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Victorian
Celeste struggles with finding her way from a dark past until she gets a summer volunteer gig at the local historical fair. Enter outrageous actors, dominating psychics, and ghosts stirred by a medium’s presence. With the help of the psychic’s son, who isn’t at all what her dream date would look like, but rather endearing all the same, Celeste uncovers secrets about the village left hidden among the dilapidated buildings. Searching deeper will mean opening her heart, a part of her she’s locked up tight and been petrified of freeing.
322 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 18, 2016
Both Celeste and Weronika had joined the Counselling Circle on the advice of others – complete strangers until they met in the group, they seemed drawn to each other though they were as alike as chalk and cheese. Both had pasts they wanted to keep hidden; pasts they weren’t prepared to share with anyone. But would the guidance of their counsellor, Michelle help – or hinder?
When Celeste was approached by her cousin Donna regarding a volunteer position at an upcoming historical fair, she initially thought she couldn’t do it. Caring for her brother Eli was her excuse, but she needed to get over her nervousness – maybe Weronika coming with her would help the two of them? And so it began – the girls mixed with the other fair workers; learning their roles as Victorian women in a village which had been abandoned after the whole town’s people had died back in the 1800s.
But there were secrets buried deep in the village’s past and when the fair was underway, with families laughing and enjoying the activities, Celeste was seeing people who weren’t there; children who needed help. There were psychics and mediums among the fair workers; was she a medium as well? Could Celeste find the secrets that had lain hidden for hundreds of years? And would she find peace for herself in doing so?
Victorian by Jordan Elizabeth Mierek is a young adult fantasy novel which is thoroughly entertaining and a lot of fun. Well fleshed out characters with grievous pasts, we don’t find out what happened to Celeste and Weronika until nearing the finish. I enjoyed the time at the fair; could visualise the stalls and activities set up near the river. The old railway station, long abandoned – the rickety bridge crossing the river. Victorian is another great novel by this author which I definitely recommend.
With thanks to the author for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
When Celeste was approached by her cousin Donna regarding a volunteer position at an upcoming historical fair, she initially thought she couldn’t do it. Caring for her brother Eli was her excuse, but she needed to get over her nervousness – maybe Weronika coming with her would help the two of them? And so it began – the girls mixed with the other fair workers; learning their roles as Victorian women in a village which had been abandoned after the whole town’s people had died back in the 1800s.
But there were secrets buried deep in the village’s past and when the fair was underway, with families laughing and enjoying the activities, Celeste was seeing people who weren’t there; children who needed help. There were psychics and mediums among the fair workers; was she a medium as well? Could Celeste find the secrets that had lain hidden for hundreds of years? And would she find peace for herself in doing so?
Victorian by Jordan Elizabeth Mierek is a young adult fantasy novel which is thoroughly entertaining and a lot of fun. Well fleshed out characters with grievous pasts, we don’t find out what happened to Celeste and Weronika until nearing the finish. I enjoyed the time at the fair; could visualise the stalls and activities set up near the river. The old railway station, long abandoned – the rickety bridge crossing the river. Victorian is another great novel by this author which I definitely recommend.
With thanks to the author for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
August 21, 2016
They weren’t looking for a friend, they were at the Counseling Circle at the behest of others. Past traumas in their lives have made them socially awkward, guilt-ridden and skewed in their perceptions of life and themselves. Celeste and Weronika are different as night and day, but together they seemed to fit and together they found friendship through the understanding of unspoken pain.
When a Victorian festival is planned in a historical village, both girls find work as volunteers, but it is on the grounds of this ghost town that one of them will see the unbelievable. Is she to be set free from her past? What of Weronka, will she finally bare her heart and soul to those she loves? Sometimes we find healing in strange ways, but it’s the ghosts of the past that will stay with us.
Have you ever been to a Festival celebrating times long past where actors play out their role as you wander from place to place? Have you ever wondered about the souls represented by these events? Could they still be around for the chosen few to see? With Victorian Jordan Elizabeth brings the lives of two contemporary girls together, places them a situation foreign and out of character for them and allows their bond to form and the magic of their healing to begin. Wonderful reading with its own sense of magic and dark charm.
I received this copy from Jordan Elizabeth Mierek in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: CHBB Publishing (June 19, 2016)
Publication Date: June 19, 2016
Genre: Occult | Paranormal
Print Length: 240 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
When a Victorian festival is planned in a historical village, both girls find work as volunteers, but it is on the grounds of this ghost town that one of them will see the unbelievable. Is she to be set free from her past? What of Weronka, will she finally bare her heart and soul to those she loves? Sometimes we find healing in strange ways, but it’s the ghosts of the past that will stay with us.
Have you ever been to a Festival celebrating times long past where actors play out their role as you wander from place to place? Have you ever wondered about the souls represented by these events? Could they still be around for the chosen few to see? With Victorian Jordan Elizabeth brings the lives of two contemporary girls together, places them a situation foreign and out of character for them and allows their bond to form and the magic of their healing to begin. Wonderful reading with its own sense of magic and dark charm.
I received this copy from Jordan Elizabeth Mierek in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: CHBB Publishing (June 19, 2016)
Publication Date: June 19, 2016
Genre: Occult | Paranormal
Print Length: 240 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 30, 2016
Those looking for action should steer clear of Victorian. It has very little to get your adrenaline flowing. But if you're willing to read a slower, more human story of love and loss, this is the book for you. Celeste and Weronika are interesting heroines with their own flaws and insecurities. Weronika's past, in particular, is so heart-wrenching you might wonder if her life can ever be salvaged. This is a well-written story which anyone who has ever experienced loss and trauma can identify with.
However, I'm not sure the author handled Weronika correctly. She's used a lot less than Celeste and ends up being irrelevant to the solving of the big mystery. She's mostly just there to spur Celeste's growth as a character. I think she should have been more central to the main plot.
Nevertheless, it's a good story and I have no problem recommending it.
However, I'm not sure the author handled Weronika correctly. She's used a lot less than Celeste and ends up being irrelevant to the solving of the big mystery. She's mostly just there to spur Celeste's growth as a character. I think she should have been more central to the main plot.
Nevertheless, it's a good story and I have no problem recommending it.
June 23, 2016
Another great book by Jordan Elizabeth. The characters are so well developed and the story line keeps you wanting to read all night long.
March 25, 2017
This is by far my least favorite title by this author. Normally I'm wholly engaged in her writing, and she has great diversity. She can easily write a book based in a fantasy realm, then deal with difficult family dynamics in another, then discuss legends of witches in the next. It's for this reason I've come to enjoy her writings--so far, she's been able to write about everything.
Victorian was a letdown. I absolutely love ghost stories, and I feel like there's never enough of them out there. I love the renaissance faire and I love the idea of a Victorian themed one out there in the world somewhere. It should've been a slamdunk.
I had a weird conundrum while I was reading. I finished it on the plane home from vacation and when my boyfriend asked how it was I had to tell him that too much happened and nothing happened at the same time.
Here's what I mean: most of the novel is spent on random interludes preparing for the faire. They didn't do anything to build the characters and they didn't further the plot. It's nice to know that a guy got stagefright when auditioning for a part, but does it have anything to do with Celeste and Weronika seeing ghosts and dealing with their own personal demons? Not particularly.
The damaging personal stories for the two girls had too light of a tone for me as well. Both of them had really gnarly things happen in their past, and those reveals felt more like afterthoughts to finding out why a town of people two hundred years ago suddenly died out.
The big reveal about grandpa and Scott were easy to see a mile away too. I was just disappointed with each aspect of the book, and when all of them combined it seemed like there wasn't enough development for each separate story line. I'll definitely read more from this author, but this one was a miss for me.
Victorian was a letdown. I absolutely love ghost stories, and I feel like there's never enough of them out there. I love the renaissance faire and I love the idea of a Victorian themed one out there in the world somewhere. It should've been a slamdunk.
I had a weird conundrum while I was reading. I finished it on the plane home from vacation and when my boyfriend asked how it was I had to tell him that too much happened and nothing happened at the same time.
Here's what I mean: most of the novel is spent on random interludes preparing for the faire. They didn't do anything to build the characters and they didn't further the plot. It's nice to know that a guy got stagefright when auditioning for a part, but does it have anything to do with Celeste and Weronika seeing ghosts and dealing with their own personal demons? Not particularly.
The damaging personal stories for the two girls had too light of a tone for me as well. Both of them had really gnarly things happen in their past, and those reveals felt more like afterthoughts to finding out why a town of people two hundred years ago suddenly died out.
The big reveal about grandpa and Scott were easy to see a mile away too. I was just disappointed with each aspect of the book, and when all of them combined it seemed like there wasn't enough development for each separate story line. I'll definitely read more from this author, but this one was a miss for me.
July 20, 2016
*I was provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the generous author.
Victorian is the story of two girls; Celeste, and Weronica and how they get over their haunting pasts and finally able to move on. It's about their journey to healing and forgiveness, and the role their friendship and the Victorian fair play in helping them achieve it.
They meet at a 'Counseling Circle' which their families suggest they attend, and are drawn to each other. Together they find the opportunity to volunteer at the local fair--a way to lose themselves in a different place, in a different time--and something they bond over. A chance to improve and become a new person. Will they be able to tell the secrets they have been hiding, finally, and get over past regrets?
The story grips you from the very first line and doesn't drag for one second. The Victorian fair was really exciting and entertaining. And the village's history, mysterious past was all interesting. (I felt like I didn't get enough of the fair in the story though, but I realized the story was more about the family drama and moving on with their pasts). And the ghosts were really well described and their stories amazingly told. So compelling.
Bonus for the real and relateable characters ,the character development, oh my God the character development , and intriguing writing style. The author's perception of seeing things , though, I swear...
'I couldn't see much through the fence, other than a river with a bridge crossing it and a hill on the other side. Picnic tables rested beside the river and someone had left a coke bottle on the ground.'
Jordan's writing is not the usual vivid, beautiful and easy to picture. It's different from 'the usual' in every wonderful way. It transports you to that place, a world of sharp colours, smells, sounds and touch. Every sense awaken . It's so real it's unreal.
I thought Weronica was really cool (though she could be mean sometimes) and,in a way,more interesting as a character than Celeste. But the story's mainly about Celeste. She reminded me, in parts, of protagonists from other books by Jordan:
Overall, I enjoyed this immensely, loved the fair, the ghosts (ooh) and the character development.
Victorian is the story of two girls; Celeste, and Weronica and how they get over their haunting pasts and finally able to move on. It's about their journey to healing and forgiveness, and the role their friendship and the Victorian fair play in helping them achieve it.
They meet at a 'Counseling Circle' which their families suggest they attend, and are drawn to each other. Together they find the opportunity to volunteer at the local fair--a way to lose themselves in a different place, in a different time--and something they bond over. A chance to improve and become a new person. Will they be able to tell the secrets they have been hiding, finally, and get over past regrets?
The story grips you from the very first line and doesn't drag for one second. The Victorian fair was really exciting and entertaining. And the village's history, mysterious past was all interesting. (I felt like I didn't get enough of the fair in the story though, but I realized the story was more about the family drama and moving on with their pasts). And the ghosts were really well described and their stories amazingly told. So compelling.
Bonus for the real and relateable characters ,the character development, oh my God the character development , and intriguing writing style. The author's perception of seeing things , though, I swear...
'I couldn't see much through the fence, other than a river with a bridge crossing it and a hill on the other side. Picnic tables rested beside the river and someone had left a coke bottle on the ground.'
Jordan's writing is not the usual vivid, beautiful and easy to picture. It's different from 'the usual' in every wonderful way. It transports you to that place, a world of sharp colours, smells, sounds and touch. Every sense awaken . It's so real it's unreal.
I thought Weronica was really cool (though she could be mean sometimes) and,in a way,more interesting as a character than Celeste. But the story's mainly about Celeste. She reminded me, in parts, of protagonists from other books by Jordan:
Overall, I enjoyed this immensely, loved the fair, the ghosts (ooh) and the character development.
August 15, 2017
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. Everything here is my opinion. There was no compensation aside from the enjoyment of reading.
I've read quite a few of Jordan Elizabeth's books and this one reminds me of Escape From Witchwood Hollow. The similarities are the emotional trauma of the leads and the supernatural/paranormal element that ties in and helps the characters through their trauma. Though those are big similarities, the two books are still very different.
Victorian deals with the emotional trauma of two teenage girls. The book is separated by their personal views. The reader joins in their lives and witnesses their transformation. Their voices are very different. Celeste is quiet and unsure of herself whereas Weronika is loud and irrational. Though it is the same author, the way the book is written you can see their individual voices.
I would say the main character is Celeste, only because she has more chapters than Weronika. However, both girls go through a change because of their friendship and the Victorian Fair they both work at. Celeste's change has to deal with the ghosts at the fair than Weronika, but they both still go through a change.
I have to say, I prefer Jordan Elizabeth's books that deal with heavy subjects and how the teens grow from them. I have read some of her steampunk and though it's enjoyable, I gain a stronger emotion from books like Victorian.
The Victorian fair is more of a backdrop, a tool for the characters to use to find themselves. The title of the book may confuse the reader, but I think it fits this book very well. Celeste uses the fair to hide herself. No, the fair isn't very Victorian and it does have a few anachronisms, but it's a fair.
In all, I enjoyed this book very much. It doesn't have an antagonist character, but I believe the emotional trauma is the antagonist. The inner turmoil and the physical acts of finding oneself is the focus of the book. It is well written and I would recommend it.
I've read quite a few of Jordan Elizabeth's books and this one reminds me of Escape From Witchwood Hollow. The similarities are the emotional trauma of the leads and the supernatural/paranormal element that ties in and helps the characters through their trauma. Though those are big similarities, the two books are still very different.
Victorian deals with the emotional trauma of two teenage girls. The book is separated by their personal views. The reader joins in their lives and witnesses their transformation. Their voices are very different. Celeste is quiet and unsure of herself whereas Weronika is loud and irrational. Though it is the same author, the way the book is written you can see their individual voices.
I would say the main character is Celeste, only because she has more chapters than Weronika. However, both girls go through a change because of their friendship and the Victorian Fair they both work at. Celeste's change has to deal with the ghosts at the fair than Weronika, but they both still go through a change.
I have to say, I prefer Jordan Elizabeth's books that deal with heavy subjects and how the teens grow from them. I have read some of her steampunk and though it's enjoyable, I gain a stronger emotion from books like Victorian.
The Victorian fair is more of a backdrop, a tool for the characters to use to find themselves. The title of the book may confuse the reader, but I think it fits this book very well. Celeste uses the fair to hide herself. No, the fair isn't very Victorian and it does have a few anachronisms, but it's a fair.
In all, I enjoyed this book very much. It doesn't have an antagonist character, but I believe the emotional trauma is the antagonist. The inner turmoil and the physical acts of finding oneself is the focus of the book. It is well written and I would recommend it.
June 18, 2016
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
Of the books I've read by this author this is one of my favorites. I liked the idea of the Festival and the history of the village the festival is set at.
We meet the two main characters Weronika and Aeltye "Celeste" when they meet at a teen therapy group. Weronika likes to push the envelope while Celeste is kind of mousy and skittish. Both girls have dark pasts they don't want to talk about but each handles those problems differently. Weronika acts out to tick her family off while Celeste clings to her grandfather like a safety blanket and hovers over her younger brother who has "selective mutism."
As the story progresses the two girls take jobs at a Victorian-era style Renaissance Fair held on the grounds of a historic village. But the village is haunted and Celeste sees ghosts everywhere.
Taking it upon herself Celeste decides to help the ghosts and solve the mystery of how everyone died with the help of a guy named Zander, the son of the festival's transgender "spiritual healer."
Meanwhile Weronika struggles with her demons and struggles to perform her duties at the festival.
Will Celeste and Zander solve the mystery? Will working at the festival help Celeste and Weronika heal? Will they still be friends after the dark secrets they hide are revealed?
I liked this book but a lot of the chapters were in Celeste's perspective and I would have liked to see more in Weronika's perspective. Another thing I noticed was it seemed like everything was jammed in at the end; the resolve of the ghost issue, the reveal of Celeste and Weronika's pasts, and a major curve ball regarding Celeste's grandfather were all in the last few chapters.
At the end of the book I, a romantic at heart, hope that after the story ended Zander and Celeste got together, Nate and Weronika stayed together, and Weronika either had a better home life or emancipated herself to get away from those jerkoffs masquerading as parents.
Of the books I've read by this author this is one of my favorites. I liked the idea of the Festival and the history of the village the festival is set at.
We meet the two main characters Weronika and Aeltye "Celeste" when they meet at a teen therapy group. Weronika likes to push the envelope while Celeste is kind of mousy and skittish. Both girls have dark pasts they don't want to talk about but each handles those problems differently. Weronika acts out to tick her family off while Celeste clings to her grandfather like a safety blanket and hovers over her younger brother who has "selective mutism."
As the story progresses the two girls take jobs at a Victorian-era style Renaissance Fair held on the grounds of a historic village. But the village is haunted and Celeste sees ghosts everywhere.
Taking it upon herself Celeste decides to help the ghosts and solve the mystery of how everyone died with the help of a guy named Zander, the son of the festival's transgender "spiritual healer."
Meanwhile Weronika struggles with her demons and struggles to perform her duties at the festival.
Will Celeste and Zander solve the mystery? Will working at the festival help Celeste and Weronika heal? Will they still be friends after the dark secrets they hide are revealed?
I liked this book but a lot of the chapters were in Celeste's perspective and I would have liked to see more in Weronika's perspective. Another thing I noticed was it seemed like everything was jammed in at the end; the resolve of the ghost issue, the reveal of Celeste and Weronika's pasts, and a major curve ball regarding Celeste's grandfather were all in the last few chapters.
At the end of the book I, a romantic at heart, hope that after the story ended Zander and Celeste got together, Nate and Weronika stayed together, and Weronika either had a better home life or emancipated herself to get away from those jerkoffs masquerading as parents.
August 3, 2016
Another awesome book by Jordan Elizabeth Mierek. She really scores high in my list of favourite contemporary authors.
Victorian is the story of two girls with troubles in their past who end up diving way more into the past at a Victorian fair.
During the entire book you are teased with their secrets. As a reader, I felt a bit like a detective trying to figure out the characters' secrets while they worked on moving on through history secrets.
The stories are intricate and compelling, my only regret is that there wasn't more from Weronika because she was the best character for me with a lot more to deal with than Celeste.
I think the story wouldn't have moved much without Weronika's pro-actively trying to escape and with Celeste almost ready to try anything to do good. They seem to be the less likely character to become friends and that's probably what really brings them together.
But if we see Celest grow and change, Weronika has a totally different problem, it's not really her who needs changing, it's the entire world around her. For that reason it was probably better to have Celeste go around the fair looking for clues but I would have loved to see Weronika try for it too.
It's really hard to right this review without spoiler, seriously, you have to read this book. I'll recommend Victorian to anyone who likes ghost story, history, trouble teens and want to learn about moving on.
Victorian is the story of two girls with troubles in their past who end up diving way more into the past at a Victorian fair.
During the entire book you are teased with their secrets. As a reader, I felt a bit like a detective trying to figure out the characters' secrets while they worked on moving on through history secrets.
The stories are intricate and compelling, my only regret is that there wasn't more from Weronika because she was the best character for me with a lot more to deal with than Celeste.
I think the story wouldn't have moved much without Weronika's pro-actively trying to escape and with Celeste almost ready to try anything to do good. They seem to be the less likely character to become friends and that's probably what really brings them together.
But if we see Celest grow and change, Weronika has a totally different problem, it's not really her who needs changing, it's the entire world around her. For that reason it was probably better to have Celeste go around the fair looking for clues but I would have loved to see Weronika try for it too.
It's really hard to right this review without spoiler, seriously, you have to read this book. I'll recommend Victorian to anyone who likes ghost story, history, trouble teens and want to learn about moving on.
June 16, 2016
I want to thank the author for sending me a copy of this book for review.
Celeste and Weronika are two young girls who meet at a Counselling Circle. They both have problems that need assistance, and they both want to move on with their life after traumatic events in their past.
But sometimes ghosts don’t want to be forgotten.
And when actual ghosts pop into the picture, things get a little confusing.
***
Victorian is a very ambitious story.
As always, the reader will be delighted with Jordan Elizabeth’s usual prose, filled with gorgeous descriptions so vividly done that they feel realistic (the self-harm/descriptions of pain were really real). The writing style is great, easy to read, fast and quick.
The writing is so well done that you have to keep going: you want to know what those two girls are hiding. You want to know about the ghosts.
Plus, I loved that you actually can feel the change of voices when the narrator changes. This is very very good, in my eyes.
The story is so out there, I really enjoyed it. Ghosts are fascinating creatures - to the point where the story itself feels haunted. It is a painful story.
I liked the ever so thin barrier between reality and paranormal.
This story is about moving on, healing and being brave, led by two strong main characters, flawed and loveable.
Celeste and Weronika are two young girls who meet at a Counselling Circle. They both have problems that need assistance, and they both want to move on with their life after traumatic events in their past.
But sometimes ghosts don’t want to be forgotten.
And when actual ghosts pop into the picture, things get a little confusing.
***
Victorian is a very ambitious story.
As always, the reader will be delighted with Jordan Elizabeth’s usual prose, filled with gorgeous descriptions so vividly done that they feel realistic (the self-harm/descriptions of pain were really real). The writing style is great, easy to read, fast and quick.
The writing is so well done that you have to keep going: you want to know what those two girls are hiding. You want to know about the ghosts.
Plus, I loved that you actually can feel the change of voices when the narrator changes. This is very very good, in my eyes.
The story is so out there, I really enjoyed it. Ghosts are fascinating creatures - to the point where the story itself feels haunted. It is a painful story.
I liked the ever so thin barrier between reality and paranormal.
This story is about moving on, healing and being brave, led by two strong main characters, flawed and loveable.
November 15, 2016
This is my 4th story from Jordan and I her unique form of fantasy writing has definitely taken on its own identity for me.
Through this journey the improvements in characterizations and the portrayal and growth of the characters have improved 10 fold. In Victorian I really grew attached to the protagonists, and even got a real sense of those people closes to them.
Firstly, I need to admit that I am not a fan of the ghost genre. It simply doesn't normally make sense. However in Victorian it just works. It is so pivotal in understanding Celeste and Weronika and their individual backgrounds and the hurdles they needed to overcome to heal and grow.
Additionally the little plot revelations that are provided every now and then were absolutely brilliant. I really had some 'wow' moments through the book, ranging from heart wrenching to absolute awe.
This is a well written book about pain, loss, hope, and healing. Great novel!
Through this journey the improvements in characterizations and the portrayal and growth of the characters have improved 10 fold. In Victorian I really grew attached to the protagonists, and even got a real sense of those people closes to them.
Firstly, I need to admit that I am not a fan of the ghost genre. It simply doesn't normally make sense. However in Victorian it just works. It is so pivotal in understanding Celeste and Weronika and their individual backgrounds and the hurdles they needed to overcome to heal and grow.
Additionally the little plot revelations that are provided every now and then were absolutely brilliant. I really had some 'wow' moments through the book, ranging from heart wrenching to absolute awe.
This is a well written book about pain, loss, hope, and healing. Great novel!
June 20, 2016
I really enjoyed this. It was well written and the fair setting was fun. I enjoyed the characters and would love to see another story with these characters. My only teeny, tiny criticism was it took a little long to find out the background of both the girls. I would like to see where each of them go next. I would like to see them in a fun setting like the fair. I would also like to see where each of them go with the boys and friends in their lives. I have read several of Jordan's books and will enjoy reading more. I can recommend! Great storyteller and a creative mind!
October 2, 2016
Victorian. Ghosts, fairs and secrets all wrapped up in one cozy story. I was pleasantly surprised throughout the story. You never know who is a ghost and who isn't.It was a little crazy to read a story where seeing ghosts is normal. Every character just seems to think its the norm. Very surprised by both both girls tragic past. I like they way neither one give up but keeps on pushing through until they are able to heal. Full video review on YouTube channel Adventures-IN-Print. https://youtu.be/KgR8woxqmVw
September 1, 2016
There are so many things about this book that I loved! It was very well written, with very realistic characters. There are some twists and turns that are really unexpected. I also think that Jordan took some really tough situations and went through describing the coping mechanisms and behaviors that may really develop from these issues. All of the things combined, the author put together an awesome story of ghosts, troubled teens, and a Victorian fair.
June 18, 2016
Very interesting story. The characters were crazy but fun. I loved the mix of supernatural thrown into this also. Having a ghost is amazing and the girls were so much fun to read. I am glad I got to review it
December 31, 2016
This book was beautifully written. It kept me wondering and worrying about the characters, who were easy to grow very fond of, for all their prickliness. It touched my heart and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good story and isn't afraid to met a few ghosts.
May 11, 2017
4.5 Stars!
Woohoo! So far this author is 2 - 0 for me! Another great one. To begin with - I love ghost stories. Especially ones with a lot of "ghostly activity", and this one had it. It was like Jordan was not afraid or intimidated to put ghosts in her book. She met the challenge head on and it was a success!
I have to admit it started out a little slow for me and I wasn't sure where the book was headed. Then about 1/3 of the way in it started getting real good and I couldn't put it down.
The thing is, this wasn't just a ghost story. It was about hurting and recovering, healing. It was so emotional and heartfelt (but then also fun because of the ghosts lol). There were a couple of shockers in here where I actually gasped out loud. I turned to see if my husband had heard me but he was in the bedroom - good thing :-)
This is about two teen girls - Celeste and Weronika. Each girl had a "past", each had been deeply hurt, each needed healing, and each could see ghosts. But, each girl was so very different. They come together in a counseling circle and these two opposites become friends, bond, and help each other.
Another original well written story by this author. Can't wait to read the next!
On May 16, 2017 I will be reviewing The Goat Children by this same author.
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Jordan Elizabeth - Thank You!
Woohoo! So far this author is 2 - 0 for me! Another great one. To begin with - I love ghost stories. Especially ones with a lot of "ghostly activity", and this one had it. It was like Jordan was not afraid or intimidated to put ghosts in her book. She met the challenge head on and it was a success!
I have to admit it started out a little slow for me and I wasn't sure where the book was headed. Then about 1/3 of the way in it started getting real good and I couldn't put it down.
The thing is, this wasn't just a ghost story. It was about hurting and recovering, healing. It was so emotional and heartfelt (but then also fun because of the ghosts lol). There were a couple of shockers in here where I actually gasped out loud. I turned to see if my husband had heard me but he was in the bedroom - good thing :-)
This is about two teen girls - Celeste and Weronika. Each girl had a "past", each had been deeply hurt, each needed healing, and each could see ghosts. But, each girl was so very different. They come together in a counseling circle and these two opposites become friends, bond, and help each other.
Another original well written story by this author. Can't wait to read the next!
On May 16, 2017 I will be reviewing The Goat Children by this same author.
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Jordan Elizabeth - Thank You!
May 23, 2020
This is my review of the audio version as posted on Audible:
It's a atrange story but overall quite entertainig (though a bit slow...) :)
Throughout most of the book I couldn't decide which is the focal point of the story: a history of two teenagers coming to terms with their traumas or a paranormal tale of two teenagers seeing ghosts and trying to help them "go peacefully to the other side"...
If the first one, some parts of the girls' stories felt a bit too shallow, too rushed and too easily solved; if the second, the "investigation" went too slowly and again too easily...
But, surprisingly, with all that said, I really liked the book and listened to it with real pleasure. I liked the idea of dual narration: Veronica's and Celeste's points of view allowed for different perspectives on things and seeing the secondary characters through the girls' eyes made them more real. I laso liked the background plots of the tragedy behind the ghost town and the Victorian Fair Veronica and Celeste join as employees.
I also liked the narration of the book by Ms Thomas; she voiced all the characters really well, both male and female, and her interpretation of the narrative parts was spot on.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
It's a atrange story but overall quite entertainig (though a bit slow...) :)
Throughout most of the book I couldn't decide which is the focal point of the story: a history of two teenagers coming to terms with their traumas or a paranormal tale of two teenagers seeing ghosts and trying to help them "go peacefully to the other side"...
If the first one, some parts of the girls' stories felt a bit too shallow, too rushed and too easily solved; if the second, the "investigation" went too slowly and again too easily...
But, surprisingly, with all that said, I really liked the book and listened to it with real pleasure. I liked the idea of dual narration: Veronica's and Celeste's points of view allowed for different perspectives on things and seeing the secondary characters through the girls' eyes made them more real. I laso liked the background plots of the tragedy behind the ghost town and the Victorian Fair Veronica and Celeste join as employees.
I also liked the narration of the book by Ms Thomas; she voiced all the characters really well, both male and female, and her interpretation of the narrative parts was spot on.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
August 4, 2017
Celeste and Weronika meet at a counseling circle, though they seem to have nothing in common they become friends, and they get jobs at a local Victorian faire together that happens to be haunted. Celeste is excited to have a friend, as things have been hard for her ever since her dad left. Weronika can see ghosts, and doesn't mind telling anyone who will listen, as long as they don't question who the ghosts are. Both of these girls have secrets in their pasts that they are trying to hide. Will working at the faire help them move on from their own past, or will they be as stuck as the ghosts?
I really enjoyed the relationship between Celeste and Weronika, but could have done without the whole Victorian faire. I feel like they story could have been done just as well without that part, every time they were at the faire the book became predictable and I feel like nothing was really added to the story. This is a slow book, but it's rewarding to finally find out the girls' truths though I would have rather read more about the aftermath of their honesty. I normally enjoy ghost stories, but most of the ghosts in this story felt more like a hinderance. I rated this a three out of five.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Celeste and Weronika, but could have done without the whole Victorian faire. I feel like they story could have been done just as well without that part, every time they were at the faire the book became predictable and I feel like nothing was really added to the story. This is a slow book, but it's rewarding to finally find out the girls' truths though I would have rather read more about the aftermath of their honesty. I normally enjoy ghost stories, but most of the ghosts in this story felt more like a hinderance. I rated this a three out of five.
June 2, 2020
Two girls. Two troubled pasts. When they meet in therapy, Veronica isn’t sure what it is that draws her to mousey Celeste, but the two become instant friends. When they both get hired at a Victorian fair, they’re elated. Each of them has their reasons for wanting the job. However, neither of them know that the fair will help them recover from their past. The ghosts there will make sure of it.
Veronica wasn’t a likeable character, but she was spunky. She used her sharp tongue to hide her hurt. For a large majority of the book, I didn’t like her, but when her backstory was revealed, I felt bad for her. Celeste got the opposite feelings from me. I liked her immediately. She was quiet but kind, and when her past was revealed, it tied in well with the suspense of the fair grounds.
Veronica and Celeste are an unlikely pair, but as their friendship blossoms into something beautiful. Both girls see some thorough character development making this a fantastic friendship/hurt & comfort story.
Narration was fantastic.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
Veronica wasn’t a likeable character, but she was spunky. She used her sharp tongue to hide her hurt. For a large majority of the book, I didn’t like her, but when her backstory was revealed, I felt bad for her. Celeste got the opposite feelings from me. I liked her immediately. She was quiet but kind, and when her past was revealed, it tied in well with the suspense of the fair grounds.
Veronica and Celeste are an unlikely pair, but as their friendship blossoms into something beautiful. Both girls see some thorough character development making this a fantastic friendship/hurt & comfort story.
Narration was fantastic.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
December 5, 2016
I tend to agree with many of the reviewers. Victorian by Jordan Elizabeth is full of heart and self-healing. The novel revolves around Celeste and Weronika, and I liked Zander. (Celeste's friend) The girls are in a counseling group and in dire need of healing of mind, body, heart, and soul. And each girls' past seems to haunt them in the process when healing is needed most. They get jobs with a Renaissance Fair which is quite interesting in itself. It's the presence of ghosts and supernatural occurrences ups the entire storyline, and catapults the girls into a mystery.
September 8, 2018
This story is beautiful, combining ghosts and historical reenactments with the tales of two girls trying to come to terms with the hidden (to the public at least) traumas in their lives. I really enjoyed the book and found it dealt with the subjects sensitively and yet in a way that was still appealing to the reader. A great read for all ages from young adults up, and one I highly recommend.
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
March 7, 2019
Victorian by Jordan Elizabeth is a great story that I got to read. I really enjoyed reading this story very much cause it has fantasy involved in this story. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about fantasy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2019
She is trying to get over her dark last and so when she gets a summer job. She is happy and she is soon enjoying herself. How will it all.go?.What adventures will she have? See by reading
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2019
A story about two girls who meet at a counselling session and become friends. They get jobs at a Victorian Fair.
April 6, 2018
I was given this story for free for an honest review.
This was another great story by Jordan Mierek; this is the fourth story she’s allowed me to read for free as long as I supply a review. I did have a lot questions about this story and some parts that didn't add up for me. Anyways, I am always a fan of stories that involve multiple points of views, of course, they have to be done properly. Thankfully, Jordan knows what she’s doing in that regard. On that note, I did find it questionable that four different characters were able to see ghosts but not see the same ones.
Questions/Comments:
Near the beginning of the story when they’re still getting the fair set up, there’s an incident with a little girl (turns out to be Marina’s daughter) and a little boy. Who was the little boy?
(P. 77) “I froze, becoming my own movie. I didn’t stand in the theater’s entrance with Nate’s hands on my hips…” (She ‘didn’t’ stand in the theater’s entrance? Obviously, she didn’t want to be in that situation with her aunt right there, but she was.)
(P. 81) “This,” he said to a girl in a black dress, “is who I wished I could marry in that play. You’re just way too dowdy for me.” (That whole conversation is confusing; it could just be me though. Originally I had thought it was Nate, but it wasn’t until the next chapter that I found out it was Verne. So he’s talking to some other girl about wanting to marry her, I assume this is towards Weronika, in whatever play they’d been in? Find out next chapter that it’s Peter Pan. And he tells the random girl in the black dress that she’s too dowdy for him and this causes Weronika to blush? I’m lost.)
(P. 98) Celeste talks to two young men, one of them is reading an Amish love story. She ends up heading towards the bridge, smells something and coughs. The guys hear, and one of them asks if she’s okay. How did he suddenly become a ‘man’? If he’s described as a ‘young man’, interested in the girl next door, and living with his mom, I can’t imagine he would have been an adult. So suddenly referring to him as a ‘man’ doesn’t sound right.
(P. 124) “I hadn’t been to a sleepover since elementary school. Did college graduates still have sleepovers?” (Celeste is fifteen and there was never any mention of her having gone to college.)
Weronika is almost seventeen-years-old and has yet to get her period. “If I was just getting it, I would have a serious medical condition.” Well, obviously she does considering she HASN’T received it yet.
I’ve never heard of an Amish family not living in an Amish community. For one family, only one, to move next door to one of the guys working at the fair sounds strange. Considering they're known to now use electricity and running water…
Celeste: “I, a harmless and normal volunteer, shouldn’t have been trying to find anyone in the ancient cemetery.” Huh? That seems like a strange thing to say.
If Lisa had decided that she was really a girl, why did she keep the facial hair? It’s one thing to not get laser-hair removal and have to continue shaving, but it’s a whole other story to have a mustache and beard.
When Kristina is talking to the security guard that arrives, after getting mad at Weronika, why does she tell him all that she does? She tells him about Donna and being a good worker and Celeste and how her father is in jail…he’s a security guard. Why would she say all that when they’re basically in the same room and can hear her? That part didn’t really make sense to me.
What kind of apartment does Celeste live in that she has a porch?
When Weronika shows Celeste where the ghost boy died (her brother) and the other older ghost shows up (he’s unknown), Weronika decides they need to leave. The end. The next chapter starts with the following day. Considering Weronika had mean parents, I’m surprised more wasn’t mentioned after she and Celeste got back to the house and she introduced Celeste to them.
This was another great story by Jordan Mierek; this is the fourth story she’s allowed me to read for free as long as I supply a review. I did have a lot questions about this story and some parts that didn't add up for me. Anyways, I am always a fan of stories that involve multiple points of views, of course, they have to be done properly. Thankfully, Jordan knows what she’s doing in that regard. On that note, I did find it questionable that four different characters were able to see ghosts but not see the same ones.
Questions/Comments:
Near the beginning of the story when they’re still getting the fair set up, there’s an incident with a little girl (turns out to be Marina’s daughter) and a little boy. Who was the little boy?
(P. 77) “I froze, becoming my own movie. I didn’t stand in the theater’s entrance with Nate’s hands on my hips…” (She ‘didn’t’ stand in the theater’s entrance? Obviously, she didn’t want to be in that situation with her aunt right there, but she was.)
(P. 81) “This,” he said to a girl in a black dress, “is who I wished I could marry in that play. You’re just way too dowdy for me.” (That whole conversation is confusing; it could just be me though. Originally I had thought it was Nate, but it wasn’t until the next chapter that I found out it was Verne. So he’s talking to some other girl about wanting to marry her, I assume this is towards Weronika, in whatever play they’d been in? Find out next chapter that it’s Peter Pan. And he tells the random girl in the black dress that she’s too dowdy for him and this causes Weronika to blush? I’m lost.)
(P. 98) Celeste talks to two young men, one of them is reading an Amish love story. She ends up heading towards the bridge, smells something and coughs. The guys hear, and one of them asks if she’s okay. How did he suddenly become a ‘man’? If he’s described as a ‘young man’, interested in the girl next door, and living with his mom, I can’t imagine he would have been an adult. So suddenly referring to him as a ‘man’ doesn’t sound right.
(P. 124) “I hadn’t been to a sleepover since elementary school. Did college graduates still have sleepovers?” (Celeste is fifteen and there was never any mention of her having gone to college.)
Weronika is almost seventeen-years-old and has yet to get her period. “If I was just getting it, I would have a serious medical condition.” Well, obviously she does considering she HASN’T received it yet.
I’ve never heard of an Amish family not living in an Amish community. For one family, only one, to move next door to one of the guys working at the fair sounds strange. Considering they're known to now use electricity and running water…
Celeste: “I, a harmless and normal volunteer, shouldn’t have been trying to find anyone in the ancient cemetery.” Huh? That seems like a strange thing to say.
If Lisa had decided that she was really a girl, why did she keep the facial hair? It’s one thing to not get laser-hair removal and have to continue shaving, but it’s a whole other story to have a mustache and beard.
When Kristina is talking to the security guard that arrives, after getting mad at Weronika, why does she tell him all that she does? She tells him about Donna and being a good worker and Celeste and how her father is in jail…he’s a security guard. Why would she say all that when they’re basically in the same room and can hear her? That part didn’t really make sense to me.
What kind of apartment does Celeste live in that she has a porch?
When Weronika shows Celeste where the ghost boy died (her brother) and the other older ghost shows up (he’s unknown), Weronika decides they need to leave. The end. The next chapter starts with the following day. Considering Weronika had mean parents, I’m surprised more wasn’t mentioned after she and Celeste got back to the house and she introduced Celeste to them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2017
Goes down as another off my 2017 Bookworm Bingo Challenge – A book published in 2016. Interesting, intricate read that follows two main characters – Weronika and Celeste (though her real first name is Aeltye). Following them while they struggle with their troubled pasts as they help out at a historical 1867 Victorian summer fair.
Story starts with a counselling session for teenagers. Each is being troubled by something from their past or present and it’s where we first meet Weronika and Celeste. Each have very different reasons for being there but a friendship is formed straight away. Its almost like they see a kindred spirit, or can sense the others pain and want to help. Both have trouble making friends so they sort of cling to each other once the bond has been formed.
Celeste is the first to find out about historical 1867 Victorian summer fair coming to the area from her cousin Donna. She likes the idea of the fair because she can be someone new there. No one will know the real her and she can explore being someone else from the Victorian era. It would be a form of escapism for a little while. She may love her family and want to protect them; especially her younger brother Eli, but she needs to find a release and the fair might help her do that. Every weekend over the summer seems like a good idea at the time but things start to change once she learns more about the history of the Reese Village. It seems that everyone died mysteriously and no one knows what really happened. Legend has it that ghosts still linger at the village. Whether they need help or not is still to be seen but Celeste feels compelled to do something to help them move on. Also it has a little something to do with the fact she can actually see the ghosts that are there.
Once Weronika finds out about the fair she longs to join too. Not so much to meet new people but just so she can get out of her house, away from her parents and away from the memories that haunt her. Memories aren’t the only thing that haunts her as she also sees two ghosts there. A mystery for one but she knows the story for the other, one she tries to forget. She has been living in pain surrounded by parents who don’t really see her. She rebels with her actions and boyfriend Nate, the only one who really knows her and her past, but really it’s a cry for help. After a little while into the book though the focus gets pulled away from her and focuses more on Celeste’s journey trying to find out what really happened all those years ago.
Celeste along with another new friend Zander start searching for clues. He has had a troubled upbringing too, one she won’t pry into. It’s when she says this that he knows she has something she wouldn’t want people prying into as well. You know something bad happened to her brother and her but are left in the dark until she’s ready to face the past. I think once she starts to help the ghosts she finds she’s ready to let go of her demons too so she can move on.
I liked the interesting paranormal twist linking in with the intricate back-stories of both main characters. Seems everyone needed help, they just needed to find the right person or place along the way to get there. I liked the setting of the fair and how when Celeste saw certain past memories or ghostly planes you caught glimpses of the real village. It was almost like she was pulled back to see what she needed to see to figure out what really happened. Great characters that had a lot of depth and kept you gripped till the end where you could figure out what really happened to them and how they are going to move past it.
I received this ARC from the author for my honest review.
https://readingnook84.wordpress.com/2...
Story starts with a counselling session for teenagers. Each is being troubled by something from their past or present and it’s where we first meet Weronika and Celeste. Each have very different reasons for being there but a friendship is formed straight away. Its almost like they see a kindred spirit, or can sense the others pain and want to help. Both have trouble making friends so they sort of cling to each other once the bond has been formed.
Celeste is the first to find out about historical 1867 Victorian summer fair coming to the area from her cousin Donna. She likes the idea of the fair because she can be someone new there. No one will know the real her and she can explore being someone else from the Victorian era. It would be a form of escapism for a little while. She may love her family and want to protect them; especially her younger brother Eli, but she needs to find a release and the fair might help her do that. Every weekend over the summer seems like a good idea at the time but things start to change once she learns more about the history of the Reese Village. It seems that everyone died mysteriously and no one knows what really happened. Legend has it that ghosts still linger at the village. Whether they need help or not is still to be seen but Celeste feels compelled to do something to help them move on. Also it has a little something to do with the fact she can actually see the ghosts that are there.
Once Weronika finds out about the fair she longs to join too. Not so much to meet new people but just so she can get out of her house, away from her parents and away from the memories that haunt her. Memories aren’t the only thing that haunts her as she also sees two ghosts there. A mystery for one but she knows the story for the other, one she tries to forget. She has been living in pain surrounded by parents who don’t really see her. She rebels with her actions and boyfriend Nate, the only one who really knows her and her past, but really it’s a cry for help. After a little while into the book though the focus gets pulled away from her and focuses more on Celeste’s journey trying to find out what really happened all those years ago.
Celeste along with another new friend Zander start searching for clues. He has had a troubled upbringing too, one she won’t pry into. It’s when she says this that he knows she has something she wouldn’t want people prying into as well. You know something bad happened to her brother and her but are left in the dark until she’s ready to face the past. I think once she starts to help the ghosts she finds she’s ready to let go of her demons too so she can move on.
I liked the interesting paranormal twist linking in with the intricate back-stories of both main characters. Seems everyone needed help, they just needed to find the right person or place along the way to get there. I liked the setting of the fair and how when Celeste saw certain past memories or ghostly planes you caught glimpses of the real village. It was almost like she was pulled back to see what she needed to see to figure out what really happened. Great characters that had a lot of depth and kept you gripped till the end where you could figure out what really happened to them and how they are going to move past it.
I received this ARC from the author for my honest review.
https://readingnook84.wordpress.com/2...
July 15, 2016
Combining the all-consuming intensity of teenage concerns with the tropes of classic ghost stories, Elizabeth amplifies the tension of each.
Outwardly different yet each having their own reason for hiding, Celeste and Weronika volunteer at the local Victorian Fair. At first it seems a haven from their problems; but as the summer progresses, working for the fair brings its own set of issues, both mundane and supernatural. Issues that will force Celeste and Weronika to face the ghosts of their pasts and others.
The novel shifts point of view between Celeste and Weronika. While this offers – on the surface – two quite different narratives, Elizabeth builds each upon a shared foundation of statis. In addition to providing an unconscious link to support the overt connection of their burgeoning friendship, this echoes the behaviour loop displayed by the ghosts that haunt the area.
This parallel between the protagonist’s problems and those of the ghosts continues throughout the arc, with efforts to resolve hauntings providing some escape from mundane traumas.
With significant threads of relationships, friendships, siblings, and parental approval, this novel has a decided young adult tone. However, both the traumas that have scarred the protagonists and the causes of the ghostly infestations would not be out of place in either literary or horror fiction, and thus offer plenty for readers who no longer feel the intensities of teenage life.
Although Elizabeth skilfully shifts between protagonists and types of challenge, balancing new revelation with new mystery, readers might feel a few things are hidden for narrative rather than character reasons. In particular, Celeste’s reaction to seeing a ghost makes sense in light of later description of her childhood, but her failure to think of those reasons when Weronika starts talking about ghosts the first time they meet does not.
While both protagonists are shaped by a horrific event in their past, they handle it differently: Celeste has withdrawn into herself, becoming quiet and caring to the point of privileging her family’s interests above her own; Weronika vacillates between histrionics and hidden rebellion, rejecting her parent’s desires without effectively challenging them. This contrast in coping mechanisms, and the resulting difference in how they develop as the story progresses prevents their journeys to self-acceptance seeming overly repetitious.
As befits a story built around pretence, the supporting cast mostly display one or two strong traits rather than a nuanced complexity, creating a balladic simplicity.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I recommend it to readers seeking a traditional ghost narrative reframed from a young adult perspective.
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for a fair review.
Outwardly different yet each having their own reason for hiding, Celeste and Weronika volunteer at the local Victorian Fair. At first it seems a haven from their problems; but as the summer progresses, working for the fair brings its own set of issues, both mundane and supernatural. Issues that will force Celeste and Weronika to face the ghosts of their pasts and others.
The novel shifts point of view between Celeste and Weronika. While this offers – on the surface – two quite different narratives, Elizabeth builds each upon a shared foundation of statis. In addition to providing an unconscious link to support the overt connection of their burgeoning friendship, this echoes the behaviour loop displayed by the ghosts that haunt the area.
This parallel between the protagonist’s problems and those of the ghosts continues throughout the arc, with efforts to resolve hauntings providing some escape from mundane traumas.
With significant threads of relationships, friendships, siblings, and parental approval, this novel has a decided young adult tone. However, both the traumas that have scarred the protagonists and the causes of the ghostly infestations would not be out of place in either literary or horror fiction, and thus offer plenty for readers who no longer feel the intensities of teenage life.
Although Elizabeth skilfully shifts between protagonists and types of challenge, balancing new revelation with new mystery, readers might feel a few things are hidden for narrative rather than character reasons. In particular, Celeste’s reaction to seeing a ghost makes sense in light of later description of her childhood, but her failure to think of those reasons when Weronika starts talking about ghosts the first time they meet does not.
While both protagonists are shaped by a horrific event in their past, they handle it differently: Celeste has withdrawn into herself, becoming quiet and caring to the point of privileging her family’s interests above her own; Weronika vacillates between histrionics and hidden rebellion, rejecting her parent’s desires without effectively challenging them. This contrast in coping mechanisms, and the resulting difference in how they develop as the story progresses prevents their journeys to self-acceptance seeming overly repetitious.
As befits a story built around pretence, the supporting cast mostly display one or two strong traits rather than a nuanced complexity, creating a balladic simplicity.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I recommend it to readers seeking a traditional ghost narrative reframed from a young adult perspective.
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for a fair review.
June 28, 2016
This was another solid story from Jordan Elizabeth. I enjoyed the paranormal aspect, and I found its understatement refreshing. This wasn't a ghost story. The heart and soul of the book was its modern day, living and breathing characters. It was their inner turmoil and self discovery that really made the story shine. The ghosts in this book were more a background installation that aided in the storytelling and helped to bridge a gap between the past and the present. Don't get me wrong, the story wouldn't have been complete or even fully possible without them. They simply did not give this story it's backbone.
I am not typically a fan of historical novels, but once again Elizabeth did a great job of incorporating a historical vibe and setting that was not over powering. In truth the story pretty much takes place in a modern day world, but she sets a slight historical setting within it. At no point did I feel the story was tedious or that I was losing interest, which is generally my complaint when reading anything "historical". So, in that I say "well done".
There were a couple of parts that I wasn't completely sold on. For one, I kind of felt Celeste's big secret fell a little flat. There was so much build up leading up to its unveiling, that when it finally came out it just seemed a little lackluster or too easy. In that arena, I was expecting more. My second complaint would be with how Weronika's story drew to a close. Again, there was so much emotion and history leading up to this point, and then it all seemed to come together a little too unrealistically for my tastes. I think for as much time as was spent developing the characters and their backstory, that a little more time could have been used to craft a more believable close to the story of said characters. All in all though, I found I quite liked this book. There were a couple of excellent "Whoa! Really?!" moments that I totally did not expect. So those were awesome.
Thanks so much to Jordan Elizabeth for providing me with this review copy and opportunity. It's been a pleasure, as always. I'd say this was easily deserving of 4-4.5 stars.
I am not typically a fan of historical novels, but once again Elizabeth did a great job of incorporating a historical vibe and setting that was not over powering. In truth the story pretty much takes place in a modern day world, but she sets a slight historical setting within it. At no point did I feel the story was tedious or that I was losing interest, which is generally my complaint when reading anything "historical". So, in that I say "well done".
There were a couple of parts that I wasn't completely sold on. For one, I kind of felt Celeste's big secret fell a little flat. There was so much build up leading up to its unveiling, that when it finally came out it just seemed a little lackluster or too easy. In that arena, I was expecting more. My second complaint would be with how Weronika's story drew to a close. Again, there was so much emotion and history leading up to this point, and then it all seemed to come together a little too unrealistically for my tastes. I think for as much time as was spent developing the characters and their backstory, that a little more time could have been used to craft a more believable close to the story of said characters. All in all though, I found I quite liked this book. There were a couple of excellent "Whoa! Really?!" moments that I totally did not expect. So those were awesome.
Thanks so much to Jordan Elizabeth for providing me with this review copy and opportunity. It's been a pleasure, as always. I'd say this was easily deserving of 4-4.5 stars.
November 5, 2016
I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/14267899
I must reveal up front that I've reviewed some of this author's previous books and received from her an eBook review copy in June, just before publication, but have only gotten to read it while on holidays last month.
I am somewhat bemused by the classification of the book on Amazon as "Horror -> Occult". I can see the alternative options of Fantasy, Paranormal & Urban, and even a broad definition of "Occult" if you think that means ghosts, but "Horror", never. There is nothing scary in this story, apart from the real world secrets that the three main characters hold. There is no need to invent demons with the evil that men do.
The pacing of the novel is reasonably slow, but very smooth, as the reader comes to learn what secrets that Celeste and Weronika, and Celestes' brother, hold. As Celeste gradually learns that she can see and talk to ghosts, and there is a pretty big reveal in her home life near the end of the book too, and comes to want to help them move on, she is able to grow and move on herself.
I'd recommend this to teens (and adults) who are looking for a very well crafted mystery, where the true story is about personal growth and coming to terms with the past.
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/14267899
I must reveal up front that I've reviewed some of this author's previous books and received from her an eBook review copy in June, just before publication, but have only gotten to read it while on holidays last month.
I am somewhat bemused by the classification of the book on Amazon as "Horror -> Occult". I can see the alternative options of Fantasy, Paranormal & Urban, and even a broad definition of "Occult" if you think that means ghosts, but "Horror", never. There is nothing scary in this story, apart from the real world secrets that the three main characters hold. There is no need to invent demons with the evil that men do.
The pacing of the novel is reasonably slow, but very smooth, as the reader comes to learn what secrets that Celeste and Weronika, and Celestes' brother, hold. As Celeste gradually learns that she can see and talk to ghosts, and there is a pretty big reveal in her home life near the end of the book too, and comes to want to help them move on, she is able to grow and move on herself.
I'd recommend this to teens (and adults) who are looking for a very well crafted mystery, where the true story is about personal growth and coming to terms with the past.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews