Jackson, main character of Tempest by Julie Cross has a really cool ability. He can jump backwards in time. He may not have the ability to change the past, but at least he can revisit it. Working for day camp with his best friend Adam, a science genius, and his girlfriend Holly, Jackson’s idyllic days are about to come to an end when his girlfriend Holly dies in his arms, murdered by mysterious time traveler agents. Jackson must jump to the past to find a way to save Holly.
Tempest
Tempest is the first in a trilogy by Julie Cross. It is a very intense read. I thought it was nothing like Twilight, so one should ignore that comparison. Tempest is a strong story from a debut author. There are SO MANY excellent elements: characters, science, plotting, romance and COLLEGE!
Jackson feels like a real 19 year old male. He sears. He’s not quite written as a female character but with male parts if you get my drift. Jackson has realistic physical reactions to his girlfriend, Holly. He understands sacrifice. There are legitimate stakes for Jackson. I love that he is ultimately a kind character despite his faults.
The science is another awesome element. Jackson tries to figure out the how and why of his ability with his best friend Adam via math theories and observation. I won’t li, as a bit of a self-professed geek, I LOVED the pages devoted to the science of time travel. I think this element is great if you admire science.
The pacing of Tempest is fast. As I mentioned above, it is intense. As a reader, I kept hoping Jackson would be able to save Holly. I love that Julie Cross dropped clues and foreshadowing for the future books. I was left asking myself just who are the bad guys?
The romance between Jackson and Holly feels real. There is no instant love, rather the romance follows a logical progression. I love that it doesn’t heat up too fast, yet there is still tension. ALSO, the chemistry between the two is sizzling. I found that I understood why the characters were attracted to each other.
Tempest is a promising start to a new Young Adult series. I look forward to more from Julie Cross and already have my theories about book two.
Disclosure: Received for review
Other Reviews of Tempest by Julie Cross:
Killin’ Time Reading
The Fairytale Nerd
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I have a copy of this and am really looking forward to reading it after your review. I think it will be part of my New Year’s Readathon.
Oh this one sounds pretty good. I’ve heard great things about it so I’m thinking I should probably pick it up at some point.
Definitely a fast paced and well developed book, I am so excited to see where things go in the next book! Plus, I totally know our theories are right and will be awesome.
y’know I so did not want to read this book because that cover just does not float my boat – nope, it totally sinks it. and then I read the first chapter and that was it – completely and utterly hooked until the very last page. And it was insanely fast paced/nervewracking but in a way that didn’t jolt me our of my enjoyment – I bloody loved it! also, me, you and allison need to have a chat about theories ladies!! plz and tnx
I’ve been so on the fence about this one. It kind of seems (and looks) like just another YA paranormal, but I keep hearing such good things about it. Now that I know you liked it too, I think I will definitely have to pick it up next month.
Oh My Gosh I LOVE TEMPEST! I love everything about it. What an awesome relationship, huh? I love this book so much.
INTENSE is right! I totally enjoyed it — cool concept!
I love the sound of this! And the idea of the science behind the time travel really interests me. I am totally a geek when books do that to!! I’m surprised people compare this to Twilight, it doesn’t sound anything close to it. Great review!
Andrea
I am relieved to hear that you liked this one so much. I have it for review from NetGalley but haven’t started it. Now I am more excited about reading it!
It is nice to know that Jackson is a written as a realistic guy. Fantastic review 🙂
Love that you pointed out the science elements of the book. I wasn’t aware they took the time to try and explain it all. I like when an author attempts that…it adds depth to the story.
Wow, this sounds different. Kind of like a YA The Time Traveler’s Wife. I don’t usually enjoy reading YA from a male perspective but I’d make an exception for this book, which definitely intrigues me. Great review!
I’ve been anxious for this one for quite a while! I’m hoping to get this one soon, and this review has given me all the more reason. I just love the idea of an awesome male protag narrator and I LOVE TIME-TRAVEL.
– Asher (from Paranormal Indulgence)