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Lost Reputation
Casey Hayes has a secret—she writes the conspiracy theory column for her high school newspaper. As the editor, she thrives on the thrill of uncovering the facts—until she gets tangled up in a scandal.
When she begins reporting on a teacher’s shameful secret, threats start, demanding she stop investigating. Casey blows it off and keeps on writing. Even sexy Victor Cruz, the hot senior with the adorable accent who chases after Casey and tries to protect her, fails to convince her to keep her mouth shut. But things only get worse as she ignores the warnings, and soon, Casey must decide if exposing the truth is more important to her than her life.
When she begins reporting on a teacher’s shameful secret, threats start, demanding she stop investigating. Casey blows it off and keeps on writing. Even sexy Victor Cruz, the hot senior with the adorable accent who chases after Casey and tries to protect her, fails to convince her to keep her mouth shut. But things only get worse as she ignores the warnings, and soon, Casey must decide if exposing the truth is more important to her than her life.
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First published September 16, 2016
371 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Ann Miller
4 books184 followersKimberly Ann Miller received Bachelor's degrees from Georgian Court University and Rutgers University and a Master's degree from The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She is an avid reader and particularly enjoys true crime and young adult novels. She grew up in New Jersey and currently resides in Monmouth County with her husband and cats. When she’s not writing, she loves to travel to sunny islands where she snorkels by day and stargazes by night. She always has something to read with her.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 9, 2017
Disclaimer: I know the author, she has been to my store to do signings and I have hung out with her at book shows. She's a great person and a great author. This does not sway this review, my opinions are my own. I did not receive this book for the review. Though it was offered, I had already purchased my own copy. What can I say, I love her writing!
Ok, disclaimer done, onto the review.
This book takes place in high school in NJ (shout out!!!). The MCs are high school students, teachers, parents, etc. There is a love interest (who if he were a few years older would SO be my book BF. He is SO SWEET. Seriously, if only he were a little older.), which means there is some physical stuff going on, so older readers. No "home runs", but thoughts about it and some intense make-out sessions. Also some scary threats and some scenes of violence that fits with the storyline.
The female MC Casey wants to be an investigative reporter, so she does what she can to dig up the dirt on what is going on in the school to print in the school paper. I don't remember my high school ever being THAT busy with all sorts of things going on, but then again, I lived in a cave. Never saw drugs or drinking or anything like that, and I know (now) that it was there. I was just oblivious.
I'm going to be honest, I'm not into gossip or unearthing the truths at all costs like Casey is. She's a bit on the obsessive side. BUT, she and all of the other characters are written extremely well, and I don't have to agree with the MC in order to enjoy the book, but that's why the four and not five stars.
The characters were ALL living and breathing to me. They felt real, if a bit over the top at times, but hormones. That's kind of how it rolls when one is a teen. I also LOVED that it took place in NJ, (Whut WHUT, REPRESENT!!), and that it wasn't at NJ's expense.
Vic, the love interest was patient and sweet and kind and all sorts of sexy. The PERFECT guy to help level Casey out. She was really kind of mean to him, but that was because she wanted to focus on her career and not waste her time on boys. Which makes sense, because boys suck everything that is precious in your life out and want all of your attention, so instead of going to grad school you get married to a low life POS and realize you scuttled your yacht for a rowboat with one oar.
Et hem. Continuing on. So, as I was saying, you can't blame Casey for ignoring boys. Until Vic comes along and she realizes he's not a boy, he's a man. SIGH! ON A HORSE!!! SIIIIIIIIGH. Or in my case, a JetSki, heading to a lovely tropical island. :D
So this is a solid 4 star book. I just don't get the obsession Casey has with being an investigative reporter, but I respect her drive, despite being threatened and harassed for it. Her friends were solid, even if her family wasn't. Worth the read if you like mystery contemporary YA with some romance thrown in for good measure. :)
Ok, disclaimer done, onto the review.
This book takes place in high school in NJ (shout out!!!). The MCs are high school students, teachers, parents, etc. There is a love interest (who if he were a few years older would SO be my book BF. He is SO SWEET. Seriously, if only he were a little older.), which means there is some physical stuff going on, so older readers. No "home runs", but thoughts about it and some intense make-out sessions. Also some scary threats and some scenes of violence that fits with the storyline.
The female MC Casey wants to be an investigative reporter, so she does what she can to dig up the dirt on what is going on in the school to print in the school paper. I don't remember my high school ever being THAT busy with all sorts of things going on, but then again, I lived in a cave. Never saw drugs or drinking or anything like that, and I know (now) that it was there. I was just oblivious.
I'm going to be honest, I'm not into gossip or unearthing the truths at all costs like Casey is. She's a bit on the obsessive side. BUT, she and all of the other characters are written extremely well, and I don't have to agree with the MC in order to enjoy the book, but that's why the four and not five stars.
The characters were ALL living and breathing to me. They felt real, if a bit over the top at times, but hormones. That's kind of how it rolls when one is a teen. I also LOVED that it took place in NJ, (Whut WHUT, REPRESENT!!), and that it wasn't at NJ's expense.
Vic, the love interest was patient and sweet and kind and all sorts of sexy. The PERFECT guy to help level Casey out. She was really kind of mean to him, but that was because she wanted to focus on her career and not waste her time on boys. Which makes sense, because boys suck everything that is precious in your life out and want all of your attention, so instead of going to grad school you get married to a low life POS and realize you scuttled your yacht for a rowboat with one oar.
Et hem. Continuing on. So, as I was saying, you can't blame Casey for ignoring boys. Until Vic comes along and she realizes he's not a boy, he's a man. SIGH! ON A HORSE!!! SIIIIIIIIGH. Or in my case, a JetSki, heading to a lovely tropical island. :D
So this is a solid 4 star book. I just don't get the obsession Casey has with being an investigative reporter, but I respect her drive, despite being threatened and harassed for it. Her friends were solid, even if her family wasn't. Worth the read if you like mystery contemporary YA with some romance thrown in for good measure. :)
April 2, 2018
Lost Reputation is an easy, fun, YA novel with romance and mystery.
What I liked best about this novel was the main characters voice. It's believable as she's pretty sarcastic (like a lot of teens I know - including myself as a teen) and knows what she wants but flip flops on that a lot especially when she's considering her love interest. Totally relatable, I feel like I did that a lot as a teenager. I also love how the main character interacts with her two best friends (one her cousin the other her friend Charli). It's very sweet to see the closeness of their bond. All in all, I can see the characters in real life which is exactly what I want when I read a novel.
The story was also fun, a little bit of mystery, a little bit of romance (or denial of romance -depends on where you are in the book), and a few threats to give tension.
If you're a parent looking for an appropriate (not too sexual or violent) book for your teen or an adult that also enjoys YA-mystery & romance this may just be the book for you!
What I liked best about this novel was the main characters voice. It's believable as she's pretty sarcastic (like a lot of teens I know - including myself as a teen) and knows what she wants but flip flops on that a lot especially when she's considering her love interest. Totally relatable, I feel like I did that a lot as a teenager. I also love how the main character interacts with her two best friends (one her cousin the other her friend Charli). It's very sweet to see the closeness of their bond. All in all, I can see the characters in real life which is exactly what I want when I read a novel.
The story was also fun, a little bit of mystery, a little bit of romance (or denial of romance -depends on where you are in the book), and a few threats to give tension.
If you're a parent looking for an appropriate (not too sexual or violent) book for your teen or an adult that also enjoys YA-mystery & romance this may just be the book for you!
October 20, 2016
Lost Reputation is a must read. Forget the fact that it’s young adult (even though that part is fabulous), if you enjoy a good mystery this should be on your list to read! http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
October 20, 2016
There may be drugs in the cafeteria food and a teacher may be having a relationship with a student. That alone kept me reading but Casey really makes it hard to put the book down. There are several twists and revelations at the end, let me tell you, I didn’t get them all right! http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
September 25, 2016
An thrilling take on rumors, gossip and conspiracy theories. Casey writes a column for the school newspaper and finds herself getting deeper and deeper in trouble as truths are revealed and lies threaten not only her friends, but her life as well. This story unravels with the help of her best friend Charlie, cousin Mase, love interest Vic and his brother Hunter. A great YA read!
May 25, 2017
Miller pulls no punches in introducing feisty protagonist, Casey. The story arc had me hooked from beginning to end- and for me the writing comes up with a definite and well deserved five stars.
Dark at times, I loved the seductive theme of rumours and wild conspiracy theories...perfectly indulgent.
I particularly liked the way Miller has offered us a less than perfect teenager to contend with in Casey. She is intelligent, feisty and certainly has own way of doing things- rightly or wrongly!
It is a personal choice but I am tired of the wishy-washy teenage female protagonists. YA isn't about conformity and likeability- it's about keeping it real and I love these new voices that capture the bold teenage heart so acutely.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Dark at times, I loved the seductive theme of rumours and wild conspiracy theories...perfectly indulgent.
I particularly liked the way Miller has offered us a less than perfect teenager to contend with in Casey. She is intelligent, feisty and certainly has own way of doing things- rightly or wrongly!
It is a personal choice but I am tired of the wishy-washy teenage female protagonists. YA isn't about conformity and likeability- it's about keeping it real and I love these new voices that capture the bold teenage heart so acutely.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
December 6, 2016
Great for readers who love a little (or a lot of!) mystery with their YA!
October 24, 2016
Fantastic, clever, fast-paced YA read filled with suspense, twists and turns, and romance!
October 4, 2016
This was very interesting, it was full of suspense and mystery of trying to figure out who was sending the threatening messages to Casey, and other stuff at school that Casey was investigating (like the whole student-teacher relationship where the teacher ended up pregnant, now who's the baby daddy, are they really spiking the cafeteria food with drugs, etc).
At the beginning of the book, it seemed like half a dozen people could be the suspects, but as time went on, the list started to narrow, but at the same time it became more complicated the more Casey dived into the sort of "conspiracy" that she loves. At times I felt a Veronica Mars vibe coming off of her but then Casey would go back to being a hormonal, tad-bit narcissistic teenager that weall love to hate and can't help but roll our eyes at her naivety. Still, she took Taekwondo classes and can hold her end in a fight. Plus the side characters, Charli and Hunter were totally adorable as a couple.
The romance was sweet, if a little annoying at times. Or more like, Casey was annoying. She would almost always be thinking about Vic's body or how sexy and hot, and perfect he was, but then mention that she shouldn't be interested in him because she had a plan to graduate and go to college-blah blah blah. All the bipolarness was giving me whiplash. On the other hand, Vic was also a problem. He kept going after her even though Casey had a "boyfriend" (actually she pretended her cousin Mace was her boyfriend to turn away guys who bothered her) and after Vic revealed his past about how people told a lie that he cheated on his ex-girlfriend, I find it highly unbelievable that he would go and make Casey "cheat" on her boyfriend (even if it's fake but he doesn't know that) by kissing her and asking her out on dates. Like seriously, you were burned because of a rumor that said you cheated on your girlfriend and now you're basically doing the same thing that can ruin some other guy like the false rumor ruined you?? Smh. If only Casey would be like a normal teenager and admitted that she liked him sooner...
As for the actual culprit, I didn't see that coming! I had my theories about who the baby daddy was (and I was correct!) but the teacher, and the other thing that pertained to them, boy was that a surprise! The ending was when all the action happened and everything got revealed, but it seemed a little too rushed, like the author piled everything in one chapter and just wanted to finish the story.
Oh and she kept bumping into everyone, literally walking into them and then being all surprised about who she bumped into. Let's just stay things felt repetitive by the end of the book. Either way, the mystery and suspense were intriguing and I rather much enjoyed reading it.
At the beginning of the book, it seemed like half a dozen people could be the suspects, but as time went on, the list started to narrow, but at the same time it became more complicated the more Casey dived into the sort of "conspiracy" that she loves. At times I felt a Veronica Mars vibe coming off of her but then Casey would go back to being a hormonal, tad-bit narcissistic teenager that we
The romance was sweet, if a little annoying at times. Or more like, Casey was annoying. She would almost always be thinking about Vic's body or how sexy and hot, and perfect he was, but then mention that she shouldn't be interested in him because she had a plan to graduate and go to college-blah blah blah. All the bipolarness was giving me whiplash. On the other hand, Vic was also a problem. He kept going after her even though Casey had a "boyfriend" (actually she pretended her cousin Mace was her boyfriend to turn away guys who bothered her) and after Vic revealed his past about how people told a lie that he cheated on his ex-girlfriend, I find it highly unbelievable that he would go and make Casey "cheat" on her boyfriend (even if it's fake but he doesn't know that) by kissing her and asking her out on dates. Like seriously, you were burned because of a rumor that said you cheated on your girlfriend and now you're basically doing the same thing that can ruin some other guy like the false rumor ruined you?? Smh. If only Casey would be like a normal teenager and admitted that she liked him sooner...
As for the actual culprit, I didn't see that coming! I had my theories about who the baby daddy was (and I was correct!) but the teacher, and the other thing that pertained to them, boy was that a surprise! The ending was when all the action happened and everything got revealed, but it seemed a little too rushed, like the author piled everything in one chapter and just wanted to finish the story.
Oh and she kept bumping into everyone, literally walking into them and then being all surprised about who she bumped into. Let's just stay things felt repetitive by the end of the book. Either way, the mystery and suspense were intriguing and I rather much enjoyed reading it.
November 22, 2016
**4.25 stars**
"Lost Reputation" is a whirlwind YA romance/semi-mystery novel, starring Casey, who is allegedly obsessed with conspiracy theories, gossip, and spreading the "truth." When she gets caught up with Vic, one of her classmates, her obsession takes a deadly turn for the worse.
There are a lot of things I liked about this novel, namely that the characters are so vivid and varied. Character is the most important aspect to me, so having easy-to-remember people makes for a fascinating read. The mystery is fairly well written, though I have to admit that the twist of "whodunnit" didn't surprise me so much as make me a touch uncomfortable. Not that it was an easy guess, I think I just expected a little less of a convoluted reason for it all.
The dialogue is very natural--and pulls no punches. There is a LOT of swearing in this novel, so parents buying this for their teenagers might consider reserving it for older teens, especially since things also get a little hot and heavy between Casey and her romantic lead (NOT explicit, but the implications are very much there). But it reads very well, and you can hear the characters' voices in your head as you read. Ms. Miller certainly as an aptitude for dialogue, and it shows.
At the end of the day, the only reason I felt the need to knock off one star was just... Casey herself. A lot of her actions puzzled me. She's strong-willed, but also brash and brazen and almost narcissistic in a way. Even in the end, where she needs to learn her lesson and move on with life, it seems to arise more from self-preservation than acknowledging that her actions have consequences on OTHER people as well. Yes, she does acknowledge it, but her life literally has to be in jeopardy before she takes the threats against her seriously. I think many readers will love her, but I found her to be a little too much, personally. It all comes down to the readers' taste. She'll definitely shine with young women who always crave to be so strong and vocal--it just doesn't do anything for me, and since she's the narrator, some points had to be knocked off.
In the end, would I recommend this? Yes--to older teens and adults. It's a sassy, driven story with vibrant characters and a strong voice. Love her or hate her, Casey leaves her mark--exactly as a reporter should. To that end, Ms. Miller did not fail to deliver.
"Lost Reputation" is a whirlwind YA romance/semi-mystery novel, starring Casey, who is allegedly obsessed with conspiracy theories, gossip, and spreading the "truth." When she gets caught up with Vic, one of her classmates, her obsession takes a deadly turn for the worse.
There are a lot of things I liked about this novel, namely that the characters are so vivid and varied. Character is the most important aspect to me, so having easy-to-remember people makes for a fascinating read. The mystery is fairly well written, though I have to admit that the twist of "whodunnit" didn't surprise me so much as make me a touch uncomfortable. Not that it was an easy guess, I think I just expected a little less of a convoluted reason for it all.
The dialogue is very natural--and pulls no punches. There is a LOT of swearing in this novel, so parents buying this for their teenagers might consider reserving it for older teens, especially since things also get a little hot and heavy between Casey and her romantic lead (NOT explicit, but the implications are very much there). But it reads very well, and you can hear the characters' voices in your head as you read. Ms. Miller certainly as an aptitude for dialogue, and it shows.
At the end of the day, the only reason I felt the need to knock off one star was just... Casey herself. A lot of her actions puzzled me. She's strong-willed, but also brash and brazen and almost narcissistic in a way. Even in the end, where she needs to learn her lesson and move on with life, it seems to arise more from self-preservation than acknowledging that her actions have consequences on OTHER people as well. Yes, she does acknowledge it, but her life literally has to be in jeopardy before she takes the threats against her seriously. I think many readers will love her, but I found her to be a little too much, personally. It all comes down to the readers' taste. She'll definitely shine with young women who always crave to be so strong and vocal--it just doesn't do anything for me, and since she's the narrator, some points had to be knocked off.
In the end, would I recommend this? Yes--to older teens and adults. It's a sassy, driven story with vibrant characters and a strong voice. Love her or hate her, Casey leaves her mark--exactly as a reporter should. To that end, Ms. Miller did not fail to deliver.
December 3, 2016
This book took gossip and the rumor mill to a whole new level. The pace really picked up as the story went on, and once I passed around the sixty percent mark, I had a very hard time putting it down.
The chemistry between Casey and Vic was evident, even during the times that Casey didn't want to admit it to herself. I think the author did a wonderful job of showing the inner conflict in those instances.
I debated about whether I wanted to give this book 4 or 5 stars, but in the end, I would rate it a solid 4.5. Casey was a strong, intelligent main character. However, there was one moment where she brushed off an event that I expected to trigger warning bells in her mind. I don't do spoilers, so I won't go into the details here.
That being said, it didn't stop me from devouring the rest of the book. I very much enjoyed Lost Reputation, and think anyone who enjoys YA suspense with a strong dose of romance would love it.
The chemistry between Casey and Vic was evident, even during the times that Casey didn't want to admit it to herself. I think the author did a wonderful job of showing the inner conflict in those instances.
I debated about whether I wanted to give this book 4 or 5 stars, but in the end, I would rate it a solid 4.5. Casey was a strong, intelligent main character. However, there was one moment where she brushed off an event that I expected to trigger warning bells in her mind. I don't do spoilers, so I won't go into the details here.
That being said, it didn't stop me from devouring the rest of the book. I very much enjoyed Lost Reputation, and think anyone who enjoys YA suspense with a strong dose of romance would love it.
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April 9, 2024A really fun read that tackles the effects of gossip and rumours on people's lives. And shows just how quickly news can travel and the impact it has on people's lives.
Casey is a great character who makes no apologies in her quest for dishing out the truth. And some wild conspiracy theories! Her quick comebacks were funny and she's definitely not someone to mess with! Although I did want to shake her sometimes for giving Vic the brush off because hello? The guy was unbelievable. Total knight in shining armour wonderful. He even came to her rescue on a horse!
Lost Reputation will keep you guessing until the very end and is definitely a book worth reading!
Casey is a great character who makes no apologies in her quest for dishing out the truth. And some wild conspiracy theories! Her quick comebacks were funny and she's definitely not someone to mess with! Although I did want to shake her sometimes for giving Vic the brush off because hello? The guy was unbelievable. Total knight in shining armour wonderful. He even came to her rescue on a horse!
Lost Reputation will keep you guessing until the very end and is definitely a book worth reading!
October 26, 2016
The book was pretty good! I read it in two days. One thing really bothered me and it's probably just because I've been teaching myself Spanish. When Victor used "que" and "si," he wasn't saying "what" or "yes" but "that" and "if." Accents are very important in Spanish. Papa is potato but papá is father. In order for Vic's bit of Spanish to be accurate, he would have to say "qué" and "sí." This drove me nuts through the entire book.
December 1, 2016
Five stars for Lost Reputation – and I’d give it more if I could because it kept me up late reading! This book was a fun mix of mystery, romance, and wit. The main character, Casey, was awesome. Her inquisitive nature and tough attitude made for a fun read. And the mysteries in the book were a real page-turner and solidly plotted.
This book would be great for anyone seeking a good mystery, especially one with humor and cute romance.
This book would be great for anyone seeking a good mystery, especially one with humor and cute romance.
September 30, 2016
This young adult mystery kept me on the edge of my seat as the twists and turns unraveled. Well written with exciting characters and the author's writing style sweeps you up into the story line and captivates you in the truths and lies of it all.
{I received an eARC when I signed up to host the tour. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are my own.}
{I received an eARC when I signed up to host the tour. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are my own.}
October 2, 2016
**SPOILER FREE**
Very impressed with this book and how everything all played out. Well written! This was a page turner for me. I just had to keep reading to see what the final outcome of everything will be. You won't believe what is behind this cover!
*Received for an honest review*
Very impressed with this book and how everything all played out. Well written! This was a page turner for me. I just had to keep reading to see what the final outcome of everything will be. You won't believe what is behind this cover!
*Received for an honest review*
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews