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Post by alohaTHOR on Mar 6, 2015 7:51:22 GMT -5
By the way! If anyone has read any of these books, I would LOVE to talk to you about them! <3
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Post by alohaTHOR on Mar 6, 2015 7:45:02 GMT -5
So my book came earlier than I thought, Amazon has weird tracking or something...
Collide by J.R. Lenk
Synopsis: Hazard James, now entering high school, is at an impasse of sorts. He has feelings he doesn't understand and his life seems to have gotten a hundred times more confusing after entering high school. And then he meets Jesse Wesley, the infamous bad boy everyone knows and talks about. Forming a camaraderie of sorts, Jesse introduces Hazard to the world of parties, alcohol, drugs, and sex which eventually leads to a friends-with-benefits relationship between he and Jesse. But as time goes on, Hazard's feelings deepen and perhaps so does Jesse's but neither is willing to admit to it. Collide is a tale about the insecurities of love and the change that comes from two people "colliding", forever changing the other's life.
Review: 3.75 / 5
This book... I don't even know what to say about it... it is probably the most frustrating book I have ever read... Each page... each line... I hated everything... Okay, so obviously that isn't quite true. I was... I don't know... I don't think anything I say can really justify this book. It's full of angst... teenage rebellion... insecurities... heartbreak... sex... love... It was literally everywhere... The main character Hazard is increasingly insecure. He has abandonment issues and he cries a lot. He is also witty and sarcastic, at times a pain. But he also has a cute side to him. Jesse is a wild card... you never really know how he's gonna act or what mood he's going to be in... When they're together, they are either totally and completely in love with one another, never able to keep their hands off each other or they hate each other's guts and are in screaming matches. They have really tender moments and some really not tender moments... It's like watching one of those chick flicks when you know that the main characters are in love with one another but because of a misunderstanding or what not they never get together until the end... except that this isn't as perfect as a movie... You'll just have to read it to understand what I mean.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Mar 3, 2015 22:54:56 GMT -5
So, I've been really bored lately... school is school, ya know... and the next book on my reading agenda has not arrived yet, Collide by J.R. Lenk. When will you come D:<
Anyway, I noticed that I never really did reviews on the Something Like series (or as some people know them as, the Seasons series). So all aboard the Something Like train cuz here they come. Now I might be biased since this has become my favorite book series since reading them but... here goes. These will contain minor spoilers so be warned.
Something Like Summer by Jay Bell
Synopsis: Something Like Summer is the heartwarming and tear-jerking tale of a love between two boys over the course of more than a decade. There is Benjamin (Ben) Bentley, a talented singer and the only out student at his high school, and Tim Wyman, the tall, dark, and handsome jock that just transferred, not to mention the perfect fantasy. Brought together by certain events, the two fall passionately in love but their relationship is tested when Tim's fears get the better of him.
Review: 4.25 / 5
This is the beginning of my downfall. Something Like Summer is the book that started the series and centers around the main character Ben Bentley. He is arguably the most important character throughout the series, and in my opinion, the strongest. He is compassionate, caring, cute, adorable, loving, sexy, funny, just an all-around great guy. He can be unbelievably ridiculous at times, often running with his emotions but who hasn't been guilty of that? He is young and makes mistakes but he is also wise enough to know never to make them again. He grows throughout the book and it is a pleasure to watch.
Anyway, this is a great book. Definitely should be read first.
Something Like Winter
Synopsis: Something Like Winter is the second in the series and focuses on the main character Tim Wyman. In this book, we get Tim's side of the story along with what happens to him during the time jump.
Review: 4 / 5
To be honest, when first reading Something Like Summer, Tim was probably my least favorite character. Having read Winter my mind was changed. I wasn't jumping out of my seat or proclaiming my love for Tim or anything of that sort but I understood him better. There were so many things I couldn't overlook in Summer but after finding out the reasons and motivations of Tim's actions, the romantic in me gave in. Tim earned a spot in my heart.
Read this after Summer! It grazes over events that took place in Summer but also goes into ones we didn't get to in Summer.
Something Like Autumn
Synopsis: Here is the last third of Summer's trio, a book featuring (my favorite character) Jace Holden. In Autumn, we learn of Jace's past and then dive into his relationship with Ben, which wasn't so strongly discussed in Something Like Summer.
Review: 4.5 / 5
Of the three books so far, this one made me the most emotional. I don't want to give away why but I still cry every single time I read it. As I said in the synopsis, Autumn begins when Jace is still a teenager. Jace definitely has the most tragic past of the three and it warms your heart when he finds happiness. My heart is aching just thinking about it so I will just leave it at that. Jace <3
Something Like Spring
Synopsis: Spring introduces a new character in the form of Jason Grant. At the beginning of the book, Jason is 15 years old and in the foster care system. He has been so for a few years now, never really fitting in anywhere, and wanting to go back to his mother even though she is no longer alive. After another failed attempt at a home he actually wants to stay at, Jason gives up his search for a home and tries living on his own. After unsuccessfully do so, he contacts his old case worker Michelle Trout (Jace's sister) and she sets him up to live with Ben and Tim.
Review: 4.75 / 5
This is by far my favorite book of the series. I really responded and related to Jason and felt his pain. For so long he was dealt bad cards and it was nice to see that although discouraged, he was willing to try to find happiness. I would say that all the books are about love. First loves, true love, the type that never goes away, whether it is a lover, friend, or family. This book in particular does so in the family aspect which is really heartwarming. It dives into the lives of Ben and Tim after the events of Summer/Winter/Autumn and they really are too cute. I enjoyed every moment they spent together with Jason and the ending is just magical. There are a lot of parallels between Jason's relationship with Caesar and William and Ben's relationship with Jace and Tim, which was a nice touch. There is so much we get to see in Spring that ties up loose ends and it is just... ahh.. I cry every time I read this book too.
Something Like Lighting
Synopsis: In this book, we go back almost a year before the time Spring starts, with the book focusing on Kelly, the ex-boyfriend of William. Kelly is a star athlete, the fastest runner at his high school. His dream is to compete in the olympics one day. It just so happens he is preparing for a three-part marathon and William is the best swimmer. Each trading tips, the two begin to fall in love but find it difficult to stay in love when they are so different. After his dreams are crushed, he has become bitter and broken but with the help of Jason and a few others, Kelly finds his way back to the things he used to love.
Review: 4 / 5
Okay, so you definitely should read Spring before this one. This is technically not of the Something Like series, it is the first in the Storm series but it is still in the same universe. As said, the book is focused on William's ex-boyfriend Kelly. In Spring, we don't find out much about him besides general information through William and their friends and he is painted horribly. He is gorgeous on the outside but on the inside? This book deals with the loss of dreams and finding new ones, with love in the mix of course. There is a book coming out this summer I believe, which will be told from the perspective of Kelly's love interest, so keep a look out for that.
OVERALL
Jay Bell must have magical fingers or some elves that help him with his writing or something. His writing move me to tears, I feel anxious each time I read the books because they are each filled with heart wrenching moments. There aren't many authors that can get you so wrapped up in fictional characters' lives as Bell has so graciously done multiple times. Even in his other books (I've read a couple of his short stories and Kamikaze Boys) his skills shine through. Each character is so well written that you can't help but fall in love with them. Being books about gay teens/adults, there is a fare share of coming out but Bell never really puts emphasis on this. Coming out seems like a big deal but he brisks over it as if it were any simple matter, something that I like. He doesn't make it a big issue because it shouldn't be one. I don't know what else to say except that he is an amazing author and these books are amazing as well.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Mar 3, 2015 19:29:48 GMT -5
Well, that may be so, but currently it seems too late to change her circumstances. As Callie said, she can't just go to the judge and tell him she's changed her mind without giving him a reason, thus implicating her and Brandon along with Daphne's crime.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Mar 3, 2015 18:01:00 GMT -5
I think both Jude and Connor don't know exactly what's going on themselves. They are still pretty young, and Connor does have his homophobic dad to deal with. I don't see them being in a rush to be out and together. And who knows what's going to happen after the "tragedy" on the date next week. I'm not a huge Braillie person. I think it's more important for Callie to have the family she wants than to date Brandon. I think she needs the Fosters more than she needs Brandon to be her boyfriend. Also, Stef and Lena were cute in the bedroom scene. I usually find them annoying because they have this habit of being bad communicators and it drives me nuts. Callie definitely needs the family, more than specifically havehaving Brandon as her boyfriend. Every time that option is focused on, is when Callie believes that being adopted by Stef and Lena isn't a possibility for her. Each and everytime. That girls wants a family and to see her breakdown like that and still somehow want her to end up Brandon over being legally adopted by Stef and Lena? Yes, I understand she wants the Fosters as family and that includes Brandon. I'm not saying that she should get adopted and date Brandon. I'm just saying that the romantic in me likes it when two people come together after being separated by their circumstances. I mean, you can't say that at least Brandon still doesn't have feelings for Callie. His little speech at the end of the episode about giving up anything for her? That was basically saying that he still loved her and giving her up was to make her happy. And the way things are going, her moving off to live with Robert. I think that's part of the screen writers way of somehow allowing Brallie to happen. I mean, like Lena said (maybe she didn't say this and I'm just crazy)... It doesn't take them adopting Callie to make them her family.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Mar 3, 2015 13:09:20 GMT -5
I am just.... wondering what is going on... In the promo for the next episode, it clearly shows that Jude and Connor are with Taylor and Daria... Is Connor still with Daria or are Jude and Connor using them as covers? Either way I'd be unhappy... On the other hand... is there going to be anymore Brallie moments? I miss Brallie already... And the bedroom scene Stef and Lena had during this last episode was too cute. I think both Jude and Connor don't know exactly what's going on themselves. They are still pretty young, and Connor does have his homophobic dad to deal with. I don't see them being in a rush to be out and together. And who knows what's going to happen after the "tragedy" on the date next week. I'm not a huge Braillie person. I think it's more important for Callie to have the family she wants than to date Brandon. I think she needs the Fosters more than she needs Brandon to be her boyfriend. Also, Stef and Lena were cute in the bedroom scene. I usually find them annoying because they have this habit of being bad communicators and it drives me nuts. It isn't that I want Connor and Jude to suddenly come out as a couple, I just don't like seeing them leading on those girls, well more so of Connor leading on Daria. I know it is confusing for both J and C but dating Daria isn't going to help anything. Maybe it will get C's father off his back but what will happen if he does start dating J? J will start to feel spiteful eventually if C never comes out and they have to keep hiding their relationship. And yeah, I totally agree with you. Callie certainly wants and needs the Fosters as a family more so than she needs Brandon as a boyfriend but I can't help that the romantic in me that keeps wanting them to be endgame. Currently, I am so disappointed in Brandon. I can't believe he sold his grandfather's baseball (even if it was to his own father)... and what I can't believe more is that Lou suggested him to do it. It was so insensitive to do so, no matter if Brandon liked sports or not. Am I the only one getting the feeling that the new principal might be after Lena?
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Post by alohaTHOR on Mar 3, 2015 5:15:09 GMT -5
I am just.... wondering what is going on... In the promo for the next episode, it clearly shows that Jude and Connor are with Taylor and Daria... Is Connor still with Daria or are Jude and Connor using them as covers? Either way I'd be unhappy...
On the other hand... is there going to be anymore Brallie moments? I miss Brallie already... And the bedroom scene Stef and Lena had during this last episode was too cute.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Mar 2, 2015 13:24:21 GMT -5
Am I the only one who LOVES Taylor (the girl Jude is talking with)?
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 28, 2015 19:28:29 GMT -5
Today, I come bearing two reviews!
Sock It To Me, Santa by Madison Parker
Synopsis: It is a couple of weeks before Christmas break and instead of worrying about midterms, Ryan is plagued with the task of handcrafting three gifts for his secret Santa, the overly flamboyant out and proud Jamie. As Christmas draws nearer, Ryan struggles with his emerging feelings for Jamie and the fears that come with associating with him.
Review: 3 / 5 (It was really short, about 50 pages)
This is a cute tale about Ryan, who is closeted, and how he is forced to participate in Secret Santa by one of his teachers. He fatefully draws the name of Jamie Peterson, the openly and flamboyant gay student who loves arts and crafts. As the weeks go by, Ryan slowly gravitates into Jamie's orbit, learning and falling in love with him. The overall story is cute but too short for my taste. Nothing I haven't read about before but nonetheless, cute.
End of Innocence (4) by John Goode
Synopsis: We once again join Kyle and Brad at Foster High. It is almost winter break and things have seemed to cool down after the incidents of the first book (or third I guess), barely anyone even pays attention to the couple anymore. Unknowingly, it is just the calm before the storm. With new friends and old friends, Kyle and Brad's lives are changing, for better or for worse, they don't quite know. What they do know is that their lives are changing forever. "The more things change, the more they stay the same."
Review: 4.25 / 5
Wow, End of Innocence was just... amazing. We get to dive into the world of the "smartest dumb kid" Kyle Stilleno and the "foolishly in love jock" Brad Greymark again and boy, is it wonderful. Or not so wonderful. Kyle is still plagued with low self-esteem and the constant worry of Brad leaving him, but you know what? I don't care. Kyle is cute, adorable, sassy, and just plain awesome. His retorts and strong moral sense shocked me just as much as the characters who witnessed them and like Brad, I hope I'll never be on the receiving end of them. He still has a lot of growing up to do but surely he is maturing. This book made me fall in love with Brad. He is so whipped, something he is constantly reminded of by Jennifer (his ex-girlfriend turned best friend), and it's so cute. You can really see how much he loves Kyle, every single thought and action of Brad's made solely for him. Each keep thinking they are the lucky ones for being with the other but I can't help but feel they are both lucky. My heart was pounding each time they had an intimate moment (and no, I don't mean sex).
This book really speaks volumes about discrimination and prejudice, which was explored in the first 3 segments, so much so that I had a hard time reading it. This time, it was so much more dark... more... real... the rules had changed. I was so fearful of what would happen to them, I kept reminding myself that everything would be okay, I mean, it had to be right? There are still 2 more books after this. As I kept reading, I saw what was coming but I was not prepared. I guess it's just something you'd have to read. This book was maddening, saddening, and just a roller coaster ride. Two thumbs up to John Goode.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 27, 2015 9:01:27 GMT -5
Oh gosh, I've turned into a sleepless monster again. I'll try to keep these short from now on.
Play Me, I'm Yours by Madison Parker
Synopsis: Lucas Tate loves music. When he is sitting in front of a piano, he can't help but get lost in the melody, putting his heart and soul into each piece. What he doesn't love? The endless nicknames and ridicule he receives for his effeminate looks, shy personality, and quirky behavior, not to mention everyone thinks he's gay. Even his brother and dad seem embarrassed to be around him. But things change for Lucas when three very different but handsome boys find their way into his life: Alex the impulsive yet well-meaning jock, Donovan the out and proud sex-crazed friend of a friend, and Zach the sensitive and sweet swimmer on his brother's team.
Rate: 3.75 / 5
I really liked this book. It was well-written and the main characters were so likeable (well, most of them). I loved all the interactions they had with one another, especially Lucas and Alex. They were so cute and adorable, so completely comfortable with one another and some of their conversations made me laugh out loud. Mason, Lucas's younger brother, was absolutely adorable as well. He is probably my favorite character in the book (you'll have to read as to why!). Anyway, this story focuses on Lucas coming out and finding love but Lucas is so inexperienced and naive it is almost annoying. He is an introvert and socially awkward, not having a real friend until he meets Trish, and even then they don't have too many scenes together. He is too eager to be with someone and lets his emotions run wild (he cries a lot) but he can also be really cute and sweet, dorky because of this innocence. It is a bit strange... or weird... I can't think of the word at the moment (it's almost 6 AM here) how Zach's "past" came about. Not so much as how it got out but as to why... It felt like it was written in as a catalyst to make Zach seem like a bad guy or something.... you'll understand if you read it. Overall, this story was filled with a lot of cuteness and fluff, some inner demons that we've all faced at one point as a teenager, and most of all, coming to like ourselves for us and not how people want us to be. It was also a big plus with all the musical references, I love me a good book with music interwoven in the plot.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 26, 2015 20:43:56 GMT -5
Hmm... I thought the tent incident involved girls? Wasn't that how they explained it back when it was an issue? That's what he told the principal when Connor's dad was in the room, but it also wasn't clear that told the true story. Here's a clip after the scene the meeting in the office. Around 9 seconds Jude starts to say "but I didn't..." and Connor cuts him off. I assume (and it seemed like a lot of people assumed) that what Jude said wasn't the truth, and what he was going to say was that he didn't tell his mom that they had kissed in the tent. Ahh, that makes sense. I guess I wasn't paying attention too closely. Well, just a few days away til we find out!
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 25, 2015 10:45:32 GMT -5
Ahh, so many books I want to read but simply don't have the money to buy! Reviews will be coming slower nowadays.
Tales From Foster High (1-3) by John Goode
I believe there are 6 books in total, I'm actually not certain how this series progresses in terms of books. I once asked the author but I'm still kind of lost, so if you have any idea, please let me know.
For the most part, Kyle Stillenos is invisible. He has perfected his routine of avoiding all people and contact, so much so that most people don't even know who he is or that he attends Foster High. Until one day the most popular boy at Foster High, Brad Greymark ends up in his path. Falling for each other almost instantly, the two begin a relationship in small-town Foster, Texas where their love for one another is tested by the bigotry, prejudice, and discrimination of their peers, while also dealing with their own inner demons.
Review: To be honest, Tales From Foster High was a random pick. It seemed interesting and I bought it impulsively and boy was I glad I did. It isn't perfect by far but it has a certain charm that kept me reading through the night. The first part of the book is told from Kyle's perspective, the second from Brad's, and then the third alternates between the two.
I loved the main characters. Kyle is smart (having a 4.2 GPA), socially awkward, and over thinks everything. His inner dialogues are wonderful although his constant metaphors and references to tv shows and such can get a bit boring, it made him interesting. Brad is that super good looking guy that you wonder if he is photoshopped somehow, athletic, popular, the "golden boy". He has a chip on his shoulder from being used by people for his status as a popular kid and thus feels extremely lonely, especially when he didn't ask to be popular. Their relationship is a fast moving one, they've only really known each other a week before beginning to date and even so, their moments together are so adorable I could die from sweetness overload. They seem to understand one another well, thus causing rifts and arguments between them. They are often led by their emotions which causes problems where there need none be.
Part One - Kyle This part of the book was great. Kyle is an amazing character and we learn a lot about why he uses "social camouflage". He's funny and witty, a certain charm to his dorkiness.
Part Two - Brad This part was drudging on boring. There were a lot of background information about Brad but it borderlined irrelevant. It made me dislike Brad because the constant worry over his popularity and the aspect of his future in playing baseball against being with Kyle. You see him go back and forth a lot and he seems to be portrayed as selfish, a bit arrogant, and plain out unlikeable. Eventually he comes around though.
Part Three - Kyle & Brad Kyle is a changed man, he doesn't simply stand by anymore and is more upfront about moral rights and the injustice at hand. Brad however is still dealing with all "shit storm" of coming out.
Of course, said in my synopsis of the book, this story isn't simply about two boys falling in love. The latter half of the story, although elements of building their relationship still remains, focuses on the discrimination they face from not only other students but also the staff of the high school. Now, I don't know much about the laws and views on the LGBT community in Texas (much alone California where I live) but it seems so... intense? In the book, there is a reference to the death of Michael Jackson, thus meaning that the it is at least the year 2009. I understand that Texas is one of the least supportive states of LGBT rights but is it really that bad? (I merely want to know for the sake of knowing).
Rating: 3/5 I know, I said that it was worth reading but then I gave it a low rating. I must be crazy or something. Well, although there were many aspects of the story that I loved, there were also many that I disliked. A lot of the time I found that the problems Kyle and Brad faced were too out of their control, yes I understand that is how life is sometimes but I wanted situations in which their actions actually mattered and really affected one another (not saying that they didn't). Both characters were lovely, I loved their interactions with one another and the chemistry between them were basically setting my room on fire but at the same time, there relationship was so short that I didn't quite understand how they could feel about one another so strongly. There are also cliches all over the place, nerd and jock falling in love, they hook up, jock still has a girlfriend, jock must decide whether he wants to be with nerd or be popular... Overall, the book needs a closer look when it comes to editing, during the third segment, at times it seemed to be writing from Brad's perspective when in fact it was Kyle's and there are grammatical errors sprinkled throughout. Not to mention there are characters introduced which seem to play no role other than to reinforce some variation that everything will turn out okay.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 25, 2015 3:23:28 GMT -5
I certainly agree, you could see how torn up Jude is about Callie in the last episode even though he tries to put up a happy face for her. He will indeed need Connor to be there for him as a friend but I still can't help but feel happy that they are finally getting on with their story. I feel like Jude is the character with the least screen time. Don't get me wrong I'm also happy that their story is progressing. I just wish Jude had another friend to lean on. He's having a hard time with the two people he is closest to, which has got to be tough. I wonder if there is some editing magic going on and the possible kiss that we see is the one Jude is talking about, and not a tent kiss, which people may be assuming. Like, Connor kisses Jude, then Connor flips out about the whole thing and then Jude says "You kissed me, remember?" Or maybe not and he is talking about the possible tent kiss. It's just a thought. Hmm... I thought the tent incident involved girls? Wasn't that how they explained it back when it was an issue?
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 24, 2015 14:42:17 GMT -5
I agree, Jude's lack of screen time is saddening. But from the looks of the next episode's preview, it will have a big Jonnor moment <3 I can't wait for it. As much as I was happy to see the storyline progress in the preview, I'm starting to think for Jude now isn't really a good time for him to have his best friend make a move on him. What he needs more than anything right now, with all that's going on with Callie, is a best friend. Connor is his only friend (or a least that's what it looks like) and it would suck if whatever happens in the next episode complicates that. I certainly agree, you could see how torn up Jude is about Callie in the last episode even though he tries to put up a happy face for her. He will indeed need Connor to be there for him as a friend but I still can't help but feel happy that they are finally getting on with their story. I feel like Jude is the character with the least screen time.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 24, 2015 2:41:25 GMT -5
For the most part I like the way they're handling Jude's storyline. I just that he would have more screen time. He had that big moment( in the form of a small gesture but still, big for a 13 year old) and then nothing. They didn't even get a moment to ignore that it happened and be all awkward with each other. Then there was the second double date, which was entirely off camera. I felt like that was a bit of a cheat. If they're going to use these double dates as a way to "date" each other then I think we should see a bit of it. If that's not what it is, and they're ignoring what happened then that should be shown too. I understand there is a lot going on in the show, but then don't introduce something like that. At least not until you have time to fully explore it. Or maybe I thinking to much into it. I don't know... I agree, Jude's lack of screen time is saddening. But from the looks of the next episode's preview, it will have a big Jonnor moment <3 I can't wait for it.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 16, 2015 13:32:44 GMT -5
Well, I'm back! Luckily for you guys this might be the last in awhile since I've no more books to read at the moment. Haha
Just Between Us by J.H Trumble
Just Between Us is the third installment of J.H Trumble's books (series?) and features Luke Chesser and Curtis Cameron. It is the sequel to the first novel Don't Let Me Go, taking place 2 years after the events of that novel, and is the prequel to Where You Are, taking place one year before. Luke Chesser is now a junior and though his life is moving on, he can't help but think about the past: his failed relationship with ex-boyfriend Nate Schaper (Don't Let Me Go) and the estranged one with his father. But suddenly Luke finds love in the form of college student and band field tech Curtis Cameron. As fate would have it, Curtis finds out he is HIV positive and begins to push Luke away and thus they enter an endless game of pushes and pulls.
Review: Wow was I pleasantly surprised by this novel. As you may have noticed, this is the third installment meaning that it is the third book I've read of Trumble's. It was tons better than what I had expected, my favorite of the three. It is told in a similar style to Where You Are, first person POV, alternating between Luke and Curtis.
Luke Chesser has grown up, now knowing what he wants and more confident than we've seen him in Don't Let Me Go; he is sexy and seductive, flirty and playful, cute and adorable, but we still see his childish side: his naivete, his innocence, his temper and his sensitivity. Curtis is the boy-next-door, that nice and smart guy everyone looks up too, and with the pressure of keeping up to this expectation, he has become fearful in a way, to hide the shameful parts of his life, to bottle in his troubles.
What I love about their (Luke and Curtis) relationship is that it starts off slowly. It's rocky at the beginning but they clearly show interest in one another, and even afterwards they slowly get into the grooves of getting to know each other, spending time together . Of course it was mostly due to Curtis's fears of being potentially HIV positive but because of this build up, you really get to see the heartbreak that they go through when he is diagnosed. There relationship ends before it officially begins. The downward spiral Curtis goes through and the once again heartache Luke experiences is evident with every word Trumble writes. I really felt for the characters. It had my heart pounding numerous times throughout the book.
Once again, the supporting characters are amazing. Both the Chesser family and Cameron family have amazing characters, Matt who is funny and un-apologetically foward that fully supports and truly cares for Luke even though he is so young, Corinne and her organic foods obsession with her witty remarks and deep connection with her brother, and even the homophobic Mr. Chesser who struggles to be a better father. But we can't leave out Jaleel, whom I didn't particularly like at the beginning, and his steadfast convictions and duty as a friend, telling Curtis what he needs to hear when no one else could, and also Robert Westfall, making his appearance as Luke's confidant and partner in crime. Here is an example of Luke and Matt's brotherly bonding that made me laugh -
Matt: Nah. He's really good at tying knots. He's gonna teach me some. Hey, maybe I can fix you up with him? Luke: He's Eleven. Matt: Ten. But he'll grow up. Luke: I'm not nearly that desperate.
Rating: 4.5 / 5 What can I say, this book had me going. I knew I should have gotten some rest but it kept luring me in, whispering and coaxing me with words of sweet temptation, much like the ones Luke kept whispering to Curtis. Haha. This novel is simply fantastic. It had the same appeal as Trumble's previous works but it is more well-rounded. The MCs were lovely, I felt every emotion they did, the pain, the heartache, the anger, the confusion, the happiness. It feels like they are my best friends, that's how well Trumble has written them into existence. I love the incorporation of the MCs of the other books, it is something I will probably always love when books of a series intertwine. But where was my time jump epilogue? No where to be seen! Argh!
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 14, 2015 10:21:46 GMT -5
alohaTHOR I like your book reviews. I should definitely read more books and this gives me the inspiration to look up some new books - so thank you. Thanks, I'm just not sure if my reviews are helpful. Sometimes I reread them and I just smack myself in the face for writing something so bland. Speaking of which, I finished a new book: The Cranberry Hush by Ben Monopoli So, I was looking for a new book to read and I came across this one on a recommended list of Jay Bell's (the author of the Something Like series) so I thought, hey why not try this one out. Forgive me if any of this review is incoherent, I spent the whole night reading it and it is currently 6 something in the morning.... Vince is a twenty something year old bi man living in a state of routine and comfort. One day, he is visited by an old college friend, someone he once considered his best friend and still does, who just also happens to be the love of his life. Now, Vince must confront his lingering feelings for Griffin. Review: It is a heartbreaking and yet enlightening story about two old college roommates reuniting after a falling out. There is Griffin, a unique soul at the crossroads of his life and Vince, a bi man who works at a comic store unable to forget the unrequited love he holds for Griffin. I'm sure we have all been there before, finding ourselves falling in love with a friend whom we can't be with, seeking meaning where there is none, torturing ourselves over the feelings that would ruin your friendship, wondering why we can't just love everyone and anyone without limitations, and all the "what ifs". These are common thoughts that runs through Vince's mind as we learn about his week in the present with Griffin and their time as roommates in college. Through these experiences, you really get a feel of their relationship, they are tender and passionate, playful and refreshing; even after all the years of separation, they quickly fall back into old habits and find how easily it is being with one another, something they both missed and longed for. This novel literally had me going insane. While reading, I absolutely had no idea where the book would lead and end at, it kept me guessing. Vince (whom the novel's perspective is told from) is lost. He is caught in between what he calls the "post-college void". He longs for the familiarity of college and the good times he had with Griffin. As I read Vince's words, his thoughts, I couldn't help but hear the echo of the my own thoughts(oddly enough the guy I pined after was also named Griffin, in which I also nicknamed him Griff). The realness of Vince's character was exactly how it should be, he was confused and at times irrational. He was plagued with fears of heartache and rejection, letting his mind take rein over his heart. Not to mention that all the other characters were incredible too in their own right. Monopoli perfectly portrays Griffin as the sweet and funny guy that you can't help but love, Zane is witty and seductive, and the others are also beautifully written. There wasn't a single character I disliked. It is well-written, always a definitely plus. Every detail carefully planned and written to full effect. It has this strange and yet alluring progression from past to present that almost feels like you're watching a movie about their lives, cutting from the harsh and gritty present to a more cheerful reminiscence of the past. It was brimming with melancholy and nostalgia. Rating: 4 / 5 This novel was bittersweet but then again so is life. There are moments in our lives in which we wish we could go back to happier times but we can never do so. We move on because life does. The Cranberry Hush perfectly encaptures this idea with finesse and style. Each character is wonderfully fleshed out, they are real people, giving a more relatable vibe to the novel. The ending is an unexpected one and though I find myself wanting it to be different, I am also 100% content with it. I know I keep using the term "real" but I can't seem to find any other words to describe the novel with. It simply was how life really is. Not everything works out but that doesn't mean things aren't going to be okay. It is charming and insightful, a definite must read.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 13, 2015 8:10:34 GMT -5
Please, stop me now if I'm getting annoying with these reviews.
Not Just Friends by Jay Northcote
Lewis is off to his first year of university. He is excited and anxious about the new experience but finds himself troubled when he starts falling for one of his flatmates, and a boy at that. Lewis struggles with his growing feelings for Max and the prospect of coming out to his friends and family, while dealing with other issues.
Review (Minor Spoiler Alert) :
I'm not quite sure how I feel about this book. For the first part, the setting is in Bristol, England. It was refreshing having a setting I didn't quite know about but at the same time it confused me some times because I wouldn't understand the phrases or wordings of certain passages. I don't want to sound rude but I question the editing job on this book. There were multiple times in which I was thoroughly confused on what was happening, one such as there was simply one word in the paragraph with no punctuation of any sort (page 77). I don't know if that was a simple mistake or if it was meant to be like that but there are numerous strange wordings throughout the book. Anyway, enough about that, let's get to the actual content of the book.
The story focuses on Lewis who is presumably straight. He arrives at his university flat and becomes increasingly attracted to one of his flatmates, Max, who not only happens to be exotic, beautiful, and fit, but also gay. Lewis begins to question his sexuality and struggles with hiding his feelings after finding out Max has a boyfriend. I'm not sure if I totally buy the clueless "Omg, am I gay?" phase that Lewis goes through, though. From the beginning, you have Lewis checking out other guys, being "appreciative" about someone's brawn or how nice of a butt someone has but then near the middle of the novel he is all doe-y eyed and oblivious to the fact that he ever liked guys? I don't understand the author's choice in this decision. It's painfully clear that he was attracted to guys before and the constant comparing of his ex girlfriend to just about every guy he meets got old real fast.
To be honest, there wasn't much happening in this story. There was a lot of having tea, cooking, hitting up bars and getting drunk, and Lewis not trying to "make a tit" out of himself. And when there was important events going on, it felt too short lived. There was a lot of sex so I guess that's a plus.
That being said, I still found myself liking Lewis and Max and the other characters. They were fun and flirty and there was a playful vibe about all of them. I did think there was too little of a development between Max and Lewis at times but overall their relationship was too cute. All the characters were fantastic, I even have a soft spot for Bruno after the Louis Tomlinson incident, I had a good laugh during that part.
Rating: 3/5 The writing wasn't the best and at times it was dreadfully painful to read, it was as if they were stuck in an endless loop of falling back into the same cycle even though they both knew what they wanted, which also surprised me since Max seemed to be very forward with his feelings and thoughts except when it mattered most. It kept me relatively interested but I don't think it will be reread any time soon if at all.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 8, 2015 8:55:30 GMT -5
Well, here is another sleepless night and another book review. Kamikaze Boys by Jay Bell Meet David Henry, a high school junior who finds his life lacking. His mother left his father for another man, his only friend is the kid next door, and he is relentlessly bullied at school. One day, in the midst of a beat-down, David is rescued by the school's resident psychopath. Enter Connor Williams, a misunderstood and aimless high school senior with thousands of rumors floating around him. Forming an unlikely pair, the two begin a relationship that changes the direction of their lives. Review: What can I say, I simply love the works of Jay Bell. Kamikaze Boys is no exception. Like much of his other works, two boys who are seemingly opposites meet, fall in love, and face adversities all while trying to go on about their lives. It is a formula that Jay Bell has perfected with his fleshed-out characters and storytelling. Like always, his characters are fantastic. You really fall in love with the characters; as usual, his supporting characters were absolutely amazing. Tommy, Gordon, Sabrina, and Mr. Henry were pivotal to the story and I love that fact. Bell seems to understand that giving the characters a good foundation leads to better characterization. Not to mention that leads were witty and charming, sexy and passionate themselves which certainly was a plus. You really root for David and Connor. They are relatable. I won't say why simply because of spoilers though. Now here is the big clincher. Although not particularly bad, the decisions and actions of the characters are too ... young love-y.... you know... that part of love that makes you irrational and not think clearly? It is too big of a factor in this book for my taste. I understand they are teenagers in love for the first time but I wished that they would have at least gained some sort of independence from one another at the end. I'm all for a HEA (Happily Ever After) but I can't escape the fact that they are teens who basically set everything aside to be with one another. Rating: 3.5 / 5 The book was worth reading, most definitely. Like I said, I love Jay Bell but was this his best work? Not by far (imo). There are a few kinks here and there, the progression of their relationship really fits the description of a whirlwind romance and though it started off well, it slowed incredibly near the end. One thing I usually love is the epilogues that Bell writes in which he divulges the content of the character's lives set in the nearby future but I was disappointed in what I read.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 4, 2015 5:05:06 GMT -5
Someone, please help me. I have a problem! Haha, I'm reading books when I should be doing homework! Bleh!
Anyway, here's a review on my latest read: Where You Are by J.H Trumble
Robert Westfall's life is complicated. He has nothing in common with his boyfriend and can barely stand him, his father is terminally ill, and the extended family is making his and his mother's life a living hell. In the midst of his world being turned upside down, Robert seeks comfort in his teacher, Andrew McNelis. What initially starts as sympathetic consolation, blooms an intense and passionate love between student and teacher. The only thing they have to worry about is keeping a lid on their relationship until Robert graduates but their carnal desires might just be too wild to contain.
Review: Where You Are (I believe) is the second book in this universe. The first being Don't Let Me Go (which I reviewed before). There is another one out now, about Luke Chesser who was a supporting character in both Don't Let Me Go and Where You Are. It is called Just Between Us.
Anyway, back to Where You Are. This novel is told in first person present, something that I usually don't like but it's well written and I didn't mind as much as I usually would. It switches from the POV of the main characters Robert and Andrew, which I find nice because it gives more insight on both characters and how their actions affect one another. Yes I know, some people hate the aspect of switching POVS every chapter but it works. You aren't left wondering about anything because of this. Trumble really makes you feel for her characters, something I found difficult to do in Don't Let Me Go. Robert has so much on his plate and he's so young (I say this but I'm only a few years older than he is), not to mention that he is at a point in his life when he is starting to make decisions that will thoroughly affect his future. And when you're a teenager, the aspect of love and lost and trauma and things of that sort seem to hit you harder than it does normally. Andrew on the other hand, is a father of a 2 year old daughter with an iffy relationship with his ex-wife. He struggles to keep a cap on his personal life at school while fighting off the advances of a fellow teacher. The bond between Andrew and Robert is well developed, you really fall in love with them falling in love with each other. They are just too cute for words. It feels realistic; reading between the lines, waiting for a text, being in a good mood simply because you're in love. These are only a few of the many aspects that Trumble brings to in this novel but let me tell you, it's really well written. I am really picky when it comes to writing style, sometimes I can push through it but there are countless books that I've bought that end up dusty on my bookshelf.
Two things I would have to say is the ending is just meh. It wasn't bad per say but it was no where near the level of emotional depth that had me bawling at the end of Don't Let Me Go. Still, I find myself liking this novel more so than the first. Two, the supporting characters are barely tolerable. There really isn't a "supporting" character to the main characters in my opinion. I feel like there is just Andrew and Robert and then everyone else who is in their lives. On occasion, Luke,who in this book is a senior now (was a freshman in Don't Let Me Go, I believe), advises Robert on his problems but he is rarely in the novel and when he is it's about a paragraph. I have a huge spot in my heart for supporting characters; if you've read any of my posts about the Something Like series you'd know that. It's disappointing that there really weren't any in this novel. But then at the same time, it really builds a connection between Andrew and Robert because they can only confide in one another.
Rating: 4.5 / 5 Well written with well-developed and likeable characters. I will definitely be picking up Trumble's latest book.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Feb 1, 2015 5:57:44 GMT -5
The Race for Second by Chase Porter
Ethan is a sophomore in college, finally fulfilling one of his dreams: studying abroad. Once in Germany, Ethan finds that his expectations and the reality of living abroad are two completely different things. He wishes that everything was different: that it would be easier to make friends, that the language and culture would come more easily to him, and most of all, that his floormate Daniel would warm up to him.
Review:Let me first of all say that this book isn't for everyone, I've seen quite a few mixed reviews on the novel. I, myself, have a few qualms about the book. It is told in first person, present tense (something I don't particularly like) through the eyes of Ethan West. As stated above, he is a college student beginning his study abroad in Germany. One thing I absolutely loved was the setting. The descriptions and history of the town he moves to is probably the best thing about the book. Now back to Ethan. At times, or actually, most of the time, he is quite annoying; he comes off as selfish and frankly he is kind of an a**hole. Through most of the novel, he questions the actions of his love interest Daniel and repeatedly comes to the same conclusions yet never really actually does anything about his resolution. As you get to know more about the characters, you find that there is a deeper underlying motive of everything that happens and which gives the rest of the book a melancholic mood. There also seems to be some things that are left unexplained that I think would have contributed to a better understanding of the events that unfold. On that note, I absolutely HATE the ending. It seems like it is supposed to wrap up all the melodrama that happens but it is unsatisfying in that it really doesn't give us a conclusion. Don't get me wrong, the last lines of the book are beautifully written but it does nothing for me. The things I want to know aren't supplied by the conclusion. Instead it feels like an ending that wants to be enlightening by showing that the main character has undergone some grand transformation but really he hasn't changed that much except coming to the realization of the things he wants yet can't have.
Many reviewers of this novel claim that it isn't a romance novel and instead a novel about growing up but with the way it is set up and the synopsis of the story I find it hard to believe that romance isn't what it is set up for. Taking up most of the novel are the thoughts and feelings that Ethan has for Daniel as they grow closer to one another. Taken directly off the back of the novel: "Except as Ethan gets to know Daniel - one of his three German roommates - his resolve starts to soften. Though Daniel is initially standoffish, unpleasant, and sometimes downright hostile, the two are undeniably drawn to one another. Even Ethan's conviction that Daniel is actually straight begins to erode as they grow closer, gradually revealing a buried part of Daniel's past that will threaten to tear them apart."
Something I love about Trumble's works is that at the end of each of her novels, there is a set of discussion questions about the book and the musical influences. It really gets one thinking and at times it makes me feel like these books can be read in a high school classroom or something (I might be exaggerating but it's a nice though).
Rating: 3/5 - Although I didn't like a lot of the things about the book, it wasn't a terrible read. I was engrossed enough that I finished the book in one reading and although it was predictable at times, the overall story was refreshing in that it didn't deal with coming out or being bullied, also the fact that it took place in Germany. Plus, I loved the supporting character Niko.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Jan 17, 2015 13:05:22 GMT -5
Aw, no s3? Lame.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Jan 5, 2015 6:35:48 GMT -5
Ahh, I watched all of these! I totally agree with Jay about Ben! I really like the cast, I think they all really fit their characters well. Especially Ben and Jace! (Except that Ben's, Austin McKenzie, eyes are green! Now they can't use that in the movie D:)
Have you read his other book Kamikaze Boys? Do you recommend it?
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Post by alohaTHOR on Jan 3, 2015 8:59:10 GMT -5
i really liked Caeser at first, but then i really didn't like him after what happened with him dating someone else (Jason kinda bugged me when he was being so pushy though). i really liked Jason and William together too. i won't say more until you finish it Finished it yesterday, about 30 mins after I posted. I loved Spring though, Jason is a cutie, Ben and Tim are adorable, Michelle and the fam are back! The characters were great, I'm so glad I (we, readers) get to know what happens to Ben and Tim after Summer/Winter and how Spring incorporates characters of the other books, Michelle is fantastic and so is Greg. I love Jace as always. But I wish that there had been a little more of Allison. There was hardly a part I didn't like. Now, the boys. Maybe it was because this book had a completely new character as the protagonist that I found the story more compelling than some of the others (Autumn still being my favorite but Spring a close second). I liked the comparisons some of the characters made between Jace and Jason and as I read on, I did see some similarities but also the distinct differences Jay intentionally put out, like Jason hating fortune cookies. It was like reading a story about Jace again but an ending where he didn't die. I can see why you said Jason bugged you because he did annoy me too. It's like... sure you are in love with Caesar but he's in love with someone else. Don't do anything stupid. But I can see where he is coming from. He's a teenage boy in love for the first time. It's difficult to fight all the hormones, especially after what happened that day. Anyway, I liked his character progression into adulthood and I liked that he stayed friends with Stephanie, although I would have liked to see more of their friendship after high school. I, like Jason, completely am at a lost about what I want to do about my future so I guess I can relate to him. But where is my cute gay couple that will adopt me? Then comes his friendship with Emma and my god, they are so cute together. Absolutely adorable how they are so playful and caring, willing to do crazy things for each other. Anyway, William is a godsend. I'll admit, he seemed to good to be true, even with his convictions about Kelly. Other than that he was so sweet and I love his milky skin (is that weird since I have never or will ever get to see him?)! I really didn't want him to leave because I wanted them to be together forever. Those last 50 pages I was completely not sure how things were going to turn out. As usual, Jay Bell likes to keep us hanging on til the very end to reveal whom will be together. This was of course before Caesar had messaged him and before William had come back. But when they did, I was conflicted. I liked Caesar. He was cool and mysterious but he broke Jason's heart. Maybe a second chance was worth it, people mature after all. But William loved him. And Jason obviously loved William. It was clear as day. His talk with Ben only proved so. I'm really glad that they got together at the end! Sorry I wrote so much... I'm not even sure I said all that I wanted. Haha, now I've got to start on Lightning. Anyway, today I read "If I Told You So" by Timothy Woodward. It is another Gay YA book about a teenager coming out. More precisely, Sean is a 16 year old boy who takes a job at an ice cream parlor, owned by the infamous lesbian Renee. There, he begins to fall for the manager, Jay, and must confront his own feelings of liking other boys and coming out to his family. Although it does in fact have the plot line of Sean and Jay, this book is more about the relationships Sean has with his mother and father, and his friends Becky, Lisa, and Matt and of course, learning to be okay with being gay. To be honest, it does get a bit dramatic and boring at times but it definitely isn't a bad read.
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Post by alohaTHOR on Jan 2, 2015 16:46:51 GMT -5
It carries on, because after you meet the newest character in Spring, Jay Bell spins off two minor characters from that book into Lightning and the upcoming Something Like Thunder. I just love when a an author can create their own worlds and can connect all the characters in some way or another. So Dalia, I'm almost finished with Spring, about 50 or so pages left. I just wanted to know if you preferred Caesar or William? (Don't spoil it for me though! Haha)
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