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Deep Green
Leah Taylor prefers the quiet adventure and romance of books, but during a cruise with her parents, a terrorist attack leaves her adrift in a lifeboat with strangers. Together they face danger after danger as they fight for survival. Leah also struggles with the growing attention from the men she's stranded with, and her mixed emotions toward them. When dark secrets are exposed, the truth will blow apart any semblance of civility and test Leah's preconceived notions of just how far dedication can go before it crosses over into fanaticism. [Young Adult Contemporary Romance]
- GenresYoung AdultContemporary
150 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 8, 2014
I honestly could not put it down!
Leah is on a cruise with her family when the boat is taken over by terrorists. Leah is rescued by a mysterious boy whom she had an encounter with earlier that day. He tosses her overboard into a life boat, and disengages from the cruise ship. When Leah comes to the next morning, she finds herself adrift with a handful of other passengers. Musir, the boy who saved her and Blue the college student she met minutes before the attack. There is also Kent who is much older and basically useless in survival skills, and an unknown woman who was badly injured trying to escape the ship. Turns out most of Leah's companions have secrets they are trying to hide.
This book touches on so many topics. Not only is it somewhat of a coming of age story (Leah has her 17th birthday while stranded), it is truly a survival story. What is the best decisions to increase likelihood of survival? Can you automatically trust the people who are in this situation with you, or should you still watch your back? How do you handle even the little things you would normally take for granted?
I love reading through the transitions Leah goes through while just trying to survive. I feel like the interactions were very believable. No one really knows how to react at first. No one is particularly skilled in extreme survival situations. They do not know when or if they will be rescued. However one mistake could be the end.
I feel that the author captured the frustration, desperation and even despair that the group goes through very accurately. She captured my attention from the start and held it until the very last word.
Leah is on a cruise with her family when the boat is taken over by terrorists. Leah is rescued by a mysterious boy whom she had an encounter with earlier that day. He tosses her overboard into a life boat, and disengages from the cruise ship. When Leah comes to the next morning, she finds herself adrift with a handful of other passengers. Musir, the boy who saved her and Blue the college student she met minutes before the attack. There is also Kent who is much older and basically useless in survival skills, and an unknown woman who was badly injured trying to escape the ship. Turns out most of Leah's companions have secrets they are trying to hide.
This book touches on so many topics. Not only is it somewhat of a coming of age story (Leah has her 17th birthday while stranded), it is truly a survival story. What is the best decisions to increase likelihood of survival? Can you automatically trust the people who are in this situation with you, or should you still watch your back? How do you handle even the little things you would normally take for granted?
I love reading through the transitions Leah goes through while just trying to survive. I feel like the interactions were very believable. No one really knows how to react at first. No one is particularly skilled in extreme survival situations. They do not know when or if they will be rescued. However one mistake could be the end.
I feel that the author captured the frustration, desperation and even despair that the group goes through very accurately. She captured my attention from the start and held it until the very last word.
February 9, 2014
I loved this book! It is unique among YA books today (I mean for once there is no PNR, no vampires, or werewolves. I loved that!!!)
Deep Green by Trisha Haddad centers around Leah Taylor, who on her Spring Break goes on a cruise with her parents and aunt. Unfortunately for her, the ship is taken over by terrorists. Musir, a young man who Leah met earlier in the day saves her life by throwing her overboard onto a life boat. Stranded with Musir, Blue McCree (a college student she met just minutes before the terrorists took over), Kent Carson (a middle aged "creepster"), and an injured unconscious woman, Leah must learn to survive and hope for rescue.
I believe that by the end of this book Leah became one of my all-time favorite female protagonist in a YA book. She's just sixteen (turns seventeen while stranded) and despite all that she encounters, all that she has to do to survive, she isn't whiny. She only had one true breakdown in the entire book and it is well deserved!
The other characters I loved as well. I felt that Haddad did a wonderful job creating them. With just a few sentences she is able to paint a picture of what these characters look like and how they act. For instance, Kent Carson, the "creepster" middle-aged survivor. He is constantly making off-hand sexual jokes towards Leah, he is lazy, and just in general creates dissent in the group. In my mind I pictured some greasy-looking white-trash version of Hugh Hefner. Then there's Blue McCree, the intellectual college student. He is a fanatic about the ecosystem and "going green" as Leah puts it. And Musir! I loved him. He is a recent immigrant to America with his parents and speaks little English though he understands it well. And boy was Leah (and I) taken with him!
The other thing I believe Haddad did very well is to create and center the plot around these characters and their survival. The things they endure are believable (at least to me!). And it truly is like a coming of age story for Leah as we see her character develop over the course of the book. One of the funniest scenes in the book that shows this is when Leah kills a snake. And not just any snake from the description. The snake is the size of a boa. It tries to attack her and she beats it with a spear, then just to be sure it is dead she hacks its head off!
For me, I loved this book! Have I said that too much already?! But no really, I loved this book! It was an easy read. I easily read it in one sitting, and I have every intention to read it again, it's that good! If you like suspense, coming-of-age stories, and a little romance, you'll enjoy this book. (Not to mention props to the author for keeping this a very clean read!) Can't wait for the sequel!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Deep Green by Trisha Haddad centers around Leah Taylor, who on her Spring Break goes on a cruise with her parents and aunt. Unfortunately for her, the ship is taken over by terrorists. Musir, a young man who Leah met earlier in the day saves her life by throwing her overboard onto a life boat. Stranded with Musir, Blue McCree (a college student she met just minutes before the terrorists took over), Kent Carson (a middle aged "creepster"), and an injured unconscious woman, Leah must learn to survive and hope for rescue.
Then again, I never was a victim of a terrorist attack. I never was a shipwreck survivor either. Times had changed. In the matter of a few days, my life was completely different. The history of my existence changed. These last few days would live with me forever when we were rescued. -Leah
I believe that by the end of this book Leah became one of my all-time favorite female protagonist in a YA book. She's just sixteen (turns seventeen while stranded) and despite all that she encounters, all that she has to do to survive, she isn't whiny. She only had one true breakdown in the entire book and it is well deserved!
The other characters I loved as well. I felt that Haddad did a wonderful job creating them. With just a few sentences she is able to paint a picture of what these characters look like and how they act. For instance, Kent Carson, the "creepster" middle-aged survivor. He is constantly making off-hand sexual jokes towards Leah, he is lazy, and just in general creates dissent in the group. In my mind I pictured some greasy-looking white-trash version of Hugh Hefner. Then there's Blue McCree, the intellectual college student. He is a fanatic about the ecosystem and "going green" as Leah puts it. And Musir! I loved him. He is a recent immigrant to America with his parents and speaks little English though he understands it well. And boy was Leah (and I) taken with him!
I could have sworn it was silent all over the ship in that moment. The ocean stood still, the wind slowed, and the other passengers walked silently. It must have been so. I certainly couldn't register a sound. It was as though the world awaited his voice and words.I think every teen girl has felt that way about a boy at some point in their life. I know I did!
-Leah
The other thing I believe Haddad did very well is to create and center the plot around these characters and their survival. The things they endure are believable (at least to me!). And it truly is like a coming of age story for Leah as we see her character develop over the course of the book. One of the funniest scenes in the book that shows this is when Leah kills a snake. And not just any snake from the description. The snake is the size of a boa. It tries to attack her and she beats it with a spear, then just to be sure it is dead she hacks its head off!
For me, I loved this book! Have I said that too much already?! But no really, I loved this book! It was an easy read. I easily read it in one sitting, and I have every intention to read it again, it's that good! If you like suspense, coming-of-age stories, and a little romance, you'll enjoy this book. (Not to mention props to the author for keeping this a very clean read!) Can't wait for the sequel!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
When I started this book I wasn’t sure what to expect. Honestly with all of the fear and bigotry directed toward people of Arabic descent lately I was a bit worried about how the author would address this and create a great story. I loved that the author was able to show how misplaced the bigotry toward people just because of how they look while at the same time creating a beautiful and sweet love story.
The story begins with Leah, her parents and her aunt enjoying their vacation on a cruise ship. They are walking around the deck when they pass a young Arabic man. Much to Leah’s dismay her aunt feels the need to wonder loudly and out loud why the ship would let a ‘terrorist’ on board the cruise ship. Leah admonishes her aunt so that the young man will know she does not feel the same way as her aunt. She and the young man do not talk but Leah feels she did the right thing in making sure he knew she did not judge him just because of where he came from. Later that night as Leah is on her way to the Captain’s Dinner she runs in to the Arabic young man, Musir, again. This time he is in a panic and cannot think clearly enough to speak English. Leah finds a young man to translate named Blue McGee. By the time Blue tells her that Musir saw people on the ship with guns the gunfire erupts inside. Blue runs off in a panic leaving Leah and Musir behind. After a moment of thinking Musir picks Leah up and tosses her over the side of the ship in to a lifeboat. What comes next is a story of survival with Blue, Musir, Leah and a couple of others that the young men rescued.
It is always nice to find YA books that are clean reads. This book has nothing inappropriate for teens or older readers. In the beginning Leah is drawn to both Blue and Musir. I will not give away the guy she ends up with but I will say it was the one I was rooting for all along. The plot was very interesting and I was a bit surprised to find out who the ‘terrorists’ were that took over the ship. It was heartbreaking to find that people were hurt just for some people to force their views on others. The only thing I wished were different in this story was that I would have liked to have more of an idea what happened after the ending. In my imagination Leah and her man are able to be together back in the real world. I whole heartedly recommend this to anyone that loves a sweet and innocent YA love story.
When I started this book I wasn’t sure what to expect. Honestly with all of the fear and bigotry directed toward people of Arabic descent lately I was a bit worried about how the author would address this and create a great story. I loved that the author was able to show how misplaced the bigotry toward people just because of how they look while at the same time creating a beautiful and sweet love story.
The story begins with Leah, her parents and her aunt enjoying their vacation on a cruise ship. They are walking around the deck when they pass a young Arabic man. Much to Leah’s dismay her aunt feels the need to wonder loudly and out loud why the ship would let a ‘terrorist’ on board the cruise ship. Leah admonishes her aunt so that the young man will know she does not feel the same way as her aunt. She and the young man do not talk but Leah feels she did the right thing in making sure he knew she did not judge him just because of where he came from. Later that night as Leah is on her way to the Captain’s Dinner she runs in to the Arabic young man, Musir, again. This time he is in a panic and cannot think clearly enough to speak English. Leah finds a young man to translate named Blue McGee. By the time Blue tells her that Musir saw people on the ship with guns the gunfire erupts inside. Blue runs off in a panic leaving Leah and Musir behind. After a moment of thinking Musir picks Leah up and tosses her over the side of the ship in to a lifeboat. What comes next is a story of survival with Blue, Musir, Leah and a couple of others that the young men rescued.
It is always nice to find YA books that are clean reads. This book has nothing inappropriate for teens or older readers. In the beginning Leah is drawn to both Blue and Musir. I will not give away the guy she ends up with but I will say it was the one I was rooting for all along. The plot was very interesting and I was a bit surprised to find out who the ‘terrorists’ were that took over the ship. It was heartbreaking to find that people were hurt just for some people to force their views on others. The only thing I wished were different in this story was that I would have liked to have more of an idea what happened after the ending. In my imagination Leah and her man are able to be together back in the real world. I whole heartedly recommend this to anyone that loves a sweet and innocent YA love story.
December 11, 2013
(I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
This was another book that succeeded quite well in pulling me into the story and making me care about the characters.
As much as I really dislike love triangles in books, this was at least tolerable and made sense. I figured out pretty early on what the deal was with Blue - and I have to say, I'm a bit surprised that Leah didn't suspect at the very least, given the amount of verbal clues.
I really didn't like Kent. He was the very epitome of 'dirty old man'. I felt my skin crawling with most of what he said. At the same time, however, there were glimpses of a different side to him. I felt that all of the characters were fairly well-rounded and interesting - also well-written.
I really liked Musir as a character and I thought that the language barrier came across quite well. I also liked how the characters were able to adapt to living on the island. I could really believe in Leah's and Musir's relationship.
The first person perspective worked quite well and it was really nice to see a book that just stuck to one first person perspective. However, there was at least one occasion where Leah said Musir did something - which she couldn't have known about, since she was sleeping at the time. Apart from that, however, I found the book to be really well-written, with very few mistakes, if any.
I would definitely be interested in reading more books by this author in the near future.
(This review may contain spoilers).
This was another book that succeeded quite well in pulling me into the story and making me care about the characters.
As much as I really dislike love triangles in books, this was at least tolerable and made sense. I figured out pretty early on what the deal was with Blue - and I have to say, I'm a bit surprised that Leah didn't suspect at the very least, given the amount of verbal clues.
I really didn't like Kent. He was the very epitome of 'dirty old man'. I felt my skin crawling with most of what he said. At the same time, however, there were glimpses of a different side to him. I felt that all of the characters were fairly well-rounded and interesting - also well-written.
I really liked Musir as a character and I thought that the language barrier came across quite well. I also liked how the characters were able to adapt to living on the island. I could really believe in Leah's and Musir's relationship.
The first person perspective worked quite well and it was really nice to see a book that just stuck to one first person perspective. However, there was at least one occasion where Leah said Musir did something - which she couldn't have known about, since she was sleeping at the time. Apart from that, however, I found the book to be really well-written, with very few mistakes, if any.
I would definitely be interested in reading more books by this author in the near future.
February 15, 2014
3.5/5.0
“Deep Green” is a harrowing adventure story. The characters are the centerpiece, each so different yet thrown together in a struggle for survival.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
“Deep Green” is a harrowing adventure story. The characters are the centerpiece, each so different yet thrown together in a struggle for survival.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
October 18, 2014
WOW. THIS BOOK WAS PERFECT. CANNOT WAIT FOR THE SEQUEL. LOVED EVERY CHAPTER.
August 15, 2023
Deep green was an excellent book. I loved the story and how the characters came together. I enjoyed the fact that Leah got fed up with the boys and that she was hard to get she didn't fawn over the boys even though she knew they were interested in her. The scene where Leah walks out of the jungle with the snake was my favourite. That was a turning point for the character. The on.y thing I didn't like about the book was that we dont get to find out what happens next for Leah. I look forward to reading more books by Trisha.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
May 31, 2014
I received this book for free from the author to review.
Overall, I completely love this book, Deep Green by Trisha Haddad. Easily a 5 star novel!It is funny because I have started to read Lord of the Flies alongside this book and they both have similarities! The amount of YA romance in it is just perfect for me; I hate books where the romance is just tossed around as a lure for teens because half of us don't like poorly written romantic rubbish; we love books like Deep Green where real thought has been put in and you can understand the character's emotions. One of the best books I have read this year.
The Book Deep Green begins with the main character, a bookworm called Leah, on a cruise with her parents and Aunt. Here she meets a striking Arabic boy, Musir, just before a terrible plan unveils.
Within hours, terrorists with guns and other weapons attack the boat. Leah and Musir jump overboard, leaving their family and their pasts behind, only taking with them an unconscious lady, a retired fisherman (Kent Carson) and a young philosophy student and literature lover(Blue McCree). After paddling for a while, the unexpected happens. Romance, death, and the fight for ones life.
---- Spoilers and my personal experience with story----
I felt that the book started quite slowly, the first ten pages of introducing Leah and her family was quite funny (especially her "semi-racist" Aunt Crystal). After reading about Leah's approach to Musir, I was thinking, "Uugh, predictable, he is either gonna die or she is totally going to fall in love with him!" Then, as the story unfolded, I completely changed my mind as the Blue-Musir-Leah love triangle formed. If you read my updates, you would realize that I was utterly into the Bleah (Blue and Leah) and that Musir was just some sexy control freak (especially after he punched Blue). I thought it was so sweet that Blue was so courteous and had so much in common with Leah, like it was meant to be. Leah was also in some way towing the boys emotions (always staring at Musir's body while being truly interested in Blue). After just reading the reviews, most people were rooting for Musir whereas I was far in the opposite direction
Musir, as I stated before, was always just "sexy control freak" to me. I never thought of him much as a teenager, he is way too mature (especially with the 19 year olds I know). He was always in my mind as just of protector of Leah, like a third parent. His feelings of jealousy when he saw Bleah together were to me just a protectiveness; wanting to keep her safe from everything out there.
In the climax of the novel, after seeing Kent's true colours and a fit of gasps and tears on my behalf after learning all of Blue's secrets in the middle of my English class(not that it was that heart-wrenching, but I have trouble dealing with surprising things like that, also I was reading in the middle of English because I was having one of those days where I couldn't put the book down), I completely lost it, I couldn't stand Blue, hated him for life. I would have stabbed him, although it wasn't fully his fault.
The writing and the grammar and all that jazz looked fine to me. However I am soooo not one to judge if you looked at my essays. The plot was really immaculately planned out and I am so grateful for that, sometimes you read books and you can just read where the author got bored with a character and killed them off, or something incredibly dull happened to them so they couldn't come back for the rest of the story.
I know this isn't much of a review, but I am not much of a reviewer, I am usually in for those 3 sentence reviews which just say, "really good book, good plot, nice characters..." but I didn't think that those sort of reviews did this story justice. I recommend the whole story and just Trisha Haddad as an author because although I have only read one of her books, I have read the blurb of a couple of others on her website and know her stories are completely ON-POINT. I really want to read another one of Trisha Haddad's books because this one was so good and Deep Green is totally going in my favourites this month. So, please Trisha, write more!!!!
Overall, I completely love this book, Deep Green by Trisha Haddad. Easily a 5 star novel!It is funny because I have started to read Lord of the Flies alongside this book and they both have similarities! The amount of YA romance in it is just perfect for me; I hate books where the romance is just tossed around as a lure for teens because half of us don't like poorly written romantic rubbish; we love books like Deep Green where real thought has been put in and you can understand the character's emotions. One of the best books I have read this year.
The Book Deep Green begins with the main character, a bookworm called Leah, on a cruise with her parents and Aunt. Here she meets a striking Arabic boy, Musir, just before a terrible plan unveils.
Within hours, terrorists with guns and other weapons attack the boat. Leah and Musir jump overboard, leaving their family and their pasts behind, only taking with them an unconscious lady, a retired fisherman (Kent Carson) and a young philosophy student and literature lover(Blue McCree). After paddling for a while, the unexpected happens. Romance, death, and the fight for ones life.
---- Spoilers and my personal experience with story----
I felt that the book started quite slowly, the first ten pages of introducing Leah and her family was quite funny (especially her "semi-racist" Aunt Crystal). After reading about Leah's approach to Musir, I was thinking, "Uugh, predictable, he is either gonna die or she is totally going to fall in love with him!" Then, as the story unfolded, I completely changed my mind as the Blue-Musir-Leah love triangle formed. If you read my updates, you would realize that I was utterly into the Bleah (Blue and Leah) and that Musir was just some sexy control freak (especially after he punched Blue). I thought it was so sweet that Blue was so courteous and had so much in common with Leah, like it was meant to be. Leah was also in some way towing the boys emotions (always staring at Musir's body while being truly interested in Blue). After just reading the reviews, most people were rooting for Musir whereas I was far in the opposite direction
Musir, as I stated before, was always just "sexy control freak" to me. I never thought of him much as a teenager, he is way too mature (especially with the 19 year olds I know). He was always in my mind as just of protector of Leah, like a third parent. His feelings of jealousy when he saw Bleah together were to me just a protectiveness; wanting to keep her safe from everything out there.
In the climax of the novel, after seeing Kent's true colours and a fit of gasps and tears on my behalf after learning all of Blue's secrets in the middle of my English class(not that it was that heart-wrenching, but I have trouble dealing with surprising things like that, also I was reading in the middle of English because I was having one of those days where I couldn't put the book down), I completely lost it, I couldn't stand Blue, hated him for life. I would have stabbed him, although it wasn't fully his fault.
The writing and the grammar and all that jazz looked fine to me. However I am soooo not one to judge if you looked at my essays. The plot was really immaculately planned out and I am so grateful for that, sometimes you read books and you can just read where the author got bored with a character and killed them off, or something incredibly dull happened to them so they couldn't come back for the rest of the story.
I know this isn't much of a review, but I am not much of a reviewer, I am usually in for those 3 sentence reviews which just say, "really good book, good plot, nice characters..." but I didn't think that those sort of reviews did this story justice. I recommend the whole story and just Trisha Haddad as an author because although I have only read one of her books, I have read the blurb of a couple of others on her website and know her stories are completely ON-POINT. I really want to read another one of Trisha Haddad's books because this one was so good and Deep Green is totally going in my favourites this month. So, please Trisha, write more!!!!
May 2, 2016
4.5
This book was given to me by the author for free in exchange of an honest review.
First of all, I would like to thank miss Trisha for the great book.
I have not been able to let go of this book since I started reading it. It really was a nice book to read.
Leah-She is they type of girl who would rather confine herself in her room than go out and meet new people. She loves reading books that are romantic and often finds herself compairing them to real life boys. She then meets Musir and develops a crush on him. She
develops into a strong and independent girl throughout the book. She is usually faced with the tie-breaking decision being made by Blue Mcree and Musir.
Musir-my oh my. Apparently he can do anything, from saving a girl's life, make a sundial, a calendar and all. What he can't do is fish. Hahaha ironically, that's the only thing mister Carson can do. Musir is a very protective, caring, conservative and skillful man. Leah finds herself drawn to his dark round eyes and his dark muscular body.
Blue-Sometimes I feel some negative vibes from him, I don't know. I just feel like his constant chatter about himself is annoying me. Haha.
Kent-I didn't like him from the beginning haha I can really feel the tension every time he opens his mouth.
All in all, I like the story. It has all kinds of themes in it. I wanted more from the characters! I wanna know what happens next :D hahaha please more. More Musir! haha
This book was given to me by the author for free in exchange of an honest review.
First of all, I would like to thank miss Trisha for the great book.
I have not been able to let go of this book since I started reading it. It really was a nice book to read.
Leah-She is they type of girl who would rather confine herself in her room than go out and meet new people. She loves reading books that are romantic and often finds herself compairing them to real life boys. She then meets Musir and develops a crush on him. She
develops into a strong and independent girl throughout the book. She is usually faced with the tie-breaking decision being made by Blue Mcree and Musir.
Musir-my oh my. Apparently he can do anything, from saving a girl's life, make a sundial, a calendar and all. What he can't do is fish. Hahaha ironically, that's the only thing mister Carson can do. Musir is a very protective, caring, conservative and skillful man. Leah finds herself drawn to his dark round eyes and his dark muscular body.
Blue-Sometimes I feel some negative vibes from him, I don't know. I just feel like his constant chatter about himself is annoying me. Haha.
Kent-I didn't like him from the beginning haha I can really feel the tension every time he opens his mouth.
All in all, I like the story. It has all kinds of themes in it. I wanted more from the characters! I wanna know what happens next :D hahaha please more. More Musir! haha
November 20, 2013
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
As Leah is arriving at the Captain’s Dinner on her cruise ship, she notices fear on the face of Musir, the quiet Middle Eastern teenager she’s been noticing on the ship. She finds someone to translate his Arabic to English, but it’s too late. Minutes later, gunfire breaks out inside the dining room. In a panic, Musir, Blue the translator, and Leah jump overboard, landing in a lifeboat. While Leah’s unconscious, they’re joined by another man and a badly injured woman, and the group paddles away from the cruise ship.
By the time Leah woke up, the group was alone, adrift in the ocean in only the small lifeboat. I was on the edge of my seat as they faced worries of sunburn, a lack of food and fresh water, and disagreement over the decision of whether to continue paddling in hopes of reaching land or staying (relatively) put where they were in the middle of the ocean, with the possibility of rescue. There was also growing concern over the unconscious woman’s fate. Eventually finding land, they were able to solve some of their problems: food, water, and shelter.
Musir knew English but wasn’t confident enough in his proficiency to speak it at first, so it was harder for Leah to get to know him than Blue or even Kent, the third man. Although I liked him at first, I quickly found Blue and his discussion of philosophy and literature to be too pretentious to bother with, and it made me happy to read of Leah’s growing frustration with him too. She was flattered by his attention at first, but soon realized he was talking AT her instead of with her.
The best parts of the book took place on the island, when the group could split up and go in search of food and water instead of all being stuck together on the boat. They were there for quite a long time — over a month — before circumstances forced them to admit that rescue might not come unless they took action themselves, and that they likely wouldn’t all survive. It was easy for me to see how they might be lulled into complacency up until that point. Living on the island was easier than going out in search of help when they had no idea where they were or where to find inhabited land.
Deep Green is a short book with an interesting and unusual story. With all the stories in the news about troubles on cruise ships over the past few years, I could imagine something like this happening. I just wish Deep Green was a little longer. There are a few more things I would have liked to read about: Leah’s reunion with her family and a more thorough explanation of what happened to the other survivors from the island.
As Leah is arriving at the Captain’s Dinner on her cruise ship, she notices fear on the face of Musir, the quiet Middle Eastern teenager she’s been noticing on the ship. She finds someone to translate his Arabic to English, but it’s too late. Minutes later, gunfire breaks out inside the dining room. In a panic, Musir, Blue the translator, and Leah jump overboard, landing in a lifeboat. While Leah’s unconscious, they’re joined by another man and a badly injured woman, and the group paddles away from the cruise ship.
By the time Leah woke up, the group was alone, adrift in the ocean in only the small lifeboat. I was on the edge of my seat as they faced worries of sunburn, a lack of food and fresh water, and disagreement over the decision of whether to continue paddling in hopes of reaching land or staying (relatively) put where they were in the middle of the ocean, with the possibility of rescue. There was also growing concern over the unconscious woman’s fate. Eventually finding land, they were able to solve some of their problems: food, water, and shelter.
Musir knew English but wasn’t confident enough in his proficiency to speak it at first, so it was harder for Leah to get to know him than Blue or even Kent, the third man. Although I liked him at first, I quickly found Blue and his discussion of philosophy and literature to be too pretentious to bother with, and it made me happy to read of Leah’s growing frustration with him too. She was flattered by his attention at first, but soon realized he was talking AT her instead of with her.
The best parts of the book took place on the island, when the group could split up and go in search of food and water instead of all being stuck together on the boat. They were there for quite a long time — over a month — before circumstances forced them to admit that rescue might not come unless they took action themselves, and that they likely wouldn’t all survive. It was easy for me to see how they might be lulled into complacency up until that point. Living on the island was easier than going out in search of help when they had no idea where they were or where to find inhabited land.
Deep Green is a short book with an interesting and unusual story. With all the stories in the news about troubles on cruise ships over the past few years, I could imagine something like this happening. I just wish Deep Green was a little longer. There are a few more things I would have liked to read about: Leah’s reunion with her family and a more thorough explanation of what happened to the other survivors from the island.
February 25, 2014
I received this book for a review.
Easily a 5 star novel! Everything I have to at about this are all good things.
At first I was pulled into the novel after reading the pitch, but I really didn't know what to think. Then I started reading it and was sucked instantly in after reading the first few pages. When the plot took off, and drama unfolds, it only gets better.
The story consists of four people (one teenage girl, one teenage Arabian guy, one college guy and an older, middle aged gross man) who escaped an attack on the cruise ship and managed to get to an island for food and shelter. Throughout the story a live triangle grows between the girl and two teenage guys.
Though love triangles seem to be a common thing in YA fiction, the author presented this one in a nice unique way. The character, Leah, first meets the Arabian boy, Musir, and is instantly drawn in by his dark looks. It's only later, when she needs a translator (because she believed Musir spoke no English) she meets Blue, the college guy. At first there's no connection between the two, but later on the lifeboat and the island, Leah learns they have similar interests and realizes he's good looking.
Personally, I was shipping Leah and Musir that whole time. Maybe it's the dark brooding thing he had going on...I don't know... I just preferred him to Blue. He was also very protective of Leah, and seemed jealous when Leah and Blue would go off alone. Also, it's nice to see a main character of a different race.
Later in the novel, after the older man does what Musir was always afraid that he'd do, we learn the truth about Blue. And this is where the novel got even better. It was like a bright light just went on and all you'll keep thinking is ohmygod!ohmygod!ohmygod!
As for the writing, I found the author did is very well. It was a nice tone, written well. I noticed the author missed a few commas that go before names but that's it.
It's a quick read, but while reading it makes you wish it was so much longer. (Only took me 3 hours to read.) After the big oh my! part, the plot speeds up.the relationship between Leah and Musir picks up, which is cute, but then the ending comes quickly. The only thing I really wish was different with the book, is the ending. Once they're saved, we don't get much of an insight of what happens next. We can just assume that Musir and Leah ends up together, but as for general life afterwards, who knows.
I'm not so good at this review stuff, so to sum it up: great plot, super characters, wonderful writing and overall fantastic read for anyone looking for a quick read with some adventure and romance.
Easily a 5 star novel! Everything I have to at about this are all good things.
At first I was pulled into the novel after reading the pitch, but I really didn't know what to think. Then I started reading it and was sucked instantly in after reading the first few pages. When the plot took off, and drama unfolds, it only gets better.
The story consists of four people (one teenage girl, one teenage Arabian guy, one college guy and an older, middle aged gross man) who escaped an attack on the cruise ship and managed to get to an island for food and shelter. Throughout the story a live triangle grows between the girl and two teenage guys.
Though love triangles seem to be a common thing in YA fiction, the author presented this one in a nice unique way. The character, Leah, first meets the Arabian boy, Musir, and is instantly drawn in by his dark looks. It's only later, when she needs a translator (because she believed Musir spoke no English) she meets Blue, the college guy. At first there's no connection between the two, but later on the lifeboat and the island, Leah learns they have similar interests and realizes he's good looking.
Personally, I was shipping Leah and Musir that whole time. Maybe it's the dark brooding thing he had going on...I don't know... I just preferred him to Blue. He was also very protective of Leah, and seemed jealous when Leah and Blue would go off alone. Also, it's nice to see a main character of a different race.
Later in the novel, after the older man does what Musir was always afraid that he'd do, we learn the truth about Blue. And this is where the novel got even better. It was like a bright light just went on and all you'll keep thinking is ohmygod!ohmygod!ohmygod!
As for the writing, I found the author did is very well. It was a nice tone, written well. I noticed the author missed a few commas that go before names but that's it.
It's a quick read, but while reading it makes you wish it was so much longer. (Only took me 3 hours to read.) After the big oh my! part, the plot speeds up.the relationship between Leah and Musir picks up, which is cute, but then the ending comes quickly. The only thing I really wish was different with the book, is the ending. Once they're saved, we don't get much of an insight of what happens next. We can just assume that Musir and Leah ends up together, but as for general life afterwards, who knows.
I'm not so good at this review stuff, so to sum it up: great plot, super characters, wonderful writing and overall fantastic read for anyone looking for a quick read with some adventure and romance.
December 14, 2013
Christy originally posted this review for me at http://onceuponayabook.blogspot.com
Christy's Review: We received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I read Deep Green in twelve hours. No really. Twelve hours.
This coming-of-age story follows Leah as she is forced to come out of her shell in a life or death situation. Leah discovers how strong she really is. The author addresses prejudice, abuse, and relationships with men in a way that makes it easy for the target audience to relate to. I enjoyed the references to classic literature and appreciate how the protagonist is intelligent and is okay with that. She prefers books to other activities. Her courage and spirit are uplifting.
The story begins on a cruise ship, which is taken over by a group of men and women with guns. Musir tries to tell someone there is something going on, but speaking English is difficult for him, especially when he is upset. He tries to tell Leah what he has seen, but she does not understand him. She finds Blue McCree in the dining hall, and he comes to translate the Arabic for Musir. Things explode in a fury of guns and screaming. Musir grabs Leah and unceremoniously throws her overboard! Luckily there is a lifeboat there to break her fall. Gunmen try to stop them, but Musir is able to launch the lifeboat before they are stopped. Leah falls hard upon launch and is knocked out cold. She awakens to find that she is on board a lifeboat with four people she does not know. Blue McCree is a talkative idealist and student in college. Musir is a quiet, intense young Arabic man, whose actions speak louder than his words. Kent Carson is man, presumably to be in his fifties, who is a bit of a chovanist and makes Leah uncomfortable. That leaves an unnamed woman who was injured badly when she jumped from the ship. After several days the supplies on board are dwindling, and the group decides to seek land and sustenance. What follows is an adventure, to say the least. The differences in Blue and Musir, who are competing for Leah's affection, are obvious. Leah must decide...does she choose the scholarly college student or does she choose the quiet young Arabic man.
This is a beautiful story and is well written. I was rooting for Leah and a particular boy all along. I can't tell you who, that would spoil the fun! As a teacher of middle grade students, I would encourage teenage girls to read this adventure. I might even read it again. :)
Christy's Review: We received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I read Deep Green in twelve hours. No really. Twelve hours.
This coming-of-age story follows Leah as she is forced to come out of her shell in a life or death situation. Leah discovers how strong she really is. The author addresses prejudice, abuse, and relationships with men in a way that makes it easy for the target audience to relate to. I enjoyed the references to classic literature and appreciate how the protagonist is intelligent and is okay with that. She prefers books to other activities. Her courage and spirit are uplifting.
The story begins on a cruise ship, which is taken over by a group of men and women with guns. Musir tries to tell someone there is something going on, but speaking English is difficult for him, especially when he is upset. He tries to tell Leah what he has seen, but she does not understand him. She finds Blue McCree in the dining hall, and he comes to translate the Arabic for Musir. Things explode in a fury of guns and screaming. Musir grabs Leah and unceremoniously throws her overboard! Luckily there is a lifeboat there to break her fall. Gunmen try to stop them, but Musir is able to launch the lifeboat before they are stopped. Leah falls hard upon launch and is knocked out cold. She awakens to find that she is on board a lifeboat with four people she does not know. Blue McCree is a talkative idealist and student in college. Musir is a quiet, intense young Arabic man, whose actions speak louder than his words. Kent Carson is man, presumably to be in his fifties, who is a bit of a chovanist and makes Leah uncomfortable. That leaves an unnamed woman who was injured badly when she jumped from the ship. After several days the supplies on board are dwindling, and the group decides to seek land and sustenance. What follows is an adventure, to say the least. The differences in Blue and Musir, who are competing for Leah's affection, are obvious. Leah must decide...does she choose the scholarly college student or does she choose the quiet young Arabic man.
This is a beautiful story and is well written. I was rooting for Leah and a particular boy all along. I can't tell you who, that would spoil the fun! As a teacher of middle grade students, I would encourage teenage girls to read this adventure. I might even read it again. :)
March 8, 2014
I received this book for free from the author for an honest review.
Not kidding, this was a book that had me wanting to see what happens next. I wanted to know what those dark secrets were and who had them ever since reading the synopsis!
Leah prefers the boys (and adventures) in books, but during a cruise with her parents, a terrorist attack leaves her adrift in a lifeboat with strangers. University student, Blue McCree impresses her immediately with his knowledge of literature and philosophy. Equally interesting is strong, quiet Musir, whose chivalry and wisdom capture Leah’s curiosity.
Together they face danger after danger as they fight for survival. Leah also struggles with the growing attention from the men she's stranded with, and her mixed emotions toward them. When Leah learns the dark secrets her fellow survivors hold, the truth will blow apart any semblance of civility and test Leah’s preconceived notions of just how far dedication can go before it crosses over into fanaticism.
Characters:
Musir-
Leah-
Blue McCree-
See how I put her picture between theirs? Yeah, it's a love triangle!! I'm team Musir, though if Blue McCree actually looked like Daniel Sharman then I'm definitely on his team. ;)
Anyway, back to the review, I've always loved books that have to do with islands, cruise ships, the sea, and family vacation. It was a fun read that depicted the characters very well. Leah was also a rational thinker like me, which maybe had me like the book even more!
If there is going to be a sequel, it better come out this year 'cause I can't wait!
April 2, 2014
Seventeen year-old Leah Taylor is having the best time with her family on a cruise…NOT!
On the night of the Captain’s Dinner, the cruise ship falls under attack by some passengers with a plan.
The strange, but very handsome Arabic guy is one of the first to see the “terrorist” passengers with their weapons. He runs to search for help, finding Leah.
As the invasion-and shootings-begin, Leah finds herself fleeing the scene with Musir (the Arabic guy) and a few other innocent passengers.
Leah’s journey is what I would consider heroic. You have this intelligent seventeen year-old girl (Believe me, you will sometimes forget she is only seventeen!) who literally gets thrown out of the life she knew, forced into survival mode.
The new “family” eventually locate an island to call “home.” They set up camp and as the days and nights start to have a bit of normalcy, the gang discovers that one of its members were a part of the group that had attacked the cruise ship.
Leah and Musir find themselves on the island alone. His mysteriously dark layer dissolves bit-by-bit as he opens up to her about his tragic past. She can’t help but fall in love with the man…but just as before, fate takes a twisted turn and the pair must attempt to find rescue or one will die.
Reading this adventurous story reminded me not to take anything for granted, small stuff like Jell-O included. Everything can be gone before you know it. Leah’s story is definitely an inspiringly sweet read.
You may never have been forced to learn how to survive on a deserted island, but you will experience it as Leah does. The story will intertwine into the story with its characters as they keep themselves alive on such limited resources.
I would definitely recommend this book to the young adult (even adult) readers it is intended for. As humans, we sometimes forget that we are fit to be wild. This book certainly gives you that, “Heck yeah we are meant to be wild!”-feeling.
As a reader, I would have loved to have read more on Leah and Musir. They end up being the only ones left on the island, but it felt as if their time together had been a bit rushed. I’m not sure if I felt this way because it was drawing to the end of the story or what. Before it’s all said and done, we know that Leah has fallen in love with Musir…sure, these two have some moments of romance, but has he fallen for her as well?
That is the only major issue I had with this story. Whether or not Musir has fallen for Leah. Oh…and I would’ve loved to have seen Crystal’s reaction to who Leah’s survival buddy! :)
On the night of the Captain’s Dinner, the cruise ship falls under attack by some passengers with a plan.
The strange, but very handsome Arabic guy is one of the first to see the “terrorist” passengers with their weapons. He runs to search for help, finding Leah.
As the invasion-and shootings-begin, Leah finds herself fleeing the scene with Musir (the Arabic guy) and a few other innocent passengers.
Leah’s journey is what I would consider heroic. You have this intelligent seventeen year-old girl (Believe me, you will sometimes forget she is only seventeen!) who literally gets thrown out of the life she knew, forced into survival mode.
The new “family” eventually locate an island to call “home.” They set up camp and as the days and nights start to have a bit of normalcy, the gang discovers that one of its members were a part of the group that had attacked the cruise ship.
Leah and Musir find themselves on the island alone. His mysteriously dark layer dissolves bit-by-bit as he opens up to her about his tragic past. She can’t help but fall in love with the man…but just as before, fate takes a twisted turn and the pair must attempt to find rescue or one will die.
Reading this adventurous story reminded me not to take anything for granted, small stuff like Jell-O included. Everything can be gone before you know it. Leah’s story is definitely an inspiringly sweet read.
You may never have been forced to learn how to survive on a deserted island, but you will experience it as Leah does. The story will intertwine into the story with its characters as they keep themselves alive on such limited resources.
I would definitely recommend this book to the young adult (even adult) readers it is intended for. As humans, we sometimes forget that we are fit to be wild. This book certainly gives you that, “Heck yeah we are meant to be wild!”-feeling.
As a reader, I would have loved to have read more on Leah and Musir. They end up being the only ones left on the island, but it felt as if their time together had been a bit rushed. I’m not sure if I felt this way because it was drawing to the end of the story or what. Before it’s all said and done, we know that Leah has fallen in love with Musir…sure, these two have some moments of romance, but has he fallen for her as well?
That is the only major issue I had with this story. Whether or not Musir has fallen for Leah. Oh…and I would’ve loved to have seen Crystal’s reaction to who Leah’s survival buddy! :)
February 27, 2014
This is really a very interesting read and I couldn't put it down once I started reading.
Leah is on a cruise with her family when suddenly there was a terrorist attack. She was saved by a guy she met earlier that day and was tossed to a lifeboat. Here, starts the adventure of Leah with the company of others especially the guy who saved her. Now, Leah has to do what it takes to survive especially when they were stranded in a boat and landed on a deserted island.
This was a really more about Leah's coming of age and how she adapted to her situation and matured and most of all it's about survival. I can relate to Leah's shyness but being stuck for weeks in the middle of nowhere she became more outspoken and along the way she realizes and feels what love is.
I really loved Musir. He was mature for his age and smarter in terms of what to do in order to survive. I like that he is a gentleman and that he's concern for others is very touching and his involvement in trying to do right thing is one of the aspect I loved most about him which can't be said the same for others. Although Musir and Leah's relationship wasn't the focus of the story they were really cute together and the waiting for their romantic relationship to start was killing me. There romance wasn't really the focus of the story but I actually learned a lot and it comes more of being realistic.
But I wished there was more to the ending. It wasn't as satisfying as I thought it would be. But everything turned out for the better.
I did not like Kent especially his lewd comments. He's the epitome of a dirty old man. I won't say anymore but I'm glad he's out of the way.
About Blue, I wasn't on his side for the romance between him and Leah plus I did not see that little twist in the story about him.
I received a copy from Never Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books
Leah is on a cruise with her family when suddenly there was a terrorist attack. She was saved by a guy she met earlier that day and was tossed to a lifeboat. Here, starts the adventure of Leah with the company of others especially the guy who saved her. Now, Leah has to do what it takes to survive especially when they were stranded in a boat and landed on a deserted island.
This was a really more about Leah's coming of age and how she adapted to her situation and matured and most of all it's about survival. I can relate to Leah's shyness but being stuck for weeks in the middle of nowhere she became more outspoken and along the way she realizes and feels what love is.
I really loved Musir. He was mature for his age and smarter in terms of what to do in order to survive. I like that he is a gentleman and that he's concern for others is very touching and his involvement in trying to do right thing is one of the aspect I loved most about him which can't be said the same for others. Although Musir and Leah's relationship wasn't the focus of the story they were really cute together and the waiting for their romantic relationship to start was killing me. There romance wasn't really the focus of the story but I actually learned a lot and it comes more of being realistic.
But I wished there was more to the ending. It wasn't as satisfying as I thought it would be. But everything turned out for the better.
I did not like Kent especially his lewd comments. He's the epitome of a dirty old man. I won't say anymore but I'm glad he's out of the way.
About Blue, I wasn't on his side for the romance between him and Leah plus I did not see that little twist in the story about him.
I received a copy from Never Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books
August 5, 2016
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Deep Green follows the story of Leah Taylor, a reclusive bookworm, who is on a cruise with her parents and aunt. One day she meets an Arabic boy on the cruise.Later, when gunshots are heard, Musir(Arabic hot guy)tosses her into a boat and then Musir, Leah, Blue(arabic translator), Kent Carson and the-lady-whose-name-we-will-never-find-out whisk away from the cruise. Just like some other Hollywood movies and books, this book is a remainder of the fact that boats, cruises and ships are not safe at all(just kidding).
In the beginning, it looked like a love triangle was starting, but the main hero was actually the one who had my vote. So:))))
I always read paranormal romance, so it came as a great shock to me that I liked this book so much. There were no vampires, werewolves, angels or anything else to steal your attention away. The plot is a great one. I am waiting eagerly for the sequel. Leah is a great protagonist. She is not a small, docile bookworm but rather much like Kat from Obsidian. I loved the scene with the snake. Even though she felt drawn to Musir from the first time she met him, the author gave their relationship a bit of time to develop and for them to understand each other. So, I liked that this book did not have any type of insta-love. That itself earned a star. O can pretty much conclude my review by saying that I loved this book.
Like I said earlier, I'm eagerly waiting for the sequel:D:D:D
Deep Green follows the story of Leah Taylor, a reclusive bookworm, who is on a cruise with her parents and aunt. One day she meets an Arabic boy on the cruise.Later, when gunshots are heard, Musir(Arabic hot guy)tosses her into a boat and then Musir, Leah, Blue(arabic translator), Kent Carson and the-lady-whose-name-we-will-never-find-out whisk away from the cruise. Just like some other Hollywood movies and books, this book is a remainder of the fact that boats, cruises and ships are not safe at all(just kidding).
In the beginning, it looked like a love triangle was starting, but the main hero was actually the one who had my vote. So:))))
I always read paranormal romance, so it came as a great shock to me that I liked this book so much. There were no vampires, werewolves, angels or anything else to steal your attention away. The plot is a great one. I am waiting eagerly for the sequel. Leah is a great protagonist. She is not a small, docile bookworm but rather much like Kat from Obsidian. I loved the scene with the snake. Even though she felt drawn to Musir from the first time she met him, the author gave their relationship a bit of time to develop and for them to understand each other. So, I liked that this book did not have any type of insta-love. That itself earned a star. O can pretty much conclude my review by saying that I loved this book.
Like I said earlier, I'm eagerly waiting for the sequel:D:D:D
December 17, 2013
**SPOILERS**
Leah was a normal girl like us (the socially awkward nerd who loves reading more than interacting with live human beings) when the cruise she was on with her family was attacked by terrorists. The story follows her survival on a life raft with 4 others and then on the island where most of them live until they are rescued.
I enjoyed this story because I liked Leah a lot. She was a strong female lead for me. Being 16 and stranded with 2 boys that are both showing interest in you probably isn’t the easiest situation in the world to be in. She handled it very well! She adapted when needed and she prevailed. There aren’t enough strong females like her in the book world!
I liked Musir more than Blue from the beginning. Blue just rubbed me the wrong way, and I was glad that Leah didn’t want more than just friendship with him. Musir was the guy from the novels she’d spent her entire life reading about so they were obviously destined to be together!
Kent - what a creeper!!
Overall, it was an easy, enjoyable read that I was able to finish in one sitting, which is nice sometimes. The only thing that I think I would have made it better is if it were more in depth. I wanted to know what happened to everyone after the island. Did Blue kill Kent? Is Blue going to be held responsible for his actions? Were Leah’s parents ok? Will Leah and Musir’s relationship continue?
Maybe there will be a sequel to answer all of my questions! :)
**REVISION** I WAS JUST INFORMED THAT THERE WILL BE A SEQUEL!!!!
Leah was a normal girl like us (the socially awkward nerd who loves reading more than interacting with live human beings) when the cruise she was on with her family was attacked by terrorists. The story follows her survival on a life raft with 4 others and then on the island where most of them live until they are rescued.
I enjoyed this story because I liked Leah a lot. She was a strong female lead for me. Being 16 and stranded with 2 boys that are both showing interest in you probably isn’t the easiest situation in the world to be in. She handled it very well! She adapted when needed and she prevailed. There aren’t enough strong females like her in the book world!
I liked Musir more than Blue from the beginning. Blue just rubbed me the wrong way, and I was glad that Leah didn’t want more than just friendship with him. Musir was the guy from the novels she’d spent her entire life reading about so they were obviously destined to be together!
Kent - what a creeper!!
Overall, it was an easy, enjoyable read that I was able to finish in one sitting, which is nice sometimes. The only thing that I think I would have made it better is if it were more in depth. I wanted to know what happened to everyone after the island. Did Blue kill Kent? Is Blue going to be held responsible for his actions? Were Leah’s parents ok? Will Leah and Musir’s relationship continue?
Maybe there will be a sequel to answer all of my questions! :)
**REVISION** I WAS JUST INFORMED THAT THERE WILL BE A SEQUEL!!!!
May 6, 2014
Loved It!
It has been a long time since I have read a "Ship wrecked," stranded story. The last one was The Lord of the Flies.
Leah is a regular girl, if not a little bit of a recluse,(I find her normal, because I hide away to read all the time too!) forced to take a cruise with her family. Where she runs into a dark mysterious stranger. He is silent, and doesn't seem much for talking, even when she introduces herself. He emanates wild emotions and causes the same kind of reaction from Leah.
When Musir (the hot, mysterious stranger) tries to warn everyone that there is danger, his tongue gets tied. (Since his first language is Arabic) he cant relay the message in time.
All heck breaks loose, during which Musir is able to toss Leah into a lifeboat, followed by himself. But once they are on the boat and away from danger, they face a new threat. Hunger, Thirst, and the other strangers that were rescues from the ship as they rowed away. Each of the people on the little life raft has a secret, something to hide. There's enough tension to keep you on your toes.
Blue, "the translator", Musir, "The dark mysterious God", Leah, "the recluse and book worm", And Kent, "the perv" I loved all the characters, even the less huggable ones. :)
The forced adventure takes many twists and turns along the way. A definite recommend. Especially for people who enjoyed Lord of the Flies, or other similar books. A quick and very enjoyable read. Only took a couple hours to devour. And if you don't have the time, FIND SOME!
It has been a long time since I have read a "Ship wrecked," stranded story. The last one was The Lord of the Flies.
Leah is a regular girl, if not a little bit of a recluse,(I find her normal, because I hide away to read all the time too!) forced to take a cruise with her family. Where she runs into a dark mysterious stranger. He is silent, and doesn't seem much for talking, even when she introduces herself. He emanates wild emotions and causes the same kind of reaction from Leah.
When Musir (the hot, mysterious stranger) tries to warn everyone that there is danger, his tongue gets tied. (Since his first language is Arabic) he cant relay the message in time.
All heck breaks loose, during which Musir is able to toss Leah into a lifeboat, followed by himself. But once they are on the boat and away from danger, they face a new threat. Hunger, Thirst, and the other strangers that were rescues from the ship as they rowed away. Each of the people on the little life raft has a secret, something to hide. There's enough tension to keep you on your toes.
Blue, "the translator", Musir, "The dark mysterious God", Leah, "the recluse and book worm", And Kent, "the perv" I loved all the characters, even the less huggable ones. :)
The forced adventure takes many twists and turns along the way. A definite recommend. Especially for people who enjoyed Lord of the Flies, or other similar books. A quick and very enjoyable read. Only took a couple hours to devour. And if you don't have the time, FIND SOME!
December 5, 2015
***Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars***
Deep Green follows the story of Leah Taylor, whose whole life changes one night on a cruise with her parents. It almost seems as though Leah knows that something is going to happen, almost like a 6th sense. And it's that last minute decision to go back to her room to get something that ends us saving her. As she goes to meet up with her parents, the cruise ship is attacked by terrorists and she finds herself alone on a lifeboat with 4 strangers.
Leah quickly learns that her companions are not all as they seem. She has an almost instant connection with Blue. He is a college student and immediately impresses her with all of his knowledge. Musir is equally as interesting to her, he is strong and chivalrous and a mystery to her.
This story is one about survival, the dangers that they must face along the way, and the truths that some hide. I think the author did a good job trying to draw the reader in. There was sort of a love triangle, but it was pretty clear who Leah was meant to be with.
Overall, I liked this book. It was a quick, easy read. I only wish that the book was a little longer. It kinda left me hanging at the end. I was left with a lot of questions, that's not always a bad thing, I just wanted more. All in all, a great debut novel and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Deep Green follows the story of Leah Taylor, whose whole life changes one night on a cruise with her parents. It almost seems as though Leah knows that something is going to happen, almost like a 6th sense. And it's that last minute decision to go back to her room to get something that ends us saving her. As she goes to meet up with her parents, the cruise ship is attacked by terrorists and she finds herself alone on a lifeboat with 4 strangers.
Leah quickly learns that her companions are not all as they seem. She has an almost instant connection with Blue. He is a college student and immediately impresses her with all of his knowledge. Musir is equally as interesting to her, he is strong and chivalrous and a mystery to her.
This story is one about survival, the dangers that they must face along the way, and the truths that some hide. I think the author did a good job trying to draw the reader in. There was sort of a love triangle, but it was pretty clear who Leah was meant to be with.
Overall, I liked this book. It was a quick, easy read. I only wish that the book was a little longer. It kinda left me hanging at the end. I was left with a lot of questions, that's not always a bad thing, I just wanted more. All in all, a great debut novel and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Deep Green is the story of a shy girl that takes a cruise with her family when it gets overrun by terrorists. She escapes with a few others in a lifeboat and they have to fight for survival together. They deal with obstacles and various personality clashes.
The story was good and well-written. I loved the characters and the imagery of the environment. It was fast paced and I didn't want to quit reading. I had to find out what happened next in this survival story. It does have a little Life of Pi in it, except for with more castaways and not just one.
The character development was lacking. I can't say I know a whole lot about the characters. I know basics of them, but not a whole lot. I wished more of the conversations were written out instead of just saying they talked day after day. I feel like I know who Blue is the most...he's an opinionated environmental extremist. However, I don't know much about Musir or even Leah. The book should've been longer to expand on the relationships. There was hardly any conversations between Musir and Leah that showed their friendship growing.
The ending could be predictable, but it wasn't necessarily for me. Mostly since I don't try to overthink it and predict books or movies. I liked how it ended and it shows how crazy some people can be.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I would recommend it to anyone.
Deep Green is the story of a shy girl that takes a cruise with her family when it gets overrun by terrorists. She escapes with a few others in a lifeboat and they have to fight for survival together. They deal with obstacles and various personality clashes.
The story was good and well-written. I loved the characters and the imagery of the environment. It was fast paced and I didn't want to quit reading. I had to find out what happened next in this survival story. It does have a little Life of Pi in it, except for with more castaways and not just one.
The character development was lacking. I can't say I know a whole lot about the characters. I know basics of them, but not a whole lot. I wished more of the conversations were written out instead of just saying they talked day after day. I feel like I know who Blue is the most...he's an opinionated environmental extremist. However, I don't know much about Musir or even Leah. The book should've been longer to expand on the relationships. There was hardly any conversations between Musir and Leah that showed their friendship growing.
The ending could be predictable, but it wasn't necessarily for me. Mostly since I don't try to overthink it and predict books or movies. I liked how it ended and it shows how crazy some people can be.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I would recommend it to anyone.
March 4, 2014
Received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
WOW! >_< That's it?
Ok, so I really want to read the sequel right NOW! >.< Though personally I do prefer that it should have just ended, because having a HEA would have been nice. I love them both, arrgghh
To start of, I was totally 'in' just right after reading the blurb. It's well-written and it exceeded my expectations. I may have guess a few things but it did not stop me from liking the book. I like all the characters, most especially the hero & heroine, loved the storyline, the setting, the message, the adventure, etc. Even though it was suppose to be a love triangle but for me it's so not. Yes, Leah may kind of got attracted to Blue but compared to Musir, he does not stand a chance. It's a true coming of age story, and I am happy that the author did a very good job at it. The feelings, romance, survival, interactions, situations, even the trust issues was accurate and believable. It gives you hints and lots of learning in the process.
Overall, I liked it. :) I give 4.5 because it was not entirely a page-turner as for me plus I don't like the part where it's a cliffhanger. It is still a quick and easy read nonetheless. To the author Trisha Haddad, thank you and way to go. :D
WOW! >_< That's it?
Ok, so I really want to read the sequel right NOW! >.< Though personally I do prefer that it should have just ended, because having a HEA would have been nice. I love them both, arrgghh
To start of, I was totally 'in' just right after reading the blurb. It's well-written and it exceeded my expectations. I may have guess a few things but it did not stop me from liking the book. I like all the characters, most especially the hero & heroine, loved the storyline, the setting, the message, the adventure, etc. Even though it was suppose to be a love triangle but for me it's so not. Yes, Leah may kind of got attracted to Blue but compared to Musir, he does not stand a chance. It's a true coming of age story, and I am happy that the author did a very good job at it. The feelings, romance, survival, interactions, situations, even the trust issues was accurate and believable. It gives you hints and lots of learning in the process.
Overall, I liked it. :) I give 4.5 because it was not entirely a page-turner as for me plus I don't like the part where it's a cliffhanger. It is still a quick and easy read nonetheless. To the author Trisha Haddad, thank you and way to go. :D
January 8, 2014
Okay, so this book kind of reminded me of Life of Pi at first, up until that moment when they reached the island. I'm not really a fan of stories set in an island no matter how beautiful the place may seem both in reality and in my head, and I'm quite surprised that I liked this one.
As for the main character, Leah Taylor. I like the fact that she's not another one of those clichéd damsel in distress. I was able to relate to her, especially on problems with make up and other girly stuff.
Musir was great too, and though I found Blue Mcree appealing at first, there was something intriguing about Musir that made me want to get to know him more.
As for Kent Carson. Well. I have to agree with Blue. He's a schmuck.
The dialogues were great too, though was a little miffed with Blue's hippie-ness (is that even a word?), and I had a hard time trying to figure out if I liked him or not. Well, I did at first, but as the story progressed, he started to feel like a different character.
Overall, Deep Green is a good read. The romance didn't come off as over the top unlike the other stories that are popping out these days, and the chemistry between Musir and Leah is believable.
Go read this book! :)
As for the main character, Leah Taylor. I like the fact that she's not another one of those clichéd damsel in distress. I was able to relate to her, especially on problems with make up and other girly stuff.
Musir was great too, and though I found Blue Mcree appealing at first, there was something intriguing about Musir that made me want to get to know him more.
As for Kent Carson. Well. I have to agree with Blue. He's a schmuck.
The dialogues were great too, though was a little miffed with Blue's hippie-ness (is that even a word?), and I had a hard time trying to figure out if I liked him or not. Well, I did at first, but as the story progressed, he started to feel like a different character.
Overall, Deep Green is a good read. The romance didn't come off as over the top unlike the other stories that are popping out these days, and the chemistry between Musir and Leah is believable.
Go read this book! :)
May 7, 2014
I really enjoyed reading Deep Green. I stayed up until 4am reading it and read it in a day. It starts out with the main characters meeting one another on a cruise ship. Eventually some crazy things happen and a few of the characters jump in a life boat and a few others jump overboard. That's all I will say because I hate spoilers.
I was hooked from the beginning. It was suspenseful and had a lot of romantic aspects to it. I really had no idea what was going to happen. It's young adult (which is not really my thing) but this one was very good. I'm not sure if I understood the author correctly but I believe there will be another book. Yes! I really want to know more about Leah and Musir and was sad when it ended. I need more Deep Green! I love reading about people stranded, trying to survive etc.
Oh yeah, I felt so bad for Leah being stuck in that dress! The first thing I thought about when things went south was, "Oh no, Leah is stuck in that dang ballroom gown!" If there were one thing I wouldn't want to be stuck wearing in a survival situation it would be that dress. Well, at least she had her jacket and the dress became VERY useful later on.
I was hooked from the beginning. It was suspenseful and had a lot of romantic aspects to it. I really had no idea what was going to happen. It's young adult (which is not really my thing) but this one was very good. I'm not sure if I understood the author correctly but I believe there will be another book. Yes! I really want to know more about Leah and Musir and was sad when it ended. I need more Deep Green! I love reading about people stranded, trying to survive etc.
Oh yeah, I felt so bad for Leah being stuck in that dress! The first thing I thought about when things went south was, "Oh no, Leah is stuck in that dang ballroom gown!" If there were one thing I wouldn't want to be stuck wearing in a survival situation it would be that dress. Well, at least she had her jacket and the dress became VERY useful later on.
February 10, 2014
I read this book in just over 24 hours because it was addictive therefore I gave it five stars out of 5. It was so addictive because of the story being based around a terrorist attack on a cruise ship and the aftermath of it.
Leah Taylor a shy sixteen year old girl who prefers the quite adventure and romance she finds in books to the adventure and romance she may have in life. During her time on the Island following the terrorist attack on the cruise ship she develops into a more confident and stronger girl., as well as finding love with one of the other Characters an Arabic Boy called Musir.
The developing love story between Leah and Musir after the other two characters Blue McCree and Kent Carson who were stranded with them left is so natural.
To begin with Musir an Arabic boy from Syria is a shy, reserved and unhappy individual until he and Leah started falling in love after Blue McCree and Kent Carson left the island. When this happens he becomes more secure, confident person because he slowly but surely opens up to Leah about his past.
Leah Taylor a shy sixteen year old girl who prefers the quite adventure and romance she finds in books to the adventure and romance she may have in life. During her time on the Island following the terrorist attack on the cruise ship she develops into a more confident and stronger girl., as well as finding love with one of the other Characters an Arabic Boy called Musir.
The developing love story between Leah and Musir after the other two characters Blue McCree and Kent Carson who were stranded with them left is so natural.
To begin with Musir an Arabic boy from Syria is a shy, reserved and unhappy individual until he and Leah started falling in love after Blue McCree and Kent Carson left the island. When this happens he becomes more secure, confident person because he slowly but surely opens up to Leah about his past.
September 29, 2014
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
I read this book in one day, I literally could not put it down. I enjoyed this book so much! The pacing, the plot, the characters-all were very well done and made for an exciting read. Leah is a great character to get to know and follow. She was very easy to relate too and I felt myself wanting things to work out for her. Musir was a great character as well and although at times he seemed a little too good, you still wanted things to work out for him.
I wasn't quite sure about this book at first. Stranded on an island can be entertaining to watch, but I wasn't sure about reading about it. Turns out it is just as entertaining. I loved reading about the struggles Leah had to go through and how after conquering some of her fears she grows as a woman.
I think just about anyone would enjoy this book. It's a quick and exciting read so there is no real reason not to read this book. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story.
I read this book in one day, I literally could not put it down. I enjoyed this book so much! The pacing, the plot, the characters-all were very well done and made for an exciting read. Leah is a great character to get to know and follow. She was very easy to relate too and I felt myself wanting things to work out for her. Musir was a great character as well and although at times he seemed a little too good, you still wanted things to work out for him.
I wasn't quite sure about this book at first. Stranded on an island can be entertaining to watch, but I wasn't sure about reading about it. Turns out it is just as entertaining. I loved reading about the struggles Leah had to go through and how after conquering some of her fears she grows as a woman.
I think just about anyone would enjoy this book. It's a quick and exciting read so there is no real reason not to read this book. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story.
December 14, 2013
For Leah, a young passenger on a cruise ship with her parents, life seems peaceful and relaxed (other than her aunt) until the ship is overrun by terrorists and she is thrown overboard by a handsome Arabic man. Cast adrift with Musir, another man called Blue and the dangerous Kent Carson, Leah has to find a way to retain her humanity and survive. She is not only faced with keeping alive but understanding what secrets they are each holding and who to trust.
I really enjoyed the story as it took me on a journey of survival and love with some very interesting characters. Trisha Haddad is a talented author who is able to paint a vivid picture of the characters and their environment. I am sure you will enjoy reading it.
I really enjoyed the story as it took me on a journey of survival and love with some very interesting characters. Trisha Haddad is a talented author who is able to paint a vivid picture of the characters and their environment. I am sure you will enjoy reading it.
December 16, 2013
This is the story of a shy girl who becomes marooned on an island with 3 men after an attack on cruise ship. I don't know why the synopsis only mentions 2 when the third man is a major character also.
Leah, Musir and Blue manage to escape in a lifeboat and rescue Kent along the way. They come to a deserted island where they make camp and hope for rescue. It becomes more apparent that Kent is a preverted old man, Musir and Blue agree he shouldn't be left alone with Leah. Blue and Leah become closer until a secret Blue is hiding comes out. Plans change throwing the quiet Musir and Leah closer together.
The writing is good but the characters aren't very memorable.
I received this copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
Leah, Musir and Blue manage to escape in a lifeboat and rescue Kent along the way. They come to a deserted island where they make camp and hope for rescue. It becomes more apparent that Kent is a preverted old man, Musir and Blue agree he shouldn't be left alone with Leah. Blue and Leah become closer until a secret Blue is hiding comes out. Plans change throwing the quiet Musir and Leah closer together.
The writing is good but the characters aren't very memorable.
I received this copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
February 28, 2014
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review
Deep Green was a new concept for me and it was a good break from all the fantasies I've been reading. After reading the blurb, I got really interested and grab the opportunity of reading it. I love every second of it and that twist, wow! I really did not see it coming. I was so surprised that i turned that way. After reading the whole story, I thought to myself that along the read, there were some hints about that twist but it was well written that it was so concealed and you won't recognize it as a hint to the big twist if you're not yet done reading the whole book.
This book is about survival and how a good facade can be a concealer to a something dark.
Deep Green was a new concept for me and it was a good break from all the fantasies I've been reading. After reading the blurb, I got really interested and grab the opportunity of reading it. I love every second of it and that twist, wow! I really did not see it coming. I was so surprised that i turned that way. After reading the whole story, I thought to myself that along the read, there were some hints about that twist but it was well written that it was so concealed and you won't recognize it as a hint to the big twist if you're not yet done reading the whole book.
This book is about survival and how a good facade can be a concealer to a something dark.
May 11, 2014
I was falling in love with a man in a moment when he said nothing.
Because we’re not meant for fluorescent lights, cubicles, classrooms, saying please and thank you, perfectly mowed lawns, and smooth pavements. We’re made wild. The world tames us. It just feel good to be wild a little now and then.
The plot wasn't quite capturing basically because of a weak point-of-view. The being-castaway vibe wasn't strongly established, instead, the story is too much focused on the romance.
The characters lack depth, the story exposed only the surface area. Different perspectives might help with these.
For all its flaws, the story knew excellent literature, pointing out books, poems and idealisms.
August 28, 2016
I received this book from the author for an honest review. Now I hate to give a low review, I really do, but as I skimmed through this book ( yes skimmed, the book could not hold my attention for a proper reading) I was tying to figure out what I was missing? All other reviews have such high stars! Am I the only one who missed something here? The book is written in the dreaded YA first person. There was so much telling, and not much doing. The writing does not flow, and the story just did not catch my interest. I'm game for a YA romance as much as the next person, but this book just did not do it for me. Sorry :(
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