Title: Transparent
Author: Natalie Whipple
Format: Paperback, 368 pages
Genre: YA, Fantasy
Release Date: May 21, 2013
Publisher: HarperTeen
Source: eARC supplied by the Publisher for honest review

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Plenty of teenagers feel invisible. Fiona McClean actually is.

An invisible girl is a priceless weapon. Fiona’s own father has been forcing her to do his dirty work for years—everything from spying on people to stealing cars to breaking into bank vaults.

After sixteen years, Fiona’s had enough. She and her mother flee to a small town, and for the first time in her life, Fiona feels like a normal life is within reach. But Fiona’s father isn’t giving up that easily.

Of course, he should know better than anyone: never underestimate an invisible girl.


I had read some very mixed reviews about this book before reading it myself, and I will admit I was a little hesitant. Because of two things, one being the superhero powers that are given to the characters, and because of the Mob family dynamic that really isn't discussed in YA. But I will say that I was really happy and surprised by how much I enjoyed this book.

To start, I thought the main character was written brilliantly, she was spunky and full of attitude--which would happen if you were the only invisible person in the whole world. I also loved that the main character had a very hard time trusting anyone that wasn't her brother Will. It gave us a chance to see the family dynamic without having to be told about it by the character herself.

The secondary characters were also well done because of their ability to advance the plot but also serve a purpose--They each added something to every scene. I also thought the love story that appeared at the beginning was very refreshing because it is not what you think it is, and I loved that. It was very sweet and their connection was felt from the very beginning. But I did think that it was a little predictable at times.

Fiona's father was a very interesting character because he was so terrfying from the word of mouth that happened throughout the book. But to be honest when we meet him in person I didn't find him all that scary. And I think that was something that took me away from the story, especially ay the end. Speaking of the end, although semi realistic, I felt like it could have been better. I felt like the resolution was swift and a little too perfect for me. I wish I could go into more detail but I can't because of spoilers :(

Overall I thought Transparent was extremely entertaining and fast paced read that kept me reading from page one. Its a perfect read for those days on the beach or just sitting on your porch!