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The Black Angel Chronicles #1
You Don't Know My Name
Fighter. Faker. Student. Spy.
Seventeen-year-old Reagan Elizabeth Hillis is used to changing identities overnight, lying to every friend she’s ever had, and pushing away anyone who gets too close. Trained in mortal combat and weaponry her entire life, Reagan is expected to follow in her parents’ footsteps and join the ranks of the most powerful top-secret agency in the world, the Black Angels. Falling in love with the boy next door was never part of the plan. Now Reagan must decide: Will she use her incredible talents and lead the dangerous life she was born into, or throw it all away to follow her heart and embrace the normal life she’s always wanted? And does she even have a choice?
Seventeen-year-old Reagan Elizabeth Hillis is used to changing identities overnight, lying to every friend she’s ever had, and pushing away anyone who gets too close. Trained in mortal combat and weaponry her entire life, Reagan is expected to follow in her parents’ footsteps and join the ranks of the most powerful top-secret agency in the world, the Black Angels. Falling in love with the boy next door was never part of the plan. Now Reagan must decide: Will she use her incredible talents and lead the dangerous life she was born into, or throw it all away to follow her heart and embrace the normal life she’s always wanted? And does she even have a choice?
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 10, 2017
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7264 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 439 reviews
October 29, 2018
Overall a 4. Extremely cozy teen crush story gave it the extra star it needed to get rounded up to the 5.
Q:
Mom and Dad do their best to ease my mind but I don’t know of too many other sixteen-year-olds who have weapons stashed in hiding spots outside of school. Who sleep with knives taped to their headboards or know ten different ways to break someone’s neck. Looking over my shoulder will be my life and I guess I’m okay with that. (c)
Q:
... stomach is perfectly flat, the result of five hundred push-ups a day for the last twenty years. (c)
Q:
He’s warmer than you’d expect a man of his military status to be, but I know beneath that thinning white hairline is a brain trained to analyze every word and action, just like mine. (с)
Q:
My life has never felt like my own. And my future certainly doesn’t belong to me. (c)
Q:
What do you want?”
To stay in the light. To leave this dark and dangerous life. Or at least have the power to choose. ...
“What are you so afraid of?”
I’m scared of everything. I’m scared of angering my parents and wasting my talent if I choose college. I’m scared of a life full of constant fear and alienation if I choose the Black Angels. I’m scared of never falling in love and never being happy.(c)
Q:
“You only get one life,” ... “No one’s going to be able to give you a road map and you can’t live it for somebody else. You’ve got to live it for you.”
...
“The moment will come when you’ll know what to do,” ... “When it does come, pay attention. Don’t close your eyes. Don’t let it slip away.” (c)
Q:
“If heaven has seasons,” I say, my face tilted up, soaking in the vibrant colors, “this must be what fall looks like.” (c)
Q:
In the last year I’ve done a series of pirouettes in the middle of AP bio, meowed at complete strangers in the mall, and stood up and licked my plate clean in the middle of the Cheesecake Factory, all on dares. This one is child’s play. I rock back on my heels, then take off running and leap headfirst into the colorful pile. Crimson, burnt orange, and gold leaves explode around me, then float back down, covering my face and body. I laugh and blow at a yellow leaf that landed on my lips. (c)
Q:
“Would you rather,” Luke begins, “have a billion dollars or know all the secrets to the universe?”
“Secrets to the universe,” I answer confidently even though pretender Reagan would say money. Luke gets the truth. (c)
Q:
Turn off emotions, push away the poison, I hear my mom’s voice in my head. And so I do. (c)
Q:
There’s no such thing as perfect. But there’s always the chance of wonderful. (c)
Q:
Some people aren’t meant to be happy. Some are meant to change the world. You were meant to change the world. (c)
Q:
His face scrunches as the night comes back to him. (c)
Q:
Funny to describe someone who kicks people in the face for a living as graceful, but she is. She sort of just floats. (c)
Q:
With each breath, my racing heart slows. Something resembling peace washes over me. Maybe it’s my training or the smell of seawater. Maybe it’s Laz’s prayer. Whatever it is, my heart isn’t filled with fear. It’s filled with something I’ve never felt before. Whatever it is, I need it to stay with me. I breathe in the Colombian air and hold it in my lungs. Stay with me, please. Dear God, please stay with me. (c)
Q:
For me, the world will never look as colorful. The moon will never seem as bright. My laugh will never be as loud. My smile will never be as wide. (c)
Q:
Mom and Dad do their best to ease my mind but I don’t know of too many other sixteen-year-olds who have weapons stashed in hiding spots outside of school. Who sleep with knives taped to their headboards or know ten different ways to break someone’s neck. Looking over my shoulder will be my life and I guess I’m okay with that. (c)
Q:
... stomach is perfectly flat, the result of five hundred push-ups a day for the last twenty years. (c)
Q:
He’s warmer than you’d expect a man of his military status to be, but I know beneath that thinning white hairline is a brain trained to analyze every word and action, just like mine. (с)
Q:
My life has never felt like my own. And my future certainly doesn’t belong to me. (c)
Q:
What do you want?”
To stay in the light. To leave this dark and dangerous life. Or at least have the power to choose. ...
“What are you so afraid of?”
I’m scared of everything. I’m scared of angering my parents and wasting my talent if I choose college. I’m scared of a life full of constant fear and alienation if I choose the Black Angels. I’m scared of never falling in love and never being happy.(c)
Q:
“You only get one life,” ... “No one’s going to be able to give you a road map and you can’t live it for somebody else. You’ve got to live it for you.”
...
“The moment will come when you’ll know what to do,” ... “When it does come, pay attention. Don’t close your eyes. Don’t let it slip away.” (c)
Q:
“If heaven has seasons,” I say, my face tilted up, soaking in the vibrant colors, “this must be what fall looks like.” (c)
Q:
In the last year I’ve done a series of pirouettes in the middle of AP bio, meowed at complete strangers in the mall, and stood up and licked my plate clean in the middle of the Cheesecake Factory, all on dares. This one is child’s play. I rock back on my heels, then take off running and leap headfirst into the colorful pile. Crimson, burnt orange, and gold leaves explode around me, then float back down, covering my face and body. I laugh and blow at a yellow leaf that landed on my lips. (c)
Q:
“Would you rather,” Luke begins, “have a billion dollars or know all the secrets to the universe?”
“Secrets to the universe,” I answer confidently even though pretender Reagan would say money. Luke gets the truth. (c)
Q:
Turn off emotions, push away the poison, I hear my mom’s voice in my head. And so I do. (c)
Q:
There’s no such thing as perfect. But there’s always the chance of wonderful. (c)
Q:
Some people aren’t meant to be happy. Some are meant to change the world. You were meant to change the world. (c)
Q:
His face scrunches as the night comes back to him. (c)
Q:
Funny to describe someone who kicks people in the face for a living as graceful, but she is. She sort of just floats. (c)
Q:
With each breath, my racing heart slows. Something resembling peace washes over me. Maybe it’s my training or the smell of seawater. Maybe it’s Laz’s prayer. Whatever it is, my heart isn’t filled with fear. It’s filled with something I’ve never felt before. Whatever it is, I need it to stay with me. I breathe in the Colombian air and hold it in my lungs. Stay with me, please. Dear God, please stay with me. (c)
Q:
For me, the world will never look as colorful. The moon will never seem as bright. My laugh will never be as loud. My smile will never be as wide. (c)
January 8, 2017
Kristen Orlando delivers in her debut, You Don't Know My Name, and I absolutely LOVED this book! It's been awhile since I've found myself sitting on the edge of my seat, not able to stop turning the pages in a book.
"I just wanted to be part of something normal, something that was mine."
The story immediately brings you into Reagan's thrilling life as her family is being forced into their panic room, thanks to an assassin invading their home. Opening up with this scene was genius, in my opinion. I wasn't really sure why all of this was happening to them, but I did know I needed this family to be safe. I immediately connected to both Reagan and her parents as their lives are on the line. Every emotion she felt, I was feeling along with her.
The story slows down as we get to know Reagan a little better.. I loved the girl. She's intelligent, brave, fierce, basically everything you want in a strong heroine. She felt relatable when she showed her more vulnerable side because anyone would break down in the situations she's put in. I'm not going to lie.. There were some heartbreaking moments, like YES GIRL BREAK DOWN. You need to let those tears loose, just let it out. . .
Besides Reagan, all of the characters were interesting! There wasn't one character that I didn't like.. Well, except the evil ones. Her friends, parents, and everyone in her life were great.
"I don't like it when you pretend you're someone you're not. I just want you to be you. Good. Bad. Anxious. I'll still be here."
Let's talk about the adorableness that is Luke.. Okay, and the romance! What did I enjoy most about the book's slower pace in the beginning? Yes, the sweet blooming romance that brought all the swoons. GAHHH, there is a scene that is just perfect and made me wish I could hug these two for being so cute!! But.. seriously Luke is just a great character outside of the romance. He's way more than a love interest and I was so happy to see that! They make a great team and I promise you will be happy with all the feels he brings to Reagan's story.
As the story progresses, the plot grows and the twists don't stop until the very end! There's not much I can say without spoiling it, but I will say that my heart was racing as I continued to read this book.. Probably why I couldn't stop reading. I found Orlando's writing to be stunning and her descriptions were perfect.. Just the right amount of suspense without dragging anything out! I'm looking forward to all of her future work!
Overall, I loved this book. I wasn't sure what I was expecting as I began reading this story.. But I got a fun, thrilling emotional ride! I think readers will immediately connect with Reagan and her family, bringing them to root for these characters until the very end. If you're looking for a thrilling book with great characters (even a coming-of-age story underneath it all) then I highly recommend this book!
* Quotes listed above are subject to change.
"I just wanted to be part of something normal, something that was mine."
The story immediately brings you into Reagan's thrilling life as her family is being forced into their panic room, thanks to an assassin invading their home. Opening up with this scene was genius, in my opinion. I wasn't really sure why all of this was happening to them, but I did know I needed this family to be safe. I immediately connected to both Reagan and her parents as their lives are on the line. Every emotion she felt, I was feeling along with her.
The story slows down as we get to know Reagan a little better.. I loved the girl. She's intelligent, brave, fierce, basically everything you want in a strong heroine. She felt relatable when she showed her more vulnerable side because anyone would break down in the situations she's put in. I'm not going to lie.. There were some heartbreaking moments, like YES GIRL BREAK DOWN. You need to let those tears loose, just let it out. . .
Besides Reagan, all of the characters were interesting! There wasn't one character that I didn't like.. Well, except the evil ones. Her friends, parents, and everyone in her life were great.
"I don't like it when you pretend you're someone you're not. I just want you to be you. Good. Bad. Anxious. I'll still be here."
Let's talk about the adorableness that is Luke.. Okay, and the romance! What did I enjoy most about the book's slower pace in the beginning? Yes, the sweet blooming romance that brought all the swoons. GAHHH, there is a scene that is just perfect and made me wish I could hug these two for being so cute!! But.. seriously Luke is just a great character outside of the romance. He's way more than a love interest and I was so happy to see that! They make a great team and I promise you will be happy with all the feels he brings to Reagan's story.
As the story progresses, the plot grows and the twists don't stop until the very end! There's not much I can say without spoiling it, but I will say that my heart was racing as I continued to read this book.. Probably why I couldn't stop reading. I found Orlando's writing to be stunning and her descriptions were perfect.. Just the right amount of suspense without dragging anything out! I'm looking forward to all of her future work!
Overall, I loved this book. I wasn't sure what I was expecting as I began reading this story.. But I got a fun, thrilling emotional ride! I think readers will immediately connect with Reagan and her family, bringing them to root for these characters until the very end. If you're looking for a thrilling book with great characters (even a coming-of-age story underneath it all) then I highly recommend this book!
* Quotes listed above are subject to change.
May 8, 2017
DNF
Mini review:
This was one of my anticipated releases of 2017. I love spy books and couldn't wait to read this! Unfortunately I was really disappointed.
The first half was fantastic! I loved Reagan and her relationships with the people around her. Especially her mother. This was different from most spy books. Unlike a majority of spy books Reagan has not spent her life working in the spy world. She has been training but hasn't actually gone on any missions. So she actually gets to experience a relatively normal life. She goes to high school, does her homework as well as train, and makes friends. This was why I loved it in the beginning.
Then it started to go downhill after the spy stuff actually came in. Honestly Reagan was smarter than the spies who have been doing this for years. Their plans were stupid and Reagan's plans actually made more sense. I did not want to read a second book about a bunch of stupid spies. Also I'm not happy with the death in this book (I read the last few chapters).
I do still recommend it because there are people who enjoyed it.
Mini review:
This was one of my anticipated releases of 2017. I love spy books and couldn't wait to read this! Unfortunately I was really disappointed.
The first half was fantastic! I loved Reagan and her relationships with the people around her. Especially her mother. This was different from most spy books. Unlike a majority of spy books Reagan has not spent her life working in the spy world. She has been training but hasn't actually gone on any missions. So she actually gets to experience a relatively normal life. She goes to high school, does her homework as well as train, and makes friends. This was why I loved it in the beginning.
Then it started to go downhill after the spy stuff actually came in. Honestly Reagan was smarter than the spies who have been doing this for years. Their plans were stupid and Reagan's plans actually made more sense. I did not want to read a second book about a bunch of stupid spies. Also I'm not happy with the death in this book (I read the last few chapters).
I do still recommend it because there are people who enjoyed it.
December 2, 2016
I'm a sucker for secret spy stories, so I was pretty excited about this one.
I liked Reagan well enough. She's quite a BAMF, but tempered with a whiny and stubborn teenager, which made it read authentically. I loved Luke {surprise, surprise} and her friends, but really hoped for more from the relationship with her parents.
It's a bit of a slow burn until The Event happens and then it's pretty fast paced. And even though I liked it, I still feel like something was missing. The ending is wicked and I definitely didn't see it coming. I'm intrigued to see what happens next.
**Huge thanks to Swoon Reads for providing the arc free of charge**
I liked Reagan well enough. She's quite a BAMF, but tempered with a whiny and stubborn teenager, which made it read authentically. I loved Luke {surprise, surprise} and her friends, but really hoped for more from the relationship with her parents.
It's a bit of a slow burn until The Event happens and then it's pretty fast paced. And even though I liked it, I still feel like something was missing. The ending is wicked and I definitely didn't see it coming. I'm intrigued to see what happens next.
**Huge thanks to Swoon Reads for providing the arc free of charge**
September 10, 2021
Second time read and review.
I'm pretty sure my opinion on You Don't Know My Name did a little upgrade. Still leaving the rating though because it's just a little bit higher than 3.5 at the moment.
In it, you will meet Reagan. There's really no point mentioning her last name because she doesn't even go by that anymore. Or at least she hasn't for a long ass time. Due to parents being super secret bad ass spies, she moves around a lot because of what they do. I'm going to include her into this little situation because she's been a super secret bad ass spy in training for most of her life. So it's safe to say she could kill me and no one would even notice.
That's how super secret bad ass they all are.
With all this power comes the drama though. Reagan is kind of sick of dropping everything like a flaming hot potato and moving on to their next secret life. Making friends? Hard as fudge when you have to disappear with .23 second notice. Playing sports? Ha - good luck. By the time she steps foot on a try out field.. she has to move.
Long story short, life isn't all rainbows and sunshine for her. She wants to have a normal life but she also knows that her joining the family business is all her parents want for her. After a huge fight, where words were said that can't be taken back, shit basically hits the fan. Parents are kidnapped. People are attacked. The whole works guys.
What's Reagan gonna do? Not sit down and wait for more shit to hit the fan. Nope she goes on a mission to save her parents and gets in a whole lot of trouble with the secret organization. A lot goes down and some tears (and blood) are shed.
I'm not sure what's going to happen in the next book because I never made it past this one. But I'm sure it will revolve around revenge. Which, yes, I'm game. Bring it on.
__________________________________
Actual rating: 3.5
You Don't Know My Name was pretty interesting to read. Once I saw the cover, I was kind of intrigued. Then I read the synopsis and I was a little bit more intrigued.
Reagan was an entertaining and likable character. She's a teenage super spy and one hundred percent awesome and bad ass. Of course there's something in her way: her next door neighbor. At that point, I was totally down for a next door neighbor kind of romance. However, I didn't really see Reagan as the girl next door type. Nah, she just seemed to whine a lot.
Okay, yes I was definitely all over the place with Reagan. Sometimes she was so bad ass but then she would annoy the shit out of me. Then there was Luke, who I absolutely loved. He was the next door neighbor. If I got more of him and less of Reagan whining I would've loved this book a lot more.
Overall, the story was entertaining enough. It was fast paced to keep my interests. I just wish Reagan was a bad ass spy the entire time instead of being boy crazy and obsessed.
I'm pretty sure my opinion on You Don't Know My Name did a little upgrade. Still leaving the rating though because it's just a little bit higher than 3.5 at the moment.
In it, you will meet Reagan. There's really no point mentioning her last name because she doesn't even go by that anymore. Or at least she hasn't for a long ass time. Due to parents being super secret bad ass spies, she moves around a lot because of what they do. I'm going to include her into this little situation because she's been a super secret bad ass spy in training for most of her life. So it's safe to say she could kill me and no one would even notice.
That's how super secret bad ass they all are.
With all this power comes the drama though. Reagan is kind of sick of dropping everything like a flaming hot potato and moving on to their next secret life. Making friends? Hard as fudge when you have to disappear with .23 second notice. Playing sports? Ha - good luck. By the time she steps foot on a try out field.. she has to move.
Long story short, life isn't all rainbows and sunshine for her. She wants to have a normal life but she also knows that her joining the family business is all her parents want for her. After a huge fight, where words were said that can't be taken back, shit basically hits the fan. Parents are kidnapped. People are attacked. The whole works guys.
What's Reagan gonna do? Not sit down and wait for more shit to hit the fan. Nope she goes on a mission to save her parents and gets in a whole lot of trouble with the secret organization. A lot goes down and some tears (and blood) are shed.
I'm not sure what's going to happen in the next book because I never made it past this one. But I'm sure it will revolve around revenge. Which, yes, I'm game. Bring it on.
__________________________________
Actual rating: 3.5
You Don't Know My Name was pretty interesting to read. Once I saw the cover, I was kind of intrigued. Then I read the synopsis and I was a little bit more intrigued.
Reagan was an entertaining and likable character. She's a teenage super spy and one hundred percent awesome and bad ass. Of course there's something in her way: her next door neighbor. At that point, I was totally down for a next door neighbor kind of romance. However, I didn't really see Reagan as the girl next door type. Nah, she just seemed to whine a lot.
Okay, yes I was definitely all over the place with Reagan. Sometimes she was so bad ass but then she would annoy the shit out of me. Then there was Luke, who I absolutely loved. He was the next door neighbor. If I got more of him and less of Reagan whining I would've loved this book a lot more.
Overall, the story was entertaining enough. It was fast paced to keep my interests. I just wish Reagan was a bad ass spy the entire time instead of being boy crazy and obsessed.
June 18, 2016
Holy intense, Batman! My heart was basically pounding out of my chest for the entire final third of the book and for about an hour after I finished reading.
Both the beginning and ending of YOU DON'T KNOW MY NAME set my heart racing, while the middle made it dissolve into a mushy mess. I am a complete sucker for BFF love stories, and Reagan and Luke were just too adorable for words.
One of my favourite things about this book was the anxiety and panic attacks Reagan has to deal with throughout the book. Most spy stories just completely skip over how terrifying and traumatic it must be to spend most of your life worried that someone will capture and kill you. I love that this story explored that side of it--and did it well!
Definitely read this one if you want a riveting story to set your heart pounding… and melting, too.
Both the beginning and ending of YOU DON'T KNOW MY NAME set my heart racing, while the middle made it dissolve into a mushy mess. I am a complete sucker for BFF love stories, and Reagan and Luke were just too adorable for words.
One of my favourite things about this book was the anxiety and panic attacks Reagan has to deal with throughout the book. Most spy stories just completely skip over how terrifying and traumatic it must be to spend most of your life worried that someone will capture and kill you. I love that this story explored that side of it--and did it well!
Definitely read this one if you want a riveting story to set your heart pounding… and melting, too.
November 14, 2018
2.5 Stars
Great for fans of Ally Carter and Robin Benway.
This read really young (like middle grade) until the last 10% when the violence and language picked up. There was a twist at the end I wasn’t expecting in a YA book, and though the rest of the book wasn’t bad, I think I was just too old for it. Most of the time I got annoyed with Reagan’s behavior.
Great for fans of Ally Carter and Robin Benway.
This read really young (like middle grade) until the last 10% when the violence and language picked up. There was a twist at the end I wasn’t expecting in a YA book, and though the rest of the book wasn’t bad, I think I was just too old for it. Most of the time I got annoyed with Reagan’s behavior.
March 6, 2020
Full Review on The Candid Cover
4.5 Stars
As a fan of any spy-related book out there, I knew I would love You Don’t Know My Name before I even picked it up. This intense thriller starts off with a bang and never loses the momentum. I loved the main character’s strength and sensitivity and the more complex and serious aspects of the book. I am sure that everyone will love this believable story!
You Don’t Know My Name is a fast-paced thriller about a girl who is a member of a secret society and must rescue her parents who have been kidnapped. I loved the concept of a secret agency and reading about not only the intense battle scenes, but also the extensive security measures. I also appreciated how Kristen Orlando has made sure that everything about the Black Angels is logical and believable, which can really make or break a book for me. If you are a fan of spy thrillers, you will definitely love this book!
Reagan is such a brave and badass main character. She’s not afraid to break the rules and do whatever it takes to save her parents. What I especially loved about Reagan is how she is portrayed as a real and relatable character. She never had a choice regarding her life as a Black Angel and dreads having to move away and using yet another fake name. Her sensitivity added a lot to the book and made it that much more enjoyable to read.
One of my favourite things about You Don’t Know My Name is how serious it actually is. This isn’t just a book about fighting and executing heists, as it may seem. Reagan has to make a lot of tough choices throughout the book, such as leading the life her parents do or following her own dream. There is also a big theme of family and the lengths a daughter would go to to see her parents again. I feel like these aspects make the book even more complex and I enjoyed being able to relate to the story more because of them.
You Don’t Know My Name is a spy thriller that contains a strong yet sensitive main character. Although the book may seem simple, there are some pretty big themes and aspects that bring so much to the story. I would definitely recommend this book, especially to fans of authors like Ally Carter.
4.5 Stars
As a fan of any spy-related book out there, I knew I would love You Don’t Know My Name before I even picked it up. This intense thriller starts off with a bang and never loses the momentum. I loved the main character’s strength and sensitivity and the more complex and serious aspects of the book. I am sure that everyone will love this believable story!
You Don’t Know My Name is a fast-paced thriller about a girl who is a member of a secret society and must rescue her parents who have been kidnapped. I loved the concept of a secret agency and reading about not only the intense battle scenes, but also the extensive security measures. I also appreciated how Kristen Orlando has made sure that everything about the Black Angels is logical and believable, which can really make or break a book for me. If you are a fan of spy thrillers, you will definitely love this book!
Reagan is such a brave and badass main character. She’s not afraid to break the rules and do whatever it takes to save her parents. What I especially loved about Reagan is how she is portrayed as a real and relatable character. She never had a choice regarding her life as a Black Angel and dreads having to move away and using yet another fake name. Her sensitivity added a lot to the book and made it that much more enjoyable to read.
One of my favourite things about You Don’t Know My Name is how serious it actually is. This isn’t just a book about fighting and executing heists, as it may seem. Reagan has to make a lot of tough choices throughout the book, such as leading the life her parents do or following her own dream. There is also a big theme of family and the lengths a daughter would go to to see her parents again. I feel like these aspects make the book even more complex and I enjoyed being able to relate to the story more because of them.
You Don’t Know My Name is a spy thriller that contains a strong yet sensitive main character. Although the book may seem simple, there are some pretty big themes and aspects that bring so much to the story. I would definitely recommend this book, especially to fans of authors like Ally Carter.
February 6, 2017
***I received an ARC of this through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.***
Today, February 2, 2017, is the day I officially give up on trying to read this book.
DNF ~20%
I've struggled with trying to read this since I got the ARC from Goodreads back in November, but I can't do it anymore.
The little bit of the book I made it through read like a 5 year old writing a grocery list. And then there was one character (don't ask me her name, tbh I don't remember the names of anyone from the book) who was clearly only there to be the sex crazed teenager. Which is a shitty stereotype in and of itself, but it's even worse when that's the ONLY Latinx character in the cast. She was only on page in order to be described wearing a skirt short enough that you could see up it when she sat in the cafeteria, and to be slutshamed. Then she was only mentioned once more to, again, be slutshamed. I don't know how much more of that is in the novel since I didn't read any further, but I sincerely doubt it stops since none of the other characters seemed to think there was a problem with any of this.
So, yeah. I'm done. Wish I hadn't bothered to read the little bit I had.
Today, February 2, 2017, is the day I officially give up on trying to read this book.
DNF ~20%
I've struggled with trying to read this since I got the ARC from Goodreads back in November, but I can't do it anymore.
The little bit of the book I made it through read like a 5 year old writing a grocery list. And then there was one character (don't ask me her name, tbh I don't remember the names of anyone from the book) who was clearly only there to be the sex crazed teenager. Which is a shitty stereotype in and of itself, but it's even worse when that's the ONLY Latinx character in the cast. She was only on page in order to be described wearing a skirt short enough that you could see up it when she sat in the cafeteria, and to be slutshamed. Then she was only mentioned once more to, again, be slutshamed. I don't know how much more of that is in the novel since I didn't read any further, but I sincerely doubt it stops since none of the other characters seemed to think there was a problem with any of this.
So, yeah. I'm done. Wish I hadn't bothered to read the little bit I had.
April 3, 2017
This book was a real surprise for me and that is because it has been a while since I've read a 'spy-like' book. The ones I do remember reading were terribly slow and they spent to much time hiding the MC's true identity from parents and/or friends or vice versa. I'm looking at you Palace of Spies. Either way it hasn't deterred me from trying to read others with this theme because I do enjoy spy movies from time to time. I am glad I continued with this book.
I've been using the term spy a lot in this review when in all honesty Reagan and her family are not spies. Her parents are team members to a Black Ops group called the Black Angels working in the United States government and Reagan is a legacy child raised and trained to join its ranks once she is 18. I loved this concept of a family in this line of work together. The idea of balancing the danger and home life was interesting to me. Like Reagan waking up in the morning to practice Krav Maga with her mom or sharp shooting with her dad before school was a regular thing for her LOL. What a way to start the morning.
The pacing of this book was amazing. Surprising even, as we are dumped straight into the action before we knew the names of our MC's parents. I loved it. Reagan, our MC, is smart, creative and lethal ( just like her parents) but still has some teenage angst to her. It made getting to know her feel more genuine. Like she didn't just wake up one day whipping ass and taking names. I also enjoyed her parents and I liked how they were flawed and not superhero perfect. There was one part in the story where Reagan calls her parents out on something and she is very frank about her feelings on things without being childish and I found that refreshing too.
The love interest is so adorably nerdy and incredibly supportive. I continuously rooted for them to be together even when Reagan would try to keep her distance. Then when he basically proclaims that he will follow her to the ends of the earth, he does. This dude is a rock and he is a perfect fit for Reagan.
The other 'family' member that was really great was Aunt Sam as Reagan knew her during her younger years. Sam is a member of the Black Angels but a close family friend to Reagan and her parents. She becomes more like a big sister to Reagan and she is always looking out for her. She is equally smart and badass and a great support to Reagan as well especially after a particular incident right at the beginning of the book.
It concludes on a critical point but not necessarily a cliffhanger. This is good because although I am excited to read the sequel when it comes out, I don't need to be ripping out my hair with fret. The only things would have made this a 5 star read for me would have been to make it slightly longer and to make the ending a little more polished. Either way I am intrigued so I will be back for more.
Happy Reading
Jo
I've been using the term spy a lot in this review when in all honesty Reagan and her family are not spies. Her parents are team members to a Black Ops group called the Black Angels working in the United States government and Reagan is a legacy child raised and trained to join its ranks once she is 18. I loved this concept of a family in this line of work together. The idea of balancing the danger and home life was interesting to me. Like Reagan waking up in the morning to practice Krav Maga with her mom or sharp shooting with her dad before school was a regular thing for her LOL. What a way to start the morning.
The pacing of this book was amazing. Surprising even, as we are dumped straight into the action before we knew the names of our MC's parents. I loved it. Reagan, our MC, is smart, creative and lethal ( just like her parents) but still has some teenage angst to her. It made getting to know her feel more genuine. Like she didn't just wake up one day whipping ass and taking names. I also enjoyed her parents and I liked how they were flawed and not superhero perfect. There was one part in the story where Reagan calls her parents out on something and she is very frank about her feelings on things without being childish and I found that refreshing too.
The love interest is so adorably nerdy and incredibly supportive. I continuously rooted for them to be together even when Reagan would try to keep her distance. Then when he basically proclaims that he will follow her to the ends of the earth, he does. This dude is a rock and he is a perfect fit for Reagan.
The other 'family' member that was really great was Aunt Sam as Reagan knew her during her younger years. Sam is a member of the Black Angels but a close family friend to Reagan and her parents. She becomes more like a big sister to Reagan and she is always looking out for her. She is equally smart and badass and a great support to Reagan as well especially after a particular incident right at the beginning of the book.
It concludes on a critical point but not necessarily a cliffhanger. This is good because although I am excited to read the sequel when it comes out, I don't need to be ripping out my hair with fret. The only things would have made this a 5 star read for me would have been to make it slightly longer and to make the ending a little more polished. Either way I am intrigued so I will be back for more.
Happy Reading
Jo
June 24, 2016
I loved this book! Reagan's strength, her (HOT!) relationship with Luke, her fears and hopes for her future, and the pressures she's under are all so well developed. Suspenseful and compelling. I can't wait for the sequel.
Read
January 10, 2017In short: fast-paced and gripping, but felt a little flat to me as well, with not a lot of nuance in plot and character development.
Reagan's parents are a members of a super-secret organization called the Black Angels that swoops in and handles stuff like kidnappings and hostage situations. (Not sure if they are mercenaries or more like black ops. The book does mention the Special Activities Division of the CIA, so maybe they are government-affiliated. Anyone? Enlighten me in comments...)
The story starts with a bang, making it clear that Reagan and her parents are in danger and have to move and reinvent their lives yet again. The the pace slows down as the book tries hard to make Reagan relatable. Yes, she's trained in martial arts and target practice, but she's also a "normal" teen who hates the fact that she has to move constantly. She both worries about and resents her parents.
Though there's suspense, the plot is pretty straightforward. They're in danger, stuff happens, Reagan is told to stay safe but of course sneaks in to help out. It's tough to make a teenager with SWAT team skills seem realistic, but this book does a decent job.
This was the book equivalent of a fast paced action movie: enjoyable in the moment, but didn't make a lasting impression.
For fans of Also Known As series, Gallagher Girls, etc.
Read more of my reviews on YA Romantics or follow me on Bloglovin
FTC Disclosure: Thanks to the publisher for providing a free advance copy of this book for me to review. If you are a regular reader of my reviews, you know that getting a free book does not necessarily make me like it!
Reagan's parents are a members of a super-secret organization called the Black Angels that swoops in and handles stuff like kidnappings and hostage situations. (Not sure if they are mercenaries or more like black ops. The book does mention the Special Activities Division of the CIA, so maybe they are government-affiliated. Anyone? Enlighten me in comments...)
The story starts with a bang, making it clear that Reagan and her parents are in danger and have to move and reinvent their lives yet again. The the pace slows down as the book tries hard to make Reagan relatable. Yes, she's trained in martial arts and target practice, but she's also a "normal" teen who hates the fact that she has to move constantly. She both worries about and resents her parents.
Though there's suspense, the plot is pretty straightforward. They're in danger, stuff happens, Reagan is told to stay safe but of course sneaks in to help out. It's tough to make a teenager with SWAT team skills seem realistic, but this book does a decent job.
This was the book equivalent of a fast paced action movie: enjoyable in the moment, but didn't make a lasting impression.
For fans of Also Known As series, Gallagher Girls, etc.
Read more of my reviews on YA Romantics or follow me on Bloglovin
FTC Disclosure: Thanks to the publisher for providing a free advance copy of this book for me to review. If you are a regular reader of my reviews, you know that getting a free book does not necessarily make me like it!
July 30, 2016
Kristen Orlando's YOU DON'T KNOW MY NAME built to a sizzling intensity that had me biting my nails and turning pages so, so fast (and even inspired me to do some terribly executed push-ups—suffice it to say I was *quite* impressed with main character Reagan’s endurance/strength/skills).
I loved the relationships in this book: Reagan's never been able to settle anywhere, and she's finally in a place where she hopes to stay and grow roots with the people she loves—but the life she was born into is fundamentally at odds with that. To protect herself, and everyone she loves, she has to keep everything real a secret. The tension there, that struggle between I want something real with these people—and want to be true to myself and …but if my secret gets out, we might ALL be at risk was a great complement to the intense action at the forefront of the plot.
Reagan's drive to protect the people she loves, even though she's not sure this is the sort of life she loves, made for a compelling, exciting read. I'm biting my nails all over again just *thinking* of the ending—can't wait to read what Kristen Orlando writes next!
I loved the relationships in this book: Reagan's never been able to settle anywhere, and she's finally in a place where she hopes to stay and grow roots with the people she loves—but the life she was born into is fundamentally at odds with that. To protect herself, and everyone she loves, she has to keep everything real a secret. The tension there, that struggle between I want something real with these people—and want to be true to myself and …but if my secret gets out, we might ALL be at risk was a great complement to the intense action at the forefront of the plot.
Reagan's drive to protect the people she loves, even though she's not sure this is the sort of life she loves, made for a compelling, exciting read. I'm biting my nails all over again just *thinking* of the ending—can't wait to read what Kristen Orlando writes next!
August 21, 2016
I went into this book expecting a fun spy story, but by the novel's end I was tense and torn and totally heartbroken. Seventeen-year-old MC Reagan's parents are Black Angels -- super secret spies who go out on dangerous missions and change their identities at a moment's notice. That means Reagan, too, has to pick up and move, often in the middle of the night, leaving her fledging friendships -- not to mention a piece of herself-- behind. Thanks to a childhood spent training in martial arts and weaponry and foreign languages, Reagan's expected to become a Black Angel herself, but she's questioning her presumed future thanks to her most recent group of friends -- cute JROTC cadet Luke, in particular. But when Reagan gets tangled up in one of her parents' missions and is forced to put her training to use, her life changes irrevocably. Author Kristen Orlando does such an amazing job capturing the many facets of Reagan's life, including the sweet romance she and Luke are developing, the anxiety she experiences thanks to her intense lifestyle, her complicated relationship with her parents, and the tragic rescue-mission-gone-wrong in Columbia. Definitely pick You Don't Know My Name up of you're into unflinching novels that'll set your heart racing.
September 30, 2016
The “YA Spy Thriller” is a grossly underrepresented genre, so I was thrilled to get my hands on an ARC of YOU DON’T KNOW MY NAME. And let me just say, it totally delivered. This book is a kinetic, action-packed thrill ride, with pulse-pounding twists framing a surprisingly sweet and compelling romance. Reagan is a great protagonist, at once badass and vulnerable, selling both the elite Black-Angel-To-Be and the teen girl trying to define who she is. I burned through this book in one night, staying up way-too-late to find out how it ended. Check it out!
June 6, 2016
This book was so much fun. I gobbled it up in one sitting! You will HAVE to keep turning the page to see what happens next with Reagan and her black ops parents and her relationship with Luke. (I totally have a book crush on him now.) It would make a great movie-especially the manure scene (ewww!).
February 7, 2017
Review originally posted on Mostly YA Lit:
Review: You Don't Know My Name by Kristen Orlando
I came into You Don't Know My Name hoping for an Ally Carter like spy story. And knowing Swoon Reads, I expected a fast-paced book with a lot of romance. This book is definitely not Ally Carter, but it does do an okay job with the whole "normal girl who is secretly a spy" idea.
I liked Reagan and her friendships, and I enjoyed the romance with her neighbour Luke. I also appreciated that the author took her time showing us Reagan's teen life and what she leaves behind every time her spy family has to move away from a place. The book masquerades as a cute contemporary for a long time. It was a really clever way to lull the reader into submission. It helped make the transition from high school to action/mission that much more of a contrast.
While most of the book was predictable, the back third of You Don't Know was definitely earned and pretty shocking. There's a marked change in the speed of the writing. I was actually surprised by how one character's arc played out, which I really appreciated - it's hard to fool me! The author was not afraid to go to some really dark places with the story.
I think where You Don't Know My Name fell down for me was in writing - there was a ton of telling and not showing, especially with Reagan's emotions. I really wanted her to just act and for us to figure out why she was doing things a certain way. But the author seemed intent on spelling out the meaning of everything. There was no subtlety to the book, and that was frustrating, given that Reagan is supposed to be an amazing liar/spy.
The Final Word:
Overall, I enjoyed You Don't Know My Name. It was a quick read, and pretty light. I would probably recommend it to younger readers who aren't afraid of going darker or more violent. I'm on the fence on whether I'll pick up the second book - there is more story here for sure, but I'm not sure the writing is for me.
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YOU DON'T KNOW MY NAME is out now in bookstores. Will you be reading it? Are you a fan of spy books? Are you okay with violent reads? Let me know in the comments!
Review: You Don't Know My Name by Kristen Orlando
I came into You Don't Know My Name hoping for an Ally Carter like spy story. And knowing Swoon Reads, I expected a fast-paced book with a lot of romance. This book is definitely not Ally Carter, but it does do an okay job with the whole "normal girl who is secretly a spy" idea.
I liked Reagan and her friendships, and I enjoyed the romance with her neighbour Luke. I also appreciated that the author took her time showing us Reagan's teen life and what she leaves behind every time her spy family has to move away from a place. The book masquerades as a cute contemporary for a long time. It was a really clever way to lull the reader into submission. It helped make the transition from high school to action/mission that much more of a contrast.
While most of the book was predictable, the back third of You Don't Know was definitely earned and pretty shocking. There's a marked change in the speed of the writing. I was actually surprised by how one character's arc played out, which I really appreciated - it's hard to fool me! The author was not afraid to go to some really dark places with the story.
I think where You Don't Know My Name fell down for me was in writing - there was a ton of telling and not showing, especially with Reagan's emotions. I really wanted her to just act and for us to figure out why she was doing things a certain way. But the author seemed intent on spelling out the meaning of everything. There was no subtlety to the book, and that was frustrating, given that Reagan is supposed to be an amazing liar/spy.
The Final Word:
Overall, I enjoyed You Don't Know My Name. It was a quick read, and pretty light. I would probably recommend it to younger readers who aren't afraid of going darker or more violent. I'm on the fence on whether I'll pick up the second book - there is more story here for sure, but I'm not sure the writing is for me.
-----
YOU DON'T KNOW MY NAME is out now in bookstores. Will you be reading it? Are you a fan of spy books? Are you okay with violent reads? Let me know in the comments!
April 29, 2022
You Don’t Know My Name was okay. The plot was enjoyable for the most part, especially in the second half, but I was frustrated by how often I had to suspend my belief. You cannot convince me that the CIA would ever use two teenagers on a mission. I do not care what the circumstances were or their desperation level. It was beyond ridiculous. One of them had no training whatsoever! Without training, you would be such a hindrance to the mission. Even without taking how psychologically underprepared you’d be into consideration, the fact that you didn't know any of the tactics or protocols would be enough.
The characters were okay too. I liked Luke. He was honestly the saving grace of the whole book. He was sweet, affectionate, and just genuine. Reagan, on the other hand, had her moments. I didn’t really connect to her on a personal note but her relationship with her parents was so authentic. It nailed so many things about growing up in a strict household. I loved the fact that the book mentioned that her parents' behaviour was borderline abusive. It called out Reagan’s parents for behaving in certain ways that adults like to pretend are not problematic.
Also:
• The first half was riddled with slut-shaming and girl hate
• I was impressed that the author didn't shy away from addressing Reagan's trauma
• Hopefully, it will continue to keep that a part of the narrative in the sequels
➸ Trigger warnings for .
Blog • Trigger Warning Database • Twitter • Instagram
The characters were okay too. I liked Luke. He was honestly the saving grace of the whole book. He was sweet, affectionate, and just genuine. Reagan, on the other hand, had her moments. I didn’t really connect to her on a personal note but her relationship with her parents was so authentic. It nailed so many things about growing up in a strict household. I loved the fact that the book mentioned that her parents' behaviour was borderline abusive. It called out Reagan’s parents for behaving in certain ways that adults like to pretend are not problematic.
Also:
• The first half was riddled with slut-shaming and girl hate
• I was impressed that the author didn't shy away from addressing Reagan's trauma
• Hopefully, it will continue to keep that a part of the narrative in the sequels
➸ Trigger warnings for .
Blog • Trigger Warning Database • Twitter • Instagram
July 14, 2016
I was so lucky to get my sticky mitts on an advance copy of this book, and I finished it in record time - what a thrill-ride! Kristen Orlando really knows how to write suspense and action, and there's lots of both in here. But still, there is a lot of very moving questioning, self-doubt and fear too, unlike some other teen spy novels. And of course there's the love interest... yup, that really works too!
I really think that teen readers who came through the excellent Gallagher Girls series when they were younger will love this book (and the one that comes after it too!), but although it has the same sort of clever, well-trained, courageous heroine, it is so much more than a fun middle-school romp. If the Gallagher Girls were allowed to mature, and were forced to face real-world crime and terror, as well as high school dramas and romances, then I'm sure they'd have become Black Angels too!
And even if you are new to teen spy thrillers, you'll still love it - just make sure your door is locked and there's a box of tissues close before you begin!
I really think that teen readers who came through the excellent Gallagher Girls series when they were younger will love this book (and the one that comes after it too!), but although it has the same sort of clever, well-trained, courageous heroine, it is so much more than a fun middle-school romp. If the Gallagher Girls were allowed to mature, and were forced to face real-world crime and terror, as well as high school dramas and romances, then I'm sure they'd have become Black Angels too!
And even if you are new to teen spy thrillers, you'll still love it - just make sure your door is locked and there's a box of tissues close before you begin!
September 12, 2016
You Don't Know My Name is a thrill ride of a novel that will get your heart pounding in two ways -- from the adrenaline rush as you read about Reagan as she puts Black Angels training and skills to use; and then your heart will also pound from the anticipation of the romance between Reagan and ROTC cadet Luke as the heat ignites between these two high schoolers! I loved the romantic elements AND the spy themes and can't wait for book two. My hope is that in book two there will be a surprise about something that happened in the end that I didn't really want to happen though! You never know and you can always hope! Black Angels are some serious butt-kickers and can usually get out of any situations, so I'm HOPING! If you read the book, you'll know what I mean! This is a great YA for fans of all spy thrilling reads!
August 15, 2016
The perfect combination of suspense and love interest kept me reading for hours on end. I couldn’t put it down!! Can’t wait for the next book!
February 1, 2018
4 Stars!
I really enjoyed this book, another that is completely out of my "usual" reads genres.
RTC
I really enjoyed this book, another that is completely out of my "usual" reads genres.
RTC
November 18, 2016
PHEW! Well, you know a book is good when you immediately reach out to the author during and after reading. You also know a book is good when you immediately go add it to your Amazon list and pre-order it, even though you have already read it.
A promising, action packed beginning to a new series from a debut (I checked a million times online because this book is THAT good) author, "You Don't Know My Name" had EVERYTHING I love in a book:
-strong female characters
-good role models
-action, action, ACTION
-well-written lines
-a twinge of romance
-at least one well-developed character that you can identify with
and -general excitement.
From the beginning, I was hooked. This is different than anything I've ever read before - in a very good way. Raised by two secret operatives for the US government, Reagan is fully-trained, lethal, intelligent, and witty - AND not sure if that is what she wants for her life. She's grown up having to change her identity, moving with only a 'go-bag', and looking over her shoulder. When she finally finds a place and people she wants to settle down with, Reagan begins to question her parents' plan for her life and the sacrifices she (and her possible future children) would have to make if she became a Black Angel.
The characterization is strong. You can tell who is saying what and the exact voice they would be using. The dad had me laughing; the mom had me pumping my fist in the air and cheering... and Reagan herself is a great narrator and main character. She is relatable but also a total BA. She is the kind of girl I want my daughter to look up to. Luke (the boy next door) is interesting but I wonder what will become of him in the future novels. What knowledge he DOES have contributes to Reagan's missions, but it seems like she is always pushing him out of the way or ignoring him to survive these life and death events. I'm just not sure a guy who isn't rough and tumble could realistically be her match - so I am definitely staying tuned on this relationship!
Then, the book makes a hard left and you're frantically trying to hold onto the roof of a speeding car carrying away all those you held dear. I was biting my nails and saying things like, 'oh no, honey child! You get out of there RIGHT NOW!' I can't talk about the details (obviously! I want you to experience it for yourself!), but I will say it is worth every millisecond you spend reading. Although I was emotionally drained and battered by the end, I cannot wait for book two!
Someone please purchase the movie rights to this book and bring on Kristen Orlando to make this into a screenplay! The YA community needs a heroine to rally behind and Reagan Hillis fits the bill...is..... (Hillis-billis-hehe).
If you like James Patterson, "Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick", and action packed stories, this is for you!
A promising, action packed beginning to a new series from a debut (I checked a million times online because this book is THAT good) author, "You Don't Know My Name" had EVERYTHING I love in a book:
-strong female characters
-good role models
-action, action, ACTION
-well-written lines
-a twinge of romance
-at least one well-developed character that you can identify with
and -general excitement.
From the beginning, I was hooked. This is different than anything I've ever read before - in a very good way. Raised by two secret operatives for the US government, Reagan is fully-trained, lethal, intelligent, and witty - AND not sure if that is what she wants for her life. She's grown up having to change her identity, moving with only a 'go-bag', and looking over her shoulder. When she finally finds a place and people she wants to settle down with, Reagan begins to question her parents' plan for her life and the sacrifices she (and her possible future children) would have to make if she became a Black Angel.
The characterization is strong. You can tell who is saying what and the exact voice they would be using. The dad had me laughing; the mom had me pumping my fist in the air and cheering... and Reagan herself is a great narrator and main character. She is relatable but also a total BA. She is the kind of girl I want my daughter to look up to. Luke (the boy next door) is interesting but I wonder what will become of him in the future novels. What knowledge he DOES have contributes to Reagan's missions, but it seems like she is always pushing him out of the way or ignoring him to survive these life and death events. I'm just not sure a guy who isn't rough and tumble could realistically be her match - so I am definitely staying tuned on this relationship!
Then, the book makes a hard left and you're frantically trying to hold onto the roof of a speeding car carrying away all those you held dear. I was biting my nails and saying things like, 'oh no, honey child! You get out of there RIGHT NOW!' I can't talk about the details (obviously! I want you to experience it for yourself!), but I will say it is worth every millisecond you spend reading. Although I was emotionally drained and battered by the end, I cannot wait for book two!
Someone please purchase the movie rights to this book and bring on Kristen Orlando to make this into a screenplay! The YA community needs a heroine to rally behind and Reagan Hillis fits the bill...is..... (Hillis-billis-hehe).
If you like James Patterson, "Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick", and action packed stories, this is for you!
February 7, 2017
One thing that YA seems to lack is spy novels. And You Don’t Know My Name filled that void in my heart, the need to read a book with a deadly main character, a mission gone wrong, and a villain seeking revenge. Are you ready for a book that will give you a kickass protagonist, a cute boy next door, and a glorious ship with some spying on the side? Then You Don’t Know My Name is the book for you.
I was gripped from the very start. Reagan’s story fascinates me because I’ve always wanted an introspective view of being a spy, and this one felt so realistic, especially from a teenager's view. Kristen Orlando did a great job painting Reagan’s background and showing how much her parents’ vocations really affected her life. It was also nice to see Reagan really asserting herself and openly sharing her feelings and desires with her parents.
Reagan’s calculated nature perfectly matched her sweet personality. She’s equal parts loyal and sweet as she is cunning and deadly. She was easy to sympathize with and like because she wasn’t the unemotional and bland shell that most spies assume for their covers.
Kristen’s writing was easy to follow and so fun! I’ve had my issues with Swoon Reads books in the past, but this one was exceptional. The writing was great and there was the perfect amount of swoonage. Overall I really enjoyed this addictive novel, and I can't wait to see what's to come in the next book!
I was gripped from the very start. Reagan’s story fascinates me because I’ve always wanted an introspective view of being a spy, and this one felt so realistic, especially from a teenager's view. Kristen Orlando did a great job painting Reagan’s background and showing how much her parents’ vocations really affected her life. It was also nice to see Reagan really asserting herself and openly sharing her feelings and desires with her parents.
Reagan’s calculated nature perfectly matched her sweet personality. She’s equal parts loyal and sweet as she is cunning and deadly. She was easy to sympathize with and like because she wasn’t the unemotional and bland shell that most spies assume for their covers.
Kristen’s writing was easy to follow and so fun! I’ve had my issues with Swoon Reads books in the past, but this one was exceptional. The writing was great and there was the perfect amount of swoonage. Overall I really enjoyed this addictive novel, and I can't wait to see what's to come in the next book!
February 15, 2018
¡Logré terminarlo! qué bien me siento el haber terminado un libro que no me gustó mucho. Deberían darme un trofeo o algo así jaja.
La primicia de este libro es buena, llamativa, diría yo. El asunto de una chica siendo entrenada para convertirse en agente me gusta, soy muy fan de ese tipo de películas; por tal motivo estaba entusiasmada por leerlo. Pero no todo fue bonito, pocas cosas fueron bonitas de este libro.
Estoy muy segura que hubiera disfrutado este libro cuando tenía quince años. No voy a mentir, sí lo disfruté pero hubo momentos en los cuales me parecía muy irreal, muy infantil, ñoño. Los diálogos entres los personajes se sentían forzados. El romance es tan poco creíble... y la protagonista no tiene nada de especial. Ni siquiera muestra sus "habilidades", meh. Lo único bueno es que se lee rápido y el final, aunque predecible, tiene acción. Fin.
La primicia de este libro es buena, llamativa, diría yo. El asunto de una chica siendo entrenada para convertirse en agente me gusta, soy muy fan de ese tipo de películas; por tal motivo estaba entusiasmada por leerlo. Pero no todo fue bonito, pocas cosas fueron bonitas de este libro.
Estoy muy segura que hubiera disfrutado este libro cuando tenía quince años. No voy a mentir, sí lo disfruté pero hubo momentos en los cuales me parecía muy irreal, muy infantil, ñoño. Los diálogos entres los personajes se sentían forzados. El romance es tan poco creíble... y la protagonista no tiene nada de especial. Ni siquiera muestra sus "habilidades", meh. Lo único bueno es que se lee rápido y el final, aunque predecible, tiene acción. Fin.
April 16, 2017
This was a romantic, kick-ass spy book and I had a total blast reading it!
Reagan is a fantastic, complicated heroine and the clear star of the show. I really, really loved her growth in this. She’s truly kick-ass (the fight scenes/set pieces, you guys!), which was amazing, but I also feel like we got to know a lot about her and her feelings about the spy lifestyle that she’s been forced into. I really appreciated this, as I feel it gave the novel a lot of depth while still being so much fun.
And the romance was amazing and cute and just generally fantastic. I totally loved it.
All in all, this is a stand-out YA spy book with great characters and a really compelling romance. Also: THAT ENDING. I need book two like, right now.
Reagan is a fantastic, complicated heroine and the clear star of the show. I really, really loved her growth in this. She’s truly kick-ass (the fight scenes/set pieces, you guys!), which was amazing, but I also feel like we got to know a lot about her and her feelings about the spy lifestyle that she’s been forced into. I really appreciated this, as I feel it gave the novel a lot of depth while still being so much fun.
And the romance was amazing and cute and just generally fantastic. I totally loved it.
All in all, this is a stand-out YA spy book with great characters and a really compelling romance. Also: THAT ENDING. I need book two like, right now.
June 27, 2016
I picked this up and finished it the same night. It was completely unputdownable. The book will appeal to older fans of The Gallagher Girls series, no question. The romance made the beginning and the action made the ending. Orlando effortlessly managed to play on so many different emotions and added a complexity to spy books you don't often see.
Now to fangirl for a minute. Luke and Reagan!!! I went all heart-eye-emoji for like 150 pages, and I would gladly read double that of scenes of just the two of them together. My word, they were delightful.
Read this book.
Now to fangirl for a minute. Luke and Reagan!!! I went all heart-eye-emoji for like 150 pages, and I would gladly read double that of scenes of just the two of them together. My word, they were delightful.
Read this book.
June 21, 2016
This book was exciting from start to finish. Reagan is a compelling character with an equally compelling history. I was rooting for her every step of the way.
December 1, 2016
The idea of a teen spy intrigued me right away. I didn't think it would be as intense as it turned out to be.
Reagan is the daughter of Black Angels. They are an elite group specially trained to rescue and protect. She has been training her entire life to join them. But now, at 17 and a senior in high school, she realizes she may want MORE. And that more is a life of her own choosing — a 'normal' life that allows for friendship, love, and an everyday job. The story focuses mainly on Reagan and her daily life. School, friends... and the boy next door (Luke) who she's grown to have feelings for. But she realizes it can never be; not if her course to the Black Angels stays intact.
I loved so many things about this story. We get glimpses into a secret life: weapons, panic rooms, training. We get to see that as cool as it all seems, sometimes the sacrifices might not be worth it. We get to see the reality of a spy's life; how it's not all cool and collected, but filled with anxiety and worry. We get to see how relationships can never develop because they are never meant to last. And, we see the pain of losing someone who sees the real us.
In the beginning, I wasn't sure what exactly would happen. I assumed Reagan would still be torn in deciding between the secret life and a normal one. I thought the romance aspect between her and Luke would be a big focus by the end. But oh, it's so much crazier and more intense than that! As Reagan begins to notice people and things feeling off, you almost become hyperaware that something HUGE is going down. But when it's nearing the end of the story, you're pretty sure it's not going to happen this time around. But it does. And it's so good! I admit parts were probably a bit far-fetched for people to believe, but it's fiction and the story is engaging. The last 20% or so had me on edge, glued to the pages.
You Don't Know My Name has the perfect blend of romance, relationships, suspense, thrill, and action for every reader. I was completely invested in these characters and their story. The ending still has my eyes bugging out of my head. I definitely need the sequel ASAP. Pick this one up on release day!
Reagan is the daughter of Black Angels. They are an elite group specially trained to rescue and protect. She has been training her entire life to join them. But now, at 17 and a senior in high school, she realizes she may want MORE. And that more is a life of her own choosing — a 'normal' life that allows for friendship, love, and an everyday job. The story focuses mainly on Reagan and her daily life. School, friends... and the boy next door (Luke) who she's grown to have feelings for. But she realizes it can never be; not if her course to the Black Angels stays intact.
I loved so many things about this story. We get glimpses into a secret life: weapons, panic rooms, training. We get to see that as cool as it all seems, sometimes the sacrifices might not be worth it. We get to see the reality of a spy's life; how it's not all cool and collected, but filled with anxiety and worry. We get to see how relationships can never develop because they are never meant to last. And, we see the pain of losing someone who sees the real us.
In the beginning, I wasn't sure what exactly would happen. I assumed Reagan would still be torn in deciding between the secret life and a normal one. I thought the romance aspect between her and Luke would be a big focus by the end. But oh, it's so much crazier and more intense than that! As Reagan begins to notice people and things feeling off, you almost become hyperaware that something HUGE is going down. But when it's nearing the end of the story, you're pretty sure it's not going to happen this time around. But it does. And it's so good! I admit parts were probably a bit far-fetched for people to believe, but it's fiction and the story is engaging. The last 20% or so had me on edge, glued to the pages.
You Don't Know My Name has the perfect blend of romance, relationships, suspense, thrill, and action for every reader. I was completely invested in these characters and their story. The ending still has my eyes bugging out of my head. I definitely need the sequel ASAP. Pick this one up on release day!
August 28, 2017
This is a Young Adult Spy/Suspense/Thriller/Action story. It is on a first person, single POV. We have Reagan, daughter of two very skilled Black Angel agents.
Black Angel, a bit of a lame name honestly, is a secret organization under the government who deals with assassins, terrorists and other things that the government tells them to do.
Reagan had trainings since she was a kid and is considered a prodigy of the Black Angel organization. She's been switching homes and her cover so many times that it seems to be normal.
But then she met Luke and things got complicated. She started to want a normal life.
The plot is okay. A bit slow on the pacing. Some unnecessary details that could have been trimmed. It was just okay.
Black Angel, a bit of a lame name honestly, is a secret organization under the government who deals with assassins, terrorists and other things that the government tells them to do.
Reagan had trainings since she was a kid and is considered a prodigy of the Black Angel organization. She's been switching homes and her cover so many times that it seems to be normal.
But then she met Luke and things got complicated. She started to want a normal life.
The plot is okay. A bit slow on the pacing. Some unnecessary details that could have been trimmed. It was just okay.
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