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Odin's Murder
“Hard time prepared me for many things, but playing research assistant to a flock of nerds wasn’t one of them.”
Ethan Tyrell is out of his element at the College Scholastic Honors Program for exceptional students. But at least he’s out of prison. Keeping his temper and his hands to himself isn’t so easy when an irritating professor demands full participation with a mismatched study group, where he clashes with his roommate’s sister, Memory.
Memory Erikssen is not the kind of girl a boy can forget; she makes sure of that. Quick with both a charcoal pencil and a lipstick, she won’t draw the same line or walk the same path twice, and antagonizing Ethan is a break from the usual academic doldrums.
Ethan and Memory find themselves tangled together by more than their special abilities–and mutual irritation–as members of their team go missing, and they unravel a dangerous mystery that spans centuries of local and distant legends.
Ethan Tyrell is out of his element at the College Scholastic Honors Program for exceptional students. But at least he’s out of prison. Keeping his temper and his hands to himself isn’t so easy when an irritating professor demands full participation with a mismatched study group, where he clashes with his roommate’s sister, Memory.
Memory Erikssen is not the kind of girl a boy can forget; she makes sure of that. Quick with both a charcoal pencil and a lipstick, she won’t draw the same line or walk the same path twice, and antagonizing Ethan is a break from the usual academic doldrums.
Ethan and Memory find themselves tangled together by more than their special abilities–and mutual irritation–as members of their team go missing, and they unravel a dangerous mystery that spans centuries of local and distant legends.
275 pages, ebook
First published September 8, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 23, 2013
I had actually decided to have a break from YA fiction, which I generally enjoy, but lately has seemed very samey.
I made an exception for this ARC though as it was by 2 authors I have very much enjoyed reading in the past. I am so glad I did.
Firstly I should say this is categorised as New Adult rather than YA. I am not sure what the difference is but I am guessing it has a more explicit (though not graphic)sexual content. It is in fact age specific to the characters in the book. Straight away this makes the characters more real. Sex is a very small percentage of the book but sexual remarks, insults and flirting are there - which is exactly how people this age behave.
There are certain things that seem to come up again and again in this genre, most notably the love triangle. I was glad to note there are no love triangles in this. Or any instant soul mate falling in love moment. There are relationships - all sorts of relationships - many of them messy and inadvisable. There are people who behave badly and people who behave better than you expect and these are sometimes the same person. I suppose what I am saying is that the characters were 3 dimensional, and likeable even when they behaved stupidly.
There is a lot of mythology and pseudo mythology in fiction nowadays too - I like both but it was refreshing to have a Scandinavian perspective, much darker and more primitive than the Greeks.
What I loved most though was that there were no endless pages setting up the story and giving detailed back stories explaining why the characters were like they were. It was a great example of 'show don't tell', as the story itself revealed these facts.
The story is told from two alternating POVs which on the whole worked seamlessly although considering there are parts of shared consciousness did sometimes become confusing. However this was not a negative, rather reinforcing the characters own confusion.
The pacing was perfect, nothing unnecessary, although I wouldn't have complained if there had been more of it as the writing was great and the characters interesting. There was no rush towards the end as if the authors didn't know how to end it since the story was planned and had a preconceived ending.
There was no cliff hanger ending - the curse of modern fiction. I could well imagine sequels, and I would love to read them, but the book stands on it's own. The end is both satisfying and open ended.
If you want a well written adventure with a good dash of the supernatural and fantastic characters give this a go.
September 10, 2013
Odin's Murder Isn't Your Average Flock of Birds
Ethan Tyrell knows how to work the system because that’s where he’s languished most of his life. Without a loving family to keep him on the straight-and-narrow, he harbors bitter anger, and might have fallen through the cracks were it not for a caring social worker who recognized his talent and pulled some strings to get him into a refined honors program at a local college. Each student has been selected based on a unique skillset they bring to the table. Or are they?
Getting into scrapes don’t bother Ethan, but it might ruin his chances of of staying out of prison. However, trouble seems to follow him, and she’s a smart, leggy brunette named Memory Erickssen who has the goods and knows just how to flaunt them to her advantage. She also happens to be Ethan’s roommate’s twin sister, and somehow they all get thrown together for a group project by a quirky professor who seems hell-bent on amplifying Ethan’s suffering among the nerds.
Early on, Ethan doubts his ability to keep up with these academically gifted students, questioning why he was thrown together with the likes of the brilliant twins, and Faye, the daughter of an expert linguist who has come into her own as an expert in ancient languages and mythology. Ethan's photography, however, is not shabby, so he has a gift to share with the team. When Memory’s roommate, Sonja, from the previous year is a no-show, the project group begins down by one, which irritates Julian, Memory’s twin, to no end. Julian is competitive and wants to win the competition since he came so close to doing so the year before. The team struggles to impress the professor academically while solving the mystery of first Sonja’s disappearance, and then the methodical dropping of other team members like flies--or dead crows.
This New Adult paranormal romance is one of the most intelligent I’ve read since the advent of this new genre. Lawson and Gold spin a savvy tale which delves into a little-used mythology that makes it a fresh read. The characters are as mature as a group of soon-to-be college matriculaters can be, and very well-rounded. None are left without a purpose or used inappropriately in the story. Both the main plot and the sub-plots are very-well written and fleshed out to their potential. The romance that blossoms between the characters happens naturally, and isn’t forced or thrust immediately upon the reader. The primary story threads effortlessly through Ethan and Memory’s love-hate relationship that finally culminates in a connection that isn’t contrived or insta-love as a lot of YA/NA stories tend to be today.
The authors have an unparalleled skill for writing wonderful prose and one-liners that keep the reader interested in what these characters do and say. Even if there wasn’t a couple of burgeoning romances interwoven into the story, the solving of the mystery alone would keep a reader on their toes.
As the students uncover layer after layer of the mythology surrounding their research subject, they discover clues that bring them closer to figuring out where their members are going. But will they be too late?
I give Odin’s Murder 5 out of 5 stars!
Ethan Tyrell knows how to work the system because that’s where he’s languished most of his life. Without a loving family to keep him on the straight-and-narrow, he harbors bitter anger, and might have fallen through the cracks were it not for a caring social worker who recognized his talent and pulled some strings to get him into a refined honors program at a local college. Each student has been selected based on a unique skillset they bring to the table. Or are they?
Getting into scrapes don’t bother Ethan, but it might ruin his chances of of staying out of prison. However, trouble seems to follow him, and she’s a smart, leggy brunette named Memory Erickssen who has the goods and knows just how to flaunt them to her advantage. She also happens to be Ethan’s roommate’s twin sister, and somehow they all get thrown together for a group project by a quirky professor who seems hell-bent on amplifying Ethan’s suffering among the nerds.
Early on, Ethan doubts his ability to keep up with these academically gifted students, questioning why he was thrown together with the likes of the brilliant twins, and Faye, the daughter of an expert linguist who has come into her own as an expert in ancient languages and mythology. Ethan's photography, however, is not shabby, so he has a gift to share with the team. When Memory’s roommate, Sonja, from the previous year is a no-show, the project group begins down by one, which irritates Julian, Memory’s twin, to no end. Julian is competitive and wants to win the competition since he came so close to doing so the year before. The team struggles to impress the professor academically while solving the mystery of first Sonja’s disappearance, and then the methodical dropping of other team members like flies--or dead crows.
This New Adult paranormal romance is one of the most intelligent I’ve read since the advent of this new genre. Lawson and Gold spin a savvy tale which delves into a little-used mythology that makes it a fresh read. The characters are as mature as a group of soon-to-be college matriculaters can be, and very well-rounded. None are left without a purpose or used inappropriately in the story. Both the main plot and the sub-plots are very-well written and fleshed out to their potential. The romance that blossoms between the characters happens naturally, and isn’t forced or thrust immediately upon the reader. The primary story threads effortlessly through Ethan and Memory’s love-hate relationship that finally culminates in a connection that isn’t contrived or insta-love as a lot of YA/NA stories tend to be today.
The authors have an unparalleled skill for writing wonderful prose and one-liners that keep the reader interested in what these characters do and say. Even if there wasn’t a couple of burgeoning romances interwoven into the story, the solving of the mystery alone would keep a reader on their toes.
As the students uncover layer after layer of the mythology surrounding their research subject, they discover clues that bring them closer to figuring out where their members are going. But will they be too late?
I give Odin’s Murder 5 out of 5 stars!
September 11, 2013
I've been reading everything that I can get my hands on by Angel Lawson and have not yet been disappointed. Having some familiarity with Kira's writing made me sure that I would enjoy this collaboration. Absolutely wonderful book!
My review as follows:
Love it, love it, love it! I so much enjoyed getting to know the characters and the stories that each one brings into the Academic summer camp.Watching the characters begin to involve each other in their questionable quest was so much fun! Just finished this great book, and it left me wanting more! I love the relationships and and the delightful arrangement and reveal of each piece of the puzzle. Really "loved" the murder itself! (Keep in mind the several meanings of the word!) My only regret at this point is that now that I am done reading, I don't have this one to look forward to it any more!!
You must read this book!! Definitely a keeper!
My review as follows:
Love it, love it, love it! I so much enjoyed getting to know the characters and the stories that each one brings into the Academic summer camp.Watching the characters begin to involve each other in their questionable quest was so much fun! Just finished this great book, and it left me wanting more! I love the relationships and and the delightful arrangement and reveal of each piece of the puzzle. Really "loved" the murder itself! (Keep in mind the several meanings of the word!) My only regret at this point is that now that I am done reading, I don't have this one to look forward to it any more!!
You must read this book!! Definitely a keeper!
September 23, 2013
Odin's Murder is a snappy collaboration between two authors who created an NA story which seems to fall somewhere between YA and full fledged Adult. While I think the story leaned more toward the YA genre it did have some elements that would make it more Adult. It was a good bridging book between the two, YA with a little grit :)
What I liked about the book in particular was the characters and their history and development. I thought the pairings were very good and they intrigued me.
I loved that the book ended! It seems all to often these days we read a book and the author needs to set you up for a sequel, for whatever reason, and they refuse to END the book. As an avid reader I appreciate an author giving me the credit to interpret a book and decide to read on because I like a series rather than lead me to the next book because there is no actual ending in the last one.
No Cliffie! Again with the above note, I love that the book ended! There is definitely opportunity to continue on with another story for these characters and I love that there is that opportunity but it's not necessary.
The slow burn :) I loved the slow development of the characters. Julian and Faye, Ethan and Memory, all awesome characters with their own identity, all in a situation that facilitates easy pairing but it wasn't "love at first sight", there was no angst with an overly obvious love triangle (the most overused plot line in my opinion). It was a realistic build of four character with their own issues and how they try to take their issues and meld them with someone else's issues. I LOVED how they took their time and came together.
Resolution. Ethan has to "do his time" for his actions. Memory had to realize her shortcomings to trust herself and Ethan to develop something worth keeping. I loved the accountability for their actions and the reality mixed in with my fantasy. Perfect kind of book for me :)
What I liked about the book in particular was the characters and their history and development. I thought the pairings were very good and they intrigued me.
I loved that the book ended! It seems all to often these days we read a book and the author needs to set you up for a sequel, for whatever reason, and they refuse to END the book. As an avid reader I appreciate an author giving me the credit to interpret a book and decide to read on because I like a series rather than lead me to the next book because there is no actual ending in the last one.
No Cliffie! Again with the above note, I love that the book ended! There is definitely opportunity to continue on with another story for these characters and I love that there is that opportunity but it's not necessary.
The slow burn :) I loved the slow development of the characters. Julian and Faye, Ethan and Memory, all awesome characters with their own identity, all in a situation that facilitates easy pairing but it wasn't "love at first sight", there was no angst with an overly obvious love triangle (the most overused plot line in my opinion). It was a realistic build of four character with their own issues and how they try to take their issues and meld them with someone else's issues. I LOVED how they took their time and came together.
Resolution. Ethan has to "do his time" for his actions. Memory had to realize her shortcomings to trust herself and Ethan to develop something worth keeping. I loved the accountability for their actions and the reality mixed in with my fantasy. Perfect kind of book for me :)
September 17, 2013
I picked up this book because it was co-authored by someone who wrote one of my favorite fanfictions "Tropic of Virgo"-Kira Gold. The story centers around 4 teens (17,18) who are chosen to participate in a special program for gifted teenagers at a university. It's told from two points of view-Ethan, someone who is currently doing time for being a thief and for being in too many fights, and Memory who has eidactic (I think) memory-which is someone who recalls everything that they've seen and experienced exactly down to the smallest detail (it was never addressed whether this was really her name or a nickname though). The characters acted in ways that I thought were age appropriate. No love triangle here and Ethan and Memory really fought their attraction to each other. I liked the way that it incorporated ancient Norse mythology. That's a different approach than some other things that I've read. I'm assuming that there will be other books in the series but this book did have an ending that wrapped up this story.
September 12, 2013
Possibly the best story I've read in a month of books. The authors managed something that I was worried wasn't going to ever happen again for me: 5 freaking stars!!
I wish there were illustrations for the text. I would have loved to see the runes, and the objects mentioned (tattoos, charms, the marbles, and the ring). Plus, the descriptions of the chapel and the initial raven in her cage were described so vividly, I would just love to see them on paper.
I can't imagine the amount of work and research needed for this story. I have no clue if any of it is based on actual anthropology/archaeology, but it was portrayed very realistically. It left me believing in the storyline, which was engrossing.
The characters were distinct, the evil person I guessed pretty quickly, but the last plot twist surprised me in a good way. The writing was absolutely fantastic.
Please tell me there is a sequel?
I wish there were illustrations for the text. I would have loved to see the runes, and the objects mentioned (tattoos, charms, the marbles, and the ring). Plus, the descriptions of the chapel and the initial raven in her cage were described so vividly, I would just love to see them on paper.
I can't imagine the amount of work and research needed for this story. I have no clue if any of it is based on actual anthropology/archaeology, but it was portrayed very realistically. It left me believing in the storyline, which was engrossing.
The characters were distinct, the evil person I guessed pretty quickly, but the last plot twist surprised me in a good way. The writing was absolutely fantastic.
Please tell me there is a sequel?
September 22, 2013
I hate reviewing books like this because it makes me feel so uneducated and such a failure. How can I broadcast my love for this adequately? It is a lovely refreshing read, too often books for teens have the same formula so to come across a book that has clearly been researched and has such depth of imagery and plot as well a great deal of originality was a total delight. The alternate chapter points of view moved the book on nicely and gave balance to the characters, both main and secondary, as well as giving direction to changes of scenery, atmosphere, etc. It is very readable and both authors have collaborated well to produce an intelligent mystery/suspense.
September 10, 2013
I read this book in a day. Sorry kids that need to be fed, sorry dog that needs to go outside, sorry again kids, for laundry that was not done. I couldn't stop reading.
I read this for an ARC and I'm so pleased that I did. This is definitely a book that I will be reading a second, possibly third and fourth time. With the theme of the story, you know that the authors did their research. The symbolism in the story drew me in more.
I'm picking my words very carefully as I don't wish to include any spoilery goodness in this, so I'll just say that the idea drew me in, as did the characters and their great chemistry. I give this book a 5, because it deserves it.
I read this for an ARC and I'm so pleased that I did. This is definitely a book that I will be reading a second, possibly third and fourth time. With the theme of the story, you know that the authors did their research. The symbolism in the story drew me in more.
I'm picking my words very carefully as I don't wish to include any spoilery goodness in this, so I'll just say that the idea drew me in, as did the characters and their great chemistry. I give this book a 5, because it deserves it.
September 14, 2013
I love K's writing, so I had a feeling I would enjoy this book (even though I'd never read anything by A), and I wasn't disappointed. As the book develops, even though you can see where it is going, it never fails to be captivating. The characters were interesting and relatable, with pretty accurate late teen voices, and the mythology was really neat. Some of it is traditional and some was invented for the story, but it was so well researched that the fictional parts were not noticeable among the actual myths. It's a quick, fun read!
Also, now I see crows everywhere. So thanks a lot for that, ladies.
Also, now I see crows everywhere. So thanks a lot for that, ladies.
September 13, 2013
There are times that you are just interested in a book before it gets published. The title dragged me in almost from the very beginning. During the summer, I have read American Gods by Neil Gaiman and I enjoyed immensely the worldwide Gods mythology .
So, the days were passing by and I got more and more excited. Then it was in my hands. I started reading it yesterday and I finished it in one sitting. I can say that I am impressed for several reasons.
Read more here: http://cleopatracomnenos.blogspot.gr/...
So, the days were passing by and I got more and more excited. Then it was in my hands. I started reading it yesterday and I finished it in one sitting. I can say that I am impressed for several reasons.
Read more here: http://cleopatracomnenos.blogspot.gr/...
September 25, 2013
I suck at reviews. I loved this book! Kept me guessing all the way to the end.
September 25, 2013
yeyyyy...it would have sequels :D
cant wait..Im soooo giddy with excitement ... <3
long time not read this kind of genre bcos I got bored, but I think I can handle this one...huhu
cant wait..Im soooo giddy with excitement ... <3
long time not read this kind of genre bcos I got bored, but I think I can handle this one...huhu
May 2, 2014
To begin this review, I have to say that I have known Angel Lawson for a long time--going on six or seven years now, I guess though it seems impossible that it could be that long--and I've been a fan of her writing and of Kira Gold's writing too, for that long.
Angel writes great plot. And I mean freaking fantastic plot. I wish I had her plotting skills. And in Odin's Murder, they truly shine. The book moves along at a wonderful, brisk pace, never leaving us hanging or guessing what's going to come next for too long, which is something I really appreciate. I guessed the "big secret" pretty early on, but I'm not sure we weren't supposed to because it truly didn't take away at all from the rest of the book or even the reveal at the end. Just the characters' reaction to it was priceless and you spent most of the book anticipating the fireworks that would happen when they found out.
Now, Kira's a great writer. Her vivid imagery and word choice is hands down one of the best I have read. Her words paint a picture in your head and grab your heart and your soul and don't let it go.
Now this isn't to say that Angel can't write worth a damn or Kira's horrible at plotting, but together, they make a flawlessly complete team that turned out a novel that I enjoyed from the first page to the last.
Paranormal is a genre that it's hard to bring something new to these days, but I felt the mythological and historical pieces they used to augment the plot were definitely unique and interesting. I was only a little disappointed that Thor didn't show up :)
As characters go, Memory was a strong female character that I especially enjoyed reading. She was intelligent and wryly funny and had a backbone and self-confidence that just didn't quit. It was so nice to read a NA where the female lead wasn't constantly going around trying to be "under the radar" and not draw attention to herself. Memory knew she wasn't a god damned normal girl and she demanded to be treated as such. And that was such a wonderful breath of fresh air.
Memory also had such great chemistry with Ethan--and I loved the risks the authors took with his character. In less sensitive hands, his background might have not worked as well as it did, but I rooted for him from the very beginning of the novel.
The only thing I can really add to this review, the only slight disappointment, is the clear setup for the sequel at the end. I like that there are consequences for what some of the characters do, but the consequences felt maybe a tad harsh and maybe slightly lesser ones wouldn't have set up so obviously for the sequel. But otherwise, an absolutely fabulous read that I positively devoured.
Angel writes great plot. And I mean freaking fantastic plot. I wish I had her plotting skills. And in Odin's Murder, they truly shine. The book moves along at a wonderful, brisk pace, never leaving us hanging or guessing what's going to come next for too long, which is something I really appreciate. I guessed the "big secret" pretty early on, but I'm not sure we weren't supposed to because it truly didn't take away at all from the rest of the book or even the reveal at the end. Just the characters' reaction to it was priceless and you spent most of the book anticipating the fireworks that would happen when they found out.
Now, Kira's a great writer. Her vivid imagery and word choice is hands down one of the best I have read. Her words paint a picture in your head and grab your heart and your soul and don't let it go.
Now this isn't to say that Angel can't write worth a damn or Kira's horrible at plotting, but together, they make a flawlessly complete team that turned out a novel that I enjoyed from the first page to the last.
Paranormal is a genre that it's hard to bring something new to these days, but I felt the mythological and historical pieces they used to augment the plot were definitely unique and interesting. I was only a little disappointed that Thor didn't show up :)
As characters go, Memory was a strong female character that I especially enjoyed reading. She was intelligent and wryly funny and had a backbone and self-confidence that just didn't quit. It was so nice to read a NA where the female lead wasn't constantly going around trying to be "under the radar" and not draw attention to herself. Memory knew she wasn't a god damned normal girl and she demanded to be treated as such. And that was such a wonderful breath of fresh air.
Memory also had such great chemistry with Ethan--and I loved the risks the authors took with his character. In less sensitive hands, his background might have not worked as well as it did, but I rooted for him from the very beginning of the novel.
The only thing I can really add to this review, the only slight disappointment, is the clear setup for the sequel at the end. I like that there are consequences for what some of the characters do, but the consequences felt maybe a tad harsh and maybe slightly lesser ones wouldn't have set up so obviously for the sequel. But otherwise, an absolutely fabulous read that I positively devoured.
February 7, 2014
3.5 Stars
Odin's Murder was just what I expected! It was a wonderful read filled with romance, suspense and interesting history. I loved the crow aspect of the story and was enthralled with the facts and myths surrounding them.
The story revolves around Memory and Ethan and their attraction to each other. Ethan is a bad boy who is sent to camp in order to avoid prison. Memory is just at camp to appease her twin brother, Julian. At first they are not receptive of each other but as the story progresses they can't deny what is developing between them.
As they all research the history of the crows, Julian, Memory, Ethan and Amy come to realize that there is a connection between them. For some reason they are all haunted by the animal they are researching. And as one by one they start to disappear it is up to Ethan and Memory to uncover the truth. One that will change their lives forever.
Angel Lawson and Kira Gold weave a wonderful story in Odin's Murder. I enjoyed reading about the crows and seeing how the story progressed. My only complaint was that Memory's character was not one I connected with. When I reached the end of the book there wasn't anything that made her stand out. The rest of the characters I did enjoy.
I would encourage you to pick this up and give it a try!
HAPPY READING!
Odin's Murder was just what I expected! It was a wonderful read filled with romance, suspense and interesting history. I loved the crow aspect of the story and was enthralled with the facts and myths surrounding them.
The story revolves around Memory and Ethan and their attraction to each other. Ethan is a bad boy who is sent to camp in order to avoid prison. Memory is just at camp to appease her twin brother, Julian. At first they are not receptive of each other but as the story progresses they can't deny what is developing between them.
As they all research the history of the crows, Julian, Memory, Ethan and Amy come to realize that there is a connection between them. For some reason they are all haunted by the animal they are researching. And as one by one they start to disappear it is up to Ethan and Memory to uncover the truth. One that will change their lives forever.
Angel Lawson and Kira Gold weave a wonderful story in Odin's Murder. I enjoyed reading about the crows and seeing how the story progressed. My only complaint was that Memory's character was not one I connected with. When I reached the end of the book there wasn't anything that made her stand out. The rest of the characters I did enjoy.
I would encourage you to pick this up and give it a try!
HAPPY READING!
October 20, 2015
Odin: Norse Mythology - the ruler of the Aesir and god of war, poetry, knowledge, and wisdom; Wotan: the chief god.
Murder: to kill by an act constituting murder or a group or flock of crows.
I got this off Amazon as a Freebie and I am currently working through my list of freebies. I wasn't sure to begin with as I thought that I wasn't in the right age group for this but pleasantly enough I wasn't. In some cases as this was a freebie I thought that it would be pants but it was really good. I always look for something new and different.
There are a lot of books out on Greek Mythology so it was refreshing to get a take on the Norse Mythology.
Ethan has been accepted into a special programm for the summer for gifted students. 5 of them altogether: Sonja, Faye, Memory, Julian and Ethan. They get the topic on crows and strange things start to happen as well as people from their group start to go missing. The plot of this story has a lot of depth and the author has done her research the one thing that annoyed me though was that at the beginning she stated that who's POV it was but 2 chapters in it stopped so I wasn't entirely sure who I was with either Ethan or Memory.
Apart from that the book gets 4 Crows.
Murder: to kill by an act constituting murder or a group or flock of crows.
I got this off Amazon as a Freebie and I am currently working through my list of freebies. I wasn't sure to begin with as I thought that I wasn't in the right age group for this but pleasantly enough I wasn't. In some cases as this was a freebie I thought that it would be pants but it was really good. I always look for something new and different.
There are a lot of books out on Greek Mythology so it was refreshing to get a take on the Norse Mythology.
Ethan has been accepted into a special programm for the summer for gifted students. 5 of them altogether: Sonja, Faye, Memory, Julian and Ethan. They get the topic on crows and strange things start to happen as well as people from their group start to go missing. The plot of this story has a lot of depth and the author has done her research the one thing that annoyed me though was that at the beginning she stated that who's POV it was but 2 chapters in it stopped so I wasn't entirely sure who I was with either Ethan or Memory.
Apart from that the book gets 4 Crows.
October 7, 2013
This was one amazing read. I had no idea what I was getting into, since I did not read any reviews nor the blurb before jumping head first. And wow, what an great read.
It's a collaboration between two very talented writers and if the tittle does not lie, I cannot wait for book 2.
This is the story of four (five?) very different individuals that happen to collide for a summer at a special College Scholastic Honors program for exceptional students. They all are together in class and each one brings their own skillset for a project that their professor assigns to them as a group. What happens after that is a rollercoaster of suspense, mystery, mythology and romance that will have you turning pages and forgetting all about your real life outside this book. Its very well written, very smartly done and extremely engaging. The plot is very well developed and every character well done. You will feel like you are one of the flock and experience with intensity what is happening to them.
Excellent 1st collaboration and I hope one of many more to come. 5 stars.
It's a collaboration between two very talented writers and if the tittle does not lie, I cannot wait for book 2.
This is the story of four (five?) very different individuals that happen to collide for a summer at a special College Scholastic Honors program for exceptional students. They all are together in class and each one brings their own skillset for a project that their professor assigns to them as a group. What happens after that is a rollercoaster of suspense, mystery, mythology and romance that will have you turning pages and forgetting all about your real life outside this book. Its very well written, very smartly done and extremely engaging. The plot is very well developed and every character well done. You will feel like you are one of the flock and experience with intensity what is happening to them.
Excellent 1st collaboration and I hope one of many more to come. 5 stars.
October 5, 2013
You can tell Ethan and Memory have this sexual tension between them. Both are too stubborn and don't know how to get past their rude comments to each other.
Ethan is warned by Julian that Memory is more trouble than he wants. He tries to listen to him and uses Danielle as a distraction.
Memory gets secretly jealous of the close relationship that Ethan builds with Danielle.
Julian tries to get Ethan to distract Memory from trouble/a Teachers Aide she's been getting involved with. Julian wants her to focus on what's important at school.
Julian and Memory are twins and have a special connection. They also learn they have an ancient connection to Faye, Sophia and Ethan.
This Ancient connecting will bring near death and pain to their lives, but they will grow closer through their experiences together.
I have enjoyed this collaboration between Angel and Kira.
I look forward to reading Kira's debut book coming out this spring and love being apart of Team Angel.
Ethan is warned by Julian that Memory is more trouble than he wants. He tries to listen to him and uses Danielle as a distraction.
Memory gets secretly jealous of the close relationship that Ethan builds with Danielle.
Julian tries to get Ethan to distract Memory from trouble/a Teachers Aide she's been getting involved with. Julian wants her to focus on what's important at school.
Julian and Memory are twins and have a special connection. They also learn they have an ancient connection to Faye, Sophia and Ethan.
This Ancient connecting will bring near death and pain to their lives, but they will grow closer through their experiences together.
I have enjoyed this collaboration between Angel and Kira.
I look forward to reading Kira's debut book coming out this spring and love being apart of Team Angel.
January 27, 2016
I can't believe the reviews for this on Amazon are all 4 or 5 stars. It was terrible! I don't like the mythology angle, so that may be part of the problem. One reviewer thought the characters were mature and smart. I thought they were immature and stupid.
I can't see where this book had anything to offer that I was interested in. I kept reading, hoping for improvement, but it didn't come. By then, I was far enough into it that I wanted to finish, so I could write an honest review.
Don't bother!
I can't see where this book had anything to offer that I was interested in. I kept reading, hoping for improvement, but it didn't come. By then, I was far enough into it that I wanted to finish, so I could write an honest review.
Don't bother!
February 6, 2014
I. Loved. It.
The first chapter threw me a little, and had my thinking it wasn't the book I'd expected. Then as I continued, I was right... And wrong. It was better.
Memory. Julien. Ethan. Faye. Each of them well-rounded. Real - in a "I want to be friends with these guys" kind of way. I think, if I'm going to be completely honest, that I actually enjoyed Faye the best.
Read it. You won't be sorry.
The first chapter threw me a little, and had my thinking it wasn't the book I'd expected. Then as I continued, I was right... And wrong. It was better.
Memory. Julien. Ethan. Faye. Each of them well-rounded. Real - in a "I want to be friends with these guys" kind of way. I think, if I'm going to be completely honest, that I actually enjoyed Faye the best.
Read it. You won't be sorry.
October 1, 2013
I loved this story, the character development was beautiful. I didn't want it to every end and I'm hoping there is more to this! I'm so excited to see what may come next. Sorry my brain is still in shock mode from reading such a beautiful amazing story about friendship, love, and some mystery!
December 1, 2013
Mythology, smarty pantses, honesty, and some sick prose. What more could a girl ask for?
Worth every second, but maybe a. 4.5.
Worth every second, but maybe a. 4.5.
September 29, 2013
I enjoyed this, but I like to be surprised, and the plot is telegraphed very early on, which is a big negative for me, so minus one star.
May 29, 2015
More, please.
December 8, 2013
I have never read a more imaginative story about Odin than this one! Truly he is my least favorite Norse god. When I got this book I pretty much expected the same old Norse immortal arse but boy was I wrong! Never have I been happier to be wrong.
There is mystery and suspense entwined firmly around epic romance in this coming of age tale. It follows the common fantasy genre maxim that though they know that they are very different from other kids their age they have no clue about the extent of their powers, that there are others like them, or how truly unique and special they are or that they even have a Destiny.
The action and adventure swirls nicely with the chills and thrills that permeate the discoveries these 5 kids find along the way as they try to unravel the significance of the events surrounding them. Dark comedy paired with biting wit kept me laughing and wondering just what would happen next in this sinister landscape where nothing and no one is who or what they seem. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of urban fantasy or modern mythological tales. Or any modern pagan who wants a quick laugh at a God's expense ;) Truly I wish there were a series this book belonged to or even just a seqel to this book as I hate saying good bye to these characters and their world.
***this book is suitable for adult readers
There is mystery and suspense entwined firmly around epic romance in this coming of age tale. It follows the common fantasy genre maxim that though they know that they are very different from other kids their age they have no clue about the extent of their powers, that there are others like them, or how truly unique and special they are or that they even have a Destiny.
The action and adventure swirls nicely with the chills and thrills that permeate the discoveries these 5 kids find along the way as they try to unravel the significance of the events surrounding them. Dark comedy paired with biting wit kept me laughing and wondering just what would happen next in this sinister landscape where nothing and no one is who or what they seem. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of urban fantasy or modern mythological tales. Or any modern pagan who wants a quick laugh at a God's expense ;) Truly I wish there were a series this book belonged to or even just a seqel to this book as I hate saying good bye to these characters and their world.
***this book is suitable for adult readers
December 7, 2013
Odin's murder is sort of a paranormal/magic/mythology mashup involving Norse legends. I loved the crow/raven references, the quirky characters each with their own 'gift' and the slightly dark and gritty atmosphere of the book. I also enjoyed the fact the teenagers sounded and acted like real teenagers. Officially the book is "new adult" - I actually thought it would have worked better as a straight young adult minus the (unprotected!!) sex scene which seemed unnecessary (and dare I say it... reminded me of reading a fic ).
There are times the chapter changes felt really choppy and sometimes it would take me a page or 2 to work out whose POV - I struggled quite a bit with the fact both POV were in first person. Also the plot is fairly easy to work out early on - the writing is paced well though - the lead up to the grand reveal at the end especially. Also I should award a bonus point for no love triangle (my pet YA hate)!
All in all, it's an enjoyable read and those readers who like a slap of paranormal with their YA will particularly enjoy the Norse mythology angle.
There are times the chapter changes felt really choppy and sometimes it would take me a page or 2 to work out whose POV - I struggled quite a bit with the fact both POV were in first person. Also the plot is fairly easy to work out early on - the writing is paced well though - the lead up to the grand reveal at the end especially. Also I should award a bonus point for no love triangle (my pet YA hate)!
All in all, it's an enjoyable read and those readers who like a slap of paranormal with their YA will particularly enjoy the Norse mythology angle.
April 7, 2015
Let me start out by saying that had I not loved Kira A. Gold's fanfiction when I was 19 I would not have gone past the first 5 chapters of this book. Main reason why is that my tastes have changes significantly since then and, plainly put, the beginning of this book make me question my 19-year old self's choices in life. I found the writing to be pretty low-grade YA and the characters' arc did not strike me as anything to write home about. I know that going into this kind of book requires some suspension of disbelief, but still the book walks a fine line. The characters were not complex, but as I progressed, I found a reason to continue the book. The concept of the book is an intriguing one: dark Norse mythology explored by gifted teens, each with their own secrets and talents. Those parts were done fairly well and also the story was fast paced. Maybe it was just me, but didn't the writing get a bit better towards the second half of the book? Anyway, I think that this is a great book for a newbie/regular-romance reader, but not for a diverse, looking-for-challenges reader. Let me be clear: this is not a bad book, just one that's not for me.
October 7, 2013
This book was just amazingly irritating; I didn't like anything or anyone in it. I tried to slog through, but the 45 pages I managed were like an adjective bomb just exploded all over the place for no reason other than to fill pages with unnecessary descriptive words. Want an example?
Sorry, but that just sounds stupid and doesn't really make sense. The book is full of this kinda stuff.
I also didn't buy that these people were in college, they seemed more like high school kids to me. Ethan beats the shit out of another guy for a blowjob hand motion at a girl he doesn't know? Sorry, but that's psychotic. I love a bad boy just as much as the next girl but I just thought Ethan was a douche. Maybe it just wasn't for me, it seems many other people really liked this book.
"Her jaw is set and her hands are balled, that long, black ponytail trembling like the sash on a cocked spear"
Sorry, but that just sounds stupid and doesn't really make sense. The book is full of this kinda stuff.
I also didn't buy that these people were in college, they seemed more like high school kids to me. Ethan beats the shit out of another guy for a blowjob hand motion at a girl he doesn't know? Sorry, but that's psychotic. I love a bad boy just as much as the next girl but I just thought Ethan was a douche. Maybe it just wasn't for me, it seems many other people really liked this book.
November 10, 2013
4 STARS...Do you ever find yourself drawn to an author because they know how to bring your imagination to life? Angel Lawson knows just how to get me involved into a character and immersed in a story. Without spoiling any moments, I must express that this is a twisty mystery. The more we learn about the characters, the more we learn about the folk-lore and then the answers begin to form. I walked in Ethan's heavy footsteps and shuffled in Memory's wedges and I am in awe of how Kira and Angel have woven Norse lore into reality and back again.
I would've given a bit more star but the editing wasn't perfect in the first half of the book. I also would have been more connected if I had encountered a bit more depth into their feelings (past the primal needs). Overall, the story was fun and original, the characters ran true throughout, and the mysteries and actions kept my nose in the pages until I had the answers to it all.
I would've given a bit more star but the editing wasn't perfect in the first half of the book. I also would have been more connected if I had encountered a bit more depth into their feelings (past the primal needs). Overall, the story was fun and original, the characters ran true throughout, and the mysteries and actions kept my nose in the pages until I had the answers to it all.
December 8, 2013
Ethan Tyrell is a young man who has been in and out of jail most of his life. He’s recently arrived at a Scholastic Honor’s Program, where he feels out of place – especially among his study group. He fingers himself working with twins Julian and Memory as well as Faye. As the group continues to work together, they learn secrets about themselves and their school.
I was a little reluctant to get into this book once I saw that the main characters were teenagers, but I am glad I picked it up anyway. This book gets off to a slightly slow start but it’s definitely worth the read. The story is very unique and well researched. The characters are real and easy to relate to. Good luck putting it down once things really get going. I highly recommend this and will be seeking out other books by this author.
I was a little reluctant to get into this book once I saw that the main characters were teenagers, but I am glad I picked it up anyway. This book gets off to a slightly slow start but it’s definitely worth the read. The story is very unique and well researched. The characters are real and easy to relate to. Good luck putting it down once things really get going. I highly recommend this and will be seeking out other books by this author.
October 28, 2013
I knew I'd be in for something worth reading with these two talented authors, but the summary of this novel gave away absolutely nothing. Expectations high but without a clue as to what I'd get, I dug in.
There was no disappointment here.
I loved the combination of human, supernatural, and myth. The amount of research and planning that went into the creation of this story must have been extensive (unless both these lovely ladies have something in common with their characters!). It's hard to say much more in a review without giving away details I'd much rather leave as the surprise they were for me.
I really enjoyed this, and even before I reached the end I was thinking to myself, "I can't wait to tell ____ to read this!" Definitely worth the download and the time =)
There was no disappointment here.
I loved the combination of human, supernatural, and myth. The amount of research and planning that went into the creation of this story must have been extensive (unless both these lovely ladies have something in common with their characters!). It's hard to say much more in a review without giving away details I'd much rather leave as the surprise they were for me.
I really enjoyed this, and even before I reached the end I was thinking to myself, "I can't wait to tell ____ to read this!" Definitely worth the download and the time =)
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