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The Clique
The Clique is the story of Audrey Hughes, and the attempt of a boy to win her over by bringing her down. Manipulating her friends, poisoning her relationships, and tearing at her family; Devon will stop at nothing to get what he wants. But Audrey isn’t so easily ruined. She fights for her friends, pulling closer even when they would push her away.
- GenresYoung Adult
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2014
309 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
November 26, 2014
This YA novel "The Clique" would be an excellent remake to "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" (1982) coming of age story and film. (Believe me that's a compliment since it was based on true events and got at least three and a half stars) This story written by the author Valerie Thomas centers around four friends Maddie, Aude, Hannah and Kate . It reads like a "day in the life" of these high school characters and their problems facing peer pressure, being in the popular crowd, sex, drugs, miscommunication or lack thereof with parents but, also about old fashioned values, which the lines seemed to get blurred when you're faced with "everyone else is doing it" mantra. I sorted of related with the Mormon girl. I like in this book that through it all the teen girls stay such a tight knit group, even though at times it may've seemed impossible. This novel is very much a realistic character study of teenage life. I wouldn't be surprised if there was a made for TV movie of Ms. Thomas' novel, in the near future.
July 16, 2015
5 Words: vapid, betrayal, friendship, revenge, shallow.
I guess I just didn't like this. At all. The characters, the way the story was written, the plot... It was just all so vapid and shallow.
It was just the high school popular bitches creating drama out of nothing and back-stabbing and cheating, and even throwing in a dose of slut shaming. Nice, huh?
It was definitely not for me. But I guess Gossip Girl fans would like it?
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
I guess I just didn't like this. At all. The characters, the way the story was written, the plot... It was just all so vapid and shallow.
It was just the high school popular bitches creating drama out of nothing and back-stabbing and cheating, and even throwing in a dose of slut shaming. Nice, huh?
It was definitely not for me. But I guess Gossip Girl fans would like it?
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
November 4, 2014
Just finished reading The Clique and I'm giving it 4.5 stars out of 5 but rounding up. Valerie Thomas does a masterful job of characterizing the social and sexual dynamics among a group of four young high school girls named Aude, Kate, Maddie and Amanda. They're in the popular crowd at school but cope with a lot of peer pressure. The author introduces us to their boyfriends, family issues, some classroom dynamics with Mr. S and the issue of loyalty. The girls have a clear sense of ethics and really care about one another. They confront manipulation, jealousy and sexual pressure in equal measure. I think the issues are handled in a realistic manner by the author. My only critique is that there are problems with formatting throughout the book. The dialogue seems a bit choppy at times but realistic. The characters are likable and attractive. Overall, the story kept my interest. I look forward to reading more from this author. Good job!
November 5, 2014
This is a YA novel, which is probably more suitable for the younger end of YA readers. The story concerns a clique of female school friends and is very much about their friendships and the relationships they have with boys. There are also some interesting side characters such as the parents and a crazy English teacher!
Although there is a plot, the story is much more about the dynamics of the group of friends and how they deal with the emotions of growing up and the challenges of teenage relationships. There are the typical issues of boyfriends wanting sex, parents not understanding, and discovering drugs and alcohol.
This is no harsh reality look at teenage life but much more a positive endorsement of old fashioned values. As such it is a book parents will be happy to see their children reading.
Although there is a plot, the story is much more about the dynamics of the group of friends and how they deal with the emotions of growing up and the challenges of teenage relationships. There are the typical issues of boyfriends wanting sex, parents not understanding, and discovering drugs and alcohol.
This is no harsh reality look at teenage life but much more a positive endorsement of old fashioned values. As such it is a book parents will be happy to see their children reading.
Read
October 21, 2014ARC kindly provided to me by the author.
The Clique is the debut novel by author Valerie Thomas. The author self published her novel on Kindle through KDP [Kindle Direct Publishing]. When I read this book, I kept those factors in mind.
Audrey is one of the popular girls at school, she is beautiful and smart and even has a kind personality. She has three best friends, Kate, Maddie and Hannah. Hannah does not feature much in the book, but both Kate and Maddie play major roles and we often follow them during the book. During this book, the flaws in each of these characters are exposed, as well as their good characteristics.
Devon is a boy who believes that Audrey should be with him, and he goes to great lengths to try and destroy her life by using her friends and family, to try and bring her down to his level.
I must say that this book may put teenage girls off boys, since all of them in this book were real asses, especially Audrey's actual boyfriend, Gabe.
The moral of the story is that of forgiveness as well as that friends and family are more important than boys. I think this is a very good message to send to teenagers. The book also touches on relevant teenage issues such as under-age drinking, drugs and sex, showing how these can ruin your life.
I found that the book was lacking in descriptions. For instance, I have no real idea what any of the characters look like, or the places they go to. There was a lot of teenage slang, which is good for the audience the book is aimed at, but I sometimes found it a bit confusing... I obviously need to get with the times! There were a few spelling and grammar mistakes as well as word choice mistakes, but this will happen when you are self publishing without an editor and agent.
The author has hinted to me that there may be a follow up novel, featuring some of the same characters as well as new ones. I hope that it too will deal with teenage issues and show how to best cope with them and that it too will have a strong moral message.
The Clique is the debut novel by author Valerie Thomas. The author self published her novel on Kindle through KDP [Kindle Direct Publishing]. When I read this book, I kept those factors in mind.
Audrey is one of the popular girls at school, she is beautiful and smart and even has a kind personality. She has three best friends, Kate, Maddie and Hannah. Hannah does not feature much in the book, but both Kate and Maddie play major roles and we often follow them during the book. During this book, the flaws in each of these characters are exposed, as well as their good characteristics.
Devon is a boy who believes that Audrey should be with him, and he goes to great lengths to try and destroy her life by using her friends and family, to try and bring her down to his level.
I must say that this book may put teenage girls off boys, since all of them in this book were real asses, especially Audrey's actual boyfriend, Gabe.
The moral of the story is that of forgiveness as well as that friends and family are more important than boys. I think this is a very good message to send to teenagers. The book also touches on relevant teenage issues such as under-age drinking, drugs and sex, showing how these can ruin your life.
I found that the book was lacking in descriptions. For instance, I have no real idea what any of the characters look like, or the places they go to. There was a lot of teenage slang, which is good for the audience the book is aimed at, but I sometimes found it a bit confusing... I obviously need to get with the times! There were a few spelling and grammar mistakes as well as word choice mistakes, but this will happen when you are self publishing without an editor and agent.
The author has hinted to me that there may be a follow up novel, featuring some of the same characters as well as new ones. I hope that it too will deal with teenage issues and show how to best cope with them and that it too will have a strong moral message.
November 17, 2014
I've received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The book is about young High School girls and their complicated relationships with each other and boys. The story is well written with well-developed characters in such a way that you begin to feel with the girls. The reason I liked the book very much is the message that the book sends - keep your priorities straight! No matter how bad you are hurt, try to think straight. What's more important in life? Is it to make others feel bad and punish them for their mistakes? Or is it to be able to forgive each other and have friends and a string family no matter what?
I think more young boys and girls should read books with a deeper meaning.
The book is about young High School girls and their complicated relationships with each other and boys. The story is well written with well-developed characters in such a way that you begin to feel with the girls. The reason I liked the book very much is the message that the book sends - keep your priorities straight! No matter how bad you are hurt, try to think straight. What's more important in life? Is it to make others feel bad and punish them for their mistakes? Or is it to be able to forgive each other and have friends and a string family no matter what?
I think more young boys and girls should read books with a deeper meaning.
October 23, 2014
The Clique was an interesting book. The plot was driven much of the time by the things that happen with teenagers and is based around a teenager’s life. It does also bring about a point of how much kids can get into. I know I did but while I was reading I was shocked to see the teenagers get into so much trouble! I think I pulled the wool over my own eyes and forgot that teens will be teens and do tend to get into trouble but it’s the peer pressure that also shows its ugly head in this.
I enjoyed reading about the characters but this has a lot of angst. I worried over the situations that Audrey got herself into and the situations that her crush PUT her into. The entire ugly plot was written very well and the fact that I hated every minute when Audrey was ostracized says something about Valerie’s writing. I felt for Audrey even when she made dump mistakes or was talked into giving a guy a lap dance.
The really sad part was when something happened the friends didn’t talk to each other. As much as I think I would have confronted someone I did understand how and why they had the motives they did but I must say Audrey is either pig headed and really stubborn or she’s a really good friend! Sometimes the pendulum would swing between the two!
All in all it’s a lot of teenage angst but the plot was good. The story was interesting and I was curious enough and liked Audrey enough to see it through. I hoped that the girls would learn something out of their mistakes too!
In short: I did like the ending and what Audrey learned but there was a LOT of angst to wade through to get there!
Received for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading about the characters but this has a lot of angst. I worried over the situations that Audrey got herself into and the situations that her crush PUT her into. The entire ugly plot was written very well and the fact that I hated every minute when Audrey was ostracized says something about Valerie’s writing. I felt for Audrey even when she made dump mistakes or was talked into giving a guy a lap dance.
The really sad part was when something happened the friends didn’t talk to each other. As much as I think I would have confronted someone I did understand how and why they had the motives they did but I must say Audrey is either pig headed and really stubborn or she’s a really good friend! Sometimes the pendulum would swing between the two!
All in all it’s a lot of teenage angst but the plot was good. The story was interesting and I was curious enough and liked Audrey enough to see it through. I hoped that the girls would learn something out of their mistakes too!
In short: I did like the ending and what Audrey learned but there was a LOT of angst to wade through to get there!
Received for an honest review.
October 31, 2014
Audrey is a popular high school student. Audrey and her boyfriend, Gabe, like to hang out with their friends Sean, Kate, Maddie, Hannah, and a few others. Devon wants Audrey all to himself and he will do anything to make her his own even if it means destroying all her other relationships.
I was excited to read this one. I love these type of stories…the hero who destroys and bullies the heroine to get her. However, this story just fell flat. At first I was not sure who the main characters were and had to reread the synopsis to confirm the main characters. There were too many POVs and too many characters were introduced in the beginning of the story. Then there were other stories going on which made me lose all connection to the story.
A lot of the dialogue and situations felt awkward. Audrey was very obnoxious. Her behavior was not cute. She was not a very likable character. The premise was interesting, but I think it would have been better to stay with just Audrey’s story. I think the author was trying to tie everyone’s story together, but it all felt out of place. Audrey’s character should have been introduced alone without the five other characters at the same time.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited to read this one. I love these type of stories…the hero who destroys and bullies the heroine to get her. However, this story just fell flat. At first I was not sure who the main characters were and had to reread the synopsis to confirm the main characters. There were too many POVs and too many characters were introduced in the beginning of the story. Then there were other stories going on which made me lose all connection to the story.
A lot of the dialogue and situations felt awkward. Audrey was very obnoxious. Her behavior was not cute. She was not a very likable character. The premise was interesting, but I think it would have been better to stay with just Audrey’s story. I think the author was trying to tie everyone’s story together, but it all felt out of place. Audrey’s character should have been introduced alone without the five other characters at the same time.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2014
The reason I gave this book 3 stars is because I feel it was a little to young me. I'm 36 years old and I don't think this is my genre. However I was talking to my 15 year old daughter about this book and she wanted to know more. This book is definitely for my 15 year old daughter and her circle of friends. I have read other YA books and loved them. Because this book centres on a group of friends and the problems they have with each other, boyfriends and parents it's more a very young teenager book than young adults. It's written very well and in some places very funny. The book shows what teenagers go through when at school and what they have to cope with. What I did like was how the author showed 'a day in a life' of a teenage girl. What she does with her friends, what they talk about and how everyday is like a drama and everyday choices like 'where we going for lunch?' Has to be discussed with friends and boyfriends, which made me laugh because it took me back to my school days.
This is a great book for teenage girls and a great book to introduce to teenage girls who don't read much.
For me, as a 36 year old woman, it's not my cup of tea. I wouldn't purchase this book for a friend, but for my daughter absolutely.
This is a great book for teenage girls and a great book to introduce to teenage girls who don't read much.
For me, as a 36 year old woman, it's not my cup of tea. I wouldn't purchase this book for a friend, but for my daughter absolutely.
December 6, 2014
Valerie Thomas captures the voice of the younger generation in this YA novel. If you are a parent and have teenage children, then this can be an eye opener for you in the behind the scenes life of an average teen. It is also a great read for the YA group.
The book has a lot of drama that is realistic to today's youth laced with drinking, party games, every day conversation, betrayal and some back stabbing too. As I read the book it brought me back to all of the girl drama that I endured with my two teenage daughters that are now grown women. The author delivered that drama just as it happens in every day life.
It's all very real and captured in this book. I felt she could have described the opening scenes in each chapter better, but I still enjoyed it. I truly believe that this could be useful to some parents as they get a look into their teenagers lives. The truth is we don't really know what they do until they grow up and finally confide to us that they weren't perfect as we thought. This happens. Including the drinking behind parents backs or changing clothes once they get to school. This book offers that insight.
However, I would have liked more focus on one main character but I know teens will love this book!!
The book has a lot of drama that is realistic to today's youth laced with drinking, party games, every day conversation, betrayal and some back stabbing too. As I read the book it brought me back to all of the girl drama that I endured with my two teenage daughters that are now grown women. The author delivered that drama just as it happens in every day life.
It's all very real and captured in this book. I felt she could have described the opening scenes in each chapter better, but I still enjoyed it. I truly believe that this could be useful to some parents as they get a look into their teenagers lives. The truth is we don't really know what they do until they grow up and finally confide to us that they weren't perfect as we thought. This happens. Including the drinking behind parents backs or changing clothes once they get to school. This book offers that insight.
However, I would have liked more focus on one main character but I know teens will love this book!!
October 21, 2014
ARC provided by the author.
Okay; the characters, the dialogue and the pure devilishness of some of the characters made this book really interesting. If I am being completely honest, though, I felt like it could use a lot more of what I would call the "in-between parts". I just felt like this book had SO MUCH potential.
For example, one part in the book was a conversation between Kate and Audrey. Kate was going to put make-up on Aude, and all that was written was:
“I know.” Aude closes her eyes. “And I’d try, but you just do it so much better.”
“Thanks. Okay, one more. Aaaand—done.”
I guess I am the kind of reader that prefers more words in-between the dialogue, explaining what's going on. I think a few of these situations would have been fine, but it was as if the whole book was written this way.
I would probably recommend this to younger readers, definitely Young Adult because of some of the language, but I actually really enjoyed it. It held my attention, and it was a fun and quick read. It didn't seem like there was a main character. I thought this was done on purpose, though, and I found it unique and refreshing.
Okay; the characters, the dialogue and the pure devilishness of some of the characters made this book really interesting. If I am being completely honest, though, I felt like it could use a lot more of what I would call the "in-between parts". I just felt like this book had SO MUCH potential.
For example, one part in the book was a conversation between Kate and Audrey. Kate was going to put make-up on Aude, and all that was written was:
“I know.” Aude closes her eyes. “And I’d try, but you just do it so much better.”
“Thanks. Okay, one more. Aaaand—done.”
I guess I am the kind of reader that prefers more words in-between the dialogue, explaining what's going on. I think a few of these situations would have been fine, but it was as if the whole book was written this way.
I would probably recommend this to younger readers, definitely Young Adult because of some of the language, but I actually really enjoyed it. It held my attention, and it was a fun and quick read. It didn't seem like there was a main character. I thought this was done on purpose, though, and I found it unique and refreshing.
November 8, 2014
This entertaining YA read is a realistic look at American teenage life that has more going on than it first appears. While author Valerie Thomas explores the usual high school issues of drinking, sexuality, and strained relationships with parents, she also examines what it's like to be a girl raised Mormon who questions the faith. Even minor characters are well drawn, including an eccentric but endearing teacher, and a devious, frighteningly intelligent high school boy intent on getting the girl he wants by any means necessary. With themes of betrayal, loyalty, and forgiveness, The Clique is ultimately a story of the redeeming power of friendship. I enjoyed it and I recommend it!
October 18, 2014
She was popular. She had the best of friends. But she also had a boy that wanted her badly enough that he’d ruin her to have the chance to have her. Aude’s world of perfection slowly crumbles as one boy chips away at her life, manipulating his way into her life. But she isn’t the kind of girl to just walk away without a fight.
I struggled. A lot. I wasn’t too sure exactly what to expect when I started this. The idea seemed interesting, enough to lure me into reading it. But I from the start I was left a little confused. It took me nearly the entire book to focus in on who the main character was. She got lost in the midst of all of the other voices and with so many characters involved, it wasn’t always clear as to who was taking the lead at any particular moment.
As this is an ARC, I understand that the editing process was not yet finished. But two things that stuck out were the change of the MC’s name from Aude (Audrey) to Ava at a few moments in the story and then the mix up in the relationship that Aude’s bestie Kate had been with Sean, it was a mix up of the characters. Ten months (Kate & Sean) to two years (Aude & Gabe). I think I’d normally overlook those two things, but the fact that I struggled to keep these characters separated in my own head the whole time, it just made it feel like the confusion over it all was not just my experience, but embedded into the story itself.
Overall this was a story that reminded me a lot of teen films similar to Mean Girls. The whole clique – the popular kids with perfect lives, all not so perfect when you look beyond what is on the surface. The manipulation that occurs when you’re willing to do whatever it takes to get what you want. I just wasn’t sure if the delivery allowed the Devon situation to really make enough sense. Maybe the story wasn’t supposed to focus on his need to destroy her to get her, maybe it was all about her fight to overcome it... but being that his action was the motivation behind the scenes, I just felt like there was something missing in the story line/plot. Like his actions served only the purpose to drive the next scene rather than being part of it.
Unfortunately this one just wasn’t for me. I just couldn’t connect to any of the characters because it was too difficult to make a clear distinction as to which character was taking the lead at any given time during the story, the point of view just felt off. I think I would have enjoyed this more had there just been clear POV changes from character to character, even if that caused some overlap in the story to get the whole picture.
I struggled. A lot. I wasn’t too sure exactly what to expect when I started this. The idea seemed interesting, enough to lure me into reading it. But I from the start I was left a little confused. It took me nearly the entire book to focus in on who the main character was. She got lost in the midst of all of the other voices and with so many characters involved, it wasn’t always clear as to who was taking the lead at any particular moment.
As this is an ARC, I understand that the editing process was not yet finished. But two things that stuck out were the change of the MC’s name from Aude (Audrey) to Ava at a few moments in the story and then the mix up in the relationship that Aude’s bestie Kate had been with Sean, it was a mix up of the characters. Ten months (Kate & Sean) to two years (Aude & Gabe). I think I’d normally overlook those two things, but the fact that I struggled to keep these characters separated in my own head the whole time, it just made it feel like the confusion over it all was not just my experience, but embedded into the story itself.
Overall this was a story that reminded me a lot of teen films similar to Mean Girls. The whole clique – the popular kids with perfect lives, all not so perfect when you look beyond what is on the surface. The manipulation that occurs when you’re willing to do whatever it takes to get what you want. I just wasn’t sure if the delivery allowed the Devon situation to really make enough sense. Maybe the story wasn’t supposed to focus on his need to destroy her to get her, maybe it was all about her fight to overcome it... but being that his action was the motivation behind the scenes, I just felt like there was something missing in the story line/plot. Like his actions served only the purpose to drive the next scene rather than being part of it.
Unfortunately this one just wasn’t for me. I just couldn’t connect to any of the characters because it was too difficult to make a clear distinction as to which character was taking the lead at any given time during the story, the point of view just felt off. I think I would have enjoyed this more had there just been clear POV changes from character to character, even if that caused some overlap in the story to get the whole picture.
Read
October 23, 2014
The Clique was an interesting book. The plot was driven much of the time by the things that happen with teenagers and is based around a teenager's life. It does also bring about a point of how much kids can get into. I know I did but while I was reading I was shocked to see the teenagers get into so much trouble! I think I pulled the wool over my own eyes and forgot that teens will be teens and do tend to get into trouble but it's the peer pressure that also shows its ugly head in this.
I enjoyed reading about the characters but this has a lot of angst. I worried over the situations that Audrey got herself into and the situations that her crush PUT her into. The entire ugly plot was written very well and the fact that I hated every minute when Audrey was ostracized says something about Valerie's writing. I felt for Audrey even when she made dump mistakes or was talked into giving a guy a lap dance.
The really sad part was when something happened the friends didn't talk to each other. As much as I think I would have confronted someone I did understand how and why they had the motives they did but I must say Audrey is either pig headed and really stubborn or she's a really good friend! Sometimes the pendulum would swing between the two!
All in all it's a lot of teenage angst but the plot was good. The story was interesting and I was curious enough and liked Audrey enough to see it through. I hoped that the girls would learn something out of their mistakes too!
In short: I did like the ending and what Audrey learned but there was a LOT of angst to wade through to get there!
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This review was originally posted on Creating Serenity
January 31, 2015
Originally posted here: http://thereadingwonderland.blogspot....
I'll admit I didn't really like this book, it's took me a few days to review it and honestly now that I'm sat here I can't remember a thing, which to me means that this book wasn't all that remarkable. I read it in one sitting so it's quick at least.
I found it completely unrealistic. They get a new AP lit teacher who takes them immediately outside to essentially show them how to live? No thank you, if I wanted Dead Poet's Society I'd watch the movie (which I just might once I've published this review). Also, no offence to any teachers who are trying to teach their kids carpe diem, but if my AP lit teacher (from what I gather AP is the American equivalent to a higher class in GCSE) wasted the first lesson like that I would be making some complaints. Sorry not sorry.
The characters were completely over the top in their bitchy ways too. I mean I do understand that girls are mean (I am in fact a girl, who has both been mean and had mean things done to her) but this just seems to be far too extreme. It made teenagers look like psychopaths, honestly. It also reminded me kind of PLL? An over the top mystery/thriller in which the popular girls are slowly dismantled. A completely unoriginal storyline.
I'd also like to talk about the restaurant scene. The boy books a fancy restaurant in advance, and the couple mess around and of course ruin it for the other diners so get kicked out. This could have been cute I'll be honest, in a John Green or Stephanie Perkin's book this would have been my thing, but not here. The couple just comes across as arrogant, and quite frankly threatening. Like really? Stop that.
I don't think the author has ever met a teenager and I think she's forgotten what it is to be one. A trait I absolutely despise in YA authors, it makes their writing unrelatable and hard to read.
I rated this book 1 star on Goodreads.
This book was given to me in exchange for a review, all opinions are my own and in no way affected by the author or publisher.
I'll admit I didn't really like this book, it's took me a few days to review it and honestly now that I'm sat here I can't remember a thing, which to me means that this book wasn't all that remarkable. I read it in one sitting so it's quick at least.
I found it completely unrealistic. They get a new AP lit teacher who takes them immediately outside to essentially show them how to live? No thank you, if I wanted Dead Poet's Society I'd watch the movie (which I just might once I've published this review). Also, no offence to any teachers who are trying to teach their kids carpe diem, but if my AP lit teacher (from what I gather AP is the American equivalent to a higher class in GCSE) wasted the first lesson like that I would be making some complaints. Sorry not sorry.
The characters were completely over the top in their bitchy ways too. I mean I do understand that girls are mean (I am in fact a girl, who has both been mean and had mean things done to her) but this just seems to be far too extreme. It made teenagers look like psychopaths, honestly. It also reminded me kind of PLL? An over the top mystery/thriller in which the popular girls are slowly dismantled. A completely unoriginal storyline.
I'd also like to talk about the restaurant scene. The boy books a fancy restaurant in advance, and the couple mess around and of course ruin it for the other diners so get kicked out. This could have been cute I'll be honest, in a John Green or Stephanie Perkin's book this would have been my thing, but not here. The couple just comes across as arrogant, and quite frankly threatening. Like really? Stop that.
I don't think the author has ever met a teenager and I think she's forgotten what it is to be one. A trait I absolutely despise in YA authors, it makes their writing unrelatable and hard to read.
I rated this book 1 star on Goodreads.
This book was given to me in exchange for a review, all opinions are my own and in no way affected by the author or publisher.
August 6, 2015
Also posted here
http://reviewsofyabooks.blogspot.ca/
Introduction (official synopsis)
The Clique is the story of Audrey Hughes, and the attempt of a boy to win her over by bringing her down. Manipulating her friends, poisoning her relationships, and tearing at her family; Devon will stop at nothing to get what he wants. But Audrey isn’t so easily ruined. She fights for her friends, pulling closer even when they would push her away.
Cover
The cover, is beautiful. It looks as though it is sketched into paper with a pencil and I love it. Though, I do not believe that it is fitting for the story. I think a more fitting cover may have been Audrey and her friends, since the book centers around friendship. All that aside, though. It is very appealing to the eyes.
Characters
The book mostly centers around Audrey, but also has little bits of her friends, Hannah, Maddie, and Kate. I found that they were all kind of the same. Other than the fact that Audrey hates cussing and is admittedly a virgin. All of the girls in this book are the same popular teenage girl I am tired of reading about. In fact, they were so the same, that I kept getting confused as which girl was dating what guy and little things like that.
Dislikes
Hannah, Maddie, Audrey and Kate throw parties and drink and fool around with guys frequently in the book, which I found boring and just a way to make the girls look "edgy" and "badass" I for one, wasn't buying it for one minute.
Conclusion
This book didn't hold my attention at all. The characters were worn out and tired, the drama inside was boring and childish. I wouldn't read this book again. Would I ever recommend this book? Maybe. Not necessarily for young adults. This book might be better suited for a middle-grade audience.
http://reviewsofyabooks.blogspot.ca/
Introduction (official synopsis)
The Clique is the story of Audrey Hughes, and the attempt of a boy to win her over by bringing her down. Manipulating her friends, poisoning her relationships, and tearing at her family; Devon will stop at nothing to get what he wants. But Audrey isn’t so easily ruined. She fights for her friends, pulling closer even when they would push her away.
Cover
The cover, is beautiful. It looks as though it is sketched into paper with a pencil and I love it. Though, I do not believe that it is fitting for the story. I think a more fitting cover may have been Audrey and her friends, since the book centers around friendship. All that aside, though. It is very appealing to the eyes.
Characters
The book mostly centers around Audrey, but also has little bits of her friends, Hannah, Maddie, and Kate. I found that they were all kind of the same. Other than the fact that Audrey hates cussing and is admittedly a virgin. All of the girls in this book are the same popular teenage girl I am tired of reading about. In fact, they were so the same, that I kept getting confused as which girl was dating what guy and little things like that.
Dislikes
Hannah, Maddie, Audrey and Kate throw parties and drink and fool around with guys frequently in the book, which I found boring and just a way to make the girls look "edgy" and "badass" I for one, wasn't buying it for one minute.
Conclusion
This book didn't hold my attention at all. The characters were worn out and tired, the drama inside was boring and childish. I wouldn't read this book again. Would I ever recommend this book? Maybe. Not necessarily for young adults. This book might be better suited for a middle-grade audience.
June 27, 2016
DNF at 25%
This was one of the first books I got from Netgalley, and I’ve waited a long time before reading it. Maybe I had a premonition? I don’t know. I don’t really like to DNF a book because it makes me feel like a quitter. And who wants that? But I just couldn’t go further with this one.
I stopped reading at about 25%. So no, I didn’t make it very far. From the very beginning, I knew I would dislike the characters. In the first chapters, you meet all of the girls in their clique so you’d think they are all friends. But one called the other slutty behind her back, and they all have quite bitchy thoughts about each other. THESE PEOPLE ARE NOT FRIENDS. At that point, I was already hoping for a big character development from the beginning, because I knew I wouldn’t be able to continue like that.
Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. All of the girls think of one of their friends as slutty, Aude and her boyfriend acted so immature they were thrown out of a restaurant, one guy is dating someone even though he has a crush on someone else, Aude is dating even though she thinks of dating in high school as just finding a person you like enough. To be honest, I thought these people were the annoying stereotype of teenagers. They felt back-stabbing, rude and immature –and yes, I know that technically they are teenagers but still.
I feel like this book is mainly based on characters, and because I didn’t like those, this book just wasn’t for me. If you like the description, I’d say give it a try. Maybe you will enjoy it! It just wasn’t a book for me.
As I didn’t actually finish this book, I didn’t give it a rating. I also didn’t count it for my 2015 reading challenges
This was one of the first books I got from Netgalley, and I’ve waited a long time before reading it. Maybe I had a premonition? I don’t know. I don’t really like to DNF a book because it makes me feel like a quitter. And who wants that? But I just couldn’t go further with this one.
I stopped reading at about 25%. So no, I didn’t make it very far. From the very beginning, I knew I would dislike the characters. In the first chapters, you meet all of the girls in their clique so you’d think they are all friends. But one called the other slutty behind her back, and they all have quite bitchy thoughts about each other. THESE PEOPLE ARE NOT FRIENDS. At that point, I was already hoping for a big character development from the beginning, because I knew I wouldn’t be able to continue like that.
Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. All of the girls think of one of their friends as slutty, Aude and her boyfriend acted so immature they were thrown out of a restaurant, one guy is dating someone even though he has a crush on someone else, Aude is dating even though she thinks of dating in high school as just finding a person you like enough. To be honest, I thought these people were the annoying stereotype of teenagers. They felt back-stabbing, rude and immature –and yes, I know that technically they are teenagers but still.
I feel like this book is mainly based on characters, and because I didn’t like those, this book just wasn’t for me. If you like the description, I’d say give it a try. Maybe you will enjoy it! It just wasn’t a book for me.
As I didn’t actually finish this book, I didn’t give it a rating. I also didn’t count it for my 2015 reading challenges
November 2, 2014
I received this book for a review.
The Clique is the story of Audrey Hughes, and the attempt of a boy to win her over by bringing her down. Manipulating her friends, poisoning her relationships, and tearing at her family; Devon will stop at nothing to get what he wants. But Audrey isn’t so easily ruined. She fights for her friends, pulling closer even when they would push her away.
The Title spoke for it’s self. While it was about Audrey, it wasn’t solely focused on her, you get to hear about her friends OR the rest of her clique. I was very interesting. kept my attention. It also has plenty of drama. There were things I liked about this book, and there were things I didn’t like.
LIKED:
That Audrey didn’t let Devon beat her, she kept trying to keep her friends and family close.
That Maddie finally had the courage to speak up.
The revenge that Kate gets. GO Kate!!
That the characters had there own personality detail went into them.
DIDN’T LIKE:
The fact that when Audrey was almost raped, it seemed that nobody cared. The police were not called. Her friends didn’t try to comfort her. I would have like to see someone care!
I would have liked for something for when it came to Devon’s punishment. Or at the very least more descriptions about him and his punishment. Also who did he have a picture of?
I wished for a little more action
But overall this book was really interesting, kept my attention, good high school drama book!
Would recommend to anyone who likes high school books, highschool drama, mystery, Girl YA, or just a light read!
Three Out Of Five Stars!
The Clique is the story of Audrey Hughes, and the attempt of a boy to win her over by bringing her down. Manipulating her friends, poisoning her relationships, and tearing at her family; Devon will stop at nothing to get what he wants. But Audrey isn’t so easily ruined. She fights for her friends, pulling closer even when they would push her away.
The Title spoke for it’s self. While it was about Audrey, it wasn’t solely focused on her, you get to hear about her friends OR the rest of her clique. I was very interesting. kept my attention. It also has plenty of drama. There were things I liked about this book, and there were things I didn’t like.
LIKED:
That Audrey didn’t let Devon beat her, she kept trying to keep her friends and family close.
That Maddie finally had the courage to speak up.
The revenge that Kate gets. GO Kate!!
That the characters had there own personality detail went into them.
DIDN’T LIKE:
The fact that when Audrey was almost raped, it seemed that nobody cared. The police were not called. Her friends didn’t try to comfort her. I would have like to see someone care!
I would have liked for something for when it came to Devon’s punishment. Or at the very least more descriptions about him and his punishment. Also who did he have a picture of?
I wished for a little more action
But overall this book was really interesting, kept my attention, good high school drama book!
Would recommend to anyone who likes high school books, highschool drama, mystery, Girl YA, or just a light read!
Three Out Of Five Stars!
May 14, 2015
At first I wasn't sure what to make of this, it just felt like any other generic high school drama, and I wasn't that keen on the present tense narration.
But then it took a darker turn.
Sometimes, this felt like the second in a series though, even though it isn't. There were a lot of references to something Amanda had done at a party previously, but it was never fully explained and it felt like something we should have read about in a previous book.
But then it took a darker turn.
Sometimes, this felt like the second in a series though, even though it isn't. There were a lot of references to something Amanda had done at a party previously, but it was never fully explained and it felt like something we should have read about in a previous book.
November 10, 2014
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really hate having to write a bad review, but sometimes it just can't be helped.
This book revolves around Audrey and her friends and the boy who is trying to split them apart in order to break Audrey down to his level in order to get her to go out with him. Let me just say that I personally didn't like a single guy in this whole book. I don't mind a bad boy that turns out to be good or even a bad boy who is a jerk to everyone but his girl but none of the male characters had any redeaming qualities. Devon was a warped minded psycho, Sean was a jerk who only wanted his girlfriend so he could get close to her best friend Audrey, and Gabe not only pressures his girlfriend in to having sex but also sleeps with another girl and Audrey pretty much forgives him. I mean really nobody is that naive.
This book jumps around so much that I wouldn't even say that it really has a main character. Devon is more like a supporting character and its so unorganized that the first half of the book I couldn't even tell who the story was really supposed to be about.
Unfortunately the rest of the book doesn't get much better with a very unsatisfying ending.
The premise of this book is so good I felt really disappointed that I didn't get to read the book I was hoping to read. It has so much promise but unfortunately it just fell flat.
I really hate having to write a bad review, but sometimes it just can't be helped.
This book revolves around Audrey and her friends and the boy who is trying to split them apart in order to break Audrey down to his level in order to get her to go out with him. Let me just say that I personally didn't like a single guy in this whole book. I don't mind a bad boy that turns out to be good or even a bad boy who is a jerk to everyone but his girl but none of the male characters had any redeaming qualities. Devon was a warped minded psycho, Sean was a jerk who only wanted his girlfriend so he could get close to her best friend Audrey, and Gabe not only pressures his girlfriend in to having sex but also sleeps with another girl and Audrey pretty much forgives him. I mean really nobody is that naive.
This book jumps around so much that I wouldn't even say that it really has a main character. Devon is more like a supporting character and its so unorganized that the first half of the book I couldn't even tell who the story was really supposed to be about.
Unfortunately the rest of the book doesn't get much better with a very unsatisfying ending.
The premise of this book is so good I felt really disappointed that I didn't get to read the book I was hoping to read. It has so much promise but unfortunately it just fell flat.
November 26, 2014
The Clique was an okay read. The story depicts how friends cope with alleged betrayal among other things. But while it had great potential, I wasn't all the way there for me.
Character-wise, I didn't really connect with anyone, and there were some things that kind of bugged me. For instance, I feel like their friendship wasn't all that great to begin with because of the stuff they'd think or say behind each other's backs. Audrey came off as the goody-goody but I honestly liked her character more. As for Katie, she was always trying to do what Audrey would do, or think like her friend. She was so quick to believe the lies and turn her back on her best friend. And I feel as if the animosity and jealousy was always there, so I wasn't all that surprised by her reaction.
In regards to Maggie, she was just the same. So easily manipulated, and her reasons for working with the enemy were just shallow and selfish. I couldn't sympathize with her at all.
Overall, it was a good read with easy and fast-paced writing. However, I felt that the blurb shouldn't have made the story seem like it was all about Audrey and the guy that liked her, because the majority of the first half was about her friends and their individual issues. Regardless, I liked it for the most part.
Character-wise, I didn't really connect with anyone, and there were some things that kind of bugged me. For instance, I feel like their friendship wasn't all that great to begin with because of the stuff they'd think or say behind each other's backs. Audrey came off as the goody-goody but I honestly liked her character more. As for Katie, she was always trying to do what Audrey would do, or think like her friend. She was so quick to believe the lies and turn her back on her best friend. And I feel as if the animosity and jealousy was always there, so I wasn't all that surprised by her reaction.
In regards to Maggie, she was just the same. So easily manipulated, and her reasons for working with the enemy were just shallow and selfish. I couldn't sympathize with her at all.
Overall, it was a good read with easy and fast-paced writing. However, I felt that the blurb shouldn't have made the story seem like it was all about Audrey and the guy that liked her, because the majority of the first half was about her friends and their individual issues. Regardless, I liked it for the most part.
March 18, 2015
The story that brought me lots of memories from my schools days!
Valerie Thomas is the author of a novel about…LIFE. A modern life that most of Americans or Europeans have experienced in our high school days.
Life is not easy and less when you are a teenager. In The Clique, we read about the lives and relationships between the four main characters, Maddie, Aude, Hannah, and Kate.
I remember when every single party represented the best day of my life, my first contact with drugs and alcohol, my first sexual relationship, the first time when somebody cheated on me, my problems at the school, the distance with my parents… How many times have we told them that they did not understand us?
Because this is what happens with teenagers…they cry and they laugh, they love and fight with an endless energy. This is actually the beauty of those times too…we lived and experienced everything as if those days were actually the last days of our lives…
The Clique has reminded me of Sofia Coppola’s The Bling Ring or Stephen Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower movies. If you’ve ever been a teenager, you will love it.
Valerie Thomas is the author of a novel about…LIFE. A modern life that most of Americans or Europeans have experienced in our high school days.
Life is not easy and less when you are a teenager. In The Clique, we read about the lives and relationships between the four main characters, Maddie, Aude, Hannah, and Kate.
I remember when every single party represented the best day of my life, my first contact with drugs and alcohol, my first sexual relationship, the first time when somebody cheated on me, my problems at the school, the distance with my parents… How many times have we told them that they did not understand us?
Because this is what happens with teenagers…they cry and they laugh, they love and fight with an endless energy. This is actually the beauty of those times too…we lived and experienced everything as if those days were actually the last days of our lives…
The Clique has reminded me of Sofia Coppola’s The Bling Ring or Stephen Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower movies. If you’ve ever been a teenager, you will love it.
March 27, 2015
For this book, I had to bring myself back to my high school days (more than 20 years ago) to get in the right mind frame. Once I did that, I was able to enjoy it as it should have been. This YA sets around the lives and very complicated relationships between several girls and their respective boyfriends. The dynamics between the girls is one that I found was nearly on point with reality. Laughing and hanging out one minute and then upset the next. And the drama coming from some of the fellas aren’t helping. Between the secret crush, the want to be accepted and all of the insecurities that there are, this could have very well been my high school experience. Minus the weird and crazy teacher. However, I wish Ms. Thomas went a bit deeper with their backgrounds and descriptions. I would have loved to know a bit more about them and what truly makes them tick. But outside of that I truly enjoyed this book, as I found myself pulling out my HS yearbook and reminiscing. I would defiantly recommend this to any young person who wants to find someone who captures their voice. Nice job Ms. Thomas!
Read
January 5, 2015THE CLIQUE features Audrey Hughes and her friends who face a threat they never saw coming. Audrey is the “it-girl” – the one who the boys want to date and the girls want to be friends with. THE CLIQUE wasn’t all about Audrey and her stalker, but featured a lot about what was going on with her friends as well. I wasn’t a fan of many of the characters, but with them being teenagers, sometimes it’s natural feeling. The dialogue came across as true, showing the authors ease with teenagers and their interactions. THE CLIQUE seemed a bit derivative and I’d like to have seen more meat to the story and characters. While it was sometimes difficult to bring myself to care about what was happening to Audrey and her friends, there were deep issues which the author touched on which are very important to teenagers to explore and discuss.
October 20, 2014
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
With everyone story there is a main character and clearly the book revolves around this girl Audrey and her friends "The Clique" and therefore the main character should be Audrey? Yet Audrey's personality is completely undermined and buried behind the horror of all the people she knows. We've got liars, cheaters, back-stabbers and psycho's galore in this book: no bad personality trait is left unsubscribed.
Although there are multiple different crazy scenario's the whole story unfolds in a 2-3 month period were it almost feels as though it happens all in a few hours-a bit of a lack of a time-line.
The story has a great message, if you can look past it's faults.
With everyone story there is a main character and clearly the book revolves around this girl Audrey and her friends "The Clique" and therefore the main character should be Audrey? Yet Audrey's personality is completely undermined and buried behind the horror of all the people she knows. We've got liars, cheaters, back-stabbers and psycho's galore in this book: no bad personality trait is left unsubscribed.
Although there are multiple different crazy scenario's the whole story unfolds in a 2-3 month period were it almost feels as though it happens all in a few hours-a bit of a lack of a time-line.
The story has a great message, if you can look past it's faults.
March 30, 2015
A Good Read! The story details the complicated relationships between four friends in high school. The drama and group dynamics came across as realistic. Friendships are tested but the girls care about each other.
The story jumps around a tad bit so the focus was not totally on the main characters. However, once I got the hang of it, I liked the conversations between the characters. It was obvious that Ms. Thomas knew the everyday teenage lingo.
Strangely, I liked the totally eccentric English teacher. Perhaps, because he was being himself and he enjoyed the “present.”
Overall, the story was good read. I look forward to more books from this author. Good job, Valerie Thomas!
The story jumps around a tad bit so the focus was not totally on the main characters. However, once I got the hang of it, I liked the conversations between the characters. It was obvious that Ms. Thomas knew the everyday teenage lingo.
Strangely, I liked the totally eccentric English teacher. Perhaps, because he was being himself and he enjoyed the “present.”
Overall, the story was good read. I look forward to more books from this author. Good job, Valerie Thomas!
November 3, 2014
I want to say thank you to the author and Netgalley for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review. This book was an okay book I guess. I didn't really like it. The plot is something that is overused a lot in different book. To me it felt like she explained everything the characters did. I didn't really like that. It got boring after awhile in the book. I wouldn't know how to say who would like this book. Everything was short and choppy. The characters got really annoying. Some of them were easy to relate to some extent.
November 19, 2014
DNF: 20 %
I really like the idea of The Clique. But I think that was all it ever really was. A good idea. The execution of it, however... Shouldn't have been. It simply should have stayed an idea.
I was hoping for a story alá Fearscape by Nenia Campbell, but this was nowhere near her league!
Sorry, but this book wasn't for me.
An ARC was provided via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review
I really like the idea of The Clique. But I think that was all it ever really was. A good idea. The execution of it, however... Shouldn't have been. It simply should have stayed an idea.
I was hoping for a story alá Fearscape by Nenia Campbell, but this was nowhere near her league!
Sorry, but this book wasn't for me.
An ARC was provided via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review
December 6, 2014
Non Spoiler
I got this book for an honest review from the author and my opinions are not altered by this. This book was very different from the synopsis. It was a pretty good read but it’s definitely not an award winning book. The character development wasn’t very good but the events in this book definitely some juicy events. If you like contemporary books with drama and romance in it, then go read this book!
To view full review: http://yayaandmoreya.wordpress.com/20...
I got this book for an honest review from the author and my opinions are not altered by this. This book was very different from the synopsis. It was a pretty good read but it’s definitely not an award winning book. The character development wasn’t very good but the events in this book definitely some juicy events. If you like contemporary books with drama and romance in it, then go read this book!
To view full review: http://yayaandmoreya.wordpress.com/20...
November 30, 2014
Advance Readers Copy (ARC) provided for my blog by the lovely author for an honest review
Title: The Clique
Author: Valerie Thomas
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 221
Release Date: October 31st, 2014
I don't know where to begin. I just did not like this story. I felt so unrelated to the characters. i also felt the characters were a bit immature for teenagers. also i couldnt tell who was narrating the book. i just felt that it was all over the place. it could use some work
Title: The Clique
Author: Valerie Thomas
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 221
Release Date: October 31st, 2014
I don't know where to begin. I just did not like this story. I felt so unrelated to the characters. i also felt the characters were a bit immature for teenagers. also i couldnt tell who was narrating the book. i just felt that it was all over the place. it could use some work
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