Review- The Line Between Here and Gone by Andrea Kane.

The Line Between Here and Gone by Andrea Kane.

• Hardcover: 400 pages
• Publisher: Harlequin Mira (26 Jun 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0778313379
• ISBN-13: 978-0778313373

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, for granting me the permission to review this book via Netgalley, for no charge, for an honest review.  This book was read on my kindle.

Book Description.

"The man she loved is gone forever. The child she lives for could be next."Each day is a struggle for Amanda Gleason's newborn son as he battles a rare immune deficiency. Justin's best chance for a cure lies with his father, who was brutally murdered before Amanda even realized she carried his child.

Or was he?

One emailed photo changes everything, planting a seed of doubt that Amanda latches on to for dear life: a recent photo of a man who looks exactly like Paul. Could Justin's father be alive? The mother in her is desperate to find out. But tracking down a ghost when every second counts is not for amateurs.

"Forensic Instincts is the one team up for the challenge."

A behaviorist. A former navy SEAL. A techno-wizard. An intuitive. A retired FBI agent. A human-scent-evidence dog. Together they achieve the impossible, pushing ethical and legal boundaries whenever the ends justify the means.

The manhunt is on for the elusive father. Yet the further FI digs into his past, the more questions are raised about whether the man Amanda fell in love with ever really existed at all.

Dark secrets. Carefully crafted lies. From the congressional halls of Washington, D.C., to exclusive Hamptons manors, there are ruthless people who would stop at nothing to make Forensic Instincts forget about the man Amanda desperately needs to find.

Little do "they" realize that once Forensic Instincts takes the case, nothing will stop them from uncovering the shocking truth that transcends "The Line Between Here and Gone."

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My Review

Firstly, many thanks to the publishers for granting me access to review this book, for which it was kindly received via Netgalley. This was read on my Kindle.  When i saw the book cover and title i was really intrigued and interested.  The blurb had me hooked even more, it is a very long book description!! I do not believe it needs to be like that- less is more remember lol.  The cover is interesting as it is mysterious and a little odd, are they running? running away or to something? are they trying to survive? From reading the book, but you realise this from the blurb; the baby 'Justin' is in hospital, and his life is literally on the line, on the line of finding a match but the best hope being to find his dad.

I enjoyed this book, i really did, in a lot of ways and the ending is just so heart-warming.  Obviously with a crime/detective thriller like this, the ending is obvious in my opinion BUT it is more about the journey and how the jigsaw comes together.  The book did take me a while to read because i found i had to concentrate extra hard to take in all the little details and conversations, i suppose it is because you want to put the pieces of the jigsaw together yourself because the book reveals them.  It didn't help when they introduce so many characters with their career role stated, too much to take in.  This got even worse towards the end and it was just too much with all the new introduction of people's names and roles whilst remembering all details and conversation.  These didn't really add that much, they were just there and i scan read over their role because it drove me mad.  The dialogue is something else that needs taking into consideration because i found it quite stiff and disjointed, it didn't flow well, again making it slightly difficult to get into the book.   I wasn't sure whether it was just me who thought this, but since completing the book i have read a couple of reviews which have said similar so i know i'm on the right lines.  

It is a great storyline, interesting and important reason to find this 'Paul', making you keep turning the pages to find out more.  It is difficult to put down because you just want to know.  What keeps the storyline alive is all the twists in there, things you think you know but really you are wrong.  All the ways the information comes together is great, but is it actually believable as a story? and the team do seem a little far fetched in their characters and also their work within the team.  You have to accept it at face value and not question everything, because all your questions will not be answered.  Some areas where quite repetitive but i suppose this is needed in a novel such as these.  The character development was minimal in my opinion and i didn't really take to anyone, Amanda in some ways due to baby Justin but i believe in a story such as these you don't/aren't meant too other than the 'victims'.

What i didn't realise is that this book is not a stand alone book, it is actually book #2, it works find as a stand alone in my opinion.  Within the story they discuss a previous case, a kidnap case, but i didn't realise this 'case' was within a previous book.  It may have been useful to read the first book as it would have meant i was familiar with the characters and learnt more about them.  Maybe there was more character development within the first book and that is why there is minimal here.  Despite enjoying this book, i will not be reading the first book.

This isn't my normal kind of read and therefore it wasn't the kind of book that you can review easily.  It does has it's faults but because i did enjoy it and because it was a page turner, full of twists and unexpected turns, brought together well and a good ending but not what expected. I have given it 3 out of 5 stars- it was more like 3.5 but 4 seems too much in my opinion.

Review- Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins.

Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins

• Paperback: 380 pages
• Publisher: Harlequin Teen; Original edition (26 Jun 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 037321054X
• ISBN-13: 978-0373210541

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, for granting me the permission to review this book via Netgalley, for no charge, for an honest review.  This book was read on my kindle.

Book Description
Your heart misleads you.  That's what my friends and family say.  But I love Noah. And he loves me.  We met and fell in love in the sleepy farming community of Meadowview, while we rode our horses together through the grassy fields and in those moments in each other's arms. It should be  ROSE & NOAH forever, easy. But it won't be. Because he's Amish. And I'm not.
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My Review.

Firstly, many thanks to the publishers for granting me access to review this book, for which it was kindly received via Netgalley. This was read on my Kindle.  When i saw the cover i was instantly drawn in because i thought it looked quite 'dreamy' and i loved how the sun shone onto the couple who were in a close embrace.  Obviously i knew it was a love story from that and I'm a sucker for a bit of romance.  Then with the title and the brief sentence on the front i realised it was about forbidden love- which i love even more than just 'love stories' and romance.  I knew i wanted to read it before i had even had read the 'blurb', after reading that it just cemented that i had to read it.  There is so many forbidden love stories out there but this was different, i have never read a love story where there was an Amish and Non-Amish couple, and actually i have never read a book which has featured the Amish community.  This made it more interesting for me because i know about the community (this community is also referred too as a culture, religious group, cult and even an anti-feminist group) and have watched documentaries, but to feature in a novel was different for me. 

Now i had no expectations for this book at all, i did think i would like it and enjoy it. However, this book was one that threw me a little and i have waited 2 weeks post-reading to write this review because i couldn't articulate my feelings or what i wanted to say here. I didn't know how i would even rate it or if i would write a review without a rating.  This book is the first book which i have loved but hated at the same time, and i don't think i can even explain my reasoning completely without giving spoilers!  It is one of those books whereby you need to read it yourself and i do recommend that people read this BUT stick with it. I did almost give up with the first third of the book but i just had to keep reading. and i did get used to what was irritating me.

The basis of the plot is that Rose and her family move into the house next door to Noah's family following the death of her mother and her dad (a doctor) getting a new job in the area.  Rose (Non-Amish) and Noah (Amish) meet quickly and the focus is on them and their 'relationship'. To be honest, I am not too sure there is anymore plot than just the desire they have to be together.  It has romance at the heart of book and does have other aspects such as the relationships they each have with their family and the dynamics of each family-the Amish one was of interest for me  and i found it fascinating to read about! But in regard to plot, there was little of one as i said just before.  It didn't taken the shine off the book for me though because watching the relationship develop was a compelling journey to be taken on full of raw emotion.  It doesn't seem like the couple will ever be able to be together given the difference in their cultures and the aversion of the Non-Amish from the Amish.  The ending is interesting and yet some what annoying.  This book works well as a stand-alone book, which I thought it was, but it will actually be a series.  I cannot wait to see what happens next and I am excited for the next book! This says a lot about my feelings for this book really.

This book is well-written by Hopkins, beautifully descriptive and i loved her writing style.  She is able to evoke feelings in the reader, which isn't an easy thing to do.  For me I found it slow paced for the first three quarters of the book, but after a very significant event it vastly improved.  This significant event was quite shocking really and  featured 'something' that brought tears to my eyes.  The story is written in first person perspective but a dual one, as it is told by both Noah and Rose.  This is my favourite kind of style for a novel because you find out different viewpoints of a situation and there is some overlapping of time between the 2 perspectives.  In this book, this works perfectly because we get to know what both of them are thinking, their feelings towards the other and their understanding of each others culture.  Not only that but you get an inside view of what they expect from the other and from the relationship, some of it is quite hard hitting and shocking in my view, but then you have to remember they are only teenagers.

So, onto the main characters, Noah and Rose, who are both well written to reflect their community.  Rose is only 16, living with her dad and brothers following the death of her mother.  I liked her, she is sweet, caring, strong willed, thinks for herself, pretty, as well as quite naive and innocent when it comes to love.  Noah is 18, and being Amish this means that he is at an age to take responsibility for a wife and family.  He is a caring and kind towards Rose, family orientated but at the same time, he seems controlling, selfish and does have anti-feminist views.  I know it isn't his fault and these traits are probably due to his upbringing in this community, but still, it frustrated me.  What he said made me really angry and I have to say that I didn't actually like him for most of the book if at all.  These next quotes from his dad show the influence Noah is under being Amish;

"We have become used to not having outsiders living so close by. I am sure it will take some adjusting to."

"English children will want to make friends- which creates a very difficult situation for us." "The father important -don't want to offend him." "But neither will I have my   children spending much time with the English, being influenced and corrupted by  them"  

The words used by Noah and his family to describe Non-Amish and even Rose's family drove me crazy, especially in the beginning, I did get used to them, but wow did they grate on me, it felt like it was racist almost.  The terms used were 'the English' and 'outsiders'.

To demonstrate Noah's controlling ways I have provided such quotes which made me so uncomfortable.  Also on the 'first date' he showed his controlling and argumentative ways, this was towards Rose dancing! Rose actually picked up on the edge to his voice when he used the term "the English". I'm sorry but first date and now matter how much you fancy someone, that sort of behaviour would send you running!  

"I didn't think she'd be receptive to being told what to do directly. I'd have to be subtle about it and make her think she was doing what she wanted" Wow that is scary! How devious is he, that is just mind games!

"I didn't have authority over her.  That really troubled me more than I cared to admit" "take charge of her" 

Aside from that, another aspect that I didn't enjoy, which I know a lot of readers also do not like, is this 'insta-love' as the love story.  Straight away there were comments and references from both of them as being lovestruck, experiencing electric from touching and thoughts of when they are living together.  Even thoughts of having a baby! The wanting, needing, pining that went on, urgh, it got sooooo repetitive and as I said their desire to be together was the plot really.  I have to say that I believe Noah's feelings and thoughts to be more reliable and true due to his age and responsibility, whereas I feel Rose is swept along with the lust and excitement, she seems so young to be on the same wavelength as Noah in regards to a relationship. I had to laugh prior to one of their meet-ups and Rose is getting ready and looking in the mirror, it was such an argh!! moment but so typical of a teenager really

"Turning sideways I was surprised to see how I was filling the shirt out this year.  I certainly didn't remember looking so.......developed in it last year"

 Overall, this book is a lovely read, an emotional exploration of love that is forbidden.  It is sweet and full of want and desire.  There is obstacles and problems throughout it, there are moments when you want to scream and times when you laugh and go awww.  I found this book difficult to review as i said but then I've written an essay so obviously i had lots to say and i enjoyed it more than i originally thought.  I would recommend it to people but i would say that this will be a book you may love and hate at the same time but give it chance.  I will definitely be reading the sequel.  I have to give a rating of 3 out of 5 :)

Thanks for reading.

Review-One Breath Away by Heather Gudenkauf.

One Breath Away by Heather Gudenkauf.

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Mira (6 July 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1848451326
• ISBN-13: 978-1848451322

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, for granting me the permission to review this book via Netgalley, for no charge, for an honest review.  This book was read on my kindle.

Book Description.

In her most emotionally charged novel to date, "New York Times" bestselling author Heather Gudenkauf explores the unspoken events that shape a community, the ties between parents and their children and how the fragile normalcy of our everyday life is so easily shattered. In the midst of a sudden spring snowstorm, an unknown man armed with a gun walks into an elementary school classroom. Outside the school, the town of Broken Branch watches and waits.

Officer Meg Barrett holds the responsibility for the town's children in her hands. Will Thwaite, reluctantly entrusted with the care of his two grandchildren by the daughter who left home years earlier, stands by helplessly and wonders if he has failed his child again. Trapped in her classroom, Evelyn Oliver watches for an opportunity to rescue the children in her care. And thirteen-year-old Augie Baker, already struggling with the aftermath of a terrible accident that has has brought her to Broken Branch, will risk her own safety to protect her little brother.

As tension mounts with each passing minute, the hidden fears and grudges of the small town are revealed as the people of Broken Branch race to uncover the identity of the stranger who holds their children hostage.

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My Review.

Firstly, many thanks to the publishers for granting me access to review this book, for which it was kindly received via Netgalley. This was read on my Kindle.  I have to say that i was really interested by this book when i saw the cover and read the 'blurb', however, at the same time i was hesitant to read it as i didn't know if i could 'deal' with this content in a harrowing story.  I didn't know what was going to happen and as a parent, this is every parents' worst nightmare and for that i was debating whether to go ahead and read it.  I did read it and i am SO glad i did because i LOVED this story.  It was ABSOLUTELY UTTERLY THRILLING AND FANTASTIC.  I could not put it down, i was hooked and i would even re-read it now that i know the 'outcome'. One word=WOW!

Okay so enough of that!  The cover is quite striking in a subtle way that grabs your attention because it is cold, chilling and looks like a winter setting.  It does give you a chill and the child looks clearly unhappy.  It definitely relates to the story given the situation and the title- doesn't directly relate to the story, however, when you have read the story you realise it is giving you something to contemplate, a message.

I will not go into the plot too much as i don't want to risk any spoilers and i have included a book description.  For me, i hate reading a review that says no spoilers but actually tells you a lot about the plot and what happens with more detail than what is expected.  Everyone knows the basis of the storyline, about a gunman coming into a school in Broken Branch.  This place is actually a small town, which is a perfect setting for this story- in a way it makes it more of a catastrophic event as 'who would do this here?' the community are usually together, knitted with solidarity and thinking they know everything about everyone including their secrets,but this novel portrays that this is far from the truth.  Setting it in spring but with an unusual snowstorm for the time of year makes it unbelievably unfortunate as this messes with communication, this would have aided with the rescue of the hostage situation.

It is well written, has quick pacing, full of suspense, keeps you questioning about who the gunman is and hence has you struggling to put it down.  Gudenkauf's writing and how the story unfolded but then was brought together, reminded me of another author-Jodi Picoult, her fans are sure to adore this book just as much as they do hers.  Another aspect of Gudenkauf's writing that i really liked was the thorough character development and i enjoyed how the story was delivered.  It is told by 5 of the characters and is over an eight hour span, these characters are; a teacher in the room, a teenager, a mum who is miles away in hospital, a grandad from the town and a member of law enforcement.  Each person has they own section-there isn't overlapping bwteen these sections, some are as long as a chapter and as some are very short.  It keeps the story moving quickly, it also includes overlapping of time from different people, however this works perfectly for getting the different insights.  Even though there are 5 characters 'telling the story', it never becomes confusing-each section is clearly headed and none of the characters are similar. From these only one is told in the author's 'voice' and the others are in third person.  This is one of my favourite narrations as it tells the tale from each person's perspective which adds more depth and heart to the story.

This narration was perfect for this as you are given an insight into all aspects of the situation, including inside the school.  Through their thoughts, words and actions it gives their account of this harrowing day and shows how they all react during this terrible incident.  Every individual is different as their perspective is uniquely framed by their life-memories and experiences.  We learn about these throughout from their stories, it also gives us more information to think 'who is the gunmen?'.  It provides hints to several possibilities but in my opinion it is not obvious who the actual gunman is or his reasons for his actions. 

These life experiences/stories definitely gives heart to the story and emotions are evoked in the reader which means that connections start to form with the characters, they become human as such.  These stories deal with so many issues that it is unbelievable but it is handled so well and told so well that it isn't too much, There are issues exploring father-daughter relationships,mother-daughter relationships, siblings relationships, divorce, abandonment, affairs, life or death situations, bravery, sympathy, empathy, sacrifice, love and self-discovery.  It evoked so many emotions in me, i just could not believe how i felt towards the characters and how i put myself in that situation as a parent/grand parent and even as an individual with a loved one trapped inside.  

I am going to sum up here because i feel that this review is very long.  I cannot express anymore why i love this book, and why everyone should read it! I would re-read it as i said.  It lived with me for a long time after i put the book down, i couldn't stop thinking about it and trying to analyse it.  The title is so true in respect that, 'One Breath Away'  is all it takes to change your life forever.

Please Read it :) Without a doubt 5 out of 5!

Review- One Moment by Kristina McBride.

One Moment by Kristina McBride.

• Hardcover: 272 pages
• Publisher: Egmontusa (26 Jun 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 160684086X
• ISBN-13: 978-1606840863

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, for granting me the permission to review this book via Netgalley, for no charge, for an honest review.  This book was read on my kindle.

Book Description.

This was supposed to be the best summer of Maggie's life. Now it's the one she'd do anything to forget.

Maggie remembers hanging out at the gorge with her closest friends after a blowout party. She remembers climbing the trail with her perfect boyfriend, Joey. She remembers that last kiss, soft, lingering, and meant to reassure her. So why can't she remember what happened in the moment before they were supposed to dive? Why was she left cowering at the top of the cliff, while Joey floated in the water below-dead? 
As Maggie's memories return in snatches, nothing seems to make sense. Why was Joey acting so strangely at the party? Where did he go after taking her home? And if Joey was keeping these secrets, what else was he hiding? 
The latest novel from the author of "The Tension of Opposites," "One Moment" is a mysterious, searing look at how an instant can change everything you believe about the world around you.

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My Review.

Firstly, many thanks to the publishers for granting me access to review this book for which it was kindly received via Netgalley. This was read on my Kindle. I was so happy to get this for review and wanted to read it for ages.  I was drawn in by the cover and the 'blurb' had me hooked!  Then after hearing great things about the book, i was just sooo excited and thought this is going to be one amazing read.  Sadly, for me, this was not the case.  I did not rate it as highly as a lot of people did, i liked it yes, and i enjoyed it even, but i didn't love it.  I will try and explain as i go through the review.  I am really worried that i have missed something here.

The cover drew me in because even something so simple can be immense.  The colours, the brightness on the foot as a focus with the reflection, the tipping the toe with the reflection ripple it makes, and as though they are unsure, testing the water, nervous about the water.  This is just some examples it brings to mind.  After reading the book you realise this is a perfect cover and it has got an eerie feel about it.

So, yes, i enjoyed the book, i am not going into the book description as it is mentioned above and i don't want to risk plot spoilers.  If i do, i apologise in advance but there shouldn't be any.  Throughout the book i was hooked, completey engrossed in the story and it was full of suspense (which went on for a long time!); i wanted to know what had happened at the gorge at the top of the rock, what was all the little whispers going on and what exactly had occured previously.  The book is done so that the 2 characters;Joey and Maggie (an item) go to the top of the gorge and are just about to jump.  From then it skips to after when something has happened, an accident.  It comes together with what had happened bit by bit BUT there is a big part missing which is in Maggie's memory, she cannot recall this.  Whilst having this suspense and bits of information added and then more 'whispers/secrets' becoming revealled, it is intense!  

It is also really sad and emotive, you really feel for Maggie and it feels so real, probably because it is narratored by her, therefore it is seen through her eyes as such and told with her words  The author has written this beautifully to evoke these feelings in a reader.  This has being done through having such descriptive writing, so that instead of telling the reader what to see, hear, feel and smell; she does it with descriptions so that your senses put the imagery together.  Through this, it enables human nature to be explored, to demonstrate how a friendship can be effected by a death.  In fact, the emotions and expressions portray this perfectly in my opinion. Very clever! and what really adds something too the book is how the information is revealed bit by bit and not just given all at once it keeps the reader guessing, yet, a lot of it is quite predictable to be fair. 

It all sounds great, however, the story didn't start coming together until around 60%, and that 1st part could have being condensed into much much less.  It honestly felt like the last part of the book was written as the book was meant to be and the 1st part had words added to them to make up a word count or something.  This was done in the descriptive parts because i honestly felt like it had been 'padded out', it was VERY descriptive in parts, as in over the top (OTT)- all fluffiness and colours.  An example is when they are at a party, and all the colours she mentiones in the sky and them mixing etc.  Just too much and not needed really.  Descriptive wrting, as i said in the above paragraph is fantastic, but there is a fine line between this and OTT and in parts, this book definitely was OTT .  It felt quite slow-paced and i just wanted to get on with it, once we got to that point then it was quite good paced.  Due to the slow pace, it gave the reader more time to put things together and ultimately it becomes quite predictable.  Another little issue i had was how it was told, each chapter was a jump between timeframes, some where before the jump,some the day of the jump and some after the jump and present day, it doesn't give any dates or say on the chapter which it was going to be.  I found it really confusing sometimes and it took me a bit to work it out.  That bit of guidance would have made a difference, because this way of 'telling a story' is actually much better as a novel as it gives a deeper understanding into issue and how the past can effect the present.  Shame really or maybe i am the only one who got confused.

There are several characters but the main ones in my opinions are Maggie (story narratored by) Joey, Adam and Shannon.  I didn't take to Maggie at all, i don't know why, i just didn't, i thought she was quite naive (you will understand when the book is read) and even though she was 'heartbroken' she quickly moved on with life!  I didn't take to Joey either, he made me angry!, i felt he loved himself and was big headed!  For some reason i didn't trust him from the beginning, however, i did mellow towards has the story unfolded and you get the truth of his life, i felt sorry for him in ways. Maggie forgave him and what she did near the end was quite sweet and i think this ending was to make the reader like him and forgive him too.  Shannon is another character i didn't trust, i felt she was the show off in the group. This is demonstrated when they are on the beach at the gorge, she is a big mouth! She is just a b!tch really, however, we are told that she is within the text, in the exact phase of calling her that name.  Therefore, as a reader, even though we are judging her character, this also leads us to not like her.  She is not a loyal friend, but she does have a heart, she just keeps it well hidden.  Adam is Joey's best friend, he struggles immensely after Joey's death and because he has so much information in his hands, he is in a real dilemma whereby he pushes his friends away.  Readers could dislike him because of this and all the unnecessary drama around him, however, i didn't, i felt sorry for him because he needed help, he was hurting, he didn't know what to do with all the secrets and information he has.  Thankfully, he deals with the situations and the end is quite fitting and sweet with him.  It feels like it was a quick move after Joey's death, but given what had occurred, it felt right.  

Finally, the story had a proper ending, it was closed and all the bits of the story where brought together with nothing left outstanding or any questions needing answers.  Like i said previously, i liked the story and enjoyed it.  However, i didn't love it and the issues i had with it is why i gave it a rating of 3 out of 5.  I feel like i am being stringent but it feels right.

Review- Timepiece.....

 Timepiece: An Hourglass Novel by Myra McEntire.

Hardcover:336 pages
Publisher: Egmontusa (12 Jun 2012)

• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1606841459
• ISBN-13: 978-1606841457

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, for granting me the permission to review this book via Netgalley, for no charge, for an honest review.  This book was read on my kindle.  When i read this synopsis, i went and bought the 1st book; Hourglass.

Book Description.

A threat from the past could destroy the future. And the clock is ticking...

Kaleb Ballard's relentless flirting is interrupted when Jack Landers, the man who tried to murder his father, timeslips in and attacks before disappearing just as quickly. But Kaleb has never before been able to see time travelers, unlike many of his friends associated with the mysterious Hourglass organization. Are Kaleb's powers expanding, or is something very wrong?

Then the Hourglass is issued an ultimatum. Either they find Jack and the research he's stolen on the time gene, or time will be altered with devastating results. 

Now Kaleb, Emerson, Michael, and the other Hourglass recruits have no choice but to use their unusual powers to find Jack. But where do they even start? And when? And even if they succeed, it may not be enough...

The follow-up to Hourglass, Timepiece blends the paranormal, science fiction, mystery, and suspense genres into a nonstop thrill ride where every second counts.

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My Review.

Firstly, many thanks to the publishers for granting me access to review this book for which it was kindly received via Netgalley. This was read on my Kindle.  Has i said above, once i read the synopsis i knew i had to read this and therefore i had to go buy the 1st book to read prior to this.  The cover was the first thing that hooked me.  I am a person who is attracted to a book by it's cover, i know it's wrong but i do.  This cover is just intense, it is eerie, is she flying? Is she holding on and being pulled away? is she trying to get through the door?  I just love it!  I will be buying it in paperback to match my 'Hourglass' book as i'm hoping it is the same texture cover.  It is obviously of Em, but i wonder why it didn't have any of the other characters on, especially the one who is telling the story from their point of view.

To start off i have to say that i absolutely LOVED this book, i really did and i think that i actually preferred it slightly more than 'Hourglass', well up to the end anyways, but i will discuss that shortly.  It is difficult to discuss this book in too much detail without giving spoilers or mentioning what happened in the first book.  I apologise if i do but the 'blurb' of the book is above so i won't repeat all that.  This book continues on from 'Hourglass' it relates to what happened in the first book so you really do need to read it.  However, it is told from Kaleb's point of view (POV) this time rather than Emerson's (Em), at first i was a bit disgruntled that it wasn't from Em's but actually, it had to be this way to fit the story and it worked perfectly.  This way you get a different view of the characters and a thorough insight into Kaleb- who i have to add i feel in love with during this book!!!!

 Has stated in the blurb, they are looking for Jack and have a deadline in place.  The reasons are all explained and why it is so important.  It really built up the suspense and intrigue and in some places a thriller aspect where i genuinely felt scared for the charcters and i was like "oh quick quick" and got sense of relief when it was ok.  I got way too involved with this book.  The pacing throughtout most of the book was perfect, the way the story played out, the elements that were involved and little sideline stories all came into one.  However, and this is a big however, the ending and the last part was over in the blink of an eye!  I got to the last page and didn't believe it because it was over so quickly with all that led up to it.  It got to a point in the story where they arrive somewhere and literally less than 10 pages later, it was over and in such a simple way!  I will say that near the end, 2 characters are in the time travel 'situation' and people are slightly worried but then at the end, it's 'blink' oh we are back all is okay.  Yes all the ends were tied up BUT too quickly!! In a way that didn't fit the book and this upset me a bit as i felt cheated.  The situation of the end was great just not how it was delivered.

So,as said, Kaleb narrators the story and this fits perfectly for the storyline and you realise what a fantastically awesome guy he really is!  First line of the book cracked me up 

'Maybe getting drunk and dressing like a pirate for the masquerade was a bad idea'

 I mean what an opening line!  In the 1st book i was really unsure about him but now a total change of view.  You find out his inner thoughts, how honest, loyal and sincere he is.  He is caring, a risk-taker, strong, emotional, HOT! funny and intelligent.  His funny little comments in the narratoring made me smile but the constant reference to someone's body and butt and how curvy they are, argh!!! it drove me CRAZY! I know this is what a lot of males probably do but honestly it did grind on me a little.  There is romance in this book too, and it is awww, intense, and nothing like that of Em's and Michael's either! Through Kaleb you still find information out about the other characters and Em is still there so you get to know what is happening with her and they are all working together as a team.

The characters are pretty much the same but with less of Thomas and Dru (Em's brother and his wife),and Cat.  You get more of Lily (Em's best friend) in this book, she was only really touched upon in the 1st book but in this, she is more of a main character.  Her role is vital, her abilities are vital and she really adds to the story.  She is a great little character, similar to Kaleb really- honest,loyal, funny but she is a massive risk taker!  I really liked her character.  Em and Michael are still mentioned quite a bit but more about their exploding relationship really, you see that Em doesn't change and still does really stupid things! but that is how her character is.

There is going to be a 3rd book called, 'Infinityglass', this 'thing' is mentioned within this book and once read you know what it is and you need to know more, hence why we need the 3rd book!!  I hope the 3rd book does relate back to the 1st two books but i hope it is in a way that re-explains things slightly because luckily i read the books close together.  If not when reading this book i would have being like "umm what is this i can't remember" "umm what happened there i can't remember" and i would have had to re-read parts of the first book.

Overall, i truly loved this book, i would receommend these to everyone and i already have!  It is fantastic and they just hook you instantly.  I would have given this book a 5 out of 5 but because of the 500mph ending i had to lower it to a 4 ladybirds/ladybugs out of 5.  Roll on 2013 for the next book!!

Review; Putting Alice Back Together.

Putting Alice Back Together by Carol Marinelli.

• Paperback: 392 pages
• Publisher: Mira Books (2 Mar 2012)
• ISBN-10: 1848450591
• ISBN-13: 978-1848450592

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, for granting me the permission to review this book via Netgalley, for no charge, for an honest review.  This book was read on my computer as it had to be downloaded onto adobe and this doesn't support the kindle.

Book description.

There's only so much sex, Valium and red wine you can take to paper over the cracks... 
Alice Lydia Jameson is the friend you wish you had. The girl who makes a party more fun, pulls a funny face to make you feel better, drinks wine out of a mug and makes you laugh while you're crying over an ex. Alice is totally happy, everything is amazing, and there is nothing at all to worry about... except, well: Her job was really great 10 years ago; The sexiest guy alive doesn't want her...because he's gay; Her credit card bills are mounting up... But maybe the biggest problem for Alice is that she has a secret. A secret so big she can't tell anyone...but how do you keep a secret like that when everything is starting to fall apart? And once it's out there, how do you ever begin to put yourself back together again?

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My Review.

Firstly, many thanks to the publishers for granting me access to review this book for which it was kindly received via Netgalley.  The book was sent as a download version onto my laptop to read via Adobe.  This title is basically what the book is about, no title that brings wonder or thoughts of what this book is about. I do like that with a book but it can be seen as a little boring.  The cover isn't amazing but it is meant to be Alice (hair colour) and the zip.....zipping up? meant to be fabric being brought back together, putting back together as in putting Alice together.  This is what i thought when i analysed the cover.  It isn't the best title or cover in the world BUT it does the job fine in my opinion and i actually like the title! Has soon as i read the description of the book i wanted to read it, i was hoping for a book that was about self-discovery and intrigue.  I wasn't expecting to like this book as much as i did and in fact i LOVED it!  I really did.  I couldn't put it down and i read it in a day!

I loved this book so much that i don't know where to start with what i want to say.  This book is no 'chick lit' and is a woman's fiction full of emotional turmoil and drama.  It wasn't just about putting Alice back together, it was mainly about her falling apart, her self-destruction, and spiralling out of control to whereby her life at that present time was an absolute wreck.  Living with depression & anxiety, alcohol and drug abuse, debt, problems with relationships, family and work etc (the blurb states what i have just said).  The book does focus more on this falling apart than the recovery in my opinion and i did think, well if this book is about putting back together, then why is the recovery not the main part of the book rather than more about the self-destruct.  But then when i reflected upon it, i realised that the whole point of someone getting together and getting back to themselves, is to 1st self-destruct completely.  You have to hit rock bottom before you go up!!!!  This is what happens.  Has a person who suffers with depression and anxiety, the book did hit hard and i wept a few tears, i felt a bond with Alice and I'm not sure if it is due to this but i sympathised with her.  I believe that all readers would sympathise with Alice once they understand why she is the way she is.

The secret mentioned on the 'blurb' to get the readers attention to read the book is mentioned within the first page/chapter. However, this isn't just it and as a reader you know there is more to it and you are intrigued by it, you need details, and you need to know why.  There is a shock factor to it, there is upset and the vulnerability behind Alice is clearly evident.  How the author gets out this story is the narrative is in 1st person, that being Alice, but the chapters alternate between the younger Alice and the present one and even though this can be confusing at times, this is my favourite kind of book.  I love ones that alternate because it helps to give a full all round enhancement to the story.  It is written really well, you aren't told but are rather shown, so as a reader you can digest it yourself and use your own mind.  The internal dialogue used balanced with the interactions Alice has with other characters really help to add the emotion, you feel like you are going through this with her, you know her inner thoughts.  The secret adds suspense as i said and the details are slowly revealed and within this 'big' secret are other secrets due to the details, this adds to the shock factor of the secret.  When you know the full story, you completely understand Alice, you wonder how she is still living each day given how she has self destructed so far.  Even with flaws that Alice has you love her, you can't not, i wanted to hug her so many times.

This story is enriched by the other characters; Dan, Ros, Hugh (her friends) and family members.  She has problems with friends & family initially and for quite a way into the book, until she is crumbling and then her true friends are there, hugging her, looking after her. A friend who she honestly believes is her best friend is Nicole, who leaves to go to the UK, leaving Alice behind, making out it is just a holiday and Alice knows she has no intention of coming back.  That is no friend and is really sad.  Once the secret is out and her friendships with those others improves and family connections improves, Alice becomes a happier, more balanced person.  There is romance in this book, but just enough for it to warm your heart, make you smile and swoon, but not enough to change the whole feel of this book.  With all these elements of this story and all the different depths to it, it's just an amazing read.  It's so engrossing, i was so sad when it ended, i didn't want it to finish, i wanted to see more of Alice's recovery.

This book made me sad, cry, sob, smile, laugh and feel so many emotions.  I loved it and would recommend it to people who like these sort of women fiction.  It gets a 4 out of 5!

MY REVIEW- The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight.
by Jennifer E. Smith.

Hardcover: 240 pages
Publisher: Headline (5 Jan 2012)
Language English
ISBN-10: 0755392175
ISBN-13: 978-0755392179

I purchased this book myself and it is a hardback book.

Book Description.

"Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything?"

Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan’s life. She’s stuck at JFK, late to her father’s second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon to be step-mother that Hadley’s never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport’s cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he’s British, and he’s in seat 18C. Hadley’s in 18A.

Twists of fate and quirks of timing play out in this thoughtful novel about family connections, second chances and first loves. Set over a 24-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver’s story will make you believe that true love finds you when you’re least expecting it.
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My Review.

I purchased this book in hardback version and i have decided to do a review on it even though there are so many reviews out there and mine will more than likely add nothing to what has already been covered.  However, my review is for me and I'm not doing reviews to change anything or to really add anything, it is for my record.  First of all I LOVE THIS COVER!!  It pulls you in for a romance story without all the normal 'fluffiness' and 'girliness' that a lot of romantic novels use.  You know the type with hearts, swirls, pinks/purples, swirly writing, happy pictures etc.  This could be even a crime cover if it wasn't for the heart, and the title. Just like an airport CCTV, of the two characters 'Hadley and Oliver' kissing. Just love it. The title, when you realise why it is used later in the book, i melted! I smiled and i swooned.  We all somewhere wonder if love at first sight happens, this is another pull of this book, i think we like to think it does happen.

I have to say i had high expectations for this book because i had read so many incredible things about it.  First off i have to say that i was not disappointed at all!! I enjoyed every minute of this book and i wanted more and more, it wasn't long enough for me.  It was the right pacing too, not too slow or fast and covers so much in a 24 hour period.  That is what the book was in time, 24 hours.  I loved this book because i'm a secret hopeless romantic and i do believe in love at first sight, i do believe in fate and that everything happens for a reason.  However, in books i'm not for the whole instant love in one page and marriage,babies,house etc etc on the next if you know what i mean. I like things to linger a little, the suspense of the romance that is so clearly there.  This book in terms of romance is obviously about Hadley and Oliver, but it is more than that, it is about other relationships. The main other being Hadley and her relationship with her dad, which is none existent before she flies to England- the progression of that is another heart-warmer.  She is flying to England to attend his wedding to 'the other woman'.  Hadley is a teenager who has gone through the divorce from her parents and is obviously bitter and full of anger, so the thought that Oliver is able to thaw her heart is so sweet.  Oliver is travelling to England for reasons he doesn't explain.  Would you believe it that after meeting in the airport, they have plane tickets for the same row! and end up sitting together! I am not going to go into the full ins and outs of the plot, i don't think a review needs that.  I could not put this book down, it had everything i needed; suspense, excitement, hope, love, tears, sadness, happiness,smiles.  I knew what Hadley was feeling, not so much Oliver, i just wish that it would have being from Hadley's perspective so that you could feel it more, so it was more descriptive in feelings, and so you could get inside her head more.  I think it could have worked if the chapters alternated between Hadley and Oliver, to get a full enhanced romance book. This is just my opinion as these kind of books are my favourite at the moment if written correctly.

These characters are portrayed so beautifully i don't think you could say a bad word about them! I loved Hadley's character, she seemed to be going through so much, had gone through so much and needed some luck.  She must have really dreaded that flight but it turned out to be so different from what she thought.  She is a lovable teenager, just with understandable anger and hurt, you want to take her under your wing and look after her.  She is strong though and knows her own mind, has her own independence.  Oliver, the other main character, i think i fell in love with himself.  He is such a gentleman and romantic too, you can just tell how he likes Hadley, how cute he is.  When you realise things about him in the book, you just think wow, he hid all that to support Hadley.  Why can't more males be like that?  There is an air of mystery about him, but he made me smile and even laugh and cry.  All in those short pages.  I so wish the book wasn't in a third person perspective.

"People who meet at airports are seventy-two percent more likely to fall for each other than people who meet anywhere else"

I gave this book a 5 out of 5 stars!! wowzess!! It would have being a 4.5 because of the 3rd person perspective but i thought blah let's be generous, and go for 5 :)

***** 

Early Review-Saving June

UK cover.

Saving June
by Hannah Harrington

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher:Harlequin UK Mira Ink (1 Jun 2012)
Language English
ISBN-10: 1848450958
ISBN-13: 978-1848450950

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, for granting me the permission to review an early release of this book via Netgalley, for no charge, for an honest review.  This book was read on my computer as the arc was to be downloaded onto adobe
Book description.

‘If she’d waited less than two weeks, she’d be June who died in June. But I guess my sister didn’t consider that.’

Harper Scott’s older sister has always been the perfect one so when June takes her own life a week before her high school graduation, sixteen-year-old Harper is devastated. Everyone’s sorry, but no one can explain why.

When her divorcing parents decide to split her sister’s ashes into his-and-her urns, Harper takes matters into her own hands. She’ll steal the ashes and drive cross-country with her best friend, Laney, to the one place June always dreamed of going, California.

Enter Jake Tolan. He’s a boy with a bad attitude, a classic-rock obsession and nothing in common with Harper’s sister. But Jake had a connection with June, and when he insists on joining them, Harper’s just desperate enough to let him. With his alternately charming and infuriating demeanour and his belief that music can see you through anything, he might be exactly what she needs.

Except June wasn’t the only one hiding something. Jake’s keeping a secret that has the power to turn Harper’s life upside down again.

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My Review.
Firstly, many thanks to Harlequin UK for granting me the early review of this book for which it was kindly received via Netgalley.  The arc was sent as a download version onto my laptop to read via Adobe.  Has soon as i read this book description i had to read it, it sounded full of mystery and suspense with some possible romance there with a bad boy- always seems to be a winner.  This book didn't fail to impress, i thought it was most definitely impressive, it is mainly a road trip for a very important reason and the reader gets sucked into the story and it feels like they are there on the trip with them.  It is a book with some mystery and suspense surrounding certain characters but for me, this wasn't that strong a theme through the book, compared with other emotions; fun, laughter, love, passion, tragedy, upset, sadness and as well as a road trip, it was a roller coaster of emotions, it is also a journey for the reader, and for the characters.

The main characters are Harper, Jake and Laney. Harper is June's sister, with Jake being the boy with mystery/secrets and Laney is Harper's best friend.  These are the 3 who go on the road trip to California with June's urn.  Initially, Harper cannot really stand Jake, she is a girl who is also meant to be the 'bad' one in the family, being rude, poor grades and living in her sister's shadow to her parents who have divorced.  What we learn about Harper is how different she is from what she is 'meant' to be and how many questions and blame she puts on herself for June's death.  Her character does grow on you extremely easily and as well as being on this road trip, she is also on a journey of self-discovery and seems to grow up.  Jake in the description is made out to be this bad-ass rocker but i don't believe he was at all; he worked in a music shop, loved music and had a vast knowledge of songs, artists and albums that swan over the years.  He was previously meant to be a bad-ass but i don't believe he was in this book.  He is a completely compassionate guy, who is a good listener, good with advice and as a reader he kinda makes you swoon.  Yes if you could fall for a guy in a book, Jake would be one! Laney, not so much a strong main character but she is important during the story; she is the complete opposite of Harper but she is a fun-loving, sociable, addicted to guys and precarious.  She is another character on a journey in this book, she grows up, becomes sensible and responsible for her actions, as well as realises she can be like this but still have fun.

This is the first road trip book i have read, and i never thought i would enjoy it, but i loved it!  Has well as all the references that Jake made to songs and artists- you can hear the songs in your head as they are played in the van on the trip, there was also reference to places on the trip and events, they meet new people and stay in different places.  I loved the soundtrack list in the back of the too for each of the CD's, i thought this was funny and cute but quite important too.  So has i said, i LOVED this book, i really did, i was completely enthralled with this story. I couldn't get enough, i couldn't put it down and i was sad that it had finished.

I am not a big fan of quotes from books but there were two that just jumped out and almost bite me so i had to include them;
*"He took his pain and turned it into something beautiful. Into something that people connect to. And that's what good music does. It speaks to you. It changes you."
*"“If you really want things to change, you can make them change no matter where you are.”

Obviously, i gave this book 5 out of 5 stars.

*****

Early Review- The Good Father By Diane Chamberlain

UK book cover,better than US in my opinion.

The Good Father,
By Diane Chamberlain.

Publisher: Harlequin UK
Imprint: MIRA
Pub Date: June 01, 2012
ISBN: 9781408969793
Pages: 368

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, Harlequin UK, for granting me the permission to review an early release of this book via Netgalley, for no charge, for an honest review.  This book was read on my computer as the arc was to be downloaded onto abode

Book description.

A beloved daughter. A devastating choice. And now there's no going back.

Four years ago, nineteen-year-old Travis Brown made a choice: to raise his newborn daughter on his own. While most of his friends were out partying and meeting girls, Travis was at home, changing diapers and worrying about keeping food on the table. But he's never regretted his decision. Bella is the light of his life. The reason behind every move he makes. And so far, she is fed. Cared for. Safe.

But when Travis loses his construction job and his home, the security he's worked so hard to create for Bella begins to crumble...….

Then a miracle. A job in Raleigh has the power to turn their fortunes around. It has to. But when Travis arrives in Raleigh, there is no job, only an offer to participate in a onetime criminal act that promises quick money and no repercussions.

With nowhere else to turn, Travis must make another choice for his daughter's sake.Even if it means he might lose her.

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My Review.

Firstly, many thanks to Harlequin UK for granting me the early review of this book for which it was kindly received via Netgalley.  The arc was sent as a download version onto my laptop to read via Adobe.  When i was granted access to review this book, i was beyond excited and happy! Diane Chamberlain is one of my favourite authors and therefore i had high expectations for this book before i even read the book description.

Before i say anything, i have to say that OMG, I LOVED this book! I had every right to have high expectations of it and it definitely exceeded these.  I went through so many emotions with this book; hope, joy, sadness, happiness, relief, love, tragedy, warmth to name a few and i felt i went on a journey with the characters.   I could not put it down, it was a page turner because i had to know what was going to happen and i finished this book with a day and a half. The storyline was told from  three people's point of view, who aren't necessarily connected in the beginning but the connections slowly unravel to show how they all tie together and why they are all important in this story.  We get the views of Travis, Erin and Robin.  Travis is the father of the little girl; Bella, Erin is a woman that Travis and Bella see regularly at the coffee shop and Robin is Bella's mum but why she is not involved is explained later in the book.

From these main characters (there were several other characters in the book that were part of the storyline) i have to say that i took to them all, i felt something for all of them because they had each experienced loss and tragedy in their life, and none of them had any malice about them.  Travis is an amazing guy, putting his daughter first throughout and the love he feels for her is so evident that you can feel it.  Through is life with Bella, you begin to fall in love with the absolute cuteness of this little girl who has her parents' determination, resilience and strength.  Travis seems to attract bad luck though, no matter what he does.  There is such desperation also with this character to get his daughter back! He only wanted to do good but made a bad decision.  Erin is a character who is going through so much, once again, the reader can really sense how she is feeling and can sympathise with her, she seems so lost in life that Travis and Bella give her a purpose in life.  Throughout the story Erin's character goes through a journey, one of working through heartbreak and grief; and coming out the other side, gaining strength, determination and growing as an individual. Robin, is also experiencing loss and tragedy and living a 'double life' almost,  she is a kind, warm hearted character and she also is on a journey throughout the story. She also grows as a character, becoming stronger and more determined. 

With all this occurring with these characters, the story could easily become too much, complex and confusing.  However, this is not the case because the story is very slow paced, which works perfectly as it let's you take the information in, and digest it, which enriches the story on all levels.  Whilst being such an emotional book, the writing is beautiful.  The reader isn't feed the information about the characters, you discover it yourself, you see the underlying messages, you are able to use your imagination more because you discover how it is.  Also, including all this is an element of suspense throughout the book, wondering what will happen, how does it all tie together, is it all going to 'come good' at the end or has he lost Bella forever.  In my view, there is nothing that would make this book any better, i was so sad it had finished but when i saw there was an epilogue i did a little scream because i love these. This book really has stayed with in and in fact i could read it again :)

I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars because I well and truly LOVED it.

*****

Book Review- New Girl.

New Girl
by Paige Harbison

320 pages
Published May 4th 2012 by Mira
 (first published January 31st 2012 by Harlequin Teen)
ISBN 184845063X
 (ISBN13: 9781848450639).

Firstly, kind thanks to the publishers, Mira, for granting me the permission to review an early release of this book via Netgalley.
This book was read on my computer as the arc was to be downloaded onto abode..

Book Description.

A contemporary young-adult retelling inspired by the classic 1938 romantic suspense bestseller Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier.

They call me 'New Girl'...

Ever since I arrived at exclusive, prestigious Manderly Academy, that’s who I am. New girl. Unknown. But not unnoticed—because of her.

Becca Normandy—that’s the name on everyone’s lips. The girl whose picture I see everywhere. The girl I can’t compare to. I mean, her going missing is the only reason a spot opened up for me at the academy. And everyone stares at me like it’s my fault.

Except for Max Holloway—the boy whose name shouldn’t be spoken. At least, not by me. Everyone thinks of him as Becca’s boyfriend…but she’s gone, and here I am, replacing her. I wish it were that easy. Sometimes, when I think of Max, I can imagine how Becca’s life was so much better than mine could ever be.

And maybe she’s still out there, waiting to take it back.
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My Review.
Firstly, many thanks to Mira for granting me the early review of this book for which it was kindly received via Netgalley.  The arc was sent as a download version onto my laptop to read via Adobe.  The book was published before my Harlequin Teen, but with a different book cover.  To quickly discuss the book cover, there is such a difference between this one and the previous one, which i will include below.  Initially, i did prefer the current version, but then the older one grew on me because after reading i could see how it connected to the story.  However, when first looking at the cover with the title, you wouldn't have any clue what the book was about or what to expect.  I know the saying is not to judge a book by it's cover but people do and they have expectations of what the story is about.  The current cover does make you think of a schoolgirl with the book and the locker and the pop stripy socks, and with 'New Girl' title..it's bingo.

The storyline is of a girl starting a boarding school, which she has wanted to go to since she was younger. She got turned down at thirteen but her parents kept applying for her and she got a place for her last year at school, it meant she had to move quite far away.  The only reason she got the place is because a student 'Becca' had disappeared.  This whole storyline didn't fit that comfortably with me or seem that believable, that one, her parent would keep applying without her knowledge because what you want as you go through your teens changes- she got the idea of boarding school from Harry Potter books!  Therefore, it could have just being a phase she was going through.  Her parents had already paid in advance without her knowledge, which considering what i have just said seems a bit far fetched and a big risk.  Plus, in the last year of schooling, the most important year, she would go to a new school, be uprooted, know no-one and risk affecting her grades, surely parents wouldn't do that and also would a teenager in this situation actually go when the idea has phased out. There were other 'situations' that occurred during the story that seemed so far-fetched and so questionable that it wasn't believable. I will mention these later in the review.

Apart from this, i really enjoyed the book.  It was given from two points of view- Becca's and also the new girl- Interestingly we don't find out her name until the end! I didn't even realise this till past half way.  The different view points made the story far more interesting as you got an all round view of the characters and events.  It begins with both Becca and the new girl starting at the school and then alternates with the chapters, but thankfully it states whether it's Becca's chapter or not, so the reader doesn't become confused.  It sort of answers questions that the new girl has, by giving Becca's side of the story, which is really from the past (the year before).  The storyline is definitely enhanced by doing it this way rather than just a flat storyline from the new girl's view of starting the school.

There is several character's in this book that feature in both points of view-the main ones been; Dana, Max and Johnny.  I easily took to the new girl's character, she is just your normal kind hearted teenager who aims to please.  Becca was a complex character that i disliked initially, she was rude, arrogant, b*tchy, selfish, and i could go on but as the story goes on, you realise that this is all a front and really she's a lost and lonely person wanting to be loved and she does this by being the centre of attention.  Becca's character is pushed by the narrator in my view, it's sort of spoon fed that 'this is how she is', she's not given the chance to develop from the reader's perspective.  Now a character that is given this chance is Dana, the room mate to Becca and then the new girl.  She is there, in the background and you aren't told about her but she seems sort of dark, miserable, moody and obsessive- you are not told from the narrator that she is x,y,z, if you get what i mean.  This is fantastic because you discover it as a reader and you begin to understand and from that you get your answers and her character seems to blossom.  Interestingly, part of the storyline is that Becca's belonging are still in the room that the new girl moves into, now i am sure this would not be the case in the school and they would move them! again another unbelievable part of the plot.  However, the story wouldn't be the same if this didn't happen.  Another character is Max, you see two very different sides of him from each of the girl's views  and how he treats them differently.  Johnny seems to be the same from both sides and is a kind caring guy with some mystery about him.  Funnily enough both the girls fell for the same guy!!

The characters, even though in a boarding school, seem to party a lot (security taking no notice and umm what about the teachers?? so not believable again but hey never mind, the plot would not happen without this) and there is a lot of drinking, some drugs, and sexual encounters.  It doesn't go into detail or be descriptive with the sexual encounters but you just know what is happening, and it happens so often and so freely.  It didn't bother me too much but it wouldn't sit comfortably with some people, especially as they are teenagers.  From the drinking and drugs we learn the effects and there is some horrid explanations and encounters which highlight the effects.  There could be some underlining messages in this book for teenagers in relation to the opposite sex, partying, drinking and all that goes with it and what can happen.  It feels bizarre reading a book that mentions Harry Potter and Facebook, how times change.

The story is a definite page turner, especially during some parts.  It has an eerie and mystery feeling to it, with some creepiness (going to the boathouse!) whilst being completely captivating and intriguing  because you want to know what has happened and from Becca's point of view you could find out why and how in more depth.  To be honest, I think the ending needed a bit more of a thriller aspect but overall, this book has substance to it and for that i would definitely recommend it.

I have given this book 4 out of 5 stars.

****

This is the other cover.