Review: Lots of Potential, but Annoying Main Character...
Rating: 2 out of 5
Date: 07 26, 2012
Disclaimer: The fact that I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review has not affected my rating. This review expresses my honest opinion.Honestly, I have to say this book definitely wasn't for me. Judging from the synopsis, Poison Oak Summer seemed like a short, fun mystery read that I would enjoy. Unfortunately, it was not so...The main problem for me was the main character, Lucy. She seemed like such a weak and helpless character, and from someone who prefers characters to be somewhat strong or independent in a way, Lucy just seemed annoying. Don't get me wrong - I don't want characters to be perfect princesses - in fact, Ilove seeing weaker characters develop into stronger ones - it's just that Lucy showed almost no growth and was pretty annoying throughout the story.Another thing that bothered me was <spoiler>Lucy's relationship with Hilton. As a reader looking for realistic fiction, I actually applauded the author at the time for making Lucy's situation realistic, when someone who seemed like her only true friend wanted to rape her, however twisted that sounds. It made me feel for Lucy's situation even more!</spoiler> However, I want to make it clear that when someone tries to rape you, you don't become their friend afterwards.No, it doesn't matter how nice they are to you afterwards. No, it doesn't matter that the guy that tried to rape you happens to be gorgeous. No, it doesn't matter that he may be your only friend. What matters is that he tried to rape you, so get away from him.The last thing that bothered me was that it was in general, too short! When the plot actually turned to mystery, it ends in a cliffhanger! Not much climax, no final battle - this book seemed kind of incomplete :/ I get that it's "part one", but it still bothered me. Maybe i'd the book was longer, Lucy could also develop into a netter character (she was showing a little promise at the end in the cabin and in town), and the mystery I was looking for could continue.Overall, Poison Oak Summer: Part One seems like more of an incomplete novel  - not much character development or mystery / plot building :/ Unless you have the second part on hand (it might get better I suppose...) I would suggest that you skip on this book...