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Trusted #1
Trusted
When fifteen year old Tegan Summers catches the eye of local radio personality Rake Johnson, she finally feels like a normal teenage girl. Everything about their relationship feels perfect, except for the unexplained presence that makes her believe she should stay away.
On the same day she meets Rake, another man makes his way into her life: Officer Damien Sanders. His mysterious and often intense warnings urge Tegan to trust him and to end her relationship with Rake. As she works to uncover Damien's motive, she begins to realize that he may end up playing a vital role in her future.
Discover what Tegan must do in TRUSTED, the debut novel by author Taylor L. Stimac.
Would you trust a stranger?
On the same day she meets Rake, another man makes his way into her life: Officer Damien Sanders. His mysterious and often intense warnings urge Tegan to trust him and to end her relationship with Rake. As she works to uncover Damien's motive, she begins to realize that he may end up playing a vital role in her future.
Discover what Tegan must do in TRUSTED, the debut novel by author Taylor L. Stimac.
Would you trust a stranger?
- GenresFiction
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
1 person is currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Taylor L. Stimac
2 books16 followersTaylor L. Stimac is a Young Adult novelist with a passion for storytelling. She graduated from East Central University in Ada, OK with a Master's degree in Educational Technology. She's been an English teacher since 2010, but has since found that her passion lies in writing prose rather than teaching it. When she's not writing, Taylor enjoys painting, listening to music, and crafting. She resides in Arkansas with her husband and daughter. Find out more at www.taylorlstimac.wordpress.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 5, 2013
You can find this review and others on my co-owned blog Boricuan Bookworms
Ebook copy provided by author in exchange of honest review
I have no idea how to review this book. I've been procrastinating a bit on doing it...
Ebook copy provided by author in exchange of honest review
I have no idea how to review this book. I've been procrastinating a bit on doing it...
I loved Tegan's voice, because it felt very teenager-ish and was easy to read. Though at times she felt really immature, I let it pass because she's a teenager, and teenagers some times behave like that.
I liked the book blurb. It kept me thinking "What is going to happen?" Even before I started the book. Which made me be more disappointed with the story in general.
I don't always like to make bad reviews, or reviews that don't really praise that much some books. Written stories are a form of art, and these are subjective and each person differs on what they think of it. We're all humans, and we're all different. I might not like it, but another person does, so have that in mind when you read this.
This book wasn't my kind of book. From the first chapter I knew that. But it was interesting. I'll praise the author in saying her pacing was amazing, that it kept me in the mystery of what was going to happen and a big BOOM at the end. Unfortunately, this never came, or at least not as expected.
I didn't like much the Christian aspect of the story. I believe in God, and all that was mentioned in this book had good intentions to teens who believe, who doubt, and who don't believe; I find that good of the author. But I don't like to read it in books, at least not when I don't expect it. I had read a book that was Young Adult Christian called The Jerk Theory. I expected a bit the Christian aspect, but here in the blurb there's no mention that this is a major role in the story.
The secondary characters were good. I liked a bit how the parents were portrayed. Tegan's friend was a bit off and too cliche of a friend. But she was okay, because there are characters in other books that are like that, and in real life. So I let it pass, and started to like her a bit too.
So far here I'd give it 4 stars. Now the worst part...
Throughout the book I kept waiting for the big thing of Damien. There's a preface in the book that just makes you wonder what is his purpose, why's he doing what he's doing, and so on. But I never know what is going on. It's good that the author wants to keep the reader guessing, but I found it to be too much. My mental Sherlock kept making guesses but never got to anything. A lot of things were left unresolved in the book that just frustrates me. I kept guessing and waiting and expecting a lot of big awesome things to happen in the end, but none of it came. The climax was so short and limp that for a moment I had to check if I was really in the end of the book and not the middle.
I also didn't like that I didn't saw much of a paranormal aspect in the story. Only a minimal part. I kept thinking that Damien was going to keep appearing, be an important character, but he barely showed up, his case, and mission, all of him instead of being part of the main plot, they felt more like minor sub-plots, lots of them weaved with the "important one". What is the "important plot"? Tegan's and Rake's relationship. Don't get me wrong, it was kind of good. Rake was a weird guy, being extremely romantic to the really fictional level, he made me really suspicious of his actions. But if it wasn't because I kept expecting Damien, I would have like the book. Take only how Tegan and Rake have a relationship in Summer Vacations, a dad that's really protective of his little girl, the supportive mom, and a troubled best friend, then you had a great story! Still, it wasn't that, so in that aspect, I didn't like it.
I want to read the second book, believe me. I was left so unsatisfied with this one, I want to know what'll happen in the next one. I want to know if things get a bit clearer now and I know what the heck is happening.
Once again anyone reading this, the written story is subjective. I might not liked this book, but maybe you do. Just because I didn't like it does it mean its bad. For being Taylor L Stimac's first novel, putting aside the things I didn't like, i think it's a great debut to begin her writing career. I enjoyed the descriptions given by her and the emotions, showing instead of telling in the appropriate times, and teen language. In that aspect I clap for her because it was really good.
Rating: 3 stars
December 22, 2018
I loved, loved , loved this book! It was so good! Captivating story. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone.
August 16, 2013
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Simply put, Trusted is a very sweet teenage romance. Girl meets boy. Girl falls in love with boy. Girl is haunted by spirit warning her to stay away from boy. As with all novels there were some good parts and some not so good parts. Let's get the not so good parts out of the way first.
Not so good:
1. There were quite a few grammatical errors in the copy of this book that I received. They weren't huge, in your face errors that make you want to put the book down and not pick it back up (is anybody else that way?). Mostly misplaced commas and some left out words. They were small enough and far enough in between to not take away from the story but still often enough to make them worth a mention.
2. I was a little put off by the paranormal elements to this book. The early scenes with the shadow and the illuminated figure felt a little forced. They didn't seem to flow as well as the rest of the story. Mostly, they just left me confused. They did, however, get a little better as the book progressed.
3. What was up with Officer Damien? I understand that his character served a purpose and I liked the way that he added to the plot's creepy factor but we get little to no information about him other than the prologue. I would have liked a little more info. Why was he warning Tegan? What was it that she had to stay away from? Even a small hint would have given his character more purpose. As it was he just ended up being a super hot, super annoying extra. Also, this man was an adult...am I right? I mean, he was a police officer which to me implies adult. What was he doing chasing around a 16 year old girl claiming to love her. The fact that he was an adult and she was a child made their kissing scenes just weird to me. I felt like they were inappropriate. Again, a little back story or hint into Officer Damien's purpose might have cleared up this confusion.
With that being said, there were A LOT of things that I DID like about Trusted. Tegan Summers is a smart, average (or so she thinks), insecure, funny 16 year old girl. The kind of girl that you wish was your best friend in high school. Rake is her not so average, slightly older teenage boyfriend. For starters, could Rake be any more perfect? He oozes confidence and sex appeal. He's respectful, polite and charming. Not to mention, the most romantic 19 year old I've ever read about.
Moving on, Tegan herself was a nice surprise. It was refreshing to read about a teenager with morals and values for a change. She wasn't promiscuous, she didn't drink or smoke, she didn't even use profanity. Not even once. And yet, she still doesn't come across as a prude or boring. At the same time, she doesn't make excuses for herself. She is who she is and she's fine with that. To me, that was very cool. She didn't want to be something that she wasn't. Shout out to her parents whom I loved. They were just the right amount of supportive and loving but not pushovers by any means.
I should also mention that I found this book to be pretty funny in some spots. I laughed out loud when Tegan and Rake were in the truck on their first date talking about personalized name merchandise. Trust me, with a name like Shelby, I could totally relate!
And finally, (last not but definitely not least), THAT ENDING...perfect! Just when you think you know what's going on...BAM. Now I feel like I have to read the sequel, Destined. I MUST know what happens to Tegan and Rake next.
In the end, I ended up giving this book 4 out 5 stars (or a B if you will). It was a very fast and very easy read. I picked it up thinking that I would read the first chapter before bed and ended up halfway through it and after 3 am. This is one of the few YA books that I've read that I wouldn't mind my daughter reading. Parents, if you're looking for a good wholesome yet riveting read for your teen here's one you can hand them without having to look over their shoulder the whole time. Or read first, if you're anything like me. Unless you're reading it for yourself because let's face it, it's pretty good. There are no sex scenes besides the occasional kissing but even that is tame and there is no profanity. Teens: If you're looking for a good love story with a hint of the paranormal...one with girls that you can relate to (Tegan and Sara) and boys that you can swoon over (Rake!), read this book! You'll love it.
(*This review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl*)
Simply put, Trusted is a very sweet teenage romance. Girl meets boy. Girl falls in love with boy. Girl is haunted by spirit warning her to stay away from boy. As with all novels there were some good parts and some not so good parts. Let's get the not so good parts out of the way first.
Not so good:
1. There were quite a few grammatical errors in the copy of this book that I received. They weren't huge, in your face errors that make you want to put the book down and not pick it back up (is anybody else that way?). Mostly misplaced commas and some left out words. They were small enough and far enough in between to not take away from the story but still often enough to make them worth a mention.
2. I was a little put off by the paranormal elements to this book. The early scenes with the shadow and the illuminated figure felt a little forced. They didn't seem to flow as well as the rest of the story. Mostly, they just left me confused. They did, however, get a little better as the book progressed.
3. What was up with Officer Damien? I understand that his character served a purpose and I liked the way that he added to the plot's creepy factor but we get little to no information about him other than the prologue. I would have liked a little more info. Why was he warning Tegan? What was it that she had to stay away from? Even a small hint would have given his character more purpose. As it was he just ended up being a super hot, super annoying extra. Also, this man was an adult...am I right? I mean, he was a police officer which to me implies adult. What was he doing chasing around a 16 year old girl claiming to love her. The fact that he was an adult and she was a child made their kissing scenes just weird to me. I felt like they were inappropriate. Again, a little back story or hint into Officer Damien's purpose might have cleared up this confusion.
With that being said, there were A LOT of things that I DID like about Trusted. Tegan Summers is a smart, average (or so she thinks), insecure, funny 16 year old girl. The kind of girl that you wish was your best friend in high school. Rake is her not so average, slightly older teenage boyfriend. For starters, could Rake be any more perfect? He oozes confidence and sex appeal. He's respectful, polite and charming. Not to mention, the most romantic 19 year old I've ever read about.
Moving on, Tegan herself was a nice surprise. It was refreshing to read about a teenager with morals and values for a change. She wasn't promiscuous, she didn't drink or smoke, she didn't even use profanity. Not even once. And yet, she still doesn't come across as a prude or boring. At the same time, she doesn't make excuses for herself. She is who she is and she's fine with that. To me, that was very cool. She didn't want to be something that she wasn't. Shout out to her parents whom I loved. They were just the right amount of supportive and loving but not pushovers by any means.
I should also mention that I found this book to be pretty funny in some spots. I laughed out loud when Tegan and Rake were in the truck on their first date talking about personalized name merchandise. Trust me, with a name like Shelby, I could totally relate!
And finally, (last not but definitely not least), THAT ENDING...perfect! Just when you think you know what's going on...BAM. Now I feel like I have to read the sequel, Destined. I MUST know what happens to Tegan and Rake next.
In the end, I ended up giving this book 4 out 5 stars (or a B if you will). It was a very fast and very easy read. I picked it up thinking that I would read the first chapter before bed and ended up halfway through it and after 3 am. This is one of the few YA books that I've read that I wouldn't mind my daughter reading. Parents, if you're looking for a good wholesome yet riveting read for your teen here's one you can hand them without having to look over their shoulder the whole time. Or read first, if you're anything like me. Unless you're reading it for yourself because let's face it, it's pretty good. There are no sex scenes besides the occasional kissing but even that is tame and there is no profanity. Teens: If you're looking for a good love story with a hint of the paranormal...one with girls that you can relate to (Tegan and Sara) and boys that you can swoon over (Rake!), read this book! You'll love it.
(*This review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl*)
July 26, 2013
More reviews can be seen on my shared blog, Boricuan Bookworms
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Oh boy. I’m not even sure how I should rate this book. I’ve been trying to review it for a long time, and I can’t coherently explain how I feel.
What I liked about this book:
I liked the premise of the story. I liked the idea of a suspenseful romance, with a little bit of paranormal thrown in. I’ve always loved coming of age stories, so this one was right up my alley.
Tegan was somewhat nice -up to a point, which I will explain later on- and relatable –again, up to a point. I wanted to completely like her, but something always held me back.
I LOVED Damien. Ohmygod, Damien was a smoking hot character, and so complex! He was full of secrets that I was dying to hear. I actually wanted to read more chapters in his POV, instead of Tegan’s.
There were plenty of funny moments, and some secondary characters were nice to read about.
I loved the pacing, because it always hinted towards an amazing climax that I really wanted to see (more on this later).
What I didn’t like about this book:
There weren’t enough paranormal elements for me to feel satisfied. Sure, the prologue captivated me with it, and the first few chapters had some paranormal, but in comparison to the other sub-plots in the story, paranormal was not a main theme.
Tegan’s characterization. When she finally reached her 16th birthday, I found myself constantly gritting my teeth and rolling my eyes at her behavior. I’m 18 years old –only two years older than her- and I felt like I was reading the thoughts of a 12-year-old. She was so immature at times! I honestly can say that I wished for some character development from her.
Rake. I HATED Rake. If this book has a Love triangle, then I will forever be TEAM DAMIEN. Rake could throw himself off a cliff, and I’d be happy. Rake is 19 years old, and he’s dating an immature 16-year-old girl, who’s never dated before. Rake is an attractive and well-known guy, so why in the world would he want to date Tegan? I smell bad intentions.
I also did not enjoy the way that Tegan and Rake’s relationship took center stage to the actual plot. I wanted to know what was happening to Damien and why he was doing those things to Tegan, but I felt as if my questions weren’t answered.
I didn’t really enjoy the Christian theme in this book (I actually did not know there was any sense of Christianity before reading). I’m a Christian, but I don’t like reading about it. I feel like this book took on the mistakenly assumed “Christians are prudes” attitude. Tegan’s parents are basically portrayed as overprotective Christians who don’t let their daughter listen to certain music or wear certain clothes because they’re Christian. I could’ve done without that. I would rather have seen parents that aren’t prudes just because they’re Christian.
Remember that I had said earlier that I loved the pacing because it hinted towards a climax? Well the climax never happened...
... but I DID enjoy the idea of a climax that almost was.
Overall, this story is good if you can ignore the “introductory feel” that it gives off. I’m pretty confident that the second book will be much better, because we’ll be past all the secrets and finally find out what the heck is going on.
Rating: 3 stars
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Oh boy. I’m not even sure how I should rate this book. I’ve been trying to review it for a long time, and I can’t coherently explain how I feel.
What I liked about this book:
I liked the premise of the story. I liked the idea of a suspenseful romance, with a little bit of paranormal thrown in. I’ve always loved coming of age stories, so this one was right up my alley.
Tegan was somewhat nice -up to a point, which I will explain later on- and relatable –again, up to a point. I wanted to completely like her, but something always held me back.
I LOVED Damien. Ohmygod, Damien was a smoking hot character, and so complex! He was full of secrets that I was dying to hear. I actually wanted to read more chapters in his POV, instead of Tegan’s.
There were plenty of funny moments, and some secondary characters were nice to read about.
I loved the pacing, because it always hinted towards an amazing climax that I really wanted to see (more on this later).
What I didn’t like about this book:
There weren’t enough paranormal elements for me to feel satisfied. Sure, the prologue captivated me with it, and the first few chapters had some paranormal, but in comparison to the other sub-plots in the story, paranormal was not a main theme.
Tegan’s characterization. When she finally reached her 16th birthday, I found myself constantly gritting my teeth and rolling my eyes at her behavior. I’m 18 years old –only two years older than her- and I felt like I was reading the thoughts of a 12-year-old. She was so immature at times! I honestly can say that I wished for some character development from her.
Rake. I HATED Rake. If this book has a Love triangle, then I will forever be TEAM DAMIEN. Rake could throw himself off a cliff, and I’d be happy. Rake is 19 years old, and he’s dating an immature 16-year-old girl, who’s never dated before. Rake is an attractive and well-known guy, so why in the world would he want to date Tegan? I smell bad intentions.
I also did not enjoy the way that Tegan and Rake’s relationship took center stage to the actual plot. I wanted to know what was happening to Damien and why he was doing those things to Tegan, but I felt as if my questions weren’t answered.
I didn’t really enjoy the Christian theme in this book (I actually did not know there was any sense of Christianity before reading). I’m a Christian, but I don’t like reading about it. I feel like this book took on the mistakenly assumed “Christians are prudes” attitude. Tegan’s parents are basically portrayed as overprotective Christians who don’t let their daughter listen to certain music or wear certain clothes because they’re Christian. I could’ve done without that. I would rather have seen parents that aren’t prudes just because they’re Christian.
Remember that I had said earlier that I loved the pacing because it hinted towards a climax? Well the climax never happened...
... but I DID enjoy the idea of a climax that almost was.
Overall, this story is good if you can ignore the “introductory feel” that it gives off. I’m pretty confident that the second book will be much better, because we’ll be past all the secrets and finally find out what the heck is going on.
Rating: 3 stars
February 9, 2015
Read more reviews like this at http://lovelybooksblog.blogspot.com!
Trusted is a very difficult novel to review; on one hand it was very well written and entertaining in its own right. However, on the other hand there were just some parts of this story that made me uncomfortable and others that made me unable to take any of this story seriously.
The strongest part of this novel was how well written it was. There were a few awkward sentences here and there but overall the story was very readable and flowed really well. It was never a challenge for me to understand what the author was saying and I could tell that Stimac put a lot of effort into writing this novel and she really did do a fantastic job with the writing itself. Even though I didn’t sense much of a plot the characters were very well developed and Stimac threw in enough events to keep the novel interesting. I was never bored by this novel, but there were just some aspects that I was a little uncomfortable with.
Despite how well written the novel was let’s start by addressing the things that I just couldn’t take seriously about this novel. The number one being the age difference between Tegan and Rake. When the story starts Tegan is fifteen, and though she later turns sixteen during the novel, that is still a huge age difference from Rake’s nineteen years. While three (pretty much four) years isn’t much in someone’s twenties or thirties it’s a huge difference when the characters are in their teens. Not only is it a huge age difference but Tegan’s parents aren’t even the least bit concerned that their daughter is dating a much older boy, as soon as she turned the magical sixteen it seemed that her parents didn’t care at all who she went out with. The age difference between Tegan and Rake is the same as that between me and my sister and I know that I wouldn’t be okay with my sister dating a boy my age; maybe it’s just me but even though the romance was cute the age difference was just always in the back of my mind bothering me.
Then we are introduced to officer Damien Sanders. While the relationship between Rake and Tegan kind of bothered me because of the age difference I admit that it was cute and in the end I really did like Rake’s personality. Officer Sanders is where this novel really started to make me really uncomfortable. A full on stalker complete with the creepy personality and obsession with Tegan he was the number one reason I gave this novel the rating I did. The worst part was that not only was Officer Sanders a creepy stalker who was “in love” with Tegan but she felt attracted to him in return. I could have dealt with Officer Sanders being a stalker, in fact it might have made for an interesting story line, but the fact that she felt attraction to him in return was what really turned me off to this novel.
Rating this novel was difficult for me, because of how well written it was I wanted to give it a higher rating but at the same time I felt so uncomfortable by Officer Sanders (especially after the ending) that I felt obligated to knock it down a little bit. Stimac truly is a talented writer and I can understand how someone would really enjoy this novel; however it just wasn’t for me.
Trusted is a very difficult novel to review; on one hand it was very well written and entertaining in its own right. However, on the other hand there were just some parts of this story that made me uncomfortable and others that made me unable to take any of this story seriously.
The strongest part of this novel was how well written it was. There were a few awkward sentences here and there but overall the story was very readable and flowed really well. It was never a challenge for me to understand what the author was saying and I could tell that Stimac put a lot of effort into writing this novel and she really did do a fantastic job with the writing itself. Even though I didn’t sense much of a plot the characters were very well developed and Stimac threw in enough events to keep the novel interesting. I was never bored by this novel, but there were just some aspects that I was a little uncomfortable with.
Despite how well written the novel was let’s start by addressing the things that I just couldn’t take seriously about this novel. The number one being the age difference between Tegan and Rake. When the story starts Tegan is fifteen, and though she later turns sixteen during the novel, that is still a huge age difference from Rake’s nineteen years. While three (pretty much four) years isn’t much in someone’s twenties or thirties it’s a huge difference when the characters are in their teens. Not only is it a huge age difference but Tegan’s parents aren’t even the least bit concerned that their daughter is dating a much older boy, as soon as she turned the magical sixteen it seemed that her parents didn’t care at all who she went out with. The age difference between Tegan and Rake is the same as that between me and my sister and I know that I wouldn’t be okay with my sister dating a boy my age; maybe it’s just me but even though the romance was cute the age difference was just always in the back of my mind bothering me.
Then we are introduced to officer Damien Sanders. While the relationship between Rake and Tegan kind of bothered me because of the age difference I admit that it was cute and in the end I really did like Rake’s personality. Officer Sanders is where this novel really started to make me really uncomfortable. A full on stalker complete with the creepy personality and obsession with Tegan he was the number one reason I gave this novel the rating I did. The worst part was that not only was Officer Sanders a creepy stalker who was “in love” with Tegan but she felt attracted to him in return. I could have dealt with Officer Sanders being a stalker, in fact it might have made for an interesting story line, but the fact that she felt attraction to him in return was what really turned me off to this novel.
Rating this novel was difficult for me, because of how well written it was I wanted to give it a higher rating but at the same time I felt so uncomfortable by Officer Sanders (especially after the ending) that I felt obligated to knock it down a little bit. Stimac truly is a talented writer and I can understand how someone would really enjoy this novel; however it just wasn’t for me.
April 2, 2014
**I received a free copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.**
“Trusted" (Book 1 in the Trusted Series) by Taylor Stimac is a fast read with a young romance storyline and hints of the paranormal. Told from the first person point of view of teenager Tegan Summers, the book takes place during the summer vacation, during which Tegan turns 16. She’s not dated before now, but when she meets local radio personality Rake Johnson, she falls head-over-heels, like most 16-year olds do. Her point of view is quirky at times, being a teenager, and does a good job of relaying the story to the reader. There are hints of paranormal mixed into the story, but it mostly revolves around the love story between Tegan and Rake.
There were a couple things that stopped me from completely loving this book. Throughout the story, it is made clear that Tegan and her parents are Christians. Her parents are described as overprotective, as not liking secular music, and they even give her a purity ring. When she starts dating Rake, though, their primary concern is she will become too serious too fast. For whatever reason, there is very little mention of the fact that Rake is 19 and Tegan is only 15 when they meet (her 16th birthday is on the same day he meets her parents). Plus this is her first boyfriend…which leads me to believe that the parents should have been very concerned about his age, especially given their views on purity and secular music. It seemed a bit of a contradiction. As a parent myself, I found it disconcerting and a bit tough to swallow.
Thrown into that mix is Officer Damien Sanders. I’m not sure how old he is (old enough to be a cop) yet he stalks Tegan to “warn” her away from Rake. He sends her text messages, practically kidnaps her during her driving test, shows up on her front lawn, and calls her “baby.” Though I understood he was trying to warn her away from Rake, I had some serious concerns about his creepy Charlie child molester behavior. I also did not understand why Tegan never bothered to report this behavior, or why she was not more frightened by it. By all outward appearances, this is an officer of the law abusing his power to stalk a minor. She should have been a little more scared of that.
Normally with concerns like these, I would only rate a book 3-stars, but I really loved the book overall and that makes it a 4-star read. I enjoyed the paranormal elements, but I do wish there were more scenes of that (and I have a feeling that there will be in the next book). The ones that were there were well-written and handled very nicely. Tegan’s quirks are just fun enough to make me want to read the next book and get the resolution of the conflict. The book moves at a quick pace, which is a credit to the author for keeping the story moving. Tegan’s best friend, Sara, was also a fun character, and made for some humorous scenes with Tegan. Overall, this book is worth checking out and gives lots of reason to continue reading the series!
“Trusted" (Book 1 in the Trusted Series) by Taylor Stimac is a fast read with a young romance storyline and hints of the paranormal. Told from the first person point of view of teenager Tegan Summers, the book takes place during the summer vacation, during which Tegan turns 16. She’s not dated before now, but when she meets local radio personality Rake Johnson, she falls head-over-heels, like most 16-year olds do. Her point of view is quirky at times, being a teenager, and does a good job of relaying the story to the reader. There are hints of paranormal mixed into the story, but it mostly revolves around the love story between Tegan and Rake.
There were a couple things that stopped me from completely loving this book. Throughout the story, it is made clear that Tegan and her parents are Christians. Her parents are described as overprotective, as not liking secular music, and they even give her a purity ring. When she starts dating Rake, though, their primary concern is she will become too serious too fast. For whatever reason, there is very little mention of the fact that Rake is 19 and Tegan is only 15 when they meet (her 16th birthday is on the same day he meets her parents). Plus this is her first boyfriend…which leads me to believe that the parents should have been very concerned about his age, especially given their views on purity and secular music. It seemed a bit of a contradiction. As a parent myself, I found it disconcerting and a bit tough to swallow.
Thrown into that mix is Officer Damien Sanders. I’m not sure how old he is (old enough to be a cop) yet he stalks Tegan to “warn” her away from Rake. He sends her text messages, practically kidnaps her during her driving test, shows up on her front lawn, and calls her “baby.” Though I understood he was trying to warn her away from Rake, I had some serious concerns about his creepy Charlie child molester behavior. I also did not understand why Tegan never bothered to report this behavior, or why she was not more frightened by it. By all outward appearances, this is an officer of the law abusing his power to stalk a minor. She should have been a little more scared of that.
Normally with concerns like these, I would only rate a book 3-stars, but I really loved the book overall and that makes it a 4-star read. I enjoyed the paranormal elements, but I do wish there were more scenes of that (and I have a feeling that there will be in the next book). The ones that were there were well-written and handled very nicely. Tegan’s quirks are just fun enough to make me want to read the next book and get the resolution of the conflict. The book moves at a quick pace, which is a credit to the author for keeping the story moving. Tegan’s best friend, Sara, was also a fun character, and made for some humorous scenes with Tegan. Overall, this book is worth checking out and gives lots of reason to continue reading the series!
January 28, 2014
**I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Again, I can't reiterate how much I wish we got half stars when rating :( I give this book a solid 4.5 stars!
For the most part this story is a sweet, coming of age, coming into romance story; with a dash of paranormal thrown in. Tegan (and I love the name) has lived a very sheltered life. I guess you could describe her family as lower middle class, but it doesn't seem like she goes without many of the necessities of a teenage girl.
We start off with Tegan being 15. Her parents won't allow her to date until she's 16; but seemingly this isn't a problem since she doesn't seem to have any real "dating" prospects anyway. Until she meets Rake. He's a DJ for a local radio station and seems to be instantly smitten with her; but upon explanation agrees to wait until she is 16 to ask her out.
I kind of like Tegan and Rake as a couple. She's the girl who's never been kissed, never been on a date, never really had a boy talk to her and now suddenly one of the hottest guys in town wants to be with her. She's very naïve and Rake is older than her (he's 19) and seemingly more experienced in the dating world. Some of her reactions to situations can be chalked up to the way she was raised (hence her freakout over meeting one of Rake's ex girlfriends) and some are just because it seems that she has lived in this bubble created by her parents (her inability to understand her best friend Sara sometimes). I do hope that we see some very character development and maybe some maturing when it comes to her character. I like Rake. He's attentive, smart, funny, and hot. What's not to like?
Then there is Damien Sanders. Hot cop. We "meet" Damien in the prologue to the book so that gives us some idea that his character is going to play a part in the paranormal aspect of the storyline. I would have liked to have seen more Damien. Maybe understand him a little better. There is a dream sequence about halfway through the book that, I think, was supposed to show us part of the relationship between Tegan and Damien... it confused me a little because it doesn't match up with what we learned in the prologue...so it could be a future we are seeing instead of his past? His character really confuses me and I hope that in the second book we get to see more Damien and maybe understand what his role is in all this.
For the most part the storyline was well thought out and the characters were well developed. I would have liked to have gotten to know Sara a little more...but then again, maybe her story isn't really important to Tegan's story. It's just that there were a lot of questions left unanswered about her.
The book does end with a cliffhanger, so be prepared to pick up Destined if you want to find out what happens next.
Again, I can't reiterate how much I wish we got half stars when rating :( I give this book a solid 4.5 stars!
For the most part this story is a sweet, coming of age, coming into romance story; with a dash of paranormal thrown in. Tegan (and I love the name) has lived a very sheltered life. I guess you could describe her family as lower middle class, but it doesn't seem like she goes without many of the necessities of a teenage girl.
We start off with Tegan being 15. Her parents won't allow her to date until she's 16; but seemingly this isn't a problem since she doesn't seem to have any real "dating" prospects anyway. Until she meets Rake. He's a DJ for a local radio station and seems to be instantly smitten with her; but upon explanation agrees to wait until she is 16 to ask her out.
I kind of like Tegan and Rake as a couple. She's the girl who's never been kissed, never been on a date, never really had a boy talk to her and now suddenly one of the hottest guys in town wants to be with her. She's very naïve and Rake is older than her (he's 19) and seemingly more experienced in the dating world. Some of her reactions to situations can be chalked up to the way she was raised (hence her freakout over meeting one of Rake's ex girlfriends) and some are just because it seems that she has lived in this bubble created by her parents (her inability to understand her best friend Sara sometimes). I do hope that we see some very character development and maybe some maturing when it comes to her character. I like Rake. He's attentive, smart, funny, and hot. What's not to like?
Then there is Damien Sanders. Hot cop. We "meet" Damien in the prologue to the book so that gives us some idea that his character is going to play a part in the paranormal aspect of the storyline. I would have liked to have seen more Damien. Maybe understand him a little better. There is a dream sequence about halfway through the book that, I think, was supposed to show us part of the relationship between Tegan and Damien... it confused me a little because it doesn't match up with what we learned in the prologue...so it could be a future we are seeing instead of his past? His character really confuses me and I hope that in the second book we get to see more Damien and maybe understand what his role is in all this.
For the most part the storyline was well thought out and the characters were well developed. I would have liked to have gotten to know Sara a little more...but then again, maybe her story isn't really important to Tegan's story. It's just that there were a lot of questions left unanswered about her.
The book does end with a cliffhanger, so be prepared to pick up Destined if you want to find out what happens next.
July 24, 2013
“Stay away”
Those words stick with you through this incredible, moving story.
Be aware from page one you will be stuck in this book until you finish it, you will not be able to put it down! Trusted has become one of my favorite reads this summer and everyone needs to read it as well.
Before being sixteen Tegan, doesn’t get much freedom from her parents. She has her best friend, Sara, and things are pretty boring for her, boys don’t talk to her, she isn’t part of the popular crowd, and she’s just Tegan, a down to earth, good girl, Christian. . . .
Then there is Rake, radio-talk, deejay, college boy. The first guy who Tegan wants and Rake has the same feelings in return.
Rake ends up giving Tegan the best sweet sixteen birthday and first date all rolled into one. . .
“ Make a wish,” he said.
“What if they’ve all come true already?” I asked.
He smiled and I blew out the candles, holding eye contact with him all the while.
But all this time she is having warnings, or as Tegan sees it, a ghost of some sort warning her, to “stay away.”
From having a great new boyfriend, then to finding out her ghost is someone real, who just happens to be Officer Damien Sanders. Trying to warn her, make her trust him. The chemistry is familiar and strong, but confusing.
Things go back to Rake, everything is going amazing and then there is the first fight and overcoming it and then there is more confusion and hurt and also panic. Remembering the passion from the kiss from the officer and then how amazing the kisses are from her boyfriend, but why is she suppose to stay away from him? Why? Officer Damien just wants her to trust him, “trust me,” he says.
Does Tegan get her answers and figures out what is going on? This is why you have to read this book. Tegan’s story is heart filled, confusing and passionate. A girl just trying to enjoy life and at the same time trying to get answers to these unknown remarks, take a journey with Tagen in the beginning of her sixteenth birthday and summer.
Taylor Stimac will leave you wanting nothing but more.
Those words stick with you through this incredible, moving story.
Be aware from page one you will be stuck in this book until you finish it, you will not be able to put it down! Trusted has become one of my favorite reads this summer and everyone needs to read it as well.
Before being sixteen Tegan, doesn’t get much freedom from her parents. She has her best friend, Sara, and things are pretty boring for her, boys don’t talk to her, she isn’t part of the popular crowd, and she’s just Tegan, a down to earth, good girl, Christian. . . .
Then there is Rake, radio-talk, deejay, college boy. The first guy who Tegan wants and Rake has the same feelings in return.
Rake ends up giving Tegan the best sweet sixteen birthday and first date all rolled into one. . .
“ Make a wish,” he said.
“What if they’ve all come true already?” I asked.
He smiled and I blew out the candles, holding eye contact with him all the while.
But all this time she is having warnings, or as Tegan sees it, a ghost of some sort warning her, to “stay away.”
From having a great new boyfriend, then to finding out her ghost is someone real, who just happens to be Officer Damien Sanders. Trying to warn her, make her trust him. The chemistry is familiar and strong, but confusing.
Things go back to Rake, everything is going amazing and then there is the first fight and overcoming it and then there is more confusion and hurt and also panic. Remembering the passion from the kiss from the officer and then how amazing the kisses are from her boyfriend, but why is she suppose to stay away from him? Why? Officer Damien just wants her to trust him, “trust me,” he says.
Does Tegan get her answers and figures out what is going on? This is why you have to read this book. Tegan’s story is heart filled, confusing and passionate. A girl just trying to enjoy life and at the same time trying to get answers to these unknown remarks, take a journey with Tagen in the beginning of her sixteenth birthday and summer.
Taylor Stimac will leave you wanting nothing but more.
August 23, 2013
*I was given this book for free, in exchange for an honest review.
Schools out for the summer and what’s a girl to do? Yeah, get a job!! Tegan needs to find a summer job to help pay for new plush ride. But before that can happen, there is a radio contest that her bestie and her dad are determined to win! It’s a town wide scavenger hunt sponsored by the local Radio Station. Teg comes from a very religious and moral family, no dating until she is 16 and a purity ring to boot! Well she meets up with Rake Johnson from the local radio station, and on her 16th birthday he shows up for a date. Things between them are typical teenage things. Making out, sneaking out, and lying to her parents, the usual stuff. However, there is a voice, is it her subconscious tell her to stay on the straight and narrow and to let Rake go or is it something else?
Officer Sanders has tried to warn Tegan, but she just isn’t listening, what’s an officer have to do? He warned her on her driving test. He warned her in her dreams, but to no avail.
The beginning of this book was a little slow for me. But once the story got going, I was hooked. I did expect a little more paranormal stuff to happen. The first chapter hit me like a ton of bricks and then there was hardly anything. I really didn’t trust Rake, he is a typical 19 year old, over sexed teenage boy. But why would someone like him want someone like Tegan? What draws him to her? He says she is beautiful, but I don’t buy that as the reason he likes her. Tegan annoyed me a little bit with her judgmental ways. Sara and Ian, I probably could have done without them and the story would have been fine.
Officer Sanders, was a mystery to me. I couldn’t figure him out. Is he an Angel or Demon? Why is he interested in Tegan? There was no real clue as to the connection, that’s probably in book 2! I wanted more from Officer Sander’s POV. He was the most interesting character in the book.
I was waiting and waiting for the confrontation/climax for the book, I think that will come hopefully in book 2, which I will be reading. I need to know what’s going to happen with Officer Sanders.
Schools out for the summer and what’s a girl to do? Yeah, get a job!! Tegan needs to find a summer job to help pay for new plush ride. But before that can happen, there is a radio contest that her bestie and her dad are determined to win! It’s a town wide scavenger hunt sponsored by the local Radio Station. Teg comes from a very religious and moral family, no dating until she is 16 and a purity ring to boot! Well she meets up with Rake Johnson from the local radio station, and on her 16th birthday he shows up for a date. Things between them are typical teenage things. Making out, sneaking out, and lying to her parents, the usual stuff. However, there is a voice, is it her subconscious tell her to stay on the straight and narrow and to let Rake go or is it something else?
Officer Sanders has tried to warn Tegan, but she just isn’t listening, what’s an officer have to do? He warned her on her driving test. He warned her in her dreams, but to no avail.
The beginning of this book was a little slow for me. But once the story got going, I was hooked. I did expect a little more paranormal stuff to happen. The first chapter hit me like a ton of bricks and then there was hardly anything. I really didn’t trust Rake, he is a typical 19 year old, over sexed teenage boy. But why would someone like him want someone like Tegan? What draws him to her? He says she is beautiful, but I don’t buy that as the reason he likes her. Tegan annoyed me a little bit with her judgmental ways. Sara and Ian, I probably could have done without them and the story would have been fine.
Officer Sanders, was a mystery to me. I couldn’t figure him out. Is he an Angel or Demon? Why is he interested in Tegan? There was no real clue as to the connection, that’s probably in book 2! I wanted more from Officer Sander’s POV. He was the most interesting character in the book.
I was waiting and waiting for the confrontation/climax for the book, I think that will come hopefully in book 2, which I will be reading. I need to know what’s going to happen with Officer Sanders.
October 24, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
From the moment I read the synopsis I wanted to read the book. Teen romance with paranormal elements. Sign me up. There was much that I liked about the book. And there were some things that I didn't. One aspect that puzzled me was the character Damien. The entire time he is warning Tegan not to get involved with Rake, but I wasn't entirely clear as to why. I know his character was supposed to be mysterious, but he was a little too mysterious for me. I needed more explanation so I wouldn't think he was just some creep. I’m not saying the author needs to spell everything out for me, but some hints would be helpful. Also, I was a little disappointed that the paranormal elements were so spread out. At times I forgot that I was reading a paranormal book.
Whew, got the bad stuff out of the way. Now, I must say that I really like Tegan. She’s the type of main character that draws readers in. Awkward, but funny. Tegan is an innocent teen, who doesn't drink, swear, or sleep around. And yet, she doesn't come across as some prude that I would hate. She’s just herself and that makes her a wonderful character.
I had a hard time with Rake. On the surface he seems nice, but with the warnings from Damien that Tegan should stay away, I was wondering if he wasn't what he seemed. I’m still not sure and I’m really curious to read the next book to find out more. However, I think this is a good aspect of the novel. I like the unsure feelings I had about him. It added to the whole suspense.
Then ending is pretty intense and left me wanting more. This is a good start to the series and I’m hoping the next book will round out Damien’s character more and I’m anxious to find out more about Rake. Is he really the perfect guy?
From the moment I read the synopsis I wanted to read the book. Teen romance with paranormal elements. Sign me up. There was much that I liked about the book. And there were some things that I didn't. One aspect that puzzled me was the character Damien. The entire time he is warning Tegan not to get involved with Rake, but I wasn't entirely clear as to why. I know his character was supposed to be mysterious, but he was a little too mysterious for me. I needed more explanation so I wouldn't think he was just some creep. I’m not saying the author needs to spell everything out for me, but some hints would be helpful. Also, I was a little disappointed that the paranormal elements were so spread out. At times I forgot that I was reading a paranormal book.
Whew, got the bad stuff out of the way. Now, I must say that I really like Tegan. She’s the type of main character that draws readers in. Awkward, but funny. Tegan is an innocent teen, who doesn't drink, swear, or sleep around. And yet, she doesn't come across as some prude that I would hate. She’s just herself and that makes her a wonderful character.
I had a hard time with Rake. On the surface he seems nice, but with the warnings from Damien that Tegan should stay away, I was wondering if he wasn't what he seemed. I’m still not sure and I’m really curious to read the next book to find out more. However, I think this is a good aspect of the novel. I like the unsure feelings I had about him. It added to the whole suspense.
Then ending is pretty intense and left me wanting more. This is a good start to the series and I’m hoping the next book will round out Damien’s character more and I’m anxious to find out more about Rake. Is he really the perfect guy?
March 16, 2014
Trusted
Can I just say wow? Like W.O.W. it's take me about3 days to write this review and I STILL don't know what to write. This story was not what I was expecting, yet still pleasantly surprising. It wasn't as supernatural as I was expecting, but it was still good!
This book had some grammatical errors, but they were quite easy to overlook. The occasional changing of tense, the misuse of commas and the 'could of' which is the bane of my existence, but all together it was a very good read!
It was a page-turner that kept me reading late into the night, and had my parents yelling at me multiple times to come out of my room, which I refused to do!
I really loved the story, but thought it could use some development. It feels like the plot is climbing but it never reaches the climax, which leaved me feeling unfulfilled as well as curious about what happened next.
The thing that I really, really, really, RELLY loved was the fact that I didn't know who was wrong and who was right. Normally, I have quite a straight-forward view as to who I like and who I don't, and that changes but at any given point in time I can tell you at least one good person and one bad. This book? Nada. I couldn't have told you, and I still can't, which is VERY effective.
There was a whole lot of effective suspense and mystery and I definitely recommend you read this book, and then message me about it! If you're looking for a plot, look up or type it into your google search bar. The author has posted a REALLY cute daughter saying a summary of this book, and although it's not totally accurate, it's super adorable!
I'm looking forward to book 2 and to all you bookish people messaging me about this book!
Ta-ta now!
Can I just say wow? Like W.O.W. it's take me about3 days to write this review and I STILL don't know what to write. This story was not what I was expecting, yet still pleasantly surprising. It wasn't as supernatural as I was expecting, but it was still good!
This book had some grammatical errors, but they were quite easy to overlook. The occasional changing of tense, the misuse of commas and the 'could of' which is the bane of my existence, but all together it was a very good read!
It was a page-turner that kept me reading late into the night, and had my parents yelling at me multiple times to come out of my room, which I refused to do!
I really loved the story, but thought it could use some development. It feels like the plot is climbing but it never reaches the climax, which leaved me feeling unfulfilled as well as curious about what happened next.
The thing that I really, really, really, RELLY loved was the fact that I didn't know who was wrong and who was right. Normally, I have quite a straight-forward view as to who I like and who I don't, and that changes but at any given point in time I can tell you at least one good person and one bad. This book? Nada. I couldn't have told you, and I still can't, which is VERY effective.
There was a whole lot of effective suspense and mystery and I definitely recommend you read this book, and then message me about it! If you're looking for a plot, look up or type it into your google search bar. The author has posted a REALLY cute daughter saying a summary of this book, and although it's not totally accurate, it's super adorable!
I'm looking forward to book 2 and to all you bookish people messaging me about this book!
Ta-ta now!
August 27, 2013
TRUSTED: The first book in the Trusted Series
An Appealing YA Romance
Tegan, a fifteen-year old, has never dated, having been told by her parents that she could not date until she is sixteen. She has a special girlfriend Sara, her “bestie” whose mother works two shifts. This allows Sara more freedom and she is quite sophisticated, although she doesn’t advocate Tegan being anything other than what her parents want her to be…a good girl. Early in the story is interjected in a paranormal manner a dark character, who startles Tegan but she just goes on her way. Just before she is sixteen, she meets a college boy, Rake, who is attractive, sophisticated, fun, who calls her beautiful and admits being attracted to her. So much so that anything she tells him how her boyfriend must act, so he does. He shows up on her sixteenth birthday with roses, impresses her mother and becomes her boyfriend. She is thrilled, but reminds herself that she has never dated, never been asked, and are his intentions noble?
The story line follows what usually occurs between two teenagers, although Tegan never goes beyond heavy necking. Then a police officer Damien Sanders shows up and keeps warning Tegan verbally and with notes that Rake isn’t good for her. Throughout the rest of the story Damien is in and out and the author keeps him mysterious, although not so much so that the reader can’t guess what his role must be. Throughout the story, the writing has been skillful and good character building, but because Damien is to remain mysterious, and especially at the end of the novel, the author rather fails in this skill, it being obvious this is a cliffhanger for another in this series. I feel this is a healthy, romance for teenagers and recommend it.
An Appealing YA Romance
Tegan, a fifteen-year old, has never dated, having been told by her parents that she could not date until she is sixteen. She has a special girlfriend Sara, her “bestie” whose mother works two shifts. This allows Sara more freedom and she is quite sophisticated, although she doesn’t advocate Tegan being anything other than what her parents want her to be…a good girl. Early in the story is interjected in a paranormal manner a dark character, who startles Tegan but she just goes on her way. Just before she is sixteen, she meets a college boy, Rake, who is attractive, sophisticated, fun, who calls her beautiful and admits being attracted to her. So much so that anything she tells him how her boyfriend must act, so he does. He shows up on her sixteenth birthday with roses, impresses her mother and becomes her boyfriend. She is thrilled, but reminds herself that she has never dated, never been asked, and are his intentions noble?
The story line follows what usually occurs between two teenagers, although Tegan never goes beyond heavy necking. Then a police officer Damien Sanders shows up and keeps warning Tegan verbally and with notes that Rake isn’t good for her. Throughout the rest of the story Damien is in and out and the author keeps him mysterious, although not so much so that the reader can’t guess what his role must be. Throughout the story, the writing has been skillful and good character building, but because Damien is to remain mysterious, and especially at the end of the novel, the author rather fails in this skill, it being obvious this is a cliffhanger for another in this series. I feel this is a healthy, romance for teenagers and recommend it.
January 29, 2014
The premise of the novel was intriguing, and the prologue promised an interesting read. I enjoyed the story, but wanted more paranormal and fewer Tegan-angsty moments. And yet Tegan was true; I believed her as a character, and felt a good degree of empathy for her. The Christian spin caught me off-guard, but I didn't have any inherent objection to it - though I found Tegan's parents to be slightly two-dimensional in their faith. If the series is, at baseline, a Christian work, it would benefit from an exploration and apologia of its orthodoxy rather than recitation and reality of orthopraxy.
While I believe that Damien will prove, in the long haul, to be the most interesting character [I'd like to have seen much more of him!], Rake puzzled me enough to firmly hold my attention. Why was a 19-year-old young man, so far along in his career so young, pursuing a 16-year-old girl with deeply rooted self-esteem issues? Is he just a nice guy? Is he a creep? Evil? [The hellhole death dream scene was excellent! Presupposing (no spoiler here!) Tegan is the girl Damien is sent back to save in the Prologue, the potential evil character of Rake is probable.]
The story was good. But tighter editing would have made it very good; great, even. The story pace slowed with repetitive information and the use of passive voice. There were also some curious word choices which, admittedly, perhaps I misconstrued as incorrect: "alluded" rather than "eluded"; "consecutively" rather than "concurrently", for example.
However, there were some nice gems: "endorphin-laced sleep" was a favourite! I look forward to reading the next book and, indeed, much more from Ms. Stimac.
While I believe that Damien will prove, in the long haul, to be the most interesting character [I'd like to have seen much more of him!], Rake puzzled me enough to firmly hold my attention. Why was a 19-year-old young man, so far along in his career so young, pursuing a 16-year-old girl with deeply rooted self-esteem issues? Is he just a nice guy? Is he a creep? Evil? [The hellhole death dream scene was excellent! Presupposing (no spoiler here!) Tegan is the girl Damien is sent back to save in the Prologue, the potential evil character of Rake is probable.]
The story was good. But tighter editing would have made it very good; great, even. The story pace slowed with repetitive information and the use of passive voice. There were also some curious word choices which, admittedly, perhaps I misconstrued as incorrect: "alluded" rather than "eluded"; "consecutively" rather than "concurrently", for example.
However, there were some nice gems: "endorphin-laced sleep" was a favourite! I look forward to reading the next book and, indeed, much more from Ms. Stimac.
July 30, 2013
*Disclaimer: I did receive a free eBook copy of this novel from the author in return of a review.*
Reading the prologue just kicked it off for me. At the beginning the story, after the prologue, I was kind of skeptical. I didn't know where exactly is was going and if I'd fully get into it. But before I could even realize it, I was hooked. And before I knew it, I was at the last chapter and it was only the second day of reading. The novel is fast paced and had me laughing along with characters as well as having butterflies all the way to the last page. When I saw that I was at the last chapter, I didn't even want to read it because it meant the end.
The story also has it's realistic points. From changing into pjs as soon as you get home from school (who doesn't love doing that?) and having that one friend (atleast) that seems to get any and every guy, all the way to seeing that boy with the smile that makes you giggle without even realizing it (come on, we've all had that school crush that you gives you butterflies like no other)but that you think will never like you. But the story also has it's twists and turns that keep you wondering what will happen next.
Bottom line: This book had be on the edge of my seat as well as having the giggles at times with a hard case of the butterflies.
I definitely cannot wait to get my hands on the sequel!
Oh and can I just say Damien?! Oh my gosh, DAMIEN! :)
Reading the prologue just kicked it off for me. At the beginning the story, after the prologue, I was kind of skeptical. I didn't know where exactly is was going and if I'd fully get into it. But before I could even realize it, I was hooked. And before I knew it, I was at the last chapter and it was only the second day of reading. The novel is fast paced and had me laughing along with characters as well as having butterflies all the way to the last page. When I saw that I was at the last chapter, I didn't even want to read it because it meant the end.
The story also has it's realistic points. From changing into pjs as soon as you get home from school (who doesn't love doing that?) and having that one friend (atleast) that seems to get any and every guy, all the way to seeing that boy with the smile that makes you giggle without even realizing it (come on, we've all had that school crush that you gives you butterflies like no other)but that you think will never like you. But the story also has it's twists and turns that keep you wondering what will happen next.
Bottom line: This book had be on the edge of my seat as well as having the giggles at times with a hard case of the butterflies.
I definitely cannot wait to get my hands on the sequel!
Oh and can I just say Damien?! Oh my gosh, DAMIEN! :)
July 27, 2013
Trusted By: Taylor L. Stimic
If you are looking for suspense Taylor L. Stimic has it . Trusted is one of the best Young Adult novels I have read in awhile. Taylor writes more realistically when it comes to both teenage and adults emotions and reactions to their situations. Reading about Tegan Summer's and Rake Johnson made me feel like I was reliving my first crush all over again. Well minus having an Officer, Damien Sanders seemingly stalk her, and not just when she was awake. How did he always know where she was and what she was doing? Why wouldn't he just leave her and Rake alone? Damien will only tell her to stay away from Rake. What could possibly be wrong with a guy who lavishes you with gifts and compliments, and always wants you by his side? Tegan doesn't even know Damien, or does she? He causes a lot of Deja Vu moments, why?
Trusted was a very hard book to put down. Although there were a couple of grammatical error, they are easily over looked by the flow of the story. Each chapter leaves you wanting more. So much more that it leaves you with more questions than answers, but trust me you won't stop reading until you find them. I can't wait to read Taylor's Second book in the Trusted series Destined. I can already see that Trusted is Destined to be an amazing series.
Reviewed as part of the goodreads giveaway.
If you are looking for suspense Taylor L. Stimic has it . Trusted is one of the best Young Adult novels I have read in awhile. Taylor writes more realistically when it comes to both teenage and adults emotions and reactions to their situations. Reading about Tegan Summer's and Rake Johnson made me feel like I was reliving my first crush all over again. Well minus having an Officer, Damien Sanders seemingly stalk her, and not just when she was awake. How did he always know where she was and what she was doing? Why wouldn't he just leave her and Rake alone? Damien will only tell her to stay away from Rake. What could possibly be wrong with a guy who lavishes you with gifts and compliments, and always wants you by his side? Tegan doesn't even know Damien, or does she? He causes a lot of Deja Vu moments, why?
Trusted was a very hard book to put down. Although there were a couple of grammatical error, they are easily over looked by the flow of the story. Each chapter leaves you wanting more. So much more that it leaves you with more questions than answers, but trust me you won't stop reading until you find them. I can't wait to read Taylor's Second book in the Trusted series Destined. I can already see that Trusted is Destined to be an amazing series.
Reviewed as part of the goodreads giveaway.
February 4, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review and I am very happy that I also received a copy of the next book in this series.
One of my favorite things about this book is that it reads as if the author has spent a lot of time carefully planning her plot and getting to know her characters. I like Teagan and I like her parents. I love the little details in this book like Teagan’s fear of opening the biscuit can (I’m secretly afraid of this too!). I think that Teagan’s character is realistic and has some great qualities I don’t see in a lot of modern teenage characters.
I’ve read some other reviews saying that they didn’t get enough paranormal elements in this book. I thought the paranormal elements were just fine, but I didn’t go into this book thinking there would be a lot of paranormal elements, so maybe this helped.
There were a few religious elements I wasn’t expecting. I think that Stimac does a very good job of presenting these elements without being too preachy.
I agree with some of the other reviews that there were some minor errors in this book. I was able to get past this. For the most part, it is well written, it just could have used one last set of eyes before being published.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. I look forward to reading the next book and other books Stimac writes.
One of my favorite things about this book is that it reads as if the author has spent a lot of time carefully planning her plot and getting to know her characters. I like Teagan and I like her parents. I love the little details in this book like Teagan’s fear of opening the biscuit can (I’m secretly afraid of this too!). I think that Teagan’s character is realistic and has some great qualities I don’t see in a lot of modern teenage characters.
I’ve read some other reviews saying that they didn’t get enough paranormal elements in this book. I thought the paranormal elements were just fine, but I didn’t go into this book thinking there would be a lot of paranormal elements, so maybe this helped.
There were a few religious elements I wasn’t expecting. I think that Stimac does a very good job of presenting these elements without being too preachy.
I agree with some of the other reviews that there were some minor errors in this book. I was able to get past this. For the most part, it is well written, it just could have used one last set of eyes before being published.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. I look forward to reading the next book and other books Stimac writes.
August 2, 2013
Wow. From the first page of the prologue to the sneak peek at book two I did not put this book down. The story starts with Tegan, a 15 year old girl who meets a radio DJ name Rake Johnson. Rake seems like the perfect boy for Tegan, especially with her upcoming 16th birthday meaning she can date. At around the same time another man, Officer Damien, walks into her life warning her to stay away from Rake.
I found Tegan an easy character to relate to as I am coming up on the age 16, also meaning I can date, being raised in a Christian home, as well as having a purity ring. Tegan faces struggles in the dating world that many Christian girls will face. She is nervous and quiet yet can be quirky and outgoing. Tegan was a wonderful character and personality for this role in the story.
The plot to this book was unexpected with many twist keeping me hooked. Officer Damien adds mystery to the story as Tegan is getting warnings from him to stay away from Rake. Rake represents the ideal boyfriend in many ways seeming to be almost a perfect match for Tegan minus the few arguments and disagreements. Overall I loved the book, especially the Christian aspect and values that were written in and I can not wat for the sequel to come out!
I found Tegan an easy character to relate to as I am coming up on the age 16, also meaning I can date, being raised in a Christian home, as well as having a purity ring. Tegan faces struggles in the dating world that many Christian girls will face. She is nervous and quiet yet can be quirky and outgoing. Tegan was a wonderful character and personality for this role in the story.
The plot to this book was unexpected with many twist keeping me hooked. Officer Damien adds mystery to the story as Tegan is getting warnings from him to stay away from Rake. Rake represents the ideal boyfriend in many ways seeming to be almost a perfect match for Tegan minus the few arguments and disagreements. Overall I loved the book, especially the Christian aspect and values that were written in and I can not wat for the sequel to come out!
July 26, 2013
First, the good points. If you enjoy a sweet teen romance, read this book. The relationship between Tegan and Rake is one most teenage girls will drool over. I certainly enjoyed reading it. Both characters are well fleshed out. Girls will get Tegan’s insecurities and fears, and will find Rake’s charm appealing.
Where the book lacks is in the character of Damien. I’m not sure why he’s there. I realize there is more than one part to this series, but Damien’s character is just not fleshed out enough for me and I’m confused with his purpose. I know there is one, and maybe it won’t be revealed until later, but some stronger hints in this first book would be good. Instead of leaving me dying to read more, it just made me think: “What was the point of that character to begin with?”
The book could also use some better editing. While this didn’t pull down the readability of the book too much, it did make some parts sound unpolished and awkward. With a little more editing and fleshing out of Damien’s character, this could be a very good book, as the main characters are engaging and the romance was so appealing.
Nik’s Picks Book Reviews
www.nikki-bennett.com
(The author provided me a free copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.)
Where the book lacks is in the character of Damien. I’m not sure why he’s there. I realize there is more than one part to this series, but Damien’s character is just not fleshed out enough for me and I’m confused with his purpose. I know there is one, and maybe it won’t be revealed until later, but some stronger hints in this first book would be good. Instead of leaving me dying to read more, it just made me think: “What was the point of that character to begin with?”
The book could also use some better editing. While this didn’t pull down the readability of the book too much, it did make some parts sound unpolished and awkward. With a little more editing and fleshing out of Damien’s character, this could be a very good book, as the main characters are engaging and the romance was so appealing.
Nik’s Picks Book Reviews
www.nikki-bennett.com
(The author provided me a free copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.)
July 30, 2013
Wow :o I'm speechless. This is a very well written book and had me hooked from the very beginning! So in order to get a second chance he must have Tegan fall in love with her which he ruins by stalking her and pushing her away with the things he does. I feel sorry for him and hope to read the second book soon to see how this will all play out. Though how is Rake bad for her? When he called her baby I was thinking about Damien and that he was in his body lol But I feel that something bad will happen soon in the rest of the series where she will soon realize what Damien was talking about trusting him and how wrong Rake is. But then again he could had said that just so she can be with him and he can have his second chance. Though I wonder what her destiny is since Michael gave him the picture of Tegan I guess? Why is she important to them and Damien. All in all this is a really good book and I had fun reading it and would recommend everyone to read this :)
August 18, 2013
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I have to say I'm a 'character reader', i.e. I find characterisation as or more important than the plot - and I have to say the characterisation was well done in this book it was almost fairy tale-esque. I adored Rafe - can anyone say dreamy - and his lovely heroine was easy to identify with. Oh and don't get me started on Officer D - scary and attractive (yum?). That being said (if queried) I have to admit I found the para/creepy side of the story a bit unnecessary. It started with a brilliant plunge into a scene of suicide that had me eagerly flipping the page but after a while it got to the point where I was just sitting there thinking 'Hells bells , I don't want this. Where is Rafe?' . Though it added an interesting and unique dimension to the book it also detracted from the romance - which is tragic in its own way as the relationship between R and T was beautifully crafted.
First of all, I have to say I'm a 'character reader', i.e. I find characterisation as or more important than the plot - and I have to say the characterisation was well done in this book it was almost fairy tale-esque. I adored Rafe - can anyone say dreamy - and his lovely heroine was easy to identify with. Oh and don't get me started on Officer D - scary and attractive (yum?). That being said (if queried) I have to admit I found the para/creepy side of the story a bit unnecessary. It started with a brilliant plunge into a scene of suicide that had me eagerly flipping the page but after a while it got to the point where I was just sitting there thinking 'Hells bells , I don't want this. Where is Rafe?' . Though it added an interesting and unique dimension to the book it also detracted from the romance - which is tragic in its own way as the relationship between R and T was beautifully crafted.
September 17, 2013
This is the author's novel debut and its pretty awesome, in my opinion. I would highly recommend it to anyone. From beginning to end, I was hooked! The characters and the storyline are completely captivating, making it near impossible to put down. This book has everything a reader could ask for......family and relationships mixed with a little bit of suspense and drama.
You can't help but fall in love with the characters. The main character, Tegan, is so real, so easy to relate to. First date, first kiss, first love. Monumental stepping stones, especially to a sixteen year old girl. What could have been the perfect life, gets flipped upside down by a mystery man. You're pulled right along with Tegan, trying to figure out exactly what's going on and trying to make the right decisions along the way. The fact that God is throughout this book makes it that much better. The only drawback is I wanted more. I'm anxious to see what happens next!
You can't help but fall in love with the characters. The main character, Tegan, is so real, so easy to relate to. First date, first kiss, first love. Monumental stepping stones, especially to a sixteen year old girl. What could have been the perfect life, gets flipped upside down by a mystery man. You're pulled right along with Tegan, trying to figure out exactly what's going on and trying to make the right decisions along the way. The fact that God is throughout this book makes it that much better. The only drawback is I wanted more. I'm anxious to see what happens next!
September 25, 2013
This book started off well and actually made me sit back to want to know more. Taylor has a unique style of personalizing her characters so that they are clearly distinct in a unique way. Her twist of words didn’t make it hard for the story to be engaging.
However, I must confess that the plot could have been better structured. A thread was introduced at the beginning with the character, Damien, that I hoped would become clearer as the story went on. Instead, I got frustrated and in the end didn’t know anymore about the role of this character than I did at the beginning. The intended suspence ended up not working out as well as it should have.
Also, though it’s supposed to be Christian fiction, a theme is absent. I’ve pondered on the story, but other than the fact that the main character, Tegan, is a Christian, I can’t say what the message is.
There are no swear words or strong language, but there are some expressions that give an overall sense of impropriety.
However, I must confess that the plot could have been better structured. A thread was introduced at the beginning with the character, Damien, that I hoped would become clearer as the story went on. Instead, I got frustrated and in the end didn’t know anymore about the role of this character than I did at the beginning. The intended suspence ended up not working out as well as it should have.
Also, though it’s supposed to be Christian fiction, a theme is absent. I’ve pondered on the story, but other than the fact that the main character, Tegan, is a Christian, I can’t say what the message is.
There are no swear words or strong language, but there are some expressions that give an overall sense of impropriety.
December 1, 2013
This is a REALLY good book. It was one of the few times, I'm was actually torn between the two main guys that want the girl; I have no idea what kind of paranormal it is yet (angels and demons maybe?); and the ending was fabulous. Really, REALLY, good!
I got it now! (I was having trouble figuring out what to say before) I feel like Damien is the good guy and Rake is the bad- and and I'm 99% sure it is like that unless there's going to be some major plot twist- but they haven't been acting like it. So I want her to be with Damien because he is better (and in my opinion hotter), but he's been a complete creepy jerk. I want her to be with Rake because he is so nice and honest with her, but at the same time, I know he's supposed to be bad. Ugh!!!
I got it now! (I was having trouble figuring out what to say before) I feel like Damien is the good guy and Rake is the bad- and and I'm 99% sure it is like that unless there's going to be some major plot twist- but they haven't been acting like it. So I want her to be with Damien because he is better (and in my opinion hotter), but he's been a complete creepy jerk. I want her to be with Rake because he is so nice and honest with her, but at the same time, I know he's supposed to be bad. Ugh!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2013
Boy oh boy, what a read!
I loved Trusted, from its relatable main character, Teagan to the romance in the story that kept me interested! As said in the synopsis, Teagan is a teen girl who finds herself being romantically pursued by a handsome young man…until someone warns her she must stay away.
This story was very fast paced and easy to read, reminding me of the popular Twilight books. The voice is very much of a teenager and we experience teenager “firsts”: kisses, dates, realization of mutual attraction (aaaahhhhh…young love!). Trusted has lots of action to keep you entertained and by the end I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next!
I highly recommend Trusted and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
I loved Trusted, from its relatable main character, Teagan to the romance in the story that kept me interested! As said in the synopsis, Teagan is a teen girl who finds herself being romantically pursued by a handsome young man…until someone warns her she must stay away.
This story was very fast paced and easy to read, reminding me of the popular Twilight books. The voice is very much of a teenager and we experience teenager “firsts”: kisses, dates, realization of mutual attraction (aaaahhhhh…young love!). Trusted has lots of action to keep you entertained and by the end I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next!
I highly recommend Trusted and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
July 20, 2013
Trusted is the 1st book in what is almost certainly going to be an amazing YA parnormal series!
Tegan is young, sweet and innocent, torn between 2 guys who between them, turn her life upside down in their own individual ways!
Trusted is packed with mystery and suspence, keeping you guessing at every corner!
Who is the good guy? Who should be the one to capture Tegan's heart for good? Will it be Rake or Damien? I cannot wait for book 2!
Tegan is young, sweet and innocent, torn between 2 guys who between them, turn her life upside down in their own individual ways!
Trusted is packed with mystery and suspence, keeping you guessing at every corner!
Who is the good guy? Who should be the one to capture Tegan's heart for good? Will it be Rake or Damien? I cannot wait for book 2!
June 8, 2013
This book had me from the first page and kept me hooked throughout! I absolutely loved this book! This is the first of what will be a great series!
This book kept me guessing and on my toes. It is really well written and flows really well.
You will fall in love with Teagan, Rake and even Damian.
Who should Teagan trust....should it be Rake....or should it be Damian....buy it and find out :)
This book kept me guessing and on my toes. It is really well written and flows really well.
You will fall in love with Teagan, Rake and even Damian.
Who should Teagan trust....should it be Rake....or should it be Damian....buy it and find out :)
June 9, 2013
Great YA novel. Tegan has everything a sixteen year old girl could want, an attentive new boyfriend and her best friend who does all things girlie with her. Why is this mystery man calling to her and why is he trying to upset her new found happiness? Buy the book and find out for yourself!
March 23, 2014
minor typos, proofreading would have helped. kept me intrigued but not sure if I will push on to the second book. the attempt at mystery provided more build up with little to no resolutions that tends to annoy me
January 17, 2014
This is a really good book only took two days to read after about chapter 14 you won't want to put it down if you like suspense and a love story wrapped in one you'll love it
September 1, 2014
I received this book in return for an honest review.
I like the book, and the characters, but I did find myself a little confused. I will be getting book 2 to see how it plays out.
I like the book, and the characters, but I did find myself a little confused. I will be getting book 2 to see how it plays out.
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