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Witch Eyes #1
Witch Eyes
To use his magic is to risk his life.
Braden suffers from a powerful magical curse. The witch eyes allow him to see the memories of the world, to see forgotten emotions, buried memories, and to pierce through lies and deception. They make his magic unparalleled, but every use brings him closer to death.
But when a powerful vision of doom threatens his only family, Braden heads for the source of the vision, the town of Belle Dam where feuding families of witches have ruled for decades. Upon his arrival, he meets the enigmatic Trey, a gorgeous boy with motives of his own.
And by then it’s too late.
A dangerous secret puts the boys on opposite sides of the feud, and as more people realize the power that Braden is capable of, he becomes a pawn in a deadly game. To change the future and save his family, Braden must uncover the secrets of Belle Dam. He is not the first to be born with the witch eyes, but if he can’t unravel the truth of Belle Dam’s founding, he may be the last…
Fans of the Mortal Instruments series will love this first book in the Witch Eyes series, a paranormal romance trilogy featuring an electrifying gay romance, dark forces intent on tearing them apart, and the mystery buried deep in the very bedrock of Belle Dam.
Braden suffers from a powerful magical curse. The witch eyes allow him to see the memories of the world, to see forgotten emotions, buried memories, and to pierce through lies and deception. They make his magic unparalleled, but every use brings him closer to death.
But when a powerful vision of doom threatens his only family, Braden heads for the source of the vision, the town of Belle Dam where feuding families of witches have ruled for decades. Upon his arrival, he meets the enigmatic Trey, a gorgeous boy with motives of his own.
And by then it’s too late.
A dangerous secret puts the boys on opposite sides of the feud, and as more people realize the power that Braden is capable of, he becomes a pawn in a deadly game. To change the future and save his family, Braden must uncover the secrets of Belle Dam. He is not the first to be born with the witch eyes, but if he can’t unravel the truth of Belle Dam’s founding, he may be the last…
Fans of the Mortal Instruments series will love this first book in the Witch Eyes series, a paranormal romance trilogy featuring an electrifying gay romance, dark forces intent on tearing them apart, and the mystery buried deep in the very bedrock of Belle Dam.
316 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2011
86 people are currently reading
8179 people want to read
About the author
Scott Tracey
19 books462 followersScott wrote his autobiography at age six, and its all been downhill since then. He traveled the country on a Greyhound for a month, devoted a semester of school to starting a series of urban legends, and spent five years perfecting how to say "would you like fries with that" for a short story. Or so he claims.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please go here to my website. I cannot guarantee a response to any mail sent through Goodreads.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please go here to my website. I cannot guarantee a response to any mail sent through Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
September 30, 2011
I think Witch Eyes was amongst my most anticipated books of 2011, so this 2-star rating right here? It makes me want to cry. I really, really wanted to like this book, but I just... couldn't.
Witch Eyes should have been a good book - I mean, it had everything necessary to make it a stand-out read: witches, feuds, gay romance, magical powers. And yet they all fell flat, and there's nothing I can attribute it to but the writing. The best word I can use to describe the writing in this book was 'meh'.
Firstly, the narrative style was annoying as all hell. I know I've snarked on infodumping before, but there's really a fairly thick line between infodumping and withholding all information. I spent most of the book wondering what the hell was even happening, because the narrative was so disjointed and unreliable. I never, right up until this moment when I'm writing this review, got a clear idea of the world in which Tracey based his book. Did the people of Belle Dam actually know and believe in the supernatural? How many of the people Braden interacted with actually believed in magic? What is the kind of magic people practiced? Because even the noobies know that systems of magic are not uniform the world over. What do Braden's witch eyes really do ? What is Drew? Why does he even come into the picture? What purpose does he serve? And so on and so forth...
None of the characters in this story are properly fleshed out. Braden is confusing and confused; he spends most of the book wandering around aimless and cluess, literally falling into one subplot after another through no agency of his own, and ending up at a Big Reveal that had no basis in the storyline that preceded it.
The bad is guy is weirdly flat and appears for roughly five percent of the entire book, giving me uncomfortable flashbacks to Lilith from City of Fallen Angels - last minute villain to act as a showstopper and plug all the leaky holes in the story.
There are a bunch of people who appear and disappear from the story without ever acquiring a life or personality of their own - Drew, Riley, Gregory and even Jade turn out to be cardboard cutouts. In fact the two most interesting characters in the book were Braden's father uncle, both of whom had an actual mystery surrounding them, and possibly a certain amount of depth and humanity. Tragically, they play cameo roles, at best.
And now on to my biggest disappointment. Trey. Oh Trey, I had such hopes for you. The romance in this book, to put it quite simply, blows. (No pun intended, you pervs!) Seriously, even if the action/adventure part fell flat, I was hoping to get a lot out of the romance. But it was not to be. It was standard YA romance, only gay. Boy meets boy, falls almost immediately for boy, boy turns out to be charming alpha male who likes to kiss Boy at the most random moments and coddle and protect him, and Boy finds out that under boy's confident demeanour lies conflicted, tortured emo twin, Boy also has deep dark secret that will separate them forever, starcrossed love, blah blah blah. No. Just... no. Not to blow my own trumpet or anything, but I think I write sexier, more convincing gay romances than Scott Tracey. Ask Cory and Flannery, I think they've read some.
Braden's confusion and conflict over his sexuality felt very real but was unfortunately offset by his strangely lecturing tone when talking about being gay and dealing with people who are uncomfortable with his sexuality. In fact, Braden was the most uncomfortable gay character I've ever read, and I'm including all the ones who are still in the closet, mind. It's like he didn't fit in his own skin, like the author was trying so hard to fit him into a not-stereotype of gay, that he ended up losing his groove altogether! (Eighties phrases ftw) And there was next to no chemistry between Trey and Braden, no sexiness, no real depth of attraction, nothing that made me want to go moony-eyes and swoony.
All in all this was pretty much a letdown. I wouldn't not recommend it to people, but this would not be the first, second or even tenth book I would recommend if people asked me about (i) YA paranormals or (ii) queer fiction.
Witch Eyes should have been a good book - I mean, it had everything necessary to make it a stand-out read: witches, feuds, gay romance, magical powers. And yet they all fell flat, and there's nothing I can attribute it to but the writing. The best word I can use to describe the writing in this book was 'meh'.
Firstly, the narrative style was annoying as all hell. I know I've snarked on infodumping before, but there's really a fairly thick line between infodumping and withholding all information. I spent most of the book wondering what the hell was even happening, because the narrative was so disjointed and unreliable. I never, right up until this moment when I'm writing this review, got a clear idea of the world in which Tracey based his book. Did the people of Belle Dam actually know and believe in the supernatural? How many of the people Braden interacted with actually believed in magic? What is the kind of magic people practiced? Because even the noobies know that systems of magic are not uniform the world over. What do Braden's witch eyes really do ? What is Drew? Why does he even come into the picture? What purpose does he serve? And so on and so forth...
None of the characters in this story are properly fleshed out. Braden is confusing and confused; he spends most of the book wandering around aimless and cluess, literally falling into one subplot after another through no agency of his own, and ending up at a Big Reveal that had no basis in the storyline that preceded it.
The bad is guy is weirdly flat and appears for roughly five percent of the entire book, giving me uncomfortable flashbacks to Lilith from City of Fallen Angels - last minute villain to act as a showstopper and plug all the leaky holes in the story.
There are a bunch of people who appear and disappear from the story without ever acquiring a life or personality of their own - Drew, Riley, Gregory and even Jade turn out to be cardboard cutouts. In fact the two most interesting characters in the book were Braden's father uncle, both of whom had an actual mystery surrounding them, and possibly a certain amount of depth and humanity. Tragically, they play cameo roles, at best.
And now on to my biggest disappointment. Trey. Oh Trey, I had such hopes for you. The romance in this book, to put it quite simply, blows. (No pun intended, you pervs!) Seriously, even if the action/adventure part fell flat, I was hoping to get a lot out of the romance. But it was not to be. It was standard YA romance, only gay. Boy meets boy, falls almost immediately for boy, boy turns out to be charming alpha male who likes to kiss Boy at the most random moments and coddle and protect him, and Boy finds out that under boy's confident demeanour lies conflicted, tortured emo twin, Boy also has deep dark secret that will separate them forever, starcrossed love, blah blah blah. No. Just... no. Not to blow my own trumpet or anything, but I think I write sexier, more convincing gay romances than Scott Tracey. Ask Cory and Flannery, I think they've read some.
Braden's confusion and conflict over his sexuality felt very real but was unfortunately offset by his strangely lecturing tone when talking about being gay and dealing with people who are uncomfortable with his sexuality. In fact, Braden was the most uncomfortable gay character I've ever read, and I'm including all the ones who are still in the closet, mind. It's like he didn't fit in his own skin, like the author was trying so hard to fit him into a not-stereotype of gay, that he ended up losing his groove altogether! (Eighties phrases ftw) And there was next to no chemistry between Trey and Braden, no sexiness, no real depth of attraction, nothing that made me want to go moony-eyes and swoony.
All in all this was pretty much a letdown. I wouldn't not recommend it to people, but this would not be the first, second or even tenth book I would recommend if people asked me about (i) YA paranormals or (ii) queer fiction.
November 28, 2011
Okay, why aren't there more YA books out there this good? Oh, I know why. Because they're too damn busy trying to be the next Twilight.
Let me get this out of the way: the hero of this awesome novel is gay. Yes, boys and girls, Braden is gay and he's got magickal powers and he's not bemoaning his state as a gay young man because he's too damn busy trying not to end up as a pawn in a dangerous and age-old game between two warring factions. If gay characters behaving in a powerful and heroic fashion offend you, go read something lame and safe like the aforementioned Twilight.
Of course a book this amazing and engrossing isn't going to come from the cookie-cutter, play it safe, Caucasian-hetero-centric New York publishing world, which is good news for the smaller and independent publishers who are willing to give savvy readers what we really want, which is more diversity of characters. In this case it's Flux,the YA imprint of the famous New Age publishing company Llewelyn.
As expected from a book that features magick and which is published by a company such as Llewellyn, it's obvious author Scott Tracy understands what magick is and what it isn't, what it does and what it can't.
There's just something refreshing about Braden that has nothing to do with the fact that he prefers bollocks to breasts, LOL. He's real, in spite of the powerful magic he possesses (and sometimes which possesses him). He's confused by his witch eyes, the power to see through spells and illusions; by the tantalizing and dangerous secrets about his family, about fitting in. He makes mistakes. No Gary Stus here, thank you very much. I love the fact that anytime he uses his powers, there's a price.
Like another reviewer, I'm on Team Anyone-But-Trey. In fact, Team Drew is looking pretty good to me right now.
Another thing I liked about this book is how well the female characters fared. There are way too many instances of misogynistic FAIL (most sadly being committed by female authors whom one would think would know better). Trey's sister Jade and the intrepid school newspaper go-to chick Riley are well-thought out and come off less like typical high school tropes and more like real people.
Let me get this out of the way: the hero of this awesome novel is gay. Yes, boys and girls, Braden is gay and he's got magickal powers and he's not bemoaning his state as a gay young man because he's too damn busy trying not to end up as a pawn in a dangerous and age-old game between two warring factions. If gay characters behaving in a powerful and heroic fashion offend you, go read something lame and safe like the aforementioned Twilight.
Of course a book this amazing and engrossing isn't going to come from the cookie-cutter, play it safe, Caucasian-hetero-centric New York publishing world, which is good news for the smaller and independent publishers who are willing to give savvy readers what we really want, which is more diversity of characters. In this case it's Flux,the YA imprint of the famous New Age publishing company Llewelyn.
As expected from a book that features magick and which is published by a company such as Llewellyn, it's obvious author Scott Tracy understands what magick is and what it isn't, what it does and what it can't.
There's just something refreshing about Braden that has nothing to do with the fact that he prefers bollocks to breasts, LOL. He's real, in spite of the powerful magic he possesses (and sometimes which possesses him). He's confused by his witch eyes, the power to see through spells and illusions; by the tantalizing and dangerous secrets about his family, about fitting in. He makes mistakes. No Gary Stus here, thank you very much. I love the fact that anytime he uses his powers, there's a price.
Like another reviewer, I'm on Team Anyone-But-Trey. In fact, Team Drew is looking pretty good to me right now.
Another thing I liked about this book is how well the female characters fared. There are way too many instances of misogynistic FAIL (most sadly being committed by female authors whom one would think would know better). Trey's sister Jade and the intrepid school newspaper go-to chick Riley are well-thought out and come off less like typical high school tropes and more like real people.
September 13, 2011
Scott Tracey’s Witch Eyes is a book I really wanted to like. I was interested in reading because not only is the main protagonist a male, but is gay. There are not many paranormal YA’s with a gay protagonist that I can think of. And the most positive thing I can say about Witch Eyes is Braden, the hero, is a very appealing fellow. I really liked him and how he tries to overcome his handicap and tribulations thrown at him.
Unfortunately the writing wasn’t strong enough since the buildup and getting from point A to point B took way too long. Also the world building was an issue where everything is revealed in such a way where again, I grew tried waiting for something explosive to happen.
Braden lives with his Uncle John in what he calls the Middle of Nowhere, Montana. Braden is home schooled and must wear his sunglasses every minute of the day because he sees spooky visions and flashes of scary images that no one else can see. Braden’s eyes hold magic within them that he can barely control. His Uncle John is his teacher and mentor and tries to help Braden learn better control. Lately Braden has become ansty. He feels like he’s cut off from the rest of the world and when he asks his uncle about his parents, he doesn’t get any real answers. And then he listens in on a phone call his uncle receives, where a place call Belle Dam is mentioned, as well as his father. Braden decides to leave his uncle and hops on a bus to find the answers he’s searching for.
His introduction to Belle Dam and the residents there are more than strange. There seems to be a family feud going on much like something from Romeo and Juliet and now Braden is a part of it. His father Jason Thorpe is an enemy of Catherine Lansing, one of the most powerful people in Belle Dam. Braden now will be forced to choose sides. His father rubs him the wrong way and even making friends becomes more than a hassle. But one resident there, Trey, goes out of his way to befriend Braden, although he isn’t upfront with him at first. Plus Braden starts to develop feelings for Trey other than friendship that Trey seems open to. But someone is trying to take Braden out of the picture and possibly kill him because the power he has in his eyes could destroy Belle Dam and those who want to rule there.
Witch Eyes is an easy read and one that’s simply written where I can see many teen boys and more than a few female readers enjoying the world and characters Scott has created. Half way through Witch Eyes, the story grew flat for me. I just couldn’t stay entertained. I wanted more for Braden, but the world he was apart of was too lacking for me.
The way Braden’s sexuality is revealed was too much telling. I wish this was revealed slowly as we get to know Braden. An example of this is when Braden is on the bus going to Belle Dam. An attractive guy, Braden thinks of as an Adonis in Abercrombie, hops on board. Braden is attracted to the Adonis, but instead of seeing his reactions and emotions unfolding on the page, it was much like a pause (think Zach Morris from Saved by the Bell doing his "time out"), where another narrator comes forth to point out that Braden is gay. Braden then brings up his uncle and how his uncle tried to ignore Braden’s sexual orientation. It came across as preachy to me and really took me out of the moment. I felt this revelation about Braden could have been handled better.
Also I think the emphasis on how different Braden is from his unnatural eyes to his sexuality is too much. It grew very tedious and really took away from the action and suspense that this book needed to be a winner.
Witch Eyes failed for me and I couldn’t finish. This is one book I wish I didn’t have to give a DNF to but there just wasn’t enough excitement and too many lulls to keep me reading.
Unfortunately the writing wasn’t strong enough since the buildup and getting from point A to point B took way too long. Also the world building was an issue where everything is revealed in such a way where again, I grew tried waiting for something explosive to happen.
Braden lives with his Uncle John in what he calls the Middle of Nowhere, Montana. Braden is home schooled and must wear his sunglasses every minute of the day because he sees spooky visions and flashes of scary images that no one else can see. Braden’s eyes hold magic within them that he can barely control. His Uncle John is his teacher and mentor and tries to help Braden learn better control. Lately Braden has become ansty. He feels like he’s cut off from the rest of the world and when he asks his uncle about his parents, he doesn’t get any real answers. And then he listens in on a phone call his uncle receives, where a place call Belle Dam is mentioned, as well as his father. Braden decides to leave his uncle and hops on a bus to find the answers he’s searching for.
His introduction to Belle Dam and the residents there are more than strange. There seems to be a family feud going on much like something from Romeo and Juliet and now Braden is a part of it. His father Jason Thorpe is an enemy of Catherine Lansing, one of the most powerful people in Belle Dam. Braden now will be forced to choose sides. His father rubs him the wrong way and even making friends becomes more than a hassle. But one resident there, Trey, goes out of his way to befriend Braden, although he isn’t upfront with him at first. Plus Braden starts to develop feelings for Trey other than friendship that Trey seems open to. But someone is trying to take Braden out of the picture and possibly kill him because the power he has in his eyes could destroy Belle Dam and those who want to rule there.
Witch Eyes is an easy read and one that’s simply written where I can see many teen boys and more than a few female readers enjoying the world and characters Scott has created. Half way through Witch Eyes, the story grew flat for me. I just couldn’t stay entertained. I wanted more for Braden, but the world he was apart of was too lacking for me.
The way Braden’s sexuality is revealed was too much telling. I wish this was revealed slowly as we get to know Braden. An example of this is when Braden is on the bus going to Belle Dam. An attractive guy, Braden thinks of as an Adonis in Abercrombie, hops on board. Braden is attracted to the Adonis, but instead of seeing his reactions and emotions unfolding on the page, it was much like a pause (think Zach Morris from Saved by the Bell doing his "time out"), where another narrator comes forth to point out that Braden is gay. Braden then brings up his uncle and how his uncle tried to ignore Braden’s sexual orientation. It came across as preachy to me and really took me out of the moment. I felt this revelation about Braden could have been handled better.
Also I think the emphasis on how different Braden is from his unnatural eyes to his sexuality is too much. It grew very tedious and really took away from the action and suspense that this book needed to be a winner.
Witch Eyes failed for me and I couldn’t finish. This is one book I wish I didn’t have to give a DNF to but there just wasn’t enough excitement and too many lulls to keep me reading.
January 29, 2011
Witch Eyes is compelling and elegantly written with a wit that has bite. Scott Tracey has woven a dark, beautiful world, and Braden is just the hero to lead us through it.
Five for you, Scott Tracey. You go, Scott Tracey.
Five for you, Scott Tracey. You go, Scott Tracey.
January 1, 2016
4.5? reread.Review on my blog!
July 27, 2011
Belle Dam is a town that has been shrouded in darkness ever since its inception. It is a town divided by a feud between the two powerful families who keep its secrets – the Lansing’s and the Thorpe’s. It is a town whose residents must choose sides in this battle that has continued to rage through generations.
And it is the town to which Braden Michaels runs in order to protect his uncle from the vision of a future which cost him his life.
But when Braden learns that Belle Dam was once home to someone who shared his gift and his curse – the witch eyes that allow him to see the truth of the world around him – he is determined to learn everything he can so that he will finally be able to master his abilities and find an escape from the pain that accompanies his visions.
Digging up secrets from the past would be a huge risk and one that could turn the spotlight on him and his powers. But Braden is desperate to find answers.
Even if it meant getting drawn into a fight that wasn’t his. And even if it meant that the secrets he’d been keeping would come to light. Because having a chance at a life without pain was worth almost any price, including the risk of losing someone he loved.
But Braden planned on keeping his secrets for as long as he could.
***
Witch Eyes is exciting, intense, beautiful, heartbreaking and incredibly original. Beginning in a binding circle and ending on a small cliff, this story introduces readers to Braden Michaels, a witch with a very unique gift, and Belle Dam, the town that is home to two powerful feuding families that would like nothing more than to have Braden on their side.
Braden has the ability to see the world as it really is and in doing so can unravel any magical spells that are cast. His power would prove very useful to either family, should he choose to align himself with one of them. Which meant that as long as he could hide what powers he had, he wouldn’t be forced to choose.
When Braden ran away from home in order to prevent his uncle’s death, he thought that Belle Dam would be a safe haven and a place where he could get answers. A place where he’d have a chance to just be normal.
But from the moment he arrived, he knew that there was something different about this town and its residents and that hiding out would not be an option. And when he discovers something about himself and his past, keeping his secrets and remaining hidden would become more important than ever.
Witch Eyes pulls readers into a dark and dangerous world of magic, spells and witchcraft and into a town that is wrapped in secrecy, where anyone can be an enemy.
Author Scott Tracey has created a story that will keep readers in suspense from the very beginning about who is the threat, who can be trusted and how can Braden possibly hope to keep his abilities secret in a town ruled by two very powerful witches.
The writing is elegant and flows beautifully, with incredibly descriptive passages detailing Braden’s experiences as he sees the world with his unshielded eyes. And the author injects humor into the story through Braden’s thoughts, clever comebacks and one-liners.
The characters have a unique set of abilities that serve to distinguish this story from others in the genre. Most notably are Braden’s witch eyes, which give him great power, but come at an equally significant cost.
This action-filled, magical tale, which includes a mystery and a love story, builds to an exciting conclusion that will leave readers wondering what will happen next.
Witch Eyes is a must for readers looking to be captivated by not only the writing, but the characters and the story, and readers who are interested in meeting a witch with some rather incredible powers that might actually be more harmful to him than the magic he can wield.
(On the blog I gave this my 6 star rating.)
On a personal note:
Yes, I’m in love. Again. And yes, it may have started out as insta-love. But it turned into one of those slow burning loves that continued to grow until it became all-encompassing. Will I gush? Maybe….Just a little bit.
This is one of those books where I just want to dive back into the world. Get caught back up in the vortex that held me captive the first and second times I read it. I’m not ready to leave Belle Dam or walk away from Braden. I don’t want to have to say goodbye.
There’s so much more I want to know. Now. Not a year from now. The wait just might kill me.
Belle Dam holds so many secrets, only a few of which were revealed by Braden’s witch eyes. I want to learn more about its past, the power that shaped the town, the feud that holds it hostage and the residents, like Riley, who were forced to choose sides.
And then there’s Braden. I’m definitely not ready to leave him. Not with the way things ended. I feel like I only just started to get to know him. He is still such a mystery. He is funny, shy, sarcastic, stubborn, clever and brave, but he is incredibly reluctant to open up and share what he’s feeling. With anyone. Including Trey… Especially Trey.
I can’t get over how amazingly beautiful the author’s writing is. I knew before I actually got my hands on a copy of the book that there was this fluidity to his writing that just took me right into the story. Witch Eyes is the only book I’ve been able to hear read aloud where I was instantly transported into the story instead of having to fight to focus.
And I absolutely loved the passages that described Braden’s visions. They were these dazzling flashes of poetry that perfectly described the onslaught of sensation that Braden felt every time he lifted his sunglasses and looked at the world.
But the writing wasn’t all poetry and lovely passages. There was plenty of action, super cool magical powers and a mystery which kept me riveted. And there were so many moments of humor that made me laugh. Loudly. There may have even been a few eye rolls, head shakes and Oh, Braden‘s.
Oh, and another thing I loved was that the author didn’t have Braden assess his own looks in any real way. He never made Braden step out of character in order to give readers a better idea of what Braden ranked on the hottie scale.
Whenever I get super excited about a book before I actually read it, I’m terrified that it won’t live up to my expectations. There’s always this risk that I won’t connect with the story or characters, or it will just be one of those books that’s not for me. And because this book was from a male character’s point-of-view there was an even greater chance that I just wouldn’t make that connection.
Yeah, well, I did. This book is so totally me. Right from the start I was completely absorbed by this book, even with my fear of witches, and I fell madly in love with Braden as a main character. He has just the right amount of sarcasm to make him someone I can relate to. Plus, he is not cocky or arrogant even though he must be pretty good looking if he captured Trey’s attention from the second he stepped off the bus.
And I am partial to stories that give me that pit in my stomach that lets me know that things just won’t end well. As soon as Braden arrived in Belle Dam, there was this feeling of melancholy that kept building. Like I knew that things would end in heartbreak. And no matter how much sarcasm and humor were dished out on the surface, the darkness that crept through Belle Dam seeped right through the pages and into my heart. Leaving me utterly wrecked at the very end.
Witch Eyes completely stole my heart and then broke it. The first line grabbed me and the last line destroyed me and all that stuff in between left its permanent mark on me. I did not forget one single moment between my first read and my second, and that almost never happens. Ohhh, Braden…
I am dying to find out what’s going on with Braden, Trey, Jade (I love her!), Riley, Drew and even Catherine and Jason. And I really am curious as to what’s happening in Montana with Uncle Jonathan.
Favorite passage: (I actually have eight favorites so it was tough to choose just one)
I’d like to say I had crazy dreams that made sense in few ways, but still managed to leave portents of the future all wrapped up in a nice and neat little bow. Instead, I dreamt of hamburgers.
Is this not such a perfect example of beautiful, flowing writing topped off with just the right amount of humor?
And it is the town to which Braden Michaels runs in order to protect his uncle from the vision of a future which cost him his life.
But when Braden learns that Belle Dam was once home to someone who shared his gift and his curse – the witch eyes that allow him to see the truth of the world around him – he is determined to learn everything he can so that he will finally be able to master his abilities and find an escape from the pain that accompanies his visions.
Digging up secrets from the past would be a huge risk and one that could turn the spotlight on him and his powers. But Braden is desperate to find answers.
Even if it meant getting drawn into a fight that wasn’t his. And even if it meant that the secrets he’d been keeping would come to light. Because having a chance at a life without pain was worth almost any price, including the risk of losing someone he loved.
But Braden planned on keeping his secrets for as long as he could.
***
Witch Eyes is exciting, intense, beautiful, heartbreaking and incredibly original. Beginning in a binding circle and ending on a small cliff, this story introduces readers to Braden Michaels, a witch with a very unique gift, and Belle Dam, the town that is home to two powerful feuding families that would like nothing more than to have Braden on their side.
Braden has the ability to see the world as it really is and in doing so can unravel any magical spells that are cast. His power would prove very useful to either family, should he choose to align himself with one of them. Which meant that as long as he could hide what powers he had, he wouldn’t be forced to choose.
When Braden ran away from home in order to prevent his uncle’s death, he thought that Belle Dam would be a safe haven and a place where he could get answers. A place where he’d have a chance to just be normal.
But from the moment he arrived, he knew that there was something different about this town and its residents and that hiding out would not be an option. And when he discovers something about himself and his past, keeping his secrets and remaining hidden would become more important than ever.
Witch Eyes pulls readers into a dark and dangerous world of magic, spells and witchcraft and into a town that is wrapped in secrecy, where anyone can be an enemy.
Author Scott Tracey has created a story that will keep readers in suspense from the very beginning about who is the threat, who can be trusted and how can Braden possibly hope to keep his abilities secret in a town ruled by two very powerful witches.
The writing is elegant and flows beautifully, with incredibly descriptive passages detailing Braden’s experiences as he sees the world with his unshielded eyes. And the author injects humor into the story through Braden’s thoughts, clever comebacks and one-liners.
The characters have a unique set of abilities that serve to distinguish this story from others in the genre. Most notably are Braden’s witch eyes, which give him great power, but come at an equally significant cost.
This action-filled, magical tale, which includes a mystery and a love story, builds to an exciting conclusion that will leave readers wondering what will happen next.
Witch Eyes is a must for readers looking to be captivated by not only the writing, but the characters and the story, and readers who are interested in meeting a witch with some rather incredible powers that might actually be more harmful to him than the magic he can wield.
(On the blog I gave this my 6 star rating.)
On a personal note:
Yes, I’m in love. Again. And yes, it may have started out as insta-love. But it turned into one of those slow burning loves that continued to grow until it became all-encompassing. Will I gush? Maybe….Just a little bit.
This is one of those books where I just want to dive back into the world. Get caught back up in the vortex that held me captive the first and second times I read it. I’m not ready to leave Belle Dam or walk away from Braden. I don’t want to have to say goodbye.
There’s so much more I want to know. Now. Not a year from now. The wait just might kill me.
Belle Dam holds so many secrets, only a few of which were revealed by Braden’s witch eyes. I want to learn more about its past, the power that shaped the town, the feud that holds it hostage and the residents, like Riley, who were forced to choose sides.
And then there’s Braden. I’m definitely not ready to leave him. Not with the way things ended. I feel like I only just started to get to know him. He is still such a mystery. He is funny, shy, sarcastic, stubborn, clever and brave, but he is incredibly reluctant to open up and share what he’s feeling. With anyone. Including Trey… Especially Trey.
I can’t get over how amazingly beautiful the author’s writing is. I knew before I actually got my hands on a copy of the book that there was this fluidity to his writing that just took me right into the story. Witch Eyes is the only book I’ve been able to hear read aloud where I was instantly transported into the story instead of having to fight to focus.
And I absolutely loved the passages that described Braden’s visions. They were these dazzling flashes of poetry that perfectly described the onslaught of sensation that Braden felt every time he lifted his sunglasses and looked at the world.
But the writing wasn’t all poetry and lovely passages. There was plenty of action, super cool magical powers and a mystery which kept me riveted. And there were so many moments of humor that made me laugh. Loudly. There may have even been a few eye rolls, head shakes and Oh, Braden‘s.
Oh, and another thing I loved was that the author didn’t have Braden assess his own looks in any real way. He never made Braden step out of character in order to give readers a better idea of what Braden ranked on the hottie scale.
Whenever I get super excited about a book before I actually read it, I’m terrified that it won’t live up to my expectations. There’s always this risk that I won’t connect with the story or characters, or it will just be one of those books that’s not for me. And because this book was from a male character’s point-of-view there was an even greater chance that I just wouldn’t make that connection.
Yeah, well, I did. This book is so totally me. Right from the start I was completely absorbed by this book, even with my fear of witches, and I fell madly in love with Braden as a main character. He has just the right amount of sarcasm to make him someone I can relate to. Plus, he is not cocky or arrogant even though he must be pretty good looking if he captured Trey’s attention from the second he stepped off the bus.
And I am partial to stories that give me that pit in my stomach that lets me know that things just won’t end well. As soon as Braden arrived in Belle Dam, there was this feeling of melancholy that kept building. Like I knew that things would end in heartbreak. And no matter how much sarcasm and humor were dished out on the surface, the darkness that crept through Belle Dam seeped right through the pages and into my heart. Leaving me utterly wrecked at the very end.
Witch Eyes completely stole my heart and then broke it. The first line grabbed me and the last line destroyed me and all that stuff in between left its permanent mark on me. I did not forget one single moment between my first read and my second, and that almost never happens. Ohhh, Braden…
I am dying to find out what’s going on with Braden, Trey, Jade (I love her!), Riley, Drew and even Catherine and Jason. And I really am curious as to what’s happening in Montana with Uncle Jonathan.
Favorite passage: (I actually have eight favorites so it was tough to choose just one)
I’d like to say I had crazy dreams that made sense in few ways, but still managed to leave portents of the future all wrapped up in a nice and neat little bow. Instead, I dreamt of hamburgers.
Is this not such a perfect example of beautiful, flowing writing topped off with just the right amount of humor?
Want to read
December 21, 2010Marking as TO-READ because of this girl's ignorant comment on why she WON'T read it. (http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...)
March 18, 2021
This was originally going to be a two-star. Nothing kept me interested. The characters were flat, the plot was flat, the romance was flat, but I didn't despise reading it. I was more bored than anything.
Then the misogyny hit me in the face. Somebody explain to me what the hell Candy did to Braden for him to talk about her in the way he did? Context, Candy's like a secretary or something.
Now, I know that there's always going to be one person that's like ' What misogyny? I didn't see any misogyny! ' Well, that's why I marked down pages for the first time.
'Fake hair, fake lips. Fake everything. I didn't believe that any parent would willingly name their daughter Candy. She was a Playboy Playmate dressed up as a secretary. This had to be some kind of joke.' (Page 75 in my version of the book). All this character has done in the story is say 'Mr. Fallon will see you now.' Now, that might be me being overly sensitive. So I was willing to throw it under the bus.
Then on page 132 it says, ''Just be sure to water your skank,' I said as I passed him, 'She's looking a little shallow.'' Same fucking character. I'd like to point out that the character hasn't even shown up again from page 75 and I don't even think she shows up again in the book. Who the hell uses the word skank? I have only heard the word 'skank' used in After and you don't want to be like that book.
This has early 2000's level of bad plot, bad characters, bad everything. First of all, nothing really made sense? Braden runs away from home and his uncle doesn't know a thing about it. But when Braden calls him up, the uncle doesn't question shit and is like 'what's up?' Braden willingly gets into a car with Trey after barely talking to him despite the fact he knows about the whole Lansing versus whatever the hell the other dude's name is. I can't remember any of the side character's names because literally, the two other girls' only personality traits were shit-talking each other. There was even a line where one of them asked Braden 'does this dress make me look fat?' cause that's not stereotypical at all.
This book was very disappointing and I would not recommend it.
Then the misogyny hit me in the face. Somebody explain to me what the hell Candy did to Braden for him to talk about her in the way he did? Context, Candy's like a secretary or something.
Now, I know that there's always going to be one person that's like ' What misogyny? I didn't see any misogyny! ' Well, that's why I marked down pages for the first time.
'Fake hair, fake lips. Fake everything. I didn't believe that any parent would willingly name their daughter Candy. She was a Playboy Playmate dressed up as a secretary. This had to be some kind of joke.' (Page 75 in my version of the book). All this character has done in the story is say 'Mr. Fallon will see you now.' Now, that might be me being overly sensitive. So I was willing to throw it under the bus.
Then on page 132 it says, ''Just be sure to water your skank,' I said as I passed him, 'She's looking a little shallow.'' Same fucking character. I'd like to point out that the character hasn't even shown up again from page 75 and I don't even think she shows up again in the book. Who the hell uses the word skank? I have only heard the word 'skank' used in After and you don't want to be like that book.
This has early 2000's level of bad plot, bad characters, bad everything. First of all, nothing really made sense? Braden runs away from home and his uncle doesn't know a thing about it. But when Braden calls him up, the uncle doesn't question shit and is like 'what's up?' Braden willingly gets into a car with Trey after barely talking to him despite the fact he knows about the whole Lansing versus whatever the hell the other dude's name is. I can't remember any of the side character's names because literally, the two other girls' only personality traits were shit-talking each other. There was even a line where one of them asked Braden 'does this dress make me look fat?' cause that's not stereotypical at all.
This book was very disappointing and I would not recommend it.
August 21, 2011
Wow. This book was amazing. I loved that Braden is gay but the fact that he is gay is not the focus. He's just himself. His orientation is introduced and woven through the story as seamlessly as it should be in the real world. I love that it just is. I think that Braden has to be my favorite GLBT character of all time. I also love his relationship with Trey. It is sweet and real. It builds slowly but is both passionate and believable. Which is my brother and his fiance's biggest pet peeve in books about gay men. (Hey, Kevin and Ivan! Love you and you are getting this book when Wen is done with it!) They think most gay men in books are unrealistic because they jump the object of their affection within 4 chapters of meeting him. That doesn't happen in this book. Things between Braden and Trey smolder for a bit before they ignite and even then there is no jumping.
Braden is a great character, he is strong and loyal. He leaves his uncle who raised him to keep his uncle safe from coming danger. He goes to a town that he has never been to before and faces any number of unknowns to keep his uncle safe. How many teens would do that? Trey is nearly as great a character as Braden. I love how Trey always just pops up and at first he's all mysterious. As the story unfolds, we learn more and more about Trey and his family. Trey is fiercely loyal to his mother and sister. He would do anything to protect them even though I'm pretty sure his mom can protect herself just fine. I think my favorite part of the book was the bits where Braden would look into people with his "witch eyes." What they were thinking and feeling would come to him in smatterings of words and phrases and colors. Those passages were especially beautiful and surprisingly insightful.
I can not wait for the second book, Demon Eyes. The end of Witch Eyes leaves you dying to know what happens next. I would suggest this book for readers 12 years and over. There is some kissing but nothing graphic. I highly recommend this book
Braden is a great character, he is strong and loyal. He leaves his uncle who raised him to keep his uncle safe from coming danger. He goes to a town that he has never been to before and faces any number of unknowns to keep his uncle safe. How many teens would do that? Trey is nearly as great a character as Braden. I love how Trey always just pops up and at first he's all mysterious. As the story unfolds, we learn more and more about Trey and his family. Trey is fiercely loyal to his mother and sister. He would do anything to protect them even though I'm pretty sure his mom can protect herself just fine. I think my favorite part of the book was the bits where Braden would look into people with his "witch eyes." What they were thinking and feeling would come to him in smatterings of words and phrases and colors. Those passages were especially beautiful and surprisingly insightful.
I can not wait for the second book, Demon Eyes. The end of Witch Eyes leaves you dying to know what happens next. I would suggest this book for readers 12 years and over. There is some kissing but nothing graphic. I highly recommend this book
August 19, 2011
Oh my gosh, I have just been reading so many fabulous books lately. Witch Eyes fit right in that category. I have been really looking forward to Witch Eyes for months, since I first heard about it, and I honestly don't know if I have the words to express my feelings for Witch Eyes, but I'll certainly try.
I really love witches. I think they're one of the most fun, well paranormal isn't really the right word but I'll just use it for the lack of a better word, paranormal being out there because they're human, they just have magic. There's also so many different ways witches can be, and Scott Tracey really went out on a limb and made his witches super unique. That made Witch Eyes so much fun to read, because there was no predictability with the business of witches.
Witch Eyes was really well written. This was my first thought when I started reading the book, and continued to be an omnipresent thought as I read Witch Eyes. The story line was super easy to get caught up in. With everything going on in this small town, I was so curious as to how everything would turn out. I loved that I never was able to predict the path of the story line.
All the characters in Witch Eyes were all around super lovely, with the exception of Fallon and Jason, because I thought they were kind of just slimeballs and Catherine was kind of a snot. I really loved Braden. He was super witty and I just loved his character. He had the best insults, ever. I loved Riley's spunk. I wasn't expecting to like Jade, I honestly was expecting her to turn out to be the typical mean girl.
Witch Eyes was another phenomenal debut that I have read this year. With its original storyline and unforgettable characters, Witch Eyes is one of the best books of the year. Scott Tracey is definitely an author to watch.
I really love witches. I think they're one of the most fun, well paranormal isn't really the right word but I'll just use it for the lack of a better word, paranormal being out there because they're human, they just have magic. There's also so many different ways witches can be, and Scott Tracey really went out on a limb and made his witches super unique. That made Witch Eyes so much fun to read, because there was no predictability with the business of witches.
Witch Eyes was really well written. This was my first thought when I started reading the book, and continued to be an omnipresent thought as I read Witch Eyes. The story line was super easy to get caught up in. With everything going on in this small town, I was so curious as to how everything would turn out. I loved that I never was able to predict the path of the story line.
All the characters in Witch Eyes were all around super lovely, with the exception of Fallon and Jason, because I thought they were kind of just slimeballs and Catherine was kind of a snot. I really loved Braden. He was super witty and I just loved his character. He had the best insults, ever. I loved Riley's spunk. I wasn't expecting to like Jade, I honestly was expecting her to turn out to be the typical mean girl.
Witch Eyes was another phenomenal debut that I have read this year. With its original storyline and unforgettable characters, Witch Eyes is one of the best books of the year. Scott Tracey is definitely an author to watch.
April 25, 2011
This book is better than cheese curds.
May 24, 2023
lord i know you create your children so preciously but have have mercy on those people who decide to write unreadable books it threw me in a rage i couldn't describe i hated every bit
unfinished
March 26, 2020Abandoned at 30 %. I didn't know what was going on and worse, I did not care.
August 6, 2011
A boy who can see the world’s secrets and unravel spells with just a glance.
Braden’s witch eyes give him an enormous power. A mere look causes a kaleidoscopic explosion of emotions, memories, darkness, and magic. But this rare gift is also his biggest curse.
Compelled to learn about his shadowed past and the family he never knew, Braden is drawn to the city of Belle Dam, where he is soon caught between two feuding witch dynasties. Sworn rivals Catherine Lansing and Jason Thorpe will use anything—lies, manipulation, illusion, and even murder—to seize control of Braden’s powers. To stop an ancient evil from destroying the town, Braden must master his gift, even through the shocking discovery that Jason is his father. While his feelings for an enigmatic boy named Trey grow deeper, Braden realizes a terrible truth: Trey is Catherine Lansing’s son . . . and Braden may be destined to kill him.
I’ve been hearing a lot about this novel and I actually had it on pre-order. However yours truly has peepuls and was able to procure an ARC (hat tip to E).
Ladies & gentlemen, it’s a wrap. The gauntlet has been thrown, the bar has been raised, the standard has been set. THIS is how it’s done! I haven’t been this excited about a novel featuring a gay protagonist since Perry Moore’s Hero.
Braden proves to be a strong protagonist. He’s a three-dimensional character. He makes mistakes, he’s fallible, he’s human and sympathetic. And even when he gets himself into trouble, this is still a character you can root for. While there’s angst aplenty, he has more than enough legtimiate reasons for said angst (which keeps him sympathetic) and Tracey does an excellent job not allowing said angst to pummel and warp Braden’s characterization and development. Tracey also avoids making him stilted and obnoxious like a lot of writers do with their characters.
Tracey’s description and prose is quite impressive. It didn’t overburden you with filler and purple prose. Between the descriptions and the first person narrative, you could easily place yourself in Belle Dam and easily visualize the town and its inhabitants. The mythos and the plot immediately sucked me in and I was dying to find out what happened next. Many of the characters have secrets and agendas, and you’re eagerly awaiting them to show their hands. And more than once I got impatient with intel the audience finds out early on and was wanting to scream, REVEAL ALREADY. The anticipation was killing me.
Forgive the vagueness of this review but I’m trying to keep this as spoiler free as possible.
And can I stress how much I love the book cover?
Braden’s orientation was also handled as-a-matter-of-factly, with nuance, with insight and respect. Witch Eyes could’ve easily have worked with Braden being a heterosexual and it was a relief to read a story that wasn’t a formulaic coming out tale or a tragic gay angst tale or Braden being the formulaic gay guy whose sole raison d’entre revolves around his orientation.
What was also a relief was that the romance didn’t overwhelm the story like you see too often in countless YA, gay novels, and urban fantasy books. The romance was one (albeit important) part of the complex and interwoven plot. The romance was well-executed, as was the mystery, the action and the drama. But it was all well-balanced which made the story that much stronger and that much more enjoyable.
And speaking of romance and love interests, Trey’s a dick. Braden is too good for him and can do so much better. I’m down for Team Somebody Else. And that objective analysis has nothing to do with the fact that Trey reminds me of my ex. Nope, not at all.
[shakes head solemnly]
When it comes to storytelling, Tracey proves that he knows his craft and I found myself having to pace myself with the story because I didn’t want the book to end too soon. There isn’t much resolution at the end which I initially found distressing. But said distress was quickly relieved when I found out that Witch Eyes is the first of a series and the next book is scheduled to be released next year. Thank God. From what little I’ve researched, it appears that Witch Eyes only answered a few questions only to unlock more mysteries. Shorthand, to quote Jim Ross, business is about to pick up.
And if Tracey is this impressive in his debut novel, I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next.
It saddens me that it took three years for me to find another enjoyable book that features a queer male protagonist. The last one I read was Hero. When you stop and think about the number of books that get churned out each year which feature cis straight white protagonists, it’s all the more infuriating.
But hopefully Witch Eyes is a sign of things changing. We still have a long ways to go obviously but maybe novels like this will lead to more.
Braden’s witch eyes give him an enormous power. A mere look causes a kaleidoscopic explosion of emotions, memories, darkness, and magic. But this rare gift is also his biggest curse.
Compelled to learn about his shadowed past and the family he never knew, Braden is drawn to the city of Belle Dam, where he is soon caught between two feuding witch dynasties. Sworn rivals Catherine Lansing and Jason Thorpe will use anything—lies, manipulation, illusion, and even murder—to seize control of Braden’s powers. To stop an ancient evil from destroying the town, Braden must master his gift, even through the shocking discovery that Jason is his father. While his feelings for an enigmatic boy named Trey grow deeper, Braden realizes a terrible truth: Trey is Catherine Lansing’s son . . . and Braden may be destined to kill him.
I’ve been hearing a lot about this novel and I actually had it on pre-order. However yours truly has peepuls and was able to procure an ARC (hat tip to E).
Ladies & gentlemen, it’s a wrap. The gauntlet has been thrown, the bar has been raised, the standard has been set. THIS is how it’s done! I haven’t been this excited about a novel featuring a gay protagonist since Perry Moore’s Hero.
Braden proves to be a strong protagonist. He’s a three-dimensional character. He makes mistakes, he’s fallible, he’s human and sympathetic. And even when he gets himself into trouble, this is still a character you can root for. While there’s angst aplenty, he has more than enough legtimiate reasons for said angst (which keeps him sympathetic) and Tracey does an excellent job not allowing said angst to pummel and warp Braden’s characterization and development. Tracey also avoids making him stilted and obnoxious like a lot of writers do with their characters.
Tracey’s description and prose is quite impressive. It didn’t overburden you with filler and purple prose. Between the descriptions and the first person narrative, you could easily place yourself in Belle Dam and easily visualize the town and its inhabitants. The mythos and the plot immediately sucked me in and I was dying to find out what happened next. Many of the characters have secrets and agendas, and you’re eagerly awaiting them to show their hands. And more than once I got impatient with intel the audience finds out early on and was wanting to scream, REVEAL ALREADY. The anticipation was killing me.
Forgive the vagueness of this review but I’m trying to keep this as spoiler free as possible.
And can I stress how much I love the book cover?
Braden’s orientation was also handled as-a-matter-of-factly, with nuance, with insight and respect. Witch Eyes could’ve easily have worked with Braden being a heterosexual and it was a relief to read a story that wasn’t a formulaic coming out tale or a tragic gay angst tale or Braden being the formulaic gay guy whose sole raison d’entre revolves around his orientation.
What was also a relief was that the romance didn’t overwhelm the story like you see too often in countless YA, gay novels, and urban fantasy books. The romance was one (albeit important) part of the complex and interwoven plot. The romance was well-executed, as was the mystery, the action and the drama. But it was all well-balanced which made the story that much stronger and that much more enjoyable.
And speaking of romance and love interests, Trey’s a dick. Braden is too good for him and can do so much better. I’m down for Team Somebody Else. And that objective analysis has nothing to do with the fact that Trey reminds me of my ex. Nope, not at all.
[shakes head solemnly]
When it comes to storytelling, Tracey proves that he knows his craft and I found myself having to pace myself with the story because I didn’t want the book to end too soon. There isn’t much resolution at the end which I initially found distressing. But said distress was quickly relieved when I found out that Witch Eyes is the first of a series and the next book is scheduled to be released next year. Thank God. From what little I’ve researched, it appears that Witch Eyes only answered a few questions only to unlock more mysteries. Shorthand, to quote Jim Ross, business is about to pick up.
And if Tracey is this impressive in his debut novel, I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next.
It saddens me that it took three years for me to find another enjoyable book that features a queer male protagonist. The last one I read was Hero. When you stop and think about the number of books that get churned out each year which feature cis straight white protagonists, it’s all the more infuriating.
But hopefully Witch Eyes is a sign of things changing. We still have a long ways to go obviously but maybe novels like this will lead to more.
May 6, 2024
yikes... it had inklings of a very interesting plot but something about the writing is so corny it took me right out. the story isn't explained well enough which makes the reading experience a jumbled mess. character interactions seemingly contradict what we've already learned about them. I thought I would at least enjoy the gay romance but even it fell really flat, with braden and trey falling too fast into a relationship with no chemistry. I think this is going to be a "google the plot of the next two books" scenario because there's no way I'm reading them...
May 11, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: A wonderful male MC with a strong point-of-view in an engaging paranormal.
Opening Sentence: Binding circles were bad news, my uncle said.
The Review:
I’ve heard great things about Scott Tracey’s Witch Eyes. In a world of popular young adult fiction, Witch Eyes stands out, to me. Tracey builds a dynamic world, filled with strong characters and an even stronger plot. With many supernatural, action, and suspenseful elements, Tracey adds his own unique elements. Definitely one of the enjoyable reads for this year.
Braden has been sheltered for most of his life. His uncle John has hidden him in the middle of nowhere, teaching him everything he can about magic, spells, and elements. But Braden is as powerful as any witch, because he was born with witch eyes. Witch eyes are an ability to see the world in it’s truest sense. Braden can see the darkness lingering, the magic essence, and an explosion of memories that have left its remnants. But an unexpected and terrible vision has altered Braden’s life. In order to protect his uncle, Braden sets off for Belle Dam, a city familiar to his family but that he has never known. Once he arrives, he quickly discovers the history of two feuding witch families,the Lansings and the Thorpes. But that’s not all he discovers, and he may have put himself and his loved ones in even more danger.
Braden is a strong character. I thought him to be layered with so many great qualities. His life choice doesn’t define him in any way, nor did Tracey make it a large issue in Witch Eyes. Braden is unique and original, determined and filled with strength. His eyes add a sense of vulnerability to him, but in a calculating, observant sense. He is sensitive, but to those that he cares about the most. It’s rare that I find a character to be strong from start to finish, and that was Braden, through and through.
The world in Witch Eyes was interesting. Tracey built Belle Dam to become a complex spell. Each character, each place added to the darkness looming around the city. It added to the mystery, and I really enjoyed it. The action was jam-packed. I didn’t expect to see hellhounds, shape shifters, and demons in the mix. It definitely added an evil element, fierce and creepy. Let me just say there’s a little girl that will give you nightmares!
Witch Eyes was an easy read. The beginning instantly grabs you, and you’re on this intense journey. Tracey fills your mind with detail, but surprisingly enough, I didn’t feel bogged down by the information. He paced the chapters nicely, and I never felt like a scene dragged on. He adds a slight romance, and for those of you who have never written LGBT elements, don’t worry. Tracey doesn’t make this element define the characters, but adds an extra awesome factor to the story.
Witch Eyes was different, as were its world and characters. Tracey brought out my imagination and I highly enjoyed it.
Notable Scene:
A woman with her face covered. Like in my vision?
Lucien was still talking. “For now, enjoy Belle Dam. This could be your life, Braden. Normal school, friends, football games and pizza? Do I have it about right?”
I was supposed to trust him, but he still made me uncomfortable. “What’s your angle?” I asked carefully. This isn’t normal, part of me wanted to say, but the rest of me was already considering the possibilities. High school. Hanging out with friends.
The lawyer flashed another smile, and for the first time, I saw shadows in the depths of his eyes. “Angles are for people playing games.” He stood up from the table, pulled out his wallet, and dropped a bill down. “Lawyers deal in agendas.”
FTC Advisory: I purchased this copy of Witch Eyes on my own. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A wonderful male MC with a strong point-of-view in an engaging paranormal.
Opening Sentence: Binding circles were bad news, my uncle said.
The Review:
I’ve heard great things about Scott Tracey’s Witch Eyes. In a world of popular young adult fiction, Witch Eyes stands out, to me. Tracey builds a dynamic world, filled with strong characters and an even stronger plot. With many supernatural, action, and suspenseful elements, Tracey adds his own unique elements. Definitely one of the enjoyable reads for this year.
Braden has been sheltered for most of his life. His uncle John has hidden him in the middle of nowhere, teaching him everything he can about magic, spells, and elements. But Braden is as powerful as any witch, because he was born with witch eyes. Witch eyes are an ability to see the world in it’s truest sense. Braden can see the darkness lingering, the magic essence, and an explosion of memories that have left its remnants. But an unexpected and terrible vision has altered Braden’s life. In order to protect his uncle, Braden sets off for Belle Dam, a city familiar to his family but that he has never known. Once he arrives, he quickly discovers the history of two feuding witch families,the Lansings and the Thorpes. But that’s not all he discovers, and he may have put himself and his loved ones in even more danger.
Braden is a strong character. I thought him to be layered with so many great qualities. His life choice doesn’t define him in any way, nor did Tracey make it a large issue in Witch Eyes. Braden is unique and original, determined and filled with strength. His eyes add a sense of vulnerability to him, but in a calculating, observant sense. He is sensitive, but to those that he cares about the most. It’s rare that I find a character to be strong from start to finish, and that was Braden, through and through.
The world in Witch Eyes was interesting. Tracey built Belle Dam to become a complex spell. Each character, each place added to the darkness looming around the city. It added to the mystery, and I really enjoyed it. The action was jam-packed. I didn’t expect to see hellhounds, shape shifters, and demons in the mix. It definitely added an evil element, fierce and creepy. Let me just say there’s a little girl that will give you nightmares!
Witch Eyes was an easy read. The beginning instantly grabs you, and you’re on this intense journey. Tracey fills your mind with detail, but surprisingly enough, I didn’t feel bogged down by the information. He paced the chapters nicely, and I never felt like a scene dragged on. He adds a slight romance, and for those of you who have never written LGBT elements, don’t worry. Tracey doesn’t make this element define the characters, but adds an extra awesome factor to the story.
Witch Eyes was different, as were its world and characters. Tracey brought out my imagination and I highly enjoyed it.
Notable Scene:
A woman with her face covered. Like in my vision?
Lucien was still talking. “For now, enjoy Belle Dam. This could be your life, Braden. Normal school, friends, football games and pizza? Do I have it about right?”
I was supposed to trust him, but he still made me uncomfortable. “What’s your angle?” I asked carefully. This isn’t normal, part of me wanted to say, but the rest of me was already considering the possibilities. High school. Hanging out with friends.
The lawyer flashed another smile, and for the first time, I saw shadows in the depths of his eyes. “Angles are for people playing games.” He stood up from the table, pulled out his wallet, and dropped a bill down. “Lawyers deal in agendas.”
FTC Advisory: I purchased this copy of Witch Eyes on my own. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
April 10, 2013
My thoughts
Expectations : Reading from a male’s perspective is always fun. I heard of this book after I had just become part of the Goodreads community. . I love fictional family feuds and the inclusion of witches makes it all the better. I have had it on my wish list for a while and I immediately said yes when a kind popular blogger said she could gift me witch eyes and its sequel.
Cover : I’m not normally a fan of floating heads. But this one isn’t that bad. The Thorpe mansion is shown on the cover with an edge of the belle dam forest behind it. And the picture of the guy is really cute. I’m weird, I know.
Book : Braden hasn’t had the typical normal childhood. He lives with his uncle and exercises loads of magical spells and etc daily. And he is seen as the weird kid with glasses. He has eyes than can unravel spells, memories and emotions etched in places. A splitting headache havocs his mind every time he uses his ‘’gift’’. He left his uncle in the middle of the night to goes to Belle Dam. The place where has a decent clue of his heritage and family and his uncle would stop him if he knew. Braden meets this mysterious and interesting good looking brown shaggy haired guy and finds outs about the feud. Among all the people he meets there is someone who’s more interested than usual in this feud and could be the Big Bad. Finding out who could be difficult because everyone seems suspicious. And will the new love that sprung with Braden and the handsome stranger suffer or bloom in this seemingly across the surface calm town.
Let me start with the positives :
So let the negatives follow. Sometimes you have to take good with the bad. Writing a book is easier said than done and publishing one is even more so. And I congratulate Mister Tracey for that. Quite some people liked or loved witch eyes. I’m not saying it is badly written but nothing really happened in the 1st book of the trilogy. It was like a 2nd title in a series with second book syndrome. The last 3 or 4 chapters were fast paced and somewhat intense but it could not rejuvenate my interest for witch eyes after I got bored with it. I often finish a book no matter how boring.
2. Braden Thorne was an okay leading male, but he was whining quite a lot at moments in this book and being bad tempered and rude when stuff didn’t work out. He was awfully rude to his dad and uncle He redeemed himself a bit in the end. They try to be good parental figures.
3. I could not care that much for the rest of the characters. Expect for Riley, a perky school reporter, and Braden‘s uncle. They were just characters for the sake of being characters that where needed for the plot.
4. The romance was like any other typical paranormal YA romance. A girl and a guy meet somewhere. The guy is so mysterious and they fall and care for in each other in an instant. But in this case it’s two dudes. It was forced and to make it more entertaining make it forbidden. Yep, that’s the whole romantic plotline. Trey was just another pretty boy who was busy being chivalrous by protecting Braden from harm. The only positive were the cute/hot kiss scenes.
That’s all I have to say. My experience with Witch eyes was nothing special but if you want to, read it. Go ahead and give it a try. I don’t know if I would have given book two a try if I did not have it already. If witch eyes was better I would not have given it a 3 out 5.
Expectations : Reading from a male’s perspective is always fun. I heard of this book after I had just become part of the Goodreads community. . I love fictional family feuds and the inclusion of witches makes it all the better. I have had it on my wish list for a while and I immediately said yes when a kind popular blogger said she could gift me witch eyes and its sequel.
Cover : I’m not normally a fan of floating heads. But this one isn’t that bad. The Thorpe mansion is shown on the cover with an edge of the belle dam forest behind it. And the picture of the guy is really cute. I’m weird, I know.
Book : Braden hasn’t had the typical normal childhood. He lives with his uncle and exercises loads of magical spells and etc daily. And he is seen as the weird kid with glasses. He has eyes than can unravel spells, memories and emotions etched in places. A splitting headache havocs his mind every time he uses his ‘’gift’’. He left his uncle in the middle of the night to goes to Belle Dam. The place where has a decent clue of his heritage and family and his uncle would stop him if he knew. Braden meets this mysterious and interesting good looking brown shaggy haired guy and finds outs about the feud. Among all the people he meets there is someone who’s more interested than usual in this feud and could be the Big Bad. Finding out who could be difficult because everyone seems suspicious. And will the new love that sprung with Braden and the handsome stranger suffer or bloom in this seemingly across the surface calm town.
Let me start with the positives :
So let the negatives follow. Sometimes you have to take good with the bad. Writing a book is easier said than done and publishing one is even more so. And I congratulate Mister Tracey for that. Quite some people liked or loved witch eyes. I’m not saying it is badly written but nothing really happened in the 1st book of the trilogy. It was like a 2nd title in a series with second book syndrome. The last 3 or 4 chapters were fast paced and somewhat intense but it could not rejuvenate my interest for witch eyes after I got bored with it. I often finish a book no matter how boring.
2. Braden Thorne was an okay leading male, but he was whining quite a lot at moments in this book and being bad tempered and rude when stuff didn’t work out. He was awfully rude to his dad and uncle He redeemed himself a bit in the end. They try to be good parental figures.
3. I could not care that much for the rest of the characters. Expect for Riley, a perky school reporter, and Braden‘s uncle. They were just characters for the sake of being characters that where needed for the plot.
4. The romance was like any other typical paranormal YA romance. A girl and a guy meet somewhere. The guy is so mysterious and they fall and care for in each other in an instant. But in this case it’s two dudes. It was forced and to make it more entertaining make it forbidden. Yep, that’s the whole romantic plotline. Trey was just another pretty boy who was busy being chivalrous by protecting Braden from harm. The only positive were the cute/hot kiss scenes.
That’s all I have to say. My experience with Witch eyes was nothing special but if you want to, read it. Go ahead and give it a try. I don’t know if I would have given book two a try if I did not have it already. If witch eyes was better I would not have given it a 3 out 5.
October 7, 2011
Opravdu výborná kniha. Je škoda, že YA knih s čistě mužskou (či ženskou) romantikou není víc. Většina lidí se sice tváří, že homosexuály toleruje a že je chápe, ovšem knihy o nich se pro dospívající moc nepíšou. Anebo jsem alespoň já na žádnou dobrou nenarazila.
Braden už od malička žije jenom se svým strýcem, který jej učí čarodějnickému řemeslu. Žijí na samotě u lesa, dál od běžného života, jak jej známe my. Braden totiž i mezi čaroději není tak úplně obyčejný. Má čarodějnické oči. Oči, které vidí všechno a všechny. Vidí příběhy i charaktery lidí okolo. Nemůže se této schopnosti zbavit. Aby ji dokázal alespoň nějak utlumit, nosí sluneční brýle. Jinak by totiž trpěl neskutečnými migrénami a bolestmi. Velká moc s sebou vždycky přináší oběti.
A jak to tak vypadá, někdo po Bradenovi jde a nezastaví se, dokud jej nedostane. Proto se Braden rozhodne odejít do Belle Dam, aby zachránil svému strýci život a našel odpovědi na své otázky. Nevědomky však napochoduje přímo do letité čarodějné války...
Nevím, osobně by mi nejspíš bylo trochu nepříjemné číst o lesbické lásce, přestože mi lesbičky jako takové nevadí. Ke gayům mám však mnohem lepší vztah, s několika se přátelím a vůbec je nevnímám jinak. To jen na okraj.
Číst knihu o homosexuálech, kterou napsal chlap, je celkově zvláštní. Z 80% z knihy vycítíte, jestli ji psal chlap nebo ženská. Rozdílů si všimnete. U knihy o lásce mezi kluky je to těžké. Člověk nemá moc s čím porovnávat, takže si všímá věcí jiným způsobem, než tomu bývá u klasických YA knih.
Musím říct, že Scott napsal skvělou čarodějnickou knihu. Je správně tajemná, akční, nebezpečná, romantická... Má všechno, co by dobrá kniha měla mít, aby čtenáře její čtení bavilo. Postupně odkrýváte vrstvu za vrstvou temného tajemství, které obklopuje celé město a štve obyvatele proti sobě. Spolu s Bradenem bojujete proti něčemu, co ani nedokážete pojmenovat, protože prostě nevíte, co se stalo.
A do toho všeho ještě vstupují mladé hormony. Trey je vyloženě klasický macho s hrdinským komplexem. Ve své podstatě je vztah Trey a Bradena podobný jako v každé další YA knize. Ovšem Braden rozhodně neomdlévá, jenom co Treye uvidí, ani jen tak bezduše nebloumá městem a rozhodně se nenechává vést za ručičku. Braden je bojovník, stejně tak Trey. Proto, i když k sobě evidentně něco cítí, se častokrát dostávají do šarvátek. Prostě dva kohouti na jednom hřišti, chápeme? Až na to, že Braden je mnohem mocnější kohout :D
Celkově se mi kniha opravdu líbila a doporučila bych ji všem, kteří mají rádi yaoi... a kvalitní počtení. Jestli si myslíte, že vám bude nepříjemné číst o dvou zamilovaných klucích, tak se do knihy nepouštějte. Já bych byla ráda, kdyby podobných knih bylo i víc, protože by mohly pomoct některým dospívajícím vyznat se sami v sobě. A je jedno, jestli jde o fantasy, scifi, paranormálno... Všichni jsme lidi, kteří mají kolikrát podobné problémy.
Moc se těším na pokračování. Název Demon Eyes zní hodně zajímavě, škoda jen, že si budu muset počkat do dalšího roku.
Braden už od malička žije jenom se svým strýcem, který jej učí čarodějnickému řemeslu. Žijí na samotě u lesa, dál od běžného života, jak jej známe my. Braden totiž i mezi čaroději není tak úplně obyčejný. Má čarodějnické oči. Oči, které vidí všechno a všechny. Vidí příběhy i charaktery lidí okolo. Nemůže se této schopnosti zbavit. Aby ji dokázal alespoň nějak utlumit, nosí sluneční brýle. Jinak by totiž trpěl neskutečnými migrénami a bolestmi. Velká moc s sebou vždycky přináší oběti.
A jak to tak vypadá, někdo po Bradenovi jde a nezastaví se, dokud jej nedostane. Proto se Braden rozhodne odejít do Belle Dam, aby zachránil svému strýci život a našel odpovědi na své otázky. Nevědomky však napochoduje přímo do letité čarodějné války...
Nevím, osobně by mi nejspíš bylo trochu nepříjemné číst o lesbické lásce, přestože mi lesbičky jako takové nevadí. Ke gayům mám však mnohem lepší vztah, s několika se přátelím a vůbec je nevnímám jinak. To jen na okraj.
Číst knihu o homosexuálech, kterou napsal chlap, je celkově zvláštní. Z 80% z knihy vycítíte, jestli ji psal chlap nebo ženská. Rozdílů si všimnete. U knihy o lásce mezi kluky je to těžké. Člověk nemá moc s čím porovnávat, takže si všímá věcí jiným způsobem, než tomu bývá u klasických YA knih.
Musím říct, že Scott napsal skvělou čarodějnickou knihu. Je správně tajemná, akční, nebezpečná, romantická... Má všechno, co by dobrá kniha měla mít, aby čtenáře její čtení bavilo. Postupně odkrýváte vrstvu za vrstvou temného tajemství, které obklopuje celé město a štve obyvatele proti sobě. Spolu s Bradenem bojujete proti něčemu, co ani nedokážete pojmenovat, protože prostě nevíte, co se stalo.
A do toho všeho ještě vstupují mladé hormony. Trey je vyloženě klasický macho s hrdinským komplexem. Ve své podstatě je vztah Trey a Bradena podobný jako v každé další YA knize. Ovšem Braden rozhodně neomdlévá, jenom co Treye uvidí, ani jen tak bezduše nebloumá městem a rozhodně se nenechává vést za ručičku. Braden je bojovník, stejně tak Trey. Proto, i když k sobě evidentně něco cítí, se častokrát dostávají do šarvátek. Prostě dva kohouti na jednom hřišti, chápeme? Až na to, že Braden je mnohem mocnější kohout :D
Celkově se mi kniha opravdu líbila a doporučila bych ji všem, kteří mají rádi yaoi... a kvalitní počtení. Jestli si myslíte, že vám bude nepříjemné číst o dvou zamilovaných klucích, tak se do knihy nepouštějte. Já bych byla ráda, kdyby podobných knih bylo i víc, protože by mohly pomoct některým dospívajícím vyznat se sami v sobě. A je jedno, jestli jde o fantasy, scifi, paranormálno... Všichni jsme lidi, kteří mají kolikrát podobné problémy.
Moc se těším na pokračování. Název Demon Eyes zní hodně zajímavě, škoda jen, že si budu muset počkat do dalšího roku.
March 21, 2016
Okay, I’m just gonna be 100% and totally upfront with my biggest “dislike” of this book. Not. Enough. Kissies. I WANT MORE KISSIES, DAMMIT. That first kiss I was just ermagerd moar, and then there were not enough of these darn kissies. A complete and totally good reason to read the second book.
As for Witch Eyes, on the whole I liked it. I liked Braden, I liked the storyline, I liked the magic. But I didn’t really love any of it, which I guess is why this is a three star read for me. If I was still doing half stars, it would definitely be a 3.5 star rating from yours truly.
I think one thing I wasn’t a big fan of was the quick movement of Braden’s relationships with everyone in Witch Eyes. You just don’t make friends that quickly! Or at least, introverted asocial people like me don’t make friends that quickly. But I don’t think your average Joe does, either. I just found myself questioning Braden’s BFF status with Jade and, to a lesser extent, Riley.
Trey. *swooning moans* He was your typical paranormal romance love interest but I’m going to admit it right now that I love the typical paranormal romance love interest. I loved the hot and cold, I loved the whiplash mood changes, I loved the protectiveness. I loved the kissies. I want to see more of Trey + Braden together, without their angstiness in the sequel, because that angstiness got in the way of so much potential for relationship development and growth (and kissies).
The storyline was pretty interesting, but I have to say that I got a little lost at times with the magic mumbo jumbo stuff. I was sitting there like: uhh what’s going on? What is that? Why is this happening? Either I wasn’t paying enough attention to detail, or there was room for improvement for the magical explanations.
I think the “reveal”-esque thing really came out of the blue. Oh yeah BTW this guy’s EVIL. Eh? Since when? And now he has to be fought and taken down etc etc. I went along with it, but I wasn’t entirely convinced by the importance.
The descriptions weren’t ace, but even so I had a pretty clear idea of what Belle Dam looked like. As for the people? I was completely making them up. All I knew was that Braden had brown hair. What about the length? What about his eyes, his skin colour? EVERYTHING ABOUT HIM. And Trey … shaggy brown hair + James Dean type sass. Okayyy, but still. I think a few more people descriptions could have gone a long way in Witch Eyes.
I am sure I’m going to continue this series because I’m interested in the storyline, among other things (*cough*kissies*cough*).
© 2015, Chiara @ Books for a Delicate Eternity . All rights reserved.
As for Witch Eyes, on the whole I liked it. I liked Braden, I liked the storyline, I liked the magic. But I didn’t really love any of it, which I guess is why this is a three star read for me. If I was still doing half stars, it would definitely be a 3.5 star rating from yours truly.
I think one thing I wasn’t a big fan of was the quick movement of Braden’s relationships with everyone in Witch Eyes. You just don’t make friends that quickly! Or at least, introverted asocial people like me don’t make friends that quickly. But I don’t think your average Joe does, either. I just found myself questioning Braden’s BFF status with Jade and, to a lesser extent, Riley.
Trey. *swooning moans* He was your typical paranormal romance love interest but I’m going to admit it right now that I love the typical paranormal romance love interest. I loved the hot and cold, I loved the whiplash mood changes, I loved the protectiveness. I loved the kissies. I want to see more of Trey + Braden together, without their angstiness in the sequel, because that angstiness got in the way of so much potential for relationship development and growth (and kissies).
The storyline was pretty interesting, but I have to say that I got a little lost at times with the magic mumbo jumbo stuff. I was sitting there like: uhh what’s going on? What is that? Why is this happening? Either I wasn’t paying enough attention to detail, or there was room for improvement for the magical explanations.
I think the “reveal”-esque thing really came out of the blue. Oh yeah BTW this guy’s EVIL. Eh? Since when? And now he has to be fought and taken down etc etc. I went along with it, but I wasn’t entirely convinced by the importance.
The descriptions weren’t ace, but even so I had a pretty clear idea of what Belle Dam looked like. As for the people? I was completely making them up. All I knew was that Braden had brown hair. What about the length? What about his eyes, his skin colour? EVERYTHING ABOUT HIM. And Trey … shaggy brown hair + James Dean type sass. Okayyy, but still. I think a few more people descriptions could have gone a long way in Witch Eyes.
I am sure I’m going to continue this series because I’m interested in the storyline, among other things (*cough*kissies*cough*).
© 2015, Chiara @ Books for a Delicate Eternity . All rights reserved.
Read
August 25, 2011Once again, being a part of the Around the World ARC Tours site came through for me because I got to read Witch Eyes early. After reading the blurb I knew I had to give it a shot because how many supernatural stories are out there written by a guy? I like reading the guy YA writers every chance I can because they always bring a different perspective to the genre. Plus the story sounded remarkably interesting.
The mystery surrounding Belle Dam is quite the ride. The entire story was laid out in such a way that I literally had no idea what was going to happen from one moment to the next and little clue to what was really going on in Belle Dam. Also, I love the name. I wish this was a real town. There’s a Tumblr account for Belle Dam and Witch Eyes with strange pictures that each tell a bit of the story in them. While they probably won’t make sense until you’ve read the book, you can get spooked and intrigued by what the pictures imply. (Some are a tad creepy, jsyk.)
Through Braden, we see the world in an entirely different way. I found every scene with Braden’s “witch eyes” in action fascinating. And when he was wearing the shades, I couldn’t help but refer to him as Scott Summers in my head. (Any time I can use a X-Men reference, I will.)
I rarely read a YA book with guy-on-guy interest, and I guess I didn’t pay that much attention to the blurb once I read about Braden’s eyes and a witch feud because somehow him falling for Trey was overlooked completely. Well, until it happened in the story. After that point, I had to keep reminding myself I was reading a guy’s POV because I’m not used to reading about a guy really looking at another guy.
Regardless, I loved Braden and Trey together. They were so cute, even though there were times I wanted to slap Trey upside the head. Ugh, that boy is clueless about several things. But there’s one scene I’ll probably always remember where they’re hiding from a nasty thing that wants to get them and they’re clinging to each other to hide in a tight spot. It was just so… I’m probably going to reveal something about me here, but I found it kind of hot. It’s a poignant moment.
Overall, the characters and the mystery drew me in and left me wanting more. I’m very much looking forward to the next book, Demon Eyes.
Witch Eyes comes out September 8th from Flux.
Reviewed at WhatchYAreading on August 15, 2011.
The mystery surrounding Belle Dam is quite the ride. The entire story was laid out in such a way that I literally had no idea what was going to happen from one moment to the next and little clue to what was really going on in Belle Dam. Also, I love the name. I wish this was a real town. There’s a Tumblr account for Belle Dam and Witch Eyes with strange pictures that each tell a bit of the story in them. While they probably won’t make sense until you’ve read the book, you can get spooked and intrigued by what the pictures imply. (Some are a tad creepy, jsyk.)
Through Braden, we see the world in an entirely different way. I found every scene with Braden’s “witch eyes” in action fascinating. And when he was wearing the shades, I couldn’t help but refer to him as Scott Summers in my head. (Any time I can use a X-Men reference, I will.)
I rarely read a YA book with guy-on-guy interest, and I guess I didn’t pay that much attention to the blurb once I read about Braden’s eyes and a witch feud because somehow him falling for Trey was overlooked completely. Well, until it happened in the story. After that point, I had to keep reminding myself I was reading a guy’s POV because I’m not used to reading about a guy really looking at another guy.
Regardless, I loved Braden and Trey together. They were so cute, even though there were times I wanted to slap Trey upside the head. Ugh, that boy is clueless about several things. But there’s one scene I’ll probably always remember where they’re hiding from a nasty thing that wants to get them and they’re clinging to each other to hide in a tight spot. It was just so… I’m probably going to reveal something about me here, but I found it kind of hot. It’s a poignant moment.
Overall, the characters and the mystery drew me in and left me wanting more. I’m very much looking forward to the next book, Demon Eyes.
Witch Eyes comes out September 8th from Flux.
Reviewed at WhatchYAreading on August 15, 2011.
December 16, 2011
3.5
I think my expectations for this book were a little bit too high. Don't get me wrong, I really liked this book, but it didn't quite blow me away like I hoped it would. The main reason I bought this book was because I rarely see YA fantasy books in the LGBT category, so I grabbed this one as soon as I heard of it. So yeah, I was a bit disappointed, but it was still a very enjoyable read.
The characters, in my opinion were great. I loved Braden, the main character, a whole lot. I liked how badass and sarcastic he was. I liked how he tried finding out what was really happening in Belle Dam, and didn't let himself be manipulated by any of the two parties involved. I also liked Trey, because although his arrogance did kind of make him look like a jackass sometimes, he does care a whole lot about Braden and tried to protect him the best he could. Together they make a great couple, and I hope everything turns out okay with them, cause the ending of the book left a cliffhanger on their relationship.
I also really liked how the author interpreted magic. I have to admit though, at first it was pretty hard for me to understand how the whole magic thing worked and how did the witches use them and all that stuff, and although I still don't understand some things, I still really liked it nonetheless.
The beginning was pretty slow, and I found myself bored at some points but I kept reading, hoping it would pick up. And it didn't take long for it to do. I liked the mystery side of it and how I couldn't figure out who I should trust and who I shouldn't. The ending did let my unsatisfied and wanting more, so I'm kinda bummed that the second book only comes out in Fall 2012. I'll make sure to grab it as soon as it comes out.
I think my expectations for this book were a little bit too high. Don't get me wrong, I really liked this book, but it didn't quite blow me away like I hoped it would. The main reason I bought this book was because I rarely see YA fantasy books in the LGBT category, so I grabbed this one as soon as I heard of it. So yeah, I was a bit disappointed, but it was still a very enjoyable read.
The characters, in my opinion were great. I loved Braden, the main character, a whole lot. I liked how badass and sarcastic he was. I liked how he tried finding out what was really happening in Belle Dam, and didn't let himself be manipulated by any of the two parties involved. I also liked Trey, because although his arrogance did kind of make him look like a jackass sometimes, he does care a whole lot about Braden and tried to protect him the best he could. Together they make a great couple, and I hope everything turns out okay with them, cause the ending of the book left a cliffhanger on their relationship.
I also really liked how the author interpreted magic. I have to admit though, at first it was pretty hard for me to understand how the whole magic thing worked and how did the witches use them and all that stuff, and although I still don't understand some things, I still really liked it nonetheless.
The beginning was pretty slow, and I found myself bored at some points but I kept reading, hoping it would pick up. And it didn't take long for it to do. I liked the mystery side of it and how I couldn't figure out who I should trust and who I shouldn't. The ending did let my unsatisfied and wanting more, so I'm kinda bummed that the second book only comes out in Fall 2012. I'll make sure to grab it as soon as it comes out.
May 13, 2020
So this is really good. Like, really.
I mean, in and of itself it's a pretty average YA novel. Boy has a special power and a special destiny, comes to town and spends the rest of the book attempting to find the truth of his destiny while navigating a new romantic interest with an inexplicable draw on him, who is probably the Juliet to his Romeo. Witch Eyes being exceptional in that Braden's love interest is a dude.
And, you know, this is how you write gay people, world, you write them as people. If Braden or Trey were female, the story would be completely unchanged-- there would just be a few moments of homophobic microaggression removed from the book. Braden would still make the friends he makes, he would still hang out with the people he hangs out with, he would be treated precisely the same by the narrator were he straight. I identify as homoromantic, and let me tell you it is so amazing to see a gay protagonist in a story that is not about them being gay.
This is a fairly unremarkable book with that one shining piece of the characters that has guaranteed it a purchase and the purchase of its sequels. Take note, editors and authors. Take note.
I mean, in and of itself it's a pretty average YA novel. Boy has a special power and a special destiny, comes to town and spends the rest of the book attempting to find the truth of his destiny while navigating a new romantic interest with an inexplicable draw on him, who is probably the Juliet to his Romeo. Witch Eyes being exceptional in that Braden's love interest is a dude.
And, you know, this is how you write gay people, world, you write them as people. If Braden or Trey were female, the story would be completely unchanged-- there would just be a few moments of homophobic microaggression removed from the book. Braden would still make the friends he makes, he would still hang out with the people he hangs out with, he would be treated precisely the same by the narrator were he straight. I identify as homoromantic, and let me tell you it is so amazing to see a gay protagonist in a story that is not about them being gay.
This is a fairly unremarkable book with that one shining piece of the characters that has guaranteed it a purchase and the purchase of its sequels. Take note, editors and authors. Take note.
June 10, 2011
Some writers are so adept at spinning a lush, evocative setting that you can’t help but want to stroll the streets and neighbourhoods where their stories take place—even when you’re not entirely sure you’d come away unscathed. After I read Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles, I wanted to hop a plane to New Orleans. After I read Scott Tracey’s Witch Eyes, I wanted to ride a bus into Belle Dam.
Setting aside, I just loved the heck out of the book. Braden was a great main character and it was refreshing to read a paranormal story told from the male PoV. The descriptions of Braden’s abilities were awesome and I really liked Braden’s love interest, Trey, and The Capulet and Montague odds that were stacked against the two of them.
Setting aside, I just loved the heck out of the book. Braden was a great main character and it was refreshing to read a paranormal story told from the male PoV. The descriptions of Braden’s abilities were awesome and I really liked Braden’s love interest, Trey, and The Capulet and Montague odds that were stacked against the two of them.
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September 6, 2014I really enjoyed this book. Feuding witch families, star-crossed gay male couple, hellhounds, shape shifters, mysterious town, etc. What's not to like?
The main character, Braden, had a humorous and interesting voice ("Angst was a bitch to get out of leather," LOL) and the story moves ahead at a brisk pace, with enough twists and turns to hold reader interest until the end.
There's enough resolution in this novel to satisfy, while at the same time leaving the door open for future installments.
I also love that the novel embraces diversity by having a gay male protagonist and love interest, and treats it as matter of fact. We need more books like this!
I definitely Give a "Bel-Dam(n)" and will be looking forward to the next entry in this series.
The main character, Braden, had a humorous and interesting voice ("Angst was a bitch to get out of leather," LOL) and the story moves ahead at a brisk pace, with enough twists and turns to hold reader interest until the end.
There's enough resolution in this novel to satisfy, while at the same time leaving the door open for future installments.
I also love that the novel embraces diversity by having a gay male protagonist and love interest, and treats it as matter of fact. We need more books like this!
I definitely Give a "Bel-Dam(n)" and will be looking forward to the next entry in this series.
September 16, 2011
Truly well developed, interesting story. With well created characters, and the story developed with so much mystery, you don't know who is good or who is bad or even fishy between them. The story pulled me into instantly. There was no boring moment in this plot. I will definitely look forward to next part in this series. DEFINITELY HIGHLY Recommended book!!
March 16, 2012
I really liked the story dont get me wrong but the ending just petered out, I am left with a feeling of that was it?
I know there will be a next one and I will read it but I hope it flows like the begining of this book and not feel forced togheter like the end.
I know there will be a next one and I will read it but I hope it flows like the begining of this book and not feel forced togheter like the end.
February 6, 2019
I feel like I might be overrating this book: but I can’t help it, I have a bit of a soft spot for it.
I want to try to keep this review short and sweet. First, to describe what I enjoy: this is a gay paranormal YA novel. That is within the exact, ah, sub -genre (?) that I want to write in myself. It’s so hard not to appreciate this book on that fact alone — this novel was actually the first that I ever saw on a physical shelf in a store that combined gay representation with paranormal YA. As a queer reader, I was ecstatic.
Otherwise, I enjoyed the sort of bittersweetness and longing that comes at the end of this novel, in a playground, where the main characters embrace. There’s something very fragile and sad about that moment; I felt it captured the ‘Romeo & Juliet’ feel of the novel well.
Unfortunately, in my very humble opinion, I really have more that I struggled with than I liked. I have three short reasons why: grammar, plot, and the love interest ‘Trey.’
Grammar: I am not usually one to complain about grammar. As long as I can immerse myself in the story, I do not mind if I spot an errant misspelling or mistake, particularly if the novel has a more indie-feel to it. Writing an entire novel is a hefty feat, after all; there’s bound to be some missteps, especially if you’re working with limited resources. However, this book has a fair amount of errors, more than I usually run into in a published book, and it definitely takes you out of the story a bit.
Plot: I could probably deal with the grammar if the plot was more engaging. As I stated earlier, I really love the concept of this book. I love witches, and gay characters, and the ‘Romeo & Juliet’ undertones. Unfortunately, I felt that the novel had the characters spending more time just standing around talking or arguing or bantering than showing actual magic. They talk of magic — but we only have two moments in the novel where we face magical threats: a brief plot line with a hell hound, and the climax. I wanted the story to feel more mystical, paranormal.
Some elements of the plot were also a little confusing to me. First of all, it’s unclear how many people know that witches exist. Are witches a secret underground society, like Harry Potter, or does everyone in town know about them?
The main character runs away from home, into a prestigious town where his family hails from, and a lawyer immediately sets him up in a hotel and enrolls him in school. We find out that this lawyer works for Braden’s estranged father, but wouldn’t Braden ask how they knew he was coming? Or why they are being so helpful? From what I remember, he did not even know immediately that this lawyer was working for his father.
The whole novel also centers on the concept of these feuding witch families in this old town — but we do not know why they are feuding. Nor does Braden really ask about it. We just know that the families don’t like each other: that’s it. I can accept the ‘we have been fighting for so many generations that we don’t remember why we are fighting’ plotline, but you have to have one of the characters say this. And have Braden ask about it a little more. It would make the feud that much more emotional and engaging if we had context.
Trey: Oh, Trey. The love interest. I believe the author’s intention was to make him endearingly ‘overprotective’ — but he came across as very controlling to me. There’s a moment where he wants to give the main character a lift in his car. The main character declines. Trey insists, claiming it’s going to rain soon. Braden declines again. Trey literally gets out of his car and essentially orders Braden to get into his car.
Now, no matter how genuine your intention, or how silly the other person’s decision is, you never force someone to do what you want them to do. It felt like Trey needed to control Braden’s actions, make him do what HE wanted him to do. This behavior continues throughout the book: he wants Braden to meet his mother and join their side of the feud. Braden says no. Trey meets up with him and then brings him to meet his mother under the guise of doing an ‘errand.’ This is manipulative behavior — tricking Braden to do what you want him to do.
I also have to admit that their relationship was a tad rushed. They developed some intense feelings pretty quickly given that they only knew each other for about two weeks.
If I’m honest with myself, I should probably give this novel a two-star rating. I just have an unfair bias towards the concept. Still, there’s something endearing about Braden’s mixture of insecurity and snark. I can’t say that I won’t dip into the next few in hopes that the series gets better.
I want to try to keep this review short and sweet. First, to describe what I enjoy: this is a gay paranormal YA novel. That is within the exact, ah, sub -genre (?) that I want to write in myself. It’s so hard not to appreciate this book on that fact alone — this novel was actually the first that I ever saw on a physical shelf in a store that combined gay representation with paranormal YA. As a queer reader, I was ecstatic.
Otherwise, I enjoyed the sort of bittersweetness and longing that comes at the end of this novel, in a playground, where the main characters embrace. There’s something very fragile and sad about that moment; I felt it captured the ‘Romeo & Juliet’ feel of the novel well.
Unfortunately, in my very humble opinion, I really have more that I struggled with than I liked. I have three short reasons why: grammar, plot, and the love interest ‘Trey.’
Grammar: I am not usually one to complain about grammar. As long as I can immerse myself in the story, I do not mind if I spot an errant misspelling or mistake, particularly if the novel has a more indie-feel to it. Writing an entire novel is a hefty feat, after all; there’s bound to be some missteps, especially if you’re working with limited resources. However, this book has a fair amount of errors, more than I usually run into in a published book, and it definitely takes you out of the story a bit.
Plot: I could probably deal with the grammar if the plot was more engaging. As I stated earlier, I really love the concept of this book. I love witches, and gay characters, and the ‘Romeo & Juliet’ undertones. Unfortunately, I felt that the novel had the characters spending more time just standing around talking or arguing or bantering than showing actual magic. They talk of magic — but we only have two moments in the novel where we face magical threats: a brief plot line with a hell hound, and the climax. I wanted the story to feel more mystical, paranormal.
Some elements of the plot were also a little confusing to me. First of all, it’s unclear how many people know that witches exist. Are witches a secret underground society, like Harry Potter, or does everyone in town know about them?
The main character runs away from home, into a prestigious town where his family hails from, and a lawyer immediately sets him up in a hotel and enrolls him in school. We find out that this lawyer works for Braden’s estranged father, but wouldn’t Braden ask how they knew he was coming? Or why they are being so helpful? From what I remember, he did not even know immediately that this lawyer was working for his father.
The whole novel also centers on the concept of these feuding witch families in this old town — but we do not know why they are feuding. Nor does Braden really ask about it. We just know that the families don’t like each other: that’s it. I can accept the ‘we have been fighting for so many generations that we don’t remember why we are fighting’ plotline, but you have to have one of the characters say this. And have Braden ask about it a little more. It would make the feud that much more emotional and engaging if we had context.
Trey: Oh, Trey. The love interest. I believe the author’s intention was to make him endearingly ‘overprotective’ — but he came across as very controlling to me. There’s a moment where he wants to give the main character a lift in his car. The main character declines. Trey insists, claiming it’s going to rain soon. Braden declines again. Trey literally gets out of his car and essentially orders Braden to get into his car.
Now, no matter how genuine your intention, or how silly the other person’s decision is, you never force someone to do what you want them to do. It felt like Trey needed to control Braden’s actions, make him do what HE wanted him to do. This behavior continues throughout the book: he wants Braden to meet his mother and join their side of the feud. Braden says no. Trey meets up with him and then brings him to meet his mother under the guise of doing an ‘errand.’ This is manipulative behavior — tricking Braden to do what you want him to do.
I also have to admit that their relationship was a tad rushed. They developed some intense feelings pretty quickly given that they only knew each other for about two weeks.
If I’m honest with myself, I should probably give this novel a two-star rating. I just have an unfair bias towards the concept. Still, there’s something endearing about Braden’s mixture of insecurity and snark. I can’t say that I won’t dip into the next few in hopes that the series gets better.
May 26, 2022
3.5⭐️
In Witch Eyes, Scott Tracey envisions a bizarre world, one both modern and mystical. The quaint town of Belle Dam houses more than a few dark secrets, but the longstanding feud between the two reigning families isn't one of them -- everyone in the town is caught up in the fallout. Their feud echoes the Montagues and Capulets in its absurdity and destructive power, and the leaders of both factions will take down anyone who stands in their way. This world of magic and mystery, blood feuds and hell hounds, is a fascinating one and something I would have liked to see further developed in the novel. The hero, Braden, is blessed (or cursed) with the mysterious Witch Eyes, an ability only one other person has possessed -- a woman apparently lost to history. The complex backstory that led to this point in the Belle Dam feud seemed fragmented at times, and though readers can get the gist of what they need to know, the reading experience would have been richer and smoother if they hadn't had to work so hard.
Nonetheless, Witch Eyes is an exciting novel. Readers will jump from suspect to suspect alongside Braden -- it's impossible to tell who to trust in this war-torn town -- and will never see the final dizzying revelation coming. Speaking of Braden, he's a real gem. Sweet and snarky, shy but brilliantly powerful, readers will fall in love with his wry charm from the very beginning. His relationship with Trey is a tumultuous one, for more reasons than just the obvious star-crossed issues. Trey's family is more than a little dysfunctional, but unlike Braden, he can't see it. His willful blindness can be frustrating, as is his constant impulse to control and protect Braden. But Braden isn't the kind of guy to take overwrought machismo sitting down, and his rebellions against Trey's domineering tendencies are winning (many YA protagonists could stand to take a page from his book). Their hesitant, forbidden romance is tantalizing and sweet, not to mention fraught. Their highs and lows will keep readers on their toes, and it's impossible not to cheer for their success against the overwhelming odds.
Though the novel contains all the key ingredients for success, at times it lacked depth. The details of this intriguing world could be fleshed out, and the intricate web of history and deception reinforced to support the stellar cast of characters that will have no trouble winning readers' hearts.
In Witch Eyes, Scott Tracey envisions a bizarre world, one both modern and mystical. The quaint town of Belle Dam houses more than a few dark secrets, but the longstanding feud between the two reigning families isn't one of them -- everyone in the town is caught up in the fallout. Their feud echoes the Montagues and Capulets in its absurdity and destructive power, and the leaders of both factions will take down anyone who stands in their way. This world of magic and mystery, blood feuds and hell hounds, is a fascinating one and something I would have liked to see further developed in the novel. The hero, Braden, is blessed (or cursed) with the mysterious Witch Eyes, an ability only one other person has possessed -- a woman apparently lost to history. The complex backstory that led to this point in the Belle Dam feud seemed fragmented at times, and though readers can get the gist of what they need to know, the reading experience would have been richer and smoother if they hadn't had to work so hard.
Nonetheless, Witch Eyes is an exciting novel. Readers will jump from suspect to suspect alongside Braden -- it's impossible to tell who to trust in this war-torn town -- and will never see the final dizzying revelation coming. Speaking of Braden, he's a real gem. Sweet and snarky, shy but brilliantly powerful, readers will fall in love with his wry charm from the very beginning. His relationship with Trey is a tumultuous one, for more reasons than just the obvious star-crossed issues. Trey's family is more than a little dysfunctional, but unlike Braden, he can't see it. His willful blindness can be frustrating, as is his constant impulse to control and protect Braden. But Braden isn't the kind of guy to take overwrought machismo sitting down, and his rebellions against Trey's domineering tendencies are winning (many YA protagonists could stand to take a page from his book). Their hesitant, forbidden romance is tantalizing and sweet, not to mention fraught. Their highs and lows will keep readers on their toes, and it's impossible not to cheer for their success against the overwhelming odds.
Though the novel contains all the key ingredients for success, at times it lacked depth. The details of this intriguing world could be fleshed out, and the intricate web of history and deception reinforced to support the stellar cast of characters that will have no trouble winning readers' hearts.
September 11, 2018
To me, it felt like this story was written with almost a paranormal formula in mind, but that's likely me reading too many paranormal books.
Witch Eyes is perfect if you want a story where family plays a huge role. Also great if you want a story about romance between teenage boys. And the main character is pretty funny.
Witch Eyes is perfect if you want a story where family plays a huge role. Also great if you want a story about romance between teenage boys. And the main character is pretty funny.
June 28, 2017
That is just what I have been looking for!
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