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Schasm #1
Schasm
Chloe Valcourt drifts between two worlds: the dark reality of her domineering mother and feeble father and the vivid fantasy of her imagination. With her condition comes the harsh observation of doctors who intend to cure her of it. But a chance encounter with a handsome and vaguely familiar young man in her dream world hints at the possibility of hidden truths—and a life she can’t remember. As her drifts become a greater escape from the cruelty of the real world, Chloe finds herself lost between what is real and what is imagined, questioning her very existence. Can she remain in the lush new imagined landscape to find happiness in a realm of her own invention? Is she doomed to return to the harsh reality of the outside world forever? Or will she become trapped somewhere between the two…unable to return to either?
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2014
11 people are currently reading
2355 people want to read
About the author
Shari J. Ryan
65 books2,012 followersShari J. Ryan is a USA Today and International Bestselling Author of over 40 novels, with more than 700,000 copies sold and translations in 13 languages. She writes emotionally evocative WWII fiction inspired by true stories that have resonated with readers around the globe. Her work has earned Top 100, Top 10, and #1 chart rankings, as well as two Rone Awards.
As the granddaughter and great-granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, Shari brings a deeply personal connection to her work. Her stories are rooted in truth and remembrance, written to ensure history is never forgotten.
For Shari, writing is more than a passion; it is her way of expressing herself and connecting with others. She strives to share every emotion she experiences with each reader who picks up one of her books.
Shari holds a bachelor's degree from Johnson & Wales University and began her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer until 2012, when she discovered her true calling in novels.
Some of Shari’s bestselling books include The Nurse Behind the Gates, The Stolen Twins, The Bookseller of Dachau, The Doctor’s Daughter, and The Last Words Series—gripping stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
A lifelong Boston girl, Shari now lives in a small town in the suburbs with her adored husband and two incredible sons, who make her feel like the luckiest woman in the world.
As the granddaughter and great-granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, Shari brings a deeply personal connection to her work. Her stories are rooted in truth and remembrance, written to ensure history is never forgotten.
For Shari, writing is more than a passion; it is her way of expressing herself and connecting with others. She strives to share every emotion she experiences with each reader who picks up one of her books.
Shari holds a bachelor's degree from Johnson & Wales University and began her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer until 2012, when she discovered her true calling in novels.
Some of Shari’s bestselling books include The Nurse Behind the Gates, The Stolen Twins, The Bookseller of Dachau, The Doctor’s Daughter, and The Last Words Series—gripping stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
A lifelong Boston girl, Shari now lives in a small town in the suburbs with her adored husband and two incredible sons, who make her feel like the luckiest woman in the world.
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January 1, 2025I'm a little biased, but I sorta love my book. <3
January 29, 2014
Okay so I have read a lot of NA books but I have never ever read one like this. I mean right from the beginning I was thinking this is a mind cluster and holy hell where is this going and why are these people acting like that? The more I read the more I was like holy hell what is going on and then BAM it hit me our main character has two worlds.
See Chloe lives with her mother and her mother does not let her out of the house except to go to the asylum. Chloe has nothing but her imagination and boy oh boy does she use her imagination to conjure up a gorgeous guy Alex. But is Alex real or is she just imagining him? Can Chloe really be insane or is it her mother full of secrets and lies? Chloe knows she can't count on her father because he is sickly.
One thing Chloe does know is that every time she dreams about Alex she is happy. She wants to stay that way but she is not sure what tomorrow will bring so she learns to cling to the moment and enjoy Alex as best she can. Alex is her lifeline and her only friend. They share so much but when something happens Chloe will have to take a close look at her reality and when she does what will she find? Will Alex be real or will he be fake?
this is such a mind blowing read that I was breathless after reading it. It took me a while to write this review because I kept writing things and deleting them because I did not want to give to much away because this is one book you have to read to really appreciate it and the how the story unfolds. I need book two like ASAP!
See Chloe lives with her mother and her mother does not let her out of the house except to go to the asylum. Chloe has nothing but her imagination and boy oh boy does she use her imagination to conjure up a gorgeous guy Alex. But is Alex real or is she just imagining him? Can Chloe really be insane or is it her mother full of secrets and lies? Chloe knows she can't count on her father because he is sickly.
One thing Chloe does know is that every time she dreams about Alex she is happy. She wants to stay that way but she is not sure what tomorrow will bring so she learns to cling to the moment and enjoy Alex as best she can. Alex is her lifeline and her only friend. They share so much but when something happens Chloe will have to take a close look at her reality and when she does what will she find? Will Alex be real or will he be fake?
this is such a mind blowing read that I was breathless after reading it. It took me a while to write this review because I kept writing things and deleting them because I did not want to give to much away because this is one book you have to read to really appreciate it and the how the story unfolds. I need book two like ASAP!
October 29, 2014
This was possibly the most disturbing book I’ve ever read, but also incredibly thought provoking and compelling. I sat for a long time after I finished reading and just contemplated the possibilities of what I had read. This book left me with more questions than answers. I can’t say with any certainty which parts were reality and which were fantasy–the line between the two was a blur. Mental illness is a scary topic to explore. The human mind is a fragile thing and the author did a fabulous job of demonstrating this fragility through Chloe. The question of whether committing a normal person to a mental institution could actually cause psychosis or insanity is a plausible argument. Since the story was told from Chloe’s perspective, I didn’t really believe her “condition” was an illness. The people she should have been able to trust most–her mother and doctor–were manipulating and controlling her through mind altering drugs and sedatives. Couldn’t that happen to anyone? If a doctor says you’re mentally ill and you say you’re not–who is everyone going to believe? What a terrifying thought! After finishing the book though, I had to remind myself that the story was told from Chloe’s perspective. If it had been told from someone else’s perspective, I would probably have agreed that she was crazy. After all, she does “drift” in and out of alternate realities. I will probably still be thinking about this book for weeks to come. I loved it–highly recommended!!
Originally posted at the Author Alliance
Originally posted at the Author Alliance
August 15, 2014
Holy...what just happened?! I've been totally and completely mind f%#ked. I need a second book. Is there a second book. Damn. How will I recover from that?
May 11, 2015
3.5 Drifting Stars!!
OH, WHAT. THE. FUCK?!?!?!?!
What the hell was that ending? OMG! I have no idea!!! No idea what I am feeling right now. Talk about a MIND FUCK!! I have no idea how to pull together a review. I HAVE NO IDEA!!!
I liked it... but OMG my head hurts from all the questions I have!! <---So, those were my initial thoughts when I came on here right after finishing and word vomited all over the place!!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I have collected my thoughts now… somewhat!! :) This is one of those really tough reviews to write because there are things about this book that I really liked, almost loved, however, there were also things that I didn’t like could have been better.
What’s it about anyway?
Basically, Chloe is a nineteen year old girl who “drifts.” Drifting is like dreaming…but better. Unlike regular dreams, while drifting, she has all of her senses like smell, taste, and touch. They are also more vivid than regular dreams and, because her regular life is so terrible, her drift time is where her best life occurs. Chloe’s parents are horrible, neglectful people who just think she is crazy and an embarrassment to the family and, as a result, have her pretty much locked away. The only time that she ever gets to go anywhere, is when her mom hauls her over to see her shrink.
While Chloe is drifting, she meets Alex…who seems strangely familiar to her. Alex drifts too. While drifting together, Alex and Chloe get to explore different places together like San Diego and Paris. Chloe becomes so fascinated with drifting, spending time with Alex, and with the wonderful things that they get to experience together that she gets obsessed with it.
”No one has ever looked at me as anything more than a mental case, and no one has ever found me to be attractive.”
But one day, Chloe injures herself during a drift and her parents freak out and have her committed to the mental intuition. Her doctors give her meds to block her ability to drift. She also learns that Alex is very much real, but a fellow patient at the mental institution as well.
OK people, this is where it starts getting FUCKED UP!! I will not say much. Just know that, Chloe becomes desperate and does things that are questionable in order to maintain her ability to drift. Soon, her “best life” becomes her worst nightmare.
Starting with the good –
The concept for this book is FUCKING BRILLIANT!!! How someone could think this plot up just amazes me! I have always pondered the idea of our dreams and what they mean and loved being able to explore this idea with this book. I cannot compare this book to anything else that I have ever read. But, it did remind me of the films Inception and Vanilla Sky, both of which, I loved.
The writing is also very good, especially for a debut. This book really made me think and kept me guessing the ENTIRE time, like a good psychological thriller should do.
The not so good-
- First of all, I needed more romance. This may have just been something that bothered me and may not bother all readers. There is a definite undertone of romance. A lot of the things being done by these characters is in the name of love but, me personally, I just would’ve liked more.
- Character Development – This is definitely a plot driven book, as opposed to being character driven. Even so, I just needed to know more about these characters. For example, besides the fact that the main character Chloe drifts, we know very little about her. Did she ever go to school or was she homeschooled? What are her hobbies? As a result, I had trouble connecting with her.
- There were aspects of the ending that, for me, just got to the point of confusing. I understand an elusive and mysterious plot, but it got to the point that I was confused and having trouble keeping up and was just like “WTF”?
With all of the above being said, I did like the book and would still recommend it to others. I have never read anything as creative as this story was and I cannot wait to read the second book, out soon. I just think that there was huge potential for this story to be better and, had some of my issues above been non-existent, it would’ve taken this book from good to spectacular, for me.
Again, if you are looking for a truly different read that will kidnap your mind and hi-jack your thoughts, give Schasm a try. I am looking forward to seeing where this story goes next…
”I want to cry because I’m happy, because someone wants me to be me, because he has been the one person who has always cared enough to never lose sight of me and to never give up on me. I’ve never had something in my life that actually feels this true” – Chloe
I reviewed an ARC of this book, provided by BookTrope, in exchange for an honest review.
OH, WHAT. THE. FUCK?!?!?!?!
What the hell was that ending? OMG! I have no idea!!! No idea what I am feeling right now. Talk about a MIND FUCK!! I have no idea how to pull together a review. I HAVE NO IDEA!!!
I liked it... but OMG my head hurts from all the questions I have!! <---So, those were my initial thoughts when I came on here right after finishing and word vomited all over the place!!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I have collected my thoughts now… somewhat!! :) This is one of those really tough reviews to write because there are things about this book that I really liked, almost loved, however, there were also things that
What’s it about anyway?
Basically, Chloe is a nineteen year old girl who “drifts.” Drifting is like dreaming…but better. Unlike regular dreams, while drifting, she has all of her senses like smell, taste, and touch. They are also more vivid than regular dreams and, because her regular life is so terrible, her drift time is where her best life occurs. Chloe’s parents are horrible, neglectful people who just think she is crazy and an embarrassment to the family and, as a result, have her pretty much locked away. The only time that she ever gets to go anywhere, is when her mom hauls her over to see her shrink.
While Chloe is drifting, she meets Alex…who seems strangely familiar to her. Alex drifts too. While drifting together, Alex and Chloe get to explore different places together like San Diego and Paris. Chloe becomes so fascinated with drifting, spending time with Alex, and with the wonderful things that they get to experience together that she gets obsessed with it.
”No one has ever looked at me as anything more than a mental case, and no one has ever found me to be attractive.”
But one day, Chloe injures herself during a drift and her parents freak out and have her committed to the mental intuition. Her doctors give her meds to block her ability to drift. She also learns that Alex is very much real, but a fellow patient at the mental institution as well.
OK people, this is where it starts getting FUCKED UP!! I will not say much. Just know that, Chloe becomes desperate and does things that are questionable in order to maintain her ability to drift. Soon, her “best life” becomes her worst nightmare.
Starting with the good –
The concept for this book is FUCKING BRILLIANT!!! How someone could think this plot up just amazes me! I have always pondered the idea of our dreams and what they mean and loved being able to explore this idea with this book. I cannot compare this book to anything else that I have ever read. But, it did remind me of the films Inception and Vanilla Sky, both of which, I loved.
The writing is also very good, especially for a debut. This book really made me think and kept me guessing the ENTIRE time, like a good psychological thriller should do.
The not so good-
- First of all, I needed more romance. This may have just been something that bothered me and may not bother all readers. There is a definite undertone of romance. A lot of the things being done by these characters is in the name of love but, me personally, I just would’ve liked more.
- Character Development – This is definitely a plot driven book, as opposed to being character driven. Even so, I just needed to know more about these characters. For example, besides the fact that the main character Chloe drifts, we know very little about her. Did she ever go to school or was she homeschooled? What are her hobbies? As a result, I had trouble connecting with her.
- There were aspects of the ending that, for me, just got to the point of confusing. I understand an elusive and mysterious plot, but it got to the point that I was confused and having trouble keeping up and was just like “WTF”?
With all of the above being said, I did like the book and would still recommend it to others. I have never read anything as creative as this story was and I cannot wait to read the second book, out soon. I just think that there was huge potential for this story to be better and, had some of my issues above been non-existent, it would’ve taken this book from good to spectacular, for me.
Again, if you are looking for a truly different read that will kidnap your mind and hi-jack your thoughts, give Schasm a try. I am looking forward to seeing where this story goes next…
”I want to cry because I’m happy, because someone wants me to be me, because he has been the one person who has always cared enough to never lose sight of me and to never give up on me. I’ve never had something in my life that actually feels this true” – Chloe
I reviewed an ARC of this book, provided by BookTrope, in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2013
I've been thoroughly mind f@&ked. A great book - just when you think you got it all figured out, you're slapped with another level of "what the hell just happened."
I need book 2 yesterday.
*bows* to Shari. You wrote a great story!
I need book 2 yesterday.
*bows* to Shari. You wrote a great story!
July 18, 2017
SCREAMS
FINALLY!!!!!! A GOOD BOOK!!!!!!
Y'all, I reviewed like three or four terrible books in a row and I was starting to lose even more faith in humanity. But this book. This. Book. Fucking SAVED. MY. SOUL.
Oh my God, okay, so this book is like nothing I've ever read before. Sure, I've read plenty of mental illness/asylum stories. I don't think it really qualifies as a sort of genre, but either way, for some reason, I love the dark aspects behind most mental illness stories. But this one in particular is like nothing I've /ever/ read before.
Schasm is about a 19-year-old girl, Chloe, who is basically a prisoner in her own home thanks to her "disorder." Many of us daydream and wish we were in different places (or heck, even eras), but Chloe takes daydreaming one step further. She can actually transport herself to the place and/or era she's thinking about, if she concentrates hard enough. She calls it "drifting." However, instead of seeing her drifting as a gift, her mother forces her to believe that drifting is a curse. As a result, Chloe does not have any friends and isn't even allowed to leave her house without strict supervision.
I won't go into much more detail besides that, because I don't want to spoil the book for anyone who might be interested, but my God. Not only is Schasm one of the best mental illness books I've ever read, it's also one of the best books I've read dealing in parallel/alternate universes—which is a breath of fresh air compared to the parallel universe book I reviewed just a week or so ago that was a fucking train wreck. Hell, I even got some Stephen King vibes during the climax. And, if you know me, you know that Stephen King is basically my favorite author of all time.
There were a few editing errors in this book—spelling, mainly—but they were few and far between, as far as I could tell. Overall, the techniques used—especially the imagery—absolutely took my breath away. This is one of those books where the characters felt as real as you or me.
And guess what?
NO FUCKING LOVE TRIANGLES!
*bows at Shari J. Ryan's feet*
Overall, compared to all thetrash not-so-great books I've read within the past few days, this book was a breath of fresh air. The buildup was a tad slow at first, but if you want something different, and slightly horrifying, then I definitely recommended,
FINALLY!!!!!! A GOOD BOOK!!!!!!
Y'all, I reviewed like three or four terrible books in a row and I was starting to lose
Oh my God, okay, so this book is like nothing I've ever read before. Sure, I've read plenty of mental illness/asylum stories. I don't think it really qualifies as a sort of genre, but either way, for some reason, I love the dark aspects behind most mental illness stories. But this one in particular is like nothing I've /ever/ read before.
Schasm is about a 19-year-old girl, Chloe, who is basically a prisoner in her own home thanks to her "disorder." Many of us daydream and wish we were in different places (or heck, even eras), but Chloe takes daydreaming one step further. She can actually transport herself to the place and/or era she's thinking about, if she concentrates hard enough. She calls it "drifting." However, instead of seeing her drifting as a gift, her mother forces her to believe that drifting is a curse. As a result, Chloe does not have any friends and isn't even allowed to leave her house without strict supervision.
I won't go into much more detail besides that, because I don't want to spoil the book for anyone who might be interested, but my God. Not only is Schasm one of the best mental illness books I've ever read, it's also one of the best books I've read dealing in parallel/alternate universes—which is a breath of fresh air compared to the parallel universe book I reviewed just a week or so ago that was a fucking train wreck. Hell, I even got some Stephen King vibes during the climax. And, if you know me, you know that Stephen King is basically my favorite author of all time.
There were a few editing errors in this book—spelling, mainly—but they were few and far between, as far as I could tell. Overall, the techniques used—especially the imagery—absolutely took my breath away. This is one of those books where the characters felt as real as you or me.
And guess what?
NO FUCKING LOVE TRIANGLES!
*bows at Shari J. Ryan's feet*
Overall, compared to all the
January 28, 2014
Find This and Other Reviews At Craves The Angst.
Schasm is book one in the Schasm Series and is a Young Adult Romance written by Shari J. Ryan. I received this eARC from Booktrope Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Absorbing, Pensive Stars!
Dark, Dramatic and Downright Daunting! A Sharp, Riveting Read That Will Keep You Guessing From Beginning To End!
Quote Spotlight...
“I think I’ve just entered an entirely new dimension of misperception.”
The Review:
In her debut novel, Shari J. Ryan writes an exquisite story filled with emotion, tension and an enduring romance. Its genre is Young Adult, but this book will engage and compel all ages.
I want to express how amazing this read is. It immediately captured my attention and kept me submerged with its intense, dramatic and dark story. It was never really confusing but it surely kept me wondering as every time I thought I figured out what was going on, I was thrown a new startling twist, then another strange series of events would slap me silly and take me on one heck of a mind trip. And I loved every phantasmagorical moment!
I don't want to be too revealing in this review because I feel that giving too much of the content away will spoil the experience for you so I'm going to just give you the basics along with my thoughts.
The Rundown...
Nineteen year old Chloe Valcourt calls her ability drifting but her doctors call it temporary fugue-state dissociation which they compare to a mild case of schizophrenia and have told her there is no cure. When she closes her eyes, she can drift from her secluded, drab reality where she’s basically held captive by her overbearing and scornful mother to fantastical places where she’s free and alive and allowed to really experience all that life has to offer. She’s been this way for as long as she can remember and since the age of seven, when she told her mother about her new “friends” from her drifts, Chloe’s mother insisted on seeking her medical help. So each week her mother, thinking her “disability” abnormal, takes her to a psychiatric clinic for tests and treatment as she persuasively flirts with the doctors, curving Chloe’s treatment to her desires.
Chloe just wants to be left alone to drift in and out of her world, the places she creates for herself, the fantasies she can play out in her own head and live the life she’s been denied for the last twelve years. She might be alone and unable to interact with the people in her drifts but at least she can experience something other than the four walls of her imprisonment.
Then in one of her drifts, she meets a handsome stranger with a familiar air about him who tells her he’s like her and he’ll teach her to control her ability. This one event changes everything for Chloe and sends her on a spectacular adventure filled with danger, romance and intrigue.
Thoughts...
This story plays out like the events in Chloe’s mind are legitimate, the people are real and the situations and danger is factual. And what I absolutely loved about this read was you question everything!
You never know what is real and what's made up. Are the experiences Chloe is having really real? Is Chloe really as mentally unstable as the doctors would have you believe she is? Her mother is a sinister presence in her life, warping her treatment and her environment to keep Chloe under thumb, but is there more to it than a mentally unstable girl who likes to live in her dreams? Or... are we, the readers, trapped in her mind throughout the entire book with her, living through the events as they unfold around her. Is Chloe’s mind playing out scenarios to help her deal? Is her disability trying to convince her to stay in the drifts or could she really have a unique ability unlike most. You. Just. Never. Know! Which is brilliant.
Every event, every illusion... it all seemed relevant with a hidden message but at the same time, farcical in the extreme. I literally couldn’t suss out what was real and what was a hallucination and I'm still not convinced any of it was truth, which must have been what it was like for Chloe.
What if you couldn't trust your own mind and you didn’t know reality from dream. Which reality would you choose to stay in and how far would you go to get what you wanted. These are the questions that are so expertly raised in this fantastically written novel that’s disturbing, emotional, thrilling and adventurous all wrapped around a romance that left me enthralled. There were moments when her dire circumstances ripped through my emotion and I felt pulled down into the bottomless chasm Chloe was drifting through. Thats excellent writing, right there!
The Wrap Up:
The mind and what it can create is a truly wondrous thing. One’s imagination can take them to soaring heights, thrill them in the darkest of situations and conjure up fantastical images when things seem desperate and lonely. This read will have you questioning every event, everyones actions, everyones reactions and make you think long and hard about what's real and what's illusion. And that ending! It was abrupt and shocking but left me needing to know what happens next. I can’t wait for book two, Fissured Free! I'm definitely a fan...
Schasm is book one in the Schasm Series and is a Young Adult Romance written by Shari J. Ryan. I received this eARC from Booktrope Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Absorbing, Pensive Stars!
Dark, Dramatic and Downright Daunting! A Sharp, Riveting Read That Will Keep You Guessing From Beginning To End!
Quote Spotlight...
“I think I’ve just entered an entirely new dimension of misperception.”
The Review:
In her debut novel, Shari J. Ryan writes an exquisite story filled with emotion, tension and an enduring romance. Its genre is Young Adult, but this book will engage and compel all ages.
I want to express how amazing this read is. It immediately captured my attention and kept me submerged with its intense, dramatic and dark story. It was never really confusing but it surely kept me wondering as every time I thought I figured out what was going on, I was thrown a new startling twist, then another strange series of events would slap me silly and take me on one heck of a mind trip. And I loved every phantasmagorical moment!
I don't want to be too revealing in this review because I feel that giving too much of the content away will spoil the experience for you so I'm going to just give you the basics along with my thoughts.
The Rundown...
Nineteen year old Chloe Valcourt calls her ability drifting but her doctors call it temporary fugue-state dissociation which they compare to a mild case of schizophrenia and have told her there is no cure. When she closes her eyes, she can drift from her secluded, drab reality where she’s basically held captive by her overbearing and scornful mother to fantastical places where she’s free and alive and allowed to really experience all that life has to offer. She’s been this way for as long as she can remember and since the age of seven, when she told her mother about her new “friends” from her drifts, Chloe’s mother insisted on seeking her medical help. So each week her mother, thinking her “disability” abnormal, takes her to a psychiatric clinic for tests and treatment as she persuasively flirts with the doctors, curving Chloe’s treatment to her desires.
Chloe just wants to be left alone to drift in and out of her world, the places she creates for herself, the fantasies she can play out in her own head and live the life she’s been denied for the last twelve years. She might be alone and unable to interact with the people in her drifts but at least she can experience something other than the four walls of her imprisonment.
Then in one of her drifts, she meets a handsome stranger with a familiar air about him who tells her he’s like her and he’ll teach her to control her ability. This one event changes everything for Chloe and sends her on a spectacular adventure filled with danger, romance and intrigue.
Thoughts...
This story plays out like the events in Chloe’s mind are legitimate, the people are real and the situations and danger is factual. And what I absolutely loved about this read was you question everything!
You never know what is real and what's made up. Are the experiences Chloe is having really real? Is Chloe really as mentally unstable as the doctors would have you believe she is? Her mother is a sinister presence in her life, warping her treatment and her environment to keep Chloe under thumb, but is there more to it than a mentally unstable girl who likes to live in her dreams? Or... are we, the readers, trapped in her mind throughout the entire book with her, living through the events as they unfold around her. Is Chloe’s mind playing out scenarios to help her deal? Is her disability trying to convince her to stay in the drifts or could she really have a unique ability unlike most. You. Just. Never. Know! Which is brilliant.
Every event, every illusion... it all seemed relevant with a hidden message but at the same time, farcical in the extreme. I literally couldn’t suss out what was real and what was a hallucination and I'm still not convinced any of it was truth, which must have been what it was like for Chloe.
What if you couldn't trust your own mind and you didn’t know reality from dream. Which reality would you choose to stay in and how far would you go to get what you wanted. These are the questions that are so expertly raised in this fantastically written novel that’s disturbing, emotional, thrilling and adventurous all wrapped around a romance that left me enthralled. There were moments when her dire circumstances ripped through my emotion and I felt pulled down into the bottomless chasm Chloe was drifting through. Thats excellent writing, right there!
The Wrap Up:
The mind and what it can create is a truly wondrous thing. One’s imagination can take them to soaring heights, thrill them in the darkest of situations and conjure up fantastical images when things seem desperate and lonely. This read will have you questioning every event, everyones actions, everyones reactions and make you think long and hard about what's real and what's illusion. And that ending! It was abrupt and shocking but left me needing to know what happens next. I can’t wait for book two, Fissured Free! I'm definitely a fan...
September 4, 2014
Thank you to the author and to the We Love YA Books group for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I must admit that at some point I was confused by the back and forth between Chloe's two worlds but I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The story centers on Chloe and her wonderful imagination that lands her in the asylum. Her mother doesn't understand her gift and is obsessed with making her life a living hell; the doctors at the asylum are determined to diagnose her with a psychological disorder.
To escape her suffering, she conjures up a whole new life with a gorgeous boy named Alex in her dreams (insert swoon here). Alex becomes her whole world and slowly the excitement and mystery starts to unfold.
Ugh!!! I just can't say anymore except that this book is full of emotion, mystery, and entertainment. It's an adventure that you shouldn't miss. A recommended read!
I must admit that at some point I was confused by the back and forth between Chloe's two worlds but I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The story centers on Chloe and her wonderful imagination that lands her in the asylum. Her mother doesn't understand her gift and is obsessed with making her life a living hell; the doctors at the asylum are determined to diagnose her with a psychological disorder.
To escape her suffering, she conjures up a whole new life with a gorgeous boy named Alex in her dreams (insert swoon here). Alex becomes her whole world and slowly the excitement and mystery starts to unfold.
Ugh!!! I just can't say anymore except that this book is full of emotion, mystery, and entertainment. It's an adventure that you shouldn't miss. A recommended read!
March 29, 2014
I've read a lot of books. If you can capture my interest in the first few pages, I will continue. Schasm captured my interest from page one until page 244. Very well written and captivating. I look forward to her following books and any other series Shari writes. Shari has a very real talent for writing and understanding human interest
July 31, 2016
This was one very confusing book. So, I had a little bit of a hard time coming up with a rating. In the end, I would say I'd give it 2.5 to 3 stars. The main reason for this is because there are parts I loved and hated within this book.
For the parts I liked, I thought the concept was original. I liked the idea of being able to drift between different realities and how it was interwoven with mental illness. The book takes a lot of dark turns but at the end, it is a story of love and hope. I also really liked Alex's character. He is so sweet and really romantic. I liked how he cared about Chloe and saved her so many times even when she made really idiotic decisions.
Now for the parts I really disliked. I just couldn't relate to Chloe. The girl was so bland. She has no interests at all. I get it that her mother was very abusive. But this is not explained fully in the book. All we know is that she is nineteen years old, but she literally has no life. This resulted in a lack of character development. The only real relationship she forms is with Alex (I really wonder what drew him to her, the girl has the personality of a turnip) which I felt lacked real chemistry. I also found her to be extremely juvenile. She makes the stupidest of mistakes throughout. I was constantly like "Really, Chloe!!!". The other part which I didn't like was how there are so many plot holes in the book. I know that the author wanted to add a bit of mystery but I felt the plot twists were a bit forced. This became like one giant mind bender and I was constantly wondering how and why something happened and what was the purpose behind it. This was more towards the middle and end of the book.
Overall, I would say this was an okay read. It's not too heavy. It is a part of a series as there is a major cliffhanger for an ending. Am I itching to read the next book? I would say probably not as of this moment but then maybe I will give it a while.
For the parts I liked, I thought the concept was original. I liked the idea of being able to drift between different realities and how it was interwoven with mental illness. The book takes a lot of dark turns but at the end, it is a story of love and hope. I also really liked Alex's character. He is so sweet and really romantic. I liked how he cared about Chloe and saved her so many times even when she made really idiotic decisions.
Now for the parts I really disliked. I just couldn't relate to Chloe. The girl was so bland. She has no interests at all. I get it that her mother was very abusive. But this is not explained fully in the book. All we know is that she is nineteen years old, but she literally has no life. This resulted in a lack of character development. The only real relationship she forms is with Alex (I really wonder what drew him to her, the girl has the personality of a turnip) which I felt lacked real chemistry. I also found her to be extremely juvenile. She makes the stupidest of mistakes throughout. I was constantly like "Really, Chloe!!!". The other part which I didn't like was how there are so many plot holes in the book. I know that the author wanted to add a bit of mystery but I felt the plot twists were a bit forced. This became like one giant mind bender and I was constantly wondering how and why something happened and what was the purpose behind it. This was more towards the middle and end of the book.
Overall, I would say this was an okay read. It's not too heavy. It is a part of a series as there is a major cliffhanger for an ending. Am I itching to read the next book? I would say probably not as of this moment but then maybe I will give it a while.
September 29, 2013
4.5 Stars. I am going to be honest with my review and admit that Schasm truly messed with my mind. Each time I felt as if I had a grasp at understanding what was happening, Shari Ryan would write changes to the plot where it would become more complex. I never quite felt sure that I could trust what I was reading. That was what makes this novel so brilliant!
Nineteen year-old Chloe Valcourt lives at home with her mother and father. Chloe has a mental condition compared to schizophrenia where she daydreams or "drifts" to different realities that are very real to her. Her mother is physically and emotionally abusive, trying to control her daughter's condition. She keeps Chloe locked in her room and only lets her come out for meals and doctor appointments at the mental asylum.
Chloe meets Alex early in the story, when her mind drifts to a beach. Chloe learns that she and Alex have the same condition, that they can both travel to different realities. Together, they become friends, realize they are kindred souls and fall in love with each other.
The plot in Schasm becomes very difficult to understand the further you read into the novel. I got to a point where I stopped trying to understand what was happening and basically held on for the ride, just to see where the author was taking me. I lost track of what was and wasn't real about the same time Chloe did.
It seems there is going to be a second novel, so I am hoping to gain some clarity with the plot and characters. I would love to know what really happened? Really, the novel is brilliant. The concept and plot of the novel was 5 stars, without a doubt. I am rating this novel at 4.5 stars due to strength of writing, which I feel is only going to improve in future novels. Looking forward to many more!
Nineteen year-old Chloe Valcourt lives at home with her mother and father. Chloe has a mental condition compared to schizophrenia where she daydreams or "drifts" to different realities that are very real to her. Her mother is physically and emotionally abusive, trying to control her daughter's condition. She keeps Chloe locked in her room and only lets her come out for meals and doctor appointments at the mental asylum.
Chloe meets Alex early in the story, when her mind drifts to a beach. Chloe learns that she and Alex have the same condition, that they can both travel to different realities. Together, they become friends, realize they are kindred souls and fall in love with each other.
The plot in Schasm becomes very difficult to understand the further you read into the novel. I got to a point where I stopped trying to understand what was happening and basically held on for the ride, just to see where the author was taking me. I lost track of what was and wasn't real about the same time Chloe did.
It seems there is going to be a second novel, so I am hoping to gain some clarity with the plot and characters. I would love to know what really happened? Really, the novel is brilliant. The concept and plot of the novel was 5 stars, without a doubt. I am rating this novel at 4.5 stars due to strength of writing, which I feel is only going to improve in future novels. Looking forward to many more!
September 17, 2013
(I received this book for free in return for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
I think this is a book that would be quite difficult to read with much going on around. It's not because it wasn't good (it was, as I'm sure you can judge from the four-stars), but there's so much going on, I felt that if I blinked, I'd miss something.
I'm still not entirely sure I understood what was really going on. I spent part of the book believing one thing, then changed my mind, only to half-change it back again, then again... you get the picture.
I really disliked Chloe's mother. Her father, too, but for different reasons. I liked Alex and Celia, but I'm not sure I know everything that was going on with them. Still, I was able to believe in Chloe and Alex's relationship and I really liked the two of them together.
I did like the whole drifting thing. I can't imagine what my life would be like if people decided I wasn't allowed to dream - whether in the night or during the day. Those are my stories that no one can take away from me and I'd hate it as much as Chloe if someone decided they meant I had a psychological problem and that I wasn't allowed to drift off anymore.
I'm not completely sure how the different places Chloe visits are connected. At first, I thought they were all taking place in the present day... and then there was the French cafe.
The book ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, but I am hoping there'll be a sequel that will tie up the loose ends of what will happen with Chloe and Alex. I do recommend this book for people who like young adult books, though I can't say what other genres it crosses.
(This review may contain spoilers).
I think this is a book that would be quite difficult to read with much going on around. It's not because it wasn't good (it was, as I'm sure you can judge from the four-stars), but there's so much going on, I felt that if I blinked, I'd miss something.
I'm still not entirely sure I understood what was really going on. I spent part of the book believing one thing, then changed my mind, only to half-change it back again, then again... you get the picture.
I really disliked Chloe's mother. Her father, too, but for different reasons. I liked Alex and Celia, but I'm not sure I know everything that was going on with them. Still, I was able to believe in Chloe and Alex's relationship and I really liked the two of them together.
I did like the whole drifting thing. I can't imagine what my life would be like if people decided I wasn't allowed to dream - whether in the night or during the day. Those are my stories that no one can take away from me and I'd hate it as much as Chloe if someone decided they meant I had a psychological problem and that I wasn't allowed to drift off anymore.
I'm not completely sure how the different places Chloe visits are connected. At first, I thought they were all taking place in the present day... and then there was the French cafe.
The book ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, but I am hoping there'll be a sequel that will tie up the loose ends of what will happen with Chloe and Alex. I do recommend this book for people who like young adult books, though I can't say what other genres it crosses.
September 17, 2013
Woah! Talk about mind blowing! Shari does a brilliant job of creating this world for us for Chloe and Alex... and you sympathize and feel like you are in their world!
Chloe and her parents do not get along. Her mother treats her poorly and locked up in the house. Makes her to go to the asylum to get treatments and more... however, she can mentally drift and sees Alex. But is Alex real? What are the Dr.'s doing to her... why is everything so complex? Why can't she just get to be with Alex??
This story just truly captivates you. You are literally watching a movie while reading... just amazing! The twists, turns and everything are fabulous and you feel everything that Chloe does! You want to jump in the book and help her, comfort her and just make things better for her.
What a fabulous debut book by Shari Ryan! I am now eagerly awaiting the next book to see what happens especially after that ending!
Well done, Shari. 4.5 stars from me.!
*received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Chloe and her parents do not get along. Her mother treats her poorly and locked up in the house. Makes her to go to the asylum to get treatments and more... however, she can mentally drift and sees Alex. But is Alex real? What are the Dr.'s doing to her... why is everything so complex? Why can't she just get to be with Alex??
This story just truly captivates you. You are literally watching a movie while reading... just amazing! The twists, turns and everything are fabulous and you feel everything that Chloe does! You want to jump in the book and help her, comfort her and just make things better for her.
What a fabulous debut book by Shari Ryan! I am now eagerly awaiting the next book to see what happens especially after that ending!
Well done, Shari. 4.5 stars from me.!
*received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
May 3, 2013
Schasm is such a page turner, I could not put it down! It follows the twists and turns in alternate realities of its two central characters Chloe and Alex. Gripping from start to finish, I found myself eagerly awaiting their every interaction and rooting for them to be together through some exciting twists and turns. From the author's exciting chapter 0 to every thought-provoking question in the book and then until the very end, I could not wait until I had the time to 'drift' along with Chloe and Alex and the rest of the characters. The story is written for teens and 20s BUT let's I'm considerably older and found the story captivating! It appears that this is author Shari Ryan's first book and I hope it is not her last. Fingers crossed that a sequel comes quickly after the release of this awesome novel in August.
March 15, 2014
I have just finished reading Schasm and pretty much have no idea what happened! I liked it though!
Chloe leads a horrid life, her mum keeps her shut away in her room with no friends and no control over her own life.
She 'drifts' though into a better place where she is happy. She has a friend there, Alex, who is kind and looks after her. Alex understands Chloe and wants to help her because Chloe's own mum has had her committed to a mental asylum, or has she!
A complex tale of imagination and reality. We all daydream and wistfully imagine ourselves in a better life; somewhere hotter, richer, a better job etc but we are able to come back to reality.
Schasm tells what happens when you are no longer sure what is reality or imagination. Read it.
Chloe leads a horrid life, her mum keeps her shut away in her room with no friends and no control over her own life.
She 'drifts' though into a better place where she is happy. She has a friend there, Alex, who is kind and looks after her. Alex understands Chloe and wants to help her because Chloe's own mum has had her committed to a mental asylum, or has she!
A complex tale of imagination and reality. We all daydream and wistfully imagine ourselves in a better life; somewhere hotter, richer, a better job etc but we are able to come back to reality.
Schasm tells what happens when you are no longer sure what is reality or imagination. Read it.
November 7, 2014
I have to say, I can't remember the last time I got "lost" in a book. I missed the feeling and this book reminded me of how it is to read a book in one day. I liked Chloe from the start and I couldn't stop reading! This book was complex, interesting, filled with twists. Some I saw them coming, some not, but every chapter was entertaining. I can't wait to read the second book. Oh and btw, if you're looking for a "hot, but understanding and smart, funny, strong, everything you could wish for" male character, just give Alex a chance! ;)
July 13, 2014
Have you ever wanted to just drift off into your own head and create a new life for yourself? I'm sure, at one point in time or another, we all have. It's human nature to want to have an escape.
Well, in Schasm, our main gal, Chloe has this ability. Her mind has, what many believe is, a disorder and she will occasionally space out for long periods of time while in the "real world". Meanwhile in Chloe's mind everything seems and feels so real. She tastes food, feels warmth of the sun and has fallen in love with Alex.
Is it sad when a "fantasy" life is better then her life in the waking world? Her mother, to "protect" her, keeps her locked away at home, only allowing her to go out to attend her appointments. However, the two worlds begin to collide and things start getting weird. Chloe has an uncle she never knew existed, she runs into Alex in the real world and he's not exactly as he is in her mind and her mother seeks to lock her down even more than she already has been.
That's about the extent I want to get into the story, but trust me when I say it's a wild ride. It's, pardon my language, a "mental mind fuck" through the minds of some very disturbing and interesting characters. The illustrative writing that author, Ryan, incorporates into her settings, scenes and characters is brilliant. I felt like I was sitting in a cafe in Paris enjoying a cup of cafe and a scone (although I would much prefer Venice) and then all of a sudden I am ripped from my dream into a harshly lit padded cell. Not a fun journey for me as a reader, so I'm sure it was even less fun for Chloe.
Speaking of Chloe, wait first let me mention that all of Shari Ryan's characters were well written. Good, clean dialogue and descriptions bring her characters to life to the point I could easily visualize them and the animated conversations they have among themselves. Okay, now back to Chloe, I'm not saying that I didn't like Chloe, and I understand that she lived a VERY sheltered life, but there were times when I just wanted to smack her. It was like she had absolutely no common sense or brains. It was rather annoying at times. I'm not sure if that is how the author wanted to portray her or not, but that is how I saw this poor girl. She is a nice enough girl and has definitely had a rough home life and no friends, so to a point, I get it, but.....
That being said, I still thoroughly enjoyed Schasm and look forward to reading books two and 3 in the series to see where Chloe and Alex end up.
Well, in Schasm, our main gal, Chloe has this ability. Her mind has, what many believe is, a disorder and she will occasionally space out for long periods of time while in the "real world". Meanwhile in Chloe's mind everything seems and feels so real. She tastes food, feels warmth of the sun and has fallen in love with Alex.
Is it sad when a "fantasy" life is better then her life in the waking world? Her mother, to "protect" her, keeps her locked away at home, only allowing her to go out to attend her appointments. However, the two worlds begin to collide and things start getting weird. Chloe has an uncle she never knew existed, she runs into Alex in the real world and he's not exactly as he is in her mind and her mother seeks to lock her down even more than she already has been.
That's about the extent I want to get into the story, but trust me when I say it's a wild ride. It's, pardon my language, a "mental mind fuck" through the minds of some very disturbing and interesting characters. The illustrative writing that author, Ryan, incorporates into her settings, scenes and characters is brilliant. I felt like I was sitting in a cafe in Paris enjoying a cup of cafe and a scone (although I would much prefer Venice) and then all of a sudden I am ripped from my dream into a harshly lit padded cell. Not a fun journey for me as a reader, so I'm sure it was even less fun for Chloe.
Speaking of Chloe, wait first let me mention that all of Shari Ryan's characters were well written. Good, clean dialogue and descriptions bring her characters to life to the point I could easily visualize them and the animated conversations they have among themselves. Okay, now back to Chloe, I'm not saying that I didn't like Chloe, and I understand that she lived a VERY sheltered life, but there were times when I just wanted to smack her. It was like she had absolutely no common sense or brains. It was rather annoying at times. I'm not sure if that is how the author wanted to portray her or not, but that is how I saw this poor girl. She is a nice enough girl and has definitely had a rough home life and no friends, so to a point, I get it, but.....
That being said, I still thoroughly enjoyed Schasm and look forward to reading books two and 3 in the series to see where Chloe and Alex end up.
February 16, 2014
Chloe leads a desolate existence trapped in a world dominated by her mother. According to her mother the world must be structured this way because she "drifts". The constant monitoring and home schooling is for her own good, she must not "drift" in public. Chloe sometimes looses her connection with reality and ends up engrossed in other places and events. Her mother refers to this as "drifting" which seems to be the worst thing in the world. While she is drifting Chloe meets Alex who seems to be able to drift on command and gradually the line between reality and the drift world seem to blur, but then Chloe falls out of a tree while she is drifting and when she returns to her room at home she is still injured and her parents commit her so she does not hurt herself further. Once Chloe is in the institution the lines between her drift world and the real world blur even further until she is not sure what is real and neither is the reader. I loved the way this story built up to the end when Chloe must make choices that will change her life. It was easy to feel for Chloe, her life is so bare and controlled and in the beginning you have no idea why her mother is so strict about things. Chloe gradually learns a few facts that explain her mother's panic over her condition, mainly the fact that Chloe's uncle had multiple personalities and eventually killed himself. As Chloe learns more about her family an the world around her the facts also enter her drift world. I found the connections between the two worlds intriguing and I loved the way the lines blurred between them more and more as the story developed. I also loved the other main characters, Alex and Celia who are a mother and son in the drift world. Alex is a friend who verges on a boyfriend, and while he too drifts he seems to be able to control it and he knows more about how it works, he introduces Chloe to other people in the drift world when needed. Celia is the mom Chloe always wanted, she dotes on her, is affectionate and treats her well, at one point Celia goes shopping and fills the guest room closet with clothes and gifts for Chloe since she will be staying with them for a few days. I loved the fact that you wonder more and more where reality is for Chloe. This was an engrossing read that stayed with me after I finished it and if you are curious I recommend you give it a shot, I really enjoyed it.
May 23, 2020
When I read the description of this book, I felt very sure this was my kind of story. Schasm follows Chloe Valcourt, who often drifts in and out of an alternate reality. Her cruel and controlling mother has been taking her to doctors most of her life, who've decided her strange condition most closely resembles schizophrenia. Chloe doesn't really believe her drifts are dangerous, and in fact, prefers them to her life as a prisoner in her own home. Then, while drifting to a beach, she meets Alex, a guy who claims he can also drift and has known Chloe since they were kids.
I have to admit, I wasn't so crazy about this book in the beginning. I felt the characters were a little one-dimensional. I never felt like I really knew who Chloe was. Maybe that's because she'd been basically locked in her room her whole life, so she didn't know who she was either. But that didn't come across well. Even though there's a lot of trying to figure out what was reality and what wasn't, it was missing an internal struggle of figuring herself out. Certain details also didn't make sense. For instance, why did Chloe's mom hide a box of personal family mementos in Chloe's closet if she didn't want her to find them? You could say that maybe she really did want Chloe to find them, but I just didn't get a sense that the mom was as complicated a character as that, even when later parts of the book hint to that possibility. These things were disappointing, because I really like to feel like I know the characters I meet in fiction. Alex was probably the most fully formed character, but most of the time, these characters felt more like they were playing roles than living, breathing people.
Still, the plot was interesting enough that it kept me reading. The book really hits its stride about halfway through, and the twists and turns keep you guessing every step of the way. The plot is definitely where this book shines. There were certain parts that felt similar to something I would have written, which made me smile. And the connection between Alex and Chloe makes you care about them, even if you don’t quite feel you know them. I liked the imagery in a few parts, and the darkness in others made me cringe.
I believe this is the first of a trilogy, so I’m hoping that some of my issues with the characters feeling underdeveloped will improve over the course of it. I’m certainly interested in continuing the series at some point.
I have to admit, I wasn't so crazy about this book in the beginning. I felt the characters were a little one-dimensional. I never felt like I really knew who Chloe was. Maybe that's because she'd been basically locked in her room her whole life, so she didn't know who she was either. But that didn't come across well. Even though there's a lot of trying to figure out what was reality and what wasn't, it was missing an internal struggle of figuring herself out. Certain details also didn't make sense. For instance, why did Chloe's mom hide a box of personal family mementos in Chloe's closet if she didn't want her to find them? You could say that maybe she really did want Chloe to find them, but I just didn't get a sense that the mom was as complicated a character as that, even when later parts of the book hint to that possibility. These things were disappointing, because I really like to feel like I know the characters I meet in fiction. Alex was probably the most fully formed character, but most of the time, these characters felt more like they were playing roles than living, breathing people.
Still, the plot was interesting enough that it kept me reading. The book really hits its stride about halfway through, and the twists and turns keep you guessing every step of the way. The plot is definitely where this book shines. There were certain parts that felt similar to something I would have written, which made me smile. And the connection between Alex and Chloe makes you care about them, even if you don’t quite feel you know them. I liked the imagery in a few parts, and the darkness in others made me cringe.
I believe this is the first of a trilogy, so I’m hoping that some of my issues with the characters feeling underdeveloped will improve over the course of it. I’m certainly interested in continuing the series at some point.
November 2, 2013
I have no idea where to start with this one since it is not my typical read, but it definitely gets Four Stars from me! This book is such a great book to read when you need something different. It has twists and turns and kept me guessing the whole book. In fact, I am still guessing! It still has a very sweet romance aspect to it which I definitely loved, but it’s not the main focus of the book.
Chloe is nothing like any heroine I have ever read in a book. She is nineteen, but in some ways is so naïve and still acts like a child. At times this would drive me crazy, but I had to remind myself of her circumstances growing up and how sheltered she was. Shari Ryan did a great job at somehow balancing her actual age and her immaturity due to her sheltered life. Her mind drifts are so much better than her actual life. I can’t blame her at all for wanting to remain in her mind. She is a likeable and infuriating character all at the same time.
Alex is also very different, but also very much the same as most heroes. He loves fiercely and is very protective of those he loves. He is young, but has lived his life much more than Chloe has been able to. I fell so easily for Alex with his surfer boy looks and his lazy, confident attitude in the beginning. The more I learned about Alex and his role in Chloe’s life, the more I liked him.
The plot of this story is what draws you in. It kept me wondering what was going to happen next and how in the hell it all connected the entire time. There are so many secrets to be discovered and so many people to meet that play a part in Chloe’s life both in and out of her day dreams. This is the story of Chloe finally getting a glimpse of happiness after 12 years of misery, but to keep this happiness is quite another thing. She is faced with so many obstacles. At times it is almost too confusing, and I did get a little overwhelmed, but if you want something that is almost like a fantansy but is not fantasy, give this book a try. It’s got mystery, romance, danger, and secrets to be revealed. This book definitely left me wanting more and needing more answers! I am hoping for and waiting impatiently for the next book in Chloe’s life.
Chloe is nothing like any heroine I have ever read in a book. She is nineteen, but in some ways is so naïve and still acts like a child. At times this would drive me crazy, but I had to remind myself of her circumstances growing up and how sheltered she was. Shari Ryan did a great job at somehow balancing her actual age and her immaturity due to her sheltered life. Her mind drifts are so much better than her actual life. I can’t blame her at all for wanting to remain in her mind. She is a likeable and infuriating character all at the same time.
Alex is also very different, but also very much the same as most heroes. He loves fiercely and is very protective of those he loves. He is young, but has lived his life much more than Chloe has been able to. I fell so easily for Alex with his surfer boy looks and his lazy, confident attitude in the beginning. The more I learned about Alex and his role in Chloe’s life, the more I liked him.
The plot of this story is what draws you in. It kept me wondering what was going to happen next and how in the hell it all connected the entire time. There are so many secrets to be discovered and so many people to meet that play a part in Chloe’s life both in and out of her day dreams. This is the story of Chloe finally getting a glimpse of happiness after 12 years of misery, but to keep this happiness is quite another thing. She is faced with so many obstacles. At times it is almost too confusing, and I did get a little overwhelmed, but if you want something that is almost like a fantansy but is not fantasy, give this book a try. It’s got mystery, romance, danger, and secrets to be revealed. This book definitely left me wanting more and needing more answers! I am hoping for and waiting impatiently for the next book in Chloe’s life.
March 3, 2014
Check out the full review on
www.herjuicyreads.com
There were times while reading this that I felt crazy. I felt my mind drift. I thought I had it figured out, until I didn't. I hated, more than ever before. I also trusted NO ONE!
That's the sign of a good book.
One that draws you in, and makes you part of the story. Schasm did that for me. The story itself pans out much like a winding roller coaster, moving in the the pitch black night, and without the feeling of the drop. I can't describe this any more clearly than the book itself. You'll have to trust me when I say, it speaks for itself.
Chloe Vancourt has been imprisoned by her mother since she was seven. She has felt like her "gift" was a disease her entire life. At nineteen she has no memory of her life before seven, and hasn't experienced anything a normal person would experience. She "drifts" without control, and her Mother does everything to restrain her from doing so. She is hooked up to wires, and paraded around the psych ward as if she can't function as a person. This was one of the saddest parts of a story. The relationship with her Mom made my blood boil. I have never in my reading life, hated a character more. It was so hard reading this at times, because of the anger I possessed while reading these interactions.
The "drifts" themselves were amazing. I fell in book boyfriend love with Alex! He was always so tuned into Chloe. His constant sacrifice, and devotion was amazing. I know I said I trusted no one through this read, and it's true I didn't. However, I always wanted to believe my gut when it came to Alex. Whether the gut feeling of mine was accurate or not, you'll have to find out for yourself. This is a must read! You can not skip over this book. It was a ride, that I'm not sure I want to get off of. One click it immediately!!
www.herjuicyreads.com
There were times while reading this that I felt crazy. I felt my mind drift. I thought I had it figured out, until I didn't. I hated, more than ever before. I also trusted NO ONE!
That's the sign of a good book.
One that draws you in, and makes you part of the story. Schasm did that for me. The story itself pans out much like a winding roller coaster, moving in the the pitch black night, and without the feeling of the drop. I can't describe this any more clearly than the book itself. You'll have to trust me when I say, it speaks for itself.
Chloe Vancourt has been imprisoned by her mother since she was seven. She has felt like her "gift" was a disease her entire life. At nineteen she has no memory of her life before seven, and hasn't experienced anything a normal person would experience. She "drifts" without control, and her Mother does everything to restrain her from doing so. She is hooked up to wires, and paraded around the psych ward as if she can't function as a person. This was one of the saddest parts of a story. The relationship with her Mom made my blood boil. I have never in my reading life, hated a character more. It was so hard reading this at times, because of the anger I possessed while reading these interactions.
The "drifts" themselves were amazing. I fell in book boyfriend love with Alex! He was always so tuned into Chloe. His constant sacrifice, and devotion was amazing. I know I said I trusted no one through this read, and it's true I didn't. However, I always wanted to believe my gut when it came to Alex. Whether the gut feeling of mine was accurate or not, you'll have to find out for yourself. This is a must read! You can not skip over this book. It was a ride, that I'm not sure I want to get off of. One click it immediately!!
April 4, 2014
I was provide a copy by the Publisher for an honest review.
First let me just start by saying that this is the first book that I read from this author.
HOLY SMOKE I just finish reading this book, and let me just say that I did not know what to think about when I started reading this book. their is so much going on in this book, I have to say my feelings are all over the place, I felt in love with this book that I really did not wanted to finish it. Now I'm just wondering if what I am thinking is real or my imagination (LOL). I LOVE this story I am gone keep this short cause I don't want to give anything away, and let me just say that theirs is a lot going on when I though that I was where I wanted to be, I get hit by a curve ball, this book kept me on the edge of my seat LOVE it.
The story begging with a young Chloe, she is talking to her best friend, she is telling him that she has to go see a doctor, but during the conversation Chloe had the feeling that he was saying goodbye. After her first visit to the doctor she black out, now years later pass by and Chloe now is nineteen, still visiting the same doctor her mother is a controlling freak, she don't let Chloe go no where, that's why when ever she's around Chloe tent to drift off, she is always drifting off to the unexpected places, into one of this places she end up meeting Alex, after that she is drawn to him, now the question is if his an imaginary of her realistic dreams or if he real.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, I cant wait to read the next book, I have to be honest the mother was driving me crazy I felt like smacking her around for a while. But other than that I love everything Author Shari J. Ryan THANK YOU for introducing me to this Amazing characters and this Wonderful book love it.
First let me just start by saying that this is the first book that I read from this author.
HOLY SMOKE I just finish reading this book, and let me just say that I did not know what to think about when I started reading this book. their is so much going on in this book, I have to say my feelings are all over the place, I felt in love with this book that I really did not wanted to finish it. Now I'm just wondering if what I am thinking is real or my imagination (LOL). I LOVE this story I am gone keep this short cause I don't want to give anything away, and let me just say that theirs is a lot going on when I though that I was where I wanted to be, I get hit by a curve ball, this book kept me on the edge of my seat LOVE it.
The story begging with a young Chloe, she is talking to her best friend, she is telling him that she has to go see a doctor, but during the conversation Chloe had the feeling that he was saying goodbye. After her first visit to the doctor she black out, now years later pass by and Chloe now is nineteen, still visiting the same doctor her mother is a controlling freak, she don't let Chloe go no where, that's why when ever she's around Chloe tent to drift off, she is always drifting off to the unexpected places, into one of this places she end up meeting Alex, after that she is drawn to him, now the question is if his an imaginary of her realistic dreams or if he real.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, I cant wait to read the next book, I have to be honest the mother was driving me crazy I felt like smacking her around for a while. But other than that I love everything Author Shari J. Ryan THANK YOU for introducing me to this Amazing characters and this Wonderful book love it.
September 12, 2016
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Schasm has an original premise and has a lot of twists and turns. It keeps your interest for the most part, although I thought it was a little too detailed when Chloe was in the Catacombs.
I found Chloe’s “gift” intriguing. Things got a little weird toward the end and there was no guessing what was going to happen next. In fact, I’m not quite sure what ended up being real and what was all in Chloe’s mind, but I’m guessing that Shari Ryan meant it to be that way. The ending was a surprise but appropriate.
I recommend Schasm, especially if you like books that are a little different from run-of-the-mill.
Update 5/1/14: At the author's request, I reread the "new and improved" version of this book. I liked it the first time I read it so I didn't mind reading it again. I liked this edited version even better. It's still the same story but it was easier to follow.
The idea for this story is original and although I was confused at times the first time I read it, I was only confused once this time near the end when I couldn't figure out where Chloe was. I even reread the chapter and I couldn't figure it out.
I definitely recommend this book and I can't wait to read the sequel!
My rating changed from a 3 to a 4. I'd give it a 4.5 if I could.
Schasm has an original premise and has a lot of twists and turns. It keeps your interest for the most part, although I thought it was a little too detailed when Chloe was in the Catacombs.
I found Chloe’s “gift” intriguing. Things got a little weird toward the end and there was no guessing what was going to happen next. In fact, I’m not quite sure what ended up being real and what was all in Chloe’s mind, but I’m guessing that Shari Ryan meant it to be that way. The ending was a surprise but appropriate.
I recommend Schasm, especially if you like books that are a little different from run-of-the-mill.
Update 5/1/14: At the author's request, I reread the "new and improved" version of this book. I liked it the first time I read it so I didn't mind reading it again. I liked this edited version even better. It's still the same story but it was easier to follow.
The idea for this story is original and although I was confused at times the first time I read it, I was only confused once this time near the end when I couldn't figure out where Chloe was. I even reread the chapter and I couldn't figure it out.
I definitely recommend this book and I can't wait to read the sequel!
My rating changed from a 3 to a 4. I'd give it a 4.5 if I could.
January 25, 2014
It seems like it’s been a while since I read a book that I enjoyed this much. I was hooked on this story from page the beginning. The author made me feel, really feel what Chloe has gone through. Poor Chloe. There is so much pain in her life. Her unique situation is one that she should enjoy, but she’s been made to feel like a burden. Her mother makes her feel like she has a terrible condition or disability that must be kept hidden and treated with disgust. But her drifting is the only happiness she finds in her dismal existence. She meets the amazingly gorgeous Alex on a drift and soon her world gets turned upside down as she learns of hidden truths, secrets and unforgivable things done to her as a child.
This book was a really good one! There were parts of it where I was wondering what was real and what was just in her imagination. The author is good at keeping you guessing! At the very end it seems as though it will all work out and then BAM giant cliffhanger! I loved getting lost in Chloe’s world with her and I eagerly await the next book in this series.
I give this one 4.75 stars.
This book was a really good one! There were parts of it where I was wondering what was real and what was just in her imagination. The author is good at keeping you guessing! At the very end it seems as though it will all work out and then BAM giant cliffhanger! I loved getting lost in Chloe’s world with her and I eagerly await the next book in this series.
I give this one 4.75 stars.
August 10, 2016
As a huge fan of dark contemporary tales with complex psychological underpinnings, I was thoroughly drawn into psychological mindscramble of Schasm from the first chapter and pulled along as I tried to figure out fantasy from reality right along with main character Chloe Valcourt. Her confusion is palpable; her frustration, believable, and her escape into the rocky terrain of her own uncontrolled daydreaming is a thrill ride through paradise and purgatory, populated with figures who offer her a hopeful alternative to her life on the outside—and insight into the mysteries of the strange condition that plagues her. The author does a beautiful job crafting a sympathetic protagonist in Chloe, a confused teen with horrific parents who wants nothing more than to leave reality behind in favor of fantasy, and love, in the form of fellow daydream believer Alex and his mother, Cecilia. And when scheming Uncle Franco shows up to meddle in Chloe’s growing happiness, things take a sinister turn that changes the flavor of the entire story. Lovers of twisting psychothrillers and romance stories alike should grab this up!
August 30, 2016
**ARC provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review**
(Rating is 4.5 out of 5 Stolen Memories)
Chloe has been put through hell by her mom for the last twelve years. The only time Chloe finds any kind of solace is when she is having these Dreams or separation from reality as I would like to call it. She will just black out and go into this World of alternate reality and stay there for hours.
It is here that she meets Alex. She has never been able to talk to anyone else in these Dreams before, until Alex rescues her from drowning. Alex has opened her to so many secrets and tries to get her to see what is happening with the World around her when she mind shifts. It is here that this book takes a turn and Shari paints this tale of twists for us to try to figure out.
The whole book has you on edge, trying to see if what you think is going to happen, will happen or will something else altogether will jump out and surprise you. I spent the second half of the book, trying to see if I could tell what was going to happen in the end, and well, Shari stumped me and left me with my mouth hanging open, in an Oh My God kind of way.
(Rating is 4.5 out of 5 Stolen Memories)
Chloe has been put through hell by her mom for the last twelve years. The only time Chloe finds any kind of solace is when she is having these Dreams or separation from reality as I would like to call it. She will just black out and go into this World of alternate reality and stay there for hours.
It is here that she meets Alex. She has never been able to talk to anyone else in these Dreams before, until Alex rescues her from drowning. Alex has opened her to so many secrets and tries to get her to see what is happening with the World around her when she mind shifts. It is here that this book takes a turn and Shari paints this tale of twists for us to try to figure out.
The whole book has you on edge, trying to see if what you think is going to happen, will happen or will something else altogether will jump out and surprise you. I spent the second half of the book, trying to see if I could tell what was going to happen in the end, and well, Shari stumped me and left me with my mouth hanging open, in an Oh My God kind of way.
January 25, 2014
"Woah! Talk about mind blowing! Shari does a brilliant job of creating this world for us for Chloe and Alex... and you sympathize and feel like you are in their world!
Chloe and her parents do not get along. Her mother treats her poorly and locked up in the house. Makes her to go to the asylum to get treatments and more... however, she can mentally drift and sees Alex. But is Alex real? What are the Dr.'s doing to her... why is everything so complex? Why can't she just get to be with Alex??
This story just truly captivates you. You are literally watching a movie while reading... just amazing! The twists, turns and everything are fabulous and you feel everything that Chloe does! You want to jump in the book and help her, comfort her and just make things better for her.
What a fabulous debut book by Shari Ryan! I am now eagerly awaiting the next book to see what happens especially after that ending!
Well done, Shari. 4.5 stars from me.!
*received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*"
Chloe and her parents do not get along. Her mother treats her poorly and locked up in the house. Makes her to go to the asylum to get treatments and more... however, she can mentally drift and sees Alex. But is Alex real? What are the Dr.'s doing to her... why is everything so complex? Why can't she just get to be with Alex??
This story just truly captivates you. You are literally watching a movie while reading... just amazing! The twists, turns and everything are fabulous and you feel everything that Chloe does! You want to jump in the book and help her, comfort her and just make things better for her.
What a fabulous debut book by Shari Ryan! I am now eagerly awaiting the next book to see what happens especially after that ending!
Well done, Shari. 4.5 stars from me.!
*received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*"
October 27, 2013
I have to admit at first this story confused me and I wasn't sure what was going on. How is a girl in one world and then she starts to day dream and she is in a different world. This girl Chloe day dreams and one minute she is in the 20's in France and then next she is in present time San Diego. I wasn't sure what was going on. As soon as I got through the first two chapters I got really into the story. In fact I couldn't put it down. I read the whole book in about 2 days.
There were so many ups and downs in this story and just as it was getting good and you think you know what is going to happen next, the story gets switched and you don't know what will happen next. I ended up really liking this story. I was really sad that the story ended in a cliff hanger. I didn't want it to end! I also this this movie would make an excellent movie. I will definitely recommend this story to everyone and can't wait for the next part!
~Teresa
www.sinfulreview.wordpress.com
There were so many ups and downs in this story and just as it was getting good and you think you know what is going to happen next, the story gets switched and you don't know what will happen next. I ended up really liking this story. I was really sad that the story ended in a cliff hanger. I didn't want it to end! I also this this movie would make an excellent movie. I will definitely recommend this story to everyone and can't wait for the next part!
~Teresa
www.sinfulreview.wordpress.com
February 1, 2014
I was gifted this book by the author Shari J. Ryan and Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock for my honest review.
Chasm was definitely a mind bender for me. I was confused and intrigued from the very beginning. All i can say is WOW! I'm not even sure how to tell you about this book without giving the story away. I could not begin to do it justice. This book was incredibly written. In the beginning I was some what lost and confused but so glad I stuck it out. It kept me guessing. I enjoyed the interactions between Chloe and Alex and their feelings toward each other.
The story was a bit difficult for me to grasp in the beginning but as the story progressed it got better until I could not put it down. I love that it left on a cliff hanger. I will most definitely be reading the next book.
I would recommend this book to young adults on up.
Chasm was definitely a mind bender for me. I was confused and intrigued from the very beginning. All i can say is WOW! I'm not even sure how to tell you about this book without giving the story away. I could not begin to do it justice. This book was incredibly written. In the beginning I was some what lost and confused but so glad I stuck it out. It kept me guessing. I enjoyed the interactions between Chloe and Alex and their feelings toward each other.
The story was a bit difficult for me to grasp in the beginning but as the story progressed it got better until I could not put it down. I love that it left on a cliff hanger. I will most definitely be reading the next book.
I would recommend this book to young adults on up.
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