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Addicted #1
Addicted to Magic
Jessica Warren comes from a long line of witches. At the age of eighteen her ability to wield magic will intensify and she'll be welcomed into the fold with open arms. That is, until she she risks it all.
Magic isn't something to be taken lightly. With each spell cast the user suffers dangerous after effects that carry the potential of destroying their life. After her parent's divorce, Jessica begins abusing her powers, but she really doesn't think she's doing anything wrong--it's everyone else that has a problem.
When one day her best friend, Amber, informs her that she had a vision of Jessica's mother dying in a car crash, a victim of her own abuse of magic, Jessica is in a race against time to save her mother. Her life is only complicated further when a boy catches her attention and she has to not only save the day, but keep all of her secrets hidden.
Magic isn't something to be taken lightly. With each spell cast the user suffers dangerous after effects that carry the potential of destroying their life. After her parent's divorce, Jessica begins abusing her powers, but she really doesn't think she's doing anything wrong--it's everyone else that has a problem.
When one day her best friend, Amber, informs her that she had a vision of Jessica's mother dying in a car crash, a victim of her own abuse of magic, Jessica is in a race against time to save her mother. Her life is only complicated further when a boy catches her attention and she has to not only save the day, but keep all of her secrets hidden.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2011
3 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
Brandi Salazar
17 books171 followersBrandi Salazar started writing poetry, short stories, and novels at a very young age, weaving tales to share with her friends that were geared toward making them laugh. Today her writing habits reflect that, ranging from mystery/suspense/thriller to paranormal and YA romance, and no matter how different her works may be, you can always find a healthy dose of action, romance, and humor. Under the pen name J.C. Valentine, she also writes erotic romance fiction.
A longtime resident of Ohio, Brandi lives with her husband, three children, a dog and five cats that keep her very busy. She holds a degree in Business and has plans to continue her education so she can one day become an editor to authors everywhere. When she isn’t crafting her next novel, toiling away at schoolwork, or hanging out with family, you can find her curled up in her favorite chair with her nose buried in a book.
*Note to readers: I am always willing to give away a free copy of any of my books--generally in ebook format--in exchange for your fair and honest review. If interested, please contact me via Goodreads or email at branflake3083@gmail.com.
A longtime resident of Ohio, Brandi lives with her husband, three children, a dog and five cats that keep her very busy. She holds a degree in Business and has plans to continue her education so she can one day become an editor to authors everywhere. When she isn’t crafting her next novel, toiling away at schoolwork, or hanging out with family, you can find her curled up in her favorite chair with her nose buried in a book.
*Note to readers: I am always willing to give away a free copy of any of my books--generally in ebook format--in exchange for your fair and honest review. If interested, please contact me via Goodreads or email at branflake3083@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 24, 2013
I'd go as high as 3½♥'s on this, but I had problems with the premise. There were contradictions, or at least something hinky in many scenes for me. While I've loved another book written by the same author, this one didn't rate as high.
I will say I am still eager to try all of this author's works. While this one didn't jazz me, I am still upbeat and optimistic about her writing in general.
I received a free eBook in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts are my own.
I will say I am still eager to try all of this author's works. While this one didn't jazz me, I am still upbeat and optimistic about her writing in general.
I received a free eBook in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts are my own.
May 2, 2013
I was provided a copy of Addicted to Magic in exchange for an honest review.
Addicted to Magic is a YA novel about witches - but with a twist. Jessica, a young witch has grown up with a difficult life. Her mother is an addict, of magic. Jessica, having witnessed the addiction and the affects it has had on their family - while struggling with her own addiction - has sworn off using magic as best she can. There are times when she uses it, knowing she shouldn't but can't seem to stop herself. Some of those times are completely careless, other times her heart is in the right place. I found her character incredibly real and easy to understand her motivations. The writing was clear, easy to read and the plot moved at a decent pace.
The story did have a cliffhanger ending, but most sequels leave something to be desired for the second book. There were a few unanswered questions and scenes that peaked my interest in the novel - which I hope are further elaborated on. (I don't want to address those things in here b/c of spoilers). I do hope that we see a little more magic along with other witches and perhaps a little more back story into all that.
All in all, I found Addicted to Magic to be refreshing in its uniqueness, with well-defined and relatable characters. I really liked Trent, once we got to know his character, as well as Jessica. I found myself cheering for their relationship, even with the obvious ups and downs. I look forward to reading the sequel and would recommend Addicted to Magic to lovers of paranormal and romance.
Addicted to Magic is a YA novel about witches - but with a twist. Jessica, a young witch has grown up with a difficult life. Her mother is an addict, of magic. Jessica, having witnessed the addiction and the affects it has had on their family - while struggling with her own addiction - has sworn off using magic as best she can. There are times when she uses it, knowing she shouldn't but can't seem to stop herself. Some of those times are completely careless, other times her heart is in the right place. I found her character incredibly real and easy to understand her motivations. The writing was clear, easy to read and the plot moved at a decent pace.
The story did have a cliffhanger ending, but most sequels leave something to be desired for the second book. There were a few unanswered questions and scenes that peaked my interest in the novel - which I hope are further elaborated on. (I don't want to address those things in here b/c of spoilers). I do hope that we see a little more magic along with other witches and perhaps a little more back story into all that.
All in all, I found Addicted to Magic to be refreshing in its uniqueness, with well-defined and relatable characters. I really liked Trent, once we got to know his character, as well as Jessica. I found myself cheering for their relationship, even with the obvious ups and downs. I look forward to reading the sequel and would recommend Addicted to Magic to lovers of paranormal and romance.
June 27, 2013
3.5 Stars
Overall a very well written novel. I'd have liked to seen more magic being used, a little more backstory on the witches and some additional details. I feel like a lot wasn't shown because we might have to wait for the second book, and that's okay - if that's the case.
The plot moved along well, good pacing and good characters. Recommend to lovers of paranormal
Overall a very well written novel. I'd have liked to seen more magic being used, a little more backstory on the witches and some additional details. I feel like a lot wasn't shown because we might have to wait for the second book, and that's okay - if that's the case.
The plot moved along well, good pacing and good characters. Recommend to lovers of paranormal
July 13, 2012
Very good YA story. I recommend it to those who enjoy good YA paranormal stories.
February 1, 2013
I wanted more than anything to give this book a 5 star rating. Story wise it was there. It was gripping, compelling, and an altogether fun read. There were just a few glitches that knocked it down a bit.
The descriptions in this novel were impeccable. Everything was laid out in minute detail. Salazar managed to do this without breaking the flow of the story or introducing a lull. It is always great to find an author that can integrate detailed, accurate descriptions into an upbeat novel. The descriptions never once took away from the smooth flow of this well written story.
The characters in this novel were great. From the very first page I found myself thinking “I really like her” [the main character]. She was so completely herself at all times. She was also a remarkably well developed character. Most of the main characters are quite well developed. You get to know enough about them that you can really relate to them. I also love that you not only get to know their personalities, but their physical appearances and the way that they comport themselves. You also get to know the characters gradually throughout the story, rather than one long narrative telling you about someone. I must admit that one character does remain somewhat mysterious, but I have a feeling that he’ll be making a bigger appearance in one of the future novels in the series.
I thoroughly enjoyed the take on magic that Salazar developed. Not only is magic itself unique within this novel but there are also consequences to using it. These consequences are what make magic seem so appealing yet dangerous to characters and readers alike.
My only issue with this book is that a couple of times the characters’ names kept switching, either flipping 2 people around in a scene, or in one scene someone had 2 different names. It was just enough that it made the sections confusing so that I had to re-read them to sort some details out. Even with how much I enjoyed this story, this gave me enough pause to give it a 4 star, rather than a 5 star rating.
Overall, this novella was very entertaining. I couldn’t put it down. Salazar’s work was as enthralling as usual. I’m already counting down the days until I can get my hands on the sequel.
The descriptions in this novel were impeccable. Everything was laid out in minute detail. Salazar managed to do this without breaking the flow of the story or introducing a lull. It is always great to find an author that can integrate detailed, accurate descriptions into an upbeat novel. The descriptions never once took away from the smooth flow of this well written story.
The characters in this novel were great. From the very first page I found myself thinking “I really like her” [the main character]. She was so completely herself at all times. She was also a remarkably well developed character. Most of the main characters are quite well developed. You get to know enough about them that you can really relate to them. I also love that you not only get to know their personalities, but their physical appearances and the way that they comport themselves. You also get to know the characters gradually throughout the story, rather than one long narrative telling you about someone. I must admit that one character does remain somewhat mysterious, but I have a feeling that he’ll be making a bigger appearance in one of the future novels in the series.
I thoroughly enjoyed the take on magic that Salazar developed. Not only is magic itself unique within this novel but there are also consequences to using it. These consequences are what make magic seem so appealing yet dangerous to characters and readers alike.
My only issue with this book is that a couple of times the characters’ names kept switching, either flipping 2 people around in a scene, or in one scene someone had 2 different names. It was just enough that it made the sections confusing so that I had to re-read them to sort some details out. Even with how much I enjoyed this story, this gave me enough pause to give it a 4 star, rather than a 5 star rating.
Overall, this novella was very entertaining. I couldn’t put it down. Salazar’s work was as enthralling as usual. I’m already counting down the days until I can get my hands on the sequel.
September 23, 2012
First, I would like to thank the author for providing me with an e-copy in exchange for an honest review. I always feel like I won the lottery or something when I have a review request in my email. :-)
Jessica has a problem. More like an addiction. To Magic. In this world magic is like alcohol; some people can use it responsibly, and others have to stay away from it entirely otherwise it becomes an addiction and can ruin their lives. Jessica has seen first hand the devastating effects. Her mom had a magic problem. They have gone from a happy family, to just the two of them living in little more than a shack. Despite all of that, Jessica is barely able to keep her own magic use down to a minimal level.
Of course when her Amber, her best friend, has a vision of Jessica’s mom dying in a car crash, she knows only magic will save her. She goes all out to prevent Amber’s vision from coming true. Of course, there are a few distractions in Jessica’s life, namely Carmen and Trent. It isn’t as much a live triangle as many YA books; there is a clear ‘winner’ and then a ‘what if’ guy. I preferred Carmen. But is he the winner or what if? I’m not telling. He did however have the best exchanges with Jess:
“Yeah, do I have stupid stamped on my forehead somewhere?”
I glanced at his forehead. “No, looks more like loser, but I forgot my glasses.”
Jessica is pretty witty. Or maybe I am just old, and the kids these days are funny. Who knows. :-) I laughed, and that is what matters.
I thought the whole magic as an addiction thing was a neat spin on the supernatural. It was an angle I had not considered before and it made me think twice about having powers. Overall, it was a god, solid YA book. There were a few minor editing issues (those always jump out at me), such as using the wrong name once or twice, but I was pretty easily able to figure out who was actually being spoken about.
I felt for the characters, their joys and sorrows were shared with me. The writing was good (editing issues aside) and I would recommend it for anyone who likes a unique YA.
Jessica has a problem. More like an addiction. To Magic. In this world magic is like alcohol; some people can use it responsibly, and others have to stay away from it entirely otherwise it becomes an addiction and can ruin their lives. Jessica has seen first hand the devastating effects. Her mom had a magic problem. They have gone from a happy family, to just the two of them living in little more than a shack. Despite all of that, Jessica is barely able to keep her own magic use down to a minimal level.
Of course when her Amber, her best friend, has a vision of Jessica’s mom dying in a car crash, she knows only magic will save her. She goes all out to prevent Amber’s vision from coming true. Of course, there are a few distractions in Jessica’s life, namely Carmen and Trent. It isn’t as much a live triangle as many YA books; there is a clear ‘winner’ and then a ‘what if’ guy. I preferred Carmen. But is he the winner or what if? I’m not telling. He did however have the best exchanges with Jess:
“Yeah, do I have stupid stamped on my forehead somewhere?”
I glanced at his forehead. “No, looks more like loser, but I forgot my glasses.”
Jessica is pretty witty. Or maybe I am just old, and the kids these days are funny. Who knows. :-) I laughed, and that is what matters.
I thought the whole magic as an addiction thing was a neat spin on the supernatural. It was an angle I had not considered before and it made me think twice about having powers. Overall, it was a god, solid YA book. There were a few minor editing issues (those always jump out at me), such as using the wrong name once or twice, but I was pretty easily able to figure out who was actually being spoken about.
I felt for the characters, their joys and sorrows were shared with me. The writing was good (editing issues aside) and I would recommend it for anyone who likes a unique YA.
May 30, 2013
The story is of Jessica, a young witch who lives in the mortal world. Having to look after her mother who is an addict and deal with her absent father, Jess is trying to keep her secrets hidden so that her life doesn't become any more difficult. Meeting a new boy, he brings to her life things she never knew she could feel but Jess has to decide if she would keep her secrets from him too. Learning, through her friend, of her mothers impending death Jess races to save her but at what cost?
I really did enjoy this book, it was very romantic. I would recommend this as a YA paranormal fiction. I look forward to the release of the second book as i felt a lot of things were left unanswered in this book. A great read.
I really did enjoy this book, it was very romantic. I would recommend this as a YA paranormal fiction. I look forward to the release of the second book as i felt a lot of things were left unanswered in this book. A great read.
November 13, 2012
I really liked the whole "catch 22" on casting spells. It's a whole new take on witches which makes Jessica's experiences comical yet disturbing when you see what happens when magic is being abused. I loved how her best friends latino family took her in and introduced her to the world of menudo and the importance of "familia". By the end of the book I was left with a lot of questions, which I'm sure was the authors intentions. I'm curious to see how the next book turns out. Something tells me Trent's tattoo is going to have a whole lot more meaning and Carmen will hopefully play a bigger part as far as romance goes.
December 29, 2012
I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more by this author.
Jessica is a likeable character and I quickly warmed to her. The story is well written and engaged me from the start - and I loved the fact that it offered a new twist on witches and their use of magic, as well as the self awareness that Jessica comes to throughout the book.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Addicted to Magic - Definitely one to read, and an author to keep an eye on!
Jessica is a likeable character and I quickly warmed to her. The story is well written and engaged me from the start - and I loved the fact that it offered a new twist on witches and their use of magic, as well as the self awareness that Jessica comes to throughout the book.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Addicted to Magic - Definitely one to read, and an author to keep an eye on!
December 6, 2012
Overall this book was quite interesting. I'm looking forward to reading part two of this series with the way it ended.
December 17, 2011
The story was great. It had everything I look for in a book.
The story is about a young girl name Jessica Warren. She's a witch. Well, you would think the book would be your typical witch story, but it's not. Jessica is battling against a lot of issues. Her parents divorce, her mother's issues and her own. And the coolest part about this book: when your a witch using your magic is like doing drugs, you get high. Jessica is addicted to magic and trying to get a handle on it, sometimes failing miserably just like her mother.
She is doing her best to pull herself together and lead a normal life after she was thrown into rehab. The only problem is her life isn't normal. She is taking care of her mother who is more or less a drug addict. She is also working to pay the bills at their house. She's barely making ends meet and she never whined about it which I liked. I liked her character a lot. I felt for her.
The only person Jessica has is her neurotic best friend Amber. A Spanish girl that never knows when to shut up. She is a little crazy, but would do anything for Jessica. Amber has her own special talent that I won't give away, but it plays a major role in the book when Amber lets her in on a dark secret.
This is around the time the story starts to take you on a crazy ride. Secrets are uncovered, connections are made and I found myself mesmerized.
Jessica meets Trent at a party almost by accident. He is charming, sweet and takes a liking to her. But there is a mystery to him and I couldn't quite put my finger on it. You also have Carmen, Amber's hot over brooding brother. He seems to always be angry or telling someone what to do. I saw a connection between them throughout the whole read and I found myself wishing they would get together. Carmen is more a bodyguard and meat head then the boyfriend type sadly, but I still hold out hope that something will come of the two of them.
The author has a way of writing a story and pulling me in. I loved the moments shared between Trent and Jessica. The pond was by far the most magical and romantic I've read in awhile. It was beautifully written and easily imagined.
The ending left me wanting more. And all the way through I was guessing and wrong more then right, and this is a good thing because I hate predictable stories.
The plot flowed beautifully, the characters were strong and the story was great. I look forward to reading more about Jessica Warren and her best friend Amber!
The story is about a young girl name Jessica Warren. She's a witch. Well, you would think the book would be your typical witch story, but it's not. Jessica is battling against a lot of issues. Her parents divorce, her mother's issues and her own. And the coolest part about this book: when your a witch using your magic is like doing drugs, you get high. Jessica is addicted to magic and trying to get a handle on it, sometimes failing miserably just like her mother.
She is doing her best to pull herself together and lead a normal life after she was thrown into rehab. The only problem is her life isn't normal. She is taking care of her mother who is more or less a drug addict. She is also working to pay the bills at their house. She's barely making ends meet and she never whined about it which I liked. I liked her character a lot. I felt for her.
The only person Jessica has is her neurotic best friend Amber. A Spanish girl that never knows when to shut up. She is a little crazy, but would do anything for Jessica. Amber has her own special talent that I won't give away, but it plays a major role in the book when Amber lets her in on a dark secret.
This is around the time the story starts to take you on a crazy ride. Secrets are uncovered, connections are made and I found myself mesmerized.
Jessica meets Trent at a party almost by accident. He is charming, sweet and takes a liking to her. But there is a mystery to him and I couldn't quite put my finger on it. You also have Carmen, Amber's hot over brooding brother. He seems to always be angry or telling someone what to do. I saw a connection between them throughout the whole read and I found myself wishing they would get together. Carmen is more a bodyguard and meat head then the boyfriend type sadly, but I still hold out hope that something will come of the two of them.
The author has a way of writing a story and pulling me in. I loved the moments shared between Trent and Jessica. The pond was by far the most magical and romantic I've read in awhile. It was beautifully written and easily imagined.
The ending left me wanting more. And all the way through I was guessing and wrong more then right, and this is a good thing because I hate predictable stories.
The plot flowed beautifully, the characters were strong and the story was great. I look forward to reading more about Jessica Warren and her best friend Amber!
March 7, 2013
I feel like this book had a lot of potential. Jessica Warren is a witch who has a problem. She loves casting spells too much to use it in small doses and her Mom is addicted to it as well on a level that could be potentially deadly.
Although I enjoyed the concept of this story it drove me a little crazy. The grammar made it hard to read and annoyed me to no end. Putting "I" instead of "me" or vice verse is hard to over look.
If not for the grammar I would give this book at least three stars, maybe even four. But its hard to over look such obvious mistakes while reading.
ARRGH!!!!!
Although I enjoyed the concept of this story it drove me a little crazy. The grammar made it hard to read and annoyed me to no end. Putting "I" instead of "me" or vice verse is hard to over look.
If not for the grammar I would give this book at least three stars, maybe even four. But its hard to over look such obvious mistakes while reading.
ARRGH!!!!!
January 11, 2012
It took me a little bit to get into this book. At first I felt like I was kind of thrown in the middle of a situation I didn't quite understand, as if there was a book before this I should have read to know what was going on. However, by the middle, I was more involved and interested in what was happening. Then, poof! It was done. The ending seemed a little abrupt to me, and there is a ton left unresolved. It just didn't feel like a complete story to me. However, I did get interested, and I'm slightly curious about how things will turn out. It's possible I'll read the next book.
July 16, 2012
I have to start out saying that I only read the sample from Amazon on my Kindle. I just couldn't get myself fully entwined enough to buy the book. It is only $.99, but I'm cheap. I would like to read the first for free and see if it gets more engrossing. If so, I would definitely buy the series. It has some really good visuals that have stayed with me since reading the sample, and that is saying a lot since most mornings I wake up and can't remember what I read the night before until I get back into the story the next evening. Perhaps the author will give this one a free preview day.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews