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Heart #1
Return the Heart
What if your gift was a curse? To a casual passerby, Lilly Paige is anything but special. As a seventeen year old, she is faced with all the complications of a teenager, but deep down there is much more. Lilly has a gift, though sometimes it seems to be a curse. Lilly can peer into the hearts of others - their deepest, darkest secrets are there for Lilly to see - but to what end? Raised by aloof parents, Lilly has been independent her whole life, but soon she will need to rely on her friends to evade an evil that has sold her gift to the highest bidder on the black market. Lilly and her four closest friends are immersed in a dangerous game of cat and mouse, that will not only reveal more about Lilly's gift, but also her link to an old Russian prophecy. Can Lilly and her friends escape the danger that is so close they can practically feel it? Where will their perilous journey lead them - to darkness or light? Return the Heart, by T. K. Richardson, will take readers on a wonderful adventure filled with excitement, twists, turns, and revelations that will keep you reading from start to finish. Join Lilly on her quest to learn more about this dangerous gift.
292 pages, Paperback
First published May 25, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 28, 2011
First of all, thank you Goodreads for my free signed copy!
I realize I’m being a little more generous with my rating than normal. But, it’s all about the timing. This book was the right book at the right time, one that I sneaked off to read during the day— which hasn’t happened in months! Not as an avoidance tactic to put off housework; the house was actually clean… well, mostly clean. Okay, it was a mess. But, there are just some things more important than mopping.
It was a fun, fast read with intrigue that started from the very beginning. The characters have special intuitive abilities, so I knew I was in for a treat. (Yes, I’m a sucker for people with powers.) It was plot driven and had a good pace. Granted, the action started up quickly so the characters aren’t developed as well as they could have been. But, they are likable enough. I liked the romantic attraction between Lilly and Seth from the very beginning even though the transition to desperate love is a bit hasty. But, they are good together.
At times the dialogue seemed a bit stiff; but it didn’t interfere with the flow of the story. And although there was nothing profound, there were occasionally some good one-liners. It was clean, a bit melodramatic, amusingly cheesy at times and simply enjoyable… oh, teen paranormal fiction how I have missed you!
I realize I’m being a little more generous with my rating than normal. But, it’s all about the timing. This book was the right book at the right time, one that I sneaked off to read during the day— which hasn’t happened in months! Not as an avoidance tactic to put off housework; the house was actually clean… well, mostly clean. Okay, it was a mess. But, there are just some things more important than mopping.
It was a fun, fast read with intrigue that started from the very beginning. The characters have special intuitive abilities, so I knew I was in for a treat. (Yes, I’m a sucker for people with powers.) It was plot driven and had a good pace. Granted, the action started up quickly so the characters aren’t developed as well as they could have been. But, they are likable enough. I liked the romantic attraction between Lilly and Seth from the very beginning even though the transition to desperate love is a bit hasty. But, they are good together.
At times the dialogue seemed a bit stiff; but it didn’t interfere with the flow of the story. And although there was nothing profound, there were occasionally some good one-liners. It was clean, a bit melodramatic, amusingly cheesy at times and simply enjoyable… oh, teen paranormal fiction how I have missed you!
August 15, 2010
To be completely honest, my hopes were not the highest before I ventured into the unknown trek that is Return the Heart. It just didn’t sound like it would appeal to me all that much. But I was pleasantly surprised by what I found.
Lilly was a great protagonist. She was strong, independent, and had the heart of a Russian (you will get this once you read the book). Her newfound friends were a little out of the blue, but they were (mostly) great. Claire is the perfect best friend, Seth is the perfect boyfriend, and the twins were… the twins.
The writing exhibited by T.K. Richardson in this book was phenomenal. I admit I was confused sometimes, but mostly I was always completely immersed in the story. There were a few issues I had with it, including the fact that it skips over chunks of time (which I am sort of glad she did, as it would slow the story down), but overall I really enjoyed the writing style.
The entire idea of this book was incredibly unique. I have read some things similar, but there is so much in this book that wasn’t in the others like it that it is impossible to say it is just like the other books out there. I had never really read anything about Russia or its lore before this, but now I am very interested in finding out more.
I would definitely recommend reading this brilliant debut for its strong protagonist, entertaining side characters, great writing style, unique idea that is like some, but is a world all its own, and for its creative ties to Russian mythology. I will be eagerly awaiting Return the Heart’s sequel, as this book left me wanting more, more, more!
Lilly was a great protagonist. She was strong, independent, and had the heart of a Russian (you will get this once you read the book). Her newfound friends were a little out of the blue, but they were (mostly) great. Claire is the perfect best friend, Seth is the perfect boyfriend, and the twins were… the twins.
The writing exhibited by T.K. Richardson in this book was phenomenal. I admit I was confused sometimes, but mostly I was always completely immersed in the story. There were a few issues I had with it, including the fact that it skips over chunks of time (which I am sort of glad she did, as it would slow the story down), but overall I really enjoyed the writing style.
The entire idea of this book was incredibly unique. I have read some things similar, but there is so much in this book that wasn’t in the others like it that it is impossible to say it is just like the other books out there. I had never really read anything about Russia or its lore before this, but now I am very interested in finding out more.
I would definitely recommend reading this brilliant debut for its strong protagonist, entertaining side characters, great writing style, unique idea that is like some, but is a world all its own, and for its creative ties to Russian mythology. I will be eagerly awaiting Return the Heart’s sequel, as this book left me wanting more, more, more!
May 13, 2015
Return the Heart is a wonderful debut novel. Penned by T.K. Richardson, this novel explores the world of Lilly Paige, a girl with a unique gift - the ability to read a person's heart and to see their true self.
I loved Return the Heart. There was enough action in it to keep me riveted, but what kept me turning pages was the character development. Richardson does a great job of writing Lilly. She acts and talks like a real teenager, but there is also this "old soul" quality to her because of her gift and the things she has seen of people as a result of the gift. I liked how Lilly developed from a self-reliant girl who saw her gift as a curse into a resourceful young woman who used her gift to help others.
I also liked how Richardson established the relationships between Lilly and her friends. In any other book, I might have found it unrealistic that Lilly gains instant friends and a guy who likes her. But, in Return the Heart, because of the story's premise, this was believable. It was nice to read about teenagers bonding and selflessly using their special gifts to help others.
Return the Heart made a big impression on me. It is well written, has great character development and explores the rich culture of Russia. I hope that T.K. Richardson writes more books with these characters. I am anxious to see what further adventures they will get into and how their gifts develop even more over time.
I loved Return the Heart. There was enough action in it to keep me riveted, but what kept me turning pages was the character development. Richardson does a great job of writing Lilly. She acts and talks like a real teenager, but there is also this "old soul" quality to her because of her gift and the things she has seen of people as a result of the gift. I liked how Lilly developed from a self-reliant girl who saw her gift as a curse into a resourceful young woman who used her gift to help others.
I also liked how Richardson established the relationships between Lilly and her friends. In any other book, I might have found it unrealistic that Lilly gains instant friends and a guy who likes her. But, in Return the Heart, because of the story's premise, this was believable. It was nice to read about teenagers bonding and selflessly using their special gifts to help others.
Return the Heart made a big impression on me. It is well written, has great character development and explores the rich culture of Russia. I hope that T.K. Richardson writes more books with these characters. I am anxious to see what further adventures they will get into and how their gifts develop even more over time.
July 27, 2010
I loved this book! And I'm not biased because T.K. is my friend. The growing love story between Lilly and Seth was wonderful. I liked the suspense surrounding the Russian prophecy that they were a part of. It kept the pages turning quickly for me. I reveled in them taking down some of the bad guys.
Lilly was realistic for a 17-year-old girl. She had self-doubt as so many teenage girls do, as well as a refreshing innocence about her. Seth was a well mannered, well intentioned, highly intelligent young man. Claire and the twins, Kyle and Andrew round out the group.
I did feel Lilly's lack of parental involvement or concern was a little troubling, but I liked her Aunt and Uncle. The lack of parents is nothing new in YA lit and I felt this was handled well by T.K. I just personally find it disturbing and I felt for poor Lilly. Sheesh, I almost forgot, the cover rocks too! I did throughly enjoy this book and would recommend for ages 13 and up
Lilly was realistic for a 17-year-old girl. She had self-doubt as so many teenage girls do, as well as a refreshing innocence about her. Seth was a well mannered, well intentioned, highly intelligent young man. Claire and the twins, Kyle and Andrew round out the group.
I did feel Lilly's lack of parental involvement or concern was a little troubling, but I liked her Aunt and Uncle. The lack of parents is nothing new in YA lit and I felt this was handled well by T.K. I just personally find it disturbing and I felt for poor Lilly. Sheesh, I almost forgot, the cover rocks too! I did throughly enjoy this book and would recommend for ages 13 and up
September 26, 2010
This book is targeted for young adults but it had plenty to keep my interest. All of the characters are nearing the end of high school and gifted in more ways than one. Lilly is the central character, but the whole group has a lot of personality and depth. All of them feel at once like teenagers and more mature. They've had to go through a lot in the book and before it so it makes sense.
There is a lot to this book. It has interesting glimpses into all kinds of different people and their motives. It challenges stereotypes and you get to see Lilly move from being an individual who is very isolated and doesn't trust pretty much anyone - to being part of a team, more of an extended family, that she depends on for her life.
It has mystery, action, romance, folklore... something for everyone. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I want to thank the author and Goodreads for providing the book (I won it in a drawing).
There is a lot to this book. It has interesting glimpses into all kinds of different people and their motives. It challenges stereotypes and you get to see Lilly move from being an individual who is very isolated and doesn't trust pretty much anyone - to being part of a team, more of an extended family, that she depends on for her life.
It has mystery, action, romance, folklore... something for everyone. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I want to thank the author and Goodreads for providing the book (I won it in a drawing).
January 23, 2011
Return the Heart is a wonderfully written first book, leaving me wanting so much more.
The character development made me keep turning the pages, Lilly was an awesome character, strong and brave, loyal, and just she had a vulnerability to her. I loved Claire-- her best friend, I would love it if she were mine. Seth is such a leader and soo desirable, I have yet another book boy that I would love to have a piece of.
The premise and the way that their gifts worked together was awesome, and unique. I don't know much about Russian mythology, but it is a really neat premise. The story weaved together beautifully, there were subplots that all worked together to make a rich and compelling story.
Return the Heart had action, romance, suspense, mystery, and spectacular characters. I wanted more, and didn't want for it to end.
The character development made me keep turning the pages, Lilly was an awesome character, strong and brave, loyal, and just she had a vulnerability to her. I loved Claire-- her best friend, I would love it if she were mine. Seth is such a leader and soo desirable, I have yet another book boy that I would love to have a piece of.
The premise and the way that their gifts worked together was awesome, and unique. I don't know much about Russian mythology, but it is a really neat premise. The story weaved together beautifully, there were subplots that all worked together to make a rich and compelling story.
Return the Heart had action, romance, suspense, mystery, and spectacular characters. I wanted more, and didn't want for it to end.
August 26, 2010
While this one is young adult, I totally got absorbed in it and can't wait for the sequel.
Lilly and her friends all have special talents that on their own, makes them a bit odd, but together it becomes dynamic and possibly deadly.
This book is part espionage, part supernatural, part teen romance and part coming of age. It's well done and worth the read!
More here: http://jeanoram.com/blog/2010/08/26/b...
Lilly and her friends all have special talents that on their own, makes them a bit odd, but together it becomes dynamic and possibly deadly.
This book is part espionage, part supernatural, part teen romance and part coming of age. It's well done and worth the read!
More here: http://jeanoram.com/blog/2010/08/26/b...
July 26, 2010
I was so into this book. It has a great premise and a very strong love story. It ended perfectly and I hope there's more books to come with these characters. What a great read. Thanks T.K.!
March 17, 2012
“She who reads the hearts of many shall return the hearts of many to Russia.” So is the story of Lily Paige, a girl with extraordinary abilities – to read and understand the hearts of people. No matter good or evil, you’re bound to be revealed completely in the eyes of this girl.
Even though the main character is Lily Paige, Return the Heart actually focuses on five teenagers, Seth, Claire, Kyle, Andrew and Lily herself – each of them with a different ability that can merge together as one in times of danger.
Lily’s character is portrayed as diminutive but with the heart of a lion. She seems introverted to me at first - being shy, having no friends and always avoiding Claire whenever she approaches her. But eventually, the gang is able to gain Lily’s trust, and she in turn, becomes best buddies with them.
I like how the author incorporates foreign elements in this story – a reflection of the Russian literature she greatly enjoys. Many of the characters in this story are Russians. Nikolai, a member of The Family, is a good friend of Lily. Even the evil character is a Russian. But the author did not give us a chance to discover his identity, as Lily was able to tell who he was at the first moment.
Lily and Seth’s romance seems a bit rushed. It’s like putting two ends of a magnet close to each other – they undergo an instant attraction towards each other, and quickly fall in love. Nevertheless, it is still sweet as they are getting to know each other more in the process, and Seth’s composure and leadership is admirable.
The part where the teens work together to thwart an evil scheme seems a bit unrealistic. Yes, it is true that they have special abilities, but somehow, I was flabbergasted upon knowing their plans. It’s just too much – what these teens could do, despite the author’s explanation about how things work out.
Return the Heart is a fairly well read, but perhaps it is more suitable for the younger me.
Even though the main character is Lily Paige, Return the Heart actually focuses on five teenagers, Seth, Claire, Kyle, Andrew and Lily herself – each of them with a different ability that can merge together as one in times of danger.
Lily’s character is portrayed as diminutive but with the heart of a lion. She seems introverted to me at first - being shy, having no friends and always avoiding Claire whenever she approaches her. But eventually, the gang is able to gain Lily’s trust, and she in turn, becomes best buddies with them.
I like how the author incorporates foreign elements in this story – a reflection of the Russian literature she greatly enjoys. Many of the characters in this story are Russians. Nikolai, a member of The Family, is a good friend of Lily. Even the evil character is a Russian. But the author did not give us a chance to discover his identity, as Lily was able to tell who he was at the first moment.
Lily and Seth’s romance seems a bit rushed. It’s like putting two ends of a magnet close to each other – they undergo an instant attraction towards each other, and quickly fall in love. Nevertheless, it is still sweet as they are getting to know each other more in the process, and Seth’s composure and leadership is admirable.
The part where the teens work together to thwart an evil scheme seems a bit unrealistic. Yes, it is true that they have special abilities, but somehow, I was flabbergasted upon knowing their plans. It’s just too much – what these teens could do, despite the author’s explanation about how things work out.
Return the Heart is a fairly well read, but perhaps it is more suitable for the younger me.
Read
April 19, 2011To be fair, I'm not going to rate this because I only made it to 15% before I couldn't continue. Maybe the remainder is better, but I can't force myself to keep going and find out.
The writing wasn't nearly descriptive enough. At one point Lilly says, "The cataclysmic shift within me couldn't allow a return to those simpler times. There was no going back.." This confused me because I was being told that something dramatic had occurred, but there wasn't anything written prior to those sentences that made me feel like anything intense or dramatic had taken place. I understand that she glimpsed an unsettling vision from Seth, but she's been frightened and timid about everything else so far. So it's hard to believe that she immediately has nerves of steel and says she isn't going down without a fight. The change was too abrupt and the entire scene seemed awkward and out of place.
Also, I couldn't shake the feeling that I've read this before. The new girl at school meets an overly-enthusiastic girl who can read her thoughts and decides immediately that they are going to be best friends. Then new girl meets new friend's brother who can see into the future. He's also brooding and mysterious and over-protective and new girl can't stop thinking about him. Oh, and he saves her from getting hit by a bus in the school parking lot. I realize that there was an absence of sparkling boys or cuddly werewolves in the story, but the similarities were enough to be distracting.
The writing wasn't nearly descriptive enough. At one point Lilly says, "The cataclysmic shift within me couldn't allow a return to those simpler times. There was no going back.." This confused me because I was being told that something dramatic had occurred, but there wasn't anything written prior to those sentences that made me feel like anything intense or dramatic had taken place. I understand that she glimpsed an unsettling vision from Seth, but she's been frightened and timid about everything else so far. So it's hard to believe that she immediately has nerves of steel and says she isn't going down without a fight. The change was too abrupt and the entire scene seemed awkward and out of place.
Also, I couldn't shake the feeling that I've read this before. The new girl at school meets an overly-enthusiastic girl who can read her thoughts and decides immediately that they are going to be best friends. Then new girl meets new friend's brother who can see into the future. He's also brooding and mysterious and over-protective and new girl can't stop thinking about him. Oh, and he saves her from getting hit by a bus in the school parking lot. I realize that there was an absence of sparkling boys or cuddly werewolves in the story, but the similarities were enough to be distracting.
December 8, 2010
This was a hard book to rate. If I rated it on the first 6 chapters, I probably would've given it a three. If I rated it on the second half, I would've given it a very strong 5. The plot was wonderful, the characters were great, and the writing of the second half flowed very well.
However, the flow of the first six chapters was kind of choppy. I felt like the narrator in the beginning was kinda scatterbrained. Her thoughts were bouncing from thought to thought and it was hard to keep up.
That being said, the book could have been a little longer. :-) In a perfect world, I would have loved those first six chapters to be expanded to about 12 chapters so the narrator could expand and explain her thoughts so it didn't seem so jumpy.
I think I remembered reading that this is a trilogy, so I can't WAIT to read what happens next. I thought the future books were set up nicely while still wrapping this book up successfully.
However, the flow of the first six chapters was kind of choppy. I felt like the narrator in the beginning was kinda scatterbrained. Her thoughts were bouncing from thought to thought and it was hard to keep up.
That being said, the book could have been a little longer. :-) In a perfect world, I would have loved those first six chapters to be expanded to about 12 chapters so the narrator could expand and explain her thoughts so it didn't seem so jumpy.
I think I remembered reading that this is a trilogy, so I can't WAIT to read what happens next. I thought the future books were set up nicely while still wrapping this book up successfully.
November 5, 2010
Well from the cover of the book I was already drawn into this book. It makes you want to know more about the setting of the novel. It was very action packed and not like anything I have read before. It was realistically told and just overall I fell in love with the characters. The book kept you wondering what was going to happen next. I really can't wait for the next book because this one was just fantastic.
August 7, 2010
Return the Heart was written for and dedicated to the five most wonderful people I know, so I'm rating Return the Heart with 5 stars - one star for each of them.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews