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Dancing #1
Dancing with Death
Murders have plagued the woods in the past, making them a place of fear. Eighteen year old Wendy and her friends become worried when a new string of murders come to their high school.
After a horrible car accident, Wendy returns to school, going from wallflower to popular overnight. Suddenly she is the center of attention, paying more attention to guys and clothes. Things are heating up for Wendy with more than one guy vying for her affections.
As the murderer edges closer to Wendy she realizes things are changing. She is afflicted with nightmares that are all too real and she herself is undergoing unnatural changes. Learning the truth about her past, could be the key to saving her future.
Dancing with Deception- Free
Dancing with Death- Available Now
Dancing with Demons- Available Now
Dancing with Disaster- Coming soon
Dancing with Destiny- Coming soon
After a horrible car accident, Wendy returns to school, going from wallflower to popular overnight. Suddenly she is the center of attention, paying more attention to guys and clothes. Things are heating up for Wendy with more than one guy vying for her affections.
As the murderer edges closer to Wendy she realizes things are changing. She is afflicted with nightmares that are all too real and she herself is undergoing unnatural changes. Learning the truth about her past, could be the key to saving her future.
Dancing with Deception- Free
Dancing with Death- Available Now
Dancing with Demons- Available Now
Dancing with Disaster- Coming soon
Dancing with Destiny- Coming soon
420 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2012
3 people are currently reading
679 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Heltsley
15 books325 followersAuthor, biologist, book nerd, and Greyhound lover.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 18, 2012
Review of Dancing with Death
4 stars
Confronted suddenly with two incredibly hot new males at her high school, eighteen-year-old Wendy thinks she’s at a romantic smorgasbord. A seldom-dater, she considers herself mostly invisible, and sticks close to her best friends, Halle and Jackson. But when first one of the new guys, transfer student Brandt, wants to date her, she thinks she really might be falling for him. Then the sexy new librarian, Matt, confesses his interest in her, and despite the fact that he is a faculty member and she’s still a student, the flames between them grow.
Meanwhile, other students are being murdered; in addition to six murders earlier, a popular cheerleader’s body is found in the woods, then another girl is thrown from the gym bleachers to her death. Wendy’s dreams recurrently feature the dead girls speaking to her, and they always say the same: “Death is coming, it’s coming for you.” Wendy’s got to quickly figure out which man is right for her, if either, and what this sudden onsurge of lust focused on her means: is it natural-or is it Supernatural?
4 stars
Confronted suddenly with two incredibly hot new males at her high school, eighteen-year-old Wendy thinks she’s at a romantic smorgasbord. A seldom-dater, she considers herself mostly invisible, and sticks close to her best friends, Halle and Jackson. But when first one of the new guys, transfer student Brandt, wants to date her, she thinks she really might be falling for him. Then the sexy new librarian, Matt, confesses his interest in her, and despite the fact that he is a faculty member and she’s still a student, the flames between them grow.
Meanwhile, other students are being murdered; in addition to six murders earlier, a popular cheerleader’s body is found in the woods, then another girl is thrown from the gym bleachers to her death. Wendy’s dreams recurrently feature the dead girls speaking to her, and they always say the same: “Death is coming, it’s coming for you.” Wendy’s got to quickly figure out which man is right for her, if either, and what this sudden onsurge of lust focused on her means: is it natural-or is it Supernatural?
October 16, 2013
I read this book because a friend recommended it to me. As I read through the novel, I was surprised how fast paced it was. Just in the first chapter my mind was overwhelmed with events and conversations. I really enjoyed it and just downloaded the prequel to the series because I want MORE! The third one isn't out yet, but I'll definitely be grabbing it. I looked through the other reviews for this novel and I'm surprised by some of the low ratings. Overall, I thought it was a great book that was entertaining and enthralling. I think Heltsely is a great author and I looked forward to her works.
November 11, 2012
Note: I recieved this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Now, I came into this book with a bit of a bias. This is my second book by Ms Heltsley, and I really disliked the first book. I was a little concerned about reading this because I loathe writing a bad review, and I was concerned that I might have to do it again.
I'm so glad that's not the case!!!
Now, I did find the dialogue fairly adult in many circumstances, but in this case, I can really chalk that up to the fact that there were no parents really around in this book. Well, not until the very end when Wendy's mother comes into play. Perhaps they grew up more quickly being alone, they were drinking, afterall. Not that I would say that drinking makes you adult, but yeah, there were some adult themes. I have to say, though, that Wendy being more concerned about her boots after being in a car accident than actually getting to safety cracked me up. Reminded me so much of my 18 year old neice. I just wanted to roll my eyes and ask, "What's wrong with you?"
Now, Mr. Pervy Matt the librarian really creeped me out at first, but I was able to adequately decide at I believe around 25% that Brandt was the killer. I wouldn't say that this book is predictable, even though I was able to pinpoint the killer so quickly, I actually think I had a pretty lucky guess. At that point in the book there wasn't anything in particular about him that would foreshadow his role, I just had a feeling about him. I guess I'mol fashioned or my librarian in high school wasn't hot enough, but dating a faculty member? Ick. Maybe I'm old fashioned.
Now there was a point at around 30%-50% where I temporarily stopped liking where the story was going. Overall, it honestly just seemed to me (at the time) that Wendy was just turning into a skank. I could probably word that better, but it's midnight. So yeah. She was skankifying herself. I normally am into YA and Christian books because, well, I'm a prude. I really don't dig the sex scenes, and although there were no sex in this book, I was just starting to wonder if there was going to be, and whether or not I'd be comfortable with it. Granted there's a warning in the blurb, I just kinda ignored that, so I can't really blame the author for that, but since those 20% dragged by (well not really dragged, but was slower than the rest) I knocked my score from a 5 to a 4. Sorry!
I was also kinda perturbed at first about the lack of paranormal. I went into this book expecting some awesomeness immediately, and it didn't show up until about maybe 60% or so? It did come with a reckoning though. VERY well done introduction the the paranormal. Dead girl voicemails, a murderer in the home, and who doesn't want to suddenly get hot overnight? I mean, I know I do. Bring it on! So although the paranormal aspect was really slow to come into play, I feel that it's acceptable, because it really gave the author plenty of time to create their cast. The characters were well developed and easily likeable, so I can understand wanting to have a solid foundation before you start building your walls.
So, I don't know if it's just a bias I have against teenagers, but sometimes their relationships are just soooooo annoying. This is how I felt about Wendy's relationship with Matt. So sugary sweet, I love yous within a week. BLAH. Although I thought it was annoying, it unfortunately is realistic in modern society. Crazy teenagers and their craziness.
So in my rambly sort of way (apologies, I stayed up later than normal because I couldn't sleep without finishing this book) what I'm basically saying is I liked this book. It was fun, it was exciting, there were points where I was so into what was going on that I was holding off on going to the bathroom, because I just HAD TO KNOW what was going on. (Not great for my bladder, I know.)
I would recommend this book to someone that likes an interesting story. I mean, seriously? Who's ever read a succubus story that wasn't erotica? I mean, I've not read one at all, but I'm willing to bet most of them are pretty smutty!
Now, I came into this book with a bit of a bias. This is my second book by Ms Heltsley, and I really disliked the first book. I was a little concerned about reading this because I loathe writing a bad review, and I was concerned that I might have to do it again.
I'm so glad that's not the case!!!
Now, I did find the dialogue fairly adult in many circumstances, but in this case, I can really chalk that up to the fact that there were no parents really around in this book. Well, not until the very end when Wendy's mother comes into play. Perhaps they grew up more quickly being alone, they were drinking, afterall. Not that I would say that drinking makes you adult, but yeah, there were some adult themes. I have to say, though, that Wendy being more concerned about her boots after being in a car accident than actually getting to safety cracked me up. Reminded me so much of my 18 year old neice. I just wanted to roll my eyes and ask, "What's wrong with you?"
Now, Mr. Pervy Matt the librarian really creeped me out at first, but I was able to adequately decide at I believe around 25% that Brandt was the killer. I wouldn't say that this book is predictable, even though I was able to pinpoint the killer so quickly, I actually think I had a pretty lucky guess. At that point in the book there wasn't anything in particular about him that would foreshadow his role, I just had a feeling about him. I guess I'mol fashioned or my librarian in high school wasn't hot enough, but dating a faculty member? Ick. Maybe I'm old fashioned.
Now there was a point at around 30%-50% where I temporarily stopped liking where the story was going. Overall, it honestly just seemed to me (at the time) that Wendy was just turning into a skank. I could probably word that better, but it's midnight. So yeah. She was skankifying herself. I normally am into YA and Christian books because, well, I'm a prude. I really don't dig the sex scenes, and although there were no sex in this book, I was just starting to wonder if there was going to be, and whether or not I'd be comfortable with it. Granted there's a warning in the blurb, I just kinda ignored that, so I can't really blame the author for that, but since those 20% dragged by (well not really dragged, but was slower than the rest) I knocked my score from a 5 to a 4. Sorry!
I was also kinda perturbed at first about the lack of paranormal. I went into this book expecting some awesomeness immediately, and it didn't show up until about maybe 60% or so? It did come with a reckoning though. VERY well done introduction the the paranormal. Dead girl voicemails, a murderer in the home, and who doesn't want to suddenly get hot overnight? I mean, I know I do. Bring it on! So although the paranormal aspect was really slow to come into play, I feel that it's acceptable, because it really gave the author plenty of time to create their cast. The characters were well developed and easily likeable, so I can understand wanting to have a solid foundation before you start building your walls.
So, I don't know if it's just a bias I have against teenagers, but sometimes their relationships are just soooooo annoying. This is how I felt about Wendy's relationship with Matt. So sugary sweet, I love yous within a week. BLAH. Although I thought it was annoying, it unfortunately is realistic in modern society. Crazy teenagers and their craziness.
So in my rambly sort of way (apologies, I stayed up later than normal because I couldn't sleep without finishing this book) what I'm basically saying is I liked this book. It was fun, it was exciting, there were points where I was so into what was going on that I was holding off on going to the bathroom, because I just HAD TO KNOW what was going on. (Not great for my bladder, I know.)
I would recommend this book to someone that likes an interesting story. I mean, seriously? Who's ever read a succubus story that wasn't erotica? I mean, I've not read one at all, but I'm willing to bet most of them are pretty smutty!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2016
Full review here: http://zodiacbookreviews.blogspot.com...
In Dancing with Death, Wendy is a senior in high school, living in a town plagued by murder after murder. The "Witchy Woods" where the murders took place is a place of fear, so when Wendy is hit by an oncoming car on a road alongside the woods, left in the ditch in her mangled car, she fears that that is how she will die. But before her car can explode she's saved by a stranger who pulls her out and takes her to the hospital. This car accident is only the beginning as Wendy's life changes forever.
There is a very good reason why I gave Dancing with Death only a 3.5. More than half of the book is just intense makeout scenes and finding the perfect outfit. I started to wonder if that was all this story was going to be about. What saved this book was the strange nightmares and messages from beyond the grave. This piqued my curiosity enough to find out what was really going on. Don't get me wrong, I like action but not when all of it is in the romantic sense. The story really picked up when Wendy and Halle found the locked chest in the attic filled with her family's secrets. Then there were the multiple murder attempts against Wendy's life. Basically I'm saying that, even if they are small, I would have liked more events to add suspense and intrigue within the first half.
I definitely wasn't expecting Wendy's secret family history to be what it was, though. I don't want to say too much about it since I want to leave that part for readers to find out, but I will say that she is a demon and the type of demon she is really explains the changes she undergoes. I thought the story would have had something to do with Death himself from looking at the title, Dancing with Death, but it really only refers to death itself.
I mentioned intense makeout scenes and, boy, are the INTENSE. Wendy finds herself with two guys vying for her attention--Brandt Summers, the new guy from California and Matt Geyer, the new school librarian. Maybe it's my bookish ways, but I loved Matt from the very beginning. Now that is perfect--a smokin' hot male librarian. But he's also genuine, loving, and respectful. I never really liked Brandt. That's all I can really say about him--I just didn't like him at all.
The conclusion was a little anti-climatic, but the question of whether Wendy will live to see the next year leaves me wanting for the next book, Dancing with Demons.
In Dancing with Death, Wendy is a senior in high school, living in a town plagued by murder after murder. The "Witchy Woods" where the murders took place is a place of fear, so when Wendy is hit by an oncoming car on a road alongside the woods, left in the ditch in her mangled car, she fears that that is how she will die. But before her car can explode she's saved by a stranger who pulls her out and takes her to the hospital. This car accident is only the beginning as Wendy's life changes forever.
There is a very good reason why I gave Dancing with Death only a 3.5. More than half of the book is just intense makeout scenes and finding the perfect outfit. I started to wonder if that was all this story was going to be about. What saved this book was the strange nightmares and messages from beyond the grave. This piqued my curiosity enough to find out what was really going on. Don't get me wrong, I like action but not when all of it is in the romantic sense. The story really picked up when Wendy and Halle found the locked chest in the attic filled with her family's secrets. Then there were the multiple murder attempts against Wendy's life. Basically I'm saying that, even if they are small, I would have liked more events to add suspense and intrigue within the first half.
I definitely wasn't expecting Wendy's secret family history to be what it was, though. I don't want to say too much about it since I want to leave that part for readers to find out, but I will say that she is a demon and the type of demon she is really explains the changes she undergoes. I thought the story would have had something to do with Death himself from looking at the title, Dancing with Death, but it really only refers to death itself.
I mentioned intense makeout scenes and, boy, are the INTENSE. Wendy finds herself with two guys vying for her attention--Brandt Summers, the new guy from California and Matt Geyer, the new school librarian. Maybe it's my bookish ways, but I loved Matt from the very beginning. Now that is perfect--a smokin' hot male librarian. But he's also genuine, loving, and respectful. I never really liked Brandt. That's all I can really say about him--I just didn't like him at all.
The conclusion was a little anti-climatic, but the question of whether Wendy will live to see the next year leaves me wanting for the next book, Dancing with Demons.
August 5, 2016
Dancing with Death is about Wendy, a high school senior who has been plagued with nightmares involving murdered girls her same age. The nightmares, along with the murders have been going on for the last 2 years and Wendy is suffering from the knowledge of what the victims have gone through (in her first-hand experience from her dreams).
Wendy has kept her nightmares a secret from her best friends (Halle and Jackson) for the last 2 years, and her resolve is starting to weigh on her, she hates the lies she has told but feels like there is no other way to keep her secret. When the new school year starts, along with a murder of one of her classmates, Wendy is involved in a hit and run accident. She is rescued by a mysterious man who leaves no information as to who he is. Wendy's life starts to change in a way she has no conscious thought of, she is dressing differently and is attracted to 2 men (Will and Brandt) at the same time.
Wendy finally breaks down and tells her friends about her nightmares and the warnings about her life being in danger. While they try to figure out how to keep Wendy protected, things seem to go from bad to worse. Wendy is caught of guard by the murderer, and after narrowing escaping with her life, she is told by her mother what she really is. Being something not quite human is a bitter pill to swallow, but learning that she must do things she never would have considered to keep herself alive is something Wendy, her best friends, her mother, and her boyfriend must work together to come up with a plan. While the plan doesn't go as it should, we are reminded that Wendy is a strong young woman who doesn't turn her back on her beliefs or her morals.
In this book, we are able to see into the life of a teenage girl. With the twists and turns that come up, along with the mystery behind who the murderer is discovered, it was an enjoyable read. As for the remaining story line, I can't wait to read more.
Wendy has kept her nightmares a secret from her best friends (Halle and Jackson) for the last 2 years, and her resolve is starting to weigh on her, she hates the lies she has told but feels like there is no other way to keep her secret. When the new school year starts, along with a murder of one of her classmates, Wendy is involved in a hit and run accident. She is rescued by a mysterious man who leaves no information as to who he is. Wendy's life starts to change in a way she has no conscious thought of, she is dressing differently and is attracted to 2 men (Will and Brandt) at the same time.
Wendy finally breaks down and tells her friends about her nightmares and the warnings about her life being in danger. While they try to figure out how to keep Wendy protected, things seem to go from bad to worse. Wendy is caught of guard by the murderer, and after narrowing escaping with her life, she is told by her mother what she really is. Being something not quite human is a bitter pill to swallow, but learning that she must do things she never would have considered to keep herself alive is something Wendy, her best friends, her mother, and her boyfriend must work together to come up with a plan. While the plan doesn't go as it should, we are reminded that Wendy is a strong young woman who doesn't turn her back on her beliefs or her morals.
In this book, we are able to see into the life of a teenage girl. With the twists and turns that come up, along with the mystery behind who the murderer is discovered, it was an enjoyable read. As for the remaining story line, I can't wait to read more.
September 17, 2012
Title: Dancing with Death
Author: Andrea Heltsley
Date of Release: August 10th, 2012
Number of Pages: 410
Source: ATOMR
Summary from Goodreads:
Murders have plagued the woods in the past, making them a place of fear. Eighteen year old Wendy and her friends become worried when a new string of murders come to their high school. After a horrible car accident, Wendy returns to school, going from wallflower to popular overnight. As the murderer edges closer to Wendy she realizes things are changing. She is afflicted with nightmares that are all too real and she herself is undergoing unnatural changes. Learning the truth about her past, could be the key to saving her future.
Review: First off this cover is absolutely wonderful. The girl is alone and not graced by a guy. I like that, because even though the main conflict of the story revolves around two guys, Wendy is the one who deals with the most inner turmoil. I am going to be perfectly honest and admit I had a hard time getting through this book. I am though, glad that I read it. Andrea Heltsley is a great writer, and I have no doubt book two will show even more talent than the first.
I did not like Wendy really as a character. I felt like the through the whole book, the main thing she did was lament about her wardrobe choices and then about guys. I did like the way she decided to handle the final big plot twist. The thing that stood out the most for me, was how I could feel the passion in the novel. I didn’t expect that, and it was a new thing for me to experience.
The novel, had me going who was the good guy, and who was the bad. Just when I thought I had the whole story arc figured out, I realized I did not. Since the whole paranormal aspect felt suddenly thrown in, I know book two will develop characters and make the plot thicken.
Author: Andrea Heltsley
Date of Release: August 10th, 2012
Number of Pages: 410
Source: ATOMR
Summary from Goodreads:
Murders have plagued the woods in the past, making them a place of fear. Eighteen year old Wendy and her friends become worried when a new string of murders come to their high school. After a horrible car accident, Wendy returns to school, going from wallflower to popular overnight. As the murderer edges closer to Wendy she realizes things are changing. She is afflicted with nightmares that are all too real and she herself is undergoing unnatural changes. Learning the truth about her past, could be the key to saving her future.
Review: First off this cover is absolutely wonderful. The girl is alone and not graced by a guy. I like that, because even though the main conflict of the story revolves around two guys, Wendy is the one who deals with the most inner turmoil. I am going to be perfectly honest and admit I had a hard time getting through this book. I am though, glad that I read it. Andrea Heltsley is a great writer, and I have no doubt book two will show even more talent than the first.
I did not like Wendy really as a character. I felt like the through the whole book, the main thing she did was lament about her wardrobe choices and then about guys. I did like the way she decided to handle the final big plot twist. The thing that stood out the most for me, was how I could feel the passion in the novel. I didn’t expect that, and it was a new thing for me to experience.
The novel, had me going who was the good guy, and who was the bad. Just when I thought I had the whole story arc figured out, I realized I did not. Since the whole paranormal aspect felt suddenly thrown in, I know book two will develop characters and make the plot thicken.
October 7, 2012
Life gets very interesting for High school senior, Wendy, after she almost die in a car accident:
❤ For starters, she feels as if she's being watched;
❤ She's having nightmares of dead girls;
❤ and two hot guys are suddenly competing for her affection.
Just Think....last week she was invisible!
Dancing with Death is a NEW ADULT novel sure to gain more than a few thumb ups. I offer up a very strong nod to this title.
The author pushes the envelope while still toeing the gray area on a particular taboo teenage romance issue. I found myself shocked and a tad bewildered at the turn of events. Dancing with Death is the second novel I've have the opportunity of reviewing for this author. Heltsley definitely doesn't lack in imagination. (And her covers are always “beautiful”!)
There were elements of mystic and a horror. This added to my motivation to see what was behind all the haunting. I was also very enthralled by the romance. The interactions were very well written and I could feel the chemistry as I read along. The plot was twisty, creepy, weird, fashionable, and cute.
Of my complaints, at times there was a disconnect with the characters and the situations. Their reactions and actions, while meshed well with the plot, were unrealistic. On another note, Wendy is so not the poster child for respectable dating for young women. While her actions are well explained, she'll definitely have you raising your eyebrow. Another element stopping me from rating higher is the grammar issues and a few inconsistencies that gave me pause. Overall, I enjoyed it. It may have had a few flaws; yet was overall intriguing and entertaining.
3.5 hearts.
❤ For starters, she feels as if she's being watched;
❤ She's having nightmares of dead girls;
❤ and two hot guys are suddenly competing for her affection.
Just Think....last week she was invisible!
Dancing with Death is a NEW ADULT novel sure to gain more than a few thumb ups. I offer up a very strong nod to this title.
The author pushes the envelope while still toeing the gray area on a particular taboo teenage romance issue. I found myself shocked and a tad bewildered at the turn of events. Dancing with Death is the second novel I've have the opportunity of reviewing for this author. Heltsley definitely doesn't lack in imagination. (And her covers are always “beautiful”!)
There were elements of mystic and a horror. This added to my motivation to see what was behind all the haunting. I was also very enthralled by the romance. The interactions were very well written and I could feel the chemistry as I read along. The plot was twisty, creepy, weird, fashionable, and cute.
Of my complaints, at times there was a disconnect with the characters and the situations. Their reactions and actions, while meshed well with the plot, were unrealistic. On another note, Wendy is so not the poster child for respectable dating for young women. While her actions are well explained, she'll definitely have you raising your eyebrow. Another element stopping me from rating higher is the grammar issues and a few inconsistencies that gave me pause. Overall, I enjoyed it. It may have had a few flaws; yet was overall intriguing and entertaining.
3.5 hearts.
June 13, 2013
I was quite surprised by Dancing With Death. I don't know if I was just unprepared for what was in store or whether I was shocked to find out I was reading about a succubus and a demon hunter. Even though I have read some YA reads in the last couple of years, I had not read about succubi.
Wendy and her friend Halle are typical high school girls. They share gossip, they like boys, although Halle is a more experienced girl than Wendi....until Wendi is injured in a car accident. This accident spurs her into a young-life crisis where all the boys at school start to notice her and the sexy way she dresses. After the accident she is a hot number in the halls and her hormones have been released....She is attracted to the new boy in school as well as the new librarian. She continues to have nightmares and feels that someone is watching her.
The writing is ok except I was bothered by the constant description of clothes selections. I felt like I was reading a fashion magazine and the amount the girls spent on clothes and accessories was a bit beyond what normal teens would spend, or maybe I am out of touch with that, way out of touch. I also didn't like the instant love between Wendy and the new boy from California and also between the librarian and Wendi...risky, risky!
Other than two things referenced above...it was an enjoyable read. I enjoy how Andrea spins her stories, how her characters support each other even in the worst of times. The fact that Wendy turned out to be not quite human, didn't bother me and I enjoyed learning about what a succubus does and how they change after reaching age 18. Interesting concept.
And I am sure paranormal YA fans will love it!
Wendy and her friend Halle are typical high school girls. They share gossip, they like boys, although Halle is a more experienced girl than Wendi....until Wendi is injured in a car accident. This accident spurs her into a young-life crisis where all the boys at school start to notice her and the sexy way she dresses. After the accident she is a hot number in the halls and her hormones have been released....She is attracted to the new boy in school as well as the new librarian. She continues to have nightmares and feels that someone is watching her.
The writing is ok except I was bothered by the constant description of clothes selections. I felt like I was reading a fashion magazine and the amount the girls spent on clothes and accessories was a bit beyond what normal teens would spend, or maybe I am out of touch with that, way out of touch. I also didn't like the instant love between Wendy and the new boy from California and also between the librarian and Wendi...risky, risky!
Other than two things referenced above...it was an enjoyable read. I enjoy how Andrea spins her stories, how her characters support each other even in the worst of times. The fact that Wendy turned out to be not quite human, didn't bother me and I enjoyed learning about what a succubus does and how they change after reaching age 18. Interesting concept.
And I am sure paranormal YA fans will love it!
Want to read
September 20, 2012The woods surrounding Wendy's school and town have a violent history of murders in the past and everyone knows to stay away from them. However, a new series of murders is happening in the woods now. Wendy is in a hit and run accident, which she barely manages to make it out of unscathed. She returns to school to find that the hot new guy, Brandt, wants to date her and there's a weird chemistry between her and the new school librarian. Wendy soon realizes that things around her are changing quickly - including herself. Will she be able to figure out the truth behind the murders and her past before it's too late?
The description and premise behind this book was really appealing to me. There are lots of paranormal books out there, and I thought the plot to this novel held some real originality. The characters were a tad cliched and didn't have much depth - they were basically stereotypical teenagers. I enjoyed the storyline of the book - especially the guessing game about the murderer and seeing how that part of the plot would play out. There were some twists that I wasn't expecting, which made the novel that much more exciting. The dialogue of the characters felt a bit forced to me at times, as if it wasn't how people (especially teens) would talk. The writing also felt a bit choppy and dulled down, which made it hard to get really into the book. Overall, I think that this is an good original paranormal novel that has a fresh concept for the genre. *Please note that the book I read for review was an advanced copy and the final book may be different than what I read.*
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
The description and premise behind this book was really appealing to me. There are lots of paranormal books out there, and I thought the plot to this novel held some real originality. The characters were a tad cliched and didn't have much depth - they were basically stereotypical teenagers. I enjoyed the storyline of the book - especially the guessing game about the murderer and seeing how that part of the plot would play out. There were some twists that I wasn't expecting, which made the novel that much more exciting. The dialogue of the characters felt a bit forced to me at times, as if it wasn't how people (especially teens) would talk. The writing also felt a bit choppy and dulled down, which made it hard to get really into the book. Overall, I think that this is an good original paranormal novel that has a fresh concept for the genre. *Please note that the book I read for review was an advanced copy and the final book may be different than what I read.*
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2013
I have been wanting to read books from Andrea Heltsley for quite some time. As shallow as it may seem the covers have always drawn me in, they're gorgeous. So obviously once I had the chance to review the book I immediately accepted and was so glad I did. This book was full of suspense, I was captivated straight from the start. Once I started I couldn't put the book down. There was so much drama and suspense, it was thrilling. The murderer was not who I expected it to be, and the twist in the story of what I thought was just a YA Romance, I soon found out it was so not.
So many murders and too close to home for Wendy. Two new hot guys show up and they're both interested in her. coincidence?? Doubtful. Soon this murderer is after Wendy only she has no clue why that is til she discovers her family s secret one that has been kept from her. Wendy is so confused, she's not sure who is after her and on top of that she must choose between these hot guys, Brandt is so sweet and gentle and Matt is caring and already head over heels in love with Wendy.
With her two best friends by her side, she is bound and determined to find out who is behind the murders and is now after her. She just didn't expect it to be someone so close to her. Find out if she will do what is asked of her and what is required of her in order to survive.
So many murders and too close to home for Wendy. Two new hot guys show up and they're both interested in her. coincidence?? Doubtful. Soon this murderer is after Wendy only she has no clue why that is til she discovers her family s secret one that has been kept from her. Wendy is so confused, she's not sure who is after her and on top of that she must choose between these hot guys, Brandt is so sweet and gentle and Matt is caring and already head over heels in love with Wendy.
With her two best friends by her side, she is bound and determined to find out who is behind the murders and is now after her. She just didn't expect it to be someone so close to her. Find out if she will do what is asked of her and what is required of her in order to survive.
September 17, 2012
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC copy of Dancing with Death. I am so excited to be a part of this blog tour for this book. I have to say that I love the cover of this book. It is so eye catching and the blurb really screams read me!
Wendy is a senior in high school and is not very popular. She is just going day by day to class. Then she is in a near fatal accident and things change for her. She starts having these dreams that seem real and she is not sure why she is having dreams of death. Then to make matters worse there is a murderer running lose and he has his sights on her. Not only is a murderer out to get her but she has two boys who like her.
What is a girl to do when she is caught in the middle of a love triangle? She must chose between these two boys but how can she. She is so confused because she is not sure why these boys like her and what they want from her. She is also nervous about her dreams and why death is haunting her. What will Wendy learn when she finds out why she is having these dreams and what they are preparing her for?
This is a paranormal must read.I must warn you though I do think it is a New Adult read because of some of the actions between Wendy and the Boys.
Wendy is a senior in high school and is not very popular. She is just going day by day to class. Then she is in a near fatal accident and things change for her. She starts having these dreams that seem real and she is not sure why she is having dreams of death. Then to make matters worse there is a murderer running lose and he has his sights on her. Not only is a murderer out to get her but she has two boys who like her.
What is a girl to do when she is caught in the middle of a love triangle? She must chose between these two boys but how can she. She is so confused because she is not sure why these boys like her and what they want from her. She is also nervous about her dreams and why death is haunting her. What will Wendy learn when she finds out why she is having these dreams and what they are preparing her for?
This is a paranormal must read.I must warn you though I do think it is a New Adult read because of some of the actions between Wendy and the Boys.
November 15, 2012
The beginning was a bit boring and moved slowly. When it finally got to the exciting and chilly part, I was engulfed with this novel so quickly...till it ended. I was hoping to finally see some action but that ended pretty quickly. The relationship between Matt and Wendy started developing quickly as the book went by, which really satisfied me. I kind of disliked her from the beginning because she just seemed to care too much about fashion, etc. even though she was so close to dying. Although that kind of foreshadows her true powers, which are revealed at the end, I feel like a lot less description on clothes and make up and a lot more action in this book. The two characters that I LOVED the most were Jackson and Halle. They were patient and stood by her side even with her new changes coming around. I would also like to see more of them in the second book. Would I buy the next book to read the rest of it? Probably because first, I would want to continue being updated about Matt and Wendy's relationship (and Halle and Jackson's!) and I would really want to see her grow and get used to her new seductive power.
December 3, 2012
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review via Lovers of Paranormal group R2R discussion.
The concept of the story was great and different. I was intrigued as to what was going on. I wanted to find out why the girls were murdered, who was behind such crimes.
The cover is gorgeous even though it doesn't quite give anything away about the main character.
The plot could have been developed a little more around those murders. In my opinion, the story steered too far into the adolescent vanities for it to be really entertaining to read. I found myself skipping through some of the dialog between the characters because I just knew what I was going to read. The dialog became predictable and too simple.
After I read more than half of the book I finally understood why the author was so inclined to describe the sex appeal of the main character. I would say that once I got the connection I enjoyed the story a bit more. Maybe it might be useful to provide more depth in the story at the beginning with small intriguing hints to keep the reader interested.
I think overall it was a good idea.
The concept of the story was great and different. I was intrigued as to what was going on. I wanted to find out why the girls were murdered, who was behind such crimes.
The cover is gorgeous even though it doesn't quite give anything away about the main character.
The plot could have been developed a little more around those murders. In my opinion, the story steered too far into the adolescent vanities for it to be really entertaining to read. I found myself skipping through some of the dialog between the characters because I just knew what I was going to read. The dialog became predictable and too simple.
After I read more than half of the book I finally understood why the author was so inclined to describe the sex appeal of the main character. I would say that once I got the connection I enjoyed the story a bit more. Maybe it might be useful to provide more depth in the story at the beginning with small intriguing hints to keep the reader interested.
I think overall it was a good idea.
October 19, 2013
4.5 overall rating.
After reading Dancing with Deception, I needed to know more about Wendy and her frightening world. Well, I wasn't disappointed.
Even though I got frustrated with Wendy several times for keeping things too herself and being so naive about boys and being alone with them, I really loved this book!
It kept my interested and made me worry for Wendy and what was going to happen to her. I liked the male leads and kept wondering who it was that was terrorizing Wendy and who was Killing all those poor girls.
Let's just say, Ms. Heltsley did a great job of keeping me guessing. One minute I was sure it was so and so then the next I was doubting my resolve.
By the end of the book, I was pretty sure who the villain was, but it was fun to figure it out. I love a good mystery that leads me in all kinds of directions and this was a fun and creepy read.
I'm looking forward to Dancing with Demons. I've also picked up the first Persephone book because I love the Persephone myth.
Andrea Heltsley is a great story teller and I'm looking forward to more of her books!
After reading Dancing with Deception, I needed to know more about Wendy and her frightening world. Well, I wasn't disappointed.
Even though I got frustrated with Wendy several times for keeping things too herself and being so naive about boys and being alone with them, I really loved this book!
It kept my interested and made me worry for Wendy and what was going to happen to her. I liked the male leads and kept wondering who it was that was terrorizing Wendy and who was Killing all those poor girls.
Let's just say, Ms. Heltsley did a great job of keeping me guessing. One minute I was sure it was so and so then the next I was doubting my resolve.
By the end of the book, I was pretty sure who the villain was, but it was fun to figure it out. I love a good mystery that leads me in all kinds of directions and this was a fun and creepy read.
I'm looking forward to Dancing with Demons. I've also picked up the first Persephone book because I love the Persephone myth.
Andrea Heltsley is a great story teller and I'm looking forward to more of her books!
November 24, 2012
Dancing With Death is a mystery, within a mystery, within a paranormal murder mystery. The first mystery is what is occurring in Wendy's life. The second mystery has to do with Wendy's family. As Wendy is trying to deal with and understand the things that are happening in her life, her best
friends Halle and Jackson are with her every step of the way. Two new guys come into the picture, Brandt and Matt. The question is which one is the one that Wendy really wants to be with? Add to that the mystery of who is killing young girls in their town, and how it impacts all of their lives.
I really enjoyed reading this book, and I am looking forward to reading the sequel when it comes out in 2013. There is some proofreading/editing that needs to be done to the book, but I was able to read through those areas without any problem.
DISCLAIMER: This book was gifted to me by the author (through the Goodreads) website in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own, and no money or other
compensation was provided for this review.
friends Halle and Jackson are with her every step of the way. Two new guys come into the picture, Brandt and Matt. The question is which one is the one that Wendy really wants to be with? Add to that the mystery of who is killing young girls in their town, and how it impacts all of their lives.
I really enjoyed reading this book, and I am looking forward to reading the sequel when it comes out in 2013. There is some proofreading/editing that needs to be done to the book, but I was able to read through those areas without any problem.
DISCLAIMER: This book was gifted to me by the author (through the Goodreads) website in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own, and no money or other
compensation was provided for this review.
December 2, 2012
R2R: Dancing with Death
(I received a free copy, for a review)
Wendy is your typical teenager, who minds to herself and her 2 best friends. Murders in the local woods are making the student body nervous, since it is their own, that are being murdered. Wendy somehow gets into a severe car accident, but is saved by a fellow classmate, who's nice on the eyes too. After this experience though, Wendy is changing, becoming more daring in dress and slight changes with her looks. All of this leads to a shocking revelation, nothing that a person could even dream of happening.
"I thought it was Whitney Gladstone but I turned out to be wrong. Then there was Julie Feldman. I was sure she was the one, but her death was not the life I was supposed to take. This is when I met you. Then, the other night, I finally knew it was you I was looking for."
3.5 stars on this one! The book took a turn that I was not expecting and was a lot of fun to read. This will be a great upcoming series and I can't wait!
(I received a free copy, for a review)
Wendy is your typical teenager, who minds to herself and her 2 best friends. Murders in the local woods are making the student body nervous, since it is their own, that are being murdered. Wendy somehow gets into a severe car accident, but is saved by a fellow classmate, who's nice on the eyes too. After this experience though, Wendy is changing, becoming more daring in dress and slight changes with her looks. All of this leads to a shocking revelation, nothing that a person could even dream of happening.
"I thought it was Whitney Gladstone but I turned out to be wrong. Then there was Julie Feldman. I was sure she was the one, but her death was not the life I was supposed to take. This is when I met you. Then, the other night, I finally knew it was you I was looking for."
3.5 stars on this one! The book took a turn that I was not expecting and was a lot of fun to read. This will be a great upcoming series and I can't wait!
January 2, 2025
*Free copy sent to me for participating in a Read To Review*
I think this was quite interesting because I was given a choice of three books to reviews and I automatically chose this one because it looked really interesting. It did turn out to be one of those occasions where I was actually right. :D
I loved the main character Wendy, actually I love how well all of the characters were written and portrayed. However the majority of the book deals with her feelings towards two guys Brandt and Matt which I understand about it's normal for an eighteen year old to focus on this, although I would have liked a little more on what was happening around her with the murders and everything.
The only thing that had let me down a little was that by the middle of the book when Wendy ends up in hospital is that I was able to guess correctly who the murderer was, it wasn't a big deal I just thought it should have been a little less predictable but never the less I look forward to the next book.
I think this was quite interesting because I was given a choice of three books to reviews and I automatically chose this one because it looked really interesting. It did turn out to be one of those occasions where I was actually right. :D
I loved the main character Wendy, actually I love how well all of the characters were written and portrayed. However the majority of the book deals with her feelings towards two guys Brandt and Matt which I understand about it's normal for an eighteen year old to focus on this, although I would have liked a little more on what was happening around her with the murders and everything.
The only thing that had let me down a little was that by the middle of the book when Wendy ends up in hospital is that I was able to guess correctly who the murderer was, it wasn't a big deal I just thought it should have been a little less predictable but never the less I look forward to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2013
The cover alone had me hooked. It is definitely a cross between horror and paranormal with best of both world weaved into it.
Caught in a love triangle is always a fun read though I didn’t like the secret tryst visits with a teacher. Too weird. Matt, the teacher (i.e. librarian) is great beyond belief, but he’s a teacher. Brandt is great, but I always wonder in the back of my mind about him. Hmm!
Either way, they are both mysterious and as a young girl, she is intrigued with both of them.
There’s too much to say that won’t spoil the story for you, but if you read the 0.5 novella before reading this, it gives you a little background. Would definitely recommend.
Overall, loved the story for the horror element added to it. It was new and refreshing.
Caught in a love triangle is always a fun read though I didn’t like the secret tryst visits with a teacher. Too weird. Matt, the teacher (i.e. librarian) is great beyond belief, but he’s a teacher. Brandt is great, but I always wonder in the back of my mind about him. Hmm!
Either way, they are both mysterious and as a young girl, she is intrigued with both of them.
There’s too much to say that won’t spoil the story for you, but if you read the 0.5 novella before reading this, it gives you a little background. Would definitely recommend.
Overall, loved the story for the horror element added to it. It was new and refreshing.
August 15, 2020
Wow, I really enjoyed reading this book.
So, the main character, Wendy, goes from being invisible to being the hottest girl in her school. In the prequel you learn that Wendy has nightmares about girls that re murdered & it peaks your interest, but you don't really find out how it's all related till this book.
There's love, some action, plenty of suspense & a great deal of steamy senses (but not too bad)
Wendy enters a forbidden romance, you find out who the killer is & it'll surprise you, plus you'll laugh at her friends.
The real action picks up closer to the end of the book, when you find out what Wendy is, who the killer is & why he kills, why her parents haven't been around & that birth doesn't define who you are.
This book deserves it's 5 stars & I can't wait to start the sequel!
So, the main character, Wendy, goes from being invisible to being the hottest girl in her school. In the prequel you learn that Wendy has nightmares about girls that re murdered & it peaks your interest, but you don't really find out how it's all related till this book.
There's love, some action, plenty of suspense & a great deal of steamy senses (but not too bad)
Wendy enters a forbidden romance, you find out who the killer is & it'll surprise you, plus you'll laugh at her friends.
The real action picks up closer to the end of the book, when you find out what Wendy is, who the killer is & why he kills, why her parents haven't been around & that birth doesn't define who you are.
This book deserves it's 5 stars & I can't wait to start the sequel!
November 2, 2017
"Dancing with Death" is dark, brooding and gives just the right does of ominous things to come. Wendy's friendships and relationships are what keeps the pages turning, the inevitable what if and the taboo. All this and more is delivered in Heltsley's "Dancing with Death." While better than "Dissolve," the dialogue was at times too formal for a group of high school students, I thought. Besides this, the story was well executed and the characters compelling. A good light, albeit gloomy read, I was glad to receive this book through an R&R program. Give death a chance and dare to dance with Heltsley's imagination.
November 7, 2012
Murders have plagued the woods in past making this a place of fear, eighteen year old Wendy car accident makes her center of attention overnight. She is afficted with nightmares and can't keep her mind off two young men in her school.
First, I wanted to know more about her than her boyfriends and clothes.
And a little more in the beginning about her family, would have made her a little more likable in the end. If she turn to Miss America, please give her the brains to with it.
I like this book and I want to what happen to Wendy.
First, I wanted to know more about her than her boyfriends and clothes.
And a little more in the beginning about her family, would have made her a little more likable in the end. If she turn to Miss America, please give her the brains to with it.
I like this book and I want to what happen to Wendy.
November 14, 2012
Truthfully, I would rate this book a 3.5. I did like this book and would read the next book. However, I felt like this book did not start until halfway through. Wendy is 18 and is a senior in high school. She gets into a car accident and her life changes. She went from being invisible to having 2 guys in love with her. The first half of the book is about her love affairs between the two guys. The second half of the book is so jammed full of information that it feels rushed. Like I said, I do want to read the second book to see what happens; I just hope that it flows better.
November 22, 2012
First of all I must say I LOVED the cover... and but thats about as far as it got with me! I am sorry to say that the book just didnt catch me like I thought it would! The characters to me were boring and alot of the things said were really cheesy. It had no feeling to it! I hate to write bad reviews, but I got the book for my honest review and so here it is! For me emotion makes a book and Dancing with Death was lacking it for me! All in all the book wasnt for me!
February 20, 2014
I loved this book. It's got a lot of twists and turns and just a bit of the scary/creepy factor to make it even more fun. I was trying to figure out what the heck was going on with the main character (I didn't read any spoilers ahead of time) and was super surprised. I stayed up late of finish it. Love her take on the succubus. Love this author! Will be reading the rest of the series!
Read
September 13, 2012DNF... Just boring. Too many paragraphs on what the chick is wearing, and not enough use of contractions.
kindle-i-own-to-read
January 1, 2013Amazon Freebie 01/01/2013
August 4, 2014
Another great story and this is the first book in the Dancing series. I couldn't get enough of this story.
My review will be available on Audible and once it's posted I'll update this page.
My review will be available on Audible and once it's posted I'll update this page.
Want to read
July 17, 2012AHHH I can't wait to read this book :D
July 7, 2025
I seemed to have goofed. This is not the book I actually read but I can’t figure out how to remove it from my record.
September 16, 2012
Dancing with Death was not a very enjoyable novel to me. I feel bad whenever I give books bad reviews, because the author must have put so much effort into trying to make it a good book. However, keep in mind that these are merely my personal opinions and that others may enjoy the book, even though I didn't.
The character development is okay, but I didn't feel that there was enough. I felt like I didn't really know very much about Wendy's character and she is the narrator. The majority of the book deals with her feelings for Brandt and Matt; they are all she can think or talk about for a long time and I found that that was getting in the way of any real information about her as a person. I don't think that any of the characters were developed well enough to connect with and, after completing the novel, I don't feel that I really know the true characters, only certain aspects of each of them.
The story was also only okay. I didn't care for it. I didn't feel that it was a very creative storyline and I found a lot of things to seem very unrealistic. One aspect that seemed unrealistic, to me, was when Wendy received a strange phone call from a voice that sounded familiar. All of a sudden, she figured out that the call was from a dead girl named Julie Feldman. She tells her friend, Halle, about her discovery and Halle simply hops on board with almost no hesitation and says, "Okay, that is very creepy. I recognize her voice and you are right, it was Julie Feldman." Wendy's friends all just simply agree that she is being contacted by someone that is dead and there is no other explanation -- it's just a fact -- and they move on. What?! This would never happen in real life! A first reaction would most likely be Hell no, that can't be Julie, she's dead! and try to find a different explanation until there is no other explanation...and even then, wouldn't there still be some hesitation??
Another unrealistic aspect was when Wendy was trying to choose between the two men in her life. This is what she said: The worst part of it was that I don't know if I could even choose if I wanted to. They both brought so much to the table and I was more confused than ever. At this point in the novel, Wendy barely even knows Matt. They only had one date and all they did was make out and talked about cheating on Brandt and keeping their relationship a secret. As a reader, I did not witness any real relationship building between Wendy and Matt at this point. So, I don't get why she is struggling so much.
The writing...oh my...I don't want to be a book-basher and my review, so far, seems like I am being one. I hope that if the author reads this review, she will take it as constructive criticism and try to become a better writer. I do not intend to offend anyone or to be known as a book-basher. But, the writing in this novel is very weak. There are inconsistencies in tense, many errors in sentence structure, typos, the conversations seem forced, and there are not enough contractions used during the conversations. There were so many obvious mistakes that I found myself shaking my head a lot throughout reading this book. The writing was the major contributing factor to me not enjoying Dancing with Death, as it was constantly jarring me out of the story.
I'm sorry and I feel that I may have been a bit harsh in this review, but I actually held back quite a bit. I sincerely hope that the author can take constructive criticism and move forward. I will say that I love the cover. Also, I was able to finish the novel, so there was some level of interest on my part.
This review also published on SIK Book Reviews
The character development is okay, but I didn't feel that there was enough. I felt like I didn't really know very much about Wendy's character and she is the narrator. The majority of the book deals with her feelings for Brandt and Matt; they are all she can think or talk about for a long time and I found that that was getting in the way of any real information about her as a person. I don't think that any of the characters were developed well enough to connect with and, after completing the novel, I don't feel that I really know the true characters, only certain aspects of each of them.
The story was also only okay. I didn't care for it. I didn't feel that it was a very creative storyline and I found a lot of things to seem very unrealistic. One aspect that seemed unrealistic, to me, was when Wendy received a strange phone call from a voice that sounded familiar. All of a sudden, she figured out that the call was from a dead girl named Julie Feldman. She tells her friend, Halle, about her discovery and Halle simply hops on board with almost no hesitation and says, "Okay, that is very creepy. I recognize her voice and you are right, it was Julie Feldman." Wendy's friends all just simply agree that she is being contacted by someone that is dead and there is no other explanation -- it's just a fact -- and they move on. What?! This would never happen in real life! A first reaction would most likely be Hell no, that can't be Julie, she's dead! and try to find a different explanation until there is no other explanation...and even then, wouldn't there still be some hesitation??
Another unrealistic aspect was when Wendy was trying to choose between the two men in her life. This is what she said: The worst part of it was that I don't know if I could even choose if I wanted to. They both brought so much to the table and I was more confused than ever. At this point in the novel, Wendy barely even knows Matt. They only had one date and all they did was make out and talked about cheating on Brandt and keeping their relationship a secret. As a reader, I did not witness any real relationship building between Wendy and Matt at this point. So, I don't get why she is struggling so much.
The writing...oh my...I don't want to be a book-basher and my review, so far, seems like I am being one. I hope that if the author reads this review, she will take it as constructive criticism and try to become a better writer. I do not intend to offend anyone or to be known as a book-basher. But, the writing in this novel is very weak. There are inconsistencies in tense, many errors in sentence structure, typos, the conversations seem forced, and there are not enough contractions used during the conversations. There were so many obvious mistakes that I found myself shaking my head a lot throughout reading this book. The writing was the major contributing factor to me not enjoying Dancing with Death, as it was constantly jarring me out of the story.
I'm sorry and I feel that I may have been a bit harsh in this review, but I actually held back quite a bit. I sincerely hope that the author can take constructive criticism and move forward. I will say that I love the cover. Also, I was able to finish the novel, so there was some level of interest on my part.
This review also published on SIK Book Reviews
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