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Seer
When Clare Palmer accepts a scholarship to attend Evergreen, she thinks she's escaping her insane, estranged father, while also getting the chance to go to the school her late mother graduated from. Instead, she finds herself trapped in a scientifically-enhanced, combat-obsessed society called the Corasha who view her as a dangerous outsider.
Clare views herself as an outsider, too. Unwilling to accept the outrageous claims of those around her, she's ready to get out of Evergreen at the first opportunity, until unwanted and unstable visible abilities begin to surface, confirming she's a Seer, a biological anomaly that's both prized and guarded by the Corasha. The only person who knows about her phasing is Kade, the attractive yet infuriating mentor she's now indebted to, but trusting him comes with a price her heart might not be willing to pay.
Surrounded by dangerous secrets and hidden agendas, Clare must figure out who she can trust—and fast, because there's a war coming, and the last thing she wants is to become a weapon in the wrong hands.
Clare views herself as an outsider, too. Unwilling to accept the outrageous claims of those around her, she's ready to get out of Evergreen at the first opportunity, until unwanted and unstable visible abilities begin to surface, confirming she's a Seer, a biological anomaly that's both prized and guarded by the Corasha. The only person who knows about her phasing is Kade, the attractive yet infuriating mentor she's now indebted to, but trusting him comes with a price her heart might not be willing to pay.
Surrounded by dangerous secrets and hidden agendas, Clare must figure out who she can trust—and fast, because there's a war coming, and the last thing she wants is to become a weapon in the wrong hands.
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
Unknown Binding
First published July 18, 2017
5 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Maker
5 books58 followersUnder the Trees is Ashley Maker’s debut novel. When she’s not working on her next book, Ashley spends much of her time procrastinating on social media, relaxing with her husband and two daughters, and writing companion songs on her acoustic guitar. She has a bachelor’s degree in English, worked a short stint as a book editor, and lives in a small town in Oklahoma.
"Sway" --the first companion song to UNDER THE TREES--is available to listen to and download for free at:
ashleymaker.com
"Sway" --the first companion song to UNDER THE TREES--is available to listen to and download for free at:
ashleymaker.com
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 8, 2019
How much can a person’s life change in just 24 hours?
That is a question that 16 year old Clare Palmer surely asks herself once she finds herself swept away into a world of training and combat. After the disappearance of her mother, she lives with her ~extremely~ paranoid father, who, despite his paranoia, allows her to go to the school that her own mother apparently attended.
If the idea of special powers that no human can possess+combat training appeals to you, then you may consider checking out “Seer.” And, on top of the fact that Clare now finds herself at a school that’s more like an intense military base, she also has to deal with your everyday teenage woes — everybody spreading rumors about the new girl, and, of course, relationship drama!
On top of special secret powers and combat training, Seer is not without your typical love triangle prevalent in many YA reads. In my opinion, the love triangle trope can be good or bad depending on how the specific characters are portrayed. I usually don’t love love (ha) triangles, but I won’t immediately write a book off if there’s a love triangle, either. Again, I think it entirely depends on performance and how realistically it’s all pulled off.
The reason I bring that up is because I’m rather... impartial(?) to the trio featured in this particular read. I like Clare as a character, but I’m not sure how I feel about either Kade or Tarry. In truth, they kind of almost give me Edward/Bella/Jacob vibes. There are no vampires or werewolves in this story, but both Tarry and Kade are very much alpha males and butt heads more often than not. I won’t lie — there were some points where their possessiveness over this girl felt a little creepy, BUT I do like how the relationship drama “resolved” (because this is the first in a series, so who the hell knows how things will turn out later on) itself in the end. I won’t spoil much here, but bringing the families into play was definitely... interesting. Let’s just leave it at that.
While I wasn’t quite feeling the relationships in this particular read, one thing that I REALLY liked (besides Clare herself) is the world-building — both in terms of imagery, and in the detail of Clare’s background. In regards to Clare, I really appreciated the consistency of her mother’s disappearance and her father’s character. It’s happened in quite a few books where a missing-or-dead parent is brought up once or twice... and then never mentioned again. Clare’s pain for her “broken” family was raw and consistent throughout, and I applaud the author for keeping up with that.
As for the physical world-building, I loved the detail put into the compound where Clare stays. Everything from the school itself, to the dorms, to the jungle gym — I think the jungle gym was especially well done, and it was one of my favorite parts of the book. Ashley Maker’s world-building is fantastic, and, in my opinion, her biggest strength in this story.
Overall, I think anyone who either 1) enjoys an (admittedly) intense love triangle or 2) likes a little bit of military-style combat mixed in with their YA, should definitely check this book out! There may have been bits that I enjoyed more than others, but I can totally see the appeal, and I think it was worth the read!
That is a question that 16 year old Clare Palmer surely asks herself once she finds herself swept away into a world of training and combat. After the disappearance of her mother, she lives with her ~extremely~ paranoid father, who, despite his paranoia, allows her to go to the school that her own mother apparently attended.
If the idea of special powers that no human can possess+combat training appeals to you, then you may consider checking out “Seer.” And, on top of the fact that Clare now finds herself at a school that’s more like an intense military base, she also has to deal with your everyday teenage woes — everybody spreading rumors about the new girl, and, of course, relationship drama!
On top of special secret powers and combat training, Seer is not without your typical love triangle prevalent in many YA reads. In my opinion, the love triangle trope can be good or bad depending on how the specific characters are portrayed. I usually don’t love love (ha) triangles, but I won’t immediately write a book off if there’s a love triangle, either. Again, I think it entirely depends on performance and how realistically it’s all pulled off.
The reason I bring that up is because I’m rather... impartial(?) to the trio featured in this particular read. I like Clare as a character, but I’m not sure how I feel about either Kade or Tarry. In truth, they kind of almost give me Edward/Bella/Jacob vibes. There are no vampires or werewolves in this story, but both Tarry and Kade are very much alpha males and butt heads more often than not. I won’t lie — there were some points where their possessiveness over this girl felt a little creepy, BUT I do like how the relationship drama “resolved” (because this is the first in a series, so who the hell knows how things will turn out later on) itself in the end. I won’t spoil much here, but bringing the families into play was definitely... interesting. Let’s just leave it at that.
While I wasn’t quite feeling the relationships in this particular read, one thing that I REALLY liked (besides Clare herself) is the world-building — both in terms of imagery, and in the detail of Clare’s background. In regards to Clare, I really appreciated the consistency of her mother’s disappearance and her father’s character. It’s happened in quite a few books where a missing-or-dead parent is brought up once or twice... and then never mentioned again. Clare’s pain for her “broken” family was raw and consistent throughout, and I applaud the author for keeping up with that.
As for the physical world-building, I loved the detail put into the compound where Clare stays. Everything from the school itself, to the dorms, to the jungle gym — I think the jungle gym was especially well done, and it was one of my favorite parts of the book. Ashley Maker’s world-building is fantastic, and, in my opinion, her biggest strength in this story.
Overall, I think anyone who either 1) enjoys an (admittedly) intense love triangle or 2) likes a little bit of military-style combat mixed in with their YA, should definitely check this book out! There may have been bits that I enjoyed more than others, but I can totally see the appeal, and I think it was worth the read!
October 6, 2017
Title: Seer
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Dystopia
I am always on the look out for new paranormal books to read.. I love Dystopia. So, You can imagine my excitement to read Seer!
I Hate to say it but Nah.. this just didn't do it for me. But hold up... The reason why I didn't really like it was because it was so similar to some of the other books I've read from this genre.. Yes they can be similar but you shouldn't help but feel a sense of Deja Vu right? Everytime I read this book, it reminded me of Stacey Marie Brown's Darkness series or Karen Lynch's Relentless series. The only difference between the two... the Girl in this book...at least for now isn't so much as a bad ass as in the other two book from Brown and Lynch's book. You can't help but compare. I'm sorry!
The buildup was slow.. Clare was annoying at times... I mean come on.. If you want to go all "why? why? why?" ..Get up and do some research! break some rules! Geez!
The only saving grace for me was the end.. as in the last few chapters. Thing started to get a little interesting but then the book ended. And for that and that reason only, I look forward to seeing where this goes because this book in this series was a BIG 'EH!'
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October 10, 2017
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE AUTHOR THROUGH A GOODREADS GIVEAWAY. RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
Clare Palmer accepts the scholarship to attend Evergreen because she thinks it'll get her away from her insane, estranged father and because it's the same school that her late mother graduated from. But, when she gets there, she learns that her entire life has been a lie and she's a part of this scientifically modified, combat obsessed society called the Corasha, some of whom view her as a potentially dangerous outsider because of her mother keeping her away. The purpose of Evergreen is to train Clare and the other children in combat and using their skills.
Seer is the first book in Ashley Maker's Seer series, and the first book by this author that I've ever read. When I was offered the opportunity to read it, I found the concept interesting and really looked forward to getting to read it. Ashley definitely didn't let me down! The main character was easy to identify with and the rest of the characters were well written, as well. I liked that there wasn't anyone that was just good or just bad, they all had their own unique personalities and strengths and flaws to go along with them. I'm definitely looking forward to the second book so I can see what happens next and so I can, hopefully, get some answers to some lingering questions.
Clare Palmer accepts the scholarship to attend Evergreen because she thinks it'll get her away from her insane, estranged father and because it's the same school that her late mother graduated from. But, when she gets there, she learns that her entire life has been a lie and she's a part of this scientifically modified, combat obsessed society called the Corasha, some of whom view her as a potentially dangerous outsider because of her mother keeping her away. The purpose of Evergreen is to train Clare and the other children in combat and using their skills.
Seer is the first book in Ashley Maker's Seer series, and the first book by this author that I've ever read. When I was offered the opportunity to read it, I found the concept interesting and really looked forward to getting to read it. Ashley definitely didn't let me down! The main character was easy to identify with and the rest of the characters were well written, as well. I liked that there wasn't anyone that was just good or just bad, they all had their own unique personalities and strengths and flaws to go along with them. I'm definitely looking forward to the second book so I can see what happens next and so I can, hopefully, get some answers to some lingering questions.
July 21, 2017
This book literally has it all! Romance, adventure, humor, great characters, a deep background plot.. It’s an upper YA/NA novel, but it brings me back to my YA days in high school, and I am appreciative of that. The majority of the novel takes place in a live-in Hogwarts type of school that reminds me of the House of Night series, and I love this for that.
I have read this book in many of its drafts and I can only say that every draft up to the this point was fantastic, but this final one is beautifully perfect! I was literally on the edge of my seat reading it.
The best feature of this novel is definitely the characters. The main character, Clare is by far my favorite. Her “voice” is so refreshing, relatable and just plain funny. She’s easy to read and more importantly to identify with. The thoughts that travel through her head while everything is going on is exactly what I myself would be thinking. There’s so many times I laughed out loud while reading her inner dialogue.
Next, Kade ❤ Who is a mixture of a bad boy and nice guy character. He’s intense-that’s the best way to describe him. Especially when it comes to Clare and especially in the beginning. He becomes unlikeable late in the novel, but when more truth comes out, he slowly saves himself. Regardless, I’ll never not love him.
Most importantly, the two of them together is intense! Their romance isn’t direct and I like that. It builds, starting with some intense, longing looks while he helps her. It grows into friendship, and then later more feelings emerge. I love that because it’s REAL. It’s how real romance works—it builds up to more. And the “more” that exists in this novel isn’t too deep. I assume and hope there’s more of them in later books, but for now it’s a prelude to more with some simple romance interactions. If that makes sense.
Of course, this romance wasn’t an easy one at first. There is a sort-of love triangle. It’s more like two guys like her while she only feels friendship for one, while the other is a more intense version. Tarry (neat way of spelling Terry) is the headmaster’s son and wants his friendship with Clare to be more. And here’s where some of my favorite scenes come out! The staring matches between Tarry and Kade are so great and so funny. Clare reacts appropriately too. Says stuff like how she’s not a toy to be fought over. It’s the moments where Tarry tries to hang out with her and then there’s Kade who stares him down that is my favorite. Overall, though Tarry is that funny, easy going character, and I am interested to see where he ends up in later books.
His sister Laila is also that girly-girl sarcastic roommate we have all wanted. She reminds me of Isabelle in Cassandra Clare’s books, and that’s not an insult. Laila is kick a$$, easy going, and also quite fun to read about. I am also interested to know more about her.
Another thing about this book that really grabs me is the overall plot. While on the surface she is attending this school to train her abilities, there’s a bigger plot underneath this all. Upon finishing this book, I am left with a lot of questions about future books that I am dying to know. There’s one character in there that is a giant question mark for me. Is he a good guy or a bad guy? He seems to be major in the overall background and maybe even villainous for certain reasons that do not come out till the end. In the end, I suspect things will go well, but we’ve perceived him differently for his treatment of Clare. The idea of the Seers is pretty original. Plenty of YA books feature some sort of “fantasy” or fantasy/dystopia like creature but not one that can be so simply explained: someone who has the ability to find anyone instantly.
As all of Ashley’s other work, her writing is flawless. I am in love with how smooth it reads and the flow of this entire story that just keeps me interested from word one. It’s definitely one I will reread over and over and over and one I NEED for my bookshelf.
I have read this book in many of its drafts and I can only say that every draft up to the this point was fantastic, but this final one is beautifully perfect! I was literally on the edge of my seat reading it.
The best feature of this novel is definitely the characters. The main character, Clare is by far my favorite. Her “voice” is so refreshing, relatable and just plain funny. She’s easy to read and more importantly to identify with. The thoughts that travel through her head while everything is going on is exactly what I myself would be thinking. There’s so many times I laughed out loud while reading her inner dialogue.
Next, Kade ❤ Who is a mixture of a bad boy and nice guy character. He’s intense-that’s the best way to describe him. Especially when it comes to Clare and especially in the beginning. He becomes unlikeable late in the novel, but when more truth comes out, he slowly saves himself. Regardless, I’ll never not love him.
Most importantly, the two of them together is intense! Their romance isn’t direct and I like that. It builds, starting with some intense, longing looks while he helps her. It grows into friendship, and then later more feelings emerge. I love that because it’s REAL. It’s how real romance works—it builds up to more. And the “more” that exists in this novel isn’t too deep. I assume and hope there’s more of them in later books, but for now it’s a prelude to more with some simple romance interactions. If that makes sense.
Of course, this romance wasn’t an easy one at first. There is a sort-of love triangle. It’s more like two guys like her while she only feels friendship for one, while the other is a more intense version. Tarry (neat way of spelling Terry) is the headmaster’s son and wants his friendship with Clare to be more. And here’s where some of my favorite scenes come out! The staring matches between Tarry and Kade are so great and so funny. Clare reacts appropriately too. Says stuff like how she’s not a toy to be fought over. It’s the moments where Tarry tries to hang out with her and then there’s Kade who stares him down that is my favorite. Overall, though Tarry is that funny, easy going character, and I am interested to see where he ends up in later books.
His sister Laila is also that girly-girl sarcastic roommate we have all wanted. She reminds me of Isabelle in Cassandra Clare’s books, and that’s not an insult. Laila is kick a$$, easy going, and also quite fun to read about. I am also interested to know more about her.
Another thing about this book that really grabs me is the overall plot. While on the surface she is attending this school to train her abilities, there’s a bigger plot underneath this all. Upon finishing this book, I am left with a lot of questions about future books that I am dying to know. There’s one character in there that is a giant question mark for me. Is he a good guy or a bad guy? He seems to be major in the overall background and maybe even villainous for certain reasons that do not come out till the end. In the end, I suspect things will go well, but we’ve perceived him differently for his treatment of Clare. The idea of the Seers is pretty original. Plenty of YA books feature some sort of “fantasy” or fantasy/dystopia like creature but not one that can be so simply explained: someone who has the ability to find anyone instantly.
As all of Ashley’s other work, her writing is flawless. I am in love with how smooth it reads and the flow of this entire story that just keeps me interested from word one. It’s definitely one I will reread over and over and over and one I NEED for my bookshelf.
July 9, 2018
I received an ebook copy of this from the author and offered to review it for her! I've given this book 3.75 stars. This book follows the character of Clare, who is battling with the loss of her mother and has to live with her father who she thinks is crazy and unstable. Her life is turned upside down when she is sent to a 'private school', which turns out to be very different then what she imagines. She falls into a world of combat training, tactical skills and hidden agendas. A world she feels very isolated in. That is until she meets her friends and things start to unfold.
Like a good Paranormal romance this has all the ingredients! Good characters, a good plot line and romance. But even so this book didn't grab me fully. The reason i'm giving it 3.75 is mainly due to that fact that the characters didn't grab me as much as I really wanted them too. As well as that I wasn't invested in the romance as much as I usually am with this genre. But that is not to say it is a bad book. I did enjoy the story and there were a few plot twists which kept me interested to the very end.
I will definitely be reading the next one to see where the story goes, and hopefully the characters will unfold more in the next installment. If you enjoy this genre I would say to give it a shot. Its coming out in paperback on the 18th of July 2018.
Like a good Paranormal romance this has all the ingredients! Good characters, a good plot line and romance. But even so this book didn't grab me fully. The reason i'm giving it 3.75 is mainly due to that fact that the characters didn't grab me as much as I really wanted them too. As well as that I wasn't invested in the romance as much as I usually am with this genre. But that is not to say it is a bad book. I did enjoy the story and there were a few plot twists which kept me interested to the very end.
I will definitely be reading the next one to see where the story goes, and hopefully the characters will unfold more in the next installment. If you enjoy this genre I would say to give it a shot. Its coming out in paperback on the 18th of July 2018.
August 1, 2019
Clare Palmer has lost her mother and is living with her paranoid, alcoholic father. After sneaking out one too many times, Clare’s father sends a boarding school for gifted children...or so she thinks. Soon she finds out that her father may not have been so paranoid after all.
It has been a rare thing, lately, for me to really get into a book at the very beginning, and not feel confused by what's happening. This book had me from the start and it never let up. The pacing was just right for me, didn’t feel rushed but also didn’t lag horribly. The world-building was excellent, just enough for what the story needed but you can tell more will be added as the story builds and as Clare finds out the truth about the world she did not know. The characters are well written and they react the way most people would if they were to find themselves in a similar situation. Overall find Ashley Maker to be an excellent writer. The book was easy to read and flowed very well but the writing didn’t feel juvenile and didn’t have a lot of the language mistakes that seem to be very prevalent in many of the books I’ve read lately..
I truly can not wait to see where this story goes next, I’m hooked!
*I received a copy of this book for review purposes.
It has been a rare thing, lately, for me to really get into a book at the very beginning, and not feel confused by what's happening. This book had me from the start and it never let up. The pacing was just right for me, didn’t feel rushed but also didn’t lag horribly. The world-building was excellent, just enough for what the story needed but you can tell more will be added as the story builds and as Clare finds out the truth about the world she did not know. The characters are well written and they react the way most people would if they were to find themselves in a similar situation. Overall find Ashley Maker to be an excellent writer. The book was easy to read and flowed very well but the writing didn’t feel juvenile and didn’t have a lot of the language mistakes that seem to be very prevalent in many of the books I’ve read lately..
I truly can not wait to see where this story goes next, I’m hooked!
*I received a copy of this book for review purposes.
July 20, 2017
Finally. :-)
July 26, 2017
I voluntarily read this book and wanted to leave this review. The story is mainly based in a secret school/training camp and we see our main character, Clare, trying to fit in with others, make friends and learn how to fight. Of course there are boy issues, in that there are two hot ones. Throughout the book we see how Clare's relationship develops with both of them and where her heart eventually takes her. The book for me initially was quite slow to get going, mainly because the information given to the main character about why she was taken to the school and what her powers are, is not forth coming. The book is written in first person and i just wanted Clare to be more forceful, about getting that info' from the people running the school, and the other students. We got most if not all the information later in the book. I liked the characters in the book, they are well written and it was an enjoyable read. I will look forward to reading the next book in the series.
July 9, 2017
Great read with the character relationships similar to Divergent and Hunger Games. Not much action in the beginning as Clare is introduced into the compound. It was basically getting to know Clare and the others around her as well as what the compound entailed. I liked that Clare didn't automatically come into her powers and she never really uses them much in this book. Towards the end the action picked up and I was thrown for a little loop as to who was the "bad guy". Clare and Kade's relationship was built upon and not instant and had some bumps along the way. Can't wait for #2 to see where Kade and Clare end up. I received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2018
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author and my friend Mary Ellen. Thanks! All opinions are my own!
Rating: 3.5/5
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance/Dystopian/Science-Fiction
Recommended Age: 15+ (romance scenes and violence)
Pages: 344
Author Website
Amazon Link
Synopsis: When Clare Palmer accepts a scholarship to attend Evergreen, she thinks she's escaping her insane, estranged father, while also getting the chance to go to the school her late mother graduated from. Instead, she finds herself trapped in a scientifically-enhanced, combat-obsessed society called the Corasha who view her as a dangerous outsider.
Clare views herself as an outsider, too. Unwilling to accept the outrageous claims of those around her, she's ready to get out of Evergreen at the first opportunity, until unwanted and unstable visible abilities begin to surface, confirming she's a Seer, a biological anomaly that's both prized and guarded by the Corasha. The only person who knows about her phasing is Kade, the attractive yet infuriating mentor she's now indebted to, but trusting him comes with a price her heart might not be willing to pay.
Surrounded by dangerous secrets and hidden agendas, Clare must figure out who she can trust—and fast, because there's a war coming, and the last thing she wants is to become a weapon in the wrong hands.
Oh wow! I don’t think I’ve read a paranormal romance in quite a long time (and I’m not sure if this qualifies as a paranormal romance or if it’s more scifi-y but I’m gonna go with it)… probably since Twilight? Anyways, I went into this kinda blind and I felt for my first trip back into the genre I thought it was really well done. I’m really into conspiracy theories and plots within plots so this one definitely grabbed my attention. I also really enjoyed the world building aspect and the character development.
However, I did feel that the book had uneven pacing. It was fast in some parts and then tremendously slow in others. The main character was a tad annoying for me and she really didn’t seem to want to figure out what was happening on her own. While this book was very entertaining for me generally, I felt that Clare’s personality really put me off this novel.
Verdict: Unique and amazing story within a story that deserves to be read.
Rating: 3.5/5
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance/Dystopian/Science-Fiction
Recommended Age: 15+ (romance scenes and violence)
Pages: 344
Author Website
Amazon Link
Synopsis: When Clare Palmer accepts a scholarship to attend Evergreen, she thinks she's escaping her insane, estranged father, while also getting the chance to go to the school her late mother graduated from. Instead, she finds herself trapped in a scientifically-enhanced, combat-obsessed society called the Corasha who view her as a dangerous outsider.
Clare views herself as an outsider, too. Unwilling to accept the outrageous claims of those around her, she's ready to get out of Evergreen at the first opportunity, until unwanted and unstable visible abilities begin to surface, confirming she's a Seer, a biological anomaly that's both prized and guarded by the Corasha. The only person who knows about her phasing is Kade, the attractive yet infuriating mentor she's now indebted to, but trusting him comes with a price her heart might not be willing to pay.
Surrounded by dangerous secrets and hidden agendas, Clare must figure out who she can trust—and fast, because there's a war coming, and the last thing she wants is to become a weapon in the wrong hands.
Oh wow! I don’t think I’ve read a paranormal romance in quite a long time (and I’m not sure if this qualifies as a paranormal romance or if it’s more scifi-y but I’m gonna go with it)… probably since Twilight? Anyways, I went into this kinda blind and I felt for my first trip back into the genre I thought it was really well done. I’m really into conspiracy theories and plots within plots so this one definitely grabbed my attention. I also really enjoyed the world building aspect and the character development.
However, I did feel that the book had uneven pacing. It was fast in some parts and then tremendously slow in others. The main character was a tad annoying for me and she really didn’t seem to want to figure out what was happening on her own. While this book was very entertaining for me generally, I felt that Clare’s personality really put me off this novel.
Verdict: Unique and amazing story within a story that deserves to be read.
July 13, 2018
When Clare loses her mother she is forced to live with her unstable father who she doesn't even know. That is until two men show up at her house and offer her a scholarship to attend Evergreen, a private school that is nothing like she imagined it would be. The students are trained in head to head combat, and have special abilities that Clare soon starts to develope. Clare learns that she is part of a elite group of people called Corasha. She feels like she is a outcast in the school, the only person she is semi comfortable with is the her handsome mentor, Kade. There is still a lot of things that Clare doesn't know, like who she can trust when everyone around her is being so elusive.
The author did a wonderful job of building this magical world into our modern one. I really liked the story line, it had a little of everything. Although Clare wasn't the toughest female character I've read about, I feel it made her more relatable. She was just a regular girl thrust into this world she never even knew about. I do wish she would have pursued more answers about everything going on. I feel there was something missing, but I'm sure we will get more insight into the Corasha background in book two.
I really loved the romance that unravelled between Clare and Kade. They had some ups and downs, but that's what makes it perfect because relationships aren't easy. The ending was filled with action and a plot twist I didn't see coming. From the moment I started reading this book I couldn't put it down. We were left with a cliffhanger, so naturally I can't wait till the second book comes out.
The author did a wonderful job of building this magical world into our modern one. I really liked the story line, it had a little of everything. Although Clare wasn't the toughest female character I've read about, I feel it made her more relatable. She was just a regular girl thrust into this world she never even knew about. I do wish she would have pursued more answers about everything going on. I feel there was something missing, but I'm sure we will get more insight into the Corasha background in book two.
I really loved the romance that unravelled between Clare and Kade. They had some ups and downs, but that's what makes it perfect because relationships aren't easy. The ending was filled with action and a plot twist I didn't see coming. From the moment I started reading this book I couldn't put it down. We were left with a cliffhanger, so naturally I can't wait till the second book comes out.
July 24, 2017
Sixteen year-old Clare Palmer thinks she is escaping a crazy, paranoid father by attending an exclusive boarding school. But she really begins to question her decision when she finds herself surrounded by students and teachers who think it normal to have courses in Krav Maga-like fighting and train as if they would be competing in American Ninja Warrior. If that wasn’t enough, Clare also learns that she could develop rare powers that allow her to see things that others cannot in unbelievable ways.
I really enjoyed Maker’s world building in Seer. While set in what seems like modern day, she creates a world inside a world, much like J. K. Rowling—only Maker’s world has the Corasha rather than wizards. I also like the 1st person POV from Clare’s perspective. It is through her eyes that you learn about this alternate world, and you do so at the same pace that she does.
At the same time, however, I, in my impatience, wanted to know more background about this world. I imagine, though, more will be revealed in the second book of the series. I also felt Tarry, one of the potential love interests, needed more depth. I want to know more about what makes him tick.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading Seer. I look forward to learning more about the Corasha and see how Clare adjusts to and changes her environment as she learns more about herself and her family’s history.
Those who are fans of Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy series or the TV show Heroes might enjoying reading this book.
I really enjoyed Maker’s world building in Seer. While set in what seems like modern day, she creates a world inside a world, much like J. K. Rowling—only Maker’s world has the Corasha rather than wizards. I also like the 1st person POV from Clare’s perspective. It is through her eyes that you learn about this alternate world, and you do so at the same pace that she does.
At the same time, however, I, in my impatience, wanted to know more background about this world. I imagine, though, more will be revealed in the second book of the series. I also felt Tarry, one of the potential love interests, needed more depth. I want to know more about what makes him tick.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading Seer. I look forward to learning more about the Corasha and see how Clare adjusts to and changes her environment as she learns more about herself and her family’s history.
Those who are fans of Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy series or the TV show Heroes might enjoying reading this book.
June 30, 2018
"First, the serum is ineffective on adults. Second, the two strains injected produced two different results. And then there's the third, an anomaly within the anomaly. The Seer."
This is an fantasy adventure book perfect for 11+, especially those that love Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children and Divergent. There are some parts that I enjoyed reading:
1. The writing style (written perfectly for a middle-grade)
2. The boarding school atmosphere (I'm a sucker for boarding school books!)
3. The unique fight scenes (My favorite being one during training with office supplies!)
However, there are a few things that grated on me:
1. The amount of figurative language (The first third of the book averages a metaphor, simile, or idiom twice a page. While it felt redundant, this is the perfect style for middle-grade novel.)
2. The lack of world-building (I am still a little confused about the history/conflict of Rogues and Coras. I could have used a chapter somewhere in the book explaining this in more depth.)
3. Going along with the #2 (and without giving away too much), I don't really understand the conflict at the climax of this novel. Basically, the motivations of the characters aren't as clear as moving the plot along.
Honestly, I don't have children, but I do have 7-8th grade students, and I know they would love this. For this reason, I am going to stick to the 3 stars. While I personally thought this was an ok book, I know plenty more who would adore this!
This is an fantasy adventure book perfect for 11+, especially those that love Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children and Divergent. There are some parts that I enjoyed reading:
1. The writing style (written perfectly for a middle-grade)
2. The boarding school atmosphere (I'm a sucker for boarding school books!)
3. The unique fight scenes (My favorite being one during training with office supplies!)
However, there are a few things that grated on me:
1. The amount of figurative language (The first third of the book averages a metaphor, simile, or idiom twice a page. While it felt redundant, this is the perfect style for middle-grade novel.)
2. The lack of world-building (I am still a little confused about the history/conflict of Rogues and Coras. I could have used a chapter somewhere in the book explaining this in more depth.)
3. Going along with the #2 (and without giving away too much), I don't really understand the conflict at the climax of this novel. Basically, the motivations of the characters aren't as clear as moving the plot along.
Honestly, I don't have children, but I do have 7-8th grade students, and I know they would love this. For this reason, I am going to stick to the 3 stars. While I personally thought this was an ok book, I know plenty more who would adore this!
July 16, 2018
I am not typically an ebook reader and this was my first, but boy did I make it count. I was so enthralled with this book from page one.
I am a huge fan of dystopian and paranormal romance so this book was essentially perfect for me! The story is interesting. It was fast paced and difficult to put down. The world building was descriptive without dragging on. It was definitely a wild ride with twists and turns that kept me interested throughout.
The characters were relatable and humorous. I really loved Clare and all her sass. I only wish she cried a little less and hope she embraces her badassery in future books. I enjoyed the romance. Kade is definitely a dreamboat. I don’t really care for love triangles so I was relieved when the author went in a different direction. However, I didn’t care for the childish arguing between Clare’s potential suitors especially since in all other ways Kade seems to be above all that. I hope Kade and Clare’s relationship grows and they get past trust issues that seem to occur way too frequently with them.
I will most certainly be following this series and the author. I can’t wait to explore this story and world further. I look forward to the real ease of the paperback version July 18, 2018.
I am a huge fan of dystopian and paranormal romance so this book was essentially perfect for me! The story is interesting. It was fast paced and difficult to put down. The world building was descriptive without dragging on. It was definitely a wild ride with twists and turns that kept me interested throughout.
The characters were relatable and humorous. I really loved Clare and all her sass. I only wish she cried a little less and hope she embraces her badassery in future books. I enjoyed the romance. Kade is definitely a dreamboat. I don’t really care for love triangles so I was relieved when the author went in a different direction. However, I didn’t care for the childish arguing between Clare’s potential suitors especially since in all other ways Kade seems to be above all that. I hope Kade and Clare’s relationship grows and they get past trust issues that seem to occur way too frequently with them.
I will most certainly be following this series and the author. I can’t wait to explore this story and world further. I look forward to the real ease of the paperback version July 18, 2018.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Seer as I'm a complete and utter sucket for dystopian novels. I really enjoyed exploring Claire's character as well as learning about how the Seers came to be. It was a very interesting take on some actual history!
I also found myself shipping Claire and Kade incredibly hard! I need to know how they'll end up in the second book! Preferably as soon as possible!
The twist toward the end caught me off guard and I'm still trying to get my brain to figure out if there were any clues at all leading up to where it switched. I would love to get some more background on that part!
I also found myself shipping Claire and Kade incredibly hard! I need to know how they'll end up in the second book! Preferably as soon as possible!
The twist toward the end caught me off guard and I'm still trying to get my brain to figure out if there were any clues at all leading up to where it switched. I would love to get some more background on that part!
July 10, 2017
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I started and finished this book in a day. it was quite fast paced and an easy read.
The main character, Clare, had a lot on her plate the entire book and you could tell. She had a hard time trusting most and almost no one trusted her.
I still know next to nothing about these supposed "bad guys", the same as Clare. I hope the author elaborates more on them in book two. Which I'm really looking forward to!
All in all it was a pretty good read and now I have to wait for book 2 D:
I started and finished this book in a day. it was quite fast paced and an easy read.
The main character, Clare, had a lot on her plate the entire book and you could tell. She had a hard time trusting most and almost no one trusted her.
I still know next to nothing about these supposed "bad guys", the same as Clare. I hope the author elaborates more on them in book two. Which I'm really looking forward to!
All in all it was a pretty good read and now I have to wait for book 2 D:
October 12, 2017
I really liked this book. The writing style and the relationships between certain characters draw you in. Clare has lost her mother and is having trouble connecting with her father when she is offered a chance to go to Evergreen. Claire soon realizes that life and Evergreen are not what she expected. I liked the premise but there is a point in the story where I thought things started to unravel a bit, which left me with questions. There is a lot thrown at you in the end but I hope it sets the reader up for the next book. I do feel that because the reader knows essentially, what Claire knows that you do not get a full sense of the contention between the Corasha and the Rogues or what being a Seer fully means. I liked Claire, Kade and the other secondary characters for the most part, although I am not sure that I found any character wholly likable. Also, she is only sixteen so I had an issue with the age difference.
August 16, 2019
3.75 Stars Rounded to 4.
What I liked:
-Paranormal Romance
-Special powers
-Good amount of action & combat scenes
-Characters were fine
What I Wasn't the Biggest Fan Of:
-Needs more characterization
-Slow beginning
-The Romance wasn't very gripping
A good book for those who love paranormal romance books with action and MC's who have special abilities.
Am planning to read the sequel(s).
What I liked:
-Paranormal Romance
-Special powers
-Good amount of action & combat scenes
-Characters were fine
What I Wasn't the Biggest Fan Of:
-Needs more characterization
-Slow beginning
-The Romance wasn't very gripping
A good book for those who love paranormal romance books with action and MC's who have special abilities.
Am planning to read the sequel(s).
August 3, 2019
When I first read the details about this book, I thought...hmm, this might be cool. I. Was. So. Wrong! It was outstanding! I couldn't put it down, it has great world building, the characters are fantastic and the storyline is incredible!
Action packed, witty, emotional and an edge of your seat thrilling story that grabs your attention from the very beginning!
Action packed, witty, emotional and an edge of your seat thrilling story that grabs your attention from the very beginning!
July 20, 2017
This story is what I would classify as urban scifi. It is exciting with a quick pace, relatable and likeable characters and a plot which keeps you turning pages. The ending leaves you hanging but not desperately-just enough to want to keep the story going. I loved it and can't wait for boo 2!
July 17, 2018
Seer by Ashley Maker is a highly enjoyable YA urban sci-fi/fantasy! The setting was awesome—I mean who wouldn’t love a boarding school for gifted teenagers set in the wilderness of Colorado? The characters were well-developed and relatable. There were moments of laugh-out-loud humor, cheesy (in the best way possible) teenage romance, intense action, betrayal, and mystery. I would have liked a bit more insight on the rivalry between the two warring factions but I’m hoping that comes into play in the next book, which I am eager to read. Definitely recommend!
July 21, 2017
a great fantasy
This story was great and the characters are wonderful. I look forward to the next book. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a great fantasy.
This story was great and the characters are wonderful. I look forward to the next book. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a great fantasy.
March 3, 2022
I actually have the pleasure of knowing Ashley before I knew she published books. This book was amazing, and I hope she writes book 2 soon!
October 7, 2017
SEER by Ashley Maker is an amazing book filled with action, romance, betrayal, and butt-kicking! Clare Palmer only wanted to escape a home with her crazy father, but she ends up in an even crazier situation—her new school. There, she learns about this world she never knew and the abilities she starts to develop. It’s thrilling to see Clare navigate this new life and learn about herself and her new powers. It’s also exciting to watch her develop a friendship and possible relationship with Kade (who I love!). I love seeing them together, whether it’s running, training, or kicking some butt. I can’t wait for the sequel because THAT ENDING! I need to know what happens next!
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