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Insight (Insight #1)

by Jamie Magee (Goodreads Author)

3.88 of 5 stars 3.88 · rating details · 1,354 ratings · 204 reviews

Before that fateful summer night, Willow had balanced the insight of emotion, and the vivid images. That night, the figure in her nightmare marked her wrist with a star, giving her father no choice but to tell Willow a family secret that would abruptly change life, as she knew it, forever. Before Willow had time to absorb the shock of her father's secret, her soul mate tha...more

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Published August 3rd 2010 (first published July 20th 2010)

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Jan 07, 2013 Naomi rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: people who like free stuff

Shelves: free-kindle-books, paranormal-romance, reveiwed

This Reveiw Contains Minor Spoilers

Good ideas, but undeveloped plot and characters.

I feel that since I haven’t finished the book, I shouldn’t be judging the plot as I am, so keep in mind, this review is based on what I have read (38%). (I am also planning to finish the book later on so I can give a more balanced review, but for now, this is what I think).

I found myself bored actually. It was a unique plot, but I felt like there was nothing really happening after we met Landon. I knew that Drak...more

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Dec 28, 2010 Ana Lucía rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Insight has everything: mistery, danger, other dimensions and love beyond time. I was connected to the story right from the begining, getting to know all the characters how all were connected to each other and get alone even if they had not known before, and of course, the mystery behind every chapter.

What I liked the most was how well written everything was, explaining in detail each scene which made it appear that everything was real and not part of a book. It show us how blind humans beings a...more

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Oct 20, 2011 Cynthia Cene rated it 5 of 5 stars

Jamie Magee's imagination will suck you right in. Insight involves astrology, other dimensions, past lives, fate, dangerous encounters, and most of all love. I didn't want to put the book down and when I did I couldn't stop thinking about it.

All the characters are easy to follow and connect with. The dialogue of the story makes you feel like you are right there in the middle of it. The message that I got out of reading this is that your destiny may be written out for you but you have the power t...more

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Mar 06, 2011 Natasha Larry rated it 5 of 5 stars

I was contacted via e-mail by this talented author and was asked to review her debut novel and she offered to send me a review copy and she agreed to guest blog for me in the meantime. When I read how passionate she was about these characters I purchased this book-and was finished in one sitting.

Magee's writes with an elegance that flows effortlessly, and has the kind of natural talent that makes it hard for other writer's to review her. In other words, I hate her...and I wish I had written this...more

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Mar 17, 2011 Laura Ashlee rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011, young-adult

I oringally came upon Jamie Magee's novel on my first visit to Smashwords. It was free at the time and sounded very interesting. I tried to read it as soon as I downloaded it, but I just had too much going on at the time. When she signed up for the Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours, I jumped at the chance to finish up the novel I had started.

As far as characters go, Willow and Landen are jsut stellar. Though they've been in each other's dreams for years, they still manage to grow even closer toge...more

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Apr 28, 2011 Jane rated it 3 of 5 stars

Recommended to Jane by: Book reader addicts

Shelves: kindle, 3

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Having read some fantastic reviews for this novel I was looking forward to an action packed read full of intrigue and suspense. To be honest I was disappointed.

The storyline was unique and had the potential to be spellbinding, but some of the scenes were so weak they frustrated me. For example the demons that instilled unimaginable terror into everyone they went near were only awarded one sentence of description. They had red hair and spikes growing out of their spines and sounded more cute than...more

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Jul 12, 2012 Siobhan (Totally Bookalicious) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Insight is a unique fantasy tale about danger, adventure, mystery, family and of course the power of love. Willow is quite easy to connect with and its very clear from the start of novel that she really cares for her family and friends especially her little sister Libby, who is my favourite character in the novel. When Willow meets Landen the story really gets going and I was hooked. I really enjoyed reading about the idea of fate and how everything happens for a reason because I personally beli...more

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Jan 04, 2013 Chevy Aime rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: amazing-recommended-to-all, kindle-books, reviewed, favorites

WHY WAS THIS SO AMAZING?!?! AND WHY DON'T I HAVE THE NEXT BOOK IN MY HAND ALREADY!?!?!?!? Fuuuuuuhhhh where's the nearest Barnes and Nobles? I think I'm going to faint if I don't have that book soon. I can't go on like this. But I'm sad. Because I liked Drake. I feel like his intentions are just misguided but he's not evil. And Landen wow I want Landen. AND THANK GOD WILLOW IS NOT AN ANNOYING MAIN CHARACTER!! I don't think I would have been able to deal with a stupid main character in such a goo...more

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Nov 18, 2011 Better Read Than Dead (Kelly & Kristin) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I am completely amazed that I am just now finding out about The Insight Series. Insight is a truly amazing and inspirational tale weaved with unique mythology and modern day values. The characters are each unique, with an important role to play defining destiny.

Insight begins in the midst of one of Willow's painful repetitive nightmares where she finds herself face-to-face with her tormentor of many years. She will soon find that her life is fated to be intertwined with the maker of these horrib...more I am completely amazed that I am just now finding out about The Insight Series. Insight is a truly amazing and inspirational tale weaved with unique mythology and modern day values. The characters are each unique, with an important role to play defining destiny.

Insight begins in the midst of one of Willow's painful repetitive nightmares where she finds herself face-to-face with her tormentor of many years. She will soon find that her life is fated to be intertwined with the maker of these horrible dreams. Lucky for her, she is blessed with a loving and talented family, loyal friends, and a total kick butt soul mate. She will have to rely on everyone she knows to survive the trials that lie ahead of her. Willow is such a great protagonist. Honest, caring, loyal, and completely accepting of who she is. She is one of those heroins we love, you know...the ones that don't whine a bunch.

One thing I found slightly confusing about Insight was the amount of characters that played major roles. In the beginning, I thought I was going to have to make a chart to keep everyone straight. As I continued to read, the bonds were reinforced and each character carved out a little spot in my heart. Ms. Magee created an amazing group of interdependent characters who are ultimately striving for the same goal. Love and equality. Landen, Willow's soul mate, was one of my favorite characters. He and Willow met in their dreams, but their families have known each other for many years. This young couple will fight to save more than one world.

Another of the characters that really spoke to me was Dane. He and Willow have been friends throughout school, never more; however, Dane never hesitated to protect Willow from harm...even if the harm was herself. I was relieved to find out that Dane found his soul mate and was still highly involved in Willow's life.

I loved the overall theme of Insight. It provided a fresh outlook on fate and destiny. Willow and Landen have a difficult task ahead of them and I cannot wait to see how amazing these two will be.
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Apr 04, 2013 Abbie rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ebooks, never-read-again, paranormal-fantasy

Me: Oh thank goodness I've finally finished this book!

Friend: Was it good?

Me: It really depends on your definition of the word"good".

Friend: Why? What's the book about?

Me: Well, I don't even know where to begin. Insight could've been an amazing story. The plot was unique but I felt SUPER bored while I read it. There were some structural errors; the characters were poorly portrayed and underdeveloped; and there was a lack of finesse in describing the settings and events in the book. I felt like m...more

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Jan 09, 2013 Delaney added it · review of another edition

This was a truly amazing book. The author took the real world and put a believable twist on it-not something most writers can do. It was a young adult romance, but it had no sex, which is fantastic. It wasn't slow at all; it kept pace throughout the book as the main characters, Landen and Willow, face one problem after another. I was never bored for a minute, and I repeatedly found connections between Willow and myself, as well as the other characters. You immediately become attached to everyone...more

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Dec 21, 2012 Traci rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

When I first started reading this book, I didn't think I was going to like it. I'm never one to put a book down even if I don't think I'm going to like it, I finish it. I'm so glad that I didn't stop reading it, by the end of the book I was looking for the next one. I read this on my Android phone when I couldn't sleep and the sun was coming up when I forced myself to put it down. I enjoy Willow and how she can feel others emotions and she has vivid dreams. Some of her dreams are nightmares of a...more

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Sep 27, 2012 Sandra Glenn rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Though the book was well written and extraordinarily detailed and wonderful, there could have been more character development for my taste. The secondary characters had little traits, all of the characters seemed mildly bland... Like all the effort when into the story itself and subsequently the characters got left in the background and there wasn't too much actual character development. It also seemed as if each character played a major role, and while I enjoyed all the characters, I would have...more

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Jul 18, 2012 Belle (Little Paper Rose) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

- Review taken from my YA book blog Little Paper Rose

(2.5)

My first thoughts as I got into 'Insight' was that it was a bit familiar and I did make a few minor comparisons, though, excluding the obvious elements you may or may not have read somewhere before, I do recognize the effort Magee put into creating her own world.

A lot was going on and you had to always be at attention to follow the story which I eventually failed to do as my interest to it went uneven at times.

There were a few things I'd...more - Review taken from my YA book blog Little Paper Rose

(2.5)

My first thoughts as I got into 'Insight' was that it was a bit familiar and I did make a few minor comparisons, though, excluding the obvious elements you may or may not have read somewhere before, I do recognize the effort Magee put into creating her own world.

A lot was going on and you had to always be at attention to follow the story which I eventually failed to do as my interest to it went uneven at times.

There were a few things I'd hoped to turn out differently than it did. We meet Dane -Willow's good friend - at the start of the book and Magee portrays a close friendship in which Dane is the only one who knows about Willow's ability.
I really liked Dane and got the feeling he would have a higher purpose further along in the story but instead he faded into the back and I just felt there were unfinished business with him.

And then we have the mysterious blue-eyed boy Willow has repeatedly dreamed of. Personally, when thinking of the "blue-eyed boy" and then "Landon" who he appeared to be, I think of two totally different people.
The blue-eyed boy was mysterious and so intriguing whilst Landon appeared to be the most accessible guy ever. Mystery all poof and gone.

That they were meant to be and instantly loved each other did not help matters, at all. There were a tad too many "I love yous" and love-doveyness between the soul mates and I had to restrain myself from rolling my eyes.

Whom I did love was Libby - cutest thing ever! Astonishingly enough I also loved her ability and thought it was a clever add to keep the story rolling in the right direction.
There were a whole lot of side characters in 'Insight' and I found that it was hard to keep track of them. Someone would appear to be important and I wouldn't be able to recall who they were.

A major thing I felt about 'Insight' was that conflicts would work itself out so perfectly, every obstacle would be won over really smoothly and you knew it would. Nothing took me off guard and suspense never got the chance to even knock me on my shoulder, because before you knew it the sort-of-but-not-really-dangerous situations the characters found themselves in they would get out of.

I'm someone who normally don't go seeking out a fantasy read. From my point of view 'Insight' was decent but if you're into soul mates and such you might just love it.(less)

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Feb 16, 2012 Wendy rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, young-adult

Once again, I find myself comparing a YA novel to another YA novel I’ve read recently. I don’t do this because I can’t describe it accurately without comparison, but because it is too similar not to mention. It’s as if one author read the work of the other author and thought, “Hey, that’s an interesting idea! I should write a story like that, too -- and maybe make it better.” The only problem here is that the story just ends up being the same, with only a few differences here and there.

The nove...more

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Feb 01, 2012 Sunshyn rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I like the idea of the story and it's unique characters!! I also appreciate the two lead characters being equal in strength and their love across time. However, the story can become overwhelming as some ideas are merely skimmed over and others are so detailed you want to say "enough".

Unfortunately, the items skimmed over are the ones you want to know more about! (or you need more details to wrap your head around the concept.) For instance; I want to feel Willow's fear of the dream demons and I...more

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Oct 04, 2011 A. rated it 1 of 5 stars

Unfortunately, this is my second self-published book of 2011 that I just couldn't manage to force myself to finish (Children of the Elementi being the other).

In Insight's defense, I managed to get about 60% through the book before giving up (whereas with CotE, I only sludged through two chapters).

Problems I saw with this book:

1. Writing style. Initially I liked it. The more I read, the more tedious it became though. Anyone remember their high school English teacher telling you to "show, not tell...more Unfortunately, this is my second self-published book of 2011 that I just couldn't manage to force myself to finish (Children of the Elementi being the other).

In Insight's defense, I managed to get about 60% through the book before giving up (whereas with CotE, I only sludged through two chapters).

Problems I saw with this book:

1. Writing style. Initially I liked it. The more I read, the more tedious it became though. Anyone remember their high school English teacher telling you to "show, not tell" your story? Magee needs to revisit this lesson. Her dialogue was, for the most part, acceptably adequate. Descriptions of character actions were woefully not. If I never see the word "then" used in excessive tandem in another story, it'll be too soon.

"Then she did this. She then did this. He came over then." After awhile, this way of storytelling becomes incredibly tedious and it was ultimately one of the major reasons I had to stop reading.

2. The love stories. I understand this world Magee's created has a literal take on the concept of soulmates. I even understand how our protagonist can so easily accept her attraction to her apparent soulmate. But her human friend Dane?

Sorry, no. It's absolutely unrealistic, particularly when the author had already set up readers to acknowledge that Dane had a thing for his long-time friend Willow. The next thing you know, he's head over heels for someone else. I understand attraction can be like that from time to time but with teenagers it tends to be lust, not true love. Even fantasies should at times acknowledge generally understood truths.

3. I really don't know how to even propose a solution for this one, but Willow's ability and her constant observations like "he looked at her and radiated love from his entire being" also got tiring. Do these feelings overwhelm her? Magee says they do but she doesn't really give any concrete and enduring examples of how they adversely affect Willow, and the way Magee writes Willow's observations of others soon got more irritating than interesting.

Perhaps if she had taken a third person narrative over the first person that was used, this might have been easier to digest over the course of the entire work.

Overall, I'd probably give this a 1.5 star rating, which I don't think I can do on Goodreads. I loved the initial concept of travel between dimensions, but when the world seems more three-dimensional (no pun intended?) than the characters, it's difficult to truly get into the story further than on a merely superficial level.(less)

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Jun 07, 2011 Kimmie rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The book started out well. It pulled me in with the interesting plot. I really thought I selected another good book that'll keep me thrilled during these boring summer hours. Boy, I was wrong.

To start off...
There's this 18 year old girl named Willow (ignoring the fact that I don't like the name, because I can't judge a book) who has "fantastic" dreams of a blue-eyed boy (give me a break) named Landen. Well, they finally meet, and they INSTANTLY fall in love because they're soul-mates. Really, re...more

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Apr 03, 2011 aobibliophile™ rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

“I can't control my destiny, I trust my soul, my only goal is just to be. There's only now, there's only here. Give in to love or live in fear. No other path, no other way. No day but today.” - Jonathan Larson, writer/producer/author of the musical RENT

Willow Haywood is plagued by nightmares where a sinister shadowed figure is always present. in one of their nocturnal encounters, he marks her tattoo with a star. when her father Jason sees it, he reveals to her the family's guarded history.
Willo...more “I can't control my destiny, I trust my soul, my only goal is just to be. There's only now, there's only here. Give in to love or live in fear. No other path, no other way. No day but today.” - Jonathan Larson, writer/producer/author of the musical RENT

Willow Haywood is plagued by nightmares where a sinister shadowed figure is always present. in one of their nocturnal encounters, he marks her tattoo with a star. when her father Jason sees it, he reveals to her the family's guarded history.
Willow also dreams of a man and a place where she feels at peace, secure and very much in love. she knows that he is her soulmate but does not know how and where to find him until he unexpectedly shows up in the flesh.
when Willow's dearest friends are captured by Drake Blakeshire, she must learn to face and accept her destiny to save them.
i was in for a lot of surprise when i started reading this book. at first, i had a little difficulty understanding the author's ideas of insights, strings and traveling through them. i got past that though quickly and i realized that this was exactly how Willow felt when she learns about her family's secret and how this ties up with her unique abilities.
as far as i am concerned, i saw a lot of fresh ideas and i have to give author Jaime Magee a thumbs up for them. her tale combines fantasy, the Zodiac and the paranormal. it also highlights the redeeming strength of love, the amazing power of choice and how these two elements play a vital role in our lives.
i had a fun ride with Willow, her soulmate Landen Chambers and their respective families and friends as they each joined hands in facing a dark adversary.
Insight took me to a world both familiar and unknown and it was good to escape to that world for a while.

Disclosure of Material Connection: i am a member of the Book Lovin' Bitches E-book Tours and a copy was provided by the author. although payment may have been received by Book Lovin' Bitches E-book Tours, i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.(less)

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Sep 09, 2012 Tina rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I really just do not know how I feel about this one. It was a nice read, I didn't have problems continuing it. However, it didn't capture me enough to lets say pay to continue reading the series. Therefore I find myself changing when someone asks personally how I felt for the novel between a 3 and a 4 star. The characters were nice, there was no love triangle, it was a nice morality story, and yet I just couldn't find myself enthralled. It reminded me of Stargate in a lot of areas, especially wi...more I really just do not know how I feel about this one. It was a nice read, I didn't have problems continuing it. However, it didn't capture me enough to lets say pay to continue reading the series. Therefore I find myself changing when someone asks personally how I felt for the novel between a 3 and a 4 star. The characters were nice, there was no love triangle, it was a nice morality story, and yet I just couldn't find myself enthralled. It reminded me of Stargate in a lot of areas, especially with the mixing of the religions and yet everyone keeps mentioning the Egyptians and the mode of travel. The characters often just didn't feel believable to me. Moments which could have been crucial to understand got a 2 line description and then pages of OMG YOU CAN CLEARLY SEE WHY THAT IS A BAD IDEA... but no I really couldn't, not really. Someone mentioned this point already with the lack of detail and description with the Demons. I could further detail that with in the book there is the option of death or a bad dream. Yes I said DEATH and the heroine decides risking death and keeping people on life support is better...I mean it is really really bad nightmares, DUH! I think I would have gone for the nightmare lol, even if I woke up feeling sick, choking, crying, screaming, nausea... ya still would have rolled on the nightmare with lots of coffee between sleep. I could tell the author divested a lot of time and it was appreciated, however, I don't think it went through enough honest critiquing before publishing. Large chunks could have been edited out, they just did not assist in the plot, character attachment or evolution, and were just plain boring parts. This left me trudging along and overall a bit apathetic to the novel. Parts where any action started to build up quickly fizzled out with the heroine running away or being shielded, or even thrown out of the action which then we just see her crying waiting to find out what is happening. Oh well, I will digest this book a little more, it may be that I am being much to harsh. If I come to that conclusion I shall update the review/rating in accordance.(less)

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Jun 26, 2012 Katie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

In another review, someone said this book was exactly like another. I, apparently, have not read that other book because I found this book to be original and refreshing. It is a YA book, so it's pretty PG rated. Even after they are pronounced "as one" (like getting married) there was no mention of sex anywhere in the book after that, other than the fore shadowing of a baby. How they are going to make this baby is beyond me, maybe in the next book?

Anyway, I liked the story line - a girl with a p...more

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Jul 29, 2011 Kari rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This book is an original for sure. The idea is new and fresh, unlike many of the current paranormal books out today, and it is well written. It was easy for me to enjoy this book and get into it, and very difficult for me to put it down. The inner circle of characters are all given in-depth personalities and after awhile it seems as if you know them personally, as well as what happens to them. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes paranormal books.

With that said, I want to e...more This book is an original for sure. The idea is new and fresh, unlike many of the current paranormal books out today, and it is well written. It was easy for me to enjoy this book and get into it, and very difficult for me to put it down. The inner circle of characters are all given in-depth personalities and after awhile it seems as if you know them personally, as well as what happens to them. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes paranormal books.

With that said, I want to explain the things I did not like about the book.
1. the grammar/spelling/etc. I know no one is perfect, but I am the type of person that picks up on these things, and it annoyed me a few times that there were some errors. If you're going to publish a book (even if its JUST an e-book!!) take the time and care to make sure that someone who can catch these errors edits these books. Or PAY someone to do it. It is clear that the author put a lot of love and care into this book. So why stop at the great storyline?
2. the names of almost all the characters. willow reminds me of the buffy character. landen is boring (and not traditionally spelled right). Clarissa reminds me of that tv show on Nickelodeon so I just pictured this dorky girl every time she was mentioned. Dane-like the great canine type? Brady-I guess thats just a personal thing because I knew a Brady and...ick. Speaking of which, my other problem is that for some reason I kept picturing Brady as a teenager/adolescent boy. The way he acted and the description of him initially kept making me think he was younger than he actually was, not a married man with a baby on the way. He is the only character who I thought was flawed. Drake is just a ridiculous name, although I understand the allure because it does have a dark/evil ring to it.
3. The constant mention of how Landen and Willow were obsessed with each other. I read another review, and I was like aw come on, its sweet, its fiction. 88% into the book, I reconsidered my position.
4. I can't even tell you how many times the author decided to throw in: "They were hiding something from us..." Say it once, and leave it at that. Or use other kind of language. Repeating the same thing just gets annoying. I think that's kind of the point of a book...not knowing something that is going to happen. I mean, clearly, if an author was to basically spell out every important aspect of the book on page 1, then most readers would probably drop the book and feel they got a good synopsis out of the first page!

I know I have a lot of complaints (many of them really petty), but overall I truly did enjoy this book, and as I said, I would definitely recommend it.(less)

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Oct 17, 2012 Bayli rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance-young-adult, paranormal

I've been really thinking about what I want to say in this review... So... Here I go, I may edit this later.

When I first started this book I thought I was going to end up giving this novel about 4 stars. As i continued to read the number went down drastically.

It's not because this book is "bad" - it's not. Insight has a ton of creativity and you can tell that Jamie has so many wonderful ideas just bursting through out this entire book. It just seems none of them were really thought out and appl...more I've been really thinking about what I want to say in this review... So... Here I go, I may edit this later.

When I first started this book I thought I was going to end up giving this novel about 4 stars. As i continued to read the number went down drastically.

It's not because this book is "bad" - it's not. Insight has a ton of creativity and you can tell that Jamie has so many wonderful ideas just bursting through out this entire book. It just seems none of them were really thought out and applied thoroughly through out.

I love the idea of using horoscopes and having their meanings play a huge role in the world... I mean how cool is that?! But i think there could have been more research done into astronomy that really could have deepened this read.

I also felt the characterization was lacking... I didn't really know too much about any of the character's and I wasn't very attached at all, well, except for Libby... I really adore Libby.

I found Landon and Willows relationship rather annoying. Which is strange for me because I love the idea of Soul mates and being all mushy gushy... But this fealt like a little too much mush and gush and not enough of them actually SHOWING how much they love one another through actions. I think there relationship could have deepened even more if Willow did have more feelings towards Drake... I think that would have given the relationship more dynamic... You know, who will Willow really choose? I think Jamie tried to ask that question when Drake was kissing and touching Willow but I knew that Willow wasn't actually going to choose Drake...

With that being said: I knew that nothing was going to reallllyyy go wrong at all in this book. I found myself actually hoping that Landon or someone died or got stolen and that the book ended like that! Just giving me a reason to read the next book.

Okay, I feel like I'm being really hard on Jamie in this review but it's not that I didn't enjoy this book! I thought there were some really cool things happening- I just wish she would have delved deeper into all of it.

I may give the second book a chance and see how it goes!

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Apr 08, 2011 Andrea Guy rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-reads, book-loving-bitches-ebook-tours, ebook, young-adult, paranormal

This is a case of a book whose cover doesn't do it justice. Had I seen this book on a shelf in a bookstore I probably would of passed it over. I wouldn't have looked at the back cover blurb at all, but thanks to Book Lovin' Bitches, I did.

It would have been a shame to miss out on this wonderful young adult novel too. The characters are very vivid and the plot is unique. I loved that Willow and her family were from different dimensions. I liked that the author used the concept of having a soul ma...more

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Apr 28, 2011 April rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ya-paranormal

INSIGHT by Jamie Magee is an interesting YA urban fantasy/paranormal.Book One of the "INSIGHT SERIES". The plot is interesting,easy to follow,and will keep you turning the page.This story is about family,trust,magic,mystical powers,magical world that is rife with mystery,danger,adventure,action,true love,finding your soul mate,and good vs evil. This is an enduring love story for young adults ages from 15 +.It is a delightful tender love story of two different people with magical powers from an a...more

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Nov 30, 2010 Erin rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. A very original and interesting theory behind the story - a refreshing change from many of the other paranormal books out there. I liked the thoughts of a story involving astrology/zodiac, crossing dimensions, with just a touch of fairy tale.

The story started out very strong and promising - I loved the introduction to Willow, her dreams, and her abilities. She was a strong and private person. I really liked Dane and knew that he would play a bigger part in the grand scheme. Olivia was probably t...more A very original and interesting theory behind the story - a refreshing change from many of the other paranormal books out there. I liked the thoughts of a story involving astrology/zodiac, crossing dimensions, with just a touch of fairy tale.

The story started out very strong and promising - I loved the introduction to Willow, her dreams, and her abilities. She was a strong and private person. I really liked Dane and knew that he would play a bigger part in the grand scheme. Olivia was probably the next most developed character and I liked her, as well.

I even bought the instant love & star crossed soul mates path of the story hook, line, and sinker, which I usually have a hard time swallowing, since Willow and Landon had "known" each other at some level their entire lives. Also adding oompf to the instant love was the explanation from Landon regarding their cutlture - they are called and/or drawn to their soul mates cross-dimensionally.

Given all of this, I had very high hopes for the rest of the book. I began losing some of my hope when dimensions were crossed - it seems that with the discovery of Landon and the crossing of dimensions, Willow lost her independence and strong character. There was very little mention to the astrology/zodiac in comparison. I thought there would be a little more revealed or brought out - perhaps that's to come in future installments? Also, I appreciate people finding love, but it seems as though there was a pretty big hurry to make matches between Willow's "old" life's friends and her new friends and family. Perhaps these matches will prove to be necessary in upcoming installments of the story? And the last little bit that I'm still not sure how I feel is revelation surrounding Willow and Landon's way-way past lives and Libby (Willow's little sister) - it almost seemed as though they will are wanting to take ownership or the parenting of her vs. embracing their relationship with her in their current lives as a little sister. There is a reason she is the little sister in this life...

The last little bit is more inline with the editing. There were a few instances in which characters were mis-named, so that was a little confusing at times. Also, there was oddly placed punctuation - commas where there was no need, misplaced commas, or no commas at all when there probably should have been. I overlook quite a bit of editing since I know it can be cumbersome and hard to catch every single thing, but there are times when a lack of editing hinders the story telling because readers can't necessarily gauge the emotions, feelings, or even dialogue as they are intended.

Would I actively recommend this book? No, I don't really think so. Would I ever think of stopping someone from picking it up? No, I wouldn't do that, either. Like I said, it started out strong and really had the potential to be the 5-star story that others have rated it. It just fell a little short for me... (less)

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Jul 03, 2012 Christy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Goodness, I don't even know where to start. I'm slightly confused, over joyed, and sad at the same time. I enjoyed this book a LOT! The storyline is very unique and it's unlike others I have read. It felt original and not generic like a lot of YA books are becoming now. The character building flowed really well, but the characters are my biggest complaint!

I'm beyond confused at who is who and who plays what role and who did what?!!! I know there is a character chart but I haven't had the time to...more

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May 05, 2011 Gmr rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: YA fans

Recommended to Gmr by: Jamie Magee

I must say, I was rather surprised by this read. I thoroughly enjoyed the worlds she created. Infante (as this dimension is known) is wholly recognizable as today's society and it was interesting to see it positioned as the youngest amongst those explored. Chara is certainly a place that I would love to visit. The culture and beliefs...all peace and love...how could one resist! I mean to have your true soul mate be found as an actual reality not a fantasy, the ability to use your insight for the...more I must say, I was rather surprised by this read. I thoroughly enjoyed the worlds she created. Infante (as this dimension is known) is wholly recognizable as today's society and it was interesting to see it positioned as the youngest amongst those explored. Chara is certainly a place that I would love to visit. The culture and beliefs...all peace and love...how could one resist! I mean to have your true soul mate be found as an actual reality not a fantasy, the ability to use your insight for the good of others, and the chance to live in a land so beautiful in every way, what's not to love? Now Esterious is another story altogether and though it is dark and loathsome, there is a reason for it becoming that way that is revealed late in the text...but still, it's a land to be traveled around as opposed to through whenever possible. Moving forward....

The characters were varied and numerous. Seriously, you may need to take notes on more than one occasion to keep track of just who everyone is and their connections to each other, but that doesn't mean there aren't a few rough patches as well. There is no doubt that her dream boy is well....dreamy. Looks and attitude make a wonderful package indeed. The boy from her nightmares is equally memorable for several reasons but certainly not least on that list is the malice he emanates when push comes to shove. Perodine, on the other hand, remains a mystery till the final pages. She appears in a dream sequence that Willow has and although it seemed she was there to answer a few questions, she really only served to confuse the issues further. Also, when Landen is following his "beacon" to find his soul mate, it sort of just happens in the blink of an eye. One second he's searching and the next *POOF* she's there. I understand that the past events of the story play into the scenario that unfolds but it still felt sort of sudden when it actually happened. On the other hand...

The talents, or insights, that they each have (including Willow) cover a range of fascinating areas, one of the most predominate ones being that of the traveler as they are able to see the "strings" through which they can travel to the other dimensions or worlds. This is especially useful in aiding other travelers in their search for their soul mates. I loved the fact that the drive to find that one person that completed them was more of a given than a "group activity". The many insights encountered are explored throughout their adventure but never so much as to over shadow the story at the heart of it all.

In short, a magical yet realistic journey awaits all those willing to enter the "string"....and who knows, you may even find a bookish version of your soul mate. Recommended for Young Adult fans of all ages. There is not a hint of foul language nor are there any scenes that go beyond demure anticipation. Happy reading....(less)

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May 04, 2011 Kristen rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: magical, ya, romance

GENRE: YA Paranormal Romance
THEME: Magic/Zodiac
RECEIVED: From Author
AUTHOR: Jamie Magee
MY BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com

REVIEW:
I was happy to get the chance at reviewing Insight by Jamie Magee as apart of the Nurture Your Books Tour. I love finding books with a new twist in magic and other worlds that the author created. Magee does a great job in her debut book.

Willow Hayward is the lead female character; she has a special connection to people who need her in her world and as she finds ou...more

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Nov 17, 2011 ephrielle rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This was probably more of a two and a half star rating. I had a hard time getting through this one. It just couldn't seem to grab my attention. Over and over I found myself a bit bugged by a missing factor. The author had all the parts but the transition was missing. It was just too easy to keep my distance. I am not sure exactly how that could be fixed. I am sure you know what I mean. There is a huge difference between a book that follows the rules and a book that pulls you utterly into its pag...more This was probably more of a two and a half star rating. I had a hard time getting through this one. It just couldn't seem to grab my attention. Over and over I found myself a bit bugged by a missing factor. The author had all the parts but the transition was missing. It was just too easy to keep my distance. I am not sure exactly how that could be fixed. I am sure you know what I mean. There is a huge difference between a book that follows the rules and a book that pulls you utterly into its pages. I have read so many outstanding books that make sleep or eating seem unimportant. This wasn't one of them. Perhaps, a bit more editing would have done the trick. Or maybe everything just seemed to perfect and the crisis too weak.

In some of the reviews I have read people didn't like that Landon and Willow were so suddenly completely in love with no follow up. While it wasn't my favorite, I felt the author did a good job of explaining why this was. At the same time the author has created a so called perfect world in which things sometimes tend to go astray. For instance the fight between Landon and Willow was just awkward. It seemed to me that this should have been impossible. This book did also remind me a bit of Personal Demons. Not in the way you are probably thinking, however. Mainly, I got tired of hearing about how everyone smelled in that book. Similarly, in this book I got tired of hearing how everyone felt. There is a point when something has been repeated a bit too much. The same thing happened in Leven Thumps. I get it he is a toothpick you don't have to keep saying it. You have to read it to understand. So yeah a bit irritating.

As the book progressed I found it a bit easier to stay focused. Whether this was due to better development or my sheer will I couldn't say. I did grow almost fond of some of the characters and will be interested to see if they get developed a bit further in the books to come. Maybe other things will come together as well.

The book was a clean read although a bit off from the beaten track. Marriage is not practiced and the parents go from overprotective to completely okay with their little girl moving in with a teenage guy. That was hard for me to swallow but I was used to it by the end of the book. (less)

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About Jamie Magee

Jamie Magee has always believed that each of us have a defining gift that sets us apart from the rest of the world, she has always envied those who have known from their first breath what their gift was. Not knowing hers, she began a career in the fast paced world of business. Raising a young family, and competing to rise higher in that field would drive some to the point of insanity, but she alwa...more

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“I found you.No one can keep us apart now,and our love will now be the story told to define how sacred love is” — 23 people liked it

“Im not a baker so im not going to sugar coat it.” — 8 people liked it

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