What do you think?
Rate this book
The Station #1
Dying to Forget
Librarian's note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN: B008S2RKAU
For some, the day you die is only the beginning.
The Station books are part of a YA/NA Fantasy series that follow teenage anti-heroine, Piper Willow, after she dies and wakes up in the afterlife at a place called the Station, and is offered redemption – in the form of a job.
After Piper dies, she gets two choices: enter her own personal hell, or go back to Earth and become the voice of conscience inside a boy’s head. Can she save Sloan from meeting the same fate? A tale of hope that will warm your heart.
For some, the day you die is only the beginning.
The Station books are part of a YA/NA Fantasy series that follow teenage anti-heroine, Piper Willow, after she dies and wakes up in the afterlife at a place called the Station, and is offered redemption – in the form of a job.
After Piper dies, she gets two choices: enter her own personal hell, or go back to Earth and become the voice of conscience inside a boy’s head. Can she save Sloan from meeting the same fate? A tale of hope that will warm your heart.
179 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2010
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
November 12, 2015
Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk
This was a quick read about a girl who committed suicide, and then ended up with a new job – trying to stop other people from committing suicide. Sounds weird, and it was a bit, because other than the person’s own morals, there is nothing to stop them from convincing someone else to commit suicide!
Anyway, this was an interesting story, and I’d forgotten the cliff-hanger! Will be interesting to see what happens in book 2!
6.5 out of 10
This was a quick read about a girl who committed suicide, and then ended up with a new job – trying to stop other people from committing suicide. Sounds weird, and it was a bit, because other than the person’s own morals, there is nothing to stop them from convincing someone else to commit suicide!
Anyway, this was an interesting story, and I’d forgotten the cliff-hanger! Will be interesting to see what happens in book 2!
6.5 out of 10
April 4, 2017
Read for the 2017 POPSUGAR Challenge prompt 'An Audiobook'
SPOILERS
29/3 - This was not a good book, so I'm pleased that I didn't pay for it (as a Kindle first, then the Audible audiobook edition in order to make it fit for the challenge).
I had so many problems with this book. First, Piper is dreadfully judgemental of all the females in the book. In her eyes they're fake-breasted bimbos (even her BFF ), except for her second assignment from the 'Station'. Abby starts out as the victim of bullying from some of the aforementioned bimbos, until Piper gets into her head and explains to her about how she can become more popular by straightening her hair. It seems straight hair is a magical cure for depression caused by the tragedy of being the daughter of a murderer in a small town. The next day she suddenly becomes more popular with the general population of the school (the main instigators/Kardashian lookalikes don't care how straight her hair is) and starts eating her lunch with two other students, rather than in the toilets. If you feel better with straight hair than I say straighten it (I certainly do), but that can't be enough to bring a suicidal teen back from the edge, it's never as simple as that.
Second, the fact that as a teenage victim of rape who eventually killed herself there is no way it's okay for Piper to be inserted into the head of an adult male, to spend the next two months living in his head with no way to shut herself off from anything that he experiences. She wasn't even aware that her first assignment was going to be a man until she looked at 'herself' naked in the mirror and saw a penis. How damaging would that experience be when your only other contact with a naked man was when he was raping you? Yet, all Piper could think about was how gorgeous Sloan was and what it would feel like to touch him and have him touching her : /
Third, the narrator, Kimberly Woods is not cut out to do any audiobooks with male characters in them. Whenever she had to voice a male character she lowered her voice and sort of 'growled' and it just came out sounding like Lea Thompson's Back to the Future character Lorraine Bains McFly when she was the 'run down' 1985 version (as opposed to the spruced up, rejuvenated version that she became after Marty got back from 1955 in both the first and second movies). This was my first audiobook and listening to Woods' performance doesn't make me interested to listen to any more.
I've read a couple other reviews and it seems that 'reading' this instead of 'listening' to it would not have made my experience any better. Most of the reviews with low ratings mention frequent editing mistakes and Dawson's apparent inability to use get past her use of the descriptive term 'cool'. So, even if you go with the idea that the reason I didn't enjoy the audiobook was Wood's narration of it, I think I would have rated the written book even worse (well, the rating couldn't get any worse, but this review would have said all it says now, plus each editing mistake I caught, as well).
In summation, this could have been a really interesting book, but then it was ruined by disappointing writing, disturbing plot devices and personality traits, and a huge cliff hanger a la Lost season finales. I won't be reading the sequels (even if I could get them free) as I've read a review of the fourth book and the explanation behind the 'Station' is rubbish and I refuse to give my time to an author who cops out of her story like that. If you're interested enough to know what happens, but don't want to actually read any more of the books I recommend you read Ryan's review as it gave the answers I was looking for in five minutes of reading, saving me hours of annoyance.
SPOILERS
29/3 - This was not a good book, so I'm pleased that I didn't pay for it (as a Kindle first, then the Audible audiobook edition in order to make it fit for the challenge).
I had so many problems with this book. First, Piper is dreadfully judgemental of all the females in the book. In her eyes they're fake-breasted bimbos (even her BFF ), except for her second assignment from the 'Station'. Abby starts out as the victim of bullying from some of the aforementioned bimbos, until Piper gets into her head and explains to her about how she can become more popular by straightening her hair. It seems straight hair is a magical cure for depression caused by the tragedy of being the daughter of a murderer in a small town. The next day she suddenly becomes more popular with the general population of the school (the main instigators/Kardashian lookalikes don't care how straight her hair is) and starts eating her lunch with two other students, rather than in the toilets. If you feel better with straight hair than I say straighten it (I certainly do), but that can't be enough to bring a suicidal teen back from the edge, it's never as simple as that.
Second, the fact that as a teenage victim of rape who eventually killed herself there is no way it's okay for Piper to be inserted into the head of an adult male, to spend the next two months living in his head with no way to shut herself off from anything that he experiences. She wasn't even aware that her first assignment was going to be a man until she looked at 'herself' naked in the mirror and saw a penis. How damaging would that experience be when your only other contact with a naked man was when he was raping you? Yet, all Piper could think about was how gorgeous Sloan was and what it would feel like to touch him and have him touching her : /
Third, the narrator, Kimberly Woods is not cut out to do any audiobooks with male characters in them. Whenever she had to voice a male character she lowered her voice and sort of 'growled' and it just came out sounding like Lea Thompson's Back to the Future character Lorraine Bains McFly when she was the 'run down' 1985 version (as opposed to the spruced up, rejuvenated version that she became after Marty got back from 1955 in both the first and second movies). This was my first audiobook and listening to Woods' performance doesn't make me interested to listen to any more.
I've read a couple other reviews and it seems that 'reading' this instead of 'listening' to it would not have made my experience any better. Most of the reviews with low ratings mention frequent editing mistakes and Dawson's apparent inability to use get past her use of the descriptive term 'cool'. So, even if you go with the idea that the reason I didn't enjoy the audiobook was Wood's narration of it, I think I would have rated the written book even worse (well, the rating couldn't get any worse, but this review would have said all it says now, plus each editing mistake I caught, as well).
In summation, this could have been a really interesting book, but then it was ruined by disappointing writing, disturbing plot devices and personality traits, and a huge cliff hanger a la Lost season finales. I won't be reading the sequels (even if I could get them free) as I've read a review of the fourth book and the explanation behind the 'Station' is rubbish and I refuse to give my time to an author who cops out of her story like that. If you're interested enough to know what happens, but don't want to actually read any more of the books I recommend you read Ryan's review as it gave the answers I was looking for in five minutes of reading, saving me hours of annoyance.
September 18, 2019
1.5 Stars
To be honest, I don't want to write this review. I can't remember the last time I've wanted to throw a book across the room due to plot devices but this book conjured up that feeling multiple times throughout.
The story starts out with Piper at a party, who is then drugged and raped. A few months pass and she is struggling with depression, which includes reckless endangerment of her and others and she starts cutting herself. Fast forward a little more and she causes someones death due to lack of caring and commits suicide as a result.
This is when she enters the Station, which is a place where those who commit suicide make it their mission to help those still alive fight their suicidal thoughts and depression. After glossed over training and therapy sessions, she's good. As in, she's mentally at a state where she understands she was a survivor of rape and that causing her friend's death was an accident. All truths but how can there be such extreme cases that causes her to commit suicide be wrapped up in a couple paragraphs?
Let's move on, because that's not what made me mad. What really had me fired up (and if you read my status updates you'll see) was when she enters the mind of a man. . . . As a way to help those still alive, the suicidal dead enters the body of the living and experiences everything they do. Everything.
Piper didn't even know her assignment was a man until she got down there and sees 'herself'. Instead of freaking out, the only thing she cares about is how handsome he is.
I couldn't wrap my mind around it. The only experience Piper had with a naked man was when she was being raped and now she's living inside a man and has no issues?! Having a few glossed over therapy sessions isn't believable enough for me as a reader to think Piper is okay with this.
Anyways, the book continues on. She experiences a few intimate settings as the man doing some heavy make out sessions with his girlfriend. Which, I have to point out, Piper is extremely judgemental. Instead of being happy for her assignment who was about to shoot himself in the head. She's more concerned about the single mom who is showing interesting in him. Calling her a cougar and other nasty things. It was terrible.
There's more I could say about this book. How she helps a girl beat bullying by straightening her hair. How the first time she even has a reaction to the memory of her raper is when a boy kisses the girl that's her current assignment (I guess she had to be in a girl's body for it mean something).
Aside from all the pretty terrible plot devices and judgmental lead character (which I could be forgiving of if she improved) the idea was good. I loved the thought of sending personal agents to someone who was about to give up on life. So, it wasn't all terrible I just didn't like how everything went about.
To be honest, I don't want to write this review. I can't remember the last time I've wanted to throw a book across the room due to plot devices but this book conjured up that feeling multiple times throughout.
The story starts out with Piper at a party, who is then drugged and raped. A few months pass and she is struggling with depression, which includes reckless endangerment of her and others and she starts cutting herself. Fast forward a little more and she causes someones death due to lack of caring and commits suicide as a result.
This is when she enters the Station, which is a place where those who commit suicide make it their mission to help those still alive fight their suicidal thoughts and depression. After glossed over training and therapy sessions, she's good. As in, she's mentally at a state where she understands she was a survivor of rape and that causing her friend's death was an accident. All truths but how can there be such extreme cases that causes her to commit suicide be wrapped up in a couple paragraphs?
Let's move on, because that's not what made me mad. What really had me fired up (and if you read my status updates you'll see) was when she enters the mind of a man. . . . As a way to help those still alive, the suicidal dead enters the body of the living and experiences everything they do. Everything.
Piper didn't even know her assignment was a man until she got down there and sees 'herself'. Instead of freaking out, the only thing she cares about is how handsome he is.
I couldn't wrap my mind around it. The only experience Piper had with a naked man was when she was being raped and now she's living inside a man and has no issues?! Having a few glossed over therapy sessions isn't believable enough for me as a reader to think Piper is okay with this.
Anyways, the book continues on. She experiences a few intimate settings as the man doing some heavy make out sessions with his girlfriend. Which, I have to point out, Piper is extremely judgemental. Instead of being happy for her assignment who was about to shoot himself in the head. She's more concerned about the single mom who is showing interesting in him. Calling her a cougar and other nasty things. It was terrible.
There's more I could say about this book. How she helps a girl beat bullying by straightening her hair. How the first time she even has a reaction to the memory of her raper is when a boy kisses the girl that's her current assignment (I guess she had to be in a girl's body for it mean something).
Aside from all the pretty terrible plot devices and judgmental lead character (which I could be forgiving of if she improved) the idea was good. I loved the thought of sending personal agents to someone who was about to give up on life. So, it wasn't all terrible I just didn't like how everything went about.
January 11, 2013
You ever finish one of those books and as soon as you read that very last word you are curing the author? Like Damn you Damn you for leaving me hanging like this!!! You know, a "Whoa is me" moment? Yep, that was what happened to me as soon as I finished this outstanding book! While I did grab it while it was free on Amazon, I would gladly have paid the $2.99 or even more. So anyways, back to cursing of the author. Well this time, I jumped the gun because surprise surprise book two is available! So I'm sorry Trish, I'm sorry I was cursing you for a shocking, heart pounding, give me more RIGHT NOW ending after you wrote this most awesome book that I read in just a few hours because I couldn't seem to stay away from the story. I already bought book two, Dying to Remember, before I even wrote this review. Really? Read it. Get you a copy and read it. I was so caught up in the story and characters that chapter after chapter were flying past me. Five most excellent stars for Dying to Forget and Trish Marie Dawson!
January 16, 2013
I loved this book!! I felt incredibly sorry for her at first, thinking when is she ever going to catch a break?!?! The fact that she thought suicide was her only option, is sad, as I've dealt with a suicide in my family. It's hard to think they are that desolate.
BUT.... she finds something that she's actually good at! She becomes a volunteer at the Station. She's not sure where it is or how the people that are there have gotten there, but she thrives at what she chooses to do! She becomes the voice in a person's head who is thinking about suicide themselves, and she enjoys it!
The ending was surprising to me... and I LOVE SLOAN!!!! Definately can't wait to read the next one!!!!
BUT.... she finds something that she's actually good at! She becomes a volunteer at the Station. She's not sure where it is or how the people that are there have gotten there, but she thrives at what she chooses to do! She becomes the voice in a person's head who is thinking about suicide themselves, and she enjoys it!
The ending was surprising to me... and I LOVE SLOAN!!!! Definately can't wait to read the next one!!!!
January 30, 2013
Having recently read I Hope You Find Me I went on Amazon immediately and got this book for my kindle. I was hugely impressed with Trish Dawson's writing, and was really looking forward to starting this series.
At first I wasn't sure if I would like this book. Suicide is a very courageous subject matter to base a book on, and I just wasn't sure it would be for me. However, I'm glad I continued as it was well worth the sadness I felt reading the first few chapters.
When Piper takes her own life, she finds herself in The Station, where she gets the choice to move on, or go back as the subconscious of a person in need and attempt to prevent them from hurting themselves. It's a very imaginative plot line, one of the most original I have read in a long time. The book was well written, and again I enjoyed Dawson's writing style immensely. I felt a myriad of emotions reading this novel, and while the Young Adult genre is not one I frequently read I am really looking forward to reading part 2 of this series!
At first I wasn't sure if I would like this book. Suicide is a very courageous subject matter to base a book on, and I just wasn't sure it would be for me. However, I'm glad I continued as it was well worth the sadness I felt reading the first few chapters.
When Piper takes her own life, she finds herself in The Station, where she gets the choice to move on, or go back as the subconscious of a person in need and attempt to prevent them from hurting themselves. It's a very imaginative plot line, one of the most original I have read in a long time. The book was well written, and again I enjoyed Dawson's writing style immensely. I felt a myriad of emotions reading this novel, and while the Young Adult genre is not one I frequently read I am really looking forward to reading part 2 of this series!
December 18, 2012
I promise to be brutally honest with my opinion, but it should not be taken as fact. Any reader should read it for themselves, before they decide if this book has any merit or not. Do not judge this book biased solely on my opinion. If you do, you might miss out on a great read. You never know. It could happen. My review may contain spoilers, but I really strive to be spoiler-free.
1. Strong Main Character/ Female Heroine: Piper is lost soul of a girl, who has been through a lot of trauma. She is funny, caring, and naïve: a perfect innocent combination until that innocence is lost forever. She toughens up and when she finally arrives at the station, she is determined to make it to the light by helping others. She understands hurt and regrets like no other. However, her caring nature towards her first client might have done more damage than she had anticipated. Although, the narrative goes through the life of Piper, Sloan, and Abby, the reader sees the whole experience through Piper’s eyes the way she sees it. It is an interesting POV that I enjoyed every much, but she is a very well developed character so maybe that is why I found the book so enjoyable. 5 out of 5 stars
2. Strong Main Character / Male Hero: Sloan’s story, thoughts and feelings are interpreted by Piper and his story is only about one third of the novel. Although he is not really a hero, I know that he plays an important role in the whole story. Sloan is a man considering suicide, because of all the scars he has and had caused during his childhood. Piper tries to turn his life around and makes him feel alive again, but she leaves him too soon. Without her guidance, Sloan’s condition deteriorates, especially with Piper’s parting words to him. He is not a strong person, because of the events that happened in his life. I feel like I actually know him after reading his part of the story, although I wish I knew more about what he was thinking all of those times. 4 out of 5 stars
3. Strong Main Character / Evil Antagonist: Ryan is not a real evil mastermind, but he was a really despicable person in the book. Even though he was not in the book for very long, I hated him. How could he have done that to her?! How could any guy do that is beyond me, but I’m a girl, so maybe I don’t understand. But there is nothing that makes sense about doing THAT. If you cannot get it, than pay for it. Don’t make someone do something they don’t want to do. How much more blunt can I get? He gets a three for evilness, but I would have liked to have seen it more developed. 3 out of 5 stars
4. Strong Minor Characters: Abby’s story is another third of the book seen from Piper’s point of view, which was less interesting than learning about Sloan’s, especially since she was so easy to manipulate. I would have liked to see more of Sloan than Abby to be honest, but her story was very tragic as well. Piper helped her to get through it, but I hate how the author did it. Improving someone’s outward appearance does not stop bullying; it actually intensifies if you are looking better than ever before. Niles is an interesting character that I still have not figured out. He is a caring person that loves his job, but I do not get why he has not moved on yet, if he has been there for such a long time. What wrongs does he still have to make right? I still do not know Kerry-Anne’s story, but she forms a sisterly attachment to Piper. She keeps Piper grounded as she takes in her new role in life or should I say, afterlife. It is very tragic what happened to Bree, but that is all it is. She was not in the story long enough for me to form an attachment to her or really understand who she was. She did not seem like the greatest friend in the world, let me tell you that much. 3 out of 5 stars
5. The Plot: This book, the first in the series, has a very interesting plot to it. I have never read anything quite like this before. I have read plenty of afterlife books before, but they usually have the person coming back to their own body in the end. I do not believe that that will happen to Piper, though I think it would be amusing if she woke up and everything was a dream and she moved and met Sloan. That would be epic. As you read, I am so into this book that I am fantasizing about it. The plot is unique, although I do think that it needs a little more development. The book was too short of a read to really obtain any information to the fullest. 4 out of 5 stars
6. The Setting: There is not a lot of effort put into describing any of the scenes, because of how short the whole book is. I would appreciate a little more details and descriptions about some of the places Piper sees. I love descriptions and fine details. These are the things that make a book worth reading to me. 2 out of 5 stars
7. The Dialogue: The dialogue was very believable and used properly throughout the book. No words were said just to take up space. The words chosen seemed very deliberate, but not unnatural. Dialogue is what gives life to a book and if you do not have great dialogue, than your book will not be sustaining enough. This dialogue was in a great balance throughout the book and comic relief was added at all the appropriate times to keep the story from getting too dark. 4 out of 5 stars
8. Engaging Surprises: There were a few surprises, not a lot, but enough for me to keep on reading through some of the slower paced parts. There were a few wow moments that were not the surprises that I mentioned before that elicited an emotional response from me, because I just could not believe how people could be so cruel. Even though this is a fictional book, situations like the ones described in the book happens every day top all people around the globe. It is saddening, but also sickening that these people do not see the hurt that they are causing to the people around them. 3 out of 5 stars
9. Climax: I am not really sure where the climax was in this book. There really did not seem to be a highlight in this book, when everything else seemed to be going downhill. All that really happened was after her last mission and I did not notice a real rise in suspense. The climax was in synch with the ending. 2 out of 5 stars
10. Emotional Response: There were scenes in this book that were so emotional. Okay, so most of the book was emotional, but at some points, I actually cried real tears over what was happening with these fictional characters. It was amazing how connected I felt to these characters and I took everything that happened to them to heart. I felt like I knew a lot about some of them by the end of the book. This book does a great job of pulling the reader into the story and actually caring about the characters in it. 5 out of 5 stars
11. Ending: The ending has me craving for the second book in the series. The ending was unexpected and exhilarating. It was the ending that Piper really needed, but did not need. It complicates the plot and I am all for complications as long as it is not TOO crazy with everything else going on in the story. This ending just seemed like a natural course of events and this book really needed that kind of an ending. I love the ending so much. It is a very well-deserved, well-executed ending. 5 out of 5 stars
12. The Writing: This author’s writing took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride. It had such an emotional element that the few little grammatical errors there were I could easily gloss over, because of how well written the whole thing was. I would read anything by this author, if everything this author writes is as well written as this book. 4 out of 5 stars
13. The Artwork: The cover is really amazing, although it does not have anything to do with the story. I love the girl, the clothes, and the pose. It is a work of art, but again, nothing to do with the book. So, I have to take off a star for that, otherwise this cover would have been perfect if it had pertained to the plot. 4 out of 5 stars
14. Genre: The story had an undercurrent of Christianity, but I believe that Atheists could enjoy this book as well. There is a strong paranormal element, but not the way most paranormal novels are. It is a sort of romance, but I do not think any real romance starts until the second book. I did not see any real romance in this book, at least with the main character Piper. I do not know if I would call this book paranormal, because it is more of a different type of paranormal than what I am used to. I do not really know what to classify this book as. 4 out of 5 stars
15. Title: The title suits the book very well. It relates to the plot and the characters. I love it! The author did a great job of picking this title out, out of so many possibilities. Dying to Forget is the core message behind this book. That some people would rather die than remember the past, present, and what the future might hold for them. 5 out of 5 stars
Overall, I give this book 3.8 stars, so I will be rounding it to 4 stars. This book is a great start for this series and I hope that I will love it as much as the first book.
1. Strong Main Character/ Female Heroine: Piper is lost soul of a girl, who has been through a lot of trauma. She is funny, caring, and naïve: a perfect innocent combination until that innocence is lost forever. She toughens up and when she finally arrives at the station, she is determined to make it to the light by helping others. She understands hurt and regrets like no other. However, her caring nature towards her first client might have done more damage than she had anticipated. Although, the narrative goes through the life of Piper, Sloan, and Abby, the reader sees the whole experience through Piper’s eyes the way she sees it. It is an interesting POV that I enjoyed every much, but she is a very well developed character so maybe that is why I found the book so enjoyable. 5 out of 5 stars
2. Strong Main Character / Male Hero: Sloan’s story, thoughts and feelings are interpreted by Piper and his story is only about one third of the novel. Although he is not really a hero, I know that he plays an important role in the whole story. Sloan is a man considering suicide, because of all the scars he has and had caused during his childhood. Piper tries to turn his life around and makes him feel alive again, but she leaves him too soon. Without her guidance, Sloan’s condition deteriorates, especially with Piper’s parting words to him. He is not a strong person, because of the events that happened in his life. I feel like I actually know him after reading his part of the story, although I wish I knew more about what he was thinking all of those times. 4 out of 5 stars
3. Strong Main Character / Evil Antagonist: Ryan is not a real evil mastermind, but he was a really despicable person in the book. Even though he was not in the book for very long, I hated him. How could he have done that to her?! How could any guy do that is beyond me, but I’m a girl, so maybe I don’t understand. But there is nothing that makes sense about doing THAT. If you cannot get it, than pay for it. Don’t make someone do something they don’t want to do. How much more blunt can I get? He gets a three for evilness, but I would have liked to have seen it more developed. 3 out of 5 stars
4. Strong Minor Characters: Abby’s story is another third of the book seen from Piper’s point of view, which was less interesting than learning about Sloan’s, especially since she was so easy to manipulate. I would have liked to see more of Sloan than Abby to be honest, but her story was very tragic as well. Piper helped her to get through it, but I hate how the author did it. Improving someone’s outward appearance does not stop bullying; it actually intensifies if you are looking better than ever before. Niles is an interesting character that I still have not figured out. He is a caring person that loves his job, but I do not get why he has not moved on yet, if he has been there for such a long time. What wrongs does he still have to make right? I still do not know Kerry-Anne’s story, but she forms a sisterly attachment to Piper. She keeps Piper grounded as she takes in her new role in life or should I say, afterlife. It is very tragic what happened to Bree, but that is all it is. She was not in the story long enough for me to form an attachment to her or really understand who she was. She did not seem like the greatest friend in the world, let me tell you that much. 3 out of 5 stars
5. The Plot: This book, the first in the series, has a very interesting plot to it. I have never read anything quite like this before. I have read plenty of afterlife books before, but they usually have the person coming back to their own body in the end. I do not believe that that will happen to Piper, though I think it would be amusing if she woke up and everything was a dream and she moved and met Sloan. That would be epic. As you read, I am so into this book that I am fantasizing about it. The plot is unique, although I do think that it needs a little more development. The book was too short of a read to really obtain any information to the fullest. 4 out of 5 stars
6. The Setting: There is not a lot of effort put into describing any of the scenes, because of how short the whole book is. I would appreciate a little more details and descriptions about some of the places Piper sees. I love descriptions and fine details. These are the things that make a book worth reading to me. 2 out of 5 stars
7. The Dialogue: The dialogue was very believable and used properly throughout the book. No words were said just to take up space. The words chosen seemed very deliberate, but not unnatural. Dialogue is what gives life to a book and if you do not have great dialogue, than your book will not be sustaining enough. This dialogue was in a great balance throughout the book and comic relief was added at all the appropriate times to keep the story from getting too dark. 4 out of 5 stars
8. Engaging Surprises: There were a few surprises, not a lot, but enough for me to keep on reading through some of the slower paced parts. There were a few wow moments that were not the surprises that I mentioned before that elicited an emotional response from me, because I just could not believe how people could be so cruel. Even though this is a fictional book, situations like the ones described in the book happens every day top all people around the globe. It is saddening, but also sickening that these people do not see the hurt that they are causing to the people around them. 3 out of 5 stars
9. Climax: I am not really sure where the climax was in this book. There really did not seem to be a highlight in this book, when everything else seemed to be going downhill. All that really happened was after her last mission and I did not notice a real rise in suspense. The climax was in synch with the ending. 2 out of 5 stars
10. Emotional Response: There were scenes in this book that were so emotional. Okay, so most of the book was emotional, but at some points, I actually cried real tears over what was happening with these fictional characters. It was amazing how connected I felt to these characters and I took everything that happened to them to heart. I felt like I knew a lot about some of them by the end of the book. This book does a great job of pulling the reader into the story and actually caring about the characters in it. 5 out of 5 stars
11. Ending: The ending has me craving for the second book in the series. The ending was unexpected and exhilarating. It was the ending that Piper really needed, but did not need. It complicates the plot and I am all for complications as long as it is not TOO crazy with everything else going on in the story. This ending just seemed like a natural course of events and this book really needed that kind of an ending. I love the ending so much. It is a very well-deserved, well-executed ending. 5 out of 5 stars
12. The Writing: This author’s writing took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride. It had such an emotional element that the few little grammatical errors there were I could easily gloss over, because of how well written the whole thing was. I would read anything by this author, if everything this author writes is as well written as this book. 4 out of 5 stars
13. The Artwork: The cover is really amazing, although it does not have anything to do with the story. I love the girl, the clothes, and the pose. It is a work of art, but again, nothing to do with the book. So, I have to take off a star for that, otherwise this cover would have been perfect if it had pertained to the plot. 4 out of 5 stars
14. Genre: The story had an undercurrent of Christianity, but I believe that Atheists could enjoy this book as well. There is a strong paranormal element, but not the way most paranormal novels are. It is a sort of romance, but I do not think any real romance starts until the second book. I did not see any real romance in this book, at least with the main character Piper. I do not know if I would call this book paranormal, because it is more of a different type of paranormal than what I am used to. I do not really know what to classify this book as. 4 out of 5 stars
15. Title: The title suits the book very well. It relates to the plot and the characters. I love it! The author did a great job of picking this title out, out of so many possibilities. Dying to Forget is the core message behind this book. That some people would rather die than remember the past, present, and what the future might hold for them. 5 out of 5 stars
Overall, I give this book 3.8 stars, so I will be rounding it to 4 stars. This book is a great start for this series and I hope that I will love it as much as the first book.
August 12, 2023
2023 review
3.5 star
6 years later! I was always curious to see where this series was going to go after the ending and I almost feel a relief now that I get to find out. As it usually goes, sometimes books don’t hold up well in the passage of time. Younger me found this book to be quite amazing and unique. And it is! But there are areas that need improvement. I wouldn’t really call this NA, it reads quite young despite the descriptions and traumas that occur.
~~
2017 review
5 stars
I actually really enjoyed this book. It was definitely original and fast paced. The storyline was emotional and the way the author described the characters and their characteristics made them very realistic to me. I certainly grew attached to each of their stories and the ending makes me eager to read the next one!
3.5 star
6 years later! I was always curious to see where this series was going to go after the ending and I almost feel a relief now that I get to find out. As it usually goes, sometimes books don’t hold up well in the passage of time. Younger me found this book to be quite amazing and unique. And it is! But there are areas that need improvement. I wouldn’t really call this NA, it reads quite young despite the descriptions and traumas that occur.
~~
2017 review
5 stars
I actually really enjoyed this book. It was definitely original and fast paced. The storyline was emotional and the way the author described the characters and their characteristics made them very realistic to me. I certainly grew attached to each of their stories and the ending makes me eager to read the next one!
February 10, 2013
Read the book under a few hours. I thought it was cute the ending, major cliffhanger.
I like the book because it takes a negative thing such as suicide and makes something positive out of it.
It was moving and heart warming.
Looking forward to the next book in the series. I wonder which direction it will go next.
I like the book because it takes a negative thing such as suicide and makes something positive out of it.
It was moving and heart warming.
Looking forward to the next book in the series. I wonder which direction it will go next.
October 19, 2017
This review was updated on A Weebish Book Blog as part of my TBT Review feature. Review publishes on 12/07/2017.
DYING TO FORGET is a freebie I picked up on a whim while perusing BookBub. I’m so thankful it caught my eye, because it was just as spectacular and mysterious as the synopsis made it sound.
When Piper’s first date goes horribly awry, she looses herself in reckless behavior which winds up leading her to haunting decisions with life altering ramifications. Now she must face the consequences of her actions—volunteer to coach teens into making better life choices or face her own personal hell for all eternity.
Guess which option she chooses?
Initially, I wasn’t sure DYING TO FORGET was the right fit for me. Heavy emotional stuff is introduced early on, as was some slut shaming which is a big no-no for me. However, once I waded through the first few chapters and more important events come to a head, I became enthralled and was able to shrug off some of my irritation. (The stellar character growth helped, too.) The writing was so descriptive that the images it conjured felt almost touchable. I quickly became invested in the characters and their issues.
The Station—a limbo of sorts—is described as a group of several sterile buildings that includes lots of paperwork as penance. Ick! Admissions is where the volunteer would decide on their choice, sign paperwork, and review their lives to their downfall. Can you imagine having to relive all the wrong choices you made? Yikes.
Piper was a great “antiheroine.” It was wonderful to watch her outlook on life change and with it, her character. She becomes devoted to helping others make better choices and grows to care for her charges. She’s the guardian angel you never knew you wanted, but every angsty teen needs.
Piper’s very first charge, Sloan, is a pretty boy on the outside but inside he’s full of self-hatred. He’s living by himself after the accidental death of his step-brother, the suicide of his mother, and the abandonment of his step-father. It’s understandable that he doesn’t want to be alone anymore. That is where Piper comes in. She uses the best of her abilities as this guys subconscious (poor guy… he has a female as a subconscious… can you imagine the confusion?) to move him down the right path, away from self harm, and towards loving himself. If anyone deserves love and happiness, it’s Sloan.
Plainly speaking, DYING TO FORGET was spectacular. I had some bumpy spots along the way, but character growth buffed out the edges. The Afterlife iDawson designed is so intriguing, the characters realistic and loveable, and a few surprising plot twists kept me on my toes. I was so focused on what was happening, I was completely blown away by the ending.
You got me, Dawson. I’m a new fan! I recommend this book to YA fans young and old and to anyone who loves a good fantasy.
DYING TO FORGET is a freebie I picked up on a whim while perusing BookBub. I’m so thankful it caught my eye, because it was just as spectacular and mysterious as the synopsis made it sound.
Oh, the life you can live in someone’s else’s mind…
When Piper’s first date goes horribly awry, she looses herself in reckless behavior which winds up leading her to haunting decisions with life altering ramifications. Now she must face the consequences of her actions—volunteer to coach teens into making better life choices or face her own personal hell for all eternity.
Guess which option she chooses?
Initially, I wasn’t sure DYING TO FORGET was the right fit for me. Heavy emotional stuff is introduced early on, as was some slut shaming which is a big no-no for me. However, once I waded through the first few chapters and more important events come to a head, I became enthralled and was able to shrug off some of my irritation. (The stellar character growth helped, too.) The writing was so descriptive that the images it conjured felt almost touchable. I quickly became invested in the characters and their issues.
The Station—a limbo of sorts—is described as a group of several sterile buildings that includes lots of paperwork as penance. Ick! Admissions is where the volunteer would decide on their choice, sign paperwork, and review their lives to their downfall. Can you imagine having to relive all the wrong choices you made? Yikes.
I couldn’t live with the pain and the guilt… spending eternity with it would just be… unbearable.
Piper was a great “antiheroine.” It was wonderful to watch her outlook on life change and with it, her character. She becomes devoted to helping others make better choices and grows to care for her charges. She’s the guardian angel you never knew you wanted, but every angsty teen needs.
Piper’s very first charge, Sloan, is a pretty boy on the outside but inside he’s full of self-hatred. He’s living by himself after the accidental death of his step-brother, the suicide of his mother, and the abandonment of his step-father. It’s understandable that he doesn’t want to be alone anymore. That is where Piper comes in. She uses the best of her abilities as this guys subconscious (poor guy… he has a female as a subconscious… can you imagine the confusion?) to move him down the right path, away from self harm, and towards loving himself. If anyone deserves love and happiness, it’s Sloan.
Plainly speaking, DYING TO FORGET was spectacular. I had some bumpy spots along the way, but character growth buffed out the edges. The Afterlife iDawson designed is so intriguing, the characters realistic and loveable, and a few surprising plot twists kept me on my toes. I was so focused on what was happening, I was completely blown away by the ending.
You got me, Dawson. I’m a new fan! I recommend this book to YA fans young and old and to anyone who loves a good fantasy.
February 5, 2013
This story was quick for me but I enjoyed it a great deal. This lovely gem covered some major issues that teens go through but the main issue that pops up is suicide. This is a tough subject to cover but the author handles it with great care. I did think how or what could drive someone to consider suicide while reading this story but I was mostly focused on the main character Piper and her journey.
Piper is the main character who is quite an a regular teen but with issues. The things she goes through in life makes her unique and a tough cookie, but sadly Piper decides to puts her flame out. It was a heart wrenching decision. Things change once Piper ends up at the Station. I liked this concept a great deal! To have another place to go other than heaven or hell is quite interesting to me. I'm sure the concept has been done but I think the way Trish explains what The Station is makes you think there is another chance to be happy with aspiration. So what choice does Piper make? Does she go to earth as a subconscious for a person who needs help or does she spend an eternity lost in her pain? The decision she makes is quite cool.
The story was so good that I'm not giving you the whole thing because I WANT you to go get it and read it! Although I must say there Piper's mentor who seems to be interesting. I am curious of his story. I wonder if the author will do his story but back to this book! One other character that popped out at me was Sloan and it was quite fascinating!! Each page of the story was filled with such wonderful writing as it held my attention in the late hours of when I was reading! I got lost in this story and finished it. The ending left me wanting more! It was a cliffhanger! It was amazing. I want more and I will have more of this Piper's story.
The cover is stunning. It popped out at me when I was browsing online. I want those boots from the cover. Someone get them for me? The cover and the synopsis sealed the deal for me so I had to purchase this book for my iPad. I'm so glad I did. I would have loved to have a paper copy of the book as well. I enjoy having both copies: paper and electronic. :)
Cover: A
Story: A
Posted at my blog: http://everydaybooksofgems.blogspot.com/
Piper is the main character who is quite an a regular teen but with issues. The things she goes through in life makes her unique and a tough cookie, but sadly Piper decides to puts her flame out. It was a heart wrenching decision. Things change once Piper ends up at the Station. I liked this concept a great deal! To have another place to go other than heaven or hell is quite interesting to me. I'm sure the concept has been done but I think the way Trish explains what The Station is makes you think there is another chance to be happy with aspiration. So what choice does Piper make? Does she go to earth as a subconscious for a person who needs help or does she spend an eternity lost in her pain? The decision she makes is quite cool.
The story was so good that I'm not giving you the whole thing because I WANT you to go get it and read it! Although I must say there Piper's mentor who seems to be interesting. I am curious of his story. I wonder if the author will do his story but back to this book! One other character that popped out at me was Sloan and it was quite fascinating!! Each page of the story was filled with such wonderful writing as it held my attention in the late hours of when I was reading! I got lost in this story and finished it. The ending left me wanting more! It was a cliffhanger! It was amazing. I want more and I will have more of this Piper's story.
The cover is stunning. It popped out at me when I was browsing online. I want those boots from the cover. Someone get them for me? The cover and the synopsis sealed the deal for me so I had to purchase this book for my iPad. I'm so glad I did. I would have loved to have a paper copy of the book as well. I enjoy having both copies: paper and electronic. :)
Cover: A
Story: A
Posted at my blog: http://everydaybooksofgems.blogspot.com/
February 22, 2013
Truly one of the best novels I've read in a long time. I can't say enough about this book, but spoilers are not my thing, so I will just say as much as I can without over doing it. Don't want to spoil it for anyone, but I do want to encourage you to read it.
I can only imagine how many people think about commiting suicide in this cruel world every day. Whether it's work, family, lifestyle or something tragic that has happened that one believes they can't possibly go on living with anymore, 'The Station' gives those that have given up another option besides Hell(although that is totally still an option). Being a volunteer is not an easy task, nor is it something that should be chosen lightly.
Ride with Piper on her journey in the after-life. I promise you will be picking up 'Dying To Remember' as soon as you finish the last page.
I highly recommend this novel to anyone between the ages of 14 - 100.
5 stars!
I can only imagine how many people think about commiting suicide in this cruel world every day. Whether it's work, family, lifestyle or something tragic that has happened that one believes they can't possibly go on living with anymore, 'The Station' gives those that have given up another option besides Hell(although that is totally still an option). Being a volunteer is not an easy task, nor is it something that should be chosen lightly.
Ride with Piper on her journey in the after-life. I promise you will be picking up 'Dying To Remember' as soon as you finish the last page.
I highly recommend this novel to anyone between the ages of 14 - 100.
5 stars!
Read
January 2, 2013What a wonderful surprise!
Five ♥♥♥♥♥ to Trish Marie Dawson
I loved this story. It caught me totally by surprise. I thought it would be about angels or similar to "It's a Wonderful Life" or something, but I was pleasantly surprised to find something completely different. This is not your usual young adult type of book. There is much, much more to this one. I highly recommend this book to anyone, not just young adults. I am on to the next book as I write this and so far, I don't think I'm going to be disappointed at all. I will definitely be reading more of Trish Marie Dawson and will be following her career closely. ♥♥♥♥♥
Five ♥♥♥♥♥ to Trish Marie Dawson
I loved this story. It caught me totally by surprise. I thought it would be about angels or similar to "It's a Wonderful Life" or something, but I was pleasantly surprised to find something completely different. This is not your usual young adult type of book. There is much, much more to this one. I highly recommend this book to anyone, not just young adults. I am on to the next book as I write this and so far, I don't think I'm going to be disappointed at all. I will definitely be reading more of Trish Marie Dawson and will be following her career closely. ♥♥♥♥♥
August 31, 2012
This book was so different from the stories that I usually read. I didn't expect the real and hard problems that were brought up and how enjoyable Trish Marie Dawson was going to make it. Honestly, I try to avoid books with the heavy issues that this story bears but the plot took a turn for the best and tried to make something good out of a bad situation. Despite the difficult issues that were brought to light I enjoyed Piper's attempt to help the world and especially Sloan. The way things left off, I cannot wait for the next installment in Piper's attempt to save the world.
March 4, 2013
Desde que leí la sinopsis me atrapo... el concepto del libro es novedoso y bastante interesante, es entretenido y muy fácil de leer.
Y ese final... ese final! Quiero el segundo libro en mi posesión con locura.
Y ese final... ese final! Quiero el segundo libro en mi posesión con locura.
February 7, 2013
I was a little hesitant about reading this book because it is about suicide, but I am glad I took a chance on it. it was beautiful and haunting and sad all at once. I *have* to read the next one now. There are a few errors here and there but overall it was an extraordinary read.
October 29, 2012
Dying To Forget (The Station) by Trish Marie Dawson is a young adult urban fantasy novelette about a girl named Piper who experiences three tragedies she can’t deal with and unfortunately commits suicide. She ends up at the station, a place in-between living and heaven where people who commit suicide must make a choice. Below is the book description from Amazon.
Piper Willow dies the summer after her high school graduation but she doesn’t make it to Heaven or Hell…instead she finds herself in a spiritual terminal called the Station. She’s given only two choices: Return to Earth as the subconscious for a person in need of some outside assistance, or move on and spend an eternity lost in her own sorrow and pain.
Does Piper have what it takes to save a life - to be the nagging voice inside someone else’s head - or will she fail and end up lost and tormented in limbo...forever?
I enjoyed this book. It’s written well, edited well, formatted perfectly for kindle, and the main character really has a distinct personality, but conflict rages in me because of the suicide subject matter and this book being aimed at the young adult age group. I’m always leery of YA books focusing on suicide. In this case, I feel the book isn’t glamorizing it in any way. The beginning shows it as a sad, heartbreaking choice. Once the reader passes the tragic beginning, a more positive message of finding purpose through helping others is presented.
The idea of the station afterlife for suicide victims is interesting, but not unique. I liked how it was handled, but similar ideas have been in books and movies like Beetlejuice before. The author is able to add her own flavor to the idea.
As soon as the main character Piper hops into her first assignment, I could see the ending coming. It wasn’t a surprise for me, but hopefully it will be for other readers. I’m a fellow writer so it’s easy for me to pick out a set up. For the age group this book is intended for it may be a surprising ending, less experience in life and all.
Even though I could predict what was coming, I still enjoyed reading the story. The writing was well done. The way the story ends, the author must be planning to write sequels. It leaves you on a cliffhanger of sorts. I’m looking forward to the next book coming out to see where it goes from the ending.
I do recommend this book despite its heartbreaking subject matter. It’s a great read if you are looking for a tearjerker in the beginning part of the book.
Piper Willow dies the summer after her high school graduation but she doesn’t make it to Heaven or Hell…instead she finds herself in a spiritual terminal called the Station. She’s given only two choices: Return to Earth as the subconscious for a person in need of some outside assistance, or move on and spend an eternity lost in her own sorrow and pain.
Does Piper have what it takes to save a life - to be the nagging voice inside someone else’s head - or will she fail and end up lost and tormented in limbo...forever?
I enjoyed this book. It’s written well, edited well, formatted perfectly for kindle, and the main character really has a distinct personality, but conflict rages in me because of the suicide subject matter and this book being aimed at the young adult age group. I’m always leery of YA books focusing on suicide. In this case, I feel the book isn’t glamorizing it in any way. The beginning shows it as a sad, heartbreaking choice. Once the reader passes the tragic beginning, a more positive message of finding purpose through helping others is presented.
The idea of the station afterlife for suicide victims is interesting, but not unique. I liked how it was handled, but similar ideas have been in books and movies like Beetlejuice before. The author is able to add her own flavor to the idea.
As soon as the main character Piper hops into her first assignment, I could see the ending coming. It wasn’t a surprise for me, but hopefully it will be for other readers. I’m a fellow writer so it’s easy for me to pick out a set up. For the age group this book is intended for it may be a surprising ending, less experience in life and all.
Even though I could predict what was coming, I still enjoyed reading the story. The writing was well done. The way the story ends, the author must be planning to write sequels. It leaves you on a cliffhanger of sorts. I’m looking forward to the next book coming out to see where it goes from the ending.
I do recommend this book despite its heartbreaking subject matter. It’s a great read if you are looking for a tearjerker in the beginning part of the book.
November 3, 2012
I wasn’t quite sure how I’d like this novel. I got it for free off of Amazon during a promotion of sorts, I suppose. It’s by an indie author and is the first in The Station series. I must say the plot and overall idea of this novel is quite original and fascinating. Piper Willow, the main character whose point of view the story is told from, suffers great losses. Her innocence is stolen from her by the school jock and her best friend dies in an accident that Piper feels was her fault. Due to these stressful events Piper starts cutting and eventually takes her life. That’s when the real story begins!
After Piper dies she finds herself in an afterlife place called the Station. In the Station she is greeted by her intake specialist, Niles. She is informed of what happened and what the purpose of the Station is. It is, as I said, fascinating. You see, people who have committed suicide are given two options: Work as a subconscious voice of sorts and reside inside another suicidal person and help them from hurting themselves, or move on. Piper choice the first option which involved much paperwork and training and when she was ready she received her first assignment, Sloan. A boy.
Piper finds herself attracted to Sloan, but she doesn’t let this interfere with her job. Rather she does everything she can to keep him from killing himself, and things seem to be improving, but before Piper can continue working with him, there is an emergency at the Station. Piper cannot go back to Sloan, so she is sent to a new assignment.
The ending is a total cliffhanger, and I want to kidnap the author right now and make her tell me what happens next. Or better yet, let me read what she’s wrote so far! Anyways, there’s some twists in the story particularly at the end and then there’s the mystery of the Station and the other side. It’s a really great book and you can purchase it on Amazon. I highly recommend it! It is a bit fast paced, but the writing style and story-line make up for it!
January 4, 2013
Dying to Forget is a YA novel that deals with a really tough subject. Suicide. It’s a terrible and sad thing and it’s real. So many young people suffer from feeling all alone and see no other way out. It’s a dangerous subject to broach, I think, but Trish does it well. She never glorifies it, she makes your heart ache for the character and what she’s going through, and when she makes her decision it is heart wrenching.
But that is only one small part of the story. After death those that commit suicide do not continue on to Heaven, Hell or any other afterlife you might believe in. Instead they are stuck in a purgatory type place called the station where they can either become volunteers and basically “make up for their mistake” or pass on, but with the knowledge that it won’t be pleasant.
I won’t give anymore of the plot away but I really liked that Trish showed consequences for actions but that there was also hope. In the end that’s what brings the light to this otherwise dark and sad topic.
Piper Willow, the main character, is so believable, so real that she could be the girl next door, a younger sister, or even me in high school. Her thoughts, her voice, are exactly what an 18 year old girl’s should be.
The story is short, novella length at only 178 pages but the plot is concise, moves along at a good place and never feels rushed. I’ve seen similar ideas to this one done before but this one is refreshing and new.
I give Dying to Forget 5 stars. Trish Marie Dawson sticks to her YA genre well, keeping it appropriate and in the right tone for her chosen audience, the characters are very well written and developed and the plot is fantastic and entertaining.
http://chrissteen.wordpress.com/2013/...
But that is only one small part of the story. After death those that commit suicide do not continue on to Heaven, Hell or any other afterlife you might believe in. Instead they are stuck in a purgatory type place called the station where they can either become volunteers and basically “make up for their mistake” or pass on, but with the knowledge that it won’t be pleasant.
I won’t give anymore of the plot away but I really liked that Trish showed consequences for actions but that there was also hope. In the end that’s what brings the light to this otherwise dark and sad topic.
Piper Willow, the main character, is so believable, so real that she could be the girl next door, a younger sister, or even me in high school. Her thoughts, her voice, are exactly what an 18 year old girl’s should be.
The story is short, novella length at only 178 pages but the plot is concise, moves along at a good place and never feels rushed. I’ve seen similar ideas to this one done before but this one is refreshing and new.
I give Dying to Forget 5 stars. Trish Marie Dawson sticks to her YA genre well, keeping it appropriate and in the right tone for her chosen audience, the characters are very well written and developed and the plot is fantastic and entertaining.
http://chrissteen.wordpress.com/2013/...
December 17, 2012
I cannot express how much I enjoyed this story. An emotional roller coaster doesn't describe it nearly enough but it's the only way I know how to describe it in short. The characters are well written, the story easy to follow, images play out in my mind as I read this story. I love it when an author can write in a way that allows me to visualize the story playing out before me. The author did wonderfully and had me feeling emotions as the characters went through emotional situations.
The take on the afterlife and the not heaven or hell but the station. I loved the direction the author took with this story. She kept me turning the pages and wanting more. There is not doubt about it I will be recommending this to many. A unique take on many things, and I love unique when a good book is involved. Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to review, I went ahead and purchased the Kindle copy regardless of the author sending me the book to review.
Moving right into Dying to Remember (The Station), I must have more, know more and continue in the character's journey... :D You won't know what you have your hands on till you've opened this book and joined Piper, riding the emotional roller coaster along with her.
The take on the afterlife and the not heaven or hell but the station. I loved the direction the author took with this story. She kept me turning the pages and wanting more. There is not doubt about it I will be recommending this to many. A unique take on many things, and I love unique when a good book is involved. Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to review, I went ahead and purchased the Kindle copy regardless of the author sending me the book to review.
Moving right into Dying to Remember (The Station), I must have more, know more and continue in the character's journey... :D You won't know what you have your hands on till you've opened this book and joined Piper, riding the emotional roller coaster along with her.
October 10, 2012
Next stop....Heaven??
Definitely a teenage female story. That isn't a knock, but a compliment. I've read a few YA books of late to test the waters and pass on suggestions to a couple of teenage girls I know. I will be giving it thumbs-up recommendation.
The story line is interesting. What happens to a teenage girl when she decides life is not worth living and finds herself in kinda of a half-way-house to heaven or hell.
The station isn't for everyone, only those who have decided to end their lives. They're given a choice to stay or move on. Staying is a much better option. Why? If you stay, you get the opportunity to help the living make a wiser choice by being placed inside the assignments brain. That I really liked. She does an excellent job of seeing life through others eyes. She did an excellent job in describing and detailing a teenage boy through a woman's eyes. Well done!
The cons. Not many, but the last two chapters were a bit slow for the ending cliff hanger. A little less would have made a heavier impact. But then again, I'm a male.
Who will like this. Hands down, all YA female readers. This is right up their alley.
Definitely a teenage female story. That isn't a knock, but a compliment. I've read a few YA books of late to test the waters and pass on suggestions to a couple of teenage girls I know. I will be giving it thumbs-up recommendation.
The story line is interesting. What happens to a teenage girl when she decides life is not worth living and finds herself in kinda of a half-way-house to heaven or hell.
The station isn't for everyone, only those who have decided to end their lives. They're given a choice to stay or move on. Staying is a much better option. Why? If you stay, you get the opportunity to help the living make a wiser choice by being placed inside the assignments brain. That I really liked. She does an excellent job of seeing life through others eyes. She did an excellent job in describing and detailing a teenage boy through a woman's eyes. Well done!
The cons. Not many, but the last two chapters were a bit slow for the ending cliff hanger. A little less would have made a heavier impact. But then again, I'm a male.
Who will like this. Hands down, all YA female readers. This is right up their alley.
September 6, 2012
As far away as possible from what I normally read, yet couldn't put it down. I will start out by saying even I was quite depressed and sad by chapter 3 and contemplated not finishing the book. However, being the dedicated reader I am, I refuse to put it down until I see the words "the end". This book touched on a very sensitive subject, suicide. It made you sad for all of the people out there, young or old, who become so lost, so sad, they take their own life. The great twist in this book was the person who committed suicide now has a choice of returning"strictly in a persons mind" to help them and guide them to reconsider suicide, see their lives in a positive, and make their life better, livable, one day at a time. Great job, I would actually go as far as saying this book should be recommended to all teenagers out there. Great job, I really hope book 2 will be available soon, looking forward to it!!!
January 28, 2013
I thought this book was AMAZING! The story flows. You will feel the complete gambit of emotion and makes you reconsider the people in your life. As a person who attempted suicide as a teen I can tell you that the emotions are raw and spot on. This book actually leaves the reader knowing there are other ways to deal with that major stress or drama. There is always an alternative. There is nothing worth the damage that a suicide does to the people who know.By taking your own life you indeed add more to their emotional baggage and stress. Fantastic book Trish Dawson and I cant wait to read Dying to Remember.
December 16, 2012
Very interesting book with a different take on death and suicide. I enjoyed reading it. Piper's life was not easy and the choices she made deeply affected her. The station is a very mysterious place and she slowy learns her purpose there. I understood her reluctance and fear being in such a place- it was hard to take in especially the reason everyone was there and the fact that children were there also. I liked the way Piper was with her assignments in that she gave them hope regardless of how her life ended. She still wanted what she ultimately failed to have for them. The ending was great definitely need to read the next book to see what happens!!
January 15, 2013
Simply wonderful! The story is unique and well conceived. The character development is spot on...the book is a study of characters and Trish brings them to life. The story is well written and consistent, technically and in content. I read I Hope You Find Me and LOVED it. This novel is just as good. It is a completely different genre and it impresses me how diverse her talent is. Trish handles some very sensitive subjects with grace and respect. That is not always easy to do. I am not speaking only of suicide and child abuse, but the way in which she handled intergender relations (no spoilers!). I will be purchasing the next installment and every one after that. Great read! Thanks Trish!
February 3, 2013
I was given this book by the author in return for an honest review.
WOW! What a fantastically refreshing story.
An incredible outlook as to what happens when we take our own lives.
In her darkest moment Piper succeeds, an wakes up at the station, a chance for her suicide not to have been in vain.
I felt like I was right there with Piper the entire time especially when she goes to be with her first charge only to be called back before she can finish her job. But the ending was just a shocker I couldn't believe it when Sloan appeared at the station. I definitely want to read the follow on and will be buying it as soon as I've got the money too.
WOW! What a fantastically refreshing story.
An incredible outlook as to what happens when we take our own lives.
In her darkest moment Piper succeeds, an wakes up at the station, a chance for her suicide not to have been in vain.
I felt like I was right there with Piper the entire time especially when she goes to be with her first charge only to be called back before she can finish her job. But the ending was just a shocker I couldn't believe it when Sloan appeared at the station. I definitely want to read the follow on and will be buying it as soon as I've got the money too.
January 14, 2013
Loved this book!! Got it because it was free on kindle and sounded interesting and I was not disappointed! The idea behind this story is something really original and I couldn't put it down. When I ended I was extremely pleased to own a kindle and be able to buy the next one straight away! The second one is just as brilliant and I was devastated to find out the third hasn't been published yet. I will be buying it as soon as its relished!
January 27, 2013
This YA novel was interesting and unique. Tastefully presented, Piper's suicide and its consequences to her are imaginative and thought-provoking. The idea that even those people who believe they have nothing left to live for can be helped to see their worth is a powerful message. I can't wait to read the next book in this series! (A minor complaint from an English teacher: please only use apostrophes when a word is possessive. Using apostrophes to make plurals confuses your reader.)
January 28, 2013
My jaw literally hit my chest with this ending!
Trish wove such an alluring story that I completely lost track of time. Another slightly controversial read as its centered around suicide. But the underlying tone of the story is so hopeful and the MC is nothing short of amazing. Her outlook on her situation is one that if in her shoes, I would hope I'd be able to be as strong and positive as she is.
Read this! You'll love it
Trish wove such an alluring story that I completely lost track of time. Another slightly controversial read as its centered around suicide. But the underlying tone of the story is so hopeful and the MC is nothing short of amazing. Her outlook on her situation is one that if in her shoes, I would hope I'd be able to be as strong and positive as she is.
Read this! You'll love it
September 3, 2012
This book is written well and the story seems to understand the trials and tribulations of the young teen world. The lives of the characters in the story are not perfect and a series of events brings the protagonist into an unsuspecting twist to her world. The story moves well, does not drag down and keeps new things coming.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews