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Escaping Fate #1
Escaping Fate
Uncovering the truth behind her strange dreams may cost Arrabella her life, but ignoring them may lead to something even worse. Turning sixteen should mean driving, dating, and breaking curfew.
It shouldn’t mean certain death.
Arrabella might have been excited for her upcoming birthday if her parents hadn’t just moved her to the middle of nowhere.
Worse than missing the city and her friends is the nightmare that assaults her every night. Stalking her dreams, a raven-haired girl warns her, taunts her, as she is paraded toward her death.
In search of answers, Arra turns to her grandfather, the only person willing to delve into her family’s dark past. Warning her that once she takes the first step, there is no going back, he begins to unwind their awful heritage.
She can’t tell her parents what is waiting for her, so she turns to a new friend, Tanner Wheeler, a young man she barely knows but is immediately drawn to. Together, they unravel a story of selfish betrayal that reaches back to an age of merciless gods and blood sacrifice.
It shouldn’t mean certain death.
Arrabella might have been excited for her upcoming birthday if her parents hadn’t just moved her to the middle of nowhere.
Worse than missing the city and her friends is the nightmare that assaults her every night. Stalking her dreams, a raven-haired girl warns her, taunts her, as she is paraded toward her death.
In search of answers, Arra turns to her grandfather, the only person willing to delve into her family’s dark past. Warning her that once she takes the first step, there is no going back, he begins to unwind their awful heritage.
She can’t tell her parents what is waiting for her, so she turns to a new friend, Tanner Wheeler, a young man she barely knows but is immediately drawn to. Together, they unravel a story of selfish betrayal that reaches back to an age of merciless gods and blood sacrifice.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2010
7 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
About the author
DelSheree Gladden
48 books447 followersDelSheree Gladden was one of those shy, quiet kids who spent more time reading than talking. Literally. She didn't speak a single word for the first three months of preschool. Her fascination with reading led to many hours spent in the library and bookstores, and eventually to writing. She wrote her first novel when she was sixteen years old, but spent ten years rewriting it before having it published.
Native to New Mexico, DelSheree and her family spent several years in Colorado for college and work before moving back home to be near family. When not writing novels, you can find DelSheree reading, painting, sewing, and working with other authors.
DelSheree has several bestselling young adult series and has hit the USA Today Bestseller list twice as part of box sets. DelSheree also has contemporary romance, cozy mystery, and paranormal new adult series. Her writing is as varied as her reading interests.
Native to New Mexico, DelSheree and her family spent several years in Colorado for college and work before moving back home to be near family. When not writing novels, you can find DelSheree reading, painting, sewing, and working with other authors.
DelSheree has several bestselling young adult series and has hit the USA Today Bestseller list twice as part of box sets. DelSheree also has contemporary romance, cozy mystery, and paranormal new adult series. Her writing is as varied as her reading interests.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
March 26, 2014
Arra has been having nightmares. The nightmares link her to a aztec girl who is about to be sacrificed. The question is, what do the nightmares have to do with Arra and why do they keep recurring, getting worse every night? Arra is a sweet girl with a very stable family life, so why such awful nightmares? The answers come to the reader slowly as Arra begins to unwind her family’s history.
Gladden’s characters are well-developed and extremely likable. Her prose is clean, which is nice to find in self-published books. I liked the family dynamics, especially Arra’s relationship with her grandfather. Also Arra’s connection with Tanner was very innocent and sweet. The Aztec curse was a nice touch with an insight into another culture, something we don’t get much of in young adult. I do have to say that Aztecs didn’t go as far as South America. Aztecs inhabited what is now Mexico, so a correction might be in order.
My only complaint is that the plot moves too slowly. There are parts that felt repetitive such as reading in her aunt’s diary about the same nightmares Arra was having—especially since the diary didn’t divulge anything new or advanced the plot. Dreams aren’t my favorite storytelling device. To add to this, the recurring nightmares started to seem unnecessary, especially after I had a very good idea of what was going on. I felt the same way about Arra’s research into her family history.
In the end, Gladden ties up the story nicely, if not with a big surprise ending. Especially, I like the fate she devised for Kivera.
Gladden’s characters are well-developed and extremely likable. Her prose is clean, which is nice to find in self-published books. I liked the family dynamics, especially Arra’s relationship with her grandfather. Also Arra’s connection with Tanner was very innocent and sweet. The Aztec curse was a nice touch with an insight into another culture, something we don’t get much of in young adult. I do have to say that Aztecs didn’t go as far as South America. Aztecs inhabited what is now Mexico, so a correction might be in order.
My only complaint is that the plot moves too slowly. There are parts that felt repetitive such as reading in her aunt’s diary about the same nightmares Arra was having—especially since the diary didn’t divulge anything new or advanced the plot. Dreams aren’t my favorite storytelling device. To add to this, the recurring nightmares started to seem unnecessary, especially after I had a very good idea of what was going on. I felt the same way about Arra’s research into her family history.
In the end, Gladden ties up the story nicely, if not with a big surprise ending. Especially, I like the fate she devised for Kivera.
August 29, 2014
Wow! I'm really speechless. First I was weary at first and stalled reading Escaping Fate, I don't remember why now but I want smack myself into a wall right next to me for delaying it so long.
It was there on my kindle(and it is free if you haven't noticed) and I just thought to read it anyways, I love Author DelSheree Gladden's books and I knew I would not be disappointed. So, I started reading and in first few chapters it totally got me hooked and I was looking forward to read it one sitting if not for sleeping and my college.
Her dream spooked me, as I started reading kinda midnight,but not in a bad way. You will like it, I was enjoying the thrill and anticipation to find out more and hoping she comes out unscathed from the curse. The description were vivid, I was able to feel her fear, her emotions.
When I couldn't read due to my college I thought, how the story is going to unfold.
Arrabella first came out bratty but to think from her point of view I would have been same, but as story proceeded, I could see her strength and to sacrifice herself to remove the lifelong curse, that's great. Her Grandfather is a hero. He is awesome.
The story had suspense, mystery and sweet romance between Arrabella and Tanner.
This is awesome and it don't end on cliffhanger, I was so dreading it with when I was in the last step of the book and didn't wanted to finish it already. I was craving for more even before it ended. Going to start Soul Stone. Yay!!
This story is a must read!
It was there on my kindle(and it is free if you haven't noticed) and I just thought to read it anyways, I love Author DelSheree Gladden's books and I knew I would not be disappointed. So, I started reading and in first few chapters it totally got me hooked and I was looking forward to read it one sitting if not for sleeping and my college.
Her dream spooked me, as I started reading kinda midnight,but not in a bad way. You will like it, I was enjoying the thrill and anticipation to find out more and hoping she comes out unscathed from the curse. The description were vivid, I was able to feel her fear, her emotions.
When I couldn't read due to my college I thought, how the story is going to unfold.
Arrabella first came out bratty but to think from her point of view I would have been same, but as story proceeded, I could see her strength and to sacrifice herself to remove the lifelong curse, that's great. Her Grandfather is a hero. He is awesome.
The story had suspense, mystery and sweet romance between Arrabella and Tanner.
This is awesome and it don't end on cliffhanger, I was so dreading it with when I was in the last step of the book and didn't wanted to finish it already. I was craving for more even before it ended. Going to start Soul Stone. Yay!!
This story is a must read!
February 20, 2014
I read this book in three sittings, the more I got into the story the less I wanted to stop! If you're looking for a fast-paced and easy to enjoy novel then Escaping Fate is my pick for you. There is a fascinating but simply-delivered plot that readers of any age and ability can enjoy with likeable characters (and I say that as a person who generally doesn't like teenage leads!).
What I really particularly loved about Escaping Fate was the cultural flavour and sinister connections to the ancient Aztec culture. DelSheree Gladden's descriptions were vivid and colourful as she brings to life an ancient world and meshes it with modern teenage life in a skilful way. This is a great rendition of an impending doom story, not overdone or over-dramatised in any way but with plenty of tension to keep you going and wondering what's going to happen next.
I'm onto book two from here for sure!
What I really particularly loved about Escaping Fate was the cultural flavour and sinister connections to the ancient Aztec culture. DelSheree Gladden's descriptions were vivid and colourful as she brings to life an ancient world and meshes it with modern teenage life in a skilful way. This is a great rendition of an impending doom story, not overdone or over-dramatised in any way but with plenty of tension to keep you going and wondering what's going to happen next.
I'm onto book two from here for sure!
April 28, 2014
After reading the Destroyer trilogy by Delsheree Gladden – which I loved – I had high hopes for Escaping Fate. And I have to say that I was not disappointed.
Escaping Fate tells the story of Arra and the lead up to her 16th birthday. After moving to the small town of Grainer against her choice she discovers some alarming secrets in her family history. First she starts having vivid dreams about a young girl being ripped from her home in the middle of the night and being taken and prepared to be sacrificed to an ancient Aztec God. Each night brings a new dream with more of the story. She soon connects her dreams to her family by some photos she finds while unpacking boxes in her new home. She finds pictures of her dad’s sister and her Grandpa’s sister and unnervingly they look exactly like her and after some research she realises that they both died on their 16th birthday. She finds help in her Grandpa and finds out that he has been researching this phenomenon since his sister died all those years ago. They have to work together to try and stop what happened to her female ancestors happening to Arra on her 16th birthday.
During this time Arra meets Tanner, who makes living in Grainer seem slightly more bearable and starts an ill-advised romance with him, knowing that it may only last a few days. This was a sweet relationship and didn’t move too fast as some books do. It seems normal to ‘fast-track’ a relationship under these circumstances but I loved the fact that this was kept realistic and believable between two people who have only know each other a few days. Their relationship was sweet and will hopefully develop in the next book in the series.
This was an interesting concept and was well written and I loved the Aztec element in the story and there was a satisfying ending. If I had one complaint (if you can even call it that) it was just too short, I could have read so much more! Looking forward to the next book.
Escaping Fate tells the story of Arra and the lead up to her 16th birthday. After moving to the small town of Grainer against her choice she discovers some alarming secrets in her family history. First she starts having vivid dreams about a young girl being ripped from her home in the middle of the night and being taken and prepared to be sacrificed to an ancient Aztec God. Each night brings a new dream with more of the story. She soon connects her dreams to her family by some photos she finds while unpacking boxes in her new home. She finds pictures of her dad’s sister and her Grandpa’s sister and unnervingly they look exactly like her and after some research she realises that they both died on their 16th birthday. She finds help in her Grandpa and finds out that he has been researching this phenomenon since his sister died all those years ago. They have to work together to try and stop what happened to her female ancestors happening to Arra on her 16th birthday.
During this time Arra meets Tanner, who makes living in Grainer seem slightly more bearable and starts an ill-advised romance with him, knowing that it may only last a few days. This was a sweet relationship and didn’t move too fast as some books do. It seems normal to ‘fast-track’ a relationship under these circumstances but I loved the fact that this was kept realistic and believable between two people who have only know each other a few days. Their relationship was sweet and will hopefully develop in the next book in the series.
This was an interesting concept and was well written and I loved the Aztec element in the story and there was a satisfying ending. If I had one complaint (if you can even call it that) it was just too short, I could have read so much more! Looking forward to the next book.
February 20, 2014
Escaping Fate is the story of Arabella, a 15 almost 16 year old girl, who in the week prior to her birthday, begins having nightmares that seem very confusing. She learns that the women in her line are cursed to die on their 16th birthday. Arabella doesn't want that fate, but can she do anything to stop it?
First and foremost, I enjoyed the dual stories that were unfolding as the book progressed. Each chapter gave me more information and I was excited to read more. I found I was kept on my toes and unable to predict the outcome, which is something I can appreciate as a reader.
I found Arabella to be relatable, even with her impending doom. She reacted like one would expect in her situation and I loved her that much more for it. She didn't get overly weepy but instead tried to take control and fix the situation. I also liked that she wasn't completely distracted by a boy. All in all, I feel that she's a good role model.
Now, one of my favorite parts of the book was the Aztec stuff. I'm not overly familiar with that culture but the way in which the information was delivered was great. I liked that we got it bit by bit because it allowed me to mull it over and theorize over what might occur. I enjoyed how this culture of the past played such an important role in the story.
I can honestly say that I have full intentions of recommending this book. Especially those who appreciate historical fiction. I look forward to reading the sequel so I can continue to find out more about this world.
First and foremost, I enjoyed the dual stories that were unfolding as the book progressed. Each chapter gave me more information and I was excited to read more. I found I was kept on my toes and unable to predict the outcome, which is something I can appreciate as a reader.
I found Arabella to be relatable, even with her impending doom. She reacted like one would expect in her situation and I loved her that much more for it. She didn't get overly weepy but instead tried to take control and fix the situation. I also liked that she wasn't completely distracted by a boy. All in all, I feel that she's a good role model.
Now, one of my favorite parts of the book was the Aztec stuff. I'm not overly familiar with that culture but the way in which the information was delivered was great. I liked that we got it bit by bit because it allowed me to mull it over and theorize over what might occur. I enjoyed how this culture of the past played such an important role in the story.
I can honestly say that I have full intentions of recommending this book. Especially those who appreciate historical fiction. I look forward to reading the sequel so I can continue to find out more about this world.
January 7, 2014
4.5 stars
This story was SO good! I loved the curse! or should I say I loved to hate it?? Such an intriguing idea! Either way, I thought this story was great. The plot was enchanting. The characters were well developed and compelling. I loved Arrabella, she felt so genuine. All the characters were likeable and relatable. Overall, this was a very imaginative and captivating story. I couldn't put it down.
This story was SO good! I loved the curse! or should I say I loved to hate it?? Such an intriguing idea! Either way, I thought this story was great. The plot was enchanting. The characters were well developed and compelling. I loved Arrabella, she felt so genuine. All the characters were likeable and relatable. Overall, this was a very imaginative and captivating story. I couldn't put it down.
September 9, 2010
This was an amazing book! "Escaping Fate" kept me guessing right up until the very end, and thinking about it for days afterwards. I love a book like this that makes me want to go out and read more about a culture and a people that I'm unfamiliar with. I can't wait for my girls to read this book, 'cause I know that they'll love it too!
June 3, 2014
okay a modern day miracle has occurred. a stand alone book with all the care and great writing that you usually only find In series. what would you do if you found out you looked just like your aunt yor grand aunt and a line of girls stretching back as far as the 1800's and that they died on their 16th birthday . oh yah your 16th birthday is three days away . no spoilers read the book
May 25, 2014
Escaping fate was an excellent book that definatly gets the heart racing as time is ticking for poor Arra. A must read :)
January 14, 2015
A fair enough read for a YA book. The ending feels rushed and Arrabelle feels a bit flat.
July 22, 2017
4.5
So, I'm not usually a fan of fantasy or mythology, but I LOVED this book. However, there is one thing preventing me from giving it a full five stars:
Tanner is TOO perfect??
Like, the plot with Arra and the sacrifices and all the girls who've died was absolutely fascinating and I loved it. However, Tanner....while I like his character, he was way too perfect. They caught feelings for each other way too quickly and she felt like she could trust him after like, three days of knowing him? If I were Tanner and my three-day-old crush told me that she was going to be sacrificed to the Aztec Gods tomorrow, I'd go running for the hills. Plus, Tanner himself has absolutely no quirks or flaws that make him realistic or relatable.
So, yeah. I loved Arra and her grandpa, LOVED the plot. But Tanner is a little too unbelievable for me.
So, I'm not usually a fan of fantasy or mythology, but I LOVED this book. However, there is one thing preventing me from giving it a full five stars:
Tanner is TOO perfect??
Like, the plot with Arra and the sacrifices and all the girls who've died was absolutely fascinating and I loved it. However, Tanner....while I like his character, he was way too perfect. They caught feelings for each other way too quickly and she felt like she could trust him after like, three days of knowing him? If I were Tanner and my three-day-old crush told me that she was going to be sacrificed to the Aztec Gods tomorrow, I'd go running for the hills. Plus, Tanner himself has absolutely no quirks or flaws that make him realistic or relatable.
So, yeah. I loved Arra and her grandpa, LOVED the plot. But Tanner is a little too unbelievable for me.
August 30, 2010
This book is a great reluctant reader book for young adults. Filled with action, romance, and mystery, Arrabella's fight for her life will keep you turning pages all the way to the end.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews