Book Review: Keeping the Distance

Title: Keeping the Distance
Series: I Heart Iloilo, #1
Author: Clarisse David
Publication Date: February 06, 2017
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon / Book Depository

No bets. No fake relationships. Just a very real one that has to be kept under wraps.

Seventeen-year-old Melissa wants to dye her hair cotton candy pink and focus on her ukulele instead of Physics. But she can't. As the daughter of a Catholic school principal, living up to her model student image 24/7 is a must. Something's about to give under all the pressure. She only hopes it isn't her.

Getting involved with a troublemaking basketball player is the last possible thing she needs...

Lance is used to getting what he wants. With a pretty face he uses to full advantage and his role as co-captain of the basketball team, the easy way is the only way he's ever known. Until the day he notices the prim Melissa he's known forever is actually hot and decides to ask her out. He has no idea he's about to learn the lesson of a lifetime.

Not getting what he wants might exactly be what he needs.

MY THOUGHTS
Let me just say that this book was cute AND sweet, but it also has a tiny bit of angst in it which I happen to like. The hate to love trope is one of my favorite tropes in stories because of the tension between the two main characters and the exciting feeling of reading both of them finally realizing their true feelings for each other.

Lance got a crush on Melissa and he's determined to show her that he likes her. Too bad that his ways of showing her is either through teasing or getting them both in trouble, sending them to the principal's office. Melissa, however, wasn't having any of it. Not only is she a role model student, she's also the daughter of the principal. She has an image to keep and she can't have Lance be in the way. It was torture enough to be keeping a good image despite her wanting to throw it away. She didn't need a him to be an addition to this dilemma in her life.

Their teasing and bickering were fun to read and I swear I snorted out loud at the quote below.

"There's something wrong with my phone."

"What?"

"It doesn't have your number in it."

SMOOTH. Hashtag Hugot.

I love that conversation between Lance and Melissa's father where Lance stood up for her and made a huge point that it should be her decision in the end. How true it that. Mel's dad depicts a lot of parents being protective over their kids to the point that they have this picture perfect image of them set already, and said kid should be doing the most to be that image in order to meet the parents' expectations. It's actually pretty sad and it hurts because this is reality for a lot of kids who are too scared to voice their honest opinion to their parents in case of disappointment.

To the minor characters, I love Jace and Cam. They're the kind of friends you'd want to have in your life. I also love how Jace likes to keep things neat. As someone who likes to be organized and be neat, it's nice to read about it because I can relate. There's also Lance's sister, Julianne, who seemed to be Lance's cheerleader and she's pretty sweet to Mel.

Overall, Keeping the Distance was a fun read that tackled not just romance, but also friendship and family, and it left me with a smile on my face.

MY RATING

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Book Review: Saving Francesca

Title: Saving Francesca
Author: Melina Marchetta
Publication Date: March 31, 2003
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
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Francesca is stuck at St. Sebastian’s, a boys' school that pretends it's coed by giving the girls their own bathroom. Her only female companions are an ultra-feminist, a rumored slut, and an impossibly dorky accordion player. The boys are no better, from Thomas, who specializes in musical burping, to Will, the perpetually frowning, smug moron that Francesca can't seem to stop thinking about.

Then there's Francesca's mother, who always thinks she knows what's best for Francesca—until she is suddenly stricken with acute depression, leaving Francesca lost, alone, and without an inkling of who she really is. Simultaneously humorous, poignant, and impossible to put down, this is the story of a girl who must summon the strength to save her family, her social life and—hardest of all—herself.

MY THOUGHTS
Francesca Spinelli transferred from her all-girls' school, St. Stella's to St. Sebastian's, because her parents thought it would be convenient for her and her brother to be in the same school now that St. Sebastian is starting to accept female students. Unfortunately for her, the female classmates she had back at St. Stella's weren't the same group who transferred with her to St. Sebastian's. And not only is Francesca trying to adjust to her new life in a new school, she's also trying to find her own person. Things at home aren't looking good with her mom's depression and her dad not knowing what to do.

Melina Marchetta once again delivered a story that gripped my heart. I don't know how she does it but I hope she continues to do it in her upcoming books. I read The Piper's Son first when I should've read Saving Francesca instead. TPS took place years (...? Or maybe just a year. I haven't been keeping track on the EXACT date.) after SF and even if you could still read TPS without the need to read SF because the book could still stand on its own with its story, it's still a nice thing to read SF because it will give you a

Saving Francesca revolves around Francesca finding herself because all her life she has this "picture" of who she is courtesy of her mother and her friends from St. Stella.

I want to be an adjective again.
But I'm a noun. 
A nothing. A nobody. A no one.

I don't know how many times Marchetta's books have hit home (meaning have my feelings in knots). This one really had me because of Francesca's relationship with her mom. I had to send my mom a text message after I finished the book and told her I love her (I'm away from home, that's why). Depression is such an ugly and scary thing. I couldn't even begin to describe it but I've lived through it and I never want to back to that place. Her mom's well-being really tested their family's strength to hold on and I couldn't hold back my tears every time Frankie talks to her mom but her mom isn't the same as before. And it hurts to read when she had to argue with her dad and that time when she ran away.

The depression belongs to all of us. I think the family down the road whose mother was having a baby and they went around the neighborhood saying, "We're pregnant." I want to go around the neighborhood saying, "We're depressed." If my mum can't get out of bed in the morning, all of us feel the same. Her silence has become ours, and it's eating us alive.

I had to give it to Marchetta on how she tackled depression in this book. She clearly put it here that it's not something you get over overnight. It's not something you are prepared for, like Frankie's mom was in high spirits the other day and the next, she didn't have the energy to even get out of bed. Frankie, herself, was even fighting the feeling that she felt like is crawling inside her to take over.

Now on to the lighter side of the story: the friendship between Frankie, Siobhan, Tara, and Justine. 

I am always weak for friendships, especially female friendships. These girls didn't start out as friends and they're all so different from each other that it marvels you how they got along and formed this beautiful bond that will likely last a lifetime.

I think I'm a bit in love with these girls. They make me feel giddy. Like I haven't a care in the world. Like I'm fearless.
Like I'm used to be.

And I just have to add these three guys: Will Trombal, Thomas Mackee, and Jimmy Hailler. Bless them and their existence because they also play a big part in this book and I have come to love all of them.

This was honestly so heartwarming and bittersweet with a side of romantic and funny. Another great read from Melina Marchetta that is bound to land in my reread shelf.


MY RATING

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Book Review: The Piper's Son

Title: The Piper's Son
Author: Melina Marchetta
Publication Date: March 01, 2010
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary
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The award-winning author of Finnikin of the Rock and Jellicoe Road pens a raw, compelling novel about a family’s hard-won healing on the other side of trauma.

Award-winning author Melina Marchetta reopens the story of the group of friends from her acclaimed novel Saving Francesca - but five years have passed, and now it’s Thomas Mackee who needs saving. After his favorite uncle was blown to bits on his way to work in a foreign city, Tom watched his family implode. He quit school and turned his back on his music and everyone that mattered, including the girl he can’t forget. Shooting for oblivion, he’s hit rock bottom, forced to live with his single, pregnant aunt, work at the Union pub with his former friends, and reckon with his grieving, alcoholic father. Tom’s in no shape to mend what’s broken. But what if no one else is either? An unflinching look at family, forgiveness, and the fierce inner workings of love and friendship, The Piper’s Son redefines what it means to go home again.

MY THOUGHTS
Marchetta delivered a very emotional story that tackled loss, grief, heartbreak, hope and love in The Piper's Son. We follow Tom's life after the death of his uncle and how it affected him and his family.

I read this before Saving Francesca and how I wish I could unread it so I can read SF first. I was kind of spoiled of some stuff here, no matter how little some are, and it was an unfortunate thing for me. Nevertheless, I still loved the story and there were a lot more going on with Tom and his family so my focus was on that.

Throughout the story I felt Tom's hurt and I actually understand him regarding his feelings over his "broken" family. It was heartbreaking to know how a tight-knit family like his crashed down when his uncle died and everyone is unsure of wanting something. I could even feel his aunt Georgie's grief and the things that she's been dealing with in her life.

What made me love The Piper's Son was Marchetta's take on family relationship, friendship and mental health. Though this can be said to her other books too. The way she writes these grip your heart and attention that it sucks you into the story. It also gives you a view of life because these events also happen in the real world where it's a present


MY RATING

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Book Review: Coast

Title: Coast
Series: Kick, Push, #2
Author: Jay McLean
Publication Date: June 07, 2016
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary
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One life-changing summer.
One boy.
The boy.
The boy who offered me safe touches and heart-stopping smiles - smiles he shared with his son.
We filled our days with porch-step kisses,
filled our ears with laughter,
filled our hearts with love.
Deep, soul-aching, desperate love.

But love is misleading.
It's an invisible, fleeting moment.
Somewhere between false adoration and pure hatred comes an emotion, a vulnerable need, a single desire.
It lives within the ones who miss it, who crave it,
who know better than to expect it.
Love is relentless.
Even when that love turns to hate, turns to loathing,
turns to pain.

Love should heal you.
But it can also break you.
Believe me, I know...
Because I'm Becca Owens - a broken girl...
...And he's Josh Warden - the boy who broke me.

MY THOUGHTS
Coast is the sequel of Kick, Push, book three of Jay McLean's The Road Trilogy--though I'm not sure if this is the last book.

I cried when I read Kick, Push and to think, I was still at the prologue when the waterworks started and all throughout the book I felt as if Jay McLean wants me drowning in the sea of my emotions. I didn't cry as hard when I read this one but I did have my teary-eyed moments. I don't want to get into detail because I might spoil and where's the fun (and hurt) in that? All I can say is that Coast still tugged my heartstrings like how Kick, Push did but this time, I'm glad that my heart wasn't feeling all too heavy most of the time.

What if you were the land, and I was the sea? What if the coast we'd been searching for was us all along... living and existing together?

Becca and Josh grew as characters in this book where they pursue their dreams and made sure they got something planned for the future. I'm proud of Becca for going strong because she never had an easy past and that past affected her current state. Her not giving up and showing determination is something to look up to and I can really connect to her love for photography. Josh, on the other hand, is still a great dad despite how busy he is with his career. I'm also glad he can control his temper now although he and Becca still got this jealousy thing in them but it didn't really take me away from them because there were times when their jealousy was funny to read.

And Tommy... I LOVE THIS LITTLE BOY SO MUCH. He's like this ray of sunshine that brings light to the people around him, especially Becca's. Gosh the effect he has on Becca is the reason why I can't help but cry every time he makes her smile/cry from happiness. I love his scenes, I love how he loves Becca (and of course, his dad...), I love many things about this little kid and I'm so happy he played a big part in the lives of of these characters. There are those kids in books where they're just "there" but I gotta give it to the author for not sidelining Tommy. He's such a sweet kid.

I've also come to love the many minor characters who have helped and supported Becca and Josh to go forward. Though I kind of miss Blake and Chloe but all's good and I'm happy where they are now. There's also Josh's friends who were really amusing whenever they tease him.

Overall, Coast was a book that was honestly satisfying to read since Kick, Push broke my heart. This one STILL did broke my heart but I love how our main characters were moving on with their lives to a better future. This was bittersweet and somehow tragic, but it made me appreciate the characters celebrating life despite the bumps along the way.

MY RATING

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Book Review: Wasted Words

Title: Wasted Words
Author: Staci Hart
Publication Date: May 19, 2016
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary
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Some universal truths refuse to be ignored.

Peanut butter and jelly are a match made in heaven. Spaghetti and meatballs are best friends forever. And guys like Tyler Knight don’t go for girls like Cam Emerson.

She knew from the second she met him that he didn’t belong on her bookshelf, the six-foot-six ex-tight end with a face so all-American, it could have sold apple pie. So she shelved him next to the supermodels and rock stars and took her place on her own shelf — the one with the flannel-clad, pasty-faced comic book nerds. Most of her boyfriends have existed between the pages of books, but rather than worrying over her own lacking love life, she puts all her energy into playing Cupid, using her job at the book bar, Wasted Words, as her stomping ground.

Tyler Knight always looks on the bright side. His career-ending injury turned into a job as a sports agent. A horrible breakup led him to Cam, his quirky, smart roommate who is far more beautiful than she realizes. She’s made it perfectly clear she’s not interested in him — not like that at least — but if she ever changes her mind, he won’t hesitate. Because he doesn’t see the lines she’s drawn between them, as much as she insists that they’re there. Deep down he knows that despite their differences, they’re a match well made.

MY THOUGHTS
Wasted Words is the typical "girl is a nerd, guy is a hot stud, and they fall in love" trope. Although I don't mind  because every protagonist has their own strengths and weaknesses, this was just a let down for me--and it's not even about the classic trope in romance books.

Cam is a strong girl who's passionate about her work and comic books and wants to see people happy BUT her tendency to make two people fall in love with each other according to her was upsetting and frustrating to read. She was just pulling the matchmaking card here and there and it was making me sad that she's hurting other people's feelings because things weren't going according to her plan (e.g. Martin.. poor guy). Tyler was knocking some sense into her but it took her a while... she was that hard to crack and stop. She did share her reason why she was doing this but I just find it lame because it's not your business to step in someone's love life just because yours did a wrong turn. I'm just upset and sad because she's adorable whenever she's not doing any of that stuff.

Tyler's friend was also annoying... and I don't even have the heart to remember his name and I wish Tyler did too because it was obvious that the guy isn't the same good guy as before so I don't see the reason why he's still sticking around. Same dude also caused Tyler and Cam's relationship to bend and break--though both are neither faultless anyway.

I did enjoy the story when Tyler and Cam finally mend their relationship and admit to their faults. I also love Tyler's family, they're a great bunch to be around. Even though this book wasn't something I fully enjoyed, I still like how I enjoy how Tyler and Cam went from best friends to lovers--if I put aside the things that I didn't like. Also, Martin and Bayleigh made my reading time worth it.

MY RATING

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Book Review: The Problem With Forever

Title: The Problem With Forever
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication Date: June 01, 2016
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary
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For some people, silence is a weapon. For Mallory "Mouse" Dodge, it's a shield. Growing up, she learned that the best way to survive was to say nothing. And even though it's been four years since her nightmare ended, she's beginning to worry that the fear that holds her back will last a lifetime.

Now, after years of homeschooling with loving adoptive parents, Mallory must face a new milestone—spending her senior year at public high school. But of all the terrifying and exhilarating scenarios she's imagined, there's one she never dreamed of—that she'd run into Rider Stark, the friend and protector she hasn't seen since childhood, on her very first day.

It doesn't take long for Mallory to realize that the connection she shared with Rider never really faded. Yet the deeper their bond grows, the more it becomes apparent that she's not the only one grappling with lingering scars from the past. And as she watches Rider's life spiral out of control, Mallory must make a choice between staying silent and speaking out—for the people she loves, the life she wants and the truths that need to be heard.

MY THOUGHTS
As heartbreaking as this was, it was sadly too predictable for me. I'm emphasizing the "too" because this was like Perfect Chemistry (Simone Elkeles) meets Until Friday Night (by Abbi Glines) but even without those two books, it's still something I felt like I've already read before that I can already tell what's going to happen next. I didn't also feel the romance much in this book? Like it didn't spark something in me though I did find some of their moments precious and as the story goes on, it does progress.

Despite how I was kind of let down by this book, still, props to the author for tackling neglect and abuse through a girl perspective who's now moving on with her life and looking forward to a bright future. I can't say it was perfect executed but I like how our protagonist is trying her best. It was good reading what goes through her mind when she wants to speak like she's trying to tell herself that it's okay and when she does, she cheers herself up. It was actually cute and heartfelt that this girl with a rough past is not backing down--though she has her moments of wanting to speak but unable to, I still find her determination to be admirable.

I still recommend The Problem With Forever because I'm sure some people will likely be touched by the story.

MY RATING

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Book Review: The Unexpected Everything

Title: The Unexpected Everything
Author: Morgan Matson
Publication Date: May 3, 2016
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary
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Andie had it all planned out.

When you are a politician’s daughter who’s pretty much raised yourself, you learn everything can be planned or spun, or both. Especially your future.

Important internship? Check.

Amazing friends? Check.

Guys? Check (as long as we’re talking no more than three weeks).

But that was before the scandal. Before having to be in the same house with her dad. Before walking an insane number of dogs. That was before Clark and those few months that might change her whole life.

Because here’s the thing—if everything’s planned out, you can never find the unexpected.

And where’s the fun in that?

MY THOUGHTS
Another great read from Morgan Matson that I'm sure to be rereading it once I get the free time. This is the second book of hers that I read after Amy & Roger's Epic Detour and again, she didn't disappoint.

The protagonist - Andie was a cool protagonist for me. I don't have a complaint about Andie. She's likable and reading through her POV was one heck of a ride. The thing about her is that she cares for the people she loves that sometimes she does things her own way to solve the problem.

Family relationships - it was a rocky road for Andie and her dad to get past the short-lived conversations and awkwardness. This is one of the things I loved a lot in this book. I loved how her dad was trying and Andie was willing to cooperate because really, I've read a ton of parent-child relationships where either party is too stubborn to give up their pride for the night. Regarding her mom, it was sad whenever Andie shares a memory of her. You can really tell she loves her and how much of a sweet person she is.

Friendship - I love it whenever the four of them are together. They had their funny and sad moments and their group chats are always amusing to read. Although, like every friendship, theirs had their ups and downs. It was just unfortunate what happened but the ending made me think that there's still hope for them to be together again as four again.

Romance - I love Clark and Andie's moments because they talk about a lot of stuff and this whole story they made up was really entertaining and together, they were just really cute. I like they started as friends and bonded first. Their relationship wasn't also smooth but how they worked it out was a good read.

Overall, The Unexpected Everything was good and unexpectedly bittersweet. A reread-worthy young adult contemporary. This book has extra bonus points for the puppies.

MY RATING

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Book Review: Shameless

Title: Shameless
Author: Lex Martin
Publication Date: April 26, 2016
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
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Brady…

What the hell do I know about raising a baby? Nothing. Not a goddamn thing.

Yet here I am, the sole guardian of my niece. I’d be lost if it weren’t for Katherine, the beautiful girl who seems to have all the answers. Katherine, who’s slowly finding her way into my cynical heart.

I keep reminding myself that I can’t fall for someone when we don’t have a future. But telling myself this lie and believing it are two different things.

Katherine…

When Brady shows up on a Harley, looking like an avenging angel—six feet, three inches of chiseled muscle, eyes the color of wild sage, and sun-kissed skin emblazoned with tattoos—I’m not sure if I should fall at his feet or run like hell. Because if I tell him what happened the night his family died, he might hate me.

What I don’t count on are the nights we spend together trying to forget the heartache that brought us here. I promise him it won’t mean anything, that I won’t fall in love.

I shouldn’t make promises I can’t keep.

MY THOUGHTS
Lex Martin made me so happy with this one. Before Shameless, I read two books that made me emotionally exhausted (in a good way) so I needed something that could stop my book hangover and pick up my mood: Shameless did just that. Although this was also an emotional roller-coaster, but it was definitely what I needed at the moment and I'm so glad I picked it up. This book had enough fluff and sweetness to make me swoon. It also had enough hotness to make me melt. Props also for the humor.

I roll my eyes. "I know I look young but I'm not that young." I already told him my age.

"No, twenty-three is old enough."

"Old enough for what?" I ask innocently as I stare up at him. Old enough for you?

He clears his throat. "Old enough to vote."

Brady just received a shocking news that caused him to pack his bags and stay in Texas. There, he was met with a realization that made him wish things were different and if only he could've have been a little more understanding and open. Taking care of a baby was never on his list of expectations. And he has no idea where to start. Even though he's clueless of what to do, Katherine was there to help.

Brady and Katherine make a really good tag-team. Brady's patient and a good listener everytime Katherine explains something to him and I love it whenever Kat inserts a little bit of Spanish here and there... or when she's pissed so she goes on full rambling/cursing. I love their chemistry, it's one of the things I enjoyed reading. And they're not only raising a little girl, they also got crops and animals to take care of plus some things in the house needed fixing. I want to take about the animals though. There are A LOT. For someone who loves animals, I want to live in this farm and adopt them all. I suddenly want a raccoon (Brady and Bandit are so cute... and hilarious).

I feel like I flew through this book--which means the story was good that I didn't have the heart to put it down. Kat and Brady's relationship isn't also insta-love. It had a good build-up and it was one of the book relationships I had a good time reading because of its adorableness, sweetness, hilarity and hotness (the sexual tension was just *fans self*) and the two had this understanding and respect where they don't push the other when one doesn't want to open up just yet. And when it comes to family relationships, I'm glad there's no "evil one" here because lately, I wanted to read something with a good family dynamic. There were some issues, yes, but they don't take away the meaning of "family". They're a good bunch to be around.

I already plan on rereading this. Can't get enough of Kat and Brady, and little Isabella just pulls your heartstrings with her cuteness.

MY RATING

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Book Review: Listen To Me

Title: Listen To Me
Series: Fusion, #1
Author: Kristen Proby
Publication Date: April 12, 2016
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
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Seduction is quickly becoming the hottest new restaurant in Portland, and Addison Wade is proud to claim 1/5 of the credit. She’s determined to make it a success and can’t think of a better way to bring in new customers than live music. But when former rock star Jake Keller swaggers through the doors to apply for the weekend gig, she knows she’s in trouble. Addie instantly recognizes him—his posters were plastered all over her bedroom walls in high school—he’s all bad boy...exactly her type and exactly what she doesn’t need.

Jake Keller walked away from the limelight five years ago and yearns to return to what’s always driven him: the music. If he gets to work for a smart-mouthed, funny-as-hell bombshell, all the better. But talking Addie into giving him the job is far easier than persuading her that he wants more than a romp in her bed. Just when she begins to drop her walls, Jake’s past finally catches up with him.

Will Addie be torn apart once again or will Jake be able to convince her to drown out her doubts and listen to her heart?

MY THOUGHTS
I love (yes, present tense) Kristen Proby's With Me in Seattle series and I'm not surprised that I love this one as well. Her writing when it comes to romance, friendships and family relationships (blood-related or not) makes me sigh happily because there's always this strong bond the characters have and it makes you want to be a part of them (I want the Montgomery family to adopt me.... but at the same time I don't because I wanna marry Will).

"It's our song," she says softly.

"No, baby. It's your song. We don't need a song. We are a song."

Addie and Jake make me want to cry.

I felt all warm and fuzzy on the inside reading Listen To Me and then I was on a ride down Emotional Street. This was funny and sweet but also heartbreaking at the same time. One of the many things I love about this is the music. It somehow takes me back to Play With Me and Rock With Me (from the With Me in Seattle series). Jake Keller singing his heart out was beautiful to read considering what he'd been through-something that I won't spoil. And Addie's got the hots for musicians so I don't blame her falling for him. Same goes for Jake because Addie's one amazing woman and I admire her determination and passion even though she's been betrayed and left many times already. Loved reading that they took their time in getting to know each other at the same time being honest that they are also attracted to each other. One of the things I love about Kristen Proby's writing because even if the attraction and tension are there, there's always this build-up in the characters' relationship which I approve of.

There were times where I want to shake the main characters back to their senses (more on Addie) because they're sometimes not thinking clearly and are stubborn. But sometimes it was understandable and it just made me flip the pages more because the story's pretty interesting. I love the angst. And not only did Jake and Addie made my feelings whirl in a crazy ride, so did the minor characters. I wouldn't call them minor characters for long though because this book is a part of the series and they will definitely be getting their own books and the thought of reading them gets me so excited.

This is my first full review of an Adult book. I read Adult books but only post little snippets of my thoughts in Goodreads and not in my blog. This one felt like it deserves its own review simply because I love Kristen Proby's works and this one just caught my attention and sparked my interest for the series.

MY RATING

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Book Review: November 9

Title: November 9
Author: Colleen Hoover
Publication Date: November 10, 2015
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary
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Fallon meets Ben, an aspiring novelist, the day before her scheduled cross-country move. Their untimely attraction leads them to spend Fallon’s last day in L.A. together, and her eventful life becomes the creative inspiration Ben has always sought for his novel. Over time and amidst the various relationships and tribulations of their own separate lives, they continue to meet on the same date every year. Until one day Fallon becomes unsure if Ben has been telling her the truth or fabricating a perfect reality for the sake of the ultimate plot twist.

MY THOUGHTS
Colleen Hoover did another great job in surprising me with a twist and making me go through an emotional whirlwind. I still feel the aftermath of Maybe Someday, the last book of hers that I read, and I was both excited and scared to read this one. Excited because the plot sounded good, scared because Colleen Hoover knows how to deliver a great amount of angst in her books.

“What’s it called?” she asks.

“What’s what called?”

“Our book. What’s the title going to be?”

“November Nine.”

Fallon and Ben are the kind of characters you want to get to know deeper. It’s like peeling an onion and going through its layers. I hope that’s not a bad metaphor because it’s quite fitting for some reason. They got their own family issues, aspirations in life, insecurities and secrets. Their agreement to meet on every 9th of November without contact made the book and title interesting. But November 9 wasn’t just a date, it was more than that. It held a big part of both Ben and Fallon’s lives.

The book’s summary about the ultimate plot twist wasn’t lying though. For me, it was a dark kind of twist and other readers will probably put this book down and not continue it but it didn’t work on me. It got more intriguing that I had to continue. That was the reason why I grabbed on to the pages until the ending. I had a WHAT?! reaction, no kidding. Props so much to the author for tugging my emotions and for surprising me the most. When you thought things are going smooth but then it’s like, “Nah, not yet”. For that and for the engaging story, thank you to the author for another swoon-worthy yet heartbreaking book.

MY RATING

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Book Review: One More Chance

Title: One More Chance
Series: Rosemary Beach, #8; Chance, #2
Author: Abbi Glines
Publication Date: September 02, 2014
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
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Grant Carter did everything in his power to convince Harlow Manning that he was a good guy. More than a smooth-talker and someone she could trust. He had to overcome his reputation as a playboy, and his history with Harlow’s half-sister, Nan, a woman with a reputation of her own.

Harlow had taken the chance, falling hard and fast for the guy who thrilled her with his all-consuming desire. After a lifetime of avoiding bad boys like Grant, she had opened herself to the possibilities of love…

But a life-changing secret has torn them apart, and now Grant and Harlow must decide if they have enough fight to make it work - or if the pain of betrayal has permanently destroyed their future.

MY THOUGHTS
I’ve read a lot of Abbi Glines’ books but I’m not going to lie that One More Chance is definitely my favorite of them all. Grant and Harlow’s story snatched my interest since they met in Forever Too Far. Honestly, the first book (Take A Chance) didn’t really leave me some sparks due to the whole Nan situation that there’s a constant conflict in Grant and Harlow’s progressing relationship. The trust issue was somehow hard to deal with even though I understand the reason for holding back the trust. I just wasn’t much into it. And then this happened.

I shed some tears reading this and I was honestly on the edge of my seat the whole time reading the letters because I was concerned over Harlow’s situation. I know she’s one strong girl and I definitely love her as a character… STILL I WAS WORRIED. Harlow is so loved and she deserves every bit of it and it makes me happy that she loves Grant and he loves her back just as much. Grant is also making me emotional in this book that I had to read his chapters oh-so-thoroughly because he’s changed so much for the better. It was beautiful and heartwarming to read.

“Nothing in this world has ever shone as brightly as you do or made me want to be a better person like you do.”

That’s one of my favorite lines in this book. I love reading where a character gets inspired and made him/her want to be a better person for themselves and for the person they want to be with. Grant and Harlow’s relationship took such a big step and… I’m just honestly so happy to read it (happy where tears are involved).

Nan, on the other hand, I feel like I’m the only one or one of the very few who doesn’t hate her. I know the girl’s been through a rough upbringing thanks to bad and absent parenting. She just needed a hug and I’m a firm believer she’ll let out that nice girl inside her once again. The one that she did at the hospital was a touching thing to read, and so is her POV in this book. I want to hug her and tell her that she deserves love and she will find it. Her past actions are no excuse but things could still be fixed. The only thing that made me sad was that she returned to her nasty self but it’s still a long way ahead for her book so things could still smooth out.

I’m incredibly late with this book but I’m so glad that I made the decision to continue the Rosemary Beach books after Forever Too Far. One More Chance is definitely a must-read even if you fell off from the story in the last book. It’s such a good read about sacrifice, overcoming your fears, thinking about the good instead of the bad for your future, being strong despite what life brings you, and love. Love that isn’t just between two lovers but also between friends and family, blood-related or not.

“You’re our beginning. It’s time we live without fear. You’re the most wonderful chance I ever took.”

I love this one. A LOT.

MY RATING

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Book Review: More Than Music by Elizabeth Briggs

Title: More Than Music
Series: Chasing the Dream, #1
Author: Elizabeth Briggs
Publication Date: June 17, 2014
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary
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Music major Maddie Taylor just finished her junior year of college and has a summer internship lined up with the LA Philharmonic, yet every night she practices guitar and secretly dreams of a louder life. But geeky girls like her don't get to be rock stars. That is, until tattooed singer Jared Cross catches her playing guitar and invites her to join his band on The Sound, a reality TV show competition.

Once on the show, Maddie discovers there’s more to Jared than his flirty smile and bad boy reputation – and that he’s just as big a geek as she is. With each performance their attraction becomes impossible to ignore, but when the show pressures them to stay single they’re forced to keep their relationship secret.

As the competition heats up, Jared will do whatever it takes for his band to win, and Maddie must decide if following her dream is worth losing her heart.

My Thoughts
More Than Music is definitely my kind of book. So much music stuff going on and the characters/the band, despite the rock star image, are all adorable (but also hot) geeks on the inside. This came out last year but I've seen More Than Fashion (the third installment) appearing on my Twitter timeline so often that I got curious so I decided to get my hands on this. And I fell in love with it. First I fell for the music. I knew 90% of the songs mentioned and that My Chemical Romance there--instant bonus brownie points.

Maddie is definitely one of my favorite characters now. The moment she took that leap of faith by signing the contract and when she drowns herself in the music had me admiring and cheering for her. There's always a sense of happiness inside me whenever I read a character getting lost in what they love doing and being so passionate about it that they'd go the extra mile even though they knew the risks but are just so determined to reach for that dream. It makes me proud and not just for characters in the book, but also for people in real life like YES, GO FOR IT! She has her downs also, the act of running away when she thinks things are falling apart but it was really good to read her get back on her feet and continue to fight instead of caging herself in misery.

He's hot, he's got a reputation, and has lots of tats but he's secretly a geek on the inside who loves to put up quotes on the wall--oh, and he's got a smile that either warms your heart or makes you swoon. Jared is one talented musician who is pretty serious when it comes to the band. He's as passionate as Maddie when it comes to music. His confidence and the way he encouraged and helped Maddie drew me in. It was nice to read that he wasn't all around flirting even though he liked her. I was grinning ear to ear when he serenaded Maddie to ease her nervousness and that definitely was the most romantic thing I've read in the book despite the many kisses and sexy moments. Just like Maddie, he's got his bad days too but he did get back on track towards a better road.

THE SQUAD AKA THE FRIENDS WHO WERE SO WONDERFUL TO THE PROTAGONISTS: Kyle (best friend and bro), Hector, Carla, and Julie... let's add Alexis too because she's one of the nice characters in the story. I'm thankful that Maddie and Jared have these people in their lives because they are absolutely fun to read and I, myself, would love to have them as friends. Carla and Julie are the BFFs that you wouldn't trade for the world and they are just so supportive of Maddie it was so heartwarming to read. Since these friends have their own stories too, count on me to check the other books out.

I flew through this book, it was really GOOD. Love music and romance with a side of friendship that makes your heart melt at the bond they have? Then I recommend this book (I'm late for the party but hey~).

My Rating

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Book Review: This Girl by Colleen Hoover

Title: This Girl
Series: Slammed, #3
Author: Colleen Hoover
Publication Date: April 30, 2013
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary
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Layken and Will’s love has managed to withstand the toughest of circumstances and the young lovers, now married, are beginning to feel safe and secure in their union. As much as Layken relishes their new life together, she finds herself wanting to know everything there is to know about her husband, even though Will makes it clear he prefers to keep the painful memories of the past where they belong. Still, he can’t resist his wife’s pleas and so he begins to untangle his side of the story, revealing for the first time his most intimate feelings and thoughts, retelling both the good and bad moments, and sharing a few shocking confessions of his own from the time when they first met.

In This Girl, Will tells the story of their complicated relationship from his point of view. Their future rests on how well they deal with the past in this final installment of the beloved Slammed series

My Thoughts

I BUTTERFLYING LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH! No wait, not just this book but the entire trilogy. Slammed was my second Colleen Hoover book and I know I'm late since a lot probably have read it but I did plan on reading the books. I just had Maybe Someday first in my hands and weeks later, I was finally able to own all the books in this trilogy so I flew through the pages and dive right into the story. Everything was just well done and I wasn't disappointed by a bit. In Slammed, I felt my heart break a hundred times; in Point of Retreat, my heart broke and shed both happy and sad tears; in This Girl, I've laughed, smiled and shed tears again, but this time they're happy tears. Just thinking about the epilogue makes me cry.

Slam poetry is one thing you cannot not love when you're reading the books. It's one of the reasons strong feelings are evoked from the reader because the characters also pour out their strongest feelings, whether bad or good, when doing a slam poetry.

Very beautiful trilogy and I couldn't ask for a better ending. Every teardrop was worth it.

My Rating

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Book Review: Dearest Clementine by Lex Martin

Title: Dearest Clementine
Series: Dearest, #1
Author: Lex Martin
Publication Date: May 25, 2014
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary
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Twenty-year-old Clementine Avery doesn't mind being called bitchy and closed off. It's safe, and after being burned by her high school sweetheart and stalked by a professor her freshman year of college, safe sounds pretty damn good.

Her number one rule for survival? No dating. That is until she accidentally signs up for a romance writing class and needs material for her latest assignment. Sexy RA Gavin Murphy is more than happy to play the part of book boyfriend to help Clem find some inspiration, even if that means making out...in the name of research, of course.

As Gavin and Clem grow closer, they get entangled in the mystery surrounding a missing Boston University student, and Clem unwittingly becomes a possible target. Gavin tries to show Clem she can handle falling in love again, but she knows she has to be careful because her heart’s at stake…and maybe even her life.

My Thoughts

One word for this books: adorable. It's many things other than adorable actually, but the whole time Gavin and Clementine are together, I can't help but feel mush all over even though romance wasn't over the top, which is good. There's humor and drama but it still comes in full circle on the word, adorable. Clementine and her friends were fun to read and you can't help but want to have friends like hers.

I like Clementine's character and her passion for writing. I love whenever she talks about it and when she also talks about her book and how she's one successful young author under another name. Though she's keeping that one a secret. With all the writing, book stuff and other things going on her life, she doesn't want to get involved with someone. Until Gavin stepped in and just in time that she needs an inspiration. They're fun together and they're both smart. But when their relationship turned into a different route, I can't help but feel sad for Clementine. I wanted to get angry at Gavin, but when he explained, everything made sense. I love them and I love that they share their laughs, it's beautiful to read.

Dearest Clementine brought me warm fuzzy feelings because of friendship and the sibling relationship between Jax and Clementine. It also brought a big smile on my face every time there's a Gavin-Clementine moment going on, and I can't stop it. I like the fact that I was unable to predict what was going to happen next and how things slowly unwraps. Great read and I'm all too happy with the satisfying ending.

And yay to the FRIENDS reference, the mention of Ross and Rachel's "we were on a break" phase was hilarious.


My Rating:

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Book Review: Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover

Title: Maybe Someday
Author: Colleen Hoover
Publication Date: March 18, 2014
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary
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At twenty-two years old, aspiring musician Sydney Blake has a great life: She’s in college, working a steady job, in love with her wonderful boyfriend, Hunter, and rooming with her good friend, Tori. But everything changes when she discovers Hunter cheating on her with Tori—and she is left trying to decide what to do next.

Sydney becomes captivated by her mysterious neighbor, Ridge Lawson. She can’t take her eyes off him or stop listening to the daily guitar playing he does out on his balcony. She can feel the harmony and vibrations in his music. And there’s something about Sydney that Ridge can’t ignore, either: He seems to have finally found his muse. When their inevitable encounter happens, they soon find themselves needing each other in more ways than one..

My Thoughts

My first Colleen Hoover book and it's so beautiful. This was one of my anticipated releases of 2014. I had Hopeless in my TBR first but it was a series so I decided to give this one first a try since it's only a stand-alone. And I just fell in love with it.

Plot

I love how music was a big part of this book and how it was emphasized by the two main characters. It was like it's the connection they use since Ridge is deaf and it's hard for him to communicate with other people, especially when writing songs with Sydney. Whenever he listens to her heartbeat though, it's sweet and emotional at the same time. The angst was so heavy as well that it made me put the book down time after time to regain myself. But it's good, really good and you can feel the pain of the characters that it's almost impossible to stop reading, despite the hurt. The ending was really sweet and I cried (not that I didn't cry at some moments in this book).

Characters

I like Sydney and all throughout I feel bad for her, but I do love her determination and her love for music. Ridge was a bit complicated to understand because he's this sweet and nice guy but he's just so in love with his girlfriend, Maggie, that the love in their relationship is getting too much. Maggie's a wonderful girl and I like the fact that she's mature to think about her and Ridge's relationship and made him open his eyes because Ridge seemed to think that he's so in love with her yet it's like she's trapped in some kind of love cage and she wants to be free. I didn't like Warren and Bridgette at first, Ridge's friends, because they seem to treat Sydney as if she's disabled and the reason for the problems  Maggie and Ridge were facing. But in the end, they did realize they were wrong and were there for Sydney when no one was there for her and that was something I like about how a friendship grew between them.

Conclusion

A heartwarming book yet at the same time, it made my heart ache. I'd reread it though. Even if with the heavy angst and the painful moments and the tears, I'd read it again. Beautiful book and I'm now looking forward to read and enjoy Colleen Hoover's other books. I just can't wholeheartedly give this book 5 stars because Ridge's love for Maggie was a bit too much for my taste. Even if he did it because he's concerned for her but at some point, I think he needs to let her breathe. But overall, I still love the book.

My Rating:

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Book Review: This Is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith

Title: This Is What Happy Looks Like
Author: Jennifer E. Smith
Publication Date: April 02, 2013
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
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When teenage movie star Graham Larkin accidentally sends small town girl Ellie O'Neill an email about his pet pig, the two seventeen-year-olds strike up a witty and unforgettable correspondence, discussing everything under the sun, except for their names or backgrounds.

Then Graham finds out that Ellie's Maine hometown is the perfect location for his latest film, and he decides to take their relationship from online to in-person. But can a star as famous as Graham really start a relationship with an ordinary girl like Ellie? And why does Ellie want to avoid the media's spotlight at all costs?

My Thoughts

This was my first Jennifer E. Smith book even though I picked up The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight first. This, somehow, got my attention more than TSPOLAFS and I must say that I found this really adorable with all the e-mail conversations.

Plot

One word: adorable. I like the "accidentally sent e-mail" concept and as their e-mail conversation goes on, the two characters have built something close to friendship and the more they exchange e-mails, they got to know each other without revealing their real selves but felt a bit of comfort in each other's presence through technology. The relationships in this book was a bit complicated because Ellie's mom hides a secret regarding Ellie's dad and her pride seemed to rule over her because she doesn't want help from him, even though he very much liked to get in touch with his daughter and spend time with her. Quinn and Ellie's friendship was..unstable. There wasn't much of it and at the beginning of the book, you can tell that these two share a deep bond as friends. But due to some misunderstanding, it got shattered and even if they were trying to mend their broken friendship, it wasn't talked much and I think it's sad. They hardly had interaction until the book ended. And Ellie's relationship with her dad was just sad. She was so close to meeting her but nothing. Nothing happened. It would have been nice if they got to talk because that was what Ellie tried hard to do, even if her mom forbid it.

Characters

It's as if holding a secret is a trend between the characters. Ellie and her secret father that she never knew and Graham with his secret identity as an actor that Ellie also never knew, until they met. Graham is a sweet guy and I wished there was more depth of him as a son because his relationship with his parents wasn't highlighted much after everything he described about them. I think his parents are nice, just wished there was more of them. I'm struggling to like Ellie's mom because of her "we don't need your father and we don't need his money, we can stand on our own and we just don't need him and you're not allowed to see or know him" attitude. Ellie's nice but I don't have much to say about her. Though I like how she wants to patch things up with people she has problems with and tries hard to make it work. And her understanding nature when it comes to Graham's job.

Conclusion

I love the book but I don't consider it as a favorite because there were things that weren't polished enough. But I do love reading Graham and Ellie's e-mails over and over and their adventures.


My Rating:

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Book Review: This Time Around by Ellie Grace

Title: This Time Around
Author: Ellie Grace
Publication Date: July 15, 2013
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary
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Nora Montgomery left home and heartbreak behind in South Carolina when she moved to New York City after her high school graduation. Now, four years later, she returns home and is forced to confront the past she left behind and the reckless boy who broke her heart. It’s not long before the pieces of her past begin to blur with the present and she realizes that the feelings she had for her first love never really went away. As old dreams resurface and new truths come to light, she begins to question the future she's always planned on.

Jake Harris has spent four years regretting the night he let her get away. When she finally reappears in his life, he is determined to win her back and prove how much he’s changed. She might never forgive him for that night, but if he tells her the truth about what really happened it will shatter the world she thought she knew. If he doesn’t, he might not get a second chance. He’s already lost her once and he won’t lose her again.

They come from two different worlds that are threatening to tear them apart…can they make it this time around?

My Thoughts

Short but really sweet and cute..and hot. I love the fact that I've read another friends-to-lovers couple in the NA category. Not the abrupt kind of love at first sight but the 'friends first' kind and to the next level.

Plot

The romance was filled with cheese but the kind of cheese that I'd go for. I love reading childhood friends love stories although they met in high school but that was still a long way back for the characters. The mid-plot was a bit..chaotic (not in a bad way!) but the situation was saved and it was all good in the end. Very good, actually.

Characters

I love the characters especially Nora. And her BFF, Susie with darling boyfriend Ethan. Of course, Jake's also a sweetheart and his parents are such heart-warming people. Gotta admit, I love Nora's grandma. She's cool and as sweet as her granddaughter. Nora's parents though, I somehow wished they had more screentime. I didn't like her dad at first but he totally did a 180 and, I kind of teared up during Nora's confrontation with him. I didn't have major problems with the characters, which I'm thankful for. Although Ethan's cousin was such a pain, Nora was very good at handling her. Claps for you, my dear.

Conclusion

I wish there was more! The ending was really romantic and, overall it's good. Totally a recommend to the ones who love to read romance and are fond of childhood friends turned to lovers stories.

My Rating:

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Book Review: Dirty Little Secret by Jennifer Echols

Title: Dirty Little Secret
Author: Jennifer Echols
Publication Date: July 06, 2013
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
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Bailey wasn’t always a wild child and the black sheep of her family. She used to play fiddle and tour the music circuit with her sister, Julie, who sang and played guitar. That ended when country music execs swooped in and signed Julie to a solo deal. Never mind that Julie and Bailey were a duet, or that Bailey was their songwriter. The music scouts wanted only Julie, and their parents were content to sit by and let her fulfill her dreams while Bailey’s were hushed away.

Bailey has tried to numb the pain and disappointment over what could have been. And as Julie’s debut album is set to hit the charts, her parents get fed up with Bailey’s antics and ship her off to granddad’s house in Nashville. Playing fiddle in washed-up tribute groups at the mall, Bailey meets Sam, a handsome and oh-so-persuasive guitarist with his own band. He knows Bailey’s fiddle playing is just the thing his band needs to break into the industry. But this life has broken Bailey’s heart once before. She isn’t sure she’s ready to let Sam take her there again.

My Thoughts

This was my first Jennifer Echols' book and I did have a bit of a high expectation for this, but sadly, it drained down. There were so many things that went wrong in the story and I absolutely found it hard to like it, even though I didn't lose my hope when the book was about to end. Hope that something will happen and change things but, no. Nothing did.

Plot

The music was a really good addition to the story and it's the only one that lightened my mood. I'm not a big country music fan but I very much enjoyed whenever the characters perform and get lost in the music. But the fighting and Bailey's family were such turn-offs that the story wasn't enjoyable anymore. I didn't like how Bailey was all "okay I'll be there" the moment her mom called that her sister can't go onstage and they need her there to reassure her. Like, what? They (her parents and sister) ignored Bailey, shut her out and the moment things got wrong, they called her? If I was Bailey though, I wouldn't have run there. It was so..stupid. And the romance..was a mess. Such a mess that I wouldn't go into further details because I'm not spoiling.

Characters

I didn't like a single character. Sam was all "we need to get on this gig" and will do anything to do that even if there's a cold war between the band members. Bailey, I don't know about her but she annoyed me and how she just ran to her little sister to help her in the spotlight and said little sister didn't apologize for ignoring her and needing her at the last hour. I hate her parents, her granddad was also a disappointment. Ace and Charlotte, Sam's band members, were complicated and I struggled to like Charlotte because she was a stuck-up jealous ex-girlfriend and kept on saying rude things to Bailey even though she knew full well that Sam was never into her.

Conclusion

A disappointing mess. This could have been so much better if Sam wasn't an overachiever who kept on persisting Bailey to join their band and for once, just asked her what she wanted. I'm sad because these characters could have a bright future in the music industry but the story just ruined them. Plus they could really work on their attitudes.

My Rating:

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Book Review: The Beginning of Everything by Robyn Schneider

Title: The Beginning of Everything
Author: Robyn Schneider
Publication Date: August 27, 2013
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
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Golden boy Ezra Faulkner believes everyone has a tragedy waiting for them—a single encounter after which everything that really matters will happen. His particular tragedy waited until he was primed to lose it all: In one spectacular night, a reckless driver shatters Ezra’s knee, his athletic career, and his social life.

No longer a front-runner for Homecoming King, Ezra finds himself at the table of misfits, where he encounters new girl Cassidy Thorpe. Cassidy is unlike anyone Ezra’s ever met—achingly effortless and fiercely intelligent.

Together, Ezra and Cassidy discover flash mobs, buried treasure, and a poodle that might just be the reincarnation of Jay Gatsby. But as Ezra dives into his new studies, new friendships, and new love, he learns that some people, like books, are easy to misread. And now he must consider: If one’s singular tragedy has already hit, what happens when more misfortune strikes?

My Thoughts

I haven't heard about this book but I saw this from the Booktube Community. The moment I read the premise, it grabbed my attention. Knowing it's YA, contemporary, and from the guy's perspective. I hardly read from the opposite sex's POV when it comes to contemporary so this was somehow fresh for me. But it staled, the moment I finished it and tried absorbing everything that happened. I ended up very unhappy and angry.

Plot

The very common love story, that is even found in fanfictions: Cool and popular guy falls in love with the weird and nerdy girl. It's also another one of those YAs where either of the love interest is "mysterious". Most of the time it's the boy, but this time, it's the girl. After Ezra got cheated on and broke his leg after an accident, I was happy and in hopes he'd find a wonderful future the moment he met Cassidy. They seem to click and they were sweet together. I just don't understand how in one night, things between them went down so fast that my brain didn't even followed up directly. It was like a flash of lightning that turned their happy world upside down and I seriously did not understand at all. The story just didn't work with me. And the premise sounded good and somehow, hopeful.

Characters

Toby, Ezra's best friend or former, was the only one that I find pretty fine. I feel bad for him though, separating from Ezra and being like the laughing stock of his circle of new-and-popular friends. Ezra, the narrator, made me like and dislike him. I don't know how to describe him but as a reader, I can't connect with him at times and some of his choices or decisions rather ended up so poorly that he hurts others and he doesn't notice it (I'm really talking about Toby). But he somehow grew on me and I'm relieved he didn't kiss and gave in to his ex-girlfriend, whom I want to slap, when she tried clawing him with her nails of seduction and flirtation. Cassidy, oh Cassidy, I'm disappointed and annoyed with you the most. She came into Ezra's life, tried befriending him, falls for him, like a darn switch she just rudely left him and when he found her, she told him their relationship was a mistake. And that leaves Ezra being confused because she didn't even explain. She disappeared and when she came back, they talked yet she still gives out another WE-CAN'T-BE-TOGETHER speech again and ended up being a total question mark and simply mean. Oh and yeah, she disappeared. Again. For good. Did I mention question mark?

Conclusion

I don't even have a conclusion. I didn't even expect myself to give this 2 stars. Just that I would like to imagine they had their happy ending or that they'll see each other again because they're really good together and they're both smart and funny when they're within their little love nest. I felt so strongly that they're not over yet. They had to have a beginning after that ending.

My Rating:

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Book Review: Stroke of Fear by Alla Kar

Title: Stroke of Fear
Author: Alla Kar
Publication Date: November 07, 2013
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary
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Sometimes the things you love are the things you fear the most …

Aubrey Depp has already faced death and escaped it once. Now it's back to get her. Once a swimming champion at her high school, Aubrey’s life was taken away when a former swimmer and boyfriend tosses her over a bridge, leaving her for dead.

Now a senior in college, she takes a summer job as a camp counselor with her best friend Cassie and her it’s complicated boyfriend Jake. Then she meets southern heartthrob Tanner Young and her entire summer is flipped upside down. He’s damaged, has a sexy southern drawl and has his eyes set on Aubrey.

She doesn’t mind.

Tanner is damaged, broken and for the first time in a year, feels like he can love again. Aubrey Depp is the one he wants, and he won’t stop until he gets her.

When Aubrey's past comes back to haunt her, Tanner vows to protect Aubrey. Showing her it’s okay to take that Stroke of Fear.

My Thoughts

Aubrey is scared of the water ever since a past incident that even lead her to stay away from something she loved: swimming. When her boyfriend 'teasingly' pushed her off into the water during summer camp, fear bubbled up inside her. To her rescue comes Southern boy, Tanner, who seemed to be first one to know her secrets and the fact that she is capable of swimming and is good at it. What Aubrey doesn't know, someone from her past is stalking and lurking around her in camp.

Fans of romance books, like myself, will enjoy Stroke Of Fear with its mysterious and hot theme but not guaranteed a hundred perfect. As much as I liked Tanner and Aubrey's scenes and their own love story, the way she ended things with Jake was very upsetting which lead me to give this book three stars. It seemed unfair for Jake's part because he wanted to talk to her, he wanted to know what's been bothering her but she doesn't tell him anything and she kept saying their relationship's complicated and they're distant. They've been together for four years yet the moment Tanner appeared, Aubrey somehow fell for him and was willing to tell him everything. Jake's no excuse for a douche like guy, after pushing Aubrey off as a joke, but he did deserve some explanation and a talk with her. Especially after everything that happened in the book, he actually did care for her a lot. Even Tanner noticed it.

I did enjoy the book, aside from that part that put me off. One scene gave me the goosebumps and the story did deliver a bit of mysteriousness. Love the cover, though. It's relevant to the characters, their clothing and the setting.

My Rating:

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