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Twisted #1
What Doesn't Kill You
"I just wanted to be normal, but the day college started a supernatural world opened up. Now I don't know who to trust... or even if I'll survive the night."
When Marley moves into her dorm at Blackville University, the recent murder of a Tennerson student is the last thing on her mind. She has roommates to get to know, classes to sign up for, parties to attend, and an over-protective father to avoid, who, as luck would have it, has just been hired at BU as its newest History professor.
After a childhood of being bullied due to a condition she can't help having, all Marley wants is to be normal. She hopes a new start in a new city will provide that.
Unfortunately, life has other plans for her.
When she, along with three other girls try to stop an attack, a secret new world opens up, one where supernatural beings rule the night. But that’s not the worst thing, not by a long shot. Try never knowing if what you’re seeing is real, especially when one of those things is a murder...
Saving the world has never been this twisted!
A new urban fantasy series from the award-winning screenwriter of ground-breaking BBC TV series Spirit Warriors.
When Marley moves into her dorm at Blackville University, the recent murder of a Tennerson student is the last thing on her mind. She has roommates to get to know, classes to sign up for, parties to attend, and an over-protective father to avoid, who, as luck would have it, has just been hired at BU as its newest History professor.
After a childhood of being bullied due to a condition she can't help having, all Marley wants is to be normal. She hopes a new start in a new city will provide that.
Unfortunately, life has other plans for her.
When she, along with three other girls try to stop an attack, a secret new world opens up, one where supernatural beings rule the night. But that’s not the worst thing, not by a long shot. Try never knowing if what you’re seeing is real, especially when one of those things is a murder...
Saving the world has never been this twisted!
Fans of The Mortal Instruments, The Vampire Diaries, Supernatural, and Pretty Little Liars will love this thrilling new series!
98 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2018
98 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
Jo Ho
34 books74 followersA proud geek and video gamer, and champion of complex female protagonists, Jo brings her page-turning screenwriting style to books to weave well-crafted, suspenseful stories with twists you don't see coming. She writes YA books under Jo Ho and adult romance books under Joanne Ho - most of them featuring dogs!
A self-taught screenwriter, Jo's writing life began when she created the groundbreaking, critically acclaimed CBBC action fantasy television series, "Spirit Warriors," which introduced leading actress, Jessica Henwick ("Game of Thrones," "Star Wars: The Force Awakes") to the screen. Granted the biggest budget ever given to a CBBC show at the time, it was nominated for "Best Children's Programme" at the 2011 Broadcast Awards, with Jo herself, going on to win the Women in Film & Television's "New Talent" Award in 2010. Jo even made history for being the first East Asian person - man or woman - to have created a British television drama series.
Since then, Jo has worked with some of the most acclaimed producers in the world with several television shows and movies currently in development, she also writes for games. When she isn't working on her own stories, Jo helps others with their work - she is one of the BFI's (British Film Institute) recommended script consultants.
Jo suffers from MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivities), a debilitating condition she has developed over the last few years which has left her mostly housebound. Unfortunately, it is still not officially recognized in the UK despite the World Health Organisation listing it as a physical disability. There is currently no help for sufferers of MCS in the UK. Unable to travel or attend meetings and writersrooms, she has lost many screenwriting opportunities but has refused to allow the condition to rule her life. Despite the wrench life has thrown at her, Jo started to write and publish books.
Her debut novel WANTED, Book 1 of the Chase Ryder series has been a bestseller in 15 YA categories. It also won top prize in the YA Sci-Fi category for the 2018 Readers' Favorite Book Awards. It is her dream to bring all of her book series to screen and she believes she can make it happen with her readers' help!
Jo lives in London and hopes to travel across America one day in a super kitted out, MCS-friendly, Zombie-apocalypse-ready RV with her lovely fella Matt, and three equally lovely kitties.
Sign up to her mailing list for updates, book release details and offers at www.johoscribe.com
Check out her romance books here: https://www.amazon.com/Joanne-Ho/e/B0...
A self-taught screenwriter, Jo's writing life began when she created the groundbreaking, critically acclaimed CBBC action fantasy television series, "Spirit Warriors," which introduced leading actress, Jessica Henwick ("Game of Thrones," "Star Wars: The Force Awakes") to the screen. Granted the biggest budget ever given to a CBBC show at the time, it was nominated for "Best Children's Programme" at the 2011 Broadcast Awards, with Jo herself, going on to win the Women in Film & Television's "New Talent" Award in 2010. Jo even made history for being the first East Asian person - man or woman - to have created a British television drama series.
Since then, Jo has worked with some of the most acclaimed producers in the world with several television shows and movies currently in development, she also writes for games. When she isn't working on her own stories, Jo helps others with their work - she is one of the BFI's (British Film Institute) recommended script consultants.
Jo suffers from MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivities), a debilitating condition she has developed over the last few years which has left her mostly housebound. Unfortunately, it is still not officially recognized in the UK despite the World Health Organisation listing it as a physical disability. There is currently no help for sufferers of MCS in the UK. Unable to travel or attend meetings and writersrooms, she has lost many screenwriting opportunities but has refused to allow the condition to rule her life. Despite the wrench life has thrown at her, Jo started to write and publish books.
Her debut novel WANTED, Book 1 of the Chase Ryder series has been a bestseller in 15 YA categories. It also won top prize in the YA Sci-Fi category for the 2018 Readers' Favorite Book Awards. It is her dream to bring all of her book series to screen and she believes she can make it happen with her readers' help!
Jo lives in London and hopes to travel across America one day in a super kitted out, MCS-friendly, Zombie-apocalypse-ready RV with her lovely fella Matt, and three equally lovely kitties.
Sign up to her mailing list for updates, book release details and offers at www.johoscribe.com
Check out her romance books here: https://www.amazon.com/Joanne-Ho/e/B0...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
September 12, 2018
So, on the whole, this wasn't bad but it wasn't my cup of tea.
I couldn't really connect with any of the main characters and the plot couldn't capture my attention enough for me to want to continue (or should I say start since this is a prequel?) the Twisted series. At least not for now, but I kind of have different priorities at the moment.
I also didn't really like the writing. I couldn't find a difference between the various povs, all the characters sounded exactly the same.
The style was too colloquial and, I don't know why, but it felt like all the pop references were sort of forced and made it sound like the author/the narrating character was trying too hard to be relatable.
I could be wrong, of course, but still, I'm not impressed.
I couldn't really connect with any of the main characters and the plot couldn't capture my attention enough for me to want to continue (or should I say start since this is a prequel?) the Twisted series. At least not for now, but I kind of have different priorities at the moment.
I also didn't really like the writing. I couldn't find a difference between the various povs, all the characters sounded exactly the same.
The style was too colloquial and, I don't know why, but it felt like all the pop references were sort of forced and made it sound like the author/the narrating character was trying too hard to be relatable.
I could be wrong, of course, but still, I'm not impressed.
Want to read
August 31, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (8/31/2018)!💝
Blurb:
OUTCASTS. MISFITS. FREAKS.
And that was before they discovered they commanded some super dark powers.
A new urban fantasy series by the award-winning screenwriter and creator of ground-breaking BBC TV series Spirit Warriors.
When Marley moves into her dorm at Blackville University, the recent murder of a Tennerson student is the last thing on her mind. She has roommates to get to know, classes to sign up for, parties to attend, and an over-protective father to avoid, who, as luck would have it, has just been hired at BU as its newest History professor.
After a childhood of being bullied due to a condition she can’t help having, all Marley wants is to be normal. She hopes a new start in a new city will provide that.
Unfortunately, life has other plans for her.
When she, along with three other troubled girls: Goth Eve with a dark secret she is desperate to keep hidden, wealthy Cassie who can buy anything except for a new face, and newly orphaned Tyler, try to stop a brutal attack, a secret new world opens up, one where supernatural beings rule the night.
But that’s not the worst thing, not by a long shot. Try never knowing if what you’re seeing is real, especially when one of those things is a murder…
Saving the world has never been this Twisted!
Fans of The Mortal Instruments, The Vampire Diaries, and Pretty Little Liars will love this new series.
Blurb:
OUTCASTS. MISFITS. FREAKS.
And that was before they discovered they commanded some super dark powers.
A new urban fantasy series by the award-winning screenwriter and creator of ground-breaking BBC TV series Spirit Warriors.
When Marley moves into her dorm at Blackville University, the recent murder of a Tennerson student is the last thing on her mind. She has roommates to get to know, classes to sign up for, parties to attend, and an over-protective father to avoid, who, as luck would have it, has just been hired at BU as its newest History professor.
After a childhood of being bullied due to a condition she can’t help having, all Marley wants is to be normal. She hopes a new start in a new city will provide that.
Unfortunately, life has other plans for her.
When she, along with three other troubled girls: Goth Eve with a dark secret she is desperate to keep hidden, wealthy Cassie who can buy anything except for a new face, and newly orphaned Tyler, try to stop a brutal attack, a secret new world opens up, one where supernatural beings rule the night.
But that’s not the worst thing, not by a long shot. Try never knowing if what you’re seeing is real, especially when one of those things is a murder…
Saving the world has never been this Twisted!
Fans of The Mortal Instruments, The Vampire Diaries, and Pretty Little Liars will love this new series.
June 16, 2018
Wanted #1 - This is a verified purchase, after getting the Instafreebie with 15 chapters, this book was purchased. Another well written book by Jo. I was impressed with The Boy Next Door, but this novel is just as great. Wanted has characters that are believable and well developed. The fast-paced plot was well thought out, full of intrigue and the pages just flew by, filled with suspense. My emotions were constantly in motion, varying continuously throughout the story. The reason behind the horror has you feeling for the evil person, but continuously pulling for the good guys. 5*
Haunted #2 - Another good book! A well written, suspenseful novel with a well thought out plot and interesting, believable characters. I read it in one sitting, it was so good. This author never fails to disappoint the reader. 5*
The Boy Next Door - A must read. Beautiful story, sad and uplifting. Well-written, compelling the reader to complete the story in one sitting. I'm so glad I contacted the author to review her novella. I want to read more of her work. 5*
What Doesn't Kill You, Episode #1 - Totally awesome!, and it's just the first episode. It's a cliffhanger but it's written in episodes, which I totally dislike in any book. That pet peeve aside, Ms. Ho has done a jam up job with the start of a new series. This genre is right up my alley and I love everything I've read by this author. The story starts with the introductions of the main characters and touches on their background. I'm sure as the pages grow, the characters will develop more with time and experiences. So far, I like all of them, and I usually don't care for this age group, but I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the story. The last chapter pretty much gave a big hint of the future of these four young women and the roller coaster ride their lives will be now.
I wish I could tell what happened to Christian, but that's a spoiler; I let you enjoy the story with fresh eyes and no heads up. The story line can go anywhere from here and I know the ride will be fast paced and twisted. I thank the author for the clean language; yes, real people do not use vulgar language, whether they're Christians or not. 5 stars even though it's in parts - made for the screen, not to make more profits.
Haunted #2 - Another good book! A well written, suspenseful novel with a well thought out plot and interesting, believable characters. I read it in one sitting, it was so good. This author never fails to disappoint the reader. 5*
The Boy Next Door - A must read. Beautiful story, sad and uplifting. Well-written, compelling the reader to complete the story in one sitting. I'm so glad I contacted the author to review her novella. I want to read more of her work. 5*
What Doesn't Kill You, Episode #1 - Totally awesome!, and it's just the first episode. It's a cliffhanger but it's written in episodes, which I totally dislike in any book. That pet peeve aside, Ms. Ho has done a jam up job with the start of a new series. This genre is right up my alley and I love everything I've read by this author. The story starts with the introductions of the main characters and touches on their background. I'm sure as the pages grow, the characters will develop more with time and experiences. So far, I like all of them, and I usually don't care for this age group, but I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the story. The last chapter pretty much gave a big hint of the future of these four young women and the roller coaster ride their lives will be now.
I wish I could tell what happened to Christian, but that's a spoiler; I let you enjoy the story with fresh eyes and no heads up. The story line can go anywhere from here and I know the ride will be fast paced and twisted. I thank the author for the clean language; yes, real people do not use vulgar language, whether they're Christians or not. 5 stars even though it's in parts - made for the screen, not to make more profits.
July 4, 2018
OMG. THIS. BOOK.
Now I admit I’ve gotten hooked on the latest trend of serials, but this book is the first I’ve read that completely and utterly had me from the first page. I could almost describe reading this book is like watching a television show. I love the characters. Each is well written as separate complex individuals. Then there’s the story. So full of twists and epic turns that I can’t explain it without giving spoilers away. The author did a great job setting up the story to want readers to return. If you have even the slightest inclination to read this book I beg you to try it! You will not be disappointed.
While the story is geared towards young adults, I believe older audiences will enjoy this book as well. There’s mystery, suspense and lots of entertainment. There also some honest dealings with troubled teens who have secrets and feelings to work through.
What Doesn’t Kill You is the first book in the Twisted series.
Final Rating: 5 Stars
Now I admit I’ve gotten hooked on the latest trend of serials, but this book is the first I’ve read that completely and utterly had me from the first page. I could almost describe reading this book is like watching a television show. I love the characters. Each is well written as separate complex individuals. Then there’s the story. So full of twists and epic turns that I can’t explain it without giving spoilers away. The author did a great job setting up the story to want readers to return. If you have even the slightest inclination to read this book I beg you to try it! You will not be disappointed.
While the story is geared towards young adults, I believe older audiences will enjoy this book as well. There’s mystery, suspense and lots of entertainment. There also some honest dealings with troubled teens who have secrets and feelings to work through.
What Doesn’t Kill You is the first book in the Twisted series.
Final Rating: 5 Stars
December 25, 2019
What Doesn’t Kill You is Jo Ho’s latest series. This series is written as a TV series with each book being a week’s installment. All I can say is WOW!!!!! Jo does it again. Her descriptive writing creates imagery that really puts you in the scene. I LOVE THIS STORY!!!!!! Every single girl if honest with herself should be able to relate to these girls. I appreciate how each girl has their strengths and weaknesses that have already started coming out. The scene in the church was so descriptive and freaky in a good way. I had to go back and read it a second time because I though for sure I had missed something or misread something. I hadn't but was really glad I reread it.
I am so curious as to what the story is behind Eve and how her brother will fit into the storyline. Each one of these girls has family that will be affected by their newfound powers. I cannot wait to see how each girl and her family develop even more as their powers grow.
I could picture the scenes and where they would put the breaks and everything.
These college girls are not just silly girls who immediately bond because they are in the same dorm and roommates. They each have their own baggage who makes them leery of the others. As the story develops things happen that change how much they trust each other until finally they are almost forced to trust at least a bit.
Can't wait to read more.
I am voluntarily leaving this review after receiving a free copy of this book.
I am so curious as to what the story is behind Eve and how her brother will fit into the storyline. Each one of these girls has family that will be affected by their newfound powers. I cannot wait to see how each girl and her family develop even more as their powers grow.
I could picture the scenes and where they would put the breaks and everything.
These college girls are not just silly girls who immediately bond because they are in the same dorm and roommates. They each have their own baggage who makes them leery of the others. As the story develops things happen that change how much they trust each other until finally they are almost forced to trust at least a bit.
Can't wait to read more.
I am voluntarily leaving this review after receiving a free copy of this book.
June 15, 2018
An incredible series beginning. Jo Ho has a magical way of writing characters and a storyline that I can immediately fall in love with just within the first few lines of the book. The action and the characters start off by grabbing you in and not letting go until the end. What Doesn’t Kill You is a beautiful blend of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural. I could not put this book down and read it in one sitting. I needed to keep turning the pages to find out what would happen next and fought off sleep until I reached the end. This book spoke to so many emotions – trying to fit in, loss, and friendship. I love all the “flawed,” but strong and brave, female characters and CANNOT wait to read more of this series.
Kudos to Jo Ho on another excellent book! Get it NOW, you will not be disappointed. Plus, the cover artwork is fantastic!
Kudos to Jo Ho on another excellent book! Get it NOW, you will not be disappointed. Plus, the cover artwork is fantastic!
June 17, 2018
This is the start of something that going to be be very, very good. Again magic and feisty females just what I like. Something similar to the Bewitched series perhaps. Cannot wait for the next one. Highly recommended must read.
July 19, 2018
A definite outstanding and a must read for everyone. There wasn’t a part that didn’t have you trying to anticipate the next part. The characters were totally suited for their role they play in this story. Loved it.
November 14, 2021
This took me a bit by surprise. I have read books by this author before and really enjoyed them, but I still fell into the trap of first impressions.
This is set on a campus with a group of young women who all have certain things that they feel insecure about. The story starts with the feeling out process - new beginnings, getting to know strangers, judging and being judged etc. Pretty soon, however, you get thrown off guard by an event that clearly stamps this book as not as 'nice' as it appears. The characters are introduced and developed during the course of this story and, as it progresses, we learn more about them as people and start to understand their backgrounds, likes and personalities. There are some typical scenes of stereotypes and their behaviours that won't be a surprise to readers of YA literature / series or films set in high school / college. Even so, you can empathise with the victims and feel indignation and anger on how they are treated. This is clearly an introductory book, and does well in that respect, building things up nicely to lead into the next story. As we start to get a feeling for what is to come, there are supernatural aspects coming into play and powers that are just beginning to show.
A good start to the series, but you will be disappointed if you read this as a standalone book as there is so much more to follow.
This is set on a campus with a group of young women who all have certain things that they feel insecure about. The story starts with the feeling out process - new beginnings, getting to know strangers, judging and being judged etc. Pretty soon, however, you get thrown off guard by an event that clearly stamps this book as not as 'nice' as it appears. The characters are introduced and developed during the course of this story and, as it progresses, we learn more about them as people and start to understand their backgrounds, likes and personalities. There are some typical scenes of stereotypes and their behaviours that won't be a surprise to readers of YA literature / series or films set in high school / college. Even so, you can empathise with the victims and feel indignation and anger on how they are treated. This is clearly an introductory book, and does well in that respect, building things up nicely to lead into the next story. As we start to get a feeling for what is to come, there are supernatural aspects coming into play and powers that are just beginning to show.
A good start to the series, but you will be disappointed if you read this as a standalone book as there is so much more to follow.
October 27, 2018
Music blared out from Tonic, a popular new college hangout. Tonight it just seemed to suffocate Becky Stevens whose friends had brought her here to show her ex-boyfriend, Mark, that their breakup didn’t mean anything to her. All their talks about a future together were wasted – why would he be unfaithful to her? She couldn’t stay here with all this noise anymore; she needed to go back to the dorm, watch a little TV, and go to bed. But as she walked back alone, she heard footsteps behind her. She spun around but saw nothing. Reaching for her phone to call for help, she dropped the purse and the phone’s screen cracked on the sidewalk. Something moved in the glass reflection and she looked up in terror as her neck was snapped!
Marley Gray was moving into her dorm at Blackville University, being careful not to make a spectacle of herself by dropping the contents of her box all over the floor. Her roommate, Cassie, was already in the room by the time she and her dad stepped in. Cassie was very shy, constantly dropping her gaze to the floor. Even after their parents left, Cassie had very little to say to her new roommate. Across the hall, Tyler Jones was also unpacking quietly, all she owned fitting in one box. Seeing the movie-star parents hug their daughter, Tyler got a stabbing pain in her chest and took deep meditative breaths until it eased off. Her world had ended when her parents were killed in a car crash. A knock on her door and Si introduced himself. His sister would be Tyler’s roommate. Eve stepped into the doorway and promptly said she would not move in with Tyler. Eve was dressed as a Goth, black fingernails and black makeup, black dyed hair with blood-red tips. She turned and stomped out of the room, Si running after her to convince her to return.
At the first dorm meeting, their RA Rhett gave them the basics. But then his voice turned serious. He told them a student from a neighboring college had been found dead nearby the previous night, her neck snapped. This was not the first such murder – was there a serial killer on the loose?
I listened to the audiobook version and was delighted with the narration by Allyson Voller. She did a great job with the voices of the characters and the telling of the tale. I appreciated the amount of description provided by the author which really did paint a vivid image in the reader’s mind of the surroundings and events taking place. It brought the reader directly into the action and kept the suspense high. The book was well-written and interesting enough to keep the reader moving into the next episode as well while this supernatural tale spins out. Grab your copy now and follow along in the excitement!
Marley Gray was moving into her dorm at Blackville University, being careful not to make a spectacle of herself by dropping the contents of her box all over the floor. Her roommate, Cassie, was already in the room by the time she and her dad stepped in. Cassie was very shy, constantly dropping her gaze to the floor. Even after their parents left, Cassie had very little to say to her new roommate. Across the hall, Tyler Jones was also unpacking quietly, all she owned fitting in one box. Seeing the movie-star parents hug their daughter, Tyler got a stabbing pain in her chest and took deep meditative breaths until it eased off. Her world had ended when her parents were killed in a car crash. A knock on her door and Si introduced himself. His sister would be Tyler’s roommate. Eve stepped into the doorway and promptly said she would not move in with Tyler. Eve was dressed as a Goth, black fingernails and black makeup, black dyed hair with blood-red tips. She turned and stomped out of the room, Si running after her to convince her to return.
At the first dorm meeting, their RA Rhett gave them the basics. But then his voice turned serious. He told them a student from a neighboring college had been found dead nearby the previous night, her neck snapped. This was not the first such murder – was there a serial killer on the loose?
I listened to the audiobook version and was delighted with the narration by Allyson Voller. She did a great job with the voices of the characters and the telling of the tale. I appreciated the amount of description provided by the author which really did paint a vivid image in the reader’s mind of the surroundings and events taking place. It brought the reader directly into the action and kept the suspense high. The book was well-written and interesting enough to keep the reader moving into the next episode as well while this supernatural tale spins out. Grab your copy now and follow along in the excitement!
April 28, 2020
OMG this first book is totally awesome! Hooking me from the very start it is filled with twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat! If supernatural Is your thing then you really must read this, I’m off to get book 2!
September 17, 2018
This a good start to the series about four girls starting Uni and trying to find their footing in a new surrounding. When they witness some man trying to murder some one.
What would you do?
What would you do?
December 26, 2018
not what I was expecting, this is basically ten aged murder mystery with paranormal creatures
February 17, 2019
Title: What Doesn’t Kill You
Author: Jo Ho
Publisher: Jo Ho
ISBN: 978-1983184406
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/198...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Twisted 1
A new urban fantasy series from the award-winning screenwriter of ground-breaking BBC TV series Spirit Warriors.
When Marley moves into her dorm at Blackville University, she has classes to sign up for, parties to attend, and an over-protective father to avoid, who, as luck would have it, has just been hired at BU as its newest History professor.
While trying to befriend her roommate, Marley discovers that Cassie might just be the oddest - if richest - girl she's ever known. Then there's Eve, the older girl with a mysterious past who hides her true face under layers of make-up and a bitchy attitude. Thank God for Tyler who seems nice and has the kind of hair Marley would kill for, or she would think college life was a bust already.
After a disastrous night out ends with them all thrown together for the first time, something happens that no one expected. Something magical. And suddenly they discover they each have been gifted with strange new powers - but why? And who is the mysterious good-looking stranger who seems to know far more than he is willing to tell them?
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Four different girls brought together as they start college find their lives changed forever by what at first appears to be a whim of fate, but turns out to be so much more. Marley is determined to hide her secret and find acceptance in her new school. Cassie may have rich famous parents, but her feelings of in adequacy makes it difficult to fit in. The only thing Tyler hasn’t lost is her sister and she will do anything to keep her safe. Eve will never allow anyone close enough to hurt her again. In spite of their differences, they find within themselves the power to succeed if they can trust in each other. There is more to this story than meets the eye and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
This audiobook was a wonderful start to what looks to be incredible series.
Author: Jo Ho
Publisher: Jo Ho
ISBN: 978-1983184406
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/198...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Twisted 1
A new urban fantasy series from the award-winning screenwriter of ground-breaking BBC TV series Spirit Warriors.
When Marley moves into her dorm at Blackville University, she has classes to sign up for, parties to attend, and an over-protective father to avoid, who, as luck would have it, has just been hired at BU as its newest History professor.
While trying to befriend her roommate, Marley discovers that Cassie might just be the oddest - if richest - girl she's ever known. Then there's Eve, the older girl with a mysterious past who hides her true face under layers of make-up and a bitchy attitude. Thank God for Tyler who seems nice and has the kind of hair Marley would kill for, or she would think college life was a bust already.
After a disastrous night out ends with them all thrown together for the first time, something happens that no one expected. Something magical. And suddenly they discover they each have been gifted with strange new powers - but why? And who is the mysterious good-looking stranger who seems to know far more than he is willing to tell them?
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Four different girls brought together as they start college find their lives changed forever by what at first appears to be a whim of fate, but turns out to be so much more. Marley is determined to hide her secret and find acceptance in her new school. Cassie may have rich famous parents, but her feelings of in adequacy makes it difficult to fit in. The only thing Tyler hasn’t lost is her sister and she will do anything to keep her safe. Eve will never allow anyone close enough to hurt her again. In spite of their differences, they find within themselves the power to succeed if they can trust in each other. There is more to this story than meets the eye and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
This audiobook was a wonderful start to what looks to be incredible series.
May 9, 2019
You can find this review and all of my others over at www.readbookrepeat.wordpress.com
Actual rating of 3.75
Marley is moving into her dorm, this is her chance for a new start, a clean slate, a chance to make some new friends and to put her past behind her. Or is it? Marley meets her roommate Cassie, a rich girl with beautiful parents who is fairly ordinary herself, Tyler, a loner from across the hall, and Eve a goth girl with a past to hide. Navigating their first day on campus, they find out that a girl was murdered recently nearby, not thinking much of it, they decide to head out and attend a party being hosted a local bar. On the way home they witness a strange sight as two men are fighting, with one intending to kill the other. What happens next will change the four girls' lives forever.
This had a very YA feel to it, even though the characters are college aged, they still felt kinda juvenile to me. That's not a negative, that's just an observation and a heads up to readers who aren't into that kind of thing. There's a lot of petty things still happening, like one girl being ostracised because she's not model pretty, and another being picked on because she's a goth. This is what made the characters seem juvenile. Even though the POV was switching between characters, I found it relatively easy to keep up with who was saying and doing what. I found the characters to be interesting, as well as their stories, but then, I'm quite partial to a good slice of life story, which is how this started out. Until Marley saw something and the story began to take a darker tone.
I really enjoyed where the story went, though the 'big reveal' of the cornerstone of the story felt a bit whirlwind and out of the blue for me. I feel like there would have been signs leading up to it? I'm not sure, maybe it's just me. Also, this is a serialised story, this is mentioned in the afterword. I feel like it was translate well and possibly work better as a TV show, which the author actually mentioned she was hoping to achieve with it.
I'm super intrigued with this story though and I do plan on continuing.
Actual rating of 3.75
Marley is moving into her dorm, this is her chance for a new start, a clean slate, a chance to make some new friends and to put her past behind her. Or is it? Marley meets her roommate Cassie, a rich girl with beautiful parents who is fairly ordinary herself, Tyler, a loner from across the hall, and Eve a goth girl with a past to hide. Navigating their first day on campus, they find out that a girl was murdered recently nearby, not thinking much of it, they decide to head out and attend a party being hosted a local bar. On the way home they witness a strange sight as two men are fighting, with one intending to kill the other. What happens next will change the four girls' lives forever.
This had a very YA feel to it, even though the characters are college aged, they still felt kinda juvenile to me. That's not a negative, that's just an observation and a heads up to readers who aren't into that kind of thing. There's a lot of petty things still happening, like one girl being ostracised because she's not model pretty, and another being picked on because she's a goth. This is what made the characters seem juvenile. Even though the POV was switching between characters, I found it relatively easy to keep up with who was saying and doing what. I found the characters to be interesting, as well as their stories, but then, I'm quite partial to a good slice of life story, which is how this started out. Until Marley saw something and the story began to take a darker tone.
I really enjoyed where the story went, though the 'big reveal' of the cornerstone of the story felt a bit whirlwind and out of the blue for me. I feel like there would have been signs leading up to it? I'm not sure, maybe it's just me. Also, this is a serialised story, this is mentioned in the afterword. I feel like it was translate well and possibly work better as a TV show, which the author actually mentioned she was hoping to achieve with it.
I'm super intrigued with this story though and I do plan on continuing.
June 23, 2018
Blackville University has a history. A history which is given as a warning to freshmen in the "Welcome!" speech of the dorm. While most college freshman balk at the idea of restrictions surrounding their first year of freedom, this particular warning has levity. A college girl was found on campus with a broken neck. While the case is still unsolved, police are actively investigating, and have a few rules to follow.
Marley, Cassie, Tyler, and Eve are settling into their dorms. Awkwardness surrounds each individual as they get settled in; especially Marley who is harboring a secret. Each girl seems to fit a stereotype that all of us are familiar with. Cassie is the girl with the picture perfect life, yet tries too hard to fit in. Tyler's parents died in a car accident, and she's fighting for custody of her little sister from her foster mom. Marley comes from a single parent household; her dad would move heaven and earth for her. And Eve is a college repeater. After having so much trouble the previous year, she's attempting to redeem herself.
Our mixed group of heroines do their best to break through the awkwardness and become friends- or at least social enough to start building a friendship. On the way home from a party, our group goes into a church across campus. Here they witness two men attempting to kill one another. In an effort to stop them, the girls step forward, and are immediately bathed in a brilliant light.
It seems all the girls are changed by the light, each emerging with a newfound ability. Cassie is able to change her appearance. Eve can put up a wall of moths. Tyler was able to change rain drops into shards of glass. And Marley can put her hands through someone's chest and stop their heart. Why do they have abilities? What could these abilities be used for? Tune in next time for the next episode of the Twisted series.
According to Jo, this particular series has been in the works for awhile now; each new project she delved into, Twisted seemed to get put on the back burner. Reading the "pilot episode" for this made for TV series, you can tell how much time and effort she spent creating this story. For a pilot, it's your standard pilot. Just enough information given to get the audience interested and wanting more. I do hope that this series will broadcast in the states!
Marley, Cassie, Tyler, and Eve are settling into their dorms. Awkwardness surrounds each individual as they get settled in; especially Marley who is harboring a secret. Each girl seems to fit a stereotype that all of us are familiar with. Cassie is the girl with the picture perfect life, yet tries too hard to fit in. Tyler's parents died in a car accident, and she's fighting for custody of her little sister from her foster mom. Marley comes from a single parent household; her dad would move heaven and earth for her. And Eve is a college repeater. After having so much trouble the previous year, she's attempting to redeem herself.
Our mixed group of heroines do their best to break through the awkwardness and become friends- or at least social enough to start building a friendship. On the way home from a party, our group goes into a church across campus. Here they witness two men attempting to kill one another. In an effort to stop them, the girls step forward, and are immediately bathed in a brilliant light.
It seems all the girls are changed by the light, each emerging with a newfound ability. Cassie is able to change her appearance. Eve can put up a wall of moths. Tyler was able to change rain drops into shards of glass. And Marley can put her hands through someone's chest and stop their heart. Why do they have abilities? What could these abilities be used for? Tune in next time for the next episode of the Twisted series.
According to Jo, this particular series has been in the works for awhile now; each new project she delved into, Twisted seemed to get put on the back burner. Reading the "pilot episode" for this made for TV series, you can tell how much time and effort she spent creating this story. For a pilot, it's your standard pilot. Just enough information given to get the audience interested and wanting more. I do hope that this series will broadcast in the states!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2020
#Readathon2020 - eBooks
My Readathon 2020 so far
This is a little bit disappointing. The first book of the year is a total flop!. The characters are completely unrelatable and as immature as you can get them. They are supposed to be young women starting college and act and think like they are 11 and about to start high school. The good news it was only the first instalment and I don't want to read the rest. So very little time wasted there. I just wish the first book for 2020 was better!
My Readathon 2020 so far
This is a little bit disappointing. The first book of the year is a total flop!. The characters are completely unrelatable and as immature as you can get them. They are supposed to be young women starting college and act and think like they are 11 and about to start high school. The good news it was only the first instalment and I don't want to read the rest. So very little time wasted there. I just wish the first book for 2020 was better!
January 20, 2020
w, I think I have just found another audio book series that I need to collect and add to my collection. I just loved it and this is only the first book and just introducing you to the characters but I am hooked. I really like the different backgrounds and troubles each girl has and the author very cleverly wrote about them in such away that you care for them and want to start the next book to see what happens next.
Marley is a troubled teen but going away from home for the first time to university she wants to start fresh and reinvent herself. The first friend she tries to make is her roommate, shy rich girl Cassie but keeping her secret under cover might prove to be harder than she thought. Marley and Cassie soon meets mean goth girl Eve and secretive and troubled Tyler. While trying to embrace university life the girls head out to a party only for the night to go horrible wrong. But what did really happen?
I liked the narrator and think she does a good job of building up the emotion and suspense in the story.
Marley is a troubled teen but going away from home for the first time to university she wants to start fresh and reinvent herself. The first friend she tries to make is her roommate, shy rich girl Cassie but keeping her secret under cover might prove to be harder than she thought. Marley and Cassie soon meets mean goth girl Eve and secretive and troubled Tyler. While trying to embrace university life the girls head out to a party only for the night to go horrible wrong. But what did really happen?
I liked the narrator and think she does a good job of building up the emotion and suspense in the story.
July 6, 2018
They say you should never judge a book by it's cover, but it was the cover that drew me in. It's so striking! Now, on with the review!
The Good:
This is one fast paced book! It was written with the idea of it being a tv series and that's just how it reads. I could easily imagine it being a 30 minute episode that I curled up on the couch to watch each week or even better, binge on Netflix. Each of the characters is a complex and unique individual and yet somehow come together to make the story work.
The Bad:
It's really tough to find something wrong with this book. I'm not sure how much I enjoy the serial style, but that's not the fault of this book. There were moments that felt slightly done before but then there would be a twist and I'd go nope, never mind.
The Summary:
If you're a lover of serials, the paranormal, and teen girls trying to possibly save the world, this would be a great series for you to check out, especially if you have Kindle Unlimited.
The Good:
This is one fast paced book! It was written with the idea of it being a tv series and that's just how it reads. I could easily imagine it being a 30 minute episode that I curled up on the couch to watch each week or even better, binge on Netflix. Each of the characters is a complex and unique individual and yet somehow come together to make the story work.
The Bad:
It's really tough to find something wrong with this book. I'm not sure how much I enjoy the serial style, but that's not the fault of this book. There were moments that felt slightly done before but then there would be a twist and I'd go nope, never mind.
The Summary:
If you're a lover of serials, the paranormal, and teen girls trying to possibly save the world, this would be a great series for you to check out, especially if you have Kindle Unlimited.
December 29, 2018
This is an intriguing book and definitely left me wanting more. It does read like a TV show and I love that. I could see this on CW and I would definitely watch it if it was filmed the way the book is written. It's easy to see the scenes and to connect with the characters and there's so much suspense it's hard to put down. Thankfully it's so short because otherwise all I would do all day is binge read. Generally I'm not a fan of these short little books but this is so well written and the characters so easy to connect to that I feel like I'm holding my breath until I can read the next one.
*I definitely recommend this book and I definitely want to continue the series* plus! Please make this into a show! CW!! I'm calling on you! This could be your next vampire diaries/originals/secret circle/gossip girl!
*I definitely recommend this book and I definitely want to continue the series* plus! Please make this into a show! CW!! I'm calling on you! This could be your next vampire diaries/originals/secret circle/gossip girl!
March 17, 2020
This was such a phenomenal book. At first I thought it was going to be ANOTHER quick and cute little read about college life. This author has this series set up now in a way that I cant wait to find out whats next. So of course the first thing I do is check my library for more from Jo Ho and sadly nothing. And I like what she said at the end of the book She is 100% right. All her character are so relatable that you can find at least a little piece of your self in each of them! So good!!! PLEASE feel free to email me if you need more reviews for maybe like... book Number 2? (lol) Oh and the narrations was perfect. She has a pleasant sounding, easy to listen to voice. She really brought life to all the characters.
This book was given to me at my request. I am providing a voluntary and honest review.
This book was given to me at my request. I am providing a voluntary and honest review.
November 25, 2019
I really liked the premise of this book. I feel like maybe it was mostly world building and learning the characters for what will be a bigger story. But I also feel like it didn’t go anywhere. And at the end, I was sort of lost as to what was going on or why things were happening like they were. Maybe it’s just me. The big epic action seemed to need more explanation to it. Maybe my mind had wondered during that part because I was leaving work while listening. The author mentioned a tv series which I’m sure would be great. Wish it was in the US.
The narrator did a great job of all the characters. I really enjoyed her.
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The narrator did a great job of all the characters. I really enjoyed her.
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 16, 2018
I’m so intrigued by the entire cast that I want to know more! So much more! Marley, Eve, Taylor and Cassie. My curiosity is piqued I need more information on everyone. I can’t wait for the next book! I opened the book and could not put it down. The characters are so diversified and how they interact with each other, just perfect! Marley has me thinking a lot of things, but can’t say until I know more. Cassie I can almost understand. Taylor seems like a very stable person and Eve has had an odd way about her. To being them all together is a very interesting twist, I can’t wait to learn more!
June 17, 2018
This latest book in Jo Ho's arsenal is a very intriguing beginning to what looks to be a fascinating new series. The primary characters are not the prototypical college cheerleader. They actually have flaws. The swift movement of the plot demonstrates her keen comprehension of keeping the reader engaged, although a little more backstory would not go amiss in a couple of spots. Her characters are compelling young women, although at times their personalities come across a bit muddled. But then again, perhaps the point is that Ms. Ho understands the mindset of the college coed, which can sometimes BE a bit muddled. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series. Recommended.
June 26, 2018
This book is not only exciting but fresh and downright entertaining. I became so engrossed in this story that I didn’t realise that I had read the whole story so quickly until I turned the page and read end of episode 1. It was that good!! The characters are more than just words on a page. They will sweep you up and you will become so entangled in their lives that you will feel like you actually know these people and you will most certainly empathise with parts of each of their stories. The storyline itself has mystery, suspense, drama and intrigue and above all it made me wish that I didn’t have so long to wait for episode 2
July 23, 2018
At first I didn’t think I was going to like this book but I persisted and found that the further I read the more interested in the book I became, so I’m grateful that I kept going. The Book starts a little strange and a little slow and even maybe a little creepy. Then we meet four college girls who don’t seem to have anything in common and the story flows from there. The book ends with the girls having done/seen something strange I’m not telling which of these it is as it will spoil the book. It is a quick and can be read in a few hours. I will be looking forward to reading the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2018
Misfits or superheroes?
Really well written and an engaging storyline but I have read several in the same vein. First day on campus is a mixed day of feelings for 4 misfits. One sees things, one is trying to get her sister back after the death of her parents, one has a poor image of herself and another feels inferior. As the girls meet and mingle they try not to think of the young woman that was murdered only a few days ago. Now they have another mystery - the missing body of the man one of the inadvertently killed. What is going on. Great characters but a bit more background on them would have been welcomed.
Really well written and an engaging storyline but I have read several in the same vein. First day on campus is a mixed day of feelings for 4 misfits. One sees things, one is trying to get her sister back after the death of her parents, one has a poor image of herself and another feels inferior. As the girls meet and mingle they try not to think of the young woman that was murdered only a few days ago. Now they have another mystery - the missing body of the man one of the inadvertently killed. What is going on. Great characters but a bit more background on them would have been welcomed.
July 2, 2018
I received a copy of this for a fair and honest review. I had a little trouble picking a favorite character in this book. I thought that I had at one point then she did something that just bugged me. But Eve, Tyler, Cassie and Marley were just starting to just get to know each other. They seem to have nothing in common at all or do they. This is just a short and easy read, but it is only the start of their adventure together. It has been a bit of a strange and creepy adventure. I need to get my hands on the next one so I can see what happens next. Bang cliffhanger.
July 27, 2018
The beginning of the book was not doing it for me. It was going at a slow pace that I was almost tempted to give up on it but I am glad I chose to finish it. It was rather interesting and it did get better. I am guessing it goes at the pace it does since it is a part of a series, or episodes I should say. It was still good and the ending definitely had me wanting to know what will happen next. I am quite curious to know how this all unravels and turns out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 16, 2018
My fourth read from author Jo Ho & the first book in a new series was well-written & enjoyable, a tale well-woven over the entire length of the short book, the suspense building throughout. Since I own both the Audible & Kindle editions I was able to follow along while being read to. I was impressed and enjoyed the vocal variety & inflections of narrator Allyson Voller. It looks to be the beginning of an enjoyable series that I look forward to reading and have to go out & get the next book in the series. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
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