First Light (Project Five Fifteen #1)

Dec 04, 2012 Maya rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review, ya

I LOVE this book! The cover and sypnosis really capture my attention and I'm happy to say that First Light exceeded my expectations by a long way. You know those books that have you actually hyperventilating at the end because you so don't want to finish it? This is one of them.

A lot of people think self-published books aren't as good a traditionally published ones, and I'll admit that I sometimes have this prejudice as well. This book really proves that self-published novels can be equally as g...more

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Jul 13, 2012 Amanda rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, recieved, rated-and-reviewed, first-reads-read, to-re-read

A First-reads, Goodreads Giveaway Book

This book, for lack of a better comparison, is like Twilight, but punched in the face and roundhouse kicked to the gut by Jason Bourne himself.

Ronnie (Veronica) Rose just lost her father and is trying to pull her life back together after his death. When one of the local 'delinquents' shows up to mourn her father's death, she wants to know how and why they knew each other. As Ronnie gets to know these strange boys, led by Kalen, the boy from the funeral, she...more

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Oct 26, 2012 Sian rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favourites, romance

I thought this book was amazing. I was told to read this by my librarian at my school because she wanted to know what I thought. I LOVED it, and I can't wait for the second one to come out in November!!

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Jan 29, 2013 Becky {Somewhere Between The Pages} rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, 5-stars, review, indie-fic, arc-or-review-copy, realistic-fiction

*A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

It's not often that a blurb will capture my interest so instantly, but when I read the synopsis for First Light, I was more than intrigued. I'm very much into contemporary novels at the moment, though I haven't read many with mystery/thriller themes, so I was more than willing to give this book a go. How happy I am that I did. I adored this book. I spent the best part of two evenings totally absorbed in the romance-filled plot,...more *A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

It's not often that a blurb will capture my interest so instantly, but when I read the synopsis for First Light, I was more than intrigued. I'm very much into contemporary novels at the moment, though I haven't read many with mystery/thriller themes, so I was more than willing to give this book a go. How happy I am that I did. I adored this book. I spent the best part of two evenings totally absorbed in the romance-filled plot, connecting with the characters in a way I didn't expect. Is this book perfect? No, but it's one of the best I've read in quite some time.

Both Ronnie and Kalen captured my heart but for very different reasons. Ronnie, of course, has just lost her father and that hit me hard. I couldn't imagine life without my dad so it broke my heart that seventeen-year-old Ronnie had to deal with her father's death - as well as the fact that her mother walked out when she was only three years old. Ronnie herself is a little irritating at times, but overall she's a great character. She seems to overthink things and she's very responsible most of the time, but she has just the right amount of sass and wit to make her interesting. Her relationship with Kalen wasn't perfect, and it wasn't written really well, but I loved it. I thought they made for a fascinating couple and I can't wait to see what happens after the events of the end of this book.

Kalen was, for the most part, the complete opposite of Ronnie. He did what he needed to do to get what he wanted and, being a teenage assassin, he was quite ruthless at times. Obviously my bad-boy complex kicked into fifth gear with his introduction, but I don't even care. I thought he was a great character and I was completely engrossed in his story. The writing flicks into the past a few times throughout the course of this novel, and during those times we get to see what it was like growing up as Kalen Smith. I'd love to know more about his role in Project Five Fifteen, but for now, I'm content with what I've been given. I do hope Summers gives us even more backstory in the next installment, though.

The rest of the characters were also written really well. I'd love to know more about Kalen's friends - Laith intrigued me in particular - and I hope they're featured just as heavily in the next book. Of course, given the ending of First Light, that is questionable, but here's hoping.

The action in this novel didn't really come into play until pretty far in - towards the end, actually. I was satisfied enough, but I think that the book could really have used some more exciting scenes. Don't get me wrong, there were a few throughout the course of the novel, but a lot of the time the book just seemed to drift, focused more on the romance side of things. I'm not complaining, but I hope As You Were employs more action-packed scenes. For the most part, First Light seems to be a novel based on choice - heart or head? - and the consequences of those choices.

The ending was absolutely perfect, in my opinion. Summers wrote it in a way that doesn't leave you screaming and cursing at a massive cliffhanger, but it does leave things in a way that makes you crave more while still holding a note of finality. It leads perfectly into another novel and I can't wait to see where Summers takes our characters next. I highly, highly recommend you pick up this novel.

For more reviews, check out my blog at Somewhere Between The Pages.(less)

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May 13, 2013 Michelle novelsontherun rated it 3 of 5 stars

BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 6th MAY 2013 :

RATING: 3.5 KALEN & ACE STARS

Veronica is attending her father’s funeral and she sees a boy standing to the side watching with a sad look on his face, his name is Kalen.

Kalen has many secrets, and many skeletons in his closet. His closet is rather stuffed full. Kalen is a child/teenage assassin.

I liked the idea of this story. I was torn when reading between really liking where Samantha took me....and being teased too much with Kalen and Ronnie’s relati...more

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May 07, 2013 Flame rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review is also published on Always a Booklover.

I rather enjoyed First Light. It was a relatively sweet YA romance with just a little bit of action packed in. The characters were rather interesting and real, and the pace of the book of the good. While I didn’t feel that the storyline was to die for, it was a pretty good introduction to this series.

Veronica, or Ronnie, as she likes to be called, is an independent girl. Yet, there’s just something about her that is vulnerable. From the start,...more This review is also published on Always a Booklover.

I rather enjoyed First Light. It was a relatively sweet YA romance with just a little bit of action packed in. The characters were rather interesting and real, and the pace of the book of the good. While I didn’t feel that the storyline was to die for, it was a pretty good introduction to this series.

Veronica, or Ronnie, as she likes to be called, is an independent girl. Yet, there’s just something about her that is vulnerable. From the start, I liked Ronnie. She was a rather witty character, and while not the most interesting of characters, she was real and I could relate to her. While there are parts of her I didn’t really like, generally she was a good female protagonist. Her character development was rather good and I could see her maturing as the book progressed.

Kalen on the other hand, was amazing. Mysterious, hot, dangerous. How could a girl not be instantly drawn to him? But I think what’s best was how he loved Ronnie. From everything he did, it just showed he cared. And that just made me smile. Because it showed even someone so strong can fall prey to the mighty power of love.

The side characters were also rather nice to read about. I liked that there weren’t too many characters to keep up with and that they weren’t neglected as the story progressed. We did see some bits of their character development and I look forward to reading much more about the boys. And for some reason, Laith. I just want to know more about him, there’s just something interesting about him.

One thing I would have liked was to see more of Kalen's past. Those teasers simply aren't enough! He is such an interesting character to read about, someone so mysterious that I simply want to learn more about him. You know, just try and figure him out.

I did enjoy the ending. I am curious as to how Ronnie and Kalen’s relationship will progress, especially now that she has realized how much she loves him. And her decision at the end is just going to make for a more interesting story in the second book, As You Were. This is a relatively easy read and a rather enjoyable one too.

3.5 stars.

Disclaimer: I was provided with a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. All views stated here are mine. (less)

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May 01, 2013 Farrah rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

My Rating: 4.5/5

Definitely a thrilling book! First Light had me on the edge on my seat with thrills, romance, and danger galore.

I don't read very many YA romantic thrillers, so this was a new experience for me. But, I'm so glad I decided to give it a try, because this book was excellent.

Ronnie has not had the easiest last few months when the book starts off, and it doesn't get much easier. Her father had died, her older sister is an immature brat, and her only friend is drifting away. On top of...more My Rating: 4.5/5

Definitely a thrilling book! First Light had me on the edge on my seat with thrills, romance, and danger galore.

I don't read very many YA romantic thrillers, so this was a new experience for me. But, I'm so glad I decided to give it a try, because this book was excellent.

Ronnie has not had the easiest last few months when the book starts off, and it doesn't get much easier. Her father had died, her older sister is an immature brat, and her only friend is drifting away. On top of that, she ends up falling in love with a boy who is on the run for his life and is sucked into the world of danger. But, she handles all of that and doesn't let it get her down. One thing that really made me like her was that, when Kalen tries to push her away so that she won't get hurt, she doesn't sit and mope. Yes, she's sad about it, but she moves on with her life and continues to thrive. The only issue I have with her is a small one. I didn't understand why she became so immersed in, not only Kalen's life, but also with the other boys with him who are on the run. That seemed to happen to fast for me to truly believe that she formed an emotional attachment to them all. But, otherwise, I really liked her.

Kalen was a different hero. He has done some terrible things, though not through any fault of his own. His past is horrifying. And, yet, he still manages to be an essentially good guy. All the poor guy wants is to be able to have a normal life, which isn't very likely with him being on the run. With all the bad in his life, he clung on to Ronnie as his only bit of light. That in itself is totally understandable. After everything he's been through, it was believable for him to hold onto his first hint of good. I was a little worried that this would turn into a creepy, obsessive kind of thing, though. But, fortunately, that didn't happen. While he holds her on a pedestal, he respects her space and would respect her demand to leave her alone if that happened (though, worry not, it doesn't). It was more that he just wanted to be near her, which was so sweet. And he did push her away several times for her safety. But, this isn't just a dumb, self-sacrifice, brooding excuse. She would genuinely be in mortal danger if she got too close to him. Kalen was awesome, so sweet and caring, despite everything he's gone through. I adored him.

The romance in this book was very sweet. Both Ronnie and Kalen were very mature, despite their youth because of their circumstances. And that allowed their love to be believably devoted and deep. They were such a lovely couple.

The plot was okay. But, it dragged a little in the middle. I felt like there were some parts during that time that were superfluous and didn't serve to further the plot. Overall, though, I was kept interested the whole time. The thrills had me on the edge of my seat. And the ending left me anxious to find out what happens next.

*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review(less)

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Apr 29, 2013 Hayley G rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: e-arcs

(Please note: This is a joint review of Book 1 & 2 in the Project Five Fifteen series)
Thrilling YA series!

The romance was perfect, definitely satisfied the huge romantic in me! I loved the way things developed between Kalen and Ronnie in First Light, and was thrilled to see them together in As You Were. Kalen is definitely book boyfriend material. He's gorgeous and mysterious, all he really wants to do is keep Ronnie safe, even if that means he has to let her go.

Ronnie is a great heroine, sh...more

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Nov 09, 2012 Splash Of Our Worlds *Yiota* rated it 5 of 5 stars

Reviewed by Nina

I couldn't really say no to a plot like this. Killers and secret governments. I haven't read something like that since Alex Rider. Not that they are the same, but still the prospect of reading something conspirasy-like, and have an opportunity to leave the paranormal world just a little bit, was acceptable.

The story is well written. It's simple and understanding. The author chooses the first person and Ronnie's point of view, which is good, because that makes you understand Ronni...more

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Nov 07, 2012 Shreya (CCReviews) rated it 3 of 5 stars

*A copy was provided for review purposes*

I really like First Light because it enraptured me with its intense plot-line from the beginning pages till the end. At first sight, to tell you the truth, I did not think I would enjoy this book half as much as I actually did, number one, because I just don't like overly emotional books, and number two, the summary made the book sound like nothing I've ever read before. I must say, it was a new and interesting experience. There were government conspiraci...more *A copy was provided for review purposes*

I really like First Light because it enraptured me with its intense plot-line from the beginning pages till the end. At first sight, to tell you the truth, I did not think I would enjoy this book half as much as I actually did, number one, because I just don't like overly emotional books, and number two, the summary made the book sound like nothing I've ever read before. I must say, it was a new and interesting experience. There were government conspiracies involved as well as secret rendezvouses. The whole government kidnapping children and then turning them into killer assassins who will do their bidding concept was very Bond material, and I LOVED it. The plot was thick and unique, the characters were likable, and the book flowed really well as a whole. I have to be honest with you, I did finish this in two sittings.

Ronnie was a very sympathetic character who I grew accustomed to over a couple of chapters. The fact that her father died and how, from there onward, her whole life fell apart to secrets and lies is very tough to go through for a teenage girl, and is what got to me the most. She was a bit irritating at times, but like I usually say, no one is perfect, otherwise I'd hate them. Flaws are somber but beautiful things, because they tear apart yet strengthen a character's soul like they did to Ronnie. My most favorite aspect of Ronnie is that she tended to think things through a lot and was very responsible when it came to making important decisions. This is really underrated because there are some heroines in other books who just piss me off because of their dumb decision-making skills. Ronnie also had enough sass and wit in her to make her interesting and not totally boring to read about.

I really liked how the lead male role in this book, Kalen, was so starkly different from Ronnie. This is because he was a great contrast to her character and being together highlighted both of their best and worst qualities. Kalen was a very self-deprecating character to me. I feel like he's always thinking in his mind about his kills and what he does for a living in life and how he should just rot in hell, of course, the guilt tearing up at him is completely normal. As a result of being captured and turned into a deadly assassin, he becomes very ruthless, unforgiving, and secluded from the world. I also liked how the author went into some of Kalen's backstory so we knew how he was raised and grew up as a child. Of course, I can't forget to mention the numerous amount of smoldering-smoking-hot-bad-boy vibes he always keeps on throwing out which make me want to run to the nearest water fountain. I really, really, liked his point of view in the book and I hope Summer's gives us more of him in the books to come.

The rest of the characters were also very humorous and interesting to read about. Especially Kalen's group of assassin friends. Maybe we'll get a little snippet from each of their point of views in the next book, who knows, but *fingers crossed*. Another thing I'd like to see more of is Ronnie's relationship with Kalen growing. It wasn't great, perfect, or a happy ending, but that's because it's a series, and this author likes to keep us waiting. Together they for an......intriguing couple. Really..really...intriguing, and I'll just leave it at that, ha ha. And I didn't mention this before, but do not worry guys, with a bunch of assassin's that work for the government running around, how can this book not deliver some of that action that makes our hearts beat and blood pump for more? Although it comes in the end, Summer's makes sure to deliver it.

Overall, a very interesting, climactic, romantic read which can and should definitely be picked up by those of who need a book desperately in hand. The ending was NOT a cliff-hanger, thank god, so I think the wait for the next book won't be too bad. But for now, I really can't wait to see what Summer's has stored for us in her next book in her series, Project Five Fifteen. (less)

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Nov 07, 2012 Ellen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, blog-tours

Ronnie Rose is 17 years old, and even though her sister Rachel is 9 years older than her, she has always had to be the adult in the family. Her father has just died after an extended illness. Ronnie had taken time off from school to take care of him. While at the funeral she sees a mysterious boys from around town there, staring at her from across the way. She thinks this is odd, but then when she looks back again, he is gone. When Ronnie was 14 years old, she was attacked while walking home one...more Ronnie Rose is 17 years old, and even though her sister Rachel is 9 years older than her, she has always had to be the adult in the family. Her father has just died after an extended illness. Ronnie had taken time off from school to take care of him. While at the funeral she sees a mysterious boys from around town there, staring at her from across the way. She thinks this is odd, but then when she looks back again, he is gone. When Ronnie was 14 years old, she was attacked while walking home one evening on the beach. A stranger saved her. Ever since the attack, her coping mechanism has been to daydream about him, though she never really saw his face. Ronnie finds herself in a local cafe after her father's death, doing just that. She realizes that she has forgotten her wallet and the waitress starts to make a big deal about her not paying, when once again, this mysterious boy pops up, paying her tab.

She later manages to find him, and tries to pay him back, but he's not interested in her money. She agrees to meet him the next day, and though not in either of their best interest, becomes friends, and then much more with Kalen. Kalen lives with his four other "friends," who are more like brothers to them. They all share a secret, dark, and dangerous past, a past which can not only destroy them, but could destroy Ronnie also. The story begins to unravel about Kalen's mysterious past when he finally opens up a little and shares it with Ronnie. A series of treacherous, life-threatening events occur, and Ronnie must choose between the boy she has come to love, and what is left of her family, but can she do this before it's too late to save anyone?

I found First Light to be a very interesting and enjoyable read. The plot is very unique and original, which I really liked, keeping my interest from beginning to end. I enjoyed Ronnie's character. She has been through a great ordeal in her life, and has made some mistakes, but is also mature beyond her years. Kalen is mysterious, dangerous, athletic, and totally hot with the whole bad boy thing going on, as are is four friends, Ace, Nash, Denver, and Laith, who I also liked, with the exception of Laith. I enjoyed the romance between Kalen and Ronnie also. They were attracted to each other from the very beginning, but their relationship was built over time, and also involved some heart-wrenching decisions on both parts. First Light is also action-packed, and filled with mystery, intrigue, conspiracy, and murder. Overall, I really enjoyed this YA romance/thriller. If you are looking for a book that has a different twist, with some romance, conspiracy, and action, then you might want to check this book out. (less)

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Nov 07, 2012 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-must-reads, atomr-book-tours, books-i-own, nov-2012

First Light is one of those books that captures you right from the beginning if you are a sci-fi reader. I love books that have government conspiracy in them. They grab you and keep you guessing the entire time your reading. I kept thinking to myself man the government could be doing this and no one would ever know the difference.

What do you do when you a parent? The grief is all to consuming and for Veronica it is devastating to her because she is left with her sister as her only family.Reelin...more

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Nov 06, 2012 Stephanie Ward rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tour, for-review, owned, will-trade

3.5 Stars

'First Light' is the first book in a young adult thriller romance series that follows the main character, Veronica "Ronnie" Rose as she deals with the death of her father and the gaping hole he left behind. Ronnie meets the mysterious Kalen Smith - a gorgeous guy that has trouble written all over him. Everyone, including Ronnie herself, tells her she should stay far away from Kalen and his friends. Only she doesn't listen - she wants to know more about him. Soon, Ronnie finds herself fa...more

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May 01, 2013 Kirsty Vizard rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: review-copy, couldn-t-put-down, emotional, family-drama, favorites, just-freaking-awesome, romance, tense, ya

This book should come attached with a warning: Readers should not come within 10 paces if they suffer from a weak heart! Not that I did have a heart problem before I read First Light, but after all the heart palpitations I experienced during the story I am sure I do now!! What this meant though was that Samantha Summers had made me care about her characters, so much so that I wanted all (well, most of them!) to be safe - and for me this is what a great storyteller does.
First Light is a story abo...more

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Nov 07, 2012 Arlene rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Arlene by: Blog Tour for WinterHaven

Shelves: read-2012, young-adult

Rating Clarification: 4.5 Stars

First Light by Samantha Summers was nothing like I expected. This book captured my attention from the moment I read the prologue to the time I stumbled on the epilogue two short days later. Breezing through a novel so quickly is quite rare for me as of late, so I can only attribute it to the fact that I was pretty much hooked on this high impact, high energy YA novel. First Light is a story about trust, survival and friendship that feels like a combination of Bourn...more Rating Clarification: 4.5 Stars

First Light by Samantha Summers was nothing like I expected. This book captured my attention from the moment I read the prologue to the time I stumbled on the epilogue two short days later. Breezing through a novel so quickly is quite rare for me as of late, so I can only attribute it to the fact that I was pretty much hooked on this high impact, high energy YA novel. First Light is a story about trust, survival and friendship that feels like a combination of Bourne Identity slash Outsiders. The plot was quite unique, the characters were extremely likeable and the pacing of the book kept me focused on the events as they unfolded.

The story commences in Clanots County, a small town near London where we meet Veronica Rose (Ronnie) on the day she’s burying her father after a long illness. At the funeral, she’s trying her best to keep it together, and as she looks a bit beyond the distance, she sees a mysterious guy at the funeral grieving right along with her. She’s never met him before but she knows from town gossip that he and the crowd he hangs out with is bad news. Ronnie sets out to discover who he truly is and how he knew her father.

Kalen Smith was orphaned at a very young age and adopted when he was four by a mysterious couple. He was then taken to a camp where he spent the next ten years learning new languages, defense techniques… all the skills for becoming a professional assassin. After learning what his fate would be when he reaches his “shelf-life” at the age of sixteen, he and a band of boys in Project Fifteen escaped the Special Requirements Unit in the hopes of surviving another day. They travelled from town to town and across borders, never setting roots in any particular place. Then one day the SRU comes close to capturing Kalen when a civilian takes him in and saves him from being “disposed of."

I was extremely intrigued by this whole concept of government agencies taking children to brainwash and condition them into perfect assassins as the ultimate guise or weapons that targets would never suspect. Probably not farfetched from any true possibility. Extremely interesting to say the least.

I really liked the group of runaway assassins including Ace, Denver, Nash and Laith. They had that “Outsiders” dynamic going on where each filled a specific role. You had the young one, the charismatic one, the responsible one and the elusive member of the group. They were all so different but blended so perfectly as a band of brothers. Caring for them was not difficult for me to accomplish. They have a bond and loyalty for each other that’s easy to admire. The sacrifices they had to make to stay together and keep each other safe really added a whole new layer of depth to this story that made it even more captivating.

I also came to like Ronnie and Kal as a couple. There was that beginning skittishness that I like to read about when the author develops two characters as a couple. What was more refreshing was that Ronnie and Kal’s feelings for each other felt genuine and real. I really enjoyed reading about these two characters and I rooted for them as they battled the odds stacked against them. First Light kept me at a constant state of high interest because the pacing of the novel never slows down. Summers really knows when to execute a twist or high impact event to make this an ongoing adventure with two likeable protags.

Overall, I’m curious where Ronnie and Kal find themselves in the upcoming installment. Summers delivered a unique and gripping story with her crafty plot, setting and perfect pacing that easily hooked me into her adventure. Definitely enjoyed this one!

This review can be found along with my other reviews at WinterHaven Books(less)

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May 25, 2012 Julie(Reading By The Beach) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

As seen on -> http://readingbythebeach.blogspot.com...

Reading the blurb for First Light, I was instantly attracted and eager to start reading. I could sense the excitement, the struggles and the romance from just that tiny amount of words. You know I love those inner, emotional struggles and First Light did not disappoint! In fact, it way exceeded my expectations.

I was drawn to the two main characters in an instantaneous moment. Kalen and Ronnie, two opposites in many, many ways, but with on...more As seen on -> http://readingbythebeach.blogspot.com...

Reading the blurb for First Light, I was instantly attracted and eager to start reading. I could sense the excitement, the struggles and the romance from just that tiny amount of words. You know I love those inner, emotional struggles and First Light did not disappoint! In fact, it way exceeded my expectations.

I was drawn to the two main characters in an instantaneous moment. Kalen and Ronnie, two opposites in many, many ways, but with one major struggle to overcome. Samantha Summers, in my opinion, successfully portrayed Ronnie and Kalen in a way that showcased their strengths, weaknesses, and sheer determination. In my opinion (and I hope others will agree), Ronnie and Kalen are high-ranking favorites. But let's not forget the surrounding characters, because I found them (even the not-so-nice ones) to be just as well-placed, and pivotal. They were very effectual.

There is one major struggle that both Ronnie and Kalen fight with, and that's the choice between following your head or your heart. This is a key factor for the romance of this book and like it says up above in the blurb, can we choose who we fall in love with? Samantha Summers successfully tackles this hurdle with genuine inner turmoil that will appeal to readers without making it cliche or overly done. It added that much needed tension between characters and will also help the reader see the surrounding characters in a new way. The thriller aspect was absolutely phenomenal! I was constantly on the edge of my seat, held in anticipation and trying to predict the ending outcome. There isn't extreme mystery, but that's a good thing. First Light doesn't need that mystery, the thriller aspect mixed with the heart-tingling romance is what this book is all about. As you read, you'll kind of know what is going to happen, but you won't know the specifics. . . that was what I wanted from First Light, so I was happy to receive that. Plus, mystery would have fogged over the glorious details. Well, actually, Kalen is the mystery, but only because he's such a complex character with many layers to investigate. The flashbacks that Samantha Summers provides (from Kalen's past) are extremely important in digging deeper into his character. First Light would definitely not be the same if those flashbacks were missing. They allowed us to get inside his head, see the inner workings of Project Five Fifteen, and witness his change.

There is some action, mostly towards the end, but it's still satisfying. First Light is laying the groundwork for the books to come, it's that necessary first step for a series that I know will be insanely good. First Light is introducing us to the important characters, showing us some of the history that we need, but mostly it's all about that decision to lead with your head or heart. A decision that will fuel the series.

I can openly admit that I'm extremely finicky about endings. A lot of them don't hold up to my expectations, but I can happily say that the ending in First Light is by far one of my favorite endings. It was just pure perfection. I was not left wanting, there was a finality, but it also leads perfectly into the next phase of the story and adventure. Well, that's an assumption since I haven't read the next book, but it's just one of those things that I know. I was grinning ear to ear as I read those last two chapters.

If you are looking for a book to sweep you off your feet with thrilling entertainment and sweet yet scalding romance then read First Light.

I just have one question: When can I get my hands on the second book?(less)

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May 13, 2013 Novels On The Run rated it 3 of 5 stars

BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 6th MAY 2013 :

RATING: 3.5 KALEN & ACE STARS

Veronica is attending her father’s funeral and she sees a boy standing to the side watching with a sad look on his face, his name is Kalen.

Kalen has many secrets, and many skeletons in his closet. His closet is rather stuffed full. Kalen is a child/teenage assassin.

I liked the idea of this story. I was torn when reading between really liking where Samantha took me....and being teased too much with Kalen and Ronnie’s relati...more

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Sep 01, 2012 Sharon rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: author-review, young-adult

More of my reviews @ www.obsessionwithbooks.blogspot.com

REVIEW: 3 ½ out of 5 stars

First Light is the first book in the Project Five Fifteen series and was kindly provided to me by the author, Samantha Summers in exchange for my honest review.

Veronica ‘Ronnie’ Rose is devastated by the recent death of her father and the news she and her sister Rachel are about to lose the family home and there seems to be only one person around to understand and offer support to her during such a tough time, Kale...more

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Jul 15, 2012 Sam rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-release, amazing-loved-it, book-with-gorgeous-boy, complicated-families, cute, i-own, kick-ass, pure-awesomeness

First Light is a book full of action and romance. If your looking for a gripping read with plenty of action scenes then pick up this book.

Veronica Rose is trying to cope with the loss of her father while juggling her complicated life; her father has left her and her sister with a big dept. Ronnie is on the verge of losing everything including her much-loved childhood home, Only one person can make her feel better. Kalen Smith has just moved to town with four other boys, they keep to themselves b...more

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Oct 30, 2012 Candace rated it 5 of 5 stars

Samantha Summers hit a home run when writing her novel, First Light, the first book in her new Project Five Fifteen series. It has everything a great Young Adult Literature novel needs: romance, action, mystery, heartache, and unforgettable characters that you will quickly fall in love with. I started reading First Light with the expectation that it was just another YA novel, a good read but nothing extraordinary. I could not have been more wrong, I truly think that the Project Five Fifteen book...more Samantha Summers hit a home run when writing her novel, First Light, the first book in her new Project Five Fifteen series. It has everything a great Young Adult Literature novel needs: romance, action, mystery, heartache, and unforgettable characters that you will quickly fall in love with. I started reading First Light with the expectation that it was just another YA novel, a good read but nothing extraordinary. I could not have been more wrong, I truly think that the Project Five Fifteen books could be the next *it* series. For this reason I have already begun telling my friends about this book and their need to read it! If Hollywood is smart, they will quickly be snatching up Project Five Fifteen to make it into the next big movie franchise.

Samantha Summers' First Light takes place in Clanots Ocean, an hour train ride from London. Ronnie, short for Veronica, lost her father after a long illness. In the midst of her grief at the funeral, Ronnie notices a strange teenager paying his respects to her father from a distance. Glad to have something to distract her from her crumbling life, Ronnie wonders who the boy is and how he knew her father. After running into each other more than once, Ronnie befriends the troubled Kalen and his group of dangerous friends. Ronnie quickly realizes that there is more to Kalen and his friends than meets the eye, but this doesn't stop her from falling in love with Kalen (all the while being discouraged by her sister Rachel and best friend Mae.)

Kalen shares with Ronnie that he and his friends Denver, Laith, Nash, and Ace were all plucked from US orphanages at a young age. But instead of living happily ever after with a new family, it was a secret branch of the US government that adopted them. The government raised them to be nameless assassins, sending the boys all over the world to do their dirty work. However, once Kalen found out the agency's plan to have the boys killed before they turned sixteen, he and his fellow assassins fled. Once Ronnie learns the truth about just who Kalen is, she will have to decide if their love is strong enough to hold them together through the storm that is quickly building.

I absolutely loved the relationship between Kalen and Ronnie. They definitely hold their own against other famous YA couples such as Edward and Bella (Twilight) or Rose and Dimitri (Vampire Academy.) The difference is there is no paranormal happenings in First Light. Other than Kalen and Ronnie, the other character that captured my heart was young Ace. At just fifteen years old, Ace is the most innocent and optimistic of the group. Never having experienced a true family life, Ace loves the feelings of normalcy he has when around Ronnie. Through Ronnie, Ace (and the others) are able to have home cooked meals and decorate for Christmas, things they never thought they would have.

I most definitely, without a doubt, recommend Samantha Summers' First Light to all YAL fans. You will truly fall in love with Ronnie, Kalen, and the other boys in his unit. I am now anxiously awaiting the news of when the next book in the Project Five Fifteen series is coming out. Trust me, I will be first in line to purchase As You Were. Watch out world, Project Five Fifteen is about to take over!

Samantha Summers has provided me with a complimentary copy of her book, First Light, for the purpose of review. (less)

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May 31, 2012 Michelle Lucas rated it 5 of 5 stars

I read on average a book a week as I commute in to work and it makes my train journey go faster. I am completely obsessed with certain books including the Twilight series, Harry Potters, True Blood’s and I now have to add this book to my obsession list! I read First Light so quickly and I was disappointed every time I had to put the book down, and when I finished it I was very sad that I didn’t have the second book to read straight away.

I give praise to the author who has created an amazing boo...more

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May 10, 2013 J.A. Huss rated it 4 of 5 stars

First reviewed at Clean Teen Reads

First, thank you to Xpresso Tours and Samantha Summers for providing me with a review copy of both books, First Light and As you Were.

This review is for both books on the Project five-Fifteen series.

Ok, well, book three cannot come out fast enough for me. This was fun. I admit, sometimes when I look at my review schedule I think I can pick out the books that make me worry if I will like them or not. I wasn’t sure about this series at first, mostly because I...more

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Jul 15, 2012 Tough Critic Book Reviews rated it 2 of 5 stars

Reading the synopsis for First Light very much intrigued my girly bits. What could possibly be hotter than someone sexy and mysterious that actually might want to kill you. Sign me up!

I don't want to say I was disappointed by the plot. I just wasn't grabbed by it like I expected to be and let's face it, I really wanted to be grabbed (by Kalen). The pace wasn't as quick as I thought it would be and found myself asking, "How is this all going to come together?" I know that's a tactic author's use...more

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May 15, 2012 Clare rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

As soon as I started reading this book I knew I was going to enjoy it. It has a gripping storyline from the very beginning and is excellently written, so much so that you don't want to put it down! The characters are easy to connect with and are excellently portrayed for a contemporary young audience. By the end you know who you hate, who you love and who you want to end up together. I found myself connecting with the main character, Ronnie to the point where I was thinking about the story and r...more

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Jun 27, 2012 Maria Martin rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, books-i-own

I thought First Light:Project Five Fifteen by Samantha Summers was excellent. Being American, once I got over the differences in British grammar or slang that is. However even noticing the differences such as "rusksack", "netball", S's instead of Z's and so on, were enjoyable to discover as well. I loved how she tied everything up so neatly in the end. For me, the book had one great romantic point: the male hero, Kalen was willing to give up everything he was and everything he'd ever known for t...more

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Oct 31, 2012 Helen rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I have enjoyed 'First Light' so much, that i read it three times in a very short period of time,
and are now waiting patiently for 'As You Were'. i would most certainly recommend it to anyone who loves to get lost in their books world and connect with the characters. its a 5 star from me.

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Jun 22, 2012 Emily♥ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, read-for-review, own, signed, arc

Ah, is that how it’s going to end!? Oh, the sequel can not be out soon enough.

First off, I would like to thank Ms. Summers for giving me the opportunity to read First Light!

There is just nothing better than a book with tons of action! It has everything I could have asked for, and then some. Ronnie is so heart wrenching, that sometimes it’s almost too much. I know first hand what it is like when someone you love dies and then you find stuff out about them that you didn’t know when they were still...more

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Nov 08, 2012 Mandy Sickle rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-in-series, favorites, 2012, read2review, reading-diaries-reviews, young-adult, suspense

I received First Light as part of the blog tour hosted by AToMR Tours in return for a honest review. For Veronica (Ronnie) Rose life hasn't been easy her mom walked out leaving her father to raise her and her older sister. For her older sister it wasn't easy she was always the needy of the two and half the time it fell on Ronnies shoulders to take a back seat while their dad gave extra attention to Rachel. Ronnie is a senior in high school turning eighteen in a few months when her father passes...more I received First Light as part of the blog tour hosted by AToMR Tours in return for a honest review. For Veronica (Ronnie) Rose life hasn't been easy her mom walked out leaving her father to raise her and her older sister. For her older sister it wasn't easy she was always the needy of the two and half the time it fell on Ronnies shoulders to take a back seat while their dad gave extra attention to Rachel. Ronnie is a senior in high school turning eighteen in a few months when her father passes away leaving her on her own since her older sister has her own life.

Ronnie is the kind of girl that's super kind and lets her older sister walk all over her when it comes to everything however mostly just into babysitting so she can go shopping. It is the day of her father’s funeral that she catches sight of a strange guy in all black that she's never seen before. The rumors around why his in town are vast everyone assumes since he lives with 4 other guys he's dealing drugs but as he starts to hang around Ronnie we learn his real story.

Three years ago Ronnie was attacked on the beach by a would be rapist but her hero whom she still dreams about when she needs to feel better saved her life. Now it seems that Kalen the new guy in her life is hanging around and even saves her life a few times. Both her sister and best friend are against her spending time with him but Ronnie can't help her attraction to him. Learning that her father has a gambling debt causing her to lose the house Ronnie sets out to find a plan to save her father’s home. She also didn't set out to fall in love with Kalen who keeps his past a mystery little does she know that his secret is what keeps him and his friends safe.

I was instantly drawn into the story, my heart went out to Ronnie because I know what it's like to lose a parent, and she reminds me a lot of myself. Ronnie is a great character she's kind to a fault, and has issues trusting after her mother left, she even lets her sister walk all over her. I wanted to bash her sisters head in many times the way she lets her boyfriend Jared manipulate her, as well as the way she treats Ronnie. Thankfully Ronnie meets Kalen who didn't have a normal childhood but is making a change in his life as well as changing Ronnie for the better. I really found First light well written the story flow smoothly I was able to read it in one span without stopping. I really liked the cloak and dagger aspect of the story it kept me on my toes plus who doesn't love a suspense story with a romance in the mix. I was nervous as I ran out of pages because I know that it's part of a series and I was worried it would cliffhanger but the ending was exactly the way it should of ended. I loved the book and I can't wait to read the next chapter in Ronnie and Kalen's story.
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Nov 07, 2012 Becky rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-contemporary, new-adult

I really enjoyed this book! I've never read a spy adventure or romance, but I have, of course, watched the Bourne trilogy and loved it! I liked Ronnie, while some may say that she cries too much I have to say "how can you not cry when you lost your last living parent? And, you're sister is a selfish b****!" Either way, I loved Kalen and thought he was very endearing in a direct way. I liked how straight-forward he was about liking Ronnie and wanting her! The romance was hot, especially one scene...more

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May 07, 2013 Daniela rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: for-review

Originally posted at The Cozy Armchair as part of a book tour organized by Xpresso Book Tours.

I signed up to be part of the tour for the Project Five Fifteen series because I was really interested in the concept. It helped that I was coming off of Altered, which was a fantastic read, so I wanted more mysterious boys experimented on by the government, escaping and being chased, and an innocent young woman being involved. I hadn’t read many books that dealt with this concept, but with the success...more Originally posted at The Cozy Armchair as part of a book tour organized by Xpresso Book Tours.

I signed up to be part of the tour for the Project Five Fifteen series because I was really interested in the concept. It helped that I was coming off of Altered, which was a fantastic read, so I wanted more mysterious boys experimented on by the government, escaping and being chased, and an innocent young woman being involved. I hadn’t read many books that dealt with this concept, but with the success I’ve had reading First Light, I think I can safely say I’ve found a guilty pleasure genre.

Following her father’s death, Ronnie has found herself dealing with multiple problems on her own, including trying to save the house she grew up in. Her sister is more preoccupied with herself than caring for Ronnie, so Ronnie is on her own in every way possible. Then Kalen enters her life and nothing is ever the same.

We get our first glimpse of the broody (and dreamy) Kalen at the funeral for Ronnie’s father. Her interest is immediately piqued because Kalen is one of the new guys in town. He’s moved in with a few other guys and no one knows anything about them. Everyone says they’re danger, but Ronnie is drawn into a relationship with Kalen anyway.

Is it full of cliches and drama? Of course! Ronnie goes against everyone’s advice to be with Kalen, while he breaks his own rules to get close to her. The ties between them run deep, but no one understands why Ronnie and Kalen would risk so much for each, like reputation and safety respectively.

Normally, I wouldn’t enjoy the kind of relationship they had. Kalen and Ronnie ran hot and cold with each other, alternating being caring and wanting distance, while Kalen loved pulling the “I’m not good for you” card. I could understand Ronnie’s reluctance to fully trust Kalen, though, especially when he made it clear that he could split at any second. That felt real to me, how she struggled to keep their relationship a friendship despite wanting more.

But I did enjoy the romance in this book! I was rooting for them every step of the way.

Beyond that, the plot is pretty exciting. In reality, not much happens throughout the beginning. As Kalen begins to reveal more about himself, we get flashbacks, and his situation is a truly sad one. He loathes what he had to do and thinks very little of himself, but it’s clear he cares about Ronnie and the other boys. His dynamic with them was really interesting to see, and I was surprised to find myself caring for them, too.

Overall, the writing style was great and made for a quick, entertaining read that left me wanting to pick up the sequel as soon as I turned the last page. If you’ve read Altered or a similar book and are looking for more (i.e. mysterious boys, secret government agencies, and lots of romance), then be sure to pick up First Light.(less)

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First Light (Project Five Fifteen #1)

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