Title: Torched
Author: Andrea Lynn Colt
Publication date: September, 2012
Genre(s): Young Adult (Mystery/Romance)
Source: Author
Format: e-book
Format: e-book
Pages: 370
Rose Whitfield's senior year just went up in smoke. Instead of having a blast with her best friend, her cheerleading squad, and her boyfriend Ryan, she's framed for arson. Popularity and criminal records don't mix, apparently.
Luckily, Rose knows who's framing her: Paxton Callaway. Paxton and Rose have spent years locked in a war of practical jokes. This time he's gone too far. Rose sets out to prove her innocence, win Ryan back, and take Paxton down hard.
Not necessarily in that order.
I am really glad that Andrea Lynn Colt contacted us regarding this book. I was immediately interested in getting into the story. First of all, I love how the cover is related to the actual story, unlike many other books out there. It's amazing how they got the heart which is because of the romance, and the fire because of the mystery in the book. Anyways, this story does talk about something being torched, or burnt down. The main protagonist, Rose, leads a great life. Part of the popular crowd, captain of the cheerleading squad, a perfect boyfriend and top grades. You can probably say that Rose leads a normal life, apart from her famous prank war with Paxton Callaway. Rose and Paxton have been constantly pranking each other since the eighth grade. Despising each other, they always try to find new ways to make the other suffer.
One day, the police wake up Rose in the middle of the night, claiming her guilty of arson. Not knowing anything, Rose is sure someone out there is framing her, Paxton Callaway being her number 1 suspect. It was crazy how well the crime was planned, and Rose had no way to prove that she was innocent, but it was great to see her not willing to give up to clear her name. What's shocking is that when Rose talks to Pax, it turns out he was in the hospital that day with an ankle injury. I don't want to spoil anymore things, but somehow, Rose allowed Paxton to help her find out who framed her. There were many confusing things in the book. Rose's boyfriend Ryan, her best friend Alina, even her parents. I loved how we got to know so many characters. I think the reason why Torched felt so realistic was because for once, there were many characters involved! The parents, the neighbors, the friends, the friends sisters and brothers, it was all so awesome!
One of the other things I loved in Torched, was the character development. Everyone was involved in the book, and you got to hear so many opinions, and so many characters changed during this journey. Rose and Paxton's relationship was so fun to read about! Especially since they were best friends when they were young. Also, the mystery was not disappointing, because it was not predictable (YAY)!!! I never even once predicted who the culprit was, and that's what always makes a mystery book awesome. I really recommend Torched to all young adult readers out there! It's a bit of fun, romance, and mystery! I will keep an eye out for future books by Andrea Lynn Colt.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! I normally turn down unsolicited requests like this because of time constraints, etc., but this book just called to me! :) I agree about the cover...it's simple and it's perfect!
ReplyDeleteThis story has been on my radar. I totally want to read this even more after your wonderful review Farah. I love romances that start off antagonistic! :)
ReplyDeleteI have been so curious about this book. I wasnt sure if it was a book for me, but I have been seeing a lot of good reviews, so I'm thinking I'll give it a shot. Great review!
ReplyDeleteTeresa @ Readers Live A Thousand Lives
Unpredictable and a good romance? Better yet, a romance that started off as friendship? I'm sold! This sounds brilliant. Great review, Farah!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a good read :) And I really like the cover! I might end up checking this out.
ReplyDeleteJanina @ Synchronized Reading
I haven't heard of this book, until your post! It sounds great and I'll be adding it to my pile, thanks!
ReplyDeleteI read Torched a few months ago and thought it was so fun and so well-written. Most of all, I loved the growth Rose & Paxton experienced.
ReplyDeleteI'm happy you liked Torched, too. Great review!
I'm not sure if I would pick up this book in the store. The cover is not very attractive to me and the blurb isn't really my thing :) I'm happy that you liked it so much and I do like mysteries, but I'm not sure I will read it. Great review anyway! :D
ReplyDeleteMel@thedailyprophecy
This does sound like a fun read! A good mystery with great characters? Definitely keeping an eye out for this one!
ReplyDeleteGreat review!
Ooo this one sounds like it keeps you guessing! I love it, and I'm happy you loved it as well!
ReplyDeleteThis one is definitely going on my TBR list!
Amber Elise @ Du Livre
A mystery that doesn't disappoint? That's awesome to know :)
ReplyDeleteHi Farah,
ReplyDeleteGood Romance!? Thanks for putting this on our radar. Love the plot and I enjoyed reading your review.
-Dannielle
I really loved the synopsis! This sounds awesome. And your review makes it even better. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI adore the cover for this book, it's simple yet effective. I love good character development glad to hear this book has some. Great review! <3
ReplyDeleteYes, I loved this one too! And definitely agree, not predictable! And fantastic characters as well, definitely.
ReplyDeleteOhhhh...I just read this too and LOVED it!!! I agree with everything you said: from the characters to the unlikely romance, to the story itself was very cute and enjoyable! I'm glad you enjoyed this too! Fantastic review, Farah! :D
ReplyDelete~ Maida @ Literary Love Affair
I love the cover of the book and it does sound very interesting! I'm glad you read and loved the book! Great review, Farah! :D
ReplyDeleteSarika @ The Readdicts