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Clearwater Witches #1
Crystal Magic
Krissa Barnette has a secret.
When she’s upset, she can hear what other people are thinking. And when she’s overwhelmed, things explode.
A move to Clearwater, Michigan, gives her the chance to reinvent herself, but a fresh start is further away than she realizes. Her abilities magnify—making her a target for Crystal Jamison and the town’s circle of witches.
Even with new friends at her side, Krissa can’t ignore the witches’ magnetic pull—especially when a strange illness rips through the town.
If Krissa doesn’t push her fears aside, she could lose more than control. Learning to wield magic could consume her. Ignoring her gift could destroy the world.
When she’s upset, she can hear what other people are thinking. And when she’s overwhelmed, things explode.
A move to Clearwater, Michigan, gives her the chance to reinvent herself, but a fresh start is further away than she realizes. Her abilities magnify—making her a target for Crystal Jamison and the town’s circle of witches.
Even with new friends at her side, Krissa can’t ignore the witches’ magnetic pull—especially when a strange illness rips through the town.
If Krissa doesn’t push her fears aside, she could lose more than control. Learning to wield magic could consume her. Ignoring her gift could destroy the world.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
August 7, 2015
When I say this book is amazing I am not joking!
I was in a slump and didn't want to read a physical book. I was randomly searching for a book to read on my ibooks and this one came up as free to download!
OK this book is most properly better then The Secret Circle series. I am so shocked that I admitted that because i love TSC but this book is everything i WISHED that would happen in TSC series!
It had magic, romance, friendship, time travel, murder. so many awesome things that really work in a witch novel!
NEED THIS SERIES IN PHYSICAL FORM
I was in a slump and didn't want to read a physical book. I was randomly searching for a book to read on my ibooks and this one came up as free to download!
OK this book is most properly better then The Secret Circle series. I am so shocked that I admitted that because i love TSC but this book is everything i WISHED that would happen in TSC series!
It had magic, romance, friendship, time travel, murder. so many awesome things that really work in a witch novel!
NEED THIS SERIES IN PHYSICAL FORM
April 30, 2016
If you enjoy being able to predict every plot, character and word before it happens because the book consists of every YA trope you can think of (*ticking off fingers* love triangle, 'the chosen one', new town, dead parents, mysterious boy, mean girl, school dance *runs out of fingers*) then this is the book for you! Me, I'll pass.
December 2, 2015
Originally published on
My Books Are Me
4.5 Stars
I love witch stories, despite not having read enough of them, so as soon as I read the synopsis of Crystal Magic, I knew it was going to be amazing, and it was!
Weird things seem to happen around Krissa, and she seems to be the cause of these disturbances. This leads her being an outcast and the target for constant bullying. However, Krissa is given a fresh start when she moves in with her aunt in Clearwater after the untimely death of her mother. Despite not having seen her aunt in years, the pair seem to get along as though they've been in constant contact, and Krissa is relieved when she has a pretty great first day at school, despite the rocky start. She instantly connects with a great group of friends, and begins to have feelings for Owen, who helped her out on her first day. It's only when she learns about Crystal Jamison, the girl who nearly ruined her first day, that she begins to discover that she may not be the only person in this town who can do weird things. Krissa is a witch and a psychic, as are a number of other residents who are descendants of the Founding Families. When her aunt is cursed, with only days to live, Krissa must join forces with Crystal and her circle in order to track down a powerful crystal and hopefully save her aunt.
I found this story to be really interesting and gripping. I really enjoyed that it didn't dive straight into the magic, and that the characters were developed before they learnt about their potential and powers. For a while there, I was dreading there would be the YA staple of a love triangle, but that dissipated (for now anyway), which I was really happy about (seriously, why do all stories need to have a love triangle? How often do they actually occur in real life?)
It was great to see a witch story that actually rings true to being a Wiccan witch. You have you're Hermione Granger witches, and then you have your Charmed One witches, and I enjoyed that this focused more Wicca and the use of energy and nature. As someone who has some knowledge of Wicca, I really appreciated being able to read a story that, while didn't actually focussed on Wicca, still portrayed its general ideas and concepts.
While this story itself was a little slow, you can see that it's setting the story up for the rest of the trilogy, so I'm glad we got the character development and world building out of the way before the real drama begins. I was not expecting the plot twist that happened right at the end, and I'm so eager for the next book as I'm excited to see where the story will go.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who loves urban fantasy and witchy stories. This story certainly has magic, drama, romance and mystery, and I'm sure you won't want to put it down once you start.
4.5 Stars
I love witch stories, despite not having read enough of them, so as soon as I read the synopsis of Crystal Magic, I knew it was going to be amazing, and it was!
Weird things seem to happen around Krissa, and she seems to be the cause of these disturbances. This leads her being an outcast and the target for constant bullying. However, Krissa is given a fresh start when she moves in with her aunt in Clearwater after the untimely death of her mother. Despite not having seen her aunt in years, the pair seem to get along as though they've been in constant contact, and Krissa is relieved when she has a pretty great first day at school, despite the rocky start. She instantly connects with a great group of friends, and begins to have feelings for Owen, who helped her out on her first day. It's only when she learns about Crystal Jamison, the girl who nearly ruined her first day, that she begins to discover that she may not be the only person in this town who can do weird things. Krissa is a witch and a psychic, as are a number of other residents who are descendants of the Founding Families. When her aunt is cursed, with only days to live, Krissa must join forces with Crystal and her circle in order to track down a powerful crystal and hopefully save her aunt.
I found this story to be really interesting and gripping. I really enjoyed that it didn't dive straight into the magic, and that the characters were developed before they learnt about their potential and powers. For a while there, I was dreading there would be the YA staple of a love triangle, but that dissipated (for now anyway), which I was really happy about (seriously, why do all stories need to have a love triangle? How often do they actually occur in real life?)
It was great to see a witch story that actually rings true to being a Wiccan witch. You have you're Hermione Granger witches, and then you have your Charmed One witches, and I enjoyed that this focused more Wicca and the use of energy and nature. As someone who has some knowledge of Wicca, I really appreciated being able to read a story that, while didn't actually focussed on Wicca, still portrayed its general ideas and concepts.
While this story itself was a little slow, you can see that it's setting the story up for the rest of the trilogy, so I'm glad we got the character development and world building out of the way before the real drama begins. I was not expecting the plot twist that happened right at the end, and I'm so eager for the next book as I'm excited to see where the story will go.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who loves urban fantasy and witchy stories. This story certainly has magic, drama, romance and mystery, and I'm sure you won't want to put it down once you start.
May 17, 2018
Happily ever after...
I found the characters and plot in Crystal Magic riveting right up to the very end...oh, wait, there was no end, happy or otherwise. If you want to find out what happened you must buy another book. Which I won't. I detest calling something a series when it in actuality you have only chopped off the last chapter(s) too sell another book. A good series is when you love the characters and want to spend more time with them on a new adventure.
I found the characters and plot in Crystal Magic riveting right up to the very end...oh, wait, there was no end, happy or otherwise. If you want to find out what happened you must buy another book. Which I won't. I detest calling something a series when it in actuality you have only chopped off the last chapter(s) too sell another book. A good series is when you love the characters and want to spend more time with them on a new adventure.
June 1, 2015
Angsty: Kristyl Barnette, our protagonist in Madeline Freeman's Crystal Magic, makes Woody Allen on a bad hair day look debonair, relaxed, assertive and cool. I don't think I have ever in my days as student, tutor, counselor or teacher seen a teenager so obsessively angsty. Oh, and obsessive. About clothes, about breaking things, about the school dance, about more clothes ...
... all along she knows she is the poltergeist in her life, and denies it, and obsesses over it ... I don't want to put spoilers in here so I won't say more about what upset me in the storyline.
What plot there is completely gets buried under all the angst and obsession. Pages and pages about 3 girls getting dressed for a dance, in excruciating detail for example. Subsequently this book is not fast moving as some other reviewers claim. It is slow. It is like trying to navigate in a strange town where the fog is so thick you can't see the houses from the edge of the kerb. I felt I wanted to skip paragraphs, pages, chapters (which is hard to do on a kindle) just to see where Ms.Freeman is going with this.
I did not finish this book in the end. It was just too cringe making. It was too painful to try and wrestle my way through it. I can make better use of my time by going to read on amateur author sites on the web, I am sorry to say.
... all along she knows she is the poltergeist in her life, and denies it, and obsesses over it ... I don't want to put spoilers in here so I won't say more about what upset me in the storyline.
What plot there is completely gets buried under all the angst and obsession. Pages and pages about 3 girls getting dressed for a dance, in excruciating detail for example. Subsequently this book is not fast moving as some other reviewers claim. It is slow. It is like trying to navigate in a strange town where the fog is so thick you can't see the houses from the edge of the kerb. I felt I wanted to skip paragraphs, pages, chapters (which is hard to do on a kindle) just to see where Ms.Freeman is going with this.
I did not finish this book in the end. It was just too cringe making. It was too painful to try and wrestle my way through it. I can make better use of my time by going to read on amateur author sites on the web, I am sorry to say.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2015
I read this book in one day, it was easy but exciting read. I loved the time travel twist and how it changed the dynamic of the main characters life. I am excited to find out where this adventure is going, as well as hoping to find out about the characters history or rather who does she get her magical powers from and where is her father are just some of the questions that the second book answers!
August 25, 2016
I feel pretty indifferent about this book. It was predictable in my opinion. There are more books and though I would like to know what happens next, I'm not sure if I'd actually take the time to keep reading this series
June 3, 2016
The cover of CRYSTAL MAGIC caught my eye and made me eager to crack into this book. Upon checking out the rest of the CLEARWATER WITCHES series, I noticed they all have beautiful covers. Kudos to the cover designer! I just love pretty books!
But did the inside deliver on its promise?
YES. Fortunately, this book didn’t disappoint. CRYSTAL MAGIC is an intriguing urban fantasy tale about witches. I was wrapped up in a magical, fictional world of witchcraft, crystals, psychics, and the paranormal. The world-building was superb.
When I read YA books, I prefer the protagonist to have a bit of a hard-edge to them – and Kristyl was about as angsty as them come. An outcast, she moves in with her Aunt after tragedy strikes. She’s hopeful for a new beginning, but as her life changes, she finds no matter where she goes, she cannot escape her past. I enjoyed her transformation from page one until the last.
I would recommend this novel to fans of urban-fantasy, young-adult reads that feature angsty teens and natural magic.
Full Review: https://awellreadwomanblog.wordpress....
But did the inside deliver on its promise?
YES. Fortunately, this book didn’t disappoint. CRYSTAL MAGIC is an intriguing urban fantasy tale about witches. I was wrapped up in a magical, fictional world of witchcraft, crystals, psychics, and the paranormal. The world-building was superb.
When I read YA books, I prefer the protagonist to have a bit of a hard-edge to them – and Kristyl was about as angsty as them come. An outcast, she moves in with her Aunt after tragedy strikes. She’s hopeful for a new beginning, but as her life changes, she finds no matter where she goes, she cannot escape her past. I enjoyed her transformation from page one until the last.
I would recommend this novel to fans of urban-fantasy, young-adult reads that feature angsty teens and natural magic.
Full Review: https://awellreadwomanblog.wordpress....
December 1, 2015
4.5 stars!
I haven't read a real book in months because I've been in such a slump and school has taken over my life - but this book was such a surprise for me! I absolutely loved it, plus it definitely got me out of my slump because all I want to do now is read now. I really liked how the magic in the story was Wiccan magic, focusing on nature and energy more so than abracadabra magic. I used to be really enthralled with learning about Wicca and Paganism, so this was totally right up my alley. ALSO, the author threw in some time travel near the end and I'm a sucker for time travel. The book was well-written, and I definitely look forward to reading the rest of the series. If you're looking for a quick read that has witchy elements, then definitely check this out! As of today, December 1, 2015, it's still free on Amazon for the kindle!
/ I'll probably write a real review eventually.
I haven't read a real book in months because I've been in such a slump and school has taken over my life - but this book was such a surprise for me! I absolutely loved it, plus it definitely got me out of my slump because all I want to do now is read now. I really liked how the magic in the story was Wiccan magic, focusing on nature and energy more so than abracadabra magic. I used to be really enthralled with learning about Wicca and Paganism, so this was totally right up my alley. ALSO, the author threw in some time travel near the end and I'm a sucker for time travel. The book was well-written, and I definitely look forward to reading the rest of the series. If you're looking for a quick read that has witchy elements, then definitely check this out! As of today, December 1, 2015, it's still free on Amazon for the kindle!
/ I'll probably write a real review eventually.
September 20, 2014
Thank you to Xpresso Book Tours and author Madeline Freeman for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Crystal Magic by Madeline Freeman is a bewitching and magical story that will easily entertain and leave the reader ready for more with its fun storyline, romance and friendship!
I have to say, Crystal Magic was a really fun book to read. It was light and entertaining and easily kept me reading along; it was just an all-round good book to read. Madeline Freeman’s writing was flowing and detailed and easy to read. The story was well plotted and weaves friendship perfectly with the magical element that encompasses the story.
Following sixteen year old Kristyl Barnette a young woman who has spent the last few years of her life as an outcast and social pariah thanks to the things she can do and the strange occurrences that seem to happen in her presence, Crystal Magic sees Kristyl move to the small town of Clearwater when a tragedy forces to move in with her estranged aunt. Still reeling from her loss, Kristyl finds unexpected friendship and understanding at her new home and as Kristyl learns the truth about what she can do, the possibilities seem bigger than ever before.
I really enjoyed following Kristyl, also known as Krissa in this book. She was a likable heroine and Freeman tells her story well. Freeman weaves many different magical elements into Crystal Magic and I found it to be well thought out and plotted. Centering on Kristyl and this new stage of her life, Crystal Magic expectedly features the traditional teen drama and focuses a lot on Kristyl’s day to day life. Yet I didn’t find this in any way boring, and instead enjoyed the languid, but still entertaining, pace Freeman has set.
Kristyl finds herself faced with two very different groups of people in this novel and I thought their differences we notable, but also very minor. Owen, Lexie, Bria, Felix and West are the first to accept Krissa and welcome her into their circle of friends. Own proves to be an adorable romantic interest of Krissa and I like seeing her experience her first crush. Crystal, Brigit, Fox, Griffin and the others on the other hand appeal to Krissa’s magical side and can understand her in a way others can’t and yet there’s something about them that doesn’t sit well with me—I feel Freeman has a lot in story for Krissa and her acquaintances.
My only issue with this book is that despite it’s many surprises towards the end and the shocking ending, Crystal Magic didn’t answer some of the questions I had in the beginning of the book. Freeman sets things up well for the next installment, but still leaves me not completely satisfied, and yet ready for more!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Crystal Magic by Madeline Freeman is a bewitching and magical story that will easily entertain and leave the reader ready for more with its fun storyline, romance and friendship!
I have to say, Crystal Magic was a really fun book to read. It was light and entertaining and easily kept me reading along; it was just an all-round good book to read. Madeline Freeman’s writing was flowing and detailed and easy to read. The story was well plotted and weaves friendship perfectly with the magical element that encompasses the story.
Following sixteen year old Kristyl Barnette a young woman who has spent the last few years of her life as an outcast and social pariah thanks to the things she can do and the strange occurrences that seem to happen in her presence, Crystal Magic sees Kristyl move to the small town of Clearwater when a tragedy forces to move in with her estranged aunt. Still reeling from her loss, Kristyl finds unexpected friendship and understanding at her new home and as Kristyl learns the truth about what she can do, the possibilities seem bigger than ever before.
I really enjoyed following Kristyl, also known as Krissa in this book. She was a likable heroine and Freeman tells her story well. Freeman weaves many different magical elements into Crystal Magic and I found it to be well thought out and plotted. Centering on Kristyl and this new stage of her life, Crystal Magic expectedly features the traditional teen drama and focuses a lot on Kristyl’s day to day life. Yet I didn’t find this in any way boring, and instead enjoyed the languid, but still entertaining, pace Freeman has set.
Kristyl finds herself faced with two very different groups of people in this novel and I thought their differences we notable, but also very minor. Owen, Lexie, Bria, Felix and West are the first to accept Krissa and welcome her into their circle of friends. Own proves to be an adorable romantic interest of Krissa and I like seeing her experience her first crush. Crystal, Brigit, Fox, Griffin and the others on the other hand appeal to Krissa’s magical side and can understand her in a way others can’t and yet there’s something about them that doesn’t sit well with me—I feel Freeman has a lot in story for Krissa and her acquaintances.
My only issue with this book is that despite it’s many surprises towards the end and the shocking ending, Crystal Magic didn’t answer some of the questions I had in the beginning of the book. Freeman sets things up well for the next installment, but still leaves me not completely satisfied, and yet ready for more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2014
“Crystal Magic” is an interesting, well-plotted book. Since it’s also the first book in a series, it doesn’t come to anything like a satisfying conclusion, instead it ends with a huge cliff-hanger.
Kristyl Barnette lives with her mom, her dad took off long ago. Kristyl has scary powers. When she gets upset, weird things happen, so the other kids call her a freak and pick on her. Since she has a reputation as a trouble-maker, she’s often in trouble in school. As she waits in the office for her mother to arrive after yet another episode, she’s informed that there was an accident.
After her mother’s funeral, she goes to live with her Aunt Jody. The first morning at her new school, a collision with another girl results in coffee spilt all over her clothes and a new enemy – who is also named Crystal. On the way to class, a boy named Owen gives her a sweatshirt to cover up the coffee stain, gives her a new nickname, Krissa, and leads the way to her first class. At lunch, Owen introduces her to his friends who welcome her into their group. Best of all, after a confrontation with the other Crystal, Kristyl doesn’t get the blame!
For the first time in her life, Kristyl has friends. She has a beautiful new room with her own bathroom. Aunt Jody, who has a new age store selling herbs, crystals and gem stones, even pays her for helping out in the store.
There’s something about this town, however. When she tried on a ring she found in her room, she had a vision of her father. Aunt Jody said it was her dad's ring. Her friends think that Crystal is a witch. Fox, a boy she’s met in school is a girl magnet – even when the girls are interested in other boys.
Aside from her powers, Krissa is a fairly typical teen, dealing with angst-ridden teen issues, but she has bigger problems which she meets head-on. I’m actually looking forward to the second book in the series.
Kristyl Barnette lives with her mom, her dad took off long ago. Kristyl has scary powers. When she gets upset, weird things happen, so the other kids call her a freak and pick on her. Since she has a reputation as a trouble-maker, she’s often in trouble in school. As she waits in the office for her mother to arrive after yet another episode, she’s informed that there was an accident.
After her mother’s funeral, she goes to live with her Aunt Jody. The first morning at her new school, a collision with another girl results in coffee spilt all over her clothes and a new enemy – who is also named Crystal. On the way to class, a boy named Owen gives her a sweatshirt to cover up the coffee stain, gives her a new nickname, Krissa, and leads the way to her first class. At lunch, Owen introduces her to his friends who welcome her into their group. Best of all, after a confrontation with the other Crystal, Kristyl doesn’t get the blame!
For the first time in her life, Kristyl has friends. She has a beautiful new room with her own bathroom. Aunt Jody, who has a new age store selling herbs, crystals and gem stones, even pays her for helping out in the store.
There’s something about this town, however. When she tried on a ring she found in her room, she had a vision of her father. Aunt Jody said it was her dad's ring. Her friends think that Crystal is a witch. Fox, a boy she’s met in school is a girl magnet – even when the girls are interested in other boys.
Aside from her powers, Krissa is a fairly typical teen, dealing with angst-ridden teen issues, but she has bigger problems which she meets head-on. I’m actually looking forward to the second book in the series.
January 2, 2016
I sure do hope L. J. Smith gets paid by Madeline Freeman, cause thats an obvious rip off of Smith's "The secret Circle"
I do have to admit it has been a while since i've read The secret circle and I might mix it up with the TV show but here you go as for "comparisons":
Spoilers ahead..but i dont really feel like hiding them, since I am actually spoiling a different book:
BUT YOUVE BEEN WARNED (and I feel bad for people looking forward to reading a book, so I will hide them afterall)
And then main girl turns into super witch, time travelling, alternate realities..
I wont be reading books two and or three and to anybody who enjoyed this book I recommend reading the afore mentioned series by L.J. Smith.
I have no clue how this book ever got published unless L. J. Smith is Madeline Freeman and she is trying out new stuff with her storylines.
I do have to admit it has been a while since i've read The secret circle and I might mix it up with the TV show but here you go as for "comparisons":
Spoilers ahead..but i dont really feel like hiding them, since I am actually spoiling a different book:
BUT YOUVE BEEN WARNED (and I feel bad for people looking forward to reading a book, so I will hide them afterall)
And then main girl turns into super witch, time travelling, alternate realities..
I wont be reading books two and or three and to anybody who enjoyed this book I recommend reading the afore mentioned series by L.J. Smith.
I have no clue how this book ever got published unless L. J. Smith is Madeline Freeman and she is trying out new stuff with her storylines.
November 1, 2021
I'm always a little careful with YA books, but this one was on sale on Audible and I've owned the ebook - that I got for free - for forever, so I figured I might give it a go. To begin with, I actually had hope for it! The writing was mostly OK, although a little chippy at times, and the backstory was interesting.
Soon, however, things started going down hill. The MC was at times willfully ignorant and naive, glossing over previous experiences and saying the complete opposite of what she said just last chapter. This is also very ironic, considering that a lot of the drama that was held was completely unfounded! There was one event, and no clear instigation since, but the MC decided that that's how things were. And then there were the moments where the MC jumped to extreme conclusions that yes, made sense if you were a reader, but wouldn't make sense if you were in the middle of the story!
It just, the whole book felt very superficial and simple to me, and I won't be continuing on with the series.
A little on the fence regarding the rating. If I should give it a 1 star or 2 star. With my old system, it would be 2, but with GRs system, it's a 1. So maybe 1.5? But that's not a rating, and I always round the halves up anyway, so 2 it is.
Soon, however, things started going down hill. The MC was at times willfully ignorant and naive, glossing over previous experiences and saying the complete opposite of what she said just last chapter. This is also very ironic, considering that a lot of the drama that was held was completely unfounded! There was one event, and no clear instigation since, but the MC decided that that's how things were. And then there were the moments where the MC jumped to extreme conclusions that yes, made sense if you were a reader, but wouldn't make sense if you were in the middle of the story!
It just, the whole book felt very superficial and simple to me, and I won't be continuing on with the series.
A little on the fence regarding the rating. If I should give it a 1 star or 2 star. With my old system, it would be 2, but with GRs system, it's a 1. So maybe 1.5? But that's not a rating, and I always round the halves up anyway, so 2 it is.
July 16, 2018
*2.5
This book literally had every trope you can think of. The plot was SO PREDICTABLE and I just didn't care about any of the characters. None of the side characters had ANY distinguishable personalities and they were all forgettable. The magic in this book was unexplained and I just needed more. This book ended on a "cliff hanger" but I am not intrigued enough to put in time or effort into reading the next book.
(UPDATE: Amazon tells me this is a six book series. Ha, no thanks! )
This book literally had every trope you can think of. The plot was SO PREDICTABLE and I just didn't care about any of the characters. None of the side characters had ANY distinguishable personalities and they were all forgettable. The magic in this book was unexplained and I just needed more. This book ended on a "cliff hanger" but I am not intrigued enough to put in time or effort into reading the next book.
(UPDATE: Amazon tells me this is a six book series. Ha, no thanks! )
November 17, 2015
This was a fun book. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. The author weaves a mystery through the story, shedding light on questions as the plot unravels. New characters are introduced at a great pace, and I liked learning about them all. This was a good read and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Wild Magic. This book gets four glittery stars!
July 26, 2018
I’m going to skip right to the end… What just happened? Like how could Freeman just leave us hanging like that?!?
Deep breath.
Okay, let’s try this again. This book was a fun, pretty chill read. The main character was sweet and kind and definitely level-headed. Even when the “mean girl and her posse,” tempted Kristyl with magic, she didn’t dive in head first. One of my favorites, though, was Jodi. She was awesome!
Moving on, the writing was okay. It was nice, but didn’t wow me. Also, the story was a little slow at times; although, I don’t think the author intended it to be an action novel. And just one more note about the ending… What a crazy twist! I did not see it coming and now I kinda want to read the next book...!
Lastly, this was a relatively clean read. One girl gets called a bad name, but that’s pretty much it. Altogether, I recommend this book to lovers of urban-fantasy and young-adult.
Deep breath.
Okay, let’s try this again. This book was a fun, pretty chill read. The main character was sweet and kind and definitely level-headed. Even when the “mean girl and her posse,” tempted Kristyl with magic, she didn’t dive in head first. One of my favorites, though, was Jodi. She was awesome!
Moving on, the writing was okay. It was nice, but didn’t wow me. Also, the story was a little slow at times; although, I don’t think the author intended it to be an action novel. And just one more note about the ending… What a crazy twist! I did not see it coming and now I kinda want to read the next book...!
Lastly, this was a relatively clean read. One girl gets called a bad name, but that’s pretty much it. Altogether, I recommend this book to lovers of urban-fantasy and young-adult.
October 3, 2018
Krissa is the protagonist having a bundle of superpowers that make this thrilling story more interesting. Though she is an ordinary girl there is something that differentiates from the others. And that difference helps her to explore various prepositions of her life.
May 17, 2018
Good book
I really liked the book in the beginning, I don't know but it got less appealing toward the end. When jodi got sick I thought they would try to figure more about who did it or the old circle would do something to fix it, I don't know I wouldn't think she would go to crystal for help with no grantee the stone would even help jodi. I don't know that's my personal opinion. I feel like things could have happened differently for the better.
I really liked the book in the beginning, I don't know but it got less appealing toward the end. When jodi got sick I thought they would try to figure more about who did it or the old circle would do something to fix it, I don't know I wouldn't think she would go to crystal for help with no grantee the stone would even help jodi. I don't know that's my personal opinion. I feel like things could have happened differently for the better.
July 26, 2019
A fast, enjoyable read!
January 30, 2023
This story had promise, but never quite lived up to what I was looking for. Krystle doesn't know magic exists let alone that all the unexplainable things that happen around her really are confirmed as her worst fear, she does cause them. When her mom dies and she goes to live with her aunt so much of her unexplained past is suddenly influencing her present.
Look I liked Krystle and her new chosen group of friends which is why her choices towards the end of the story frustrated me so much. She chose not to confide in her friends as she learned things and instead decides to trust people who haven't exactly been nice to her. Those decisions didn't really work for me. Throw in a ridiculous love triangle and I'm just annoyed. I hate them and this one is pretty poorly done anyway.
The cliffhanger though has me curious enough to probably read the second book at some point.
Look I liked Krystle and her new chosen group of friends which is why her choices towards the end of the story frustrated me so much. She chose not to confide in her friends as she learned things and instead decides to trust people who haven't exactly been nice to her. Those decisions didn't really work for me. Throw in a ridiculous love triangle and I'm just annoyed. I hate them and this one is pretty poorly done anyway.
The cliffhanger though has me curious enough to probably read the second book at some point.
October 8, 2016
When I decided to read this story, I didn’t have any expectations at all. I’ve been too caught up with romance that if I don’t sway my attention away from it, I’ll erupt lol. I didn’t noticed that this book was in series, but I already had an idea that there’s some magic involve because of the title. I’ve read some few science fiction and supernatural-themed books before but I’m still adjusting to this kind of genre. I even expected that I can’t finish it, and wooollah! I just did!
The first thing I noticed about this book is how well-written it was. I’m a self-confessed dialogue reader but this story is just so well-written that I even read the description parts wherein I don’t usually do, and that’s really a great sign! I’m not a newbie with the supernaturals thingy, let alone witches for I’ve been following the TV series The Vampire Diaries and The Originals. But what’s great about this book is that it introduces some new sides of story with the witches and the psychics! Reading this story is also like reminiscing the first episodes of The Vampire Diaries especially when the “founding family” was mentioned. I would have screamed “cliche” on that part, but surprisingly, I didn’t.
The idea of this “powerful” teenager who didn’t know that she came from a founding family with both of her parents plus the struggles she’s been through isn’t totally that new to me. But I think the “persuasion power” this story have worked because it seems to get my full attention even when I was still on its first few chapters. I’m always a sucker for teeny weeny romance and this story didn’t disappoint. This story is more on the supernatural side but I can’t believe the author still able to make me feel giddy and so exuberant especially if Kristyl (female lead) and Owen have some sort of a romantic scene. Ayeeeei!
This story didn’t composed of so many characters so that’s really a good thing, plus, their names are so easy to get familiar with because they’re common. Looking back, I don’t really have any complaints or noticed some inconsistency with the way the characters acted. The guy sounded a guy and the executions of lines were superb. I don’t normally like some female leads on all the stories I’ve read and this story isn’t an exemption. It’s not about the character, I’m a girl so I guess it’s normal that the guys always caught my attention, haha. And speaking of a guy character, I am eyeing Owen, too bad I don’t like his name. It’s not because it’s aweful but because I know someone with that name and he’s aweful! And the Owen in this book is so much better than the one I know in real life, I’ll be looking forward to more of him in the next book.
All the scenes hold-up and I didn’t find anything that confuses me. The words used we’re great too but there’s a one or two words that I need to consult the dictionary for its meaning. The ending isn’t really what I’ve expected. I was kind of disappointed because Owen wasn’t there but I don’t think the word “hate” is the most fitting word I’ll describe what I feel about its ending. I think the word “exciting” would be most suiting.
After all those great words about the story, why 4-stars eh? Well, it’s because I’m still in book 1, so I think it’s too soon to decide, but if ever I made a mistake, I’ll be sure to come back and change it
I don’t think I need to say this, but I’ll say it still, haha. This book is highly recommended. Enjoy reading this story soon!
Read my full review post
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The first thing I noticed about this book is how well-written it was. I’m a self-confessed dialogue reader but this story is just so well-written that I even read the description parts wherein I don’t usually do, and that’s really a great sign! I’m not a newbie with the supernaturals thingy, let alone witches for I’ve been following the TV series The Vampire Diaries and The Originals. But what’s great about this book is that it introduces some new sides of story with the witches and the psychics! Reading this story is also like reminiscing the first episodes of The Vampire Diaries especially when the “founding family” was mentioned. I would have screamed “cliche” on that part, but surprisingly, I didn’t.
The idea of this “powerful” teenager who didn’t know that she came from a founding family with both of her parents plus the struggles she’s been through isn’t totally that new to me. But I think the “persuasion power” this story have worked because it seems to get my full attention even when I was still on its first few chapters. I’m always a sucker for teeny weeny romance and this story didn’t disappoint. This story is more on the supernatural side but I can’t believe the author still able to make me feel giddy and so exuberant especially if Kristyl (female lead) and Owen have some sort of a romantic scene. Ayeeeei!
This story didn’t composed of so many characters so that’s really a good thing, plus, their names are so easy to get familiar with because they’re common. Looking back, I don’t really have any complaints or noticed some inconsistency with the way the characters acted. The guy sounded a guy and the executions of lines were superb. I don’t normally like some female leads on all the stories I’ve read and this story isn’t an exemption. It’s not about the character, I’m a girl so I guess it’s normal that the guys always caught my attention, haha. And speaking of a guy character, I am eyeing Owen, too bad I don’t like his name. It’s not because it’s aweful but because I know someone with that name and he’s aweful! And the Owen in this book is so much better than the one I know in real life, I’ll be looking forward to more of him in the next book.
All the scenes hold-up and I didn’t find anything that confuses me. The words used we’re great too but there’s a one or two words that I need to consult the dictionary for its meaning. The ending isn’t really what I’ve expected. I was kind of disappointed because Owen wasn’t there but I don’t think the word “hate” is the most fitting word I’ll describe what I feel about its ending. I think the word “exciting” would be most suiting.
After all those great words about the story, why 4-stars eh? Well, it’s because I’m still in book 1, so I think it’s too soon to decide, but if ever I made a mistake, I’ll be sure to come back and change it
I don’t think I need to say this, but I’ll say it still, haha. This book is highly recommended. Enjoy reading this story soon!
Read my full review post
Buy Crystal Magic (Kindle)
Buy Crystal Magic (Paperback)
To read more of my reviews, book news and updates:
Main Blog: Blushing Geek
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February 13, 2016
Original review posted at Books, Stars, and the Pages in Between
This novel stars Kristyl Barnette, a seemingly troublesome girl who is accused again and again of vandalism and of knowing things she shouldn't. But the truth is that things always unexpectedly happen around her, and she always knows things without wanting to. A tragedy forces her to move in with her aunt, Jodi, starting a new life in the small town of Clearwater. But little does she know what she's wandered into, and the secrets that she'll expose...
I found Krissa to be a very relatable character. She didn't do anything I wouldn't, and her actions were well justified. She has a good head on her shoulders: she's able to tell right from wrong, and has a firm understanding of when her limits are being crossed. But we also get to see her pushing her boundaries, going outside her social comfort zones, which was nice to read about. She isn't one of those characters who challenges herself and makes an unrealistic 180 with her life; she challenges herself, makes herself uncomfortable, and still sticks to it. But when push comes to shove, she's able to overcome her initial fears and channel them into fierce determinism.
I've quite fascinated with Owen. He's not the angsty, dark and brooding guy I fall in love with quite often. Instead, he's the actual gentleman that's more realistic. Realistic in the sense there's a higher chance of nice guys like him existing and being available in the real world instead of dark and broody guys with that keep-away vibe. People like Owen actually do exist, which probably makes him a lot more attractive in that real-life sense. Now if only more guys were like him, not just that small handful in the world...
However, the character I'm most interested in Crystal Jamison. She starts off as the stereotypical shallow mean-girl, but as the events continue, we get a lot more depth to her character. I was right with Krissa in all the confusion of Crystal's attitude changes, never quite sure what she was up to and whether she was a good guy or a bad guy. I'm still not sure, but I'm interested to know exactly what path she'll choose. How power-hungry is she? Is she willing to make the same mistakes as her aunt? Is she confident enough that things won't end sour for her? Or will she prove to be smarter, learning from the mistakes of others?
Through it's obvious that this story is about witches, there were some new elements introduced. There's some neat information about herbs and gemstones, and how they have natural healing properties. The plot never was dull, something always happening. Something was always up, including that looming sense of doom. Sometimes my intuition was right, sometimes it was wrong, which made the plot equally unpredictable and enjoyable. Some aspects I saw coming, others I didn't, especially when you get those plot twists. Yes, that's right, there's a plot twist. And it's one hell of a plot twist too. The novel took off in a completely new direction without warning.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It was easy to read, had a smooth plot, and a very relatable protagonist. The ending has left even more questions than answers, and all I know is that I have no idea what's going to happen next!
This novel stars Kristyl Barnette, a seemingly troublesome girl who is accused again and again of vandalism and of knowing things she shouldn't. But the truth is that things always unexpectedly happen around her, and she always knows things without wanting to. A tragedy forces her to move in with her aunt, Jodi, starting a new life in the small town of Clearwater. But little does she know what she's wandered into, and the secrets that she'll expose...
I found Krissa to be a very relatable character. She didn't do anything I wouldn't, and her actions were well justified. She has a good head on her shoulders: she's able to tell right from wrong, and has a firm understanding of when her limits are being crossed. But we also get to see her pushing her boundaries, going outside her social comfort zones, which was nice to read about. She isn't one of those characters who challenges herself and makes an unrealistic 180 with her life; she challenges herself, makes herself uncomfortable, and still sticks to it. But when push comes to shove, she's able to overcome her initial fears and channel them into fierce determinism.
I've quite fascinated with Owen. He's not the angsty, dark and brooding guy I fall in love with quite often. Instead, he's the actual gentleman that's more realistic. Realistic in the sense there's a higher chance of nice guys like him existing and being available in the real world instead of dark and broody guys with that keep-away vibe. People like Owen actually do exist, which probably makes him a lot more attractive in that real-life sense. Now if only more guys were like him, not just that small handful in the world...
However, the character I'm most interested in Crystal Jamison. She starts off as the stereotypical shallow mean-girl, but as the events continue, we get a lot more depth to her character. I was right with Krissa in all the confusion of Crystal's attitude changes, never quite sure what she was up to and whether she was a good guy or a bad guy. I'm still not sure, but I'm interested to know exactly what path she'll choose. How power-hungry is she? Is she willing to make the same mistakes as her aunt? Is she confident enough that things won't end sour for her? Or will she prove to be smarter, learning from the mistakes of others?
Through it's obvious that this story is about witches, there were some new elements introduced. There's some neat information about herbs and gemstones, and how they have natural healing properties. The plot never was dull, something always happening. Something was always up, including that looming sense of doom. Sometimes my intuition was right, sometimes it was wrong, which made the plot equally unpredictable and enjoyable. Some aspects I saw coming, others I didn't, especially when you get those plot twists. Yes, that's right, there's a plot twist. And it's one hell of a plot twist too. The novel took off in a completely new direction without warning.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It was easy to read, had a smooth plot, and a very relatable protagonist. The ending has left even more questions than answers, and all I know is that I have no idea what's going to happen next!
August 20, 2014
*Received ARC for Honest Review*
Characterization
The characters in Crystal Magic are very lovable. Kristyl (Krissa) is really genuine and I found myself wanting to reach through the pages to hug her at times and others I wanted to high-five her for just being awesome. She’s genuinely curious and resilient. She’s had a lot to adjust to, as we find out at the beginning of the book, but that’s only the beginning for her. I enjoyed following her through her journey and finding out how she adapted to each curveball thrown at her. Krissa’s aunt, Jodi, is endearing and caring; it’s apparent early on that there’s something about her we don’t know.
Another wonderful character is Owen – ugh, love him. I did find myself wanting to know more about him. Luckily, this is a series, so I may get my wish.
One character I couldn’t stand is Crystal. (Imagine having to share your name with someone who is just an all-around bully.) She is developed well and has a nice bite to her.
Dialogue
The dialogue in Crystal Magic is very realistic and fits the Young Adult genre well. I enjoyed the back and forth between Owen and Krissa. There was something refreshing about finding dialogue that can read aloud and on the page easily. The arguments aren’t forced and the monologues aren’t heavy.
Plot
This is a fun story with some nice twists. Between finding out the backstory of our main character and sifting through the crazy in the town of Clearwater, I was pulled right into the story. I look forward to seeing where this all goes in future books.
Visual Imagery
There are some really good moments here and there throughout the book. As this wasn’t a visual-heavy story, I found myself drawn to Jodi’s store, Hannah’s Herbs. I could see the stones and jewelry. Having been in places like this before, I could practically smell the incense burning. I also enjoyed “seeing” the town of Clearwater and adventuring through Krissa’s new home.
Ending
Well, as far as endings go, this one was pretty great. I sort of saw it coming (just a teeny bit, and only by a hunch) but not to the extent that it did. I have to say it was VERY well done. (Yay for cryptic reviews, huh?)
Why Read This Book?
If you enjoy Young Adult Paranormal books, this is a pretty great choice for you. This may be my powers of seeing the future kicking in, but I have a feeling that this is a series to keep an eye on. I look forward to finding out what happens next.
Samantha
livreit2me @ WordPress
Characterization
The characters in Crystal Magic are very lovable. Kristyl (Krissa) is really genuine and I found myself wanting to reach through the pages to hug her at times and others I wanted to high-five her for just being awesome. She’s genuinely curious and resilient. She’s had a lot to adjust to, as we find out at the beginning of the book, but that’s only the beginning for her. I enjoyed following her through her journey and finding out how she adapted to each curveball thrown at her. Krissa’s aunt, Jodi, is endearing and caring; it’s apparent early on that there’s something about her we don’t know.
Another wonderful character is Owen – ugh, love him. I did find myself wanting to know more about him. Luckily, this is a series, so I may get my wish.
One character I couldn’t stand is Crystal. (Imagine having to share your name with someone who is just an all-around bully.) She is developed well and has a nice bite to her.
Dialogue
The dialogue in Crystal Magic is very realistic and fits the Young Adult genre well. I enjoyed the back and forth between Owen and Krissa. There was something refreshing about finding dialogue that can read aloud and on the page easily. The arguments aren’t forced and the monologues aren’t heavy.
Plot
This is a fun story with some nice twists. Between finding out the backstory of our main character and sifting through the crazy in the town of Clearwater, I was pulled right into the story. I look forward to seeing where this all goes in future books.
Visual Imagery
There are some really good moments here and there throughout the book. As this wasn’t a visual-heavy story, I found myself drawn to Jodi’s store, Hannah’s Herbs. I could see the stones and jewelry. Having been in places like this before, I could practically smell the incense burning. I also enjoyed “seeing” the town of Clearwater and adventuring through Krissa’s new home.
Ending
Well, as far as endings go, this one was pretty great. I sort of saw it coming (just a teeny bit, and only by a hunch) but not to the extent that it did. I have to say it was VERY well done. (Yay for cryptic reviews, huh?)
Why Read This Book?
If you enjoy Young Adult Paranormal books, this is a pretty great choice for you. This may be my powers of seeing the future kicking in, but I have a feeling that this is a series to keep an eye on. I look forward to finding out what happens next.
Samantha
livreit2me @ WordPress
September 12, 2016
Kristyl always felt like a stranger in the town where she lives. People avoid her and she doesn't have any friends. Because of this she doesn't actually have a social life. Her father walked out on Kristyl and her mother years ago and she hasn't spoken to him since. When her mother suddenly dies Kristyl's aunt takes her in because she has nowhere else to go.
Kristyl's whole world changes instantly. On her first day at school she makes new friends and after school she is helping her aunt at her store. Her aunt works with herbs and crystals and she wants Kristyl to learn all about them too. It turns out that Kristyl is exactly where she needs to be and that she isn't the odd one out anymore. Kristyl discovers that she has magical abilities and that she's actually a very strong witch. Kristyl also isn't the only teenage witch in town. When it turns out that Kristyl's magical skills are needed to change the fate of her aunt Kristyl holds nothing back.
Kristyl used to hide herself from the world because of all the strange things that happened around her. Especially when she gets anxious or angry things have a way of breaking or falling around her. Kristyl is hugely misunderstood by others and that made me sad. Fortunately she doesn't let that change her on the inside. She is a sweet and responsible girl who loves her mother very much. I liked it a lot that when Kristyl moved to a new town she was determined to make a better life for herself. Kristyl is brave, smart and she is willing to learn more about what she can do. I think her character is a very good role model.
I have always been fascinated by stories about witches and what kind of abilities they can have. Crystal Magic is a story that captured me from the beginning. Madeline Freeman has created strong characters who will only become more interesting throughout this series. Crystal Magic is a very good beginning of an amazing series. I really look forward to reading more about Kristyl and her new friends and I can't wait to see where their abilities will take them. If you enjoyed the movie The Craft and the TV-series Charmed this is a series you shouldn't miss.
Kristyl's whole world changes instantly. On her first day at school she makes new friends and after school she is helping her aunt at her store. Her aunt works with herbs and crystals and she wants Kristyl to learn all about them too. It turns out that Kristyl is exactly where she needs to be and that she isn't the odd one out anymore. Kristyl discovers that she has magical abilities and that she's actually a very strong witch. Kristyl also isn't the only teenage witch in town. When it turns out that Kristyl's magical skills are needed to change the fate of her aunt Kristyl holds nothing back.
Kristyl used to hide herself from the world because of all the strange things that happened around her. Especially when she gets anxious or angry things have a way of breaking or falling around her. Kristyl is hugely misunderstood by others and that made me sad. Fortunately she doesn't let that change her on the inside. She is a sweet and responsible girl who loves her mother very much. I liked it a lot that when Kristyl moved to a new town she was determined to make a better life for herself. Kristyl is brave, smart and she is willing to learn more about what she can do. I think her character is a very good role model.
I have always been fascinated by stories about witches and what kind of abilities they can have. Crystal Magic is a story that captured me from the beginning. Madeline Freeman has created strong characters who will only become more interesting throughout this series. Crystal Magic is a very good beginning of an amazing series. I really look forward to reading more about Kristyl and her new friends and I can't wait to see where their abilities will take them. If you enjoyed the movie The Craft and the TV-series Charmed this is a series you shouldn't miss.
August 21, 2014
**I received this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.**
Crystal Magic was a very great read. Better than I assumed it would be. This is a young adult paranormal novel about witches. This follows Kristyl as she moves in with her aunt Jodi after a tragic misfortune. She believes moving in with her aunt Jodi to Clearwater will allow her to have a fresh start, but mysterious things begin to happen and she soon finds out that she among others in the town are witches.
At first Kristyl's main focus is to learn to control her power to avoid the outbursts with her power, however she meets Crystal and a bunch of others who call themselves the circle. The circle wants to use Kristyl and she declines them until something happens that she quickly changes her mind.
The characters in this book were interesting nonethless. Kristyl definitely had anger issues and it made more interesting because she was a witch. I enjoyed aunt Jodi; she was quirky. Owen seemed like a sweet guy and learning that he too was the same was much more interesting.
I did not like Fox and Crystal. Crystal just seemed to obsessed with the idea of power and magic. Fox just used his power to get attention from females which makes him douchebag.
The part with Mrs. Cole freaked me out. I'm assuming Crystal caused her demise because she was the last person to be seen with Mrs. Cole. Same thing with aunt Jodi when she got cursed. I may be wrong but I believe it was Crystal.
The ending has a small cliffhanger. I mean altering the past must have some consequences!
I enjoyed this book even though it was a bit of a drag at times. However it was still a fast paced and quick read.
I'm interested to see what happens next.
Crystal Magic was a very great read. Better than I assumed it would be. This is a young adult paranormal novel about witches. This follows Kristyl as she moves in with her aunt Jodi after a tragic misfortune. She believes moving in with her aunt Jodi to Clearwater will allow her to have a fresh start, but mysterious things begin to happen and she soon finds out that she among others in the town are witches.
At first Kristyl's main focus is to learn to control her power to avoid the outbursts with her power, however she meets Crystal and a bunch of others who call themselves the circle. The circle wants to use Kristyl and she declines them until something happens that she quickly changes her mind.
The characters in this book were interesting nonethless. Kristyl definitely had anger issues and it made more interesting because she was a witch. I enjoyed aunt Jodi; she was quirky. Owen seemed like a sweet guy and learning that he too was the same was much more interesting.
I did not like Fox and Crystal. Crystal just seemed to obsessed with the idea of power and magic. Fox just used his power to get attention from females which makes him douchebag.
The part with Mrs. Cole freaked me out. I'm assuming Crystal caused her demise because she was the last person to be seen with Mrs. Cole. Same thing with aunt Jodi when she got cursed. I may be wrong but I believe it was Crystal.
The ending has a small cliffhanger. I mean altering the past must have some consequences!
I enjoyed this book even though it was a bit of a drag at times. However it was still a fast paced and quick read.
I'm interested to see what happens next.
October 26, 2016
Well Gentle Readers, this was a delightful little adventure in the life of sixteen year old Kristyl Barnette, social outcast. That is, until her mother’s untimely death has her moving to the small town of Clearwater with an aunt she hasn’t seen in years. Now she gets a fresh start where no one knows her or all about the “mishaps” at her previous school.
Sadly, her first day starts off with her crossing paths with the “raging bitch” of the school, Crystal Jamison. Fearing things are just going to be the same. Kristyl is rescued by Owen Marsh, dubbed “Krissa” and taken into his group of friends. Now with a sense of belonging, Krissa faces the school days with a smile. Krissa has a secret however, one that could tear her newfound happiness apart.
Madeline draws you in with relatable characters and an easy narrative told by Krissa herself. We get to see the inner workings of the main character’s mind and live her experiences through her own words. You want to like Krissa and you root for her “second chance” in Clearwater. Despite the sadness and torment she has experienced, she hasn’t become completely bitter and jaded.
I recommend this book especially if you enjoyed movies like “The Craft”. While Crystal Magic is a bit less dark, it holds a similar theme of witches in high school.
Don’t forget to check out Madeline’s other books. I have a feeling my To Be Read list just got a bit longer with this author.
Sadly, her first day starts off with her crossing paths with the “raging bitch” of the school, Crystal Jamison. Fearing things are just going to be the same. Kristyl is rescued by Owen Marsh, dubbed “Krissa” and taken into his group of friends. Now with a sense of belonging, Krissa faces the school days with a smile. Krissa has a secret however, one that could tear her newfound happiness apart.
Madeline draws you in with relatable characters and an easy narrative told by Krissa herself. We get to see the inner workings of the main character’s mind and live her experiences through her own words. You want to like Krissa and you root for her “second chance” in Clearwater. Despite the sadness and torment she has experienced, she hasn’t become completely bitter and jaded.
I recommend this book especially if you enjoyed movies like “The Craft”. While Crystal Magic is a bit less dark, it holds a similar theme of witches in high school.
Don’t forget to check out Madeline’s other books. I have a feeling my To Be Read list just got a bit longer with this author.
December 12, 2017
This is my second reading (1st time print, 2nd time audio). I liked it just as much the second time as the first time, so my 4 star rating holds.
Let me be upfront with the worst part of this book: there is not much new here. The author utilizes some VERY familiar tropes, so some might not like this book for that reason.
That said, I think Ms. Freeman did an excellent job with the tropes she used. She has said this one of the books that she has been working on for a long time. All us aspiring authors have that story like this one that is close to our hearts. I'm glad that she was able to bring hers to fruition.
She does a great job building the relationships and for the most part, despite the tropes, she does a good job of making them feel organic. I am not that into witches, but I could get into the story because I can relate to the grief and feelings of wanting to belong that she includes in the story. And for the most part, these teenagers act like teenagers.
The best part about the book: the ending. It totally made me want to jump into the second book the first time (but I had to wait for the second one to come out - too long). Now, I totally want to jump into the second book to find out what happens.
Let me be upfront with the worst part of this book: there is not much new here. The author utilizes some VERY familiar tropes, so some might not like this book for that reason.
That said, I think Ms. Freeman did an excellent job with the tropes she used. She has said this one of the books that she has been working on for a long time. All us aspiring authors have that story like this one that is close to our hearts. I'm glad that she was able to bring hers to fruition.
She does a great job building the relationships and for the most part, despite the tropes, she does a good job of making them feel organic. I am not that into witches, but I could get into the story because I can relate to the grief and feelings of wanting to belong that she includes in the story. And for the most part, these teenagers act like teenagers.
The best part about the book: the ending. It totally made me want to jump into the second book the first time (but I had to wait for the second one to come out - too long). Now, I totally want to jump into the second book to find out what happens.
August 13, 2016
This is the first in a series and truly makes you want to keep reading. The main character, Kristyl, has lived her life the last 5 years as an outcast and freak. When she finds herself with a new beginning what will she do with it? She has powers that she does not understand and cannot control, anyone who knows about her powers had casted her in the past. Will she embrace her new life or just throw it away? Can she change what she has always been, can she change what is supposed to be? As life takes her on a new ride it becomes uncomfortable and very scarey. What if she does it wrong and if it goes all wrong what will she do? the many questions you can ask in this book and get answers to or least most of them. The end leaves you asking what she will do next and makes you think, a read you wont be forgetting very soon!Thrilling, intriguing and makes you wonder. A great read all around. would reccomend for ages 12 and up!!!
September 9, 2015
I enjoyed this book. I liked the introduction of magic and how we got to know the characters as the main character did. I did sometimes feel that there was two separate stories going on. I did like that the town had magical history I just wish we got to read more of it.
I loved Owen, I really wanted him to be real and wished there was more of him. I didn't like how there was no sight of him in the last few chapters, I do hope things work out well for him in the end.
If there was more magic and how it works it would have been better. I think for a story about magic there wasn't enough.
I really enjoyed the setting, the town was great, I loved how all the characters knew each other. The close friends of Bria, Owen etc was good except I was a little confused at proposed pairings at times.
I was planning to review this 4 stars but the ending just didn't gel well with me. After that I am not sure I will read the next one. Depends on how much it costs.
3 out of 5 stars
I loved Owen, I really wanted him to be real and wished there was more of him. I didn't like how there was no sight of him in the last few chapters, I do hope things work out well for him in the end.
If there was more magic and how it works it would have been better. I think for a story about magic there wasn't enough.
I really enjoyed the setting, the town was great, I loved how all the characters knew each other. The close friends of Bria, Owen etc was good except I was a little confused at proposed pairings at times.
I was planning to review this 4 stars but the ending just didn't gel well with me. After that I am not sure I will read the next one. Depends on how much it costs.
3 out of 5 stars
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September 2, 2021This book isn't glaringly bad, but at 40 percent or so through the thing, I had to give up. Why?
Because while the writing has some minor errors (tense jumping) there's nothing seriously wrong with it. The only issue I had with it was that it was about as subtle as a wrecking ball.
Literally every point at the plot is staring you in the face the entire time and worse-the novel reads as though it's trying to be subtle about it all.
With how obvious everything is, there's just no intrigue and I have no desire to finish the novel. I wanted to, just to see if it gets better, but I just can't make myself do it anymore. Maybe someone else will love this book, but I don't think I'm one of them.
Because while the writing has some minor errors (tense jumping) there's nothing seriously wrong with it. The only issue I had with it was that it was about as subtle as a wrecking ball.
Literally every point at the plot is staring you in the face the entire time and worse-the novel reads as though it's trying to be subtle about it all.
With how obvious everything is, there's just no intrigue and I have no desire to finish the novel. I wanted to, just to see if it gets better, but I just can't make myself do it anymore. Maybe someone else will love this book, but I don't think I'm one of them.
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