Quick Take

ARE YOU PLAYING THE GAME OR IS THE GAME PLAYING YOU?Vee doesn't know if she has the guts to play NERVE, an anonymous online game of dares. But whoever's behind the game knows exactly what she wants, enticing her with lustworthy prizes and a sizzling-hot partner. With Ian on her team, it's easy to agree to another dare. And another. And another. At first it's thrilling as the Watchers cheer them on to more dangerous challenges. But suddenly the game turns deadly. Will Vee and Ian risk their lives for the Grand Prize dare, or will they lose NERVE?

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Nerve

Introduction

Nerve, written by Jeanne Ryan, is a thrilling and intense novel that explores the dangers of an online game of dares. The story follows Vee, a high school student who is enticed by the anonymous game creators to participate in a series of increasingly dangerous challenges. As Vee and her partner, Ian, navigate the game, they face deadly stakes and must decide whether to risk their lives for the ultimate prize. In this article, we will delve into the book's author, analyze readers' views, and discuss the reasons for both recommending and not recommending this captivating novel.

About Jeanne Ryan

Jeanne Ryan, the author of Nerve, has an interesting background. Born into a family with eleven siblings, Ryan spent her early childhood in Hawaii before moving to various locations around the world. She has tried her hand at various professions, including war game simulation and youth development research. However, Ryan found her true passion in writing fiction. Today, she resides in the Pacific Northwest and continues to create engaging stories.

Analysis of Views

Intense and Fast-Paced: Many readers praised the book's writing and the intense plot. The fast-paced nature of the story kept them on the edge of their seats, making it difficult to put down.
Relatable Characters: The characters in Nerve were found to be relatable by many readers. Vee's desire for recognition and the allure of prizes resonated with readers, making her a compelling protagonist.
Gripping Plot: The book's plot was described as gripping and suspenseful. Readers were intrigued by the escalating dares and the increasing stakes, which kept them engaged throughout the story.
Reminiscent of Hunger Games: Some readers compared Nerve to Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games series, citing similarities in the intense competition and high stakes. This comparison added to the book's appeal for those who enjoyed the Hunger Games series.
Thought-Provoking: While some readers found certain aspects of the book problematic, others appreciated the deeper themes explored in Nerve. The novel raises questions about consumerism, obsession with fame, and the consequences of playing dangerous games.

Reasons for Recommendation

Intense and Fast-Paced: Readers who enjoy fast-paced stories with high stakes and suspense will find Nerve highly recommended. The book's intense plot and fast-paced nature keep readers engaged from start to finish.
Relatable Characters: Vee's character, in particular, resonates with readers who can relate to her desires for recognition and material prizes. The relatable characters add depth to the story and make it more engaging.
Gripping Plot: The gripping plot of Nerve keeps readers on the edge of their seats, making it difficult to put down. The escalating dares and increasing stakes create a sense of urgency that keeps readers invested in the story.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Problematic Characterization: Some readers found Vee's character problematic due to her reliance on boys and her lack of self-awareness. They felt that her decisions were often driven by external factors rather than personal growth or introspection.
Lack of Depth: While some readers appreciated the deeper themes explored in Nerve, others felt that the book lacked depth in character development and overall substance. They felt that certain aspects of the plot were not fully fleshed out and lacked credibility.

Conclusion

Nerve by Jeanne Ryan is a thrilling novel that explores the dangers of an online game of dares. With its intense plot, relatable characters, and gripping suspense, it has garnered praise from readers who appreciate fast-paced stories with high stakes. While some readers found certain aspects problematic, such as characterization and lack of depth, overall, Nerve is recommended for those who enjoy intense and thought-provoking reads. The book raises important questions about consumerism, obsession with fame, and the consequences of playing dangerous games, making it a captivating read for fans of young adult fiction.