Review: Smash & Grab by Amy Christine Parker

Release date: July 19th 2016
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
Purchase: Amazon | B&N

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Ocean’s Eleven meets the star-crossed lovers of West Side Story.Grab some popcorn and get ready for an adrenaline-filled heist!

LEXI is a rich girl who loves a good rush. Whether it’s motorcycle racing or BASE jumping off a building in downtown Los Angeles, the only times she feels alive are when she and her friends are executing one of their dares. After her father’s arrest, Lexi doesn’t think twice about going undercover at his bank to steal the evidence that might clear his name. She enlists her hacker brother and her daredevil friends to plan a clever heist.

CHRISTIAN is a boy from the wrong side of the tracks. The local gang has blackmailed him and his friends into robbing banks, and he is desperate for a way out. When the boss promises that one really big job will be the last he ever has to do, Christian jumps at the chance for freedom. In fact, he’s just met a girl at the bank who might even prove useful. . . .

Two heists. One score. The only thing standing in their way is each other.

Told in alternating points of view, this caper is full of romance and fast-paced fun. Hand to fans of Perfect Chemistry, The Conspiracy of Us, and Heist Society.

*Publisher provided physical copy in exchange for an honest review.

I fell in love with Amy's writing in the Gated series. I really enjoyed those two books and was utterly lost in the world of cults and how tough it was for members to move on from that life. Smash & Grab is a stretch from Gated, and I do like that the author doesn't restrict herself and is writing in other genres. But even though it's lighter in a sense and has an interesting premise, I just wasn't in love with Smash & Grab as I would have liked to be.

In regards to the characters, I did like the fact that it alternated between Christian's and Lexi's POV, but I didn't really connect with them as much, especially with Lexi. There was just something about her character that prevented me from really warming up to her. And I did sympathize with the fact that her father got in serious trouble and her family was in disarray because of it, but when it came to Christian's situation, I was more empathetic for him.

The blurb gave me the impression that there would be lots of exciting scenes, but there wasn't much, in my opinion, and I felt like some parts could have moved along while others, in particularly the ending, could have slowed down a tad. Still, it's an interesting story. There were funny moments and scenes where Christian and Lexi experienced a romantic connection, but when it was serious it was serious. Like with Christian's situation; the way gangs impact communities and how desperation from wanting to help your family can lead to terrible decisions and land you into bigger trouble. I thought the author did a good job in touching on that issue and the depiction of how the gang operated came off realistic. 

Overall, Smash & Grab is a good story but with some issues that held me back from fully enjoying it. I did like how things worked out for the characters and that their lives started to change for the better. Again, I'm happy that Amy isn't limiting herself to one genre and is branching out, and I look forward to reading her next release. 

About the Author

AMY CHRISTINE PARKER earned her degree in elementary education at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, and then proceeded to try out many different jobs, including collectible doll maker, fondue waitress, and inner-city schoolteacher. It wasn’t until she became a mom and began making up bedtime stories for her children that she finally realized what she was meant to do. Now Amy writes full-time from her home near Tampa, Florida, where she lives with her husband, their two daughters, and one ridiculously fat cat.

www.amychristineparker.com | @amychristinepar

Review: Astray by Amy Christine Parker

Series: Gated #2
Release date: August 26th 2014
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
Purchase: Amazon

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Lyla is caught between two worlds. The isolated Community that she grew up in and the outside world that she’s navigating for the very first time. The outsiders call the Community a cult, but Pioneer miraculously survived a shooting that should have killed him. Are the faithful members right to stay true to his message? Is this just a test of faith? One thing is for sure: the Community will do anything to bring Lyla back to the fold. Trapped in a spider’s web of deception, will Lyla detect the sticky threads tightening around her before it’s too late? She’ll have to unravel the mystery of what Pioneer and the Community are truly up to if she wants to survive.

Suspenseful and chilling, Astray is Amy Christine Parker’s nerve-fraying sequel to Gated. This fast-paced psychological thriller is masterfully plotted and sure to leave goose bumps. Perfect for fans of creepy YA thrillers and contemporary fiction alike.

*Received finished copy from the publisher in exchange of an honest review.

When I saw that Ms. Parker was releasing a continuation to Lyla's story, I just had to read it. Gated was my first experience with such a plot about a closed off, cult-like community basically led by a lunatic, and I was very intrigued as to what would happen to the members once their lives had been interrupted and their leader taken away. I wanted to know if they would have a change of heart and come to the realization that Pioneer was only brainwashing them. 

Astray gave me an eye-opening. It's certainly not easy to leave all you've believed in for so many years behind. The community members were as devoted as ever, and they kept trying to lure Lyla back to them. Throughout the book, it was a struggle for Lyla to try and figure out her place; where she belonged, were her beliefs wrong, and if she made a mistake. There were times I grew frustrated with her for doubting all that she'd done in the first book and for thinking that maybe things should have stayed the way they were. Then I had to remind myself that Lyla needs time to sort out her life. It takes years for people like her and the other members of the community to really let go of all that they were fed by Pioneer.

I must point out that the majority of the book dealt with Lyla fitting in, as well as how the Outsiders react to the community. So it was a little slow building to what would happen in this continuation. Pioneer is in jail for his crimes and is awaiting trial, but not without getting members of the community to torment Lyla. Interesting, how he still had so much power over them to even convince them to prove their faith to him.

I wanted to cry when Lyla took the risk and ended up going back and they made her prove herself as well. But she was so drained after their recentering process that she didn't even care anymore. I got nervous. I thought for a second there we'd lost her again, but then when she found Cody's note and her senses snapped back, I knew she was starting to see again that their way was wrong and she had to leave.

Oh, for those looking for the spooky, there was a bit of that. Like how one of them would show up at the Sheriff's house and move things around, as well as the photos she found at her parents' trailer. Indeed, there was a bit of creepy thrown in the mist. It wasn't a lot though. Aside from the empty stares and spine-chilling chants, it wasn't as frightening as one might want it to be, but the story definitely aroused my curiosity because I wanted to see how everything would work out.

The ending was great. I knew Mr. Brown, Brian, and Jonathan were up to something extreme, but I had no idea what. So that was just crazy. In the end, Lyla did another brave thing and saved the "Outsiders". In spite of their treatment, she risked her life for theirs. I was very satisfied with how things wrapped up, just a little sad that Lyla's mom is in such a hopeless state. I guess it's harder for some to give up their beliefs.

Overall, it was great experience. Wonderful writing as usual. A slow pace, but an intriguing story. I actually smiled when Lyla finally found the peace that she was looking for, and I'm happy that she's developed into a fearless young lady. Good job, Ms. Parker. I look forward to your next book.

About the Author

AMY CHRISTINE PARKER earned her degree in elementary education at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, and then proceeded to try out many different jobs, including collectible doll maker, fondue waitress, and inner-city schoolteacher. It wasn't until she became a mom and began making up bedtime stories for her children that she finally realized what she was meant to do. Now Amy writes full-time from her home near Tampa, Florida, where she lives with her husband, their two daughters, and one ridiculously fat cat. 

www.amychristineparker.com | TWITTER | FACEBOOK

Waiting on Wednesday #98 + Giveaway

 

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill @ Breaking the Spines. This is a cool way to spotlight a upcoming release that you're anxious about, as well as checking out what other book lovers are anticipating as well. Here's what I'm waiting for:

Astray (Gated #2)
by Amy Christine Parker
Release date: August 26th 2014

Publisher: Random House

Synopsis via Goodreads: 

Lyla is caught between two worlds. The isolated Community that she grew up in and the outside world that she’s navigating for the very first time. The outsiders call the Community a cult, but Pioneer miraculously survived a shooting that should have killed him. Are the faithful members right to stay true to his message? Is this just a test of faith? One thing is for sure: the Community will do anything to bring Lyla back to the fold. 

Trapped in a spider’s web of deception, will Lyla detect the sticky threads tightening around her before it’s too late? She’ll have to unravel the mystery of what Pioneer and the Community are truly up to if she wants to survive.

Suspenseful and chilling, Astray is Amy Christine Parker’s nerve-fraying sequel to Gated. This fast-paced psychological thriller is masterfully plotted and sure to leave goose bumps. Perfect for fans of creepy YA thrillers and contemporary fiction alike.

Why I'm Waiting

I liked Gated. I had no idea Amy was going to continue the story so you can imagine my surprise when I came across the sequel on Goodreads. I like the synopsis and am very intrigued. Now I want to know how Lyla is adjusting to the outside world and what the community is going to do to try to retrieve her. Will they be able to escape Pioneer's control once and for all? I'm so curious now.

What are you waiting for?

Stacking the Shelves #50

This is a weekly meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews, where you showcase all the books you've received in the past week. 

I received two books for review. Gated paperback ARC, and a finished hardcover of Fire With Fire.

Fire With Fire (Burn for Burn #2) by Jenny Han & Siobhan Vivian

Gated by Amy Christine Parker

See my review for Gated

That's all I got, which is good cause I've been trying to get to my packed TBR pile. 

What's in your mailbox?

Review: Gated by Amy Christine Parker

Welcome to my stop on the Amy Christine Parker Gated Blog Tour. See my review below:

Release date: August 6th 2013
Publisher: Random House
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Do the gates keep the unchosen out or the chosen in?

In Mandrodage Meadows, life seems perfect. The members of this isolated suburban community have thrived under Pioneer, the charismatic leader who saved them from their sad, damaged lives. Lyla Hamilton and her parents are original members of the flock. They moved here following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, looking to escape the evil in the world. Now seventeen, Lyla knows certain facts are not to be questioned:

Pioneer is her leader.

Will is her Intended.

The end of the world is near.

Like Noah before him, Pioneer has been told of the imminent destruction of humanity. He says his chosen must arm themselves to fight off the unchosen people, who will surely seek refuge in the compound's underground fortress--the Silo.

Lyla loves her family and friends, but given the choice, she prefers painting to target practice. And lately she'd rather think about a certain boy outside the compound than plan for married life in the Silo with Will. But with the end of days drawing near, she will have to pick up a gun, take a side, and let everyone know where she stands.

*I was given a copy of this book to review for the tour. That had not influenced my opinion in any way.

An interesting story analyzing the atmosphere of a closed community from one girl's innocent eyes. 

Gated takes us on a journey of how an individual can easily convince a group of people with promises of a beautiful life while it appears he is oppressing them in ways they don't even realize, but Lyla is pretty much wide awake. She has a mindset of her own and I liked how throughout the pages she questions-internally-the beliefs of their so-called leader and all his teachings. 

I don't exactly enjoy reading books involving cults and people abusing religion, using it to brainwash others and having them partake in a belief that doesn't seem right. And this book had me all over the place with my emotions. I disliked Pioneer (seriously, you don't get more egotistic than that) from the get-go. It unnerved me as I continued reading how manipulated these people were and I wanted someone (ANYBODY) to snap out of it. There was one scene in particularly that had me heated and wanting to shove my hand in the story and bitch slap this Pioneer. 

He talks about how the outside world is full of violence and evil people who hurt each other, but how is what he does in the name of 'punishment' loving or kind, or different from what he despises outsiders for. Throughout the entire story I kept thinking of him as a hypocrite and towards the end my impression becomes even more justified. Basically, I always knew Pioneer was bat shit crazy.

Let's talk main character. Lyla, wow. She was great. I saw things perfectly clear through her eyes and felt her emotions deeply within the words. From the opening chapter I developed a sense of the kind of person she was, and I understood where she was coming from. Lyla was severely protected and sheltered by her parents (mother, more particularly since losing a child). It is understandable why she'd give up a normal life in exchange for their beliefs, to make them happy. Lyla, like most of us seek comfort and security, and she believed this community, isolated or not, would provide such things. 

Lyla, among everyone else, questioned everything but never spoke out. In fact, it seemed her bravery blossomed further upon meeting Cody. And boy did I like Cody's character and how he shook up Lyla's world with the TRUTH. I think him coming into her life made her see things differently and experience a new kind of emotion that she's never felt before. My favorite lines from this jovial character Cody is:

"I see what you're saying...but those things don't happen all the time to everybody. And I don't see how being somewhere smaller and more controlled keeps you from trouble. If anything, it gives you less room to run. Eventually everybody has to deal with something unpleasant. I don't think hiding away from those things means that they won't find you."

And he couldn't have said it better. Because as much as Lyla had a point with what she said before that, Cody responded the way I would've. Let's be realistic, trouble finds us EVERYWHERE, even in isolated groups like what Lyla and her family and friends are a part of. Towards the end, she realized that more than ever-sometimes what you're hiding from is right there with you all along where you least expected it to be.

Overall, it was a great story. Though, I found it wasn't fast paced no matter if the pages were under 300. However, I truly had to take my time to dissect every chapter in order to fully understand the main character and what was happening around her. It was a bit detailed, but understandable and thought-provoking, as the author explained what brought the main character and her family in that situation, and how deeply affected Lyla was by everything. Besides, the dramatic ending and those enervating head notes made up for the wait. 

I went into Gated without reading the synopsis and I'm glad I did. Because it made me even more open-minded towards the theme embedded. And once more I have to say it turned out to be a very interesting story with wonderful writing, intriguing characters and fantastic twists. If you like reading about cults with the aspect of faith, psychotic and power hunger maniacs, then do give this one a try.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Amy was born in Pennsylvania and spent most of her early years there. Many of her best memories are of hiding out in her room where she made up elaborate pretend play scenarios most often involving orphaned baby dolls and Barbies dressed in fashions made out of Kleenex. 
 
Amy was always attracted to writing, but she tried a lot of other jobs on for size first before settling into writing full time. At some point or another, she has been a collectible doll-maker, a fondue waitress, an inner city school teacher, and a stay at home mom. Currently she is writing full time and lives in a suburb of Tampa, Florida with her very supportive husband, their two creative and energetic daughters, one absurdly fat orange cat, and two escape artist mice.

Follow her on Twitter | Read her blog | Visit her site

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