The Charade (Eden Falls Academy #1) by Judy Corry {Review}

The Charade (Eden Falls Academy #1) by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 402 pages
Publication May 17, 2021

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

My math tutor has one rule: he doesn’t date the girls he tutors at our private school.

But a fake relationship that’s beneficial to us both? That’s a different story.

Our agreement helps Carter get revenge on his ex while it helps me hide the real reason why we’re spending so much time together. Win-win.

Plus, flirting with the hottest guy at school is kind of fun.

As long as the feelings stay as fake as the show we’re putting on, there shouldn’t be a problem. Right?

The Charade is a forbidden romance about the new girl and the guy who everyone sees as untouchable.

 

   

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

Eden Falls is a mystical place, especially when twins Ava and Elyse find themselves attending their senior year there at a boarding school. Lifelong secrets threaten to spill and a fake romance emerges. Told in alternating points-of-view, this story captured me and twisted my heart from start to finish, but especially when a love becomes forbidden. 

 

Corry is a talented genius when it comes to infusing the lighter parts of teen life with the heavy, angsty drama that is always lurking in the shadows. I love how she introduces real-life issues to her characters lives and allows the reader to wade through them with the protagonists, together. Her writing style is engaging, memorable, and raw, and I just can't devour her words fast enough. 

 

Though Ava and Elyse are both great characters, it's Ava's head the reader enters. She struggles with school, but works hard and has such a fun, sassy, flirty personality. We are also treated to Carter's point-of-view and he's a total contradiction. There are some themes and issues that seemed more adult than young adult in this book, but it did help me to know the characters were seniors in high school and some of them had even turned 18. I enjoyed meeting their new friends and classmates and I can't tell you how excited I am to delve into more of their lives in future books!

 

Content Warning: As I mentioned before, this story is real and raw, and while I know a lot of teens are sexually active, it's not something I'm a fan of in books. While the reader doesn't see it happen, it's talked about and implied. Otherwise, there's just kissing/making out.

My Twin Sister's Ex (Sweet Mountain High Year Two #6) by Cindy Ray Hale {Review}

My Twin Sister's Ex (Sweet Mountain High Year Two #6) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition, 153 pages

Published May 1, 2021

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

Onstage with my twin sister’s ex.

What happens when the kissing scene turns real?

Jessilyn

I’ve dreamed of going to theater school for as long as I can remember. When my drama teacher announces a drama competition at our high school, I know it’s the perfect opportunity for me to beef up my college applications. An award like that could help me get into my dream school.

The last thing I was expecting was to get assigned a kissing scene with Bennett. Not only does he think drama is a joke, he used to date my identical twin sister, Jackilyn. Now my only choice is to convince Bennett to actually memorize his lines. I just wasn’t expecting to feel this strongly about him.

Bennett

I thought drama would be easy to pass. Who knew the teacher would be so tough? If I can’t get my grade up, I won’t be able to graduate. When I get paired with Jessilyn for the drama competition, the first thing I want to do is back out. How am I supposed to perform a kissing scene with my ex girlfriend’s insanely jealous twin?

It was one thing to date Jackilyn. She was one of the mean girls, a total rebel. But Jessilyn is a good girl. I can’t let myself fall for her. She deserves better than a bad boy like me. I’ve done things I’m not proud of. But I’m not sure I can stay away from her, and if I want to graduate, I need a good grade in drama. I’m not so sure I’ll make it out of this with my heart intact.

   

My Review: 4 Stars

My sister and I are really close in age and during high school, we often felt compared by friends and boys or even like people thought we were the same person. Jackilyn and Jessilyn are identical twins with completely contrasting personalities, yet somehow, they both have a brush with Bennett. Jackilyn is his ex and Jessilyn is his new drama partner, and while things could be completely sticky and messy with the complicated relationships, Hale writes this story in a way that is sweet and engaging.

I love a fluffy story, but a book with a message zaps me in the heart. The message I took away from this one is that you really can't judge someone only by what you see. People are complex and layered and the first impression that Bennett gives isn't favorable, but there are deep reasons why he appears as he does and I loved delving into his life. Bennett is pretty amazing, as is Jessilyn.

One thing I love about this series is it allows me to vicariously live through the good times of high school. I wish I would've taken theater, but there wasn't room in my schedule, yet I got to have a taste of that experience. Hale does a great job of creating realistic teens and real-life situations, and I really enjoyed it.

Content: mild romance

Warriors of Wing and Flame (Sisters of Shadow and Light Book 2) by Sara B. Larson {Review}

Warriors of Wing and Flame (Sisters of Shadow and Light Book 2) by Sara B. Larson

379 pages

October 27, 2020 by Tor Teen 

Source: Audiobook and I own a copy of the book

 

 

The doorway between the magical Visempirum and the human world has been reopened. Paladin are once more living in the citadel where Zuhra and Inara grew up completely isolated by the magical hedge that trapped them there. Amidst the brewing conflict between the Paladin and humans looms the threat of Barloc, who has stolen Inara’s immense power and continues to elude the Paladin who are desperately searching for him.

In this sequel to Sisters of Shadow and Light, Inara and Zuhra must navigate the treacherous paths of self-discovery, their love for each other, and for the boys who have captured their hearts. Together, they search for the strength within themselves to bridge the divide between the two worlds they inhabit, even as war threatens to destroy everything—and everyone—they love.

   

My Review: 4 Stars

Zuhra and Inara have a sisterly bond like no other and I love that. I have two sisters myself and love that intangible thread that ties us together, although theirs extends a little more than mine does through magic. Just a warning--this is the second book in the duology and MUST be read after the first. 

I enjoyed this book a bit more than the first, due to the fact that there was more action and romance verses world building. I loved watching these sisters gain strength and confidence in the roles they were thrust into and it was satisfying to watch the people come together for a common cause. The points of view alternated between the sisters and there were times when it was murky trying to figure out who was speaking, but I loved getting the insights from both sides.

It's no secret that I'm all about the romance and the sparkles of attractions that glimmered through the conflict and suspense were life. Larson did a good job of tying all these wonderful fantasy elements together--magic, friction, loyalty, and love. 

Content: mild romance; mild violence/peril

Love & Luck (Love & Gelato #2) by Jenna Evans Welch {Review}

Love & Luck (Love & Gelato #2) by Jenna Evans Welch

Hardcover, 303 pages

Published May 8th 2018 by Simon Pulse 

Source: Audiobook

 

 

 

"I wanted this to be real life, not a detour...."

Addie is visiting Ireland for her aunt’s over-the-top destination wedding and hoping she can stop thinking about the one horrible thing that left her miserable and heartbroken—and threatens her future. But her brother, Ian, isn’t about to let her forget, and his constant needling leads to arguments and even a fistfight between the two once-inseparable siblings.

But when Addie discovers an unusual guidebook, Ireland for the Heartbroken, hidden in the dusty shelves of the hotel library, she’s finally able to escape her anxious mind—and Ian’s criticism.

And then their travel plans change. Suddenly Addie finds herself on a whirlwind tour of the Emerald Isle, trapped in the world’s smallest vehicle with Ian and his admittedly cute Irish-accented friend Rowan. As the trio journeys over breathtaking green hills, past countless castles, and through a number of fairy-tale forests, Addie hopes her guidebook will heal not only her broken heart, but also her shattered relationship with her brother.

That is, if they don’t get completely lost along the way.

 

  

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

This author has a way of grasping teenage angst and modern issues that teens face by the horns and immersing it all in an emotional story. Addie and her brother, Ian, are fighting while at an aunt's wedding in Ireland and a big change of plans, unbeknownst to their mother, leads them on a wild adventure across the Emerald Isle. 

 

The sibling relationships pierce the heart, while the guidebook that Addie follows was an unexpected turn. It was difficult not to feel Addie's anxiety over the big secret that is keeping her from her enjoying the normal brother-sister relationship with Ian. Rowan, a new Irish friend, added a lighter element to a somewhat melancholy feel. While there wasn't a lot of romance, the issues between friends and family were plenty, and the cast of characters and charming escapade allowed for an entertaining literary vacation.   

Content: mild language

First Shift (The Wolves of Rock Falls) by AJ Skelly {Review}

First Shift (The Wolves of Rock Falls) by AJ Skelly

Paperback, First Edition

Published 2021 by Wild Rose Press, Inc 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

 

Sam Wolfe has been in love with Megan Carmichael for years. Too bad she's off-limits. She's human. He's not. When an accidental slip of his teeth endangers Megan and his entire werewolf pack, it's up to Sam to find a solution. Unbeknownst to them, Sam's bite has thrust Megan into the crosshairs of a killer. Sam and Megan must work together to find the threat, protect the pack, and maybe fall in love. But they better do it before the next full moon.  

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

It's a little cliche for a werewolf book to have a Wolfe family, but don't let that scare you off. Although this isn't my typical go-to genre, I found it to be interesting and entertaining. I love the world Skelly created, merging humans with werewolves. Although the main characters are teens, there are many moments of swoon, danger, and mystery swirling around them.

 

Sam and Megan are believable protagonists, acting their ages with the drama, jealousy, indecisiveness, and immaturity, but after a slowish accidental start, the growth that occurred within each of them and between them was as intense as the flourishing plot. I found myself deeply caring about what would happen and wondering how it would all resolve, especially when a few twists made their appearances. 

 

This isn't a one-and-done story, but is the start of something intriguing, and I'm looking forward to reading more to see how it will all come together. 

 

Content: moderate (PG-13) romance (passionate kissing, some innuendo, fade-to-black between a married couple, frank talk of sex); mild + (PG/PG-13) violence (wolf bites and fights/injuries); mild language

My After-School Tutor (Sweet Mountain High: Year Two #1) by Randi Rigby {Review}

My After-School Tutor (Sweet Mountain High: Year Two #1) by Randi Rigby

Kindle Edition, 157 pages

Published December 1st 2020 by Sweet Heart Books 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

 

 

Wanting to be someone's first choice is never enough...

Milla

It's like the universe dumped on me from day one. It wasn't enough that I had to put up with having Jasmine--a walking, talking, breathing Barbie doll--for a sister.

"Let's make Milla short, so she'll ALWAYS have to look up to her as well."

Fine. I'd never wanted anything of hers anyway.
Until a certain blue-eyed boy crossed my path, that is.
And he fell head over heels.
For my sister.
Of course he did.
How can I help Zayn with his studies and still escape with my heart intact?

Zayn

Getting a scholarship to play college football had been my dream since I first learned to throw a spiral as a kid. And I had the talent. Just not the grades. College programs expected their quarterbacks to not only pass their classes, but to do so by a comfortable margin. That was a skill set I needed to work on.

Maybe I needed more help than I thought.
I had an online tutor who wouldn't tell me who she was.
An ex-girlfriend I couldn't shake.
And the new girl, Milla, really didn't like me--everybody liked me. I'm a likable guy.

Whatever. I could take a hit. I'd just rather be run over by a charging defensive lineman than get on the wrong side of Milla Kent. Which I somehow managed to do. Girls.
Forget math. I needed a tutor for the opposite sex.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

I loved high school. That doesn't mean I would want to go back, but I have good memories and this series transports me back to my past. I don't know a lot about football, but I loved going to the games and cheering my school on and in this first book of the new year at Sweet Mountain High, Milla becomes an assistant to the team and takes her job seriously. It would be hard to be a new student for your senior year, and I loved watching Milla figure her life out and thrive in her new environment.

Zayn doesn't make a good first impression, but his charm, animation, and sincerity made him grow on me very quickly. I loved how opposite they were from each other, yet how likable they both were. The tutor angle was a tiny bit strange, since it was anonymous, but that's kind of what made it so enjoyable. I liked the way Rigby switches back and forth between points of view and really gets into the characters heads.

If a cute high school romance is your cup of tea, be sure to check out this book and this series!

Content: mild romance; very mild violence (sports related)

My Totally Off-Limits Best Friend (Sweet Mountain High) by M.L. Collins {Review}

My Totally Off-Limits Best Friend (Sweet Mountain High) by M.L. Collins

Kindle Edition, 175 pages

Published January 1st 2021 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

 

There’s this guy…
And he’s hot, smart, fun, and totally off-limits.
Why? Because he’s my best friend.
Never fall for your best friend.
Too late, you say?
Right. Me too.
My next piece of advice: whatever you do…
Do not—as in never ever—offer to help him practice kissing.
Worst. Mistake. Ever.

There’s this girl…
And she’s awesome, but she thinks I’m totally off-limits.
Why? Because I’m not on her radar as boyfriend material.
Never let other people define you.
Too late, you say?
Right. Me too.
My next piece of advice: whatever you do…
Do—have a plan—because you only live life once.
Take. The. Risk.  

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

I love a cute YA high school romance and this one dropped an unrequited best friends love right into my hands. True to teenage fashion, there wasn't a lot of in-depth communication between Tessa and her best friend Spencer, but there is a loyalty there that was endearing. Setting aside your own wants to help someone else find theirs isn't an easy thing to do.

 

Tessa is a model student, but I loved the way she took the senior art project that fell into her lap and ran with it, landing her in some trouble, but bringing some fun and laughs to the scene. She's a sweet, yet quirky character, with her own unique style, which reflects her personality. Spencer is a character who had me both cheering him on and flinching with the awkwardness of his quest.

Full of cliches and stereotypes, this story was comfortable and relatively free of an overload of drama and angst. I loved the garage band element and even reluctantly enjoyed "the plan," and although the ending is fairly predictable, it still caught me off guard and I didn't like that. I wanted it to come around on a different path. All's well that ends well and I'll just keep thinking about the cute and funny moments throughout.

Content: mild romance (kissing); one party scene that was thwarted

The Promposal (The Ugly Stepsister #2) by Sariah Wilson {Review}

The Promposal (The Ugly Stepsister #2) by Sariah Wilson

Kindle Edition, 164 pages

Published May 15th 2018 by Kindle press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

 

 

Now that life has finally given her everything she’s ever wanted, Mattie Lowe has one thing on her mind: Prom. Determined to throw the most epic prom ever, Mattie sets out to plan a memorable and magical event—one that would make the late John Hughes proud.

But when her gorgeous and perfect boyfriend, Jake Kingston hasn’t popped the most creative promposal of all time, Mattie starts to worry. Actually, Jake hasn’t asked her at all—he’s been distant and quiet. And Mattie isn’t about to go to her senior prom solo. Suddenly, it seems that everything is stacked against her and falling apart quickly. With rivals vowing to sabotage her event and her boyfriend’s odd behavior, Mattie’s convinced the night is headed toward ruin. Will the snarky, purple-haired manga artist lead her class to an unforgettable night of fun and frolic or will she go down in high school history as the worst president to run the school?

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

Oh, how I remember the high school days of prom. Most of the students at my school did the elaborate ways of asking and answering, but Malibu Prep took it to a whole new level. I loved the way this story transported me back to my that time of my life and Wilson did a great job of portraying the angst and character growth during the senior year of Mattie and her boyfriend, Jake. 

 

Mattie is snarky and quirky, but her heart of gold emerges as she goes through the stress and conflicts of high school. Jake is a keeper, but it drove me crazy with how distracted and clueless he was at times. Alas...it's typical for high school. 

 

I love it when a cover matches the book completely and this one is perfection. In a light-hearted and fun way, with plenty of nods to the 80s, Wilson carries out a delightfully sweet story. This is a great series and now I'm hoping for Ella, Mattie's stepsister) to find her happily ever after.

 

Content: mild romance  

Love & Olives by Jenna Evans Welch {Review}

Love & Olives by Jenna Evans Welch

Audiobook, 15 pages (Hardback, 512 pages)

Published November 10th 2020 by Simon & Schuster Audio

 

Liv Varanakis doesn’t have a lot of fond memories of her father, which makes sense—he fled to Greece when she was only eight. What Liv does remember, though, is their shared love for Greek myths and the lost city of Atlantis. So when Liv suddenly receives a postcard from her father explaining that National Geographic is funding a documentary about his theories on Atlantis—and will she fly out to Greece and help?—Liv jumps at the opportunity.

But when she arrives to gorgeous Santorini, things are a little…awkward. There are so many questions, so many emotions that flood to the surface after seeing her father for the first time in years. And yet Liv doesn’t want their past to get in the way of a possible reconciliation. She also definitely doesn’t want Theo—her father’s charismatic so-called “protégé”—to witness her struggle.

And that means diving into all that Santorini has to offer—the beautiful sunsets, the turquoise water, the hidden caves, and the delicious cuisine. But not everything on the Greek island is as perfect as it seems. Because as Liv slowly begins to discover, her father may not have invited her to Greece for Atlantis, but for something much more important. 

   

My Review: 4 Stars

A cute boy. A gorgeous location. Reuniting with your long lost dad. What could be better? Liv hasn't seen her dad for years, but is now in Greece, helping him and his cute assistant, Theo, with a documentary on the lost city of Atlantis. It might seem like fun and games, but there are a lot of bumps on this road to coming-of-age.

Welch does a great job of transporting the reader to a beautiful setting on a multi-level engaging adventure. This story isn't fast-paced, but made me feel like I was there, working on this age-old mystery and coming to know Santorini and its residents, as well as unraveling the reasons why Liv's father has been missing from her life for so many years. 

There are some twists and turns embedded in the angst, and the characters are real and flawed, with vivid emotions. Although I liked Theo, it took me a minute to warm up to him, as well as to Liv's father. 

All in all, this Mama Mia inspired tale was an enjoyable diversion.

Content: mild romance

Basketballs and Mistletoe by Julie L. Spencer {Review}

Basketballs and Mistletoe by Julie L. Spencer

Kindle Edition, 83 pages

Published November 17th 2019 

Source: Kindle Freebie

 

    

 

Too many basketballs and not enough kissing.

All Matt Bailey wants is to focus on his position as starting point guard for the varsity basketball team. When an epic kiss and a social media scandal forces him into the arms of the beautiful and spunky Trina Wynter, he finds himself in a fake relationship with a girl just crazy enough to think she can take on the world.

When Trina gets cut from the girls’ basketball team, she thinks her senior year is wasted, until a closetful of basketballs and two hundred sprigs of mistletoe bring every athlete in Grand Haven High School together for a good cause, and a great excuse for more kissing.

My Review: 3.5 Stars

I love basketball and basketball players, and what better to have them star in a holiday romance? Matt and Trina both have something in common with their dreams for senior year, but sometimes that's all dreams are--dreams. I loved the way Trina was able to think outside herself and turn her dream into a community-wide service opportunity.

I also love fake relationships, especially when they develop because of a spark of attraction and a misunderstanding situation, just as this one did. I loved the way this one played out, even in such a short amount of pages.

I did have a few mixed feelings. The story and characters were a little juvenile at times, but I can excuse that because it's YA, so of course they're true to the age. But there was a major issue thrown into the mix and although it was hinted at once or twice, I didn't feel that the full complication fit into a story so short.

Overall, this was a fun escape and these YA Christmas books are great because they always seem to take me back to a fun and memorable time in my life.

Content: mild romance

The Candy Cane Kiss by Maggie Dallen {Review}

The Candy Cane Kiss by Maggie Dallen

Kindle Edition, 180 pages

Published November 1st 2018 

 

   

 

Fake kisses shouldn't taste so sweet.

When the new star quarterback at Briarwood High winds up in the hospital over Christmas break, he's sure that's as bad as it can get. 

He's wrong. His day is about to get so much worse. First he's stuck with that irritating new girl from school who's currenly dressed as a holly jolly Christmas elf as she volunteers on his floor. Then his ex shows up and asks his permission to bring her new boyfriend to his family's Christmas party, and then...well, then he makes it all a million times worse by kissing the closest girl at hand, who just happens to be that weirdo candy striper with a penchant for Grandma cardigans and candy-cane striped tights. She also happens to be the only girl at Briarwood who doesn't like him. He couldn't have chosen a worse fake girlfriend if he'd tried. So the question is...if this relationship is all wrong, why does it feel so right?

Lola is a self-proclaimed freak and a military brat just waiting to graduate so she can take the first bus out of Briarwood. She's also more than a little obsessed with all things retro. Including swing dancing. The only problem? Swing dancing requires a partner. Where on earth is she supposed to find a willing dance partner in the sea of conformist mediocrity that is her new high school? Fortunately for her, the arrogant jerk in the hospital bed needs her more than she needs him if he stands any chance of winning back his ex. So yeah, she'll help him. For a price. But the closer they get, the more she hates the idea of handing him over to his perfect ex, and the more she has to wonder. Will she be the one paying the price...with a broken heart?

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

I'm all about characters who are unique and can be true to themselves and that's just how Lola is. She's quirky and has a style all her own (hello, retro?), but this girl has a heart of gold and doesn't seem to care about things that other teens do. What a breath of fresh air! A funny first meet with her complete and total opposite, a jerk, I mean jock, from her school opens the door for all sorts of hilarious trouble. Lucas needs Lola, and Lola needs Lucas...for different reasons, but a fake relationship with each other is exactly what results. 

I'm way past my teen years, but my inner teen loved this story and the way it played out. There were so many instances when things weren't as they seemed and I loved watching these young characters overcome prejudices to accept what is real and different.

This Christmas story is randomly sprinkled with angsty complications, but the overall feeling is sweet and simple. This is just the type of feel-good story that will appeal to teen readers, or the young at heart.

Content: moderate language (one or two more crass words, but mostly a lot of one mild word), mild romance

Don't Forget Me (Ridgewater High #2) by Judy Corry {Review}

Don't Forget Me (Ridgewater High #2) by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 314 pages

Published October 25th 2017 

Source: Audiobook

 

 

Eliana Costa has never kissed a guy. Her best guy friend, Jess, is more than willing to help her out. He has plenty of experience, since he finds a new girlfriend every other week. But when a practice kiss brings on feelings Eliana hadn't bargained for, her already messy life is thrown into a new level of chaos. 

Life is already more than she can handle after her dad's disappearance. Eliana worries that if she admits her feelings to Jess, she just might lose her best friend. And right now, a best friend is all she needs. But when another girl tries to date Jess, Eliana is forced to decide if taking a chance on love is worth the risk.

Don't Forget Me is a standalone novel in The Ridgewater High series, a collection of simmering YA contemporary romances. If you like sweet romance with ballad-worthy chemistry, and endearing characters then you'll love Judy Corry's latest romance series.

 

   

My Review: 4 Stars 

This series has rooted itself in a place in my heart and although I read the books out of order, they were each so good with a depth that always surprised me. In this story, Eliana and Jess are best friends who deal with a lot of blows to their long relationship, causing it to capsize in the storm of life. Eliana, especially, has a lot to deal with, as her personal life has blown up, changing everything she's known, yet she still remains the sweet, loyal, and kind person she's always been.

Honestly, Jess was pretty much a jerk for most of the book, allowing misunderstandings and pride to cloud his view. I was so worked up over him and it forced me to realize just how good of an author Ms. Corry is to evoke those strong emotions in me.

The relationships are complicated and tightly woven together in a tangled up ball of yarn, making it difficult, but not impossible, to unravel and I enjoyed the process. I love how these young adult stories have substance to them, yet aren't whiny and too angsty.

Content: mild romance; alcohol abuse, very mild physical abuse and neglect

It Was Always You (Ridgewater High #3) by Judy Corry {Review}

 It Was Always You (Ridgewater High #3) by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 292 pages

Published July 6th 2018 

Source: Audiobook

 

What’s the first rule when pretending to date your brother’s best friend? Don’t let feelings get involved.

Sixteen-year-old Lexi Stevens has never been kissed—never even been asked on a date. So when she humiliates herself in front of her crush and her brother’s best friend offers to be her fake boyfriend for the week to make her crush jealous, she doesn’t know if it’s the stupidest idea ever, or a dream come true.

When Noah Taylor’s abusive stepdad kicks him out of the house, the last thing he needs is for anyone at school to find out—not even his best friend. But when his new “girlfriend” discovers he’s homeless and lets him sleep in her closet, he starts to wonder if he’s found someone he can confide in after all.

Soon Noah and Lexi are putting on a big show in front of the whole school while sneaking around behind her overprotective father’s back. It isn’t long before feelings develop, and it becomes harder and harder to discern between what’s fake and what’s real.

     

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

This series has surprised me. I haven't read it in order and believe each installment can stand alone, yet there is a depth to the characters that can't be understood without delving into each story. Noah was a big, fat jerk in Book 1, but realizing his situation redeemed him. Why the surprise? I feel like most high school teen romances are fluffy and superficially deal with drama and angst, but this series digs deep into sensitive modern-day issues, and because of that, an unexpected depth is delivered.

 

Noah and Lexi began with a mutually beneficial fake relationship, but things quickly take unforeseen twists and turns that convey all the feels. Abuse is one of the hard issues addressed and it was hard to read about that as a parent, yet was written about in a realistic and tactful way.

 

This opposites attract, brother's best friend, fake romance, young adult romance stuck with me for awhile. The romance is a little heavier than I prefer for a teen romance, but it's reality and in all honesty, kind of swoony. Corry does a great job of playing on the reader's emotions in this series. While each story is super cute, they're real, raw, and believable.

Content: abuse (not graphic); mild-moderate romance (talk of sex and waiting, some innuendo, steamy clean kissing, implied teen relations)

Meet Me There (Ridgewater High #1) by Judy Corry {Review}

 

Meet Me There (Ridgewater High #1) by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 266 pages

Published March 6th 2018

 

  

 A dark Chemistry lab. A fake British accent. It's all fun and games until somebody falls in love.

When sixteen-year-old, Ashlyn Brooks, runs into a sweet British guy in the dark Chemistry lab, she has no idea she's actually sitting in the pitch black room with her longtime rival, Luke Davenport. She also doesn't know that she's stepped into another one of the football captain's pranks. It isn't long before she's sharing things she's never told anyone, and starting to fall for the mysterious guy with a sexy accent who seems to understand her in a way no one ever has before.

When Luke's mom dies the summer before his senior year, he turns to pranking Ashlyn to keep his mind off his loss. But the more he gets to know her, the more he regrets using his fake British accent in the first place. Soon Luke is walking the thin line of keeping his lies a secret and wishing he could tell her that the boy she's falling for is really him.

Meet Me There is a standalone novel in The Ridgewater High series, a collection of simmering YA contemporary romances. If you like sweet romance with ballad-worthy chemistry, swoony kisses and endearing characters then you'll love Judy Corry's latest book.

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

There's something so delicious about a secret identity romance and this one, set in a dark corner of a high school, was pure fun. Although I keep getting older, these teen romances will always hold a piece of my heart, catapulting me back to the good parts of my past.

 

Full of cuteness and fluff, I wasn't expecting the thick ribbon of depth that I found. I loved watching the story unravel, as the characters grew and matured. I loved feeling different emotions, without wading into too much angst, and the dancing scenes were an added bonus.

Content: mild romance (kisses); mild moments of seriousness (death, bullying, abuse, etc)

The Geography of You and Me by Jennifer E. Smith {Review}

The Geography of You and Me by Jennifer E. Smith

Hardcover, 337 pages

Published April 15th 2014 by Poppy

Source: Library

Lucy and Owen meet somewhere between the tenth and eleventh floors of a New York City apartment building, on an elevator rendered useless by a citywide blackout. After they’re rescued, they spend a single night together, wandering the darkened streets and marveling at the rare appearance of stars above Manhattan. But once the power is restored, so is reality. Lucy soon moves to Edinburgh with her parents, while Owen heads out west with his father.

Lucy and Owen’s relationship plays out across the globe as they stay in touch through postcards, occasional e-mails, and—finally—a reunion in the city where they first met.

A carefully charted map of a long-distance relationship, Jennifer E. Smith’s new novel shows that the center of the world isn't necessarily a place. It can be a person, too.

My Review: 4 Stars

There was something soft and sweet about this throwback story. In an age where texting and social media are all the rage and the ways that most teens seem to communicate through, it was refreshing to see Lucy and Owen, two vastly different people from opposite worlds, have a fluke meeting, an exciting couple of days during a power outages, and then keep in touch through emails and postcards.

Reminiscent of Sleepless in Seattle--teen-style--this book really touches the heart, especially through this year of growth, change, and self-awareness and discovery. The angst is strong, while the whisper of romance is secondary. I was expecting romance to play a bigger part, but this is the type of story that takes the reader on a journey and stays in the shadows of the mind for a few days.

Content: mild language; very mild romance

My Best Friend Prince Charming (Sweet Mountain High #6) by Cindy Ray Hale {Review}

My Best Friend Prince Charming (Sweet Mountain High #6) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition, 139 pages

Publication: July 9th 2020

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

    

They were best friends. He’s always wanted more. Will his newfound fame destroy them?

Shannon
Ryker and I have been best friends since third grade. We were the poor kids in the school, but that didn’t matter. We always had each other. And we had big plans to get scholarships and make something out of our lives. But now he’s been discovered by a big time Hollywood film director who wants to cast him as Prince Charming in an upcoming production of Cinderella. 
Our college plans have been flushed down the toilet overnight, and now Ryker’s become famous with a ridiculous amount of money coming his way.
Thanks to the paparazzi, girls are swarming him both in person and online. And Ryker seems to love every minute of it. It’s so annoying.
I feel like I’m losing my best friend in the worst way possible, and I’m starting to wonder if maybe I’ve been lying to myself about my feelings for Ryker for a long time. 

Ryker
I’ve secretly had feelings for my best friend Shannon for years, but she’s solidly kept me in the friend zone. 
When a famous Hollywood director sees me as the lead in his niece's high school play, he casts me on the spot as Prince Charming in his upcoming Cinderella film. I’m in shock and on top of the world as my biggest, wildest dreams are coming true. I’m finally leaving behind my old life of poverty and moving up in the world. 
But now Shannon’s acting super weird and withdrawn. I don’t understand why she can’t just be happy for me. I wish she could see that I don’t care about the fangirls. Shannon’s the only girl I’ve ever wanted, and nothing, not even fortune and fame will change that. 
But I’m afraid that all this luck may prove to be unlucky after all. Because if I lose Shannon, will it really have been worth it?

My Review: 4 Stars

I, for one, am charmed by royalty and back in the day, loved daydreaming about my favorite Hollywood crush, so this story settled right into my past self's heart.

I loved the deep friendship that Ryker and Shannon share and as they come to recognize their true feelings in this rags-to-riches, friends-to-lovers, young adult romance, I was captivated. The chapters alternated points-of-view, which enhanced the story, although there were times when I wished for more depth. Keep in mind, these are teenagers, and while at times they seem utterly mature, there are plenty of times when their age shows, leaving plenty of room for the angst and drama.

Sweet Mountain High is a beloved place for me, but the setting for this one really focuses on the theatrical, Hollywood side that is introduced because of Ryker's acting talent and the buzz that ensues was almost crushing. Ryker is very accommodating and sweet, while Shannon is a little more cynical and hesitant, but their relationship works and they are both great characters. This is a great series that takes me back in time.

Content: mild romance

Moment of Truth by Kasie West {Review}

Moment of Truth by Kasie West

Hardcover, 320 pages

Published March 3rd 2020 by HarperTeen 

Source: Library

 

    

 

At sixteen, Hadley Moore knows exactly who she is—a swimmer who will earn a scholarship to college. Totally worth all the hard work, even if her aching shoulders don’t agree. So when a guy dressed as Hollywood’s latest action hero, Heath Hall, crashes her swim meet, she isn’t amused. Instead, she’s determined to make sure he doesn’t bother her again. Only she’s not sure exactly who he is.

The swim meet isn’t the first event the imposter has interrupted, but a little digging turns up a surprising number of people who could be Heath Hall, including Hadley's ex-boyfriend and her best friend’s crush. She soon finds herself getting caught up in the mysterious world of the fake Heath Hall.

As Hadley gets closer to uncovering the masked boy’s identity she also discovers some uncomfortable truths about herself—like she might resent the long shadow her late brother has cast over her family, that she isn’t as happy as she pretends to be with her life choices… and that she is falling for the last guy she ever thought she would like.

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

How many 16 year olds know exactly what they want in life? My guess is not a ton, but Hadley sure does. When a masked action hero crashes her swim meet, she finds herself smack in the middle of a mystery that won't leave her alone. 

 

I loved the dangling mystery element and the way Hadley sets out to solve it, but Kasie West is a genius at allowing her characters to struggle and grow. This coming-of-age story tugs at the heartstrings and takes the reader on a delightful journey of self-discovery, as the characters are brought to life. 

 

I really enjoyed this book and the way it all came together in both expected and unexpected ways. 

 

Content: mild romance