Nantucket Red by Leila Howland.

Cricket Thompson's lifetime of overachieving has paid off: she's headed to Brown University in the fall, with a spot on the lacrosse team and a scholarship that covers almost everything. Who knew living in the dorm cost money? An Ivy League education seems to mean living at home for the next four years.
When Cricket is offered the chance to earn enough cash to afford a real college experience, she heads back to Nantucket for the summer. But the faraway island challenges Cricket in ways she hadn't anticipated. It's hard to focus on earning money for next year, when she finds her world opening up in entirely new ways-to art, to travel, and, most unexpectedly, to a future completely different from the one she has been working toward her whole life. A friendship blossoms with Ben, the gorgeous surfer and bartender who encourages Cricket to be free, even as she smarts at the pain of seeing Zack, her first love, falling for her worst enemy.
But one night, when Cricket finally lets herself break all her own rules, she realizes she may have ruined her carefully constructed future with one impulsive decision. Cricket must dig deep to fight for her future, discovering that success isn't just about reaching goals, but also about listening to what she's been trying to ignore-her own heart.

Thoughts!

I was initially unsure about a sequel to Nantucket Blue as I loved the book but I did want more resolution which Nantucket Red provided and more!
I loved that we got a sweeping overview of Cricket's year so the book was mainly set during the summer.
Cricket was the same great character. I loved her determination to equal the money offered to her so she could go to her dream college. I liked seeing her and Jules on better terms although I'm still not a fan of Jules! Nantucket had barely changed in a year so Cricket just slotted back in. I loved Liz returning and the way her character had developed and matured. I even liked Ben, because he was honest and almost a male version of Cricket, relationship wise. Zac was really frustrating this book! The way their relationship petered out initially was annoying but Zac's reaction and subsequent actions were just... I did enjoy the fact this book seemed less heavy with painful drama and more coming of age complete with the confusing love life!
I loved the ending the choices Cricket made. She really proved to be mature self sufficient and independent, secure in her goals and relationships. Overall Nantucket Red is a lovely positive summer read about a girl growing into herself and a fun summer community.

Rating

Nantucket Red is a brilliant companion to Nantucket Blue. It adds depth to the characters, expands on their background as well as being strong enough to standalone.

 Have you read the Nantucket books?
Much love!
Lettie
Xxx

My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick.

"One thing my mother never knew, and would disapprove of most of all, was that I watched the Garretts. All the time."The Garretts are everything the Reeds are not. Loud, messy, affectionate. And every day from her rooftop perch, Samantha Reed wishes she was one of them . . . until one summer evening, Jase Garrett climbs up next to her and changes everything.
As the two fall fiercely for each other, stumbling through the awkwardness and awesomeness of first love, Jase's family embraces Samantha - even as she keeps him a secret from her own. Then something unthinkable happens, and the bottom drops out of Samantha's world. She's suddenly faced with an impossible decision. Which perfect family will save her? Or is it time she saved herself?
A transporting debut about family, friendship, first romance, and how to be true to one person you love without betraying another.

Thoughts!

Why didn't I read this earlier?? It's been on my tbr since it released in 2012- it was so worth the wait!
     My Life Next Door is a layered traditional contemporary summer book with twists and well written characters. It wasn't cliché as I'd anticipated.
    Samantha Reid was a great lead. I found her sweet and hard working if a little naïve. I love how she slotted into her life next door as she seemed to be a bit neglected at home especially with her sister gone and her Mum otherwise occupied. Jase was such a welcoming and generous male lead. He wasn't a cliché good or bad guy he was simply a well rounded mature teenager. I loved how he took on responsibilities for his family but would occasionally complain. I liked how he treated Samantha and how easy going he was.
    My Life Next Door has a well written individual side cast with all their own issues and personalities. The Garretts were such a vibrant family with so many different personalities. It was easy to see how and why Samantha was attracted and intrigued by them as they were so different to her family. I loved how all of them had positive attitudes and were well adjusted enough to rise above other's prejudices. I could probably write a detailed profile of each of them so I'll curtail my love of the siblings. Dad was a steady and pragmatic man with his approach to providing for his family, I loved how he was honest with Tim but still trusted him as an employee.
    Which brings me to Nan and Tim. Nan was a more complex character than she seemed. Initially I took her for a good friend if a little snobby but as the book progressed it became clear that she was exceedingly rude, cruel and entitled. Her apparent concern for Tim masked a deep jealously and I defiantly think she's heading for a breakdown. Tim was my breakout character, I loved him. Tim really developed and grew over the course of the book. I liked how he flourished under the positive encourage of the Garretts and Sam. Sam and Tim's friendship was resurrected and it was clear to see how they had grown apart and refreshing to see a platonic strong friendship which developed. I also loved his interactions with the Garretts, how he stepped up when needed and his banter with Alice.
    Samantha's Mum was another surprisingly complex character. She projected the image of career driven and confident involved Mum but it became clear that she wasn't as confident in herself as she seemed. I couldn't believe how her plot twisted and turned especially her sudden disregard for Samantha despite her initial concerns over how and where she spent her summer.
    My Life Next Door was primarily character driven, the plot itself was a clever manipulation of prominent clichés such as boy next door, rich/poor divide.
I loved the summery setting the town was big enough for the whole story to largely stay in one place. I loved the positioning of the summer jobs, the country club etc. It was like a storybook American summer town which was the perfect setting for My Life Next Door.

Rating!

My Life Next Door is the perfect summer read full of well crafted unique characters and a interesting original plot.

 

Are you a long time fan of My Life Next Door?

Are you excited for Tim to get his own book?

Much Love!

Lettie

Xxx

Fragile Line by Brooklyn Skye

It can happen in a flash. One minute she’s kissing her boyfriend, the next she’s lost in the woods. Sixteen-year-old Ellie Cox is losing time. It started out small…forgetting a drive home or a conversation with a friend. But her blackouts are getting worse, more difficult to disguise as forgetfulness. When Ellie goes missing for three days, waking up in the apartment of a mysterious guy—a guy who is definitely not her boyfriend, her life starts to spiral out of control. 
Perched on the edge of insanity, with horrific memories of her childhood leaking in, Ellie struggles to put together the pieces of what she’s lost—starting with the name haunting her, Gwen. Heartbreakingly beautiful, this poignant story follows one girl’s harrowing journey to finding out who she really is.

I loved Brooklyn's first book Stripped that I was intrigued by Fragile Lines' mysterious blurb.
Thoughts
Ellie's early narrative was so jagged and quick you could really identify with her confusion. I found Ellie to be endearing if rather passive to begin with but she definitely grew in strength and conviction as the book continued. Gwen's narrative provided a much more sturdy and linear grasp of time and actions. Although manipulative and selfish Gwen did seem to be quite vulnerable. It was interesting to see how her personality adjusted and altered as the book went on. Both narratives were compelling to read. Shane and Griffin presented another dimension to the narrative as their questions often prompted Ellie or Gwen to focus on a certain moment. I can't go into too much detail surrounding the plot or characters as this book is full of twists and turns that I don't want to give away! The supporting characters were all brilliantly characterised and had important individual roles in Ellie and Gwen's stories.

Rating!

I really enjoyed Fragile Line I found it to be realistic as well as compelling and the characters were beautifully written!
 
Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway


Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Panic by Lauren Oliver.

Panic began as so many things do in Carp, a dead-end town of 12,000 people in the middle of nowhere: because it was summer, and there was nothing else to do.
Heather never thought she would compete in Panic, a legendary game played by graduating seniors, where the stakes are high and the payoff is even higher. She’d never thought of herself as fearless, the kind of person who would fight to stand out. But when she finds something, and someone, to fight for, she will discover that she is braver than she ever thought.
Dodge has never been afraid of Panic. His secret will fuel him, and get him all the way through the game, he’s sure of it. But what he doesn't know is that he’s not the only one with a secret. Everyone has something to play for.
For Heather and Dodge, the game will bring new alliances, unexpected revelations, and the possibility of first love for each of them—and the knowledge that sometimes the very things we fear are those we need the most.
Why?
I was intrigued to read something contemporary from Lauren Oliver.

What I loved:
Concept- I loved the concept of Panic. It was so well thought out and all the potential holes, such as why no one told, were clearly covered. I liked that you never really understood the games or the participants fully. All the motives were different and the challenges were surprisingly intuitive.
Setting- I found Carp to be the perfect setting for Panic. The implied demographics of the town explained the popularity and anticipation of Panic. It was clear why so many people felt they needed to win and were willing to lie and betray others. The layout and seclusion of the town was also perfect for the playing of the game with lots of different spots for the game to take place without anyone else knowing!
Viewpoints- I enjoyed Heather and Dodge's viewpoints. They had slightly different backgrounds and motivations but started out as underdogs. I liked that they gave such different interpretations of scenarios and it was interesting to see what they did and did not pick up on. I loved that it revealed the corruption, decisions of side characters as well. I also found that despite the two viewpoints both characters still surprised me throughout the book!
Characters- The whole cast of characters were brilliantly distinctive and well written. I enjoyed all of their individual backgrounds and interactions but I'm going to comment on my favourites! I liked Nat especially seeing her from the two viewpoints, it was clear to see that her initial portrayal as just a popular girl was a façade as she had hidden depths, motivations and issues. Bishop and Heather's interactions and relationship also had hidden depths, and as the game progressed it became more and more complicated. I loved their easy friendship in the beginning and how obvious their feelings towards each other were. Anne was completely outside of the Carp/Panic world and seemed like a level headed person willing to offer Heather a decent job as well as encouraging her to do more with herself. I really enjoyed the extra layer she brought to the book.
 
What I Didn't love:
Lack of resolution- I felt the book could of done with an epilogue to give a more in depth ending or at least one more chapter from Dodge's point of view. I'm still wondering why certain characters did what they did!  I also felt some issues were skirted over e.g. Nat's possible Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

Rating

I really enjoyed the concept and structure of Panic and all the twists and turns!

Have you read Panic?
Leave me a link to your review below if you've reviewed it!
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Thoughts on Searching for Beautiful by Nyrae Dawn.

Before, Brynn had a group of best friends, a loving boyfriend, a growing talent for pottery. She had a life. And after…she had none.

When Brynn lost the boyfriend who never loved her, the friends who feel she betrayed their trust, and the new life just beginning to grow inside her, she believes her future is as empty as her body. But then Christian, the boy next door, starts coming around. Playing his guitar and pushing her to create art once more. She meets some new friends at the local community center, plus even gets her dad to look her in the eye again…sort of.

But can Brynn open up her heart to truly find her life’s own beauty, when living for the after means letting go of the before?

I've been a fan of Nyrae Dawn since I started blogging, I've read the majority of her books and reviewed a few as well as interviewing her. Naturally I assumed I'd love her latest Young Adult title.... But I didn't. I'm not even sure why I just couldn't get into it. A couple of the characters grated on me I suppose but that's happened before and I've still enjoyed the book hmmm...

Bottom Line
I only skimmed Searching for Beautiful but I still found it to be beautifully written with great realistic characterisation. It seemed to cover many themes successfully with a positive moral message that avoided being preachy! I am disappointed that I didn't love, or even finish,this title like the rest of Nyrae's books but I would still recommend picking it up yourself!

Let me know if you love it!
Much Love
Lettie
Xxx

Blog Tour: A Sliver of Hope by Karla J. Nellenbach

My twin sister was the only person in the world I thought I’d known inside and out. Apparently, I was wrong.
Twin sisters share a unique bond, one that can't be broken by miles, time, or even death. Hannah and Hope Morton are no exception. When Hope takes her own life, Hannah loses a sister and a best friend, a catastrophe she isn't sure she'll survive herself.
With her family in ruins, Hannah is slowly disappearing, drowning in a sea of misery. Even her wild, energetic best friend can't pull her out of her grief. Desperate to help Hannah, her brother comes home from college, bringing his best friend Julian along, the first boy to break Hannah’s heart. None of their efforts are enough to pull Hannah off her self destructive path, though. Julian is the only one who can get through to her, working his way into her frozen soul with cocky remarks and genuine love that warms her from the inside out.
As Hannah works to find answers, she continues to uncover new secrets and people that reveal a side of Hope she had never shared with her twin. Alone now, Hannah must make a decision of her own: move on and start a new life with the people she has left, or let the weight of her grief drag her down with her sister.


What I Loved:
Hannah- Hannah was quintessentially the quiet girl of her family,  content to live in the shadow of her bolder louder twin sister Hope. It was heart breaking to read her reaction to the loss of Hope but it was a very realistic portrayal. I liked how she slowly learnt to deal with Hope's death and recognise that she wasn't responsible directly or indirectly for Hope's actions. I really connected with Hannah's character, she came across as sympathetic and strong.
Support Cast- The side cast were far more of a support cast for Hannah. Glory, her best friend was so vibrant, I loved how she knew when and how far to push Hannah. She was brilliantly supportive at all times even when she was unsure of how to deal with Hannah. Julian, I loved how he didn't treat Hannah too different and how he tried to take his cues from her. I  adored their beach days and how he gave glimpses of Hannah before Hope's death, I really loved them together! Doug, seemed like such a good brother and protective even when his best friend was involved. I liked the mysterious Billy, I really felt for him and how out of the loop he must of felt. 
Journal- I adored the writing style. The journal layout was perfect, it gave a real insight to how Hannah was coping and gave Hope a personality and character. I liked how it explored Hannah's memories and thoughts as well as relaying what was actually happening in the present.

What I didn't love as much:
Hope- I know suicide never has answers but I definitely wanted more! There was so much unknown about her life!

Final Thoughts!
I really enjoyed going through Hannah's journey of grief from the discovery of Hope's body to the resolution. I loved the honesty and raw emotions. I adored the side cast and seeing them through Hannah's eyes.

Check out the rest of the blog tour!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Have you read any similar books you'd recommend?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Blog Tour: Nantucket Blue by Leila Howland

 

For Cricket Thompson, a summer like this one will change everything. A summer spent on Nantucket with her best friend, Jules Clayton, and the indomitable Clayton family. A summer when she’ll make the almost unattainable Jay Logan hers. A summer to surpass all dreams.
Some of this turns out to be true. Some of it doesn’t. 

When Jules and her family suffer a devastating tragedy that forces the girls apart, Jules becomes a stranger whom Cricket wonders whether she ever really knew. And instead of lying on the beach working on her caramel-coloured tan, Cricket is making beds and cleaning bathrooms to support herself in paradise for the summer.

But it’s the things Cricket hadn’t counted on--most of all, falling hard for someone who should be completely off-limits--that turn her dreams into an exhilarating, bittersweet reality.
A beautiful future is within her grasp, and Cricket must find the grace to embrace it. If she does, her life could be the perfect shade of Nantucket blue.

Why?
Nantucket Blue was on my 2013 radar for ages so when I caught wind of this blog tour I was so excited!

First Impressions!
The first chapter brilliantly set up the cast of characters and Cricket's world view through a game of lacrosse. It felt unique and I was instantly drawn in.

What I loved:
Cricket- I loved Cricket! I really felt for her with her divorced parents and the ending of her surrogate family. I loved how she grew so much during one summer. She started out as a girl who had dealing with her parent's divorce by immersing herself in her best friend's family and believed heavily in her ideals of people, but she ended as a girl secure in her own worth, independent and self sufficient.
Diary feel- The whole book felt like Cricket's personal diary with all her thoughts and feelings laid bare. This increased with the addition of her mum's actual diary entries that popped up. It made Cricket's emotions and issues much more real and authentic.
Side Cast- I loved the side cast. Jules, I felt for her but she was at times unfairly harsh to Cricket especially with Jay. I loved Zack he really owned who he was and showed Cricket true friendship despite his own situation. I loved how brash Liz was and how she was so friendly towards Cricket. George, I liked how his project really connected Cricket to the Nantucket and opened up a surprising plot line. The whole Nantucket community had such a feel of community and all the different personalities even the horrible ones added to the feel of the book.
Twists- I loved all the little twists and turns! I guessed a few and a few shocked me! They all really added to the plot, the flow of the story and kept me guessing
Setting- The setting was what initially drew me in and I really enjoyed it! It was removed from Cricket's comfort zone forcing her to adapt to the situation. I loved the small community feel and the isolation.
Timeframe- I loved how summer framed the book from beginning to end. Summer is always a magical time and this book explores that time through so many different avenues. I liked that the book ended at the end of summer, even though I do want to read more I think it was the best ending point for such a summery read.

What I didn't love as much:
Resolution- The book did end at the end of summer which was appropriate but I wanted more resolution! Especially between Cricket and her Dad and with Jules!
Cricket's Dad- I was appalled by her father's lack of enthusiasm in his own daughter! He'd divorced his wife not his children. He put more thought, effort and expense into his new wife's son's 6th birthday than his own daughter's 18th and was surprised that she was upset! Cricket's mum may have been abit vacant but she clearly adored her daughter the same could not be said for her Dad!

 

I really enjoyed this book and I know I'll be dipping in and out of it for ages it was the perfect combination of light sweet beach read and serious contemporary!

 

Will you be giving Nantucket Blue a try?

Much Love!
Lettie

Xxx



Divergent by Veronica Roth

In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago world, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue--Candor, Abnegation , Dauntless, Amity, and Erudite. On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is--she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.
During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles alongside her fellow initiates to live out the choice they have made. Together they must undergo extreme physical tests of endurance and intense psychological simulations, some with devastating consequences. As initiation transforms them all, Tris must determine who her friends really are--and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes exasperating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers unrest and growing conflict that threaten to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her...

I put this book off for ages- what a mistake! It lives up to the hype and more!

What I loved:
Tris-  I admired her determination and drive! At times she really frustrated me with naivety and her inability to take direction but she was genuinely a good person. I loved how supportive she could be when needed and how she honoured the actual principles of Dauntless without losing the best parts of Abnegation.
Four- What an intriguing character! Hard to discuss him without spoiling it! I loved that I was able to guess the secret and still be intrigued and surprised. I liked how Four was withdrawn and low key but knew how to command respect and always seemed to be adhering to the basic principals of Dauntless
Side Characters- I loved the side cast! All the new Dauntless initiates were so diverse and had such contrasting motivations it was interesting to see how they coped with the pressures of initiation. I especially loved how Tris interacted both the Dauntless initiates and the Transfers. I liked getting to see the Abnegation people even briefly and I liked all the little insights in to the other sections through the side characters.
Setting- The setting was heavily influenced by the concept and the plot, each section had a part of the city. I liked how Abnegation was laid out and how Tris explained how the city was laid out as a whole. I'm really intrigued by what the rest of the world is like outside of the city and how they became the way they are!
Concept- I really liked this concept of Dystopia! I liked how it was based on personality not jobs or wealth. I loved the 5 different sections- very clever personality divisions. It was all explained really well seeing as it was Tris's point of view and she only had personal experience of two of them. My friend and I spent ages discussing which section we'd be in.
Fear landscapes- I loved this idea! It was a clever way to rank the initiates and really revealed the deeper fears that everyone has. I think it also showed the true meaning of Dauntless- not the absence of fear itself but the courage to work through the fear.

What I didn't love as much:
Character decisions- I loved Tris but my gosh she was told to lie low and she just didn't! She didn't seem to have any self preservation! I also disliked some the inevitable decisions
No Principles- Some of the initiates were so ruthless and cruel and  they got away with it. Fearlessness is not cruelty!

I loved this book- I can't believe i put it off for so long! Both my friend and her dad borrowed it while we were on holiday!

Did you love Divergent?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxxx

Speechless by Hannah Harrington

Everyone knows that Chelsea Knot can’t keep a secret

Until now. Because the last secret she shared turned her into a social outcast—and nearly got someone killed.

Now Chelsea has taken a vow of silence—to learn to keep her mouth shut, and to stop hurting anyone else. And if she thinks keeping secrets is hard, not speaking up when she’s ignored, ridiculed and even attacked is worse.

But there’s strength in silence, and in the new friends who are, shockingly, coming her way—people she never noticed before; a boy she might even fall for. If only her new friends can forgive what she’s done. If only she can forgive herself.

I've wanted to read Hannah Harrington since Saving June so I jumped at the chance to request this one on NetGalley!

What I loved:

• Chelsea- I loved Chelsea! Yes she was obviously flawed but she had a very strong character- most teenage girls gossip but no one thinks of the consequences. I think it said alot about Chelsea that she shared the gossip because she was intrigued not that she was disgusted or judgemental. She was brave enough to recognise her role and reported it despite the consequences. I thought it was realistic to portray her as occasionally fantasising about what life would be like without confessing and missing Kirsten. I loved how being mute really enhanced  her character and how she developed relationships with new friends. 
• Sam- I have so much love for him- he is the kind of guy who gets over looked in school but is really sweet and decent! I liked how he gave Chelsea a chance and got to know her despite her lack of talking. He was in a difficult position as Noah's best friend but he didn't judge Chelsea or treated her too harshly. He was such a good friend to Asha and how he battled with how to treat Noah after the incident- it made him very relatable and realistic.
• Diner Crew- I really enjoyed the whole vibe of the diner and the staff! I loved Asha, she was so warm and sweet. I loved how quirky she was! Dex and L, exactly the kind of fun loving couple you imagine owning a retro diner couple I would love to work for them! I liked the dynamic between Andy and Chelsea and how it developed- he could see that she hadn't envisioned the consequences and Chelsea knew she owned him an apology.
• Plot- I loved the subject matter! People assume homophobic attacks happen 'other places' with people they don't know. However two guys who Chelsea thought she knew turned out to be violent bigots. I think it was an important message on discrimination and gossip.

What I didn't love as much:

• Kirsten- Such a mean girl! She was so selfish and self absorbed- she knew what they would do and didn't even attempt to stop them. I thought the way she threw Chelsea to the wolves was awful- they had been BFFs for years! 
• School System- Chelsea was publicly involved in a violent incidence and then stopped talking and none of the teachers or counsellors really attempted to check on her!!!

I absolutely loved the themes and the characters!

Is Saving June just as good?

Much Love!

Lettie

Xxx



The Kiss Off Blog Tour- Sequel!

 
Hopefully you've read my review of The Kiss Off and you want to know if you can read more about Poppy's adventures?
Well..... The Kiss Off 2 is coming 2013!

The Kiss Off 2 will include:

• A road trip with an unexpected passenger.
• Camping.
• The realization too late that they don't actually like camping.
• Sunburns.
• Accidental topless swimming.
• Paparazzi punch ups.
• A news-worthy (yet totally false) love triangle.
• Obsessed fan girls.
• A stalker.
• And an overwhelming request from someone super-famous.

 Here's a short extract to tided you over until then!

 

The money's in! Poppy's royalties for penning the accidental hit song

The Kiss Off that shot her boyfriend's band to super-stardom are in

and she knows EXACTLY what she's doing with it.

 

“See that?” I said, pointing at the feature band name on the flyer.

“Academy of Lies are headlining Bay Fest over in Tallulah Shores.”

“They’re headlining? Are you serious?” Mads said.

I grinned. “Pack your bags, baby.”

“Shut up.”

“Two words: road trip,” I said. “One word: camping.”

“Shut up.”

“Five wor — is it five? Yeah — five words: One week by the sea.”

“Shut up.”

“Four more words-”

“Enough with the words already.”

“I’m nearly done,” I said, “four final words: you, me and Van.”

She bit her bottom lip, staring at me when her hands started wringing

in front of her again. And she started bouncing.

“No,” I said, “no, no. You shut up. You start screaming again and

you’re not coming.”

Instead, Mads squeezed me in a bear hug and planted a kiss on my

cheek. “I’m going to Babe Fest. I’m going to Babe Fest!”

Bay Music Festival. Of all the nicknames in the world, it could have

been a lot worse.

 

Sounds even more fabulous than the Kiss Off!!

What do you think?

Much Love!

Lettie

Xxx

 

The Kiss Off Blog Tour!

 

When sixteen year old Poppy Douglas writes a song about her ex-boyfriend Cam and ex-friend Nikki, she has no idea that her heartbreak is about to go global.

A local band picks up her song from Youtube and soon she’s along for the ride with her own fanbase as they blow up on the local club scene and hit the international charts. Though it turns out leaving Cam behind isn’t as easy as she had hoped.

Tangled in a web of unfinished homework, ill-considered sexting and a new lead-singer boyfriend, Poppy has a choice to make between the ex that inspired it all and the rock God whose poster lines the inside of half the lockers at school. But as she struggles to keep her emotional dirty laundry private, she learns that the truth can be hard to find when your life is in the headlines!

 

 

Welcome to the Kiss Off Blog Tour! This is the first of two posts! *due to a scheduling error it's actually the second!*
I loved the sound of Kiss Off so I was thrilled to get a chance to read it!

What I loved:

• Poppy- I loved how spontaneous she was! She literally just picked a random boy, recorded songs when she felt it. I think the way she dealt with Cam and Nikki was very realistic, regardless of semantics it was a betrayal- the song was only an issue as it was so popular! The whole 'sexting' issue was again realistic- Her snap decision to send it was based on the very real anxieties of any girl separated from their new boyfriend, especially one who feels she has been cheated on before. At least he realised it was stupid straight away! I  
• Youtube/music- I loved the role Youtube and Music played in the book it made it seem very current! I liked how casual Poppy and her friends were about her uploading her songs until 'Kiss Off' exploded! I thought her parents were a little uninvolved with it- they really could of learnt alot about Poppy's life by watching her videos!
• Plot- I really enjoyed the plot, it was a bit familiar but the characters and inclusion of Youtube freshened it up!
• Ty- Who wouldn't like a charming musician?? I liked how he was honest and laid all his cards out. I felt a bit sorry for him as his fame escalated because it made everything so much harder for him! I would of liked to read more of him..
• Side cast- I always love a good side cast! What I liked most about this one was the variety! Most main characters have one or two 'main' friends and then a few nondescript ones throw in. Ty had distinct friends and Poppy actually had a variety of different friends! They were all well written and individual. I think Mads was my favourite- I'd actually love to read her story!

What I didn't love as much:

• Poppy- I think what I liked and disliked about her most was how she really frustrated me and annoyed me like any teenager would! She was stubborn and very wishy washy! Also if some guy recorded my song and made it a hit my first question would be, where's my cheque?! Poppy did not seem at all bothered despite the fact she was struggling to save up for a car....
• Cam- I didn't really understand why his role seemed to morph into a completely different one halfway through... I didn't buy Poppy and him together, if he liked her so much regardless of how forward Nikki was, he would have waited for her to come home to actually talk to her before jumping in to another relationship. I also disliked how easily Poppy let him off the hook compared to Ty!
• Location- When I found out the author was from Australia I was super excited to read a book set in Australia! I was quite disappointed when I realised it wasn't. Nothing wrong with location, I just would have preferred Australia!
• Warning/Rating- The Goodreads description has a warning of sexual references and coarse language. I didn't think there was any 'real' coarse language and the sexual references were realistic to the age group the book is aimed at. I've read similar books with no warning and far worse situations!

 

I really enjoyed the central, plot, the reality of the characters and the inclusion of Youtube!

I'm so excited for the sequel- I posted a sneak peek!
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxxx

Shallow by Georgia Cates

 

Welcome to the Shallow Blog Tour!! 

 

Payton Archer's best friend, Claire, strives to be perfect in every way. Payton doesn't and this is her story.

Nick Hawke likes his car fast and his girls even faster. He blows through females quicker than his muscle car races down the "The Strip" in Collinsville and he wouldn’t have it any other way. Determined to avoid the devastation he has watched his father endure in the aftermath of his mother leaving, he believes there is no room in his life or his heart for a relationship lasting more than one night. He seeks happiness in things that won’t let him down...fast cars, adrenaline and one night stands. To his absolute dismay, all of that changes when he unexpectedly runs into an old friend and is introduced to Payton Archer, the first girl he ever wanted for more than one night. There’s only one catch...she is completely immune to him and his smooth talking ways.

Payton Archer is looking for what Claire has with Jessie, but she has given up on finding it...at least until she leaves for college in the fall because she is certain that is where she will find the perfect guy to fit into her perfect world. She plans on summer being nothing but three uneventful months of fun, but it turns out to be anything but ordinary when Payton is introduced to Nick Hawke, one of Jessie’s old Collinsville friends. She is shocked by her immediate and intense attraction for “Hawke” because nothing about him is what Payton is looking for. Sure, he’s hot and sexy but he comes from Collinsville and that is definitely not on her list of prerequisites. Everything about him makes Payton’s heart speed because he is exciting and dangerous, but his fast car and the dangerous chances he takes aren't what scares Payton the most...it’s the way Nick Hawke makes her feel every time he looks at her. Can Payton find that moment of total fearlessness and make the decision to leave the safe, shallow end of love to risk going under completely?

 

I loved Going Under so I was excited to read more about Payton, Claire's feisty best friend! This book delivered above and beyond what I was anticipating!
 

What I loved:

• Payton- I loved her feistiness in Going Under and I just loved it more in Shallow. I found it much easier to relate to Payton than Claire. I liked that underneath all the armour she was just a girl who wanted real love and wouldn't settle for less! I did find her slightly ott on judging other girls who had lower standards than her.
• Nick- I loved him! Such a good bad boy! I loved that he had morals and ambition for himself and his family. He hadn't been the luckiest guy but he was making the most of his life. I liked how self assured he seemed when it came to Payton initially.
• Dallas- She was so sweet! I loved her relationship with Nick, she completely believed in him even when he didn't believe in himself. I thought it showed a lot about the nature of their relationship that Nick was willing to invite her to hang out with Payton, Jess and Claire straight away. I loved her with Dane, such a cute seemingly uncomplicated relationship!
• Jessie/Claire/Payton- I loved this triangle! Jessie is the boyfriend you always hope your best friend will get. Friendly and protective of you and a genuinely good guy for your friend. I loved how well Jessie understood Payton, he knew when to step in and when to back off.
• Epilogue- There are few things I love more than epilogues which give you the perfect glimpse into the future of the characters!

What I didn't love as much: 

• More- I wanted more! I would have liked to read more of Payton in Nick's world and more of them together in general!
• Tilly- Could not believe her! I won't spoil but she made me so angry!

I loved this slightly more than Going Under but they are a great set of companion books!

*Just heard Dallas and Dane are getting their own book!!* So excited!

Opinions on Shallow?
Much Love!
Lettie
xxx

Loving Summer by Kailin Gow

 

Welcome to my stop on the Loving Summer Blog Tour! I've been wanting to read this for ages so I am super excited to be part of the blog tour!

Summer has always looked forward to spending her summers at her Aunt's beach house with the Donovans. To her, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house was magical, especially getting to spend time with the Donovans - her best friend Rachel and Rachel's brothers Nathaniel, and Drew. Here at Aunt Sookie's beach house, they can be anyone and anything they dreamed. For Summer, she had always wished to become as pretty as Rachel and for her brothers to think of her as more than Rachel's friend. For Nat and Drew, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house meant fun and escape, a place where they go to with their mom and sister for the summer, away from city life. They never thought this summer would be different. They never thought things would change as much as they did...and it all began with them falling for and loving Summer.

 It was much better than I'd expected! I've seen a lot of people comparing this to the Summer trilogy but I couldn't make it through the first book whereas I devoured Loving Summer!

 

What I loved:

• Drew-  I loved Drew! He was so witty and sneaky when it came to Summer and Astor! I loved when he interrupted their Disneyworld date. I also felt sorry for him as he was clearly deeper than anyone really thought and was so used to being second or even third best that he wasn't even surprised.. Excited to see more of him
• Sookie- l loved how much she had impacted the lives of Summer, Rachael, Drew and Nat with her acting classes, games and advice! She was so good with each of them, knowing what they needed and what they wanted- brilliant summer guardian!
• Summer- I did like her but she annoyed me- Nat, Drew  and Astor blew hot and cold but she seemed to lack any passionate feelings for any of them and even when she picked one she didn't strongly discourage the others. I loved her work at the acting school and her determination to be a good friend and niece.
• Viewpoints- I always mention how much I love different viewpoints and Loving Summer ticked the box for me! I loved how the prologue was from Rachel's pov and then how Drew got two chapters from his viewpoint - it really added insight and made the different characters more relatable.

What I didn't love as much:

• Rachel- My main issue was I wished I could have seen more of her! As Summer's best friend, she really was not around much and she seemed to get into a relationship very quickly.....
• Astor- I found Astor to be a bit too much too fast. He seemed a nice enough guy but it seemed like the added competition of Drew and Nat enhance his efforts. Nat on the other hand seemed to be a mix and disinterested and inappropriately jealous!
• Ending- It was such a tease of an ending! It hinted at where Summer was and how the competition was still on!

I really enjoyed this, it was so much deeper than I'd expected with a few surprising twists!
 
Have you read any of Kailin Gow's books?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxxx
 

Tour organised by

Swell by Julie Rieman Duck.

Welcome to my stop on the Swell Blog Tour!

When Christian Rusch plucks Beck Ionesco from the freshman ranks for himself, she’s tempted with parties, popularity, and love. But as the free-flowing booze that soaks his world seeps into her own, Beck begins using liquid courage as a way to ignore Christian’s dark moods… and cover her anxiety about his flirtatious friend Hillman.

However, when Christian breaks up with Beck, and Hillman makes a dangerous move, no amount of alcohol can stop the pain or keep her out of trouble. And just when it seems like she’s lost everything, Beck is partnered with Jesse Leary for an art project. After spending time with him, Beck realises it’s more than a study date… and Christian’s not happy about it. Then again, Beck’s not sure she’s happy with him, either.

But only after plowing through a bottle of wine, a wild fight, and one guardrail that becomes Christian’s last call, does Beck admit to her problem and ask for help from the one whose life secretly parallels her own.

This isn't something I would usually pick up but the blurb intrigued me! The book surprised me with it's depth and I really enjoyed it!

What I loved:

• Jenna- I loved Jenna, She was loyal, honest and forgiving, a true friend to Beck. I found her to be an alternate to how Beck would have been if she hadn't been tempted, she showed a mirror image of who Beck was initially and who she could be. I think her reaction to alcohol emphasised how out of control Beck and the 'popular' group were. I liked reading a down to earth girl in a book full of out of control people!
• Jesse- I am in love with Jesse! He was so supportive and genuine. I loved how he came out of nowhere and gradually grew closer to Beck. I think he was the perfect guy for her to meet when she did. He intrigued me with all his knowledge on Alcoholic Anonymous and his secretive life but he was up front and honest to Beck and respected her. All in all I think he saved my opinion of Beck I found myself warming to her more the closer she got to Jesse.
• Subject Matter- I loved how the author approached the topics of alcoholism, peer pressure, unhealthy relationships and sexual assault from such a believable angle. Beck started out as an ordinary girl so her spiralling journey into alcoholism and unhealthy relationships was much more authentic and relatable. She really highlighted how easy it was to slip down the path alcoholism without meaning to and what kind of horrible and dangerous situations it can led to. I liked how she juxtaposed Beck and Christian's unhealthy relationship with alcohol with people like Jenna and Allison who didn't downward spiral as badly. I also liked that Beck didn't make a miraculous recovery but struggled with her addictions. It made for a gritty, realistic read.
• Flashforwards- The little snippets hinting at what would happen to Beck at the start of the first chapters were so intriguing! They warned of the bad path Beck was heading down and kept you guessing exactly what would happen. They were such a clever plot device!

What I didn't love as much:

• Christian and Hillman- I'm grouping these two together as I disliked both initially and that just deepen as the book went on! I found Christian to be insensitive and self absorbed, the fact he allowed the Hillman issue to exist and escalate was inexcusable. I think I disliked him the most as he was disillusioned with how inappropriate his behaviour was towards everyone and focussed only on how it all affected his personal life plan. Hillman was a disgusting human being, an awful friend and an intimidating threatening guy. He had few redeeming qualities and was exactly the kind of guy no one should let their guard down around. I think these two characters were sadly realistic if slightly exaggerated. Christian was the rich guy who depends alcohol to cope and allows it to control him and Hillman, the guy who waited around to take advantage of drunk girls.
• Parents- I was disappointed with most of the parents in this book. The characters were all under 18, mostly drinking their parents' alcohol and out at all hours with no supervision. I have a hard time imagining my parents allowing me or not realising that I was out at all hours and completely wasted almost everyday.... I felt Beck's parents could have intervened earlier although her Dad redeemed himself later on. Christian's parents were so completely oblivious to their son's actions it was shocking! I just felt if the parents had been more observant they could of avoided half the major situations their children ended up in.

I really enjoyed how this book took me out of my usual reading zone! I loved how it explored such deep subject matter, the only negative was I couldn't connect with Beck!

Have you read
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Tour organised by