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The Warner Grimoire #1
Bad Apple
When his adopted father mysteriously disappears, 14-year-old Simon Warner is the only one with the power to save him from the hidden world of magic and from the clutches of the evil and sinister Fellis Boeman.
As Boeman's minions hunt Simon down, an even darker force looms, threatening to transform his new found abilities and turn Simon into an evil being, bent on unleashing unspeakable horrors upon the world.
Simon must thwart the efforts of those out to destroy the only family he's ever known or risk unleashing a dark entity that will wreak havoc on all that Simon cares about.
"A great blend of paranormal, horror, and fantasy" - Freebooksy.com
"The first thing I noticed about The Warner Grimoire was the writing--it was awesome." The Bookscape Report
"From the first line of the novel, you get the feeling that The Bad Apple is probably going to be a somewhat intense read." - Looking for the Panacea
"The Warner Grimoire swept me into another world right from the start. A young adult fantasy with a likable protagonist who grows up quite a bit within the novel and who I hoped would be successful with his goals and his hopes." - Mindingspot.blogspot.com
As Boeman's minions hunt Simon down, an even darker force looms, threatening to transform his new found abilities and turn Simon into an evil being, bent on unleashing unspeakable horrors upon the world.
Simon must thwart the efforts of those out to destroy the only family he's ever known or risk unleashing a dark entity that will wreak havoc on all that Simon cares about.
"A great blend of paranormal, horror, and fantasy" - Freebooksy.com
"The first thing I noticed about The Warner Grimoire was the writing--it was awesome." The Bookscape Report
"From the first line of the novel, you get the feeling that The Bad Apple is probably going to be a somewhat intense read." - Looking for the Panacea
"The Warner Grimoire swept me into another world right from the start. A young adult fantasy with a likable protagonist who grows up quite a bit within the novel and who I hoped would be successful with his goals and his hopes." - Mindingspot.blogspot.com
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2013
10 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
Clay Held
3 books27 followersI'm a refugee from wild world of video game testing, currently a project manager passing my days in the wild (and very flat) plains of Central Illinois. Once upon a time I was the editor for Grassroots Literary Magazine at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where I earned my Bachelors of Arts in Creative Writing. Today I help make sure software ships on time, and at night I'm busy making things up and writing them down.
In my spare time (what is that again?) I like to read and cook and play with my cats and maintain my blog at www.clayheld.com. When the weather is right, I go storm spotting. Illinois is good like that.
In my spare time (what is that again?) I like to read and cook and play with my cats and maintain my blog at www.clayheld.com. When the weather is right, I go storm spotting. Illinois is good like that.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
July 11, 2013
'Bad Apple' is the first in a new YA Fantasy series about 14-year-old Simon finding out he's more than human.
This is very much an adventure novel, with lots of action and intrigue as Simon uncovers his destiny. I found Luke to be an interesting character and enjoyed Simon's interactions with him.
I didn't find myself compulsively page-turning with this one but I think that's because it is more geared up for younger readers. The action and adventure side of things was well done and entertaining but I didn't get overly invested in the characters themselves.
Overall I'd say this was a good read, worth picking up if you're into YA Action Adventure stories.
This is very much an adventure novel, with lots of action and intrigue as Simon uncovers his destiny. I found Luke to be an interesting character and enjoyed Simon's interactions with him.
I didn't find myself compulsively page-turning with this one but I think that's because it is more geared up for younger readers. The action and adventure side of things was well done and entertaining but I didn't get overly invested in the characters themselves.
Overall I'd say this was a good read, worth picking up if you're into YA Action Adventure stories.
June 24, 2017
I think this story is for a younger YA than what I usually read, but that alone wouldn't have been a problem. I was so confused for most of the story, though the ending did clear up a lot of things...which makes me wonder if I'd enjoy the book more if I were to reread it. However, I have to say the story isn't all too memorable and I'm not sure if I'll continue with the series.
May 14, 2015
Review originally posted to Author Unpublished: http://authorunpublished.wordpress.com - contains mild spoilers
I’ll admit, this book was a bit of a push for me. When I first picked up Bad Apple by Clay Held months ago, I didn’t enjoy it. A handful of pages in, I was ready to toss out the book. There were a few small typos—nothing too jarring—but mainly… the opening sequence just didn’t interest me. The narrative was wordy, awkwardly phrased, and it was hard to follow what was going on. In fact, other than providing Simon with a fear of water, the whole opening sequence didn’t seem to have any impact on the story as a whole. It was a bit like a needless prologue, and it bored me.
Months passed, and determined not to let this book become lost in the depths of my TBR pile, I picked it back up… desperately hoping that the second chapter would be better. To my surprise, it was. A lot better. The story quickly developed into a gripping, magic-filled adventure for 14 year old Simon Warner, and was filled with colorful characters. I’ll admit, I got sucked in.
I loved the character of Nathan—he was probably my favorite—and he reminded me of a character out of a comical wild-west drama. I mean, how do you not love a man who walks brazenly into a room and introduces himself as: “Nathan Alan Tamerlane, born in a summer storm, raised in the rain.” Likewise, I’ll admit some affection towards Penny, Luke, and the adorable Malik. Were all the characters as entertaining? No. There was a fair share of one-off characters that showed up, introduced themselves, and were never mentioned again. This includes Molly and Zoey, the two women in Simon’s life. They show up in the first couple of chapters of the book, and don’t reappear until the very last chapter. Frankly, by the time their names were mentioned again, I’d forgotten who they were.
For the most part, the story was well written. It kept a decent pace, the characters were interesting, and the world building was well fleshed out. Unfortunately, the book wasn’t all rainbows and puppies in that department. There was a lot to this book that wasn’t explained or resolved. In the end, the plot didn’t feel resolved, and it didn’t feel like Simon and his friends had actually accomplished anything. Other than rescuing Sam…. everything was left open. It was a bit of a disappointment in that regard. I really wish more had been explained or resolved in a way that made the ending feel more complete. I understand the need to leave the plot open for future books in the series—but the book felt like a bit of a goose chase. Simon’s adventure had him running around all over the place, learning new things and meeting new people, but he didn’t accomplish anything. He eventually returned home and things went back to normal. It wasn’t satisfying.
Overall, I liked the book. It wasn’t the best YA fantasy book I’ve ever read—in fact, it’s probably better suited to the middle-grade crowd. Simon wasn’t a super intelligent character, and he had a tendency to bumble along through the story, not understanding what was going on or listening to what anyone told him. This certainly wasn’t what I’d call an intellectual read. The novel had some definite flaws, but I did enjoy the adventure. Would I read it again? Maybe. I’ll admit, there were some times when I got lost and began to skim, and another read-through might give me a more solid opinion of the story. Would I recommend it? Yes. I think so. The series holds a lot of promise, and it has some really great characters. I’d suggest this story for anyone who enjoys middle-grade fantasy adventures. It won’t be for everyone, but it is an entertaining read.
I’ll admit, this book was a bit of a push for me. When I first picked up Bad Apple by Clay Held months ago, I didn’t enjoy it. A handful of pages in, I was ready to toss out the book. There were a few small typos—nothing too jarring—but mainly… the opening sequence just didn’t interest me. The narrative was wordy, awkwardly phrased, and it was hard to follow what was going on. In fact, other than providing Simon with a fear of water, the whole opening sequence didn’t seem to have any impact on the story as a whole. It was a bit like a needless prologue, and it bored me.
Months passed, and determined not to let this book become lost in the depths of my TBR pile, I picked it back up… desperately hoping that the second chapter would be better. To my surprise, it was. A lot better. The story quickly developed into a gripping, magic-filled adventure for 14 year old Simon Warner, and was filled with colorful characters. I’ll admit, I got sucked in.
I loved the character of Nathan—he was probably my favorite—and he reminded me of a character out of a comical wild-west drama. I mean, how do you not love a man who walks brazenly into a room and introduces himself as: “Nathan Alan Tamerlane, born in a summer storm, raised in the rain.” Likewise, I’ll admit some affection towards Penny, Luke, and the adorable Malik. Were all the characters as entertaining? No. There was a fair share of one-off characters that showed up, introduced themselves, and were never mentioned again. This includes Molly and Zoey, the two women in Simon’s life. They show up in the first couple of chapters of the book, and don’t reappear until the very last chapter. Frankly, by the time their names were mentioned again, I’d forgotten who they were.
For the most part, the story was well written. It kept a decent pace, the characters were interesting, and the world building was well fleshed out. Unfortunately, the book wasn’t all rainbows and puppies in that department. There was a lot to this book that wasn’t explained or resolved. In the end, the plot didn’t feel resolved, and it didn’t feel like Simon and his friends had actually accomplished anything. Other than rescuing Sam…. everything was left open. It was a bit of a disappointment in that regard. I really wish more had been explained or resolved in a way that made the ending feel more complete. I understand the need to leave the plot open for future books in the series—but the book felt like a bit of a goose chase. Simon’s adventure had him running around all over the place, learning new things and meeting new people, but he didn’t accomplish anything. He eventually returned home and things went back to normal. It wasn’t satisfying.
Overall, I liked the book. It wasn’t the best YA fantasy book I’ve ever read—in fact, it’s probably better suited to the middle-grade crowd. Simon wasn’t a super intelligent character, and he had a tendency to bumble along through the story, not understanding what was going on or listening to what anyone told him. This certainly wasn’t what I’d call an intellectual read. The novel had some definite flaws, but I did enjoy the adventure. Would I read it again? Maybe. I’ll admit, there were some times when I got lost and began to skim, and another read-through might give me a more solid opinion of the story. Would I recommend it? Yes. I think so. The series holds a lot of promise, and it has some really great characters. I’d suggest this story for anyone who enjoys middle-grade fantasy adventures. It won’t be for everyone, but it is an entertaining read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2014
Many years later, Simon would look back and remember how quiet it was the first time he died.
Well. That was sudden. From the first line of the novel, you get the feeling that The Bad Apple is probably going to be a somewhat intense read. Full of mystery and action, this novel is one that middle grade readers would probably really enjoy.
Simon, whose parents are wizards, has been raised as a normal non-magical human (so tempted to write Muggle...) his entire life. One day, his adopted father is kidnapped, and he's thrust into this unknown world of magic. There is some very nice world building- the rules of the magic were quite interesting, and clearly well thought out. The many mysteries throughout help build up the pace- who exactly are Simon's parents? What is this Other Voice which keeps speaking to Simon? Who are the Folk?
Simon as a character was pretty typical of a middle grade protagonist, except that he was ridiculously impulsive for someone introduced to a whole new world with different rules. You'd think he'd at least be a bit cautious, and think about things before acting, but nope. The supporting characters were also pretty interesting, with none of them being particularly cliched or annoying.
Towards the end, there are some major action scenes. High tension and, strangely, lots of running away (which, you know, faced with an evil wizard and his gazillion minions is probably quite reasonable). There is an interesting ending, which isn't a cliffhanger, but there is still the promise of more adventure to come and more mysteries to be solved. (Also, still waiting on finding out what the Other Voice is...) Overall, I'd say that this is a nice read for younger readers.
Well. That was sudden. From the first line of the novel, you get the feeling that The Bad Apple is probably going to be a somewhat intense read. Full of mystery and action, this novel is one that middle grade readers would probably really enjoy.
Simon, whose parents are wizards, has been raised as a normal non-magical human (so tempted to write Muggle...) his entire life. One day, his adopted father is kidnapped, and he's thrust into this unknown world of magic. There is some very nice world building- the rules of the magic were quite interesting, and clearly well thought out. The many mysteries throughout help build up the pace- who exactly are Simon's parents? What is this Other Voice which keeps speaking to Simon? Who are the Folk?
Simon as a character was pretty typical of a middle grade protagonist, except that he was ridiculously impulsive for someone introduced to a whole new world with different rules. You'd think he'd at least be a bit cautious, and think about things before acting, but nope. The supporting characters were also pretty interesting, with none of them being particularly cliched or annoying.
Towards the end, there are some major action scenes. High tension and, strangely, lots of running away (which, you know, faced with an evil wizard and his gazillion minions is probably quite reasonable). There is an interesting ending, which isn't a cliffhanger, but there is still the promise of more adventure to come and more mysteries to be solved. (Also, still waiting on finding out what the Other Voice is...) Overall, I'd say that this is a nice read for younger readers.
July 31, 2013
Reviewed on Lili Lost in a Book
I LOVE anything magical and witchy...such as this book :)
Simon was a normal kid up until he died. Yep, that's right...dead. Shortly after that traumatizing incident, things go from bad to worse. First, a pair of strangers show up: and old friend of his dad's and threatening dude almost straight out of Simon's nightmares. Next, his home is set on fire and his dad Sam goes missing. Simon is suddenly thrust into this world full of magic he had no idea existed, fighting for his life and soul. Not to mention he will do anything it takes to get Sam back and find out more about his birth parents...with the help of magic or otherwise.
I thought Bad Apple had a great story going on, though it felt slow moving at times. I like it when stories are action packed...not that this one didn't have any action, because it did! In fact, it started off with action! It's what sucked me in.
There was also a great diversity of characters.I really liked Nathan and his lady friend. Simon was great, too. He was a very brave kid, though he sometimes did very stupid things, lol. I really liked Penny too. Luke...he was just annoying, though he really surprised me there at the end..
Overall, I thought it was a great read! I think this would be perfect for kids who are in the MG age group and love a little magic in their reading ;)
I LOVE anything magical and witchy...such as this book :)
Simon was a normal kid up until he died. Yep, that's right...dead. Shortly after that traumatizing incident, things go from bad to worse. First, a pair of strangers show up: and old friend of his dad's and threatening dude almost straight out of Simon's nightmares. Next, his home is set on fire and his dad Sam goes missing. Simon is suddenly thrust into this world full of magic he had no idea existed, fighting for his life and soul. Not to mention he will do anything it takes to get Sam back and find out more about his birth parents...with the help of magic or otherwise.
I thought Bad Apple had a great story going on, though it felt slow moving at times. I like it when stories are action packed...not that this one didn't have any action, because it did! In fact, it started off with action! It's what sucked me in.
There was also a great diversity of characters.I really liked Nathan and his lady friend. Simon was great, too. He was a very brave kid, though he sometimes did very stupid things, lol. I really liked Penny too. Luke...he was just annoying, though he really surprised me there at the end..
Overall, I thought it was a great read! I think this would be perfect for kids who are in the MG age group and love a little magic in their reading ;)
July 10, 2013
The Warner Grimoire swept me into another world right from the start. A young adult fantasy with a likable protagonist who grows up quite a bit within the novel and who I hoped would be successful with his goals and his hopes.
The characters were well-developed. Some I really liked and others I just despised. If the character can conjure up an emotion within me, good or bad, then I know I connected on some level. The world-building, though, is where the Warner Grimoire shined for me. With the monsters, the magic, and the sub-plotting, I was transfixed with the Freemancers and Darrow's followers and his agenda. I found it refreshing that this is all based in Mid-America. If you enjoy supernatural, fantasy novels that are page-turning, brimming with eccentric characters and a solid plot, then pick up the Warner Grimoire!
The characters were well-developed. Some I really liked and others I just despised. If the character can conjure up an emotion within me, good or bad, then I know I connected on some level. The world-building, though, is where the Warner Grimoire shined for me. With the monsters, the magic, and the sub-plotting, I was transfixed with the Freemancers and Darrow's followers and his agenda. I found it refreshing that this is all based in Mid-America. If you enjoy supernatural, fantasy novels that are page-turning, brimming with eccentric characters and a solid plot, then pick up the Warner Grimoire!
August 5, 2013
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a fun book, filled with magic and great characters - they're easy to love, or hate, as the case may be.
We follow Simon as he's thrown from a "normal" life into a world where anything can happen, a place where agreeing to things without reading the fine print has consequences, and people aren't always what they seem.
Simon might be easy to root for, but he does some pretty dumb things. After all, he's a kid in a world he doesn't understand.
One of the best things about the book: It's the first in a series, so we get more.
One of the worst things about the book: It's the first in a series, so we don't get the whole story yet.
This is a fun book, filled with magic and great characters - they're easy to love, or hate, as the case may be.
We follow Simon as he's thrown from a "normal" life into a world where anything can happen, a place where agreeing to things without reading the fine print has consequences, and people aren't always what they seem.
Simon might be easy to root for, but he does some pretty dumb things. After all, he's a kid in a world he doesn't understand.
One of the best things about the book: It's the first in a series, so we get more.
One of the worst things about the book: It's the first in a series, so we don't get the whole story yet.
May 9, 2013
The story of a teenage boy who gets thrown head first into a world of magic and monsters. Sometimes it's not so obvious who is monster and who is good. This journey takes place in America's heartland, which separates it from other magic stories in a good way. You'll never look at The Arch the same again.
Can't wait to see more from this budding series.
Can't wait to see more from this budding series.
October 9, 2013
Not bad. Feels more like a YA novel (nothing wrong with that) in the way things tend to work out. Resolution is... interesting and unexpectedish but I wasn't *really* compelled by it. Magic system could be interesting but I'd like to know more about it, but then I'm a "hard magic" fan in general, and this is far on the soft side.
Enjoyable "secret heritage" story with a few interesting twists.
Enjoyable "secret heritage" story with a few interesting twists.
January 1, 2018
Great entre to YA fiction!
Held's first book builds a solid base for future novels in The Warner Grimoire world. It is very much a page turner, with fantastic sites and an intriguing magic system. As a fledgling author there are a few bumps along the way, but that never stopped me from wanting to know what happens next. Definitely looking forward to the next in the series!!!
Held's first book builds a solid base for future novels in The Warner Grimoire world. It is very much a page turner, with fantastic sites and an intriguing magic system. As a fledgling author there are a few bumps along the way, but that never stopped me from wanting to know what happens next. Definitely looking forward to the next in the series!!!
January 7, 2014
Great book! Interesting settings,characters,and plot. I can't wait to read part two to see what happens next. Kinda invested in the main character now and know there's more to come. I won my copy of this book on good reads first reads givaways.
July 6, 2013
This just wasn't my type of book. I made it about half way through and was really left with more questions than answers. I might pick the book back up later.
December 18, 2016
Another generic teenager book. Boring. Unmemorable.
December 10, 2013
Review to come
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews