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The Caged #1
Flightless Bird
They're powerless without her; she's powerless to resist.
The list of reasons why Lexus Wren is the last girl any guy would be interested in is mercilessly long:
Her dad’s in prison for murder, her mom drowns her sorrows every night at Dave’s Dive, and Lexus is just trying to survive the cruelties of high school as a painfully shy bookworm with a bad wardrobe and a collection of nervous habits. Never in a million years did Lexus expect to draw the eyes of two hunky transfer students, Phoenix and Griffin Easton.
The troubled brothers are haunted by their own demons and don’t seem bothered by Lexus’ tarnished reputation. They’re too busy trying to figure out why touching her makes them feel like electricity is frying their insides and why they're compelled to obey her every command.
You’d think having two hot guys vying for her would improve her reputation, but the bullying at home and school only gets worse. When Lexus’ problems reach a critical tipping point, the boys are drawn to protect her, and the truth about their powerful connection is revealed in an explosive confrontation that will astound them all...
The list of reasons why Lexus Wren is the last girl any guy would be interested in is mercilessly long:
Her dad’s in prison for murder, her mom drowns her sorrows every night at Dave’s Dive, and Lexus is just trying to survive the cruelties of high school as a painfully shy bookworm with a bad wardrobe and a collection of nervous habits. Never in a million years did Lexus expect to draw the eyes of two hunky transfer students, Phoenix and Griffin Easton.
The troubled brothers are haunted by their own demons and don’t seem bothered by Lexus’ tarnished reputation. They’re too busy trying to figure out why touching her makes them feel like electricity is frying their insides and why they're compelled to obey her every command.
You’d think having two hot guys vying for her would improve her reputation, but the bullying at home and school only gets worse. When Lexus’ problems reach a critical tipping point, the boys are drawn to protect her, and the truth about their powerful connection is revealed in an explosive confrontation that will astound them all...
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2017
556 people are currently reading
912 people want to read
About the author
Kellie McAllen
32 books320 followersKellie McAllen is a USA Today Bestselling author who has her nose in a book whenever she can. When she's not reading or writing, she's usually hanging out at the beach, guest judging on DWTS (from her living room), or watching cute cat videos. She lives in North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
September 4, 2017
Flightless Bird: The Caged Series, Book 1
Written by: Kellie McAllen
Narrated by: Heather Taylor
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
This is a great teen/young adult book that has characters that are well developed and a plot that is pretty good. The girl is a loner due to a drunk mom and she is poor, she is picked on at school every year. This year she meets twin good looking guys that are new to town and both take a liking to her. They are foster kids. Both boys are trying to win her over. The fantasy part of the book doesn't come in until the very end and only in teasing bits. This is my only complaint. I would have liked this story to have more fantasy and have it arrive earlier.Also, it leaves the book hanging. I give this a 3 1/5 rounding up to 4 stars. A good book but would be better if the fantasy would be started earlier and not a cliff hanger. At least to me. :)
The narration is just right for this teen/young adult book!
Written by: Kellie McAllen
Narrated by: Heather Taylor
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
This is a great teen/young adult book that has characters that are well developed and a plot that is pretty good. The girl is a loner due to a drunk mom and she is poor, she is picked on at school every year. This year she meets twin good looking guys that are new to town and both take a liking to her. They are foster kids. Both boys are trying to win her over. The fantasy part of the book doesn't come in until the very end and only in teasing bits. This is my only complaint. I would have liked this story to have more fantasy and have it arrive earlier.Also, it leaves the book hanging. I give this a 3 1/5 rounding up to 4 stars. A good book but would be better if the fantasy would be started earlier and not a cliff hanger. At least to me. :)
The narration is just right for this teen/young adult book!
June 15, 2017
3.75 Stars.
This was a nice little break from my normal NA/Erotica reading. Its very YA - the MC's are 15 and 16 - and very innocent. The characters are likeable and did fit their age. They, yes there are three of them..one girl and two boys (whom will all end up in one relationship...), due to circumstances are mature for their age but in no way act like teens in NA reads (drinking, partying, supposed sex gods by 18).
I look forward to the next book as its going to delve more into their powers.
This was a nice little break from my normal NA/Erotica reading. Its very YA - the MC's are 15 and 16 - and very innocent. The characters are likeable and did fit their age. They, yes there are three of them..one girl and two boys (whom will all end up in one relationship...), due to circumstances are mature for their age but in no way act like teens in NA reads (drinking, partying, supposed sex gods by 18).
I look forward to the next book as its going to delve more into their powers.
March 24, 2018
Paranormal reverse harem, young adult insta-love that could have been so so much more interesting with actual character and relationship development. When I first started, I actually thought the author was going to have her characters *gasp* get to know each other! But alas, it was not to be. KU or I wouldn't be intrigued enough to continue to Book 2.
May 16, 2019
Immediately my thoughts on this book are: this is a lot like Charcoal Tears and although I've never read it, I'm pretty sure the female lead of Introductions is also a girl from a broken home with extreme self-esteem issues who suddenly gets several boys on her side who act very familiar very quickly and who take it upon themselves to take care of her. I also think another RH series, Brothers of the Flame features a similar "abused heroine suddenly gets harem that saves her from her woes" story.
I guess the idea is that heroines with shit lives should be compensated by the universe with not one romance but two or more. Interesting.
The similarities, however, aren't just in the fact that Lexus is from a bad home and that her life is suddenly improved by boys having interest in her welfare and happiness, but the fact that the main plot arc isn't really discussed in this first book. Much like how Seraph's powers and the boys motives are vague in book #1 so is Lexus's sparking connection to Griffin and Phoenix and the supernatural events that occur as a result. The only real tell we're given is a POV at the end from a suddenly introduced character who's involved in the supernatural thing who is made aware of our leads' existences.
But, unlike the Seraph Black series, which has very lyrical writing and a pretty decent emotional punch, this story was very condensed and lacking in comparison.
The story claims to be slow burn, but within the 200 pages of this book, everyone is declaring their love and they boys' interest in her was immediate, as was their insertion into her life. This was an issue I had with the Seraph Black series; the boys just act way too familiar way too fast and the girl, who should be way more wary, just goes along with it without much thought. I suppose you can blame the supernatural element that makes them go all sparky when they touch, but for me, these sorts of romance explanations are no fun. They absolve authors of the need to work for a relationship. I suppose the "slow burn" means "they don't officially start dating in this book" because the romance unfolds really fast.
I think there was a decent idea in here, but because this book is so similar to the Seraph Black series and I didn't enjoy it as much, this story mostly just feels like a copycat.
Lexus's abuse isn't super well done. It was sort of cliche. Dad is out of the picture and Mom is just a typical bad parent: drinks, brings home bad men, yells, has random fits of violence, never takes care of her kid, gets angry over dumb things, order kid around, etc. And then, of course, Lexus is bullied because... shy, bad parents, poor, ugly clothes... and has no friends. It's not that I don't feel for her, but as someone with a very complex home life who was bullied as a kid, I can tell you that the nature of Lexu's problems is very.... textbook. It's what people think abuse and bullying always is when the truth is that it's often a lot more subtle than this and a lot harder to do anything about.
As much as I wanted to feel for Lexus and as much as I empathize with abuse victims, the writing just didn't convey the emotion. I didn't feel her sadness or loneliness or hurt. She mostly was just written to be very shy and quietly endure. For a book with alternating POVs, the boys did a better job at getting emotion out of the situation than Lexus did.
I think the POV switching was the strongest feature of the story, since it expanded on the boys thoughts and motivations and personalities better than Lexus's inner dialogue did. The boys were very sweet and I liked them, but like Lexus, there was just a sort of disconnect. Basically we're told that because they're foster kids that they have no trouble immediately acting super close to Lexus, which doesn't fly. As open as I am with people I want to befriend, there's still a certain amount of distance and work to be done about crossing the threshold into utter comfort and openness with them.
I will say that this is definitely a YA novel; I don't know if the trend will continue or if as the characters age up they get more intimate and if so how explicit that might be, but the heroine is 15 and the boys are 16, and nothing really mature or graphic happens. They kiss on the lips like twice, several cheek kisses, hand holding, hugs, and there's a brief eluding to Phoenix masturbating about Lexus without explicitly stating it or anything (which is normal for teens and still within YA realms; I think it's unrealistic and unhelpful for YA books for teens to act as if sex and sexual attraction don't exist), and then of course there's the mom's boyfriend acting creepy towards Lexus with comments about comparing her breasts to tomatoes and groping her, but nothing is super explicit and it doesn't go beyond these things.
I might look into book #2 because of Kindle Unlimited and out of a curiosity for what's happening with the sparking energy touch stuff, but overall I wasn't too thrilled about this book. It was a very short and easy read, so I will say that this series is definitely more of a kindle serial series wherein each book isn't REALLY its own arc but sort of a ~200 page section of a story sold for like $3 or $4 a piece. You could probably squish all 4 books into 1 volume and read it as a singular novel and not notice any areas that could be considered worthwhile for an entire break into a new book.
On that note, if I hadn't gotten this for free during a random sale and had paid for it, I would be very pissed. This is like a 99 cent read. Definitely only check out with KU.
I guess the idea is that heroines with shit lives should be compensated by the universe with not one romance but two or more. Interesting.
The similarities, however, aren't just in the fact that Lexus is from a bad home and that her life is suddenly improved by boys having interest in her welfare and happiness, but the fact that the main plot arc isn't really discussed in this first book. Much like how Seraph's powers and the boys motives are vague in book #1 so is Lexus's sparking connection to Griffin and Phoenix and the supernatural events that occur as a result. The only real tell we're given is a POV at the end from a suddenly introduced character who's involved in the supernatural thing who is made aware of our leads' existences.
But, unlike the Seraph Black series, which has very lyrical writing and a pretty decent emotional punch, this story was very condensed and lacking in comparison.
The story claims to be slow burn, but within the 200 pages of this book, everyone is declaring their love and they boys' interest in her was immediate, as was their insertion into her life. This was an issue I had with the Seraph Black series; the boys just act way too familiar way too fast and the girl, who should be way more wary, just goes along with it without much thought. I suppose you can blame the supernatural element that makes them go all sparky when they touch, but for me, these sorts of romance explanations are no fun. They absolve authors of the need to work for a relationship. I suppose the "slow burn" means "they don't officially start dating in this book" because the romance unfolds really fast.
I think there was a decent idea in here, but because this book is so similar to the Seraph Black series and I didn't enjoy it as much, this story mostly just feels like a copycat.
Lexus's abuse isn't super well done. It was sort of cliche. Dad is out of the picture and Mom is just a typical bad parent: drinks, brings home bad men, yells, has random fits of violence, never takes care of her kid, gets angry over dumb things, order kid around, etc. And then, of course, Lexus is bullied because... shy, bad parents, poor, ugly clothes... and has no friends. It's not that I don't feel for her, but as someone with a very complex home life who was bullied as a kid, I can tell you that the nature of Lexu's problems is very.... textbook. It's what people think abuse and bullying always is when the truth is that it's often a lot more subtle than this and a lot harder to do anything about.
As much as I wanted to feel for Lexus and as much as I empathize with abuse victims, the writing just didn't convey the emotion. I didn't feel her sadness or loneliness or hurt. She mostly was just written to be very shy and quietly endure. For a book with alternating POVs, the boys did a better job at getting emotion out of the situation than Lexus did.
I think the POV switching was the strongest feature of the story, since it expanded on the boys thoughts and motivations and personalities better than Lexus's inner dialogue did. The boys were very sweet and I liked them, but like Lexus, there was just a sort of disconnect. Basically we're told that because they're foster kids that they have no trouble immediately acting super close to Lexus, which doesn't fly. As open as I am with people I want to befriend, there's still a certain amount of distance and work to be done about crossing the threshold into utter comfort and openness with them.
I will say that this is definitely a YA novel; I don't know if the trend will continue or if as the characters age up they get more intimate and if so how explicit that might be, but the heroine is 15 and the boys are 16, and nothing really mature or graphic happens. They kiss on the lips like twice, several cheek kisses, hand holding, hugs, and there's a brief eluding to Phoenix masturbating about Lexus without explicitly stating it or anything (which is normal for teens and still within YA realms; I think it's unrealistic and unhelpful for YA books for teens to act as if sex and sexual attraction don't exist), and then of course there's the mom's boyfriend acting creepy towards Lexus with comments about comparing her breasts to tomatoes and groping her, but nothing is super explicit and it doesn't go beyond these things.
I might look into book #2 because of Kindle Unlimited and out of a curiosity for what's happening with the sparking energy touch stuff, but overall I wasn't too thrilled about this book. It was a very short and easy read, so I will say that this series is definitely more of a kindle serial series wherein each book isn't REALLY its own arc but sort of a ~200 page section of a story sold for like $3 or $4 a piece. You could probably squish all 4 books into 1 volume and read it as a singular novel and not notice any areas that could be considered worthwhile for an entire break into a new book.
On that note, if I hadn't gotten this for free during a random sale and had paid for it, I would be very pissed. This is like a 99 cent read. Definitely only check out with KU.
dnf
April 27, 2017I don't ordinarily care about character ages in books, not like there is a set "way" to act your age, but it made me somewhat uncomfortable to read the MC's thoughts after learning she was 15. Discussing a longing she felt looking at the brothers and how she wasn't pretty enough for guys to look at her like her mother...I just felt uncomfortable. I suppose its the manner in which its presented (she's at a shady dive bar) more than anything else. She was just thinking about how she had dreams to leave the town when hormones inconveniently hit.
Anyway that's my opinion, YMMV. This blurb is more a reminder to myself for later reference.
Anyway that's my opinion, YMMV. This blurb is more a reminder to myself for later reference.
November 2, 2017
This is really like a 3.5 for me, and it gets to a 3.5 in part because it's a paranormal romance book. My problem with the book is the author doesn't take the time to develop the relationships of the characters.
*spoilers ahead*
The entire first book takes place in the course of the week. I'm OK with slow moving books as in the characters are moving through calendar days at a snails pace,, I'm talking about you Ghost Bird series, so maybe the author is setting up a universe to allow a lot of things to happen in the next three years minus one week of high school the three main characters have available, but even if that's the case, there are still too many leaps. Yes the girl, Lexus, is lonely and desperate for companionship, but on day one she let's them buy her dinner after admitting she has no money instead of throwing up an excuse to hide her poverty of which she is ashamed, which is just unrealistic, paranormal or not.
Day three of knowing the two boys, Phoenix and Griffin, she let's Griffin fully stock her house with groceries knowing he is a foster kid who doesn't have much money of his own.
Day four she let's Phoenix, also a foster kid, buy her a new wardrobe and makeup from Abercrombie and Fitch and the department store make-up counter, you know, a store known for their reasonable prices even on clearance clothing. So now in four days of knowing these two boys she has allowed them to both spend their entire life savings on her. I know she wants for a lot, but that doesn't really paint her in a good light.
By day five both of the guys have professed their love for her as in I love you, will you be my girlfriend? OK, this is where you get a little bit of a pass because of the paranormal element, but still. The inexplicably strong attraction and need to be with one another I can somewhat forgive, they are teenage supernatural and that's just the way super powers and hormones go, but I've known your for five days I love you be my girlfriend is taking it too far.
I really think the author was trying to rush the connection to have it in place for book 2 where they will apparently end up at a school for the supernatural, and she wanted to have the peer bullies be part of the catalyst that brought the group together, but take the time to develop those relationships so the girl doesn't come off as a user and the guys stuck under some paranormal spell. the reader already has to suspend reality for the paranormal aspect of the story, you have to hold fast to reality in the facets of daily life and the development of relationships.
Let them spend the summer getting to know each other, they could have still had run ins with their peers around the town, which is apparently both small (so everyone knows your business) and large (so that it's possible not to know who a great deal of people in the high school are which is odd when every single one of them has been cast as villains who hate Lexus until she gets a makeover) when convenient to the story. Lexus mom could still be an abusive drunk who she needs rescuing from, but it would all happen in a realistic time frame.
I also had a little bit of trouble figuring out why everyone would hate Lexus so much for being poor and having bad parents. she had literally zero friends. Not one other lost soul to hang with, but the very same students who ostracized Lexus had no problem welcoming the two foster brother in with welcoming arms.
It's not a horrible read. The editing didn't leave any errors blindingly apparent, the story isn't bad, the attachment to the characters isn't really there, but the time wasn't taken to develop them or their relationship. Its something that I'll at least read book 2, and I'll continue reading books in the series until such point where the lack of development becomes too big of a distraction. It's a first book in the series, sometimes those are kind of weak and the quirks are worked out as the series continues. The quirks here aren't bad enough to prevent finishing the book or starting the next in the series.
*spoilers ahead*
The entire first book takes place in the course of the week. I'm OK with slow moving books as in the characters are moving through calendar days at a snails pace,, I'm talking about you Ghost Bird series, so maybe the author is setting up a universe to allow a lot of things to happen in the next three years minus one week of high school the three main characters have available, but even if that's the case, there are still too many leaps. Yes the girl, Lexus, is lonely and desperate for companionship, but on day one she let's them buy her dinner after admitting she has no money instead of throwing up an excuse to hide her poverty of which she is ashamed, which is just unrealistic, paranormal or not.
Day three of knowing the two boys, Phoenix and Griffin, she let's Griffin fully stock her house with groceries knowing he is a foster kid who doesn't have much money of his own.
Day four she let's Phoenix, also a foster kid, buy her a new wardrobe and makeup from Abercrombie and Fitch and the department store make-up counter, you know, a store known for their reasonable prices even on clearance clothing. So now in four days of knowing these two boys she has allowed them to both spend their entire life savings on her. I know she wants for a lot, but that doesn't really paint her in a good light.
By day five both of the guys have professed their love for her as in I love you, will you be my girlfriend? OK, this is where you get a little bit of a pass because of the paranormal element, but still. The inexplicably strong attraction and need to be with one another I can somewhat forgive, they are teenage supernatural and that's just the way super powers and hormones go, but I've known your for five days I love you be my girlfriend is taking it too far.
I really think the author was trying to rush the connection to have it in place for book 2 where they will apparently end up at a school for the supernatural, and she wanted to have the peer bullies be part of the catalyst that brought the group together, but take the time to develop those relationships so the girl doesn't come off as a user and the guys stuck under some paranormal spell. the reader already has to suspend reality for the paranormal aspect of the story, you have to hold fast to reality in the facets of daily life and the development of relationships.
Let them spend the summer getting to know each other, they could have still had run ins with their peers around the town, which is apparently both small (so everyone knows your business) and large (so that it's possible not to know who a great deal of people in the high school are which is odd when every single one of them has been cast as villains who hate Lexus until she gets a makeover) when convenient to the story. Lexus mom could still be an abusive drunk who she needs rescuing from, but it would all happen in a realistic time frame.
I also had a little bit of trouble figuring out why everyone would hate Lexus so much for being poor and having bad parents. she had literally zero friends. Not one other lost soul to hang with, but the very same students who ostracized Lexus had no problem welcoming the two foster brother in with welcoming arms.
It's not a horrible read. The editing didn't leave any errors blindingly apparent, the story isn't bad, the attachment to the characters isn't really there, but the time wasn't taken to develop them or their relationship. Its something that I'll at least read book 2, and I'll continue reading books in the series until such point where the lack of development becomes too big of a distraction. It's a first book in the series, sometimes those are kind of weak and the quirks are worked out as the series continues. The quirks here aren't bad enough to prevent finishing the book or starting the next in the series.
July 22, 2017
Pretty interesting start to a YA series. The new type of supernatural is unique enough to make me curious about book 2.
April 13, 2017
This book is Flightless Bird, book one of The Caged Series, written by Kellie McAllen. I really liked this story but I wish I had book two in my hands right now. Lol. Lexus is a normal teenage girl with an awful home life and deep insecurities. Her Mom is a huge disappointment and her father is in prison. So what happens when identical twins move to town and start going to her school? Griffen and Phoenix meet Lexus and none of them seem to be able to pull theirselves away from each other. How will things work out for the teenage trio? What keeps causing the electric shocks?? Read it to see, but word to the wise....wait until the next ones are out already. 😏 I received a complimentary readers advance copy and chose voluntarily to leave this review.
February 19, 2024
Ok read. The book has some timeline issues and grammar issues, but my biggest complaint is the stereotypical portrayal of the physical education teacher. It is so old school it doesn't match the time frame.
For my clean readers: language-tons, but no f-bomb. Violence-teen boy assaults girl for bullying another girl(not sexually) and gets in trouble for it. Bullying is prolific. Mother is an alcoholic and physically and verbally abuses daughter. Mother's boyfriend assaults daughter and molestation her. Romance-kissing.
For my clean readers: language-tons, but no f-bomb. Violence-teen boy assaults girl for bullying another girl(not sexually) and gets in trouble for it. Bullying is prolific. Mother is an alcoholic and physically and verbally abuses daughter. Mother's boyfriend assaults daughter and molestation her. Romance-kissing.
May 13, 2017
Fifteen year old Lexus (yes, that's her name) has a pretty crappy life. Her father is in prison and her mother is an abusive alcoholic, and that often makes her a target for bullying at school. But that all starts to change when she meets the twins - two new boys in town.
“She said she was looking for her mom’s phone, but all I could hear was, “I’m here to turn your world upside down.”
Griffin and Phoenix have moved from one foster home to another, so they're used to being new in town. Phoenix is the more outgoing type, he's the social butterfly, always quick to flirt and to throw a smile your way.
Griffin, according to him, is a consolation prize compared to his brother. He's the one the girls go for only after his brother is taken. He's more quiet of the two.
When the two of them meet Lexus, sparks start to fly. And I don't mean that in a metaphorical kind of way, there are honest to god sparks between them. Both of them see something in a quiet and shy Lexus that they like. Seeing as how they never went for the same girl in the past, this is an uncovered territory for them. But Phoenix and Griffin like her too much to give up their pursuit.
For an incredibly shy and insecure girl like Lexus, who never had any friend, being the center of the twins attention is new and really precious. But how can she possibly choose between the only two people who ever showed her any kindness?
I did not like how Lex unconsciously pitted brother against each other. It wasn't anything she did, it was just the approach the twins decided to take in their pursuit of her and I did not like that. The relationship between the three of them felt more like a competition than anything deeper, but I'd love to see the way it progresses later on.
The writing was the kind that draws you in from the first sentence and the story was rather interesting. I really liked the characters and just wish the book was a bit longer. Just when we started getting to the interesting part, the book ended. Can't wait for the next one!
“She said she was looking for her mom’s phone, but all I could hear was, “I’m here to turn your world upside down.”
Griffin and Phoenix have moved from one foster home to another, so they're used to being new in town. Phoenix is the more outgoing type, he's the social butterfly, always quick to flirt and to throw a smile your way.
Griffin, according to him, is a consolation prize compared to his brother. He's the one the girls go for only after his brother is taken. He's more quiet of the two.
When the two of them meet Lexus, sparks start to fly. And I don't mean that in a metaphorical kind of way, there are honest to god sparks between them. Both of them see something in a quiet and shy Lexus that they like. Seeing as how they never went for the same girl in the past, this is an uncovered territory for them. But Phoenix and Griffin like her too much to give up their pursuit.
For an incredibly shy and insecure girl like Lexus, who never had any friend, being the center of the twins attention is new and really precious. But how can she possibly choose between the only two people who ever showed her any kindness?
I did not like how Lex unconsciously pitted brother against each other. It wasn't anything she did, it was just the approach the twins decided to take in their pursuit of her and I did not like that. The relationship between the three of them felt more like a competition than anything deeper, but I'd love to see the way it progresses later on.
The writing was the kind that draws you in from the first sentence and the story was rather interesting. I really liked the characters and just wish the book was a bit longer. Just when we started getting to the interesting part, the book ended. Can't wait for the next one!
June 20, 2025
Read this in one day-talk about a quick read! The writing is good, and I’m always a fan of pov switching. The plot is also nice, it’s hardly predictable and stays mostly light (considering her backstory), and anything stressful doesn’t stay that way for long. I liked it! It’s definitely a story filled with young love, and though it’s been a while since I was their age, it was easy enough to understand and feel for the characters. Definitely will read the next one!
August 28, 2017
3.5 stars. I enjoyed this book. I read it in less than 1 day.
May 11, 2017
This book is such a great start to a new series by Kellie McAllen. It's about a young girl that is very poor and lives with an alcoholic and abusive mother. Two new students, identical twins, move into the area, and they both work at the bar Lexus' mother frequents. When they develop an interest in Lexus, she doesn't know what to think, since she is the student that is bullied by other students. Slowly she starts to trust them and spend time with them, despite being physically disciplined by her mother for hanging out with them.
I really liked the book. As with all of Kellie's books, they writing style is superb, and the story flows really well. I was immediately drawn in because Lexus is in such a bad situation and is not taken care of. Instead, she is the caretaker for her mother. I was so emotionally invested in the story, that I found myself cheering for Lexus along the way and rejoicing with the relationship she is developing with the twins.
I highly recommend this book, and I'm excited to read the next books in the series.
I received an ARC copy of this book, and voluntarily wrote this review.
I really liked the book. As with all of Kellie's books, they writing style is superb, and the story flows really well. I was immediately drawn in because Lexus is in such a bad situation and is not taken care of. Instead, she is the caretaker for her mother. I was so emotionally invested in the story, that I found myself cheering for Lexus along the way and rejoicing with the relationship she is developing with the twins.
I highly recommend this book, and I'm excited to read the next books in the series.
I received an ARC copy of this book, and voluntarily wrote this review.
November 17, 2017
Rating : 3 stars
I really liked it and I'm already reading the next book. But I have some issues with it, and while it's not ruining the enjoyment, it made me unable to really love it.
1. Lexus has a huge Sang Sorensen feeling. Unfortunately, she takes the shyness to an other level, to the point of being annoying. But it doesn't mean I disliked her. I might have found her a bit too passive and almost invisible, but she does have the Female Lead Halo and charisma. She's gonna evolve into Lexus 2.0, and it's gonna be awesome.
2. Insta-love sucks, even if it seems to make sense in their case.
3. I don't like love triangles, but the boys are okay and seeing them fighting for her attention is kind of fun. But I don't find them close and it's supposed to be them against the world.
4. The supernatural part is almost non-existant as for now.
I really liked it and I'm already reading the next book. But I have some issues with it, and while it's not ruining the enjoyment, it made me unable to really love it.
1. Lexus has a huge Sang Sorensen feeling. Unfortunately, she takes the shyness to an other level, to the point of being annoying. But it doesn't mean I disliked her. I might have found her a bit too passive and almost invisible, but she does have the Female Lead Halo and charisma. She's gonna evolve into Lexus 2.0, and it's gonna be awesome.
2. Insta-love sucks, even if it seems to make sense in their case.
3. I don't like love triangles, but the boys are okay and seeing them fighting for her attention is kind of fun. But I don't find them close and it's supposed to be them against the world.
4. The supernatural part is almost non-existant as for now.
August 27, 2017
A fragile bird
Lexus Wren is as quick to flight as her last name implies. With a father in prison and an alcoholic, abusive mom working her way through the beds in town she has learned to avoid attention. High School looks to be another nightmare year of unending taunts, slurs and spitballs until the twins arrive. As different in attitude as they are similar in appearance Griffon and Phoenix take over Lexus's life. They are the 1st people to see, or care, that the fragile bird doesn't have food in the house. The 1st to care that her clothes are due to lack of money more than lack of style. But, while they each try to protect and provide for Lexus as much as their 16 year old selves can they both want to be the one to hear her say "I love you".
Yes, Lexus is a timid, mousy, nail biting wallflower. She has a few moments where she starts to show spirit, though. So, while she may grow into a powerful character, she still has some developing to do. But, an occurrence with one of her mother's boyfriends winds up providing her a chance escape the tragic home life she's accustomed to. She also meets a new character at the end of the book that will probably feature more in the next. This bird is about to grow wings.
Lexus Wren is as quick to flight as her last name implies. With a father in prison and an alcoholic, abusive mom working her way through the beds in town she has learned to avoid attention. High School looks to be another nightmare year of unending taunts, slurs and spitballs until the twins arrive. As different in attitude as they are similar in appearance Griffon and Phoenix take over Lexus's life. They are the 1st people to see, or care, that the fragile bird doesn't have food in the house. The 1st to care that her clothes are due to lack of money more than lack of style. But, while they each try to protect and provide for Lexus as much as their 16 year old selves can they both want to be the one to hear her say "I love you".
Yes, Lexus is a timid, mousy, nail biting wallflower. She has a few moments where she starts to show spirit, though. So, while she may grow into a powerful character, she still has some developing to do. But, an occurrence with one of her mother's boyfriends winds up providing her a chance escape the tragic home life she's accustomed to. She also meets a new character at the end of the book that will probably feature more in the next. This bird is about to grow wings.
November 22, 2018
Lexus is having a hard time in her life. Her father's in prison, her mother is a horrible person who ignores her for the most part, and the other part is mean to her. And two new boys just started school and she can't stay away from them. Worse, they are twins, and she feels a real electric spark between them both.
As Lexus tries to deal with her feelings, home issues, and more things start heating up in her life, and she knows things will never be the same ever again.
I fell in love with Lexus. She's a wonderful character, and I adored her. I love her the boys brought out the real her, and how she was changing throughout the story. I also adored the boys as well. And I'm super excited about how this series will turn out.
This one does end in a crazy cliffhanger though, and it seemed to go by way to quickly because it was so good! I look forward to more now.
As Lexus tries to deal with her feelings, home issues, and more things start heating up in her life, and she knows things will never be the same ever again.
I fell in love with Lexus. She's a wonderful character, and I adored her. I love her the boys brought out the real her, and how she was changing throughout the story. I also adored the boys as well. And I'm super excited about how this series will turn out.
This one does end in a crazy cliffhanger though, and it seemed to go by way to quickly because it was so good! I look forward to more now.
April 30, 2017
Really great!
I really enjoyed this book! The MC didn't act like any 15 yr old I've ever met, so she was easily relatable. Pretty good book all around.
I really enjoyed this book! The MC didn't act like any 15 yr old I've ever met, so she was easily relatable. Pretty good book all around.
July 21, 2017
It was okay for a first book. Hopefully the second book will make things a bit less confusing.
August 5, 2017
A nice change for a fantasy book
I've read hundreds of books and have never read one like this. It was a breath of fresh air to have new characters and story lines! Loved it!
I've read hundreds of books and have never read one like this. It was a breath of fresh air to have new characters and story lines! Loved it!
November 10, 2019
Title: Flightless Bird
Author: Kellie McAllen
Publisher: Lounge Chair Literature
ISBN: B06XR8BDSH
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Flightless-Bir...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Caged 1
They're powerless without her; she's powerless to resist.
The list of reasons why Lexus Wren is the last girl any guy would be interested in is mercilessly long:
Her dad’s in prison for murder, her mom drowns her sorrows every night at Dave’s Dive, and Lexus is just trying to survive the cruelties of high school as a painfully shy bookworm with a bad wardrobe and a collection of nervous habits. Never in a million years did Lexus expect to draw the eyes of two hunky transfer students, Phoenix and Griffin Easton.
The troubled brothers are haunted by their own demons and don’t seem bothered by Lexus’ tarnished reputation. They’re too busy trying to figure out why touching her makes them feel like electricity is frying their insides and why they're compelled to obey her every command.
You’d think having two hot guys vying for her would improve her reputation, but the bullying at home and school only gets worse. When Lexus’ problems reach a critical tipping point, the boys are drawn to protect her, and the truth about their powerful connection is revealed in an explosive confrontation that will astound them all..
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Lexus was treated like the town trash by everyone in school. It wasn’t her fault her Dad was doing time or her drunken mother picked up men and brought them home on a regular basis. Between trying to stay under the radar, not having enough to eat, dressing in whatever she could find, and being bullied constantly, Lexus’s life was difficult. That is until the day she met Phoenix and Griffin, the new boy and twins to boot. Suddenly Lexus was not alone anymore which drove the popular girls crazy. Now instead of being alone Lexus has two boys vying for her attention and standing up for her. Add to that an instant attraction to both, emotional and even more confusing electrical. Yes I mean electrical as in like sparks between them. Lexus is drawn to them in more ways than one and nothing in her past will help her deal with this.
From high school bullies, romantic entanglements, to paranormal situations that leaves the reader wondering what will happen next. I for one can’t wait to read the next book in the Caged series!
Author: Kellie McAllen
Publisher: Lounge Chair Literature
ISBN: B06XR8BDSH
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Flightless-Bir...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Caged 1
They're powerless without her; she's powerless to resist.
The list of reasons why Lexus Wren is the last girl any guy would be interested in is mercilessly long:
Her dad’s in prison for murder, her mom drowns her sorrows every night at Dave’s Dive, and Lexus is just trying to survive the cruelties of high school as a painfully shy bookworm with a bad wardrobe and a collection of nervous habits. Never in a million years did Lexus expect to draw the eyes of two hunky transfer students, Phoenix and Griffin Easton.
The troubled brothers are haunted by their own demons and don’t seem bothered by Lexus’ tarnished reputation. They’re too busy trying to figure out why touching her makes them feel like electricity is frying their insides and why they're compelled to obey her every command.
You’d think having two hot guys vying for her would improve her reputation, but the bullying at home and school only gets worse. When Lexus’ problems reach a critical tipping point, the boys are drawn to protect her, and the truth about their powerful connection is revealed in an explosive confrontation that will astound them all..
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Lexus was treated like the town trash by everyone in school. It wasn’t her fault her Dad was doing time or her drunken mother picked up men and brought them home on a regular basis. Between trying to stay under the radar, not having enough to eat, dressing in whatever she could find, and being bullied constantly, Lexus’s life was difficult. That is until the day she met Phoenix and Griffin, the new boy and twins to boot. Suddenly Lexus was not alone anymore which drove the popular girls crazy. Now instead of being alone Lexus has two boys vying for her attention and standing up for her. Add to that an instant attraction to both, emotional and even more confusing electrical. Yes I mean electrical as in like sparks between them. Lexus is drawn to them in more ways than one and nothing in her past will help her deal with this.
From high school bullies, romantic entanglements, to paranormal situations that leaves the reader wondering what will happen next. I for one can’t wait to read the next book in the Caged series!
June 3, 2019
The Caged series written by Kellie McAllen is a slow burn YA paranormal RH, although ménage is probably a better description for the first couple of books. There’s 4 in the series and I purchased the complete set on audible.
So first off I listened to about 10mins and couldn’t handle the narrator. Her voice really set me off and I was cringing when she was doing Griff and Phoenix’s POVs. I think I may have enjoyed it a lot better had I read the books rather than listening.
The characters are well developed. Our FMC Lexus comes from a disadvantaged upbringing. Her father is in prison for manslaughter and her mother is the town drunk hussy. From an early age Lexus has had to look after herself and fight her own battles given she is the schools outcast she is bullied relentlessly. That is until twins Griffin and Phoenix move to town and instantly are interested in learning more about her. Sparks fly when they’re around each other, literally, and when they find out that they are Special they find themselves embroiled in a world they never new existed.
Through the books Lexus struggles with her identity and her desire to keep both boys, it becomes worse when she develops feelings for Jackson. Whilst she is shy she has a massive sense of justice and in the last book we see her overcome some of these struggles when she takes her enemy face on.
The twins are in foster care they have been trying to find out what happened to their parents for the last 10 years but when they meet Lexus it’s the first time they have care more about someone else. But this is also the first time they have never wanted to share so for the most part Griff and Phoenix have this underlying competitiveness to impress Lexus so she will choose one over the other, they bicker and argue for most of the first book and the pressure to choose carries into the second. When they realise that their rivalry is hurting Lexus they must change and try to share. Many times I had a face palm moment because of these two (especially Phoenix). Phoenix in particular is impulsive and a bit abrasive, Griffin is calculating and this time round didn’t want to give up the one thing he wants most.
The story itself is good there are many twists and turns that kept me interested and there are so many slimy characters that you can help but hope our heroine and heroes destroy but obviously you’ll need to read to find out. Just know that by the end of the series there is a HEA.
So first off I listened to about 10mins and couldn’t handle the narrator. Her voice really set me off and I was cringing when she was doing Griff and Phoenix’s POVs. I think I may have enjoyed it a lot better had I read the books rather than listening.
The characters are well developed. Our FMC Lexus comes from a disadvantaged upbringing. Her father is in prison for manslaughter and her mother is the town drunk hussy. From an early age Lexus has had to look after herself and fight her own battles given she is the schools outcast she is bullied relentlessly. That is until twins Griffin and Phoenix move to town and instantly are interested in learning more about her. Sparks fly when they’re around each other, literally, and when they find out that they are Special they find themselves embroiled in a world they never new existed.
Through the books Lexus struggles with her identity and her desire to keep both boys, it becomes worse when she develops feelings for Jackson. Whilst she is shy she has a massive sense of justice and in the last book we see her overcome some of these struggles when she takes her enemy face on.
The twins are in foster care they have been trying to find out what happened to their parents for the last 10 years but when they meet Lexus it’s the first time they have care more about someone else. But this is also the first time they have never wanted to share so for the most part Griff and Phoenix have this underlying competitiveness to impress Lexus so she will choose one over the other, they bicker and argue for most of the first book and the pressure to choose carries into the second. When they realise that their rivalry is hurting Lexus they must change and try to share. Many times I had a face palm moment because of these two (especially Phoenix). Phoenix in particular is impulsive and a bit abrasive, Griffin is calculating and this time round didn’t want to give up the one thing he wants most.
The story itself is good there are many twists and turns that kept me interested and there are so many slimy characters that you can help but hope our heroine and heroes destroy but obviously you’ll need to read to find out. Just know that by the end of the series there is a HEA.
January 26, 2021
***SPOILERS***
Lexus lives at home with her alcoholic and abusive mother. She's bullied at school for being poor and for her mother being promiscuous. Her father is in jail. Two new boys move into town as they are staying with a new foster family. Lexus, Griffin, and Phoenix feel instantly drawn to one another. When they touch, electricity passes between them. The boys start to help Lexus come out of her shell and build her confidence. Her mother moves one of her boyfriends into the house who sexually assaults Lexus (he doesn't get too far). They come to the realization that there's a power between the three of them. Lexus can give the boys a command and they do it and always succeed.
Griffin and Phoenix's foster family agrees to allow Lexus to move in and they officially file the paperwork. The book ends when the social worker recognizes Lexus's last name. He believes her father is either a conduit or a catalyst (we don't know much more at this point). He goes to meet the foster family and realizes the special power that exists between the boys and Lexus.
This was an enjoyable, quick read. Based on the ending I was tempted to mark it a favorite but I think I'll wait to see what book 2 has in store. I was beginning to think the plot was pretty shallow because not much happened except the boys building their relationship with Lexus. But the end was fantastic. They realize the power they have and someone else knows they have it. I can't wait to see how it plays out.
Lexus lives at home with her alcoholic and abusive mother. She's bullied at school for being poor and for her mother being promiscuous. Her father is in jail. Two new boys move into town as they are staying with a new foster family. Lexus, Griffin, and Phoenix feel instantly drawn to one another. When they touch, electricity passes between them. The boys start to help Lexus come out of her shell and build her confidence. Her mother moves one of her boyfriends into the house who sexually assaults Lexus (he doesn't get too far). They come to the realization that there's a power between the three of them. Lexus can give the boys a command and they do it and always succeed.
Griffin and Phoenix's foster family agrees to allow Lexus to move in and they officially file the paperwork. The book ends when the social worker recognizes Lexus's last name. He believes her father is either a conduit or a catalyst (we don't know much more at this point). He goes to meet the foster family and realizes the special power that exists between the boys and Lexus.
This was an enjoyable, quick read. Based on the ending I was tempted to mark it a favorite but I think I'll wait to see what book 2 has in store. I was beginning to think the plot was pretty shallow because not much happened except the boys building their relationship with Lexus. But the end was fantastic. They realize the power they have and someone else knows they have it. I can't wait to see how it plays out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2017
While the story behind Lexus's home life is intriguing this novel just falls short. Her family life will make you have instant empathy for her. What a terrible way to live, in tattered clothing, no food, an abusive mom and the men she brings in & out of her life. Phoenix and Griffin have potential but the fact that they're twins and fighting over the same girl and w/ in about a week or two of knowing her are both professing their love is just far fetched. Now I realize this is a paranormal YA romance and it's supposed to be somewhat far fetched but there were multiple times I simply rolled my eyes and trudged on. At the very end of the book you actually get a glimpse of what is going on. Springing a new characer on at the very end was a bit "out there" and I'm sure its meant to be a cliff hanger. I just don't think I have the patience to finish this series. After reading the synopsis for each book and realizing this ridiculous love triangle continues..it's enough for me to stop while I'm ahead. We all enjoy a good love triangle but this one is way to over the top. One twin in the afternoon, one twin in the evening, both twins at the same dinner table vying for her....just to much. There could be more story line here and more drama and less "I don't want to hurt his feelings but then I'll hurt his feelings and he told me he loved me at lunch and now he loves me at study hall"...
July 4, 2017
Flightless Bird by Kellie McAllen is the first book from The Caged Series. I've always been a fan of Kellie's and this book is yet another one in a long list that I love from her!
Lexus is shy and withdrawn, she's always been bullied in school. Her mom is always drunk and her dad has been missing from her life for the past couple of years. She tends to keep to herself in school and doesn't have any friends. That is unless twins Phoenix and Griffin turned up in town. They are enrolled in her school too and both of them are drawn to Lexus for reasons unknown to anyone, even themselves.
Phoenix and Griffin and both good looking and look set to join the group of popular kids in school so noone knows why they would rather hang out with Lexus. Whenever there is any body contact between Lexus and either of the boys, there is always an electric shock running through them. Why was this happening? Could their attraction be so intense that it gives out electric shock?
We didn't get an explanation as to what happened even when we get to the end of the book and that just makes the reader even more eager to get to book two!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Lexus is shy and withdrawn, she's always been bullied in school. Her mom is always drunk and her dad has been missing from her life for the past couple of years. She tends to keep to herself in school and doesn't have any friends. That is unless twins Phoenix and Griffin turned up in town. They are enrolled in her school too and both of them are drawn to Lexus for reasons unknown to anyone, even themselves.
Phoenix and Griffin and both good looking and look set to join the group of popular kids in school so noone knows why they would rather hang out with Lexus. Whenever there is any body contact between Lexus and either of the boys, there is always an electric shock running through them. Why was this happening? Could their attraction be so intense that it gives out electric shock?
We didn't get an explanation as to what happened even when we get to the end of the book and that just makes the reader even more eager to get to book two!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
June 4, 2017
I love this book so, so much!
Amazing! I got wrapped up in this book from page one and couldn't put it down. I would have finished it in one sitting, but my kindle died at 84% and I was SO mad!!
The characters and plot are unique and intriguing, unlike anything I've read before. Much like Lexus, I fell in love with Griffin and Phoenix, unable to decide which one I like better. All 3 characters get their own point of view and their voices are strong and well developed, never leading to any confusion with the multiple POV's.
I can't wait to start the next book. Honestly, it's been a while since I've read something that's drawn me in this tightly and refused to let me go. I care about the characters... I need to know what happens next. On to book two!
I recommend this book to lovers of clean romance and the paranormal who are looking for something original and unique. Awesome book!
Amazing! I got wrapped up in this book from page one and couldn't put it down. I would have finished it in one sitting, but my kindle died at 84% and I was SO mad!!
The characters and plot are unique and intriguing, unlike anything I've read before. Much like Lexus, I fell in love with Griffin and Phoenix, unable to decide which one I like better. All 3 characters get their own point of view and their voices are strong and well developed, never leading to any confusion with the multiple POV's.
I can't wait to start the next book. Honestly, it's been a while since I've read something that's drawn me in this tightly and refused to let me go. I care about the characters... I need to know what happens next. On to book two!
I recommend this book to lovers of clean romance and the paranormal who are looking for something original and unique. Awesome book!
April 27, 2018
Potential
This book was ok. I hope the series has character growth planned for Lexus because there's nothing worse than reading about someone who spends all their time cowering. I wish there had been some more talk about connection in the book, the characters seem to notice eachother feel it, but nobody talks about it. And they throw around I love you (completely out the blue) like it's a new candy. I wish that had been saved for a more touching moment.
That said there I never found myself mixing up one twin with the other and I do like that none of them are perfect. The first book isn't much more than an introduction/attachment period for the main characters so I presume the next books are where the real plot starts to kick in.
I think that the series has potential, so long as there's character growth and Lexus eventually learns to stand up for herself rather than hide behind the guys.
This book was ok. I hope the series has character growth planned for Lexus because there's nothing worse than reading about someone who spends all their time cowering. I wish there had been some more talk about connection in the book, the characters seem to notice eachother feel it, but nobody talks about it. And they throw around I love you (completely out the blue) like it's a new candy. I wish that had been saved for a more touching moment.
That said there I never found myself mixing up one twin with the other and I do like that none of them are perfect. The first book isn't much more than an introduction/attachment period for the main characters so I presume the next books are where the real plot starts to kick in.
I think that the series has potential, so long as there's character growth and Lexus eventually learns to stand up for herself rather than hide behind the guys.
September 17, 2017
This is a powerful first book in what I strongly suspect is going to be a new addiction for me. Lexus, Phoenix, and Griffin Are all wonderfully drawn characters, and the emotional pain described by the author is palpable. That these three come together and work together to heal and protect is winderful. Frankly this book would be wonderful without any paranormal elements. Kellie McAllen is that good. That the paranormal aspect is there, and is well done, is all the more sweet. Yup, definitely addictive. And definitely recommended.
PS: There's a teaser chapter at the end. Some might want to wait and not read it until ready to read the next book. Not a problem for me as I'm rushing into the next book (that whole "addictive thing" at work), but fair warning to others.
PS: There's a teaser chapter at the end. Some might want to wait and not read it until ready to read the next book. Not a problem for me as I'm rushing into the next book (that whole "addictive thing" at work), but fair warning to others.
October 6, 2017
The story itself was very cliché with our shy, awkward, abused, completely friendless and bullied loner who is pretty but doesn’t know it who catches the eye of not one but two hot new guys. And of course she is a super special snowflake with powers. And I thought the paranormal elements were seriously under developed . But it was ok if you are willing to roll with these over used tropes. Apparently it is going to be a reverse harem with the h ending up with both the twins – although we haven’t reached that part yet. We currently have both boys competing for her attention and her deciding not to pick either cause she doesn’t want to lose the other. So if you like that then it is worth checking out.
October 8, 2017
Its a good start to a YA paranormal romance series. We don't get to know much in this first installment though. The story development is very slow so we only get a glimpse of what is going on with Lexus and her boys at the end of the book. That's ok i can live with that cliffhanger, its a series so will have to keep reading to find out what happens. The biggest struggle i have though is the love triangle. I hate love triangle! Maybe that's why the competition or jaleousy between the twins to win the attention of Lexus got on my nerves. That does'nt mean i wont give a shot for the second book of this series cause i want to know what happens next but the love triangle thing... argh...not.a.fan. If you also like your books in audiobooks try it the narration is good.
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