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Teen Psychic #1
Parallel Visions
Visions can kill you. Would you risk your life to save someone else’s?
Kate sees psychic visions of the future and the past—but only when she's having an asthma attack. When she "sees" her sister being beaten, she needs more visions to try to save her, along with a suicidal classmate—but triggering her asthma could kill her. Parallel Visions is the story of one brave, caring girl whose unusual gifts put her own life in danger.
A new YA fantasy from the award-winning author of SCARS and HUNTED.
Kate sees psychic visions of the future and the past—but only when she's having an asthma attack. When she "sees" her sister being beaten, she needs more visions to try to save her, along with a suicidal classmate—but triggering her asthma could kill her. Parallel Visions is the story of one brave, caring girl whose unusual gifts put her own life in danger.
A new YA fantasy from the award-winning author of SCARS and HUNTED.
146 pages, Paperback
First published November 15, 2012
7 people are currently reading
836 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Rainfield
12Ìýbooks646ÌýfollowersCheryl Rainfield is a queer, nonbinary lesbian award-winning author of SCARS, a Governor General Literary Award finalist, YALSA's Top 10 Quick Pick For Reluctant Readers, Rainbow Project List, Staff Pick for Teaching Tolerance, and which has frequently been banned by the far-right; and award-winning HUNTED and STAINED. They are also a cult torture survivor who writes strong girls and nonbinary teens
who save themselves; queer characters; and characters who overcome trauma.
And yes, it is their own arm on the cover of SCARS.
If you loved SCARS, you may want to get their free 38-page SCARS short story that picks up where SCARS left off by signing up for their author newsletter at
who save themselves; queer characters; and characters who overcome trauma.
And yes, it is their own arm on the cover of SCARS.
If you loved SCARS, you may want to get their free 38-page SCARS short story that picks up where SCARS left off by signing up for their author newsletter at
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 13, 2012
This review is from my review site, Try This Book on For Size.
Parallel Visions was one of those books I just wanted to devour in one sitting. It grabbed this reader from the first sentence! 'My chest hurts like my ribs are scraping my flesh with every breath, and I can already hear the wheeze.' Kate, the narrator of the story, has chronic asthma. Growing up with a brother who suffered asthma, that opening sentence practically made me hold my breath so I could listen for Kate's. What Rainfield did with the already present drama surrounding bad asthma attacks is pump up the severity of the action by adding foretelling visions to the character's attack experience. And she did it well!
A short read, Parallel Visions more than makes up for its size with its action packed goodness. The way Rainfield began the story with the immediate action of an asthma attack was a brilliant way to get the reader to become invested in the narrator. And the narrator's fears for what she 'sees' happening to the characters around her causes the reader to become invested with them as well. Kate sees a bleak future during her opening asthma attack...a future where death and mayhem occur. With her visions, Kate introduces us to a teen who is struggling with the destruction of her life at the hands of merciless and violent bullies. The visions also show us Kate's own sister, whose life is spiraling out of control at the hands of an abusive husband. The tone of the novel is set with the visions Kate experiences in this opening asthma attack. And the pace is put into full throttle as we move forward in a race against the possibly inevitable future Kate's visions have given her. But wait...this attack also introduces the reader to a possible hero (and love interest) in Kate's classmate, Gil. Gil is not only her classmate, but the brother of the teen Kate sees suffering at the hands of bullies. This draws Kate and Gil together, as they team up to figure out a way to save the day.
Rainfield is an excellent storyteller, and conscientious of the struggles facing today's teen community. Her books always deal with these hot-button topics in such an amazing way...a way that is neither preachy nor condescending. She makes her stories and characters approachable and real. She takes these issues and weaves wonderful stories around them. Readers can see her passion for justice and equality in every word...and they get a wonderful fast-paced ride of excitement thrown into the deal. Parallel Visions is no exception. This story deals with bullies, homophobia, abuse, rape, individuality and the struggles of being different. But beyond the task of tackling these tough issues, Rainfield delivers an exciting read. One you will remember for a long time. This is a story with bite. Just don't be surprised if you feel yourself gasping for breath along the way. Rainfield writes asthma like one who has experienced it in one way or another. Being someone who grew up around it, I constantly found myself panicked in the face of Kate's attacks. The writing is true and urgent.
Parallel Visions was one of those books I just wanted to devour in one sitting. It grabbed this reader from the first sentence! 'My chest hurts like my ribs are scraping my flesh with every breath, and I can already hear the wheeze.' Kate, the narrator of the story, has chronic asthma. Growing up with a brother who suffered asthma, that opening sentence practically made me hold my breath so I could listen for Kate's. What Rainfield did with the already present drama surrounding bad asthma attacks is pump up the severity of the action by adding foretelling visions to the character's attack experience. And she did it well!
A short read, Parallel Visions more than makes up for its size with its action packed goodness. The way Rainfield began the story with the immediate action of an asthma attack was a brilliant way to get the reader to become invested in the narrator. And the narrator's fears for what she 'sees' happening to the characters around her causes the reader to become invested with them as well. Kate sees a bleak future during her opening asthma attack...a future where death and mayhem occur. With her visions, Kate introduces us to a teen who is struggling with the destruction of her life at the hands of merciless and violent bullies. The visions also show us Kate's own sister, whose life is spiraling out of control at the hands of an abusive husband. The tone of the novel is set with the visions Kate experiences in this opening asthma attack. And the pace is put into full throttle as we move forward in a race against the possibly inevitable future Kate's visions have given her. But wait...this attack also introduces the reader to a possible hero (and love interest) in Kate's classmate, Gil. Gil is not only her classmate, but the brother of the teen Kate sees suffering at the hands of bullies. This draws Kate and Gil together, as they team up to figure out a way to save the day.
Rainfield is an excellent storyteller, and conscientious of the struggles facing today's teen community. Her books always deal with these hot-button topics in such an amazing way...a way that is neither preachy nor condescending. She makes her stories and characters approachable and real. She takes these issues and weaves wonderful stories around them. Readers can see her passion for justice and equality in every word...and they get a wonderful fast-paced ride of excitement thrown into the deal. Parallel Visions is no exception. This story deals with bullies, homophobia, abuse, rape, individuality and the struggles of being different. But beyond the task of tackling these tough issues, Rainfield delivers an exciting read. One you will remember for a long time. This is a story with bite. Just don't be surprised if you feel yourself gasping for breath along the way. Rainfield writes asthma like one who has experienced it in one way or another. Being someone who grew up around it, I constantly found myself panicked in the face of Kate's attacks. The writing is true and urgent.
December 27, 2012
**This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I liked "Parallel Visions" despite some minor flaws. I thought the premise was really interesting and well conceived, but the romance angle was oddly rushed and the plot felt strained at times. The book tried to do too many things too quickly for my taste. Also, I know this is a young adult book but the writing felt too simple and it was often not descriptive enough. I couldn't place myself within the story. Overall, it was a nice read but I found myself wanting something more.
I liked "Parallel Visions" despite some minor flaws. I thought the premise was really interesting and well conceived, but the romance angle was oddly rushed and the plot felt strained at times. The book tried to do too many things too quickly for my taste. Also, I know this is a young adult book but the writing felt too simple and it was often not descriptive enough. I couldn't place myself within the story. Overall, it was a nice read but I found myself wanting something more.
January 21, 2013
I, um, see things. Visions -- when I have an asthma attack. I know it sound crazy, but I always have -- and they always come true...
For as long as she can remember, Kate has had asthma -- triggered so harshly by so many things that she is frequently rushed off to the hospital, completely unable to breathe. And, for as long as she can remember, Kate has had visions. These visions are sometimes things in the past -- somethings events in the future -- but, the problem is that these visions always seem to come true. Sure, Kate has tried to intervene, to stop these terrible things from happening, but she never has any luck in convincing anyone that her visions are true and real!
Lately, Kate's asthma has been especially bad, so lately the visions have been extremely frequent and vivid. In the latest visions, Kate sees a classmate's sister committing suicide by intentionally overdosing on pills. At the same time, Kate sees her sister Jenna's husband, Mason, abusing his wife so horrifically that he ends up killing her! There is no way that Kate can allow either of these tragedies to happen, so it's time to convince SOMEONE that she can see the future -- before it's too late.
I really did have loads of fun with PARALLEL VISIONS, mostly because the author managed to grab my attention immediately on the first page and keep me hooked right up until the conclusion. I especially loved the visions and storyline revolving around Jenna, and I think the author did a fantastic job dealing delicately but honestly about a brutal and painful situation -- domestic violence. She also tackled other weighty topics, like rape, sexual identity, bullying, and suicide, without ever having the story feel heavy or unbearable. The additional of the links for support groups and further information at the end of the e-book was especially responsible and may provide a necessary starting point for anyone who identifies closely with these situations.
I only had one minor thing at the book that made it less than perfect for me, and that was the relationship between Gil and Kate. Although I did adore the characters and appreciated how candid and thoughtful they acted towards one another through the story, I think the progression of the romantic aspect of things felt a little rushed to me. To be fair, it's probably very realistic that teens in such a dangerous, adrenaline-filled situation would actually end up falling more quickly in a relationship, but I think I would have liked to see things slow down a bit on that end.
So, I only have one question left -- is this, indeed part of a series? I noticed a #1 beside the title on ÀÏ»¢»úÎÈÓ®·½·¨, which leaves me a bit hopeful. I would really enjoy seeing more of Kate, Jenna, and Gil if the story were to continue in the future!
If you love fast-paced young adult fiction with a paranormal twist, I don't think you can go wrong with PARALLEL VISIONS. It's quick, it's fun, and it's currently only 99 cents on Amazon -- so go for it!
For as long as she can remember, Kate has had asthma -- triggered so harshly by so many things that she is frequently rushed off to the hospital, completely unable to breathe. And, for as long as she can remember, Kate has had visions. These visions are sometimes things in the past -- somethings events in the future -- but, the problem is that these visions always seem to come true. Sure, Kate has tried to intervene, to stop these terrible things from happening, but she never has any luck in convincing anyone that her visions are true and real!
Lately, Kate's asthma has been especially bad, so lately the visions have been extremely frequent and vivid. In the latest visions, Kate sees a classmate's sister committing suicide by intentionally overdosing on pills. At the same time, Kate sees her sister Jenna's husband, Mason, abusing his wife so horrifically that he ends up killing her! There is no way that Kate can allow either of these tragedies to happen, so it's time to convince SOMEONE that she can see the future -- before it's too late.
I really did have loads of fun with PARALLEL VISIONS, mostly because the author managed to grab my attention immediately on the first page and keep me hooked right up until the conclusion. I especially loved the visions and storyline revolving around Jenna, and I think the author did a fantastic job dealing delicately but honestly about a brutal and painful situation -- domestic violence. She also tackled other weighty topics, like rape, sexual identity, bullying, and suicide, without ever having the story feel heavy or unbearable. The additional of the links for support groups and further information at the end of the e-book was especially responsible and may provide a necessary starting point for anyone who identifies closely with these situations.
I only had one minor thing at the book that made it less than perfect for me, and that was the relationship between Gil and Kate. Although I did adore the characters and appreciated how candid and thoughtful they acted towards one another through the story, I think the progression of the romantic aspect of things felt a little rushed to me. To be fair, it's probably very realistic that teens in such a dangerous, adrenaline-filled situation would actually end up falling more quickly in a relationship, but I think I would have liked to see things slow down a bit on that end.
So, I only have one question left -- is this, indeed part of a series? I noticed a #1 beside the title on ÀÏ»¢»úÎÈÓ®·½·¨, which leaves me a bit hopeful. I would really enjoy seeing more of Kate, Jenna, and Gil if the story were to continue in the future!
If you love fast-paced young adult fiction with a paranormal twist, I don't think you can go wrong with PARALLEL VISIONS. It's quick, it's fun, and it's currently only 99 cents on Amazon -- so go for it!
July 17, 2013
(Source: Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk.)
16-year-old Kate suffers from really bad asthma, and every time she has an attack, she also has a vision.
One morning at school she has two visions during one attack, the first of her friend Gil’s sister taking an overdose, and the second of her own sister being beaten by her boyfriend.
Now it’s up to Kate to save both Gil’s sister and her own.
Will Gil and his family believe her though? Will her sister admit that she is being domestically abused? And can she save both sisters before it’s too late?
This was a quick read about a girl that has visions.
Kate was an okay character who obviously wanted to help those that she saw in her visions. I did think she was maybe a bit too blunt at times though, I mean turning round to someone and saying ‘You’ve got a sister haven’t you? Well she’s going to try and commit suicide’ is not going to instantly make people believe and support you.
The person that drove me nuts in this book though was Kate’s brother-in-law Mason who persisted in beating up her sister, and spying on her. He even tried to label Kate as crazy, and he was just such a horrible person!
The storyline in this book was okay, and it was a very quick read. I think the story could maybe have been fleshed out a little bit, maybe with some details about previous visions that Kate had had and how she had tried to help etc. and maybe more could have been made of the romance part of the storyline.
The ending of the story was satisfying, and we weren’t left with a cliff-hanger which was good. I think the details about Kate’s asthma would maybe be helpful to people too.
Overall; an okay story about a girl who has visions.
6.5 out of 10.
16-year-old Kate suffers from really bad asthma, and every time she has an attack, she also has a vision.
One morning at school she has two visions during one attack, the first of her friend Gil’s sister taking an overdose, and the second of her own sister being beaten by her boyfriend.
Now it’s up to Kate to save both Gil’s sister and her own.
Will Gil and his family believe her though? Will her sister admit that she is being domestically abused? And can she save both sisters before it’s too late?
This was a quick read about a girl that has visions.
Kate was an okay character who obviously wanted to help those that she saw in her visions. I did think she was maybe a bit too blunt at times though, I mean turning round to someone and saying ‘You’ve got a sister haven’t you? Well she’s going to try and commit suicide’ is not going to instantly make people believe and support you.
The person that drove me nuts in this book though was Kate’s brother-in-law Mason who persisted in beating up her sister, and spying on her. He even tried to label Kate as crazy, and he was just such a horrible person!
The storyline in this book was okay, and it was a very quick read. I think the story could maybe have been fleshed out a little bit, maybe with some details about previous visions that Kate had had and how she had tried to help etc. and maybe more could have been made of the romance part of the storyline.
The ending of the story was satisfying, and we weren’t left with a cliff-hanger which was good. I think the details about Kate’s asthma would maybe be helpful to people too.
Overall; an okay story about a girl who has visions.
6.5 out of 10.
Read
December 22, 2012No rating or proper review yet. It was a darn good set up, but it was so freaking short. Like, there was SO much more that I wanted to read about, and now I'm frustrated, because. I. Want. Moaaaaaaarrrr.
Apart from that, the only things that bothered me were.. hmm.. The dialogue, I suppose. Just felt weird sometimes. (The dialogue is like the lovechild of Glee and some random Crime show) Maybe also the parents.. The relationships in general felt a little too forced. (Anyone here seen Caillou? There, the kid does really annoying shit all the time, and it ends with the parents doing all the right things, after, in the beginning, they didn't. Like a freaking guide for parenting, additionally showing a kid more annoying than our own ever could be, (with the excuse that he's either been adopted from two Neonazis and therefore is severely traumatized or has cancer.) so that we feel slightly reassured in our genetics or whatever) In any case, the end of the story, where the parents suddenly accept everything, are very supportive etc. reminded me somewhat of Caillou.)
Could relate to Kate, with her asthma-attacks. When I was younger, I had severe asthma attacks (though with less triggers, so it wasn't nearly as bad as in the book for me.) and they just sucked. Her whole "I was useless/Couldn't defend myself/Some cigarettes nearly killed me" speech was a big GPOY.
It's a short, very promising story. All the things I critized above (and yeah, in my actual review, I'll focus on both the good and the bad, instead XD) are most likely results of the lack of pages, though. I don't really know. Just finished it and all of that.. :)
Apart from that, the only things that bothered me were.. hmm.. The dialogue, I suppose. Just felt weird sometimes. (The dialogue is like the lovechild of Glee and some random Crime show) Maybe also the parents.. The relationships in general felt a little too forced. (Anyone here seen Caillou? There, the kid does really annoying shit all the time, and it ends with the parents doing all the right things, after, in the beginning, they didn't. Like a freaking guide for parenting, additionally showing a kid more annoying than our own ever could be, (with the excuse that he's either been adopted from two Neonazis and therefore is severely traumatized or has cancer.) so that we feel slightly reassured in our genetics or whatever) In any case, the end of the story, where the parents suddenly accept everything, are very supportive etc. reminded me somewhat of Caillou.)
Could relate to Kate, with her asthma-attacks. When I was younger, I had severe asthma attacks (though with less triggers, so it wasn't nearly as bad as in the book for me.) and they just sucked. Her whole "I was useless/Couldn't defend myself/Some cigarettes nearly killed me" speech was a big GPOY.
It's a short, very promising story. All the things I critized above (and yeah, in my actual review, I'll focus on both the good and the bad, instead XD) are most likely results of the lack of pages, though. I don't really know. Just finished it and all of that.. :)
January 13, 2013
Thanks, Netgalley and Rain and Sun Press for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for a review. This did not influence my review in any way.
I'm kind of torn, to be honest. I like this book mainly because the premise is really interesting. Imagine yourself having the ability to see bits and pieces of the past and of the future, but at the expense of your health. Our main character, Kate, has such abilities, but they only happen when she gets into asthma attacks that oftentimes end badly. The fact that the heroine is someone who can be so powerful and so vulnerable at the same time is intriguing and fascinating, and the author was able to capture that essence in this novel.
However, overall, the reading experience felt a bit rushed. Kate's voice is definitely smooth and a pleasure to read, but they weren't enough. I guess this is to be expected from a short novel, but it could definitely have used more internal monologue to make things more personal. There were simply many things happening, but they all happened too fast for my liking. Dialogues were thrown left and right without any substantial narrative that it just felt weird and choppy. The romance, on the other hand, also felt rushed.
I understand that this book was probably meant for another audience, perhaps reluctant readers. If that's the case, then it would definitely be a good book for them.
Overall, I liked the novel, despite its flaws that influenced my experience. 3 out of 5.
I'm kind of torn, to be honest. I like this book mainly because the premise is really interesting. Imagine yourself having the ability to see bits and pieces of the past and of the future, but at the expense of your health. Our main character, Kate, has such abilities, but they only happen when she gets into asthma attacks that oftentimes end badly. The fact that the heroine is someone who can be so powerful and so vulnerable at the same time is intriguing and fascinating, and the author was able to capture that essence in this novel.
However, overall, the reading experience felt a bit rushed. Kate's voice is definitely smooth and a pleasure to read, but they weren't enough. I guess this is to be expected from a short novel, but it could definitely have used more internal monologue to make things more personal. There were simply many things happening, but they all happened too fast for my liking. Dialogues were thrown left and right without any substantial narrative that it just felt weird and choppy. The romance, on the other hand, also felt rushed.
I understand that this book was probably meant for another audience, perhaps reluctant readers. If that's the case, then it would definitely be a good book for them.
Overall, I liked the novel, despite its flaws that influenced my experience. 3 out of 5.
July 17, 2013
This was a really quick read about a girl who suffers from bad asthma. Whenever she has an attack, she has visions for the future. Through her visions, you're taken through some very harrowing problems. Suicide, rape and domestic violence... Can Kate save two different sisters in time?
Kate was an okay character, but sometimes she did annoy me.
I know she was trying to make her sister see sense, but sometimes i just wanted to shout at Kate and tell her that she was only pushing her sister away more.
I also didn't get how she blurted out her vision to Gil about his sister. You can't just ask him if he has a sister because she's going to kill herself. Not when you've talked to him for five seconds!
She put herself at risk a lot. She made herself have asthma attacks to see what would happen to her sister. It's understandable that she wants to help, but how can she do that if she's in hospital?
I loved the ending.
Kate was an okay character, but sometimes she did annoy me.
I know she was trying to make her sister see sense, but sometimes i just wanted to shout at Kate and tell her that she was only pushing her sister away more.
I also didn't get how she blurted out her vision to Gil about his sister. You can't just ask him if he has a sister because she's going to kill herself. Not when you've talked to him for five seconds!
She put herself at risk a lot. She made herself have asthma attacks to see what would happen to her sister. It's understandable that she wants to help, but how can she do that if she's in hospital?
I loved the ending.
December 7, 2012
Sixteen year old Kate suffers from chronic asthma and her attacks trigger psychic visions related to people she knows. Of course, her family thinks these visions are the product of her illness, when she is under duress or oxygen deprived. When Kate 'sees' a young girl attempt suicide and learns this girl is the sister of her secret crush, Gil, she takes a chance and tells him about it, saving his sister's life.
With each asthma attack, Kate sees more and more frightening visions and risks her own life to help others, regardless of the consequences to herself.
This is a totally refreshing approach to a story about teens, illness, 'special gifts' and reaching out to help others! The author has touched on many subjects, including spousal abuse with a brilliant hand! This is one for all ages to read and think about with its well-structured plot and well-blended lessons to be learned! Highly recommended reading!
This edition was provided by NetGalley and CreateSpace in exchange for an honest review!
With each asthma attack, Kate sees more and more frightening visions and risks her own life to help others, regardless of the consequences to herself.
This is a totally refreshing approach to a story about teens, illness, 'special gifts' and reaching out to help others! The author has touched on many subjects, including spousal abuse with a brilliant hand! This is one for all ages to read and think about with its well-structured plot and well-blended lessons to be learned! Highly recommended reading!
This edition was provided by NetGalley and CreateSpace in exchange for an honest review!
May 9, 2013
Wise Bear Books Reviews Parallel Visions by Cheryl Rainfield - 5 Paws!
Parallel Visions by Cheryl Rainfield is a well written novel built on an important adolescent premise that is easily read in a day despite its sobering subject matter. Teenage Kate suffers from severe asthma which not only causes paralyzing fear, but also results in terrifying psychic visions. Her visions focus on friends and loved ones who are in imminent danger. Kate's instincts immediately propel her to warn, help, and aid those she sees. The problem—Kate doesn't know if the visions are past, present, or future.
Kate is tired of being the "sick kid." The fact that she possesses a form of psychic visions furthers her feelings of isolation, particularly since her family doesn't believe her whenever she's tried to broach the subject.
Things begin to change for Kate when she forces herself to confide in a schoolmate and prospective love interest, Gil. Gil is a firsthand witness to one of Kate's frightening asthma attacks after which he accompanies her to the school nurse. It is during this attack that Kate sees a vision of a teenage girl who is seriously contemplating suicide.
She accurately surmises this mystery girl to be connected to Gil—his sister, Inez, who was gang raped for being openly queer. Kate not only feels compelled to share this information with Gil despite the obvious risk of being ostracized, but gradually comes to realize the responsibility she now must own despite the unwanted gift.
Interspersed between the visions of Inez's dilemma, Kate's own sister, Jenna, is in dire circumstances as the victim of domestic violence at the hand of her controlling, possessive husband, Mason. Jenna's abuse becomes Kate's central focus as she attempts to warn her sister and seek assistance from her reluctant parents. It's not that Kate's parents don't have misgiving about their son-in-law, but they can't quite come to terms with the manner of Kate's infused knowledge.
Similarly, Kate's efforts to reach out to her sister are not only rebuffed, but eventually Jenna demands that Kate leave them alone as she is only making matters worse in the volatile marriage. Each attempt she makes to intercede on Jenna's behalf seems to trigger another asthma attack, bringing her more urgent information even at the risk of her own life.
Gil is surprisingly accepting and appreciative of Kate's efforts on behalf of his sister—a first for Kate. He quickly becomes her best ally in their joint effort to help their sisters; he also becomes her protector as Kate begins to subject herself to great personal danger by instigating her own asthma attacks in a misguided effort to save her sister.
We appreciate the author not overplaying the psychic aspect of the storyline. Instead, Rainfield treats Kate's visions as just another quality that makes her different or special in her own way. It's just part of who she is, and the more she comes to acknowledge and accept this part of herself, the less fear and anxiety surround it.
The author has excellent descriptive skills—don't be surprised if you find yourself gasping for air during key scenes. There are a lot of writers who associate themselves with the ever-popular young adult genre merely because they have a young protagonist. However, context and subject matter are essential to a good young adult book experience, and Rainfield makes all the right points in all the right ways with interesting and well- developed teenage characters and good supporting adult characters.
At its core, this book is about acceptance—not despite our differences, but because of our differences which bind us together in meaningful ways. We highly recommend this thoughtful and insightful story for teens and parents alike. It's not easy being a teenager or a parent raising teens, but books like Parallel Visions are great teachers of how better to support and communicate with those we care about and love as we face some of life's greatest challenges both physically and emotionally.
This book was reviewed as part of the Wise Bear Digital Book Awards competition. Entry fees associated with the contest are administrative in nature and do not influence our honest, unbiased book reviews.
Parallel Visions by Cheryl Rainfield is a well written novel built on an important adolescent premise that is easily read in a day despite its sobering subject matter. Teenage Kate suffers from severe asthma which not only causes paralyzing fear, but also results in terrifying psychic visions. Her visions focus on friends and loved ones who are in imminent danger. Kate's instincts immediately propel her to warn, help, and aid those she sees. The problem—Kate doesn't know if the visions are past, present, or future.
Kate is tired of being the "sick kid." The fact that she possesses a form of psychic visions furthers her feelings of isolation, particularly since her family doesn't believe her whenever she's tried to broach the subject.
Things begin to change for Kate when she forces herself to confide in a schoolmate and prospective love interest, Gil. Gil is a firsthand witness to one of Kate's frightening asthma attacks after which he accompanies her to the school nurse. It is during this attack that Kate sees a vision of a teenage girl who is seriously contemplating suicide.
She accurately surmises this mystery girl to be connected to Gil—his sister, Inez, who was gang raped for being openly queer. Kate not only feels compelled to share this information with Gil despite the obvious risk of being ostracized, but gradually comes to realize the responsibility she now must own despite the unwanted gift.
Interspersed between the visions of Inez's dilemma, Kate's own sister, Jenna, is in dire circumstances as the victim of domestic violence at the hand of her controlling, possessive husband, Mason. Jenna's abuse becomes Kate's central focus as she attempts to warn her sister and seek assistance from her reluctant parents. It's not that Kate's parents don't have misgiving about their son-in-law, but they can't quite come to terms with the manner of Kate's infused knowledge.
Similarly, Kate's efforts to reach out to her sister are not only rebuffed, but eventually Jenna demands that Kate leave them alone as she is only making matters worse in the volatile marriage. Each attempt she makes to intercede on Jenna's behalf seems to trigger another asthma attack, bringing her more urgent information even at the risk of her own life.
Gil is surprisingly accepting and appreciative of Kate's efforts on behalf of his sister—a first for Kate. He quickly becomes her best ally in their joint effort to help their sisters; he also becomes her protector as Kate begins to subject herself to great personal danger by instigating her own asthma attacks in a misguided effort to save her sister.
We appreciate the author not overplaying the psychic aspect of the storyline. Instead, Rainfield treats Kate's visions as just another quality that makes her different or special in her own way. It's just part of who she is, and the more she comes to acknowledge and accept this part of herself, the less fear and anxiety surround it.
The author has excellent descriptive skills—don't be surprised if you find yourself gasping for air during key scenes. There are a lot of writers who associate themselves with the ever-popular young adult genre merely because they have a young protagonist. However, context and subject matter are essential to a good young adult book experience, and Rainfield makes all the right points in all the right ways with interesting and well- developed teenage characters and good supporting adult characters.
At its core, this book is about acceptance—not despite our differences, but because of our differences which bind us together in meaningful ways. We highly recommend this thoughtful and insightful story for teens and parents alike. It's not easy being a teenager or a parent raising teens, but books like Parallel Visions are great teachers of how better to support and communicate with those we care about and love as we face some of life's greatest challenges both physically and emotionally.
This book was reviewed as part of the Wise Bear Digital Book Awards competition. Entry fees associated with the contest are administrative in nature and do not influence our honest, unbiased book reviews.
December 23, 2012
Full review and videos at my blog
I have already read Cheryl's book Hunted, so whenÌýsheÌýcontacted me about reviewing her new book, Parallel Visions, I jumped at the chance. ÌýNot only did the synopsis sound interesting, but being an asthmatic myself, I was also curious to read about how an attack brought on visions.
As soon as I began reading I was hooked, watching Kate struggle throughÌýasthmaÌýattacks and having unwanted visions from them was truly interesting, and each vision gives her a glimpse into things that would happen, but struggling to breathe as well as trying to figure out what the visions mean is not easy, and each time she figured it out I cheered for her. ÌýFor me Kate was easy to relate to. ÌýWhileÌýshe suffers worse than what I ever have, I couldÌýrelateÌýto some of her problems, not participating much in sport is one that I canÌýattestÌýto, however mine was more a blessing in disguise as sport isn't really my thing. ÌýI did feel sorry for her being the 'sick girl' and missing out on a lot of school doesn't make high school life any easier than what it is.
Gil was a surprise that I didn't expect, but soon liked him for how he treats Kate and is there for her, wanting to help even if it's a life or death situation. ÌýI admire him for this friendship he offers Kate, and while there is aÌýhiccupÌýover something KateÌýchoosesÌýto do, he doesn't hold a grudge.
Kate is a strong protagonist, while forcing her asthma attacks puts her life in danger, she continues to do so to ensure that her family and friends are safe, and while part of me thinks this is stupid to do so, to put her own life at risk for others, I do admire herÌýstrengthÌýand courage to do this, with no thoughts for herself.
Parallel Visions was a quick read that took about an hour to finish, but had me gripped from the moment I began reading, right up to the last page, with some nail biting moments aboutÌýwhetherÌýKate or another would survive. ÌýIt's the first instalment in what I hope to be a great series, and I can't wait to see what is next.
Throughout Parallel Visions, Kate practisesÌýorigamiÌýin order toÌýrelaxÌýherself, and there were a couple of links at the back of the page to two things she makes. ÌýI have tried a fewÌýorigamiÌýthings already so I can't wait to give these two a try.
I have already read Cheryl's book Hunted, so whenÌýsheÌýcontacted me about reviewing her new book, Parallel Visions, I jumped at the chance. ÌýNot only did the synopsis sound interesting, but being an asthmatic myself, I was also curious to read about how an attack brought on visions.
As soon as I began reading I was hooked, watching Kate struggle throughÌýasthmaÌýattacks and having unwanted visions from them was truly interesting, and each vision gives her a glimpse into things that would happen, but struggling to breathe as well as trying to figure out what the visions mean is not easy, and each time she figured it out I cheered for her. ÌýFor me Kate was easy to relate to. ÌýWhileÌýshe suffers worse than what I ever have, I couldÌýrelateÌýto some of her problems, not participating much in sport is one that I canÌýattestÌýto, however mine was more a blessing in disguise as sport isn't really my thing. ÌýI did feel sorry for her being the 'sick girl' and missing out on a lot of school doesn't make high school life any easier than what it is.
Gil was a surprise that I didn't expect, but soon liked him for how he treats Kate and is there for her, wanting to help even if it's a life or death situation. ÌýI admire him for this friendship he offers Kate, and while there is aÌýhiccupÌýover something KateÌýchoosesÌýto do, he doesn't hold a grudge.
Kate is a strong protagonist, while forcing her asthma attacks puts her life in danger, she continues to do so to ensure that her family and friends are safe, and while part of me thinks this is stupid to do so, to put her own life at risk for others, I do admire herÌýstrengthÌýand courage to do this, with no thoughts for herself.
Parallel Visions was a quick read that took about an hour to finish, but had me gripped from the moment I began reading, right up to the last page, with some nail biting moments aboutÌýwhetherÌýKate or another would survive. ÌýIt's the first instalment in what I hope to be a great series, and I can't wait to see what is next.
Throughout Parallel Visions, Kate practisesÌýorigamiÌýin order toÌýrelaxÌýherself, and there were a couple of links at the back of the page to two things she makes. ÌýI have tried a fewÌýorigamiÌýthings already so I can't wait to give these two a try.
December 23, 2012
Parallel Visions is a wonderful, intense, quick read!
Kate suffers from asthma. That means she always has to be careful fo her surroundings, always avoiding places with too much dust, pollen, smoke, well, pretty much anything with strong smells or fumes that might trigger off an asthma attack. Because of that, Kate also has to avoid strenuous activities. In other words, she misses a lot of school, and running with her classmates during Phys ED is pretty much out of question... not that THAT would stop her from trying to hang out with Gil, the kind-hearted and yummy guy from her school. Having asthma really sucks, especially when you have an attack in front of the guy you like and your class keeps standing there, staring at you while you try to stay alive.
But you know what makes it even worse? Having visions while you're trying to desperately breathe in some oxygen while your airways are closing. Visions of the past and the future. Visions you feel bound to avoid happening, even knowing that no one will believe what you're saying will happen. Kate is very much used to that. However, this time it envolves people very close to her. Her own sister, Jenna, who is being abused and controled by her husband, and denying it; and Gil's sister, a depressed homosexual girl who was gang-raped and is now planning on committing suicide. Kate has a lot on her hands, trying to protect the people she cares about... but who'll protect her from those who want to stop her?
As if high school alone wasn't bad enough.
I was sucked into this story immediately! I never met anyone suffering from asthma, but I certainly herad a lot about it. I can't even imagine how terrible it must be, to be always short of breath, or constantly coughing and depending on medicine. How very helpless it must be. But Kate reminds us that it is not the end of the world. She doesn't let herself be dimished by it, even if her sister blames her for being an 'attention whore', keeing their parents all to herself, and when people would overreact everytime she had an attack, trying to keep her sheltered and protected, but failing to notice that they were, in fact, smothering her. Oh, and I have to say it: it was so unnerving when people wouldn't believe her visions, even with all the believable things she kept pointing out! ARGH!!! I just wanted to shake her parents. LOL.
All in all, this made for a fantastic read! My only problem with it was that it was too short! I really can't wait for the next book, I want to see more of Gil!!! ;)
I would like to thank the author, the lovely Cheryl Rainfield. for giving me the chance to read and review her most recently published book. It was just as incredibly intriguing and intense as Scars. *-*
Kate suffers from asthma. That means she always has to be careful fo her surroundings, always avoiding places with too much dust, pollen, smoke, well, pretty much anything with strong smells or fumes that might trigger off an asthma attack. Because of that, Kate also has to avoid strenuous activities. In other words, she misses a lot of school, and running with her classmates during Phys ED is pretty much out of question... not that THAT would stop her from trying to hang out with Gil, the kind-hearted and yummy guy from her school. Having asthma really sucks, especially when you have an attack in front of the guy you like and your class keeps standing there, staring at you while you try to stay alive.
But you know what makes it even worse? Having visions while you're trying to desperately breathe in some oxygen while your airways are closing. Visions of the past and the future. Visions you feel bound to avoid happening, even knowing that no one will believe what you're saying will happen. Kate is very much used to that. However, this time it envolves people very close to her. Her own sister, Jenna, who is being abused and controled by her husband, and denying it; and Gil's sister, a depressed homosexual girl who was gang-raped and is now planning on committing suicide. Kate has a lot on her hands, trying to protect the people she cares about... but who'll protect her from those who want to stop her?
As if high school alone wasn't bad enough.
I was sucked into this story immediately! I never met anyone suffering from asthma, but I certainly herad a lot about it. I can't even imagine how terrible it must be, to be always short of breath, or constantly coughing and depending on medicine. How very helpless it must be. But Kate reminds us that it is not the end of the world. She doesn't let herself be dimished by it, even if her sister blames her for being an 'attention whore', keeing their parents all to herself, and when people would overreact everytime she had an attack, trying to keep her sheltered and protected, but failing to notice that they were, in fact, smothering her. Oh, and I have to say it: it was so unnerving when people wouldn't believe her visions, even with all the believable things she kept pointing out! ARGH!!! I just wanted to shake her parents. LOL.
All in all, this made for a fantastic read! My only problem with it was that it was too short! I really can't wait for the next book, I want to see more of Gil!!! ;)
I would like to thank the author, the lovely Cheryl Rainfield. for giving me the chance to read and review her most recently published book. It was just as incredibly intriguing and intense as Scars. *-*
January 5, 2013
I see a connection to Cheryl Rainfield's second book, HUNTED. That sci-fi predicts a time when everyone accepts that some people have extra-sensory powers, but unfortunately, these people are hunted (!) and persecuted. This e-book could be a prequel -- setting up a world where people slowly must accept the supernatural powers of others...it's just s short jump from accepting the existence of the powers to the suppression of them. In this short novel (#1? That would be great!!) we meet Kate, a young girl who desperately wants to be normal, whatever that is, but she suffers from life-threatening asthma. BUT when she's having a full-blown asthma attack, often she also has visions of what could happen in the future. Unfortunately, no one believes her.
But Gil does. When she describes his sister, Inez, contemplating suicide, he doesn't hesitate or argue. He believes.
Unfortunately, her family doesn't when she tries to warn them about her sister's husband, Mason...Mason -- charming, controlling, bright. Mason, who, in Kate's visions, brutally beats his wife Jenna. Jenna denies the abuse, but her eyes won't meet Kate's as she professes Mason's innocence.
We, and Kate, learn why Gil believes: his beloved Nana is a psychic. She recognizes Kate's powers, and she offers to help her control them.
For, in triggering the visions, Kate must trigger the dangerous asthma attacks that could kill her.
Suspense drips off the e-pages as we KNOW Mason's evil intent through Kate's eyes. We see how her attempts are marginalized and ignored...will it finally be too late for Jenna? For Kate? For Inez?
Rainfield draws people we know and love...or know and hate. She creates characters we care about, and situations that keep the heart racing.
And in the back of my mind, I keep wondering if she's laying the groundwork to connect these pieces with the world of HUNTED...just my guess. Doesn't matter. This short, stand-alone novel is great!
But Gil does. When she describes his sister, Inez, contemplating suicide, he doesn't hesitate or argue. He believes.
Unfortunately, her family doesn't when she tries to warn them about her sister's husband, Mason...Mason -- charming, controlling, bright. Mason, who, in Kate's visions, brutally beats his wife Jenna. Jenna denies the abuse, but her eyes won't meet Kate's as she professes Mason's innocence.
We, and Kate, learn why Gil believes: his beloved Nana is a psychic. She recognizes Kate's powers, and she offers to help her control them.
For, in triggering the visions, Kate must trigger the dangerous asthma attacks that could kill her.
Suspense drips off the e-pages as we KNOW Mason's evil intent through Kate's eyes. We see how her attempts are marginalized and ignored...will it finally be too late for Jenna? For Kate? For Inez?
Rainfield draws people we know and love...or know and hate. She creates characters we care about, and situations that keep the heart racing.
And in the back of my mind, I keep wondering if she's laying the groundwork to connect these pieces with the world of HUNTED...just my guess. Doesn't matter. This short, stand-alone novel is great!
December 13, 2012
See more of my reviews at
Parallel visions is a great read. It was very short, and only took me around half an hour to read. It adresses a lot of issues, such as abuse, rape, and depression.
Parallel visions is told from the perspective of Kate, who suffers from severe asthma. She gets visions of the futue and the past when she has a bad attack, and after she sees a friend's sister commiting suicide and her own sister being attacked by her own husband, she decides to take action.
In a lot of ways, this book reminded me of Brightest Kind of Darkness by P.T Michelle. Both main characters from each book could see the future, and they both intervened. However, this book was still very unique and fun to read.
Kate was an incredibly brave character. I suffer from asthma too, but thankfully mine isn't nearly as bad as hers. She tries to trigger attacks so she can see more of the future. With asthma severe as Kate's, triggering an attack can easily mean death or a trip to the hospital. She was incredibly kind and cared a lot about others.
Gil, the love interest and the brother of the girl committing suicide showed up a lot. He was very kind and caring, and supported Kate throughout the book. However, I don't think he was developed very well. Sometimes he felt very flat and boring.
Another problem I had with this book is that some parts of it felt rushed. The problems in the book seemed to be solved very quickly. Some of the solutions were glazed over.
I loved the way the issues in the book were dealt with. I gasped in horror when I read about Inez's story, and Kate's abuse was horrifying. These things happen every day around the world.
Parallel visions is a lovely read. I would definitely reccomend it to other readers.
4/5 stars.
A free copy was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Parallel visions is a great read. It was very short, and only took me around half an hour to read. It adresses a lot of issues, such as abuse, rape, and depression.
Parallel visions is told from the perspective of Kate, who suffers from severe asthma. She gets visions of the futue and the past when she has a bad attack, and after she sees a friend's sister commiting suicide and her own sister being attacked by her own husband, she decides to take action.
In a lot of ways, this book reminded me of Brightest Kind of Darkness by P.T Michelle. Both main characters from each book could see the future, and they both intervened. However, this book was still very unique and fun to read.
Kate was an incredibly brave character. I suffer from asthma too, but thankfully mine isn't nearly as bad as hers. She tries to trigger attacks so she can see more of the future. With asthma severe as Kate's, triggering an attack can easily mean death or a trip to the hospital. She was incredibly kind and cared a lot about others.
Gil, the love interest and the brother of the girl committing suicide showed up a lot. He was very kind and caring, and supported Kate throughout the book. However, I don't think he was developed very well. Sometimes he felt very flat and boring.
Another problem I had with this book is that some parts of it felt rushed. The problems in the book seemed to be solved very quickly. Some of the solutions were glazed over.
I loved the way the issues in the book were dealt with. I gasped in horror when I read about Inez's story, and Kate's abuse was horrifying. These things happen every day around the world.
Parallel visions is a lovely read. I would definitely reccomend it to other readers.
4/5 stars.
A free copy was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 28, 2012
Cheryl Rainfield is particularly adept at taking what most people would perceive as a weakness and turning it into a strength. Parallel Visions exemplifies this ability.
What value does this provide in writing? Well, it makes it priceless. It becomes a resource, a refuge, an outlet, an escape for people in desperate need of all of those things. There aren't many writers who actively focus upon providing more than just a story. Cheryl Rainfield is one of the best. As is evident in her writing as well as the online persona she has created for her self, Cheryl Rainfield truly cares about her readers. Truly.
Parallel Visions is an excellent story about a teenage girl who has psychic visions brought on by particularly severe asthma attacks. Life-altering psychic visions about future events. Kate must decide if she will take action to change the future -an intriguing concept to be sure!
One of my favorite techniques employed in Parallel Visions is the way Rainfield drops us right into the middle of Kate's post-psychic discovery life. In fact, we are dropped right in the middle of a major asthma attack and the correlating psychic vision. Many authors would begin the story with Kate's discovery of her psychic powers. Being thrust beyond that part of her life and into harrowing sequence of events where breadcrumbs of her initial discovery are dropped here and there makes the reader curious. Curious enough to want to know how it all began? Absolutely.
Rainfield keeps the cast of characters small -intimate, allowing the reader to easily get inside Kate's mind as well as have a good grasp on what motivates the other key players in the story. If you like being completely immersed in a story, Parallel Visions will do just that.
I look forward to Cheryl Rainfield's next release with bated breath!
What value does this provide in writing? Well, it makes it priceless. It becomes a resource, a refuge, an outlet, an escape for people in desperate need of all of those things. There aren't many writers who actively focus upon providing more than just a story. Cheryl Rainfield is one of the best. As is evident in her writing as well as the online persona she has created for her self, Cheryl Rainfield truly cares about her readers. Truly.
Parallel Visions is an excellent story about a teenage girl who has psychic visions brought on by particularly severe asthma attacks. Life-altering psychic visions about future events. Kate must decide if she will take action to change the future -an intriguing concept to be sure!
One of my favorite techniques employed in Parallel Visions is the way Rainfield drops us right into the middle of Kate's post-psychic discovery life. In fact, we are dropped right in the middle of a major asthma attack and the correlating psychic vision. Many authors would begin the story with Kate's discovery of her psychic powers. Being thrust beyond that part of her life and into harrowing sequence of events where breadcrumbs of her initial discovery are dropped here and there makes the reader curious. Curious enough to want to know how it all began? Absolutely.
Rainfield keeps the cast of characters small -intimate, allowing the reader to easily get inside Kate's mind as well as have a good grasp on what motivates the other key players in the story. If you like being completely immersed in a story, Parallel Visions will do just that.
I look forward to Cheryl Rainfield's next release with bated breath!
November 18, 2012
This is a quick read about Kate, a lifelong asthma sufferer who sees visions whenever an attack strikes. She's able to see the past as well as the future, but her ability doesn't do a lot of good when no one believes that what she sees is real.
She longs to be a normal teen whose family doesn't hover 24/7 and whose not always known as the "sick girl" at school, especially around Gil, the guy she's crushing on. When Kate suffers multiple attacks in one day and sees two different life threatening situations, one involving her sister and the other, someone close to Gil, she'll have to decide if telling him about her ability is worth risking their friendship. Not wanting either person to suffer, Kate figures out how to bring on the visions in an effort to use her "weakness" to help, but each time she does, she poses an even greater risk to her own life.
This was my first book by author Cheryl Rainfield (who graciously provided an e-book copy for review) and I found her writing style to be creative and enjoyable. I liked that Kate was concerned about others and willing to do whatever she could to help them, even if the cost to her was great.
Domestic abuse, bullying, rape and suicide are all relevant issues addressed in this book.
She longs to be a normal teen whose family doesn't hover 24/7 and whose not always known as the "sick girl" at school, especially around Gil, the guy she's crushing on. When Kate suffers multiple attacks in one day and sees two different life threatening situations, one involving her sister and the other, someone close to Gil, she'll have to decide if telling him about her ability is worth risking their friendship. Not wanting either person to suffer, Kate figures out how to bring on the visions in an effort to use her "weakness" to help, but each time she does, she poses an even greater risk to her own life.
This was my first book by author Cheryl Rainfield (who graciously provided an e-book copy for review) and I found her writing style to be creative and enjoyable. I liked that Kate was concerned about others and willing to do whatever she could to help them, even if the cost to her was great.
Domestic abuse, bullying, rape and suicide are all relevant issues addressed in this book.
November 18, 2012
Chronic asthmatic Kate has an added, unusual symptom, when she has an asthma attack. As her vision blurs with lack of oxygen and dots form before her eyes she sees images of things about to happen. No-one believes she can predict the future until she watches a young girl about to take her life and tells the girls brother, Gil, what she has witnessed. The visions become quite frightening as she sees not only her sister die but also her own murder. Can Kate convince those closest to her that they are in danger before it’s too late?……
With Cheryl’s descriptions and knowledge of the feelings during an asthma attack she must either be asthmatic or have done a lot of research. I am asthmatic and though I have not had an attack for many years (touch wood) I was instantly taken back to those scary moments when I struggled to breathe, because the images she painted were so vivid and true.
Book one of ‘The Teen Psychic’ series offers a storyline that is different, and attention-grabbing with a great hook. I haven’t read anything where the protagonist was an asthmatic and forced an attack almost killing herself in order to help other people. It was interesting and I enjoyed it, I’m looking forward to see what Cheryl brings us next.
Copy supplied for review
November 18, 2012
PARALLEL VISIONS By: Cheryl Rainfield
Kate suffers from severe asthma, and her attacks trigger visions. She has to stop what she sees, or live with the consequences of her silence. One day, she has not one but two visions – one involving her sister and the other about the sister of a guy she likes. But Kate is torn about talking. In the past, when she revealed what she has seen, she's been disbelieved or accused of causing the problem. Yet, she can't ignore these visions.
Cheryl Rainfield weaves a modern fantasy story of a teen with the ability to help others who has to overcome her own medical problems. But these problems are also the source of her visions. What is Kate to do?
This story is one of the strongest I've ever read about a teen with a disability working hard to help others. Despite the debilitating asthma, Kate never strays from the path of trying to help others. Rainfield touches on the subjects of domestic abuse, how a disability adversely affects a family, and homophobia in a way teens can relate to. The book is an excellent easy read teens will connect with. I highly recommend Parallel Visions for both adults and teens.
Kate suffers from severe asthma, and her attacks trigger visions. She has to stop what she sees, or live with the consequences of her silence. One day, she has not one but two visions – one involving her sister and the other about the sister of a guy she likes. But Kate is torn about talking. In the past, when she revealed what she has seen, she's been disbelieved or accused of causing the problem. Yet, she can't ignore these visions.
Cheryl Rainfield weaves a modern fantasy story of a teen with the ability to help others who has to overcome her own medical problems. But these problems are also the source of her visions. What is Kate to do?
This story is one of the strongest I've ever read about a teen with a disability working hard to help others. Despite the debilitating asthma, Kate never strays from the path of trying to help others. Rainfield touches on the subjects of domestic abuse, how a disability adversely affects a family, and homophobia in a way teens can relate to. The book is an excellent easy read teens will connect with. I highly recommend Parallel Visions for both adults and teens.
November 28, 2012
Parallel Visions is an exciting, new story written by the talented Cheryl Rainfield. Like her previous novel, Scars, she writes with so much raw emotion and reality. While this story is definitely paranormal, it's very much grounded in the real world where the main character, Kate, undergoes some very difficult conflicts. Along with her familial drama, she has the gift/curse of being able to see visions when she goes through an asthma attack. These visions let her see the past and even the future before it even happens.
I think Parallel Visions is extremely suspenseful and original. It had me completely enthralled from the first chapter to the last one. I won't give out any spoilers, but the plot is extremely intense and action packed. I love Kate as a main character and love that she is so caring and helpful with the ones that she loves.
I definitely recommend Parallel Visions for an intense and passionate read. You definitely won't be disappointed!
*I was lucky enough to receive a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
I think Parallel Visions is extremely suspenseful and original. It had me completely enthralled from the first chapter to the last one. I won't give out any spoilers, but the plot is extremely intense and action packed. I love Kate as a main character and love that she is so caring and helpful with the ones that she loves.
I definitely recommend Parallel Visions for an intense and passionate read. You definitely won't be disappointed!
*I was lucky enough to receive a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
January 20, 2013
Such a great book! I wish it was longer tho!
This book is about a teen named Kate that has really bad asthma and when she gets attacks she gets visions. These vision can happen in the past or the future. I dont want to get into the story because I am not sure what the back of the book says but I'm sure you can check this site for it.
I really loved this book, i read it in two sittings and coul not put it down! I would tell every single person that loves YA to get this book and read it!
I loved the character development, the details and how Cheryl wrote the story so well. The only negative thing I could see was that right when you start the book there was two big visions so it seemed like it was so much to handle but as the story went on it fit perfectly! Everything seemed to lock together like a puzzle and it was so good I couldn't put it down.
I did a full length review on my youtube channel so please check it out -
leave comments or questions below! :)
This book is about a teen named Kate that has really bad asthma and when she gets attacks she gets visions. These vision can happen in the past or the future. I dont want to get into the story because I am not sure what the back of the book says but I'm sure you can check this site for it.
I really loved this book, i read it in two sittings and coul not put it down! I would tell every single person that loves YA to get this book and read it!
I loved the character development, the details and how Cheryl wrote the story so well. The only negative thing I could see was that right when you start the book there was two big visions so it seemed like it was so much to handle but as the story went on it fit perfectly! Everything seemed to lock together like a puzzle and it was so good I couldn't put it down.
I did a full length review on my youtube channel so please check it out -
leave comments or questions below! :)
November 19, 2012
I was so drawn into this book that I’m just sitting here staring at my screen at a loss on where to start with my review. I loved it and I can’t believe I hadn’t heard of it before the author contacted me about possibly reviewing it.
Cheryl Rainfield writes in a way that makes you feel so much for her characters. She also makes you stop and think about what it’s like to experience what the characters are experiencing. You wonder if you would act the same in those situations? Kate is such a great main character and I love that she keeps trying and she continues to fight for herself and others.
Parallel Visions is emotional and suspenseful but at the same time it’s so sweet. It shows that if you find yourself lost in a bad situation it is possible to find your way back. It’s definitely a book I would recommend others read.
To see this review and more check out my blog at
Cheryl Rainfield writes in a way that makes you feel so much for her characters. She also makes you stop and think about what it’s like to experience what the characters are experiencing. You wonder if you would act the same in those situations? Kate is such a great main character and I love that she keeps trying and she continues to fight for herself and others.
Parallel Visions is emotional and suspenseful but at the same time it’s so sweet. It shows that if you find yourself lost in a bad situation it is possible to find your way back. It’s definitely a book I would recommend others read.
To see this review and more check out my blog at
December 12, 2012
Toronto-based young adult writer Cheryl Rainfield’s recently released teen novel Parallel Visions is a simply written, slim book, but it’s hard-hitting nevertheless. Within the first few pages, for example, the issue of teen LGBTQ suicide comes up. The novel not only deals with homophobia, but also sexism, in two of its most explicit forms: sexual assault and intimate partner violence; in fact, it interrogates the intersection of hetero/sexism in its depiction of a secondary lesbian character (bonus points for her also being a woman of colour). Parallel Visions also deals with more commonplace concerns for teens, such as feeling like an outsider. Interestingly, Rainfield combines the gritty, realist setting and situations with a thriller storyline, and adds a supernatural twist...
Read the rest of my review here:
Read the rest of my review here:
December 31, 2013
I am a fan of Rainfeld's work and her honesty.
In this quick read, Rainfield explores social issues and adds a paranormal twist. Her narrator, Kate suffers from severe asthma. But her attacks give her glimpses into others' lives and futures. Those visions lead Kate to try to stop the suicide of a young woman suffering the aftermath of a brutal rape and to try to intervene to save her sister from domestic violence.
Rainsfeld may have tried to do a bit too much here by dealing with so many issues at once (sexual orientation, chronic illness, abuse, rape, sibling rivalry), but I was enaged from start to finish. I wavered between 3 and 4 stars on this one because of this overload. Still, I can imagine some readers with whom Rainfield's work will resonate. That truth through fiction made this 3.5 star book tip to 4 for me. I will have to get this one in paperback for my class library.
Keep writing these stories, Cheryl. There are readers who need them.
In this quick read, Rainfield explores social issues and adds a paranormal twist. Her narrator, Kate suffers from severe asthma. But her attacks give her glimpses into others' lives and futures. Those visions lead Kate to try to stop the suicide of a young woman suffering the aftermath of a brutal rape and to try to intervene to save her sister from domestic violence.
Rainsfeld may have tried to do a bit too much here by dealing with so many issues at once (sexual orientation, chronic illness, abuse, rape, sibling rivalry), but I was enaged from start to finish. I wavered between 3 and 4 stars on this one because of this overload. Still, I can imagine some readers with whom Rainfield's work will resonate. That truth through fiction made this 3.5 star book tip to 4 for me. I will have to get this one in paperback for my class library.
Keep writing these stories, Cheryl. There are readers who need them.
December 14, 2012
Like Rainfield's SCARS and HUNTED, PARALLEL VISIONS is an intense and powerful read. This particular book flew by as if a short story. The writing is fast, driven, and takes no prisoners. Just like with the main character, Kate, and her asthma attacks, the action in PARALLEL VISIONS will leave you breathless.
My personal favorite part of this book is Kate's perseverance through being "different"--set apart not only by her severe asthma, but by her visions. Though she pushes herself too hard at times and puts herself in harm's way, she still keeps relentlessly searching for truth: her own, her friends', her family's. Her story is one not only of having paranormal gifts or human frailties, but of this journey toward what is real and right.
I was asked by the author to review this book honestly.
My personal favorite part of this book is Kate's perseverance through being "different"--set apart not only by her severe asthma, but by her visions. Though she pushes herself too hard at times and puts herself in harm's way, she still keeps relentlessly searching for truth: her own, her friends', her family's. Her story is one not only of having paranormal gifts or human frailties, but of this journey toward what is real and right.
I was asked by the author to review this book honestly.
December 30, 2012
2.25/5
note:
plot was mediocre, narrative voice smooth and all. the book itself was too short in order for me to get attached to any of the characters including the main lead. the love interest was meh, but as mentioned before, i suppose it is due to the book being more a ... novella instead of a full fledged novel. the paranormal aspect was interesting while straddling the fine line between incredulous and interesting. i've read stranger things than that of a teen girl seeing future/past visions through asthma attacks. lisa mcmann's wake trilogy being the exemplary case of paranormal done right (well, except for her last book "gone" which sadly sucked).
kindly provided by netgalley
note:
plot was mediocre, narrative voice smooth and all. the book itself was too short in order for me to get attached to any of the characters including the main lead. the love interest was meh, but as mentioned before, i suppose it is due to the book being more a ... novella instead of a full fledged novel. the paranormal aspect was interesting while straddling the fine line between incredulous and interesting. i've read stranger things than that of a teen girl seeing future/past visions through asthma attacks. lisa mcmann's wake trilogy being the exemplary case of paranormal done right (well, except for her last book "gone" which sadly sucked).
kindly provided by netgalley
November 30, 2012
Cheryl Rainfield (SCARS, HUNTED) is a masterful story teller and her books all "ring true" with the emotion, character development and dialogue that most likely attracts those that designate award-winning books. This is another fine example of story-telling at it's best. There's romance, there's fantasy (but the kind I like - involving ESP) and it's a good story for those of us who like a dose of justice/righting the wrongs of the world when we read. I highly recommend this quick read that will stick with you long after you put it back on your book shelf.
August 14, 2013
I realize the craze is for what is considered "young adult" paranormal fiction right now and it is easy to see many authors just following the fad. This book doesn't do that. The central character has a special power but it comes at a very high personal cost. Like any teen would, Kate struggles with it. The story is very well written for young adults and adults alike. The only bad thing I can say about it is that it is too short. I wish it were a full length novel and am looking forward to more installments in the story.
December 18, 2012
I was privileged to get a chance to read Cheryl Rainfield’s novella, Parallel Visions, while it was still in development. Even then it was a tightly paced, engaging read with a truly sympathetic heroine. I couldn’t believe how much story was packed into this novella: suspense, paranormal elements, a lovely romance, all held together with Cheryl’s incredible ability to create engaging and heartfelt characters. Fans of Cheryl’s novels Scars and Hunted won’t be disappointed with Parallel Visions!
November 30, 2012
Loved the book & read it in one sitting. A fast-paced and gripping read, PARALLEL VISIONS addresses issues like domestic violence with sensitivity and emotional honesty. As with Cheryl's other books, SCARS and HUNTED, I was immediately pulled into the story and immersed in the main character's world from beginning to end. Highly recommended.
August 9, 2018
Sad, inspirational - very good read
I chose this novella because its interesting synopsis. Admittedly, it has been in my wireless device for a good long while (shame on me). Still yet, I read it, and I'm glad I did. I am not sure how I feel about the possibility of people being psychic, but I am also a person of faith, so I guess anything is possible.
I related very well to lead female character Kate - I have felt different, I feel socially awkward. I am glad
I chose this novella because its interesting synopsis. Admittedly, it has been in my wireless device for a good long while (shame on me). Still yet, I read it, and I'm glad I did. I am not sure how I feel about the possibility of people being psychic, but I am also a person of faith, so I guess anything is possible.
I related very well to lead female character Kate - I have felt different, I feel socially awkward. I am glad
June 14, 2020
With this unusual premise, Rainfield's hero, Kate, has psychic visions--but only when she's having an asthma attack. The worse the attack, the clearer the vision, which means Kate may very well discover her sister's future killer by dying herself.
The story is tight and tense, with believable adult and teen characters and a relentless pace. It will be friendly to reluctant readers as well as lovers of serious suspense and heroes who will do almost anything to save someone they love.
The story is tight and tense, with believable adult and teen characters and a relentless pace. It will be friendly to reluctant readers as well as lovers of serious suspense and heroes who will do almost anything to save someone they love.
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