Book Blather

Ava is ready for something new. Tired of a wearing black and remaining outside of the social norm, she wants to reinvent who she is. She wants to wear the pink Argyle sweater hidden in her closet. Maybe even date a boy. When she transfers to Billy Hughes School for Academic Excellence she thinks she’s found the perfect opportunity; a place where no one knows her and she can try on a new “Ava”. The only problem? She must hide it from her changes from her parents and her girlfriend, Chloe. They’d never understand her new desires, plus they’re a nice safety net in case her new personality doesn’t work. The thing about secrets is they’re hard to keep and Ava risks everything if her two worlds collide. But as the dust settles Ava will discover who her real friends are…and maybe even a step closer to discovering who she truly is.

The Short of It: Hands down one of my favorite books! I’ve been gushing about this book to so many people since I read it in January (including the publisher and author!) I can’t remember the last time I was THIS excited about a book. In other words, why haven’t you bought it yet?

Plot: The first thing that sold me on this book was that it was about a lesbian. Can I say there are just not enough books featuring teen lesbians out there? Seriously, I wish there were tons more, so when I hear of one I usually jump on it. But…but…this book goes way beyond that. It’s not about being gay, bi, or straight; it’s about discovering who you are. Ava’s parents are so much about sticking it to the man and thinking outside the norm, that they have painted her into a new sort of box. The gothy lesbian look is all good and dandy, but Ava really just wants to wear pink. She wants to know what it’s like to be part of the “in-crowd” and maybe even date a boy. Of course, nothing is as simple as it seems, which is a lesson Ava learns the hard way. There are many bumps–okay potholes–and detours along the way as Ava tries to make things work. Of course, the end of the book was not the end of Ava’s journey. She still wasn’t sure exactly who she was and may not know for a while, but she’ll continue to try to figure it out. Honestly, this is my favorite part; a school year is not enough time to firmly stamp you are and what your sexuality is. Kudos to Wilkinson for keeping it real and not tying it all up in a nice little bow.

Characters: Ava is far from perfect. She makes mistakes. HUGE mistakes. I understand the desire to be someone new/start over fresh though. Been there, done that several times over now. While I don’t condone all the lying that Ava does along the way, I can sympathize and understand how she got to that point. One little secret turns into another and another and pretty soon it’s out of control. However, I love that Ava is brave enough to admit her mistakes and apologize to everyone she wronged. She may have gone about many things wrong, but she tries her hardest to make them right again. And it’s not a quick fix, either; she’ll have to rebuild some of those relations, but Ava is willing to do what she can. I also love that she didn’t buckle under pressure and return to how others saw her. She had the chance to return to how everything was before, but she stick to her instinct, even if it meant losing someone she cared about.

Before I move on, I have to mention the side characters, especially the Screws. Being a theatre stag-crew/props/behind the scenes person myself, the Screws where my people in high school. While none of my friends where anything quite like them, it did bring back happy memories. I will say that Jen was my favorite character overall. The whole geek girl is my world and I kind of wish she were real so I could make her my new BFF (or more). But seriously, if you finish this book and not have an intense love for the Screws, well, something just isn’t right! (I’ll still love you, but I’ll have my serious doubts.)

Romance: Okay, so I’ll be honest. Ava is not single for most of this book. She and Chloe are in a relationship from the get-go, but honestly, Chloe does not have much page time. And when she does, you kind of wish she’d just go away. She’s too stuck in the thought that her opinions are law and is kind of a big bully. Her words are cutting, brutal, and very hurtful, especially when aimed at Jen. Not to mention her ultimatum to Ava is pure bs. So yes, Chloe exists but she is a predominant character.

Now there are other flirtations that are in the book, but nothing that evolves to a full out romance. There is definitely the possibility of more, especially with one character, but Ava still has a lot of figuring out to do before she crosses that line. If nothing else, there is still a great friendship–even if more never comes from it.

Writing: Wilkinson does a superb job at pulling readers into her world and making this world universal for anyone. I know this book took place in Australia, but for most of the book I forgot that detail, except when they mentioned what university they wanted to go with. Seriously, though, I could have seen this story taking place in my own home-town, which is the beauty of it. Wilkinson is quite spot on for the entire book. There was not a single time where I thought the pacing was off or a character would do this or that. And just how realistic everything thing is. . . Ah, really, I’m going to quit now before I get too gushy!

Librarian-Mode: Okay, pairing time. So there are a lot of books I think this one would do well next to. I truly believe it should be a GLBTQ staple and is a nice read-a-like for Keeping You a Secret, Ash, and Geography Club. However, this is a very good coming-of-age story and would work with realistic romances as well.

So, now it’s your turn…have you read Pink? If so, be sure to let me know what you thought.

Lizzie Bennet is attending Longbourn Academy, a top boarding school, on scholarship. Normally, this would be a good thing…if only the scholarship kids weren’t hated so much. Add on that Lizzie is also the “new” kid and her life is complete hell. While the other girls become obsessed over prom, designer dresses, and the prefect date, Lizzie tries to keep her focus on school and her part-time job. That is until Will Darcy,who has just returned from his semester abroad in London, enters her life. Handsome Darcy, who Lizzie is drawn to, until she learns he’s as snobby and pretentious as the other rich kids; the ones who think her lack of money makes her beneath them. Can Lizzie look beyond a bad impression and found her perfect match? Or will her pride keep her from discovering love?

The Short of It: Very cute. Eulburg does a fantastic job of retelling a classic while adding her own twists. Adaptations can be hit or miss, but this one got it just right.

Plot: It’s no secret that I’m a Jane Austen freak, so to say I was a bit nervous picking up this one is a bit of an understatement. Surely, this could not compare to the original and leave me sorely disappointed, right? Wrong, oh so wrong. Eulburg takes the beloved favorites like Darcy, Lizzie, Bingley, and Jane and transports them into the present. Yes, there is a bit of predictability in that you know Lizzie and Darcy will end up together, but journey is not quite the same. There is definitely echoes of the original story, but Eulburg adds in her own twist and turns and slowly makes it her own.

The only thing that nagged me a bit was the prom emphasis felt a bit out of place. I know that it was the big to-do at the school, but really wasn’t for Lizzie. She was more worried about surviving the year rather than what shoes to wear. I know for some of the secondary characters the prom fueled their motivations, but it wasn’t the meat and the bone of the story. With the title, cover, and even had it opened I thought it would play out much differently than it did. Although, while misleading, I am glad that Eulburg shaped it the way she did.

Characters: I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I took an instant liking to Darcy while I wanted to kick Lizzie out of a window a couple of times. Talk about your role reversals. Lizzie jumped to conclusions and was slow to forgive mistakes. I hated how she was unwilling to give Darcy a second chance even though he repeatedly tried to show he was a good guy. She refuses to drop her rich = snobby belief. I understand the girls at school, except Jane, treat her awful, but Darcy missteps are not in the same ballpark. I do like that she is big enough to admit when she is wrong though!

Now that said, Darcy is not without his faults. He does snap judge himself, but he does try to make amends even before he knows how the girls have been treating her. But don’t worry, he still kind of has that haughty I’m better than you attitude, however, his good guyness shines more often than not. Honestly, I may have loved him even more than the Darcy; perhaps because he wasn’t as priggish and I felt as if he were someone I could be friends with. I will say that he has to be my favorite character in Eulburg’s story.

Romance: As with the original, there is a lot of push and pull to the romance. Okay, mainly push. Lizzie’s first meeting with Darcy didn’t exactly go swimmingly and her distrust only grows from there. Darcy tries to show he is interested again and again, but her distrust and self-doubt get in the way. However, even during all this, you know they both really like each other. And despite it all, they really do work together and make a cute couple. I just wish they could have made it work a little sooner.

Writing: This area is pretty straightforward for me. Eulburg delivers a tightly written that delivered almost from page one. I rarely finish books in one sitting, but this was one I kept doing the “one more chapter” thing with until I was complete. The only thing that felt slightly out of place was the opening with the prom scene, but again I think that goes back to my whole prom emphasis point from earlier.

Librarian-Mode: I really do think that Pride and Prejudice/Austen lovers will enjoy this adaption, however, this would also make a good pairing with Anna and the French Kiss and Karma Club. If you want to pair it with other classic adaptations, be sure to look into Prada and Prejudice and Jane.

So, now it’s your turn…have you read Prom and Prejudice? If so, be sure to let me know what you thought.

When thirteen-year-old Cassie moves to a suburb of Seattle, she is determined to leave her boring, good-girl existence behind. She chooses some dangerous new friends and is quickly caught up in their fast-paced world of drugs, sex, secrets, and cruelty. Cassie’s new existence both thrills and terrifies her. She embraces the numbness she feels from the drugs, starts sleeping with an older boy, and gets pulled into a twisted friendship triangle that is tinged with violence and abuse. Cassie is trapped in a swift downward spiral, and there’s no turning back.

The Short of It: For me as a reader, this book did not gel with me at all and landed. However, it was well written, realistic, and I know many teens who would love it. While it was not one for me, but I would still recommend checking it out.

Plot: The plot is dark, darker, and darkest. Cassie loses herself almost from page one and never really recovers. This book is about drugs, sex, and abuse.I appreciate Reed showing that even good kids can be swept away by the wrong crowd. Bad kids are not always bad; sometimes they’ve simply made mistakes along the way. There are no real happy endings with this book, which sadly is the reality for many teens. There is a glimmer of hope for Cassie, but even once finishing the last line I wasn’t sure she’d make it.

There is one small thing that has been bugging me since I first read it and I feel like I have to mention it. Sarah is sent to live with Alex and her mother as being sexually abused by her father. However, it is stated several times they don’t want her. With how the situation is presented, Protective Services has to be involved. If her father is in jail, it means that police were called and therefor CPS. Coming from a family that does foster care, this would never happen. It’s obvious from the start Alex’s house is not a healthy environment; not only mentally, but physically as well. It’s described as a mess, smelling of mildew, and broken things on more than one occasion. You do not sent a broken child into an unhealthy situation. She should have been put into the system, not sent to her biological mother. Now, I could be wrong with CPS being involved, but somehow I doubt it. Just seeing how the system works I can’t imagine they wouldn’t be. And since I have a foster sibling and know what kind of hoops we have to jump through for even ME to stay overnight with my parents, this situation should have never happened. And unfortunately ruined part of the book for me, considering the important roll Sarah end up playing.

Characters: I’ve known people like Cassie. More from a distance than up close. What she goes through is completely and utterly realistic. However, being on the cleaning up the mess end, I had trouble relating to Cassie. I wanted to shake her and scream that she was much smarter than this road she was taking. I mean INCREDIBLY smart. Like so smart she didn’t miss a beat in school even though she was messed up for most of it. However, teens want to fit in and this was Cassie’s chance, even though it was not the right crowd. And as much as I couldn’t connect with Cassie, I understand that. Most importantly, Cassie understood that deep down. I think it’s one of the many reasons her mood swings were so wild. Yes, some of that was the drugs and other issues, but some of it was her knowing this was not a good situation to be in.

Romance: None. Yes, Cassie dates, but it’s about power and status and not about love.

Writing: I did enjoy Reed’s style. There was something real about the gritty writing that sucked me in right away. While I may have other issues with the book, the writing is certainly not one of them. In fact, I do plan to pick up her next book when it comes out this year.

Librarian-Mode: Hands down this one is for the Hopkins fans. While not in poetry form, the prose reads fast enough to satisfy them.

So, now it’s your turn…have you read Beautiful? If so, be sure to let me know what you thought.

Freak of nature takes on a whole new meaning…

If she hadn’t been so clueless, she might have seen it coming. But really, who expects to get into a relaxing bathtub after a stressful day of shopping for tankinis and come out with scales and a tail?

Most. Embarrassing. Moment. Ever.

Jade soon discovers she inherited her mermaid tendencies from her mom. But if Mom was a mermaid, how did she drown?

Jade is determined to find out. So how does a plus-size, aqua-phobic mer-girl go about doing that exactly? And how will Jade ever be able to explain her secret to her best friend, Cori, and to her crush, Luke?

This summer is about to get a lot more interesting…

The Short of It: The first word I think for this book is cute. Boudreau spins a fast paced, coming of age story that will be enjoyed by all ages although I think tweens will like it the most.

Plot: There were some cheesy and stretching moments, but honestly, it’s what makes the book so charming. Yes, most of the book is about Jade freaking about about being a mermaid (but wouldn’t you?), but the emotions and situations she goes through in every day life are something anyone can relate to. Getting tongue-tied in front of a crush? Freaking out about a first period? Afraid of losing your best friend? Check, check and check! Most of us have been through some version of those freak-outs and make Jade feel like a typical 13 year old girl. Enough so, that I can ignore the silly factor of salt bath causing her to sprout a tail and scales and the convenience of the mother-rescuing plot.

Characters: Jade can be a bit over dramatic, but what 13 year old isn’t? Despite that, she is a lovable character that I could connect with almost off the bat. I wanted to give her a hug when she started her period and then die of embarrassment as her dad Googled what to buy. While the situation with her mother was kind of eh, Jade handled it as well as any teenager could. I rooted for her as she overcame the obstacles in her way using her brain and creativity.

As a side note, I wanted to briefly mention body image. Jade several times over describes herself as “plus size”. However, I was never sure if she truly was or if that was just how she saw herself. Her best friends did make reference to hiding her trouble ares/mid-section, but I think most women today have trouble with some belly fat. I suppose I would have like to know if plus size mention size 10 or size 20, because one of them is plus-sized but the other is not.

Romance: There’s a bit of flirting and lots of crushing, but there is no true romance here. There is a promise of one, but we don’t get to see it fulfilled truly. Without going into spoilers, I will say that the thing Luke reveals is way too predictable. I had a moment of that’s cute, but overall I wish it hadn’t been put in.

Writing: I really don’t have much to say in this category. My few issues has been already pointed out, as have my compliments. However, I do want to repeat how great a job Boudreau in making a believable, fast-paced story.

Librarian-Mode: Admittedly, I haven’t read many mermaid books. However, after talking with others, it is safe to say this book would be well placed with The Mermaid’s Mirror and Forgive My Fins.

So, now it’s your turn…have you read Real Mermaids Don’t Wear Toe Rings? If so, be sure to let me know what you thought.

When shy Jenny Cooper goes to stay with her cousin Jane Austen, she knows nothing of the world of beautiful dresses, dances, secrets, gossip, and romance that Jane inhabits. At fifteen, Jane is already a sharp observer of the customs of courtship. So when Jenny falls utterly in love with Captain Thomas Williams, who better than Jane to help her win the heart of this dashing man?   But is that even possible? After all, Jenny’s been harboring a most desperate secret. Should it become known, it would bring scandal not only to her, but also to the wonderful Austen family. What’s a poor orphan girl to do?   In this delicious dance between truth and fiction, Cora Harrison has crafted Jenny’s secret diary by reading everything Jane Austen wrote as a child and an adult, and by researching biographies, critical studies, and family letters. Jenny’s diary makes the past spring vividly to life and provides insight into the entire Austen family–especially the beloved Jane.

The Short of It: If you’re a fan of Jane Austen, you’ll love this book as it holds a lot of the same charm and style. Admittedly, it does start a little slow, but once it gets going it’s very hard to put down.

Plot: While Harrison states that I Was Jane Austen’s Best Friend is largely a work of fiction, she captured the time period nicely.  Although, I will admit I do not know much about Austen or her family, it was easy to believe that this was their way of life. Just from reading Austen books, the atmosphere that Harrison created was very much the same. I will warn, though, there are some parts that drag a bit; but I think that’s to be expected as we’re following a girl in the 1870s. She was living in a time where women were held to strict rules and there was little room for adventure or excitement without causing a scandal. And while there may be moments of dullness, overall, I enjoyed Jenny’s adventures as she found love.

Characters: There’s not much one can say that is unkind about Jenny. Yes, she’s not the break out of the mold-heroine, but she is kind and good hearted. And while she wasn’t one to break the rules normally, she was willing to put her life in danger to save Jane when she was sick. However, I do wish Jenny were a bit less shy. I hated how she was unable to stand up for herself against her sister-in-law or state how she felt about Thomas. It did seem as if she were coming out of her shell a bit towards the end and I have high hopes that with Thomas as a guide she’ll be able to speak her mind even more.

Romance: Have you every had one of those moments where you’re happy with the romance, but then at the same time you’re not? This would be one of those instances for me. First of all, I really hate girls who fall for any man who smiles charmingly at her. I know this is part of the times where girls cared less about love than finding a wealthy match, but it makes the proclamations of love seem worthless (and of course they probably really are). And I know Jenny was really not in love with any of them, except Thomas, but her school girl crushes and how they were easily dismissed was a bit tiresome. And I know this was perfectly valid for this time period, even Austen’s own heroines do it at times, but for some reason it has always driven me crazy.

So now that I’ve rambled about that, let’s talk about Jenny and Thomas’ romance. I had an instant liking to the coupling. I knew from the instant that they met that he was who she would end up with. Out of all the guys Jenny crushed out, Thomas was certainly the best. I only wish Thomas had been around a bit more. I know this is sort of based off real facts and that their romance was very fast (meet and engaged within a month), but I would have liked to know him a bit more. I would have enjoyed seeing their love truly bloom, but that may just be talking from a modern day’s perspective. After all, romance in the 1870s is very different than the ones in 2010!

Writing: I enjoyed that journal style that Harrison took on. She managed to make it feel personable to Jenny, but make the secondary characters come alive. I truly felt that, while I was seeing them through Jenny’s eyes, I truly knew most of the Austen family members. The ones that interacted with Jenny came alive on the page even in diary format.

The only thing that threw me off a little is when Harrison switched it to real time. This was usually during key events, like when Thomas made an appearance. At first, I didn’t like it, but once I realized what Harrison was doing it grew on me. Plus, it was a nice change of pace to step out to see an event unfolding rather than reading a retelling. It allowed for true dialogue and allowed for feelings and perspectives that may have been lost in the journal format. And, honestly, it did add a certain magic being there as it happened.

Librarian-Mode: I’ve been thinking about this one for a while, because I Was Jane Austen’s Best Friend is quite different than most books I’ve read. Of course, anyone who loves Austen’s work will enjoy this, too, but there aren’t an abundance of those when it comes to teenagers. However, I think most historical readers would enjoy this one as well. I would think that those who liked the Luxe Series or Faithful would like this one as well.

So, now it’s your turn…have you read I Was Jane Austen’s Best Friend? If so, be sure to let me know what you thought.

The teen-girl fascination with weddings comes to fiction in this hilarious debut, as 17-year-old Bronwen Oliver plots her escape from her family . . . by marrying into someone else’s. Here Comes the Bride — If She Can Pass Chemistry. Eighteen-year-old Bronwen Oliver has a secret: She’s really Phoebe, the lost daughter of the loving Lilywhite family. That’s the only way to explain her image-obsessed mother; a kind but distant stepfather; and a brother with a small personality complex. Bronwen knows she must have been switched at birth, and she can’t wait to get away from her

The Short of It: I’ve been done with this one for a couple weeks now, but I’m still not sure what I think of it. I went in expecting one type of story and, honestly, got something completely and utterly different. It’s a cute story with a good ending message; one I liked, but didn’t love.

Plot: While I love the end message of this book, something about it has been nagging at me since I’ve finished. At first I thought it was the unrealistic aspect of being engaged and planning a wedding while being a senior in high school. Or how quick it was all happening or even how she was allowing her dreams and plans to be changed by another. But in the end, I feel all of this was a cover-up for what was really going on in her life. I wish McCahan had spent more time fleshing out the family problems. That was the real issue and should have gotten a bit more page time.

Characters: There were times I really liked Bronwen and other times I just wanted to shake some sense into her. Ok, mainly it was shake some sense into her. I hated how she allowed others to take control of her life, especially when it came to her mother. Even with Jared she let what she wanted be pushed aside for his desires. I hated seeing her create a fantasy life because she was so unhappy with her own.

Without trying to ruining too much, I will say once she stopped hiding behind the lies and fictional stories, I loved who she became. McCahan sent a strong, positive message to teenage girls with the road she took Bronwen down. In fact, the change is what made me finally really adore Bronwen. It was good to see her get to a healthy point in her life–one that included becoming who she wanted to be.

Romance: I have to admit I really enjoyed Bronwen and Jared’s relationship. Admittedly, it moved a little too fast, but they were still cute nonetheless. I found myself awing at some of their moments and secretly cheering for them even when everything went very wrong. Most of all, I love how McCahan shows that even when a relationship goes off track, it doesn’t have to be the end. I’m glad it wasn’t exactly a happily-ever-after, although, there was enough hope that one may be somewhere around the bend. I applaud for capturing the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to relationships.  It was nice to see a realistic look at the ups and downs and the messes a real romance can cause and leave behind.

Writing: Overall, I think the writing is pretty strong. However, there were a couple of spots that made me stumble/reread passages, mainly in regards to who was speaking and time continuity. While I can pass the who was speaking off to me reading late at night, the time issue bothered me the most. McCahan would describe how the characters did something, then would jump back in time and continue as normal. While I understand why it was done, it was hard as a reader to keep track of the timeline at times. And I know this is kind of small, but it drove me a little crazy, especially when I had to flip back and forth. Other than that I think McCahan has a great style of writing and would be willing to check out future books.

Librarian-Mode: This is going to fit best in with the realistic fiction crowd. While not exactly alike, it would be a good pairing with Twenty Boy Summer, Not that Kind of Girl, or The Karma Club.

So, now it’s your turn…have you read I Now Pronounce You Someone Else? If so, be sure to let me know what you thought.

Avery Hood is now an orphan. Her parents were brutally murdered at their home; a murder that Avery witnessed. But all she can remember is flashes of silver moving inhumanly fast, and lots of blood. What exactly happened and who did it remains out of her grasp.

While nothing will ever be the same again, Avery tries to keep things semi-together by returning to school. A place where she is completely friendless–that is until Ben arrives. The new boy in town–one with a dark secret and one that she is utterly drawn to. But when she learns that Ben is a werewolf with inhuman silver eyes and no memory of the night her parents died, she doubts everything she knows about him. Could he be the mysterious killer they’re looking for? Or is it all just a case of odd coincidences? Avery holds the key to the truth…if she could just unlock her memories before time runs out

The Short of It: So, I kind of knew I’d love this one before even starting. The author has rarely let me down and definitely did not disappoint this time. The only thing I wish is that it has been a little longer.

Plot: I’m trying to be careful about the plot without ruining anything. As far as paranormals go, this was something I hadn’t really seen before. Okay, yes, werewolves are nothing new, but it was the additional elements that Devlin added in that I enjoyed. For example, the connection that Avery has to the forest? Kind of love it. And I can say that I kept switching my vote on who killed her parents. I will admit that I didn’t guess the right person, but I was so very close! There is still a lot of unanswered questions by the end of the book, especially about her grandma. I certainly hope that a sequel is in the works because I would love to see where the story leads.

Characters: Avery. I’m not sure what to really say about her. Her upbringing made her a bit different from any other YA character I’ve read before. I mean, after all, you don’t see too many main characters who have grown up secluded. Yes, I know they did go into town, but she didn’t have many friends. And being home-schooled just made her seem more isolated from her peers. However, she really acted like a normal teenager would. She was kind of down to earth and had her head on straight. And considering her parents were just murdered, that is saying quite a lot. I just wish she would have been a bit more cautious at certain times and had learned to trust the right people a little more.

Romance: This is the one spot I felt was a little weak. I would have liked to see a bit more relationship building when it came to Ben and Avery. I know that Devlin explains why they have an instant connection–especially Ben, but I would have liked to see more. I know I’m being kind of vague, but I don’t want to ruin the paranormal parts of their relationship. I will say that it has been done before, but I still enjoyed it nonetheless.

Writing: No complaints here. Devlin’s story kept me entertained throughout. I will say there were a couple of spots that I would have liked to be fleshed out more. I don’t mind being kept in the dark sometimes, and I get that’s where the mystery/suspense part comes in, but there were some parts I just wanted to know MORE. Again, I assume there is to be a sequel, but I really wish there had been just a little bit more answered in this book.

Librarian-Mode: This one will go easily with the paranormal lovers. It can be grouped easily with Shiver, Dark Divine, and the like. Although, I think those who like mystery/suspense will eat this one up as well, as long as they’re not totally turned off by paranormal.

So, now it’s your turn…have you read Low Red Moon? If so, be sure to let me know what you thought.

Livia Stowe hasn’t had the best luck when it comes to boys. She’s come across those who have lied and those who have left her broken hearted when she needed them the most. But this is the summer where she hopes everything will change. After finally beating her battle with cancer, she has convinced her mom to let her spend the summer with her brother in the States. This was to be the summer about inner reflection and figuring out the things she has known about love through her private blog. And while she is endlessly talking about love, she never thought that a holiday love would happen to her. Not until Adam that is. If she can just grab his attention, this may become the best holiday ever. If only Livia can move beyond writing about love and risk the chance to experience it…

The Short of It: I adored this book…until the end. Really, honestly, until the last 20 pages or so. I kind of suspected it was going to end the way it did, but I had high hopes that I was wrong. When I figured out I was right, I literally threw the book across the room and left it there for a while. I did end up finishing it, but the ending really did disappoint me. And although I didn’t cry, I would recommend having some tissues close on hand.

Plot: I liked the plot. Really I did. Or at least I did until the last 20 pages or so. I love the idea of a girl truly reflecting on love and taking it seriously. It’s not about bad boys or quick, unrealistic or unhealthy love. It was still a bit quick, but she had met him before and sometimes first impressions can be very strong. She learned from her past mistakes, no matter how small they were, and took them into account as she moved forward. I will admit, that most seventeen girls do not think this way, but I wish they would! This book has one of the more healthier messages I’ve seen in YA in regards to romance.

Now, I really wish she had been wiser when it came to the rest of her life. She should have ignored the things that she did. As a cancer survivor, I think she would have planned things just a bit more safe. However, I do understand as a young girl tasting her first chance at freedom in years would get carried away. I only wish Le Vann wouldn’t have felt it necessary to end it as she had. I’m sure some of my opinion on this area is that I’m a sap for happily-ever-afters, but the larger part of me felt like it was a ill-fit. She could have done so many other things and the ending just felt too fast, a tad forced, and unrealistic.

Characters: Livia is a very likable character. I was reminded of my own seventeen year old self and could easy relate to her. (Ok, so my twenty-something self can as well.) I was right with her as she tried to figure out something that is completely illogical and irrational…love. Her stories were ones that any normal girl could see herself in. Haven’t we all had a boy twist the truth to make himself look more favorable? Or leave us when we least expected it? Even her lists and final conclusions were honest and raw. Her view on a possible holiday romance was refreshing and I truly enjoyed my journey with her.

Romance: The moment Adam entered the picture, I knew he would be perfect for Livia. Normally, I’m not sure I would approve of the age gap for someone that young, but it really didn’t bother me in this case. Perhaps it was because I was excited to see a truly realistic boy for once. One that was incredibly sweet and kind, but that wasn’t sure of his footing. It was refreshing to see a boy’s doubts as he worries about missed chances, perfect dates, and falling in love. It was cute how their thoughts echoed each other almost perfectly. And even if the romance didn’t last forever, it was a nice reminder that love can hit without any warning when you least expect it.

Writing: I really enjoyed the blog style that Le Vann chose to use. It gave it a more personal, story-telling effect without feeling overwhelming. Yes, there wasn’t necessarily a lot of dialogue, but it worked well in this case. After all, the story was more about Livia and what she has learned about love than an actual love story. It’s her personal thoughts and reflections on the things she has already experienced in order to help with what she will someday experience. This book was her facts and no one else’s, so a blog seemed the perfect way to go. I am glad, though, that Le Vann decided to have Adam do a blog as well. It was nice to see his perspective and his voice added quite a bit to the story, in more ways than one. His thoughts truly made the story richer and may just be the reason that the blog style really worked in this book. I never felt like I needed more or that I was missing pieces of the story/inner thoughts of someone else. And while I may have hated the ending of this book, I would love to read something else by her.

Librarian-Mode: Hands down I think this book will fit the best with those who love Lurlene McDaniel. You may also try recommending it to those who enjoyed Sing Me To Sleep as well. Simply put, those who love those sappy, tear-jerker endings will adore this one.

So, now it’s your turn…have you read Things I Know About Love? If so, be sure to let me know what you thought.