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| Read (July 30 - August 1, 2014) |
Publication Date: August 7, 2014
Publisher: Orchard Books
Number of Pages: 256
Genre/s: Young Adult, Contemporary, Mystery, Paranormal
Source: Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley
A haunting mystery, romance in the vein of The Lovely Bones by New York Times bestselling author.
"The yard of this house is a graveyard of moments and everything left behind is a clue. And I am here to dig."
There's a ghost haunting 208 Water Street. She doesn't know who she was, or why she's still here. She does know that she is drawn to Maggie, the new girl in town, and her friends - beautiful, carefree Pauline and Liam, the boy who loves her.
But the ghost isn't all that's lurking in Gill Creek... Someone is killing young girls all across the county. Can the ghost keep these three friends safe? Or does she have another purpose? - (source)
"The yard of this house is a graveyard of moments and everything left behind is a clue. And I am here to dig."
There's a ghost haunting 208 Water Street. She doesn't know who she was, or why she's still here. She does know that she is drawn to Maggie, the new girl in town, and her friends - beautiful, carefree Pauline and Liam, the boy who loves her.
But the ghost isn't all that's lurking in Gill Creek... Someone is killing young girls all across the county. Can the ghost keep these three friends safe? Or does she have another purpose? - (source)
I came into The Moment Collector, also known as The Vanishing Season, knowing that it's subpar compared to Tiger Lily, so it really surprised me how much I ended up loving this novel. Tiger Lily will always be my favorite book from Anderson but The Moment Collector is definitely beautiful in its own right.
“This is what I think the world is showing me. We are souls at a common cause. We are only here to love. That was my great story all along. We are here to take chances, and fail, and keep trying.”
Words are failing me right now. I don't think my review will give this book the justice it deserves, but I'll try my best, and I will start with what everybody should know by now: Anderson is a wonderful writer. I've always loved her writing. It has a languid quality to it that will enfold you and ease you right into the story. I am so glad this book came at the right moment, right when I'm looking for a novel that will leave me an emotional wreck.
The Moment Collector introduces us to Maggie, Liam, Pauline, and the lonely ghost that watches over them. These characters had somehow managed to steal pieces of my heart right under my nose. It seemed impossible at the beginning but something clicked along the way, and I was swept up by the three of them and if I only knew what was coming, I would have kept my heart heavily guarded.
This is not a ghost story nor it is a mystery novel and many will grumble and find themselves disappointed that this novel is marketed as such. If anything, the seemingly misleading blurb became a diversion, cleverly blinding the readers' eyes from the bigger picture. I was intrigued all throughout, trying to find scraps of clues that never came, only to be blindsided by something that never even entered my mind in the first place. The Moment Collector is a character-driven story. It depicts real characters in real situations with real relationships. I am aware that this would not appeal to all readers, but when it does find its rightful reader, it will resonate and leave a mark. I know, because it did for me.
“We're like two angels floating over heaven. It's our perfect moment, and it never disappears. Even now, I can see us, even long after the moment is gone. Love can't be taken back once it's given.”
I'm actually crying as I'm writing this review, something I haven't done in a long while and I am at a loss as to what to do first: Should I clutch my heart to help ease the pain or should I wipe my tears away because it's blurring my vision? The Door County became my home. Hesitantly at first, but just like Maggie, I felt like I lost something in the end. For a short while, Maggie, Liam and Pauline became my persons and I just know I will read this again, maybe tomorrow, next week, a year after today, and I'd willingly get my heart broken once more.
Nothing ever really happens in The Moment Collector but this could be the best book I will read all year. Without any doubt, Jodi Lynn Anderson has earned a special place in my heart as one of my most favorite authors.
Cupid's Verdict:
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| 4 Cupids |
A copy was provided by the publisher at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
After seeing.. a ton of "not as good" reviews or even the DNF review from Mel (The Daily Prophecy), I'm glad to see that someone enjoyed it (in addition to Tanja (Ja Ci Tamati) lol. I'm glad you love the writing, Sarah :) Yessss! I heard that it's not a ghost story per se even if the synopsis hints at that. Yay for a great character-driven story. AWWWW!!!! *pats and hugs you* don't cry, cupcake! I love writing reviews that get me so emotional, but they rarely happen. It's awesome how much this book moved you. My persons. HEH. Christina Yang and Meredith Grey :') I'm so happy you loved it, Sarah!
ReplyDeleteI think Tanja and I had same book tastes. :) I've read those negative/DNF reviews so I really thought I wouldn't like it but it was awesome. I can always count on Jodi Lynn Anderson to move me. YESSSSSS! That's where I got that. I didn't know you're a Grey's Anatomy fan too, Siiri.
DeleteI knew it it was Siiri! My fave stalker as it is ;)) No really Sarah you have no idea how happy I'm that you enjoyed this one. I totally agree that Tiger Lily is something made of perfection, but this one was amazing too. Anderson really possesses that amazing gift when it comes to writing and creating characters. Yes this was not a ghost story, but in my opinion coming of age story. And real one with that. *aww hugs* Lovely review :)
DeleteThanks Tanja. Siiri was the culprit! I'm glad I didn't have to be the one to tell you. Hehe. Tiger Lily is on another level, I agree. I am so glad I didn't pick this one up for the mystery and I just read it with arms open. I'm actually regretting how welcoming I was with this book because my heartttt but I'm so so happy I really enjoyed it. Glad you did too!
DeleteYou're crying, writing this review? MAN, this must mean this truly is one heck of a book. Only a powerful one could move you that much. I'm so excited to try this one now. I loved Tiger Lily and want to read more from this amazing author and her lyrical writing prowess. Thank you so much for this review, Sarah :) It was truly heartfelt!
ReplyDeleteFaye at The Social Potato
Faye, read this without minding the blurb and I'm 80% sure you'd love this. It's reminiscent of Tiger Lily in a way that it's quiet yet vicious. I am deeply moved. This is definitely one the best books I've read this year. I hope you'll like it too! *fingers crossed*
DeleteThe ending really sent me spinning that's for sure! XD I felt more "meh" towards the book as a whole, but I just read Tiger Lily (which I loooved) and then this straight after. So I think I was just a little underwhelmed? The writing was nice though. I'm glad it really hit you in the feels, though! Nothing like a good ol' feel punching book, right?! ;)
ReplyDeleteAaaah, I get it. You were still suffering from Tiger Lily's clutches so I totally get why you didn't like this book as much. I would probably feel the same way if I immediately read it after Tiger Lily. I'm all bruised and broken, Cait. Just the way I like it. :DDD
DeleteThis book sounds like it got a very emotional response out of you, Sarah. I've heard some fabulous things about Jodi Lynn Anderson and I have yet to read anything by her, but judging from your review I need to change that soon. It sound like a strong and intense book that I could find myself enjoying. And the best book you've read this year? Wow!
ReplyDeleteLovely review, Sarah!
It did, Nick! Please hold me. OMMMGGG, I think I need to talk to you first before you go read this book. I just don't want you to get all disappointed. This one is not for everybody. I think it got to me because I was feeling pretty vulnerable that day and I soaked too much of Anderson's words than what is safely recommended. XD Anyway, you must try Tiger Lily first and expect that you *might* not love The Moment Collector as much. There. You're all prepped. Haha!
DeleteI was super confused for a second there Sarah - I didn't realize The Vanishing Season had a different title as well as cover, and the cover reminded me so much of the Jodi Meadows series that I didn't know what was going on. I'm easily baffled it would seem:) Glad this was such a spectacular read for you - the fact that you cried as you wrote the review makes me a little nervous that this story doesn't end well, but I can't help but be curious anyway!
ReplyDeleteHAHAHA. I know what you mean, Jenny. When I first saw reviews of The Moment Collector, I was like WTF Anderson has another book aside from The Vanishing Season? V. confusing. And I totally agree that it looks like Incarnate. I didn't even realize this until you said it. Lol! I always cry when I feel too overwhelmed with emotions. I was sad about the way things ended but it was the wrapping up that really got to me. It was just so freaking...beautiful. Sigh.
DeleteI liked Tiger Lily better too. In fact, I got a little bored during The Vanishing Season, but I did like the ending and it was very emotional. Thanks for the great review.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Annette. The ending was heartrending, I agree. I should've expected and prepared for it more knowing that it's Anderson at the helm, but it turns out, I'm still too naive. *sniffs*
DeleteI liked Tiger Lily more, and if you've seen my review, yes, this one, if given to the right reader, would love this book. I really loved JLA's writing, simply beautiful. But I really wanted my mystery! It sucks that it wasn't that kind of book.
ReplyDelete~ Dre @ Sporadic Reads
It's sad that this book has a very misleading blurb. I think it would be greatly enjoyed by everyone if its blurb is more honest to the story. Stll, Anderson's writing is beautiful and even those who didn't like this book would appreciate that. :)
DeleteI haven't actually read Tiger Lily (I don't do retellings), but The Vanishing Season is coming up on my calendar and I'm looking forward to ti. I'm glad you confirmed that she's such an amazing writer, I had a great feeling about her.
ReplyDeleteAfter such glowing recommendation, I can't wait to read this.
Thank you for your review.
Aw Maja! You have to try it some time. Tiger Lily is just amazing. And Anderson is a wonderful writer. I really hope you'd love this as much, Maja!
DeleteI'm thrilled to know that you ended up loving this book, as Tiger Lily didn't really work out for me, as it did with everyone else I know. But despite reading some mixed reviews for this book, I'm glad I got a copy, as books which leave you a mess afterwards I tend to love a lot! This really is a gorgeous review! :)
ReplyDeleteReally? It's sad to know Tiger Lily didn't work for you, Jasprit. But yeaah, it's always a good thing when a book leaves you so emotional. I hope you'll like this better!
DeleteI have also heard from other people that this one was subpar to Tiger Lily, which is why it's a happy surprise to hear how much you loved this one! It always means a lot to me when I hear that you are crying over a book because it must mean that you were truly moved by said book. I can see what you mean when you say this book might not be for everyone though... but I really like that for the people who do like it, it will really resonate with them because that makes it so special. I'll have to give this one a go sometime! Thanks, Sarah - such a beautiful review.
ReplyDeleteThank you! I am truly moved by this book, Aylee. I believe this is a really special book. I hope that when you get around to reading this, you'd love it as much as I do.
DeleteThere is absolutely nothing like a good ghost story, and it sounds like this one is chock full of emotion. I swear…this one sounds like it is right up my alley. I'm definitely buying it ASAP. Wonderful review!
ReplyDeleteI'm afraid this is not much of a ghost story, as it is an emotion-filled book. I hope you read this this one, Melissa. I can't wait to know what you'll think of it.
DeleteAnother beautiful review Sarah my love. I think more people should read your reviews. The best book of 2014? Woah, Well I'm surprised! I've read so many so-so reviews (as in ratings) of this book and they were all diappointed that there wasn't much of a ghost story in it. I must say that's what I was looking forward the most so now I'm not sure anymore. BUT, since you liked it so much, I MAY give it a try. ^^ Gorgeous review!
ReplyDeletePS. You wrote me such a pretty comment on my blog by the way; thanks! :D
Aww, you always say the nicest things, Lola! It's definitely the first book I really really loved this year. I think you just have to manage your expectation and completely disregard the blurb before you read this one. Please give it a try, Lola. I want to know what you'll think of this. :)
DeleteHaha, if you insist. XD I think it's still on NetGalley. Will check it out!
DeleteThat really was a killer ending. I think you liked this more than I did, Sarah, but I'm in total agreement that the writing was beautiful...and character-driven stories are definitely a nice change from all the fast-paced shallow stuff we see in a lot of YA.
ReplyDeleteI loved TIGER LILY, so I'm looking forward to this author's next book, though!
Wendy @ The Midnight Garden
I saw your review/initial reaction first, Wendy, and I was so scared that this was gonna be a disappointing book. While I am sad that you didn't like this as much as Tiger Lily, I'm really happy it worked for me. I'm really looking forward to any story JLA comes up with. :D
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteTotally got confused in my last comment, so had to delete it haha.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, this Jodi Lynn Anderson cover totally reminds me of Incarnate. It's crazy similar!
I'm glad this was so awesome for you. I'm kind of hesitant to read a JLA book, since I really wasn't a fan of Tiger Lily :(
I totally get it! The cover does look like Incarnate. :D Aww, sad to hear Tiger Lily didn't work out for you. I hope you get around to reading this one someday.
DeleteWow, this is so wonderful that the story gave you the major feels and that the story connected with you, Sarah! I've seen the mixed reviews - so I'm glad to see that you pointed out the fact about it being character driven, rather than just the marketed "ghost & mystery" story. Now, I'm even more curious. Wonderful and thoughtful, review :) Happy Friday!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kim! Yes the blurb is really misleading. I think a disclaimer is needed or something. It really is all about the feels and characters for me and this book was very successful in providing both.
DeleteI love this review! I hate it when a book is misshelved because it can be SO misleading to readers, and negative feedback usually ensues. Thanks for clearing a few things up! I can't say that I have ever cried while writing a review, but it speaks volumes that you're still afflicted with the FEELS days later.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Carmel. I was really so surprised that this was an emotional read for me. This book really came at the right time.
DeleteI don't think it's an entirely bad thing that this book was shelved as a "mystery" -- it some ways, I think it really was a mystery, and the unexpectedness of how the whole story turned out was one of the biggest plus points for me as well. I love being surprised! :3 But wow, it's amazing how much this book impacted you. Can't say it did the same for me, but then again I pretty much have a heart of steel, so...
ReplyDeleteThe characters: I KNOW. I was really shocked at how attached I grew to them! The connection wasn't instant because I actually found the book kind of boring around the first 50% of it, and the characters were kind of bland, imo. But in the end, even though I didn't relate to Maggie or Pauline or Liam as much as I wanted to, they were still endearing in their own way. And you know how I feel about Pauline and Liam being such dumbasses and selfish jerks.
asdjkfl;qswqg THEY WERE AWFUL, DAMMIT. (<-- Still can't get over their selfishness.)
Heh, I think the main reason why I didn't absolutely love this book was because nothing much happened, like you said. I'm the kind of person who loves action, so dull moments really bring a book down. All the same, so happy that you enjoyed this so much! I'm definitely looking forward to reading Tiger Lily as well, that's like one book everyone seemed to love.
I think I'm getting mellow, Meg. It must be because I'm getting older and older. You know how it feels when something unfair happens to a good yet flawed person, and he/she is still forgiving and wishes all the best for those who have hurt her...it was such a suckerpunch for me. They were really awful. I felt like Maggie was used so that they can have their HEA. But even though I feel angry toward them, I still like them because they were so real. Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you Tiger Lily is the bestest! You should really read it, Meg!
DeleteWow Sarah, it sounds like this was an incredibly powerful read for you, especially since you were crying when you read this review! I can see how much it affected you emotionally and the characters sound absolutely amazing. Too bad there isn't really a mystery aspect to it, but it sounds like the beautiful writing will carry you all the way through. Wonderful review!
ReplyDeleteIt was! I think I will need to recover first before I even attempt to reread this book. Thank you, Jeann! :D
DeleteAny book that evokes those kind of emotions in someone, I have no choice but to read it. It honestly sounds like a really heart wrenching journey, even if there doesn't seem to be much happening. That cover is absolutely stunning as well. Running off to Goodreads to check it out and hopefully can pick up a copy next week. Thank you for such an incredible review Sarah <3
ReplyDeleteYay, Kelly! I hope the story works for you as much as it did for me. :)
DeleteSo . . . I haven't even read Tiger Lily yet. I KNOW. I'm going to. I've got this one on my wishlist already, and it definitely sounds like an emotional read. I'm glad you loved it, and I'm looking forward to seeing what all the Anderson fuss is about ;)
ReplyDeleteHeehee. Anderson is a heart maimer and a writing goddess. I hope you get to read from her soon, Jessica. :)
DeleteHAVE YOU READ TIGER LILY?! PLEASE DO. I loved that one more than this. It's been months since I've read this because I still don't know what to feel. I should have known that Anderson will pull something like that. THAT ENDING JUST KILLED ME.
ReplyDeleteLovely review, Sarah! Let me know if you've read Tiger Lily. We'll cry together for it's brilliance and its beautiful and tragic ending! :D
TIGER LILY was amazing! I loved that book so much. *cries with you*
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