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blackloop
A coming-of-age sci-fi romance, this novel is 'Stranger Things' meets 'The Breakfast Club'.
"A freak electro-magnetic pulse leaves 17-year-old Bo and six other teenagers trapped inside a building in the British seaside resort of Blackpool, desperately trying to work out what just happened, why they can’t get out, and how to survive the weirdest weekend of their lives.
Dealing with each other’s egos and issues is nothing compared to the fallout unleashed by the solar event, because hidden beneath the building they discover it has activated a powerful energy device called blackloop.
As blackloop starts affecting everyone and everything in its vicinity, can Bo, who’s still grieving the loss of her mum, summon the courage to confront her fears, realise she’s falling in love, and make a move on Karim before it’s too late?"
"A freak electro-magnetic pulse leaves 17-year-old Bo and six other teenagers trapped inside a building in the British seaside resort of Blackpool, desperately trying to work out what just happened, why they can’t get out, and how to survive the weirdest weekend of their lives.
Dealing with each other’s egos and issues is nothing compared to the fallout unleashed by the solar event, because hidden beneath the building they discover it has activated a powerful energy device called blackloop.
As blackloop starts affecting everyone and everything in its vicinity, can Bo, who’s still grieving the loss of her mum, summon the courage to confront her fears, realise she’s falling in love, and make a move on Karim before it’s too late?"
- GenresYoung Adult
208 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2023
1 person is currently reading
763 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Holding
8 books97 followersSarah Holding is a full-time children's and YA author based in the UK and Japan.
Sarah's latest offering 'Road to True North', a YA novel about an ill-fated roadtrip around Iceland, comes out in September 2025.
Her fictional debut 'SeaBEAN', a best-selling time travel adventure trilogy, is regarded as a leading 'cli-fi' text, and is being taught in primary schools across the UK and around the world.
'CHAMELEON', her first YA novel published in 2020, is set during the fall of Atlantis.
Sarah's first collection of poems, 'How to Write a Poem', which was written during lockdown, came out in 2021.
Her second YA novel 'blackloop', an edgy coming-of-age sci-fi romance, came out in 2023.
Sarah has given over 250 author-led creative writing workshops and talks for schools, libraries, festivals and offers a range of virtual discovery sessions for schools overseas.
When she's not writing, Sarah loves painting and drawing, travelling, cooking, singing and playing jazz.
Sarah's latest offering 'Road to True North', a YA novel about an ill-fated roadtrip around Iceland, comes out in September 2025.
Her fictional debut 'SeaBEAN', a best-selling time travel adventure trilogy, is regarded as a leading 'cli-fi' text, and is being taught in primary schools across the UK and around the world.
'CHAMELEON', her first YA novel published in 2020, is set during the fall of Atlantis.
Sarah's first collection of poems, 'How to Write a Poem', which was written during lockdown, came out in 2021.
Her second YA novel 'blackloop', an edgy coming-of-age sci-fi romance, came out in 2023.
Sarah has given over 250 author-led creative writing workshops and talks for schools, libraries, festivals and offers a range of virtual discovery sessions for schools overseas.
When she's not writing, Sarah loves painting and drawing, travelling, cooking, singing and playing jazz.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
November 12, 2024
⚫️Blackloop by Sarah Holding captures readers with its high-stakes setup, where a group of teenagers find themselves trapped after a sudden electromagnetic pulse disrupts the ordinary into something far darker. The story centers on Bo, a 17-year-old navigating grief, budding romance, and survival against an unknown, volatile force known as “blackloop.” Holding crafts a chilling atmosphere that feels almost like a horror movie set in Blackpool, transforming an ordinary seaside town into an eerie labyrinth of secrets.
⚫️The concept of blackloop as a hidden energy device introduced beneath the building adds a unique sci-fi twist that becomes a crucial character itself, influencing the events and individuals trapped inside. Holding’s portrayal of how “blackloop” affects not only the physical environment but the minds of those near it creates a sense of dread that escalates with every page.
⚫️Character dynamics play a vital role in Blackloop, adding layers of tension and conflict beyond the central mystery. Bo, grappling with the loss of her mother, emerges as a relatable and resilient protagonist, balancing vulnerability with determination. Her interactions with Karim, along with the slow development of their relationship, feel authentic and tender, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.
⚫️Holding’s writing is clear, concise, and beautifully evocative, capturing both the high-stakes tension of the plot and the introspective nature of the characters’ experiences. The prose flows effortlessly, guiding the reader through action-packed scenes while also pausing to explore the psychological and philosophical depth of the story. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, and the pacing is expertly handled—there’s always something driving the story forward, whether it’s a moment of suspense or a new revelation that reshapes the narrative.
⚫️This novel shines in its blend of thriller elements and interpersonal drama. Each teen has their own strengths and weaknesses, making the group dynamic complex and interesting, as they’re forced to confront themselves and each other in the face of survival. The book tackles big themes—grief, fear, courage, and connection—while keeping readers on edge, making Blackloop a captivating read for anyone who enjoys thrillers with a sci-fi edge.
⚫️Blackloop is an intense and atmospheric read that combines psychological suspense with a touch of romance and sci-fi intrigue. Sarah Holding creates a memorable story that will stay with you, especially if you enjoy tales of resilience in unexpected, unsettling settings.
Happy reading ❤️✨
⚫️The concept of blackloop as a hidden energy device introduced beneath the building adds a unique sci-fi twist that becomes a crucial character itself, influencing the events and individuals trapped inside. Holding’s portrayal of how “blackloop” affects not only the physical environment but the minds of those near it creates a sense of dread that escalates with every page.
⚫️Character dynamics play a vital role in Blackloop, adding layers of tension and conflict beyond the central mystery. Bo, grappling with the loss of her mother, emerges as a relatable and resilient protagonist, balancing vulnerability with determination. Her interactions with Karim, along with the slow development of their relationship, feel authentic and tender, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.
⚫️Holding’s writing is clear, concise, and beautifully evocative, capturing both the high-stakes tension of the plot and the introspective nature of the characters’ experiences. The prose flows effortlessly, guiding the reader through action-packed scenes while also pausing to explore the psychological and philosophical depth of the story. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, and the pacing is expertly handled—there’s always something driving the story forward, whether it’s a moment of suspense or a new revelation that reshapes the narrative.
⚫️This novel shines in its blend of thriller elements and interpersonal drama. Each teen has their own strengths and weaknesses, making the group dynamic complex and interesting, as they’re forced to confront themselves and each other in the face of survival. The book tackles big themes—grief, fear, courage, and connection—while keeping readers on edge, making Blackloop a captivating read for anyone who enjoys thrillers with a sci-fi edge.
⚫️Blackloop is an intense and atmospheric read that combines psychological suspense with a touch of romance and sci-fi intrigue. Sarah Holding creates a memorable story that will stay with you, especially if you enjoy tales of resilience in unexpected, unsettling settings.
Happy reading ❤️✨
November 22, 2023
In the electrifying novel "Blackloop" author Sarah Holding weaves a thrilling tale of survival, teenage angst, and the unexpected consequences of a mysterious electro-magnetic pulse. Set against the backdrop of the British seaside resort of Blackpool, the story unfolds with seven teenagers, led by the resilient 17-year-old Bo, navigating the challenges of an unprecedented event.
The narrative immediately grabs readers' attention as the characters grapple with their confinement and the mysteries surrounding the pulse. The author skillfully explores the dynamics of the group, highlighting the complexities of teenage personalities, egos, and interpersonal relationships. The dialogue is authentic, capturing the distinctive voices and struggles of each character as they confront the uncertainties of their predicament.
At the heart of the story lies the discovery of the powerful energy device, blackloop, hidden beneath the building. The implications of this device add layers of intrigue and suspense to the narrative, creating a sense of urgency that propels the story forward. As blackloop's effects unfold, the characters must confront not only the external threat but also their internal fears and emotions.
Bo, still mourning the loss of her mother, emerges as a compelling and relatable protagonist. Her journey of self-discovery, courage, and the budding romance with Karim adds a poignant layer to the narrative. The author masterfully intertwines the personal struggles of the characters with the larger, looming threat of blackloop, creating a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and action-packed.
The pacing of the novel is well-executed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the plot unfolds. The unexpected twists and turns contribute to the overall suspense, making "Blackloop" a captivating read for fans of young adult fiction, science fiction, and coming-of-age stories.
The narrative immediately grabs readers' attention as the characters grapple with their confinement and the mysteries surrounding the pulse. The author skillfully explores the dynamics of the group, highlighting the complexities of teenage personalities, egos, and interpersonal relationships. The dialogue is authentic, capturing the distinctive voices and struggles of each character as they confront the uncertainties of their predicament.
At the heart of the story lies the discovery of the powerful energy device, blackloop, hidden beneath the building. The implications of this device add layers of intrigue and suspense to the narrative, creating a sense of urgency that propels the story forward. As blackloop's effects unfold, the characters must confront not only the external threat but also their internal fears and emotions.
Bo, still mourning the loss of her mother, emerges as a compelling and relatable protagonist. Her journey of self-discovery, courage, and the budding romance with Karim adds a poignant layer to the narrative. The author masterfully intertwines the personal struggles of the characters with the larger, looming threat of blackloop, creating a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and action-packed.
The pacing of the novel is well-executed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the plot unfolds. The unexpected twists and turns contribute to the overall suspense, making "Blackloop" a captivating read for fans of young adult fiction, science fiction, and coming-of-age stories.
November 20, 2024
Set against the somber background of a British seaside hamlet, Sarah Holding's Blackloop is a compelling fusion of science fiction, survival drama, and coming-of-age themes. An lascinating blend of mystery and tension is presented by the plot, which revolves around a group of youngsters who are caught by an electromagnetic pulse and must conterid with both personal issues and exterior threats.
✨The protagonist, Bo, who is 17 years old, is a strong figure who bears the story's emotional burden. Her path gains depth from her anguish over her mother's passing, which also makes her difficulties with vulnerability and bravery understandable. In contrast to the high-stakes drama of the activated blackloop device, the sensitive subplot introduced by the relationship between Bo and Karim provides emotional solace.
✨The story is given an eerie edge by the setting, Blackpool. The town, which is well known for its busy tourist and entertainment venues, is eerily transformed into a place of captivity, which heightens the stress. Their lives' disarray and connection are symbolized by the blackloop device, a strange and potent technological advancement.
✨Fast-paced, high-stakes action and careful examination of issues like grief, resiliency, and the ties that emerge in hardship appear to coexist in Holding's story. As the gang attempts to solve the blackloop's mystery and avoid its consequences, the dynamics among the confined youths promise conflicts, alliances, and personal development, keeping readers interested.
✨Fans of YA thrillers with a sci-fi bent, like One of Us Is Lying or The 5th Wave, might lind this novel ideal. It is a promising addition to the genre because of its combination of intense suspense and heartbreaking character development
✨The protagonist, Bo, who is 17 years old, is a strong figure who bears the story's emotional burden. Her path gains depth from her anguish over her mother's passing, which also makes her difficulties with vulnerability and bravery understandable. In contrast to the high-stakes drama of the activated blackloop device, the sensitive subplot introduced by the relationship between Bo and Karim provides emotional solace.
✨The story is given an eerie edge by the setting, Blackpool. The town, which is well known for its busy tourist and entertainment venues, is eerily transformed into a place of captivity, which heightens the stress. Their lives' disarray and connection are symbolized by the blackloop device, a strange and potent technological advancement.
✨Fast-paced, high-stakes action and careful examination of issues like grief, resiliency, and the ties that emerge in hardship appear to coexist in Holding's story. As the gang attempts to solve the blackloop's mystery and avoid its consequences, the dynamics among the confined youths promise conflicts, alliances, and personal development, keeping readers interested.
✨Fans of YA thrillers with a sci-fi bent, like One of Us Is Lying or The 5th Wave, might lind this novel ideal. It is a promising addition to the genre because of its combination of intense suspense and heartbreaking character development
November 15, 2024
📚Book:- " Blackloop "
Author:- Sarah Holding
📚My Review:- The book " Blackloop " written by Sarah Holding is a tale of friendship, survival, struggle, grief and more. Seventeen years old Boy & six other teenagers got trapped inside a building in the British seaside resort of Black pool after a sudden electromagnetic pulse. They discovered a powerful energy device called the Blackloop hidden within the building, mysteriously affecting everything around them. The book not only beautifully portrays the struggles of the individuals as they tried to escape but also highlight the courage the characters hold. Despite all their personal issues, ego, they had to do something to get out. Do you think they will be able to get out ?? Bo's journey of battling the loss of her mother, courage & budding romance with Karim typically makes the book more interesting to read. Learn how Bo & the other six nagivates the challenges of an unforgettable event. The pace is well balanced allowing the readers time to understand & imagine the events. The character were well developed with a engrossing plot. I would definitely recommend this book to every reader out there.
Author:- Sarah Holding
📚My Review:- The book " Blackloop " written by Sarah Holding is a tale of friendship, survival, struggle, grief and more. Seventeen years old Boy & six other teenagers got trapped inside a building in the British seaside resort of Black pool after a sudden electromagnetic pulse. They discovered a powerful energy device called the Blackloop hidden within the building, mysteriously affecting everything around them. The book not only beautifully portrays the struggles of the individuals as they tried to escape but also highlight the courage the characters hold. Despite all their personal issues, ego, they had to do something to get out. Do you think they will be able to get out ?? Bo's journey of battling the loss of her mother, courage & budding romance with Karim typically makes the book more interesting to read. Learn how Bo & the other six nagivates the challenges of an unforgettable event. The pace is well balanced allowing the readers time to understand & imagine the events. The character were well developed with a engrossing plot. I would definitely recommend this book to every reader out there.
January 11, 2024
Wow, this is a great read in the sci-fi world and perfect for the designated age group.
The characters are believable and the situations feel real. Even in a non real world.
The worldbuilding is fascinating, and the story is thrilling.
What a wonderful job of keeping the reader invested in the book and its characters to the very end!
The characters are believable and the situations feel real. Even in a non real world.
The worldbuilding is fascinating, and the story is thrilling.
What a wonderful job of keeping the reader invested in the book and its characters to the very end!
January 10, 2024
Sarah Holding masterfully assumes each character’s strengths, foibles, emotions, and passion in a tale of people-each brought into highly intensive situations that intertwine their lives in surprising ways.
From the get go, there was lots of things happening at once. It was a full ride!
From the get go, there was lots of things happening at once. It was a full ride!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews