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Overexposed
In the tiny town of Willowspring, just about nothing ever happens except for layoffs, hockey games, and your average melodramatic teenage angst.
But that was before.
Vi, Ashley, and Macy are just trying to make it through the school year without one more humiliation when they team up for a simple photography assignment: create a story through a series of photographs. Can't be too much trouble, right?
Wrong.
The shutterbugs happen upon Willowspring High School's darkest secret. When everything around them starts to crumble after trying to do the right thing, their only hope is to stick together.
But that was before.
Vi, Ashley, and Macy are just trying to make it through the school year without one more humiliation when they team up for a simple photography assignment: create a story through a series of photographs. Can't be too much trouble, right?
Wrong.
The shutterbugs happen upon Willowspring High School's darkest secret. When everything around them starts to crumble after trying to do the right thing, their only hope is to stick together.
- GenresYoung AdultContemporary
ebook
First published May 20, 2013
330 people want to read
About the author
Adrianne James
12 books149 followersGrowing up, Adrianne couldn't get her hands on enough books to satisfy her need for the make believe. If she finished a novel and didn't have a new one ready and waiting for her, she began to create her own tales of magic and wonder. Now, as an adult, books still make up majority of her free time, and now her tales get written down to be shared with the world.
During the day, Adrianne uses her camera to capture life's stories for clients of all ages and at night, after her two children are tucked in bed; she devotes herself to her written work. Adrianne is living the life she always wanted, surrounded by art and beauty, the written word and a loving family.
As a young adult and new adult author, Adrianne James has plans to bring stories of growing characters, a little romance, and perhaps a little magic and mythology down the line for her readers to enjoy.
During the day, Adrianne uses her camera to capture life's stories for clients of all ages and at night, after her two children are tucked in bed; she devotes herself to her written work. Adrianne is living the life she always wanted, surrounded by art and beauty, the written word and a loving family.
As a young adult and new adult author, Adrianne James has plans to bring stories of growing characters, a little romance, and perhaps a little magic and mythology down the line for her readers to enjoy.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
June 12, 2013
***Originally posted on http://www.theyalitchick.blogspot.com
Going into Overexposed, I did not know entirely what to expect. I usually worry about realistic fiction novels, because they can tend to be overly cliche, or just rehash the same problems as the countless amount of other teen dramas before it.
With Overexposed, I was pleasantly surprised. Especially for realistic fiction, the novel is exciting, interesting, and had me finish the entire read in one sitting, because I just could not stop until I got to the ending.
The characters are all well-developed, and it is refreshing to have a protagonist with a passion in photography. That is not something that is really emphasized, (you would suspect more of a hidden archery talent or a secret love for poetry) and it is very cool how the story revolves around this. I liked how Vi is a realistic character. She is torn on doing the right thing, but she did like gossip and the chance to capture news on her camera, which is something that most of us can connect to. If she had a camera and did not take pictures of something that is shocking or newsworthy, her character probably would have been annoying. Her passion for her craft - even if it isn't convenient for others - makes it easier to connect to her as a character.
Don't get me wrong, I can be a huge romantic, but another refreshing thing about Overexposed is that it does not end up becoming a romance, like...well, pretty much every young adult novel out there. Focusing on the plot and the friendship really adds to the reading experience, and it is great that James realizes that not every good YA story needs a ridiculously perfect male love interest. The relationships between friends, family and peers that were displayed in the story were done so well, that it is more than enough.
The ending was a bit predictable, but the plot still did have twists and I don't recall reading any slow or unnecessary portions. Every scene carried the story with excellent transitions. The themes displayed in the novel, dealing with honesty, integrity, morality, and friendship were clearly and beautifully displayed.
Overexposed is a thoroughly enjoyable read. A definite page-turner, I was satisfied completely. Through a witty voice, an interesting and suspenseful story is spun out. A clear reminder that bad things can happen anywhere, I would definitely recommend reading Overexposed. It reminded me that realistic fiction can be pretty brilliant.
Going into Overexposed, I did not know entirely what to expect. I usually worry about realistic fiction novels, because they can tend to be overly cliche, or just rehash the same problems as the countless amount of other teen dramas before it.
With Overexposed, I was pleasantly surprised. Especially for realistic fiction, the novel is exciting, interesting, and had me finish the entire read in one sitting, because I just could not stop until I got to the ending.
The characters are all well-developed, and it is refreshing to have a protagonist with a passion in photography. That is not something that is really emphasized, (you would suspect more of a hidden archery talent or a secret love for poetry) and it is very cool how the story revolves around this. I liked how Vi is a realistic character. She is torn on doing the right thing, but she did like gossip and the chance to capture news on her camera, which is something that most of us can connect to. If she had a camera and did not take pictures of something that is shocking or newsworthy, her character probably would have been annoying. Her passion for her craft - even if it isn't convenient for others - makes it easier to connect to her as a character.
Don't get me wrong, I can be a huge romantic, but another refreshing thing about Overexposed is that it does not end up becoming a romance, like...well, pretty much every young adult novel out there. Focusing on the plot and the friendship really adds to the reading experience, and it is great that James realizes that not every good YA story needs a ridiculously perfect male love interest. The relationships between friends, family and peers that were displayed in the story were done so well, that it is more than enough.
The ending was a bit predictable, but the plot still did have twists and I don't recall reading any slow or unnecessary portions. Every scene carried the story with excellent transitions. The themes displayed in the novel, dealing with honesty, integrity, morality, and friendship were clearly and beautifully displayed.
Overexposed is a thoroughly enjoyable read. A definite page-turner, I was satisfied completely. Through a witty voice, an interesting and suspenseful story is spun out. A clear reminder that bad things can happen anywhere, I would definitely recommend reading Overexposed. It reminded me that realistic fiction can be pretty brilliant.
February 24, 2020
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Overexposed by is a nice YA novel. I work at a high school and I have teens, and this book very much had the feel of life through a teenager's eyes. There is the typical high school drama and the dilemma of which side of the tracks you live on. It touches upon several issues faced by teens: rumors/gossip, drugs, dating and loyalty to friends and family.
The story takes place in a small mining town where more and more miners are being laid off. The declining socio-economic situation in the town leads some to turn to crime to help support their families. As in many stories about company towns, the teens are all desperate to find a way out—college, professional sports, etc.—and some of the adults they think have their best interest at heart, actually perpetuate some of the problems.
The teens in the story characteristically represent the usual groups found in high school. The main characters have plenty of realistic dialogue. When a prom date goes south, best friends, Vi, Ashley and Macy get more on film than they had originally planned. Their photography class assignment takes on a life of its own as the girls are doggedly bullied by the local ruffians. Although unsupported by many of the adults she turns to, Vi persists in dealing with the problem and assists the local sheriff in proving who is really behind the drug ring. I liked that the story presented Vi as a strong girl who persevered for what she believed to be right instead of depicting her as a weak victim that need someone else to take care of her. While Vi might not be the perfect role model, I thought it was great that the author chose to portray her as strong and ultimately upstanding.
The story is realistic but not overly graphic or violent. I loved the stereotypical parental reactions when the crisis is exposed. The teens were realistic. I'm sure the situation they encounter happens all too often. Although I thought the end was a bit over the top, the dream-come-true ending will appeal to teens. After all, who doesn't want to believe that their good deeds will not go unnoticed.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
Overexposed by is a nice YA novel. I work at a high school and I have teens, and this book very much had the feel of life through a teenager's eyes. There is the typical high school drama and the dilemma of which side of the tracks you live on. It touches upon several issues faced by teens: rumors/gossip, drugs, dating and loyalty to friends and family.
The story takes place in a small mining town where more and more miners are being laid off. The declining socio-economic situation in the town leads some to turn to crime to help support their families. As in many stories about company towns, the teens are all desperate to find a way out—college, professional sports, etc.—and some of the adults they think have their best interest at heart, actually perpetuate some of the problems.
The teens in the story characteristically represent the usual groups found in high school. The main characters have plenty of realistic dialogue. When a prom date goes south, best friends, Vi, Ashley and Macy get more on film than they had originally planned. Their photography class assignment takes on a life of its own as the girls are doggedly bullied by the local ruffians. Although unsupported by many of the adults she turns to, Vi persists in dealing with the problem and assists the local sheriff in proving who is really behind the drug ring. I liked that the story presented Vi as a strong girl who persevered for what she believed to be right instead of depicting her as a weak victim that need someone else to take care of her. While Vi might not be the perfect role model, I thought it was great that the author chose to portray her as strong and ultimately upstanding.
The story is realistic but not overly graphic or violent. I loved the stereotypical parental reactions when the crisis is exposed. The teens were realistic. I'm sure the situation they encounter happens all too often. Although I thought the end was a bit over the top, the dream-come-true ending will appeal to teens. After all, who doesn't want to believe that their good deeds will not go unnoticed.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
May 28, 2013
Another great book from adrianne james! Good storyline and it really is entertaining and fun. can't wait for the next book:)
October 7, 2015
My Book Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overexposed is the story of three friends (Vi, Ashley and Macy) who get more than they bargained for when they uncover something dark in their small mining community. While working together on a project for their high school photography class, they see something that will put their lives in danger.
Overexposed was a book where, upon beginning to read, I wasn’t sure I’d like. In the beginning, the characters all seemed to blend together, and we’re told that Vi is a big gossip queen but we’re not really shown. We’re told over and over again how she needs to watch herself, but I didn’t observe her really doing any gossiping. We’re thrown right into the thick of things instead, which isn’t a bad thing, but being that gossiping is such a big part of who she is, I wish I’d been shown this instead of just told. I feel like Ashley was a little more developed, she was sort of a wallflower artist chick, with cool hair (it changes frequently.) I would say Vi was the main character, Ashley was her sidekick, and Macy was along for the ride, so we didn’t get to know Macy as much but that was okay.
The second half of the book almost made me forget the lack of showing-not-telling in the beginning. There was action and drama and people that made me so mad! When a fictional character can have you wanting to punch them in the throat, you know you have a winner.
I really don’t want to say much for fear of giving away the plot. I will say that this was an enjoyable read and I’m glad I read it. It touches base on bullying in school and so much more. Aside from the character development that I felt was a little lacking, I would recommend this book and also read more from Adrianne James in the future.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overexposed is the story of three friends (Vi, Ashley and Macy) who get more than they bargained for when they uncover something dark in their small mining community. While working together on a project for their high school photography class, they see something that will put their lives in danger.
Overexposed was a book where, upon beginning to read, I wasn’t sure I’d like. In the beginning, the characters all seemed to blend together, and we’re told that Vi is a big gossip queen but we’re not really shown. We’re told over and over again how she needs to watch herself, but I didn’t observe her really doing any gossiping. We’re thrown right into the thick of things instead, which isn’t a bad thing, but being that gossiping is such a big part of who she is, I wish I’d been shown this instead of just told. I feel like Ashley was a little more developed, she was sort of a wallflower artist chick, with cool hair (it changes frequently.) I would say Vi was the main character, Ashley was her sidekick, and Macy was along for the ride, so we didn’t get to know Macy as much but that was okay.
The second half of the book almost made me forget the lack of showing-not-telling in the beginning. There was action and drama and people that made me so mad! When a fictional character can have you wanting to punch them in the throat, you know you have a winner.
I really don’t want to say much for fear of giving away the plot. I will say that this was an enjoyable read and I’m glad I read it. It touches base on bullying in school and so much more. Aside from the character development that I felt was a little lacking, I would recommend this book and also read more from Adrianne James in the future.
October 1, 2015
Loved this! Almost read it all in one go - very quick and compelling, neat plot, lots of twists. Vi and Ashley were really great characters as well, and I loved the small town setting. The harassment and bullying and unfairness of the situation seriously made me mad as well!
My only gripe is that there were a fair few minor spelling/grammatical errors, and the dialogue at times felt very stilted and unnatural - practically no contractions coming out of the mouths of these teens! And there were a few times some last names got a little switched around as well. But it was still a fabulous read that I thoroughly enjoyed!
My only gripe is that there were a fair few minor spelling/grammatical errors, and the dialogue at times felt very stilted and unnatural - practically no contractions coming out of the mouths of these teens! And there were a few times some last names got a little switched around as well. But it was still a fabulous read that I thoroughly enjoyed!
considering-2
May 25, 2013Blurb sounds super cute!
In the tiny town of Willowspring, just about nothing ever happens except for layoffs, hockey games, and your average melodramatic teenage angst.
But that was before.
Vi, Ashley, and Macy are just trying to make it through the school year without one more humiliation when they team up for a simple photography assignment: create a story through a series of photographs. Can't be too much trouble, right?
Wrong.
The shutterbugs happen upon Willowspring High School's darkest secret. When everything around them starts to crumble after trying to do the right thing, their only hope is to stick together.
In the tiny town of Willowspring, just about nothing ever happens except for layoffs, hockey games, and your average melodramatic teenage angst.
But that was before.
Vi, Ashley, and Macy are just trying to make it through the school year without one more humiliation when they team up for a simple photography assignment: create a story through a series of photographs. Can't be too much trouble, right?
Wrong.
The shutterbugs happen upon Willowspring High School's darkest secret. When everything around them starts to crumble after trying to do the right thing, their only hope is to stick together.
April 18, 2015
I received this book from United Indie Book Blog for an honest review
I give Overexposed 4 stars. It is a young adult mystery/suspense story. The first chapter drew me in and the story kept me guessing what was going to happen or who actually was behind it all. The story-line flowed and was very well developed. The characters are very relate-able with how teenage girls think and behave. I like that Vi is so straightforward and there is only right and wrong no grey area with her. She is so focused on getting out of her small town and protecting her family that she doesn't think about her own safety. This book kept me reading and guessing about what would happen. Great mystery read.
I give Overexposed 4 stars. It is a young adult mystery/suspense story. The first chapter drew me in and the story kept me guessing what was going to happen or who actually was behind it all. The story-line flowed and was very well developed. The characters are very relate-able with how teenage girls think and behave. I like that Vi is so straightforward and there is only right and wrong no grey area with her. She is so focused on getting out of her small town and protecting her family that she doesn't think about her own safety. This book kept me reading and guessing about what would happen. Great mystery read.
November 6, 2015
I received this book from United Indie Book Blog for an honest review
I give Overexposed 4 stars. It is a young adult mystery/suspense story. The first chapter drew me in and the story kept me guessing what was going to happen or who actually was behind it all. The storyline flowed and was very well developed. The characters are very relatable with how teenage girls think and behave. I like that Vi is so straightforward and there is only right and wrong no grey area with her. She is so focused on getting out of her small town and protecting her family that she doesn't think about her own safety. This book kept me reading and guessing about what would happen. Great mystery read.
I give Overexposed 4 stars. It is a young adult mystery/suspense story. The first chapter drew me in and the story kept me guessing what was going to happen or who actually was behind it all. The storyline flowed and was very well developed. The characters are very relatable with how teenage girls think and behave. I like that Vi is so straightforward and there is only right and wrong no grey area with her. She is so focused on getting out of her small town and protecting her family that she doesn't think about her own safety. This book kept me reading and guessing about what would happen. Great mystery read.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews