Review: Training Wheels
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 21, 2011
As I understand it: This book is one of the first if not "the first" published work for Indie author Penelope Fletcher. Keeping this in the forefront while writing this review, I think she did good work.My Review:The story moved along at a decent pace. The main character was fantastic. We learn a great deal about Rea during the full length of the book. It's a discovery not just for the reader but also a discovery for and of Rea herself. Her decisions shape who she is throughout the book, she continuously develops. I especially like this. After all this is how we develop in reality. The decisions, choices,actions, and responses we make daily are what makes us who we are. Sometimes we think we know what we would do given a situation yet ounce the choice is ours in reality our decision may differ. I really enjoyed the telling of this story.Let's talk about PF's main characters and the set up:The main character is Rea. I can really envision Rea. Rea comes across as a morning person. Takes daily runs and enjoys the opportunity for some alone time, She'd always felt the odd one. Rea was unawares of her family history and had nothing but a coin on a cord left of her life pre cleric. She's had no romantic dealings in her past and has one BFF Alex. Alex and Rea are the best of friends and probably the only person near and dear to Rea's heart. In Rea's world higher education means becoming a cleric. Learning of demons such as witches, fairies, vampires, shape shifters, how to protect herself and home from these enemies, etc. Rea's adventure is two days length. Two rather LONG days, this did not warrant a fuss imho.  During this adventure she meets several demons. Learns of her family past and gets her fortune told by a teenager. The future holds hardship for Rea personally. Many extreme circumstances, important decisions, and a harsh reality comes into view. Her importance and law she is not familiar with are to dictate her behavior. This idea alone is unrealistic in of itself. How can one be expected to immediately bend themselves to a "law" one just discovered? Utter, ridiculousness. Although I am of the mind this was the authors intent. In any case I am sure we have all heard the saying history repeats itself. I believe this to be the case for Rea, her beaus, and to some extent her spices.Speaking of Rea's beaus....We have two Rea has bonded with. Oh and just to keep things interesting these men are demons. Beau #1 we run into (inside joke) is while lost amongst the woods is a lovely looking fairy. He talks in riddles, takes procession of her, (you belong to me) and promptly returns Rea to her original destination. But not before he warns her of the danger awaiting outside her secluded and "protected" school grounds. Gives her orders to stay put 'till he returns to gather her up. Beau #1 came across as pushy but intriguing. Rea felt confused by the encounter.Beau #2 is a vampire whom beau #1 has warned Rea of. Beau #2 is not as easy on the eyes as Beau #1. Beau #2 is obsessed with talking to her. Seems he has important news to share. News imperative they discuss. By the time we meet said vampire the sun is about to make an appearance. This results in Rea hiding Beau #2 in her wardrobe and promising to return after her classes. I loved that part! Beau #2 came across as a mystery man and set off "bells" in my head.Rea seems the popular girl but normally this is not the case. As she continues with her day, she shows up rather unnerved to early morning class. During class one we meet her best friend Alex. Alex is a simple character really. Her demeanor reminded me of the majority in her age group.We also meet the bad guy during day one of two. I am not going to say much about him. I do not want to spoil the surprises ahead should you decide to give this book a go.Room for improvement: I will say Penelope Fletcher was in need of experience editorial work. As noted by a previous reviewer PF's "Demon Girl" had several grammar and misspelling issues. The fight scenes in particular warranted some confusion.  I'd find myself a little bewildered and have to carefully read it a second time. This is something the author needs to work on should she want to continue building her fan base. When I read a book I want to be transported to the main character's world. I cannot do that if I am making a concentrated effort to read carefully.Overall feeling: This is a free installment and freshmen work. I will be on the look out for the following installment (2) and decide at that time if I am fond of her "Rea Wilder" series. A lot is dependent on Penelope Fletcher producing a clean and professional piece of ebook literature. At this point I will remind myself she is still in training wheels.*A note the author: Ms. Penelope Fletcher if this really is a career choice and not a hobby, I'd suggest practice and a fanatical eye. Remember one can be born with a lovely voice yet never become a successful singing artist. It takes forethought, dedication and a brilliant team. Please invest in your work. I can tell you have talent. I do love the world you have built and can truly see glimpses of Rea Wilder that intrigue me. Ms. Fletcher I'd like to become a loyal fan. *I recommend this e book. It is a quick and engaging story. Great for reading while in the waiting room for your Doc.  Being I feel generous I give this book a 3.5.I wish Ms. Penelope Fletcher much success in the future.Question: Any one know when the second installment is scheduled to be released??