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Dandelion #1
Dandelion 1
A girl wrestling with her dark side must adapt to a new home with a grim secret...
Dani doesn’t remember how many foster homes she’s lived in. But for the first time in her life, she has a chance at a family of her own. Her foster mother adores her, but her foster father despises her.
Unconditional love could be hers if it wasn’t for him.
Quick-witted and endearingly stubborn, Dani struggles to walk the line. She engages in an epic battle of wills while something much more sinister lurks beneath the surface.
When she finally discovers why he is trying to keep her out of his cornfield, her entire future is at risk. Will the shocking discovery land her back in foster care? Or lead to deadlier consequences?
Dandelion: Origins (Book 1) is the fast-paced, unputdownable introduction to this thought-provoking psychological suspense series... and includes a bonus prequel!
147 pages, ebook
First published February 23, 2020
21 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Jack Kinsley
11 books16 followersJack Kinsley is an American author who writes character-driven suspense. His work has been described as “a truly unique read”, “filled with sharp dialogue”, and having “touches of wicked humor”.
For those who love fiction that is about people as well as plot, Jack Kinsley will push you to the edge of your seat, have you laughing at times, and holding your breath until the end. Writing in a distinct voice, he earns your trust and takes you places you weren’t expecting to go.
Get in touch with Jack Kinsley by visiting his website at: jackkinsley.com
For those who love fiction that is about people as well as plot, Jack Kinsley will push you to the edge of your seat, have you laughing at times, and holding your breath until the end. Writing in a distinct voice, he earns your trust and takes you places you weren’t expecting to go.
Get in touch with Jack Kinsley by visiting his website at: jackkinsley.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
July 20, 2020
This book really took me by surprise! Dandelion is a young girl being fostered by Katherine and Rudy. Katherine is a loving mother who loves her unconditionally, but Rudy is cruel and abusive to his wife, their son Marty and especially Dandelion. But when Dandelion finds a young bobcat and nurses her back to health, Rudy finds it and things take a turn for the worse. Of course things escalate and Dandelion discovers a dark side underneath her sweet demeanor. It's a wild ride for sure, but one you will enjoy until you read the sequel!
Thanks to Voracious Readers for this ARC!
Thanks to Voracious Readers for this ARC!
July 20, 2020
“This too shall pass. Time may not heal all things, but it often makes them bearable.”
“Sometimes a simple compliment, whether true or not, can make all the difference in someone’s day.”
“It takes time to persuade men to do even what is for their own good,” she said ‘quoting Thomas Jefferson’. Then Katherine had added, “And it takes even longer to persuade a fool.”
...I had a hard time keeping at it initially. It captured my interest but life has a way of interfering sometimes. I made time to focus today and it was so good. Emotional and raw, awful at times but in a well-written way. Looking forward to reading the prequel.
Also, I received this book free as part of Voracious Readers. Thank you!
“Sometimes a simple compliment, whether true or not, can make all the difference in someone’s day.”
“It takes time to persuade men to do even what is for their own good,” she said ‘quoting Thomas Jefferson’. Then Katherine had added, “And it takes even longer to persuade a fool.”
...I had a hard time keeping at it initially. It captured my interest but life has a way of interfering sometimes. I made time to focus today and it was so good. Emotional and raw, awful at times but in a well-written way. Looking forward to reading the prequel.
Also, I received this book free as part of Voracious Readers. Thank you!
May 18, 2020
I really enjoyed this novel - which is short enough to be a novella. Dani (short for Dandelion) is a foster child who hopes to have finally found a permanent home on a farm in Iowa. Her new family consists of Katherine, who is the most maternal figure Dani has known, Marty, her foster brother (and biological child), and Rudy, who is decidedly lacking as a father figure.
There is so much to recommend this novel. The world-building is excellent, with a sort of vast claustrophobia dominating as all the action takes place on the family property. Farm life is believably rendered. The one thing that wasn't completely clear to me was when the novel was set -there is a sort of timelessness to it, with the family's general isolation (from cultural and technological touchstones that would have helped with the chronological setting) lending a sense of vague timelessness to the story that I appreciated.
The character building was likewise expertly handled. No doubt the limited cast of characters was of assistance, but the short length of the work counters any advantages this bestowed. There was one character that I wish had been more nuanced as I think that would have made the story a touch more complex for the reader, and would have made the events more emotionally charged. Having said that, the story is centered on Dani, so it would have been extremely difficult to develop this character further without shifting perspectives (which, for the record, I think would have been a mistake).
The only real element of character development that I felt was out of place was in Dani herself - she reads as a fair bit older than her years and, for someone who appears to have experienced a fair amount of trauma in her short years, I felt there should have been behaviours consistent with trauma in children, which can, admittedly, vary enormously. While there were some hints, I didn't feel that these were consistent with my own (limited) understanding.
Still, this novella sucked me in completely, and I'm very much looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received a copy of this novel via Voracious Readers Only.
There is so much to recommend this novel. The world-building is excellent, with a sort of vast claustrophobia dominating as all the action takes place on the family property. Farm life is believably rendered. The one thing that wasn't completely clear to me was when the novel was set -there is a sort of timelessness to it, with the family's general isolation (from cultural and technological touchstones that would have helped with the chronological setting) lending a sense of vague timelessness to the story that I appreciated.
The character building was likewise expertly handled. No doubt the limited cast of characters was of assistance, but the short length of the work counters any advantages this bestowed. There was one character that I wish had been more nuanced as I think that would have made the story a touch more complex for the reader, and would have made the events more emotionally charged. Having said that, the story is centered on Dani, so it would have been extremely difficult to develop this character further without shifting perspectives (which, for the record, I think would have been a mistake).
The only real element of character development that I felt was out of place was in Dani herself - she reads as a fair bit older than her years and, for someone who appears to have experienced a fair amount of trauma in her short years, I felt there should have been behaviours consistent with trauma in children, which can, admittedly, vary enormously. While there were some hints, I didn't feel that these were consistent with my own (limited) understanding.
Still, this novella sucked me in completely, and I'm very much looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received a copy of this novel via Voracious Readers Only.
August 27, 2020
*content warning for this book: sexual assault/rape, child abuse, sexual assault of a child, suicide*
- I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review -
I have to admit I'm very much struggling to rate this book. The writing on its own is beautiful - cohesive, well written, very good grasp of word as art. However this book literally had me googling the criteria for psychological thriller - the characters, the setting, the first three quarters of the novel are all quite gripping, but it didn't read as psychological thriller. There is no real suspense, no twists and turns, none of the elongated and drawn out head-messery you expect from the genre. A rural-gothic-y setting is beautifully evoked, the characters are well created. But the tempo isn't right at all - a slow character driven narrative is wound, and then suddenly bam bam bam bad things happen all at once in a row. Are the bad things shocking? Absolutely. As a reader I think you're meant to have cared a lot more about whatever secret is going on in the corn field - but that feeling isn't properly evoked, and then suddenly its that a boy is being raped there. Its repulsive, it makes the reader recoil. And then that boy kills himself. The first three quarters of this book are incredibly slow and the ending is just a very fast and weird shock. I think sexual assault as a narrative device needs to be very carefully considered, and I don't think that was the case here at all. Suspense could have been built much more effectively, and the Big Terrible Thing could have been something else entirely, or at least not felt like there really needed to be a big shock so why not the sexual assault of a child. It just really jarred, seemed like shock value, and was a really disappointing ending for a novel that displays such skill with the written word itself.
- I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review -
I have to admit I'm very much struggling to rate this book. The writing on its own is beautiful - cohesive, well written, very good grasp of word as art. However this book literally had me googling the criteria for psychological thriller - the characters, the setting, the first three quarters of the novel are all quite gripping, but it didn't read as psychological thriller. There is no real suspense, no twists and turns, none of the elongated and drawn out head-messery you expect from the genre. A rural-gothic-y setting is beautifully evoked, the characters are well created. But the tempo isn't right at all - a slow character driven narrative is wound, and then suddenly bam bam bam bad things happen all at once in a row. Are the bad things shocking? Absolutely. As a reader I think you're meant to have cared a lot more about whatever secret is going on in the corn field - but that feeling isn't properly evoked, and then suddenly its that a boy is being raped there. Its repulsive, it makes the reader recoil. And then that boy kills himself. The first three quarters of this book are incredibly slow and the ending is just a very fast and weird shock. I think sexual assault as a narrative device needs to be very carefully considered, and I don't think that was the case here at all. Suspense could have been built much more effectively, and the Big Terrible Thing could have been something else entirely, or at least not felt like there really needed to be a big shock so why not the sexual assault of a child. It just really jarred, seemed like shock value, and was a really disappointing ending for a novel that displays such skill with the written word itself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2021
First, I owe Mr. Kinsley an apology. I requested his book Danelion Wild from Voracious Readers, had a problem downloading, and didn't read. Then, when asked if I enjoyed, I realized that I wanted to read, went to Amazon to purchase...and now I've read this very page turning book! Mr. Kinsley, forgive me for taking so long to review such a fast paced, character driving read!
Have you heard of this book? If not, let me tell you...it's good.
Setting the stage in the beginning, a woman escapes from prison. After watching another woman with a baby and her habits, the escapee kidnaps the baby. After police pursuit, and a car accident...it is known that the baby is actually hers. "Her name is Dandelion!"
Nine year old "Dani" has been bounced from foster home to foster home, just wanting to be loved. She has found that love in Katherine, her new foster mother. However, Rudy, her foster father DOES NOT LIKE HER. She knows Rudy is hiding something, but what? When she finally finds out his secret, will she tell? If she does, will she be put back into the system? Or, will he kill her if she speaks, as he's said he will...many times?
This was a fast paced thriller about a nine year old just wanting to feel secure in a family environment. As like all of us, she just wants to be loved unconditionally. She also knows this about herself..."Dani has a mean streak like a rabid dog, and she couldn't always keep it on a chain."
This is the first in the Dandelion series. I, for one, have already downloaded Dandelion #2!! Mr. Kinsley, I look forward to continuing watching Dani grow into a teenager, then a woman...and see how that mean streak continually 'saves' her!
Quick and satisfying thriller...I read this first book in a day! Those who know me, know, that is saying something!! This is a TBR add!
Have you heard of this book? If not, let me tell you...it's good.
Setting the stage in the beginning, a woman escapes from prison. After watching another woman with a baby and her habits, the escapee kidnaps the baby. After police pursuit, and a car accident...it is known that the baby is actually hers. "Her name is Dandelion!"
Nine year old "Dani" has been bounced from foster home to foster home, just wanting to be loved. She has found that love in Katherine, her new foster mother. However, Rudy, her foster father DOES NOT LIKE HER. She knows Rudy is hiding something, but what? When she finally finds out his secret, will she tell? If she does, will she be put back into the system? Or, will he kill her if she speaks, as he's said he will...many times?
This was a fast paced thriller about a nine year old just wanting to feel secure in a family environment. As like all of us, she just wants to be loved unconditionally. She also knows this about herself..."Dani has a mean streak like a rabid dog, and she couldn't always keep it on a chain."
This is the first in the Dandelion series. I, for one, have already downloaded Dandelion #2!! Mr. Kinsley, I look forward to continuing watching Dani grow into a teenager, then a woman...and see how that mean streak continually 'saves' her!
Quick and satisfying thriller...I read this first book in a day! Those who know me, know, that is saying something!! This is a TBR add!
July 25, 2020
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This novella really should have started at about the halfway point. The first part is long and boring and I almost gave up reading it because it felt like it was going nowhere. It was a bit convenient that in one moment Rudy mentions that he'd shoot a bobcat and then the next minute she just happens to find an injured bobcat kitten. While I assume the purpose of the first half of the book was to get us to know Dani and Tanner and see Rudy's cruelty, it just took up too much space, since we knew something interesting was coming.
The characters were all pretty unlikeable. Rudy's only purpose in the book seemed to be to make everybody else miserable. Why would anybody put up with him? Kathryn seems to be an intelligent and intuitive woman yet explains to Dani that she needs a husband to what? exist in her own right *eyeroll, yawn* and somehow she completely misses or excuses all the abuse. Really she could have thrown him out and hired a farmhand.
Dani's character is unrealistic. She's seven but seems to act more like a young teenager at times and then a toddler at others. I get that she's had an awful upbringing but her development is way off which is a bit frustrating.
About half-way through the book, things start to get interesting and the books pick up its pace. The second half was great and I read it in one sitting. The climax was oddly satisfying but unfortunately, it finished just as it started to get good.
This novella really should have started at about the halfway point. The first part is long and boring and I almost gave up reading it because it felt like it was going nowhere. It was a bit convenient that in one moment Rudy mentions that he'd shoot a bobcat and then the next minute she just happens to find an injured bobcat kitten. While I assume the purpose of the first half of the book was to get us to know Dani and Tanner and see Rudy's cruelty, it just took up too much space, since we knew something interesting was coming.
The characters were all pretty unlikeable. Rudy's only purpose in the book seemed to be to make everybody else miserable. Why would anybody put up with him? Kathryn seems to be an intelligent and intuitive woman yet explains to Dani that she needs a husband to what? exist in her own right *eyeroll, yawn* and somehow she completely misses or excuses all the abuse. Really she could have thrown him out and hired a farmhand.
Dani's character is unrealistic. She's seven but seems to act more like a young teenager at times and then a toddler at others. I get that she's had an awful upbringing but her development is way off which is a bit frustrating.
About half-way through the book, things start to get interesting and the books pick up its pace. The second half was great and I read it in one sitting. The climax was oddly satisfying but unfortunately, it finished just as it started to get good.
February 28, 2020
Dandelion Woodbury, know as Dani, is a beautiful little girl who has been tossed around in the foster care system. She has finally come to live with Rudy, Katherine, and Marty Long. Katherine is a wonderful woman who has a heart full of love, and who Dani comes to feel is her mother. Rudy, however, is a cruel man, who goes out of his way to intimidate and belittle Dani. Dani finds and nurses to health an orphaned bobcat kitten, which she has to keep hidden, as Rudy violently hates bobcats. She develops a fast friendship, with Tanner, a troubled teenager who works for Rudy. Together they hide and nurture the little bobcat. Rudy discovers the kitten and shoots it, and shames Tanner for his part in both befriending Dani and hiding the bobcat. As the book progresses Rudy's evil nature is manifested as he endeavors to destroy every good thing in the lives of those around him. This was a wonderful book that makes you look at some of the sad truths in our culture today. It was a little short, but the conclusion was certainly done well. I am looking forward to reading the other books to come in the series. I got this advance copy from Voracious Readers Only.
May 10, 2020
Received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author via voracious readers only in exchange for an honest review.
This is the sad tale of poor Dani, a young girl who is desperate to find the love and acceptance of a family after she has been passed around in the care system. Trying to settle down in her most recent family she has to deal with the obnoxious father Rudy, a man who has a short temper and ever changing rules. His wife however, is exactly the loving mother she has been craving for all of her short life. More pleasure enters her life when one day she encounters an injured bobcat kitten and then becomes firm friends with Tanner, the hired hand on the farm and Marty her foster brother, as they unite to keep their secret hidden from Rudy. Secrets never stay hidden for long and when the kitten is discovered Dani’s hatred of Rudy intensifies until the story reaches its sad conclusion.
A real page turner with well written characters and their developing relationships, young Dani is such a likeable character even when her scar starts to itch and burn and her darker side is revealed!
This is the sad tale of poor Dani, a young girl who is desperate to find the love and acceptance of a family after she has been passed around in the care system. Trying to settle down in her most recent family she has to deal with the obnoxious father Rudy, a man who has a short temper and ever changing rules. His wife however, is exactly the loving mother she has been craving for all of her short life. More pleasure enters her life when one day she encounters an injured bobcat kitten and then becomes firm friends with Tanner, the hired hand on the farm and Marty her foster brother, as they unite to keep their secret hidden from Rudy. Secrets never stay hidden for long and when the kitten is discovered Dani’s hatred of Rudy intensifies until the story reaches its sad conclusion.
A real page turner with well written characters and their developing relationships, young Dani is such a likeable character even when her scar starts to itch and burn and her darker side is revealed!
June 1, 2021
Wow what have I just read?!?!
I've not had a feeling of horror instilled in my body from reading a book for a long time. This book in its short number of pages has brought a million different feelings and transported me right into Dani's world. With the smaller novels you tend to get a lack of description but here Jack Kingsley hasn't skimped at all.
Some of the scenes are quite dark but have made this novel a real masterpiece. It is not for the faint hearted and I must warn there are trigger worthy undercurrents including abuse of all kinds.
The ending to the novel was so beautifully written Im so glad there is an element of karma to this book. Dani seemed to get her sense of justice in the end, and to be quite frank to the story, she wouldn't have been able to do much considering the situation I think. Even if she helped out the situation would have been the same.
I received this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only for the pleasure of reading and leaving an honest review.
I've not had a feeling of horror instilled in my body from reading a book for a long time. This book in its short number of pages has brought a million different feelings and transported me right into Dani's world. With the smaller novels you tend to get a lack of description but here Jack Kingsley hasn't skimped at all.
Some of the scenes are quite dark but have made this novel a real masterpiece. It is not for the faint hearted and I must warn there are trigger worthy undercurrents including abuse of all kinds.
The ending to the novel was so beautifully written Im so glad there is an element of karma to this book. Dani seemed to get her sense of justice in the end, and to be quite frank to the story, she wouldn't have been able to do much considering the situation I think. Even if she helped out the situation would have been the same.
I received this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only for the pleasure of reading and leaving an honest review.
February 26, 2020
*I received a free copy of this book from the author via voracious readers only in exchange for an honest review*
This is a story about a young girl passed from foster home to foster home struggling to find love and acceptance who eventually finds what she craves in her newest foster mother Katherine. Unfortunately she also comes with the most unpleasant foster father who goes out of his way to insure she knows how much she is worth in his eyes, nothing.
Dani is a strong and determined young girl who despite everything that’s happened to her refuses to give up and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. I found myself growing more attached to her character as she persevered through each heartbreaking situation, far more than any child should have to witness or live through.
This book kept me interested and didn’t feel lacking in depth despite it being so short, I would definitely read more from this author in the future.
This is a story about a young girl passed from foster home to foster home struggling to find love and acceptance who eventually finds what she craves in her newest foster mother Katherine. Unfortunately she also comes with the most unpleasant foster father who goes out of his way to insure she knows how much she is worth in his eyes, nothing.
Dani is a strong and determined young girl who despite everything that’s happened to her refuses to give up and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. I found myself growing more attached to her character as she persevered through each heartbreaking situation, far more than any child should have to witness or live through.
This book kept me interested and didn’t feel lacking in depth despite it being so short, I would definitely read more from this author in the future.
May 24, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this book through VoraciousReaderOnly, and was curious after reading the summary. I didn't know what to expect at first, but the writing style of Jack Kinsley is absorbing you quickly in the story. I'm a very visual person and the descriptions made me feel like I was really there.
Even though the book is quite short, only 10 chapters, it is a pleasant ride. Most of the story is dedicated to presenting and fleshing out the main characters. But those three last chapters are what really made this reading worth the time. I've rarely felt so many different emotions while reading a book. It ends on such a dramatic note that you will want to read the next book for sure (and also the prequel!).
The only thing I have to say against this story is that Dani, the main character, didn't really felt like a 7 year old to me... even considering her difficult past, the vocabulary she used, her behavior and her reactions felt more like a 10-12 year old.
Even though the book is quite short, only 10 chapters, it is a pleasant ride. Most of the story is dedicated to presenting and fleshing out the main characters. But those three last chapters are what really made this reading worth the time. I've rarely felt so many different emotions while reading a book. It ends on such a dramatic note that you will want to read the next book for sure (and also the prequel!).
The only thing I have to say against this story is that Dani, the main character, didn't really felt like a 7 year old to me... even considering her difficult past, the vocabulary she used, her behavior and her reactions felt more like a 10-12 year old.
May 24, 2020
I received a copy of this from voracious readers only for and honest review.
I loved the descriptive style of writing, it really created a picture in your mind of how the story went.
I wanted to know a bit more about Dani ( how she came to be in foster care, how did she get heat scar?) and then found the prequel at the end of the book, what a treat.
The book is about relationships, how they develop, how they intertwine and how intimidating they can be.
Katherine is full of love and nurturing towards Marty and Dani, Rudy is resentful and spiteful to everyone and tries to buy their silence with gifts. Tanner is a troubled teen and his relationship is different with each character (shy and timid with some, open with others).
The story of farm life and how secluded it can be leads to how all their secrets can be kept.
I enjoyed the story very much and wanted to pick up the next installment straight away.
I loved the descriptive style of writing, it really created a picture in your mind of how the story went.
I wanted to know a bit more about Dani ( how she came to be in foster care, how did she get heat scar?) and then found the prequel at the end of the book, what a treat.
The book is about relationships, how they develop, how they intertwine and how intimidating they can be.
Katherine is full of love and nurturing towards Marty and Dani, Rudy is resentful and spiteful to everyone and tries to buy their silence with gifts. Tanner is a troubled teen and his relationship is different with each character (shy and timid with some, open with others).
The story of farm life and how secluded it can be leads to how all their secrets can be kept.
I enjoyed the story very much and wanted to pick up the next installment straight away.
March 5, 2020
A page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat with an intensity that grabs you and just won't let you put it down. It gives us (sadly) an accurate depiction of the reality of the foster care system. You can't help but fall in love with this eight year old as she has really been through and seen more that most kids her age. She thinks she may have finally found 'her family,' Read this book and find out if this was the place she belong and just how the story plays out. Tender moments, evil moments and lots of interesting events that are emotional and stirring for both the characters and the readers...and a good ending that pulled the entire book together for me. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the story. I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
July 4, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers
Only, although my review will be honest, regardless of this.
I rather enjoyed this book and found it interesting, with the main character, Dani, a young girl in an impossible situation, being easy to empathize with. I found right from the beginning, I wanted to learn more about the girl and the family that had taken her in. When I had more information, the writer just kept reeling me in with his suspenseful storylines. I was so interested in the character by the end of the book, that I also downloaded the prequel, a story of Dani’s origins, and may even read the next book in the collection, if I can get through the stack of summer reading I already have to go through. I would recommend this mystery for high school students and adult readers.
Only, although my review will be honest, regardless of this.
I rather enjoyed this book and found it interesting, with the main character, Dani, a young girl in an impossible situation, being easy to empathize with. I found right from the beginning, I wanted to learn more about the girl and the family that had taken her in. When I had more information, the writer just kept reeling me in with his suspenseful storylines. I was so interested in the character by the end of the book, that I also downloaded the prequel, a story of Dani’s origins, and may even read the next book in the collection, if I can get through the stack of summer reading I already have to go through. I would recommend this mystery for high school students and adult readers.
September 29, 2021
I received a free copy via Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
The book is about a nine years old orphan girl, Dandelion Woodbury. She has been passed from one family to the other and currently living with Katherine who is always nice to her, a foster brother named Marty, and a fifteen years old Tanner who works at the family farm. Unfortunately for her, it's not all sunshine and rainbows since there is her horrible foster father, Rudy.
At the start of the book where Evelyn Woodbury attempts to kidnap her daughter, it's very intense that it gives a good first impression on the book. Afterwards, it's also fun to see Dandelion's smart remarks whenever she's with Rudy. There's also a sexual assault in this book, so if it triggers you, then it's best if you skip this one.
Overall, it's a nice book! I definitely would recommend it to others.
The book is about a nine years old orphan girl, Dandelion Woodbury. She has been passed from one family to the other and currently living with Katherine who is always nice to her, a foster brother named Marty, and a fifteen years old Tanner who works at the family farm. Unfortunately for her, it's not all sunshine and rainbows since there is her horrible foster father, Rudy.
At the start of the book where Evelyn Woodbury attempts to kidnap her daughter, it's very intense that it gives a good first impression on the book. Afterwards, it's also fun to see Dandelion's smart remarks whenever she's with Rudy. There's also a sexual assault in this book, so if it triggers you, then it's best if you skip this one.
Overall, it's a nice book! I definitely would recommend it to others.
May 9, 2020
Take the time to read this, you absolutely will not regret it. I enjoyed this book so much, I can’t wait for the next instalment. What a surprise it was, a 7 year old girl, living on a farm - so what? But it draws you straight in, feeling Dandelion’s emotions, curious about her past, her present and the hints about her possible future. She seems so much more than a child, but still a child with her responses and feelings. Just fascinating. The characters were all simply, yet deeply drawn, I can’t quite explain. Just beautifully written, a building feeling of suspense, knowing something is going to happen but no idea what. What a buzz when you do get to the end, I cannot wait to see what comes next, I can foresee many books featuring this wonderful character Dandelion.
June 3, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! The writing is top notch. I definitely recommend it.
The novel is very short and there are only a few characters, all of whom are developed so well that I felt that I knew these people. The title character, Dani, is intriguing and sympathetic, despite her anger.
My only complaint about the book was that I found it unrealistic for Dani to be so young - a seven/eight year old would not be able to understand and process the events of novel as she did. I think that Dani should have been about eleven for the story to be believable.
I’m looking forward to reading the prequel and the rest of the Dandelion series!
FYI: I received a complimentary copy of the novel from the author through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
The novel is very short and there are only a few characters, all of whom are developed so well that I felt that I knew these people. The title character, Dani, is intriguing and sympathetic, despite her anger.
My only complaint about the book was that I found it unrealistic for Dani to be so young - a seven/eight year old would not be able to understand and process the events of novel as she did. I think that Dani should have been about eleven for the story to be believable.
I’m looking forward to reading the prequel and the rest of the Dandelion series!
FYI: I received a complimentary copy of the novel from the author through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2021
Wow! What an amazing book by Jack Kinsley! You know a book is going to be a page turner when the author is able to capture your attention from the very beginning! From chapter one Jack Kinsley had me wanting to know all about this sweet, brave, strong little girl named Dandelion.
During the course of this novel, I grew to love Dandelion and her foster family with the exception of Rudy. Dandelion’s abusively mean and angry foster father.
Jack Kinsley writes in a way where each character comes to life. You knew each character and you either loved them or hated them.
This book exceeded all of my expectations and them some! I can’t wait to follow Dandelion in the Wild series!
Thank you Various Readers Only for a free copy of this book.
During the course of this novel, I grew to love Dandelion and her foster family with the exception of Rudy. Dandelion’s abusively mean and angry foster father.
Jack Kinsley writes in a way where each character comes to life. You knew each character and you either loved them or hated them.
This book exceeded all of my expectations and them some! I can’t wait to follow Dandelion in the Wild series!
Thank you Various Readers Only for a free copy of this book.
March 17, 2020
I received this book free from Voracious Readers and the author to read and review.
This book introduced Dani (Dandelion) to us. I wasn't sure about this book from the description but it was well written and you feel as if you know the characters. You can taste her innocence and compassion, but the story gets darker and that is what I liked. It is not a very long book but soon draws you in, although I would have preferred a longer book rather than a short book and a sequel. There is also a prequel which I did not know until I got to the end. I am hopeful the prequel moves a little darker (I'm thinking Dexter like?)
Well worth a read.
This book introduced Dani (Dandelion) to us. I wasn't sure about this book from the description but it was well written and you feel as if you know the characters. You can taste her innocence and compassion, but the story gets darker and that is what I liked. It is not a very long book but soon draws you in, although I would have preferred a longer book rather than a short book and a sequel. There is also a prequel which I did not know until I got to the end. I am hopeful the prequel moves a little darker (I'm thinking Dexter like?)
Well worth a read.
May 24, 2020
*Received a free copy from Voracious Readers in exchange of a honest review*
Starts of ordinary enough, introduced to the main character, Dani with her opinions of other characters clearly stated. I'd just like to say, I bet that no one will be able to predict why Rudy doesn't want her in the field. Many unexpected twists and turns in the plot serve in creating an original, dark story; which will have you wondering just what evils are mankind truly capable of living with.
Overall, an interesting read with the length being suitable for those who wish to read but do not have a lot of free time. Very eager to see how the story of Dani continues.
Starts of ordinary enough, introduced to the main character, Dani with her opinions of other characters clearly stated. I'd just like to say, I bet that no one will be able to predict why Rudy doesn't want her in the field. Many unexpected twists and turns in the plot serve in creating an original, dark story; which will have you wondering just what evils are mankind truly capable of living with.
Overall, an interesting read with the length being suitable for those who wish to read but do not have a lot of free time. Very eager to see how the story of Dani continues.
July 2, 2020
TAG: Dandelion, Jack Kinsey, realistic/speculative fiction
Summary: Young Dandelion (or Dani), a foster kid, lives with a family on a corn farm in Iowa. While Dani loves the underprivileged mother and her son, she strongly resents the loveless father. Through a carefully thought-out tale, Kinsey illustrates Dandelion's moral corruption as she clashes with her foster father and battles the "wild" instincts that plague her mind.
Review:
(1) Characters: 9.5/10
This story absolutely thrives on the actions, personalities, and development of Kinsey's characters. We've got Dandelion, the rambunctious, stubborn, complex protagonist; Katherine, her quietly strong, loving foster mother; Tanner, the quiet farm hand with more secrets than anyone else; and Rudy, the hateful father. Kinsey does a stellar job of voicing each of these characters and keeping their personalities distinct and consistent.
(2) Plot: 9/10
The plot is almost exclusively character-driven, and is well-executed on Kinsey's part. Even when there is little to no conflict, there is adequate suspense and tension present as the reader is immersed in Dani's life and her perspectives. The story is filled with figurative language and devices and is guaranteed to leave the reader thinking once they close the book.
(3) Worldbuilding: 9/10
The story is suggested to take place in the 1980s or 1990s, on a corn farm in rural Iowa. Kinsey successfully utilizes this world to its full potential, creating characters and plot lines that are heavily influenced by it. Normally you wouldn't expect such a setting to be interesting, but in Kinsey's case you can definitely make an exception.
Overall, Jack Kinsey has brought to the literary table a thoughtful and page-turning work. With excellent prose, compelling and proactive characters, and a suspenseful plot, Dandelion will leave readers wishing there was more (and there is!). Kinsey's work is perfect for fans of Of Mice and Men, corruption arcs, and unique characters.
*There is heavy language, gore, peril, and sexual assault in Dandelion.
Summary: Young Dandelion (or Dani), a foster kid, lives with a family on a corn farm in Iowa. While Dani loves the underprivileged mother and her son, she strongly resents the loveless father. Through a carefully thought-out tale, Kinsey illustrates Dandelion's moral corruption as she clashes with her foster father and battles the "wild" instincts that plague her mind.
Review:
(1) Characters: 9.5/10
This story absolutely thrives on the actions, personalities, and development of Kinsey's characters. We've got Dandelion, the rambunctious, stubborn, complex protagonist; Katherine, her quietly strong, loving foster mother; Tanner, the quiet farm hand with more secrets than anyone else; and Rudy, the hateful father. Kinsey does a stellar job of voicing each of these characters and keeping their personalities distinct and consistent.
(2) Plot: 9/10
The plot is almost exclusively character-driven, and is well-executed on Kinsey's part. Even when there is little to no conflict, there is adequate suspense and tension present as the reader is immersed in Dani's life and her perspectives. The story is filled with figurative language and devices and is guaranteed to leave the reader thinking once they close the book.
(3) Worldbuilding: 9/10
The story is suggested to take place in the 1980s or 1990s, on a corn farm in rural Iowa. Kinsey successfully utilizes this world to its full potential, creating characters and plot lines that are heavily influenced by it. Normally you wouldn't expect such a setting to be interesting, but in Kinsey's case you can definitely make an exception.
Overall, Jack Kinsey has brought to the literary table a thoughtful and page-turning work. With excellent prose, compelling and proactive characters, and a suspenseful plot, Dandelion will leave readers wishing there was more (and there is!). Kinsey's work is perfect for fans of Of Mice and Men, corruption arcs, and unique characters.
*There is heavy language, gore, peril, and sexual assault in Dandelion.
July 15, 2020
Dandelion is a book about a girl Dani(Dandelion) who has been in foster homes all her young life and craving for love and acceptance. When she finally settles down with a family,she has to deal with her obnoxious foster father Rudy.
This book is the first one in "Dandelion" series.
The book has a strong Character development although i was confused at Dani's behavior at times towards people in general. I liked the story plot and its smooth pace.The book is very engaging and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in series.
I got free review copy from the author via voracious readers only in exchange for an honest feedback.
This book is the first one in "Dandelion" series.
The book has a strong Character development although i was confused at Dani's behavior at times towards people in general. I liked the story plot and its smooth pace.The book is very engaging and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in series.
I got free review copy from the author via voracious readers only in exchange for an honest feedback.
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September 9, 2020The writing helped you see the story in your head so that you can experience it in a way that goes beyond reading and root for the girl its center, with all her grit, as well as the supporting characters. The ending surprised me in many ways and definitely explores some darker sides of human nature. If you are easily triggered due to past trauma or experiences, this may be difficult for you. Otherwise, you are left wondering what happens next in this little girls' life, which means the story kind of stays with you. If you like psychological suspense, this will probably be a good book for you.
February 14, 2021
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
This book was quite different to the normal style that I read but I was curious after reading the blurb so decided to give it a shot. I found the writing beautiful with the characters and settings appearing vividly in my mind but the book did start off quite slow and I feel that it didn’t build up to the epitome as well as I would have liked it to. Having said that I would still recommend it as it brings light to many issues that I think we are all guilty of sometimes choosing to ignore the presence of.
This book was quite different to the normal style that I read but I was curious after reading the blurb so decided to give it a shot. I found the writing beautiful with the characters and settings appearing vividly in my mind but the book did start off quite slow and I feel that it didn’t build up to the epitome as well as I would have liked it to. Having said that I would still recommend it as it brings light to many issues that I think we are all guilty of sometimes choosing to ignore the presence of.
May 11, 2020
I got this book free from voracious readers. I loved the story as soon as I started to read it. It grabs you and you just want to keep going, there wasn’t a point in which I could put the book down for later. So I read it all in one sitting.
The main characters Dandelion and Rudy are beautifully written, I love the way Dandelion stands up for herself against a bully.
The ending is truly wonderful. Rudy gets exactly what he deserves.
Dandelion is a calm but cold girl, it will be great to see how her character progresses.
The main characters Dandelion and Rudy are beautifully written, I love the way Dandelion stands up for herself against a bully.
The ending is truly wonderful. Rudy gets exactly what he deserves.
Dandelion is a calm but cold girl, it will be great to see how her character progresses.
August 18, 2020
Read this book in one sitting. Grips you from the start. Dani is a sympathetic foster child looking for love and safety in a scary world. But you sense right away that she is also a survivor and there is more to her than meets the eye. The story line moves right along and is not totally unpredictable but characters are well drawn and as is their setting. Definitely will be looking for book 2 to learn more about Dani and who or what made her the person she is becoming. This book was provided to me by Voracious Readers
November 27, 2020
I received a digital copy of this book via Voracious Readers in return for a review.
I was thoroughly drawn into this story by the beautifuly descriptive writing style of the author and the way he developed his characters. The book has a dark feeling right from the beginning but even so I found the dry wit of the leading character Dani caused me to laugh out loud at times. This book leaves you wanting more, I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series and seeing how Dani further develops.
I was thoroughly drawn into this story by the beautifuly descriptive writing style of the author and the way he developed his characters. The book has a dark feeling right from the beginning but even so I found the dry wit of the leading character Dani caused me to laugh out loud at times. This book leaves you wanting more, I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series and seeing how Dani further develops.
September 24, 2021
Kindle Copy for Review
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story of a girl growing up in foster care as she is taken in. The family dynamics that arise being cherish and yet despise at the same time by the people who has promised to keep you safe.
Strong willed as she uncovers sinister things that will destroy her sense of home as secrets about her foster dad will surface. Will this knowledge lead her back into the system or will it be her demise?
A stark and grimacing suspense novel.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story of a girl growing up in foster care as she is taken in. The family dynamics that arise being cherish and yet despise at the same time by the people who has promised to keep you safe.
Strong willed as she uncovers sinister things that will destroy her sense of home as secrets about her foster dad will surface. Will this knowledge lead her back into the system or will it be her demise?
A stark and grimacing suspense novel.
February 29, 2020
That was a brilliant read. THis is the story of Dani growing up in a foster home with a loving mother and the dynamics of relationships between the different members. The love and the hate - it was all there and very much felt. It was a short read but all the characters were so vivid. The author has done an absolutely great job of bringing emotions to the fore. I really cant write much more without giving away the story. Suffice it to say that the book was impossible to put down and I cant wait for the next part.
February 29, 2020
Dandelion questions everyday where she came from? Who her parents were? About the strange scar on her arm?
In and out of foster care for as long as she can remember. This time though she truly believes shes found where she belongs. One person stands in her way though. She is told to stay out of the corn field at all costs. What is it, that her foster father doesn't want her to discover. One day she sees the truth for herself......
In and out of foster care for as long as she can remember. This time though she truly believes shes found where she belongs. One person stands in her way though. She is told to stay out of the corn field at all costs. What is it, that her foster father doesn't want her to discover. One day she sees the truth for herself......
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