After Reading: Secrets / Outcast (JournalStone's DoubleDown, #5) by John R. Little and Mark Allan Gunnells

By: Meradeth Houston on 4:00 AM

The Double Down series continues with two stories that explore the very different realities of Karen Richard’s life. The common prologue springboards two talented authors into alternate realities – two stories, two authors, one book.

In John R. Little’s Secrets, Karen Richardson can occasionally stop time. She is free to move around while others are frozen in time. She finds the hidden truths of those around her, including her new friend, Bobby Jersey, who may not be all that he seems. At first it seemed fun, powerful, exhilarating, but in the end Karen’s power may cost her everything she’s ever cared about.
In Mark Allan Gunnells’ Outcast, Karen Richardson is a college freshman dealing with a non-existent social life, a difficult roommate…and the power of telekinesis. As her powers grow, Karen begins to lose control. Her new friend Bobby Jersey offers his assistance. But is he somebody that Karen can trust, or will her abilities destroy everything and everyone she knows and loves. (Goodreads)

This was an interesting read: not something I've ever really encountered before, but I enjoyed it for its uniqueness. The stories both incorporate a similar snippet, which the two authors use to create two worlds and two vastly different stories. Both were interesting and drew me in completely. I did find the second story to be more to my personal taste, and I really loved the ghost aspect to it, along with some twists and turns that were a bit obvious, but still fun. In all, this was a quick read, quite enjoyable, and definitely different! Worth checking out for sure :)

Have you read something like this before? Did you enjoy it?