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Spin
Alt Cover: ISBN13 9781941291047
Sophomore Kisrie Kelley longs to fit in. Instead, she’s always been a misfit, a fact her nemesis Wendy won’t let her forget. At least she’s got color guard and photography, right? She almost feels normal when she’s out on the field performing or behind the lens. Truth be told, they’re the only reasons she even shows up at school, though her professor mom thinks they’re both a waste of Kisrie’s time. Add a serious affinity to Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups that has her battling the bulge and a pestering “prodigy” little sister who thinks she’s a bush baby, and Kisrie’s contemplating moving to a different planet.
The stakes are raised even higher when she overhears Wendy plotting against Kisrie’s English-teacher uncle all over a stupid grade! Should Kisrie snitch and risk Wendy’s wrath? Ever since elementary school the young beauty queen has bullied Kisrie as if it were an Olympic sport. Who’s going to believe Wendy’s story anyway?
Everything spins out of control as vicious rumors fly and lives are on the line. Only the truth can set them all free, but will it be too late?
Sophomore Kisrie Kelley longs to fit in. Instead, she’s always been a misfit, a fact her nemesis Wendy won’t let her forget. At least she’s got color guard and photography, right? She almost feels normal when she’s out on the field performing or behind the lens. Truth be told, they’re the only reasons she even shows up at school, though her professor mom thinks they’re both a waste of Kisrie’s time. Add a serious affinity to Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups that has her battling the bulge and a pestering “prodigy” little sister who thinks she’s a bush baby, and Kisrie’s contemplating moving to a different planet.
The stakes are raised even higher when she overhears Wendy plotting against Kisrie’s English-teacher uncle all over a stupid grade! Should Kisrie snitch and risk Wendy’s wrath? Ever since elementary school the young beauty queen has bullied Kisrie as if it were an Olympic sport. Who’s going to believe Wendy’s story anyway?
Everything spins out of control as vicious rumors fly and lives are on the line. Only the truth can set them all free, but will it be too late?
Paperback
First published September 13, 2014
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About the author
D.J. Gudger
5 books43 followersSince moving to Wyoming, D.J. has been seduced by the bizarre and stranger-than-fiction history the state has to offer. She is up to her eyeballs in research and often found lurking in historical museums and library archives.
D. J. holds a BA in psychology from Houghton College and a MA Ed in Special Education from the University of Colorado, Denver. Currently, she is an adjunct instructor for Casper College in Casper, Wyoming in their Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) program. She helped found WY Write, a group for Christian writers in Casper, Wyoming. She’s been a contributing member of The Write Nook since 2016 and serves on faculty at the Colorado Christian Writer’s Conference. When she’s not writing, D. J. is active on the worship team at her church as a vocalist and struggling guitar player. She can be found paddling on the North Platte River in her kayak or hiking in the mountains with her husband and son. During the 11 months and twenty-nine days of Wyoming winter, she enjoys snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and watching the snow fall. And to make herself nuts, she is trying to teach herself how to crochet.
D. J. holds a BA in psychology from Houghton College and a MA Ed in Special Education from the University of Colorado, Denver. Currently, she is an adjunct instructor for Casper College in Casper, Wyoming in their Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) program. She helped found WY Write, a group for Christian writers in Casper, Wyoming. She’s been a contributing member of The Write Nook since 2016 and serves on faculty at the Colorado Christian Writer’s Conference. When she’s not writing, D. J. is active on the worship team at her church as a vocalist and struggling guitar player. She can be found paddling on the North Platte River in her kayak or hiking in the mountains with her husband and son. During the 11 months and twenty-nine days of Wyoming winter, she enjoys snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and watching the snow fall. And to make herself nuts, she is trying to teach herself how to crochet.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 27, 2015
I was in the middle of reading another book by a well-known author when Darcie J. Gudger's Spin came into my possession. I started reading, and I couldn't stop! I put down that other author and devoured this awesome YA novel. Darcie's writing is a fun cross between Jenny B. Jones, Brandilyn Collins, and Nancy Rue. She writes with an edgy flair that teens will relate to, yet is careful never to push things too far. Spin is a book about real life and real issues teens face every single day. Whether you're a teen, the parent of one, or have ever felt like you didn't fit in (that's all of us!) then this book is for you. And did I mention there's humor? A terrific novel I highly recommend.
October 1, 2014
*4.5 Stars*
Spin is an impressive debut in the YA genre. Ms. Gudger has a strong voice and I liked that she touched on so many different teen topics.
Kisrie Kelley is a talented young woman who doesn't fit into the typical teen girl mold - at least the mold her mom would like her to fit into. If only her mom could see where her talents lie. Thank goodness she has some good friends and a dad who're very involved with her well-being. This is so important because Kisrie deals with quite a bit of bullying - especially from one girl who Kisrie refers to as "the Queen of Mean." Aside from worrying over grades and body image, Kisrie also struggles with whether to do the right thing when it means certain physical harm.
Wendy Wetz is the perfect antagonist. She seems to have it all, just the kind of girl we love to hate. She's pretty, smart, popular, cunning, and seemingly wealthy. But things aren't always as they appear. However, Wendy does purport some heinous actions on Kisrie and others. And it's when she sets a certain plan into motion that Spin really begins to spin.
Spin touches on many relevant teen topics such as bullying, body image issues, making smart choices, as well as timely topics like cyber-bullying and suicide. And it did so in such an honest way and by wrapping a compelling story around these issues. I liked that all these topics are discussed. It made the story complex and, at times, dark. But what I liked even more was seeing how these topics affected the characters and the character growth brought on by dealing with them. Kisrie does begin to make some mature decisions towards the end of the book, as does Wendy and even Jacque, Tammie, and Gwyn, Kisrie's mom. The potential in all the characters is something I love and will draw me back for the next installments.
Overall, I found Ms. Gudger's debut fantastic! The story was engaging, well written and suspenseful. And she gave an honest picture of the teen landscape - the things they face every day. I'm eager for the next in the series. I can't wait to see where our heroine and villainess go from here.
**I received a complimentary copy, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.**
Spin is an impressive debut in the YA genre. Ms. Gudger has a strong voice and I liked that she touched on so many different teen topics.
Kisrie Kelley is a talented young woman who doesn't fit into the typical teen girl mold - at least the mold her mom would like her to fit into. If only her mom could see where her talents lie. Thank goodness she has some good friends and a dad who're very involved with her well-being. This is so important because Kisrie deals with quite a bit of bullying - especially from one girl who Kisrie refers to as "the Queen of Mean." Aside from worrying over grades and body image, Kisrie also struggles with whether to do the right thing when it means certain physical harm.
Wendy Wetz is the perfect antagonist. She seems to have it all, just the kind of girl we love to hate. She's pretty, smart, popular, cunning, and seemingly wealthy. But things aren't always as they appear. However, Wendy does purport some heinous actions on Kisrie and others. And it's when she sets a certain plan into motion that Spin really begins to spin.
Spin touches on many relevant teen topics such as bullying, body image issues, making smart choices, as well as timely topics like cyber-bullying and suicide. And it did so in such an honest way and by wrapping a compelling story around these issues. I liked that all these topics are discussed. It made the story complex and, at times, dark. But what I liked even more was seeing how these topics affected the characters and the character growth brought on by dealing with them. Kisrie does begin to make some mature decisions towards the end of the book, as does Wendy and even Jacque, Tammie, and Gwyn, Kisrie's mom. The potential in all the characters is something I love and will draw me back for the next installments.
Overall, I found Ms. Gudger's debut fantastic! The story was engaging, well written and suspenseful. And she gave an honest picture of the teen landscape - the things they face every day. I'm eager for the next in the series. I can't wait to see where our heroine and villainess go from here.
**I received a complimentary copy, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.**
January 17, 2019
Excellent read! There are a lot of emotions in this book. It's fast paced, so no really dull, boring parts. Everything flowed well together and Darcie threw in some twists that either shocked me or broke my heart. I can't wait to read Toss (Guarded, #2).
April 19, 2016
A stunning debut!
Author Darcie Gudger gives us a wonderful story of forgiveness, loyalty, courage, and friendship. I couldn't put this book down. I loved the main theme of Spin : do the right thing even when no one else will stand with you and it doesn't seem like you'll make a difference.
Spin contains many humorous situations but also many serious ones. Mrs. Gudger's writing can be laugh-out-loud funny, but serious when it needs to be. The character's emotions were conveyed well.
Several chapters are written from Wendy's (the bully) POV, and so the reader begins to understand her. I so badly wanted her to get what she deserved, but I also couldn't help but feel sorry for her. This girl is nasty, but I began to sympathize with her. By the end of Spin , the reader fully understands Wendy's motivations. Mrs. Gudger's addition of Wendy's perspective added a certain level of depth not many YA novels can boast of.
I would recommend Spin to older teens, as the book deals with some tough, mature issues.
Book two, please!
Author Darcie Gudger gives us a wonderful story of forgiveness, loyalty, courage, and friendship. I couldn't put this book down. I loved the main theme of Spin : do the right thing even when no one else will stand with you and it doesn't seem like you'll make a difference.
Spin contains many humorous situations but also many serious ones. Mrs. Gudger's writing can be laugh-out-loud funny, but serious when it needs to be. The character's emotions were conveyed well.
Several chapters are written from Wendy's (the bully) POV, and so the reader begins to understand her. I so badly wanted her to get what she deserved, but I also couldn't help but feel sorry for her. This girl is nasty, but I began to sympathize with her. By the end of Spin , the reader fully understands Wendy's motivations. Mrs. Gudger's addition of Wendy's perspective added a certain level of depth not many YA novels can boast of.
I would recommend Spin to older teens, as the book deals with some tough, mature issues.
Book two, please!
December 19, 2015
High school! Gudger brings out the pain and agony of high school as well as the softer side of being a teen. Bullying, bullies, and loyalty play a huge part. Or maybe lack of loyalty. I don't want to give the story away, but this is a slightly-edgy look at public high school and the trauma one girl endures as she tries to do the right thing without totally ruining her life.
Sibling rivalry and the complexities of her relationship with each of her parents is very realistic. Even her self esteem issues and borderline eating disorder is very relatable. It's just a really good book, an entertaining story about high school and girls and color guard and spinning. Loved it. Can't wait for the sequel!
Sibling rivalry and the complexities of her relationship with each of her parents is very realistic. Even her self esteem issues and borderline eating disorder is very relatable. It's just a really good book, an entertaining story about high school and girls and color guard and spinning. Loved it. Can't wait for the sequel!
June 30, 2015
Spin is a delightful coming of age tale that flashed this reader back to her awkward high school days. No matter what those days were like for you, you’re certain to find yourself somewhere within the pages of this wonderful read. While Gudger says she writes for teens, this book will also appeal to those who have left their teen years behind. The characters are well-developed, the trouble Kisrie gets into rolls from one conundrum to the next without pause, and you won’t want to put this story down until you reach the very satisfying conclusion. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
March 28, 2015
I have to say I had my doubts about this book- as exciting as it was to find a book about color guard, I wasn't sure if it would be accurate or make an interesting enough plot. While I found that color guard wasn't the main focus of the story, the actual plot kept me interested with surprise after surprise. And the guard moments felt authentic without being overwhelming for readers who aren't familiar with the activity. My one complaint is that the ending felt a little abrupt- what happens next?
November 23, 2014
This book was very well written. As a color guard coach myself I have witnessed the dynamic in this book on so many occasions. Mrs. Gudger does a great job portraying what is unfortunately an epidemic in schools right now- bullying. The book is well paced, and leaves you wanting more! Can't wait to read the other 2 books in the series!
December 21, 2015
Can't wait for the next one. :)
December 24, 2014
This was a fantastic debut! It had me going through a myriad of feelings that left me laughing, confused, angry, happy, and tense in some scenes.
The plot was engaging and for the most part I liked the characters. There were a few who I didn’t care for because I thought they were too annoying or dizzy. However they helped make a minor part of the story.
One of my favorite things about this novel is how God can speak to all ages of people, including teens. Kiz’s experiences weren’t far-fetched and so realistic. I really admired her as she was so honest with how she felt towards God, but yet still did what He asked of her. That doesn’t mean it’s easy or people will understand, but it does show how God desires a personal relationship with His people.
Overall, this is an excellent YA novel that I would recommend to mature teens. My eyes were opened to just how serious bullying really can be and go as well as those effects of those actions. I was also blown away in how God can change someone’s heart toward a bully and not retaliate back with violent revenge.
*(I received this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.)*
The plot was engaging and for the most part I liked the characters. There were a few who I didn’t care for because I thought they were too annoying or dizzy. However they helped make a minor part of the story.
One of my favorite things about this novel is how God can speak to all ages of people, including teens. Kiz’s experiences weren’t far-fetched and so realistic. I really admired her as she was so honest with how she felt towards God, but yet still did what He asked of her. That doesn’t mean it’s easy or people will understand, but it does show how God desires a personal relationship with His people.
Overall, this is an excellent YA novel that I would recommend to mature teens. My eyes were opened to just how serious bullying really can be and go as well as those effects of those actions. I was also blown away in how God can change someone’s heart toward a bully and not retaliate back with violent revenge.
*(I received this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.)*
December 6, 2014
Even though bullying is not a funny topic, Darcie J. Gudger’s main character, Kisrie, is humorous. Kisrie’s not a size five, and she’s not dainty, which leads to some funny, clumsy moments throughout the first part of the book. After that, the story becomes drop dead serious on the topic of high school bullying.
A group of girls, led by queen bully, Wendy Wetz, make Kisrie their target and this story becomes no laughing matter. Ms. Gudger is gutsy to tackle the bullying topic. The story’s plot unfolds into gut wrenching, heart pounding, and often sad circumstances. It evolves around Kisrie and her not being the model teen expected from most of her peers.
In chapter two, I was quite surprised when the Point of View switched from Kisrie to Wendy. I was sure then I would truly be allowed into the heart of a story that tackled a difficult topic. Switching to Wendy’s POV throughout the book was a smart move on Ms. Gudger’s part. It deepens the story to make for a more interesting read.
A group of girls, led by queen bully, Wendy Wetz, make Kisrie their target and this story becomes no laughing matter. Ms. Gudger is gutsy to tackle the bullying topic. The story’s plot unfolds into gut wrenching, heart pounding, and often sad circumstances. It evolves around Kisrie and her not being the model teen expected from most of her peers.
In chapter two, I was quite surprised when the Point of View switched from Kisrie to Wendy. I was sure then I would truly be allowed into the heart of a story that tackled a difficult topic. Switching to Wendy’s POV throughout the book was a smart move on Ms. Gudger’s part. It deepens the story to make for a more interesting read.
October 22, 2014
I Greatly enjoyed this book from the perspective of a normal reader. On the other hand though, I was disappointed from the perspective of someone who is really in color guard. I believe there is so much more the Author could have done with the color guard aspect of the book. Also most of the places where the author mentioned color guard it was thrown in. But on the other hand there were some spots that we greatly necessary for the development of the plot and characters. Over all though, I loved the book it constantly kept me wanting more. and when it was over I stood there in shock for a few minutes because I wanted more. So In conclusion I really enjoyed the book and will highly recommend it.
October 23, 2014
This was a very surprising read. I was startled to find my emotions wrapped so strongly around Kisrie and her friends. I hated who she hated, I loved who she loved, and I wanted to hug her and tell her how much she is loved by God. Kisrie's problems as a high schooler resonate with you no matter how old you are as a reader.
Everyone needs to know that they are worth something to the Creator of the world and that grace is something He offers to each person, no matter how young. Darcie J. Gudger shows this well. I finished this book in just a few days; I'll be glad to read her upcoming books in this series!
Great job, Darcie! Keep it up!
I received this book as a reviewer. The opinions expressed are my own.
Everyone needs to know that they are worth something to the Creator of the world and that grace is something He offers to each person, no matter how young. Darcie J. Gudger shows this well. I finished this book in just a few days; I'll be glad to read her upcoming books in this series!
Great job, Darcie! Keep it up!
I received this book as a reviewer. The opinions expressed are my own.
January 7, 2015
3.5/5
I picked up this book initially after a friend recommended it. The cover and the title promised Colorguard - which I was a part of in high school. So it's safe to say I was disappointed by the rare instance of Colorguard. The book dealt more with rumors and the repercussions of that which was fine. It's not a bad book it's just not what I expected.
I picked up this book initially after a friend recommended it. The cover and the title promised Colorguard - which I was a part of in high school. So it's safe to say I was disappointed by the rare instance of Colorguard. The book dealt more with rumors and the repercussions of that which was fine. It's not a bad book it's just not what I expected.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews