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The Disillusionists #3
Head Rush
JUSTINE JONES FACES HER ULTIMATE HERSELF
In an attempt to put her unhappy past behind her, Justine Jones throws herself into nursing school and planning her wedding to Otto Sanchez, the man of her dreams. But something is off. Random details aren’t adding up…and is it her imagination, or are her friends and fiancé keeping secrets from her? And what’s with the strange sense of unease, and her odd new headaches?
Justine tries to stay upbeat as Midcity cowers under martial law, sleepwalking cannibals, and a mysterious rash of paranormal copycat violence, but her search for answers leads her into the most dangerous mind game yet.
With the help of unlikely allies, including her paranoid dad and best frenemy Simon, Justine fights her ultimate foe…and unravels the most startling mystery of all.
In an attempt to put her unhappy past behind her, Justine Jones throws herself into nursing school and planning her wedding to Otto Sanchez, the man of her dreams. But something is off. Random details aren’t adding up…and is it her imagination, or are her friends and fiancé keeping secrets from her? And what’s with the strange sense of unease, and her odd new headaches?
Justine tries to stay upbeat as Midcity cowers under martial law, sleepwalking cannibals, and a mysterious rash of paranormal copycat violence, but her search for answers leads her into the most dangerous mind game yet.
With the help of unlikely allies, including her paranoid dad and best frenemy Simon, Justine fights her ultimate foe…and unravels the most startling mystery of all.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2011
19 people are currently reading
1984 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Crane
25 books1,161 followersAfter spending her youth thoroughly obsessed with Nancy Drew and Harriet the Spy and convinced that her suburban neighborhood was awash in dangerous secrets, Carolyn Crane grew up to become a RITA-nominated author of romantic suspense, urban fantasy, and other tales of adventure and love; she also writes erotic romance about bank robbers as Annika Martin.
Her books have been published by Random House and Samhain; these days, this perfectionistic control-freak of an author likes to indie publish. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband and two cats and works a straight job as a freelance marketing writer. During rare moments when she’s not at her computer, she can be found reading in bed, running, or helping animals.
Her books have been published by Random House and Samhain; these days, this perfectionistic control-freak of an author likes to indie publish. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband and two cats and works a straight job as a freelance marketing writer. During rare moments when she’s not at her computer, she can be found reading in bed, running, or helping animals.
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July 24, 2017
Head Rush, the final book in The Disillusionists Trilogy, proves that sometimes great things really do happen in threes!
This review is for the third book in Carolyn Crane's "Disillusionists" trilogy, and while I'll be avoiding spoilers for this book, the following review will contain MAJOR spoilers for Mind Games and Double Cross . If you haven't read those two books yet, please promise me two things:
1. You will go check out Mind Games and Double Cross. They are absolutely mindblowing, and filled with action, humor, quirky but lovable heroes, deliciously twisted villains, paranormal romance, and drama! If you're a fan of YA, PR, UF...heck,if you're a fan of reading in general, you should find something in those books to love!
2. You will not read this review any further until you've read both those books first...you're getting the better end of the deal, Crane's books are far more entertaining than my reviews, anyway! ;)
Now, if you can promise me you're all caught up in the Disillusionists trilogy, you may proceed!
Justine Jones should be on top of the world right now. She's days away from marrying Mayor Otto Sanchez and becoming the official First Lady of Midway City. But instead she feels like her world is falling apart. She's still reeling from Packard's betrayal, which ended with the murder of an innocent man. And the only friends she has in her life seem to be keeping her at a distance. Soon Justine begins to suspect that nothing in her life is what is seems. And to make matters worse, she still has feelings for Packard, even though he's currently wanted for murder. When everything you know is a lie, can you still trust your heart?
"Head Rush" picks up where the shocking ending of "Double Cross" left off...Justine and Packard had just professed their love for each other, when Justine witnessed Mayor Otto Sanchez commit the cold-blooded murder of Avery. Before Justine could react, her mind was invaded by Otto's ruthless assistant Sophia, and Justine's memories were altered to make her believe that Packard was the one who killed Avery and that she declared Otto to be the man she loved! I was a little afraid that Crane may run out of steam before reaching the finish line to this trilogy, but Crane manages to go out with a bang by completely changing the tone of this book. While the first two books were more focused on humor and action, this book is much darker and features more drama and suspense than the last two combined! With most of the Disillusionists on the run, the stakes have never been higher. In addition, Otto has become much more powerful, both politically (which enables him to enact martial law on his city) and personally (as he has acquired a stunning new mental ability). By making Justine face impossible odds against an unbeatable villain, Crane had me on the edge of my seat up from page one all the way to the end!
While there's a major shift in atmosphere in this book, that's not to say all the elements I enjoyed from the last two books are absent. The quirky characters I came to love from the last two books are still here. Justine is still vulnerable yet strong. Shelby once again manages to turn obsessive pessimism into an endearing quality. Packard exudes cockiness even while every cop in Midcity is hunting him. And there's still some laugh out loud moments...many of them provided by gambling addict Simon who is given a much meatier role this time around (and was so much fun to read about, it made me wish he had been featured more in the last two books). Also, Justine's germophobic father appears for the first time and lends some additional sweetness to the story, as he shows how much he cares for his daughter and gives her his shoulder to cry on (even if he insists on wearing a hazmat suit while she does it).
Also, while this book doesn't feature as many colorful villains as the last two, there's still enough action to keep things interesting. Sleepwalking cannibals and serial killers with disturbingly-familiar powers lurk the streets of Midcity and add to the excitement. And while the first half of the book is certainly entertaining, the second half is where things get realllly interesting! Shocking revelations and plot twists galore make this book the most powerful entry in the Disillusionists trilogy. I can't discuss them here as that would be spoiling things, but anyone who has already read this book knows exactly what I'm talking about ;)
By completely turning this series on its head, Carolyn Crane has made sure to end her series with a bang and not a whimper. A more-than-satisfying conclusion to a brilliant trilogy! Bravo, Ms. Crane! :D
This review is for the third book in Carolyn Crane's "Disillusionists" trilogy, and while I'll be avoiding spoilers for this book, the following review will contain MAJOR spoilers for Mind Games and Double Cross . If you haven't read those two books yet, please promise me two things:
1. You will go check out Mind Games and Double Cross. They are absolutely mindblowing, and filled with action, humor, quirky but lovable heroes, deliciously twisted villains, paranormal romance, and drama! If you're a fan of YA, PR, UF...heck,if you're a fan of reading in general, you should find something in those books to love!
2. You will not read this review any further until you've read both those books first...you're getting the better end of the deal, Crane's books are far more entertaining than my reviews, anyway! ;)
Now, if you can promise me you're all caught up in the Disillusionists trilogy, you may proceed!
Justine Jones should be on top of the world right now. She's days away from marrying Mayor Otto Sanchez and becoming the official First Lady of Midway City. But instead she feels like her world is falling apart. She's still reeling from Packard's betrayal, which ended with the murder of an innocent man. And the only friends she has in her life seem to be keeping her at a distance. Soon Justine begins to suspect that nothing in her life is what is seems. And to make matters worse, she still has feelings for Packard, even though he's currently wanted for murder. When everything you know is a lie, can you still trust your heart?
"Head Rush" picks up where the shocking ending of "Double Cross" left off...Justine and Packard had just professed their love for each other, when Justine witnessed Mayor Otto Sanchez commit the cold-blooded murder of Avery. Before Justine could react, her mind was invaded by Otto's ruthless assistant Sophia, and Justine's memories were altered to make her believe that Packard was the one who killed Avery and that she declared Otto to be the man she loved! I was a little afraid that Crane may run out of steam before reaching the finish line to this trilogy, but Crane manages to go out with a bang by completely changing the tone of this book. While the first two books were more focused on humor and action, this book is much darker and features more drama and suspense than the last two combined! With most of the Disillusionists on the run, the stakes have never been higher. In addition, Otto has become much more powerful, both politically (which enables him to enact martial law on his city) and personally (as he has acquired a stunning new mental ability). By making Justine face impossible odds against an unbeatable villain, Crane had me on the edge of my seat up from page one all the way to the end!
While there's a major shift in atmosphere in this book, that's not to say all the elements I enjoyed from the last two books are absent. The quirky characters I came to love from the last two books are still here. Justine is still vulnerable yet strong. Shelby once again manages to turn obsessive pessimism into an endearing quality. Packard exudes cockiness even while every cop in Midcity is hunting him. And there's still some laugh out loud moments...many of them provided by gambling addict Simon who is given a much meatier role this time around (and was so much fun to read about, it made me wish he had been featured more in the last two books). Also, Justine's germophobic father appears for the first time and lends some additional sweetness to the story, as he shows how much he cares for his daughter and gives her his shoulder to cry on (even if he insists on wearing a hazmat suit while she does it).
Also, while this book doesn't feature as many colorful villains as the last two, there's still enough action to keep things interesting. Sleepwalking cannibals and serial killers with disturbingly-familiar powers lurk the streets of Midcity and add to the excitement. And while the first half of the book is certainly entertaining, the second half is where things get realllly interesting! Shocking revelations and plot twists galore make this book the most powerful entry in the Disillusionists trilogy. I can't discuss them here as that would be spoiling things, but anyone who has already read this book knows exactly what I'm talking about ;)
By completely turning this series on its head, Carolyn Crane has made sure to end her series with a bang and not a whimper. A more-than-satisfying conclusion to a brilliant trilogy! Bravo, Ms. Crane! :D
December 9, 2011
!!!!!!Gumby saves the day!!!!!!!!
With that I skate off from the man that was once my hero, leaving him there in the dark parking garage, with all his plans, hopes and dreams. This man I will attack and betray tonight. The man I just might die with.
One of the best series finales I have ever read........
I hate it when authors save the last 25 pages for one excitement and action to sum up the series, but no Carolyn Crane starts out with excitement from the very beginning! I was hook line and sinkered from the very first page.
"You love to remind me that I'm a villain, but when I do something villainous you act outraged."
Since the aftermath of the devastating conclusion of Double Cross Justine has become blushing bride to be planning her wedding. Luckily Justina's paranoia comes in very handy in Head Rush where she finds herself questioning her relationship with
The way I'm holding him (Gumby) in the space between us, its like Gumby's a cross I'm using to ward off a vampire. Otto takes this stricken breath just staring at Gumby. And then he shifts his gaze to me, with the weirdest expression, like grief. Like it really is having a vampire-cross effect on him.
Needless to say this quote sums up the ridiculousness
"Gumby has to stay like this. This what Packard gave to me. You tell him that. This happiness. It was all worth it."
Onto my heroic and selfless Packard. Where do I begin with my beloved Packard. He truly is amazing. He's strong and I just can't get enough of him. Each scene he's in I find myself getting all giddy and happy, completely losing myself in this heroic, passionate character. What I love most about him is the fact that he loves Justine despite all her flaws. He encourages Justine to be stronger than her fears, while being careful not lose who she is deep inside. I've had a crush on him since book one and after reading Head Rush I'm madly
Of course I keep replaying that kiss. And I'm also gratified by how tormented he seemed by the idea of my being anywhere near Otto. I suppose it's not right to enjoy that. It's the sort of thing an insecure girl would enjoy.
*sigh*I'm still thinking about the amazingly heroic Sterling Packard! *sigh*
He flings his cape backward over his bare shoulders to reveal his shirt of leather straps and gives her a smile.
Oh my! My! My! My!!! Simon has been the best kept secret of this entire series. He's an amazing friend with
"Be sorry for killer of Avery," Shelby says. "Because I will kill him slowly. And painfully.
Shelby brings plenty of kind hearted friendship along the way of this series. What I love most about Shelby is her loyalty and fierce ruthlessness. She can smile to your face and slice your throat in the same breath. Isn't she wonderful!? LOL. I was pulling for Shelby after the events that occurred in Double Cross because she was a strong character with so much spunk, I loved each and every scene she was in. She's definitely someone you want on your side and not against you!
I don't want to go into many details of the plot because it really truly was amazing, and I was excited and surprised the entire time. Carolyn Crane truly is a brilliant writer and I'm so disappointed this series is ending but now I'm eager to read what she has in store for my reading pleasure next. :)
"You're bigger than your fear, stronger than your fear, and you can outshine it with what you have inside you"
Like what you see here, check out more of my reviews at http://missvainsparanormalfantasy.com/
January 29, 2012
Absolutely amazing!!! Head Rush is a very satisfying end to this fun fun series. Each book in this trilogy is so special to me and they are just plain fun to read. The characters are unique, fun – and well as it has been said quite a bit about this series – quirky. In Head Rush, the characters are dealing with life and death situations, authoritian leaders, imprisonment of their friends and colleagues but in spite of these serious situations, the characters are funny, or maybe I should say FUNNY. For example, we also get some serious roller blading and a bendable gumby toy who plays a key part.
There is romance, but the story is not only romance it is filled with action and threat of death:
“It might even be romantic if the burly Brick Slinger wasn’t stuffed unconscious on the other side of Packard, head lolling on the window, and if there wasn’t a duffel bag of weapons crushing my feet.”
Because this is urban fantasy, each character has a paranormal talent and the talent of the main character is the ability to use her own personal weaknesses and fears and turn them into a weapon. She is a hypochondriac and never has it been so funny to read about a hypochondriac’s lamentations and worries. Justine, the main character, imagines herself a medical expert, for example at one point when responding to a medical problem she says,
“As a nurse, or almost nurse …”
..the funny part? Justine is NOT a nurse nor in nursing school. She just reads medical articles driven by her own internal fear. Yet she imagines that this knowledge she gains (purely fear driven knowledge) is equivalent to those in the medical field.
Like many urban fantasy books, this trilogy involves a love triangle – but before you close out this review and decide not to read this fabulous series let me say that the love triangle is very unlike anything in the other popular urban fantasy books. It is the best -- yes the best -- love triangle I have ever read. There is a true villain in these stories, a conflicted heroine (who at times does not understand she is conflicted, but her confusion results from the best reasons), and a dashing hero. I don’t want to give too much away, I want everyone to come to this series fresh and just let it unfold. These books are pure enjoyment, they will make you feel good and they will take you outside of the current confined box that most urban fantasy authors are writing. I highly recommend this entire trilogy and I urge you to run to your bookstore and buy them; all three.
And for those who have read the first two books, yes there is serious pay off for sticking with this fun series. Here is a touching quote from Packard
There is romance, but the story is not only romance it is filled with action and threat of death:
“It might even be romantic if the burly Brick Slinger wasn’t stuffed unconscious on the other side of Packard, head lolling on the window, and if there wasn’t a duffel bag of weapons crushing my feet.”
Because this is urban fantasy, each character has a paranormal talent and the talent of the main character is the ability to use her own personal weaknesses and fears and turn them into a weapon. She is a hypochondriac and never has it been so funny to read about a hypochondriac’s lamentations and worries. Justine, the main character, imagines herself a medical expert, for example at one point when responding to a medical problem she says,
“As a nurse, or almost nurse …”
..the funny part? Justine is NOT a nurse nor in nursing school. She just reads medical articles driven by her own internal fear. Yet she imagines that this knowledge she gains (purely fear driven knowledge) is equivalent to those in the medical field.
Like many urban fantasy books, this trilogy involves a love triangle – but before you close out this review and decide not to read this fabulous series let me say that the love triangle is very unlike anything in the other popular urban fantasy books. It is the best -- yes the best -- love triangle I have ever read. There is a true villain in these stories, a conflicted heroine (who at times does not understand she is conflicted, but her confusion results from the best reasons), and a dashing hero. I don’t want to give too much away, I want everyone to come to this series fresh and just let it unfold. These books are pure enjoyment, they will make you feel good and they will take you outside of the current confined box that most urban fantasy authors are writing. I highly recommend this entire trilogy and I urge you to run to your bookstore and buy them; all three.
And for those who have read the first two books, yes there is serious pay off for sticking with this fun series. Here is a touching quote from Packard
July 6, 2015
I’m not really sure what it is about this entire series but I got sucked in. The writing is good but not great, the plot has a few minor holes and sometimes the escalation/resolution of events is incredibly fast. But the story, the overall premise and the characters really carry this for me. Once I picked it up I had the hardest time setting it back down until it was over. Sometimes that is all you need in a book.
After the crazy ending of Double Cross I had to jump into this book immediately after. There was no time waiting, I needed to know how it would all end. It was another whirlwind ride start to finish and I totally enjoyed all my time.
Justine has a tendency to bother me from time to time in the prior books as she waxed on in her inner dialogue. But in this book she is trying to reconcile her emotions with her knowledge and it was interesting reading how she was working out ‘the situation’ she is in. I actually enjoyed Justine much more in this last book as she finds herself.
I do not want to give too much away because that is sorta the fun of this series. The surprise and resolution of it but it was totally interesting how Justine’s subconscious and emotions played into this story. Some of it is so dark and series so it is a good thing there is Shelby and Simon for some much needed comic relief. Mostly Simon though, he is hilarious in his absurdity.
It’s what all the male bridesmaids will be wearing next season I’m sure. I love that Simon is so unpredictable and in his own way is being the best friend possible to Justine.
The tension build up goes pretty well and I’m so happy that we finally get some tender moments from who was my team from the beginning #teampackard, because it was about time.
But there are also sleepwalking cannibals still left to deal with, a bunch of serial killer copycats running around the city and a megalomaniac to deal with before anyone can have a chance at happiness.
The Ending……well almost everything gets resolved. I still have a few minor general questions but I’m going to let them go because I really enjoyed the entire story. This book nicely rounded out the other two and I’m happy with the overall conclusion to the story.
“I love you. I won’t stop waiting—”
After the crazy ending of Double Cross I had to jump into this book immediately after. There was no time waiting, I needed to know how it would all end. It was another whirlwind ride start to finish and I totally enjoyed all my time.
Justine has a tendency to bother me from time to time in the prior books as she waxed on in her inner dialogue. But in this book she is trying to reconcile her emotions with her knowledge and it was interesting reading how she was working out ‘the situation’ she is in. I actually enjoyed Justine much more in this last book as she finds herself.
I do not want to give too much away because that is sorta the fun of this series. The surprise and resolution of it but it was totally interesting how Justine’s subconscious and emotions played into this story. Some of it is so dark and series so it is a good thing there is Shelby and Simon for some much needed comic relief. Mostly Simon though, he is hilarious in his absurdity.
Simon wears a cape identical to Ez’s, but that’s where the similarity ends. His chest underneath the cape is bare, except for two crisscrosses of leather and one chain, allowing for yet another display of his many dragon tattoos. His black pants are shiny as can be, and his boots reach up nearly to his knees.
The bruises on his face from the impound-lot fight complete the insane effect.
It’s what all the male bridesmaids will be wearing next season I’m sure. I love that Simon is so unpredictable and in his own way is being the best friend possible to Justine.
The tension build up goes pretty well and I’m so happy that we finally get some tender moments from who was my team from the beginning #teampackard, because it was about time.
But there are also sleepwalking cannibals still left to deal with, a bunch of serial killer copycats running around the city and a megalomaniac to deal with before anyone can have a chance at happiness.
The Ending……well almost everything gets resolved. I still have a few minor general questions but I’m going to let them go because I really enjoyed the entire story. This book nicely rounded out the other two and I’m happy with the overall conclusion to the story.
December 13, 2011
Soo if you've seen my other reviews of this author's work you know I ADORE this world she's created and her writing, starting with the first book Mind Games. She takes the idea of a world with comic book hero abilities and grounds it in a cool urban fantasy setting. It's truly unique and comes with an engaging set of characters you want to spend time with. The lead character, Justine, is fascinatingly neurotically funny as a dysfunctional hypochondriac, which make for great internal struggles and dialogue, especially in the first book.
The cliffhanger to book two was ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT, where I couldn't even sleep afterwards for hours because I was so anxious about what was going to happen! The fact that she lost her publisher and released this Third book of the trilogy in ebook format makes me admire her all the more. Make something awesome and get it out there, however you can!
For this concluding book in the trilogy, I have to say I really enjoyed it, it was a bit slow at the beginning, but once she gets her mojo back, and Packard shows back up, then YEAH, it gets suuuuuper yummy! What a great leading man character! I really liked the way she earned her way through to the end, emotionally and physically.
I guess my only critique is that I think there could have been another plotline added to involve Otto more, another bad guy plot or something, because I enjoyed spending more time with his psychosis, and I REALLY dug the zinging missions that happened in book 1, because those were the FUNNEST parts for me of the whole series, the missions of emotional saboteurs. So clever!
I really hope the author keeps exploring the universe, because she's built something super cool here. But whatever she writes I'll be picking up!
The cliffhanger to book two was ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT, where I couldn't even sleep afterwards for hours because I was so anxious about what was going to happen! The fact that she lost her publisher and released this Third book of the trilogy in ebook format makes me admire her all the more. Make something awesome and get it out there, however you can!
For this concluding book in the trilogy, I have to say I really enjoyed it, it was a bit slow at the beginning, but once she gets her mojo back, and Packard shows back up, then YEAH, it gets suuuuuper yummy! What a great leading man character! I really liked the way she earned her way through to the end, emotionally and physically.
I guess my only critique is that I think there could have been another plotline added to involve Otto more, another bad guy plot or something, because I enjoyed spending more time with his psychosis, and I REALLY dug the zinging missions that happened in book 1, because those were the FUNNEST parts for me of the whole series, the missions of emotional saboteurs. So clever!
I really hope the author keeps exploring the universe, because she's built something super cool here. But whatever she writes I'll be picking up!
February 4, 2013
This series lost its charm for me near the beginning of book 2, and while Head Rush wasn't a particularly bad ending to the trilogy, I'm just glad it's over. As for my predictions, I was 50% right. Yippee.
___________________________________________
My predictions for Head Rush:
1. A startling amount of scenes with Justine clutching her head because something isn't sitting well in there.
2. Justine will be about to say "I do" to Otto when Packard raids the wedding and abducts her. Then something like what happened with Eric in SS will happen to Justine and she'll finally get it through her thick skull that Packard is Mr. Right.Okay, so this isn't likely to happen, but it's nice fantasizing about it.
3. Shelby will be right about to kill Packard when Justine steps in front of the guy and takes the bullet instead. For some reason, this will unleash all her stolen memories.
4. Carter and Shelby will end up together. (I really don't see why they haven't already, actually, since they would make such an adorable couple!)
5. Packard will murder Otto like he's always planned, and Justine will kill Sophia.
6. Packard and Justine will live happily forever after. Duh.
___________________________________________
My predictions for Head Rush:
1. A startling amount of scenes with Justine clutching her head because something isn't sitting well in there.
2. Justine will be about to say "I do" to Otto when Packard raids the wedding and abducts her. Then something like what happened with Eric in SS will happen to Justine and she'll finally get it through her thick skull that Packard is Mr. Right.
3. Shelby will be right about to kill Packard when Justine steps in front of the guy and takes the bullet instead. For some reason, this will unleash all her stolen memories.
4. Carter and Shelby will end up together. (I really don't see why they haven't already, actually, since they would make such an adorable couple!)
5. Packard will murder Otto like he's always planned, and Justine will kill Sophia.
6. Packard and Justine will live happily forever after. Duh.
December 10, 2012
There was absolutely nothing interesting about the first half of this book and I pretty much predicted what was going to happen even before the half way point, which deflated my enthusiasm since that took the intrigue out of everything. It picks up eventually, but for me it was too little too late.
Justine's narrative was absolutely unbearable for me a lot of the time, and I think this book would have benefited from being in 3rd person and switching from multiple POVs because I really didn't care about her at all. Where's the fun in her playing catch up? I could see if it was for a chapter or two, but the first half of the book is spent on this. At least everybody else saw some action, but unfortunately we only hear about it in passing.
The atmosphere of this book was very different from the other two where there was more action, gore and grit. There is a "mystery", but it was solved in book 2, so Justine piecing it all together is tedious. I'm aware that I am in the minority, but the romance angle in this series does absolutely nothing for me so that didn't help matters. I would have rather had more disillusionist, high cap and cannibal action than to have seen her juggling between her feelings for Packard and Otto. Bo-ring. We knew where it was going to go, so I just wanted the story to get it over with so that it could move along. This was more about the melodrama with an ending that was too "perfect" for my tastes.
The first book is still my personal favorite. It was really fresh and original to me. This book just doesn't hold a candle to it since you could take out the UF and disillusioning aspect and it would still essentially be the same book.
Based on the merits of the other two books, I still think Carolyn Crane is talented and creative, but this entry makes me hesitant to immediately jump right into her next series. If you've read the other two books, then of course you should finish it out, but for me I probably would have been less annoyed by reading a summary so that I wouldn't have wasted my time.
Justine's narrative was absolutely unbearable for me a lot of the time, and I think this book would have benefited from being in 3rd person and switching from multiple POVs because I really didn't care about her at all. Where's the fun in her playing catch up? I could see if it was for a chapter or two, but the first half of the book is spent on this. At least everybody else saw some action, but unfortunately we only hear about it in passing.
The atmosphere of this book was very different from the other two where there was more action, gore and grit. There is a "mystery", but it was solved in book 2, so Justine piecing it all together is tedious. I'm aware that I am in the minority, but the romance angle in this series does absolutely nothing for me so that didn't help matters. I would have rather had more disillusionist, high cap and cannibal action than to have seen her juggling between her feelings for Packard and Otto. Bo-ring. We knew where it was going to go, so I just wanted the story to get it over with so that it could move along. This was more about the melodrama with an ending that was too "perfect" for my tastes.
The first book is still my personal favorite. It was really fresh and original to me. This book just doesn't hold a candle to it since you could take out the UF and disillusioning aspect and it would still essentially be the same book.
Based on the merits of the other two books, I still think Carolyn Crane is talented and creative, but this entry makes me hesitant to immediately jump right into her next series. If you've read the other two books, then of course you should finish it out, but for me I probably would have been less annoyed by reading a summary so that I wouldn't have wasted my time.
December 12, 2011
To summarize: Happy Gumby = Happy Justine. Happy Justine = Happy Packard. Happy Packard = Happy Jaime.
Go, go, Gumby!!
I loved the ending of this trilogy. I got my Packard fix and then some (see status updates if you don't believe me). Plus there were so many twists and turns, and then the slam-bam ending -- what's not to love? My hat's off to you, Carolyn. It doesn't get better than this.
P.S. Can Simon have a story? Pretty please? And can Packard have a cameo? Because one can never have enough Packard. Just sayin'...
July 18, 2023
“You always find your way to truth, Justine.”
Slowly and painfully for your poor readers, but you do.
The plot
Head Rush is the final installment in The Dissilusionists series. The sleepwalking cannibals are still running through the city, terrorizing everyone. Otto sets a curfew that’s supposed to keep citizens safe, but we all know that he just wants to make his job easier in catching Packard. Justine is still under Otto’s spell, meaning that she still thinks that Packard shot Avery in cold blood. Lots of frustration going on there.
And, most importantly, Head Rush is about THE wedding. Yep, Justine is still going to marry Otto, and nothing can stand in their way. Or so Otto thinks. Little does he know that Justine is one step closer to learning the truth and will stop at nothing to expose him, free her friends and prove Packard’s innocence. The fight is on.
My thoughts
I don’t usually like to read one book after another. I like to take small breaks between books in order to clear my head a bit. However, Double Cross left me floating face-down in a pool of anger, frustration, and sadness. I couldn’t help myself from finding out what happens next.
I finished Head Rush in one day. It’s been months since I managed to do something this crazy. The fact that the book is that good helped a lot. Even so, I still had several problems that I will mention later on.
The fact that Head Rush revolves around Justine and Otto’s soon-to-be wedding bothered me a bit. It felt similar to watching a soap opera.
Will Armando be able to save Sofia from marrying the wrong man? Find out more in the next episode of Flaming Hearts: A Love Story.
I would have liked the story to focus on the sleepwalking cannibals, Packard’s dark past, and his constant competition against Otto.
Packard’s fight to try to make Justine see the truth was a pain in the ass. Justine’s constant denial gave me a headache more than once. As much as Packard compliments Justine about her intelligence, I fail to see it in her actions and thoughts. Justine’s mind is a wild jungle. Stay too long inside it and you’ll get a rash the size of China.
On the plus side we get a HEA and a long awaited properly executed sex scene. My compliments to Mrs. Crane.
A short conclusion
Head Rush is the conclusion to The Dissilusionists trilogy. The book is frustrating to say the least, but thanks to its fast-paced style it reads like a movie so it won’t take much effort to finish. It does provide the conclusion that the average reader is looking for, including a very sweet HEA. Will I read other books written by Carolyn Crane? Hell yeah! Would I recommend the series to my friends? Yes, I surely would.
Favorite quote
With that, I skate off from the man who once was my hero, leaving him there in the dark parking garage with all his plans and hopes and dreams. This man I will betray and attack tonight. The man I just might die with.
May 19, 2012
It sucks so much when I really like the first book in a series and then everything goes downhill in the books to follow. Thank god that the disillusionists was not one of those.
This series kept getting better and better. I don't know if the writing got better or I just got used to it, but everything else definitely did.
I liked all the characters in the first book, loved them in the second one and after the third one, I actually feel like they are my very messed up friends. I even have some twisted love/hate feelings for the villain of the story that Freud would had given his right arm to psychoanalyze, surely.
The action was there from the beginning but the third book successfully delivered the grand finale.
Well done Mrs.Crane. Well done. Can I please have Packard's number now? No? Pity :[
December 8, 2011
Impressive and satisfying conclusion to a series that I'm incredibly sad to see come to an end.
Carolyn Crane, a remarkably talented author, has created an unconventional, often neurotic protagonist that I just can't seem to get enough of.
She's Justine Jones, former disillusionist who now spends her days in Midcity as a medical student.
She's complimented by a secondary cast of characters that can occasionally have her mental struggles as a hypochondriac seem downright normal by comparison.
There's Simon, a reckless, impulsive adrenaline junkie and Shelby, a dark and depressing pessimist who is undoubtedly convinced that happiness is nothing more than a mere illusion. Their bizarre personalities and crazy antics are highly entertaining and the series just wouldn't be the same without them.
Then we have the two leading men in Justine's life. The characters (aside from Justine herself) that created my Disillusionists Trilogy obsession. Otto Sanchez, the mayor of Midcity and Sterling Packard, Justine's former boss and master manipulator.
While Otto is the man that makes Justine feel safe and is her hero and fairy tale come true, Packard is the man that she finds irresistible. He invades her thoughts and makes her feel more alive.
When comparing these two men throughout the series, they've always come across as having this sort of Good vs Evil vibe. But ever since the startling events of Double Cross, things are no longer so black and white and suddenly Justine's unsure of who she can trust.
I can't delve too deep into the majority of the circumstances and situations surrounding this story without giving away Double Cross's shocking ending. What I can tell you is that this book is full of moments that are intense, mysterious, heartbreaking, romantic, and laugh out loud hilarious.
Fans of the Disillusionists should feel satisfied with how the series ends. It's the happily ever after that we've all been eagerly anticipating and I can honestly say that I've enjoyed every single moment.
I can only hope that Crane continues to write and I have my fingers crossed that she is creating another series with more characters that I can fall in love with.
Thank you Mrs. Crane for a brilliant series that I am proud to continue to recommend.
"I've heard it said that trust is both a state of mind, and an activity."
I bore into him with my eyes. I'm going to kill him.
He continues. "Or wait. Is it that trust is a state of mind? Whereas, the lack of trust is an activity?"
I swallow, betraying no emotion.
"Or is it that trust, like love, is a state of the heart? Yes, that's it. And love is a state of the heart, but also, an activity. And quite an awesome one."
Carolyn Crane, a remarkably talented author, has created an unconventional, often neurotic protagonist that I just can't seem to get enough of.
She's Justine Jones, former disillusionist who now spends her days in Midcity as a medical student.
She's complimented by a secondary cast of characters that can occasionally have her mental struggles as a hypochondriac seem downright normal by comparison.
There's Simon, a reckless, impulsive adrenaline junkie and Shelby, a dark and depressing pessimist who is undoubtedly convinced that happiness is nothing more than a mere illusion. Their bizarre personalities and crazy antics are highly entertaining and the series just wouldn't be the same without them.
Then we have the two leading men in Justine's life. The characters (aside from Justine herself) that created my Disillusionists Trilogy obsession. Otto Sanchez, the mayor of Midcity and Sterling Packard, Justine's former boss and master manipulator.
While Otto is the man that makes Justine feel safe and is her hero and fairy tale come true, Packard is the man that she finds irresistible. He invades her thoughts and makes her feel more alive.
When comparing these two men throughout the series, they've always come across as having this sort of Good vs Evil vibe. But ever since the startling events of Double Cross, things are no longer so black and white and suddenly Justine's unsure of who she can trust.
I can't delve too deep into the majority of the circumstances and situations surrounding this story without giving away Double Cross's shocking ending. What I can tell you is that this book is full of moments that are intense, mysterious, heartbreaking, romantic, and laugh out loud hilarious.
Fans of the Disillusionists should feel satisfied with how the series ends. It's the happily ever after that we've all been eagerly anticipating and I can honestly say that I've enjoyed every single moment.
I can only hope that Crane continues to write and I have my fingers crossed that she is creating another series with more characters that I can fall in love with.
Thank you Mrs. Crane for a brilliant series that I am proud to continue to recommend.
"I've heard it said that trust is both a state of mind, and an activity."
I bore into him with my eyes. I'm going to kill him.
He continues. "Or wait. Is it that trust is a state of mind? Whereas, the lack of trust is an activity?"
I swallow, betraying no emotion.
"Or is it that trust, like love, is a state of the heart? Yes, that's it. And love is a state of the heart, but also, an activity. And quite an awesome one."
August 28, 2014
What a fantastic series! The third and last book in the Disillusionists trilogy blew me away! The series is so original and so addictive. People channeling their neurosis into others to lessen crime? Very different, very cool and very unlike any other UF I've read. This is a world that introduces us to highcaps, or high capacity individuals, think telekinesis, dream invasion, structural manipulation...sounds almost X-men like right? Definitely. These are humans with extraordinary skills that defy reality. And sometimes these people use their ability to commit crime, this is where the Disillusionists come in. They intercept by using their neurosis to thwart highcaps, or just regular people in general to stop their crimes.
Going into detail would probably confuse you so I can't recommend this series enough! Justine is an incredible character, I loved her! Her hypochondria surrounding vein star syndrome was ingenious. She grew so much in the series and I'm so glad everything turned out for her. Packard was just as amazing, being a highcap himself, he became the man he's always wanted to be. I loved them together! And Otto...what a complicated character. I feel bittersweet towards him after finishing this series. I hated him at the end of Double Cross, the 2nd book in the trilogy. My hate grew here, but I couldn't help but feel sorry for him after all was said and done.
The secondary characters were wonderful, the setting, the action, the plot...all amazing. What I loved so much about this series was the way the author surprised me over and over again. Nothing was predictable, quite the opposite. The plot was tight and delivered endlessly, flowed beautifully. I never knew what was coming until it happened, so half the time I was gasping or speechless! I can't recommend this series enough, and not just to UF fans, it's a clever and ingenious mix of romance, action, suspense, intrigue and drama. I'm definitely checking out this authors other work and elated I found another series to add to my all time favorite pile! Read it! Loved this to bits!
Going into detail would probably confuse you so I can't recommend this series enough! Justine is an incredible character, I loved her! Her hypochondria surrounding vein star syndrome was ingenious. She grew so much in the series and I'm so glad everything turned out for her. Packard was just as amazing, being a highcap himself, he became the man he's always wanted to be. I loved them together! And Otto...what a complicated character. I feel bittersweet towards him after finishing this series. I hated him at the end of Double Cross, the 2nd book in the trilogy. My hate grew here, but I couldn't help but feel sorry for him after all was said and done.
The secondary characters were wonderful, the setting, the action, the plot...all amazing. What I loved so much about this series was the way the author surprised me over and over again. Nothing was predictable, quite the opposite. The plot was tight and delivered endlessly, flowed beautifully. I never knew what was coming until it happened, so half the time I was gasping or speechless! I can't recommend this series enough, and not just to UF fans, it's a clever and ingenious mix of romance, action, suspense, intrigue and drama. I'm definitely checking out this authors other work and elated I found another series to add to my all time favorite pile! Read it! Loved this to bits!
December 11, 2012
Justine is trying to move on with her life after the horrible events that happened in the last book, Double Cross. She's going to nursing school and planning her wedding to Otto but things are not the same. Packard's on the run and she doesn't know where most of the other disillusionists are. On top of that, every time she thinks of Avery, she's blasted with horrible head pains.
After reading the last book, I could hardly wait to read this one. I just had to find out what happened!! I still can't believe that Otto did that and I could not wait to see what ~ if anything ~ would trigger Justine. And WOW...I LOVED what did trigger her!!
Justine before the trigger was someone I just wasn't sure about. The whole wedding seemed much more Otto's style than Justine's and I just wanted to shake her. But once things got triggered, I loved how Justine went after things. It made me laugh how she was rollerblading all over even in the snow!
I thought the first scene was great with Simon. I just love him...he is such a character but I really liked how he was being such a good friend to Justine...both him and Shelby.
Sooo...Otto's is a bit creepy in this one. Not that I ever cared for him, well, I guess I do like him a bit. He does take care of Justine...just in his own way. I thought it was great all the things he did with and for Justine's Dad. I just didn't really like how things ended with him.
I LOVED Packard. I loved how he snuck in and I loved how he totally believed in Justine. He was always in awe that she cared about him. I was happy that he has changed for the better.
The ending was a bit predictable...even though like I said, I wish that things had gone differently with Otto. The epilogue was sooo amazing and what a fantastic way to end the series. The best part? Gumby....hands UP!!!
Favorite quotes:
♥ “In some parts of the world, they don’t have a word for snow, because they don’t know what it is. I never had a word for this. Love’s too trite. It’s more than that—just more. And I can’t lose you again. But here we are. You’re going to him and promising to meet me. I can’t do this again.”
♥ “And I can’t believe we had sex and I don’t remember!”
“It was…” He’s concealing a smile, “…so hot.”
♥ “You never put Gumby in the happy mode before.”
“I know! But, I must have…after. I probably drove my car right after I saw you. And Gumby was happy that day. Happiest possible Gumby.”
He smiles. “Goddamn, I love you,” he says.
After reading the last book, I could hardly wait to read this one. I just had to find out what happened!! I still can't believe that Otto did that and I could not wait to see what ~ if anything ~ would trigger Justine. And WOW...I LOVED what did trigger her!!
Justine before the trigger was someone I just wasn't sure about. The whole wedding seemed much more Otto's style than Justine's and I just wanted to shake her. But once things got triggered, I loved how Justine went after things. It made me laugh how she was rollerblading all over even in the snow!
I thought the first scene was great with Simon. I just love him...he is such a character but I really liked how he was being such a good friend to Justine...both him and Shelby.
Sooo...Otto's is a bit creepy in this one. Not that I ever cared for him, well, I guess I do like him a bit. He does take care of Justine...just in his own way. I thought it was great all the things he did with and for Justine's Dad. I just didn't really like how things ended with him.
I LOVED Packard. I loved how he snuck in and I loved how he totally believed in Justine. He was always in awe that she cared about him. I was happy that he has changed for the better.
The ending was a bit predictable...even though like I said, I wish that things had gone differently with Otto. The epilogue was sooo amazing and what a fantastic way to end the series. The best part? Gumby....hands UP!!!
Favorite quotes:
♥ “In some parts of the world, they don’t have a word for snow, because they don’t know what it is. I never had a word for this. Love’s too trite. It’s more than that—just more. And I can’t lose you again. But here we are. You’re going to him and promising to meet me. I can’t do this again.”
♥ “And I can’t believe we had sex and I don’t remember!”
“It was…” He’s concealing a smile, “…so hot.”
♥ “You never put Gumby in the happy mode before.”
“I know! But, I must have…after. I probably drove my car right after I saw you. And Gumby was happy that day. Happiest possible Gumby.”
He smiles. “Goddamn, I love you,” he says.
February 2, 2013
"Do you want anymore cookies?" (Otto)
"No."
Hell no.
Favorite-shelved.
I dove right into this one after the last book's ending because I didn't want to end up killing my e-reader. As the conclusion to Carolyn Crane's acid trip of a series, Head Rush kind of blew my mind in the most unexpected manner. It got a bit... Normal.
I'll always have a soft spot for this series because its the weird, quirky, funny kid in the playground that tells crazy stories and expresses his emotions through clay.
That's how I express my joy too!
Compared to the kookiness of Mind Games and the intensity of Double Cross, Head Rush was almost as close to mainstream romance as it gets. Not to say it's less than the previous books (Otto's idea of impressing Justine's dad was just hilarious!) But there were scenes that make me question if I'm still in the same universe where Simon and Hello Kitty visigoth exists. Gut-wrenching scenes that felt like they belonged to a YA novel (no kidding) juxtaposed with scenes of Justine's dad wearing a hazmat suit in her wedding... i don't think I can find that anywhere else.
But where this triumphs best over its predecessors is the pacing. Everything read like a summer action flick but with more plot and less blaring surround soundtrack. I wanted to shank the next b*tch who dared to interrupt my reading time. It was that gripping and intense that I'm sure I overlooked a lot of plot holes but I couldn't care less.
"Nothing can replace coming to something on your own, to take a hard, important journey, to reach deep into yourself and trust your heart.”
"In some parts of the world, they don’t have a word for snow, because they don’t know what it is. I never had a word for this. Love’s too trite. It’s more than that—just more.”
“There are some people in life, Justine, when you put a mountain in front of them, they climb it, whereas others just pop a few aspirins and hope it goes away.”
"No."
Hell no.
Favorite-shelved.
I dove right into this one after the last book's ending because I didn't want to end up killing my e-reader. As the conclusion to Carolyn Crane's acid trip of a series, Head Rush kind of blew my mind in the most unexpected manner. It got a bit... Normal.
I'll always have a soft spot for this series because its the weird, quirky, funny kid in the playground that tells crazy stories and expresses his emotions through clay.
That's how I express my joy too!
Compared to the kookiness of Mind Games and the intensity of Double Cross, Head Rush was almost as close to mainstream romance as it gets. Not to say it's less than the previous books (Otto's idea of impressing Justine's dad was just hilarious!) But there were scenes that make me question if I'm still in the same universe where Simon and Hello Kitty visigoth exists. Gut-wrenching scenes that felt like they belonged to a YA novel (no kidding) juxtaposed with scenes of Justine's dad wearing a hazmat suit in her wedding... i don't think I can find that anywhere else.
But where this triumphs best over its predecessors is the pacing. Everything read like a summer action flick but with more plot and less blaring surround soundtrack. I wanted to shank the next b*tch who dared to interrupt my reading time. It was that gripping and intense that I'm sure I overlooked a lot of plot holes but I couldn't care less.
"Nothing can replace coming to something on your own, to take a hard, important journey, to reach deep into yourself and trust your heart.”
"In some parts of the world, they don’t have a word for snow, because they don’t know what it is. I never had a word for this. Love’s too trite. It’s more than that—just more.”
“There are some people in life, Justine, when you put a mountain in front of them, they climb it, whereas others just pop a few aspirins and hope it goes away.”
December 9, 2011
Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!! *****5 stars*****
"Packard and me in the back booth. The candlelight, the discoveries, the lies. The intensity of Packard's gaze, as though the emotions inside him burn too hot. The aliveness I felt."
It is so rare that a series ends in a way that makes the reader happy, as well as tying up any and all loose ends. This series closer delivers that and much, much more. First off, I want to say that Carolyn Crane is a very talented writer and I hope that she's already working on something new. Carolyn Crane took hypochondria and raised it to a new level. Throughout all three books, I felt Justine's pain, her fear, her embarrassment due to her hypochondria. It was palpable, and kudos to Carolyn Crane for writing these emotions so well.
As Head Rush opens, Justine and Otto are in the midst of planning their fast approaching wedding. Justine is still trying to find her car, which was mysteriously towed the day that "Packard" shot Avery. Fellow disillusionist and friend Simon is helping Justine find her car. If the car is found in working condition, then Simon gets to be a bridesmaid in Justine's wedding. Of course they find the car, with Otto close on their heels. Why, because the bastard with the beret is tracking Justine, that's why! After the car is found, we find out that Justine and Otto have been doing some kinky type of things, and can't seem to connect with one another when they aren't playing games.
But here's the problem. Every time Justine thinks about the night "Packard" shot Avery, she gets a severe pain in her head. She just chalks it up to her vein star hypochondria and continues wedding plans with Simon, Ez and Shelby, her fearless bridesmaids.
In walks Packard. He sneaks into Justine and Otto's condo and tries to explain himself one more time to Justine, who just isn't buying it.
"But when he smiles, there's this lightness to him, like when you crack a rock and a gem shines out. Now he just looks lost."
Packard has been in Midcity, trying to figure out a way to clear his name and win Justine back. He has several disillusionists secretly working for him. Thankfully, Otto's despicable lie is uncovered early on in this novel. It was so nice for the truth to come out early in this book, not at the end where the heroine FINALLY figures it all out and runs back into her former lover's arms. Soon enough, the disillusionist gang is back together, and Justine is able to see Otto for what he really is. Justine's feelings for Packard are back tenfold.
I'm shaking, I realize. Packard's the one who went at the man, but I feel as though it was my heart-exposed and vulnerable-my life that almost ended a minute ago."
There is so much Justine and Packard goodness, I could go on and on. Packard still loves Justine, and his love for her is the changing kind of love. He changes Justine on a very basic level and it's beautiful to watch unfold.
He goes still, watching me, with all his love and trust bared, it seems, and I stop my smiling and coaxing. Something real is here."
At the end, the disillusionists gang is able to stop Otto's plans, clear Packard and free the rest of the disillusionists who were missing. I'm not going to go into details, but I will say that this book is non-stop action, true to Carolyn Crane form.
"'You beat it,' he whispers. 'And I love you so goddamn much.'"
Packard, whom I've always had a soft spot for, has rocketed up my list of book boyfriends due to his actions in this book. I adore this rebel with his cinnamon hair and his kick-ass attitude.
"'And I can't believe we had sex and I don't remember!'
'It was....' He's concealing a smile, 'so hot.'"
Otto's fate is sealed, and I can't say that I feel any sympathy toward him. He loved Justine because he felt he needed her to calm his fears. It wasn't the kind of love that Justine and Packard share. The only redemption I see for Otto was what he revealed to Packard at the end. He relieved a heavy burden from Packard's 12-year-old shoulders, which was the best thing Otto did in this book. And the beret is still stupid.
And the Epilogue...ahhhh....I couldn't have asked for more. Thank you, Carolyn Crane for writing this. It was a beautiful ending!
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes action-packed, fast moving, creative UF. I am so sorry that this story will not continue. It really is a shame because I've grown to love these characters and this wonderful, dark world Carolyn Crane has created. I will be anxiously be awaiting her next project.
"Packard and me in the back booth. The candlelight, the discoveries, the lies. The intensity of Packard's gaze, as though the emotions inside him burn too hot. The aliveness I felt."
It is so rare that a series ends in a way that makes the reader happy, as well as tying up any and all loose ends. This series closer delivers that and much, much more. First off, I want to say that Carolyn Crane is a very talented writer and I hope that she's already working on something new. Carolyn Crane took hypochondria and raised it to a new level. Throughout all three books, I felt Justine's pain, her fear, her embarrassment due to her hypochondria. It was palpable, and kudos to Carolyn Crane for writing these emotions so well.
As Head Rush opens, Justine and Otto are in the midst of planning their fast approaching wedding. Justine is still trying to find her car, which was mysteriously towed the day that "Packard" shot Avery. Fellow disillusionist and friend Simon is helping Justine find her car. If the car is found in working condition, then Simon gets to be a bridesmaid in Justine's wedding. Of course they find the car, with Otto close on their heels. Why, because the bastard with the beret is tracking Justine, that's why! After the car is found, we find out that Justine and Otto have been doing some kinky type of things, and can't seem to connect with one another when they aren't playing games.
But here's the problem. Every time Justine thinks about the night "Packard" shot Avery, she gets a severe pain in her head. She just chalks it up to her vein star hypochondria and continues wedding plans with Simon, Ez and Shelby, her fearless bridesmaids.
In walks Packard. He sneaks into Justine and Otto's condo and tries to explain himself one more time to Justine, who just isn't buying it.
"But when he smiles, there's this lightness to him, like when you crack a rock and a gem shines out. Now he just looks lost."
Packard has been in Midcity, trying to figure out a way to clear his name and win Justine back. He has several disillusionists secretly working for him. Thankfully, Otto's despicable lie is uncovered early on in this novel. It was so nice for the truth to come out early in this book, not at the end where the heroine FINALLY figures it all out and runs back into her former lover's arms. Soon enough, the disillusionist gang is back together, and Justine is able to see Otto for what he really is. Justine's feelings for Packard are back tenfold.
I'm shaking, I realize. Packard's the one who went at the man, but I feel as though it was my heart-exposed and vulnerable-my life that almost ended a minute ago."
There is so much Justine and Packard goodness, I could go on and on. Packard still loves Justine, and his love for her is the changing kind of love. He changes Justine on a very basic level and it's beautiful to watch unfold.
He goes still, watching me, with all his love and trust bared, it seems, and I stop my smiling and coaxing. Something real is here."
At the end, the disillusionists gang is able to stop Otto's plans, clear Packard and free the rest of the disillusionists who were missing. I'm not going to go into details, but I will say that this book is non-stop action, true to Carolyn Crane form.
"'You beat it,' he whispers. 'And I love you so goddamn much.'"
Packard, whom I've always had a soft spot for, has rocketed up my list of book boyfriends due to his actions in this book. I adore this rebel with his cinnamon hair and his kick-ass attitude.
"'And I can't believe we had sex and I don't remember!'
'It was....' He's concealing a smile, 'so hot.'"
Otto's fate is sealed, and I can't say that I feel any sympathy toward him. He loved Justine because he felt he needed her to calm his fears. It wasn't the kind of love that Justine and Packard share. The only redemption I see for Otto was what he revealed to Packard at the end. He relieved a heavy burden from Packard's 12-year-old shoulders, which was the best thing Otto did in this book. And the beret is still stupid.
And the Epilogue...ahhhh....I couldn't have asked for more. Thank you, Carolyn Crane for writing this. It was a beautiful ending!
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes action-packed, fast moving, creative UF. I am so sorry that this story will not continue. It really is a shame because I've grown to love these characters and this wonderful, dark world Carolyn Crane has created. I will be anxiously be awaiting her next project.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2015
Buddy read with
Buddies Books and Baubles
.
Please be aware that although this review will be spoiler free for Head Rush it will contain spoilers for previous books so please don't carry on reading if you're not up to date with the series.
After the horrendous cliffhanger at the end of Double Cross I was incredibly relieved that I didn't have to wait a year for the release of Head Rush and I was able to dive straight into the story to find out what happens next. I just couldn't believe it, after all that time I've spent waiting for Justine to realise that Packard was the one and then Otto goes and has her memory wiped! How could he do that? The complete and utter bastard! I'll admit I was a bit scared when I picked up this book, I really worried that we'd have another whole book of Justine fighting her feelings for Packard and waxing on about how wonderful Otto is. Luckily that isn't quite what happens but you're just going to have to read it for yourself to find out what we get instead.
I've had a bit of a rocky relationship with Justine throughout the series, at first I found her hypochondria quite endearing and I definitely love that she's such a unique character but eventually her inner monologue started to get on my nerves and I spent a fair chunk of both the first two books wanting to shake some sense into her. Luckily she started to improve a lot at the end of Double Cross and I actually found myself liking her all the way through this story. After brutally murdering Avery Otto had Justine's memory revised so that she now believes she watched Packard commit the crime, but even though she saw it with her own two eyes her heart struggles to accept that version of events. Deep down she is certain that Packard could never do something like that and it's left her incredibly confused. Otto has used Justine's vulnerability to talk her into marrying him and with the wedding fast approaching she is going to have to look deep inside herself and try to decide what she really wants from life.
It was really interesting to see the effects the revision had on Justine, she seemed much more vulnerable in this instalment but at the same time she finds an inner strength I wasn't sure she actually had. When she sets her mind to find out the truth she really comes into her own and I found it very easy to root for her. Of course I've loved Packard from the beginning, even when he was being a manipulative bastard, so I was pleased by how much time we got to spend with him in this book. There were some fantastic scenes with him that definitely made me love him more than ever. Shelby is still recovering from a broken heart but I love the friendship between her and Justine. Shelby is always a voice of reason who will tell Justine exactly what she needs to hear and she is always there for her friend which is wonderful to see. Simon has made me laugh throughout the whole series but he outdid himself here, I'm just going to tell you to watch out for the scene when they're shopping for bridesmaid dresses because it was absolutely hilarious!
Overall I thought Head Rush was a great conclusion to the trilogy but I was a little disappointed that a couple of plot threads were left open. A few things were slightly rushed towards the end and I think adding a couple more chapters could have tied it all together perfectly. Either way this is a trilogy I'd be happy to recommend, it's like nothing else I've read and the idea of the Disillusionists is completely unique. I'll definitely be looking out for more from this author in the future and I'd be thrilled if she decided to revisit these characters again in the future.
Please be aware that although this review will be spoiler free for Head Rush it will contain spoilers for previous books so please don't carry on reading if you're not up to date with the series.
After the horrendous cliffhanger at the end of Double Cross I was incredibly relieved that I didn't have to wait a year for the release of Head Rush and I was able to dive straight into the story to find out what happens next. I just couldn't believe it, after all that time I've spent waiting for Justine to realise that Packard was the one and then Otto goes and has her memory wiped! How could he do that? The complete and utter bastard! I'll admit I was a bit scared when I picked up this book, I really worried that we'd have another whole book of Justine fighting her feelings for Packard and waxing on about how wonderful Otto is. Luckily that isn't quite what happens but you're just going to have to read it for yourself to find out what we get instead.
I've had a bit of a rocky relationship with Justine throughout the series, at first I found her hypochondria quite endearing and I definitely love that she's such a unique character but eventually her inner monologue started to get on my nerves and I spent a fair chunk of both the first two books wanting to shake some sense into her. Luckily she started to improve a lot at the end of Double Cross and I actually found myself liking her all the way through this story. After brutally murdering Avery Otto had Justine's memory revised so that she now believes she watched Packard commit the crime, but even though she saw it with her own two eyes her heart struggles to accept that version of events. Deep down she is certain that Packard could never do something like that and it's left her incredibly confused. Otto has used Justine's vulnerability to talk her into marrying him and with the wedding fast approaching she is going to have to look deep inside herself and try to decide what she really wants from life.
It was really interesting to see the effects the revision had on Justine, she seemed much more vulnerable in this instalment but at the same time she finds an inner strength I wasn't sure she actually had. When she sets her mind to find out the truth she really comes into her own and I found it very easy to root for her. Of course I've loved Packard from the beginning, even when he was being a manipulative bastard, so I was pleased by how much time we got to spend with him in this book. There were some fantastic scenes with him that definitely made me love him more than ever. Shelby is still recovering from a broken heart but I love the friendship between her and Justine. Shelby is always a voice of reason who will tell Justine exactly what she needs to hear and she is always there for her friend which is wonderful to see. Simon has made me laugh throughout the whole series but he outdid himself here, I'm just going to tell you to watch out for the scene when they're shopping for bridesmaid dresses because it was absolutely hilarious!
Overall I thought Head Rush was a great conclusion to the trilogy but I was a little disappointed that a couple of plot threads were left open. A few things were slightly rushed towards the end and I think adding a couple more chapters could have tied it all together perfectly. Either way this is a trilogy I'd be happy to recommend, it's like nothing else I've read and the idea of the Disillusionists is completely unique. I'll definitely be looking out for more from this author in the future and I'd be thrilled if she decided to revisit these characters again in the future.
February 16, 2012
4.5 Stars
Carolyn Crane really put me through the wringer with her Disillusionists trilogy... ripping the rug out of from under me over and over again. But here, in this conclusion, she gave me everything I wanted, leaving me warm & fuzzy, satisfied, and a little wistful now that it's all said and done.
As the story begins, Justine is going forward with her plans to marry Otto, convinced Packard killed Avery and went on the run. Of course, the readers know the truth. And it's great stuff as Justine comes to understand what really happened. Once everything is out in the open, she knows where her true future lies. But it's not like she can just leave Otto. He has become too powerful and he has quietly imprisoned too many of her friends. So the book is essentially about how she can get free of him and save the people she loves so she can find true happiness with Packard.
This book doesn't have the same kinds of twists and turns as the other two. It's pretty straightforward. Which does NOT mean it's slow or boring. There is plenty of action and some very gratifying interaction between Justine and Packard. Theirs is a love story that has been a long time coming. But perhaps, what is just as satisfying is seeing the evolution of Justine as an individual. Her neurosis made her very difficult to relate to in the beginning of the series, but she has come so far. I'm so proud of her.
And I would be remiss if I don't give a shoutout to Simon and Shelby, two great supporting characters. Honestly, Shelby has some of the very best lines in the book, as far as I'm concerned. --And Gumby. Let's not forget Gumby.
It didn't have the same shocking and dizzying qualities of the previous books, but it scored high points for hitting my emotional happy ending buttons. Very good.
Carolyn Crane really put me through the wringer with her Disillusionists trilogy... ripping the rug out of from under me over and over again. But here, in this conclusion, she gave me everything I wanted, leaving me warm & fuzzy, satisfied, and a little wistful now that it's all said and done.
As the story begins, Justine is going forward with her plans to marry Otto, convinced Packard killed Avery and went on the run. Of course, the readers know the truth. And it's great stuff as Justine comes to understand what really happened. Once everything is out in the open, she knows where her true future lies. But it's not like she can just leave Otto. He has become too powerful and he has quietly imprisoned too many of her friends. So the book is essentially about how she can get free of him and save the people she loves so she can find true happiness with Packard.
This book doesn't have the same kinds of twists and turns as the other two. It's pretty straightforward. Which does NOT mean it's slow or boring. There is plenty of action and some very gratifying interaction between Justine and Packard. Theirs is a love story that has been a long time coming. But perhaps, what is just as satisfying is seeing the evolution of Justine as an individual. Her neurosis made her very difficult to relate to in the beginning of the series, but she has come so far. I'm so proud of her.
And I would be remiss if I don't give a shoutout to Simon and Shelby, two great supporting characters. Honestly, Shelby has some of the very best lines in the book, as far as I'm concerned. --And Gumby. Let's not forget Gumby.
It didn't have the same shocking and dizzying qualities of the previous books, but it scored high points for hitting my emotional happy ending buttons. Very good.
December 4, 2016
Now I remember the question that haunted me throughout the 1st and 2nd books: How come Justine can zing but is no highcap?
Q:
I could see a truly desperate highcap coming forward for more money, but it would have to be a lot more. Hell, I’m just an overwrought human with the power to zing, and I wouldn’t want the Pentagon knowing about that. But if I were a highcap? You couldn’t pay me enough to get tested. Because what happens when the powers turn out to be real? What would the scientists want next? Where would you hide?
(c)
Q:
And with that we’re there for another ten minutes, and of course Dad wants to give Otto a demo, and Otto is happy to have his clothes, skin, and hair misted with antibacterial vapors.
And then it hits me: I’m engaged to marry my father.
My father goes to crazy extremes to defend against tinygerms and organisms, and Otto goes to crazy extremes to guard against larger threats—antihighcap glasses, criminals, sleepwalking zombies, my own free will. Hell, he’s even fighting the currents of fate as predicted by Fawna, and apparently, he has more battles in mind.
(c)
Q:
“This will all work out,” I tell them. It feels good to say it and mean it. It’s strange, this new sense of trust I have. I could never reach down and feel certain about important things like this before.
Now there’s no question of anything.
(c)
Q:
ou yourself changed, Justine. When the one who is to have the destiny changes in a profound way, the psychophysics of that person’s fate is forever changed. You transformed so much, so essentially, that the fate no longer applied. You are no longer that one
(c)
Q:
... even though there’s nothing virginal about our union. We have spent a gloriously unvirginal spring, followed by a totally unvirginal summer, together in our fabulous apartment we picked out.
(c)
Q:
I could see a truly desperate highcap coming forward for more money, but it would have to be a lot more. Hell, I’m just an overwrought human with the power to zing, and I wouldn’t want the Pentagon knowing about that. But if I were a highcap? You couldn’t pay me enough to get tested. Because what happens when the powers turn out to be real? What would the scientists want next? Where would you hide?
(c)
Q:
And with that we’re there for another ten minutes, and of course Dad wants to give Otto a demo, and Otto is happy to have his clothes, skin, and hair misted with antibacterial vapors.
And then it hits me: I’m engaged to marry my father.
My father goes to crazy extremes to defend against tinygerms and organisms, and Otto goes to crazy extremes to guard against larger threats—antihighcap glasses, criminals, sleepwalking zombies, my own free will. Hell, he’s even fighting the currents of fate as predicted by Fawna, and apparently, he has more battles in mind.
(c)
Q:
“This will all work out,” I tell them. It feels good to say it and mean it. It’s strange, this new sense of trust I have. I could never reach down and feel certain about important things like this before.
Now there’s no question of anything.
(c)
Q:
ou yourself changed, Justine. When the one who is to have the destiny changes in a profound way, the psychophysics of that person’s fate is forever changed. You transformed so much, so essentially, that the fate no longer applied. You are no longer that one
(c)
Q:
... even though there’s nothing virginal about our union. We have spent a gloriously unvirginal spring, followed by a totally unvirginal summer, together in our fabulous apartment we picked out.
(c)
December 18, 2011
I apologize to the 1 random person who may actually have read it. (It was quite eloquent and profanity free)
I'll summarize for that 1 random person's benefit in modern layman's terms:
--This book should have been kick-ass like the first two, but it was not
--Justine's a self-rightous bitch who whines too much (Not sure why two guys love her other than that she's *cough, cough* easy..)
--Packard and Justine's romance is melodramatic and disgusted-snort-worthy
--Otto deserved better from the author (I'd play naughy cop with you any day, Otto--screw Cinnamon Lips)
--It sucks when the reader knows crucial information that the protagonist doesn't know and we are forced to read as she bumbles along idiotically for most of the novel trying to discover something we already do
--It sucks when the author has the protagonist consult someone about the future and we know precisely how the final showdown is going to turn out because obviously the protagonist is not going to die because we already read that there is an epilogue in the table of contents and last time I checked there can be no epilogue without a protagonist (<>)
That's about it---oooh and I solved the riddle, "When is good not good?"
My answer: When bad is needed to do good!!! Humphh. Take that and shove it, Justine. Your answer sucked.
December 7, 2011
Previously Published on my blog: Welcome to Larissa's Bookish Life
*NO Spoilers.
After the heart crushing ending of Double Cross and the real life will-they-won’t-they-publish-it drama, me and everyone else who is a fan of this series, have been in a tizzy waiting for the conclusion of this great trilogy.
Carolyn Crane has created such an innovative concept within the disillusionists trilogy, not to mention such unique and fascinating characters that you can't help but being completely drawn in and becoming obsessed with them all.
I really don't wanna spoil anything, but I have a very strong feeling that Head Rush will make all of those, including me, that were screaming in frustration and hatred by the end of Double Cross, sigh in relief, smile and get ready to bow own to Carolyn for being such an awesome author.
After such a wild and unforgettable ride that this series has been, Carolyn is definitely an auto-buy author for me and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
*NO Spoilers.
After the heart crushing ending of Double Cross and the real life will-they-won’t-they-publish-it drama, me and everyone else who is a fan of this series, have been in a tizzy waiting for the conclusion of this great trilogy.
Carolyn Crane has created such an innovative concept within the disillusionists trilogy, not to mention such unique and fascinating characters that you can't help but being completely drawn in and becoming obsessed with them all.
I really don't wanna spoil anything, but I have a very strong feeling that Head Rush will make all of those, including me, that were screaming in frustration and hatred by the end of Double Cross, sigh in relief, smile and get ready to bow own to Carolyn for being such an awesome author.
After such a wild and unforgettable ride that this series has been, Carolyn is definitely an auto-buy author for me and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
October 8, 2015
Satisfying conclusion to the series. I'm very happy how it finished for the characters on a personal level. Plot though felt a bit weaker compared to the other books, less twists. Perhaps because the focus was on MC facing her own demons and sorting out her personal life. The beginning dragged a bit - one thing is to stumble in the darkness with the character uncovering truth together, quite another is to follow her making mistakes and drawing wrong conclusions knowing quite well that she is being mislead and lied to. Anyhow second part is much better and we have some really nice action-suspense moments roller-blading through a snowy night and facing the dangers of Tangle.
Recommended for readers who enjoyed the previous two books.
Recommended for readers who enjoyed the previous two books.
October 29, 2011
Grade: A+ or 5 Stars
Happy Gumby has his right hand in the air and bent for a fist pump! What an incredibly satisfying conclusion to the Disillusionists trilogy!. I absolutely loved it. For those waiting for the ebook you are in for a treat.
This is my first audiobook. It was so worth the money. I enjoyed the narrator's voice. *rises for standing ovation*
Now, I need to work on a spoiler-free review.
Happy Gumby has his right hand in the air and bent for a fist pump! What an incredibly satisfying conclusion to the Disillusionists trilogy!. I absolutely loved it. For those waiting for the ebook you are in for a treat.
This is my first audiobook. It was so worth the money. I enjoyed the narrator's voice. *rises for standing ovation*
Now, I need to work on a spoiler-free review.
July 16, 2017
I really tried but I didn't and couldn't get into this series mainly because I HATED the heroine with a passion. When you hate the narrator or protagonist of a book, there is really no loving it. The heroine was hateful, selfish, stupid & TSTL.
December 24, 2011
***This review contains spoilers for those who haven't read book two in this series.***
"The power of fear trumps everything. This is one of the few things I know for sure."
After reading book two in this series I found myself unable to write a review. I couldn't........I just couldn't. The ending of that book was a doozy of a cliffhanger and I am SO glad that I picked this series up when all three books were out already. The ending of Double Cross left me thinking
I couldn't even go to sleep! I had to begin reading the next book immediately.
And so I began Mind Games, the final book in this amazing trilogy. Carolyn Crane is a talented writer that really knows how to keep your head spinning. The surprises and twists keep coming, the love scenes are hot hot hot, and the first person point of view never gets annoying. Mind Games picks up about two months after the ridiculous events at the end of Double Cross, with Justine happily preparing for her wedding. She feels some minute sense of something being 'off', but continually chalks it up to being a nervous bride and still trying to get over what she witnessed. Her disillusionist friends go along with the wedding plans, but its obvious something is going on with them as well. Packard is now public enemy number one, on the run from Otto.
I really thought I was going to lose my mind reading all the cutesy scenes. I wanted the wrongs of book two righted immediately! But Crane makes us wait, showing us all the while just how powerful Otto is. At the same time that all this is going on, serial killers and sleepwalking cannibals are running amok in Midcity. Otto has created a city-wide curfew to keep citizens safe at night - and to flush out that pesky Packard. Oh Packard. What a wonderfully flawed hero. He is completely amazing in a totally messed up way. He is a master of words and actions, that's for sure.
"In some parts of the world they don't have a word for snow, because they don't know what it is. I never had a word for this. Love's too trite. It's more than that - just more".
And the ending...........NO I am not going to tell you how it all ends! Where is the fun in that? I will say that it felt just a little bit rushed. After everything that had happened I wanted the conclusion to stretch out just a little bit longer. Crane does wrap the story up nicely, leaving me feeling satisfied after the ride this series took me on. Justine has gone through so much, and she comes out on the other end stronger. I'm so sad that this series is over, but excited to see what wonderful new stories Crane has for us next!
"I used to say happiness was the absence of something - the absence of darkness, hate, fear. Especially fear. I thought, if I could get rid of my fear, life would be great...I see that I was wrong. Happiness isn't about getting rid of my fear. Happiness is when something outshines my fear."
Read more of my reviews at goldiloxandthethreeweres.blogspot.com
"The power of fear trumps everything. This is one of the few things I know for sure."
After reading book two in this series I found myself unable to write a review. I couldn't........I just couldn't. The ending of that book was a doozy of a cliffhanger and I am SO glad that I picked this series up when all three books were out already. The ending of Double Cross left me thinking
I couldn't even go to sleep! I had to begin reading the next book immediately.
And so I began Mind Games, the final book in this amazing trilogy. Carolyn Crane is a talented writer that really knows how to keep your head spinning. The surprises and twists keep coming, the love scenes are hot hot hot, and the first person point of view never gets annoying. Mind Games picks up about two months after the ridiculous events at the end of Double Cross, with Justine happily preparing for her wedding. She feels some minute sense of something being 'off', but continually chalks it up to being a nervous bride and still trying to get over what she witnessed. Her disillusionist friends go along with the wedding plans, but its obvious something is going on with them as well. Packard is now public enemy number one, on the run from Otto.
I really thought I was going to lose my mind reading all the cutesy scenes. I wanted the wrongs of book two righted immediately! But Crane makes us wait, showing us all the while just how powerful Otto is. At the same time that all this is going on, serial killers and sleepwalking cannibals are running amok in Midcity. Otto has created a city-wide curfew to keep citizens safe at night - and to flush out that pesky Packard. Oh Packard. What a wonderfully flawed hero. He is completely amazing in a totally messed up way. He is a master of words and actions, that's for sure.
"In some parts of the world they don't have a word for snow, because they don't know what it is. I never had a word for this. Love's too trite. It's more than that - just more".
And the ending...........NO I am not going to tell you how it all ends! Where is the fun in that? I will say that it felt just a little bit rushed. After everything that had happened I wanted the conclusion to stretch out just a little bit longer. Crane does wrap the story up nicely, leaving me feeling satisfied after the ride this series took me on. Justine has gone through so much, and she comes out on the other end stronger. I'm so sad that this series is over, but excited to see what wonderful new stories Crane has for us next!
"I used to say happiness was the absence of something - the absence of darkness, hate, fear. Especially fear. I thought, if I could get rid of my fear, life would be great...I see that I was wrong. Happiness isn't about getting rid of my fear. Happiness is when something outshines my fear."
Read more of my reviews at goldiloxandthethreeweres.blogspot.com
March 18, 2016
Head Rush
3 Stars
Continuing where Double Cross left off, Justine Jones is preparing for her wedding to Mayor Otto Sanchez and trying to ignore the feelings and clues that something is dreadfully wrong. Her friends and her fiancé appear to be keeping secrets and the city is under martial law due to rampaging sleepwalking cannibals and a rash of crimes that are eerily reminiscent of previous High Cap attacks. Adding to all this is Packard, now a fugitive wanted for murder, who insists that he is innocent despite Justine’s memories. Not knowing who to trust, least of all herself, can Justine unravel the mystery before it is too late?
Although the ending is ultimately satisfying, the journey toward the resolution is rather tedious and predictable.
Unlike the previous installments in which the Disillusionists and their activities are front and center, this book focuses on the mystery of Avery’s death. Unfortunately, as the reader is well aware of the guilty party, Justine’s bumbling about until the stumbles across the truth is both boring and annoying.
The romantic aspects are also problematic as Justine’s intimate moments with Otto are exceedingly icky given what we know about him. Thankfully, Justine comes to her senses sooner rather than later and her romance with Packard kicks into gear, which manages to compensate for the slimy Otto to a certain extent. Speaking of Packard, one cannot help feeling for the poor man - .
The second half of the book and the ending are better and Otto thankfully gets his just desserts. I would have been exceedingly irritated if he
All in all, a fun series although books #1 and #2 are better than #3.
3 Stars
Continuing where Double Cross left off, Justine Jones is preparing for her wedding to Mayor Otto Sanchez and trying to ignore the feelings and clues that something is dreadfully wrong. Her friends and her fiancé appear to be keeping secrets and the city is under martial law due to rampaging sleepwalking cannibals and a rash of crimes that are eerily reminiscent of previous High Cap attacks. Adding to all this is Packard, now a fugitive wanted for murder, who insists that he is innocent despite Justine’s memories. Not knowing who to trust, least of all herself, can Justine unravel the mystery before it is too late?
Although the ending is ultimately satisfying, the journey toward the resolution is rather tedious and predictable.
Unlike the previous installments in which the Disillusionists and their activities are front and center, this book focuses on the mystery of Avery’s death. Unfortunately, as the reader is well aware of the guilty party, Justine’s bumbling about until the stumbles across the truth is both boring and annoying.
The romantic aspects are also problematic as Justine’s intimate moments with Otto are exceedingly icky given what we know about him. Thankfully, Justine comes to her senses sooner rather than later and her romance with Packard kicks into gear, which manages to compensate for the slimy Otto to a certain extent. Speaking of Packard, one cannot help feeling for the poor man - .
The second half of the book and the ending are better and Otto thankfully gets his just desserts. I would have been exceedingly irritated if he
All in all, a fun series although books #1 and #2 are better than #3.
December 8, 2011
I've been waiting so patiently for Head Rush since finishing Double Cross. The wait was definitely worth it. I won't indulge on the details of the story without giving things away but I will say that I will never think of Gumby as a meaningless little soft clay creature again!
Also, this is one of my favorite UF series! I'm in awe of the creativity & uniqueness of the world that Carolyn Crane has envisioned. I highly recommend this trilogy to anyone looking for a UF that is different & refreshing. And I hope there will be many books by this author in the future!
Also, this is one of my favorite UF series! I'm in awe of the creativity & uniqueness of the world that Carolyn Crane has envisioned. I highly recommend this trilogy to anyone looking for a UF that is different & refreshing. And I hope there will be many books by this author in the future!
August 10, 2015
Buddy read. RTC.
July 16, 2014
4 stars
I've decided I'm not going to write an extensive review for this. I've said most in the reviews of the previous books. I will just say...
I loved Packard.
I think Justine has developed a lot throughout the series.
I loved the ending.
This book is my favorite of the series.
I don't know if it's the writing or the theme, but this book isn't one of my favorites, but I enjoyed reading about Justine very much. I'm looking forward to more books by Carolyn Crane.
And finally some quotes...
"I want to hug him and hit him all at once."
"You’re bigger than your fear, stronger than your fear, and you can outshine it with what you have inside you."
"It changes something in me, his trust, his gaze, so bare and brave. It scares me a little, and I do something I’ve never done before: I let it scare me. Fear, suddenly, is not the biggest thing."
"I used to say happiness was the absence of something—the absence of darkness, hate, fear. Especially fear. I thought, if I could get rid of my fear, life would be great.
But now, standing at the threshold of the church, my arm hooked in Dad’s, the rhythmic hum of his respirator faintly audible over the pipe organ, I see that I was wrong. Happiness isn’t about getting rid of my fear. Happiness is when something outshines my fear."
I've decided I'm not going to write an extensive review for this. I've said most in the reviews of the previous books. I will just say...
I loved Packard.
I think Justine has developed a lot throughout the series.
I loved the ending.
This book is my favorite of the series.
I don't know if it's the writing or the theme, but this book isn't one of my favorites, but I enjoyed reading about Justine very much. I'm looking forward to more books by Carolyn Crane.
And finally some quotes...
"I want to hug him and hit him all at once."
"You’re bigger than your fear, stronger than your fear, and you can outshine it with what you have inside you."
"It changes something in me, his trust, his gaze, so bare and brave. It scares me a little, and I do something I’ve never done before: I let it scare me. Fear, suddenly, is not the biggest thing."
"I used to say happiness was the absence of something—the absence of darkness, hate, fear. Especially fear. I thought, if I could get rid of my fear, life would be great.
But now, standing at the threshold of the church, my arm hooked in Dad’s, the rhythmic hum of his respirator faintly audible over the pipe organ, I see that I was wrong. Happiness isn’t about getting rid of my fear. Happiness is when something outshines my fear."
November 21, 2011
Full Review NOW up on http://paperbackdolls.com/?p=8357 PLUS a giveaway of audio version of HEAD RUSH.
This long awaited conclusion brings a very satisfying ending to a helluva cliffhanger. The only drawback is the limited availability of the book. Due to a switch in publisher and other circumstances, the book was released to audio first and will be followed by e-book then print a few weeks after. Now, for audio lovers (like myself) that's not too big of a problem, however for several fans who won't listen to books...it is. I found the narrator to be very talented. She did a great job with characters and even though her voice wasn't at all how I imagined Justine's to be I could overlook it after a few chapters. Minor issues aside, the story is wonderful and worth the wait!
Full Review coming soon to PaperbackDolls.com
This long awaited conclusion brings a very satisfying ending to a helluva cliffhanger. The only drawback is the limited availability of the book. Due to a switch in publisher and other circumstances, the book was released to audio first and will be followed by e-book then print a few weeks after. Now, for audio lovers (like myself) that's not too big of a problem, however for several fans who won't listen to books...it is. I found the narrator to be very talented. She did a great job with characters and even though her voice wasn't at all how I imagined Justine's to be I could overlook it after a few chapters. Minor issues aside, the story is wonderful and worth the wait!
Full Review coming soon to PaperbackDolls.com
December 12, 2012
Wow!!
I'm a Carolyn Crane fan from this day forward. I just need to come up with a better more creative way to review such an amazingly woven book filled with hilarious laugh out laud moments, cannibals, a dad in a hazmat suit, grumpy, and sweet romance...
I'm a Carolyn Crane fan from this day forward. I just need to come up with a better more creative way to review such an amazingly woven book filled with hilarious laugh out laud moments, cannibals, a dad in a hazmat suit, grumpy, and sweet romance...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 375 reviews