It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey

It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

How come no one told me the hero in this is basically living my Deadliest Catch dreams? *insert nerd noises of me watching Discovery Channel and screaming at the guys that a wave is coming* Honestly, if I had known that about this book it would have bumped up in my TBR a long ago. As it is, I had a tough time picking it up only because I don't have the most stellar relationship with Tessa Bailey but damn if I was going to skip this one after all the hype.

I am glad I didn't skip it because I thoroughly and utterly enjoyed it. It's a story about this completely shameless, but entirely endearing Heiress named Piper Bellinger (which c'mon, I mean I grew up pumping up Paris Hilton since her early days, I am never one to put down this so called "airheads") and this tough-as-nails boat Captain, king crab catcher extraordinaire Brendan Taggart. This is already appealing enough, isn't it?

But wait until you dive in and find that it's hilarious and full of growth and a hero/heroine combo that actually TRY TO BE UNDERSTANDING AND MATURE and I just find that so APPEALING. It was romantic as hell to watch both Piper and Brendan be mature about what the other might be going through without jumping into conclusions and also like, trying to put themselves in each others shoes: THAT'S WHAT I LIKE, AUTHORS; GIMME MORE PLEASE, THANKS.

So basically, me and Tessa Bailey are restored now. I can see our relationship growing steady in the near future. I can't wait for the companion novel to this one actually.



*Note about the sex--> goodness gracious, there is a lot of sex in this, so be prepared (to either read it, or read it through your fingers covering your face, or skip it, whatever is your thing :)

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Review: Cactus Jack A Novel by Brad Smith 🌵 🐎

Cactus Jack: A Novel by Brad Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There is no going wrong with a good, old-fashioned horse novel. Even though, technically, this is not a horse novel. It is about a horse yes—Cactus Jack, a colt born of the greatest horse in the world, who might just be the next best horse in the world now. But it’s also about the past and present of the people around this horse. A band of mismatched characters that come together not-so intentionality to maybe witness the miraculous rise of an underdog.

From Will Masterson, the owner of Cactus Jack to his daughter Billie and everyone in between—Jodie, the ten-year-old neighbor with a soft heart for animals; Clay, the gentle giant/fierce lawyer; Marian, the kickass ex-girlfriend of Will Masterson; and Luke, scoundrel and horse trainer extraordinaire—I enjoyed everyone’s part on the story, their ups and downs and their ultimate redemption.

The pace was great, the drama was plenty. I liked that the intelligence on the characters shone through instead of being stated. And the build-up expectation on Cactus Jack’s performance as a race horse was worth everything. Very well accomplished novel in my opinion, enjoyable for a perfect rainy afternoon.

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Review: Fireworks by Katie Cotugno

Title: Fireworks 
Author: Katie Cotugno
Expected publication: April 18th 2017 
by HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray
GOODREADS / AMAZON 
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I have a love/hate relationship with Katie Cotugno. I love her books but I hate that I do. I hate it because she writes about everything I hate, like love triangles or siblings fighting or best friends falling out and all that stuff that makes me sad.

I don't like that I enjoy everything she writes even though her stories tear me apart. But I keep coming, like a dumb moth to a flame.

I grabbed an ARC of Fireworks as soon as I saw it, without knowing anything about it. Zero knowledge about the story except that it was written about Cotugno and apparently that was enough.

Now onto business. Honestly, I enjoyed every second of this book. From the fact that it was set in the 90's, to the fact that it was about girl bands and boy bands (that makes it larger than life, you know?) it was all so bloody entertaining.

It's been a while since I have been this invested in a story but from the moment I met Dana Cartwright, the heroine*, I was a goner. I loved the girl to bits, I rooted for her every step of the way. She was so well crafted that she felt like a real, live person who shared the same sentiments of self-doubt and fear that I felt--that everyone feels at eighteen.

But like every time I invest myself on a Katie Cotugno story, I got my heart broken again. Yes, I did. But somehow it's starting to feel less like a painful hole in my chest and more like learning. 

This book was amazing, I swear. I don't even know what I can say (that I haven't already) to make you try it. It has the perfect amount of living the dream and staying grounded, of friends and enemies, of love and heartbreak. I loved every second and I hope you do too.

*Heroine indeed. I would have kicked something in a rage induced madness.

Review: Puck (A Twisted Lit Novel) by Kim Askew and Amy Helmes

Title: Puck (A Twisted Lit Novel) 
Author: Kim Askew and Amy Helmes
Expected publication: November 15th 2016 by Doublet Press
GOODREADS . AMAZON
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I was very excited to jump into Puck, the new story on Amy and Kim Shakespeare retellings aka Twisted Lit series. I'm glad to inform that I wasn't disappointed.

Puck as you'd expect, is a really good heroine. She's had a tough life, and it has made her maybe a bit too cynical. But she was still likable, and it might have to do with her awesome sense of humor.

The story revolves around a group of misfits thrown into the wild mountains of Utah for a rehabilitation camp of sorts. As you could imagine, Puck was very wary of everyone, maybe I was a little bit too, but it took less than a quarter of the story for me to see so many good qualities in the group that I ended up loving every single one of those guys.

There is a twist in there that I don't think I saw coming even though in retrospective I think I should have. But that's the thing about this retellings, they are much than that you forget you already are supposed to know the story.

The only thing that semi-bothered me about it was that Puck's relationship with Paula, her foster mom, wasn't as explored as I would have liked. It would have been great to glimpse a little bit more about their relationship and how it grew to the state it is in now. Because it is quite refreshing (and hopeful) to meet a good foster mom. 

But all in all I really enjoyed the book. The parts where Puck was in the camp were all very entertaining and sometimes laugh out loud funny. Puck was a satisfying read after the long wait. :)

Review: Conspiracy Girl by Sarah Alderson

Title:  Conspiracy Girl 
Author: Sarah Alderson
Published February 12th 2015 by Simon & Schuster
Goodreads .  Amazon
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Why didn’t I know about this book sooner? Was my first thought upon finishing Conspiracy Girl by Sarah Alderson. It was that amazing.

Honestly it was action-packed and the pace was neck-breaking. It even starts right away with a break in, one that happens to be in the bunker-style apartment of Nic, a girl who was the lone survivor of a horrific crime where her mother and stepsister were murdered. And not even in the next chapter we are introduced to the conflict. Now Nic has to trust Finn—the same young computer genius that is responsible her mother’s murderers walked free—to help her figure out who is following her and what do they want. What this ensures is an awkward, uncomfortable but very, very interesting story development.

The mystery/thriller aspect of this book is also awesome, though I did figure out what was happening, in no way did it deter me from reading along excitedly. Mostly because the main characters, Nic and Finn were so likable.

I loved Nic’s confidence and her strong willed nature. She had a horrible family tragedy but she still worked to move on one step at the time. And her relationship with her dog Goz was the cutest.

And then Finn was dreamy too. He is not only a genius but a good-hearted one that wants to make the world better and safer. His relationship with his grandma and his nieces was also so charming and adorable.

What I loved the most about this book was that it is so young-adult feel, but yet is not. What I mean is that it has the essence of the awesomeness that is the YA genre even though the ages of the characters don't match people's assumption of YA, and not to mention there is not a high school in sight. *Claps*

I would recommend the book to everyone honestly, but especially to those who love thrillers, well-crafted and lovable characters, and fast-paced stories. This one is a must re-read for sure! 

Review: A Walk In The Sun by Michelle Zink

Title. A Walk In The Sun Author. Michelle ZinkExpected publication: May 3rd 2016 by HarperTeen[ goodreads ] [ amazon ]___________________________________________

What I loved about A Walk In The Sun is that it transported me to another place, and I don't mean only to a hard-lived, sun-kissed farm; but to the thrill of being young and in love. It's the story about a girl with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Rose's mom just died and her dad is in such a depression that she has to take over all the chores at their farm, all by herself.

That's how she meets Bodhi, the recently hired hand that's going to help her run the farm this summer.

And that's where the similarities with those Harlequin novels you're thinking about, end because this is not a story about the rich daughter of the boss falling for the working class guy. This is more about finding love when (and where) you didn't expect it.

A Walk In The Sun did a fantastic job at portraying the hardships of loss and death and sadness, but also at reminding you that there are always new beginnings. A story for those who love the hard beautiful farm life, and the hard beautiful romance of first love.

Review. The Shadow Queen (Ravenspire #1) by C.J. Redwine

Title. The Shadow Queen (Ravenspire #1) Author. C.J. RedwineExpected publication: February 16th 2016 by Balzer + Bray[ goodreads ]  [ amazon ]________________________________

Though fantasy is not my thing, The Shadow Queen proved what I've always known but sometimes need a reminder of, a good book is always entertaining, no matter the genre. And The Shadow Queen definitely was.

I loved the story. Yeah, I know it's supposed to be a retelling of Snow White but what I liked about it was that it was also original and unexpected. I swear I wasn't reading the same story I knew as a kid, even though I was, it was new.

The author added a lot of new layers to the story, like our MC possessing magic just like the wicked witch. And our hero being half dragon, which absolutely rocked.

The characters were awesome. Each of them have all the qualities a good character should have, honest and awesome. I loved everyone, even the annoying wicked witch, she was very well crafted to make you believe she wasn't just evil, but misunderstood and angry. It all made sense.

The world building was very good, I could paint a perfect picture of the setting. It added a lot to the sense of Magic the whole story transmitted. And I would honestly think (even if I am no way an authority in Fantasy) that the Shadow Queen is going to be a hit this year.

ps. How awesome is the author's last name?

pps. I'm not sure about it being a series, I thought it ended perfectly! No cliffhanger, no need to take it somewhere else, but well let's see.

Review: Truest by Jackie Lea Sommers

Title: Truest Author: Jackie Lea SommersPublished September 1st 2015 by Katherine Tegen BooksADD ON GOODREADSYA Contemporary, Romance, Mental Illness

 Truest was deep, and contradictory, and philosophical, and I don't think I have ever read a YA book with as many metaphysical dilemmas. So it´s safe to say I loved it.

I don't know what I was expecting because the summary does not share much, so I dove in practically blind. Turns out it's the story of small town girl, West, and her summer before senior year of high school, when she meets newcomers, the Hart twins.

The Hart twins are not only new to town, they are different, they are attractive and mysterious and West can't help her curiosity. She ends up befriending Silas first, and through her friendship with him she realizes something is not right with his sister, Laurel.

Laurel. She is kind of Don Quixote. Reminds me of a story in the Bible, in Acts 26, when King Festus says to Paul, "Paul, many letters turn thee to madness." Laurel read so much when she was a young kid that know she has a rare syndrome that makes it impossible to differentiate if she is living real life or a dream. And believe me, it is more dangerous and complicated than it sounds.

I really liked the whole philosophical aspect of the book. My heart swelled for Laurel and her confusion and sadness. What I didn't like was the way Silas and West's relationship started. I mean, I didn't like that West stayed with her previous boyfriend, Elliot, even when she started having feelings for Silas. I thought that was low and mean. But I did think Silas and West made a great couple, if only Elliot's feelings could have been spared it would all have been perfect.

And the saddest thing, was Whit's story. It was short, he is not in the book much but oh my, did that poor boy had it bad. I was almost in tears by the end when the unexpected thing happens and I thought it would destroy him.

So anyway. It was a well rounded, interesting story. It stepped away from the cookie cutter romance and introduced me to a world of analytical thinking.

Review: The One Thing by Marci Lyn Curtis

Title: The One Thing 
Author: Marci Lyn Curtis
Expected publication: September 8th 2015 by Disney-Hyperion
From Goodreads: 

Maggie Sanders might be blind, but she won't invite anyone to her pity party. Ever since losing her sight six months ago, Maggie's rebellious streak has taken on a life of its own, culminating with an elaborate school prank. Maggie called it genius. The judge called it illegal.
Now Maggie has a probation officer. But she isn't interested in rehabilitation, not when she's still mourning the loss of her professional-soccer dreams, and furious at her so-called friends, who lost interest in her as soon as she could no longer lead the team to victory.
Then Maggie's whole world is turned upside down. Somehow, incredibly, she can see again. But only one person: Ben, a precocious ten-year-old unlike anyone she's ever met.Ben's life isn't easy, but he doesn't see limits, only possibilities. After awhile, Maggie starts to realize that losing her sight doesn't have to mean losing everything she dreamed of. Even if what she's currently dreaming of is Mason Milton, the infuriatingly attractive lead singer of Maggie's new favorite band, who just happens to be Ben's brother.
But when she learns the real reason she can see Ben, Maggie must find the courage to face a once-unimaginable future... before she loses everything she has grown to love.

So what's your thing? The One Thing that makes you the happiest?
Mine is easy, it would be reading amazing books. And I am thrilled to inform you that this is one of them.

I had the most magical experience reading this novel. I don't even know what to say about it right now so I don't spoil it for everyone else, just that it was fabulous. I mean is not everyday you find a book that is mainly focused on the relationship between a seventeen year old blind girl and a semi-paralyzed ten year old boy. That alone makes me want to grab the book and read it again, to remind myself of how incredibly beautiful and funny and heartbreaking and uplifting it was.

To me, it is Maggie and Ben's relationship that completely made the book. They were the best pair of mismatched friends I have ever read. But that's not to say I didn't appreciate, and LOVED other aspects of the book. Like Maggie's grandpa, Gramps, who takes her granddaughter to Target and then abandons her at the Feminine Products aisle and talks to her about his swollen prostate. And Ben's mom, who welcomes strangers to her home with bear hugs and saves stray animals. And of course, Ben's brother Mason, lead singer of Maggie's favorite band, reformed bad boy and Ben's biggest cheerleader.

I loved everything about this book that even now writing this makes me want to go back and read it again. If only just for Ben, and his incredibly bright soul, his awkward question and his larger than life personality. He calls Maggie his girlfriend the first time he meets her, he was a ten in my eyes right in that moment. And Maggie, with her dark humor and sarcastic personality that doesn't hide her soft heart and her struggle to cope with her new vulnerability. She went from soccer goddess to a friendless blind kid. My heart swelled for her. That's why my favorite part was the first half, when Ben and Maggie's friendship blossoms.

The second half was harder. If only because of it deals with all the difficult issues that were swept under the rug before. Especially the twist. I found it hard to understand both Maggie and Mason's reactions after that, but I guess I wouldn't know what to make about it either.

In the end I think this was an excellent read. I haven't been so enthralled in a novel in months, and this one awoke me and shook me and practically kicked me out of my reading stupor and reminded me that YA is full of magical surprises.

Review: Emmy & Oliver by Robin Benway

Title: Emmy & Oliver 
Author: Robin Benway
Expected publication: June 23rd 2015 by HarperTeen
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary, drama
Goodreads | Amazon | The Book Depo

 According to my goodreads account, I have been waiting for this novel for almost two years. Two years of anticipation that built up a lot of expectations. And to be totally honest, this novel did not disappoint.

Emmy & Oliver is about two childhood friends reunited ten years after Oliver was kidnapped by his father. If that isn't enough to catch your attention I don't know what you're doing reading this. It was an emotional roller coaster, there's no other way to describe it.

Robin did an amazing job at capturing what each of the characters went through because of this horrible experience. Which made me connect with everyone in the book and really see the reasoning behind their actions. I absolutely loved that this book doesn't tell you how to feel but instead questions your feelings. It reminds you that the world is not black or white but shades of gray.

Despite you would expect this book to be about Oliver, he is the one who was kidnapped after all, it is so much about Emmy too. Everything she went through and how that shaped who she is now. I loved Emmy, she to me was the strongest character. Apart from Maureen, Oliver's mom, who is reminiscent of Michelle Pfeiffer in The Deep End of the Ocean (this film is a jewel, you should see it ASAP) just as heartbreaking and fierce at the same time.

And I just don't think it is appropriate to continue trying to explain this book because it won't do it justice. Every YA Contemporary fan should experience this one for themselves.

Review: My Best Everything by Sarah Tomp

Title: My Best Everything 
Author: Sarah Tomp
Young Adult Contemporary
Published March 3rd 2015 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Goodreads | Amazon | The Book Depository
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Unexpected. Brilliant. There are quite a few adjectives that come to mind after reading 'My Best Everything' but I don't plan on writing them all and use all my space. Instead I want to tell you how amazing this story will make you feel.

Lulu's idea of selling moonshine to furnish her way to college. She is a smart girl in a small town; we've seen it before, right? Not like this. Never like this. Because Lulu is about to find out she is smart, but not in the way she always thought.

So she enlists the help of her best friend Roni and her boyfriend Bucky, who she has known all her life, and of course the mysterious, older bad boy Mason. And it all goes downhill from here (or uphill, depending on how you see it) because you can't predict the future, just like you can't predict if moonshine is going to turn out to be poison. It's a ride.

I loved this book. So much heart, so poetic and emotional. But funny and charming, too. A thrill ride.

I can't tell you enough good things about this book. Suddenly I couldn't handle all the feels and I was back to that place I love about YA. If I were you I wouldn't worry of where I am going right now, as long as I have this book with me.

Review: Rites Of Passage by Joy N. Hensley

Title: Rites Of Passage
Author: Joy N. Hensley
Genre: Contemporary Young Adult
Expected publication: September 9th 2014 by Harper Teen
Goodreads | Amazon |
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I was absolutely thrilled to be reading Rites of Passage. A story about a girl in a previously all-boys military academy? Hmm yes, I'd take it.

I always knew life in a military academy would not be an easy feat but man, did Ms. Hensley crafted it to perfection! It was almost as if I was living the hell alongside this girl and the rest of the newcomer boys. I am amazed at the amount of discipline all these young adults have and I have gained a whole new respect for the people who train all their lives to defend freedom.

And not only that but the autor definitely added a new dimension to the story by making some of the kids "military brats" or children of military parents. Their combination of pride and despair, the constant worry, wanting to belong and wanting to reach their parents expectations, it was all heartwarming and wonderful. My heart seriously ached for all these kids that live and breathe patriotism. I thought it was a marvelous job, making all those sentiments come across.

And then there was Sam, our protagonist. Sam whose mental and physical strength is inspirational. You better bet I literally cheer her on in her hellish way. My imaginary hat is off for you, Sam. And all your recruit buddies with a big heart, and most of all, your amazing Drill Sergeant, who stood up for anyone who deserved it and was fair and kindhearted, just what the military needs from its people.

My only complain, if I have one, is that at times it seemed a bit confusing. I don't know if it had to do with my complete lack of military knowledge but sometimes I just didn't understand a lot of the actions or even the rules. And I certainly was ticked off by the sort of abrupt ending, but I am hoping that is because a sequel is in the works. I would really like that.

All I can say is that it was an amazing story and very hard to put down. It totally immerses you into a life of dedication and discipline, and not only that but it provides nail-bitting action and a swoony, star-crossed romance that unfortunately left me high and dry. ): I WANT MY SEQUEL, PRETTY PLEASE?

 

 

 

Review: On The Fence by Kasie West

Title: On The Fence 
Author:Kasie  West
Expected publication: July 1st 2014 by HarperTeen
Genre: YA contemporary
Goodreads | Amazon |
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I am completely in love with Kasie West and her ability to write the most adorable stories. So far I have loved every single one of the books she has ever put out. So I was beyond curious to see if she would do it again, and she totally did!

On The Fence delivered. It was a cute story that went beyond fluffy, summery writing but still didn't take itself too seriously. It featured West's now signature style of amazing, relatable heroines and a supporting cast that was more than just added secondary characters, to the point that you learned everyone's name and cared for their individual stories.

I loved Charlie. She was the strongest of the whole book to me, just so easy to like and her point of view made the book completely captivating and hilarious. I loved the dynamics between her and her brothers. They made one of the cutest sibling relationships I have ever read. And I love that Charlie was going through a lot of self doubt but she was still confident in what she loved, like sports and hanging out with the guys and not one of those insecure, whiny girls that wonder why the world doesn't love them. She definitely strung at my heart cords because I have also felt insecure about how I look, much like her I am tall and even though I am no jock I hit the gym often and I sometimes feel so big standing beside all my petite friends; and all this only made me feel more connected to her and her story.

And I loved each of her brothers and their different personalities too. And of course her dad was a sweetheart so I loved each time he awkwardly tried to teach Charlie any girl stuff, it was hysterical. And don't get me started on Braden, who was just so perfect with how he wanted Charlie to be with someone who appreciated who she really was. Le sigh.

The story with Charlie's mom was an unexpected depth that added a lot to an otherwise cute story, I really liked that. But don't think this book isn't hilarious too, it is! It has been reaffirmed that West has joined my list of Contemporary queens. Loved it.

Review: Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover

Title: Maybe Someday
Author: Colleen Hoover
Published March 18th 2014 by Atria Books
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary
Goodreads | Amazon |
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 I didn't know what to expect when I started Maybe Someday. It's because I've heard some much and yet so little about it, for the various reviews I knew it was great but I also didn't really know anything about the story that went on. It was a leap of faith.

I'm glad I took it because it paid off. The whole aspect of the book is that it combines musicality with prose. A new way of enjoying a story. I made sure I could listen to the songs at the same time I read the book so I could have the whole experience. And it added so much! It felt even more intense even though I tell you, the book was intense enough without the heartbreak of the songs.

I am a fan of contemporary lit and I have pretty much reading anything and everything yet I didn't expect that particular thing with the male protagonist, not in a book where music plays such an important part. But it made the whole thing seem deeper and more beautiful that I could have hoped.

I adored the story and the plot. I liked the characters well enough to invest my emotions in their lives, however I was a bit uncomfortable with the, I don't want to say cheating but it kind of is, that goes on. Sydney and Ridge made so much sense as a couple that I didn't really think there was a need to be put in a situation like that, but I guess that's real life for you. But it really bothered me and made me lose a little faith on these characters.

Some scenes were so completely perfect and beautiful, and the writing was fabulous, my only concern was that I didn't really buy the romance. Because the whole thing wasn't fair to Ridge's girlfriend and because Sydney knew how that felt and still kept on going, despite her conflicted feelings. That's the only thing that ruins the book for me.

I have to say I enjoyed it anyway. Specially the songs. And the emotions they evoked in me and how perfectly the fit in the story.

 

 

 

Review: Heartbeat by Elizabeth Scott

Title: Heartbeat
Author: Elizabeth Scott
Published January 28th 2014 by Harlequin Teen
Goodreads | Amazon
Contemporary Young Adult Fiction
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Heartbeat was my first experience with a book by Elizabeth Scott. I am kind of ashamed of myself for never trying out anything by her because I absolutely loved her newest story Heartbeat.

I was super excited to read this book because I’ve never read something quite like this before. I mean you hear of “issue” books but it’s not often that said issue is having to deal with an unborn baby alive inside of your brain-dead mother’s uterus. I know, I know, you can say whatever you think it’s right and we can definitely argue about our opinions but when you have a relationship like the one Emma and her mother had, the decision is way more difficult than you would think.

I got Emma, I really did. I don’t think there’s another human being I love more than my mother, and what happens to Emma is so terrible I understood perfectly was she was so angry and confused and I couldn’t judge her or blame her. I just let her be herself.

However, everything was so ridiculously heartbreaking that I didn’t know who to feel most sorry for; Emma with her dead mother or Dan with the decision to save the baby at all costs, and of course, Caleb and the tragic story of his sister and his own relationship (or lack thereof) with his parents.

The important thing though, is that no matter how depressing a life can get, this book talks about finding hope in the unexpected, and seeking solace in the arms of the ones that were always there too. And Scott did a marvelous job in making me believe that these people really did get that, and not only said things to wrap up the book nicely. Very moving story that made me reconsider the side I thought I stood on my whole life.

 

Review: Anyone But You: A Modern-Day Spin on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet by Kim Askew and Amy Helmes

Title: Anyone But You:  A Modern-Day Spin on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet 
Authors: Kim Askew and Amy Helmes
Published January 1st 2014 by Merit Press
Goodreads | Amazon | The Book Depository
Genre: Young Adult // Retelling // Contemporary
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Today, January 7^th, 2014, was the coldest day in my memory, yet my heart has been warmed as I read along the story within the pages of Anyone But You. Anyone But You is based of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, which gave me an idea of what to expect. But sincerely, I can tell you that you won’t expect the kind of delightful story of two Italian families’ long history of managing restaurants and hating each other.

There are two stories intertwining in this book. One about Gigi Caputo and Roman Monte, who are two teens that have fallen in love despite their families complete despise of each other. I liked this story, Gigi was a reliable and likable young heroine and Roman was as swoon-worthy as they come. And although I am not crazy about instalove (actually, I almost always hate it), this time it was more than tolerable because every interaction between Gigi and Roman was sweet and adorable.

Now, the other story, the one about this kids great-grandfathers is one that I am sure will stay with me for a long time. Because this story was both heart-warming and heartbreaking and I cannot even think back to it without both smiling and spilling tears. I am absolutely certain that I had never felt more feelings within such a short span of time. I fell in love with Nick Caputo and Benny Monte as much as one person can possibly can. I love them both individually and I love their friendship too. I laughed and rejoice and suffered throughout all their story and I think I am permanently scarred upon finishing it. And mostly because there is nothing I would have done differently, because Kim and Amy did an exceptional job at making me understand from where they were coming from and to love them as they are.

And just like before, with Kim Askew & Amy Helmes’ previous book that I read, I am marveled at the way they can project a story and make it come to life with so much clarity before my eyes. I am stunned to see the glorious picture they created in my mind, it’s like a movie, actually better than a movie. (I couldn’t help but picture the young Nick and Benny looking as dazzlingly vitality as my boyfriend, Ryan Gosling in The Notebook). 

So really, I have nothing but good to say about this book. I wish I could relive Nick and Benny’s story again and again even though it causes me endless pain and heartbreak but I actually want to go through again because it is just too precious. 

Review: Crash Into You by Katie McGarry

Title: Crash Into You
Author: Katie McGarry
Publication: November 26th 2013 by Harlequin Teen
Goodreads | Amazon

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I know I haven’t been the most forgiving reviewer on this book’s past sister novels. But nevertheless, I find it really sad that the series is ending and that this might be the last we see of these characters. However, I loved that Crash Into You was the book chosen to wrap things up because to me it was the best of the series.

Seriously, as I read along, I found it hard not to invest myself in the story. Isaiah might not have had my attention back in Pushing The Limits or Dare You To but he completely won me over when telling his story. He’s got a tough exterior and might seem scary or threatening but he is one sweet boy on the inside. I liked that he was loyal and strong and at the same time really vulnerable too.

Then we had Rachel, who suffers panic attacks and I don’t know if it is because I’m currently taking Psychiatry or because I’m naturally so empathetic (and apparently, humble too) but my heart immediately warmed for her story. I can see why she developed her disorder and I was seriously mad at her family for treating her that way.

But then, Rachel also pissed me off sometimes. Like, why couldn’t she figure out a way to get the money? Why did she have to let poor Isaiah carry the entire burden even though he practically lives in the streets and has nothing?! And then she goes questioning his love for her. However, I ended up giving her a pass ‘cause she isn’t the most reliable mind in the ward so to speak.

But then Isaiah was wonderful and it lightened up the whole book for me. He is strong-minded and loyal and caring even though he grew up being the “weakest” link in the chain. But now he’s out there making the world a faster place and my heart thanks him for that. That’s the magic you guys, that even though tattoos, shaved heads and earrings on guys don’t do it for me, Katie McGarry made me fall for one guy that features all those three.

Sincerely, I can say that of all the books in the series, this is the one that did it for me more tan the others, but I still would recommend the whole series.

 

Review: How Zoe Made Her Dreams (Mostly) Come True by Sarah Strohmeyer

Title: How Zoe Made Her Dreams (Mostly) Come True
Author: Sarah Strohmeyer
Published April 23rd 2013 by Balzer + Bray
Goodreads / Amazon
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I was super excited to get my clean hands on this book. Honestly, it's pegged as The Devil Wears Prada meets Disney?... SAY WHAT?!

So I started this book as soon as I got it, and let me tell you, I didn't stop reading until it was over. Because HZMHD(M)CT is amazing! Such a cute, entertaining read that magically transports you to a fairyland.

Everything is included, charming princes, bitchy princesses, wicked witches, and funny furries. I loved the book's premise, a girl intering in one of the most famous theme-parks in the country, forced to play assistant to the evil queen/manager of the park. And let me tell you, Miranda Presley has nothing on this Queen! she makes Zoe feed caviar to her dog, prepare her breakfast, play cinderella in one unfortunate ocassion (Le Spastic anyone?) and play Red Riding Hood several times too.

 

 

 

I loved Zoe for all the right reasons. She was a hot mess and she kept me entertained, I was laughing so hard at all the situations she was put in (and sometimes she even put herself there). But she was awesome, and girlfriend, I wish you'd be my bestie so we could hang out and you could be your selfless self and nominate me for the Dream & Do grant ;).

 

There's also our Hottie McHot-A-Lot, Ian Davidson. I loved Ian too, he was truly a prince and I fell in love with him despite his seriously bad puns (that boy has to start learning new jokes).

 

The whole world building had me wishing I could work at a theme park too, even though it sounds exhausting and (if they make you an animal and you have to wear a furry costume) gross but I love children and magic so yeah I think I could handle it. Although not as well as Zoe, who I cheered on during the whole book and girlfriend didn't dissapoint.

 

Sarah Strohmeyer also didn't dissapoint, she gave us an splendid ending that I absolutely loved and adored. I wish she would write a sequel with Zoe and Ian as RAs this time around.

 

Kudos, Sarah! You knocked it out of the park!

Review: When You Were Here by Daisy Whitney

Title: When You Were Here 
Author: Daisy Whitney
Expected publication: June 4th 2013 by Little, Brown
Goodreads / Amazon
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I always feel awkward when I review books (which is very unfortunate since that’s what I do) but this time I feel especially inadequate. Because this book was beautiful and heartfelt and all I could think about was: WHAT KIND OF CANCER DOES ELIZABETH HAVE?

Really. My mind couldn’t stop swimming around all the possibilities and the possible treatments, and then I was just like; tea that cures cancer?! BS!

Yeah, not my classiest moment but sometimes I get carried away because I want everyone to win against cancer and I want to do everything possible and use ever single drug that’s been proven works.

I couldn’t concentrate, I couldn’t stop thinking what they could have done to save Elizabeth. I was a mess of feelings but not for the right reasons I think.

But then, when Danny (Elizabeth’s son) learns about the reason why Holland left him; I stopped, breathed in, and it was like I saw the story with different eyes, a new light was shed over the pages. I started to get the real point of the story.

That’s when my heart started breaking, because when your mom dies, omg I can’t even. Danny’s inconsolable, I was too; cancer’s an awful thing but when the person you love most in the world has it, how are you suppose to function still? I am fortunate enough to have my mom with me (thank God) but I still got Danny’s pain, felt it like it was my own, and grieved right along with him like it was my lost.

Despite all the sadness this book brought to my life (and believe me, it was a lot) there were some awesome aspects to it too. The most amazing of them all was definitely Japan. Now I’ve never been one of those girls obsessed with Japanese stuff, before this book I haven’t even considered ever visiting there, but I had another thing coming because Japan sounds awesome! The Karaoke! All the crazy colors! The fun merchandise! It sounds like I could be one happy gal over there.

 Also, I love boy point of views, and I personally think Daisy Whitney nailed it! I totally believed Danny’s voice, he didn’t seem like he was trying too hard at being all macho and ‘I’m a man, erase all doubt!’, he was teenage-boy-confused not only because his mom just died, or because he is now an orphan, or because the-big-secret-Holland-kept-from-him, it was everything that rolled into a big ball of destruction that crushed the life out of him. The real magic came when we got to see Danny rising from the ashes with the help of a city where dreams come true.

Now it's your turn to fall in love with Tokyo, and with Danny's story; since today's the day When You Were Here is out. Happy book birthday!