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migimon2002's review against another edition
4.0
This was a cute fantasy/sci-fi read that would be great for middle grade readers. It reminded me A LOT of Buffy the Vampire Slayer (only not as intense). I felt it had solid character development, and I enjoyed the overall creation of the “world” in which the novel is set. My only complaint is the build up to the monster battle was so huge that, when we finally reached the climax, the finish was only a pinch of pages so therefore somewhat disappointing - - definitely would’ve liked more monster crushing throughout. Lol. However, I’m kind of sensing King may have more Laura books planned for the future...
msvenner's review against another edition
4.0
This is a great little book, likely the start of a series. It combines fantasy with some of the painful realities of being a preteen girl. This will definitely be on my recommendation list for girls, maybe boys too, aged 11-13.
evaosterlee's review
adventurous
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
ljrinaldi's review against another edition
4.0
Surprisingly good. This book was described as a middle school take on Buffy the vampire slayer. I wasn't sure where it was going to go though and was happily surprised by some of the twists and turns.
I love that Laura, the protagonist, is fat. And she isn't forced on a diet or made to lose weight before she can do anything, such as make new friends or discover her destiny.
Good fat positive story about dealing with bullies normal and supernatural.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
I love that Laura, the protagonist, is fat. And she isn't forced on a diet or made to lose weight before she can do anything, such as make new friends or discover her destiny.
Good fat positive story about dealing with bullies normal and supernatural.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
herbalmoon's review against another edition
4.0
Quite good once it warmed up. One Freaking Big Plothole, though:
Oh and the one thing that really, really drove me nuts? A book that takes place in the U.S., but has non-American spellings and measurements. I was certain it took place in England or Canada until it was stated that Lee came from Canada.
Spoiler
Laine was gone for what, four months when he was kidnapped? And Sandra never called Laura's parents once in that time to share her fears? That mysterious lack of communication would've made me worry something had happened to her and the kids if it wasn't for their brief appearance after Laura and her family moved to Riverfield.Oh and the one thing that really, really drove me nuts? A book that takes place in the U.S., but has non-American spellings and measurements. I was certain it took place in England or Canada until it was stated that Lee came from Canada.
jenna0010's review against another edition
5.0
Laura feels powerless and self-conscious in a middle school world of bullies and cliques. When she falls below her house into a world of darkness, thrown into the role of a girl who must destroy the darkness, she discovers bravery and tenacity. I loved this coming of age story -- it was tender and odd in all the right ways. Would very much recommend.
qtdede's review against another edition
3.0
When I look back at middle school, I see myself at my weakest. I hadn't yet grasped the concept of loving, understanding, and appreciating myself. Because of this, I felt insecure and self-conscious all the time. Laura Ledwick, the protagonist, is thirteen. She's used to other kids calling her names because of her larger size. Worried about her, her parents decided they move to a new town. Now Laura must deal with being a new kid and the odd noises that seem to be coming from her closet every night.
When I first started reading this book, I was annoyed with the writing style. But the more I read on, the more I enjoyed the story Wesley King created. He did a great job of balancing the fantasy world and the contemporary one.
If you're around the age of 13, or you're looking for a good balance between fantasy and contemporary this is the book for you. I gave this book a 3.5/5 stars. I'm glad I got the chance to review this book. Thank you, NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
When I first started reading this book, I was annoyed with the writing style. But the more I read on, the more I enjoyed the story Wesley King created. He did a great job of balancing the fantasy world and the contemporary one.
If you're around the age of 13, or you're looking for a good balance between fantasy and contemporary this is the book for you. I gave this book a 3.5/5 stars. I'm glad I got the chance to review this book. Thank you, NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
skundrik87's review against another edition
2.0
Did not have anything unique about it, and the fact that she had broken ribs and never had to go see a doctor about that at the end really annoyed me.
paper_elytra's review against another edition
3.0
I liked this book. Definitely tones of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but with a middle school sensibility. I appreciated the little plot twists that kept the story compelling. Laura's character arc really impressed me, as she dealt with her fears and insecurities around being bullied.