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Jane Burrows is the girl next door, well actually, five doors down from the new kid. She's happy with her life: she's got One True Friend, a set of wheels, and the best job ever, newspaper delivery girl! She's not even super annoyed when William McLeod starts following her around like a puppy dog. He's hot, after all. Except, what's with the spooky overprotective thing? What's with his stern opinions on ancient warfare? What's with his evasive answers to the most simple questions? Just...what's with William? If Jane's honest with herself, she wants it to be her! William's living on borrowed time. He's got three lives left before his number is up, and his dad is forcing the issue. No fighting again. Never mind the Lochspawn are hot on their tails. Nevermind they might be incriminated in four grisly murders. Nevermind the girl of his dreams is monster bait. He's supposed to sit on his hands and watch while his world goes up in Warloch flames? Yeah, no.
336 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2013
11 people are currently reading
472 people want to read
About the author
LoveVickyHolt
5 books37 followersVicky L. Holt has been writing for over two decades. An avid reader herself, she loves nothing better than appreciating a well-turned phrase. With ten books and novellas published so far, she’s been trying to turn out excellent phrases for awhile now. Her work has appeared in literary journals and websites, as well as on Amazon and store and library shelves. Ms. Holt is a mother and grandmother, and dubious owner of a wild goldendoodle puppy who eats flip flops. She rereads positive reviews and holds readers in high regard, without which, her career would be a lonely pursuit. Follow her @lovevickyholt on Twitter, lovevickyholt on Instagram, and @lovevickyholt on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 30, 2016
"It's like we have two lives going on. The one where we try for normal, and the one where we fight to keep it."
-William
Rating: 4 1/2
Please note that I received a free e-book copy of 97 from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Years and years ago, the Warlochs existed as a prominent force. It was and has always been their goal, even in present day, to have a strong rule over all people. To better describe them, Warlochs, or Battle Loch, are a group of formidable men who are gifted in the art of magic and are definitely not to be trifled with. To make their job of conquering mankind easier, they decided to construct a group of humans who would fight as their warriors, doing their dirty work for them. This task was a long and in depth process that required the most meticulous of work if they wanted to create the perfect human beings. Searching for just the right women full of health and longevity, of them twenty children were born. Thus began the race of the Warriors, or Battle Bred. While these children were allowed to stay with their mothers until their fifth year, they showed much promise and demonstrated amazing skills. They were better than any human could ever dream of being. Some were faster, stronger, and better healers than the rest of humanity. Their skills and gifts go on and on. Then, they were taken from their mother's arms to be trained as the ultimate fighting force. As they matured, they went out and conquered many peoples, but then they realized how confined they were. The Warlochs used them as simple pawns in their game, and they just wanted to live their own lives. So, the Warriors deserted their creators, spreading far and wide, falling in love, and having children. The Warlochs were furious and have since vowed to destroy ever last one of their creations, no matter how long it takes them.
Switching to present day, Jane Burrows is your average girl next door. She's beautiful in her own way...and just so happens to be a newspaper delivery girl. All's normal in her humble home in Deer Fjord, Oregon, until one family made up of a father and a son arrive in the middle of the night. The son's name is William and he quickly takes a liking to Jane the moment he sees her, and somehow she feels a magnetic attraction towards him too. For some reason, every time he opens his mouth or looks her way, Jane's face immediately burns red. William has an uncanny talent to make her blush at the smallest of things. Of course, it doesn't hurt Jane's thoughts about him when she acknowledges the fact that he has a nice face and toned body. However, the normal town with the average girl next door suddenly starts to become anything but average as strange things start to happen all around her. Also, something strange is up with William. He's not like everyone else. He's different. Little does she know, William and his father are Warriors who have been on the run from the Warlochs for years. The Warlochs have created a new spawn to kill the Warriors, and they are ferocious, killing machines. Lochspawn are on all of the Warrior's trails, and one has followed William and his dad all of the way from Toledo to Deer Fjord. Can these two ever have a normal relationship? Can William ever settle down with Jane and get the courage to tell her who and what he really is? Maybe no one is safe with his family around if the Lochspawn are going to try and kill him and those around him. So, how can you explain these two's unnatural longing for each other and how this hot mess will work out? Read 97 and discover the magic, romance, suspense, and talent that V. L. Holt can bring to the table.
I would like to start off by saying that this book exceeded all of my expectations! The story of the Warlochs and their creations were just so intriguing. From page one, I was hooked. There was something about the story line and history in the book that made it so rich. I also enjoyed how there was a switch from past to present between the time that the Warriors were being created to the time where Jane and William meet throughout the book. The story developments and background histories Holt wrote about were absolutely brilliant. It was intriguing, different, and exceptional work. I like to think that any and all fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout's Lux series will love this new series! It's just as enthralling and expertly done!
While some people have a problem with instant love, I don't find it much of an issue while reading books. Of course, instant love is exactly what happened between William and Jane, and I thought it was quite romantic. What girl doesn't like the idea of love at first sight? It's a dream come true in 97! Also, the chemistry between William and Jane seemed so natural, almost like they were destined for each other. The point of view changes were also a nice touch. Holt goes and gives us insight into each of the two's lives and thoughts. We also get to see part of a Warloch's point of view and his direct past. However, we mainly get to see through Jane's eyes.
Don't think that just because love is in the air, there's no action sequences. Have no fear because we get to witness hand to hand combat and magical battles. (Well, this is how I would categorize William and a Lochspawn fighting each other.) There's danger, suspense, and a killer plot behind this book. The ending even left me holding my breath. This means that I'm dying slowly inside as I wait to get my hands on the next book so that I can read it! 97 was a great way to begin the Rise of the Battle Bred series, and it will undoubtedly get even more amazing as the next couple of books come out! People better watch out because V. L. Holt has brought a new fantasy/paranormal romance on the scene, and I hope that people notice it. It's imaginative, enticing, captivating, and exciting. So, I have exactly three words for you: READ THE BOOK!
You can see reviews like this one and more at http://knightingalereviews.blogspot.com/.
(http://knightingalereviews.blogspot.c...)
-William
Rating: 4 1/2
Please note that I received a free e-book copy of 97 from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Years and years ago, the Warlochs existed as a prominent force. It was and has always been their goal, even in present day, to have a strong rule over all people. To better describe them, Warlochs, or Battle Loch, are a group of formidable men who are gifted in the art of magic and are definitely not to be trifled with. To make their job of conquering mankind easier, they decided to construct a group of humans who would fight as their warriors, doing their dirty work for them. This task was a long and in depth process that required the most meticulous of work if they wanted to create the perfect human beings. Searching for just the right women full of health and longevity, of them twenty children were born. Thus began the race of the Warriors, or Battle Bred. While these children were allowed to stay with their mothers until their fifth year, they showed much promise and demonstrated amazing skills. They were better than any human could ever dream of being. Some were faster, stronger, and better healers than the rest of humanity. Their skills and gifts go on and on. Then, they were taken from their mother's arms to be trained as the ultimate fighting force. As they matured, they went out and conquered many peoples, but then they realized how confined they were. The Warlochs used them as simple pawns in their game, and they just wanted to live their own lives. So, the Warriors deserted their creators, spreading far and wide, falling in love, and having children. The Warlochs were furious and have since vowed to destroy ever last one of their creations, no matter how long it takes them.
Switching to present day, Jane Burrows is your average girl next door. She's beautiful in her own way...and just so happens to be a newspaper delivery girl. All's normal in her humble home in Deer Fjord, Oregon, until one family made up of a father and a son arrive in the middle of the night. The son's name is William and he quickly takes a liking to Jane the moment he sees her, and somehow she feels a magnetic attraction towards him too. For some reason, every time he opens his mouth or looks her way, Jane's face immediately burns red. William has an uncanny talent to make her blush at the smallest of things. Of course, it doesn't hurt Jane's thoughts about him when she acknowledges the fact that he has a nice face and toned body. However, the normal town with the average girl next door suddenly starts to become anything but average as strange things start to happen all around her. Also, something strange is up with William. He's not like everyone else. He's different. Little does she know, William and his father are Warriors who have been on the run from the Warlochs for years. The Warlochs have created a new spawn to kill the Warriors, and they are ferocious, killing machines. Lochspawn are on all of the Warrior's trails, and one has followed William and his dad all of the way from Toledo to Deer Fjord. Can these two ever have a normal relationship? Can William ever settle down with Jane and get the courage to tell her who and what he really is? Maybe no one is safe with his family around if the Lochspawn are going to try and kill him and those around him. So, how can you explain these two's unnatural longing for each other and how this hot mess will work out? Read 97 and discover the magic, romance, suspense, and talent that V. L. Holt can bring to the table.
I would like to start off by saying that this book exceeded all of my expectations! The story of the Warlochs and their creations were just so intriguing. From page one, I was hooked. There was something about the story line and history in the book that made it so rich. I also enjoyed how there was a switch from past to present between the time that the Warriors were being created to the time where Jane and William meet throughout the book. The story developments and background histories Holt wrote about were absolutely brilliant. It was intriguing, different, and exceptional work. I like to think that any and all fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout's Lux series will love this new series! It's just as enthralling and expertly done!
While some people have a problem with instant love, I don't find it much of an issue while reading books. Of course, instant love is exactly what happened between William and Jane, and I thought it was quite romantic. What girl doesn't like the idea of love at first sight? It's a dream come true in 97! Also, the chemistry between William and Jane seemed so natural, almost like they were destined for each other. The point of view changes were also a nice touch. Holt goes and gives us insight into each of the two's lives and thoughts. We also get to see part of a Warloch's point of view and his direct past. However, we mainly get to see through Jane's eyes.
Don't think that just because love is in the air, there's no action sequences. Have no fear because we get to witness hand to hand combat and magical battles. (Well, this is how I would categorize William and a Lochspawn fighting each other.) There's danger, suspense, and a killer plot behind this book. The ending even left me holding my breath. This means that I'm dying slowly inside as I wait to get my hands on the next book so that I can read it! 97 was a great way to begin the Rise of the Battle Bred series, and it will undoubtedly get even more amazing as the next couple of books come out! People better watch out because V. L. Holt has brought a new fantasy/paranormal romance on the scene, and I hope that people notice it. It's imaginative, enticing, captivating, and exciting. So, I have exactly three words for you: READ THE BOOK!
You can see reviews like this one and more at http://knightingalereviews.blogspot.com/.
(http://knightingalereviews.blogspot.c...)
March 10, 2014
Upon my initial reading of the book description for “97”, I initially thought the premise sounded interesting. So, I gave it a try, expecting…well, something interesting. But what I got was so much MORE than interesting, “97” is an engaging story that will firmly capture you in its grip from the first page to the very last.
The author’s choice to write “97” from both Jane and William’s points of view and that of the Warlochs adds only to the excitement and the endless postulations on how both worlds are going to fuse together in the end. V.L. Holt has created a world that is seamless and unpredictable and has the perfect buildup for a sequel.
I loved this book. In fact, so captivated was I by this GREAT story, I found myself sneak reading it everywhere I went! I was simply unable to put it down. And now, I’m a little sad that I have finished it and am reluctant to leave all of its characters behind. I am eager to read the next book, and I will be looking forward to reading more of V. L. Holt’s fabulous writing in the future.
The author’s choice to write “97” from both Jane and William’s points of view and that of the Warlochs adds only to the excitement and the endless postulations on how both worlds are going to fuse together in the end. V.L. Holt has created a world that is seamless and unpredictable and has the perfect buildup for a sequel.
I loved this book. In fact, so captivated was I by this GREAT story, I found myself sneak reading it everywhere I went! I was simply unable to put it down. And now, I’m a little sad that I have finished it and am reluctant to leave all of its characters behind. I am eager to read the next book, and I will be looking forward to reading more of V. L. Holt’s fabulous writing in the future.
January 10, 2014
I was excited to get the book as a friend wrote it and have to say ASTOUNDED that someone I know wrote such a GREAT book. I was immediately drawn into it and actually had to put it down so I would not finish it so quickly. I wanted to savor it. I am truly looking forward to the next book so I can see what happens to William and Jane. It is a good read for almost any age...bad language is not an issue but there is some adult themes in it though they are not in any way racy or smutty. Jane is your normal teenager dealing with trying to fit in and make things better for herself and William moves in down the street..but he is not a normal teenager. He is a warrior and finds he really likes Jane and wants to protect her from the Lochspawn that has followed him. The book ended in such a way that you can see so many possibilities for the next books. I could see the people/action in the book so well. I had a great time spent with William and Jane! DEFINITELY worth the read!
September 9, 2015
Wow!
I guess that sums up well enough how I feel about the book but I coudn't just stop there, right? So first of all, I'd like to say I commend the author for a job well done. While I was in the middle of reading the book I keep thinking to myself how could this author come up with such a story?
This is I think a YA fantasy. What really hooked me in was the way the author bring forth the past and present and the fantasy bit into the reality bit and blend them well together. Usually, stories that jump on and off into different time frames turn me off but not this one. I like how the author did the jumping into the past at exactly every other chapter and that the past is written in exactly one page. The page count hardly matters but my obsessive compulsive brain seemed to adapt well into the story because it was written the way it was. Plus the difference in the fonts made it easy for me to know where exactly I am standing. In fact every time it goes back to the past through Zarastrids point of view, I feel like I'm whooshing into that time myself... you know that thing that happens to people in movies when they go back in time. It gave me that kind of feeling. Needless to say, I really had a hard time putting the book down.
There isn't much yet going on between the main characters Jane and William. I feel like their story is just starting when the book ends. Considering that they are still young, I can't say I'm in a hurry at that part of the book. I really would rather they get to know each other better and grow more as individuals before anything more happens between them. The background of this characters are well thought of and there's still room to be surprised to who or what they are in the upcoming book which makes me excited to read the next one and uncover whaterever that is.
I'm hoping to know more about the other characters in the book like the mom (who seem pretty awesome) and the One True Friend Crady which at times makes my brow raise but seem to be really dependable too and I think the name was Gordon (though I'm not sure) and his sister which I feel would play a more vital role in the next book.
I'm a bit confuse about Zarastrid and Zeko. I'm not sure which of them is the real villain to the story. I do favor one more than the other but for now, I'm keeping that to myself and see if I'll be surprise to how they turn out to be.
Another thing that I noticed in this book that made an impact to me was the way the dialogues were worded. I love that they speak accordingly. Sometimes, I think authors get their head too much into the story that they forget to tone and characters right. Crady and Jane sounds like the teenage that they are and when it's on the other time frame everything sounds so ancient I do feel the time difference like I'm in there.
At last, there is one tinie tiny detail that got me feeling off. I guess it's not the author's fault at all, but every time the word 'babe' was used in the book, my mind would suddenly imagine that pinky little piggies from the movie. I blame it on the movie really. But that little bit always got me sidetracked every time it comes up.
Other than that, I really enjoyed reading 97. It's complete with the drama, suspense and thrill with a history that is its own and a story that will leave you hanging for more. Yup! That cliff hanger at the end served it's purpose really well.
I guess that sums up well enough how I feel about the book but I coudn't just stop there, right? So first of all, I'd like to say I commend the author for a job well done. While I was in the middle of reading the book I keep thinking to myself how could this author come up with such a story?
This is I think a YA fantasy. What really hooked me in was the way the author bring forth the past and present and the fantasy bit into the reality bit and blend them well together. Usually, stories that jump on and off into different time frames turn me off but not this one. I like how the author did the jumping into the past at exactly every other chapter and that the past is written in exactly one page. The page count hardly matters but my obsessive compulsive brain seemed to adapt well into the story because it was written the way it was. Plus the difference in the fonts made it easy for me to know where exactly I am standing. In fact every time it goes back to the past through Zarastrids point of view, I feel like I'm whooshing into that time myself... you know that thing that happens to people in movies when they go back in time. It gave me that kind of feeling. Needless to say, I really had a hard time putting the book down.
There isn't much yet going on between the main characters Jane and William. I feel like their story is just starting when the book ends. Considering that they are still young, I can't say I'm in a hurry at that part of the book. I really would rather they get to know each other better and grow more as individuals before anything more happens between them. The background of this characters are well thought of and there's still room to be surprised to who or what they are in the upcoming book which makes me excited to read the next one and uncover whaterever that is.
I'm hoping to know more about the other characters in the book like the mom (who seem pretty awesome) and the One True Friend Crady which at times makes my brow raise but seem to be really dependable too and I think the name was Gordon (though I'm not sure) and his sister which I feel would play a more vital role in the next book.
I'm a bit confuse about Zarastrid and Zeko. I'm not sure which of them is the real villain to the story. I do favor one more than the other but for now, I'm keeping that to myself and see if I'll be surprise to how they turn out to be.
Another thing that I noticed in this book that made an impact to me was the way the dialogues were worded. I love that they speak accordingly. Sometimes, I think authors get their head too much into the story that they forget to tone and characters right. Crady and Jane sounds like the teenage that they are and when it's on the other time frame everything sounds so ancient I do feel the time difference like I'm in there.
At last, there is one tinie tiny detail that got me feeling off. I guess it's not the author's fault at all, but every time the word 'babe' was used in the book, my mind would suddenly imagine that pinky little piggies from the movie. I blame it on the movie really. But that little bit always got me sidetracked every time it comes up.
Other than that, I really enjoyed reading 97. It's complete with the drama, suspense and thrill with a history that is its own and a story that will leave you hanging for more. Yup! That cliff hanger at the end served it's purpose really well.
May 17, 2014
What a great story. When I first started the book I was a little confused. The story telling of both time lines had me wondering what story I was actually reading. I trusted that Holt had a reason for telling the story this way. It didn't take me long to get the a-ha moment. I understood what was going on. I loved being able to learn about the back story this way. It was so interesting, at times I tried to read the present story fast to get back to the flashback. In no way does that mean I didn't enjoy the present story. The chapter about Toledo was so exciting. It made me wish there was a whole book about just the son and father's life on the run.
I was curious about the attraction William had to Jane. He had no explanation for it, but just had to be close to her and learn more about her. Once the two time lines begin to catch up to each other things begin to come into focus. I assumed that Jane had to have something to do with William's past, but hadn't guessed the way they were connected. I appreciated the point of view changes. Learning why the character did what they did and how they felt about the situations they were in. I like understanding why something is playing out a certain way and the change of view helps me do that.
The list of mom-ism's that Jane collects throughout the story helped me to connect with her. It just reminded me of myself and I'm sure many readers will be able to connect with those sayings that your mom always have on hand.
When William says "I have lived all my lives in order to find you." I just melted and he became my new BBF! The one thing that seemed out of place was Crady's father. I don't know of any father especially a sheriff going to tell his daughter how a hot guy just moved in and how he was Tall Dark and Handsome. I can see a father saying someone new moved in and she better stay the heck away from him, but maybe that's just me. It did make me laugh though thinking about a father wanting to know if he was correct in his assessment of William's hotness. Overall I was sad to see it end! I can't wait to read the next part of the story. If you love Sci-Fi like I do you are going to love this one!!!
I was curious about the attraction William had to Jane. He had no explanation for it, but just had to be close to her and learn more about her. Once the two time lines begin to catch up to each other things begin to come into focus. I assumed that Jane had to have something to do with William's past, but hadn't guessed the way they were connected. I appreciated the point of view changes. Learning why the character did what they did and how they felt about the situations they were in. I like understanding why something is playing out a certain way and the change of view helps me do that.
The list of mom-ism's that Jane collects throughout the story helped me to connect with her. It just reminded me of myself and I'm sure many readers will be able to connect with those sayings that your mom always have on hand.
When William says "I have lived all my lives in order to find you." I just melted and he became my new BBF! The one thing that seemed out of place was Crady's father. I don't know of any father especially a sheriff going to tell his daughter how a hot guy just moved in and how he was Tall Dark and Handsome. I can see a father saying someone new moved in and she better stay the heck away from him, but maybe that's just me. It did make me laugh though thinking about a father wanting to know if he was correct in his assessment of William's hotness. Overall I was sad to see it end! I can't wait to read the next part of the story. If you love Sci-Fi like I do you are going to love this one!!!
September 15, 2014
Actual rating 4.5 stars
*I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The concept and lore surrounding this story was very cool and in my experience very fresh and new and I really enjoyed it, but I must confess I did have one complaint and that was the romance , I don't really care for insta-love I prefer to watch a relationship grow and although it could be argued this was not insta love I think it was close enough and I was also bothered by the up and down when Jane became angry with William quickly, oh and also the blushing...okay so that was a few things but they were small for me because they did have sweet moments together and the story being told around them is so captivating and cool that I can see past it to enjoy the background and the growth.
I loved how the story was told from a few different points of view, we got Jane's, William's and even the evil Warlochs, it gave the story a well rounded quality that I really enjoyed. I think this is a wonderful start to what I think will be a great series, and with a cliff hanger like that I am anxious for book two and very very excited to see where we go from here. I am most curious about the Marine and how the Warlochs will use him to their advantage, and I also am interested in what the unveiling of secrets will do the relationships in this book. This was an action packed and exciting read, thank you to the author for the joy of reading it.
Before I end this book I just have to mention Jane's list of "mom sayings" it was a cute little touch to the story that I Loved and for something so small it made a big impact on me :)
This and other reviews also posted on my blog:
http://stephsfunwithbooks.blogspot.ca/
*I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The concept and lore surrounding this story was very cool and in my experience very fresh and new and I really enjoyed it, but I must confess I did have one complaint and that was the romance , I don't really care for insta-love I prefer to watch a relationship grow and although it could be argued this was not insta love I think it was close enough and I was also bothered by the up and down when Jane became angry with William quickly, oh and also the blushing...okay so that was a few things but they were small for me because they did have sweet moments together and the story being told around them is so captivating and cool that I can see past it to enjoy the background and the growth.
I loved how the story was told from a few different points of view, we got Jane's, William's and even the evil Warlochs, it gave the story a well rounded quality that I really enjoyed. I think this is a wonderful start to what I think will be a great series, and with a cliff hanger like that I am anxious for book two and very very excited to see where we go from here. I am most curious about the Marine and how the Warlochs will use him to their advantage, and I also am interested in what the unveiling of secrets will do the relationships in this book. This was an action packed and exciting read, thank you to the author for the joy of reading it.
Before I end this book I just have to mention Jane's list of "mom sayings" it was a cute little touch to the story that I Loved and for something so small it made a big impact on me :)
This and other reviews also posted on my blog:
http://stephsfunwithbooks.blogspot.ca/
January 11, 2014
Fabulous story concept. The author alternates between the story of the Warlochs and William and Jane's story as she weaves her tale. Early in the story I found myself struggling to read faster because I wanted to know what was going to happen, definitely pulled in quick. Jane and William are easy to like and I was rooting for them. I truly loved Crady's personality; she has a ton of it.
Generally the book was clean. There were a few swear words and some adult themes. The Warlochs use women for a "physical release" and a "pleasant diversion." I tend to be super sensitive to the subject and most people wouldn't give it much thought because it was dealt with very smoothly. However, that was the reason I knock the book down to four stars.
Jane seemed a little casual about the dangers associated with the Lochspawn, but I suppose the guilt from what happened because of her casual attitude/actions could add an interesting curve to book two. I found it curious that Jane left a pink trail wherever she'd been, a trail that only William could see. It makes me wonder if perhaps plain Jane isn't so plain. Looking forward to continuing the story with book two.
Generally the book was clean. There were a few swear words and some adult themes. The Warlochs use women for a "physical release" and a "pleasant diversion." I tend to be super sensitive to the subject and most people wouldn't give it much thought because it was dealt with very smoothly. However, that was the reason I knock the book down to four stars.
Jane seemed a little casual about the dangers associated with the Lochspawn, but I suppose the guilt from what happened because of her casual attitude/actions could add an interesting curve to book two. I found it curious that Jane left a pink trail wherever she'd been, a trail that only William could see. It makes me wonder if perhaps plain Jane isn't so plain. Looking forward to continuing the story with book two.
August 3, 2014
The book's description got me interested because it seemed similar to a story idea that I had. I read it and it's different enough, thankfully. :))
There's something about high school romances that make me cringe... But I read them anyway. Jane is a girl-next-door type (should I say, literally?) paired with the strong and silent William. A classic recipe I guess, and that works.
I really like how the author provided the backstory for the villains. At first the reader might be confused at how they come in the present-day setting, but it eventually becomes clear.
I suppose I did not like how it ended as it is the kind of cliffhanger that I don't want for the first installment in a series. But it would definitely leave the reader wanting to read the next book, so that's good for the author I guess!
Yes, I do want to read the next book soon. And my favorite character is Zarastrid. :)
There's something about high school romances that make me cringe... But I read them anyway. Jane is a girl-next-door type (should I say, literally?) paired with the strong and silent William. A classic recipe I guess, and that works.
I really like how the author provided the backstory for the villains. At first the reader might be confused at how they come in the present-day setting, but it eventually becomes clear.
I suppose I did not like how it ended as it is the kind of cliffhanger that I don't want for the first installment in a series. But it would definitely leave the reader wanting to read the next book, so that's good for the author I guess!
Yes, I do want to read the next book soon. And my favorite character is Zarastrid. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2016
Gah! I devoured this book. I could not put it down. It is so well written and just! I can't with the words right now!!! Seriously. I loved this so much. I love the back and forth between the history of the creation of the Warriors and Jane and William's present day life. I love Jane's parts the most. She's entertaining and caring and I love her so much.
My only real complaint is the way the POV switches toward the end. It was a little confusing trying to keep up with where we were and who we were with. It was labeled in some spots, and those were a fine transition, but at some point they were no longer labeled and it took me a minute to figure out where we were and what was going on.
That's literally my only complaint. That and that it ended! But, I have 98 downloaded and am ready to jump into it now. Seriously. Such a great book!
My only real complaint is the way the POV switches toward the end. It was a little confusing trying to keep up with where we were and who we were with. It was labeled in some spots, and those were a fine transition, but at some point they were no longer labeled and it took me a minute to figure out where we were and what was going on.
That's literally my only complaint. That and that it ended! But, I have 98 downloaded and am ready to jump into it now. Seriously. Such a great book!
March 3, 2015
A totally new fairy tale both modern and olden times! I love this book and have 98 sitting right next to me just waiting for me to open and read it! Amazing work of imagination! I love the way the author jumps back and forth and into different perspectives! It fill in just enough of the details to make you wonder what it all boils down to!
May 4, 2014
I really liked this book. The only thing I didn't like was how it ended. It totally leaves you hanging. Terrible cliff hanger. So if that annoys you, then it would be a good idea to wait until more books are written.
September 22, 2014
So good, I'm sad it is over. Really good YA with some fantastic characters. The dual stories threw me until they all caught up with each other. The end is heart-stopping and I can't wait for the next installment.
February 26, 2014
Great read, I could not put the book down!
April 19, 2014
Teen paranormal.
July 5, 2014
a real page turner! I look forward to the sequel.
June 8, 2018
LOVED IT!!!
This book is amazing! I could not put it down! Amazing writing, pure genius and unique reading experience! Loved it!
This book is amazing! I could not put it down! Amazing writing, pure genius and unique reading experience! Loved it!
January 20, 2016
I knew I would like this book as soon as I read the first page. The MC is a bit of a smart ass. And I like it. It was a decent length as well, a little over 300 pages. I don't even know how to classify this book. Is it YA? Paranormal romance? Both?
Okay well, all I can really tell you is this book is classified as....GOOD! I found the story to be highly original and have already told several people about it. It has a bit of a cliffhanger, well actually, I don't even know if you could call it a cliffhanger. It was more of a shallow drop, the kind that you could survive from. No injuries.
Jane is an average girl really, she reminds me a little of me when I was a teenager. Never really had a steady boyfriend. She has one best girlfriend and everything was completely normal. She is no swoony loony either. Which I gotta say was a refreshing change from the books I have read recently.
Jane: I found her to be down to earth, practical and a little fiesty. She doesn't lose it when the crazy hits the fan either. She is collected and cool.
William: He really is tall, dark and handsome. I found him to be quiet, unassuming, and he doesn't pee around her to mark his territory either.
Favorite quotes: She smiled, and if her touch was like the heat of the sun, then her smile was like the moon breaking through fog.
His intention was as clear as the sky after rain. He intended for me to feel that he wasn't complete without me, that his life had no meaning without me in it, that us together, was more complete and more reality than us apart...he kissed the corner of my mouth softly, and the other corner, just as softly.
Though we die and die again, Yet we'll live thru the 99th. We were made for fodder To fight another's battle. Now we fight for none but one The One life lived, for mother, wife and son. A Life lived at another's call is half-lived or not at all. Better to live only, For self, family, freedom. A single life well-lived is Worth more than 98 only half-lived.
Okay well, all I can really tell you is this book is classified as....GOOD! I found the story to be highly original and have already told several people about it. It has a bit of a cliffhanger, well actually, I don't even know if you could call it a cliffhanger. It was more of a shallow drop, the kind that you could survive from. No injuries.
Jane is an average girl really, she reminds me a little of me when I was a teenager. Never really had a steady boyfriend. She has one best girlfriend and everything was completely normal. She is no swoony loony either. Which I gotta say was a refreshing change from the books I have read recently.
Jane: I found her to be down to earth, practical and a little fiesty. She doesn't lose it when the crazy hits the fan either. She is collected and cool.
William: He really is tall, dark and handsome. I found him to be quiet, unassuming, and he doesn't pee around her to mark his territory either.
Favorite quotes: She smiled, and if her touch was like the heat of the sun, then her smile was like the moon breaking through fog.
His intention was as clear as the sky after rain. He intended for me to feel that he wasn't complete without me, that his life had no meaning without me in it, that us together, was more complete and more reality than us apart...he kissed the corner of my mouth softly, and the other corner, just as softly.
Though we die and die again, Yet we'll live thru the 99th. We were made for fodder To fight another's battle. Now we fight for none but one The One life lived, for mother, wife and son. A Life lived at another's call is half-lived or not at all. Better to live only, For self, family, freedom. A single life well-lived is Worth more than 98 only half-lived.
February 25, 2015
I loved the way this story unfolded… the telling of the current day story with Jane and William, and the history of the story with the Warlochs creating and beginning the race of warriors. I especially liked how it all came slowly together. No questions were fully answered outright… they were slowly drawn out. It left a lot of intrigue and really pulled me into the story as Jane learned what was going on.
The collision of real world high school situations and fantasy made for a fun read. I liked that Jane didn’t outright believe everything that was going on. It seemed to make the story much more real simply because she didn’t just accept everything. She had moments of thinking she must be totally crazy (because wouldn’t the average real high school senior girl think she was losing her mind before saying “oh yeah, demons and warriors and magic are totally real.”?). The cute boy made her blush with his attention. When something seemed wrong or questionable… she actually googled and asked questions.
At the same time… the fantasy and magic is front and center just as often as the average teen crush romance. I was impressed by how well V.L. Holt was able to write such a real world and such a magical world… and keep them separate while also weaving them together. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series to find out how William and Jane’s story continues… and what happens next with Zarastrid and the other warlochs.
While I enjoyed the modern day story… I really loved the history of the story. I loved the subtle changes in writing style that came with switching time frames. The struggle of Zarastrid and the other warlochs being these cursed beings with no hearts… but being faced with caring for women (or 1 woman in particular) that were studied and chosen for being superior made the character development interesting and complicated. I’m hoping we learn more about the details of the history in the next book.
Oh…. and 97. Very clever title.
The collision of real world high school situations and fantasy made for a fun read. I liked that Jane didn’t outright believe everything that was going on. It seemed to make the story much more real simply because she didn’t just accept everything. She had moments of thinking she must be totally crazy (because wouldn’t the average real high school senior girl think she was losing her mind before saying “oh yeah, demons and warriors and magic are totally real.”?). The cute boy made her blush with his attention. When something seemed wrong or questionable… she actually googled and asked questions.
At the same time… the fantasy and magic is front and center just as often as the average teen crush romance. I was impressed by how well V.L. Holt was able to write such a real world and such a magical world… and keep them separate while also weaving them together. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series to find out how William and Jane’s story continues… and what happens next with Zarastrid and the other warlochs.
While I enjoyed the modern day story… I really loved the history of the story. I loved the subtle changes in writing style that came with switching time frames. The struggle of Zarastrid and the other warlochs being these cursed beings with no hearts… but being faced with caring for women (or 1 woman in particular) that were studied and chosen for being superior made the character development interesting and complicated. I’m hoping we learn more about the details of the history in the next book.
Oh…. and 97. Very clever title.
May 28, 2015
This is one of those rare books that has the perfect pacing. It's a read that quickly pulls you in. The storytelling is superb, the characters are strong and well-developed, the humor is timely and full of wit, the writing is well-crafted with language and flow that are gifts to the reader.
I was thoroughly entertained, while also learning so much from Holt's writing style. I loved this novel!
Some of my favorite parts were the wonderful humor, the clever mom-isms, Crady and Jane's endearing friendship, and the excellent chemistry between William and Jane. Where some writers would lead the love story right into sappiness, Holt veers the reader at just the right time, leaving us wanting more.
But my ultimate favorite part of the novel is the exceptional placement of POV between the Warloch stories about Agnes. What Holt did was remarkable. Rather than tell the readers what to think about Zarastrid and Zeko, she lets the reader go through this wonderful journey to discover these magnificently developed characters for themselves. I LOVED how well this was crafted. It was brilliant! I could read this book again just to better observe and understand the psychology around the experience Holt gave me with these characters.
I also applaud Holt on how she shared evil. The book was still very clean and suitable for it's audience, yet we understood the bad things that had happened. It was shown to us, not told to us, given to us in fitting amounts, but not saturating us with evil and awfulness. To find that balance is very tricky, yet Holt did this with extreme grace.
My one dislike: I didn't like the ending. But that is cause the ending isn't an ending! Rather it's a nice offering from the author to let the reader take a break. A chance to stretch our legs, grab a meal, some sleep, a quick return to reality, before diving into 98 and the rest of this fantastic story.
Very well done! I can't wait to read more from Holt!
November 16, 2014
The warriors had 99 lives to win the world for the warlochs but they only wanted their freedom
I liked this book. the author is an exceptional writer. I think she will definitely improve as she continues. I think she has a great support system as the editing is great. this is a book for young adults and older as well as those who love the idea of magic. this one is a little different in that there's not that much in your face hocus pocus but more implied magic with creating beings and or getting rid of them.
the main premise of the book surrounds 5 warlochs that made a pact together to stay true to the pact always and to do everything in their power to control governments worldwide. they won't be happy until every human knows their ultimate power and kneels on bended knee before them. their plan is to create superhuman warriors, infused with special abilities but most importantly one life to give is not enough for these warlochs; no, they give them 99 lives so they can continue to fight for them. the only problem? the warriors want their freedom. can they gain it? if they do, what will be the consequences?
a father and son roll into a small town. the boy-William is around 17 and hot. He meets Jane at school and suddenly he's showing up in her classes. what gives?... not that she's complaining but very weird and scaredy things keep happening. turns out William is a descendant of one those warriors and their are very bad, very determined monsters hunting he and his father, actually, any descendant. the good news....William and Jane like each other, the bad news...William is on life #97! but he's determined to live for Jane but will he'll give his 99th life if he has to, to save her.
I liked this book. the author is an exceptional writer. I think she will definitely improve as she continues. I think she has a great support system as the editing is great. this is a book for young adults and older as well as those who love the idea of magic. this one is a little different in that there's not that much in your face hocus pocus but more implied magic with creating beings and or getting rid of them.
the main premise of the book surrounds 5 warlochs that made a pact together to stay true to the pact always and to do everything in their power to control governments worldwide. they won't be happy until every human knows their ultimate power and kneels on bended knee before them. their plan is to create superhuman warriors, infused with special abilities but most importantly one life to give is not enough for these warlochs; no, they give them 99 lives so they can continue to fight for them. the only problem? the warriors want their freedom. can they gain it? if they do, what will be the consequences?
a father and son roll into a small town. the boy-William is around 17 and hot. He meets Jane at school and suddenly he's showing up in her classes. what gives?... not that she's complaining but very weird and scaredy things keep happening. turns out William is a descendant of one those warriors and their are very bad, very determined monsters hunting he and his father, actually, any descendant. the good news....William and Jane like each other, the bad news...William is on life #97! but he's determined to live for Jane but will he'll give his 99th life if he has to, to save her.
February 20, 2015
A unique and creatively written novel told in an astoundingly genius perspective. Holt has successfully taken the beliefs of the past and thrust them into the traditions of the present, creating a heart-warming love story with the excitement of the unknown combining inexplicable attraction that comes when soul mates finally meet. Warloch’s and gargoyles are creepy. Jane is simply rare in every aspect. William is strikingly handsome and a warrior in the truest sense. I was impressed with how well these very diverse characters were able to come together in a gratifying and substantially complete tale.
It is rare to find authors who are able to take various points of view and uniting them into a story that is easy to follow. Holt did an exemplary job at putting together two different storylines into one book while keeping the readers excited about both from start to finish. Readers will be torn about which point of view is favored while finding characters from both the imaginative world and the real that they can connect with. Holt has done well in her debut novel and I am ecstatic to find out how this story progresses!
~The Book Stalker Reviewed
It is rare to find authors who are able to take various points of view and uniting them into a story that is easy to follow. Holt did an exemplary job at putting together two different storylines into one book while keeping the readers excited about both from start to finish. Readers will be torn about which point of view is favored while finding characters from both the imaginative world and the real that they can connect with. Holt has done well in her debut novel and I am ecstatic to find out how this story progresses!
~The Book Stalker Reviewed
February 25, 2015
I love the mixture of fantasy and real world! Jane is fully immersed in regular every day life until the new boy comes to town. At first William seems like the dream man. He is totally adorable, and smart to boot. Jane is an average looking, shy girl. Why does the new stud want to be her boyfriend?
Enter in a mystical Warloch. The story lines are running parallel, with one in the distant past quickly catching up to modern times. How will Jane come to terms with the Warloch’s world? Will she even realize that the worlds are intermingling?
Great story, and I can’t wait to see the next installment. What will happen with Jane and William (will anything happen…)?
Enter in a mystical Warloch. The story lines are running parallel, with one in the distant past quickly catching up to modern times. How will Jane come to terms with the Warloch’s world? Will she even realize that the worlds are intermingling?
Great story, and I can’t wait to see the next installment. What will happen with Jane and William (will anything happen…)?
September 2, 2017
Arrgh..Yet another cliffhanger
¿¿Thank you to my neighbor Laura for reading this book and talking it up and then informed me that we all have a common bond in our church, so I thought I better gives this author a try. Love it,the only thing is their Lochspawn's names, where they drawn from a hat..LOL. Hard to keep who's who. B
¿¿Thank you to my neighbor Laura for reading this book and talking it up and then informed me that we all have a common bond in our church, so I thought I better gives this author a try. Love it,the only thing is their Lochspawn's names, where they drawn from a hat..LOL. Hard to keep who's who. B
September 2, 2017
I loved this book, fast running, great characters and couldn't wait to get the next book to know more about the characters and their lives
March 5, 2015
FTC Disclosure: I received this book free from Goodreads hoping I would review it.
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