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Captive Art #1
Canvas Bound
Sixteen-year-old Libby Tanner’s art comes to life. Her painted skies turn from day to night, leaves rustle on trees, and sometimes, a mystery boy appears.
While attending England’s Aldridge Art Academy, Libby meets charming Brent Henderson, a performing arts student who showers her with attention. But his rival, gorgeous Dean James, is the one who occupies her mind, even though he’s very much attached to his current girlfriend.
Libby soon learns there’s more to both Brent and Dean than she ever imagined. In order to save her future and the boy who’s captured her heart, she must unlock the secrets behind her art by entering the most dangerous place of all… the world within her paintings.
But once she steps into the canvas, she risks being trapped forever.
While attending England’s Aldridge Art Academy, Libby meets charming Brent Henderson, a performing arts student who showers her with attention. But his rival, gorgeous Dean James, is the one who occupies her mind, even though he’s very much attached to his current girlfriend.
Libby soon learns there’s more to both Brent and Dean than she ever imagined. In order to save her future and the boy who’s captured her heart, she must unlock the secrets behind her art by entering the most dangerous place of all… the world within her paintings.
But once she steps into the canvas, she risks being trapped forever.
- GenresYoung AdultFantasy
233 pages, Paperback
First published July 3, 2013
1 person is currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Laura M. Kolar
2 books14 followersLaura M. Kolar lives with her husband and daughter in a one-stop-light town in northern-lower Michigan. Though she didn’t discover her love of books until she turned thirty, as a self-declared hopeless romantic, she has spent the past few years reading and writing stories with mostly happy endings. If not at her day-job or with her family, you will find her sipping a cup of chai latte while sitting in her favorite rocking chair, hunched over her laptop writing or spending entirely too much time on Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
October 18, 2014
All Libby wants to do is paint. Unfortunately, the people outside of the world in her head (and on her canvas) expect more from her. While attending a dinner that was required by her school, she meets both Brent and Dean. Despite the fact that Dean has a girlfriend, he seems to be there every time Libby is alone - and it's a "problem" she definitely doesn't hate. She never could have guessed that things would get much weirder than just the fact that her paintings come to life. Her first year at Aldridge Art Academy is definitely not what she wanted, or expected, and it's a journey she will not soon forget.
This is definitely one of my most favorite YA books to date. The story is very interesting, the characters likable, the writing really good, and each chapter made it even more impossible for me to put down. The adventure was fun and exciting, creative, and different.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a mixture of YA and fantasy, especially if they are an aspiring artist.
My favorite character is Travis (Libby's best friend). He is just awesome and made me laugh quite a bit. He is such a good friend to Libby and his story is intriguing. I also really like Libby, which is not always the case for me when it comes to the main female characters of YA books. I usually find them annoying and immature, but Libby is not one of those typical teenage girls and, as the story goes on, she matures more than she already was.
I can't wait to read the next story in the series.
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. No other consideration was offered, expected or received.
This is definitely one of my most favorite YA books to date. The story is very interesting, the characters likable, the writing really good, and each chapter made it even more impossible for me to put down. The adventure was fun and exciting, creative, and different.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a mixture of YA and fantasy, especially if they are an aspiring artist.
My favorite character is Travis (Libby's best friend). He is just awesome and made me laugh quite a bit. He is such a good friend to Libby and his story is intriguing. I also really like Libby, which is not always the case for me when it comes to the main female characters of YA books. I usually find them annoying and immature, but Libby is not one of those typical teenage girls and, as the story goes on, she matures more than she already was.
I can't wait to read the next story in the series.
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. No other consideration was offered, expected or received.
September 19, 2013
4.5
*Book source ~ Many thanks to Red Adept for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sixteen-year-old Michigan native and art prodigy Olivia ‘Libby’ Tanner hops across the pond to attend England’s prestigious Aldridge Art Academy. All Libby wants to do is paint, but her new friend, sculptor Travis Weston, drags her to an Academy dinner where she meets performing arts student Brent Henderson. Even though Brent is handsome and charming Libby’s gut is telling her something is off about the guy. After some persuading by Brent, she ignores her instincts and agrees to go out with him. However, the guy who really catches her eye is Dean James who hangs out with Brent and who Libby seems to see everywhere. Aside from boy trouble, Libby has a secret about her art and she can’t tell anyone for fear they’ll think she’s crazy. But there’s something strange going on at Aldridge Academy and Libby doesn’t realize until nearly too late that she and her art are at the very center of it all.
This story pulled me in from the beginning like a fish on a lure. Libby is very likeable and the mystery surrounding her art kept me reading to find out what was going on. Brent wasn’t a very likeable guy and it was frustrating that Libby would ignore her gut about him. I had to remind myself that the characters are teenagers and teenagers do stupid shit, that they don’t have the benefit of experience and age. In fact, that’s one of the things that made the characters very believable. How many times did I smack my forehead and say, ‘Oh, for fuck’s sake!’ before remembering that I was no smarter than them when I was their age. In fact, I was probably (most likely) worse, so I had to cut them some slack.
While the characters could have used a bit more in-depth richness the overall story with its twists and turns was captivating. I look forward to continuing this series and discovering more about the students with the amazing abilities, where they come from and what’s their purpose. All-in-all an awesome YA cake, frosted with mystery and sprinkled with romance.
*Book source ~ Many thanks to Red Adept for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sixteen-year-old Michigan native and art prodigy Olivia ‘Libby’ Tanner hops across the pond to attend England’s prestigious Aldridge Art Academy. All Libby wants to do is paint, but her new friend, sculptor Travis Weston, drags her to an Academy dinner where she meets performing arts student Brent Henderson. Even though Brent is handsome and charming Libby’s gut is telling her something is off about the guy. After some persuading by Brent, she ignores her instincts and agrees to go out with him. However, the guy who really catches her eye is Dean James who hangs out with Brent and who Libby seems to see everywhere. Aside from boy trouble, Libby has a secret about her art and she can’t tell anyone for fear they’ll think she’s crazy. But there’s something strange going on at Aldridge Academy and Libby doesn’t realize until nearly too late that she and her art are at the very center of it all.
This story pulled me in from the beginning like a fish on a lure. Libby is very likeable and the mystery surrounding her art kept me reading to find out what was going on. Brent wasn’t a very likeable guy and it was frustrating that Libby would ignore her gut about him. I had to remind myself that the characters are teenagers and teenagers do stupid shit, that they don’t have the benefit of experience and age. In fact, that’s one of the things that made the characters very believable. How many times did I smack my forehead and say, ‘Oh, for fuck’s sake!’ before remembering that I was no smarter than them when I was their age. In fact, I was probably (most likely) worse, so I had to cut them some slack.
While the characters could have used a bit more in-depth richness the overall story with its twists and turns was captivating. I look forward to continuing this series and discovering more about the students with the amazing abilities, where they come from and what’s their purpose. All-in-all an awesome YA cake, frosted with mystery and sprinkled with romance.
August 23, 2015
I received a copy of this book from Red Adept Publishing, LLC via NG in return for an honest review.
What a pleasant surprise this book was!
Rating- 3.5 Stars.
"I wrapped my arms around him, certain I could paint the world as long as he was in it."
This book was lovely and immensely enjoyable!
As an artist this was so fun to read! Man I wish my watercolor paintings came to life! And maybe having a Dean James by my side would be nice too. *wink*
I actually liked all the characters and totally swooned at the romance too.
The thing is though, they're meant to be what 16-19 year olds? but man they are some seriously mature characters.
My only beef with this is that I didn't get any answers as to why the main character's paintings could come to life!
but other than that, it was totally worth a read!
Stay awesome!
-The Book Herald
tweet me @thebookherald
What a pleasant surprise this book was!
Rating- 3.5 Stars.
"I wrapped my arms around him, certain I could paint the world as long as he was in it."
Libby Tanner has a gift, she can paint the world like no one else can,
So talented is she that she has made millions in fortune, selling her paintings.
An academy in London begs her to attend their prestigious artistic school.
However, Libby has a secret.
Her paintings tend to come to life.
And often, a boy is one traipsing through her artistic mediums.
She has no idea who he is or how he's in the paintings but she wants to find out.
At the academy she meets two boys- one in particular that makes her heart sing sonnets.
suddenly, the academy which was filled with light and happiness becomes an abyss of plots,
darkness, betrayal and love unlike she has ever known awaits her.
This book was lovely and immensely enjoyable!
As an artist this was so fun to read! Man I wish my watercolor paintings came to life! And maybe having a Dean James by my side would be nice too. *wink*
I actually liked all the characters and totally swooned at the romance too.
The thing is though, they're meant to be what 16-19 year olds? but man they are some seriously mature characters.
My only beef with this is that I didn't get any answers as to why the main character's paintings could come to life!
but other than that, it was totally worth a read!
Stay awesome!
-The Book Herald
tweet me @thebookherald
September 22, 2015
Libby Tanner only wants to paint. She started at the age of 3 and began selling her work at 7. There's just a little something different with Libby's art, it sometimes come to life. She's convinced her parents to let her attend an art school in London where she meets Dean and Brent.
Brent seems to be the nice guy who is interested in Libby. But Libby can't help but be fascinated by Dean, the somewhat bad boy who she thinks may have a girlfriend. Libby soon finds there is a lot more going on with the boys and also with her artwork.
I really enjoyed this young adult fantasy. The characters seemed more mature than the ages given. The story wasn't the typical teen drama which on the surface looks like it might be. The story seemed to be going in the direction of a love triangle but went way beyond. With that and the world of the artwork it was completely entertaining.
A few small critiques... there were times things could've been given a bit more detail. For example, Brent and Libby go on a picnic and they fill their plates, exchange a short conversation and all of sudden they are done. Couldn't help but get a giggle thinking of speed dating. Also, I was starting to wonder if they only served turkey sandwiches at the school. Small things that could've used a bit of work in the story but didn't really hurt the plot.
Overall a fun, quick read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Brent seems to be the nice guy who is interested in Libby. But Libby can't help but be fascinated by Dean, the somewhat bad boy who she thinks may have a girlfriend. Libby soon finds there is a lot more going on with the boys and also with her artwork.
I really enjoyed this young adult fantasy. The characters seemed more mature than the ages given. The story wasn't the typical teen drama which on the surface looks like it might be. The story seemed to be going in the direction of a love triangle but went way beyond. With that and the world of the artwork it was completely entertaining.
A few small critiques... there were times things could've been given a bit more detail. For example, Brent and Libby go on a picnic and they fill their plates, exchange a short conversation and all of sudden they are done. Couldn't help but get a giggle thinking of speed dating. Also, I was starting to wonder if they only served turkey sandwiches at the school. Small things that could've used a bit of work in the story but didn't really hurt the plot.
Overall a fun, quick read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
August 27, 2015
NetGalley. Thanks for a copy.
The most similar book to Canvas Bound (that I can think of) is Darker Still. There are many differences between the two books (such as the setting and the world building and the evils-that-are), but they both share a common point: a magical painting (or in Canvas Bound's case, paintings).
Anyway, let's go back to this book.
Canvas Bound stars Libby Tanner, who is a very gifted artist. Her greatest love and joy is to draw, and her paintings are many. She is famous in the art world, and her drawings practically "come to life." (Pun sort-of intended.) She is interesting and sweet, but the story is more focused on the action and the world building.
Now, more on the world building. The world of Canvas Bound is... magical and special. Though I don't really understand how it works (or how Libby's power work), I have to assume that it is all magic. Libby's paintings move on their own, and very frequently, she will see a mysterious boy in them (no, not in a romantic way; please don't think that). The world building isn't difficult to understand at all.
The plot is slow but also steady. Don't expect painting-traveling mentioned in the synopsis to happen anytime soon. Patience is required, and I sometimes find myself tapping my foot. Thankfully, it starts speeding up towards the end.
Dean James. (Let's all collectively think of James Dean.) It is an interesting name and choice for the author, but oh, well. *shrugs* She can do whatever she likes.
Foreshadowing is easy to see. I can honestly see where the plot is going, and the surprise element is lost on me. I already predicted most of the ending, but I don't end up disappointed by Canvas Bound at all. The ending is decent.
Overall, Canvas Bound pushes too much on the foreshadowing area and contains stereotypical characters (including a gay character who is apparently a fashion expert). But it has an intriguing world of painting-powers (though I don't know how it works). Entertaining, but slow. There are some great pieces of dialogue.
Rating: Three out of Five
-ofpaperandwords.blogspot.com
The most similar book to Canvas Bound (that I can think of) is Darker Still. There are many differences between the two books (such as the setting and the world building and the evils-that-are), but they both share a common point: a magical painting (or in Canvas Bound's case, paintings).
Anyway, let's go back to this book.
Canvas Bound stars Libby Tanner, who is a very gifted artist. Her greatest love and joy is to draw, and her paintings are many. She is famous in the art world, and her drawings practically "come to life." (Pun sort-of intended.) She is interesting and sweet, but the story is more focused on the action and the world building.
Now, more on the world building. The world of Canvas Bound is... magical and special. Though I don't really understand how it works (or how Libby's power work), I have to assume that it is all magic. Libby's paintings move on their own, and very frequently, she will see a mysterious boy in them (no, not in a romantic way; please don't think that). The world building isn't difficult to understand at all.
The plot is slow but also steady. Don't expect painting-traveling mentioned in the synopsis to happen anytime soon. Patience is required, and I sometimes find myself tapping my foot. Thankfully, it starts speeding up towards the end.
Dean James. (Let's all collectively think of James Dean.) It is an interesting name and choice for the author, but oh, well. *shrugs* She can do whatever she likes.
Foreshadowing is easy to see. I can honestly see where the plot is going, and the surprise element is lost on me. I already predicted most of the ending, but I don't end up disappointed by Canvas Bound at all. The ending is decent.
Overall, Canvas Bound pushes too much on the foreshadowing area and contains stereotypical characters (including a gay character who is apparently a fashion expert). But it has an intriguing world of painting-powers (though I don't know how it works). Entertaining, but slow. There are some great pieces of dialogue.
Rating: Three out of Five
-ofpaperandwords.blogspot.com
September 13, 2013
Olivia Tanner has an unusual artistic talent, as do all the students enrolled in England’s Aldridge Art Academy. Libby, as she likes to be called, is a conservative but smart, independent, and strong-willed girl. She is a well developed protagonist and this story is told through her eyes. Although she would rather stay in her room and paint, Travis, her student liaison, has also taken it upon himself to be her social director and insists she participate in the schools activities. I LOVED his character, he is the big brother she never had growing up and their personalities played off each other well. I found the tension and drama drove the plot at a nice steady pace throughout the story, but towards the end I found it hard to put the book down.
Ms. Kolar handled her flawed characters well expressing their insecurities as well as their strengths in a believable way. I loved the way she compared nature verses nurture in the lives of Dean, Ryan, and Brent. As Libby starts to listen to her intuition she is able to see her classmates as they really are and read their true intent. It was enlightening to her as she realized that she was the only one who came from a safe and stable background. The balances of evil intentions are redefined as misguided attempts to gain self worth may be a little naïve, but this is a young adult story and I would like to see this aspect further explored as this trilogy continues.
This is a captivating story that will tug at your heart-strings and awe your senses as these young adults find their way around their lives and learn to control their abilities in a productive/positive way. These are not magical abilities as much as they are psychic connections with their chosen art form. I found the topic fascinating and I am sure you will also.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. ** Sunday, September 8, 2013
Ms. Kolar handled her flawed characters well expressing their insecurities as well as their strengths in a believable way. I loved the way she compared nature verses nurture in the lives of Dean, Ryan, and Brent. As Libby starts to listen to her intuition she is able to see her classmates as they really are and read their true intent. It was enlightening to her as she realized that she was the only one who came from a safe and stable background. The balances of evil intentions are redefined as misguided attempts to gain self worth may be a little naïve, but this is a young adult story and I would like to see this aspect further explored as this trilogy continues.
This is a captivating story that will tug at your heart-strings and awe your senses as these young adults find their way around their lives and learn to control their abilities in a productive/positive way. These are not magical abilities as much as they are psychic connections with their chosen art form. I found the topic fascinating and I am sure you will also.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. ** Sunday, September 8, 2013
September 11, 2013
When Libby ends up at a academy in England is she figures she'll be able to draw the day away but learns quickly that some boys attentions aren't always a good thing especially when Brent turns on the charm. She also finds out that she is having feelings for Dean James and what is his secret which all revolve around Libby and the boy she paints.
Between Dean and Libby they set out to save the boy in the painting named Ryan and find out what the connection between Libby, Ryan and Brent is.
This book was great and full of adventure, love and mystery. I really enjoyed it can't wait to read more by the author!
Between Dean and Libby they set out to save the boy in the painting named Ryan and find out what the connection between Libby, Ryan and Brent is.
This book was great and full of adventure, love and mystery. I really enjoyed it can't wait to read more by the author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2013
An enjoyable paranormal YA read with a unique concept. I read a lot, which probably makes me somewhat jaded, so it takes a great story to grab and hold my attention. I loved the arts backdrop of this novel, along with the interesting twist of certain students being able to walk into their paintings. I would have liked more explanation of "why" they had these abilities, but was willing to overlook that and just enjoy the ride.
Laura Kolar did an excellent job with her debut novel, and I look forward to seeing more from this promising writer in the future.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Laura Kolar did an excellent job with her debut novel, and I look forward to seeing more from this promising writer in the future.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2014
REVIEW: CANVAS BOUND (CAPTIVE ART BOOK 1) by Laura M. Kolar
CANVAS BOUND is a truly delectable, totally enjoyable paranormal YA ( but.perfectly suitable for adults as well) in a memorably magical setting ( I use magical here both figuratively and literally) and is one of those books I earmark to read again and again. That's how delightful this book is. I'm so glad it's the first of a series and eagerly await the next!
CANVAS BOUND is a truly delectable, totally enjoyable paranormal YA ( but.perfectly suitable for adults as well) in a memorably magical setting ( I use magical here both figuratively and literally) and is one of those books I earmark to read again and again. That's how delightful this book is. I'm so glad it's the first of a series and eagerly await the next!
August 12, 2016
Canvas Bound is a fun read with twists and turns, and a great new concept. I couldn't put it down.
September 22, 2013
3.5 stars
Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy Canvas Bound. I read it every free chance I had.
I was interested in Canvas Bound from the get-go because it was something different for me. I haven’t read anything quite like this. The whole concept was unique and kept me reading. I liked the idea of paintings coming to life. I like reading about artists. This book just caught my attention and I wanted to see what it was about. Canvas Bound did not disappoint.
Libby is a sweet girl. She is kind of a recluse who only wants to paint and find her mystery boy again. What she learns while at art school is astounding. Her story caught me off guard quite a few times as well. Did I guess a major plot point? Yes, but there were so many twists and turns that I wasn’t sure if I was right or not. I kept reading to find out more. I kept reading to see what would happen. I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the end.
Libby didn’t have many friends. Her only true friend, Travis, was a great guy. I liked him from the beginning. He had a wonderful personalty and he seemed to genuinely care about Libby. Dean and Brent were great characters. I didn’t expect what either of them ended up as. They both surprised me.
I know I’m a bit vague in this review, but I don’t want to spoil anything. And any little details regarding parts I really enjoyed will spoil the book, in my opinion. So, let’s leave it at this: I enjoyed this book. I want to know what happens next. It was a good read.
Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book to any YA fan, especially one who is looking for a new concept.
Will I read it again: I will not but I will read the next book in the Captive Art series. I want—no, I need—to know what happens next.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2013/09/bl...
Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy Canvas Bound. I read it every free chance I had.
I was interested in Canvas Bound from the get-go because it was something different for me. I haven’t read anything quite like this. The whole concept was unique and kept me reading. I liked the idea of paintings coming to life. I like reading about artists. This book just caught my attention and I wanted to see what it was about. Canvas Bound did not disappoint.
Libby is a sweet girl. She is kind of a recluse who only wants to paint and find her mystery boy again. What she learns while at art school is astounding. Her story caught me off guard quite a few times as well. Did I guess a major plot point? Yes, but there were so many twists and turns that I wasn’t sure if I was right or not. I kept reading to find out more. I kept reading to see what would happen. I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the end.
Libby didn’t have many friends. Her only true friend, Travis, was a great guy. I liked him from the beginning. He had a wonderful personalty and he seemed to genuinely care about Libby. Dean and Brent were great characters. I didn’t expect what either of them ended up as. They both surprised me.
I know I’m a bit vague in this review, but I don’t want to spoil anything. And any little details regarding parts I really enjoyed will spoil the book, in my opinion. So, let’s leave it at this: I enjoyed this book. I want to know what happens next. It was a good read.
Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book to any YA fan, especially one who is looking for a new concept.
Will I read it again: I will not but I will read the next book in the Captive Art series. I want—no, I need—to know what happens next.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2013/09/bl...
December 15, 2015
Full review originally posted on my blog here
http://misslittlebookaddictya.blogspo...
Libby Tanner's not your normal orphan. She can "paint the world like no one else can."
Not a bad catch line for a debut book. The cover is what first caught my eye, like any art piece (thanks to Netgalley for gifting me this book in exchange for my review)
A Michigan orphan--who has already made a fortune with her paintings, goes to a prestigious art school in England....okay a bit of a stretch, right off the cusp, but I can roll with it. Seeing a strange boy mysteriously appearing in her paintings........still okay and very intriguing. Getting to this school and never actually having a real class besides painting in her room all alone.......now you've lost me.
That doesn't even take into account the lack of adult presence at a school filled with hundreds of kids! I can't really say I liked CANVAS BOUND much, not because it was a bad story, but because it was so unbelievable, impractical and not well detailed or plotted. And the romance--way to forced and insta in a bad way. The love triangle was uncomfortable and didn't feel real, and so was most of Libby's relationships with the other characters. The most intriguing aspect of CANVAS BOUND was the back story of Libby and her real family. That is what saved this one from a worse rating.
I don't like writing these kinds of reviews, and I had hoped after sitting this one down for a while I'd like it more when i picked it up again......but no such luck.
Overall this felt very beginners fan fiction, very contrived and unfortunately--kinda something that was just out in the middle of no where. This story had great promise, and I think had the author/editors taken a more critical view of it in editing, we could have gotten a book that would hit much higher on the scale and be a stand out in YA.
Again, sorry for the harsh review, but I have to be honest. I wish Laura M. Kolar all the best in her future as an author!
Caio~
~Dynomoon
http://misslittlebookaddictya.blogspo...
Libby Tanner's not your normal orphan. She can "paint the world like no one else can."
Not a bad catch line for a debut book. The cover is what first caught my eye, like any art piece (thanks to Netgalley for gifting me this book in exchange for my review)
A Michigan orphan--who has already made a fortune with her paintings, goes to a prestigious art school in England....okay a bit of a stretch, right off the cusp, but I can roll with it. Seeing a strange boy mysteriously appearing in her paintings........still okay and very intriguing. Getting to this school and never actually having a real class besides painting in her room all alone.......now you've lost me.
That doesn't even take into account the lack of adult presence at a school filled with hundreds of kids! I can't really say I liked CANVAS BOUND much, not because it was a bad story, but because it was so unbelievable, impractical and not well detailed or plotted. And the romance--way to forced and insta in a bad way. The love triangle was uncomfortable and didn't feel real, and so was most of Libby's relationships with the other characters. The most intriguing aspect of CANVAS BOUND was the back story of Libby and her real family. That is what saved this one from a worse rating.
I don't like writing these kinds of reviews, and I had hoped after sitting this one down for a while I'd like it more when i picked it up again......but no such luck.
Overall this felt very beginners fan fiction, very contrived and unfortunately--kinda something that was just out in the middle of no where. This story had great promise, and I think had the author/editors taken a more critical view of it in editing, we could have gotten a book that would hit much higher on the scale and be a stand out in YA.
Again, sorry for the harsh review, but I have to be honest. I wish Laura M. Kolar all the best in her future as an author!
Caio~
~Dynomoon
September 12, 2013
3.5 stars
Libby is sixteen and attending an Arts school in England. She misses her parents, but is engrossed in her painting. She would love to be left alone with a canvas and paint. Her drive to paint comes from the boy that she has been seeing in her paintings for several years. She wants to capture the right picture so that he will visit. He never stays, just pops in and out.
Fortunately for her, she has a great friend at the school who makes her have a social life and cheers her up when she needs him. He is her protector and fashion coordinator. He was assigned to help her out at the school and since has become her best friend.
There are other students who play a vital role in the story. Dean and Brent hold vital positions as well as a Neeley. All of them hold keys to unlocking the secret of the missing boy, Ryan. There are secrets that need to be unlocked to figure out how to help Ryan.
I enjoyed the originality of the story. It is well written and is paced well. The author is good are revealing a little bit at a time. The full impact of the secrets is not revealed until the end. It left me surprised. There are twists and turns that keep the story interesting.
I would suggest this book to readers 17+. There are sexual situations and swearing. The 'F' bomb is used a couple of times.
Libby is sixteen and attending an Arts school in England. She misses her parents, but is engrossed in her painting. She would love to be left alone with a canvas and paint. Her drive to paint comes from the boy that she has been seeing in her paintings for several years. She wants to capture the right picture so that he will visit. He never stays, just pops in and out.
Fortunately for her, she has a great friend at the school who makes her have a social life and cheers her up when she needs him. He is her protector and fashion coordinator. He was assigned to help her out at the school and since has become her best friend.
There are other students who play a vital role in the story. Dean and Brent hold vital positions as well as a Neeley. All of them hold keys to unlocking the secret of the missing boy, Ryan. There are secrets that need to be unlocked to figure out how to help Ryan.
I enjoyed the originality of the story. It is well written and is paced well. The author is good are revealing a little bit at a time. The full impact of the secrets is not revealed until the end. It left me surprised. There are twists and turns that keep the story interesting.
I would suggest this book to readers 17+. There are sexual situations and swearing. The 'F' bomb is used a couple of times.
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