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The Afterworld Saga #1
Aftermath
After losing her father, Emma Bennett moves to her aunt’s small town of Westport to finish out her senior year of high school. Emma wants to forget the pain and loss of the past few weeks, finding relief in the company of Ben Parker—a local boy who she has an instant attraction and uncanny connection with. When Ben seems a little too preoccupied with other responsibilities and has no time for her, Emma turns to the town’s hottest flirt—Lucas Crandon—for affection. Unfortunately, she realizes a little too late that, sometimes, bad boys really can be bad for you.
Life as an undercover agent for the Afterworld’s Bureau of Investigation isn’t an easy job. When Ben Parker finds his soul mate, Emma, in a small town, he finds himself forced to choose between doing his job or rekindling a relationship with the love of his existence. After Ben is notified that a notorious immortal is loose somewhere near Westport, he realizes that his love life will just have to wait. There is a criminal to apprehend before he can have his girl.
When lives are at stake and immortals are on the loose, can two soul mates find their happy ever after?
Life as an undercover agent for the Afterworld’s Bureau of Investigation isn’t an easy job. When Ben Parker finds his soul mate, Emma, in a small town, he finds himself forced to choose between doing his job or rekindling a relationship with the love of his existence. After Ben is notified that a notorious immortal is loose somewhere near Westport, he realizes that his love life will just have to wait. There is a criminal to apprehend before he can have his girl.
When lives are at stake and immortals are on the loose, can two soul mates find their happy ever after?
380 pages, Paperback
First published December 2, 2014
181 people are currently reading
898 people want to read
About the author
Sandy Goldsworthy
7 books100 followersSandy Goldsworthy was raised in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, blocks from the rocky shores of Lake Michigan. As a child, she fantasized about becoming an author. She jotted story lines in spiral notebooks and drew images of characters that never came to life. Her passion for putting pen to paper began when her high school English teacher inspired her to be more descriptive in her work. Ever since, Sandy dabbled in creative writing, searching for that perfect shade of red and that character you want to get to know.
Admittedly, Sandy is addicted to coffee and dark chocolate, and is obsessed with all things paranormal. She records more movies and television shows than is humanly possible to watch in a lifetime, and swears there's a ghost in her house. When not writing, Sandy can be found curled up on the couch nose-deep into a book, or trying to catch up on that recorded season of some paranormal series.
Sandy graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, where she majored in marketing. She spends her days managing corporate client programs, and her nights and weekends drafting new plot lines in spiral notebooks. She resides in southeastern Wisconsin with her husband, two children, and an energetic puppy.
Her first novel, Aftermath, was released by Clean Teen Publishing in December 2014.
Admittedly, Sandy is addicted to coffee and dark chocolate, and is obsessed with all things paranormal. She records more movies and television shows than is humanly possible to watch in a lifetime, and swears there's a ghost in her house. When not writing, Sandy can be found curled up on the couch nose-deep into a book, or trying to catch up on that recorded season of some paranormal series.
Sandy graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, where she majored in marketing. She spends her days managing corporate client programs, and her nights and weekends drafting new plot lines in spiral notebooks. She resides in southeastern Wisconsin with her husband, two children, and an energetic puppy.
Her first novel, Aftermath, was released by Clean Teen Publishing in December 2014.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 14, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I just can't believe how such an excellent concept that should be riddled with excitement and mystery could be turned into something so absolutely boring. Yet somehow, that's exactly what this author did. This novel had the potential to be brilliant. Instead, we get extremely dull, immature characters and a choppy writing style that left my head aching.
I was extremely disappointed with this novel and it will probably prevent me from seeing it this author again.
I just can't believe how such an excellent concept that should be riddled with excitement and mystery could be turned into something so absolutely boring. Yet somehow, that's exactly what this author did. This novel had the potential to be brilliant. Instead, we get extremely dull, immature characters and a choppy writing style that left my head aching.
I was extremely disappointed with this novel and it will probably prevent me from seeing it this author again.
February 10, 2015
What I liked about this book (I liked it after I put the book down, not at the time) was that it didn't tell you all the facts of what was going on at once. You didn't automatically get all o the background details of who everyone was and what was going on; they were gradually given to you. At the time, this may have caused a bit of frustration when I got a bit confused as to what was going on, but altogether it contributed to the twists of the plot and heart-breaking (and heart-warming) moments of the story just nicely... you didn't expect them and they thus impacted you even more.
The author has managed to incorporate a futuristic world with supernatural characters, a romance story and a mystery (with a psychotic killer who you are always wondering which character it is until the very end)all into one rollercoaster ride of a book. The alternating perspectives gives a real overview of all events that occur!!
I can't wait to see if there is a sequel where the characters lives continue... maybe in another life ;) But I would be happy if this was left as a stand-alone. A must read for everyone!! :)
The author has managed to incorporate a futuristic world with supernatural characters, a romance story and a mystery (with a psychotic killer who you are always wondering which character it is until the very end)all into one rollercoaster ride of a book. The alternating perspectives gives a real overview of all events that occur!!
I can't wait to see if there is a sequel where the characters lives continue... maybe in another life ;) But I would be happy if this was left as a stand-alone. A must read for everyone!! :)
August 7, 2014
This book is an epic love story that transcends even life and death. It will hold you suspended in time from the first page until its conclusion. With the two perspectives you get a real insight to how events are evolving and have you holding your breath to find out if there is a way for this to work out.
New and original this author will take you on a journey that will have you torn between desperately wanting to know what happens and not wanting it to end.
Add it to your TBR list NOW! V""V
New and original this author will take you on a journey that will have you torn between desperately wanting to know what happens and not wanting it to end.
Add it to your TBR list NOW! V""V
May 3, 2020
A book packed with emotion that will stay with you long after you have finished the book. Dying early Ben has been waiting an eternity to be with his wife, Emma again. But even in the immortal world, this can go wrong. This book will tug at your heartstrings. Ms. Goldsworthy knows how to write a book that will have you laughing and crying. Beautiful. I thinks Ms. Goldsworthy has just become one of my favorite authors.
June 18, 2014
This unique story is told from the alternating views of Emma and Ben. A delightful blend of suspense and action is mixed into an epic love story. It's an amazing read!
April 28, 2018
**Review on https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/ **
Emma thought her day couldn't get worse after a fight with her father over the senior trip camp out, but when she is called into the office and informed her father died in a car accident, her life as she knew it was over. She goes to live with her aunt, in a new town and a new school, leaving everything she knew behind. But then she meets Ben.
Ben has been searching for his wife Elizabeth for years while serving as an Immortal Agent, but he had almost given up hope when he learned that his beloved Elizabeth was reborn as Emma.
I will admit that I had a hard time getting into the story and I think it was mostly due to the chapters narrated by Ben. The story is dual narrated from Emma and Ben so that that the reader gets to see both worlds and motivations, and I do absolutely love romances narrated by both love interests. The portion told from Emma was relatable and engaging, you can feel her sorrow and despair, as well as her attempt to heal. Ben and his world was way more complicated and I was just thrown into it with no real backstory or description. I think he is kinda sorta like an angel, since he can see and know all, take the shape of others and put thoughts in heads, as well as make hearts start beating again. After I got the hang of the plot I was more able to read and enjoy the story instead of analyzing every aspect of it.
This was overall a paranormal romance dealing with reincarnation, as well as a mystery interwoven in between the love. The author was able to create a romance that spans time, full of love and loss, while still being a good read for both YA and adult readers. This is just the first in the series so I am interested to see what will play out for Emma and Ben next- I hope it can lead to a happily ever after, but it may not be in the stars.
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance, complimentary copy of this book.
Emma thought her day couldn't get worse after a fight with her father over the senior trip camp out, but when she is called into the office and informed her father died in a car accident, her life as she knew it was over. She goes to live with her aunt, in a new town and a new school, leaving everything she knew behind. But then she meets Ben.
Ben has been searching for his wife Elizabeth for years while serving as an Immortal Agent, but he had almost given up hope when he learned that his beloved Elizabeth was reborn as Emma.
I will admit that I had a hard time getting into the story and I think it was mostly due to the chapters narrated by Ben. The story is dual narrated from Emma and Ben so that that the reader gets to see both worlds and motivations, and I do absolutely love romances narrated by both love interests. The portion told from Emma was relatable and engaging, you can feel her sorrow and despair, as well as her attempt to heal. Ben and his world was way more complicated and I was just thrown into it with no real backstory or description. I think he is kinda sorta like an angel, since he can see and know all, take the shape of others and put thoughts in heads, as well as make hearts start beating again. After I got the hang of the plot I was more able to read and enjoy the story instead of analyzing every aspect of it.
This was overall a paranormal romance dealing with reincarnation, as well as a mystery interwoven in between the love. The author was able to create a romance that spans time, full of love and loss, while still being a good read for both YA and adult readers. This is just the first in the series so I am interested to see what will play out for Emma and Ben next- I hope it can lead to a happily ever after, but it may not be in the stars.
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance, complimentary copy of this book.
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June 22, 2015
I received this ARC e-book from NetGalley and Clear Teen Publishing in exchange of an honest review.
I was completely hooked by page one but ultimately disappointed with the ending until I learned this was the first book in a series.
I’ve been trying to write this review since I finished the book late last week and am having a hardest time putting into words everything that went into the 380 pages it took to create this world of Ben Parker and Emma Bennett.
There is so much packed into each page that the pace is non-stop. That was the first thing that intrigued me about the book. I also liked the fact that the storyline was original to me. You can always read about angels and soulmates but when do you read about agents and life contracts? Where you don’t go to heaven when you die but have the choice instead to help humans reach the end of their contracts without an untimely demise? Or if you have your contract ended early the choice to take another life assignment and try again?
Ben Parker is someone that has lived multiple times but chose to become an agent after his last life ended in the hopes of being there waiting for his wife when she finally completes the life she accepted after killing herself when she lost him to a war. He spent years waiting for her only to miss her again…or did he?
Emma lost her mom at a young age to cancer and has an over-protective father who is afraid to let her be a teenager in fear of losing her like he lost her mother. Unfortunately tragedy sticks and its Emma’s father that is lost when he is hit by a drunk driver crossing the street on his way into work. This sad event leaves Emma with only one family member left, her Aunt Barb. She moves to Lake Bell and tries to move past it all but she never gave thought to the new drama and mystery that would surround her and this small lake town.
There are so many characters in this series but you don’t get overwhelmed by them. Maybe that’s because of how they’re introduced. Ben comes with his agents and partners while Emma has the small group of kids she hangs with that she’s known after years of visiting Lake Bell her with parents. I enjoy that each chapter moves back and forth between Ben and Emma. You get both perspectives and they aren’t the same. Emma is using the rationale of a teenager while Ben is using his experience after decades of undercover work as an agent.
Emma is shy and has lost her confidence with the death of her dad making her an easy target for the town’s bad boy. She knows he isn’t really her type but his non-committal attitude is exactly what she’s looking for until she learns his dad is dating her aunt and a relationship is almost thrust on her.
Ben is playing the friend and keeping the distance but there’s something about Lucas that isn’t right. He’s reading say he’s human but is he? Will Emma be safe around him when Ben isn’t watching? Where does Lucas’ temper come from and why does it vanish just as quickly as it comes? Is he only playing a game, acting like the bad boy because his dad’s a cop or is there something more sinister and revealing about Lucas?
The agents accompanying Ben on this “vacation turned mission” are sort of one sided characters but I could see the point where the author decided to flush them out more and create possible storylines for the next book. Molly will be an interesting character from the minute you read her and Claire is a sweet thing with more of a connection to Emma than initial seen. The third agent to assist Ben is Bianca and from the minute she’s introduced you want to dislike her, there’s just something she’s hiding and I’m not falling for her “I didn’t know” routine. She probably annoyed me most even though she isn’t present from beginning to end.
You get plagued with questions after each chapter and not all of them are answered by the end of the book, I actually has more questions and felt the epilogue at the end was substandard.
I guess my review is that I enjoyed the book and will read the next one that comes out along with the two novellas I found on good reads but I’m left with a feeling of complete unfinishedness (Not a word I know but whatever I made it up) that I hope will dissolve as I delve into the next book.
I was completely hooked by page one but ultimately disappointed with the ending until I learned this was the first book in a series.
I’ve been trying to write this review since I finished the book late last week and am having a hardest time putting into words everything that went into the 380 pages it took to create this world of Ben Parker and Emma Bennett.
There is so much packed into each page that the pace is non-stop. That was the first thing that intrigued me about the book. I also liked the fact that the storyline was original to me. You can always read about angels and soulmates but when do you read about agents and life contracts? Where you don’t go to heaven when you die but have the choice instead to help humans reach the end of their contracts without an untimely demise? Or if you have your contract ended early the choice to take another life assignment and try again?
Ben Parker is someone that has lived multiple times but chose to become an agent after his last life ended in the hopes of being there waiting for his wife when she finally completes the life she accepted after killing herself when she lost him to a war. He spent years waiting for her only to miss her again…or did he?
Emma lost her mom at a young age to cancer and has an over-protective father who is afraid to let her be a teenager in fear of losing her like he lost her mother. Unfortunately tragedy sticks and its Emma’s father that is lost when he is hit by a drunk driver crossing the street on his way into work. This sad event leaves Emma with only one family member left, her Aunt Barb. She moves to Lake Bell and tries to move past it all but she never gave thought to the new drama and mystery that would surround her and this small lake town.
There are so many characters in this series but you don’t get overwhelmed by them. Maybe that’s because of how they’re introduced. Ben comes with his agents and partners while Emma has the small group of kids she hangs with that she’s known after years of visiting Lake Bell her with parents. I enjoy that each chapter moves back and forth between Ben and Emma. You get both perspectives and they aren’t the same. Emma is using the rationale of a teenager while Ben is using his experience after decades of undercover work as an agent.
Emma is shy and has lost her confidence with the death of her dad making her an easy target for the town’s bad boy. She knows he isn’t really her type but his non-committal attitude is exactly what she’s looking for until she learns his dad is dating her aunt and a relationship is almost thrust on her.
Ben is playing the friend and keeping the distance but there’s something about Lucas that isn’t right. He’s reading say he’s human but is he? Will Emma be safe around him when Ben isn’t watching? Where does Lucas’ temper come from and why does it vanish just as quickly as it comes? Is he only playing a game, acting like the bad boy because his dad’s a cop or is there something more sinister and revealing about Lucas?
The agents accompanying Ben on this “vacation turned mission” are sort of one sided characters but I could see the point where the author decided to flush them out more and create possible storylines for the next book. Molly will be an interesting character from the minute you read her and Claire is a sweet thing with more of a connection to Emma than initial seen. The third agent to assist Ben is Bianca and from the minute she’s introduced you want to dislike her, there’s just something she’s hiding and I’m not falling for her “I didn’t know” routine. She probably annoyed me most even though she isn’t present from beginning to end.
You get plagued with questions after each chapter and not all of them are answered by the end of the book, I actually has more questions and felt the epilogue at the end was substandard.
I guess my review is that I enjoyed the book and will read the next one that comes out along with the two novellas I found on good reads but I’m left with a feeling of complete unfinishedness (Not a word I know but whatever I made it up) that I hope will dissolve as I delve into the next book.
July 3, 2015
Brief synopsis:
Ben Parker has found his soul mate in Emma Bennett but will chasing immortal bad guys get in the way of a love that transcends life as we know it?
Review:
Ah, young love. Sandy Goldsworthy’s first book in the Afterworld Saga, Aftermath, is all about overcoming obstacles in the quest to finding your soul mate. It opens up a new paranormal world to readers that is both intriguing and perplexing. There is so much potential to this series. You can almost sense that potential shimmering right there on the surface of the book the entire time. I really had a hard time putting it down and the main reason for this was that the author took her time breaking down the details of the Afterworld to the readers. It was like she was baiting me. She would carefully throw in a small detail as part of her world building and then fail to immediately elaborate on it. Then over the course of a few chapters, she would keep circling back with small explanations as she slowly added more information. It was both exasperating and intriguing at the same time. And there is no doubt that the world that Ms. Goldsworthy is building has some interesting concepts in it. I would caution, however, that the first fifth of the book drug a bit until the main story really took off due to this process. Stick with it, though, because once the book hits its stride, the pace picks up and a secondary story is introduced where the main character, Ben, has to track down a criminal mastermind.
That takes me to my next point. This is a paranormal romance but Ben really needs to work on the romance part. He needs to brush off his romance skills STAT. Throughout the 380 pages this book requires, Ben states several times that Emma, our heroine, is the most important person ever to him and that he needs to focus more of his attention on her. Yeah, that would have been very nice. Ben is admittedly juggling a lot of responsibilities throughout the story: bad guys, babysitting rookies, inexperienced agents, and building his relationship with Emma. Ms. Goldsworthy takes pains to state exactly that in the book just so we know why Ben is a bit neglectful. I still felt, though, that he lacked the intensity that he professed to have. There just wasn’t any urgency to his claims. Of course, there is a pretty good excuse for his lack of urgency but I won’t spoil that for you. In the end, Ben is a worthy hero that we can all look forward to getting to know better throughout the series. Yet the bottom line is that I think the romance could have used a bit more page space while still passing as a “Clean Teen” romance.
After waiting a few days before reviewing this book, I can honestly say that I did enjoy it. I want to know more about the world Ms. Goldsworthy created and I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. The potential is there for a very successful run of novels with Ben and Emma continuing their story along with the other characters that you get to know in Aftermath. I believe this was the author’s first book ever so we can all look forward to her stories only getting better.
tl/dr: I couldn’t put the book down as Ms. Goldsworthy built up the intensity of the book like a slow burn. part romance + part crime drama + part fantasy world = winning combination
*dual first-person perspectives
*adult language/underage drinking and drug use
*spelling errors on electronic version
*received an e-ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Ben Parker has found his soul mate in Emma Bennett but will chasing immortal bad guys get in the way of a love that transcends life as we know it?
Review:
Ah, young love. Sandy Goldsworthy’s first book in the Afterworld Saga, Aftermath, is all about overcoming obstacles in the quest to finding your soul mate. It opens up a new paranormal world to readers that is both intriguing and perplexing. There is so much potential to this series. You can almost sense that potential shimmering right there on the surface of the book the entire time. I really had a hard time putting it down and the main reason for this was that the author took her time breaking down the details of the Afterworld to the readers. It was like she was baiting me. She would carefully throw in a small detail as part of her world building and then fail to immediately elaborate on it. Then over the course of a few chapters, she would keep circling back with small explanations as she slowly added more information. It was both exasperating and intriguing at the same time. And there is no doubt that the world that Ms. Goldsworthy is building has some interesting concepts in it. I would caution, however, that the first fifth of the book drug a bit until the main story really took off due to this process. Stick with it, though, because once the book hits its stride, the pace picks up and a secondary story is introduced where the main character, Ben, has to track down a criminal mastermind.
That takes me to my next point. This is a paranormal romance but Ben really needs to work on the romance part. He needs to brush off his romance skills STAT. Throughout the 380 pages this book requires, Ben states several times that Emma, our heroine, is the most important person ever to him and that he needs to focus more of his attention on her. Yeah, that would have been very nice. Ben is admittedly juggling a lot of responsibilities throughout the story: bad guys, babysitting rookies, inexperienced agents, and building his relationship with Emma. Ms. Goldsworthy takes pains to state exactly that in the book just so we know why Ben is a bit neglectful. I still felt, though, that he lacked the intensity that he professed to have. There just wasn’t any urgency to his claims. Of course, there is a pretty good excuse for his lack of urgency but I won’t spoil that for you. In the end, Ben is a worthy hero that we can all look forward to getting to know better throughout the series. Yet the bottom line is that I think the romance could have used a bit more page space while still passing as a “Clean Teen” romance.
After waiting a few days before reviewing this book, I can honestly say that I did enjoy it. I want to know more about the world Ms. Goldsworthy created and I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. The potential is there for a very successful run of novels with Ben and Emma continuing their story along with the other characters that you get to know in Aftermath. I believe this was the author’s first book ever so we can all look forward to her stories only getting better.
tl/dr: I couldn’t put the book down as Ms. Goldsworthy built up the intensity of the book like a slow burn. part romance + part crime drama + part fantasy world = winning combination
*dual first-person perspectives
*adult language/underage drinking and drug use
*spelling errors on electronic version
*received an e-ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
March 24, 2016
I would like to thank Clean Teen Publishing for a free ARC of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an open and honest review.
What an interesting book… really not too sure if it was for me though. I can’t say it is a new favourite for me, but it had its moments. Personally I wasn’t a fan of the double perspective of the storyline (seen from Ben and Emma’s points of view) as the writing style for both characters was almost identical and, if I wasn’t paying attention, I would often forget who was talking. And as much as the immortals idea was interesting… I seriously found it all a little too confusing too. It was like even the author felt it was a good idea they fully didn’t understand themselves.
Add to that the unfinished business left when the story was over – I don’t want to say too much as I don’t want to get done for spoilers – and I just felt the author got to their word count requirement and just stopped.
The pace of the story was also so very slow for me, and then started jumping all over the place and getting disjointed. Maybe that is my fault as a reader and not as used to YA books as I once was… perhaps people who only read YA books didn’t notice the slow pace? A lot of YA books I’ve read of late seem to have a super slow pace so maybe that’s just the done thing with YA right now? Possibly why I don’t read it that much anymore?
But to give ‘Aftermath’ some credit… it was, for me, an original idea and had some good concepts. I just didn’t feel they were followed through smoothly nor that the story was really finished. And, no, I don’t think this means it is leaving things open for a sequel – I sure hope not – it just means so many plot threads were just left swaying in the breeze, rather than being neatly tied up at the end of it all. If it was leading into a sequel, these threads should at least have been neatened up and acknowledged as ‘still to come’ in some way. It was just all a little messy and left unfinished to me.
Would I recommend this book to others? I really don’t know… a bit of a cop out I know! Basically, it was an okay idea for a book and I can see the possibility in people enjoying it. I just don’t know if anyone I know would be someone who enjoyed it so I can’t say I would recommend it to them… just in case I got it wrong and there went my book cred! ;-)
Would I buy this book for myself? No, this one wasn’t for me. I am not saying it was a bad book – far from it. I just, personally, didn’t enjoy it a heck of a lot. I mean, I liked it enough to actually finish it and then not give it a terrible score, but it’s not one I am going to be raving about to everyone I meet.
In summary: this book had some potential and had some good moments… but it also had a lot of loose ends left unanswered and was a little too sloppy and hard to read in places for me to fully enjoy it. I will leave it up to other readers to decide whether it is a book for them and just say – yep, read it.
What an interesting book… really not too sure if it was for me though. I can’t say it is a new favourite for me, but it had its moments. Personally I wasn’t a fan of the double perspective of the storyline (seen from Ben and Emma’s points of view) as the writing style for both characters was almost identical and, if I wasn’t paying attention, I would often forget who was talking. And as much as the immortals idea was interesting… I seriously found it all a little too confusing too. It was like even the author felt it was a good idea they fully didn’t understand themselves.
Add to that the unfinished business left when the story was over – I don’t want to say too much as I don’t want to get done for spoilers – and I just felt the author got to their word count requirement and just stopped.
The pace of the story was also so very slow for me, and then started jumping all over the place and getting disjointed. Maybe that is my fault as a reader and not as used to YA books as I once was… perhaps people who only read YA books didn’t notice the slow pace? A lot of YA books I’ve read of late seem to have a super slow pace so maybe that’s just the done thing with YA right now? Possibly why I don’t read it that much anymore?
But to give ‘Aftermath’ some credit… it was, for me, an original idea and had some good concepts. I just didn’t feel they were followed through smoothly nor that the story was really finished. And, no, I don’t think this means it is leaving things open for a sequel – I sure hope not – it just means so many plot threads were just left swaying in the breeze, rather than being neatly tied up at the end of it all. If it was leading into a sequel, these threads should at least have been neatened up and acknowledged as ‘still to come’ in some way. It was just all a little messy and left unfinished to me.
Would I recommend this book to others? I really don’t know… a bit of a cop out I know! Basically, it was an okay idea for a book and I can see the possibility in people enjoying it. I just don’t know if anyone I know would be someone who enjoyed it so I can’t say I would recommend it to them… just in case I got it wrong and there went my book cred! ;-)
Would I buy this book for myself? No, this one wasn’t for me. I am not saying it was a bad book – far from it. I just, personally, didn’t enjoy it a heck of a lot. I mean, I liked it enough to actually finish it and then not give it a terrible score, but it’s not one I am going to be raving about to everyone I meet.
In summary: this book had some potential and had some good moments… but it also had a lot of loose ends left unanswered and was a little too sloppy and hard to read in places for me to fully enjoy it. I will leave it up to other readers to decide whether it is a book for them and just say – yep, read it.
January 17, 2017
This review can also be seen on my blog I Heart Fictional People
Ever wonder about the possibility of past lives and soul mates who find each other in each life? In Aftermath, the first book in the Afterworld series, by Sandy Goldsworthy, Ben, an undercover agent for the Afterworld’s Bureau of Investigation, has been waiting for his soul mate for what seems like forever. He soon finds her in Emma, a senior in high school. After she suddenly loses her father and is forced to move into her aunt’s house, she finds comfort in new friends, including Ben, but he seems distant and preoccupied, so she finds herself turning to Lucas, the boy other people are warning her about. Instead of being able to focus on the love of his life, Ben has duties and responsibilities that he needs to take care of. In order to keep her safe, he may lose her in the process.
What a unique plot! I really like the idea of an afterworld agency where you work after you die until you get a new life contract. While it sounds nice to know that you still exist in some form after your death, it gets complicated when you miss your loved ones who are still in your former life or who have whole new lives. Even though the story was a bit longer than it should have been and I wasn’t a fan of the end, the book as a whole kept me interested and wanting to finish it to see what happens to the characters I grew to care for. I also really liked the alternating points of view. It was nice to see two different perspectives. Being equally suspenseful, romantic, and eerily magical, Aftermath is an enjoyable read that I would recommend to fans of young adult and paranormal fiction. Sandy Goldsworthy is a great storyteller with a vivid imagination that is clearly reflected in her writing. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite
Ever wonder about the possibility of past lives and soul mates who find each other in each life? In Aftermath, the first book in the Afterworld series, by Sandy Goldsworthy, Ben, an undercover agent for the Afterworld’s Bureau of Investigation, has been waiting for his soul mate for what seems like forever. He soon finds her in Emma, a senior in high school. After she suddenly loses her father and is forced to move into her aunt’s house, she finds comfort in new friends, including Ben, but he seems distant and preoccupied, so she finds herself turning to Lucas, the boy other people are warning her about. Instead of being able to focus on the love of his life, Ben has duties and responsibilities that he needs to take care of. In order to keep her safe, he may lose her in the process.
What a unique plot! I really like the idea of an afterworld agency where you work after you die until you get a new life contract. While it sounds nice to know that you still exist in some form after your death, it gets complicated when you miss your loved ones who are still in your former life or who have whole new lives. Even though the story was a bit longer than it should have been and I wasn’t a fan of the end, the book as a whole kept me interested and wanting to finish it to see what happens to the characters I grew to care for. I also really liked the alternating points of view. It was nice to see two different perspectives. Being equally suspenseful, romantic, and eerily magical, Aftermath is an enjoyable read that I would recommend to fans of young adult and paranormal fiction. Sandy Goldsworthy is a great storyteller with a vivid imagination that is clearly reflected in her writing. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite
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July 10, 2015Got this book from Net Galley. This book slut needs regular feedings. Thanks for keeping me well fed.
I really like the cover despite the guy looking like he's going to suck the life out of the girl. It has this glowy otherworldy look about it. Does that even make sense? It certainly got my attention more than the title. Usually it is the other way around when I'm unfamiliar with an author. Prepare to be shocked by what I'm about to reveal. This is the first book in a series.
This book is told from two different perspectives. It is easy to keep up with it because it just goes back and forth from one character to another. Now this could be crazy making if it kept changing times but it doesn't do that since it is often flowing smoothly with what's going on currently although past events are sprinkled throughout the book.
I'd call this a science fiction book with a bit of romance thrown in. The two main characters are Ben and Emma. Ben is immortal. He's like a guardian angel of sorts and he's been searching for someone. Emma is a girl that just lost her father so she's moving in with her Aunt Barb. Weirdly people don't call me that not that I've ever asked anyone to. One person did keep calling me Brenda for some reason. I really like both main characters. They are easy to connect with and you can't help but feel bad for both of them since they have both had tragedy in their lives. You'll just have to read it for yourself to find out if Ben finds what he's been searching for. It certainly does make you think about whether or not reincarnation is real.
http://www.ficgal.com/book-club/after...
I really like the cover despite the guy looking like he's going to suck the life out of the girl. It has this glowy otherworldy look about it. Does that even make sense? It certainly got my attention more than the title. Usually it is the other way around when I'm unfamiliar with an author. Prepare to be shocked by what I'm about to reveal. This is the first book in a series.
This book is told from two different perspectives. It is easy to keep up with it because it just goes back and forth from one character to another. Now this could be crazy making if it kept changing times but it doesn't do that since it is often flowing smoothly with what's going on currently although past events are sprinkled throughout the book.
I'd call this a science fiction book with a bit of romance thrown in. The two main characters are Ben and Emma. Ben is immortal. He's like a guardian angel of sorts and he's been searching for someone. Emma is a girl that just lost her father so she's moving in with her Aunt Barb. Weirdly people don't call me that not that I've ever asked anyone to. One person did keep calling me Brenda for some reason. I really like both main characters. They are easy to connect with and you can't help but feel bad for both of them since they have both had tragedy in their lives. You'll just have to read it for yourself to find out if Ben finds what he's been searching for. It certainly does make you think about whether or not reincarnation is real.
http://www.ficgal.com/book-club/after...
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Aftermath is an interesting reading experience. On one hand you are reading a teenager’s story from her view of school, boys and life. On the other hand you are reading a paranormal novel from Ben’s viewpoint. He’s found his life soul mate once again and is determined to be a part of her new life. Yet his work as an agent requires that he continue the search for a crazed killer. He will have to divide his attention at the worst possible time.
I found Aftermath to be simply fascinating. There are elements of young adult as well as a more intense paranormal search for an immortal who is nasty beyond words. The author has managed to combine these two differing outlooks into one compelling, intense and interesting story.
I believe readers who enjoy YA, Paranormal and Romance would find this novel well worth investing both time and money into. As the first novel in a planned series, I can only imagine that there are more stories to tell in the Afterworld universe. I’m looking forward to discovering them.
*I received an e-ARC of Aftermath from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Aftermath is an interesting reading experience. On one hand you are reading a teenager’s story from her view of school, boys and life. On the other hand you are reading a paranormal novel from Ben’s viewpoint. He’s found his life soul mate once again and is determined to be a part of her new life. Yet his work as an agent requires that he continue the search for a crazed killer. He will have to divide his attention at the worst possible time.
I found Aftermath to be simply fascinating. There are elements of young adult as well as a more intense paranormal search for an immortal who is nasty beyond words. The author has managed to combine these two differing outlooks into one compelling, intense and interesting story.
I believe readers who enjoy YA, Paranormal and Romance would find this novel well worth investing both time and money into. As the first novel in a planned series, I can only imagine that there are more stories to tell in the Afterworld universe. I’m looking forward to discovering them.
*I received an e-ARC of Aftermath from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
July 22, 2015
Told first through Ben's, then Emma’s eyes, "Aftermath" presents a refreshing angle from which love grows, even as the main characters' connection is tested by obstacles.
Read full review in the 2015 July/August issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 July/August issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 8, 2015
This book was a clean teen romance that had many different aspects to it. The dual story was great. I like reading books from different points of view.
It was a very long book and the ending was a little confusing, but overall, it was a great book to read!
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
It was a very long book and the ending was a little confusing, but overall, it was a great book to read!
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
December 9, 2014
It was a good clean read. It was rather longer than it should have been but I liked the dual perspectives. Didn't like the ending but I guess it was left for part 2.
March 23, 2015
It was a good book. I liked the dual perspectives but it was longer than it shaped have been. Glad that I bought it paperback instead of hardcover.
April 19, 2018
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks Red Coat PR!
Aftermath is the first installment in The Afterworld Saga which is a young adult fantasy mystery series. The story is told from alternating points of view between the female lead, Emma, and the male lead, Ben. I was drawn to this book because of the concept of the Afterworld's Bureau of Investigation and the concept of a rogue immortal running on the loose. Unfortunately, I felt that these aspects of the story were convoluted and glossed over. It read more like a high school drama. It was heavy on teen drinking and drug use and this was portrayed in such a way that it came across as being acceptable and the norm. The female lead, Emma, is a gullible young girl just looking for attention in all the wrong places. There were so many characters that at times it was difficult for me as a reader to remember who to focus on. Seemed like an interesting enough concept, but more background is needed on the Afterworld's Bureau of Investigation. The world building with the immortals could use some more work as well. I really wanted to like this book more than I did and think the series overall has some potential, but needs some more work.
Aftermath is the first installment in The Afterworld Saga which is a young adult fantasy mystery series. The story is told from alternating points of view between the female lead, Emma, and the male lead, Ben. I was drawn to this book because of the concept of the Afterworld's Bureau of Investigation and the concept of a rogue immortal running on the loose. Unfortunately, I felt that these aspects of the story were convoluted and glossed over. It read more like a high school drama. It was heavy on teen drinking and drug use and this was portrayed in such a way that it came across as being acceptable and the norm. The female lead, Emma, is a gullible young girl just looking for attention in all the wrong places. There were so many characters that at times it was difficult for me as a reader to remember who to focus on. Seemed like an interesting enough concept, but more background is needed on the Afterworld's Bureau of Investigation. The world building with the immortals could use some more work as well. I really wanted to like this book more than I did and think the series overall has some potential, but needs some more work.
September 2, 2020
Emma has recently lost her father. Her mother has also been dead for a short time. She leaves to live with an aunt and attend a new school. There is something familiar about her new friends especially a handsome boy named Ben. Ben has a secret… he does know Emma but not in this life. He has loved her in a previous life. Ben is an immortal and he has lived many lives, a few with Emma or Elizabeth as she was known. Ben remembers his past lives because he is an agent for the afterworld. Emma does not because she is a sleeping agent. All Ben wants is to have his family together but he has a job to do that might put Emma in danger.
I am a sucker for soulmate stories and books with short chapters. I also like that the chapters went back and forth between Emma And Ben. The writing is quick-paced and has much suspense.
I am not sure I like the idea of how the agents communicated with each other and how easily they gained info on regular people by just a handshake or touch. It was creepy but maybe it was supposed to be.
I am curious about the rest of the books in the series. I have so much to read I don’t know if I will get to more in this series but I think I will like them if I do. I would recommend these to anyone who enjoys romantic fantasy books.
I am a sucker for soulmate stories and books with short chapters. I also like that the chapters went back and forth between Emma And Ben. The writing is quick-paced and has much suspense.
I am not sure I like the idea of how the agents communicated with each other and how easily they gained info on regular people by just a handshake or touch. It was creepy but maybe it was supposed to be.
I am curious about the rest of the books in the series. I have so much to read I don’t know if I will get to more in this series but I think I will like them if I do. I would recommend these to anyone who enjoys romantic fantasy books.
April 15, 2018
I received this eARC novel from Red Coat Publishing. This is my honest review.
I was really excited for this novel because the synopsis sounded amazing, but I was a bit disappointed overall. I just couldn't connect with Emma and Lucas, and the story was very slow for me. I'm sure the second book would be a faster paced book, but I just wasn't a huge fan of this book, sadly.
However, it was an original book that is unlike other books I've read - which is great because a lot of YA books are becoming very similar lately.
I am sure that other readers will enjoy this book a lot, but it just wasn't for me right now, sadly. Maybe I will try it again later to see if I connect to it better than now.
I am very glad that I got an eARC of this novel, though!
I was really excited for this novel because the synopsis sounded amazing, but I was a bit disappointed overall. I just couldn't connect with Emma and Lucas, and the story was very slow for me. I'm sure the second book would be a faster paced book, but I just wasn't a huge fan of this book, sadly.
However, it was an original book that is unlike other books I've read - which is great because a lot of YA books are becoming very similar lately.
I am sure that other readers will enjoy this book a lot, but it just wasn't for me right now, sadly. Maybe I will try it again later to see if I connect to it better than now.
I am very glad that I got an eARC of this novel, though!
September 30, 2018
Unfortunately this book wasn't for me and unfortunately I couldn't even finish the book.
For me personally the story lacked any action or intrigue. I felt there were too many characters to keep up with and I honestly couldn't understand where the story was going hence why I couldn't finish the book.
I really hate giving low star and negative reviews but I promised an honest review and so there you go.
For me personally the story lacked any action or intrigue. I felt there were too many characters to keep up with and I honestly couldn't understand where the story was going hence why I couldn't finish the book.
I really hate giving low star and negative reviews but I promised an honest review and so there you go.
February 10, 2017
this was a 420 page book that could have been written in160. its about an immortal who is looking for his lost love and she happens to be a highschooler. and all the highschoolers do is drink. and smoke pot. and drink. and go to.school. this was a shallow book and the slowest character development. the plot was sloooooow and then the ending was stale. very dissapointed. waste of time
May 29, 2017
Disappointed in the unnecessary language
I enjoyed the story for the most part, but the last half dragged a bit. I got really annoyed with the f-words. They weren't necessary and I ended up skimming to the end. Also the teen drinking was a little overboard. I won't be buying any more of her books.
I enjoyed the story for the most part, but the last half dragged a bit. I got really annoyed with the f-words. They weren't necessary and I ended up skimming to the end. Also the teen drinking was a little overboard. I won't be buying any more of her books.
September 6, 2018
I don’t know what to think about this book. The story line is unique. But it’s so long and goes in so many different directions. There’s so many side stories. They do all eventually make sense. The characters were ok. Wish there was more depth to the story. More feelings. I wanted something to draw me into the story and hook me and I just didn’t get that.
September 27, 2018
Amazingly different.
A beautiful story with a fresh look on life after life. The beginning was a bit slow for me would have been better with more explanation for the coming storyline. Other than that I loved it. Emma and Ben’s story moved me deeply, by he end I didn’t even care how it started I just never wanted it to end. Will be continuing this series.
A beautiful story with a fresh look on life after life. The beginning was a bit slow for me would have been better with more explanation for the coming storyline. Other than that I loved it. Emma and Ben’s story moved me deeply, by he end I didn’t even care how it started I just never wanted it to end. Will be continuing this series.
April 8, 2019
I have absolutely loved reading this book, it has an original plotline which I loved to follow. we follow Emma and Ben's individual story and learn about how they are connected through each other from since time began almost. the conversations that are held through thought are really funny at times. I will now be searching out the other books in the series.
November 12, 2017
Wow
I haven't read a book anything like this storyline everything fit together perfect. The characters were fantastic. Love Emma and Ben. Hated all the secrets but the book was really good. Loved it.
I haven't read a book anything like this storyline everything fit together perfect. The characters were fantastic. Love Emma and Ben. Hated all the secrets but the book was really good. Loved it.
September 21, 2018
I enjoyed the different angle of what life is and after life. This was a sad story between two lovers, soulmates. One trying to find the other and many obstacles to by pass. Each person connected in a different way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2021
Interesting idea but ugh
I didn’t like a single character in this story. The idea is fascinating though not all questions are answered about how this works, but overall I found this too dragged out.
I didn’t like a single character in this story. The idea is fascinating though not all questions are answered about how this works, but overall I found this too dragged out.
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