Reviews

Spun by Catherine McKenzie

kdurham2's review against another edition

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5.0

Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings

The star that Katie followed to rehab to get the inside scoop narrates this novella that takes place after the first book ends; after they left rehab. Amber is trying to pick up the pieces and really move on as a starlet must do when they are overcoming some personal speed bumps, but a major tragedy hits and she must reevaluate everything.

I loved reading this one right after read the first - Spin (review was up an hour ago). Katie told the full story in the first book and I agree with the author taking Amber's voice because I think Katie's story was complete in the first book. I wouldn't have minded if this novella had gotten the full version treatment and a whole story told through Amber's point of view.

doublearegee's review against another edition

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4.0

A nice novella add on to Spin. I'm curious if there's now going to be a full out novel about Olivia, and how Amber turns out.

mj_j's review against another edition

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2.0

I quite enjoyed Spin but this short story follow up didn't measure up.

lynnedf's review against another edition

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5.0

Loved it. super fun page turner. Amber is recovering and life isn't all that grand at the moment ... I especially enjoyed the ending. recommended read if you like Catherine's other books. Any "Spin" fans will not be disappointed. We even get to meet up with Kate and Henry again :0)

crolovr's review against another edition

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4.0

Spun is a followup Novella of Spin. It continues Amber Sheppard's story as she
tries to get her life under control. Spun answers some of my questions that I
had at the end of Spin.

mountie9's review against another edition

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5.0

The Good Stuff

Enjoyed the scenes between Amber and Kate. They have a complicated but intriguing relationship
The speech Henry gives at Connor's funeral was beautiful and honest
Fabulous insights about the paparazzi and the famous and wanting the rich and famous to fall hard
I am so glad Catherine wrote this novella, as I wanted to know more about Amber
Realistic character development. I was intrigued by Amber in Spin, but I fell in love with her in Spun
Wickedly funny, yet heartfelt and honest
Didn't want it to end. Read it in one setting while curled up in a warm blanket with a lovely Pinot Noir
I sort of see Amber as a more in touch Lindsay Lohan - just a little bit, you can see hope for Amber's future, unlike Ms Lohan however. (That girl needs some tough love and to be around people that actually give a damn for her)
Once again Ms McKenzie entertains, while at the same time making you think
McKenzie is a born storyteller and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next
For those who have not yet had a chance to read anything by this author, what the hell are you waiting for, get yourself to a bookstore (I suggest Chapters Shawnessy in Calgary, where a delightful CER named JR works - yes that is me) and pick up everything, you will not be disappointed


The Not So Good Stuff

Too bloody short, wanted more. Amber is a delightfully fresh and fun character.
Would have liked more of the wickedly funny
Yup so both points here are just saying that it was fabulous, I just wanted more (I know, I know I am such a selfish little git)

Favorite Quotes/Passages

"I suspect this stance actually has more to do with Kanye leaving me off a guest list or two in the last year, but I leave Olivia to her moral ground."

"Didn't keep you from taking the assignment, though did it? Again."
"True. My name is Kate. I'm an alcoholic and an awful person."
"You have to really mean it when you say that."

"None of my new clothes fit me properly and I've gained three pounds. I'm starting to look healthy, which had better stop pretty soon if i ever want to get cast in anything again."

4.5/5 Dewey's

I received an e-book copy from the author in exchange for an honest review

tracyt223's review

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4.0

I think I enjoyed this one even more than the first!!! So many twists and turns, I loved it!!

beckylej's review against another edition

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5.0

In the many months since her stint in rehab, actress Amber Sheppard has not had things easy. She's kept clean but none of that seems to matter. The paparazzi are always watching, waiting for her to fall back into her old ways. Even the casting agents doubt her. And then there's Connor Parks. After all they've been through - all the ups and downs, the fights, the breakups, the make ups - Amber just can't let him go. And so, after months of pleading via email and text, Amber breaks down and agrees to meet him. In just one instant everything changes for Amber... and Connor, making the former Girl Next Door again the center of attention as everyone waits to see what will happen next.

SPUN packs a wallop for such a short read! While it's easy to sympathize with Amber in SPIN, SPUN offers up a chance to see things from her perspective. Kate and Henry do make appearances but this time Amber is the real star of the show. And oh did I love her! Gone is the petulant young actress dead set on being difficult. In her place is a new, more mature Amber who has already started to learn the error of her ways and still longs for more. More stability, more trust from those around her, more respect in the industry.

And without giving too much away to you, potential reader, McKenzie doesn't make it easy on her.

gellyy's review against another edition

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3.0

Nice visit with some characters I liked! Interesting end to the story of TGND.

ashleyspilk's review against another edition

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4.0

Liked Spin, but liked this better. I like Amber a whole heck of a lot better. Does well to humanize the character.