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666 Park Avenue #1
666 Park Avenue
What if your mother-in-law turned out to be an evil, cold-blooded witch . . . literally?
Ever since fabulously wealthy Malcolm Doran walked into her life and swept her off her feet, fledgling architect Jane Boyle has been living a fairy tale. When he proposes with a stunning diamond to seal the deal, Jane can't believe her incredible luck and decides to leave her Paris-based job to make a new start with Malcolm in New York.
But when Malcolm introduces Jane to the esteemed Doran clan, one of Manhattan's most feared and revered families, Jane's fairy tale takes a darker turn. Soon everything she thought she knew about the world—and herself—is upended. Now Jane must struggle with newfound magical abilities and the threat of those who will stop at nothing to get them.
Ever since fabulously wealthy Malcolm Doran walked into her life and swept her off her feet, fledgling architect Jane Boyle has been living a fairy tale. When he proposes with a stunning diamond to seal the deal, Jane can't believe her incredible luck and decides to leave her Paris-based job to make a new start with Malcolm in New York.
But when Malcolm introduces Jane to the esteemed Doran clan, one of Manhattan's most feared and revered families, Jane's fairy tale takes a darker turn. Soon everything she thought she knew about the world—and herself—is upended. Now Jane must struggle with newfound magical abilities and the threat of those who will stop at nothing to get them.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
About the author
Gabriella Pierce
8 books128 followersGabriella Pierce is an American living in Paris with her two dogs. 666 Park Avenue is her first novel.
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November 14, 2016
Read This Review & More Like It At Ageless Pages Reviews
Even though we're always told not to judge a book by them, I'm often taken in by striking covers. Sometimes you get a story that matches the beauty of the outside. Sometimes you get 666 Park Avenue.
That's not to say 666 Park Avenue is a bad book, just a stunningly uneven one. The first few chapters share more than a few similarities with a popular romance novel. A charming, handsome billionaire is so taken with a bumbling, ordinary girl that he must make love to her a hundred times a day and propose after knowing her less than a month, all while lavishing her with inappropriately expensive gifts.Ana Jane says yes and promptly quits her fabulous job, that she loves, and leaves her friends and home to move into his mom's house in NYC.
Fortunately, after leaving Paris, the plot does pick up. First, they must go to her grandmother's little town to tell her Jane's leaving. Sadly, she's dead, but fortunately she left Jane a hideous mirror that turns out to be hiding a magic ring and a letter that says, "Yer a wizard,Harry Jane." Jane takes the news rather well, probably because you can only go so many years blowing up electronics when you're angry before you start to suspect something else is going on.
After this tragedy brings them together, they arrive in New York and are immediately thrust into a party for all of Malcolm's extended family. The Doran clan is very old, tracing their lineage back to ancient Egypt on a massive family tree in the parlor, a very strange tree that only tracks women and next to Malcolm's name there is a dead sister and a space that is mysteriously too smooth, like a name was wiped out. Jane finds it very suspicious, but doesn't bother to ask or investigate at all. Which is a shame because it's hiding Lynne, Malcolm's mom, seems welcoming at first, but almost immediately does an about face.
This leads us to the next, largest portion of the book. Lynne v. Jane. For approximately 200 pages, Lynne does something extremely rude, thoughtless, and pushy and Jane takes it. As someone with overbearing women in her life, I was rooting for Jane to tell Lynne off, but it never comes. She doesn't stand up for herself, her relationship, her friends... So when it turns out that Lynne is a bad witch who wants to steal Jane's magic after Jane bears her a granddaughter, it should come as little surprise that Jane doesn't really do anything about that either.
There is only a smidgen of magic in the whole middle of the book. Jane gets angry, things go wrong. Lynne gets angry, people die. Suddenly I can see why Jane wasn't more assertive. Finally, Jane realizes that she needs to fight Lynne and starts learning magic with her new friends and her friend's hot brother. This is where the book hits its stride. The magic system isn't fleshed out at all, (Jane can use telepathy and telekenesis, but Lynne implies there are actually spells and magic words that we never find out about. She can also use force fields, create chains from mid-air, and dampen another witch's magic,) but what we do learn is actually interesting.
Spoilers for the final battle. Well gee wilikers, that actually sounds interesting and action driven! Shame that all takes place in literally the last 10% of the book. 4 short chapters following hundred of pages of arguments about caterers and wedding dresses.
I think it's pretty clear from the above summary, 666 Park Avenue has an identity crisis. Is it a paranormal mystery? A romance? A commentary on celebrity and socialites? Rather than weave these together into a cohesive novel, the author instead comments on each in turn, leaving the reader feeling disjointed. This, and much more, can be chalked up to poor writing. Despite the narrator telling us how different Paris and New York are, what we see of Paris is written the same in terms of culture and energy. Except for two brief sentences, everyone speaks perfect, fluent English. And then there's Malcolm, with his molten-gold voice and warm-champagne scent and just as bland and cardboard as can be. Lynne, (who I imagined as Victoria Greyson for the entire book,) wears peach lipstick that the author feels the need to describe every time she comes on scene. The book is filled with red-and-gold duvets and canary-colored Ralph Lauren skirts and créme-fleurrette crises. It gets to a point where you wonder if the author had a thesaurus or a color wheel.
All of the writing was very readable, making it seem for a younger audience than the relatively graphic sex suggests. I'd say a middle-schooler could easily understand most of the language, though with a masturbation scene that made me blush, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who can't see an R-rated movie.
Overall, I found 666 Park Avenue extremely disappointing. An enjoyable premise was marred by lack-luster writing, poor characterization, and a plot that took too long to get going. There was some to like, mostly in the last quarter, and the end did leave me wanting more. I may pick up the second if I notice it on sale, and I may even check out the new tv show, but it's not a series that I feel a real need to continue.
Even though we're always told not to judge a book by them, I'm often taken in by striking covers. Sometimes you get a story that matches the beauty of the outside. Sometimes you get 666 Park Avenue.
That's not to say 666 Park Avenue is a bad book, just a stunningly uneven one. The first few chapters share more than a few similarities with a popular romance novel. A charming, handsome billionaire is so taken with a bumbling, ordinary girl that he must make love to her a hundred times a day and propose after knowing her less than a month, all while lavishing her with inappropriately expensive gifts.
Fortunately, after leaving Paris, the plot does pick up. First, they must go to her grandmother's little town to tell her Jane's leaving. Sadly, she's dead, but fortunately she left Jane a hideous mirror that turns out to be hiding a magic ring and a letter that says, "Yer a wizard,
After this tragedy brings them together, they arrive in New York and are immediately thrust into a party for all of Malcolm's extended family. The Doran clan is very old, tracing their lineage back to ancient Egypt on a massive family tree in the parlor, a very strange tree that only tracks women and next to Malcolm's name there is a dead sister and a space that is mysteriously too smooth, like a name was wiped out. Jane finds it very suspicious, but doesn't bother to ask or investigate at all. Which is a shame because it's hiding Lynne, Malcolm's mom, seems welcoming at first, but almost immediately does an about face.
This leads us to the next, largest portion of the book. Lynne v. Jane. For approximately 200 pages, Lynne does something extremely rude, thoughtless, and pushy and Jane takes it. As someone with overbearing women in her life, I was rooting for Jane to tell Lynne off, but it never comes. She doesn't stand up for herself, her relationship, her friends... So when it turns out that Lynne is a bad witch who wants to steal Jane's magic after Jane bears her a granddaughter, it should come as little surprise that Jane doesn't really do anything about that either.
There is only a smidgen of magic in the whole middle of the book. Jane gets angry, things go wrong. Lynne gets angry, people die. Suddenly I can see why Jane wasn't more assertive. Finally, Jane realizes that she needs to fight Lynne and starts learning magic with her new friends and her friend's hot brother. This is where the book hits its stride. The magic system isn't fleshed out at all, (Jane can use telepathy and telekenesis, but Lynne implies there are actually spells and magic words that we never find out about. She can also use force fields, create chains from mid-air, and dampen another witch's magic,) but what we do learn is actually interesting.
Spoilers for the final battle. Well gee wilikers, that actually sounds interesting and action driven! Shame that all takes place in literally the last 10% of the book. 4 short chapters following hundred of pages of arguments about caterers and wedding dresses.
I think it's pretty clear from the above summary, 666 Park Avenue has an identity crisis. Is it a paranormal mystery? A romance? A commentary on celebrity and socialites? Rather than weave these together into a cohesive novel, the author instead comments on each in turn, leaving the reader feeling disjointed. This, and much more, can be chalked up to poor writing. Despite the narrator telling us how different Paris and New York are, what we see of Paris is written the same in terms of culture and energy. Except for two brief sentences, everyone speaks perfect, fluent English. And then there's Malcolm, with his molten-gold voice and warm-champagne scent and just as bland and cardboard as can be. Lynne, (who I imagined as Victoria Greyson for the entire book,) wears peach lipstick that the author feels the need to describe every time she comes on scene. The book is filled with red-and-gold duvets and canary-colored Ralph Lauren skirts and créme-fleurrette crises. It gets to a point where you wonder if the author had a thesaurus or a color wheel.
All of the writing was very readable, making it seem for a younger audience than the relatively graphic sex suggests. I'd say a middle-schooler could easily understand most of the language, though with a masturbation scene that made me blush, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who can't see an R-rated movie.
Overall, I found 666 Park Avenue extremely disappointing. An enjoyable premise was marred by lack-luster writing, poor characterization, and a plot that took too long to get going. There was some to like, mostly in the last quarter, and the end did leave me wanting more. I may pick up the second if I notice it on sale, and I may even check out the new tv show, but it's not a series that I feel a real need to continue.
December 13, 2012
Legitimately one of the worst novels I've ever read (no, not this year - EVER). I was lured by its easy availability on Amazon and my miserable bed-ridden illness/dizziness that probably couldn't handle much else.
Allow me to explain just how terrible this is:
Everything about this novel points to the author's unabashed desire to include every popular genre that has made a smidgen of money in the past decade of chick lit.
1) Supernatural (witches! magic!)
2) Priv-lit (upper east side! paparazzi! over-wrought descriptions of clothes!)
3) chick lit (romance! marriage!)
4) sex! (sex! sex!)
And every genre was executed miserably.
(Leaving the issue of terrible writing entirely aside for now) I actually felt affronted by how little the author even bothered to try developing ideas or substance or a voice for any characters. I am even more affronted that she didn't even bother throwing a few pebbles at the gaping plot holes. I am most affronted that this got picked up by a tv studio into a show starring John Locke from lost and Vanessa Williams.
Shockingly, TV writers actually managed to make it better. Not shockingly, the only salvageable thing (seriously) about the whole damn book was its title and a few of the character's names. Most unshockingly, the show has been cancelled one season in.
Yuck.
Allow me to explain just how terrible this is:
Everything about this novel points to the author's unabashed desire to include every popular genre that has made a smidgen of money in the past decade of chick lit.
1) Supernatural (witches! magic!)
2) Priv-lit (upper east side! paparazzi! over-wrought descriptions of clothes!)
3) chick lit (romance! marriage!)
4) sex! (sex! sex!)
And every genre was executed miserably.
(Leaving the issue of terrible writing entirely aside for now) I actually felt affronted by how little the author even bothered to try developing ideas or substance or a voice for any characters. I am even more affronted that she didn't even bother throwing a few pebbles at the gaping plot holes. I am most affronted that this got picked up by a tv studio into a show starring John Locke from lost and Vanessa Williams.
Shockingly, TV writers actually managed to make it better. Not shockingly, the only salvageable thing (seriously) about the whole damn book was its title and a few of the character's names. Most unshockingly, the show has been cancelled one season in.
Yuck.
December 23, 2012
I have heard this book called a lot of complimentary things and people really seem to like it; but if you are a serious fan of any of the genres that this book is dealing with you may have problems with it like I did.
This book is trying to be too many things all at one time. It is trying to be a romance, a speculative fiction book and a chick lit all rolled into one, and it does not work. There is too little of each to make up a satisfying whole.
The so-called heroine is whiny, a tad trusting with near strangers, silly almost to the point of being stupid. Her character was in this day and age, nearly unbelievable.
I had to force myself to finish the book just to find out that the sexual bliss she and Malcolm shared was not natural…or was it?
The plot was thin nearly to the point of invisibility. There was little to no suspense since the reader could always quite clearly see what was up the road – there was never anything to look forward to.
Perhaps this will make a better TV show than a book; maybe the TV writers can take this and fill it out, and make it plausible.
July 7, 2012
I had lunch with some of the editors from Alloy last week (like you do), and one of them gave me this. You know how much I love a free book, and this one has the added advantage of being really really beautifully designed, with a fancy cover and interior design and all that, and given the seriousness of the books I've been reading lately (I'm looking at you, super-self-indulgent Zippermouth and super-intensely-meta Are You My Mother?), I kind of needed just this kind of candy book. It's too hot to read something dense, you know? Pale King is waiting there on my shelf, giving me the stink-eye, but it'll just have to wait a little longer.
So anyway, this was pretty much just what I expected -- easy, fast, superficial, predictable. There were a few gaping plot holes, a few go-to phrases repeated ad nauseum (can we call a moratorium forever on "something flashed deep in his eyes" and , please?), but whatever. The thing about candy books is they're like candy: yummy and exciting and if you read too many of them you'll get a tummy ache, which you will totally deserve. But if you just read one just when you need it, it is undeniably fun and compelling. So nice job all around, Gabriella and Alloy. If I get the sequel for free I will read the shit out of that too.
So anyway, this was pretty much just what I expected -- easy, fast, superficial, predictable. There were a few gaping plot holes, a few go-to phrases repeated ad nauseum (can we call a moratorium forever on "something flashed deep in his eyes" and , please?), but whatever. The thing about candy books is they're like candy: yummy and exciting and if you read too many of them you'll get a tummy ache, which you will totally deserve. But if you just read one just when you need it, it is undeniably fun and compelling. So nice job all around, Gabriella and Alloy. If I get the sequel for free I will read the shit out of that too.
October 12, 2012
Gossip Girl for adults, with a splash of paranormal. I was intrigued by the (much adapted) television show, and although I'm not usually a fan of chick-lit, decided to give this book a try.
Quick synopsis: Jane Boyle is a beautiful blonde 24-year-old architect in Paris. When she meets Malcolm Doran, sparks literally fly and after a whirlwind courtship they become engaged and move to New York City to his family home, 665 Park Avenue (located between 664 and 668). Jane slowly begins to realize that all is not well in her new paradise, especially her prospective mother-in-law Lynne.
The good: author Pierce successfully marries several publishing trends. The series are bestsellers and have been adapted for TV.
The bad: the name-dropping. I don't need to know all the labels Jane wears, thank you. Jane herself is young, immature and none too bright, not to mention far too trusting. (She does finally grow some backbone.) The attraction between Jane and Malcolm is basically a series of sexual encounters (spoiler alert: this is finally explained). The pace is initially a whirlwind of activity as Jane meets and is obsessed by Malcolm, then slows to a well-shod crawl until nearly the end.
Overall, I'd give this 2.5 stars. I much prefer TV-Jane to book-Jane. Will I read the rest of the series? Maybe, but only if I can borrow them from the library.
Quick synopsis: Jane Boyle is a beautiful blonde 24-year-old architect in Paris. When she meets Malcolm Doran, sparks literally fly and after a whirlwind courtship they become engaged and move to New York City to his family home, 665 Park Avenue (located between 664 and 668). Jane slowly begins to realize that all is not well in her new paradise, especially her prospective mother-in-law Lynne.
The good: author Pierce successfully marries several publishing trends. The series are bestsellers and have been adapted for TV.
The bad: the name-dropping. I don't need to know all the labels Jane wears, thank you. Jane herself is young, immature and none too bright, not to mention far too trusting. (She does finally grow some backbone.) The attraction between Jane and Malcolm is basically a series of sexual encounters (spoiler alert: this is finally explained). The pace is initially a whirlwind of activity as Jane meets and is obsessed by Malcolm, then slows to a well-shod crawl until nearly the end.
Overall, I'd give this 2.5 stars. I much prefer TV-Jane to book-Jane. Will I read the rest of the series? Maybe, but only if I can borrow them from the library.
October 24, 2012
Watching the new tv series for the second time, I noticed at the beginning it states 'based on a novel by Gabriella Pierce]. I like the series and love to read so the next time I was in the library I checked out the book. I was very disappointed to find out the series is not anything like the book. Yes, it has the same name as the book and yes, our main character is Jane [but not the same gal] and the owner of the property is a Doran [but not even close to the same character]. I am mystified how the author allowed the show to be changed so completely. The author does live in Paris so perhaps she hasn't seen the show and is happy with the money she makes.
On the positive side, the book was entertaining. A young French girl [Jane] meets a handsome American [Malcolm Doran] in France. After a short courtship he proposes and she accepts. Before leaving Paris she feels duty bound to visit her grandmother who raised her. Upon arriving at the small village she finds her grandmother dead and a letter leaving her 'witchy powers' to Jane. On to America where she moves into 666 Park Ave. [in the show it's 999 and in the book 667] where all the relatives live [in the show it's an apartment building of assorted people]. And her future Mother in law is every girl's nightmare. This is one time having magical powers will certainly pay off! But of course the MIL has even stronger powers [so she's not only a bitch but a witch too!] It's a fairly quick read but just don't expect any similarity to the series.
On the positive side, the book was entertaining. A young French girl [Jane] meets a handsome American [Malcolm Doran] in France. After a short courtship he proposes and she accepts. Before leaving Paris she feels duty bound to visit her grandmother who raised her. Upon arriving at the small village she finds her grandmother dead and a letter leaving her 'witchy powers' to Jane. On to America where she moves into 666 Park Ave. [in the show it's 999 and in the book 667] where all the relatives live [in the show it's an apartment building of assorted people]. And her future Mother in law is every girl's nightmare. This is one time having magical powers will certainly pay off! But of course the MIL has even stronger powers [so she's not only a bitch but a witch too!] It's a fairly quick read but just don't expect any similarity to the series.
May 31, 2016
I started reading this book yesterday, and the writing and the setting are very interesting. I want to see what will happen next. The book reminds me a lot of the movie Hush (1998) starring Gwyneth Paltrow.
A woman falls in love with a man who is handsome rich and so in love with her and than she meets his crazy mom and everything goes nuts after that, add witchcraft to the mix and you've got the book... But I have a bad feeling about Malcolm, he doesn't feel right... I still haven't finished, I'll see what will happen next and edit my review.
OMG!!!! The book was great!!! I loved it!!! Every twist was a surprise! and the ending was open for another book. I wish Jane would end up with Harris!
Now that I finished the book and watched the TV series, I can see the difference. The book is amazing but the TV series was breathtaking! It's more of Rosemary's Baby style. All about the devil, witchcraft, going bad, having a baby, and the new world order. Though amazing in a TV series, wouldn't wish for any of it to happen in real life.
A woman falls in love with a man who is handsome rich and so in love with her and than she meets his crazy mom and everything goes nuts after that, add witchcraft to the mix and you've got the book... But I have a bad feeling about Malcolm, he doesn't feel right... I still haven't finished, I'll see what will happen next and edit my review.
OMG!!!! The book was great!!! I loved it!!! Every twist was a surprise! and the ending was open for another book. I wish Jane would end up with Harris!
Now that I finished the book and watched the TV series, I can see the difference. The book is amazing but the TV series was breathtaking! It's more of Rosemary's Baby style. All about the devil, witchcraft, going bad, having a baby, and the new world order. Though amazing in a TV series, wouldn't wish for any of it to happen in real life.
February 4, 2011
Summary…From GoodReads…
What if your mother-in-law turned out to be an evil, cold-blooded witch . . . literally?
Ever since fabulously wealthy Malcolm Doran walked into her life and swept her off her feet, fledgling architect Jane Boyle has been living a fairy tale. When he proposes with a stunning diamond to seal the deal, Jane can't believe her incredible luck and decides to leave her Paris-based job to make a new start with Malcolm in New York.
But when Malcolm introduces Jane to the esteemed Doran clan, one of Manhattan's most feared and revered families, Jane's fairy tale takes a darker turn. Soon everything she thought she knew about the world—and herself—is upended. Now Jane must struggle with newfound magical abilities and the threat of those who will stop at nothing to get them.
My thoughts…
This book was a fast paced and intense reading experience for me. I can also say it was a bit of a nail biter. It was a totally captivating magical story. It had everything…a Prince Charming who is not who we are led to believe he is, lots of magic, and lots of witches…some evil and some not so evil. Jane falls in love with Malcolm, is swept off of her feet and moves to New York with Malcolm. They live with Malcolm’s parents and Jane has to learn to live with the strangeness of the Doran family. Malcolm’s mother is quite demanding and fierce and Jane struggles to maintain her uniqueness as she is overwhelmed by the mysteries of Malcolm’s strange family. While struggling to find her own way in her new city, Jane discovers that she has witchlike powers of her own. She has always felt different…lights go off and on when she is in a room, computers sizzle and appliances sort of freak out around her but she has been shielded from the truth about herself by an overprotective grandmother. The build up to Jane and Malcolm’s wedding and their plan to break free of his family is extremely delicious. Jane joins a coven of witches and begins to fully develop her powers. This places her in danger and only Jane can save herself. As I said earlier…the last quarter of this book was an extreme nail biter for me. I couldn’t move until I raced through to the ending.
I loved this book. It was fresh and new and different and exciting. I hope to read more from this first time author.
What if your mother-in-law turned out to be an evil, cold-blooded witch . . . literally?
Ever since fabulously wealthy Malcolm Doran walked into her life and swept her off her feet, fledgling architect Jane Boyle has been living a fairy tale. When he proposes with a stunning diamond to seal the deal, Jane can't believe her incredible luck and decides to leave her Paris-based job to make a new start with Malcolm in New York.
But when Malcolm introduces Jane to the esteemed Doran clan, one of Manhattan's most feared and revered families, Jane's fairy tale takes a darker turn. Soon everything she thought she knew about the world—and herself—is upended. Now Jane must struggle with newfound magical abilities and the threat of those who will stop at nothing to get them.
My thoughts…
This book was a fast paced and intense reading experience for me. I can also say it was a bit of a nail biter. It was a totally captivating magical story. It had everything…a Prince Charming who is not who we are led to believe he is, lots of magic, and lots of witches…some evil and some not so evil. Jane falls in love with Malcolm, is swept off of her feet and moves to New York with Malcolm. They live with Malcolm’s parents and Jane has to learn to live with the strangeness of the Doran family. Malcolm’s mother is quite demanding and fierce and Jane struggles to maintain her uniqueness as she is overwhelmed by the mysteries of Malcolm’s strange family. While struggling to find her own way in her new city, Jane discovers that she has witchlike powers of her own. She has always felt different…lights go off and on when she is in a room, computers sizzle and appliances sort of freak out around her but she has been shielded from the truth about herself by an overprotective grandmother. The build up to Jane and Malcolm’s wedding and their plan to break free of his family is extremely delicious. Jane joins a coven of witches and begins to fully develop her powers. This places her in danger and only Jane can save herself. As I said earlier…the last quarter of this book was an extreme nail biter for me. I couldn’t move until I raced through to the ending.
I loved this book. It was fresh and new and different and exciting. I hope to read more from this first time author.
May 18, 2020
2.5 ⭐
August 20, 2011
I went into the book for purely escapist reading - I wasn't expecting any profound themes or intense writing, so I wasn't disappointed when there wasn't any. While I do agree with some of the other reviewers that this book was a bit slow in the beginning and that it does lack a certain depth, I was more easily able to forgive that because I wasn't searching for the next Pulitzer prize winning novel. Rather, I thought that this was a fun little read which kept me interested and entertained. Yes, it was a bit slow to start with, but it did begin to pick up and probably around half to three quarters of the way through really started to draw me in even more. I think that part of that has to do with the heroine's progression thoughout the book. As she begins to understand what is happening around her, and to her, she begins to believe more in herself and becomes a stronger character, which was a nice element. The supporting characters in this book are just that: supporting without much merit on their own. Though they add to the story, they aren't terrbily strong on their own apart from the atrocious Lynne Doran of course. Some characters that I wanted to have further developed were the Montagues and Jane's friend, Dee, but I think that might unfold a bit further in the sequel, which I plan on picking up when it comes to my local library. Yes, I thought that this was a fun read, and a great cover, but it isn't something that I would say I had to own. Borrow a copy it you can or get it from the library to save yourself the expense of a book you likely won't read a second time. It was fun and worth reading, but not necessarily worth buying.
August 7, 2012
Before I was asked if I'd like a copy of 666 Park Avenue for review, I had never heard of the book. Thankfully, I was introduced to this very interesting, contemporary book series and I'm happy to see more people reading it. This book deserves a whole load of popularity - it's fun, it's captivating and it's truly addictive! This is a new, exciting trilogy and is definitely something to keep your eye on!
The first instalment in this trilogy introduces us to Jane Boyle, a young woman living in France who is quickly swept off her feet by a very well-off american man named Malcolm Doran. Unfortunately, not everything is as perfect as it first appears - when visiting her caring grandmother to tell her the news, she discovers her dead, leaving behind only a note and a powerful ring which opens up a world of magic and witchcraft. When Jane and Malcolm arrive in New York City, lots of strange things begin to happen and she realises that she's not the only one who holds supernatural powers. It was very interesting to see how things unfolded in this book and the discoveries were fascinating. I also really enjoyed seeing how Jane adapted to her new-found powers. Though this an easy to read, chick-lit type book, I thought that the magical plot was very impressive.
I really liked Jane - it was easy to relate with her and to sympathise with her. I think that most people will find it easy to put themselves in her shoes whilst reading this book. I did find her to be a little bit of a pushover at times, but thankfully she did stand up for herself at points. I can't really blame her for being a pushover when it came to her mother-in-law to be, Lynne, though as she was really quite terrifying! The Doran family are an extremely complicated bunch, and I can't wait to get to learn even more about them in the next two books. I really loved meeting all of the members of their clan (however awful they were!) and seeing how they interacted with both Jane and each other member of the family. Without giving too much away, I particularly loved reading about the issues of Malcolm and his siblings.
This was different to many other paranormal books that I've read. This book is aimed towards the adult market, rather than young adult but it could be easily be enjoyed by either of these age groups. Though 666 Park Avenue certainly does have a main paranormal element to it, it is also a quite contemporary book and will be enjoyed by those who like chick-lit. I think that this would be an ideal book to give to someone who usually reads realistic fiction but who is willing to give paranormal a try, or vice versa. I think that it's fantastic that there's a book to bridge this gap. I really enjoyed this book and I am very excited to progress onto the second in this trilogy!
The first instalment in this trilogy introduces us to Jane Boyle, a young woman living in France who is quickly swept off her feet by a very well-off american man named Malcolm Doran. Unfortunately, not everything is as perfect as it first appears - when visiting her caring grandmother to tell her the news, she discovers her dead, leaving behind only a note and a powerful ring which opens up a world of magic and witchcraft. When Jane and Malcolm arrive in New York City, lots of strange things begin to happen and she realises that she's not the only one who holds supernatural powers. It was very interesting to see how things unfolded in this book and the discoveries were fascinating. I also really enjoyed seeing how Jane adapted to her new-found powers. Though this an easy to read, chick-lit type book, I thought that the magical plot was very impressive.
I really liked Jane - it was easy to relate with her and to sympathise with her. I think that most people will find it easy to put themselves in her shoes whilst reading this book. I did find her to be a little bit of a pushover at times, but thankfully she did stand up for herself at points. I can't really blame her for being a pushover when it came to her mother-in-law to be, Lynne, though as she was really quite terrifying! The Doran family are an extremely complicated bunch, and I can't wait to get to learn even more about them in the next two books. I really loved meeting all of the members of their clan (however awful they were!) and seeing how they interacted with both Jane and each other member of the family. Without giving too much away, I particularly loved reading about the issues of Malcolm and his siblings.
This was different to many other paranormal books that I've read. This book is aimed towards the adult market, rather than young adult but it could be easily be enjoyed by either of these age groups. Though 666 Park Avenue certainly does have a main paranormal element to it, it is also a quite contemporary book and will be enjoyed by those who like chick-lit. I think that this would be an ideal book to give to someone who usually reads realistic fiction but who is willing to give paranormal a try, or vice versa. I think that it's fantastic that there's a book to bridge this gap. I really enjoyed this book and I am very excited to progress onto the second in this trilogy!
January 6, 2011
If The Devil Wears Prada married Rosemary's Baby and had their way with Cate Tiernan's Sweep series, then I think the resulting offspring would probably come out a little bit like this.
Before I get started with my review, I have to stress that this is more chick lit than urban fantasy. To be honest, this is really more of a new genre- not quite chick lit but not quite urban fantasy or supernatural/horror thriller. It doesn't even really fit into the paranormal romance genre either. As such, there's going to be a few who will probably be a little weirded out by this book. That's OK as long as they don't completely dismiss it because this book is a very easy & interesting read.
The premise of the book (boy meets girl then discovers wicked mother in law) isn't very new, nor is the addition of magic, yet Pierce does a pretty good job of mixing it all into something that's a little new. Jane's a little bit of an average girl in the heroine category, but she's got gumption. Despite being overwhelmed by everything, she refuses to play the victim but doesn't go the "spunky/happy/gritty" route that other heroines tend to be in magic related fiction. Readers will really love the description of magic in this world, but some might get frustrated that we only get to see a brief glimpse of it here.
Some might get a little discouraged that much of the action doesn't really happen until the later part of the book or that there's not a huge amount of chemistry between Jane & her fiancee. Stick with it guys- there's a reason for the chemistry & while Jane does take a while to really get rolling with her magic, it does help make it a little more realistic. (After all, the average person would probably take that long to get started, being so overwhelmed.) When the stuff does start going down, I promise that you'll be hooked.
This is definitely a first novel, but Pierce already has an easy style of writing that will be appealing to many & there's room for more novels in this series (please?), so we're sure to see some top notch writing in the next book in the series. (Pretty please?)
(ARC provided by NetGalley)
Before I get started with my review, I have to stress that this is more chick lit than urban fantasy. To be honest, this is really more of a new genre- not quite chick lit but not quite urban fantasy or supernatural/horror thriller. It doesn't even really fit into the paranormal romance genre either. As such, there's going to be a few who will probably be a little weirded out by this book. That's OK as long as they don't completely dismiss it because this book is a very easy & interesting read.
The premise of the book (boy meets girl then discovers wicked mother in law) isn't very new, nor is the addition of magic, yet Pierce does a pretty good job of mixing it all into something that's a little new. Jane's a little bit of an average girl in the heroine category, but she's got gumption. Despite being overwhelmed by everything, she refuses to play the victim but doesn't go the "spunky/happy/gritty" route that other heroines tend to be in magic related fiction. Readers will really love the description of magic in this world, but some might get frustrated that we only get to see a brief glimpse of it here.
Some might get a little discouraged that much of the action doesn't really happen until the later part of the book or that there's not a huge amount of chemistry between Jane & her fiancee. Stick with it guys- there's a reason for the chemistry & while Jane does take a while to really get rolling with her magic, it does help make it a little more realistic. (After all, the average person would probably take that long to get started, being so overwhelmed.) When the stuff does start going down, I promise that you'll be hooked.
This is definitely a first novel, but Pierce already has an easy style of writing that will be appealing to many & there's room for more novels in this series (please?), so we're sure to see some top notch writing in the next book in the series. (Pretty please?)
(ARC provided by NetGalley)
August 18, 2012
Two stars is generous. This is a dumb book. Don't bother with it. There are so many things beyond the over-done plot that were so poorly written. (There are also some steamy love scenes, so if that bothers you like it does me, then it's yet another reason to ignore this book.)
**Spoilers**
Upon many other irritating quirks of this story, I got so sick and tired of our ignorant heroine, Jane, finding out that she had powers, only to ignore them. She discovered the ability to tap into people's thoughts by making physical contact with them - only to ignore this fact during an emergency or when a puzzling situation was upon her. She slowly starts to learn how to use her magic, but doesn't catch on to her un-magical boyfriend's role in everything?! How could a girl be stupid enough to trust him while she is finding out how evil his family is? He would take month-long excursions out of the country with little to no contact with her, and she would desire and fantisize about him, not questioning his absence, all the while finding out what a playboy he was in New York. Normal women pick up on these things and quickly get cold feet, which made this poorly written book even harder to read. I understand that the author was trying to portray the "love is blind" excuse, but this case was far too extreme.
There were so many ill-written flaws in this book that made it hard for me to get through. Of course, the end sentence is a cliffhanger, so we must wait for book #2 to debut, and I'm pretty sure I won't bother with it.
**Spoilers**
Upon many other irritating quirks of this story, I got so sick and tired of our ignorant heroine, Jane, finding out that she had powers, only to ignore them. She discovered the ability to tap into people's thoughts by making physical contact with them - only to ignore this fact during an emergency or when a puzzling situation was upon her. She slowly starts to learn how to use her magic, but doesn't catch on to her un-magical boyfriend's role in everything?! How could a girl be stupid enough to trust him while she is finding out how evil his family is? He would take month-long excursions out of the country with little to no contact with her, and she would desire and fantisize about him, not questioning his absence, all the while finding out what a playboy he was in New York. Normal women pick up on these things and quickly get cold feet, which made this poorly written book even harder to read. I understand that the author was trying to portray the "love is blind" excuse, but this case was far too extreme.
There were so many ill-written flaws in this book that made it hard for me to get through. Of course, the end sentence is a cliffhanger, so we must wait for book #2 to debut, and I'm pretty sure I won't bother with it.
August 2, 2012
This is a great book for those of you who love witches and magic, but not into the teenage side of young adult books. This book is definitely for adults and I loved it. The evil mother in law is a great character.
The main character in the book is Jane Boyle, she is an intelligent, strong and very clever woman, who works as an architect. Her fiancé Malcolm Doran is rich, handsome and very very successful. The are so in love with each other and their romance is fairy-tale like. Her mother in law to be is Lynne, is a nasty piece of work and the character is so well written you cringe every time you read about her.
Jane can handle Lynne and she practises her powers in order to do this. Her powers were inherited, but it took her time to get them under control and build them up. There are people who want them from her, can she stop them? Jane is a great character so likable but not over the top.
There are lots of twists and turns throughout the book, which will keep you wanting to read more and more. Will Jane get the happy ending her fairytale romance deserves? I for one cannot wait to read book 2.
This book is a wonderful light and easy read, with some great characters and a bit of raunchiness thrown in, what's not to like. A cross between a supernatural and chick lit novel, this will suit a wide range of tastes.
The main character in the book is Jane Boyle, she is an intelligent, strong and very clever woman, who works as an architect. Her fiancé Malcolm Doran is rich, handsome and very very successful. The are so in love with each other and their romance is fairy-tale like. Her mother in law to be is Lynne, is a nasty piece of work and the character is so well written you cringe every time you read about her.
Jane can handle Lynne and she practises her powers in order to do this. Her powers were inherited, but it took her time to get them under control and build them up. There are people who want them from her, can she stop them? Jane is a great character so likable but not over the top.
There are lots of twists and turns throughout the book, which will keep you wanting to read more and more. Will Jane get the happy ending her fairytale romance deserves? I for one cannot wait to read book 2.
This book is a wonderful light and easy read, with some great characters and a bit of raunchiness thrown in, what's not to like. A cross between a supernatural and chick lit novel, this will suit a wide range of tastes.
February 25, 2011
Jane Boyle is an American girl raised by her maternal grandmother in the Alsace region of France. When she is old enough, she leaves her grandmother's overbearing, over protective shadow for the bright lights of Paris and Architecture School.
Jane meets and falls in love with NYC's most eligible bachelor, Malcolm Doran, who proposes after a very short courtship. They leave for the US planning to stay at his parents home while they plan the wedding and find a home of their own.
Unbeknowst to Jane she comes from a long line of witches. The note and ring Jane's grandmother leave her after she dies brings this heritage to Jane's attention...along with a warning that many people were going to be coming for Jane to steal her powers.
The book read really fast. The author's style reminded me of James Patterson...short chapters and not a lot of superfluous descriptions. While I did enjoy the story, I did relate some to Jane but not any of the other characters...they seemed to lack some depth. The storyline did have some predictability, but there were some surprises as well.
Over all it was an enjoyable way to spend the day and the author left room for a sequel...which I would read and probably enjoy.
Jane meets and falls in love with NYC's most eligible bachelor, Malcolm Doran, who proposes after a very short courtship. They leave for the US planning to stay at his parents home while they plan the wedding and find a home of their own.
Unbeknowst to Jane she comes from a long line of witches. The note and ring Jane's grandmother leave her after she dies brings this heritage to Jane's attention...along with a warning that many people were going to be coming for Jane to steal her powers.
The book read really fast. The author's style reminded me of James Patterson...short chapters and not a lot of superfluous descriptions. While I did enjoy the story, I did relate some to Jane but not any of the other characters...they seemed to lack some depth. The storyline did have some predictability, but there were some surprises as well.
Over all it was an enjoyable way to spend the day and the author left room for a sequel...which I would read and probably enjoy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2012
Terminada a leitura, confesso que esperava algo mais elaborado, com mais acção e fenómenos
Jane, a protagonista, não me seduziu muito, às vezes consegue extremamente inteligente, outras vezes completamente obtusa e a relação dela como o noivo (Malcolm) é prova disso, já que é apenas baseada no contacto físico. Malcolm é um completo enigma, só no final é que sabemos de que lado está e mesmo assim ficamos com muitas dúvidas em certos aspectos.
O enredo não é nada de excepcional, no início andamos um pouco às aranhas com tudo, tal como a própria Jane que nos narra os acontecimentos. Os pormenores apenas nos vão nos sendo fornecidos lentamente à medida que ela os vai desvendando, mesmo assim, chegamos ao final com muitas questões em aberto. O início é morno e só praticamente no final é que se dão os grandes desenvolvimentos e se fazem as grandes descobertas, deixando o futuro em aberto para a próxima sequela.
Jane, a protagonista, não me seduziu muito, às vezes consegue extremamente inteligente, outras vezes completamente obtusa e a relação dela como o noivo (Malcolm) é prova disso, já que é apenas baseada no contacto físico. Malcolm é um completo enigma, só no final é que sabemos de que lado está e mesmo assim ficamos com muitas dúvidas em certos aspectos.
O enredo não é nada de excepcional, no início andamos um pouco às aranhas com tudo, tal como a própria Jane que nos narra os acontecimentos. Os pormenores apenas nos vão nos sendo fornecidos lentamente à medida que ela os vai desvendando, mesmo assim, chegamos ao final com muitas questões em aberto. O início é morno e só praticamente no final é que se dão os grandes desenvolvimentos e se fazem as grandes descobertas, deixando o futuro em aberto para a próxima sequela.
August 20, 2021
A very good introduction to a paranormal romance series.
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666 Park Avenue is the first installment in the series of the same title, featuring Jane Boyle, a Parisian young woman who meets the man of her dreams and leaves everything behind to marry and move in with him in New York.
However, down the line she discovers some well-hidden secrets about herself and her family.
A fast-paced and fast-read novel, with lots of plot twists and steamy scenes.
As a side note, this novel was supposedly the inspiration for the 666 Park Avenue TV show, but I don't think it actually has anything to do with that story!
Blog ∙ YouTube ∙ Instagram ∙ Facebook ∙ Twitter
666 Park Avenue is the first installment in the series of the same title, featuring Jane Boyle, a Parisian young woman who meets the man of her dreams and leaves everything behind to marry and move in with him in New York.
However, down the line she discovers some well-hidden secrets about herself and her family.
A fast-paced and fast-read novel, with lots of plot twists and steamy scenes.
As a side note, this novel was supposedly the inspiration for the 666 Park Avenue TV show, but I don't think it actually has anything to do with that story!
October 2, 2015
666 Park Avenue My review :
I found this book quite different from what you can usually find speaking of magic. The plot is not very complex, but this is not a problem because it is easily carried away by this mixture of paranormal romance and chick-lit, providing an easy and enjoyable book to read.
Mon avis :
J’ai trouvé ce livre assez différent de ce qu’on peut habituellement trouver qui parle de magie. L’intrigue n’est pas très complexe mais cela ne pose pas de problème car on se laisse porter facilement par ce mélange de romance paranormale et de chick-lit, ce qui donne un livre facile et agréable à lire.
I found this book quite different from what you can usually find speaking of magic. The plot is not very complex, but this is not a problem because it is easily carried away by this mixture of paranormal romance and chick-lit, providing an easy and enjoyable book to read.
Mon avis :
J’ai trouvé ce livre assez différent de ce qu’on peut habituellement trouver qui parle de magie. L’intrigue n’est pas très complexe mais cela ne pose pas de problème car on se laisse porter facilement par ce mélange de romance paranormale et de chick-lit, ce qui donne un livre facile et agréable à lire.
October 27, 2016
Acho k o mais correcto seriam 2,5⭐️
March 7, 2014
Primeiro livro de Gabriella Pierce, 666 Park Avenue é a morada da alta sociedade bruxuleante. Por trás de mansões, glamour e dinheiro, nada do que parece é, e em pleno século XXI, ideais e heranças medievais trocaram as carruagens por limusinas, caldeirões por cartões de crédito e chapéus pontiagudos por vestidos Versace. As guerras mágicas seculares são agora batalhadas em festas e recepções, onde o estatuto social pode perfeitamente deitar alguém mais fraco para fora do tabuleiro. Mais um romance paranormal, ou não, é uma visão alternativa que a autora nos apresenta da sua própria experiência enquanto americana a viver em Paris. Já com dois livros publicados, a série verá o seu terceiro volume ser publicado no próximo ano.
Apesar de quase ter passado despercebido, recentemente foi adaptado à televisão com várias caras conhecidas, incluindo a fantástica Vanessa Williams, mas que devido à falta de audiências ou às grandes diferenças que apresenta em relação ao livro, ficará por uma primeira e única temporada de treze episódios, estando o fim marcado para Janeiro de 2013.
Este podia ser um herdeiro de O Sexo e a Cidade ou Gossip Girl mas, tal como o título indica, este não é mais um relato sobre as experiências e vivências da alta sociedade, antes sim, um misto de magia e modernidade, mitos e luxos onde o amor pode ser conveniente, o desejo ilusório e as alucinações verdadeiras. Da efervescente Paris à poderosa Nova Iorque, esta vai ser uma viagem de descobertas, desafios e segredos impossíveis, na qual, ao partir para o seu casamento de sonho com o homem da sua vida, Jane Boyle vai perceber que a normalidade não entra na equação do seu sonho americano.
Refrescante, divertido, feminino, são algumas das qualidades que Gabriella conseguiu inserir no seu primeiro trabalho e, apesar de estar longe de ser excelente, 666 Park Avenue, consegue, enquanto livro introdutório de uma série cheia de ideias já usadas, ser altamente viciante e, surpreendentemente, exactamente o que eu precisava. Entre disputas familiares, compras e reuniões sociais, Jane vai ter de abarcar todas as mudanças que, no curto espaço de tempo, ocorreram na sua vida e as consequências que elas trazem consigo podem ser bem mais pesadas do que ela alguma vez pode imaginar. Da alegria extrema à tristeza profunda, do meio que é seu para um mundo desconhecido, Jane vai ter de colocar a sua ingenuidade de lado e fazer tudo por tudo para reconquistar aquilo que sempre considerou um dado adquirido e aprender que uma herança como a que carrega traz coisas boas e muitas coisas más atrás e, ao contrário do que julga, há muito que o seu estado invulgar tem influenciado e perseguido a sua vida.
Quase se podia dizer que Jane tinha uma vida normal, afinal é uma jovem a organizar o seu casamento de sonho com a presença imposta de uma sogra imponente sempre a pressionar e a massacrar, um noivo perfeito e uma nova vida fantástica pela frente mas quando percebe que a sua futura família está longe de ser o que aparenta e que tem demasiados esqueletos no armário, a nossa protagonista percebe que ser bruxa é o menor dos seus problemas e que o dinheiro e estatuto que advém de ser um deles só vai trazer ainda mais drama à sua vida virada do avesso. Entre linhagens escondidas, amigos inesperados e aulas de magia, num cenário moderno e chique, Jane vai passar da normalidade ao impossível e a magia que faz parte de si vai alterar tudo à sua volta.
Numa narrativa divertida, onde a magia se une à riqueza, as personagens são, sem dúvida, um dos componentes mais atractivos deste livro. Desde melhores amigas meio estranhas às tias assustadoras, de amigos engraçados à sogra maquiavélica, passando por patrões histéricos e noivos perfeitos, todas elas são ricas em personalidade, mesmo que contenham alguns elementos dito típicos deste tipo de história, conseguem provocar bons momentos e algumas surpresas. Naquela que parece uma história simples, a autora conseguiu colocar camadas, superficiais mas que juntas, formam um quadro inesperado e que vai causar muitas revelações e choques ao longo da leitura. A junção de elementos paranormais com experiências de alta sociedade resulta bastante bem e, se há isto juntarmos disputas seculares e muitos segredos antigos, com nuances de medievalismo, podem querer que vale a pena ler pois a autora é eficaz em criar algo que entretém, capaz de fazer passar as horas e trazer o riso fácil e até uma curiosidade natural pelo que se segue.
666 Park Avenue não é uma obra-prima mas é um livro que merece ser lido pois traz um rejuvenescimento do género, conseguindo juntar a dose certa de humor com mistério, compras com rituais e modernidade com passado. Algo que vai agradar as fãs de bruxas e de Carrie.
http://girlinchaiselongue.blogspot.pt...
Apesar de quase ter passado despercebido, recentemente foi adaptado à televisão com várias caras conhecidas, incluindo a fantástica Vanessa Williams, mas que devido à falta de audiências ou às grandes diferenças que apresenta em relação ao livro, ficará por uma primeira e única temporada de treze episódios, estando o fim marcado para Janeiro de 2013.
Este podia ser um herdeiro de O Sexo e a Cidade ou Gossip Girl mas, tal como o título indica, este não é mais um relato sobre as experiências e vivências da alta sociedade, antes sim, um misto de magia e modernidade, mitos e luxos onde o amor pode ser conveniente, o desejo ilusório e as alucinações verdadeiras. Da efervescente Paris à poderosa Nova Iorque, esta vai ser uma viagem de descobertas, desafios e segredos impossíveis, na qual, ao partir para o seu casamento de sonho com o homem da sua vida, Jane Boyle vai perceber que a normalidade não entra na equação do seu sonho americano.
Refrescante, divertido, feminino, são algumas das qualidades que Gabriella conseguiu inserir no seu primeiro trabalho e, apesar de estar longe de ser excelente, 666 Park Avenue, consegue, enquanto livro introdutório de uma série cheia de ideias já usadas, ser altamente viciante e, surpreendentemente, exactamente o que eu precisava. Entre disputas familiares, compras e reuniões sociais, Jane vai ter de abarcar todas as mudanças que, no curto espaço de tempo, ocorreram na sua vida e as consequências que elas trazem consigo podem ser bem mais pesadas do que ela alguma vez pode imaginar. Da alegria extrema à tristeza profunda, do meio que é seu para um mundo desconhecido, Jane vai ter de colocar a sua ingenuidade de lado e fazer tudo por tudo para reconquistar aquilo que sempre considerou um dado adquirido e aprender que uma herança como a que carrega traz coisas boas e muitas coisas más atrás e, ao contrário do que julga, há muito que o seu estado invulgar tem influenciado e perseguido a sua vida.
Quase se podia dizer que Jane tinha uma vida normal, afinal é uma jovem a organizar o seu casamento de sonho com a presença imposta de uma sogra imponente sempre a pressionar e a massacrar, um noivo perfeito e uma nova vida fantástica pela frente mas quando percebe que a sua futura família está longe de ser o que aparenta e que tem demasiados esqueletos no armário, a nossa protagonista percebe que ser bruxa é o menor dos seus problemas e que o dinheiro e estatuto que advém de ser um deles só vai trazer ainda mais drama à sua vida virada do avesso. Entre linhagens escondidas, amigos inesperados e aulas de magia, num cenário moderno e chique, Jane vai passar da normalidade ao impossível e a magia que faz parte de si vai alterar tudo à sua volta.
Numa narrativa divertida, onde a magia se une à riqueza, as personagens são, sem dúvida, um dos componentes mais atractivos deste livro. Desde melhores amigas meio estranhas às tias assustadoras, de amigos engraçados à sogra maquiavélica, passando por patrões histéricos e noivos perfeitos, todas elas são ricas em personalidade, mesmo que contenham alguns elementos dito típicos deste tipo de história, conseguem provocar bons momentos e algumas surpresas. Naquela que parece uma história simples, a autora conseguiu colocar camadas, superficiais mas que juntas, formam um quadro inesperado e que vai causar muitas revelações e choques ao longo da leitura. A junção de elementos paranormais com experiências de alta sociedade resulta bastante bem e, se há isto juntarmos disputas seculares e muitos segredos antigos, com nuances de medievalismo, podem querer que vale a pena ler pois a autora é eficaz em criar algo que entretém, capaz de fazer passar as horas e trazer o riso fácil e até uma curiosidade natural pelo que se segue.
666 Park Avenue não é uma obra-prima mas é um livro que merece ser lido pois traz um rejuvenescimento do género, conseguindo juntar a dose certa de humor com mistério, compras com rituais e modernidade com passado. Algo que vai agradar as fãs de bruxas e de Carrie.
http://girlinchaiselongue.blogspot.pt...
December 16, 2012
3.5 estrelas (Quase lhe dava 4, mas hoje não me sinto generosa e este enredo merecia mais mas, ainda assim, diverti-me imenso a ler isto!)
Leve, divertida e encantadora, com todos os perlimpimpins a que uma história sobre bruxas no século XXI deve conter e com um enredo romântico que faria qualquer solteira suspirar, 666 Park Avenue é uma comédia para corações apaixonados actual, com uma boa dose de entretenimento, que satisfará os fãs da série televisiva e cativará, certamente, as leitoras de fantasias amorosas que procurem um bom momento entre páginas.
Sem muita ciência ou complexidade, Jane Boyle é uma jovem arquitecta em início de carreira a quem a sorte e as coisas mais estranhas batem à porta. O seu passado não foi muito feliz mas desde que saiu de casa não se pode queixar. Faz o gosta, na companhia de pessoas com as quais se identifica e, literalmente do nada, encontrou o seu homem de sonho. Ou não será bem assim? O facto é que da marcação do seu casamento de princesa, com o solteiro mais cobiçado de Nova Iorque, a um curto-circuito capaz de deitar abaixo a electricidade de um prédio inteiro é um pulinho e, feliz ou infelizmente, ambas as coisas lhe acontecem. Os problemas com a electricidade são mais recorrentes, é claro!
Agora a sua vida vai definitivamente mudar e, em breve, terá de sair da glamorosa Paris para a o outro continente onde nada é o que realmente parece ser e a verdadeira aventura em que consiste na organização de um casamento nunca foi levada a um extremos tão repleto de peripécias e hilariante.
Aqui está uma história que me deu muito prazer durante a sua leitura. Procurava algo simples, descomplicado, mas que me distraísse da minha rotina e me permitisse folhear páginas sem que desse pela sua passagem, o resultado foi totalmente conseguido. Resumindo, foi uma leitura demasiado curta e, a quando terminada, a vontade de saber qual o próximo de Jane era mais que muita.
As personagens de 666 Park Avenue são familiares pela sua aproximação emocional ao real e os seus problemas são aqueles que, provavelmente, viveríamos se tivéssemos à disposição mais uns dólares/euros no bolso.
Jane é uma mulher que, para lá actual, gosta de ser mimada enquanto aprecia as coisas boas da vida – como a moda, o bem-estar e o sucesso na carreira – vivendo, apaixonadatemente, o seu amor incondicional por Malcolm. No entanto, a banalidade está longe de fazer parte de si e desde muito cedo habitou-se ao invulgar e a constantes acontecimentos desiguais, para os quais não encontra explicação. O seu sentido de humor e beleza são um trunfo que impulsiona a leitura e que, creio, dará muito prazer descobrir aos diversos leitores deste livro.
No que respeita ao seu noivo, este é a imagem perfeita de um jovem rico e de boas famílias, com acesso ilimitado às regalias com as quais podemos sonhar, o que torna a realidade desde casal um pouco transcendente sem que, ainda assim, escapem às dificuldades de qualquer relação.
Por outro lado a família de Malcolm, os Doran, trazem todo o conceito de mistério e maravilhoso a esta trama e, após o seu aparecimento, tornam este livro muito mais interessante. Eles são sombrios, rodeados de enigmas que contrastam com a sua ostentação e cheios de peculiaridades que farão Jane arrepiar-se numa primeira recepção, estranhamente afável. Com o desenvolvimento do enredo os segredos vão se adensando na medida certa, as personagens secundárias singulares vão surgindo e esta leitura ligeira vai se tornando cada vez melhor.
Em relação aos pormenores desenvolvidos, cativou-me a forma como a autora aborda os problemas que a fama acarreta, o método escolhido para introduzir a fantasia, suavemente, ao mesmo tempo que vai transformando o ambiente que rodeia os intervenientes mais sombrio sem que se perca a vida e a luz que caracterizam Jane que, por sua vez, se vai apercebendo lentamente das suas faculdades.
Opinião completa: http://historiasdeelphaba.blogspot.pt...
Leve, divertida e encantadora, com todos os perlimpimpins a que uma história sobre bruxas no século XXI deve conter e com um enredo romântico que faria qualquer solteira suspirar, 666 Park Avenue é uma comédia para corações apaixonados actual, com uma boa dose de entretenimento, que satisfará os fãs da série televisiva e cativará, certamente, as leitoras de fantasias amorosas que procurem um bom momento entre páginas.
Sem muita ciência ou complexidade, Jane Boyle é uma jovem arquitecta em início de carreira a quem a sorte e as coisas mais estranhas batem à porta. O seu passado não foi muito feliz mas desde que saiu de casa não se pode queixar. Faz o gosta, na companhia de pessoas com as quais se identifica e, literalmente do nada, encontrou o seu homem de sonho. Ou não será bem assim? O facto é que da marcação do seu casamento de princesa, com o solteiro mais cobiçado de Nova Iorque, a um curto-circuito capaz de deitar abaixo a electricidade de um prédio inteiro é um pulinho e, feliz ou infelizmente, ambas as coisas lhe acontecem. Os problemas com a electricidade são mais recorrentes, é claro!
Agora a sua vida vai definitivamente mudar e, em breve, terá de sair da glamorosa Paris para a o outro continente onde nada é o que realmente parece ser e a verdadeira aventura em que consiste na organização de um casamento nunca foi levada a um extremos tão repleto de peripécias e hilariante.
Aqui está uma história que me deu muito prazer durante a sua leitura. Procurava algo simples, descomplicado, mas que me distraísse da minha rotina e me permitisse folhear páginas sem que desse pela sua passagem, o resultado foi totalmente conseguido. Resumindo, foi uma leitura demasiado curta e, a quando terminada, a vontade de saber qual o próximo de Jane era mais que muita.
As personagens de 666 Park Avenue são familiares pela sua aproximação emocional ao real e os seus problemas são aqueles que, provavelmente, viveríamos se tivéssemos à disposição mais uns dólares/euros no bolso.
Jane é uma mulher que, para lá actual, gosta de ser mimada enquanto aprecia as coisas boas da vida – como a moda, o bem-estar e o sucesso na carreira – vivendo, apaixonadatemente, o seu amor incondicional por Malcolm. No entanto, a banalidade está longe de fazer parte de si e desde muito cedo habitou-se ao invulgar e a constantes acontecimentos desiguais, para os quais não encontra explicação. O seu sentido de humor e beleza são um trunfo que impulsiona a leitura e que, creio, dará muito prazer descobrir aos diversos leitores deste livro.
No que respeita ao seu noivo, este é a imagem perfeita de um jovem rico e de boas famílias, com acesso ilimitado às regalias com as quais podemos sonhar, o que torna a realidade desde casal um pouco transcendente sem que, ainda assim, escapem às dificuldades de qualquer relação.
Por outro lado a família de Malcolm, os Doran, trazem todo o conceito de mistério e maravilhoso a esta trama e, após o seu aparecimento, tornam este livro muito mais interessante. Eles são sombrios, rodeados de enigmas que contrastam com a sua ostentação e cheios de peculiaridades que farão Jane arrepiar-se numa primeira recepção, estranhamente afável. Com o desenvolvimento do enredo os segredos vão se adensando na medida certa, as personagens secundárias singulares vão surgindo e esta leitura ligeira vai se tornando cada vez melhor.
Em relação aos pormenores desenvolvidos, cativou-me a forma como a autora aborda os problemas que a fama acarreta, o método escolhido para introduzir a fantasia, suavemente, ao mesmo tempo que vai transformando o ambiente que rodeia os intervenientes mais sombrio sem que se perca a vida e a luz que caracterizam Jane que, por sua vez, se vai apercebendo lentamente das suas faculdades.
Opinião completa: http://historiasdeelphaba.blogspot.pt...
July 8, 2015
I had high hopes for this one - some classic sweep you off your feet mixed in with a Wicked Mother-in-Law and witchcraft - could have the makings of a good fairytale. Unfortunately, that did not pan out and I struggled with this book.
Typically I don't have a problem suspending belief enough to get engulfed by a story with undercurrents of romance and mystery - especially if it has paranormal components. However, from the beginning I had a hard time connecting to the main character and an even harder time connecting to her love story with Malcolm. The electricity that apparently was so hot between them that they could never make it to a real dinner date because they couldn't keep their hands off each other, didn't jump of the pages and hit me with the heat and chemistry I would expect from a whirl-win courtship. To make matters worse as soon as she moved to New York that fizzled between them completely, leaving me to wonder what was between them in the first place as it really appeared to only be the physical. Malcolm - even in the end - professes that he loves Jane, but honestly, it never seemed genuine to me.
Their relationship was rushed with no real meat behind it - just like most of characters. When they got engaged and Jane decides (a little too easily) to drop her life and everything she has ever know to start from scratch in a foreign country by page 17 - I just couldn't embrace it. She comes off as almost spoiled and money hungry at first - though as the book progresses that does not turn out to be the case. However, it left a bitter taste in my mouth that I just couldn't shake. So when she starts to doubt Malcolm's love and her situation it had me rolling my eyes a bit wondering how someone who supposedly is an intelligent and strong woman could be so stupid and naive.
I do like the different take on witchcraft that the author presented. The history and lore that is presented is easy to follow and well explained. She added just enough twist for it to be fresh but still "recognizable". Her use of imagery and description is fantastic.
The ending is such that it leaves room for this to have a sequel or be turned into a series. If that is the case I hope that going forward the characters can have a bit more depth to them.
Overall I am glad that I read the book - it was just a little hard for me to get excited about it and struggled to finish it.
Typically I don't have a problem suspending belief enough to get engulfed by a story with undercurrents of romance and mystery - especially if it has paranormal components. However, from the beginning I had a hard time connecting to the main character and an even harder time connecting to her love story with Malcolm. The electricity that apparently was so hot between them that they could never make it to a real dinner date because they couldn't keep their hands off each other, didn't jump of the pages and hit me with the heat and chemistry I would expect from a whirl-win courtship. To make matters worse as soon as she moved to New York that fizzled between them completely, leaving me to wonder what was between them in the first place as it really appeared to only be the physical. Malcolm - even in the end - professes that he loves Jane, but honestly, it never seemed genuine to me.
Their relationship was rushed with no real meat behind it - just like most of characters. When they got engaged and Jane decides (a little too easily) to drop her life and everything she has ever know to start from scratch in a foreign country by page 17 - I just couldn't embrace it. She comes off as almost spoiled and money hungry at first - though as the book progresses that does not turn out to be the case. However, it left a bitter taste in my mouth that I just couldn't shake. So when she starts to doubt Malcolm's love and her situation it had me rolling my eyes a bit wondering how someone who supposedly is an intelligent and strong woman could be so stupid and naive.
I do like the different take on witchcraft that the author presented. The history and lore that is presented is easy to follow and well explained. She added just enough twist for it to be fresh but still "recognizable". Her use of imagery and description is fantastic.
The ending is such that it leaves room for this to have a sequel or be turned into a series. If that is the case I hope that going forward the characters can have a bit more depth to them.
Overall I am glad that I read the book - it was just a little hard for me to get excited about it and struggled to finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2016
I loved this TV show and was sad it didn't make it to a second season. I knew it was based on this book, so I thought I would be able to read this series and find out what would have happened to the characters in the show. Both feature a main character named Jane and take place in New York. That is literally where the similarities end. I don't think I've ever come across a TV or movie adaptation of the book that completely changes the story. So this was actually an entirely new story for me, and I quite enjoyed it.
Jane made such bad choices, and I blame the magic. It's like a drug, and it causes people to do crazy things like agree to marry someone after a few weeks of knowing them and leave a job, friends and family behind to move to the other side of the world.
Jane then meets future mother in law from hell, which should have been enough to send her running back to Paris. She kept letting everyone push her around and was putting up with a lot of shit from her increasingly absent fiance. I just wanted to shake some sense into her so she would get the hell out before it was too late.
Jane eventually grows some backbone and starts to turn into a badass. I'm eager to see where she goes with that in the next book. I was also so happy with her decision at the end. She finally chose herself, and I think most books would have gone the other way. Love conquers all, and such. Bravo.
Jane made such bad choices, and I blame the magic. It's like a drug, and it causes people to do crazy things like agree to marry someone after a few weeks of knowing them and leave a job, friends and family behind to move to the other side of the world.
Jane then meets future mother in law from hell, which should have been enough to send her running back to Paris. She kept letting everyone push her around and was putting up with a lot of shit from her increasingly absent fiance. I just wanted to shake some sense into her so she would get the hell out before it was too late.
Jane eventually grows some backbone and starts to turn into a badass. I'm eager to see where she goes with that in the next book. I was also so happy with her decision at the end. She finally chose herself, and I think most books would have gone the other way. Love conquers all, and such. Bravo.
March 23, 2011
About half way through reading this story, I notice how extremely stressed out 666 Park Avenue was making me feel, as Jayne's engagement to a rich and handsome American goes from fairytale to nightmare - wedding planning with a Mother-in-law-to-be from hell and absent groom-to-be ....ACK! But once our bride-to-be heroine who has left her life and career in France behind to pursue her happily ever after with her prince in New York, finally discovers the truth behind her situation - and starts to act to manage the situation, instead of just being victimized by it - I actually ended up really liking the book.
I thought that author Pierce did a really good job with her cast. I really liked Jayne's allies on her quest to learn about the witch powers and heritage that had been hidden from her: Maeve, her brother and Dee are all quite likable, as is Jayne herself. I also liked that, with the exception of the Wicked Witch of the East and her henchman Juri, the author managed some sympathy for another character who ends up being neither white or black. Probably my only nit in the character department is that while I did like Jayne and how well she adapted to New York after living in Paris, fairly quickly she stopped feeling French to me at all (or at least someone who had been living in France since childhood.)
But above all, I was happy that Jayne, actually had to work at developing her powers instead of being instantly competant. This is so refreshing in a series starter and it means that there is promise for the next book - since there is no guarantee that Jayne will win her first battle here and the war has just begun. I was lucky enough to get a free ARC of this book through the Amazon Vine but I will definitely be purchasing the sequel Dark Glamour (aug 2012).
I thought that author Pierce did a really good job with her cast. I really liked Jayne's allies on her quest to learn about the witch powers and heritage that had been hidden from her: Maeve, her brother and Dee are all quite likable, as is Jayne herself. I also liked that, with the exception of the Wicked Witch of the East and her henchman Juri, the author managed some sympathy for another character who ends up being neither white or black. Probably my only nit in the character department is that while I did like Jayne and how well she adapted to New York after living in Paris, fairly quickly she stopped feeling French to me at all (or at least someone who had been living in France since childhood.)
But above all, I was happy that Jayne, actually had to work at developing her powers instead of being instantly competant. This is so refreshing in a series starter and it means that there is promise for the next book - since there is no guarantee that Jayne will win her first battle here and the war has just begun. I was lucky enough to get a free ARC of this book through the Amazon Vine but I will definitely be purchasing the sequel Dark Glamour (aug 2012).
July 18, 2013
I admit it, I like the show. I was excited when it came back on after reportedly being cancelled. I like the new shows so much I decided to read the book because the book is always better, right? Right? Damn. Not so much this time. In fact, I don't even know how the book inspired the show as the only thing they have in common is the address. Actually not even that because there is no 666 Park Ave. The city decided to skip that number so it goes 664, 665, 668 Park Ave. Someone described Pierces books by calling them "Gossip Girl" meets Gothic horror or something along those lines. Wrong again. The "Gossip Girl" books are better.
This is the fist book of a series. And, yes, I will read the next one because I am a sucker for finding out what happens next. So far we only have witches but I have high hopes for other magical beings showing up; however, if the author is smart she will buck the trend and stick with one species of magical being. Apparently there are no male witches as the magic expresses itself only in the females, but the males carry the magic gene. Oh, genetics and magic. Not as interesting as it sounds. So far I can't quite make out why anyone particularly wants to be a witch or have magic since the only thing it seems to be used for in the first book is to blow up light bulb and a teen bit of mind reading. Well, the evil witch did make some poor girl walk into traffic. I suppose that's something. Mostly this was a romance. Girl meets boy, they fall in love, she finds out she's a witch, turns out he knew, boy actually does fall in love for real, girl dumps boy. Throw in an evil witch of a mother-in-law and you have "666 Park Avenue."
This is the fist book of a series. And, yes, I will read the next one because I am a sucker for finding out what happens next. So far we only have witches but I have high hopes for other magical beings showing up; however, if the author is smart she will buck the trend and stick with one species of magical being. Apparently there are no male witches as the magic expresses itself only in the females, but the males carry the magic gene. Oh, genetics and magic. Not as interesting as it sounds. So far I can't quite make out why anyone particularly wants to be a witch or have magic since the only thing it seems to be used for in the first book is to blow up light bulb and a teen bit of mind reading. Well, the evil witch did make some poor girl walk into traffic. I suppose that's something. Mostly this was a romance. Girl meets boy, they fall in love, she finds out she's a witch, turns out he knew, boy actually does fall in love for real, girl dumps boy. Throw in an evil witch of a mother-in-law and you have "666 Park Avenue."
June 6, 2012
666 Park Avenue showed a lot of promise: New York; Witches; Magic; Intrigue; Romance and 'an evil, cold-blooded witch' for a mother-in-law!
This is exactly the sort of book I would have loved as a teenager! However, as an adult, even though I know that my 12 year old niece would love the book but I personally thought the sex scenes were a little too descriptive for me to be able to pass it on to her. So maybe one for older teens upwards? I actually felt the book didn't need those scenes to be in as much detail - the vague suggestion of passion along with the knowledge of being unignorably drawn to someone would, in my opinion, have sufficed.
Anyway, aside from the one little niggle, I found the book to be really entertaining. A light hearted but engaging read. I love books with a smidge of the paranormal in them and it's been ages since I read a book about witches so I really enjoyed it.
I loved the New York references and the way the different personalities played off each other.
I thought the evil mother-in-law was brilliant!
Overall a light and easy read that I would recommend but be careful about giving it to early teens as it's probably a bit too raunchy in places.
This is exactly the sort of book I would have loved as a teenager! However, as an adult, even though I know that my 12 year old niece would love the book but I personally thought the sex scenes were a little too descriptive for me to be able to pass it on to her. So maybe one for older teens upwards? I actually felt the book didn't need those scenes to be in as much detail - the vague suggestion of passion along with the knowledge of being unignorably drawn to someone would, in my opinion, have sufficed.
Anyway, aside from the one little niggle, I found the book to be really entertaining. A light hearted but engaging read. I love books with a smidge of the paranormal in them and it's been ages since I read a book about witches so I really enjoyed it.
I loved the New York references and the way the different personalities played off each other.
I thought the evil mother-in-law was brilliant!
Overall a light and easy read that I would recommend but be careful about giving it to early teens as it's probably a bit too raunchy in places.
January 31, 2011
When Jane met Malcolm, she was swept off her feet. They become engaged quickly and she agrees to leave her home in Paris and move to New York, where he's from. And that's where things fall apart. Her future mother-in-law is evil. Literally evil. But turns out Jane's not exactly defenseless herself...
This has been described as Gossip Girl meets Charmed (because it's paranormal but also about NYC's upper echelons) but really, it reminded me of Rosemary's Baby. There's no demonic child of dubious parentage, but just in terms of the paranoia and creepiness in the book. Because that's the thing---for most of the book, you're not sure if Jane's being oversensitive or just how pervasive her mother-in-law-to-be Lynne's influence really is.
This is a really fun novel, one that sucked me in immediately and kept me turning pages as quickly as I could. I loved Jane and spent the entire book hoping that things would somehow work out for her.
I'm hoping that this is the first in a series because otherwise, that cliffhanger is not fair.
This has been described as Gossip Girl meets Charmed (because it's paranormal but also about NYC's upper echelons) but really, it reminded me of Rosemary's Baby. There's no demonic child of dubious parentage, but just in terms of the paranoia and creepiness in the book. Because that's the thing---for most of the book, you're not sure if Jane's being oversensitive or just how pervasive her mother-in-law-to-be Lynne's influence really is.
This is a really fun novel, one that sucked me in immediately and kept me turning pages as quickly as I could. I loved Jane and spent the entire book hoping that things would somehow work out for her.
I'm hoping that this is the first in a series because otherwise, that cliffhanger is not fair.
January 12, 2022
Okay so. First off I’m so glad A to Z Readathon 22 is prompting me to read some backlist books because this has been on my shelf for YEARS. I bought it when the show was airing but then the show was cancelled and I just never got around to the book?
Well I don’t remember much about the show but I do know it’s vERY DIFFERENT than this book. The show was a creepy old apartment building with lots of unsettling tenants. And this book was witches in Manhattan (mostly in one family). I think the character names and title were the only similarities??
So. Not what I expected going into this but I really did enjoy it! This was very much Chick Lit/supernatural fantasy and it was a quick, easy read. Plus the ending did not have to go that hard but I’m really glad it did! Overall, I really enjoyed this one!
And this is the first book of a trilogy so I’ll be on the lookout for the next two books! This was a fun little romp and I’m definitely interesting in continuing the series!
Well I don’t remember much about the show but I do know it’s vERY DIFFERENT than this book. The show was a creepy old apartment building with lots of unsettling tenants. And this book was witches in Manhattan (mostly in one family). I think the character names and title were the only similarities??
So. Not what I expected going into this but I really did enjoy it! This was very much Chick Lit/supernatural fantasy and it was a quick, easy read. Plus the ending did not have to go that hard but I’m really glad it did! Overall, I really enjoyed this one!
And this is the first book of a trilogy so I’ll be on the lookout for the next two books! This was a fun little romp and I’m definitely interesting in continuing the series!
November 17, 2022
DNF. Probably wouldn't have been bad if I was a teenager, I can definitely see myself having enjoyed something about it. Unfortunately I don't share the same sensibilities as I did then and the very basic storytelling and supernatural elements was just wearying
February 14, 2021
I bought this many years ago during a book buying spree and then it remained on my bookshelf for as many years. I should’ve left it there. Or given it away. But oof. What an awful read.
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