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OLIVER TWISTED
“FLESH, the woe-begotten moaned at Oliver, baring teeth which were ragged and black.
“FLESH,” came another moan, and he turned to see two more woe-begottens behind. They began to shuffle towards him, barefoot – toes blue from cold, arms outstretched.
The world according to Oliver Twisted is simple. Vampyres feed on the defenceless. Orphans are sacrificed to hungry gods. And if a woe-begotten catches your scent it will hunt you for ever. When a talking corpse reveals that Oliver will find his destiny in London, he sets out to seek the truth. Even if it means losing his soul.
“FLESH,” came another moan, and he turned to see two more woe-begottens behind. They began to shuffle towards him, barefoot – toes blue from cold, arms outstretched.
The world according to Oliver Twisted is simple. Vampyres feed on the defenceless. Orphans are sacrificed to hungry gods. And if a woe-begotten catches your scent it will hunt you for ever. When a talking corpse reveals that Oliver will find his destiny in London, he sets out to seek the truth. Even if it means losing his soul.
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First published February 6, 2012
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About the author
J.D. Sharpe
2 books13 followersJD Sharpe grew up in London, went to Oxford University, and for a whole summer thought about becoming a police officer and so worked at New Scotland Yard. JD finally decided that writing horror stories would be far more exciting, and creating villains much more fun than actually capturing them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 9, 2012
I am not usually tempted by books of this type - an idea taken from a classic book, but changed by a new author, adding new ideas. However, I was glad to see that this wasn't the original work with some new parts stuck in, but instead it was reworked and retold in a very original manner by an author who obviously loved the original characters.
As many of you will know, it was the bicentenary of the birth of Charles Dickens this week, and so I thought, although it's not a traditional work of his, but rather a modern reworking, I'd pick up Oliver Twisted and see how it was. With it's great foundation and it's modern ideas, this was a fun read. Ashamedly, I haven't read Oliver Twist, but of course I am aware of the basic aspects of the story from other media, like most. From the altered name of this novel and it's very apt tagline 'Please, I want some gore', I knew that this was going to be a bit different from the original!
Our new story follows Oliver who is, as a lone orphan, travelling to London where he befriends Dodge and subsequently gets drawn into a world where he is used by Fagin in order to try and gain power for his evil brotherhood. The story is well written, thanks to a good basis and good original characters.
For our main character, Oliver Twisted, a new and very gory story including zombies, vampires, werewolves and soul stealers is created. Due to these creatures that are very popular at the moment in young adult literature, I think that this book will appeal a lot of young adult readers, especially those who enjoy the paranormal genre.
Characters that appear and that you may recognise include Fagin, Dodge, Bill Sikes and Nancy. These all possess the characteristics of their original personalities, but Sharpe has also expanded and added a new lease of life to them, making them react realistically to their new situations.
The writing was good - there was still reference to the old english writing style right at the beginning, but for the most part, the writing was modern and very easily accessible to middle grade children upwards. The book is extremely gruesome - the grotesque descriptions made me squirm several times but were very effective - I can imagine that a lot of children would love this aspect, but beware if you have a sensitive stomach! The pace of the story is very fluid and it does become quite action packed towards the end. This was easy to read and rather quick, too - so there's no excuse not to give this one a go.
I think that JD Sharpe does do justice to this book and is successful in achieving what she intended - a twist to Oliver Twist, turning it into a modern 'horror' story - something that will certainly appeal to the majority of older children and young adults today. I would definitely recommend this and hopefully it will encourage more people to read the original work too - I know I certainly will, and I would love to read more from Sharpe, too!
As many of you will know, it was the bicentenary of the birth of Charles Dickens this week, and so I thought, although it's not a traditional work of his, but rather a modern reworking, I'd pick up Oliver Twisted and see how it was. With it's great foundation and it's modern ideas, this was a fun read. Ashamedly, I haven't read Oliver Twist, but of course I am aware of the basic aspects of the story from other media, like most. From the altered name of this novel and it's very apt tagline 'Please, I want some gore', I knew that this was going to be a bit different from the original!
Our new story follows Oliver who is, as a lone orphan, travelling to London where he befriends Dodge and subsequently gets drawn into a world where he is used by Fagin in order to try and gain power for his evil brotherhood. The story is well written, thanks to a good basis and good original characters.
For our main character, Oliver Twisted, a new and very gory story including zombies, vampires, werewolves and soul stealers is created. Due to these creatures that are very popular at the moment in young adult literature, I think that this book will appeal a lot of young adult readers, especially those who enjoy the paranormal genre.
Characters that appear and that you may recognise include Fagin, Dodge, Bill Sikes and Nancy. These all possess the characteristics of their original personalities, but Sharpe has also expanded and added a new lease of life to them, making them react realistically to their new situations.
The writing was good - there was still reference to the old english writing style right at the beginning, but for the most part, the writing was modern and very easily accessible to middle grade children upwards. The book is extremely gruesome - the grotesque descriptions made me squirm several times but were very effective - I can imagine that a lot of children would love this aspect, but beware if you have a sensitive stomach! The pace of the story is very fluid and it does become quite action packed towards the end. This was easy to read and rather quick, too - so there's no excuse not to give this one a go.
I think that JD Sharpe does do justice to this book and is successful in achieving what she intended - a twist to Oliver Twist, turning it into a modern 'horror' story - something that will certainly appeal to the majority of older children and young adults today. I would definitely recommend this and hopefully it will encourage more people to read the original work too - I know I certainly will, and I would love to read more from Sharpe, too!
August 24, 2018
I received this book as a present from Beanie. He knows what I like!
This book is a retelling of Oliver Twist, but with Vampires, zombies, and more added to it. And it is a really cool read. Once I started I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting.
I have read the original book long ago, but remembered enough to recognize some events although they were of course tweaked in a way I was totally on board with. Other events I didn't remember so clearly and after reading the book I looked up the plot of the original story to see how different this story was was the original.
I must say I liked some the characters more than I liked them in the original story, especially Dodger. I was eager to see what would happen to my favorite characters and if Oliver would make the right choices.
All in all a really cool retelling and it will join my other mashup booksto be reread when I'm in the mood.
This book is a retelling of Oliver Twist, but with Vampires, zombies, and more added to it. And it is a really cool read. Once I started I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting.
I have read the original book long ago, but remembered enough to recognize some events although they were of course tweaked in a way I was totally on board with. Other events I didn't remember so clearly and after reading the book I looked up the plot of the original story to see how different this story was was the original.
I must say I liked some the characters more than I liked them in the original story, especially Dodger. I was eager to see what would happen to my favorite characters and if Oliver would make the right choices.
All in all a really cool retelling and it will join my other mashup booksto be reread when I'm in the mood.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2012
'Oliver Twisted' is one of the first offerings from Egmont's new young adult imprint Electric Monkey. Published to tie-in with the bicentenary of Charles Dickens, 'Oliver Twisted' puts a fresh spin on the Dickens classic while remaining true to the spirit of the original.
I'm a huge admirer of Dicken's work so I was immediately intrigued about this title. Much like the author JD Sharpe, I've always loved 'Oliver Twist' and enjoyed the story of an orphan boy whose life eventually takes a turn for the better after enduring hardship and adversity. I was curious to see how the author was going to reintroduce this story to a whole new audience of readers while injecting it with a modern twist. The introduction of vampyres, zombies and werewolves does the job quite nicely!
Familiar characters are not forgotten and are cleverly interwoven into the story, including faces such as the Artful Dodger, Nancy, Bill Sykes and the wicked Fagin. It was fun to see Dodger turning himself into a wisp of smoke and Fagin having a magical hold over his boys.
A new backstory is invented for Oliver who is still an orphan but now also becomes a pawn who the infamous and evil Brotherhood want to use to defeat the Knights of Nostradamus. I thought this was an interesting subversion of the original plot and meant that the story actually became far darker and creepier than the classic we all know and love. Before starting this book I did worry that it might be a bit too gory for my tastes but in actuality I found that there were just the right amount of thrills and spills to make this a compulsive and exciting read.
'Oliver Twisted' is an inventive take on a much loved classic and one which will have widespread appeal for both a male and female readership. I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to more books by JD Sharpe in the future.
I'm a huge admirer of Dicken's work so I was immediately intrigued about this title. Much like the author JD Sharpe, I've always loved 'Oliver Twist' and enjoyed the story of an orphan boy whose life eventually takes a turn for the better after enduring hardship and adversity. I was curious to see how the author was going to reintroduce this story to a whole new audience of readers while injecting it with a modern twist. The introduction of vampyres, zombies and werewolves does the job quite nicely!
Familiar characters are not forgotten and are cleverly interwoven into the story, including faces such as the Artful Dodger, Nancy, Bill Sykes and the wicked Fagin. It was fun to see Dodger turning himself into a wisp of smoke and Fagin having a magical hold over his boys.
A new backstory is invented for Oliver who is still an orphan but now also becomes a pawn who the infamous and evil Brotherhood want to use to defeat the Knights of Nostradamus. I thought this was an interesting subversion of the original plot and meant that the story actually became far darker and creepier than the classic we all know and love. Before starting this book I did worry that it might be a bit too gory for my tastes but in actuality I found that there were just the right amount of thrills and spills to make this a compulsive and exciting read.
'Oliver Twisted' is an inventive take on a much loved classic and one which will have widespread appeal for both a male and female readership. I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to more books by JD Sharpe in the future.
February 4, 2012
This is new from the Egmont Press's new imprint for teenagers; Electric Monkey. I really, really enjoyed it. When I read the press release accompanying the book, I was a little doubtful: early nineteenth century realist/ protest novel mashed up with fin de siecle decadence and horror? But in fact, it works brilliantly. Dickens makes his poor law guardians hard, unimaginative and unfeeling men; Sharpe goes a bit further and makes them vampires, literally feeding on the poor and dispossessed. Oliver doesn't just face moral danger on running away from the Sowerberries; he faces werewolves and zombies. Brilliant fun, and highly recommended, even if you haven't read Oliver Twist
April 17, 2013
A really engaging and interesting read, can honestly say that I have never read anything like this before.
November 23, 2013
Would have given 4 stars, but the abrupt ending let the book down a bit. :(
March 16, 2023
Oliver Twisted is a darker take on the original of which it is guided from 'Oliver Twist'
Oliver is raised in a blood farm where his blood is drained for vampires until he reaches the age where he is transferred to the work house.
But Oliver has a destiny, and when he saves Dodger from Woe-Begottens he is soon to realize just how powerful he is.
I enjoyed this book as it was something original in its own way, it wasn't nearly as gore ridden as i expected but the story was well written. I couldn't help but read the dialogue in the characters from the movie voices though, in a way it made it that much more amusing.
Favorite character is either Sikes or Fagin as they are vile and menacing. I love how J.D Sharp turns them into gruesome beasts, in particular Fagin with his handkerchief collection going on.
great read for a change of pace and a bit of mucky old london!
Oliver is raised in a blood farm where his blood is drained for vampires until he reaches the age where he is transferred to the work house.
But Oliver has a destiny, and when he saves Dodger from Woe-Begottens he is soon to realize just how powerful he is.
I enjoyed this book as it was something original in its own way, it wasn't nearly as gore ridden as i expected but the story was well written. I couldn't help but read the dialogue in the characters from the movie voices though, in a way it made it that much more amusing.
Favorite character is either Sikes or Fagin as they are vile and menacing. I love how J.D Sharp turns them into gruesome beasts, in particular Fagin with his handkerchief collection going on.
great read for a change of pace and a bit of mucky old london!
July 17, 2024
picked this up in a bookstore in 2012ish and started reading the first few chapters- even though i didn’t get to buy it this book haunted me for the rest of my life, i wasn’t able to find it anywhere and i was so annoyed that i’d never get to finish this story. my inner child is finally fulfilled
January 15, 2022
surprisingly entertaining if you like the genre ☺️
February 10, 2022
Interesting and entertaining but not enough pages to develop the concept/supernatural world. Ending felt a little rushed.
September 27, 2022
I was hoping this would have more humor and winks at the reader, something like Pride & Prejudice & Zombies. But nope. It's just a straight horror retelling of Oliver Twist. Ho hum.
November 24, 2022
Excellent reworking of a classic tale. X
February 6, 2012
Confession #1: I am not a particularly big fan of Charles Dickens books. I know that by admitting that I run the risk of being burned as a heretic, but I have to be true to myself and my readers.
Confession #2: The only Dickens book I have read is Oliver Twist. I have read this one and a half times. The half was the abridged version when I was at school (Year 8 or Year 9 I believe); the other time was as an adult. I think I much preferred the abridged version.
Despite it being a great story, with many fantastic characters that have become an integral part of our national culture, I simply did not enjoy the reading experience. It was simply far too wordy for my liking, and having slogged through it I didn’t have the motivation to try another of his many books. I’m sure it is to my loss, but c’est la vie.
If you are still reading this and haven’t closed your browser in disgust then please now let me tell you about Oliver Twisted, a book I found hugely enjoyable. I first heard about the book last year when I was at a bloggers’ event held by OUP. Jasmine Richards (aka JD Sharpe), one of their senior editors, told me about one of her own books due out in 2012, and I was sold on the idea immediately. Oliver Twist with vampires and zombies? Of course it appealed to me.
If you are a Dickens fan, and you are still reading this, perhaps now feeling more than a little horrified that someone has ‘messed’ with yet another classic by doing a “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” on Dickens’ much loved story then have no fear. I gave up on P&P&Z after only a couple of chapters – Oliver Twisted is infinitely better. First of all JD Sharpe is herself a huge, huge fan of the works of Charles Dickens and this is evident from the way she treats the well known characters that given a new lease of life (or in some cases death) in her version of the story.
Secondly, unlike P&P&Z where Jane Austen’s original words are used with various changes and additions, this is a rewrite of the Oliver Twist story. By this I mean that Ms Sharpe has taken the basic plot of the original Dickens story and turned it into an action horror story to rival the likes of Darren Shan and David Gatward. In this story Oliver’s mother dies shortly after giving birth to him, but her death is far from natural – she takes her own life rather than give into the change that she faces having been bitten by a woe-begotten (Victorian for zombie). We then see Oliver progress through orphanage, onto workhouse, and then into the employ of Mr Sowerberry before finally running away to London, with each of these episodes in his life twisted to make the storyline far more horrific than the original. Once Oliver arrives in London he goes on to meet all the familiarly named characters, although some of them are as you have never seen them before.
I’m not going to go into any more detail as I don’t want to spoil the reading experience for anyone. Part of the enjoyment of this richly imagined story is each discovery of what the author has done to tweak a well known character to make them fit her new vampire and werewolf populated Victorian world. To call the story a mash-up would be doing a great disservice to the author; I feel that she has managed to fuse the original story with her own twisted take on Victorian England in a way that Seth Grahame-Smith never even came close to, and in doing so has created a story that will have appeal to adult lovers of the original, and young readers who are yet to pick up a Charles Dickens novel for the first time. I am looking forward to passing this on to the English staff at school to see their reactions to it.
Confession #2: The only Dickens book I have read is Oliver Twist. I have read this one and a half times. The half was the abridged version when I was at school (Year 8 or Year 9 I believe); the other time was as an adult. I think I much preferred the abridged version.
Despite it being a great story, with many fantastic characters that have become an integral part of our national culture, I simply did not enjoy the reading experience. It was simply far too wordy for my liking, and having slogged through it I didn’t have the motivation to try another of his many books. I’m sure it is to my loss, but c’est la vie.
If you are still reading this and haven’t closed your browser in disgust then please now let me tell you about Oliver Twisted, a book I found hugely enjoyable. I first heard about the book last year when I was at a bloggers’ event held by OUP. Jasmine Richards (aka JD Sharpe), one of their senior editors, told me about one of her own books due out in 2012, and I was sold on the idea immediately. Oliver Twist with vampires and zombies? Of course it appealed to me.
If you are a Dickens fan, and you are still reading this, perhaps now feeling more than a little horrified that someone has ‘messed’ with yet another classic by doing a “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” on Dickens’ much loved story then have no fear. I gave up on P&P&Z after only a couple of chapters – Oliver Twisted is infinitely better. First of all JD Sharpe is herself a huge, huge fan of the works of Charles Dickens and this is evident from the way she treats the well known characters that given a new lease of life (or in some cases death) in her version of the story.
Secondly, unlike P&P&Z where Jane Austen’s original words are used with various changes and additions, this is a rewrite of the Oliver Twist story. By this I mean that Ms Sharpe has taken the basic plot of the original Dickens story and turned it into an action horror story to rival the likes of Darren Shan and David Gatward. In this story Oliver’s mother dies shortly after giving birth to him, but her death is far from natural – she takes her own life rather than give into the change that she faces having been bitten by a woe-begotten (Victorian for zombie). We then see Oliver progress through orphanage, onto workhouse, and then into the employ of Mr Sowerberry before finally running away to London, with each of these episodes in his life twisted to make the storyline far more horrific than the original. Once Oliver arrives in London he goes on to meet all the familiarly named characters, although some of them are as you have never seen them before.
I’m not going to go into any more detail as I don’t want to spoil the reading experience for anyone. Part of the enjoyment of this richly imagined story is each discovery of what the author has done to tweak a well known character to make them fit her new vampire and werewolf populated Victorian world. To call the story a mash-up would be doing a great disservice to the author; I feel that she has managed to fuse the original story with her own twisted take on Victorian England in a way that Seth Grahame-Smith never even came close to, and in doing so has created a story that will have appeal to adult lovers of the original, and young readers who are yet to pick up a Charles Dickens novel for the first time. I am looking forward to passing this on to the English staff at school to see their reactions to it.
January 2, 2012
Electric Monkey is a new Young Adult imprint from Egmont Press that will be launched in February 2012 with three brand new titles. One of these is Oliver Twisted by J D Sharpe. When the author contacted me to ask if I would read and review Oliver Twisted, I was very unsure.
Marketed as 'supreme fusion of the eternal classic with horror Victorian England but not as we know it', this is so far out of my comfort zone that I was actually a little bit scared at the thought of it. Add to that the suggestion of blood sucking vampires and other such nasties and I was all set to refuse. However, there was something that intrigued me about all of this, not least the fabulous looking cover so I took a deep breath and said yes, of course I'll read it.
And I've read and enjoyed every page of this gory, horrifying tale of terror and monsters and evil. The writing is wonderful and although the plot line is fabulously over the top, J D Sharpe really knows how to weave an exciting adventure. She also knows how to make the reader grimace in horror and gasp in shock as more and more evil is unleashed upon Victorian London. All of Dicken's original Oliver Twist characters are included in this re-telling of that well-loved classic. Who knew that Fagin was a soul-stealer? Or that Bill Sykes was a werewolf? Oliver knows that his destiny is one of good but must escape the evil that surrounds him - avoiding the woe-begottens that would feed on his flesh, the zombies and the were wolves is a roller coaster ride of an adventure. JD Sharpe portrays the dark and gothic streets with ease and pulls the reader into the mist and gloom and terror of the dark London nights easily.
I can't say that I'm fully converted to vampires and zombies but I can say with honestly that I really enjoyed this debut novel. I wish Jasmine every success with this novel and also to Electric Monkey in their new venture. Many thanks to Jasmine for sending my copy for review
Marketed as 'supreme fusion of the eternal classic with horror Victorian England but not as we know it', this is so far out of my comfort zone that I was actually a little bit scared at the thought of it. Add to that the suggestion of blood sucking vampires and other such nasties and I was all set to refuse. However, there was something that intrigued me about all of this, not least the fabulous looking cover so I took a deep breath and said yes, of course I'll read it.
And I've read and enjoyed every page of this gory, horrifying tale of terror and monsters and evil. The writing is wonderful and although the plot line is fabulously over the top, J D Sharpe really knows how to weave an exciting adventure. She also knows how to make the reader grimace in horror and gasp in shock as more and more evil is unleashed upon Victorian London. All of Dicken's original Oliver Twist characters are included in this re-telling of that well-loved classic. Who knew that Fagin was a soul-stealer? Or that Bill Sykes was a werewolf? Oliver knows that his destiny is one of good but must escape the evil that surrounds him - avoiding the woe-begottens that would feed on his flesh, the zombies and the were wolves is a roller coaster ride of an adventure. JD Sharpe portrays the dark and gothic streets with ease and pulls the reader into the mist and gloom and terror of the dark London nights easily.
I can't say that I'm fully converted to vampires and zombies but I can say with honestly that I really enjoyed this debut novel. I wish Jasmine every success with this novel and also to Electric Monkey in their new venture. Many thanks to Jasmine for sending my copy for review
March 13, 2012
Review by Madison Year 9
As you would expect Oliver Twisted is the main character in this fascinating revival of the classic Oliver Twist. Oliver, an orphan, has to choose between to paths for his future: he can either choose good where he has to help diminish the devils that roam the world or evil and help the devils overrule the humans. During his journey to London his fate will be decided.
Oliver has had a hard start in life, pushed from place to place, being used as a food source for Vampyres, turning him savage and crazy. Finally he escapes, heading for London which he discovers holds the key to his future although he must face adversity on the way.
My favorite part of this book was when Oliver first met Dodge and had to escape the Woe-Begottens. Oliver also discovers that his 'powers' can be used for good. The action during this part was exciting and I really liked that Oliver could be good. Although I really didn't like what happened to Nancy, no spoilers, but I really liked her and felt that in the end she was trying to help. I would have preferred to have this part of the story portrayed differently.
Oliver is by far my favorite character, he is really brave and ultimately good even though horrible things happen to him. Plus his super-powers were really cool [ : D ]
I honestly didn't know what to expect from this unique re-telling of Oliver Twist but I really enjoyed it, it was something unexpected and different and I will be recommending it to others.
As you would expect Oliver Twisted is the main character in this fascinating revival of the classic Oliver Twist. Oliver, an orphan, has to choose between to paths for his future: he can either choose good where he has to help diminish the devils that roam the world or evil and help the devils overrule the humans. During his journey to London his fate will be decided.
Oliver has had a hard start in life, pushed from place to place, being used as a food source for Vampyres, turning him savage and crazy. Finally he escapes, heading for London which he discovers holds the key to his future although he must face adversity on the way.
My favorite part of this book was when Oliver first met Dodge and had to escape the Woe-Begottens. Oliver also discovers that his 'powers' can be used for good. The action during this part was exciting and I really liked that Oliver could be good. Although I really didn't like what happened to Nancy, no spoilers, but I really liked her and felt that in the end she was trying to help. I would have preferred to have this part of the story portrayed differently.
Oliver is by far my favorite character, he is really brave and ultimately good even though horrible things happen to him. Plus his super-powers were really cool [ : D ]
I honestly didn't know what to expect from this unique re-telling of Oliver Twist but I really enjoyed it, it was something unexpected and different and I will be recommending it to others.
March 5, 2012
I wonder what Charles Dickens would say if he knew Oliver Twist now lived in a world where vampires freely sucked the blood from the poor orphans!
The original Oliver Twist was always such a dark tale anyway, so I was rather intrigued to discover that JD Sharpe had made it even darker. Oliver Twisted is gloriously gory and I loved every minute of it. A rich atmospheric read, that will bring a classic tale into the hands of today's teenagers.
I love how the author has developed the characters. The real essence of each character that Charles Dickens created is still there, but the author has given them a malevolent makeover that really captures your imagination. The connection between Bill Sikes and Bullseye completely won me over. I was so impressed with their past history. I loved Oliver - his constant battle to discover who he really should be broke my heart; I wanted to reach out and comfort him. Dodge was just fabulous too - definitely a character you would want on your side.
The book follows a similar path as the original, but JD Sharpe has definitely made it her own. with the addition of soul stealers, woe begottens (zombies) and vampyres. Everyone know now that I am not a great fan of zombies, but these ones actually had feelings and I felt sorry for them. The story may be Dickens, but the voice is definitely JD Sharpe's!
I can't wait to see what book will be next!
The original Oliver Twist was always such a dark tale anyway, so I was rather intrigued to discover that JD Sharpe had made it even darker. Oliver Twisted is gloriously gory and I loved every minute of it. A rich atmospheric read, that will bring a classic tale into the hands of today's teenagers.
I love how the author has developed the characters. The real essence of each character that Charles Dickens created is still there, but the author has given them a malevolent makeover that really captures your imagination. The connection between Bill Sikes and Bullseye completely won me over. I was so impressed with their past history. I loved Oliver - his constant battle to discover who he really should be broke my heart; I wanted to reach out and comfort him. Dodge was just fabulous too - definitely a character you would want on your side.
The book follows a similar path as the original, but JD Sharpe has definitely made it her own. with the addition of soul stealers, woe begottens (zombies) and vampyres. Everyone know now that I am not a great fan of zombies, but these ones actually had feelings and I felt sorry for them. The story may be Dickens, but the voice is definitely JD Sharpe's!
I can't wait to see what book will be next!
March 24, 2012
Oliver Twisted introduces us to an Oliver not quite like any we've seen before. He's still an orphan growing up in an orphanage but this is a world where vampyres snack on the children! After making the decision to go to London Oliver barely survives a woe-begotten (zombie) attack on the journey, it is only thanks to the help of Dodger that he arrives in one piece. But that is just the start of his troubles and if you thought the Bill Sykes and Fagin you've read about before were evil you haven't seen anything yet - Oliver Twisted is even darker than the original tale!
You think you know Oliver's story but JD Sharpe has managed to include some fabulous twists in the characters we love (or in some cases love to hate!). So while she has managed to keep the essence of the story she has also managed to make it her own and put a fresh spin on a much loved tale.
Oliver Twisted is a great debut and one that I'm sure will appeal to both boys and girls. It is a very dark and gory read so not one I would have wanted to read just before bed (but then I'm a well known wuss when it comes to horror!) but I found myself enjoying the gruesome details much more than I expected to. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who likes seeing a new twist on classic stories, especially if they also happen to be a horror fan. I'm looking forward to seeing what JD Sharpe comes up with next.
You think you know Oliver's story but JD Sharpe has managed to include some fabulous twists in the characters we love (or in some cases love to hate!). So while she has managed to keep the essence of the story she has also managed to make it her own and put a fresh spin on a much loved tale.
Oliver Twisted is a great debut and one that I'm sure will appeal to both boys and girls. It is a very dark and gory read so not one I would have wanted to read just before bed (but then I'm a well known wuss when it comes to horror!) but I found myself enjoying the gruesome details much more than I expected to. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who likes seeing a new twist on classic stories, especially if they also happen to be a horror fan. I'm looking forward to seeing what JD Sharpe comes up with next.
January 27, 2015
Oliver Twisted is a reimagining of Oliver Twist. It's set in Victorian England ut features Zombies and werewolves and soul stealing demons.
I must say I was worried that this book would be like those Pride Prejudice and Zombie books where the orignal books just has things added in but this certainly wasn't the case which I was pleased about.
Oliver is still the sad little orphan we have all grown up knowing about, even if like me you haven't read the book, but he's got these magical powers he hasn't quite got to grips with yet and isn't quite sure whether he is good or evil.
The book would be a good one for reluctant boy readers because it is horribly gory throughout with some wicked descriptions which they would love (even if it was a bit more than I could handle at times) and a really fast paced. It also made a good effort of keeping the language in keeping with the style of the original.
All in all an enjoyable good which would be perfect for introducing teenagers to the works of Dickens.
I must say I was worried that this book would be like those Pride Prejudice and Zombie books where the orignal books just has things added in but this certainly wasn't the case which I was pleased about.
Oliver is still the sad little orphan we have all grown up knowing about, even if like me you haven't read the book, but he's got these magical powers he hasn't quite got to grips with yet and isn't quite sure whether he is good or evil.
The book would be a good one for reluctant boy readers because it is horribly gory throughout with some wicked descriptions which they would love (even if it was a bit more than I could handle at times) and a really fast paced. It also made a good effort of keeping the language in keeping with the style of the original.
All in all an enjoyable good which would be perfect for introducing teenagers to the works of Dickens.
September 9, 2013
taking a classic, which is a miserable sad to to core story, and turning it, into a more miserable, Gore to the core one, well, I didn't know if I should hate it or Love it, but I will go with the last
LOVE.
Oliver Twisted, has the original Oliver twist as its base, with original lines here and there that was fitted perfectly with the new plot, very smart , though risky to use such a timeless novel, to recreate, but j.D pulled it off, it was like watching one of those movies when they use a classic old tale as an inspiration. seeing the old with a new twist , or a parallel world is always fun, if made right, and this one was a success
and what I loved best was Oliver's behavior b4 breaking into the house, was really shocking and thrilling, and Dodger's role, he was brilliant LOVED him here even more than the original, I think he is Always the most mysterious chr. that needed more time to know him well, and he got the most potential and opportunity to tell more of his tale, and I can say J.D took the chance to tell about the Dodger.
LOVE.
Oliver Twisted, has the original Oliver twist as its base, with original lines here and there that was fitted perfectly with the new plot, very smart , though risky to use such a timeless novel, to recreate, but j.D pulled it off, it was like watching one of those movies when they use a classic old tale as an inspiration. seeing the old with a new twist , or a parallel world is always fun, if made right, and this one was a success
and what I loved best was Oliver's behavior b4 breaking into the house, was really shocking and thrilling, and Dodger's role, he was brilliant LOVED him here even more than the original, I think he is Always the most mysterious chr. that needed more time to know him well, and he got the most potential and opportunity to tell more of his tale, and I can say J.D took the chance to tell about the Dodger.
March 13, 2012
I was a little dubious by the concept and idea behind this book to start with and when I started reading it thought it was a little weird.
However, the further I got into the book, the more I enjoyed it, the merging of a classic tale such as Oliver Twist with vampires, zombies and other mythical beings has turned what was already a dark story into one even darker and unimaginable. It also raises the question of what next - what other classic tale could be given the same sort of macabre twist? The possibilites are endless.
Whilst this is particularly aimed at a young adult audience, I think really this would appeal to anyone, especially those who have read/watched various adaptations of the original story, although this would not really be for those with a nervous disposition.
This was received as a Goodreads First Reads copy.
However, the further I got into the book, the more I enjoyed it, the merging of a classic tale such as Oliver Twist with vampires, zombies and other mythical beings has turned what was already a dark story into one even darker and unimaginable. It also raises the question of what next - what other classic tale could be given the same sort of macabre twist? The possibilites are endless.
Whilst this is particularly aimed at a young adult audience, I think really this would appeal to anyone, especially those who have read/watched various adaptations of the original story, although this would not really be for those with a nervous disposition.
This was received as a Goodreads First Reads copy.
June 26, 2013
Oliver Twisted is a darker take on the original of which it is guided from 'Oliver Twist'
Oliver is raised in a blood farm where his blood is drained for vampires until he reaches the age where he is transferred to the work house.
But Oliver has a destiny, and when he saves Dodger from Woe-Begottens he is soon to realize just how powerful he is.
I enjoyed this book as it was something original in its own way, it wasn't nearly as gore ridden as i expected but the story was well written. I couldn't help but read the dialogue in the characters from the movie voices though, in a way it made it that much more amusing.
Favorite character is either Sikes or Fagin as they are vile and menacing. I love how J.D Sharp turns them into gruesome beasts, in particular Fagin with his handkerchief collection going on.
great read for a change of pace and a bit of mucky old london!
Oliver is raised in a blood farm where his blood is drained for vampires until he reaches the age where he is transferred to the work house.
But Oliver has a destiny, and when he saves Dodger from Woe-Begottens he is soon to realize just how powerful he is.
I enjoyed this book as it was something original in its own way, it wasn't nearly as gore ridden as i expected but the story was well written. I couldn't help but read the dialogue in the characters from the movie voices though, in a way it made it that much more amusing.
Favorite character is either Sikes or Fagin as they are vile and menacing. I love how J.D Sharp turns them into gruesome beasts, in particular Fagin with his handkerchief collection going on.
great read for a change of pace and a bit of mucky old london!
April 18, 2016
This is a gory fast-paced reimagining (not re-working) of the Oliver Twist story that finds him an orphan in a world dominated by vampires, zombies and werewolves. While it is clearly aimed at younger readers it still embodies the language and style of the Dickens original, perhaps providing a good introduction to those unfamiliar with the orginal work. I actually rather liked this version as Twist was less helpless than in Dickens' original story and Sharpe combines the traits of the original characters well with their new ones with each obviously carefully chosen and thought out. I would've liked more about the Brotherhood and the interplay between the different clans(?) but I think this was probably spot on for the target audience. Overall a pretty darn good read.
October 11, 2020
2 and a half. Rounded up because of language, which was a delight. Otherwise, however, I was this close to filing it under "didn't finish" (opted for skimming instead) because, well, I kept getting bored. I know the original too well, so the plot didn't hold enough novelty. I know the current obsessions (zombies, vampires, etc.) too well, AND I'm sick of them, so what novelty there was I'd either seen elsewhere (and didn't even like it the first time around), or I hadn't but couldn't care less.
I suppose it was the wrong time to pick it up. Will try again in 5-6 years.
I suppose it was the wrong time to pick it up. Will try again in 5-6 years.
November 20, 2013
I think this book was brilliant I have not read Oliver Twist but I know the story I was in my school library when this book jumped out at me , I love horror books and I liked how it was taking a classical well know book and giving it a total revamp. After a couple of chapters in I got hooked and could not but this book down. I love how J.D Sharpe has entwined the characters of Oliver Twist into the dark and horror world of Oliver Twisted
April 19, 2012
Review by Hannah Davies (12)
Really enjoyed this. It's well-written and it hooked me so that I kept wanting to read more. It follows the style of Dickens - but it's not so difficult to understand. I like "Oliver Twist" itself AND I like this version. It's gory but not TOO gory. Great fun to read and I love the cover illustration.
Really enjoyed this. It's well-written and it hooked me so that I kept wanting to read more. It follows the style of Dickens - but it's not so difficult to understand. I like "Oliver Twist" itself AND I like this version. It's gory but not TOO gory. Great fun to read and I love the cover illustration.
November 3, 2013
Ungefär halvvägs gav jag upp den här boken. Den var så absurd och knasig, dessutom avskydde jag den allvetande rösten - orkade knappt med den! Men jag ger boken pluspoäng för kreativitet och att den lyckas följa originalet samtidigt som Sharpe lyckas skapa sin egen historia.
July 4, 2012
Not really sure what to think about this. Idea is a good one but kind of lacked the justice it needed...
August 28, 2012
This was a goodreads win, and it was amazing. oliver twist with zombies warewolvs vampires and more.
March 16, 2013
Surprisingly good
Read
June 3, 2013absolutely fantastic twist on this story, i love the imagination. Fagan is deffo a brill character adaptation
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