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The Infinity Trials #1
Boy in the Mirror
Fifteen-year-old Jacqueline Talbot’s boyfriend Mal lives in the mirror of her makeup case. There’s never been anything normal about Jacqueline; not during her time in foster care, and certainly not in her new hometown of Mercy Hills.
With rumors of actual monsters in the woods, the popular kids taking an unhealthy interest in her, and the revealing of her own dark past, all Jacqueline wants to do is run away forever with Mal. Too bad he’s trapped in the mirror.
But when she learns the ancient forces of the town want to destroy everything she loves, the race is on to free the boy in the mirror, because he just might be the only one who knows how to stop them.
With rumors of actual monsters in the woods, the popular kids taking an unhealthy interest in her, and the revealing of her own dark past, all Jacqueline wants to do is run away forever with Mal. Too bad he’s trapped in the mirror.
But when she learns the ancient forces of the town want to destroy everything she loves, the race is on to free the boy in the mirror, because he just might be the only one who knows how to stop them.
360 pages, Paperback
First published January 2, 2015
About the author
Robert J. Duperre
26 books106 followersBorn on Cape Cod and raised in northern Connecticut, Robert Duperre is a writer whose main ambition is to create works that defy genre. His first novel, "The Fall: The Rift Book I" is now available in paperback and for the Amazon Kindle.
Robert lives with his wife, the artist Jessica Torrant, his three wonderful children, and Leonardo, the super one-eyed Labrador.
Robert lives with his wife, the artist Jessica Torrant, his three wonderful children, and Leonardo, the super one-eyed Labrador.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 28, 2020
This wasn't for me, just something I couldn't really get into - highlighted by the fact I cannot recall what I read.
Characters didn't draw me in and keep my attention.
Freebie on amazon
Characters didn't draw me in and keep my attention.
Freebie on amazon
December 6, 2017
I’m not one of those writers who writes thoughtful and insightful reviews. Basically, I gush to my friends that you just have to read it. Or leave a few words on Amazon to say that I enjoyed it. If I ever put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard in this case) it’s because I really enjoyed the story. I guess I’m like many readers: I have to really be moved to write a review.
So here’s my summation of why you should pick up this book.
The opening chapters are wonderful. just. Wonderful. I was hooked right away because I really enjoy the concept of ancient magic and archaeology, and the first bit fairly thrums with creepy narrative that scratches both of those itches for me. If you enjoy dropping down into an ancient world where the thrill of discovery is spiced with the threat of ancient magic, you will totally be taken in by this opening like I was. It had a hint of Indiana Jones meets the Mummy, and yet it’s neither of those things. You just have to read it to find out why.
There are literally no grammar errors. If this is the sort of thing that drives you crazy, you’ll be very pleased to know that Robert has impeccable and inspiring prose.
There’s a heaviness to the book that makes you want desperately to find a release, and that drives you forward through the story and makes it hard to put down. I think it’s the dread that Robert captures really well of being in an adolescent body, still trying to find your true self. There’s the overt characterization of self discover and then there is the extended metaphor, the plot device of using evil and shadow worlds to explore that darkness in all of us. Darkness thrums in every word. And you know that in any moment, you could turn the corner into something bright and blazing.
The story is solid and imaginative. While it has roots in the ancient, it’s very much a contemporary book. It explores some very real issues that plague teens in this era, as well as some old fashioned, nefarious ones.
Robert mentions at the end that he let his own fears drive much of the plot surrounding the characterization of Jackie, and because of that the writing of her felt very visceral and authentic.
This book is part of a series and even though the book ends with a satisfying finish, there is still enough story left to fill another book. I love the thought that I can hope for another part of the tale.
Robert explores many aspects of human nature as well as offering a story that has a hint of gothic
feel and lots of supernatural horror. You are forever trying to figure out who the bad guy is, so the story is complex and clever enough that you keep shifting your alliances.
I think if you pick this up you’ll be plenty satisfied and I encourage you to grab it—you can read it as a stand-alone without trouble.
So here’s my summation of why you should pick up this book.
The opening chapters are wonderful. just. Wonderful. I was hooked right away because I really enjoy the concept of ancient magic and archaeology, and the first bit fairly thrums with creepy narrative that scratches both of those itches for me. If you enjoy dropping down into an ancient world where the thrill of discovery is spiced with the threat of ancient magic, you will totally be taken in by this opening like I was. It had a hint of Indiana Jones meets the Mummy, and yet it’s neither of those things. You just have to read it to find out why.
There are literally no grammar errors. If this is the sort of thing that drives you crazy, you’ll be very pleased to know that Robert has impeccable and inspiring prose.
There’s a heaviness to the book that makes you want desperately to find a release, and that drives you forward through the story and makes it hard to put down. I think it’s the dread that Robert captures really well of being in an adolescent body, still trying to find your true self. There’s the overt characterization of self discover and then there is the extended metaphor, the plot device of using evil and shadow worlds to explore that darkness in all of us. Darkness thrums in every word. And you know that in any moment, you could turn the corner into something bright and blazing.
The story is solid and imaginative. While it has roots in the ancient, it’s very much a contemporary book. It explores some very real issues that plague teens in this era, as well as some old fashioned, nefarious ones.
Robert mentions at the end that he let his own fears drive much of the plot surrounding the characterization of Jackie, and because of that the writing of her felt very visceral and authentic.
This book is part of a series and even though the book ends with a satisfying finish, there is still enough story left to fill another book. I love the thought that I can hope for another part of the tale.
Robert explores many aspects of human nature as well as offering a story that has a hint of gothic
feel and lots of supernatural horror. You are forever trying to figure out who the bad guy is, so the story is complex and clever enough that you keep shifting your alliances.
I think if you pick this up you’ll be plenty satisfied and I encourage you to grab it—you can read it as a stand-alone without trouble.
June 2, 2020
It's been awhile since a book gripped me so tightly and made me feel that powerful curiosity to just know what's really going on and this one has done just that! There is just so much weird stuff going on in this one it's not funny! You have an innocent little town in Connecticut that is actually full of dark secrets. And that's what the main character faces when the aunt she didn't even know she had comes to get her from a foster home. It's all very unusual if you ask me! There was no officials involved I don't think, you know? And she has this magic mirror too, with a boy in if..but who is he? Should she be telling him everything like she does? Is he even real? How did he get into the mirror?
And if that isn't enough, then there's some kind of killer loose in town too! But is it a person or a thing? No one knows! And it might be looking for a particular girl.
One thing I really liked about this book besides the suspense and the weird mysteries was the group that Jackie fell into. The Otaku group. They just seemed very welcoming and warm..and after her tramatic childhood she needed someone like them. Her behavior seems very realistic too.
The teen drama in the book seemed real too. You got the little groups and the nasty characters that think they're cool...
But this book runs on suspense and dark secrets. It's very similar to Fear Street, so if you love that you'd probably like this one too...
I did guess one part of the story before the end but I do enjoy guessing..
And if that isn't enough, then there's some kind of killer loose in town too! But is it a person or a thing? No one knows! And it might be looking for a particular girl.
One thing I really liked about this book besides the suspense and the weird mysteries was the group that Jackie fell into. The Otaku group. They just seemed very welcoming and warm..and after her tramatic childhood she needed someone like them. Her behavior seems very realistic too.
The teen drama in the book seemed real too. You got the little groups and the nasty characters that think they're cool...
But this book runs on suspense and dark secrets. It's very similar to Fear Street, so if you love that you'd probably like this one too...
I did guess one part of the story before the end but I do enjoy guessing..
February 6, 2017
Let me start by saying this book is weird. Like, very weird. It took me awhile to get into it honestly but once I did, I really enjoyed it! But yeah...weird. Read it with an open mind and you could be surprised.
The book starts off with a young boy getting possessed (for lack of a better word) by something called The Prophet. Be ready to not hear about this boy for several chapters. As I reading an advanced copy with no page numbers, I believe I read about 20% of the book before he reappeared again.
Your main character is Jacqueline, a 15 year old foster girl with a boy she talks to who lives in her compact. See..weird. The boy’s name is Mal and he is the one good thing in her life as she has moved between homes in her 5 years in foster care.
Her mother died when she was little then her father was put to death because he was convicted of killing over 300 people in a church fire. As she had no family, she landed in foster care.
At 15, an Aunt Mitzy shows up at her current home to claim her. This is when things all seem to change. She moves to a new town where she finally makes some friends and even gets feelings for a boy (who ended up being not so good). Life seems to be heading in the right direction.
But there is a force at work that needs Jacqueline. She is the key. And both the sides of good and evil are fighting for her.
This book is just part one of a series (I believe I read on the author’s twitter it would be 4 books) and it ends that way, pretty unresolved but in a good way. I want to know what happens next.
I “called” a twist (if one could call it that) but more towards the end and not right off the bat which is a cool change. Sometimes figuring things out early doesn’t lead to easy reading.
Boy in the Mirror is part Exorcist, part Watcher in the Woods (one scene in particular had me thinking of that movie), part every book/movie where good and evil wage war. What side do you chose? What side is right? What side is really the evil side? Hopefully all questions that will be answered in the coming sequels.
I’m glad I got the chance to read this book and I’m glad I gave it a chance, not giving up when it seemed too weird to try. I recommend you give it a try. If sci-fi/horror are your kinds of work, this book is probably up your ally.
The book starts off with a young boy getting possessed (for lack of a better word) by something called The Prophet. Be ready to not hear about this boy for several chapters. As I reading an advanced copy with no page numbers, I believe I read about 20% of the book before he reappeared again.
Your main character is Jacqueline, a 15 year old foster girl with a boy she talks to who lives in her compact. See..weird. The boy’s name is Mal and he is the one good thing in her life as she has moved between homes in her 5 years in foster care.
Her mother died when she was little then her father was put to death because he was convicted of killing over 300 people in a church fire. As she had no family, she landed in foster care.
At 15, an Aunt Mitzy shows up at her current home to claim her. This is when things all seem to change. She moves to a new town where she finally makes some friends and even gets feelings for a boy (who ended up being not so good). Life seems to be heading in the right direction.
But there is a force at work that needs Jacqueline. She is the key. And both the sides of good and evil are fighting for her.
This book is just part one of a series (I believe I read on the author’s twitter it would be 4 books) and it ends that way, pretty unresolved but in a good way. I want to know what happens next.
I “called” a twist (if one could call it that) but more towards the end and not right off the bat which is a cool change. Sometimes figuring things out early doesn’t lead to easy reading.
Boy in the Mirror is part Exorcist, part Watcher in the Woods (one scene in particular had me thinking of that movie), part every book/movie where good and evil wage war. What side do you chose? What side is right? What side is really the evil side? Hopefully all questions that will be answered in the coming sequels.
I’m glad I got the chance to read this book and I’m glad I gave it a chance, not giving up when it seemed too weird to try. I recommend you give it a try. If sci-fi/horror are your kinds of work, this book is probably up your ally.
June 10, 2018
Review: BOY IN THE MIRROR by Robert J. Duperre
(The Infinity Trials #1)
WOW! Sometimes my first response is speechlessness! I loved BOY IN THE MIRROR! Totally engrossing from the very commencement, this wonderful novel offers a balance of contemporary issues (child abuse, parental demise, rape culture, socioeconomic class discrepancy) as over against occult fantasy, religious cult devotion, monsters. Throughout the author offers characters realistic and comprehensible, some entirely adorable, others that made me grit my teeth; an empowered and utterly empathetic fifteen-year-old heroine who, all unknowing, is on a Quest; and not one but three guys in Hero roles. I can't wait to continue this series!
(The Infinity Trials #1)
WOW! Sometimes my first response is speechlessness! I loved BOY IN THE MIRROR! Totally engrossing from the very commencement, this wonderful novel offers a balance of contemporary issues (child abuse, parental demise, rape culture, socioeconomic class discrepancy) as over against occult fantasy, religious cult devotion, monsters. Throughout the author offers characters realistic and comprehensible, some entirely adorable, others that made me grit my teeth; an empowered and utterly empathetic fifteen-year-old heroine who, all unknowing, is on a Quest; and not one but three guys in Hero roles. I can't wait to continue this series!
March 4, 2019
This was not at all what I expected when I requested this book from Netgalley. As it turns out, it's so much more than I expected. I figured there would be some sort of paranormal aspect since there was a boy stuck in a mirror. I didn't know quite how far it would go. For the most part I thought the characters were well done and interesting. The surprises just kept coming, especially the ending! I did not see that coming. It was a quick smack in the face leaving things open for a second book. I'm definitely going to have to get ahold of that second book!
July 16, 2015
An author I'm a fan of recommended this book, so I took a chance. Keep in mind that 2 stars just means "it was ok" and this was by no means a bad book. I just wasn't in to it.
Jackie - the heroine of the book - was interesting, but I couldn't stand her. She made terrible decisions over and over again, though I understand she's 15 and had a crappy upbringing it mostly just felt like poor excuses.
Anyhow, this book felt like it just kept going on and on...and on and on...
Jackie - the heroine of the book - was interesting, but I couldn't stand her. She made terrible decisions over and over again, though I understand she's 15 and had a crappy upbringing it mostly just felt like poor excuses.
Anyhow, this book felt like it just kept going on and on...and on and on...
April 7, 2017
The boy in the mirror by Robert j Duperre.
Fifteen-year-old Jacqueline Talbot’s boyfriend Mal lives in the mirror of her makeup case. There’s never been anything normal about Jacqueline; not during her time in foster care, and certainly not in her new hometown of Mercy Hills.
With rumors of actual monsters in the woods, the popular kids taking an unhealthy interest in her, and the revealing of her own dark past, all Jacqueline wants to do is run away forever with Mal. Too bad he’s trapped in the mirror.
But when she learns the ancient forces of the town want to destroy everything she loves, the race is on to free the boy in the mirror, because he just might be the only one who knows how to stop them.
fantastic read with brilliant characters. I loved the story too. Can't wait for next part. 5*. Netgalley and victory editing.
Fifteen-year-old Jacqueline Talbot’s boyfriend Mal lives in the mirror of her makeup case. There’s never been anything normal about Jacqueline; not during her time in foster care, and certainly not in her new hometown of Mercy Hills.
With rumors of actual monsters in the woods, the popular kids taking an unhealthy interest in her, and the revealing of her own dark past, all Jacqueline wants to do is run away forever with Mal. Too bad he’s trapped in the mirror.
But when she learns the ancient forces of the town want to destroy everything she loves, the race is on to free the boy in the mirror, because he just might be the only one who knows how to stop them.
fantastic read with brilliant characters. I loved the story too. Can't wait for next part. 5*. Netgalley and victory editing.
July 10, 2022
Kind of predictable but relatively enjoyable.
February 19, 2015
Jacqueline Talbot hasn’t led an easy life since she was orphaned at a young age, shuffling from foster home to home ever since. She’s been seen as a bit troubled since her father received the death penalty for murdering several people after her mother passed away. But just when the last foster home seemed like it was the most oppressive, Jacqueline’s unknown Aunt Mitzy sweeps in and takes custody of her niece, bringing Jacqueline back to live in her parents’ home town of Mercy Hills.
The clean slate isn’t so picture perfect…
Jacqueline is thrilled to start over in a place where no one knows that her father was a murderer, and she’s so happy to finally have real family. As she makes friends with a band of quirky misfits that love anime and video games, she also unwittingly attracts the attention of a few of the popular boys. But she harbors a secret that would make her look crazy: her best friend/boyfriend is a boy in a compact mirror that she inherited from her mother, and working to free Mal from his mirror prison is one of her main priorities.
The citizens of Mercy Hills aren’t white washed…
The racial diversity if The Mirror of Souls is quite refreshing. Jacqueline is half Indian, her group of friends includes a Puerto Rican girl, a Vietnamese boy, and one of the popular boys that is drawn to Jacqueline is black. None of the characters are written in a stereotypical way, other than being regular teenagers, and I quite enjoyed the change up here that most novels don’t have.
Jacqueline’s no shrinking violet, nor does she wallow in pity for long…
Jacqueline had to develop a tough skin living in different foster and group homes over the years, and after she’s made a few mistakes along the way, she’s learned that wallowing in self-pity doesn’t get her very far. She’s always had Mal to run to when things got rough–even though he’s trapped in the mirror–and he’s been a great support system for her. When things in Mercy Falls start to go south and grow dangerous, with monsters popping up to take them out, she must find the will to fight–for herself, her aunt, and her friends.
Third person POV gives you a well rounded view without giving you whiplash…
The Mirror of Souls is told in third person point of view, so you get a good look at what’s happening in and around Mercy Falls–not just what’s happening with Jacqueline. Robert Duperre does an excellent job of switching POVs without head hopping excessively, so these transitions are seemless and really flow naturally.
Bottom Line: I give The Mirror of Souls a five out of five. This book seriously knocked me out with fantastic world building, great horror, and good character introductions and development. Even though this is slated as young adult, I’d say this is skewed a bit on the older side of the spectrum with some drug use and other situations. The ending has me wanting book two right now.
(Also on Bewitched Bookworms. Copy provided by author in exchange for honest review)
The clean slate isn’t so picture perfect…
Jacqueline is thrilled to start over in a place where no one knows that her father was a murderer, and she’s so happy to finally have real family. As she makes friends with a band of quirky misfits that love anime and video games, she also unwittingly attracts the attention of a few of the popular boys. But she harbors a secret that would make her look crazy: her best friend/boyfriend is a boy in a compact mirror that she inherited from her mother, and working to free Mal from his mirror prison is one of her main priorities.
The citizens of Mercy Hills aren’t white washed…
The racial diversity if The Mirror of Souls is quite refreshing. Jacqueline is half Indian, her group of friends includes a Puerto Rican girl, a Vietnamese boy, and one of the popular boys that is drawn to Jacqueline is black. None of the characters are written in a stereotypical way, other than being regular teenagers, and I quite enjoyed the change up here that most novels don’t have.
Jacqueline’s no shrinking violet, nor does she wallow in pity for long…
Jacqueline had to develop a tough skin living in different foster and group homes over the years, and after she’s made a few mistakes along the way, she’s learned that wallowing in self-pity doesn’t get her very far. She’s always had Mal to run to when things got rough–even though he’s trapped in the mirror–and he’s been a great support system for her. When things in Mercy Falls start to go south and grow dangerous, with monsters popping up to take them out, she must find the will to fight–for herself, her aunt, and her friends.
Third person POV gives you a well rounded view without giving you whiplash…
The Mirror of Souls is told in third person point of view, so you get a good look at what’s happening in and around Mercy Falls–not just what’s happening with Jacqueline. Robert Duperre does an excellent job of switching POVs without head hopping excessively, so these transitions are seemless and really flow naturally.
Bottom Line: I give The Mirror of Souls a five out of five. This book seriously knocked me out with fantastic world building, great horror, and good character introductions and development. Even though this is slated as young adult, I’d say this is skewed a bit on the older side of the spectrum with some drug use and other situations. The ending has me wanting book two right now.
(Also on Bewitched Bookworms. Copy provided by author in exchange for honest review)
May 7, 2015
I was given this book by the author for an honest review a couple weeks ago.
I was like "WOAH WOAH WOAH! Silas Dude... I'm reading 'Gone with the Wind' right now. This might take a while to get to."
And because he's not the kind of indie author that would like you to stop everything that you're doing he was like "Yeah. That's cool. Just get to it when you can and if not then that's cool too."
That's always nice to hear. Some indie authors will pressure you. He was just like "You're my bud! Here's a free book!"
I'm cool with that.
I read the first half of "Gone with the Wind" and then got a little depressed with the whole Reconstruction era that I decided to Rob's book. I've read a couple of his books. My most favorite is "Silas". That's why he gets called that by me. I can't ever remember people's names.
It took me a couple days to read the book. So, it's not super long if you are hoping it's not. I was really hoping it wasn't like 800 pages. It's not even 400 pages so that worked for me.
It's also YA if you are looking for something like that. I didn't know that until I got half-way through.
I was looking for a bit more horror. I think that was mainly my mood. There is horror but I wanted the characters to delve into a world that lies under your bed with pointy teeth.
BUT! There are pointy teeth so that was good.
This was more of an introduction to a horror novel. Does that make sense? I think that's because it's a series. If this was just a standalone this would be more of a thriller. But this just makes me look forward to Book 2 which is due out in the summer.
I thought it was super cute that the author had help from his daughter while writing this book. I was curious how a dude knew how teenage girls thought.
I'm unsure if this is a boy/girl book. At the moment it seems more geared towards teenage girls. And that's not because it's too froo froo. It's because from my experience with my teenage son.... boys can be pretty sexist when it comes to books with a female heroine. Girls on the other hand tend to read about both boys and girls.
I did have one part figured out. But maybe that's because I'm awesome... or maybe I just got awesome. But the ending might make you gaspity gasp. I had a couple of different predictions but my final one was right.
All in all it was a fun read!
I was like "WOAH WOAH WOAH! Silas Dude... I'm reading 'Gone with the Wind' right now. This might take a while to get to."
And because he's not the kind of indie author that would like you to stop everything that you're doing he was like "Yeah. That's cool. Just get to it when you can and if not then that's cool too."
That's always nice to hear. Some indie authors will pressure you. He was just like "You're my bud! Here's a free book!"
I'm cool with that.
I read the first half of "Gone with the Wind" and then got a little depressed with the whole Reconstruction era that I decided to Rob's book. I've read a couple of his books. My most favorite is "Silas". That's why he gets called that by me. I can't ever remember people's names.
It took me a couple days to read the book. So, it's not super long if you are hoping it's not. I was really hoping it wasn't like 800 pages. It's not even 400 pages so that worked for me.
It's also YA if you are looking for something like that. I didn't know that until I got half-way through.
I was looking for a bit more horror. I think that was mainly my mood. There is horror but I wanted the characters to delve into a world that lies under your bed with pointy teeth.
BUT! There are pointy teeth so that was good.
This was more of an introduction to a horror novel. Does that make sense? I think that's because it's a series. If this was just a standalone this would be more of a thriller. But this just makes me look forward to Book 2 which is due out in the summer.
I thought it was super cute that the author had help from his daughter while writing this book. I was curious how a dude knew how teenage girls thought.
I'm unsure if this is a boy/girl book. At the moment it seems more geared towards teenage girls. And that's not because it's too froo froo. It's because from my experience with my teenage son.... boys can be pretty sexist when it comes to books with a female heroine. Girls on the other hand tend to read about both boys and girls.
I did have one part figured out. But maybe that's because I'm awesome... or maybe I just got awesome. But the ending might make you gaspity gasp. I had a couple of different predictions but my final one was right.
All in all it was a fun read!
January 17, 2015
The Mirror of Souls by RJ Duperre
Fifteen year old Jaqueline Talbot moves to Mercy Hills with her Aunt. She just wants a normal life. She has a boyfriend that lives in a mirror, the popular kids want to be friends with her, and she meets a new group of (misfit) friends. Life is pretty good for her so far. She hears of the urban legend of monsters in the town, and when things get a bit rough Jackie just wants to run away with Mal (the boyfriend in her compact mirror). Then she finds out that the ancients want to destroy the town, her her friends, everything she loves. It becomes a race against time to free Mal from the mirror and stop the disaster that is about to happen.
A fast paced suspense filled (story) with drama and secrets, it is very intense. I enjoyed the story, and Jackie is very likable. She is a teen with everyday problems, fitting in, liking boys and high school drama. Then the suspense begins. I liked not knowing what would happen next, just when I thought I had it figured out, a new twist would occur. I was hooked from the first page. A true all night read. I highly recommend The Mirror of Souls to those who love Horror/Urban legends. (Great for Young Adult as well as Adult readers).
Fifteen year old Jaqueline Talbot moves to Mercy Hills with her Aunt. She just wants a normal life. She has a boyfriend that lives in a mirror, the popular kids want to be friends with her, and she meets a new group of (misfit) friends. Life is pretty good for her so far. She hears of the urban legend of monsters in the town, and when things get a bit rough Jackie just wants to run away with Mal (the boyfriend in her compact mirror). Then she finds out that the ancients want to destroy the town, her her friends, everything she loves. It becomes a race against time to free Mal from the mirror and stop the disaster that is about to happen.
A fast paced suspense filled (story) with drama and secrets, it is very intense. I enjoyed the story, and Jackie is very likable. She is a teen with everyday problems, fitting in, liking boys and high school drama. Then the suspense begins. I liked not knowing what would happen next, just when I thought I had it figured out, a new twist would occur. I was hooked from the first page. A true all night read. I highly recommend The Mirror of Souls to those who love Horror/Urban legends. (Great for Young Adult as well as Adult readers).
February 9, 2019
I had no idea what was happening in this book half the time. The non-fantasy parts of the story (being a foster child, moving away to start over with her aunt) were more entertaining than the fantasy of the story.
July 13, 2015
It's OK. I didn't finish it. Put on the 'not-my-cup-of-tea' shelf.
January 17, 2021
“Chosen One” teenager discovers she is the only one who can save the world, is not ready for it, builds own family because family of origin is gone.
How many of these books have we read, how many TV shows have we seen? Is this just a tapped-out trope now, with a genre with nothing new left to say?
As always, the answer to that question depends on the talent of the author, to create something unique and interesting out of a story we think we know. Intriguing characters change a plot from same old-same old to something new. And that is what the author does here. Jackie is flawed and impulsive and very much a teenager, and she wavers back and forth between the maturity forced on her by years of trauma and experience, and the desire to be “normal” that is so intense it leads her into some truly unfortunate decisions. But even her mistakes are relatable—even when I know something she’s doing is a bad idea, I can see why she’s making the decision, instead of the feeling that she’s just throwing darts at a board to determine what her next bad move will be.
I finished the first book with a pile of questions, and I’m halfway through the second while I’m writing this review. There are questions from the first book that have been answered (at least, I think they’ve been answered—that may change in later volumes), but there are more that haven’t been addressed yet. I still think there’s something weird about the cookies, and I suspect I know what it is, but it hasn’t been resolved yet. Watching the threads of the plot weave together, pull apart, and then unravel in new directions keep me reading straight through, as did some hair-raising descriptions of demons, monsters, and humans who are capable of more evil than either.
So, strong recommendation for the book and series, at least so far. Maybe I’ll get to the end and be furious, and come back and edit this. But even if I want to throw my phone at the end, it will mean I was invested in the story and the characters, and that’s what we’re all looking for.
How many of these books have we read, how many TV shows have we seen? Is this just a tapped-out trope now, with a genre with nothing new left to say?
As always, the answer to that question depends on the talent of the author, to create something unique and interesting out of a story we think we know. Intriguing characters change a plot from same old-same old to something new. And that is what the author does here. Jackie is flawed and impulsive and very much a teenager, and she wavers back and forth between the maturity forced on her by years of trauma and experience, and the desire to be “normal” that is so intense it leads her into some truly unfortunate decisions. But even her mistakes are relatable—even when I know something she’s doing is a bad idea, I can see why she’s making the decision, instead of the feeling that she’s just throwing darts at a board to determine what her next bad move will be.
I finished the first book with a pile of questions, and I’m halfway through the second while I’m writing this review. There are questions from the first book that have been answered (at least, I think they’ve been answered—that may change in later volumes), but there are more that haven’t been addressed yet. I still think there’s something weird about the cookies, and I suspect I know what it is, but it hasn’t been resolved yet. Watching the threads of the plot weave together, pull apart, and then unravel in new directions keep me reading straight through, as did some hair-raising descriptions of demons, monsters, and humans who are capable of more evil than either.
So, strong recommendation for the book and series, at least so far. Maybe I’ll get to the end and be furious, and come back and edit this. But even if I want to throw my phone at the end, it will mean I was invested in the story and the characters, and that’s what we’re all looking for.
June 28, 2018
Jacqueline Talbot has had a rough go. Her father is a murderer and her mother passed away leaving her an orphan. She has been bounced between foster homes and then her Aunt Mitzy shows up to rescue her and take her back to the family home. She makes friends easily in Mercy Hills but has a secret. Jacqueline’s best friend, Mal is a ghost in her compact. This keeps her busy trying to find a way to free him. But there is more to Mercy Hills than what you see on the outside. The monsters are rising and it is up to Jacqueline and Mall to stop them.
I loved this story. You feel for Jacqueline, I mean her father is a murderer and the best thing for her is to get a fresh start. But, of course, fresh starts don’t always mean a good start. I loved the diversity of her friends and the town. Of course you want Mal to get out of the mirror and I loved how he got trapped there.
I didn’t want to put this book down. There is so much going on and I was kept on the edge of my seat hoping everything was going to work out. This is the first book in a series and a fantastic start. Now I can’t wait to get my grubby little hands and the second book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
I loved this story. You feel for Jacqueline, I mean her father is a murderer and the best thing for her is to get a fresh start. But, of course, fresh starts don’t always mean a good start. I loved the diversity of her friends and the town. Of course you want Mal to get out of the mirror and I loved how he got trapped there.
I didn’t want to put this book down. There is so much going on and I was kept on the edge of my seat hoping everything was going to work out. This is the first book in a series and a fantastic start. Now I can’t wait to get my grubby little hands and the second book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
February 7, 2017
Jacqueline is fifteen years old and has been living in foster homes. Her Aunt Mitzy shows up to claim her and Jackie gets a new start. She wants that as her father is in prison for killing 300 people. Her mother died when she was young. She makes friends with the "popular" kids at school but then becomes friends with misfit students. The popular kids say no way can you be friends with them. So who ends up being her friends? That is something Jackie must decide. She has one true friend -- a boy in her mother's compact mirror. His name is Mal and he is always there for her regardless if she had a good day or bad day. She loves Mal.
The book is a fast pace book with a lot of suspense. It is a great horror novel. At times the novel is quite intense. It has made me want to read the next book in this series. It's a good book for young adults and adults.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The book is a fast pace book with a lot of suspense. It is a great horror novel. At times the novel is quite intense. It has made me want to read the next book in this series. It's a good book for young adults and adults.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
June 29, 2018
Boy in the Mirror is...it's a strange and unique story. I enjoyed it, but it was definitely a wild ride, and definitely not quite what I was expecting. That's a good thing, though. I like when books are different.
It starts off kind of graphic, actually, with two little boys exploring somewhere they shouldn't be. I won't say what happens, but it was surprisingly shocking.
The next chapter seems relatively normal, and the story starts introducing our main character, Jacqueline. She's got no parents, and her foster family isn't exactly the best. But at least she has a roof over her head. That all changes, though, when her foster father shows up in her bedroom one night. That one event sets the rest of the story, and things slowly start to get crazier and crazier as the story progresses.
Jacqueline also has a special mirror she uses to talk to the boy who lives inside it. Strange? Yes. But Mal is her only friend at first, and so she continues to keep him hidden away so no one else can see him or talk to him.
The Boy in the Mirror is definitely a thrilling book. There's all sorts of supernatural insanity building, and only Mal seems to know how to stop it. Jacqueline has to learn to put her trust in not only him, but also the new friends and family she gains later on. It's up to her and the boy in the mirror to stop whatever's coming.
I have to say, plot-wise, the story grabs you right from the get-go and doesn't let up until the very end. And even then, you'll be left breathless and eager for more. The anticipation is enough to make even the most calm person a little on edge.
Character-wise, there are a few you'll love, and a few you'll hate. Jacqueline is a bit naive at times, but for a teenage girl, that's not surprising. She does have her moments, though, where her strength shines through.
I also really liked her aunt. She's an odd one, but I found myself liking her more and more as the story goes on. Same goes for Jacqueline's friends. They're a fun, nerdy bunch.
I'd definitely be keen on reading the rest of the series. The Boy in the Mirror was exciting, curious, and kind of scary too. I rather enjoyed it, and I'd recommend it to fans of young adult fantasy/horror.
Four stars from me!
It starts off kind of graphic, actually, with two little boys exploring somewhere they shouldn't be. I won't say what happens, but it was surprisingly shocking.
The next chapter seems relatively normal, and the story starts introducing our main character, Jacqueline. She's got no parents, and her foster family isn't exactly the best. But at least she has a roof over her head. That all changes, though, when her foster father shows up in her bedroom one night. That one event sets the rest of the story, and things slowly start to get crazier and crazier as the story progresses.
Jacqueline also has a special mirror she uses to talk to the boy who lives inside it. Strange? Yes. But Mal is her only friend at first, and so she continues to keep him hidden away so no one else can see him or talk to him.
The Boy in the Mirror is definitely a thrilling book. There's all sorts of supernatural insanity building, and only Mal seems to know how to stop it. Jacqueline has to learn to put her trust in not only him, but also the new friends and family she gains later on. It's up to her and the boy in the mirror to stop whatever's coming.
I have to say, plot-wise, the story grabs you right from the get-go and doesn't let up until the very end. And even then, you'll be left breathless and eager for more. The anticipation is enough to make even the most calm person a little on edge.
Character-wise, there are a few you'll love, and a few you'll hate. Jacqueline is a bit naive at times, but for a teenage girl, that's not surprising. She does have her moments, though, where her strength shines through.
I also really liked her aunt. She's an odd one, but I found myself liking her more and more as the story goes on. Same goes for Jacqueline's friends. They're a fun, nerdy bunch.
I'd definitely be keen on reading the rest of the series. The Boy in the Mirror was exciting, curious, and kind of scary too. I rather enjoyed it, and I'd recommend it to fans of young adult fantasy/horror.
Four stars from me!
March 14, 2021
Not what I expected, yet surprisingly good. The synopsis did not describe this book as sci-fi, had it done so, I probably would not have given it a second glance because rarely, if ever, will I purposely read sci-fi, let alone YA sci-fi. This book, however, was very well-written; descriptive and inviting. I felt the angst and visualized the scenes clearly.
Jacqueline was put through more than most high school freshman can ever imagine. Having lost both parents, she was moved from one dreadful foster home to another. Never thinking that the next one could be worse than the last. Until it was.
Saved by a long-lost aunt, she was now promised a life of stability and most importantly...love. What she doesn’t realize is that what’s been lurking in the shadows refuses to lose its grip on her. Has it finally met its match?
Jacqueline was put through more than most high school freshman can ever imagine. Having lost both parents, she was moved from one dreadful foster home to another. Never thinking that the next one could be worse than the last. Until it was.
Saved by a long-lost aunt, she was now promised a life of stability and most importantly...love. What she doesn’t realize is that what’s been lurking in the shadows refuses to lose its grip on her. Has it finally met its match?
May 31, 2019
I have only two regrets concerning this book...
#1. It ended (But I may actually buy the next book in the series to alleviate this issue.)
#2. I can only rate it five stars here on Goodreads.
As the book started and I discovered that the main character is a 15-year-old girl I worried that I was in for an afternoon special experience. I was pleasantly surprised to be proven wrong. This book teems with strong characters who I could actually like and identify with. And remember, I'm about to turn 69.
Regardless of your age, I predict you will enjoy this book too.
At the very end, there is a pretty interesting plot twist. I sort of sensed the twist coming earlier in the book, but it was still interesting when it arrived.
#1. It ended (But I may actually buy the next book in the series to alleviate this issue.)
#2. I can only rate it five stars here on Goodreads.
As the book started and I discovered that the main character is a 15-year-old girl I worried that I was in for an afternoon special experience. I was pleasantly surprised to be proven wrong. This book teems with strong characters who I could actually like and identify with. And remember, I'm about to turn 69.
Regardless of your age, I predict you will enjoy this book too.
At the very end, there is a pretty interesting plot twist. I sort of sensed the twist coming earlier in the book, but it was still interesting when it arrived.
July 16, 2018
This novel is written in such a unique way. There is a LOT to learn about the world Robert J. Duperre is taking us into and the characters. A significant part of this novel is backstory and getting the reader up to speed.
There is an immense level of detail the author puts into his setting and characters and I think that helps the reader imagine the characters and world vividly.
There are some grittier/darker aspects of the novel and the horror aspect is definitely present. I personally thought it added a great extra layer to the writing.
There is an immense level of detail the author puts into his setting and characters and I think that helps the reader imagine the characters and world vividly.
There are some grittier/darker aspects of the novel and the horror aspect is definitely present. I personally thought it added a great extra layer to the writing.
July 29, 2018
This was a mix of fantasy and horror that really made me think on a deeper level than most novels of its same genre.
There is a lot going on and a lot to understand since you are diving into a new world. I think that Robert J. Duperre really managed to keep his readers up to speed by giving them just enough along the way without making them feel lost or bogged down with information.
I loved the grittiness of the novel. Definitely a thrilling novel.
There is a lot going on and a lot to understand since you are diving into a new world. I think that Robert J. Duperre really managed to keep his readers up to speed by giving them just enough along the way without making them feel lost or bogged down with information.
I loved the grittiness of the novel. Definitely a thrilling novel.
August 2, 2018
This novel had a powerful main character and a powerful underlying perseverance. I liked the way the author set up the novel and the history he made sure to give the reader so that they came to understand the situation.
I felt like everything really flowed smoothly and led to an easy read. There are definitely some darker moments throughout, so not for the faint of heart. A wonderful YA Fantasy and Horror!
I felt like everything really flowed smoothly and led to an easy read. There are definitely some darker moments throughout, so not for the faint of heart. A wonderful YA Fantasy and Horror!
August 23, 2019
This book has heavy religious overtones with an interesting concept. The characters are a little unbelievable in their actions, preachy at times, but overall an interesting storyline that keeps you hooked until the last page. This book is part of a series and ends on a slight cliffhanger while still being a complete story.
December 23, 2019
Unique and a good read!
Nice beginning and can stand alone. Appreciate no cliff hanger! I enjoyed how different this book was from characters to the supernatural.
The heroine comes with baggage that is understandable considering what she has been through.
Looking forward to reading how this develops and the trials yet to come!
Nice beginning and can stand alone. Appreciate no cliff hanger! I enjoyed how different this book was from characters to the supernatural.
The heroine comes with baggage that is understandable considering what she has been through.
Looking forward to reading how this develops and the trials yet to come!
October 22, 2020
Passable
The book is passable. Looking at the title I thought it would be a horror book - my bad for not reading the description and reviews I suppose. There are a couple paranormal mentions but nothing thrilling.
The book starts off strong and is quite interesting to read. However towards the end it takes a religious approach/mentions and that threw me off 🤷🏻♀️
The book is passable. Looking at the title I thought it would be a horror book - my bad for not reading the description and reviews I suppose. There are a couple paranormal mentions but nothing thrilling.
The book starts off strong and is quite interesting to read. However towards the end it takes a religious approach/mentions and that threw me off 🤷🏻♀️
November 20, 2020
A strange book mixed between supernatural and teen self discovery. 15 yo Jacqueline had been in various foster care families since her parents died. She learns she has family still and must learn the “family” secret and find herself.
As strange as the story was at times I enjoyed it being different to every other novel out there.
As strange as the story was at times I enjoyed it being different to every other novel out there.
March 6, 2017
This was definitely a great read. The pacing overall was good, which at 355 pages is kind of a must when you have little time (like I do) to read. The second half of the book was a page turner. And the conclusion left me eager for the release of the second book.
First, I will admit that the synopsis of the book had me thinking that this story would ultimately be about Jacqueline Talbot and her quest to free Mal, the boy in the mirror. But to me, it felt more like a side story than the overall focus of the novel. The majority of the story is centered around Jacqueline trying to settle into her new life as she fights to overcome a pretty horrific past, while the boy in the mirror seems to be the only one trying to figure out how to free himself. She ultimately plays a role in the outcome, but to me it just felt secondary to the other happenings in the book where I expected it to be front and center. Don't get me wrong, the occult is definitely present in this book and you ultimately get the answers you’re looking for with that. With multiple POVs you get a firsthand look at the evil that Jacqueline is up against, or (*shudder*) a glimpse of it, but I just expected it to be more largely focused on this anomaly of the boy being trapped in the mirror.
Second, I will admit that these characters are your stereotypical teenage archetypes, i.e. the dumb (a*hole) jocks, the supermodel mean girl, and the misfit nerd clan Jacqueline ultimately teams up with. But when the story plays itself out, these characters no longer fill the role that you had expected them to at the start, and their interactions and places in the story pleasantly surprise and confuse you.
It was an enjoyable (and super creepy, in a good way) book that made me think and ultimately want to continue the story, which for me is the most important thing. If I’m bored, I put a book down. I move on. I definitely wasn’t bored.
Looking forward to the second installment.
First, I will admit that the synopsis of the book had me thinking that this story would ultimately be about Jacqueline Talbot and her quest to free Mal, the boy in the mirror. But to me, it felt more like a side story than the overall focus of the novel. The majority of the story is centered around Jacqueline trying to settle into her new life as she fights to overcome a pretty horrific past, while the boy in the mirror seems to be the only one trying to figure out how to free himself. She ultimately plays a role in the outcome, but to me it just felt secondary to the other happenings in the book where I expected it to be front and center. Don't get me wrong, the occult is definitely present in this book and you ultimately get the answers you’re looking for with that. With multiple POVs you get a firsthand look at the evil that Jacqueline is up against, or (*shudder*) a glimpse of it, but I just expected it to be more largely focused on this anomaly of the boy being trapped in the mirror.
Second, I will admit that these characters are your stereotypical teenage archetypes, i.e. the dumb (a*hole) jocks, the supermodel mean girl, and the misfit nerd clan Jacqueline ultimately teams up with. But when the story plays itself out, these characters no longer fill the role that you had expected them to at the start, and their interactions and places in the story pleasantly surprise and confuse you.
It was an enjoyable (and super creepy, in a good way) book that made me think and ultimately want to continue the story, which for me is the most important thing. If I’m bored, I put a book down. I move on. I definitely wasn’t bored.
Looking forward to the second installment.
October 18, 2018
Great read
A young girl, parents dead, tossed about in foster care. Her only friend at the time, the boy in the mirror. Taken in by her Aunt, she begins to have a life. A strange life.
A young girl, parents dead, tossed about in foster care. Her only friend at the time, the boy in the mirror. Taken in by her Aunt, she begins to have a life. A strange life.
May 23, 2019
I really liked this book.
I figured out who or whom Mal was right away.
Great characters, surprises, history and mystery.
I read an excerpt of the next book in this series and I am hooked.
I figured out who or whom Mal was right away.
Great characters, surprises, history and mystery.
I read an excerpt of the next book in this series and I am hooked.
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