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The Light Key Trilogy #1
Scintillate
A mighty flame follows a tiny spark.
Cora Sandoval lives an insulated, unexciting life. Mostly, she blames her dad. Her mother disappeared from Ireland when she was five and he’s been a human handcuff ever since. Cora’s life suddenly propels into the extraordinary when she begins to see colorful lights around people. Everyone, that is, except herself—instead, she glows only a brilliant, luminous silver. Cora has reason to believe that someone is hunting and killing people like her—if there are any others like her who are still alive…
While investigating the danger associated with these auras, Cora is inexplicably drawn to Finn, a gorgeous Irish exchange student. Their attraction is instant, magnetic, and primal—but her father disapproves, and Finn’s mother abruptly orders him back to Ireland. As mysteries add up, Cora realizes that the small life she’s always known was a lie. On the run from a supernatural killer, she flees to Ireland to look for her missing mother and learn the truth about herself. There she meets another silver-haloed person and, amidst threats and danger, discovers the meaning of her newfound powers and their role in a conspiracy spanning centuries—one that could change mankind forever…if it doesn’t kill her first.
Cora Sandoval lives an insulated, unexciting life. Mostly, she blames her dad. Her mother disappeared from Ireland when she was five and he’s been a human handcuff ever since. Cora’s life suddenly propels into the extraordinary when she begins to see colorful lights around people. Everyone, that is, except herself—instead, she glows only a brilliant, luminous silver. Cora has reason to believe that someone is hunting and killing people like her—if there are any others like her who are still alive…
While investigating the danger associated with these auras, Cora is inexplicably drawn to Finn, a gorgeous Irish exchange student. Their attraction is instant, magnetic, and primal—but her father disapproves, and Finn’s mother abruptly orders him back to Ireland. As mysteries add up, Cora realizes that the small life she’s always known was a lie. On the run from a supernatural killer, she flees to Ireland to look for her missing mother and learn the truth about herself. There she meets another silver-haloed person and, amidst threats and danger, discovers the meaning of her newfound powers and their role in a conspiracy spanning centuries—one that could change mankind forever…if it doesn’t kill her first.
295 pages, Paperback
First published February 4, 2014
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February 6, 2014
Not only was he a danger to me physically, he was dangerous to my heart. And now I had a new worry: how many innocent people did I condemn to death because I saved his life?
This book is teenaged wish fulfillment at its most insipid. It is banal, it is tired old recycled tripe; I can't even hate it because the author does such a good job of catering to a very specific audience so well. It is a Twilight clone of the highest order, and of the lowest quality.
Do you want a lesson on unoriginality? Read this book. This book will sell, and I predict that it sells well because it captures everything that an audience with a taste for a starry-eyed love affair will ever want. More discerning readers will want to stay away because this book is fantasy-driven xerox of a million other Young Adult Twilight clones.
How do you write an YA fantasy that caters solely to a starry-eyed girl's fantasies? You take everything that is bad, everything that is a trope, a cliché in YA paranormal and fantasy and you put it together in one neat package.
There is nothing original about this book. The romance is of the insta-love sort. There is no courtship, there is no building of relationships. There is, however:
1. A moonlit fantasy of a romance, with adamant declarations of eternal love before 1/4 of the book is through
2. A love triangle between a plain-but-really-beautiful girl who, upon discovering that she is "different," captures the heart of two vastly different, astoundingly handsome young men.
The Tropes:
1. The "Different" Girl:
“You’re different from them.”Did you hear that? That's the sound of me rolling my eyes. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, we have another special girl on our hand.
Story of my life. I’d always been different, never fit in, but he had no idea how different I felt lately. “That’s probably not a compliment, but I’ll take it as one.”
Cora. The one girl who has always felt, somehow, that she is DIFFERENT from everyone else.
Because fuck DNA, right? Fuck the fact that every single one of us is different. Fuck the fact that every single one of us is individual to the very strands of our building blocks.
I hate it when characters label themselves as "different." You are not. Claiming you are "different" is meaningless, and to me, it loudly declares "I AM A SPECIAL FUCKING SNOWFLAKE."
Get the fuck over yourself.
2. The Beautiful Girl Who Doesn't See It:
All I inherited from my mother was my fair Irish complexion. My curvy figure was pure Chileno, as was my hair: deep brown, almost black, and wild as if it had been wound around thick tree branches every night.Tree branches, huh? You don't say! So here's a girl with pale, beautiful, flawless skin, curvy in just the right places, hair that's beautifully, enviably thick...
...and she thinks she's just freakin' ordinary, y'all.
Oh, and her lashes! They're just too fucking long! LONG EYELASHES ARE SOOOOOO UGLY.
It was me in the picture, without a doubt. The same wild hair, the same big green eyes and spider lashes. I remembered getting in huge trouble for cutting them one day because a boy at the park told me they looked like spider’s legs.Give me a break.
3. The Attractive Aura:
“There’s something different about you that draws people to you. Grace was like that.” He glanced up at me, then quickly back down at his glass. “It’s always been this way. When you were little, it was animals. Any stray thing would follow you home. No sooner would I take you to a park than a bunch of kids would be trailing after you. Even adults, they’d stare.”I'm sorry, Cora, is your other name The Pied Piper?
4. The OTHER Aura: Cora is special, we've established that, but not only is she different, not only is she special without knowing it, not only is she beautiful without knowing it, she also has the ability to see auras.
And she has an aura herself.
One that nobody else has.
A silver aura.
All morning long I had floundered in my classes, distracted by the subtle haze surrounding my classmates and teachers and the gradations of the colors around them.Well, tarnation! Even her aura is special. So special, you can say it's...mythological. Like a fucking unicorn.
It was confusing, and rather than forging a connection to people, it made me feel more different and alone than ever. Especially because the only color I ever saw radiating from myself was bright silver. It never varied.
Not once did I see another person with a silver shadow like mine.
“I’ve read about it, or heard about it. I can’t remember which. But I do remember this—silver ones are very rare. Almost mythological. So rare they’re thought to be wiped from the earth.”I say "Neigh."
5. Mysterious, Dark, Handsome Young
Naturally, all the most popular girls in school go after Finn. Including Serena, the stunningly beautiful Queen Bee.
Serena eyed Finn with a predatory glint, following his gaze to where I sat. She sauntered over to where he was set up, leaned in boob-grazingly close, and whispered something in his ear.But fuck bitches, fuck 'em all. Even Finn says so.
Finn stopped. “Shut your gob, you thundering bitch.”OH, WHAT A FUCKING GENTLEMAN YOU ARE. YOU CALLED ANOTHER GIRL A BITCH JUST FOR ME. DON'T I FEEL SO FUCKING SPECIAL NOW.
Because NOTHING turns me on more than a guy who calls another girl a bitch. Are you fucking serious? You sorry excuse of a man.
They fall in love so rapidly, so astonishingly fast. In one moment, they're just talking, the next moment, she's sobbing her heart out to him as he holds her, still in the next, he looks lovingly into her eyes as he reassures her that she is his, love eternal. They're practically soul mates by the time the book is 1/3 of the way through.
His mouth moved softly against my neck. “Since I met you, nothing else exists. No one has ever touched me the way you do. You’re like a fookin’ hypnotist. I don’t know what you do to me, Cora Sandoval, but I can’t stay away from you.” He released me and stood back. “I can’t. I’m here, standing in front of you because I can’t.”
He cocked his head, blinked, and grinned. “You’re radiant, Cora. It’s the only word I can think of. You have a special light about you. People try so hard to shine. You do nothing, and you eclipse them all.”
6. Mysterious, Golden, Handsome Young
What's better than having one guy in love with you?! That's right! Having TWO guys in love with you for no fucking reason at all! Since Finn is all, like, dark and mysterious and stuff, the other guy's gotta be a blond, right? But also mysterious. LET'S MAKE HIM A BLOND DANISH-ITALIAN! (He's also got a heavy Italian accent, shh, just believe it!)
Giovanni smiled and gave a slight nod. “My mother, she was Danish. I take after her a bit on the outside. But on the inside, I’m pure Italian.”And there you have it, your teenaged love triangle fantasy come true. Fan-fucking-tastic.
He sure was. Mix a young Nordic Viking with a Roman emperor and you’d have Giovanni Teso.
7. The Star-Crossed Lovers: Naturally, their families don't want them to hook up. It's less Romeo and Juliet, and more Twilight.
She smoothed her tightly drawn hair against her scalp. “I had hoped Finn was simply being melodramatic about his affections toward you. I had hoped it was merely a crush, as he is too young for any serious involvement. But I see it’s too late.” I’d never before heard someone use the word “hope” like a spear.Their families have Secrets That Must Not Be Revealed.
8. Speaking of Secrets: We have secrets aplenty. It's fucking dumb. It is a fact that the more you conceal from your kids, the more they will try to discover the fucking secret. It's another fact that if it's your kid's life on the line, you should fucking inform them. Especially when it's the fate of the world at stake.
I would like to find Finn's mother and Cora's father and sterilize them both.
9. Let's Run Away and Trust My Life To The Guy I've Known for All of 5 Minutes: Ireland. It is a long way from California. Half a world away. I am a grown-ass woman, my parents would be concerned if I were to all of a sudden run away to Ireland. Cora is 17-year old girl, who really, really fucking easily runs away to Ireland without any consequences at all.
And Finn's mom? Man, it's not like it's a criminal matter with serious legal consequences to hide a teenaged runaway or anything. Let's just let her stay in your enormous beautiful Irish mansion by the sea.
Of course it's a fucking mansion by the sea. Like Cora would ever be forced to stay in something so fucking unglamorous as a youth hostel when she runs away from home.
Christ on a cracker.
THE WRITING: I wouldn't say it's full of purple prose...but it's not good. There is a tremendous amount of really, really weird metaphors and figures of speeches that are just plain stupid.
Dad didn’t answer her. He did that—left questions lying on the ground like dirty socks.And...
“Thanks. Seriously though, your mouth is talking fashion,” Mari said, leveling her gaze at me, “but you look like you were just visited by a clown carrying a doll, with slasher music playing.”And let's not forget the illustrious rock and roll, teddy-bear hugging, maddeningly handsome Finn.
He looked like a rock-star poet, all the dark temptation of a rebel mixed with a sweetness, like maybe his biggest secret was the teddy bear under his pillow.Just stick to Twilight, really, if you are into this stuff. Why read a clone?
That messy blue-black hair, the scruff of beard, the spiral tattoo peeking out of his collar that teased me with mysteries carved in stones in the fog-drenched moss of Ireland.
January 20, 2014
I'm trying to figure out why people love it. What might have been once successful with Edward and Bella as pure wish fulfillment of teenage unicorns and dragons dreams might still work for pre-pubescent girls. Publishers sure think like that but I can’t believe that 14-year olds still fall for that crap: Mary Sue MC, slut shaming, insta-love paired up with totally unrealistic creepy-sugary dialogue, followed by love triangle including sparks flying literally and a lot of magic at work.
Plain Jane gets not only the hot guy but two of them: The hot Irish exchange student, who can sing and shit and the blond-blue-eyed Italian Giovanni who is just like her sparkling and shit. What is with all the guys panting after her? It's implied several times that our MC is plain, socially inapt but of course the two hottest guys on earth insta-sea how super-special she is. PHHHLEEEASEEE spare me. Of course the main “character” in this Twilight fanfic is not only super special but also super dumb. When someone tells you to not tell other people about your super-specialness because it’s dangerous (implying that all others like you are dead) what would you do?
A: Try to not tell anyone?
B: write ”I am sparkling silver what does it mean” on a public internet forum and for good measure tell people at school.
What really unnerved me though is the following: It is not ok to make a creep into the love interest. Creepy is creepy. Basta. I mean come on, the MC fucking fears Finn, he irritates her, she’s afraid of him, but that is all cast aside, dismissed as soon as she remembers how beautiful he is? How can it actually be ok to advice teenage girls to not listen to their own instincts? I loathe it when authors are implying that girls shouldn’t think about their own fears because Prince Charming is just that beautiful and charismatic. No man/boy should be above a girl’s right to decline. But this book tells girls that voicing their discomfort is of no importance, that it’s better to feel awkward and submissive then to voice your fear. She knows the guy only by sight but he’s popping up in her hospital room at night, creeps up on her in a room at school and surprisingly comes to her rescue out of the blue. And now he wants to tag along? Creepy much? But hey it’s ok because he is Irish and has those good looks????
Because Finn is the hot exchange student from Ireland not even Cora’s cousin and best friend Mari intervenes after she faints and Finn declares that he will take her home.
Are you fucking kidding me? A girl that has had a near death experience the week before and was in the hospital for days faints and you just let her go with an almost stranger because he is so hot? Don’t call an ambulance, don’t call her father, don’t be afraid for her, because she will be okay with a foreign stranger. Makes perfect sense. In real life a girl might as easily end up murdered in some dark alley with her body parts tossed into some trash can! But no it’s love, I am sorry I ranted.
Back in Edward and Bella fanfic-territory: She is just that special. Her love changed him. Now he has to leave her. You might think that finally she might voice her feelings. Oh but you are so wrong:
Awful!
Those eyes connected with mine, and every atom in the room crackled with delight.
Plain Jane gets not only the hot guy but two of them: The hot Irish exchange student, who can sing and shit and the blond-blue-eyed Italian Giovanni who is just like her sparkling and shit. What is with all the guys panting after her? It's implied several times that our MC is plain, socially inapt but of course the two hottest guys on earth insta-sea how super-special she is. PHHHLEEEASEEE spare me. Of course the main “character” in this Twilight fanfic is not only super special but also super dumb. When someone tells you to not tell other people about your super-specialness because it’s dangerous (implying that all others like you are dead) what would you do?
A: Try to not tell anyone?
B: write ”I am sparkling silver what does it mean” on a public internet forum and for good measure tell people at school.
What really unnerved me though is the following: It is not ok to make a creep into the love interest. Creepy is creepy. Basta. I mean come on, the MC fucking fears Finn, he irritates her, she’s afraid of him, but that is all cast aside, dismissed as soon as she remembers how beautiful he is? How can it actually be ok to advice teenage girls to not listen to their own instincts? I loathe it when authors are implying that girls shouldn’t think about their own fears because Prince Charming is just that beautiful and charismatic. No man/boy should be above a girl’s right to decline. But this book tells girls that voicing their discomfort is of no importance, that it’s better to feel awkward and submissive then to voice your fear. She knows the guy only by sight but he’s popping up in her hospital room at night, creeps up on her in a room at school and surprisingly comes to her rescue out of the blue. And now he wants to tag along? Creepy much? But hey it’s ok because he is Irish and has those good looks????
Do you mind if I tag along? I’d like to see what you do.”
“No, you wouldn’t,” I said with a dismissive wave.
“Yes,” he said, opening his car door. “I would.”
I got out and crossed my arms. “Why? What is up with you?”
“What kind of foreign policy is it not to show a visitor your customs and culture?” Finn laughed, which sparked some irritation in me. I wanted to walk away, but his gravity pulled me out of my own tight orbit.
He raked his hands through his wild hair, the kind of hair that wanted to be messed. Why was I suddenly imagining leaving rows in it with my fingers?
Because Finn is the hot exchange student from Ireland not even Cora’s cousin and best friend Mari intervenes after she faints and Finn declares that he will take her home.
“Ready to go?” “I’ll take her home,” Finn said. “She’ll be okay with me.”
Mari’s eyes glinted. “I’m sure she’s in good hands.”
Are you fucking kidding me? A girl that has had a near death experience the week before and was in the hospital for days faints and you just let her go with an almost stranger because he is so hot? Don’t call an ambulance, don’t call her father, don’t be afraid for her, because she will be okay with a foreign stranger. Makes perfect sense. In real life a girl might as easily end up murdered in some dark alley with her body parts tossed into some trash can! But no it’s love, I am sorry I ranted.
“You know I am. Mad in love! It’s fookin’ insane. I talked to my mother last night after what happened at your house. She’s angry at me for becoming so involved and for sneaking into your room and jeopardizing you. I know—I’m not good for you. I have to go home, Cora. My flight for Ireland leaves tonight.”
Back in Edward and Bella fanfic-territory: She is just that special. Her love changed him. Now he has to leave her. You might think that finally she might voice her feelings. Oh but you are so wrong:
Worry radiated from my center, up to my chest, closing off my throat. I swallowed hard. Had I done something to him? I was simply trying to give him love last night, from my soul to his, but maybe because I was this silver aberration I had inadvertently affected him badly.
(…)
Then, the truth I couldn’t hold back any longer. “I love you.”
“I’m not the same person since I met you. You’ve affected me forever.”(Finn)
Awful!
January 15, 2014
Every once in a while you come across an outstanding new book, one that Wows you from the start. Scintillate is just such a story. To make it even better its part of a trilogy, with Tracy Clark's writing you know you are going to get two more fabulous installments in this series.
Why did I love Scintillate so much? Besides the marvelous characters that came to life and jumped right off the pages... The story is a completely original premise, but not slowed down by world building. Yes, there is world building and background but its presented in such a way that you learn right along side Cora, the main character.
Clark brilliantly hits all the emotional triggers, bringing laughter, fun, heart ache, family issues, chemistry, love, and betrayal to this riveting plot.
Scintillate is full of unexpected plot twists and turns, a refreshing, magnificent read. I highly recommend you add this story to your must read list. Tracy Clark, you have a new fan.
I received this ARC copy of Scintillate from Entangled Publishing, LLC - Entangled: Teen in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication February 4, 2014.
Written by: Tracy Clark
Series: The Light Key Trilogy
Sequence in Series: 1
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Entangled: Teen
Publication Date: February 4, 2014
ISBN-10: 1622661451
ISBN-13: 978-1622661459
Rating: 5 Stars FAVORITE
Genre: Science Fiction, Young Adult, Romance, Fantasy
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Why did I love Scintillate so much? Besides the marvelous characters that came to life and jumped right off the pages... The story is a completely original premise, but not slowed down by world building. Yes, there is world building and background but its presented in such a way that you learn right along side Cora, the main character.
Clark brilliantly hits all the emotional triggers, bringing laughter, fun, heart ache, family issues, chemistry, love, and betrayal to this riveting plot.
Scintillate is full of unexpected plot twists and turns, a refreshing, magnificent read. I highly recommend you add this story to your must read list. Tracy Clark, you have a new fan.
I received this ARC copy of Scintillate from Entangled Publishing, LLC - Entangled: Teen in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication February 4, 2014.
Written by: Tracy Clark
Series: The Light Key Trilogy
Sequence in Series: 1
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Entangled: Teen
Publication Date: February 4, 2014
ISBN-10: 1622661451
ISBN-13: 978-1622661459
Rating: 5 Stars FAVORITE
Genre: Science Fiction, Young Adult, Romance, Fantasy
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
February 5, 2014
3.5 Stars
While this story is guilty of a few of the most popular YA tropes it was still a fun one. There is the insta love between two characters and an attraction that they couldn’t explain, although I loved the explanation of this later in the book, so I’m going to forgive this. There was also heroine who discovers she has a gift of sorts, the possibility for a love triangle in future books, a quirky friend (actually two) and a near perfect guy that is there to come to the rescue anytime you have a freak out.
That said there were a lot of things I really enjoyed about Scintillate the first being that it moves very quickly. The chapters are short and fast paced. There isn’t a lot of time spent with anything that isn’t specifically driving the story forward. There are also a lot of great one liners throughout that were intelligent and fun like --
Dad didn’t answer her. He did that – left questions lying on the ground like dirty socks.
There is an introduction to the world that they are in some nice descriptions of a few of the locations in Ireland and the redwoods Cora liked to visit. I really wanted a little more description to some of the things in Ireland but I’m hoping that will come into play more in the future books. Also, I’m a sucker for forbidden romance so this is right up my alley. The author grabbed my attention right away and I liked the role she let the parents play in the story, not perfect but not absentee either.
Cora has been protected by her father for most of her life. After her mother left when she was five in Ireland her dad put her in a protective bubble and never let her out. She hasn’t exactly tried to break out of that bubble until now. After being deathly ill she starts to see colors around everyone, even herself, but the aura surrounding her looks different than everyone else. Cora knows her dad is keeping secrets from her about who she is and why her mother disappeared and now she is ready to start looking for some answers. But the people who hold the truth don’t want to tell her anything.
“Maybe it’s better for the heavy secrets to ride on the shoulders of those who are strong enough to carry them.”
Cora is ready to break out of that cage her father has built around her whether he wants her to or not. But the true catalyst for change is Finn. A boy from Ireland, Cora’s birthplace is inexplicitly drawn to her. It’s odd but once they meet Cora feels something is pulling them together and she can’t explain it, she can’t explain how he affects her.
“Aaaah. Love and Lightning.” Mari said with dramatic pause. She tucked he straight hair behind her ear and winked at me. “They both can strike sudden and hot.”
Finn also taken aback by how fast things are moving between them leaves to go back to Ireland with little explanation. Cora might be a little heartbroken but she also has bigger mysteries to solve than just her heart. She needs to know why she shines differently than all those around her. She wants to find what her mother was looking for in Ireland that might have got her killed and why it seems she has been hidden from the world for so long. Cora needs to do it quickly because there is someone following her and some of the people around her are dying of unusual causes.
In Ireland she finds someone just like her and also that boy that left her behind. Now with the help of Giovanni a and Finn she might find out just what her mother was after but it will lead to places she never meant to go and betrayal she never saw coming. Cora will make discoveries about herself but the costs will be higher than she was willing to pay.
“Choices, luv. We either regret the experiences we have, or the ones we were too scared to have.”
I’ll be interested to see where the story goes in the next book and I pretty sure there are a few characters that we haven’t seen the last of. At least I hope.
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing , LLC via Netgalley for an unbiased review. Quotes may differ from final version.
While this story is guilty of a few of the most popular YA tropes it was still a fun one. There is the insta love between two characters and an attraction that they couldn’t explain, although I loved the explanation of this later in the book, so I’m going to forgive this. There was also heroine who discovers she has a gift of sorts, the possibility for a love triangle in future books, a quirky friend (actually two) and a near perfect guy that is there to come to the rescue anytime you have a freak out.
That said there were a lot of things I really enjoyed about Scintillate the first being that it moves very quickly. The chapters are short and fast paced. There isn’t a lot of time spent with anything that isn’t specifically driving the story forward. There are also a lot of great one liners throughout that were intelligent and fun like --
Dad didn’t answer her. He did that – left questions lying on the ground like dirty socks.
There is an introduction to the world that they are in some nice descriptions of a few of the locations in Ireland and the redwoods Cora liked to visit. I really wanted a little more description to some of the things in Ireland but I’m hoping that will come into play more in the future books. Also, I’m a sucker for forbidden romance so this is right up my alley. The author grabbed my attention right away and I liked the role she let the parents play in the story, not perfect but not absentee either.
Cora has been protected by her father for most of her life. After her mother left when she was five in Ireland her dad put her in a protective bubble and never let her out. She hasn’t exactly tried to break out of that bubble until now. After being deathly ill she starts to see colors around everyone, even herself, but the aura surrounding her looks different than everyone else. Cora knows her dad is keeping secrets from her about who she is and why her mother disappeared and now she is ready to start looking for some answers. But the people who hold the truth don’t want to tell her anything.
“Maybe it’s better for the heavy secrets to ride on the shoulders of those who are strong enough to carry them.”
Cora is ready to break out of that cage her father has built around her whether he wants her to or not. But the true catalyst for change is Finn. A boy from Ireland, Cora’s birthplace is inexplicitly drawn to her. It’s odd but once they meet Cora feels something is pulling them together and she can’t explain it, she can’t explain how he affects her.
“Aaaah. Love and Lightning.” Mari said with dramatic pause. She tucked he straight hair behind her ear and winked at me. “They both can strike sudden and hot.”
Finn also taken aback by how fast things are moving between them leaves to go back to Ireland with little explanation. Cora might be a little heartbroken but she also has bigger mysteries to solve than just her heart. She needs to know why she shines differently than all those around her. She wants to find what her mother was looking for in Ireland that might have got her killed and why it seems she has been hidden from the world for so long. Cora needs to do it quickly because there is someone following her and some of the people around her are dying of unusual causes.
In Ireland she finds someone just like her and also that boy that left her behind. Now with the help of Giovanni a and Finn she might find out just what her mother was after but it will lead to places she never meant to go and betrayal she never saw coming. Cora will make discoveries about herself but the costs will be higher than she was willing to pay.
“Choices, luv. We either regret the experiences we have, or the ones we were too scared to have.”
I’ll be interested to see where the story goes in the next book and I pretty sure there are a few characters that we haven’t seen the last of. At least I hope.
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing , LLC via Netgalley for an unbiased review. Quotes may differ from final version.
January 23, 2014
Scintillate came as a real surprise for me. I didn't expect anything of it. I thought the premise sounded interesting and just decided to give it a try. But wow, though I had a few issues with the novel, it was actually very good and I'm very much looking forward to reading the sequel... hopefully soon!
The concept of seeing auras was brilliant and the world-building very round and fulfilling in my eyes. There was no infodumping at all, it all flows very smoothly along with the plot. Here we meet young Cora who has lived a pretty uneventful life until she ends up in hospital with a mysterious illness and suddenly sees a bright light around people. They each glow with different colors according to their moods, personalities, secrets they keep, love they share and so on. First, Cora's afraid something might be wrong with her. She shares her fear and her confusing new ability with her father, who is the ever-present, overprotective constant in her life. But he only comes up with lame excuses and doesn't take her seriously. It takes a while until Cora figures out what's really "wrong" with her vision.
While Cora discovers that there is a whole new world waiting for her to be discovered, she also meets Finn. As you can read in the blurb, it's a severe case of insta-attraction, if not even insta-love (at least from Finn's side). BUT this is perfectly well explained by the end of the novel. I found it a little bit disturbing most of the time which is also my only issue with the book. Finn was a little bit creepy. It's absolutely comprehendible that Cora falls for him as she's so inexperienced when it comes to guys. But hey, wait until you've met his mother. Then you know where all the creepiness comes from. I'd sort of hoped that she wouldn't see him ever again but I already knew when she went to Ireland that all hope would be in vain.
I thought Giovanni was much more swoon worthy even though he seems to carry a few secrets of his own (just like everybody else). With the appearance of Giovanni, who becomes a very important person for Cora and her personal quest in Ireland, the story speeds up again. There wasn't a boring moment in this book, it's full of twists and turns and keeps you on the edge wanting to find out what happens next.
I would love to read more about Dun and Mari in the next book, Cora's best friends and characters who seem to have much more to offer than their role in Scintillate. Also Cora's grandma Tulki seems to be quite an interesting character and I'm sure she'll be thoroughly introduced in the sequel.
I have to add that I really liked Clark's writing, it was simply and easy to read but still beautiful:
I can only recommend this book to all YA lovers as it is already one of my biggest book surprises of 2014. It questions the definition of humanity and tells the story of a girl who needs to cope with her role in the greater scheme of the world learning how to make her own decisions. I hope Scintillate and Tracy Clark will get a lot of attention because this book definitely deserves it. So, there remains only one more question: when will the sequel be released?!
The concept of seeing auras was brilliant and the world-building very round and fulfilling in my eyes. There was no infodumping at all, it all flows very smoothly along with the plot. Here we meet young Cora who has lived a pretty uneventful life until she ends up in hospital with a mysterious illness and suddenly sees a bright light around people. They each glow with different colors according to their moods, personalities, secrets they keep, love they share and so on. First, Cora's afraid something might be wrong with her. She shares her fear and her confusing new ability with her father, who is the ever-present, overprotective constant in her life. But he only comes up with lame excuses and doesn't take her seriously. It takes a while until Cora figures out what's really "wrong" with her vision.
While Cora discovers that there is a whole new world waiting for her to be discovered, she also meets Finn. As you can read in the blurb, it's a severe case of insta-attraction, if not even insta-love (at least from Finn's side). BUT this is perfectly well explained by the end of the novel. I found it a little bit disturbing most of the time which is also my only issue with the book. Finn was a little bit creepy. It's absolutely comprehendible that Cora falls for him as she's so inexperienced when it comes to guys. But hey, wait until you've met his mother. Then you know where all the creepiness comes from. I'd sort of hoped that she wouldn't see him ever again but I already knew when she went to Ireland that all hope would be in vain.
I thought Giovanni was much more swoon worthy even though he seems to carry a few secrets of his own (just like everybody else). With the appearance of Giovanni, who becomes a very important person for Cora and her personal quest in Ireland, the story speeds up again. There wasn't a boring moment in this book, it's full of twists and turns and keeps you on the edge wanting to find out what happens next.
I would love to read more about Dun and Mari in the next book, Cora's best friends and characters who seem to have much more to offer than their role in Scintillate. Also Cora's grandma Tulki seems to be quite an interesting character and I'm sure she'll be thoroughly introduced in the sequel.
I have to add that I really liked Clark's writing, it was simply and easy to read but still beautiful:
His certainty irritated me. "How do you know? Do you know where she is?"
The words dropped from my lips like petals.
Fragile. Easily crushed. I held my breath.
I can only recommend this book to all YA lovers as it is already one of my biggest book surprises of 2014. It questions the definition of humanity and tells the story of a girl who needs to cope with her role in the greater scheme of the world learning how to make her own decisions. I hope Scintillate and Tracy Clark will get a lot of attention because this book definitely deserves it. So, there remains only one more question: when will the sequel be released?!
February 12, 2014
I received a digital arc of this book from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Alrighty.
I want to mention upfront that Scintillate is getting 4 stars from me solely for the mystery of what's going on with Cora and her new ability to see auras.
The romance in this one is probably going to turn quite a few readers off to the book.
Cora and Finn have an overly dramatic insta-love thing going on, and it bugged me. Also, Finn sounded less like an Irish teenager, and more like an older dude from one of those Highland Romance novels.
Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe the teenage boys in Ireland all talk like old men, but I don't think so.
However, the aura thing was pretty cool.
Cora gets sick, runs a super high fever, and ends up in the hospital. When she wakes up, she finds that she can see colors around everyone, including herself. At first, she thinks that she has brain damage or something, but after a little research, realizes that she's seeing people's emotions and energy.
Her father seems to refuse to believe her, but Cora can tell that something is off about his reactions to her questioning. After some poking around, she discovers that her mother's disappearance years ago may have had something to do with the same thing Cora is experiencing now.
The whole 'changing the way we see humanity' mystery, kept me totally glued to the pages. And even when she gets some answers at the end, you can tell that it's only the tip of the iceberg.
I'm hoping that the next book will tone down the star-crossed lovers theme, and focus on the mystery. If it does, I think this will be quite an interesting trilogy to follow.
If not?
Well, I have a limit to the amount of goofy teen-drama I can swallow. Untangle your lips and back away, cause there's more important things in life. Really.
Like finding out who's trying to kill you for instance...
Alrighty.
I want to mention upfront that Scintillate is getting 4 stars from me solely for the mystery of what's going on with Cora and her new ability to see auras.
The romance in this one is probably going to turn quite a few readers off to the book.
Cora and Finn have an overly dramatic insta-love thing going on, and it bugged me. Also, Finn sounded less like an Irish teenager, and more like an older dude from one of those Highland Romance novels.
Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe the teenage boys in Ireland all talk like old men, but I don't think so.
However, the aura thing was pretty cool.
Cora gets sick, runs a super high fever, and ends up in the hospital. When she wakes up, she finds that she can see colors around everyone, including herself. At first, she thinks that she has brain damage or something, but after a little research, realizes that she's seeing people's emotions and energy.
Her father seems to refuse to believe her, but Cora can tell that something is off about his reactions to her questioning. After some poking around, she discovers that her mother's disappearance years ago may have had something to do with the same thing Cora is experiencing now.
The whole 'changing the way we see humanity' mystery, kept me totally glued to the pages. And even when she gets some answers at the end, you can tell that it's only the tip of the iceberg.
I'm hoping that the next book will tone down the star-crossed lovers theme, and focus on the mystery. If it does, I think this will be quite an interesting trilogy to follow.
If not?
Well, I have a limit to the amount of goofy teen-drama I can swallow. Untangle your lips and back away, cause there's more important things in life. Really.
Like finding out who's trying to kill you for instance...
Want to read
September 22, 2013I've had the privilege of advance reading this selection and readers, you are in for a treat. Steamy romance, a unique premise, and a charming heroine makes for an intriguing read. :)
January 24, 2014
Cora Sandoval's mother has been missing for 12 years, she vanished without a trace when Cora was 5 and they where living in Ireland. Since then Cora and her father moved to the US and her father's become overbearingly overprotective, and Cora's beginning to want to rebel. After a serious illness, Cora miraculously survives, but weird things start to happen. Cora can now see strange coloured lights surrounding people, and a strange silver light surrounding her.
Cora fast realizes that she is seeing people's aura's but she can't work out why hers is silver and never changes colours. Upon finding some secret documents of her father's, it becomes apparent Cora's mother didn't abandon her like she's thought all these years, she was working on something very dangerous, and knew there was a chance she might vanish. Cora fast begins to realize she might be in danger, and her father has known all along.
Amongst these discoveries Cora finds herself drawn to the Irish exchange student at the school, Finn. He makes her feel safe, and their attraction to each other is instant, inescapable and powerful. However, Cora's father disapproves, mostly because he's Irish, from the land that Cora has ties to and where her mother was caught up in something dangerous. Once Finn's mother learns he's fallen in love, she immediately orders him to come back to Ireland, never to see Cora again. After a monumental fight with her father about what really happened to her mother and the aura's she see's, not to mention her lack of freedom, Cora hops on a plane to Ireland, with the hope of seeing Finn, but mostly to look for her missing mother, and other's like her.
Once in Ireland, Cora meets Giovanni, another person like her, a silver aura'd person. He tells her that they are what's known as Scintilla, and the man Cora has seen with the white aura, killing people by sucking their arua's out, is what's known as an Arrazi. Scintilla are potent to them, the best food to feed their survival, and they will kill the both of them. Cora and G decide to work together to figure out who exactly they are and what is going on, and when they find Cora's mother's journal in a library, the danger to them becomes clear, as well as things they never knew about themselves.
They learn that the bad guys have a plan for them, a plan that will change the world and end their lives. When she finds Finn, something's not quite right with him, or his parents. After a devastating accident, Cora is kidnapped by someone close to her and Finn, someone she trusted, and she finally finds her mother....but at what cost? What do they want with her? And what does her father mean about dark energy?
Scintillate is the first book I've read and reviewed in a while that has actually wowed me and made me excited in a long time. I went in with trepidation about being let down as I have so many times recently, only to have my expectations surpassed.
The world created is truly astounding in scale, and I really got a feel for Ireland and a clear picture in my mind from Clark's prose. I was encased in to the world, and didn't want to leave. The characters themselves where so well written, with depth and many sides to them, the inner strength in Cora was inspirational, and all of the characters jumped off the page. Clark is the first author to be able to use UK/Irish slang words and swear words, and not throw them in everytime the character speaks. I really grew to love the characters purely from how well they where written, and how relateable and humanised they where.
The world building is concise but powerful, and the background is presented in an interesting and engaging way, and we learn everything as Cora does. The pace of the book is fast, and flows smoothly from location to location, and plot point to plot point. The mythology that is the main point of Scintillate is unique, and unlike anything else in the YA genre, and truly drew me and intrigued me, I wanted to know everything about it, and we learned the mythology at the same time Cora does, as she goes along, we learnt more and you have all the same questions as Cora does. This prevented the book from having pages laying out the mythology hurriedly or in excruciating detail. We learned everything quickly, concisely and it didn't upset the flow or bore you to death.
Scintillate is however, truly heart breaking in places. You never see any of the plot twists coming, you never know what's going to happen next, and everything is a shock. The ground has been laid for what looks to be the continuation of a rich mythology and plot, as well as what could be an intriguing and complex plot. Scintillate has a story all of it's own, with a point to make, as well as setting up the next book, but setting up the next book is merely an undercurrent and not the main focus of the book as it is with so many first books.
Scintillate is the book that has given me hope for the YA Supernatural genre, when I was despairing of everything being the same. Scintillate is a refreshing, and unique read, truly unique to the genre, with complex and intriguing mythology woven in to a complex mystery of a plot. Scintillate will make you laugh, make you cry, make you go aaww and make you mad, the hallmarks of a truly brilliant author are all present when you find yourself so invested in the characters of the book and unable to put it down, as I was. I didn't want it to end, I wanted to know everything, and I've found myself gutted by the wait until the next book.
And that's the good news folks...this is the first in a trilogy, so get ready, because Scintillate is the first installment of a trilogy which promises to be a roller coaster ride of emotion, full of intrigue, and potentially one of the best trilogies of the year! You don't want to miss out. I'm off to mourn the wait for the next book, and try to find a book to match up to this...I think that will be impossible.
Cora fast realizes that she is seeing people's aura's but she can't work out why hers is silver and never changes colours. Upon finding some secret documents of her father's, it becomes apparent Cora's mother didn't abandon her like she's thought all these years, she was working on something very dangerous, and knew there was a chance she might vanish. Cora fast begins to realize she might be in danger, and her father has known all along.
Amongst these discoveries Cora finds herself drawn to the Irish exchange student at the school, Finn. He makes her feel safe, and their attraction to each other is instant, inescapable and powerful. However, Cora's father disapproves, mostly because he's Irish, from the land that Cora has ties to and where her mother was caught up in something dangerous. Once Finn's mother learns he's fallen in love, she immediately orders him to come back to Ireland, never to see Cora again. After a monumental fight with her father about what really happened to her mother and the aura's she see's, not to mention her lack of freedom, Cora hops on a plane to Ireland, with the hope of seeing Finn, but mostly to look for her missing mother, and other's like her.
Once in Ireland, Cora meets Giovanni, another person like her, a silver aura'd person. He tells her that they are what's known as Scintilla, and the man Cora has seen with the white aura, killing people by sucking their arua's out, is what's known as an Arrazi. Scintilla are potent to them, the best food to feed their survival, and they will kill the both of them. Cora and G decide to work together to figure out who exactly they are and what is going on, and when they find Cora's mother's journal in a library, the danger to them becomes clear, as well as things they never knew about themselves.
They learn that the bad guys have a plan for them, a plan that will change the world and end their lives. When she finds Finn, something's not quite right with him, or his parents. After a devastating accident, Cora is kidnapped by someone close to her and Finn, someone she trusted, and she finally finds her mother....but at what cost? What do they want with her? And what does her father mean about dark energy?
Scintillate is the first book I've read and reviewed in a while that has actually wowed me and made me excited in a long time. I went in with trepidation about being let down as I have so many times recently, only to have my expectations surpassed.
The world created is truly astounding in scale, and I really got a feel for Ireland and a clear picture in my mind from Clark's prose. I was encased in to the world, and didn't want to leave. The characters themselves where so well written, with depth and many sides to them, the inner strength in Cora was inspirational, and all of the characters jumped off the page. Clark is the first author to be able to use UK/Irish slang words and swear words, and not throw them in everytime the character speaks. I really grew to love the characters purely from how well they where written, and how relateable and humanised they where.
The world building is concise but powerful, and the background is presented in an interesting and engaging way, and we learn everything as Cora does. The pace of the book is fast, and flows smoothly from location to location, and plot point to plot point. The mythology that is the main point of Scintillate is unique, and unlike anything else in the YA genre, and truly drew me and intrigued me, I wanted to know everything about it, and we learned the mythology at the same time Cora does, as she goes along, we learnt more and you have all the same questions as Cora does. This prevented the book from having pages laying out the mythology hurriedly or in excruciating detail. We learned everything quickly, concisely and it didn't upset the flow or bore you to death.
Scintillate is however, truly heart breaking in places. You never see any of the plot twists coming, you never know what's going to happen next, and everything is a shock. The ground has been laid for what looks to be the continuation of a rich mythology and plot, as well as what could be an intriguing and complex plot. Scintillate has a story all of it's own, with a point to make, as well as setting up the next book, but setting up the next book is merely an undercurrent and not the main focus of the book as it is with so many first books.
Scintillate is the book that has given me hope for the YA Supernatural genre, when I was despairing of everything being the same. Scintillate is a refreshing, and unique read, truly unique to the genre, with complex and intriguing mythology woven in to a complex mystery of a plot. Scintillate will make you laugh, make you cry, make you go aaww and make you mad, the hallmarks of a truly brilliant author are all present when you find yourself so invested in the characters of the book and unable to put it down, as I was. I didn't want it to end, I wanted to know everything, and I've found myself gutted by the wait until the next book.
And that's the good news folks...this is the first in a trilogy, so get ready, because Scintillate is the first installment of a trilogy which promises to be a roller coaster ride of emotion, full of intrigue, and potentially one of the best trilogies of the year! You don't want to miss out. I'm off to mourn the wait for the next book, and try to find a book to match up to this...I think that will be impossible.
February 4, 2014
Scintillate
Waking up in a hospital bed after being so sick with fever it was unsure she'd recover, Cora Sandoval is understandably a little disoriented. This is only exacerbated by the fact she's suddenly seeing strange colours around everyone. Putting it down to lingering symptoms, she leaves the hospital, but the visual anomaly persists.
To add to this worrying development, she suddenly finds herself the centre of hot Irish exchange student, Finn's, attention. It's quite overwhelming, but not at all unwelcome. After all, he's gorgeous, his Irish brogue is so adorable it should be illegal, and he makes her feel things she's never felt before. He also reminds her of her mother's side of the family, since she was also Irish.
Speaking of which, she hasn't seen her mother for 12 years. She disappeared, and the one person who knows why - her father - won't spill the beans. Naturally this causes some resentment between them, and when Finn's exchange period is over, it's not long before she finds herself on a plane to Ireland as well.
From here the book really takes off. There's revelation after revelation, as well as a few shocks and, sadly, a betrayal or two within the pages of SCINTILLATE. And of course, romance! I loved all of the developments and the magic and worldbuilding they were built upon. I also liked the addition of new character, Giovani, at this stage, who has a strong connection to Cora. This brought some interesting conflict for her in the romance department.
Overall I found SCINTILLATE to be a well-paced, interesting read which built to a thrilling and unexpected conclusion. It had a great story line, a sweet romance, interesting magic, and left me wanting to know what will happen next for these characters.
4 Stars! ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Waking up in a hospital bed after being so sick with fever it was unsure she'd recover, Cora Sandoval is understandably a little disoriented. This is only exacerbated by the fact she's suddenly seeing strange colours around everyone. Putting it down to lingering symptoms, she leaves the hospital, but the visual anomaly persists.
To add to this worrying development, she suddenly finds herself the centre of hot Irish exchange student, Finn's, attention. It's quite overwhelming, but not at all unwelcome. After all, he's gorgeous, his Irish brogue is so adorable it should be illegal, and he makes her feel things she's never felt before. He also reminds her of her mother's side of the family, since she was also Irish.
Speaking of which, she hasn't seen her mother for 12 years. She disappeared, and the one person who knows why - her father - won't spill the beans. Naturally this causes some resentment between them, and when Finn's exchange period is over, it's not long before she finds herself on a plane to Ireland as well.
From here the book really takes off. There's revelation after revelation, as well as a few shocks and, sadly, a betrayal or two within the pages of SCINTILLATE. And of course, romance! I loved all of the developments and the magic and worldbuilding they were built upon. I also liked the addition of new character, Giovani, at this stage, who has a strong connection to Cora. This brought some interesting conflict for her in the romance department.
Overall I found SCINTILLATE to be a well-paced, interesting read which built to a thrilling and unexpected conclusion. It had a great story line, a sweet romance, interesting magic, and left me wanting to know what will happen next for these characters.
4 Stars! ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2014
A thrilling YA romance that kept me on the edge of my seat, Scintillate was a wonderful read. I absolutely loved this book! It had sweet romance, dark secrets, and an ending that left me wanting more.
Cora was a wonderful heroine. She wasn't a confrontation kind of person, but neither would she let herself be a doormat. And, if she set her mind to something, nothing would stop her. I really liked her. I thought she was strong, likable, and a lovely character.
Finn was complicated. For most of the book, he was super sweet and clever and devoted to Cora. But, then we find out something that changes everything. Yet, Finn still proved himself to be a truly good guy and a total sweetheart. I absolutely adored him.
The romance was lovely. Cora and Finn were very sweet together. A revelation near the end of the book complicated matters for them, but I'm still hoping they find a way to be together.
Giovanni was an important character in the book, so I just want to mention him. He was clever, strong, sweet, and I really liked him. There's a potential for another love interest in him, but we'll see what happens.
The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. There were tons of thrills, secrets, and surprises that kept me on the edge of my seat. I really enjoyed the story and the ending has me anxious to find out what happens next. I'm dying to get my hands on book 2. Can't wait!
Scintillate was a fantastic YA paranormal romance. I absolutely loved this book. From the romance, to the secrets, to the thrills, this book was wonderful. YA romance lovers, this is a book not to be missed.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Cora was a wonderful heroine. She wasn't a confrontation kind of person, but neither would she let herself be a doormat. And, if she set her mind to something, nothing would stop her. I really liked her. I thought she was strong, likable, and a lovely character.
Finn was complicated. For most of the book, he was super sweet and clever and devoted to Cora. But, then we find out something that changes everything. Yet, Finn still proved himself to be a truly good guy and a total sweetheart. I absolutely adored him.
The romance was lovely. Cora and Finn were very sweet together. A revelation near the end of the book complicated matters for them, but I'm still hoping they find a way to be together.
Giovanni was an important character in the book, so I just want to mention him. He was clever, strong, sweet, and I really liked him. There's a potential for another love interest in him, but we'll see what happens.
The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. There were tons of thrills, secrets, and surprises that kept me on the edge of my seat. I really enjoyed the story and the ending has me anxious to find out what happens next. I'm dying to get my hands on book 2. Can't wait!
Scintillate was a fantastic YA paranormal romance. I absolutely loved this book. From the romance, to the secrets, to the thrills, this book was wonderful. YA romance lovers, this is a book not to be missed.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 30, 2015
Sometimes the girl can be so... Unwise that it drives me nuts. But the story line is really really cool and unique. I loved reading and trying to put the pieces together. I'm on team Giovanni but for some reason it feels like it's not working out that way... Hopefully she will realize. Or maybe my mind will change, who knows.
February 11, 2014
4.5 out of 5 stars
This book went above and beyond what I was expecting when I first started reading. I've read several good books this year, but there have only been a few that fall into the "I don't even want to stop reading to eat" category. Scintillate by Tracy Clark was one of them.
I've been thinking about my review for a few days now because I like to at least seem like I know what I'm talking about when I put my thoughts out there...but I still come back to where my thoughts went immediately after reading the last sentence, which is that I really really enjoyed reading this story.
And after all, that is why I read.
I found Cora to be a believable 17 year old...I remember how it feels to be like I was living life on a leash, convinced that my parents were on a mission to squash all my dreams like a bug. I also remember what it was like to lose all rational thought when talking to a cute boy -- the ones I could gather up enough courage to talk to, anyway.
And there weren't any cute boys with Irish accents and tattoos when I was in high school. Trust me, I would have remembered.
What I can't imagine though, is what life would be life if my mom had not been in my life, or what it would be life to be able to see auras and to have all these questions and not get any answers.
Why is she seeing auras? Is there a man really following her and what does he want? Why are people dying? What does her father know?
That is what Cora deals with. She KNOWS there is more to her life than what she is being told and is unbelievably frustrated when roadblocks are constantly put in her path. Still, she is determined to find out the answers, no matter what she has to do to get them.
I have to admit, when I first read in the synopsis that she takes off for Ireland on her own, I seemed a bit far fetched but once I started reading, I didn't even think twice about it. I got so caught up in the story that I was able to take off my common-sense hat and see where the adventure was going.
I am so glad I did.
Once Cora gets to Ireland, Ms. Clark's story really takes off. Adventure, history, romance, deception, fate, hope...all the feels are there. I found myself thinking I wanted one thing to happen and then maybe I didn't...but then maybe I did, but only if other things happened. And even then, when the book reached the end, I found myself pleasantly surprised with the way there was enough open ending to make me want the next book as soon as possible, but I didn't keep trying to find the pages that just had to be missing from my Kindle because I can't believe it ended there.
All in all, I am really glad that I had the chance to be a part of the book tour for Scintillate and I look forward to seeing where the adventure takes us.
This book went above and beyond what I was expecting when I first started reading. I've read several good books this year, but there have only been a few that fall into the "I don't even want to stop reading to eat" category. Scintillate by Tracy Clark was one of them.
I've been thinking about my review for a few days now because I like to at least seem like I know what I'm talking about when I put my thoughts out there...but I still come back to where my thoughts went immediately after reading the last sentence, which is that I really really enjoyed reading this story.
And after all, that is why I read.
I found Cora to be a believable 17 year old...I remember how it feels to be like I was living life on a leash, convinced that my parents were on a mission to squash all my dreams like a bug. I also remember what it was like to lose all rational thought when talking to a cute boy -- the ones I could gather up enough courage to talk to, anyway.
And there weren't any cute boys with Irish accents and tattoos when I was in high school. Trust me, I would have remembered.
What I can't imagine though, is what life would be life if my mom had not been in my life, or what it would be life to be able to see auras and to have all these questions and not get any answers.
Why is she seeing auras? Is there a man really following her and what does he want? Why are people dying? What does her father know?
That is what Cora deals with. She KNOWS there is more to her life than what she is being told and is unbelievably frustrated when roadblocks are constantly put in her path. Still, she is determined to find out the answers, no matter what she has to do to get them.
I have to admit, when I first read in the synopsis that she takes off for Ireland on her own, I seemed a bit far fetched but once I started reading, I didn't even think twice about it. I got so caught up in the story that I was able to take off my common-sense hat and see where the adventure was going.
I am so glad I did.
Once Cora gets to Ireland, Ms. Clark's story really takes off. Adventure, history, romance, deception, fate, hope...all the feels are there. I found myself thinking I wanted one thing to happen and then maybe I didn't...but then maybe I did, but only if other things happened. And even then, when the book reached the end, I found myself pleasantly surprised with the way there was enough open ending to make me want the next book as soon as possible, but I didn't keep trying to find the pages that just had to be missing from my Kindle because I can't believe it ended there.
All in all, I am really glad that I had the chance to be a part of the book tour for Scintillate and I look forward to seeing where the adventure takes us.
February 16, 2014
Here is a beautiful book about another supernatural ability, narrated with so much emotions and suspense that I can't stop it and I finished this at 1.30 AM and writing this review.
Cora is admitted to a hospital with a heavy fever and miraculously she survives. But, after that fever, she is able to see auras of other people and her aura is always silver - never changing into any other colors. When she tries to find the reason behind this 'abnormality', it seems like there is a dead end with her dad. So, she seeks herself answers and all answers point out to her missing mom. To know the details of her mother, Cora travels Ireland and unravels many mysteries one by one.
I can't help thinking if she would have just been at her home within the safety of her dad and friends (okay, she is not so safe, but this is better), she could have avoided many tragedies and heart breaks in her life. But, then again, this book would never have to be written if things were that uneventful.
This book was heck of a fast ride. Tracy Clark keeps throwing new things in every chapter and keeps you interested until the very end. And still there are a lot of things to be known when I completed this book, but, sigh, guess I have to read the next book to know about them.
Cora is a strong character; adrenaline-driven stupid teen, but she is strong in her motives. She is not brave, but she never gives up. Cora is a perfect character for this story. Cora's relationship with her dad is bad, and I felt annoyed at some points. Can't someone finally trust each other and be open for some time? I loved how Cora had put in the right words about the trust they had.
"No, Dad." I shook my head. "Not real trust. It's easy to say you trust a bird in a cage."
And Finn - that guy speaks the right things at the right time. Yes, they are too cheesy, but I can't help smiling.
"How is it possible that every kiss is the most satisfying in the world, and still it's never enough?"
This guy is swoon worthy for most parts of the novel. I hated how things ended up between them. And then there are Mari and Dun. The friendship and the budding romance between the two is so adorable. And there are so many other characters towards the end of the book. All have been portrayed well and if I start mentioning them, I am afraid the review may contain spoilers, so I stop.
Fast paced read and an entertainer. This was a page turner and the suspense was handled well keeping the readers hooked. Recommeded to paranormal lovers!
Scintillating!
Cora is admitted to a hospital with a heavy fever and miraculously she survives. But, after that fever, she is able to see auras of other people and her aura is always silver - never changing into any other colors. When she tries to find the reason behind this 'abnormality', it seems like there is a dead end with her dad. So, she seeks herself answers and all answers point out to her missing mom. To know the details of her mother, Cora travels Ireland and unravels many mysteries one by one.
I can't help thinking if she would have just been at her home within the safety of her dad and friends (okay, she is not so safe, but this is better), she could have avoided many tragedies and heart breaks in her life. But, then again, this book would never have to be written if things were that uneventful.
This book was heck of a fast ride. Tracy Clark keeps throwing new things in every chapter and keeps you interested until the very end. And still there are a lot of things to be known when I completed this book, but, sigh, guess I have to read the next book to know about them.
Cora is a strong character; adrenaline-driven stupid teen, but she is strong in her motives. She is not brave, but she never gives up. Cora is a perfect character for this story. Cora's relationship with her dad is bad, and I felt annoyed at some points. Can't someone finally trust each other and be open for some time? I loved how Cora had put in the right words about the trust they had.
"No, Dad." I shook my head. "Not real trust. It's easy to say you trust a bird in a cage."
And Finn - that guy speaks the right things at the right time. Yes, they are too cheesy, but I can't help smiling.
"How is it possible that every kiss is the most satisfying in the world, and still it's never enough?"
This guy is swoon worthy for most parts of the novel. I hated how things ended up between them. And then there are Mari and Dun. The friendship and the budding romance between the two is so adorable. And there are so many other characters towards the end of the book. All have been portrayed well and if I start mentioning them, I am afraid the review may contain spoilers, so I stop.
Fast paced read and an entertainer. This was a page turner and the suspense was handled well keeping the readers hooked. Recommeded to paranormal lovers!
Scintillating!
November 16, 2013
Just...wow.
January 13, 2015
Fascinating characters and storyline. For fans of Mara Dyer & Paranormalcy series.
September 2, 2016
Actual rating: 1.5
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This review can also be read at The Nightly Book Owl.
Every living thing has an aura. It's the energy field around us. The essence of who we are.
Scintillate is a book about a young girl named Cora who can see auras. She goes on a quest to find out the truth about her mother and the truth about what she is. She finds herself drawn to the new Irish exchange student. When he goes back to Ireland, she follows him because that's where her mother was researching. She then finds herself in grave danger from those who want to use her power.
Being from Ireland, I was beyond ecstatic when I received a copy of this book. I mean, a book having to do with my childhood land, auras and whatnot? Count me in. Unfortunately, it did not live up to my expectations. The major problem I had with this book is that, for the most part, it was entirely and disappointingly boring. I had to force myself to finish it because it was just so clichéd and banal. It fell into so many annoying young adult tropes.
1.The Mary-Sue/Special Snowflake
“You’re different from them.”
“It’s not just the color of your eyes – though, damn, that emerald green against your black hair slays me. It’s what’s in them. I feel like I know everything… and nothing, when I look your eyes.”
Cora is just so special. She really is. The readers are told she is plain, but how can we believe that when two amazingly gorgeous guys fall instantly in love with her? She has a hot Irish exchange student from Ireland and a gorgeous Italian boy pining after her. To top it off, she has an extremely rare power and is being hunted because of it.
Cora also makes stupid decisions. After being told how dangerous her gift is and not to trust anyone with the secret, she immediately tells her two friends. She researches in a PUBLIC library. She goes against all of her instincts to be with a guy she barely knows. Even her cousin is okay with letting him drive her home after having fainted. This is how horror movies happen, my friends.
2.The Love Triangle
It has the love triangle. It makes no sense to me because they instantly feel protective of her. They instantly need her. I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around how Cora is so special. I detest love triangles, but I like them when they are done well. This is not the case which brings me to my next point.
3.Instalove
I think this category is pretty self-explanatory. This may work for tweens, but authors should know better than this. Seriously. I want development. I want the feelings to sneak up on me. I don’t want love at first sight.
4.The Cheesy Dialogue
I can’t count the number of times I rolled my eyes during this book.
Little mini-hearts floated into my bloodstream. “Love?”
We did that thing again, where we looked in each other’s eyes a fraction longer than was considered comfortable in polite society.
"Since I met you, nothing else exists. No one has ever touched me the way you do. You’re like a fookin’ hypnotist."
“It’s the sun on my back after days in the rain.”
“…to the wider world you are enchanting.”
5.The Twilight Plot
There’s the immediate attraction. There’s the “I’m not good for you, so I’m going to go leave you now.” There’s the love triangle. There’s the perfect character who everyone loves. She doesn’t know how special she is though. Of course.
6.OMG- I’m what?
Yup. It’s the “I don’t know what I am. I’m going to go on a quest to find out.” I mean, there’s nothing wrong with this. It can be a great tool for a fantastic plot. I just hated the way it was done here.
Overall, this was so disappointing. I gave it two stars because the latter part of the book, towards the end, is a lot more interesting than the beginning. For this reason, I can see myself picking up the next book and giving it a chance, but I don’t see myself recommending it.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This review can also be read at The Nightly Book Owl.
Every living thing has an aura. It's the energy field around us. The essence of who we are.
Scintillate is a book about a young girl named Cora who can see auras. She goes on a quest to find out the truth about her mother and the truth about what she is. She finds herself drawn to the new Irish exchange student. When he goes back to Ireland, she follows him because that's where her mother was researching. She then finds herself in grave danger from those who want to use her power.
Being from Ireland, I was beyond ecstatic when I received a copy of this book. I mean, a book having to do with my childhood land, auras and whatnot? Count me in. Unfortunately, it did not live up to my expectations. The major problem I had with this book is that, for the most part, it was entirely and disappointingly boring. I had to force myself to finish it because it was just so clichéd and banal. It fell into so many annoying young adult tropes.
1.The Mary-Sue/Special Snowflake
“You’re different from them.”
“It’s not just the color of your eyes – though, damn, that emerald green against your black hair slays me. It’s what’s in them. I feel like I know everything… and nothing, when I look your eyes.”
Cora is just so special. She really is. The readers are told she is plain, but how can we believe that when two amazingly gorgeous guys fall instantly in love with her? She has a hot Irish exchange student from Ireland and a gorgeous Italian boy pining after her. To top it off, she has an extremely rare power and is being hunted because of it.
Cora also makes stupid decisions. After being told how dangerous her gift is and not to trust anyone with the secret, she immediately tells her two friends. She researches in a PUBLIC library. She goes against all of her instincts to be with a guy she barely knows. Even her cousin is okay with letting him drive her home after having fainted. This is how horror movies happen, my friends.
2.The Love Triangle
It has the love triangle. It makes no sense to me because they instantly feel protective of her. They instantly need her. I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around how Cora is so special. I detest love triangles, but I like them when they are done well. This is not the case which brings me to my next point.
3.Instalove
I think this category is pretty self-explanatory. This may work for tweens, but authors should know better than this. Seriously. I want development. I want the feelings to sneak up on me. I don’t want love at first sight.
4.The Cheesy Dialogue
I can’t count the number of times I rolled my eyes during this book.
Little mini-hearts floated into my bloodstream. “Love?”
We did that thing again, where we looked in each other’s eyes a fraction longer than was considered comfortable in polite society.
"Since I met you, nothing else exists. No one has ever touched me the way you do. You’re like a fookin’ hypnotist."
“It’s the sun on my back after days in the rain.”
“…to the wider world you are enchanting.”
5.The Twilight Plot
There’s the immediate attraction. There’s the “I’m not good for you, so I’m going to go leave you now.” There’s the love triangle. There’s the perfect character who everyone loves. She doesn’t know how special she is though. Of course.
6.OMG- I’m what?
Yup. It’s the “I don’t know what I am. I’m going to go on a quest to find out.” I mean, there’s nothing wrong with this. It can be a great tool for a fantastic plot. I just hated the way it was done here.
Overall, this was so disappointing. I gave it two stars because the latter part of the book, towards the end, is a lot more interesting than the beginning. For this reason, I can see myself picking up the next book and giving it a chance, but I don’t see myself recommending it.
April 16, 2014
Let me start off by addressing my deep love for the title. Scintillate is a gorgeous word and I must admit at first sight, I thought it was made up. But after discovering the definition on Google, emit flashes of light; sparkle. I think I am in love. I want to find a use for it in my everyday vocabulary so badly that it hurts.
I found the beginning of the book to be quite confusing. The author utilized the comma, in my mind, a bit excessively especially in the descriptive portions of the writing. I am personally a huge fan of commas and tend to use them a little to much, as pointed out to me by others. However, if the queen of commas notices a slight overuse while engrossed in a story, that may be an issue. It was not just the commas, I felt as if many of the sentences that contained commas would have been better suited to use a semicolon. These sentences were choppy sentences that became separated by commas, in many cases they were completely different thoughts that did not seem to logically fit together.
But man, did that book pick up. I found the story thrilling and enticing. It was not what I expected by any means. It wasn't that I expected the book to be bad, but the beginning is not what some would call a promising story. It's as if a completely new author wrote the book. It allows you to see the growth of Tracy as an author as well as the characters.
The novel keeps you on the edge of your seat, I was so excited to find out what happens that I read it in two days. I actually found myself looking into the trilogy (yes!! there are more books to come) without even realizing that this book isn't even released yet. eugh.
I found the plot to be surprisingly authentic, I have not come across any books in my travels that deal specifically with aura reading. It was a pleasant surprise to not know what to expect. There may be a slight love triangle, don't worry though, even if it does turn out to be one, that isn't the focus of the book. Scintillate, in all it's glory, works to emphasize family. Cora may not realize how much her family does for her, but she will.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a cleanse of the pallet, something refreshing and new. And since it comes out tomorrow, I suggest you get ready for this one!
February 7, 2014
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author and the tour organizers for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Wow!!! I loved this totally!!!
What a great plot and the story line is so good and new that I just got absorbed in this fantastic world that the author created for us. The events that slowly unfolded made me so interested in this story and with each turning page I lost myself completely in this breath-taking book.
The writing style of the author is so rich and detailed that I fell in love with her style of expressing her thoughts on a piece of paper. Moreover the characters are so mature and developed that I couldn't even spot a single flaw in them.
There is mystery, suspense and on top of everything there is true and selfless love that made me cry at times and squeal in joy the other times. I was really anxious to know the truth and cause behind the super powers of our heroine and why her love for Finn wasn't accepted by others but the author kept the secret hidden till the end and I had to read faster to know it.
This is a great and entertaining read that will surely touch your heart and I would definitely recommend this book to others as well. Hope that you guys will love it too.
Firstly I would like to thank the author and the tour organizers for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Wow!!! I loved this totally!!!
What a great plot and the story line is so good and new that I just got absorbed in this fantastic world that the author created for us. The events that slowly unfolded made me so interested in this story and with each turning page I lost myself completely in this breath-taking book.
The writing style of the author is so rich and detailed that I fell in love with her style of expressing her thoughts on a piece of paper. Moreover the characters are so mature and developed that I couldn't even spot a single flaw in them.
There is mystery, suspense and on top of everything there is true and selfless love that made me cry at times and squeal in joy the other times. I was really anxious to know the truth and cause behind the super powers of our heroine and why her love for Finn wasn't accepted by others but the author kept the secret hidden till the end and I had to read faster to know it.
This is a great and entertaining read that will surely touch your heart and I would definitely recommend this book to others as well. Hope that you guys will love it too.
February 3, 2014
After Cora nearly dies from a sudden, intense fever, she discovers that she can see colorful auras that surround everyone she sees. Cora is afraid that something in her brain has been damaged, and even more disturbing, her father, a scientist, discounts her fears as imaginary. Cora can't believe that the strange man with a pure white aura is imaginary, however, and he seems to be stalking her with mal-intent. Cora's father has always been strict and controlling, but when Cora and Finn, the new Irish exchange student, strike up a friendship, he becomes unbearably rigid and harsh, not allowing her to spend any time with Finn. Cora's search for answers, for not only her ability to see auras, but also for why her color is a shining silver, leads her to Ireland. Her father has always told Cora that her mother is gone - but gone, how, why? Cora will need to learn about her past in order to solve the frightening new realities she is facing.
This is a riveting, fast-paced story, that requires readers to think about how we perceive each other, and how we react based on those perception. I would recommend this book for my YA readers, but also for adults, too! Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC.
This is a riveting, fast-paced story, that requires readers to think about how we perceive each other, and how we react based on those perception. I would recommend this book for my YA readers, but also for adults, too! Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC.
did-not-finish
February 4, 2014Can't continue it now. Maybe later. Maybe never.
This book reminds me strongly of Twilight and I'm not in the mood for yet another version, complete with a socially inept super special heroine prone to reckless behavior and an impossible "fated" insta-love with a dreaded triangle on top (or at least what I think will be a love triangle in the future books).
This book reminds me strongly of Twilight and I'm not in the mood for yet another version, complete with a socially inept super special heroine prone to reckless behavior and an impossible "fated" insta-love with a dreaded triangle on top (or at least what I think will be a love triangle in the future books).
January 17, 2014
4.75 stars. Quite spectacular really. Full review to come.
January 24, 2014
2.5 stars
So I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. And came out just as unsure. My first thought after finishing was, naturally, what the hell happens next? But it wasn't in a "can't-wait-to-read-the-next-book" way, I was almost frustrated because so much hadn't been answered.
The writing style of this book is what I would recommend for middle grade readers, as Cora's quippy one-liners and the banter between her friends reminds me a bit of the earliest Percy Jackson books, back when they were a lot more basic. Cora's a funny main character, and I will say I liked her. But as the story went on found her reactions became a bit... unrealistic.
Cora becomes what I would say is either one of the bravest or one of the stupidest main character I've read recently.
CORA DON'T GO LOOKING FOR TROUBLE I ACTUALLY LIKED YOU.
In terms of the love interest, it's a little more involved than I would have liked - I thought the story about Cora's mysterious powers and her searching for her mom were much more interesting than the parts where Finn, the 'gorgeous' Irish exchange student, came in. To be honest almost half the book focuses on the romance aspect of the story.
This review has been a bit scathing, and I would like to reiterate that it's not meant to be. I had problems with the book, but it was an enjoyable read. It didn't suffer from the "this is just like 'x' novel" problem that plagues so many other YA novels.
Despite, there are those repetitive storylines; the classic all consuming romance, and the not-sure-if-its-there love triangle, the heroine who decides to defy her father in the most life threatening way possible - Scintillate's greatest triumph is the fact that it has differences. The magic system is unique and unpredictable, which is quite often a breath of fresh air in YA fantasy novels. It's not a typical type of magic, so if anything you want to dig deeper into the story in order to understand what the heck is happening. And luckily things do move quite quickly in the book, and it's pretty face paced - things go from bad to worse in no time at all, as Cora starts seeing some absolutely horrifying things (namely innocent people having the life sucked out of them) as she realises the extent of danger she's in.
So overall , Scintillate is an okay start to the Light Key trilogy, one that certainly leaves you with a multitude of questions that need to be answered. If you're looking to start a new series that's a bit of a light read, that heavy on romance as well as a bit of magic mystery, you'll certainly enjoy it.
So I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. And came out just as unsure. My first thought after finishing was, naturally, what the hell happens next? But it wasn't in a "can't-wait-to-read-the-next-book" way, I was almost frustrated because so much hadn't been answered.
The writing style of this book is what I would recommend for middle grade readers, as Cora's quippy one-liners and the banter between her friends reminds me a bit of the earliest Percy Jackson books, back when they were a lot more basic. Cora's a funny main character, and I will say I liked her. But as the story went on found her reactions became a bit... unrealistic.
Cora becomes what I would say is either one of the bravest or one of the stupidest main character I've read recently.
CORA DON'T GO LOOKING FOR TROUBLE I ACTUALLY LIKED YOU.
In terms of the love interest, it's a little more involved than I would have liked - I thought the story about Cora's mysterious powers and her searching for her mom were much more interesting than the parts where Finn, the 'gorgeous' Irish exchange student, came in. To be honest almost half the book focuses on the romance aspect of the story.
This review has been a bit scathing, and I would like to reiterate that it's not meant to be. I had problems with the book, but it was an enjoyable read. It didn't suffer from the "this is just like 'x' novel" problem that plagues so many other YA novels.
Despite, there are those repetitive storylines; the classic all consuming romance, and the not-sure-if-its-there love triangle, the heroine who decides to defy her father in the most life threatening way possible - Scintillate's greatest triumph is the fact that it has differences. The magic system is unique and unpredictable, which is quite often a breath of fresh air in YA fantasy novels. It's not a typical type of magic, so if anything you want to dig deeper into the story in order to understand what the heck is happening. And luckily things do move quite quickly in the book, and it's pretty face paced - things go from bad to worse in no time at all, as Cora starts seeing some absolutely horrifying things (namely innocent people having the life sucked out of them) as she realises the extent of danger she's in.
So overall , Scintillate is an okay start to the Light Key trilogy, one that certainly leaves you with a multitude of questions that need to be answered. If you're looking to start a new series that's a bit of a light read, that heavy on romance as well as a bit of magic mystery, you'll certainly enjoy it.
December 28, 2014
Original post on http://readingadd.blogspot.ro/.
I've met with this book a few times in the past but for an unknown reason I haven't read it, until today. And today I wanted to read it so bad, because I received the sequel for review. And I'm so glad I read it.
As you may hear me saying, I'm a bit tired of YA books because majority of them are the same or they give you this feeling. But this one felt so different and unique and very fresh: fresh characters, action and plot, and writing style. Plus the idea is very original and I really liked how it was used.
Scintillate was a huge surprise for me, because it was amazing from beginning until the end and everything went in a crazy way from second half on the novel. But in a very good way, don't worry. I have nothing bad to say about this novel, because everything it was perfect. The plot is awesome developed and so many things happen that you can't see coming and a ton of stuff is going to happen in the next one. Everything is dosed and the suspense was sometimes such a pain in the ass because I couldn't read fast enough as my curiosity was driving me *giggles*
Cora is such a powerful character and I liked that she didn't panicked and dramatized so much when she find out that she had powers, because I'm tad tired of teenage unecessary drama. And I could feel everything and sometimes her emotions were so strong that I couldn't breath. About Giovanni and Finn I won't talk now, because my opinion is not completely formed about them and now there are kinda on the same line, for many reasons.
And the only character that really drove me crazy was Cora's dad. And a ton of awful things happen because of his stupid atitude.
To conclude this review I must say that I'm very sad, cause this book doesn't get the attention that she deservese. I heard anyone talking about this and I dunno why, because is original, awesome and very well written. And is good for anyone, doesn't matter what genre you like (fantasy, sf, dystopia, contemporary, romance) or if you like New Adult or Young Adult, because this one is kind of a mix. So, highly highly recommend and just go and read it!
I've met with this book a few times in the past but for an unknown reason I haven't read it, until today. And today I wanted to read it so bad, because I received the sequel for review. And I'm so glad I read it.
As you may hear me saying, I'm a bit tired of YA books because majority of them are the same or they give you this feeling. But this one felt so different and unique and very fresh: fresh characters, action and plot, and writing style. Plus the idea is very original and I really liked how it was used.
Scintillate was a huge surprise for me, because it was amazing from beginning until the end and everything went in a crazy way from second half on the novel. But in a very good way, don't worry. I have nothing bad to say about this novel, because everything it was perfect. The plot is awesome developed and so many things happen that you can't see coming and a ton of stuff is going to happen in the next one. Everything is dosed and the suspense was sometimes such a pain in the ass because I couldn't read fast enough as my curiosity was driving me *giggles*
Cora is such a powerful character and I liked that she didn't panicked and dramatized so much when she find out that she had powers, because I'm tad tired of teenage unecessary drama. And I could feel everything and sometimes her emotions were so strong that I couldn't breath. About Giovanni and Finn I won't talk now, because my opinion is not completely formed about them and now there are kinda on the same line, for many reasons.
And the only character that really drove me crazy was Cora's dad. And a ton of awful things happen because of his stupid atitude.
To conclude this review I must say that I'm very sad, cause this book doesn't get the attention that she deservese. I heard anyone talking about this and I dunno why, because is original, awesome and very well written. And is good for anyone, doesn't matter what genre you like (fantasy, sf, dystopia, contemporary, romance) or if you like New Adult or Young Adult, because this one is kind of a mix. So, highly highly recommend and just go and read it!
February 3, 2015
I had the honor of BETA reading an early version of this story. I loved it then, but I LOVE it NOW! The story is so much deeper and broader than when I first read it.
Cora is loveable and real. I thought the attraction between Cora and Finn was totally believable, especially given that their rush-to-affection is plausibly explained late in the book. And then their relationship really takes on way more depth. But none of that detracts from the scorching nature of their romance. It’s hawt.
The prose is beautiful and lush. Ms. Clark certainly has a way with words and turns of phrases, bending them to her whim and fancy. And the themes tackled in the book, metaphysics and interpersonal energy, are a personal hot button for me... and she did a wonderful job of crafting a mythology around these topics.
The artifacts and mystery of the story and what Cora uncovers engaged my mind in a way that few books do. And I love when that happens, love books that not only tell a good story, but also make me think. And even though I knew pretty much what was going to happen… I was still pleasantly surprised by many elements.
I also love books that introduce new places and cultures in a real way. I got a good sense of Santa Cruz and the Redwood forest. And the scenes in Ireland were totally immersive.
The ending is sad but satisfying in the way that fantasy/ quest stories can be. Many threads are tied off nicely. Some questions are answered, and some linger. The ending really does set the course for a huge quest... for information and understanding of self and others, if not more artifacts… to ultimately solve the much larger mystery in which Cora finds herself entangled. (pun intended)
Cora is loveable and real. I thought the attraction between Cora and Finn was totally believable, especially given that their rush-to-affection is plausibly explained late in the book. And then their relationship really takes on way more depth. But none of that detracts from the scorching nature of their romance. It’s hawt.
The prose is beautiful and lush. Ms. Clark certainly has a way with words and turns of phrases, bending them to her whim and fancy. And the themes tackled in the book, metaphysics and interpersonal energy, are a personal hot button for me... and she did a wonderful job of crafting a mythology around these topics.
The artifacts and mystery of the story and what Cora uncovers engaged my mind in a way that few books do. And I love when that happens, love books that not only tell a good story, but also make me think. And even though I knew pretty much what was going to happen… I was still pleasantly surprised by many elements.
I also love books that introduce new places and cultures in a real way. I got a good sense of Santa Cruz and the Redwood forest. And the scenes in Ireland were totally immersive.
The ending is sad but satisfying in the way that fantasy/ quest stories can be. Many threads are tied off nicely. Some questions are answered, and some linger. The ending really does set the course for a huge quest... for information and understanding of self and others, if not more artifacts… to ultimately solve the much larger mystery in which Cora finds herself entangled. (pun intended)
February 8, 2014
I will say that the story was a little slow to start. I get that it had to be, the reader is getting used to Cora’s new world just as she is and the changes she sees all around her. As much as I appreciated the time to get comfortable with her world as she saw it, and her fight to find any answer she can in the face of so many roadblocks, there were times it felt a little sluggish, almost repetitive.
That slower pace didn’t last, though. The last half of SCINTILLATE was almost like a roller coaster that just wouldn’t end. Every time I thought the story might be coasting to a conclusion, the tires hit another huge pot hole and jarred me right back into slack-jawed mutterings. I think I was actually gasping out loud a few times. And just when you think you’ve got a handle on it…the plot twists again. A few made me whoop, a few made me cry, all of them made me want more.
SCINTILLATE’s main character, Cora, is another in a new breed of flawed heroines (a trend I wholly agree with.) She’s not perfect, she makes mistakes and follows her own wants even in the face of others trying to stop her. Sometimes for the good, sometimes not, but for those impetuous flaws, Cora learns from her failures and from her mistakes. It’s going to be an interesting ride, I think, watching her come into her own.
It’s always hard reading the first in a series because the nature of the beast is questions you won’t get answers to. SCINTILLATE has its share of those, but at the same time, I was left fulfilled. Just enough answers to make the story feel complete in itself, and enough questions to leave me panting for the next in the Light Key Trilogy. And I will be snapping it up the second I can.
That slower pace didn’t last, though. The last half of SCINTILLATE was almost like a roller coaster that just wouldn’t end. Every time I thought the story might be coasting to a conclusion, the tires hit another huge pot hole and jarred me right back into slack-jawed mutterings. I think I was actually gasping out loud a few times. And just when you think you’ve got a handle on it…the plot twists again. A few made me whoop, a few made me cry, all of them made me want more.
SCINTILLATE’s main character, Cora, is another in a new breed of flawed heroines (a trend I wholly agree with.) She’s not perfect, she makes mistakes and follows her own wants even in the face of others trying to stop her. Sometimes for the good, sometimes not, but for those impetuous flaws, Cora learns from her failures and from her mistakes. It’s going to be an interesting ride, I think, watching her come into her own.
It’s always hard reading the first in a series because the nature of the beast is questions you won’t get answers to. SCINTILLATE has its share of those, but at the same time, I was left fulfilled. Just enough answers to make the story feel complete in itself, and enough questions to leave me panting for the next in the Light Key Trilogy. And I will be snapping it up the second I can.
December 29, 2013
*I was given an ARC for an honest review*
Wonderful! I would actually give this book a 4.5. I was skeptical because it begins with the typical YA paranormal blueprint, but the book exceeded my expectations (premise included auras and Irish lore). The plot twists and turns were not easily predictable (which I like). And while the ending of the book left unanswered questions (of course), I was satisfied where it did. (will add further thoughts after book is released)
Wonderful! I would actually give this book a 4.5. I was skeptical because it begins with the typical YA paranormal blueprint, but the book exceeded my expectations (premise included auras and Irish lore). The plot twists and turns were not easily predictable (which I like). And while the ending of the book left unanswered questions (of course), I was satisfied where it did. (will add further thoughts after book is released)
December 30, 2019
I won this book as a Goodreads giveaway. Tracy Clark has developed an entire new world that I can't wait to immerse myself in farther. Clark has created a story line that captivates and pulls the reader in leaving them begging for more. This first book of the trilogy lays the building blocks for a wonderful story. The main characters each have secrets in their lives that even they are unaware of at the beginning of the novel. As the story progresses and secrets are revealed the reader becomes more attached to the characters. I can't wait to read the next installment of this trilogy. I would recommend this book for anyone who likes the idea of auras and beings who are not quite worldly. I would also think it would be a great read for YA audience.
September 11, 2016
Let me tell you, Ms. Tracy Clark doesn't play around in this book! The storyline moves very rapidly and there's not a lot of fluff (other than the romance of course hehe).
I LOVE FIN! He is so sexy and lovable and squeezable and dreeeeaammy and I just LOVE HIM!
So this is what the book is about:
And how Cora gains the ability to sense these auras and the fight against evil people who want to suck the life out of her...literally.
Btw, I very much enjoy insta-love. There's just something so darn soulmatey and downright swoony about the whole thing.
Though it was nice that the story progressed quickly, it was almost like a speeding train with no brakes and I was a little bit....worn out? Not sure if that's the proper feeling because I wasn't tired of the story, just that there was really no place to take a break and absorb all the information and new turn of events. I think the novel would have produced a better result for me if it slowed down just a bit, explained things a little earlier in the book, then had Finn and Cora working together to accomplish a goal rather than having Cora hamming her way through the entire thing until the end, still not understanding the gravity of the situation until like...90% through because by then, it's just the story wrapping up and hitting a brick wall.
All in all, an easy read and I didn't feel like tearing out my hair for once due to poor editing or lack thereof. Just a bit of content issue for me.
I LOVE FIN! He is so sexy and lovable and squeezable and dreeeeaammy and I just LOVE HIM!
So this is what the book is about:
And how Cora gains the ability to sense these auras and the fight against evil people who want to suck the life out of her...literally.
Btw, I very much enjoy insta-love. There's just something so darn soulmatey and downright swoony about the whole thing.
Though it was nice that the story progressed quickly, it was almost like a speeding train with no brakes and I was a little bit....worn out? Not sure if that's the proper feeling because I wasn't tired of the story, just that there was really no place to take a break and absorb all the information and new turn of events. I think the novel would have produced a better result for me if it slowed down just a bit, explained things a little earlier in the book, then had Finn and Cora working together to accomplish a goal rather than having Cora hamming her way through the entire thing until the end, still not understanding the gravity of the situation until like...90% through because by then, it's just the story wrapping up and hitting a brick wall.
All in all, an easy read and I didn't feel like tearing out my hair for once due to poor editing or lack thereof. Just a bit of content issue for me.
February 13, 2014
I wasn’t sure about this book when I started it. It started off slow for me but I kept reading and I am glad I did.
We meet Cora who leads a boring life that is until she gets extremely sick and upon getting better she can now see auras. And of course Cora doesn’t understand her new ability or why her aura is so different from everyone else. She shares her worries with her over protective father but he just comes up with excuses and doesn’t take her seriously.
Cora soon learns that there is a whole new world for her and why she is exploring it a boy from school named Finn comes into her life. This is where I got a little annoyed with the book as there is an instant attraction well from Finn side and this does get explained in the book later. I also understood Cora falling for him as she has no experience with boys due to her father being so overly protective of her. I was hoping Cora would see Finn for what he was and would stay away from him but I knew once she was going to Ireland she would see him again.
I really liked Giovanni more and thought he was more swoon worthy over Finn. Even though he has his own secrets which is a theme in this book. He does become important to Cora while she is in Ireland and the story picks up more and had me trying to figure out what was going to happen next with all the twists and turns.
But for me the characters I really loved were Cora’s best friends Mari and Dun and I am hoping their story gets explored more in the next book which I am now wanting and can’t wait to read it. 4/5 Bloody Fangs
We meet Cora who leads a boring life that is until she gets extremely sick and upon getting better she can now see auras. And of course Cora doesn’t understand her new ability or why her aura is so different from everyone else. She shares her worries with her over protective father but he just comes up with excuses and doesn’t take her seriously.
Cora soon learns that there is a whole new world for her and why she is exploring it a boy from school named Finn comes into her life. This is where I got a little annoyed with the book as there is an instant attraction well from Finn side and this does get explained in the book later. I also understood Cora falling for him as she has no experience with boys due to her father being so overly protective of her. I was hoping Cora would see Finn for what he was and would stay away from him but I knew once she was going to Ireland she would see him again.
I really liked Giovanni more and thought he was more swoon worthy over Finn. Even though he has his own secrets which is a theme in this book. He does become important to Cora while she is in Ireland and the story picks up more and had me trying to figure out what was going to happen next with all the twists and turns.
But for me the characters I really loved were Cora’s best friends Mari and Dun and I am hoping their story gets explored more in the next book which I am now wanting and can’t wait to read it. 4/5 Bloody Fangs
November 25, 2014
*Review can also be found on my blog, here.*
This book is just intriguing.
The characters are fantastic. Cora is downright sassy, and Finn's Irish accent is so swoon-worthy. If this book taught me anything, it's how to speak in an Irish accent. The WhaleOilBeefHooked thing took me way too long to figure out, but once I did, I couldn't stop talking in an accent (or laughing hysterically, for that matter). Marie and Dun are so cute, and ...
At first, I was scared this was going to turn into a love-triangle, but strangely, I feel like it didn't. Sure, there are two hot guys vying for Cora's attention, but there really isn't any competition for Cora. Which makes me very happy. I definitely don't need another YA love-triangle in my life!
The plot is fast-paced and captivating, but it kind of slows down towards the middle. I was okay with that, though, because the ending definitely made up for it! There are so many plot twists, I was having a hard time absorbing everything. I had to set the book down a couple of times just to take everything in. By the end of the book, I was looking up the publication date of the next book so I could start counting down the days!
This is a definite must-read for YA lovers! Especially if you're into auras and hot Irish men.
This book is just intriguing.
The characters are fantastic. Cora is downright sassy, and Finn's Irish accent is so swoon-worthy. If this book taught me anything, it's how to speak in an Irish accent. The WhaleOilBeefHooked thing took me way too long to figure out, but once I did, I couldn't stop talking in an accent (or laughing hysterically, for that matter). Marie and Dun are so cute, and ...
At first, I was scared this was going to turn into a love-triangle, but strangely, I feel like it didn't. Sure, there are two hot guys vying for Cora's attention, but there really isn't any competition for Cora. Which makes me very happy. I definitely don't need another YA love-triangle in my life!
The plot is fast-paced and captivating, but it kind of slows down towards the middle. I was okay with that, though, because the ending definitely made up for it! There are so many plot twists, I was having a hard time absorbing everything. I had to set the book down a couple of times just to take everything in. By the end of the book, I was looking up the publication date of the next book so I could start counting down the days!
This is a definite must-read for YA lovers! Especially if you're into auras and hot Irish men.
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