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Discovering Daniel
When a shocking memory surfaces that Ava McCoy can’t understand, she looks for answers. With her parents and her Uncle Sam trying to convince her that she is only chasing dreams, she is determined to prove that they are wrong, the vision too vivid in her mind to be anything but truth.
When her investigation reveals another world so shocking and yet so familiar, it feels as if the pieces of the puzzle are starting to come together – with only one question left unanswered. Who is Daniel? The very memory of him draws her to the sea. Then, the ocean brings her the answer she’s seeking. Daniel himself.
United, Daniel and Ava must find out why everyone wanted to keep them apart – and who is now trying their best to do it again. They must find the answers – before they succeed. Before Ava loses Daniel all over again – this time, forever.
When her investigation reveals another world so shocking and yet so familiar, it feels as if the pieces of the puzzle are starting to come together – with only one question left unanswered. Who is Daniel? The very memory of him draws her to the sea. Then, the ocean brings her the answer she’s seeking. Daniel himself.
United, Daniel and Ava must find out why everyone wanted to keep them apart – and who is now trying their best to do it again. They must find the answers – before they succeed. Before Ava loses Daniel all over again – this time, forever.
- GenresFantasyParanormal
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2014
1 person is currently reading
245 people want to read
About the author
Nadine Christian
6 books167 followersNadine Christian lives on Pitcairn Island, a small isle in the middle of the South Pacific, with her five children, four goats, two cats and thirty chickens. With its rich maritime history, Pitcairn’s romantic past comes alive in her novels, capturing the taste of life on an isolated tropical island, miles from the rush and bustle of normal city life.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 14, 2015
This book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews
(-Guest Reviewer Program)
4.5 Stars.
Lets start with a little truth. Me and YA novels don’t seem to be having very good relationship lately. It’s like I’m cursed, and the good finds, that I use to be able to fine, all go into to hiding as soon as I walk into a book store, or Library.
I found a marvellous one last month, and then nothing. (Demons at Deadnight<, amazing book, you can see my review Here) That is until Discovering Denial, discovered me… see what I did there.. a haha..ha.
But in all seriousness, this book took me by surprise, a very pleasant surprise. I wasn’t even going to request it until my best friend, who is also a guess reviewer (Jill), started reading it. She didn’t tell me anything about the book, she’s not into spoilers, it was just the way she reacted to some scenes, (loudly) caught my interest. I had to know what prompted her to react like that.
The day she finished the book I request it, and fell into some pretty good feels for it. The writing tone is calming, and moving. Even when there was,danger, it felt more like urgency then OMG! Which isn’t a bad thing.
I like how Ava and Daniel took the time to get to know one another. Yes the feelings where there form the start but they didn’t jump in, so much as theylearned to understand what it was they where actually feeling. I hate how some YA have this instance love thing going. I ranted about this before,( Click Here to see) and as someone who has loved and lost knows, most times your first love will always be lost. For those of you that are still with that first love, I bow to you. XD
This book is heavy on family and connections. I’m close with my family, in a weird way, in the short run we’re nuts and it works. Ava and her family are super close, and she’s a daddy’s girl. This doesn’t change as she grows up, which is nice. I also really like how she still has both parents, and that there wasn’t what you would call a sob story; very refreshing. (YA novels tend to have a broken protagonist half the time, its annoying) Ava is happy, strong, heard headed, and she doesn't let her growing feelings for Daniel change that.
The ending did throw me for a WFT loop. Not in a bad way, but in a, I wanted there to be more. If this novel is going to be a stand alone, then there should have been a epilogue or just something after the fact. The ending was left too open and very unfulfilling in the feels department. (In truth it felt rushed.) I wanted that extra scene, that for-sure closure.
To conclude, this book is a hidden gem , it will pull you in, and make you believe in the world that is Ava and Denial.
Until we chat again
Happy reading and,
Don’t stop being amazing,
Emily :)
4.5 Stars.
Lets start with a little truth. Me and YA novels don’t seem to be having very good relationship lately. It’s like I’m cursed, and the good finds, that I use to be able to fine, all go into to hiding as soon as I walk into a book store, or Library.
I found a marvellous one last month, and then nothing. (Demons at Deadnight<, amazing book, you can see my review Here) That is until Discovering Denial, discovered me… see what I did there.. a haha..ha.
But in all seriousness, this book took me by surprise, a very pleasant surprise. I wasn’t even going to request it until my best friend, who is also a guess reviewer (Jill), started reading it. She didn’t tell me anything about the book, she’s not into spoilers, it was just the way she reacted to some scenes, (loudly) caught my interest. I had to know what prompted her to react like that.
The day she finished the book I request it, and fell into some pretty good feels for it. The writing tone is calming, and moving. Even when there was,danger, it felt more like urgency then OMG! Which isn’t a bad thing.
I like how Ava and Daniel took the time to get to know one another. Yes the feelings where there form the start but they didn’t jump in, so much as theylearned to understand what it was they where actually feeling. I hate how some YA have this instance love thing going. I ranted about this before,( Click Here to see) and as someone who has loved and lost knows, most times your first love will always be lost. For those of you that are still with that first love, I bow to you. XD
This book is heavy on family and connections. I’m close with my family, in a weird way, in the short run we’re nuts and it works. Ava and her family are super close, and she’s a daddy’s girl. This doesn’t change as she grows up, which is nice. I also really like how she still has both parents, and that there wasn’t what you would call a sob story; very refreshing. (YA novels tend to have a broken protagonist half the time, its annoying) Ava is happy, strong, heard headed, and she doesn't let her growing feelings for Daniel change that.
The ending did throw me for a WFT loop. Not in a bad way, but in a, I wanted there to be more. If this novel is going to be a stand alone, then there should have been a epilogue or just something after the fact. The ending was left too open and very unfulfilling in the feels department. (In truth it felt rushed.) I wanted that extra scene, that for-sure closure.
To conclude, this book is a hidden gem , it will pull you in, and make you believe in the world that is Ava and Denial.
Until we chat again
Happy reading and,
Don’t stop being amazing,
Emily :)
December 20, 2024
Finished reading: August 25th 2014
"Her father was wrong. Everything had changed. Her eyes had been opened. Even looking out to sea from her seat on the boat, it seemed clearer."
*** A copy of this book was kindly given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!(Guest Reviewer Program) ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
June 26, 2014
Nine years ago, Ava and her father suffered a traumatic accident while fishing on the boat in Pitcairn waters. Bits and pieces of this incident come back to her, but could her memories be real? Or did she dream them?
Ava is unable to leave well enough alone... So when a strong memory that feels like a dream surfaces, she presses her Uncle Sam for answers. He obliges her, and demands she keeps this newly found knowledge a secret.
"Everything's changed. I thought I knew my island and my world... but really I didn't know the half of it."
The beautiful ocean, dangerous and bountiful has always called out to Ava. She knows she shouldn't search for more answers, and that she should let it go, but she needs to prove to herself that the memory is real. What she finds is beyond her comprehension... Her memories of a boy named Daniel who saved her and her father, are 100% real, but now how is she to get to know him when her Uncle forbade it?
The impossibility of their situation weighs on her. The star-crossed lovers shouldn't mix, as they are from different worlds, and yet they can't stay away from each other. You see, Daniel is a Mer, and to be together one of them has to make the ultimate sacrifice... before it is too late.
I thoroughly enjoyed Discovering Daniel, by Author Nadine Christian. Fantastic world building, writing, and an excellent plot. The imagery was described so perfectly, (from the colors and cut of the coral, to the blue gem that Daniel gives Ava which shone rainbow prisms across his face), that I felt like I was right alongside Ava and Daniel. This is a book that you can really escape into.
Discovering Daniel takes you through the fantastical underwater world known as Zeno, home to the Mer. This was such a uniquely creative story, and unlike any other fantasy book that I have read. If you are looking to read something a little different, then this book will not disappoint!
Discovering Daniel is a young adult, urban fantasy that can be enjoyed by teenagers and adults alike. Nadine Christian's usual writing style of mixing romance, humor and risk is evident in this book, so if you enjoy her other romance books, I'm certain you will enjoy Discovering Daniel.
I loved Ava and Daniel as a couple, and enjoyed watching their young romance blossom. They had me rooting for them throughout! Their dangerously risky romance and sneaking around made me eager to turn the page and continue reading!
*Warning Spoiler*
I may have misunderstood, but I was under the impression that Aunt Kelly was unaware that her husband, Uncle Sam was Mer, per George Christian. So when Aunt Kelly brought it up late at night when she and Ava were unable to sleep, I was surprised that Ava didn't have a reaction.
Also, I was really looking forward to learning what Ava would decide, so I was a bit disappointed that we never learned. :(
*End of Spoiler Warning*
All in all, I am giving Discovering Daniel, by Nadine Christian 5 very well deserved bright red scales! ;) Read Discovering Daniel if you would like to learn if Daniel tastes like fish when Ava kisses him!!! :)
***I received an E-copy of Discovering Daniel, from the Author in exchange for a thoughtful, fair, and honest book review.
Ava is unable to leave well enough alone... So when a strong memory that feels like a dream surfaces, she presses her Uncle Sam for answers. He obliges her, and demands she keeps this newly found knowledge a secret.
"Everything's changed. I thought I knew my island and my world... but really I didn't know the half of it."
The beautiful ocean, dangerous and bountiful has always called out to Ava. She knows she shouldn't search for more answers, and that she should let it go, but she needs to prove to herself that the memory is real. What she finds is beyond her comprehension... Her memories of a boy named Daniel who saved her and her father, are 100% real, but now how is she to get to know him when her Uncle forbade it?
The impossibility of their situation weighs on her. The star-crossed lovers shouldn't mix, as they are from different worlds, and yet they can't stay away from each other. You see, Daniel is a Mer, and to be together one of them has to make the ultimate sacrifice... before it is too late.
I thoroughly enjoyed Discovering Daniel, by Author Nadine Christian. Fantastic world building, writing, and an excellent plot. The imagery was described so perfectly, (from the colors and cut of the coral, to the blue gem that Daniel gives Ava which shone rainbow prisms across his face), that I felt like I was right alongside Ava and Daniel. This is a book that you can really escape into.
Discovering Daniel takes you through the fantastical underwater world known as Zeno, home to the Mer. This was such a uniquely creative story, and unlike any other fantasy book that I have read. If you are looking to read something a little different, then this book will not disappoint!
Discovering Daniel is a young adult, urban fantasy that can be enjoyed by teenagers and adults alike. Nadine Christian's usual writing style of mixing romance, humor and risk is evident in this book, so if you enjoy her other romance books, I'm certain you will enjoy Discovering Daniel.
I loved Ava and Daniel as a couple, and enjoyed watching their young romance blossom. They had me rooting for them throughout! Their dangerously risky romance and sneaking around made me eager to turn the page and continue reading!
*Warning Spoiler*
I may have misunderstood, but I was under the impression that Aunt Kelly was unaware that her husband, Uncle Sam was Mer, per George Christian. So when Aunt Kelly brought it up late at night when she and Ava were unable to sleep, I was surprised that Ava didn't have a reaction.
Also, I was really looking forward to learning what Ava would decide, so I was a bit disappointed that we never learned. :(
*End of Spoiler Warning*
All in all, I am giving Discovering Daniel, by Nadine Christian 5 very well deserved bright red scales! ;) Read Discovering Daniel if you would like to learn if Daniel tastes like fish when Ava kisses him!!! :)
***I received an E-copy of Discovering Daniel, from the Author in exchange for a thoughtful, fair, and honest book review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2014
I sat and read this throughout the day yesterday with every chance I got.
I've read Nadine Christian's book's before and loved them, so I always look forward to the next book she releases.
I was lucky to receive this as an ARC and devoured it right away.
Nadine Christian has a way with words, she can draw you into the story bit by bit and before you know it, you are living inside your head with the characters in the story.
Its a love story yes, but with a lot of twists and turns and unexpected [and I mean UNEXPECTED] revelation! When that came out, I thought, hmm, but then I was pulled back in again.
Just who is Daniel? What connection does he have to her?
How does her family know Daniel?
Can she find Daniel?
I have to tell you, I was pleasantly surprised in reading this book. Going from Nadine Christians other books I was expecting something along the same lines WRONG!!! but boy oh boy, she pulled this off!!!
Nadine Christian I have got to 'know' right from book one, I see her growing as an author, and this book shows me that she truly is an author, not just a writer who writes stories, but someone who is a storyteller. The difference is vast. Anyone can tell a story, but to tell a story and make it LIVE, make the reader believe it, feel it, understand it, read between the lines, and shut the book saying "now that, was a good book", to me, there is a vast huge difference, and Nadine Christian is one of them.
This is my HONEST and heartfelt review on DISCOVERING DANIEL
I've read Nadine Christian's book's before and loved them, so I always look forward to the next book she releases.
I was lucky to receive this as an ARC and devoured it right away.
Nadine Christian has a way with words, she can draw you into the story bit by bit and before you know it, you are living inside your head with the characters in the story.
Its a love story yes, but with a lot of twists and turns and unexpected [and I mean UNEXPECTED] revelation! When that came out, I thought, hmm, but then I was pulled back in again.
Just who is Daniel? What connection does he have to her?
How does her family know Daniel?
Can she find Daniel?
I have to tell you, I was pleasantly surprised in reading this book. Going from Nadine Christians other books I was expecting something along the same lines WRONG!!! but boy oh boy, she pulled this off!!!
Nadine Christian I have got to 'know' right from book one, I see her growing as an author, and this book shows me that she truly is an author, not just a writer who writes stories, but someone who is a storyteller. The difference is vast. Anyone can tell a story, but to tell a story and make it LIVE, make the reader believe it, feel it, understand it, read between the lines, and shut the book saying "now that, was a good book", to me, there is a vast huge difference, and Nadine Christian is one of them.
This is my HONEST and heartfelt review on DISCOVERING DANIEL
August 9, 2016
Mermale/Mermaid-Are they real??
This Young Adult book was written by my favorite author, Nadine Christian. I’m definitely not a Young Adult, but agreed to read and review it. When I saw it was fantasy, I thought, “Oh no, this is not my cup of tea.” Boy, was I ever surprised. It is so believably written that I am wondering if there really is a “Mer World.” This young lady of 17 years is in love with a Mermale, who saved her life when she was 9 years old. She had forgotten the event until her Uncle helped her remember 8 years later. The suspense and mystery surrounding her family is all intertwined in a decision she has to make on her 18th birthday. Of course, the beaches, coves and waters of the island are so well described. You can close your eyes and see the beauty in the Mer city of Zeno. However, all was not beauty below the sea. They also had a court system and punished Mers who broke their law. So many wonderful fantasies surround this island that I wonder if these beautiful creatures are off the shores and how many of the people who live on the island are Mers. You’ll have to read the book to know what I mean. You will not be disappointed.
This Young Adult book was written by my favorite author, Nadine Christian. I’m definitely not a Young Adult, but agreed to read and review it. When I saw it was fantasy, I thought, “Oh no, this is not my cup of tea.” Boy, was I ever surprised. It is so believably written that I am wondering if there really is a “Mer World.” This young lady of 17 years is in love with a Mermale, who saved her life when she was 9 years old. She had forgotten the event until her Uncle helped her remember 8 years later. The suspense and mystery surrounding her family is all intertwined in a decision she has to make on her 18th birthday. Of course, the beaches, coves and waters of the island are so well described. You can close your eyes and see the beauty in the Mer city of Zeno. However, all was not beauty below the sea. They also had a court system and punished Mers who broke their law. So many wonderful fantasies surround this island that I wonder if these beautiful creatures are off the shores and how many of the people who live on the island are Mers. You’ll have to read the book to know what I mean. You will not be disappointed.
September 20, 2014
***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***
This book was a nice, easy and quick read. There was enough supernatural aspect to enjoy it if you were looking for that but not so much as to make it over the top. The detail given by Christian to round out the story created the characters in a believable and living amongst us kind of light.
The hook of the star crossed lovers wasn’t exactly what had me hanging on through to the end. For me, the story of Ava and her family intrigued me more. The love of what a parent will do to protect their child. What a friend will do to help another. Loyalty, trust and love. It is all here and Christian made it heartfelt.
Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed the love story that is Ava and Daniel! But as I put this book down I felt more was needed. Maybe an epilogue flash forward to gather some closure on final decisions made by the characters would satisfy the lack of finality I feel when thinking about the story.
This book was a nice, easy and quick read. There was enough supernatural aspect to enjoy it if you were looking for that but not so much as to make it over the top. The detail given by Christian to round out the story created the characters in a believable and living amongst us kind of light.
The hook of the star crossed lovers wasn’t exactly what had me hanging on through to the end. For me, the story of Ava and her family intrigued me more. The love of what a parent will do to protect their child. What a friend will do to help another. Loyalty, trust and love. It is all here and Christian made it heartfelt.
Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed the love story that is Ava and Daniel! But as I put this book down I felt more was needed. Maybe an epilogue flash forward to gather some closure on final decisions made by the characters would satisfy the lack of finality I feel when thinking about the story.
July 16, 2014
I am in love with this story. Such a well written and interesting love story. As with Nadine's other books, I feel like I am on Pitcairn with the characters. Nadine paints a perfect picture of the island and her characters to make me feel like I'm part of it. I could not put the book down and was sad when I reached the end (I could have followed the characters forever)!!
August 12, 2014
"Discovering Daniel", with its exotic setting (a small island in the middle of the South Pacific), instantly transports the reader while captivating them with an exciting story rich with fantasy and sweet young love.
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
August 3, 2014
~4 1/2 Stars~
***I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Finding Daniel was the just the book I needed-something different. It held my attention and was filled with many twists and turns I wasn't expecting. It is more of a YA book than NA, but it is a perfect blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy.
Readers are introduced to the main character, Ava, when she is just a child. She and her father are fishing when she sees the face of a beautiful boy looking back at her from underwater. Shocked, surprised, and maybe a bit frightened, she falls overboard. This is when Ava and readers first get a glimpse of the magical world that exists under the sea that is filled with mermaids and mer-men. After being rescued by the strange boy and his father and safely returned to the boat to her father, her dad convinces her to forget what she saw. And, she does until she begins having visions of a beautiful boy she saw in the sea. She does some snooping, and one day Daniel appears to her in the flesh. Thus, begins the beautiful, magical love story that is Ava and Daniel. As their story unfolds, they get to know one another and feel a strong, magical connection. As their feelings continue to grow, dark secrets concerning both of their families surface. Can this young couple survive the truth when they discover it?
While the bulk of the book is about Ava and Daniel, there is a lot of mystery and dark family secrets. There were many twists, turns, and surprises that kept me wanting to read just one more chapter. One of my favorite aspects of the book is the author's descriptive writing style. The island of Pitcairn is beautiful; I now want to go see this special, magical place. Her description of the ocean is so vivid that it could be considered a main character in this tale as well. If you are looking for something a bit different, to escape the real world, and journey to a magical place, give this book a try. I am hoping there will be a continuation of Ava and Daniel's story as well as possible standalones involving other characters of the book.
***I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Finding Daniel was the just the book I needed-something different. It held my attention and was filled with many twists and turns I wasn't expecting. It is more of a YA book than NA, but it is a perfect blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy.
Readers are introduced to the main character, Ava, when she is just a child. She and her father are fishing when she sees the face of a beautiful boy looking back at her from underwater. Shocked, surprised, and maybe a bit frightened, she falls overboard. This is when Ava and readers first get a glimpse of the magical world that exists under the sea that is filled with mermaids and mer-men. After being rescued by the strange boy and his father and safely returned to the boat to her father, her dad convinces her to forget what she saw. And, she does until she begins having visions of a beautiful boy she saw in the sea. She does some snooping, and one day Daniel appears to her in the flesh. Thus, begins the beautiful, magical love story that is Ava and Daniel. As their story unfolds, they get to know one another and feel a strong, magical connection. As their feelings continue to grow, dark secrets concerning both of their families surface. Can this young couple survive the truth when they discover it?
While the bulk of the book is about Ava and Daniel, there is a lot of mystery and dark family secrets. There were many twists, turns, and surprises that kept me wanting to read just one more chapter. One of my favorite aspects of the book is the author's descriptive writing style. The island of Pitcairn is beautiful; I now want to go see this special, magical place. Her description of the ocean is so vivid that it could be considered a main character in this tale as well. If you are looking for something a bit different, to escape the real world, and journey to a magical place, give this book a try. I am hoping there will be a continuation of Ava and Daniel's story as well as possible standalones involving other characters of the book.
August 24, 2014
*I received a copy of this book through the Guest Reviewer program at Ethereal Book Reviews (BTW, you should totally check out that blog!!!) in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks to both Ethereal Book Reviews and Nadine Christian for giving me an opportunity to read this book! :)*
You know what? If I could be any supernatural being, I would totally be a mermaid (but not the killer kind; just the Disney Ariel kind).
Ava just remembered something huge that happened when she was 9. This memory leads to a discovery. This discovery then leads to a whole world of lies that get blown up in said liars faces. Basically, the little lie turns Ava’s world upside down.
I found the beginning to be a little slow. I understand that it is important to set up the novel, I do. But in “Discovering Daniel”, a lot of that set up is Ava sitting down and talking about it with her Uncle. Even though it was really interesting to hear the stories about the merfolk, I would have liked to see Ava doing something (like looking for Daniel) in the beginning. However, the book picked up the pace after a while and the last 50-75 pages went by super quick!
Yes. Ok. Some of this book was predictable. But it was a good predictable because when I found out that I was right, I was yelling “I KNEW IT! I WAS RIGHT!” (as you can see, I got really into the book). But the ending solution (I really don’t know what else to call it), I didn’t see coming. I enjoyed the fact that I could predict some parts, but I need Christian to tie it all together for me.
This is the kind of book that I will read over and over again. It is perfect for when you have just read a book like “The Fault in Our Stars” and have completed sobbed your brains out. You need a book where everything goes right in the world. So I thank Nadine Christian for writing the book that is like ice cream after a break up. It makes everything feel better (or sort of).
Maybe you really like mermaids or you are really sad. Either way, they both are reasons on why you should check out “Discovering Daniel” by Nadine Christian.
You know what? If I could be any supernatural being, I would totally be a mermaid (but not the killer kind; just the Disney Ariel kind).
Ava just remembered something huge that happened when she was 9. This memory leads to a discovery. This discovery then leads to a whole world of lies that get blown up in said liars faces. Basically, the little lie turns Ava’s world upside down.
I found the beginning to be a little slow. I understand that it is important to set up the novel, I do. But in “Discovering Daniel”, a lot of that set up is Ava sitting down and talking about it with her Uncle. Even though it was really interesting to hear the stories about the merfolk, I would have liked to see Ava doing something (like looking for Daniel) in the beginning. However, the book picked up the pace after a while and the last 50-75 pages went by super quick!
Yes. Ok. Some of this book was predictable. But it was a good predictable because when I found out that I was right, I was yelling “I KNEW IT! I WAS RIGHT!” (as you can see, I got really into the book). But the ending solution (I really don’t know what else to call it), I didn’t see coming. I enjoyed the fact that I could predict some parts, but I need Christian to tie it all together for me.
This is the kind of book that I will read over and over again. It is perfect for when you have just read a book like “The Fault in Our Stars” and have completed sobbed your brains out. You need a book where everything goes right in the world. So I thank Nadine Christian for writing the book that is like ice cream after a break up. It makes everything feel better (or sort of).
Maybe you really like mermaids or you are really sad. Either way, they both are reasons on why you should check out “Discovering Daniel” by Nadine Christian.
November 19, 2014
*** I received a free copy of this book for an honest review as part of the Guest Reviewer program for EBR reviewers Blog (Check them out they’re awesome)***
Before you start reading this book, you have to know that it’s about mermaids/mer-males/sirens/ whatever you want to call them. BUT, even if you don’t like mermaids, you SHOULD read this book. I didn’t know what to expect, but I decided to give it a shot because the first few chapters got me hooked into the story. This book is about two people from two different worlds trying to have a relationship without either of their worlds finding out. There’s a really cute romance and if love at first sight existed, this would be exactly how it would happen (kind of).
Let me start by talking about the characters. I loved Ava. She’s such a strong and independent teenage girl / woman.. I love the relationship that she has with her family. They’re so close and her dad is basically her best friend. Daniel was such a sweet guy. He’s thoughtful and madly in love with Ava to the point where he’s willing to give up everything that’S familiar to him just to be with her. He’s also quite the charmer. I mean, what 9 year girl could resist a 10 year old boy giving her a coral flower with her hair tie tied to it? Certainly not me.
I couldn’t put this book down. There’s wasn’t really any action scene but I just wanted to figure out how their relationship was going to turn out. I was hooked and just wanted to see more kissy-kissy and cutsie romance.
Something that disappointed me was that a little bit after half the book, I knew how it was going to end. I saw it coming. But still. I will not be re-reading it, but I’m still glad that I did at least once.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes secret relationships (Romeo and Juliette style) or who simply like’s mermaids.
Final Rating: 4,4 Stars
Before you start reading this book, you have to know that it’s about mermaids/mer-males/sirens/ whatever you want to call them. BUT, even if you don’t like mermaids, you SHOULD read this book. I didn’t know what to expect, but I decided to give it a shot because the first few chapters got me hooked into the story. This book is about two people from two different worlds trying to have a relationship without either of their worlds finding out. There’s a really cute romance and if love at first sight existed, this would be exactly how it would happen (kind of).
Let me start by talking about the characters. I loved Ava. She’s such a strong and independent teenage girl / woman.. I love the relationship that she has with her family. They’re so close and her dad is basically her best friend. Daniel was such a sweet guy. He’s thoughtful and madly in love with Ava to the point where he’s willing to give up everything that’S familiar to him just to be with her. He’s also quite the charmer. I mean, what 9 year girl could resist a 10 year old boy giving her a coral flower with her hair tie tied to it? Certainly not me.
I couldn’t put this book down. There’s wasn’t really any action scene but I just wanted to figure out how their relationship was going to turn out. I was hooked and just wanted to see more kissy-kissy and cutsie romance.
Something that disappointed me was that a little bit after half the book, I knew how it was going to end. I saw it coming. But still. I will not be re-reading it, but I’m still glad that I did at least once.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes secret relationships (Romeo and Juliette style) or who simply like’s mermaids.
Final Rating: 4,4 Stars
April 15, 2014
This is getting a solid 3 ½ stars form me today, but to be fair I don’t think I am the target market. This started out great I liked the flow and the characters, it was real, but somewhere around the middle it lost me a little bit, the dialogue went from being good to a bit wooden and stiff and sort of formal-ish. The timing and pacing was well done though and it worked well.
I really did love the ideas that went onto this however. It was very intriguing and whimsical. I have never really read anything like it before, but this was written as a YA and it suits it. But I would like to read a more grown up take on it, not sex or anything like that but just not written for the YA market. I would have liked more world building and adult actions and reactions.
It was a bit repetitive and sort of said the same things over and over at times too.
I didn’t understand the last part of the book at all though, every ones reactions to situations and how everyone talked and interacted just didn’t work. Something huge happened, someone dies and nothing…I don’t get it. Everything seemed swept under the rug and ignored and that’s just not real, I know life goes on but with such a small community surely the loss of someone would be kind of a big deal, big enough for, you know family to turn up for it even!!...like I said I just don’t understand that bit at all and left me feeling a bit cold.
Overall I did enjoy this and I am very interested to see where this goes
I really did love the ideas that went onto this however. It was very intriguing and whimsical. I have never really read anything like it before, but this was written as a YA and it suits it. But I would like to read a more grown up take on it, not sex or anything like that but just not written for the YA market. I would have liked more world building and adult actions and reactions.
It was a bit repetitive and sort of said the same things over and over at times too.
I didn’t understand the last part of the book at all though, every ones reactions to situations and how everyone talked and interacted just didn’t work. Something huge happened, someone dies and nothing…I don’t get it. Everything seemed swept under the rug and ignored and that’s just not real, I know life goes on but with such a small community surely the loss of someone would be kind of a big deal, big enough for, you know family to turn up for it even!!...like I said I just don’t understand that bit at all and left me feeling a bit cold.
Overall I did enjoy this and I am very interested to see where this goes
October 11, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this novel by Nadine Christian. The writing style of this book was absolutely beautiful, it was very poetic and descriptive. The premise of this book was very well executed in my opinion. The thing that I enjoyed the most about reading this book was that it was very refreshing. This story is a different spin on paranormal young adult books. This story is about a human named Ava who through a string of events finds herself drawn to the character of Daniel who is a Mer. The character development that occurred throughout this book was awesome. I really enjoyed this book, but the thing that made this book very excellent in my opinion was the setting. This book is set in an island town and for anyone that has a love for the ocean this book is amazing. I love how Nadine writes about the ocean and really captures the beauty of it. All in all this is a quick, interesting and well developed young adult read that features a unique paranormal twist. The only reason I am giving this book only four stars is because the pacing of this book often is a bit slow. However other than the pacing I think it's a very good book and would recommend it to anyone craving a good summer read that has a gorgeous setting, a touch of supernatural young adult romance and very well rounded characters.
***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***
***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***
September 26, 2014
I received a copy of Discovering Daniel by Nadine Christian for free through Goodreads First Reads.
This is a YA novel. Ava McCoy begins remembering things that she can’t understand. Her family tell her that it isn’t real. She believes the memories are too real and they have to be true. She remembers an accident with her father in Pitcairn waters. She finally is able to get answers from her Uncle Sam with the condition that she keep the information secret. She knows that she shouldn’t keep digging but she feels she must. She remembers Daniel and feels a pull toward the ocean. Daniel saved her father and she has to get to know him. Ava and Daniel are not the same and now they must figure out why no one wants her to know about him and why they have been kept apart.
This is a great fantasy book. Zeno is a creative captivating world and it is easy to have hope for Ava and Daniel. I rated this book 4 stars. I have no doubt that this will be one that I read again.
This review, or links to this review, may also be found on my profile pages as follows:
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This is a YA novel. Ava McCoy begins remembering things that she can’t understand. Her family tell her that it isn’t real. She believes the memories are too real and they have to be true. She remembers an accident with her father in Pitcairn waters. She finally is able to get answers from her Uncle Sam with the condition that she keep the information secret. She knows that she shouldn’t keep digging but she feels she must. She remembers Daniel and feels a pull toward the ocean. Daniel saved her father and she has to get to know him. Ava and Daniel are not the same and now they must figure out why no one wants her to know about him and why they have been kept apart.
This is a great fantasy book. Zeno is a creative captivating world and it is easy to have hope for Ava and Daniel. I rated this book 4 stars. I have no doubt that this will be one that I read again.
This review, or links to this review, may also be found on my profile pages as follows:
Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2...
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A3RJ...
Pintrest http://www.pinterest.com/baltimore333/
Twitter https://twitter.com/chb548s
Google+ https://plus.google.com/u/0/107592987...
April 22, 2014
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
“When rediscovering a past once forgotten, and uncovering secrets meant to stay hidden means heartbreak…and whole new world. “
Meet Ava, just your average girl on the small island that she lives on. She is happy where is at and has a pretty normal life, other her dad’s trips for medical treatment for months at a time off the island.
However there are secrets in store for Ava. 9 years ago a terrible event happened that was forgotten by her, however it soon will be remembered and change her life forever. I loved Ava, she has a great sense of what is right and wrong and will stand for what she believes even if that means risking everything. After reading this book I want to go to this little small island and just get to know the characters in the book. At the end of the day this book is 4 stars out of 5. I can find very little fault and will be on the lookout for this author in the future.
Jedi Christy
“When rediscovering a past once forgotten, and uncovering secrets meant to stay hidden means heartbreak…and whole new world. “
Meet Ava, just your average girl on the small island that she lives on. She is happy where is at and has a pretty normal life, other her dad’s trips for medical treatment for months at a time off the island.
However there are secrets in store for Ava. 9 years ago a terrible event happened that was forgotten by her, however it soon will be remembered and change her life forever. I loved Ava, she has a great sense of what is right and wrong and will stand for what she believes even if that means risking everything. After reading this book I want to go to this little small island and just get to know the characters in the book. At the end of the day this book is 4 stars out of 5. I can find very little fault and will be on the lookout for this author in the future.
Jedi Christy
December 27, 2015
I absolutely loved this story! It was amazing, and definitely not what I was expecting. It was written really well, and the characters were fun to discover. This story is definitely unique, something I have never read before.
The book was written well, and the story was fantastic. I loved the twists and turns that the story bought. It kept me interested, and wanting to read more. I immediately fell in love with the characters, especially Daniel.
The beginning of the book was well thought out. I like how it doesn't immediately throw you into the main story, but shows a little back story that is completely related with it. It was a nice fresh start to a book, and I loved it.
The book ended perfectly, just the way I wanted. I fell in love with this book, and will absolutely be reading it again. I strongly suggest Discovering Daniel to anyone. I have to give this book 5 out of 5 stars!
The book was written well, and the story was fantastic. I loved the twists and turns that the story bought. It kept me interested, and wanting to read more. I immediately fell in love with the characters, especially Daniel.
The beginning of the book was well thought out. I like how it doesn't immediately throw you into the main story, but shows a little back story that is completely related with it. It was a nice fresh start to a book, and I loved it.
The book ended perfectly, just the way I wanted. I fell in love with this book, and will absolutely be reading it again. I strongly suggest Discovering Daniel to anyone. I have to give this book 5 out of 5 stars!
March 8, 2014
This book did not coordinate with the advertisements for book clubs that the publisher put in front of the book. I don’t think one of those book clubs advertising a free erotic book for joining should be in a YA novel. Not sure what the author could do about that, but as a parent I would not want it in my YA reader’s book.
So onto the book, I loved it. It was thought out and wrote well. She meets Daniel at an early age due to an accident. Then after that accident the books jumps about 9 years later. She is almost 18 now, and beginning to remember. It is a thrilling page turning events from then throughout the rest of the book. So many secrets, so many lies, love will prevail or will it? Read this book to find out. I am hoping there are more to come, as it seems their story is not over yet. I can’t wait to read more!
* Reviewed by Confessions of a BooklovinJunkie Blog*
So onto the book, I loved it. It was thought out and wrote well. She meets Daniel at an early age due to an accident. Then after that accident the books jumps about 9 years later. She is almost 18 now, and beginning to remember. It is a thrilling page turning events from then throughout the rest of the book. So many secrets, so many lies, love will prevail or will it? Read this book to find out. I am hoping there are more to come, as it seems their story is not over yet. I can’t wait to read more!
* Reviewed by Confessions of a BooklovinJunkie Blog*
August 29, 2014
This book consists of an original plotline and is appropriate for reading starting from High school.
The story was interesting but was a little hard to get through at times. It does keep you on your toes though. :-) I kind of figurued out wat was going to happen but was still a wee bit surprised as to how it actually turned out to be.
So do mermaids and merman actually still excist? Read and find out!
**Mild cliffhanger**
Sanne - Scandalous Book Blog - ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review
The story was interesting but was a little hard to get through at times. It does keep you on your toes though. :-) I kind of figurued out wat was going to happen but was still a wee bit surprised as to how it actually turned out to be.
So do mermaids and merman actually still excist? Read and find out!
**Mild cliffhanger**
Sanne - Scandalous Book Blog - ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review
para-ya
August 5, 2014For a star rating and complete review go to InD'tale Magazine online, Aug 2014 issue. http://www.indtale.com/reviews/young-...
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