What do you think?
Rate this book
Adventures of Alexis Davenport #1
Dangerous Reflections
Alexis Davenport wants to go home. She hates her new school, her mother for moving her away from her friends, and her father for walking out.
To make matters worse, Alex is haunted by images of strange girls reflected in her mirror. It’s bad enough juggling homework, a relentless bully, boys, and a deadbeat dad; now, she must save the world from an evil presence hell-bent on changing the past – and our futures. Who knew her A+ in history was going to be this important?
To make matters worse, Alex is haunted by images of strange girls reflected in her mirror. It’s bad enough juggling homework, a relentless bully, boys, and a deadbeat dad; now, she must save the world from an evil presence hell-bent on changing the past – and our futures. Who knew her A+ in history was going to be this important?
212 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
3 people are currently reading
619 people want to read
About the author
Shay West
12 books92 followersShay West was born in Longmont, CO and earned a doctorate degree in Human Medical Genetics from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical. Dr. West currently lives in Grand Junction, CO with her cat (Oreo), packrat (Rose Tyler), and bearded dragon (Madame Vastra). When not writing novels, she plays with plushie microbes and teaches biology classes at Colorado Mesa University. She is the author of the Portals of Destiny series, the Adventures of Alexis Davenport series, Soul Reapers, and Organ Reapers. She has also been published in several anthologies: Battlespace (military scifi), Orange Karen: Tribute to a Warrior (fundraiser), Ancient New (steampunk/fantasy), and Horror in Bloom.
You can find Dr. West and more of her work at Shay-West.com.
You can find Dr. West and more of her work at Shay-West.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 8, 2015
Synopsis
Alexis Davenport is angry. Her mother has forced her to move to Grand Junction, Colorado, to live with her mother's sister, away from all her friends and the life she knows. Even if it's because her father left them and took all their money, no one asked her opinion. Alex is expecting the worst, her first year of high school in a new school with no friends. On the way to their new home, Alexis sees another girl's face in the mirror, a girl from the past, and has no idea what to make of it. The siting happens again, and this time, when she touches the mirror, she ends up in this girl's body, trapped in the past, until she accomplishes what she's been sent to do.
Alexis has a special gift. Her consciousness leaves her body and enters the body of another person in the past. And each time, she has a mission, working against an evil presence that wants to change history in the worst of ways. And this is on top of dealing with the usual angst of teenage years, like the mean girls who have it in for her, and a crush on the "It Boy" at school who happens to be her lab partner. Alex's life is about to get a lot more interesting.
Review
I had no idea what to expect of this book, but it turned out to be a very enthralling read. Alex is a character that will stimulate a mix of emotions in the reader. At times, I felt like her ungrateful behavior towards her mother and aunt was very hard to swallow--she seemed a little bratty. But it was clear that Alex had a lot of reason to be troubled, on top of just being a girl on the cusp of womanhood. I also felt deep sympathy for the intense bullying she had to deal with by a classmate who decided she has in it for Alex. West captures the tension, the awkwardness and the everyday terror of being an unpopular teenager who is finding their way through difficult social situations. This part was very well-written and realistic. Readers who have struggled with being bullied will find solace here, and it's also a good learning experience for those who managed to avoid bullying in their teen years. I like how the writing shows Alex's growth and her developing emotional maturity in these situations without being preachy. It was an interesting touch that Alex was such a huge history buff. I liked that she really enjoyed school and learning, and how this was a pivotal aspect to her personality.
The time traveling aspect was intriguing and exciting. Alex's gift is very special, and she has to learn to live with it and employ it to do the right thing and to stay safe. There are some thrilling scenes as Alex faces a nefarious person with similar abilities and a lot more experience, teamed with no scruples. History buffs will appreciate the various snapshots in history, and feel like they are walking in Alex's shoes as she works to preserve history but make the right decisions.
Dangerous Reflections is a good start to a series, and it ends in a way that will draw readers into continuing the series. Alex's growth as a person is realistic, and readers will sympathize with her and cheer her on as her experiences as a time travel empower her to have courage in her everyday battles. I recommend this book to young adult readers and readers of young adult fantasy fiction.
Reviewed for The Hope Chest Reviews: http://www.thcreviews.com/cgi-bin/vts...
Alexis Davenport is angry. Her mother has forced her to move to Grand Junction, Colorado, to live with her mother's sister, away from all her friends and the life she knows. Even if it's because her father left them and took all their money, no one asked her opinion. Alex is expecting the worst, her first year of high school in a new school with no friends. On the way to their new home, Alexis sees another girl's face in the mirror, a girl from the past, and has no idea what to make of it. The siting happens again, and this time, when she touches the mirror, she ends up in this girl's body, trapped in the past, until she accomplishes what she's been sent to do.
Alexis has a special gift. Her consciousness leaves her body and enters the body of another person in the past. And each time, she has a mission, working against an evil presence that wants to change history in the worst of ways. And this is on top of dealing with the usual angst of teenage years, like the mean girls who have it in for her, and a crush on the "It Boy" at school who happens to be her lab partner. Alex's life is about to get a lot more interesting.
Review
I had no idea what to expect of this book, but it turned out to be a very enthralling read. Alex is a character that will stimulate a mix of emotions in the reader. At times, I felt like her ungrateful behavior towards her mother and aunt was very hard to swallow--she seemed a little bratty. But it was clear that Alex had a lot of reason to be troubled, on top of just being a girl on the cusp of womanhood. I also felt deep sympathy for the intense bullying she had to deal with by a classmate who decided she has in it for Alex. West captures the tension, the awkwardness and the everyday terror of being an unpopular teenager who is finding their way through difficult social situations. This part was very well-written and realistic. Readers who have struggled with being bullied will find solace here, and it's also a good learning experience for those who managed to avoid bullying in their teen years. I like how the writing shows Alex's growth and her developing emotional maturity in these situations without being preachy. It was an interesting touch that Alex was such a huge history buff. I liked that she really enjoyed school and learning, and how this was a pivotal aspect to her personality.
The time traveling aspect was intriguing and exciting. Alex's gift is very special, and she has to learn to live with it and employ it to do the right thing and to stay safe. There are some thrilling scenes as Alex faces a nefarious person with similar abilities and a lot more experience, teamed with no scruples. History buffs will appreciate the various snapshots in history, and feel like they are walking in Alex's shoes as she works to preserve history but make the right decisions.
Dangerous Reflections is a good start to a series, and it ends in a way that will draw readers into continuing the series. Alex's growth as a person is realistic, and readers will sympathize with her and cheer her on as her experiences as a time travel empower her to have courage in her everyday battles. I recommend this book to young adult readers and readers of young adult fantasy fiction.
Reviewed for The Hope Chest Reviews: http://www.thcreviews.com/cgi-bin/vts...
July 16, 2012
Dangerous Reflections was a great YA novel. It was about Alex, the main character, time traveling when she sometimes looked in a mirror. The plot was very well written. There were no plot holes or spelling errors. My favorite thing about the book was even though it was a work of fiction, the reader can still learn something about history. Alex travels to many different time periods. My favorite time period that she traveled to was Venice, where she was a courtesan named Anastasia. I liked some of the characters. Other characters, I didn't much care for. I didn't like Beau, Catelyn, or Amy. They had attitudes and personalities that rubbed me the wrong way. My favorite character was C.C. I loved her fun attitude. She seemed to always be able to turn a glum situation into something fun. I really hope Paul and Alex become a couple in the future. I think they would make a good match for each other. I can't wait to read book two, Twisted Reflections, and find out what happens to Alex when she time travels to Egypt. I really hope she inhabits Cleopatra's body. I'm also curious to see how she will stop Drifter for good. I recommend Dangerous Reflections for fans of YA, historical fiction, and paranormal/supernatural novels.
February 27, 2012
I was given this book by the author which I was excited to get it because if not I was going to buy it because it was right up my ally of something I would read.Now about the book.....
Alexis Davenport was just a normal girl with a family until one day her dad just ups and leaves Alexis and her mom, but not before he cleaned out the bank account which only leaves one option for Alexis and her mother..move. So they move into Alex's aunt's guest house. Something weird is going on with Alexis, something she doesnt tell anyone about. She is seeing someone in the mirror and its not herself. Thats not her only problem at the moment either, she is battling a new school where she has bullies and a new place to call home. One day when she is looking into the mirror she see's the girl, when she starts to really look at this girl in the mirror she is transported back in time where this girl is from! At first she starts freaking out I mean who wouldnt be! You start to wonder if she can handle everything school, being transported back in time not just once mind you, bullies and then if she can maintain a normal life. You just have to read this book to go through everything Alexis did and everything that happens to her.
This book was a WOW! I enjoyed this book so much, it was one of those that took me forever to get to it and when you finally do you are kicking yourself for not reading it sooner! And the ending! OMG what an ending!! But I have to say I hate cliffhangers, Shay Fabbro sure does know how to leave you wanting more. Alexis character is someone to remember and somewhat envy. I would love to go back in history and learn and be a part of history.
I give this book of course 5 out of 5 stars!! Meaning I woudl HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone! I look forward to the next book in this series.
August 24, 2014
Original review posted at JC's Book Haven
"Alex, I have no choice. We have no money for rent and I can't find work. Your aunt Karen is giving me a job in her store but only if we can get to Grand Junction this weekend."
The Good
For starters, the development of the characters was believable to me. In particular, our heroine, Alex. Right away, I felt a connection with her, having to leave her best friends right as the dreaded freshman year was about to start. This wasn't an over the top high school environment bullying wise. It was the type of bullying your parents would expect you to deal with. I like how her time travel gift works. I love that she doesn't have any real control and just kind of waits and dreads when her next trip will be.
The Bad
Let's just say Alex's mom is not my favorite book mom ever. She's a little strict and a bit over bearing for me, but oh well.
The Romance
The romance is fun as you get to experience that first love, first date and first kiss all through Alex eye's.
Conclusion
I really enjoyed Dangerous Reflections. I liked the particular places chosen to visit in the past. There wasn't much down time with this book at all. Once I started reading it, I was able to stay involved in the story and lose track of a Saturday afternoon.
"Alex, I have no choice. We have no money for rent and I can't find work. Your aunt Karen is giving me a job in her store but only if we can get to Grand Junction this weekend."
The Good
For starters, the development of the characters was believable to me. In particular, our heroine, Alex. Right away, I felt a connection with her, having to leave her best friends right as the dreaded freshman year was about to start. This wasn't an over the top high school environment bullying wise. It was the type of bullying your parents would expect you to deal with. I like how her time travel gift works. I love that she doesn't have any real control and just kind of waits and dreads when her next trip will be.
The Bad
Let's just say Alex's mom is not my favorite book mom ever. She's a little strict and a bit over bearing for me, but oh well.
The Romance
The romance is fun as you get to experience that first love, first date and first kiss all through Alex eye's.
Conclusion
I really enjoyed Dangerous Reflections. I liked the particular places chosen to visit in the past. There wasn't much down time with this book at all. Once I started reading it, I was able to stay involved in the story and lose track of a Saturday afternoon.
June 21, 2014
One of the first things I have to mention is the realism of the book. The author does a wonderful job of bringing Alexis’ emotions to the forefront as she tries to find a way to fit in with her new friends and school. You actually feel what she’s going through and it reminded me of some of the spoiled brat type of things I pulled on my parents. Not that I’m calling Alexis spoiled. ::Whistles innocently::
Like so many of us, Alexis has a rival, who also happens to be the most popular and beautiful girl in school. While I didn’t have anyone like that antagonizing me, I can feel for her and I can’t tell you how many times I wanted Alexis to haul off and clock her one.
As an occasional fan of YA, I really enjoyed how easy it was to get into the book and character and can’t wait for the next in the series to come out.
Like so many of us, Alexis has a rival, who also happens to be the most popular and beautiful girl in school. While I didn’t have anyone like that antagonizing me, I can feel for her and I can’t tell you how many times I wanted Alexis to haul off and clock her one.
As an occasional fan of YA, I really enjoyed how easy it was to get into the book and character and can’t wait for the next in the series to come out.
June 23, 2014
You can also find this review at http://girlinthewoodsreviews.blogspot...
Detailed Review: I'm not into time-travel books. However, I have read a few. The best one I've read so far has got to be All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terrill.
To be honest, the title didn't even give off the fact that this would be about time travel. But this did nothing to change my opinion of the book.
That completely changed after I read Dangerous Reflections. I feel that from reading this one book has taught me more than I could ever learn in two years of history. Ok, that may be an exaggeration but you get what I mean. This book rivals All Our Yesterdays with it's smooth writing, sudden changes of direction in the story and realistic characters.
Surprisingly I could feel a connection with the characters even though the book was written in third person. Usually I'm unable to find a sense of connection to the main character when this type of writing is used but somehow with this book, it was... different.
I didn't just like the aspect of time-travel in the book, I also liked the aspect of high school. The author doesn't just create problems in the past, she creates problems in Alex's life as well. She has a deadbeat dad, financial situation, a bully and a crush who treats her like garbage to deal with, not counting the times when she has to travel back in time to save the lives of people she doesn't know, which could affect the future and cause severe repercussions.
I just love how the author could fit so much action into one chapter and then move on into 'normal' mode in the next. Normal as in high school. And even high school isn't pleasant except the fact that she has friends and one of them knows about her gift for time travel (it was an accident).
The antagonists in the story were really well-planned. The Master definitely was creepy and Drifter wasn't really nice either. Not with those cold, soulless eyes... They, like Alex, have the ability to travel through time. But they have a different agenda. They want to change the past and what's stopping them is Alex.
I thought that Alex had lots of courage to face the challenges her gift threw at her- which was to not let Drifter change the past. She also has to deal with high school problems and her financial situation. Her perseverance in these matters are to be admired because really if the lines blurred between reality and fantasy, which do you believe? Yet, she moves on and meets those challenges head-on. Her love for her family and friends were also great as it actually contrasts her to Master and Drifter and makes her out to be someone caring and soulful, unlike them. Her talent for acting, later discovered in the book has not only helped her gain popularity in school, it has also helped her survive in life-and-death situations when she's on her time-travel expeditions. Her thirst for history never fails her either. Now I can preach to my friends and family how important History is. I guess I just found the best reason *winks*
And time-travelling through a mirror? That's just cool.
Moving on, there's just one part in the book that leaves me curious... (I really don't want to spoil it for you so I'll keep my mouth shut) BUT it was to do with her father. Just saying. I'll leave your imagination to do the thinking. It's actually one of the twists in there.
There were many twists. Some small, some big, but as effective.
The author uses a type of technique; I don't even know if she used it on purpose or if it came out naturally for her. If you looked at the story as a whole, it may seem like quite a simple story about a girl who can time-travel and has problems in school and at home. But if you broke it down, it's actually more complex than you think. I really like this type of writing.
Brief Review: I honestly love how the author not only brings in the challenges of having the ability to time-travel, but also the difficulties of growing up in this book. Teen crushes, bullies, high school, you name it. West's writing skills were top-notch in this book. Her simplicity only made this book more complicated than it actually seemed. And if you want some history lessons, this book makes the best teacher; it's never boring!
Final Rating: 5/5 'Totally Amazing!'
Detailed Review: I'm not into time-travel books. However, I have read a few. The best one I've read so far has got to be All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terrill.
To be honest, the title didn't even give off the fact that this would be about time travel. But this did nothing to change my opinion of the book.
That completely changed after I read Dangerous Reflections. I feel that from reading this one book has taught me more than I could ever learn in two years of history. Ok, that may be an exaggeration but you get what I mean. This book rivals All Our Yesterdays with it's smooth writing, sudden changes of direction in the story and realistic characters.
Surprisingly I could feel a connection with the characters even though the book was written in third person. Usually I'm unable to find a sense of connection to the main character when this type of writing is used but somehow with this book, it was... different.
I didn't just like the aspect of time-travel in the book, I also liked the aspect of high school. The author doesn't just create problems in the past, she creates problems in Alex's life as well. She has a deadbeat dad, financial situation, a bully and a crush who treats her like garbage to deal with, not counting the times when she has to travel back in time to save the lives of people she doesn't know, which could affect the future and cause severe repercussions.
I just love how the author could fit so much action into one chapter and then move on into 'normal' mode in the next. Normal as in high school. And even high school isn't pleasant except the fact that she has friends and one of them knows about her gift for time travel (it was an accident).
The antagonists in the story were really well-planned. The Master definitely was creepy and Drifter wasn't really nice either. Not with those cold, soulless eyes... They, like Alex, have the ability to travel through time. But they have a different agenda. They want to change the past and what's stopping them is Alex.
I thought that Alex had lots of courage to face the challenges her gift threw at her- which was to not let Drifter change the past. She also has to deal with high school problems and her financial situation. Her perseverance in these matters are to be admired because really if the lines blurred between reality and fantasy, which do you believe? Yet, she moves on and meets those challenges head-on. Her love for her family and friends were also great as it actually contrasts her to Master and Drifter and makes her out to be someone caring and soulful, unlike them. Her talent for acting, later discovered in the book has not only helped her gain popularity in school, it has also helped her survive in life-and-death situations when she's on her time-travel expeditions. Her thirst for history never fails her either. Now I can preach to my friends and family how important History is. I guess I just found the best reason *winks*
And time-travelling through a mirror? That's just cool.
Moving on, there's just one part in the book that leaves me curious... (I really don't want to spoil it for you so I'll keep my mouth shut) BUT it was to do with her father. Just saying. I'll leave your imagination to do the thinking. It's actually one of the twists in there.
There were many twists. Some small, some big, but as effective.
The author uses a type of technique; I don't even know if she used it on purpose or if it came out naturally for her. If you looked at the story as a whole, it may seem like quite a simple story about a girl who can time-travel and has problems in school and at home. But if you broke it down, it's actually more complex than you think. I really like this type of writing.
Brief Review: I honestly love how the author not only brings in the challenges of having the ability to time-travel, but also the difficulties of growing up in this book. Teen crushes, bullies, high school, you name it. West's writing skills were top-notch in this book. Her simplicity only made this book more complicated than it actually seemed. And if you want some history lessons, this book makes the best teacher; it's never boring!
Final Rating: 5/5 'Totally Amazing!'
March 6, 2012
Being a teenager is tough. Even when your circumstances are ideal. But when you add dysfunctional family and poverty to the mix, life REALLY sucks. Just ask Alexis Davenport. She's been left penniless and abandoned by her father, uprooted from her home, separated from her friends and transferred to a new school, all because her parents can't get their act together. Sounds harsh, right? Well, to make matters worse, Alexis starts seeing things that make her question her sanity. There are girls, who are definitely not her, looking back at her in the mirror. Great! That's just what she needs!
Cue the entrance of a hot new crush, who really gets her blood pumping, the evil popular girl hell bent on humiliating her, who, oh yeah, also happens to be dating said crush and you've got 4 yrs of high school anxiety doled out in the span of months. Then, as if simply seeing strange people isn't enough to freak her out, she's being painfully transported back in time against her will.
I don't know if there's any other person better suited to save the day than Alex. She's a smart cookie with great instincts. It would be one thing if Alex could travel through time, walk around and appreciate or experience things she's only read about in her history books (she's a big history buff after all), but no, her situation won't be that simple. She's being sent back for a purpose. And the stakes are high. Like she doesn't have enough to deal with as it is.
It's heartbreaking to witness her experience the emotions and hurt that come with the realization that a parent has abandoned you. It's not like she and her father, Gary, were close to begin with. But, to a child it should feel like a given that your parents love you and consider your welfare above theirs, no matter what happens in their lives. She doesn't necessarily want anything to do with him, but that doesn't mean the desire to feel wanted isn't there.
It took me a few chapters to get into this book, when I did, I loved it. Shay Fabbro perfectly captures the voice of a teenager. I laughed quite a bit as Alex has bouts of ungratefulness, tantrums, sulking, outbursts, thinking she knows it all, all while struggling not to wear all her emotions on her sleeve. Sounds familiar, right? Like maybe every emotionally unstable, sullen teenager out there. But, Alex isn't a bad kid. On the contrary, she's very well-rounded. Especially considering the circumstances of her upbringing. She's an excellent student, makes friends easily, holds down a job and shows a great deal of growth and maturity as the story develops. I really enjoyed her inner dialogue and she tries to juggle being a supportive daughter, a good friend, a dedicated student and a time traveler/hero.
What I liked best about this book is that although Alex can travel back in time, her REAL super power is her intellect and her willingness to follow her instincts. I rally behind any book that empowers girls to wield their intelligence instead of their looks. I hated for the book to end with no sequel at the ready (patience isn't my greatest virtue...the sequel is due to be released at the end of this month, for goodness sakes!), especially with the terrific cliffhanger we're left with. I would recommend this book series to everyone Jr. High age and up.
Follow my blog:
http://www.leavemommyalone.blogspot.com
Cue the entrance of a hot new crush, who really gets her blood pumping, the evil popular girl hell bent on humiliating her, who, oh yeah, also happens to be dating said crush and you've got 4 yrs of high school anxiety doled out in the span of months. Then, as if simply seeing strange people isn't enough to freak her out, she's being painfully transported back in time against her will.
I don't know if there's any other person better suited to save the day than Alex. She's a smart cookie with great instincts. It would be one thing if Alex could travel through time, walk around and appreciate or experience things she's only read about in her history books (she's a big history buff after all), but no, her situation won't be that simple. She's being sent back for a purpose. And the stakes are high. Like she doesn't have enough to deal with as it is.
It's heartbreaking to witness her experience the emotions and hurt that come with the realization that a parent has abandoned you. It's not like she and her father, Gary, were close to begin with. But, to a child it should feel like a given that your parents love you and consider your welfare above theirs, no matter what happens in their lives. She doesn't necessarily want anything to do with him, but that doesn't mean the desire to feel wanted isn't there.
It took me a few chapters to get into this book, when I did, I loved it. Shay Fabbro perfectly captures the voice of a teenager. I laughed quite a bit as Alex has bouts of ungratefulness, tantrums, sulking, outbursts, thinking she knows it all, all while struggling not to wear all her emotions on her sleeve. Sounds familiar, right? Like maybe every emotionally unstable, sullen teenager out there. But, Alex isn't a bad kid. On the contrary, she's very well-rounded. Especially considering the circumstances of her upbringing. She's an excellent student, makes friends easily, holds down a job and shows a great deal of growth and maturity as the story develops. I really enjoyed her inner dialogue and she tries to juggle being a supportive daughter, a good friend, a dedicated student and a time traveler/hero.
What I liked best about this book is that although Alex can travel back in time, her REAL super power is her intellect and her willingness to follow her instincts. I rally behind any book that empowers girls to wield their intelligence instead of their looks. I hated for the book to end with no sequel at the ready (patience isn't my greatest virtue...the sequel is due to be released at the end of this month, for goodness sakes!), especially with the terrific cliffhanger we're left with. I would recommend this book series to everyone Jr. High age and up.
Follow my blog:
http://www.leavemommyalone.blogspot.com
February 19, 2014
When her world is turned upside down and inside out, Alexis Davenport pretty much hates everything and everybody. Her parents are getting a divorce, she has to move to her wealthy aunt’s guest house with her mother, then there’s the new school to contend with and everyone knows how the new kids are treated. Alexis is worried if she will fit in, if she’ll have friends, everything a young teen’s insecurities can imagine. So when she started seeing a stranger’s face in her mirror, she isn’t sure what to make of it, is it a hallucination? Stress? Or, is it something else? Who can she tell about this strange phenomenon? Will people believe her or think she’s going crazy? Will her love of history become one of her greatest tools as she travels back in time and becomes the person she sees in the mirror? Is there a special power she possesses, does she have a special purpose in life? The answers are all there in Dangerous Reflectionsby Shay West.
Shay West has taken an overwrought, unhappy girl who is envious of everyone around her and given her a purpose to her life that strengthens her self-confidence and boosts her self-esteem in book one of the Adventures of Alexis Davenport series. Ms. West has given a real voice to young Alexis, whose life is in complete emotional chaos. At first, Alexis is hard to like, even knowing what she has been through and all of the changes that were completely out of her control. Through the skillful and creative writing of Shay West, Alexis learns to stand up to bullies, learns that the cutest guy at school isn’t the best choice to moon over and finds that she can make true friends that will back her up, no matter what. All the while, Alexis goes back in time to right wrongs and prevent evil from changing history.
Dangerous Reflections is an exciting fantasy read for YA and younger YA readers as their imaginations will take them back in time to historical events that they usually only learn about in textbooks. Adventure, history, time travel and coming into one’s own, it’s all there as Shay West guides us through an amazing trip, right along with Alexis. A quick read that draws you in from start to finish!
I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. do I recommend it for younger readers? Definitely!
Series: Adventures of Alexis Davenport, Book 1
Publication Date: May 17, 2011
Publisher: RicaShay Publishing
Genre: YA Fantasy \ Younger Readers Fantasy
Number of Pages: 262
Available from: Amazon
Shay West has taken an overwrought, unhappy girl who is envious of everyone around her and given her a purpose to her life that strengthens her self-confidence and boosts her self-esteem in book one of the Adventures of Alexis Davenport series. Ms. West has given a real voice to young Alexis, whose life is in complete emotional chaos. At first, Alexis is hard to like, even knowing what she has been through and all of the changes that were completely out of her control. Through the skillful and creative writing of Shay West, Alexis learns to stand up to bullies, learns that the cutest guy at school isn’t the best choice to moon over and finds that she can make true friends that will back her up, no matter what. All the while, Alexis goes back in time to right wrongs and prevent evil from changing history.
Dangerous Reflections is an exciting fantasy read for YA and younger YA readers as their imaginations will take them back in time to historical events that they usually only learn about in textbooks. Adventure, history, time travel and coming into one’s own, it’s all there as Shay West guides us through an amazing trip, right along with Alexis. A quick read that draws you in from start to finish!
I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. do I recommend it for younger readers? Definitely!
Series: Adventures of Alexis Davenport, Book 1
Publication Date: May 17, 2011
Publisher: RicaShay Publishing
Genre: YA Fantasy \ Younger Readers Fantasy
Number of Pages: 262
Available from: Amazon
December 16, 2014
Alexis Davenport is trying to adjust to her dramatically altered life after her father walks out on the family. Destitute, Alexis and her mother move to a new town relying on the generosity of a relative. Alexis starts high school where she makes new friends and develops a crush that results in a bully becoming fixated on her. Meanwhile, the disruptive manipulation of historical events forces hidden abilities within Alexis to surface along with an altered reflection that draws her into the past. This is the first book in The Adventures Of Alexis Davenport trilogy.
Dangerous Reflections is a charming and dramatic young adult novel with an interesting take on time travel. I enjoyed the time travel portions of the story the most. I loved that the story explored different eras of history. The historical settings, characters, and cultures were vividly portrayed in addition to possessing story lines that were intriguing and suspenseful. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself taking a legitimate interest in learning history due to Alexis' personality and enthusiasm.
A majority of the book has a contemporary feel that kept my attention by having dramatic conflict with great characterization. Alexis is a teenager that has to deal with the pressures of high school in addition to family problems. Her character was frustrating at times but I enjoyed seeing her grow and develop as the story progressed.
I adored the supporting characters and the relationships they formed with the main character. The school antagonists were gasp worthy vindictive. There were a few messages about dealing with bullying I didn't agree with because they felt too understated to me. However, I liked that it portrayed Alexis as gaining confidence with the more trials she faced and overcame.
The other antagonists were mysterious and I'm curious to see what their main goal and agenda is. The time traveling aspect was only partially explained so I'm looking forward to reading more about it along with their unique abilities.
There are few times when third person omniscient narration is used. It wasn't excessive but it stood out as odd to me mainly because I rarely come across it. It gave an interesting rounded experience to the highly charged emotional conflict. The story is fast paced and the drama never lets up completely creating an engaging story that made me feel a myriad of emotions as it progressed through each scene.
I especially liked that it explored various issues like divorce, bullying, dating, and identity with a wholesome yet mindful perspective. I appreciate that it didn't get too heavy and the scenes were well balanced. So while it might take an agnsty tone transition to sadness there was always a lighthearted fun scene before returning to the suspenseful action.
Dangerous Reflections is a wonderful young adult novel that weaves historical and contemporary themes into an engaging dramatic story and I look forward to continuing the trilogy.
[Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
Dangerous Reflections is a charming and dramatic young adult novel with an interesting take on time travel. I enjoyed the time travel portions of the story the most. I loved that the story explored different eras of history. The historical settings, characters, and cultures were vividly portrayed in addition to possessing story lines that were intriguing and suspenseful. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself taking a legitimate interest in learning history due to Alexis' personality and enthusiasm.
A majority of the book has a contemporary feel that kept my attention by having dramatic conflict with great characterization. Alexis is a teenager that has to deal with the pressures of high school in addition to family problems. Her character was frustrating at times but I enjoyed seeing her grow and develop as the story progressed.
I adored the supporting characters and the relationships they formed with the main character. The school antagonists were gasp worthy vindictive. There were a few messages about dealing with bullying I didn't agree with because they felt too understated to me. However, I liked that it portrayed Alexis as gaining confidence with the more trials she faced and overcame.
The other antagonists were mysterious and I'm curious to see what their main goal and agenda is. The time traveling aspect was only partially explained so I'm looking forward to reading more about it along with their unique abilities.
There are few times when third person omniscient narration is used. It wasn't excessive but it stood out as odd to me mainly because I rarely come across it. It gave an interesting rounded experience to the highly charged emotional conflict. The story is fast paced and the drama never lets up completely creating an engaging story that made me feel a myriad of emotions as it progressed through each scene.
I especially liked that it explored various issues like divorce, bullying, dating, and identity with a wholesome yet mindful perspective. I appreciate that it didn't get too heavy and the scenes were well balanced. So while it might take an agnsty tone transition to sadness there was always a lighthearted fun scene before returning to the suspenseful action.
Dangerous Reflections is a wonderful young adult novel that weaves historical and contemporary themes into an engaging dramatic story and I look forward to continuing the trilogy.
[Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
February 3, 2015
Hi there reader!
Let me start by saying that I was given this book for free, in exchange for an honest review and really thought it could go either way. This book is defiantly for the YA reader, but it did keep my interest. Knowing it is the beginning of a series made the incomplete ending easy to bare. I'm not going to give a synopsis of the book, but I will tell you what I liked, and did not like about it; if you want more specific details...read the book.
Okay, what I liked was that it was about time travel (it's kind of my "thing"). The main character, Alex, travels in time, through mirrors, to stop the villain's puppet (not really a puppet, just the guy that does the "dirty work" for him), "Drifter" (his real name is not mentioned) from changing history. I like the fact that the author goes into details about where Alex travels to and how she feels while she is there. The fact that "Drifter"'s name is not mentioned makes me want to read more in this series, just to figure out who this guy is (I have an idea, but I could be wrong). I enjoyed Alex's character development through this book. She is a freshman in high school so, of course, she has ups and downs, and highs and lows, and I thought it was handled well.
I do have some things that I wasn't a fan of, but that could just be because it's a YA style and I thought it could have been done a tad differently. When Alex travels for the first time, she completely accepts it and knows what she has to do. Yes, she is a history nut and figured it out, but it just seemed rushed that she knew how to get home as well. When she travels the second time and is found out by someone, that someone just accepts her ability and moves on to help her, them both knowing it would happen again. Don't get me started on how she got the part in the school play! Seriously, that doesn't happen, lol.
As a whole, I did like this book and would have gladly paid the 99c for the Kindle Edition on Amazon. I would have paid for the Mass Market Paperback Edition too, but I don't know if I'd go so far as to pay for the Trade Paperback Edition, I could see where a YA reader would though. I might buy the Hardcover, if it was in the bargain section of my local bookstore so it would look nice on my shelf though, but only if the others in this series are worth it too. For the first book in a series it did leave me wanting more (which is what a good series is supposed to do), and I will probably go back and read it again in the future...or the past...
Let me start by saying that I was given this book for free, in exchange for an honest review and really thought it could go either way. This book is defiantly for the YA reader, but it did keep my interest. Knowing it is the beginning of a series made the incomplete ending easy to bare. I'm not going to give a synopsis of the book, but I will tell you what I liked, and did not like about it; if you want more specific details...read the book.
Okay, what I liked was that it was about time travel (it's kind of my "thing"). The main character, Alex, travels in time, through mirrors, to stop the villain's puppet (not really a puppet, just the guy that does the "dirty work" for him), "Drifter" (his real name is not mentioned) from changing history. I like the fact that the author goes into details about where Alex travels to and how she feels while she is there. The fact that "Drifter"'s name is not mentioned makes me want to read more in this series, just to figure out who this guy is (I have an idea, but I could be wrong). I enjoyed Alex's character development through this book. She is a freshman in high school so, of course, she has ups and downs, and highs and lows, and I thought it was handled well.
I do have some things that I wasn't a fan of, but that could just be because it's a YA style and I thought it could have been done a tad differently. When Alex travels for the first time, she completely accepts it and knows what she has to do. Yes, she is a history nut and figured it out, but it just seemed rushed that she knew how to get home as well. When she travels the second time and is found out by someone, that someone just accepts her ability and moves on to help her, them both knowing it would happen again. Don't get me started on how she got the part in the school play! Seriously, that doesn't happen, lol.
As a whole, I did like this book and would have gladly paid the 99c for the Kindle Edition on Amazon. I would have paid for the Mass Market Paperback Edition too, but I don't know if I'd go so far as to pay for the Trade Paperback Edition, I could see where a YA reader would though. I might buy the Hardcover, if it was in the bargain section of my local bookstore so it would look nice on my shelf though, but only if the others in this series are worth it too. For the first book in a series it did leave me wanting more (which is what a good series is supposed to do), and I will probably go back and read it again in the future...or the past...
June 25, 2014
Alex has the ability to time travel via mirrors. She can't pick the time or place, but all the women she morphs into are very, very familiar, especially around the eyes ... she soon realizes that the lives she's jumping into are ones that she lived before! I love the entwining of reincarnation and time travel. It's an original idea that I don't think has been explored before.
Alex is also a teenager dealing with all kinds of very real issues. Her father walked out on her family, and her mom is forced to move them to a different town and into her rich aunt's guesthouse. Things aren't as dire as they seem, however. Turns out that she loves living in the guesthouse, and being part of her aunt's life. She also meets a great group of friends at school and discovers she has a talent for acting.
And ... she's lucky enough to be lab partners with Beau, a hot guy who happens to be dating a nasty piece of work named Catelyn. Is Beau being nice to Alex just because he wants homework help? Or does he harbor stronger feelings for her? I thought the way this relationship progressed was very realistic. Alex seems a bit sheltered and naive for her age, perfect bait for Beau and Catelyn. I was so happy when she starts to stand up for herself, instead of letting Catelyn push her around.
The time travel segments were really interesting. Alex is a history buff, so it makes sense that she quickly finds her footing in every time she's thrown into. She's everything from a courtesan in Venice (an uncomfortable vocation for a teenage girl to be in, but no worries, nothing sexy happens while she's there) to a elderly slave woman on Jefferson's plantation. Two mysterious figures, Master and Drifter, hope to stop Alex from time traveling. They want to change history, and Alex is there every time to thwart them. There are a few close shaves, however. I wasn't sure she would be able to leave the plantation at all ... gulp!
There were a few things that bothered me: I wanted to know more about Drifter, especially since he mindlessly took Master's orders. I just didn't buy it without knowing more about his life, pre-Master. The slaves on the plantation also seemed ... a tad too happy to be realistic.
The novel ends on a real cliffhanger. I can't wait to read the next book!
Alex is also a teenager dealing with all kinds of very real issues. Her father walked out on her family, and her mom is forced to move them to a different town and into her rich aunt's guesthouse. Things aren't as dire as they seem, however. Turns out that she loves living in the guesthouse, and being part of her aunt's life. She also meets a great group of friends at school and discovers she has a talent for acting.
And ... she's lucky enough to be lab partners with Beau, a hot guy who happens to be dating a nasty piece of work named Catelyn. Is Beau being nice to Alex just because he wants homework help? Or does he harbor stronger feelings for her? I thought the way this relationship progressed was very realistic. Alex seems a bit sheltered and naive for her age, perfect bait for Beau and Catelyn. I was so happy when she starts to stand up for herself, instead of letting Catelyn push her around.
The time travel segments were really interesting. Alex is a history buff, so it makes sense that she quickly finds her footing in every time she's thrown into. She's everything from a courtesan in Venice (an uncomfortable vocation for a teenage girl to be in, but no worries, nothing sexy happens while she's there) to a elderly slave woman on Jefferson's plantation. Two mysterious figures, Master and Drifter, hope to stop Alex from time traveling. They want to change history, and Alex is there every time to thwart them. There are a few close shaves, however. I wasn't sure she would be able to leave the plantation at all ... gulp!
There were a few things that bothered me: I wanted to know more about Drifter, especially since he mindlessly took Master's orders. I just didn't buy it without knowing more about his life, pre-Master. The slaves on the plantation also seemed ... a tad too happy to be realistic.
The novel ends on a real cliffhanger. I can't wait to read the next book!
November 2, 2011
Shay Fabbro's novel Dangerous Reflections is a spirited novel following a teenager as she deals with high school, dating, bulling, and a strange new ability that adds more pressure than everything else combined.
Alexis Davenport's life is torn apart when her father leaves and takes all of the money with him. Alex and her mom are forced to move across the state to live with her aunt, leaving their home and friends behind.
The always studious Alex struggles to adjust to her new school. She can't afford the fancy clothing and gadgets of the other students--not even a cell phone.
Before long, Alex catches the attention of the most popular girl in school--and not in a good way--when Alex is assigned as her boyfriend's lab partner. Convinced that Alex is out to steal her boyfriend, she sets out to make Alex miserable.
As if that is not enough, Alex has recently discovered a new talent--she can travel to other times in history. Unfortunately, she has no control over the power. It simply takes her from the present, transporting her through the mirror.
Alex quickly realizes she is being sent to these times in order to prevent another time traveler from changing the past. Not an easy task for anyone, especially a teen in a new school.
Alex tackles the challenges before her with the excitement and vigor of a child, the historical knowledge of a well-educated adult, and the attitude classic of a teen.
Fabbro creates engrossing, realistic characters. The historical locals were well researched, and managed to teach me a thing or two (which is not a bad quality for a book aimed at young adults).
One word of warning: the book is the first of a series, and the ending leaves you with the same feeling as those awful three words known to complete a season of so many television shows: to be continued.
I know I, for one, will be up front in the line for book two of the Alex Davenport series. :-)
Alexis Davenport's life is torn apart when her father leaves and takes all of the money with him. Alex and her mom are forced to move across the state to live with her aunt, leaving their home and friends behind.
The always studious Alex struggles to adjust to her new school. She can't afford the fancy clothing and gadgets of the other students--not even a cell phone.
Before long, Alex catches the attention of the most popular girl in school--and not in a good way--when Alex is assigned as her boyfriend's lab partner. Convinced that Alex is out to steal her boyfriend, she sets out to make Alex miserable.
As if that is not enough, Alex has recently discovered a new talent--she can travel to other times in history. Unfortunately, she has no control over the power. It simply takes her from the present, transporting her through the mirror.
Alex quickly realizes she is being sent to these times in order to prevent another time traveler from changing the past. Not an easy task for anyone, especially a teen in a new school.
Alex tackles the challenges before her with the excitement and vigor of a child, the historical knowledge of a well-educated adult, and the attitude classic of a teen.
Fabbro creates engrossing, realistic characters. The historical locals were well researched, and managed to teach me a thing or two (which is not a bad quality for a book aimed at young adults).
One word of warning: the book is the first of a series, and the ending leaves you with the same feeling as those awful three words known to complete a season of so many television shows: to be continued.
I know I, for one, will be up front in the line for book two of the Alex Davenport series. :-)
September 4, 2014
Author Shay West has given confidence and purpose to a discontented and disappointed teenager in “Dangerous Reflections”. Originally self-published in 2011, after undergoing a comprehensive edit and a great cover design, Booktrope Publishing is re-releasing this fresh coming of age series.
I am a huge fan of historical fiction, especially those that blend contemporary story-lines.
For such a young person, Alex Davenport has already had too many disappointments in her young life—her parent’s marriage disintegrated, her father is a drunk and disserted them, leaving them penniless. Alex and her mother must leave their home, and become dependent on the charity of her successful aunt. While en route to her aunt’s, Alex looks in the mirror at a public restroom and sees another face. But it happens so quickly, she brushes it off as fatigue and anxiety. To add to her stress, unfortunately she encounters scrutiny and ridicule at her new school. But later, while looking at herself in the mirror, she sees that other girl again. While studying the face, she is transported back in time. Thankfully, Alex’s love of history is a help in navigating her way because as she gets more accustomed to this paranormal gift, she is able to escape to 16th century Venice, ancient Ireland and the U.S. Civil War… as other girls!
Unlike so many other young adult female characters in books these days, Shay West has given us a young protagonist who turns teenage angst, insecurities and disappointments into a stronger, smarter and likeable young heroine. “Dangerous Reflections” is book I can gladly recommend to my pre-teen daughter and those young at heart. Looking forward to book 2, Twisted Reflections.
I am a huge fan of historical fiction, especially those that blend contemporary story-lines.
For such a young person, Alex Davenport has already had too many disappointments in her young life—her parent’s marriage disintegrated, her father is a drunk and disserted them, leaving them penniless. Alex and her mother must leave their home, and become dependent on the charity of her successful aunt. While en route to her aunt’s, Alex looks in the mirror at a public restroom and sees another face. But it happens so quickly, she brushes it off as fatigue and anxiety. To add to her stress, unfortunately she encounters scrutiny and ridicule at her new school. But later, while looking at herself in the mirror, she sees that other girl again. While studying the face, she is transported back in time. Thankfully, Alex’s love of history is a help in navigating her way because as she gets more accustomed to this paranormal gift, she is able to escape to 16th century Venice, ancient Ireland and the U.S. Civil War… as other girls!
Unlike so many other young adult female characters in books these days, Shay West has given us a young protagonist who turns teenage angst, insecurities and disappointments into a stronger, smarter and likeable young heroine. “Dangerous Reflections” is book I can gladly recommend to my pre-teen daughter and those young at heart. Looking forward to book 2, Twisted Reflections.
June 22, 2014
*Advanced copy provided by the publisher in exchange of a review*
This book is quite fun to read. The concept of the story is unique, I've never read anything like this.
It follows the story of Alexis Davenport, a high school student with a special gift. She must figure out how to take advantage of her gift in order to maintain the course of history and prevent it from being altered.
I've got to admit, I have put off the book several times not because of disinterest, but
because I had gone into some sort of reader's block. I was so happy when I got over it, and I started to read the book again.
Alexis's character is easy to understand. It's not too complex and not too plain either. However, I hated that she was too easy to persuade, it made her appear weak and vulnerable. I guess it's a character flaw. So when she started to grow some backbone and stand up for herself, I cheered so hard for her. Her "other personas" were pretty interesting too.
I liked Jennifer's character. She's a great supporting character, especially for Alexis. However, I wish I could get some more background to her personality, same goes to their other friends.
I also felt like maybe we should see more background about Drake and James.
I'm really curious about the Drifter. I want to know what's his deal is. I hope I could get more in the next book.
I'm assuming there's a next book because it ended in such beautiful cliffhanger. I love the way Shay writes. It's so realistic and easy to grasp. I can't wait to read the next one!!
This book is quite fun to read. The concept of the story is unique, I've never read anything like this.
It follows the story of Alexis Davenport, a high school student with a special gift. She must figure out how to take advantage of her gift in order to maintain the course of history and prevent it from being altered.
I've got to admit, I have put off the book several times not because of disinterest, but
because I had gone into some sort of reader's block. I was so happy when I got over it, and I started to read the book again.
Alexis's character is easy to understand. It's not too complex and not too plain either. However, I hated that she was too easy to persuade, it made her appear weak and vulnerable. I guess it's a character flaw. So when she started to grow some backbone and stand up for herself, I cheered so hard for her. Her "other personas" were pretty interesting too.
I liked Jennifer's character. She's a great supporting character, especially for Alexis. However, I wish I could get some more background to her personality, same goes to their other friends.
I also felt like maybe we should see more background about Drake and James.
I'm really curious about the Drifter. I want to know what's his deal is. I hope I could get more in the next book.
I'm assuming there's a next book because it ended in such beautiful cliffhanger. I love the way Shay writes. It's so realistic and easy to grasp. I can't wait to read the next one!!
December 26, 2014
Firstly, thank you so much to Pam of Booktrope for sending me a copy of this book. Hugs!
I'm typing this literally only a few minutes after I finished reading Dangerous Reflections, so forgive me if I'm rambling because I still can't get over how amazing that book was.
Dangerous Reflections follows history buff Alex Davenport, a seemingly normal teenage girl, who moves to a rich neighborhood after her father left her and Patrica, her mother. My first impression of Alex was that she was ungrateful and bratty, but after thinking it through, I realized she had all the right to act that way. Her dad just left them, for Pete's sake. Add teenage hormones in there and BAM! But seriously, having a protagonist that wasn't a typical good girl who wears skirts, and is popular and nice at the same time was great. I felt like I could really identify with Alex.
The book has a lot of history in it, which made me think, "We get to read YA and learn at the same time? This is fantastic!" I honestly did not know about any of the people (such as Veronica Franco, Jefferson Davis, etc.) until I read this. What makes history stand out in this book has got to be the way it's written. Shay West is a master at describing, at setting the scene. I loved how clear and vibrant it was. She wrote everything wonderfully, without overdescribing (thank you!), even to the smallest details.
Full review on my blog.
I'm typing this literally only a few minutes after I finished reading Dangerous Reflections, so forgive me if I'm rambling because I still can't get over how amazing that book was.
Dangerous Reflections follows history buff Alex Davenport, a seemingly normal teenage girl, who moves to a rich neighborhood after her father left her and Patrica, her mother. My first impression of Alex was that she was ungrateful and bratty, but after thinking it through, I realized she had all the right to act that way. Her dad just left them, for Pete's sake. Add teenage hormones in there and BAM! But seriously, having a protagonist that wasn't a typical good girl who wears skirts, and is popular and nice at the same time was great. I felt like I could really identify with Alex.
The book has a lot of history in it, which made me think, "We get to read YA and learn at the same time? This is fantastic!" I honestly did not know about any of the people (such as Veronica Franco, Jefferson Davis, etc.) until I read this. What makes history stand out in this book has got to be the way it's written. Shay West is a master at describing, at setting the scene. I loved how clear and vibrant it was. She wrote everything wonderfully, without overdescribing (thank you!), even to the smallest details.
Full review on my blog.
March 10, 2015
Reviewed by Candie from Highway-Y.A.
http://highway-ya.blogspot.com
I was sent this free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Despite being moved across country, losing all contact with her friends and having to live with her rich aunt Karen who she is not quite sure wants them in her guest house, Alex’s life is going great! Actually, although she doesn’t know it yet those are the least of her worries for where she is going or what she is moving toward!
Of course it means a new school, making new friends, being the new girl and all those dorky things that come with a teen and a new place to live. Not to mention it’s a place that feels like it is on the other side of the world in a land far away!
Where she lives is not the only thing that feels like a land far away! Things start changing when Alex looks in the mirror, she doesn’t see herself but someone else from another time.
Time travel, can someone really do that? Her answer comes quickly as the first image comes again a second time and she is transported back in time to solve a mystery for the person who appears in the mirror. Was this a onetime thing or is there a pattern forming she wonders when the second person appears in the mirror. Is there something more sinister afoot?
The only way for you to find out is to start your own adventure with Alex Davenport and find out why her Reflections are Dangerous!
This was definitely worth a read and I look forward to how Alex’s next adventures appear!
You might also like:
http://highway-ya.blogspot.com
I was sent this free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Despite being moved across country, losing all contact with her friends and having to live with her rich aunt Karen who she is not quite sure wants them in her guest house, Alex’s life is going great! Actually, although she doesn’t know it yet those are the least of her worries for where she is going or what she is moving toward!
Of course it means a new school, making new friends, being the new girl and all those dorky things that come with a teen and a new place to live. Not to mention it’s a place that feels like it is on the other side of the world in a land far away!
Where she lives is not the only thing that feels like a land far away! Things start changing when Alex looks in the mirror, she doesn’t see herself but someone else from another time.
Time travel, can someone really do that? Her answer comes quickly as the first image comes again a second time and she is transported back in time to solve a mystery for the person who appears in the mirror. Was this a onetime thing or is there a pattern forming she wonders when the second person appears in the mirror. Is there something more sinister afoot?
The only way for you to find out is to start your own adventure with Alex Davenport and find out why her Reflections are Dangerous!
This was definitely worth a read and I look forward to how Alex’s next adventures appear!
You might also like:
March 8, 2012
When I first read the synopsis for Dangerous Reflections I was very intrigued. The story looked unique, and I was excited to get a copy from the author to read. I was not disappointed! Dangerous Reflections is a very fun and original read, and I am excited for book two in the series.
After Alexis Davenport's father walks out, she is forced to move with her mother. Already angry about moving and leaving her friends, she now has to deal with being the new kid in school. One day, Alexis accidentally is sent back into the past and inhabitants someone else's body. Not able to control her new, special power, Alexis can not control where she goes. All she does know is that she has to stop another time traveler from changing the past and screwing up the future. Eventually she starts to figure things out, and it was exciting to try to understand why this was happening to her!
What I really liked about the story is Alexis' transformation. She is going through so much and you can really feel her pain throughout the story but she grows and becomes a very strong and brave character!
For someone who loves history, I thought this book was well researched about the different past places that Alexis visited. It was very interesting and I even learned a thing or two!
The cliffhanger was very exciting and I can't wait to continue Alexis' adventures in book two. I would recommend this book to history nerds (like me!) or anyone just looking for a really good and fun read!
After Alexis Davenport's father walks out, she is forced to move with her mother. Already angry about moving and leaving her friends, she now has to deal with being the new kid in school. One day, Alexis accidentally is sent back into the past and inhabitants someone else's body. Not able to control her new, special power, Alexis can not control where she goes. All she does know is that she has to stop another time traveler from changing the past and screwing up the future. Eventually she starts to figure things out, and it was exciting to try to understand why this was happening to her!
What I really liked about the story is Alexis' transformation. She is going through so much and you can really feel her pain throughout the story but she grows and becomes a very strong and brave character!
For someone who loves history, I thought this book was well researched about the different past places that Alexis visited. It was very interesting and I even learned a thing or two!
The cliffhanger was very exciting and I can't wait to continue Alexis' adventures in book two. I would recommend this book to history nerds (like me!) or anyone just looking for a really good and fun read!
August 6, 2016
When I was in high school, we had to write an essay on which historical figure we would talk to if we had the chance. I was never able to pick one, and my essay was a rambling list of people that I'd want to talk to. (Tolkien, Einstein, Thomas Jefferson, Tesla to name a few.) What does this have to do with Dangerous Reflections you ask? I'm so insanely jealous of Alex. I would love to go back in time and witness history as it was made. But I would not want to face the rest of Alex's story.
Dangerous Reflections is a haunting tale that swept me along with it's beautiful prose and amazing cast of characters. Alex was a good main character, and I felt like she was a perfect match for the story. A lot of growth is shown by her in this book, and I loved following her journey. There were times that I wanted to show her what was in front of her, though. The secondary characters also shine as individuals with their own developed voices.
There is enough drama to keep your attention without invoking eye rolls left and right. That was so much appreciated. The flow works really well, and I didn't experience any drag in the story. The story comes to a satisfying close, and I was so glad that I had the pleasure of reading Dangerous Reflections when I finished it. Fans of fantasy and time travel will be drawn to this book!
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review with no compensation.
Dangerous Reflections is a haunting tale that swept me along with it's beautiful prose and amazing cast of characters. Alex was a good main character, and I felt like she was a perfect match for the story. A lot of growth is shown by her in this book, and I loved following her journey. There were times that I wanted to show her what was in front of her, though. The secondary characters also shine as individuals with their own developed voices.
There is enough drama to keep your attention without invoking eye rolls left and right. That was so much appreciated. The flow works really well, and I didn't experience any drag in the story. The story comes to a satisfying close, and I was so glad that I had the pleasure of reading Dangerous Reflections when I finished it. Fans of fantasy and time travel will be drawn to this book!
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review with no compensation.
July 2, 2015
Dangerous Reflections is the first book in the Adventures of Alexis Davenport series. I received my E-book copy of this book thanks to Net Galley. This is really a great YA read - it combines history, adventure, real-life relationships and what it is like to grow up. From the start, you meet the character of Alexis, who prefers to be called Alex. She is moving to a new town and is not happy to leave her friends and start completely new as a high school freshman. Right from the start, I liked Alex. She isn't perfect, doesn't always know what she wants, and she is very smart. Alex is passionate about history and has a lot of goals, which is the kind of YA character I like. Her hard work and knowledge make her a great character for readers to follow. :)
Alex's world changes one day when she looks into the mirror and her reflection is not her own. She begins seeing girls from the past, a different time. For Alex who loves history so much, this is particularly interesting. This leads to a series of adventures for Alex. I absolutely love the concept of this book. I've always liked books that are about time travel and history and this one is written so well. You could tell that the plot was very well-thought out and questions I had about things were answered as I read. Besides Alex, I liked the originality that the supporting characters bring as well. I highly recommend this YA story! :) I am already reading the sequel and excited to see what will happen next!
Alex's world changes one day when she looks into the mirror and her reflection is not her own. She begins seeing girls from the past, a different time. For Alex who loves history so much, this is particularly interesting. This leads to a series of adventures for Alex. I absolutely love the concept of this book. I've always liked books that are about time travel and history and this one is written so well. You could tell that the plot was very well-thought out and questions I had about things were answered as I read. Besides Alex, I liked the originality that the supporting characters bring as well. I highly recommend this YA story! :) I am already reading the sequel and excited to see what will happen next!
August 10, 2016
Dangerous Reflections, (The Adventures of Alexis Davenport Book 1) By Shay West
Alex has a lot of problems, her father ran out, leaving mother and daughter with nothing. They need to leave their home town and move to a new town, half-way across the state. Alex needs to start a new life and a new school for the start of High School. Luckily, she makes some good friends, quickly. She will need them; she has two serious enemies, the one she knows, that does her best to make Alex’s high school experience miserable and one that she doesn’t know who is much more dangerous.
A very interesting talent is discovered, where Alex is able to go back in time. She gets pulled through the mirror to different times in order to keep history running along the correct track. There is very real danger involved and she doesn’t go to the past as the important people, but rather as the lower level personage that works to coax history into the proper path instead of forcing the issue.
The emotional rollercoaster of a young teen is very well represented as well as the normal teen feelings of isolation and the fear that your parents will not understand, so you need to handle everything yourself. All this while her mother and everyone else who is interested in her welfare do their best to be supportive and protective (when needed).
Alex has a lot of problems, her father ran out, leaving mother and daughter with nothing. They need to leave their home town and move to a new town, half-way across the state. Alex needs to start a new life and a new school for the start of High School. Luckily, she makes some good friends, quickly. She will need them; she has two serious enemies, the one she knows, that does her best to make Alex’s high school experience miserable and one that she doesn’t know who is much more dangerous.
A very interesting talent is discovered, where Alex is able to go back in time. She gets pulled through the mirror to different times in order to keep history running along the correct track. There is very real danger involved and she doesn’t go to the past as the important people, but rather as the lower level personage that works to coax history into the proper path instead of forcing the issue.
The emotional rollercoaster of a young teen is very well represented as well as the normal teen feelings of isolation and the fear that your parents will not understand, so you need to handle everything yourself. All this while her mother and everyone else who is interested in her welfare do their best to be supportive and protective (when needed).
January 8, 2013
This book sucked me in as though I were Alex and the book was my mirror! I absolutely love this great story about a high school freshman named Alex who, due to her parents separating, has to move away from her home and friends and live with an aunt she barely knows with her mom. On the road trip to Aunt Karen's house, she uses the bathroom at a Burger King and when she looks in the mirror, she sees someone else looking back. As the story progresses, Alex finds out you CAN go through the looking glass, and she begins traveling through time, which she loves as she is a huge history buff, and slowly realizes that there is something strange going on. Things that happened during the time she travels to is happening.....but not when it is supposed to. Who is trying to rewrite history? Why is Alex the one somehow chosen to try and stop them? You have GOT to read this book to find out! Join Alex as she tries to save the history we know and love, while also dealing with normal high school woes such as bullying and falling for the jock boyfriend of the most popular girl in school...who happens to hate Alex's guts! Love this book and will be starting book two first thing tomorrow morning! Can't wait to see where Alex goes next!
July 20, 2014
I love historical fiction. In this case we have a teen, Alexis Davenport whose father has deserted her and her mother taking all of their money with them. They are forced to live with an aunt in her guest house. She is starting high school, which I itself is traumatic enough. She makes a couple of friends and then a very bad bully, enemy. One of the most popular girls is out to get her. Add to all of that the fact she keeps seeing someone else’s reflection in the mirror and you think things can’t get much worse. You would be wrong. Alexis finds herself drawn through the mirror. She soon learns that the history she loves is being altered. It’s a good thing she loves history so much. Now she must do what she has to do to save it, to keep it from being changed.
I was given an electronic copy from the author to read for this review. I definitely want to get a physical copy to put on my shelves. The author has done an excellent job of creating a character that teens will be able to identify with. They will understand so many of the situations she finds herself in and then be able to escape to another world or time period with the character. I believe this is a book that won’t stay on my shelves long. I look forward to the second book as well.
I was given an electronic copy from the author to read for this review. I definitely want to get a physical copy to put on my shelves. The author has done an excellent job of creating a character that teens will be able to identify with. They will understand so many of the situations she finds herself in and then be able to escape to another world or time period with the character. I believe this is a book that won’t stay on my shelves long. I look forward to the second book as well.
July 7, 2014
Alexis is typical teenager who is happy until one day when she comes home from school to a surprise. She learns that she is moving and is unhappy about it. Once she moves things start to happen that she doesn't understand. The first she travels back in time she is shocked and doesn't know exactly what has happened. She remembers what happens to help her figure what to do because she loves history. Little does she know that her love of history will be what is the most important part in helping helping her.
Drifter is a boy who is recruited by an evil man who wants to change history for his own agenda. Drifter learns how to control his time traveling skills. He is suppose to change history to create evil. He is suppose to find out who another traveler is and stop them from keeping history the way is was written.
What Alexis and Drifter don't know is what there true purpose is. Does Drifter finally figure out who the other traveler is? Does Alexis know how to keep herself safe while trying to protect history? What happens when Drifter figures out who the other traveler is? Will history he changed forever?
I would recommend this to my friends.
~ Lisa The Book Nuts
Drifter is a boy who is recruited by an evil man who wants to change history for his own agenda. Drifter learns how to control his time traveling skills. He is suppose to change history to create evil. He is suppose to find out who another traveler is and stop them from keeping history the way is was written.
What Alexis and Drifter don't know is what there true purpose is. Does Drifter finally figure out who the other traveler is? Does Alexis know how to keep herself safe while trying to protect history? What happens when Drifter figures out who the other traveler is? Will history he changed forever?
I would recommend this to my friends.
~ Lisa The Book Nuts
December 16, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have actually read this book last year, but it completely slipped my mind to review it. Hence, I had to re-read the book and review it. So, yay. Thankfully, this book is so dang goooood. It started off with Alexis Davenport having to make major changes in her life, changing schools and friends. What started off as a bad time became even worse when she began seeing reflections of other girls in mirrors. Soon, she realised that she had to go back in time to stop evil from changing the past.
This book actually makes me realise how interesting history can actually be! And I'm so jealous of Alex, who could go back in time and see famous historian figures. Although, I have to admit, at the starting I was actually quite annoyed with Alex as she was quite whiny and immature at times. But after awhile the story plot was actually cool enough just that it triumphs the main character. And the ending, oh man, it was so good but so sad HOW COULD YOU END IT LIKE THAT HAHA. But I shall get to the second book soon enough, wait for my next review ;)
I have actually read this book last year, but it completely slipped my mind to review it. Hence, I had to re-read the book and review it. So, yay. Thankfully, this book is so dang goooood. It started off with Alexis Davenport having to make major changes in her life, changing schools and friends. What started off as a bad time became even worse when she began seeing reflections of other girls in mirrors. Soon, she realised that she had to go back in time to stop evil from changing the past.
This book actually makes me realise how interesting history can actually be! And I'm so jealous of Alex, who could go back in time and see famous historian figures. Although, I have to admit, at the starting I was actually quite annoyed with Alex as she was quite whiny and immature at times. But after awhile the story plot was actually cool enough just that it triumphs the main character. And the ending, oh man, it was so good but so sad HOW COULD YOU END IT LIKE THAT HAHA. But I shall get to the second book soon enough, wait for my next review ;)
July 24, 2014
There is something special about a book that demonstrates just how important paying attention in class can be. Shay West has used the lessons we learn from history as a significant element of the plot that makes up Dangerous Reflections. Throughout the book our protagonist, Alexis Davenport, must overcome multiple challenges aided only by her extensive knowledge and interest in history. When she time-shifts back to key moments in the history of Western Civilisation she is able to take the actions necessary to help save the future we have all lived through.
The book is fast paced enough for any teen to stay interested. It is well written and avoids many of the crutches authors can fall back on. I particularly liked the way Shay was able to combine the typical 21st Century teenager, complete with tantrums, lack of attention and anger with someone who steps up to the mark when they need to. This story was complete, but it didn't end - there will be more to come and I'm looking forward to other adventures with Alexis.
The book is fast paced enough for any teen to stay interested. It is well written and avoids many of the crutches authors can fall back on. I particularly liked the way Shay was able to combine the typical 21st Century teenager, complete with tantrums, lack of attention and anger with someone who steps up to the mark when they need to. This story was complete, but it didn't end - there will be more to come and I'm looking forward to other adventures with Alexis.
January 7, 2015
I received this book in return for an honest review.
I know I said in a previous review that I wouldn't read anymore time traveling books, but I'm SO glad I read this one! It kept me wanting more and kept me enthralled. It was marvelously and smoothly written. It didn't leave me with endless questions, it just left me with "Oh my gosh I need the next book now!" Haha. I know Alexis is the main character and all, but I must say, I think my favorite character is Paul because he just cracks me up. All the characters are great, really. I like how you get to really know them. Loved everything about this book, can't wait to read book two.
I know I said in a previous review that I wouldn't read anymore time traveling books, but I'm SO glad I read this one! It kept me wanting more and kept me enthralled. It was marvelously and smoothly written. It didn't leave me with endless questions, it just left me with "Oh my gosh I need the next book now!" Haha. I know Alexis is the main character and all, but I must say, I think my favorite character is Paul because he just cracks me up. All the characters are great, really. I like how you get to really know them. Loved everything about this book, can't wait to read book two.
August 12, 2012
I have to be honest and tell you... I wasn't quite getting into this book from the beginning. The author sets up the story in a way that is all to familiar to many of us. As Alex (Alexis) our heroine finds here way in her new life the reason for the story unfolded and that grabbed my attention. It grabbed me so hard I read the book in one sitting (with short breaks for snaks and bathroom).
If you enjoy YA coming of age stories, this young woman's story will drag you around by the neck, showing you things you could never imagine doing on your own.
FTC Full Disclosure. I received this book from the author, who only asked for a fair and honest review.
If you enjoy YA coming of age stories, this young woman's story will drag you around by the neck, showing you things you could never imagine doing on your own.
FTC Full Disclosure. I received this book from the author, who only asked for a fair and honest review.
October 25, 2015
** A free copy of the book was provided in exchange for an honest review. **
I'm a sucker for time-travel and once that took place I was hooked. I enjoyed the historical element with the time-traveling and it merged beautifully with the anxieties and complexities of the life and drama of teenagers.
I'm a sucker for time-travel and once that took place I was hooked. I enjoyed the historical element with the time-traveling and it merged beautifully with the anxieties and complexities of the life and drama of teenagers.
October 25, 2012
I loved this book! I mean yes the first in few chapters Alex is a way upset about her dad, but past that part it gets oh so good!
August 1, 2014
Review up on my blog: notwerkinghereplease.blogspot.com
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews