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Willow Tate #1
Trolls in the Hamptons
Willow Tate is a graphic novelist who earns enough money at her craft to keep her rent-controlled Manhattan apartment and still put food in the fridge. But when she decides to write about a ten-foot-tall troll who's a superhero, one suddenly appears, causing mayhem in Manhattan.
When no one else can see the stony red giant, Willy thinks she's gone crazy, until she meets Agent Grant from the Department of Unexplained Events. According to him, Willy has managed to break ages-old cosmic laws that could destroy the Earth as we know it. Now she has to help him save the world, rescue a little boy, and stop a murdering kidnapper who wants to use the power of a little village in the Hamptons to become master of the universe...
When no one else can see the stony red giant, Willy thinks she's gone crazy, until she meets Agent Grant from the Department of Unexplained Events. According to him, Willy has managed to break ages-old cosmic laws that could destroy the Earth as we know it. Now she has to help him save the world, rescue a little boy, and stop a murdering kidnapper who wants to use the power of a little village in the Hamptons to become master of the universe...
313 pages, Paperback
First published October 25, 2010
7 people are currently reading
420 people want to read
About the author
Celia Jerome
6 books25 followersCelia Jerome lives in Paumanok Harbor near the tip of Long Island, New York. She believes in magic, yard sales, and small dogs.
Source: http://www.celiajerome.com/AboutCelia...
Source: http://www.celiajerome.com/AboutCelia...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 5, 2010
I've just finished Celia Jerome's debut novel Trolls in the Hamptons. It's a mix of fantasy, humor, and romance, with a heavy emphasis on the romance elements, which is not an element that I personally prefer to read. The closest thing I've read that you could compare it to would be Gini Koch's Touched by an Alien, and I'd say if you enjoyed that book, you'll like Trolls in the Hamptons as well.
The general plot (without giving anything away) is that the main character, Willow Tate, is an illustrator/writer who mostly writes graphic novels for a living. Everything is going along fine, until she has this new idea for a novel involving trolls. She begins sketching out the outlines of the idea . . . and suddenly a giant, red troll--just like the one she's just drawn--appears and wreaks havoc in Manhattan outside her apartment. The problem is that no one appears to see this troll, blaming all of the damage and such on a giant red trolley, or train, or whatever. Willow tries to rationalize the experience away, but when it keeps happening--and when she gets a visit from an agent of the DUE (the Department of Unexplained Events)--it becomes more difficult. And did I mention the agent was hot?
And that's where we get into the heavy romance plot. Like I said, such plotlines are not a personal preference for me, so my focus remained on the fantasy plotline and how it developed. In general, as long as the fantasy plotline weighs in more than the romance plotline, I'm fine. Here, I'd say that the romance plotline is more important though. The fantasy plotline is there, but never really comes to the fore, even at the end. This books deals more with Willow, her love life, her fun and eccentric family and friends, and her attempts to deal with the sudden influx of magic in her life, even as she comes to realize that the magic was always there, she simply ignored it.
So, if you like romances with a splash of the fantastic interwoven into it (and I know plenty of people who do), I'd recommend this book. If you prefer more fantasy and less romance, this may not be the book for you. Willow as a main character was fun and interesting (if perhaps neurotic) and, like Tanya Huff's The Enchantment Emporium, her family is crazy and eccentric and a lot of fun as well, so I'll likely read the next instalment (coming in May 2011). Not as much action as the more Sf-oriented Touched by an Alien, but it had its moments.
The general plot (without giving anything away) is that the main character, Willow Tate, is an illustrator/writer who mostly writes graphic novels for a living. Everything is going along fine, until she has this new idea for a novel involving trolls. She begins sketching out the outlines of the idea . . . and suddenly a giant, red troll--just like the one she's just drawn--appears and wreaks havoc in Manhattan outside her apartment. The problem is that no one appears to see this troll, blaming all of the damage and such on a giant red trolley, or train, or whatever. Willow tries to rationalize the experience away, but when it keeps happening--and when she gets a visit from an agent of the DUE (the Department of Unexplained Events)--it becomes more difficult. And did I mention the agent was hot?
And that's where we get into the heavy romance plot. Like I said, such plotlines are not a personal preference for me, so my focus remained on the fantasy plotline and how it developed. In general, as long as the fantasy plotline weighs in more than the romance plotline, I'm fine. Here, I'd say that the romance plotline is more important though. The fantasy plotline is there, but never really comes to the fore, even at the end. This books deals more with Willow, her love life, her fun and eccentric family and friends, and her attempts to deal with the sudden influx of magic in her life, even as she comes to realize that the magic was always there, she simply ignored it.
So, if you like romances with a splash of the fantastic interwoven into it (and I know plenty of people who do), I'd recommend this book. If you prefer more fantasy and less romance, this may not be the book for you. Willow as a main character was fun and interesting (if perhaps neurotic) and, like Tanya Huff's The Enchantment Emporium, her family is crazy and eccentric and a lot of fun as well, so I'll likely read the next instalment (coming in May 2011). Not as much action as the more Sf-oriented Touched by an Alien, but it had its moments.
didnt-finish
June 4, 2012It's never good when you've gotten to page 77 and realized that you've been skimming for a while. The premise -- a (well-meaning but destructive) troll comes to life from the drawings of a comic book artist named Willy, after which she becomes involved with the Department of Unexplained Events -- is great fun, but the writing is flat and dull. I think the first-person narration is supposed to be breezy and chatty and a touch snarky, like Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum, but it's too labored -- too much attention to every little movement and thing Willy does, like a point-and-click game, and too much boring, unnecessary inner monologue to drudge through. I picked this up because of the title, thinking it would be hilarious and quirky, but there's too many good urban fantasy books out there to keep reading this one.
April 6, 2012
I must say that when I finished Trolls in the Hamptons, I was pretty disappointed with it. Why you might ask? After reading what the plot was about on the back cover, it sounded like the story would be an original, entertaining read with a Troll as superhero.
Well, I will give Celia Jerome credit for luring you into the story with how the first chapter started out; with Willow Tate (the protagonist of the story) coming up with a new graphic novel idea featuring a troll as the main character and getting the shock of her life when said troll comes to life and wreaks havoc in her neighborhood. After that, I went into a roller coaster ride of liking/hating/liking both Willow and her family members due to the fact of how they treated each other - like everything that has recently been going wrong in the world was Willow's fault just because she didn't follow the same life path as every other member of her family did.
Another thing that I didn't like about novel was that it had too much of a romance angle to it. Don't get me wrong, I'm not knocking the genre, but I just thought Jerome went too heavy handed with it. Some examples of what I didn't like about this are how Willow wanted to hit the sheets with the cop who first came to help in the investigation of the troll (while still dating an apparently dull boyfriend who worked on Wall Street), then dropping her lustful dreams of the cop when said cop brings the British Agent Grant to aid in their investigation a few days later and falls head over heels in love with him. I thought it was kind of hypocritical of how she was giving a cousin crap for sleeping around while acting the way she was acting. Oh well.
That said, I thought it was weird the way the novel was called Trolls in the Hamptons when there was only ONE single troll ever appeared in the story, and only Willow could see him.
In conclusion, while I found the last 4 chapters to be entertaining and kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to see what happened next, that couldn't make up for almost everything from chapters 2 through 30 that got on my nerves. It also make me somewhat reluctant to see if the series gets better with the next installment.
Well, I will give Celia Jerome credit for luring you into the story with how the first chapter started out; with Willow Tate (the protagonist of the story) coming up with a new graphic novel idea featuring a troll as the main character and getting the shock of her life when said troll comes to life and wreaks havoc in her neighborhood. After that, I went into a roller coaster ride of liking/hating/liking both Willow and her family members due to the fact of how they treated each other - like everything that has recently been going wrong in the world was Willow's fault just because she didn't follow the same life path as every other member of her family did.
Another thing that I didn't like about novel was that it had too much of a romance angle to it. Don't get me wrong, I'm not knocking the genre, but I just thought Jerome went too heavy handed with it. Some examples of what I didn't like about this are how Willow wanted to hit the sheets with the cop who first came to help in the investigation of the troll (while still dating an apparently dull boyfriend who worked on Wall Street), then dropping her lustful dreams of the cop when said cop brings the British Agent Grant to aid in their investigation a few days later and falls head over heels in love with him. I thought it was kind of hypocritical of how she was giving a cousin crap for sleeping around while acting the way she was acting. Oh well.
That said, I thought it was weird the way the novel was called Trolls in the Hamptons when there was only ONE single troll ever appeared in the story, and only Willow could see him.
In conclusion, while I found the last 4 chapters to be entertaining and kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to see what happened next, that couldn't make up for almost everything from chapters 2 through 30 that got on my nerves. It also make me somewhat reluctant to see if the series gets better with the next installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2011
A troll (singular) starts popping up in the Hamptons. No one can see the blocky creature except the comic book artist who created him. Crazy shenanigans ensue. Added bonus: one entire chapter filled with hot sex. Thankfully, not involving the troll...
Full review here: http://superheronovels.com/2010/11/21...
Full review here: http://superheronovels.com/2010/11/21...
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July 15, 2017
It had potential but some of it was not well written .
October 26, 2011
You may also read my review here: http://www.mybookishways.com/2011/10/...
I like Willow Tate. She’s a moderately successful graphic artist and writer who’s proud of the New York rent controlled apartment that her books pay for,she’s dating a “nice” guy,and things are pretty good. Until,while sketching,she looks up to see a ten foot tall red troll rampaging down the street. Make that a troll that looks suspiciously like the one that she just drew for her new book. The only problem is,no one else can see the troll,and as she starts glimpsing the big guy (who she dubs Fafhrd) around town,wreaking his particular brand of good natured havoc,Willow starts to wonder if she might be losing her marbles. Then she gets a call from her mom with the news that her dad is ill (they’re divorced),she needs to go and care for him,and won’t Willow come home to Paumanok Harbor to dogsit until she gets back? Willow finds it impossible to say no,especially after her “nice guy” boyfriend Arlen turns out to be not-so-nice. It’s not so bad,though. After all,she gets to stay in the huge mansion being rented by a Hollywood big wig,and there’s a Jacuzzi and pool. However,there are the two poodles with sensitive stomachs and a Pomeranian with an attitude that quickly attaches itself to Willow.
All is not quiet on the homefront,however. Willow soon realizes that the people she grew up with may be more “special” then she always thought,and that she herself may have powers of her own. Powers that certain bad guys will do anything to get their hands on. Add Agent Grant,of the Department of Unexplained Events (DUE),murder,a missing boy,shake it all up,and you’ve got quite a fun cocktail. Willow must do everything she can to find the missing boy,deal with her growing attraction to hottie Agent Grant,coral a gaggle of unruly dogs,and come to terms with the presence of magic in her world. Willow is a flawed heroine,much different from your usual leather-clad,kick ass chick,and that’s ok. She’s a bit neurotic,slightly insecure,and a key part of something much bigger than herself,which would be a hard thing for anyone to adjust to. Willow’s vulnerability is what makes her so likeable. I can see myself being friends with her,totally,and her family is nothing short of fascinating. Willow and Grant’s romance is a big focus (it’s fairly light on the dirty bits,but there are couple),and I promise you’ll be crushing on him too! Trolls in the Hamptons was a breath of fresh air in between your dark UF or Fantasy reads and the humor and quirky characters will have you grinning. It’s not perfect,but then,neither am I,and I always expect a few growing pains in a first novel. I’m certainly game to spend more time with Willow Tate,Agent Grant,and the rest of the Paumanok Harbor gang! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Trolls in the Hamptons to fans of UF that are in the mood for something a little lighter and packed with charm!
I like Willow Tate. She’s a moderately successful graphic artist and writer who’s proud of the New York rent controlled apartment that her books pay for,she’s dating a “nice” guy,and things are pretty good. Until,while sketching,she looks up to see a ten foot tall red troll rampaging down the street. Make that a troll that looks suspiciously like the one that she just drew for her new book. The only problem is,no one else can see the troll,and as she starts glimpsing the big guy (who she dubs Fafhrd) around town,wreaking his particular brand of good natured havoc,Willow starts to wonder if she might be losing her marbles. Then she gets a call from her mom with the news that her dad is ill (they’re divorced),she needs to go and care for him,and won’t Willow come home to Paumanok Harbor to dogsit until she gets back? Willow finds it impossible to say no,especially after her “nice guy” boyfriend Arlen turns out to be not-so-nice. It’s not so bad,though. After all,she gets to stay in the huge mansion being rented by a Hollywood big wig,and there’s a Jacuzzi and pool. However,there are the two poodles with sensitive stomachs and a Pomeranian with an attitude that quickly attaches itself to Willow.
All is not quiet on the homefront,however. Willow soon realizes that the people she grew up with may be more “special” then she always thought,and that she herself may have powers of her own. Powers that certain bad guys will do anything to get their hands on. Add Agent Grant,of the Department of Unexplained Events (DUE),murder,a missing boy,shake it all up,and you’ve got quite a fun cocktail. Willow must do everything she can to find the missing boy,deal with her growing attraction to hottie Agent Grant,coral a gaggle of unruly dogs,and come to terms with the presence of magic in her world. Willow is a flawed heroine,much different from your usual leather-clad,kick ass chick,and that’s ok. She’s a bit neurotic,slightly insecure,and a key part of something much bigger than herself,which would be a hard thing for anyone to adjust to. Willow’s vulnerability is what makes her so likeable. I can see myself being friends with her,totally,and her family is nothing short of fascinating. Willow and Grant’s romance is a big focus (it’s fairly light on the dirty bits,but there are couple),and I promise you’ll be crushing on him too! Trolls in the Hamptons was a breath of fresh air in between your dark UF or Fantasy reads and the humor and quirky characters will have you grinning. It’s not perfect,but then,neither am I,and I always expect a few growing pains in a first novel. I’m certainly game to spend more time with Willow Tate,Agent Grant,and the rest of the Paumanok Harbor gang! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Trolls in the Hamptons to fans of UF that are in the mood for something a little lighter and packed with charm!
April 1, 2011
Life was fairly unremarkable for Willow (Willy)Tate. She had a Brownstone in New York City, a somewhat boring boyfriend, and a career as a graphic novelist. Until mayhem breaks loose, and Willy is the only one who knows what’s really happening. Cue the sexy British secret agent, Grant, and a rather unexpected set of circumstances that force Willy home to the eccentric town of Paumanok Harbor, where special talents are a dime a dozen. Will Willy be able to save the world from an Evil Genius, and come to terms with her own talents?
I found Willy to be a very likeable character, with a lot of hang-ups and fears. Those fears echoed many of my own fears, so I found it easy to relate to her. While the romance added little tension to the overall story, it provides an interesting look at fate versus free will- and what we are willing to believe (or overlook) for the sake of love. I was a little annoyed with the “even though I don’t trust you, you’re hot, so get in my bed” attitude of Willy. The premise was unique, but a little predictable. Things fell into place a little too easily for my liking. Everyone was in just the right spot, with just the right talent, at just the right time.
Overall, it was a light, enjoyable read, and will probably pick up the sequel.
I found Willy to be a very likeable character, with a lot of hang-ups and fears. Those fears echoed many of my own fears, so I found it easy to relate to her. While the romance added little tension to the overall story, it provides an interesting look at fate versus free will- and what we are willing to believe (or overlook) for the sake of love. I was a little annoyed with the “even though I don’t trust you, you’re hot, so get in my bed” attitude of Willy. The premise was unique, but a little predictable. Things fell into place a little too easily for my liking. Everyone was in just the right spot, with just the right talent, at just the right time.
Overall, it was a light, enjoyable read, and will probably pick up the sequel.
June 20, 2012
The idea of Willow Tate going crazy because her comic book drawings begin coming to life was one I had to explore and I'm glad I did. This book was what I would call a fun read. No big mysteries, or life changing material here folks, but a quirky cute read all the same. I loved Willow's messed up life from her too nosy neighbor, to her Mom who seems to love dogs more than her daughter, and the weird town she grew up in where everyone seems to just magically know what everyone else is doing or about to do. I will definitely be reading the next adventures in Willow's life when I need a break from the books that make me think too hard! It was cute people - I encourage you to read it!
May 31, 2011
I liked the premise and the majority of the storyline. This is the first book in a new series, and I have the sinking suspicion that the heroine is going to play musical boyfriends but keep coming back to "the one". It feels contrived and detracted from the rest of the entertaining read. It won't stop me from holding out hope and reading the next novel, I'll just be a little bit more jaded from the onset.
October 26, 2017
This was cute, and probably funny - my sense of humor just doesn't work as well with the written word somehow. There is some 'romance' but this is more UF than PNR and the h's interactions with a crew of dogs has more screen time (and depth of emotion) than the romance - so if you are wild about furry friends they might tick this up a notch for you.
July 22, 2020
I got this one off the bargain table and bought it because of its cover and the title, which turns out to be misleading. There's only one troll.
I have mixed feelings about this "genre." It qualifies as urban fantasy, which I do like, but it is also a modern "romance," which means you get the rather detailed sex scenes. I dislike the modern "romances." I feel most of them set up unrealistic expectations, especially for young women with little or no actual sexual experience. I won't be buying the rest of the series.
That said, the book is well-written (an unbelievable number of modern romances are barely readable, with horrible grammar and poor flow). It is also original in that it doesn't have vampires, zombies, or werewolves rehashed. I can think of only one other book that has a troll as a minor character. If you don't object to the steamy sex scenes, you probably will enjoy this book.
I have mixed feelings about this "genre." It qualifies as urban fantasy, which I do like, but it is also a modern "romance," which means you get the rather detailed sex scenes. I dislike the modern "romances." I feel most of them set up unrealistic expectations, especially for young women with little or no actual sexual experience. I won't be buying the rest of the series.
That said, the book is well-written (an unbelievable number of modern romances are barely readable, with horrible grammar and poor flow). It is also original in that it doesn't have vampires, zombies, or werewolves rehashed. I can think of only one other book that has a troll as a minor character. If you don't object to the steamy sex scenes, you probably will enjoy this book.
September 6, 2018
Would not recommend this book.
Seams like an interesting idea, Graphic artist is the only one to see her creation causing havoc, but then a trite love story, ("Oh you are so sexy, but I'm a strong independent woman. lets have sex.") A forced attempt at a love triangle with a sexy cop that only shows up for a few pages, a tow filled with I think they were supposed to be "quirky" people instead they were really creepy, then it's like in the last three chapters the author remembered that there was supposed to be a story in the book.
Seams like an interesting idea, Graphic artist is the only one to see her creation causing havoc, but then a trite love story, ("Oh you are so sexy, but I'm a strong independent woman. lets have sex.") A forced attempt at a love triangle with a sexy cop that only shows up for a few pages, a tow filled with I think they were supposed to be "quirky" people instead they were really creepy, then it's like in the last three chapters the author remembered that there was supposed to be a story in the book.
November 9, 2020
I was browsing Half Price Books when I saw this title. I had been disappointed to see no new books by some of my favorite authors so this looked about right for my mood.
It was perfect for my mood! A bit cynical. A bit horny. A bit humorous. A lot of family avoidance. I was truly curious which guy she was going to choose. Usually, I get tired of too many guys but not this time.
Do I agree with her choice? Not yet but there's four more books in the series and I've ordered all four. Now I wait. Fun times!
It was perfect for my mood! A bit cynical. A bit horny. A bit humorous. A lot of family avoidance. I was truly curious which guy she was going to choose. Usually, I get tired of too many guys but not this time.
Do I agree with her choice? Not yet but there's four more books in the series and I've ordered all four. Now I wait. Fun times!
September 17, 2018
It really wasn't what I thought it would be. In some ways I was really glad for the change in story line. When the plot twist happened I found myself wanting more from this other world. I felt like the invention of this new concept wasn't fully developed, therefore stealing away from the storyline. Decently written and a very quick read. I just wanted more meat from my literary sandwich.
January 4, 2019
This book was cute. It wasn't great, but it was cute. It had lots of enjoyable rescue dogs, which was definitely a redeeming feature. However, I found the personal relationships too rushed and too quirky. The world was interesting and different. Sort of. I am unlikely to continue in the series because there was just not enough there to keep me attached.
March 22, 2018
Pretty good. I felt like the ending was a little rushed and would have liked to see more of it fleshed out but overall, pretty good. Good enough that I'm already looking for the next one. Got this one on the sale shelves at some HPB or another, wonder if they have the next?
August 4, 2019
Cute, silly and entertaining.
September 25, 2020
Fun zany series! Very differnt from your typical read
February 6, 2023
Cute concept with a touch of romance.
April 5, 2017
This is very much like Gini Koch's books but on the paranormal side instead of Aliens. Very nice read after getting used to the writing.
February 4, 2013
This is a debut work, and it shows a bit. It's a moderately self-aware urban fantasy about a graphic novelist who rapidly discovers that there are More Things in Heaven etc than she had Dreamt Of. Specifically, whenever she thinks about or draws a particular character (the titular Troll (because vampires and werewolves are so overdone)), he appears and Wreaks Havok. Unfortunately, no one else can see the troll, only the aftermath. "It was a big red... trolley? Tyrolean? Troubador?" Mysterious Hijinx ensue. Sexy local cop and Sexy British Secret Agent add the requisite romantic (tri)angle.
A couple of specific notes: First, the language occasionally didn't come off sounding quite right. At one point I found myself wondering why the protagonist didn't like contractions, but it wasn't a consistent thing, so I doubt it was a deliberate character trait as much as uneven writing. And secondly... actually, this could turn into a Rant, so I'm going to start a new paragraph.
I'm aware that my own personal history may not be typical. I accept that. Maybe this sort of thing resonates a lot more with the target demographic that I expect. But I'm getting really tired of the trope where the protagonist's family is unrelentingly horrible (or even relentingly and unevenly horrible, as in this book), but the protagonist goes along with it because "They're family, after all." If my extended or even immediate family had acted like some of the characters in this book, I'd have told them in no uncertain terms to go jump in the Sound. And to her credit, this protagonist does rail against it a fair amount-- but she does not confront them directly about it, and in fact ends up going along with everything (admittedly, there wouldn't be much book left if she didn't). And at the end, there's the requisite "See, they love me after all!" moment, which is fine, but doesn't really excuse the high-handedness, or the invasiveness, or the rudeness, or the complete disregard for her feelings, etc. etc. It's all very "We know what's best for you because Plot," and "I'm a grown woman goddam it not a child anymore but I don't want to act like it waaah except Sex."
Re-reading that, it makes this book sound lousy, and it really isn't. There's a lot of good stuff in there, and I expect I will read the (four so far) sequels. But some of the underlying attitudes on the part of some of the characters (those being restricted only to the ones with dialog (honestly, I'm going back over it in my head and I can't think of a single speaking character who isn't at some point judgemental, or an asshole, or both*)) and possibly therefore the author were starting to make me really grumpy by the time it ended.
*There is one, but she's actually specifically noted as being an Outsider to the community and events that are taking place. And yes, fine, complex three-dimensional characters yadda yadda, but this is not a long book and it happened a LOT.
A couple of specific notes: First, the language occasionally didn't come off sounding quite right. At one point I found myself wondering why the protagonist didn't like contractions, but it wasn't a consistent thing, so I doubt it was a deliberate character trait as much as uneven writing. And secondly... actually, this could turn into a Rant, so I'm going to start a new paragraph.
I'm aware that my own personal history may not be typical. I accept that. Maybe this sort of thing resonates a lot more with the target demographic that I expect. But I'm getting really tired of the trope where the protagonist's family is unrelentingly horrible (or even relentingly and unevenly horrible, as in this book), but the protagonist goes along with it because "They're family, after all." If my extended or even immediate family had acted like some of the characters in this book, I'd have told them in no uncertain terms to go jump in the Sound. And to her credit, this protagonist does rail against it a fair amount-- but she does not confront them directly about it, and in fact ends up going along with everything (admittedly, there wouldn't be much book left if she didn't). And at the end, there's the requisite "See, they love me after all!" moment, which is fine, but doesn't really excuse the high-handedness, or the invasiveness, or the rudeness, or the complete disregard for her feelings, etc. etc. It's all very "We know what's best for you because Plot," and "I'm a grown woman goddam it not a child anymore but I don't want to act like it waaah except Sex."
Re-reading that, it makes this book sound lousy, and it really isn't. There's a lot of good stuff in there, and I expect I will read the (four so far) sequels. But some of the underlying attitudes on the part of some of the characters (those being restricted only to the ones with dialog (honestly, I'm going back over it in my head and I can't think of a single speaking character who isn't at some point judgemental, or an asshole, or both*)) and possibly therefore the author were starting to make me really grumpy by the time it ended.
*There is one, but she's actually specifically noted as being an Outsider to the community and events that are taking place. And yes, fine, complex three-dimensional characters yadda yadda, but this is not a long book and it happened a LOT.
April 17, 2014
TROLLS IN THE HAMPTONS was an oddball choice for me to read. Its contemporary fantasy (not quite urban as it deals with mainly 'high end' fantasy creatures like fairies, trolls and elves), but the blurb just didn't pull me in. It kind of peaked my interest, but not anywhere near the level of 'I should read this before anything else'. It was the cover that convinced me; a realistically drawn young woman with the backdrop montage of retro-comic art.
The story takes a little while to get going. Fafhrd the big troll shows up very early on, but the actual plot to the book takes a little longer. The first third or so is taken up with what it’s like to be a moderately successful writer/artist in New York City. I recognized some of the places that Jerome mentions--definitely Penn Station and the LIRR--but I had no idea there was a 'Jitney' bus line from Manhattan to the Hamptons.
The fun begins when Willow arrives back home in Paumanok Harbor (in a truly astounding series of coincidences) and she begins to look at her neighbors and relatives in a new way. It was creepy how everyone seemed to know everything and like Willow I wondered if that was a product of being a nosy small town of the supposed powers they all had.
There are large moments of info-dumping, mostly in regards to the supernatural realm that can get long-winded and exhausting to read. Multiple times I wished that Grant was really speaking to me with his British accent because I'm convinced that's the only reason Willow was able to listen.
One of my few pet peeve tropes is used, of insta-love due to fate or genetic disposition, though Willow is a tough girl to sell. She has a lot of neurosis and that makes her skeptical about anything beyond the animal attraction she feels for Grant. Who from all accounts seems to totally deserve it. I do think Willow held onto her skepticism for far long given the evidence to the contrary, but I don't blame her.
In all this was a diverting read. I'm curious to see how the next book (Night Mares in the Hamptons, due out in May 2011) works itself out. The blurb is another one that doesn't catch me, but it makes me question the ending of this book.
Review originally posted at Night Owl Romance
The story takes a little while to get going. Fafhrd the big troll shows up very early on, but the actual plot to the book takes a little longer. The first third or so is taken up with what it’s like to be a moderately successful writer/artist in New York City. I recognized some of the places that Jerome mentions--definitely Penn Station and the LIRR--but I had no idea there was a 'Jitney' bus line from Manhattan to the Hamptons.
The fun begins when Willow arrives back home in Paumanok Harbor (in a truly astounding series of coincidences) and she begins to look at her neighbors and relatives in a new way. It was creepy how everyone seemed to know everything and like Willow I wondered if that was a product of being a nosy small town of the supposed powers they all had.
There are large moments of info-dumping, mostly in regards to the supernatural realm that can get long-winded and exhausting to read. Multiple times I wished that Grant was really speaking to me with his British accent because I'm convinced that's the only reason Willow was able to listen.
One of my few pet peeve tropes is used, of insta-love due to fate or genetic disposition, though Willow is a tough girl to sell. She has a lot of neurosis and that makes her skeptical about anything beyond the animal attraction she feels for Grant. Who from all accounts seems to totally deserve it. I do think Willow held onto her skepticism for far long given the evidence to the contrary, but I don't blame her.
In all this was a diverting read. I'm curious to see how the next book (Night Mares in the Hamptons, due out in May 2011) works itself out. The blurb is another one that doesn't catch me, but it makes me question the ending of this book.
Review originally posted at Night Owl Romance
July 6, 2014
While some of the reviews I read before starting this book, thought this had too much romance, I thought it had a good balance of fantasy and romance. I can see how someone picking it up and thinking it is straight fantasy (maybe someone who doesn't read/like romance) might be disappointed. The spine is marked as fantasy and this was in Border's (before they went out of business) fantasy/sci-fi section. This book is both.
I liked Willow. I liked how she was her own person instead of going with the status quo. Her family is fun (mostly). Her mother, on the other hand, was a bit much. Very bossy and overbearing to the point she makes plans without consulting or asking Willow and then blames her when she can't do it, is late, or just pick a reason.
I liked Willow. I liked how she was her own person instead of going with the status quo. Her family is fun (mostly). Her mother, on the other hand, was a bit much. Very bossy and overbearing to the point she makes plans without consulting or asking Willow and then blames her when she can't do it, is late, or just pick a reason.
May 5, 2015
I liked Willow, and I liked the dogs. I didn't really like how her family treated her, for the most part, and how she put up with it. But really I only rated this 2 stars because I didn't feel as though this book was very well-written. I think it was the style more than the story. The story itself was interesting...I didn't fully understand every plot twist, but I don't know if that was because it wasn't well-explained, or whether I just wasn't interested enough to read more thoroughly. Also the romance seemed to come out of nowhere and monopolize the storyline. You even get a little "red herring" romance in the form of a hot cop...until the hotter secret agent shows up.
Also, slight spoiler, he says he's destined to marry Willow, but the next 4 books seem to feature entirely new love interests for her. Maybe the author didn't think married people can have steamy sex, and therefore scrapped the idea? (I haven't read the next books and don't really have any interest in doing so, unless someone tells me the writing improves.)
Also, slight spoiler, he says he's destined to marry Willow, but the next 4 books seem to feature entirely new love interests for her. Maybe the author didn't think married people can have steamy sex, and therefore scrapped the idea? (I haven't read the next books and don't really have any interest in doing so, unless someone tells me the writing improves.)
February 15, 2016
I've been curious about this book for a long time, so I was very happy when I got it as a birthday present from Melliane.
And this is a fun and enjoyable read.
I will confess I had expected more action. Instead there's a lot of talking and small events. This could be because this is the first book in the series and the premise needs to be set up and explained to the reader. And granted: it's a very original premise, so it can't be explained just by saying 'it's magic'.
Apart from the lack of action I was very entertained by this story. At times I thought Willy is a bit dense for someone who makes her money by making up whole new worlds and stories, but overall I liked her. Of her two admirers (of course there should be a possibility for a love triangle) I thought she was falling for the wrong one, but nothing new there.
Overall this is a nice read, and if I come across the next book in this series I will certainly pick it up.
And this is a fun and enjoyable read.
I will confess I had expected more action. Instead there's a lot of talking and small events. This could be because this is the first book in the series and the premise needs to be set up and explained to the reader. And granted: it's a very original premise, so it can't be explained just by saying 'it's magic'.
Apart from the lack of action I was very entertained by this story. At times I thought Willy is a bit dense for someone who makes her money by making up whole new worlds and stories, but overall I liked her. Of her two admirers (of course there should be a possibility for a love triangle) I thought she was falling for the wrong one, but nothing new there.
Overall this is a nice read, and if I come across the next book in this series I will certainly pick it up.
February 7, 2011
This book was exactly like its cover, light-hearted and not too deep, but its a good read if you want something quick and easy. The author doesn't explore any new ground, and while the heroine is interesting and open about her short-comings, she ends up romantically entwined with the gorgeous, mysterious, and perfectly-destined-for-her English agent/titled lord. (I think it would have been more interesting for her to go with the handsome, untitled African-American cop). Besides the main character, Willy Tate, the rest of the cast seem a little flat and two-dimensional, and the ending was not suspenseful at all. But its a breezy read, and since I had just finished some rather dark books, it was right for the moment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2012
Paperback/Suburban Fantasy: The cover of this book was the buying point for me. I like graphic novels and I really wanted to like this one more. However, I hope since I also have the third book in my library, that this book is like a TV pilot and the characters will get stronger and Willow will not settle.
There were problems with the book as far as my confusion with the villain's motive and the history behind it. The book did make up for it in the character of Willow. Our heroine is a spunky little lass who narrates the book in first person. She is a bit of a doormat when it comes to her family. I am interested in reading book two to see the consequences of some of Willow decision.
There were problems with the book as far as my confusion with the villain's motive and the history behind it. The book did make up for it in the character of Willow. Our heroine is a spunky little lass who narrates the book in first person. She is a bit of a doormat when it comes to her family. I am interested in reading book two to see the consequences of some of Willow decision.
June 21, 2013
Graphic novelist Willow Tate can’t believe her eyes when a red-skinned troll appears to leap from the pages of her sketch book and into the streets of Manhattan. Things get weirder when she meets handsome Agent Grant from the so-called Department of Unexplained Events. He says a rift has opened from a fantasy world and the troll has come through to help rescue a kidnapped boy with special gifts. Willow has to help him in this search or disaster will ensue. Thus Willow gets swept up into a chaotic whirlwind involving a whole side to life that she’d only imagined on paper. Can she reconcile her views with this new reality? This entertaining tale will keep you smiling as you read about Willow’s misadventures and her introduction to another world she hadn’t known existed.
Read
November 10, 2010Sadly, DNF. Cute concept, started off promising, but the heroine was just a bit too neurotic for me and as the book went on, the writing got more stilted. The dialogue didn't sound natural, and even the first person narrative started having some issues. Plus, about 1/4 of the way through, a large area of info dump slowed the pacing considerably. I think I could have gotten past that if it had been smoothly written, but I needed the author to use contractions in her dialogue and narrative, to at least bring it into the 21st century and make it flow more naturally. Disappointing.
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