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The Ghost Bird #1
Introductions
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
With an agoraphobic mother and a barely-there father, Sang abhors the isolation keeping her in the shadows. The only thing Sang craves is a fresh start and to be accepted as ordinary by her peers, because for her being different meant being cast out alone.
When her family moves to a new school district, Sang infiltrates a group of boys nearly perfect in every way. Grateful for an influence outside of her parents’ negativity, she quickly bonds with the boys, hoping to blend in and learn from them what it means to have a natural relationship with friends.
Only the boys have secrets of their own and they’ll do anything to keep her safe from the knowledge of the mysterious Academy that they've sworn allegiance to. Bit by bit, Sang discovers that her friends are far from the normalcy she expected. Will her loyalty change when she's forced to remain in the dark, or will she accept that she's traded one house of secrets for another?
Meet Kota, Victor, Silas, Nathan, Gabriel, Luke and North in a story about differences and loyalty, truth and mystery, friendships and heart-throbbing intimacy.
The Academy, ever vigilant.
With an agoraphobic mother and a barely-there father, Sang abhors the isolation keeping her in the shadows. The only thing Sang craves is a fresh start and to be accepted as ordinary by her peers, because for her being different meant being cast out alone.
When her family moves to a new school district, Sang infiltrates a group of boys nearly perfect in every way. Grateful for an influence outside of her parents’ negativity, she quickly bonds with the boys, hoping to blend in and learn from them what it means to have a natural relationship with friends.
Only the boys have secrets of their own and they’ll do anything to keep her safe from the knowledge of the mysterious Academy that they've sworn allegiance to. Bit by bit, Sang discovers that her friends are far from the normalcy she expected. Will her loyalty change when she's forced to remain in the dark, or will she accept that she's traded one house of secrets for another?
Meet Kota, Victor, Silas, Nathan, Gabriel, Luke and North in a story about differences and loyalty, truth and mystery, friendships and heart-throbbing intimacy.
The Academy, ever vigilant.
206 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 23, 2012
1587 people are currently reading
12327 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Stone
59 books4,351 followersC. L. Stone likes :chocolate_bar: and #findingburiedtreasure. Her books are about :revolving_hearts: and @dark_themes and #chocolatechippancakes.
If lots of book boyfriends scare you...run. Run now.
If lots of book boyfriends scare you...run. Run now.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,143 reviews
March 10, 2015
Yesterday, I walked in my sisters room to see her heavily engrossed in this novel. When I asked her if it was good, she rapidly shook her head no.
A novel that is terrible yet irresistible. Color me intrigued.
It was only after I read this that I could truly understand.
It was a massacre.
I lost so many good brain cells.
God bless the fallen.
How to explain.
This is (essentially) what I read:
Snow white runs away from her wicked stepmother trips and lands in the very welcoming arms of her dwarf friends. they want to keep her because she cooks rather nice, and, well, they are all really enjoying those hard ons she supplies with her coy looks. Does she pick one? Oh no, snow white has a voracious emotional appetite, and the cunning to secure all seven dwarfs. They promptly kiss her feet, suck her fingers, and feel up her young, tender body under the guise of checking out her injuries from all the abuse klutzilla endures. The only thing missing in this book was snow whites orgy by the pool side.
Jokes jokes. That's not it.. well not entirely. How about this version?
Young beautiful, naive, clueless, innocent, helpless, loyal (blah blah you get it) Sang Sorenson is the nicest girl on the block. Somehow she has a sweet disposition in spite of the years of abuse and neglect from her parents, and it invites seven male gods to knock down the walls around her guarded heart. No, no, these gods are not actually dwarfs, but rather dogs- Sang's made them her bitch, and not in a good way. They enjoy giving her shit and taking care of her, yet the way they treat her... Sang doesn't exist, just Soccer Ball. Everone like's Soccer Ball, cause everyone gets a turn kicking her around!
And the letdowns
Just when I thought there would be a bona fide threesome, what do i get? nothing!
Lets not forget the nicknames. It might just be me, but i felt every nickname like a bullet to my fucking brain.
I get it. You want them to all have cute nicknames for her, so we can't elevate one of these testosterone filled fucks above another. Well that would never happen, cause guess what? THEY ALL LIKE HER The. same. exact. way. literally. no difference. Yes, Yes,
I understand north has the brooding thing, Luke has the sexy face, and Gabrielle- uh i mean Gabriel- has the metro-sexual thing going on... etc. I get it. I do. But they all blush the same way, react to her giggles the same way, have the same inability to say no to her Mary Sue facial pout. Yeah, apparently Sangs pout has the ability to decimate Gabriel like a fucking avada kedavra.
When you can fit seven personalities in 3 dwarfs, the seven is just overkill. Diversity? I think not.
I'm not even gonna touch on the secret of the academy, cause to be honest, I'm not sure anyone gave a flying fuck. Everyone is entranced by the budding romance between the emotionally blind, socially inept wreck, and her seven horny, rich, stalkers/bodyguards.
I'm just trying to muse on how this would work out when the boys balls descend and they realize they actually want to fuck her. She has the perfect setup- seven dwarfs- one dwarf for every day of the week!I'm gonna amuse myself by guessing who she'll put out to first. Since the Soccer Ball is the antichrist of feminism, I'm guessing Kota with his alphaness, will win first. Hmm, lets not put Victor out of the count yet, he does buy her tons of shit. Loose riches, loose bitches. But don't worry, eager readers who are warned this book is like black tar heroin, Sang WILL get with all of the guys; that's how you play soccer after all, the ball gets passed around.
I mean its not Sangs fault almost every man with a pulse believes she'll hand out her vagina on a golden platter... And its not her fault that all the nice characters resemble abercrombie and fitch models and all the evil characters have the ugly gene... And that ALL seven boys LIKE and WANT her in their exclusive group that nobody has joined since the fourth grade. I mean really where's Grumpy? North is a piss poor replacement. Was Grumpy exiled cause he didn't agree that Sang was the equivalent of the messiah?
It's really not her fault. It's just not believable.
I think whats most embarrassing about the whole thing is that I'm almost finished with the series.
Make of that what you will.
A novel that is terrible yet irresistible. Color me intrigued.
It was only after I read this that I could truly understand.
It was a massacre.
I lost so many good brain cells.
God bless the fallen.
How to explain.
This is (essentially) what I read:
Snow white runs away from her wicked stepmother trips and lands in the very welcoming arms of her dwarf friends. they want to keep her because she cooks rather nice, and, well, they are all really enjoying those hard ons she supplies with her coy looks. Does she pick one? Oh no, snow white has a voracious emotional appetite, and the cunning to secure all seven dwarfs. They promptly kiss her feet, suck her fingers, and feel up her young, tender body under the guise of checking out her injuries from all the abuse klutzilla endures. The only thing missing in this book was snow whites orgy by the pool side.
Jokes jokes. That's not it.. well not entirely. How about this version?
Young beautiful, naive, clueless, innocent, helpless, loyal (blah blah you get it) Sang Sorenson is the nicest girl on the block. Somehow she has a sweet disposition in spite of the years of abuse and neglect from her parents, and it invites seven male gods to knock down the walls around her guarded heart. No, no, these gods are not actually dwarfs, but rather dogs- Sang's made them her bitch, and not in a good way. They enjoy giving her shit and taking care of her, yet the way they treat her... Sang doesn't exist, just Soccer Ball. Everone like's Soccer Ball, cause everyone gets a turn kicking her around!
And the letdowns
Just when I thought there would be a bona fide threesome, what do i get? nothing!
Lets not forget the nicknames. It might just be me, but i felt every nickname like a bullet to my fucking brain.
I get it. You want them to all have cute nicknames for her, so we can't elevate one of these testosterone filled fucks above another. Well that would never happen, cause guess what? THEY ALL LIKE HER The. same. exact. way. literally. no difference. Yes, Yes,
I understand north has the brooding thing, Luke has the sexy face, and Gabrielle- uh i mean Gabriel- has the metro-sexual thing going on... etc. I get it. I do. But they all blush the same way, react to her giggles the same way, have the same inability to say no to her Mary Sue facial pout. Yeah, apparently Sangs pout has the ability to decimate Gabriel like a fucking avada kedavra.
When you can fit seven personalities in 3 dwarfs, the seven is just overkill. Diversity? I think not.
I'm not even gonna touch on the secret of the academy, cause to be honest, I'm not sure anyone gave a flying fuck. Everyone is entranced by the budding romance between the emotionally blind, socially inept wreck, and her seven horny, rich, stalkers/bodyguards.
I'm just trying to muse on how this would work out when the boys balls descend and they realize they actually want to fuck her. She has the perfect setup- seven dwarfs- one dwarf for every day of the week!I'm gonna amuse myself by guessing who she'll put out to first. Since the Soccer Ball is the antichrist of feminism, I'm guessing Kota with his alphaness, will win first. Hmm, lets not put Victor out of the count yet, he does buy her tons of shit. Loose riches, loose bitches. But don't worry, eager readers who are warned this book is like black tar heroin, Sang WILL get with all of the guys; that's how you play soccer after all, the ball gets passed around.
I mean its not Sangs fault almost every man with a pulse believes she'll hand out her vagina on a golden platter... And its not her fault that all the nice characters resemble abercrombie and fitch models and all the evil characters have the ugly gene... And that ALL seven boys LIKE and WANT her in their exclusive group that nobody has joined since the fourth grade. I mean really where's Grumpy? North is a piss poor replacement. Was Grumpy exiled cause he didn't agree that Sang was the equivalent of the messiah?
It's really not her fault. It's just not believable.
I think whats most embarrassing about the whole thing is that I'm almost finished with the series.
Make of that what you will.
June 1, 2017
A book version of Japanese reverse harem animes, except everyone is suburban white. And constantly blushing.
Is the cover guy supposed to be Kota? That is SO not how I pictured him.
The Academy series revolves around Sang, your typical straight white virgin with a psychotic family, zero personality, and 9 (as in NINE) guys chasing her ass like it's God's gift to man. I would be less annoyed about this situation if any of the characters could deviate even slightly from the cliched, but nope. Sang is so dull she might as well be a mannequin - but if I hear ONE MORE BOY talking about how "you're not like other girls, Sang" I swear I will slap the offending party right out of the book. She just sits around, silently blushing and wallowing about her self esteem issues. How is this "different" or "special"??? At one point, she mentions Vivaldi's Four Seasons and everyone acts all impressed that Sang is cultured (when that piece is about as famous as you can get in terms of classical music. Come on, EVERYONE has heard of Vivaldi before.) Basically, Sang is an average girl with an average harem.
The title, "Introductions", pretty much says it all. We have a couple of chapters and Sang meets a new guy in each chapter. That's it. Nothing else happens.
I've seen many other people mention this series' frightening ability to fail as a literary work and yet still be completely addictive. I have to concur. I finished this book, thought, "Thank God that's over," then promptly reached for the next book. What is going on here?
Is the cover guy supposed to be Kota? That is SO not how I pictured him.
The Academy series revolves around Sang, your typical straight white virgin with a psychotic family, zero personality, and 9 (as in NINE) guys chasing her ass like it's God's gift to man. I would be less annoyed about this situation if any of the characters could deviate even slightly from the cliched, but nope. Sang is so dull she might as well be a mannequin - but if I hear ONE MORE BOY talking about how "you're not like other girls, Sang" I swear I will slap the offending party right out of the book. She just sits around, silently blushing and wallowing about her self esteem issues. How is this "different" or "special"??? At one point, she mentions Vivaldi's Four Seasons and everyone acts all impressed that Sang is cultured (when that piece is about as famous as you can get in terms of classical music. Come on, EVERYONE has heard of Vivaldi before.) Basically, Sang is an average girl with an average harem.
The title, "Introductions", pretty much says it all. We have a couple of chapters and Sang meets a new guy in each chapter. That's it. Nothing else happens.
I've seen many other people mention this series' frightening ability to fail as a literary work and yet still be completely addictive. I have to concur. I finished this book, thought, "Thank God that's over," then promptly reached for the next book. What is going on here?
July 30, 2016
I started reading this book because the synopsis sounded fairly interesting, and because it was free. Mostly because it was free. I kept reading because I honestly *could not believe* it was so awful. I just kept waiting for it to get better (it never happened).
I've reviewed quite a few YA books on Goodreads, Amazon, and my blog...and not one of them has been THIS BAD.
This is what happens--no spoilers, because there ISN'T ANYTHING TO SPOIL:
Sang meets each guy from this enigmatic, cliquish group, is fawned over by pretty much all of them, and blushes repeatedly because of their unexpected sympathy and friendliness. Literally. Except...no, even that makes it sound better than it is.
You may be reading this and thinking to yourself, c'mon, that's ridiculous. No book is THAT bad.
Well, dear reader, this one is.
What I describe is all that happens. Worse, it happens like 12 times because she meets a different guy in each chapter...and they all respond in the exact same way. Of course, in the beginning, it doesn't seem all that bad; you meet a nice guy who treats Sang well (unlike her psychopath of a mother), and it seems sweet. Blossoming love, perhaps? Or at least the start of a good friendship for her to finally start living. But then you realize that you're reading the same story over and over again with each new guy she's introduced to...and then you wonder, is there any point to this?
Nothing about these characters is "complex" (as another reviewer claimed); they are all practically identical to one another in personality, and all happen to fall for Sang just because. (Again, I mean that in the most literal sense imaginable.)
I am *astonished* that this book has a rating of 4 stars. I mean, seriously, I would've burned this book if it hadn't been electronic.
You might think I'm being harsh. Tactless. Heartless. Maybe I could've been more tactful. But this book deserves every single 1 star rating it receives, and I don't anyone to misunderstand my meaning when I say that this book is not worth reading, much less *buying* and reading.
If I could, I'd give this book 0 stars.
If you are contemplating reading this book, you should first contemplate whether or not you want to pluck your own eyes out with a fork. My guess is the answer will be no, and you can take that as your cue to move on.
I've reviewed quite a few YA books on Goodreads, Amazon, and my blog...and not one of them has been THIS BAD.
This is what happens--no spoilers, because there ISN'T ANYTHING TO SPOIL:
Sang meets each guy from this enigmatic, cliquish group, is fawned over by pretty much all of them, and blushes repeatedly because of their unexpected sympathy and friendliness. Literally. Except...no, even that makes it sound better than it is.
You may be reading this and thinking to yourself, c'mon, that's ridiculous. No book is THAT bad.
Well, dear reader, this one is.
What I describe is all that happens. Worse, it happens like 12 times because she meets a different guy in each chapter...and they all respond in the exact same way. Of course, in the beginning, it doesn't seem all that bad; you meet a nice guy who treats Sang well (unlike her psychopath of a mother), and it seems sweet. Blossoming love, perhaps? Or at least the start of a good friendship for her to finally start living. But then you realize that you're reading the same story over and over again with each new guy she's introduced to...and then you wonder, is there any point to this?
Nothing about these characters is "complex" (as another reviewer claimed); they are all practically identical to one another in personality, and all happen to fall for Sang just because. (Again, I mean that in the most literal sense imaginable.)
I am *astonished* that this book has a rating of 4 stars. I mean, seriously, I would've burned this book if it hadn't been electronic.
You might think I'm being harsh. Tactless. Heartless. Maybe I could've been more tactful. But this book deserves every single 1 star rating it receives, and I don't anyone to misunderstand my meaning when I say that this book is not worth reading, much less *buying* and reading.
If I could, I'd give this book 0 stars.
If you are contemplating reading this book, you should first contemplate whether or not you want to pluck your own eyes out with a fork. My guess is the answer will be no, and you can take that as your cue to move on.
Read
September 21, 2023Rating (for the whole series) : between 1 and 5 stars
Or 15 stars
Depends on the day.
Lesson 1: Have a harem, you get free stuff.
Welcome to the Academy universe. The world's most dangerous drug that no rehab can cure.
Lesson 2: Practice the magic pout, you get free stuff.
Lesson 3: Seduce a fashion wanabe, you get free stuff.
Lesson 4: Be pathetic, you get free stuff.
The Ghost Bird series is awful.
It's also one of my favorite guilty pleasures on Earth.
- We have Sang. Beautiful, cute, pretty, loyal, innocent, broken, fierce, trusting, loving, caring, adorable, perfect and dull as fuck heroine.
- We have the guys. Nineclones guys that all want a piece of her golden vagina self and are the only ones wearing clean clothes in the whole state.
- We have the Academy, which after two series and sixteen books we still know nothing about.
- And then we have some kind of mystery that after two series and sixteen books we still understand nothing about -not that we give a shit.
The perfect recipe for a disaster.
I love it.
Rules of being a Bird in a Dog world:
1. Trust the people that lie to you all the time;
2. Don't ask question about any sketchy organization;
3. Be cute;
4. Don't be black or asian, because there are none in South Carolina;
5. Blush. A lot;
6. Wear pink and like girly stuff to reassure your boys of their masculanity;
7. Be a virgin and act like it;
8. Don't wear jeans without a belt;
9. Know your classical music;
10. Be a doormat;
11. Act like a lost puppy to bring out the protective side of your numerous boyfriends.
The Ghost Bird will give you cavities with all the sweet sugary moments, will make you puke in your moutha lot a bit and will make you very disappointed with yourself half of the time.
You should definitely check it out if you haven't yet, it's so worth it.
booked.unicorn
Or 15 stars
Depends on the day.
Lesson 1: Have a harem, you get free stuff.
Welcome to the Academy universe. The world's most dangerous drug that no rehab can cure.
Lesson 2: Practice the magic pout, you get free stuff.
Lesson 3: Seduce a fashion wanabe, you get free stuff.
Lesson 4: Be pathetic, you get free stuff.
The Ghost Bird series is awful.
It's also one of my favorite guilty pleasures on Earth.
- We have Sang. Beautiful, cute, pretty, loyal, innocent, broken, fierce, trusting, loving, caring, adorable, perfect and dull as fuck heroine.
- We have the guys. Nine
- We have the Academy, which after two series and sixteen books we still know nothing about.
- And then we have some kind of mystery that after two series and sixteen books we still understand nothing about -not that we give a shit.
The perfect recipe for a disaster.
I love it.
Rules of being a Bird in a Dog world:
1. Trust the people that lie to you all the time;
2. Don't ask question about any sketchy organization;
3. Be cute;
4. Don't be black or asian, because there are none in South Carolina;
5. Blush. A lot;
6. Wear pink and like girly stuff to reassure your boys of their masculanity;
7. Be a virgin and act like it;
8. Don't wear jeans without a belt;
9. Know your classical music;
10. Be a doormat;
11. Act like a lost puppy to bring out the protective side of your numerous boyfriends.
The Ghost Bird will give you cavities with all the sweet sugary moments, will make you puke in your mouth
You should definitely check it out if you haven't yet, it's so worth it.
booked.unicorn
March 1, 2021
I
love
this series so much! I just found out about this a few days ago, and after reading the summary, I told myself that I had to read it right away, which I did! C.L Stone surpassed my expectations. It got me hooked from the first chapter. I keep wanting more! I've read all five books already, and I can't wait to read the next!
Did I mention that this series has 9 SWOON-WORTHY FICTIONAL CHARACTERS? Oh yeah.
Here's my dream cast:
SANG
KOTA
VICTOR
SILAS
NATHAN
GABRIEL
LUKE
NORTH
DR.GREEN
MR.BLACKBOURNE
Did I mention that this series has 9 SWOON-WORTHY FICTIONAL CHARACTERS? Oh yeah.
Here's my dream cast:
SANG
KOTA
VICTOR
SILAS
NATHAN
GABRIEL
LUKE
NORTH
DR.GREEN
MR.BLACKBOURNE
May 11, 2017
“Will you stop being cute? Your nose is smudging the window. My god, you’re worse than a puppy,”
My casting:
Hmm... I actually like it. Strange, considering there's an incredible weak female character.. But the more you got to know her, the more you felt protective of her. I just wanted to hide her from the cruelty in this world!
“Will you buckle in? It’s bad enough we kidnapped you.”
Luckily, now she has 7 amazing boys protecting her! There is no doubt in my mind that she will get romantic with one of them, perhaps there will even be a love triangle coming, however I'm both nervous and excited to find out who it will be :D
"I was empty. Strangers in a strange family.”
The book was not my usual kind of book.. It was a bit, I don't know, too innocent? I'm not sure this "interest" will keep up, however I cannot wait to see what will happen, to see if Song becomes a stronger person.. That will be interesting, and hopefully better than this one! It felt good to read something I'm not used to atm :) Hopefully this feeling/emotion will continue, so I can keep up with this series :)!
“Fuck thinking. Thinking hurts the team. Jump.”
March 26, 2017
Sometimes a book's ability to suck blows my mind.. It is like an accident you can not take your eyes off and each bad gory detail just leaves you stunned.
Now let me tell you the biggest NO, I mean the biggest NO - NEVER in all books.
Men telling women/girls how to dress
Men telling women/girls how to speak
Men telling women/girls how to behave
Men thinking it is "ok" to judge women/girls and tell them what is appropriate and what is not..
Men talking
I am ok with jokes..
I am ok with role play (DD/lg)..
I even love reading about H who gets all bothered and jealous about their h..
WELL I AM NOT OK WITH AUTHORS PROJECTING THE NOTION THAT IT IS OK FOR RANDOM MEN TO TELL YOUNG GIRLS/WOMEN WHAT TO DO!
In YA/NA, I see it as a recurring theme and it is not endearing or ok!
Example.. Very blatant ones at least!
"She's going home to change before she's allowed to register"
So let me get this straight, you will DENY a girl her right to education and demand she change in order for a man to control what's in his pants..
""I don't think it is appropriate for her to wear it," Mr. McCoy said."
Last time I checked.. she didn't ask you whether it was or was not..
To top it off, another man goes to justify Mr. McI-can't-keep-it-under-control-in-my-pant's behaviour..
"I think he means well."
"He reached out, surprising me and touched the collar of my shirt. he buttoned it up to the top and smoothed down the fabric of the collar. "And so you know," he said "If you wear a short skirt, you should keep your top modest. As a lady, it will make you look more elegant.""
1. Don't touch her you creep
2. Refer to the above instructions!
3. I did not know you wrote the fucking handbook on how to be a lady.. no "an elegant lady"
4.
5.
6.
7.
For god's sake someone get this author to an institution where they teach how to respect women or give the author a do over at life because if you are living your life disrespecting women you are doing it wrong!! I said it!
If she feels the need for guidance she will ask. In the end it is what makes her happy
I do not understand why it is so hard for the society to understand the small concept of a woman's/girl's happiness?
Why is a man's happiness and opinion held above a woman's???
I believe a proper review of the book has already been done by many fellow goodreaders. I just felt this concern needed to be addressed.
Now let me tell you the biggest NO, I mean the biggest NO - NEVER in all books.
Men telling women/girls how to dress
Men telling women/girls how to speak
Men telling women/girls how to behave
Men thinking it is "ok" to judge women/girls and tell them what is appropriate and what is not..
I am ok with jokes..
I am ok with role play (DD/lg)..
I even love reading about H who gets all bothered and jealous about their h..
WELL I AM NOT OK WITH AUTHORS PROJECTING THE NOTION THAT IT IS OK FOR RANDOM MEN TO TELL YOUNG GIRLS/WOMEN WHAT TO DO!
In YA/NA, I see it as a recurring theme and it is not endearing or ok!
Example.. Very blatant ones at least!
"She's going home to change before she's allowed to register"
So let me get this straight, you will DENY a girl her right to education and demand she change in order for a man to control what's in his pants..
""I don't think it is appropriate for her to wear it," Mr. McCoy said."
Last time I checked.. she didn't ask you whether it was or was not..
To top it off, another man goes to justify Mr. McI-can't-keep-it-under-control-in-my-pant's behaviour..
"I think he means well."
"He reached out, surprising me and touched the collar of my shirt. he buttoned it up to the top and smoothed down the fabric of the collar. "And so you know," he said "If you wear a short skirt, you should keep your top modest. As a lady, it will make you look more elegant.""
1. Don't touch her you creep
2. Refer to the above instructions!
3. I did not know you wrote the fucking handbook on how to be a lady.. no "an elegant lady"
4.
5.
6.
7.
For god's sake someone get this author to an institution where they teach how to respect women or give the author a do over at life because if you are living your life disrespecting women you are doing it wrong!! I said it!
If she feels the need for guidance she will ask. In the end it is what makes her happy
I do not understand why it is so hard for the society to understand the small concept of a woman's/girl's happiness?
Why is a man's happiness and opinion held above a woman's???
I believe a proper review of the book has already been done by many fellow goodreaders. I just felt this concern needed to be addressed.
May 12, 2015
I have a problem here. Legit problem.
You see this book- more like series-stands for EVERYTHING I dislike in reading. It has a weak-ass female character, cliché male leads(every single one you can think of; and notice how I said leads as in plural) and an absolutely nonexistent plot. It has such a clean romance (or nonexistent for that matter) that a freaking 10 year old could read this and just such unbelievable scenes where I'm just like WTF?!
But
I just couldn't put it down. I couldn't stop reading and I am irrevocably and irredeemably addicted-like an addict on meth- to these books. I basically stalk the author's page, like , weekly to see updates. I think she voodood-is that a word?- the books. They have a spell on me. HA! Super cheesy!
See what I mean? Legit problem.
I hand over my get out of jail free card<\b>
You see this book- more like series-stands for EVERYTHING I dislike in reading. It has a weak-ass female character, cliché male leads(every single one you can think of; and notice how I said leads as in plural) and an absolutely nonexistent plot. It has such a clean romance (or nonexistent for that matter) that a freaking 10 year old could read this and just such unbelievable scenes where I'm just like WTF?!
But
I just couldn't put it down. I couldn't stop reading and I am irrevocably and irredeemably addicted-like an addict on meth- to these books. I basically stalk the author's page, like , weekly to see updates. I think she voodood-is that a word?- the books. They have a spell on me. HA! Super cheesy!
See what I mean? Legit problem.
I hand over my get out of jail free card<\b>
Read
August 10, 2013I can't rate this book. I can find SO MANY faults with this book but I'm still dying to read the sequel. I guess I would put this under my guilty pleasure books tab in goodreads because I just couldn't stop reading this book and I have no idea why! Maybe it has something to do with the fact that it has seven hot guys in it.
You heard me ... SEVEN guys.
The plus point of this book is that there isn't a love triangle/heptagon yet and the male characters are different and draw you to the story.Each of the male characters is intriguing.The characters are just introduced in this book but I can't wait to find out more about them.
My main problem with this story so far has to be the main character.I have mixed feelings towards Sang. She's too naive,trusting and pretty much a walking cliche but I still pity her and can't seem to hate her.I think I might have liked this story much more if it was told in dual POV or from somebody else's point of view.Also, I don't like how some "issues" are being handled in this book.
The plot is interesting yet confusing at the same time.I noticed that not much happens in this book. The book's title isn't misleading at all it just introduces us to the characters and hints at some mysterious secret.I'm pretty sure the main story hasn't started yet.
Overall, I have no idea how to rate this because I couldn't put this book down no matter how much it frustrated me.I think the next book will help me decide whether this series is any good or not.
You heard me ... SEVEN guys.
The plus point of this book is that there isn't a love triangle/heptagon yet and the male characters are different and draw you to the story.Each of the male characters is intriguing.The characters are just introduced in this book but I can't wait to find out more about them.
My main problem with this story so far has to be the main character.I have mixed feelings towards Sang. She's too naive,trusting and pretty much a walking cliche but I still pity her and can't seem to hate her.I think I might have liked this story much more if it was told in dual POV or from somebody else's point of view.Also, I don't like how some "issues" are being handled in this book.
The plot is interesting yet confusing at the same time.I noticed that not much happens in this book. The book's title isn't misleading at all it just introduces us to the characters and hints at some mysterious secret.I'm pretty sure the main story hasn't started yet.
Overall, I have no idea how to rate this because I couldn't put this book down no matter how much it frustrated me.I think the next book will help me decide whether this series is any good or not.
June 7, 2018
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Sang would give anything to be able to make a fresh start and re-invent the girl-in-the-shadows she has become. Maybe this move to a new home and school would be it. Ye, Sang had no idea just how much her life would change…
C.L. Stone’s INTRODUCTIONS is exactly that, an introduction into Sang’s new world outside of her dysfunctional family’s influence. The night she met Kota would be the start of changes she could only dream of, seven model-handsome boys, all friends, all drawn to her, tuned to her needs, all students from the mysterious Academy.
As we are introduced to each boy, witness their interaction with Sang and each other, one thing that hit me was the thought: Is this a YA reverse harem story? Snow White and the Seven Dwarves?
Pretty much a meet and greet of characters, there is still an underlying mystery that begs to be revealed. At this point there really isn’t much movement, but each character is given a thorough introduction, including what seems to attract them to Sang individually.
I’m hoping the meat and potatoes of the story that is hinted at will become a full blown feast in following books!
Series: The Ghost Bird - Book 1
Publisher: Arcato Publishing; 2 edition (December 23, 2012)
Publication Date: December 23, 2012
Genre: YA
Print Length: 206 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Sang would give anything to be able to make a fresh start and re-invent the girl-in-the-shadows she has become. Maybe this move to a new home and school would be it. Ye, Sang had no idea just how much her life would change…
C.L. Stone’s INTRODUCTIONS is exactly that, an introduction into Sang’s new world outside of her dysfunctional family’s influence. The night she met Kota would be the start of changes she could only dream of, seven model-handsome boys, all friends, all drawn to her, tuned to her needs, all students from the mysterious Academy.
As we are introduced to each boy, witness their interaction with Sang and each other, one thing that hit me was the thought: Is this a YA reverse harem story? Snow White and the Seven Dwarves?
Pretty much a meet and greet of characters, there is still an underlying mystery that begs to be revealed. At this point there really isn’t much movement, but each character is given a thorough introduction, including what seems to attract them to Sang individually.
I’m hoping the meat and potatoes of the story that is hinted at will become a full blown feast in following books!
Series: The Ghost Bird - Book 1
Publisher: Arcato Publishing; 2 edition (December 23, 2012)
Publication Date: December 23, 2012
Genre: YA
Print Length: 206 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 7, 2013
Please allow me to collect my feelings over the WTF I just read emotions hanging all over me.
This is one of those series that has the addiction level of crystal meth for any book loving individual. I have to say what I expected of this book, what NOTHING that I actually got.
What I got was a pretty heavy dose of mystery, angst, underlying tones of romance, and seven--erm no--nine hot high school age boys (I kind of feel terrible calling them boys because they act way to much like men only they have all the bent up aggression that teenage boys have that is the ONLY reason this works.)
Ok.
So the lead character and narrator of our story is Sang (yeah that bothers me too. What is up with these young adult names? Is Emily or Stacey just too much to ask for? They worked well enough in Baby-Sitters Club and that was my all time fav series as a child!) its opens with what appears to be her running away from home. Then she stumbles upon Kota--aka hottie number one.
Through the course of the book Sang mets the six other boys in this odd group along with two teachers. She learns they are part of the academy and that is about all I can tell you without blowing up the whole plot.
The writing isn't totally strong. It is written for a lower age group than me and yet I was still going WTF at the end and went and bought the other two books because apparently sleep and getting actual work done wasn't an option while reading these books.
What we do know is that Sang is living in a very abusive and dysfunctional household. Her father neglects her and her mother doles out punishments that could possibly ride glaringly close to the mother in Sybil. It is a big intense and heart wrenching, and I totally believe a few, if not ALL the boys in the group are falling in love with Sang.
*I recieved a copy of this book from Aracto Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
This is one of those series that has the addiction level of crystal meth for any book loving individual. I have to say what I expected of this book, what NOTHING that I actually got.
What I got was a pretty heavy dose of mystery, angst, underlying tones of romance, and seven--erm no--nine hot high school age boys (I kind of feel terrible calling them boys because they act way to much like men only they have all the bent up aggression that teenage boys have that is the ONLY reason this works.)
Ok.
So the lead character and narrator of our story is Sang (yeah that bothers me too. What is up with these young adult names? Is Emily or Stacey just too much to ask for? They worked well enough in Baby-Sitters Club and that was my all time fav series as a child!) its opens with what appears to be her running away from home. Then she stumbles upon Kota--aka hottie number one.
Through the course of the book Sang mets the six other boys in this odd group along with two teachers. She learns they are part of the academy and that is about all I can tell you without blowing up the whole plot.
The writing isn't totally strong. It is written for a lower age group than me and yet I was still going WTF at the end and went and bought the other two books because apparently sleep and getting actual work done wasn't an option while reading these books.
What we do know is that Sang is living in a very abusive and dysfunctional household. Her father neglects her and her mother doles out punishments that could possibly ride glaringly close to the mother in Sybil. It is a big intense and heart wrenching, and I totally believe a few, if not ALL the boys in the group are falling in love with Sang.
*I recieved a copy of this book from Aracto Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
July 7, 2018
Second time read. First time review.
Introductions was an interesting book to re-dive into. I still flew through this book (and forgot to add my buddy read comments) but I also noticed some things differently too.
This book follows Sang, who honestly has a terrible family. She gets punished way too often by her mother. Her sister knows about it but does nothing to stop it because if she did she would be punished. Oh, and their father is never around.
She just wants to escape from her family one night - one freaking night guys! On that midnight stroll, she gets ambushed by a dog named Max because he tackles her and then sits on her. How freaking cute is this dog right now? He just fucking sits on her. Of course, after that she meets his owner Dakota, aka Kota. He takes her back to his house and cleans her up, offers her dry clothes, and lets her sleep the night.
From then. she meets Victor, Silas, Nathan, Gabriel, Luke, and North. Pretty sure that's the correct order in how she meets this gang of friends but I'm not 100% sure at the moment. Of course somethings happen while she's meeting each person. They oddly because super protective over her instantly - but I think it's because they all have something in common. I mean, I know what it is.. but you don't find out in this book silly gooses! Sorry that I can't spoil it for you!!
After meeting the guys, they start to figure out that her life at home isn't safe. She talks one day to them and the next she has no voice because her mother made her drink vinegar with lemon juice. All because a boy called the house phone asking for her. FOR A FREAKING PHONE CALL PEOPLE!
Let's just say it - her mother is fucking crazy people. I can't wait to see her get what she deserves for how she's treated Sang in this book. When we meet her dad, well it's pretty obvious he gives zero fucks about his family. He was way more concerned with his phone calls.
Towards the end of the book, they are all at school getting registered for classes. That is when she meets Dr. Green and Mr. Blackbourne. Let's just say I love these two men because of the other books in this series - so I was really happy to meet them again!
Overall, it was a pretty interesting book. I did take away a star though but that's just because I haven't really seen the reverse harem part yet. They are all just friends right now but you can totally see and feel the sparks blooming.
Introductions was an interesting book to re-dive into. I still flew through this book (and forgot to add my buddy read comments) but I also noticed some things differently too.
This book follows Sang, who honestly has a terrible family. She gets punished way too often by her mother. Her sister knows about it but does nothing to stop it because if she did she would be punished. Oh, and their father is never around.
She just wants to escape from her family one night - one freaking night guys! On that midnight stroll, she gets ambushed by a dog named Max because he tackles her and then sits on her. How freaking cute is this dog right now? He just fucking sits on her. Of course, after that she meets his owner Dakota, aka Kota. He takes her back to his house and cleans her up, offers her dry clothes, and lets her sleep the night.
From then. she meets Victor, Silas, Nathan, Gabriel, Luke, and North. Pretty sure that's the correct order in how she meets this gang of friends but I'm not 100% sure at the moment. Of course somethings happen while she's meeting each person. They oddly because super protective over her instantly - but I think it's because they all have something in common. I mean, I know what it is.. but you don't find out in this book silly gooses! Sorry that I can't spoil it for you!!
After meeting the guys, they start to figure out that her life at home isn't safe. She talks one day to them and the next she has no voice because her mother made her drink vinegar with lemon juice. All because a boy called the house phone asking for her. FOR A FREAKING PHONE CALL PEOPLE!
Let's just say it - her mother is fucking crazy people. I can't wait to see her get what she deserves for how she's treated Sang in this book. When we meet her dad, well it's pretty obvious he gives zero fucks about his family. He was way more concerned with his phone calls.
Towards the end of the book, they are all at school getting registered for classes. That is when she meets Dr. Green and Mr. Blackbourne. Let's just say I love these two men because of the other books in this series - so I was really happy to meet them again!
Overall, it was a pretty interesting book. I did take away a star though but that's just because I haven't really seen the reverse harem part yet. They are all just friends right now but you can totally see and feel the sparks blooming.
August 25, 2013
I received this book via Net Galley for an honest review.
When I finished this book I had to stop and think for a minute. Technically, nothing really exciting happens. It’s called Introductions, and it’s just that. Each character in the series is introduced. There are eight main characters: Sang, Kota, Nathan, Victor, Silas, Gabriel, Luke, and North. Each boy is introduced through their first meeting with Sang. We meet a few other minor characters including Sang’s deranged mother (think Mommy Dearest), her sister Marie, and two professors at the high school Mr. Blackbourne (bad cop) and Dr. Green (good cop).
Sang is extremely naïve, almost a bit overboard for me. But then again her mother is crazy and administers cruel forms of punishment on her daughters for simply talking to someone. So I guess her inexperience and social awkwardness are understandable. She is definitely a sheltered child because when she first meets Kota she follows him back to his house (in her defense she was injured when Kota’s dog pounced on her). It’s late at night, a stranger offers to help clean up a few scratches for her (even though her own house is only feet away) and she even spends the night. Basically she does every thing a girl should NOT do when meeting a total stranger.
Of course Kota is harmless and instantly needs to take care of the helpless Sang. He introduces her to his group of friends and they all immediately become protective of Sang. For her part she is just thrilled to have friends. It’s all a bit strange, which is really the entire tone of the book. Something is off or hidden from the reader and you just can’t put your finger on what it is. I know I’ve seen movies like this before. The ones where it ends and you’re left scratching your head trying to figure out what it was all about.
Sang shares several sweet moments with each of the boys making the friendships feel real. She takes an unexpected swim with Nathan after he shoves her in the pool, Silas worries about her and calls her house to make sure she's all right after a creepy run in at the mall (which leads to some crazy punishment from wacko-mom), Luke shares his dreams about opening a diner with her and there are more. Honestly the guys are too sweet, too caring, and overall just too perfect.
Other than a few run-ins with her mother and a sleezeball at the mall, not much else happens. So when I finished the book I was surprised I wanted more. I want to know what on earth the Academy is. I want to know more about the odd group of seven boys that seem too good to be true (every girl would love to be the lone female in the group). I want to know how Sang plays into everything. Why are the boys so concerned for Sang's safety at school? Who on earth are Dr. Green and Mr. Blackbourne? And what is up with Sang's deranged mother?
Overall I would place this book in the bizarre yet completely addictive category. This book is full of BOYS! I can’t understand how a book that really isn’t about anything other than character introductions left me wanting more. So I’m off to get the second book in the series, First Days, and hope that some of my burning questions are answered.
When I finished this book I had to stop and think for a minute. Technically, nothing really exciting happens. It’s called Introductions, and it’s just that. Each character in the series is introduced. There are eight main characters: Sang, Kota, Nathan, Victor, Silas, Gabriel, Luke, and North. Each boy is introduced through their first meeting with Sang. We meet a few other minor characters including Sang’s deranged mother (think Mommy Dearest), her sister Marie, and two professors at the high school Mr. Blackbourne (bad cop) and Dr. Green (good cop).
Sang is extremely naïve, almost a bit overboard for me. But then again her mother is crazy and administers cruel forms of punishment on her daughters for simply talking to someone. So I guess her inexperience and social awkwardness are understandable. She is definitely a sheltered child because when she first meets Kota she follows him back to his house (in her defense she was injured when Kota’s dog pounced on her). It’s late at night, a stranger offers to help clean up a few scratches for her (even though her own house is only feet away) and she even spends the night. Basically she does every thing a girl should NOT do when meeting a total stranger.
Of course Kota is harmless and instantly needs to take care of the helpless Sang. He introduces her to his group of friends and they all immediately become protective of Sang. For her part she is just thrilled to have friends. It’s all a bit strange, which is really the entire tone of the book. Something is off or hidden from the reader and you just can’t put your finger on what it is. I know I’ve seen movies like this before. The ones where it ends and you’re left scratching your head trying to figure out what it was all about.
Sang shares several sweet moments with each of the boys making the friendships feel real. She takes an unexpected swim with Nathan after he shoves her in the pool, Silas worries about her and calls her house to make sure she's all right after a creepy run in at the mall (which leads to some crazy punishment from wacko-mom), Luke shares his dreams about opening a diner with her and there are more. Honestly the guys are too sweet, too caring, and overall just too perfect.
Other than a few run-ins with her mother and a sleezeball at the mall, not much else happens. So when I finished the book I was surprised I wanted more. I want to know what on earth the Academy is. I want to know more about the odd group of seven boys that seem too good to be true (every girl would love to be the lone female in the group). I want to know how Sang plays into everything. Why are the boys so concerned for Sang's safety at school? Who on earth are Dr. Green and Mr. Blackbourne? And what is up with Sang's deranged mother?
Overall I would place this book in the bizarre yet completely addictive category. This book is full of BOYS! I can’t understand how a book that really isn’t about anything other than character introductions left me wanting more. So I’m off to get the second book in the series, First Days, and hope that some of my burning questions are answered.
August 3, 2013
Not to sure how to review this book. So I'll leave you with this......
THERE ARE 7 SWOON WORTHY BOYS IN THIS BOOK.
Caught your attention didn't I?!
Seriously read this book, nothing much happens but it'll hook you in!
THERE ARE 7 SWOON WORTHY BOYS IN THIS BOOK.
Caught your attention didn't I?!
Seriously read this book, nothing much happens but it'll hook you in!
February 22, 2017
Wow, what a great beginner book for a series! It is, just as the title implies, an introduction- not only to all the various complex characters, but also the the unique situation they're all in, and the mysterious and exclusive "Academy."
The depth of Sang's situation is heart-wrenching, and even more-so with the thought that there are really people who deal with the things she's dealing with. A look into her world, and her thoughts- doubts about her worth and self, especially- is only a small part of what makes this book so dynamic and intriguing.
All seven of "the guys" Sang meets and befriends are just perfect- they each have unique personalities, and are a perfect personification of the 7 typical stereotypical young guys. The nerd/leader, the serious grump/bad boy, the muscle/sweet-heart, the questionable musician, the always chipper passionate, the cocky ladies man, and the fun sporty jock. Each is a perfect depiction of a woman's image of that stereotype (and probably what every guy hopes to be, in one form or another). I found myself making comparisons to the 7 dwarfs from Snow White, and found the similarities to that story amusing. I loved each guy, and their combined concern and protectiveness for Sang makes them all that much more desirable.
The writing is very appealing- easy to read, flows smoothly and naturally. The descriptions are very well written, easily imagined, and depicted beautifully. Not overly wordy, but not something that makes you feel stupid for reading- perfect mix.
Being book one of a four book series, the ground work for the rest of the books was laid out, and very well. It's left me excited to read the rest of the series, and find out what will happen with the Academy, and Sang. I think it has the ability to be one of the next big hit series- certainly something to keep an eye on. Most definitely a book I'd recommend- it would be appealing to most women, young or old, and probably many men as well.
*I was given a complimentary eBook copy of this book, by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2016
Started and finished the first ten books in three days. Welp. I need more. My addiction is real. I can't get enough of sweet, adorable Sang and her band of sexy, heroic misfits.
This series is dangerously addictive. Seriously. Don't start unless you want to sign your heart away.
(So start it anyway. You know you want to.)
xoxo
LINA
This series is dangerously addictive. Seriously. Don't start unless you want to sign your heart away.
(So start it anyway. You know you want to.)
xoxo
LINA
October 23, 2014
*blinks in confusion*
What in the world did I just read?
Was there a plot? Was there action? I'm so confused. And yet...
... I HAVE TO READ THE NEXT ONE
This was honestly exactly like the title says. It is all introductions. But pleasant ones with hunky boys. I can't really fault Sang for being extremely confused and still somehow completely ok with it. I know I would have in high school. Hey-ooo
Moving past Sang, let's talk about "All Those Boys!" as my great-grandmother would have said. (She and her husband ran an all boys camp and she was a flapper in the 20's. She would have loved this book) A friend said it was like a harem and it really is. I love that Sang isn't taking advantage of it though. She isn't saying "Jump!" and they all attach themselves to the beams in the ceiling. Kota is clearly the ringleader of the whole thing but they are all so cute and caring. I just want to put them in my pocket and take them to concerts with me to keep the creepers away.
One bone to pick though with one boy. Of all the things in God's great universe, why in the world is one of the boys a hairdresser . When I read that, I immediately pictured my hairdresser who has a thing for sparkly jewel encrusted cowboy boots and lecturing me if I am ever late to one of his appointments. That's what I see when I envision Gabriel.
I feel like this book was set in the South just because it is supposed to be the desert of the beaux arts but it didn't really talk about that besides using our copious forests down here as an escape.
I don't want to read the next one or spend money on it...but I know I will.
What in the world did I just read?
Was there a plot? Was there action? I'm so confused. And yet...
... I HAVE TO READ THE NEXT ONE
This was honestly exactly like the title says. It is all introductions. But pleasant ones with hunky boys. I can't really fault Sang for being extremely confused and still somehow completely ok with it. I know I would have in high school. Hey-ooo
Moving past Sang, let's talk about "All Those Boys!" as my great-grandmother would have said. (She and her husband ran an all boys camp and she was a flapper in the 20's. She would have loved this book) A friend said it was like a harem and it really is. I love that Sang isn't taking advantage of it though. She isn't saying "Jump!" and they all attach themselves to the beams in the ceiling. Kota is clearly the ringleader of the whole thing but they are all so cute and caring. I just want to put them in my pocket and take them to concerts with me to keep the creepers away.
One bone to pick though with one boy. Of all the things in God's great universe, why in the world is one of the boys a hairdresser . When I read that, I immediately pictured my hairdresser who has a thing for sparkly jewel encrusted cowboy boots and lecturing me if I am ever late to one of his appointments. That's what I see when I envision Gabriel.
I feel like this book was set in the South just because it is supposed to be the desert of the beaux arts but it didn't really talk about that besides using our copious forests down here as an escape.
I don't want to read the next one or spend money on it...but I know I will.
April 21, 2013
For a starter - this book is amazing.
I've read too many books to account for, and can easily plow through 2-5 books a day if I'm not studying or working.
And sometimes after I've read a book, I would like to read it again.
This is one of those books. Usually I'm more into "kick-ass-heroines",but Sang, well she's got more strength than one can imagine.
And not to mention the boys... Oh the BOYS! Wow!
If your totally into multiple boys vs one girl, this is the book for you. And there are so many secrets and hidden factors, that just makes me want to scream for more and more and more.
I've never written a review before, but I really had to give this book and the author the credit it deserves. And I cant wait to read book 2!
SO C.L. STONE - please please please release book 2 soon.
I've read too many books to account for, and can easily plow through 2-5 books a day if I'm not studying or working.
And sometimes after I've read a book, I would like to read it again.
This is one of those books. Usually I'm more into "kick-ass-heroines",but Sang, well she's got more strength than one can imagine.
And not to mention the boys... Oh the BOYS! Wow!
If your totally into multiple boys vs one girl, this is the book for you. And there are so many secrets and hidden factors, that just makes me want to scream for more and more and more.
I've never written a review before, but I really had to give this book and the author the credit it deserves. And I cant wait to read book 2!
SO C.L. STONE - please please please release book 2 soon.
February 8, 2017
Disclaimer: I'm all for reverse harem and in no way do I intend on slut shaming. The only problem I have is with the author, not the characters. [I would say spoiler alert but I won’t bother because reading this review would save you from reading the book]
Ok I don't think I’ve ever given a book a 1 star - not even crappy fan fiction or After (fan pic made into novel) which promotes an unhealthy and abusive relationship. This is worse. It has every single YA cliché and bad trope you could think of. I was really excited to read this book because I love reverse harem in anime, but it clearly didn't translate well in books. Cringe-fest.
Premise: A girl moves into a new town (right off the bat you know it’s generic as fuck) and meets one guy every day who all belong to the same friendship quad. She has a crazy mother who never lets her go out and make friends but the boys and her become friends anyway. The end.
Yup that pretty much sums it up.
The main character Sang meets a guy every chapter which the author emphasises by naming each chapter after the boy she meets. There is NO storyline despite the author’s weak attempt, which I’m guessing is because she thought she could pull it off my captivating us with the oh-so-attractive (7+) love interests. I get that her intention is to make each novel in this series more like a chapter (like Zenith) seeing as this book only has 100 pages or so, but at least make it good.
Firstly, Sang is such a special fucking snowflake. NO. The author tries and tries to make her so unique but fails and instead make her so cliché and unlikeable. Just my luck - an annoying main character yet again. Everything is about Sang - zero world building, zero storyline, zero character development. She has no personality besides being upset and self-doubting. Her mother doesn’t want her to meet and befriend people because it is dangerous and she might get raped or kidnapped. Sounds like an overprotective mother who wants the best for her child right? However, typical YA shitty family dynamic, the author had to make the parent abusive and controlling. This is my biggest problem - the unrealistic portrayal of domestic abuse, which really hits close to home. ignore pun. The mother doesn’t beat her, doesn’t verbally abuses her, doesn’t lock her up. The one thing she did was make Sang drink a cup of lemon juice and vinegar, which for the majority of the book Sang thought was the worst thing that could ever happen to her.
Quote: ’I sighed. Kota put a hand on my back, rubbing softly as I said it as loud as I was able. “My mother made me drink a glass of lemon juice and vinegar.” It was easier to say than I thought. It was like Kota’s hand on me made me feel brave.’
The author, who seems quite unintelligent, should have know that there are people who drink vinegar for healthier reasons. Granted, lemon and vinegar are acidic but having a little sore throat isn’t the end of the fucking world. But the author goes out of her way to paint mum as the villain. i.e. she yelled at Sang to go clean her room. Wow, so evil. Forgive me if I’m being insensitive, but what the fuck, get over yourself. You’re a middle class white girl, there are children in war zones wondering if they’ll live through the day. However, her hypersensitive mum never notices when Sang is out the house. How convenient. It seems like the whole abusive parents thing is only used for the convenience of the story and to make us feel bad for Sang which is so insensitive and not ‘cool’ at all. C.L. Stone LOVES to victimise Sang. For some reason, she thinks it would be cool to make her seem so fucking weak and pitiable. For goodness’ sake, she is what 16? which means she is old enough to stand up for herself to her mum but no, of course, because ‘she’s a girl, she can’t do anything about it’. She is always the damsel in distress and one guy or another or all of them always swoops in to save her. Anti feminist, borderline sexist. E.g. she was frying some bacon and a drop of hot grease popped onto her arm which is so common yet North rushes over to help her and cooks the bacon for her. GET A FUCKING GRIP, YOU AINT A FUCKING QUEEN! Not to mention the guys have to escort her every where she goes, including school because apparently half the students are from a bad neighbourhood so it isn’t safe for her. Talk about generalisation and prejudice. Even Dr free had to help her register for class cus she was incapable of queuing up. Moreover, it is extremely unrealistic how she never had a friend in her whole lifetime. I know there are loners, but even as a child you are bound to make friends or at least play with other kids. She goes on and on about how she doesn’t know how to speak to people because she has never had a friend. Shut the fuck up, you don’t need to have friends to know how to perform basic human interactions. The author makes her so innocent and naive to such a cringe extent. Yet she, and the 7 guys, blush every other page. Sang is also overly dramatic. ‘Her heart was throbbing’ because she was only allowed 2 AP classes instead of 3 that she wanted… The horror. How will she manage. (This makes American school systems look so messy and confusing.)
C.L.Stone also loves to promote the ‘I’m not like other girls.’ trope. This is fucking sexist, pitting girl against girl. What does ‘other girls’ even mean? She’s not like other girls because she doesn’t wear make up? Doesn’t like to gossip? Doesn’t like to dress up and do girly things? Newsflash, there isn’t one particular type of girl that takes up the majority of female population. Everyone is slightly different. Plus, what’s wrong with a girly girl? By saying “she’s not like other girls”, the author is basically putting down all the other girls who is so called basic and average. Fuck off.
If this still doesn’t seem sexist to you, check this out. The 7 main guys have zero personality just like Sang and are only there to serve the purpose of eye candy. They are objectified so badly with the unnecessary over-description of their appearances which make my eyes hurt from rolling. Men aren’t mere piece of meat. The author thinks she can compensate by distributing each guy with that one particular defining trait, eg the nerd, the clown, the athlete, the foodie, the musician etc Not to mention everyone is white heterosexual! BIG DEAL BREAKER FOR ME.
The insta-love disgusts me. Okay, all insta-love is bad but some can be compensated for by a good romance. BUT NOT THIS. Within the day of meeting her, each guy had respectively:
let her sleep over at his house
bought her a phone
beat up some guys for her
invited her over and played with her in his pool
washed her hair for her
brought her to his to-be-restaurant and shared his dreams
took her on a motorbike ride
In a span of a handful of days, they all act like they’ve known each other since they popped out their mums’ vaginas. No friendship/love blooms this quickly.
Quote: ‘“You are amazing, Sang. Ever since I met you, you never once asked about the strange things you saw with us, even when I could see it in your eyes that you wanted to ask. The others could see it too. You stuck with us. You’re so sweet and considerate. We don’t want you to leave.”’
I’m sorry but what the fuck did I just read. I feel personally attacked by this bullshit. How do the reasons he provided explain why she is ‘amazing’? How does 7 guys all fall for one weak excuse of a girl?
This whole book damages the young girls who read them and expect things to turn out this way. These young girls will think that they should be weak like Sang, let their parents be abusive like Sang, go with stranger they just met just because they’re attractive like Sang, have everything spoonfed to her like Sang. That is not right. What a poor role model. It only makes the author appear sad and uneducated. Yeah, I went there. Take it personally, C.L.Stone.
Ok I don't think I’ve ever given a book a 1 star - not even crappy fan fiction or After (fan pic made into novel) which promotes an unhealthy and abusive relationship. This is worse. It has every single YA cliché and bad trope you could think of. I was really excited to read this book because I love reverse harem in anime, but it clearly didn't translate well in books. Cringe-fest.
Premise: A girl moves into a new town (right off the bat you know it’s generic as fuck) and meets one guy every day who all belong to the same friendship quad. She has a crazy mother who never lets her go out and make friends but the boys and her become friends anyway. The end.
Yup that pretty much sums it up.
The main character Sang meets a guy every chapter which the author emphasises by naming each chapter after the boy she meets. There is NO storyline despite the author’s weak attempt, which I’m guessing is because she thought she could pull it off my captivating us with the oh-so-attractive (7+) love interests. I get that her intention is to make each novel in this series more like a chapter (like Zenith) seeing as this book only has 100 pages or so, but at least make it good.
Firstly, Sang is such a special fucking snowflake. NO. The author tries and tries to make her so unique but fails and instead make her so cliché and unlikeable. Just my luck - an annoying main character yet again. Everything is about Sang - zero world building, zero storyline, zero character development. She has no personality besides being upset and self-doubting. Her mother doesn’t want her to meet and befriend people because it is dangerous and she might get raped or kidnapped. Sounds like an overprotective mother who wants the best for her child right? However, typical YA shitty family dynamic, the author had to make the parent abusive and controlling. This is my biggest problem - the unrealistic portrayal of domestic abuse, which really hits close to home. ignore pun. The mother doesn’t beat her, doesn’t verbally abuses her, doesn’t lock her up. The one thing she did was make Sang drink a cup of lemon juice and vinegar, which for the majority of the book Sang thought was the worst thing that could ever happen to her.
Quote: ’I sighed. Kota put a hand on my back, rubbing softly as I said it as loud as I was able. “My mother made me drink a glass of lemon juice and vinegar.” It was easier to say than I thought. It was like Kota’s hand on me made me feel brave.’
The author, who seems quite unintelligent, should have know that there are people who drink vinegar for healthier reasons. Granted, lemon and vinegar are acidic but having a little sore throat isn’t the end of the fucking world. But the author goes out of her way to paint mum as the villain. i.e. she yelled at Sang to go clean her room. Wow, so evil. Forgive me if I’m being insensitive, but what the fuck, get over yourself. You’re a middle class white girl, there are children in war zones wondering if they’ll live through the day. However, her hypersensitive mum never notices when Sang is out the house. How convenient. It seems like the whole abusive parents thing is only used for the convenience of the story and to make us feel bad for Sang which is so insensitive and not ‘cool’ at all. C.L. Stone LOVES to victimise Sang. For some reason, she thinks it would be cool to make her seem so fucking weak and pitiable. For goodness’ sake, she is what 16? which means she is old enough to stand up for herself to her mum but no, of course, because ‘she’s a girl, she can’t do anything about it’. She is always the damsel in distress and one guy or another or all of them always swoops in to save her. Anti feminist, borderline sexist. E.g. she was frying some bacon and a drop of hot grease popped onto her arm which is so common yet North rushes over to help her and cooks the bacon for her. GET A FUCKING GRIP, YOU AINT A FUCKING QUEEN! Not to mention the guys have to escort her every where she goes, including school because apparently half the students are from a bad neighbourhood so it isn’t safe for her. Talk about generalisation and prejudice. Even Dr free had to help her register for class cus she was incapable of queuing up. Moreover, it is extremely unrealistic how she never had a friend in her whole lifetime. I know there are loners, but even as a child you are bound to make friends or at least play with other kids. She goes on and on about how she doesn’t know how to speak to people because she has never had a friend. Shut the fuck up, you don’t need to have friends to know how to perform basic human interactions. The author makes her so innocent and naive to such a cringe extent. Yet she, and the 7 guys, blush every other page. Sang is also overly dramatic. ‘Her heart was throbbing’ because she was only allowed 2 AP classes instead of 3 that she wanted… The horror. How will she manage. (This makes American school systems look so messy and confusing.)
C.L.Stone also loves to promote the ‘I’m not like other girls.’ trope. This is fucking sexist, pitting girl against girl. What does ‘other girls’ even mean? She’s not like other girls because she doesn’t wear make up? Doesn’t like to gossip? Doesn’t like to dress up and do girly things? Newsflash, there isn’t one particular type of girl that takes up the majority of female population. Everyone is slightly different. Plus, what’s wrong with a girly girl? By saying “she’s not like other girls”, the author is basically putting down all the other girls who is so called basic and average. Fuck off.
If this still doesn’t seem sexist to you, check this out. The 7 main guys have zero personality just like Sang and are only there to serve the purpose of eye candy. They are objectified so badly with the unnecessary over-description of their appearances which make my eyes hurt from rolling. Men aren’t mere piece of meat. The author thinks she can compensate by distributing each guy with that one particular defining trait, eg the nerd, the clown, the athlete, the foodie, the musician etc Not to mention everyone is white heterosexual! BIG DEAL BREAKER FOR ME.
The insta-love disgusts me. Okay, all insta-love is bad but some can be compensated for by a good romance. BUT NOT THIS. Within the day of meeting her, each guy had respectively:
let her sleep over at his house
bought her a phone
beat up some guys for her
invited her over and played with her in his pool
washed her hair for her
brought her to his to-be-restaurant and shared his dreams
took her on a motorbike ride
In a span of a handful of days, they all act like they’ve known each other since they popped out their mums’ vaginas. No friendship/love blooms this quickly.
Quote: ‘“You are amazing, Sang. Ever since I met you, you never once asked about the strange things you saw with us, even when I could see it in your eyes that you wanted to ask. The others could see it too. You stuck with us. You’re so sweet and considerate. We don’t want you to leave.”’
I’m sorry but what the fuck did I just read. I feel personally attacked by this bullshit. How do the reasons he provided explain why she is ‘amazing’? How does 7 guys all fall for one weak excuse of a girl?
This whole book damages the young girls who read them and expect things to turn out this way. These young girls will think that they should be weak like Sang, let their parents be abusive like Sang, go with stranger they just met just because they’re attractive like Sang, have everything spoonfed to her like Sang. That is not right. What a poor role model. It only makes the author appear sad and uneducated. Yeah, I went there. Take it personally, C.L.Stone.
October 17, 2013
Never have characters in a book captured my heart like those from C.L. Stone's Academy Series!!
For the first time EVER in a romance series, I honestly have no idea which of the 7( yes I said 7...although you could honestly say 9) main male characters our heroine Sang will choose. And every time I read through the series (which is 4 times currently) I lean towards a different guy!!
I would not recommend this book for children under high school age unless you are ok with A LOT of strong language. There are also some great discussion possibilities about abuse and if Sang and the boys handle these situations in the best and safest way possible.
Do yourself a favor when downloading The Academy: Introductions and pickup First Days ($3.99) and Friends vs. Family ($3.99) while your at it. Also, don't forget to mark your calendars for 'Forgiveness and Permission' which has an estimated release date of October 29th!!
If you can't get enough of Sang and The Boys checkout the Facebook fan page - Hidden Hearts: The Academy Boys.
For the first time EVER in a romance series, I honestly have no idea which of the 7( yes I said 7...although you could honestly say 9) main male characters our heroine Sang will choose. And every time I read through the series (which is 4 times currently) I lean towards a different guy!!
I would not recommend this book for children under high school age unless you are ok with A LOT of strong language. There are also some great discussion possibilities about abuse and if Sang and the boys handle these situations in the best and safest way possible.
Do yourself a favor when downloading The Academy: Introductions and pickup First Days ($3.99) and Friends vs. Family ($3.99) while your at it. Also, don't forget to mark your calendars for 'Forgiveness and Permission' which has an estimated release date of October 29th!!
If you can't get enough of Sang and The Boys checkout the Facebook fan page - Hidden Hearts: The Academy Boys.
July 5, 2018
I really need a long series with angsty romance so let's do this!
June 1, 2021
The reviews are right. It’s super cheesy, but also well written and kind of cute? I’m rolling my eyes every page yet I’m still reading EVERY page.
Yes, I am embarrassed to say I will be reading the next book... and the in between books.
Yes, I am embarrassed to say I will be reading the next book... and the in between books.
September 23, 2013
Why did I take so long to read this? This one was one heck of a page-turner! It's so difficult to find books worthy of 3+ stars so I wasn't expecting much from this. But damn, this was amazing. The characters were all very likeable and I enjoyed every minute of getting to know them. The ending was such a dramatic cliffhanger -- I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on book two! There were some grammatical errors in some parts of the book but overall it was a really great read and I never once got bored while reading it.
Sang's strict and overbearing parents has kept her sheltered almost her entire life. She's not allowed to make friends, she doesn't own a cellphone or a laptop and her mother mistreats her at home if she doesn't act the way she's supposed to. When she meets Kota and the other boys she's thrilled and thinks that she finally has a chance at normalcy. But the smart, chivalrous and nearly-perfect guys she met aren't what they seem. They keep secrets of their own. And they have this secret language that Sang doesn't understand. Who are they really? And what is their friendship all about?
Favorite characters: Kota and Nathan. (If Sang ever gets to date one of them, I want it to be either Kota or Nathan. Sang seems to have a crush on all of them but I hope in book two she gets to uncover all of their secrets and will eventually fall for Kota. Heh.) Victor is oh-so-sophisticated in my eyes but super-friendly. I'm not sure about Gabriel... his character still confuses me. (He wasn't shown much in the book, too.) Luke was adorable! I could easily picture him in my mind. He's 'guy bestfriend' material. And North and Silas? Well, they still scare me. I have a feeling though that lurking beneath both of their huge, muscled frames is a soft side. After getting introduced to every single one of them I was feeling jealous of Sang. She's so lucky she got to befriend seven fantastic guys!
A million thanks to the author for providing me a free copy of this book. I am absolutely grateful for the opportunity to read and review your work. Looking forward to the sequel!
Sang's strict and overbearing parents has kept her sheltered almost her entire life. She's not allowed to make friends, she doesn't own a cellphone or a laptop and her mother mistreats her at home if she doesn't act the way she's supposed to. When she meets Kota and the other boys she's thrilled and thinks that she finally has a chance at normalcy. But the smart, chivalrous and nearly-perfect guys she met aren't what they seem. They keep secrets of their own. And they have this secret language that Sang doesn't understand. Who are they really? And what is their friendship all about?
Favorite characters: Kota and Nathan. (If Sang ever gets to date one of them, I want it to be either Kota or Nathan. Sang seems to have a crush on all of them but I hope in book two she gets to uncover all of their secrets and will eventually fall for Kota. Heh.) Victor is oh-so-sophisticated in my eyes but super-friendly. I'm not sure about Gabriel... his character still confuses me. (He wasn't shown much in the book, too.) Luke was adorable! I could easily picture him in my mind. He's 'guy bestfriend' material. And North and Silas? Well, they still scare me. I have a feeling though that lurking beneath both of their huge, muscled frames is a soft side. After getting introduced to every single one of them I was feeling jealous of Sang. She's so lucky she got to befriend seven fantastic guys!
A million thanks to the author for providing me a free copy of this book. I am absolutely grateful for the opportunity to read and review your work. Looking forward to the sequel!
August 15, 2013
One of the best books a I've read so far this year. The Academy- Introductions is a very intriguing and misterious book that, as its title says, is an introduction to meet the characters part of these series.
The best part: not only one guy to drool over, but SEVEN BOYS (yes...SEVEN DREAMY BOYS) and all of them are so nice and sweet (not in a boring fairy tale way)to our female character Sang, who is an isolated and insecure girl as a result of a having a paranoid mother, an absent father and a weird sister. Sang's way of being is understandable knowing the situation she lives in, and this group of guys comes right in to give her their friendship and acceptance.
I loved a lot of things about this book, mainly: 1)The mistery, the book ends and leaves you with a lot of questions about the guys, The Academy, the professors, etc. 2)Sang's awful family situation (not the family itself), I honestly get bored to read about leading characters with a perfect life and family, the wonderful cheery bff and the handsome irresistible bad boy. It probably sounds weird but I like better books with sad and hard plots not due to just a heartbreak or something like that.
I completely enjoyed reading this first part of the series (I checked and there is going to be The Academy #3, 4 and 5 *_*), and I'm at the same time suffering and looking forward for book #2, suffering because it is already published and I can't have it (excuse me for my whining), also read the excerpt and I want more.
Thanks to Patchwork Press via Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
The best part: not only one guy to drool over, but SEVEN BOYS (yes...SEVEN DREAMY BOYS) and all of them are so nice and sweet (not in a boring fairy tale way)to our female character Sang, who is an isolated and insecure girl as a result of a having a paranoid mother, an absent father and a weird sister. Sang's way of being is understandable knowing the situation she lives in, and this group of guys comes right in to give her their friendship and acceptance.
I loved a lot of things about this book, mainly: 1)The mistery, the book ends and leaves you with a lot of questions about the guys, The Academy, the professors, etc. 2)Sang's awful family situation (not the family itself), I honestly get bored to read about leading characters with a perfect life and family, the wonderful cheery bff and the handsome irresistible bad boy. It probably sounds weird but I like better books with sad and hard plots not due to just a heartbreak or something like that.
I completely enjoyed reading this first part of the series (I checked and there is going to be The Academy #3, 4 and 5 *_*), and I'm at the same time suffering and looking forward for book #2, suffering because it is already published and I can't have it (excuse me for my whining), also read the excerpt and I want more.
Thanks to Patchwork Press via Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
freebie
July 10, 2015FREEBIEE!!!! - http://amzn.to/1gsvoUq
May 20, 2013
Finished reading it recently. Got caught up with a bunch of other books so sorry it took me awhile.When I saw the title I just though, "Okay, it's the character's first day at a school." Not completely it, Almost the entire book was dedicated to introducing the guys. Should have been obvious by the title, though. I didn't like the main character. She seemed too fragile to me. I was confused by her actions with the guys. It seemed she had a crush on all of them. There were some grammar issues here and there. The whole book was a cliche to me. Received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
November 27, 2016
4.5
Wow that was awesome! But tooooooo short!
Only 163 pages, are you kidding me????
This first introduction to the series which happens to be called "Introductions" is free on Amazon Kindle, so go get it, and I dare you to deny being even a tiny bit attracted enough to keep going!
Guys there are literally 20 books in this series, although not all of them are out yet!!!! I'm so excited!
However, I was just scrolling through all the book titles and "First Kiss" is book #10. Guys, I can't wait that long!! Also how on earth am I supposed to pick only one of these seven extremely amazing males?!
Literally they are so perfect you know you're reading a book.....sadly.
So Sang kind of has a crush on these seven dudes, who are her friends, all at once. I don't blame her for it. She's innocent and naive and has an abusive mother who breathes fire at the idea of "boy." It's a new experience for her! Not only is it a new experience, but DAMN did you observe those fine specimens?
Seven guys that are all physically well-built in different ways, each unbearable attractive in a different way, all of them so kind, so gentlemanly, so supportive, so tender, and so trustworthy!?
SIGN ME UUUUP!
Buuut only if they were sophomores in college, not high school, lol ^_^
I don't yet have a favorite boy. They're all so awesome!
Sang's mother....I hate that b*tch! I don't even know what her father is up to. Nor her sister for that matter.
Why on earth has she (or the boys) not called the police to report domestic abuse yet? It's entirely justified, and she could go live with one of the boys, since she's not yet 18. Why?
Wow that was awesome! But tooooooo short!
Only 163 pages, are you kidding me????
This first introduction to the series which happens to be called "Introductions" is free on Amazon Kindle, so go get it, and I dare you to deny being even a tiny bit attracted enough to keep going!
Guys there are literally 20 books in this series, although not all of them are out yet!!!! I'm so excited!
However, I was just scrolling through all the book titles and "First Kiss" is book #10. Guys, I can't wait that long!! Also how on earth am I supposed to pick only one of these seven extremely amazing males?!
Literally they are so perfect you know you're reading a book.....sadly.
So Sang kind of has a crush on these seven dudes, who are her friends, all at once. I don't blame her for it. She's innocent and naive and has an abusive mother who breathes fire at the idea of "boy." It's a new experience for her! Not only is it a new experience, but DAMN did you observe those fine specimens?
Seven guys that are all physically well-built in different ways, each unbearable attractive in a different way, all of them so kind, so gentlemanly, so supportive, so tender, and so trustworthy!?
SIGN ME UUUUP!
Buuut only if they were sophomores in college, not high school, lol ^_^
I don't yet have a favorite boy. They're all so awesome!
Sang's mother....I hate that b*tch! I don't even know what her father is up to. Nor her sister for that matter.
Why on earth has she (or the boys) not called the police to report domestic abuse yet? It's entirely justified, and she could go live with one of the boys, since she's not yet 18. Why?
July 31, 2013
4.5 stars. This the weirdest 4.5 stars I've ever given a book. I will collect my thoughts into a coherent review soon.
I wasn't really sure how to review this book, but I tried. It was very different from anything I have been reading lately, and I REALLY ENJOYED IT. I LOVE the characters, and can't wait to see what the second book in this series has to offer.
Ok, you can find my official "review" here:
http://mereadalot.com/2013/07/30/intr...
I wasn't really sure how to review this book, but I tried. It was very different from anything I have been reading lately, and I REALLY ENJOYED IT. I LOVE the characters, and can't wait to see what the second book in this series has to offer.
Ok, you can find my official "review" here:
http://mereadalot.com/2013/07/30/intr...
April 14, 2020
A basic, guys-protect-the-girls, girl gets abused series but fun, and one that I read when I need something bad but funny.
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who am i kidding i love rereading this trashy ass book, it's my guilty pleasure ;)
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who am i kidding i love rereading this trashy ass book, it's my guilty pleasure ;)
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