What do you think?
Rate this book
Ultraviolet Catastrophe
A brilliant mind is a terrible thing to waste.
When sixteen-year-old Lexie discovers her parents have been using drugs to suppress her outrageous IQ, she understands why the advanced theories in her physics books have suddenly started making sense. But they’re not done dropping bombshells. Branston Academy, a school run by the world’s most powerful scientists, is searching for her so she can join them – as a research subject.
Her only safe haven is Quantum Technologies, a secret scientific community where her father works as a lead scientist. Now Lexie must prove herself at QT’s school-for-geniuses, where competition is cutthroat and the other student prodigies make Albert Einstein look like an amateur. Including the infuriatingly hot Asher, QT’s resident boy wonder.
But after a series of suspicious accidents in the restricted labs, Lexie discovers that Branston plans to unleash an ultraviolet catastrophe that will destroy everyone she loves. With the enemy closing in, Lexie must find the strength to face her past, or risk losing her future forever.
When sixteen-year-old Lexie discovers her parents have been using drugs to suppress her outrageous IQ, she understands why the advanced theories in her physics books have suddenly started making sense. But they’re not done dropping bombshells. Branston Academy, a school run by the world’s most powerful scientists, is searching for her so she can join them – as a research subject.
Her only safe haven is Quantum Technologies, a secret scientific community where her father works as a lead scientist. Now Lexie must prove herself at QT’s school-for-geniuses, where competition is cutthroat and the other student prodigies make Albert Einstein look like an amateur. Including the infuriatingly hot Asher, QT’s resident boy wonder.
But after a series of suspicious accidents in the restricted labs, Lexie discovers that Branston plans to unleash an ultraviolet catastrophe that will destroy everyone she loves. With the enemy closing in, Lexie must find the strength to face her past, or risk losing her future forever.
ebook
First published August 15, 2013
10 people are currently reading
934 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Grey
10 books130 followers***Sign up for Jamie's newsletter for updates on her new releases.***
As a tech-obsessed gamer geek, Jamie Grey writes sci-fi, fantasy, and contemporary romances about smart women and the men who fall in love with them. Her stories weave together strong heroines, exciting plots, and heart-pounding romance. There may also be a few explosions thrown in for good measure.
She was born and raised in Michigan and has always been the bookish sort. Now she and her husband, Ryan, live in a picturesque college town where she can fully embrace her nerdy side (and order carry-out every night). Aside from writing, Jamie loves reading, playing video games, traveling with her husband, and adding to her already-massive tea collection. Public speaking, children, and cooking terrify her.
You can learn more about her at www.jamiegreybooks.com, or follow her on twitter via @jamie_grey.
As a tech-obsessed gamer geek, Jamie Grey writes sci-fi, fantasy, and contemporary romances about smart women and the men who fall in love with them. Her stories weave together strong heroines, exciting plots, and heart-pounding romance. There may also be a few explosions thrown in for good measure.
She was born and raised in Michigan and has always been the bookish sort. Now she and her husband, Ryan, live in a picturesque college town where she can fully embrace her nerdy side (and order carry-out every night). Aside from writing, Jamie loves reading, playing video games, traveling with her husband, and adding to her already-massive tea collection. Public speaking, children, and cooking terrify her.
You can learn more about her at www.jamiegreybooks.com, or follow her on twitter via @jamie_grey.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 1, 2013
Lexie's the smartest teen in the country, and she's one of the last people to find out. When her brain starts going haywire, her parents reveal that those pills she thought were ADHD meds were actually dulling her synapses, keeping her intelligence appear average. so that she could live a normal life. Not only that, but now that they've stopped working, she'll have to go to transfer to Quantum High, where she'll be able to study with intellectual peers and stay under the close eye of her father, who she's hardly seen for years.
So, you know, the typical teen outrages of not being allowed to go to prom or get your nose pierced or ride on your boyfriend's motorcycle are pretty much blown out of the water right from the beginning of this book. Even Lexie's teen angst as she navigates a new school, new peers who look down on her for having gone to *gasp* public school her whole life, and new information about who she is and who her parents are is totally reasonable and justified.
Slowly, Lexie discovers that she's actually smart enough to make a contribution on the crazy-difficult class project, and that the cutest, smartest guy at school, Asher Rosen, has a thing for her. Just as Lexie starts to feel like she's winning at Quantum High, strange things start to happen. She thinks the whispers of big change at Quantum Tech and randomly malfunctioning computers are bad, until someone turns up dead.
This book is the perfect mix of mystery, kick-ass sci-fi tech, teen drama, and romance. The world of Quantum Tech is flawlessly built, from the cute robotic barista to the cutting-edge technology and power-play politics inside. Grey's writing pulls you right into the story, and before you know it you're deep inside this intriguing world with no desire to leave. This book is highly recommended those who love Anna and the French Kiss for its heroine coming into her own and standing up for herself for the first time, all while falling in love, and Veronica Mars, for its perfect balance of mystery and romance.
Written in an incredibly real and engaging teen voice, Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a lighthearted yet stunningly crafted debut full of adventure, mystery, self-discovery, and romance. From the moment I started reading, Lexie, Asher, and the Quantum Tech world captured my imagination - by the end, they had captured my heart. Ultraviolet Catastrophe is my favorite Young Adult book of 2013, and I know YA readers of all kinds will love it too.
So, you know, the typical teen outrages of not being allowed to go to prom or get your nose pierced or ride on your boyfriend's motorcycle are pretty much blown out of the water right from the beginning of this book. Even Lexie's teen angst as she navigates a new school, new peers who look down on her for having gone to *gasp* public school her whole life, and new information about who she is and who her parents are is totally reasonable and justified.
Slowly, Lexie discovers that she's actually smart enough to make a contribution on the crazy-difficult class project, and that the cutest, smartest guy at school, Asher Rosen, has a thing for her. Just as Lexie starts to feel like she's winning at Quantum High, strange things start to happen. She thinks the whispers of big change at Quantum Tech and randomly malfunctioning computers are bad, until someone turns up dead.
This book is the perfect mix of mystery, kick-ass sci-fi tech, teen drama, and romance. The world of Quantum Tech is flawlessly built, from the cute robotic barista to the cutting-edge technology and power-play politics inside. Grey's writing pulls you right into the story, and before you know it you're deep inside this intriguing world with no desire to leave. This book is highly recommended those who love Anna and the French Kiss for its heroine coming into her own and standing up for herself for the first time, all while falling in love, and Veronica Mars, for its perfect balance of mystery and romance.
Written in an incredibly real and engaging teen voice, Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a lighthearted yet stunningly crafted debut full of adventure, mystery, self-discovery, and romance. From the moment I started reading, Lexie, Asher, and the Quantum Tech world captured my imagination - by the end, they had captured my heart. Ultraviolet Catastrophe is my favorite Young Adult book of 2013, and I know YA readers of all kinds will love it too.
May 28, 2017
Lexie is super smart and didn't fully know it until recently. Her parents knew she had extraordinary intelligence. For Reasons, they gave her medication to damper her brain synapses and to attempt to give her a normal life.
I felt for Lexie. She had every right to be angry. It was frustrating, when confronted, her parents could have come completely or even mostly clean. But they didn't. They gave minimal information when asked. It took Lexie, asking multiple times throughout the course of this book, to fully get the story.
This was decent. Held my interest. Interesting concept and technology. I didn't care for the teenage angst and drama. I think this would have worked better if this hadn't been a YA.
I felt for Lexie. She had every right to be angry. It was frustrating, when confronted, her parents could have come completely or even mostly clean. But they didn't. They gave minimal information when asked. It took Lexie, asking multiple times throughout the course of this book, to fully get the story.
This was decent. Held my interest. Interesting concept and technology. I didn't care for the teenage angst and drama. I think this would have worked better if this hadn't been a YA.
September 2, 2013
Smart and funny with a side of geeky awesomeness, Ultraviolet Catastrophe charmed me from the first page. It’s the kind of YA SF I love: fun, believable characters who take center stage, while still allowing the reader to play in a technology wonderland. With its contemporary, campy feel and a dash of romance, Jamie Grey’s debut novel was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I devoured it in a couple days.
July 28, 2014
Печаль.
Может, все не так уж и плохо, но я слишком часто раздражалась.
Бесили все и вся: истеричностью, нелогичностью, глупостью и т.д.
А уж после "Вора" так я вообще расстроилась:(
Может, все не так уж и плохо, но я слишком часто раздражалась.
Бесили все и вся: истеричностью, нелогичностью, глупостью и т.д.
А уж после "Вора" так я вообще расстроилась:(
October 22, 2013
Suuuper delayed GR updates happening here, but yes, I enjoyed this! The characters were easily likeable and the set-up/story was really cool. I think I'm still a sucker for the whole school specifically designated for _________ kind of students. In this case, it was super geniuses and that was awesomely different. This reeeeeally reminded me of the first Hex Hall book and I mean that in a good way. Like fast-paced, you-want-answers-so-you-breeze-through-the-pages, MC is super hilarious kind of way. Full review to come.
September 3, 2020
Lent this with Kindle Unlimited, which I paid for, as I found a few books, which I would have bought otherwise, so the fee for a few months is justified and cheaper than buying the books.
Starts interesting.
Starts interesting.
September 22, 2013
3.75 stars.
Ultraviolet Catastrophe is one of those books that intrigued me just from reading the summary. Then I read the first sentence of the book and I was hooked. I mean, when something starts “You know your life is never going to be the same when your mom pulls a gun at the shopping mall” it is bound to be good.
First, I will say that I am in no way knowledgeable enough to even know whether the science in this book made sense but….it kind of did. It definitely plays an important role in this book but if you are at all like me and science challenged, don’t be intimidated.
Lexie is the main character and sixteen years old. She has recently found out that her parents have been drugging her under the premise that she has ADHD when really they have been giving her something that will suppress her IQ. When she finds out, of course her world gets flipped upside down. Lexie also finds out at the same time that for the last 10 years, her parents have pretended to hate each other for her protection and now that she is in danger, they make the decision that she will move in with her father who has been pretty absent for the last 10 years. Lexie is immediately enrolled at Quantum Technologies (QT) where the students are scary smart and her father works as a scientist.
Lexie’s character is believable which makes the story believable. She is starting a new school where the kids aren’t very welcoming and she struggles with fitting in. At the same time she is trying to do what she can to make sure people don’t question why she is at QT. It is clear some people at QT are threatened by Lexie but there are also those that are immediately drawn to her.
This leads me to Asher…who I loved. He is the resident genius and it doesn’t hurt that he is nice to look at. The first description alone won me over…
“dark hair, tousled like he’d run his hands through it a few times.” And his eyes…”were a startling shade of blue that made me think of the sky at dawn.”
Add to this the fact that he is charming, nice and wears funny t-shirts like this…
I love nerdy characters and the fact that he is swoony on top of that, only improves my opinion of him. Don’t get me wrong. There were times that I wanted to shake him but I also had to remember he is 16 and teenage boys don’t always get it.
I enjoyed the secondary characters as well. Max and Zella helped moved the story along and Amy was definitely interesting. Although the adults played a critical role they seemed to have very little influence on the progression of the story. The exception was Dr. Danvers. I won’t give anything away here but she definitely played an important role and I found it interesting how Grey tied it all together.
I do wish we had gotten a bit more backstory on Asher’s mom. He was clearly affected when she reached out to him but other than a mention of it and him reacting; I wasn’t sure where it was supposed to lead me as a reader.
I loved that these kids were smart….and I suppose not just smart, mega smart. Yes the science plays a major role in the book but don’t let that scare you away. This book has an interesting premise, a fast paced, solid story and some great characters. If those things interest you at all, definitely check this one out when you can.
Ultraviolet Catastrophe is one of those books that intrigued me just from reading the summary. Then I read the first sentence of the book and I was hooked. I mean, when something starts “You know your life is never going to be the same when your mom pulls a gun at the shopping mall” it is bound to be good.
First, I will say that I am in no way knowledgeable enough to even know whether the science in this book made sense but….it kind of did. It definitely plays an important role in this book but if you are at all like me and science challenged, don’t be intimidated.
Lexie is the main character and sixteen years old. She has recently found out that her parents have been drugging her under the premise that she has ADHD when really they have been giving her something that will suppress her IQ. When she finds out, of course her world gets flipped upside down. Lexie also finds out at the same time that for the last 10 years, her parents have pretended to hate each other for her protection and now that she is in danger, they make the decision that she will move in with her father who has been pretty absent for the last 10 years. Lexie is immediately enrolled at Quantum Technologies (QT) where the students are scary smart and her father works as a scientist.
Lexie’s character is believable which makes the story believable. She is starting a new school where the kids aren’t very welcoming and she struggles with fitting in. At the same time she is trying to do what she can to make sure people don’t question why she is at QT. It is clear some people at QT are threatened by Lexie but there are also those that are immediately drawn to her.
This leads me to Asher…who I loved. He is the resident genius and it doesn’t hurt that he is nice to look at. The first description alone won me over…
“dark hair, tousled like he’d run his hands through it a few times.” And his eyes…”were a startling shade of blue that made me think of the sky at dawn.”
Add to this the fact that he is charming, nice and wears funny t-shirts like this…
I love nerdy characters and the fact that he is swoony on top of that, only improves my opinion of him. Don’t get me wrong. There were times that I wanted to shake him but I also had to remember he is 16 and teenage boys don’t always get it.
I enjoyed the secondary characters as well. Max and Zella helped moved the story along and Amy was definitely interesting. Although the adults played a critical role they seemed to have very little influence on the progression of the story. The exception was Dr. Danvers. I won’t give anything away here but she definitely played an important role and I found it interesting how Grey tied it all together.
I do wish we had gotten a bit more backstory on Asher’s mom. He was clearly affected when she reached out to him but other than a mention of it and him reacting; I wasn’t sure where it was supposed to lead me as a reader.
I loved that these kids were smart….and I suppose not just smart, mega smart. Yes the science plays a major role in the book but don’t let that scare you away. This book has an interesting premise, a fast paced, solid story and some great characters. If those things interest you at all, definitely check this one out when you can.
September 16, 2013
Before I read Ultraviolet Catastrophe, I was in such a reading slump.. I used to finish books in 1-3 days, 4 if I was having an off week. Then I started blogging and taking notes to help me with reviews, and I started to slow down. It was taking me 4-7 days to finish a book, sometimes longer.
And then I read Ultraviolet Catastrophe. I finished this book in about 2 days. I just couldn’t put it down! It was action-packed, interesting, unique and incredible. The characters were likable and relatable. The plot was… Okay, I normally don’t like comparing books to other books because it can really throw people off, depending on whether or not they liked the book you’re using to compare. But I definitely saw certain elements from Beth Revis’ Across the Universe and Rachel Caine’s Morganville Vampires. Both are series I love and this is definitely, 100% a compliment! Also, the science and technology felt authentic, yet it was relatively easy to follow. I only got confused a few times.
I loved the MC, Lexie. She was fun and relatable. As a genius who’s parents drugged her to make her “average,” she has a little more trouble fitting in at her new school than most new students do. She struggles to keep up with her coursework, constantly fighting the drug in her system that’s suppressing her outstanding IQ.
I actually really like when the parents know or are involved. I know a lot of the time, the MC has to hide her abilities or her secret vampire boyfriend, but sometimes it’s nice knowing the parents can swoop in and save the day. Even if they can’t, it’s reassuring to know they can at least try. Although, I must admit, I was a little suspicious of Lexie’s parents for much of the book.
Asher was an interesting character. He was smart and sexy, and sometimes a little over-confident. He and Lexie worked well together, though, and I loved them as a couple. It was also a refreshing change, having Lexie hesitant to start a relationship. Asher pursued her, but she refused to bite for the longest time. I really don’t believe in love at first sight, and so many YA novels have that now. Yes, you can be ATTRACTED to someone and think they’re hot/sexy whatever. But you can’t fall head-over-heels in love with one look. It doesn’t happen. So I really loved how Lexie made Asher fight for it.
I loved Max and Zella. Max was adorable, and I kept waiting for him to be the third part of the love triangle. Actually, it was refreshing – again – when the love triangle ended up being two girls fighting for the same guy, rather than two guys fighting for the same girl. Honestly, everything about this book was refreshing. Except for the stereotypical “mean girl” Amy. I’m a little tired of the mean girl character, but in general, not specifically in this book. Amy was, actually, a complex character with a lot to lose and it was nice seeing that for once, as well, instead of just a shallow, vain mean girl trying to “steal” the popular boy out from under the sweet girl-next-door’s nose.
There was one character – I can’t name names or I’ll give something big away – that I wasn’t suspicious of in the beginning and then as time went on, I grew more and more suspicious of this character. In the end, my suspicions were confirmed! I also didn’t expect what happened to this character in the end. It was just… a complete shock! Pretty much the entire end of the book was a huge shock, honestly. It was incredible and it blew my mind!
I have my fingers crossed that this is a series, because I’m loving these characters and this plot, and I’m anxious to see what kind of trouble Lexie, Asher, Max and Zella get themselves into next!
You can also find more from me on my blog: Pandora's Books
And then I read Ultraviolet Catastrophe. I finished this book in about 2 days. I just couldn’t put it down! It was action-packed, interesting, unique and incredible. The characters were likable and relatable. The plot was… Okay, I normally don’t like comparing books to other books because it can really throw people off, depending on whether or not they liked the book you’re using to compare. But I definitely saw certain elements from Beth Revis’ Across the Universe and Rachel Caine’s Morganville Vampires. Both are series I love and this is definitely, 100% a compliment! Also, the science and technology felt authentic, yet it was relatively easy to follow. I only got confused a few times.
I loved the MC, Lexie. She was fun and relatable. As a genius who’s parents drugged her to make her “average,” she has a little more trouble fitting in at her new school than most new students do. She struggles to keep up with her coursework, constantly fighting the drug in her system that’s suppressing her outstanding IQ.
I actually really like when the parents know or are involved. I know a lot of the time, the MC has to hide her abilities or her secret vampire boyfriend, but sometimes it’s nice knowing the parents can swoop in and save the day. Even if they can’t, it’s reassuring to know they can at least try. Although, I must admit, I was a little suspicious of Lexie’s parents for much of the book.
Asher was an interesting character. He was smart and sexy, and sometimes a little over-confident. He and Lexie worked well together, though, and I loved them as a couple. It was also a refreshing change, having Lexie hesitant to start a relationship. Asher pursued her, but she refused to bite for the longest time. I really don’t believe in love at first sight, and so many YA novels have that now. Yes, you can be ATTRACTED to someone and think they’re hot/sexy whatever. But you can’t fall head-over-heels in love with one look. It doesn’t happen. So I really loved how Lexie made Asher fight for it.
I loved Max and Zella. Max was adorable, and I kept waiting for him to be the third part of the love triangle. Actually, it was refreshing – again – when the love triangle ended up being two girls fighting for the same guy, rather than two guys fighting for the same girl. Honestly, everything about this book was refreshing. Except for the stereotypical “mean girl” Amy. I’m a little tired of the mean girl character, but in general, not specifically in this book. Amy was, actually, a complex character with a lot to lose and it was nice seeing that for once, as well, instead of just a shallow, vain mean girl trying to “steal” the popular boy out from under the sweet girl-next-door’s nose.
There was one character – I can’t name names or I’ll give something big away – that I wasn’t suspicious of in the beginning and then as time went on, I grew more and more suspicious of this character. In the end, my suspicions were confirmed! I also didn’t expect what happened to this character in the end. It was just… a complete shock! Pretty much the entire end of the book was a huge shock, honestly. It was incredible and it blew my mind!
I have my fingers crossed that this is a series, because I’m loving these characters and this plot, and I’m anxious to see what kind of trouble Lexie, Asher, Max and Zella get themselves into next!
You can also find more from me on my blog: Pandora's Books
August 19, 2013
ORIGINALLY POSTED http://t.co/jui79UePQI
"You know your life is never going to be the same when your mom pulls a gun at the shopping mall".
Well, THAT'S a way to start a story.
I've mentioned before that my main genres of love and all the reading float along the contemporary line of things.
I may also have mentioned how much I like a good evil plot.
And geniuses and smart and super intelligent dudes?
And a conspiracy?
Super smart things and people and futuristic robots without being stifled by the science fictionyness of it all?
People lying to each other, causing all the drama?
People who aren't who you thought they were?
Incredible, wonderful writing?
AND as a bonus, an absolutely gorgeous cover?
Um, HELLO HI GIVE ME ALL THE BOOKS RIGHT THIS SECOND.
I don't think I'm alone in my SQUEEing over a book that manages to combine all those things up there on that list of wonderful things to read. But finding a book that manages to get that all in, and a sweet romance that feels SO REAL, so not instalove and so like a bunch of teenagers... the likelihood is about the same as sighting a pink fluffy unicorn dancing on rainbows.
Um, hello, UltraViolet Catastrophe.
Y'all, there are not enough words to tell you how much I enjoyed this. Seriously. I've read books about geniuses, books about teenaged geniuses, books that discuss all kinds of complex science and math, and books with all of the above.
I have never seen it done as well as Jamie Grey did with UVC. Any time a book talks about something a tad out of the ordinary, there's a fine line between weaving it into the story and shoving it down the reader's throat. Whether it's pieces of information (like, physics, which while I took in HS, I don't remember anything) or history, it's easy as a writer to get caught in the trap of infodump.
I am not a genius.
By far.
And not only am I SO NOT A GENIUS (SO NOT, guys), I am not a math-science person. Nope. Not in the slightest. We will not discuss the catastrophe that was most of high school math. Or the horror that was college statistics. In fact, we can pretend the most complicated thing in math is finding X, because I can do that. Usually.
While UVC covered some pretty science-y topics, not once was I confused, nor did I ever feel like Jamie was shoving a science lesson down my throat. The information was woven expertly through the story, in and out of all the teenaged angst and adventure and wonderful things.
There are some books that I read that I'll read and be all, 'Sisters are going to LOVE this book!' There are not that many books that I read an am all, 'Brothers AND Sisters are going to LOVE this book!'
I don't even think I need to tell y'all that the second that UVC is released into the world I will be on Amazon ordering a paperback and forcing all the siblings to read. Because when a book is as excellent as this one is, you've just got to share the love.
But not Asher. Because if there's anything I love more than a sexy genius, it's a sexy JEWISH genius.
MINE.
Go add it to your Goodreads TBR pile. Now. Promise you, you won't regret it. And September 24th, one-click it so fast your finger falls off.
Okay, not that fast. I'd like you to keep all your fingers.
"You know your life is never going to be the same when your mom pulls a gun at the shopping mall".
Well, THAT'S a way to start a story.
I've mentioned before that my main genres of love and all the reading float along the contemporary line of things.
I may also have mentioned how much I like a good evil plot.
And geniuses and smart and super intelligent dudes?
And a conspiracy?
Super smart things and people and futuristic robots without being stifled by the science fictionyness of it all?
People lying to each other, causing all the drama?
People who aren't who you thought they were?
Incredible, wonderful writing?
AND as a bonus, an absolutely gorgeous cover?
Um, HELLO HI GIVE ME ALL THE BOOKS RIGHT THIS SECOND.
I don't think I'm alone in my SQUEEing over a book that manages to combine all those things up there on that list of wonderful things to read. But finding a book that manages to get that all in, and a sweet romance that feels SO REAL, so not instalove and so like a bunch of teenagers... the likelihood is about the same as sighting a pink fluffy unicorn dancing on rainbows.
Um, hello, UltraViolet Catastrophe.
Y'all, there are not enough words to tell you how much I enjoyed this. Seriously. I've read books about geniuses, books about teenaged geniuses, books that discuss all kinds of complex science and math, and books with all of the above.
I have never seen it done as well as Jamie Grey did with UVC. Any time a book talks about something a tad out of the ordinary, there's a fine line between weaving it into the story and shoving it down the reader's throat. Whether it's pieces of information (like, physics, which while I took in HS, I don't remember anything) or history, it's easy as a writer to get caught in the trap of infodump.
I am not a genius.
By far.
And not only am I SO NOT A GENIUS (SO NOT, guys), I am not a math-science person. Nope. Not in the slightest. We will not discuss the catastrophe that was most of high school math. Or the horror that was college statistics. In fact, we can pretend the most complicated thing in math is finding X, because I can do that. Usually.
While UVC covered some pretty science-y topics, not once was I confused, nor did I ever feel like Jamie was shoving a science lesson down my throat. The information was woven expertly through the story, in and out of all the teenaged angst and adventure and wonderful things.
There are some books that I read that I'll read and be all, 'Sisters are going to LOVE this book!' There are not that many books that I read an am all, 'Brothers AND Sisters are going to LOVE this book!'
I don't even think I need to tell y'all that the second that UVC is released into the world I will be on Amazon ordering a paperback and forcing all the siblings to read. Because when a book is as excellent as this one is, you've just got to share the love.
But not Asher. Because if there's anything I love more than a sexy genius, it's a sexy JEWISH genius.
MINE.
Go add it to your Goodreads TBR pile. Now. Promise you, you won't regret it. And September 24th, one-click it so fast your finger falls off.
Okay, not that fast. I'd like you to keep all your fingers.
August 2, 2013
I discovered this book by reading the first chapter at the end of One by Leigh Ann Kopans, and it hooked me up from the starting line: "You know your life is never going to be the same when your mom pulls a gun at the shopping mall".
I added it to my TBR list and when I had the chance to get an advance copy from the author in exchange for an honest review, I just jumped at it, and I'm so glad I did.
Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a YA mix of contemporary and science fiction, with loads of actual science and many brilliant geeky references mixed in.
Lexie is a normal teenager that lives with her mum and has some serious abandonement issues with her mostly absent brilliant scientist dad. But she discovers that maybe she isn't such a normal teenager after all, after a massive freak out from her mum at the mall, getting some weird flashes of knowledge in her brain and having to move with her dad for her safety. Turns out her parents had been lying to her to protect her and supressing her incredible genious level brain with medication.
It is not exactly unexpected that Lexie does completely freak out on her parents and refuses to see reason or even try to understand what's at stake or the reasons her parents might have had. Teenagers are not usually very good at perspective, and Lexie is a very genuine teenager on her reactions and her hurt, but never going overboard. I did shake my head at her reactions and her temper on occasion, but never really felt like shaking her into common sense!
Now on top of having who she thought she was being completely shaken, she's moved in with her dad and starting at a new school in QT (Quantum Technologies) the institution where her father works, and a school for geniuses. She's the new girl, and she's not even sure if she's good enough to try to fit it. And when her group of students is included in the newest project from the institute to build a Einsten-Rosen Bridge, she feels like she might not be up to it.
The relationships with her fellow students feel really genuine, starting with some reservations from some, to curiosity and acceptance from others. There's also romance but it keeps on building along with the plot and it never seems to be at risk to overtake it.
Lexie does grow up during the book and we learn that the past hides many more secrets that she could even imagine, and that there are traitors where you wouldn't expect them to be. The climax might have been resolved a bit quickly, but the build up was pretty good, and I kept on waiting for the shoe to drop. Thankfully it was neatly resolved but the ending was open enough for a future series but also with enough closure for it to be a stand alone. I'm rooting for more books though!
Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a very solid 4 stars and if you like science fiction and science references with added geeky goodness, this is your book. It's a very solid 4 stars and it made me want to go do some reading and researching on physics. Only for that and the Doctor Who, BSG & HP references I feel like I should give it another half star!
I added it to my TBR list and when I had the chance to get an advance copy from the author in exchange for an honest review, I just jumped at it, and I'm so glad I did.
Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a YA mix of contemporary and science fiction, with loads of actual science and many brilliant geeky references mixed in.
Lexie is a normal teenager that lives with her mum and has some serious abandonement issues with her mostly absent brilliant scientist dad. But she discovers that maybe she isn't such a normal teenager after all, after a massive freak out from her mum at the mall, getting some weird flashes of knowledge in her brain and having to move with her dad for her safety. Turns out her parents had been lying to her to protect her and supressing her incredible genious level brain with medication.
It is not exactly unexpected that Lexie does completely freak out on her parents and refuses to see reason or even try to understand what's at stake or the reasons her parents might have had. Teenagers are not usually very good at perspective, and Lexie is a very genuine teenager on her reactions and her hurt, but never going overboard. I did shake my head at her reactions and her temper on occasion, but never really felt like shaking her into common sense!
Now on top of having who she thought she was being completely shaken, she's moved in with her dad and starting at a new school in QT (Quantum Technologies) the institution where her father works, and a school for geniuses. She's the new girl, and she's not even sure if she's good enough to try to fit it. And when her group of students is included in the newest project from the institute to build a Einsten-Rosen Bridge, she feels like she might not be up to it.
The relationships with her fellow students feel really genuine, starting with some reservations from some, to curiosity and acceptance from others. There's also romance but it keeps on building along with the plot and it never seems to be at risk to overtake it.
Lexie does grow up during the book and we learn that the past hides many more secrets that she could even imagine, and that there are traitors where you wouldn't expect them to be. The climax might have been resolved a bit quickly, but the build up was pretty good, and I kept on waiting for the shoe to drop. Thankfully it was neatly resolved but the ending was open enough for a future series but also with enough closure for it to be a stand alone. I'm rooting for more books though!
Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a very solid 4 stars and if you like science fiction and science references with added geeky goodness, this is your book. It's a very solid 4 stars and it made me want to go do some reading and researching on physics. Only for that and the Doctor Who, BSG & HP references I feel like I should give it another half star!
September 23, 2013
4.5 stars.
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
I blame Harry Potter for this, but I love schools where students learn things that are…different. When I saw that this book featured a school fur super-smart teens where they just learned science, I was hooked. Add to that a conspiracy, and how could I possibly have turned down this book? Well, after reading the book itself, I have no reasons why anyone should turn it down, and I'll explain why.
Lexie is a great protagonist. She definitely acted like a teenager, but I don't mean this in a bad way. She hated it when her parents lied to her, and nobody likes to be lied to. She had all the self-esteem issues about fitting in, and I loved that that was portrayed realistically. However, Lexie was a very smart and strong girl, and I loved following the story through her eyes. Plus, she makes Harry Potter references. Obviously, she's awesome.
The love interest in this story was Asher. I loved how Lexie says she doesn't like him for his hotness, but his brain. I think that that is severely missing from a lot of YA books. Yes, Lexie liked his looks, but so many times throughout this book we saw Asher in action. Whether he was hacking or using technology, he was always interesting. Asher was also very vulnerable and flirty. I loved that he wasn't really a bad boy, even though it was hinted at that he was a player. The author did a great job of explaining his flirty persona, and I loved learning about his backstory. I definitely think he and Lexie made a fabulous team, and I was relieved to see that there was no insta-love.
The side characters in this story were interesting. I ended up really liking Zella, who started out seeming like a stereotypical mean girl. I also liked Max, because he was nice and funny. I loved to hate Amy, and I thought the twists regarding her weren't immediately obvious. As for the adults, I definitely sympathized a lot with Lexie's parents, and I hated the villains.
The plot of the story started out as a typical girl going to a new school story. It was kept from being dull, because of all of the technology, and Lexie's love for science. After that, the story changes to a bit of a mystery, since there was a conspiracy going on, and Lexie and her friends had to try and figure it out. I thought it was all very interesting, and I couldn't put this book down. I opened this book meaning to read a chapter, and ended up reading it all.
Therefore, it's easy to see that I really, really liked this book. I loved the relationships between the main characters, the technology was inventive and interesting, and the plot was exciting. The author has a great writing style, and I was always wanting to know what was going to happen next. It's definitely a great story, and I very highly recommend it to those who read YA science fiction.
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
I blame Harry Potter for this, but I love schools where students learn things that are…different. When I saw that this book featured a school fur super-smart teens where they just learned science, I was hooked. Add to that a conspiracy, and how could I possibly have turned down this book? Well, after reading the book itself, I have no reasons why anyone should turn it down, and I'll explain why.
Lexie is a great protagonist. She definitely acted like a teenager, but I don't mean this in a bad way. She hated it when her parents lied to her, and nobody likes to be lied to. She had all the self-esteem issues about fitting in, and I loved that that was portrayed realistically. However, Lexie was a very smart and strong girl, and I loved following the story through her eyes. Plus, she makes Harry Potter references. Obviously, she's awesome.
The love interest in this story was Asher. I loved how Lexie says she doesn't like him for his hotness, but his brain. I think that that is severely missing from a lot of YA books. Yes, Lexie liked his looks, but so many times throughout this book we saw Asher in action. Whether he was hacking or using technology, he was always interesting. Asher was also very vulnerable and flirty. I loved that he wasn't really a bad boy, even though it was hinted at that he was a player. The author did a great job of explaining his flirty persona, and I loved learning about his backstory. I definitely think he and Lexie made a fabulous team, and I was relieved to see that there was no insta-love.
The side characters in this story were interesting. I ended up really liking Zella, who started out seeming like a stereotypical mean girl. I also liked Max, because he was nice and funny. I loved to hate Amy, and I thought the twists regarding her weren't immediately obvious. As for the adults, I definitely sympathized a lot with Lexie's parents, and I hated the villains.
The plot of the story started out as a typical girl going to a new school story. It was kept from being dull, because of all of the technology, and Lexie's love for science. After that, the story changes to a bit of a mystery, since there was a conspiracy going on, and Lexie and her friends had to try and figure it out. I thought it was all very interesting, and I couldn't put this book down. I opened this book meaning to read a chapter, and ended up reading it all.
Therefore, it's easy to see that I really, really liked this book. I loved the relationships between the main characters, the technology was inventive and interesting, and the plot was exciting. The author has a great writing style, and I was always wanting to know what was going to happen next. It's definitely a great story, and I very highly recommend it to those who read YA science fiction.
September 26, 2013
Posted to Almost Grown-up:
I so enjoyed my reading of Ultraviolet Catastrophe by Jamie Grey.
Jamie Grey has a writing style that flows easily. Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a quick read with a fun premise and it’s positively rife with nerdy references and humor. When the main character, Lexie, mentioned owning a TARDIS cookie jar, I about fell over. And the references don’t end there. With a cast of characters that are born to genius and excel at science, the references fit.
Especially when they come from Asher Rosen, who makes nerdy T-shirts look damn good. Guys, I crushed hard on Asher. He has a bunch of one-liners that made me giggle, he’s smart, and he’s gorgeous. He’s a little cocky and has a reputation as a being sort of a ladies’ man, but somehow it works– he doesn’t come off as a douchenozzle.
I really loved the development of his relationship with Lexie. Instant attraction is obvious, but most of the time Lexie is pretty level-headed about her crush, which I appreciated. They develop as friends first– albeit flirty friends. I also enjoyed the side characters as well, such as Max and Zella– though Zella threw me off a bit. She can’t seem to decide if she wants to be nice to Lexie or not.
And I really enjoyed the fact that an important plot element in Ultraviolet Catastrophe was Lexie’s relationship with her parents– most notably her dad. Because of the decisions her parents made in order to protect her, her relationship with her father is a distant one, and even more fragmented over the revelations of her past.
As for Lexie herself, she was a fun character– despite her genius, she’s easy to relate to and funny. At times, I felt like we rehashed her anger with her parents a little too much– and sometimes reacts in a way that made me want to roll my eyes. HOWEVER, did she feel like an authentic teenager in those instances? Most def.
The science of the book was fairly easy to follow. Some explanations made my eyes gloss over, but I suspect that’s years of disengaging in science courses at school at work, rather than Grey’s writing. Lexie’s evolution from her drugged genius to bonafide genius seemed a bit inconsistent at times, most notably in the beginning, but Ultraviolet Catastrophe recovered from that stumbling block as the plot progressed.
Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the mystery at play– someone is sabotaging Quantum’s Einstein-Rosen bridge, and it’s plotted extremely well– including the climax and resolution. I can say no more! You’ll have to read Ultraviolet Catastrophe by Jamie Grey for yourself and find out. ^_~
I so enjoyed my reading of Ultraviolet Catastrophe by Jamie Grey.
Jamie Grey has a writing style that flows easily. Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a quick read with a fun premise and it’s positively rife with nerdy references and humor. When the main character, Lexie, mentioned owning a TARDIS cookie jar, I about fell over. And the references don’t end there. With a cast of characters that are born to genius and excel at science, the references fit.
Especially when they come from Asher Rosen, who makes nerdy T-shirts look damn good. Guys, I crushed hard on Asher. He has a bunch of one-liners that made me giggle, he’s smart, and he’s gorgeous. He’s a little cocky and has a reputation as a being sort of a ladies’ man, but somehow it works– he doesn’t come off as a douchenozzle.
I really loved the development of his relationship with Lexie. Instant attraction is obvious, but most of the time Lexie is pretty level-headed about her crush, which I appreciated. They develop as friends first– albeit flirty friends. I also enjoyed the side characters as well, such as Max and Zella– though Zella threw me off a bit. She can’t seem to decide if she wants to be nice to Lexie or not.
And I really enjoyed the fact that an important plot element in Ultraviolet Catastrophe was Lexie’s relationship with her parents– most notably her dad. Because of the decisions her parents made in order to protect her, her relationship with her father is a distant one, and even more fragmented over the revelations of her past.
As for Lexie herself, she was a fun character– despite her genius, she’s easy to relate to and funny. At times, I felt like we rehashed her anger with her parents a little too much– and sometimes reacts in a way that made me want to roll my eyes. HOWEVER, did she feel like an authentic teenager in those instances? Most def.
The science of the book was fairly easy to follow. Some explanations made my eyes gloss over, but I suspect that’s years of disengaging in science courses at school at work, rather than Grey’s writing. Lexie’s evolution from her drugged genius to bonafide genius seemed a bit inconsistent at times, most notably in the beginning, but Ultraviolet Catastrophe recovered from that stumbling block as the plot progressed.
Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the mystery at play– someone is sabotaging Quantum’s Einstein-Rosen bridge, and it’s plotted extremely well– including the climax and resolution. I can say no more! You’ll have to read Ultraviolet Catastrophe by Jamie Grey for yourself and find out. ^_~
January 16, 2015
Well, this was a let down.
With the summary given to you, you would think that Lexie would a fun, competent, and blindingly smart character. Not so much on all of it. For all that she is a genius she mostly falters on the academic front, and the ways that show her genius are--well, are kind of silly and obviously used to be convenient. Lexie has flashes of inspiration but that's it. She doesn't seem to learn any faster, she doesn't seem to pick things up quicker in general, and maybe that's the lingering effect of the drugs her parents give her, but I expected a genius. Not so much.
But I'm skipping ahead. Let's go back to the beginning where Lexie gets the bombshell dropped on her that her parents have been lying to her the entire time and she's really a genius. I haaate the entire "we were trying to protect you by keeping information from you", only this is worse because her parents just casually made her stupider as well. And that's a big theme in the book--secrets and lying to protect people and so on. It drives me crazy because Lexie rails at her parents for keeping secrets and then she and her group just blithely starts keeping secrets that can cost people their lives.
So Lexie is now in QT and enrolled in the school which is filled with some of the brightest students around. To my sorrow you don't really get much of the school aspect. Oh, Lexie spends a lot of time at school, but it's not about the classes or her struggling with the day to day coursework. It's mostly about a special project that looms over their heads and Lexie's inner cries of low self esteem (of which you have a lot of Lexie wallowing).
I just wanted to like this. Instead of pages about Lexie trying to work all of this out, go to school, exercise her mind and becoming more confident, you gets pages of her immense crush on Asher, who is the resident genius and playboy all rolled into one package. Not only that, you get pages and pages of how jealous she gets (and it happens often) and her trying to convince herself that she and Asher can just be friends. Lexie is presented to the reader as potentially extraordinary, and she mostly ends up being... well, ordinary. And not in a good way.
The character relationships is kind of faltering, even ignoring Lexie and Asher's relationship. The tension between Lexie and her parents doesn't seem real half the time and trying too hard the other half the time. Lexie doesn't really develop any friendships or connections with people outside of Asher, which is a shame. Even Lexie's parent's relationship is vague. The plot unravels slowly and is quite ridiculous as well. I wanted to really like this book. I ended up rather disliking it. Oh well. 2 stars.
With the summary given to you, you would think that Lexie would a fun, competent, and blindingly smart character. Not so much on all of it. For all that she is a genius she mostly falters on the academic front, and the ways that show her genius are--well, are kind of silly and obviously used to be convenient. Lexie has flashes of inspiration but that's it. She doesn't seem to learn any faster, she doesn't seem to pick things up quicker in general, and maybe that's the lingering effect of the drugs her parents give her, but I expected a genius. Not so much.
But I'm skipping ahead. Let's go back to the beginning where Lexie gets the bombshell dropped on her that her parents have been lying to her the entire time and she's really a genius. I haaate the entire "we were trying to protect you by keeping information from you", only this is worse because her parents just casually made her stupider as well. And that's a big theme in the book--secrets and lying to protect people and so on. It drives me crazy because Lexie rails at her parents for keeping secrets and then she and her group just blithely starts keeping secrets that can cost people their lives.
So Lexie is now in QT and enrolled in the school which is filled with some of the brightest students around. To my sorrow you don't really get much of the school aspect. Oh, Lexie spends a lot of time at school, but it's not about the classes or her struggling with the day to day coursework. It's mostly about a special project that looms over their heads and Lexie's inner cries of low self esteem (of which you have a lot of Lexie wallowing).
I just wanted to like this. Instead of pages about Lexie trying to work all of this out, go to school, exercise her mind and becoming more confident, you gets pages of her immense crush on Asher, who is the resident genius and playboy all rolled into one package. Not only that, you get pages and pages of how jealous she gets (and it happens often) and her trying to convince herself that she and Asher can just be friends. Lexie is presented to the reader as potentially extraordinary, and she mostly ends up being... well, ordinary. And not in a good way.
The character relationships is kind of faltering, even ignoring Lexie and Asher's relationship. The tension between Lexie and her parents doesn't seem real half the time and trying too hard the other half the time. Lexie doesn't really develop any friendships or connections with people outside of Asher, which is a shame. Even Lexie's parent's relationship is vague. The plot unravels slowly and is quite ridiculous as well. I wanted to really like this book. I ended up rather disliking it. Oh well. 2 stars.
September 20, 2013
Wow! Ultraviolet Catastrophe is fantastic! I just read another science-y book when I read Gretchen McNeil's 3:59 and I really enjoyed it. This was another great action book with a big science theme throughout. I loved the concept of the book. Lexie is super smart and then she finds out that not only is she even smarter than she ever thought, but she has also been lied to and drugged to mask her intelligence. She is quickly whisked off to a cool and very science-oriented community for brainiacs like herself. She goes to school there and she finds out that not everything is as it seems. People are out to get her and she doesn't know why. She is just trying to fit in, and then she has to get to the bottom of a major mystery. I loved the action and suspense in this book. I was engaged from the first page to the last. I just loved the story and I am anxiously hoping there will be another.
Lexie is such a great character. She is believable and resourceful. I liked that she held a bit of a grudge. Too often things seem to happen to easily and too conveniently in stories and it feels fake or forced to me. But not in Ultraviolet Catastrophe. I loved the pacing and the reactions that the characters had to the events that unfolded. If I found out that my parents had lied to me and given me medication to make me dumber, I would be beyond pissed. Just like Lexie. And I don't think I would have gotten past it overnight either. but Lexie soon jumped right into her new life at QT and was really dedicated to proving herself. I admired that about her.
I also really liked the cast of secondary characters. Zella, Max, Amy and Asher were a great group of friends, and maybe some less than friends for Lexie. I thought they all brought something to the plot and atmosphere of the story. I also really enjoyed that we got to learn some of the backstory of a few of the scientists at QT.
The depth and detail in Ultraviolet Catastrophe was impressive! Nothing felt rushed or left me asking questions or feeling confused. I felt like I was pulled into the world at QT and like I was watching everything unfold in real time around me. I loved Jamie Grey's writing. It felt three dimensional to me. Everything did really- the characters, the plot, the science behind everything. It was all so well done. Ultraviolet Catastrophe's mystery and twists and turns were the best part of the book for me. It was pulse pounding action all the way through. I loved the fast pace of the story. I was really, really impressed with this book. I think it is a must read for science fiction fans.
Lexie is such a great character. She is believable and resourceful. I liked that she held a bit of a grudge. Too often things seem to happen to easily and too conveniently in stories and it feels fake or forced to me. But not in Ultraviolet Catastrophe. I loved the pacing and the reactions that the characters had to the events that unfolded. If I found out that my parents had lied to me and given me medication to make me dumber, I would be beyond pissed. Just like Lexie. And I don't think I would have gotten past it overnight either. but Lexie soon jumped right into her new life at QT and was really dedicated to proving herself. I admired that about her.
I also really liked the cast of secondary characters. Zella, Max, Amy and Asher were a great group of friends, and maybe some less than friends for Lexie. I thought they all brought something to the plot and atmosphere of the story. I also really enjoyed that we got to learn some of the backstory of a few of the scientists at QT.
The depth and detail in Ultraviolet Catastrophe was impressive! Nothing felt rushed or left me asking questions or feeling confused. I felt like I was pulled into the world at QT and like I was watching everything unfold in real time around me. I loved Jamie Grey's writing. It felt three dimensional to me. Everything did really- the characters, the plot, the science behind everything. It was all so well done. Ultraviolet Catastrophe's mystery and twists and turns were the best part of the book for me. It was pulse pounding action all the way through. I loved the fast pace of the story. I was really, really impressed with this book. I think it is a must read for science fiction fans.
February 15, 2014
This book was on my to-read this for quiet some time and I finally get to read it. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Ultraviolet Catastrophe by Jamie Grey. I got hooked just from reading the first sentence!
Lexie Kepler is sixteen years old when she so happens to find out that her parents have been keeping this huge secret from her. The secret is Lexie being the most intelligent person on the planet! I kid you not! And her last name is Kepler! Her relationship with her parents is very detached. Both of them are big name scientists who works for Quantum Technologies (QT), a top secret scientific community. Her mother is always busy working in her lab and Lexie has never seen her father for years. To hide the fact that she's a genius, her parents gave her ADHD pills to suppress her intellect since she was five. FIVE!
When the ADHD pills weren't working for her anymore, trouble starts to come. Branston Academy, a school run by the most powerful scientists in the world, wants Lexie all to themselves and they will do whatever it takes to have her on their side. Her mother decides it is best that she take her to Quantum Technologies where Lexie's father is currently at. Unexpected turn of events, her father enrolls her into Quantum High, a school for geniuses. There she meets Asher. He is the so-called resident genius, the smartest student in Quantum High. He is also a potential romantic interest for Lexie.
Wow! This book is full of awesomeness. I loved the supporting characters, especially Zella. She started out as a mean girl but she progressed to being really spiteful to being very supportive and a friend you'll like to have. I also love the protagonist. What I like about Lexie is she is very relatable. Of course, when your parents hides something as important as that I will feel very betrayed.
Overall, this book is very engaging, fast-paced, action-packed, and full of witty remarks. You just don't know, you might even learn something just by reading this book. I totally recommend this to anyone who loves sci-fi with a mix of romance and action. It finally comes down to this, my rating. I, hereby, give this book 4.5 stars!
"You know your life is never going to be the same when your mom pulls a gun at the shopping mall."
Lexie Kepler is sixteen years old when she so happens to find out that her parents have been keeping this huge secret from her. The secret is Lexie being the most intelligent person on the planet! I kid you not! And her last name is Kepler! Her relationship with her parents is very detached. Both of them are big name scientists who works for Quantum Technologies (QT), a top secret scientific community. Her mother is always busy working in her lab and Lexie has never seen her father for years. To hide the fact that she's a genius, her parents gave her ADHD pills to suppress her intellect since she was five. FIVE!
When the ADHD pills weren't working for her anymore, trouble starts to come. Branston Academy, a school run by the most powerful scientists in the world, wants Lexie all to themselves and they will do whatever it takes to have her on their side. Her mother decides it is best that she take her to Quantum Technologies where Lexie's father is currently at. Unexpected turn of events, her father enrolls her into Quantum High, a school for geniuses. There she meets Asher. He is the so-called resident genius, the smartest student in Quantum High. He is also a potential romantic interest for Lexie.
Wow! This book is full of awesomeness. I loved the supporting characters, especially Zella. She started out as a mean girl but she progressed to being really spiteful to being very supportive and a friend you'll like to have. I also love the protagonist. What I like about Lexie is she is very relatable. Of course, when your parents hides something as important as that I will feel very betrayed.
"You wanted to protect me from something that might have been a threat, but instead, you destroyed any trust between us. You've lied to me my entire life about who I really am. I can't forgive you for that."
Overall, this book is very engaging, fast-paced, action-packed, and full of witty remarks. You just don't know, you might even learn something just by reading this book. I totally recommend this to anyone who loves sci-fi with a mix of romance and action. It finally comes down to this, my rating. I, hereby, give this book 4.5 stars!
September 23, 2013
Originally posted here: http://writelock.blogspot.com/2013/09...
"You know your life is never going to be the same when your mom pulls a gun at the shopping mall."
From the very first sentence, Ultraviolet Catastrophe by Jamie Grey is an action-rich adventure. It's a novel for geek girls everywhere, particularly those who like a little danger in their plots and a large dash of romance.
The charm of this book is in its unashamed affection for all things sci fi. Quantum High (along with the town it is set in) is an absolute delight. Ultraviolet Catastrophe is one of the few novels that makes me wish I could live in its setting, a place where robot librarians have a personality and hoverboards are an everyday affair. All the geeky details of Lexie's life made me smile, from the Albert Einstein action figure to the Dr. Who cookie jar to the nerdy t shirts worn by her crush, Asher Rosen.
I love the plot of the book as well. I was hooked by the idea of a wormhole machine that could, just maybe, be a weapon in disguise. Thrown in a murder mystery on the side, and this story is just the sort of fun adventure I'm looking for. The last few chapters are gripping, complete with suspenseful countdown.
And Jamie Grey does these things very well. Any time Lexie or someone she cares about is in danger, I'm riveted to the story. Not only that, but Jamie deftly escorts the reader through the tricky bits of physics without any bit of confusion. Anyone could tell just by reading the book how much she loves science, and her enthusiasm is catching.
The book does have a few flaws. For me Lexie's relationship with Asher was too much a focus of the book and detracted from the rest of the plot. Lexie spends most of the book distracted by Asher's good looks, but determined to avoid a relationship, which comes across as playing a long game of hard-to-get. This dynamic may be too familiar for some readers.
Likewise, Lexie's sullenness toward her parents and general flare for drama were a little too expected. She certainly had good reason to be angry, but at times her attitude felt overdone.
Nevertheless, the book is an engaging romp through the fields of quantum physics. I highly recommend it. It's a strong debut, and I look forward to many more novels to come from Jamie Grey.
"You know your life is never going to be the same when your mom pulls a gun at the shopping mall."
From the very first sentence, Ultraviolet Catastrophe by Jamie Grey is an action-rich adventure. It's a novel for geek girls everywhere, particularly those who like a little danger in their plots and a large dash of romance.
The charm of this book is in its unashamed affection for all things sci fi. Quantum High (along with the town it is set in) is an absolute delight. Ultraviolet Catastrophe is one of the few novels that makes me wish I could live in its setting, a place where robot librarians have a personality and hoverboards are an everyday affair. All the geeky details of Lexie's life made me smile, from the Albert Einstein action figure to the Dr. Who cookie jar to the nerdy t shirts worn by her crush, Asher Rosen.
I love the plot of the book as well. I was hooked by the idea of a wormhole machine that could, just maybe, be a weapon in disguise. Thrown in a murder mystery on the side, and this story is just the sort of fun adventure I'm looking for. The last few chapters are gripping, complete with suspenseful countdown.
And Jamie Grey does these things very well. Any time Lexie or someone she cares about is in danger, I'm riveted to the story. Not only that, but Jamie deftly escorts the reader through the tricky bits of physics without any bit of confusion. Anyone could tell just by reading the book how much she loves science, and her enthusiasm is catching.
The book does have a few flaws. For me Lexie's relationship with Asher was too much a focus of the book and detracted from the rest of the plot. Lexie spends most of the book distracted by Asher's good looks, but determined to avoid a relationship, which comes across as playing a long game of hard-to-get. This dynamic may be too familiar for some readers.
Likewise, Lexie's sullenness toward her parents and general flare for drama were a little too expected. She certainly had good reason to be angry, but at times her attitude felt overdone.
Nevertheless, the book is an engaging romp through the fields of quantum physics. I highly recommend it. It's a strong debut, and I look forward to many more novels to come from Jamie Grey.
September 26, 2013
I went into this with a bit of trepidation. To be 100% transparent, I was worried the sciency stuff would leave me feeling like an idiot. I hated school. But I hated Science even more. So you can probably understand why I assumed a book with such a strong focus on science and genius teenagers would leave me feeling a bit nervous.
I was THRILLED as I began reading UVC that though there were definitely terms I knew nothing about (heck, I still have no idea if this stuff was real or made up *runs to Google*), my lack of sciency knowledge did absolutely NOTHING to hinder the story.
Because, in my opinion, ULTRAVIOLET CATASTROPHE isn't a story about science.
UVC is first and foremost a story about accepting yourself for who you are, and finding your role in the world around you. It is secondly a story about friendship and love (though I do wish there'd been a bit more of the love aspect).
As far as the characters go, I felt that Jamie Grey did a fabulous job forming her characters. She allowed me to easily relate to Lexie (though genius, I am not); I instantly swooned for Asher (hello intelligence, confidence AND looks!); and I even liked Zella . . . almost instantly to be honest, and well before we were supposed to--which makes this also a story of redemption (for both Zella and Lexie's father.)
Jamie's writing flowed well and was easy to read, which as I mentioned before was something I worried about with geniuses and science being such a main factor of the story. I never felt confused or left out, and I always wanted to know what would come next. Jamie created a perfectly awkward romance--well, two, if you count the side characters--perfectly fitting for 15/16 year olds who may be geniuses and have book smarts to spare, but when it comes to romance are just as awkward as I was at that age.
I'd recommend this book for ANYONE, but as far as age appropriateness goes, I'd say 13 and up. If you love a great story with an awesome, brilliant and believable heroine, a swoon-worthy fictional boyfriend, and a cast of side characters that add as much depth to the storyline as the MC's, ULTRAVIOLET CATASTROPHE is definitely for you.
And, hey, have you seen that cover!? PERFECTION.
I was THRILLED as I began reading UVC that though there were definitely terms I knew nothing about (heck, I still have no idea if this stuff was real or made up *runs to Google*), my lack of sciency knowledge did absolutely NOTHING to hinder the story.
Because, in my opinion, ULTRAVIOLET CATASTROPHE isn't a story about science.
UVC is first and foremost a story about accepting yourself for who you are, and finding your role in the world around you. It is secondly a story about friendship and love (though I do wish there'd been a bit more of the love aspect).
As far as the characters go, I felt that Jamie Grey did a fabulous job forming her characters. She allowed me to easily relate to Lexie (though genius, I am not); I instantly swooned for Asher (hello intelligence, confidence AND looks!); and I even liked Zella . . . almost instantly to be honest, and well before we were supposed to--which makes this also a story of redemption (for both Zella and Lexie's father.)
Jamie's writing flowed well and was easy to read, which as I mentioned before was something I worried about with geniuses and science being such a main factor of the story. I never felt confused or left out, and I always wanted to know what would come next. Jamie created a perfectly awkward romance--well, two, if you count the side characters--perfectly fitting for 15/16 year olds who may be geniuses and have book smarts to spare, but when it comes to romance are just as awkward as I was at that age.
I'd recommend this book for ANYONE, but as far as age appropriateness goes, I'd say 13 and up. If you love a great story with an awesome, brilliant and believable heroine, a swoon-worthy fictional boyfriend, and a cast of side characters that add as much depth to the storyline as the MC's, ULTRAVIOLET CATASTROPHE is definitely for you.
And, hey, have you seen that cover!? PERFECTION.
September 16, 2013
Sixteen-year-old Lexie Kepler has strange flashes of brilliance that she can't explain. Turns out she is one of the smartest teens in the country, but her parents hid it from her. Under the rouse of needing ADHD medication, her parents suppressed her extreme intelligence. But when some of the world's smartest scientists from Branston Academy come looking for her, her mom sends her away from the life she's always know to live with her dad who she barely talks to. Her dad lives in a town run by Quantum Technologies, a secret scientific research facility where the best and the brightest scientists and students research and learn.
On her first day at Quantum High, Lexie feels less than average compared to her super smart classmates, including the handsome Asher Rosen. Asher is the resident class hottie who dates all the girls in their small class. And as if feeling stupid in a class full of geniuses wasn't hard enough, Lexie finds herself inexplicably drawn to Asher and jealous of her classmates that seem to fawn all over him.
During their first big assignment on wormholes, Lexie is picked by Asher to work on the student team. When she discovers a mistake in the primary equation, it looks like someone may be trying to sabotage the project. Lexie must work closely with Asher and her classmates to figure out who is behind the plot, all the while wondering who she can trust and if Asher's flirtations are genuine or not.
For the rest of the review visit me blog: http://jamiekrakover.blogspot.com/201...
On her first day at Quantum High, Lexie feels less than average compared to her super smart classmates, including the handsome Asher Rosen. Asher is the resident class hottie who dates all the girls in their small class. And as if feeling stupid in a class full of geniuses wasn't hard enough, Lexie finds herself inexplicably drawn to Asher and jealous of her classmates that seem to fawn all over him.
During their first big assignment on wormholes, Lexie is picked by Asher to work on the student team. When she discovers a mistake in the primary equation, it looks like someone may be trying to sabotage the project. Lexie must work closely with Asher and her classmates to figure out who is behind the plot, all the while wondering who she can trust and if Asher's flirtations are genuine or not.
For the rest of the review visit me blog: http://jamiekrakover.blogspot.com/201...
December 17, 2015
I'm 61% done with Ultraviolet Catastrophe: Starting reading this yesterday and LOVE IT. Its a little bit of a book you've got to really concentrate and read but I'm flying through it because I do actually love this book. I hope the ending is just as good
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I really like this book, like I really really like this book.
I was disappointed when
I however did love love love the whole story line it was different and it starts off pretty unassuming and I kind of went into the story thinking I'll hate this book because the start is a tad well uneventful. Which when you finish the book its good its uneventful, its good that it gives you a second to kind of catch up.
The introduction of two love interests through me a tad, it does get a little bit like high school musical. I don't dislike schoolish books but it did kind of get a little bit annoying. Amy was introduced as if she was going to be nice, which makes me believe maybe she wasn't meant to be nasty and the author changed her mind during the book? Which is cool its a nice spin to do that make her mean and Zella nice, its different but it works.
Will try and read the author again! I really enjoyed this book
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I really like this book, like I really really like this book.
I was disappointed when
I however did love love love the whole story line it was different and it starts off pretty unassuming and I kind of went into the story thinking I'll hate this book because the start is a tad well uneventful. Which when you finish the book its good its uneventful, its good that it gives you a second to kind of catch up.
The introduction of two love interests through me a tad, it does get a little bit like high school musical. I don't dislike schoolish books but it did kind of get a little bit annoying. Amy was introduced as if she was going to be nice, which makes me believe maybe she wasn't meant to be nasty and the author changed her mind during the book? Which is cool its a nice spin to do that make her mean and Zella nice, its different but it works.
Will try and read the author again! I really enjoyed this book
September 26, 2013
Full review to come later, but general thoughts: Love this book, Love the characters, and I want a sequel RIGHT THIS VERY MINUTE.
***
Full Review:
First off, I loved this book. Love. Absolutely love. I'm not a huge science fiction fan, as it sometimes gets a little too technical for me to read as a light read. (Yes, even in young adult.) Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a brilliant balance of science fiction worldbuilding, with a contemporary lifestyle. The two mesh beautifully.
Lexie is what I consider a relatable heroine. As some of y'all might know, I have issues with so-called-heroines like Katniss who are admittedly awesome...but seriously, who could be like that? No one. Which is why I love Lexie. Lexie is real. She says what real girls say, does what real girls do, and still manages to be fresh and interesting.
Asher? Swoon. Brains + Beauty = Swoon. That's all you need to know.
You need more? Fine. Asher is surprisingly complex for a potential romantic interest, and I really enjoyed watching the different sides of him, and seeing the layers of his character peel back.
This is a fun, action-packed read with realistic and refreshing characters. I found myself giggling, gasping and swooning as I read. I highlighted on my Kindle with sheer glee.
Have I said that I want a sequel now? Because I do.
***
Full Review:
First off, I loved this book. Love. Absolutely love. I'm not a huge science fiction fan, as it sometimes gets a little too technical for me to read as a light read. (Yes, even in young adult.) Ultraviolet Catastrophe is a brilliant balance of science fiction worldbuilding, with a contemporary lifestyle. The two mesh beautifully.
Lexie is what I consider a relatable heroine. As some of y'all might know, I have issues with so-called-heroines like Katniss who are admittedly awesome...but seriously, who could be like that? No one. Which is why I love Lexie. Lexie is real. She says what real girls say, does what real girls do, and still manages to be fresh and interesting.
Asher? Swoon. Brains + Beauty = Swoon. That's all you need to know.
You need more? Fine. Asher is surprisingly complex for a potential romantic interest, and I really enjoyed watching the different sides of him, and seeing the layers of his character peel back.
This is a fun, action-packed read with realistic and refreshing characters. I found myself giggling, gasping and swooning as I read. I highlighted on my Kindle with sheer glee.
Have I said that I want a sequel now? Because I do.
December 5, 2013
Ultraviolet Catastrophe is intelligent, well written and thoroughly edited, and once I started it I couldn't put it down. When I finish a book and spend a few days thinking about it rather than starting another one, I know that it deserves five stars - and this one did that for me. The characters, for the most part, were likeable and well rounded (the adults less so, but that was okay) and the bad guys were nasty indeed. Asher was . . . memorable. I wish I'd had a guy like him when I was a teenager! The story was fresh and unusual - I think Jamie Grey was very brave to tackle such complicated scientific theories and she did it quite successfully.
I have only one issue, and it's very, very nitpicky. The word "sprint" was used frequently and I found it distracting, especially when Lexie "sprinted" down the hall to her bedroom after a confrontation with her father. I could see where she might have "rushed," "hurried," "fled" or maybe even "dashed," but I just can't picture anyone sprinting down a short hall in a ranch style home without smacking straight into a wall. I've devoted more time than I'd care to admit trying to imagine doing just that. See, I said it was nitpicky. And truthfully, it didn't take away from the story as a whole. This book is excellent and I highly recommend it.
I have only one issue, and it's very, very nitpicky. The word "sprint" was used frequently and I found it distracting, especially when Lexie "sprinted" down the hall to her bedroom after a confrontation with her father. I could see where she might have "rushed," "hurried," "fled" or maybe even "dashed," but I just can't picture anyone sprinting down a short hall in a ranch style home without smacking straight into a wall. I've devoted more time than I'd care to admit trying to imagine doing just that. See, I said it was nitpicky. And truthfully, it didn't take away from the story as a whole. This book is excellent and I highly recommend it.
December 30, 2014
Actual rating: 2.5 stars. Okay, yeah, I think I'm officially a Jamie Grey fan.
Ultraviolet Catastrophe was a fun, smart, well-paced read. The first book of hers I read was The Star Thief, and this one had the same great voice and pacing, and a thoroughly imagined, scientifically advanced world. I was grateful that YA meant no sex scenes, though in other ways, I found The Star Thief more sophisticated. For example, the female characters here butt heads a lot more than they did in The Star Thief. The romance here developed well enough, but there were occasionally notes that didn't ring true for me, mostly in the beginning. This was also true about Lexie's relationship with her parents; I understood that she was mad, but also, part of the definition of a parent's role is protecting his/her children when they are not yet old enough to understand how to do it themselves.
Overall, a quick and fun read, though not a new favorite. I'm eager to see what else Grey cooks up.
Ultraviolet Catastrophe was a fun, smart, well-paced read. The first book of hers I read was The Star Thief, and this one had the same great voice and pacing, and a thoroughly imagined, scientifically advanced world. I was grateful that YA meant no sex scenes, though in other ways, I found The Star Thief more sophisticated. For example, the female characters here butt heads a lot more than they did in The Star Thief. The romance here developed well enough, but there were occasionally notes that didn't ring true for me, mostly in the beginning. This was also true about Lexie's relationship with her parents; I understood that she was mad, but also, part of the definition of a parent's role is protecting his/her children when they are not yet old enough to understand how to do it themselves.
Overall, a quick and fun read, though not a new favorite. I'm eager to see what else Grey cooks up.
October 3, 2013
I read really good reviews about this, so for 4 dollars, I thought it was worth a look. (it's only available as an ebook).
Lexie discovers she's a genius who is being protected by her parents from bad bad people. When she ends up at the Genius school for geniuses (QT), it's a bit like Harry Potter for science nerds. Lots of wide eyed wonder and how can this be me? It's all pretty good, (if a little predictable).
There's the gorgeous guy, the scornful other girls and lots of secrets and mystery to be spilled and investigated. I had many questions as I read.
Once Lexie stopped taking the drugs, she still believed she wasn't super clever. She had moments of clarity, but not that overwhelming surge of 'aah now I know what I was missing'. It's annoying.
Why is so angry with her parents?
Why is Zilla friendly then not, smiling, then not... that was confusing. Might have had to do with Max, but it wasn't clear.
Oh, I will stop there. It's fun and action-y and it's great to see girls being portrayed as physics nerds.
Good if you like this sort of thing.
Lexie discovers she's a genius who is being protected by her parents from bad bad people. When she ends up at the Genius school for geniuses (QT), it's a bit like Harry Potter for science nerds. Lots of wide eyed wonder and how can this be me? It's all pretty good, (if a little predictable).
There's the gorgeous guy, the scornful other girls and lots of secrets and mystery to be spilled and investigated. I had many questions as I read.
Once Lexie stopped taking the drugs, she still believed she wasn't super clever. She had moments of clarity, but not that overwhelming surge of 'aah now I know what I was missing'. It's annoying.
Why is so angry with her parents?
Why is Zilla friendly then not, smiling, then not... that was confusing. Might have had to do with Max, but it wasn't clear.
Oh, I will stop there. It's fun and action-y and it's great to see girls being portrayed as physics nerds.
Good if you like this sort of thing.
February 25, 2022
Weeks after reading UVC I'm still thinking of it. Lexie proved to herself and her new friends that she is strong. I could relate to her. I love the relationships she has.
I was pulled in and on my seat at the first page wondering along with the MC about what's going on. I feel sad and angry along with her when she talked to her dad. I have to say I kind of can relate to her on that. I'm not just feeling the MC, but her mom too. I'm glad we have clues. There is some what of a love triangle that I love. I want to see how both and all relationships go. You can't forget all the projects going on. There are twists you wouldn't even expect. I almost cried during some parts. I feel like I'm a part of what they are doing. It's scary what they are doing and brave. It's sad to see people turn on you. Last but not least, you'll love the references.
I was pulled in and on my seat at the first page wondering along with the MC about what's going on. I feel sad and angry along with her when she talked to her dad. I have to say I kind of can relate to her on that. I'm not just feeling the MC, but her mom too. I'm glad we have clues. There is some what of a love triangle that I love. I want to see how both and all relationships go. You can't forget all the projects going on. There are twists you wouldn't even expect. I almost cried during some parts. I feel like I'm a part of what they are doing. It's scary what they are doing and brave. It's sad to see people turn on you. Last but not least, you'll love the references.
October 11, 2014
i love mysteries and thriller. What I like about this one is that I get every scientific fictional things or advance things in this book. Im already searing if it was a fact or scientific myth.
I really like the idea of the fictional town where everybody is a geniuses. I mean, wow even the cook is a freaking science genius. Perfect town, school and lab for geniuses. Hot resident (and humble) genius, I think I want to sign up. But me, i dont have any problem with Asher but I think I will be reading Hunchback of Notre Dame, I have grown tired of very handsome hero.
I really like the story but then I got another problem with Lexie on this one. I dont like that she hate her parents. Your parents only protect you, so I think thats why I give them 4.
Halfway through 2014, I havent read the book thats my canditate for my book of 2014. Im still looking and I cant wait.
I really like the idea of the fictional town where everybody is a geniuses. I mean, wow even the cook is a freaking science genius. Perfect town, school and lab for geniuses. Hot resident (and humble) genius, I think I want to sign up. But me, i dont have any problem with Asher but I think I will be reading Hunchback of Notre Dame, I have grown tired of very handsome hero.
I really like the story but then I got another problem with Lexie on this one. I dont like that she hate her parents. Your parents only protect you, so I think thats why I give them 4.
Halfway through 2014, I havent read the book thats my canditate for my book of 2014. Im still looking and I cant wait.
January 9, 2014
With a synopsis full of hugely intimidating words like “quantum electrodynamics”, we can’t help but enter into this story a bit wary, wondering if Lexie’s aptitude for the more mathematical sciences and her enormous IQ might leave us eating her mental dust, overwhelmed and struggling with what comes so easily to her. Despite the aforementioned daunting words tossed around on occasion however, Lexie’s story is an easy one to settle into, her hurt and confusion over her parents’ dishonesty slicing through any hesitancy we might have had before cracking the spine like butter, instantly having us up in arms and ready to do battle on her behalf...
Full review available at: http://supernaturalsnark.blogspot.com...
Full review available at: http://supernaturalsnark.blogspot.com...
March 9, 2015
I can't decide which was the best book I read in September - this one, or Two Roads by L.M. Augustine. And I read a lot of great books in September!
Basically, this book is amazing. And you're going to be missing out if you don't read it.
(For now, there's a longer review up on my blog.)
Basically, this book is amazing. And you're going to be missing out if you don't read it.
(For now, there's a longer review up on my blog.)
February 2, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I got lost with some of the science talk, but I really liked the story.
I loved Asher. Really liked Max too. I didn't care for Zella at first, but she grows on you.
"no need to be intimidated. I'm just the resident genius." Oh yeah, I wouldn't be intimidated by that at all.
"Ah, so you're a tease, too, then?" "Always" - this made me grin.
"But I have a feeling they're going to be doing more than watching us by the end of the night. They're going to be talking about us." *swoon*
It seems most of my favorite quotes are from Asher.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
I loved Asher. Really liked Max too. I didn't care for Zella at first, but she grows on you.
"no need to be intimidated. I'm just the resident genius." Oh yeah, I wouldn't be intimidated by that at all.
"Ah, so you're a tease, too, then?" "Always" - this made me grin.
"But I have a feeling they're going to be doing more than watching us by the end of the night. They're going to be talking about us." *swoon*
It seems most of my favorite quotes are from Asher.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
August 18, 2016
This is a really well-written book, but unfortunately it is totally predictable. Every time there is a problem, a very convenient solution will be offered. Every time. And I mean ex machina style, which made it hard for me to take this book/the MC's problems seriously and it destroyed any suspense. I thought at the beginning: It would be very convenient for the MC if that person were one of the bad guys. Guess what, he/she was one. Not saying who, but it's obvious.
So, I guess I recommend this book to YA lovers as it has a typical YA style (the good and the bad) and don't mind predictable choices.
So, I guess I recommend this book to YA lovers as it has a typical YA style (the good and the bad) and don't mind predictable choices.
Currently Reading
June 13, 2014I'm not digging this one as much as I thought I was. At first I liked it, and I was in to the storyline when I read the summary... But Asher kind of annoys me, Lexie kind of annoys me, and like 50 other details annoy me. (Where's the mom? Obvi her ruse to lead the bad guys away didn't work.. Why wasn't her almost kidnapping a bigger deal? When is she going to bust out of her shell and become super smart again? None of her unexplained knowledge has happened since she started at qt... Shouldn't they be happening more not less since she hadn't taken the meds in a month?) everything thing feels sort of one dimensional.. When there is no depth it's hard to lose myself in the story. :/
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews