From USA TODAY Bestselling Author, C. L. Stone, read Black and Green, the much-anticipated eleventh book in The Academy Ghost Bird Series.
Sang Sorenson’s father abandoned her and her sister, leaving them to fend for themselves for months. He’s returned, and finds Sang is missing. He demands she return. Right now.
Will he call the police if she doesn’t?
Her Academy team doesn’t want to risk losing her ghost status and she doesn’t want to put them in danger, so she reluctantly returns home, but is comforted that she will still be monitored by them.
But the second she opens the door, she discovers her father has made changes that will affect her entire future. His decisions will make them a normal family.
Normal is no longer what Sang wants. It would kill her Academy career before it ever started. Not to mention it would end the special, new, and still-fragile relationships with the guys.
Sang struggles with her family, her identity, and where she truly belongs. Now that the entire team knows about their romantic relationships with her, tensions are mounting, tearing the team apart from the inside.
Only, Dr. Green isn't going to lie down and roll over by playing by the rules. Not anymore. Not while Sang is at risk.
His heart can’t take leaving her in that house one more minute. He needs her. They all do.
Confession: I am a Ghost Bird addict. More specifically, I am addicted to nine flawlessly written boys who manage to be both sexy and sweet. Worldly and innocent. Totally dreamy and absolutely f*cking adorable.
Considering I binged the first ten books within three days and then had to wait an agonizing year for this one, I have to admit my expectations lowered. In our time apart, I almost forgot how much I love the Academy boys.
Almost. (But not really.)
Things I loved about Black and Green:
♡ Half the book is told from Dr. Green's perspective! Oh my goodness, can I get a hell fucking yes?? And a can all of the next books be told half in one of the boys' perspectives? Because let me just tell you, getting to see the angel that is Sang from one of the boys' perspectives for an extended period of time (and not just in the epilogue) made my heart flutter like MAD. MAJOR SWOON ALERT.
♡ THE BOYS. Obviously. Self-explanatory. They just needed a point dedicated to their awesomeness alone.
♡ THE UNEXPECTED. I've learned not to really go into these books with expectations to how things are going to play out, because C.L. Stone has a way of calmly writing scenarios I never would've thought of. (Like zombie nail polish cupcake nights and Academy touch football games where Silas is the "worst" at something. Both totally adorable and not something I ever would've thought up on my own.) BUT let me just say that the whole scenario with Carol and Jimmy and later ? Did NOT see any of that coming.
♡ I kind of adored Jimmy. Don't hate. It wasn't his fault his mother was a b%#&$ and he was moved into Sang's bedroom without warning. He was a cutie pie. And who could blame him for possibly crushing on his new stepsister? Sang is adorable. Even I have a crush on her.
♡ I LOVED getting a glimpse of Mama Green, even though she was far from perfect, because of the window it opened into the silly Sean's past. I can't wait to get to know more about the other boys' home lives in detail!
♡ Many, many swoon-worthy make-out scenes. THANK YOU, JESUS, AND BE STILL MY CRAZY HEART.
♡ Victor and North. I want to say I don't have favourites, but... *whisper* I kind of do! Don't hate me! THEY ARE JUST SO CUTE I WANT TO HUG THEM ALL THE TIME AND PINCH THEIR CHEEKS AND TAKE THEM HOME WITH ME. Plus, North as an angry, sleepless monster? So freaking adorable.
(There are nine hot boys! You can't blame me for obsessing more over a few than others!)
♡ Am I selfish for loving how much the boys fight over Sang sometimes? I mean, I guess that's kind of the appeal of a reverse harem story, but the admittedly heartwarming possessiveness of Sang is in full effect in this book in particular. And the fan girl in me was consistently in cardiac arrest. OH MY LORD I LOVED IT ALL.
IN CONCLUSION:
Yes, the wait for this book almost killed me. And yes, the wait for the next one is going to be the reason for my demise. Especially after that teaser.
BUT it is wholly, absolutely, and completely WORTH IT. Sang and her boys will forever be favourites of mine, even when I'm old and grey and feel slightly like a pedo for crushing after teenage cuties.
(P.S. I keep forgetting Owen and Sean are my age. They seem so much older than twenty or is that just me?!? Maybe I'm just surrounded by significantly more immature twenty-year-olds...)
The only things I ask for in the next book? 1) More Mr. Blackbourne please, 2) Can it come out sooner? Like now, for instance? and 3)
Well, I guess it's time to go back and re-read the entire series for the twelve millionth time.
Edit Now I just hope this book comes out after my exams because I do not want to fail my exams because I will be reading this book. ------ I cannot wait for this book! Can this book be released sooner? Mr. Blackbourne needs to have his moment with Sang!!! I needed this book like yesterday.
This book showed that CL Stone has graduated to the next level of writing. No wonder she took that extra time!
With the events of the past book, the boys are thrown in chaos, there is not much synergy. Sang also doesn't have the chance to smooth over things bcos her dad's new girlfriend throws in a wrench and the boys have hardly any access to her; things happen so fast the boys have hardly a breath to regroup.
Owen and Sean have to step in, only Owen is frustrated and his cautious approach may not be good for Sang. Her heakth is suffering with all the stress and she is fainting all over the place. Its Sean who has to hold the group together and come to Sang's rescue.
I appreciate that CL didn't make Mr.B or Dr.G seem supermen but made them human yet admirable. With so many charcters its hard to stay true to each one, but she pulls it off - and the group dynamics - as always. Its also great that she keeps the characters gray - which is always more hard work for an author than simply painting someone as good and bad. I liked how while CL showed Carol to be controlling snd manipulative, she also showed basic human decency when opposed to Sang's abusive/neglectful parents. I loved the contrast of how Carol broke and threw away a chipped plate while Sean's mom painted the broken edges with gold and remade the broken glass - to remember and show the beauty of tragedy. It was masterfully done!
It was awesome that Owen came through and Sang is now finally free. Great climax! However I hope for less Sang-in-distress in the next book. Would prefer something more laidback and revolving less around Sang's family/health problems going forward.
5 stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I would like to still be in college when this series is over. That means mid 2019. Seriously, I was 15 when the first book came out, was expecting them to age up with me. That obviously hasn't happened. Please finish the book soon.
Why am I such trash for these books? ~ I should've reread First Kiss, because I forgot about a lot that happened at camp, like the council, and the shower ish explosion, and everyone was so angry and Kota found out about the plan. ~ Dr. Green kinda peeved me throughout this because I really wished it was Owen's book, and Sean was so hot-headed and so prominent where the other boys weren't even in their own books. ~ I haven't hated a character right off the bat as much as I hated Carol and even Jimmy a little bit just because we really didn't need this right now it just caused me so much stress. ~ Which reminds me, how freaking Carol tried pawning Marie off on Sean, I was livid that was just horrible blech. ~ Silas wins best kiss of the book and also most likely to actually hook up with Sang, because HAWT DANG boi that was too good. ~ This is getting all caps because my emotions about the ending are still everywhere: HOLY CRAP I DIED WHEN THE STEPMOTHER SHOWED UP, DIDN'T SEE THAT COMING AT ALL AND SHE DESTROYED CAROL WHICH YAY AND LILY AND LIAM WERE THERE AND WHO KNEW WHAT WAS GOING ON AND SANG JUST LEFT AND I GUESS WE'RE DONE WITH ALL THAT NOW BUT IT WAS JUST TOO CRAZY MY HEART AND BRAIN COULDN'T TAKE IT. And it didn't help at all that Sean and Owen were so sketch right before it happened saying they weren't going to ask I was so on edge. ~ I don't know if I really like the notebook of feelings, but it will be interesting to see what everyone says? ~ I'm so angry this ended way too fast but luckily a lot of bad crap is done with and we can move on in our relationships.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I don't really know how I feel about this book. First of all, I have to say that this series is one of my favorite ones, so it pains me a lot saying what I am going to say.
I know that CL Stone has been struggling to write this book as I've read in some webs, but I'm sorry to say that this book didn't have that special feeling. It was shorter and had a feeling of darkness surrounding it.
I feel like there's a lack of growth in the relationship between Sang and the guys. Moreover, sometimes I felt like the characters weren't themselves like I was reading a fanfic with some out-of-character moments.
I'm not going to say anything but there's a plot twist I didn't see coming, and even if at first I didn't like it, I can understand the decision of the author. I'm still not convinced, though.
Furthermore, there were some things that weren't resolved (not too big, but they still bug me **SPOILER*** Sang messages Owen and he doesn't respond. She never confronts him about it and he doesn't say anything, even he was asked a question ***SPOILER***)
I'm really disappointed because basically nothing happened until the last chapter, when suddenly Sang and Kota talk about the shower thing. AT THE END OF THE BOOK. AT. THE. END. In what? Two kindle pages and it was already resolved. Oh, and neither of the guys tried to solve the shower situation.
And to finish, I don't know if anyone has noticed, but Victor calls her Sweetie instead of Princess in some chapters. I don't really remember if he does this in the other books so I can't complain about it. Just putting it out there.
I really can't wait for this book! I am addicted to this series and I daydream about this world all the time! Haha;) I live in The Netherlands and it's very difficult for me to buy the books but it's worth the trouble! I enjoy reading and living in Sangs world a lot and want to keep living in it. And omgggg Black and Green! Does this mean that she will finally have her moment with, my favorite, Owen!? :))) yesss please
I'm starting to feel like this author is taking the piss. I've waited months for this book, and having just finished it, I'm left wondering what the hell I was so excited about...
I'm going to be brutally honest (obviously) - I really, really disliked this book. If it weren't for the last few chapters, I'd even go so far as to say I hated it. It was pointless. It was repetitive. It was boring, and after I hit the halfway mark, I started to skim heavily just to make it to the end.
I'm sad this story was such a letdown because I am a big fan of this series. But I'm starting to feel like my guilty little pleasure is losing me. If the author doesn't start ramping up the action, and upgrade the chaste kisses, and I'm going to give up.
Thumbs DOWN
Sang continues to annoy the hell out of me. How am I supposed to believe she could EVER be with NINE guys, when she still blushes when they kiss? I also feel like she should have come along further than she has in terms of her confidence. She is still the meek, pathetic, spineless girl she was at the beginning of the series, and it isn't cute. I mean for godsakes, the girl can barely clothe herself without help.
This story was called Black and Green, so I'm sure I'm not the only one to assume this was Dr. Green and Mr. Blackbourne's story. Well, yeah, this was the Doc's turn, but Owen barely featured. I am also really struggling with the depth of Sean's feelings toward Sang, when they've spent so little time together (especially compared to the younger guys). His declarations of love just weirded me out.
I feel like the author is really trying her hardest to drag this series out. Nothing of significance happened in this story, until the final stages of the book. Sure, there was an upheaval at home for Sang, but for me that was a joke. All it did was showcase how juvenile the 'Academies' strategies are, and I felt no anxiety whatsoever over Sang's predicament, so that drama was wasted on me. It just felt like a giant step backwards in the series - until the final few chapters (thank god something came out of it).
All the guys are Drama King's. When it comes to Sang, they freak out over every. damn. thing. It's actually really emasculating. I'm also sick to death of them always being tired. They need to focus more on themselves and maybe they'd all stop walking around like cranky zombie's.
I've said it before and I'll say it again, I really dislike the stupid nicknames they've all got going on. I mean, 'Pookie'? Really? Not cute.
The writing is so basic. I mean, I don't think I've ever noticed that before. I suppose when there's nothing else going on it leaves me with other things to focus on.
Final Thoughts
I know the above rant makes me sound like a hater, but I think the author is entirely to blame. I hate that she's wasting all of our time with these pointless stories, when she could be writing a decent story that gets the plot moving along quicker and is far more entertaining.
This was by far my least favourite of the series (except for the final few chapters). Maybe one day we'll get to the end of this series (preferably before I'm dead), but at this rate, I won't hold my breath.
Apr 18, 2017: Okay... So its spring and still no book. Her website hasn't been updated either and its making me a bit anxious. I mean, wasn't this supposed to be released september 2016? O_O;;; Halpp... i'm getting stephenie-meyer-midnight-sun vibes!!! I hope it comes out soon... *stops procrastinating and goes back to finish last exam paper*
Feb 15, 2017: Alright, spring 2017...no biggie - just taking a bit longer than expected. Its okay. ITS FINE. (I'm totally fine). I'll just be here, you know, waiting... *goes to sip tea but realizes the cup is empty* I also need to make more tea.
Jan 4, 2017: Sooo... I thought this book was supposed to come out 3 months ago??
WE FINALLY HAVE A DATE. WHOOP WHOOP!!! PREORDERING RIGHT FREAKING NOW.
*************************************
COME OOOOON!! WHY DOES THE DATE KEEP CHANGING!! I read Hoax just to appease myself a bit but it didnt work! I am so ready for this book to come out. sigh... Still love you C. L...lol
sitting here...mentally nail biting... I am Sooooo addicted to this series. I count the days until it comes out
Just when things are looking up for Sang, she returns home from the Academy camping trip to find her father back home and he brought his new fiance and her son. The fiance, Carol, is just as controlling as her stepmother, minus the abuse. Sang and the boys have to figure out how to get Sang out from under Carol's thumb. Having a controlling mother himself, Dr. Green is the most anxious to get Sang out of the house before Carol can do harm to her personality.
There are a few plotlines in this series - I was really hoping that we would be making some progress on the one that has to do with the school and the principal, but this book barely mentions it. Instead, it is all about the new problem of Carol and once again freeing Sang from a bad home life. It was still a good book, but I am getting anxious to solve the problem that was presented back in book 2 instead of dealing with new problems that pop up for Sang.
Im so fuc**ing anxious for this that i have read 3x all ten books, i have sent a message to the author, i have bought her new book, even thought just after the purchase i discovered that it was a pre sale, Im just restless till i can get this one, so help me god/C.L. Stone and hear my prayers "release the new book, pleaseeeeeee" hahaha
When?????? So it's October and we don't have a cover. I love the other books. I just want the next one. Of course that leads the the eternal problem that when I finally get it then two hours later I am in need of the next. And the cycle starts over. And word on a more specific release date?
I know everyone waited a millenia for this book (I was waiting with you!!!). But I know I'm the odd one out when I say I was liiiiiittle disappointed...
I'm not all that sure what we learned in this book? It felt like a transitional book, a sophomore album, a link between first and last. And waiting a year for it... it didn't fill my Academy craving. Something happened... but nothing happened plot-wise. I felt like we went in a circle.
The ending was the strongest part of the entire book for me, and I thought the build-up was perfect. I did have one major issue:
The entire book felt like a rehash of past events. Like she used the first few books as a blueprint and condensed the experience.. I was a little disappointed we were going down this road again.
Buuut, the writing was stronger, cleaner, and that was definitely a pleasant surprise. At the same time, it felt like all those things that made this series so endearing to me were missing. The chapters felt oh so short and weren't as immersive for me. I feel like I didn't get to spend very much time with the guys because of it.
Especially with Sean. This was his book but I didn't feel any closer to him than in previous books, I didn't really learn anything new
The interactions with the boys felt more like a checklist to give them equal time. There was a kiss here, a kiss there, and I just kept thinking her lips were going to be numb by the end of the book. They just weren't as emotionally satisfying for me. At all. It's rh, I need more of an emotional bridge, kisses don't get a check for emotional engagement. (Except the Luke interactions... For some reason I felt like his character suddenly felt "real" in this book. Moreso than in his book. He wasn't so spacey. He was thoughtful, critical, and aware of himself and the others.)
I know they're all "equals..." I know the guys are teens, but sometimes I feel like they're treating her more like a little sister or a best friend they just happen to make out with. I know I'm probably the only one who feels this way, but she's the girl you like, she's the girl you LOVE, she's the center of this group. Grounding her, giving her punishments, taking away privileges... she's not your kid!!! That has and will always bother me. I'm bringing this up because the "trust" issue kept coming up. But they hardly tell her anything and then scold her like a child.
After reading the preview for the next book I understand CL is going to continue in this direction writing-wise, it makes sense because the boys are all aware of the plan and tensions are high. Sang can't see what each of them are struggling with in one book. At the same time, it definitely changes the tone of the books and I'm hoping we'll start to move a bit faster plot-wise without condensing the length again.
I honestly just want to get to Mr. Blackbourne's book... Please. ;_;
I feel like a B***h for writing this. But honesty is always best.
I LOVE the Ghost Bird series. LOVE it! I reread the books all the time and keep up with the teasers and author notes in the newsletters and forum.
However, I am going to be honest here. This book was unnecessary and rushed. Nothing happened! Okay, okay. Something happens that was necessary to advance the overall storyline of the series. However, everything leading this book was never answered, the "necessary advancement" was chaotic and was never even hinted at previously, it just seemed like the author needed this one location/character issue cleared up and went about it in a completely bizarre manner. It wasn't even explained AFTER it was resolved!! No relationships were strengthened or created. Everything was just focusing on the bizarre new issue and nothing was really resolved. This was the author's rash attempt to advance the story and, unfortunately, it left me feeling 'bleh'. It didn't interest me. And that scares me because I love this series.
Black and Green, finally! It seems like the wait was forever. That's how much I love Sang and the Team. We pick up immediately where the last book ended; Sang and the boys are making a hurried trip home after learning that her father has returned and is searching for her. No one is happy. The boys were in the middle of a fight about the plan, and everyone is now tense about Sang going back into her house. Once Sang arrives home the surprises keep coming. The situation is worse than she imagined and all she wants is to be back out of the house and with her guys. The guys are working on it and trying not to let her feel alone, but the stress is hanging heavy.
This book is told is dual POV from Sang's perspective and from Dr. Green's. This is a nice change. I do love getting in the guy's mind. It's a well written, if slow paced book. It all takes place in a couple of days. There is so much angst on this book; virtually no fun. The guys are fighting; fighting about how to help Sang, feeling conflicted about the future and the plan. Sang is weak, physically and mentally. I understand. The girl has PTSD, but being bombarded with her fears, uncertainty, and general unhappiness is tough. I keep hoping for her to step outside of herself for more than a minute and start the path to 'woman'ing up. She's emotionally immature. Yet she's still likable; she's sweet and has the ability to bounce back to a good mood fairly quickly.
As much as I love this series, it's time for the plot to move forward. There was no resolution to any of the problems. We got a band-aid fix (which was amusing and I would have liked more of) for the main issue in this book. Still nothing long-term. Please let's not do this again in the next book! There was no Volto, no McCoy. Worse, much worse, we had very little guy time. I was disappointed. The only character development was with new characters and Dr Green. And to be honest, Dr Green's character turned out to be much more immature than I had imagined. I decided it made sense; he has been focused on the Academy and becoming a doctor. Still I assume that he has had interaction with girls. His goofiness over Sang seems in conflict with how he's been portrayed before. I would also feel more comfortable if Sang wasn't 16. I don't have a problem with the age difference, however Dr Green and Mr Blackbourne have adult lives with employment and reputations that can be damaged.
I know it sounds like this is a negative review. It's not meant to be. I did enjoy the book. I love Kintsugi. What a fantastic message. I also love, love, love the notebook. Letters, questions, thoughts, and answers. Can't wait for more. I was so happy to have anything new with these characters. I only wish the focus had split more with Sang and the guys, rather than focus on Sang. I do understand that this book may be the needed set-up for the remaining books. I'm also willing to have a time jump if it advances the characters to a point close where all relationships can be pursued. I want to work on the plan. I want LOTS of one on one time with each guy. Several were basically overlooked in this book. It's a large group, but since each guy is special, they all deserve time. I also want group time. I want for the guys to remember the love they have for each other and not to fight over a girl. Or if they are going to fight, get it all out. Be open and honest, resolve the issue. Have fun! No relationship is worth having, if you aren't enjoying yourself. The sneak peak after the book's conclusion gives me hope that the next book will focus on the entire team and the plan. So begins the wait for Loves Cruel Redemption.
So I know no one really has heard of these books but read. Them. THEY'RE ADDICTING. LIKE OVER THE TOP. it's so fun bc you're so angry at the characters all the time but you love them. And crazy shit you don't expect just comes and hits you in the face. We've waited so long for this and now we have to wait again for the next. 😭😭 Also I guess this was somewhat of a buddy read with Katie baby, bc I read on her kindle and we wrote notes to each other (hers were considerably more tame than mine *whoops*).
Spoils will be below for this book but like honestly read the first, it will take you like 2 seconds. • • • • • • • SPOILERS.
Shit shit shit. I was so scared at the beginning of this book bc I was just sitting here like "why do I like these." But then CL being CL proved to me again that I am trash for these boys and Sang and this story. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I'm a North and Silas supporter and have been since the beginning but they're all so perfect (except sometimes Nathan *peek the sneak peek for the next book, I'm so angry at that boy*) IF I HAVE ONE FUCKING THING TO SAY THO??? DO I HAVE PERMISSION? OWEN. NEEDS. HIS. OWN. BOOK. or something I'm dying here and CL is gladly watching me suffer.
But the drama did not disappoint, shiz it was good. Like when the boys brought her mom home in the end to go off on carol, I felt like I was watching Jurassic World when they let the Rex out on the hybrid. And carol is such a bitch, and so is Marie, and her dad. Ugh wow.
Also may or may not have cried like 7 times just from the boys doing things, or them calling her by their nick names. It's okay. This book literally took place over like 3 days and I'm so conflicted but in love.
This review is shit, but I have come to believe that is my only way of writing them, thank you. *bows*
Finally!! I have been waiting so very IMpatiently for one of these book to be all about either Dr. Green or Mr. Blackmore. I can so happily say that this one features Dr. Green. I am a happy camper indeed, and these books, again, just keep getting better and better.
What makes them so good are the characters, how well-drawn and thoroughly depicted they are. I could imagine meeting these guys in person, so are so real to me. I love them all. All, I tell you!! But I was so thoroughly excited that this one featured Dr. Green, because he's one of my favorites. And it did not disappoint, even amidst the turmoil and angst that is a direct result of Sang's father returning and turning her life and the status quo completely upset down.
I know some reviewers were disappointed that when Sang had to return home, she regressed a bit back to her previous personality prior to meeting the boys, but this actually didn't bother me in the slightest because it made sense. You can't go through the sort of traumas that this girl has gone through and then be magically cured, despite the passage of time that has taken place. Yes, she was removed from that home, hasn't lived there and been reminded of it, hasn't had to "return to the scene of the crimes" so to speak. Anyone whose been through what she has can indeed find themselves repeating old behaviors once placed back into the environment where it occurred. I felt it was a natural progression that was pretty realistic. The whole question is whether she can fight through it and emerge once again to her new self.
I loved all of the Dr. Green interaction, as well as her interactions with the boys. This is one of my favorite of the series so far, and I am eagerly anticipating the next one, again!! Can't wait.
Ok I know we are all #whychoose but Sean is my favorite. So I was really looking forward to this book and his POV. I loved learning more about Sean and his family. I didn't like the things that happened with Sang but I see why they were needed. While I did enjoy the book and I felt it was needed to get to where we are now, I'm ready to get back on assignment at Ashley Waters and back to dealing with Volto.
ugh. This series reminds me of the tv show LOST. First I was like "ooooh, this is interesting " then as time went on I was like "OK, this needs to progress, it's dragging " and finally when the end came I was left feeling empty and disappointed.
There where elements of this book that I enjoyed, like the duel POV and of course I adore Dr.Green. Sang finally started to open up about her feelings more which was a looong time coming, plus tons more kissing which was awesome sauce. However, there was little to no page time with the other guys, brief appearances a stolen kiss here and there and that was it. 34% of the book seemed to be sang in the attic crawl space and another chunk was at Nathan's killing time and staring at Carol cleaning. The last 80% was action and finally started getting good only for the book to end. This book felt like a long novella or a filler till the next book. Other than a few interesting moments it was a snorefest for me.
Seriously, 11 books and they are barely a year older, and they are STILL dealing with McCoy and Volto! That should have been wrapped up back in book 4 or 5 at the very least. Look, I'm invested, I gotten this far and will continue on till the end just like I did with LOST, but I really hope I'm not left feeling the same with this series as I did with the tv show, nothing but empty and disappointed.
I wanted something easy to read cause it's a stressful week... Well this fit the bill TOO well.
I skipped a few books from where I left off, I thought maybe some progress might have been made story-wise, but it's pretty minimal. It's like watching Young and the Restless, you could stop watching it for months and easily pick up where you left off.
Sang, unfortunately, is still a passive damsel in distress.
Still PG which I don't mind but it's kinda creepy that it's PG and a reverse harem story. In the earlier books I thought she would eventually pick one, but no, it's a reverse harem, but with only kissing and a hicky.
Boring.
Don't care.
Oh and the audio version of this book, just does NOT work. I mean how can you expect one reader to do the voices for (how many teenage boys?) and make them sound different? meh.