What do you think?
High School Horror Story #2
Teen Hyde
High school meets classic horror in this YA contemporary twist on Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Head Cheerleader Cassidy Hyde’s life should have been perfect. But it really, really wasn’t, and she’s about ready to give up and disappear. Until, the first time she takes Sunshine. This new experimental drug makes Cassidy feel like the perfect, golden girl once again. A little memory loss seems like a small price to pay to get her life back . . . at least until boys start to go missing . . . boys that Cassidy NEVER wanted to think of again . . .
Thus begins Chandler Baker's second twisty-turny retelling of a familiar tale, once again set in the town of Hollow Pines, Texas, where high school is truly horrifying.
Head Cheerleader Cassidy Hyde’s life should have been perfect. But it really, really wasn’t, and she’s about ready to give up and disappear. Until, the first time she takes Sunshine. This new experimental drug makes Cassidy feel like the perfect, golden girl once again. A little memory loss seems like a small price to pay to get her life back . . . at least until boys start to go missing . . . boys that Cassidy NEVER wanted to think of again . . .
Thus begins Chandler Baker's second twisty-turny retelling of a familiar tale, once again set in the town of Hollow Pines, Texas, where high school is truly horrifying.
257 pages, Hardcover
First published January 10, 2017
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
December 17, 2017
I read the first book in this series when it first came out a few years back. I thought it was a unique take on a classic horror story. That's kind of how I went into this book, but while this may seem like a Jekyll/Hyde story, it is actually much darker.
The story follows Cassidy, Homecoming Queen, head cheerleader and all-around Miss. Perfect. But after the death of her boyfriend, she finds herself spiraling into a darker version of reality. One night, she finds herself in a terrifying situation: drink, without her friends, and surrounded by five college guys. After the Incident, Cassidy can barely function. Soon she is taking Sunshine, a little yellow pill that is promised to bring her happiness. But Cassidy starts to forget chunks of time. The town goes on lockdown; boys start going missing, college boys.
Going into this story, I knew very little about the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. All I really knew was that one was an alter-ego or some sort of multiple personality. I guess that's all I really needed to know about the origins of this story, because this was a very loose retelling, more of an inspiration, than anything else.
I had no idea how dark this book was going to get. I would definitely caution some readers; trigger warnings for sexual assault and rape. While it wasn't the light-hearted book I thought it was going to be, I still really appreciated Baker telling this version of the story. The aftereffects of assault can be extreme, as seen in Cassidy's case.
I would say in relation to book one, this is more of a companion. There are a few references very early on in the story to characters in that book, most likely to help grasp who's who in this one. I would say you could even just read this one as a standalone if you prefer. And I don't think you really need to read these books in order if you're going to read the whole series, and I don't think you'll really get too spoiled for book one if you read this one first.
The story itself was definitely a lot darker and more sinister than I was expecting, some of the things Marcy does are just horrific. I understand the basis of her reasoning but the fact that a teenager could do these things is nauseating. Then again, she's not the only one who did disgusting things - those boys are no better.
In terms of writing, this book was fairly well done. It wasn't anything spectacular, but based on book one, I wasn't expecting spectacular. The story was suspenseful and I read it quite quickly in one sitting. The final few chapters were really intense, and that ending was something else.
Overall, a solid continuation of this unique series, and I look forward to book three.
The story follows Cassidy, Homecoming Queen, head cheerleader and all-around Miss. Perfect. But after the death of her boyfriend, she finds herself spiraling into a darker version of reality. One night, she finds herself in a terrifying situation: drink, without her friends, and surrounded by five college guys. After the Incident, Cassidy can barely function. Soon she is taking Sunshine, a little yellow pill that is promised to bring her happiness. But Cassidy starts to forget chunks of time. The town goes on lockdown; boys start going missing, college boys.
Going into this story, I knew very little about the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. All I really knew was that one was an alter-ego or some sort of multiple personality. I guess that's all I really needed to know about the origins of this story, because this was a very loose retelling, more of an inspiration, than anything else.
I had no idea how dark this book was going to get. I would definitely caution some readers; trigger warnings for sexual assault and rape. While it wasn't the light-hearted book I thought it was going to be, I still really appreciated Baker telling this version of the story. The aftereffects of assault can be extreme, as seen in Cassidy's case.
I would say in relation to book one, this is more of a companion. There are a few references very early on in the story to characters in that book, most likely to help grasp who's who in this one. I would say you could even just read this one as a standalone if you prefer. And I don't think you really need to read these books in order if you're going to read the whole series, and I don't think you'll really get too spoiled for book one if you read this one first.
The story itself was definitely a lot darker and more sinister than I was expecting, some of the things Marcy does are just horrific. I understand the basis of her reasoning but the fact that a teenager could do these things is nauseating. Then again, she's not the only one who did disgusting things - those boys are no better.
In terms of writing, this book was fairly well done. It wasn't anything spectacular, but based on book one, I wasn't expecting spectacular. The story was suspenseful and I read it quite quickly in one sitting. The final few chapters were really intense, and that ending was something else.
Overall, a solid continuation of this unique series, and I look forward to book three.
April 11, 2019
Teen Frankenstein was good, but this was fantastic!
January 10, 2017
Thanks to Fiewel & Friends and Netgalley for a copy of the eARC in exchange for a fair review.
Disclaimer: This is book 2 in the High School Horror series, well it's not completely needed to understand events and references are made to Teen Frankenstein book 1.
Cassidy Hyde isn't dealing with things all that well. Since Adam cheated on her with a nobody and was killed the night she was crowned Homecoming Queen things have been hard. She just can't shake the sadness so she agrees to go to the party even though she isn't really feeling it. While she on the verge of having a Britney Spears moment, Liam bursts into the bathroom and before he leaves he offers her this little pill called Sunshine.
When Cassidy wakes up in the morning she feels great despite the fact that she can't remember anything passed dancing with Liam. Maybe a little memory loss is okay to feel better in the end. As as the days go by, Cassidy becomes more and more aware of the fact that she is doing things at night and can't remember what is going on. When Lena a sophomore calls her Mercy she knows something is wrong, but she just can't quite figure it out.
Until the morning she wakes up with blood on her hands, Cassidy knows that she has to figure this out and stop herself. Will she come up with a way to save herself? Will she be able to admit the truth?
This is was interesting, twist, on Dr.Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Like Teen Frankenstein a gender switch, but not only that there are underlying secrets Cassidy is keeping. They get revealed in a way as the story goes on. I say in a way because it isn't expressly spelled out. You have to kind of guess with no real confirmation.
I have to say that Cassidy is the kind of main character I wouldn't normal like, but in a way she was as light as her other half, Marcy was dark. They fit together and while neither character was very likable you could relate to them. I was half afraid I wouldn't like this because it features different characters from Teen Frankenstein although it is set in the same town. In fact, both mc's attend the same high school. That being said I loved this, I read it as fast as I could and now I am really sad that I have to wait a long time for book 3 to come out. So if you like retellings that aren't fairy tales... You should totally check out this series!
Disclaimer: This is book 2 in the High School Horror series, well it's not completely needed to understand events and references are made to Teen Frankenstein book 1.
Cassidy Hyde isn't dealing with things all that well. Since Adam cheated on her with a nobody and was killed the night she was crowned Homecoming Queen things have been hard. She just can't shake the sadness so she agrees to go to the party even though she isn't really feeling it. While she on the verge of having a Britney Spears moment, Liam bursts into the bathroom and before he leaves he offers her this little pill called Sunshine.
When Cassidy wakes up in the morning she feels great despite the fact that she can't remember anything passed dancing with Liam. Maybe a little memory loss is okay to feel better in the end. As as the days go by, Cassidy becomes more and more aware of the fact that she is doing things at night and can't remember what is going on. When Lena a sophomore calls her Mercy she knows something is wrong, but she just can't quite figure it out.
Until the morning she wakes up with blood on her hands, Cassidy knows that she has to figure this out and stop herself. Will she come up with a way to save herself? Will she be able to admit the truth?
This is was interesting, twist, on Dr.Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Like Teen Frankenstein a gender switch, but not only that there are underlying secrets Cassidy is keeping. They get revealed in a way as the story goes on. I say in a way because it isn't expressly spelled out. You have to kind of guess with no real confirmation.
I have to say that Cassidy is the kind of main character I wouldn't normal like, but in a way she was as light as her other half, Marcy was dark. They fit together and while neither character was very likable you could relate to them. I was half afraid I wouldn't like this because it features different characters from Teen Frankenstein although it is set in the same town. In fact, both mc's attend the same high school. That being said I loved this, I read it as fast as I could and now I am really sad that I have to wait a long time for book 3 to come out. So if you like retellings that aren't fairy tales... You should totally check out this series!
September 29, 2020
ok this book is equal parts silly and serious and also this whole series seems even more iconic than that book where the phantom owned a rave club so i will be reading all of them. the premise is like, objectively ridiculous, but the way the jekyll and hyde thing has been retwisted is actually a lot more compelling than some doctor man being butthurt about, yknow, not being allowed to conduct human experiments on people in asylums (idk i’ve only ever listened to the musical). i am very much looking forward to the frankenstein book but even more so to the phantom one. i think my only nitpick is like.......how can you drag a dead body 25 miles to your home without fucking up your car.....?????
on-hold
January 24, 2017I'm marking this as on hold because it's not at all what I expected it to be? It doesn't seem to include Tor or Adam at all, even in the background; it is REALLY intense; and I have a feeling it isn't going to end well for anyone. I think I need to be in the right frame of mind to read this, and that frame of mind is definitely not the one I've got now.
August 28, 2017
Horror novels and adolescence go together like Jekyll and Hyde. I have a whole thesis about this - literally, you can hire me to come and talk about it. I even have a Prezi. We call it "Something Wicked This Way Comes of Age." Here's our Tumblr: http://somethingwickedcomesofage.tumb...
The metaphors of horror - the haunted house, the transforming body, zombies - apply so perfectly to adolescent development. Likewise, Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: the law-abiding scientist that gives way to the out-of-control violent carouser. I got a couple of those types marinating in their rooms at home right this very second.
In this case, Jekyll is head cheerleader and A+ student Cassidy. Of COURSE a 21st century Jekyll is a high-achieving teenage girl. No creature on earth exhibits more control - over her body, her presentation, her time, her interactions. But Cassidy has a tiny wild side. She likes to drink and make out with boys. And one night a little while ago, she left a bar with a bad group of boys, and bad things happened.
She kept this to herself, but it has recently been observed by her friends that she has been acting withdrawn. So one night at a party she accepts a little yellow pill that makes her feel happy and fun again. This drug helps her reclaim her grades, her attitude, her groove, and her team spirit. Although she does begin waking up with large gaps in her memory, and/or blood on her hands.
Turns out her alter ego, Marcy, has been stalking - and killing, yup, definitely murdering - the boys that attacked her.
Now, the reason I am writing such a long review - with so much summary, which I hardly ever do - is that I am still figuring out my feelings.
- Cassidy's "best" friend, a blond viper named Paisley, consistently teases her about being "easy." And Cassidy is perfectly aware that it's only kind of teasing.
- Cassidy doesn't go to the police, or even tell her parents or friends. Ok, fine, that's this character. And the book wouldn't work if her alter ego didn't feel the need to take justice into her own hands. At one point Cassidy does wonder if things would have turned out differently if her friends - competitive, shallow frenemies, for the most part - had been people that she felt she could confide in. But I do wish that the author, who lists contact info for RAINN in the acknowledgements, had thrown an eensy attempt to denormalize Cassidy's decision not to report this crime into the text.
- Marcy interrupts the group of boys in the act of attacking another teenage girl. She calls the other girl "stupid." Marcy is one harsh person, it's for sure. But Cassidy also uses the word "stupid" about herself and other girls, and notably, about her little sister Honor, who she catches taking lingerie selfies to send to a boy. I feel like there is some development on this front... after Honor's pictures are forwarded all over school, blame is focused squarely on Dirtbag Dicky or Danny or whatever his name is. Cassidy - AS Cassidy - poisons the shit out of him, sending him to the hospital.
- Really good horror always shows us that what's really scary is not the monster. In this case, the reader is clearly meant to realized that the "real horror" is the way these boys prey on girls (and video their attacks). But the SCENES of horror in this book are Marcy's bloody, bloody murders. And listen, I get that you can't throw a detailed rape scene in a book that is supposed to be light entertainment. It's a weird fact of our society that stabbing a frat boy in the eye is totally PG-13, while rape is straight-up R. But it blunts the author's point, yes it does.
All in all, a novel in which a "good girl" loses her shit and starts feeding rapists to industrial equipment is, of course, viscerally charming. Teenage girls discovering their agency and strength - that's always a winner, too. And I'm going to recommend this book. But I feel that by not looking Cassidy's attack square in the face, the author falls just a smidge short of her aim. And the little whispers of victim blaming that I noticed sidling through are, I feel, never soundly rebutted.
The metaphors of horror - the haunted house, the transforming body, zombies - apply so perfectly to adolescent development. Likewise, Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: the law-abiding scientist that gives way to the out-of-control violent carouser. I got a couple of those types marinating in their rooms at home right this very second.
In this case, Jekyll is head cheerleader and A+ student Cassidy. Of COURSE a 21st century Jekyll is a high-achieving teenage girl. No creature on earth exhibits more control - over her body, her presentation, her time, her interactions. But Cassidy has a tiny wild side. She likes to drink and make out with boys. And one night a little while ago, she left a bar with a bad group of boys, and bad things happened.
She kept this to herself, but it has recently been observed by her friends that she has been acting withdrawn. So one night at a party she accepts a little yellow pill that makes her feel happy and fun again. This drug helps her reclaim her grades, her attitude, her groove, and her team spirit. Although she does begin waking up with large gaps in her memory, and/or blood on her hands.
Turns out her alter ego, Marcy, has been stalking - and killing, yup, definitely murdering - the boys that attacked her.
Now, the reason I am writing such a long review - with so much summary, which I hardly ever do - is that I am still figuring out my feelings.
- Cassidy's "best" friend, a blond viper named Paisley, consistently teases her about being "easy." And Cassidy is perfectly aware that it's only kind of teasing.
- Cassidy doesn't go to the police, or even tell her parents or friends. Ok, fine, that's this character. And the book wouldn't work if her alter ego didn't feel the need to take justice into her own hands. At one point Cassidy does wonder if things would have turned out differently if her friends - competitive, shallow frenemies, for the most part - had been people that she felt she could confide in. But I do wish that the author, who lists contact info for RAINN in the acknowledgements, had thrown an eensy attempt to denormalize Cassidy's decision not to report this crime into the text.
- Marcy interrupts the group of boys in the act of attacking another teenage girl. She calls the other girl "stupid." Marcy is one harsh person, it's for sure. But Cassidy also uses the word "stupid" about herself and other girls, and notably, about her little sister Honor, who she catches taking lingerie selfies to send to a boy. I feel like there is some development on this front... after Honor's pictures are forwarded all over school, blame is focused squarely on Dirtbag Dicky or Danny or whatever his name is. Cassidy - AS Cassidy - poisons the shit out of him, sending him to the hospital.
- Really good horror always shows us that what's really scary is not the monster. In this case, the reader is clearly meant to realized that the "real horror" is the way these boys prey on girls (and video their attacks). But the SCENES of horror in this book are Marcy's bloody, bloody murders. And listen, I get that you can't throw a detailed rape scene in a book that is supposed to be light entertainment. It's a weird fact of our society that stabbing a frat boy in the eye is totally PG-13, while rape is straight-up R. But it blunts the author's point, yes it does.
All in all, a novel in which a "good girl" loses her shit and starts feeding rapists to industrial equipment is, of course, viscerally charming. Teenage girls discovering their agency and strength - that's always a winner, too. And I'm going to recommend this book. But I feel that by not looking Cassidy's attack square in the face, the author falls just a smidge short of her aim. And the little whispers of victim blaming that I noticed sidling through are, I feel, never soundly rebutted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2017
I don't normally leave reviews, however I was sent an arc of this novel and I feel as though I should say a little something. The writing was alright for a YA novel. The story itself was well put together. The plot wrapped up quite nicely. The finale is something fresh in the sense that I haven't seen an ending like this happen in a long time.
May 18, 2018
Teen Hyde by Chandler Baker, 257 pgs. Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan Publishing Group), 2017. $17.99 Language – PG13 (65 swears, 0 “f”), Mature Content – PG13 (heterosexual and homosexual); Violence – PG13.
HS – OPTIONAL.
Cassidy has not been herself since that night several months ago, and, when she gets a taste of her old self again after taking a drug called Sunshine, she wants to be that old Cassidy again. But only part of her wants to make that change. The other part of Cassidy calls herself Marcy. And Marcy lives for revenge.
I found this retelling of Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde to be captivating, and I loved being kept on my toes over every page. However, this book does very much live up to its promise of horror. This is not a book for the light-hearted, as in Teen Hyde is at times creepy to the point of needing to sleep with the lights on. This is not to say that I did not enjoy it, but I did read it while the sun was still shining. Also, this book is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
HS – OPTIONAL.
Cassidy has not been herself since that night several months ago, and, when she gets a taste of her old self again after taking a drug called Sunshine, she wants to be that old Cassidy again. But only part of her wants to make that change. The other part of Cassidy calls herself Marcy. And Marcy lives for revenge.
I found this retelling of Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde to be captivating, and I loved being kept on my toes over every page. However, this book does very much live up to its promise of horror. This is not a book for the light-hearted, as in Teen Hyde is at times creepy to the point of needing to sleep with the lights on. This is not to say that I did not enjoy it, but I did read it while the sun was still shining. Also, this book is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
October 22, 2022
This chilling re-imagining of Stevenson’s most indelible horror novel is reminiscent of Jek/Hyde but with a greater emphasis on the adolescent high life that Ms. Baker’s protagonist is so desperate to cling to, at all costs.
Cassidy Hyde’s need to be the Popular Girl means that she will do almost anything to keep from sliding back into the social abyss that came with being a nerdy mathlete. She got herself the physical makeover through grueling denial of food and now she’s head cheerleader, queen over a clique of other pretty girls. Then a gang of boys shows her the ugly side of being popular—attracting the wrong kind of attention.
The book takes us through Cassidy’s crash into depression, the worry of her parents and the impatience of her best friend and her popular girl coterie. Her need to stay on top of the high school popularity ladder means she can’t tell anybody of the sexual assault that took her innocence and self-confidence. She was in a bar where she shouldn’t have been, in a town where she wasn’t given permission to go. Cassidy understands that she’s not to blame for what a quintet of boys decided to do to her. But she knows her social clique won’t see it that way.
The novel battles with typical adolescent high school hierarchy, sexual violence, the socio-gender split that means girls have to worry about being alone at night and boys never do and the depression that the protagonist can’t shake because she’s suffering alone.
The drug abuse that sends her careening off the deep end while simultaneously bringing bubbly Cassidy back is the catalyst that brings us firmly into Stevenson territory and, like Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll, poor Cassidy is soon in over her head. The novel hurtles us down into her increasingly futile attempts to keep her alter, the murderous Marcy, from ruining her life.
The ending is a bitter indictment of the systems that failed to protect Cassidy, one that didn’t shield her from rapacious boys, a convenient drug dealer or the bewildered adults who didn’t notice just how dire Cassidy’s world had become. Even with its YA grouping, this is more than a young adult novel. It’s a sober look at the crevice that lies between what feminism desires for women and the deceptive mire on the other side.
Cassidy Hyde’s need to be the Popular Girl means that she will do almost anything to keep from sliding back into the social abyss that came with being a nerdy mathlete. She got herself the physical makeover through grueling denial of food and now she’s head cheerleader, queen over a clique of other pretty girls. Then a gang of boys shows her the ugly side of being popular—attracting the wrong kind of attention.
The book takes us through Cassidy’s crash into depression, the worry of her parents and the impatience of her best friend and her popular girl coterie. Her need to stay on top of the high school popularity ladder means she can’t tell anybody of the sexual assault that took her innocence and self-confidence. She was in a bar where she shouldn’t have been, in a town where she wasn’t given permission to go. Cassidy understands that she’s not to blame for what a quintet of boys decided to do to her. But she knows her social clique won’t see it that way.
The novel battles with typical adolescent high school hierarchy, sexual violence, the socio-gender split that means girls have to worry about being alone at night and boys never do and the depression that the protagonist can’t shake because she’s suffering alone.
The drug abuse that sends her careening off the deep end while simultaneously bringing bubbly Cassidy back is the catalyst that brings us firmly into Stevenson territory and, like Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll, poor Cassidy is soon in over her head. The novel hurtles us down into her increasingly futile attempts to keep her alter, the murderous Marcy, from ruining her life.
The ending is a bitter indictment of the systems that failed to protect Cassidy, one that didn’t shield her from rapacious boys, a convenient drug dealer or the bewildered adults who didn’t notice just how dire Cassidy’s world had become. Even with its YA grouping, this is more than a young adult novel. It’s a sober look at the crevice that lies between what feminism desires for women and the deceptive mire on the other side.
April 10, 2018
This book tells the tale of Cassidy Hyde, a teenage girl who seems to have everything. She's captain of the cheerleading squad, has great parents, a loving sister, she's loved by everybody. Until her boyfriend cheats on her, kills her best friends boyfriend and gets murdered himself. Cassidy, then dealing with the trauma of past events indulges in the new "designer" drug called Sunshine. It makes her feel like herself again. But when she starts waking up not being able to remember where she's been during the night Cassidy must discover what's happened during her memory loss and deal with the consequences of her actions.
Seeing as this book is classified as "horror" I was expecting a Dr.Jekyll & Mr.Hyde scenario and I was right. It definitely takes an interesting twist on this concept, while also adding other horror elements as well. The book certainly is written well, very descriptive and I sympathized with Cassidy (for the most part.) I do wish she wasn't portrayed so superficially at various points though. The book reveals (spoilers) that were seeing both sides of Cassidy and her alter ego Marcy, which I enjoyed! I liked the idea of the drug setting off her psyche, but I feel like the drug could've had even more going for it since it was such an interesting aspect. After awhile it didn't make sense to me why she was still taking it? I know she's become addicted to the sensation it gives her, but it seemed a little odd.
I also didn't care for the way sexual assault was presented. It's revealed Cassidy and various other girls have been assaulted by an awful group of guys and her alter ego wants revenge. I can sympathize with her anger and I understand its not "Cassidy" murdering these men but it made my sympathy for her fade by the end of the book. I didn't want her to murder these men, I wanted her to expose them and conquer her other side. The ending was disappointing and seemed kind of like a cop-out, I mean she ends up in a psyche ward. How cliche. With a more solid, interesting ending and slight plot changes this book could've been great! I do plan on reading the first one and third in the series though to see how they measure up.
Seeing as this book is classified as "horror" I was expecting a Dr.Jekyll & Mr.Hyde scenario and I was right. It definitely takes an interesting twist on this concept, while also adding other horror elements as well. The book certainly is written well, very descriptive and I sympathized with Cassidy (for the most part.) I do wish she wasn't portrayed so superficially at various points though. The book reveals (spoilers) that were seeing both sides of Cassidy and her alter ego Marcy, which I enjoyed! I liked the idea of the drug setting off her psyche, but I feel like the drug could've had even more going for it since it was such an interesting aspect. After awhile it didn't make sense to me why she was still taking it? I know she's become addicted to the sensation it gives her, but it seemed a little odd.
I also didn't care for the way sexual assault was presented. It's revealed Cassidy and various other girls have been assaulted by an awful group of guys and her alter ego wants revenge. I can sympathize with her anger and I understand its not "Cassidy" murdering these men but it made my sympathy for her fade by the end of the book. I didn't want her to murder these men, I wanted her to expose them and conquer her other side. The ending was disappointing and seemed kind of like a cop-out, I mean she ends up in a psyche ward. How cliche. With a more solid, interesting ending and slight plot changes this book could've been great! I do plan on reading the first one and third in the series though to see how they measure up.
April 3, 2019
Cassidy Hyde was once a typical popular cheerleader with her school, and town, wrapped around her finger. That is, however, until one unfortunate night that will haunt Cassidy for the rest of her life. Trying to get her life back on track, she finds Sunshine. However Sunshine brought out a side of Cassidy that’s hard to kick and has changed the course of her life forever.
When I first started reading this book, I was really impressed by the way that Cassidy’s depression came across. It seemed very realistic, relatable and very quotable:
“I thought coming to a party would help, but looking back, I wasn’t sure what. My mood? My outlook on life? The invisible gaping wound festering in my chest?”
I don’t usually quote in my reviews, but I feel like it’s important to show how good the portrayal of depression and trauma is. In reality, there is no quick fix to things that have left a wound - both mentally and physically. And so, for that, I congratulate Chandler Baker on a job well done.
However, that wasn’t enough to make up for the fact that the book isn’t very exciting. Of course, issues of mental health and killing people is hardly exciting, but I found myself just wanting more. A book is supposed to be like a rollercoaster, right? Taking you through many ups and downs, but this book constantly stayed on the same level. I’m not sure if it’s because the writing is lacking or because I found it a little too predictable. Maybe it’s because the title gives away exactly what the book is - at least to those who are familiar to Jekyll and Hyde.
The book basically follows Cassidy’s and Marcy’s movement, but not all of them are really that entertaining. One of the things that kept me going is that I hardcore started to ship Marcy and Lena, but again, it’s not really enough. I wasn’t feeling very involved in the book. I just didn’t feel Cassidy’s frustration or Marcy’s bloodlust. It was very lackluster.
The plot is a good take on Jekyll and Hyde. I also saw some inspiration from Saw in there too, but it just wasn’t scary or thrilling. Because of that, I find it hard to rate it more than a three. It just didn’t do anything for me. Overall, I give it a 2.5.
When I first started reading this book, I was really impressed by the way that Cassidy’s depression came across. It seemed very realistic, relatable and very quotable:
“I thought coming to a party would help, but looking back, I wasn’t sure what. My mood? My outlook on life? The invisible gaping wound festering in my chest?”
I don’t usually quote in my reviews, but I feel like it’s important to show how good the portrayal of depression and trauma is. In reality, there is no quick fix to things that have left a wound - both mentally and physically. And so, for that, I congratulate Chandler Baker on a job well done.
However, that wasn’t enough to make up for the fact that the book isn’t very exciting. Of course, issues of mental health and killing people is hardly exciting, but I found myself just wanting more. A book is supposed to be like a rollercoaster, right? Taking you through many ups and downs, but this book constantly stayed on the same level. I’m not sure if it’s because the writing is lacking or because I found it a little too predictable. Maybe it’s because the title gives away exactly what the book is - at least to those who are familiar to Jekyll and Hyde.
The book basically follows Cassidy’s and Marcy’s movement, but not all of them are really that entertaining. One of the things that kept me going is that I hardcore started to ship Marcy and Lena, but again, it’s not really enough. I wasn’t feeling very involved in the book. I just didn’t feel Cassidy’s frustration or Marcy’s bloodlust. It was very lackluster.
The plot is a good take on Jekyll and Hyde. I also saw some inspiration from Saw in there too, but it just wasn’t scary or thrilling. Because of that, I find it hard to rate it more than a three. It just didn’t do anything for me. Overall, I give it a 2.5.
November 25, 2017
Review was originally posted on The Writer's Inkwell
I was excited to find book two of this series. It has been a year since I read Teen Frankenstein and I was looking forward to see what would happen next. Needless to say, I was not disappointed by this book.
It's been several months since the events of book one and the main character is that of Cassidy Hyde. In the wake of Adam's death, Cassidy's life has spiraled out of control. Her family and friends know that something is wrong, but what they don't realize is that Cassidy has a secret. The secret is weighing heavily on Cassidy and when she's given her first taste of Sunshine, she finds herself losing time as her vengeful side steps forward.
I think the author did a great job incorporating a very real modern problem and incorporating into this modern day twist of Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. For the sake of not spoiling the book, I'll be careful not to give away what has happened. But what I can say is that I think the author did a good job addressing this problem. I also felt the handling of Cassidy's Jekyll and Hyde sides were done quite well.
The only thing I was disappointed by is the lack connection to the previous book. Yes, Cassidy mentions Adam and Tor, but I wish there would have been more clarification on what happened to Tor. Last we saw, she's lost her best friend and is all alone. Hopefully, she'll make an appearance in a later book. Maybe she'll continue making monsters. As for Cassidy, I look forward to seeing how her story leads into the next and which classical horror creature will be featured.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a review.
All opinions of the book are my own.
I was excited to find book two of this series. It has been a year since I read Teen Frankenstein and I was looking forward to see what would happen next. Needless to say, I was not disappointed by this book.
It's been several months since the events of book one and the main character is that of Cassidy Hyde. In the wake of Adam's death, Cassidy's life has spiraled out of control. Her family and friends know that something is wrong, but what they don't realize is that Cassidy has a secret. The secret is weighing heavily on Cassidy and when she's given her first taste of Sunshine, she finds herself losing time as her vengeful side steps forward.
I think the author did a great job incorporating a very real modern problem and incorporating into this modern day twist of Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. For the sake of not spoiling the book, I'll be careful not to give away what has happened. But what I can say is that I think the author did a good job addressing this problem. I also felt the handling of Cassidy's Jekyll and Hyde sides were done quite well.
The only thing I was disappointed by is the lack connection to the previous book. Yes, Cassidy mentions Adam and Tor, but I wish there would have been more clarification on what happened to Tor. Last we saw, she's lost her best friend and is all alone. Hopefully, she'll make an appearance in a later book. Maybe she'll continue making monsters. As for Cassidy, I look forward to seeing how her story leads into the next and which classical horror creature will be featured.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a review.
All opinions of the book are my own.
January 18, 2020
My review is quite scattered because I am just writing what I think as I go so...
>The horror aspects felt to real. I loved how the inagery took me to like a massacre movie. My heart was pounding so, I needed a break.
>As well did the pain both Marcy and Cassidy were feeling of the aftermath of the experience, the belittlement and depression vs. the anger and the hate.
>I really saw the drastic changes in both personalities, they weren't subtle as I've seen other interpretations of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
*I really liked Marcy because of just how bold and evil she was. Her bond with Lena, the plans she created (although she could have been more meticulous with her planning).
*I hurt for Cassidy as she learned what was happening. And was just overwhelmed with sadness rather than horror towards the end where I learned she is no longer there. I mean she had a life ahead of her and a pretty darn good one! I could see why she struggled in telling people what was going on.
>I wish we had a better confrontation between Marcy and Cassidy. Similar to the one seen in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. One where she actually battles herself. Perhaps externally?
*I really loved how Cassidy found a way to bring herself back by using her sister! I personally have a strong bond with my sister and would probably do the same. Their dynamic reminded me of my sister and I, how she stands up for her sister seemingly as her guardian angel. If anything that breaks me heart even more! Does Marcy even care for Honor? Honor lost her sister. I can't even imagine...
Well written. I loved it!
>The horror aspects felt to real. I loved how the inagery took me to like a massacre movie. My heart was pounding so, I needed a break.
>As well did the pain both Marcy and Cassidy were feeling of the aftermath of the experience, the belittlement and depression vs. the anger and the hate.
>I really saw the drastic changes in both personalities, they weren't subtle as I've seen other interpretations of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
*I really liked Marcy because of just how bold and evil she was. Her bond with Lena, the plans she created (although she could have been more meticulous with her planning).
*I hurt for Cassidy as she learned what was happening. And was just overwhelmed with sadness rather than horror towards the end where I learned she is no longer there. I mean she had a life ahead of her and a pretty darn good one! I could see why she struggled in telling people what was going on.
>I wish we had a better confrontation between Marcy and Cassidy. Similar to the one seen in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. One where she actually battles herself. Perhaps externally?
*I really loved how Cassidy found a way to bring herself back by using her sister! I personally have a strong bond with my sister and would probably do the same. Their dynamic reminded me of my sister and I, how she stands up for her sister seemingly as her guardian angel. If anything that breaks me heart even more! Does Marcy even care for Honor? Honor lost her sister. I can't even imagine...
Well written. I loved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
I think it’s important to note that this book is a very graphic horror book, but was honestly really enjoyable for me to read.
This book is about a teen girl who’s depression from the death of her boyfriend evolves into DID which is also known as Multiple Personality Disorder. And honestly Im really pissed at the parents for not handling the depression stage better.
Also it is important to note that Cassidy is not a bad person, but rather a good person with bad things happen to them.
DID is (and I’m only saying this because I am a complete and utter psychology nerd 😘) caused by a traumatic event. When something bad or scary happens, your unconscious mind enters a confused state because so many negative things occurred that the brain doesn’t know how to move forward. So, the mind puts all of its anger, fear, sadness into a different personality and that alternate personality is most likely very unstable. And, the only one aware of the other personality is the extra one, so, most of the time, the second personality is able to get rid of the first one and take over their mind if they are not able to get help.
Also, just an FYI, the “Sunshine” drug she took only effected her because it made her happier, so all that sadness and anger was pushed to the back of her mind where it evolved into another personality.
Anyways it was a really fun and psychologically investing story, and I’m sorry if my brain dump was annoying or uninteresting. I definitely recommend, BUT FOR AGES 16-UP. I DONT KNOW HOW THIS GOT INTO MY MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY BUT IM WARNING YOU… YOU CAN NEVER UNREAD A BOOK, (and it’s not scary but there’s a lot of scary things that happen)
This book is about a teen girl who’s depression from the death of her boyfriend evolves into DID which is also known as Multiple Personality Disorder. And honestly Im really pissed at the parents for not handling the depression stage better.
Also it is important to note that Cassidy is not a bad person, but rather a good person with bad things happen to them.
DID is (and I’m only saying this because I am a complete and utter psychology nerd 😘) caused by a traumatic event. When something bad or scary happens, your unconscious mind enters a confused state because so many negative things occurred that the brain doesn’t know how to move forward. So, the mind puts all of its anger, fear, sadness into a different personality and that alternate personality is most likely very unstable. And, the only one aware of the other personality is the extra one, so, most of the time, the second personality is able to get rid of the first one and take over their mind if they are not able to get help.
Also, just an FYI, the “Sunshine” drug she took only effected her because it made her happier, so all that sadness and anger was pushed to the back of her mind where it evolved into another personality.
Anyways it was a really fun and psychologically investing story, and I’m sorry if my brain dump was annoying or uninteresting. I definitely recommend, BUT FOR AGES 16-UP. I DONT KNOW HOW THIS GOT INTO MY MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY BUT IM WARNING YOU… YOU CAN NEVER UNREAD A BOOK, (and it’s not scary but there’s a lot of scary things that happen)
December 20, 2022
This book was an intriguing thriller that kept me hooked and filled with questions. I am assuming that Sunshine wasn’t to blame for the creation of Marcy, but rather it triggered a psychotic break. I am not sure how a happy drug that never had any ill-effects on anyone else could do that, but I’ll just chalk it up to drugs really be out here fucking up brain chemistry. That makes more sense to me than a drug being responsible for everything, especially how Marcy was taking over. One question that is bugging me is how/where/when Cassidy learned the creepy nursery rhyme that Marcy sang while hunting because I feel like that is something Honor would know too, and seeing it written on the mirror would set off alarm bells.
I kept picturing what possible ending this story could have, and when I first started reading the last chapter I was disappointed that it was anti-climatic, but then as I read on, I took that thought back. I don’t really feel like the story was resolved but I’m okay with that. I think the feeling of lack of closure is supposed to reflect Marcy’s lack of closure knowing that Tate survived. Interesting.
Also, not that this is relevant, but I think Marcy choose that name for herself because it is a play on Mercy, which the boys didn’t show her so she wouldn’t show any either.
I kept picturing what possible ending this story could have, and when I first started reading the last chapter I was disappointed that it was anti-climatic, but then as I read on, I took that thought back. I don’t really feel like the story was resolved but I’m okay with that. I think the feeling of lack of closure is supposed to reflect Marcy’s lack of closure knowing that Tate survived. Interesting.
Also, not that this is relevant, but I think Marcy choose that name for herself because it is a play on Mercy, which the boys didn’t show her so she wouldn’t show any either.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2018
It was an ok read. I don't see myself rechecking it out or buying it.
Cassidy Hyde is your typical superficial popular girl with a reputation of her being super easy. Talked into going to a party with her "friends," Cassidy tries to enjoy herself but can't, not until she's given Sunshine. Suddenly, Cassidy Hyde is back to her normal self. But like with all drugs, Cassidy is hit with some bad side effects. She can't seem to remember things and it seems that something sinister happened the night of the party. There's another side of Cassidy that no one knows and she's far deadlier then anyone could imagine. As Cassidy began to spiral out of control, she tries her best to put that night behind her, but the other "Cassidy" won't let her. The Cassidy wants vengeance and control, and she will have her way whether Cassidy wants her to or not.
For a YA novel I saw this more of a thriller than a horror story. The plot was a good spin on Jekyll/Hyde. I would have love to seen this as an adult fiction novel.
Cassidy Hyde is your typical superficial popular girl with a reputation of her being super easy. Talked into going to a party with her "friends," Cassidy tries to enjoy herself but can't, not until she's given Sunshine. Suddenly, Cassidy Hyde is back to her normal self. But like with all drugs, Cassidy is hit with some bad side effects. She can't seem to remember things and it seems that something sinister happened the night of the party. There's another side of Cassidy that no one knows and she's far deadlier then anyone could imagine. As Cassidy began to spiral out of control, she tries her best to put that night behind her, but the other "Cassidy" won't let her. The Cassidy wants vengeance and control, and she will have her way whether Cassidy wants her to or not.
For a YA novel I saw this more of a thriller than a horror story. The plot was a good spin on Jekyll/Hyde. I would have love to seen this as an adult fiction novel.
June 12, 2017
Cassidy Hyde has carefully crafted her life into the teen dream - head cheerleader, homecoming queen, liked by all. But she has a secret she hasn't even revealed to her best friend, and when she experiments with a drug at a party, she starts waking up in strange circumstances. But her life is so much better on Sunshine that her memory loss is acceptable, right?
I've always liked The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, so it's not surprising that I enjoyed this retelling. The writing isn't the strongest, and it follows the original really closely, though, which was a little disappointing. This would be great as a classroom readalike, but on it's own, it's enjoyable but not noteworthy.
I've always liked The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, so it's not surprising that I enjoyed this retelling. The writing isn't the strongest, and it follows the original really closely, though, which was a little disappointing. This would be great as a classroom readalike, but on it's own, it's enjoyable but not noteworthy.
May 20, 2018
It kept me engaged, and the premise was interesting, but considering it felt like it should be a thriller, it wasn't very thrilling. Every twist was predictable and there weren't any great characters.
Its a good thing it was such a quick easy read because otherwise I don't think I would have kept going.
Honestly I still liked it enough, but critically it's not good.
As far as a retelling of Dr Jekyll, Mr Hyde goes, it really bugs me that the main characters name was Cassidy Hyde even before the transformation started.
I felt truly sorry for Cassidy and all the awful shit she went through but she was still a very bland character.
Maybe a much younger reader would like it, but as the story deals with rape, murder and drug use, I would be hesidant to recommend to the them too.
Its a good thing it was such a quick easy read because otherwise I don't think I would have kept going.
Honestly I still liked it enough, but critically it's not good.
As far as a retelling of Dr Jekyll, Mr Hyde goes, it really bugs me that the main characters name was Cassidy Hyde even before the transformation started.
I felt truly sorry for Cassidy and all the awful shit she went through but she was still a very bland character.
Maybe a much younger reader would like it, but as the story deals with rape, murder and drug use, I would be hesidant to recommend to the them too.
October 27, 2018
This was extremely... problematic.
I’m extremely uncomfortable after finishing and it’s been more rehab a day.
When an author uses rape to justify a split personality where one personality is a smiley cheerleader and the other personality is an actual homicidal psychopath grounding college rapists to death in a conveyor belt I have questions.
And concerns.
It was a dangerous and quite frankly disturbing way to portray coping with rape.
Even after that the characters are actual paper bags filled with random traits.
So no I did not enjoy this book.
Not trying to be mean but the best part might of been the cover.
I’m extremely uncomfortable after finishing and it’s been more rehab a day.
When an author uses rape to justify a split personality where one personality is a smiley cheerleader and the other personality is an actual homicidal psychopath grounding college rapists to death in a conveyor belt I have questions.
And concerns.
It was a dangerous and quite frankly disturbing way to portray coping with rape.
Even after that the characters are actual paper bags filled with random traits.
So no I did not enjoy this book.
Not trying to be mean but the best part might of been the cover.
May 20, 2017
DNF
So the main character of this one can be summed up in the following words: bleh, meh, and sigh.
I gave it a try, and it wasn't for me. Maybe that's because it's a #2, but honestly the two stories sound separate enough (not really overlapping with characters as much as the school as a whole) that it shouldn't be an issue.
Love the whole Jekyll/Hyde thing, but this one is going to be a pass for me. One star rating is mostly for my own benefit to show that I tried it and didn't like it.
So the main character of this one can be summed up in the following words: bleh, meh, and sigh.
I gave it a try, and it wasn't for me. Maybe that's because it's a #2, but honestly the two stories sound separate enough (not really overlapping with characters as much as the school as a whole) that it shouldn't be an issue.
Love the whole Jekyll/Hyde thing, but this one is going to be a pass for me. One star rating is mostly for my own benefit to show that I tried it and didn't like it.
May 21, 2018
I really enjoyed "Teen Frankenstein," so was looking forward to this book. Unfortunately, it just didn't measure up to my expectations or to the caliber of "...Frankenstein." I didn't care about the main character at all and especially didn't appreciate the drug use or occasional lesbian overtones towards the end. And to say the ending was a complete downer would be the understatement of the year. It was truly disappointing and I can honestly say there isn't one thing I liked about this book.
October 23, 2018
I really like how this book is not only a re-skin of Jekyll and Hyde. While reading this book, i found myself thinking more about the plot more than any other book. But in a good way. I also loved how there were twists and turns, especially when we find out that when Cassidy takes "Sunshine", we find out she has two personalities! Teen Hyde, made me want to read more and more the further i got into the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
January 25, 2020I won an advanced reading copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily.
So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to a “take-one, leave-one” free library box so someone else may enjoy this book too.
So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to a “take-one, leave-one” free library box so someone else may enjoy this book too.
Read
May 18, 2020What a thriller! Although this book was horrific, I really enjoyed reading it. The book is about a high school girl going through many disasters, but she seems to know how to pull herself together and get battle every problem she faces. I would definitely recommend this book to anybody who is interested in horror, fiction, or drama.
January 22, 2021
1. I didn’t know this was a sequel until I started reading it. While you could read it as a stand alone, there were parts where it would have been really helpful to know what happened in the first book.
2. Just not for me. This is a modern high school version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Some parts were (maybe) supposed to be funny, but it was really just dark.
2. Just not for me. This is a modern high school version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Some parts were (maybe) supposed to be funny, but it was really just dark.
December 4, 2021
This book kept me on the edge of my seat and made me fail a few algebra assignments. The first chapter was just okay, but it quickly hooked me like a gullible fish.
The only issue I have with it is the ending being cheesy, but it sure made me think a lot about what could or should have happened, just like the original Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (a similar tragedy).
The only issue I have with it is the ending being cheesy, but it sure made me think a lot about what could or should have happened, just like the original Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (a similar tragedy).
September 22, 2017
Teen Hyde just looked like a fun creepy book....and it was. Baker does a good job of explaining the two parts of the main character (Cassidy and Marcy). There is murder and mayhem and intrigue....it is a fun, quick read for teens who enjoy horror stories.
December 16, 2023
This book is dark!
I think it takes a lot to keep me interested when the main character is a high school girl cheerleader. But, Chandler Baker does a great job of creating a story that any horror fan will enjoy.
I'll definitely read her other High School Horrors.
I think it takes a lot to keep me interested when the main character is a high school girl cheerleader. But, Chandler Baker does a great job of creating a story that any horror fan will enjoy.
I'll definitely read her other High School Horrors.
April 11, 2018
An interesting take on an old story with an ending I haven't seen in quite some time.
April 21, 2018
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde with a Saw twist. This modern version of the classic split personality is very dark but very good. I strongly recommend it for mature readers
(drug use and violence ensue).
(drug use and violence ensue).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews