What do you think?
Rate this book
Adam Grant #1
Thirteen
Born at midnight in London, on the stroke of the new millennium, Adam is the target of a cult that believes boys born on this date must die before the end of their thirteenth year. Twelve boys have been killed so far. Coron, the crazy cult leader, will stop at nothing to bring in his new kingdom. And now he is planning a bombing spectacular across London to celebrate the sacrifice of his final victim: Adam.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2014
278 people are currently reading
2455 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
June 17, 2014
SERIOUS OPINION TIME!
I was disappointed with this because it's blurb was so good! I love the idea and damn the cover but I had quite a few problems:
1. As a fifteen year old I felt the book quite condescending. I mean he is thirteen not an idiot.
2. I didn't like Coron's character development. Now I know this is a really picky thing to say but I just need to get it out there. I felt like it was all too obvious, I wanted to question if Coron was right and have his past and acts reveal that he is just nutcase not let it be told to me. I felt like I had been given a presentation on his character and not figured it out myself I didn't get the chance to judge him, he was handed to me a guilty convict and It didn't agree with me.
3. Everything was too easy. I felt like there was no struggle or mistakes anywhere, it made it all too implausible. I needed some sort of real life close escape with the police or something!
Maybe I am just too old for this book. Maybe it's target audience is 8-10 years olds because that when I would have probably enjoyed the book. (That's not a dig, just a statement)
I can say that I liked the end, the really confusing bit with the trapped person because I have no idea what's that about and I would like to know.
Also the cults bit, added a bit of realism.
I fully praise the author in being able to create a book with its own story. I could not have done it but sometimes it's not someone's cup of tea.
I was disappointed with this because it's blurb was so good! I love the idea and damn the cover but I had quite a few problems:
1. As a fifteen year old I felt the book quite condescending. I mean he is thirteen not an idiot.
2. I didn't like Coron's character development. Now I know this is a really picky thing to say but I just need to get it out there. I felt like it was all too obvious, I wanted to question if Coron was right and have his past and acts reveal that he is just nutcase not let it be told to me. I felt like I had been given a presentation on his character and not figured it out myself I didn't get the chance to judge him, he was handed to me a guilty convict and It didn't agree with me.
3. Everything was too easy. I felt like there was no struggle or mistakes anywhere, it made it all too implausible. I needed some sort of real life close escape with the police or something!
Maybe I am just too old for this book. Maybe it's target audience is 8-10 years olds because that when I would have probably enjoyed the book. (That's not a dig, just a statement)
I can say that I liked the end, the really confusing bit with the trapped person because I have no idea what's that about and I would like to know.
Also the cults bit, added a bit of realism.
I fully praise the author in being able to create a book with its own story. I could not have done it but sometimes it's not someone's cup of tea.
July 8, 2014
"Thirteen is the last year of childhood....the boy must be killed before he is a man." - this is a quote from Coron's Great Book . Coron is the deluded leader of cult known as The People. The cult believes that 13 (evil) male children born at the turn of the millenium (in 2000 AD) must be kiiled in order for their "Master" to retain his powers and annoint Coron as the King.
This is an addled excuse for a novel. I really found it difficult to read as the narrative is all over the place. Adam, the thirteenth boy on The People's hitlist is not fleshed out enough as a character for me to care about what is happening to him. His best friend, the plucky Megan, is a better character and better written too. Coron is a cliched, sociopath and not that scary. I was continually disappointed in this novel and I really wanted it to work. The premise itself is interesting and the production values of the book itself (with its yellow cover and great page edges) promised way more than it delivered. The ending of the book indicates there is another one to come, but I won't be bothering.
Don't waste your time with this one - read Gone or Cherub or Uglies instead, you will find better character development, story arc and genuine suspense.
For ages 12 and up, if you can be bothered.
This is an addled excuse for a novel. I really found it difficult to read as the narrative is all over the place. Adam, the thirteenth boy on The People's hitlist is not fleshed out enough as a character for me to care about what is happening to him. His best friend, the plucky Megan, is a better character and better written too. Coron is a cliched, sociopath and not that scary. I was continually disappointed in this novel and I really wanted it to work. The premise itself is interesting and the production values of the book itself (with its yellow cover and great page edges) promised way more than it delivered. The ending of the book indicates there is another one to come, but I won't be bothering.
Don't waste your time with this one - read Gone or Cherub or Uglies instead, you will find better character development, story arc and genuine suspense.
For ages 12 and up, if you can be bothered.
August 3, 2015
JULY 2015:
★ 3.5 STARS ★
CRAZY. ADDICTIVE. THRILLING.
This book was so so addictive! It was tense, exhilarating & had me on the edge of my seat.
The secrets, reveals and twists were AMAZING, keeping me shocked throughout -- never knowing what was about to happen on this roller coaster of a story. Brilliant.
And I was questioning everything! No one can be trusted -- everyone is so mysterious & suspicious!
SO MUCH SUSPENSE!
The only disappoiment was the lack of depth to the characters & character development therefore why I only rated this book 4 stars
The story & premise were so crazy - like SUPER CRAZY -- A cult & killings, how crazy can you get? -- BATSHIT CRAZY. AND I LOVED IT! AHHHHH!
It keeps you hooked from the start til the end, unable to put it down.
If you're looking for a fast paced, TENSE, action packed, SUSPENSEFUL, mysterious & hooking read look no further!
★ 3.5 STARS ★
CRAZY. ADDICTIVE. THRILLING.
This book was so so addictive! It was tense, exhilarating & had me on the edge of my seat.
The secrets, reveals and twists were AMAZING, keeping me shocked throughout -- never knowing what was about to happen on this roller coaster of a story. Brilliant.
And I was questioning everything! No one can be trusted -- everyone is so mysterious & suspicious!
SO MUCH SUSPENSE!
The only disappoiment was the lack of depth to the characters & character development therefore why I only rated this book 4 stars
The story & premise were so crazy - like SUPER CRAZY -- A cult & killings, how crazy can you get? -- BATSHIT CRAZY. AND I LOVED IT! AHHHHH!
It keeps you hooked from the start til the end, unable to put it down.
If you're looking for a fast paced, TENSE, action packed, SUSPENSEFUL, mysterious & hooking read look no further!
August 10, 2015
DNF at 44%
I was really quite disappointed with this read. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't expecting it to be a masterpiece but I really couldn't get involved with the characters or the plot at all. There was basically no depth or background to any of the characters, and it seemed like new ones were being introduced every other chapter. The story was really quite original and a good idea, but the way that it was written ruined it for me. It was also weird to read about a main character with the same name as me (although, of course that's not the author's fault). I don't think I'll be reading any more Tom Hoyle, even though I've got two more of his books.
I was really quite disappointed with this read. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't expecting it to be a masterpiece but I really couldn't get involved with the characters or the plot at all. There was basically no depth or background to any of the characters, and it seemed like new ones were being introduced every other chapter. The story was really quite original and a good idea, but the way that it was written ruined it for me. It was also weird to read about a main character with the same name as me (although, of course that's not the author's fault). I don't think I'll be reading any more Tom Hoyle, even though I've got two more of his books.
August 30, 2025
Actual rating: 0.50⭐️
The characters and writing feels so detached from the story, female characters are just *there* written as these npcs and not even in a considerate way. It’s like they’re only useful and remembered for one sentence.
99% of what kept happening throughout the story literally made no sense. This isn’t a magical fantasy yet it’s like the author didn’t even do any research for the most basic events that happened in this book.
Also the characters are meant to be 13 year olds or teenagers… they don’t talk like teenagers.
Don’t get me started with the overuse of similes what felt like to bump up the word count
I’m not sure if I just don’t gel with mystery thrillers or male mystery thriller authors. So far two books I’ve read under that genre I did not like.
The characters and writing feels so detached from the story, female characters are just *there* written as these npcs and not even in a considerate way. It’s like they’re only useful and remembered for one sentence.
99% of what kept happening throughout the story literally made no sense. This isn’t a magical fantasy yet it’s like the author didn’t even do any research for the most basic events that happened in this book.
Also the characters are meant to be 13 year olds or teenagers… they don’t talk like teenagers.
Don’t get me started with the overuse of similes what felt like to bump up the word count
I’m not sure if I just don’t gel with mystery thrillers or male mystery thriller authors. So far two books I’ve read under that genre I did not like.
April 7, 2015
I read Thirteen because my daughter had asked to read it and I wanted to make sure it was appropriate. I just don't understand what age group this is aimed at. The way it has been written is so basic that it seems like a Enid Blyton level but the plot line is too scary for them. If it's meant for teens then it's an insult! The dialogue is stilted, clichéd and the 'teen speak' is cringeworthy.
There is no character development or description and the plot jumped all over the place and was pretty cartoon like in places, as were the villains in the story. The cult managed to efficiently kill 12 kids but then fail to kill the last boy again and again, they were as menacing as Mr Bean! I felt so frustrated by this book that I just wanted them to get on with it and kill Adam!!
I won't be recommending this to anyone and will NOT be reading the sequel.
There is no character development or description and the plot jumped all over the place and was pretty cartoon like in places, as were the villains in the story. The cult managed to efficiently kill 12 kids but then fail to kill the last boy again and again, they were as menacing as Mr Bean! I felt so frustrated by this book that I just wanted them to get on with it and kill Adam!!
I won't be recommending this to anyone and will NOT be reading the sequel.
March 22, 2014
I received this book via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Unfortunately this book just wasn't for me at all. It reminded me of the, imo much better, Numbers series, and although this was a quick read, it fell flat in many ways.
The plot was very fast-paced and it seems like we are so caught up in the action that there is no opportunity to get to know the characters. I therefore didn't find myself rooting for them as the story unfolded. In fact, by the end I really wasn't interested at all.
Although I know it is CLEARLY not based on a true story, I did find the entire premise somewhat...silly, and left me with a lot of "but why?" questions. I know a sequel is coming, but I won't be reading it.
Unfortunately this book just wasn't for me at all. It reminded me of the, imo much better, Numbers series, and although this was a quick read, it fell flat in many ways.
The plot was very fast-paced and it seems like we are so caught up in the action that there is no opportunity to get to know the characters. I therefore didn't find myself rooting for them as the story unfolded. In fact, by the end I really wasn't interested at all.
Although I know it is CLEARLY not based on a true story, I did find the entire premise somewhat...silly, and left me with a lot of "but why?" questions. I know a sequel is coming, but I won't be reading it.
September 13, 2018
So this is definitely a book for children, just from the language and story building (and the publisher being MacMillan's Children's Books!), and it is a quite a gripping tale about a cult going after a 13 year old boy.... but damn.. the murders, violence and torture(!) feel well out of place in this thriller. I think the violence should be toned down and the story building toned up. 6 out of 12 from me to you... but the actual overall story is still worth a read.
August 25, 2023
The definition of a page turner. The chapters were perfect: short, snappy, left me wanting more. I really struggled to put it down as the plot was continually engaging with new twists and turns, and new moments of danger. Characterisation wasn't as strong as others ive read but I did care about them and was worried for them and wanted to see them get away safe. Shout out to hannah who bought me this for my birthday, and I've taken a while to get round to it, oops.
December 3, 2024
Very interesting and exciting concept. But the start was very confusing, especially because the pov's of different characters overlap with each other. But the more I read the more I enjoyed the story, so definitely will continue with the other books.
One thing I would've adjusted is the fact these children are 13, that's very young for everything that's happening. 15 would've been a better age I think...
One thing I would've adjusted is the fact these children are 13, that's very young for everything that's happening. 15 would've been a better age I think...
April 29, 2021
Excellent book - kept me on the edge of my seat. How come I never read these growing up?
August 4, 2021
lowkey kinda bad and boring and the ending was rushed 2/10 would not recommend
May 14, 2021
This was a good book and I enjoyed the story, but it was a little unnerving to think it’s possible for people to behave the way this group did.
March 18, 2014
The very first thing that hit me as I started reading this book was that it was not at all ‘YA’ material, or if it is then the very young YA readers. The main character Adam and all his friends are thirteen years old or there about. A lot of the issues he deals with (asides from a crazy cult hunting him down of course) are therefore very…I want to say innocent? I found it almost cute with the way he looked at life and how he felt about bullying as well as his best friend (kind of sort of turned girlfriend) Megan aka Meg. In that sense it was very much a younger children’s book. However, on the flip side, about half way through this book becomes really rather dark and sinister, a lot more so than would be expected in a younger child’s book which is why its YA I guess. This dark, twisted side was actually my favourite half of the book, as the story really picked up and started to live up to its scary potential that was portrayed in the blurb.
The writing was really great in this book. Hoyle manages to put us into a thirteen year old’s mind set really well, paying attention to the smaller details that allowed us to see Adams horror and fear at the situations he was placed in and the strength he had in getting past that and being extremely brave for a kid. It was a little bit basic in some parts and I felt the descriptions could have been a little more detailed at times but on the whole it kept you reading and even depicted a little of the good old British slang!
The story is set in England, London and I felt that the writer was true to his location and didn’t just skim over the details of the setting. He describes London and weaves iconic buildings and tube stations and other elements well into the story, really giving it an authentic feel. The characters were great, both the ‘good’ and the ‘bad’. Coron was a brilliant crazy cult leader. I loved how Hoyle showed us just how whacky he was, and how he believed everything he said to be true, but at the same time put just enough emphasis on the fact that Coron was in fact crazy and hallucinating. Adam was a really likeable character, and the way he fantasised about being a hero before talking sense into himself was really cute. He was very well rounded and definitely made me feel for him. Also, the recurrence of the number 13 and its link to just about everything in this book was a great concept and added a feel of superstition to it.
Overall, this book was definitely not what I was expecting, however it was still an enjoyable read with a great plot and characters to match. It is definitely something I would recommend for a younger, male reader who enjoys books such as The Recruit by Robert Muchamore. I’ll probably have to pick this up in its beautiful paperback form for my little brother!
The writing was really great in this book. Hoyle manages to put us into a thirteen year old’s mind set really well, paying attention to the smaller details that allowed us to see Adams horror and fear at the situations he was placed in and the strength he had in getting past that and being extremely brave for a kid. It was a little bit basic in some parts and I felt the descriptions could have been a little more detailed at times but on the whole it kept you reading and even depicted a little of the good old British slang!
The story is set in England, London and I felt that the writer was true to his location and didn’t just skim over the details of the setting. He describes London and weaves iconic buildings and tube stations and other elements well into the story, really giving it an authentic feel. The characters were great, both the ‘good’ and the ‘bad’. Coron was a brilliant crazy cult leader. I loved how Hoyle showed us just how whacky he was, and how he believed everything he said to be true, but at the same time put just enough emphasis on the fact that Coron was in fact crazy and hallucinating. Adam was a really likeable character, and the way he fantasised about being a hero before talking sense into himself was really cute. He was very well rounded and definitely made me feel for him. Also, the recurrence of the number 13 and its link to just about everything in this book was a great concept and added a feel of superstition to it.
Overall, this book was definitely not what I was expecting, however it was still an enjoyable read with a great plot and characters to match. It is definitely something I would recommend for a younger, male reader who enjoys books such as The Recruit by Robert Muchamore. I’ll probably have to pick this up in its beautiful paperback form for my little brother!
September 15, 2014
Perhaps I'm being too harsh in giving it such a low rating. However personally as a reader, I felt that this book did not love up to the expectations I had for it. It has an interesting premise, definitely sinister in some places, but it lacked a true connection with the characters.
I wanted to cheer on Adam, defending himself against this cult. I wanted to sympathise with Simon. Instead frustration took over me, especially as some scenes became too ridiculous for me to comprehend. It was as if the cult itself lacked something to make it a more viably dark group, their efforts were almost laughable. Their motives were hardly justifiable, they just seem to be your average clichéd nutters.
Another issue I had, was the lack of authority. Halfway through, where did the parents go? Why could the police not do there job probably? Even the teachers were not of much use! And it was only towards the end, Adam decides to ponder on why him. Why was he adopted. His thoughts would have been great to explore earlier on!
Perhaps this book is aimed at younger children, hence why it didn't quite click with me. Or perhaps it was because of how it was written, it was quite readable despite lacking some description here and there. A sequel is coming, so potentially it could redeem this book's shortcomings, even though a part of me is unsure as to whether I want to carry on.
I wanted to cheer on Adam, defending himself against this cult. I wanted to sympathise with Simon. Instead frustration took over me, especially as some scenes became too ridiculous for me to comprehend. It was as if the cult itself lacked something to make it a more viably dark group, their efforts were almost laughable. Their motives were hardly justifiable, they just seem to be your average clichéd nutters.
Another issue I had, was the lack of authority. Halfway through, where did the parents go? Why could the police not do there job probably? Even the teachers were not of much use! And it was only towards the end, Adam decides to ponder on why him. Why was he adopted. His thoughts would have been great to explore earlier on!
Perhaps this book is aimed at younger children, hence why it didn't quite click with me. Or perhaps it was because of how it was written, it was quite readable despite lacking some description here and there. A sequel is coming, so potentially it could redeem this book's shortcomings, even though a part of me is unsure as to whether I want to carry on.
February 6, 2014
This is a scary book for a young teen to read. Cults do exist though and this is an intense chase through London by 2 13yr olds to stop The People coming to power.
I would recommend it as something different to the dystopian fiction out. And for fans of The Cherub series.
I would recommend it as something different to the dystopian fiction out. And for fans of The Cherub series.
August 19, 2015
Actual rating: 3,5 stars.
It was easy and exciting, but it fell a bit short on some aspects and I felt that the characters were a bit weak. The cult aspect is very interesting.
It was easy and exciting, but it fell a bit short on some aspects and I felt that the characters were a bit weak. The cult aspect is very interesting.
August 18, 2021
I found this book by chance but when I saw the cover and blurb, I was intrigued. « Thirteen » started off with a quick pace explaining how Adam came to be adopted and not know his real birth date as well as The People’s implication and objectives. The storyline that follows is ok : a regular 13 year old’s life that turned upside down when The People tried to strike. However, a few questions remain unanswered at the end in my opinion.
1. Why did Adam have an unexplainable moment of rage where he didn’t seem to have control over what he was doing ? - I honestly thought there was going to be some explanation for that at the end.
2. What happened to Adam’s parents (or adopted parents) ? - They were in the hospital and injured, which is quite worrying, but there’s absolutely no mention of them at the end. I would expect a brief mention of them.
3. How do Megan and Adam feel after all the events ? They went to the police and acted as if nothing happened; no trauma, no bad memories that haunt them… It’s great for those characters but it’s not realistic : Adam witnessed a friend die and Megan was essentially tortured and almost died herself. How do they just go back to normal ?
Moreover, Viper and Coron’s death, with Megan and Adam being in danger, was well written. The parallel between what was happening with the gong of the clock created a fast pace and dramatic effect.
Would I recommend this book ? No. It’s not a terrible book but it’s nothing exceptional either.
It could be interesting to read if you’re interested in how cults work and think, or if you’re looking for a random read that’s easy. Just don’t expect it to be something amazing.
1. Why did Adam have an unexplainable moment of rage where he didn’t seem to have control over what he was doing ? - I honestly thought there was going to be some explanation for that at the end.
2. What happened to Adam’s parents (or adopted parents) ? - They were in the hospital and injured, which is quite worrying, but there’s absolutely no mention of them at the end. I would expect a brief mention of them.
3. How do Megan and Adam feel after all the events ? They went to the police and acted as if nothing happened; no trauma, no bad memories that haunt them… It’s great for those characters but it’s not realistic : Adam witnessed a friend die and Megan was essentially tortured and almost died herself. How do they just go back to normal ?
Moreover, Viper and Coron’s death, with Megan and Adam being in danger, was well written. The parallel between what was happening with the gong of the clock created a fast pace and dramatic effect.
Would I recommend this book ? No. It’s not a terrible book but it’s nothing exceptional either.
It could be interesting to read if you’re interested in how cults work and think, or if you’re looking for a random read that’s easy. Just don’t expect it to be something amazing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2014
I've spoken previously about, how sometimes, I can look at a book and read it's synopsis and just know that I will enjoy the book. It's a rare gift and is something both my Nanna and Mum can do too, we can all just look at a book and know that it'll be for us. I recall the day I stared at Thirteen in Asda, willing myself to buy it, yet I did not, and I recall receiving it on NetGalley yet not being able to read it before it was archived, but when that third chance came knocking on the door in the form of it's sequel, there was no way I wasn't going to read it, and you know what? I take great pleasure in saying.. I was right.
Thirteen wowed on almost the exact same level as The Hit did earlier this year, I had a feeling I would like it, but it was unlike anything I'd read before, so I was both excited and wary, but what I got was, more of a young young adults novel involving action, loyalty, crazy cults and some absolutely fantastically written scenes with the right amount of tension, character development and crazy, and I could not have been happier when I realised just how good this book was. Hoyle's world building could have been a little a better, I wasn't always clear where I was in the novel, and sometimes characters would find themselves in places very quickly, almost jump-cutting scenes, but this could quite as easily have been my fault for not concentrating enough on the words the page had, alas, I admit this freely. World building aside, Thirteen was definitely everything I wanted it to be.
I really enjoy reading about twisted characters. Hell, I enjoy a good thriller/mystery any day, so the idea of having a cult killing boys born on the start of the new millennium, well, I don't know about you, but that almost sounds like it could be believable, and while areas of this novel did take a beating in terms of believability, I mean, come on, Adam is thirteen, he's a year older than my brother, and I seriously could not see my brother doing anything close to what Adam did, he'd more than likely be one of the twelve already well and truly dead, not to mention, who would like their children stay at a music festival, at the age of thirteen, with no supervision, that and the fact that Megans parents instantly believed everything the police said over the words of a boy they've known their whole lives, I'm sorry, but what? Yet, these are things that quite possibly only bothered me, there's were the features in the novel that I could tell this was Hoyle's début, that this was aimed at people a lot younger than I am, yet I do have to admit, the childish features and age of the protagonists, in some areas, made this book highly enjoyable. There's something really quite fantastic about children at the ages of fourteen and so on being able to do and take on what these characters did, what Adam and Megan were capable of during Thirteen were things even I know I wouldn't be able to take on, so the fact that Hoyle managed to make me not only appreciate what they were doing, but how they were doing it, was fantastic.
Adam and Megan were definitely two characters I enjoyed reading about. Their friendship and their loyalty was completely unbreakable, and their trust in one another was absolutely wonderful, oh, and their small romance, totally on the ball with that paddle boat, but what was absolutely fantastic between them was their unwavering feelings for one another, whether that be their dedication towards each other, the help they gave, the trust they put into one another, and fears they had and essentially, the pain they both suffered through in order to protect the other; there are so many great friendships out there in the childrens department of reading, but this one? This is one the best ones in my opinion. Even how they worked separately, bravely and understanding each other, even thought they were apart, it was fantastic, and their actions against The People, well let me tell you, I haven't flicked through pages that quickly in a long time. I was scrambling to keep up, I was desperate to see what was on the next page, I could not stop reading about Adam and Megan and their terrors whatsoever, or their action, or their skills, the entire plot was moving all the time. There were very few moments of no action, and that probably stems from the fact that areas of the story jumped from one week to two weeks, to a month, but the pacing was fantastic, the whole set-up was amazing and on an entertainment level, this book was superb.
I have a soft spot for childrens books that take on gruesome killings and murders so easily and make them enjoyable, yet serve warnings. Novels like these teach us not to ignore things that might seem out of the ordinary, to not trust just anyone, especially strangers, and they make you aware of exactly how scary, how dangerous and how much you at at risk everyday of your life. is it enough to almost make you never want to leave the house for fear of being tracked and killed? For some people yes, but Adam's story in thirteen was dramatic, and the stage was set from page one. I'm ashamed it took me this long to read Hoyle's work, but I definitely won't be slacking from now on. If you like your crazy antagonists, fast-paced action scenes and a friendship with loyalty abound, you need to get onto this book. Now.
Thirteen wowed on almost the exact same level as The Hit did earlier this year, I had a feeling I would like it, but it was unlike anything I'd read before, so I was both excited and wary, but what I got was, more of a young young adults novel involving action, loyalty, crazy cults and some absolutely fantastically written scenes with the right amount of tension, character development and crazy, and I could not have been happier when I realised just how good this book was. Hoyle's world building could have been a little a better, I wasn't always clear where I was in the novel, and sometimes characters would find themselves in places very quickly, almost jump-cutting scenes, but this could quite as easily have been my fault for not concentrating enough on the words the page had, alas, I admit this freely. World building aside, Thirteen was definitely everything I wanted it to be.
I really enjoy reading about twisted characters. Hell, I enjoy a good thriller/mystery any day, so the idea of having a cult killing boys born on the start of the new millennium, well, I don't know about you, but that almost sounds like it could be believable, and while areas of this novel did take a beating in terms of believability, I mean, come on, Adam is thirteen, he's a year older than my brother, and I seriously could not see my brother doing anything close to what Adam did, he'd more than likely be one of the twelve already well and truly dead, not to mention, who would like their children stay at a music festival, at the age of thirteen, with no supervision, that and the fact that Megans parents instantly believed everything the police said over the words of a boy they've known their whole lives, I'm sorry, but what? Yet, these are things that quite possibly only bothered me, there's were the features in the novel that I could tell this was Hoyle's début, that this was aimed at people a lot younger than I am, yet I do have to admit, the childish features and age of the protagonists, in some areas, made this book highly enjoyable. There's something really quite fantastic about children at the ages of fourteen and so on being able to do and take on what these characters did, what Adam and Megan were capable of during Thirteen were things even I know I wouldn't be able to take on, so the fact that Hoyle managed to make me not only appreciate what they were doing, but how they were doing it, was fantastic.
Adam and Megan were definitely two characters I enjoyed reading about. Their friendship and their loyalty was completely unbreakable, and their trust in one another was absolutely wonderful, oh, and their small romance, totally on the ball with that paddle boat, but what was absolutely fantastic between them was their unwavering feelings for one another, whether that be their dedication towards each other, the help they gave, the trust they put into one another, and fears they had and essentially, the pain they both suffered through in order to protect the other; there are so many great friendships out there in the childrens department of reading, but this one? This is one the best ones in my opinion. Even how they worked separately, bravely and understanding each other, even thought they were apart, it was fantastic, and their actions against The People, well let me tell you, I haven't flicked through pages that quickly in a long time. I was scrambling to keep up, I was desperate to see what was on the next page, I could not stop reading about Adam and Megan and their terrors whatsoever, or their action, or their skills, the entire plot was moving all the time. There were very few moments of no action, and that probably stems from the fact that areas of the story jumped from one week to two weeks, to a month, but the pacing was fantastic, the whole set-up was amazing and on an entertainment level, this book was superb.
I have a soft spot for childrens books that take on gruesome killings and murders so easily and make them enjoyable, yet serve warnings. Novels like these teach us not to ignore things that might seem out of the ordinary, to not trust just anyone, especially strangers, and they make you aware of exactly how scary, how dangerous and how much you at at risk everyday of your life. is it enough to almost make you never want to leave the house for fear of being tracked and killed? For some people yes, but Adam's story in thirteen was dramatic, and the stage was set from page one. I'm ashamed it took me this long to read Hoyle's work, but I definitely won't be slacking from now on. If you like your crazy antagonists, fast-paced action scenes and a friendship with loyalty abound, you need to get onto this book. Now.
May 27, 2018
Although this was written for a younger audience than myself, the story was very well thought out and the characters did have a little depth to them.
Once I got into the story I found myself reading the majority of the book today, which with me doesn’t happen a lot, so my attention had well and truly been captured with this.
Once I got into the story I found myself reading the majority of the book today, which with me doesn’t happen a lot, so my attention had well and truly been captured with this.
March 5, 2018
Okay, this was not a good book.
April 10, 2018
Fast paced; meets the aim of attracting reluctant readers
July 14, 2018
Unpredictable, fast-paced and exciting, thirteen is an amazing book that I would highly reccomend for fans of cherub, young bond or Alex Rider. There is a twist on every page, and it really is worth reading.
January 4, 2025
i think i would've enjoyed this more when i was younger...which makes sense because it is a ya book💀
March 3, 2023
the plot was really good and you never quite knew what was happening. however at the end nothing was really properly explained and the book didn't really make that big of an impact on me.
August 22, 2017
Born at midnight in London, on the stroke of the new millennium, Adam is the last and final target from the thirteen innocent children. Twelve boys have been killed so far. Now Coron is planning a celebration as bombing London whilst they kill Adam. Adam and Megan are now all on there own to face Coron and his men, whilst the police will not help...
February 7, 2024
I did enjoy this book, was very easy to read and kept my interest, read most of it in one sitting. Unfortunately it felt quite obvious and there were no resl surprises of twists and turns, felt rather formulaic. I think it's a good YA novel and I'm interested to read other Tom Hoyle books as quick reads when i need a break from Uni work.
March 16, 2014
When I read the summary, I automatically thought that it sounded a lot like I Am Number Four which I was excited about. Being chased by a clan who wants to kill you and being the "chosen one?" Definitely has an I Am Number Four vibe. However, when I read into it, it became evident that this book has its own flare.
I loved the storyline of thirteen kids being born on the 1st of January 2000 and a clan of crazy ass people chasing after them to kill them before they hit the age of 14 so that their leader can "cleanse the world" of evil. It makes you realise how easily persuaded and gullible's humans actually are.
Adam, the main character, is about to turn 14 in a few weeks and his friend, Megan, has noticed how he has been followed by a boy with a jagged scar going down his neck *queue shiver down spine*
I had such hopes for this book, truly, and it let me down. In particular, the writers writing. Now, I may sound sexist and cringy for saying this, but I am not a massive fan of male authors. There I said it. The only books by male authors that I have read of I can remember of off the top of my head is Christopher Paolini, Phillip Pullman and George R R Martin. I feel that male authors have a weakness and a very distinct one - writing about feelings. Urghhhhhh, it annoys the heck out of me when writers list stuff and don't give us, the readers, a chance to get to know the characters, to get a feel of the scenery before diving into the story. And that's exactly what Hoyle did in this book.
The writing was just horrid. It was like he was making a list or was more focused on the plot, he kept on writing "he did this and he did that and then this happened" rather than why and when and how and urghhh....
But I was able to look past that and the storyline wasn't so bad. It wasn't as good as I thought it'd be but lets just say it wasn't as bad as I Am Number Four's sequel which, FYI, was horrible.
Another tiny complaint I have with this book is that I didn't understand the whole "thirteen kids that need to be killed before they turn fourteen" thing. Like...why? The author didn't explain the concept properly and it just put me off the book. Was it because they were devil's spawn or an alien or what? So confusing.
Overall I would give this book a 7/10, I don't think I will be purchasing it or reading it again.
Have you guys heard about this book? Do you like the sound of this book?
Annie x
I loved the storyline of thirteen kids being born on the 1st of January 2000 and a clan of crazy ass people chasing after them to kill them before they hit the age of 14 so that their leader can "cleanse the world" of evil. It makes you realise how easily persuaded and gullible's humans actually are.
Adam, the main character, is about to turn 14 in a few weeks and his friend, Megan, has noticed how he has been followed by a boy with a jagged scar going down his neck *queue shiver down spine*
I had such hopes for this book, truly, and it let me down. In particular, the writers writing. Now, I may sound sexist and cringy for saying this, but I am not a massive fan of male authors. There I said it. The only books by male authors that I have read of I can remember of off the top of my head is Christopher Paolini, Phillip Pullman and George R R Martin. I feel that male authors have a weakness and a very distinct one - writing about feelings. Urghhhhhh, it annoys the heck out of me when writers list stuff and don't give us, the readers, a chance to get to know the characters, to get a feel of the scenery before diving into the story. And that's exactly what Hoyle did in this book.
The writing was just horrid. It was like he was making a list or was more focused on the plot, he kept on writing "he did this and he did that and then this happened" rather than why and when and how and urghhh....
But I was able to look past that and the storyline wasn't so bad. It wasn't as good as I thought it'd be but lets just say it wasn't as bad as I Am Number Four's sequel which, FYI, was horrible.
Another tiny complaint I have with this book is that I didn't understand the whole "thirteen kids that need to be killed before they turn fourteen" thing. Like...why? The author didn't explain the concept properly and it just put me off the book. Was it because they were devil's spawn or an alien or what? So confusing.
Overall I would give this book a 7/10, I don't think I will be purchasing it or reading it again.
Have you guys heard about this book? Do you like the sound of this book?
Annie x
May 17, 2014
I received this book via a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
This review can also be found on my blog.
My Thoughts:
For a Young Adult book, I’m pleasantly surprised with the subject matter and how it was handled. It’s pretty full on for a book at the younger end of the YA scale – the characters are thirteen. Cults are something I’ve never read about fictitiously before, so I thought it was a very interesting story.
My gripe is not with the actual story, which I think is relevant and really good – it’s with the style. It reads very stark and clinical -- I like complex and emotional. Straight off I’m at a disadvantage. I want to root for the characters; I want to connect with them and feel what they feel, and when I don’t experience anything toward them, this has a huge influence on how much I enjoy a book.
There is a lot of POV switching which I don’t particularly like either. I prefer a book focusing on a couple of characters and getting to know them really well, rather than knowing a little about lots of characters. At one stage, it felt like the story was being told from every character we came into contact with. I’m taking Adam to be the main character, as we see the most of him throughout but he sort of blends together with all the other point-of -views.
The story is very fast paced which I loved. The insanity surrounding the cult leader, Coron, and his followers is excellently portrayed and chillingly realistic. I definitely enjoyed the second half a lot more compared to the first. The ending was a tad anti-climactic, and there is a short build up for a sequel, which gives the impression of lots of creepy things to come. I think Thirteen could be a Marmite kind of book: if you like the writing style, you will adore it. If you’re more like me, then you might not enjoy it as much.
This review can also be found on my blog.
My Thoughts:
For a Young Adult book, I’m pleasantly surprised with the subject matter and how it was handled. It’s pretty full on for a book at the younger end of the YA scale – the characters are thirteen. Cults are something I’ve never read about fictitiously before, so I thought it was a very interesting story.
My gripe is not with the actual story, which I think is relevant and really good – it’s with the style. It reads very stark and clinical -- I like complex and emotional. Straight off I’m at a disadvantage. I want to root for the characters; I want to connect with them and feel what they feel, and when I don’t experience anything toward them, this has a huge influence on how much I enjoy a book.
There is a lot of POV switching which I don’t particularly like either. I prefer a book focusing on a couple of characters and getting to know them really well, rather than knowing a little about lots of characters. At one stage, it felt like the story was being told from every character we came into contact with. I’m taking Adam to be the main character, as we see the most of him throughout but he sort of blends together with all the other point-of -views.
The story is very fast paced which I loved. The insanity surrounding the cult leader, Coron, and his followers is excellently portrayed and chillingly realistic. I definitely enjoyed the second half a lot more compared to the first. The ending was a tad anti-climactic, and there is a short build up for a sequel, which gives the impression of lots of creepy things to come. I think Thirteen could be a Marmite kind of book: if you like the writing style, you will adore it. If you’re more like me, then you might not enjoy it as much.
August 28, 2015
The reason of which I decided to read this book was because the appearance of the book hooked me into learning more about it. Its yellow covered captured my eye. Then I read the back of the book and even tho it didn't have many words on the back it still made me want to know more about what happens. 'Thirteen' by Hoyle was probably the best book I have read. I like how it has so much suspense near the end of the chapters and throughout the book and the suspension makes me want to read the next page and the next and I find myself just lost on the book. I also liked the book so much because the characters and the setting was made me want to know more about who they are and they part in the story. Something I learned from the book was that somethings happen so suddenly, which taught me that sometimes we aren't always prepared for what is going to happen next so we have to treat every second, minute and hour wisely. Something that was most interesting to me was the story-line. I thought that it was impressive for someone to think of a boy being hunted by a certain group that may or may not exist and he just seems like throughout his life he was being prepared for that day that that certain group was going to be after him.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews