Fields of Elysium (Fields of Elysium, #1) by A.B. Whelan

May 11, 2013 Jackie - Fire & Ice Book Reviews rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: ebooks, genre-romance, genre-fantisy, genre-fiction, read-more-than-once, z-page-turner, quick-easy-read, wrote-a-review, indie-authors

I was given a copy of this book to read and review. I would like to say thanks to the author, and the group where I found this book. This amazing book drew me in, and didn't let go.

Molly's family moves to Los Angeles, where in school she is known as the new girl. After school one day She takes her dog Pandora, for a hike in the forest. Her dog leads her to a cavern, where she finds a worm hole. She goes threw and finds something that will change her life forever.

This book was an amazing read. I ...more

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Apr 29, 2013 Aimee (Getting Your Read On) rated it it was ok

I have a deep respect for authors. Writing is a labor of love, I think. Every book from every sort of author takes courage. You write something that you have labored hours and hours over and set it before the world to read. Readers always have an opinion. Not all readers agree. I hope you will understand this in my review of this book today.

For me, this book was tough to get through. I didn't feel any emotional connections with the characters. I liked the characters well enough, I just didn't co ...more

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Jan 28, 2013 Raina {The LUV'NV} rated it liked it

Shelves: young-adult, fantasy, blog-tour

Imaginative and vivid, Fields of Elysium revolves around Molly Bennett, a somewhat lonely teen, who stumbles upon a wormhole into another world. Like a parallel universe, Arkana resembles Earth and is inhabited by humans. Only its infinitely more beautiful, wild, and technologically advanced and led by a theocratic government.

When Molly meets a group of boys, particularly the mysterious Victor, she becomes addicted to visiting their world and withdraws from her own. Then she learns ...more

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Nov 26, 2012 Sara Bree High rated it it was amazing

Shelves: read-yatr, review-complete

Fields of Elysium
By A.B. Whelan
Reviewed by S. Bree High YATR

I want to travel to new earth too! I feel like maybe I need to stomp my foot and pout. If I did do you think I could get my way. I am not so sure but let me tell you the place I visited while reading this lovely gem of a book, amazing. There were religious tones in the book that added to it, the book was not a book about god or faith in general. It allowed you to read the story and decide what you thought. I enjoyed that it allowed me t Fields of Elysium
By A.B. Whelan
Reviewed by S. Bree High YATR

I want to travel to new earth too! I feel like maybe I need to stomp my foot and pout. If I did do you think I could get my way. I am not so sure but let me tell you the place I visited while reading this lovely gem of a book, amazing. There were religious tones in the book that added to it, the book was not a book about god or faith in general. It allowed you to read the story and decide what you thought. I enjoyed that it allowed me to make up my own mind. It gave me choices. I was able to see the good and bad on all sides.
California is where we start our journey when our transplant moves there with her family from Hopewell New Jersey. Molly was a different character. She seemed a bit backward to me and unsure of who she is and what she wants. Sheltered quite a bit, her Dad had made her wear a GPS watch until recently. (Due to the Lindbergh baby kidnapping - you younger folks Google it) Her parents had the ideal marriage and relationship. They were attentive and loving; even though a tad bit on the overprotective. I think she was itching for some freedom and adventure and she found it. Oh boy did she find it!
Victor Sorren, I say his name and I get goose bumps like a school girl. He is brooding, quiet and proud. He is full of anger and hurt. He is not from earth. You like how I slipped that in really fast huh? LOL! I enjoyed watching Victor develop in the story, learning about him and his life. He seems so much more than a pretty face. He is a friend who will fight for you, stand up and be there. I loved that about him, the honorable gentleman who has revenge in his veins. This story is full of characters. We have Weston and Ann, and Camille. The cast of characters create the quilt of Molly’s very different life. Molly stumbles upon something that seriously changes her life while hiking one day. I mean different literally. Time moves differently and one trip thru a cave transports her to another place. Now if this life changing adventure is for the best or worst, many times in the book I questioned it. Can secrets be kept? Can the place be real? Let me pinch myself, yep I felt that! This book had several different elements going on. One that struck a major cord with me is the idea of peace? It really takes actions as hole across the board, shakes them out and throws them down at face value. Interesting! Earth and Arkana are so different and yet similar. I expected a good love story with a paranormal twist. I got so much more. I think you should take the chance and read it. Let this book take you on the adventure, fall in love. I am really ready for the second book. I want to know what happens next. Ok well I have to run, my Cocktoopus happens to be cooking in the oven. LOL!

I received a copy of this book for honest review ...more

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May 09, 2019 Kayla Krantz rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, romance, paranormal, indie-authors, ya, suspense, audiobook, audiobookboom

Life is never easy as the new girl, and for Molly, this is as true of a statement as any. After becoming an outcast in her new town, she goes for a walk and discovers a secret portal leading to another world. She is fascinated and shellshocked, even more so when she discovers that she fits in better on the other side…even though it is illegal for her to be there. Swept up in her feelings for a boy named Victor, she throws caution to the wind and continues to slip into the portal.

Very wonderful w ...more

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Apr 06, 2013 Kitty rated it did not like it

I suspected from the beginning the writer's first language was not English, as the writing is stilted and appears as if it was written by a middle or high school student. The characters are completely unbelievable simply because of their speech patterns. The lack of contractions is jarring and made each character seem robotic and unable to be separated from the other characters.
Also, there seemed to be little action in moving the plot forward. It just sort of dragged on without any great excite ...more

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Jun 19, 2015 Kelsey rated it really liked it

Shelves: first-reads

-I won this book through a goodreads first win-

The concept of Arkana is what really dragged me right into this story. A wormhole that transports a person into another world. A world that is deemed to be more peaceful, a place where nature and people can live in harmony. A world that actually seems more advanced and more beautiful then that of Earth. After watching a show called Starcrossed on the CW that was cancelled after one season I was eager to find a book that could have some similar patte -I won this book through a goodreads first win-

The concept of Arkana is what really dragged me right into this story. A wormhole that transports a person into another world. A world that is deemed to be more peaceful, a place where nature and people can live in harmony. A world that actually seems more advanced and more beautiful then that of Earth. After watching a show called Starcrossed on the CW that was cancelled after one season I was eager to find a book that could have some similar pattern. Now, this story wasn't at all like Starcrossed except for the fact that in some ways Arkana has 'aliens.' if that's what one wants to call them, however, it's not exactly clear if they really are all 'aliens' ..as some are crossbreeds, and some are arkanians, and some are human. As it'd just be crazy if Molly aka the main character was the first to find this place.

So. Yes, this plot was such a wonderful idea. It was very promising. I loved the world. I love the story line. I loved the moment of Molly meeting Weston and then being enveloped into this Arkana world. The way the author writes about this world is just wonderful. I found it entertaining how Victor didn't trust her at first and then he realized she wasn't one of the bad humans.

I, however, if I must admit did find myself rather disappointed in the development of Molly and Victor. At first I liked the set-up and how he didn't trust her at first, how she had to in ways win over his trust. I saw Molly's obsession with him at first as just a school girl crush. I was expecting to see more of an outline of them working together to build-up to a romance. Instead what I found disappointing was that he just said he was watching her, and then, his views on her changed. Their romance just happened too fast for me to find it too believable. Also, a lot of times the way they spoke to each other was hard for me to find believable as well. I actually almost liked the sideline romance of Ann and Weston better.

As much as Victor and Molly's romance may have disappointed me it didn't take away from the actual story for me. As I mentioned I loved Arkana. I loved learning about the lighteaters, and how Arkana came about. I loved seeing all this newer technology in the story. I loved watching Victor compete in the games against Weston and winning, except the 'for you molly.' was quite cheesy. I thought it'd be a nice tough if it was for her when I was reading it, but something that would have been mentioned later on and him telling her that she'd been his motivation.

I also adored Molly's family. Her dad was so endearing and I loved her interactions with her brother Nick. Her family aspect seemed so real and I loved that they were included in the book. I also loved seeing her friends inside the story. Of course, I wouldn't consider them 'real' friends, but they were nice to see and all. Even with her one friend not being nice to her all the time it was always good to see Molly embrace her with a warm heart. I've always said sometimes the not so nice people are dealing with a lot more then one can even imagine and her one friend was a prime example of this.

What I didn't like as I mentioned was a bit of Molly and Victor's romance and how it was made out. I still liked them, a part of me couldn't help but to like them. I also struggled with the ex-boyfriend, but I know he was made not to like. Lastly, was the whole superpowers thing coming into play so randomly at the ending. Victor being able to erase memories just made me cringe. It just seemed so sudden, out of place, and then, almost just a convenient to ditch the ex-boyfriend. That and Molly having him take care of her friend at the ending also irritated me as I really felt she was risking WAY TOO much and should have called the ambulance instead. Also, I wonder how her friend thinks she lost the baby? Or, what Chris thinks as the baby won't be mentioned again? I don't know. I think I'll get used to the memory erasing later on though. At some parts it felt as if the book was a longer read, but not much happened, with as many pages as there were.

As much as some parts made me cringe I still enjoyed the book for the most part. I still very much plan on reading the rest of the series as I'd like to see where these characters head next. A reason I may have struggled with this story is... well, I wasn't a huge Twilight fan. And, I saw similarities, but I know the author has mentioned Twilight before as inspirations. I usually don't give Twilight similar books a try, but the plot line just made me want to grab a hold of these and I'm still glad I did. I really could see these books becoming a movie someday, as well. I'd def. pay to see them. I'd love to see the Arkana world come to life.

I would recommend these books to others without a doubt. I'd recommend them to people that love fantasy novels with some romance thrown in there. Anybody that liked Twilight would devour these books as well.

4/5 for my love of Arkana. ...more

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Jan 18, 2013 Mickey rated it really liked it

Fields of Elysium is actually my first sci fi book. I really enjoyed the experience of reading this book and would like to start by thanking the author, A.B.Whelan, for taking me on this adventure with her.
This book was a really easy and enjoyable read for me. I actually got through it in 1 / 2 days.

WARNING! SPOILERS FROM NOW ONWARDS

Before i go any further i would like to highlight the fact that these are just MY views which people don't have to agree with and this is MY interpretation on the st ...more

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Aug 17, 2013 Jessica Del Fuoco rated it really liked it

I received a copy of Fields of Elysium, by A.B. Whelan in exchange for an honest review.

****PLEASE NOTE THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS*****

Molly Bennett is a small town girl from Hopewell, NJ who was suddenly uprooted by her parents to Los Angeles, CA in the middle of her high school career. She has some trouble adapting to her new home
and school, all with dealing with an overbearing/overprotective dad. While taking walk with her dog, Molly comes across small cavern that suddenly transports ...more

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Dec 04, 2012 Jamie rated it really liked it

Shelves: favorites, amazing-romance, assassins-hunters-or-warriors, strange-abilities, other, magic

Rating: 3.5- 4 stars

This book actually wasn't as good as I thought it was going to be, which is why I removed a star. Don't get me wrong, I still really liked it. (:

The Story:
The story is about a girl named Molly, who moves to a new place and then stumbles across an alternate universe when chasing her dog into a cave. She meets Victor and a whole bunch of other people who dress and act completely differently from the way they do on Earth. She tries to find out more, but they don't trust her. Vic Rating: 3.5- 4 stars

This book actually wasn't as good as I thought it was going to be, which is why I removed a star. Don't get me wrong, I still really liked it. (:

The Story:
The story is about a girl named Molly, who moves to a new place and then stumbles across an alternate universe when chasing her dog into a cave. She meets Victor and a whole bunch of other people who dress and act completely differently from the way they do on Earth. She tries to find out more, but they don't trust her. Victor and the guys seem like they hate her at first, but they watch her and trust her eventually. However, Molly is having trouble at home with school, her parents, and her new friends. Add, Victor to the mix, and she has crazy mood swings. Shit happens, things go wrong, and crazy stuff is revealed. Read to find out what. ;p

Thoughts:
Let me start off with the things I didn't like, so we can rip the band-aid off and end this review on a good note with the things I did like. So, I did not like the way the heroine was speaking, as in her thoughts and the way they were written. I mean, there were some insightful things every now and then, but the word 'I' in the beginning of the sentence was becoming too repetitive. The writing didn't flow that smoothly. I found myself skimming over most of the parts and going to the dialogue. Even the dialogue was kind of weird.

Also, time-travel and parallel universes aren't really my thing. Like, I don't like going into the future or onto a different place where the world we know, has changed. I like historical romance and completely different worlds that have no relation to Earth. I can deal with that. I don't really like star-crossed lovers either. It wasn't that noticeable in this book, but I'm just explaining why i wasn't really impressed as I thought I would be.

I liked the way Molly described the way she felt when she was embarrassed though because I have felt that way once or twice. Also, I liked the creative ideas placed into Arkana, because they were completely different from Earth, and that amazed me. The intense passion and attraction and emotions that Victor and Molly felt were just…wow. Can I get me a sexy, driven, compassionate, guy like Victor? I loved Victor. He was so sweet. Victor and Molly's relationship made me jealous for a bit. I mean, yeah, the way he treated her in the beginning was weird, but I understood why because he explains later.

Plus, the way he kicked Adam's ass? TWICE? Ugh, hot.

Haha, if you're into this kind of thing, go for it. I really liked it, and I would recommend it to people who like alternate universes and things like that. (: ...more

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Feb 18, 2014 Danica Seavoy rated it did not like it

Shelves: urban-fantasy, sci-fi, young-adult

When I saw the cover I thought, simple and GORGEOUS--so I read the blurb. YES I wanted to read this, it sounded like a really cool concept.

This was just not a good reader experience for me.

The writing felt choppy, and the characters made no sense to me. Their dialogue reminded me of when I have conversations with myself in the mirror: they didn't feel like they had different dynamics in their speech. To me it sounded like it was always the same person talking.

The MC, Molly, sees Victor for the When I saw the cover I thought, simple and GORGEOUS--so I read the blurb. YES I wanted to read this, it sounded like a really cool concept.

This was just not a good reader experience for me.

The writing felt choppy, and the characters made no sense to me. Their dialogue reminded me of when I have conversations with myself in the mirror: they didn't feel like they had different dynamics in their speech. To me it sounded like it was always the same person talking.

The MC, Molly, sees Victor for the first time and he's hostile and suspicious and for some reason she instaloves him? And throughout most of the book he's mean and she's all "I'm madly in love with him, and his aversion to me isn't a big deal, he's just a little resistant." What?

And Molly's "friends" at her high school: so Alexa you could consider a friend, since she actually talks friendly with Molly. But Camille (Camilla? I don't even remember her name) was never nice to her and out of nowhere she spills her heart out to Molly, then goes back to being a b**** to her? And Chris is the biggest douche and doesn't treat her well! I don't understand why she was friends with them, or why they were in the story at all.

And every fiber of Victor's being HATED Molly and then at the drop of a hat he's like, "I'm so in love with you, too, but I'm supposed to hate you so I can't be with you but wait! I lied let's make this work because you're it for me."

No one's actions made any sense!

And throughout the story there would be random tangents, like more significance would be put on a situation that didn't actually matter at all. Some events happened at random and I'd think, "Where the heck did that come from and why did that just happen?"

And honestly, I still don't know what the plot was supposed to be . . . Was it just Molly getting Victor to love her? Because there didn't really seem to be a problem that needed a resolution, and I found myself wondering "What's the point of this story?" a lot.

Which KILLED ME because I really wanted to love this book!

I will say this: the setting is completely original and the world-building of Arkana went well. I did like the uniqueness of the place and I felt transported there myself. The only problem was that nothing happened once I was there.

I feel really bad that I didn't have a good experience with this story, and it hurts me to give any book such a low rating. BUT some stories aren't for everyone.

1/5 stars ...more

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Sep 29, 2013 Vonnie rated it liked it

The premise of this book caught my attention. I enjoy reading about time travel and parallel worlds. Fields of Elysium was an interesting book that was easy to read, though it was not my favorite.

There were some positive aspects about this book. First, I liked the whole idea of how the alternate world Arkana had different technology and everything was environmental friendly. Reading the descriptions of this world left me awed and only made me wish that our world had the same things. Next, I lik ...more

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Jul 02, 2013 Mlpmom (Book Reviewer) rated it really liked it

Shelves: kindle-books, author-request

Fields of Elysium is one of those books that completely takes you by surprise with how involved and wrapped up in it you become. I never expected to love this as much as I did nor to become so engrossed in the story that I would have to sit down and read it all in one sitting simply because I had to know how it all played out.

I really can't even name one thing that I loved about it or that made it stand out so much other than to say that it was just so well written with some pretty great charact ...more

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May 06, 2013 Sheila rated it really liked it

Shelves: coming-of-age, cultural, spiritual, relationships, romance, suspense, current_issues, paranormal, scifi-fantasy, young-adult

Moving cross-country can feel a bit like moving between worlds, but the narrator of this novel finds herself accidentally transported through a haze of curious lights after the move, and she’s not in LA anymore. Soon Molly’s falling for a boy who might be an alien. Her father’s only just released her from GPS tracking, which causes her to wonder, what will he think? And her new earth-friends are too Hollywood beautiful with their heads in the clouds to be much help.

Add the Lindbergh baby, bullyi ...more

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Oct 20, 2013 Yana rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorites

The Fields of Elysium was a great read once I allowed myself to let go and get absorbed into the characters lives and events.

Some people seem to be having trouble suspending disbelief long enough to enjoy it. If you can do this you will fall in-love with the series. I did.

At first I wasn't sure how I felt about the religious tones, being that I am not religious in the slighest, but once I accepted that this was a sci-fi fantasy novel, I fell inlove with the characters and with Arkana.

Once I let ...more

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Aug 08, 2015 Faye rated it really liked it

Isn't the cover pretty?

Fields of Elysium is the story of Molly who moves to Los Angeles and her adventure begins when she stumbles upon a wormhole that leads her to another world. In her adevnture she doesn't only discovers secrets but love as well.

I gave it 4 stars because I still couldn't connect to the characters especially Molly. Still, the concept of this story was interesting and a page turner. I loved the twists of this story and there seems to be more.

It's kind of funny because I almost ...more

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Jun 08, 2013 Paty rated it really liked it · review of another edition

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review

Imagine going for a regular hike with your beloved companion animal and stumbling upon a portal to a another world. That is exactly what happens to Molly and she meets a group of teens from another planet that have disdain for all Terrakas(people from Earth). This book has the right amount of adventure, plot mysteries, and of course the important dash of romance. It was so entertaining and easy to read that I found myself wishing I h ...more

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Aug 23, 2013 Marilyn rated it liked it

Shelves: 2013

The sci-fi elements of this story are excellent. As the heroine travels between worlds and meets the inhabitants of Elysium the story is exciting and the descriptions are eloquent.
The dialog and characterizations in the everyday world are a bit stilted and distract from the main plot.
Overall the story was entertaining and the sci-fi aspects are quite unique.
Thank you for allowing me to read it :)

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Sep 21, 2013 Nathalie rated it it was amazing

Need book two ASAP!!

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May 08, 2013 Shayna Varadeaux rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: lop-r2r-read, cinco-de-mayo-anything-goes

A junior in high school, Molly Bennett has moved across the country from New Jersey to Los Angeles and her first week at Beverly Hills High left much to be desired. She was nonexistent in her new surroundings. Her first week was excruciatingly lonely but the weekend would give her a break.
She's not too happy with her parents for uprooting her from her friends even if her dad did try to make it better with an Audi. It didn't make everything better but it gave Molly hope that things wouldn't be th A junior in high school, Molly Bennett has moved across the country from New Jersey to Los Angeles and her first week at Beverly Hills High left much to be desired. She was nonexistent in her new surroundings. Her first week was excruciatingly lonely but the weekend would give her a break.
She's not too happy with her parents for uprooting her from her friends even if her dad did try to make it better with an Audi. It didn't make everything better but it gave Molly hope that things wouldn't be that bad here.
Molly stumbles upon a wormhole and finds herself on Arkana during a hike with her dog Pandora. She meets some guys out on a birthday celebration slash hunt and is mesmerized by one named Victor Sorren. She spends the day with them and Weston is the one who shows interest and he's Victor's best friend. After spending the day with them she promises to return the following day. She keeps her discovery a secret for now. Not knowing what the consequences could be if she told anyone. She returns to Arkana as promised but this time it's just her and Weston. They go to Weston's house where she asks questions and tries to figure everything out. But soon finds out they know all about her kind. Weston sends her back after Victor protests her very presence in Arkana. So Molly leaves Arkana without her curiosity being satisfied. Back to BHHS where she suddenly has friends and a guy who seems interested. The most popular too. Everything seems like it just might be getting better and maybe even bearable without Arkana and Victor..... but she can't shake her memories of Victor. He infiltrates her dreams and day dreams.
She is seeing him everywhere. She's convinced she's losing it and fatigued but they are destined to be a part of each others worlds. It feels so meant to be but so very dangerous.... They have so much to overcome. Internally and in general.....

This was a good read and it definitely was a new thing for me. I think it's more SciFi than anything I have read. I have to admit that I lost interest a couple times in the current activity and not the plot. I always wanted to know what happened next with Molly though. But by midway I really couldn't read fast enough but man before that I thought I was going to give up! I am definitely glad I didn't!!!
AND..... while Victor's character is intriguing I am not crazy about the description of his appearance he seems different when I imagine him ;) But before the book is over he is described as my mind saw him.... nice!

(view spoiler)[text>

Molly is not a happy camper between a move across country and a nosy, quick friend making little brother and virtual invisibility at school she's out to clear her mind on a Saturday hike. As she walks she's recapping the removal of the GPS she wore most of her life ,which immediately has me wondering. Her dad took it off of her when they moved. She's now free but wanted to assure him that she's trustworthy.
It's a little weird that Molly gets the master bedroom upstairs while everyone else's rooms are downstairs.
Anyway. On her hike with her dog Pandora at the observatory her dog spots a squirrel and the chase is on.
She discovers a worm hole or portal of some sort in a cave that leads her to Arkana an alternate planet of civilized and technologically advanced humans. She meets Weston and he's quick to invite her to go with them to hang out. They are friends out celebrating his birthday. Once Molly locks eyes with Weston's best friend everything fades away. Molly is lost in Victor Sorren. He seems so put off by her and Weston is a real flirt. She likes Weston alright but her thoughts keep taking her back to Victor. Confused as ever and taking in some if this alternate world Molly has a fun day with them until Pandora gets into trouble and Molly has to save her dog and then Victor and Weston have to save Molly. Victor carries her back to camp after her adventurously near tragic walk with Weston. They cook the weirdly named cocktoopus which Weston killed with a bow and arrow then ate and danced and then it was time to go. They parted ways after Weston invited her to come back and see him the next day. But after she's back in L.A. she figures out it's not just time difference but five Arkana days make one L.A. day. So she's back in a few hours her time and the next day theirs. So Molly tells Weston about her being from a different place and coming through the portal. She takes him through to her side and once she mentions earth he flips out and is hurriedly ready to get back to Arkana. He invites Molly to his house to get changed out of wet clothes and answer some of her questions. She has a great view of this world in Weston's Araneavi (or vehicle that flies..... )
She's absorbing all of the overload of visuals and the info her peppering of questions brings. Then she gets to Weston's humongous home and changes into a dress. She pretty much knows now that it's illegal for Weston to be on Earth and for her to be on Arkana. They are humans with a second chance they don't damage their planet. Victor nearly kills her for being on Arkana at Weston's house she meets Ann a very friendly Arkanian girl. Weston had forgot a previous engagement and he has to leave her with an angry Victor who makes her promise not to return and not to ever speak of Arkana or the Sacred Passage to anyone! She reluctantly agrees and has to go back to the meadow escorted by Victor on his Ducati but not as in Earth Ducati but a flying motorcycle. She is feeling awkward pressed up against someone who clearly hates her. But she's enjoying being close to him anyway. He leaves her at the portal and in her heartbroken state of Arkanian grief she swears she sees Victor but also thinks she's simply having delusions. She is crying uncontrollably and hurt beyond belief and with no answers to her questions of why. She is quick to get upstairs to the safety of her bedroom with her puffy swollen eyes. Her parents are curious about the way she is acting. She actually snaps at them. Her mom convinces her dad that she will be fine. She dreams of Arkana and of Victor.
Molly is utterly and hopelessly distracted by thoughts and memories and unanswered questions. She's suddenly befriended by the most popular kids at school and thinks she might be able to find happiness. But it's short lived when she can't get Victor out of her mind. She's so depressed she pushes her newfound friends away and starts slacking in her schoolwork. Her dad takes away her phone her computer her SciFi books she's become obsessed with. She isn't hardly sleeping and doesn't get the sleep she needs after hatching a plan to study on Arkana to make up time. She is actually pulling through on making up her grades and getting her schoolwork caught up and up to par. She should have caught up on sleep too. Her Mom is calling her downstairs and she's reading and she swears she sees Victor outside of her window. She's barking at her mom that she will be there in a sec but gets up too fast to look out the window for her weak sleep deprived state. And passes out. When she regains consciousness she sees blood on the carpet and on the corner of her desk. There's a pain on her forehead she wipes her hand on and pulls her blood covered hand back meanwhile her mother comes to her room screams and calls 911 while trying to comfort Molly. Her dad runs home apparently and they go the hospital in an ambulance. She gets stitches and meds and is told to get rest. Her parents go home to eat and change and her mom says she will be back soon. While Molly is mortified by her disfigured face she's also mesmerized by the voice she hears. Victor is there and says he's there to help her he gives her a salve to apply to heal faster And a gift from Weston along with the news she's been deemed trustworthy and asked back to Arkana.
When she returns she's a part of a hunt and gets snatched on a potty break in the jungle by a huge hairy monkeyish creature. And nearly dies! Saved again by Victor she is starting to realize she loves him. She's back home and on her way to Alexa's unsure of what the future holds and if she will get to go back to Arkana after the hunting debacle.
She quickly decides to leave Alexa's house because of the boys and alcohol. Almost gets into it with her dad and goes off to bed.
The next week passes in disappointed gloom. She's scared Victor will never come as he said he would
She's all but crushed when she finds her stuff returned to her on her balcony. Now resigned that she may never see Victor again she continues on with life on Earth. She divulges a secret about her writing songs and playing guitar to Camilla after Camilla let's her feelings for Chris come out. Worst mistake ever! She has all week to ready herself for the presentation of her song in front of the entire class. She closes her eyes and sings Wicked Game by Chris Issak which made me laugh! That night she's in her room and just as she decides to open the window she gets hot with a rock meant for her window and sees Victor! He says he wants her to come to Arkana and she's excited. She's been invited by Weston to the Ecmentur Games a show of strength and recognition for the winner. Weston is entered of course but so is Victor. Anyway so this part was way cool and you will just have to read it for yourself! So Molly told Victor she wanted to go to the village to thank Ulka and he says yes but after the games. Weston is being a brat and accuses Victor of trying to take things from him which pisses Molly off! Good for Molly. Also red eyed ruby albino girl was cool. Molly got a ring from her after the games. Just thinks that was important to share. So Molly leaves to the Village and has a great short sweet convo with Ulka and then is whisked away by Victor. It's just the two of them now. He takes her to a place he prepared for them and they eat and talk and understand each other a little better and the dance and oh baby he is finding it harder and harder to hate the fact that she's a human. There's an almost kiss and professions and explanations of why they cannot be together but clearly its what they both want. They go to get his translation chip fixed and she sees and meets the Motleys.
On his way to take her home they run into an invisible force field and have to land the Ducati at a castle that looks to be abandoned. But upon further inspection it holds the prophet and they have to stay the night. He's Leary having her around the prophet but they have adjoining rooms. They have the best emotion wrenching conversation yet and she tells him she loves him but he needs to think.... he poured his heart out too though. Then as Molly has her rejection breakdown the Prophet comes to talk to her and explains why Victor needs to be a Sentinel and lead the Sentinels against the Terrakas. The Prophet is a HUMAN and he's got a hell of a tale to tell Molly. And oh my! What a whopper!! But umm Yea Victor has a war with himself and the truth and wow! So Molly's at home and there's a Christmas party she's going to go to and it's that evening but after a call from her, seems like forever since she's even thought about him, ex boyfriend she is a bit perturbed. At school she's dumbfounded when she walks out and faces Adam Mr. Ex Boyfriend. He's not getting the hint and getting grabby and soon a bit rough with her. But when he goes too far the most beautiful voice in the world interrupted his angry tirade. Victor.... gorgeous as my imagination driving my favorite car and saving the day! And so they work out their junk and he takes her to Ulka to get ready for the party. She's breathtaking and they are met in the meadow by Weston and Ann and apologies are made and they are on their way. On the Earth side they run into creepy ex Adam who read the cave diary and is threatening exposure but Victor has abilities that make this a non issue. So finally they are at the party and Molly goes to find Camilla and finds her in a bad way in the bathroom. She has to ask a whole hell of a lot of Victor to make it all right and as she's cleaning up the mess.... her own father walks in!!!!!!!!
He's freaked and gets zapped cause he's not ready to know about Arkana. Things settle for now and it's New Year's Eve almost time for Victor to start Sentinel Academy. New journey hopeful future. Happy ending.... for now........ (hide spoiler)] ...more

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Oct 29, 2013 Marla rated it liked it

Shelves: paranormal, fantasy, religion, young-adult, with-reservations, series, romance, science-fiction, ebook, challenged

3.5 stars. I've been on a mythology trend, so I was happy that the story is set on earth and another planet, Arkana, linked by a wormhole/gate, rather than another journey into Hades. I found the language didn't flow and didn't sound like teenagers, but maybe the author was trying to demonstrate the lost in translation from a different culture/world/language. It wasn't a hindrance but it was a little stilted and a useful literary device for a foreign author.

I did not understand the necessity of ...more

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Nov 03, 2019 Violet Stone rated it it was ok · review of another edition

What an...interesting book.

Full review to come

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Dec 06, 2012 Asuka0278 rated it really liked it

Shelves: i-own-it, favorites, young-adult, fantasy-sci-fi, on-my-kindle

First I want to say that I was offered a free copy of this book for review by the author. THANK-YOU!!! :)

OK I LOVE LOVE LOVE the whole premise and idea behind this book. I really do. The whole idea of another almost "parallel" earth is exciting. And, it was a nice change from the typical young adult vampires and werewolves. (BLEH) I found Molly to be a very interesting person. I think she has a lot of potential to be amazing. She's a typical, confused-about-life teenager and I enjoyed watching a First I want to say that I was offered a free copy of this book for review by the author. THANK-YOU!!! :)

OK I LOVE LOVE LOVE the whole premise and idea behind this book. I really do. The whole idea of another almost "parallel" earth is exciting. And, it was a nice change from the typical young adult vampires and werewolves. (BLEH) I found Molly to be a very interesting person. I think she has a lot of potential to be amazing. She's a typical, confused-about-life teenager and I enjoyed watching as her character grew throughout the book. How she truly broke away and discovered who she was. This was good considering I thought her relationship with her parents was.....REALLY ODD, to say the least. (more on that later) I liked Victor's character, and once you discover what exactly motivated him to be the way he is in the beginning of the book, his character snaps into place. I liked the relationship dynamic between the two of them, especially since for a change their relationship is complicated and it wasn't total complete head over heels in love the second they laid eyes on each other. Yes, they have an attraction, but it takes them time to work it out and find how they fit together. I've already recommended the book to other people because I enjoyed it so much.

Now for the things I didn't like. There were several things that did bother me. Some of it was editing. I had an e-copy of the book and it just seemed like there were several misspellings or places where you had to read the sentence to figure out which word was originally supposed to be in the sentence. There were some places where things seemed to happen choppily and I'm not sure if it was a writing flaw or an editing flaw. The scene where Molly stands up too fast and passes out was, odd. I had to re-read the passage several times before I could figure out what the hell just happened. Molly seemed to know and apparently she hit her head on her desk hard enough to warrant an overnight stay at a hospital? I think that was a bit extreme if not unrealistic. Like I said it was a bit...weird. Now for Molly's parents. I'm sorry they were extremely overbearing and just downright ODD. I mean really, really odd. One minute the dad was a control freak and the next he was trying to give Molly more responsibility and freedom but thn he'd turn around and reign her in again. And a GPS watch she's worn for her entire life? Sorry that's pushing it towards psychotic levels. I'm a mom and I GET that fear that something could happen to your kids, really I do. In fact I take medication to keep my anxiety under control. However, I find the idea of strapping a GPS watch to your child's arm extreme. Like really extreme. And then one moment her mom is all "I was a teenage girl once" and within the next minute just either almost a non-existent character or as controlling as Molly's dad. Also somehow this woman works a fulltime job and is able to make home cooked, organic, from-scratch meals for EVERY meal. I'm a stay-at-home mom and I don't even have time to do that!! I'm not talking about like PB&J for lunch I'm talking like full blown fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy and vegetables and salad and even a homemade dessert at f-ing LUNCH TIME. EVERY DAY. Possibly except for when Molly's in school. I'm trying to figure out if her mom has an alter-ego or a twin or has a TARDIS. And, again her dad is just kind of weird and to be honest creeps me out a bit.

Despite the things I didn't like about the book (which in retrospect are nitpicky things that bug the crap out of ME.) They are rather minor parts of the book. The rest of the book however, and the whole idea of the other world and the plot itself were fantastic. Yes, read this book, but be warned you might find some parts of it (basically everything that happens between Molly and her parents and most everything else on our Earth) to be more like odd filler. The rest is refreshing and fantastically brilliant. :) ...more

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Apr 29, 2013 Amber Hodges rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: for-review, own, ebook, finished-tbr-month-list

The first thing that drew me to this book was the cover, I found it to be completely beautiful and wanted to know more about the story. I didn't find the story to go along with the cover, but at the same time the story had be interested. My poor TBR pile is so huge, I ended up never being able to get around to it. I was asked to do a review by the author and I knew it was time that I finally get around to it.

Molly chases after her dog that ends up finding a secret portal between two worlds. When The first thing that drew me to this book was the cover, I found it to be completely beautiful and wanted to know more about the story. I didn't find the story to go along with the cover, but at the same time the story had be interested. My poor TBR pile is so huge, I ended up never being able to get around to it. I was asked to do a review by the author and I knew it was time that I finally get around to it.

Molly chases after her dog that ends up finding a secret portal between two worlds. When she gets to the other side she runs into Weston, Victor, and a couple other guys on a birthday hike. She doesn't know where she is and she is confused but she enjoys her time while she is there. Little does she know at the time what she really did discover. One thing she knows is even after she goes back to the portal, she can't get Victor out of her mind. No matter how hostile and rude he acts towards her, she is pulled towards him anyway. Now the question is, what does she need to do to see him again?

This is the first book that I have read that deals with a planet hop in the story. The worlds are similar but very different at the same time. Arkana is very highly advanced and Molly can't help but think what things could change on her world with what she discovered, but she made a promise to not expose the world and she sticks to it. I have read portals between faerie worlds and such, but this one is completely different. I enjoyed it very much and found myself curious what the author was going to throw at me next.

Molly is a character that I liked very much. She was bold at times, but when she was by herself she had her thoughts consume her. I like how no matter what she never gave up on what she wanted, she held onto it even when she knew it wasn't good for her heart and her mind, she held on anyway. She finds friends both in her new town of Los Angeles as well as on Arkana. She is very different from both sets, but yet she found a spot where she belongs. She is a strong willed character with a big heart full of compassion. She isn't your typical annoying teenage girl that you seem to run into in most books.

Victor was one that captivates you. His actions draw you in and make you wonder what he hates about Molly so much. As the walls come down and you get to know him, you can't help but want to run up to him and give him a hug. He can be surly and distant, but you learn why and you can't help but like him as a character. When he finally starts doing things for himself and deciding that he may have more room within him than he though, it is a moment where you want to raise your fist in the air for him. He is a wonderful character with a bigger heart than you would have guessed when you first started following him.

I loved the world and the author does a great job of giving us enough detail to picture everything as it goes. Even though everything is all advanced and animals are different, you are able to see all of it your head without any cloudiness. It is as clear as if you had it right in front of you.

There are parts in the story where you don't know what things would really work, how aging works on either planet, but those are minor parts to the story that have you confused. The story was rather long and part of it was rather winded but it is still very enjoyable. The last few chapters get thrown towards you and a lot of information comes at you all at once. You get to spend a little time wrapping your head around it, but it wasn't too much that caused too much stress, just made you have to do a little thinking.

This story was great and I can't wait to get more of Victor and Molly. The romance is very believable and wasn't one of those typical love at first sight things. Yes, there is an instant connection that both can't deny, but they weren't dating the next day, the romance blossoms throughout the pages in a way that makes you bite your nails as you keep reading to know more. A.B. Whelan has made a fan of me and I know I will be reading the rest of the series for sure. ...more

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Feb 25, 2013 CCAM&GZM rated it really liked it

„But if young hearts didn’t believe in miracles anymore, then all is lost.”

If you have a romantic nature and an imagination that carries you through fantasy worlds then you will like Fields of Elysium. If you are not, there are still big chances that you'll like the book. This is because you will like for sure the main characters, the author’s ideas and style.

The main characters grow on the reader's heart as they and also the story evolve. Molly is a great example for all young girls and was a
„But if young hearts didn’t believe in miracles anymore, then all is lost.”

If you have a romantic nature and an imagination that carries you through fantasy worlds then you will like Fields of Elysium. If you are not, there are still big chances that you'll like the book. This is because you will like for sure the main characters, the author’s ideas and style.

The main characters grow on the reader's heart as they and also the story evolve. Molly is a great example for all young girls and was a pleasure to watch her thoughts and judgment. Victor? Victor tries to find out how he feels and what to do. Being the type for whom duty and honor are above of all it will be even harder to him to make a decision. He certainly has all the trumps to become the readers' new favorite.

„He was a thrilling, mystical novel I found hard to put down, or better, impossible not to finish.”

Secondary characters could have been more developed. Agreeable or not, I certainly wanted to know more about why and how they change. Weston, for example, on the one hand can be considered at one point to be a bit superficial and I think that was not the intention, and on the other hand I think it should be worth it to witness how he will get "to see the forest despite the trees." Other characters seem hasty introduced and a greater motivation for them would have been welcome.

The plot is a love story. The story earns more points by sharing Molly’s thoughts and feelings which is the way used by the author to gently introduce many important aspects of human nature, religion, about how children are influenced by their parents, about their changes: caring, growing up - leaving the nest. I think every youngster goes (or should it go?) through them.

„But as my love for Victor had grown, I noticed how I’d become emotionally detached from my father. Maybe there was not enough room in my heart for them both.”

Do not worry, though I would have preferred a stronger development of these ideas, the way they are presented is enough to touch the reader's mind and to keep the story as a love one. Reaching to the romance I’ll only say that you’ll love it. It reminded me of Pride and Prejudice - keeping and given the obvious differences. Love for a person who hates you will surely arouse the reader's feelings. Did someone say that it's easy to love?

“My mind kept fighting against my heart because from the very first moment I saw you, I knew that you would be the one to destroy me.” “I would never hurt you.” “You’re hurting me right now without knowing it.”

The author certainly had inspiration and talent when she describes Arkana’s universe, a fantasy world where both mythological elements and high tech items are harmonious found. Her style is not fussy, but it is very picturesque. For me it was very easy not only to imagine that fantasy world, but to see myself "out there". It's wonderful, a true description of the Elysian Fields ("Heaven" in Greek mythology) where there is no malice or violence and pure souls remain to delight.

Although this volume is focused on the relationship between Molly and Victor, the author has been careful to keep reader’s attention on the problems that the two worlds are facing. So I have every reason to expect that the next volumes will change the tone. Sides will be chosen, sacrifices will be made, the characters that are now barely sketched will influence the course of events and all of these are make me very curious. I just hope that the announced release date for the second volume will be indeed August 2013.

„Could it be that he felt sorry for me after all? Or that his hostile attitude was really a cover up, designed to protect me? I pondered over my wishful thinking, but when his black eyes locked on mine again, all positive thoughts had vaporized. There was no question about it; Victor detested me beyond my wildest imagining.”
...more

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Sep 20, 2013 Kim rated it really liked it

Shelves: arc, read-in-2013, reviewed, netgalley, young-adult

Find this review and more at kimberlyfaye reads .

"You call it Arkana. The Greeks called it the Fields of Elysium. I call it heaven."

Molly Bennett is a regular girl with a huge secret. One day while out on a walk with her dog, she stumbles across a portal to a magical place, a land called Arkana. There she meets a group of guys and her life will never be the same again. She sets off on a journey filled with discovery, secrets, love and personal growth.

"I fully understood t

Find this review and more at kimberlyfaye reads .

"You call it Arkana. The Greeks called it the Fields of Elysium. I call it heaven."

Molly Bennett is a regular girl with a huge secret. One day while out on a walk with her dog, she stumbles across a portal to a magical place, a land called Arkana. There she meets a group of guys and her life will never be the same again. She sets off on a journey filled with discovery, secrets, love and personal growth.

"I fully understood that I was anything but fascinating to others, but these guys didn't seem to mind my grayness. Perhaps… just maybe, there was a small chance that I wasn't as drab as I considered myself to be. And perhaps the world wasn't as cruel as I thought it to be."

I liked Molly. She seemed like someone I could be friends with. Her willingness to embrace this new land and the people she met there was something I could appreciate greatly. As she discovered more about Arkana and her new friends, she came to realize things about herself, too. Despite the amount of attention Weston paid to her, she was inexplicably drawn to Victor. So was I. Though his initial interactions with Molly weren't exactly friendly, I knew there was more to his behavior. There had to be a reason he was acting so hostile towards her. It reminded me a lot of the way Edward treated Bella in the first chapters of Twilight, though I was pretty sure there weren't going to be any vampires in this story. ;) The truth was far more interesting than that.

"I held his gaze, not because I was confident enough, but because physically I was unable to move my eyes away."

There was far more to Victor than met the eye. His parents were murdered by Terrakas (Earthlings). All his teachings on his path to becoming a Sentinel have taught him that Terrakas are dangerous to Arkana. Nothing good can come from having one visiting their land and befriending them. He becomes conflicted the more he is around Molly. He thinks he may be falling for her, but a relationship between them just isn't possible. Feelings this intense are difficult to deny or ignore, and as she begins opening herself up more to him, he does the same. I cheered them on as they began to explore their feelings for each other. Despite getting off to a rocky start, they fell hard and fast, much to the chagrin of those around them. Their relationship was anything but easy, but their connection was real.

"Molly dear, you have to learn to wait for perfect moments and take pleasures in small doses. Patience is a virtue, which most young men and women lack."

This book sucked me in immediately. There wasn't a slow build-up to the action; the story got off the ground quickly. From the minute Molly stepped foot in Arkana, I was hooked. I had to know more about this land and those that inhabited it. The author's description of this magical place was incredible. The world-building, more than the characters, was my favorite part of this book. It felt like I was right there with Molly, experiencing every new discovery with her. Her relationship with her family, her friends in Los Angeles and those in Arkana felt real and natural. The characters were well-developed. Despite the fact that it was a little predictable at times, Fields of Elysium was a fascinating, quick and easy read filled with action and (clean) romance. This is the first book I've read by A.B. Whelan, but it won't be the last. I've already purchased the second book in this series and look forward continuing on in this saga.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. All quotes come from the review copy and may differ from the final version. ...more

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Nov 29, 2012 Cassie C rated it really liked it

Actual rating: 3.5 stars

I was given a copy of this novel by the author in exchange for a honest, unbiased review.

Fields of Elysium is one of those novels that surprises you after you are finished reading. You are utterly captivated by the characters, and are eager to read the next in the series because you want to find out what happens next! While there were some flaws (which I'll get to in a bit), overall this was a great read with a supernatural/paranormal twist. The characters were good, and Actual rating: 3.5 stars

I was given a copy of this novel by the author in exchange for a honest, unbiased review.

Fields of Elysium is one of those novels that surprises you after you are finished reading. You are utterly captivated by the characters, and are eager to read the next in the series because you want to find out what happens next! While there were some flaws (which I'll get to in a bit), overall this was a great read with a supernatural/paranormal twist. The characters were good, and the plot was excellent. I definitely want to travel to Arkana now! Scenes are richly described and beautifully written, and I could easily picture Arkana as if it I was actually there.

There were a couple problems I had while reading so I want to start by talking about them before I go into what I liked. So to start, there were times where I didn't like the writing style. There were some awkward sentences and such, and it made the characters' conversations stilted and weird. I know that most of the characters in the novel are from a different world, however they talked as if they were from a different century. Don't get me wrong, it was nice, but not real. Several times it didn't even seem like the character themselves were speaking; rather it was just the character's thoughts. Additionally, there wasn't enough backstory for me in regards to the characters. I'm hoping that there's further exploration of the characters in the subsequent novels (and I know for sure there will be more with Victor in the novella). There were errors throughout the book (which could have purely been in the Kindle version I had), and sometimes it distracted from the story, but it wasn't that bad. Finally, while I loved Victor and Molly's relationship, it was extremely quick (and I'm not a huge fan of insta-love). Both Molly and Victor's feelings for each other developed too fast for my personal preference, but by the end I was fine with their relationship (and I won't have a problem for the rest of the series as long as they stay together!).

Now, don't think I didn't like this book because I really enjoyed it! I liked witnessing Molly's growth throughout the novel, and how she truly became an independent person by the end. She stood up for herself, and became a headstrong female lead. By the end of the novel, she was extremely different than how she started, and she truly matured throughout the story. Victor is simply a swoonworthy hunk that I loved right off the bat. His feelings for Molly are true, and several scenes he had me- and Molly- swept off our feet. Their relationship is just too cute, and I don't want anything to happen to them!

Arkana itself is truly where this book shines. I loved every single thing about the setting, and as I said earlier, it was richly described. You can tell that Ms. Whelan put much time and effort into creating such a unique new world. The world is so original, and I loved finding out everything I could. I can't wait to learn even more!!

I recommend checking this novel out if you are a fan of sweet romance, new worlds, and sci-fi with a hint of danger. I am very excited to see where this series goes, and what will happen to the characters that now have a place in my heart. While this was a good book, I think the rest of the series will prove to be even better.

Happy reading :) ...more

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Mar 04, 2013 Courtney Robichaux rated it it was amazing

I don't even know where to begin! I LOVED this book so much!!! The characters are amazing, the new world is so beautiful, the plot is suspenseful, and the romance is perfect!

The book begins with Molly's life in Beverly Hills. She doesn't seem to fit in after moving from New Jersey. She makes a few friends but her life doesn't feel complete. When her overprotective parents finally grant her a little bit of freedom, she gets so much more than she bargained for! She takes a hike one afternoon, slip I don't even know where to begin! I LOVED this book so much!!! The characters are amazing, the new world is so beautiful, the plot is suspenseful, and the romance is perfect!

The book begins with Molly's life in Beverly Hills. She doesn't seem to fit in after moving from New Jersey. She makes a few friends but her life doesn't feel complete. When her overprotective parents finally grant her a little bit of freedom, she gets so much more than she bargained for! She takes a hike one afternoon, slips through a wormhole, and finds herself on another planet, Arkana! She quickly makes friends with a group of guys. The slightly conceded but cute and happy Weston is drawn to her immediately, while the strong and mysterious Victor is cold and distant. Although Molly loves Weston's easy manner, she can't keep Victor out of her thoughts.

Arkana is a stunningly beautiful and magical place! Time moves 5x faster there than on Earth so Molly tries to spend as much time on Arkana as she can. I was completely enthralled reading about her adventures on this planet! The creatures in Arkana are creatively written, well described, and sometimes dangerous. The technology is slightly more advanced there. The clean energy source of the crystals could be something the Earth desperately needs. The most amazing thing is that the people on that planet know peace. The way of life for their citizens is fascinating. Some citizens are wealthy but even the natives in the woodlands are happy with what they have. There are no wars or violence. It's hard to imagine a place created that way. It sounds and looks like paradise! Don't mistake peaceful for boring though. They do have sporting events. When reading about the Ecmentur games, I was on the edge of my seat. I wish I could visit this beautiful and peaceful place like Molly does!

This story was a "coming of age" of sorts for Molly. She realizes the responsibility of keeping this forbidden secret and decides to grow up. She becomes stronger physically to keep up with life on Arkana and she becomes stronger mentally too. She realizes how to better treat others around her and how to stand up for herself. I also really liked Molly's parents. Although overprotective, they were involved in her life and gave her great advice. It's true; it's very difficult to discern the reasons behind other's actions. You never know what inner emotional battles they are fighting.

Victor is a great example of that. His whole life was focused on getting revenge for the death of his parents by earthlings. He's angry and bitter and pushes Molly away. But when she walks into his life, she challenges his lifelong belief that all earthlings -and Earth itself- are evil. Victor has this inner turmoil that is easy to understand and Molly heals him. When he finally opened up to her, my heart soared. The sweet words, watching the vivid sunsets, riding through the trees with red petals, watching the butterflies, the campfire, the kisses...*sigh*. You really need to read this!

Now that they're finally together, I cannot wait to read about their future adventures. The religious undertones in the book were subtle. I found it sweet that when Victor was in danger, she prayed for him. I'm so in awe of this book and I could easily see this being made into a captivating and successful movie. I'm eagerly awaiting book 2 so I can escape to Arkana once again! ...more

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May 07, 2013 Sher A. Hart rated it really liked it

Shelves: my-reviews

Fields of Elysium turned out to less plot-driven than I expected in an SF novel, but I still enjoyed it whenever the story moved off-world. The author did a great job in most of the descriptions. I could visualize the scenes, and the action on Arkana kept the plot moving at a fast pace. Very nice world building. Not so nice editing.

At first, I thought, please, not another Twilight, boring move and new school stuff. But then Molly found the cave early on, and I liked the story a lot better on the Fields of Elysium turned out to less plot-driven than I expected in an SF novel, but I still enjoyed it whenever the story moved off-world. The author did a great job in most of the descriptions. I could visualize the scenes, and the action on Arkana kept the plot moving at a fast pace. Very nice world building. Not so nice editing.

At first, I thought, please, not another Twilight, boring move and new school stuff. But then Molly found the cave early on, and I liked the story a lot better on the world on the other side of the wormhole—Arkana.

One girl meeting a big group of boys in the wildnerness (and not running in fear of bodily harm) seemed death-wishy, but the friendly vs. hostile boys’ personalities came right out of my teenage experience. I also met a group (in public) and hung out with the outgoing friend until Mr. Antisocial showed up on my doorstep with a gift. If I’d found out (minor spoiler alert) he’d been spying on me with intent to kill, my crush would have crashed. Molly’s didn’t—more death-wish behavior. If the author had addressed this and brought in the reason for moving across country that doesn’t turn up until almost the end of the book, the tension and the plot on Earth would have been a lot stronger throughout. As it was, the lack of a driving force of evil, be it in the villain appearing in person much earlier or revealing the wrong he did near the start, made the Earthbound parts stumble.

Then we get to characterization. Molly started immature, grew in the aspects of determination, self-confidence, and loyalty, but still ended immature in most ways. A couple of racial slurs didn’t make her any more sympathetic. “So kind of you to notice,” would have served as a better response to taunting. Instead, she became the worst offender. I got used to the stilted language, but I couldn’t identify with her behavior and lack of self-preservation because I wasn't given a reason for it until far too late. We’re talking the kind of things that weed people out of the genetic pool, not the kind that happen in spite of being careful or using common sense. When given a chance to improve her fitness and thereby survival skills, Molly passes. I thought Victor was worth the effort.

Arcana and the characters there were the saving grace of this book. Victor was beguiling, even in his hostility, because it stemmed from his history. And experience changed his behavior. The prophet and his role in Arcana’s present situation were well thought out, along with Victor’s family and the different societies on Arcana. The danger of discovery to Arcana, however, did not serve as well as a continuing evil or villain would have. The villain’s appearance came out of nowhere, making the ending seemed contrived, but kudos to the author for concluding in a way that made that made the story feel complete.

Cliffhangers do not belong at the end of a book—they belong at ends of sections and chapters. Entice me with the characters and their world and I will be there when the next book comes out. I will be there for Arcana and Victor. 3.5 stars. Yes, I know most review sites won’t let me give half a star, so I’m rounding up as if the editing (including story structure) were better and because the imaginative world deserves 5 stars.
...more

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Dec 01, 2012 Sam rated it really liked it

Shelves: fantasy, for-the-young-at-heart, read-in-2013, science-fiction-other-worlds

This was quite a delightful read, very suitable for teenagers but still good reading as an adult.

Molly is sixteen and has just been uprooted and moved across the US by her parents. She hasn't really got to know anyone in her new school and neighbourhood. While taking her dog for a walk, she discovers a strange portal in a cave, which drops her into the world of Arkana, and sends her on a romantic—and sometimes dangerous and distressing—adventure when she meets Victor and his friends.

The author h This was quite a delightful read, very suitable for teenagers but still good reading as an adult.

Molly is sixteen and has just been uprooted and moved across the US by her parents. She hasn't really got to know anyone in her new school and neighbourhood. While taking her dog for a walk, she discovers a strange portal in a cave, which drops her into the world of Arkana, and sends her on a romantic—and sometimes dangerous and distressing—adventure when she meets Victor and his friends.

The author has done a great job of capturing "being a teenager" with Molly. As a character, she pushes on the boundaries set by her parents, has to deal with sometimes difficult situations and emotions, consider the morality of certain actions or behaviour, and so on. She does change through the course of the book, and seems to be a pretty likeable character all in all. There were a few moments that had me rolling my eyes and wanting her to just get a grip, but that happens with teenagers! Victor is an intriguing character, though I did sometimes wonder at his complete changes of heart that happen on a couple of occasions—we're not really told why he changed, and so he is maybe not such a detailed character as Molly—yet. The supporting characters were a mix of different personalities, and I would like to see them being given a bit more attention in future books.

The descriptive passages in the book were wonderfully detailed, and a lot of thought has clearly gone into the world of Arkana. There's quite a lot of worldbuilding going on, but it doesn't take over the book, and it's a good basis for future stories. There's a little underlying morality/faith within the story, but it doesn't detract and it didn't feel like it was being forced on the reader.

Although the new kid in school thing does seem to show up a lot in books, in this case the author avoided the more usual "outcast because they're new/a loner/weird" that I've seen in a lot of other books. Molly makes several friends, she's accepted, and that made for a refreshing change. There are a couple of girls who aren't particularly friendly, but that, I think, makes the situation more realistic. Molly is also pushed into situations relating to her school and friends, some of which I remember going through, and that adds to the believability, I think.

The plot moves along at a fairly good pace, and the story is enjoyable, though there was a kind of anecdotal feel to it in places—if anecdotal is the right word. It's perhaps something to do with the time difference between Earth and Arkana, but it occasionally felt like some of the things that happened came out of nowhere. Also, I really wasn't sure about the inclusion of Adam, it felt like he didn't quite belong in the book, somehow. The romance side of the story was quite sweet, even though the relationship was somewhat turbulent in places!

Overall, I did like this book very much, especially the amount of detail and imagination involved in the world of Arkana. I should also say thankyou! to the author for pointing me at the free e-book.
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Fields of Elysium

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