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Kane and Harper know what they want: Beth and Adam. And they know how to get it: Break up the shiny happy couple once and for all. Miranda thinks she knows how to hit on Kane (Mr. Unattainable). But she could take a few pointers from the all-knowing Kaia, who's seducing Mr. Powell, teacher en franÇais. And Reed? Well, he just knows how to have a good time....
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256 pages, Paperback
First published December 20, 2005
26 people are currently reading
1039 people want to read
About the author
Robin Wasserman
114 books1,478 followersRobin Wasserman is the author of the novels MOTHER DAUGHTER WIDOW WIFE (June 2020) and GIRLS ON FIRE. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, Tin House, The Los Angeles Review of Books, and several short story anthologies. A recent MacDowell Colony fellow, she is also the New York Times bestselling author of more than ten novels for young adults and teaches in the low-residency MFA program at Southern New Hampshire University.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
November 23, 2008
Oh my God?
Confession: I found the first half of the novel to be a bit of a drag, just because it was so similar to Lust. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I've always thought that although the books within a series usually follow the same general storyline, each book is meant to have its own individual plot/s or obstacle/s. The beginning of Envy didn't feel that way. It is around 160 pages in when everything starts to change, though; new plots develop or thicken, plans are finally put into action, characters become just a little more screwed up...
Trust me, it is definitely worth the waiting.
Confession: I found the first half of the novel to be a bit of a drag, just because it was so similar to Lust. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I've always thought that although the books within a series usually follow the same general storyline, each book is meant to have its own individual plot/s or obstacle/s. The beginning of Envy didn't feel that way. It is around 160 pages in when everything starts to change, though; new plots develop or thicken, plans are finally put into action, characters become just a little more screwed up...
Trust me, it is definitely worth the waiting.
February 25, 2018
Man I was so obsessed with this series when it was first released! I got so caught up in the drama and this second one was great because everyone's been introduced so we can really get into all the nastiness.
Stereotypical characters but it's old school so they were pretty fun when I read it. It was my Gossip Girl obsession before Gossip Girl existed.
Highly recommend if you love the Mean Girls high-school drama type stuff. I'd love to unearth this series for a re-read!
Stereotypical characters but it's old school so they were pretty fun when I read it. It was my Gossip Girl obsession before Gossip Girl existed.
Highly recommend if you love the Mean Girls high-school drama type stuff. I'd love to unearth this series for a re-read!
June 25, 2013
Enjoyed & am finally donating as I need to cull bookshelves before moving. Read the whole series & have a soft spot for the movie as well.
March 8, 2017
Personal Response: I liked this book a lot. I felt there was a little too much drama, but nonetheless it was pretty good. I liked how good the descriptions were. Robin Wasserman, the author, made the setting seem pretty realistic. I enjoyed that there were several things going on at once. There were no boring parts in it. I feel this book had a little bit more drama than the first book in the series, Lust. It did, however, keep my interest more because of the added drama.
Plot: Envy was about Harper and Kane finally getting what they wanted. Harper and Adam had been best friends since day one, but she never had to guts to say that to his face that she liked him. Kane, the “bad boy,” had always been searching for ways to make Beth his. Kane, Harper, and Kaia made a plan to destroy Beth and Adam. Kane had been getting nice and close to Beth, because she was helping with the ACT prep. Adam instantly got jealous, but he trusted his best friend and Beth. While Kane and Beth never did anything together, they were able to Photoshop Kane and Beth kissing. Beth ended up ditching last minute on Adam at his championship swim meet to study for the ACT with Kane. Kaia called Adam shortly after and said she “saw” Kane and Beth making out. When Adam saw the Photoshopped picture, Harper was “conveniently” there to calm him down. It didn’t take long until they were all over each other. When Beth and Adam hung out after he got home, he instantly went off on her. Personally, I don’t blame him for doing so. Beth had no idea what he was mad about, because she was truly innocent. The day of the ACT’s came, and Beth saw Adam and Harper kiss in the school parking lot. Perfect timing for Kane though, he was there to calm her down. Beth got no sleep the night prior to the ACT, because she couldn’t figure out why Adam was mad at her. At the end the story, the title Envy, came into play. Everyone had who and what they wanted, no matter how hard they had to fight to get there.
Characterization: This story is about four teenage girls and two teenage boys. The boys’ names are Kane and Adam. They’re both seniors in high school, and they like to drink a lot of alcohol. The girls’ names are Miranda, Harper, Beth and the new girl Kaia. Kaia is my least favorite character, and Kane is my favorite. The boys are the typical jocks of the high school while Beth is the smart, shy, bystander. Harper is the most popular in the school. She and Miranda are best friends. Kaia is the new girl who is a snot to everyone behind their backs. There is one other character who becomes more popular in Envy, who is the French teacher, Jack Powell. He and Kaia are an “item” now.
Setting: They live in a small town, with nothing to do but start rumors about people. It’s in a modern day format, because they have phones. Envy isn’t in present day, though, because the still used land lines and had school newspapers. Both of those things are sort of outdated now.
Thematic Connection: The theme that stood out to me was appearance vs. reality. Kaia really fit this theme. She appeared to be a nice, beautiful, city girl, but on the inside she was trying to break everybody's hearts. She was nice to people's faces, but behind their backs she told rumors.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book to anyone in high school. Specifically, I think girls would like this book more. Girls can relate to it better since that’s mostly what this consists of. If readers don’t like drama books, this wouldn't be for them. Younger kids might have a hard time reading it, because there is some foul language.
Plot: Envy was about Harper and Kane finally getting what they wanted. Harper and Adam had been best friends since day one, but she never had to guts to say that to his face that she liked him. Kane, the “bad boy,” had always been searching for ways to make Beth his. Kane, Harper, and Kaia made a plan to destroy Beth and Adam. Kane had been getting nice and close to Beth, because she was helping with the ACT prep. Adam instantly got jealous, but he trusted his best friend and Beth. While Kane and Beth never did anything together, they were able to Photoshop Kane and Beth kissing. Beth ended up ditching last minute on Adam at his championship swim meet to study for the ACT with Kane. Kaia called Adam shortly after and said she “saw” Kane and Beth making out. When Adam saw the Photoshopped picture, Harper was “conveniently” there to calm him down. It didn’t take long until they were all over each other. When Beth and Adam hung out after he got home, he instantly went off on her. Personally, I don’t blame him for doing so. Beth had no idea what he was mad about, because she was truly innocent. The day of the ACT’s came, and Beth saw Adam and Harper kiss in the school parking lot. Perfect timing for Kane though, he was there to calm her down. Beth got no sleep the night prior to the ACT, because she couldn’t figure out why Adam was mad at her. At the end the story, the title Envy, came into play. Everyone had who and what they wanted, no matter how hard they had to fight to get there.
Characterization: This story is about four teenage girls and two teenage boys. The boys’ names are Kane and Adam. They’re both seniors in high school, and they like to drink a lot of alcohol. The girls’ names are Miranda, Harper, Beth and the new girl Kaia. Kaia is my least favorite character, and Kane is my favorite. The boys are the typical jocks of the high school while Beth is the smart, shy, bystander. Harper is the most popular in the school. She and Miranda are best friends. Kaia is the new girl who is a snot to everyone behind their backs. There is one other character who becomes more popular in Envy, who is the French teacher, Jack Powell. He and Kaia are an “item” now.
Setting: They live in a small town, with nothing to do but start rumors about people. It’s in a modern day format, because they have phones. Envy isn’t in present day, though, because the still used land lines and had school newspapers. Both of those things are sort of outdated now.
Thematic Connection: The theme that stood out to me was appearance vs. reality. Kaia really fit this theme. She appeared to be a nice, beautiful, city girl, but on the inside she was trying to break everybody's hearts. She was nice to people's faces, but behind their backs she told rumors.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book to anyone in high school. Specifically, I think girls would like this book more. Girls can relate to it better since that’s mostly what this consists of. If readers don’t like drama books, this wouldn't be for them. Younger kids might have a hard time reading it, because there is some foul language.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2015
I read the book "Envy", which is the second book of the 7 Deadly Sins series, by Robin Wasserman. Overall, the book was extremely good; again there was never a dull moment. The entire book kept me on my edge and made me wonder what would happen next. "Envy" is about Harper finally getting what she wants, Adam, but with Kaia’s and Kane’s help. Also, Kane getting Beth, which means that Adam and Beth split up. Their relationship was already on the brink of being done, which made it really easy for Kaia, Kane, and Harper to follow through with their mischievous plan. There are revealing secrets with Mr. Powell, the French teacher, that come out in the middle of the book.
Characterization really comes out in this book. Beth really shows that she is caring and that she loves Adam, but she keeps the Mr. Powell secret to herself. Kaia’s secret of acting innocent is vanished and everyone knows her true self.. Adam’s character does not change as much, except for his feelings for Beth; he becomes confused. Harper is still the alpha girl, but she starts to betray someone who is supposed to be her best friend. Mr. Powell says he has a rule of not getting involved with his students, but with Beth he has different circumstances. Towards the end of the book, I learned that he has a weak spot when it comes to Kaia.
"Envy" also takes place in modern day, because of the dialect and the clothing that was worn. The actual setting of the book mainly takes place at the high school, there are some other locations mentioned in the book.
A theme that appears is wanting what you cannot have. This applies to Kaia especially, because she wants Mr. Powell, but he is being reluctant towards her. Another theme that I found was a theme of jealousy, which applies to Kane and Harper. They are both jealous of Adam and Beth, that is until they break up.
I recommend this book to readers that are in high school or above. The reason why I recommend it to that specific group is because there is some gruesome language. The events that happened are for a mature crowd.
Characterization really comes out in this book. Beth really shows that she is caring and that she loves Adam, but she keeps the Mr. Powell secret to herself. Kaia’s secret of acting innocent is vanished and everyone knows her true self.. Adam’s character does not change as much, except for his feelings for Beth; he becomes confused. Harper is still the alpha girl, but she starts to betray someone who is supposed to be her best friend. Mr. Powell says he has a rule of not getting involved with his students, but with Beth he has different circumstances. Towards the end of the book, I learned that he has a weak spot when it comes to Kaia.
"Envy" also takes place in modern day, because of the dialect and the clothing that was worn. The actual setting of the book mainly takes place at the high school, there are some other locations mentioned in the book.
A theme that appears is wanting what you cannot have. This applies to Kaia especially, because she wants Mr. Powell, but he is being reluctant towards her. Another theme that I found was a theme of jealousy, which applies to Kane and Harper. They are both jealous of Adam and Beth, that is until they break up.
I recommend this book to readers that are in high school or above. The reason why I recommend it to that specific group is because there is some gruesome language. The events that happened are for a mature crowd.
January 9, 2014
I really enjoyed reading the book “Envy”. This story is about a group of teenagers in their junior year of high school. They are almost halfway through the year and a lot has changed so far this year. The title sums it up perfectly. Jealously and the drive to want what you can’t have forces these kids to do just that. Adam and Beth are dating but Harper and Kane are determined to end the relationship to have them for themselves. The things people will do to get what they want intensifies throughout the book.
The characters told in this story are Harper, Adam, Beth, Kane, Miranda, Kaia, Reed, and Mr. Powell. Harper Grace is number one at school and always finds a way to get what she wants and that means Adam. Adam is handsome, athletic, and a good-hearted boy. Beth is beautiful, smart, and always thinking about her future. Kane is tall, handsome, athletic, and definitely the player of the bunch. Kaia is rich, pretty, and always looking for something better than she already has. Miranda is unattractive, smart, shy, and Harper’s best friend. She always gets treated as the side-kick. Mr. Powell is the new Spanish teacher at school. He is handsome, intelligent, and British. Reed has a crush on Miranda. He is poor, sweet, and quick-witted.
The setting of this story takes place is a small town called Grace. The teenagers is this story spend their time hanging out at each others houses, going to school, and chatting at the Diner in town. The story is told in present day and is fiction.
I really enjoyed reading this story. The author keeps the reader on their toes throughout the whole story. It is predictable but also keeps you guessing what will happen next. The author can be very detailed when describing a scene. I would recommend this book to teenage girls or adult women.
The characters told in this story are Harper, Adam, Beth, Kane, Miranda, Kaia, Reed, and Mr. Powell. Harper Grace is number one at school and always finds a way to get what she wants and that means Adam. Adam is handsome, athletic, and a good-hearted boy. Beth is beautiful, smart, and always thinking about her future. Kane is tall, handsome, athletic, and definitely the player of the bunch. Kaia is rich, pretty, and always looking for something better than she already has. Miranda is unattractive, smart, shy, and Harper’s best friend. She always gets treated as the side-kick. Mr. Powell is the new Spanish teacher at school. He is handsome, intelligent, and British. Reed has a crush on Miranda. He is poor, sweet, and quick-witted.
The setting of this story takes place is a small town called Grace. The teenagers is this story spend their time hanging out at each others houses, going to school, and chatting at the Diner in town. The story is told in present day and is fiction.
I really enjoyed reading this story. The author keeps the reader on their toes throughout the whole story. It is predictable but also keeps you guessing what will happen next. The author can be very detailed when describing a scene. I would recommend this book to teenage girls or adult women.
March 31, 2016
Personal response:
I really enjoyed Envy by Robin Wasserman a lot. It very accurately represented a small town school and what goes down. The drama and how boring things were in Grace, CA were very similar to here. I got into not only this book, but I commit to all of the Seven Deadly Sins.
Plot:
Envy is about Harper and her finally getting what she wanted: Adam. Harper, Kane, and Kaia all confined in a devious plan to get Adam and Beth apart. Kane asked Beth for help for the ACT’s and she helped him study at least once a night. Adam got jealous because Beth was spending all her free time with Kane for studying, but before that, Beth never had a lot of time. She was either working, helping her mother around the house, or watching her younger twin brothers. When Beth was helping Kane study, Harper started to hang out with Adam because otherwise Beth was all he thought about. It wasn’t so bad until Adam has his championship swim meet, the one Beth had promised she would go too. To bad it was the Thursday and Friday before the ACT. Beth apologized to Adam because she needed to study and get the best score possible. Perfect for Harper and Kane, their plan would work perfectly. The plan finally worked when Adam received a text message with a picture of Kane and Beth naked in the girls locker room. Kane photoshopped the whole picture just to get Adam mad and break up with Beth when he got home. Beth cried and went to Kane because she didn’t understand what she did wrong. The next morning the seniors had their ACT test. Beth didn’t sleep at all the night before and seeing Adam kiss Harper as she was walking into the school made everything worse. Thankfully Kane was there to catch Beth before she fell to the ground in shock. After taking the ACT, Beth just wanted to crawl in a hole and basically die. She still didn’t know what she did for Adam to break up with her. Eventually Beth starts to date Kane, just like he and Harper planned. Harper gets Adam, just like she wanted. Kaia is on her way to getting her happy ending. She keeps slowly chipping away at Mr. Powell everyday and eventually gets him to break. Eventually, everyone is getting exactly what they want.
Characterization:
Harper Grace: Harper is growing hungrier than ever for Adam and will stop at absolutely nothing to get him. While she’s going boy crazy over him she doesn’t realize that all these lies, only circle around to bite her in the butt in the end. The facade that Harper is wearing more fake than anything, and to think, it’s all for a boy.
Miranda Stevens: Miranda is the same Miranda she’s always been. She asked Harper to promise to help her get Kane.
Kane Geary: Kane is being the guy he is, get’s everything he wants. That means Beth, too. He’s happy to be spending so much time studying with Beth. Is it Beth he’s studying or his work?
Adam Morgan: Adam is slowly losing Beth and he barely realizes it. Meanwhile, Harper just magically always seems to be there for him. Eventually, Adam loses what he thought he loved.
Beth Manning: Beth is happy to help Kane study for the ACT. That’s Beth though, kind, caring, and a helper. In the end, though she switches to be a kind, helping cheater, or so it was made look that way.
Kaia Sellers: Kaia finally knows exactly what she wants: Mr. Powell. Until she meets Reed. Kaia might think she knows what she wants, but fighting off her urge for Reed, is a lot harder than she planned.
Setting:
Envy is during their fall formal in mid October and early November. It impacts the book by showing how people can manipulate others to get what they want in modern day high schools. Grace is located in California and in Grace, everyone knows everyone. Grace is so small that under aged kids can drink without getting in trouble and get away with about anything they want.
Thematic connection:
A theme that appears is wanting what you cannot have. This applies to Kaia especially, because she wants Mr. Powell, but he is being reluctant towards her. Another theme that I found was a theme of jealousy, which applies to Kane and Harper. They are both jealous of Adam and Beth, that is until they break up
Recommendation:
If you love drama and tragic love, this book and series are definitely for you. I would recommend this book to really anyone in high school. It was really easy to connect with being the same age as the characters in the book. I really enjoyed how similar it was to here and how realistic it was. I definitely give this book a five out of five stars, especially for all the small town drama.
I really enjoyed Envy by Robin Wasserman a lot. It very accurately represented a small town school and what goes down. The drama and how boring things were in Grace, CA were very similar to here. I got into not only this book, but I commit to all of the Seven Deadly Sins.
Plot:
Envy is about Harper and her finally getting what she wanted: Adam. Harper, Kane, and Kaia all confined in a devious plan to get Adam and Beth apart. Kane asked Beth for help for the ACT’s and she helped him study at least once a night. Adam got jealous because Beth was spending all her free time with Kane for studying, but before that, Beth never had a lot of time. She was either working, helping her mother around the house, or watching her younger twin brothers. When Beth was helping Kane study, Harper started to hang out with Adam because otherwise Beth was all he thought about. It wasn’t so bad until Adam has his championship swim meet, the one Beth had promised she would go too. To bad it was the Thursday and Friday before the ACT. Beth apologized to Adam because she needed to study and get the best score possible. Perfect for Harper and Kane, their plan would work perfectly. The plan finally worked when Adam received a text message with a picture of Kane and Beth naked in the girls locker room. Kane photoshopped the whole picture just to get Adam mad and break up with Beth when he got home. Beth cried and went to Kane because she didn’t understand what she did wrong. The next morning the seniors had their ACT test. Beth didn’t sleep at all the night before and seeing Adam kiss Harper as she was walking into the school made everything worse. Thankfully Kane was there to catch Beth before she fell to the ground in shock. After taking the ACT, Beth just wanted to crawl in a hole and basically die. She still didn’t know what she did for Adam to break up with her. Eventually Beth starts to date Kane, just like he and Harper planned. Harper gets Adam, just like she wanted. Kaia is on her way to getting her happy ending. She keeps slowly chipping away at Mr. Powell everyday and eventually gets him to break. Eventually, everyone is getting exactly what they want.
Characterization:
Harper Grace: Harper is growing hungrier than ever for Adam and will stop at absolutely nothing to get him. While she’s going boy crazy over him she doesn’t realize that all these lies, only circle around to bite her in the butt in the end. The facade that Harper is wearing more fake than anything, and to think, it’s all for a boy.
Miranda Stevens: Miranda is the same Miranda she’s always been. She asked Harper to promise to help her get Kane.
Kane Geary: Kane is being the guy he is, get’s everything he wants. That means Beth, too. He’s happy to be spending so much time studying with Beth. Is it Beth he’s studying or his work?
Adam Morgan: Adam is slowly losing Beth and he barely realizes it. Meanwhile, Harper just magically always seems to be there for him. Eventually, Adam loses what he thought he loved.
Beth Manning: Beth is happy to help Kane study for the ACT. That’s Beth though, kind, caring, and a helper. In the end, though she switches to be a kind, helping cheater, or so it was made look that way.
Kaia Sellers: Kaia finally knows exactly what she wants: Mr. Powell. Until she meets Reed. Kaia might think she knows what she wants, but fighting off her urge for Reed, is a lot harder than she planned.
Setting:
Envy is during their fall formal in mid October and early November. It impacts the book by showing how people can manipulate others to get what they want in modern day high schools. Grace is located in California and in Grace, everyone knows everyone. Grace is so small that under aged kids can drink without getting in trouble and get away with about anything they want.
Thematic connection:
A theme that appears is wanting what you cannot have. This applies to Kaia especially, because she wants Mr. Powell, but he is being reluctant towards her. Another theme that I found was a theme of jealousy, which applies to Kane and Harper. They are both jealous of Adam and Beth, that is until they break up
Recommendation:
If you love drama and tragic love, this book and series are definitely for you. I would recommend this book to really anyone in high school. It was really easy to connect with being the same age as the characters in the book. I really enjoyed how similar it was to here and how realistic it was. I definitely give this book a five out of five stars, especially for all the small town drama.
March 30, 2016
Personal Response:
This is the second book in the series. So far, I have only read the first two books. Personally, I like the second one better because there is a lot more happening. We knew who the characters were so they did not have to introduce them like they did in the first book. This book had a lot of drama and like the first book, always kept me on my toes.
Plot:
The book Envy is about an Alpha girl, named Harper Grace, and she finally gets what she wants: Adam. Harper, Kane, and Kaia all confine in a devious plan to get Adam and Beth apart. Kane wants to be with Beth and Harper wants to be with Adam. Kane asks Beth for help for the ACT’s and she helps him. Adam gets jealous because Beth was spending most her free time with Kane to study. Beth never has a lot of free time because she is either working or helping her mother around the house. While Beth is helping Kane study, Harper starts to hang out with Adam because otherwise Adam is always thinking about Beth. Kane, Harper, and Kaia’s plan finally works when Adam receives a text message with a picture of Kane and Beth without any clothes on. Kane, Harper, and Kaia photoshop the whole picture just to get Adam mad and break up with Beth. Well, the picture works, as soon as he receives the picture Adam breaks up with Beth. The end of the book shows both the “new” couples on a date.
Characterization:
One of the main characters in this book is Harper Grace. She basically bosses everyone around because she believes that she is on top of everyone. Another main character is Kane. When him and Harper make a plan to break up the best couple in their school, I started to hate them. There is also Adam and Beth who were dating in the beginning of the book and end up breaking up
Setting:
This book takes place in a little town called Grace. It is in modern day text because it relates to a lot of drama that occurs in present day. In the small town of Grace the main characters are usually at their school or in a run down motel having parties.
Audience:
I would rate this book a four out of five stars because I really enjoyed this book. I would say more girls would lean towards this book rather than guys. Guys do not really like the drama filled books as much as girls. Also, anyone over the age of 15 should read this book.
This is the second book in the series. So far, I have only read the first two books. Personally, I like the second one better because there is a lot more happening. We knew who the characters were so they did not have to introduce them like they did in the first book. This book had a lot of drama and like the first book, always kept me on my toes.
Plot:
The book Envy is about an Alpha girl, named Harper Grace, and she finally gets what she wants: Adam. Harper, Kane, and Kaia all confine in a devious plan to get Adam and Beth apart. Kane wants to be with Beth and Harper wants to be with Adam. Kane asks Beth for help for the ACT’s and she helps him. Adam gets jealous because Beth was spending most her free time with Kane to study. Beth never has a lot of free time because she is either working or helping her mother around the house. While Beth is helping Kane study, Harper starts to hang out with Adam because otherwise Adam is always thinking about Beth. Kane, Harper, and Kaia’s plan finally works when Adam receives a text message with a picture of Kane and Beth without any clothes on. Kane, Harper, and Kaia photoshop the whole picture just to get Adam mad and break up with Beth. Well, the picture works, as soon as he receives the picture Adam breaks up with Beth. The end of the book shows both the “new” couples on a date.
Characterization:
One of the main characters in this book is Harper Grace. She basically bosses everyone around because she believes that she is on top of everyone. Another main character is Kane. When him and Harper make a plan to break up the best couple in their school, I started to hate them. There is also Adam and Beth who were dating in the beginning of the book and end up breaking up
Setting:
This book takes place in a little town called Grace. It is in modern day text because it relates to a lot of drama that occurs in present day. In the small town of Grace the main characters are usually at their school or in a run down motel having parties.
Audience:
I would rate this book a four out of five stars because I really enjoyed this book. I would say more girls would lean towards this book rather than guys. Guys do not really like the drama filled books as much as girls. Also, anyone over the age of 15 should read this book.
September 14, 2016
I have to be honest and say that I found this book boring and the pace of the story was really slow..
Don't get me wrong I love the idea of writing a series of books based on the seven deadly sins but in this case it just wasn't that great an idea.
To make matters worse I had to skim through some of the pages because nothing interesting happened.
I might have been too generous in giving this book two stars because based on my review it deserves less.
Don't get me wrong I love the idea of writing a series of books based on the seven deadly sins but in this case it just wasn't that great an idea.
To make matters worse I had to skim through some of the pages because nothing interesting happened.
I might have been too generous in giving this book two stars because based on my review it deserves less.
May 28, 2008
i read this on the beach when i went up to the Great Barrier Reef, so i was probably so happy about being there i tricked myself into thinking this was a good book.
May 22, 2017
Personal Response:
I gave Envy, by Robin Wasserman a four star rating. I did not enjoy the sequel quite as much as the first, but Wasserman’s writing has me hooked. I found myself unable to put the book down yearning to read more. I found the language the author used to be fitting with the age of the characters. The story of six teenagers’ high school drama was anything but boring.
Plot:
The waiting game is not easily played by people who are used to getting exactly what they want. Kane, Harper, Miranda, and Kaia were sick of playing this game. Kane and Harper were waiting like puppy dogs drooling just waiting for something to fall from the table as Beth and Adam were still dating. Miranda was sick of being alone, and she was sick of waiting for Kane to notice her. Kaia was sick of being just plain bored in the little town. She was sick of seeing Beth and Adam the perfect couple together day in and day out. She was sick of seeing her French teacher every day and not having him pressed up against her. Kane, Harper, and Kaia decided if they didn’t join forces, they would be stuck in this rut forever. The three devised a plan guaranteed to break the happy couple up. Once all the pieces were set in place, it was time to set the operation in motion. Soon the crumbs were falling from a broken relationship, and Kane and Harper were there to pick up the pieces. Miranda had finally managed to get a boyfriend, but she still yearned for Kane. He was the one she really wanted, though she had no experience. Miranda still felt she deserved Kane even though all her attempts have been epic fails. Kaia on the other hand had to be a bit more constructive to get what she wanted. Her sights were set on her teacher, Jack Powell, and she was in high speed pursuit. Her pretentious stalking had payed off, and she had Powell right where she wanted him.
Characterization:
Harper was always looking for a good time. She was confident and always in demand, but she wanted more than her normal random hook ups. She wanted Adam, her best friend and next door neighbor. He was attractive and sensitive, and he was dating Beth. She was all around beautiful and sweet, and her schedule was always jam packed. Kane desperately wanted her. He was the gifted jock whom Miranda pined over. Miranda was Harper’s best friend. Though she didn’t have the looks the other girls had, she had brains. Although, somehow she was hopelessly in love with Kane. Kaia was still an outsider to town, but she still was devious in her mischief. Especially in her pursuit of Jack Powell. He was the most sought after man: he looks, an accent, and money. The friends all wanted something they didn’t have, and it drove each of them crazy.
Setting:
The story took place in the small town of Grace, California. The small town added to the story. Since there wasn’t much to do for fun and recreation, the teens were always looking for the least objectionable options. Based on the references to technology, cars, and fashion trends, I was able to tell the story was set in relatively modern times.
Theme:
The recurring theme of this story was to never give up. This was evident in many ways. Harper never gave up on Adam to go out with her instead of Beth. Kane didn’t give up on waiting for Beth. Kaia still didn’t give up on getting what she couldn’t have. Miranda never gave up on Kane. Though the teens rarely achieved what they truly wanted, they never turned their backs on their goals.
Recommendation:
I recommended this book to teenage girls ages 13-18. I had an age limit of 13, because I felt at this age girls would be able to comprehend the scenes. I had an age limit set, because I felt high school drama might not be interesting to people out of high school. I didn’t recommend this book to guys, because I felt they would not enjoy reading about the drama. I didn’t suggest reading this book until prior to reading Lust since that was the first book to the sequel.
I gave Envy, by Robin Wasserman a four star rating. I did not enjoy the sequel quite as much as the first, but Wasserman’s writing has me hooked. I found myself unable to put the book down yearning to read more. I found the language the author used to be fitting with the age of the characters. The story of six teenagers’ high school drama was anything but boring.
Plot:
The waiting game is not easily played by people who are used to getting exactly what they want. Kane, Harper, Miranda, and Kaia were sick of playing this game. Kane and Harper were waiting like puppy dogs drooling just waiting for something to fall from the table as Beth and Adam were still dating. Miranda was sick of being alone, and she was sick of waiting for Kane to notice her. Kaia was sick of being just plain bored in the little town. She was sick of seeing Beth and Adam the perfect couple together day in and day out. She was sick of seeing her French teacher every day and not having him pressed up against her. Kane, Harper, and Kaia decided if they didn’t join forces, they would be stuck in this rut forever. The three devised a plan guaranteed to break the happy couple up. Once all the pieces were set in place, it was time to set the operation in motion. Soon the crumbs were falling from a broken relationship, and Kane and Harper were there to pick up the pieces. Miranda had finally managed to get a boyfriend, but she still yearned for Kane. He was the one she really wanted, though she had no experience. Miranda still felt she deserved Kane even though all her attempts have been epic fails. Kaia on the other hand had to be a bit more constructive to get what she wanted. Her sights were set on her teacher, Jack Powell, and she was in high speed pursuit. Her pretentious stalking had payed off, and she had Powell right where she wanted him.
Characterization:
Harper was always looking for a good time. She was confident and always in demand, but she wanted more than her normal random hook ups. She wanted Adam, her best friend and next door neighbor. He was attractive and sensitive, and he was dating Beth. She was all around beautiful and sweet, and her schedule was always jam packed. Kane desperately wanted her. He was the gifted jock whom Miranda pined over. Miranda was Harper’s best friend. Though she didn’t have the looks the other girls had, she had brains. Although, somehow she was hopelessly in love with Kane. Kaia was still an outsider to town, but she still was devious in her mischief. Especially in her pursuit of Jack Powell. He was the most sought after man: he looks, an accent, and money. The friends all wanted something they didn’t have, and it drove each of them crazy.
Setting:
The story took place in the small town of Grace, California. The small town added to the story. Since there wasn’t much to do for fun and recreation, the teens were always looking for the least objectionable options. Based on the references to technology, cars, and fashion trends, I was able to tell the story was set in relatively modern times.
Theme:
The recurring theme of this story was to never give up. This was evident in many ways. Harper never gave up on Adam to go out with her instead of Beth. Kane didn’t give up on waiting for Beth. Kaia still didn’t give up on getting what she couldn’t have. Miranda never gave up on Kane. Though the teens rarely achieved what they truly wanted, they never turned their backs on their goals.
Recommendation:
I recommended this book to teenage girls ages 13-18. I had an age limit of 13, because I felt at this age girls would be able to comprehend the scenes. I had an age limit set, because I felt high school drama might not be interesting to people out of high school. I didn’t recommend this book to guys, because I felt they would not enjoy reading about the drama. I didn’t suggest reading this book until prior to reading Lust since that was the first book to the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2020
I read the first book (#1 Lust) of the series Seven Deadly Sins since August 2019 and didn't have much motivation to read the second one (#2 Envy) until recently. I thought I'd give it another shot.
I have mentioned in the review of Lust that this series seem to be too young for me. Well, Lust was but not Envy as the story got more intense and more complicated. I said that I wasn't sure what I thought about Harper, but so far, I don't dislike her. I like her character though (She's a bit like Blair Waldorf in Gossip Girls by Cecily Von Ziegesar - not that I read the books already, just the TV series). Kaia wouldn't be the person I want to be around. I reckon the problems at home promoted her to behave the way she did. Her family environment was poor and unloving. Kaia was an attention seeker and that's understandable because her act was her defensive machanism that all human has. Miranda...the girl how actually has everything (accept a boyfriend) but no one sees. She's forgiving, kind, understanding, a good friend, even though, she fell in love with Kane that I absolutely hate but without him, there's no fun. He gets into my nerves in almost every scene. His too confident personality just unbearable. Ugh!
In the end, it was pretty clear that none of the lot wanted to be themselves. They all wished that they could borrow someone else's shoes for a little while. The thing is they didn't know what behind the closed doors. They thought others' lives were better then theirs. But they're not going to say that out loud. It usually true that most of the people intended to hide their genuine feelings and desires deep down underneath and hope that no one would find out (sometimes, including themselves).
So close to 4 stars.
3.8 it is.
I have mentioned in the review of Lust that this series seem to be too young for me. Well, Lust was but not Envy as the story got more intense and more complicated. I said that I wasn't sure what I thought about Harper, but so far, I don't dislike her. I like her character though (She's a bit like Blair Waldorf in Gossip Girls by Cecily Von Ziegesar - not that I read the books already, just the TV series). Kaia wouldn't be the person I want to be around. I reckon the problems at home promoted her to behave the way she did. Her family environment was poor and unloving. Kaia was an attention seeker and that's understandable because her act was her defensive machanism that all human has. Miranda...the girl how actually has everything (accept a boyfriend) but no one sees. She's forgiving, kind, understanding, a good friend, even though, she fell in love with Kane that I absolutely hate but without him, there's no fun. He gets into my nerves in almost every scene. His too confident personality just unbearable. Ugh!
In the end, it was pretty clear that none of the lot wanted to be themselves. They all wished that they could borrow someone else's shoes for a little while. The thing is they didn't know what behind the closed doors. They thought others' lives were better then theirs. But they're not going to say that out loud. It usually true that most of the people intended to hide their genuine feelings and desires deep down underneath and hope that no one would find out (sometimes, including themselves).
So close to 4 stars.
3.8 it is.
November 4, 2019
I read this book series back in 11th grade. I only vaguely remember them, but I know that I really liked them a lot. Envy was my favorite book in the series, according to my diary. Sloth & Gluttony were my least favorite books in the series, according to my diary entries about this book series in October 2009. I read Sloth (#5) & Gluttony (#6) before reading Wrath (#4) apparently, so I was a little bit confused by them and that may have been why I liked them a little less. I really liked Lust (#1), Envy (#2), and Pride (#3) a lot though.
February 27, 2023
7.2/10- Oh boy what a mess this has become. Harper and Kane teaming up with Kaia is definitely opening them up for a world of drama. You might have got what you wanted, but Kaia is just getting started.
Wasserman’s writing significantly improved in book 2, but the first 130 or so pages were very similar to list. But let me tell you the last 100 pages made up for it! I like how she’s bringing guilt and trust into the internal thoughts of the not so well behaved characters. Poor Miranda and Beth are so oblivious. Can’t wait for #3
Wasserman’s writing significantly improved in book 2, but the first 130 or so pages were very similar to list. But let me tell you the last 100 pages made up for it! I like how she’s bringing guilt and trust into the internal thoughts of the not so well behaved characters. Poor Miranda and Beth are so oblivious. Can’t wait for #3
August 6, 2019
Your typical high school novel with the deadly sins twist. A series of books based on the seven deadly sins. If you're looking for something to read to pass the time it is not too complex. I as an adult enjoy YA novels. I do plan on reading the next one, there is a film based on these books as well which I have watched the book does go more in depth (as usual) than the B-list actors can show haha.
February 16, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It had a “Mean Girls” vibe & very human characters. This book had 2 books in it~ lust & envy; I ordered the remaining of the 7 sins books & am waiting for them to arrive. I recommend this series to YA readers.
January 7, 2023
This second book was a little less intense because everything that happened was already foreseen and predictable. I'm anxious to see how the rest plays out..
December 3, 2023
Entrika çok. Beth ve Adem doğru insan yanlış zaman ve mekan olduğunu düşünüyorum. Yazık oldu çifte bakalım neler olacak
June 25, 2022
Loved it and hated everyone except Beth I'd die for Beth
It feels like a Jackie collins book but set in highschool and that is very high praise I'm my opinion can't wait to read the rest of the series
It feels like a Jackie collins book but set in highschool and that is very high praise I'm my opinion can't wait to read the rest of the series
March 26, 2015
“Envy” is the second book in the drama, Seven Deadly Sins series. In the first one as I read I started to learn who the characters really are and what they want. In this sequel, most of the characters have already changed. They have gotten to be more devious than ever! There is a lot more secrets and backstabbing in this book. Beth is tutoring Kane for the ACT’s, and that is all part of his plan to make Beth fall for him. Harper is helping Adam stay occupied since Beth is always with Kane. It is all part of their plan to get Beth and Adam split up so that Harper can have Adam and Kane can have Beth. It’s weird, because they are all best friends and secretly teaming up to sabatosh each others relationships just for themselves. Kaia is of course in on all the scheming, it just so happens she is helping both sides of the plan get what they want. In the end, Beth realizes she really does want Kane more than she wants Adam, and cheats on Adam. Adam goes to Harper for a shoulder to cry on, when really it was exactly what Harper was wanting since they were in kindergarten. As for Miranda, she is now kicked to the curb, since her best friend Harper is occupied by her new boyfriend. The book ends with both ‘new’ couples on a date, we’ll see how these couples last in the next book.
The main characters are Harper, who is the most popular girl in the school and town. Miranda is Harper’s best friend who is madly in love with Kane, but starts to date the new boy named Greg. Kane is the most popular guy in Grace and is in love with Beth. Beth is dating Kane’s best friend Adam, who cheated on Beth with Kaia. Kaia is also sleeping with Mr. Powell outside of school.
This book also takes place in the little hick town of Grace. It is still in present day and again many places in their town. They don’t spend as much time at school anymore, as they did in the first book. In “Envy”, we were in the locker room a good part in the book and in Beth’s house while Beth and Kane study for the ACT.
The author’s main purpose for writing this book was to entertain her audience. I think she achieved that goal and more. Everyone I have talked to that has read her series the Seven Deadly Sins has only had good things to say about it! I know I myself have enjoyed it, and I can easily relate to the series, the high school drama, the boyfriends, and the best friends. It is a drama, so it continues to be interesting all throughout the book.
I do recommend this book for older girls, because it is a drama but it is a little too much for younger kids to read. Boys probably will not be as interested in this book as girls are, because of the drama. I can’t wait to read the next one! They always leave them at cliffhangers!
The main characters are Harper, who is the most popular girl in the school and town. Miranda is Harper’s best friend who is madly in love with Kane, but starts to date the new boy named Greg. Kane is the most popular guy in Grace and is in love with Beth. Beth is dating Kane’s best friend Adam, who cheated on Beth with Kaia. Kaia is also sleeping with Mr. Powell outside of school.
This book also takes place in the little hick town of Grace. It is still in present day and again many places in their town. They don’t spend as much time at school anymore, as they did in the first book. In “Envy”, we were in the locker room a good part in the book and in Beth’s house while Beth and Kane study for the ACT.
The author’s main purpose for writing this book was to entertain her audience. I think she achieved that goal and more. Everyone I have talked to that has read her series the Seven Deadly Sins has only had good things to say about it! I know I myself have enjoyed it, and I can easily relate to the series, the high school drama, the boyfriends, and the best friends. It is a drama, so it continues to be interesting all throughout the book.
I do recommend this book for older girls, because it is a drama but it is a little too much for younger kids to read. Boys probably will not be as interested in this book as girls are, because of the drama. I can’t wait to read the next one! They always leave them at cliffhangers!
October 17, 2011
» Review can also be found on Orchids & Amethysts.
Title: Envy (Seven Deadly Sins #02)
Author: Robin Wasserman
Rating: 3/5
In the second book of the series, you get a deeper view on the characters and their stories. In addition, Robin also writes more about Miranda and Kane in this book, which I'm grateful for since they didn't take the big roles in the first book.
Harper is still wanting Adam to finally want her. So along with Kane (who still wants a little challenge named Beth, who is Adam's girlfriend) she creates a masterplan that somehow involves Kaia at some point of the story then. Kaia herself is doing her best to make the French teacher Mr. Powell losing sleep over her. (Or actually with her... Small word game here.) Still, all Miranda can see is Kane, and yet her best fiend Harper tells her to look for a little fun with someone else.
I'm not sure I liked this one better than the first. They're both good. Fact, there was more "Lust" in this book, than in "Lust" itself.
Title: Envy (Seven Deadly Sins #02)
Author: Robin Wasserman
Rating: 3/5
In the second book of the series, you get a deeper view on the characters and their stories. In addition, Robin also writes more about Miranda and Kane in this book, which I'm grateful for since they didn't take the big roles in the first book.
Harper is still wanting Adam to finally want her. So along with Kane (who still wants a little challenge named Beth, who is Adam's girlfriend) she creates a masterplan that somehow involves Kaia at some point of the story then. Kaia herself is doing her best to make the French teacher Mr. Powell losing sleep over her. (Or actually with her... Small word game here.) Still, all Miranda can see is Kane, and yet her best fiend Harper tells her to look for a little fun with someone else.
I'm not sure I liked this one better than the first. They're both good. Fact, there was more "Lust" in this book, than in "Lust" itself.
October 18, 2009
Well a girl in my school library recommended this book and I am glad she did. The only reason I got this one first because the first one "Lust" wasnt there. I was overall pleased with the story, and the story is completely immersed in drama, lust, and jealousy. I'm guessing its some-what relateable to your average small-town teenager, although I wouldnt know because I live in NYC..
The characters are similar and different in so many ways... I wanted to rip Harpers head off the entire time reading, and Kane reminded me so much of the average "player" in school. Kaia was just a funny character that is extremely bored and i wasnt mad at her for some reason... I just cant explain why. I hate Adam so much he is just stupid, and I figured that out while reading "Wrath". I feel soooo bad for Beth because everyone thinks she is so boring and plain. I just feel like no one treats her right. Harper was right that Beth & Adam were doomed, but she didnt have to cause them a nasty breakup.
The characters are similar and different in so many ways... I wanted to rip Harpers head off the entire time reading, and Kane reminded me so much of the average "player" in school. Kaia was just a funny character that is extremely bored and i wasnt mad at her for some reason... I just cant explain why. I hate Adam so much he is just stupid, and I figured that out while reading "Wrath". I feel soooo bad for Beth because everyone thinks she is so boring and plain. I just feel like no one treats her right. Harper was right that Beth & Adam were doomed, but she didnt have to cause them a nasty breakup.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2011
I was still in college when I first read one of the books in this series. To be totally honest, I read the third book first instead of the first. Yeah, I guess I am crazy. Well, I have my reason: first, that's the only book in the series available then at that bookstore and I have been compelled to buy it (though its not the first book, which is Lust). So yes, I bought and read Pride first. And I was right, it was such a good book. I bought Lust and Envy too. There's only a simple reason why I am reading this, its good. Damn good, Robin knows what this seven deadly sins and how people manifest them.
What can people do to get what they want especially if what they want is owned by another? It only takes two things: a great plan, and people to execute the plan. Kane and Harper would do anything to get what they want, at this point, anything. And it was just as convenient, that Kaia is bored and is very much willing to give them a hand.
What can people do to get what they want especially if what they want is owned by another? It only takes two things: a great plan, and people to execute the plan. Kane and Harper would do anything to get what they want, at this point, anything. And it was just as convenient, that Kaia is bored and is very much willing to give them a hand.
August 2, 2016
You know what I love when a book with only 231 pages takes 180 to get interesting. Seriously if you're thinking of reading this only read the second half.
But honestly this book was a waste of my time and I see no point in continuing with this series. The characters are all shallow and undeveloped. Every Single one of them fits into a stereotype lacking in depth. The only character that seemed to develop was Miranda (yep she was my favorite even at the end).
I had no doubt that the "Evil Plan" would work because both Beth and Adam are too stupid or too weak to just talk to each other. They were easy marks and I have no sympathy for what happened to their relationship.
I have met some pretty boring characters in my time but as a whole... this cast takes the cake.
But honestly this book was a waste of my time and I see no point in continuing with this series. The characters are all shallow and undeveloped. Every Single one of them fits into a stereotype lacking in depth. The only character that seemed to develop was Miranda (yep she was my favorite even at the end).
I had no doubt that the "Evil Plan" would work because both Beth and Adam are too stupid or too weak to just talk to each other. They were easy marks and I have no sympathy for what happened to their relationship.
I have met some pretty boring characters in my time but as a whole... this cast takes the cake.
October 30, 2007
Envy is part of a series called the seven deadly sins. It is a novel about jealousy and envy about others. A guy and a girl worked together to break up a happy couple and it worked! The original happy couple blamed one another and the story has a lot of misunderstanding of different characters. It makes me mad because the couple couldn't talk it over and broke up because of some misunderstanding. Also, betrayal is a big theme in this book. The partners got what they wanted and continued to keep their secret about breaking up their best friends' relationship.
May 26, 2008
The second installment to the Seven Deadly Sins series. It really gives you a better feel of who these characters are and how they came to be. There's an even bigger problem in this story than the last and this time, the book doesn't circle around the lust topic. This time, envy is. Kane and Harper, who usually get what they want, want to break Adam and Beth up only to benefit themselves. There are a lot of emotional parts in this book, just to let you know. There's not much to say...if you haven't read the first book, read it already!
December 9, 2010
Book Two of the Seven Deadly Sins by Robin Wasserman, has Harper plotting with Kane and Kaia to break up Adam and Beth. I am most excited to read the third book to find out more about all the deals Kane, kaia and Harper continue to come up with to ruin Beth's life. But Kane thinks he will be making Beth's life better (even though he is a snake with girls)by taking her away from Adam, after all Adam took her from Kane in the first place. Stay tuned for more good times...with this bored group from Grace California.
May 5, 2008
Really, I didn't think this book was as good as the first. Of course, sequels barely ever are. Anyways I thought the plot was good - but kind of predictable. Like I knew that Harper and Adam were going to end up together, just like Beth and Kane. In this book, one character really annoyed me. Beth - for some reason, I just hated her so much in this book. Anyways, I thought this one was all right but I'm hoping that the third is so much better than the second.
December 31, 2015
ok this one suckered me in alot more than the first. still very high school but im totally ok with that now. reading this one reminded me of the first couple seasons of one tree hill when i loved all the couples and couldnt decide who i wanted to be together! i love all the characters...or at least love to hate them lol. i was mad at myself for not grabbing the next book to take with me because i definitely did not want to wait til i got home to read it!
August 9, 2014
I am shamefully addicted to this teeny, dramatic, love-triangle ridden series. The drama is some of the best I have ever read. I would litterally love to step through the pages and slap every character. But, I love it. If you've been craving some quick teen read drama, check this series out! P.S. I'd also like to say that I love that each book is named after one of the seven deadly sins, and it's a seven book series. Love it!
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