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The Accidental Siren (2012)

by Jake Vander Ark(Favorite Author)
4.36 of 5 Votes: 1
ISBN
110576656X (ISBN13: 9781105766565)
languge
English
genre
publisher
Lulu.com
series
Blank Canvas Series
review 1: Amazing. Breathtaking. Thought-provoking. These words seem so banal in describing the beauty of this novel. I literally just finished it yesterday. I came upon it by chance and, being an avid coming-of-age novel reader, I decided to check it out. One of the best reading decisions I ever made in my life.Where to begin? The beginning is probably my favorite part of the novel. Life in the early 90's is described with startling accuracy. I actually felt as if I had gone back in time. The character of James is just so perfect and honest. My favorite character in the novel. The author has captured the essence of a 12 year old growing up in the 90's who is forced to mature too quickly perfectly. It strongly reminds me of Stephen King's The Body, which is high praise in itself. Th... moree family is described in such a real and honest way that I was almost convinced they were real people, not merely characters. The entire novel seems to be an actual autobiography, which adds unusual realism to the myth of sirens. I actually started to believe, half way through the novel, that sirens could be real. The mixture of realism and the myth of sirens is done in a brilliant way. Simply brilliant. The character of Olivia was also one of my favorites because it reminded the reader of the racism that was rampant in the early 90's. The climax left me open mouthed and speechless. I was in awe of the author for creating such a superb climax to the story. The build-up was full of tension and suspense and exploded into a climax that blew my mind. One of my most memorable experiences as a reader. This is such an unusually original story. Growing up in the 90's and a siren is a combination I doubt has ever been thought of before. Definitely added on the list of my all-time favorite novels.
review 2: The best books are the ones you can't stop reading. You just have to know what is going to happen next. The Accidental Siren is all of that. Vander Ark has created a story that you can't stop reading with characters that you love and hate. James, the leading character, is adorable and you just want to hug him. Mara is alluring and psychotic all at the same time. I love complex characters and all of these were point on in their multi-layered personalities.I have to admit I was reluctant to read this story. I don't enjoy pubescent love stories. They don't call to me even though I do enjoy a good adolescent sci-fi or fantasy story. I guess the throw back to romance in those awkward days are just too much for my damaged teenage psyche. This story is different in that you can relate to difficulties of the young people in a way that reminds you it wasn't just you that had troubles in your teens.Vander Ark is a talented writer with a wonderful gift for crafting with the written word. I am excited that he has chosen to write as a means for his passion. I look forward to reading his other books and finding more great gems from this young man. less
Reviews (see all)
blackberrycurve
Didn't think it was that great. A lot of people like it based on the reviews it just wasn't for me.
loven
Good story, fast paced & entertaining. I didn't feel connected to any of the characters though.
dani
This book is amazing and the description is great I loved reading it!
val
This book is worth every single minute/penny you spend on.
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