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Wraith #1
Wraith
Freak. Weird. Crazy. These are the names tossed around seventeen-year old Jane Watts by her fellow classmates. But things aren’t always as they seem. Sometimes there’s a reason for talking to yourself in the hallway at school.
Adjusting to her new home and school after an abrupt move, Jane just wants to be like everyone else at school. Although she does manage to make one friend, Evan — sixteen, charming and protective. Evan is everything a girl could want in a best friend, with one minor caveat: He’s dead.
Caught somewhere between life and death, Evan is tied to Jane and the living world, unable to complete the journey to the other side. She thinks he’s here to be her friend, to take care of her, and that’s why no one else can see or hear him.
That is, until a new boy shows up at school after a rumored stretch in juvie. Connor can see Evan and is not convinced that the ghost is completely honest. Past experience taught him how ghosts tend to need something from the humans they connect to and Evan, despite his arguments, isn’t any different.
Jane is resentful of Connor’s intrusion but soon realizes that her ghostly friend has secrets about his past. And now Evan's family, still reeling from his tragic death, is in danger. Jane must face her fears and battle Evan’s human demons to free both of them.
Adjusting to her new home and school after an abrupt move, Jane just wants to be like everyone else at school. Although she does manage to make one friend, Evan — sixteen, charming and protective. Evan is everything a girl could want in a best friend, with one minor caveat: He’s dead.
Caught somewhere between life and death, Evan is tied to Jane and the living world, unable to complete the journey to the other side. She thinks he’s here to be her friend, to take care of her, and that’s why no one else can see or hear him.
That is, until a new boy shows up at school after a rumored stretch in juvie. Connor can see Evan and is not convinced that the ghost is completely honest. Past experience taught him how ghosts tend to need something from the humans they connect to and Evan, despite his arguments, isn’t any different.
Jane is resentful of Connor’s intrusion but soon realizes that her ghostly friend has secrets about his past. And now Evan's family, still reeling from his tragic death, is in danger. Jane must face her fears and battle Evan’s human demons to free both of them.
266 pages, ebook
First published February 7, 2012
262 people are currently reading
2545 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
April 9, 2012
I'm always downright giddy when I find a self-pubbed book that I truly enjoyed. And considering Wraith was a freebie when I got it, I say it's a shame that this book hasn't really garnered enough attention.
Jane's reputation in school hasn't really been stellar - all thanks to a little freak out in the past that involved her and a certain imaginary friend. What she didn't know at the time was that fact that her imaginary friend, Evan was actually a ghost who was killed by his mother's abusive boyfriend. After accepting her ability to see spirits, she'd come to appreciate Evan's presence. Who wouldn't? Evan was protective, kind, caring and pretty much her only friend, not to mention, he looks pretty awesome for a ghost. But when the school delinquent made known that he could see Evan too, Jane was determined to deny Evan's existence. It turns out, Connor's stubborn resolve to help Jane face the reality that Evan was stuck for a reason was founded. He helped them, out before.
Jane soon realized that Evan wasn't happy at all and that he needed to do what he needed to do in order to move on.
Wraith has a very simple storyline, but its simplicity was what got me hooked. I read purely for enjoyment, regardless of how basic the plot is and I honestly read this book in a little less than five hours. The writing was non-convoluted, straightforward and very genuine. Angel Lawson's take on the ghost story was something that we've probably heard of before but what I enjoyed the most about this book was her characters. They were simply real and relatable outside of the whole ghost story. While Jane was a bit of a struggle to like at first, I grew to like her once she got past her reluctant revulsion to Connor.
Evan's story really struck deep and his desperation to help his family was palpable though not obvious. The family's struggles were a bit too real for me as it dealt with the vicious cycle of abuse. I always find those stories a bit difficult to get through. I get easily frustrated with the characters' inability to break the cycle. I tend to question everyone's weaknesses and though I know that I can't tell these charactes how to live their lives until I have experienced it first hand, I still get angry.
Verdict: Wraith is a fantastic ghost story from a newbie author. Although her writing is far from perfect, her story was good enough that it would distract you from the slight imperfections. Reading Wraith was a smooth-sailing experience, and though it lacked the goosebumps-inducing ambiance, I'll argue that there were more to this story than just seance and things that go bump in the night. The romance between Jane and Connor was sweet if not a little short. I'm hopeful that the author will write more about these two mediums in the future because I felt like she didn't really end the story. I'm definitely keeping Angel Lawson in my author radar!
Jane's reputation in school hasn't really been stellar - all thanks to a little freak out in the past that involved her and a certain imaginary friend. What she didn't know at the time was that fact that her imaginary friend, Evan was actually a ghost who was killed by his mother's abusive boyfriend. After accepting her ability to see spirits, she'd come to appreciate Evan's presence. Who wouldn't? Evan was protective, kind, caring and pretty much her only friend, not to mention, he looks pretty awesome for a ghost. But when the school delinquent made known that he could see Evan too, Jane was determined to deny Evan's existence. It turns out, Connor's stubborn resolve to help Jane face the reality that Evan was stuck for a reason was founded. He helped them, out before.
Jane soon realized that Evan wasn't happy at all and that he needed to do what he needed to do in order to move on.
Wraith has a very simple storyline, but its simplicity was what got me hooked. I read purely for enjoyment, regardless of how basic the plot is and I honestly read this book in a little less than five hours. The writing was non-convoluted, straightforward and very genuine. Angel Lawson's take on the ghost story was something that we've probably heard of before but what I enjoyed the most about this book was her characters. They were simply real and relatable outside of the whole ghost story. While Jane was a bit of a struggle to like at first, I grew to like her once she got past her reluctant revulsion to Connor.
Evan's story really struck deep and his desperation to help his family was palpable though not obvious. The family's struggles were a bit too real for me as it dealt with the vicious cycle of abuse. I always find those stories a bit difficult to get through. I get easily frustrated with the characters' inability to break the cycle. I tend to question everyone's weaknesses and though I know that I can't tell these charactes how to live their lives until I have experienced it first hand, I still get angry.
Verdict: Wraith is a fantastic ghost story from a newbie author. Although her writing is far from perfect, her story was good enough that it would distract you from the slight imperfections. Reading Wraith was a smooth-sailing experience, and though it lacked the goosebumps-inducing ambiance, I'll argue that there were more to this story than just seance and things that go bump in the night. The romance between Jane and Connor was sweet if not a little short. I'm hopeful that the author will write more about these two mediums in the future because I felt like she didn't really end the story. I'm definitely keeping Angel Lawson in my author radar!
December 16, 2014
TW's: Domestic Violence
A decent fast paced YA contemporary, with ghosts.
The characters are well portrayed, as are their issues, and the subsequent relationship with their families.
Here there's no absent parents, and teens "living by themselves in the wild", if you know what I mean.
The plot is straightforward and mostly balanced: there are some chapters with some abrupt entries.
The romance towards the end tends to be a little more present than I would preferred, but it doesn't end being too problematic.
Some casual reference to girls being mean to each other in high school environment, but nothing particularly specific.
There's a small case of damsel in distress "behaviour".
A little "tstl behaviour" on Jane's part, and a little of a "control freak" on Connor's side, but nothing prone to rants.
The part regarding the domestic violence was I am afraid _ you'll see _ well done, and realistic.
In the end, I just wish there had been more ghost scenes. And that Jane had behaved a little more according to her age.
Let me explain:
There is a mystery involving someone she knows, and she manages to hold google something for a really long time.
November 16, 2012
You can also find this review on my blog, ">Into the Mystic
You will have to go to the blog to see the embedded video.
Initial reaction
This book is crazy good! Why is everyone not reading this book??!!??
Cover story
I liked the cover and title before reading the book. It doesn’t look like some of those really cheesy self-pubs that make me cringe. This one is very professional. Then, after reading it, the cover was even better because it made perfect sense with the story. Very nicely done, Ms. Lawson!
What’s the Story?
I accepted this book from the author because the premise sounded interesting. Some of you know about my hesitation with self-pubs, but this one seemed like something I would really like. However, in finishing up graduate school and trying to get caught up with other books that I needed to review, this one sort of got pushed to the side. I am currently kicking myself for not reading this one sooner.
Seriously, people, if you shy away from self-published authors like I do, run get this book! You will not be sorry! This book is better written than many books I’ve read from major publishers! In fact, I’m sort of angry that this one has not been picked up by a major publisher! I mean, they’ll publish 50 Shades of Craptastic, but they haven’t published this fabulous novel? It makes me question lots of things about the publishing industry.
This book sucked me in from the first chapter and I became so engrossed in Jane’s story and subsequently in Connor’s story. I did not want to put it down. I even read it during the hockey game we went to see on Sunday, much to my husband’s chagrin. I stayed up until 1:30 on a school night when I had to get up at 5:15 in order to finish reading this. Then I just sat there thinking about how wonderful the book was and how I wished that there would be another book telling another story about Jane and Connor and the ghosts.
This story was really intense. I felt so sorry for Jane and Connor and I also felt sorry for Evan, the ghost. There were so many harrowing situations in this novel. I found myself compulsively turning the pages, trying to get to the next thing that would happen.
It was amazing how the author was able to take this incredible story and still add a romantic element into it that didn’t seem forced or out of place. Even in the midst of all the struggling with the situation, Jane and Connor were able to find strength and support in one another. Watching their relationship bloom even under the stress of the events taking place was wonderful and it was beautifully written and very believable.
I could just wax poetic all day about how wonderful and amazing this book is, but really, you need to just go read it and experience it for yourself. This book may have single-handedly changed my view about self-published works.
The Soundtrack
Fly Me Away by Little and Ashley
Secret Heart by Feist
Ghost by Ingrid Michaelson
The lyrics to this one are not really like the story, but I thought it was cool to have a song named Ghost on the soundtrack for a book called Wraith. : )
Haunted by Evanescence
Somewhere I Belong by Linkin Park
The Walk by Imogen Heap
The Final Grade
My final grade for this book is A+. I am so blown away by the epic greatness of this book that I wish I could read it again but have it be all brand new. I’m so jealous of all you people out there who will get to experience Wraith for the first time! Just don’t wait around forever like I did. Go get it now, ok?
Thanks to the author, Angel Lawson, for providing me a copy of this book. I received no compensation for my honest review, not even a hot mess of a bad boy who can see ghosts. (darn it!)
You will have to go to the blog to see the embedded video.
Initial reaction
This book is crazy good! Why is everyone not reading this book??!!??
Cover story
I liked the cover and title before reading the book. It doesn’t look like some of those really cheesy self-pubs that make me cringe. This one is very professional. Then, after reading it, the cover was even better because it made perfect sense with the story. Very nicely done, Ms. Lawson!
What’s the Story?
I accepted this book from the author because the premise sounded interesting. Some of you know about my hesitation with self-pubs, but this one seemed like something I would really like. However, in finishing up graduate school and trying to get caught up with other books that I needed to review, this one sort of got pushed to the side. I am currently kicking myself for not reading this one sooner.
Seriously, people, if you shy away from self-published authors like I do, run get this book! You will not be sorry! This book is better written than many books I’ve read from major publishers! In fact, I’m sort of angry that this one has not been picked up by a major publisher! I mean, they’ll publish 50 Shades of Craptastic, but they haven’t published this fabulous novel? It makes me question lots of things about the publishing industry.
This book sucked me in from the first chapter and I became so engrossed in Jane’s story and subsequently in Connor’s story. I did not want to put it down. I even read it during the hockey game we went to see on Sunday, much to my husband’s chagrin. I stayed up until 1:30 on a school night when I had to get up at 5:15 in order to finish reading this. Then I just sat there thinking about how wonderful the book was and how I wished that there would be another book telling another story about Jane and Connor and the ghosts.
This story was really intense. I felt so sorry for Jane and Connor and I also felt sorry for Evan, the ghost. There were so many harrowing situations in this novel. I found myself compulsively turning the pages, trying to get to the next thing that would happen.
It was amazing how the author was able to take this incredible story and still add a romantic element into it that didn’t seem forced or out of place. Even in the midst of all the struggling with the situation, Jane and Connor were able to find strength and support in one another. Watching their relationship bloom even under the stress of the events taking place was wonderful and it was beautifully written and very believable.
I could just wax poetic all day about how wonderful and amazing this book is, but really, you need to just go read it and experience it for yourself. This book may have single-handedly changed my view about self-published works.
The Soundtrack
Fly Me Away by Little and Ashley
Secret Heart by Feist
Ghost by Ingrid Michaelson
The lyrics to this one are not really like the story, but I thought it was cool to have a song named Ghost on the soundtrack for a book called Wraith. : )
Haunted by Evanescence
Somewhere I Belong by Linkin Park
The Walk by Imogen Heap
The Final Grade
My final grade for this book is A+. I am so blown away by the epic greatness of this book that I wish I could read it again but have it be all brand new. I’m so jealous of all you people out there who will get to experience Wraith for the first time! Just don’t wait around forever like I did. Go get it now, ok?
Thanks to the author, Angel Lawson, for providing me a copy of this book. I received no compensation for my honest review, not even a hot mess of a bad boy who can see ghosts. (darn it!)
April 23, 2012
I have to start off by saying that I adored this book!
I wasn't sure what to expect at first but once I started reading I could not stop.
Wraith starts off with Jane and Evan. Jane is the "freak" of the school and is treated as such because of her behavior and friendship with Evan. Why is their a problem with there friendship? Simple answer. Evan is not alive, he is a wraith or a ghost. Jane doesn't mind what goes on around her because Evan is there for her and comforts her whenever she is upset. The problem is that Evan hasn't moved on. He's stuck in the in-between and doesn't know how to move on. That is until Connor walks into Jane's life. See Connor is not normal either. He is a "medium" and has not dealt with a ghost like Evan before. When he notices that Jane is being followed by Evan he warns her that she needs to be careful. A warning that Jane laughs off because Evan is her best friend and has taken care of her. After Jane uncovers the mystery behind Evans death she turns to the one person that has been warning her something was wrong. Together Connor and Jane try to help Evan move on by completing his "unfinished" business on earth.
I enjoyed the plot of this book and enjoyed getting to know about Evans, Jane's and Connors stories. Just like Jane you get attached to Evan and feel that pain of his story through the whole book. He truly was a good friend to Jane and in the end I'm glad that Jane began to trust Connor and let him help her. You couldn't help but be sadden by Connor's story as well. I adored his protectiveness over Jane and his constant push to get her to trust him.
If you are looking for a good ghost story and paranormal romance this is the book for you! I loved loved this book and think other would enjoy it as well!
I wasn't sure what to expect at first but once I started reading I could not stop.
Wraith starts off with Jane and Evan. Jane is the "freak" of the school and is treated as such because of her behavior and friendship with Evan. Why is their a problem with there friendship? Simple answer. Evan is not alive, he is a wraith or a ghost. Jane doesn't mind what goes on around her because Evan is there for her and comforts her whenever she is upset. The problem is that Evan hasn't moved on. He's stuck in the in-between and doesn't know how to move on. That is until Connor walks into Jane's life. See Connor is not normal either. He is a "medium" and has not dealt with a ghost like Evan before. When he notices that Jane is being followed by Evan he warns her that she needs to be careful. A warning that Jane laughs off because Evan is her best friend and has taken care of her. After Jane uncovers the mystery behind Evans death she turns to the one person that has been warning her something was wrong. Together Connor and Jane try to help Evan move on by completing his "unfinished" business on earth.
I enjoyed the plot of this book and enjoyed getting to know about Evans, Jane's and Connors stories. Just like Jane you get attached to Evan and feel that pain of his story through the whole book. He truly was a good friend to Jane and in the end I'm glad that Jane began to trust Connor and let him help her. You couldn't help but be sadden by Connor's story as well. I adored his protectiveness over Jane and his constant push to get her to trust him.
If you are looking for a good ghost story and paranormal romance this is the book for you! I loved loved this book and think other would enjoy it as well!
August 12, 2015
*I received this book from the author but that in no way influenced this review*
Labeled a freak at school-Jane only has one friend to turn to, Evan who happens to be dead. When Jane meets Connor she quickly realizes that he can see Evan too. Jane tries to resist the inevitable friendship with Connor but the more he tries to talk to her, the more she realizes they have in common. But Connor is suspicious of Evan's intentions and believes that there is more to the story of why he is on earth than Jane knows. Turns out Evan's past was much more horrible and heartbreaking than Jane imagined. Realizing that Evan's past isn't exactly over and that his family may be in danger, Jane also endangers herself.
My thoughts:
I thought this book was a great read. It kept me interested and I finished it the day I got it because I found it so interesting. The story was good, heartbreaking and romantic. Some moments I wanted to cry but others I felt super giddy (cause I'm a total girl). I liked that it didn't involve some love triangle like I originally thought it would. The relationship between Jane and Connor I really enjoyed even though I couldn't stand Jane's attitude towards him at first. I do wish that there was more on Jane's friendship with Evan though.
All in all I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy contemporary fiction with a twist of fantasy. I don't think this book necessarily needs a sequel but I would enjoy reading more about Jane and Connor in the future if the author decides to write one.
Labeled a freak at school-Jane only has one friend to turn to, Evan who happens to be dead. When Jane meets Connor she quickly realizes that he can see Evan too. Jane tries to resist the inevitable friendship with Connor but the more he tries to talk to her, the more she realizes they have in common. But Connor is suspicious of Evan's intentions and believes that there is more to the story of why he is on earth than Jane knows. Turns out Evan's past was much more horrible and heartbreaking than Jane imagined. Realizing that Evan's past isn't exactly over and that his family may be in danger, Jane also endangers herself.
My thoughts:
I thought this book was a great read. It kept me interested and I finished it the day I got it because I found it so interesting. The story was good, heartbreaking and romantic. Some moments I wanted to cry but others I felt super giddy (cause I'm a total girl). I liked that it didn't involve some love triangle like I originally thought it would. The relationship between Jane and Connor I really enjoyed even though I couldn't stand Jane's attitude towards him at first. I do wish that there was more on Jane's friendship with Evan though.
All in all I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy contemporary fiction with a twist of fantasy. I don't think this book necessarily needs a sequel but I would enjoy reading more about Jane and Connor in the future if the author decides to write one.
October 26, 2012
I had never heard of Wraith or knew anything about it. Then one of the authors I follow had it on their reading list. I have liked several of the same books as this author so I thought why not. Then when I looked it up on Amazon it was either free or only like .99 so I immediately got it. I have to say after reading Wraith, that it was a very smart decision.
This book is about a girl named Jane who is a little different. She is the new girl and school which is hard enough but then she is labeled as the crazy one when she gets into an argument with no one. Well no one anyone else can see. You see Jane has a best friend, Evan. He is the perfect best friend except that he is a ghost and only Jane can see him. Well that is until another boy comes back to school after a leave of absence and he can also see Evan. His name is Conner and he is a leading male character that you automatically fall for and can't get enough of.
I loved Evan and Janes relationship, and Conner and Janes. The whole story line with Evan keeps you so involved in the story you can't put the book down. I kept telling myself just one more chapter, it was not my finest mommy day since I was so wrapped up in this book. I love how Jane is constantly trying to keep Conner at a distance but he will have nothing to do with it. Jane is so sure the feeling are one way that she keeps him at arms length. My favorite part is when Conner sets her straight.
This book is about a girl named Jane who is a little different. She is the new girl and school which is hard enough but then she is labeled as the crazy one when she gets into an argument with no one. Well no one anyone else can see. You see Jane has a best friend, Evan. He is the perfect best friend except that he is a ghost and only Jane can see him. Well that is until another boy comes back to school after a leave of absence and he can also see Evan. His name is Conner and he is a leading male character that you automatically fall for and can't get enough of.
I loved Evan and Janes relationship, and Conner and Janes. The whole story line with Evan keeps you so involved in the story you can't put the book down. I kept telling myself just one more chapter, it was not my finest mommy day since I was so wrapped up in this book. I love how Jane is constantly trying to keep Conner at a distance but he will have nothing to do with it. Jane is so sure the feeling are one way that she keeps him at arms length. My favorite part is when Conner sets her straight.
January 1, 2015
Jane and Evan are good friends, in fact, while the rest of her classmates avoid her and label her as a freak, Evan has always stood by her and talked her through her problems. Which, in itself, is a problem, since Evan is a ghost and no one can see him but Jane. ...Until Connor, a fellow student who has just returned from a stay at a juvenile detention centre, makes it clear he can see Evan, too. And unlike Jane, Connor is sure Evan is not there as a friend.
The plot was straightforward, the writing was simple and things were, for the most part, predictable. But it was good! This book is an example of how, as long as you do it right, a simple story can be a very entertaining story. From start to finish I could not put this book down! The writing lures you in, even though there are a few editing issues.
I thought the relationships, be it the ones within the family, the ones between friends, or the romantic ones, were all realistically portrayed. Also realistic was the portrayal of domestic abuse and its effects.
August 4, 2013
I was actually pretty surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I bought it on a whim based on some random tweet I saw. I didn't expect much, but I certainly enjoyed it more than I thought I would.
It wasn't perfect, of course, it was super jumpy with too many random scenes that had no real impact on the story. But it's relatively fun and sweet - like a toy you get from a cereal box when you didn't expect it. You don't rave about it, but you keep thinking that it's not a bum deal.
It wasn't perfect, of course, it was super jumpy with too many random scenes that had no real impact on the story. But it's relatively fun and sweet - like a toy you get from a cereal box when you didn't expect it. You don't rave about it, but you keep thinking that it's not a bum deal.
January 18, 2013
3.5 stars.
I picked up Wraith thinking I was in for a creepy story about a girl driven to madness by the haunting presence of ghosts. And while that was true in a sense, the overall story was much different than I expected.
And I kind of loved that.
Jane Watts is an outcast at her new school, all because she got into a very public fight with her best friend, Evan. Normally, that kind of public display would blow over in just a couple days, except in this case, Evan’s dead, and no one can see him but Jane. Her outburst in the hall earns her a permanent Freak label, as far as her classmates are concerned.
But Jane’s okay with that. Mostly. She has Evan, after all. The sweet, protective ghost who lives in her room, and seems to want nothing more than to be her friend. She’s even learned to control her reactions to him when he visits her in class. Despite being a complete pariah, Jane’s settling into her new anonymity at her school.
That is, until Connor shows up.
“He looked in my direction, but not at me--not exactly. His eyes were glued right behind me. To the seat I knew was technically empty, the seat of my best friend and current tormentor.”
Back from a recent stint in juvie--or so the rumors say--Connor is everything Jane doesn’t need. A cocky bad boy who may or may not be a delinquent... and oh yeah, he can see Evan too. Connor warns Jane that Evan is there for a reason; he needs something from her before he can finally be at rest.
Jane is torn between wanting to keep her best friend, and the need to help him. Together, she and Connor try to uncover the secrets of Evan’s past, and in the process put themselves in Evan’s murderer’s crosshairs.
Wraith was less creepy than I envisioned after reading the summary, but I found I didn’t miss the shivers. (I’m kind of a wimp, I’ll be honest.) Though the story was somewhat straightforward and predictable, it was an interesting twist on the usual paranormal.
I loved the growth Jane demonstrated throughout the story; she begins as a defensive social outcast, completely dependent on her secret best friend, to someone determined and confident, and open to making new friends. Lawson really shines in her character development with both Jane and Connor.
And I especially loved that there was no love triangle set up between Jane, Connor, and Evan.
Wraith is a solidly entertaining paranormal, with humor, mystery, and heart.
This was Angel Lawson’s debut novel. Its sequel, Shadow Bound, was released in December, and is only $3.99 on Kindle and Nook.
I picked up Wraith thinking I was in for a creepy story about a girl driven to madness by the haunting presence of ghosts. And while that was true in a sense, the overall story was much different than I expected.
And I kind of loved that.
Jane Watts is an outcast at her new school, all because she got into a very public fight with her best friend, Evan. Normally, that kind of public display would blow over in just a couple days, except in this case, Evan’s dead, and no one can see him but Jane. Her outburst in the hall earns her a permanent Freak label, as far as her classmates are concerned.
But Jane’s okay with that. Mostly. She has Evan, after all. The sweet, protective ghost who lives in her room, and seems to want nothing more than to be her friend. She’s even learned to control her reactions to him when he visits her in class. Despite being a complete pariah, Jane’s settling into her new anonymity at her school.
That is, until Connor shows up.
“He looked in my direction, but not at me--not exactly. His eyes were glued right behind me. To the seat I knew was technically empty, the seat of my best friend and current tormentor.”
Back from a recent stint in juvie--or so the rumors say--Connor is everything Jane doesn’t need. A cocky bad boy who may or may not be a delinquent... and oh yeah, he can see Evan too. Connor warns Jane that Evan is there for a reason; he needs something from her before he can finally be at rest.
Jane is torn between wanting to keep her best friend, and the need to help him. Together, she and Connor try to uncover the secrets of Evan’s past, and in the process put themselves in Evan’s murderer’s crosshairs.
Wraith was less creepy than I envisioned after reading the summary, but I found I didn’t miss the shivers. (I’m kind of a wimp, I’ll be honest.) Though the story was somewhat straightforward and predictable, it was an interesting twist on the usual paranormal.
I loved the growth Jane demonstrated throughout the story; she begins as a defensive social outcast, completely dependent on her secret best friend, to someone determined and confident, and open to making new friends. Lawson really shines in her character development with both Jane and Connor.
And I especially loved that there was no love triangle set up between Jane, Connor, and Evan.
Wraith is a solidly entertaining paranormal, with humor, mystery, and heart.
This was Angel Lawson’s debut novel. Its sequel, Shadow Bound, was released in December, and is only $3.99 on Kindle and Nook.
March 2, 2017
When reading the synopsis of this book, it reminded me of the first season of american horror story. With a girl and her best friend who is a ghost, I was instantly drawn to see where this story would lead. I became hooked from the very first page. The story picks up right away and really never slows down the entire book. Jane goes from school freak to the envy of all girls, she learns about her ability, and even finds love along the way (in the form of friends, family and one hot boy! ) Jane's best friend and also ghost, was easy to like. Evan, his name was, has a history though, and needs Jane's help. But with no clue what shes going through, or that there even is a mission Jane has let Evan hang around long enough to not want him to leave now! She has to try and make the right decisions and choose to help him no matter what the consequecnces are and he just might have a reason to help her as well. I loved the importance of family and friends throughout this story. And I also loved that I could relate so well to all the characters.
I was reminded of the Mara Dyer series a LOT when reading this book. It has that same sense of spookiness and dark mystery, with a hot and steamy romance to go along with it :) I loved this book and would highly reccommend picking it up and giving it a shot, you wont want to put it down!
I was reminded of the Mara Dyer series a LOT when reading this book. It has that same sense of spookiness and dark mystery, with a hot and steamy romance to go along with it :) I loved this book and would highly reccommend picking it up and giving it a shot, you wont want to put it down!
January 7, 2013
For a debut self pubbed book I found this extremely well written and intriguing. The book is very easy to follow and gets into great detail of the world in which Jane lives and shares with Evan and Connor. The characters that are introduced through the book including subtle characters like her Aunt Jeannine and her parents are fleshed out enough that they are present and accounted for in every scene but not overpowering. They are an add to the story as a whole.
I tend to highlight a book quite a bit if I'm interested or enjoying it and I have quite a few highlighted passages. It was a refreshing read in that the main love interest characters didn't fall immediately and desperately in love. It was a more realistic slow build which I enjoy much more than over dramatized instant love.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read and I would most definitely think the "young adults" in my home would enjoy the read... along with mom :)
I tend to highlight a book quite a bit if I'm interested or enjoying it and I have quite a few highlighted passages. It was a refreshing read in that the main love interest characters didn't fall immediately and desperately in love. It was a more realistic slow build which I enjoy much more than over dramatized instant love.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read and I would most definitely think the "young adults" in my home would enjoy the read... along with mom :)
December 24, 2012
Wraith is, on the surface, a 'ghost story', but it's much, much more than that at its core. It's a story of loss and acceptance, of not judging a book by its cover. It's a story about sacrifice, about risking it all for your best friend.
Jane's best friend just happens to be a ghost.
Wraith covers some heavy topics, but does so in a delicate way. Issues aren't used for shock value, but more as themes to subtly teach lessons without shoving them down the readers throat. I have utmost respect for Ms Lawson for her ability to weave serious topics throughout without making it 'preachy'.
I read Wraith in two sittings... would've been one, but my plane landed so I had to take a break to unboard lol. It's an easy read, flows smoothly, and kept my attention all the way through. Thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading the sequel.
Jane's best friend just happens to be a ghost.
Wraith covers some heavy topics, but does so in a delicate way. Issues aren't used for shock value, but more as themes to subtly teach lessons without shoving them down the readers throat. I have utmost respect for Ms Lawson for her ability to weave serious topics throughout without making it 'preachy'.
I read Wraith in two sittings... would've been one, but my plane landed so I had to take a break to unboard lol. It's an easy read, flows smoothly, and kept my attention all the way through. Thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading the sequel.
December 27, 2012
I stumbled upon this ebook after I read a review that caused a mainly Big 6 reader to read a self published book.. I love to read books that turn people while im not sure this reader was turned but I like to hope.. (FYI I was turned by The Conduit By Stacey Rourke) Indie Reads have ruled my world for about 8 months now and im not sorry.. Theres something about an independently written book that calls to me.. Perhaps its the accessibility of the Authors although with the Social Media BOOM its not uncommon to have a twitter conversation with an Author.. Ive had the pleasure of speaking with Angel Lawson and I played it cool. I think im pretty sure I professed my undying love for her.. if I hadnt then im pretty sure im doing it now.. but still I was cool I didnt go fangirl at least that she could tell on this end of the keyboard I was a giddy little school girl.. One of these days ill put my big girl panties on and ask her all her typical questions im sure and I could totally see her being cool about it.. Perhaps I should stop gushing about her and start gushing about this amazing book she wrote, yes?
Jane's a freak at least to all the kids in her new school.. But honestly what would teenage you think if you saw this girl freak out at nothing in the middle of school.. youd think shes a freak.. truth is ugly isnt it.. Jane really isnt a freak she just sees ghost.. well one ghost.. her best friend Evan is a ghost and hes pretty much her savior.. After moving to a small town so her parents can open a gallery.. He appeared to her.. He was also the reason that she freaked out at school.. Jane has pretty much mastered having a ghost for a best friend.. That is until the even newer kid Connor shows signs that he can see Evan as well.. Out of no where Jane makes friends with some girls and from them she learns that Connor isnt as new as he seems.. Last year Connor had some pretty serious issues including trying to burn his house down.. This makes Jane even more skittish about Connor.. Slowly but surely he lets him in.. and the guy is pretty damn persistent.. and I cant completely put my finger on it but Connor that makes me SWOON! Hes the obvious school bad boy.. but well hes not.. hes like a hooker with a heart of gold.. only hes not a hooker.. lol I think I might be enjoying myself too much here..
As Jane opens up to Connor he opens up to her.. The incident last year had to do with his own ghost.. He has had a few ghosts in his lifetime which isnt very long.. But hes definitely learned a few things about how to deal.. For one.. Evan isnt around to be Janes best friend.. he has unfinished business that needs taking care of.. It takes a minute for Jane to understand what Evans business is but when she does Evan completely discourages it.. She needs to get to his family and make sure theyre okay..
As a character to me Jane was your typical teenage heroine in a YA novel.. Guarded and strong.. sometimes I wish for a gullible fool just to switch things up.. I may slightly be annoyed by her because of my affection for Connor so take that with a grain of salt.. As a whole I greatly enjoyed Wraith.. Theres soo much more that I havent outlined and expressed my opinion on.. Only because I feel the great urgency and desire for you to pick it up and try it for yourself.. I had the most difficult time putting the kindle down and functioning in society.. Luckily I didnt walk into anything :D
July 14, 2012
This review can also be found on my blog.
4.5 stars really. This was incredible, but I had to take off some points for the lack of proper proofreading.
I'm not usually one for ghost stories, but the blurb for this book caught my eye. Well, that and the fact that I 'know' this author from another medium. So, my expectations for this were a) somewhat apprehensive because of the ghost mentioned in the blurb, and b) pretty damn high because I knew I was in for a riveting story.
Well, lemme tell ya, Angel exceeded my expectations, and this is a ghost story I absolutely loved.
I was super impressed with how well the author managed to capture the typical characteristics of teenagers, those pitiable creatures caught between childhood and adulthood, not quite grown up but no longer kids. She accurately describes their struggles with peer pressure, being a social outcast, high school dramas, real grown up issues, secrets and a first love. And that's without adding the supernatural element of having to deal with a ghost whose past becomes their present.
This novel also doesn't suffer from what many YA books do - there is no insta-love, no "OMG, I can't live without you" two minutes after the two MCs meet, and certainly no love triangle either.
Connor is a great protagonist, realistically portrayed, though we only see him through Jane's eyes, which to me took away a bit of the characterization because he became somewhat two-dimensional.
Jane is part kick-ass heroine, part damsel in distress, part agonizingly whiny girl on the verge of womanhood and part irritating. I didn't care for how hostile she was with Connor in the beginning.
Written in the 1st person POV, the prose is crisp and concise, and although the dialogue on occasion seemed awkward, it fit into the awkwardness of first love. I also enjoyed how well the secondary characters were fleshed out, especially Ava, who becomes a good friend to Jane and ultimately acts as a guide to help her along.
As for Evan, the ghost - he remained somewhat on the fringes as he wasn't always around, but he is one of the main characters in this story. His backstory will have you in tears, and I was particularly impressed with how well the author portrayed the sadness and angst that surrounds this character.
I also appreciated the inclusion of art (Jane's parents own a gallery, her aunt is an artist), and how well the supernatural element fit into the overall story.
The cover is beautiful and invokes the emotions that permeate the book. It's clear that much thought went into creating that image.
This was an excellent debut from a new author, and I look forward to future offerings from Angel Lawson.
I received a free e-copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars really. This was incredible, but I had to take off some points for the lack of proper proofreading.
I'm not usually one for ghost stories, but the blurb for this book caught my eye. Well, that and the fact that I 'know' this author from another medium. So, my expectations for this were a) somewhat apprehensive because of the ghost mentioned in the blurb, and b) pretty damn high because I knew I was in for a riveting story.
Well, lemme tell ya, Angel exceeded my expectations, and this is a ghost story I absolutely loved.
I was super impressed with how well the author managed to capture the typical characteristics of teenagers, those pitiable creatures caught between childhood and adulthood, not quite grown up but no longer kids. She accurately describes their struggles with peer pressure, being a social outcast, high school dramas, real grown up issues, secrets and a first love. And that's without adding the supernatural element of having to deal with a ghost whose past becomes their present.
This novel also doesn't suffer from what many YA books do - there is no insta-love, no "OMG, I can't live without you" two minutes after the two MCs meet, and certainly no love triangle either.
Connor is a great protagonist, realistically portrayed, though we only see him through Jane's eyes, which to me took away a bit of the characterization because he became somewhat two-dimensional.
Jane is part kick-ass heroine, part damsel in distress, part agonizingly whiny girl on the verge of womanhood and part irritating. I didn't care for how hostile she was with Connor in the beginning.
Written in the 1st person POV, the prose is crisp and concise, and although the dialogue on occasion seemed awkward, it fit into the awkwardness of first love. I also enjoyed how well the secondary characters were fleshed out, especially Ava, who becomes a good friend to Jane and ultimately acts as a guide to help her along.
As for Evan, the ghost - he remained somewhat on the fringes as he wasn't always around, but he is one of the main characters in this story. His backstory will have you in tears, and I was particularly impressed with how well the author portrayed the sadness and angst that surrounds this character.
I also appreciated the inclusion of art (Jane's parents own a gallery, her aunt is an artist), and how well the supernatural element fit into the overall story.
The cover is beautiful and invokes the emotions that permeate the book. It's clear that much thought went into creating that image.
This was an excellent debut from a new author, and I look forward to future offerings from Angel Lawson.
I received a free e-copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2013
It's kind of hard for me to rate this book or review it. I feel way different now than I did when I started it or was halfway through the book. When I started reading, it felt like a typical ghost story. It actually reminded me of the 6th sense a lot. Jane and Connor see dead people and they need to help them move on. On a superficial level I guess that's all there was to it, but I can't deny that on a deeper level it was so much more. I felt really sad and emotional at the end, and that counts for something.
Jane has a best friend named Evan. And when I say best friend, I really mean best friend. He's always there for her, protects her, comforts her, makes her smile, supports her and even argues with her from time to time. They're so attached to each other, I found myself wishing I had someone like that too. There's just one problem: Evan's dead and she's the only one who can see him. Or so they thought. When Connor comes in the picture and they realize he can see Evan too, things start to change. Jane realizes that her best friend needs help to move on to the other side. Connor is more than willing to help her with that task. The friendship between Jane and Evan is so strong that, at first, neither one of them wanted Evan to move on. Jane wanted to keep her best friend and Evan wanted to protect Jane. It was so touching to see how Jane unselfishly put Evan's needs first and decided to help him move on, even though it'd mean that she would lose her best friend.
For about 75% of the book, Jane annoyed me to no end. I wanted to smack her. She kept pushing Connor away, kept doing stupid things and her monologues almost made me yell at her. However, she came to her senses eventually and proved to be stronger and wiser than I thought. It was a long time coming, but better late than never. Another reason why I didn't give it more stars is because the story was kind of predictable. But I get it, because this is the first book in the series and the author can't jump into a really complicated story right away. For introduction's sake, I can tolerate predictable.
I loved Connor and how supportive he was. He was an amazing guy and the perfect boyfriend. He's drawn to Jane because they have the same ability to see dead people, but he finds himself really falling for her. He takes such good care of her, it breaks my heart. That's why I was so pissed at Jane for pushing him away in the beginning. Fortunately she redeemed herself and I found them to be really cute together. Kind of like puppy love, but obviously deep enough because of their shared ability. Can't wait to read what's in store for them next!
Jane has a best friend named Evan. And when I say best friend, I really mean best friend. He's always there for her, protects her, comforts her, makes her smile, supports her and even argues with her from time to time. They're so attached to each other, I found myself wishing I had someone like that too. There's just one problem: Evan's dead and she's the only one who can see him. Or so they thought. When Connor comes in the picture and they realize he can see Evan too, things start to change. Jane realizes that her best friend needs help to move on to the other side. Connor is more than willing to help her with that task. The friendship between Jane and Evan is so strong that, at first, neither one of them wanted Evan to move on. Jane wanted to keep her best friend and Evan wanted to protect Jane. It was so touching to see how Jane unselfishly put Evan's needs first and decided to help him move on, even though it'd mean that she would lose her best friend.
For about 75% of the book, Jane annoyed me to no end. I wanted to smack her. She kept pushing Connor away, kept doing stupid things and her monologues almost made me yell at her. However, she came to her senses eventually and proved to be stronger and wiser than I thought. It was a long time coming, but better late than never. Another reason why I didn't give it more stars is because the story was kind of predictable. But I get it, because this is the first book in the series and the author can't jump into a really complicated story right away. For introduction's sake, I can tolerate predictable.
I loved Connor and how supportive he was. He was an amazing guy and the perfect boyfriend. He's drawn to Jane because they have the same ability to see dead people, but he finds himself really falling for her. He takes such good care of her, it breaks my heart. That's why I was so pissed at Jane for pushing him away in the beginning. Fortunately she redeemed herself and I found them to be really cute together. Kind of like puppy love, but obviously deep enough because of their shared ability. Can't wait to read what's in store for them next!
February 5, 2013
(Source: Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk.)
Jane can see ghosts. Well, she can see one ghost – Evan
Evan died before Jane even moved to his home town, so she’s only ever seen him as a ghost, this doesn’t bother her though. Since she had an argument with him in the middle of school, everybody thinks she’s crazy, so Evan is the only friend she has.
One day there is a new boy in class though – Connor. He’s gorgeous, but the most surprising thing is that it seems like he can also see Evan. This is the first time that anybody other than Jane has seen Evan, and she’s not sure what she’s supposed to do about it.
After a bit of a rocky start, Jane and Connor become friends, and possibly even more than friends, but Connor says that Evan is hanging around for a reason; there’s something stopping him from crossing over, and Jane must help him finish whatever he needs finishing. Jane isn’t sure about this though, Evan is her best friend and she’s not sure she wants to lose him.
When Jane accidentally discovers that Evan’s mom visits a battered women’s shelter, she knows that she has to do something to help both Evan and his mom though, even if it means losing Evan in the long run.
Can Jane really help Evan and his mom? What trouble will she stir up in the process? And do two people who see ghost make a good pair?
I enjoyed this book, Jane was a likeable character, and Connor was really sweet!
I found it a little odd at first that Jane could only see Evan and not other ghosts, and I also found it a bit odd that Jane was so accepting of Evan. It takes a special sort of person to so easily accept that they can see and talk to a ghost without freaking out.
I felt really sorry for Evan. When it was revealed how he died, and why he wasn’t able to move on it was really sad, and I really wanted Jane to be able to help his mom for him.
Connor was a total sweetheart, and I really liked him! He was very sweet and romantic and chivalrous towards Jane and it was really nice. It was also nice to see how the pair developed feelings for each other slowly, and how their relationship developed.
I liked the storyline in this book, and while part of it was easy to guess and expected, the rest of the story wasn’t, and the smaller details were well thought out.
Overall; a good YA ghost story, with a touch of romance.
7 out of 10.
Jane can see ghosts. Well, she can see one ghost – Evan
Evan died before Jane even moved to his home town, so she’s only ever seen him as a ghost, this doesn’t bother her though. Since she had an argument with him in the middle of school, everybody thinks she’s crazy, so Evan is the only friend she has.
One day there is a new boy in class though – Connor. He’s gorgeous, but the most surprising thing is that it seems like he can also see Evan. This is the first time that anybody other than Jane has seen Evan, and she’s not sure what she’s supposed to do about it.
After a bit of a rocky start, Jane and Connor become friends, and possibly even more than friends, but Connor says that Evan is hanging around for a reason; there’s something stopping him from crossing over, and Jane must help him finish whatever he needs finishing. Jane isn’t sure about this though, Evan is her best friend and she’s not sure she wants to lose him.
When Jane accidentally discovers that Evan’s mom visits a battered women’s shelter, she knows that she has to do something to help both Evan and his mom though, even if it means losing Evan in the long run.
Can Jane really help Evan and his mom? What trouble will she stir up in the process? And do two people who see ghost make a good pair?
I enjoyed this book, Jane was a likeable character, and Connor was really sweet!
I found it a little odd at first that Jane could only see Evan and not other ghosts, and I also found it a bit odd that Jane was so accepting of Evan. It takes a special sort of person to so easily accept that they can see and talk to a ghost without freaking out.
I felt really sorry for Evan. When it was revealed how he died, and why he wasn’t able to move on it was really sad, and I really wanted Jane to be able to help his mom for him.
Connor was a total sweetheart, and I really liked him! He was very sweet and romantic and chivalrous towards Jane and it was really nice. It was also nice to see how the pair developed feelings for each other slowly, and how their relationship developed.
I liked the storyline in this book, and while part of it was easy to guess and expected, the rest of the story wasn’t, and the smaller details were well thought out.
Overall; a good YA ghost story, with a touch of romance.
7 out of 10.
May 11, 2012
Okay, first thing I want to say is that the plot of this author's debut novel had a great premise. Most of the time, ghost stories are scary, and driven by mean spirits that have a score to settle regarding the end of their life. However, this ghost truly cared for Jane, and it was nice to see a "human" side to a ghost.
My main problem with this was Jane Watts. Just like every other YA novel, the female protagonist is hard to like. Maybe I have selective memory, but my 17-year old self, while still naive and immature, wasn't THIS immature. She's very self-involved and self-centered and sometimes I wanted to shake her. That seems to happen with every YA book I read these days. It's important to note, though, that Jane actually does grow as a character, which is one of my requirements for giving authors praise. You have to KNOW your characters and know where you want them to go during the course of the novel, and have a clear direction to get them there. Angel Lawson does that very well.
As far as Connor goes, he was okay, and I loved that he loved Jane, despite everything that was said about her. I didn't get warm and fuzzy over him, though, which was strange since I usually become very invested in the love interests and like them way more than their female counterparts. Even though Connor had a good background, it wasn't enough to set him apart from other literary love interests. He reminded me too much of literary boyfriends of novels past. I still liked him, but he didn't stand out.
And finally, the grammar. I give kudos to the author for finishing her first book and self-publishing which is something I'd love to do. However, the grammar had more errors than I could count. Usually that would distract me from the plot, but luckily the plot was strong enough to power me through the errors I caught.
Overall, though, a decent first novel. I'd definitely read more from this author.
My main problem with this was Jane Watts. Just like every other YA novel, the female protagonist is hard to like. Maybe I have selective memory, but my 17-year old self, while still naive and immature, wasn't THIS immature. She's very self-involved and self-centered and sometimes I wanted to shake her. That seems to happen with every YA book I read these days. It's important to note, though, that Jane actually does grow as a character, which is one of my requirements for giving authors praise. You have to KNOW your characters and know where you want them to go during the course of the novel, and have a clear direction to get them there. Angel Lawson does that very well.
As far as Connor goes, he was okay, and I loved that he loved Jane, despite everything that was said about her. I didn't get warm and fuzzy over him, though, which was strange since I usually become very invested in the love interests and like them way more than their female counterparts. Even though Connor had a good background, it wasn't enough to set him apart from other literary love interests. He reminded me too much of literary boyfriends of novels past. I still liked him, but he didn't stand out.
And finally, the grammar. I give kudos to the author for finishing her first book and self-publishing which is something I'd love to do. However, the grammar had more errors than I could count. Usually that would distract me from the plot, but luckily the plot was strong enough to power me through the errors I caught.
Overall, though, a decent first novel. I'd definitely read more from this author.
May 10, 2012
I completely enjoyed Wraith. One measure of my enjoyment was the simple fact that I read it in just three days. Not particularly impressive by the standards of many, but I have a serious problem with focus and attention. It's hard for me to STAY engrossed in a book for longer than about 20 pgs at a time, simply because my mind is a bit defective. ;) Hence, it takes me a relatively long time to read an entire novel.
But not this one!
I enjoyed the clean, easily readable style, and I *really* liked the characters. I especially appreciated that Jane's parents were fundamentally good people. Too often I'll pick up a YA novel and the parents are either absent or idiots or pure evil. These adults were realistically drawn.
I loved the plot, the idea that ability to see and interact with ghosts/wraiths came with a purpose, that it need not always be a curse.
Things that took me out of the story: technical errors, some odd word choices, and one mistake that had me shaking my head ("exasperated" used in place of "exacerbated." Someone should have caught that.) The plot relies on a little too much coincidence; Connor shows up on a few occasions at JUST the right time, and Jane, an otherwise very intelligent girl, exercises some very poor judgment that almost gets her killed.
I wish things had been developed with Jane's aunt just a little bit more -- I liked the genetic aspect of their "ability."
I'm an Angel Lawson fan now, and I'm looking forward to her next work. I'll definitely be reading.
But not this one!
I enjoyed the clean, easily readable style, and I *really* liked the characters. I especially appreciated that Jane's parents were fundamentally good people. Too often I'll pick up a YA novel and the parents are either absent or idiots or pure evil. These adults were realistically drawn.
I loved the plot, the idea that ability to see and interact with ghosts/wraiths came with a purpose, that it need not always be a curse.
Things that took me out of the story: technical errors, some odd word choices, and one mistake that had me shaking my head ("exasperated" used in place of "exacerbated." Someone should have caught that.) The plot relies on a little too much coincidence; Connor shows up on a few occasions at JUST the right time, and Jane, an otherwise very intelligent girl, exercises some very poor judgment that almost gets her killed.
I wish things had been developed with Jane's aunt just a little bit more -- I liked the genetic aspect of their "ability."
I'm an Angel Lawson fan now, and I'm looking forward to her next work. I'll definitely be reading.
January 27, 2017
Blargh.
I didn't hate it. But it never really grabbed me, you know?
It's like the author read a couple YA ghost novels, decided they seemed fun, and plunked out a cliched little novel. The writing's weak, a couple scenes are completely unnecessary, and the romance has no chemistry.
So our artsy, misunderstood heroine moves to a new school where's she's completely isolated and HAS NO FRIENDS (well, actually, she has three, but DRAMA). She meets the dark, brooding, handsome possibly-fresh-out-of-juvie love interest, who's all bravado and smirks but is vulnerable and emotional just around her, blah blah blah. They see ghosts, try to solve a mystery, and stick their nose into business that's not really their's.
Whew. I feel like I just needed to get all that off my chest. I've got a high tolerance for foolishness in characters, but this one makes Bella Swan in New Moon look healthy.
I didn't hate it. But it never really grabbed me, you know?
It's like the author read a couple YA ghost novels, decided they seemed fun, and plunked out a cliched little novel. The writing's weak, a couple scenes are completely unnecessary, and the romance has no chemistry.
So our artsy, misunderstood heroine moves to a new school where's she's completely isolated and HAS NO FRIENDS (well, actually, she has three, but DRAMA). She meets the dark, brooding, handsome possibly-fresh-out-of-juvie love interest, who's all bravado and smirks but is vulnerable and emotional just around her, blah blah blah. They see ghosts, try to solve a mystery, and stick their nose into business that's not really their's.
Whew. I feel like I just needed to get all that off my chest. I've got a high tolerance for foolishness in characters, but this one makes Bella Swan in New Moon look healthy.
March 22, 2012
Clear, concise writing style. I appreciate this. Believable dialogue and interactions. Despite the fact she sometimes frustrated me, i had such a soft spot for Jane... and I found Conner to be rather irresistible. Evan remained ghostly in both truth and his character status: he played such a huge part in the plot but wasn't always around. especially liked the way the writer fleshed out some of the other characters, like Ava. As secondaries, they never took over, but they weren't random either. She helped Jane come in to her own, right along with Conner.
The general arc of the story is somewhat traditional, but told with a fresh voice. i liked the inclusion of art; particularly graffiti and tagging, and especially the way this made an appearance at the very end.
I was surprised at how attached I got to these characters: mainly Jane and Evan. I wanted them to "win", to succeed. The way this was written, I could see another story following, and it would feel organic, not like an expected sequel.
The general arc of the story is somewhat traditional, but told with a fresh voice. i liked the inclusion of art; particularly graffiti and tagging, and especially the way this made an appearance at the very end.
I was surprised at how attached I got to these characters: mainly Jane and Evan. I wanted them to "win", to succeed. The way this was written, I could see another story following, and it would feel organic, not like an expected sequel.
February 22, 2013
I really liked this book. It wasn't as dark as I thought it was going to be(the title almost put me off the book.)I almost "slept" on this book, but as it was a pick in this month's
Books 4 Review , I grabbed it out of my Kindle archives (it very far down my to-read list)and got to it.
I will try and review without giving away too much, as the twists in this book depend on the secrets our characters are keeping.
I really liked the chemistry between Jane and her "guy". The love story was sweet and compelling despite the darkness lingering just beyond them. I liked that they allowed their circumstances to unite them rather than push them apart.
I thought the handling of such a brutal and sad topic (read the novel to learn more) was timely, emotionally appropriate and well illustrated.
The ending was well executed. Even though we know there is a book two, we are not left to wonder, yet our appetites are whet for more adventure.
Books 4 Review , I grabbed it out of my Kindle archives (it very far down my to-read list)and got to it.
I will try and review without giving away too much, as the twists in this book depend on the secrets our characters are keeping.
I really liked the chemistry between Jane and her "guy". The love story was sweet and compelling despite the darkness lingering just beyond them. I liked that they allowed their circumstances to unite them rather than push them apart.
I thought the handling of such a brutal and sad topic (read the novel to learn more) was timely, emotionally appropriate and well illustrated.
The ending was well executed. Even though we know there is a book two, we are not left to wonder, yet our appetites are whet for more adventure.
January 16, 2021
This is another book that I was lead to by my Type A tendencies. I came across the second book in the series on BookBub and downloaded it before realizing it was the second book in the series. It has sat in my queue until this year, when I decided (again) to read all the books downloaded to my Kindle. Since I could not read the second book prior to the first book, here we are. Thank goodness Scribd had the series on its app, so I did not need to spend any of my hard earned money to feed my self-diagnosed OCD. On to the review...
Pursuant to my 2-star rating, this book was okay. I actually did get sucked into the story a bit, just interested to see where the author was going to take things. It was not a bad story, though I have read most of the elements before, but the world building was not as detailed as I would have liked. I haven't researched this, but it struck me as a first novel. The writing was not terrible, but was a little uneven. Some of the supporting characters could have used a little more fleshing out and there was use of phrasing similar to "the week went by in a blur" which I find new authors use as an uncreative way to mark the passage of time. The two main characters were somewhat compelling, though I wish she would have stopped having the female protagonist burst into tears at the drop of a hat. It was appropriate at certain points in the story, but not as often as it occurred. Finally, it seemed like the love story moved a bit slow. I don't mean the delay in the first kiss, that part was fine and appropriate for them to build a basis for their relationship, but once they were together things went a lot slower on the intimacy front than is normal for an 18 year old boy and 17 year old girl. I don't think they even made it to second base by the end of the first book. That is what I mean by slow. Hormones are a mess at that age and without a religious reason holding things up, I have to imagine the male lead would have been trying to get in Jane's pants quicker, especially when the author describes him as a player on multiple occasions. Just my thoughts. Perhaps I read too many spicy novels and am just biased towards physical expressions of burgeoning attraction. At any rate, I will read the next book in the series, though I am not sure if my Type A tendencies will force completion of the trilogy if that one ends up with a 2-star rating, as well.
Pursuant to my 2-star rating, this book was okay. I actually did get sucked into the story a bit, just interested to see where the author was going to take things. It was not a bad story, though I have read most of the elements before, but the world building was not as detailed as I would have liked. I haven't researched this, but it struck me as a first novel. The writing was not terrible, but was a little uneven. Some of the supporting characters could have used a little more fleshing out and there was use of phrasing similar to "the week went by in a blur" which I find new authors use as an uncreative way to mark the passage of time. The two main characters were somewhat compelling, though I wish she would have stopped having the female protagonist burst into tears at the drop of a hat. It was appropriate at certain points in the story, but not as often as it occurred. Finally, it seemed like the love story moved a bit slow. I don't mean the delay in the first kiss, that part was fine and appropriate for them to build a basis for their relationship, but once they were together things went a lot slower on the intimacy front than is normal for an 18 year old boy and 17 year old girl. I don't think they even made it to second base by the end of the first book. That is what I mean by slow. Hormones are a mess at that age and without a religious reason holding things up, I have to imagine the male lead would have been trying to get in Jane's pants quicker, especially when the author describes him as a player on multiple occasions. Just my thoughts. Perhaps I read too many spicy novels and am just biased towards physical expressions of burgeoning attraction. At any rate, I will read the next book in the series, though I am not sure if my Type A tendencies will force completion of the trilogy if that one ends up with a 2-star rating, as well.
May 27, 2018
Terrific. So glad I picked this one up.
October 1, 2013
What a story! I absolutely loved 'Wraith' by Angel Lawson. 'Wraith' was received by myself gratefully in return for an honest review. And in all honesty, I found 'Wraith' to be a refreshing read with some dark and emotional areas. Aimed at an audience for young adults, this novel suits it's audience's needs perfectly, but is also quite a nice read for adults alike.
Not too short and not too long, this novel is just right with some great characters. Jane is the main character. At seventeen she is outcast as a weirdo, a freak, for talking to herself and behaving in a strange manner both in and around school. Little do people know that she is seeing and interacting with Evan, a ghost and her new best friend. Jane spends most of her time with Evan and they have a very close bond. However, when Connor begins Jane's school she is not the only one who can see Evan. And Connor, having had connections with ghosts himself, is aware that Evan may not only be around Jane for her friendship but also needs her assistance to help his spirit move on. Whilst Jane is not ready to accept this, she eventually realises the truth, needing to help Evan's mum and sisters escape from an abusive partner/stepfather-type, John.
The reader really feels sympathy towards Jane as it must be difficult for a young person trying to make new friends in a new town, at the same time as having to get used to a new school, leaving her old friends behind and being laughed at by her new classmates. Jane is very brave and holds her own reasonably well.
Connor, on the other hand, is familiar with the school as he used to attend it before. He has friends and is quite popular as some would prefer not to say a bad word against him due to rumours of his previous delinquent behaviour. He is seen as the bad boy at school, but a stunner and a charmer all the same. He can be quite sweet and he understands the situation that Jane is in with Evan.
Throughout the novel the reader experiences a great deal of doubt from Jane and mistrust for Connor. These feelings twist from one way to the other. The reader is constantly kept on their toes in regard to Connor. But as he's so hot you want to trust him and hope that he means well.
Evan is a troubled spirit who is trapped as he hasn't moved on in the spiritual world. He uses his time looking out for Jane and being a close friend to her. Thus, making company for both of them. However, Evan is worried about the well-being of his mother and sisters. He is a character that needs to be mothered and the reader just wants to wrap him up in cotton wool - if that is at all possible - and show him some affection.
My favourite character is Jeannie, Jane's aunt. She is an artist and a hippy-type character. She seems very flighty and free. When she sees Jane she notices her aura and is aware that 'death' is following her around. Jeannie is definitely a character that could grow with this series and play more of a crucial role in Jane's life by allowing Jane to confide in her. Jeannie is very spiritual with an elderly mother who shares Jane's gift. I would love these characters to develop more and possibly add more humour and support for Jane.
There are some dark action scenes in this novel, nothing too graphic or terrifying, as Angel Lawson writes these scenes very carefully to target her attended audience. These scenes were great and intense as the reader can do nothing but hope for a great outcome. John, the abusive partner to Evan's mum is an awful character as you could imagine an abusive man to be. Without spoiling the story too much, there are a couple of times he follows Jane. I would have liked more detail at these points to confirm how he knew about where and when Jane would be. Maybe I missed this but I felt that these scenes, even though very exciting and tense, come upon the reader very quickly without too much explanation.
I think that 'Wraith' is quite original, written well and easy to read. There is one scene, involving a key, that reminded me of the film 'Ghost' where Patrick Swayze's spirit character, Sam Wheat, is able to pick up a penny and balance it on his finger towards his living wife, played by Demi Moore. It is really quite an emotional read in both sad and happy ways. I would like to read the sequel 'Shadow Bound' which is available now. So until then "later"!
Not too short and not too long, this novel is just right with some great characters. Jane is the main character. At seventeen she is outcast as a weirdo, a freak, for talking to herself and behaving in a strange manner both in and around school. Little do people know that she is seeing and interacting with Evan, a ghost and her new best friend. Jane spends most of her time with Evan and they have a very close bond. However, when Connor begins Jane's school she is not the only one who can see Evan. And Connor, having had connections with ghosts himself, is aware that Evan may not only be around Jane for her friendship but also needs her assistance to help his spirit move on. Whilst Jane is not ready to accept this, she eventually realises the truth, needing to help Evan's mum and sisters escape from an abusive partner/stepfather-type, John.
The reader really feels sympathy towards Jane as it must be difficult for a young person trying to make new friends in a new town, at the same time as having to get used to a new school, leaving her old friends behind and being laughed at by her new classmates. Jane is very brave and holds her own reasonably well.
Connor, on the other hand, is familiar with the school as he used to attend it before. He has friends and is quite popular as some would prefer not to say a bad word against him due to rumours of his previous delinquent behaviour. He is seen as the bad boy at school, but a stunner and a charmer all the same. He can be quite sweet and he understands the situation that Jane is in with Evan.
Throughout the novel the reader experiences a great deal of doubt from Jane and mistrust for Connor. These feelings twist from one way to the other. The reader is constantly kept on their toes in regard to Connor. But as he's so hot you want to trust him and hope that he means well.
Evan is a troubled spirit who is trapped as he hasn't moved on in the spiritual world. He uses his time looking out for Jane and being a close friend to her. Thus, making company for both of them. However, Evan is worried about the well-being of his mother and sisters. He is a character that needs to be mothered and the reader just wants to wrap him up in cotton wool - if that is at all possible - and show him some affection.
My favourite character is Jeannie, Jane's aunt. She is an artist and a hippy-type character. She seems very flighty and free. When she sees Jane she notices her aura and is aware that 'death' is following her around. Jeannie is definitely a character that could grow with this series and play more of a crucial role in Jane's life by allowing Jane to confide in her. Jeannie is very spiritual with an elderly mother who shares Jane's gift. I would love these characters to develop more and possibly add more humour and support for Jane.
There are some dark action scenes in this novel, nothing too graphic or terrifying, as Angel Lawson writes these scenes very carefully to target her attended audience. These scenes were great and intense as the reader can do nothing but hope for a great outcome. John, the abusive partner to Evan's mum is an awful character as you could imagine an abusive man to be. Without spoiling the story too much, there are a couple of times he follows Jane. I would have liked more detail at these points to confirm how he knew about where and when Jane would be. Maybe I missed this but I felt that these scenes, even though very exciting and tense, come upon the reader very quickly without too much explanation.
I think that 'Wraith' is quite original, written well and easy to read. There is one scene, involving a key, that reminded me of the film 'Ghost' where Patrick Swayze's spirit character, Sam Wheat, is able to pick up a penny and balance it on his finger towards his living wife, played by Demi Moore. It is really quite an emotional read in both sad and happy ways. I would like to read the sequel 'Shadow Bound' which is available now. So until then "later"!
June 4, 2025
Actual 3.5 rating because I really loved Connor and Evan.
This review was also posted here at The Book Hookup: http://thebookhookup.com/2012/05/10/w...
Let me start this review by saying that despite what the description stated, when I picked up Wraith, I thought I was reading a ghost story; i.e., a book that would spook me out of my mind and have me cuddling up next to my husband after I was finished. The story that I actually got was something completely unexpected and more heartbreaking than scary.
The Low-Down: Jane is considered a social outcast by her peers, mainly because of a very public fight between her and her best friend, Evan. Normally fighting between besties wouldn’t label you a social pariah, but Jane is the only person who can see and hear him. You see, Evan is dead, a ghost trapped between this world and the next, and for some unknown reason, there’s a strong connection that wires him directly to Jane.
After many months of blending in and shying away from the spotlight, Jane has managed a certain level of anonymity amongst her classmates and has kept her ghostly interactions to a minimum in front of witnesses. However, that all quickly changes when the rumored bad boy returns to school. More shocking than his good looks is the fact that he tells Jane he can see Evan, too, and that, in his experience, ghosts usually want more than just companionship. If this is true, then everything Jane thought she knew is about to turn upside down. Could this juvenile delinquent, Connor, really be trying to help her out or is just using her social vulnerability to get underneath her skin?
Author Ego-booster: The author definitely captures the spirit and temperament of the everyday teenager. Often times in young adult, I find that characters come off as snotty, pretentious adults trapped in a child’s body with teenage hormones thrown in for good measure. Each of Lawson’s characters had a voice unique to them and characteristics and flaws that made them believable. The best way to make me fall in love with your book is to make me fall in love with your characters, and to to do that, they have to feel real.
I really adored Connor and Evan. Connor was a little rough around the edges in the beginning, a bit confrontational. Slowly though, he showed more depth and vulnerability, and his annoyingly persistent efforts to get Jane to befriend him made me quite fond of his charm. As far as Evan goes, you couldn’t have asked for a better friend, even if he is invisible. He was loyal and protective, made Jane laugh and smile when she thought it was impossible, and filled the lonely void in her life. I’d be lying if I didn’t say these two influenced my shelf rating just a tiny amount.
Drawbacks: Yes, Jane has a distinct voice, but it was often her anger toward Connor that I found a little frustrating. At times her hostility seemed a tad irrational, but in the end I was able to write it off because of Jane’s trust issues.
Another small (Seriously, it’s tiny.) hangup that I had with Wraith was a few noticeable editing issues. There was the occasional missing and/or misplaced word and a few punctuation errors, but even major publications with serious-business editors have these, so it wasn’t anything I couldn’t look over.
Special Notes: ***Possibly Spoilerish*** I went into this story mostly blind, not having read any reviews and without any expectations to where this book was headed. In the description, Lawson alludes to Evan’s tragic death and the danger his family remains in, but I guess I’m just not very good at putting two and two together. So, if you have trouble dealing with domestic violence, be warned that there is some in this story. It’s nothing overly graphic, but having been subjected to that type of violence in my childhood, it struck a very personal note for me.
Verdict: Angel Lawson’s debut novel was a good, quick read. She wrote a refreshing take on ghosts and the people they “haunt.” By the end, which was left relatively open, I still wanted more time with Jane and Connor. If she chooses to write more from them, the chances are high that I’ll want to read it.
This review was also posted here at The Book Hookup: http://thebookhookup.com/2012/05/10/w...
Let me start this review by saying that despite what the description stated, when I picked up Wraith, I thought I was reading a ghost story; i.e., a book that would spook me out of my mind and have me cuddling up next to my husband after I was finished. The story that I actually got was something completely unexpected and more heartbreaking than scary.
The Low-Down: Jane is considered a social outcast by her peers, mainly because of a very public fight between her and her best friend, Evan. Normally fighting between besties wouldn’t label you a social pariah, but Jane is the only person who can see and hear him. You see, Evan is dead, a ghost trapped between this world and the next, and for some unknown reason, there’s a strong connection that wires him directly to Jane.
After many months of blending in and shying away from the spotlight, Jane has managed a certain level of anonymity amongst her classmates and has kept her ghostly interactions to a minimum in front of witnesses. However, that all quickly changes when the rumored bad boy returns to school. More shocking than his good looks is the fact that he tells Jane he can see Evan, too, and that, in his experience, ghosts usually want more than just companionship. If this is true, then everything Jane thought she knew is about to turn upside down. Could this juvenile delinquent, Connor, really be trying to help her out or is just using her social vulnerability to get underneath her skin?
Author Ego-booster: The author definitely captures the spirit and temperament of the everyday teenager. Often times in young adult, I find that characters come off as snotty, pretentious adults trapped in a child’s body with teenage hormones thrown in for good measure. Each of Lawson’s characters had a voice unique to them and characteristics and flaws that made them believable. The best way to make me fall in love with your book is to make me fall in love with your characters, and to to do that, they have to feel real.
I really adored Connor and Evan. Connor was a little rough around the edges in the beginning, a bit confrontational. Slowly though, he showed more depth and vulnerability, and his annoyingly persistent efforts to get Jane to befriend him made me quite fond of his charm. As far as Evan goes, you couldn’t have asked for a better friend, even if he is invisible. He was loyal and protective, made Jane laugh and smile when she thought it was impossible, and filled the lonely void in her life. I’d be lying if I didn’t say these two influenced my shelf rating just a tiny amount.
Drawbacks: Yes, Jane has a distinct voice, but it was often her anger toward Connor that I found a little frustrating. At times her hostility seemed a tad irrational, but in the end I was able to write it off because of Jane’s trust issues.
Another small (Seriously, it’s tiny.) hangup that I had with Wraith was a few noticeable editing issues. There was the occasional missing and/or misplaced word and a few punctuation errors, but even major publications with serious-business editors have these, so it wasn’t anything I couldn’t look over.
Special Notes: ***Possibly Spoilerish*** I went into this story mostly blind, not having read any reviews and without any expectations to where this book was headed. In the description, Lawson alludes to Evan’s tragic death and the danger his family remains in, but I guess I’m just not very good at putting two and two together. So, if you have trouble dealing with domestic violence, be warned that there is some in this story. It’s nothing overly graphic, but having been subjected to that type of violence in my childhood, it struck a very personal note for me.
Verdict: Angel Lawson’s debut novel was a good, quick read. She wrote a refreshing take on ghosts and the people they “haunt.” By the end, which was left relatively open, I still wanted more time with Jane and Connor. If she chooses to write more from them, the chances are high that I’ll want to read it.
May 17, 2012
**note** This book was given to The Book Hookup to read but it did not in any way influence this review.
Christina: Let me start this review by saying that despite what the description stated, when I picked up Wraith, I thought I was reading a ghost story; i.e., a book that would spook me out of my mind and have me cuddling up next to my husband after I was finished. The story that I actually got was something completely unexpected and more heartbreaking than scary.
The Low-Down: Jane is considered a social outcast by her peers, mainly because of a very public fight between her and her best friend, Evan. Normally fighting between besties wouldn’t label you a social pariah, but Jane is the only person who can see and hear him. You see, Evan is dead, a ghost trapped between this world and the next, and for some unknown reason, there’s a strong connection that wires him directly to Jane.
After many months of blending in and shying away from the spotlight, Jane has managed a certain level of anonymity amongst her classmates and has kept her ghostly interactions to a minimum in front of witnesses. However, that all quickly changes when the rumored bad boy returns to school. More shocking than his good looks is the fact that he tells Jane he can see Evan, too, and that, in his experience, ghosts usually want more than just companionship. If this is true, then everything Jane thought she knew is about to turn upside down. Could this juvenile delinquent, Connor, really be trying to help her out or is just using her social vulnerability to get underneath her skin?
Author Ego-booster: The author definitely captures the spirit and temperament of the everyday teenager. Often times in young adult, I find that characters come off as snotty, pretentious adults trapped in a child’s body with teenage hormones thrown in for good measure. Each of Lawson’s characters had a voice unique to them and characteristics and flaws that made them believable. The best way to make me fall in love with your book is to make me fall in love with your characters, and to to do that, they have to feel real.
I really adored Connor and Evan. Connor was a little rough around the edges in the beginning, a bit confrontational. Slowly though, he showed more depth and vulnerability, and his annoyingly persistent efforts to get Jane to befriend him made me quite fond of his charm. As far as Evan goes, you couldn’t have asked for a better friend, even if he is invisible. He was loyal and protective, made Jane laugh and smile when she thought it was impossible, and filled the lonely void in her life. I’d be lying if I didn’t say these two influenced my shelf rating just a tiny amount.
Drawbacks: Yes, Jane has a distinct voice, but it was often her anger toward Connor that I found a little frustrating. At times her hostility seemed a tad irrational, but in the end I was able to write it off because of Jane’s trust issues.
Another small (Seriously, it’s tiny.) hangup that I had with Wraith was a few noticeable editing issues. There was the occasional missing and/or misplaced word and a few punctuation errors, but even major publications with serious-business editors have these, so it wasn’t anything I couldn’t look over.
Special Notes: ***Possibly Spoilerish*** I went into this story mostly blind, not having read any reviews and without any expectations to where this book was headed. In the description, Lawson alludes to Evan’s tragic death and the danger his family remains in, but I guess I’m just not very good at putting two and two together. So, if you have trouble dealing with domestic violence, be warned that there is some in this story. It’s nothing overly graphic, but having been subjected to that type of violence in my childhood, it struck a very personal note for me.
Verdict: Angel Lawson’s debut novel was a good, quick read. She wrote a refreshing take on ghosts and the people they “haunt.” By the end, which was left relatively open, I still wanted more time with Jane and Connor. If she chooses to write more from them, the chances are high that I’ll want to read it.
Christina: Let me start this review by saying that despite what the description stated, when I picked up Wraith, I thought I was reading a ghost story; i.e., a book that would spook me out of my mind and have me cuddling up next to my husband after I was finished. The story that I actually got was something completely unexpected and more heartbreaking than scary.
The Low-Down: Jane is considered a social outcast by her peers, mainly because of a very public fight between her and her best friend, Evan. Normally fighting between besties wouldn’t label you a social pariah, but Jane is the only person who can see and hear him. You see, Evan is dead, a ghost trapped between this world and the next, and for some unknown reason, there’s a strong connection that wires him directly to Jane.
After many months of blending in and shying away from the spotlight, Jane has managed a certain level of anonymity amongst her classmates and has kept her ghostly interactions to a minimum in front of witnesses. However, that all quickly changes when the rumored bad boy returns to school. More shocking than his good looks is the fact that he tells Jane he can see Evan, too, and that, in his experience, ghosts usually want more than just companionship. If this is true, then everything Jane thought she knew is about to turn upside down. Could this juvenile delinquent, Connor, really be trying to help her out or is just using her social vulnerability to get underneath her skin?
Author Ego-booster: The author definitely captures the spirit and temperament of the everyday teenager. Often times in young adult, I find that characters come off as snotty, pretentious adults trapped in a child’s body with teenage hormones thrown in for good measure. Each of Lawson’s characters had a voice unique to them and characteristics and flaws that made them believable. The best way to make me fall in love with your book is to make me fall in love with your characters, and to to do that, they have to feel real.
I really adored Connor and Evan. Connor was a little rough around the edges in the beginning, a bit confrontational. Slowly though, he showed more depth and vulnerability, and his annoyingly persistent efforts to get Jane to befriend him made me quite fond of his charm. As far as Evan goes, you couldn’t have asked for a better friend, even if he is invisible. He was loyal and protective, made Jane laugh and smile when she thought it was impossible, and filled the lonely void in her life. I’d be lying if I didn’t say these two influenced my shelf rating just a tiny amount.
Drawbacks: Yes, Jane has a distinct voice, but it was often her anger toward Connor that I found a little frustrating. At times her hostility seemed a tad irrational, but in the end I was able to write it off because of Jane’s trust issues.
Another small (Seriously, it’s tiny.) hangup that I had with Wraith was a few noticeable editing issues. There was the occasional missing and/or misplaced word and a few punctuation errors, but even major publications with serious-business editors have these, so it wasn’t anything I couldn’t look over.
Special Notes: ***Possibly Spoilerish*** I went into this story mostly blind, not having read any reviews and without any expectations to where this book was headed. In the description, Lawson alludes to Evan’s tragic death and the danger his family remains in, but I guess I’m just not very good at putting two and two together. So, if you have trouble dealing with domestic violence, be warned that there is some in this story. It’s nothing overly graphic, but having been subjected to that type of violence in my childhood, it struck a very personal note for me.
Verdict: Angel Lawson’s debut novel was a good, quick read. She wrote a refreshing take on ghosts and the people they “haunt.” By the end, which was left relatively open, I still wanted more time with Jane and Connor. If she chooses to write more from them, the chances are high that I’ll want to read it.
June 20, 2012
Choice #1: Messy dark hair. Piercing blue eyes. Broad shoulders. Recovering delinquent. Choice #2: Curly blond hair. Dimpled chin. Boyish grin. Dead.
Jane Watts’ parents have given it all up - the suburbs, working as lawyers. They don’t even wait for Jane’s school year to finish, all three of them landing in the city so they can open up their antique store. It’s hard enough for Jane to make new friends, but when she starts seeing Evan, it is both a blessing and a curse. At least she has someone to talk to, right? Despite the fact that he’s a ghost, and no one else can see him? Eventually she crosses over to official “freak” when she has a huge argument with Evan. At school. In the middle of a crowded hallway. After trying to explain what she is seeing to her parents and they take her to a psychologist, she realizes that it is safest to keep it all to herself.
There’s a boy at school, though he looks more man than boy. Returning to school after being gone for a year, Jane hears the rumors about Connor and his stint in a hospital after trying to burn his house down. Unlike her, he seems to get a free pass, though; people are either scared of him or drawn to his good looks. One day Jane sees Connor staring at her - well, not her, exactly...behind her. At Evan.
Connor tries to talk to Jane about Evan, but she assumes he is making fun of her and her “freak” status at school. Eventually, he shares his own experiences with ghosts and talks about how they seek him out to help them. When Jane tells him that Evan doesn’t want anything, that they are friends, Connor tells her that Evan has to want something; he’s stuck between worlds. This revelation leaves Jane determined to find out the truth about Evan’s death and to help those he left behind, whether he wants her to or not. Jane finds a strength she didn’t know she had to start righting the wrongs that she can, being herself with her parents and trusting someone who loves her.
Wraith is a ghost story with strength, love, trust and determination. The characters were all three-dimensional and real. Jane’s outcast status due to something she couldn’t control or understand was wrenching. Just enough twists and turns to keep you guessing, but not enough to make one’s head pop off. I have said this about other books, and it is true here as well: I forgot I was reading, I was so into the story. I highly recommend this read.
Will there be more Jane and Connor? It seems like every book is a series these days. I remember reading a great book when I was a kid and wishing I knew what happened next. Other than Nancy Drew and Little House on the Prairie, seems like most kids books were one-offs. Sometimes it’s best to leave a story because all of the secrets have been told and the second volume would not be able to hold up its own weight. I have no idea if Ms. Lawson will write any more with these characters, but I think encounters with other ghosts could be very interesting. I do know one thing for sure: Kristen Stewart will NOT be playing Jane in the movie.
4 of 5 Stars
Ages: 14 and up
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy Paranormal
Wraith by Angel Lawson was published February 6, 2012 by CreateSpace.
Jane Watts’ parents have given it all up - the suburbs, working as lawyers. They don’t even wait for Jane’s school year to finish, all three of them landing in the city so they can open up their antique store. It’s hard enough for Jane to make new friends, but when she starts seeing Evan, it is both a blessing and a curse. At least she has someone to talk to, right? Despite the fact that he’s a ghost, and no one else can see him? Eventually she crosses over to official “freak” when she has a huge argument with Evan. At school. In the middle of a crowded hallway. After trying to explain what she is seeing to her parents and they take her to a psychologist, she realizes that it is safest to keep it all to herself.
There’s a boy at school, though he looks more man than boy. Returning to school after being gone for a year, Jane hears the rumors about Connor and his stint in a hospital after trying to burn his house down. Unlike her, he seems to get a free pass, though; people are either scared of him or drawn to his good looks. One day Jane sees Connor staring at her - well, not her, exactly...behind her. At Evan.
Connor tries to talk to Jane about Evan, but she assumes he is making fun of her and her “freak” status at school. Eventually, he shares his own experiences with ghosts and talks about how they seek him out to help them. When Jane tells him that Evan doesn’t want anything, that they are friends, Connor tells her that Evan has to want something; he’s stuck between worlds. This revelation leaves Jane determined to find out the truth about Evan’s death and to help those he left behind, whether he wants her to or not. Jane finds a strength she didn’t know she had to start righting the wrongs that she can, being herself with her parents and trusting someone who loves her.
Wraith is a ghost story with strength, love, trust and determination. The characters were all three-dimensional and real. Jane’s outcast status due to something she couldn’t control or understand was wrenching. Just enough twists and turns to keep you guessing, but not enough to make one’s head pop off. I have said this about other books, and it is true here as well: I forgot I was reading, I was so into the story. I highly recommend this read.
Will there be more Jane and Connor? It seems like every book is a series these days. I remember reading a great book when I was a kid and wishing I knew what happened next. Other than Nancy Drew and Little House on the Prairie, seems like most kids books were one-offs. Sometimes it’s best to leave a story because all of the secrets have been told and the second volume would not be able to hold up its own weight. I have no idea if Ms. Lawson will write any more with these characters, but I think encounters with other ghosts could be very interesting. I do know one thing for sure: Kristen Stewart will NOT be playing Jane in the movie.
4 of 5 Stars
Ages: 14 and up
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy Paranormal
Wraith by Angel Lawson was published February 6, 2012 by CreateSpace.
April 21, 2012
Jane is a Junior who has earned the title of freak at her (fairly) new school. Why? Because she sees and talks to ghosts. Or on ghost, rather. But nobody knows that. Now she walks on eggshells, trying to ignore her best friend/ghost/wraith, Evan, as she goes throughout her day, trying to act as normal as possible. Only when they are alone can she really be herself. Even her parents don't want to hear about this difficult situation. Jane feels completely alone, with the exception of Evan, until Conner shows up.
Conner is an incredibly good looking guy, cocky and self-assured. To her chagrin, he slips right into the social stratosphere in a way Jane was never able to. She hears rumors about him: he's fresh out of boot camp; the mental hospital, etc. Whatever his story, she is sure he is nothing but trouble. She is left confused and terrified when he confronts her on her personal ghost problem, and determines to keep far away from him to protect herself. Only, Conner has no intention of backing off.
The plot was very simple and straightforward. To be honest, I really liked that. Sometimes you just need something simple. It doesn't always need to be fussy or over the top plotting that makes you feel like a shelp for not having thought of this or that for your own story. It was very sweet and endearing, the connection Jane had with both boys. I will say it was a bit irritating that Jane resisted Conner to the extent that she did. It was obvious that he was a good guy that meant well, and she was acting like a wench that needed a dose of reality. Frankly, she was lucky that another girl didn't scoop him up while she was playing her "Sure, we're cool" "No, I don't want anything to do with you ever again" games. The whole story flowed really well, though, and I could feel the emotions tied to each character, which is a great accomplishment for any writer. The author wove the tough issue of domestic violence into the mix and brought it all together seamlessly.
There were some minor errors, like tense problems and missing words, and there were a few areas that I think the repetitive wording could have been varied a bit more, but nothing that made me want to stop reading or really affected my impression of the story itself. Mistakes happen, even to the best editors. I think for an indie, this author did amazingly well. This wasn't a spin chiller by any means, but more a tender romance full of heart and soul. I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys a good YA and ghostly influence.
Conner is an incredibly good looking guy, cocky and self-assured. To her chagrin, he slips right into the social stratosphere in a way Jane was never able to. She hears rumors about him: he's fresh out of boot camp; the mental hospital, etc. Whatever his story, she is sure he is nothing but trouble. She is left confused and terrified when he confronts her on her personal ghost problem, and determines to keep far away from him to protect herself. Only, Conner has no intention of backing off.
The plot was very simple and straightforward. To be honest, I really liked that. Sometimes you just need something simple. It doesn't always need to be fussy or over the top plotting that makes you feel like a shelp for not having thought of this or that for your own story. It was very sweet and endearing, the connection Jane had with both boys. I will say it was a bit irritating that Jane resisted Conner to the extent that she did. It was obvious that he was a good guy that meant well, and she was acting like a wench that needed a dose of reality. Frankly, she was lucky that another girl didn't scoop him up while she was playing her "Sure, we're cool" "No, I don't want anything to do with you ever again" games. The whole story flowed really well, though, and I could feel the emotions tied to each character, which is a great accomplishment for any writer. The author wove the tough issue of domestic violence into the mix and brought it all together seamlessly.
There were some minor errors, like tense problems and missing words, and there were a few areas that I think the repetitive wording could have been varied a bit more, but nothing that made me want to stop reading or really affected my impression of the story itself. Mistakes happen, even to the best editors. I think for an indie, this author did amazingly well. This wasn't a spin chiller by any means, but more a tender romance full of heart and soul. I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys a good YA and ghostly influence.
April 29, 2012
3 ½ stars
Seventeen year old Jane Watts is struggling to fit in at school, a challenge for any teenager, but a bit of a nightmare when one’s best friend is a ghost. Jane is alone and confused, unable to understand why the spirit of this gentle boy, Evan, has chosen to make itself known to her, until Connor, a handsome and charming, but possibly dangerous, student, rumored to be returned from a stint in juvie, asks her about her otherworldly friend whom he, too, can apparently see. As Jane’s relationship with Connor develops in light of the secret they both share, the two become entangled in the danger that stole Evan’s life.
I found Wraith to be an extremely enjoyable YA paranormal romance with a very likable hero – Connor, the “bad boy” who isn’t really bad at all. The heroine, at times, seemed a little overly-hostile to Connor’s wish to help her and to his obvious caring for her, but it was understandable for the most part, considering why she had such trust issues, and I loved Jane’s unique voice and personality – she was smart, funny and realistically-portrayed. The pacing of the story was great and the character development very well done; both the mystery and the relationship between Jane and Connor evolved naturally over time. I also really liked the mix of light humor with the more serious, emotional story, as well as the art aspect and descriptions of graffiti art. The only difficulty I had with the story, and the thing that keeps me from giving it a higher rating (although I upped my star rating to four because I did enjoy the story so much), is that there were a number of noticeable editing issues, like missing words and/or punctuation and the like. This didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment of the story, but there were a few more mistakes beyond the typo here or there. I still recommend it to fans of YA ghost stories because it is an easy and good read that smoothly combines the paranormal and romance elements and, although I think another copyedit of Wraith would be beneficial, I believe Angel Lawson is a talented author with an original voice and I look forward to reading more from her.
Seventeen year old Jane Watts is struggling to fit in at school, a challenge for any teenager, but a bit of a nightmare when one’s best friend is a ghost. Jane is alone and confused, unable to understand why the spirit of this gentle boy, Evan, has chosen to make itself known to her, until Connor, a handsome and charming, but possibly dangerous, student, rumored to be returned from a stint in juvie, asks her about her otherworldly friend whom he, too, can apparently see. As Jane’s relationship with Connor develops in light of the secret they both share, the two become entangled in the danger that stole Evan’s life.
I found Wraith to be an extremely enjoyable YA paranormal romance with a very likable hero – Connor, the “bad boy” who isn’t really bad at all. The heroine, at times, seemed a little overly-hostile to Connor’s wish to help her and to his obvious caring for her, but it was understandable for the most part, considering why she had such trust issues, and I loved Jane’s unique voice and personality – she was smart, funny and realistically-portrayed. The pacing of the story was great and the character development very well done; both the mystery and the relationship between Jane and Connor evolved naturally over time. I also really liked the mix of light humor with the more serious, emotional story, as well as the art aspect and descriptions of graffiti art. The only difficulty I had with the story, and the thing that keeps me from giving it a higher rating (although I upped my star rating to four because I did enjoy the story so much), is that there were a number of noticeable editing issues, like missing words and/or punctuation and the like. This didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment of the story, but there were a few more mistakes beyond the typo here or there. I still recommend it to fans of YA ghost stories because it is an easy and good read that smoothly combines the paranormal and romance elements and, although I think another copyedit of Wraith would be beneficial, I believe Angel Lawson is a talented author with an original voice and I look forward to reading more from her.
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