REVIEWS
Librarian Reviews
"Hidden City is an exciting, fast-paced story of a teenage girl dealing with significant life-changing events. A move to Richmond, Virginia introduces some quirky characters and a secret, dangerous world of vampires, monsters and mystery. I’m excited to learn more about Stacy’s new friends, pick up new chess moves and discover more about this hidden world in book 2." ~ Ashley Welch, Middle School Librarian
Teacher Reviews
"As a high school English teacher, I am always on the lookout for YA fiction to recommend to my reluctant readers. The Unimaginables has so many elements students can appreciate: relatable characters, scary monsters (both human and not-so-much), intense battles, sharp dialog, and most importantly, a story that leaves the reader wanting more. Plus, who can resist a GREAT opening line?
As an adult, I appreciate the references to things I loved in my youth. Also, I even laughed out loud a few times!
Read this book. " ~ Robyn D., English Teacher
"I work with high school students and was happy to have something to recommend to them that is contemporary, as well as available as an audio book, since many of my students prefer that option. I am looking forward to Furlong's next book in the series." ~ Dawn D., High School College Counselor
"This book is an engaging, face paced, fun read. With captivating characters involved in a suspenseful plot, you will not want to put this book down. As a parent and high school teacher, I recommend this book for young and older adults alike. Everyone in the family will want to know what is coming for Stacy, Finder and Tully as they travel through Richmond, Virginia on an unimaginable adventure." ~ B.H. , High School Teacher
"I thoroughly enjoyed J.S. Furlong’s new book “Hidden City The Unimaginables: Book 1”. It is a page turner and each chapter stays with the reader. The reader (or audio listener) wants to know more about these characters. We intently follow each character’s journey. We especially want to know more about the journey of the main female protagonist, Stacy Goldman. The book is full of action, intriguing characters and realistic dialogue. We are ready to go on the narrative journey with Furlong’s writing.
You don’t need to be a teenager, nor a vampire paranormal fan, nor a New Yorker, nor a Southerner to want to dive into this book. Although, I can imagine for a teenager into vampire stories that this would thrill.
It says much about the excellent writing and action packed novel that it carried me forward, wanting to know what happens next. Even though vampires and the paranormal are immensely popular themes in books and films, I somehow never got immersed in that world. But, I did want to find out more in Furlong’s book.
What I appreciate the most about this book is that the dialogue is so strong and the character voices are so fleshed out, (no pun intended), that we can imagine each character. We go on the ride with the characters.
I also appreciate that the author found authentic voices in these teenage protagonists. I’m personally reassured that Stacy uses a mezuzah, a holy Jewish symbol, rather than a Christian cross, against the vampires. I didn’t know if Stacy’s Jewish character would remain her true authentic self. She does!
I commend Furlong’s bold choices to cover a family indirectly, yet closely impacted by 9/11. Overall, I see that Furlong put much care, thought and respect to give voice to her main female heroine’s story.
I look forward to Book Two of this exciting new series! And yes, I can totally see this adapted to the screen." ~ Caitlin, NY Public School Teacher
Reader Reviews
"This book was a thrilling ride! First of all, who knew Richmond Virginia was a hot-bed of supernatural activity? Well, except for said supernatural beings, that is! Stacy, the Jewish chess champion from New York City thought she could handle anything after 9/11 and the bullies of the chess world, but her dad and stepmom have other ideas and moved their family, including her, to what they believed was a safe environment. All Stacy wants to do is graduate high school early and return to her nice, normal life in New York. Fate might have other ideas, though. The characters are great! Stacy, Finder and Tully are full of secrets and discovering them is part of the excitement of this story. She may act tough, but Stacy has a soft spot for her little brother, Steve. Their shared secret (spoiler, so not telling) is a nice twist in the story--and something to look forward to in the next book...which I'm pre-ordering! I love how Stacy has grown and matured by the end of the book, and cannot wait for the next one." ~ Vicki D.
"This was such an exciting read! I was a bit weary of the vampire bit, having grown up in the era of Twilight, but was pleasantly surprised to see how interesting and well-incorporated it was into the plot. Stacy is such an interesting and witty character who really brought the story to life, and I love that her chess-playing actually mattered to the plot. Stacy felt so real, and is someone I would've loved to have as a friend at that age! If you like supernatural elements, sarcastic main characters, and intense fight scenes I would definitely recommend it!" ~ Allison R.
"I personally loved this book for many reasons. I can safely say that vampire fans will be up all night reading the Hidden City-as I was for most of the book. The story drew me in, and the main character was easy to relate to and very funny. All the characters are very well-written and the story is both realistic and supernatural at the same time.
Probably my favorite thing about this book is that it keeps readers interested at all parts. It's not a book that drags on, but it's also not constant action that makes no sense. It is a perfect balance between these and will keep readers turning the page for more.
In short, I recommend this book for vampire lovers, adventure lovers, and readers of all ages in general! So do yourself a favor and read the Hidden City, you won't regret it!
The story drew me in, and the main character was easy to relate to and very funny. All the characters are very well-written and the story is both realistic and supernatural at the same time." ~ Celeste G., Age 13
"I absolutely loved this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Can’t wait for book 2!!
" ~ Crazy Cat Lady