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The Test
New York Times and USA Today Best-selling Author
What Was Meant to Bring This Fractured Family Together May Only Succeed in Ripping Them Apart—Forever
Renowned philanthropist and billionaire Paul Parnell had reached the pinnacle of monetary success, but not without cost. Had he put too much emphasis on work, and spent too little time with his family?
Determined to leave something far more valuable than money to his six children, Paul instructs his lawyers to create an unusual last will and testament. This unorthodox will, which stipulates that the lion’s share of Paul’s two billion dollar estate be given to the heirs who pass “the test,” was Paul’s last hope of creating a lasting legacy by inspiring his children to give back to society and embrace a code of moral values.
The six Rory, Frank, Dan, Monica, Carla, and Ashley, have only one year to make a difference. But what a difference one year will make.
Before these six very different siblings can complete the test, they’ll be forced to face their personal demons, and the incredibly evil influence that could claim one of their own.
Fans of John Grisham will love the intrigue of The Test
What Was Meant to Bring This Fractured Family Together May Only Succeed in Ripping Them Apart—Forever
Renowned philanthropist and billionaire Paul Parnell had reached the pinnacle of monetary success, but not without cost. Had he put too much emphasis on work, and spent too little time with his family?
Determined to leave something far more valuable than money to his six children, Paul instructs his lawyers to create an unusual last will and testament. This unorthodox will, which stipulates that the lion’s share of Paul’s two billion dollar estate be given to the heirs who pass “the test,” was Paul’s last hope of creating a lasting legacy by inspiring his children to give back to society and embrace a code of moral values.
The six Rory, Frank, Dan, Monica, Carla, and Ashley, have only one year to make a difference. But what a difference one year will make.
Before these six very different siblings can complete the test, they’ll be forced to face their personal demons, and the incredibly evil influence that could claim one of their own.
Fans of John Grisham will love the intrigue of The Test
280 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
83 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Gussin
15 books95 followersNew York Times and USA Today best-selling author Patricia Gussin is a physician who grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, practiced in Philadelphia, and now lives in Longboat Key, Florida and Amagansett, NY. She is the author of seven novels including Shadow of Death, nominated Best First Novel by the International Thriller Writers Association, and After the Fall, Gold Medal winner of the Florida Book Award for Popular Fiction in 2015, and second-time Gold Medal Winner for Popular Fiction in 2017 for Come Home. Patricia’s novels are classified as mystery/thrillers and fall within the sub-genre of domestic suspense. Her novels are inspired by her medical expertise and her experience as a mother of six, trying to balance family and career.
She and her husband Robert Gussin are also vineyards owners in New Zealand, growing grapes for Villa Maria Estates Winery.
She and her husband Robert Gussin are also vineyards owners in New Zealand, growing grapes for Villa Maria Estates Winery.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
June 23, 2018
The test left by Paul Parnell in his will for his children to pass in order to gain billions of their inheritance seem weird and tiresome. The test was for them to focus on mankind and do good in the world. But, The Parnell Family was a wealthy, influential , and a political connected family.
As a family in one year, they went through tragdies that bonded them together because of this test. True personal character started to overshadow the avarice beahaviors and compassionate adults emerged. Each one of the Parnell children became wiser and stronger when confronted with his/her individual weaknesses to become living examples of their father's moto of God, family, community, and profession. A book written with humor, truthism, and unrealistic expectations all emerged for a good read.
Quote:
"Gina will be there," Carl had said. "And your children, Terrence and Carissa."
He could feel all eyes in the room on him, but he was beyond all ability to react.
So much money at stake and his dad was going on about values? Smack in the aftermath of the Bush-Gore screw up?
"I'm pregnant too," Ashley blurted out. "I'm not married either."
As a family in one year, they went through tragdies that bonded them together because of this test. True personal character started to overshadow the avarice beahaviors and compassionate adults emerged. Each one of the Parnell children became wiser and stronger when confronted with his/her individual weaknesses to become living examples of their father's moto of God, family, community, and profession. A book written with humor, truthism, and unrealistic expectations all emerged for a good read.
Quote:
"Gina will be there," Carl had said. "And your children, Terrence and Carissa."
He could feel all eyes in the room on him, but he was beyond all ability to react.
So much money at stake and his dad was going on about values? Smack in the aftermath of the Bush-Gore screw up?
"I'm pregnant too," Ashley blurted out. "I'm not married either."
April 8, 2010
The book The Test by Patricia Gussin was a intriguing idea that was poorly conceived. The Test is a story of the patriarch of the Parnell family, the vastly wealthy Peter Parnell‘s, last dying wish for his successors. This wish is to not to make the same mistakes he did, focusing on business and wealth instead of what really matters. So enters “The Test.”
The problem with this book is not the premise itself, but the introduction of so many characters within the first two chapters. By giving us an in-depth ancestral chart Gussin tries to make the introduction of these main characters easier on the reader. What happens however is that we are left with more confusion and the inability to connect with any one person.
Throughout the story, we are made to follow the Parnell family as they each traverse their own personal “Test“ that has been personally crafted by Peter before his death. Each lesson is to be administered over the course of a year to find out if his heirs are worthy of such a vast amount of money.
The story moved, however you find yourself needing to retreat back to the family tree to keep each character and where they belonged straight. By having so many main characters, each having their own personal journey, one has to relearn who the person is before you read what they are doing.
The idea of The Test was ingenious, a wealthy father, in his last hours of life realizing what is truly important; tries to pass on wisdom he never could while alive. The Test was a great idea, with a grand moral lesson and a feel good ending. But with this many characters that you never are able to fully connect with, it falls flat in the end.
The problem with this book is not the premise itself, but the introduction of so many characters within the first two chapters. By giving us an in-depth ancestral chart Gussin tries to make the introduction of these main characters easier on the reader. What happens however is that we are left with more confusion and the inability to connect with any one person.
Throughout the story, we are made to follow the Parnell family as they each traverse their own personal “Test“ that has been personally crafted by Peter before his death. Each lesson is to be administered over the course of a year to find out if his heirs are worthy of such a vast amount of money.
The story moved, however you find yourself needing to retreat back to the family tree to keep each character and where they belonged straight. By having so many main characters, each having their own personal journey, one has to relearn who the person is before you read what they are doing.
The idea of The Test was ingenious, a wealthy father, in his last hours of life realizing what is truly important; tries to pass on wisdom he never could while alive. The Test was a great idea, with a grand moral lesson and a feel good ending. But with this many characters that you never are able to fully connect with, it falls flat in the end.
February 20, 2018
This is the story of the Parnell family. The rich patriarch dies and asks that all of his children are gathered together for a reading of his will. Turns out daddy had a change of heart regarding the meaning of life towards his final days and wants to impart some life lessons to his children. Basically, no one will get any money until one year from the reading of the will when there will be a test.
While the premise isn’t exactly new, I was intrigued by the idea of a test. Unfortunately, that aspect of the story seems to be an after thought. Parnell had six children and at the beginning it was a bit tough to tell them apart. There were some surprises along the way, but overall I was left thinking, really....another bad thing happening. If you liked The Nest, then you might like this one.
While the premise isn’t exactly new, I was intrigued by the idea of a test. Unfortunately, that aspect of the story seems to be an after thought. Parnell had six children and at the beginning it was a bit tough to tell them apart. There were some surprises along the way, but overall I was left thinking, really....another bad thing happening. If you liked The Nest, then you might like this one.
February 22, 2010
This is a very trashy, escapist sort of book that is quite fun. Yes, people make poor choices and sometimes act like soap opera rejects, but it's fun! And several of the characters have enough depth to make you actually care about them. I will say, though, that there were far too many quotation mark errors in this book, particularly near the end. It's like the copy editor started out wanting to do a good job, but then got tired or drunk or something and just gave up. It got to be a bit annoying.
March 13, 2016
Wow, this book was all over the place. I gave it 3 stars because it kept me curious to see how things would turn out, but it required MAJOR suspension of disbelief (and a blind eye turned toward some horrific editing and formatting - or lack thereof - in the Kindle format, at least).
The premise is interesting, and immediately many of the characters were vivid enough to keep them straight (I worry when a book features a family tree at the start to help you tell who is who!), but the choices they made and changes they experienced - never mind the ridiculous amount of tragedy that could strike one family in one year - was hard to swallow.
And the ending (don't worry, this is spoiler-free) included a revelation that came completely out of nowhere, did nothing to advance the storyline, and seriously felt like a desperate daytime soap opera move.
I was eager to get to the end, but by the time I did, I was so disgusted by basically having read a season of Dynasty that it wasn't worth the pay-off.
(I'm also completely perplexed why this is considered "A Lauren Nelson Mystery" since that character doesn't exist in the story. Maybe that's the mystery?)
The premise is interesting, and immediately many of the characters were vivid enough to keep them straight (I worry when a book features a family tree at the start to help you tell who is who!), but the choices they made and changes they experienced - never mind the ridiculous amount of tragedy that could strike one family in one year - was hard to swallow.
And the ending (don't worry, this is spoiler-free) included a revelation that came completely out of nowhere, did nothing to advance the storyline, and seriously felt like a desperate daytime soap opera move.
I was eager to get to the end, but by the time I did, I was so disgusted by basically having read a season of Dynasty that it wasn't worth the pay-off.
(I'm also completely perplexed why this is considered "A Lauren Nelson Mystery" since that character doesn't exist in the story. Maybe that's the mystery?)
June 18, 2016
An interesting premise which made me want to read this book; a man dies leaving his estate to his family on the conditions they pass a test within a year. They have no knowledge of what to expect from the test, only handwritten letters where the father tells them of his hopes and dreams for them. It was interesting to read, but not quite what I expected and I was a little bored 2/3rds of the way in.
October 25, 2016
Entertaining story about family with money--
I enjoyed the story but wished there had been more to it when I had finished. It was interesting how the author weaved the story of Sept 11 into the telling of the family's tragedies.
I enjoyed the story but wished there had been more to it when I had finished. It was interesting how the author weaved the story of Sept 11 into the telling of the family's tragedies.
September 29, 2017
this was an interesting book, not to mention a good idea. great build up of characters and story line. I will continue to read books by Ms. Gussin.
October 31, 2017
The writing seemed a little amateurish and characters predictable, but the plot pulled me along.
October 11, 2022
A billionaire dies unhappy with the way his family has turned out, so he writes a will in which he stipulates that his children will only inherit his money if they pass a test he has set up. Basically he wants them to be better people than they are. This novel follows the family and the problems they have as individuals and with each other. The characters are well developed and the situations realistic. In addition there are surprises in the story which make for interesting reading. I enjoyed this book.
June 15, 2023
Paul Parnell led a life devoted to his work. His choice made him extremely successful--a billionaire, but during the end of his life he regretted his choice. He had not spent enough time with family or making a difference in the world. In his will, he left his kids with a challenge--to become more committed to family, community, God. In return, if they passed his "test" they would inherit his financial fortune. Will they pass, "The Test?"
May 23, 2019
A literary soap opera
Filled with deceit, murder, illness, stealing, and betrayal, this book has all of the trappings of a really great soap opera!
Filled with deceit, murder, illness, stealing, and betrayal, this book has all of the trappings of a really great soap opera!
December 20, 2021
Rather predictable storyline, and I won't even get into the horrible editing... unless he book WAS the test?
May 2, 2022
When patriarch Paul Parnell dies, he leaves instructions for his children to pass a test of his newly developed credo in order to inherit his $2 Billion estate.
July 13, 2012
First of all, don't read this book. Just don't.
Okay, first of all, while the writer attempted to make interesting characters, they wound up all being cardboard cutouts of interesting people. I could see this book as a bad Lifetime movie, that's how it was. No one was real. The writer attempted to add flaws and interesting little character quirks, but they wound up just being cliche and expected.
Speaking of expected, I had almost the whole thing figured out from the beginning, and I am NOT one of those people that takes pleasure in that. But when you practically BROADCAST how things are going to turn out, it's hard to miss.
Maybe this next bit is spoilery, but I don't think so. If you get more than 3 chapters in, you'll probably have this all figured out, too. The bad guy, Conrad, is a Grade A fucking nutcase. I had this figured out from the get-go. Then, like 75% of the way into the book, the writer chooses to EXPLAIN to us that "Oh, that guy? He's a crazy nutbar." Like this is a revelation? No, I've been on that train for some time, thanks. There was one little twist at the end that I almost didn't get, but then again, it was BROADCAST that something was going to happen, so I figured it out. The rest of the characters were all so textbook and boring it was ridiculous. For example, we're talking rich white family from the North, so you've got the politician, the outcast, the drug addict, the good child, the secret love child, the multiple marriages, the one family with a bunch of kids, all the things you would expect from a rich family from the North. Everything else was just so cookie-cutter it was hard to pay attention while reading. I tended to skim a lot of it, because I could pretty much tell you what was being described, what was being discussed, etc.
I'm telling you, bad Lifetime movie material. Skip it. I wish I knew where I heard about this book that prompted me to purchase it so that I could kick that person in the junk. (And now, upon reading some of the other reviews, it was apparently a Kindle Deal of the Day for $0.99. That was a dollar too much to pay for this crap.)
Okay, first of all, while the writer attempted to make interesting characters, they wound up all being cardboard cutouts of interesting people. I could see this book as a bad Lifetime movie, that's how it was. No one was real. The writer attempted to add flaws and interesting little character quirks, but they wound up just being cliche and expected.
Speaking of expected, I had almost the whole thing figured out from the beginning, and I am NOT one of those people that takes pleasure in that. But when you practically BROADCAST how things are going to turn out, it's hard to miss.
Maybe this next bit is spoilery, but I don't think so. If you get more than 3 chapters in, you'll probably have this all figured out, too. The bad guy, Conrad, is a Grade A fucking nutcase. I had this figured out from the get-go. Then, like 75% of the way into the book, the writer chooses to EXPLAIN to us that "Oh, that guy? He's a crazy nutbar." Like this is a revelation? No, I've been on that train for some time, thanks. There was one little twist at the end that I almost didn't get, but then again, it was BROADCAST that something was going to happen, so I figured it out. The rest of the characters were all so textbook and boring it was ridiculous. For example, we're talking rich white family from the North, so you've got the politician, the outcast, the drug addict, the good child, the secret love child, the multiple marriages, the one family with a bunch of kids, all the things you would expect from a rich family from the North. Everything else was just so cookie-cutter it was hard to pay attention while reading. I tended to skim a lot of it, because I could pretty much tell you what was being described, what was being discussed, etc.
I'm telling you, bad Lifetime movie material. Skip it. I wish I knew where I heard about this book that prompted me to purchase it so that I could kick that person in the junk. (And now, upon reading some of the other reviews, it was apparently a Kindle Deal of the Day for $0.99. That was a dollar too much to pay for this crap.)
January 21, 2010
Paul Parnell is a billionaire who has just died. He made his money but near the end of his life he began to think about if it was too late for his grown children to learn life lessons. So he devised a test – if they wanted their money they could have it. After a year. If they pass the test.
The problem? None of the children even deal with each other. They don’t really like each other. And there’s a surprise sixth child. That goes over as well as one would expect. Some children want the money, others want nothing to do with it, and maybe one misses Paul Parnell.
Rory is a wifely type looked down upon by her siblings because she is a child of one of Paul’s ex-wives and not of blood. Frank is a senator whose only goal is his political future. Dan is the black sheep, wanting nothing to do with the family name or the family money. Monica is the surprise sixth child, a famous singer whose parentage was known only to Paul. Carla is a model with a more than serious drug problem. And Ashley is the child who was still at home. Working on her medical degree and doting on Paul.
What will they learn? What secrets lie in wait to be discovered? Who will crack? Will they pass the test?
I loved, loved, LOVED this book. I found some of the characters extremely unlikeable but after the introduction of the test I raced through the book to find out what happened. There were surprising agendas, unforeseen plot twists, betrayals, and even death. Sometimes I was shocked, sometimes appalled, and sometimes just amused. You will truly follow the pages of this book to learn what the children are up to. In the process they will discover what they are truly made of. And in the end, we find out who passed the test. And who may not have.
The problem? None of the children even deal with each other. They don’t really like each other. And there’s a surprise sixth child. That goes over as well as one would expect. Some children want the money, others want nothing to do with it, and maybe one misses Paul Parnell.
Rory is a wifely type looked down upon by her siblings because she is a child of one of Paul’s ex-wives and not of blood. Frank is a senator whose only goal is his political future. Dan is the black sheep, wanting nothing to do with the family name or the family money. Monica is the surprise sixth child, a famous singer whose parentage was known only to Paul. Carla is a model with a more than serious drug problem. And Ashley is the child who was still at home. Working on her medical degree and doting on Paul.
What will they learn? What secrets lie in wait to be discovered? Who will crack? Will they pass the test?
I loved, loved, LOVED this book. I found some of the characters extremely unlikeable but after the introduction of the test I raced through the book to find out what happened. There were surprising agendas, unforeseen plot twists, betrayals, and even death. Sometimes I was shocked, sometimes appalled, and sometimes just amused. You will truly follow the pages of this book to learn what the children are up to. In the process they will discover what they are truly made of. And in the end, we find out who passed the test. And who may not have.
October 25, 2009
When Paul Parnell died, he left behind a fortune in the billions, adult children by three different mothers, and a number of grandchildren and in-laws. Prior to his death, Paul realized that one of the regrets of his life was not being active and available in the lives of his children. His trusted lawyer is instructed to create an iron-clad will that requires his 6 surviving children to examine their lifestyles, morals, and values, and make decisions on what is important to each. The final disposition of family fortune will depend on the decisions made by the children over the next year.
The family dynamics are interesting and somewhat convulted here, much like they are in any family of step children, half siblings, etc. It's interesting to watch the interplay between the sons and daughters, and the way they view themselves and each other. The author uses recent political and international events to weave throughout the story, adding an additional level of realism. The novel chronicles the next year in the family, and marks numerous ups, downs, sadness and happy events.
In some cases, there is almost too much going on, and I found myself having to backtrack once or twice, just to check out familial relationships. In a novel with this many characters, plot twists and subplots, that's to be expected. Some of the twists the book used were easy to see coming, some were not. It definitely held my interest thoughout.
If you enjoy suspense and family intrigue, you will enjoy this book. I plan to read more of this author's work in the future.
The family dynamics are interesting and somewhat convulted here, much like they are in any family of step children, half siblings, etc. It's interesting to watch the interplay between the sons and daughters, and the way they view themselves and each other. The author uses recent political and international events to weave throughout the story, adding an additional level of realism. The novel chronicles the next year in the family, and marks numerous ups, downs, sadness and happy events.
In some cases, there is almost too much going on, and I found myself having to backtrack once or twice, just to check out familial relationships. In a novel with this many characters, plot twists and subplots, that's to be expected. Some of the twists the book used were easy to see coming, some were not. It definitely held my interest thoughout.
If you enjoy suspense and family intrigue, you will enjoy this book. I plan to read more of this author's work in the future.
March 10, 2013
See this review on 1776books.net...
http://1776books.blogspot.com/2009/09...
There is nothing like a good mystery story, especially one that is set in your hometown. Landmarks that the author writes about are familiar enough to make the reader understand the story more. Philadelphia seems to be the setting for many of these stories (Lisa Scottoline being the master)...I suppose because of the city's historical value.
"The Test" is the story of a billionaire family with roots in Philadelphia's exclusive Main Line. The many Parnell family members gather after their father's death to hear the reading of his will. They are shocked when they learn that they will only receive their part of the inheritance if they each pass his "test". Paul Parnell, the patriarch, felt guilty that he never really taught his children the morals they need to survive. Their inheritance will depend on if they can learn these morals in one year. Along the way, they will each face much hardship and tragedy.
This novel had such an interesting premise, but never really succeeded in getting where it needed to go. I had a hard time getting through it, as I felt at times that I was reading a Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys mystery. The story is cliche'-ridden, and the ending comes so out of left field that it is laughable. Still, Gussin should be commended for her outline. This could have been a slam dunk.
MY RATING - 2
http://1776books.blogspot.com/2009/09...
There is nothing like a good mystery story, especially one that is set in your hometown. Landmarks that the author writes about are familiar enough to make the reader understand the story more. Philadelphia seems to be the setting for many of these stories (Lisa Scottoline being the master)...I suppose because of the city's historical value.
"The Test" is the story of a billionaire family with roots in Philadelphia's exclusive Main Line. The many Parnell family members gather after their father's death to hear the reading of his will. They are shocked when they learn that they will only receive their part of the inheritance if they each pass his "test". Paul Parnell, the patriarch, felt guilty that he never really taught his children the morals they need to survive. Their inheritance will depend on if they can learn these morals in one year. Along the way, they will each face much hardship and tragedy.
This novel had such an interesting premise, but never really succeeded in getting where it needed to go. I had a hard time getting through it, as I felt at times that I was reading a Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys mystery. The story is cliche'-ridden, and the ending comes so out of left field that it is laughable. Still, Gussin should be commended for her outline. This could have been a slam dunk.
MY RATING - 2
October 18, 2009
Billionaire Paul Parnell was a typical tycoon. He spent all his time making money any way he could and it was only in his last days that he realized the cost to him and his family. His six children had little or no relationship with each other, and most expected his money to always be there. So before he died he devised a test to try to bring his family back together and teach them the life lessons he failed to teach them when he had the chance. The only way they could claim their inheritance was to pass this test within a year.
Even though the book is advertised as being about “The Test” and the synopsis is mostly about the test, the book only starts out being about the test and quickly looses that thread to become a murder mystery as someone targets the family members and the year counts down. Frank is the matriarch son and as such wants control of all the money. Dan is the rebel who left the family years ago. Ashley and Carla are the youngest sisters of Paul’s second wife Vivian. Rory is Vivian’s daughter. And then there is Monica.
I found this to be an enjoyable easy read with a somewhat predictable story line. The book had quite a few story lines going at once that seemed a little disconnected or unnecessary, and the ending never did completely explain the outcome of the test to my satisfaction, but overall I would recommend the book.
Even though the book is advertised as being about “The Test” and the synopsis is mostly about the test, the book only starts out being about the test and quickly looses that thread to become a murder mystery as someone targets the family members and the year counts down. Frank is the matriarch son and as such wants control of all the money. Dan is the rebel who left the family years ago. Ashley and Carla are the youngest sisters of Paul’s second wife Vivian. Rory is Vivian’s daughter. And then there is Monica.
I found this to be an enjoyable easy read with a somewhat predictable story line. The book had quite a few story lines going at once that seemed a little disconnected or unnecessary, and the ending never did completely explain the outcome of the test to my satisfaction, but overall I would recommend the book.
July 15, 2012
I bought this book because it had really good reviews - a lot of people claimed "they couldn't put it down!". I was not as impressed.
The idea behind the book - a billionaire dying and making his kids prove their mettle before they can inherit - is a good one. But, somewhere along the lines, THAT story got replaced with all of the kids stories, most notably Ashley with her psychopath, hypnotizing fiance. I felt like "The Test" fell by the wayside, with only a small, one-page blip at the very end to wrap everything up. Also, The Test was never really fully explained, just referred to vaguely, with the kids receiving a letter from their father with his guidelines, which were also vague.
My biggest issue though was the amateur writing and grammatical errors. These really throw the reader out of the story when they pop up. If you haven't learned the difference between "you're" and "your", get a VERY GOOD editor. Also there were a lot of errors with quotation marks, which is confusing when you think you're reading narrative and then realize it's supposed to be dialogue, or vice versa. I nearly quit reading a couple of times because the writing was very canned in places and also the grammar errors.
I think the author could have merit but would encourage them to get a good editor and have a LOT of people read the book and give feedback before going to publication.
The idea behind the book - a billionaire dying and making his kids prove their mettle before they can inherit - is a good one. But, somewhere along the lines, THAT story got replaced with all of the kids stories, most notably Ashley with her psychopath, hypnotizing fiance. I felt like "The Test" fell by the wayside, with only a small, one-page blip at the very end to wrap everything up. Also, The Test was never really fully explained, just referred to vaguely, with the kids receiving a letter from their father with his guidelines, which were also vague.
My biggest issue though was the amateur writing and grammatical errors. These really throw the reader out of the story when they pop up. If you haven't learned the difference between "you're" and "your", get a VERY GOOD editor. Also there were a lot of errors with quotation marks, which is confusing when you think you're reading narrative and then realize it's supposed to be dialogue, or vice versa. I nearly quit reading a couple of times because the writing was very canned in places and also the grammar errors.
I think the author could have merit but would encourage them to get a good editor and have a LOT of people read the book and give feedback before going to publication.
July 18, 2012
This was not a terribly well-written or well-plotted book, but I was pulled in by its premise and found it worth the read.
The action in The Test kicks off with a wealthy American businessman at the end of his life deciding that he has failed to instill in his seven children and their families an appreciation for family, community, and faith. So the heirs arrive for the will reading and learn that the estate will not be divided up for one year, and that their father left a note for each of them with instructions on what he wanted them to improve in their lives during this year. If they meet the requirements, they get their share of his estate on the anniversary of his death. If not, they're cut out of the will.
It made for a very creative introduction to all of these characters, and I wish the book had stuck more closely to that premise. It goes off on a few rambling side-stories about what becomes of the heirs that year and too often you get more backstory on why their father was disappointed in them than on how they reacted to his challenge to live better.
In the end, the book was nothing special but the concept behind it kept my mind dancing for a few days.
The action in The Test kicks off with a wealthy American businessman at the end of his life deciding that he has failed to instill in his seven children and their families an appreciation for family, community, and faith. So the heirs arrive for the will reading and learn that the estate will not be divided up for one year, and that their father left a note for each of them with instructions on what he wanted them to improve in their lives during this year. If they meet the requirements, they get their share of his estate on the anniversary of his death. If not, they're cut out of the will.
It made for a very creative introduction to all of these characters, and I wish the book had stuck more closely to that premise. It goes off on a few rambling side-stories about what becomes of the heirs that year and too often you get more backstory on why their father was disappointed in them than on how they reacted to his challenge to live better.
In the end, the book was nothing special but the concept behind it kept my mind dancing for a few days.
July 22, 2013
This book is well written, and the characters engaging. I found myself thinking about the story when I was away from the book. I cared what happened, wanting to see the characters grow and improve, to change. most did, in one way or another.
Despite this, I didn't enjoy the book. The cover description was misleading: It said it was about a billionaire having a test for his kids, and how they handled it. That was a part of the story, but a minor part. the major part of the story starts with chapter one and an outside character; the book mostly revolves around this character's influence on the family. the character was well written, you are led to dislike their manipulative ways from the beginning. I was expecting a book about how the family grew or not as a result of the test...some happened, but it wasn't the focus of the book.
There was also an extra revelation at the end that was unnecessary, and only provided the loosest of rational for any tie to the plot.
All in all, I wanted to like this book and recommend it to others; now, I give this healthy reality check, and most avoid it. so much potential, lost.
Despite this, I didn't enjoy the book. The cover description was misleading: It said it was about a billionaire having a test for his kids, and how they handled it. That was a part of the story, but a minor part. the major part of the story starts with chapter one and an outside character; the book mostly revolves around this character's influence on the family. the character was well written, you are led to dislike their manipulative ways from the beginning. I was expecting a book about how the family grew or not as a result of the test...some happened, but it wasn't the focus of the book.
There was also an extra revelation at the end that was unnecessary, and only provided the loosest of rational for any tie to the plot.
All in all, I wanted to like this book and recommend it to others; now, I give this healthy reality check, and most avoid it. so much potential, lost.
June 26, 2012
I picked this up for $.99 as the Kindle Deal of the Day on Amazon.
The premise seemed interesting. I wanted to know if the family would pass this test and who would get the money.
The good
There was a creepy love-to-hate villains in this story. I had to read to the end just to make sure he got what was coming to him
And an action packed ending. Liked the action and that it kept you guessing, but not some other aspects
Character growth
The bad
Too many characters, and a confusing family tree
A lot of character deaths....that seemed pretty random
I didn't care for a revelation at the end
The just okay
This book was very skimmable. Not much happens for most of it.
The writing was pretty underwhelming. Was it bad? It was flat and just didn't pop. So could be improved.
Would I recommend? It's not terrible or great, but I'd probably pass on this one
The premise seemed interesting. I wanted to know if the family would pass this test and who would get the money.
The good
There was a creepy love-to-hate villains in this story. I had to read to the end just to make sure he got what was coming to him
And an action packed ending. Liked the action and that it kept you guessing, but not some other aspects
Character growth
The bad
Too many characters, and a confusing family tree
A lot of character deaths....that seemed pretty random
I didn't care for a revelation at the end
The just okay
This book was very skimmable. Not much happens for most of it.
The writing was pretty underwhelming. Was it bad? It was flat and just didn't pop. So could be improved.
Would I recommend? It's not terrible or great, but I'd probably pass on this one
July 17, 2012
I was drawn to the concept of this book, however, I was disappointed in the execution. The plot was interesting and the characters well defined for the most part. Defining the drama and turmoil in a large wealthy family is not a new idea however, the deceased father trying to make amends for his mistakes by "testing" his children before giving them was. The author confusingly jumps from character to character and skips a months of time. Additionally, there were some unanswered questions I felt like where/how Welton came into Ashley's life. Monica's birth mother after her birth. I find it odd that there is no reaction to learning how she died. One would think you would have questions or want more information, but nothing.
All in all, it was a good read. It held my attention and had some interesting twists.
All in all, it was a good read. It held my attention and had some interesting twists.
June 7, 2011
ebook.
this book was a silly, easy read that was more like watching a soap opera unfold. the drama between the members of the richest of East Coast power playing families...the evil villian out to get them...the inheritance left unclaimed until they passed the 'test'...it was all very dramatic.
the characters were super unrealistic (i've never heard of a family in Philadelphia being that powerful, that famous, that amazing, that well known)...but i didn't really care. the suspense in the story ended up being pretty predictable and kind of last minute. and the ending was tied up neatly in a nice little happy bow.
did i enjoy reading it? sure.
was it great literature? not really.
did it pass the boring day at work. for sure.
this book was a silly, easy read that was more like watching a soap opera unfold. the drama between the members of the richest of East Coast power playing families...the evil villian out to get them...the inheritance left unclaimed until they passed the 'test'...it was all very dramatic.
the characters were super unrealistic (i've never heard of a family in Philadelphia being that powerful, that famous, that amazing, that well known)...but i didn't really care. the suspense in the story ended up being pretty predictable and kind of last minute. and the ending was tied up neatly in a nice little happy bow.
did i enjoy reading it? sure.
was it great literature? not really.
did it pass the boring day at work. for sure.
July 19, 2012
Interesting premise that is not explored to near its potential. The Test, after its dramatic introduction, is quickly reduced to an incidental thread, barely holdng the book together.
One-dimensional, mostly unlikable +/or unrelatable characters. More than half of the book is taken with the stories of the two least likable characters, which made it difficult to want to finish it.
Implausible twists and plot developments and a too-neatly- packaged ending. Much of the writing feels self-conscious, with a lot of brand name-dropping and tangents into esoteric topics.
Quasi-misogynist work, with women featuring prominently as victims.
By the time I finished, I was irritated that I spent the time to read it.
One-dimensional, mostly unlikable +/or unrelatable characters. More than half of the book is taken with the stories of the two least likable characters, which made it difficult to want to finish it.
Implausible twists and plot developments and a too-neatly- packaged ending. Much of the writing feels self-conscious, with a lot of brand name-dropping and tangents into esoteric topics.
Quasi-misogynist work, with women featuring prominently as victims.
By the time I finished, I was irritated that I spent the time to read it.
July 5, 2013
I loved the concept, but the story didn't really deliver. Most of the action that is meant to change the characters' lives takes place "off-stage." The funeral is in the autumn with the will-reading immediately following the burial, then...wham! It's Easter. We don't see the characters really struggle (Carla's rehab and Dan's reconciliation with Gina, for example) so there's no way for the reader to connect with any of them. We're introduced to their issues in one chapter, and when we're reintroduced to that character several chapters later, the author "tells" us what was done to solve the dilemma. Or characters are killed off easily with little forethought.
I really wish the author had dug deeper to involve the reader.
I really wish the author had dug deeper to involve the reader.
September 12, 2012
I very much enjoyed the narration techniques in this book. There are 4 "main" characters (sort of), and the narration for each of them refelcts their personalities. It's a unique approach that I really liked.
With that being said, it's hard to really get attached to a character, and the villain is not very believable. I was not thrilled about the "twist" at the end, either.
Those are my only real complaints, though. The story moves along at an appropriate pace, and there was just enough drama to keep you intrigued. I would recommend this story to any one looking for a reasonably quick & easy read.
With that being said, it's hard to really get attached to a character, and the villain is not very believable. I was not thrilled about the "twist" at the end, either.
Those are my only real complaints, though. The story moves along at an appropriate pace, and there was just enough drama to keep you intrigued. I would recommend this story to any one looking for a reasonably quick & easy read.
September 24, 2009
This book isn't exactly what I had expected it to be, which is good in a way. I assumed the book would be primarily about "the test" the rich family has to go through in order to get at their family inheritance. It sounded a bit cliche - as if it's been done before. Well, the story does include bits about a test, but it is not the primary focus. Instead it's filled with a suspenseful page-turning plot. Fair descriptions but otherwise smooth writing. However the end felt a bit rushed and the particular parts about hypnosis was a bit unbelievable at times. Otherwise this book is a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2012
Mildly interesting premise: Billionaire dies, leaving a test for all his heirs. Heirs include an insecure med-student, a druggie model, a perfect housewife, an ambitious senator, a blank slate farmer, and a pop singer.
The whole thing develops into not much at all. Characters change abruptly with little development, going from cowardly to brave, greedy to generous without much given to the process.
There is a villain and an unnecessary last minute reveal. Overall there is a smidge of interesting story ruined by abrupt transitions and poor character development
The whole thing develops into not much at all. Characters change abruptly with little development, going from cowardly to brave, greedy to generous without much given to the process.
There is a villain and an unnecessary last minute reveal. Overall there is a smidge of interesting story ruined by abrupt transitions and poor character development
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