What do you think?
Rate this book
Luminous
As reality slips and time stands still, Consuela finds herself thrust into the world of the Flow. Removed from all she loves into this shifting world overlapping our own, Consuela quickly discovers she has the power to step out of her earthly skin and cloak herself in new ones-skins made from the world around her, crafted from water, fire, air. She is joined by other teens with extraordinary abilities, bound together to safeguard a world they can affect, but where they no longer belong.
When murder threatens to undo the Flow, the Watcher charges Consuela and elusive, attractive V to stop the killer. But the psychopath who threatens her new world may also hold the only key to Consuela's way home.
When murder threatens to undo the Flow, the Watcher charges Consuela and elusive, attractive V to stop the killer. But the psychopath who threatens her new world may also hold the only key to Consuela's way home.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2011
30 people are currently reading
5713 people want to read
About the author
Dawn Metcalf
8 books409 followersThe role of Dawn Metcalf will be played by the tall brunette in the off-the-shoulder, floor-length leather straitjacket. Makeup by Clinique, buckles by Jada Pinkett-Smith, hair by Jim Henson's Creature Shop.
I have no good excuse for the way I write. I lived in a normal, loving, suburban home, studied hard, went to college, went to graduate school, got married, had babies, and settled down in northern Connecticut. Despite this wholesome lifestyle, I've been clearly corrupted by fairy tales, puppet visionaries, British humour and graphic novels. As a result, I write dark, quirky, and sometimes humorous speculative fiction.
Review Policy: My review policy has changed. I am removing all comments and stars from Read books. If it's here, I liked it or loved it (3-5 stars). I brag about books I absolutely adore and share other wild opinions on my website, Officially Twisted at www.dawnmetcalf.com.
I have no good excuse for the way I write. I lived in a normal, loving, suburban home, studied hard, went to college, went to graduate school, got married, had babies, and settled down in northern Connecticut. Despite this wholesome lifestyle, I've been clearly corrupted by fairy tales, puppet visionaries, British humour and graphic novels. As a result, I write dark, quirky, and sometimes humorous speculative fiction.
Review Policy: My review policy has changed. I am removing all comments and stars from Read books. If it's here, I liked it or loved it (3-5 stars). I brag about books I absolutely adore and share other wild opinions on my website, Officially Twisted at www.dawnmetcalf.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
June 30, 2011
Initially I was attracted to this book because the cover was gorgeous. But as they say, you should never judge a book by its cover, and this book is no exception. Needless to say, I wasn't impressed. The idea, though strange at first, would have grown on me had it not been for the characters, the plot, and pretty much the entire story. The characters had no believability. The author created no sympathy for them, so when they began to get killed off, I really couldn't find it in myself to care. The main character is so beset with her self-consciousness that she doesn't seem to really comprehend just how strange her circumstances are, she just takes it all in stride. The only character with any depth is the evil antagonist. The love interest is very much a Edward-esque (Twilight) character. His attraction to Consuela seems to have no ground other than she is the protagonist. His words and actions are so cliche there were actually times I had to stop reading just to look at the book and think, are you freaking serious? How corny. My suspension of disbelief was nonexistent. I was constantly aware that I was reading a work of fiction, and a very poorly written one at that. It really seemed that the author was trying to live vicariously through her characters, and I hate that. The story itself was just really confusing. I never felt like I knew what was going on, what the Flow actually was, or why the hell it mattered. Though I understand this adds to the mystery of the story, it was so unclear that it took away from the very few positives the book offered. As if that wasn't bad enough, the ending was abrupt and felt unfinished. I would not recommend this book to anyone.
June 17, 2011
In a Sentence: Though Luminous can seem confusing and distant at times, it is an excellent example of Dawn Metcalf's natural flair for creativity and originality.
My Thoughts
Luminous is one of those books that I have a lot of mixed feelings about. On one hand, there were parts of the book that I absolutely loved. On the other hand, there were several elements that I found to be problematic. I think that Steph Su from Steph Su Reads, another blog on the Luminous blog tour, says it best in her review on Goodreads: "LUMINOUS is ambitious, and beautifully written, but at times it was a confusing and emotionally distant read for me." (You can also check out Steph's fantastic interview with author Dawn Metcalf by clicking HERE).
As Steph Su put so eloquently, Luminous, is, indeed, beautifully written. I imagine that Metcalf has spent a lot of time reading and/or studying poetry, because her prose style is almost lyrical in nature. Her many references to the famous Mexican poet Octavio Paz also suggest a deep familiarity with Hispanic culture and literature. This makes Luminous an intricately woven tale filled with a complex layering of themes and ideas. Furthermore, I absolutely loved how Metcalf tied in the concept of death in the story. While pursuing my minor in Spanish, several of my professors described death (from an Hispanic point of view) as something that is natural and an essential part of life, as opposed to the way death is often seen in the United States--as something that is horrible and fear-inducing.
Luminous is also one of those books that makes you think a lot about the way you perceive things in life. Perception is extremely subjective, after all, and Metcalf exploits this fact throughout the entirety of Luminous. The quotes included at the beginning of this chapter also tied in quite nicely...each seemed to sum up a particular theme or idea that was addressed in a certain part of the book.
In spite of all of the great things about this book, I did have two problems with Luminous. The first had to do with the characters. While I didn't necessarily find them to be poorly developed, I had an extremely difficult time connecting to them because they seemed so foreign to me. At times I felt like I was starting to feel that connection, but I felt like the sort-of bond that usually joins reader and character together in a book never completely solidified in Luminous.
The second issue I had was that I found Luminous to be extremely disorienting at times. I think that part of this was the author's intention, because this disorientation often mirrors the main character's own confusion in the story, but at times, this made me feel like I had missed something...like someone had randomly gone through the book and cut out random chapters. I never felt like I was getting the complete story, and that lessened my overall enjoyment of Luminous.
However, in spite of my criticisms, I still feel that Luminous is a valuable addition to the category of young adult books. Personally, I think we need more authors who are willing to step out on a limb and make their audiences think about what they're reading. Luminous is definitely a book for those who are looking for a little more substance in what they read.
My Thoughts
Luminous is one of those books that I have a lot of mixed feelings about. On one hand, there were parts of the book that I absolutely loved. On the other hand, there were several elements that I found to be problematic. I think that Steph Su from Steph Su Reads, another blog on the Luminous blog tour, says it best in her review on Goodreads: "LUMINOUS is ambitious, and beautifully written, but at times it was a confusing and emotionally distant read for me." (You can also check out Steph's fantastic interview with author Dawn Metcalf by clicking HERE).
As Steph Su put so eloquently, Luminous, is, indeed, beautifully written. I imagine that Metcalf has spent a lot of time reading and/or studying poetry, because her prose style is almost lyrical in nature. Her many references to the famous Mexican poet Octavio Paz also suggest a deep familiarity with Hispanic culture and literature. This makes Luminous an intricately woven tale filled with a complex layering of themes and ideas. Furthermore, I absolutely loved how Metcalf tied in the concept of death in the story. While pursuing my minor in Spanish, several of my professors described death (from an Hispanic point of view) as something that is natural and an essential part of life, as opposed to the way death is often seen in the United States--as something that is horrible and fear-inducing.
Luminous is also one of those books that makes you think a lot about the way you perceive things in life. Perception is extremely subjective, after all, and Metcalf exploits this fact throughout the entirety of Luminous. The quotes included at the beginning of this chapter also tied in quite nicely...each seemed to sum up a particular theme or idea that was addressed in a certain part of the book.
In spite of all of the great things about this book, I did have two problems with Luminous. The first had to do with the characters. While I didn't necessarily find them to be poorly developed, I had an extremely difficult time connecting to them because they seemed so foreign to me. At times I felt like I was starting to feel that connection, but I felt like the sort-of bond that usually joins reader and character together in a book never completely solidified in Luminous.
The second issue I had was that I found Luminous to be extremely disorienting at times. I think that part of this was the author's intention, because this disorientation often mirrors the main character's own confusion in the story, but at times, this made me feel like I had missed something...like someone had randomly gone through the book and cut out random chapters. I never felt like I was getting the complete story, and that lessened my overall enjoyment of Luminous.
However, in spite of my criticisms, I still feel that Luminous is a valuable addition to the category of young adult books. Personally, I think we need more authors who are willing to step out on a limb and make their audiences think about what they're reading. Luminous is definitely a book for those who are looking for a little more substance in what they read.
July 15, 2012
THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS! BUT I WILL SAY THIS: DON'T PASS ON THIS BOOK. IGNORE THE NEGATIVE REVIEWS. TURN OFF THE TV, GRAB A PILLOW AND A QUILT. ABOVE ALL ELSE, TAKE YOUR TIME WITH THIS BOOK. IMMERSE YOURSELF. DON'T READ DISTRACTED. ENJOY!
Now if you insist on reading ahead:
Luminous is the most original book that I have read in years. This is the only book on my book shelf (so far) that might rival the originality and creativity of the Wraeththu series by Storm Constantine. This is saying a lot being that I was completely absorbed by Ms. Constantine's imagination.
The prose contained in Luminous is very, very pretty - the events in Luminous read like a vivid dream. One of those God-smack type of dreams that you don't want to forget as you realize that you are waking up. Metcalf has a lyrical way with descriptive imagery. The concept of a 'mother-of-pearl' skeleton was breath-taking. I could picture it clearly, and deeply appreciated the way she re-imagined something that is traditionally viewed as macabre (a stripped skeleton) into a object of enviable beauty and freedom. If only we all had parallel universe hopping, iridescent skeletons!
I am not sure about the reviews here that claim confusion in keeping up with the plot. I wasn't confused at all. If anything the story raised more questions that made the story that much more enjoyable and interesting. As a reader that doesn't require each and every detail of the story resolved and tied up in a neat package, I enjoy constructive speculation. More pointedly, I enjoy a story that makes me say 'I wonder', but still makes sense. Luminous met my need for wonder, imagination, originality, lovely writing and as a bonus included a blossoming paranormal romance.
I really loved this book. I loved it so much that I have suggested it to teachers and professors for recreational reading and instructional use.
I hope that Ms. Metcalf is planning a sequel, because I would love to visit the world of The Flow at least one more time.
Now if you insist on reading ahead:
Luminous is the most original book that I have read in years. This is the only book on my book shelf (so far) that might rival the originality and creativity of the Wraeththu series by Storm Constantine. This is saying a lot being that I was completely absorbed by Ms. Constantine's imagination.
The prose contained in Luminous is very, very pretty - the events in Luminous read like a vivid dream. One of those God-smack type of dreams that you don't want to forget as you realize that you are waking up. Metcalf has a lyrical way with descriptive imagery. The concept of a 'mother-of-pearl' skeleton was breath-taking. I could picture it clearly, and deeply appreciated the way she re-imagined something that is traditionally viewed as macabre (a stripped skeleton) into a object of enviable beauty and freedom. If only we all had parallel universe hopping, iridescent skeletons!
I am not sure about the reviews here that claim confusion in keeping up with the plot. I wasn't confused at all. If anything the story raised more questions that made the story that much more enjoyable and interesting. As a reader that doesn't require each and every detail of the story resolved and tied up in a neat package, I enjoy constructive speculation. More pointedly, I enjoy a story that makes me say 'I wonder', but still makes sense. Luminous met my need for wonder, imagination, originality, lovely writing and as a bonus included a blossoming paranormal romance.
I really loved this book. I loved it so much that I have suggested it to teachers and professors for recreational reading and instructional use.
I hope that Ms. Metcalf is planning a sequel, because I would love to visit the world of The Flow at least one more time.
August 25, 2011
The imagery in LUMINOUS is insane. The strange beauty and wonder of the Flow...it's a new high point in creativity. For the first third of the book I was completely lost in the visuals. I'd love to see some visionary put this to screen. So much that is gorgeous and terrible.
But don't get completely lost in the Flow. The murder plot snuck up on me in the middle, and by the last quarter of the book, I was burning through pages.
Definitely an original experience, with characters not soon forgotten.
But don't get completely lost in the Flow. The murder plot snuck up on me in the middle, and by the last quarter of the book, I was burning through pages.
Definitely an original experience, with characters not soon forgotten.
June 2, 2011
LUMINOUS was…interesting. Okay, “interesting” might be a tad generous. LUMINOUS is ambitious, and beautifully written, but at times it was a confusing and emotionally distant read for me.
Dawn Metcalf’s writing is astounding, an awe-inspiring combination between the rhythmic hypnotism of freestyle poetry and deliciousness of rich and unusual prose. This is something I feel like I don’t see much of in current YA, that I wouldn’t mind seeing more of, these creative risks with writing style.
The concept of the Flow is very intriguing, and certainly unlike anything I’ve read. True to the whimsy of the writing style, the Flow is never fully explained, or at least is not explained in a way that solidifies its presence and purpose for me. Thus, my head was spinning for a great portion of the book, because I had never fully grasped the concept.
The same goes for the characters. LUMINOUS shifts between multiple characters’ points of view rather arbitrarily, making it so that the identity of the murderer is not long a secret. I would be alright with this, except that I felt like the murderer’s justification for his cold-blooded actions was only partially explored, and existed mostly in circular monologues declaiming his self-importance or the righteousness of his motives. Consuela did not feel as developed as she could’ve been, either. So she has this astounding new talent, and wants very much to return home to her family, but beyond that she did not seem to have much else to make her really “fill out” as a three-dimensional character. My lack of connection to the characters, along with the book’s uneven pacing—I was intrigued at the beginning, and then felt like things were dragging on and on—left me feeling a little “on the outside” of the story.
Still, LUMINOUS packs some powerful and thought-provoking themes, and may be extremely rewarding for the patient reader who likes the supernatural challenge. Check it out if it seems up your alley or if you want something different.
Dawn Metcalf’s writing is astounding, an awe-inspiring combination between the rhythmic hypnotism of freestyle poetry and deliciousness of rich and unusual prose. This is something I feel like I don’t see much of in current YA, that I wouldn’t mind seeing more of, these creative risks with writing style.
The concept of the Flow is very intriguing, and certainly unlike anything I’ve read. True to the whimsy of the writing style, the Flow is never fully explained, or at least is not explained in a way that solidifies its presence and purpose for me. Thus, my head was spinning for a great portion of the book, because I had never fully grasped the concept.
The same goes for the characters. LUMINOUS shifts between multiple characters’ points of view rather arbitrarily, making it so that the identity of the murderer is not long a secret. I would be alright with this, except that I felt like the murderer’s justification for his cold-blooded actions was only partially explored, and existed mostly in circular monologues declaiming his self-importance or the righteousness of his motives. Consuela did not feel as developed as she could’ve been, either. So she has this astounding new talent, and wants very much to return home to her family, but beyond that she did not seem to have much else to make her really “fill out” as a three-dimensional character. My lack of connection to the characters, along with the book’s uneven pacing—I was intrigued at the beginning, and then felt like things were dragging on and on—left me feeling a little “on the outside” of the story.
Still, LUMINOUS packs some powerful and thought-provoking themes, and may be extremely rewarding for the patient reader who likes the supernatural challenge. Check it out if it seems up your alley or if you want something different.
March 8, 2016
I had had such high hopes for this one. The cover is so pretty, I thought I would find a story I loved inside.
instead, I found an odd, disjointed story that just never caught my attention.
instead, I found an odd, disjointed story that just never caught my attention.
September 17, 2011
I've never outright hated a book, since I usually end up not reading it in the first place. This book, while I didn't hate it, did have some disturbing elements that I would rather not have to deal with ever again.
Consuela, the main character, has a disturbing power that creeped me out for the first forty pages. Shedding her "human" skin and becoming just her bones? Okay, even if you were okay with that, you've still got to admit that it's creepy. It's like, Halloween creepy.
I thought everything about this book was poorly written. I mean, the concept was unique, but the execution was lacking. The romance was lackluster and bland. The world was poorly developed and I never fully understood what it was about. And the girl on the cover looks Asian rather than the Mexican heritage that Consuela should have, but seems as if she does not. And the characters themselves - who are they again? I don't seem to remember anything striking about them. And that was just it; all of the characters were never developed, never given the special OOMF that makes readers want to remember forever.
I wouldn't really recommend this book, but its only appealing factor is its diversity. We have such a wide arrangement of ethnicities and talents for each character. It's only such a shame that we didn't see more to them than that.
Consuela, the main character, has a disturbing power that creeped me out for the first forty pages. Shedding her "human" skin and becoming just her bones? Okay, even if you were okay with that, you've still got to admit that it's creepy. It's like, Halloween creepy.
I thought everything about this book was poorly written. I mean, the concept was unique, but the execution was lacking. The romance was lackluster and bland. The world was poorly developed and I never fully understood what it was about. And the girl on the cover looks Asian rather than the Mexican heritage that Consuela should have, but seems as if she does not. And the characters themselves - who are they again? I don't seem to remember anything striking about them. And that was just it; all of the characters were never developed, never given the special OOMF that makes readers want to remember forever.
I wouldn't really recommend this book, but its only appealing factor is its diversity. We have such a wide arrangement of ethnicities and talents for each character. It's only such a shame that we didn't see more to them than that.
June 15, 2015
This is such a strange book, and I get why reviews seem to be so divided.
There is something very lyrical and beautiful about Metcalf's writing. And I can honestly say that I haven't seen anything like this novel before. I finished it a few days ago, and I can't get it out of my head. It makes you think about your place in the world, and the consequences that our actions have.
But the Flow and the people who live there seemed very distant. I felt like they were just there, and the Flow seemed like a very confusing place. It could have been described better, I think. I didn't really get a good sense of who anyone was or where she wanted it to go. As unique as it is, I felt like Metcalf could have done more with it, because I felt like I was on the outside, looking in.
But I still enjoyed it, and thought that it was very creative. I give it a 3 out of 5
There is something very lyrical and beautiful about Metcalf's writing. And I can honestly say that I haven't seen anything like this novel before. I finished it a few days ago, and I can't get it out of my head. It makes you think about your place in the world, and the consequences that our actions have.
But the Flow and the people who live there seemed very distant. I felt like they were just there, and the Flow seemed like a very confusing place. It could have been described better, I think. I didn't really get a good sense of who anyone was or where she wanted it to go. As unique as it is, I felt like Metcalf could have done more with it, because I felt like I was on the outside, looking in.
But I still enjoyed it, and thought that it was very creative. I give it a 3 out of 5
July 26, 2011
I had a hard time getting into this one. Luminous was very unique and different which is a plus in a world of young adult books where all too often it is the same story told over and over again. I had no clue where this story was going which is also a plus since so many books are so predictable.
Unfortunately I never really connected with any of the characters and at times was confused with how things worked in this strange world of the Flow. Reviews seem to be split on this one and I understand why. I can't bring myself to give it less than 3 stars because of originality and some very beautiful writing but for me this book was just ok.
A little strong language scattered throughout.
Unfortunately I never really connected with any of the characters and at times was confused with how things worked in this strange world of the Flow. Reviews seem to be split on this one and I understand why. I can't bring myself to give it less than 3 stars because of originality and some very beautiful writing but for me this book was just ok.
A little strong language scattered throughout.
April 25, 2011
I was drawn to this book by the beautiful cover and then read the synopsis and found it intriguing. I actually received an Advanced Reading Copy of it through Librarything's Early Reviewer Program. It was a very creative book and has some intriguing ideas in it; although at points the writing is a bit hard to follow.
Consuela finds a lump at the back of her neck and is worried about it. Her mother agrees that Consuela will go to the doctor if it is worse in the morning. Then Consuela finds that she can put her fingers into the lump and actually remove all of her skin; leaving her a glowing Skeleton. She finds she can makes new skins out of things like water and air. While experimenting she ends up meeting other teenagers with strange powers and finds herself part of the Flow. A serial killer is loose in the Flow and Consuela must figure out how to stop the killer, otherwise she may never have the chance to return home.
This was an odd book. It is very creative and has some really neat ideas in it. At times it is beautifully written and has some excellent imagery. At times though there were also things that didn't make sense. Why only teenagers in the Flow? Why was she able to talk to her mother when she got home in the beginning but not later?
The idea of the Flow is interesting, but I have to say it is a bit difficult for the reader to figure out what is going on at the beginning of the book. The reader needs to suspend disbelief and kind of just..well..go with the flow of the story. As the book went on I understood better the kind of "other place" the author was trying to create, but it did take some piecing together to get to that point.
The characters are intriguing. All of them have different powers and complex backgrounds. While I did find them interesting, they never really came alive for me. The book seemed more focused on what they could do in the Flow than on who they were and what they thought. This was complicated by the fact that there wasn't supposed to be much emotion in the Flow itself.
The story gets a bit creepy at points. The whole concept of Consuela peeling off her own skin weirded me out a bit, as did the fact she traipsed around as a skeleton. There were portions involving the serial killer that were also a bit unsettling; although they never got too scary for me.
The story ends well and in such a way that there could be more adventures involving Consuela, although I haven't heard anything about that. As for the author's writing style, I am a bit on the fence about it. Metcalf's writing has moments of beauty, but it also had times where things were kind of vague. It wasn't the easiest writing to read and you had to read it very slowly and carefully to make sure you understood what was happening.
Overall a very intriguing read. If you are interested in reading something unlike anything you've read before definitely pick this story up. The concepts of the Flow and how Consuela can makes skins out of organic matter are interesting. The story does get a bit creepy, but should be appropriate for young adult and older. The writing style wasn't my favorite and the characters weren't as engaging as I would have liked. Still this book was very original and interesting, so I would recommend it for people who want something a bit different.
Consuela finds a lump at the back of her neck and is worried about it. Her mother agrees that Consuela will go to the doctor if it is worse in the morning. Then Consuela finds that she can put her fingers into the lump and actually remove all of her skin; leaving her a glowing Skeleton. She finds she can makes new skins out of things like water and air. While experimenting she ends up meeting other teenagers with strange powers and finds herself part of the Flow. A serial killer is loose in the Flow and Consuela must figure out how to stop the killer, otherwise she may never have the chance to return home.
This was an odd book. It is very creative and has some really neat ideas in it. At times it is beautifully written and has some excellent imagery. At times though there were also things that didn't make sense. Why only teenagers in the Flow? Why was she able to talk to her mother when she got home in the beginning but not later?
The idea of the Flow is interesting, but I have to say it is a bit difficult for the reader to figure out what is going on at the beginning of the book. The reader needs to suspend disbelief and kind of just..well..go with the flow of the story. As the book went on I understood better the kind of "other place" the author was trying to create, but it did take some piecing together to get to that point.
The characters are intriguing. All of them have different powers and complex backgrounds. While I did find them interesting, they never really came alive for me. The book seemed more focused on what they could do in the Flow than on who they were and what they thought. This was complicated by the fact that there wasn't supposed to be much emotion in the Flow itself.
The story gets a bit creepy at points. The whole concept of Consuela peeling off her own skin weirded me out a bit, as did the fact she traipsed around as a skeleton. There were portions involving the serial killer that were also a bit unsettling; although they never got too scary for me.
The story ends well and in such a way that there could be more adventures involving Consuela, although I haven't heard anything about that. As for the author's writing style, I am a bit on the fence about it. Metcalf's writing has moments of beauty, but it also had times where things were kind of vague. It wasn't the easiest writing to read and you had to read it very slowly and carefully to make sure you understood what was happening.
Overall a very intriguing read. If you are interested in reading something unlike anything you've read before definitely pick this story up. The concepts of the Flow and how Consuela can makes skins out of organic matter are interesting. The story does get a bit creepy, but should be appropriate for young adult and older. The writing style wasn't my favorite and the characters weren't as engaging as I would have liked. Still this book was very original and interesting, so I would recommend it for people who want something a bit different.
November 14, 2011
I like to think of Luminous as a very unique piece of modern art-- you're either going to love it or hate it, and everyone is going to interpret it differently. Now, I actually fall on the side of people who loved this book-- I thought it was creative, different, kind of bizarre, and always surprising!
Consuela Chavez is just your typical teenager-- until one night while she's in the tub, she finds out that she has the ability to step out of her own skin-- quite literally, she can pull it off like she's taking off a sweater-- and put on new skins made of fire, air, and water. I know, kind of creepy, huh? Stepping out of her bathroom, Consuela finds herself sucked into "The Flow," a kind of alternate reality where others with special abilities like her exist in order to save people from untimely deaths. However, once in The Flow, Consuela has no way to get back out and go home. To make matters worse, people start mysteriously dying in The Flow, and Consuela is the only one who can stop the killer.
The best parts about this book were the concepts it presented and the mood it created for the reader. The entire story brings you into this dreamy, almost trance-like state, where it's difficult to tell which end is up. The ideas that it explores were very metaphysical, like, what is the purpose of life? What comes after death? What is the standard for morality? What makes a person good or bad? The thought-provoking questions underneath the layers of imagery and imagination of The Flow had me completely wrapped up in this book.
The one thing that made Luminous difficult to grasp was that the plot and the setting were not clearly defined-- I don't even know how to describe The Flow or what it really was, and the series of events that took place were very much like when you dream-- one minute you're there, the next you're inexplicable somewhere else. I liked how this really gave you the feeling that you were in a dream, but at the same time, it made it tricky to pinpoint exactly what was going on.
I had actually already read a few reviews for Luminous before I read it, so I had a pretty good idea of what the book would be like. Which is probably a good thing, because it's one of those books that is just so wacky and bizarre, that if I went in totally unsuspecting, my first reaction to Chapter 1 would probably have been: What the CRAP is going on!?! Haha but anyways, I knew going in that this book was going to be very different than any others I've yet read. I really did enjoy this book and thought that it was unexpected and creative.
Lea @ LC's Adventures in Libraryland
Consuela Chavez is just your typical teenager-- until one night while she's in the tub, she finds out that she has the ability to step out of her own skin-- quite literally, she can pull it off like she's taking off a sweater-- and put on new skins made of fire, air, and water. I know, kind of creepy, huh? Stepping out of her bathroom, Consuela finds herself sucked into "The Flow," a kind of alternate reality where others with special abilities like her exist in order to save people from untimely deaths. However, once in The Flow, Consuela has no way to get back out and go home. To make matters worse, people start mysteriously dying in The Flow, and Consuela is the only one who can stop the killer.
The best parts about this book were the concepts it presented and the mood it created for the reader. The entire story brings you into this dreamy, almost trance-like state, where it's difficult to tell which end is up. The ideas that it explores were very metaphysical, like, what is the purpose of life? What comes after death? What is the standard for morality? What makes a person good or bad? The thought-provoking questions underneath the layers of imagery and imagination of The Flow had me completely wrapped up in this book.
The one thing that made Luminous difficult to grasp was that the plot and the setting were not clearly defined-- I don't even know how to describe The Flow or what it really was, and the series of events that took place were very much like when you dream-- one minute you're there, the next you're inexplicable somewhere else. I liked how this really gave you the feeling that you were in a dream, but at the same time, it made it tricky to pinpoint exactly what was going on.
I had actually already read a few reviews for Luminous before I read it, so I had a pretty good idea of what the book would be like. Which is probably a good thing, because it's one of those books that is just so wacky and bizarre, that if I went in totally unsuspecting, my first reaction to Chapter 1 would probably have been: What the CRAP is going on!?! Haha but anyways, I knew going in that this book was going to be very different than any others I've yet read. I really did enjoy this book and thought that it was unexpected and creative.
Lea @ LC's Adventures in Libraryland
September 24, 2011
Have you ever come across a book that you simply didn't know how to sum up in a sentence? At least in terms of the feelings it evoked in you? Because that is what Luminous is to me.
It is very original. At least the premise and the mythos of the book - it is beyond bizarre but at the same time, I am not really sure whether the execution of such a novel idea was as it should have been. I feel as though this could easily have been high literature. There would have been more room for gradual development, more space for words because this book severely needed to stop and explain itself. This is not to say that I didn't enjoy it because I did. I just had the recurring feeling that the characters, the situations and the world building could have been fleshed out just a little bit more. About a third way into the novel, I was thoroughly confused. And not in a "I need to read more so I know what's happening" kind of way but more of a "what the hell is happening? what am I reading?" part.
The idea of having different skins and exchanging one for the other - the themes it engages and the subtext is amazing. I could spend three hours discussing this book in an academic setting. If you read it closely, there's this eerie atmosphere to it where the multiple metamorphoses of the main character is juxtaposed by the stagnant setting of her "home base." And the world she inhabits is also more as though the characters are promenading around in someone's gnarled conscious (which I guess is what it is, linked conscious of several different people).
The romance bit was sudden, strange and while it was not unbelievable, its presence was not very necessary. I felt like the romance was forced because the audience, the readers, would be expecting something. But I wish they had let the main couple develop their friendship first.
The book is gorgeous, the idea is very original, I just didn't feel that the execution of the book lived up to its premise. It was almost there and since it is a debut, and it also may be the first in a series, I'm not sure, there will be a chance to (probably) revisit the world with, hopefully, stronger writing, stronger clearer writing. I'd say give this a try if only for the experience of reading about a main character who loves walking around in her skeleton.
It is very original. At least the premise and the mythos of the book - it is beyond bizarre but at the same time, I am not really sure whether the execution of such a novel idea was as it should have been. I feel as though this could easily have been high literature. There would have been more room for gradual development, more space for words because this book severely needed to stop and explain itself. This is not to say that I didn't enjoy it because I did. I just had the recurring feeling that the characters, the situations and the world building could have been fleshed out just a little bit more. About a third way into the novel, I was thoroughly confused. And not in a "I need to read more so I know what's happening" kind of way but more of a "what the hell is happening? what am I reading?" part.
The idea of having different skins and exchanging one for the other - the themes it engages and the subtext is amazing. I could spend three hours discussing this book in an academic setting. If you read it closely, there's this eerie atmosphere to it where the multiple metamorphoses of the main character is juxtaposed by the stagnant setting of her "home base." And the world she inhabits is also more as though the characters are promenading around in someone's gnarled conscious (which I guess is what it is, linked conscious of several different people).
The romance bit was sudden, strange and while it was not unbelievable, its presence was not very necessary. I felt like the romance was forced because the audience, the readers, would be expecting something. But I wish they had let the main couple develop their friendship first.
The book is gorgeous, the idea is very original, I just didn't feel that the execution of the book lived up to its premise. It was almost there and since it is a debut, and it also may be the first in a series, I'm not sure, there will be a chance to (probably) revisit the world with, hopefully, stronger writing, stronger clearer writing. I'd say give this a try if only for the experience of reading about a main character who loves walking around in her skeleton.
July 7, 2011
3.5 Stars
This book was all over the place for me. I was confused, interested, intrigued, captivated, and hopeful for Consuela - Bones - and the others in the Flow. I felt like I was riding a roller coaster while reading. I love the premise and think it is absolutely original, but at the very beginning of Luminous, I was confused. I wasn't really sure what was happening to Consuela and how she was able to make a skin out of water. Was this real? Was this her perception? Did she really go down the drain? Don't get me wrong, very cool idea! I just wish Consuela was a little more dumb-founded and surprised at her ability. The concept of Consuela putting her fingers through the back of her skull and pulling her skin over her head came too easy/naturally for her. If it were me, I would be screaming and freaking out asking for my Mother....just me. By page 15, she states, "This is who I am....The rest is just skin."
As Consuela accepts her new skeletal status, we are introduced to an array of really interesting characters with even more interesting names. V, Wish, Yad, and others live in The Flow (a place where spirits reside in order to help/save the living) and each is vastly different. I enjoyed learning about them and their special abilities and what they were drawn to. Each character had a bit of foggy mystery to them and I was glad to see that they weren't to fleshed out (no pub intended). Every few chapters or so, we get a glimpse of the killer as he murders members of The Flow. Some of these scenes give us a taste about who the killer is and what he is capable of. Sometimes, the scenes left me a tab bit puzzled as I tried to jump back into Consuela's story line. Regardless, the cast of characters and the whodunit question kept me in the book. The ending is a little predictable, but I was okay with that. The underlying Dorothy theme - you could do it all along - greats us in the end and I personally welcomed it.
Even though I had a few issues, I can see where a young adult would absolutely love this story. The cover alone will get a girl (and hopefully boy) to pick it up, and the originality of the story line will get teens to buy/checkout. I know my teenager would love this book and she will be a little more forgiving about the confusing opening scenes.
3.5 Stars
This book was all over the place for me. I was confused, interested, intrigued, captivated, and hopeful for Consuela - Bones - and the others in the Flow. I felt like I was riding a roller coaster while reading. I love the premise and think it is absolutely original, but at the very beginning of Luminous, I was confused. I wasn't really sure what was happening to Consuela and how she was able to make a skin out of water. Was this real? Was this her perception? Did she really go down the drain? Don't get me wrong, very cool idea! I just wish Consuela was a little more dumb-founded and surprised at her ability. The concept of Consuela putting her fingers through the back of her skull and pulling her skin over her head came too easy/naturally for her. If it were me, I would be screaming and freaking out asking for my Mother....just me. By page 15, she states, "This is who I am....The rest is just skin."
As Consuela accepts her new skeletal status, we are introduced to an array of really interesting characters with even more interesting names. V, Wish, Yad, and others live in The Flow (a place where spirits reside in order to help/save the living) and each is vastly different. I enjoyed learning about them and their special abilities and what they were drawn to. Each character had a bit of foggy mystery to them and I was glad to see that they weren't to fleshed out (no pub intended). Every few chapters or so, we get a glimpse of the killer as he murders members of The Flow. Some of these scenes give us a taste about who the killer is and what he is capable of. Sometimes, the scenes left me a tab bit puzzled as I tried to jump back into Consuela's story line. Regardless, the cast of characters and the whodunit question kept me in the book. The ending is a little predictable, but I was okay with that. The underlying Dorothy theme - you could do it all along - greats us in the end and I personally welcomed it.
Even though I had a few issues, I can see where a young adult would absolutely love this story. The cover alone will get a girl (and hopefully boy) to pick it up, and the originality of the story line will get teens to buy/checkout. I know my teenager would love this book and she will be a little more forgiving about the confusing opening scenes.
3.5 Stars
November 2, 2011
Although this book turned out good it got off to a rocky start. The author rather dumps you from the "real" world into the Flow, and I felt very disjointed and confused over what was happening and where we were. I think it was done to emphasize the disorientation and confusion of Consuela, but it isn't done in a way that made me identify with the character. Instead I wanted to put the book down. It was just too fast, plopping us into the fantasy world without explanation or reason, and the contrivance is only emphasized by Consuela’s placid acceptance rather than questioning of the issue.
I endured, though, and as the author got around to explaining what happened and why I started to enjoy the world and the characters, although I never really felt as if I understood it or them. In order to maintain the mystery of the plot the characters all have hidden agendas and ulterior motives, and you're always questioning why they're doing what they're doing, but you're also questioning why you care. There are a lot of characters that seem to be put in place so that they can die to amplify the plot, but because you didn't ever identify with them it doesn't work as well as it could.
However, even with these major flaws there is something about the book that is absorbing and makes you want to keep reading despite all the incertainty and confusion. Perhaps it is the artful dealing with the subject matter: what happens when we die, and what about people who seem to be *dead* but are still functionally alive? What do they experience? What do they feel? Add in an overlay of murder mystery and a dash of romantic subplot and the question is very deep as well as entertaining. This gift extends even beyond the ending, turning an ending that is simply ambiguous into a cliffhanger mystery that keeps you thinking about the book even after you're done with it. Although this book wasn't altogether my cup of tea I can see many people who would be able to look past its flaws and fall completely in love with the great existential mystery that is presented in this book.
I received this book free from Librarything as an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
I endured, though, and as the author got around to explaining what happened and why I started to enjoy the world and the characters, although I never really felt as if I understood it or them. In order to maintain the mystery of the plot the characters all have hidden agendas and ulterior motives, and you're always questioning why they're doing what they're doing, but you're also questioning why you care. There are a lot of characters that seem to be put in place so that they can die to amplify the plot, but because you didn't ever identify with them it doesn't work as well as it could.
However, even with these major flaws there is something about the book that is absorbing and makes you want to keep reading despite all the incertainty and confusion. Perhaps it is the artful dealing with the subject matter: what happens when we die, and what about people who seem to be *dead* but are still functionally alive? What do they experience? What do they feel? Add in an overlay of murder mystery and a dash of romantic subplot and the question is very deep as well as entertaining. This gift extends even beyond the ending, turning an ending that is simply ambiguous into a cliffhanger mystery that keeps you thinking about the book even after you're done with it. Although this book wasn't altogether my cup of tea I can see many people who would be able to look past its flaws and fall completely in love with the great existential mystery that is presented in this book.
I received this book free from Librarything as an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
Read
June 17, 2011Reviewed by http://urbanfantasyinvestigations.blo...
LUMINOUS is yet another book I just could not get into and could not finish. I'm sad to say that it lost me just a few chapters in. It was extremely strange and it first lost me when Consuela found out she could take off her skin, Yes you heard me right she took off her skin so she was nothing but bones and she thought it was fantastic. Yeah I just could not get into the world that Dawn was writing about. The story what I read of it was fast paced and seemed to have some interesting characters in a high fantasy world, it just wasn't for me. If it sounds like something you would like I definitely recommend borrowing a copy from your local library.
LUMINOUS is yet another book I just could not get into and could not finish. I'm sad to say that it lost me just a few chapters in. It was extremely strange and it first lost me when Consuela found out she could take off her skin, Yes you heard me right she took off her skin so she was nothing but bones and she thought it was fantastic. Yeah I just could not get into the world that Dawn was writing about. The story what I read of it was fast paced and seemed to have some interesting characters in a high fantasy world, it just wasn't for me. If it sounds like something you would like I definitely recommend borrowing a copy from your local library.
March 21, 2018
Originally reviewed for YA Books Central: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
A brave and elaborately imagined tale—laden with unforgettable imagery.
One thing I can say for certain about Luminous… I’ve never encountered anything quite like it. Metcalf fuses an eloquent knack for description with a unique blend of urban-fantasy, cultural mysticism, and horror. The basic premise alone is intriguing—the idea of there being a suspended state somewhere between life and death, and that the rare occupiers of this realm could be given guardian angel-like assignments—has more potential hooks than a literary tackle box. Add to that the enrichment of a plus-sized Hispanic heroine, and I was enthralled from the get-go.
There were a few taste-based downsides, however.
*The romance felt too close to inexplicable insta-love for this readers preference, and the lack of getting-to-know-you intimacy made it overall difficult to buy into.
*The characters, with the exception of the villain, all felt emotionally disengaged. As a result, when the body count stared to rise, I didn’t really feel the concern or turmoil I probably should have. I wanted to relate to and feel invested in them—especially Consuela. But I found I kept reading to learn would happen, rather than because I cared about the ensemble cast or their relationships.
*The worldbuilding and transitions were frequently confusing. I was never quite sure of the rules and/or limitations of the place where we spend nearly the entire book. And while that kept things from feeling predictable, it also raised aspects that felt a little too convenient to the plot.
I almost never comment on or care about cover art, but in this case, I have to make an exception. The cover, while lovely, doesn’t do this book any favors. I’d argue it’s actually a detriment. The feel is so pristine and light fantasy, you'd never suspect the macabre detour the story takes. And the blurb on the back doesn't even half-prepare you for the extent of the ethereal day-of-the-dead strangeness you are about to encounter.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVED the originality of this concept—the atmospheric miasma of the story itself. But the book simply doesn’t deliver on the impression the cover seemed to be promising.
I’d like to stress, this is definitely an author I plan to keep an eye on. It’s been several years now since this book’s release. I’d love to see what she might do given a little more time and a different kind of storyline.
A brave and elaborately imagined tale—laden with unforgettable imagery.
One thing I can say for certain about Luminous… I’ve never encountered anything quite like it. Metcalf fuses an eloquent knack for description with a unique blend of urban-fantasy, cultural mysticism, and horror. The basic premise alone is intriguing—the idea of there being a suspended state somewhere between life and death, and that the rare occupiers of this realm could be given guardian angel-like assignments—has more potential hooks than a literary tackle box. Add to that the enrichment of a plus-sized Hispanic heroine, and I was enthralled from the get-go.
There were a few taste-based downsides, however.
*The romance felt too close to inexplicable insta-love for this readers preference, and the lack of getting-to-know-you intimacy made it overall difficult to buy into.
*The characters, with the exception of the villain, all felt emotionally disengaged. As a result, when the body count stared to rise, I didn’t really feel the concern or turmoil I probably should have. I wanted to relate to and feel invested in them—especially Consuela. But I found I kept reading to learn would happen, rather than because I cared about the ensemble cast or their relationships.
*The worldbuilding and transitions were frequently confusing. I was never quite sure of the rules and/or limitations of the place where we spend nearly the entire book. And while that kept things from feeling predictable, it also raised aspects that felt a little too convenient to the plot.
I almost never comment on or care about cover art, but in this case, I have to make an exception. The cover, while lovely, doesn’t do this book any favors. I’d argue it’s actually a detriment. The feel is so pristine and light fantasy, you'd never suspect the macabre detour the story takes. And the blurb on the back doesn't even half-prepare you for the extent of the ethereal day-of-the-dead strangeness you are about to encounter.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVED the originality of this concept—the atmospheric miasma of the story itself. But the book simply doesn’t deliver on the impression the cover seemed to be promising.
I’d like to stress, this is definitely an author I plan to keep an eye on. It’s been several years now since this book’s release. I’d love to see what she might do given a little more time and a different kind of storyline.
June 27, 2011
First can I say I'm in total love with this cover? I just adore it. I also have to say that I enjoyed the first part of this book. We find Consuela in a dressing room trying on jeans not made for her body. Anyone with a booty (which is now in fashion thanks to J Lo and Beyonce) can sympathize with this scene. However, this scene is important although we don't know it until much later. For Consuela, it is about self-acceptance.
The flow is a place where most of this book resides. There is a Watcher who helps others in Consuela's situation understand and get used to what has happened to them. There is also a cleaner. One who tends to the flow which cleans it of the darkness we carry within all of us and is left behind. The rest of the characters are those who use the flow to go from place to place when they feel a strong pull. This pull leads them to people on the brink and need to be saved for one reason or another. Each person brings with them their history and mythologies which becomes a personal power to help others. This urge cannot be denied.
Oh I loved this book. I enjoy mythologies of all kinds and Consuela's is closely related to her personal mythology of Dia de Los Muertos. For others it may just be a childhood story that stayed with them to the flow. Whatever it is I enjoyed finding out how it manifests. Consuela's magic was my favorite and was the most powerful of all.
My only complaint is minor. Yes, the world can be confusing and sometimes seemed to jump a bit too much. However, the world of the flow is supposed to be confusing so I feel that this is minor. However, still doesn't make me want to understand more about that world and become frustrating at times. I also was a bit frustrated with the story of the killer. The killer is eliminating those like Consuela. Although we know who he is, we follow others as they learn, sometimes too late. It was frustrating that they just couldn't get a head of him. It might have been better if we only suspected but did not know.
I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I think it was the mythology that had me love this book. So, those that like cultural mythologies will enjoy this book. And yes... there is a touch of bittersweet romance within. :) I refuse to say more as I will spoil much but I admit to have questions that I cannot discuss. Guess that is an *evil laugh* on me! :(
I was given this ARC from Penguin and Goodreads First Reads Program and no compensation for my review was given.
The flow is a place where most of this book resides. There is a Watcher who helps others in Consuela's situation understand and get used to what has happened to them. There is also a cleaner. One who tends to the flow which cleans it of the darkness we carry within all of us and is left behind. The rest of the characters are those who use the flow to go from place to place when they feel a strong pull. This pull leads them to people on the brink and need to be saved for one reason or another. Each person brings with them their history and mythologies which becomes a personal power to help others. This urge cannot be denied.
Oh I loved this book. I enjoy mythologies of all kinds and Consuela's is closely related to her personal mythology of Dia de Los Muertos. For others it may just be a childhood story that stayed with them to the flow. Whatever it is I enjoyed finding out how it manifests. Consuela's magic was my favorite and was the most powerful of all.
My only complaint is minor. Yes, the world can be confusing and sometimes seemed to jump a bit too much. However, the world of the flow is supposed to be confusing so I feel that this is minor. However, still doesn't make me want to understand more about that world and become frustrating at times. I also was a bit frustrated with the story of the killer. The killer is eliminating those like Consuela. Although we know who he is, we follow others as they learn, sometimes too late. It was frustrating that they just couldn't get a head of him. It might have been better if we only suspected but did not know.
I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I think it was the mythology that had me love this book. So, those that like cultural mythologies will enjoy this book. And yes... there is a touch of bittersweet romance within. :) I refuse to say more as I will spoil much but I admit to have questions that I cannot discuss. Guess that is an *evil laugh* on me! :(
I was given this ARC from Penguin and Goodreads First Reads Program and no compensation for my review was given.
June 30, 2011
Review:
Luminous was definitely a... different read. There were a few things that I found were well done with the novel... however, there were also many things that made this novel just okay.
Dawn Metcalf has beautiful writing. It is very rhythmic and poetic like. It reminded me of poetry, just in prose form. It really was one of a kind, and I did enjoy that part of the novel.
On the other hand, I found many of the characters to be distant. I couldn't really connect with them. While Metcalf's writing had me knowing what they were feeling or thinking, I couldn't connect with them and feel like I was in their place, going along with what they were thinking, which is something that I look for in a novel, no matter what it is.
I also felt as if the story could have been described better. With Metcalf creating her own world for this story, it really needs to be described and be described well so readers can understand it. I felt as if it was not, and the idea of the Flow sometimes left me confused. There were also some scenes that I felt were not described very well that also left me confused and having to go back and re-read over and over to understand.
I also felt as if the pacing was a little slow. I didn't feel as if the story got moving until the last hundred pages, which I did find that I enjoyed.
Even though this review makes it sound like I am bashing the novel, I did enjoy the idea of it. If I could have connected with the characters more, this novel would have been astounding. There is a lot of promise for Dawn Metcalf as an author. She is very creative and comes up with interesting ideas.
Short Review:
Promising premise and idea, just not described well and hard to connect with characters.
Grade: C.
Luminous was definitely a... different read. There were a few things that I found were well done with the novel... however, there were also many things that made this novel just okay.
Dawn Metcalf has beautiful writing. It is very rhythmic and poetic like. It reminded me of poetry, just in prose form. It really was one of a kind, and I did enjoy that part of the novel.
On the other hand, I found many of the characters to be distant. I couldn't really connect with them. While Metcalf's writing had me knowing what they were feeling or thinking, I couldn't connect with them and feel like I was in their place, going along with what they were thinking, which is something that I look for in a novel, no matter what it is.
I also felt as if the story could have been described better. With Metcalf creating her own world for this story, it really needs to be described and be described well so readers can understand it. I felt as if it was not, and the idea of the Flow sometimes left me confused. There were also some scenes that I felt were not described very well that also left me confused and having to go back and re-read over and over to understand.
I also felt as if the pacing was a little slow. I didn't feel as if the story got moving until the last hundred pages, which I did find that I enjoyed.
Even though this review makes it sound like I am bashing the novel, I did enjoy the idea of it. If I could have connected with the characters more, this novel would have been astounding. There is a lot of promise for Dawn Metcalf as an author. She is very creative and comes up with interesting ideas.
Short Review:
Promising premise and idea, just not described well and hard to connect with characters.
Grade: C.
September 7, 2012
This book is weird,not good weird, but creepy weird.Or no thats not it either because creepy weird can be good. It was just horrific.
It begins with our maincharacter (Consuela) trying on clothes and lamenting about how all the clothes seems to be made for skinny girls.
At this point I a thinking "ok this girl has some serious selfesteem issues" Why would she go to a store that has only small sizes? Thats like masochistic behavior. Its like it was included only so that the author could make a point of it.
Anyhow,after nearly fainting in the shop,and thinking she noticed something strange in a mirror,she decides to go home and freshen up a bit (all normal so far) until she notices there is a hole in her necks skin...and proceeds to pull off her skin. All of it! Like her skin was a suit or something.
Normal reaction for me and every other sane person would at this point have been to:
a)Scream
b)Go into catatonic state
c)Faint from the pure shock of having no skin
Not to calmly observe yourself in the mirror and laugh in pure joy.I skimmed a bit after that in horrified fascination. But I just couldnt keep reading til the end.My desire to read this book was completely destroyed by what had happened.
Maybe its really a wonderful once you get into it...but I am too freaked out to read any more of it.
And seeing as I dont believe in torturing myself I decided to put this aside and call it a DNF.
It begins with our maincharacter (Consuela) trying on clothes and lamenting about how all the clothes seems to be made for skinny girls.
At this point I a thinking "ok this girl has some serious selfesteem issues" Why would she go to a store that has only small sizes? Thats like masochistic behavior. Its like it was included only so that the author could make a point of it.
Anyhow,after nearly fainting in the shop,and thinking she noticed something strange in a mirror,she decides to go home and freshen up a bit (all normal so far) until she notices there is a hole in her necks skin...and proceeds to pull off her skin. All of it! Like her skin was a suit or something.
Normal reaction for me and every other sane person would at this point have been to:
a)Scream
b)Go into catatonic state
c)Faint from the pure shock of having no skin
Not to calmly observe yourself in the mirror and laugh in pure joy.I skimmed a bit after that in horrified fascination. But I just couldnt keep reading til the end.My desire to read this book was completely destroyed by what had happened.
Maybe its really a wonderful once you get into it...but I am too freaked out to read any more of it.
And seeing as I dont believe in torturing myself I decided to put this aside and call it a DNF.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2012
Imagine a world where certain "special" people can leave their bodies. Imagine removing your soul and moving through space and time to a place called "the flow." That's what Consuela aka Bones can do, as well as a few other people.
Bones is kind of like an angel, she can slip out of her skin, her body going into a self induced coma and she can change her soul into ANYTHING! She can become air, water, fire, animals and even more. The possibilities are endless for Bones.
When Bones feels a pull, she MUST go and rescue a life that is in need. A life about to be cut too short. She does her job and it makes her feel great but when other people, people she considers friends are being killed in "the flow", she decides to brave up and try to find the killer. With a bit of time, patience and some of her "flow friends" rooting her on, she will see what is possible in this world and the next. She will see she belongs to both and she will save them.
Luminous is that kind of story, full of adventure, confusion and many other things that grab a readers attention and pull them in. Whether you are pulled into the book or "the flow" this is one story you need to read to believe!
Bones is kind of like an angel, she can slip out of her skin, her body going into a self induced coma and she can change her soul into ANYTHING! She can become air, water, fire, animals and even more. The possibilities are endless for Bones.
When Bones feels a pull, she MUST go and rescue a life that is in need. A life about to be cut too short. She does her job and it makes her feel great but when other people, people she considers friends are being killed in "the flow", she decides to brave up and try to find the killer. With a bit of time, patience and some of her "flow friends" rooting her on, she will see what is possible in this world and the next. She will see she belongs to both and she will save them.
Luminous is that kind of story, full of adventure, confusion and many other things that grab a readers attention and pull them in. Whether you are pulled into the book or "the flow" this is one story you need to read to believe!
August 5, 2011
Luminous is unlike any other book I've read.
This is a hard review for me to write, there are things about this story that I was enamored with but at the same time there were other aspects of the story that just fell flat for me.
The creativity of the story was amazing... the concept of the Flow, it's inhabitants, those aspects of the story where intriguing. Metcalf had a very distinguished writing style, one that I haven't encountered in any previous young adult novels, it was as creative as the story it was telling.... very different.
I didn't exactly understand what the Flow was... and as a result I found myself confused durning most of the story... confused and not really caring what happened as a result. The characters, were interesting, but they lacked the development that I needed to feel connected to them. Instead of feeling engrossed in the story, I felt cut off. I didn't have that drive to find out what was going to transpire.
Although Luminous didn't completely work for me, I think that it will definitely appeal to other readers.
This is a hard review for me to write, there are things about this story that I was enamored with but at the same time there were other aspects of the story that just fell flat for me.
The creativity of the story was amazing... the concept of the Flow, it's inhabitants, those aspects of the story where intriguing. Metcalf had a very distinguished writing style, one that I haven't encountered in any previous young adult novels, it was as creative as the story it was telling.... very different.
I didn't exactly understand what the Flow was... and as a result I found myself confused durning most of the story... confused and not really caring what happened as a result. The characters, were interesting, but they lacked the development that I needed to feel connected to them. Instead of feeling engrossed in the story, I felt cut off. I didn't have that drive to find out what was going to transpire.
Although Luminous didn't completely work for me, I think that it will definitely appeal to other readers.
August 26, 2015
This is probably one of the most singularly unique storylines I've encountered in a long time. That being said, be warned: Do not read yourself to sleep with this book, even if it's just a catnap: YOU WILL HAVE BIZARRE DREAMS AFTERWARDS.
Metcalf's skill at worldcrafting is delicious, dark, and surreal.
Seriously. Read this book.
Metcalf's skill at worldcrafting is delicious, dark, and surreal.
Seriously. Read this book.
February 25, 2011
Just not good enough. Weird and compelling, fast moving, but not that good.
July 14, 2017
Goodreads Synopsis:
As reality slips and time stands still, Consuela finds herself thrust into the world of the Flow. Removed from all she loves into this shifting world overlapping our own, Consuela quickly discovers she has the power to step out of her earthly skin and cloak herself in new ones—skins made from the world around her, crafted from water, fire, air. She is joined by other teens with extraordinary abilities, bound together to safeguard a world they can affect, but where they no longer belong.
When murder threatens to undo the Flow, the Watcher charges Consuela and elusive, attractive V to stop the killer. But the psychopath who threatens her new world may also hold the only key to Consuela’s way home.
My Review:
Consuela is just like any other girl at the beginning of the book. She has normal problems and nrmal looks. Sure, she's a little sad at times, but it won't be lie that forever. Then one day she peels off her skin. Bones is born, and she now has to help save lives. She feels good about herself for a change. She's in another world. But she has no idea what she's getting into. Travelling through a system called the flow, she's transported to a kind of hideout for people like her. Although no one's ever been just a skeleton before, everyone works together to save the lives of people who are going to die before they should. She meets Sissy, Tender, V, and Wish, among others and continues on her new path. This is an exciting story unlike anything I've read before, a little gory at times, you never know what to expect, what's coming next, and I'm glad I read it. I had no idea what to expect from this story based on the cover, but I'm not disappointed. I'm glad it's not a series, it ended well and there's nothing I'm still wondering about. Definitely check it out if you get a chance.
Thanks for reading! Check out this review and more at my blog.
(Radioactivebookreviews.wordpress.com)
As reality slips and time stands still, Consuela finds herself thrust into the world of the Flow. Removed from all she loves into this shifting world overlapping our own, Consuela quickly discovers she has the power to step out of her earthly skin and cloak herself in new ones—skins made from the world around her, crafted from water, fire, air. She is joined by other teens with extraordinary abilities, bound together to safeguard a world they can affect, but where they no longer belong.
When murder threatens to undo the Flow, the Watcher charges Consuela and elusive, attractive V to stop the killer. But the psychopath who threatens her new world may also hold the only key to Consuela’s way home.
My Review:
Consuela is just like any other girl at the beginning of the book. She has normal problems and nrmal looks. Sure, she's a little sad at times, but it won't be lie that forever. Then one day she peels off her skin. Bones is born, and she now has to help save lives. She feels good about herself for a change. She's in another world. But she has no idea what she's getting into. Travelling through a system called the flow, she's transported to a kind of hideout for people like her. Although no one's ever been just a skeleton before, everyone works together to save the lives of people who are going to die before they should. She meets Sissy, Tender, V, and Wish, among others and continues on her new path. This is an exciting story unlike anything I've read before, a little gory at times, you never know what to expect, what's coming next, and I'm glad I read it. I had no idea what to expect from this story based on the cover, but I'm not disappointed. I'm glad it's not a series, it ended well and there's nothing I'm still wondering about. Definitely check it out if you get a chance.
Thanks for reading! Check out this review and more at my blog.
(Radioactivebookreviews.wordpress.com)
February 8, 2023
3.5 rounded up.
Beautifully written, but it's got a few problems. There's a few plotholes, for example, where Consuela knows things that we as the audience were told through another character's perspective, but that she shouldn't know. Also, the romance felt quite shallow, so it was hard for me to get invested in it.
But all that said, I know in my heart that this is someone's perfect book. This story is going to resonate with someone on a deep level, I think. That person just wasn't me.
Beautifully written, but it's got a few problems. There's a few plotholes, for example, where Consuela knows things that we as the audience were told through another character's perspective, but that she shouldn't know. Also, the romance felt quite shallow, so it was hard for me to get invested in it.
But all that said, I know in my heart that this is someone's perfect book. This story is going to resonate with someone on a deep level, I think. That person just wasn't me.
Read
August 20, 2021After that first chapter where she digs in her fingers and rips off her own skin, I noped out of there. It was written in a very erm... detailed way that has put me off. Lol.
The cover is stunningly gorgeous.
The cover is stunningly gorgeous.
October 27, 2025
I got this book because thr cover is unique. I also wanted to read something I normally wouldn't. I really tried to like this book but I could not get into it. not sure if writing style but it different capture my attention.
July 28, 2018
This book is fresh, original, and epic! I loved it!
February 17, 2022
For some reason, I'm really struggling with rating and reviewing this. Because I did like it but I also feel almost aggressively apathetic towards it in a way that I can't quite understand.
March 22, 2017
Kind of dreamy, souls of teens in comas in a parallel world (the Flow) working as guardian angels. My favourite bits were the unzipping and taking new bodies (skins). 3.5 stars really
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews