Helpful Score: 18
Reviewed by Jennifer Rummel for TeensReadToo.com
"Just when I thought my day couldn't get any worse, I saw the dead guy standing next to my locker."
The opening sentence hooks the reader; they will devour the whole book quickly and ask for more.
Zoey's life is about to change forever. She woke up one morning normal and by the end of the day she's been marked. Being marked indicates that she will turn into a vampire. She needs to leave her family and friends behind and start a new life with other marked teens at the House of Night. Zoey's never completely fit in, but now she might have a chance.
After a fight with her mother and stepfather, Zoey goes to her grandmother's house for advice. Before seeing her grandmother, Zoey has a vision of the Goddess Nyx, who states that she is special and names Zoey her personal eyes and ears in the world. Zoey faints, but not before the Goddess replaces her mark with a blue crescent, which is extremely rare.
When Zoey arrives at the House of Night, she finds herself the object of attention because of her crescent. Her roommate and her new acquaintances quickly find their way into Zoey's heart. She finds herself surrounded with friends for the first time, but she also encounters a powerful enemy. As her entire lifestyle changes, Zoey finds peace within herself as she accepts her destiny and steps up to challenge her enemy's misguided judgement.
If you like vampires and enjoy supernatural tales, you don't want to miss this first book in a great new series.
"Just when I thought my day couldn't get any worse, I saw the dead guy standing next to my locker."
The opening sentence hooks the reader; they will devour the whole book quickly and ask for more.
Zoey's life is about to change forever. She woke up one morning normal and by the end of the day she's been marked. Being marked indicates that she will turn into a vampire. She needs to leave her family and friends behind and start a new life with other marked teens at the House of Night. Zoey's never completely fit in, but now she might have a chance.
After a fight with her mother and stepfather, Zoey goes to her grandmother's house for advice. Before seeing her grandmother, Zoey has a vision of the Goddess Nyx, who states that she is special and names Zoey her personal eyes and ears in the world. Zoey faints, but not before the Goddess replaces her mark with a blue crescent, which is extremely rare.
When Zoey arrives at the House of Night, she finds herself the object of attention because of her crescent. Her roommate and her new acquaintances quickly find their way into Zoey's heart. She finds herself surrounded with friends for the first time, but she also encounters a powerful enemy. As her entire lifestyle changes, Zoey finds peace within herself as she accepts her destiny and steps up to challenge her enemy's misguided judgement.
If you like vampires and enjoy supernatural tales, you don't want to miss this first book in a great new series.
Helpful Score: 17
At first I thought this book was going to be way more high school drama than I wanted to read about. But as I got further into the story I was drawn into the unique world that they exsist in. I also began to become curious about various plot theories and eager to find out the resolutions. There were some behaviours that I thought were a little much for a YA book, but I was o.k. with them because the heroine herself does not indulge and speaks out against them. The only thing that left me a little uncomfortable was the way that "the people of faith" (as they are called) were painted. But the book has peeked my interest and I will read the second in the series.
Helpful Score: 8
Although this book is classified young adult, I got taken in pretty quickly. The characters are teenagers, going through the change from human to vampyre. It is easy to forget they are teenagers though, with some of the issues the main character Zoey Redbird has to face. It reminds us that all light is not good, and all dark is not evil. Excellent book.
Helpful Score: 8
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book. It was recommended to me so I gave it a try. It was a bit difficult getting into the book fully at first. I have to admit that I am spoiled having read the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer.
I finally got into the book and I'm going to continue reading the series. It is very different and definitely a different take on vampires! I am on the 2nd in the series now and am enjoying the story line.
Give it a try!!
I finally got into the book and I'm going to continue reading the series. It is very different and definitely a different take on vampires! I am on the 2nd in the series now and am enjoying the story line.
Give it a try!!
Helpful Score: 7
Great mother and daughter writing team. This is one of the most original vampire books I've read. I love the Native American heritage that the main character has. I think the book goes beyond being just another good vampire novel and shows that its is important to honor one's culture and traditions.
This book is really neat. I am glad the PC Cast has gotten into this genre. If you like Kim Harrison or Stephanie Meyers who will love these books.
The story is about a teenage fledgling vampire named Zoey and her struggles with her new life in the "Vampire Finishing School" called House of Night.
The story is about a teenage fledgling vampire named Zoey and her struggles with her new life in the "Vampire Finishing School" called House of Night.
Helpful Score: 3
I really enjoyed this book.I found the story intersting and not too,whiny as with some YA books
Helpful Score: 3
A strong YA novel of the vampire persuasion. This is the begining of a coming of age story, which is not particularly surprising in plot (at least in the first book) but is well written with believable and developed characters.
Comparisons to/with "Twilight" are inevitable, but as far as I'm concerned the only thing that series has over this is weight.
Comparisons to/with "Twilight" are inevitable, but as far as I'm concerned the only thing that series has over this is weight.
Helpful Score: 3
I started this series completely new to YA, so I was a little hesitant.
I need not have been. I became so completely engrossed in this book I stayed up all night to finish it and move on to book #2. Since starting this series yesterday evening I have completed book 1 & 2 and am now starting book 3 (early am of next day).
I have to say, this (to date) has been the most original take on vampires I have read about yet. The entire story is just gripping and while they are technically young adults, this is not some rah rah teen stor. As a thirty something mother and wife, I am completely able to appreciate and love love love this series! My new favorite!
I need not have been. I became so completely engrossed in this book I stayed up all night to finish it and move on to book #2. Since starting this series yesterday evening I have completed book 1 & 2 and am now starting book 3 (early am of next day).
I have to say, this (to date) has been the most original take on vampires I have read about yet. The entire story is just gripping and while they are technically young adults, this is not some rah rah teen stor. As a thirty something mother and wife, I am completely able to appreciate and love love love this series! My new favorite!
Helpful Score: 2
This book is a new take on vampires. It is great for young teenagers who love darkly funny books with a bit of twist to it. A+ for the book.
Helpful Score: 2
I was hesitant about reading this book/series, since there has been such mix reviews by fellow PBS members. The majority of the books I read are paranormal romancemostly involving vampires. Before this book, the only YA vampire series I had read was the Twilight Saga.
Needless to say, I was NOT disappointed with Marked. The best way I think I can describe this book isHarry Potter meets Vampires. lol I know, sounds silly right?? While reading this, I found my self seeing the similarities with Harry Potter going off to Hogwarts to Zoey Redbird going to the House of Night.
Sex was disgusted and certain sexual acts were elaborated. I do not think this would be suitable for teens---well I shouldnt say all teens. This book would probably be more acceptable for older teens (as well as adults).
I liked the book. I think if you are someone who likes YA books and like reading paranormal (specifically vampires) I think you should at least give this a shot!!! :)
Needless to say, I was NOT disappointed with Marked. The best way I think I can describe this book isHarry Potter meets Vampires. lol I know, sounds silly right?? While reading this, I found my self seeing the similarities with Harry Potter going off to Hogwarts to Zoey Redbird going to the House of Night.
Sex was disgusted and certain sexual acts were elaborated. I do not think this would be suitable for teens---well I shouldnt say all teens. This book would probably be more acceptable for older teens (as well as adults).
I liked the book. I think if you are someone who likes YA books and like reading paranormal (specifically vampires) I think you should at least give this a shot!!! :)
Helpful Score: 2
What a great twist on the "modern day" vampire. Zoey and her friends are all great characters. I love the tie in of Greek mythology. I picked this book up on a fluke, and I am so glad I did!
Helpful Score: 2
I Loved this series soo much and can't wait to get the newest one..if you like vampires and drama you will love these books
Helpful Score: 2
I found this book too juvenile in speech and manner. For a young adult book, this had way too much cursing and sexual situations - blow jobs in the hallway??? Catty girls, gay boys, the in-crowd, the pretty people. It was just like high school and if that was the authors aim, I guess she succeeded. Though I found Zoey to be irritating as all get out. Definitely not a series I want to continue reading.
Helpful Score: 2
This is the first book of the series, and is a little slow paced to begin with-- but stick with it! THe books that follow are well worth trudging through this first one. I like the book and the characters but I felt the authors eased you into the world. One of the best YA series out there.
Helpful Score: 2
I read the first 100 pages and had to put the book down. I loved Twilight and was looking for something like it, was told this was good, and tried it. Not good at all! There was too much mention of sex, drugs, and alcohol, too many details left out so it was a little hard to follow, and (even for a vampire novel) not believable at all. Try and find something else if you're looking for a good vampire novel, this isn't it!
Helpful Score: 1
This is an interesting take on the vampire frenzy. Written from a highschool perspective, it truly captures the young reader.
Helpful Score: 1
This is basically an almost adult version of "Mean Girls" with vampires. You have the new girl who is pretty enough and smart enough to fit in with the "popular crowd" but instead fits better with the [nonpopular/nerds/poorer/normal]?? crowd. Of course the leader of the "in-crowd" is a horrible control freak who is an absolute b**ch and the new girl has to try to take her down. Mixed with the "gorgeous hunk" who, of course, was dating the head of the in crowd but now is interested in the new girl. All of this played out in what is a school for fledgling vampires learning to cope with their new reality. While that sounds very cliched, the story line is pretty good and it sucks you in. Read it in just over one day.
My only real problem is the vampire thing itself in the context of this story. The plot plays out in such a way that it would have been much better to have had the characters be wiccans discovering they had actual powers and then going to a school for novice witches. I say this because the way the story sets up the rituals with the High Priestess, spell circles, prayers to their own personal goddess... combined with some minor Native American (Cherokee) shamanism.. it all sounds much more witch and magic oriented than vampire. Seems like the Cast family mainly wanted to capitalize on the current fad of romantic heroism that now surrounds what were once blood sucking fiends.
My only real problem is the vampire thing itself in the context of this story. The plot plays out in such a way that it would have been much better to have had the characters be wiccans discovering they had actual powers and then going to a school for novice witches. I say this because the way the story sets up the rituals with the High Priestess, spell circles, prayers to their own personal goddess... combined with some minor Native American (Cherokee) shamanism.. it all sounds much more witch and magic oriented than vampire. Seems like the Cast family mainly wanted to capitalize on the current fad of romantic heroism that now surrounds what were once blood sucking fiends.
Helpful Score: 1
this is marked as young adult, though i truly enjoyed it,I'm not sure how young of a child i would want to read this series, some very sexual scenes.
Helpful Score: 1
Three words: Vampire Finishing School.
After being a huge twilight fan I thought giving another designed for teenage readers vampire series a go. I was definitely not disappointed. This book was amazing. I love how in most books the creatures that are made out to be these huge terrifying things are sweet and kind. It seems that every vampire series takes on a new approach to what the vampires do and act like and to be honest I was not a big fan of this one. Considering that the new take was that they were marked and then changed instead of being bitten is a little strange along with the fact that the entire world knows that vampires exist and live peacefully is strange. Along with the fact that that entire side to the book was never explained. Don't get me wrong: the book was a fantastic read but, there could have been a lot more explained which would have made a LOT more sense.
After being a huge twilight fan I thought giving another designed for teenage readers vampire series a go. I was definitely not disappointed. This book was amazing. I love how in most books the creatures that are made out to be these huge terrifying things are sweet and kind. It seems that every vampire series takes on a new approach to what the vampires do and act like and to be honest I was not a big fan of this one. Considering that the new take was that they were marked and then changed instead of being bitten is a little strange along with the fact that the entire world knows that vampires exist and live peacefully is strange. Along with the fact that that entire side to the book was never explained. Don't get me wrong: the book was a fantastic read but, there could have been a lot more explained which would have made a LOT more sense.
Helpful Score: 1
It seemed like a dumbed down version of the trials & tribulations of Hogwarts. I read the entire book in one night - a wasted night I can't ever get back. The language is insulting to the teens it represents, the pop culture asides are completely annoying, the characters are underdevelopped and the storyline is predictably unoriginal. Not only do I suggest grown-up readers avoid this series, but I don't think I'd even recommend it to the YA audience it's directed towards.
Helpful Score: 1
This series surprised me. It is marketed to teens and written about teen vampires, but the books have a more mature theme and dialogue to them than most of the books of the teenage genre. Written in the first person, it does give a more clear idea of what is going on in the main character's head. There are a lot of creepy elements including dark magic, invoking evil spirits and blood rituals. Warning: the characters in this book are teenagers who are quite promiscuous (even includes teacher/student and child/adult sexual relationships). Good story, good writing, not a great idea for young teenagers or those that would be offended by the sex and dark magic issues.
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first book in the âHouse of Night' series written by PC Cast and her daughter Kristin Cast. This is billed as a young-adult vampire series. Not much of this story motivates me to read any more in the series. It was a quick read about a sixteen year-old girl who is going to be turned into a vampire, but goes to a boarding high-school for would-be vampires until the actual Change occurs. I thought it really centered more around the pagan Goddess mythology and witchcraft than vampire lore.
There are some explicit sex scenes and sexual discussions that make me hesitant to give it to tweens or younger teens.
There are some explicit sex scenes and sexual discussions that make me hesitant to give it to tweens or younger teens.
UGH I hated this book! I am 29 years old so definitely not a teen but I don't think I would have liked this even if I was a teenager. The plot was predictable and weak, and the main character has a ridiculous way of speaking (what teenager refers to "boobies" and "poopie" in their normal speaking?!). It's also a little creepy to read about oral sex in a book written by a mom and daughter team. The book is full of mispellings and missing punctuation. Probably the worst book I've read in a long time. I read through page 100 then just skimmed to the end.
Helpful Score: 1
This book was Okay. It was an interesting concept the way one becomes a vampire and being more matriarcal and spiritual in their heirchy. I liked that and I liked this story.
Helpful Score: 1
An enjoyable book once you get past a maladroit opening. I was in the mood for a light supernatural romance and after reading the first few chapters of this I almost threw it back. The author, P.C. Cast, teaches a writing class so she should have known better, but maybe she couldn't resist. She threw in so many pop-culture references and the first few chapters had so many convoluted embellishments that I almost lost patience and gave up. But after the first 50 pages, this got much better.
The classic writers loved to embellish their tales with levels of detail that slow the overall process of reading but result in a richer journey. That's fine, and when one is in the appropriate frame of mind, it can be wonderful but one generally doesn't approach a supernatural teen romance in that mood.
However, it was nice to see a gay character (even a supporting character) that's not too stereotypical in this situation, and that did redeem some of the writing foibles, but this book will definately NOT be for everyone. It's a too obvious attempt to cash in on the Twilight phenomonon but with wiccan elements, and it's enjoyable enough when it's not trying too hard.
Despite its writerly moments the storytelling here is quite good and if you enjoy this sort of thing, stick with it for the first hundred pages and then decide.
The classic writers loved to embellish their tales with levels of detail that slow the overall process of reading but result in a richer journey. That's fine, and when one is in the appropriate frame of mind, it can be wonderful but one generally doesn't approach a supernatural teen romance in that mood.
However, it was nice to see a gay character (even a supporting character) that's not too stereotypical in this situation, and that did redeem some of the writing foibles, but this book will definately NOT be for everyone. It's a too obvious attempt to cash in on the Twilight phenomonon but with wiccan elements, and it's enjoyable enough when it's not trying too hard.
Despite its writerly moments the storytelling here is quite good and if you enjoy this sort of thing, stick with it for the first hundred pages and then decide.
Helpful Score: 1
I ordered the first three books in this series by mistake. I thought it was a paranormal romance series (teach me not to read the reviews well).
But suprisingly it was a great read (easy but good).
This is truly a 'Young Adult' novel (16 and up) The story is well written and draws you into the teenage world of a "Vampire Finishing School". Much to my suprise I enjoyed it, and am already into the next book. If you like the romantic side of vampires and are looking for an easy enjoyable read this would be a great book for you.
But suprisingly it was a great read (easy but good).
This is truly a 'Young Adult' novel (16 and up) The story is well written and draws you into the teenage world of a "Vampire Finishing School". Much to my suprise I enjoyed it, and am already into the next book. If you like the romantic side of vampires and are looking for an easy enjoyable read this would be a great book for you.
Helpful Score: 1
An interesting take on vampires, not totally new, but not totally and completely done too much either. We find Zoey Redbird leading a fairly ordinary teenage girl life in the beginning of the book. She has friends, a not-so-ex-boyfriend and parent troubles. Then her life is turned upside down when she is "marked" and thus must attend a special school for vampyre fledglings. I found the vampyres-living among us as a known entity interesting as well as the school.
So fast-forward ahead and she's at the school, but not until she has more problems with her parents. Being Christian I actually thought I would have problems with the divide created between organized religion and the vampyres as evidenced by Zoey's mom and stepdad. But I really didn't. The world is honestly full of hypocrites and while I didn't smile at the way her parents were portrayed, it is actually accurate of a lot of religious people (note I said religious which is not always the same as Christian - though I am not one to judge on that either) - scared of what you do not know. So while there are pagan rituals and the like in the book, I saw them as a side theme - something that developed the story and the school better. I don't have to participate in the ritual to read the book. Nor do I have to be a vampyre :)
Once that was realized I relaxed and really enjoyed the book. A great coming of age story. Zoey is a likable character and I look forward to watching her grow more through the books. She's not perfect but she tries to think about all her decisions and make the best ones for her and for those around her. Something that not many people do anymore.
So after all of that - I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys YA paranormal. It's just a good fiction read. The Cast's have created an interesting world with likeable and not-so-likeable people. It let me escape a few hours and the characters have stayed with me after I finished reading it. So to me that was a worthwhile book and I cannot wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
So fast-forward ahead and she's at the school, but not until she has more problems with her parents. Being Christian I actually thought I would have problems with the divide created between organized religion and the vampyres as evidenced by Zoey's mom and stepdad. But I really didn't. The world is honestly full of hypocrites and while I didn't smile at the way her parents were portrayed, it is actually accurate of a lot of religious people (note I said religious which is not always the same as Christian - though I am not one to judge on that either) - scared of what you do not know. So while there are pagan rituals and the like in the book, I saw them as a side theme - something that developed the story and the school better. I don't have to participate in the ritual to read the book. Nor do I have to be a vampyre :)
Once that was realized I relaxed and really enjoyed the book. A great coming of age story. Zoey is a likable character and I look forward to watching her grow more through the books. She's not perfect but she tries to think about all her decisions and make the best ones for her and for those around her. Something that not many people do anymore.
So after all of that - I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys YA paranormal. It's just a good fiction read. The Cast's have created an interesting world with likeable and not-so-likeable people. It let me escape a few hours and the characters have stayed with me after I finished reading it. So to me that was a worthwhile book and I cannot wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
Helpful Score: 1
Okay so I admit it I'm addicted to vampire books and movies! And this series is a new addiction! A great series with a new take on vampires and although it is YA I think people of all ages will enjoy it I know I did!
Helpful Score: 1
The best word i could use to describe this book is "cute". It was an easy flowing, quick read. Not your "Twilight" series kind of vampyre book, more like Harry Potter style. Where vampyre's are marked and then go to attend an exclusive school where they go thru the change to become a full vampyre while going to a high school of sorts. It is full of the typical teen angst, set in a humorous vampire school with some magic thrown in. I liked enough to read the rest of the series.
www.texasreader-stacy.blogspot.com
www.texasreader-stacy.blogspot.com
Helpful Score: 1
Awesome series!
Helpful Score: 1
I am not a prude, but being a middle school teacher, I have to be careful what I books I put in my classroom. This one, despite being a riveting read, will not make the cut. There is some mature content in here that tweens and young teens simply aren't ready for, IMO.
Helpful Score: 1
Marked was a branch out for me. You see I am a Vampire purist as generally I only read Anne Rice. But than my friends insisted I read the Twilight Saga, and I did and lo and behold I loved it. And so when these same friends recommended the house of Night I decided to read it. Well I have to say good choice.
The house of Night is a school, and to me the way the story is written its a little Harry Potter meets Twilight. But that makes for a great combo. You see in the reality that is marked people (humans) are well aware of Vampires. And in-fact vampirism is something that happens with your DNA right around puberty instead of ageing bit. You go through The Change you are marked by a Tracker than need to get your hinny to the Vampire school pronto or it wont go well.
Life isnt all easy pie with those being Marked, after all your body can reject the change and than you die. Simple as that. The Casts write an excellent and compelling book thats filled with the twists and turns of just wanting to be accepted all the while being different, even among the others youre changing with. Zoey is after all special, and has some major gifts but even that makes her feel like a bit of an outsider.
Marked even has its own Draco Malfoy in the form of a blonde girl who has dubbed herself Aphrodite (you rename yourself when you start your New life.). She is the school bully and makes Zoeys new friends uncomfortable. But lucky for everyone Zoë can stand up to her. If you like Vampire novels, and dont mind some teen angst this is a good book for you. The angst is more adult than Twilight, but its there. I really did enjoy reading Marked, and you can bet I will be happy to start reading the second book in the series.
The house of Night is a school, and to me the way the story is written its a little Harry Potter meets Twilight. But that makes for a great combo. You see in the reality that is marked people (humans) are well aware of Vampires. And in-fact vampirism is something that happens with your DNA right around puberty instead of ageing bit. You go through The Change you are marked by a Tracker than need to get your hinny to the Vampire school pronto or it wont go well.
Life isnt all easy pie with those being Marked, after all your body can reject the change and than you die. Simple as that. The Casts write an excellent and compelling book thats filled with the twists and turns of just wanting to be accepted all the while being different, even among the others youre changing with. Zoey is after all special, and has some major gifts but even that makes her feel like a bit of an outsider.
Marked even has its own Draco Malfoy in the form of a blonde girl who has dubbed herself Aphrodite (you rename yourself when you start your New life.). She is the school bully and makes Zoeys new friends uncomfortable. But lucky for everyone Zoë can stand up to her. If you like Vampire novels, and dont mind some teen angst this is a good book for you. The angst is more adult than Twilight, but its there. I really did enjoy reading Marked, and you can bet I will be happy to start reading the second book in the series.
Helpful Score: 1
I'm pretty torn about the book. I both enjoyed it at times & found it ridiculously pathetic in turn.
The positives: It's fairly well written, for a YA book that's supposed to be in that tone of voice, so the grammatical weirdness actually fits. The story has an interesting cast of characters (in a shallow, superficial sort of way), the world they exist in is consistent (so far) and rather interesting, and it does leave you wondering what will happen in book two. Well, you know how the final story will turn out, but you wonder how long it will take the authors to get there.
Some negatives: I realize I am not the audience this book is targeted to (I am very, very well past my teen years), but the "teachable lessons" are annoyingly obvious, like a slap in the face and someone yelling "Don't do this or you will be a bad girl!" Kissing a boy that you like and who likes you does not make you a slut (the author's word, not mine). The authors seem to be coming from a place of repressed sexuality or something, since they often focus on some character or act appearing not prim enough (which actually makes it rather humorous that they are writing vampire stories). Sandra Dee has nothing on the main character in this book. ("I don't smoke, or drink, or swear, and I say 'poopie'.") And she's supposed to be a teenager? Apparently not from this decade, more like from the 1950's. The writing is very uneven in places, which takes you out of the story -- it's obvious at times when either the mother or the daughter author thought some little bit would be funny and they just *had* to put it in the book. I wish they'd left most of that stuff out. The writing is also somewhat funny because it tries so very, very hard to sound teen-like and fails miserably -- much like when a 40-year old actor with wrinkles is playing a teenage roll in a movie.
Some potential positives, but maybe negatives: As of the end of book one, most of the characters are all quite stereotypical -- the hick sidekick friend who is not the pretty one, the one guy in the female group (gay and smart, naturally), the shallow-yet-entertaining "Twin" friends who were needed to not only fill out the race rainbow, but to prove the people-are-the-same-everywhere point. Maybe they will have some real development in later books.
The positives: It's fairly well written, for a YA book that's supposed to be in that tone of voice, so the grammatical weirdness actually fits. The story has an interesting cast of characters (in a shallow, superficial sort of way), the world they exist in is consistent (so far) and rather interesting, and it does leave you wondering what will happen in book two. Well, you know how the final story will turn out, but you wonder how long it will take the authors to get there.
Some negatives: I realize I am not the audience this book is targeted to (I am very, very well past my teen years), but the "teachable lessons" are annoyingly obvious, like a slap in the face and someone yelling "Don't do this or you will be a bad girl!" Kissing a boy that you like and who likes you does not make you a slut (the author's word, not mine). The authors seem to be coming from a place of repressed sexuality or something, since they often focus on some character or act appearing not prim enough (which actually makes it rather humorous that they are writing vampire stories). Sandra Dee has nothing on the main character in this book. ("I don't smoke, or drink, or swear, and I say 'poopie'.") And she's supposed to be a teenager? Apparently not from this decade, more like from the 1950's. The writing is very uneven in places, which takes you out of the story -- it's obvious at times when either the mother or the daughter author thought some little bit would be funny and they just *had* to put it in the book. I wish they'd left most of that stuff out. The writing is also somewhat funny because it tries so very, very hard to sound teen-like and fails miserably -- much like when a 40-year old actor with wrinkles is playing a teenage roll in a movie.
Some potential positives, but maybe negatives: As of the end of book one, most of the characters are all quite stereotypical -- the hick sidekick friend who is not the pretty one, the one guy in the female group (gay and smart, naturally), the shallow-yet-entertaining "Twin" friends who were needed to not only fill out the race rainbow, but to prove the people-are-the-same-everywhere point. Maybe they will have some real development in later books.
Helpful Score: 1
I absolutely loved this book. I read it in about 3 days, and I couldn't put it down. It's DEFINITELY a page turner. In fact, I've read all of the Twilight books, and I can't believe I'm actually saying this, but I think that this book is better than all of Stephenie Meyer's books!! IT'S A MUST READ!!!!!
Helpful Score: 1
This book was good... just good, not great! NOT the best vampire novel I have read by a long shot.
On a positive note... the plot was pretty good and the book was a quick, easy read.
On a more critical note... I did not enjoy all the commentary in parentheses. It made the book feel unfinished, like I was reading an edited copy. Also, for a YA book I was disappointed in the large amount of bad language. The "f" word and the "b" word were found frequently throughout the book and there was some fairly explicit sexual content. So, the content was TOO adult, but the plot was very youthful bordering on immature.
On a positive note... the plot was pretty good and the book was a quick, easy read.
On a more critical note... I did not enjoy all the commentary in parentheses. It made the book feel unfinished, like I was reading an edited copy. Also, for a YA book I was disappointed in the large amount of bad language. The "f" word and the "b" word were found frequently throughout the book and there was some fairly explicit sexual content. So, the content was TOO adult, but the plot was very youthful bordering on immature.
Helpful Score: 1
Book 1 in the House of Night series. Even though this one was written for teens (albeit, older teens), I still loved it. I'm rapidly deciding to collect more and more authors that deal with vampires and such. This one had a whole new take on it.
for tweens/young adult.
I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to get into this book at first. However, it only took a couple of chapters to have me absolutely hooked! A unique, quick, and easy read. I finished the series in a week. At times the teen speak of Zoe's friends grated on my nerves, but this gets better as the books go on.
Loved this story!!
Love this series
I didn't realize that this book was a YA read as I found it on a large entry table at a bookstore. It was not categorized for Youth. The back cover sounded interesting so I bought it and am glad that I did. There are quite a few situations that greatly reminded me of when I was in High School, weather parents would like to belie it or not. I feel that by having a mother daughter team write this book they brought a different light to the way High School really is for today.
I enjoy the different outlook on Vampires that the Cast's bring out and how they incorporated American Indian folklore into the stories. I have now read up to book 5 and am anxiously awaiting the 6th book to come out in September/October 2009.
I enjoy the different outlook on Vampires that the Cast's bring out and how they incorporated American Indian folklore into the stories. I have now read up to book 5 and am anxiously awaiting the 6th book to come out in September/October 2009.
I would recommend this book for kids older than 16, much parental guidance is suggested. One of the scenes early on includes a "BJ" given by a high-school aged girl. I love this series, this is one of the first series I read after Twilight series.
This book is great! I have read the first three in the series and am working on the fourth. The whole series keeps you interested. I recommend this book to paranormal lovers. It's really good!
This is such a good story, not the usual modern vampire stuff! Good writing!
16 year old Zoey has a crappy home life, an almost-ex-boyfriend who drinks too much, a best friend who's shallow and a geometry test tomorrow. But all this matters for naught when she is Marked by a Vampire Tracker and must move to the House of Night school in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for four years while her body undergoes the Change into a Vampire - or rejects it and she dies.
This is a new and original take on the Vampire legends, and mixes in matriarchy and goddess-worship with pleasing effect. Zoey becomes marked in a special way - the Goddess Nyx has given her a special responsibility and added gifts; which she'll need, because something's not right at the House of Night, and her own mentor and High Priestess may not be the gentle, caring mother-figure she makes herself out to be.
What I especially liked about this book was how it handles issues relevant to teenagers. Yes it discusses topics like drinking, drugs, anorexia, sex, homosexuality, bullying etc. but all in a positive light (or an "anti-" light, depending on the topic). Zoey is a wonderful role model with a sensible head on her shoulders who looks beyond the surface to what really makes people behave how they do.
Also, to be perfectly clear on this point, despite what you might have read, there is no sex in this book, or the sequel (and even if there was, I think it would be handled very maturely). There is some slutty behavior from one of the characters, but this is hardly glorified. In fact, it's only the language of the teenaged characters themselves that stops this book from being too moralizing. The slang etc. has been captured perfectly, but is not overdone so that it gets really annoying. It's also dark, funny, and the inclusion of rituals invoking the five elements of air, water, fire, earth and spirit add a new, beautiful element that I really liked. Over all a great book...
This is a new and original take on the Vampire legends, and mixes in matriarchy and goddess-worship with pleasing effect. Zoey becomes marked in a special way - the Goddess Nyx has given her a special responsibility and added gifts; which she'll need, because something's not right at the House of Night, and her own mentor and High Priestess may not be the gentle, caring mother-figure she makes herself out to be.
What I especially liked about this book was how it handles issues relevant to teenagers. Yes it discusses topics like drinking, drugs, anorexia, sex, homosexuality, bullying etc. but all in a positive light (or an "anti-" light, depending on the topic). Zoey is a wonderful role model with a sensible head on her shoulders who looks beyond the surface to what really makes people behave how they do.
Also, to be perfectly clear on this point, despite what you might have read, there is no sex in this book, or the sequel (and even if there was, I think it would be handled very maturely). There is some slutty behavior from one of the characters, but this is hardly glorified. In fact, it's only the language of the teenaged characters themselves that stops this book from being too moralizing. The slang etc. has been captured perfectly, but is not overdone so that it gets really annoying. It's also dark, funny, and the inclusion of rituals invoking the five elements of air, water, fire, earth and spirit add a new, beautiful element that I really liked. Over all a great book...
These authors are amazing!!! I love every single HoN book they have, and they're soooooo nice and funny in person!!!
Seemed like a rip off of the Twilight books too much make believe to even get into the story I could only make it through the first 3 chapters before I finally gave up on reading the entire book
Not as good as Twilight, but still a good read.
MARKED begins a series that is uncomfortable mix of compelling action and appalling writing. On the one hand, the idea is superb and well executed: P. C. Cast shows her experience as she deftly weaves an intricate and entracing web of vampyre history and conflict.
On the other hand, a great story idea cannot completely excuse the cringe-inducing writing. It is the voice of someone trying too hard to be "hip" and "in," with complete disregard for how modern-day teenagers actually think, act, and speak. One should not overlook the fact that all the characters seem like they are amateur actors on in a bad horror movie, overdramatizing situations and playing at their trying-too-hard lines.
On the other hand, a great story idea cannot completely excuse the cringe-inducing writing. It is the voice of someone trying too hard to be "hip" and "in," with complete disregard for how modern-day teenagers actually think, act, and speak. One should not overlook the fact that all the characters seem like they are amateur actors on in a bad horror movie, overdramatizing situations and playing at their trying-too-hard lines.
I was a bit skeptical at first when I started this book. A friend recommended it. But as I kept going it got better. My favorite character is Zoey. But I also like her roommate Stevie Rae. I like Erik and Zoey together. I didnt care for Aphrodite Im curious to where that is going. But I will see soon when I read more of the books.
Love this whole series, once you get started your hooked! I love reading about Zoey Redbird and her group of gifted friends!
This book was ok. I enjoyed the story, but the characters were a bit immature for my tastes. I think that has more to do with the fact that I am an adult, and less to do about the writing. If you're a teen and enjoy unique stories you will probably like this one.
I was disappointed in this book. I didn't find the main character very relatable nor believable. The authors also didn't make the vampire school attractive in the least to draw you in and make you wish you were a part of it.
This book is awesome! I love this series. It's definitely different than any other vampire series, but the authors pull it off very well.
This is a fantastic series that keep the reader on the edge and wanting to read the next book, great for young adults. It is written well, I have read all the books up to Destiny. I would recommend this book and all the books that follow the series.
This was an entertaining book based on a girl who is becoming a vampyre. Interesting new twists with some fun and pain along the way. The book does read a little strangely at times but the overall story overpowers that.
I've been reading a lot of the reviews and everyone tries to compare this to Twilight by Stephanie Meyers. I cannot be compared. That is a perfect love story between a couple teens and some stuff happens, the end. This book and the rest of the series keeps you sucked in with lots of different twists and the heroine in this book actually deals with her problems, and lots of them. There are real issues and relationships dealt with in this book, it is not the near-perfect twinkling vampire world of Twilight. If you want just a romance, this is not the book for you. If you want something with some good times and bad (and some awkward, like random spelling bee vocab mixed in - and defined for you) then give this series a shot.
I've been reading a lot of the reviews and everyone tries to compare this to Twilight by Stephanie Meyers. I cannot be compared. That is a perfect love story between a couple teens and some stuff happens, the end. This book and the rest of the series keeps you sucked in with lots of different twists and the heroine in this book actually deals with her problems, and lots of them. There are real issues and relationships dealt with in this book, it is not the near-perfect twinkling vampire world of Twilight. If you want just a romance, this is not the book for you. If you want something with some good times and bad (and some awkward, like random spelling bee vocab mixed in - and defined for you) then give this series a shot.
Good book.
This was a really good book. Easy to read and follow the story line. Couldn't put it down till I finished the book. I was told this was a book for teens but because of the content and language used I didn't let my teenage girls read this. They are both 13. Other than that a good read for adults.
Great book. I love the way the authors used the native history of Oklahoma and combined it with lure of the Vampire obsession. The use of the Cherokee language was also and interesting add. Thank You, (Wado) Kristin and P.C. Cast for an excellent read.
It was okay. After the second book I found the writing style repetitive and stale. Just got tired of it after a while. It didn't really...entice me. But I like literature, so I'm not the best judge of this candy type fiction.
I picked this book up on a whim and I wasn't really sure what to expect. This book was hard to put down. There is a lot of up and down action to keep you really involved and make you fall in love with the main character. But more then anything this book is a shiny new take on vampires and how they come to be and how they mingle with the "human" world. New takes on vampire lore are a dime a dozen but rarely are they so believable and detailed. Very well done and worth a read if you are a fan of Anne Rice or Charline Harris.
marked is a book no vampire lover could put down.just like every other teen vampire book there's bullies,nerds,normal people.this book has friend,boy/girlfriend,family,school,& even cat drama.when you read just the first chapter your hooked.When Zoey redbird gets over the vampire change then you get another great story ahead but,that's news for later right now is what i thought of the book. I thought marked wasn't gonna be a good book but,when I started it I couldn't put it down.I STRONGLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ALL VAMPIRE BOOK READERS.I give it 5 *****
give the book time, becomes hard to put down about mid way through the book
This is a young adult series. I read #4 first. It was a little hard coming off the adult books and getting into this...But I after the first 2 chapters I really got into it. Zoey is strong. I like the spin on the training it takes to make the Change....And not everyone makes it...Again it is good vs. evil...with Mother Nature involved. A good read for any age. For those of you who NEED so romance, there is the budding romance and that tension you are waiting for that first kiss like in the Twilight Series. Remember this is young adult...but your heart still aches waiting for that first kiss..
Interesting take on vampyres with a smattering of Cherokee mysticism and a healthy dose of witchcraft. Good start to a new series. I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
As a fan of vampyre and paranormal romance, it seemed that everytime I was in a bookstore or in Wal-Mart, this series would stand out on the shelf and draw me near with curiosity. I cannot pinpoint what was so compelling about the series or this book in particular, but everytime I saw it and I had to pick it up and hold the book, running my hand down the cover and then turning it over to read the back, even though I read it every other time I encountered this book. Even now, writing this review, I find myself moved to pick the book up again and run my hands across the cover.
As stories go, there are others that held my attention so profoundly I found it hard to do anything else while reading. The House of Night series didnt draw me in the way I was anticipating, but I found myself immediately curious about the characters so when I thought this story was just OK, I was surprised at how much I was enjoying it after all. Immediately upon starting the book, my attention was grabbed when Zoey is marked by a Tracker. A Tracker is a vampyre (cant get over the spelling) who marks select humans to become vampyres. In this series, once a human is marked, a mark literally appears on their forehead, probably so all the humans around them can freak out and go ballistic, like Zoeys mother and step-father (whom she refers to as the Step-Loser) do. The marked individual is now a fledgling and they have to go to the House of Night, which is nothing more than a private school to learn the vampyre culture and prepare for their change. Unfortunately, not all fledglings are successful in becoming vampyres. If their bodies reject the change, they appear to die a very sudden and painful death. Im hoping there will be more about that in future books as it is a little confusing still for me.
I found the characters to be interesting starting with Zoey and her grandmother to the Goddess Nyx and Zoeys mentor, Neferet, a High Priestess. Zoey quickly makes friends with four other students that I liked too and theres a romance blooming between her and Erik Night, another student. And even in vampyre stories involving young adults, there has to be a clique of mean girls and this one delivers.
Overall, this is not a bad beginning to another young adult vampyre series. There are currently eight published installments and two more looming on the horizon. I cannot honestly say I will stay with the series, but for the moment I am intrigued and have ordered the second book.
As stories go, there are others that held my attention so profoundly I found it hard to do anything else while reading. The House of Night series didnt draw me in the way I was anticipating, but I found myself immediately curious about the characters so when I thought this story was just OK, I was surprised at how much I was enjoying it after all. Immediately upon starting the book, my attention was grabbed when Zoey is marked by a Tracker. A Tracker is a vampyre (cant get over the spelling) who marks select humans to become vampyres. In this series, once a human is marked, a mark literally appears on their forehead, probably so all the humans around them can freak out and go ballistic, like Zoeys mother and step-father (whom she refers to as the Step-Loser) do. The marked individual is now a fledgling and they have to go to the House of Night, which is nothing more than a private school to learn the vampyre culture and prepare for their change. Unfortunately, not all fledglings are successful in becoming vampyres. If their bodies reject the change, they appear to die a very sudden and painful death. Im hoping there will be more about that in future books as it is a little confusing still for me.
I found the characters to be interesting starting with Zoey and her grandmother to the Goddess Nyx and Zoeys mentor, Neferet, a High Priestess. Zoey quickly makes friends with four other students that I liked too and theres a romance blooming between her and Erik Night, another student. And even in vampyre stories involving young adults, there has to be a clique of mean girls and this one delivers.
Overall, this is not a bad beginning to another young adult vampyre series. There are currently eight published installments and two more looming on the horizon. I cannot honestly say I will stay with the series, but for the moment I am intrigued and have ordered the second book.
Slow start but at the end it sucks ya in. Very much a teenage book but fun to read if older. The characters are fun and loveable.
I loved this book!! A friend recomended it and I started it and wasn't able to put it down for a second!! Very fast and easy to read!! Can't wait to start reading the 6th one called Tempted in the series which comes out October 27!!
I didn't like this book at all. I am a huge twilight fan, so after reading all of those, I wanted to read another vampire book. Honestly, I stopped reading this book after about 30 pages. I thought it was horrible. The idea of being able to turn someone into a vampire by a mere touch... was a little ridiculous.
Fast paced book that is quite enjoyable.
Even though these books are writting for young adults, I enjoyed it very much. It was a fast read and very enjoyable. I plan on reading the other books in this series.
Marked is one of those good series that you love to read it it keeps your attention i feel in love with the series. This book is good and so good to read you'll really like it
love this series
This is definitely a YA book. A short and good read. It will be interesting to see how people react to this book. Will they just relax and enjoy the fiction? Will they be uptight and concentrate on things that really only serve to move the story along? It was a good coming of age story that shows that no one feels like they belong. Even those that consider themselves leaders.
Enter the dark, magical world of the House of Night, a world very much like our own, except here vampyres have always existed.
MARKED is targeted for the young adult audience.
I am captured by Zoey's world and want to see how her special spiritualism develops over time. This book also left enough unanswered questions that I'm drawn to find out more.
Qualities of this book were the supporting characters, the villian is quite intriguing, I'd gotten a bad vibe from her from the start, so there was some good foreshadowing on that account. Just read the book for the pure, rainy day enjoyment that it's meant to be and I'll probably go on to read the other books just because I'm curious and masochistic. And for any potential future readers out there who are adults, just be aware of what you're getting yourself into with these books, light reading... and unintelligent, off topic interior monologuing...
MARKED is targeted for the young adult audience.
I am captured by Zoey's world and want to see how her special spiritualism develops over time. This book also left enough unanswered questions that I'm drawn to find out more.
Qualities of this book were the supporting characters, the villian is quite intriguing, I'd gotten a bad vibe from her from the start, so there was some good foreshadowing on that account. Just read the book for the pure, rainy day enjoyment that it's meant to be and I'll probably go on to read the other books just because I'm curious and masochistic. And for any potential future readers out there who are adults, just be aware of what you're getting yourself into with these books, light reading... and unintelligent, off topic interior monologuing...
Awesome read. The ending was a closing, yet a spooky cliff-hanger that really made you think. Definitely going to read more!!!
good story, very down to earth characters. i love this series. :)
Well, let's just start by saying, I'm 29 y.o. and this is for young adults(teens). I really enjoyed these books! Especially, looking at this as if your a teenager all over, you know what the characters are feeling. I read the "Twilight" series after seeing the movie,and while I really enjoyed both, I liked that they had totally different plots. Now, shortly after I finished the last book in this series, I moved to the "Sookie Stackhouse" series. There I saw how different the adult novels are! I really hope teenage girls stick to books like these! The "romance" in the adult vampire novels is too much for a developing teen. It would equal to a teenage boy peeking at porn movies on the internet! But, every book in this series, was wonderful and I couldn't wait for the next!
I was given this book to read by one of my 7th grade students after I had made a comment about wanting to read the series. I held on to the book a few days before finally diving in. Twilight/New Moon had left such a sour taste in my mouth that I didn't think I was ready for another "teen vamp" story. I was wrong. I devoured the book in one night.
I won't bother going into a summary of the book - since there are plenty of reviews that do so. I will however state that as a middle school teacher (or anyone who has been behind a group of teens in the mall) - yes, students do talk and act like the characters in the book. A few years back we had a "blow job in the stairwell scandal" at one of our schools. I do love how the authors state "Of course there are girls who think it's "cool" to give guys head. Uh, they're wrong. Those of us with functioning brains know it is not cool to be used like that".
I think the authors did a great job of trying to represent TODAY'S teens. I can see why teens would like the book. I do plan on reading the rest of the series.
I won't bother going into a summary of the book - since there are plenty of reviews that do so. I will however state that as a middle school teacher (or anyone who has been behind a group of teens in the mall) - yes, students do talk and act like the characters in the book. A few years back we had a "blow job in the stairwell scandal" at one of our schools. I do love how the authors state "Of course there are girls who think it's "cool" to give guys head. Uh, they're wrong. Those of us with functioning brains know it is not cool to be used like that".
I think the authors did a great job of trying to represent TODAY'S teens. I can see why teens would like the book. I do plan on reading the rest of the series.
Being a 38 year old woman, I was not too sure about reading another "teen" book series (The Twilight Saga being the first). I loved this series almost as much as the Twilight saga. This series has a very different take on vamps but is still great! I have referred and even lent my books to my 14 year old to read. Very captivating series! It keeps you wanting to read more and more! It was very hard putting the books down!! A definite read for anyone who enjoys The Twilight Saga.
LOVE it, wanted something that was comparable to Twilight and I have found it.
I was hoping for something better than Twilight, a series that made me want to beat my head against a wall, and this honestly wasn't much better. The one thing this series has going for it is the heroine isn't a helpless damsel. She's fairly smart and resourceful on her own and has helpful though slightly annoying friends. The villainess is a cardboard cutout of a girl and the ending left me feeling like I just watched an episode of a slightly dangerous version of the Brady Bunch.
The writing style also made me cringe. I don't understand why just because this is targeted at a YA audience that it has to be written in such a cutesy conversational tone with a bunch of asides in parenthesis and pop culture name dropping like it's going out of style. I will not be continuing this series.
The writing style also made me cringe. I don't understand why just because this is targeted at a YA audience that it has to be written in such a cutesy conversational tone with a bunch of asides in parenthesis and pop culture name dropping like it's going out of style. I will not be continuing this series.
Cover
I like the way the symbols are part of the cover. It's a bit mysterious with only a portion of the woman's face. There isn't much going on but it's intriguing at the same time. And her eyes are beautiful!
Characters
Zoey is a pretty decent main character. She's a typical teenager going through a life altering situation and she kinda loses her head. But she makes up for it. I absolutely adore her gay friend! I hope there's a side story about him one day. The twins are pretty cool and entertaining. Erik gave me a creepy vibe at first but he might just turn out to be a decent character in the long run.
Story
This book was really easy to get through. The plot is engaging and the characters are fun. It was hard to pull myself away because I wanted to know what would happen next. It's a unique story of overcoming one of life's obstacles and I'm interested to see where the rest of the series will go.
Quote(s)
Don't you think baby corns are scary? There's just something wrong about their midget bodies.
I like the way the symbols are part of the cover. It's a bit mysterious with only a portion of the woman's face. There isn't much going on but it's intriguing at the same time. And her eyes are beautiful!
Characters
Zoey is a pretty decent main character. She's a typical teenager going through a life altering situation and she kinda loses her head. But she makes up for it. I absolutely adore her gay friend! I hope there's a side story about him one day. The twins are pretty cool and entertaining. Erik gave me a creepy vibe at first but he might just turn out to be a decent character in the long run.
Story
This book was really easy to get through. The plot is engaging and the characters are fun. It was hard to pull myself away because I wanted to know what would happen next. It's a unique story of overcoming one of life's obstacles and I'm interested to see where the rest of the series will go.
Quote(s)
Don't you think baby corns are scary? There's just something wrong about their midget bodies.
Enter the dark, magical world of the house of night, a world very much like our own, except here vampires have always existed. Zoey Redbird is the main focus in the story, as she becomes a student at the house of night. But when she gets there, she realises that she is the most special vampire yet. This story is packed with love, lust, drama, and mayham.
I ran across this book, while looking for teen vampire novels for my 13 y/o. Downside is some sexual references. But, to be honest, she's probably heard worst. The author keeps you interested and I look forward to the next book release.
First book in the House of Night series, which follows a teenage fledgling vampire through her training. Very well written; intriguing story line.
This book is like the "Harry Potter" of vampires. It jumps head first into the story. A seemingly normal girl who has a sad, messed up home life is "marked" to become a vampire. When her parents find out, they freak out and try to keep her locked in the house so she doesn't have to go to the House of Night vampire school (which looks like dark scary castle - Hogwarts?). The school trains its "fledglings" to become vampires. In this book, all vampires have a mark on their forehead (a crescent moon), but Zoey's (the main character) is unique and causes a stir in the school (sound like a certain boy with a lightning bolt scar?). She has an interesting lineup of classes one of them being horseback riding (broomstick?) along with vampires sociology, fencing, ect. She makes new friends, one being a silly nerdy girl with red hair (Ron?), a pair who are silly and don't take things seriously who are referred to as "the twins" (Fred and George?), and a really smart guy who is always there to give his knowledgeable input (Hermione?).
Really, it wasn't a terrible read...I read the whole book in one sitting. It was a very easy book to read. There aren't many hidden clues or foreshadowing. The characters make comments that are so obvious it leaves nothing for you to wonder about. A few times I found myself questing the flaky obviousness throughout the book. But I think my biggest obstacle with this book was comparing to Harry potter. The idea is neat, but the book is not even close to being as clever as Harry. It's not as clean either. It's pretty crude at some points, and uses a quite a bit of unnecessary profanity. I haven't yet decided if I'm going to finish the series, but if your looking for a simple, easy read, I would recommend this book.
Really, it wasn't a terrible read...I read the whole book in one sitting. It was a very easy book to read. There aren't many hidden clues or foreshadowing. The characters make comments that are so obvious it leaves nothing for you to wonder about. A few times I found myself questing the flaky obviousness throughout the book. But I think my biggest obstacle with this book was comparing to Harry potter. The idea is neat, but the book is not even close to being as clever as Harry. It's not as clean either. It's pretty crude at some points, and uses a quite a bit of unnecessary profanity. I haven't yet decided if I'm going to finish the series, but if your looking for a simple, easy read, I would recommend this book.
This is a fun young-adult book. That said, I am a 56 year old woman who enjoyed the Twilight series and books by Charlaine Harris, so this series is right up my alley. I love hat it is written by a mom and daughter team and I enjoy the new take on vampires. I will be looking for the rest of the series online or at the library.
I rated this a three (too high, probably) because the premise of this series is good. However, this is author is probably one of the worst writer's I have ever read. She doesn't even attempt to develop characters, and leaves plot lines hanging when she seems to run out of ideas. It's like reading a really interesting story written by a third grader. For developing readers, it's probably worth the time. For adults, I encourage you to skip it.
It was a decent book. Hard to get into at first but overall I really liked it. I will definitely continue reading the series.
Hate, hate, HAAAATE this book. Some bimbo blonde teenager helped her mom write this book and she sounds like a cheesy teen flick like O.M.G! aha! -.-. Don't read this if you have any brains at all, you WILL lose IQ points I promise. Duuuh!....
Excellent vampire series told from the perspective of a newly turned teenaged vampiress. One who is "special to her goddess". This is the first of a truely excellent series. I highly recogmend them all!
My review will be of the entire series not just this book. Though I will endeavor not to include spoilers, there may be mention of things that someone starting with this book may not understand.
What I didn't like: Part way through the series, I think in the 3rd or 4th book, the format changed. Instead of being only written from Zoey's perspective, it started including chapters or parts of chapter's from the perspective of others. That continued to the end. For me it broke up the continuity, and in some cases I was bored and annoyed because I didn't care about the character in question. Others may find this a plus.
Too many things were left unexplained. I hate loose ends! How were the red fledglings created and why? What involvement did Nyx have with their creation? Why are they more like traditional vampires than blues? When did Aphrodite and Darius have sex for the first time? How was it? The lack of explanation here annoyed me because there was a point made in one of the earlier books that their relationship had NOT been consummated.
Why did Zoey not dump Stark after he began acting like Erik and worse, became completely dullsville? Why didn't she pursue more of a relationship with Aurox considering what she knew about him? Why didn't Heath get to come back AGAIN? He was a much more interesting character than Zoey's other love interests.
Why didn't - or did she? - Nyx ever allow Rephaim to be a real boy 24/7? It seems mean of her not to have relented.
What some may not like: An adult reading this may be annoyed by the focus on young adult interests, but remember that this IS a YA series so that just goes hand in hand. You may need to call up your inner teen in order to like these.
What I did like: The books are well written, the characters are mostly interesting, most things are explained and there's a nice wrap up at the end. The vampire mythology is not cliched. The bad guys are not overpowered and in some cases are overcome in one way or another. As an adult it was fun to relive the drama of love triangles.
What I didn't like: Part way through the series, I think in the 3rd or 4th book, the format changed. Instead of being only written from Zoey's perspective, it started including chapters or parts of chapter's from the perspective of others. That continued to the end. For me it broke up the continuity, and in some cases I was bored and annoyed because I didn't care about the character in question. Others may find this a plus.
Too many things were left unexplained. I hate loose ends! How were the red fledglings created and why? What involvement did Nyx have with their creation? Why are they more like traditional vampires than blues? When did Aphrodite and Darius have sex for the first time? How was it? The lack of explanation here annoyed me because there was a point made in one of the earlier books that their relationship had NOT been consummated.
Why did Zoey not dump Stark after he began acting like Erik and worse, became completely dullsville? Why didn't she pursue more of a relationship with Aurox considering what she knew about him? Why didn't Heath get to come back AGAIN? He was a much more interesting character than Zoey's other love interests.
Why didn't - or did she? - Nyx ever allow Rephaim to be a real boy 24/7? It seems mean of her not to have relented.
What some may not like: An adult reading this may be annoyed by the focus on young adult interests, but remember that this IS a YA series so that just goes hand in hand. You may need to call up your inner teen in order to like these.
What I did like: The books are well written, the characters are mostly interesting, most things are explained and there's a nice wrap up at the end. The vampire mythology is not cliched. The bad guys are not overpowered and in some cases are overcome in one way or another. As an adult it was fun to relive the drama of love triangles.
This was a great book. Similar to Twilight but with a different take on becoming a Vampyre. Can't wait to read the rest of the series.
This is one of the worst books I have ever read. The language is more preteen trying to be a teen than that of an actual teenager. There are inconsistencies in the book that appear as if one author started a chapter, and it was finished by the other without comparing. I can actually go through the movie Mean Girls and directly match each cast member to a character in this book. Horrible writing, inconsistent terms and details, shallow characters, and horrible writing describe this book well.
Can't wait to read the next one.
I really liks this series. I have read 5 books so far and will read the rest. I like this WAY better than the Immortals series, and not as much as Twilight. But Twilight is different in that that series is emotionally driven, this series is more of a teenage -we are all in high school again with major drama ..which I still think it kind of fun being that I am 31. It does bother me with the cussing that she has in the book sometimes and there is a little more references to gays than I would like and sometimes she looks down on religious people-but not too bad... all in all..it is has a story line that has kept me on edge enough that I want to keep reading them...I wouldn't suggest them to teenagers I know for the fact of the cussing..and sexual references..but now that I am already into them, oh well.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I read it over a weekend, so it is a fairly fast and easy read. It is obviously written more towards juvenile fiction (similar to the Twilight series), but the writing is extremely entertaining and the heroine has SUCH a great sense of humor! I liked it so much, I ordered the next 3 books!
amazing i am addicted
It was a great, quick read! I bought the rest of the series :)
Terrific beginning of a series I am eager to read all of. Set in the now but in a different belief it has colorful characters well described and captivating plot which thickens and keeps one swiftly turning the next page. Brings one back to their youth in some of the trials and struggles encountered. All in all a very good read I look forward to book #2 Betrayed!
LOVED IT!
havent finished yet but really good so far
This book was great! I read it in one day.
I was hesitant to start another Vamp series after reading Twilight (liked it) and Sookie (bored to death, didn't finish series). Although the beginning was slow for me, I found it necessary for the overall understanding of the House of Night and how it works. After I got over that hump, I breezed through this book and found it more appealing than Twilight. Not only does it have more adult content, I just liked how it was less frilly than others I've read. The charatcters behaved more suitable for a vampyre tale. I also really enjoy the Mythological references and information...it's a great touch in keeping the readers interest.
I loved it! great series and not just for teens.
I really enjoyed this book and have already ordered the next in the series. Initially the synopsis reminded me of "Twilight", but I do not believe this book even compares to "Twilight" (i.e. "Twilight is much, much better). That being said, I really enjoyed the story and was very interested in the characters. The romance is a little juvenile, but it is a young adult book so it is to be expected. Also, the problems the characters encounter are also a little juvenile, but again, it is a young adult book. Sometimes it is nice to reminisce about when life was much simpler and less complicated. Regardless of those issues, the story was written well, and the plot kept me very interested so I very much enjoyed the book. I will definitely continue reading the series.
I read a lot of reviews of this book (before I finally got my copy!!!) and almost all of them compared this story to "Twilight".. Well hell... its nothing like Twilight so it can't be compared, there isn't anything in this book that is like that one, except maybe that there are Vampires in them both, but even that can't be compared. This book really was good and stands by itself, there is no reason why both stories can't be enjoyed!!! I have the whole series now, so, personally, I look forward to Z's adventures!
Love it!
Love this series
I don't ever remember speaking like this as a teenager. The forshadowing is comical in it's obviousness. Read Stephanie Meyer if you need some young vampire romance, don't bother with this.
