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Academy of the Fallen #1
Wide Awake
Kayla is a 16-year-old girl who was adopted when she was little. She lives a normal life, with great friends, loving adoptive parents, and well... a not-so-great boyfriend. But the reason why she was given up for adoption was far from any usual reason. She was meant to be kept away from the Academy and anything else related to the supernatural beings that could hurt her. Unfortunately for Kayla, it was only a matter of time before she encountered the creatures from the Otherworld, and there is just no running away from the beings that she can now see. In trying to protect Kayla by keeping her away from the Academy, she may have just been put in even more danger.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2011
174 people are currently reading
4018 people want to read
About the author
Daniele Lanzarotta
44 books400 followersDaniele Lanzarotta is the author of young adult and new adult paranormal/fantasy/contemporary novels, including the Imprinted Souls Series, Academy of the Fallen Series, Sudden Hope, and A Mermaid's Curse Trilogy.
Daniele is also a filmmaker. She has recently worked on Virginia based short films as the 2nd Assistant Director and Still Photographer. Daniele is currently working on the development stage for the adaptation of her novel, Sudden Hope, which she also plans to film in VA.
She enjoys watching hockey, playing Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and the family dog.
Check out more information about Daniele and her novels at:
http://www.danilanzarotta.com
http://facebook.com/danilanzarotta
Daniele is also a filmmaker. She has recently worked on Virginia based short films as the 2nd Assistant Director and Still Photographer. Daniele is currently working on the development stage for the adaptation of her novel, Sudden Hope, which she also plans to film in VA.
She enjoys watching hockey, playing Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and the family dog.
Check out more information about Daniele and her novels at:
http://www.danilanzarotta.com
http://facebook.com/danilanzarotta
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
July 5, 2011
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This book frustrated me. A lot. I felt like the whole idea behind it was good. I love books about fallen angels and all that, but the terrible writing in this book kept me from enjoying it like I should have. The language felt stiff and not at all natural and I had to force myself to keep reading instead of stopping out of frustration. I'm interested in what will happen with Kayla and Hunter in the next book, but I don't know if I can handle Lanzarotta's writing for a whole other book. Sad face.
This book frustrated me. A lot. I felt like the whole idea behind it was good. I love books about fallen angels and all that, but the terrible writing in this book kept me from enjoying it like I should have. The language felt stiff and not at all natural and I had to force myself to keep reading instead of stopping out of frustration. I'm interested in what will happen with Kayla and Hunter in the next book, but I don't know if I can handle Lanzarotta's writing for a whole other book. Sad face.
October 19, 2011
I started reading this book about 4 hours ago and believe it or not i just finished it.. in only one day!
The story is simple Kayla is a 16 years old adobted teenager with a normal school life three BFFs Jess,Emily and Ashley who are not really her best friends and a boyfriend called Justin (who is a total jerk if you ask me) But things are going to be a bit tricky since our lovely Kayla started to see a bizzard girl which is happens to be a ghost... And at the same time that Kayla trying to found out why another ghost a guy called Benjamin comes as well to the story..
some one is missing?sure it does : Kayla would need some help and the help comes to the name of Hunter a 17 years old teenager who is a bit loner but he seems to know lots of things about that...
Well the story was interesting even that you might feel bored because the 2/4 of the book is going on who is that little girl ghost (called Carolyn) is who is Benjamin how comes Hunter comes and go and the same time but near the end alot of stuff are revealing for the Angels the fallens the hunted the Nephelims the Otherworld and sort of that... It gets a bit tricky indeed! But you will handle it!
The book overall at least to me it was interesting.It might not had the academic english use of words but it was enjoyable and very fast paced. There were things that it really felt me jumpy and freaked out (like what happens if you open the closet and you suddendly you see a freakin ghost over there) and there was other when you will def laugh (like the scene in the history class when Benjamin waves for some reason it remind me that vampire guy from ''vampire sucks'' lol) and ofcource the romance between Kayla and Hunter which is indeed in a level stage by stage but still... they paused it when a parent enter the room (and you will screaming huge ''WHAT THE HELL WHY??)
Oh did i tell you that the book ended with a cliff which is totally annoying in some spesific point?You will see what i mean!
Some extras For some i always imagine Carolyn to be the extract imagine of Natalie a ghost/fade character from a tv show called '' The Fades''
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The story is simple Kayla is a 16 years old adobted teenager with a normal school life three BFFs Jess,Emily and Ashley who are not really her best friends and a boyfriend called Justin (who is a total jerk if you ask me) But things are going to be a bit tricky since our lovely Kayla started to see a bizzard girl which is happens to be a ghost... And at the same time that Kayla trying to found out why another ghost a guy called Benjamin comes as well to the story..
some one is missing?sure it does : Kayla would need some help and the help comes to the name of Hunter a 17 years old teenager who is a bit loner but he seems to know lots of things about that...
Well the story was interesting even that you might feel bored because the 2/4 of the book is going on who is that little girl ghost (called Carolyn) is who is Benjamin how comes Hunter comes and go and the same time but near the end alot of stuff are revealing for the Angels the fallens the hunted the Nephelims the Otherworld and sort of that... It gets a bit tricky indeed! But you will handle it!
The book overall at least to me it was interesting.It might not had the academic english use of words but it was enjoyable and very fast paced. There were things that it really felt me jumpy and freaked out (like what happens if you open the closet and you suddendly you see a freakin ghost over there) and there was other when you will def laugh (like the scene in the history class when Benjamin waves for some reason it remind me that vampire guy from ''vampire sucks'' lol) and ofcource the romance between Kayla and Hunter which is indeed in a level stage by stage but still... they paused it when a parent enter the room (and you will screaming huge ''WHAT THE HELL WHY??)
Oh did i tell you that the book ended with a cliff which is totally annoying in some spesific point?You will see what i mean!
Some extras For some i always imagine Carolyn to be the extract imagine of Natalie a ghost/fade character from a tv show called '' The Fades''
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August 10, 2011
When I finally did stop crying, he slowly pulled me away, and I’m not even sure what led us to this but he got even closer, his lips had barely touched mine. “I shouldn’t,” he said under his breath. I didn’t care. He made no effort to move… our lips still barely touching; I leaned closer and kissed him.
Before I start this review, I just want to say WOW, isn’t that cover lovely? This is what initially attracted me to the book. I love the cover! And as you all know, a great cover doesn’t make a great book but this is the case, Wide Awake……is a GREAT book!
Kayla is a normal 16 year old girl who was adopted at a young age. She goes to school, has a crappy boyfriend and has a group of close friends. When Kayla starts seeing a teenage girl called Carolyn, she doesn’t understand what’s going on at first, well, not until she realises she can see ghosts and can command them at will. When Hunter, a handsome outcast at school reveals he can also see the ghosts, he and Kayla team up to try and help Carolyn but trouble suddenly arises when a dangerous threat gets in there way……revealing that the supernatural world is very much real and leaving Kayla in more danger than ever.
Wow! This book surprised the hell out of me. I’d actually spent three quarters of the book thinking that this was a ghost story. Of course, I’ve seen the title of the book but there was just no real indication of ‘The Fallen’ but then WHAM! And suddenly I was thrown into The Fallen world and now I need to know more. From the first page, I was sucked into the deadly supernatural world that Daniele has created and then next minute, I’d finished the book. Honestly, it was that good. It’s quiet a short book being around 280 pages but within them 280 pages, you’re thrown in a number of situations leaving you feeling every single emotion. I think this is the first book to actually give me the chills while reading it. The dangerous threats that come Kayla’s way are definitely very creepy and will leave you wanting to know more.
The characters were also absolutely brilliant. I loved both Kayla and Hunter. Their relationship felt a lot more real than the last few books I’ve read recently because it wasn’t an instant thing and because of that it was full of suspense, just what I like. You can clearly see and feel the chemistry between the two characters but the story only touches the surface off their romance and it definitely leaves you wanting to know more. And that ending wow, come on, that’s just a horrible way to end it the story but it was so good at the same time. It’s left me dying to read the next book and I’m eager to find out what happens next.
Overall, Daniele has created an exciting, thrilling and captivating book that is fast past and left readers wanting to know more. An excellent job in my opinion and I can’t wait to read ‘Nephilim’ the next book in her series.
Thank you to Daniele for giving me the opportunity to review her work.
Before I start this review, I just want to say WOW, isn’t that cover lovely? This is what initially attracted me to the book. I love the cover! And as you all know, a great cover doesn’t make a great book but this is the case, Wide Awake……is a GREAT book!
Kayla is a normal 16 year old girl who was adopted at a young age. She goes to school, has a crappy boyfriend and has a group of close friends. When Kayla starts seeing a teenage girl called Carolyn, she doesn’t understand what’s going on at first, well, not until she realises she can see ghosts and can command them at will. When Hunter, a handsome outcast at school reveals he can also see the ghosts, he and Kayla team up to try and help Carolyn but trouble suddenly arises when a dangerous threat gets in there way……revealing that the supernatural world is very much real and leaving Kayla in more danger than ever.
Wow! This book surprised the hell out of me. I’d actually spent three quarters of the book thinking that this was a ghost story. Of course, I’ve seen the title of the book but there was just no real indication of ‘The Fallen’ but then WHAM! And suddenly I was thrown into The Fallen world and now I need to know more. From the first page, I was sucked into the deadly supernatural world that Daniele has created and then next minute, I’d finished the book. Honestly, it was that good. It’s quiet a short book being around 280 pages but within them 280 pages, you’re thrown in a number of situations leaving you feeling every single emotion. I think this is the first book to actually give me the chills while reading it. The dangerous threats that come Kayla’s way are definitely very creepy and will leave you wanting to know more.
The characters were also absolutely brilliant. I loved both Kayla and Hunter. Their relationship felt a lot more real than the last few books I’ve read recently because it wasn’t an instant thing and because of that it was full of suspense, just what I like. You can clearly see and feel the chemistry between the two characters but the story only touches the surface off their romance and it definitely leaves you wanting to know more. And that ending wow, come on, that’s just a horrible way to end it the story but it was so good at the same time. It’s left me dying to read the next book and I’m eager to find out what happens next.
Overall, Daniele has created an exciting, thrilling and captivating book that is fast past and left readers wanting to know more. An excellent job in my opinion and I can’t wait to read ‘Nephilim’ the next book in her series.
Thank you to Daniele for giving me the opportunity to review her work.
January 4, 2015
not a good book to start the year, I admit. I was just tempted to read it because it sounds intriguing. And I was already a quarter of the way through when I realized it was confusing as heck and did not offer that much detail and I did not like having my first book marked as DNF so I plowed through it. :P
April 23, 2014
I flew through this book within the span of several hours and was surprised at how much I liked it. I like YA but it is not my usual read and so finding something that pulled me in so completely is a testament to how good it is. The characters so well defined that I couldn't help but be drawn to them, even the side characters had a definite feel that gave you insight into them and what could be expected from them. Based on the ages of the characters the dialogue was spot on for they talk to each other and the adults they interact with giving them even more life.
Kayla is your typical 16 year old, she has good friends, nice parents, and a so-so boyfriend. The one thing that seems to set Kayla apart is that she was adopted when she was 3 years old and no one has told her about her biological parents. Her days have been spent with shopping and hanging out with her friends until they go on a field trip to the museum and everything changes for her. First she sees a little girl named Carolyn in a back room at the museum and then she shows up again at her home, not totally strange and she takes her home, but then she starts seeing her in other places.
Hunter Chambers was once a friend but now is anti-social and keeps to himself. When Hunter approaches Kayla and says that he knows how to help her and she refuses. He tries a few times and then leaves the ball in her court so she can decide. As things get worse she has to call for help as her normal world starts to spin out of control. Things she never thought existed are now after her and Hunter is the only person standing between her and something worse than death.
Kayla is a kid and as teenagers go not so bad, though we would have issues with her attitude. I found Hunter be the best part of this since Kayla is still a little to soft for my tastes, hoping for her to get a little tougher as things progress. But overall a very enjoyable and entertaining story leading to an even better story I see on the horizon. I will definitely be continuing this series!
Kayla is your typical 16 year old, she has good friends, nice parents, and a so-so boyfriend. The one thing that seems to set Kayla apart is that she was adopted when she was 3 years old and no one has told her about her biological parents. Her days have been spent with shopping and hanging out with her friends until they go on a field trip to the museum and everything changes for her. First she sees a little girl named Carolyn in a back room at the museum and then she shows up again at her home, not totally strange and she takes her home, but then she starts seeing her in other places.
Hunter Chambers was once a friend but now is anti-social and keeps to himself. When Hunter approaches Kayla and says that he knows how to help her and she refuses. He tries a few times and then leaves the ball in her court so she can decide. As things get worse she has to call for help as her normal world starts to spin out of control. Things she never thought existed are now after her and Hunter is the only person standing between her and something worse than death.
Kayla is a kid and as teenagers go not so bad, though we would have issues with her attitude. I found Hunter be the best part of this since Kayla is still a little to soft for my tastes, hoping for her to get a little tougher as things progress. But overall a very enjoyable and entertaining story leading to an even better story I see on the horizon. I will definitely be continuing this series!
October 23, 2013
2.5 stars
(Source: Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk.)
16-year-old Kayla doesn’t know what’s going on when she suddenly sees a girl that no-one else can see. When someone warns her away from a boy at school she has to decide who to trust though.
Why can Kayla see this girl that no-one else can see? And who should she trust?
This book wasn’t bad, but I had issues with the believability of the plot, confusing plotlines, and plot holes.
Kayla was an okay character, but she did come across as a little stupid at times. She didn’t seem to make the same logical conclusions as I did during the book, and at times I wondered what she thought she was achieving. I was pleased at her reaction to her parent’s big news, but she was certainly immature in her decision to dump her boyfriend before he dumped her so she wouldn’t be the dumpee.
The storyline was just a little off in this one. The plot holes were just huge, and then when we got a surprise revelation it was more ‘really?’ than ‘wow!’. The writing itself was okay, but these problems with the plot just spoilt it. Things were so complicated and upside down at points that it was difficult to know what the hell was actually going on, and then when things were revealed that were supposed to explain things, they actually just got even more confusing. It was like – ‘it was the mouse, with the wand, in the ballroom, but it was okay because the mouse was related to dr who, and the person who he killed’s next door neighbour, once went to school with Scooby doo, so if we all go to the north pole and only eat honey for 20 days, the mouse’s blind cousin will be reincarnated as Elvis’. Confused? I might just write that and publish it and see if anyone can keep up!
The ending was a cliff-hanger, and very little was tied up, if anything at all. I might read the next one if it becomes free on kindle at some point, but I don’t think I’ll bother otherwise.
Overall; confusing and strange.
5 out of 10.
(Source: Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk.)
16-year-old Kayla doesn’t know what’s going on when she suddenly sees a girl that no-one else can see. When someone warns her away from a boy at school she has to decide who to trust though.
Why can Kayla see this girl that no-one else can see? And who should she trust?
This book wasn’t bad, but I had issues with the believability of the plot, confusing plotlines, and plot holes.
Kayla was an okay character, but she did come across as a little stupid at times. She didn’t seem to make the same logical conclusions as I did during the book, and at times I wondered what she thought she was achieving. I was pleased at her reaction to her parent’s big news, but she was certainly immature in her decision to dump her boyfriend before he dumped her so she wouldn’t be the dumpee.
The storyline was just a little off in this one. The plot holes were just huge, and then when we got a surprise revelation it was more ‘really?’ than ‘wow!’. The writing itself was okay, but these problems with the plot just spoilt it. Things were so complicated and upside down at points that it was difficult to know what the hell was actually going on, and then when things were revealed that were supposed to explain things, they actually just got even more confusing. It was like – ‘it was the mouse, with the wand, in the ballroom, but it was okay because the mouse was related to dr who, and the person who he killed’s next door neighbour, once went to school with Scooby doo, so if we all go to the north pole and only eat honey for 20 days, the mouse’s blind cousin will be reincarnated as Elvis’. Confused? I might just write that and publish it and see if anyone can keep up!
The ending was a cliff-hanger, and very little was tied up, if anything at all. I might read the next one if it becomes free on kindle at some point, but I don’t think I’ll bother otherwise.
Overall; confusing and strange.
5 out of 10.
March 31, 2013
Before I begin my review I think it is important to mention that at the time of writing this book has a 4.5 rating on Amazon and 3.61 on Goodreads and most of the reviewers seem to have loved it. Unfortunately, I feel like I was reading a different book.
I tried my hardest to like the main character, Kayla, but for me she came across as a spoilt rich kid. If her being a spoilt rich kid was important to the plot in some way then maybe I could understand, but it wasn’t and all it did was make her unlikable for me.
There is the bare bones of a good story idea within this book but in my opinion it read like a first draft with lots of repetitive phrases and scenes that could be cut altogether and the famous writing rule of ‘show, don’t tell’ seems to have been completely ignored. The characters were all very two-dimensional and the dialogue did not fit the age group (in my opinion), and felt very stilted. The book doesn’t really get going until near the end and then it is left on a cliffhanger for book 2. To my mind one novel has been stretched and padded in order to turn it into a trilogy.
I don’t like giving negative reviews and always try to look for the positives, but I also think it is important to be honest and this book just didn’t do it for me. Like I said earlier, other’s seem to love it, so maybe I’m missing something.
I tried my hardest to like the main character, Kayla, but for me she came across as a spoilt rich kid. If her being a spoilt rich kid was important to the plot in some way then maybe I could understand, but it wasn’t and all it did was make her unlikable for me.
There is the bare bones of a good story idea within this book but in my opinion it read like a first draft with lots of repetitive phrases and scenes that could be cut altogether and the famous writing rule of ‘show, don’t tell’ seems to have been completely ignored. The characters were all very two-dimensional and the dialogue did not fit the age group (in my opinion), and felt very stilted. The book doesn’t really get going until near the end and then it is left on a cliffhanger for book 2. To my mind one novel has been stretched and padded in order to turn it into a trilogy.
I don’t like giving negative reviews and always try to look for the positives, but I also think it is important to be honest and this book just didn’t do it for me. Like I said earlier, other’s seem to love it, so maybe I’m missing something.
November 2, 2014
I really enjoyed the world that was being created in this story. Just the right amount of paranormal, but with a twist that makes it new and unique. I think parts of the story may have been rushed just a bit, but over all I loved this book. I couldn't put it down (except when I had to go to work, sad face). I can not wait to read more to see what happens next!
June 3, 2017
I'm not goan say much about this one , but Basically it was pretty much AMAZING! the amount of paranormal in this book is just Right , the world that had been created here is so awesome that I really wanted Kelly gift , speaking about her I'm not exaggerating by saying that it was one of my favorite females characters ever - bc it was so open and honest and not afraid to show or say what she really feeling regardless to who or with whom-
the only inconvenient in this story that it came up so quickly I mean that the author would of taking it slowly in some points :(
and the writing style , it really affected the book a Lott - by a bad way I mean -
the only inconvenient in this story that it came up so quickly I mean that the author would of taking it slowly in some points :(
and the writing style , it really affected the book a Lott - by a bad way I mean -
September 21, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. I just couldn't put the book down once I started. The story is so unique and interesting that it really held my attention. There are so many questions that I have. I just want to keep reading on to see what happens next. This series will definitely be on my TBR for the near future.
May 7, 2013
Wide Awake Academy of the Fallen is a story about a normal sixteen year girl that one day has her perfect little world turned upside down when she goes on field trip with her school and comes across a strange and crying girl that seems to be lost. When Kayla tries to help the girl she is turning on an internal switch that she going to wish she hadn't . Now she's seeing ghost and the only other person who can see them is a once popular and loved by everyone boy named Hunter . Hunter then volunteers to start hanging out in her room to stop the bad ghost Benjamin from having his way with Kayla. With all that time Kayla spends with Hunter a friendship begins to form a friendship that then turns into something more. Ooh okay I want to start off by saying that the cover art of this book gives me the creeps but in a good way. I love when cover art has the power to do that!
Now that's out of the way I will also go on record saying that I have been trying get my hands on this book for the longest time and when I finally did this book did not disappoint. As mentioned above Kayla has a pretty good life going for herself despite having been adopted and not knowing her parents from like birth. She drives a great car, has pretty and popular friends, goes to a pretty decent school in a good neighborhood. Has the popular jock-ish boyfriend but when she goes on a field trip and starts seeing this girl crouched down behind a display or something crying life just isn't same. Loved ,loved, loved how mysterious this book turned out to be . The whole seeing ghost thing is always creepy it doesn't matter if it's in a book or in a movie it's always interesting.
When that detail popped up I thought for sure that I had this book nailed. It was like bam! Got it! I know what her power is! And then when Hunter started seeing the same things too once again I thought for sure that I had everything all figured out. But boy was I wrong. STOP HERE IF YOU DON'T WANT A SPOILER!!!! So when at the end Kayla turned out to be a nephilim I was like floored. Seriously I think my mouth was hanging wide open at that point. I was so shocked because the book didn't start out as the typical fallen angel book with the whole seeing ghost thing and all. And Hunter being some kind I don't know half ghost or something was genius! Now I personal didn't care for Kayla's so called friends. I used the term so called because they didn't seem to about anything besides shopping and gossiping. Which made them very two dimensional.
Even with that it still wasn't that big of a deal to me because they weren't really important to the story like a lot of friends are in YA books. Her ex-boyfriend included were simply props and most of the story takes place while they are just in the background . Let me see is there anything that I didn't like about the book? At this point no. There really wasn't anything that flawed the book or made wonder what Lanzarotta was thinking. Okay so instead of going on and on about how good this book is I'm just going to let my personally rating system do the talking for me. The cover art I 'll give a 8 out of 10 stars, the cover wasn't just beautiful but it was related to the actual story plot and the character. The scenery/settings a 6 out of 10 stars because even though Lanzarotta is one of those few authors that when they describe a place you do get a feeling that you are there but I did wish that there were more scenery to choose from considering that most of the book was spent inside of Kayla's room. The characters a 8 out of 10 stars I really enjoyed both Hunter and Kayla and didn't mind the other characters being simply just props. The plot a 10 out of 10 I really enjoyed the mystery of it all and finally the overall experience a 10 out of 10 stars. Would you read this again? http://bookworm89-bookmebaby.blogspot...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2013
Wide Awake (Academy of the Fallen Series) by Daniele Lanzarotta is a gripping story that is compellingly magnetic from the first page to the last. I had a difficult time stepping away from this original entrancing story and its great set of unforgettable characters.
The supernatural world that Lanzarotta created was truly immense even though the book is just at 280 pages. Even in such a short book, it contained a lot of details, surprises, adventures, and many emotions that you feel satisfied after finishing it. It had a fast-paced plot and the character development is well intact. The book came to life right before my eyes witnessing how these characters matured from facing their issues.
Lanzarotta brilliantly created two characters that I will never forget. Kayla and Hunter’s relationship felt genuinely real and the chemistry between them gives its validity. I am yearning for more of Kayla and Hunter because the story is just the tip of a buried pyramid. I can’t wait for the next books so I can dig out this pyramid, find out more about them, and see what happens next.
Excitement is a major theme in this book for me. Every turn of the page was full of excitement. The story was truly exhilarating and appealing and left me wanting to know more. The next book in the series, Nephilim, has taken a top spot in my To-Be-Read list.
3.5 Stars
The supernatural world that Lanzarotta created was truly immense even though the book is just at 280 pages. Even in such a short book, it contained a lot of details, surprises, adventures, and many emotions that you feel satisfied after finishing it. It had a fast-paced plot and the character development is well intact. The book came to life right before my eyes witnessing how these characters matured from facing their issues.
Lanzarotta brilliantly created two characters that I will never forget. Kayla and Hunter’s relationship felt genuinely real and the chemistry between them gives its validity. I am yearning for more of Kayla and Hunter because the story is just the tip of a buried pyramid. I can’t wait for the next books so I can dig out this pyramid, find out more about them, and see what happens next.
Excitement is a major theme in this book for me. Every turn of the page was full of excitement. The story was truly exhilarating and appealing and left me wanting to know more. The next book in the series, Nephilim, has taken a top spot in my To-Be-Read list.
3.5 Stars
November 22, 2012
I didn't hate this book--I just didn't like it.
First of all, was I really supposed to like Kayla? Because there was nothing about her to like. She was spoiled, shallow, selfish, two-faced, and wasn't aware of how to use her brain.
This book read as very immature. So many exclamation points where there really didn't need to be any.
The characters had no depth. Only Kayla really had any character development, and what she did have was inadequate. A lot of what she did or did not do was without any real reason. I couldn't figure out how it was validated to anyone. And that just showed a lack of revision.
There was no point in this book that I was every actually fully engaged. I never felt engrossed, or a part of what I was reading. My emotions were very separate, and I did not relate to anyone. I also did not form any attachment to anyone. Kayla and Hunter were the same people with different names and supposedly, different genders. I couldn't tell them apart.
The excerpt from the second book was looking a little more promising, And if I stumble across it, I might give it a go. But I won't be out looking for it. And I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone after an engaging read.
First of all, was I really supposed to like Kayla? Because there was nothing about her to like. She was spoiled, shallow, selfish, two-faced, and wasn't aware of how to use her brain.
This book read as very immature. So many exclamation points where there really didn't need to be any.
The characters had no depth. Only Kayla really had any character development, and what she did have was inadequate. A lot of what she did or did not do was without any real reason. I couldn't figure out how it was validated to anyone. And that just showed a lack of revision.
There was no point in this book that I was every actually fully engaged. I never felt engrossed, or a part of what I was reading. My emotions were very separate, and I did not relate to anyone. I also did not form any attachment to anyone. Kayla and Hunter were the same people with different names and supposedly, different genders. I couldn't tell them apart.
The excerpt from the second book was looking a little more promising, And if I stumble across it, I might give it a go. But I won't be out looking for it. And I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone after an engaging read.
July 24, 2011
This is the first book I have read by this author and it won’t be my last. I read this book in one sitting. I could not put it down. Kayla is your ordinary 16 year old girl until one day she sees a little crying while on a school field trip and later in her house. She soon realizes that what she is seeing is a ghost. Kayla’s world is turned upside down not only can she see ghosts but demons also. Hunter says he can help Kayla with them but she needs to trust him. Hunter knows about Kayla’s past who her real parents are why her father gave her up. Hunter himself is not a normal teenager. But for Kayla to trust Hunter he needs to trust her. The author takes you on wild ride with the Fallen. I can not wait to read Nephilim and see where the story goes.
October 23, 2013
Right from the start, i knew i wouldn't get along with Wide Awake.
The main character annoyed me instantly, and she didn't get any better throughout the book.
I found the writing to be quiet robotic. Through most of the book, instead of "You're right" it would be "You are right", Instead of "it's not like that" it would be "It is not like that" (ect.)
While it's not really a big issue, i found it to be annoying.
The story itself was dull, and while the title is "Wide awake", i certainly wasn't.
This wasn't a book i enjoyed, so i won't be reading book two.
The main character annoyed me instantly, and she didn't get any better throughout the book.
I found the writing to be quiet robotic. Through most of the book, instead of "You're right" it would be "You are right", Instead of "it's not like that" it would be "It is not like that" (ect.)
While it's not really a big issue, i found it to be annoying.
The story itself was dull, and while the title is "Wide awake", i certainly wasn't.
This wasn't a book i enjoyed, so i won't be reading book two.
February 13, 2013
Wide Awake was a wonderful book... I love the way the friendship between Hunter and Kayla builds though the entire book. All the twist and turns as she navigate through all the changes in her life kept me glued to the book. I completed the book in 3 hours... I think it might be a record for me. I could not put it down and could not wait to see what was going to happen on the next page.
I am looking forward to completing the trilogy!
I also wanted to give a shout out to Narrator of the book, Sarah McKee. For this being her first audible book, she did an amazing job of capturing Kayla's emotion. By the end of the story... she had me so sucked in, I was devastated when it ended. I hope that she continues the series.
So, get the next books done quickly please! I want more!
I am looking forward to completing the trilogy!
I also wanted to give a shout out to Narrator of the book, Sarah McKee. For this being her first audible book, she did an amazing job of capturing Kayla's emotion. By the end of the story... she had me so sucked in, I was devastated when it ended. I hope that she continues the series.
So, get the next books done quickly please! I want more!
August 28, 2014
I was surprised how easily I read this book. The dialogue was short and normal sounding. The story was gripping right away. The first 50% of the book had spirits and weird surroundings and we don’t know why Kayla sees these beings. It never came across as horror, but it stayed suspenseful and evolving. Who is Carolyn? Why is she here?
Then we get into Hunter and Kayla’s birth family and the story changes into a goth spirit story. Kayla has to save unborn children before they are used by an evil spirit.
Things change again at 80% of the book because we get a new point of view. The author is clear about the switch so it’s not confusing.
This is part one of a series so there is a cliff hanger ending. As a stand alone, I enjoyed this story.
Then we get into Hunter and Kayla’s birth family and the story changes into a goth spirit story. Kayla has to save unborn children before they are used by an evil spirit.
Things change again at 80% of the book because we get a new point of view. The author is clear about the switch so it’s not confusing.
This is part one of a series so there is a cliff hanger ending. As a stand alone, I enjoyed this story.
October 13, 2011
What!?! I can't believe that was the ending! I started reading this book as a quickie read, which it was since I finished it in 3hrs. I wasn't expected to get sucked into the plot like I was. I am still confused as to what is really occurring in the book. Between the Haunted, the fallen and the academy, I can definitely say that I really can't predict this book just yet. It pains me to say this, but I think the story finished at exactly the right spot because now I am on a mission to continue reading about Kayla and Hunter. Actually, I have a feeling that this cliffhanger is going to drive me crazy by the time the next book is released.
January 25, 2013
The first page will pull you in and keep you reading.
Kayla is a teen who sees a teenage girl named Carolyn, which is a ghost. Kayla soon realises that she can see, talk to and command ghosts. Just when she thinks she's losin it, Hunter a dark and mysterious teen at her school steps up and lets her know it will be ok, and he sees them also.
While trying to understand this new activity in her life, her and Hunter are also trying to find out why a demon is after her.
I really enjoyed this book. The storyline is wonderfully wrote and the characters are brilliant. It has a bit of horror mixed in with paranormal, and the emotions through out the book, only makes it more real.
Kayla is a teen who sees a teenage girl named Carolyn, which is a ghost. Kayla soon realises that she can see, talk to and command ghosts. Just when she thinks she's losin it, Hunter a dark and mysterious teen at her school steps up and lets her know it will be ok, and he sees them also.
While trying to understand this new activity in her life, her and Hunter are also trying to find out why a demon is after her.
I really enjoyed this book. The storyline is wonderfully wrote and the characters are brilliant. It has a bit of horror mixed in with paranormal, and the emotions through out the book, only makes it more real.
August 1, 2012
This book totally rocked my world. The story was packed with action and some romance, a perfect YA read!
Kayla is a 16 year old living happily with her adoptive parents. Soon things get a little crazy when she starts seeing and talking to people that aren't really there. Just when she thinks that she may be losing it, Hunter confirms that she isn't crazy. He helps her to understand and use her abilities to talk to ghosts. Together they work on figuring out why a demon is after her.
Kayla is a 16 year old living happily with her adoptive parents. Soon things get a little crazy when she starts seeing and talking to people that aren't really there. Just when she thinks that she may be losing it, Hunter confirms that she isn't crazy. He helps her to understand and use her abilities to talk to ghosts. Together they work on figuring out why a demon is after her.
February 28, 2015
Another freebie download that surprised me! A nice easy read that had me going straight onto my kindle app to download the next installment as soon as I had finished it! I like the way that you learn about these 'beings' powers etc as the main character does! def worth a read!
June 3, 2015
I like it when a suspense book has a quick pace, and Daniele accomplished that. I like Kayla and Hunter; they both are complicated and interesting where you want to understand more about them. Looking forward to reading book 2
February 1, 2016
**SPOILER FREE**
This is a great book! Looks to be a start of a series. You won't be bored with it that's for sure. Will keep you turning the pages to see what's taking place next. Open for 14 and up who love to read.
This is a great book! Looks to be a start of a series. You won't be bored with it that's for sure. Will keep you turning the pages to see what's taking place next. Open for 14 and up who love to read.
July 28, 2011
It was a great book. Has the same feel as all of Daniele's other books but with a new twist. Really love the Hunter character and can't wait to see what happens to Kayla.
February 26, 2014
Really enjoyed it, cant wait to read more about hunter and kayla
June 20, 2014
It was a really good book. It kept me on the edge of my set and I never wanted to put it down. Second book should be good as the first!!!
August 27, 2012
Short read and slightly different for a series about fallen angels, but i enjoyed it!
December 5, 2014
Very well written. Love the relationship of Kayla and Hunter. Wish the book was longer. Want to read the next one.
December 7, 2015
NO. I CANT CONTINUE. IT'S LIKE LISTENING TO THE RUMBLINGS OF A SPOILED 10 YEAR OLD.
March 8, 2017
The story starts off as a little brat, not really appealing to me but I thought let's try and give this a shot, gets dumped by her not-so-perfect-anymore boyfriend. Then, as she tries to get her act together she hears a girl crying, and when she tried to get her help, the girl disappears.
I didn't connect with Kayla. She was too much of a brat for me.
Good point for her, she didn't sit around and mope when her world gets shattered. Another good point for Daniele is that Kayla always knew she was adopted and has a great relationship with her adoptive parents. No secrets there. Hunter was interesting and I liked that there was no insta-love. Finally, it was interesting to read about something else than vampires.
Not enough information is provided about the setting of the book. I am still wondering about the haunted, the fallen and the Academy. Everything moves really slow in the middle of the book and there are events that are just pointless and don't add anything to the plot. And then, everything gets rushed at the end of the book. It feels to me like it could have used more pages. I didn't like the narrative either. It was from Kayla's POV, but it was very detached. It didn't help me connect with the characters.
Overall, it wasn't too bad, I'm just used to more elaborate books. That's not going to keep from reading the rest of the series.
I didn't connect with Kayla. She was too much of a brat for me.
Good point for her, she didn't sit around and mope when her world gets shattered. Another good point for Daniele is that Kayla always knew she was adopted and has a great relationship with her adoptive parents. No secrets there. Hunter was interesting and I liked that there was no insta-love. Finally, it was interesting to read about something else than vampires.
Not enough information is provided about the setting of the book. I am still wondering about the haunted, the fallen and the Academy. Everything moves really slow in the middle of the book and there are events that are just pointless and don't add anything to the plot. And then, everything gets rushed at the end of the book. It feels to me like it could have used more pages. I didn't like the narrative either. It was from Kayla's POV, but it was very detached. It didn't help me connect with the characters.
Overall, it wasn't too bad, I'm just used to more elaborate books. That's not going to keep from reading the rest of the series.
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