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You know him, but you can't remember his name. He is the one that is always there, in the background, all but invisible to those roaming the hallways. What if he had a secret? What if it was a secret that even he didn't know?

Test Davis has always been a blur to those around him. He's a shadow like a million other kids--not smart enough for the academic team, not beast enough for the football team, not extroverted enough for the drama crowd. In all things Test is just...not, which is why no one ever notices him.

But what happens when someone does notice him-- Nicole Paxton, a cheerleader, no less? What happens on the night that Test finds out there's nothing average about him and that a powerful gift has been hidden within, secretly waiting to be set free and alter his life forever? The question is, will that power save him and those he loves or tear them apart?

380 pages, Paperback

First published April 14, 2010

47 people are currently reading
1408 people want to read

About the author

J.M. Pierce

11 books58 followers
J.M. Pierce is a simple midwestern man with a creative side who has found writing as his primary outlet. He lives happily with his wife and two children in rural Kansas and finds happiness in a good cup of coffee, a Kansas sunrise, a good book, the sound of his daughter singing, his son's laughter, and his wife's eyes. Everything else is gravy.

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5 stars
155 (19%)
4 stars
226 (28%)
3 stars
214 (26%)
2 stars
129 (16%)
1 star
73 (9%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
Profile Image for Jaidis Shaw.
Author 12 books281 followers
December 1, 2010
I recently finished reading Failing Test by J.M. Pierce and I must admit that I was a little hesitant by the description because it sounded like one of those books that has an awesome idea but could easily be taken in the wrong direction or have what I like to refer to as the 'sparklyness', which in my opinion is not a good thing to have, but I still found myself intrigued by it. I originally planned on sitting down and reading a few pages, just to get a feel for it, and then come back to it later after I got some things done around my house. I found myself pleasantly surprised that my original plan was shattered as I was staring at the last page of the book on my computer in disbelief that it was over. I believe Failing Test is beautifully written and gave just the right attention to details. Not long and drawn out details that make you skip down a few sentences just to get to the main point, but details that draw you in and make it easy for you to imagine yourself in the story along side the characters. The main character, Test Davis, gives off the 'can't live with him, can't live without him' vibe which makes me feel even more sympathetic towards him and the struggles that he is faced with. I'm actually finding myself having a difficult time writing this review because I want to keep telling you about his powers and the struggles he is facing, but would most definitely prefer that you buy the book and read it for yourself. I know that you will be pleasantly surprised by Failing Test's smooth paced twists and turns. I enjoyed reading it so much in fact, that I am going to buy a paperback copy just to have on my bookshelf because I will definitely be reading this book again...and again
Profile Image for Nicole Storey.
Author 8 books124 followers
September 1, 2013
I really liked the idea of this book. It would have made a great plot. However, the characters' dialog was way over exaggerated and unreal. Their emotions swung from one extreme to the next in two sentences. There were many editing errors in the book. I could go on and on...

I realize this is fiction, however, in order to have a GREAT book, at least part of it must have some basis in reality. You have to make the readers BELIEVE that your story could really happen, no matter how off the wall it is. This entire book was so unbelievable that it reminded me of something a kid in middle school might write -- not a bad attempt for a 12 year old, but horrible for an adult that is supposed to be a professional author.
Profile Image for Desert Rose Reviews.
305 reviews54 followers
February 22, 2017
My Review
5 Roses

Every loner teen-age guy dreams of having super-powers, and being a hero. They daydream about that pretty girl who doesn't seem to ever take notice of them. They have one friend who's been there since Kindergarten. They hate their home life, and can't wait to turn 18 so they can get out on their own. They have a car that's an extension of themselves, that they love til the end, even if others spit at it. Sound familiar? Well, that's Test's life in a nutshell. Til now...

What do you do, when you suddenly have super-natural powers that seem pretty limitless? Apparently, in Test's world, you just try to fly under the radar and not cause trouble...after impressing the girl of your dreams, and your best friend, of course.

After some unfortunate accidents occur from his new powers, Test is thrown into a world of running, survival, and searching for answers. With the help of friends, both old and new, he sets out to figure out the secret behind his past, and try to figure out a future that doesn't include being a lab rat, or prison.

With good writing that flows well, this fast paced story keeps you on your toes until the last page, and leaves you wanting more. It is a story I think any guy can relate to, and any girl will enjoy. I'd recommend it to any YA fan.
Profile Image for Maki ⌒☆.
587 reviews50 followers
May 24, 2019
I didn't like Failing Test as much as I thought I would, based on the synopsis. It definitely had its moments, but overall I just wasn't very impressed with the book.

The biggest problem I had with the book was the reaction of the law enforcement when they hear about Test's powers. For instance, he accidentally reveals his powers to a bunch of his classmates when he defends his girlfriend from some of her old friends, who weren't happy about her leaving their clique to date Test. He smashes up a car, and levitates two jocks, then melts a fiery log into a puddle of goo. He runs off, and naturally, the classmates call the police to report the attack.

Here's my problem - a bunch of incredibly drunk teenagers call the police and report that one of their classmates has magical superpowers that he used to attack them...and the police don't think twice about it. Their reaction isn't to laugh at how ridiculous the story is. They don't stop to question the source at all. The very next day, the front page declares Test a national threat who definitely has magical powers. And when the police see Test for the first time, they open fire on him immediately, without even waiting for him to prove if he has the alleged powers or not. So drunken teenagers are a completely credible source in this world. I'd hate to deal with their legal system.

And that's another thing. Why did Test keep using his powers against the police? If he had never used them to attack the police, he could have just looked at the police and said, "Really? A bunch of drunk kids told you I had superpowers?" He laments that if he'd taken a bat to the kid's car instead of mind-crushing it, he wouldn't be in trouble. Then why not tell the police that that was what happened, then? He could have saved himself and everyone else a lot of trouble.

But, I suppose the book would have been a lot shorter if that had happened. Suspension of disbelief is one thing, but there's only so far you can suspend that disbelief in what is supposed to be such a realistic world.

Another problem I had was how Heather and Chad acted. People don't act like that. Popular cliques are one thing, but Heather and Chad were completely hostile. They had to "protect their Alpha status". Really? It just felt like the book tried way too hard to make them the villains. Once more, it might not be such an issue if the book wasn't going for normalcy.

Finally, Nicole's reaction to the whole glowing thing was confusing. Her boyfriend can levitate things, destroy cars, and fly? No problem. His hands start glowing? GOOD LORD, IT'S TOO HORRIFYING! She faints because his hands glow. Flying is not an issue, but his hands lighting up like a lite brite is faint-worthy?

I think Cliff was my favorite part of the book. He was definitely a fun character.
1 review
September 12, 2010
This book is a phenomenal reading experience that takes its audience on an engaging and inspiring journey from the very first page until the final conclusion. The author grips the reader's interest by offering a compelling storyline combined with intriguing and introspective characters. The writer presents a realistic and colorful canvas that enables his audience to connect and relate to the all too familiar teenage emotions, inner struggles and personal triumphs that are encountered during that phase of life. J.M. Pierce constructs a unique narrative that guides the reader through dynamic characters and masterful plot descriptions.

The storyline reflects the notion that even though the main character faces ultimate and extreme abilities and powers, he is still bound by seemingly insignificant yet integral choices and decisions that dramatically affect the course of everyday life events. There is no doubt that "Test" mirrors our own reality and the challenges we face each day. Our decisions & choices, whether good or bad create and direct us everlastingly down the pathways we design. What would you do if you held a quintessential life changing secret that would affect the very foundation and core of your existence? This book explores and expands upon that point while allowing the audience to explore its own answers to such life altering thoughts, questions and ideas. Read this book…it is your destiny…
Profile Image for Maria Hooley.
Author 45 books254 followers
August 25, 2010
Failing test excels at an aspect of the superhero genre that isn't typically tackled. Most of us would love to super powers, but we don't think about the consequences of those powers and what they would mean to those we love. While Test is a good person, the power within him can be destructive, and it changes the landscape of his life.

While there are many vampire novels to choose from, Failing Test stands on its own merits as a coming-of-age story mixed with a wonderful what-if scenario, proving that while Test is in some ways super human, he is also just as vulnerable as the rest of us, and pain is pain, even to someone who can easily throw cars and pulse his way around the world. I would love to see this character five years down the road when he has finally come to terms with who he is. Something tells me his world will be better for having him in it.
Profile Image for Imogen Rose.
Author 23 books590 followers
August 22, 2010
Just as teenager Test Davis delves into a blossoming romance with his long time crush, Nicole, he discovers that he has supernatural abilities. His powers are so intense that he struggles to control them, exploding his life into turmoil, violence and angst with the result that he becomes a fugitive running from the authorities while coming to terms with his powers. Will his romance with Nicole survive? Will he be able to come to terms with his powers and learn to control them? Will the world be able to accept him?

JM Pierce has written an engaging story told by two voices, by Test and by Nicole. Both characters are well fleshed. Test’s frustrations and angst left me rooting for him. I felt Nicole’s pain as she tried to decide whether to lead a fugitive’s life with Test or give him up. The story is far from over and I look forward to the sequel…. Get writing, JM!
Profile Image for Rebecca Graf.
Author 43 books88 followers
August 12, 2016
What if you suddenly had super powers that were dangerous and scared you? A young teen named Test finds that he does and it will change his life forever. He tries to understand his powers as he tries to keep it hidden but discovers that is easier said than done.
I found this a very interesting read. The fact that the young boy had no idea had me intrigued. Also, he was a typical teen struggling with his emotions. I loved how the character was developed and so realistic. His emotions and that of his friends were so much like my own teenage kids though without any superpowers involved.
A great read with a soft cliffhanger that had me buying the next book. I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
Note: I purchased this book with my own funds with no expectation of a positive review.
Profile Image for Sara.
227 reviews
March 26, 2011
I loved the premise of the book, but it failed to deliver for me. I felt like I was caught in an endless cycle of Test getting angry, saving someone, scaring them, and then convincing everyone it would all be okay. I wasn't sure I would ever slog past all of the Nicole business and discovering powers business to get to any actual plot. The romance and dialogue seemed forced. It was a fast read; if you're into the supernatural teen stuff, you'll probably really like it. I was hoping for more.
2 reviews
June 4, 2010
Fabulous first novel by a fantastic novelist. JM Pierce has a grasp of drama and suspense which might just grasp his readers by the short hairs on the back of their necks. Characters are lively and fleshed out, dramatic scenes are dramatic, and build ups are both interesting and rich. The novel held my interest from cover to cover and I'm eagerly awaiting the next story to come out of the mind of a future NYTimes best selling novelist.
Profile Image for Lisa Gibson.
157 reviews3 followers
July 30, 2010
The story of Test Davis pulled me in right away. I became absorbed into what was going on with him, would he wind up with Nicole, would he and his mother mend their tenuous relationship? To be honest the book was a little heavy on the description, which made it somewhat long as well. I was grateful that the story was as strong as it was. The character of Cliff, who comes towards the later portion of the book was fantastic. Overall, I enjoyed it
Profile Image for Nephilim.
1 review
April 14, 2013
I've now read the three books in the Shadow Series and I have to say I love them all. I was a bit hesitant at first about reading Failing Test. However, once I started reading it I couldn't put it down and could not wait to start the next book in the series. The only disappointment I had after reading these books was that I had read the three of them and there was no more.
Profile Image for Lisa.
3 reviews
June 5, 2016
Nice fresh summit read

I enjoyed a beach reading while scores of teens walked. Always wanted to test the powers that Test possess. Would I pass as well?
1 review
June 23, 2010
This is a wonderful book full of creativity and is full of excitement.
156 reviews7 followers
July 19, 2023
I love a good coming into powers/ability type book because there are so many ways it can go. This book took quite a few turns I wasn't expecting.

Test is your average 17 year old expect with a unique name. He is polite and keeps to a small circle of friends. He lives with his Mom but things are sort of weird with them, they don't see each other much. Everything changes in a blink of an eye for Test.

Test starts noticing things aren't like they normally are and some odd strange things are happening. In a matter of days things go from normal to absolute chaos. The question is can Test handle everything that is happening at such a fast pace?

Once you pick this up you won't be able to put it down.
Profile Image for Jamie.
329 reviews48 followers
March 31, 2015
Failing Test is like a thrill ride that is over before you are ready to get exit the ride. I was drawn in from the start and still wanting more at the dramatic ending.

Test Davis is a somewhat normal teenager who tries to stay in the shadows. That is until his crush Nicole tells him that she has been interested in him for a long time too. They have a sweet romance that quickly becomes complicated when Test discovers and reveals that he has supernatural powers. Test has trouble controlling his new found powers and things happen so fast that now he is a fugitive on the run. Nicole and Test's friends Mark, Marcy and Cliff must decide whether to help him or turn him in to the authorities.

I would love to tell you all the cool things that Test can do with his powers and how awesome some of the people in his life are. But I don't like to give away spoilers so you really should read this book for yourself. I loved it and didn't want to put it down. I found myself picking up my Kindle every chance I got to read it. This is one of the best stories that I have read lately. With the heart pounding action that seems to never end, a sweet romance and lots of suspense you will enjoy it too. I am looking forward to reading the sequel and finding out more about Test and his story. This e-book was provided to me by the author and/or publisher for review. This did not affect my review in any way.
Profile Image for Tessa.
95 reviews25 followers
March 21, 2011
I was sent this book by J.M. and I absolutely loved this story. It made me feel as if I were actually right there watching everything happen. The main character was always "highlighted", never muted out by others. I won't tell the story b/c I, myself, am not a fan of knowing the entirety of a book before I read it...so I won't spoil it for anyone else.

This is a story basically of choices, consequences, thrilling moments, heartfelt moments...and the like. While reading this novel, I was never thrown-off or lost. Each chapter was balanced, there wasn't anything left to be desired, so to speak. The story's very life-like, as the people in it will inevitablely become part of the reader's life while reading the book.

I gave this book 5 stars for it's great level of human perception. The characters were written out perfectly. Pierce is a great author. I look forward to reading more of his books. Next time I'm at Barnes & Nobles I will definitely keep my eyes peeled!
Profile Image for Pam.
813 reviews26 followers
April 21, 2011
Spoiler Inside

Interesting story...Test is a kid from the wrong side of the tracks being raised by a single mother who is more interested in where her next drink and next boyfriend are coming from.

Test has loved Nicole since he first laid eyes on her in elementary school...Now as a high school senior Nicole has revealed that she feels the same way for Test. No sooner do they get together and Test discovers he also has supernatural powers.

One of the things I liked most about this story was how the author handled Test's behavior after discovering his new found powers...the decisions to tell or not tell those close to him about them and any aftermath from that decision. I think that Test acted in an authentic way and the story reflects that.

I didn't realize until I started writing this review that there are additional books planned...so I am curious to see what the author will do with these characters in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Eileen.
67 reviews
May 27, 2012
I really wanted to like this book. And I did, at first. But then I kept reading and, well, I was able to put it down several times.

I liked Test until I didn't. I couldn't stand Nicole. And Mark and Marcy were one-dimensional; it was actually a painful read at times. In fact, most of the characters were bland. There were some good moments, but there were just as many parts that were either unrealistic (and I'm not talking about his superpowers here) or cliche.

The ending was adequate. Not what I would have chosen, but it was believable and wrapped up the story while still leaving room for a sequel.

But, as much as I hate to say it, I don't care enough about Test to pick up the next installment.
Profile Image for Audra.
37 reviews
March 16, 2014
This was a fantasy twist to a story of finding who you really are. The story was about a teenage boy, Test. Test has abilities that he knows nothing about until he is overwhelmed by emotion after being rejected by the girl he likes, Nicole, only to find out later she really did have feelings for him. As the book continues he learns what he is capable of and how to control it. Unfortunately at a party he runs into trouble with Nicole's old friends and his secret is exposed. He must decide whether to run or stay and face the fear of the people.
I enjoyed the relationship that built between Test and Nicole. About 75% into the book it becomes dry and hard to get through. However the ending is definitely worth pushing through for!
Profile Image for Dawn Judd.
Author 3 books25 followers
March 20, 2011
Mr. Pierce gave my daughter a copy of this book last fall when he attended her book fair. Try as I might, I couldn't get her to give it up so I could read it. Eventually I decided it wasn't going to happen and just ordered it on Kindle. I wish I had done it sooner. This was such a great book. It moved me in a way that I can't begin to describe. It is an exciting but heartbreaking tale, but the author leaves us with a glimmer of hope and a promise of a sequel. I loved the writing. It had such an easy tone and the pace was never dull. I am excitedly waiting to continue reading this story in the upcoming A Shadow's Light.
Profile Image for Sarah.
65 reviews5 followers
July 30, 2012
WOW. This book was amazing. I know I say that alot but I usually don't read something unless it catches my interest. Needless to say Failing Test did just that. I was hooked from the start. Test goes through so much. He goes from being so ordinary to having his life completely turned upside down and ruined. I like how the love story in this isn't your typical fairy tale romance. They have to go through so much to be together. Even then it looks as though they won't last. This book was so captivating. Test's powers are alot like a characters from another book I've read but the author does alot more with it. I loved all the characters! Overall excellent book I would recommend to anyone!
Profile Image for Liquid Frost.
599 reviews22 followers
October 25, 2013
Although YA, more obvious with the young boy/girl relations, this was an enjoyable freebie. Test, a 'blend-in' develops unique power and struggles with control. He's caught in a rather bleak life, finally dabbles with a girlfriend, has to deal with bullies, and THEN his world is truly turned upside down. He picks up a friend along the way, but his inner conflict keeps him lonely. I don't want to give away too much of the story, so vague I am.

Good kid + super power x conflict + angst = fun read.
249 reviews
March 5, 2015
I devoured reading this book

I was reading a series of books but had to take a break from it to read this book. It fired my imagination and I have quickly read this book and purchased the next one! I like how it did not sugar coat what the governments reaction would be to someone with powers like Test! Government would want to control it or kill it, no middle ground sadly. Nice page to price it got this reader hooked! Huge bonus all the books are out in this series! No there is no cliff hanger at the end just leaves you wanting to read more! Great reading experience!!
Profile Image for Felix.
37 reviews2 followers
September 10, 2015
Honestly, just an other case of buying a troyan horse. Looking awesome from the outside but once you start reading it it is just a good idear with nothing behind it.
I description had me really interested but it is done so poorly and I am not even looking out for editing errors. The characters, emotions or dialogs don't even try to feel real. The book has a good plot but that is the only thing it has going for it.
I hope the author does rewrite it someday once he has gained the ability to let the reader imagine this whole story happens in the world we life in and happens to humans.
2 reviews
April 6, 2014
It seemed like an intriguing premise when I first started reading. What would it be like to one day discover you had superpowers? However, I am half way through the book, and I am bored. I just can not finish this book. It moves a little too slow, and the characters are not particularly interesting. All the characters are very one dimensional, and the plot line is repetitive. This book just didn't work for me.
266 reviews
July 13, 2012
I liked the main character--an intelligent, sweet teenager--in the beginning of the novel. Then he develops super powers and turns into a raging, violent ass. I had a hard time getting into this novel. the story has a lot of potential and seems like it would be a book I would really like but the implementation is disappointing. I would probably still give the second book a shot in case the author improves.
Profile Image for Heather.
675 reviews3 followers
Read
April 19, 2013
I liked this book even though most people hated Test because they were afraid of him, even though the good guy did not get the girl, even though he goes off into the sun set sad and alone. Maybe "like" isn't the correct word cuz I feel bad for Test that he goes off alone, that his mother was a punk until the last minute, that the only man that was a father to him only made his acquaintance for a few days. It's a sad book really. Sad.
Profile Image for Judy.
141 reviews4 followers
March 4, 2014
My Review: This is pretty good young adult paranormal read. I like the concept of the shy boy with the powers. Maybe a little cliche but still enough new to keep it original. Some of the conversations were a little stilted and I never felt real involved with the characters emotions. However I am intrigued enough to want to read the next book. There were lots of editing mistakes. I give this 3 stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews

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