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Misfits #1
The Weight of Destiny
When “crazy” runs in your family and your namesake is known for walking into a river with a pocket full of rocks, a girl kind of wants to avoid tempting fate at all costs. For Virginia Nichols, the only way to dodge that bullet is to be perfect at everything: school, student council, life. Too bad it’s all a lie, and underneath the perfection...Virginia is lost.
Ryder Blackstock knows a thing or two about being born into fate. The talents passed down from his father aren't exactly normal; instead of learning how to throw a fastball, he was taught to hot-wire a car like a pro and pick any pocket in sight. He’s got criminal blood, just like his old man. And as soon as he turns eighteen, he’ll be living life on the run with his dad.
When Ryder and Virginia meet on the beach, it seems they couldn't be more different. Soon they discover they’re both trapped in their lives—Virginia denying her fate, Ryder embracing his. Like the rocks in Virginia Woolf’s pockets, the weight of their destinies will pull them under. But being together brings out pieces of themselves they didn't know existed—pieces that make them want to take fate into their own hands and rewrite their destinies...if it’s not too late.
Ryder Blackstock knows a thing or two about being born into fate. The talents passed down from his father aren't exactly normal; instead of learning how to throw a fastball, he was taught to hot-wire a car like a pro and pick any pocket in sight. He’s got criminal blood, just like his old man. And as soon as he turns eighteen, he’ll be living life on the run with his dad.
When Ryder and Virginia meet on the beach, it seems they couldn't be more different. Soon they discover they’re both trapped in their lives—Virginia denying her fate, Ryder embracing his. Like the rocks in Virginia Woolf’s pockets, the weight of their destinies will pull them under. But being together brings out pieces of themselves they didn't know existed—pieces that make them want to take fate into their own hands and rewrite their destinies...if it’s not too late.
277 pages, ebook
First published November 8, 2014
7 people are currently reading
942 people want to read
About the author
Nyrae Dawn
33 books3,910 followersI am a compulsive reader and writer who loves YA fiction.
I love nothing more than writing about young adults. There is something so fresh and fun about it. You can pretty much always find me with a book in my hand or open document in front of me.
I live in Southern California with my husband and two children.
I love nothing more than writing about young adults. There is something so fresh and fun about it. You can pretty much always find me with a book in my hand or open document in front of me.
I live in Southern California with my husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 20, 2014
4-4.5 stars!!
What a beautifully written YA romance. About a month ago I saw the blurb for this one and preordered it immediately because, well, I’m a sucker for bad boys. The real bad ones. And the hero in this one (even though he’s a teen) is pretty bad: he’s a criminal. The premise is one that’s overused but never fails to grab me. I love it when you have two characters from different social standings and they fall in love and tackle obstacles standing in their way. While this story was on the sweet and predictable side, nevertheless, the writing was beautiful and compelling enough to hold my attention throughout the entire book and the romance was dreamy to make any romantic sigh and aww over.
On the surface, Virginia Nichols is perfect and has the perfect life: she’s a straight A-student destined for greatness and comes from a wealthy background. Except she has a mother with DID (dissociative identity disorder) and when the other ‘personalities’ surface, Virginia is always the one there taking the brunt of her mother’s actions. On a day where things go too far, she becomes a daredevil and drives far away from her house to the beach to de-stress and contemplate her life, which is where she meets the hero Ryder.
Groomed into the role of an expert thief, Ryder Blackstock has never known love or kindness aside from his close group of friends. His dad’s a wanted criminal who loved that he could pickpocket or hotwire a car, not necessarily him, and his older brother left him behind and thinks little of him. When others see him, they don’t see a regular teenage boy just trying to fit in. They see a bad boy, a criminal, and automatically think the worse of him without really getting to know him. On the night he meets Virginia, he’s intrigued by her because she’s different in personality, life goals, and family background and though he knows a relationship between them isn’t the wisest idea, there is just a special something they see in each other they just can’t forget about and they both seek each other out. A tentative friendship blooms. Then a pure, tender romance develops.
I was surprised (but ecstatic) at how fast I fell for both of these characters. Virginia is a girl I can 100% relate to because when I was her age, I could be her replica. She’s a bit uptight and a total control freak but at the same time, when she lets loose, she’s wild and free. As for Ryder, well he’s a jerk, through and through. I would’ve liked to see more of his criminal side as that was the main reason I decided to pick this book up, but soon his soft and sweet side won me over. When bad boys have that heart of gold and are possessive and protective of their girl, it gives my heart a squeeze or two, and Ryder is the epitome of this kind of guy. But more importantly, I loved these characters because of how much they loved each other. They accept each other’s quirks and oddities and want to be together regardless of outside opinion.
As much as this story warmed my heart and gave me the case of the sniffles, there was one main thing that bothered me. I am a very logical reader despite loving being emotionally overwhelmed by stories and there was a character aspect that didn’t quite add up: Virginia’s mom’s DID. I feel like Virginia not knowing and not even bothering to look up DID in more depth until the very end when she needed to was weird, uncaring, and dismissive. For a girl who excels in her academics and always knows what’s going on and what to do, being ignorant of the basic aspects of DID (especially since her mother has the disorder) really bothered me.
Aside from that one aspect, the rest of the book was a winner for me. It’s a sweet, heartwarming book with two very relatable, likable characters and features strong, supporting side characters who I can’t wait to read more about.
The Weight of Destiny is the first book and a standalone in the Misfits series. It’s a YA romance so very low steam level but that was fine with me since any intimacy in the story had an emotional impact.
What a beautifully written YA romance. About a month ago I saw the blurb for this one and preordered it immediately because, well, I’m a sucker for bad boys. The real bad ones. And the hero in this one (even though he’s a teen) is pretty bad: he’s a criminal. The premise is one that’s overused but never fails to grab me. I love it when you have two characters from different social standings and they fall in love and tackle obstacles standing in their way. While this story was on the sweet and predictable side, nevertheless, the writing was beautiful and compelling enough to hold my attention throughout the entire book and the romance was dreamy to make any romantic sigh and aww over.
On the surface, Virginia Nichols is perfect and has the perfect life: she’s a straight A-student destined for greatness and comes from a wealthy background. Except she has a mother with DID (dissociative identity disorder) and when the other ‘personalities’ surface, Virginia is always the one there taking the brunt of her mother’s actions. On a day where things go too far, she becomes a daredevil and drives far away from her house to the beach to de-stress and contemplate her life, which is where she meets the hero Ryder.
Groomed into the role of an expert thief, Ryder Blackstock has never known love or kindness aside from his close group of friends. His dad’s a wanted criminal who loved that he could pickpocket or hotwire a car, not necessarily him, and his older brother left him behind and thinks little of him. When others see him, they don’t see a regular teenage boy just trying to fit in. They see a bad boy, a criminal, and automatically think the worse of him without really getting to know him. On the night he meets Virginia, he’s intrigued by her because she’s different in personality, life goals, and family background and though he knows a relationship between them isn’t the wisest idea, there is just a special something they see in each other they just can’t forget about and they both seek each other out. A tentative friendship blooms. Then a pure, tender romance develops.
I was surprised (but ecstatic) at how fast I fell for both of these characters. Virginia is a girl I can 100% relate to because when I was her age, I could be her replica. She’s a bit uptight and a total control freak but at the same time, when she lets loose, she’s wild and free. As for Ryder, well he’s a jerk, through and through. I would’ve liked to see more of his criminal side as that was the main reason I decided to pick this book up, but soon his soft and sweet side won me over. When bad boys have that heart of gold and are possessive and protective of their girl, it gives my heart a squeeze or two, and Ryder is the epitome of this kind of guy. But more importantly, I loved these characters because of how much they loved each other. They accept each other’s quirks and oddities and want to be together regardless of outside opinion.
As much as this story warmed my heart and gave me the case of the sniffles, there was one main thing that bothered me. I am a very logical reader despite loving being emotionally overwhelmed by stories and there was a character aspect that didn’t quite add up: Virginia’s mom’s DID. I feel like Virginia not knowing and not even bothering to look up DID in more depth until the very end when she needed to was weird, uncaring, and dismissive. For a girl who excels in her academics and always knows what’s going on and what to do, being ignorant of the basic aspects of DID (especially since her mother has the disorder) really bothered me.
Aside from that one aspect, the rest of the book was a winner for me. It’s a sweet, heartwarming book with two very relatable, likable characters and features strong, supporting side characters who I can’t wait to read more about.
The Weight of Destiny is the first book and a standalone in the Misfits series. It’s a YA romance so very low steam level but that was fine with me since any intimacy in the story had an emotional impact.
November 23, 2014
4 ~ 4.5 Stars
”Because the weight isn’t as heavy when I’m with you.”
I really enjoyed this story for me it had all the elements I look for in a young adult story. The characters are likable while struggling with their own problems and the best part always is how they find refuge in another. All of Ryder and Virginia’s scenes weren’t cheesy but cleverly written and so sweet.
”We came here to do homework, remember?”
“No, you came here to do homework. I came because you’re beautiful.”
Both characters try to navigate their present as seniors in their high schools and their problems in their home lives. They find acceptance and love in one another that was believable and just wonderful.
This book totally hit the spot but please note there isn’t any smut but I didn’t miss it. I loved all the characters and am excited that this is a series but this book was a complete story and the next book should center around another couple.
”Because the weight isn’t as heavy when I’m with you.”
I really enjoyed this story for me it had all the elements I look for in a young adult story. The characters are likable while struggling with their own problems and the best part always is how they find refuge in another. All of Ryder and Virginia’s scenes weren’t cheesy but cleverly written and so sweet.
”We came here to do homework, remember?”
“No, you came here to do homework. I came because you’re beautiful.”
Both characters try to navigate their present as seniors in their high schools and their problems in their home lives. They find acceptance and love in one another that was believable and just wonderful.
This book totally hit the spot but please note there isn’t any smut but I didn’t miss it. I loved all the characters and am excited that this is a series but this book was a complete story and the next book should center around another couple.
March 8, 2015
★★★★4-4.5 STARS★★★★
“The Weight of Destiny” is the perfect title for this book and it’s exactly about that, destiny and the weight of it. It’s also a story about life, family, friends, second chances, finding your own way and so much more. It’s a heartwarming story that really moved me. Beautifully written This story is about two people who come from two different words, who seem different, but who are more alike that they can imagine.
At first sight, Virginia Nichols (17) is perfect. Perfect at everything – school, student council, life. Her family is wealthy and seems perfect in other’s eyes. But nothing is what it seems. Her parents are separated, her mother has DUI (Dissociative Identity Disorder) and their relationship is fragile to say the least.
Since mental illness plays a big role in Virginia’s family her biggest fear is not to become like her mother. She doesn’t know who she really is, she’s struggling to accept her mother’s condition and she believes her destiny is set in stone.
One night Virginia meets Ryder (17). Ryder is a boy from the other side of the tracks. Growing up with an absent mother and a criminal father, Ryder is convinced that he’s destined to be a thief like his old man. He’s a bad boy, knowing how to pickpocket and steal a car. While his father wanted his youngest son to be like him, Ryder wanted all his life to be cared and loved. He doesn’t believe he can be more than a criminal. No one believes in him and no one sees in him more than a criminal.
In some way Virginia and Ryder are drown to each other from the moment they meet even if they know they are from different worlds. At first Ryder thinks she’s just a rich girl, but as he gets to talk to her he realizes that Virginia’s different from every girl he met.
Ryder is a distraction Virginia doesn’t need, but as they get to know each other and eventually become friends, she realizes he’s a distraction she really wants.
They never expected to become more than friends, they never expected to understand each other and they never expected to become what the other needs.
Even if the premise of the story is nothing new, I really enjoyed it. The two main characters felt so real and relatable to me. I really liked both Ryder and Virginia and I loved them together. Both of them are very well developed and I really felt for them. Virginia was a likeable character from the start. She’s smart and sweet and her need to control everything in her life felt realistic. She’s a relatable character for so many reasons. Every one of us wants to be free and every one of us wants to find their own way. Every one of has flaws and every one of us struggles with something. The way she is with Ryder made me liked her even more. She doesn’t judge him like everyone else in his life, he accepts him for what he is, she likes and wants to be with the real Ryder. She’s sweet and caring with him. She listens to him and she’s there for him when he needs someone. And most important of all, she doesn’t push him to make a decision about his future, about his destiny. She lets him decide what he really wants for him, she lets him make his own destiny.
Ryder is a bad boy, yes, but he has such a big heart. There were so many times when I just wanted to hug him. My heart broke for him. Like Virginia he believes his destiny is written. He’s like nothing he believes he is. He’s sweet, caring and protective with Virginia and he’s great with his group of friends.
Virginia and Ryder are perfect for each other. The fact they are from different worlds doesn’t matter for them. They bring the best in each other, they give each other strength, they complete each other and most of all they accept each other.
The steam is low so if you’re expecting a steamy/sexy novel, this is not the book for you. I was invested in the story and these characters from the beginning so I didn’t care about that for one moment. The side characters were so likeable and I can’t wait to read more about them in the other books in the series.
All in all, “The Weight of Destiny” was a wonderful YA novel, with great, relatable characters, interesting storyline and flawless writing. If you’re a fan of this genre I really recommend this one!
“The Weight of Destiny” is the perfect title for this book and it’s exactly about that, destiny and the weight of it. It’s also a story about life, family, friends, second chances, finding your own way and so much more. It’s a heartwarming story that really moved me. Beautifully written This story is about two people who come from two different words, who seem different, but who are more alike that they can imagine.
“Do you ever feel like you’re destined for something no matter how hard you try not to be?”
At first sight, Virginia Nichols (17) is perfect. Perfect at everything – school, student council, life. Her family is wealthy and seems perfect in other’s eyes. But nothing is what it seems. Her parents are separated, her mother has DUI (Dissociative Identity Disorder) and their relationship is fragile to say the least.
Since mental illness plays a big role in Virginia’s family her biggest fear is not to become like her mother. She doesn’t know who she really is, she’s struggling to accept her mother’s condition and she believes her destiny is set in stone.
“It’s one of my biggest fears—for the people I care about to look at me and wonder if I’m crazy.”
One night Virginia meets Ryder (17). Ryder is a boy from the other side of the tracks. Growing up with an absent mother and a criminal father, Ryder is convinced that he’s destined to be a thief like his old man. He’s a bad boy, knowing how to pickpocket and steal a car. While his father wanted his youngest son to be like him, Ryder wanted all his life to be cared and loved. He doesn’t believe he can be more than a criminal. No one believes in him and no one sees in him more than a criminal.
In some way Virginia and Ryder are drown to each other from the moment they meet even if they know they are from different worlds. At first Ryder thinks she’s just a rich girl, but as he gets to talk to her he realizes that Virginia’s different from every girl he met.
“I wasn’t lying when I said she’s beautiful. She is. And the more I’m around her, the more I start to want her.”
Ryder is a distraction Virginia doesn’t need, but as they get to know each other and eventually become friends, she realizes he’s a distraction she really wants.
They never expected to become more than friends, they never expected to understand each other and they never expected to become what the other needs.
Even if the premise of the story is nothing new, I really enjoyed it. The two main characters felt so real and relatable to me. I really liked both Ryder and Virginia and I loved them together. Both of them are very well developed and I really felt for them. Virginia was a likeable character from the start. She’s smart and sweet and her need to control everything in her life felt realistic. She’s a relatable character for so many reasons. Every one of us wants to be free and every one of us wants to find their own way. Every one of has flaws and every one of us struggles with something. The way she is with Ryder made me liked her even more. She doesn’t judge him like everyone else in his life, he accepts him for what he is, she likes and wants to be with the real Ryder. She’s sweet and caring with him. She listens to him and she’s there for him when he needs someone. And most important of all, she doesn’t push him to make a decision about his future, about his destiny. She lets him decide what he really wants for him, she lets him make his own destiny.
Ryder is a bad boy, yes, but he has such a big heart. There were so many times when I just wanted to hug him. My heart broke for him. Like Virginia he believes his destiny is written. He’s like nothing he believes he is. He’s sweet, caring and protective with Virginia and he’s great with his group of friends.
Virginia and Ryder are perfect for each other. The fact they are from different worlds doesn’t matter for them. They bring the best in each other, they give each other strength, they complete each other and most of all they accept each other.
The steam is low so if you’re expecting a steamy/sexy novel, this is not the book for you. I was invested in the story and these characters from the beginning so I didn’t care about that for one moment. The side characters were so likeable and I can’t wait to read more about them in the other books in the series.
All in all, “The Weight of Destiny” was a wonderful YA novel, with great, relatable characters, interesting storyline and flawless writing. If you’re a fan of this genre I really recommend this one!
“Write a story with me, Virginia.”
Finally, I breathe. “What?”
“I don’t know shit about writing, but write a story with me. Our story. Your story. Mine. Whatever. Let’s not be afraid to write our own. To decide who we want to be, who we already are.”
November 21, 2014
★★★ 3.5 Stars ★★★
Virginia Nichols is a good girl. She has a plan and she likes to work hard at everything. A senior in high school, she appears perfect but what she is hiding is causing her sadness and pent up anger.
Ryder Blackstock comes from a shady background, groomed from a young age to become a thief and a criminal his destiny has been set from birth. He feels he has only ever been loved for what he could do best - steal.
This is well worn storyline but one that I enjoy a lot, and I found in this case it really worked. The interactions between the two teenagers were really sweet. This is a YA book so no steam, but plenty of emotional scenes to make you smile.
This is the first in the 'Misfits' series, the following books will feature Ryder's friends.
Virginia Nichols is a good girl. She has a plan and she likes to work hard at everything. A senior in high school, she appears perfect but what she is hiding is causing her sadness and pent up anger.
Ryder Blackstock comes from a shady background, groomed from a young age to become a thief and a criminal his destiny has been set from birth. He feels he has only ever been loved for what he could do best - steal.
This is well worn storyline but one that I enjoy a lot, and I found in this case it really worked. The interactions between the two teenagers were really sweet. This is a YA book so no steam, but plenty of emotional scenes to make you smile.
This is the first in the 'Misfits' series, the following books will feature Ryder's friends.
Read
October 9, 2014Love, love, love the poetic thread woven through this one, and the complexities of the family relationships. And as always with Nyrae, the romance will grab your heart. <3
May 14, 2015
4 Stars
Me and YAs don't usually gel well but I've read books by Nyrae Dawn before and I've loved them so after reading the Blurb I thought what the hell lets give it a go.
From the outside looking in Virginia 'Lulu' Nichols is the perfect Daughter, all straight As and strict rules but on the inside she's a mess. Fighting a war against herself with the fear of following in the footsteps of those who came before her. Mental illness plays a big part in her family life and she's terrified to live a little, to act a little crazy or just be a normal teenager.
Ryder Blackstock is the boy from the other side of the tracks growing up in a house of complete disfunction. With an absent mother and criminal father who's groomed him to become his sidekick. Ryder can't help but believe he's destined to follow in his dad's footsteps, that is until he meets her.......
A chance meeting brings Virginia and Ryder together and the connection they have is almost instant, they find themselves needing to be in each other's company, and as much as these two don't fit together they bring out the best in each other. They help to sooth each other's fears, to realise it's ok to dream and with the right person by your side, life can take the direction you choose not the one you think your destine to live.
As I said YA isn't normally my go to, but something about this rained me in and from early on I was rooting for a HEA. I loved how cool and cocky Ryder was and loved how smart mouthed Virginia was. The side character were also great Ryder's friends are an amazing support system and I can't wait to here more about them.
"That’s life, I think. Sometimes people who love each other and are perfect for each other don’t work out. Sometimes the person who should be all wrong for you couldn’t be more right. Life never goes the direction you think it will. No one’s destiny is mapped out for them. Life is full of choices and happiness and heartbreak. And I wouldn’t have it any other way."
Me and YAs don't usually gel well but I've read books by Nyrae Dawn before and I've loved them so after reading the Blurb I thought what the hell lets give it a go.
From the outside looking in Virginia 'Lulu' Nichols is the perfect Daughter, all straight As and strict rules but on the inside she's a mess. Fighting a war against herself with the fear of following in the footsteps of those who came before her. Mental illness plays a big part in her family life and she's terrified to live a little, to act a little crazy or just be a normal teenager.
Ryder Blackstock is the boy from the other side of the tracks growing up in a house of complete disfunction. With an absent mother and criminal father who's groomed him to become his sidekick. Ryder can't help but believe he's destined to follow in his dad's footsteps, that is until he meets her.......
A chance meeting brings Virginia and Ryder together and the connection they have is almost instant, they find themselves needing to be in each other's company, and as much as these two don't fit together they bring out the best in each other. They help to sooth each other's fears, to realise it's ok to dream and with the right person by your side, life can take the direction you choose not the one you think your destine to live.
As I said YA isn't normally my go to, but something about this rained me in and from early on I was rooting for a HEA. I loved how cool and cocky Ryder was and loved how smart mouthed Virginia was. The side character were also great Ryder's friends are an amazing support system and I can't wait to here more about them.
"That’s life, I think. Sometimes people who love each other and are perfect for each other don’t work out. Sometimes the person who should be all wrong for you couldn’t be more right. Life never goes the direction you think it will. No one’s destiny is mapped out for them. Life is full of choices and happiness and heartbreak. And I wouldn’t have it any other way."
December 29, 2014
It was going for 4 solid stars but the ending felt rushed. I loved idea behind the story but I would have liked for it to have a bit more depth and development.
Full review, as usually, posted on my blog Ellie Reads Fiction
I loved her Games series and was intrigued by the blurb of this one but in the end I liked it but expected more. It was not as good as I hoped it would be. It's YA/NA realistic fiction/romance a and I liked the idea of exploring what it's like for a child of a parent with a personality disorder but I felt the story lacked depth and was rather casual.
I found Virginia/Lulu an interesting character - her struggles with her mother's illness and her fears for her own mental health all felt real and easy to understand. This lead to an unhealthy need for control which also seemed realistic. I felt deeply for her struggles between what's right and should be done and her desire to be free, to find who she is, to explore the world - just like any other teenager at the cusp of adulthood.
Her romance with Ryder was sweet and tender but it didn't strike me as outstanding in any way. It was an opposites-attract kind of story and bore the marks of first (teenage) love.
My main issue with the story was Ryder. He was a typical bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks, convinced that he is destined to be a thief just like his father. I found his certainty in his criminal fate confusing and unrealistic. He was dreaming of becoming a criminal because he thought that was the only thing he was good at. It felt forced and unconvincing. He had a caring older brother, a tight group of friends whom he could rely on, so I really didn't see him as doom or desperate.
It was his relationship with Virginia that helped him believe more in himself and ultimately act right and recognize the chance he had of being something more than a small-time criminal. Graduating high school and preparing for college and being adult can be scary and confusing, still I felt Ryder was acting rather childishly most of the story.
On the plus side, I did like a lot his friends and the way Ms Dawn explores the complex relations between them - love and hurt and betrayal and loyalty. I really enjoyed this aspect of the story.
This is the first book in a new YA/NA series by Nyrae Down and even though I didn't like it as much as I hoped, I'm curious about the rest of the books and very much willing to give them a try.
Full review, as usually, posted on my blog Ellie Reads Fiction
I loved her Games series and was intrigued by the blurb of this one but in the end I liked it but expected more. It was not as good as I hoped it would be. It's YA/NA realistic fiction/romance a and I liked the idea of exploring what it's like for a child of a parent with a personality disorder but I felt the story lacked depth and was rather casual.
I found Virginia/Lulu an interesting character - her struggles with her mother's illness and her fears for her own mental health all felt real and easy to understand. This lead to an unhealthy need for control which also seemed realistic. I felt deeply for her struggles between what's right and should be done and her desire to be free, to find who she is, to explore the world - just like any other teenager at the cusp of adulthood.
Her romance with Ryder was sweet and tender but it didn't strike me as outstanding in any way. It was an opposites-attract kind of story and bore the marks of first (teenage) love.
My main issue with the story was Ryder. He was a typical bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks, convinced that he is destined to be a thief just like his father. I found his certainty in his criminal fate confusing and unrealistic. He was dreaming of becoming a criminal because he thought that was the only thing he was good at. It felt forced and unconvincing. He had a caring older brother, a tight group of friends whom he could rely on, so I really didn't see him as doom or desperate.
It was his relationship with Virginia that helped him believe more in himself and ultimately act right and recognize the chance he had of being something more than a small-time criminal. Graduating high school and preparing for college and being adult can be scary and confusing, still I felt Ryder was acting rather childishly most of the story.
On the plus side, I did like a lot his friends and the way Ms Dawn explores the complex relations between them - love and hurt and betrayal and loyalty. I really enjoyed this aspect of the story.
This is the first book in a new YA/NA series by Nyrae Down and even though I didn't like it as much as I hoped, I'm curious about the rest of the books and very much willing to give them a try.
November 18, 2014
My Thoughts:
Ms. Dawn write's the most beautifully broken characters, and makes them relatable regardless of gender, sex, ethnicity, and social status. When it gets down to it, we are all people who may all have different life experiences, yet we all know what fear, sadness, anger, and other various afflictive emotions feel like.
In The Weight of Destiny, we have two characters that appear very different on the outside, yet are undergoing the same emotional turmoil beneath the surface. Virginia comes from a wealthy family, attends a private school, and is a popular straight A student who is attending Stanford in the fall. Yet, she closely carries a family secret that makes her live in constant turmoil, with the fear of eventually battling the same mental illness that plagues her mother. Ryder (Ry) lives in a poor neighborhood, doesn't apply himself in school, and is being raised by his older brother Luke. His mother took off when he was young, and his father has been on the run from the law for many years. Ry knows that his father will one day come back for him, and they'll live on the run together as professional thieves.
One night, Virginia and Ryder meet. These two very different teens end up forging a deep connection with one another. They learn that they are a lot more alike than either of them noticed at first glance. Will they crumble under the weight of their destiny, or write their own?
I loved, They Weight of Destiny, by Nyrae Dawn. The connection between Virginia and Ryder felt authentic. The friendship that they built created a deep and well-developed romance. There were many great secondary characters as well, and I am looking forward to them getting their own stories. I adored, Ryder's older brother, Luke. I need him to get his own story. Luke was an amazing brother. He put Ryder ahead of himself, worked crazy hours, and wanted Ry to make good decisions. I also loved getting to know Ryder's best friend Shane, and his other good friend's Tanner, Cody, and Drea.
My Rating:
The Weight of Destiny was a beautifully crafted character driven story. I loved reading Virginia's inner dialogue. She was very in touch with her emotions, and her fears were conveyed in such a way that I could empathize with her plight. I liked the philosophical question that was posed in this story, "Are we fated to become who our parents are, or Can we write our own destiny?" I love stories that make me contemplate my own life experiences. Ms. Dawn made me reflect on my thought processes when I was an older teen, and I remembered how exciting and intimidating that time in our life is. I give, The Weight of Destiny, 4 Rich Characters, Contemplative, Empowering, and Emotionally Riveting Stars!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
Ms. Dawn write's the most beautifully broken characters, and makes them relatable regardless of gender, sex, ethnicity, and social status. When it gets down to it, we are all people who may all have different life experiences, yet we all know what fear, sadness, anger, and other various afflictive emotions feel like.
In The Weight of Destiny, we have two characters that appear very different on the outside, yet are undergoing the same emotional turmoil beneath the surface. Virginia comes from a wealthy family, attends a private school, and is a popular straight A student who is attending Stanford in the fall. Yet, she closely carries a family secret that makes her live in constant turmoil, with the fear of eventually battling the same mental illness that plagues her mother. Ryder (Ry) lives in a poor neighborhood, doesn't apply himself in school, and is being raised by his older brother Luke. His mother took off when he was young, and his father has been on the run from the law for many years. Ry knows that his father will one day come back for him, and they'll live on the run together as professional thieves.
One night, Virginia and Ryder meet. These two very different teens end up forging a deep connection with one another. They learn that they are a lot more alike than either of them noticed at first glance. Will they crumble under the weight of their destiny, or write their own?
I loved, They Weight of Destiny, by Nyrae Dawn. The connection between Virginia and Ryder felt authentic. The friendship that they built created a deep and well-developed romance. There were many great secondary characters as well, and I am looking forward to them getting their own stories. I adored, Ryder's older brother, Luke. I need him to get his own story. Luke was an amazing brother. He put Ryder ahead of himself, worked crazy hours, and wanted Ry to make good decisions. I also loved getting to know Ryder's best friend Shane, and his other good friend's Tanner, Cody, and Drea.
My Rating:
The Weight of Destiny was a beautifully crafted character driven story. I loved reading Virginia's inner dialogue. She was very in touch with her emotions, and her fears were conveyed in such a way that I could empathize with her plight. I liked the philosophical question that was posed in this story, "Are we fated to become who our parents are, or Can we write our own destiny?" I love stories that make me contemplate my own life experiences. Ms. Dawn made me reflect on my thought processes when I was an older teen, and I remembered how exciting and intimidating that time in our life is. I give, The Weight of Destiny, 4 Rich Characters, Contemplative, Empowering, and Emotionally Riveting Stars!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
February 3, 2015
This is a very sweet bad boy/ good girl story. Lots going for it: Solid writing; interesting characters; slowly built and believable relationship.
Pretty typical of the genre though. Wasn't wowed and I did find it quite predictable.
Pretty typical of the genre though. Wasn't wowed and I did find it quite predictable.
December 19, 2015
Rating: 3.25/5
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
November 20, 2014
Nyrae Dawn, you never fail me! I've loved every book I've read by this author and she's on my auto-read list. I haven't been keeping up my GR release shelves these last few months and I actually just heard about this book like 2 or 3 weeks ago, but I immediately added it to my TBR. It's been a while since I've read a YA book by Nyrae, but this is what made me fall in love with her books in the first place and I was excited for this one. It took no time at all to get sucked back into Nyrae's beautiful writing and those flawed characters that she is so good at making me fall for.
Both Ryder and Virginia lead very different lives but have one thing in common. They both feel like their destiny is out of their control. Ryder's dad is a thief and he's trained Ryder and used to take him along on 'jobs' with him. Now that his dad is on the run and Ryder is stuck living with his older brother, Ryder feels like he's just passing the time until he turns 18 and his dad comes back for him so they can live a father-son life of crime. Ryder and his brother are very different. His brother resents their dad for abandoning them and Ryder respects his dad for getting what he wants and sees no other path in life but to follow in his footsteps. Virginia, named after a famous author who committed suicide, and the daughter and granddaughter of authors, also feels like her life has already been chosen for her. But Virginia is determined to not end up like her mother or her namesake. Her mother suffers from Multiple Personality Disorder, which has greatly affected Virginia's life. Determined not to end up in her mother's footsteps, she completely shuts off the creative side of her, the part of her that is just itching to write. In order to shut the 'voices' in her head, Virginia exercises a life or order and control. To her, doing things like homework and participating in groups like Student Council and FBLoA are all part of her plan. Ryder? Definitely not part of her plan.
I loved these two so much! Although they are both very different and lead very different lives, the more time they spend together, they find out that they are more alike than they realized. I really liked how slow their relationship was. They met by accident and slowly became friends before becoming something more. I loved how Ryder loved spending time with Virginia, even if it was just doing homework (with some stolen kisses). I loved how they both helped each other find out what they want out of life. As always, Nyrae writes these realistic and relatable characters that you can't help but fall for. They are flawed but you are always rooting for them. I loved Ryder's brother Luke and his group of friends. Although Goodreads doesn't have it listed yet, this is the first book of the series and I am crossing my fingers and toes that the next book is about Shane and Drea. Another fantastic book by Nyraew Dawn!
***
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Both Ryder and Virginia lead very different lives but have one thing in common. They both feel like their destiny is out of their control. Ryder's dad is a thief and he's trained Ryder and used to take him along on 'jobs' with him. Now that his dad is on the run and Ryder is stuck living with his older brother, Ryder feels like he's just passing the time until he turns 18 and his dad comes back for him so they can live a father-son life of crime. Ryder and his brother are very different. His brother resents their dad for abandoning them and Ryder respects his dad for getting what he wants and sees no other path in life but to follow in his footsteps. Virginia, named after a famous author who committed suicide, and the daughter and granddaughter of authors, also feels like her life has already been chosen for her. But Virginia is determined to not end up like her mother or her namesake. Her mother suffers from Multiple Personality Disorder, which has greatly affected Virginia's life. Determined not to end up in her mother's footsteps, she completely shuts off the creative side of her, the part of her that is just itching to write. In order to shut the 'voices' in her head, Virginia exercises a life or order and control. To her, doing things like homework and participating in groups like Student Council and FBLoA are all part of her plan. Ryder? Definitely not part of her plan.
I loved these two so much! Although they are both very different and lead very different lives, the more time they spend together, they find out that they are more alike than they realized. I really liked how slow their relationship was. They met by accident and slowly became friends before becoming something more. I loved how Ryder loved spending time with Virginia, even if it was just doing homework (with some stolen kisses). I loved how they both helped each other find out what they want out of life. As always, Nyrae writes these realistic and relatable characters that you can't help but fall for. They are flawed but you are always rooting for them. I loved Ryder's brother Luke and his group of friends. Although Goodreads doesn't have it listed yet, this is the first book of the series and I am crossing my fingers and toes that the next book is about Shane and Drea. Another fantastic book by Nyraew Dawn!
***
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April 29, 2015
So that moment when one of your favourite authors asks you to beta read a book that you've been just DYING over from every teaser she's shared? Yup, that moment was SQUEE-tastic. But you know what moment tops that? When you read the book, get to the end, and realize that all your epic expectations were just blown away by the awesome reality of the story. And that, my friends, is The Weight of Destiny.
I've been sitting on this review for a few weeks now, just wondering what I can say. I loved the whole idea of Ryder and Virginia's story since Ms. Dawn first breathed words of it on Facebook. What I don't think I fully comprehended was just how much there was going to be to each of their stories individually. Which is kind of silly, b/c that is Ms. Dawn's bread and butter. That's what made me fall in love with her stories right from What a Boy Wants (my Nyrae Dawn virginity taker). Her characters are so complex, and well developed, and unique, and beautiful, and refreshing. And somewhat damaged, but not broken - you know?
Quite honestly, in some ways Ryder and Virginia could NOT be any more different. They come from 2 very different worlds. But the thing that drew them to each other was their shared burden of expectations....not necessarily from anyone else, but expectations that they put upon themselves. And watching them grasp onto this one commonality and bridge a relationship from it was just PERFECTION. It just felt so real. They fumbled. They faltered. But they didn't let go.
And that's about as eloquent as I'm going to get. I LOVED this story. I loved the main characters. I LOVED the secondary characters (and pretty much squee'd when I learned that this was going to be a new series, and the rest of Ryder's friends would have their stories told). I loved that the growth that both characters showed through the story was realistic, and not all at once, and not without setbacks. Especially wrt their families -- Ryder and his brother, and Virginia with her parents.
And the romance.... I love NA's, don't get me wrong. But I found Nyrae Dawn through her YA's, and it was so nice to go back there.... I had goose pimples, and tummy butterflies, and mega grins.
So basically, if you're already a fan of Ms. Dawn's, then you're in for the usual treat and more. If you haven't read her before, then start with this one. You won't be disappointed.
I've been sitting on this review for a few weeks now, just wondering what I can say. I loved the whole idea of Ryder and Virginia's story since Ms. Dawn first breathed words of it on Facebook. What I don't think I fully comprehended was just how much there was going to be to each of their stories individually. Which is kind of silly, b/c that is Ms. Dawn's bread and butter. That's what made me fall in love with her stories right from What a Boy Wants (my Nyrae Dawn virginity taker). Her characters are so complex, and well developed, and unique, and beautiful, and refreshing. And somewhat damaged, but not broken - you know?
Quite honestly, in some ways Ryder and Virginia could NOT be any more different. They come from 2 very different worlds. But the thing that drew them to each other was their shared burden of expectations....not necessarily from anyone else, but expectations that they put upon themselves. And watching them grasp onto this one commonality and bridge a relationship from it was just PERFECTION. It just felt so real. They fumbled. They faltered. But they didn't let go.
And that's about as eloquent as I'm going to get. I LOVED this story. I loved the main characters. I LOVED the secondary characters (and pretty much squee'd when I learned that this was going to be a new series, and the rest of Ryder's friends would have their stories told). I loved that the growth that both characters showed through the story was realistic, and not all at once, and not without setbacks. Especially wrt their families -- Ryder and his brother, and Virginia with her parents.
And the romance.... I love NA's, don't get me wrong. But I found Nyrae Dawn through her YA's, and it was so nice to go back there.... I had goose pimples, and tummy butterflies, and mega grins.
So basically, if you're already a fan of Ms. Dawn's, then you're in for the usual treat and more. If you haven't read her before, then start with this one. You won't be disappointed.
March 22, 2015
The Weight of Destiny es el primer libro de la nueva serie escrita por Nyrae Dawn, llamada Misfits y narra la hermosa historia de amor de Ryder y Virginia.
Desde que vi esta nueva historia de Nyrae la añadi a mi lista de lecturas, ya que desde que conoci a la autora sus libros son un must read para mi.
Todas sus historias son hermosas, dulces, profundas y muy faciles de leer, The Weight of Destiny no es diferente, me encanto como la historia habla de superacion y de crear tu propio destino, ademas a pesar de tener bastantes capitulos ( 51 creo ) en ningun momento la lectura se me hizo tediosa, todo lo contrario, me lo acabe sin casi darme cuenta.
Ojala pudiera encontrar las palabras adecuadas para decir lo mucho que me impresiono esta historia y lo mucho que me llego al corazon, pero no creo que existan las palabras suficientes para describir todo lo que senti con este libro mientras lo leia.
Estoy muy curiosa sobre quienes seran los protagonistas del siguiente libro, de lo que estoy segura es que me encantara, como todo lo que escribe Nyrae Dawn.
4 Estrellas!!
November 25, 2014
4.5 ★s
I loved this book. It was exactly how a young adult book should be. It was sweet, simple, the characters were likable and relatable, and it was written well. The story, itself, was really simple yet I couldn't put it down. I read it in one sitting. It hit the book spot, left me smiling and I'll definitely continue on with the series.
March 21, 2015
NYRAE NUNCA DECEPCIONA.
En realidad, se merece las cinco estrellas. Pero como sólo los Indicados (con i mayúscula(?)) consiguen las cinco estrellas, no la tendrá (?)
Fue tan hermoso. Ryder y hasta Virginia fueron geniales y la evolución que tuvieron en el libro fue genial. Además de que su historia fue hermosa y y y... no sé qué más decir. Sólo que vale la pena leerlo <3
En realidad, se merece las cinco estrellas. Pero como sólo los Indicados (con i mayúscula(?)) consiguen las cinco estrellas, no la tendrá (?)
Fue tan hermoso. Ryder y hasta Virginia fueron geniales y la evolución que tuvieron en el libro fue genial. Además de que su historia fue hermosa y y y... no sé qué más decir. Sólo que vale la pena leerlo <3
November 16, 2014
Nyrae has once again transferred the trials of life onto the page. THE WEIGHT OF DESTINY is filled with love, heartache, and passion, and is a MUST READ!
December 28, 2014
I LOVED this couple. LOVED.
This is everything Nyrae does best - great language, and two people finding each other when they need it most - even if they don't realize it at first ;-)
This is everything Nyrae does best - great language, and two people finding each other when they need it most - even if they don't realize it at first ;-)
November 18, 2014
4.5 Star Review by Allison East
I am a huge fan of Nyrae Dawn, she never disappoints with her stories- and this is no exception. She's done it again my friends. And I was so fortunate to be able to read an advanced reader's copy, in exchange for my honest review.
Both characters in this book- know a little about fate, destiny. Things that have happened in both of their lives set them on a path forever. But what if they don't want to follow that path, what if they meet each other and the weight of that path, doesn�t feel so heavy. It makes them whole to be together- no one can explain it- so don't even try. Maybe, they are each other's destiny now, and
that suits me just fine. This story was intricately woven and poetically beautiful- all in the same book. From the character development, to the plot to the themes scattered throughout the story, there was so much brilliance in this story.
In Virginia- "Lulu" Nichols family, she has a lot of crazy to deal with. From her grandmother dying not so nicely, her mother suffering her own version of crazy, and her namesake Virginia Woolf committing suicide- it�s all she can do some days to breathe. I really did love her character. Her strong outside, versus the weak inside. And her inner voice coming out- was one of my favorite parts.
The struggles she had were so real for someone her age.
"There once was a girl named Fear. Everything scared her, but she couldn�t let anyone know. Maybe if she fought hard enough, she could change her name to Strength. That's who she wanted to be. "
Then there was Ryder Blackstock, he has a lot of crazy to deal with. His father raised him to believe there has to be a balance of people in the world, the good and the evil- and because there was enough good, his father chose the evil. Breaking and entering, stealing- you name it, his father did it, and he taught Ryder to be the same way. He always felt unloved- his father left him, he was on the run from the police- and Ryder was left with his brother, and two strikes against him. And then one day, by chance he meets Virginia, and his destiny is forever changed.
"You're changing everything, and I can't figure out why I'm not more scared about that."
I press my lips to her forehead. 'Yeah, me either."
Growing up is HARD, and if your future is predetermined, or so it seems, it feels even HARDER. But even with the weight of this destiny they both feel- when they are together it doesn't make them feel so bad.
"Because the weight isn�t as heavy when I'm with you.
"The weight of what?" she asks.
"Of everything."
"But it's not my words that settle into my chest. Its hers. Virginia shakes her head and answers her own question. "Of destiny."
I really loved this book, and it really soared- for me, about fifty percent in. not saying the beginning
wasn�t equally as brilliant, but I started to really get IT around that point. To understand the author's words and story- that 's when it clicked. And then it was a only mere seconds, or so it felt like, and I was finished and I heaved a huge sigh- and said "Now that is how you write a YA novel!"
I am a huge fan of Nyrae Dawn, she never disappoints with her stories- and this is no exception. She's done it again my friends. And I was so fortunate to be able to read an advanced reader's copy, in exchange for my honest review.
Both characters in this book- know a little about fate, destiny. Things that have happened in both of their lives set them on a path forever. But what if they don't want to follow that path, what if they meet each other and the weight of that path, doesn�t feel so heavy. It makes them whole to be together- no one can explain it- so don't even try. Maybe, they are each other's destiny now, and
that suits me just fine. This story was intricately woven and poetically beautiful- all in the same book. From the character development, to the plot to the themes scattered throughout the story, there was so much brilliance in this story.
In Virginia- "Lulu" Nichols family, she has a lot of crazy to deal with. From her grandmother dying not so nicely, her mother suffering her own version of crazy, and her namesake Virginia Woolf committing suicide- it�s all she can do some days to breathe. I really did love her character. Her strong outside, versus the weak inside. And her inner voice coming out- was one of my favorite parts.
The struggles she had were so real for someone her age.
"There once was a girl named Fear. Everything scared her, but she couldn�t let anyone know. Maybe if she fought hard enough, she could change her name to Strength. That's who she wanted to be. "
Then there was Ryder Blackstock, he has a lot of crazy to deal with. His father raised him to believe there has to be a balance of people in the world, the good and the evil- and because there was enough good, his father chose the evil. Breaking and entering, stealing- you name it, his father did it, and he taught Ryder to be the same way. He always felt unloved- his father left him, he was on the run from the police- and Ryder was left with his brother, and two strikes against him. And then one day, by chance he meets Virginia, and his destiny is forever changed.
"You're changing everything, and I can't figure out why I'm not more scared about that."
I press my lips to her forehead. 'Yeah, me either."
Growing up is HARD, and if your future is predetermined, or so it seems, it feels even HARDER. But even with the weight of this destiny they both feel- when they are together it doesn't make them feel so bad.
"Because the weight isn�t as heavy when I'm with you.
"The weight of what?" she asks.
"Of everything."
"But it's not my words that settle into my chest. Its hers. Virginia shakes her head and answers her own question. "Of destiny."
I really loved this book, and it really soared- for me, about fifty percent in. not saying the beginning
wasn�t equally as brilliant, but I started to really get IT around that point. To understand the author's words and story- that 's when it clicked. And then it was a only mere seconds, or so it felt like, and I was finished and I heaved a huge sigh- and said "Now that is how you write a YA novel!"
December 2, 2014
This was cute. I like that the author took the chance and introduced a main character who's mom has multiple personalities. It's a gutsy thing to tackle and I think Nyrae Dawn tackled the issue with respect and love.
I also like Ryder's struggles - because I think it's a more common struggle. The struggle of not having money and having one or possibly both parents mostly out of the picture due to illegal activity.
Their story was sweet and cute and I like that it was an instant attraction but a longer courting. It has a lot of really great points and great plot points. I enjoyed it.
I also like Ryder's struggles - because I think it's a more common struggle. The struggle of not having money and having one or possibly both parents mostly out of the picture due to illegal activity.
Their story was sweet and cute and I like that it was an instant attraction but a longer courting. It has a lot of really great points and great plot points. I enjoyed it.
November 27, 2014
4.5 stars! I love Nyrae Dawn, and this book was no exception. Ryder and Virginia are young adults, both struggling to accept they're place in the world, and to make something better for themselves. Their story was beautiful and dynamic, filled with drama, but lacking melodrama.
My favorite thing about Nyrae Dawn's books is her ability to write real characters that are easy to empathize with.
I couldn't put this book down and read it in less than a day. I am looking forward to the next installments in this series!!!
My favorite thing about Nyrae Dawn's books is her ability to write real characters that are easy to empathize with.
I couldn't put this book down and read it in less than a day. I am looking forward to the next installments in this series!!!
December 22, 2014
4.5 stars
Longer review coming soon but…
This is Nyrae Dawn at her best, weaving a beautiful story of love. Yes, the romantic kind - but also, more importantly, love between friends and family, which is so under represented in YA.
Just a beautiful story about losing yourself in love but in doing so finding your true destiny.
Longer review coming soon but…
This is Nyrae Dawn at her best, weaving a beautiful story of love. Yes, the romantic kind - but also, more importantly, love between friends and family, which is so under represented in YA.
Just a beautiful story about losing yourself in love but in doing so finding your true destiny.
March 8, 2015
3.5 stars
December 5, 2014
I just didn't like these characters or the story.
August 21, 2022
No sé si es porque ya estoy un poco cansada de la misma clase de historia (chico con pasado, chica con pasado, mundos diferentes), pero me resultó muy raro ponerle tres estrellas a Nyrae.
Es un libro muy lindo, con una gran enseñanza, pero para mí le faltó algo que lo hiciera destacar.
Read
October 4, 2021DNF
November 22, 2014
It's been quite some time since I've read a Young Adult novel, but if anyone could entice me to pick up a genre I’ve shamefully neglected in favor of books featuring characters closer to my age, it would be Nyrae Dawn, whose protagonists possess a level of maturity beyond their years, no matter her chosen genre. The Weight of Destiny is the first book in the author’s Misfits series and, as such, is a detailed introduction to a group of friends that have bonded over their shared status as outcasts. Our male protagonist, Ryder, is a card-carrying member of the misfits and, although our female protagonist, Virginia, would fit in amongst the motley crew, her idiosyncrasies aren’t distinguishable to the outside world. In all other aspects of their lives, fate seems to be working against Ryder and Virginia, steering them toward what they believe to be a predetermined path, but it is fate that brings together this unlikely pair during a time when they need each other the most.
The plot of The Weight of Destiny seems fairly basic at first glance – privileged girl falls for boy from the wrong side of town – but Ryder and Virginia prove that there's always more to a person than there appears to be on the surface. For all intense and purposes, Virginia is perfect – a model student with a bright future ahead of her. Ryder, on the other hand, aimlessly floats through life, holding onto the belief that his lot in life has already been cast against his favor. As the narrative progresses, though, the backstories of Ryder and Virginia are gradually unveiled, peeling back layer after layer of their characters until all of their secrets are exposed. Both Virginia and Ryder are two different people at any given moment – one of which is the person they want everyone to think is real, and the other is the person they hide from everyone else except, perhaps, each other.
The Weight of Destiny is a love story but, most importantly, it's a coming-of-age story about two individuals attempting to create their own destiny rather than allow history to perpetuate itself in a new generation. The romance between Ryder and Virginia is an integral part of the story, yet it’s the intense connection that these two characters build that gives them each the strength to make sense of their muddled lives. These are two characters that will draw you in and make you want to delve deeper into their multifaceted personas, more of which are revealed with every sentence. The Weight of Destiny is an incredibly beautiful and superbly written story that helped remind me what I love about the Young Adult genre, including the magical and redeeming power of first love, the journey of self-discovery, and the limitless possibilities for the future of these characters.
*complimentary copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review
The plot of The Weight of Destiny seems fairly basic at first glance – privileged girl falls for boy from the wrong side of town – but Ryder and Virginia prove that there's always more to a person than there appears to be on the surface. For all intense and purposes, Virginia is perfect – a model student with a bright future ahead of her. Ryder, on the other hand, aimlessly floats through life, holding onto the belief that his lot in life has already been cast against his favor. As the narrative progresses, though, the backstories of Ryder and Virginia are gradually unveiled, peeling back layer after layer of their characters until all of their secrets are exposed. Both Virginia and Ryder are two different people at any given moment – one of which is the person they want everyone to think is real, and the other is the person they hide from everyone else except, perhaps, each other.
The Weight of Destiny is a love story but, most importantly, it's a coming-of-age story about two individuals attempting to create their own destiny rather than allow history to perpetuate itself in a new generation. The romance between Ryder and Virginia is an integral part of the story, yet it’s the intense connection that these two characters build that gives them each the strength to make sense of their muddled lives. These are two characters that will draw you in and make you want to delve deeper into their multifaceted personas, more of which are revealed with every sentence. The Weight of Destiny is an incredibly beautiful and superbly written story that helped remind me what I love about the Young Adult genre, including the magical and redeeming power of first love, the journey of self-discovery, and the limitless possibilities for the future of these characters.
*complimentary copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review
November 22, 2014
The thing about Nyrae Dawn is that she can get me to read and actually enjoy books using tropes that are usually big misses for me. In this book we have the "bad" boy with the "good" girl. There are only a few books where this has worked for me and is far more often a huge miss. The reason this works in this book is because the characters are explored in the depth needed to move beyond the stereotypes.
In this book the characters are developed beyond their "good" girl "bad" boy designations so that you see who they truly are inside. That is why this book works. You are able to understand why Reid is on the path he is and doesn't see any other options beyond what he thinks are obvious. The word Destiny in the title is very key in that both characters feel trapped in their lives and what they feel is the current paths of their lives. This makes Reid's transformation believable, a key point where most other books with this trope fall down. Virginia, or Lulu transforms too but a little more abruptly.
This book tackles mental illness which is usually a plus. I have to admit that with my background in Psychiatry, this always makes me nervous in books because I can be picky in my expectations. I thought it an interesting move to use DID as the mental disorder because it is highly controversial in the world of psychiatry. Since mental illness and its effects on the family is not often represented I thought it was a good thing to see mental illness portrayed in a sensitive and compassionate manner while also not shying away from the ramifications for everyone affected.
I will say that I related to this book more as a mother to the characters and they way I felt about them rather than relating directly to them. I think it is interesting that as my kids are teenagers I find some books do this to me now. I had this same experience with another YA book by this same author. I think her characters bring out my protective instincts and this is why I read them this way.
In this book the characters are developed beyond their "good" girl "bad" boy designations so that you see who they truly are inside. That is why this book works. You are able to understand why Reid is on the path he is and doesn't see any other options beyond what he thinks are obvious. The word Destiny in the title is very key in that both characters feel trapped in their lives and what they feel is the current paths of their lives. This makes Reid's transformation believable, a key point where most other books with this trope fall down. Virginia, or Lulu transforms too but a little more abruptly.
This book tackles mental illness which is usually a plus. I have to admit that with my background in Psychiatry, this always makes me nervous in books because I can be picky in my expectations. I thought it an interesting move to use DID as the mental disorder because it is highly controversial in the world of psychiatry. Since mental illness and its effects on the family is not often represented I thought it was a good thing to see mental illness portrayed in a sensitive and compassionate manner while also not shying away from the ramifications for everyone affected.
I will say that I related to this book more as a mother to the characters and they way I felt about them rather than relating directly to them. I think it is interesting that as my kids are teenagers I find some books do this to me now. I had this same experience with another YA book by this same author. I think her characters bring out my protective instincts and this is why I read them this way.
August 7, 2015
It's been a long time since I've written a review so please excuse me if I'm a little rusty.
The weight of Destiny is simple, pure, realistic and so damn relatable. In total honesty, this book made me a little scared. I have felt so much reading it, it was unbelievable. I related to Virginia in so many ways. The thing is, I think almost everyone who has finished high school can.
There is that point where you just don't know who you are and you're so scared of the future to the point where you just want to craw under the blanket and never come out. It's a turning point in our lives.
We all struggle with the choice of becoming who people want us to be and who we want to be.
If anyone would be the epitome of perfection, it would be Virginia. Top grades, good friends, practical...
If anyone was her opposite, it would be Ryder. Failing, no ambition and walking around with some anger issues directed at his brother.
Underneath all these layers are two different people. Virginia struggles with her demons. As a daughter who grew up with a mother suffering from DID, she became routed in her belief that she had to do everything in her power to become her opposite. If that meant controlling herself and living it by the book then so be it.
Ryder barely remembers his mother. Having grown up with his brother and father, grifting, he knows all about life. As soon as he turned 18, he was leaving his stand up brother Luke to be with his dad. He long accepted his fate.
There comes a fateful night where two strangers meet. Everything begins to change. Finally they see the appeal of being themselves and of being accepted.
Okay I honestly loved this book, even though it was a tad short. Dawn did an excellent job of creating a relatable story and I am not reluctant to give this book five stars. I'm not saying it's a perfect 5 stars but it is 5 stars.
I am looking forward to the next in this series.
The weight of Destiny is simple, pure, realistic and so damn relatable. In total honesty, this book made me a little scared. I have felt so much reading it, it was unbelievable. I related to Virginia in so many ways. The thing is, I think almost everyone who has finished high school can.
There is that point where you just don't know who you are and you're so scared of the future to the point where you just want to craw under the blanket and never come out. It's a turning point in our lives.
We all struggle with the choice of becoming who people want us to be and who we want to be.
If anyone would be the epitome of perfection, it would be Virginia. Top grades, good friends, practical...
If anyone was her opposite, it would be Ryder. Failing, no ambition and walking around with some anger issues directed at his brother.
Underneath all these layers are two different people. Virginia struggles with her demons. As a daughter who grew up with a mother suffering from DID, she became routed in her belief that she had to do everything in her power to become her opposite. If that meant controlling herself and living it by the book then so be it.
Ryder barely remembers his mother. Having grown up with his brother and father, grifting, he knows all about life. As soon as he turned 18, he was leaving his stand up brother Luke to be with his dad. He long accepted his fate.
There comes a fateful night where two strangers meet. Everything begins to change. Finally they see the appeal of being themselves and of being accepted.
Okay I honestly loved this book, even though it was a tad short. Dawn did an excellent job of creating a relatable story and I am not reluctant to give this book five stars. I'm not saying it's a perfect 5 stars but it is 5 stars.
I am looking forward to the next in this series.
March 21, 2016
Original review posted at www.fictitiousdelicious.com on 12/09/14:
I'm writing this review two weeks later than I anticipated because I just can't find the words to properly convey how much I love this first book in the Misfits series by Nyrae Dawn. Heck, I'm not sure my thoughts are coherent enough to write this now but you all have to know about the pure perfection that is THE WEIGHT OF DESTINY.
I go back and forth on whether I loved the love story between Ryder and Virginia or the beautiful journey of self discovery they each partake in more. See, Ryder and Virginia come from very different worlds, but they both come from a place that has predetermined their future. Their dark destinies await them no matter how much they try to break free from it, until a fateful night on the beach sets a change in motion.
As you may suspect, a romance blossoms between this unlikely pair. It's that sweet, awkward teenage love that was so fun to read, but as I mentioned, watching both Ryder and Virginia learn about themselves and fight their destinies is an even more important element to this story. Virginia's words are particularly beautiful as she expresses herself poetically. It's a powerful way to tell her story.
Nyrae does what she always does--makes me connect to characters in such a way that the pain they feel radiates straight into my heart. The upside to this is that I also get to feel the joy they feel. Either way, the tears almost always flow. Her characters are REAL. They're RELEVANT. They're BEAUTIFUL. Despite, or maybe because of, their flaws.
I have high expectations for the rest of this series as well. I've become especially fond of Drea and want SO MUCH for that girl to get the goodness she deserves.
Put this one on your MUST READ pile, folks. It's that good.
I'm writing this review two weeks later than I anticipated because I just can't find the words to properly convey how much I love this first book in the Misfits series by Nyrae Dawn. Heck, I'm not sure my thoughts are coherent enough to write this now but you all have to know about the pure perfection that is THE WEIGHT OF DESTINY.
I go back and forth on whether I loved the love story between Ryder and Virginia or the beautiful journey of self discovery they each partake in more. See, Ryder and Virginia come from very different worlds, but they both come from a place that has predetermined their future. Their dark destinies await them no matter how much they try to break free from it, until a fateful night on the beach sets a change in motion.
As you may suspect, a romance blossoms between this unlikely pair. It's that sweet, awkward teenage love that was so fun to read, but as I mentioned, watching both Ryder and Virginia learn about themselves and fight their destinies is an even more important element to this story. Virginia's words are particularly beautiful as she expresses herself poetically. It's a powerful way to tell her story.
Nyrae does what she always does--makes me connect to characters in such a way that the pain they feel radiates straight into my heart. The upside to this is that I also get to feel the joy they feel. Either way, the tears almost always flow. Her characters are REAL. They're RELEVANT. They're BEAUTIFUL. Despite, or maybe because of, their flaws.
I have high expectations for the rest of this series as well. I've become especially fond of Drea and want SO MUCH for that girl to get the goodness she deserves.
Put this one on your MUST READ pile, folks. It's that good.
November 21, 2014
I absolutely loved The Weight of Destiny. The realistic world that Nyrae created draws you in and is filled with amazing and complex characters. This coming of age story will capture your heart.
Ryder grew up without a mother and had a father who treated him more like his peer then his child. He engrained into Ryder at a young age his beliefs about society and where Ryder belonged in it. He's meant to be a thief and a criminal. It's not until he meets Virginia that he realizes that his father might have been wrong and that he can be anything he aspires to be not just what is expected.
While Ryder wanted to be just like his father, Virginia has spent her entire life trying to not be her mother. Fear drives all of her actions and her reactions to life. She never does what she wants, she only behaves as she thinks a perfect person should - following rules, never lying and staying calm. Until she meets Ryder. Than her emotions and thoughts are all over the place. She wants so much more and it is incredibly confusing and frightening to her - she has no clue if what she is experiencing is normal or not.
Ryder and Virginia have so much to overcome and to learn about themselves. Their love story is emotional and sweet - I couldn't put it down. Often the first book in any new series can be overwhelming - lots of backstory and characters to introduce. I thought the author did a great job of telling Ryder and Virginia's story plus unleashing so much information while leaving you wanting more. I can't wait to read the further adventures of the Misfits crew.
I definitely recommend The Weight of Destiny.
Ryder grew up without a mother and had a father who treated him more like his peer then his child. He engrained into Ryder at a young age his beliefs about society and where Ryder belonged in it. He's meant to be a thief and a criminal. It's not until he meets Virginia that he realizes that his father might have been wrong and that he can be anything he aspires to be not just what is expected.
While Ryder wanted to be just like his father, Virginia has spent her entire life trying to not be her mother. Fear drives all of her actions and her reactions to life. She never does what she wants, she only behaves as she thinks a perfect person should - following rules, never lying and staying calm. Until she meets Ryder. Than her emotions and thoughts are all over the place. She wants so much more and it is incredibly confusing and frightening to her - she has no clue if what she is experiencing is normal or not.
Ryder and Virginia have so much to overcome and to learn about themselves. Their love story is emotional and sweet - I couldn't put it down. Often the first book in any new series can be overwhelming - lots of backstory and characters to introduce. I thought the author did a great job of telling Ryder and Virginia's story plus unleashing so much information while leaving you wanting more. I can't wait to read the further adventures of the Misfits crew.
I definitely recommend The Weight of Destiny.
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