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Spearwood Academy One: Episodes 1-5
144 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2014
20 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
A.S. Oren
63 books322 followersI never really know how I should write these things. Do I go the professional, but boring route and talk about myself in the third person (which feels unnatural), or do I do first person, like a dating site? Sadly, second person doesn't work here, that would be cool.
Something like:
You are looking at the profile of GoodReads author A.S. Oren. You know she is a cat person, and owns three of the little fuzzy things.
I digress. I live in Colorado, born and raised here all my life. Like you read above, I have three cats and want a big dog (perhaps an Alaskan Malamute).
I love writing, it's one of the few things I get joy out of and know I'm good at. I've been doing it off and on since I could draw and think I was writing words with backwards sevens and squiggle lines.
I currently work as aghostwriter, graphic artist and editor.
Feel free to friend me or message. I like getting to know other people who like reading and writing, too.
Something like:
You are looking at the profile of GoodReads author A.S. Oren. You know she is a cat person, and owns three of the little fuzzy things.
I digress. I live in Colorado, born and raised here all my life. Like you read above, I have three cats and want a big dog (perhaps an Alaskan Malamute).
I love writing, it's one of the few things I get joy out of and know I'm good at. I've been doing it off and on since I could draw and think I was writing words with backwards sevens and squiggle lines.
I currently work as a
Feel free to friend me or message. I like getting to know other people who like reading and writing, too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 6, 2014
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review*
What would you do if you've changed into a dragon every night since you can remember? Well Avalon can and doesn't know why. However she is given the opportunity to attend Spearwood Academy where all her questions can be answered. Well that's what she thinks.
A. S. Oren bring us an incredible story with an amazing protagonist who is a teenager that know what she wants.
If you are looking a fabulous short story, this is your book.
If you are looking for a drama story, this is your book.
If you are looking for a comic story, this is your book.
If you are looking for a suspense story, this is your book.
What would you do if you've changed into a dragon every night since you can remember? Well Avalon can and doesn't know why. However she is given the opportunity to attend Spearwood Academy where all her questions can be answered. Well that's what she thinks.
A. S. Oren bring us an incredible story with an amazing protagonist who is a teenager that know what she wants.
If you are looking a fabulous short story, this is your book.
If you are looking for a drama story, this is your book.
If you are looking for a comic story, this is your book.
If you are looking for a suspense story, this is your book.
August 5, 2016
***I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the author for giving me this opportinity!***
Millian years ago, a town of magic users, were given power to shift into one of the five elemental serpents—what modern man calls dragons. In time their powers began to feed their greed. They started using the powers to take what they wanted. After countless arrogant acts, a powerful queen cursed their female kin. Unable to watch their child suffer (because the transformation to dragon form suddenly became painful and out of their control) women who gave birth to one of these cursed baby girls would snap their neck after the first day to end the suffering. One woman however wished her baby girl to live and secretly sent her away. This is Avalon’s -the only surviving female dragon user’s story.
After surviving 15 years, she is offered to go to a special academy that her kind, the other dragons shifters attends with a catch; since she is the only female of her kind the school is filled with boys.
Seems interesting right? It really is. But unfortunately this is not a book for everyone.
Here is the deal. Growing up, I LOVED the anime. Even after reaching a certain age, I never stopped being so obsessed about it. But the real obsession came after discovering the reverse harem.
Oh boy. Looking back now, I understand that what I was doing was torturing myself. If you dont know, the reverse harem is a popular theme in Shoujo and romance novels targeting a female where a single (often ordinary) girl is liked and followed by a bunch of handsome men (3 or more. FOR MOST OF THE TIME MORE!!!) who are all madly in love with her. The girl often cannot pick which guy she should go out with and remains indecisive.
1 girl.. several guys… fighting for her affection.
Whats not to love?
Except after a while it gets old because in the end the girl rarely chooses one of the guys. She just has a special and different kind of bond with each of them and thats it. They are just there to look at, all pretty and nice but in the end nobody gets picked. And it annoys the hell out of me. I cant even get mad that my guy didn’t get picked. (*cries* my guys never get picked!!!)
Notable examples and my recommendations for the reverse harem are; Fushigi Yugi, Vol. 1,Fruits Basket, Volume 01,The Wallflower, Vol. 1,Pretear,Ouran High School Host Club, Vol. 01,La Corda d'Oro, Volume 1,Hanasakeru Seishounen, Hakuouki, Angelique series
aaaand this book!
Yup, this book is filled with reverse harem stuff. So yeah, this book not for you if you dont like that stuff or think it is cheesy. Reverse harem stuff is supposed to be cheesey man, get used to it!
All the signs are there;
-One single girl
-Many hot boys
-They walk with her to everywhere
-They protect her
-The archetypes; the bad boy, bishie/pretty boy, the flirtatious guy, lone wolf, megane (people who wear glasses) are all there. We are missing twins, the childhood friend and the older guy but it's still early for them :)
-When the royal guy comes and the way he acts (lol, you may think it's way too cheesy but since I am a big anime fan and can clearly visualise it on my head I was laughing so hard)
And I love it. I love these. I dont wanna admit to myself but I've missed reading/watching/playing a good reverse harem. This one -while is not perfect- so far it's a good example. Only if there wasnt any insta-love it'd have been perfect.
*Sigh* Oh my dear Avalon, why the hell you are lusting after Kearn because he has pretty eyes? What's so special about him other than that? You just had like two 'small' conversations with him, he is a servant and isnt my boy Triton more interesting even though he is completely forgotten after the other boys comes to the picture?! (Yeah, that annoyed me a lot, by the way!!!)
(Oh my heart hurts because of shipping. And the fact that my shipping doesnt even completely makes sense hurts even more *sigh*)
The other issues I had;
-When Avalon meets with Horace King and his gang for the first time, Avalon say there is a noticeable tension in the air between him and Triton but then this tension is completely forgotten. What the hell was that?! Why is suddenly all is well between them?!
-There are too much pop culture references and usually in wrong places. Dont get me wrong, I love references, I live for them but these were just a bit too much. I get why Avalon remembers or depends on them a lot. She basically had no real friends, she was home schooled etc but some of the references were out of the place. For example;
He’s getting fairly close to my personal space. I feel like saying, “Cas, we’ve talked about this. Personal space?” But I’m sure the reference will go straight over his head,ironic.
Does it fit the situation? Oh, yes. Do I love Supernatural and Cas? A big yes. However, this is too much. I can say the same thing for Doctor who references too, unfortunately even though I completely loved seeing them!
-Triton is completely forgotten!!! He becomes a background character. I really thought he was interesting when we first met him
-It's too short. It ends with a cliffhanger. I must go and read the other episodes. Damn. I must read them like right now!!!
Overall; This would make a great anime! Avalon was a really interesting character. I also enjoyed the other characters as well. They needed little bit more development but this was like 150 pages -5 episodes- so maybe it's still early for that. The world-building is really awesome -on the page- but it definitely needs to improve. Some explanations for these cool stuff like the cards that turn into servants (whatever the hell they are I love them) is definitely necessary. I felt like 'it is what it is' or 'this is magic' was used too much as an excuse. Other than that, really really great stuff. It definitely has potential.
August 26, 2014
*****I recieved a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*****
This story is set in modern times, and is centred on Avalon, the only living female dragon user of her time. Avalon lives in Bellingham, Washington with Edgar, her adoptive dad, who found her near his barn as a baby with just a blanket and a piece of paper with her name. Imagine his shock when the baby he found that day turned into a dragon at night, but he kept her and raised her as his own.
Now almost 15 years later, she changes forcibly into a dragon every night, and still has no idea why. But on her 15th birthday, she gets a shock. She's being sent to Spearwood Academy, an all boys boarding school in Tibet! Where all the students are like her. Will she finally know the truth?
Why does Avvi (Avalon) change each night?
Because of The Gypsy Curse.
MC aka Avalon: She's an advanced learner like moi!! *fist pump* And 15 and has been homeschooled!! ;DD A country girl who grew up on an orchard owned by her adopted dad Edgar, she's not afraid to get her hands dirty, aaandd, she's not vain, but nor does she have low self esteem. She's just happy how she is, which lends confidence and strength.
We could almost be twins!! o.O Except I don't have an adoptive dad nor did I grow up in da country, she's got blonde hair while I'm a brunette, there's no way she's as short as me *sulks*, and I don't shift into a dragon :P *giggles* Ohh yeaaah, and I'm waaayy more fashion obsessed.....I'M NOT VAIN THO OKAYY!?!! *huffs* XPP
Love interest(s)?
No love interests have been particularly chalked in yet, tho there has been some attraction, at least on Avvi's side........*opens mouth*......*smirks and zips lips*
Ships I may be rooting for:
Maaaybeee Triton and Avvi, but I have a feeling it's not gonna happen ;( *pouts*
There's definitely apparent greed and arrogance shown by the families (the dragon magic using society of sorts which are descended from the original town 1000 years back), shoved in your face each every way you look. The school with it's marble floors and gold gilding, the expansive rooms, the stuck up boys and self important men. And then there is the occasional and laughable royal teen:
Royal Teen: Hello. You're now my fiancée!
Avvi: *mouth gapes like a fish* Na-uhh get lost! So not happening!
Me: *chokes and falls over laughing*
It seems to be a male run world, which is a little annoying, but there isn't any emphasis on sexism, thank goodness *one point to Oren*.......in fact there's no mention on females within the families AT ALL o.O even tho you'd obviously have to have females marrying into the families for the gene lines to continue. I guess there just hasn't been any mention yet *shrugs*
“Our library carries non-fiction and fiction with the latest in everything. You must keep your grades up if you wish to use any of these things, with the exception of the non-fiction area of the library. Your personal assistant acts as a key. If your grades are good, you will be able to open any of these doors. If your grades fall below a 3.8, these doors will be locked to you until they are satisfactory again.”
Well at least they aren’t all fun and games. At least they take education seriously.”
Oh wow o.O *cracks up* XD I call bribery!
The plot:
Mmm. Well I think this wasn't actually that bad! This is a pretty good premise; though it doesn't manage to create any ominous feels. If I must admit, this story is neither dark, or mature. But it was fun, more like a dragon and magic filled plot mixed with elements of the likes of Harry Potter and Alex Rider.
“Ah, but Miss Clementine, this is no normal jet. Not even your Government has this technology yet. They can have it when we find something better. This machine can cross time.”
Me: o.O Whaaa? No jet can 'cross time'......*pauses* Ohh. Right. Magical. XD
The writing:
The way the story of the Gypsy Curse was written made me keep imaging Hermione telling the story of the three brother's and Death. XD
As for the writing in the rest of this book/novella, I was pleasantly surprised. I've read books by both traditionally published authors from the likes of Harpercollins, and new indie authors, and A. S. Oren's writing was quite well done and enjoyable! Of course it could be improved on, but it was up to standard so that I didn't find the writing choppy or unsophisticated, which is good *high fives Oren* XD
Cons:
The back-story, with how the dragons came to be:
I don't really get how this all works.....o.O I mean, almost all the elemental forms when related to the nature of the person mentions 'kindness' etc. If the majority were so veryy nice indeed, why did they pillage towns? The 'personalities' of the dragon magic users don't seem to match up with their actions at all :/
The cliffhanger:
*pouts* Reallyyyyyyy Oren?!?!?! XDD Stopping it in the middle of that? Meanieeeee *sulks* ;D
The length:
Too shortt!!! *screeches* :P
Speculation:
The 'bond' thingy with Avvi and Amr:
What dragon type is Avalon:
Thanks for letting me read this, Oren! ;D It was a good read, albeit short.....*sigh* I think I'll rwead more soon if I can figure out how to. *searches around*
3.5 stars
—MissBloodsucker™ All Sucked Out!
This story is set in modern times, and is centred on Avalon, the only living female dragon user of her time. Avalon lives in Bellingham, Washington with Edgar, her adoptive dad, who found her near his barn as a baby with just a blanket and a piece of paper with her name. Imagine his shock when the baby he found that day turned into a dragon at night, but he kept her and raised her as his own.
Now almost 15 years later, she changes forcibly into a dragon every night, and still has no idea why. But on her 15th birthday, she gets a shock. She's being sent to Spearwood Academy, an all boys boarding school in Tibet! Where all the students are like her. Will she finally know the truth?
Why does Avvi (Avalon) change each night?
Because of The Gypsy Curse.
MC aka Avalon: She's an advanced learner like moi!! *fist pump* And 15 and has been homeschooled!! ;DD A country girl who grew up on an orchard owned by her adopted dad Edgar, she's not afraid to get her hands dirty, aaandd, she's not vain, but nor does she have low self esteem. She's just happy how she is, which lends confidence and strength.
We could almost be twins!! o.O Except I don't have an adoptive dad nor did I grow up in da country, she's got blonde hair while I'm a brunette, there's no way she's as short as me *sulks*, and I don't shift into a dragon :P *giggles* Ohh yeaaah, and I'm waaayy more fashion obsessed.....I'M NOT VAIN THO OKAYY!?!! *huffs* XPP
Love interest(s)?
No love interests have been particularly chalked in yet, tho there has been some attraction, at least on Avvi's side........*opens mouth*......*smirks and zips lips*
Ships I may be rooting for:
Maaaybeee Triton and Avvi, but I have a feeling it's not gonna happen ;( *pouts*
There's definitely apparent greed and arrogance shown by the families (the dragon magic using society of sorts which are descended from the original town 1000 years back), shoved in your face each every way you look. The school with it's marble floors and gold gilding, the expansive rooms, the stuck up boys and self important men. And then there is the occasional and laughable royal teen:
Royal Teen: Hello. You're now my fiancée!
Avvi: *mouth gapes like a fish* Na-uhh get lost! So not happening!
Me: *chokes and falls over laughing*
It seems to be a male run world, which is a little annoying, but there isn't any emphasis on sexism, thank goodness *one point to Oren*.......in fact there's no mention on females within the families AT ALL o.O even tho you'd obviously have to have females marrying into the families for the gene lines to continue. I guess there just hasn't been any mention yet *shrugs*
“Our library carries non-fiction and fiction with the latest in everything. You must keep your grades up if you wish to use any of these things, with the exception of the non-fiction area of the library. Your personal assistant acts as a key. If your grades are good, you will be able to open any of these doors. If your grades fall below a 3.8, these doors will be locked to you until they are satisfactory again.”
Well at least they aren’t all fun and games. At least they take education seriously.”
Oh wow o.O *cracks up* XD I call bribery!
The plot:
Mmm. Well I think this wasn't actually that bad! This is a pretty good premise; though it doesn't manage to create any ominous feels. If I must admit, this story is neither dark, or mature. But it was fun, more like a dragon and magic filled plot mixed with elements of the likes of Harry Potter and Alex Rider.
“Ah, but Miss Clementine, this is no normal jet. Not even your Government has this technology yet. They can have it when we find something better. This machine can cross time.”
Me: o.O Whaaa? No jet can 'cross time'......*pauses* Ohh. Right. Magical. XD
The writing:
The way the story of the Gypsy Curse was written made me keep imaging Hermione telling the story of the three brother's and Death. XD
As for the writing in the rest of this book/novella, I was pleasantly surprised. I've read books by both traditionally published authors from the likes of Harpercollins, and new indie authors, and A. S. Oren's writing was quite well done and enjoyable! Of course it could be improved on, but it was up to standard so that I didn't find the writing choppy or unsophisticated, which is good *high fives Oren* XD
Cons:
The back-story, with how the dragons came to be:
I don't really get how this all works.....o.O I mean, almost all the elemental forms when related to the nature of the person mentions 'kindness' etc. If the majority were so veryy nice indeed, why did they pillage towns? The 'personalities' of the dragon magic users don't seem to match up with their actions at all :/
The cliffhanger:
*pouts* Reallyyyyyyy Oren?!?!?! XDD Stopping it in the middle of that? Meanieeeee *sulks* ;D
The length:
Too shortt!!! *screeches* :P
Speculation:
The 'bond' thingy with Avvi and Amr:
What dragon type is Avalon:
Thanks for letting me read this, Oren! ;D It was a good read, albeit short.....*sigh* I think I'll rwead more soon if I can figure out how to. *searches around*
3.5 stars
—MissBloodsucker™ All Sucked Out!
May 16, 2014
Spearwood Academy Volume 1 by A.S. Oren follows the story of a young girl Avalon Clementine who every night since birth turns into a dragon. Abandoned as an infant and raised by a kind farmer, she believes she is a monster and the only one of her kind. Turns out at 15, she isn't the only one and finds herself attending Spearwood Academy, an all boys boarding school. And guess what? The boys all turn to dragons too, but they can control it and turn only parts of themselves and are not forced to change with the moon. So Avalon who was alone, now finds herself in a world of magic and mystery as she tries to discover the truth about her curse.
I really, really liked the characters of this series. Avalon is a jaded 15 year old girl. Too smart for regular school, her adoptive father had to homeschool her. Then with her curse of turning to a dragon every night, she is a loner because no one can know her secret. When she finds out about Spearwood Academy, she's both intrigued and scared to find others like her. Then she's annoyed when she finds out she's the only girl at this all boys school. I found her character funny, mature for her age, and definitely with a big chip on her shoulder. Yet she's also brave in facing this unknown world and quick-witted with the boys who test/tease her.
I fell in love with her gaggle of boys that take up with her on her first day at the academy. Triton, Dante, Amr, and Horace are tasked with showing her the ropes of the school and their characters are diverse and funny! Triton is the first boy to meet Avalon and he is a little snobbish at least to Avalon. Horace is the first-year class president and too refined for her. Dante is a flirt and highly outspoken, he's also the comic relief. Amr is familiar to Avalon though she doesn't know why and she takes an instant liking to him (just a friendship liking). What I truly liked about the characters of this series is that the author doesn't force the relationships, or make any corny romance out of Avalon's friendships with the boys. In fact, she is treated like one of the guys, which bothers Avalon a little, but not enough for her to complain. It's the first time she's ever had friends.
The plot really centers around Avalon discovering more and more about the reason she turns to a dragon and the world of magic it entails. She's given small pieces at a time and winds up more confused with the more information she receives. Lots of action!!!
The world-building is awesome as the detail of the dragons and their magic are slowly revealed. The only dislike I had was there was some repetitiveness, however this volume was originally published in 5 episodes, a month apart. So the things that are repeated are more as a reminder for those of us that were not lucky enough to read them in one volume. The story flows well and is fast-paced, making it a page-turner.
Also I kinda loved the pop culture references!! The author throws in a lot of Harry Potter, Doctor Who, and even some Princess Bride quotes and references that only true fans would get, like the below quote...
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really, really liked the characters of this series. Avalon is a jaded 15 year old girl. Too smart for regular school, her adoptive father had to homeschool her. Then with her curse of turning to a dragon every night, she is a loner because no one can know her secret. When she finds out about Spearwood Academy, she's both intrigued and scared to find others like her. Then she's annoyed when she finds out she's the only girl at this all boys school. I found her character funny, mature for her age, and definitely with a big chip on her shoulder. Yet she's also brave in facing this unknown world and quick-witted with the boys who test/tease her.
I fell in love with her gaggle of boys that take up with her on her first day at the academy. Triton, Dante, Amr, and Horace are tasked with showing her the ropes of the school and their characters are diverse and funny! Triton is the first boy to meet Avalon and he is a little snobbish at least to Avalon. Horace is the first-year class president and too refined for her. Dante is a flirt and highly outspoken, he's also the comic relief. Amr is familiar to Avalon though she doesn't know why and she takes an instant liking to him (just a friendship liking). What I truly liked about the characters of this series is that the author doesn't force the relationships, or make any corny romance out of Avalon's friendships with the boys. In fact, she is treated like one of the guys, which bothers Avalon a little, but not enough for her to complain. It's the first time she's ever had friends.
The plot really centers around Avalon discovering more and more about the reason she turns to a dragon and the world of magic it entails. She's given small pieces at a time and winds up more confused with the more information she receives. Lots of action!!!
The world-building is awesome as the detail of the dragons and their magic are slowly revealed. The only dislike I had was there was some repetitiveness, however this volume was originally published in 5 episodes, a month apart. So the things that are repeated are more as a reminder for those of us that were not lucky enough to read them in one volume. The story flows well and is fast-paced, making it a page-turner.
Also I kinda loved the pop culture references!! The author throws in a lot of Harry Potter, Doctor Who, and even some Princess Bride quotes and references that only true fans would get, like the below quote...
Give me Severus Snape, the hot one in my head, or the Eleventh doctor, he would do too; those two are older men that could make me swoon. -AvalonOverall I highly recommend this series if you are looking for a quick, fun read. It's fast-paced, action packed with some mystery and lots of fantasy. Also it's appropriate for all ages, not just the young adult audience. The author kept it clean with only mild violence. FYI if you do not like cliff hangers, be forewarned, each episode ends in a major cliff hanger!!! So if you enjoy fantasy, short stories, pop culture references and young adult lit, I highly recommend you check out this series. (Episodes 6 & 7 are already out and I read them as well, they are just as good!!)
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2014
**Received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
A. S. Oren has written an incredible work. This is my first fantasy/paranormal novel involving dragons and I must say I am highly impressed!
Years ago magic users prayed to the Sun god for powers to make it through rough times. The Sun god answered them by giving them the power to shift into one of the five elemental dragons: Fire, Water, Air, Earth and Metal. Their greed led a female dragon to kill Queen Sibi's female lover. Because of that she cursed female dragons to experience pain when shifting to a dragon. From that point on women stayed in human form and mothers killed their female babies so they wouldn't endure the pain. All but one female...
This is a story following Avalon Celementine. She is the last female dragon of her kind due to curse that was placed on the women. Her mother had her sent away. She was taken in by Edgar who raised her like a daughter even though he knew about her dragon form.
Spearwood Academy has been sending Edgar letters for years wanting to take Avalon and teach her about her heritage along with learning more about herself. The day after her fifteenth birthday she goes to Spearwood Academy to learn about her dragon self and background. While their she must learn her element, survive the survival test and learn who she is.
Avalon, being the only girl there must learn to be herself. The witty remarks she makes to her new group of friends, which are all guys, is hilarious. Avalon learns to break out of her shell because she is around people like herself.
The ending definitely leaves a cliff hanger, so I definitely have to find out what happens next!
A. S. Oren has written an incredible work. This is my first fantasy/paranormal novel involving dragons and I must say I am highly impressed!
Years ago magic users prayed to the Sun god for powers to make it through rough times. The Sun god answered them by giving them the power to shift into one of the five elemental dragons: Fire, Water, Air, Earth and Metal. Their greed led a female dragon to kill Queen Sibi's female lover. Because of that she cursed female dragons to experience pain when shifting to a dragon. From that point on women stayed in human form and mothers killed their female babies so they wouldn't endure the pain. All but one female...
This is a story following Avalon Celementine. She is the last female dragon of her kind due to curse that was placed on the women. Her mother had her sent away. She was taken in by Edgar who raised her like a daughter even though he knew about her dragon form.
Spearwood Academy has been sending Edgar letters for years wanting to take Avalon and teach her about her heritage along with learning more about herself. The day after her fifteenth birthday she goes to Spearwood Academy to learn about her dragon self and background. While their she must learn her element, survive the survival test and learn who she is.
Avalon, being the only girl there must learn to be herself. The witty remarks she makes to her new group of friends, which are all guys, is hilarious. Avalon learns to break out of her shell because she is around people like herself.
The ending definitely leaves a cliff hanger, so I definitely have to find out what happens next!
February 2, 2015
>>> I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.(LoP or Lovers of Paranormal) <<<
4.5 Magical stars
I was pleasantly surprised with Spearwood Academy. It's been a decade or more since the time I read Harry Potter , but I got many hp vibes and I trully enjoyed it! Along with the referances of shows like Supernatural, Doctor Who etc. that made it seem contemporary , but with the fantasy part combined beautifully all together.
Avalon is a 15 year old girl who turns into dragon every night since she could remember herself. She was abandoned by her parents and a farmer had found her and raised her. I really liked her relationship with Ed, btw. :)
She learns on her 15th birthday that there's a school for people like her and they want her to join them. Since she has a lot of questions that no one else seem able to answer them for her, she goes to Spearwood Academy.
The thing is that because of a curse that Avalon doesn't seem to know, she's the only female dragon in that school. I liked the fact that she seemed to act like a normal teenage girl around guys. And of course I loved watching their reactions around her. The friendships that are building, but I'm so curious to see their feelings about her. I would love to read their POV and be able to see what they trully think of her. Who wants her as a friend and who has deeper feelings than that?
I would definitely recommend it & I'm so curious to see how this story will continue :)
4.5 Magical stars
I was pleasantly surprised with Spearwood Academy. It's been a decade or more since the time I read Harry Potter , but I got many hp vibes and I trully enjoyed it! Along with the referances of shows like Supernatural, Doctor Who etc. that made it seem contemporary , but with the fantasy part combined beautifully all together.
Avalon is a 15 year old girl who turns into dragon every night since she could remember herself. She was abandoned by her parents and a farmer had found her and raised her. I really liked her relationship with Ed, btw. :)
She learns on her 15th birthday that there's a school for people like her and they want her to join them. Since she has a lot of questions that no one else seem able to answer them for her, she goes to Spearwood Academy.
The thing is that because of a curse that Avalon doesn't seem to know, she's the only female dragon in that school. I liked the fact that she seemed to act like a normal teenage girl around guys. And of course I loved watching their reactions around her. The friendships that are building, but I'm so curious to see their feelings about her. I would love to read their POV and be able to see what they trully think of her. Who wants her as a friend and who has deeper feelings than that?
I would definitely recommend it & I'm so curious to see how this story will continue :)
August 14, 2014
***I was given an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
First of all I'd like to say thank you to wonderful A. S. Oren for giving me the opportunity to read and review the whole first season (episodes 1-5). It was quite a fantastic read that I finished this book in practically no time.
This book's became an old friend for me - together we remembered my teenage years crush - that is the story of Harry Potter and his friends. It was like meeting somebody who knows and understands me. But please do not say that the plot is just the same it's absolutely not. A. S. Orsen managed to create her own unique world full of mysteries, enemies and friends of course.
Sometimes I envied Avvi so much that I wanted to cry. An all boy school and she is the only girl there - it's like heaven, don't you think? Because it totally is. But there was time that I was glad that I'm not this poor cursed girl surrounded by people but alone. I recommend all fantasy lovers to devour this book. It's worth your time and reading.
Have I mentioned that it ended in a terribly huge cliffhanger? I want continuation. Immediately!
First of all I'd like to say thank you to wonderful A. S. Oren for giving me the opportunity to read and review the whole first season (episodes 1-5). It was quite a fantastic read that I finished this book in practically no time.
This book's became an old friend for me - together we remembered my teenage years crush - that is the story of Harry Potter and his friends. It was like meeting somebody who knows and understands me. But please do not say that the plot is just the same it's absolutely not. A. S. Orsen managed to create her own unique world full of mysteries, enemies and friends of course.
Sometimes I envied Avvi so much that I wanted to cry. An all boy school and she is the only girl there - it's like heaven, don't you think? Because it totally is. But there was time that I was glad that I'm not this poor cursed girl surrounded by people but alone. I recommend all fantasy lovers to devour this book. It's worth your time and reading.
Have I mentioned that it ended in a terribly huge cliffhanger? I want continuation. Immediately!
May 4, 2014
*This book was given to me by the Author for an honest review*
I can not tell you how much I enjoyed this book. Dragon shape shifters, what more can I say? Well, the main character(Avalon) is such a strong, down to earth girl. She has values that most of the others at Spearwood Academy lack. Her trust in her upbringing and her father has created in her an unstoppable self assurance. Her classmates are all boys. The reason she is the only girl at the school is still a mystery to her. With all of the greed and violence facing her, she still has the fortitude to help the ones who hurt her the most. She has found her clique of friends. I look forward to reading the rest of this series. A must read.
October 18, 2014
So I enjoyed this book, it had a good storyline and I liked the heroine. I missed the Read to Review from Lovers of Paranormal but I ended up buying this book because the synopsis was really good!
What I liked:
The heroine is strong, she's young she's scared but she's gritting her teeth and dealing with what's been given to her without whining or being a baby about it. I liked how she wasn't treated like she was some precious jewel or a horrible disease by the boys at the school. Sure she got stares but she got a group of friends that just teased her and treated her how a normal group of teens would (minus the secretiveness and shape shifting).
The book/volume ended with a pretty good ending, it definitely ended so that the reader will want/have to buy the next episode to the book.
What I didn't like:
There's quite a bit so I'll do it in bullet points.
- Formatting is off? The sentences got weird a few times while I was reading it on my kindle. The font sizes change from the size I want to a smaller one, the same font problems persist in the other books (episodes 6-12). I have 2 screenshots of the sentence formatting errors. I can upload them with the Author's permission.
- Characters around the heroine act too rashly or just suddenly ok with her. Her phone calls with her father are short and I can't see the love/relationship between them, the guys became friends with her too well like it was all set up for her and she didn't have to look for people to be friends with her they were put into her group. I wanted to see more struggle with her trying to fit in a school full of boys and see her be by herself but from the moment she enters the school she's surrounded by friends.
- Spoiler about the father
- Spoiler about the heroine's hobbies
- Spoiler about Triton
This was an ok introduction to the world, the ending is what made me get the other books and I'm glad because it got better.
What I liked:
The heroine is strong, she's young she's scared but she's gritting her teeth and dealing with what's been given to her without whining or being a baby about it. I liked how she wasn't treated like she was some precious jewel or a horrible disease by the boys at the school. Sure she got stares but she got a group of friends that just teased her and treated her how a normal group of teens would (minus the secretiveness and shape shifting).
The book/volume ended with a pretty good ending, it definitely ended so that the reader will want/have to buy the next episode to the book.
What I didn't like:
There's quite a bit so I'll do it in bullet points.
- Formatting is off? The sentences got weird a few times while I was reading it on my kindle. The font sizes change from the size I want to a smaller one, the same font problems persist in the other books (episodes 6-12). I have 2 screenshots of the sentence formatting errors. I can upload them with the Author's permission.
- Characters around the heroine act too rashly or just suddenly ok with her. Her phone calls with her father are short and I can't see the love/relationship between them, the guys became friends with her too well like it was all set up for her and she didn't have to look for people to be friends with her they were put into her group. I wanted to see more struggle with her trying to fit in a school full of boys and see her be by herself but from the moment she enters the school she's surrounded by friends.
- Spoiler about the father
- Spoiler about the heroine's hobbies
- Spoiler about Triton
This was an ok introduction to the world, the ending is what made me get the other books and I'm glad because it got better.
May 21, 2014
**ARC was kindly provided by the author.**
3.5 stars
This is the story of the only surviving female dragon user and her life with the gypsy curse.
Every night when the moon hits Avalon Clementine sheds her human skin and takes the form of a golden dragon, the process is painful and gruesome. There has never been a time in her life when she hasn't shifted forms yet she has no idea why she is the way she is. Living on her adoptive father's farm she never thought she'd get the answers to all of her questions. That is until she's told she is to attend Spearwood Academy...
Spearwood Academy is an elite school exclusively for dragon users and until the arrival of Avalon has been solely a school for boys. It was thought there were no female dragons left due to an old fued and a gypsy's curse causing pain and suffering to all females born with dragon magic which lead to their demise. It seems Avalon is the only one left, the only girl in s school full of boys. The school is dripping with secrets, the staff, the students, the servants it's clear every one has a secret and an ulterior motive. Seriously you can literally just tell the corruption and secrets are just there, out of reach.
Avalon is taken in by a group of lads, they take her under their wings, (pun intended, haha.) and keep her safe, introducing her to the ways of their world which may as well be a light year away from her old life. Again the boys have secrets, and i have some suspicions about some of them and just who they really are. Alas all the answers are all out of reach of this book, bummer.
This book is volume one/ episodes 1-5 and it's clearly just the introduction into what i suspect is going to be a fabulously fun adventure! The writing style was easy and enjoyable to read i especially loved all the fandom puns, the potterhead in me kept giggling at every little Harry Potter Quip...
'I got my Hogwarts letter finally, the owl just got lost for four years.'
'If Draco Malfoy and Victor Krum had a baby, the spawn would look like this guy.'
This one really had me laughing..
He's getting fairly close to my personal space. I feel like saying, "Cas, we've talked about this. Personal space?" But I'm sure the reference will go straight through them.
[image error]
For me this book started off a tad slow but once Avalon arrived at the school it was a lot more to my liking and i really had fun reading it, the characters were likable and it has a quick enough pace to keep you entertained. The only thing was i wanted more, seriously i wanted answers needed them but left empty handed. I want to know more of the lore, more of the corruption, the secrets, the people, basically i just want more of everything. And holy cliff hangers that was a sucker of one!
I only rated 3.5 stars because like i said it took a little bit for me to get into the story and because of the gaps in the plot even though I'm sure they'll be filled in throughout the rest of the books. If your into dragons, magic, school stories and just want some fun then i highly recommend!
This review is also available at my blog http://walnutwolf.blogspot.co.uk
3.5 stars
This is the story of the only surviving female dragon user and her life with the gypsy curse.
Every night when the moon hits Avalon Clementine sheds her human skin and takes the form of a golden dragon, the process is painful and gruesome. There has never been a time in her life when she hasn't shifted forms yet she has no idea why she is the way she is. Living on her adoptive father's farm she never thought she'd get the answers to all of her questions. That is until she's told she is to attend Spearwood Academy...
Spearwood Academy is an elite school exclusively for dragon users and until the arrival of Avalon has been solely a school for boys. It was thought there were no female dragons left due to an old fued and a gypsy's curse causing pain and suffering to all females born with dragon magic which lead to their demise. It seems Avalon is the only one left, the only girl in s school full of boys. The school is dripping with secrets, the staff, the students, the servants it's clear every one has a secret and an ulterior motive. Seriously you can literally just tell the corruption and secrets are just there, out of reach.
Avalon is taken in by a group of lads, they take her under their wings, (pun intended, haha.) and keep her safe, introducing her to the ways of their world which may as well be a light year away from her old life. Again the boys have secrets, and i have some suspicions about some of them and just who they really are. Alas all the answers are all out of reach of this book, bummer.
This book is volume one/ episodes 1-5 and it's clearly just the introduction into what i suspect is going to be a fabulously fun adventure! The writing style was easy and enjoyable to read i especially loved all the fandom puns, the potterhead in me kept giggling at every little Harry Potter Quip...
'I got my Hogwarts letter finally, the owl just got lost for four years.'
'If Draco Malfoy and Victor Krum had a baby, the spawn would look like this guy.'
This one really had me laughing..
He's getting fairly close to my personal space. I feel like saying, "Cas, we've talked about this. Personal space?" But I'm sure the reference will go straight through them.
[image error]
For me this book started off a tad slow but once Avalon arrived at the school it was a lot more to my liking and i really had fun reading it, the characters were likable and it has a quick enough pace to keep you entertained. The only thing was i wanted more, seriously i wanted answers needed them but left empty handed. I want to know more of the lore, more of the corruption, the secrets, the people, basically i just want more of everything. And holy cliff hangers that was a sucker of one!
I only rated 3.5 stars because like i said it took a little bit for me to get into the story and because of the gaps in the plot even though I'm sure they'll be filled in throughout the rest of the books. If your into dragons, magic, school stories and just want some fun then i highly recommend!
This review is also available at my blog http://walnutwolf.blogspot.co.uk
June 19, 2014
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review*
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
I actually stumbled upon this title when I was looking for books that feature a reverse harem setting and character cast. The synopsis drew me in, especially with the single-girl-in-an-all-boys-school + Harry Potter references which perked my interest from the start. That interest has remained true to the end and I am glad that I was proven right on that point.
Before I move on, I would like to thank the author A.S Oren for letting me to have a chance to peruse this given that Amazon doesn’t offer the Kindle edition in my region.
Plot
The underlying ideas of the plot are original and refreshing, and it helped that there was a broad overview of the history and lore surrounding the dragon shapeshifters right at the start that laid out the setting and context of the story. The descriptions of the academy reminded me partly of Hogwarts, albeit with more gold and royalty. I really liked the remarkable effort spent on depicting the grandiose and beauty of the school as it forms the cornerstone of the overall impression that readers have of this world that Spearwood Academy exists in. However, perhaps due to the brevity of this volume, many plot points have either not been resolved or yet to be fleshed out thoroughly (e.g. Tristan’s supposed “tension” with the other guys). I hope and suppose that important plot points, like the purpose of the academy, the class system within the school etc. will be revealed and developed in the upcoming episodes.
In other words, there isn’t much to say about the plot yet, but the book definitely delivers solidly at this point, with its interesting premise.
Characters
So far, Avalon is shown to be a girl that possesses independence in thought and witty humour at times. I am glad that we are given a peek at the vulnerability and insecurity beneath her tough exterior so she appears more relatable and human. I think the author has done a really good job in describing the pain she endures during her transformation as I really felt for Avalon at that point.
As for the other characters, there is yet to be much development, though characters like Triton appear to be potentially interesting.
Language/Writing style
So why isn’t the score higher? This is in most partly attributed to the writing style used. There are a number of grammatical errors that are sometimes too blatant to ignore. Also, the way some sentences are structured and at times, inappropriate choice of words leaves much to be desired. I really feel that this area can be vastly improved, especially where the core attraction of the story lies with this magical world that Avalon resides in. An increased emphasis in editing would go a long way in pulling up the ratings.
Conclusion : A story with great potential, but more caution with grammar and sentence structure would be great for plot execution and make it a more enjoyable reading experience. I can’t wait to read the next episode, though I would have to receive an ARC of it or a free-copy-in-exchange-for-a-review. *hint hint*
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
I actually stumbled upon this title when I was looking for books that feature a reverse harem setting and character cast. The synopsis drew me in, especially with the single-girl-in-an-all-boys-school + Harry Potter references which perked my interest from the start. That interest has remained true to the end and I am glad that I was proven right on that point.
Before I move on, I would like to thank the author A.S Oren for letting me to have a chance to peruse this given that Amazon doesn’t offer the Kindle edition in my region.
Plot
The underlying ideas of the plot are original and refreshing, and it helped that there was a broad overview of the history and lore surrounding the dragon shapeshifters right at the start that laid out the setting and context of the story. The descriptions of the academy reminded me partly of Hogwarts, albeit with more gold and royalty. I really liked the remarkable effort spent on depicting the grandiose and beauty of the school as it forms the cornerstone of the overall impression that readers have of this world that Spearwood Academy exists in. However, perhaps due to the brevity of this volume, many plot points have either not been resolved or yet to be fleshed out thoroughly (e.g. Tristan’s supposed “tension” with the other guys). I hope and suppose that important plot points, like the purpose of the academy, the class system within the school etc. will be revealed and developed in the upcoming episodes.
In other words, there isn’t much to say about the plot yet, but the book definitely delivers solidly at this point, with its interesting premise.
Characters
So far, Avalon is shown to be a girl that possesses independence in thought and witty humour at times. I am glad that we are given a peek at the vulnerability and insecurity beneath her tough exterior so she appears more relatable and human. I think the author has done a really good job in describing the pain she endures during her transformation as I really felt for Avalon at that point.
As for the other characters, there is yet to be much development, though characters like Triton appear to be potentially interesting.
Language/Writing style
So why isn’t the score higher? This is in most partly attributed to the writing style used. There are a number of grammatical errors that are sometimes too blatant to ignore. Also, the way some sentences are structured and at times, inappropriate choice of words leaves much to be desired. I really feel that this area can be vastly improved, especially where the core attraction of the story lies with this magical world that Avalon resides in. An increased emphasis in editing would go a long way in pulling up the ratings.
Conclusion : A story with great potential, but more caution with grammar and sentence structure would be great for plot execution and make it a more enjoyable reading experience. I can’t wait to read the next episode, though I would have to receive an ARC of it or a free-copy-in-exchange-for-a-review. *hint hint*
April 26, 2014
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
First off, I'd just like to thank the author, A.S. Oren, for providing me with a copy of this volume and giving me the opportunity to enjoy her uniquely crafted world.
Spearwood Academy was fun, creative, mysterious, and even a little dark. Considering this book was my very first R4R and I'd never properly read a dragon story before, I honestly wasn't sure what to expect. Suffice it to say that I wasn't disappointed. It took me a while to get into it, but once I was in, I had to know what was going to happen next. I think the author did a great job of weaving mystery into the story, as I'm still left with many questions.
The entire premise is just very intriguing--a female dragon shapeshifter going to a boarding school full of really cute (albeit occasionally obnoxious) boys? Count me in. Speaking of Avalon, I really liked her as a character. She was level-headed and reacted in a relatable way to the situation of being surrounded by buckets of testosterone.
As far as the love interests go, I know the arrows are pointing toward Triton, but I'm really digging Kearn. You did me in with the British accent and the servant persona, Ms. Oren. I really hope he's in the next episode because, yeah, that just needs to happen.
I'll try not to let my only criticism of this story come out vague, but there were a couple of occasions where the justification or reason for an event would simply be "That's just the way it is". I would have liked a bit more background and explanation for certain things; for instance, a little more information on Avalon's mother might have been nice (unless of course we get this later in the story)
Overall, short enough to be a quick read but suspenseful enough to leave you wanting more.
Note: As a comment on the formatting, not the actual content of the book, the editing could have been cleaner before being sent out to readers. There were several typos, illogical phrases and clustered lines that interrupted the flow of the story, at least in the PDF format that I received. This didn't at all impact my rating, though I thought I'd point it out.
First off, I'd just like to thank the author, A.S. Oren, for providing me with a copy of this volume and giving me the opportunity to enjoy her uniquely crafted world.
Spearwood Academy was fun, creative, mysterious, and even a little dark. Considering this book was my very first R4R and I'd never properly read a dragon story before, I honestly wasn't sure what to expect. Suffice it to say that I wasn't disappointed. It took me a while to get into it, but once I was in, I had to know what was going to happen next. I think the author did a great job of weaving mystery into the story, as I'm still left with many questions.
The entire premise is just very intriguing--a female dragon shapeshifter going to a boarding school full of really cute (albeit occasionally obnoxious) boys? Count me in. Speaking of Avalon, I really liked her as a character. She was level-headed and reacted in a relatable way to the situation of being surrounded by buckets of testosterone.
As far as the love interests go, I know the arrows are pointing toward Triton, but I'm really digging Kearn. You did me in with the British accent and the servant persona, Ms. Oren. I really hope he's in the next episode because, yeah, that just needs to happen.
I'll try not to let my only criticism of this story come out vague, but there were a couple of occasions where the justification or reason for an event would simply be "That's just the way it is". I would have liked a bit more background and explanation for certain things; for instance, a little more information on Avalon's mother might have been nice (unless of course we get this later in the story)
Overall, short enough to be a quick read but suspenseful enough to leave you wanting more.
Note: As a comment on the formatting, not the actual content of the book, the editing could have been cleaner before being sent out to readers. There were several typos, illogical phrases and clustered lines that interrupted the flow of the story, at least in the PDF format that I received. This didn't at all impact my rating, though I thought I'd point it out.
April 25, 2014
the story took place in a world where humans were given abilities to transform into dragons, helping them through the hard times. yet these humans grew greedy and started using their ability to threaten the villagers. a curse from the Queen caused all female dragons to experience pain during transformation and instead of obtaining the ability at the age of fifteen, they were forced to transform every night since birth. the cruel transformation killed many of the infants, eventually parents started killing their female infants before any transformation could take place. centuries later, Avalon was the only female dragon that survived the curse. she was brought to Spearwood Academy, where male dragons were trained and schooled. while she was overwhelmed seeing so many dragon candidates, she also had many questions that needed answers to.
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. the first few pages frightened me as i was never a huge fan of the historical genre no matter how much i was obsessed with the paranormal. however, the moment Avalon came into the picture, it became crystal clear that she was going to be a character i will definitely love. a tough girl since birth, Avalon survived the daily transformation that was forced upon her. her down to earth personality and especially the grumbling made her believable and thus very relatable. i enjoyed the flow of the storyline, where Avalon was brought from one place to a completely different environment. i felt like we were adjusting ourselves together with her. being the only girl, she was instantly surrounded by a group of friends that tend to be overprotective around her. at some point, i found myself doubting these characters but didn't have enough depths to understand them. however, Mirren the bully and Bullock the tutor i had a clearer picture of, which made things even more interesting when these unlikely characters were forced into a group for a mission. i reached the end of the book without even realizing it, which made the cliffhanger at the end of the book a very cruel joke. now i desperately wanted to get my hands on the next installment!
my review: here
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. the first few pages frightened me as i was never a huge fan of the historical genre no matter how much i was obsessed with the paranormal. however, the moment Avalon came into the picture, it became crystal clear that she was going to be a character i will definitely love. a tough girl since birth, Avalon survived the daily transformation that was forced upon her. her down to earth personality and especially the grumbling made her believable and thus very relatable. i enjoyed the flow of the storyline, where Avalon was brought from one place to a completely different environment. i felt like we were adjusting ourselves together with her. being the only girl, she was instantly surrounded by a group of friends that tend to be overprotective around her. at some point, i found myself doubting these characters but didn't have enough depths to understand them. however, Mirren the bully and Bullock the tutor i had a clearer picture of, which made things even more interesting when these unlikely characters were forced into a group for a mission. i reached the end of the book without even realizing it, which made the cliffhanger at the end of the book a very cruel joke. now i desperately wanted to get my hands on the next installment!
my review: here
September 30, 2015
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review*
I love this book,though it was a little too fast paced for me (I have read it in less than 6 hrs, and I would like it to last longer, like a day or two?). As for the story itself, training Avalon's survival skills for one, should not just take a day. She should experience difficulties, because she is just coming out.
I want the romance to be even more obvious (not just about the boys following her around and all falling for her because she is the only girl in there, I want something more.."substantial" than that.)
They are still young so it is kind of alright. I love their antics nonetheless and it made me all mushy when they do things for her. I hope that as the series progresses, jealousies, possessiveness and other romantic challenges would occur without destroying their friendship completely, or without Avalon knowing what really is happening. At least not at first (I really like her being a nutcase in romance).
I also love her bluntness and it is making me laugh mostly when she answers to those snobby bast*rds. Yeah, about the guys, everyone in her group is nice and all, but I would like to meet someone who is aloof, mysterious (dark and broodingly handsome), outside her group at some point and kind of grates on Avalon's nerves (Kearn is the "little" mystery type only, I want somebody in the "student/royal" section and not in the "servant" section), but in the end they will fall in an almost friendly acquaintance with, well, romantic sparks.
I love this book,though it was a little too fast paced for me (I have read it in less than 6 hrs, and I would like it to last longer, like a day or two?). As for the story itself, training Avalon's survival skills for one, should not just take a day. She should experience difficulties, because she is just coming out.
I want the romance to be even more obvious (not just about the boys following her around and all falling for her because she is the only girl in there, I want something more.."substantial" than that.)
They are still young so it is kind of alright. I love their antics nonetheless and it made me all mushy when they do things for her. I hope that as the series progresses, jealousies, possessiveness and other romantic challenges would occur without destroying their friendship completely, or without Avalon knowing what really is happening. At least not at first (I really like her being a nutcase in romance).
I also love her bluntness and it is making me laugh mostly when she answers to those snobby bast*rds. Yeah, about the guys, everyone in her group is nice and all, but I would like to meet someone who is aloof, mysterious (dark and broodingly handsome), outside her group at some point and kind of grates on Avalon's nerves (Kearn is the "little" mystery type only, I want somebody in the "student/royal" section and not in the "servant" section), but in the end they will fall in an almost friendly acquaintance with, well, romantic sparks.
January 10, 2015
I love love love this book!!! Can't wait to read the next in the series. This book contained episodes 1 - 5 I can honestly say I don't know where the episodes started or ended but I don't care, it was brilliant.
The main character Avalon is a normal teenage girl with the exception that she can transform into a dragon. Abandoned by her mother she comes to live with a single man and owner of an orchard; this background information is very important when trying to understand Avalon's motivations. After her birthday she goes to a school for other dragon shifters all of which are boys. Avalon until this moment has had little interaction with boys is now thrown in head first to this new and exciting situation. She becomes fast friends with a group of boys who help her get to grips with her new surroundings as well as helping her learn about the society and hierarchy involving dragon shifters. Avalon undoubtedly makes enemies along the way, she is a strong and independent lead after all.
I found Avalon a very likeable and easy character to understand.
The secondary characters like the boys she meets at the academy were also very likeable however a bit more difficult to understand we haven't heard very much about their background. I loved loved loved Avalon's dad who was extremely down to earth and understanding given that he'd adopter a daughter who can transform into a dragon.
The pacing was brilliant, as I said in my intro I couldn't tell where chapters/ episodes started or ended because it flowed so beautifully together.
The storyline was also very well done, it didn't introduce really big changes just subtle changes which added to the story or helped along character development. And it ended on a huge cliffhanger making me want to immediately go and buy the next book- maybe once I've finished the other books I'm reading at the minute.
I absolutely loved this book will be looking for other books by the author and waiting anxiously for the time when I can read the next in the series.
The main character Avalon is a normal teenage girl with the exception that she can transform into a dragon. Abandoned by her mother she comes to live with a single man and owner of an orchard; this background information is very important when trying to understand Avalon's motivations. After her birthday she goes to a school for other dragon shifters all of which are boys. Avalon until this moment has had little interaction with boys is now thrown in head first to this new and exciting situation. She becomes fast friends with a group of boys who help her get to grips with her new surroundings as well as helping her learn about the society and hierarchy involving dragon shifters. Avalon undoubtedly makes enemies along the way, she is a strong and independent lead after all.
I found Avalon a very likeable and easy character to understand.
The secondary characters like the boys she meets at the academy were also very likeable however a bit more difficult to understand we haven't heard very much about their background. I loved loved loved Avalon's dad who was extremely down to earth and understanding given that he'd adopter a daughter who can transform into a dragon.
The pacing was brilliant, as I said in my intro I couldn't tell where chapters/ episodes started or ended because it flowed so beautifully together.
The storyline was also very well done, it didn't introduce really big changes just subtle changes which added to the story or helped along character development. And it ended on a huge cliffhanger making me want to immediately go and buy the next book- maybe once I've finished the other books I'm reading at the minute.
I absolutely loved this book will be looking for other books by the author and waiting anxiously for the time when I can read the next in the series.
May 23, 2014
I received a copy of Spearwood Academy in exchange for my honest review.
I really love dragons and fantasy, so the premise of this story was really compelling. A girl named Avalon turns into a dragon every night regardless of a full moon. Her transformation is cursed to be incredibly painful; as a result, she is the only female of her species because all of the ones before her killed their baby girls to keep them from suffering. Because she is the only female and was abandoned, she has no clue about her species until she gets invited to Spearwood academy, a place where she can come and learn about her transformation; presumably, more about the curse and maybe a way to stop it. The only catch: it's an all boy school.
While I was excited about the premise, I just couldn't get through the book. Not for lack of story, though, but because of the writing. First person is a very delicate POV to do and do right. You run the risk of just telling your story step by step and not actually showing it. This is what happens in this story. I felt like I was reading a list and not a story; this was confounded by the fact that I wasn't very drawn into the character of Avalon. I didn't really care about her, but that could be attributed to the writing. From the first persons I have seen that have done well, there are a lot of internal monologues and you learn about the character through that. From what I read of the story, I didn't get that. Also, the beginning of the story where the curse is explained was difficult to read as well; not because of the formatting, but with how it was written. It was very unbelievable and felt rushed, and felt like a story that you would tell around a campfire to children. Maybe that was the point, but it made me less interested to get through the book. I appreciate the opportunity to read it though!
I really love dragons and fantasy, so the premise of this story was really compelling. A girl named Avalon turns into a dragon every night regardless of a full moon. Her transformation is cursed to be incredibly painful; as a result, she is the only female of her species because all of the ones before her killed their baby girls to keep them from suffering. Because she is the only female and was abandoned, she has no clue about her species until she gets invited to Spearwood academy, a place where she can come and learn about her transformation; presumably, more about the curse and maybe a way to stop it. The only catch: it's an all boy school.
While I was excited about the premise, I just couldn't get through the book. Not for lack of story, though, but because of the writing. First person is a very delicate POV to do and do right. You run the risk of just telling your story step by step and not actually showing it. This is what happens in this story. I felt like I was reading a list and not a story; this was confounded by the fact that I wasn't very drawn into the character of Avalon. I didn't really care about her, but that could be attributed to the writing. From the first persons I have seen that have done well, there are a lot of internal monologues and you learn about the character through that. From what I read of the story, I didn't get that. Also, the beginning of the story where the curse is explained was difficult to read as well; not because of the formatting, but with how it was written. It was very unbelievable and felt rushed, and felt like a story that you would tell around a campfire to children. Maybe that was the point, but it made me less interested to get through the book. I appreciate the opportunity to read it though!
April 17, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Spearwood Academy has a really unique world build and fascinated me from start until end.
The bad thing about this book is: It's way too short. Avalon is a average main character, since all she does is to go with the flow. Her father tells her to attend Spearwood Academy; there she meets some guys, who naturally become something like her best friends; someone provocates her, so she kicks his ass.. and so on. I see how Avalon reacts to others, but kind of start to wonder: Who exactly is Avalon? Does she have a complex about not knowing who her parents are or about being the only dragon that feels pain while transforming? I'm not sure about those things yet. Hopefully she'll get some chances to grow and find a goal for herself during the whole series.
An other problem for me are the Harry Potter references. In my opinion an author shouldn't be some squeaky fangirl and use character descriptions and other stuff from popular books. I'm not satisfied with a description like "He looked like mixture of Malfoy and Viktor."(Alright, I'm not sure about the exact wording, it was probably more like something, if Malfoy and Viktor had a child.) Please create your own characters!
Probably it just seems like a lot of references, since the book is so short. 4?(Or so, I didn't count) on 100 pages, simply seem to much to me.
Alright, this review probably looks a little bit negative now lol. But I actually really enjoyed reading this book! I'm just better at explaining what I didn't like instead of what I liked. But this book was great! And there are so many hot guys around, there should be some romances coming soon, too! :) And even without romances, it's still exciting!
Spearwood Academy has a really unique world build and fascinated me from start until end.
The bad thing about this book is: It's way too short. Avalon is a average main character, since all she does is to go with the flow. Her father tells her to attend Spearwood Academy; there she meets some guys, who naturally become something like her best friends; someone provocates her, so she kicks his ass.. and so on. I see how Avalon reacts to others, but kind of start to wonder: Who exactly is Avalon? Does she have a complex about not knowing who her parents are or about being the only dragon that feels pain while transforming? I'm not sure about those things yet. Hopefully she'll get some chances to grow and find a goal for herself during the whole series.
An other problem for me are the Harry Potter references. In my opinion an author shouldn't be some squeaky fangirl and use character descriptions and other stuff from popular books. I'm not satisfied with a description like "He looked like mixture of Malfoy and Viktor."(Alright, I'm not sure about the exact wording, it was probably more like something, if Malfoy and Viktor had a child.) Please create your own characters!
Probably it just seems like a lot of references, since the book is so short. 4?(Or so, I didn't count) on 100 pages, simply seem to much to me.
Alright, this review probably looks a little bit negative now lol. But I actually really enjoyed reading this book! I'm just better at explaining what I didn't like instead of what I liked. But this book was great! And there are so many hot guys around, there should be some romances coming soon, too! :) And even without romances, it's still exciting!
July 23, 2016
** I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review **
I can't say how much I love the setting of a girl in an all boys academy within a fantasy setting. When I read the blurb I was already sold.
Normally, in this kind of setting, the heroine is dressed up as male and hides that she is female. This book takes on another twist. Avalon, or Avvi, is plainly the only (known?) female Dragon Shapeshifter for whatever hundred years. And since "Spearwood Academy" is an Academy for Dragon Shapeshifter, she would be the only female attending this school.
Somewhere in the middle of this book, I had a little bit the feeling of reading a fan fiction with original characters. I can't really pin down WHY I felt that way. It definitely wasn't because the story was not original or so. Because it definitely was! Maybe (I am really only speculating, since I really, really can't define where this feeling came from) because some things kind of happened out of the blue.
Well, I guess that is the explanation for the deduction of one star. But all in all I enjoyed reading this (unfortunately very short) book very much! Especially the last few chapters. And the cliffhanger at the end?? I MUST read the next episodes/books!!
P.S.: Did I mention that Avvi watches korean drama? How cool is that????? <3
I can't say how much I love the setting of a girl in an all boys academy within a fantasy setting. When I read the blurb I was already sold.
Normally, in this kind of setting, the heroine is dressed up as male and hides that she is female. This book takes on another twist. Avalon, or Avvi, is plainly the only (known?) female Dragon Shapeshifter for whatever hundred years. And since "Spearwood Academy" is an Academy for Dragon Shapeshifter, she would be the only female attending this school.
Somewhere in the middle of this book, I had a little bit the feeling of reading a fan fiction with original characters. I can't really pin down WHY I felt that way. It definitely wasn't because the story was not original or so. Because it definitely was! Maybe (I am really only speculating, since I really, really can't define where this feeling came from) because some things kind of happened out of the blue.
Well, I guess that is the explanation for the deduction of one star. But all in all I enjoyed reading this (unfortunately very short) book very much! Especially the last few chapters. And the cliffhanger at the end?? I MUST read the next episodes/books!!
P.S.: Did I mention that Avvi watches korean drama? How cool is that????? <3
May 23, 2014
Before I say anything anything at all (and without giving any spoilers) I want to say what an ending! I have read many cliff hangers but this felt like talking to your best friend about one of the most important days of either of your lives and the phone going dead at the most important part. There is that anticipation that whatever is coming next is going to be completely game changing (even if it is not its still incredibly exciting). I think that it is amazing that this book makes me feel such a connection to Avalon that this is what pops into my head. When I first started reading I was not sure how I would feel about this. The beginning story about the ancients and their start as dragons is really interesting but told in an almost clinical way and I was not sure that I would be able to connect to this world. I am so glad that I was wrong. True there is a simple and understated nature to the writing but I think that is what makes it so wonderful. The story as a whole doesn’t do big twists and gymnastics it just unfolds letting you see more and more of it. I wish that it was longer. There is so much that I want to know. I want to know more about the culture of the “Families”. I want to know to know more about the boys that have become Avalon’s friends and protectors. And most important - I want to know more about Avalon, what she is, what her destiny is. She is such a strong and clever character - oddly simple and complex at the same time. I cannot wait to continue this story. On a side note I love so many of the pop culture sci fi references throughout and I know that this will appeal not only to fans of Harry Potter and Doctor Who but also to readers of Neil Gaimen, Martin Millar, and Mark Chadbourne.
June 24, 2014
**** I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.****
What really draw me into the book was its concept. People shifting into dragons. Well that's just rad. One girl among an all- boy school. What more could you ask for?
If you're into this kind of concept, then you're on the right track of reading it.
I have to admit that the background story is interesting. I like where the story is bringing me. And adding up a curse seems like the best way to push things along. Every dragon is interesting, I would be delighted to see them more in action.
The main story focuses on Avalon. I liked her personality for a strong heroine. I really hope she'd stay that way. Hopefully the progress of the story focuses more on Avalon's talents. It'll be real hard if it suddenly turned into a sappy romance where every chapter focuses on her confused.But I don't mind some jabs here and there sometimes.
There are still more secrets to uncover, which evidently shown at the ending. That was quite a mystery. I wasn't even expecting that was the end. I was wondering the whole night if the last pages were missing. Some time later I gave up. For those who is still reading this, better be ready to purchase the next book. You'll know when you do.
The book was fantastic. I had fun reading it. It wasn't too heavy nor light.Perfect for relaxation.
I would have given it five, if weren't for the ending. Kidding
No offense for other people who rated it five stars. I felt there should have been more to it. It was quite short. Still it made my day.
May 24, 2014
Reading Spearwood Academy One: Episodes 1-5 was amazing! I have not read a book similar to this since Harry Potter! I Loved the way Avalon's character is explained and allows you to truly get to know her. I really feel for her that she has never know really who she is, and the pain she endures every night. A.S. Orengoes into amazing details about every part of the plot, weaving and creating this amazing spell casting Academy that is both mysterious but adventurous and then on top of that full of just boys given that she is the only female Dragon of her kind in Centuries.
Through out the book, Avalon is tested time and time again - someone doesn't want her there and it is up to her and her group of friends to try and find out the truth, just where does she come from? Who are her parents? Who is trying their hardest to cause her harm? and Why are the Royals so interested in her?
I truly enjoyed this volume so much and was so gripped by the need to find out more I ended up purchasing episodes 6, then 7 and then 8! I am now biting my fingernails waiting for the 9th Episode to come out so my thirst for more information about Avalon and her friends and their adventures will be satisfied - I haven't felt this was since Harry Potter!
Through out the book, Avalon is tested time and time again - someone doesn't want her there and it is up to her and her group of friends to try and find out the truth, just where does she come from? Who are her parents? Who is trying their hardest to cause her harm? and Why are the Royals so interested in her?
I truly enjoyed this volume so much and was so gripped by the need to find out more I ended up purchasing episodes 6, then 7 and then 8! I am now biting my fingernails waiting for the 9th Episode to come out so my thirst for more information about Avalon and her friends and their adventures will be satisfied - I haven't felt this was since Harry Potter!
October 15, 2014
**I received this book in exchange for an honest review from Lovers of Paranormal (LoP)**
4.5 Stars
I was pleasantly surprised by how much i enjoyed this book.
There were things that did annoy me which is why I have given 4.5 stars instead of 5 stars.
How the book is formatted made it difficult to read at times. This could be just because I had a PDF copy. Secondly, there were times when characters were in continual conversation that I had to stop and try and work out who was saying what, this was slightly frustrating. I also felt that the narrative at times felt like a list of bullet points which slowed the read down.
However....despite those things I truly loved it. Avalon is so easy to love. You just want her to get the answers she desperately seeks. I loved the PA cards, if only I could have one of those.
I haven't read that many dragon books so this made a refreshing change. I liked the school element and enjoyed not reading about vampires for once. It felt like a mix between Harry Potter and the Hunger Games, with the fight for survival.
Oren builds a good picture of the curse and the history of Avalon's race at the beginning. I only wished that this had been a little longer and in more depth.
The book ends on a cliff hanger so I am glad I have Volume 2 ready to go.
Would definitely recommend this!
4.5 Stars
I was pleasantly surprised by how much i enjoyed this book.
There were things that did annoy me which is why I have given 4.5 stars instead of 5 stars.
How the book is formatted made it difficult to read at times. This could be just because I had a PDF copy. Secondly, there were times when characters were in continual conversation that I had to stop and try and work out who was saying what, this was slightly frustrating. I also felt that the narrative at times felt like a list of bullet points which slowed the read down.
However....despite those things I truly loved it. Avalon is so easy to love. You just want her to get the answers she desperately seeks. I loved the PA cards, if only I could have one of those.
I haven't read that many dragon books so this made a refreshing change. I liked the school element and enjoyed not reading about vampires for once. It felt like a mix between Harry Potter and the Hunger Games, with the fight for survival.
Oren builds a good picture of the curse and the history of Avalon's race at the beginning. I only wished that this had been a little longer and in more depth.
The book ends on a cliff hanger so I am glad I have Volume 2 ready to go.
Would definitely recommend this!
October 21, 2014
I'm a real sucker for reverse harem stories so I'm quite thankful to have stumbled on this little gem here.
So this story centers around Avalon, a girl who can shape shift into a dragon at night. She's brought into this weird school named Spearwood Academy where she gets to meet lots of bishies that can also shape shift into dragons.
Well that's about the gist of it, I've got to say though the plot is quite original. The first chapter of this book pretty much gives you the history of the whole shape shifting dragon thingy and well it really got me hooked. Avalon herself is also a refreshing character, she's got this certain spunk that sets her apart from the typical damsel in distress characters. As for the boys she meets I'm not quite taken in by them YET. I mean this is just the tip of the ice berg so I can't say for sure if I already have a favorite. Besides volume 1 was painstakingly short so I haven't really gotten to know the characters aside from Avalon.
All in all I'd pretty much say that this book is a good read it's light humor and sassy main character can't help but make you smile as you read through it. The ending was quite abrupt and pretty much leaves you hanging. Well because of that I'm pretty much looking forward to read the next volume, hopefully it wont end as quickly as volume 1.
So this story centers around Avalon, a girl who can shape shift into a dragon at night. She's brought into this weird school named Spearwood Academy where she gets to meet lots of bishies that can also shape shift into dragons.
Well that's about the gist of it, I've got to say though the plot is quite original. The first chapter of this book pretty much gives you the history of the whole shape shifting dragon thingy and well it really got me hooked. Avalon herself is also a refreshing character, she's got this certain spunk that sets her apart from the typical damsel in distress characters. As for the boys she meets I'm not quite taken in by them YET. I mean this is just the tip of the ice berg so I can't say for sure if I already have a favorite. Besides volume 1 was painstakingly short so I haven't really gotten to know the characters aside from Avalon.
All in all I'd pretty much say that this book is a good read it's light humor and sassy main character can't help but make you smile as you read through it. The ending was quite abrupt and pretty much leaves you hanging. Well because of that I'm pretty much looking forward to read the next volume, hopefully it wont end as quickly as volume 1.
December 27, 2018
I loved this book, I finished it the night I got it, I couldn't put it down! It had an interesting plot that didn't get held back with needless fluff, the author managed to stay on task and didn't stray in order to convey the story. The main character is strong willed, confident, able to speak her mind, full of sarcasm, and a huge movie buff with many references to different movies though mainly Harry Potter. I love when books refer to other books it makes the characters seem more real. I also liked how the author describes the transformation sequence its quite different from your classic were-wolf/animal change. Overall I would give it a 5/5 because I can see myself rereading this book, its got a strong heroine (thats not afraid to be flawed in some ways) and lots of hot guys with varying personalities! I am hoping to see more character development in upcoming books, but for the first it was great!
{sadly I don't own a kindle only a nook, although after emailing the author [who was very understanding] I was able to get a PDF copy to read in exchange for an honest review, so here is my honest review I wouldn't lie to you all if I hated it I would let you know, but as for me I liked it and can't wait to read the following books}
{sadly I don't own a kindle only a nook, although after emailing the author [who was very understanding] I was able to get a PDF copy to read in exchange for an honest review, so here is my honest review I wouldn't lie to you all if I hated it I would let you know, but as for me I liked it and can't wait to read the following books}
April 9, 2014
SPEARWOOD ACADEMY - Volume One by A.S.Oren
Avalon is different. She's too smart to attend the local school and instead is homeschooled. She lives with Edgar, the man who found her as a baby abandoned near his barn.
Growing up has it's challenges, but the ones Avalon is facing are not your typical teenage issues.
Avalon transforms into a dragon every time the moon risers.
Knowing that Avalon needs answers, Edgar agrees to send her to the Spearwood Academy.
Spearwood Academy is (or has been up until now) an All Boys school. This school however, is not your average boarding school. This school is only for those who have the potential to turn into dragons. Avalon agrees to attend because she wants to learn who and what she is.
The characters in this book are richly imagined and compelling. Avalon's angst and search for answers draws the reader into her world.
The story is shorter than I had hoped it would be and ends with a cliffhanger, making the reader want to immediately begin reading Book Two.
All in all, I found this an engrossing and interesting story. I rate this book as 4 out if 5 stars. (If it was longer it would have received 5 stars).
Avalon is different. She's too smart to attend the local school and instead is homeschooled. She lives with Edgar, the man who found her as a baby abandoned near his barn.
Growing up has it's challenges, but the ones Avalon is facing are not your typical teenage issues.
Avalon transforms into a dragon every time the moon risers.
Knowing that Avalon needs answers, Edgar agrees to send her to the Spearwood Academy.
Spearwood Academy is (or has been up until now) an All Boys school. This school however, is not your average boarding school. This school is only for those who have the potential to turn into dragons. Avalon agrees to attend because she wants to learn who and what she is.
The characters in this book are richly imagined and compelling. Avalon's angst and search for answers draws the reader into her world.
The story is shorter than I had hoped it would be and ends with a cliffhanger, making the reader want to immediately begin reading Book Two.
All in all, I found this an engrossing and interesting story. I rate this book as 4 out if 5 stars. (If it was longer it would have received 5 stars).
April 23, 2014
* i was given this book in exchange for an honest review*
Avalon thinks that she is the only one of her kind. No one knows that she is able to transform into a dragon besides her adopted father.
Then on her birthday she finds out that there are more dragons in the world and that she is the only female. She goes to Spearwood Academy which is the only place where she can find out more about her kind and has to leave her father to board at the Academy.
She makes friends at the school but she knows that she is different from everyone else not only gender wise.
To be able to stay at the school she has to be able to survive all the obstacles they have planned for her.
I actually rate this book 3,5 stars. It was an interesting read. I liked the combination of science and magic and how the two work together. The references to other books inside this book was a nice touch and it was kind of funny to find Avalon mentioning the Capital from the Hunger Games. An amazing book!!!
Avalon thinks that she is the only one of her kind. No one knows that she is able to transform into a dragon besides her adopted father.
Then on her birthday she finds out that there are more dragons in the world and that she is the only female. She goes to Spearwood Academy which is the only place where she can find out more about her kind and has to leave her father to board at the Academy.
She makes friends at the school but she knows that she is different from everyone else not only gender wise.
To be able to stay at the school she has to be able to survive all the obstacles they have planned for her.
I actually rate this book 3,5 stars. It was an interesting read. I liked the combination of science and magic and how the two work together. The references to other books inside this book was a nice touch and it was kind of funny to find Avalon mentioning the Capital from the Hunger Games. An amazing book!!!
August 5, 2014
I was sent a copy of this by the author to read for review. It have done anything like this before so I was a bit nervous.
what can I say about this book. It was amazing, I have not read anything like this. The transformation scenes with Avalon were so sad and powerful I really believed that I was there with her. I love her relationship with Ed and the way that they are together.
Avalon is one of the most realistic characters I have read in a while. I spent a lot of he time wanting to buy her and take some of her pain away.
The group of boys that she was with all the time were brilliant and realistic. The fact that they were all so funny and carding a out even though they had only just met her. Dante is such a fun character and I love that he is able to take the mic out of himself.
I loved all the mythology behind the dragons and utter belief I had in the reasons behind be dragons and what happened to them and their magic.
The only problem is that it was over far to fast. I really need to know what is going on at that school and who was that other dragon.
what can I say about this book. It was amazing, I have not read anything like this. The transformation scenes with Avalon were so sad and powerful I really believed that I was there with her. I love her relationship with Ed and the way that they are together.
Avalon is one of the most realistic characters I have read in a while. I spent a lot of he time wanting to buy her and take some of her pain away.
The group of boys that she was with all the time were brilliant and realistic. The fact that they were all so funny and carding a out even though they had only just met her. Dante is such a fun character and I love that he is able to take the mic out of himself.
I loved all the mythology behind the dragons and utter belief I had in the reasons behind be dragons and what happened to them and their magic.
The only problem is that it was over far to fast. I really need to know what is going on at that school and who was that other dragon.
June 13, 2015
What if you didn’t understand what you are? What if you were left in a barn as a baby? Avalon is a girl who lives in a town with her father, or well, the guy who found her in the barn and raised her. Which is tough, considering every night she shifts into a dragon. All her life, she thought that she was the only one that shifted. On her 15th birthday her father tells her about Spearwood Academy. Spearwood Academy is full of shifters like her, but the only problem is, she’s the only girl there.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Cover Rating: 3.5/5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I love the whole premise of it. Girl turns into dragon. Sounds cool right, right? I loved most of the characters. Avalon was pretty cool. Her friends were awesome though. I feel like they made the novel good.
The plot was awesome also. So she turns into a dragon at night and it’s not like some glamorous thing that some books would describe it as. It’s actually painful and gruesome. The school was cool. I thought this book overall was really good. I would definitely suggest that you pick this book up.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Cover Rating: 3.5/5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I love the whole premise of it. Girl turns into dragon. Sounds cool right, right? I loved most of the characters. Avalon was pretty cool. Her friends were awesome though. I feel like they made the novel good.
The plot was awesome also. So she turns into a dragon at night and it’s not like some glamorous thing that some books would describe it as. It’s actually painful and gruesome. The school was cool. I thought this book overall was really good. I would definitely suggest that you pick this book up.
May 22, 2014
I received this as ar4r and finished it asap. I am hooked. At the end i was like.... your kidding.... what happens and i scrambled for the next book. Ill write more later and clean up the reveiw a bit but i just had to give immediate kudos.
Ok. Lets start out with what i dont like. I absolutely hate how short these are. I just need an entire novel of this stuff because im so interested in this world.
What i loved and would like to see more of is character development. The world has so much undiscovered and i a sure it will clear up as the series goes along.
Honestly i really liked these even though they were short they were very sweet and left me wanting more. In fact i went and downloaded the kindle app just so i could buy and read the other available chapters. If that doesnt tell you that this is an awesome read i will just say it to make it clear, this is an awesome read. Fun and new with a long future i think.
Ok. Lets start out with what i dont like. I absolutely hate how short these are. I just need an entire novel of this stuff because im so interested in this world.
What i loved and would like to see more of is character development. The world has so much undiscovered and i a sure it will clear up as the series goes along.
Honestly i really liked these even though they were short they were very sweet and left me wanting more. In fact i went and downloaded the kindle app just so i could buy and read the other available chapters. If that doesnt tell you that this is an awesome read i will just say it to make it clear, this is an awesome read. Fun and new with a long future i think.
July 8, 2014
*This book was given to me by the Author for an honest review*
The Spearwood Academy series was a good read, but not a great one. One of my biggest issues was the length. Even with the 5 episodes, the book was still a bit shorter than a normally sized book. I wouldn't want to buy the books via the single episodes. It would be very disappointing.
While the book started off well, I felt that it really slowed down as it progressed. It needed more attention grabbing complications. It became very predictable with not a lot progressing in the storyline.
There was an obvious bit of copying from the Harry Potter books. It wasn't too much of an issue though, since the author acknowledged the similarities within the writing. Giving credit where it was due.
Overall, I liked the concept of the book and will read the next omnibus when it comes out. I want to find out where the story goes.
The Spearwood Academy series was a good read, but not a great one. One of my biggest issues was the length. Even with the 5 episodes, the book was still a bit shorter than a normally sized book. I wouldn't want to buy the books via the single episodes. It would be very disappointing.
While the book started off well, I felt that it really slowed down as it progressed. It needed more attention grabbing complications. It became very predictable with not a lot progressing in the storyline.
There was an obvious bit of copying from the Harry Potter books. It wasn't too much of an issue though, since the author acknowledged the similarities within the writing. Giving credit where it was due.
Overall, I liked the concept of the book and will read the next omnibus when it comes out. I want to find out where the story goes.
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