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Shadow State
What Brynn Caldwell can’t remember might get her killed.
Brynn is a promising science student recovering from a bad relationship that sent her spiraling into depression. But as she puts the pieces of her life back together, a few don’t fit.
Brynn is uncovering memories of being abducted and possibly brainwashed. It’s all connected to a drug that might be an ultimate weapon: a tool to control people’s memories. Now, to stop a possible terrorist attack, Brynn has to find out what she’s been forced to forget—and what side she’s really on.
Brynn is a promising science student recovering from a bad relationship that sent her spiraling into depression. But as she puts the pieces of her life back together, a few don’t fit.
Brynn is uncovering memories of being abducted and possibly brainwashed. It’s all connected to a drug that might be an ultimate weapon: a tool to control people’s memories. Now, to stop a possible terrorist attack, Brynn has to find out what she’s been forced to forget—and what side she’s really on.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published July 3, 2018
5 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 15, 2019
The main reason I liked this book was because I didn’t see the twist coming, but now it’s been three months since I read it and I barely remember the twist.
Man, that cute lil bit I do where I read something and then I don’t review it for months is getting kinda old.
Oh, it was never cute? It’s been old all along? Got it. Fair.
Most of this was pretty boring, honestly. I’d say very high school, except these characters literally never go to class. It follows Brynn, this girl who used to be all scholarly and Ivy League and whatnot, but then got involved in a toxic relationship, the end of which sent her into a spiraling depression from which she is just emerging. With the help of a new relationship, obviously, because this is YA and that is how we heal. Via getting it on with cute guys.
Anyway.
Brynn is recovering memories of, like, an abduction. Other mysterious/bad stuff. At the same time her mom is launching a possibly-related PTSD medication.
If it sounds mildly boring, it’s because, as mentioned, it is.
So we join Brynn and Dex (new cute boyfriend/healer of mental woes) as they attempt to track down Brynn’s memories and solve the case blah blah blah. But the twist! It’s a little sudden and I could do with more explanation, but let me tell ya - I did not see it coming.
Bottom line: A pretty vanilla YA thriller - but at least it’s creative!!
Thanks to Macmillan/Imprint for the ARC.
Man, that cute lil bit I do where I read something and then I don’t review it for months is getting kinda old.
Oh, it was never cute? It’s been old all along? Got it. Fair.
Most of this was pretty boring, honestly. I’d say very high school, except these characters literally never go to class. It follows Brynn, this girl who used to be all scholarly and Ivy League and whatnot, but then got involved in a toxic relationship, the end of which sent her into a spiraling depression from which she is just emerging. With the help of a new relationship, obviously, because this is YA and that is how we heal. Via getting it on with cute guys.
Anyway.
Brynn is recovering memories of, like, an abduction. Other mysterious/bad stuff. At the same time her mom is launching a possibly-related PTSD medication.
If it sounds mildly boring, it’s because, as mentioned, it is.
So we join Brynn and Dex (new cute boyfriend/healer of mental woes) as they attempt to track down Brynn’s memories and solve the case blah blah blah. But the twist! It’s a little sudden and I could do with more explanation, but let me tell ya - I did not see it coming.
Bottom line: A pretty vanilla YA thriller - but at least it’s creative!!
Thanks to Macmillan/Imprint for the ARC.
October 15, 2025
The ending was chaotic, confusing, and ultimately unsatisfying. 😮💨
May 19, 2018
Brynn spent the previous summer swamped with depression after ending a toxic relationship with her manipulative ex-boyfriend Jacob. Now she is with sweet and charming Dex and her life seems to be getting back to normal until she recovers some frightening memories from the past. She works with Dex to figure out the mystery of her missing memories that somehow relate to the drug Cortexia, an antidepressant that treats PTSD that her mom created and is about to launch.
I don't want to include any spoilers, but I knew something was up at the beginning regarding a specific character since they acted shady. I still had more questions at the end, and despite a lot of reviewers not liking it (I definitely understand why), I didn't have a problem with it since justice was going to be served. This was suspenseful until the final page and I'm glad I had the chance to read it.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC.
I don't want to include any spoilers, but I knew something was up at the beginning regarding a specific character since they acted shady. I still had more questions at the end, and despite a lot of reviewers not liking it (I definitely understand why), I didn't have a problem with it since justice was going to be served. This was suspenseful until the final page and I'm glad I had the chance to read it.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC.
August 26, 2018
For those of us who've suffered through dramatic break-ups with our romantic partners or gone through extremely painful times, it might be wonderful to have those memories erased in order to promote the healing process. But what if important things were erased, and you kept making the same mistakes? The plot for this novel is promising. Brynn Caldwell, the daughter of a musician and a scientist, is on the fast track to success. She's smart and gets good grades while also winning academic competitions. But a painful break-up with her boyfriend Jacob led to bouts of depression, and she received treatment for that depression, and has moved on. Now, though, she's starting to remember things that make no sense, and as she investigates further, she learns of her own involvement with a planned act of terrorism involving Cortexia, the forgetting drug that her mother has developed and used to great success with those in the military suffering from PTSD. As Brynn and her boyfriend Dex work to solve the mystery, they encounter various twists and turns, and Brynn learns that she cannot trust anyone, even herself. The book was fast-paced and kept me guessing about the identity of the betrayer although after I finished it, I was able to recognize the many hints or sour notes that should have warned me what was going on. There were a few moments that didn't quite ring true, but I enjoyed the book, especially when thinking about how a drug such as this one could be used if it fell into the wrong hands.
November 9, 2019
Shadow State by Elyse Brayden, 277 pages. Imprint (Macmillan Publishing Group), 2018. $17.99
Language: R (37 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG13
BUYING ADVISORY: HS – OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
After falling into and working to get out of her depression in the past year, Brynn is disappointed that she still isn’t back to her normal self. Anxiety and unfamiliar memories make Brynn worry that her depression is coming back—but the real reason behind her odd experiences is so much worse and has consequences so much bigger than Brynn.
Brayden hooked me within the first ten pages, which helped me slog through what felt like a lot of background information before returning to Brynn’s intriguing situation. Throughout the book, I was as disoriented and anxious as Brynn, a full participant in her reality. The book was written well enough to help me, as the reader, become suspicious of the right person eventually, but I’m disappointed that Brayden did not give me enough information to figure out the mystery by myself. I’m also not a fan of the ambiguous ending, but the story was entertaining to read overall.
Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2019...
Language: R (37 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG13
BUYING ADVISORY: HS – OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
After falling into and working to get out of her depression in the past year, Brynn is disappointed that she still isn’t back to her normal self. Anxiety and unfamiliar memories make Brynn worry that her depression is coming back—but the real reason behind her odd experiences is so much worse and has consequences so much bigger than Brynn.
Brayden hooked me within the first ten pages, which helped me slog through what felt like a lot of background information before returning to Brynn’s intriguing situation. Throughout the book, I was as disoriented and anxious as Brynn, a full participant in her reality. The book was written well enough to help me, as the reader, become suspicious of the right person eventually, but I’m disappointed that Brayden did not give me enough information to figure out the mystery by myself. I’m also not a fan of the ambiguous ending, but the story was entertaining to read overall.
Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2019...
March 19, 2020
This book was a huge disappointment. I didn’t like the ending at all. The story had so much potential that I was surprised that the author didn’t do a better job with the storyline. The idea that the main character had a mother that invented a drug to help people get over PTSD had so much promise.
It was very disjointed and the romance was hard to follow. The supporting characters were not fleshed out enough. I wanted to know more about her parents and the best friend she wasn’t talking to any more. Even so, the memory loss angle kept me interested and I finished the book. I don’t recommend it.
It was very disjointed and the romance was hard to follow. The supporting characters were not fleshed out enough. I wanted to know more about her parents and the best friend she wasn’t talking to any more. Even so, the memory loss angle kept me interested and I finished the book. I don’t recommend it.
May 14, 2018
I voluntarily read and reviewed "Shadow State." All thoughts and opinions are my own.
First Thoughts:
The ending sucked, just an fyi. But up until the ending, the book was really good. I enjoyed the plot (mostly), I enjoyed the concept and the writing. The story had me hooked till the very end. Why oh why must the ending conclude that way?! Never read anything by this author so had no idea what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised with the attention to detail and the information that was provided to make this world possible...so with that said, let's continue...
Goodreads Summary:
What Brynn Caldwell can't remember might get her killed.
Brynn is a promising science student recovering from a bad relationship that sent her spiraling into a depression. But as she puts the pieces of her life back together, a few don't fit.
Brynn is uncovering memories of being abducted and possibly brainwashed. It's all connected to a drug that might be an ultimate weapon: a tool to control people's memories. Now, to stop a possible terrorist attack, Brynn has to find out what she's been forced to forget---and what side she's really on.
Plot:
Like I mentioned above the plot was pretty good, very fast and had some mystery. The problem I had was some of the plot was predictable and the ending was frustrating and lacked a good conclusion. I don't want to give anything away but I felt the ending left a lot of questions unanswered and the reader yearning for a better outcome. Also, the plot had a lot of information that would need to be researched and I think the author did a good job on that. Though I'm not sure if it was accurate but it seemed real all the same.It was creative in some ways too, like the science behind the mystery drug that's talked about throughout the whole book. This is a short book compared to some books nowadays, so it makes it a fast read, can be read in one or two sittings. So if you're looking for a quick read this is the book for you. I wish some of the parts weren't predictable; would've made the book more interesting to read. But maybe to some this story would come as a total surprise so I wouldn't knock it for that one aspect alone.
Romance:
There was romance in this book but not one I particularly care for. It seemed odd and forced so I was not a fan. I think this book would've been better without the romance but in the end I knew why it was needed, it did add to the plot. Without the romance things in this book would not have been possible. But I didn't like it, so if you're a romance reader this is not a book for you.
Characters:
Brynn was an okay character. She was fun to get to know and understand. Her memories were tampered with so it was hard to get to know her that well. But the parts where she was lucid she had a lot of deep emotions and thoughts. Some of the decisions she made I would have done differently but that's what makes her unique and real. She had her own thought processes and personality. Her mother was stiff and cold and I would hate to have her as my own mother. Dex was really the main mystery in this book. He was just as mysterious as the drug itself. I couldn't always get a good grasp on him so I didn't always know what to expect from him. All the other characters were good and were needed to add to the story-line so they were worth it. But like I mentioned earlier I wish I could've gotten a better grasp on Brynn (main protagonist). But maybe she was meant to appear that way; maybe that was the authors's intention all along.
Transformation of the Character:
This is a tricky part of the book to tackle. Yes in a way the Brynn did transform but some areas she didn't. It was the whole memories being contaminated that made this a tricky area to discuss. And I cant' really discuss much more without giving the story away so you'll just have to read it yourself.
Description:
This was one area of the book that I really enjoyed. The description of Brynn's world and her thoughts and feelings really added some mystery to the story. Though the beginning chapter I think had too much description. I think it could've been cut down some and still get the point across. But as the story progressed it did get better. Brynn's emotions and thoughts were well described and allowed the reader to get more attached to her when she was expressing them. The description of the scenery and world was good also. We got to really picture what was happening and see the foreshadowing in some places.
Style:
This was written in one POV and in third person. Being written in only Brynn's point of view only allowed the reader to see the world in one perspective. It left most of what was going on a mystery (well to some readers). I will admit there were some surprises and twists I didn't guess or see coming. So yes it's not completely predictable. Being written in third person allowed the reader to be a little detached from Brynn and see a little more of the world just not as much as if it were in more than one point of view. The author's writing was excellent, I would totally read more by this author, just in hopes the ending to her next book would be more fulfilling and satisfying.
Quote of the Book:
Can't do a direct quotation because this book isn't out yet and the publisher asked the reader to not to put any quotation from the book. But just know the writing is excellent and fun to read.
Last Thoughts:
Though I didn't always enjoy all parts of this book; it was excellent writing. It enticed the readers and allowed them to explore a world not of their own. Don't know if I would recommend anyone to read this because of the ending; but I would recommend keeping an eye on this author. Read whatever else she writes; perhaps the ending will be much better. But if you're looking for good writing this book has that. I leave it up to you as a reader to make the decision to read this. Best of luck to you, fellow reader! Let me know what you think!!
First Thoughts:
The ending sucked, just an fyi. But up until the ending, the book was really good. I enjoyed the plot (mostly), I enjoyed the concept and the writing. The story had me hooked till the very end. Why oh why must the ending conclude that way?! Never read anything by this author so had no idea what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised with the attention to detail and the information that was provided to make this world possible...so with that said, let's continue...
Goodreads Summary:
What Brynn Caldwell can't remember might get her killed.
Brynn is a promising science student recovering from a bad relationship that sent her spiraling into a depression. But as she puts the pieces of her life back together, a few don't fit.
Brynn is uncovering memories of being abducted and possibly brainwashed. It's all connected to a drug that might be an ultimate weapon: a tool to control people's memories. Now, to stop a possible terrorist attack, Brynn has to find out what she's been forced to forget---and what side she's really on.
Plot:
Like I mentioned above the plot was pretty good, very fast and had some mystery. The problem I had was some of the plot was predictable and the ending was frustrating and lacked a good conclusion. I don't want to give anything away but I felt the ending left a lot of questions unanswered and the reader yearning for a better outcome. Also, the plot had a lot of information that would need to be researched and I think the author did a good job on that. Though I'm not sure if it was accurate but it seemed real all the same.It was creative in some ways too, like the science behind the mystery drug that's talked about throughout the whole book. This is a short book compared to some books nowadays, so it makes it a fast read, can be read in one or two sittings. So if you're looking for a quick read this is the book for you. I wish some of the parts weren't predictable; would've made the book more interesting to read. But maybe to some this story would come as a total surprise so I wouldn't knock it for that one aspect alone.
Romance:
There was romance in this book but not one I particularly care for. It seemed odd and forced so I was not a fan. I think this book would've been better without the romance but in the end I knew why it was needed, it did add to the plot. Without the romance things in this book would not have been possible. But I didn't like it, so if you're a romance reader this is not a book for you.
Characters:
Brynn was an okay character. She was fun to get to know and understand. Her memories were tampered with so it was hard to get to know her that well. But the parts where she was lucid she had a lot of deep emotions and thoughts. Some of the decisions she made I would have done differently but that's what makes her unique and real. She had her own thought processes and personality. Her mother was stiff and cold and I would hate to have her as my own mother. Dex was really the main mystery in this book. He was just as mysterious as the drug itself. I couldn't always get a good grasp on him so I didn't always know what to expect from him. All the other characters were good and were needed to add to the story-line so they were worth it. But like I mentioned earlier I wish I could've gotten a better grasp on Brynn (main protagonist). But maybe she was meant to appear that way; maybe that was the authors's intention all along.
Transformation of the Character:
This is a tricky part of the book to tackle. Yes in a way the Brynn did transform but some areas she didn't. It was the whole memories being contaminated that made this a tricky area to discuss. And I cant' really discuss much more without giving the story away so you'll just have to read it yourself.
Description:
This was one area of the book that I really enjoyed. The description of Brynn's world and her thoughts and feelings really added some mystery to the story. Though the beginning chapter I think had too much description. I think it could've been cut down some and still get the point across. But as the story progressed it did get better. Brynn's emotions and thoughts were well described and allowed the reader to get more attached to her when she was expressing them. The description of the scenery and world was good also. We got to really picture what was happening and see the foreshadowing in some places.
Style:
This was written in one POV and in third person. Being written in only Brynn's point of view only allowed the reader to see the world in one perspective. It left most of what was going on a mystery (well to some readers). I will admit there were some surprises and twists I didn't guess or see coming. So yes it's not completely predictable. Being written in third person allowed the reader to be a little detached from Brynn and see a little more of the world just not as much as if it were in more than one point of view. The author's writing was excellent, I would totally read more by this author, just in hopes the ending to her next book would be more fulfilling and satisfying.
Quote of the Book:
Can't do a direct quotation because this book isn't out yet and the publisher asked the reader to not to put any quotation from the book. But just know the writing is excellent and fun to read.
Last Thoughts:
Though I didn't always enjoy all parts of this book; it was excellent writing. It enticed the readers and allowed them to explore a world not of their own. Don't know if I would recommend anyone to read this because of the ending; but I would recommend keeping an eye on this author. Read whatever else she writes; perhaps the ending will be much better. But if you're looking for good writing this book has that. I leave it up to you as a reader to make the decision to read this. Best of luck to you, fellow reader! Let me know what you think!!
October 10, 2018
Sorry but I could predict every twist...the premise is good, though.
November 5, 2019
I was actually surprised by the surprise at the end. Though, I wished for an extended chapter or maybe an epilogue? The ending was too open ended. Still too many loose strings for me.
March 17, 2021
It was hard to get into this book. I stayed with it and finished it but if I had not read it I would be ok.
May 10, 2018
I would give four stars for the story and writing, one star for the ending (), which averages to three resentful stars. After finishing this book, I wrote several furious GR reviews in my head, then decided to wait until I could handle my feelings .
Oops.
In the following paragraph, I'm not going to actually say what happens at the end of the book, or give away the twists, or anything, but I'm putting it behind spoiler tags because the book isn't out yet and it doesn't feel fair even to talk around the ending.
TLDR: A gripping, fascinating psychological thriller with a divisive ending that will infuriate some and would make for a contentious, thus lively, teen book club discussion.
Oops.
In the following paragraph, I'm not going to actually say what happens at the end of the book, or give away the twists, or anything, but I'm putting it behind spoiler tags because the book isn't out yet and it doesn't feel fair even to talk around the ending.
TLDR: A gripping, fascinating psychological thriller with a divisive ending that will infuriate some and would make for a contentious, thus lively, teen book club discussion.
May 11, 2018
What do you get when you cross a drug that has the power to wipe memories meant to help soldiers suffering from PTSD and politicians who point to the greater good that drug could do in protecting humanity? I received an eArc via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. What if that politician is not as altruistic as he seems? Bring in teenagers who stumble upon a potentially catastrophic event and the reader gets an action-packed YA thriller with a doozy of a twist at the end. I pride myself on usually being able to see where a story is going but, Shadow State threw me a curveball and I did not see that one coming.
Brynn is a teenager with the sweetest boyfriend in the world who she has a lot in common with and he treats her very well. But, Brynn has had a tough year prior to meeting Dex. She suffered from depression and had to receive professional help and with the help of medication which she has just been weaned from she is starting to see what appear to be hallucinations. Along with the hallucinations she had a hole in her memory from the previous year. Her parents are worried about her but they seem to be working through it. Her mom has finally, after years of hard work, been able to bring the drug she and her business partner created to help PTSD victims to the market. It has been approved by the FDA and the government has shown great interest in the drug's progress and how it can help the military. There also is the problem with Brynn's best friend who won't speak to her and Brynn does not know why. Brynn reaches out and Lexi won't respond. What's worse is that Brynn does not understand why they are no longer friends. I am not sure how I feel about the ending. It was unexpected, but, it was good. I will definitely be on the lookout for more by this author. Review can also be seen at Lady Techie's Book Musings http://LadyTechiesbookmusings.blogspo....
Brynn is a teenager with the sweetest boyfriend in the world who she has a lot in common with and he treats her very well. But, Brynn has had a tough year prior to meeting Dex. She suffered from depression and had to receive professional help and with the help of medication which she has just been weaned from she is starting to see what appear to be hallucinations. Along with the hallucinations she had a hole in her memory from the previous year. Her parents are worried about her but they seem to be working through it. Her mom has finally, after years of hard work, been able to bring the drug she and her business partner created to help PTSD victims to the market. It has been approved by the FDA and the government has shown great interest in the drug's progress and how it can help the military. There also is the problem with Brynn's best friend who won't speak to her and Brynn does not know why. Brynn reaches out and Lexi won't respond. What's worse is that Brynn does not understand why they are no longer friends. I am not sure how I feel about the ending. It was unexpected, but, it was good. I will definitely be on the lookout for more by this author. Review can also be seen at Lady Techie's Book Musings http://LadyTechiesbookmusings.blogspo....
September 17, 2018
More of a 2.5; it would be very easy to skim and not miss much.
This story follows Brynn Caldwell; a science student starting to find her way as she comes out of a depression; who realizes she may have some forgotten traumas that are starting to come to light just as her scientist mother is about to launch a brand new drug aimed at curing PTSD victims of their bad memories. There's intrigue and political danger and mystery and conspiracies and lots of never knowing who to trust as Brynn begins to remember something she never should have forgotten. The tension gets high and this reads like nearly a screenplay for a fast-paced Hollywood flick complete with threat of bombs and flashbacks and twists at the end with betrayals heaped on betrayals.
Anything you didn’t like about it? The melodrama is incredibly ratcheted up so the story of a depressed teen reeling from escaping an abusive boyfriend mixed with high-action thriller suffers a bit in the execution: it is a bit campy in spots it likely doesn't intend to be and just plain over the top in others. It's also incredibly predictable. Also; aside from telling us that she clearly did one key small project; we don't see any of Brynn's supposed science student smarts in here used in any useful way.
To whom would you recommend this book? Will appeal to anyone looking for a very cheesy but fast-paced and twisting terrorism conspiracy thriller with some light talk of depression/PTSD
Who should buy this book? Public Libraries with large YA budgets
FTC Disclosure: The Publisher provided me with a copy of this book to provide an honest review. No goody bags, sponsorship, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
This story follows Brynn Caldwell; a science student starting to find her way as she comes out of a depression; who realizes she may have some forgotten traumas that are starting to come to light just as her scientist mother is about to launch a brand new drug aimed at curing PTSD victims of their bad memories. There's intrigue and political danger and mystery and conspiracies and lots of never knowing who to trust as Brynn begins to remember something she never should have forgotten. The tension gets high and this reads like nearly a screenplay for a fast-paced Hollywood flick complete with threat of bombs and flashbacks and twists at the end with betrayals heaped on betrayals.
Anything you didn’t like about it? The melodrama is incredibly ratcheted up so the story of a depressed teen reeling from escaping an abusive boyfriend mixed with high-action thriller suffers a bit in the execution: it is a bit campy in spots it likely doesn't intend to be and just plain over the top in others. It's also incredibly predictable. Also; aside from telling us that she clearly did one key small project; we don't see any of Brynn's supposed science student smarts in here used in any useful way.
To whom would you recommend this book? Will appeal to anyone looking for a very cheesy but fast-paced and twisting terrorism conspiracy thriller with some light talk of depression/PTSD
Who should buy this book? Public Libraries with large YA budgets
FTC Disclosure: The Publisher provided me with a copy of this book to provide an honest review. No goody bags, sponsorship, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
June 16, 2019
Language: R (37 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG13
After falling into and working to get out of her depression in the past year, Brynn is disappointed that she still isn’t back to her normal self. Anxiety and unfamiliar memories make Brynn worry that her depression is coming back—but the real reason behind her odd experiences is so much worse and has consequences so much bigger than Brynn.
Brayden hooked me within the first ten pages, which helped me slog through what felt like a lot of background information before returning to Brynn’s intriguing situation. Throughout the book, I was as disoriented and anxious as Brynn, a full participant in her reality. The book was written well enough to help me, as the reader, become suspicious of the right person eventually, but I’m disappointed that Brayden did not give me enough information to figure out the mystery by myself. I’m also not a fan of the ambiguous ending, but the story was entertaining to read overall.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
After falling into and working to get out of her depression in the past year, Brynn is disappointed that she still isn’t back to her normal self. Anxiety and unfamiliar memories make Brynn worry that her depression is coming back—but the real reason behind her odd experiences is so much worse and has consequences so much bigger than Brynn.
Brayden hooked me within the first ten pages, which helped me slog through what felt like a lot of background information before returning to Brynn’s intriguing situation. Throughout the book, I was as disoriented and anxious as Brynn, a full participant in her reality. The book was written well enough to help me, as the reader, become suspicious of the right person eventually, but I’m disappointed that Brayden did not give me enough information to figure out the mystery by myself. I’m also not a fan of the ambiguous ending, but the story was entertaining to read overall.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
September 5, 2021
This stinker got one star because of a good premise else it would have been negative stars because of all the problems with the writing.
At least 4 technical errors, over a dozen continuity errors, and almost as many things that were flat out unbelievable.
Start had way too many attemopts at mystery/tension and too little action or anything moving the plot forward.
Only one SPAG error noted.
Book was not interesting or compelling at all for way too long but did pick up a little near the end but then the ending was just another unbelievable event. And it was unclear whether the perps will be busted or did the SMS not get sent to all the news sources? Or is the lamestream media part of the conspiracy to make us all drones so the loonie lefties can control everybody more easily.
Book had some formatting/layout issues.
There were at least two major plot holes.
Overall this thing was hokie to the max.
At least 4 technical errors, over a dozen continuity errors, and almost as many things that were flat out unbelievable.
Start had way too many attemopts at mystery/tension and too little action or anything moving the plot forward.
Only one SPAG error noted.
Book was not interesting or compelling at all for way too long but did pick up a little near the end but then the ending was just another unbelievable event. And it was unclear whether the perps will be busted or did the SMS not get sent to all the news sources? Or is the lamestream media part of the conspiracy to make us all drones so the loonie lefties can control everybody more easily.
Book had some formatting/layout issues.
There were at least two major plot holes.
Overall this thing was hokie to the max.
December 13, 2023
Brynn Caldwell is an excellent student, accept for the blip last year. That blip, Jacob, sent her into depression and she just can't quite remember all what happened. And something happened between her best friend Lexi and her, but it's all a little fuzzy. Now she is back on track to win a prestigious award with the support of her family and new boyfriend Dex. Brynn's mother is an esteemed chemical scientist who has created a very promising drug to treat PTSD. The drop rollout is going to be very soon. But there are flashbacks that keep coming into Brynn's brain that says things are not quite right.
This was a one sitting book. Fast paced as Bryan starts to recall that lost year. And a slight twist at the end, never saw it coming.
This was a one sitting book. Fast paced as Bryan starts to recall that lost year. And a slight twist at the end, never saw it coming.
May 15, 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the E-arc copy of #Shadow State.
Let me first start off by saying, the synopsis was a huge selling point for me on this novel. Once, I started it the character Brynn got me invested, but the ending just p****** me off. What? I am not sure if this will be a series now or just leaves you thinking okay.. either way I'm still holding a grudge at the book. Brayden is a really solid writer and has great storytelling ability. The book is good, but that ending just leaves me reeling. I would have given it 4 stars if not for the ending. Just saying.
Let me first start off by saying, the synopsis was a huge selling point for me on this novel. Once, I started it the character Brynn got me invested, but the ending just p****** me off. What? I am not sure if this will be a series now or just leaves you thinking okay.. either way I'm still holding a grudge at the book. Brayden is a really solid writer and has great storytelling ability. The book is good, but that ending just leaves me reeling. I would have given it 4 stars if not for the ending. Just saying.
November 7, 2023
the premise is good, but the book was very predictable, and i disliked how abruptly it ended. i felt like there was so much rising action, then barely any climax, and almost no resolution.
it was an enjoyable read, but not really an amazing book.
it was an enjoyable read, but not really an amazing book.
August 18, 2018
ILA YA Choices nominee. Held my attention, the premise is a good one, and thrillers are my favorite genre. However, lots of loose ends here—the finale was quick and undeveloped. Wish there was more!
September 6, 2018
I liked it 😊 I figured out the twist early on though.
April 29, 2021
It was good but the ending was not what I would have wanted? I guess at least it's different. It kept my attention and it was a fast read.
May 26, 2021
The book was great! There was lots of plot twists and changes towards the end but it made the book good!
April 11, 2022
good and easy read
the ending had such a plot twist that i definitely did not expect
wanting a sequel
the ending had such a plot twist that i definitely did not expect
wanting a sequel
February 20, 2023
Closer to a 2.5. This book was strange. The plot twist was extremely predictable from the moment the book started. And the ending made very little sense. I dont think I'd read this again.
July 6, 2023
I enjoyed this book. I never had it figured out and was totally caught off at the end when the plot all unfolded. This writer did a great job of not revealing secrets till the end.
July 5, 2018
Read my review on my blog:
Shadow State review
Great concept and story, terrible ending. Read the full review on Literary Lexi.
Shadow State review
Great concept and story, terrible ending. Read the full review on Literary Lexi.
July 5, 2018
First, the story takes place over 12 days. Brynn has a history of anxiety and depression. First in her class, great boyfriend. So, what is wrong? Her mother is a celebrated PhD, her father in the symphony orchestra.
Out of the blue, Brynn receives a text message, "Are you ready? It's almost time." "Eleven more days". This piqued my interest! A grey Toyota continues to show up in Brynn's life (at school, when visiting, etc.) Brynn continues getting the texts: "What do you remember?", "Blue flash drive in your drawer". Her boyfriend, Dex, seems to be unhappy with where this may be leading to. After all, Brynn gave a bomb lecture in class and her ex-boyfriend, Jacob< was a controlling sort who may be a terrorist. Brynn's mom, has developed Cortexia, a cure for PTSD. Is this connected? Brynn and Dex decide to check at mom's (Celeste) work for any clues. While there, Dr. Lowell (Celeste's research partner) points to the research . Dex and Brynn steal it and, of course, it is highjacked off them. Brynn has suspicions, so she decides to confront her mother. Is her mother a terrorist?
Her mother does not sort it out for Brynn. Brynn "remembers" a memory loss, a grey Toyota and her best friend, Lexi, in time. Puzzling conclusions with too many spoilers to list here. Crosses and double crosses. Identity revelations. All too confusing for me. Great premise but does not deliver.
Out of the blue, Brynn receives a text message, "Are you ready? It's almost time." "Eleven more days". This piqued my interest! A grey Toyota continues to show up in Brynn's life (at school, when visiting, etc.) Brynn continues getting the texts: "What do you remember?", "Blue flash drive in your drawer". Her boyfriend, Dex, seems to be unhappy with where this may be leading to. After all, Brynn gave a bomb lecture in class and her ex-boyfriend, Jacob< was a controlling sort who may be a terrorist. Brynn's mom, has developed Cortexia, a cure for PTSD. Is this connected? Brynn and Dex decide to check at mom's (Celeste) work for any clues. While there, Dr. Lowell (Celeste's research partner) points to the research . Dex and Brynn steal it and, of course, it is highjacked off them. Brynn has suspicions, so she decides to confront her mother. Is her mother a terrorist?
Her mother does not sort it out for Brynn. Brynn "remembers" a memory loss, a grey Toyota and her best friend, Lexi, in time. Puzzling conclusions with too many spoilers to list here. Crosses and double crosses. Identity revelations. All too confusing for me. Great premise but does not deliver.
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