Justine's Thoughts: The Seven Rays by Jessica Bendinger

The Seven Rays
By Jessica Bendinger

Source: Won
Pages: 328
Rating: 3/5
Book Description:

You are more than you think you are.

That is the anonymous message that Beth Michaels receives right before she starts seeing things. Not just a slept-through-my-alarm-clock, late-for-homeroom, haven’t-had-my-caffeine-fix kind of seeing things. It all starts with some dots, annoying pink dots that pop up on and over her mom and her best friend’s face. But then things get out of control and Beth is seeing people’s pasts, their fears, their secrets, their desires. The images are coming at Beth in hi-def streaming vide and she can’t stop it. Everyone thinks she’s crazy and she’s pretty sure she agrees with them. But crazy doesn’t explain the gold envelopes that have started arriving, containing seeing keys and mysterious tarot cards. To Beth, it all seems too weird to be true. You are more than you think you are? But here’s the thing: What if she is?

A quote:

It’s okay to be scared, and it’s okay to fail. But you have to try. Not trying isn’t an option.

Any thoughts:

What instantly grabbed me was the eye-opening plot. Because how original does it sound? A girl who can suddenly dots in her vision? Notes that start appearing out of nowhere? Then insert a college guy who kisses like electricity (literally) and the only one who thinks she’s sane. If you ask me, I think it’s a definite hooker.

For the first bit of the book, I was a little sceptical about it. I mean, there’s Beth and her best friend, Shirl talking about nothing else but losing their virginity. I’m guessing their hormones are running on high. Mostly Shirl’s. She’s the type of girl who has been pining for popularity and attention, going on and on about clothes and boys. But that’s overshadowed by Beth’s voice, which drew me in. She has a great sense of humour that made me laugh out loud at some parts. Sometimes, she would combine two words and create a brand new one such as “the feelsees” (feeling and seeing; used to describe what happens when she brushes by a person). I thought it was strange but creative.

There were also scenes that were weird. Actually, the truth is -- the entire book is weird. That’s what makes it captivating. There is a sex scene which isn’t technically a “sex” scene. There is the irresistible relationship with Richie who can strangely read her mind anytime (which to me sounds so creepy). There is a sense of adventure that includes a car chase and a mental hospital. But there are also important messages as well, such as forgiveness and love. I only wish that there is another sequel to this book since the ending isn’t satisfying enough.

Overall, it was a very enjoyable and unique read, but I need and want more.