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Tamara
High school can be hell. Especially for Tamara Riley. Bullied and humiliated by her classmates, her only solace is in her deceased mother's strange and tattered grimoires. When the bullying takes a sudden and shocking turn, Tamara finds herself transformed from a meek victim to a sexy and powerful avenger. Empowered by a dark magic, she now knows the fears and hidden desires of her tormentors. They thought they put her through hell? Tamara's going to show them what hell really is...
- GenresHorrorFictionParanormal
166 pages, Paperback
First published October 27, 2014
4 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 3, 2023
This is a fast-paced read about a high-school girl who happens to practice witchcraft.
I felt like it was written like a movie script. It worked, though.
Excellent well-developed characters.
Tamara is a victim of bullying, and I felt sympathy towards her.
She's deceived and ends up tragically killed.
She comes back from the dead to get her revenge, but in the process, innocent people are killed. So I couldn't sympathise with her after that.
I felt like it was written like a movie script. It worked, though.
Excellent well-developed characters.
Tamara is a victim of bullying, and I felt sympathy towards her.
She's deceived and ends up tragically killed.
She comes back from the dead to get her revenge, but in the process, innocent people are killed. So I couldn't sympathise with her after that.
December 5, 2014
Originally I purchased the book because the author Jeffrey is a super cool and very nice guy. And it was a bargain on Kindle! I hadn't seen the movie version he wrote a few years back but I know he said the novel was the story as he wanted it.
It was easy to get through, a relatively quick read. Very easy to get caught up in the story and the action so much so that there were a couple mornings I didn't leave for work on time! ;) I had a bit of a hard time remembering the difference between Shawn and Patrick but they both seemed rotten so there wasn't much difference between those jerks.
Creepy story of retribution and inequity in stature/social class. It's sad to think of how many people have realities like this, the hidden evils/tragedies that lurk under the surface.
Where we would have initially sided with Tamara out of pity, her actions became despicable and unjustified. That is part of the message. The character of Chloe helps to push the issue of personal choices and boundaries.
Now I'll have to hunt down the movie and compare it. I'm sure the book is a smidge better because it is more true to the original intent of the creator. I remember when I met Jeffrey a year ago, he told us the book was forthcoming so it's nice to have read it. Good job, Jeffrey!! :)
It was easy to get through, a relatively quick read. Very easy to get caught up in the story and the action so much so that there were a couple mornings I didn't leave for work on time! ;) I had a bit of a hard time remembering the difference between Shawn and Patrick but they both seemed rotten so there wasn't much difference between those jerks.
Creepy story of retribution and inequity in stature/social class. It's sad to think of how many people have realities like this, the hidden evils/tragedies that lurk under the surface.
Where we would have initially sided with Tamara out of pity, her actions became despicable and unjustified. That is part of the message. The character of Chloe helps to push the issue of personal choices and boundaries.
Now I'll have to hunt down the movie and compare it. I'm sure the book is a smidge better because it is more true to the original intent of the creator. I remember when I met Jeffrey a year ago, he told us the book was forthcoming so it's nice to have read it. Good job, Jeffrey!! :)
May 19, 2023
I am going to start off by saying I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily on my own accord.
Thank you BookSirens and Jeffrey Reddick for allowing me to read Tamara early. This quick story totally brought me back to my love of cheesy horror movies and books the more and more I read of it. I grew up loving Fear Street and such but this book is a bit more graphic than Fear Street and somethings do happen makes you go wow. And it was not done for shock factor, more so it fit the story since Tamara is seeking out her vengeance on people who wronged her. Tamara is your typical horror character that goes from the bottom of the totem pole to a crazy psychopath. I did have a feeling I knew where the story was going to go, but there was still some things that did catch me by surprise which was nice. If you do like quick little thriller stories and love classic cheesy horror movies you should read this story at least once. It is only 179 pages which makes it a quick read.
Thank you BookSirens and Jeffrey Reddick for allowing me to read Tamara early. This quick story totally brought me back to my love of cheesy horror movies and books the more and more I read of it. I grew up loving Fear Street and such but this book is a bit more graphic than Fear Street and somethings do happen makes you go wow. And it was not done for shock factor, more so it fit the story since Tamara is seeking out her vengeance on people who wronged her. Tamara is your typical horror character that goes from the bottom of the totem pole to a crazy psychopath. I did have a feeling I knew where the story was going to go, but there was still some things that did catch me by surprise which was nice. If you do like quick little thriller stories and love classic cheesy horror movies you should read this story at least once. It is only 179 pages which makes it a quick read.
September 17, 2023
Okay, so, I remember watching Tamara when it came out nearly two decades ago. By pure coincidence I recently considered rewatching it, and I’m so glad I hadn’t before picking up this ARC through Book Sirens, because holy hell, I know for a fact that I definitely enjoyed this novelisation more than I ever had the movie.
Now, as I mentioned, the film came out a while ago, and knowing that, it weirded me out a bit that the story had been modernised, but seeing as it is partially a coming of age story, with a heavy focus on teen social dynamics, slightly tweaking minor elements to make them more contemporary works to the benefit of not alienating a younger target audience of the horror community.
I did like the blatant, and stated, nod to Stephen King’s Carrie as there are some clear similarities and common themes between the two stories, but if anything, this would be Carrie by way of a Jennifer’s Body/The Craft hybrid.
I know this horror novelisation is more mainstream than extreme, but I would highly recommend it to even, if not especially, grudgepunk horror fans.
Now, as I mentioned, the film came out a while ago, and knowing that, it weirded me out a bit that the story had been modernised, but seeing as it is partially a coming of age story, with a heavy focus on teen social dynamics, slightly tweaking minor elements to make them more contemporary works to the benefit of not alienating a younger target audience of the horror community.
I did like the blatant, and stated, nod to Stephen King’s Carrie as there are some clear similarities and common themes between the two stories, but if anything, this would be Carrie by way of a Jennifer’s Body/The Craft hybrid.
I know this horror novelisation is more mainstream than extreme, but I would highly recommend it to even, if not especially, grudgepunk horror fans.
June 21, 2017
Just like the movie
I have the DVD of the movie that was based off this novella and I watch it every Halloween! I did not know that there was a book, so I was so excited when I found it. Thinking back to the movie, they stuck very close to the novella. I could basically play the movie and see the scenes in my head as I was reading. I could even picture the actors as their respective characters. Glad I found the book and I would encourage horror movie fans to watch the movie as well.
I have the DVD of the movie that was based off this novella and I watch it every Halloween! I did not know that there was a book, so I was so excited when I found it. Thinking back to the movie, they stuck very close to the novella. I could basically play the movie and see the scenes in my head as I was reading. I could even picture the actors as their respective characters. Glad I found the book and I would encourage horror movie fans to watch the movie as well.
May 21, 2023
This book was very true to the movie. Part of me wishes that the authors would have made it longer and added more detail, but the other part of me thinks it is perfect just as it is. This novel truly embodies early 2000s horror, and as someone who was just discovering horror in this time period I find it extremely comforting. I really appreciate that the ending leaves room for the story to be continued without ending on a cliff hanger. I would definitely recommend this book, and if a sequel ever comes out count me in!
May 9, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is based on the movie. Tamara is a lonely high school student with a troubled life. The other kids at school are mean to her, and she wants to be loved and powerful. Witchcraft for the win. Tamara is done wrong at a party, and gets her revenge. This book was short and I enjoyed the story. If you saw the movie, you know how it goes, but the book expands on Tamara's life more. A decent read.
This book is based on the movie. Tamara is a lonely high school student with a troubled life. The other kids at school are mean to her, and she wants to be loved and powerful. Witchcraft for the win. Tamara is done wrong at a party, and gets her revenge. This book was short and I enjoyed the story. If you saw the movie, you know how it goes, but the book expands on Tamara's life more. A decent read.
July 11, 2023
I stayed up all night to read this one and I really liked it, I saw the movie a while back and thought I'd check out the book. The author really fleshed out the story from the movie and gave better insights into some of the characters as a whole. I've always liked novelizations and this one didn't disappoint. I would definitely recommend it and would read something from this author again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 17, 2021
Despite the numerous spelling errors, I actually liked this book. It was engaging and followed pretty closely to the movie’s plot.
I won’t lie: the lesbian subplot did seem a little preachy, but for what it was, it made it its own thing (word was that it was part of the original script).
All in all, this was a pretty solid read.
I won’t lie: the lesbian subplot did seem a little preachy, but for what it was, it made it its own thing (word was that it was part of the original script).
All in all, this was a pretty solid read.
June 28, 2023
I've always had a soft spot for horror novels about bullied girls getting even. Tamera is just that, and it's a glorious read. Kept me flipping the pages from beginning to end.
It is also worth watching if you haven't seen the movie
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily..
It is also worth watching if you haven't seen the movie
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily..
January 24, 2024
Horror story that keeps your attention from the start. Tamara was a victim until one day she discovers something that she inherited from her family. Now she stronger, no longer a victim and ready for revenge. A magnificent horror story with amazing characters.
Disclaimer: I received this review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Disclaimer: I received this review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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June 24, 2023I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It’s not the next great American novel but I remember seeing the movie years ago and I loved it. The book was pretty enjoyable a quick fast paced read. Would recommend if you enjoyed the film!
It’s not the next great American novel but I remember seeing the movie years ago and I loved it. The book was pretty enjoyable a quick fast paced read. Would recommend if you enjoyed the film!
July 21, 2023
Pretty straight forward revenge horror story. The titular character is bullied, dies, then comes back through witchcraft. It's fun though, and the movie isn't too bad either.
Recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 23, 2024
If you enjoyed the movie and can overlook the spelling/grammatical errors and the fact that the writing felt a bit rushed at the end, then you'll enjoy this book. The errors took me out of it sometimes, but I enjoyed it overall!
June 28, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I zoomed through it and just could not put it down..highly recommended!
January 9, 2016
Tamara
By Jeffrey Reddick; JD Matthews
Reminiscent of the classic Stephen King work, Carrie, Tamara by Jeffrey Reddick takes high school bullying to another level completely. .Although similar to King's cult classic movie/book, Reddick gives readers a tale that most certainly surpasses its predecessor when it comes to a tale about a crazy, mistreated, vengeful teenage girl.
Tamara is your stereotypical loner, or outsider. She's praised by her teachers for her academic ability and ridiculed by her peers for everything. Tamara lives in deplorable conditions with her widowed, alcoholic father.
As if life wasn't hard enough her peers continue to find ways to shame and humiliate Tamara. But this time the joke was deadly and those responsible will not walk away laughing.
Tamara was a quick and easy read. Although not my favorite book ever, it was entertaining. Although slightly predictable, Tamara struggled for some sort of surprise for readers - which I feel it achieved slightly.
Reddick does tangle some touchy subject matter but not in too grave detail. The most concerning is sexual content that some might find difficult to read. In addition the overall cruelty Tamara was treated with could cause readers to have an uncomfortable feeling in one's gut.
I feel Tamara is a decent read that will tickle anyone's paranormal/horror fancy. If you were a Carrie fan, the similarities are enough you'd most likely enjoy this. If you weren't a Carrie fan the differences are substantial enough that I'd recommend giving Tamara a try
www.tabbyafae.com
By Jeffrey Reddick; JD Matthews
Reminiscent of the classic Stephen King work, Carrie, Tamara by Jeffrey Reddick takes high school bullying to another level completely. .Although similar to King's cult classic movie/book, Reddick gives readers a tale that most certainly surpasses its predecessor when it comes to a tale about a crazy, mistreated, vengeful teenage girl.
Tamara is your stereotypical loner, or outsider. She's praised by her teachers for her academic ability and ridiculed by her peers for everything. Tamara lives in deplorable conditions with her widowed, alcoholic father.
As if life wasn't hard enough her peers continue to find ways to shame and humiliate Tamara. But this time the joke was deadly and those responsible will not walk away laughing.
Tamara was a quick and easy read. Although not my favorite book ever, it was entertaining. Although slightly predictable, Tamara struggled for some sort of surprise for readers - which I feel it achieved slightly.
Reddick does tangle some touchy subject matter but not in too grave detail. The most concerning is sexual content that some might find difficult to read. In addition the overall cruelty Tamara was treated with could cause readers to have an uncomfortable feeling in one's gut.
I feel Tamara is a decent read that will tickle anyone's paranormal/horror fancy. If you were a Carrie fan, the similarities are enough you'd most likely enjoy this. If you weren't a Carrie fan the differences are substantial enough that I'd recommend giving Tamara a try
www.tabbyafae.com
September 13, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. As always I want to thank the writer and publishers for their hard work.
One thing I do have to say is that it's been a long time since I've finished a book in one sitting. It was such a great book and I couldn't put it down!
The horror, gore and overall scenes I truly enjoyed. At first I did make me think of Jennifers Body then it changed. The strong emotions of anger, hate, revenge were very much clear in the writing. I felt that what happened was very much deserved and Karma did payback.
This book I could definitely see myself reading again. It's just one of those books I really enjoyed and got emersed into immediately. I hope to read another like this again.
One thing I do have to say is that it's been a long time since I've finished a book in one sitting. It was such a great book and I couldn't put it down!
The horror, gore and overall scenes I truly enjoyed. At first I did make me think of Jennifers Body then it changed. The strong emotions of anger, hate, revenge were very much clear in the writing. I felt that what happened was very much deserved and Karma did payback.
This book I could definitely see myself reading again. It's just one of those books I really enjoyed and got emersed into immediately. I hope to read another like this again.
December 11, 2014
A well written story with enough twists and turns to keep you interested. Although the story may seem familiar, it offers enough new scenarios to entertain.
A wronged spirit, witchcraft, revenge, young adult sexual situations - it all adds up to Tamara!
A wronged spirit, witchcraft, revenge, young adult sexual situations - it all adds up to Tamara!
January 27, 2015
Um, well this is written by someone I know and admire and well... yeah, it isn't good. Sorry.
April 8, 2015
Story moves along at brisk pace, but does little to expand on the movie by the same name. In this case, the movie is truly better than the book.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews