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Shock Me #1
Shock Me
A promising gymnast, Donna Young is a shy, quiet nobody from the wrong side of town. The only exciting thing in life is her secret friendship with Ryan, her childhood crush. But after the accident—one that should have killed her—she discovers she has impossible powers! Why now, at sixteen, can she transform into something shocking and inhuman? Donna doesn't know how to use her new abilities or who she can trust, but unveiling this mystery might lead to conclusions about Ryan that are deadly.
Rich kid, Ryan Applegate is the most popular guy in town. He has a face that should be on a poster in every girl’s bedroom and dates the hottest chick in school. But ever since the big explosion at the town’s power plant, Ryan has been keeping secrets of his own, that if revealed could force him to choose between his family and the girl he's forbidden to love.
As their electrifying puzzle unfolds, so unfolds a town where friends become enemies, and enemies become unrecognizable and intertwined. Tortured heroes just might be the bad guys,and Donna discovers that her and Ryan’s secrets are powerful enough to destroy everyone... including themselves.
Rich kid, Ryan Applegate is the most popular guy in town. He has a face that should be on a poster in every girl’s bedroom and dates the hottest chick in school. But ever since the big explosion at the town’s power plant, Ryan has been keeping secrets of his own, that if revealed could force him to choose between his family and the girl he's forbidden to love.
As their electrifying puzzle unfolds, so unfolds a town where friends become enemies, and enemies become unrecognizable and intertwined. Tortured heroes just might be the bad guys,and Donna discovers that her and Ryan’s secrets are powerful enough to destroy everyone... including themselves.
116 pages, ebook
First published September 15, 2013
25 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Ashley C. Harris
41 books1,495 followers★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Sign up to be notified of Ashley's new releases & book giveaways here: http://eepurl.com/DFPFb
USA Today and international bestselling author Ashley C. Harris loves to write page-turning sci-fi, fantasy, and paranormal romances.
She has authored over twenty-six novels, and two of her screenplays have been produced into independent films.
In addition to writing, Ashley has worked behind-the-scenes in television for almost a decade, including working on a morning and evening news show that aired on ABC.
She is a reading addict and Star Wars enthusiast who loves to dream, spend time with her husband, and obsess over biblical mysteries.
Keep an eye out for her newest releases at www.AshleyCHarris.com.
USA Today and international bestselling author Ashley C. Harris loves to write page-turning sci-fi, fantasy, and paranormal romances.
She has authored over twenty-six novels, and two of her screenplays have been produced into independent films.
In addition to writing, Ashley has worked behind-the-scenes in television for almost a decade, including working on a morning and evening news show that aired on ABC.
She is a reading addict and Star Wars enthusiast who loves to dream, spend time with her husband, and obsess over biblical mysteries.
Keep an eye out for her newest releases at www.AshleyCHarris.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 17, 2015
love the sci-fi/nsa,spying,government bioman building,plus all the outter space stuff and technology inclusion..fighting was good also..Donna turning into a fireball...hmmmm that was scary,but the storyline was awesome,where is David? love the second series
October 30, 2013
Review from Ja čitam, a ti?
Shock Me by Ashley Harris is a story with new, fresh premise and I believe that fans of paranormal young adult novels will be thrilled to read it.
I was completely hooked after reading prologue - it goes few months ahead and than author returns back to tell you what is going on. But the thing is, you have no idea what is going on. I hate that opening scenes where you find out about main plot twist even before you start to actually read. Ashley Harris managed to masterfully confuse you and leave you wanting more.
Now, what I really liked is that she didn't make everything about angsty paranormal romance - if they are not together the whole world will come to its end. Don't be disappointed - there is brooding, hot guys and chemistry sparkling all around like crazy, but you will be so surprised. I now I did - after first third of the book I thought I had it all figured out, but I was so wrong.
One thing that I mind was constant switching of narrators - almost every character at some point tells you what is going on. That overwhelmed me at times, but I have to admit that it probably gave that extra something to the reading experience. I had started reading Shock Me before I read author info. Why is that important? Well, I noticed that whole book had "movie script" feel and I could clearly imagine everything in my head. Now I know that tat is no coincidence considering that Ashley Harris is also movie director.
I'm wondering if we will be seeing this in cinema soon.
Shock Me by Ashley Harris is a story with new, fresh premise and I believe that fans of paranormal young adult novels will be thrilled to read it.
I was completely hooked after reading prologue - it goes few months ahead and than author returns back to tell you what is going on. But the thing is, you have no idea what is going on. I hate that opening scenes where you find out about main plot twist even before you start to actually read. Ashley Harris managed to masterfully confuse you and leave you wanting more.
Now, what I really liked is that she didn't make everything about angsty paranormal romance - if they are not together the whole world will come to its end. Don't be disappointed - there is brooding, hot guys and chemistry sparkling all around like crazy, but you will be so surprised. I now I did - after first third of the book I thought I had it all figured out, but I was so wrong.
One thing that I mind was constant switching of narrators - almost every character at some point tells you what is going on. That overwhelmed me at times, but I have to admit that it probably gave that extra something to the reading experience. I had started reading Shock Me before I read author info. Why is that important? Well, I noticed that whole book had "movie script" feel and I could clearly imagine everything in my head. Now I know that tat is no coincidence considering that Ashley Harris is also movie director.
I'm wondering if we will be seeing this in cinema soon.
September 19, 2013
First thoughts: I didn't know what I was expecting, but I wasn’t expecting this!
Wow, what can I say? This book grabs you at the beginning with the prologue. You are slightly confused and left wanting more.
The book is told in third person, which gives you an insight to everyone's thoughts. Normally, I don’t like it this way but it really works. I think I would have been more opinionated and lost without it.
I am not sure if I like Ryan or not.
The ending is a cliffhanger. Gah! I need it now.
Other than a few typos and grammer errors, it flowed well.
Our very own Anjana is acknowledged by the author at the end. You have got to check it out if you like nonstop action, xmen, the avengers, marvel comics in general, Susan Quinn's Mindjack Trilogy, The Hunger Games, geeks, hackers, if you hate bullies, good friends, forgiveness, lost families, kindness, small towns, good friends who are enemies, an intense story, a belief that everyone can be a hero.
Story: We jump right into the story with only what we are given from the synopsis and the prologue to guide us to figure out what is going on. Normally that would bug me but she makes it easy to jump right into it and try to figure things out along with the characters. You have little to go by and it makes for an intriguing mystery.
This story is mostly about Donna. She lost her brother who ran away years ago. Her mother died. Her father has sacrificed everything to find his son. Donna has even spent time with no gas, where the water doesn't work and gets her clothes at goodwill. She has lost a lot of weight and has been the source of bullying about her weight. Even though she lost it, she is still bullied by the head cheerleader. Her clothes are too big for her now. She is a gymnast. Donna is humble and sweet. Her only friends are Spencer and Rebecca. Ryan used to be her best friend growing up until they weren't even talking to each other any more.
Donna knows something is wrong with her after a car hits her but doesn’t because it goes right through her. She burns up and Spencer and Rebecca witness it and Donna pretty much passes out and Spencer takes her and carries her to the river because she is so hot. She is so hot that she burns Spencer in the process of him carrying her to the river. Spencer and Rebecca freak out about it for different reasons and kind of abandon Donna.
Donna feels alone and afraid because she doesn’t know what is happening to her. Her father is too busy helping others who seem to have “lost” their child and finding her brother that Donna isn’t really able to talk to him about it. So, Donna has to figure out what is happening to her and how to control this thing that makes her translucent and glowing and absorbing and discharging electricity.
Ryan's girlfriend is Lynn, the head cheerleader. Ryan does nothing when Lynn humiliates Donna. Ryan runs with Donna everyday but they never talk. On birthday's, they leave a note or a little gift for the other on a bench they run by, but don't run that day with the other. You can tell Ryan cares about her and buys her these running shoes that he saw her try on but couldn't afford. Donna figured it was him who left it at her doorstep. Donna doesn't even know how Ryan feels about her. That's why I am not sure either how I feel about him. He is the son of Mr. Applegate and obvious bad guy (Mr. Applegate that is).
Rebecca is a very smart girl, literally. She starts to hang with Paul another very smart kid. In fact he is so smart that he uncovers something very powerful and knows he is in trouble from what he has uncovered.
Spencer is in hiding with his attractive mother who gets hit on by Ryan’s older brother who has been held back twice in school. We learn more about Spencer through the book.
In the end: I don’t want to give much more away, but there are others in the small town who also have abilities and when things come to full light. Someone will make the ultimate sacrifice in aiding to uncover the evil that is lurking in this town.
Everyone can become a hero. That is what I got out of it. Well a lot more but that was a really powerful message. It keeps you on the edge of your seat to see what will happen next. I can’t wait for the next book and look forward to more from this new author!
Wow, what can I say? This book grabs you at the beginning with the prologue. You are slightly confused and left wanting more.
The book is told in third person, which gives you an insight to everyone's thoughts. Normally, I don’t like it this way but it really works. I think I would have been more opinionated and lost without it.
I am not sure if I like Ryan or not.
The ending is a cliffhanger. Gah! I need it now.
Other than a few typos and grammer errors, it flowed well.
Our very own Anjana is acknowledged by the author at the end. You have got to check it out if you like nonstop action, xmen, the avengers, marvel comics in general, Susan Quinn's Mindjack Trilogy, The Hunger Games, geeks, hackers, if you hate bullies, good friends, forgiveness, lost families, kindness, small towns, good friends who are enemies, an intense story, a belief that everyone can be a hero.
Story: We jump right into the story with only what we are given from the synopsis and the prologue to guide us to figure out what is going on. Normally that would bug me but she makes it easy to jump right into it and try to figure things out along with the characters. You have little to go by and it makes for an intriguing mystery.
This story is mostly about Donna. She lost her brother who ran away years ago. Her mother died. Her father has sacrificed everything to find his son. Donna has even spent time with no gas, where the water doesn't work and gets her clothes at goodwill. She has lost a lot of weight and has been the source of bullying about her weight. Even though she lost it, she is still bullied by the head cheerleader. Her clothes are too big for her now. She is a gymnast. Donna is humble and sweet. Her only friends are Spencer and Rebecca. Ryan used to be her best friend growing up until they weren't even talking to each other any more.
Donna knows something is wrong with her after a car hits her but doesn’t because it goes right through her. She burns up and Spencer and Rebecca witness it and Donna pretty much passes out and Spencer takes her and carries her to the river because she is so hot. She is so hot that she burns Spencer in the process of him carrying her to the river. Spencer and Rebecca freak out about it for different reasons and kind of abandon Donna.
Donna feels alone and afraid because she doesn’t know what is happening to her. Her father is too busy helping others who seem to have “lost” their child and finding her brother that Donna isn’t really able to talk to him about it. So, Donna has to figure out what is happening to her and how to control this thing that makes her translucent and glowing and absorbing and discharging electricity.
Ryan's girlfriend is Lynn, the head cheerleader. Ryan does nothing when Lynn humiliates Donna. Ryan runs with Donna everyday but they never talk. On birthday's, they leave a note or a little gift for the other on a bench they run by, but don't run that day with the other. You can tell Ryan cares about her and buys her these running shoes that he saw her try on but couldn't afford. Donna figured it was him who left it at her doorstep. Donna doesn't even know how Ryan feels about her. That's why I am not sure either how I feel about him. He is the son of Mr. Applegate and obvious bad guy (Mr. Applegate that is).
Rebecca is a very smart girl, literally. She starts to hang with Paul another very smart kid. In fact he is so smart that he uncovers something very powerful and knows he is in trouble from what he has uncovered.
Spencer is in hiding with his attractive mother who gets hit on by Ryan’s older brother who has been held back twice in school. We learn more about Spencer through the book.
In the end: I don’t want to give much more away, but there are others in the small town who also have abilities and when things come to full light. Someone will make the ultimate sacrifice in aiding to uncover the evil that is lurking in this town.
Everyone can become a hero. That is what I got out of it. Well a lot more but that was a really powerful message. It keeps you on the edge of your seat to see what will happen next. I can’t wait for the next book and look forward to more from this new author!
February 11, 2017
Original post here: http://pastriesandnovelthoughts.weebl...
I was slightly bummed after reading this novel because I had really high hopes for it. I'm super into reading sci-fi novels and the blurb for this book sounded really interesting to me and piqued my interest... Not to mention I did myself a disservice by reading all the wonderful reviews on this novel...
This novel started very slow for a little more than the first half of the book but when it got going, it got going. There was a lot of action, arguments, heroism, and even some "romance" that took a fast pace nearing the end of this novel.
What I didn’t like: Donna Young, the protagonist, was a typical, clichéd "invisible" girl, who just wouldn't stand up for herself. Throughout the whole novel she basically just cowers away from her problems, feels wayyy too sorry for herself and cries a lot. It wasn't until the end of the book that she sorta kinda grew some courage but not really... Then Ryan, who is supposed to be the male protagonist, is super weak-willed, annoying and again your typical golden boy stereotype. His relationship with Donna, or lack of therefore, is even more common that Donna and Ryan’s characters (you know the whole best friends as kids, one grows up attractive and ‘popular” and leaves the less “popular” one in favor of the “cool kids” thing).
Now Donna’s relationships with her best friends, Spencer and Rebecca, I really couldn’t connect with in any other way than the feeling of being back stabbed. When things turn south for Donna, Spencer and Rebecca are quick to split. I don’t know about you but I don’t want "friends” like that. Let's not forget Lynn, the “you can’t sit with us" mean girl. (Yes, I really did just quote Mean Girls lol.) Yeah, wasn't a fan of her. Oh and I think that Donna’s dad could totally treat her better than he does.
For a very large part of this book I was very confused as to what time things took place and who was talking. Then there would be random parts of the book that take place a few months back and then randomly switch back to the present. Then the different character POVs changed faster than I could keep up with and a lot of the time the character POV was changed unnecessarily just to give irrelevant information.
What I liked: The supporting characters were what, to me, made the book more enjoyable. Randy, Ryan's brother and Donna's bully, is the "bad boy” in town but really, just like most bad boys: he has a beating heart and a conscience, with more than a bit of cold humor. Honestly I wish Randy was the male lead in this novel, he was much more likable than Ryan in my opinion. I also like Paul, the school genius, and Brook, Donna's best friend from the city more than Donna, Spencer and Rebecca. Paul is a really shy, nerdy guy but toward the end of the book is this total B.A. dude (I won’t spoil his character for y'all by saying why though). Brook, I liked and could relate to because she is a strong-minded female and doesn’t put up with people’s garbage. I would have loved to see more of her.
Although I didn’t like Donna’s dad, I did like his seemingly strong friendship with the town mayor, Mr. Applegate. I also love the whole small town vibe of this book and the way Harris takes the time to describe the settings in this novel.
I really loved the background of how Donna and a few other characters got their powers. The ending of this novel was really enjoyable and left you on a major cliff hanger. It was a whirlwind of exciting information for you to piece together, sacrifice and heartbreak but most importantly in a series, questions on what happens next for Donna and her friends and enemies.
What rounded this novel up to a three, for me, was the fact that although I felt some of the characters and their reactions were unrealistic, the ending of the book had me wanting more and to me that's what it's about. So yeah, this novel had it's downsides but for the most part, it was enjoyable and engaging.
I’d definitely recommend this novel for coming of age, sci-fi fans. I look forward to reading Sparks, the next installment in the Shock Me Series.
I was slightly bummed after reading this novel because I had really high hopes for it. I'm super into reading sci-fi novels and the blurb for this book sounded really interesting to me and piqued my interest... Not to mention I did myself a disservice by reading all the wonderful reviews on this novel...
This novel started very slow for a little more than the first half of the book but when it got going, it got going. There was a lot of action, arguments, heroism, and even some "romance" that took a fast pace nearing the end of this novel.
What I didn’t like: Donna Young, the protagonist, was a typical, clichéd "invisible" girl, who just wouldn't stand up for herself. Throughout the whole novel she basically just cowers away from her problems, feels wayyy too sorry for herself and cries a lot. It wasn't until the end of the book that she sorta kinda grew some courage but not really... Then Ryan, who is supposed to be the male protagonist, is super weak-willed, annoying and again your typical golden boy stereotype. His relationship with Donna, or lack of therefore, is even more common that Donna and Ryan’s characters (you know the whole best friends as kids, one grows up attractive and ‘popular” and leaves the less “popular” one in favor of the “cool kids” thing).
Now Donna’s relationships with her best friends, Spencer and Rebecca, I really couldn’t connect with in any other way than the feeling of being back stabbed. When things turn south for Donna, Spencer and Rebecca are quick to split. I don’t know about you but I don’t want "friends” like that. Let's not forget Lynn, the “you can’t sit with us" mean girl. (Yes, I really did just quote Mean Girls lol.) Yeah, wasn't a fan of her. Oh and I think that Donna’s dad could totally treat her better than he does.
For a very large part of this book I was very confused as to what time things took place and who was talking. Then there would be random parts of the book that take place a few months back and then randomly switch back to the present. Then the different character POVs changed faster than I could keep up with and a lot of the time the character POV was changed unnecessarily just to give irrelevant information.
What I liked: The supporting characters were what, to me, made the book more enjoyable. Randy, Ryan's brother and Donna's bully, is the "bad boy” in town but really, just like most bad boys: he has a beating heart and a conscience, with more than a bit of cold humor. Honestly I wish Randy was the male lead in this novel, he was much more likable than Ryan in my opinion. I also like Paul, the school genius, and Brook, Donna's best friend from the city more than Donna, Spencer and Rebecca. Paul is a really shy, nerdy guy but toward the end of the book is this total B.A. dude (I won’t spoil his character for y'all by saying why though). Brook, I liked and could relate to because she is a strong-minded female and doesn’t put up with people’s garbage. I would have loved to see more of her.
Although I didn’t like Donna’s dad, I did like his seemingly strong friendship with the town mayor, Mr. Applegate. I also love the whole small town vibe of this book and the way Harris takes the time to describe the settings in this novel.
I really loved the background of how Donna and a few other characters got their powers. The ending of this novel was really enjoyable and left you on a major cliff hanger. It was a whirlwind of exciting information for you to piece together, sacrifice and heartbreak but most importantly in a series, questions on what happens next for Donna and her friends and enemies.
What rounded this novel up to a three, for me, was the fact that although I felt some of the characters and their reactions were unrealistic, the ending of the book had me wanting more and to me that's what it's about. So yeah, this novel had it's downsides but for the most part, it was enjoyable and engaging.
I’d definitely recommend this novel for coming of age, sci-fi fans. I look forward to reading Sparks, the next installment in the Shock Me Series.
October 2, 2013
This story was totally shrouded in mystery when it comes to really knowing what is going on. I read the whole thing from cover to cover and yet, I only have a slight inkling of what is going on behind the scenes of a quiet country small town. I gained certain impressions of the people and their actions through this book, but there is a larger part of me that cautions about forming too strong of conclusions because I think what is to come will flip my initial impressions on their heads. At least I hope that's where all this is going because this felt like a set-up book more than anything else.
Donna lives with her widowed father who is a handyman. Their circumstances are much reduced from once they were before her dad lost the farm, her mother died in child birth and her brother disappeared. She goes through life quietly with just her two friends, Spencer and Becca. They're all low on the food chain at the highschool which is particularly sad for Donna because her best friend growing up, Ryan, began treating her as a non-entity too. He's now the typical jock with the witchy head cheerleader girlfriend and has a bully for an older brother. Only when they are really alone like when they're out sharing the town jogging path does he briefly smile.
Well, suddenly Donna's nothing life gets a bit more interesting and scary when she suddenly has the ability to turn into pure electricity, move through solid objects, pull juice in from electrical objects and shock the stuffing out of anyone she touches. Unfortunately, her first demonstration lost her the only two friends she has when they both run off and leave her because of their fears.
While she lives in fear over what is happening to her, all sorts of strange things are going on around her. The story switched to all the main players points of view showing that the bully, the jock and the cheerleader aren't what they seem in some ways. Her friends have their own concerns to worry about. And there is something big being hidden right in that small town. Donna and some others must figure out what before really bad things start to happen.
Okay, as I said the plot was more loose than I like, but it did offer some good intrigue. It was as twisty and vague as it could possibly be and I found out that I really enjoyed the feeling of knowing there was something going on, but not knowing what. I love good world building, but I felt that this story withheld a great deal for the sake of the mystery part. I can live with that- for now. The tone of this story is dark through this first segment like storm clouds are gathering. I got the impression that there is a lot of manipulation going on in the story by shadowy characters pulling everyone's string. All the characters hold a piece of the truth, but not all of it so everything is skewed. Look forward to it all being unraveled
I'm still trying to decide how I feel about all those kids even after having gotten their perspectives because the story is told from several points of view, but mostly Donna's. Donna is a genuine dear and you almost weep for all that she loses in this story at no fault of her own. Her friends were nice, but typical when faced with something way the heck out of their comfort zone. I wanted to hate them for abandoning Donna, but honesty makes me admit that if fear was my overall feeling then I might run too. Lynn, the pop cheerleader, is typical. She's a strutting Queen B and enjoys spreading misery around her. She has the most popular guy in school for a boyfriend, but its still not enough and Donna is her favorite figurative punching bag. Ryan's brother Randy has been an angry bully all his life, but gaining his perspective shows that his reactions are due to a past of pain and heartbreak. He resents his brother, but there is a part of him that is protective too. Then we come to Ryan. Here's where I really hope that things are really not what they seem. Donna crushes on him and in secret he wants her, but there's some mysterious reason he can't have her and was forced to cut off contact with her. I would be alright with that because its for her own good possibly- like he's a danger to her, but its the pathetic way he stands quietly by and lets her get picked on by the people in his crowd of friends that only made me feel anger and disappointment in him.
The end of this one totally set things up for the next book and left me eager for what comes next.
As to warnings, it would be fine for mid to older teens. There's drinking, partying and references to sex, but no actual scenes. Mild to moderate violence takes place during one of the final scenes.
Those who enjoy YA Sci-Fi Romance with a twisty plot mystery should try this one.
Donna lives with her widowed father who is a handyman. Their circumstances are much reduced from once they were before her dad lost the farm, her mother died in child birth and her brother disappeared. She goes through life quietly with just her two friends, Spencer and Becca. They're all low on the food chain at the highschool which is particularly sad for Donna because her best friend growing up, Ryan, began treating her as a non-entity too. He's now the typical jock with the witchy head cheerleader girlfriend and has a bully for an older brother. Only when they are really alone like when they're out sharing the town jogging path does he briefly smile.
Well, suddenly Donna's nothing life gets a bit more interesting and scary when she suddenly has the ability to turn into pure electricity, move through solid objects, pull juice in from electrical objects and shock the stuffing out of anyone she touches. Unfortunately, her first demonstration lost her the only two friends she has when they both run off and leave her because of their fears.
While she lives in fear over what is happening to her, all sorts of strange things are going on around her. The story switched to all the main players points of view showing that the bully, the jock and the cheerleader aren't what they seem in some ways. Her friends have their own concerns to worry about. And there is something big being hidden right in that small town. Donna and some others must figure out what before really bad things start to happen.
Okay, as I said the plot was more loose than I like, but it did offer some good intrigue. It was as twisty and vague as it could possibly be and I found out that I really enjoyed the feeling of knowing there was something going on, but not knowing what. I love good world building, but I felt that this story withheld a great deal for the sake of the mystery part. I can live with that- for now. The tone of this story is dark through this first segment like storm clouds are gathering. I got the impression that there is a lot of manipulation going on in the story by shadowy characters pulling everyone's string. All the characters hold a piece of the truth, but not all of it so everything is skewed. Look forward to it all being unraveled
I'm still trying to decide how I feel about all those kids even after having gotten their perspectives because the story is told from several points of view, but mostly Donna's. Donna is a genuine dear and you almost weep for all that she loses in this story at no fault of her own. Her friends were nice, but typical when faced with something way the heck out of their comfort zone. I wanted to hate them for abandoning Donna, but honesty makes me admit that if fear was my overall feeling then I might run too. Lynn, the pop cheerleader, is typical. She's a strutting Queen B and enjoys spreading misery around her. She has the most popular guy in school for a boyfriend, but its still not enough and Donna is her favorite figurative punching bag. Ryan's brother Randy has been an angry bully all his life, but gaining his perspective shows that his reactions are due to a past of pain and heartbreak. He resents his brother, but there is a part of him that is protective too. Then we come to Ryan. Here's where I really hope that things are really not what they seem. Donna crushes on him and in secret he wants her, but there's some mysterious reason he can't have her and was forced to cut off contact with her. I would be alright with that because its for her own good possibly- like he's a danger to her, but its the pathetic way he stands quietly by and lets her get picked on by the people in his crowd of friends that only made me feel anger and disappointment in him.
The end of this one totally set things up for the next book and left me eager for what comes next.
As to warnings, it would be fine for mid to older teens. There's drinking, partying and references to sex, but no actual scenes. Mild to moderate violence takes place during one of the final scenes.
Those who enjoy YA Sci-Fi Romance with a twisty plot mystery should try this one.
June 6, 2015
I received a copy of this book from Ashley C. Harris via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Yikes! That was a crazy ride! I'm still feeling a bit breathless with all that just happened right now!
Hello wonderful readers! How about we kick this review off with my little rendition of the plot!
This story for all intent and purposes was good.
However, I will admit that the first...hmm, probably 50 or so percent was really slow.
I wasn't a huge fan of those because i kept wondering if something would happen and when it did, the characters' reactions, well...i didn't find them as engaging as it could have been.
That being said, the next 50% picks up and suddenly so much is going on that you can scarcely breathe!
The character Donna, I kept hoping she'd find her courage at some point. Mostly in the story she cowers and cries, or is described as vulnerable looking. However, her attitude doesn't really change, I'm thinking probably in the next book that'll happen.
What i got annoyed at was that the author kept describing Donna's facial expression the same freaking way. We are humans, we don't always have one mode of smiles! for example- we can smile mischievously, kindly, coldly, etc...
Donna it would seem, had only one smile...and that was shyly.
Every time it was said that Donna smiled the word shyly would be right there!
Maybe that's just me, but it annoyed me somehow...maybe that's just a personal problem :P
There were moments that i wanted to throw my hands in the air and scream at Donna to get some backbone, but like i said...maybe in the next books.
This isn't so much a romance, there is a 'like' between characters, but there's no romance in here. As for Ryan Applegate, honestly, I wasn't his biggest fan.
Harris, you made me like Randy much more than Ryan...I kind of wish he was the love interest to be honest.
There were a few confusing moments, but as an overall it was an enjoyable read.
I definitely want to read the following books.
Stay Wonderful!
-The Book Herald
Tweet me @thebookherald
Yikes! That was a crazy ride! I'm still feeling a bit breathless with all that just happened right now!
Hello wonderful readers! How about we kick this review off with my little rendition of the plot!
" Donna is as normal a girl as you can get.
Alone, slightly transparent in a crowd, shy and nervous when she gains attention.
Donna likes the fact that she's at the bottom of the social food chain.
She has two best friends and that's enough for her...well, for the most part.
The thing she desires above all else, is the return of her former best friend and her biggest crush.
Ryan Applegate.
(Ryan Applegate)...has the most gorgeous face that should be on every girl's bedroom poster."
However, apart from the occasional head nod, he appears as though he couldn't care less.
One day Donna and her friends walk home when a car swerves and nearly crushes Donna, except that it doesn't...it goes right through her.
How? She has no idea, but all she knows is that one second she was human and the next, she's like a transparent bolt of lightning.
This story for all intent and purposes was good.
However, I will admit that the first...hmm, probably 50 or so percent was really slow.
I wasn't a huge fan of those because i kept wondering if something would happen and when it did, the characters' reactions, well...i didn't find them as engaging as it could have been.
That being said, the next 50% picks up and suddenly so much is going on that you can scarcely breathe!
The character Donna, I kept hoping she'd find her courage at some point. Mostly in the story she cowers and cries, or is described as vulnerable looking. However, her attitude doesn't really change, I'm thinking probably in the next book that'll happen.
What i got annoyed at was that the author kept describing Donna's facial expression the same freaking way. We are humans, we don't always have one mode of smiles! for example- we can smile mischievously, kindly, coldly, etc...
Donna it would seem, had only one smile...and that was shyly.
Every time it was said that Donna smiled the word shyly would be right there!
Maybe that's just me, but it annoyed me somehow...maybe that's just a personal problem :P
There were moments that i wanted to throw my hands in the air and scream at Donna to get some backbone, but like i said...maybe in the next books.
This isn't so much a romance, there is a 'like' between characters, but there's no romance in here. As for Ryan Applegate, honestly, I wasn't his biggest fan.
Harris, you made me like Randy much more than Ryan...I kind of wish he was the love interest to be honest.
There were a few confusing moments, but as an overall it was an enjoyable read.
I definitely want to read the following books.
Stay Wonderful!
-The Book Herald
Tweet me @thebookherald
September 7, 2014
***I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.***
This book did not live up to my expectations. Donna Young, the protagonist was fairly fine, but I expected much more from her. In fact, I think I liked the supporting characters and their stories much more. I'm sure I would have liked the book much more if it had been written in Paul's or Ryan's point of view.
The romance is mainly centered around Rebecca, Donna's best friend and Paul. I did think that Rebecca would end up with Spencer, but Paul really was much more nicer. Rebecca and Spencer are the usual best friends of Donna. But, my favorite characters in the book were Paul and Brook, Donna's friend who lived in the city. She was my favorite female in the story. But Ryan.. I'm not sure of anything about this guy. I don't think I like him very much, but I don't hate him either. But it is clear enough that he is going to be Donna's love interest.
The style of writing is also a simple one. The plot is quite new and I was excited about it. However, the execution dimmed it down a bit.But, the whole concept of making the people soldiers and giving them powers was very nice.
Overall, I would give this story 3.5 stars. But I guess I'll read the sequel to find out how the story continues. If you want a fun read with a good plot but can over look some errors, then I recommend this book.
I thank the author for giving me this book for free :)
This book did not live up to my expectations. Donna Young, the protagonist was fairly fine, but I expected much more from her. In fact, I think I liked the supporting characters and their stories much more. I'm sure I would have liked the book much more if it had been written in Paul's or Ryan's point of view.
The romance is mainly centered around Rebecca, Donna's best friend and Paul. I did think that Rebecca would end up with Spencer, but Paul really was much more nicer. Rebecca and Spencer are the usual best friends of Donna. But, my favorite characters in the book were Paul and Brook, Donna's friend who lived in the city. She was my favorite female in the story. But Ryan.. I'm not sure of anything about this guy. I don't think I like him very much, but I don't hate him either. But it is clear enough that he is going to be Donna's love interest.
The style of writing is also a simple one. The plot is quite new and I was excited about it. However, the execution dimmed it down a bit.But, the whole concept of making the people soldiers and giving them powers was very nice.
Overall, I would give this story 3.5 stars. But I guess I'll read the sequel to find out how the story continues. If you want a fun read with a good plot but can over look some errors, then I recommend this book.
I thank the author for giving me this book for free :)
April 10, 2014
I read this book for a review. at first, the synopsis didn't grab me. I don't know why. I still wanted to read it though because I'm greedy. I go through books like crazy.
I am so happy I gave this book a chance. I freaking loved it. spencer...love him! Donna..love her. Rebecca was ok, she was kind of boring so it was hard to get into her. I didn't hate her though. Ryan though....HATED HIM. regardless of what he knew he was still a crappy person.
this whole book was great. didn't like the ending though. not the BIGGGG ending the part that happened before it. it made me sad. I didn't like randy til the end but then u realize he's....a better guy than his brother.
This book has an amazing plot and followed through the whole time. there was enough questions left at the end that you need the next book!!!! I cant wait for the next book!!!!
I would def recommend this book to everyone I know!!!
I am so happy I gave this book a chance. I freaking loved it. spencer...love him! Donna..love her. Rebecca was ok, she was kind of boring so it was hard to get into her. I didn't hate her though. Ryan though....HATED HIM. regardless of what he knew he was still a crappy person.
this whole book was great. didn't like the ending though. not the BIGGGG ending the part that happened before it. it made me sad. I didn't like randy til the end but then u realize he's....a better guy than his brother.
This book has an amazing plot and followed through the whole time. there was enough questions left at the end that you need the next book!!!! I cant wait for the next book!!!!
I would def recommend this book to everyone I know!!!
August 17, 2016
This book was ok at best. It kinda felt like it was a tv series where all the characters are isolated often with someone else and there problems are usually tied somehow to the main story line. I think that the characters could have been put into more detail. Like with Spencer he isn't a character that caught my attention right away, we could have learned more about him in the beginning of the story so the readers had more of a emotional connection. I believe that it could help keep readers more interested. Overall the plot of the story was great and original,
May 8, 2017
Absolutely stunning novel with excellent story line. "Sock me" was actually able to shock me with its genuine story plot. I enjoyed the reading very much.
April 16, 2014
May contain spoilers.
I think the summary for this one doesn't begin to really summarized Shock Me. In a way, I found it misleading because there's so much more to it. I couldn't stop reading it once I started. The story hooked me up from the beginning to the end. Most especially the ending.
I'm glad that it was written in a third person's point of view. It made it easier for me to understand them.
The story itself was written very well and the mysteries surrounding it kept it more interesting and better. It's like when one secret was revealed there's another secret. Donna's power comes off surprising because unlike the others her just revealed itself. I was wondering about that part and how it could be related to the explosion of the power plant 17 years ago. Then there's something about her grandfather and her brother. Another mystery. I felt bad for her when her friends abandoned her and they only realized that she's one of the good guys when she rescued Spencer.
I really like Donna. I could describe her as someone who's inner strength is hidden. There are many people who describes her as being beautiful and I'd agree with that sentiment. Despite her experiencing more problems and cries about them, it made her more endearing more to me and not the kind that annoys me. I really hope she learns how to control her power so she could be able to use it on it's optimum level.
I kind of dislike her friends, Rebecca and Spencer, when they abandoned her but I understood why they did that especially Spencer. It seems not only Donna who has problems and secrets. I never really thought about that of Spencer and when that secret is revealed I have an idea who's going to be pissed off first. Despite the romance between Rebecca and Spence not blooming (since Rebecca liked him), I was happy that she was able to love someone else and he her. I'm not going to spoil that but it hit me in the gut when that happened. You'll just have to read it in order to find out. Like what I said, there's a lot of mysteries going on and most of them aren't even revealed yet.
I don't know if I should pity Ryan or hate him. What I want to know is what incident he kept on talking about that almost killed Donna that led their friendship astray. It sucked that their sort of friendship is hidden when no one else is around. I agree with Brook that he sounds like a jerk despite his reasons.When another of those mystery was revealed near the ending I was like boy, their relationship will get more complicated once Ryan and the others will find out about Donna. Although I'm rooting for them despite their current circumstances. I was also wondering what do they do for the good of others that they are doing when in Paul's point of view is that they sounded evil. It's another mystery I'd like to find out.
I can't say anything about Paul's character since that would lead to spoilers but I really like him and he's good for Rebecca.
I really like Brook. She's another friend of Donna whom she met when she went to New York. Despite their difference with Brook being more outgoing their friendship was real. Brook was able to be there for Donna during the time when her friends left.
I also want to know about Donna's dad and if he's keeping secrets from her what are they. His relationship to Ryan's father is also a bit of a mystery even if they were childhood friends. I wonder why he doesn't like to talk about his father. And why's he son ran away when he was 5 years old?
Randy is Ryan's older brother. A little later despite him being a bully and sort of a bad guy there's more to him than it seems. I want to reserve m opinions about him until I know more.
Well, the main (evil?) leader of the story is half a surprise. I kind of expected it but not much. Although I wonder what started his plans.
I checked how many chapters it contained and it only had 12 chapters and I was like on the 11th already. I knew it would be a cliffhanger when I was finished reading it and that cliffhanger was an even bigger mystery than the others because of that one name. Now, I realized the other person might be that person but that's another mystery.
I really need to have the next book of this series. The suspense from Shock Me kept on killing me. I have a lot of questions in this book and hopefully if not all of them are revealed in the next book at least some of it would be. I wish there was some information about the next book.
I received a copy from ever Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books in exchange for an honest review.
I think the summary for this one doesn't begin to really summarized Shock Me. In a way, I found it misleading because there's so much more to it. I couldn't stop reading it once I started. The story hooked me up from the beginning to the end. Most especially the ending.
I'm glad that it was written in a third person's point of view. It made it easier for me to understand them.
The story itself was written very well and the mysteries surrounding it kept it more interesting and better. It's like when one secret was revealed there's another secret. Donna's power comes off surprising because unlike the others her just revealed itself. I was wondering about that part and how it could be related to the explosion of the power plant 17 years ago. Then there's something about her grandfather and her brother. Another mystery. I felt bad for her when her friends abandoned her and they only realized that she's one of the good guys when she rescued Spencer.
I really like Donna. I could describe her as someone who's inner strength is hidden. There are many people who describes her as being beautiful and I'd agree with that sentiment. Despite her experiencing more problems and cries about them, it made her more endearing more to me and not the kind that annoys me. I really hope she learns how to control her power so she could be able to use it on it's optimum level.
I kind of dislike her friends, Rebecca and Spencer, when they abandoned her but I understood why they did that especially Spencer. It seems not only Donna who has problems and secrets. I never really thought about that of Spencer and when that secret is revealed I have an idea who's going to be pissed off first. Despite the romance between Rebecca and Spence not blooming (since Rebecca liked him), I was happy that she was able to love someone else and he her. I'm not going to spoil that but it hit me in the gut when that happened. You'll just have to read it in order to find out. Like what I said, there's a lot of mysteries going on and most of them aren't even revealed yet.
I don't know if I should pity Ryan or hate him. What I want to know is what incident he kept on talking about that almost killed Donna that led their friendship astray. It sucked that their sort of friendship is hidden when no one else is around. I agree with Brook that he sounds like a jerk despite his reasons.When another of those mystery was revealed near the ending I was like boy, their relationship will get more complicated once Ryan and the others will find out about Donna. Although I'm rooting for them despite their current circumstances. I was also wondering what do they do for the good of others that they are doing when in Paul's point of view is that they sounded evil. It's another mystery I'd like to find out.
I can't say anything about Paul's character since that would lead to spoilers but I really like him and he's good for Rebecca.
I really like Brook. She's another friend of Donna whom she met when she went to New York. Despite their difference with Brook being more outgoing their friendship was real. Brook was able to be there for Donna during the time when her friends left.
I also want to know about Donna's dad and if he's keeping secrets from her what are they. His relationship to Ryan's father is also a bit of a mystery even if they were childhood friends. I wonder why he doesn't like to talk about his father. And why's he son ran away when he was 5 years old?
Randy is Ryan's older brother. A little later despite him being a bully and sort of a bad guy there's more to him than it seems. I want to reserve m opinions about him until I know more.
Well, the main (evil?) leader of the story is half a surprise. I kind of expected it but not much. Although I wonder what started his plans.
I checked how many chapters it contained and it only had 12 chapters and I was like on the 11th already. I knew it would be a cliffhanger when I was finished reading it and that cliffhanger was an even bigger mystery than the others because of that one name. Now, I realized the other person might be that person but that's another mystery.
I really need to have the next book of this series. The suspense from Shock Me kept on killing me. I have a lot of questions in this book and hopefully if not all of them are revealed in the next book at least some of it would be. I wish there was some information about the next book.
I received a copy from ever Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2014
So, so, SO good!!!
Shock Me by Ashley C. Harris is the first in series about a group of teens with super powers. This particular story revolves around seventeen year old Donna Young and begins with her freaking out and running home after someone told her that they would kill her if they saw her. The story is then flashes back two months and it takes almost the entire book to get back to what happened in the first few pages.
I have to say I loved this story! It took me a little while to follow it as the POV is told in third person and switches between the multiple characters, even though the main focus of the plot is Donna. Our main character Donna Young is your average teenage girl. She just wants to make it through high school then she can essentially escape her small town and never go back. However, after a near brush with death, something strange happens and it happens in front of her two best friends, Rebecca and Spencer. Rebecca is a straight-laced, all A's student, never gets in trouble and always does what she is supposed to do. Spencer is the nerd, the class-clown, who as a town transplant (meaning he didn't grow-up in the small town) is an outcast. I have to say that I was severely disappointed that Donna's two best friends ditched her because they were scared, did they not think Donna was? At first I really didn't like either of them for this, but they grew on me and redeemed themselves in the end.
The antagonists/love interest in this story are intriguing. Ryan Applegate is the youngest son of the town's namesake and was Donna's closest friend growing up. Then one day he just started ignoring her. Donna assumed it was because she was heavy and not popular, however there is more to Ryan than meets the eye. When I read his first POV, I knew there was something different about him, his brother Randy, and his girlfriend Lynn. The three are always together and little comments they make towards each other let you know that there is something amiss. Even in the first chapter, Randy lights a cigarette without a lighter and when Ryan scolds him he simply says I am a lighter. LITTLE brother, Chill.
Then there's Paul. He is the penultimate nerd and a conspiracy theorist. Living in Applegate his whole life, he researches the town's power plant which before he was born exploded. Now he believes it's a cover for the government, but what do they want him for? He also happens to be head over heels for Rebecca who is oblivious.
So impressive set of characters, and this is only the one's who we get a sampling of their POVs. What I liked is that these characters are intertwined and the author seamlessly moves from one POV to the next. It did take a little getting used to with such a big list of characters but I really enjoyed seeing things from everyone's perspective.
The world-building is awesome and simple. Applegate is just a normal town with impressive secrets. Think Smallville
for the setting and X-men/Roswell
for the plot. Though I was able to predict with little accuracy what was going on in this small town, I was still shocked (no pun intended) at what all happened at its climax. I won't spoil it because it needs to be read to be fully appreciated!
If you enjoy YA lit, suspense, action, a little sci-fi mixed with fantasy, then go pick up a copy of this book. As far as first in series go, it hooked me right away and I can't wait to see just where the author takes it from here. Not to mention the awesome semi-cliffhanger!!!! So
Please, oh please, hurry book two!!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Shock Me by Ashley C. Harris is the first in series about a group of teens with super powers. This particular story revolves around seventeen year old Donna Young and begins with her freaking out and running home after someone told her that they would kill her if they saw her. The story is then flashes back two months and it takes almost the entire book to get back to what happened in the first few pages.
I have to say I loved this story! It took me a little while to follow it as the POV is told in third person and switches between the multiple characters, even though the main focus of the plot is Donna. Our main character Donna Young is your average teenage girl. She just wants to make it through high school then she can essentially escape her small town and never go back. However, after a near brush with death, something strange happens and it happens in front of her two best friends, Rebecca and Spencer. Rebecca is a straight-laced, all A's student, never gets in trouble and always does what she is supposed to do. Spencer is the nerd, the class-clown, who as a town transplant (meaning he didn't grow-up in the small town) is an outcast. I have to say that I was severely disappointed that Donna's two best friends ditched her because they were scared, did they not think Donna was? At first I really didn't like either of them for this, but they grew on me and redeemed themselves in the end.
The antagonists/love interest in this story are intriguing. Ryan Applegate is the youngest son of the town's namesake and was Donna's closest friend growing up. Then one day he just started ignoring her. Donna assumed it was because she was heavy and not popular, however there is more to Ryan than meets the eye. When I read his first POV, I knew there was something different about him, his brother Randy, and his girlfriend Lynn. The three are always together and little comments they make towards each other let you know that there is something amiss. Even in the first chapter, Randy lights a cigarette without a lighter and when Ryan scolds him he simply says I am a lighter. LITTLE brother, Chill.
Then there's Paul. He is the penultimate nerd and a conspiracy theorist. Living in Applegate his whole life, he researches the town's power plant which before he was born exploded. Now he believes it's a cover for the government, but what do they want him for? He also happens to be head over heels for Rebecca who is oblivious.
So impressive set of characters, and this is only the one's who we get a sampling of their POVs. What I liked is that these characters are intertwined and the author seamlessly moves from one POV to the next. It did take a little getting used to with such a big list of characters but I really enjoyed seeing things from everyone's perspective.
The world-building is awesome and simple. Applegate is just a normal town with impressive secrets. Think Smallville
for the setting and X-men/Roswell
for the plot. Though I was able to predict with little accuracy what was going on in this small town, I was still shocked (no pun intended) at what all happened at its climax. I won't spoil it because it needs to be read to be fully appreciated!
If you enjoy YA lit, suspense, action, a little sci-fi mixed with fantasy, then go pick up a copy of this book. As far as first in series go, it hooked me right away and I can't wait to see just where the author takes it from here. Not to mention the awesome semi-cliffhanger!!!! So
Please, oh please, hurry book two!!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2013
This book review was originally posted at Journey with Books
Shock Me was the first book of the Shock Me Series which was written by Ashley C. Harris. This was the first book I've read from this author and I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. It was a mixed of Fantasy and a little bit of Romance.
The plot was interesting. This is the first book in the series and when you read it you'd know that it's just an introduction. It barely touched the depth of the plot. So many questions were left unanswered that as a reader you'd be frustrated because you'd want the next book in your hands, presto.
Shock Me was written well. It was about a girl named Donna Young. She was a very ordinary teenager with ordinary teen problems like crushes, diets and fitting in. Until the day her life was changed because she discovered something unnatural within her.
I will not go into details because I think books were mostly enjoyed if you read it without spoiling it. The characters were all very interesting. Each one of them has value. I think I liked that the most. They all played a role in Donna Young's life. They were not just there as a filler.
These characters grew on me. Each one of them has flaws and some of them were selfish in the way a normal teenager was. They weren't the goody-two-shoes-it's-so unreal type of characters. The author made all of them and I mean all of them more realistic and human with their flaws and how they handled their feelings and unusual situations.
The chemistry of the main characters is fine. I figured since the blurb mentions Ryan, he was the love interest of Donna. I must say that the chemistry was there but romance was not the focus of the book. I guess the romance part will be developed in the next books of this series.
The flow of the story was nice. There were so many questions left out at the end of the book but it was okay. I just wished some secrets were revealed to make the whole thing even more exciting than it was. The whole book was enveloped with an air mystery that would keep a reader guessing.
Verdict:
This book review was originally posted at Journey with Books
Shock Me was the first book of the Shock Me Series which was written by Ashley C. Harris. This was the first book I've read from this author and I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. It was a mixed of Fantasy and a little bit of Romance.
The plot was interesting. This is the first book in the series and when you read it you'd know that it's just an introduction. It barely touched the depth of the plot. So many questions were left unanswered that as a reader you'd be frustrated because you'd want the next book in your hands, presto.
Shock Me was written well. It was about a girl named Donna Young. She was a very ordinary teenager with ordinary teen problems like crushes, diets and fitting in. Until the day her life was changed because she discovered something unnatural within her.
I will not go into details because I think books were mostly enjoyed if you read it without spoiling it. The characters were all very interesting. Each one of them has value. I think I liked that the most. They all played a role in Donna Young's life. They were not just there as a filler.
These characters grew on me. Each one of them has flaws and some of them were selfish in the way a normal teenager was. They weren't the goody-two-shoes-it's-so unreal type of characters. The author made all of them and I mean all of them more realistic and human with their flaws and how they handled their feelings and unusual situations.
The chemistry of the main characters is fine. I figured since the blurb mentions Ryan, he was the love interest of Donna. I must say that the chemistry was there but romance was not the focus of the book. I guess the romance part will be developed in the next books of this series.
The flow of the story was nice. There were so many questions left out at the end of the book but it was okay. I just wished some secrets were revealed to make the whole thing even more exciting than it was. The whole book was enveloped with an air mystery that would keep a reader guessing.
Verdict:
Overall, Shock Me by Ashley C. Harris was a good novel. It was a really good start for a book series ad I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book to get the answers this one left. I recommend this book to all YA readers who want their next read to have a mix of fantasy, a little bit of romance and a whole dose of mystery.
This book review was originally posted at Journey with Books
April 18, 2014
I would first like it thank the author for letting me read and honestly review her book for free.
I'll start with the beginning. I loved the whole aspect of Donna and Ryan running together in silence. I thought that was really sweet and that's what had me hooked from the get go.
The whole switching between multiple characters' points of view is not my favourite thing in a book. If it had to be a book with multiple points of view, I would personally prefer to have just the main MC and the main love interest. But... Ms Harris actually managed to pull this off and it worked well in her book, though there were times when I had to remember which character was which but it wasn't too bad.
Donna was cool. She was just there for me. She didn't stand out as much for me.
Ryanwas nicely written and I liked reading from his POV. Randytoo, and Randy ended up growing on me towards the end. At first I thought he was this douchebag jock type but I hope in the next book we see more of his personality and see a vulnerable side of him.
Lynnof course is the bitchy mean popular girl character you just have to have in a book and I must say that I enjoyed reading her character more than Donna.
Rebeccawas just annoying and seemed unnecessary to the story. I thought her POV dragged the story on.
Don't really know what to think or say about Paul. I guess he was okay and sad what happened to him but I had feeling that something like that would happen to him.
I liked Brook's spunky attitude. She brought some of the chapters to life. Was great getting to know her.
Throughout the entire book I was like Spencer get over yourself, but I wasn't sure whether I liked him or not.
The whole concept of the story was clear and flowed well. So that was good that it wasn't confusing for the reader to grasp the the concept. I loved the ending A LOT. It was totally kickass and had me really intrigued with how it was going to end. The "twisty cliff-hanger" at the end was really good and I'll definitely be picking up the second book to see where the story is heading.
I would recommend anyone to pick this book up and give it a go. The concept is great and I think with the following books in the series, it will get better.
Happy reading! :)
I'll start with the beginning. I loved the whole aspect of Donna and Ryan running together in silence. I thought that was really sweet and that's what had me hooked from the get go.
The whole switching between multiple characters' points of view is not my favourite thing in a book. If it had to be a book with multiple points of view, I would personally prefer to have just the main MC and the main love interest. But... Ms Harris actually managed to pull this off and it worked well in her book, though there were times when I had to remember which character was which but it wasn't too bad.
Donna was cool. She was just there for me. She didn't stand out as much for me.
Ryanwas nicely written and I liked reading from his POV. Randytoo, and Randy ended up growing on me towards the end. At first I thought he was this douchebag jock type but I hope in the next book we see more of his personality and see a vulnerable side of him.
Lynnof course is the bitchy mean popular girl character you just have to have in a book and I must say that I enjoyed reading her character more than Donna.
Rebeccawas just annoying and seemed unnecessary to the story. I thought her POV dragged the story on.
Don't really know what to think or say about Paul. I guess he was okay and sad what happened to him but I had feeling that something like that would happen to him.
I liked Brook's spunky attitude. She brought some of the chapters to life. Was great getting to know her.
Throughout the entire book I was like Spencer get over yourself, but I wasn't sure whether I liked him or not.
The whole concept of the story was clear and flowed well. So that was good that it wasn't confusing for the reader to grasp the the concept. I loved the ending A LOT. It was totally kickass and had me really intrigued with how it was going to end. The "twisty cliff-hanger" at the end was really good and I'll definitely be picking up the second book to see where the story is heading.
I would recommend anyone to pick this book up and give it a go. The concept is great and I think with the following books in the series, it will get better.
Happy reading! :)
October 27, 2013
First off a HUGE thank you to Ashley for providing me with an ARC copy to review for this blog tour.
I loved this book so much I finished it in one sitting :D eeekkkkk
Where do I sign up for the second book's blog tour?? I'm so excited
This is the first book I have read by this author, and it was awesome, yeah there were a few typo's but hey, you couldn't really notice it as the story flowed well and you enthralled from the beginning.
We have a group of young kids at high school not really fitting him with the crowd and getting bullied by the "popular" people.
Donna, Rebecca, Spencer & Paul go through some things young adults shouldn't, there lives change completely on that god awful day when Donna has a near hit & run miss. Everything and everyone's perspectives change from there.
Donna now feels isolated, hated and ashamed of what she is becoming. But the thing is, what is it that she's becoming?
She can walk through almost anything, I say almost, because towards the end, there is a fight scene and she can't get through a certain wall (that is all I'm saying), she's an electrical current carrier of sorts, and can sprout electrical balls from her palms....neat right,.....WRONG! She's living her life frightened, and hunted down by a group of Assassins or sorts.
Ryan, oh my little Ryan.
Whilst reading this book I had a Love/Hate relationship with this guy. I mean seriously, if you really like Donna you would make your "Skank" of a girlfriend to stop bullying her and making her feel ashamed and embarrassed in front of the whole god damn school.
Man the FUCK up and get your act together ! (There I said it)
It did get a tad confusing as to who's POV it was, but that's nothing that can't be fixed in the future.
I'm still a little confused as to HOW Donna became the way she did, but I think this was done intentionally by the author, due to the way the story ended. WTH!
I DID NOT SEE THAT HAPPENING!
I need to get my hands on the second book, and I do hope Ashley starts giving us some answers :)
I loved this book so much I finished it in one sitting :D eeekkkkk
Where do I sign up for the second book's blog tour?? I'm so excited
This is the first book I have read by this author, and it was awesome, yeah there were a few typo's but hey, you couldn't really notice it as the story flowed well and you enthralled from the beginning.
We have a group of young kids at high school not really fitting him with the crowd and getting bullied by the "popular" people.
Donna, Rebecca, Spencer & Paul go through some things young adults shouldn't, there lives change completely on that god awful day when Donna has a near hit & run miss. Everything and everyone's perspectives change from there.
Donna now feels isolated, hated and ashamed of what she is becoming. But the thing is, what is it that she's becoming?
She can walk through almost anything, I say almost, because towards the end, there is a fight scene and she can't get through a certain wall (that is all I'm saying), she's an electrical current carrier of sorts, and can sprout electrical balls from her palms....neat right,.....WRONG! She's living her life frightened, and hunted down by a group of Assassins or sorts.
Ryan, oh my little Ryan.
Whilst reading this book I had a Love/Hate relationship with this guy. I mean seriously, if you really like Donna you would make your "Skank" of a girlfriend to stop bullying her and making her feel ashamed and embarrassed in front of the whole god damn school.
Man the FUCK up and get your act together ! (There I said it)
It did get a tad confusing as to who's POV it was, but that's nothing that can't be fixed in the future.
I'm still a little confused as to HOW Donna became the way she did, but I think this was done intentionally by the author, due to the way the story ended. WTH!
I DID NOT SEE THAT HAPPENING!
I need to get my hands on the second book, and I do hope Ashley starts giving us some answers :)
October 12, 2014
This book is a confusing conglomerate of differing views all told from the third perspective where you don't know who the good or bad guys are... and it will grip you, pull you in and keep you turning the pages until you have finished.
Donna, our main female, not only had the usual angst of high school but she still crushes over her childhood best friend, Ryan. She has two other friends who don't fit in with the mainstream either, Rebecca and Spencer. Donna is quiet, shy and lovely. Rebecca is even quieter although she shows she has a backbone in spurts. Spencer is the joker of the pack who, like most jokers, is hiding his own worries behind a veneer of confidence.
So, onto the other characters. You have the Applegate brothers, Randy and Ryan. Randy - I can't get my head round. Is he a bad guy or a good guy? I'm looking forward to reading more about him as I never know what to expect from him. Ryan - I sort of like him. I know that he is Donna's crush and that makes me want a HEA for them but he is also a bit of a dick. He says he still has feelings for Donna and will "crush" anyone or anything that hurts her. He leaves her secret birthday and christmas presents but it has to remain that way - a secret. He has his own secrets and reasons for doing so but it still comes across mainly as he is worried about his high school reputation with being friends with someone not in the 'in crowd'. Lynn is Ryan's cheerleader girlfriend and is a class A bitch to Donna and her friends. So far as I can see right now she has no redeeming qualities. I look forward to reading more about her to see if I'm wrong. Brook is Donna's friend from New York who is older than Donna and has no problem going after what she wants and speaking her mind. I liked her simply for the fact she was the only one who stood up to Lynn on Donna's behalf.
Secrets, intrigue, good guys, bad guys, a twist in the tale - it's all here. Try it, stick with it and you'll probably find yourself like me, glued to the very end and left wanting more.
Donna, our main female, not only had the usual angst of high school but she still crushes over her childhood best friend, Ryan. She has two other friends who don't fit in with the mainstream either, Rebecca and Spencer. Donna is quiet, shy and lovely. Rebecca is even quieter although she shows she has a backbone in spurts. Spencer is the joker of the pack who, like most jokers, is hiding his own worries behind a veneer of confidence.
So, onto the other characters. You have the Applegate brothers, Randy and Ryan. Randy - I can't get my head round. Is he a bad guy or a good guy? I'm looking forward to reading more about him as I never know what to expect from him. Ryan - I sort of like him. I know that he is Donna's crush and that makes me want a HEA for them but he is also a bit of a dick. He says he still has feelings for Donna and will "crush" anyone or anything that hurts her. He leaves her secret birthday and christmas presents but it has to remain that way - a secret. He has his own secrets and reasons for doing so but it still comes across mainly as he is worried about his high school reputation with being friends with someone not in the 'in crowd'. Lynn is Ryan's cheerleader girlfriend and is a class A bitch to Donna and her friends. So far as I can see right now she has no redeeming qualities. I look forward to reading more about her to see if I'm wrong. Brook is Donna's friend from New York who is older than Donna and has no problem going after what she wants and speaking her mind. I liked her simply for the fact she was the only one who stood up to Lynn on Donna's behalf.
Secrets, intrigue, good guys, bad guys, a twist in the tale - it's all here. Try it, stick with it and you'll probably find yourself like me, glued to the very end and left wanting more.
September 9, 2016
This book was a lot different then most I have read. In a good way. Usually when you read a book you are only in the mind of one maybe two characters and it goes back and forth, but this one you are able to be in the head of multiple characters and I really liked that. I never had to question why this person did what they did or where certain things came from. It was all given to you from all the different point of views from the key players in the book. And what a book this was.
I'm not usually not into y.a. books unless the story line is intriguing enough to pull me in right away. This book did that and more. The main character Donna is going through a very confusing circumstance that she has no one to turn to. When her friends saw her secret they put a wall up between them and ignored her because of the fear she caused in them. But Donna is no monster, she has just been dragged into a world she should have never been a part of and just when she thought it was really bad it gets so much worse.
I don't want to go into much detail because it'll give away the story line but I really loved the twists that happened in this book an the reveal of what was going on. The only complaints I'd have for it is they didn't act like high school kids at all. Maybe if they were written as older some situations would make much more sense. Others, not so much but the situation of them being high school kids were never really necessary I think it was just trying to convince you of their ages not really add to the story much.
Another part I thought didn't make sense was Donna was pretty consistently naked in this book yet no one really reacted to it. It was like it was a normal occurrence. Ummm if they really are high school boys and girls a naked girl would be a pretty big deal don't you think?
Well these are petty complaints at that and does not take away from the amazing story that is taking place. This is a series anyone can enjoy and get sucked into.
I'm not usually not into y.a. books unless the story line is intriguing enough to pull me in right away. This book did that and more. The main character Donna is going through a very confusing circumstance that she has no one to turn to. When her friends saw her secret they put a wall up between them and ignored her because of the fear she caused in them. But Donna is no monster, she has just been dragged into a world she should have never been a part of and just when she thought it was really bad it gets so much worse.
I don't want to go into much detail because it'll give away the story line but I really loved the twists that happened in this book an the reveal of what was going on. The only complaints I'd have for it is they didn't act like high school kids at all. Maybe if they were written as older some situations would make much more sense. Others, not so much but the situation of them being high school kids were never really necessary I think it was just trying to convince you of their ages not really add to the story much.
Another part I thought didn't make sense was Donna was pretty consistently naked in this book yet no one really reacted to it. It was like it was a normal occurrence. Ummm if they really are high school boys and girls a naked girl would be a pretty big deal don't you think?
Well these are petty complaints at that and does not take away from the amazing story that is taking place. This is a series anyone can enjoy and get sucked into.
April 25, 2014
Shock Me is a refreshing blend of early 80's Children Of The Corn, X-Men, and Heroes.
Donna Young is the perfect anti-heroine. There is a very real shyness about her, and a need for normalcy that reads true for her character, even as her powers begin to evolve.
Her story is very involved, given the rather short length of the overall work. It is not by far however, the only storyline explored within this plot.
The experience of reading this book can accurately be compared to playing with a set of Russian "nesting dolls". Just when you think that you have unearthed the most fascinating, heart-stopping, or OMG moment that this read has to offer...BAM! Here is another.
You have:
Donna and her powers.
The changing dynamic that the discovery of said powers caused with her group of friends.
The secrets that everyone involved in the story had; some having to do with powers and the main plot, others not so much but just as interesting.
The incorporation of romance into the story, but as a subplot for supporting cast members, rather than an unnecessary distraction for central players.
The unexplained but alluded to, story of Donna's familial ties to the villain.
The open ending.
...just to name a few of the high points!
The author managed to maintain an astounding level of control over the plot's direction by keeping the setting small
One would think that this choice would backfire, but that is far from the case. By keeping the setting confined to a small town, the author is able to establish an interconnectedness between her characters early on in the book. This also allows the reader to bond with said characters well before the action starts.
This a very well written YA Fantasy, meant to be enjoyed by any reader!
I, for one, am chomping at the bit for book 2.
Donna Young is the perfect anti-heroine. There is a very real shyness about her, and a need for normalcy that reads true for her character, even as her powers begin to evolve.
Her story is very involved, given the rather short length of the overall work. It is not by far however, the only storyline explored within this plot.
The experience of reading this book can accurately be compared to playing with a set of Russian "nesting dolls". Just when you think that you have unearthed the most fascinating, heart-stopping, or OMG moment that this read has to offer...BAM! Here is another.
You have:
Donna and her powers.
The changing dynamic that the discovery of said powers caused with her group of friends.
The secrets that everyone involved in the story had; some having to do with powers and the main plot, others not so much but just as interesting.
The incorporation of romance into the story, but as a subplot for supporting cast members, rather than an unnecessary distraction for central players.
The unexplained but alluded to, story of Donna's familial ties to the villain.
The open ending.
...just to name a few of the high points!
The author managed to maintain an astounding level of control over the plot's direction by keeping the setting small
One would think that this choice would backfire, but that is far from the case. By keeping the setting confined to a small town, the author is able to establish an interconnectedness between her characters early on in the book. This also allows the reader to bond with said characters well before the action starts.
This a very well written YA Fantasy, meant to be enjoyed by any reader!
I, for one, am chomping at the bit for book 2.
April 17, 2014
Shock Me is a Y.A fantasy novel that is written well and was enjoyable. Slow to start but once it gets going it does hold your imagination. The town and surrounding world that Ashley Harris has created is well constructed allowing you to easily understand the homes of each of the characters, see the lake, fort and surrounding forest in your mind’s eye as well as imagine the interior of the Applegate Powerplant.
The ideal of a girl turning into electricity immediately brings to mind a Fantastic 4 style feel with Marvel Comics in combination. The relationships between the main character Donna and her two friends Spencer and Rebecca are brilliant and you can really feel the raw emotion there especially as the novel progresses with each character individually growing emotionally as well as a group. Acceptance is a huge theme throughout the novel which is shown in the majority of the High School situations and also when they learn about Donna’s new powers.
I feel that this novel will appeal to the younger teen market as it does have a slight romance undercurrent theme among the fantasy tale as well as a mystery that you do not even know is a mystery until much later on even though you are fed more and more information regarding it. It does make the ending very interesting and catchy for those looking to buy book 2 in this series. All in all the raw ingredients are there but with a little more work developing the story I believe Ashley Harris has the makings of a good solid fantasy author.
The ideal of a girl turning into electricity immediately brings to mind a Fantastic 4 style feel with Marvel Comics in combination. The relationships between the main character Donna and her two friends Spencer and Rebecca are brilliant and you can really feel the raw emotion there especially as the novel progresses with each character individually growing emotionally as well as a group. Acceptance is a huge theme throughout the novel which is shown in the majority of the High School situations and also when they learn about Donna’s new powers.
I feel that this novel will appeal to the younger teen market as it does have a slight romance undercurrent theme among the fantasy tale as well as a mystery that you do not even know is a mystery until much later on even though you are fed more and more information regarding it. It does make the ending very interesting and catchy for those looking to buy book 2 in this series. All in all the raw ingredients are there but with a little more work developing the story I believe Ashley Harris has the makings of a good solid fantasy author.
April 7, 2014
wow!
whatever I was expecting, it sure wasn't this; kool, amazing, full of suprises, this sure surpassed all the expectations I had.
rather than concentrating on the romance, the author created an awesome base among friends which is not common anymore and I appreciated it. this book is not about some superpower laden heroes, it's a total mix of so many things. I wanted to know so much about it but it is so full of suspense. atleast who are the bad guys should have been revealed. I feel frustrated.
Randy and his brother Ryan have powers, their dad is the one who is operating something evil, that's just what I got from this book, in the basement of the power plant .
Donna is a normal girl, till the day she realizes she can turn into a walking lightning!!
Not concentrating on the romantic feeling between Ryan and Donna, the author has made everything so shockingly delightful by giving a base to the story also There were just too many things going on at the same, still I adored it.though I expected to know more or come to a conclusion as to who is evil who is not, the end just made it more complicated as well as more entertaining with nail biting events.
A must read, even if you are not a fan of super power stuff, you will like it.
Sure looking forward for the next in the series.
whatever I was expecting, it sure wasn't this; kool, amazing, full of suprises, this sure surpassed all the expectations I had.
rather than concentrating on the romance, the author created an awesome base among friends which is not common anymore and I appreciated it. this book is not about some superpower laden heroes, it's a total mix of so many things. I wanted to know so much about it but it is so full of suspense. atleast who are the bad guys should have been revealed. I feel frustrated.
Randy and his brother Ryan have powers, their dad is the one who is operating something evil, that's just what I got from this book, in the basement of the power plant .
Donna is a normal girl, till the day she realizes she can turn into a walking lightning!!
Not concentrating on the romantic feeling between Ryan and Donna, the author has made everything so shockingly delightful by giving a base to the story also There were just too many things going on at the same, still I adored it.though I expected to know more or come to a conclusion as to who is evil who is not, the end just made it more complicated as well as more entertaining with nail biting events.
A must read, even if you are not a fan of super power stuff, you will like it.
Sure looking forward for the next in the series.
April 22, 2014
The story was interesting. Donna was likable. Ryan was blah, I couldn’t understand why she liked him so much. I guess she missed her best friend, the Ryan from before not the new one. This Ryan doesn’t shy from bullying, his girlfriend Cruella loves to torture Donna and everyone else. He enjoys watching his brother bullying people. So what positive I could see from Ryan? He did some small nice things for her in secret, so no one would know that he said “Hi, how are you” to her. I just can’t see him as a love interest when it comes to Donna. I can’t see that he has a crush on her or anything close to it. He likes his girlfriend (who can change her look any way he wants her to) too much :( They are perfect for each other. His brother was a more interesting character. Spencer was so-so, till the end I wasn’t sure what to think about him. Paul was great and Rebecca wasn’t necessary to the story. Brook was fun.
The end made me look forward to the next book but the writing style was a big problem for me. 4 stars for the plot, Ryan gets zero
There is an interesting part at the end of the book where Ryan is thinking about his Cruella and Donna, comparing his feelings for both, thinking how if anyone ever tried to hurt Donna, the animal in him would tear them to pieces. I started laughing at that point, that was a good joke :)
The end made me look forward to the next book but the writing style was a big problem for me. 4 stars for the plot, Ryan gets zero
There is an interesting part at the end of the book where Ryan is thinking about his Cruella and Donna, comparing his feelings for both, thinking how if anyone ever tried to hurt Donna, the animal in him would tear them to pieces. I started laughing at that point, that was a good joke :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2014
I was given this book for an honest review.
FINALLY! FINALLY! FINALLY! After my last few reviews, I'd begun to give up on the YA sci-fi, paranormal activities, and unexplainable things genre. I actually don't mind this book following the "series" trend because it was good enough for me to want to read book two which should answer my questions about Ryan, Donna, and where this is all headed.
The author did a good job with handling so many interesting characters. Which means she did well setting up the characters while also leaving a lot unsaid. I'm glad she did this because it allowed me to jump to so many conclusions which kept me reading. She also didn't do the awkward forced "love at first sight, give up everything I am and have for my boyfriend" thing that so many YA authors are falling prey to. It allows us to focus on the important stuff, like the plant accident, Donna's strange events, and all the conspiracy theories thrown around. One area of growth for the author would be designing a way for the reader to tell the POV is switching. At times this became difficult to discern, but after some backtracking, I got used to it.
I finished this book pretty quickly both because of the length and the story was good. I'm most interested in what happens to the secondary characters in future books, in addition to those questions I still have, but overall great job Ashley!
FINALLY! FINALLY! FINALLY! After my last few reviews, I'd begun to give up on the YA sci-fi, paranormal activities, and unexplainable things genre. I actually don't mind this book following the "series" trend because it was good enough for me to want to read book two which should answer my questions about Ryan, Donna, and where this is all headed.
The author did a good job with handling so many interesting characters. Which means she did well setting up the characters while also leaving a lot unsaid. I'm glad she did this because it allowed me to jump to so many conclusions which kept me reading. She also didn't do the awkward forced "love at first sight, give up everything I am and have for my boyfriend" thing that so many YA authors are falling prey to. It allows us to focus on the important stuff, like the plant accident, Donna's strange events, and all the conspiracy theories thrown around. One area of growth for the author would be designing a way for the reader to tell the POV is switching. At times this became difficult to discern, but after some backtracking, I got used to it.
I finished this book pretty quickly both because of the length and the story was good. I'm most interested in what happens to the secondary characters in future books, in addition to those questions I still have, but overall great job Ashley!
October 27, 2013
Donna is the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Between her father losing the family farm, her mother’s death, and her brother being MIA, she’ s not exactly a candidate for most popular girl at school. However, she’s had a crush on Ryan since she was a child, and he treats her pretty much like she doesn’t exist – except when they are jogging on the town path.
Donna leads a pretty unremarkable life, until the accident, when she discovers she’s now able to turn into electricity, move through objects, and much more. Unfortunately, this new “power” causes her to lose the only two real friends she has – Spencer and Becca.
One of the best things about this book, is that it’s not like any other I’ve read recently. It’s absolutely unique. And, I loved that it was told in third person instead of first, because with all the things going on throughout the book, being able to know what more than one person was thinking was extremely helpful.
There were plenty of twists and turns, and it was a really interesting book to read. I really liked how Ashley built up each of the different characters and let us really see who they were during the story. And, the ending sets up the next story in a way that leaves you begging for more!
Donna leads a pretty unremarkable life, until the accident, when she discovers she’s now able to turn into electricity, move through objects, and much more. Unfortunately, this new “power” causes her to lose the only two real friends she has – Spencer and Becca.
One of the best things about this book, is that it’s not like any other I’ve read recently. It’s absolutely unique. And, I loved that it was told in third person instead of first, because with all the things going on throughout the book, being able to know what more than one person was thinking was extremely helpful.
There were plenty of twists and turns, and it was a really interesting book to read. I really liked how Ashley built up each of the different characters and let us really see who they were during the story. And, the ending sets up the next story in a way that leaves you begging for more!
April 21, 2014
Throughout the whole book I was surrounded in mystery, always on the edge of me seat to see what was going on. I loved it. It kept you always guessing and never wanting to put it down. I didn't expect to love Shock Me by Ashley C Harris as much as I did, but it was very enjoyable.
With a slow start it may not grab you at first, but the mysterious activity surrounding this town and characters, is sure to hold you into the story, and the end is filled with plenty of action.
Most of the story is told through Donna, our main character, but it also follows other characters who hold a significant part to the story. Her two best friends who she has struggles with after a shocking development comes out. Then there's Ryan with whom is her ex childhood best friend, and now secret friend with whom she has a secret crush on. He has a secret though that changes everything. Then there's Paul whom discovers the secrets of this town and the people behind it will do anything to keep it quite. Each and every characters plays apart and I enjoyed them all.
If you enjoy a light read with mystery, fantasy, action, and good characters then you should check out Shock Me, by Ashley C. Harris.
With a slow start it may not grab you at first, but the mysterious activity surrounding this town and characters, is sure to hold you into the story, and the end is filled with plenty of action.
Most of the story is told through Donna, our main character, but it also follows other characters who hold a significant part to the story. Her two best friends who she has struggles with after a shocking development comes out. Then there's Ryan with whom is her ex childhood best friend, and now secret friend with whom she has a secret crush on. He has a secret though that changes everything. Then there's Paul whom discovers the secrets of this town and the people behind it will do anything to keep it quite. Each and every characters plays apart and I enjoyed them all.
If you enjoy a light read with mystery, fantasy, action, and good characters then you should check out Shock Me, by Ashley C. Harris.
April 16, 2014
Shock Me is a very nice, light read. It is a fast-paced action book with a little romance, and it is a perfect way to pass some time. It was good enough that if the author wrote a sequel to Shock Me, I would definitely read it.
Romance - The main romance was between Rebecca and Paul. I liked how their romance wasn't too hurried. In many YA books, authors tend to push two characters together and make their romance intense when they have only known each other for a day. This never happens in real life. In Shock Me, the romance was built up just like it would build up in real life.
The Ending - I have mixed feelings about the ending. I wouldn't have had a problem with the ending if it had meaning to it. But in Shock Me, the ending just makes Donna's mission useless.
Also, I didn't understand the last few page in the book where the author wrote what was happening 'far away from East Applegate'. The characters were unnamed, so it was confusing. In the last sentence one of the unknown characters were named, probably meant as a cliffhanger.
My Rating: 4 stars
Romance - The main romance was between Rebecca and Paul. I liked how their romance wasn't too hurried. In many YA books, authors tend to push two characters together and make their romance intense when they have only known each other for a day. This never happens in real life. In Shock Me, the romance was built up just like it would build up in real life.
The Ending - I have mixed feelings about the ending. I wouldn't have had a problem with the ending if it had meaning to it. But in Shock Me, the ending just makes Donna's mission useless.
Also, I didn't understand the last few page in the book where the author wrote what was happening 'far away from East Applegate'. The characters were unnamed, so it was confusing. In the last sentence one of the unknown characters were named, probably meant as a cliffhanger.
My Rating: 4 stars
April 17, 2014
Interesting concept, fabulous plot.
The book has a very different kind of fantasy and characters with unique abilities. The way the story flow and the way the author writes are the drive that kept me reading.
Characters were quite consistent and lovable, usually I prefer either both mains or individual because multiple POVs were quite confusing, like the story got segmented. However, I'm perfectly alright with the multiple POVs, the way they connected way really clear.
Donna was clueless as to why she possess a particular ability after an accident that should leave her dead or severly injured but no, she gotten herself a strange ability.
Ryan, on the other hand, was not heavily emphasized, so I don't know if I like him or not. But I'm reaaly look forward to the past between Ryan & Donna that cause them to separate. And also the true identity of the applegates family.
The cliffhanger at the end was messing with my brain and I can't wait for the next book, not to forget about David young's entrance.
Awesome!
The book has a very different kind of fantasy and characters with unique abilities. The way the story flow and the way the author writes are the drive that kept me reading.
Characters were quite consistent and lovable, usually I prefer either both mains or individual because multiple POVs were quite confusing, like the story got segmented. However, I'm perfectly alright with the multiple POVs, the way they connected way really clear.
Donna was clueless as to why she possess a particular ability after an accident that should leave her dead or severly injured but no, she gotten herself a strange ability.
Ryan, on the other hand, was not heavily emphasized, so I don't know if I like him or not. But I'm reaaly look forward to the past between Ryan & Donna that cause them to separate. And also the true identity of the applegates family.
The cliffhanger at the end was messing with my brain and I can't wait for the next book, not to forget about David young's entrance.
Awesome!
May 1, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
When I first read the synopsis, I wasn't sure on what was I expecting...a little romance, mystery, and supernatural powers. As I read through the story, I discovered there was a lot more to that.
Donna is a shy girl, with two best friends and an impossible crush, whose life is about to change when something suddenly happens and she discovers her supernatural powers. Meanwhile, her friends are terrified, and Ryan, her crush, seems to notice her sometimes.
The story goes on like this, giving us information on this new reality from each characters' point of view. This way, we start linking the information we are given on what the other characters say, see and do. The interesting part here is that we never expect what is going to happen.
I am pleased to say this book was better than what I expected, and was thrilled to read it.
When I first read the synopsis, I wasn't sure on what was I expecting...a little romance, mystery, and supernatural powers. As I read through the story, I discovered there was a lot more to that.
Donna is a shy girl, with two best friends and an impossible crush, whose life is about to change when something suddenly happens and she discovers her supernatural powers. Meanwhile, her friends are terrified, and Ryan, her crush, seems to notice her sometimes.
The story goes on like this, giving us information on this new reality from each characters' point of view. This way, we start linking the information we are given on what the other characters say, see and do. The interesting part here is that we never expect what is going to happen.
I am pleased to say this book was better than what I expected, and was thrilled to read it.
April 22, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review
It’s very different from what I usually read but still nicely written. I really liked the plot. It’s intriguing and full of mystery. It was interesting from start to finish! The character development was well written and the way the story lines came together was excellent.
I look forward to the rest of the books in the series! I recommend this book to all YA readers who like suspense/mystery.
It’s very different from what I usually read but still nicely written. I really liked the plot. It’s intriguing and full of mystery. It was interesting from start to finish! The character development was well written and the way the story lines came together was excellent.
I look forward to the rest of the books in the series! I recommend this book to all YA readers who like suspense/mystery.
September 21, 2016
3.5 STARS.
this is probably the first fantasy book I've ever read , but I dont regret it.
the story did confuse me in some parts especially the narration, but it was different and new , kind of unique.
i liked how Ashley showed us everyone's perspective of what happened.
shock me impressed me more than I thought it would, maybe I dont see it worth 5 stars because I'm not used to books about "unrealistic thing" or because im so used to romance but it's definitely worth a read !
this is probably the first fantasy book I've ever read , but I dont regret it.
the story did confuse me in some parts especially the narration, but it was different and new , kind of unique.
i liked how Ashley showed us everyone's perspective of what happened.
shock me impressed me more than I thought it would, maybe I dont see it worth 5 stars because I'm not used to books about "unrealistic thing" or because im so used to romance but it's definitely worth a read !
January 29, 2015
electryfing short
Shock me was a riveting story from start to finish. The mixture of POV allowed me to fully immerse myself in the world Ashley Amaris has created. There are enough surprises to keep anyone engrossed.
This is a must read for anyone who enjoys multiple story arcs and intersecting lives
Shock me was a riveting story from start to finish. The mixture of POV allowed me to fully immerse myself in the world Ashley Amaris has created. There are enough surprises to keep anyone engrossed.
This is a must read for anyone who enjoys multiple story arcs and intersecting lives
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