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Called Upon
Kaitlin, the social pariah of her high school, is so relieved to have made friends at Camp Overlook—and time have caught the attention of a real, live, honest-to-goodness boy—that she is willing to look past the camp’s anomalies: creepy grey-eyed counselors, 24 hour video surveillance, and campers falling ill and then disappearing quietly into the night.
But when Kaitlin begins feeling strange symptoms herself, she can no longer pretend that Overlook is a run-of-the-mill summer camp. She and her new friend must race to solve the mystery of Camp Overlook, even if it means facing some difficult truths and uncovering some painful family secrets, before she is the next camper to vanish.
But when Kaitlin begins feeling strange symptoms herself, she can no longer pretend that Overlook is a run-of-the-mill summer camp. She and her new friend must race to solve the mystery of Camp Overlook, even if it means facing some difficult truths and uncovering some painful family secrets, before she is the next camper to vanish.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2023
10 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
December 30, 2020
This book walks the delicate tightrope between being tender, suspenseful, and hilarious. Kaitlin is a relatable teenager, thrust into a wild situation that I did not see coming. Honestly, I knew I’d like the book when I read a few pages—the author’s tone is light and real. So I was pretty shocked by the twist and the suspense. It’s a page turner for adults, but I would have flown through it even faster as a teenager.
March 5, 2021
When most people say 'summer camp read,' I get the image of happy-go-lucky kids roasting marshmallows 24/7. This book was so much more than the typical summer camp read. It was full of thrills and suspense with a dash of romance on the side.
I really appreciated the character development, especially at the beginning of the story. Each character had their own distinct personality and I liked seeing all the friendships form.
Also the 3 POVS! Quite often, I find multiple perspectives annoying and confusing. Not so with this one! I was always looking forward to the next POV so I could try and fit the pieces together.
The plot twists kept me reading and I couldn't put it down.
If you liked Michael Vey, you're sure to love this one.
*I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts were my own and a positive review was not required.
I really appreciated the character development, especially at the beginning of the story. Each character had their own distinct personality and I liked seeing all the friendships form.
Also the 3 POVS! Quite often, I find multiple perspectives annoying and confusing. Not so with this one! I was always looking forward to the next POV so I could try and fit the pieces together.
The plot twists kept me reading and I couldn't put it down.
If you liked Michael Vey, you're sure to love this one.
*I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts were my own and a positive review was not required.
September 30, 2025
3.5/5 stars
The first page gripped me. Had me in a chokehold. Like what do you MEAN lifeless body?! I must know.
And then we were taken on a whirlwind of a summer experience with 15 year old Kaitlin. She went through all the “normal” teen girl feelings & emotions…until she was “called upon” and her life changed DRASTICALLY!
While we spend the majority of the book in Kaitlin’s POV, spending the summer with her, we also got to know Ashley & Parker. We got snippets of their characters & situations where you were rooting for them to win as the “good guys” - and trying to figure out how three seemingly unrelated teens were truly connected. And then…their connections were revealed. And that is when the floodgates opened and life got CRAZY!
The ending was set up for more books in my opinion, and I was definitely a little dissatisfied with the build up of action for the ending we got. (Especially since it doesn’t seem like more books are in the works) If the book was a little longer and then we got an actual ending, or if more books were slated I’d be happy because it was an interesting idea and I thought was executed well. I was invested in the characters and all 3 POVs read as different voices.
It was definitely a YA book, and the characters read a young teens.
The book was not what I would consider Christian, though there were a few mentions of God and prayer in passing but it was never talked about deeper. It was relatively clean with just 2 “curse” words, but no explicit sexual references/scenes. It’s does deal with darker themes as it is classified as a “thriller/suspense”. I would say it would be better for older YA depending on their maturity & parent’s choices.
Overall it was a well written book, that did have me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next twist to come. If you need a “summer camp fire pit scary story” type book this would be a great pick to throw on your TBR.
3.5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
The first page gripped me. Had me in a chokehold. Like what do you MEAN lifeless body?! I must know.
And then we were taken on a whirlwind of a summer experience with 15 year old Kaitlin. She went through all the “normal” teen girl feelings & emotions…until she was “called upon” and her life changed DRASTICALLY!
While we spend the majority of the book in Kaitlin’s POV, spending the summer with her, we also got to know Ashley & Parker. We got snippets of their characters & situations where you were rooting for them to win as the “good guys” - and trying to figure out how three seemingly unrelated teens were truly connected. And then…their connections were revealed. And that is when the floodgates opened and life got CRAZY!
The ending was set up for more books in my opinion, and I was definitely a little dissatisfied with the build up of action for the ending we got. (Especially since it doesn’t seem like more books are in the works) If the book was a little longer and then we got an actual ending, or if more books were slated I’d be happy because it was an interesting idea and I thought was executed well. I was invested in the characters and all 3 POVs read as different voices.
It was definitely a YA book, and the characters read a young teens.
The book was not what I would consider Christian, though there were a few mentions of God and prayer in passing but it was never talked about deeper. It was relatively clean with just 2 “curse” words, but no explicit sexual references/scenes. It’s does deal with darker themes as it is classified as a “thriller/suspense”. I would say it would be better for older YA depending on their maturity & parent’s choices.
Overall it was a well written book, that did have me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next twist to come. If you need a “summer camp fire pit scary story” type book this would be a great pick to throw on your TBR.
3.5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
October 28, 2020
I absolutely LOVED IT! It was exceptional and I couldn't stop reading it. I love Bethany's writing and I hope she will write more. It was such a page turner that I finished it in four or five days! I was so sad when I finished it because I hoped that the thrill wouldn't end. This book definitely deserves five stars.
January 29, 2024
The plot twists were plot twisting.
The main problem was saying “…er…” every other line😂
•
Thanks to Bethany Lee for visiting my Creative Writing class!
The main problem was saying “…er…” every other line😂
•
Thanks to Bethany Lee for visiting my Creative Writing class!
January 21, 2021
Great YA book with lots of twists and turns! Really unique story with plenty of reminders of your awkward teenage encounters! Loved it.
March 24, 2021
I couldn't love this book more, and only part of that reason is because I am so stinking proud of my sister for writing it. I love how the book conveys the humor and awkwardness of the teenage inner-self. Add to that the page-turner plot, and you get a truly enjoyable read. I recommend this book for young adults and adults who enjoy YA literature.
January 28, 2021
Loved this book. Not knowing what it was about I was not sure what to expect, but once I really got into I could not put it down. I really connected with the characters, and with the great descriptive writing I felt like I was there with them. There were a lot of plot twists that you would never expect. I would highly recommend this to book, and I sure hope there is a sequel.
December 31, 2020
Great young adult fiction book. Some great twist and turns throughout the book. Thoroughly enjoyed the read.
March 1, 2021
For such a short book it took an awhile long while to finish. This book was just not for me. It was simple, it was a whole lot of dialogue (while not having much substance), and had one dimensional characters. It only got a 2 star instead of a 1 because I can see someone enjoying this book and I did at least finish it.
Problem number one and probably the most annoying thing out of the book and possibly any book I will ever read: the character Sierra using the word “y’all”. Y’all is used to address multiple people in a group setting, in this books case it is used to address one person. And it drove me insane. It was so very distracting and so so wrong.
Problem number two: “er, um, uhhhh” When some uses these filler words in real life it is bad enough. When an author puts them in the book and has the character openly admit they use those words on purpose? God awful. I cringed every time and not in a sympathetic way.
The plot does have potential and I can see it being good. In this case it just does nothing for me. I had to force myself to finish it and in the end there was no pay off. I definitely will not be reading the sequel which is hinted at the end.
Problem number one and probably the most annoying thing out of the book and possibly any book I will ever read: the character Sierra using the word “y’all”. Y’all is used to address multiple people in a group setting, in this books case it is used to address one person. And it drove me insane. It was so very distracting and so so wrong.
Problem number two: “er, um, uhhhh” When some uses these filler words in real life it is bad enough. When an author puts them in the book and has the character openly admit they use those words on purpose? God awful. I cringed every time and not in a sympathetic way.
The plot does have potential and I can see it being good. In this case it just does nothing for me. I had to force myself to finish it and in the end there was no pay off. I definitely will not be reading the sequel which is hinted at the end.
October 28, 2020
This is an absolute page turner with lovable and relatable characters. The teen relationships warmed my heart and I found myself craving a hike, a toasted marshmallow, and some campfire cameraderie. The scary, sweet, and funny balance each other so well—and it is really scary! My hands were sweating at some key moments! I really hope there is a sequel and soon!
April 3, 2021
Y’all - the minute I saw this beautiful book on @adventurous.bookworm’s feed, I knew I wanted to read it! Thank you so much to @bethanyrlee81 for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced reader’s copy!
Called Upon is unique and exciting, with twists and turns that will keep readers guessing. Camp Overlook seems like a normal summer camp, but it becomes clear something more sinister may lurk below the surface.
With three point-of-views, Called Upon combines different narratives into one complete and complex story. Each character is different, but Claire and Max shone through as the most distinct and interesting personalities.
Use the code CALLEDUPON60 to get 60% your purchases at bethanylee.com! Check the link in my bio to her website AND read my full review on my blog!
Called Upon is unique and exciting, with twists and turns that will keep readers guessing. Camp Overlook seems like a normal summer camp, but it becomes clear something more sinister may lurk below the surface.
With three point-of-views, Called Upon combines different narratives into one complete and complex story. Each character is different, but Claire and Max shone through as the most distinct and interesting personalities.
Use the code CALLEDUPON60 to get 60% your purchases at bethanylee.com! Check the link in my bio to her website AND read my full review on my blog!
December 30, 2020
This is my daughter's favorite young adult novel. I bought the book for myself but she stole it from me before I could start it and is now reading it for the second time. She loved the suspense and thrill of it and found the teenage experiences to be so fun, funny and relatable. Can't wait to hear more from Bethany Lee!
dnf
November 21, 2023DNF right away. Just wasn't feeling it. Might give it a try again later down the road.
January 23, 2024
I enjoyed this overall. The mystery certainly kept me reading and the way the three storylines came together was interesting. The first half is a little slow and some of the writing is a little overwrought. There are some descriptions that are so flowery or try too hard. The last half picks up and the writing feels a bit smoother.
I enjoyed this overall. The mystery certainly kept me reading and the way the three storylines came together was interesting. The first half is a little slow and some of the writing is a little overwrought. There are some descriptions that are so flowery or try too hard. The last half picks up and the writing feels a bit smoother.
The opening scene with Kaitlin and her mom at the pizza place made it hard for me to want to keep going. I found it really hard to believe that her bully would stick gum in her hair in the middle of a diner practically right in front of Kaitlin's mom. Bullies like she is portrayed are usually really good at putting up a "nice" front in front of adults. I also find it hard to believe that this super protective mom would have had such a complete non-reaction. I also was rolling my eyes at the "why would any guy be interested in me I'm a total train wreck and not pretty but actually I'm gorgeous and all of the boys at camp want to date me" trope. I understand the "incident" was pretty bad and would have led to some of the bullying at school and some of Kaitlin's insecurities. But the trope was just overdone with super extremes in Kaitlin's personality and in the situation.
I enjoyed this overall. The mystery certainly kept me reading and the way the three storylines came together was interesting. The first half is a little slow and some of the writing is a little overwrought. There are some descriptions that are so flowery or try too hard. The last half picks up and the writing feels a bit smoother.
The opening scene with Kaitlin and her mom at the pizza place made it hard for me to want to keep going. I found it really hard to believe that her bully would stick gum in her hair in the middle of a diner practically right in front of Kaitlin's mom. Bullies like she is portrayed are usually really good at putting up a "nice" front in front of adults. I also find it hard to believe that this super protective mom would have had such a complete non-reaction. I also was rolling my eyes at the "why would any guy be interested in me I'm a total train wreck and not pretty but actually I'm gorgeous and all of the boys at camp want to date me" trope. I understand the "incident" was pretty bad and would have led to some of the bullying at school and some of Kaitlin's insecurities. But the trope was just overdone with super extremes in Kaitlin's personality and in the situation.
December 12, 2020
I can’t give this book enough praise. I LOVED it. It was a fast, easy read with a driving, thrilling plot line with interesting and well-developed characters. But the thing I loved the most was the witty and honest dialogue and stream of thought and silliness that feels oh-so-important and sometimes painful to every teenager, that it made me laugh out loud many, many times (and I’m not the laugh-out-loud type). It made me remember how difficult and funny and fun it is to be a teenager and miss it (but yet also be so thankful it’s over!) The many unexpected twists and turns, anxiety over budding romance, thrill of action and mostly the hilarious prose of this book made me remember all those feelings and want to read it again and again. I HIGHLY recommend this to any tween/teen/YA/Adult and can’t wait for the next one!
July 9, 2021
WHOA!!!!! THIS WAS AWESOME!!!
I think it may be the author’s first published book too!!!
What a complete and total rollercoaster ride!! There were so many twists and turns, mysteries, surprises, and I loved every minute of it!!! I felt like I was watching a movie!!! I definitely think this needs to be a movie … FOR SURE!!!!
I loved the characters!!! I didn’t always know what to expect from them, and sometimes they surprised me. But the characters were written so well!!
Loved, Loved, Loved this so much!!! I will definitely be watching for what Bethany Lee writes next!! Highly recommended!!!!
I think it may be the author’s first published book too!!!
What a complete and total rollercoaster ride!! There were so many twists and turns, mysteries, surprises, and I loved every minute of it!!! I felt like I was watching a movie!!! I definitely think this needs to be a movie … FOR SURE!!!!
I loved the characters!!! I didn’t always know what to expect from them, and sometimes they surprised me. But the characters were written so well!!
Loved, Loved, Loved this so much!!! I will definitely be watching for what Bethany Lee writes next!! Highly recommended!!!!
March 30, 2021
A well written gem by a new author!
The book gives an intriguing page turning dark introduction that evolves into a fun yet mysterious summer camp for teens. Much of the story is set at Camp Overlook in Colorado (seems the author is a fan of SK!). Where the teens have a great time hanging out, being treated like royalty, fun & games along with some classes. But something is not as it seems in the all too perfect camp. Some of the campers get sick and mysteriously disappear in the night and some of the staff are entirely too nice while others are creepy eyed and cold. The story is told from the POV of three teens and the more it progresses the Creepy factor goes up along with the Mystery, a Psychological Thriller. By the way it ended I am hoping it is the first in a series but could still be read as a Standalone even though I doubt you'll want to stop there if the story continues in the future.
The book gives an intriguing page turning dark introduction that evolves into a fun yet mysterious summer camp for teens. Much of the story is set at Camp Overlook in Colorado (seems the author is a fan of SK!). Where the teens have a great time hanging out, being treated like royalty, fun & games along with some classes. But something is not as it seems in the all too perfect camp. Some of the campers get sick and mysteriously disappear in the night and some of the staff are entirely too nice while others are creepy eyed and cold. The story is told from the POV of three teens and the more it progresses the Creepy factor goes up along with the Mystery, a Psychological Thriller. By the way it ended I am hoping it is the first in a series but could still be read as a Standalone even though I doubt you'll want to stop there if the story continues in the future.
April 30, 2021
My full review can be found on the Epilie Aspie Chick blog!
This book really nails the creep factor in all the best ways. If you're looking for a Young Adult book that gives you all the horror movie vibes, this is the one for you. The summary really is only a tip of the story iceberg that leaves your jaw dropped by the end.
This book really nails the creep factor in all the best ways. If you're looking for a Young Adult book that gives you all the horror movie vibes, this is the one for you. The summary really is only a tip of the story iceberg that leaves your jaw dropped by the end.
Read
December 31, 2020I love a clean book that still has suspense, mystery and meaningful themes. This book has it all and is perfectly done. The characters are relatable and interesting. I'm not a huge reader. Sometimes it takes me a month to read a book or I never even finish, but this book I read in 2 days. I loved it so much that I bought 2 more copies as gifts.
February 22, 2021
I loved this book, wickedly good. Murder mystery, twins, secrets, Kaitlin was a a high school student but not liked, Her mother sent to a camp overlook nestled in the woods, things were wonderful at first, people got sick, people disappearing in the night. What could be happening? What secrets does Ashley the mother hold? You will love this book fast paced enjoy
March 24, 2021
Bethany Lee perfectly captures the psyche of a teenager in this well-written young adult thriller. Desperately wanting to belong, fearful of making a misstep, Called Upon is the perfect setting for teenagers to put their most fearless step forward when everything around them is mysterious and creepy. The characters are vividly portrayed and the antics are...well...gross as every good antic at summer camp should be.
March 25, 2021
This was an awesome read. I loved the action, and the suspense. It was a clean read, with no rough language. The main character was completely relatable with the high school girl issues. I had my own "incident" when I was in 7th grade. This book grabbed hold of you from the first chapter and didn't let you go till you finished reading it. I can't wait till the next book comes out. Well Done Ms Bethany!!
March 31, 2021
I highly recommend Called Upon as a quick-read, entertaining, and thought-provoking glimpse back into the past for adults and a great, relevant read for teens. It explores themes of self-worth, friendship, and love in a refreshingly way that made me want to be a better person. I felt like being more careful how I judged others, and I wanted to have more say in my life about what I choose to do with it. I'm excited for my one-day teens to have a book that illustrates how romantic relationships based solely on sexual attraction are not nearly as worthwhile as ones based on mutual respect, friendship, AND sexual attraction. Also, I found it very entertaining to read.
December 29, 2020
Best book I've read in a LONG time!
Oh my goodness! I consider this book one of the best purchases I made in 2020! This book draws you in and keeps you reading until the very last page. And wanting more from the author! It is a clean, fun and intriguing! You won't regret buying this book!
Oh my goodness! I consider this book one of the best purchases I made in 2020! This book draws you in and keeps you reading until the very last page. And wanting more from the author! It is a clean, fun and intriguing! You won't regret buying this book!
December 30, 2020
I really liked this book! It’s suspenseful, fun, and mysterious. 5/5!
March 20, 2021
This book is a masterpiece. I love the writting style. It's funny, witty and it just flows with ease.
The characters are hilarious and well developed. They are very likable. Plot is entertaining and thrilling. So much is happening and with such a speed, that the reader doesn't have time to stop. Because after each chapter you just need to know, what happens next. This book is addiction. You just read it in one sitting. That's how good it is. It is thrilling and entertaining novel.
And the cover is just stunning.
This novel is wonderful and deserves all the praise in the world.
My question is... Will there be a sequel?
This book can be enjoyed by YA and adults alike.
The characters are hilarious and well developed. They are very likable. Plot is entertaining and thrilling. So much is happening and with such a speed, that the reader doesn't have time to stop. Because after each chapter you just need to know, what happens next. This book is addiction. You just read it in one sitting. That's how good it is. It is thrilling and entertaining novel.
And the cover is just stunning.
This novel is wonderful and deserves all the praise in the world.
My question is... Will there be a sequel?
This book can be enjoyed by YA and adults alike.
March 22, 2021
This book was SO much fun! It is a perfectly thrilling mix of creepy summer camp going ons, the drama of messy teen friendships, with a cute dash of young romance! Loved it! Can't wait to read the next book!
March 23, 2021
What a wild ride! I loved the suspense of this book and couldn't stop thinking about it when I had to put it down!
December 31, 2020
Warning- this is one of those books that will leave you captivated and unable to do anything else until you’ve turned the last page. You’ve been warned!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews