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Hearts of Faeylon #1
Dark & Twisted Games
Nothing ever happens in the small town of Copake Falls, and no one knows that better than sixteen-year-old Eden Day. Her life is a mundane carousal, rotating between caring for her alien obsessed aunt and dealing with her freak status at school. Until two brothers move into town and turn her life completely upside down.
Golden boy, Cardelian Foster is the talk of the town, and it seems his sights set on Eden. However, she finds herself drawn to the dark and elusive Jaxson instead. Caught between her fear of what he might be and her attraction to him, Eden makes it her mission to find out exactly who or what Jaxson Foster is.
Eden begins to dig for the truth, but the deeper she looks, the more her life seems to be in danger. Everyone around her thinks she’s going crazy, and Eden begins to agree until she finds herself pulled into Faeylon—a world that nightmares are made of. Caught in the center of a dark game, Eden realizes there can only be one winner, and she is the prize.
Golden boy, Cardelian Foster is the talk of the town, and it seems his sights set on Eden. However, she finds herself drawn to the dark and elusive Jaxson instead. Caught between her fear of what he might be and her attraction to him, Eden makes it her mission to find out exactly who or what Jaxson Foster is.
Eden begins to dig for the truth, but the deeper she looks, the more her life seems to be in danger. Everyone around her thinks she’s going crazy, and Eden begins to agree until she finds herself pulled into Faeylon—a world that nightmares are made of. Caught in the center of a dark game, Eden realizes there can only be one winner, and she is the prize.
330 pages, ebook
Published April 1, 2016
About the author
Heidi Acosta
6 books237 followersI was born on Long Island, New York. I moved around a lot when I was younger, I lived in New York, Arizona, New York (again), Washington, Georgia, and Florida, and now I’m back in New York. Each place has offered me something special.
I started writing as soon as I could spell. When I was three, yes three, my mother gave me a copy of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House in the Big Woods; this became my most prized possession.
Writing was a form of therapy for me when I realized that no matter what was happening in my life, I could find an escape in my writing.
I have a degree in Humanities and English literature. I now reside in New York with my husband, and daughter, one hyper Chihuahua, two sweet cats, and one very fat moody cat.
My novels include the Baby Doll Series: Barbie Girl, Barbie World, and Doll Face. The Heart of Feaylon Series published by CHBB Publishing: Dark and Twisted Games.
I started writing as soon as I could spell. When I was three, yes three, my mother gave me a copy of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House in the Big Woods; this became my most prized possession.
Writing was a form of therapy for me when I realized that no matter what was happening in my life, I could find an escape in my writing.
I have a degree in Humanities and English literature. I now reside in New York with my husband, and daughter, one hyper Chihuahua, two sweet cats, and one very fat moody cat.
My novels include the Baby Doll Series: Barbie Girl, Barbie World, and Doll Face. The Heart of Feaylon Series published by CHBB Publishing: Dark and Twisted Games.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 4, 2015
Thank you Xpresso Book Tours for sending me this book in exchange of an honest review
Warning: Minor Spoilers Ahead
hmm... this book is every typical thing I ever read in my entire life.
SUMMARY:
1. The girl is freakin stubborn
2. She has a best friend who's really popular, pretty and has a boyfriend (YOU GET ME THE TYPICAL CONTRAST)
3. The romance overweighted the plot
4. The typical love triangle
5. The girl prefers the dark and mysterious one, duh DUH.
6. The typical scenario where the dark and mysterious one is a stalker and his hands are cold and his eyes glows you hear me?
SO NOW YOU GET ME? WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO READ SOMETHING THAT IS A COMBINATION OF EVERY CLICHÉ THING YOU EVER READ
hmmm...... I rather keep this review short.
But here's my last present for you:
Warning: Minor Spoilers Ahead
hmm... this book is every typical thing I ever read in my entire life.
SUMMARY:
1. The girl is freakin stubborn
2. She has a best friend who's really popular, pretty and has a boyfriend (YOU GET ME THE TYPICAL CONTRAST)
3. The romance overweighted the plot
4. The typical love triangle
5. The girl prefers the dark and mysterious one, duh DUH.
6. The typical scenario where the dark and mysterious one is a stalker and his hands are cold and his eyes glows you hear me?
SO NOW YOU GET ME? WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO READ SOMETHING THAT IS A COMBINATION OF EVERY CLICHÉ THING YOU EVER READ
hmmm...... I rather keep this review short.
But here's my last present for you:
“He gently holds my chin in his hand, and with the other runs a finger across my cheekbone, catching a stray eyelash. He holds the tip of his finger to my lips with a single lash on the tip. “Make a wish.” My heart drops out from under me as I blow the lash off his finger. He rubs his thumb across my jaw one last time before turning to the front of the room. I glance at Buck, who is staring at me with his mouth agape; he looks as dumbfounded as I feel.
March 11, 2015
Check out more of my reviews on my blog http://gemmareadstoomuch.co.uk
4.5 Stars
Dark & Twisted Games is book #1 in the Hearts of Faeylon Series and the first book I have read by this author. I was lucky enough to be gifted an ARC to read for Gemma Reads Too Much.
I love fantasy and supernatural books but it’s rare that I find a blurb that tickles my fancy, but this blurb spoke to me (read me, read me lol)
I’ve just finished and my initial reaction is…..
Oh My F’ing God!!!!!!
This book grabbed me and pulled me along for the ride, I always forget how much I get into fantasy books until I read one again. I really don’t want to give away any spoilers so bear with me if I’m a bit vague…
This story centres around Eden, Jaxson and Cardelain, I think right from the first page we know that there’s something different about these three but at the start you can’t quite put your finger on what it is that’s odd.
Eden is too nice to be a freak; her aunt Essie is too lucid to be crazy. Jaxson is too dark and brooding to be the bad guy and Cardelain is far too perfect to actually be perfect!!!
From the first word this book had me on the edge of my seat waiting for something to happen. I was tense and anxious, I knew something was going to happen but I honestly had no idea how this was going to play out.
Most the time we know what supernatural creature is going to appear, but honestly I had no idea what they were right up till the moment it was revealed.
I LOVE Eden she’s tenacious and just cute enough to not be a complete cliché, in my opinion Liv was an unnecessary accomplice she wants to be a good friend but just doesn’t have any real faith in her friend.
Jaxson and Cardelain are your stereotypical light vs. dark but everyone knows that you can’t beat a good anti hero!!!!
I got completely absorbed in this story, it was brilliant my heart raced I was on the edge of my seat desperate to know what was going to happen next!!!
Roll on book #2 I can’t wait for another instalment of this brilliant fantasy story.
Dark & Twisted Games gets 4.5 Stars from me.
4.5 Stars
Dark & Twisted Games is book #1 in the Hearts of Faeylon Series and the first book I have read by this author. I was lucky enough to be gifted an ARC to read for Gemma Reads Too Much.
I love fantasy and supernatural books but it’s rare that I find a blurb that tickles my fancy, but this blurb spoke to me (read me, read me lol)
I’ve just finished and my initial reaction is…..
Oh My F’ing God!!!!!!
This book grabbed me and pulled me along for the ride, I always forget how much I get into fantasy books until I read one again. I really don’t want to give away any spoilers so bear with me if I’m a bit vague…
This story centres around Eden, Jaxson and Cardelain, I think right from the first page we know that there’s something different about these three but at the start you can’t quite put your finger on what it is that’s odd.
Eden is too nice to be a freak; her aunt Essie is too lucid to be crazy. Jaxson is too dark and brooding to be the bad guy and Cardelain is far too perfect to actually be perfect!!!
From the first word this book had me on the edge of my seat waiting for something to happen. I was tense and anxious, I knew something was going to happen but I honestly had no idea how this was going to play out.
Most the time we know what supernatural creature is going to appear, but honestly I had no idea what they were right up till the moment it was revealed.
I LOVE Eden she’s tenacious and just cute enough to not be a complete cliché, in my opinion Liv was an unnecessary accomplice she wants to be a good friend but just doesn’t have any real faith in her friend.
Jaxson and Cardelain are your stereotypical light vs. dark but everyone knows that you can’t beat a good anti hero!!!!
I got completely absorbed in this story, it was brilliant my heart raced I was on the edge of my seat desperate to know what was going to happen next!!!
Roll on book #2 I can’t wait for another instalment of this brilliant fantasy story.
Dark & Twisted Games gets 4.5 Stars from me.
May 31, 2016
Eden just does not belong. She goes through the motions of high school, but she could care less about her grades (which are all almost failing), has one friend, lives with her Schizophrenic aunt who is the town joke, and is nicknamed "Freak". Eden brushes everything off and tries to stay positive while counting down the days until she graduates high school and moves away. But one night while walking through the woods to her friend's house, she is attacked by a stranger with glowing eyes. Nobody believes her but she refuses to stop her own investigation, because that might mean that she could might be crazy.
I was first lured into reading this story because of the pretty cover. Sure, you are not suppose to judge a book by it's cover, but I do. I have been known to pick a book to read because it appealed to me aesthetically. So yes, I picked up this book to read without knowing what it was about but because I am in love with the cover. Can I just say how much I enjoyed this book? I was caught off guard by how much I loved what I was reading and the pages just flew by. I seriously sat down to read for just a few minutes and next thing I knew an hour had passed and I was half way into the book. The plot was interesting and unique enough that it kept me on my toes because I honestly had no idea what would happen next. The idea behind the story was creative and engaging with nothing as it seems. But, hands down, my favorite part of the book was Eden.
Eden was the most strange and entertaining character that I have read in a long time. She was a total quirky odd ball who cared almost not at all about what people thought and was fairly happy in her own skin. She called it like she saw it, was honest but not meanly so and marched to her own beat even when it made people not like her. Hands down, I absolutely loved her. I would be friends with her if I could. I was also intrigued by her her concern for her sanity, doubting what she saw as real or related to her "family history" and how she struggled over how best to treat her aunt and her quirks. She tried to see the best in those around her (like her inappropriate crush) and spent most of her time lost in her fantasy worlds she created.
The story was also full of adventure, danger and mystery. This is the first in a series and with the way this book ended, I am going to need the second book right away to rectify the terrible cliff hanger I had to experience. This story was not what I was expecting and I was incredibly happy with what I received.
I received this title from the author in return for my honest review.
I was first lured into reading this story because of the pretty cover. Sure, you are not suppose to judge a book by it's cover, but I do. I have been known to pick a book to read because it appealed to me aesthetically. So yes, I picked up this book to read without knowing what it was about but because I am in love with the cover. Can I just say how much I enjoyed this book? I was caught off guard by how much I loved what I was reading and the pages just flew by. I seriously sat down to read for just a few minutes and next thing I knew an hour had passed and I was half way into the book. The plot was interesting and unique enough that it kept me on my toes because I honestly had no idea what would happen next. The idea behind the story was creative and engaging with nothing as it seems. But, hands down, my favorite part of the book was Eden.
Eden was the most strange and entertaining character that I have read in a long time. She was a total quirky odd ball who cared almost not at all about what people thought and was fairly happy in her own skin. She called it like she saw it, was honest but not meanly so and marched to her own beat even when it made people not like her. Hands down, I absolutely loved her. I would be friends with her if I could. I was also intrigued by her her concern for her sanity, doubting what she saw as real or related to her "family history" and how she struggled over how best to treat her aunt and her quirks. She tried to see the best in those around her (like her inappropriate crush) and spent most of her time lost in her fantasy worlds she created.
The story was also full of adventure, danger and mystery. This is the first in a series and with the way this book ended, I am going to need the second book right away to rectify the terrible cliff hanger I had to experience. This story was not what I was expecting and I was incredibly happy with what I received.
I received this title from the author in return for my honest review.
June 30, 2016
3.5 out of 5 stars
This book fits the title so perfectly it's kind of scary. I have absolutely no idea how I'm supposed to put my emotions into words after reading this book because I'm literally just in a state of shock. Dark and Twisted Games follows Eden Day who is an outcast at Copake Falls. She spends her days dodging insults and hateful stares and loses herself to the stories she create. Her life gets turned upside down when two brothers move into town with the foster parents. Cardelian is the golden boy and brings the dying football team to unexpected victories while Jaxson is the dark bad boy who slips under the radar. Eden finds herself drawn to Jaxson while Cardelian starts to show interest in her. The more she learns about the brothers draws her deeper into a world she didn't quite bargain for.
There are so many things I need to say about this story so let's start off with tropes. This has the typical outcast girl caught between two polar opposite brothers who seem to be harboring a secret. What I didn't expect what how Heidi Acosta would set these tropes into motion throughout the story. There were moments where I thought I knew what was going to happen and then my theory gets blown up in my face (literally). The story telling is really well done and has this gripping pull to it that makes you want to keep reading.
I'll admit that I didn't exactly like Eden because it seemed like half the time, she didn't know what she was doing and what was going on. I won't fault her because honestly, her life gets pretty messed up throughout this book, but sometimes I wished she could have handled things a bit more calm. As for the brothers, I don't want to say much without giving things away but let's just say what happened was like a punch through the stomach.
This story has so many unexpected things happening that I almost wished we could have gotten more. I wanted to know more of Faeylon even though it seems like a terrible place to be. I want to know more about Eden's writing because frankly, that's the only part of her that interests me. There are just so many things that I wanted more explanations of because this book left a ton of questions. I guess I'll just have to wait for the next book to see if I get some answers.
Originally Posted on Forever Obsession
This book fits the title so perfectly it's kind of scary. I have absolutely no idea how I'm supposed to put my emotions into words after reading this book because I'm literally just in a state of shock. Dark and Twisted Games follows Eden Day who is an outcast at Copake Falls. She spends her days dodging insults and hateful stares and loses herself to the stories she create. Her life gets turned upside down when two brothers move into town with the foster parents. Cardelian is the golden boy and brings the dying football team to unexpected victories while Jaxson is the dark bad boy who slips under the radar. Eden finds herself drawn to Jaxson while Cardelian starts to show interest in her. The more she learns about the brothers draws her deeper into a world she didn't quite bargain for.
There are so many things I need to say about this story so let's start off with tropes. This has the typical outcast girl caught between two polar opposite brothers who seem to be harboring a secret. What I didn't expect what how Heidi Acosta would set these tropes into motion throughout the story. There were moments where I thought I knew what was going to happen and then my theory gets blown up in my face (literally). The story telling is really well done and has this gripping pull to it that makes you want to keep reading.
I'll admit that I didn't exactly like Eden because it seemed like half the time, she didn't know what she was doing and what was going on. I won't fault her because honestly, her life gets pretty messed up throughout this book, but sometimes I wished she could have handled things a bit more calm. As for the brothers, I don't want to say much without giving things away but let's just say what happened was like a punch through the stomach.
This story has so many unexpected things happening that I almost wished we could have gotten more. I wanted to know more of Faeylon even though it seems like a terrible place to be. I want to know more about Eden's writing because frankly, that's the only part of her that interests me. There are just so many things that I wanted more explanations of because this book left a ton of questions. I guess I'll just have to wait for the next book to see if I get some answers.
Originally Posted on Forever Obsession
March 31, 2016
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Dark and Twisted Games is Book One in the Hearts of Faeylon series, a young adult paranormal series. It is a series that has different paranormal creatures and it will appeal to fans of Melissa Marr's Wicked Lovely series. I really enjoyed Dark and Twisted Games. It reminded me how much I love this sub genre of paranormal's. I want to read more! And the cliffhanger at the end is a humdinger! It even said "the end" and I about screamed until I looked on goodreads and saw that this was only the first book in the series. So don't worry- there will be more!
The main character Eden is a like a breath of fresh air. She is nothing like the popular girl or any kind of "typical" ya heroine. She is stubborn, doesn't take crap from anyone, but is one of the most genuinely nice girls I have seen in a while. I loved the scene with her and her classmate in gym class. You just don't see unselfish acts of kindness like that enough.
Eden knows something is up with the two new foster guys, Cardalian and Jaxson, but it was kind of comical how far off she was. I don't blame her, in the same circumstances I would have drawn a similar conclusion. Heidi Acosta does a great job with all of the characters. I do wish we got a little more of a glimpse inside Jaxson's head, but I have a feeling that will be coming in the next book. Heidi throws twist after turn after blindside at the readers and I could hardly catch my breath. I couldn't put Dark and Twisted Games down. The book ended far to quickly for my liking. I want more right now!
Bottom Line: if you like YA paranormal romance, Dark and Twisted games should be on your to-read list. I think it is great!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Dark and Twisted Games is Book One in the Hearts of Faeylon series, a young adult paranormal series. It is a series that has different paranormal creatures and it will appeal to fans of Melissa Marr's Wicked Lovely series. I really enjoyed Dark and Twisted Games. It reminded me how much I love this sub genre of paranormal's. I want to read more! And the cliffhanger at the end is a humdinger! It even said "the end" and I about screamed until I looked on goodreads and saw that this was only the first book in the series. So don't worry- there will be more!The main character Eden is a like a breath of fresh air. She is nothing like the popular girl or any kind of "typical" ya heroine. She is stubborn, doesn't take crap from anyone, but is one of the most genuinely nice girls I have seen in a while. I loved the scene with her and her classmate in gym class. You just don't see unselfish acts of kindness like that enough.
Eden knows something is up with the two new foster guys, Cardalian and Jaxson, but it was kind of comical how far off she was. I don't blame her, in the same circumstances I would have drawn a similar conclusion. Heidi Acosta does a great job with all of the characters. I do wish we got a little more of a glimpse inside Jaxson's head, but I have a feeling that will be coming in the next book. Heidi throws twist after turn after blindside at the readers and I could hardly catch my breath. I couldn't put Dark and Twisted Games down. The book ended far to quickly for my liking. I want more right now!
Bottom Line: if you like YA paranormal romance, Dark and Twisted games should be on your to-read list. I think it is great!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
March 6, 2015
FREE copy from author in exchange for HONEST review
MY REVIEW
I'm not going to explain the plot because the synopsis pretty much says it all!
Let's talk about Eden first. She has got to be one of my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE protagonists of all time!! Hve you ever felt that you're exactly like a main character in the book!? Well Eden is exactly like me-not physically but character wise. She has a burning passion for writing and carries a notebook everywhere and instead of solving a math equation she's thinking of a new story plot (ME!!!!) She's bullied but she doesn't give a shit what anyone says about her. You'll never see her cower in a corner, she'll stand up for herself. She's kind of a smart mouth to teachers and everything she says is the kind of stuff i say when i'm with my friends! You know the awkward, babbling type that makes everyone laugh? Well that's us!!! I just absolutely ADORE her.
Plot wise this book had me on a rollercoaster. Jaxson was so mysterious and he had some many different personalities, i didn't know which one was the real Jaxson. I'm not gonna reveal the plot because if i do i won't stop raving about how AMAZING it is and ruin for all of you! Just know that it is EPICALLY AMAZING. I know, epically isn't a word but for such an other worldly book, and other worldly word is needed!
I honestly was not expecting this book to be this awesome but it really gripped me! I've been reading for a whole day-except to do my math h/w (YAWN!)-just could not put it down! Everything had just the right amount of everything! You never pitied Eden because she's such a strong character, you find yourself cheering her on and i just found her compassion for aunt so sweet! She had an amazing friend to help and this book was mainly focused on her drive to prove herself not crazy.
I definitely did not foresee any of the turn of events. You definitely won't either because the intrigue keeps you questioning everything until way after a glimmer of something is revealed but it's not something you expect! Loved the romance!!!Jaxson=drool+swoon for me! Cliffhanger is killing me, still can't get over it!!! Cannot WAIT TILL THIS SEQUEL!!!
MY REVIEW
I'm not going to explain the plot because the synopsis pretty much says it all!
Let's talk about Eden first. She has got to be one of my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE protagonists of all time!! Hve you ever felt that you're exactly like a main character in the book!? Well Eden is exactly like me-not physically but character wise. She has a burning passion for writing and carries a notebook everywhere and instead of solving a math equation she's thinking of a new story plot (ME!!!!) She's bullied but she doesn't give a shit what anyone says about her. You'll never see her cower in a corner, she'll stand up for herself. She's kind of a smart mouth to teachers and everything she says is the kind of stuff i say when i'm with my friends! You know the awkward, babbling type that makes everyone laugh? Well that's us!!! I just absolutely ADORE her.
Plot wise this book had me on a rollercoaster. Jaxson was so mysterious and he had some many different personalities, i didn't know which one was the real Jaxson. I'm not gonna reveal the plot because if i do i won't stop raving about how AMAZING it is and ruin for all of you! Just know that it is EPICALLY AMAZING. I know, epically isn't a word but for such an other worldly book, and other worldly word is needed!
I honestly was not expecting this book to be this awesome but it really gripped me! I've been reading for a whole day-except to do my math h/w (YAWN!)-just could not put it down! Everything had just the right amount of everything! You never pitied Eden because she's such a strong character, you find yourself cheering her on and i just found her compassion for aunt so sweet! She had an amazing friend to help and this book was mainly focused on her drive to prove herself not crazy.
I definitely did not foresee any of the turn of events. You definitely won't either because the intrigue keeps you questioning everything until way after a glimmer of something is revealed but it's not something you expect! Loved the romance!!!Jaxson=drool+swoon for me! Cliffhanger is killing me, still can't get over it!!! Cannot WAIT TILL THIS SEQUEL!!!
![Profile Image for Caro [The Book Rogue].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1348323821i/7330476._UX200_CR0,4,200,200_.jpg)
August 24, 2017
Note: un-published version 1. I hope this gets revised big time and I can come back to it once it really gets published to review again.
I liked the idea of this dark and twisted game between two fae, that kind of thing is always a good idea, and I think Heidi Acosta could reach the right level of madness and cruelty, the dreams and Cardelain hinted at it. I also liked what I got to see of Faeylon so far, and the lore and abilities.
However, the way this is now, I can’t give it a good rating. There is a lot of work to be done, starting from some serious proffreading and editing in the first and last 30% to cut some repetative crap with lots of mistakes in it too that’s overstuffing and totally jumbling the reading flow, and moving on to plot and characters.
I understand you need a bit of to and fro to make the characters feel conflicted, but this was too much and only led to me thinking that the characters simply weren’t well developed at all, and to disliking Eden. She’s curious, like she should be, but then one minute she’s scared shitless, and the next she’s all survivor mode, but not like her fear actually inspired that bravery, no. And let’s not forget that she acts like a spoiled bitchy brat throwing a tantrum when left alone long enough in her head. Not cool at all.
Plotwise it was good until Eden got dumped in Faeylon and Cardelain suddenly seems to have forgotten all about her. Errr, main plot, where are you? But this read has the potential to be epic, especially with that ending, I already have a good idea what is to come in book two and like the prospect.
Overall, I advise to less words, thus more structure and less contradictions. There were some parts in between where I really liked the style, but there are still skills to be learned for you. Keep working on it!
I liked the idea of this dark and twisted game between two fae, that kind of thing is always a good idea, and I think Heidi Acosta could reach the right level of madness and cruelty, the dreams and Cardelain hinted at it. I also liked what I got to see of Faeylon so far, and the lore and abilities.
However, the way this is now, I can’t give it a good rating. There is a lot of work to be done, starting from some serious proffreading and editing in the first and last 30% to cut some repetative crap with lots of mistakes in it too that’s overstuffing and totally jumbling the reading flow, and moving on to plot and characters.
I understand you need a bit of to and fro to make the characters feel conflicted, but this was too much and only led to me thinking that the characters simply weren’t well developed at all, and to disliking Eden. She’s curious, like she should be, but then one minute she’s scared shitless, and the next she’s all survivor mode, but not like her fear actually inspired that bravery, no. And let’s not forget that she acts like a spoiled bitchy brat throwing a tantrum when left alone long enough in her head. Not cool at all.
Plotwise it was good until Eden got dumped in Faeylon and Cardelain suddenly seems to have forgotten all about her. Errr, main plot, where are you? But this read has the potential to be epic, especially with that ending, I already have a good idea what is to come in book two and like the prospect.
Overall, I advise to less words, thus more structure and less contradictions. There were some parts in between where I really liked the style, but there are still skills to be learned for you. Keep working on it!
March 21, 2015
Read for review for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.
I have to say I was intrigued by the synopsis and jumped at the chance to read this book. Heidi Acosta has an incredible imagination and I'm so glad that she shared it with us.
Eden Day is a socially awkward 16 year old who lives with her aunt. While preparing for the next alien invasion, helping her bestie get ready for homecoming and avoiding Buck the school bully, she's also dealing with the new Foster's.
Jaxson is your typical dark and moody hotty bad boy and Cardelain is your typical all american football star hotty. She's torn because who she should want and does want may not be the right choice. Are they really typical at all?
This book is definitely full of adventure and has plenty of angst. It leaves you wanting to know what happens next. This was a hard review to write because I hate spoilers and anything I share outside of the synopsis will give the story away. It does, however, involve some pretty interesting characters and a fanasty world only found in nightmares. Add in a game playing lying creature from another world and you get one pretty interesting story.
I gave this book 3 1/2 stars and look forward to reading the next book.
I have to say I was intrigued by the synopsis and jumped at the chance to read this book. Heidi Acosta has an incredible imagination and I'm so glad that she shared it with us.
Eden Day is a socially awkward 16 year old who lives with her aunt. While preparing for the next alien invasion, helping her bestie get ready for homecoming and avoiding Buck the school bully, she's also dealing with the new Foster's.
Jaxson is your typical dark and moody hotty bad boy and Cardelain is your typical all american football star hotty. She's torn because who she should want and does want may not be the right choice. Are they really typical at all?
This book is definitely full of adventure and has plenty of angst. It leaves you wanting to know what happens next. This was a hard review to write because I hate spoilers and anything I share outside of the synopsis will give the story away. It does, however, involve some pretty interesting characters and a fanasty world only found in nightmares. Add in a game playing lying creature from another world and you get one pretty interesting story.
I gave this book 3 1/2 stars and look forward to reading the next book.
May 24, 2015
Hmmm, we should call this one a ya paranormal mystery because most of the book is spent trying to find out what the Foster brothers are. The other part is trying to figure out which brother Eden will chose. Lol it's a fun young adult book with a great mystery plot but I wished for a little more... Surprise. I know, it's just for once I want something nice to happen lol but the dark aspects are what make the book so awesome. It definitely kept my attention.
I really like Eden. I also really liked her BFF Liv and her aunt Essie. Eden isn't so typical with being the main character. Especially since everyone thinks her family is insane and she's one of them. It's horrible how they bully her. She's still caring and unselfish and kind to others who are bullied.
The we have Cardalian and Jaxson. They are new in school. Different. Brothers. They are the polar opposite of each other. I liked the extreme mysteries surrounding them. How Eden tried so hard to figure out the difference and how wrong she was. And of course I just like that they were HAWT!
I really liked the writing style. The flow is nice, it kept me reading non stop, and I liked all the twists. The ending is a whammy though. Heads up on that cliff hanger!! So while I wait for more from book 2, I say 4.5 PAWS!!
I really like Eden. I also really liked her BFF Liv and her aunt Essie. Eden isn't so typical with being the main character. Especially since everyone thinks her family is insane and she's one of them. It's horrible how they bully her. She's still caring and unselfish and kind to others who are bullied.
The we have Cardalian and Jaxson. They are new in school. Different. Brothers. They are the polar opposite of each other. I liked the extreme mysteries surrounding them. How Eden tried so hard to figure out the difference and how wrong she was. And of course I just like that they were HAWT!
I really liked the writing style. The flow is nice, it kept me reading non stop, and I liked all the twists. The ending is a whammy though. Heads up on that cliff hanger!! So while I wait for more from book 2, I say 4.5 PAWS!!
May 5, 2016
Man, not sure what to say about this one. Once in while I like to explore some fantasy romances. But this one was... how shall I say, WEIRD AS HELL!!!
I mean, all through the story you just want to know what this guy Jaxson is. He emits cold and has glowing eyes *smirk! But when the reveal comes, it's just so damn far fetched that I had to choke back laughter. It was just too too out there. Plus the ending was not what I call a cliffhanger. The ending was full of s***!!! I really pissed me off that it ended as it did. And this why I will not be looking into how this whole mess of a story comes together, or tries to make sense in the next book.
Many spelling and grammatical errors. And at times you just didn't know how people got from one place to another.
I admire the authors effort, but this book made no sense to me...
I mean, all through the story you just want to know what this guy Jaxson is. He emits cold and has glowing eyes *smirk! But when the reveal comes, it's just so damn far fetched that I had to choke back laughter. It was just too too out there. Plus the ending was not what I call a cliffhanger. The ending was full of s***!!! I really pissed me off that it ended as it did. And this why I will not be looking into how this whole mess of a story comes together, or tries to make sense in the next book.
Many spelling and grammatical errors. And at times you just didn't know how people got from one place to another.
I admire the authors effort, but this book made no sense to me...
Read
December 1, 2016Not really for me hence the no rating but I suspect quite a few of my friends will love it
August 27, 2017
I have mixed emotions about this book. I loved the story. The characters were well developed and the pacing to the book was just right. The last third was quite a surprise and very unpredictable, and I love not knowing what's going to happen. My only complaint is the editing. Maybe I have an early version of the book and a new one is out now, but the book I have contains multiple errors that a good round of editing could fix. However, I know how hard it is to write and publish. You never know what was going on that caused the author/publisher not to get another editing round done. I will add that normally, this would be a huge turn off for me and sometimes I just stop reading. But the story was strong enough and kept me guessing that the editing errors didn't bother me too much. The story still carried itself and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I recommend it if you want to read a fresh paranormal book that isn't predictable!
June 4, 2017
Interesting start. Will continue with book 2.
December 7, 2022
Where can I purchase this book? Thank you :)
April 14, 2016
Growing up life for Eden has been difficult as living in a small town, she has been called a freak due to her aunt's condition and the fact her parents are dead and then even her Grandmother has shunned her. The only person she can really count on and who makes her life bearable for the fact that she hangs around with Eden is Liv who is the complete opposite of her - Miss Popular, Cheerleader and Beautiful. Compared to Liv, Eden is your plain jane type of girl. That is until she catches the interest of not only one guy but two - the two new Foster kids Cardelian and Jaxon. Cardelian is Mr. Popular and Jaxon is the Social Outcast but it seems that Cardelian is making an effort to get to know Eden and he is the one all the girls are crushing after but it's Jaxon whom Eden wants to know and he is the one warning her to stay away but she can't. As the book goes on we learn more about Eden's Aunt Essie's past and her condition and what could have caused it to being opened to a dangerous new world and fingers crossed that Eden doesn't suffer the same fate as her Aunt or worse as it seems she has landed right in the middle of a Dark and Twisted Game and the only choices are to survive or be killed and Survival is the harder option of course. Can Eden survive the ordeal and come out unscathed or will she suffer the same fate as her Aunt or those before her who have unwillingly landed the role as a pawn in the game of "life and death".Dark and Twisted Games was a fast-paced read , but the only thing that I had hoped for besides the whole Cardelian, Jaxon and Eden storyline was the possible Buck and Eden storyline as he taunted her and then near the end he was sort of nice and I was hoping that maybe we could discover the true reason why he taunts Eden so much .
If you love Teen Supernatural stories with a Suspense Element with a touch of edginess then check out Heidi Acosta's new release of Dark and Twisted Games.
If you love Teen Supernatural stories with a Suspense Element with a touch of edginess then check out Heidi Acosta's new release of Dark and Twisted Games.
June 6, 2016
Thank you YA Bound Book Tours and Heidi Acosta for giving me a chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
*Note to Book Tour: I am aware that I am a bit late and I apologize for that.*
This book to me a while to get through. It started off really slow and cliche. It was a very typical girl goes to high school, not popular, and swoons over every good looking guy that walks by kinda story. At least in the beginning but I'll get to that in a bit. Also, the book was written in present tense, and this is a personal opinion of mine because I don't really like present tense in a story, but I was a little bothered y that but then again, that's just me. When the two other main characters were introduced into the story, it was very Vampire Diaries-y, and then there was a plot twist in I think the middle of the book and it's just like what wow that's interesting. The plot does get better in the last 3/4 of the book but I really finished the book because I had to, and not really because I wanted to. The first 3/4 didn't really manage to hook me in because of the slow plot, the use of present tense, the cliched main character, and a few typos. I was really glad when the plot started to get a bit thicker because I was finally getting to see some action, and it sucks that the book, even though it's part of a series, ends that the way it does. Overall, there was huge potential for the plot and for me, I found it...eh. However, if you don't mind books written in present tense, love a little hot guy action and a whole lot of suspense, this book may be for you and you could pick it up!
*Note to Book Tour: I am aware that I am a bit late and I apologize for that.*
This book to me a while to get through. It started off really slow and cliche. It was a very typical girl goes to high school, not popular, and swoons over every good looking guy that walks by kinda story. At least in the beginning but I'll get to that in a bit. Also, the book was written in present tense, and this is a personal opinion of mine because I don't really like present tense in a story, but I was a little bothered y that but then again, that's just me. When the two other main characters were introduced into the story, it was very Vampire Diaries-y, and then there was a plot twist in I think the middle of the book and it's just like what wow that's interesting. The plot does get better in the last 3/4 of the book but I really finished the book because I had to, and not really because I wanted to. The first 3/4 didn't really manage to hook me in because of the slow plot, the use of present tense, the cliched main character, and a few typos. I was really glad when the plot started to get a bit thicker because I was finally getting to see some action, and it sucks that the book, even though it's part of a series, ends that the way it does. Overall, there was huge potential for the plot and for me, I found it...eh. However, if you don't mind books written in present tense, love a little hot guy action and a whole lot of suspense, this book may be for you and you could pick it up!
May 29, 2016
Dark & Twisted Games is the first book in the Hearts of Faeylon Series and pretty much the first book I have read by Heidi. I love fantasy, so when reviewers were requested, I volunteered though I had plenty on my plate already. I will be honest, I was not sure what to make of the blurb at first and could not quickly decide what my feelings toward the book were going to be. I will also say, that I really liked the cover quite a bit.
Dark&Twisted Games ebook cover
There are quite a few stereotypical elements to this book like the unpopular girl Eden being besties with the popular and the whole super gorgeous brothers everyone wants to date, one being a football star and all. See, basically nothing new in terms of plot lines. However, no one ever said stories always needed to be crazy original; there is nothing wrong with the classics, which is why they are classics. I always feel like the talent resides in the small twists and changes that are added that make the story stand out.
There we meet Eden, seems to be a nice girl, labeled a freak stuck in a small town and living with her crazy aunt. Then comes the boy, I meant boys and we meet Cardelian and Jaxson two brothers and recently moved in foster kids. Cardelian is the gorgeous star athlete that all the girls are fawning about and well Jaxson equally as gorgeous is more the angsty loner type and the one Eden fancies.
Full review: http://www.amkindabusy.com/2016/05/29...
Dark&Twisted Games ebook cover
There are quite a few stereotypical elements to this book like the unpopular girl Eden being besties with the popular and the whole super gorgeous brothers everyone wants to date, one being a football star and all. See, basically nothing new in terms of plot lines. However, no one ever said stories always needed to be crazy original; there is nothing wrong with the classics, which is why they are classics. I always feel like the talent resides in the small twists and changes that are added that make the story stand out.
There we meet Eden, seems to be a nice girl, labeled a freak stuck in a small town and living with her crazy aunt. Then comes the boy, I meant boys and we meet Cardelian and Jaxson two brothers and recently moved in foster kids. Cardelian is the gorgeous star athlete that all the girls are fawning about and well Jaxson equally as gorgeous is more the angsty loner type and the one Eden fancies.
Full review: http://www.amkindabusy.com/2016/05/29...
October 9, 2015
Eden is sixteen, a social outcast, and spends her time writing or caring for her aunt - who the citizens of Copake Falls have labelled as "schizophrenic" because she insists she was abducted by aliens. Eden is naive and on paper I have little in common with her, but Heidi Acosta creates Eden with an emotional vulnerability which means that we want to embrace her and her story.
Heidi Acosta has clearly thought carefully about her plot and how she wants her reader to react. We initially start Dark and Twisted Games assuming so much, only for nothing to be exactly as it seems. Despite the book's title, the fact that events become so sinister shocks us.
Cardelain is the star football player, grade A student, popular and gorgeous. On the other hand, Jaxson is anti-social, mysterious, cold - and utterly captivating.
It is Eden's relationship with these very different brothers, which may look like a simple love-triangle, but actually leads Eden on the most frightening, and challenging journey of her life. The lines between who is the hero and who is the villain blur and Eden is manipulated into thinking she is the one losing her sanity.
Dark and Twisted Games is a great novel for readers who like their Young Adult romances mixed with a little danger and fantasy.
Heidi Acosta has clearly thought carefully about her plot and how she wants her reader to react. We initially start Dark and Twisted Games assuming so much, only for nothing to be exactly as it seems. Despite the book's title, the fact that events become so sinister shocks us.
Cardelain is the star football player, grade A student, popular and gorgeous. On the other hand, Jaxson is anti-social, mysterious, cold - and utterly captivating.
It is Eden's relationship with these very different brothers, which may look like a simple love-triangle, but actually leads Eden on the most frightening, and challenging journey of her life. The lines between who is the hero and who is the villain blur and Eden is manipulated into thinking she is the one losing her sanity.
Dark and Twisted Games is a great novel for readers who like their Young Adult romances mixed with a little danger and fantasy.
March 19, 2016
I've been contemplating on whether I liked this read or not. I did enjoy it, but I'm aware that it lacked something. Depth? Character depth? I can't put my finger on it. The characters didn't do much for me. They were the normal cast we're used to in books. Eden the outcast, Liv her popular best friend, Cardelain the good guy, Jackson the bad boy, and there's a mean girl and a bully etc... You get the point. I didn't connect well with either character because they are hard to relate to.
I will say, with all the twists and turns, you will be kept on edge with Dark and Twisted Games. It's a roller coaster ride that keeps you guessing until the end. It is a paranormal read, and I haven't had that in a while, so I was quite entertained.
There are more things that push me to like it though: great plot, Heidi Acosta's perfectly detailed writing, and the fact that I couldn't predict what would happen- all win me over. So if you're a fan of those things, and paranormal, I'd say pick up a copy of the first installment of the Hearts of Faeylon, Dark and Twisted Games.
http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2015...
I will say, with all the twists and turns, you will be kept on edge with Dark and Twisted Games. It's a roller coaster ride that keeps you guessing until the end. It is a paranormal read, and I haven't had that in a while, so I was quite entertained.
There are more things that push me to like it though: great plot, Heidi Acosta's perfectly detailed writing, and the fact that I couldn't predict what would happen- all win me over. So if you're a fan of those things, and paranormal, I'd say pick up a copy of the first installment of the Hearts of Faeylon, Dark and Twisted Games.
http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2015...
April 5, 2016
Absolute Waste Of Time
There were no redeemable qualities to this book. I couldn't even make myself finish reading it. It sucked! The girl was a complete idiot. She constantly made a fool of herself. Every time she got around the guy she liked she did something stupid and embarrassing. That's only cute for a couple of times, after that it's just humiliation. Not to mention she was a stalker. She had no pride when she would go chasing after this guy. No wonder he treated her like crap thru the whole book. Of course in the end he was really in love with her. Yeah right! What a crock. Don't waste your time.
There were no redeemable qualities to this book. I couldn't even make myself finish reading it. It sucked! The girl was a complete idiot. She constantly made a fool of herself. Every time she got around the guy she liked she did something stupid and embarrassing. That's only cute for a couple of times, after that it's just humiliation. Not to mention she was a stalker. She had no pride when she would go chasing after this guy. No wonder he treated her like crap thru the whole book. Of course in the end he was really in love with her. Yeah right! What a crock. Don't waste your time.
April 16, 2016
**I received a copy from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Dark and Twisted (Hearts of Faeylon Book 1) by Heidi Acosta was a surprise. Full of twists and turns, I had no idea where is was going, and I couldn't stop reading it so I could find out!!!
A definite must-read, and I cannot wait for further stories in the series!
Dark and Twisted (Hearts of Faeylon Book 1) by Heidi Acosta was a surprise. Full of twists and turns, I had no idea where is was going, and I couldn't stop reading it so I could find out!!!
A definite must-read, and I cannot wait for further stories in the series!
March 18, 2015
I saw potential in the plot premise and Acosta's skilled descriptive writing, but this novel needs some revising to flow better. Full review here at SeeKikiRead.com.
February 1, 2016
Definitely worth the read for those that enjoy a a fun paranormal story with, a twist. I look forward to the second book.
April 22, 2016
3 Stars. An interesting plot but needed more editing to sharpen it up.
July 19, 2016
Jaxson!!!!!!!! This was an original concept with lots of layers and intrigue. And as I said before, it also has Jaxson. Can't wait for the second one to come out!
July 23, 2016
Twilight meets Raven Boys meets Fae Courts. Could have been better. There were typos and spelling errors. Also, what's up with damn book I read ending in a cliffhanger!
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