay of my hubby who thought I was talking to him.. WTF, where is this evil she must defeat. Because in 98% of the books theres some kinda evil. Only as I read on I discovered this book was a supernatural journey of self discovery. And yep there is evil its just not a main focus for the better part of the book.. Lost in Thought completely grabbed my attention and refused to let go!
Things for Lainey are getting bad the doctors cant explain her migraines, fainting or dizziness. They dont know about her visions of death. She can barely admit them to herself after all. After her last episode it is revealed to both Lainey and Aunt Tessa there is a place in a prestigious academy for Lainey. That she may attend as a legacy. Lainey immediately takes the offer, her father left her this option so nautrally she takes it.
Lainey basically falls in love with the place right away. Her roommate Amy is basically awesomesauce. Theres also a rather attractive former student who happens to partially own the bookstore across the street from her school. Carter is rather charming and he just BARELY missed my book boyfriend list. I needed MORE Carter.
Carter is gifted as well as most of the students and teachers. They are known as Sententia. Carter has a photographic memory which comes in really handy. As he also works for the Peceptum a society of sententias who believe in using their powers for good and destroying those who dont.
While Lost in Thought is a real page turner. Everyones gifts and the lore behind it all is fascinating, and really easy to get caught up in I found myself a little more than half way though the book when I wondered aloud haha. Much to the dismay of my hubby who thought I was talking to him.. WTF, where is this evil she must defeat. Because in 98% of the books theres some kinda evil. Only as I read on I discovered this book was a supernatural journey of self discovery. And yep there is evil its just not a main focus for the better part of the book.. Lost in Thought completely grabbed my attention and refused to let go!
April 18, 2014
OUT's Review
This book by this author was really fun to read. I loved it from the beginning to the very end.
The book is about a young girl that lost both her parents in a car accident so she has been living with her aunt and uncle. But the thing with Lainey is that she ends up having these bad migraine headaches but they also show her visions of how people will end up dying. Well her visions do come true. She thinks she is nuts and goes to so many doctors to try and figure it out but they can't help her. Well when she turned 16 they thought it would be good for her to go to a boarding school and try to live a normal life. Well when she arrives there she doesn't end up having visions or the horrible headaches. She feels like a normal teenager. Until she meets this gorgeous guy named Carter Penrose. All the girls want him and they will fight over him. It was like being in high school again.
This book is really good and it is a great read. If your looking for a book that remind you of Vampire Academy or the Spellbound series then you will love this book. If you want a romance with some paranormal things then this is the book from you. I see that it will be a series and I can't wait to read it.
After reading this book I wish I had these powers like Lainey had in the book but it might be a burden sometimes. Walking along and you end up being touched by someone and you received a instant headache and then a vision on how they die. It would be creepy. But the one thing you would have to ask yourself. Would you tell that person when and where they will die or do you just keep it a secret from them and let it happen. I don't know what I would choose. So take a chance on this book and you will thank me.
This book by this author was really fun to read. I loved it from the beginning to the very end.
The book is about a young girl that lost both her parents in a car accident so she has been living with her aunt and uncle. But the thing with Lainey is that she ends up having these bad migraine headaches but they also show her visions of how people will end up dying. Well her visions do come true. She thinks she is nuts and goes to so many doctors to try and figure it out but they can't help her. Well when she turned 16 they thought it would be good for her to go to a boarding school and try to live a normal life. Well when she arrives there she doesn't end up having visions or the horrible headaches. She feels like a normal teenager. Until she meets this gorgeous guy named Carter Penrose. All the girls want him and they will fight over him. It was like being in high school again.
This book is really good and it is a great read. If your looking for a book that remind you of Vampire Academy or the Spellbound series then you will love this book. If you want a romance with some paranormal things then this is the book from you. I see that it will be a series and I can't wait to read it.
After reading this book I wish I had these powers like Lainey had in the book but it might be a burden sometimes. Walking along and you end up being touched by someone and you received a instant headache and then a vision on how they die. It would be creepy. But the one thing you would have to ask yourself. Would you tell that person when and where they will die or do you just keep it a secret from them and let it happen. I don't know what I would choose. So take a chance on this book and you will thank me.
April 23, 2014
Lainey has thought she is going crazy for years. The doctors can’t find a reason why she is having migraines and passing out. They think she is just exhausted and needs to have a stable life instead of all the moving around she does with her aunt. But what Lainey doesn’t tell anyone is she can see how people are going to die or have died. With a gift she never knew she had she gets enrolled to Northbrook Academy. Lainey finally feels normal for the first time in her life and even makes some friends. But the school is not what it seems as the teachers and a good portion of the kids have gifts of their own. The people who have these gifts are called Sententia but none of them have gifts like Lainey. She needs to learn how to control her gift and where it came from and with the help of her friend Carter she is on her way to learning these secrets. But when secrets are discovered Lainey learns she is more special than she thought and that she could even be in danger.
Lainey is defiantly one of my favorite female characters this year. I loved learning more about her and her gift right along with her. She is smart, kind, and beautiful. But she is not conceited about it. Which I really liked about her. Carter is the boy all the girls want and it’s not hard to see why. He is smart, kind, charming, and so patient. Watching the relationship grow between Lainey and Carter is so sweet. There are a lot of other great characters but my favorite is Amy. She is just plain awesome and I loved every minute she was in the book.
The characters are all wonderful and the storyline flows well. I just really enjoyed the whole book and I can’t wait for the next one. Especially since the ending left me speechless. 4/5 Bloody Fangs
Lainey is defiantly one of my favorite female characters this year. I loved learning more about her and her gift right along with her. She is smart, kind, and beautiful. But she is not conceited about it. Which I really liked about her. Carter is the boy all the girls want and it’s not hard to see why. He is smart, kind, charming, and so patient. Watching the relationship grow between Lainey and Carter is so sweet. There are a lot of other great characters but my favorite is Amy. She is just plain awesome and I loved every minute she was in the book.
The characters are all wonderful and the storyline flows well. I just really enjoyed the whole book and I can’t wait for the next one. Especially since the ending left me speechless. 4/5 Bloody Fangs
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