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The Books of Marvella #1
Marvelous
Brandon Jeffery’s summer started out with a bang—as in, a friend crashed his car and now he has to work two jobs to pay it off. It’s at Fascination Street Records that he’s introduced to a beautiful but quiet girl named Marvel. She’s new to Hidden Cove and looking for a summer job, so Brandon secretly strikes a deal with their boss to work for free so she can be hired.
When a classmate is found murdered, however, their summer takes a turn for the mysterious. Brandon’s friend Devon is sure he knows just who’s to blame: the creepy recluse of the town quarry. But the police have few leads, and Brandon has the sneaking suspicion he’s being watched.
That’s not what’s in the forefront of on his mind, though. More than trying to pay off his car to his unemployed, alcoholic father and protecting Seth Belcher from the school bullies, he’s determined to date Marvel. He doesn’t understand why they seem so close and she refuses to date him, but as the mystery behind her tragic past begins to unravel, Marvel finally confesses her reason: God has revealed she’s destined to die saving others—and it’s going to be soon.
When a classmate is found murdered, however, their summer takes a turn for the mysterious. Brandon’s friend Devon is sure he knows just who’s to blame: the creepy recluse of the town quarry. But the police have few leads, and Brandon has the sneaking suspicion he’s being watched.
That’s not what’s in the forefront of on his mind, though. More than trying to pay off his car to his unemployed, alcoholic father and protecting Seth Belcher from the school bullies, he’s determined to date Marvel. He doesn’t understand why they seem so close and she refuses to date him, but as the mystery behind her tragic past begins to unravel, Marvel finally confesses her reason: God has revealed she’s destined to die saving others—and it’s going to be soon.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 18, 2014
10 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
Travis Thrasher
72 books419 followersNew York Times bestselling author Travis Thrasher has written over 75 books, from fiction in a variety of genres to memoirs and children’s books. He has collaborated with filmmakers, musicians, athletes, comedians and pastors. Travis lives with his wife and three daughters in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 18, 2015
Daha kurguya dayanan, Türkçe inceleme için buradan.
***
I didn't like the book. Like, did NOT like it, a few steps before seriously disliking. I found nothing I expected and I was bored as hell.
Problems?
First, the plot.
It didn't work for me at all. I did read the synopsis before requesting it on NetGalley, but I expected more of a suspense kind, like, ordinary townie-quiet town-murder trio and bam! Everyone suspects everyone. Meanwhile, our guy finds a girl he can trust and scene.
We have nothing like this.
Instead, we have a guy drooling over the girl who says she doesn't want to get involved with him, but acts like she wants it every way. Murders? Nah, forget about them, we have Marvel.
The book is not just about Marvel, of course, we have a stupid Barton, curious Devon and another guy I keep forgetting as friends of Brandon, his abusive father, always-working mother, siblings we don't know much about, and Harry the boss, Seth the weirdo who gets bullied all the time and... You get the point. We have plenty of characters, but since he is all over her and nothing or no one else, we don't really get to know any of them apart from the father. And yes, that was the characters part.
The writing? I must say I liked it. I have no idea why, but I did. He kept saying yeah, sure, but apart from that, I liked the sincerity of Brandon. He was like a close friend for me, I could sit and chat with him for a few hours. Unless he talks about Marvel, of course. Then I'll have to kill him .
To sum up, it had good characters and a nice writing, but lacked of interesting plot and interesting... well, interesting everything. Sorry, Travis Thrasher, but that's the truth. It was nothing more than a 3/5.
November 29, 2020
Brandon Jeffrey's summer is off to a rough start he is working two jobs to pay off his wrecked car, while avoiding his alcoholic father as much as possible.
A local boy is murdered, and Brandon's friend Devon has more than a few ideas about who might be involved. And then there is Marvella, or Marvel as she likes to be called, a uniquely beautiful bright spot in Brandon's life, and when she is around miraculous things happen.
What does it all mean?
Brandon is a likeable soccer jock, he tends to float in the middle, not popular, but not unpopular either. His homelife is less than ideal, and he does his best to hide that part of his life from others. Brandon is smitten by Marvel, who is unlike any other girl he has met before (I know, I know it sounds cliche), he is drawn to something in her that he has never encountered before and also sees a kindred spirit. I liked how he is honest about his past, and through his point of view we see how he has never quite fit in, but he also hasn't not fit in.
This was a highly engaging read that as the first of a series left me with more questions than it answered, which for the first book in the series is a positive. There is a lot going on behind the scenes, and I thought that they characters were very well developed in a way that let you know that all of the supporting members of this book lived full lives outside of what we saw, like Harry in the record shop, Frank, Seth, and Devon, which fit well with the first person narrative. I know I'm kinda late to the party with this book, but many of the pop culture references aged decently--especially the brief mention of Donald Trump, and I thought the texting was integrated well.
Marvel is a girl who is like a ray of sunshine, but honest, careful, and perceptive. I also like that she is mysterious and sees the best in others, but can also be vulnerable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and by the end didn't want to put it down. I was very sad to find that I may have to do some serious hunting to find the rest of the series right now as at the time of this review we are in the midst of the COVID-19 situation. I'm interested to see where this series goes and how the faith themes will be expanded upon, as well as spiritual warfare, as that seems to be the direction the series is headed. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A local boy is murdered, and Brandon's friend Devon has more than a few ideas about who might be involved. And then there is Marvella, or Marvel as she likes to be called, a uniquely beautiful bright spot in Brandon's life, and when she is around miraculous things happen.
What does it all mean?
Brandon is a likeable soccer jock, he tends to float in the middle, not popular, but not unpopular either. His homelife is less than ideal, and he does his best to hide that part of his life from others. Brandon is smitten by Marvel, who is unlike any other girl he has met before (I know, I know it sounds cliche), he is drawn to something in her that he has never encountered before and also sees a kindred spirit. I liked how he is honest about his past, and through his point of view we see how he has never quite fit in, but he also hasn't not fit in.
This was a highly engaging read that as the first of a series left me with more questions than it answered, which for the first book in the series is a positive. There is a lot going on behind the scenes, and I thought that they characters were very well developed in a way that let you know that all of the supporting members of this book lived full lives outside of what we saw, like Harry in the record shop, Frank, Seth, and Devon, which fit well with the first person narrative. I know I'm kinda late to the party with this book, but many of the pop culture references aged decently--especially the brief mention of Donald Trump, and I thought the texting was integrated well.
Marvel is a girl who is like a ray of sunshine, but honest, careful, and perceptive. I also like that she is mysterious and sees the best in others, but can also be vulnerable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and by the end didn't want to put it down. I was very sad to find that I may have to do some serious hunting to find the rest of the series right now as at the time of this review we are in the midst of the COVID-19 situation. I'm interested to see where this series goes and how the faith themes will be expanded upon, as well as spiritual warfare, as that seems to be the direction the series is headed. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 21, 2014
I’ve been on a YA kick this summer, so I was excited to read Marvelous by Travis Thrasher. And since this is the first in a series, I was really hoping to love it so I would have a few more books to look forward to. While Marvelous started with an interesting plot and unique characters, I quickly became bored with the story. Personally, I felt that the story just moved along too slowly. By the end of the book, which ended without resolving ANY of the plot lines, I was pretty frustrated. Honestly, I felt like this was just a really long prologue or prequel to the series. Yes, things are set up quite nicely for the series, but I don’t think I’ll be going back to read the rest. I just needed something … more … from THIS book, not just preparation for the next one. [2 stars]
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for my fair and honest review, which I have given.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for my fair and honest review, which I have given.
August 3, 2016
Reseña en español completa
AHHHHHH!!! Love this book!!!!!!!
AHHHHHH!!! Love this book!!!!!!!
January 7, 2015
Ever since reading the Solitary Series from best-selling author Travis Thrasher, I knew I wanted more! Something that you find yourself going back to again and again in memory of a great series. He has done just that with the Books of Marvella Series and I couldn't be more excited. Not sure how I missed knowing these were coming out, but now, I know they will be just as good if not better than the Solitary Series was.
Marvelous is the first novel in the Books of Marvella series and begins with the life of Brandon Jeffrey, the oldest of three boys in the Jeffrey household. He is on summer break before heading into his senior year, one he is looking forward to completing in more ways than one. For Brandon it's not just about graduating, its about freedom from his abusive father who spends all his free time, drinking instead of looking for work. It is all Brandon can do to find ways to stay out of the reach of his father's drunken outbursts, which he hides from his two younger brothers and his busy hard working mother, a lawyer who can only see the best in him.
Brandon is struggling to find jobs to pay back the loan his parents provided him to buy a car, which was totaled when he loaned it to a friend. His father intends to ensure that Brandon pays all the money off this year and seeks to remind him of it whenever he gets the chance. Through a seemingly random coincidence, Brandon runs into Marvella Garcia, who goes by the name Marvel at Fantastic Street, a record store where he offers her a job even though it's not his decision. He decides she is so worth knowing he will find a way to get his boss Harry to hire her just to keep her around.
In between dealing with his father, the town of Appleton learns that a young boy Artie Duncan has been brutally murdered. While the police struggle to find suspects, they ask that all teens stay inside after dark and stay in groups. Brandon is your typical high school boy with an unbeatable crush on Marvel who insists that she only wants a friendship with Brandon. He only hopes in time he can convince her to possibly go on a date, while trying to keep the local football bullies from beating up a timid nerd named Seth. Brandon wonders if these same bullies could be the ones responsible for the death of Artie seeing as they love intimidate anyone they can.
I received Marvelous by Travis Thrasher compliments of NavPress, a division of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are my own. This is such a realistic novel as told from the eyes of Brandon Jeffrey. He has his own issues to deal with coming to terms with how to handle his father, and being able to be truthful when he needs to. Trust is a big issue here, and it takes confiding in Marvel to help him come to terms with his own deep dark secrets. But the town of Appleton is hiding its own secrets while the murder investigation continues. I love the emotions that come through in each character that comes to life in this series, from the bullying of Seth and how he struggles to handle it each time he runs into the football team, to Marvel sharing her insight into what has happened in her past that has lead her on a path for God. I can't wait for the next novel Wonder which is the second book in this amazing series. Solitary Tales fans? You will definitely want this one!! I rate this a 5 out of 5 stars!!!
Marvelous is the first novel in the Books of Marvella series and begins with the life of Brandon Jeffrey, the oldest of three boys in the Jeffrey household. He is on summer break before heading into his senior year, one he is looking forward to completing in more ways than one. For Brandon it's not just about graduating, its about freedom from his abusive father who spends all his free time, drinking instead of looking for work. It is all Brandon can do to find ways to stay out of the reach of his father's drunken outbursts, which he hides from his two younger brothers and his busy hard working mother, a lawyer who can only see the best in him.
Brandon is struggling to find jobs to pay back the loan his parents provided him to buy a car, which was totaled when he loaned it to a friend. His father intends to ensure that Brandon pays all the money off this year and seeks to remind him of it whenever he gets the chance. Through a seemingly random coincidence, Brandon runs into Marvella Garcia, who goes by the name Marvel at Fantastic Street, a record store where he offers her a job even though it's not his decision. He decides she is so worth knowing he will find a way to get his boss Harry to hire her just to keep her around.
In between dealing with his father, the town of Appleton learns that a young boy Artie Duncan has been brutally murdered. While the police struggle to find suspects, they ask that all teens stay inside after dark and stay in groups. Brandon is your typical high school boy with an unbeatable crush on Marvel who insists that she only wants a friendship with Brandon. He only hopes in time he can convince her to possibly go on a date, while trying to keep the local football bullies from beating up a timid nerd named Seth. Brandon wonders if these same bullies could be the ones responsible for the death of Artie seeing as they love intimidate anyone they can.
I received Marvelous by Travis Thrasher compliments of NavPress, a division of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are my own. This is such a realistic novel as told from the eyes of Brandon Jeffrey. He has his own issues to deal with coming to terms with how to handle his father, and being able to be truthful when he needs to. Trust is a big issue here, and it takes confiding in Marvel to help him come to terms with his own deep dark secrets. But the town of Appleton is hiding its own secrets while the murder investigation continues. I love the emotions that come through in each character that comes to life in this series, from the bullying of Seth and how he struggles to handle it each time he runs into the football team, to Marvel sharing her insight into what has happened in her past that has lead her on a path for God. I can't wait for the next novel Wonder which is the second book in this amazing series. Solitary Tales fans? You will definitely want this one!! I rate this a 5 out of 5 stars!!!
January 10, 2015
Marvelous, Book One of the Book of Marvella Series. Travis Thrasher. NavPress: 2014.
Brandon might be your typical soccer playing teenager on the outside but on the inside he's falling for a beautiful Christian girl with an insane mission while trying to balance his home life with an alcoholic father and his two summer jobs. To add to the drama, a body, classmate Artie Duncan's body, was discovered down in the river and Brandon's best friend Devon is playing Sherlock Holmes instead of keeping his nose out of the investigation.
Marvelous takes place over the summer and is written in first person with Brandon as the narrator. One of the things I appreciated about the narration was the honesty. Many of the details that the reader discovers are through Brandon's dialogue and encounters with the other characters in the book. I thought this was a wise decision to have one character be the readers main source for information because there were so many side stories (the dead body, Marvel's family life, and Brandon's alcoholic father) that would have been distracting if told from several points of view.
I was a little frustrated that the series is named after Marvel, and although she has the most interesting storyline and most well developed character, the story follows Brandon. I didn't care so much for Brandon as the character and was disappointed that he was the main character. I liked him as a main character but compared to Marvel, he was a bit bland.
I was extremely disappointed in the end of the book, I felt like I invested a lot of time into the plot and characters but one of the biggest plot lines is left open. Possibly for the sake of the book being a part of the series but as a mystery the book doesn't stand on its own. I would recommend this to any young adult reader interested in a general Christian fiction story that involves a family story, teenage romance, a growing faith, and mild suspense.
Readers Note: I received this book from Tyndale Publisher in exchange for this honest review.
Brandon might be your typical soccer playing teenager on the outside but on the inside he's falling for a beautiful Christian girl with an insane mission while trying to balance his home life with an alcoholic father and his two summer jobs. To add to the drama, a body, classmate Artie Duncan's body, was discovered down in the river and Brandon's best friend Devon is playing Sherlock Holmes instead of keeping his nose out of the investigation.
Marvelous takes place over the summer and is written in first person with Brandon as the narrator. One of the things I appreciated about the narration was the honesty. Many of the details that the reader discovers are through Brandon's dialogue and encounters with the other characters in the book. I thought this was a wise decision to have one character be the readers main source for information because there were so many side stories (the dead body, Marvel's family life, and Brandon's alcoholic father) that would have been distracting if told from several points of view.
I was a little frustrated that the series is named after Marvel, and although she has the most interesting storyline and most well developed character, the story follows Brandon. I didn't care so much for Brandon as the character and was disappointed that he was the main character. I liked him as a main character but compared to Marvel, he was a bit bland.
I was extremely disappointed in the end of the book, I felt like I invested a lot of time into the plot and characters but one of the biggest plot lines is left open. Possibly for the sake of the book being a part of the series but as a mystery the book doesn't stand on its own. I would recommend this to any young adult reader interested in a general Christian fiction story that involves a family story, teenage romance, a growing faith, and mild suspense.
Readers Note: I received this book from Tyndale Publisher in exchange for this honest review.
Read
January 30, 2015Good start to a series
"Marvelous" is the first entry in Travis Thrasher's new "Books of Marvella" series, and it is quite an attention-grabber. A teenage boy living in the suburbs of Chicago meets a mysterious girl who fascinates him...all while the town is shaken to its core by the murder of one of his high school classmates. In time, he begins to realize that Marvel isn't just another girl, that one murder is only the tip of the iceberg, and that his life will never be the same. I'm looking forward to Book 2.
"Marvelous" is the first entry in Travis Thrasher's new "Books of Marvella" series, and it is quite an attention-grabber. A teenage boy living in the suburbs of Chicago meets a mysterious girl who fascinates him...all while the town is shaken to its core by the murder of one of his high school classmates. In time, he begins to realize that Marvel isn't just another girl, that one murder is only the tip of the iceberg, and that his life will never be the same. I'm looking forward to Book 2.
July 3, 2014
When, oh when is book 2 coming out?! I need to know what happens next!
May 6, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I am looking forward to reading the next two books in the series. The book seems like an introduction to the characters. Not much happens. There is a bully, love, abuse, murder and some mystery. What are they up to at the old mine?
Brandon Jeffery’s summer started out with a bang—as in, a friend crashed his car and now he has to work two jobs to pay it off. It’s at Fascination Street Records that he’s introduced to a beautiful but quiet girl named Marvel. She’s new to Hidden Cove and looking for a summer job, so Brandon secretly strikes a deal with their boss to work for free so she can be hired.
When a classmate is found murdered, however, their summer takes a turn for the mysterious. Brandon’s friend Devon is sure he knows just who’s to blame: the creepy recluse of the town quarry. But the police have few leads, and Brandon has the sneaking suspicion he’s being watched.
That’s not what’s in the forefront of on his mind, though. More than trying to pay off his car to his unemployed, alcoholic father and protecting Seth Belcher from the school bullies, he’s determined to date Marvel. He doesn’t understand why they seem so close and she refuses to date him, but as the mystery behind her tragic past begins to unravel, Marvel finally confesses her reason: God has revealed she’s destined to die saving others—and it’s going to be soon. (less)
Brandon Jeffery’s summer started out with a bang—as in, a friend crashed his car and now he has to work two jobs to pay it off. It’s at Fascination Street Records that he’s introduced to a beautiful but quiet girl named Marvel. She’s new to Hidden Cove and looking for a summer job, so Brandon secretly strikes a deal with their boss to work for free so she can be hired.
When a classmate is found murdered, however, their summer takes a turn for the mysterious. Brandon’s friend Devon is sure he knows just who’s to blame: the creepy recluse of the town quarry. But the police have few leads, and Brandon has the sneaking suspicion he’s being watched.
That’s not what’s in the forefront of on his mind, though. More than trying to pay off his car to his unemployed, alcoholic father and protecting Seth Belcher from the school bullies, he’s determined to date Marvel. He doesn’t understand why they seem so close and she refuses to date him, but as the mystery behind her tragic past begins to unravel, Marvel finally confesses her reason: God has revealed she’s destined to die saving others—and it’s going to be soon. (less)
March 7, 2018
As others have pointed out, this is book one of a three novel series and is incomplete as it stands. It's well written (YA, first person guy POV), slow moving like the high school summer it describes, full of tension, mystery/thrills, family drama, friendship, and unrequited romance. Unfortunately, none of the threads are tied up at the end, so if you plan to start this book be prepared to continue on to parts 2 and 3 for the rest of the story. I have a feeling it will be worth the read, just FYI.
It's also a novel with spiritual themes - a Christian story but not "clean and squeaky." If you're looking for inspy, this is not that. It's real. The protag doesn't think of himself as a believer but is attracted to Marvella, a girl who talks freely and naturally about wanting to hear and follow God. Tough themes and topics are woven into the narrative, so should really appeal to today's modern reading teen.
It's also a novel with spiritual themes - a Christian story but not "clean and squeaky." If you're looking for inspy, this is not that. It's real. The protag doesn't think of himself as a believer but is attracted to Marvella, a girl who talks freely and naturally about wanting to hear and follow God. Tough themes and topics are woven into the narrative, so should really appeal to today's modern reading teen.
July 14, 2019
I personally feel like this is a great start to a series. There is a lot of build up, a lot of unanswered questions, a lot of mysterious things going on, & it just was a great introduction.
I think Brandon is an interesting character (obviously the lead). He seems so burdened and heavy from the pressures of everything, yet he somehow has the BEST heart. Marvel is equally interesting. If not for her fashion choices, for her constant giving Brandon the run around with her life & clever, cute little sayings. Even when she starts actually talking about her past- we still know very little.
This book has a little bit of romance, a little bit of comedy, & a whole lot of mystery. (Who dunnit, what's up with Marvel, and the list goes on and on). I also liked a nifty little section that sets up the titles of the rest of this series (cough, cough AWE cough cough GLORY).
Now I just need to get the rest of this series & continue reading!
I think Brandon is an interesting character (obviously the lead). He seems so burdened and heavy from the pressures of everything, yet he somehow has the BEST heart. Marvel is equally interesting. If not for her fashion choices, for her constant giving Brandon the run around with her life & clever, cute little sayings. Even when she starts actually talking about her past- we still know very little.
This book has a little bit of romance, a little bit of comedy, & a whole lot of mystery. (Who dunnit, what's up with Marvel, and the list goes on and on). I also liked a nifty little section that sets up the titles of the rest of this series (cough, cough AWE cough cough GLORY).
Now I just need to get the rest of this series & continue reading!
November 27, 2019
I really love it. It isn't just inspires but it also talks the life. To be awaken in evrything, and teaching us in life that their is GOD who really exists. Love this book, though it's cliffhanging but still I like the concept and the ideas of the author. I appreciate his effort to make a story-- it wasn't easy.
July 8, 2015
I am a Travis Thrasher fan. I was first introduced to Travis through his earlier novels titled The Water Mark, The Second Thief, The Promise Remains, Three Roads Home, Blinded, Letters of War, Home Run and Then I read Isolation. This book wasn’t like his others. I’m a chicken at heart so reading scary stories is not something I seek out. This author has added an element to this novel that wasn’t in his other stories.
Travis Thrasher is a talented author that has written many types of genre’s well. He’s written love stories, mysteries, horror, movie novelizations and coming of age novels. I was thankful for the review copy of Travis Thrasher’s new YA novel so I thought I’d give it a try. I’m glad I did. Marvelous is the first book in a new YA series called Marvella. I was hoping since this was a YA series Travis wouldn’t be too graphic and dark like he was in the book Isolation. I was right. I was hooked from the start, check this out.
“The worst feeling in the world is being stuck. Stuck in a place you know you can’t leave, stuck in a position with no power. Stuck being a person you’d never trade places with.”
“Summer’s barely begun, and I already feel like some kind of prisoner.”
The author has set the tone of the book. It’s written in Brandon’s pov and in first person. This is the summer before Brandon’s senior year. A friend totals his car, he’s now working two jobs to pay his parents back for the car. He had not planned on the string of unfortunate events. Brandon feels strapped until Marvel walks into the Fascination street Record store he works at.
Marvel is beautiful and fascinating. She wants to work at the music store. He goes to his boss Harry and pleads for him to hire her. Braydon gets his wish. Soon he discovers there’s more to this beauty. She’s fun, mysterious, complex and tight lipped. He tries hard to earn her trust! He wants to date her.
Braydon is a guy I instantly liked. He’s a hard worker and takes time to watch out for people, like Seth Blecher; who’s being beaten by school bullies. Braydon had to help. He does his best to be there for Seth.
Braydon is willing to endure his Father’s drunken abuse. He hopes it will protect his younger brothers. He keeps this abuse a secret, which makes him loathe his father. He dreams of the day this violence will stop.
Then a school mate’s body shows up by the river. No clues as to who did this horrible thing to Art. He was Braydon’s age; a nice guy. This turns the small town of Hidden Cover upside down. Nothing like this has ever happened. Braydon talks to Marvel about this and then Marvel feels she compelled to share a secret with him. One she hasn’t share with anyone. Braydon handles the news with grace and compassion.
Then another teen’s body shows up dead in a similar fashion by the same river. This is a game changer for Marvel. She tells Braydon about the call on her life. In order to do what God’s called her to do it she’ll be required lose her life to save someone. Braydon doesn’t know what to think.
I enjoyed this novel it reminded me of the love stories this author has written in the past. It was fun, tender and complex. The author gives a glimpse of big events looming over head that will most definitely appear in the next books in the series. Wonder is the next book to be released January 2015.
This Ya novel is filled with mystery, and adventure. It’s a coming of age novel with a hint of romance, a sense of humor; a serious side too as they deal with the two dead teens, and a supernatural thread. This author talks about relevant topics for teens today – abuse, sex, drugs, alcohol, bullying and has them think about where will they spend eternity? I felt that the novel; Marvelous is the “set-up” book for the series. The author took his time in sharing what he did so readers will get to know this fun diversified cast. You can’t help but get attached to Braydon and Marvel their love story and how they deal with life and their friends.
I found myself rooting for Braydon and Marvel as they try to navigate life separately but are being drawn together. I was anxious about what will happen next for them and the people of Hidden Cove. I was afraid of what the author will surprise readers with next. At the same time the author did give hints about the dark yet hopeful story to come. He ends this book on a cliff hanger and a few questions to think about. On the last page there are two audio playlists. One a Fascination Street Play list and the other is for Marvel. Let the fun begin. Travis Thrasher is a versatile author I enjoy reading. I’m so glad he’s connected with a young audience and speaks their language. Mark you calendars’ to read the next installment of this mysterious series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
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Travis Thrasher is a talented author that has written many types of genre’s well. He’s written love stories, mysteries, horror, movie novelizations and coming of age novels. I was thankful for the review copy of Travis Thrasher’s new YA novel so I thought I’d give it a try. I’m glad I did. Marvelous is the first book in a new YA series called Marvella. I was hoping since this was a YA series Travis wouldn’t be too graphic and dark like he was in the book Isolation. I was right. I was hooked from the start, check this out.
“The worst feeling in the world is being stuck. Stuck in a place you know you can’t leave, stuck in a position with no power. Stuck being a person you’d never trade places with.”
“Summer’s barely begun, and I already feel like some kind of prisoner.”
The author has set the tone of the book. It’s written in Brandon’s pov and in first person. This is the summer before Brandon’s senior year. A friend totals his car, he’s now working two jobs to pay his parents back for the car. He had not planned on the string of unfortunate events. Brandon feels strapped until Marvel walks into the Fascination street Record store he works at.
Marvel is beautiful and fascinating. She wants to work at the music store. He goes to his boss Harry and pleads for him to hire her. Braydon gets his wish. Soon he discovers there’s more to this beauty. She’s fun, mysterious, complex and tight lipped. He tries hard to earn her trust! He wants to date her.
Braydon is a guy I instantly liked. He’s a hard worker and takes time to watch out for people, like Seth Blecher; who’s being beaten by school bullies. Braydon had to help. He does his best to be there for Seth.
Braydon is willing to endure his Father’s drunken abuse. He hopes it will protect his younger brothers. He keeps this abuse a secret, which makes him loathe his father. He dreams of the day this violence will stop.
Then a school mate’s body shows up by the river. No clues as to who did this horrible thing to Art. He was Braydon’s age; a nice guy. This turns the small town of Hidden Cover upside down. Nothing like this has ever happened. Braydon talks to Marvel about this and then Marvel feels she compelled to share a secret with him. One she hasn’t share with anyone. Braydon handles the news with grace and compassion.
Then another teen’s body shows up dead in a similar fashion by the same river. This is a game changer for Marvel. She tells Braydon about the call on her life. In order to do what God’s called her to do it she’ll be required lose her life to save someone. Braydon doesn’t know what to think.
I enjoyed this novel it reminded me of the love stories this author has written in the past. It was fun, tender and complex. The author gives a glimpse of big events looming over head that will most definitely appear in the next books in the series. Wonder is the next book to be released January 2015.
This Ya novel is filled with mystery, and adventure. It’s a coming of age novel with a hint of romance, a sense of humor; a serious side too as they deal with the two dead teens, and a supernatural thread. This author talks about relevant topics for teens today – abuse, sex, drugs, alcohol, bullying and has them think about where will they spend eternity? I felt that the novel; Marvelous is the “set-up” book for the series. The author took his time in sharing what he did so readers will get to know this fun diversified cast. You can’t help but get attached to Braydon and Marvel their love story and how they deal with life and their friends.
I found myself rooting for Braydon and Marvel as they try to navigate life separately but are being drawn together. I was anxious about what will happen next for them and the people of Hidden Cove. I was afraid of what the author will surprise readers with next. At the same time the author did give hints about the dark yet hopeful story to come. He ends this book on a cliff hanger and a few questions to think about. On the last page there are two audio playlists. One a Fascination Street Play list and the other is for Marvel. Let the fun begin. Travis Thrasher is a versatile author I enjoy reading. I’m so glad he’s connected with a young audience and speaks their language. Mark you calendars’ to read the next installment of this mysterious series.
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I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
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December 29, 2017
The mystery in the book is amazing in my opinion but i do agree with some that it is a little boring with the story line.But once you read the second book it starts to not be boring anymore and it starts to make more sense.
September 4, 2021
Super compelling, but didn’t dive as deep into the mystery as I would’ve liked - it focused mostly on the relationships between the two leading characters.
May 5, 2014
Brandon Jeffery’s life is not exactly enviable. His dad is abusive, his friend totaled his car, and the summer before his senior year is going to be spent working two jobs to pay his parents back for his wrecked car. Life is not exactly going as Brandon would like. However, what promises to be a rather bland summer takes an interesting turn when Marvel walks into Brandon’s life. She’s beautiful, mysterious, and like no one he’s ever met. But behind her bright personality is a haunting past that she’s reluctant to let anyone see. With a new friend in Marvel and the murder of two young adults lingering over their small town, Brandon’s final summer in high school turns out not to be so bland after all. In Travis Thrasher’s latest young adult novel, Marvelous is wonderfully brooding with strong spiritual themes and very likable characters.
I can’t believe Marvelous is 350 pages long. With very little effort, I easily read it in two days. This book is really well done. The opening provides a quick hook for the story and instant love for Brandon. The chapters are short, but leave the reader with a strong desire to continue. The writing is so smooth and natural—it honestly feels like Thrasher put no effort into writing it. This is really an intelligent book, streamlined in its layout, feel and execution.
Marvelous has one of the best opening chapters I’ve read in awhile. It sets up the story perfectly. In just a few pages, the reader sees Brandon’s unfortunate home life, but also his noble personality. A brooding tone is set that’s carried throughout the book and leaves the reader a little uneasy. The first chapter truly sets the stage for a great character and the turmoil that follows.
Brandon is such a complex, interesting character and really makes this book easy to read. He is willing to stand up for virtual strangers, but unwilling to stand up to his father. The reasons he will not stand up to his father add depth and make him even more likable. However, despite his personal life, there is this average teenage quality to him. He has a group of close friends, mostly respectful to adults, and can get easily infatuated with a hot girl. He’s just a dynamic character that moves this brooding story in a positive direction.
Marvel’s character is good as well, but more than anything she provides a natural conduit for the spiritual aspects of this book. Her backstory is fascinating and I love the way Thrasher gradually introduces it. The mysterious element that she brings to the story serves nicely as a means to unfold truths about God, His plan, and His purpose. The exchanges between Marvel and Brandon are excellent and impart a lot of truth.
Marvelous has some similarities to Thrasher’s previous series, The Solitary Tales. They are both dark stories which feature a somewhat snarky teenage boy with a rough home life, infatuated with a gorgeous girl. But I personally like Marvelous a bit better. Brandon can be sarcastic, but he also has respect for authority. He is goo-goo for Marvel, but he’s not as dramatic about his affection as Chris was. Overall, the balance in his character makes him a more enjoyable hero. Readers of The Solitary Tales series are definitely going to want to pick this one up.
I really enjoyed Marvelous. It’s a quick, easy to read novel with great characters and good themes. The mood is nice and melancholy and the suspense keeps the pages turning. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
Review copy provided courtesy of Nav Press
I can’t believe Marvelous is 350 pages long. With very little effort, I easily read it in two days. This book is really well done. The opening provides a quick hook for the story and instant love for Brandon. The chapters are short, but leave the reader with a strong desire to continue. The writing is so smooth and natural—it honestly feels like Thrasher put no effort into writing it. This is really an intelligent book, streamlined in its layout, feel and execution.
Marvelous has one of the best opening chapters I’ve read in awhile. It sets up the story perfectly. In just a few pages, the reader sees Brandon’s unfortunate home life, but also his noble personality. A brooding tone is set that’s carried throughout the book and leaves the reader a little uneasy. The first chapter truly sets the stage for a great character and the turmoil that follows.
Brandon is such a complex, interesting character and really makes this book easy to read. He is willing to stand up for virtual strangers, but unwilling to stand up to his father. The reasons he will not stand up to his father add depth and make him even more likable. However, despite his personal life, there is this average teenage quality to him. He has a group of close friends, mostly respectful to adults, and can get easily infatuated with a hot girl. He’s just a dynamic character that moves this brooding story in a positive direction.
Marvel’s character is good as well, but more than anything she provides a natural conduit for the spiritual aspects of this book. Her backstory is fascinating and I love the way Thrasher gradually introduces it. The mysterious element that she brings to the story serves nicely as a means to unfold truths about God, His plan, and His purpose. The exchanges between Marvel and Brandon are excellent and impart a lot of truth.
Marvelous has some similarities to Thrasher’s previous series, The Solitary Tales. They are both dark stories which feature a somewhat snarky teenage boy with a rough home life, infatuated with a gorgeous girl. But I personally like Marvelous a bit better. Brandon can be sarcastic, but he also has respect for authority. He is goo-goo for Marvel, but he’s not as dramatic about his affection as Chris was. Overall, the balance in his character makes him a more enjoyable hero. Readers of The Solitary Tales series are definitely going to want to pick this one up.
I really enjoyed Marvelous. It’s a quick, easy to read novel with great characters and good themes. The mood is nice and melancholy and the suspense keeps the pages turning. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
Review copy provided courtesy of Nav Press
July 23, 2017
4.5
READ THE ORIGINAL REVIEW ON MY BLOG: http://thebookaddictsblog.blogspot.pt...
I got this ebook from Netgalley in return of an honest review.
At the very end of last year I posted a review of Wonder by Travis Thrasher and I genuinely enjoyed it, but I felt like something was missing. It made sense, given that I later discovered that it was actually the second book in The Books of Marvella series. After I came upon this information, I immediately requested the first book, Marvelous from Netgalley and I couldn't be happier to review it right now.
I have stated this before, but I'll say it again: I don't usually read Christian fiction, and I'm not a religious person, but I truly appreciate different points of view on the matter and this series is one of the finest examples of what I'm trying to say. The truth is that I didn't know Wonder was Christian fiction, and if I had known, despite what I just said, I probably would have missed a wonderful story (see what I did there). That would have been a shame, as this is quickly becoming one of my favourite series and it makes me sad to see it be underappreciated and sometimes ignored due to its categorization.
First of all, my favourite thing about these books is its different considerations of religion, through the eyes of very different characters, with very distinctive opinions, so it's not necessarily a Christian book to its core. Anyone would be able to appreciate the shapes and perspectives this subject takes throughout this book and also the fact that it's not exactly the core purpose of the book. There are so many layers to Marvel and her story that is actually difficult to describe them to someone who hasn't read it, especially in this first book, where we get to meet her through Brandon's eyes.
Secondly, it's impossible to talk about this story without mentioning the incredible set of characters created by Thrasher and the subplots they create with their mere existence. They are all fantastically rich and the simple ways in which the author demonstrates their character development is a treat to read. His writing style is lovely to read and goes perfectly with the story he is telling, reason why I honestly consider Travis Thrasher to be a fantastic writer that not enough people have had the pleasure to meet.
The humour and the flawed teenage characters make them so very relatable and we find ourselves seeing our own problems and flaws in them, true representations of young doubt, love and growth, a reason to thank Thrasher for writing such a brilliant book.
If you have not yet read this book, especially if you didn't do it because of the Christian label, ignore all skepticism and dive right in. There is no doubt everyone who does is bound to come out changed and touched in the end.
READ THE ORIGINAL REVIEW ON MY BLOG: http://thebookaddictsblog.blogspot.pt...
I got this ebook from Netgalley in return of an honest review.
At the very end of last year I posted a review of Wonder by Travis Thrasher and I genuinely enjoyed it, but I felt like something was missing. It made sense, given that I later discovered that it was actually the second book in The Books of Marvella series. After I came upon this information, I immediately requested the first book, Marvelous from Netgalley and I couldn't be happier to review it right now.
I have stated this before, but I'll say it again: I don't usually read Christian fiction, and I'm not a religious person, but I truly appreciate different points of view on the matter and this series is one of the finest examples of what I'm trying to say. The truth is that I didn't know Wonder was Christian fiction, and if I had known, despite what I just said, I probably would have missed a wonderful story (see what I did there). That would have been a shame, as this is quickly becoming one of my favourite series and it makes me sad to see it be underappreciated and sometimes ignored due to its categorization.
First of all, my favourite thing about these books is its different considerations of religion, through the eyes of very different characters, with very distinctive opinions, so it's not necessarily a Christian book to its core. Anyone would be able to appreciate the shapes and perspectives this subject takes throughout this book and also the fact that it's not exactly the core purpose of the book. There are so many layers to Marvel and her story that is actually difficult to describe them to someone who hasn't read it, especially in this first book, where we get to meet her through Brandon's eyes.
Secondly, it's impossible to talk about this story without mentioning the incredible set of characters created by Thrasher and the subplots they create with their mere existence. They are all fantastically rich and the simple ways in which the author demonstrates their character development is a treat to read. His writing style is lovely to read and goes perfectly with the story he is telling, reason why I honestly consider Travis Thrasher to be a fantastic writer that not enough people have had the pleasure to meet.
The humour and the flawed teenage characters make them so very relatable and we find ourselves seeing our own problems and flaws in them, true representations of young doubt, love and growth, a reason to thank Thrasher for writing such a brilliant book.
If you have not yet read this book, especially if you didn't do it because of the Christian label, ignore all skepticism and dive right in. There is no doubt everyone who does is bound to come out changed and touched in the end.
February 20, 2016
Home should never be dark or full of shadows and secrets. It should be bright and full of open doors. It should be full of stories wanting to be told. ~Brandon
Marvelous was a great mixture of a book. You've got your "worldly" side, and your "religious" side, and both, in my opinion, merged together perfectly.
A lot of dark things happen between Brandon, the main character, and his father, but as so many oldest siblings do, he decides it's better to keep it a secret and "take one for the team" in order to keep the rest of the family safe. He's unaccustomed to the concept of God (which can make life a very dark place when you're dealing with the kind of thing Brandon is constantly faced with), and often questions why he has to go through such horrible things.
You can stand in the middle of a street and let the drops fall on you and feel refreshed. It's like God's little sprinkler. ~Marvel
On the flip side, Marvel believes in God with all of her heart, and talks about this often. She, too, comes from a pretty dark place, and yet neither she nor Brandon are over-the-top pushy about what they do or don't believe. They're just there for each other, trying to survive, trying to make the most of where they are. This very different belief system is a hard thing to execute without causing an obnoxious imbalance, especially in YA, and I think Mr. Thrasher did a wonderful job of making them meld together.
Another thing I think the author did well was incorporating music into the storyline. Brandon works at a record store (Fascination Street--hello, The Cure!), so a lot of older (great) music is mentioned. On top of that, Marvel has her own musical preferences, so that side of music is mentioned as well (there's even a playlist for both Fascination Street and Marvel at the back of the book).
The entire book takes place over one summer, which is more than enough time not only for a budding romance to grow between Brandon and Marvel, but to include a murder mystery, a bullying problem, and a shady uncle, all of which I'm pretty sure will be explained more in book two, WONDER.
I think a variety of readers will enjoy Marvelous, including music buffs, lovers of contemporary YA, and fans of Neal Shusterman's BRUISER. I can't wait to read the next book.
One last quote:
There are a thousand beautiful things behind that look. A marvelous sort of ache that only a few people know about. Some miraculous sort of sorrow she's managed to walk away from. ~Brandon
Note: I'd say this is upper YA due to drug references and graphic content.
Marvelous was a great mixture of a book. You've got your "worldly" side, and your "religious" side, and both, in my opinion, merged together perfectly.
A lot of dark things happen between Brandon, the main character, and his father, but as so many oldest siblings do, he decides it's better to keep it a secret and "take one for the team" in order to keep the rest of the family safe. He's unaccustomed to the concept of God (which can make life a very dark place when you're dealing with the kind of thing Brandon is constantly faced with), and often questions why he has to go through such horrible things.
You can stand in the middle of a street and let the drops fall on you and feel refreshed. It's like God's little sprinkler. ~Marvel
On the flip side, Marvel believes in God with all of her heart, and talks about this often. She, too, comes from a pretty dark place, and yet neither she nor Brandon are over-the-top pushy about what they do or don't believe. They're just there for each other, trying to survive, trying to make the most of where they are. This very different belief system is a hard thing to execute without causing an obnoxious imbalance, especially in YA, and I think Mr. Thrasher did a wonderful job of making them meld together.
Another thing I think the author did well was incorporating music into the storyline. Brandon works at a record store (Fascination Street--hello, The Cure!), so a lot of older (great) music is mentioned. On top of that, Marvel has her own musical preferences, so that side of music is mentioned as well (there's even a playlist for both Fascination Street and Marvel at the back of the book).
The entire book takes place over one summer, which is more than enough time not only for a budding romance to grow between Brandon and Marvel, but to include a murder mystery, a bullying problem, and a shady uncle, all of which I'm pretty sure will be explained more in book two, WONDER.
I think a variety of readers will enjoy Marvelous, including music buffs, lovers of contemporary YA, and fans of Neal Shusterman's BRUISER. I can't wait to read the next book.
One last quote:
There are a thousand beautiful things behind that look. A marvelous sort of ache that only a few people know about. Some miraculous sort of sorrow she's managed to walk away from. ~Brandon
Note: I'd say this is upper YA due to drug references and graphic content.
June 12, 2014
First off, this is the first novel that I have read by Travis Thrasher, so I am not yet familiar with his style or series formatting. For me, I thought Marvelous by Travis Thrasher started off well enough. I was beginning to like the characters, to feel compassion for Brandon as he faced an abusive father, and I was intrigued by the mysteries that surrounded Brandon and his friends. However, as the book continued, I felt the story began to drag significantly as the summer began to come to a close and nothing had been resolved. Instead, the whole story seemed to center around Marvel and her quirky nature and Brandon's growing obsession with getting to know her better. In the end, everything else was just left to drag behind as unconnected strings, and I still had no idea what was going on with Seth, what person was murdering young teens, and what was going to happen with Brandon and his dad. The only thing that kept me from giving this book two stars was the fact that I found out it is just the first in the Books of Marvel, so I am hoping that the next book will offer more clarity. However, despite my issues with the overall plot of the book, I did enjoy getting to know Brandon, his friends, and Marvel. All of the characters were interesting and fairly realistic, besides Marvel of course. I am still not sure what I think of her, but she is definitely intriguing and appears to have a very close relationship with God, which I liked. I do look forward to seeing what will happen to her as she continues to press forward in following what she believes is God's plan for her life. Some of the visions and spiritual aspects of the book I did find to be a bit odd and certainly abnormal, but it did not detract too much from the book for me. It will be interesting to see how the author develops those in future books. Overall, Marvelous was not my favorite book, nor does it have a very satisfying ending, but it was definitely still an interesting read. I received this novel from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2014
READ IN ENGLISH
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, thank you!
Brandon's life seems pretty normal to everyone. But that's just on the outside, as he has to cope with his abusive father, who's also an alcoholic, and has to pay off his car although a friend crashed it. Working in a record shop as one of his two summer jobs, he meets Marvel and perhaps life isn't so bad after all. But when a teenage boy is found murdered in the sleepy town of Appleton the summer will turn even more remarkable.
When I started reading I couldn't figure out the main character's gender. I never read the blurb before starting a novel and it has a first person POV, so I didn't have any clues. The writing, at least at the beginning didn't help me either. But then of course I figured out it's a boy.
It reminded me a bit of the film 500 days of Summer, but to be honest I don't remember enough about that movie to be able to tell whether the resemblance ends with the name of the girls in the title.
The story is quite slow at times, but I didn't mind it. There were some moments though where I was thinking 'Just tell it!', because they were hinting a lot but it then took them a long time to actually tell what they wanted to say. The ending was very open, but for me this isn't the kind of novel that needs a sequel. As Brandon said, he felt Marvel was a summer girl (not necessarily a girl for just one summer, he just didn't know how she would move to the autumn) and that's what we get. One summer with Marvel.
One little nice extra: This book features a record shop so at the end of the novel there's a playlist with music you probably should listen to while reading the book. Only, as I read the e-book, I only noticed it when I finished reading.
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, thank you!
Brandon's life seems pretty normal to everyone. But that's just on the outside, as he has to cope with his abusive father, who's also an alcoholic, and has to pay off his car although a friend crashed it. Working in a record shop as one of his two summer jobs, he meets Marvel and perhaps life isn't so bad after all. But when a teenage boy is found murdered in the sleepy town of Appleton the summer will turn even more remarkable.
When I started reading I couldn't figure out the main character's gender. I never read the blurb before starting a novel and it has a first person POV, so I didn't have any clues. The writing, at least at the beginning didn't help me either. But then of course I figured out it's a boy.
It reminded me a bit of the film 500 days of Summer, but to be honest I don't remember enough about that movie to be able to tell whether the resemblance ends with the name of the girls in the title.
The story is quite slow at times, but I didn't mind it. There were some moments though where I was thinking 'Just tell it!', because they were hinting a lot but it then took them a long time to actually tell what they wanted to say. The ending was very open, but for me this isn't the kind of novel that needs a sequel. As Brandon said, he felt Marvel was a summer girl (not necessarily a girl for just one summer, he just didn't know how she would move to the autumn) and that's what we get. One summer with Marvel.
One little nice extra: This book features a record shop so at the end of the novel there's a playlist with music you probably should listen to while reading the book. Only, as I read the e-book, I only noticed it when I finished reading.
September 16, 2016
An engrossing YA read that mixes Thrasher's penchant for compelling characters, music, love, and God, against the backdrop of a small town that is being rocked by the murders of two teens.
Brandon is a likable, damaged, soon-to-be-senior in high school, and when the marvelous new girl, Marvella, waltzes into his life like a ray of sunshine breaking through the fog, his word gets turned up side down. She's mysterious, but not in a playing-games sort of way, and Thrasher does a good job of making you wonder what she's all about because she has some unusual secrets she is keeping, just like Brandon.
As with his more adult material, Thrasher infuses spiritual themes into the narrative--good versus evil, God, heaven, hell, etc.--and gives his characters and their world a grittier, more flawed feel than most Christian authors do, so I applaud him for that. The tension between some of the characters comes as a result of deeply unsettling plot points, and Thrasher is to be commended for not pulling many punches here. There are times when some of the villains are downright despicable , so Thrasher does a good job of making these characters rather than caricatures.
And all of this if offset nicely by the titular character herself, because Marvella is a breath of fresh air. Thrasher gives her a sunny disposition without it being cloying, and even as you read each scene, there is something about her presence that is simply magical. You feel good just reading one of her scenes--and this isn't even a real person. That is not an easy thing to do with a character, so kudos to Thrasher for writing Marvella so well.
A really enjoyable book!
Brandon is a likable, damaged, soon-to-be-senior in high school, and when the marvelous new girl, Marvella, waltzes into his life like a ray of sunshine breaking through the fog, his word gets turned up side down. She's mysterious, but not in a playing-games sort of way, and Thrasher does a good job of making you wonder what she's all about because she has some unusual secrets she is keeping, just like Brandon.
As with his more adult material, Thrasher infuses spiritual themes into the narrative--good versus evil, God, heaven, hell, etc.--and gives his characters and their world a grittier, more flawed feel than most Christian authors do, so I applaud him for that. The tension between some of the characters comes as a result of deeply unsettling plot points, and Thrasher is to be commended for not pulling many punches here. There are times when some of the villains are downright despicable , so Thrasher does a good job of making these characters rather than caricatures.
And all of this if offset nicely by the titular character herself, because Marvella is a breath of fresh air. Thrasher gives her a sunny disposition without it being cloying, and even as you read each scene, there is something about her presence that is simply magical. You feel good just reading one of her scenes--and this isn't even a real person. That is not an easy thing to do with a character, so kudos to Thrasher for writing Marvella so well.
A really enjoyable book!
May 30, 2014
This was my first Travis Thrasher novel and a departure from my normal genres. I seldom read thrillers or choose to begin a book when I know that a murder is central to the plot. This book, however, took me by surprise and I can honestly say that I enjoyed it and that I plan to read the rest of the series.
There were a number of heavy themes in the book, from murder to abuse, and yet I never felt bogged down by the evil. The characters made you curious to know more and their thoughtful dialogue, alongside Brandon’s internal reflections, told a powerful story that stirred a hope which was barely expressed in the pages of the story.
My one complaint is that the story did not end. While the season of the story (summer) drew to a close and the author gave us a brief glimpse into the characters’ deepening connection, no resolution was offered on any front. Skillful marketing tactic, yes. Skillful writing tactic, not so much. I much prefer to see authors bring resolution while still leaving the reader with anticipation. But beyond the lack of an ending, I found the story surprisingly engaging.
Marketed for teens, I believe that this book would appeal to anyone who enjoys a look underneath the surface and into the heart. The book would also appeal to a variety of music fans with its numerous references to bands and songs, as well as the playlists that the author provides at the end of the novel.
Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There were a number of heavy themes in the book, from murder to abuse, and yet I never felt bogged down by the evil. The characters made you curious to know more and their thoughtful dialogue, alongside Brandon’s internal reflections, told a powerful story that stirred a hope which was barely expressed in the pages of the story.
My one complaint is that the story did not end. While the season of the story (summer) drew to a close and the author gave us a brief glimpse into the characters’ deepening connection, no resolution was offered on any front. Skillful marketing tactic, yes. Skillful writing tactic, not so much. I much prefer to see authors bring resolution while still leaving the reader with anticipation. But beyond the lack of an ending, I found the story surprisingly engaging.
Marketed for teens, I believe that this book would appeal to anyone who enjoys a look underneath the surface and into the heart. The book would also appeal to a variety of music fans with its numerous references to bands and songs, as well as the playlists that the author provides at the end of the novel.
Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2014
Marvelous is a great book for teen readers. It has mystery, adventure, and a hint of young love all mixed into one book. Brandon Jeffrey is like any normal teenage boy. He has good friends, a job, and a car to drive. However, after one accident that damages his car, he has to work two jobs to pay it off as well as dealing with some family problems. While at one of his jobs, he meets a teenage girl who catches his eye. The girl’s name is Marvel and when he finds that she is looking for a job, he decides to help her by making a bargain with his boss: he will volunteer his time if his boss will hire Marvel. As Brandon tries to get a date with Marvel, horror strikes the town with the murder of one of Brandon’s classmates. While police follow their leads in the attempt to figure out who is the murderer, Brandon gets suspicious that someone is watching him. Will Brandon and Marvel go out on a date? Who is the murderer? What secret is Marvel hiding? All these answers and more will be answered if you read this book.
March 6, 2015
Thrasher knocks this one out of the park. Loved it. The thunderstorms. The lurking danger. The complete lack of safety anywhere. Marvelous is one creepy read, but not too creepalicious. I seriously expected one of the characters I cared about to die by the end of the book. Yeah, there are two deaths, but none that wigged me out. Whew. Dodged the bullet this time, but I seriously need the next book NOW. As in why am I typing a review when I should be over at Amazon buying WONDER, the next book in the series?
My favorite character is Brandon, the hero. He's not perfect, which makes him totally believable, but his heart is big. He's got a lot of questions about God that go unanswered. Again, just like real life, eh? I have hope for him, but there's also a certain amount of dread because there's lots of foreshadowing that goes on in this book. I have high expectations for the next one, but I'm pretty confident Travis Thrasher can pull it off.
If you know a teen that likes scary, I heartily recommend this book.
My favorite character is Brandon, the hero. He's not perfect, which makes him totally believable, but his heart is big. He's got a lot of questions about God that go unanswered. Again, just like real life, eh? I have hope for him, but there's also a certain amount of dread because there's lots of foreshadowing that goes on in this book. I have high expectations for the next one, but I'm pretty confident Travis Thrasher can pull it off.
If you know a teen that likes scary, I heartily recommend this book.
June 4, 2014
This book must be a practical joke because you don't create wonderfully complicated characters and weave them into a mysterious story and end it with this much uncertainty. There had better be a sequel!
The story follows Brandon--a funny, small-town guy who seems to stick up for everyone...except himself. Then Marvel comes to town beautiful, complicated, and thoughtful. Strange happenings start to occur in the town and Brandon comes to term with the fact life can be devastating and Marvelous all at the same time.
Of course, my review doesn't do the book justice for you will fall in love with these characters (and love to hate quite a few others) and the story will stay with you forever. Please, PLEASE read it.
The story follows Brandon--a funny, small-town guy who seems to stick up for everyone...except himself. Then Marvel comes to town beautiful, complicated, and thoughtful. Strange happenings start to occur in the town and Brandon comes to term with the fact life can be devastating and Marvelous all at the same time.
Of course, my review doesn't do the book justice for you will fall in love with these characters (and love to hate quite a few others) and the story will stay with you forever. Please, PLEASE read it.
July 22, 2014
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
"Marvelous" is a difficult book to describe. It is young adult fiction - part romance, part murder mystery, part family drama, part Christian, part supernatural. That's a lot of components to put in a novel, but I felt Thrasher did it well. I found the book to be an engaging read. The characters were believable and likeable. However, it is the first of a series. As a stand-alone novel the ending is very unsatisfying. "Marvelous" acts more as a set-up for whatever will come in the subsequent books of the series and leaves you with more questions than answers. I am looking forward to reading the next one.
"Marvelous" is a difficult book to describe. It is young adult fiction - part romance, part murder mystery, part family drama, part Christian, part supernatural. That's a lot of components to put in a novel, but I felt Thrasher did it well. I found the book to be an engaging read. The characters were believable and likeable. However, it is the first of a series. As a stand-alone novel the ending is very unsatisfying. "Marvelous" acts more as a set-up for whatever will come in the subsequent books of the series and leaves you with more questions than answers. I am looking forward to reading the next one.
January 10, 2015
I liked this book but honestly, it's kind of gruesome and creepy. Also, as much as I loved reading about the relationship between the main characters, nothing really happens in this book. 65 chapters and I still don't know what's going on. I'm really tired of authors pushing for sequels or trilogies when there really isn't a need for one. Whatever was going to happen with this story could have replaced all of those filler chapters and we could have been done with this.
Anyway, it's a cute book but it moves at a snails pace.
Anyway, it's a cute book but it moves at a snails pace.
October 19, 2015
I sat down to begin reading this book today, and I discovered several hours later that I had finished it. An interesting opening to the series - looking forward to seeing where the story goes! Thrasher does a great job of relaying male/female relationships. There's an honesty he brings to them that is natural and enjoyable. For another great example of this talent, read his book "Every Breath You Take." Well done!
July 23, 2014
I really like Marvelous. Brandon is definitely having an interesting summer, with friends being murdered, accidents, and meeting new girl Marvel. The book is a good mixture of being sometimes funny and sometimes serious. I think this book is a must read, especially for teens. I hope this book one of a series because I want to see what happens next.
5 stars.
5 stars.
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