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Light Keeper #1
The Legend of the Light Keeper
After a hurricane destroys her home, Lily Jordan is ready for life to get back to normal. That would be easy if her mother’s recent engagement hadn’t landed her in a house along Southeast Texas’ most haunted ghost road. The secluded scenic road is steeped in rich history and legends, but when Lily is given an old diary on her birthday, will she find that those legends hold more for her future than she’s bargained for?
With the help of new friends, Hunter and Owen, and forbidden love, Talon, will she uncover dark secrets from the past and find the key to her own gifts? Is it fate or circumstance that brought Lily to her new home? Normal gives way to the paranormal in book one of the Light Keeper series where mystery and suspense keeps you guessing until the very last page.
With the help of new friends, Hunter and Owen, and forbidden love, Talon, will she uncover dark secrets from the past and find the key to her own gifts? Is it fate or circumstance that brought Lily to her new home? Normal gives way to the paranormal in book one of the Light Keeper series where mystery and suspense keeps you guessing until the very last page.
- GenresYoung Adult
174 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 2, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
April 9, 2015
3? 3.5? 4? STARS
So I'm feeling generous tonight. I'm wavering between 3-4 stars. I don't think that it's as good as other 4 star books, and I'm usually a tightwad with my stars.
This book probably snuck into my graces because it gave me the same feeling I had when I was a kid with a few different movies/books. It reminds me of the Disney movie, "Child of Glass" based on the book The Ghost belonged to Me by Richard Peck.
I watched it in the 80's when you had to catch it by sheer dumb luck when it was being played as a special on network TV.
It also reminded me a bit of how I felt watching, "Candleshoe" with a YOUNG Jodie Foster from 1977 (I watched it in the 80's as well). Although this book didn't have a treasure focus like that movie.
Anyway, I'm just saying that the book made me FEEL like 4 stars when I know it was just a fun story and not something mind-blowing. It was probably written for a high school age audience. There were times that the MC's internal dialogue about her crush made me roll my eyes, but she was written as 15 for heaven's sake, so she was acting her age. She even acknowledges to herself that she's acting childish at times.
The MC has seen a few ghosts in her time and was at peace with them for the most part. She and her mother move in with her soon to be step-dad and his teenage son (whom she's never met before). They learn that the area is known for mysterious unexplained lights. Their home has only a couple of neighboring homes within sight. Otherwise, it is secluded in the woods. They meet the teenage boys next door, and then the ghost hunting begins. The MC has never experienced anything like this before.
It's a fun strange mix of that 80's feel ghost story/mystery suspense in a modern setting.
Some people are going to be all icky over the fact that the MC and her crush are about to be step siblings. Somehow though, I get it. They just met for heaven's sake, so it's not like they grew up together. They aren't blood related in any way, and their parents are just engaged. So I can see something like this happening and trying to figure out what you do with that. So that didn't really bother me.
So I think that young teens would really enjoy it. If you're nostalgic like me, you might like it too. Fun, easy read with the perfect amount of ghostly mystery for wimps like me.
Thank you Netgalley and Booktrope for a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
So I'm feeling generous tonight. I'm wavering between 3-4 stars. I don't think that it's as good as other 4 star books, and I'm usually a tightwad with my stars.
This book probably snuck into my graces because it gave me the same feeling I had when I was a kid with a few different movies/books. It reminds me of the Disney movie, "Child of Glass" based on the book The Ghost belonged to Me by Richard Peck.
I watched it in the 80's when you had to catch it by sheer dumb luck when it was being played as a special on network TV.
It also reminded me a bit of how I felt watching, "Candleshoe" with a YOUNG Jodie Foster from 1977 (I watched it in the 80's as well). Although this book didn't have a treasure focus like that movie.
Anyway, I'm just saying that the book made me FEEL like 4 stars when I know it was just a fun story and not something mind-blowing. It was probably written for a high school age audience. There were times that the MC's internal dialogue about her crush made me roll my eyes, but she was written as 15 for heaven's sake, so she was acting her age. She even acknowledges to herself that she's acting childish at times.
The MC has seen a few ghosts in her time and was at peace with them for the most part. She and her mother move in with her soon to be step-dad and his teenage son (whom she's never met before). They learn that the area is known for mysterious unexplained lights. Their home has only a couple of neighboring homes within sight. Otherwise, it is secluded in the woods. They meet the teenage boys next door, and then the ghost hunting begins. The MC has never experienced anything like this before.
It's a fun strange mix of that 80's feel ghost story/mystery suspense in a modern setting.
Some people are going to be all icky over the fact that the MC and her crush are about to be step siblings. Somehow though, I get it. They just met for heaven's sake, so it's not like they grew up together. They aren't blood related in any way, and their parents are just engaged. So I can see something like this happening and trying to figure out what you do with that. So that didn't really bother me.
So I think that young teens would really enjoy it. If you're nostalgic like me, you might like it too. Fun, easy read with the perfect amount of ghostly mystery for wimps like me.
Thank you Netgalley and Booktrope for a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2015
I received this book for free to review thanks to netgalley, Kelly Hall and Bookthrope Publishing.
I actually really enjoyed this story. It was really good and the plot was well written. I liked the development between characters and how they all fitted together. I know that some people disagree with Lily and Talons relationship because of reasons in the story however they aren't related so I don't see to much of a problem if they are in love so be it. I also enjoyed how the story was built up to find out about the light and learn Alyssa's story and how it liked to Lily and the others.
For me a great read and I will be reading the next one when it comes out :)
I actually really enjoyed this story. It was really good and the plot was well written. I liked the development between characters and how they all fitted together. I know that some people disagree with Lily and Talons relationship because of reasons in the story however they aren't related so I don't see to much of a problem if they are in love so be it. I also enjoyed how the story was built up to find out about the light and learn Alyssa's story and how it liked to Lily and the others.
For me a great read and I will be reading the next one when it comes out :)
June 29, 2015
3.5 stars
I really like fictional stories that play off of real legends, and apparently this is one. The whole history of Bragg's legend was really interesting to me, and I liked the paranormal/ghost story twist that the author used.
In typical YA fashion, we meet the heroine as she's adapting to a major life change. Then cute boys are throw in. THEN, the story gets interesting when they start to explore the mysteries of the Light. I thought the use of the Granny character was really smart, giving the author a way to tell some history stories without drawing away from the present setting. Then the use of the diary to really flesh out the backstory made me go "Oh!" as a whole new layer was added. That's when the book really picked up for me and I got sucked into the mystery of figuring out what the Light was all about and why Lily was connected.
However, there were a few hiccups for me. The weird love triangle where Lily quickly falls for her soon-to-be step-brother really was a little off-putting for me. It seems to me that it would've worked just fine for them to develop a brother-sister relationship (which could have been quite touching too, if in a different way). She could've just as easily developed feelings for Owen, and THAT turns out to be forbidden too... I don't know. I'm usually pretty picky about how any romance is used in a story, but this was a little weird for me.
I also found the mother character very lacking. She and Tom (the soon-to-be step-father) are barely present in the story, which is something you see all too often in YA, I think. Her mom seems like kind a flake, even working through her daughter's 16th birthday when this poor girl clearly needs time with her mom. So there's that.
Also, Lily is often put in the place of a girly, weak, helpless damsel. It happens over and over and over again. Sometimes she stands up for herself and insists that the boys include her or take her seriously. Sometimes she realizes she's acting childish. But most of the time, she is the girl with the girl jobs; they are the boys who are strong and in charge.
BUT, it is a quick, fun read. The writing itself is very YA -- not too complicated, with simple language used. There's certainly enough romance to keep readers of Lily's age engrossed. I think adults will also like this if you're looking for a lot of mystery to figure out, and the action sections are very entertaining. It's a very well-edited book, so that helps a lot in feeling like the book is of good, objective quality.
Definitely worth a read if you're looking for a quick, YA ghost story.
I really like fictional stories that play off of real legends, and apparently this is one. The whole history of Bragg's legend was really interesting to me, and I liked the paranormal/ghost story twist that the author used.
In typical YA fashion, we meet the heroine as she's adapting to a major life change. Then cute boys are throw in. THEN, the story gets interesting when they start to explore the mysteries of the Light. I thought the use of the Granny character was really smart, giving the author a way to tell some history stories without drawing away from the present setting. Then the use of the diary to really flesh out the backstory made me go "Oh!" as a whole new layer was added. That's when the book really picked up for me and I got sucked into the mystery of figuring out what the Light was all about and why Lily was connected.
However, there were a few hiccups for me. The weird love triangle where Lily quickly falls for her soon-to-be step-brother really was a little off-putting for me. It seems to me that it would've worked just fine for them to develop a brother-sister relationship (which could have been quite touching too, if in a different way). She could've just as easily developed feelings for Owen, and THAT turns out to be forbidden too... I don't know. I'm usually pretty picky about how any romance is used in a story, but this was a little weird for me.
I also found the mother character very lacking. She and Tom (the soon-to-be step-father) are barely present in the story, which is something you see all too often in YA, I think. Her mom seems like kind a flake, even working through her daughter's 16th birthday when this poor girl clearly needs time with her mom. So there's that.
Also, Lily is often put in the place of a girly, weak, helpless damsel. It happens over and over and over again. Sometimes she stands up for herself and insists that the boys include her or take her seriously. Sometimes she realizes she's acting childish. But most of the time, she is the girl with the girl jobs; they are the boys who are strong and in charge.
BUT, it is a quick, fun read. The writing itself is very YA -- not too complicated, with simple language used. There's certainly enough romance to keep readers of Lily's age engrossed. I think adults will also like this if you're looking for a lot of mystery to figure out, and the action sections are very entertaining. It's a very well-edited book, so that helps a lot in feeling like the book is of good, objective quality.
Definitely worth a read if you're looking for a quick, YA ghost story.
April 7, 2015
Lily has been left with nothing after the hurricane, and after months living in a hotel, it really isn't that hard to follow her mother into some middle-of-nowhere town to start afresh. There's her new step-father and step-brother-to-be to contend with; getting along with the locals; oh, and dealing with a spooky paranormal light.
I really enjoyed this book. It's a very impressive début, with a confident voice. Hall's writing is smooth and carries you along, making you want to read just one more chapter!
It follows a group of 16-19 year olds, as they uncover the truth of a local mystery. But despite their age, their actions make them seem younger - making a den in the middle of the woods; pranks and walkie-talkies. But I didn't find this detrimental. In fact, along with an atmosphere that felt "safe"; it simply felt that the book would be safe for younger readers; while not being questioned by older readers.
There. I think that made sense.
The characters are all pretty cool.
Lily is equal parts girly-girl and ready to get her hands dirty. After a few hesitations, she dives straight into her new life and makes the most of it. Yes, she's the pretty girl that all the boys immediately fancy, but it's refreshing to not have the clichéd denials and the "oh-but-I've-never-attracted-anyone-before" line.
Talon is both the love interest, and the soon-to-be step-brother. If that makes your skin crawl, go read something else.
The morality of falling in love with someone that will be related to you by marriage is examined in this book. It's not done lightly, and although I was wary at first, I thought it was done very well.
Owen and Hunter add an entertainment factor to the book. They are real characters, with real feelings, but their not afraid to squabble like siblings and accidentally wake you up at 6am singing Old MacDonald.
I enjoyed the background and history that was created, and how it wove down into modern life and linked everyone together. The mystery of Alyssa and the white light pulls you along, with little hints and keeps you guessing until the end.
I will definitely be reading more of Hall's work in the future!
I really enjoyed this book. It's a very impressive début, with a confident voice. Hall's writing is smooth and carries you along, making you want to read just one more chapter!
It follows a group of 16-19 year olds, as they uncover the truth of a local mystery. But despite their age, their actions make them seem younger - making a den in the middle of the woods; pranks and walkie-talkies. But I didn't find this detrimental. In fact, along with an atmosphere that felt "safe"; it simply felt that the book would be safe for younger readers; while not being questioned by older readers.
There. I think that made sense.
The characters are all pretty cool.
Lily is equal parts girly-girl and ready to get her hands dirty. After a few hesitations, she dives straight into her new life and makes the most of it. Yes, she's the pretty girl that all the boys immediately fancy, but it's refreshing to not have the clichéd denials and the "oh-but-I've-never-attracted-anyone-before" line.
Talon is both the love interest, and the soon-to-be step-brother. If that makes your skin crawl, go read something else.
The morality of falling in love with someone that will be related to you by marriage is examined in this book. It's not done lightly, and although I was wary at first, I thought it was done very well.
Owen and Hunter add an entertainment factor to the book. They are real characters, with real feelings, but their not afraid to squabble like siblings and accidentally wake you up at 6am singing Old MacDonald.
I enjoyed the background and history that was created, and how it wove down into modern life and linked everyone together. The mystery of Alyssa and the white light pulls you along, with little hints and keeps you guessing until the end.
I will definitely be reading more of Hall's work in the future!
August 8, 2015
Title: THE LEGEND OF THE LIGHT KEEPER
Series: Light Keeper #1
Category /Genre: YA, paranormal mystery
Recommended for: young adults (12-18)
Received from: Kelly Hall (in exchange for an honest review)
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
This is the first book in the Light Keeper series. They will need to be read in order.
Twice a year, Aug 13th and Dec 13th, I choose a YA book to read in remembrance of Camille Vilar (her last day and her birthday). The daughter of my best friend, she called me “other mother.” She was taken from us by the evil Hurricane Charley. I almost passed up this book when I read the blurb and saw the first line. I am so very glad that I saw it as a positive sign instead of fearing the words to be held within.
The hurricane mentioned is the catalyst to bring Lily and her mother to their new home in an area that used to be known as Bragg, TX. Legends have investigators and thrill-seekers searching the area at times, but most of the time is it is a quiet little area in the woods. Lily and Talon are now living far from the beaches where they grew up, but have made friends with the only other teenagers in their three-home sub-division.
The characters are all well-developed and each is unique. During my time spent reading this story, I felt myself to be part of the hot and humid days of summer in a small Texas back woods and loved every minute of it. Based on a legend that does exist in S.E. Texas, the ghosts and legends are only part of this deep, yet fun, story.
I don’t usually read other reviews, but this time I did. To my mind there is no ick-factor in Lily and Talon’s relationship. They are not siblings. Also, some have complained that Lily’s mother is an absentee parent. No sixteen-year old needs a helicopter parent. I found her mother’s involvement level to be spot on with what is appropriate and true.
Seriously? This is Kelly Hall’s first release? I hope she’ll keep on providing her unique voice to the literary world.
Series: Light Keeper #1
Category /Genre: YA, paranormal mystery
Recommended for: young adults (12-18)
Received from: Kelly Hall (in exchange for an honest review)
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
This is the first book in the Light Keeper series. They will need to be read in order.
Twice a year, Aug 13th and Dec 13th, I choose a YA book to read in remembrance of Camille Vilar (her last day and her birthday). The daughter of my best friend, she called me “other mother.” She was taken from us by the evil Hurricane Charley. I almost passed up this book when I read the blurb and saw the first line. I am so very glad that I saw it as a positive sign instead of fearing the words to be held within.
The hurricane mentioned is the catalyst to bring Lily and her mother to their new home in an area that used to be known as Bragg, TX. Legends have investigators and thrill-seekers searching the area at times, but most of the time is it is a quiet little area in the woods. Lily and Talon are now living far from the beaches where they grew up, but have made friends with the only other teenagers in their three-home sub-division.
The characters are all well-developed and each is unique. During my time spent reading this story, I felt myself to be part of the hot and humid days of summer in a small Texas back woods and loved every minute of it. Based on a legend that does exist in S.E. Texas, the ghosts and legends are only part of this deep, yet fun, story.
I don’t usually read other reviews, but this time I did. To my mind there is no ick-factor in Lily and Talon’s relationship. They are not siblings. Also, some have complained that Lily’s mother is an absentee parent. No sixteen-year old needs a helicopter parent. I found her mother’s involvement level to be spot on with what is appropriate and true.
Seriously? This is Kelly Hall’s first release? I hope she’ll keep on providing her unique voice to the literary world.
April 8, 2015
Legend of the Light Keeper was a fantastic story that sucks you right in. The book really was nothing like I expected it to be. I love stories that have diaries and have some historical background/references that are important to the storyline (even if the history is true only for the book).
The characters were clearly able to discern between. I loved Granny. She is probably my favorite character in this book. How could you not like her with her very asserting attitude and strong will. The main character, Lily, was the kindn of character that I'm drawn to the most, and that is probably because she is really similar to me. She isn't overly girly and didn't mind getting her hands dirty... to the point she would get frustrated if she was left out of something due to the fact that she was a girl. But, she wasn't flawless or perfect. She had fears and wasn't afraid to admit that, and she had her moments of mistakes like running off without thinking. Owen and Hunter were pretty awesome characters, but Owen irritated me during a lot of moments when it was just him and Lily, even after a certain revelation. Talon was a freaking amazing character (even the name is cool). He had his own issues that he was dealing with, but they didn't hold him back from his protective nature over Lily or from falling in love with her.
Forbidden romances are the best kinds of romances in YA fiction. I think that step-sibling romances are not usually depicted in stories, but I find step-sibling romances to be the most interesting. I am so glad that there are more books in this series because there are so many questions that I still have and honestly, this book was just that captivating that I'm not reading for Lily's and Talon's, Owen's, and Hunter's overall story to be over. I'm ready for what comes next... like right now!
*Note: I received this book free from Good Tales Book Tours and Kelly Hall in exchange for an honest review.
The characters were clearly able to discern between. I loved Granny. She is probably my favorite character in this book. How could you not like her with her very asserting attitude and strong will. The main character, Lily, was the kindn of character that I'm drawn to the most, and that is probably because she is really similar to me. She isn't overly girly and didn't mind getting her hands dirty... to the point she would get frustrated if she was left out of something due to the fact that she was a girl. But, she wasn't flawless or perfect. She had fears and wasn't afraid to admit that, and she had her moments of mistakes like running off without thinking. Owen and Hunter were pretty awesome characters, but Owen irritated me during a lot of moments when it was just him and Lily, even after a certain revelation. Talon was a freaking amazing character (even the name is cool). He had his own issues that he was dealing with, but they didn't hold him back from his protective nature over Lily or from falling in love with her.
Forbidden romances are the best kinds of romances in YA fiction. I think that step-sibling romances are not usually depicted in stories, but I find step-sibling romances to be the most interesting. I am so glad that there are more books in this series because there are so many questions that I still have and honestly, this book was just that captivating that I'm not reading for Lily's and Talon's, Owen's, and Hunter's overall story to be over. I'm ready for what comes next... like right now!
*Note: I received this book free from Good Tales Book Tours and Kelly Hall in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2015
I received this book VIA NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Ohhh my gosh! This was so freaking AMAZING! I just.. oh my gosh
I just want to say, the writing is brilliant! I loved this story so much. The only thing that kinda weirded me out was the whole stepbrother/sister/cousin crush thing going on.
It was already kinda "whaaat in the hellll?" when she came out liking Talon.
But the whole cousin thing just pushed it to the mega ew zone.
You would honestly think it would be a breaking point and make you want to stop reading, but yet it somehow keeps you sucked in. Which you are pretty thankful for because everything seems to work out. By the end of the book I was ready for her and Talon to get together (which of course means I don't want their parents together). I can't stand their parents actually. What kind of parents just leave their kids alone all the time? Kinda gross when they are home they are to busy with their own "marriage" planning and doing the bump and grind. Seriously? I know you are still young, buuut, you DO have kids! I really can't wait for book two to be released. I'll devour it as fast as I did with this book.
If you read this book, I'd say clear your schedule. ^_^
Ohhh my gosh! This was so freaking AMAZING! I just.. oh my gosh
I just want to say, the writing is brilliant! I loved this story so much. The only thing that kinda weirded me out was the whole stepbrother/sister/cousin crush thing going on.
It was already kinda "whaaat in the hellll?" when she came out liking Talon.
But the whole cousin thing just pushed it to the mega ew zone.
You would honestly think it would be a breaking point and make you want to stop reading, but yet it somehow keeps you sucked in. Which you are pretty thankful for because everything seems to work out. By the end of the book I was ready for her and Talon to get together (which of course means I don't want their parents together). I can't stand their parents actually. What kind of parents just leave their kids alone all the time? Kinda gross when they are home they are to busy with their own "marriage" planning and doing the bump and grind. Seriously? I know you are still young, buuut, you DO have kids! I really can't wait for book two to be released. I'll devour it as fast as I did with this book.
If you read this book, I'd say clear your schedule. ^_^
November 26, 2015
The Light Within And Without
This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read the next one!
Lily and Talon's parents are engaged and have decided they will cohabitate whether Lily and Talon agree or not. It is meant to be a fresh start for all of them. Lily and her mom lost everything in a hurricane so they have no choice to start over. Ghost Road Drive just happens to be where they will be doing it. Remote and undeveloped the area also has a mysterious Light that is a famous tourist attraction. Why is Lily drawn to the Light? Is it what her grandmother was talking about? Or something sinister? What exactly are the shadows that have threatened her as long as she can remember?
Talon has only met Lily twice before. Now be feels drawn to her. He is desperately trying to start over but he is intrigued by Lily in a way he never has been before by anyone. Why does it bother him so much the two neighbor guys seem so interested in Lily? Is there something between them? Will they all live happily ever after in their new home? Or will something go terribly wrong?
***This series is suitable for young adult through adult readers who enjoy a little romance in their paranormal action adventure mysteries with a side of legends and a sinister force lurking in the shadows :)
This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read the next one!
Lily and Talon's parents are engaged and have decided they will cohabitate whether Lily and Talon agree or not. It is meant to be a fresh start for all of them. Lily and her mom lost everything in a hurricane so they have no choice to start over. Ghost Road Drive just happens to be where they will be doing it. Remote and undeveloped the area also has a mysterious Light that is a famous tourist attraction. Why is Lily drawn to the Light? Is it what her grandmother was talking about? Or something sinister? What exactly are the shadows that have threatened her as long as she can remember?
Talon has only met Lily twice before. Now be feels drawn to her. He is desperately trying to start over but he is intrigued by Lily in a way he never has been before by anyone. Why does it bother him so much the two neighbor guys seem so interested in Lily? Is there something between them? Will they all live happily ever after in their new home? Or will something go terribly wrong?
***This series is suitable for young adult through adult readers who enjoy a little romance in their paranormal action adventure mysteries with a side of legends and a sinister force lurking in the shadows :)
May 22, 2015
What can I say? I loved this book. To put it simply, it was engrossing, smart, and entertaining.
The author definitely knows how to write for a YA audience; it was very easy for me to get wrapped up in Lily’s world. I couldn’t and wouldn’t stop until I finished! I loved this character almost immediately and after reading the book, I almost feel like I know her. Honestly, for a few minutes it made me miss being 15.
I loved that there were the perfect amount of humor sprinkled throughout; I smiled and laughed a lot while reading this.
Also, the amount of detail is just right. You can easily imagine how the characters are positioned, as well as the scenery, but the author never spends more time on these details than necessary.
The writing style of the diary could have been altered a bit more to reflect the slightly different speech style of 100 years ago. However, the only real complaint I have is that I want more, so hopefully there will be a sequel soon!
Kelly Hall is a very skilled writer and I am definitely a fan.
The author definitely knows how to write for a YA audience; it was very easy for me to get wrapped up in Lily’s world. I couldn’t and wouldn’t stop until I finished! I loved this character almost immediately and after reading the book, I almost feel like I know her. Honestly, for a few minutes it made me miss being 15.
I loved that there were the perfect amount of humor sprinkled throughout; I smiled and laughed a lot while reading this.
Also, the amount of detail is just right. You can easily imagine how the characters are positioned, as well as the scenery, but the author never spends more time on these details than necessary.
The writing style of the diary could have been altered a bit more to reflect the slightly different speech style of 100 years ago. However, the only real complaint I have is that I want more, so hopefully there will be a sequel soon!
Kelly Hall is a very skilled writer and I am definitely a fan.
December 4, 2015
Keep the lights on!!
If you're like me do not, I repeat, DO NOT read this book in the middle of the night in complete darkness! You'll be grabbing your phone and clicking on its comforting glow for fear of shadows! The Legend of the Light Keeper is an easy fun read full of suspense, mystery, and wonder. The young characters are well written and all have their own voice, but Granny is totally my favorite! Talon is a hottie and the romance between the main characters was good, but I had an issue with one aspect of it that I won't spoil here. My personal opinion in no way will deter me from reading the next book, quite the contrary. I'm intrigued as to where Kelly Hall will take their story and can't wait for the next book!
Kelly Hall Author Spotlight and Review
If you're like me do not, I repeat, DO NOT read this book in the middle of the night in complete darkness! You'll be grabbing your phone and clicking on its comforting glow for fear of shadows! The Legend of the Light Keeper is an easy fun read full of suspense, mystery, and wonder. The young characters are well written and all have their own voice, but Granny is totally my favorite! Talon is a hottie and the romance between the main characters was good, but I had an issue with one aspect of it that I won't spoil here. My personal opinion in no way will deter me from reading the next book, quite the contrary. I'm intrigued as to where Kelly Hall will take their story and can't wait for the next book!
Kelly Hall Author Spotlight and Review
March 25, 2015
Originally reviewed on Sara's Books and Things
I really enjoyed this book. Lilly is a wonderful protagonist that goes after what she wants. Be it love or information that she needs, she won't stop until she has it.
Another thing I enjoyed was the dynamic between Lilly and her mom's boyfriend. It's a bit tentative but then again he's the first real father figure she's ever had.
I also really liked her and Talon's relationship. It progresses very naturally and it's extremely easy to root for them despite their circumstances.
I received this book courtesy of NetGalley in exchange for my free and honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. Lilly is a wonderful protagonist that goes after what she wants. Be it love or information that she needs, she won't stop until she has it.
Another thing I enjoyed was the dynamic between Lilly and her mom's boyfriend. It's a bit tentative but then again he's the first real father figure she's ever had.
I also really liked her and Talon's relationship. It progresses very naturally and it's extremely easy to root for them despite their circumstances.
I received this book courtesy of NetGalley in exchange for my free and honest review.
May 19, 2015
This was a great book. I really enjoyed it. It was an interesting take on a local legend. I loved the main character Lily. I thought the author made her very relatable. The story flowed easily and I got engrossed pretty quickly. Talon was very well done and I liked his conflicted emotions. It was funny at times and give me the creepy chills at times. It is great work and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
August 20, 2015
The Legend of the Light Keeper is a chilly tale of mystery, murder, and heartbreak but it is also one of self-discovery, faith, and hope. Combining the spooky aura of legend and real life tragedy, The Legend of the Light Keeper will have you hanging on to every clue, hoping to solve the dizzying puzzle of the Light and its connection to Lily.
5 stars
5 stars
September 1, 2017
Picked this book up at the 2016 Texas Teen Book Festival in Austin, TX. Sounded good. It was really good! I really enjoyed the story line and the characters. Very well written characters that were believable. It was a little supernatural without being over the top. It was nice reading a book about young adults who didn't have crazy extraordinary powers.
If you like young adult with a little supernatural thrown in, this book is for you!
If you like young adult with a little supernatural thrown in, this book is for you!
November 8, 2020
This book is very Cassandra Clare-esque, in that the synopsis references a ‘forbidden love’, which is actually the main character falling in love with her soon-to-be step-brother Talon. (Scoff, Talon, what a name). Not only that, she is then non-consensually kissed by a boy who ends up being her cousin, so there’s a lot of vaguely incestuous behaviour going on in The Legend of the Light Keeper.
Although the mystery aspects of this story is intriguing – there’s a random light which keeps turning up and leaving black smudges everywhere, and Lily is the only person who is able to see that the light is a person – there is far too much focus on the romance. The plot is neglected. Although the setting is well-crafted, there is no adrenaline and the writing is bland. Even though the characters were scared, my heart wasn’t racing, and I was reading this book each night before bed to send myself to sleep.
This review was originally posted on The Bumbling Blogger.
Although the mystery aspects of this story is intriguing – there’s a random light which keeps turning up and leaving black smudges everywhere, and Lily is the only person who is able to see that the light is a person – there is far too much focus on the romance. The plot is neglected. Although the setting is well-crafted, there is no adrenaline and the writing is bland. Even though the characters were scared, my heart wasn’t racing, and I was reading this book each night before bed to send myself to sleep.
This review was originally posted on The Bumbling Blogger.
August 15, 2020
Actual rating is 3.5 stars.
Okay, so I kinda live in the area this book takes place & I have been down Bragg Road (I didn't see anything).
Okay, so I liked the concept of this book. I like that it's based off of a real thing that happens and that the author built on that instead of completely changing it.
But it also seemed kind of predictable? Like Lily all of a sudden noticed how hot her step brother was and that she liked him. And the parents didn't notice that their hormonal 16 & 17 year old children didn't have the hots for eachother? Yeah, I'm not buying that one. And the mom let her daughter go camp out with three teenage boys? I don't care if she is related to 2 of them & the other is gonna be her step brother, that so doesn't happen.
To me the writing was really simple and plain, there was no foreshadowing or any detail. Everything was pretty basic and the storyline was simple.
The action doesn't really happen until about 40 pages in, which is kind of annoying, especially since no major action or suspense happens until about page 100. How can a book that has this plot wait that long?
And then the random magic water through me. And their reactions? You find out that water gives you super strength and speed & all you can do is laugh & test it? Somehow I don't see that happening.
Lily seemed too predictable to me. She was too girly and kind of needy. I hate when the heroine is needy and kind of a damsel in distress.
And the whole being after your step brother thing? Yeah, it kind of grosses me out. I mean, okay, your step brother is hot, but don't go and kiss him! It's not like they were dating before! Did it make anyone else feel icky? I mean, even if they never will be blood related, it's kind of like them dating & living together while they're parents are getting married! That's too gross to me. And they fall in love in a couple weeks?! Come on! They know next to nothing about each other, only that they find the other attractive! And what really kills me is that Talon starts out treating her like a sibling!
This book kind of just confused me & I feel like it had a lot of potential to be amazing, but ended up falling short:/ especially since the reader doesn't learn anything about Lily & her family's powers...they don't even learn about powers until the middle of the book! And all it's called is the light. Sounds creepy to me.
I hope the author can redeem herself in the sequel, but considering how disappointed I was in this one I doubt I'll pick it up.
Okay, so I kinda live in the area this book takes place & I have been down Bragg Road (I didn't see anything).
Okay, so I liked the concept of this book. I like that it's based off of a real thing that happens and that the author built on that instead of completely changing it.
But it also seemed kind of predictable? Like Lily all of a sudden noticed how hot her step brother was and that she liked him. And the parents didn't notice that their hormonal 16 & 17 year old children didn't have the hots for eachother? Yeah, I'm not buying that one. And the mom let her daughter go camp out with three teenage boys? I don't care if she is related to 2 of them & the other is gonna be her step brother, that so doesn't happen.
To me the writing was really simple and plain, there was no foreshadowing or any detail. Everything was pretty basic and the storyline was simple.
The action doesn't really happen until about 40 pages in, which is kind of annoying, especially since no major action or suspense happens until about page 100. How can a book that has this plot wait that long?
And then the random magic water through me. And their reactions? You find out that water gives you super strength and speed & all you can do is laugh & test it? Somehow I don't see that happening.
Lily seemed too predictable to me. She was too girly and kind of needy. I hate when the heroine is needy and kind of a damsel in distress.
And the whole being after your step brother thing? Yeah, it kind of grosses me out. I mean, okay, your step brother is hot, but don't go and kiss him! It's not like they were dating before! Did it make anyone else feel icky? I mean, even if they never will be blood related, it's kind of like them dating & living together while they're parents are getting married! That's too gross to me. And they fall in love in a couple weeks?! Come on! They know next to nothing about each other, only that they find the other attractive! And what really kills me is that Talon starts out treating her like a sibling!
This book kind of just confused me & I feel like it had a lot of potential to be amazing, but ended up falling short:/ especially since the reader doesn't learn anything about Lily & her family's powers...they don't even learn about powers until the middle of the book! And all it's called is the light. Sounds creepy to me.
I hope the author can redeem herself in the sequel, but considering how disappointed I was in this one I doubt I'll pick it up.
May 19, 2015
I won this book as an ebook prize from a Facebook release party for another author. However, I'd heard of the book via posts on Twitter and knew it was one I wanted to read. I'm so glad I won this book because Kelly Hall's "The Legend of the Light Keeper" was quite enjoyable. I read a lot of YA and this story is 4-star worthy in my opinion. Kelly Hall has created likeable and believable characters, an intriguing setting and a story that successfully combined a bit of history with romance and paranormal eeriness.
Short synopsis with no obvious spoilers:
Lily and her mom victims of a hurricane and have lost their home. Story opens with them arriving at their new home located just off a haunted road — a new home that they will share with Lily's soon-to-be new stepfather and stepbrother. Lily and her future stepbrother, Talon, share an attraction despite the fact that soon they will related by their parents' marriage. Toss in their neighbors, the brothers Hunter and Owen, their Granny, a scary old man who may or may not be stealing shovels and then add Lily's unnaturally green eyes, an old diary, and a spooky unexplainable light that may or may not be related to Lily's ability to see creepy, unnatural shadows (that no one else can see) when the lights are out. Mix all those elements together for an interesting romp that gives the reader a few chills plus a some warm romantic moments.
I liked this book. "The Legend of the Light Keeper" kept me entertained from start to finish, although it did have a couple of slow moments about midway. I found myself going back and rereading the pages when author Kelly Hall reveals Lily's heritage because I wanted to be sure I fully understood the connections — this did not disrupt the flow of the book for me, I just needed to have it all clear in my head.
As the first book of a series, "The Legend of the Light Keeper" captured my attention and I definitely want to read the next book. I liked Lily, Talon, Owen and Hunter, and I especially loved Granny. She was my favorite supporting character and I'd love to read more about her younger self.
I definitely recommend Kelly Hall's "The Legend of the Light Keeper" to anyone who enjoys YA paranormal and/or YA paranormal romance.
Short synopsis with no obvious spoilers:
Lily and her mom victims of a hurricane and have lost their home. Story opens with them arriving at their new home located just off a haunted road — a new home that they will share with Lily's soon-to-be new stepfather and stepbrother. Lily and her future stepbrother, Talon, share an attraction despite the fact that soon they will related by their parents' marriage. Toss in their neighbors, the brothers Hunter and Owen, their Granny, a scary old man who may or may not be stealing shovels and then add Lily's unnaturally green eyes, an old diary, and a spooky unexplainable light that may or may not be related to Lily's ability to see creepy, unnatural shadows (that no one else can see) when the lights are out. Mix all those elements together for an interesting romp that gives the reader a few chills plus a some warm romantic moments.
I liked this book. "The Legend of the Light Keeper" kept me entertained from start to finish, although it did have a couple of slow moments about midway. I found myself going back and rereading the pages when author Kelly Hall reveals Lily's heritage because I wanted to be sure I fully understood the connections — this did not disrupt the flow of the book for me, I just needed to have it all clear in my head.
As the first book of a series, "The Legend of the Light Keeper" captured my attention and I definitely want to read the next book. I liked Lily, Talon, Owen and Hunter, and I especially loved Granny. She was my favorite supporting character and I'd love to read more about her younger self.
I definitely recommend Kelly Hall's "The Legend of the Light Keeper" to anyone who enjoys YA paranormal and/or YA paranormal romance.
April 3, 2015
Based on a local Southeast Texas legend, this delightful YA Paranormal novel kept this young at heart reviewer entertained from page one till I closed the cover at the end of the book. There was not two storylines, but three that managed to intertwine their way through the novel as I found myself flipping the pages as quickly as I could read. It was a more than a wild ride on the back of the motor bike as I tried to keep up with the breakneck speed as the teens raced along without thought for life or limb in search of the mystical light that haunted young Hunter’s dreams.
Ms Hall took the time to develop the relationship between her characters. She built layer upon layer between the known and unknown of her plots, adding depth and mystic to the story. Much like a rose, as each petal opened out, a new one was exposed revealing more to the story, and exposing more and more of the beauty of the lovely blossom till you finally saw the flower in its full beauty.
It was a story of family, its ties and its strengths. It was a story of unrequited loved and a love that would not die. It was a story of greed and the downward spiral of its path. Finally, it was a story of joy and hope for what life had to offer and what life could be.
Simply, but well written. A book easily enjoyed by all ages. A mystery, a love story, a para-normal, a legend, but mostly a delightful weekend read.
FOUR STARS
Ms Hall took the time to develop the relationship between her characters. She built layer upon layer between the known and unknown of her plots, adding depth and mystic to the story. Much like a rose, as each petal opened out, a new one was exposed revealing more to the story, and exposing more and more of the beauty of the lovely blossom till you finally saw the flower in its full beauty.
It was a story of family, its ties and its strengths. It was a story of unrequited loved and a love that would not die. It was a story of greed and the downward spiral of its path. Finally, it was a story of joy and hope for what life had to offer and what life could be.
Simply, but well written. A book easily enjoyed by all ages. A mystery, a love story, a para-normal, a legend, but mostly a delightful weekend read.
FOUR STARS
March 29, 2015
I liked this one a lot based on the paranormal aspect of the story. But the whole, hooking up with my step-brother-to-be is a deal breaker for me. I lose a lot of the respect for the characters when that happens. I also, HATE when the parents are not involved in their kids lives because they are wrapped up inside of themselves. And that is a major issue here. Since her mom is engaged and dealing with that, she has little time or interest in dealing with her 16 year old. Umm, I get that you work lady, but still, figure out what your kids are doing each day and that includes trying to hook up with your future stepson!
But I digress. I loved the supernatural element of the light and the shadow and how it impacted Lily. (Which is a great name by the way!) And the connection she immediately felt with Granny made it all the more amazing. (As someone who just met the other half to my family and knowing how immediately I was attached to them, I totally get this!)
Unfortunately though, due to the incest-like love affair and the non-involved parents, I can only give this a 3 star rating. I really liked the amazing details and such for the paranormal experiences, it just irritated me a bit more than I can handle.
But I digress. I loved the supernatural element of the light and the shadow and how it impacted Lily. (Which is a great name by the way!) And the connection she immediately felt with Granny made it all the more amazing. (As someone who just met the other half to my family and knowing how immediately I was attached to them, I totally get this!)
Unfortunately though, due to the incest-like love affair and the non-involved parents, I can only give this a 3 star rating. I really liked the amazing details and such for the paranormal experiences, it just irritated me a bit more than I can handle.
June 26, 2015
Legend of the Light Keeper is the first book in a series by Kelly Hall, a YA work that is of both a paranormal and romantic storyline, but just because it is a YA, that doesn’t mean it won’t make a fine read for those older. I always did enjoy a good ghost story, nothing quite them, and this one is rather good, bound to get better in book 2, when the questions that have gone unanswered here, might just be answered in the next one, but the paranormal storyline arc did feel a little pushed out, with the blossoming romance between Lily & Talon taking more of a center stage, but family is always messed up anyway and this tale is no exception.
Still it is a story that grips you from page one and holds you until you have reached the final page, just like a good book should and being the first of a series, it means more are to follow, more character developments, more twists, and more reveals. What more could you ask for? .
(I received the work from the author, as well as the ARC of Book 2, due to its forthcoming release and honestly I can’t wait to start it.)
4 Stars
Still it is a story that grips you from page one and holds you until you have reached the final page, just like a good book should and being the first of a series, it means more are to follow, more character developments, more twists, and more reveals. What more could you ask for? .
(I received the work from the author, as well as the ARC of Book 2, due to its forthcoming release and honestly I can’t wait to start it.)
4 Stars
April 9, 2015
4.5 Stars!
Awesome! There wasn't much I didn't like about this book. It was fun and hooked me right from the start. I love a good ghost story and this one was definitely a good one!
There was very good character development. I loved both the two main characters Lily and Talon as well as the minor ones, Owen and Hunter. The author did a fantastic job with them. I also really felt like they were teenagers. They acted like teens would act. Some authors get this wrong but this one was spot on.
I loved that there was a touch of historical fiction in there, not enough to turn haters away but just enough for people like me who love it.
There were a few things not explained (or explained well) that I am hoping will be cleared up in the second book, like the shadows that Lily sees.
It was getting a little long and dragged a tad in the middle, but other than than a real great suspenseful read! I am definitely looking forward to the second book. I'm sold!
Awesome! There wasn't much I didn't like about this book. It was fun and hooked me right from the start. I love a good ghost story and this one was definitely a good one!
There was very good character development. I loved both the two main characters Lily and Talon as well as the minor ones, Owen and Hunter. The author did a fantastic job with them. I also really felt like they were teenagers. They acted like teens would act. Some authors get this wrong but this one was spot on.
I loved that there was a touch of historical fiction in there, not enough to turn haters away but just enough for people like me who love it.
There were a few things not explained (or explained well) that I am hoping will be cleared up in the second book, like the shadows that Lily sees.
It was getting a little long and dragged a tad in the middle, but other than than a real great suspenseful read! I am definitely looking forward to the second book. I'm sold!
January 19, 2016
Due to circumstances out of her control, teenager Lily and her mother relocate to a rural area of Texas so her mom can shack up with her fiancee. The fiancee has his own teenager, too, and he happens to be an attractive boy. Lily meets her new neighbors who are also attractive teenage boys. What's a girl to do all summer surrounded by such tempting prospects? Cue the romance, which is about 70% of the book.
The 30% paranormal part revolves around the legends, ghost stories, and history of an abandoned town. Lily's arrival to this area is the catalyst of heightened paranormal activity as she and the boys in her life uncover dark secrets and startling connections that tie the past to the present in dangerous ways.
I enjoyed this quick read and all of the twists along the way.
The 30% paranormal part revolves around the legends, ghost stories, and history of an abandoned town. Lily's arrival to this area is the catalyst of heightened paranormal activity as she and the boys in her life uncover dark secrets and startling connections that tie the past to the present in dangerous ways.
I enjoyed this quick read and all of the twists along the way.
July 26, 2015
Already after reading about this book, every reader knows without a doubt that it will be a classical paranormal YA book. The most interesting for me was the paranormal and ghost storyline, and Kelly Hall in my opinion also very well incorporated a local legend. The character of the heroine corresponds to the idea of girls in this type of books, and its conception by this author, don´t have anything to criticize. Romantic line seemed to me a little bit weaker, but still it is really good read and story nicely passed. I can definitely recommend this book to the readers who like YA paranormal romances.
---I recieved my copy via Netgalley in exchange for honest review.---
---I recieved my copy via Netgalley in exchange for honest review.---
April 21, 2015
The Legend of the Light Keeper by Kelly Hall was as good a read as its cover is beautiful. The characters Lily, Talon, Owen and Hunter will steal your hearts as they look for clues in the woods near their homes.
There was a great balance of mystery, romance and the supernatural to create a dynamic well moving story.
As I found out more about the mystery of the Light, I felt closer to each of the characters. Kelly's writing brought us all through the experience together, and we all come out closely bonded in the end.
I can't wait to see what the next adventure is for the Light Keeper!
There was a great balance of mystery, romance and the supernatural to create a dynamic well moving story.
As I found out more about the mystery of the Light, I felt closer to each of the characters. Kelly's writing brought us all through the experience together, and we all come out closely bonded in the end.
I can't wait to see what the next adventure is for the Light Keeper!
Read
August 12, 2015The Legend of the Light Keeper, by Kelly Hall is a fun read. The light is part of the local legend, but so much more for Lily Jordan. Displaced from her home by a hurricane, and forced into a new location and new relationships by her mother's choice of a new husband, the story of how these new people impact her life as they explore the reality intertwined with the legend. How many of us have seen things from the corner of our eyes, wondering what it might be? Looking forward to the next one. Nice book to end the summer.
March 20, 2016
First time reader of this author and now i am hooked. This was such a great and creative series. i purchased book one first and was hooked after the first page. i then purchased books 2 and three.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this series. after finishing books 1-3, i panicked. i can't wait until book four is published..oh please hurry
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this series. after finishing books 1-3, i panicked. i can't wait until book four is published..oh please hurry
March 20, 2016
I really enjoyed this YA paranormal book. There was ghosts, mystery , intrigue, a love story, history, and even romance. A little something for lovers of several genres.
I felt the flow of the story was very well written. The descriptive passages brought great imagery.
Hall has brought a interesting, fast paced read to the table with this book and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I also really enjoyed the way Hall mixed in a real folk tale/ghost story and history from that atea. Well done!
Jennifer Deese-Author
I felt the flow of the story was very well written. The descriptive passages brought great imagery.
Hall has brought a interesting, fast paced read to the table with this book and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I also really enjoyed the way Hall mixed in a real folk tale/ghost story and history from that atea. Well done!
Jennifer Deese-Author
March 31, 2015
3.5 Stars
The Legend of the Light Keeper is a chilly tale of mystery, murder, and heartbreak but it is also one of self-discovery, faith, and hope. Combining the spooky aura of legend and real life tragedy, The Legend of the Light Keeper will have you hanging on to every clue, hoping to solve the dizzying puzzle of the Light and its connection to Lily.
https://youngadultbookmadness.wordpre...
The Legend of the Light Keeper is a chilly tale of mystery, murder, and heartbreak but it is also one of self-discovery, faith, and hope. Combining the spooky aura of legend and real life tragedy, The Legend of the Light Keeper will have you hanging on to every clue, hoping to solve the dizzying puzzle of the Light and its connection to Lily.
https://youngadultbookmadness.wordpre...
March 22, 2015
It was okay but I didn't find the zoosh that I wanted. The plot had potential, but the atmosphere was sacrificed by telling the narrative in a hurry. There was something missing. Almost there, but not quite.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
April 25, 2015
I loved this book so much! It is a gripping and emotional YA paranormal story that combines ghost-stories and romance. Check out my video review of this awesome book here: https://youtu.be/ZDudizv8tmM
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