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MacKinnon Curse #1
The Deepest Cut
Sixteen-year-old Riley Williams has been able to see ghosts since the car crash that took her mother’s life and shattered her family. Guilt-ridden over the belief that she’s somehow responsible for her mom’s death, Riley is desperate to see her mother’s elusive spirit to gain her forgiveness.
When her father moves the family to Scotland so they can all start over, Riley believes her life couldn’t get worse––that is until the ghost of nineteen-year-old Ian MacKinnon catches her purposely cutting herself. An uneasy truce quickly turns into friendship, and soon Riley’s falling hard for Ian.
Riley believes her gift could help Ian end the curse that has kept him tied to the land for centuries, but that would mean letting him go forever and she’s not sure she is strong enough to do that. As if her life wasn’t complicated enough, the spirit of the woman who killed Ian returns and she’ll stop at nothing to keep Riley from helping Ian find eternal peace.
When her father moves the family to Scotland so they can all start over, Riley believes her life couldn’t get worse––that is until the ghost of nineteen-year-old Ian MacKinnon catches her purposely cutting herself. An uneasy truce quickly turns into friendship, and soon Riley’s falling hard for Ian.
Riley believes her gift could help Ian end the curse that has kept him tied to the land for centuries, but that would mean letting him go forever and she’s not sure she is strong enough to do that. As if her life wasn’t complicated enough, the spirit of the woman who killed Ian returns and she’ll stop at nothing to keep Riley from helping Ian find eternal peace.
304 pages, Paperback
First published June 27, 2011
575 people are currently reading
6926 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Templeton
15 books618 followersJ.A. Templeton is the YA/New Adult pen name for adult romance author Julia Templeton. A psychic medium, Julia loves history, travel, and reading in every subgenre of romance, especially young and new adult.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 626 reviews
August 13, 2017
This was a buddy read with Lucy, Wendy, and SubCat, and before anyone gets the idea that we picked this to "tear it apart," we were all really excited to start this. I have to say though, that I hated this book.
This had so much potential to be good: a controversial topic, a girl who can see and talk to ghosts, Scotland and an old inn and castle for a setting ... and yet it fell ridiculously short. If you only read the synopsis you could skip the first third of the book, because not much else happens. After that, the story quickly shifts to be nothing more than an insta-love romance between a teenage girl and a 200-year-old ghost.
If the romance aspect isn't something that would bother you, there are a bunch of other things to be mad at. For one thing, the magic and physics of everything are never explained and only barely developed. When Riley was 15 she was in an auto accident with her mom and her mom died. After this, Riley can see and speak to ghosts. Why she suddenly has this ability is never really explained, much like a lot of what happens in this book. Riley can walk through ghosts but she can also kiss them (and smell them for some reason.) Ghosts can touch her and each other, but only some humans can feel when this happens. Ghosts absorb energy from wherever they can and also apparently have union meetings. Just kidding. (Mostly.)
Riley learns everything she needs to know about ghosts and how to fight them from a cursory Google search, a few library books, and some random knowledge from her housekeeper and her housekeeper's medium friend. Everything Riley learns ends up being fact regardless of where she finds it or if it makes sense. She reads that spirits absorb energy from any available source and so they do. She reads that ghosts can read minds and so they can. She looks up spells and finds the exact one she's looking for right away. All of this is way too convenient and it smacks of Templeton making things up as she goes along to suit her narrative. And then she isn't even consistent. At one point Riley questions how a ghost can make sounds all throughout the house, but then she never questions how another ghost can tongue-kiss her, and this just shows how sloppy the writing is.
Speaking of the writing, if the content of this novel didn't irk you, surely the writing would. This book is supposed to be creepy, what with the ghosts and all, and this effect is completely lost when the writing is so stilted. Transitions from one scene to the next are practically nonexistent. Here's an unedited bit from the book:
What was built up was the romance. I had no idea this book was going to focus so much on the romance between Riley and her ghost boy, Ian. Riley falls head-over-heels in love with Ian and states numerous times that she loves him, trusts him completely, and wants to be with him forever. This sort of insta-love really, really bothers me, and it's just another instance of sloppy writing where she tells us Riley loves Ian rather than shows us. Why does she love him? Why does she trust him? Ian does nothing to prove either of those things. They both lust after each other (which is kind of hilarious considering Ian is dead) and Riley decides to help Ian for no other reason than the fact that he's got "brilliant blue eyes, long dark lashes, high cheekbones, and full lips." (Trust me, you need to remember this, well, Templeton thinks you need to remember this since it's repeated ad nauseum.) Riley constantly chooses Ian over her living family and friends, and it's a bit sickening to watch. If I was her sibling and I found out she trusted a ghost more than me, well, I wouldn't be too happy with her. And I'd question her judgement, that's for sure.
There are a plethora of YA clichés thrown into the mix on top of everything else. Riley and her family are uprooted to a new town after a tragic accident. Riley's younger brother is angry and hates her because it's her fault they moved. Her mother is dead and her father is always working so the parents are conveniently absent for 90% of the story. All of the teens in this new town are good-looking, except for the lone mean nerd villain with bad teeth. The hot guy is interested in Riley (of course he is) and so his last girlfriend is a jealous mean girl and acts bitchy towards Riley as soon as they meet. The teens all meet in a mysterious spot that no authorities know about so they can drink and smoke and haze Riley. I kind of lost count after this, but I think it's pretty obvious how unoriginal this story is.
And finally, Riley is a cutter. I believe this was tacked onto the story to set it apart from the bulk of YA paranormal romance, and I also think it's a bit insulting to people who actually cut. You know what cures the need to hurt yourself? Sexytimes with a ghost boy. Yeah. That's all I'm going to say about that.
I wanted to like this story, I really did. I had been looking forward to reading it alongside my friends and I originally thought this book would be different from the rest. I'm sad that it wasn't, and hopefully the next book we pick is better.
This had so much potential to be good: a controversial topic, a girl who can see and talk to ghosts, Scotland and an old inn and castle for a setting ... and yet it fell ridiculously short. If you only read the synopsis you could skip the first third of the book, because not much else happens. After that, the story quickly shifts to be nothing more than an insta-love romance between a teenage girl and a 200-year-old ghost.
If the romance aspect isn't something that would bother you, there are a bunch of other things to be mad at. For one thing, the magic and physics of everything are never explained and only barely developed. When Riley was 15 she was in an auto accident with her mom and her mom died. After this, Riley can see and speak to ghosts. Why she suddenly has this ability is never really explained, much like a lot of what happens in this book. Riley can walk through ghosts but she can also kiss them (and smell them for some reason.) Ghosts can touch her and each other, but only some humans can feel when this happens. Ghosts absorb energy from wherever they can and also apparently have union meetings. Just kidding. (Mostly.)
Riley learns everything she needs to know about ghosts and how to fight them from a cursory Google search, a few library books, and some random knowledge from her housekeeper and her housekeeper's medium friend. Everything Riley learns ends up being fact regardless of where she finds it or if it makes sense. She reads that spirits absorb energy from any available source and so they do. She reads that ghosts can read minds and so they can. She looks up spells and finds the exact one she's looking for right away. All of this is way too convenient and it smacks of Templeton making things up as she goes along to suit her narrative. And then she isn't even consistent. At one point Riley questions how a ghost can make sounds all throughout the house, but then she never questions how another ghost can tongue-kiss her, and this just shows how sloppy the writing is.
Speaking of the writing, if the content of this novel didn't irk you, surely the writing would. This book is supposed to be creepy, what with the ghosts and all, and this effect is completely lost when the writing is so stilted. Transitions from one scene to the next are practically nonexistent. Here's an unedited bit from the book:
I looked down at the book and quickly flipped through to the pages I recalled reading earlier. "It says here that small stones and pebbles placed along the floor can ward off evil spirits." I glanced up at him. "We can always go to the river. There are plenty of stones there."They go from her bedroom down to the river and back again in just these three small paragraphs. This kind of thing happens throughout the book and it really lessens the impact a lot of the scenes might have had otherwise. It killed a lot of the creepier bits because the proper tension and atmosphere were never built up.
We raced to the river and I picked up as many stones and pebbles as my jean and sweatshirt pockets could. The sun was slowly slipping behind the horizon when we entered the inn again.
I unloaded the rocks the second I made it to my room, and Ian helped me place them around my bed and along the doorway and window frame.
What was built up was the romance. I had no idea this book was going to focus so much on the romance between Riley and her ghost boy, Ian. Riley falls head-over-heels in love with Ian and states numerous times that she loves him, trusts him completely, and wants to be with him forever. This sort of insta-love really, really bothers me, and it's just another instance of sloppy writing where she tells us Riley loves Ian rather than shows us. Why does she love him? Why does she trust him? Ian does nothing to prove either of those things. They both lust after each other (which is kind of hilarious considering Ian is dead) and Riley decides to help Ian for no other reason than the fact that he's got "brilliant blue eyes, long dark lashes, high cheekbones, and full lips." (Trust me, you need to remember this, well, Templeton thinks you need to remember this since it's repeated ad nauseum.) Riley constantly chooses Ian over her living family and friends, and it's a bit sickening to watch. If I was her sibling and I found out she trusted a ghost more than me, well, I wouldn't be too happy with her. And I'd question her judgement, that's for sure.
There are a plethora of YA clichés thrown into the mix on top of everything else. Riley and her family are uprooted to a new town after a tragic accident. Riley's younger brother is angry and hates her because it's her fault they moved. Her mother is dead and her father is always working so the parents are conveniently absent for 90% of the story. All of the teens in this new town are good-looking, except for the lone mean nerd villain with bad teeth. The hot guy is interested in Riley (of course he is) and so his last girlfriend is a jealous mean girl and acts bitchy towards Riley as soon as they meet. The teens all meet in a mysterious spot that no authorities know about so they can drink and smoke and haze Riley. I kind of lost count after this, but I think it's pretty obvious how unoriginal this story is.
And finally, Riley is a cutter. I believe this was tacked onto the story to set it apart from the bulk of YA paranormal romance, and I also think it's a bit insulting to people who actually cut. You know what cures the need to hurt yourself? Sexytimes with a ghost boy. Yeah. That's all I'm going to say about that.
I wanted to like this story, I really did. I had been looking forward to reading it alongside my friends and I originally thought this book would be different from the rest. I'm sad that it wasn't, and hopefully the next book we pick is better.
December 19, 2011
If you thought Anna Dressed in Blood was scary - It has Nothing on this one! Don't get me wrong I really enjoyed Anna and thought it was creepy and a lot of fun. But seriously scary? Not really. The Deepest Cut gives us an actual spine-chilling ghost story that will make your hair stand on end. Kind of like the equivalent of this: http://www.fotokristall.narod.ru/mov0...
Riley has been able to see ghosts since her mom died a few months ago. To start over, her family moves to Scotland in a great big house that used to be an inn. She soon meets this ghost, Ian, who lived in the castle across the street and was murdered by a jealous servant who has cursed him to roam the earth for eternity. This servant - Laria - is determined to stop Riley from trying to help Ian. Let me tell you, this Laria is terrifying! And if you think ghosts can't hurt the living, you're wrong. Laria is evil and goes to extremes to try to get Riley to stay away. I'm a real sucker for ghost stories. Even though they scare me to death, I absolutely enjoy reading about them. The Deepest Cut is one of the best ghost stories I've read. Although, there were a few elements that I found unnecessary to the story. Like how Riley would cut herself. I felt as if that storyline often got put on the backburner and forgotten for a while. It did help with the character development a little, yet while I didn't mind it was there, it did feel expendable. I'm also wondering why Tom was so adamant on having Riley spend time at the mausoleum. He seems like a strange character that I hope we get to find out more about later on.
Along with the hair-raising, there is also romance in this story: a convincing and passionate romance. Riley is falling fast for Ian who is clearly gorgeous, but a relationship with a ghost can't really be real, can it? I loved how the relationship was intertwined with the ghost plot as well as how much chemistry there was between the two. Ian is a wonderfully mysterious character that pulls on your heartstrings. It's certainly a really unique relationship that you know can't have a happy ending. However, JA Templeton leaves us with a killer cliffhanger that will make you rethink it all. I was extremely happy to find out the next installment is due to release at the end of the month because it's definitely one of those fun-but-I-may-die-waiting type of ending.
A real page turner full of fear, love, sadness, along with bittersweet ending, The Deepest Cut will be greatly enjoyed by readers who love ghost stories that leave you undoubtedly spooked and full of mixed emotions.
Riley has been able to see ghosts since her mom died a few months ago. To start over, her family moves to Scotland in a great big house that used to be an inn. She soon meets this ghost, Ian, who lived in the castle across the street and was murdered by a jealous servant who has cursed him to roam the earth for eternity. This servant - Laria - is determined to stop Riley from trying to help Ian. Let me tell you, this Laria is terrifying! And if you think ghosts can't hurt the living, you're wrong. Laria is evil and goes to extremes to try to get Riley to stay away. I'm a real sucker for ghost stories. Even though they scare me to death, I absolutely enjoy reading about them. The Deepest Cut is one of the best ghost stories I've read. Although, there were a few elements that I found unnecessary to the story. Like how Riley would cut herself. I felt as if that storyline often got put on the backburner and forgotten for a while. It did help with the character development a little, yet while I didn't mind it was there, it did feel expendable. I'm also wondering why Tom was so adamant on having Riley spend time at the mausoleum. He seems like a strange character that I hope we get to find out more about later on.
Along with the hair-raising, there is also romance in this story: a convincing and passionate romance. Riley is falling fast for Ian who is clearly gorgeous, but a relationship with a ghost can't really be real, can it? I loved how the relationship was intertwined with the ghost plot as well as how much chemistry there was between the two. Ian is a wonderfully mysterious character that pulls on your heartstrings. It's certainly a really unique relationship that you know can't have a happy ending. However, JA Templeton leaves us with a killer cliffhanger that will make you rethink it all. I was extremely happy to find out the next installment is due to release at the end of the month because it's definitely one of those fun-but-I-may-die-waiting type of ending.
A real page turner full of fear, love, sadness, along with bittersweet ending, The Deepest Cut will be greatly enjoyed by readers who love ghost stories that leave you undoubtedly spooked and full of mixed emotions.
May 18, 2016
free 10-23-15
The Deepest Cut, cut me good. I really enjoyed the book. It has all the things I like. It has a good ghost story, a creepy haunting, a murder mystery, a bit of love, and great build up.
The book is about a sixteen year old named Riley who has just moved to another country with her father and younger brother. Her father thought it would be a good fresh start for him and his kids after the loss of his wife, their mother. Riley is especially having a hard time and feeling extreme guilt over her mother’s passing. I won’t say why, I don’t want to give anything away. To help ease the pain and stress she is under since coming into her new gift of being able to see the dead, she inflicts pain onto herself. By doing so she feels all the pain she is feeling ease and all the stress release with it. But once she commits the act she feels ashamed.
Riley comes into contact with a ghost named Ian. He has uncovered her secret of harming herself and tries to help her. She in turn tries to help him by figuring out his murder. But his murderer is still around and making it extremely hard for Riley to help Ian be freed from his curse.
The book is one of the more interesting stories I have read so far this year. I really liked how the author described the scenes in her book. She made you feel like you were right there in the story with these characters. I enjoyed how creepy the scenery was.
The story is a great build-up of what’s to come in the following books. It was very easy for me to get caught up in the story. The author does a great job at keeping you on the edge of suspense. I can’t wait to read the next books.
The Deepest Cut, cut me good. I really enjoyed the book. It has all the things I like. It has a good ghost story, a creepy haunting, a murder mystery, a bit of love, and great build up.
The book is about a sixteen year old named Riley who has just moved to another country with her father and younger brother. Her father thought it would be a good fresh start for him and his kids after the loss of his wife, their mother. Riley is especially having a hard time and feeling extreme guilt over her mother’s passing. I won’t say why, I don’t want to give anything away. To help ease the pain and stress she is under since coming into her new gift of being able to see the dead, she inflicts pain onto herself. By doing so she feels all the pain she is feeling ease and all the stress release with it. But once she commits the act she feels ashamed.
Riley comes into contact with a ghost named Ian. He has uncovered her secret of harming herself and tries to help her. She in turn tries to help him by figuring out his murder. But his murderer is still around and making it extremely hard for Riley to help Ian be freed from his curse.
The book is one of the more interesting stories I have read so far this year. I really liked how the author described the scenes in her book. She made you feel like you were right there in the story with these characters. I enjoyed how creepy the scenery was.
The story is a great build-up of what’s to come in the following books. It was very easy for me to get caught up in the story. The author does a great job at keeping you on the edge of suspense. I can’t wait to read the next books.
April 12, 2015
I really need to stop rating books right after I read them. I find that I am often too generous with the ones I truly disliked and later bump them down a star.
The Deepest Cut could have been great. It was an interesting idea that was held back by the writing style and the characterization of the leads. It's not often in a book where you end up truly disliking the main characters but that happened for me with this one.
Riley Williams and her family have moved to Scotland to escape their past. Her mother died in a car accident and ever since then, Riley has been able to see spirits of those who have passed on. So the obvious logical conclusion is to move to a place where history/bloodshed/ghosts/legends are thick on the ground and this poor girl will be tormented. Her brother and father don't believe that she sees ghosts but still, that's a bit of a dick move.
So they move into a haunted inn in the haunted countryside of Scotland where everybody is going to get along and stay out of trouble. This is where Riley encounters Ian McKinnon, a young Scottish lad that was killed around 200 years ago.
Ian is the stereotypical Scottish man we see in every book written about the Highlands. He's tall, handsome with a stunning and sweet personality but the desire to protects his loved ones. As soon as he finds out that Riley can see him, he sticks close by her, desperate to talk to someone who can hear him.
Ian catches Riley cutting herself as a way of releasing the pent up anger, frustration, and hurt of being without her mother. She's sick of being medicated and treated but is still dealing with her past. And that's when everything goes downhill.
Because Ian isn't the only spirit sticking around. There is another ghost roaming around and this one isn't nearly as charming and has a thing for homicide. Riley is determined to save Ian from his eternal wandering but that puts her in danger from being cursed or whatever herself.
The idea is good with this book. The execution is excessively awful.
Riley learns everything about ghosts through Google, a couple of books, and the crazy old ladies in the neighborhood. None of which is actually effective. They really make things worse.
There is little to no consistency about the ghosts, meaning that the author basically ignored all of the standards for ghostliness (non-tangible, mysterious, not able to talk, being tied to one place, creepy as fuck) and fits her ghosts to her standards. Ghosts are able to fly through walls but Riley is able to kiss and cuddle them?
Riley is a whiner too.
I get that you're working through your mother's death and it's difficult but stop acting like such a martyr and step up a little bit. The cutting felt like it was added on as a schtick and it never felt genuine. Her brother and her father lost someone too and it felt like they were just so incredibly done with her.
The town they move into must be the Scottish version of Hollywood because everybody there is fucking gorgeous apparently.
Except the bad guys. Because bad guys can't be pretty ever. (Except Hiddleston. Exception to every rule) The important people are pretty. It was just so over the top cliched that it made me want to throw something. A bunch of teenagers running wild, drinking, partying, and being incredibly stupid with little parental supervision. Is this the YA Paranormal version of every high school teen movie made?
And finally, the romance...
It felt stupid and fake. There are better ways to do ghostly boyfriends and this was the worst rendition of it I've ever seen. The whole point of falling in love with a ghost is that you can't fucking touch them or have any sort of physical relationship. It's supposed to torture you. That never happened in this book. The only inconvenient part of him being a ghost is that he would lost energy. They nearly had ghostly sex which would have been awfully convenient since he couldn't get you pregnant. (OMG Ghost babies)
So yeah...don't waste your time or your money. I got the box set of the series but for the first time, I'm deleting something from my kindle library. It's not worth keeping.
Review also posted at Tara Belle Talking
The Deepest Cut could have been great. It was an interesting idea that was held back by the writing style and the characterization of the leads. It's not often in a book where you end up truly disliking the main characters but that happened for me with this one.
Riley Williams and her family have moved to Scotland to escape their past. Her mother died in a car accident and ever since then, Riley has been able to see spirits of those who have passed on. So the obvious logical conclusion is to move to a place where history/bloodshed/ghosts/legends are thick on the ground and this poor girl will be tormented. Her brother and father don't believe that she sees ghosts but still, that's a bit of a dick move.
So they move into a haunted inn in the haunted countryside of Scotland where everybody is going to get along and stay out of trouble. This is where Riley encounters Ian McKinnon, a young Scottish lad that was killed around 200 years ago.
Ian is the stereotypical Scottish man we see in every book written about the Highlands. He's tall, handsome with a stunning and sweet personality but the desire to protects his loved ones. As soon as he finds out that Riley can see him, he sticks close by her, desperate to talk to someone who can hear him.
Ian catches Riley cutting herself as a way of releasing the pent up anger, frustration, and hurt of being without her mother. She's sick of being medicated and treated but is still dealing with her past. And that's when everything goes downhill.
Because Ian isn't the only spirit sticking around. There is another ghost roaming around and this one isn't nearly as charming and has a thing for homicide. Riley is determined to save Ian from his eternal wandering but that puts her in danger from being cursed or whatever herself.
The idea is good with this book. The execution is excessively awful.
Riley learns everything about ghosts through Google, a couple of books, and the crazy old ladies in the neighborhood. None of which is actually effective. They really make things worse.
There is little to no consistency about the ghosts, meaning that the author basically ignored all of the standards for ghostliness (non-tangible, mysterious, not able to talk, being tied to one place, creepy as fuck) and fits her ghosts to her standards. Ghosts are able to fly through walls but Riley is able to kiss and cuddle them?
Riley is a whiner too.
I get that you're working through your mother's death and it's difficult but stop acting like such a martyr and step up a little bit. The cutting felt like it was added on as a schtick and it never felt genuine. Her brother and her father lost someone too and it felt like they were just so incredibly done with her.
The town they move into must be the Scottish version of Hollywood because everybody there is fucking gorgeous apparently.
Except the bad guys. Because bad guys can't be pretty ever. (Except Hiddleston. Exception to every rule) The important people are pretty. It was just so over the top cliched that it made me want to throw something. A bunch of teenagers running wild, drinking, partying, and being incredibly stupid with little parental supervision. Is this the YA Paranormal version of every high school teen movie made?
And finally, the romance...
It felt stupid and fake. There are better ways to do ghostly boyfriends and this was the worst rendition of it I've ever seen. The whole point of falling in love with a ghost is that you can't fucking touch them or have any sort of physical relationship. It's supposed to torture you. That never happened in this book. The only inconvenient part of him being a ghost is that he would lost energy. They nearly had ghostly sex which would have been awfully convenient since he couldn't get you pregnant. (OMG Ghost babies)
So yeah...don't waste your time or your money. I got the box set of the series but for the first time, I'm deleting something from my kindle library. It's not worth keeping.
Review also posted at Tara Belle Talking
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May 28, 2013I really, REALLY liked & enjoyed this story! :)
I've read some of the other reviews where people didn't like how the love between Ian & Riley happened so quickly. I guess I just find it ironic that people choose to buy into a love story happening WITH a ghost, but it just can't happen fast? LOL Haven't we all met someone who sparked our interest, or made us feel things immediately, without any rhyme or reason? Or been drawn/pulled toward someone we just met? Things like that can and do happen everyday, so that part of the story didn't seem far fetched or unreal to me at all. But then again, I fully believe in ghosts, spirits, communicating with the "dead" and all that kind of stuff. :) Plus, when we're teenagers, EVERYTHING happens in warp speed...especially our feelings for boys. I liked their story. I felt emotionally pulled toward it. And I was sad for Riley when it had to (obviously) end.
Aside from the love story, I really liked the relationship between Riley and her brother Shane. I loved how he grew throughout the story to mend their fractured relationship and how, when it truly mattered, he wanted to protect and defend her. He's a great character who I hope will be more involved in the rest of the series! :)
I'm definitely interested to hear more about Laria and what the hell her problem really is. She was an interesting character, but I feel like we still have a lot to learn about her.
Overall, I really, really enjoyed this book and loved being brought into a new world with castles, history and characters who believed in the spirit world and the presence of ghosts. I can't wait to read the rest of this series!
I've read some of the other reviews where people didn't like how the love between Ian & Riley happened so quickly. I guess I just find it ironic that people choose to buy into a love story happening WITH a ghost, but it just can't happen fast? LOL Haven't we all met someone who sparked our interest, or made us feel things immediately, without any rhyme or reason? Or been drawn/pulled toward someone we just met? Things like that can and do happen everyday, so that part of the story didn't seem far fetched or unreal to me at all. But then again, I fully believe in ghosts, spirits, communicating with the "dead" and all that kind of stuff. :) Plus, when we're teenagers, EVERYTHING happens in warp speed...especially our feelings for boys. I liked their story. I felt emotionally pulled toward it. And I was sad for Riley when it had to (obviously) end.
Aside from the love story, I really liked the relationship between Riley and her brother Shane. I loved how he grew throughout the story to mend their fractured relationship and how, when it truly mattered, he wanted to protect and defend her. He's a great character who I hope will be more involved in the rest of the series! :)
I'm definitely interested to hear more about Laria and what the hell her problem really is. She was an interesting character, but I feel like we still have a lot to learn about her.
Overall, I really, really enjoyed this book and loved being brought into a new world with castles, history and characters who believed in the spirit world and the presence of ghosts. I can't wait to read the rest of this series!
January 10, 2012
4.5 stars
The Deepest Cut is one of those books I was really nervous about going into. For those of you who know me, know I don't do ghost well, but I still like the challenge. I want to like them. That's why I'm so happy to say that I loved this book. It has the perfect combination of freaky and heart. I had a blast reading this!
After the death of her mother, Riley Williams has a gift. She can see ghosts. When her father gets a new job in Scotland , Riley and her brother Shane are staring over and in a big inn for their home no less.
On the first night there, Riely meets Ian MacKinnon, a 200 hundred year old ghost who died at the young age of 19. But he didn't just die, he was poisoned and cursed by an obsessed servant who is determined for him to never find peace. Riley wants to help Ian out with her gifts but the warm friendship that she and Ian share isn't something that she wants to lose...
I had a lot of fun with this book. I really love the way J.A. Templeton writes. Her writing is strong and confident and the book moved with excellent flow. I was completely absorbed from start to finish.
I really liked Riley. She's stronger then she thinks she is, which is why I wasn't entirely sure about that whole cutting issue? I mean I understand that she was devastated and guilt-sickened about her mom and that she's not handling seeing ghost very well, but for the most part I think Riley has proven that she's capable, level headed and kind. The cutting bit seemed a bit out of character actually and not necessary to the story-line. But in a way it's almost like a metaphor for a different kind of deepest cut, so if I really think about it, it makes a little more sense. Or maybe Ian was the one who made her feel less...damaged?
Ah, Ian MacKinnon. What a sweetheart! The moment I meant him I knew he'd go breaking my heart by the end of the book. Which he did. I loved the friendship and connection he and Riley shared, making this even more bittersweet. I also really loved Shane in this book. At first I thought he was going to be a nothing-character, but his attitude improved immensely throughout the book and I was really happy about that. I've always loved strong brother/sister bonds in books.
As for Laria? Dame, she's one scary ass ghost. Loved the way Templeton developed this character. She totally nailed that deranged-freaky-revenged-out flavor in this girl. Definitely shutter-worthy stuff!
As for the ending, I liked it. Even though I wish things could have been different, I wouldn't have had this any other way. It wouldn't have been believable, or well, as believable as can be with a story like this anyways. I'm really looking forward to seeing what Kade is all about. I have some thoughts and hopes about that, but I guess we'll have to see. I'm also curious what Tom's problem was in this book. He was the only one who seemed hell bent on making Riley uncomfortable. Maybe he's related to Laria?
Ohhh and that very last scene? ~gasps~ I need The Haunted NOW! What.the.hell?!!?
All in all, I really loved this one. It was creepy and thrilling and warms your heart and gets right under your skin just the way a ghost story is suppose to.
Special thanks to J.A Templeton for sending me a copy for review, Loved it!!
The Deepest Cut is one of those books I was really nervous about going into. For those of you who know me, know I don't do ghost well, but I still like the challenge. I want to like them. That's why I'm so happy to say that I loved this book. It has the perfect combination of freaky and heart. I had a blast reading this!
After the death of her mother, Riley Williams has a gift. She can see ghosts. When her father gets a new job in Scotland , Riley and her brother Shane are staring over and in a big inn for their home no less.
On the first night there, Riely meets Ian MacKinnon, a 200 hundred year old ghost who died at the young age of 19. But he didn't just die, he was poisoned and cursed by an obsessed servant who is determined for him to never find peace. Riley wants to help Ian out with her gifts but the warm friendship that she and Ian share isn't something that she wants to lose...
I had a lot of fun with this book. I really love the way J.A. Templeton writes. Her writing is strong and confident and the book moved with excellent flow. I was completely absorbed from start to finish.
I really liked Riley. She's stronger then she thinks she is, which is why I wasn't entirely sure about that whole cutting issue? I mean I understand that she was devastated and guilt-sickened about her mom and that she's not handling seeing ghost very well, but for the most part I think Riley has proven that she's capable, level headed and kind. The cutting bit seemed a bit out of character actually and not necessary to the story-line. But in a way it's almost like a metaphor for a different kind of deepest cut, so if I really think about it, it makes a little more sense. Or maybe Ian was the one who made her feel less...damaged?
Ah, Ian MacKinnon. What a sweetheart! The moment I meant him I knew he'd go breaking my heart by the end of the book. Which he did. I loved the friendship and connection he and Riley shared, making this even more bittersweet. I also really loved Shane in this book. At first I thought he was going to be a nothing-character, but his attitude improved immensely throughout the book and I was really happy about that. I've always loved strong brother/sister bonds in books.
As for Laria? Dame, she's one scary ass ghost. Loved the way Templeton developed this character. She totally nailed that deranged-freaky-revenged-out flavor in this girl. Definitely shutter-worthy stuff!
As for the ending, I liked it. Even though I wish things could have been different, I wouldn't have had this any other way. It wouldn't have been believable, or well, as believable as can be with a story like this anyways. I'm really looking forward to seeing what Kade is all about. I have some thoughts and hopes about that, but I guess we'll have to see. I'm also curious what Tom's problem was in this book. He was the only one who seemed hell bent on making Riley uncomfortable. Maybe he's related to Laria?
Ohhh and that very last scene? ~gasps~ I need The Haunted NOW! What.the.hell?!!?
All in all, I really loved this one. It was creepy and thrilling and warms your heart and gets right under your skin just the way a ghost story is suppose to.
Special thanks to J.A Templeton for sending me a copy for review, Loved it!!
October 22, 2011
If you’re a fan of the tv shows Ghost Whisper, Medium and Vampire Diaries then you will love this book. It has a feel of Ghost Whisper and Medium because the heroine of the story is able to see and talk to ghosts. In addition, it has a feel of Vampire Diaries without the vampires, no vampires in this book. I say it's more a feel of that show in the aspect of the teenagers, witches, diaries, a crush on a guy whose old, and history coming full circle in the future/present.
Riley
Riley is the heroine of this book, she is also 16 years old. She also has the ability to see and talk to ghosts. Her mom died in a car accident that she was also in but survived. After the accident, her dad decided to take a new job in Scotland and move the family, which includes dad, Riley and Shane, which is Riley's brother in an old inn. Riley has to adjust to this new country and place where she has no friends as well as to keep the ghosts at bay because they do tend to follow her around and annoy her at times.
Shane
Riley's brother Shane is troubled by his mom's death. Great boy but Riley has to keep an eye on him. Riley and Shane’s relationship was a bit strained after their mother's passing but throughout the book became better.
Ian MacKinnon
Ian is 19 years old and is the ghost that Riley is able to see and has fallen in love with. She will also help him against Laria another ghost to break a cruse that has him earth bound over the past 200 years. As much as Riley wants to help Ian but she is torn because she knows once she helps Ian to cross over she will never see him again.
Laria
Laria is the ghost that has been earth bound over 200 years as well with Ian. I don't want to give too much away with her connection with Ian but she was the one who has cursed him so long ago. I have to say as silly as this sounds what I'm about say, I read this book at night with the lights off and while I'm reading about Laria, that girl gave me the heebee geebees she scared me in certain parts of the book. I think the author did a good job with Laria, because she did what she set out to do, made her evil.
Kade MacKinnon
We don't get to read much about Kade until the end but he plays an important part that will be shown more in book 2 of this book. He is a teenager but the way the author described Kade makes him seem hot and dreamy. I almost didn't want it to end when he enter the picture.
As for the other characters of the book, they all played an important part. Megan who is becoming Riley's best friend, Anne Marie who is much older and is like Riley with her abilities, Miss Akin the maid for the Inn and other key players. Reading this book, I wasn't sure what to expect and didn't want it to be just another teen book. However, after reading this book, it engaged me and I find myself rooting for Riley and Ian. The ending when Kade enter the picture was very exciting for me, though we will have to wait on book 2 of the McKinnon curse to further explore Kade, Riley and of course Laria and the history that could repeat itself.
Storyline: GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
www.romancenoveljunkies.com
Riley
Riley is the heroine of this book, she is also 16 years old. She also has the ability to see and talk to ghosts. Her mom died in a car accident that she was also in but survived. After the accident, her dad decided to take a new job in Scotland and move the family, which includes dad, Riley and Shane, which is Riley's brother in an old inn. Riley has to adjust to this new country and place where she has no friends as well as to keep the ghosts at bay because they do tend to follow her around and annoy her at times.
Shane
Riley's brother Shane is troubled by his mom's death. Great boy but Riley has to keep an eye on him. Riley and Shane’s relationship was a bit strained after their mother's passing but throughout the book became better.
Ian MacKinnon
Ian is 19 years old and is the ghost that Riley is able to see and has fallen in love with. She will also help him against Laria another ghost to break a cruse that has him earth bound over the past 200 years. As much as Riley wants to help Ian but she is torn because she knows once she helps Ian to cross over she will never see him again.
Laria
Laria is the ghost that has been earth bound over 200 years as well with Ian. I don't want to give too much away with her connection with Ian but she was the one who has cursed him so long ago. I have to say as silly as this sounds what I'm about say, I read this book at night with the lights off and while I'm reading about Laria, that girl gave me the heebee geebees she scared me in certain parts of the book. I think the author did a good job with Laria, because she did what she set out to do, made her evil.
Kade MacKinnon
We don't get to read much about Kade until the end but he plays an important part that will be shown more in book 2 of this book. He is a teenager but the way the author described Kade makes him seem hot and dreamy. I almost didn't want it to end when he enter the picture.
As for the other characters of the book, they all played an important part. Megan who is becoming Riley's best friend, Anne Marie who is much older and is like Riley with her abilities, Miss Akin the maid for the Inn and other key players. Reading this book, I wasn't sure what to expect and didn't want it to be just another teen book. However, after reading this book, it engaged me and I find myself rooting for Riley and Ian. The ending when Kade enter the picture was very exciting for me, though we will have to wait on book 2 of the McKinnon curse to further explore Kade, Riley and of course Laria and the history that could repeat itself.
Storyline: GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
www.romancenoveljunkies.com
March 7, 2012
OMG, OMG, OMG!!!! I LOVED this book!!! There are so many things that came together perfectly to make this such an awesome, addicting story. This is the first book by Templeton that I've read, and I'm fast becoming a huge fan of her writing.
This story throws you into a setting that is bone-chillingly creepy and intriguing at the same time, and I found myself immediately drawn to it. And where the characters could have fallen short of my expectations due to the exciting plot, they actually left me pleasantly surprised. The main characters as well as the secondaries were so well-written that I ended up not being able to put the book down because I couldn't wait to see what happened to them next. I laughed, I cried, and I melted all because these characters were so enjoyable!
I loved Riley from the start; she's strong-willed, tough, and has a lot of depth that really captivates you. Facing the guilt over her mother's death in the car crash and the resulting ability to see the dead, she is constantly battling her own demons. When she and her family move to and old Scottish inn for a chance to start over, she soon meets the sweet, sexy, and protective ghost of Ian MacKinnon. It doesn't take her long to realize she's growing feelings for Ian, but her ability puts her in the path of an evil spirit named Laria that is determined to keep her away from him. The "cutting" was really hard to read about, but I suppose it was to show Riley's growth as she came to accept her gift. As Riley settles into her new life and starts to make friends despite the dangers she faces from Laria, she comes to rely on Ian for more than just comfort and protection. I loved Ian and Riley together, they had such a beautiful bond that I just melted over. It felt like they were meant to be, soulmates that were surpassing the hurdles of life and death.
Ian, with his Scottish accent, smoldering blue eyes, and rock-hard body...ohhhhh, did I melt over him!! He was so tender with Riley, so when his sexy side came across my heart was just racing! I wish we had learned a little more about him along the way, but I ate up all of the glimpses into the past to when he was alive. My heart ached for him to be able to be with Riley, though I wondered throughout the whole story how it would ever be possible. The ending had me crying, both happy and sad tears, because these characters truly have a place in my heart!
There was a little bit of everything when it comes to the personalities of the secondary characters, which seems to be setting the stage for what will happen in the rest of the series. Tom, the rude boy that seems to have it out for Riley for no reason, will be an interesting development, I'm sure. I finished this book in less than a day, and I'm left dying to get my hands on the sequel tonight. I absolutely loved getting lost in this creepy world with Riley, and I can't wait to see where Templeton takes the story!
This story throws you into a setting that is bone-chillingly creepy and intriguing at the same time, and I found myself immediately drawn to it. And where the characters could have fallen short of my expectations due to the exciting plot, they actually left me pleasantly surprised. The main characters as well as the secondaries were so well-written that I ended up not being able to put the book down because I couldn't wait to see what happened to them next. I laughed, I cried, and I melted all because these characters were so enjoyable!
I loved Riley from the start; she's strong-willed, tough, and has a lot of depth that really captivates you. Facing the guilt over her mother's death in the car crash and the resulting ability to see the dead, she is constantly battling her own demons. When she and her family move to and old Scottish inn for a chance to start over, she soon meets the sweet, sexy, and protective ghost of Ian MacKinnon. It doesn't take her long to realize she's growing feelings for Ian, but her ability puts her in the path of an evil spirit named Laria that is determined to keep her away from him. The "cutting" was really hard to read about, but I suppose it was to show Riley's growth as she came to accept her gift. As Riley settles into her new life and starts to make friends despite the dangers she faces from Laria, she comes to rely on Ian for more than just comfort and protection. I loved Ian and Riley together, they had such a beautiful bond that I just melted over. It felt like they were meant to be, soulmates that were surpassing the hurdles of life and death.
Ian, with his Scottish accent, smoldering blue eyes, and rock-hard body...ohhhhh, did I melt over him!! He was so tender with Riley, so when his sexy side came across my heart was just racing! I wish we had learned a little more about him along the way, but I ate up all of the glimpses into the past to when he was alive. My heart ached for him to be able to be with Riley, though I wondered throughout the whole story how it would ever be possible. The ending had me crying, both happy and sad tears, because these characters truly have a place in my heart!
There was a little bit of everything when it comes to the personalities of the secondary characters, which seems to be setting the stage for what will happen in the rest of the series. Tom, the rude boy that seems to have it out for Riley for no reason, will be an interesting development, I'm sure. I finished this book in less than a day, and I'm left dying to get my hands on the sequel tonight. I absolutely loved getting lost in this creepy world with Riley, and I can't wait to see where Templeton takes the story!
January 24, 2012
This book started somewhat strong and ended with a WTF.
Riley, her younger brother, and Father make a move to Scotland. Mother has just died in a tragic car accident and Riley is the survivor. Riley can see spirits in the world now and she tries desperately to hide all signs of her ability since she's been treated like a mental patient since revealing this.
The Characters:
The relationship between Riley and her brother, Shane, is the high point. What I mean by this is that: it's the most realistic relationship and the only relationship that is fully fleshed out compared to the others. The other relationships that are somewhat unbelievable or just barely there include: the father who only appears to say a few fatherly things and then disappears for business, teenage peers that seem contrived and not worthy of much friendship, a grandmotherly housekeeper and her friend that have all the answers, and finally but not least her love interest and the "Hero" Ian.
Ian is a Mary Sue. Riley is a Mary Sue.
Content:
You get an HEA that has not been earned or really built toward properly. There are a few scarier moments earlier in the book and then the whole ghosts are creepy/scary just fizzles out by the halfway point because you're rolling your eyes about various things. Like how it's Scotland but it might as well be happening in your own neighborhood. Except that there is an ancient castle next door. That's about one of the few things that makes the setting seem "Scottish".
The cliffhanger ending- wtf. I am glad I'm not so intrigued and I don't care because it was a really B Teen movie cliff hanger.
This isn't my cup of tea, but some YA addicts out there will love this story.
I'm unbelievably exhausted right now so maybe when I've had some decent sleep I'll edit this later..but this will have to do for now.
Riley, her younger brother, and Father make a move to Scotland. Mother has just died in a tragic car accident and Riley is the survivor. Riley can see spirits in the world now and she tries desperately to hide all signs of her ability since she's been treated like a mental patient since revealing this.
The Characters:
The relationship between Riley and her brother, Shane, is the high point. What I mean by this is that: it's the most realistic relationship and the only relationship that is fully fleshed out compared to the others. The other relationships that are somewhat unbelievable or just barely there include: the father who only appears to say a few fatherly things and then disappears for business, teenage peers that seem contrived and not worthy of much friendship, a grandmotherly housekeeper and her friend that have all the answers, and finally but not least her love interest and the "Hero" Ian.
Ian is a Mary Sue. Riley is a Mary Sue.
Content:
You get an HEA that has not been earned or really built toward properly. There are a few scarier moments earlier in the book and then the whole ghosts are creepy/scary just fizzles out by the halfway point because you're rolling your eyes about various things. Like how it's Scotland but it might as well be happening in your own neighborhood. Except that there is an ancient castle next door. That's about one of the few things that makes the setting seem "Scottish".
The cliffhanger ending- wtf. I am glad I'm not so intrigued and I don't care because it was a really B Teen movie cliff hanger.
This isn't my cup of tea, but some YA addicts out there will love this story.
I'm unbelievably exhausted right now so maybe when I've had some decent sleep I'll edit this later..but this will have to do for now.
Read
September 5, 2011I stumbled upon the Labor Day Indie Book Blowout and this was the first book to catch my eye, admittedly because I think the cover is beautiful. I was instantly hooked by the Kindle sample and quickly purchased it. Can I just say this book is a total steal at $0.99?!
As for the story--I really enjoyed it. A fairly quick read that was creative and interesting and I guess you could say delightfully creepy. I really like Riley, and even liked her foul-mouthed little brother :P This leads me to something else I liked about this book: the teenagers seemed like real teenagers. I realize I'm about to sound like a hypocrite because I personally don't think teenagers should be using drugs and alcohol, but I still liked the fact that these kids were swearing and drinking at parties and contemplating sex. It made them more well-rounded and believable.
Often times I find myself rolling my eyes at some of the dialogue and things that happen in YA books. That didn't really happen with this book. And while I'm comparing it to other YA books, my only complaint would be that while I find some books are unnecessarily long and tedious, I felt this book could have actually benefited from the extra length. I think if it were a little more fleshed out, the creepy parts would have been even more creepy, and the romance would have been even more sweeter and believable.
I highly recommend YA fiction readers give this one a try. For the price you can't go wrong. I have to say, I am much more impressed by this indie book than I have been by a lot of the mediocre YA books I have read in the past. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
As for the story--I really enjoyed it. A fairly quick read that was creative and interesting and I guess you could say delightfully creepy. I really like Riley, and even liked her foul-mouthed little brother :P This leads me to something else I liked about this book: the teenagers seemed like real teenagers. I realize I'm about to sound like a hypocrite because I personally don't think teenagers should be using drugs and alcohol, but I still liked the fact that these kids were swearing and drinking at parties and contemplating sex. It made them more well-rounded and believable.
Often times I find myself rolling my eyes at some of the dialogue and things that happen in YA books. That didn't really happen with this book. And while I'm comparing it to other YA books, my only complaint would be that while I find some books are unnecessarily long and tedious, I felt this book could have actually benefited from the extra length. I think if it were a little more fleshed out, the creepy parts would have been even more creepy, and the romance would have been even more sweeter and believable.
I highly recommend YA fiction readers give this one a try. For the price you can't go wrong. I have to say, I am much more impressed by this indie book than I have been by a lot of the mediocre YA books I have read in the past. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
July 13, 2015
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
I am ashamed to say I have had this book since 2012! That is what happens with my stacks and my kindle books! Anyhoo.....I could not put this book down!
The book is set in beautiful Scotland. This is a ghost story, a ghost story in Scotland full of beautiful land, creepy castles, inns and cemeteries! There is some nice romance going on as well, nothing narly though.
So... Riley and her brother Shane are moved from Portland to Scotland after their dad takes a job there and they move to a town called Braemar. Their mother died in a car accident with Riley in the car a little over a year ago and their father thought they finally needed a change.. a big change. Thus he buys an old inn! Yep.. an inn, makes you start to think of a Scottish Stanley Hotel but much older :) He says they could rent out some of the rooms if people need it.. as if the kids liked that thought! Behind this old Inn is an old Castle. I think it would be a dream to see these places!
When Riley was in the accident with her mom and woke up in the hospital she realized she could see ghosts. This is not necessarily a good thing because most of the ghosts follow you around and talk your ear off, I mean it's understandable right? Who have they had to talk to in however many years!
Riley witnesses a ghost at the Inn right away, but she ignores him, until he follows her out to a little secluded place where he finds her doing something she shouldn't be doing. She finally decides to talk to him and of course he is this hot arse ghost! Who wouldn't want that as a ghost!
She finds out he used to live in the castle behind the inn and he was killed by a servant. Now, there are relatives down through the years that own the castle and are out of town on holiday at the moment. This ghost is called Ian MacKinnon and he's been dead some 200 years!
While Riley and her brother Shane make friends with groups of kids in the town, Riley is trying to also help Ian with the curse he has on him so he can cross over. Her dad hired a caretaker named Anne Marie who is very sweet and Riley can share her ghost abilities with her. She helps all she can.
Then.... you have the evil ghost, Laria, who killed Ian, trying to stop Riley and hurting her and people around her. She is one mean ghost!
All kinds of stuff happens and the end seems to be looking good and then BAM, nope.. to be continued.. just can't keep a bad ghost down!
I really enjoyed this book! I do look forward to the other books in the series. Maybe....depends on that mean ghost!
I am ashamed to say I have had this book since 2012! That is what happens with my stacks and my kindle books! Anyhoo.....I could not put this book down!
The book is set in beautiful Scotland. This is a ghost story, a ghost story in Scotland full of beautiful land, creepy castles, inns and cemeteries! There is some nice romance going on as well, nothing narly though.
So... Riley and her brother Shane are moved from Portland to Scotland after their dad takes a job there and they move to a town called Braemar. Their mother died in a car accident with Riley in the car a little over a year ago and their father thought they finally needed a change.. a big change. Thus he buys an old inn! Yep.. an inn, makes you start to think of a Scottish Stanley Hotel but much older :) He says they could rent out some of the rooms if people need it.. as if the kids liked that thought! Behind this old Inn is an old Castle. I think it would be a dream to see these places!
When Riley was in the accident with her mom and woke up in the hospital she realized she could see ghosts. This is not necessarily a good thing because most of the ghosts follow you around and talk your ear off, I mean it's understandable right? Who have they had to talk to in however many years!
Riley witnesses a ghost at the Inn right away, but she ignores him, until he follows her out to a little secluded place where he finds her doing something she shouldn't be doing. She finally decides to talk to him and of course he is this hot arse ghost! Who wouldn't want that as a ghost!
She finds out he used to live in the castle behind the inn and he was killed by a servant. Now, there are relatives down through the years that own the castle and are out of town on holiday at the moment. This ghost is called Ian MacKinnon and he's been dead some 200 years!
While Riley and her brother Shane make friends with groups of kids in the town, Riley is trying to also help Ian with the curse he has on him so he can cross over. Her dad hired a caretaker named Anne Marie who is very sweet and Riley can share her ghost abilities with her. She helps all she can.
Then.... you have the evil ghost, Laria, who killed Ian, trying to stop Riley and hurting her and people around her. She is one mean ghost!
All kinds of stuff happens and the end seems to be looking good and then BAM, nope.. to be continued.. just can't keep a bad ghost down!
I really enjoyed this book! I do look forward to the other books in the series. Maybe....depends on that mean ghost!
October 25, 2011
I loved this story. It was bittersweet and passionate. Riley was easy to relate to. I would think to most teen girls and even to women. From the blurb, it sounds like cutting is a huge part of the book, and it is a big issue, but it’s not at all what dominates this story. I understood how Riley could find a release in the control of cutting, using it as her outlet after her mother’s death. She had a lot of guilt inside her, blaming herself for the accident. But as the story progresses, we see Riley grow as she deals with these feelings and learns to handle her pain in more positive ways.
I really liked all the characters, even the side characters. A lot of teens in YA I don’t use true teen speak, or behave like them. But I really enjoyed watching these teens interact. Their speech and actions felt authentic for today’s teens. The author did an amazing job really pulling me into the story with realistic dialogue and situations. Now Laria? That girl is just creepy. I actually had to turn my lights on a couple of times while reading lol (I read on my phone). No spoilers, you’ll see! There were definitely some intense scenes, and I could totally envision it all through awesome description.
My favorite part of this story is the romance between Riley and Ian. Swoon! Ms. Templeton is down with the steamy. Their relationship didn’t feel rushed, and it developed into something strong and passionate. Near the end, I thought I was going to stomp around and start yelling. I kept waiting for something else to happen, but I think the way it ends, although like I said, bittersweet, is best. And with an introduction of another character, I’m looking forward to reading book 2 and seeing where things to! This is a must read for anyone who loves ghost stories, romance, and just wants a fantastic YA read.
I really liked all the characters, even the side characters. A lot of teens in YA I don’t use true teen speak, or behave like them. But I really enjoyed watching these teens interact. Their speech and actions felt authentic for today’s teens. The author did an amazing job really pulling me into the story with realistic dialogue and situations. Now Laria? That girl is just creepy. I actually had to turn my lights on a couple of times while reading lol (I read on my phone). No spoilers, you’ll see! There were definitely some intense scenes, and I could totally envision it all through awesome description.
My favorite part of this story is the romance between Riley and Ian. Swoon! Ms. Templeton is down with the steamy. Their relationship didn’t feel rushed, and it developed into something strong and passionate. Near the end, I thought I was going to stomp around and start yelling. I kept waiting for something else to happen, but I think the way it ends, although like I said, bittersweet, is best. And with an introduction of another character, I’m looking forward to reading book 2 and seeing where things to! This is a must read for anyone who loves ghost stories, romance, and just wants a fantastic YA read.
December 8, 2015
After a car crash, Riley Williams loses her mom yet gains the ability to see ghosts. Her father decides to move the family to Scotland for his job; however, it seems as it might be a permanent move. Their family moves into an old inn, and that's when she first notices Ian MacKinnon - a nineteen year old who was poisoned 200 years ago. After Riley befriends Ian, she is determined to rid the curse that keeps him from crossing over into the afterlife. She runs across a problem, though. The young woman who is at fault for poisoning and killing Ian has made a ghostly reappearance and will stop at nothing to keep Riley from helping Ian to cross over.
I really, really liked this.. butttttt, there was just something missing. In the beginning, Riley is able to walk through Ian because well... he's a ghost. Then the next thing I know, he's holding her and caressing her? What. That wasn't enough to put me off, but it surely confused me. Overall, I really liked the story and I do look forward to eventually reading the rest of the series.
**Trigger warning** for those of you who are triggered by self-harm, there are only a couple of instances that are mentioned of Riley self-harming. It was not the primary focus of the book; however, I feel obligated to let the public know (even if it is mentioned in the synopsis).
I really, really liked this.. butttttt, there was just something missing. In the beginning, Riley is able to walk through Ian because well... he's a ghost. Then the next thing I know, he's holding her and caressing her? What. That wasn't enough to put me off, but it surely confused me. Overall, I really liked the story and I do look forward to eventually reading the rest of the series.
**Trigger warning** for those of you who are triggered by self-harm, there are only a couple of instances that are mentioned of Riley self-harming. It was not the primary focus of the book; however, I feel obligated to let the public know (even if it is mentioned in the synopsis).
July 18, 2020
A bit scary if you ask me.
Heres the thing, I like suspense and mystery, but not horror and even though I would not classify this book as a Horror book, it was still more scary than my comfort level. I also dont watch scary movies and freely admit to being a big baby about this so I wouldn't be surprised to find no one else was scarred when reading this. However, the book itself was very good and easily kept my attention the entire time. It was very esy to fall into and I enjoyed it. Give it a go if you're not a pansy like me ;)
Heres the thing, I like suspense and mystery, but not horror and even though I would not classify this book as a Horror book, it was still more scary than my comfort level. I also dont watch scary movies and freely admit to being a big baby about this so I wouldn't be surprised to find no one else was scarred when reading this. However, the book itself was very good and easily kept my attention the entire time. It was very esy to fall into and I enjoyed it. Give it a go if you're not a pansy like me ;)
November 28, 2011
How far would you go for true love?
Would you fight for it?
Would you love them enough to let them go forever?
These are the questions that plague Riley when she meets Ian, a Scottish (and did I mention hot?) ghost that haunts her house.
Ian is cursed and therefore is bound to the house until someone can break it, and that someone just so happens to be Riley.
But what happens when Riley falls in love with him and doesn't want him to go? When she can't bear to be without him. When the one person that understands her and brings her happiness after not having it for so long, must leave her forever?
Will she be strong enough to let go anyways? Will love will conquer all?
This was such a fantastic read! The romance in it was sweet between Ian and Riley and even heartbreaking at times.
I felt for Riley in this book, with the guilt of the death of her mom hanging over her and then her love for Ian, it was just hauntingly (no pun intended) good.
I loved the mystery behind Ian's curse and of course Laria, was just super creepy, so creepy in fact that I am thankful I didn't read this book at night. I think I would of had a hard time going to sleep if I had.
The side characters in this story are just as good as the main ones and you can't help but fall in love with them all and feel connected with them.
I love how this story ended too, so bittersweet. I can't wait for the next in the series to come out. I really enjoyed reading this book and really look forward to learning what happens next and to getting to know all of the characters better and so glad that their story isn't over yet.
Would you fight for it?
Would you love them enough to let them go forever?
These are the questions that plague Riley when she meets Ian, a Scottish (and did I mention hot?) ghost that haunts her house.
Ian is cursed and therefore is bound to the house until someone can break it, and that someone just so happens to be Riley.
But what happens when Riley falls in love with him and doesn't want him to go? When she can't bear to be without him. When the one person that understands her and brings her happiness after not having it for so long, must leave her forever?
Will she be strong enough to let go anyways? Will love will conquer all?
This was such a fantastic read! The romance in it was sweet between Ian and Riley and even heartbreaking at times.
I felt for Riley in this book, with the guilt of the death of her mom hanging over her and then her love for Ian, it was just hauntingly (no pun intended) good.
I loved the mystery behind Ian's curse and of course Laria, was just super creepy, so creepy in fact that I am thankful I didn't read this book at night. I think I would of had a hard time going to sleep if I had.
The side characters in this story are just as good as the main ones and you can't help but fall in love with them all and feel connected with them.
I love how this story ended too, so bittersweet. I can't wait for the next in the series to come out. I really enjoyed reading this book and really look forward to learning what happens next and to getting to know all of the characters better and so glad that their story isn't over yet.
January 13, 2012
This one had so much potential *sigh* But I wasn't interested in any of the characters at all.
I spent the first 1/3 of the book wanting to know about the spiritual world this author had created, the other 2/3 I didn't care anymore (And I never got straight answers). That wouldn't have mattered, if at least one of the characters were likeable, deep, realistic... but for me Templeton needs a better understanding of the teenage mind. Despite all, I still wanted to get to the end, because sometimes a great ending can convert an Ok story in a good one, right? This wasn't the case, the end was unoriginal.
Not even the romance kept me interested enough, Riley and Ian fell in love practically in 3 minutes and without apparent reason.
I spent the first 1/3 of the book wanting to know about the spiritual world this author had created, the other 2/3 I didn't care anymore (And I never got straight answers). That wouldn't have mattered, if at least one of the characters were likeable, deep, realistic... but for me Templeton needs a better understanding of the teenage mind. Despite all, I still wanted to get to the end, because sometimes a great ending can convert an Ok story in a good one, right? This wasn't the case, the end was unoriginal.
Not even the romance kept me interested enough, Riley and Ian fell in love practically in 3 minutes and without apparent reason.
December 24, 2017
Riley is involved in a car crash with her mother, who dies, and now has the gift of seeing spirits. Her father moves them to Scotland (from Portland) for a change of scenery and she encounters lots of spirits - good and bad - even getting her instalove happening with one of them.
Yes it’s all very silly. And at times laughable. But for some reason I quite liked it LOL
It is a short book and ends on a hilarious cliffhanger (although I think it’s actually meant to be suspenseful) so perhaps I’ll get to book two eventually.
Yes it’s all very silly. And at times laughable. But for some reason I quite liked it LOL
It is a short book and ends on a hilarious cliffhanger (although I think it’s actually meant to be suspenseful) so perhaps I’ll get to book two eventually.
did-not-finish
March 14, 2012I'm sorry, guys. Every time I attempted to get any further in this book my brain threatened to cease functioning. The writing is exceedingly choppy and unfocused. The plot is about as unimaginative as one can get. I don't like any of the other characters enough to force myself further.
July 10, 2013
I am glad this book was free. I was really hoping for a creepy, scary ghost story. This is partly my fault, I didn't read the description of the book before I read it. I just looked at the title, the cover and comments from others about freaky ghost stories.
So not my kind of book.
So not my kind of book.
January 13, 2012
Originally posted @ Book Whales
What will do if you love someone you can't have?
Would you fight for it?
or Would you let go?
Wow, no words can really describe this book. This book is spectacular!. It was well executed and the story is believable. The author did a good job in describing the inn, castle, cemetery and the history of the MacKinnon's . I was deeply engrossed in the world she made, Scotland is the perfect place for this.
The characters are realistic. I connected to Riley instantly. I felt her pain and emotions. She was so real to me, I got too attached to this heroine. I also like how strong she was, the way she handled her gift. I don't want to put myself in her shoes. The gripping and nail-biting scenarios the author made was too much for me. I fell in love with Ian. Oh boy! he is hot, mysterious and kind. Though I sympathize with him, he was forced to roam his land for centuries, because of a curse. Alone...with no one to talked to for 200 years until Riley. The other characters like Megan, Tom, Cassandra, Dana, Johan and Milo reminds me of my friends back in High School. The dramas, parties, gossips and the BOYS are so real and close to reality. I can't get enough of this book. It was creepy and a breathe of fresh air at the same time. I literally read this book with my lights on, that's how scary this book is.
Overall, I would recommend this book to people who loves horror, ghosts, romance and action. This book is a whole package. The only thing that I don't like about this book is the ending, it was a cliffhanger!! Good thing I came upon this book a day before book 2! yay for me.
Rating:
What will do if you love someone you can't have?
Would you fight for it?
or Would you let go?
Wow, no words can really describe this book. This book is spectacular!. It was well executed and the story is believable. The author did a good job in describing the inn, castle, cemetery and the history of the MacKinnon's . I was deeply engrossed in the world she made, Scotland is the perfect place for this.
The characters are realistic. I connected to Riley instantly. I felt her pain and emotions. She was so real to me, I got too attached to this heroine. I also like how strong she was, the way she handled her gift. I don't want to put myself in her shoes. The gripping and nail-biting scenarios the author made was too much for me. I fell in love with Ian. Oh boy! he is hot, mysterious and kind. Though I sympathize with him, he was forced to roam his land for centuries, because of a curse. Alone...with no one to talked to for 200 years until Riley. The other characters like Megan, Tom, Cassandra, Dana, Johan and Milo reminds me of my friends back in High School. The dramas, parties, gossips and the BOYS are so real and close to reality. I can't get enough of this book. It was creepy and a breathe of fresh air at the same time. I literally read this book with my lights on, that's how scary this book is.
Overall, I would recommend this book to people who loves horror, ghosts, romance and action. This book is a whole package. The only thing that I don't like about this book is the ending, it was a cliffhanger!! Good thing I came upon this book a day before book 2! yay for me.
Rating:
December 18, 2011
I have to admit that at first I thought this book would be like The Mediator by Meg Cabot. I don't know if you read this series but the story in Mediator is really similar, but the outcome totally different. And I must say I loved the difference! This book should totally get more attention, since it definitely made my list of best books this year. It's not like other books in which the romance is so obvious and going to end well no matter the obstacles in the way. The Deepest Cut has everything you want in a book: romance, supernatural aspects, genuine characters, great main characters, a hot love interest, amazing plot and good unfolding of events. It will make you deriously addicted to it and you will probably be up all night like me reading it!
for more on my review of The Deepest Cut:
http://bookstoconsider.blogspot.com/2...
for more on my review of The Deepest Cut:
http://bookstoconsider.blogspot.com/2...
January 18, 2012
OMG!! OMG!! OMG!! Holy Mother Craperolies!! The ending :O This so requires a sequel! And I need it asap!
This book is pretty much EXACTLY the kinda ghost book I like. The girl falls in love with the guy ghost even tho it can't be cause he's already dead but the whole Kade thing was a really awesome thinG! This way I don't feel so heartbroken about Ian.
I felt really sorry for Riley, her mom dies then she can see ghosts. That could suck for anyone :/
Anyway, this book is def awesome!! I started my 2012 book year with a really great amazing book! (:
I recommend EVERYONE read this!!
Update: I just realised there IS a sequel that is out right now. EEEEEEPPP!!
This book is pretty much EXACTLY the kinda ghost book I like. The girl falls in love with the guy ghost even tho it can't be cause he's already dead but the whole Kade thing was a really awesome thinG! This way I don't feel so heartbroken about Ian.
I felt really sorry for Riley, her mom dies then she can see ghosts. That could suck for anyone :/
Anyway, this book is def awesome!! I started my 2012 book year with a really great amazing book! (:
I recommend EVERYONE read this!!
Update: I just realised there IS a sequel that is out right now. EEEEEEPPP!!
September 14, 2011
Grumble grumble...I have to stop reading books unless I know the entire series is finished. Cause when you end a good book with a cliffhanger....AHHHHH!!! So yeah, I really enjoyed it.
UPDATE: changing review to 3.5. Got so caught up in the ending, forgot how much I didn't like the corporealness of the ghost (with all the hugging and kissing)....I couldn't change my view from ghosts being untouchable, and so it was distracting...but it wouldn't have been as much fun if they couldn't touch. So this was mostly a problem on my end.
UPDATE: changing review to 3.5. Got so caught up in the ending, forgot how much I didn't like the corporealness of the ghost (with all the hugging and kissing)....I couldn't change my view from ghosts being untouchable, and so it was distracting...but it wouldn't have been as much fun if they couldn't touch. So this was mostly a problem on my end.
November 8, 2011
All I can say is WOW! I had a terrible time putting this one down. More of a mystery than a romance but there was a definite romantic (but clean) element to the story. The heroine you just instantly connected with and felt her pain. The story was fascinating and the creepy elements were downright horror movie scary. There is an HEA but it's left open ended with a bit of a twist. You won't be disappointed and I cannot wait for the sequel!
October 28, 2011
One test of a really good book is whether you feel like you know the narrator by the end. Templeton’s Riley felt like a good friend by the time I finished reading. Take Riley and mix her with some other fantastic characters, a descriptive setting and a wonderful intensity and you get an amazing result. I am excited to see where the series goes next.
Want to read
January 7, 2013Free today @ Kobo & Amazon US. B&N is offering for 99 cents.
September 26, 2015
I picked up The deepest cut because the cover caught my attention. Then I read the synopsis and I decided to buy it.
But... It wasn't what I was expecting.
First I don't like when ghosts go all solid because they need to make out with your resident good girl turned medium, who happens to be the only person who can see them. Same thing happened with Apparition and La promessa: ghosts that become visible just for one person with no reason. I do miss the old ghosts who used to stay incorporeal... There's a redeeming quality in Templeton's ghosts, though: they need energy and they feed of light bulbs and other appliances in other to be visible. And they disappear because they run out of energy.
But why can they read minds? Since when can ghosts do it?
Another thing I disliked about this book was the insta-love. It took Riley and Ian 2,8 seconds to fall madly in love with each other. And it took 0,4 for Riley to decide to do whatever it takes to help Ian crossing over. It all was so rushed.
In addition, it seems that Riley was the only good girl in the book. Laria was a psychopath. Cassandra was just mean. Megan was spineless and a blatter-mouth. Without even mentioning the nameless girls throwing themselves at Johan.
And now... the cutting. OK, I haven't read something about a cutter in ages. The last thing being a manga, if I remember correctly, and I disliked it very much. Anyway, what does the cutting add to the story? And why is Riley so surprised when she feels the impulse to cut even if she's decided to stop with it? It is an impulse-control behavior problem: it doesn't go away just because you snap you fingers and wish for it to disappear. And I'm pretty sure that it doesn't disappear just because one meets the love of her life.
Some other reviews said that this book scared them very much. I wasn't scared at all. Not by the scene in the cemetery, not my Laria's attempt at frightening Riley. Nothing. No strong emotions whatsoever. Laria is not scary: she's just your typical psychopath with lots of power and a huge desire for revenge.
And what about
I'm not interested in reading the following volumes. SIGH!
But... It wasn't what I was expecting.
First I don't like when ghosts go all solid because they need to make out with your resident good girl turned medium, who happens to be the only person who can see them. Same thing happened with Apparition and La promessa: ghosts that become visible just for one person with no reason. I do miss the old ghosts who used to stay incorporeal... There's a redeeming quality in Templeton's ghosts, though: they need energy and they feed of light bulbs and other appliances in other to be visible. And they disappear because they run out of energy.
But why can they read minds? Since when can ghosts do it?
Another thing I disliked about this book was the insta-love. It took Riley and Ian 2,8 seconds to fall madly in love with each other. And it took 0,4 for Riley to decide to do whatever it takes to help Ian crossing over. It all was so rushed.
In addition, it seems that Riley was the only good girl in the book. Laria was a psychopath. Cassandra was just mean. Megan was spineless and a blatter-mouth. Without even mentioning the nameless girls throwing themselves at Johan.
And now... the cutting. OK, I haven't read something about a cutter in ages. The last thing being a manga, if I remember correctly, and I disliked it very much. Anyway, what does the cutting add to the story? And why is Riley so surprised when she feels the impulse to cut even if she's decided to stop with it? It is an impulse-control behavior problem: it doesn't go away just because you snap you fingers and wish for it to disappear. And I'm pretty sure that it doesn't disappear just because one meets the love of her life.
Some other reviews said that this book scared them very much. I wasn't scared at all. Not by the scene in the cemetery, not my Laria's attempt at frightening Riley. Nothing. No strong emotions whatsoever. Laria is not scary: she's just your typical psychopath with lots of power and a huge desire for revenge.
And what about
I'm not interested in reading the following volumes. SIGH!
January 10, 2012
My Rating: 4.0 / 5
First thoughts:
After having read other bloggers' reviews I expected this to be a suspenseful and creepy read and I definitely wasn't disappointed. With an intriguing setting and a ghost that makes me want to hide beneath my bed covers, J.A. Templeton managed to create an addicting novel which I can definitely recommend for lovers of paranormal Young Adult stories.
More detailed:
The Deepest Cut tells Riley Williams' story who moves with her father and her brother to a small town in Scotland to get over the accident who has taken her mother's life and given her the ability to see ghosts. One of them is Ian MacKinnon, a good-looking boy who is cursed to be bound to the place where he died and who might just be able to steal Riley's heart.
Riley is a very intriguing and three-dimensional character. Her mother's death and the way she is constantly blaming herself for this turn her into a sad, but not whiny, young girl. She has to deal with a lot of different feelings and I loved witnessing her journey from being hopeless to starting to feel happy and content in Scotland.
Meeting Ian and helping him to find a way to lift his curse helped her to move on. While I would have loved to find out more about Ian and found him to be a somewhat one-dimensional character, I loved how his presence changed Riley's life. Their feelings for each other moved a bit too fast for my taste though, but nonetheless I enjoyed reading about them.
Luckily Laria, the woman who killed Ian and is now a ghost as well, doesn't enjoy seeing them together, so she tries to make their relationship and their attempts at freeing Ian a lot more difficult. She is definitely not a nice ghost and increases this novel's creepiness factor a lot. No matter how much I wanted to hate her, the scenes in which she appears are awesome.
I absolutely loved the ending of The Deepest Cut. It was sad but hopeful and beautiful at the same time and the cliffhanger of the last paragraph makes me want to pick up the second novel of this series as soon as it's released. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and think you should pick up a copy of this if you enjoy creepy ghost stories with a heart-warming love story.
First thoughts:
After having read other bloggers' reviews I expected this to be a suspenseful and creepy read and I definitely wasn't disappointed. With an intriguing setting and a ghost that makes me want to hide beneath my bed covers, J.A. Templeton managed to create an addicting novel which I can definitely recommend for lovers of paranormal Young Adult stories.
More detailed:
The Deepest Cut tells Riley Williams' story who moves with her father and her brother to a small town in Scotland to get over the accident who has taken her mother's life and given her the ability to see ghosts. One of them is Ian MacKinnon, a good-looking boy who is cursed to be bound to the place where he died and who might just be able to steal Riley's heart.
Riley is a very intriguing and three-dimensional character. Her mother's death and the way she is constantly blaming herself for this turn her into a sad, but not whiny, young girl. She has to deal with a lot of different feelings and I loved witnessing her journey from being hopeless to starting to feel happy and content in Scotland.
Meeting Ian and helping him to find a way to lift his curse helped her to move on. While I would have loved to find out more about Ian and found him to be a somewhat one-dimensional character, I loved how his presence changed Riley's life. Their feelings for each other moved a bit too fast for my taste though, but nonetheless I enjoyed reading about them.
Luckily Laria, the woman who killed Ian and is now a ghost as well, doesn't enjoy seeing them together, so she tries to make their relationship and their attempts at freeing Ian a lot more difficult. She is definitely not a nice ghost and increases this novel's creepiness factor a lot. No matter how much I wanted to hate her, the scenes in which she appears are awesome.
I absolutely loved the ending of The Deepest Cut. It was sad but hopeful and beautiful at the same time and the cliffhanger of the last paragraph makes me want to pick up the second novel of this series as soon as it's released. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and think you should pick up a copy of this if you enjoy creepy ghost stories with a heart-warming love story.
November 8, 2011
I feel so upset after finishing this book!! I was so emotionally invested then it just ended! :'( Very disappointing that I have to wait until Lord knows when for the next book because I truly loved this story!! I could literally turn around and re-read it right now and I'd still love it!!
I liked that Riley was a real teenager dealing with her grief the best way she knew how. I liked that Riley and Shane both seemed to be real life kids who argue and get on each others' nerves but they also stuck together and looked out for one another. I also liked that there were real life things going on in this book. I don't condone teenage drinking or drugs and such but some of that was what made the story real. I also liked that there were swear words in the book. I know some people would think that's silly but a lot of kids swear and it made them feel like real people to me. I truly loved Ian as well. At first when he came into the story all caring and calling Riley "lass"... I could almost hear that beautiful accent through the pages of the story and (swoons)... Ian was just perfect.
I had so many mixed emotions at the end... I'm certainly intrigued to find out what the deal with Kade is. I also liked Cait as an additional character towards the end. She seems like someone I could connect with as a reader and I look forward to reading more about her as well. I loved Miss. Akin and Anne Marie as well, can't wait to find out what else they have to teach Riley.
I loved the setting of the book, any reference to Scotland is about as perfect as it can get, so that aspect of the book was amazing. Even the castle and the inn made me feel like I was looking at it through Riley's eyes... I just loved it. I both loved and hated the ending... loved it because it gave me hope for more books and hated it because it had to end. I seriously can't wait for the next book to come out! Hands down an amazing book that has a perfect amount of creep factor, romance and real life drama! I hope the next one comes out soon!!
I liked that Riley was a real teenager dealing with her grief the best way she knew how. I liked that Riley and Shane both seemed to be real life kids who argue and get on each others' nerves but they also stuck together and looked out for one another. I also liked that there were real life things going on in this book. I don't condone teenage drinking or drugs and such but some of that was what made the story real. I also liked that there were swear words in the book. I know some people would think that's silly but a lot of kids swear and it made them feel like real people to me. I truly loved Ian as well. At first when he came into the story all caring and calling Riley "lass"... I could almost hear that beautiful accent through the pages of the story and (swoons)... Ian was just perfect.
I had so many mixed emotions at the end... I'm certainly intrigued to find out what the deal with Kade is. I also liked Cait as an additional character towards the end. She seems like someone I could connect with as a reader and I look forward to reading more about her as well. I loved Miss. Akin and Anne Marie as well, can't wait to find out what else they have to teach Riley.
I loved the setting of the book, any reference to Scotland is about as perfect as it can get, so that aspect of the book was amazing. Even the castle and the inn made me feel like I was looking at it through Riley's eyes... I just loved it. I both loved and hated the ending... loved it because it gave me hope for more books and hated it because it had to end. I seriously can't wait for the next book to come out! Hands down an amazing book that has a perfect amount of creep factor, romance and real life drama! I hope the next one comes out soon!!
July 26, 2012
The Deepest Cut is a cute little ghost story, but unfortunately it seems to be an age appropriate YA book, rather than the sort of YA which an adult can appreciate. Ever since Riley barely survived the car crash which killed her mother, she has been able to see and communicate with ghosts. Naturally, this freaks her a little bit, and she ignores them to the best of her ability.
Looking to start over after the crash, Riley's dad decides to move to a big, old inn in Scotland. Conveniently, dad's job keeps him out of the picture for most of the book, leaving Riley alone for most of the time with her brother Shane and paranormal-believer housekeeper, Miss Akin. This could have been a cool, creepy story except...
We don't get any sense that the setting is Scotland. There are a few token mentions of "lass" and "bloody hell". Otherwise, this story could have taken place pretty much anywhere.
Answers are appropriately found in old spell and witchcraft books. Even internet research helps a little. Really? If that is the case, the paranormal is real and spells really work... wouldn't every kid with a library card be a sorceress? It's a pet peeve of mine when difficult answers are easily found.
The ghosts in this story happen to be corporeal. All the time. Hmmm… not buying it. Part of the sweetness and sadness of ghost stories is that they can feel so many emotions, but there is no physical being to, well, hold on to. When a ghost has a body which can be felt… is it still a ghost?
Riley cuts, but this isn’t a cutting issue book. Rather, it seems to be just thrown in there.
The bitchy girls are fairly one dimensional in their bitchiness.
The Deepest Cut isn’t a bad story. But it lacks a lot of depth, and will likely leave adult readers of YA unsatisfied. It is doubtful I will continue with this series.
Looking to start over after the crash, Riley's dad decides to move to a big, old inn in Scotland. Conveniently, dad's job keeps him out of the picture for most of the book, leaving Riley alone for most of the time with her brother Shane and paranormal-believer housekeeper, Miss Akin. This could have been a cool, creepy story except...
We don't get any sense that the setting is Scotland. There are a few token mentions of "lass" and "bloody hell". Otherwise, this story could have taken place pretty much anywhere.
Answers are appropriately found in old spell and witchcraft books. Even internet research helps a little. Really? If that is the case, the paranormal is real and spells really work... wouldn't every kid with a library card be a sorceress? It's a pet peeve of mine when difficult answers are easily found.
The ghosts in this story happen to be corporeal. All the time. Hmmm… not buying it. Part of the sweetness and sadness of ghost stories is that they can feel so many emotions, but there is no physical being to, well, hold on to. When a ghost has a body which can be felt… is it still a ghost?
Riley cuts, but this isn’t a cutting issue book. Rather, it seems to be just thrown in there.
The bitchy girls are fairly one dimensional in their bitchiness.
The Deepest Cut isn’t a bad story. But it lacks a lot of depth, and will likely leave adult readers of YA unsatisfied. It is doubtful I will continue with this series.
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