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Know Your Enemy
Nicole is desperate to leave Silverlake, the small town she's spent her whole life in, and her plans for escape and her future career are all falling into place. But when the local heartthrob Aiden points out the one thing holding her back, Nicole’s response sets off a chain of bad decisions that leaves her second guessing everything she ever knew about herself.
Aiden may be devilishly handsome with a scent that gives Nic heart palpitations, but deep down she knows he is trouble. Before long, she finds herself sitting in a stolen Porsche with her hand on his knee and blood on her shoes. Does Nic have what it takes to survive in this unknown world, or is she letting her desires ruin her life?
Aiden may be devilishly handsome with a scent that gives Nic heart palpitations, but deep down she knows he is trouble. Before long, she finds herself sitting in a stolen Porsche with her hand on his knee and blood on her shoes. Does Nic have what it takes to survive in this unknown world, or is she letting her desires ruin her life?
208 pages, Paperback
First published August 19, 2015
3 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Tasman Anderson
1 book11 followersTasman Anderson is an Australian author, writer and award-winning journalist. She has written for the Gold Coast Bulletin, Youth Journalism International, Q Magazine, Teen Voices and Loving Logan.
When she’s not spending her time ignoring the sunlight and writing young adult fiction, she’s most likely binging on Netflix and going on sushi dates with her best friends. Know Your Enemy is Tasman’s first novel.
When she’s not spending her time ignoring the sunlight and writing young adult fiction, she’s most likely binging on Netflix and going on sushi dates with her best friends. Know Your Enemy is Tasman’s first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 13, 2015
This could be a hit with teens. It has everything – action, adventure, high crime, the mob, a brooding bad boy, an intelligent (somewhat naive) heroine, a bunch of high school kids who have no idea what they’re in for. It’s a recipe for madness – teens will probably think the best kind of madness.
I usually only read YA books that are epic, urban or paranormal fantasy, so reviewing this was a bit outside my comfort zone. It’s set in the present day in what is meant to be a dead end town. I really wasn’t sure if I’d like it, but by the end I found I enjoyed it and I can categorically say that most teen readers will love it.
The novel centres around Nicole who is finishing High School and dreaming of studying journalism at Murdoch University. She is the smart girl – the good girl. Yet through a series of stupid choices, in order to fit in, winds up involved in criminal activities, which have dire consequences. Her life is irrevocably altered.
Anderson’s writing has a hint of Aussie vernacular but not so much that it won’t appeal internationally. She has created a unique teen voice within Know Your Enemy. I found the dialogue and character creation to be realistic, so much so that at times I found myself almost yelling at main character as I read- “Don’t be an idiot.” (This had about as much effect as saying the same thing to my teen nieces – nada.)
The set up for the major events is relatively quick, which is good. However, I did initially find Nicole’s foray into crime to be a little too puerile for her age, but perhaps it’s appropriate given her character at this point has never done a thing wrong and this is her first attempt at being “badass.” The love interest in the novel is the mysterious Aiden. I did think his character could have been developed a little more and a tiny more back history between Nic and Aiden woven in.
What I did like is that the bad boy isn’t “transformed” by Nic’s love into a shining hero. He has his own twisted sense of morality and remains largely unrepentant for his actions. Bravo to Anderson for not succumbing to the usual tripe of bad boy turns good. (There are some good life lessons here – poor choices, lives altered irrevocably and “No, you won’t change him - leopards don’t change their spots, fall for the bad dude and you’ve got to be prepared for the consequences”– sheesh I’m feeling old!)
Once you reach the car stealing sections of the book the pace ramps up and things go from bad to worse very quickly. (They still made poor choices and I still yelled at them though.) This action packed section won me over. The ending was a little anti-climactic for me, but it does leave the story line open for another adventure.
You can tell by reading this that I became quite involved with the characters, despite the fact that the story wasn’t what I would usually choose. That is a testament to Anderson’s writing and characters. Sometimes they were just too real for me.
I think tween and YA teen readers are going to thoroughly enjoy this book.
Four stars.
I usually only read YA books that are epic, urban or paranormal fantasy, so reviewing this was a bit outside my comfort zone. It’s set in the present day in what is meant to be a dead end town. I really wasn’t sure if I’d like it, but by the end I found I enjoyed it and I can categorically say that most teen readers will love it.
The novel centres around Nicole who is finishing High School and dreaming of studying journalism at Murdoch University. She is the smart girl – the good girl. Yet through a series of stupid choices, in order to fit in, winds up involved in criminal activities, which have dire consequences. Her life is irrevocably altered.
Anderson’s writing has a hint of Aussie vernacular but not so much that it won’t appeal internationally. She has created a unique teen voice within Know Your Enemy. I found the dialogue and character creation to be realistic, so much so that at times I found myself almost yelling at main character as I read- “Don’t be an idiot.” (This had about as much effect as saying the same thing to my teen nieces – nada.)
The set up for the major events is relatively quick, which is good. However, I did initially find Nicole’s foray into crime to be a little too puerile for her age, but perhaps it’s appropriate given her character at this point has never done a thing wrong and this is her first attempt at being “badass.” The love interest in the novel is the mysterious Aiden. I did think his character could have been developed a little more and a tiny more back history between Nic and Aiden woven in.
What I did like is that the bad boy isn’t “transformed” by Nic’s love into a shining hero. He has his own twisted sense of morality and remains largely unrepentant for his actions. Bravo to Anderson for not succumbing to the usual tripe of bad boy turns good. (There are some good life lessons here – poor choices, lives altered irrevocably and “No, you won’t change him - leopards don’t change their spots, fall for the bad dude and you’ve got to be prepared for the consequences”– sheesh I’m feeling old!)
Once you reach the car stealing sections of the book the pace ramps up and things go from bad to worse very quickly. (They still made poor choices and I still yelled at them though.) This action packed section won me over. The ending was a little anti-climactic for me, but it does leave the story line open for another adventure.
You can tell by reading this that I became quite involved with the characters, despite the fact that the story wasn’t what I would usually choose. That is a testament to Anderson’s writing and characters. Sometimes they were just too real for me.
I think tween and YA teen readers are going to thoroughly enjoy this book.
Four stars.
September 9, 2015
Know Your Enemy is a gripping story of how one decision can quickly spiral out of control and change your life in a way you never imagined.
Nicole is living in a small town and dreaming of getting accepted to college to escape the quiet life that she's always known. Her dream career is to study crime journalism and she's not going to let anyone stand in her way of being accepted to her perfect university. She soon begins to question her life when the local heartthrob, Aiden, teases her for being boring and allows her best friend to convince her to be more "wild".
Nicole is a little hard to relate to at the beginning as it feels like she is just making a huge mistake by trying to prove people wrong about her in the way that she does, but she is young and going through a rebellious phase which is understandable. Whilst I might not agree with her decision making process, I can understand why she would go down that route.
Aiden is very much the dark and mysterious type. We don't know a lot about him and I was never quite sure if he could be 100% trusted. He is initially presented as the typical popular guy: gorgeous and a bit arrogant.
Little bits of information do begin to filter through and we learn that there is another side to him that isn't always on display. He is definitely an intriguing character and it would be great to discover even more about him in the sequel.
I like that the blurb is quite mysterious, with only a snippet of what happens, as I wasn't expecting the route the plot took. It's a surprise that works well, I think, as the not knowing what's going to happen next keeps the pace fast and exciting. Nicole's decision quickly spirals into a much bigger situation and she gets herself into one big mess with no easy way out. We meet a lot of shady characters and there are plenty of twists to keep you on your toes.
The romance is paced nicely and I liked the background characters too. I enjoyed the style of writing and it flows and reads very well. Whilst I couldn't always relate to Nicole, the plot was intriguing enough to keep me reading and I'd like to see what happens next in the sequel.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author Tasman Anderson and Odyssey Books.
Nicole is living in a small town and dreaming of getting accepted to college to escape the quiet life that she's always known. Her dream career is to study crime journalism and she's not going to let anyone stand in her way of being accepted to her perfect university. She soon begins to question her life when the local heartthrob, Aiden, teases her for being boring and allows her best friend to convince her to be more "wild".
Nicole is a little hard to relate to at the beginning as it feels like she is just making a huge mistake by trying to prove people wrong about her in the way that she does, but she is young and going through a rebellious phase which is understandable. Whilst I might not agree with her decision making process, I can understand why she would go down that route.
Aiden is very much the dark and mysterious type. We don't know a lot about him and I was never quite sure if he could be 100% trusted. He is initially presented as the typical popular guy: gorgeous and a bit arrogant.
Little bits of information do begin to filter through and we learn that there is another side to him that isn't always on display. He is definitely an intriguing character and it would be great to discover even more about him in the sequel.
I like that the blurb is quite mysterious, with only a snippet of what happens, as I wasn't expecting the route the plot took. It's a surprise that works well, I think, as the not knowing what's going to happen next keeps the pace fast and exciting. Nicole's decision quickly spirals into a much bigger situation and she gets herself into one big mess with no easy way out. We meet a lot of shady characters and there are plenty of twists to keep you on your toes.
The romance is paced nicely and I liked the background characters too. I enjoyed the style of writing and it flows and reads very well. Whilst I couldn't always relate to Nicole, the plot was intriguing enough to keep me reading and I'd like to see what happens next in the sequel.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author Tasman Anderson and Odyssey Books.
August 26, 2015
3/5 Stars
(I received this digital copy on a read to review basis. Many thanks to Tasman Anderson and Odyssey Books.)
I won't say too much in regards to what actually happens in the story as I do believe it is important to go in with an unbiased view when you can. When people state in their reviews what happens in the book, it can ruin it for many people. But what the story does have is: how quickly a little lie can very quickly turn against you, and how you end up in boiling hot water.
When I read the blurb of the story, I had no idea how the book was going to end. We have our main character Nicole; who at a young age, desperately wants to leave the town she's always lived in, and to go to university to study her dream carer Journalism. As the blurb depicts, she somehow manages to land herself in a stolen Porsche with blood on her shoes. Whoa! So this immediately grabbed my attention and I needed to know more.
I wasn't sure how the story was going to turn out to be honest. What started off as a dumb idea/prank between a couple of silly teenage girls, very steadily turns into something they can't get themselves out of and because of their actions, their very lives are in danger! Who knew the silly old boring town of Silverlake isn't actually boring. Far from it people.
For me as the story played out, I found myself not really able to connect with the characters. Specifically talking about Nicole and Aiden.
Nicole I found to be a self centred, silly young girl who at times didn't seem to fully realise the enormity of what was actually happening around and to her. Yes it is shown how she feels and she does wonder whether it's going to be too much, but her actions and attitudes show, that she really isn't able to get her priorities right. Too many times I wanted to shake her silly and say "Really?! You want to prove to yourself and others that your not boring, that you want to do something decent with your life, then your going the complete opposite way. Do you have any idea of the consequences of what your doing you silly silly girl?!".
With Aiden, much was left unsaid about this young man in order to add an air of mystery about him. I did find his style of flirting very cringe worthy at times and I wanted to know more about him on a personal level. There wasn't much to go on to in order to know him better on a personal level. That and he seemed to put himself above others that were involved. I can't stand people like that.
Pieces that would have helped me connect to the characters would have been knowing the full history between Aiden and Nicole. I understand and know of the incident that happened between them both that caused Nicole to 'hate' and distrust Aiden, but I wanted just more than that. It would have also helped if there were descriptions of the characters themselves, as I did find myself struggling to fully know in my mind what they really looked. Perhaps another reason why I couldn't fully connect to the characters.
Now don't think that I didn't like the book because I did. The style of writing and language used was smooth which helped the story to flow extremely well. What I didn't like however, were the choices made by these characters and how little regard they had to anyone but themselves. The emotions that I came to discover were those of disbelief, fear that something had to and was going to wrong, and curiosity as to how they were actually going to pull these stunts off without being caught! There was also many questions that was left unsaid and because of this, I felt that this book would have gained from these questions being answered, thus giving the book that extra oomph.
Did I connect to or like the characters? No. But that being said, the emotions that I did have for them shows how well written the characters did come off and that says something!
Would I recommend this? Yes. I would say the book would be particularly enjoyed by 13-17 year olds.
Overall a well written story that goes to show how quickly one action can escalate into something more dangerous than anticipated.
(I received this digital copy on a read to review basis. Many thanks to Tasman Anderson and Odyssey Books.)
I won't say too much in regards to what actually happens in the story as I do believe it is important to go in with an unbiased view when you can. When people state in their reviews what happens in the book, it can ruin it for many people. But what the story does have is: how quickly a little lie can very quickly turn against you, and how you end up in boiling hot water.
When I read the blurb of the story, I had no idea how the book was going to end. We have our main character Nicole; who at a young age, desperately wants to leave the town she's always lived in, and to go to university to study her dream carer Journalism. As the blurb depicts, she somehow manages to land herself in a stolen Porsche with blood on her shoes. Whoa! So this immediately grabbed my attention and I needed to know more.
I wasn't sure how the story was going to turn out to be honest. What started off as a dumb idea/prank between a couple of silly teenage girls, very steadily turns into something they can't get themselves out of and because of their actions, their very lives are in danger! Who knew the silly old boring town of Silverlake isn't actually boring. Far from it people.
For me as the story played out, I found myself not really able to connect with the characters. Specifically talking about Nicole and Aiden.
Nicole I found to be a self centred, silly young girl who at times didn't seem to fully realise the enormity of what was actually happening around and to her. Yes it is shown how she feels and she does wonder whether it's going to be too much, but her actions and attitudes show, that she really isn't able to get her priorities right. Too many times I wanted to shake her silly and say "Really?! You want to prove to yourself and others that your not boring, that you want to do something decent with your life, then your going the complete opposite way. Do you have any idea of the consequences of what your doing you silly silly girl?!".
With Aiden, much was left unsaid about this young man in order to add an air of mystery about him. I did find his style of flirting very cringe worthy at times and I wanted to know more about him on a personal level. There wasn't much to go on to in order to know him better on a personal level. That and he seemed to put himself above others that were involved. I can't stand people like that.
Pieces that would have helped me connect to the characters would have been knowing the full history between Aiden and Nicole. I understand and know of the incident that happened between them both that caused Nicole to 'hate' and distrust Aiden, but I wanted just more than that. It would have also helped if there were descriptions of the characters themselves, as I did find myself struggling to fully know in my mind what they really looked. Perhaps another reason why I couldn't fully connect to the characters.
Now don't think that I didn't like the book because I did. The style of writing and language used was smooth which helped the story to flow extremely well. What I didn't like however, were the choices made by these characters and how little regard they had to anyone but themselves. The emotions that I came to discover were those of disbelief, fear that something had to and was going to wrong, and curiosity as to how they were actually going to pull these stunts off without being caught! There was also many questions that was left unsaid and because of this, I felt that this book would have gained from these questions being answered, thus giving the book that extra oomph.
Did I connect to or like the characters? No. But that being said, the emotions that I did have for them shows how well written the characters did come off and that says something!
Would I recommend this? Yes. I would say the book would be particularly enjoyed by 13-17 year olds.
Overall a well written story that goes to show how quickly one action can escalate into something more dangerous than anticipated.
September 14, 2016
I approached this story with the preconception there would be misunderstandings between a couple of starry-eyed people and that it would all get neatly sorted out.
Those illusions vanished faster than a stolen Porsche.
Nicole yearns to leave her dull town. During the uneasy weeks as she waits for her chance to enter university she tries shop lifting to lift her standing with friend Libby. She also hopes to fire up her reflection in Aiden's amber eyes. When she's pressured into something deeper, though, you fear this could go badly. But how badly, and for who? Some one is an enemy. Some one is lying. Twists and turns just draw you on as things get ever darker for Nicole.
Those illusions vanished faster than a stolen Porsche.
Nicole yearns to leave her dull town. During the uneasy weeks as she waits for her chance to enter university she tries shop lifting to lift her standing with friend Libby. She also hopes to fire up her reflection in Aiden's amber eyes. When she's pressured into something deeper, though, you fear this could go badly. But how badly, and for who? Some one is an enemy. Some one is lying. Twists and turns just draw you on as things get ever darker for Nicole.
November 4, 2015
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I haven't really watched many heist/mob movies, nor have I read a book until now with the setting of Australia. So Know Your Enemy was a pleasant surprise. The movie I'd most compare it to - True Romance, a Quentin Tarantino work. Both have the story of a heist gone wrong, and a romance that blooms in during all the trouble. There were many twists and turns in this book, and it was a quick read.
I haven't been reading many standalones, and this was a nice contemporary standalone!
4 stars.
I haven't really watched many heist/mob movies, nor have I read a book until now with the setting of Australia. So Know Your Enemy was a pleasant surprise. The movie I'd most compare it to - True Romance, a Quentin Tarantino work. Both have the story of a heist gone wrong, and a romance that blooms in during all the trouble. There were many twists and turns in this book, and it was a quick read.
I haven't been reading many standalones, and this was a nice contemporary standalone!
4 stars.
August 25, 2015
During the initial chapters I found myself hesitant, simply because I was having a hard time picturing the scenes in my mind as I read them. However, that quickly diminished as the story unfolded.
What impresses me most about Know Your Enemy is the beautifully written characters. It was so easy to put myself in the position of Nicole, to really feel her emotions and thoughts. I'm sure all women can relate with the inner turmoil of the heart verses brain, especially in the teenage years. (And with a handsome bad boy)
Instantly, I was seized by the character of Aiden. Upon his introduction, the story, the characters, the feelings all came to life. The passion between he and Nicole had me smiling like an idiot.
I also found it refreshing the development in the relationship between the two; It was very tactfully built up throughout the book, which only further added to the passion and authenticity.
Throughout the book, the unique and original story only gets better and better. I read the entire book in just four hours, so it's safe to say I couldn't put it down. What I really loved was how the intensity of the story begins very early and stays throughout the entire book. There were no dull or boring points that made me want to skip ahead, which I have a horrible habit of doing!
All in all, I loved the book! It was absolutely fantastic, and I can't wait to see what Tasman Anderson has instore for us in the future!
What impresses me most about Know Your Enemy is the beautifully written characters. It was so easy to put myself in the position of Nicole, to really feel her emotions and thoughts. I'm sure all women can relate with the inner turmoil of the heart verses brain, especially in the teenage years. (And with a handsome bad boy)
Instantly, I was seized by the character of Aiden. Upon his introduction, the story, the characters, the feelings all came to life. The passion between he and Nicole had me smiling like an idiot.
I also found it refreshing the development in the relationship between the two; It was very tactfully built up throughout the book, which only further added to the passion and authenticity.
Throughout the book, the unique and original story only gets better and better. I read the entire book in just four hours, so it's safe to say I couldn't put it down. What I really loved was how the intensity of the story begins very early and stays throughout the entire book. There were no dull or boring points that made me want to skip ahead, which I have a horrible habit of doing!
All in all, I loved the book! It was absolutely fantastic, and I can't wait to see what Tasman Anderson has instore for us in the future!
July 17, 2016
I’ve noticed that many books aimed at young readers and the coming-of-age audience often fall short of capturing that defining, true voice of the generation that the book encompasses. I feel that author Tasman Anderson has definitely taken the time to construct the book in a way that really reflects the unique ‘voice’ and feelings that teenagers experience, as it really shows quite passionately throughout many scenes in the book and even in regard to the undertone of the writing style. Beyond this, I think that the characters have all been crafted in a way that makes them seem very dynamic and realistic – they don’t feel ‘forced’ or bland whatsoever, and they all seem to stand out in their own unique ways (this is also true with their interactions and chemistry between each other).
As for the plot itself, I would consider it to be very original and creative while also staying true to the defining, classic elements of the genre. The author has clearly experimented a little with YA genre, and I think the end result has turned out to be an admirable story that will prove to be a refreshingly new and much-needed addition to the genre. For pure entertainment value, the book stands strong in its own right due to the fast-paced, immersive and gripping nature of the writing style but, most importantly in my opinion, there is also a strong underlying theme and message that I think many young readers will be able to relate to and even find parallels to their own lives. Overall, “Know Your Enemy” has given me a great first impression of the author and I hope she continues to keep up the good work. I look forward to seeing more in the future.
As for the plot itself, I would consider it to be very original and creative while also staying true to the defining, classic elements of the genre. The author has clearly experimented a little with YA genre, and I think the end result has turned out to be an admirable story that will prove to be a refreshingly new and much-needed addition to the genre. For pure entertainment value, the book stands strong in its own right due to the fast-paced, immersive and gripping nature of the writing style but, most importantly in my opinion, there is also a strong underlying theme and message that I think many young readers will be able to relate to and even find parallels to their own lives. Overall, “Know Your Enemy” has given me a great first impression of the author and I hope she continues to keep up the good work. I look forward to seeing more in the future.
September 13, 2015
Looking for a fast-paced book with a killer storyline? Well, Know Your Enemy is where it's at.
For a debut book, Know Your Enemy is an engaging, quick read. The pages are crammed with action, and dripping with suspense. I was left reading this stunner into the wee hours of the morning.
However due to the fast-pace of the novel, I feel I only had a superficial understanding of the characters and their surroundings. Although teenagers can be incredibly rash, I felt that at the beginning the stakes weren't high enough to justify Nic's actions. And, at times, I was lost in white space, not grounded in the setting. With a little more character description and extra anchor points to draw me into the surroundings, I feel I would have felt a stronger connection to these intriguing characters.
Know Your Enemy's lively dialogue had me engaged in the banging storyline. Nic and Libby's mannerisms are fun, and Nic and Aiden's Bonnie and Clyde relationship is adorable. I found myself grinning at Nic's feisty comebacks, Aiden's cheesy charm, and the sleek car references. I was caught up in the action scenes; this book's turbo-charged pace will have you constantly guessing what's around the next bend.
Know Your Enemy will take your night, commute, or chill-time from 0-100 in a matter of pages. Rev your engines, and get into Know Your Enemy—a stunning story with a killer storyline.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author Tasman Anderson and Odyssey Books.
For a debut book, Know Your Enemy is an engaging, quick read. The pages are crammed with action, and dripping with suspense. I was left reading this stunner into the wee hours of the morning.
However due to the fast-pace of the novel, I feel I only had a superficial understanding of the characters and their surroundings. Although teenagers can be incredibly rash, I felt that at the beginning the stakes weren't high enough to justify Nic's actions. And, at times, I was lost in white space, not grounded in the setting. With a little more character description and extra anchor points to draw me into the surroundings, I feel I would have felt a stronger connection to these intriguing characters.
Know Your Enemy's lively dialogue had me engaged in the banging storyline. Nic and Libby's mannerisms are fun, and Nic and Aiden's Bonnie and Clyde relationship is adorable. I found myself grinning at Nic's feisty comebacks, Aiden's cheesy charm, and the sleek car references. I was caught up in the action scenes; this book's turbo-charged pace will have you constantly guessing what's around the next bend.
Know Your Enemy will take your night, commute, or chill-time from 0-100 in a matter of pages. Rev your engines, and get into Know Your Enemy—a stunning story with a killer storyline.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author Tasman Anderson and Odyssey Books.
February 25, 2016
As a debut Young Adult author, Tasman Anderson hits the nail on the head with Know Your Enemy. While dealing with rather adult themes such as crime, conspiracy, and blackmail, Anderson reals it in to fit the reader and keeps them glued.
Nicole is an average teenager with a thirst to get out of a dead end town. When she is forced to prove herself in a harmless prank she inevitably changes her study-driven life. With the town’s bad boy Aiden and her best friend Libby by her side she is forced to make gut decisions as she is thrown into the world of mobs, guns, and, fast cars.
The novel is an easy read and flows perfectly. Know Your Enemy is a book that will make the hours fly by without notice. For starters the characters are understandable and relatable. Aiden has a front to keep while he battles his own demons, Nicole is a mastermind struggling in a nothing town, and Libby is trying to find her place in a messy life. The growth the characters make, whether it brings them out of their shell or that they retreat further in, is rolled out across the twisting plot. Nothing the characters encounter can be foreseen: the plot is fast-paced with turns that change everything and everyone has someone they are trying to protect but just like the real world, not everyone can be saved.
An excellent first novel!
Nicole is an average teenager with a thirst to get out of a dead end town. When she is forced to prove herself in a harmless prank she inevitably changes her study-driven life. With the town’s bad boy Aiden and her best friend Libby by her side she is forced to make gut decisions as she is thrown into the world of mobs, guns, and, fast cars.
The novel is an easy read and flows perfectly. Know Your Enemy is a book that will make the hours fly by without notice. For starters the characters are understandable and relatable. Aiden has a front to keep while he battles his own demons, Nicole is a mastermind struggling in a nothing town, and Libby is trying to find her place in a messy life. The growth the characters make, whether it brings them out of their shell or that they retreat further in, is rolled out across the twisting plot. Nothing the characters encounter can be foreseen: the plot is fast-paced with turns that change everything and everyone has someone they are trying to protect but just like the real world, not everyone can be saved.
An excellent first novel!
August 29, 2015
I really enjoyed it! I think Tasman writes really well and I did look forward to getting back to reading the book each night.
Some more character description would have been great, as I personally love to imagine and really get to know the characters I'm reading about and I really didn't find enough of that during this read, especially the 'extras' like Dom & Sasha. Getting to know more about 'the mob' would have been great too.
Although the story was interesting and even exciting at times, it lacked some depth and explanation. There could have been heaps more written to bulk up and create more flow as some of the chapters end abruptly leaving me with an incomplete or something missing kind of feeling.
I thought the references to movies & games etc was really clever and references to general life, school etc was on point and believable.
I'm not sure if this is your first book Tasman but if it is you have done really well! Congratulations.
Overall, it's an easy, enjoyable read and definitely suited to young teens.
Some more character description would have been great, as I personally love to imagine and really get to know the characters I'm reading about and I really didn't find enough of that during this read, especially the 'extras' like Dom & Sasha. Getting to know more about 'the mob' would have been great too.
Although the story was interesting and even exciting at times, it lacked some depth and explanation. There could have been heaps more written to bulk up and create more flow as some of the chapters end abruptly leaving me with an incomplete or something missing kind of feeling.
I thought the references to movies & games etc was really clever and references to general life, school etc was on point and believable.
I'm not sure if this is your first book Tasman but if it is you have done really well! Congratulations.
Overall, it's an easy, enjoyable read and definitely suited to young teens.
September 4, 2015
Words cannot describe how much I loved this book. The characters are relatable to many young readers and the story line is so interesting and keeps the reader on edge. Throughout this book, I laughed, I cried and I cringed at some of the awkward moments Nic went through. I would highly recommend this book to many young adult readers and can't wait to see what the talented author, Tasman Anderson, Comes up with next!
Oh and I am in love with Aiden! Most amazing character, cleverly constructed, at first I didn't like him but I have fallen for another fictional character.
Oh and I am in love with Aiden! Most amazing character, cleverly constructed, at first I didn't like him but I have fallen for another fictional character.
September 15, 2015
I wasn't sure if this was a book I would enjoy at first, especially as it is aimed for an age group much younger than me! However I am delighted to say I really enjoyed the ride and the read. Well done Tasman, your target market will love this and I can see the next book in the story already forming...and I will be waiting to see what Aiden and Nic get up to next
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March 23, 2022really good book, The cover is nice the writing genre is pure.
October 1, 2015
"We're going burning." Australian writer, journalist and author, Tasman Anderson's first novel, Know Your Enemy is a really good read! It was fast-paced, high action, and engaging - a top job for a debut novel! To be honest, my favourite character was Libby; with Aiden being a close second (one to add to the fictional crush list). Not too often I find myself loving the 'best friend', but Libby played an essential role in my eyes and her character developed really well. Anderson did a fantastic job at creating believable characters with no two people exactly alike. As a teenager with big aspirations myself, I could relate to Nicole and sympathised when her and the group were in trouble.
I enjoyed the style that Know Your Enemy was written in and appreciated the use of tension and showing and not simply telling, which was effective. However, I guessed the 'plot twists' that arose throughout the book including the 'major bombshell'. Although I tend to enjoy chick-lit and dystopian, I do like a good dose of mystery and action and was eager to finish the novel. I don't know much about cars but I loved the detail especially when it came to the upmarket drives! Based on my knowledge, there hasn't been a story like this published yet so it was great to read a fresh storyline that included common yet important themes such as whether the truth really sets you free. I would recommend it to high schoolers looking for something fun and intense but don't mind a little teenage drama and romance. Anderson's, Know Your Enemy is an exciting YA read and I do look forward to reading her future works. I would rate it a 3.5/5 but round that off, it becomes 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author Tasman Anderson and Odyssey Books.
I enjoyed the style that Know Your Enemy was written in and appreciated the use of tension and showing and not simply telling, which was effective. However, I guessed the 'plot twists' that arose throughout the book including the 'major bombshell'. Although I tend to enjoy chick-lit and dystopian, I do like a good dose of mystery and action and was eager to finish the novel. I don't know much about cars but I loved the detail especially when it came to the upmarket drives! Based on my knowledge, there hasn't been a story like this published yet so it was great to read a fresh storyline that included common yet important themes such as whether the truth really sets you free. I would recommend it to high schoolers looking for something fun and intense but don't mind a little teenage drama and romance. Anderson's, Know Your Enemy is an exciting YA read and I do look forward to reading her future works. I would rate it a 3.5/5 but round that off, it becomes 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author Tasman Anderson and Odyssey Books.
December 14, 2015
‘Silverlake was a total suckfest of a town’, the opening line of Know Your Enemy by Tasman Anderson. An opening line that had me smiling and left me feeling I was in for a down to earth read I was going to love.
Know Your Enemy is a young adult novel that will not disappoint. From the first line onwards I was smiling, giggling and at times a little worried for the characters. There was not a minute of Know Your Enemy that I did not love. It has everything a teenager with relate too and love, from high school antics, to crime, adventure, hunky guys and unsure girls, all set within a town that is said to have nothing to offer.
Know Your Enemy jumps straight into it, leaving you no time to take a breath. I engaged with the characters instantly, feeling as though I was a teenager all over again. There is nothing that would give you any hint that this book was written by anyone older than their teenage years. Tasman Anderson writes with a young addictive style that flows beautifully, twisting and turning, keeping you engaged and mesmerized.
Tasman Anderson is an Australian YA author one should keep their eye on. Know Your Enemy is her first book but there will be many more to follow. Tasman is not new to the writing world. Her website tells us that she is a member of the University of Queensland’s Journalism and Communication Society ( JACS) as well as the Australian Crime Writers Association (ACWA) and the Gold Coast Writer’s Association. She has received awards for her journalism, having been published in both local and international publications.
I can only highly recommend Know Your Enemy by Tasman Anderson. Even those who are not normally YA readers are sure to love this little gem of a novel.
Know Your Enemy is a young adult novel that will not disappoint. From the first line onwards I was smiling, giggling and at times a little worried for the characters. There was not a minute of Know Your Enemy that I did not love. It has everything a teenager with relate too and love, from high school antics, to crime, adventure, hunky guys and unsure girls, all set within a town that is said to have nothing to offer.
Know Your Enemy jumps straight into it, leaving you no time to take a breath. I engaged with the characters instantly, feeling as though I was a teenager all over again. There is nothing that would give you any hint that this book was written by anyone older than their teenage years. Tasman Anderson writes with a young addictive style that flows beautifully, twisting and turning, keeping you engaged and mesmerized.
Tasman Anderson is an Australian YA author one should keep their eye on. Know Your Enemy is her first book but there will be many more to follow. Tasman is not new to the writing world. Her website tells us that she is a member of the University of Queensland’s Journalism and Communication Society ( JACS) as well as the Australian Crime Writers Association (ACWA) and the Gold Coast Writer’s Association. She has received awards for her journalism, having been published in both local and international publications.
I can only highly recommend Know Your Enemy by Tasman Anderson. Even those who are not normally YA readers are sure to love this little gem of a novel.
August 26, 2015
I originally found this book through a random browse on Amazon and I have to say, I'm glad I did.
While I don't usualy read young fiction, I did grab this book because of it's description. The idea of a modern day heist book was fantastic for me- I've always enjoyed the Ocean's movies.
Nicole is a wonderful character. She seems to want to be grown up but can't quite shake the immaturity that comes with being young. Her best friend Libby is quite manipulative and reminds me a lot of the mean girls that were at my high school.
While I can't say this book would be enjoyed by all audiences (it is for teenagers after all), I do think it would be great for the young ones. My niece hasn't stopped reading it since I gave it to her and you never see her away from her fantasy books.
Overall, I say this book would be perfect for teenagers. I'm in my forties and found that there was a lot of language I didn't understand but it has been a while since I was 15 :-).
I will give the book five stars though because it was nicely written and quite sassy.
While I don't usualy read young fiction, I did grab this book because of it's description. The idea of a modern day heist book was fantastic for me- I've always enjoyed the Ocean's movies.
Nicole is a wonderful character. She seems to want to be grown up but can't quite shake the immaturity that comes with being young. Her best friend Libby is quite manipulative and reminds me a lot of the mean girls that were at my high school.
While I can't say this book would be enjoyed by all audiences (it is for teenagers after all), I do think it would be great for the young ones. My niece hasn't stopped reading it since I gave it to her and you never see her away from her fantasy books.
Overall, I say this book would be perfect for teenagers. I'm in my forties and found that there was a lot of language I didn't understand but it has been a while since I was 15 :-).
I will give the book five stars though because it was nicely written and quite sassy.
September 11, 2015
“Know Your Enemy”, started off as a sweet, care-free teenage life story. Atleast that’s what I thought it was when I got into this book. My favorite character in this book is Libby, Nicole’s best friend. I liked her from the beginning itself. She was the carefree, problem inducing typical teenager. Her sense of adventure kick started Nicole’s adventure that ended up changing her life.
Read my complete review- here
This is nice read for a weekend. :) :D Light and with a lesson. :)
Because everybody needs a reminder on how some decisions can turn out and change not only your’s but someone else’s life too.
Read my complete review- here
This is nice read for a weekend. :) :D Light and with a lesson. :)
Because everybody needs a reminder on how some decisions can turn out and change not only your’s but someone else’s life too.
September 22, 2015
I received this book via netgalley in exchange for a honest review, thanks to tasman and odyssey books. This review is late due to my child's ill health, so I didn't get to read it as quick as I wanted.
Firstly this is the first book I've read by tasman, I wasn't sure what I was letting myself in for when I requested this book but I was pleasantly surprised. its different from other books I've read. It really stood out. The plot line and the ending wasn't what I expected, it really amazed me. The characters were well developed and the writing style was great. It had humour and a little suspense and I loved it.
A book not to be missed,
Firstly this is the first book I've read by tasman, I wasn't sure what I was letting myself in for when I requested this book but I was pleasantly surprised. its different from other books I've read. It really stood out. The plot line and the ending wasn't what I expected, it really amazed me. The characters were well developed and the writing style was great. It had humour and a little suspense and I loved it.
A book not to be missed,
December 8, 2015
I was given this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway. It wasn't the greatest book I have ever read, but I did enjoy it. I think the main thing I would say is that the story wasn't believable. I think it could have been a great book (I like the idea that one small decision can change everything) but it needed to be a much longer book or spread over a few books, I just think that the amount that happened in such a short time where a good girl turned bad, made it hard to believe.
September 25, 2023
This book is so amazing, I read it twice. The characters were incredibly fun to read and I absolutely loved Nicole. Her relationship with Aiden was done at a pace that was believable.
I can't wait for the sequel!
I can't wait for the sequel!
September 13, 2015
Know your enemy is such a great read, it's relatable to anyone whose ever dealt with the good and bad consequences of a questionable decision. It's fun, exciting & will leave you wanting more!
July 19, 2016
I am a mother of two children I have read know your enemy and it was a good read the author has a great imagination and it would make a great teenage movie
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