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The Ghost Bird #3
Friends vs. Family
Sang Sorenson is forced to suffer through another of her mother’s extreme punishments. It almost kills her. The Academy boys vow it will be the last. They're determined to keep Sang safe, especially from her own family. Their complete invasion of her life. Kota, Luke, Silas, Nathan, Victor, Gabriel and North do everything within their power to show Sang what true loyalty means. It takes more than blood to make a family and they want Sang in theirs. In this third book of The Academy series Sang experiences a taste of freedom and what it’s like to truly be cared for...to be wanted. Sang learns a bit more about the boys’ broken families and the boys discover more than they could ever have bargained for about Sang’s. The Academy was the answer to their problems. Could it be hers? Sang’s actions will force her mother to reveal a startling truth. A truth that will change Sang’s life and the boys’ lives in unpredictable ways. Forever. The Academy, Allegiance
436 pages, Paperback
First published August 26, 2013
366 people are currently reading
1706 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Stone
58 books4,354 followersC. L. Stone likes :chocolate_bar: and #findingburiedtreasure. Her books are about :revolving_hearts: and @dark_themes and #chocolatechippancakes.
If lots of book boyfriends scare you...run. Run now.
If lots of book boyfriends scare you...run. Run now.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
September 7, 2013
Now that I have come down from my anger ball I think I can logically review this book.
C.L. certainly upped her game on this one!
Not only did she take the Mother's abuse to a whole brand new messed up level--we know WHY the abuse is happening in the first place. I wasn't buying what everyone was selling me that the cancer made her 'crazy'. Then I noticed the just as crazy older sister wasn't getting ANY punishments. It was all in Sang's hands. So in my adult brain--I tried to figure it all out. I figured it out a little bit, but wasn't totally sure.
Sang experienced extreme abuse in this installment of the series. I literally worried I wouldn't be able to continue this book. However, the level of compassion in each of the male characters sort of brought me back again and again.
At this point I honestly believe that Sang needs stable therapy. Seriously, if I had gone through all I, then had a bombshell dropped on me, I would need it. I'm just not sure why Doc ain't suggesting this because they are all very much aware she has specific personality disorders that are from the abuse.
I believe that EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THE BOYS ARE IN LOVE WITH HER. I don't think its a knight in shining armor syndrome. The way they NEED her just as much as SHE NEEDS them is very telling. And how they all basically are willing to share her and it is not really a huge issue so long as they each get their own time is very telling.
My only issue is why they are complicating the issue of pulling her out of the home. Yeah, she won't go. But what about telling her the whole truth? Maybe she will be more willing to bail and be like, "Peace mo-fos." They keep over complicating it considering in the 'system' Sang doesn't exist. My thoughts. Tell her EVERYTHING, get her out once the mother is back and give her a totally new identity! People do it every day without the aide of some secret society!
Bring on OCTOBER!
Now I am #TeamNorth #TeamSilas #TeamVictor and really edging towards #TeamKota lol He did see her first after all...
C.L. certainly upped her game on this one!
Not only did she take the Mother's abuse to a whole brand new messed up level--we know WHY the abuse is happening in the first place. I wasn't buying what everyone was selling me that the cancer made her 'crazy'. Then I noticed the just as crazy older sister wasn't getting ANY punishments. It was all in Sang's hands. So in my adult brain--I tried to figure it all out. I figured it out a little bit, but wasn't totally sure.
Sang experienced extreme abuse in this installment of the series. I literally worried I wouldn't be able to continue this book. However, the level of compassion in each of the male characters sort of brought me back again and again.
At this point I honestly believe that Sang needs stable therapy. Seriously, if I had gone through all I, then had a bombshell dropped on me, I would need it. I'm just not sure why Doc ain't suggesting this because they are all very much aware she has specific personality disorders that are from the abuse.
I believe that EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THE BOYS ARE IN LOVE WITH HER. I don't think its a knight in shining armor syndrome. The way they NEED her just as much as SHE NEEDS them is very telling. And how they all basically are willing to share her and it is not really a huge issue so long as they each get their own time is very telling.
My only issue is why they are complicating the issue of pulling her out of the home. Yeah, she won't go. But what about telling her the whole truth? Maybe she will be more willing to bail and be like, "Peace mo-fos." They keep over complicating it considering in the 'system' Sang doesn't exist. My thoughts. Tell her EVERYTHING, get her out once the mother is back and give her a totally new identity! People do it every day without the aide of some secret society!
Bring on OCTOBER!
Now I am #TeamNorth #TeamSilas #TeamVictor and really edging towards #TeamKota lol He did see her first after all...
August 28, 2013
WHY OH WHY DO I ALWAYS FINISH THESE BOOKS SO FREAKING FAST?!
Several times I just had to take a breath and slow down, just to enjoy the superb writing,
the surroundings, the interactions, the drama, action, secrets, reveals,
love, touches. But somehow I can't stop devouring C.Ls book like a chocolate starving
girl... wich I always am btw.
Family vs Friends. Different, similar, revealing, but still oh so secretive.
There are some loose ends that get knotted together, but after they become longer, there are still
some small threads needing to be included. We still dont have all the answers. Uh, let me rephrase that, there are sooo many clues, but no answers. Not really. We still don't know the depth of The Academy, what really happened to Sang in her childhood, and some of the boys backgrounds.
But is the tension growing? YES! Are the boys getting more obsessive? Oh yes! Are the teachers getting more involved, oh yes thank god! Do I still swoon over all the boys? DAMN YES!
Do I want more of these series? Oh PLEASE YES! Am I having a personal crisis of lack of books atm? Damn right!
I LOVED the previous books, and altough I rarely like a serie to "drag" on, meaning giving the inclin of a long series, this one does and I love it. I dont want it to end. I want this to be a REALLY LONG series. To never end! Never be concluded. Although I do appreciate some knots getting tied along the way.
Oh, I just cant stop writing. The book were superb! Better than the other two? Just as good. The action is climbing, tension between the boys and Sang are getting intense. And the confusion, love, sparks, and you name it.
"I want my personal Gabriel!! He is definitely becoming my favorite with the styling and swearing. Such a sweet contrast!
Thank you C.L, now I just have to hold on until the next book. Read the preview, and well... EXCITED! Fingers crossed, and hope I get the chance to pre order. Then it wont feel like such a long wait. LOL!
Several times I just had to take a breath and slow down, just to enjoy the superb writing,
the surroundings, the interactions, the drama, action, secrets, reveals,
love, touches. But somehow I can't stop devouring C.Ls book like a chocolate starving
girl... wich I always am btw.
Family vs Friends. Different, similar, revealing, but still oh so secretive.
There are some loose ends that get knotted together, but after they become longer, there are still
some small threads needing to be included. We still dont have all the answers. Uh, let me rephrase that, there are sooo many clues, but no answers. Not really. We still don't know the depth of The Academy, what really happened to Sang in her childhood, and some of the boys backgrounds.
But is the tension growing? YES! Are the boys getting more obsessive? Oh yes! Are the teachers getting more involved, oh yes thank god! Do I still swoon over all the boys? DAMN YES!
Do I want more of these series? Oh PLEASE YES! Am I having a personal crisis of lack of books atm? Damn right!
I LOVED the previous books, and altough I rarely like a serie to "drag" on, meaning giving the inclin of a long series, this one does and I love it. I dont want it to end. I want this to be a REALLY LONG series. To never end! Never be concluded. Although I do appreciate some knots getting tied along the way.
Oh, I just cant stop writing. The book were superb! Better than the other two? Just as good. The action is climbing, tension between the boys and Sang are getting intense. And the confusion, love, sparks, and you name it.
"I want my personal Gabriel!! He is definitely becoming my favorite with the styling and swearing. Such a sweet contrast!
Thank you C.L, now I just have to hold on until the next book. Read the preview, and well... EXCITED! Fingers crossed, and hope I get the chance to pre order. Then it wont feel like such a long wait. LOL!
August 29, 2013
Now if someone had told me that I would like a series about nine hot guys and a naive young girl, I would have said you were kidding. I usually read more books about the supernatural and kick ass females so this is a change of pace for me but a welcome one. There is no sexual overtones to this book and just a hint of innocent romance so it is suitable for the younger teens and addresses such darker topics like child abuse. The boys are the kind of guys I would like my son to aspire to when he grows up, showing respect to women and standing up to bullies when the occasion arises. The ties that bind us to family and the friends we choose to allow into our lives reveals what we think is "Normal". So many broken families are around more now in our disposable society and it is sad to know that people like Sang exist and face this kind of abuse every day thinking it is "normal" when it is so far from it.
Usually I would have a favourite by now but the boys each bring something different to the group and if you could roll their qualities into one guy, he would be the perfect boyfriend. They all are there for Sang and offer her hope and salvation where she once felt despair and isolation. Some of the punishments I read were disturbing to me as I have a small young son and I cannot envision a mother ever inflicting those types of punishments on a child but it does lend to understanding Sang's character who is socially inept and naive to the point where she could be easily be taken advantage of by the wrong people.
I did originally think it would have more supernatural aspects to the story regarding the "Academy" but that was my own perception of the intro but there is enough secrets surrounding this mysterious school to keep you guessing. As the boys become more involved in Sang's life trying to keep her safe, a few of them have developed feelings for her and I can only wonder how this will impact on their friendship and loyalty to each other if she starts to have feelings for one of them. Will it tear them apart or will they close ranks and protect her at all costs from themselves and the Academy? The results remain to be seen and I look forward to the next book.
Usually I would have a favourite by now but the boys each bring something different to the group and if you could roll their qualities into one guy, he would be the perfect boyfriend. They all are there for Sang and offer her hope and salvation where she once felt despair and isolation. Some of the punishments I read were disturbing to me as I have a small young son and I cannot envision a mother ever inflicting those types of punishments on a child but it does lend to understanding Sang's character who is socially inept and naive to the point where she could be easily be taken advantage of by the wrong people.
I did originally think it would have more supernatural aspects to the story regarding the "Academy" but that was my own perception of the intro but there is enough secrets surrounding this mysterious school to keep you guessing. As the boys become more involved in Sang's life trying to keep her safe, a few of them have developed feelings for her and I can only wonder how this will impact on their friendship and loyalty to each other if she starts to have feelings for one of them. Will it tear them apart or will they close ranks and protect her at all costs from themselves and the Academy? The results remain to be seen and I look forward to the next book.
July 8, 2018
Second time read. First time review.
Okay, first off, her mother's abuse game was strong. Not in a good way either. I HATE HER MOM SO FREAKING MUCH that I'm not even upset one bit that the Academy took her away. Good riddance if you ask me. Then there's her dad, mr. douche who doesn't know how to be a real father because he's too busy trying to fake ass bitch to some other family. Fuck him. I also hate Marie because she's a god damn twatwaffle. None of them deserve Sang. NONE OF THEM.
Okay the gang is all here still and again, I'm still in love with all of them. Again, they are protective over everyone in that little wolf pack. AND THAT ENDING GUYS! OMG I can't wait to dive into the next book.
I still have that nagging question in the back of mind: WHO THE FUCK IS SANG? I'm really hoping I re-find out while re-reading this series. I'm falling even more in love with each guy and I know that they are falling for Sang in their own way. Plus, it's totally vice versa. Again, I'm just kind of waiting for the smut to start in this reverse harem!! PLEASE HAPPEN!
Overall, I loved this book. I devoured it and now I can't wait to dive into the next one. I need it. I need to know what the hell is happening. Marie will probably still have a stick up her ass. Her dad will probably still play house. Her mom will probably be annoying. AND the guys will always her back. I doubt they are going to do what Mr. Blackbourne and Dr. Green want. They aren't going to back off of her. They all love her and I'm just waiting for them to figure it out.
Okay, first off, her mother's abuse game was strong. Not in a good way either. I HATE HER MOM SO FREAKING MUCH that I'm not even upset one bit that the Academy took her away. Good riddance if you ask me. Then there's her dad, mr. douche who doesn't know how to be a real father because he's too busy trying to fake ass bitch to some other family. Fuck him. I also hate Marie because she's a god damn twatwaffle. None of them deserve Sang. NONE OF THEM.
Okay the gang is all here still and again, I'm still in love with all of them. Again, they are protective over everyone in that little wolf pack. AND THAT ENDING GUYS! OMG I can't wait to dive into the next book.
I still have that nagging question in the back of mind: WHO THE FUCK IS SANG? I'm really hoping I re-find out while re-reading this series. I'm falling even more in love with each guy and I know that they are falling for Sang in their own way. Plus, it's totally vice versa. Again, I'm just kind of waiting for the smut to start in this reverse harem!! PLEASE HAPPEN!
Overall, I loved this book. I devoured it and now I can't wait to dive into the next one. I need it. I need to know what the hell is happening. Marie will probably still have a stick up her ass. Her dad will probably still play house. Her mom will probably be annoying. AND the guys will always her back. I doubt they are going to do what Mr. Blackbourne and Dr. Green want. They aren't going to back off of her. They all love her and I'm just waiting for them to figure it out.
December 26, 2013
This installment should be called Snow White Does Errands with Her Hottie Dwarves.... It's one over the top fantastical montage (with shopping and makeovers!) after another. Unfortunately there is no introduction of plot until the last 20 pages. Don't get me wrong, some of the montages are really enjoyable, but you can't make a cohesive novel by stringing together vignettes. One or two of these would have been enough threaded together with the plot.
May 11, 2017
I have the "hots" for North and Mr Blackbourne... I love them!!! <3
March 5, 2014
DNF'd at 14%. This book and series is all kinds of problematic and unrealistic. I mean, really, I thought Sang would chose one guy but no. Seven guys and two adult men should not all be in love with one girl who may or may not be bipolar or at least have some other undiagnosed psychiatric disorder. The last thing a girl in such a state should have is the romantic attention of 9 guys who all pass her around like a bottle of cheap booze at a school dance. If she can't see that there is something seriously wrong with the whole dynamic between her and the guys then clearly her judgement is not sound. Then about the guys, how can any red blooded male be okay with literally sharing a girl he's into with another, let alone with 8 other dudes? I get that they are all close friends, but this is not normal.
This is not The Bachelorette, if it did have that theme it would be tolerable. This is Sister Wives(brother boyfriends?) with far less plot. I mean, there is WTF-ery all around and I can't with this.
This is not The Bachelorette, if it did have that theme it would be tolerable. This is Sister Wives(brother boyfriends?) with far less plot. I mean, there is WTF-ery all around and I can't with this.
September 4, 2013
This series is highly addicting. I'm only disappointed when I finish reading the book and I have to wait for the next book to be released. C. L. Stone is a great storyteller.
July 21, 2018
My favourite boy is North. Silas is my second favourite. Then, Mr. Blackbourne rounds out my top three. I am sorry to Kota, but Mr. Blackbourne won me over in this book. Each boy brings a special and unique quality to the book. This was a fantastic sequel. It is something totally different than what you usually expect from an author. I think it makes the story fresh and new. I can't wait to read Forgiveness & Permission next! Overall, an amazing read.
August 28, 2013
Honestly, I can't get enough of these books! C L Stone writes in such a way that I studiously read every. word. on. the. page!! I love all of the boys and how they stick up for Sang and how they love her so well! Have never written a review since my membership about a year ago, and felt that I HAD to write one for this series. Seriously, every book keeps getting better!
Kota has a soft place in my heart. I think it's because he was the one that first rescued her and she has already been so readily accepted by his family. I mean truly all of the boys are wonderful and seemingly flawless, but I find myself always waiting for the interaction between Sang and Kota. I get why he is the leader. I respect him as a reader and I just feel the authority in his presence. LOVED getting his point of view in the end. Always wondered how he was feeling.
Kota + Sang = :D
If you haven't read these...start now! And start from the beginning.
Maybe the next one's release date can be pushed up?!?!? Please...pretty please!!!
Kota has a soft place in my heart. I think it's because he was the one that first rescued her and she has already been so readily accepted by his family. I mean truly all of the boys are wonderful and seemingly flawless, but I find myself always waiting for the interaction between Sang and Kota. I get why he is the leader. I respect him as a reader and I just feel the authority in his presence. LOVED getting his point of view in the end. Always wondered how he was feeling.
Kota + Sang = :D
If you haven't read these...start now! And start from the beginning.
Maybe the next one's release date can be pushed up?!?!? Please...pretty please!!!
Read
April 2, 2018Rating : between 1 and 4 stars
Check out the first book's review
Check out the first book's review
Read
September 11, 2022I am so torn. You see, Sang is such a godawful protagonist that I just want to bore a rusty screwdriver into my temple to escape her mind-numbing idiocy. However, this story wouldn't work with a more confident, self aware girl. Sang basically has to be a complete and utter doormat to make anything that happens in this series semi-believable, because I don't know if I could root for a girl (not that I root for Sang) that willingly dates and flirts with nine guys, cycling though them like shoes or outfits.
Early on in Friends vs. Family, Sang's mother goes off the deep end. She ties Sang to a stool in the tub and leaves the shower running for hours. Oh, and forces her to drink vinegar and lemon juice, just like in the first book, because Stone is running out of punishments, I guess. The kneeling in rice shtick also makes a reappearance. Both were used in the previous books, but according to Sang, her mother had never punished her these ways before. Well, her harem comes to rescue her and discovers her mother has cancer. Of course, Sang immediately forgets her mother is a bitch and starts acting sympathetic, wanting to take care of mommy dearest because the poor woman has it so rough (hah).
Remember in my First Days review when I applauded the fact that Marie and Sang were working together against their mother for a change? Well, Stone couldn't have that, so she made Marie a complete backstabbing bitch threefold. First, she steals all of Sang's clothes and gives them to her new BFF Danielle, who hands over her brother's old clothes as a trade, without Sang's consent. This includes... um, Nathan and one of the other guys' shirts that they gave Sang. (Hush, I only really remember three of the guys.) Apparently Danielle and other girls at school have started copying Sang's look (yeah right), so instead of buying new clothes, Danielle has Marie steal them even though they don't fit her. Second, Marie was escaping punishment by snitching on Sang's "activities", so their mother rewards her by giving Marie Sang's phone AND the clothes that she ripped off Sang as a punishment. Lastly, we find out Marie has been failing classes, stealing mom's pills to sell at school, and other delinquent behaviour. Wow.
The majority of the book is about one weekend. After having her clothes stolen, Victor, Gabriel, and, um, someone else take Sang shopping. Apparently Victor is loaded and buys Sang several thousand dollars worth of clothes. ($800 at a Victoria's Secret for ten bras and ten panties, I think that seems a bit high, and the Canadian prices are higher than the States, but whatever.) They also buy her new furniture, decorate her attic, and install cameras in her house. (Creepy.) After that, they have a sleepover at Kota's, where Gabriel gives Sang a makeover and a haircut. This is where, if you were skeptical about if Sang was really dating all seven of the guys, this really drives it home. They play Truth of Dare, and all the guys keep picking Sang. All of them hold her in their laps like she's a kitten. They're constantly holding her hand or touching her, not sexually, but not in a 'just friends' way either. When they go to sleep, at least four of them are touching Sang somewhere, be it her hand, foot, head, once again not sexual, but awkward. Kota's mom brings up dating, pressing Kota to take Sang out, while Victor gives her expensive jewelry and asks her out. Sang, the ever eager to please puppy who is desperate for attention, laps it all up and agrees. It's cringeworthy how dumb she is.
Let's talk about the guys. A couple of them are becoming more distinct to me where I can remember them. Victor is the rich one. Kota (currently my favourite, despite the fact that he loves Sang, just like everyone else), is smart, a leader, rational, and logical. Gabriel is the flamboyant one. Mr. Blackbourne and Dr. Green, I only remember because they're the "adults" (hahaha, nineteen year old high school teachers and medical doctors. Yeah right.). I remember names (Luke, Nathan, North, and Silas, who just took me ten seconds to remember his name. Fail), but nothing else about them. Oh, I remember that Sang sees Nathan's bare ass once. Yeah.
Sang's father leaves her mother, and mommy dearest wigs out. She accuses Sang of stealing money (which she didn't, although I think it was Marie or Mom was lying), steals her phone, rips off her clothes, and makes her lie naked in her father's empty closet. Apparently, if the epilogue from First Days wasn't a big enough clue, Sang's mother, the evil bitch from hell, is not her real mother. Mommy Dearest demands that Dad take Sang away because she's a dirty whore for having a phone and talking to boys, just like her mother (who was supposedly raped and committed suicide. Go big, Stone, my god). This is where you find out Marie was snitching and that Mom thinks Marie is an incorruptible angel because she's mom's real daughter. Dad is completely apathetic, saying he wants Sang and Marie to stay in the house while Mom is in the hospital. He has a totally different family that doesn't know his daughters exist, what a prick! That's why he was never there. And Sang, our idiotic heroine, agrees to do as he asks because she's a good girl. Fuck that.
You know what I wanted? I wanted to see Sang snap. When she saw Marie holding her phone, wearing her shorts and one of the guys' shirts, I wanted her to blow up big time. She should have revealed all of Marie's dirty laundry, slapped the bitch, and took her shit back. I wanted her to get in her mother's face and throw all the bad stuff she'd ever done at her, before threatening to call Child Services. I wanted her to flip her father off, tell him to go fuck himself, and leave to live with her harem. What did I get instead? Compliant Sang, who can do no wrong to others, bow her head in submissiveness, and agree to all the stupid shit around her. What the fuck is wrong with this girl?!
We get another pointless epilogue from Kota's point of view (who uses the cameras in Sang's house to spy on her, and saw her naked before. I knew the guys weren't going to be trustworthy with the surveillance). A small tidbit of the Academy is revealed (how they collect favours and money for doing assignments to get them out of a perceived debt), but not much else. Sang's "Ghost Bird" status (hence the series name) is expanded on. Mostly it's all nine boys arguing about who gets to date her. Their solution? Everyone gets to date her! Yeehaw! *facepalm* She has to initiate new things (kissing, dating), but all the guys can hold her hand, put her in their laps, and sleep in her bed (basically anything they'd already done). If one guy got something new, everyone else is entitled to it (so if Kota kisses her, everyone else can too). This shouldn't work. They're basically whoring her out amongst themselves. Why does it work? Because Sang is too fucking stupid to understand what's going on. If the book tells you Sang is smart, it's a lie. Show us, don't tell us. Using code in your diary is not super clever. Unintentionally causing nine guys to fight over you is not clever. Being interested in the boys keeping secrets IS NOT CLEVER. Sang just does whatever the boys want because she's too idiotic to know otherwise.
Also, Stone needs to look up what "fluttering" and "smirking" are. Sang is constantly fluttering her hands (the hell?) and everyone is smirking, which I don't think was the intended effect. Most of the time it seems like they're supposed to be smiling, but it says they're smirking. SO MUCH FLUTTERING AND SMIRKING THAT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE.
Such a trainwreck. A massive, multiple collision trainwreck.
Early on in Friends vs. Family, Sang's mother goes off the deep end. She ties Sang to a stool in the tub and leaves the shower running for hours. Oh, and forces her to drink vinegar and lemon juice, just like in the first book, because Stone is running out of punishments, I guess. The kneeling in rice shtick also makes a reappearance. Both were used in the previous books, but according to Sang, her mother had never punished her these ways before. Well, her harem comes to rescue her and discovers her mother has cancer. Of course, Sang immediately forgets her mother is a bitch and starts acting sympathetic, wanting to take care of mommy dearest because the poor woman has it so rough (hah).
Remember in my First Days review when I applauded the fact that Marie and Sang were working together against their mother for a change? Well, Stone couldn't have that, so she made Marie a complete backstabbing bitch threefold. First, she steals all of Sang's clothes and gives them to her new BFF Danielle, who hands over her brother's old clothes as a trade, without Sang's consent. This includes... um, Nathan and one of the other guys' shirts that they gave Sang. (Hush, I only really remember three of the guys.) Apparently Danielle and other girls at school have started copying Sang's look (yeah right), so instead of buying new clothes, Danielle has Marie steal them even though they don't fit her. Second, Marie was escaping punishment by snitching on Sang's "activities", so their mother rewards her by giving Marie Sang's phone AND the clothes that she ripped off Sang as a punishment. Lastly, we find out Marie has been failing classes, stealing mom's pills to sell at school, and other delinquent behaviour. Wow.
The majority of the book is about one weekend. After having her clothes stolen, Victor, Gabriel, and, um, someone else take Sang shopping. Apparently Victor is loaded and buys Sang several thousand dollars worth of clothes. ($800 at a Victoria's Secret for ten bras and ten panties, I think that seems a bit high, and the Canadian prices are higher than the States, but whatever.) They also buy her new furniture, decorate her attic, and install cameras in her house. (Creepy.) After that, they have a sleepover at Kota's, where Gabriel gives Sang a makeover and a haircut. This is where, if you were skeptical about if Sang was really dating all seven of the guys, this really drives it home. They play Truth of Dare, and all the guys keep picking Sang. All of them hold her in their laps like she's a kitten. They're constantly holding her hand or touching her, not sexually, but not in a 'just friends' way either. When they go to sleep, at least four of them are touching Sang somewhere, be it her hand, foot, head, once again not sexual, but awkward. Kota's mom brings up dating, pressing Kota to take Sang out, while Victor gives her expensive jewelry and asks her out. Sang, the ever eager to please puppy who is desperate for attention, laps it all up and agrees. It's cringeworthy how dumb she is.
Let's talk about the guys. A couple of them are becoming more distinct to me where I can remember them. Victor is the rich one. Kota (currently my favourite, despite the fact that he loves Sang, just like everyone else), is smart, a leader, rational, and logical. Gabriel is the flamboyant one. Mr. Blackbourne and Dr. Green, I only remember because they're the "adults" (hahaha, nineteen year old high school teachers and medical doctors. Yeah right.). I remember names (Luke, Nathan, North, and Silas, who just took me ten seconds to remember his name. Fail), but nothing else about them. Oh, I remember that Sang sees Nathan's bare ass once. Yeah.
Sang's father leaves her mother, and mommy dearest wigs out. She accuses Sang of stealing money (which she didn't, although I think it was Marie or Mom was lying), steals her phone, rips off her clothes, and makes her lie naked in her father's empty closet. Apparently, if the epilogue from First Days wasn't a big enough clue, Sang's mother, the evil bitch from hell, is not her real mother. Mommy Dearest demands that Dad take Sang away because she's a dirty whore for having a phone and talking to boys, just like her mother (who was supposedly raped and committed suicide. Go big, Stone, my god). This is where you find out Marie was snitching and that Mom thinks Marie is an incorruptible angel because she's mom's real daughter. Dad is completely apathetic, saying he wants Sang and Marie to stay in the house while Mom is in the hospital. He has a totally different family that doesn't know his daughters exist, what a prick! That's why he was never there. And Sang, our idiotic heroine, agrees to do as he asks because she's a good girl. Fuck that.
You know what I wanted? I wanted to see Sang snap. When she saw Marie holding her phone, wearing her shorts and one of the guys' shirts, I wanted her to blow up big time. She should have revealed all of Marie's dirty laundry, slapped the bitch, and took her shit back. I wanted her to get in her mother's face and throw all the bad stuff she'd ever done at her, before threatening to call Child Services. I wanted her to flip her father off, tell him to go fuck himself, and leave to live with her harem. What did I get instead? Compliant Sang, who can do no wrong to others, bow her head in submissiveness, and agree to all the stupid shit around her. What the fuck is wrong with this girl?!
We get another pointless epilogue from Kota's point of view (who uses the cameras in Sang's house to spy on her, and saw her naked before. I knew the guys weren't going to be trustworthy with the surveillance). A small tidbit of the Academy is revealed (how they collect favours and money for doing assignments to get them out of a perceived debt), but not much else. Sang's "Ghost Bird" status (hence the series name) is expanded on. Mostly it's all nine boys arguing about who gets to date her. Their solution? Everyone gets to date her! Yeehaw! *facepalm* She has to initiate new things (kissing, dating), but all the guys can hold her hand, put her in their laps, and sleep in her bed (basically anything they'd already done). If one guy got something new, everyone else is entitled to it (so if Kota kisses her, everyone else can too). This shouldn't work. They're basically whoring her out amongst themselves. Why does it work? Because Sang is too fucking stupid to understand what's going on. If the book tells you Sang is smart, it's a lie. Show us, don't tell us. Using code in your diary is not super clever. Unintentionally causing nine guys to fight over you is not clever. Being interested in the boys keeping secrets IS NOT CLEVER. Sang just does whatever the boys want because she's too idiotic to know otherwise.
Also, Stone needs to look up what "fluttering" and "smirking" are. Sang is constantly fluttering her hands (the hell?) and everyone is smirking, which I don't think was the intended effect. Most of the time it seems like they're supposed to be smiling, but it says they're smirking. SO MUCH FLUTTERING AND SMIRKING THAT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE.
Such a trainwreck. A massive, multiple collision trainwreck.
July 5, 2018
This series is honestly so good and now I have to read ALL the books. I'm not stopping now.
March 29, 2017
I am still not learning from my mistakes!!
My curious cat still has 7 more lives left. Seems as if I will use all of them reading this series.
I just want to know or see some actions with all the Hs and the h..
My curious cat still has 7 more lives left. Seems as if I will use all of them reading this series.
I just want to know or see some actions with all the Hs and the h..
July 28, 2016
Dropped at page 160. Too repetitive and boring. Maybe I'll pick it up in the future.
January 24, 2015
I was so excited that the third book in this series came out. I like each of the characters for different reasons and C.L. Stone does a wonderful job describing them so that I have my own vivid perfect picture of each of "the boys" in my head :-)
I laughed really hard in this book (shopping with 7 boys at The Mall and Kota's Mom/haircut/Date scene were my favs) and I cried at parts too.
My favorite part was the end when the POV changes from Sang to another character :-) I hope there is more of that in Book 4 because I loved it.
I am glad some questions got answered: Like what is going on with Sang's parents? If there were any romantic feelings going on and we got a little more insight into the mysterious Academy.
At the end of the day i am still totally #teamKota
So glad book 4 is coming out in October as I can't wait to see where the story goes.
I laughed really hard in this book (shopping with 7 boys at The Mall and Kota's Mom/haircut/Date scene were my favs) and I cried at parts too.
My favorite part was the end when the POV changes from Sang to another character :-) I hope there is more of that in Book 4 because I loved it.
I am glad some questions got answered: Like what is going on with Sang's parents? If there were any romantic feelings going on and we got a little more insight into the mysterious Academy.
At the end of the day i am still totally #teamKota
So glad book 4 is coming out in October as I can't wait to see where the story goes.
March 10, 2021
This author have the rare ability of give me that rage feeling while I read it, I want to protect Sang with all my powers and throw her family into a vulcan. I wouldn't even feel bad about it
But she don't need me, because she have the 9 nicest guys ever on her side, all the male characters are swoon worthy, and the mystery/secret here is so interesting, each new book some questions are answered and more questions come
But she don't need me, because she have the 9 nicest guys ever on her side, all the male characters are swoon worthy, and the mystery/secret here is so interesting, each new book some questions are answered and more questions come
October 23, 2013
So, we have the Academy always there in the background, 1 girl, 7 guys (I don't count Mr Blackbourne and Dr Green for the moment) which are sweet, sexy, adorable, caring and so on and so on ... So yeah, I think it's safe to say that I'm addicted to this series !
September 4, 2013
OCTOBER CAN'T GET HERE FAST ENOUGH!! Seriously, I am an adult and this series has me hooked.
May 23, 2019
Well, just as I said before, it's getting better and better. I'm completely addicted to The Academy!.
The story is growing and getting stronger, this time started with such a hard and shocking scene that I honestly couldn't believe what I was reading. I loved it. I love how it keeps surprising me constantly, how it makes me laugh, and thankfully I had plenty of that with Gabriel *.* and Kota's mom. The plot is so contrasting and flowing it gives you no chance for distraction.
And the boys...I feel like Sang, I don't want stay way from them (October come here!). Each one is so amazing and wonderful in their own way of being despite their issues. Every time I feel like leaning towards one of them immediately comes another and I just can't/don't want to pick one. But being honest, Kota is slowly melting my heart.
This series has become one of my favorites with only 3 books published :). Thank you C.L. Stone once again for the copy and your gentleness!!.
The story is growing and getting stronger, this time started with such a hard and shocking scene that I honestly couldn't believe what I was reading. I loved it. I love how it keeps surprising me constantly, how it makes me laugh, and thankfully I had plenty of that with Gabriel *.* and Kota's mom. The plot is so contrasting and flowing it gives you no chance for distraction.
And the boys...I feel like Sang, I don't want stay way from them (October come here!). Each one is so amazing and wonderful in their own way of being despite their issues. Every time I feel like leaning towards one of them immediately comes another and I just can't/don't want to pick one. But being honest, Kota is slowly melting my heart.
This series has become one of my favorites with only 3 books published :). Thank you C.L. Stone once again for the copy and your gentleness!!.
September 14, 2013
Please see my full review here
I LOVE these books, I love the idea of an unconventional, poly-amorous relationship between Sang and the Academy guys, and I truly hope that C.L. Stone continues in that particular vein, realizing that her readers may not be opposed to that, as it can be done without sordidness and will be a welcome change from the whole Team Boy A vs Team Boy B. It will allow for a Team Everyone, and then everyone wins :-)
I LOVE these books, I love the idea of an unconventional, poly-amorous relationship between Sang and the Academy guys, and I truly hope that C.L. Stone continues in that particular vein, realizing that her readers may not be opposed to that, as it can be done without sordidness and will be a welcome change from the whole Team Boy A vs Team Boy B. It will allow for a Team Everyone, and then everyone wins :-)
September 14, 2013
Can't believe how much I've loved this series! I'm not one to reread books but I've read all 3 twice already. Love the characters and how well I feel I know them. Looking forward to learning more about all of the guys and how Sang fits into their plans.
January 6, 2015
This is definitely one of the best series I have ever read. The dialogue seriously had me cracking up. I love it.
First read 09/06/13
First read 09/06/13
November 4, 2013
I can't decide how I feel about these books... I keep wanting to know what's going to happen next so I buy the next book, but I'm also kind of weirded out by them.
July 13, 2018
The boys from the Academy really get a chance to show Sang how much they care about her in this installment of the series when her mother increases the abuse to dangerous levels. The guys rescue her physically and emotionally. Sang learns that family doesn't necessarily mean blood. At the end of the book, Sang
Ok, so I'm actually up to book 8 as I write this review, but I think it gives me a different perspective to share. Like I mentioned in my review for book 2, I was a little perturbed by the slow pace of these books (probably because I've read a few other reverse harem series that move A LOT quicker), but now that I am farther along in the series, I can appreciate that SLOW burn and the build-up of anticipation. I love how Sang is so smart, but so naive in the world, especially when it comes to guys. And I absolutely love all the guys and their individual personalities.
Ok, so I'm actually up to book 8 as I write this review, but I think it gives me a different perspective to share. Like I mentioned in my review for book 2, I was a little perturbed by the slow pace of these books (probably because I've read a few other reverse harem series that move A LOT quicker), but now that I am farther along in the series, I can appreciate that SLOW burn and the build-up of anticipation. I love how Sang is so smart, but so naive in the world, especially when it comes to guys. And I absolutely love all the guys and their individual personalities.
September 22, 2023
I saw a reviewer compare these books to Japanese reverse harem books.
I hate best it have no fucking clue where they got THAT idea from.
My 19 yr old daughter, has been reading Japanese romances since she was 13 and recently got into the RH genre and showed me some of the stories she has been reading.
They are racy as FUCK!
These books are more geared to children, and an intro to turtle based heat.
The books, although are intriguing, are children's stories. Full of angst and will he like me, does he really like me, mumbo jumbo.
Don't get me wrong. I have gotten a wee bit of a o cm from n these books, and they are cute to fill in some time between reads but, these should NOT be comparable to Japanese RH.
Sigh.
Heading into yet can there book and she hasn't even gotten to 2nd base.
Not even a kiss on the cheek.
A MAYBE brush of Victor's lips on her forehead but she wasn't sure.
Honestly, now, I'm getting bored.
I hate best it have no fucking clue where they got THAT idea from.
My 19 yr old daughter, has been reading Japanese romances since she was 13 and recently got into the RH genre and showed me some of the stories she has been reading.
They are racy as FUCK!
These books are more geared to children, and an intro to turtle based heat.
The books, although are intriguing, are children's stories. Full of angst and will he like me, does he really like me, mumbo jumbo.
Don't get me wrong. I have gotten a wee bit of a o cm from n these books, and they are cute to fill in some time between reads but, these should NOT be comparable to Japanese RH.
Sigh.
Heading into yet can there book and she hasn't even gotten to 2nd base.
Not even a kiss on the cheek.
A MAYBE brush of Victor's lips on her forehead but she wasn't sure.
Honestly, now, I'm getting bored.
January 31, 2015
Hallelujah! We are finally getting some long awaited answers in the Ghost Bird Series. From the beginning the author has kept the reader in the dark about Sang's background as well as the true nature of the Academy. In "Friends vs. Family" we finally get some much awaited answers without too much being revealed.
Sang's mother's behavior has reached an all-time high in the abuse department but we finally discover the true nature of her illness. We also get a better feel for her sister, Marie, and believe me when I say she is more like her mother than we could ever want. She also begins treating Sang with such a blatant disregard that I wanted to slap her into next week.
I would love to say, Sang's father is better; but, honestly he is one selfish and self-centered mo fo. The sheer nastiness of her family causes the boys to step up to the plate and show her what being cherished and taken care of is all about. Sang learns that just because you are born into a family doesn't truly make people family.
While the boys come to her rescue time and time again they face the added challenge of what exactly are they going to do with her in both the long and short run. Even Mr. Blackthourne is stumped. They don't want to push her too quickly and lose her trust nor do they want to reveal too much about themselves or her past. Boy, what a tangled web.
For this of you who has been looking at this series but have not taken the plunge, what the heck are you waiting for? This gem will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat and keep you guessing!
Sang's mother's behavior has reached an all-time high in the abuse department but we finally discover the true nature of her illness. We also get a better feel for her sister, Marie, and believe me when I say she is more like her mother than we could ever want. She also begins treating Sang with such a blatant disregard that I wanted to slap her into next week.
I would love to say, Sang's father is better; but, honestly he is one selfish and self-centered mo fo. The sheer nastiness of her family causes the boys to step up to the plate and show her what being cherished and taken care of is all about. Sang learns that just because you are born into a family doesn't truly make people family.
While the boys come to her rescue time and time again they face the added challenge of what exactly are they going to do with her in both the long and short run. Even Mr. Blackthourne is stumped. They don't want to push her too quickly and lose her trust nor do they want to reveal too much about themselves or her past. Boy, what a tangled web.
For this of you who has been looking at this series but have not taken the plunge, what the heck are you waiting for? This gem will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat and keep you guessing!
June 17, 2014
OMGAWD! things are heating up. There has been a number of heart stopping moments here esp. involving Sang's abusive mom. But the academy boys are always stepping up to the rescue. Finally my hunch about her mom was right. And her dad was just as awful abandoning them like that. Sang really need to learn to be selfish this time, they don't deserve her sweet mercy. Meanwhile, the academy boys are trying to provide all the emotional and material support to her and they seriously want to take her away from her bleak home life and be with them. I love how they thought through about handling their interest towards Sang beyond mere friendship. Can they all really learn to share her? I hope so. Also Blackbourne made a lot of thoughtful points about how Sang need to come into her own feelings and not become co dependent with them in the long term. She needs to realize what she really wants and learn how to voice them out rather than influence her feelings for she is still youn and naive and therefore impressionable. Also I don't care about that Marie girl she is useless and she can grow up to be a criminal and go to jail for all I care.
Question burning in my mind is who is Sang? who is her real mother? I hope the A boys can help clear that mystery up.
Question burning in my mind is who is Sang? who is her real mother? I hope the A boys can help clear that mystery up.
July 24, 2014
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
A story of Snow White and the seven cute boys who protect her probably shouldn't work as well as this series is doing - yet somehow by the end, even though there is no real romantic frontrunner in this enjoyable harem series yet, one is hooked.
In volume 3, Sang's mother ramps up the paranoia and punishment. But a weekend spent with the boys and a makeover puts Sang into a good place that even her family's crisis can't ruin. But all that will change as her father's mysterious disappearances for 'work' and her own true background will be revealed. Fans of the series will welcome all the revelations in the end and look forward to how this will greatly change the story in the coming volume.
The boys will get more backstory, more of the academy will be revealed, and clearly Sang is heading toward a major decision in her life thanks to her unusual circumstances. It all makes for an enjoyable read.
October 27, 2013
Grrrr!!!! Sang's family is so frustrating, especially Sang! She's so dutiful to her family even after all the things they've done to her. I wanted to slap some sense into her. On the other note, I fell more deeply in love with the boys *swoons*. They all tried to protect Sang at every challenges thrown at her, it borders in to overprotective. Probability of all of the boys already in love with her is probably 98%, that includes Dr. Green and Mr. Blackbourne.
In this book, some of the boys started opening up and telling their own background. All of them have their own rough lives before The Academy. For some of them, they probably still live roughly but more or less toned down. They see some of their past selves in Sang so they do their best to protect her.
*Spoiler* I wanna have a sleepover with the boys too!!!! I laughed so hard during the truth or dare. Gabe with the lipgloss was priceless!
I had a foreboding feeling when Sang realized that she could date the guys. I hope the group won't fall apart.
In this book, some of the boys started opening up and telling their own background. All of them have their own rough lives before The Academy. For some of them, they probably still live roughly but more or less toned down. They see some of their past selves in Sang so they do their best to protect her.
*Spoiler* I wanna have a sleepover with the boys too!!!! I laughed so hard during the truth or dare. Gabe with the lipgloss was priceless!
I had a foreboding feeling when Sang realized that she could date the guys. I hope the group won't fall apart.
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