What do you think?
Rate this book
New Bloods Trilogy #1
Awaken
Imagine a world devastated by The Shift. The cities left in ruins and the people all gone. Technology now nothing but the subject of folklore. Each and every day a struggle to survive. This is Tara's world.
Raised as a survivor in the harsh, lawless sand lands, Tara is no stranger to hardship. But when her village is destroyed and the young people taken by the merciless Prezedant, she quickly learns how much of a fighter she truly is.
Now on a quest to rescue her only remaining kin, she is joined by the most unlikely of companions. Together, this little band of travelers will face dangerous adversaries on their journey into the unknown. Nothing will ever be the same.
Raised as a survivor in the harsh, lawless sand lands, Tara is no stranger to hardship. But when her village is destroyed and the young people taken by the merciless Prezedant, she quickly learns how much of a fighter she truly is.
Now on a quest to rescue her only remaining kin, she is joined by the most unlikely of companions. Together, this little band of travelers will face dangerous adversaries on their journey into the unknown. Nothing will ever be the same.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2014
169 people are currently reading
589 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
February 23, 2018
I wrote it so I love it lol
February 3, 2017
In a dystopian world where food is scarce, water is precious and the land is nothing but brutal and unforgiving sand, an eighteen-year-old girl witnesses the mass murder of her town and that her life has been one big lie. Only the children survived, kidnapped for the brutal dictator that rules their lands. And. It. Was. All Because. Of. Her. Tara discovers she is a rare being, a “New Blood,” with powers that could change the world and forge a new destiny for her.
First, she will rescue the children. Her journey will bring her new friends, new fears, and the explosive debut of her rising powers. She only has the words of the man who took her in as a guide to where she must travel and who she must see, but not why…
Michelle Bryan takes us on a quest with Tara and her unlikely companions in AWAKEN, a tale of loss, pain, determination and discovery as one girl leaves her tiny slice of the world and journeys through a huge world filled with the unknown and the terrifying ugliness she has been spared. Will Tara find her true heritage or will she become a puppet for a mad ruler who seeks eternal rule and the vast powers of a chosen few?
Tara’s character is often difficult to like with her bullheaded refusal to accept who she is, her need to be the “leader” and her inability to admit an error. Her speech is often peppered with vulgarities that became tedious, far more than the other characters. It is the addition of her traveling companions that create the flesh over the bones of this fantasy from the quirky dwarf to the sweet young boy who looks to her for his safety to the hard-headed teen who adds the muscle to their group. Now that the foundation is set, the action looks to have great potential.
I received this copy from Michelle Bryan in exchange for my honest review.
Series: New Bloods - Book 1
Publisher: Aelurus Publishing
Expected Release Date: Feb. 1st, 2017
Genre: YA Dystopian/ Urban Fantasy
Print Length: 232 pages
Available from: Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2jo2lHO
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MY5C9LE/
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/en/ebook/awaken-41
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
First, she will rescue the children. Her journey will bring her new friends, new fears, and the explosive debut of her rising powers. She only has the words of the man who took her in as a guide to where she must travel and who she must see, but not why…
Michelle Bryan takes us on a quest with Tara and her unlikely companions in AWAKEN, a tale of loss, pain, determination and discovery as one girl leaves her tiny slice of the world and journeys through a huge world filled with the unknown and the terrifying ugliness she has been spared. Will Tara find her true heritage or will she become a puppet for a mad ruler who seeks eternal rule and the vast powers of a chosen few?
Tara’s character is often difficult to like with her bullheaded refusal to accept who she is, her need to be the “leader” and her inability to admit an error. Her speech is often peppered with vulgarities that became tedious, far more than the other characters. It is the addition of her traveling companions that create the flesh over the bones of this fantasy from the quirky dwarf to the sweet young boy who looks to her for his safety to the hard-headed teen who adds the muscle to their group. Now that the foundation is set, the action looks to have great potential.
I received this copy from Michelle Bryan in exchange for my honest review.
Series: New Bloods - Book 1
Publisher: Aelurus Publishing
Expected Release Date: Feb. 1st, 2017
Genre: YA Dystopian/ Urban Fantasy
Print Length: 232 pages
Available from: Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2jo2lHO
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MY5C9LE/
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/en/ebook/awaken-41
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
December 6, 2017
I am the world's worst person to judge a book by its cover, meaning that if the cover is cheesy or doesn't catch my eye I don't read it. Kinda like when you meet someone for the first time, you know first impressions stick. Same with book covers to me. So I started this book hesitantly, not sure if I would like it. Let me be the first to say I liked it and then some!
My reaction when finishing this book:
Awaken: New Bloods Trilogy by Michelle Bryan is the story of a young woman, just turned 18 living in a world after "The Shift." The land is like a desert, nothing grows, water and food are scarce, and to her there is just her small community. But on her "born day," tragedy strikes in the form of iron monsters killing all the adults and taking all the young'uns except Tara who was hidden by her Gra'da before the attacks. Now it is up to her to find what's left of her kin.
The characters in this story are brilliant! I loved Tara and her way of speaking. She was blunt and straight to the point, no beating around the bush, just honesty. Tara is a strong-willed (stubborn) character. I thought she was a perfect cross between Katniss Everdeen and Rogue from X-men, in fact while reading this is what I pictured:
Tara is even stubborn as she learns about being a "New Blood" or what she calls a mutie, but this endeared her to me even more. She is a relatable character especially as she learns that not all she's been told growing up in her small community is true.
The other characters she meets along the way - Finn, Tater, and Jax - I also adore. Finn is a boy around 12 with a "demon cat" as a pet who's community is destroyed the same as Tara's. He's high-spirited, inquisitive, and daring, and once he learns that Tara is out to find her kin, he argues to tag along. Tater is a middle-aged, "half-man" trader who comes upon the two one night in the dead woods and decides to take them with him to Littlepass. He is funny and knowledgable about the world outside Tara's community, but I wasn't too sure if I could trust him. Jax joins their party after they've been captured by Raiders. He is closer to Tara's age and provides a bit of a love interest. This is not your typical YA romance you see in most books today which was refreshing. It's subtle and I enjoyed that.
The world building is amazing. Imagine a world that is so far into the future that cars, technology, everything that makes us modern today is folk tale and legend to Tara. It was incredible! The Iron Bones chapter is amazing to me, seeing the ruins of a city through the eyes of someone who has never seen the buildings before, such a great feat for an author to describe. I loved it!
So why four stars and not five? Well, for me, I felt that the story dragged after the initial chapter. There was the hook of seeing as Tara did her community destroyed by the metal monsters, but after that it took a while for the flow of the story to pick up for me. Not that I didn't still enjoy it, but I wanted it to go a little faster. I didn't need half a chapter describing how lonely she was walking through the sandlands. Once I hit about the half way mark, the plot of the story really got my attention and I didn't sit it down til I finished it!
If I was not told, I would never have known that this was Michelle Bryan's first novel. Little to no grammar issues that I found, the characters were well-developed, the world-building is amazing, and she left me wanting more! I have so many questions, the biggest being what was the Shift that caused this dystopian universe. If you enjoy YA dystopian with some sci-fi/fantasy thrown into the mix, you should really get a copy of this book. I personally can't wait for book two!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My reaction when finishing this book:
Awaken: New Bloods Trilogy by Michelle Bryan is the story of a young woman, just turned 18 living in a world after "The Shift." The land is like a desert, nothing grows, water and food are scarce, and to her there is just her small community. But on her "born day," tragedy strikes in the form of iron monsters killing all the adults and taking all the young'uns except Tara who was hidden by her Gra'da before the attacks. Now it is up to her to find what's left of her kin.
The characters in this story are brilliant! I loved Tara and her way of speaking. She was blunt and straight to the point, no beating around the bush, just honesty. Tara is a strong-willed (stubborn) character. I thought she was a perfect cross between Katniss Everdeen and Rogue from X-men, in fact while reading this is what I pictured:
Tara is even stubborn as she learns about being a "New Blood" or what she calls a mutie, but this endeared her to me even more. She is a relatable character especially as she learns that not all she's been told growing up in her small community is true.
The other characters she meets along the way - Finn, Tater, and Jax - I also adore. Finn is a boy around 12 with a "demon cat" as a pet who's community is destroyed the same as Tara's. He's high-spirited, inquisitive, and daring, and once he learns that Tara is out to find her kin, he argues to tag along. Tater is a middle-aged, "half-man" trader who comes upon the two one night in the dead woods and decides to take them with him to Littlepass. He is funny and knowledgable about the world outside Tara's community, but I wasn't too sure if I could trust him. Jax joins their party after they've been captured by Raiders. He is closer to Tara's age and provides a bit of a love interest. This is not your typical YA romance you see in most books today which was refreshing. It's subtle and I enjoyed that.
The world building is amazing. Imagine a world that is so far into the future that cars, technology, everything that makes us modern today is folk tale and legend to Tara. It was incredible! The Iron Bones chapter is amazing to me, seeing the ruins of a city through the eyes of someone who has never seen the buildings before, such a great feat for an author to describe. I loved it!
So why four stars and not five? Well, for me, I felt that the story dragged after the initial chapter. There was the hook of seeing as Tara did her community destroyed by the metal monsters, but after that it took a while for the flow of the story to pick up for me. Not that I didn't still enjoy it, but I wanted it to go a little faster. I didn't need half a chapter describing how lonely she was walking through the sandlands. Once I hit about the half way mark, the plot of the story really got my attention and I didn't sit it down til I finished it!
If I was not told, I would never have known that this was Michelle Bryan's first novel. Little to no grammar issues that I found, the characters were well-developed, the world-building is amazing, and she left me wanting more! I have so many questions, the biggest being what was the Shift that caused this dystopian universe. If you enjoy YA dystopian with some sci-fi/fantasy thrown into the mix, you should really get a copy of this book. I personally can't wait for book two!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2017
Well, this was an entertaining book indeed.
The beginning got me intrigued. It took me to the world a lot different from nowadays world. For one, it was far in the future and people lived there in a way far from ours, kind of primitive and yet with some secrets and hints of something more than what you could see at first. Also, there was this interesting dialect. Words like "nuthin' ", "young'uns", "girlie" to name a few. Well, maybe it's just me not getting the particularities of English, but I enjoyed a lot reading story written in it. It somehow made it more real.
The story begins with the heroine getting in the middle of events that changed her life from what was known and ordinary to the unknown. Her journey to the places unseen and unthinkable begun from that point. The journey to find the truth about the world she lived in and about who she really was. The journey with the goal to find and free the ones she cared about. The heroine Tara had both, strenghts and flaws, she was easy to relate and to like. I enjoyed reading about her quest, all the challenges she had to face, the friends she found on her way, and the battles (inner and outer ones) she had to deal with. I was intrigued to find with her some new information about her and about her world. There was tension waving up and down througout the story. It kept me wanting for more. And when the book was finished I wasn't satisfied. Well, it's good thing the story hasn't ended yet.
I have received the book free from the David Estes Fans and YA Book Lovers Unite! group and the author in exchange for a honest review.
The beginning got me intrigued. It took me to the world a lot different from nowadays world. For one, it was far in the future and people lived there in a way far from ours, kind of primitive and yet with some secrets and hints of something more than what you could see at first. Also, there was this interesting dialect. Words like "nuthin' ", "young'uns", "girlie" to name a few. Well, maybe it's just me not getting the particularities of English, but I enjoyed a lot reading story written in it. It somehow made it more real.
The story begins with the heroine getting in the middle of events that changed her life from what was known and ordinary to the unknown. Her journey to the places unseen and unthinkable begun from that point. The journey to find the truth about the world she lived in and about who she really was. The journey with the goal to find and free the ones she cared about. The heroine Tara had both, strenghts and flaws, she was easy to relate and to like. I enjoyed reading about her quest, all the challenges she had to face, the friends she found on her way, and the battles (inner and outer ones) she had to deal with. I was intrigued to find with her some new information about her and about her world. There was tension waving up and down througout the story. It kept me wanting for more. And when the book was finished I wasn't satisfied. Well, it's good thing the story hasn't ended yet.
I have received the book free from the David Estes Fans and YA Book Lovers Unite! group and the author in exchange for a honest review.
April 1, 2014
The first thing that I could say when finishing this is wow. Michelle Bryan has created this wonderful world that is full of danger, hope, loneliness, friendship, despair and possibly love. And she has done it in a way that is so vivid and intoxicating. The descriptive passages create places that are both familiar and so foreign and yet always utterly believable. I was surprised by how much I was drawn to this world and to the characters that occupy it. Tara is a force of nature. She is so raw and complex. While at times you just want to shake her for her stubborn nature (and perhaps selfishness) you spend most of the time aching for her pains and yearnings to understand what is happening to her. I know that many people will see in her the same strong female portrayal found in other dystopian novels such as Hunger Games and Divergent, and I definitely think they are right. She definitely has the strength and moxie to become a great hero. I would say that this also reminds of some of the best high fantasy novels, such as the worlds created by Tolkien or Terry Brooks in its epic nature. I adored Jax, Finn, Cat, and Tater - they all provide such heart and comic relief. All are so cleverly written. The only complaint I might have is that when things are finally revealed it comes out in such a rush that it feels a bit forced. Other than though, I thought that was just the right amount of magic, adventure, and reality. I cannot wait to read the next installment in this series.
February 1, 2015
Awaken is the story of a young girl named Tara who suddenly finds herself alone in the world after her entire village is attacked. Her family are all dead, her friends taken by the mysterious metal machines. She is the only one left.
Before he died, her grada told her to find a town called Littlepass and find a woman named Lily. That's all she has left to hold onto. So she sets off, into the dry and arid sandlands with one purpose: to find Lily.
From the moment Tara leaves her hometown, I was hooked on the action and drama that enfolded around her. How can one girl get into so much trouble, simply by searching for Lily? Surprisingly, a lot.
The world the author built became stronger the further into the book I got, and it left me wanting more. Her descriptions of the 'muties' and creatures they came across was well written and they were easily imagined in my mind.
This book did have two of my pet hates though: Writing in accent, and really long chapters. Having said that, the story line was so interesting, I was able to put these preferences aside and enjoy the book.
I can't wait to find out what happens next to Tara, and I really want to know where I can get myself a Jax ;)
Before he died, her grada told her to find a town called Littlepass and find a woman named Lily. That's all she has left to hold onto. So she sets off, into the dry and arid sandlands with one purpose: to find Lily.
From the moment Tara leaves her hometown, I was hooked on the action and drama that enfolded around her. How can one girl get into so much trouble, simply by searching for Lily? Surprisingly, a lot.
The world the author built became stronger the further into the book I got, and it left me wanting more. Her descriptions of the 'muties' and creatures they came across was well written and they were easily imagined in my mind.
This book did have two of my pet hates though: Writing in accent, and really long chapters. Having said that, the story line was so interesting, I was able to put these preferences aside and enjoy the book.
I can't wait to find out what happens next to Tara, and I really want to know where I can get myself a Jax ;)
September 28, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say, I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved Michelle's concept of this dystopian world, I loved getting to know the characters and learning about their world they try to survive in. I really enjoyed how the author wrote the book, as well, it threw me at first trying to figure out if it was a typo or not but it was not. Michelle wrote this book in a new way that I've not seen before and I enjoyed the way she did it. It allowed me to really get the feel of the main character, Tara..feel like she's talking in my own head! I know that's a little vague, but you just have to read for yourself!
I recommend giving this book a try...I can't wait for more in this series!!
I have to say, I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved Michelle's concept of this dystopian world, I loved getting to know the characters and learning about their world they try to survive in. I really enjoyed how the author wrote the book, as well, it threw me at first trying to figure out if it was a typo or not but it was not. Michelle wrote this book in a new way that I've not seen before and I enjoyed the way she did it. It allowed me to really get the feel of the main character, Tara..feel like she's talking in my own head! I know that's a little vague, but you just have to read for yourself!
I recommend giving this book a try...I can't wait for more in this series!!
February 4, 2015
I absolutely loved it. It is unique. The way it is written, the words that are used. Once I started I couldn't stop. I love Tara's character, she is strong and resilient. I also love the hint of romance between Tara and Jax, though adding Ben into the equation will make it an interesting triangle. I laughed and I cried and I was truly upset when I finished reading it! I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.
July 30, 2015
Grabbed me from the very beginning
This book was fantastic. It has some of the typical elements of a dystopian/post-apocalyptic storyline, but it's not a "typical" story. The unique details of the world Michelle Bryan has created are fascinating and the twists and turns of the plot are gripping. Every time I thought I knew where things were going, I was surprised by a new development. I can't wait for the next book!
This book was fantastic. It has some of the typical elements of a dystopian/post-apocalyptic storyline, but it's not a "typical" story. The unique details of the world Michelle Bryan has created are fascinating and the twists and turns of the plot are gripping. Every time I thought I knew where things were going, I was surprised by a new development. I can't wait for the next book!
April 17, 2014
2.5 stars.
I would never normally have picked up this book but upon reading the synopsis, it intrigued me and so I decided to give it a chance. It is set in a dystopian world where all our creature comforts (cars, electricity, supermarkets etc.) have been obliterated during the Shift, an event that happened hundreds of years ago.
Tara grows up in a small community, cut off from the rest of society with little knowledge of the outside world. Her sheltered life is brutally cut short when men in metal monsters shatter the peaceful village life her community created. With nothing left and nothing to lose, Tara sets out on a desperate journey across the sand lands to hitherto unknown (to her at least) lands. She will do anything to protect her kin and those that were not murdered but taken, she is determined to save.
I liked Tara. She had a strong, independent streak, was stubborn but had a big heart. She reminds me a little of other strong female leads such as Katniss Everdeen. Another plus was that the supporting characters served to enhance this tale with their banter and unique personalities. There were subtle undertones of a romance blossoming but nothing too obvious. Good thing because I'm a little bored of insta-love and romances where the characters are so perfect for each other it is inconceivable that they could have ever ended up with anyone else.
I enjoyed Tara's descriptions of things that are common place in our society but are strange and other-worldly in this book. The dead city description was especially interesting. I'd never thought of skyscrapers as iron bones before but it captures the coldness and barrenness of the city.
So why the lower rating? Well, to me three stars means it was a book that I liked and two stars means it was ok. This book fell somewhere in between and although I enjoyed it, there were a few things that stopped me from giving it a higher rating. After the explosive beginning it lagged for the next chapter or so and I found my attention waning. Also feeling like I was smarter than Tara caused me to feel slightly frustrated with her at times. I understand that she hasn't seen anything like electric lights or vehicles before but she took a long time putting two and two together before eventually figuring out that her gra'da had not always lived in Rivercross. Or that she's been lied to her whole life. I just would have liked it if she was a little quicker on the uptake.
Finally, the resolution of issues through deus ex machina. It was almost as though the characters had been given a get out of jail free card (literally) which took a little of the tension out of it for me. I'd have liked to have seen them use a little more initiative and perhaps solved problems on their own without always relying on outside help.
Regardless, the story was not a bad read. It did throw a couple of curveballs my way and I do want to find out what happens next so I might check out the next in the series. The characters are the perfect balance for this type of novel which you are guaranteed to like, if not love. I'd recommend it to fans of dystopian stories, a bit of the paranormal and slow burning romances.
*This ebook was received in return for an honest review*
I would never normally have picked up this book but upon reading the synopsis, it intrigued me and so I decided to give it a chance. It is set in a dystopian world where all our creature comforts (cars, electricity, supermarkets etc.) have been obliterated during the Shift, an event that happened hundreds of years ago.
Tara grows up in a small community, cut off from the rest of society with little knowledge of the outside world. Her sheltered life is brutally cut short when men in metal monsters shatter the peaceful village life her community created. With nothing left and nothing to lose, Tara sets out on a desperate journey across the sand lands to hitherto unknown (to her at least) lands. She will do anything to protect her kin and those that were not murdered but taken, she is determined to save.
I liked Tara. She had a strong, independent streak, was stubborn but had a big heart. She reminds me a little of other strong female leads such as Katniss Everdeen. Another plus was that the supporting characters served to enhance this tale with their banter and unique personalities. There were subtle undertones of a romance blossoming but nothing too obvious. Good thing because I'm a little bored of insta-love and romances where the characters are so perfect for each other it is inconceivable that they could have ever ended up with anyone else.
I enjoyed Tara's descriptions of things that are common place in our society but are strange and other-worldly in this book. The dead city description was especially interesting. I'd never thought of skyscrapers as iron bones before but it captures the coldness and barrenness of the city.
So why the lower rating? Well, to me three stars means it was a book that I liked and two stars means it was ok. This book fell somewhere in between and although I enjoyed it, there were a few things that stopped me from giving it a higher rating. After the explosive beginning it lagged for the next chapter or so and I found my attention waning. Also feeling like I was smarter than Tara caused me to feel slightly frustrated with her at times. I understand that she hasn't seen anything like electric lights or vehicles before but she took a long time putting two and two together before eventually figuring out that her gra'da had not always lived in Rivercross. Or that she's been lied to her whole life. I just would have liked it if she was a little quicker on the uptake.
Finally, the resolution of issues through deus ex machina. It was almost as though the characters had been given a get out of jail free card (literally) which took a little of the tension out of it for me. I'd have liked to have seen them use a little more initiative and perhaps solved problems on their own without always relying on outside help.
Regardless, the story was not a bad read. It did throw a couple of curveballs my way and I do want to find out what happens next so I might check out the next in the series. The characters are the perfect balance for this type of novel which you are guaranteed to like, if not love. I'd recommend it to fans of dystopian stories, a bit of the paranormal and slow burning romances.
*This ebook was received in return for an honest review*
March 12, 2014
after The Shift, the world was left in despair and people struggled to survive the harsh sand lands. Tara lived in Rivercross, where ten shacks were built with whatever material scavenged from the ground. the 25 or so people that lived here became family, looking out for each other. Tara had been picked up by Gra'da since she was a baby and he took care of her ever since. she woke up on her 18th born day, looking forward to the evening celebration that Rivercross threw for her. little did she expect to find men in black metal monsters moving across their land, destroying Rivercross, killing the old folks and taking the young ones with them. she was spared when Gra'da hid her after she lose consciousness.
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. the accent used in the writing was something different compared to what i was familiar with. fortunately it wasn't too much for me to not being able to enjoy the book to its fullest. the trio formed by Tara, Finn and Cat was an unexpectedly comfortable combination. their journey was so engaging that i found myself smiling or frowning along easily. i was most relieved to finally be free from reading about cheesy romance that seemed to always be circling the two main characters in most books. the plot was so fast paced that i found myself completely hooked and desperately tried to slow down my reading, afraid of missing even one word would resulted to not knowing part of the story. as surprised and unexpected as i was with the book, i was thoroughly thrilled with every turn of event, and satisfied with the goosebumps it gave me. i was simply overwhelmed with every idea and can't help looking forward to the second installment.
my review: here
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. the accent used in the writing was something different compared to what i was familiar with. fortunately it wasn't too much for me to not being able to enjoy the book to its fullest. the trio formed by Tara, Finn and Cat was an unexpectedly comfortable combination. their journey was so engaging that i found myself smiling or frowning along easily. i was most relieved to finally be free from reading about cheesy romance that seemed to always be circling the two main characters in most books. the plot was so fast paced that i found myself completely hooked and desperately tried to slow down my reading, afraid of missing even one word would resulted to not knowing part of the story. as surprised and unexpected as i was with the book, i was thoroughly thrilled with every turn of event, and satisfied with the goosebumps it gave me. i was simply overwhelmed with every idea and can't help looking forward to the second installment.
my review: here
March 16, 2017
Prepare to be taken on a dangerous journey of self discovery, the search for answers, and the awakening of a new power. Awaken gives us a "Wizard of Oz" like story with the introduction of a character as strong and as symbolic as the "Mockingjay." You will be inspired and impressed by our heroine Tara. Your heart will melt for the lovable Finn. You will feel wonder and suspicion toward Tater, and will fall in love with Jax.
I was immediately drawn in to the story by Tara's connection with Grada and Rivercross. With the style of writing in the book, I felt like I was in Tara's mind, experiencing and feeling everything she went through. I was heartbroken in losing Grada and Rivercross and determined to find answers alongside our heroine. When Tara comes across Finn, I couldn't help but fall in love with him and look at him like a little brother. Tater made for an interesting "jester" of sorts in the story. I was suspicious of him and yet was intrigued by his story telling and humorous manner. I enjoyed how Tara's power awakened each time she felt heavy stress, fear, or anger. It seemed so real and powerful! Upon meeting Jax, I first felt tension and anger toward him, but as the story goes on and his true character is revealed, I found myself falling for him and secretly wanting there to be some sort of romance there.
The journey made by these characters is intense and dangerous. The obstacles faced and the surprising twists really keep you on the edge of your seat. I cannot wait to read the next book and find out what happens when Tara finally embraces her fate and her power and decides to go after the Prezedant.
Thank you to Net Galley for providing this e-book in exchange for my honest review.
I was immediately drawn in to the story by Tara's connection with Grada and Rivercross. With the style of writing in the book, I felt like I was in Tara's mind, experiencing and feeling everything she went through. I was heartbroken in losing Grada and Rivercross and determined to find answers alongside our heroine. When Tara comes across Finn, I couldn't help but fall in love with him and look at him like a little brother. Tater made for an interesting "jester" of sorts in the story. I was suspicious of him and yet was intrigued by his story telling and humorous manner. I enjoyed how Tara's power awakened each time she felt heavy stress, fear, or anger. It seemed so real and powerful! Upon meeting Jax, I first felt tension and anger toward him, but as the story goes on and his true character is revealed, I found myself falling for him and secretly wanting there to be some sort of romance there.
The journey made by these characters is intense and dangerous. The obstacles faced and the surprising twists really keep you on the edge of your seat. I cannot wait to read the next book and find out what happens when Tara finally embraces her fate and her power and decides to go after the Prezedant.
Thank you to Net Galley for providing this e-book in exchange for my honest review.
June 28, 2014
I bought this book as part of a review swap with the author.
Another young adult (maybe?) dystopian book. Becoming my genre? Maybe (hah!) I was actually intrigued by this book before the author approached me, so I was totally on-board with moving it up the to-read queue.
The book is told from the perspective of Tara, a sheltered girl whose entire village is slaughtered by some terrifying force. Because the book is told through Tara's eyes, the reader knows more than she understands, especially as more futuristic remnants come into play. She takes up with a couple of travel companions as she tries to fulfill her grandfather's dying wish that she see a lady named "Lily" in the city - a young boy and his devil cat, an overcompensating storyteller, and a brooding young man who will most likely end up being her romantic interest after a while. As they get closer to the city, they begin to uncover the atrocities that the leader of this dystopia have wrought, and Tara begins to realize that she's the key to it all.
I really liked the characters in this book - the four main protagonists were fully developed and of their own minds, and I enjoy an author who can slip between slang and flowery language depending on who is speaking. I thought the slow discovery of this young girl's powers was excellently executed. I found myself midway through the book harkening back to a line earlier, something I really like.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of questy-style dystopian novels, and will definitely pick up the sequel when it comes out.
Another young adult (maybe?) dystopian book. Becoming my genre? Maybe (hah!) I was actually intrigued by this book before the author approached me, so I was totally on-board with moving it up the to-read queue.
The book is told from the perspective of Tara, a sheltered girl whose entire village is slaughtered by some terrifying force. Because the book is told through Tara's eyes, the reader knows more than she understands, especially as more futuristic remnants come into play. She takes up with a couple of travel companions as she tries to fulfill her grandfather's dying wish that she see a lady named "Lily" in the city - a young boy and his devil cat, an overcompensating storyteller, and a brooding young man who will most likely end up being her romantic interest after a while. As they get closer to the city, they begin to uncover the atrocities that the leader of this dystopia have wrought, and Tara begins to realize that she's the key to it all.
I really liked the characters in this book - the four main protagonists were fully developed and of their own minds, and I enjoy an author who can slip between slang and flowery language depending on who is speaking. I thought the slow discovery of this young girl's powers was excellently executed. I found myself midway through the book harkening back to a line earlier, something I really like.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of questy-style dystopian novels, and will definitely pick up the sequel when it comes out.
March 21, 2014
Firstly I have to say that when I first started reading this book, I wasn't into it. I thought it was much too much like the hunger games. I can say now, I was wrong.
Awaken is a story about Tara, a young girl who on her 18th birthday loose her family to tragedy and has her best friend and a few other close kids taken away by "Metal Monsters" something she's never seen before...
The story takes place is a desolate time where people live in ruins, giverened by the Prezedant, who is told to be immortal and beyond evil.
Tara must go to Littlepass to save her kin. But along the way with the help of a few unlikely charectors, she soon finds out she's not the average 18 year old.
Like I said, at first I worried that it was much yo much like the hunger games, but I was totally wrong. The story is refreshing. The chare fors are lovable and interesting in there own right. I also like the fact that the books seems to be writing in a different dialect. In my head them sound almost Irish. I think this come from the suthie living in Atlantic Canada where most of the people have Irish heratige.
All in all I liked Awaken and will definitely read the other books in the trilogy to see how the sorry ends.
Awaken is a story about Tara, a young girl who on her 18th birthday loose her family to tragedy and has her best friend and a few other close kids taken away by "Metal Monsters" something she's never seen before...
The story takes place is a desolate time where people live in ruins, giverened by the Prezedant, who is told to be immortal and beyond evil.
Tara must go to Littlepass to save her kin. But along the way with the help of a few unlikely charectors, she soon finds out she's not the average 18 year old.
Like I said, at first I worried that it was much yo much like the hunger games, but I was totally wrong. The story is refreshing. The chare fors are lovable and interesting in there own right. I also like the fact that the books seems to be writing in a different dialect. In my head them sound almost Irish. I think this come from the suthie living in Atlantic Canada where most of the people have Irish heratige.
All in all I liked Awaken and will definitely read the other books in the trilogy to see how the sorry ends.
October 1, 2015
There are many novels that create a future that turns the wheels in a person's brain. It makes you wonder, could this really happen? This book is an original take that keeps you drawn in. I wanted to call in sick to work so I could finish it (I didn't though :/). The story follows Tara who is left alone after her village is attacked with one message: find Lily. She also sets out to free her kin that she believes to be taken. Along the way, she meets Finn and Tater. These two unlikely companions grow on her and give her that sense of friendship back. Their path isn't easy though, especially when raiders are involved and Tara finds out that she's a rare human known as a New Blood. Enter Jax, a hot-headed guy who hates New Bloods. Him and Tara clash immediately with their stubborn attitudes. I have to say that Tara is a kick-butt heroine that inspires me. I loved watching Michelle's characters grow with the help of each other. The bonds that were formed may have been between people that were so different, but they are strong enough to face the challenges head on. I look forward to reading the second novel and wish time would pass faster so I find out what happens. If this book isn't in your to-be-read pile, then do yourself a favor and add it. You won't want to miss this.
April 10, 2014
Awaken: New Bloods Trilogy reminded me of a couple of things;
Blood Red Road - Quite a few things happened in Awaken that happened in that. It felt like i was rereading it at some points!
The movie, Tangled - One thing was very similar to what happened in the movie.
The characters were okay, but i can't say that i really liked any of them.
They just never stood out for me.
The pacing was quite slow, and i just couldn't get interested in the story.
Overall, very similar to Blood Red Road which i didn't like, so i didn't like this much either.
If you're a fan of that book, you'll probably like this.
Blood Red Road - Quite a few things happened in Awaken that happened in that. It felt like i was rereading it at some points!
The movie, Tangled - One thing was very similar to what happened in the movie.
The characters were okay, but i can't say that i really liked any of them.
They just never stood out for me.
The pacing was quite slow, and i just couldn't get interested in the story.
Overall, very similar to Blood Red Road which i didn't like, so i didn't like this much either.
If you're a fan of that book, you'll probably like this.
December 26, 2015
Awaken is one of those books that festers in the back of your mind, refusing to go away. This story is so different than any story I've read before that it's hard to put words to my feelings.
Tara is quite the character. She's strong and witty, and I related to her from the very beginning. She’s been sheltered her entire life which leads to her naivety, and you want to reach through your kindle and guide her along. But she's smart in her decisions and doesn't really need my consoling.
I like the world the author created. It's unique and wonderfully written. That's the part that stayed with me after reading the story. Some of the characteristics and characters in general were so well written that I still keep thinking about them.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes dystopian or even paranormal books. And I'll definitely be moving on to the next story.
Tara is quite the character. She's strong and witty, and I related to her from the very beginning. She’s been sheltered her entire life which leads to her naivety, and you want to reach through your kindle and guide her along. But she's smart in her decisions and doesn't really need my consoling.
I like the world the author created. It's unique and wonderfully written. That's the part that stayed with me after reading the story. Some of the characteristics and characters in general were so well written that I still keep thinking about them.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes dystopian or even paranormal books. And I'll definitely be moving on to the next story.
June 20, 2017
Awaken by Michelle Bryon is a sci-fi and fantasy and teens and ya read.
The world is broken. Tara is alone. But within her a power grows.
An absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. Hooked from page one. Loved Tara Finn and Jax. Loved how Michelle described the place. It felt like I was there with them. Can't wait to read more from Michelle Bryon. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
The world is broken. Tara is alone. But within her a power grows.
An absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. Hooked from page one. Loved Tara Finn and Jax. Loved how Michelle described the place. It felt like I was there with them. Can't wait to read more from Michelle Bryon. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
June 9, 2016
Was given a chance to review this book by the author and all I can say is I really enjoyed it the characters in the book are all well written. It's a YA book but like me adults will enjoy it as well.... Going to jump right in and read the next book in the series. For me it was up there with the hunger games let's see what happens next.
Well done great book.
Well done great book.
August 19, 2014
I was given this book free for my honest review.
Fantastic read! I was truly pleased with the start of this series. My only problem and it is a me thing is that Tara was kinda wishy washy. She relied too much on everyone elses opinions versus using her gut
Fantastic read! I was truly pleased with the start of this series. My only problem and it is a me thing is that Tara was kinda wishy washy. She relied too much on everyone elses opinions versus using her gut
February 24, 2014
Great story, can't wait until book Two!
June 6, 2017
Loved!!! It is literally a clash of Scorch Trials and Red Queen, but definitely her own novel! It was my first read by Michelle, and I can't wait to read more!
February 10, 2018
Grabs hold and doesn't let go
This novel starts out kind of slow - small family/tribe unit trying to survive in a ruined world. The writing style is first-person and uses a regional dialect of English (the author manages to maintain the same dialect through the entire novel).
As the story progresses the author drops hints about how the planet ended up in the shape it is in and develops the readers understanding slowly via the protagonists internal monologue and interactions with others.
As the story progresses the protagonist - who starts out as a competent and strong young woman (booyah!), is thrown into various situations that stretch that competence and tosses in some some unexpected personal oddness that she has to deal with.
This novel grabs your attention in a slow manner and builds to the end. Thankfully this is just the first novel and I expect the following novels to expose more detailed world building (and back story) and development of the protagonist!
Simply put - a great story!
This novel starts out kind of slow - small family/tribe unit trying to survive in a ruined world. The writing style is first-person and uses a regional dialect of English (the author manages to maintain the same dialect through the entire novel).
As the story progresses the author drops hints about how the planet ended up in the shape it is in and develops the readers understanding slowly via the protagonists internal monologue and interactions with others.
As the story progresses the protagonist - who starts out as a competent and strong young woman (booyah!), is thrown into various situations that stretch that competence and tosses in some some unexpected personal oddness that she has to deal with.
This novel grabs your attention in a slow manner and builds to the end. Thankfully this is just the first novel and I expect the following novels to expose more detailed world building (and back story) and development of the protagonist!
Simply put - a great story!
August 16, 2017
Not being biased here, but I love the main Characters name... haha :D
I see a lot of my personality in the main character. I love how realistic it is to the point of her not wanting to do a certain thing.
The pace of the book is steady and not too fast or too slow.
I am deffo gonna buy Book 2 asap. :)
I see a lot of my personality in the main character. I love how realistic it is to the point of her not wanting to do a certain thing.
The pace of the book is steady and not too fast or too slow.
I am deffo gonna buy Book 2 asap. :)
September 4, 2018
Awaken
Mixed feelings on this one. I am interested in this story, however I have issues with the main character and many of her choices. At times, I actually want to throttle her or slap her at the very least. She doesn't need to worry about enemies. At times, she is her own enemy. I worry she is going to get herself or someone close to her killed. She's been thru hell, and I feel empathy for her loss. I just wish she could be less self absorbed and grateful for the people in her life. I have enjoyed watching this little group of people become a family of sorts. I am going to try the next installment. Hoping for a bit more intelligence.
Mixed feelings on this one. I am interested in this story, however I have issues with the main character and many of her choices. At times, I actually want to throttle her or slap her at the very least. She doesn't need to worry about enemies. At times, she is her own enemy. I worry she is going to get herself or someone close to her killed. She's been thru hell, and I feel empathy for her loss. I just wish she could be less self absorbed and grateful for the people in her life. I have enjoyed watching this little group of people become a family of sorts. I am going to try the next installment. Hoping for a bit more intelligence.
July 17, 2022
Not a bad read, though it is very reminiscent of other books.
For my clean readers: full of language, some of it altered. Violence. Descriptive gore. Implied sexual conduct when they stand outside a brothel.
For my clean readers: full of language, some of it altered. Violence. Descriptive gore. Implied sexual conduct when they stand outside a brothel.
February 1, 2018
Could not put it down
Could not put it down. A for sure page turner. Full of action. Strong characters. Ready to read the next one to see what Tara does next
Could not put it down. A for sure page turner. Full of action. Strong characters. Ready to read the next one to see what Tara does next
August 6, 2017
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
This was a ok story.
My only problem was it just seemed to plod along.
Even when it was supposed to be exciting it still seemed to plod along at a slow pace.
Maybe it was me but I just did not gel with the story like I thought I would.
This was a ok story.
My only problem was it just seemed to plod along.
Even when it was supposed to be exciting it still seemed to plod along at a slow pace.
Maybe it was me but I just did not gel with the story like I thought I would.
April 13, 2014
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I totally made a map of Tara's Journey and I have to figure out how to post it on here. It was really fun making it while I was reading.
Rivercross is a village of 25 people living in 10 shanties. Tara and her Gran'da, Shelly and Thomas have 2 children Thomas and Jane, Old Molly is the Seer, Miz Emma and her son Ben, and lastly Lou was the Whiskey maker. It was Tara's born day celebration(18 adult age) and she was close with Ben who was only 17. The only other kids were Thomas and Jane. A sickness came and leveled out the population, Gran'da was the only one who lived through the sickness.
Even before the sickness was The Shift. A Great War that killed everyone off or changed them into muties (deformed people). Everything was destroyed and mostly all that's left has been scavenged or is in ruins.
RIvercross was dry, barren, dusty, hot and all the water had dried up. The game was getting scarce as they hadn't seem a wild hog in 3 years. They mostly ate dirt dogs.
Tara was different though, she had black hair with a white stripe down each side of her skull. She also could feel the earth, her surroundings, the dirt ,but she didn't tell anyone or they'd think she was crazy or a mutie. She was good at hunting since her Gran'da had fell off the roof and hurt his leg. She could make traps, use an iron shooter (they ran out of ammo), a bow and arrow and carried a hunting knife and a water skin. Her Gran'da had taught her to fend for herself, and even tried to teach her to read and write a little. (In the book Tara the narrator talks in her native dialogue).
Tara woke to a bowlful of berries and a neck rap from her Gran'da. Ben met her while she was out hunting and gave her a black plastic rose necklace he had scavenged that matched Tara's hair. Tara and Ben talked of leaving because he didn't believe the rain would ever come like the old folks tried to believe and he said "Rivercross is dead".... he didn't know how right he was that day.
When they arrived back at town, they felt the ground vibrating and saw a huge dust storm in the air. Tara could feel the grounds distress and a danger warning. Everyone stood there like deer in headlights but Gran'da persisted that Tara hide when she really wanted to fight what was coming. He tries reasoning with her by saying " I've been a selfish old man. Go hide in the cellar, when everyone is gone, follow the riverbed to Littlepass. Find a healer named Lily and tell her she was right. Tell her I'm sorry and I should have sent word long ago."
3 Huge Black Metal Monsters came to town. Old Molly says "Death, Death is here!" Gran'da hits Tara over the head with a cooking pot and hides her down in the storm shelter.
Tara wakes up to a bump on the head and some bleeding. She doesn't know how long she was out but it's quiet and she busts out of the cellar. All the shanties are on fire and she finds....... the people of the town.....except Ben and the kids are missing.
Tara decides to take her Gran'da's advice and find Littletown, this is the beginning of her adventure. She travels 15 days through the Sand Lands and meets a boy and his devil cat who become her compainions. Then she travels 6 more days to the treeline which is where she thinks she will find Littletown... but she finds another compainion and goes on an adventure to discover who is Lily, where is Lily and who are the Black Metal Monsters?
I thought the beginning part of life in the village took up most of the book, and Tara's travels ended just when things were starting to unravel and explain themselves. I really liked Tara and I want to know more about her people. I don't want to give away the book so give it a read!! It's a fresh journey the likes I've never heard before!
I totally made a map of Tara's Journey and I have to figure out how to post it on here. It was really fun making it while I was reading.
Rivercross is a village of 25 people living in 10 shanties. Tara and her Gran'da, Shelly and Thomas have 2 children Thomas and Jane, Old Molly is the Seer, Miz Emma and her son Ben, and lastly Lou was the Whiskey maker. It was Tara's born day celebration(18 adult age) and she was close with Ben who was only 17. The only other kids were Thomas and Jane. A sickness came and leveled out the population, Gran'da was the only one who lived through the sickness.
Even before the sickness was The Shift. A Great War that killed everyone off or changed them into muties (deformed people). Everything was destroyed and mostly all that's left has been scavenged or is in ruins.
RIvercross was dry, barren, dusty, hot and all the water had dried up. The game was getting scarce as they hadn't seem a wild hog in 3 years. They mostly ate dirt dogs.
Tara was different though, she had black hair with a white stripe down each side of her skull. She also could feel the earth, her surroundings, the dirt ,but she didn't tell anyone or they'd think she was crazy or a mutie. She was good at hunting since her Gran'da had fell off the roof and hurt his leg. She could make traps, use an iron shooter (they ran out of ammo), a bow and arrow and carried a hunting knife and a water skin. Her Gran'da had taught her to fend for herself, and even tried to teach her to read and write a little. (In the book Tara the narrator talks in her native dialogue).
Tara woke to a bowlful of berries and a neck rap from her Gran'da. Ben met her while she was out hunting and gave her a black plastic rose necklace he had scavenged that matched Tara's hair. Tara and Ben talked of leaving because he didn't believe the rain would ever come like the old folks tried to believe and he said "Rivercross is dead".... he didn't know how right he was that day.
When they arrived back at town, they felt the ground vibrating and saw a huge dust storm in the air. Tara could feel the grounds distress and a danger warning. Everyone stood there like deer in headlights but Gran'da persisted that Tara hide when she really wanted to fight what was coming. He tries reasoning with her by saying " I've been a selfish old man. Go hide in the cellar, when everyone is gone, follow the riverbed to Littlepass. Find a healer named Lily and tell her she was right. Tell her I'm sorry and I should have sent word long ago."
3 Huge Black Metal Monsters came to town. Old Molly says "Death, Death is here!" Gran'da hits Tara over the head with a cooking pot and hides her down in the storm shelter.
Tara wakes up to a bump on the head and some bleeding. She doesn't know how long she was out but it's quiet and she busts out of the cellar. All the shanties are on fire and she finds....... the people of the town.....except Ben and the kids are missing.
Tara decides to take her Gran'da's advice and find Littletown, this is the beginning of her adventure. She travels 15 days through the Sand Lands and meets a boy and his devil cat who become her compainions. Then she travels 6 more days to the treeline which is where she thinks she will find Littletown... but she finds another compainion and goes on an adventure to discover who is Lily, where is Lily and who are the Black Metal Monsters?
I thought the beginning part of life in the village took up most of the book, and Tara's travels ended just when things were starting to unravel and explain themselves. I really liked Tara and I want to know more about her people. I don't want to give away the book so give it a read!! It's a fresh journey the likes I've never heard before!
February 21, 2015
Full Review Here
When I first started reading, I was a bit thrown off by the dialect, but it wasn't too hard to get accustomed to it. It wasn't that strong of a dialect that it was hard to read, which was helpful. It did, however, immediately conjure thoughts of Blood Red Road, especially when the village is destroyed and Tara sets out on her own. But very quickly, the BRR vibe dissipates, because the story takes a much, much different turn.
When Tara finds some fellow travellers along the way, the story begins to pick up. Finn, Tater, and Jax all really add to the story in different ways, but I loved them all. Tara was stubborn and didn't know much about the world around her, which really worked for the story. I am okay with some lacking backstory if there is a reason for it (in this case, Tara has grown up in a secluded village isolated from the outside world, and fully admits to not knowing much of what has happened with everyone else).
What I liked: Tara, for all her faults, is very, very believable. When met with some very unusual information, she completely resists and is sure that everyone has basically lost it. Which is basically how any one of us would react, which is really refreshing. The supporting characters were amazing. Finn was so sweet, and brought some light to an otherwise dismal situation. Tater was a piece of work, and I never quite knew what to make of him, but I was glad he was around. And even when Jax was being a jerk, there was still something about him that made him likeable. I liked the ways that Tara related with them all, never knowing who was completely trustworthy, but enjoying them nonetheless.
The plot was good, including a few twists and turns that I absolutely did not see coming. And I, for some reason, am always game for a group of people galavanting around in hopes of finding refuge. I don't know why, and maybe this is just a personal preference, but either way, I enjoyed it.
What I didn't: Okay, this might seem odd, but I didn't quite get why she was so completely dead-set on finding her kin, and so incredibly set on finding Ben. Yes, they were very close, and I understood that, and I assume that she probably will discover some stronger feelings, but this girl was risking her and everyone else's lives on the regular on the off chance that Ben was around. Maybe if she'd explained it more, I'd have understood more, but I kind of wanted to tell her just to abandon him already. Part of this was likely because we have very, very little interaction with Ben, so I wasn't particularly connected to him as a character, and Tara didn't really convince me that I needed to be. And while the plot generally moved along well, there were a few points that I did find my attention waning (but luckily, it definitely picked back up again!). I also felt like Tara's dialect faded in and out a bit. Maybe I was just getting used to reading it, but it seemed a little inconsistent.
Bottom Line: I enjoyed this book, and I especially enjoyed these characters. I will definitely pick up the next book when it comes out!
3.5*
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
When I first started reading, I was a bit thrown off by the dialect, but it wasn't too hard to get accustomed to it. It wasn't that strong of a dialect that it was hard to read, which was helpful. It did, however, immediately conjure thoughts of Blood Red Road, especially when the village is destroyed and Tara sets out on her own. But very quickly, the BRR vibe dissipates, because the story takes a much, much different turn.
When Tara finds some fellow travellers along the way, the story begins to pick up. Finn, Tater, and Jax all really add to the story in different ways, but I loved them all. Tara was stubborn and didn't know much about the world around her, which really worked for the story. I am okay with some lacking backstory if there is a reason for it (in this case, Tara has grown up in a secluded village isolated from the outside world, and fully admits to not knowing much of what has happened with everyone else).
What I liked: Tara, for all her faults, is very, very believable. When met with some very unusual information, she completely resists and is sure that everyone has basically lost it. Which is basically how any one of us would react, which is really refreshing. The supporting characters were amazing. Finn was so sweet, and brought some light to an otherwise dismal situation. Tater was a piece of work, and I never quite knew what to make of him, but I was glad he was around. And even when Jax was being a jerk, there was still something about him that made him likeable. I liked the ways that Tara related with them all, never knowing who was completely trustworthy, but enjoying them nonetheless.
The plot was good, including a few twists and turns that I absolutely did not see coming. And I, for some reason, am always game for a group of people galavanting around in hopes of finding refuge. I don't know why, and maybe this is just a personal preference, but either way, I enjoyed it.
What I didn't: Okay, this might seem odd, but I didn't quite get why she was so completely dead-set on finding her kin, and so incredibly set on finding Ben. Yes, they were very close, and I understood that, and I assume that she probably will discover some stronger feelings, but this girl was risking her and everyone else's lives on the regular on the off chance that Ben was around. Maybe if she'd explained it more, I'd have understood more, but I kind of wanted to tell her just to abandon him already. Part of this was likely because we have very, very little interaction with Ben, so I wasn't particularly connected to him as a character, and Tara didn't really convince me that I needed to be. And while the plot generally moved along well, there were a few points that I did find my attention waning (but luckily, it definitely picked back up again!). I also felt like Tara's dialect faded in and out a bit. Maybe I was just getting used to reading it, but it seemed a little inconsistent.
Bottom Line: I enjoyed this book, and I especially enjoyed these characters. I will definitely pick up the next book when it comes out!
3.5*
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews