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The Nine #1
The Nine: Origins
The power of the one is the power of the many. Eighteen-year-old Blake Wilder usually hides her ability to see pivotal moments in other people’s pasts and futures, but when a premonition compels her to save a classmate’s life, she’s drawn into a centuries-old paranormal society on the brink of civil war. As she struggles to find her way within a world of political intrigue and shifting alliances, her path is complicated by a budding romance with Nicholas, the chancellor’s son, and her attraction to Jessie, a man who makes up the rules as he goes. However, Blake will soon learn the truism that all is fair in love and war, especially when power is at stake. When she witnesses a series of bizarre murders that have not yet occurred, it’s not long before the killer learns of her visions. Blake must decide whether to trust her head or her heart in a race to unmask the murderer before she is the next to die.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 11, 2022
6 people are currently reading
1908 people want to read
About the author
Kes Trester
5 books68 followersA native of Los Angeles, Kes Trester is a former feature film development executive, independent film producer, and television commercial producer. In an attempt to raise kids who could actually pick their mom out of a line up, Kes turned to writing full-time. Her contemporary novels for young adults are cinematic, fast-paced, and above all, fun. Add an understanding husband and a pack of rescue dogs to the mix, and that’s also an apt description of life in the busy Trester household.
If you'd like to reach Kes or her representatives, please see the contact form at KesTrester.com.
If you'd like to reach Kes or her representatives, please see the contact form at KesTrester.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
September 4, 2022
It was so much easier not to feel anything after Mum died, but you're so bloody alive it almost hurts, and it doesn't scare me anymore.
This book was definitely not bad. I enjoyed reading it and I would say it is an easy read. But it was not amazing either. The characters are likeable, at least some of them and the premise is really good. The execution could've been better. I would've liked more complexity in the storyline and the character development.
Thank you NetGalley for the arc, looking forward to reading more.
This book was definitely not bad. I enjoyed reading it and I would say it is an easy read. But it was not amazing either. The characters are likeable, at least some of them and the premise is really good. The execution could've been better. I would've liked more complexity in the storyline and the character development.
Thank you NetGalley for the arc, looking forward to reading more.
November 8, 2022
The Nine: Origins is a promising introduction to this fantasy series. It is an ambitious mix of the supernatural and coming of age. Upon browsing Netgalley I found this intriguing book, the synopsis sounded awesome, and the book cover had me instantly hitting request. I was instantly hit with the passion and love poured into this book. Instantly I was hit with characters that sparked with life. Combing the elements, foresight, telekinesis, and the other six special gifts. It’s not easy to combine these elements into a fantasy story but Kes Trester achieved it with relative ease.
The Nine: Origins is the first book in The Nine series. Blake Wilder, 18, can see pivotal moments in other people’s lives. It seems enhanced by the power of touch and hasn’t caused the loss of lives so far. That all changes when she witnesses a car crash that will affect the future of a boy she goes to school with. This event leads her to meet Nicholas the son of the Chancellor of a secret organisation that could potentially be falling apart at the seams. She needs to pick sides, but whom can she trust? She is a powerful voyant and is a strong card to hold on either side, her alliance could be the deciding factor on who could win the power struggle.
This story isn’t bad by any account, but I did struggle with certain elements of it. The pacing of the story seemed to be inconsistent, and I went through periods of not being able to turn the pages quickly enough to finding some of the chapters a bore. The relationship between Blake and her best friend, Scarlett felt very stilted, and I personally didn’t feel that Scarlett had much of a role except to be Blake’s best friend. It was mildly frustrating. The Romance between Nicolas and Blake seemed very fast, even for young adults. I would’ve personally preferred a slower burn over a few books, I believe that would’ve created more of a realistic timeline of things.
Overall, a great book with a killer premise, I just personally felt the execution was somewhat lacking.
The Nine: Origins is the first book in The Nine series. Blake Wilder, 18, can see pivotal moments in other people’s lives. It seems enhanced by the power of touch and hasn’t caused the loss of lives so far. That all changes when she witnesses a car crash that will affect the future of a boy she goes to school with. This event leads her to meet Nicholas the son of the Chancellor of a secret organisation that could potentially be falling apart at the seams. She needs to pick sides, but whom can she trust? She is a powerful voyant and is a strong card to hold on either side, her alliance could be the deciding factor on who could win the power struggle.
This story isn’t bad by any account, but I did struggle with certain elements of it. The pacing of the story seemed to be inconsistent, and I went through periods of not being able to turn the pages quickly enough to finding some of the chapters a bore. The relationship between Blake and her best friend, Scarlett felt very stilted, and I personally didn’t feel that Scarlett had much of a role except to be Blake’s best friend. It was mildly frustrating. The Romance between Nicolas and Blake seemed very fast, even for young adults. I would’ve personally preferred a slower burn over a few books, I believe that would’ve created more of a realistic timeline of things.
Overall, a great book with a killer premise, I just personally felt the execution was somewhat lacking.
December 11, 2024
This was a good start to a new series, a paranormal adventure mixed with a coming of age story. I liked the idea of our FMC growing and trying to find her own way, but she was swayed each way fairly easily. I hope as the series continues she continues to grow into her own. Plotwise there wasn’t many surprises, I anticipated pretty much all of the twists, events, and nefarious plans. It was still a good read, giving off cozy vibes even with people dropping like flies.
Blake has only ever wanted to blend in. When you get visions of people’s past and futures, that is hard to do. College is a new beginning. But when the guy next to her borrows a pen and makes accidental contact, she sees danger. But if she warns him, she will be known as that weird girl again. When a stranger confronts her on campus and knows about her visions, she is pushed into action. But is she ready for the new world she is about to plunge into?
Thank you to Booksparks for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
Blake has only ever wanted to blend in. When you get visions of people’s past and futures, that is hard to do. College is a new beginning. But when the guy next to her borrows a pen and makes accidental contact, she sees danger. But if she warns him, she will be known as that weird girl again. When a stranger confronts her on campus and knows about her visions, she is pushed into action. But is she ready for the new world she is about to plunge into?
Thank you to Booksparks for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
September 2, 2022
2.25 stars.
"The Nine: Origins" has a fascinating premise and a beautiful cover, both of which sparked my interest and compelled me to read this book. I liked the concept of the nine gifts and wanted to learn more about what they looked like in practice, who would be able to use them, and what they meant in terms of the overarching story.
As I read the book, there were quite a few issues that I encountered along the way. Many chapters featured odd pacing and transitions and needed to be fleshed out. It improved in later chapters but was an issue for at least 1/3 of the book. Some descriptive terminology ranged from off-putting to awkward. For example, "anemic" was used as a descriptor for a peach tree (jarring to use this in YA, although a tree can exhibit iron deficiency, assuming that is the intent here). The description of Cindy and her boyfriend in Chapter 7 was judgemental at best. These are only two examples. The more frequently I encountered this type of language, the harder it was for me to continue reading the book and root for Blake.
Many of the characters lacked depth and reflected stereotypes. Because this book is a YA novel, I would expect it to be able to contend with other books within that category. Unfortunately, it isn't up to par with what we can find on the market.
The most favourable features of this book are the overall story and the magic system. I will not continue this series, but I am thankful for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Where to find us:
Blog | Bookstagram | Twitter | Booktube | BookTok | Storygraph
"The Nine: Origins" has a fascinating premise and a beautiful cover, both of which sparked my interest and compelled me to read this book. I liked the concept of the nine gifts and wanted to learn more about what they looked like in practice, who would be able to use them, and what they meant in terms of the overarching story.
As I read the book, there were quite a few issues that I encountered along the way. Many chapters featured odd pacing and transitions and needed to be fleshed out. It improved in later chapters but was an issue for at least 1/3 of the book. Some descriptive terminology ranged from off-putting to awkward. For example, "anemic" was used as a descriptor for a peach tree (jarring to use this in YA, although a tree can exhibit iron deficiency, assuming that is the intent here). The description of Cindy and her boyfriend in Chapter 7 was judgemental at best. These are only two examples. The more frequently I encountered this type of language, the harder it was for me to continue reading the book and root for Blake.
Many of the characters lacked depth and reflected stereotypes. Because this book is a YA novel, I would expect it to be able to contend with other books within that category. Unfortunately, it isn't up to par with what we can find on the market.
The most favourable features of this book are the overall story and the magic system. I will not continue this series, but I am thankful for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Where to find us:
Blog | Bookstagram | Twitter | Booktube | BookTok | Storygraph
October 11, 2022
Eighteen-year-old Blake Wilder has had the ability to see into the future since she was a child. She has usually hidden this ability, apart from her parents only her close friend, Scarlett, knows, but then a stranger called Nicholas Thorne appears & tells her that her ability makes her eligible to become a member of a centuries-old paranormal society, albeit one on the brink of civil war. Nicholas explains that there are many different types of abilities out in the world, he is has the ability of telekinesis, & that Blake's means that she can use her gift to help others, even saving their lives.
Things are complicated by her growing attraction to Nicholas, which seems to be reciprocated, & also to Jessie, an older guy who has the ability to speak to the dead & part-owns a club where those with abilities hang out. Blake is unsure who to trust & who she feels the most for, but when she receives a vision concerning a string of bizarre murders yet to occur, she learns that the killer is aware of her ability & wants to silence her for good.
I really enjoyed reading this. It's a great concept with the different abilities which range from telekinesis & necromancy, to empaths, those who can shape the material world around them & more. I thought the worldbuilding was rather good & the storyline flowed nicely. On the whole, I liked the main character, although her flip-flopping between her feelings for Nicholas & her attraction to Jessie was a bit tiresome. (I like Nicholas but I found Jessie a bit sleazy & off-putting). It looks like this might a long-running series but I am undecided on whether or not to read any more. Not because I didn't enjoy it & the ending to this one indicates that the ability storyline is about to take an intriguing turn, but I'm not sure I could take several books on the love triangle between Blake/Nicholas/Jessie. If you like that kind of thing & enjoy paranormal fantasy books, then give this one a go. I was pleasantly surprised.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Owl Hollow Press, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Things are complicated by her growing attraction to Nicholas, which seems to be reciprocated, & also to Jessie, an older guy who has the ability to speak to the dead & part-owns a club where those with abilities hang out. Blake is unsure who to trust & who she feels the most for, but when she receives a vision concerning a string of bizarre murders yet to occur, she learns that the killer is aware of her ability & wants to silence her for good.
I really enjoyed reading this. It's a great concept with the different abilities which range from telekinesis & necromancy, to empaths, those who can shape the material world around them & more. I thought the worldbuilding was rather good & the storyline flowed nicely. On the whole, I liked the main character, although her flip-flopping between her feelings for Nicholas & her attraction to Jessie was a bit tiresome. (I like Nicholas but I found Jessie a bit sleazy & off-putting). It looks like this might a long-running series but I am undecided on whether or not to read any more. Not because I didn't enjoy it & the ending to this one indicates that the ability storyline is about to take an intriguing turn, but I'm not sure I could take several books on the love triangle between Blake/Nicholas/Jessie. If you like that kind of thing & enjoy paranormal fantasy books, then give this one a go. I was pleasantly surprised.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Owl Hollow Press, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
December 29, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- LOVE the cover on this one!
I have been putting off reading this one for some reason, but finally decided to dive into it. And I am glad I did because I ended up loving it! A secret society. Young adults with enhanced "abilities". Some romance. Some murder. A lot of intrigue and who is to be trusted...I can't wait for the next book!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I have been putting off reading this one for some reason, but finally decided to dive into it. And I am glad I did because I ended up loving it! A secret society. Young adults with enhanced "abilities". Some romance. Some murder. A lot of intrigue and who is to be trusted...I can't wait for the next book!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
August 9, 2022
Solid start to a series! So many questions left unanswered that I can’t wait for the next book to come out but this also kinda has a satisfying ending?!
Would totally recommend especially for fans of the inheritance games trilogy.
Also, Thank you NetGalley for providing the ARC. 💗
Would totally recommend especially for fans of the inheritance games trilogy.
Also, Thank you NetGalley for providing the ARC. 💗
May 2, 2023
The cover initially drew me to this as it's so beautiful! This was a really good YA novel, introducing Blake Wilder and the idea of the Nine abilities that certain people have. I thought it was going to be a bit Harry Potter-esque with a magic school system, but we didn't get to see that at all since the school is in England and this novel is set in America. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read with likeable characters and an easy to follow plot that kept me interested and keen to read the next one!
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest unedited feedback.
Thank you to Netgalley, Owl Hollow Press and the author.
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest unedited feedback.
Thank you to Netgalley, Owl Hollow Press and the author.
October 19, 2023
This was not it for me. I was cringing 80% of the time from the teen dramas omfg
RTC
RTC
September 1, 2022
Thank you Netgalley for sending me a copy of this novel :)
Blake Wilder is a first year college student who also happens to see into the past and future of people’s lives. When she learns about a group of people with power called the nine , her life takes a turn of 180 degrees, and of course, complications arise.
Oops, so this book wasn’t for me, and buckle up, because I have a LOT to say. I’ll try to be as coherent as I can. Some spoilers ahead, I guess.
(sorry in advance for the rant)
I’ll start with what I liked about this book. The first thing that draw my attention was the cover, which, in my opinion, is super pretty! The plot also sounded super interesting, and I’ve been wanting to get into more fantasy novels, so this was the perfect opportunity. Another thing is that, even if I didn’t really like many aspects of this novel, the author managed to keep my attention, and I really wanted to know what happened next. I am even considering continuing the series.
Now the negative. In my opinion, this novel was too ambitious for 277 pages. I liked the core idea, but not the execution. I feel like the author wanted to include so many things that she could not develop all of them properly (like the sister who is mentioned barely 3 times but maybe should’ve been more relevant throughout the whole novel or the world building in general). I think the novel could do with some heavy editing. For instance, the jump between chapters was very weird most of the time.
I kind of hated the writing of this novel, and the author tells us a lot of things rather than showing. The main character had specially absurd lines, but she was not the only one. See here:
• “My mouth dropped open. She was the human version of Prozac”.
• “It felt like a YouTube channel without end”.
• “I used to have six fulltime spirits”
• “Of course, at first I thought I was crazier than a dog in a cat factory”
Turns out I discovered a new hatred for the trope ‘historical characters were supernatural beings’: “Your George Washington was telekinetic, you know” And also, did you really had to involve Hitler in this?
The characters were plain and walking cliches. We have:
1) a super powerful teenage girl, who is very special (I cannot emphasize this enough), and who everyone loves and wants to protect after meeting for.. uhm 3 minutes? Okay. She’s pretty but doesn’t know it. Also, she’s not like other girls!! Did you know that she reads the paper?
2) two super-hot older boys who would drop everything for this cute girl that they just met.
3) the sidekick best friend who really didn’t add anything to the plot, but who is always there to support the MC on her boy dramas and being too powerful. She was the best character tho.
The novel was also cliché after cliché, and I would have eaten this up when I was 14-15, but my main problem was the writing, and I’m kind of picky with the writing nowadays.
Blake Wilder is a first year college student who also happens to see into the past and future of people’s lives. When she learns about a group of people with power called the nine , her life takes a turn of 180 degrees, and of course, complications arise.
Oops, so this book wasn’t for me, and buckle up, because I have a LOT to say. I’ll try to be as coherent as I can. Some spoilers ahead, I guess.
(sorry in advance for the rant)
I’ll start with what I liked about this book. The first thing that draw my attention was the cover, which, in my opinion, is super pretty! The plot also sounded super interesting, and I’ve been wanting to get into more fantasy novels, so this was the perfect opportunity. Another thing is that, even if I didn’t really like many aspects of this novel, the author managed to keep my attention, and I really wanted to know what happened next. I am even considering continuing the series.
Now the negative. In my opinion, this novel was too ambitious for 277 pages. I liked the core idea, but not the execution. I feel like the author wanted to include so many things that she could not develop all of them properly (like the sister who is mentioned barely 3 times but maybe should’ve been more relevant throughout the whole novel or the world building in general). I think the novel could do with some heavy editing. For instance, the jump between chapters was very weird most of the time.
I kind of hated the writing of this novel, and the author tells us a lot of things rather than showing. The main character had specially absurd lines, but she was not the only one. See here:
• “My mouth dropped open. She was the human version of Prozac”.
• “It felt like a YouTube channel without end”.
• “I used to have six fulltime spirits”
• “Of course, at first I thought I was crazier than a dog in a cat factory”
Turns out I discovered a new hatred for the trope ‘historical characters were supernatural beings’: “Your George Washington was telekinetic, you know” And also, did you really had to involve Hitler in this?
The characters were plain and walking cliches. We have:
1) a super powerful teenage girl, who is very special (I cannot emphasize this enough), and who everyone loves and wants to protect after meeting for.. uhm 3 minutes? Okay. She’s pretty but doesn’t know it. Also, she’s not like other girls!! Did you know that she reads the paper?
2) two super-hot older boys who would drop everything for this cute girl that they just met.
3) the sidekick best friend who really didn’t add anything to the plot, but who is always there to support the MC on her boy dramas and being too powerful. She was the best character tho.
The novel was also cliché after cliché, and I would have eaten this up when I was 14-15, but my main problem was the writing, and I’m kind of picky with the writing nowadays.
August 6, 2022
***Thank you to NetGalley and Owl Hollow Press for the free ARC. My opinions expressed below are honest and voluntary.***
What I liked about the book:
1. I liked the idea behind this book. I love secret societies and I love watching people bumble through newfound abilities, especially if it looks like they’re going to be the “chosen one”.
2. The writing style flowed really well, the pace was quick, and it was a pleasurable read.
3. I enjoyed the political intrigue of this story. I can’t really get a read on anyone at this point, but I think it’s pretty obvious she has to end up with Jessie romantically.
What could have been better:
1. I felt this book was a pretty unevolved version of every other fantasy book about a young person coming into a new life and being part of a love triangle.
The magic seemed very interesting to me but was not really dove into much more than necessary to move the plot along (which is not why I read fantasy in the first place). The plot was pretty unoriginal and thus was very predictable. The characters were copy and paste versions of characters from better books (why have the copy when you can have the original, right?)
Overall, I just felt something was missing.
2. I did not connect with any of the characters.
Our main character (who I frequently forgot her name) was very boring and a total Mary Sue. There was so much material there for Blake to be a bumbling wreck, and instead it focused on how inherently great she was with magic.
Blake’s best friend Scarlett was the stereotypical sassy friend who just wants the best for the FMC. Other than that, I forgot she was even in this book most of the time.
Blake’s love interests were basically a preppy, politician’s son who had proven himself untrustworthy (“but, he’s like, a total babe”) and an older, rogue Nine member who is creepy at best. OBVIOUSLY the preppy guy, Nicholas, is not my personal taste and dude is so shady I don’t trust him as far as I can throw him. I was sure I was going to love gritty Jessie by default. He’s older, he’s rough around the edges, he’s mysterious, he’s provocative. These check all my damn boxes, he should have been a shoo-in. WRONG! Jessie is that guy on ladies’ night sitting at the bar with his greasy hair, vape pen, and Keystone Light asking you how you like your eggs in the morning. Well, it certainly didn’t work for Jake two weeks ago and it’s not working for Jessie now.
The ONLY person who showed promise to me was Akim Silver, the Prime Sentinel (aka: grand judge) (Sentinel’s are immune to the gifts of the Nine, so would make perfect sense to be bodyguards and judges), and this was relayed through another character, Layla.
First of all, girl needs to update her standards on men then. Second of all, can we just shift the entire story to Layla and Akim? Please and thank you! Akim is definitely the guy who drinks Guinness and whispers rough nothings in your ear.
3. These people were supposed to be in college, but the whole thing felt like I was reading about high schoolers. A bit disappointing.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, this book was ok. It was enjoyable enough, mostly due to the writing style, but I likely won’t be continuing this nine-book series unless I hear that book two is completely amazing or something changes character-wise. That is too big of a commitment for this story for me currently.
What I liked about the book:
1. I liked the idea behind this book. I love secret societies and I love watching people bumble through newfound abilities, especially if it looks like they’re going to be the “chosen one”.
2. The writing style flowed really well, the pace was quick, and it was a pleasurable read.
3. I enjoyed the political intrigue of this story. I can’t really get a read on anyone at this point, but I think it’s pretty obvious she has to end up with Jessie romantically.
What could have been better:
1. I felt this book was a pretty unevolved version of every other fantasy book about a young person coming into a new life and being part of a love triangle.
The magic seemed very interesting to me but was not really dove into much more than necessary to move the plot along (which is not why I read fantasy in the first place). The plot was pretty unoriginal and thus was very predictable. The characters were copy and paste versions of characters from better books (why have the copy when you can have the original, right?)
Overall, I just felt something was missing.
2. I did not connect with any of the characters.
Our main character (who I frequently forgot her name) was very boring and a total Mary Sue. There was so much material there for Blake to be a bumbling wreck, and instead it focused on how inherently great she was with magic.
Blake’s best friend Scarlett was the stereotypical sassy friend who just wants the best for the FMC. Other than that, I forgot she was even in this book most of the time.
Blake’s love interests were basically a preppy, politician’s son who had proven himself untrustworthy (“but, he’s like, a total babe”) and an older, rogue Nine member who is creepy at best. OBVIOUSLY the preppy guy, Nicholas, is not my personal taste and dude is so shady I don’t trust him as far as I can throw him. I was sure I was going to love gritty Jessie by default. He’s older, he’s rough around the edges, he’s mysterious, he’s provocative. These check all my damn boxes, he should have been a shoo-in. WRONG! Jessie is that guy on ladies’ night sitting at the bar with his greasy hair, vape pen, and Keystone Light asking you how you like your eggs in the morning. Well, it certainly didn’t work for Jake two weeks ago and it’s not working for Jessie now.
The ONLY person who showed promise to me was Akim Silver, the Prime Sentinel (aka: grand judge) (Sentinel’s are immune to the gifts of the Nine, so would make perfect sense to be bodyguards and judges), and this was relayed through another character, Layla.
“What is it about him you like so much?”
A dreamy look stole over her face. “You mean besides the fact he’s absolutely gorgeous, incredibly mysterious, and could probably take down every other guy in this place single-handed?”
I’d never measured a guy’s attractiveness by whether he could fight off the other cavemen, but to each her own.
First of all, girl needs to update her standards on men then. Second of all, can we just shift the entire story to Layla and Akim? Please and thank you! Akim is definitely the guy who drinks Guinness and whispers rough nothings in your ear.
3. These people were supposed to be in college, but the whole thing felt like I was reading about high schoolers. A bit disappointing.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, this book was ok. It was enjoyable enough, mostly due to the writing style, but I likely won’t be continuing this nine-book series unless I hear that book two is completely amazing or something changes character-wise. That is too big of a commitment for this story for me currently.
October 25, 2022
This is the first book in a new series. Accordingly, it must include the reader in the building of characters and communities. The back story is an original one, or at least original to me. A young woman must hide her ability to see into the future. Her ability becomes public when she rescues a class mate. With her future in question, she learns of an organization of people like her, their abilities differ but they all are looking for guidance on how to best use their gifts for good.
This story centers on the life of this one young woman. It looks as if future books will center on other members of this organization. The series is off to a great start.
This story centers on the life of this one young woman. It looks as if future books will center on other members of this organization. The series is off to a great start.
November 14, 2024
I just couldn’t put this one down. The action won’t die out, something is always happening, it’s riveting.
Villains are villains, some people are confusing, but overall, I liked the fast-pacing of the book. It felt like watching a TV series.
TW for murder, attempted murder, blood and gore, death of a parent, fatal car accident, fire.
Jumping into book 2 now !
Thank you to Booksparks for the complimentary copy of this book for a book tour. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Villains are villains, some people are confusing, but overall, I liked the fast-pacing of the book. It felt like watching a TV series.
TW for murder, attempted murder, blood and gore, death of a parent, fatal car accident, fire.
Jumping into book 2 now !
Thank you to Booksparks for the complimentary copy of this book for a book tour. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 14, 2025
This was much better than I expected. Usually do not like FMC who are in the teens but I really like her. Definitely worth the time!
September 22, 2022
This was more of a 3.75, there was just one too many things I disliked to give it a 4, but I liked the story and the characters enough for it not to be a solid 3.
In the story we follow Blake, a girl who sees glimpses of people's lives. She is a Voyant, one of the 9 powers people could aquire either at birth or later in life. She is just trying her damndest to start over at a university away from her hometown but....that wouldn't make a very interesting story...would it?
Her visions get more intense and a strange hot guy with an accent shows up and begs her to join his secret club for the good of all everyone....all chaos ensues.
I read this book in about 3 days more or less. It was intriguing and fun. There were a couple character flaws that really got on my nerves, and the pacing for the end of the book was a little off.
Otherwise I would say there isn't any solid reason not to give this book a shot when it comes out, and I will undoubtedly be reading the next book in the series when it is released.
In the story we follow Blake, a girl who sees glimpses of people's lives. She is a Voyant, one of the 9 powers people could aquire either at birth or later in life. She is just trying her damndest to start over at a university away from her hometown but....that wouldn't make a very interesting story...would it?
Her visions get more intense and a strange hot guy with an accent shows up and begs her to join his secret club for the good of all everyone....all chaos ensues.
I read this book in about 3 days more or less. It was intriguing and fun. There were a couple character flaws that really got on my nerves, and the pacing for the end of the book was a little off.
Otherwise I would say there isn't any solid reason not to give this book a shot when it comes out, and I will undoubtedly be reading the next book in the series when it is released.
August 11, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read and review this book! !!!!Has spoilers!!!!!
This book kind of reminds me of X-men with people having different powers. Blake can see visions of the future and even past events. Her works kind of turns upside down once she meets a guy named Nicholas. Nicholas is a part of a group called The Nine, which is a group for people with special abilities. She soon finds out that her ability is rare and could put her in danger with others. Through out the story Blake is trying to figure out what and who she is with the help of Nicholas.
Nicholas takes her to The Lower 8 which is a bar for people in The Nine. There she’s meets a man named Jessie. Jessie and Nicholas clearly have a past and it doesn’t seem friendly. They both want to be Blake’s Patron to “show her the ropes”. It doesn’t help that she’s attracted to both of them and doesn’t really know eithers intentions.
Anyways the story ends with Nicholas having to go back to Europe to handle some business but before he goes Blake sees a terrifying vision of him. Also Blake’s sister ends up being a part of the Nine as well?
That’s my rough draft of what’s going on. My opinion about this book is that too much was going on throughout this book and a lot of stuff could’ve been explain more or been talked deeper into depth. Now I really really really enjoyed this book. I think it has amazing potential and I’m sure I’ll buy an actual copy. I’m actually excited for the next book to come out.
The main things I didn’t like about this was the back and forth love triangle with Nicholas and Jessie. She literally just met them. It was creepy that she fell so hard for Nicholas so fast but yet can’t get Jessie off her mind? Like pick one and stick with it. I think Nicholas has great intentions but just didn’t go about stuff in the right way. I do not get good vibes from Jessie at all. He seems like an F boy and I don’t like it, although he did end up kinda saving her in the end but I’m not sure if it was for her or for him to get what he wants. I also didn’t like the random twist of Marcus being evil. The plot didn’t set it up well enough for that twist in the end.
I just feel like the story should’ve been longer so more stuff was explained and not rushed. It felt extremely rushed to me and I don’t think I enjoyed it as much as I could have. Like I said I liked it and I’m excited for the next one but I just hope the next one doesn’t feel as rushed as this one.
3.5 stars but rounded up to 4.
This book kind of reminds me of X-men with people having different powers. Blake can see visions of the future and even past events. Her works kind of turns upside down once she meets a guy named Nicholas. Nicholas is a part of a group called The Nine, which is a group for people with special abilities. She soon finds out that her ability is rare and could put her in danger with others. Through out the story Blake is trying to figure out what and who she is with the help of Nicholas.
Nicholas takes her to The Lower 8 which is a bar for people in The Nine. There she’s meets a man named Jessie. Jessie and Nicholas clearly have a past and it doesn’t seem friendly. They both want to be Blake’s Patron to “show her the ropes”. It doesn’t help that she’s attracted to both of them and doesn’t really know eithers intentions.
Anyways the story ends with Nicholas having to go back to Europe to handle some business but before he goes Blake sees a terrifying vision of him. Also Blake’s sister ends up being a part of the Nine as well?
That’s my rough draft of what’s going on. My opinion about this book is that too much was going on throughout this book and a lot of stuff could’ve been explain more or been talked deeper into depth. Now I really really really enjoyed this book. I think it has amazing potential and I’m sure I’ll buy an actual copy. I’m actually excited for the next book to come out.
The main things I didn’t like about this was the back and forth love triangle with Nicholas and Jessie. She literally just met them. It was creepy that she fell so hard for Nicholas so fast but yet can’t get Jessie off her mind? Like pick one and stick with it. I think Nicholas has great intentions but just didn’t go about stuff in the right way. I do not get good vibes from Jessie at all. He seems like an F boy and I don’t like it, although he did end up kinda saving her in the end but I’m not sure if it was for her or for him to get what he wants. I also didn’t like the random twist of Marcus being evil. The plot didn’t set it up well enough for that twist in the end.
I just feel like the story should’ve been longer so more stuff was explained and not rushed. It felt extremely rushed to me and I don’t think I enjoyed it as much as I could have. Like I said I liked it and I’m excited for the next one but I just hope the next one doesn’t feel as rushed as this one.
3.5 stars but rounded up to 4.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2024
Book Review 📖✨
The Nine: Origins
by Kes Trester
thank you so much partner @booksparks #FallPopUp for the gifted series!
About the book 👇🏽
Eighteen-year-old Blake usually hides her ability to see moments in others' pasts and futures, but when a premonition compels her to save a life, she’s drawn into a centuries-old paranormal society on the brink of war.
As she struggles to find her way amidst the political intrigue and shifting alliances, her path is complicated by a budding romance with Nicholas, the chancellor’s son, and her attraction to Jessie, a man who makes the rules as he goes.
When she sees a series of bizarre murders before they occur, it’s not long before the killer learns of her visions, and Blake must decide whether to trust her head or her heart in a race to unmask the murderer before she's the next to die.
✨ My thoughts:
A solid start to a series. I loved the different gifts The Nine had and I’d say this is an easier fantasy read if you’re a novice. It’s easy to follow and the premise was just too good. I’m actually surprised I haven’t seen more readers giving this one a go! Overall the start to the series was enjoyable and not too complicated to follow along. With the different gifts the characters possess, keep in mind there will be kind of a lot going on, but I didn’t find myself becoming lost at all. I wish the romance wasn’t so instant only because in a series I prefer slow burns BUT wasn’t a deal breaker. I’d recommend this book if you’re looking for an easy YA fantasy with a fascinating magic system!
Happy reading 📖✨
The Nine: Origins
by Kes Trester
thank you so much partner @booksparks #FallPopUp for the gifted series!
About the book 👇🏽
Eighteen-year-old Blake usually hides her ability to see moments in others' pasts and futures, but when a premonition compels her to save a life, she’s drawn into a centuries-old paranormal society on the brink of war.
As she struggles to find her way amidst the political intrigue and shifting alliances, her path is complicated by a budding romance with Nicholas, the chancellor’s son, and her attraction to Jessie, a man who makes the rules as he goes.
When she sees a series of bizarre murders before they occur, it’s not long before the killer learns of her visions, and Blake must decide whether to trust her head or her heart in a race to unmask the murderer before she's the next to die.
✨ My thoughts:
A solid start to a series. I loved the different gifts The Nine had and I’d say this is an easier fantasy read if you’re a novice. It’s easy to follow and the premise was just too good. I’m actually surprised I haven’t seen more readers giving this one a go! Overall the start to the series was enjoyable and not too complicated to follow along. With the different gifts the characters possess, keep in mind there will be kind of a lot going on, but I didn’t find myself becoming lost at all. I wish the romance wasn’t so instant only because in a series I prefer slow burns BUT wasn’t a deal breaker. I’d recommend this book if you’re looking for an easy YA fantasy with a fascinating magic system!
Happy reading 📖✨
October 10, 2022
The premise sounds promising with a beautiful cover as well.
The plot is interesting- a secret society with people who have different powers.
I like the writing style which makes it easier to follow the storyline.
This book has a strong opening with fast pacing in the first few chapters of the book. It gets a bit dragging in the middle part but the pacing eventually picks up again near the ending.
The characters are pretty good but feels a bit flat. I wish there'd be more development in the next book.
The world building is fascinating and I hope we'll get to explore other places and people with different powers as well.
Overall, it's a pretty good read. If you're looking for a simple and fast paced YA Fantasy then you might want to pick this one up.
While the story is slightly predictable, I still enjoy reading this one and I'd like to see what happen next after that cliffhanger in the last chapter.
I received an advanced review copy for free from Netgalley, Owl Howl Press and Kes Trester. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The plot is interesting- a secret society with people who have different powers.
I like the writing style which makes it easier to follow the storyline.
This book has a strong opening with fast pacing in the first few chapters of the book. It gets a bit dragging in the middle part but the pacing eventually picks up again near the ending.
The characters are pretty good but feels a bit flat. I wish there'd be more development in the next book.
The world building is fascinating and I hope we'll get to explore other places and people with different powers as well.
Overall, it's a pretty good read. If you're looking for a simple and fast paced YA Fantasy then you might want to pick this one up.
While the story is slightly predictable, I still enjoy reading this one and I'd like to see what happen next after that cliffhanger in the last chapter.
I received an advanced review copy for free from Netgalley, Owl Howl Press and Kes Trester. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2022
This was an interesting read despite some clichés, there were, however, some things I simply can't get behind. The passages talking about a friend starving herself to get great curves and it being worth it or a friend being super jealous of the main character's fast metabolism - why? Was this really necessary? This literally brings nothing to the conversation. It only perpetuates toxic obsession with dieting and being thin. If the characters are supposed to be beautiful, thin, curvy - fine by me, but why word it in such a bad way? You could just say - she was thin. Still not an important detail for me, but far better than what we can find in the book. I highly suggest editing it in newer editions. The same goes for one really unfortunate comment about an attacker with a specific mention of him having dark skin. Again - why? I didn't really notice any attention being drawn to other characters' skin colour, so why must an attacker be dark skinned? This is not a good look. I would be interested in reading the next instalments, but I would really appreciate if such comments were removed.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing early access.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing early access.
November 28, 2023
I WANTED to love this, but it wasn't lovable. Stuff happens, most of it related to the plot, but it seemed to drag for a short book. I did not jive with the instalove or first person POV. Inspiring concept and decent writing, but 2.5 stars overall.
August 1, 2022
wow! when is book 2 coming out as i seriously can’t wait.
i loved everything about this book, the characters, the magic and the mystery.
in my opinion if you love cassandra clare books you won’t want to miss out on any books by this author
i loved everything about this book, the characters, the magic and the mystery.
in my opinion if you love cassandra clare books you won’t want to miss out on any books by this author
October 9, 2022
"The power of the one is the power of the many."
The 18-year-old Blake Wilder can see into the future and the past of the people around her, she is a voyant. She wanted to live a normal life, go to college, get a boyfriend, and maybe see a few football games there. This is why she only let a few trusted people know about her premonitions, out of fear she would be seen as a freak. Due to this, she never acted upon her visions and never dared to change the future until one day when she witnesses a premonition of one of her classmates dying in an accident. Coincidentally this was also the day she was approached by a complete stranger, who seems to know everything about her and wants her to join the secret society of The Nine. Once amongst The Nine, multiple murders happen around Blake and it is for her and her friends within The Nine to solve them.
⭐⭐⭐.75
This book is a decent start to a series I'm definitely intrigued to continue! I loved the cover and the premise of the book and was not disappointed. I am an absolute sucker for books that include characters with extraordinary abilities and secret societies and The Nine: Origins combines both.
The magic system of The Nine is very well thought out and features a variety of abilities. The characters however felt a little flat at times and made it hard for me to bond with them. I really hope this will change with the second installment of the series and we will see some better character development.
This was a really fast read, everything is happening quite quickly and made the pacing seem odd at times. What I also did not enjoy as much was the kind of insta-love that happened between our protagonist Blake and Nicholas, and the later forming love triangle.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book though and cannot wait to read the next one especially after this twist and the promising ending!
Thank you to Kes Trester, Owl Hollow Press and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy, all opinions on this book are my own.
Review on my blog
The 18-year-old Blake Wilder can see into the future and the past of the people around her, she is a voyant. She wanted to live a normal life, go to college, get a boyfriend, and maybe see a few football games there. This is why she only let a few trusted people know about her premonitions, out of fear she would be seen as a freak. Due to this, she never acted upon her visions and never dared to change the future until one day when she witnesses a premonition of one of her classmates dying in an accident. Coincidentally this was also the day she was approached by a complete stranger, who seems to know everything about her and wants her to join the secret society of The Nine. Once amongst The Nine, multiple murders happen around Blake and it is for her and her friends within The Nine to solve them.
⭐⭐⭐.75
This book is a decent start to a series I'm definitely intrigued to continue! I loved the cover and the premise of the book and was not disappointed. I am an absolute sucker for books that include characters with extraordinary abilities and secret societies and The Nine: Origins combines both.
The magic system of The Nine is very well thought out and features a variety of abilities. The characters however felt a little flat at times and made it hard for me to bond with them. I really hope this will change with the second installment of the series and we will see some better character development.
This was a really fast read, everything is happening quite quickly and made the pacing seem odd at times. What I also did not enjoy as much was the kind of insta-love that happened between our protagonist Blake and Nicholas, and the later forming love triangle.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book though and cannot wait to read the next one especially after this twist and the promising ending!
Thank you to Kes Trester, Owl Hollow Press and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy, all opinions on this book are my own.
Review on my blog
October 20, 2022
(3.5 stars)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Kes Trester and Owl Hollow Press for the ARC.
This was an entertaining coming-of-age story of Blake, who has struggled for years with odd visions and premonitions. This book follows her as she learns what her skills really mean.
Tons of magical realism, set in a contemporary college background, make this a fun first book in the series. There’s a whodunnit, some shady characters but also plenty of beauty and a bit of romance. And some unanswered questions, as you’d expect.
I would have preferred some more acknowledgment/description of the darker sides of the story, but the book is well-written and a good quick read. I’ll definitely be looking out for the next release.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Kes Trester and Owl Hollow Press for the ARC.
This was an entertaining coming-of-age story of Blake, who has struggled for years with odd visions and premonitions. This book follows her as she learns what her skills really mean.
Tons of magical realism, set in a contemporary college background, make this a fun first book in the series. There’s a whodunnit, some shady characters but also plenty of beauty and a bit of romance. And some unanswered questions, as you’d expect.
I would have preferred some more acknowledgment/description of the darker sides of the story, but the book is well-written and a good quick read. I’ll definitely be looking out for the next release.
September 21, 2022
A special thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this book in exchange for a feedback review. All statements and opinions stated in this piece are my own.
This is a origin book, a new one in the huge stable of books about people with super powers, extraordinary abilities, or to put it plainly magic. I loved the cover of this one and also the short description where the ability of the protagonist talks about premonitions and a power to see incidents before they happen, very Final Destination except here she has the power to see the future incidents.
What is good in this book is the way the powers, the nine are described so we have a big bouquet of different powers and various individuals who are able to control them at various degrees depending upon their level of strength; like in the X-men. The nine powers are well thought out.
The interest in the book would be to see how people use those powers and the book gives some very good situations for the various abilities.
The story is very easy going and one feels the inclination to continue reading the book not a compulsion but it seems to grow on you. I had a great love for fantasy books even before the Potter series and loved reading the books on SF and SFF with exotic storylines, locations and power centers.
Although this book is not exactly in the zone for me but it still has kindled some of my interest and I would be looking into further books in the series.
What did not work for me in this book is principally the characters, things seem to be happening very seamlessly like clockwork. Stories especially magical ones fraught with telling backgrounds and compelling characters should not be doing that. The protagonist has been keeping her power under wraps except sharing with her friend who knows all but when accosted by this representative of a new world of powers seems to cave in very quickly and has no mental blocks or doubts about the entire situation. The lady is supposed to be in college not a pre-teen like Harry when he was accosted by owls.
Our protagonist comes across as being unbelievably naïve and she bonds instantly with anyone who is willing too sweet-talk her. The book doesn't have characters interacting and bonding, they are not properly fleshed out and feel too 2-D. These are some things that could be worked into in the future books. I don't know maybe college goer's today are bonding without any depth almost like one does over social media.
The story line about two powers vying for supremacy within the magical community is also a tried tested formula, as is the knowledge that you are not alone in your predicament of being different, mutant, super-powered or a nine; subsequent books will show us how different this series is from the many others already in bookdom.
The story has enough bite for the YA audience it seems to be targeting and needs to be a little less obvious to reach a more mature audience. There is potential in this one.
I reserve my judgement here at 3 stars.
NB - I just read this book again at a more sober pace replenishing my understanding of the book and its characters and the canvas that the author has planned in which to extend the story.
I improve my feedback for this book to 3.5 STARS as the potential of this book makes me feel a lot positive for the subsequent sequels which should follow. Everything now depends on the author to take them into another level.
This book has potential and so will recommend it to others.
This is a origin book, a new one in the huge stable of books about people with super powers, extraordinary abilities, or to put it plainly magic. I loved the cover of this one and also the short description where the ability of the protagonist talks about premonitions and a power to see incidents before they happen, very Final Destination except here she has the power to see the future incidents.
What is good in this book is the way the powers, the nine are described so we have a big bouquet of different powers and various individuals who are able to control them at various degrees depending upon their level of strength; like in the X-men. The nine powers are well thought out.
The interest in the book would be to see how people use those powers and the book gives some very good situations for the various abilities.
The story is very easy going and one feels the inclination to continue reading the book not a compulsion but it seems to grow on you. I had a great love for fantasy books even before the Potter series and loved reading the books on SF and SFF with exotic storylines, locations and power centers.
Although this book is not exactly in the zone for me but it still has kindled some of my interest and I would be looking into further books in the series.
What did not work for me in this book is principally the characters, things seem to be happening very seamlessly like clockwork. Stories especially magical ones fraught with telling backgrounds and compelling characters should not be doing that. The protagonist has been keeping her power under wraps except sharing with her friend who knows all but when accosted by this representative of a new world of powers seems to cave in very quickly and has no mental blocks or doubts about the entire situation. The lady is supposed to be in college not a pre-teen like Harry when he was accosted by owls.
Our protagonist comes across as being unbelievably naïve and she bonds instantly with anyone who is willing too sweet-talk her. The book doesn't have characters interacting and bonding, they are not properly fleshed out and feel too 2-D. These are some things that could be worked into in the future books. I don't know maybe college goer's today are bonding without any depth almost like one does over social media.
The story line about two powers vying for supremacy within the magical community is also a tried tested formula, as is the knowledge that you are not alone in your predicament of being different, mutant, super-powered or a nine; subsequent books will show us how different this series is from the many others already in bookdom.
The story has enough bite for the YA audience it seems to be targeting and needs to be a little less obvious to reach a more mature audience. There is potential in this one.
I reserve my judgement here at 3 stars.
NB - I just read this book again at a more sober pace replenishing my understanding of the book and its characters and the canvas that the author has planned in which to extend the story.
I improve my feedback for this book to 3.5 STARS as the potential of this book makes me feel a lot positive for the subsequent sequels which should follow. Everything now depends on the author to take them into another level.
This book has potential and so will recommend it to others.
August 11, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My rating: 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4)
Quick Stats
Overall: 3.5/5 ☆
Characters: 2.5/5 ☆
Relationships/Friendships: 3/5 ☆
Setting: 4/5 ☆
Writing: 3.5/5 ☆
Plot and Themes: 4/5 ☆
The Nine is a novel set in a modern-day world following the life of our protagonist, Blake Wilder, a girl with Clairvoyant powers. Not everyone knows of her powers, though, and she’s hoping it will stay that way. But after a freak accident involving her abilities and someone who seemed to have spawned out nowhere, Blake is forced to make a decision: continue her current way of living, in secret and in denial, or actually do something about it?
Pros:
✨ writing that was easy to read
✨ fun characters and dialogue
✨ interesting plot
✨ eye-catching cover
I thought the writing was very easy to read. It was light and quite fun. The plot was fairly interesting (not anything out of the world or special, but was just enough to intrigue me to turn the page) and I thought that the overall concept of the different abilities was done right.
Can we just give a moment to talk about the cover? It’s so freaking catchy. It caught my eye instantly. I can just imagine myself endlessly strolling through the library, seeing that cover, and before you could even say ‘nine’, it’s already in my to-borrow bag.
Cons:
🍄 characters felt basic
🍄 sometimes writing had no flow
Hear me out when I say that the characters felt basic. The main character, Blake, was a bit of that generic angsty teen in YA. She’s mad, but then not so mad. She’s kind of upset she won’t be able to live her life as a normal person anymore, and she’s planning to be sad over it some more. She doesn’t really look at logic, she just goes with everything that happens around her. Are you telling me that she seriously didn’t think that her powers could save a ton of important lives? She needs some random dude to tell her and “show her.”
Oh, and of course there’s also Scarlet, her best friend, who is basically that sarcastic but supportive friend trope. I’ll admit that I’m okay with that, but she didn’t feel fleshed out enough. She felt like a character I had already seen countless times, and sometimes I just didn’t care about her dialogue.
I know I said earlier that the writing was easy to read, and that’s true, but sometimes it felt hurried. As in, some events seemed to happen out of the blue. And not even in the well-written, out of nowhere kind of sense. The scene where the tragic accident happened felt sort of sudden. Maybe it’s for the shock effect, but the way it was written just didn’t feel natural. There was also another scene prior to that of when Blake first met Nicholas and she just darted away. That scene just irked me because the reaction felt under-whelming. The best word I can gather to describe it is just ‘unnatural,’ as I said before.
Last words:
Overall, I would say to give this book a shot because the plot is interesting and it’s a fun and easy read. The world is well-built enough. Some areas of the book might feel odd, like things might come out of nowhere and feel weird, but it doesn’t happen ALL the time. It wouldn’t be hard to just shake it off when it happens. The Nine is the kind of book I would read when I’m not really looking to dive deep in novel and completely immerse myself. It’s a intriguing, sometimes dark, book I can probably count on to give me a good time.
Thank you for reading my review!
My rating: 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4)
Quick Stats
Overall: 3.5/5 ☆
Characters: 2.5/5 ☆
Relationships/Friendships: 3/5 ☆
Setting: 4/5 ☆
Writing: 3.5/5 ☆
Plot and Themes: 4/5 ☆
The Nine is a novel set in a modern-day world following the life of our protagonist, Blake Wilder, a girl with Clairvoyant powers. Not everyone knows of her powers, though, and she’s hoping it will stay that way. But after a freak accident involving her abilities and someone who seemed to have spawned out nowhere, Blake is forced to make a decision: continue her current way of living, in secret and in denial, or actually do something about it?
Pros:
✨ writing that was easy to read
✨ fun characters and dialogue
✨ interesting plot
✨ eye-catching cover
I thought the writing was very easy to read. It was light and quite fun. The plot was fairly interesting (not anything out of the world or special, but was just enough to intrigue me to turn the page) and I thought that the overall concept of the different abilities was done right.
Can we just give a moment to talk about the cover? It’s so freaking catchy. It caught my eye instantly. I can just imagine myself endlessly strolling through the library, seeing that cover, and before you could even say ‘nine’, it’s already in my to-borrow bag.
Cons:
🍄 characters felt basic
🍄 sometimes writing had no flow
Hear me out when I say that the characters felt basic. The main character, Blake, was a bit of that generic angsty teen in YA. She’s mad, but then not so mad. She’s kind of upset she won’t be able to live her life as a normal person anymore, and she’s planning to be sad over it some more. She doesn’t really look at logic, she just goes with everything that happens around her. Are you telling me that she seriously didn’t think that her powers could save a ton of important lives? She needs some random dude to tell her and “show her.”
Oh, and of course there’s also Scarlet, her best friend, who is basically that sarcastic but supportive friend trope. I’ll admit that I’m okay with that, but she didn’t feel fleshed out enough. She felt like a character I had already seen countless times, and sometimes I just didn’t care about her dialogue.
I know I said earlier that the writing was easy to read, and that’s true, but sometimes it felt hurried. As in, some events seemed to happen out of the blue. And not even in the well-written, out of nowhere kind of sense. The scene where the tragic accident happened felt sort of sudden. Maybe it’s for the shock effect, but the way it was written just didn’t feel natural. There was also another scene prior to that of when Blake first met Nicholas and she just darted away. That scene just irked me because the reaction felt under-whelming. The best word I can gather to describe it is just ‘unnatural,’ as I said before.
Last words:
Overall, I would say to give this book a shot because the plot is interesting and it’s a fun and easy read. The world is well-built enough. Some areas of the book might feel odd, like things might come out of nowhere and feel weird, but it doesn’t happen ALL the time. It wouldn’t be hard to just shake it off when it happens. The Nine is the kind of book I would read when I’m not really looking to dive deep in novel and completely immerse myself. It’s a intriguing, sometimes dark, book I can probably count on to give me a good time.
Thank you for reading my review!
August 28, 2022
Summary:
Blake has spent most of her life learning to deal with her gift - she can see emotionally charged memories from people's pasts as well as premonitions of their futures. When she is approached at college by a man named Nicholas, she learns she is not alone. Magically powered people contain Nine different types of giftings, and Blake finds herself trapped in a political war between factions wanting to use her, as she is more powerful than she realized.
This book was a super quick (one day), fun read. Overall, I felt like the cool aspects of the magic outweighed the parts I didn't like as much because I wanted to keep reading.
What I enjoyed:
🪄 The magic!! I loved the creativity of the nine different types of powers. My favorites were the materialists and telepaths, although Blake's powers were also fascinating. I felt the author did a great job creating interesting moments and showing lots of dynamics surrounding the powers.
🪄 The plot moved easily and the writing flowed nicely. It was very easy to keep turning (virtual) pages! I liked seeing Blake making attempts to have autonomy throughout her journey.
What I didn't enjoy as much
✨ I wish that Blake's character was developed more. The beginning jumped right into an inciting incident which is sometimes exciting, but I would have liked to get to know Blake better. She didn't have much of a personality beyond her powers and relationships.
✨ The romance and love triangle didn't work super well for me. Many of the side characters just again, weren't as developed or interesting as I would have liked.
I probably will read book two because I LOVED the ending. Knew it was coming but still very excited to see the new direction!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! I am posting my review here and will post a review on my Bookstagram as the release date gets closer.
Blake has spent most of her life learning to deal with her gift - she can see emotionally charged memories from people's pasts as well as premonitions of their futures. When she is approached at college by a man named Nicholas, she learns she is not alone. Magically powered people contain Nine different types of giftings, and Blake finds herself trapped in a political war between factions wanting to use her, as she is more powerful than she realized.
This book was a super quick (one day), fun read. Overall, I felt like the cool aspects of the magic outweighed the parts I didn't like as much because I wanted to keep reading.
What I enjoyed:
🪄 The magic!! I loved the creativity of the nine different types of powers. My favorites were the materialists and telepaths, although Blake's powers were also fascinating. I felt the author did a great job creating interesting moments and showing lots of dynamics surrounding the powers.
🪄 The plot moved easily and the writing flowed nicely. It was very easy to keep turning (virtual) pages! I liked seeing Blake making attempts to have autonomy throughout her journey.
What I didn't enjoy as much
✨ I wish that Blake's character was developed more. The beginning jumped right into an inciting incident which is sometimes exciting, but I would have liked to get to know Blake better. She didn't have much of a personality beyond her powers and relationships.
✨ The romance and love triangle didn't work super well for me. Many of the side characters just again, weren't as developed or interesting as I would have liked.
I probably will read book two because I LOVED the ending. Knew it was coming but still very excited to see the new direction!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! I am posting my review here and will post a review on my Bookstagram as the release date gets closer.
August 31, 2022
The Nine: Origins is a promising new series with a new and extensive magic system.
The main character, Blake Wilder, is a voyant - a person capable of seeing the future or past of other people. Her gift is quite unusual and rare, and because of that, she raises the attention of two powerful sides. One traditional and one innovative. Blake knows nothing about a society of other gifted people and becomes a puppet of their sweet talks. And yeah, there are murders too.
But this you can read in an annotation of the book, so I am going to start talking about my opinion.
The narrator in the first person can be really untrustworthy. Blake Wilder is a great example of that. She fell in love with the very first person she met and introduced her to the society of the Nine. But we do not know if he is the right person. We do not know if anyone is the right person because Blake is so naive. Every relationship she makes is instant. But we have to keep in mind that this is not a stand-alone story, naivety of Blake can be used in a prequel. So I am not going to call it a mistake.
What I think is a little bit more important is that I lacked normal relationships between characters. They were friends, they were lovers but I have not seen how that happened. The relationship between Blake and Nicholas was weird. Too fast. And I think that every boy has not to be handsome and in his twenties. The main character is not supposed to be the most beautiful girl in the room.
On the other hand, the magic system and political intrigues are interesting. Worldbuilding is not bad but could be more solid. Everything depends on the sequel. This time I am giving it 3 stars, it is not bad but it has its holes, if they are going to be removed, this series can be great.
Thank you Owl Hollow Press for this opportunity and eARC.
The main character, Blake Wilder, is a voyant - a person capable of seeing the future or past of other people. Her gift is quite unusual and rare, and because of that, she raises the attention of two powerful sides. One traditional and one innovative. Blake knows nothing about a society of other gifted people and becomes a puppet of their sweet talks. And yeah, there are murders too.
But this you can read in an annotation of the book, so I am going to start talking about my opinion.
The narrator in the first person can be really untrustworthy. Blake Wilder is a great example of that. She fell in love with the very first person she met and introduced her to the society of the Nine. But we do not know if he is the right person. We do not know if anyone is the right person because Blake is so naive. Every relationship she makes is instant. But we have to keep in mind that this is not a stand-alone story, naivety of Blake can be used in a prequel. So I am not going to call it a mistake.
What I think is a little bit more important is that I lacked normal relationships between characters. They were friends, they were lovers but I have not seen how that happened. The relationship between Blake and Nicholas was weird. Too fast. And I think that every boy has not to be handsome and in his twenties. The main character is not supposed to be the most beautiful girl in the room.
On the other hand, the magic system and political intrigues are interesting. Worldbuilding is not bad but could be more solid. Everything depends on the sequel. This time I am giving it 3 stars, it is not bad but it has its holes, if they are going to be removed, this series can be great.
Thank you Owl Hollow Press for this opportunity and eARC.
October 30, 2022
Blake can see visions of the future and the past. She meets Nicholas who tells her she is a Voyant, and that she belongs with the Nine, people presenting one of the nine gifts. There is conflict in this secret society, with each side trying to get her to join them. Then Blake starts to get premonitions of murders. She must discover the murderer, who is clearly a Nine, before she becomes a victim herself.
Taking place in a modern-day setting this book is extremely readable. The first-person POV is a combination of acerbic and sassy. Blake is instantly likeable, strong and vulnerable, her emotions and thoughts shining through the narrative. The chemistry between her and the potential love interests is sizzling and genuine, their humorous exchanges very entertaining. Nicholas is charming and Jessie is naughty fun.
A fascinating mythology which thankfully we learn about without any info dumps, rather gradually and organically in the story. The pacing is exactly what is needed to get you into the story and keep you engaged. I really enjoyed the details of the chapters being named and all the historical figures mentioned with their supposed gifts. I also liked how the vision were described, continuing the flow of the story.
I know this is a series but I would have liked to learn more about the various gifts in the 1st installment. The premise to have been developed more. Also some things were discovered too quickly or easily in my opinion and some 'surprises" were cookie-cutter predictable and just didn't have the impact they should have. Thankfully other twists and revelations make up for that by being exciting and unexpected.
This tale examines the concept of the common good and if people can actually forgo self-serving agendas to support it. It is about loyalty and trust.
Mystery, power machinations, suspense and laugh-out-loud moments deliver the promise of an even better sequel and a promising series.
Taking place in a modern-day setting this book is extremely readable. The first-person POV is a combination of acerbic and sassy. Blake is instantly likeable, strong and vulnerable, her emotions and thoughts shining through the narrative. The chemistry between her and the potential love interests is sizzling and genuine, their humorous exchanges very entertaining. Nicholas is charming and Jessie is naughty fun.
A fascinating mythology which thankfully we learn about without any info dumps, rather gradually and organically in the story. The pacing is exactly what is needed to get you into the story and keep you engaged. I really enjoyed the details of the chapters being named and all the historical figures mentioned with their supposed gifts. I also liked how the vision were described, continuing the flow of the story.
I know this is a series but I would have liked to learn more about the various gifts in the 1st installment. The premise to have been developed more. Also some things were discovered too quickly or easily in my opinion and some 'surprises" were cookie-cutter predictable and just didn't have the impact they should have. Thankfully other twists and revelations make up for that by being exciting and unexpected.
This tale examines the concept of the common good and if people can actually forgo self-serving agendas to support it. It is about loyalty and trust.
Mystery, power machinations, suspense and laugh-out-loud moments deliver the promise of an even better sequel and a promising series.
September 28, 2024
3.5 stars
I'm honestly surprised that this book doesn't have more rating and reviews - it's pretty dang good!
Somehow, Trester has achieved the near miracle like mission of creating a main character with visions of the past and future without making it difficult to follow, unbelievable, or making the character wobbly, so to speak, in their fleshing out.
Not only is our main character solid in her visions, but the visions are interesting - especially the surprise ones. (And the spicy ones, like you wouldn't believe)
I love the world of the Nine that's been introduced, and somehow I have the feeling we've only just hit the tip of the iceberg when it comes to blood feuds and power struggles within the gifted world.
I also love all the little details of the people and visions that we often forget about. Like a gifted young father with a toddler on his hip, different smells than the typically described ones, ect.
I think my only quip with The Nine: Origins is that some of the characters' motives/reasonings for being in the story are a little fuzzy.
For example: don't get me wrong, I love a good love triangle, but it felt like feelings were flopping around so quickly that I couldn't really feel solidly set on any option and ended up slightly hating both guys.
I think another thing with the characters was that there were sometimes too many introduced in a scene for me to keep names straight.
BUT. I loved the variety of loose ends that were left at the end to pull you into the next book and keep you hooked. Plus, the plot twist of our MCs sister?? Yes, please. Fantastic.
I'm honestly surprised that this book doesn't have more rating and reviews - it's pretty dang good!
Somehow, Trester has achieved the near miracle like mission of creating a main character with visions of the past and future without making it difficult to follow, unbelievable, or making the character wobbly, so to speak, in their fleshing out.
Not only is our main character solid in her visions, but the visions are interesting - especially the surprise ones. (And the spicy ones, like you wouldn't believe)
I love the world of the Nine that's been introduced, and somehow I have the feeling we've only just hit the tip of the iceberg when it comes to blood feuds and power struggles within the gifted world.
I also love all the little details of the people and visions that we often forget about. Like a gifted young father with a toddler on his hip, different smells than the typically described ones, ect.
I think my only quip with The Nine: Origins is that some of the characters' motives/reasonings for being in the story are a little fuzzy.
For example: don't get me wrong, I love a good love triangle, but it felt like feelings were flopping around so quickly that I couldn't really feel solidly set on any option and ended up slightly hating both guys.
I think another thing with the characters was that there were sometimes too many introduced in a scene for me to keep names straight.
BUT. I loved the variety of loose ends that were left at the end to pull you into the next book and keep you hooked. Plus, the plot twist of our MCs sister?? Yes, please. Fantastic.
September 29, 2022
For as long as Blake Wilder can remember, she has had visions. Just one touch and she will be able to see your past as well as round the corner for you too. It’s something she has always tried to hide but when she gets a vision of her classmate dying in a car crash, she knows she has to intervene. This sets off a chain of events which lets her know she isn’t alone with her special gift. In fact, there is a group of nine different magical gifts. When Blake starts seeing visions of murders she feels she has to help prevent them…only the killer has seen her visions too .
Nine is short and snappy addition to the genre of YA fantasy murder mystery. I enjoyed learning about each of the nine gifts, particularly the real world examples of people who had specific gifts. That was a nice touch. I feel like this series would make a great film.
However, I struggled to engage with the book like I expected to. I think it’s because the novel lacked the world building I have seen in other books in this genre.. I wanted to know more about the school and less on the love triangle which felt a little cliched and also needed more of a slow burn to it. At points it felt hard to keep all tab of all the background characters too.
I won’t carry on with the series but I would probably recommend it to other fans of this genre, because normally the second book in a series like this is much better.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Nine is short and snappy addition to the genre of YA fantasy murder mystery. I enjoyed learning about each of the nine gifts, particularly the real world examples of people who had specific gifts. That was a nice touch. I feel like this series would make a great film.
However, I struggled to engage with the book like I expected to. I think it’s because the novel lacked the world building I have seen in other books in this genre.. I wanted to know more about the school and less on the love triangle which felt a little cliched and also needed more of a slow burn to it. At points it felt hard to keep all tab of all the background characters too.
I won’t carry on with the series but I would probably recommend it to other fans of this genre, because normally the second book in a series like this is much better.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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