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me@you.com
Is it possible to fall in love with someone you’ve never met? Imogen Summers thinks so because it’s happened to her.
Immy is a normal eighteen-year-old, with a normal life, a normal family, and a normal boyfriend. But when she finds herself falling for a girl on an Internet message board, a girl she knows only as the mysterious Fickle, her so-called normal life is suddenly turned on its head.
As her relationship with Fickle develops into more than just friendship, Immy finds another message board friend, the sweet and lovely Freddie, the perfect person to confide in. But can Freddie stay out of it when she starts to fall for Immy herself? Things are about to get complicated...
Immy is a normal eighteen-year-old, with a normal life, a normal family, and a normal boyfriend. But when she finds herself falling for a girl on an Internet message board, a girl she knows only as the mysterious Fickle, her so-called normal life is suddenly turned on its head.
As her relationship with Fickle develops into more than just friendship, Immy finds another message board friend, the sweet and lovely Freddie, the perfect person to confide in. But can Freddie stay out of it when she starts to fall for Immy herself? Things are about to get complicated...
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
4 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
K.E. Payne
9 books52 followersKE Payne was born in Bath, the English city, not the tub, and after leaving school she worked for the British government for fifteen years, which probably sounds a lot more exciting than it really was.
Fed up with spending her days moving paperwork around her desk and making models of the Taj Mahal out of paperclips, she packed it all in to go to university in Bristol and graduated as a mature student in 2006 with a degree in linguistics and history.
After graduating, she worked at a university in the Midlands for a while, again moving all that paperwork around, before finally leaving to embark on her dream career as a writer.
She moved to the idyllic English countryside in 2007 where she now lives and works happily surrounded by dogs and guinea pigs.
Fed up with spending her days moving paperwork around her desk and making models of the Taj Mahal out of paperclips, she packed it all in to go to university in Bristol and graduated as a mature student in 2006 with a degree in linguistics and history.
After graduating, she worked at a university in the Midlands for a while, again moving all that paperwork around, before finally leaving to embark on her dream career as a writer.
She moved to the idyllic English countryside in 2007 where she now lives and works happily surrounded by dogs and guinea pigs.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 16, 2012
I can appreciate a story like "me@you.com" for the way it shows a young, college aged woman coming to terms with her sexuality and ultimately finding a relationship that makes her happy. Imogen (Immy) Summers seems to have a good life surrounding her in the beginning, but is ultimately unfulfilled by it. She has an attentive, steady boyfriend (Matt), attends uni, gushes with fans of a popular TV show featuring a mainstay lesbian couple that she's fascinated by and frequents chatting online with various colorful personalities. But the fact remains that she's looking for something more, and she learns, progressively, that the nature of her relationships have to change in order for her to feel complete.
To be fair, I think the beginning of this book is a little difficult to slug through because the progression of Immy's "coming out" is a bit haphazard. Granted, it's supposed to be awkward - I understood that completely, but I think the presentation of that could've been handled a little better in the writing. I appreciate KE Payne's keen focus to Immy's stumbling blocks and making her a flawed heroine, though. Immy's not the most endearing character at first - she makes a lot of key (and common) relationship mistakes, but I think in some considerations, this make her more realistic. On others, I think more time could've been spent on getting to how she transitions/embraces her sexuality. Also, I think it would've been interesting/noteworthy to see how Immy's family took her sexuality, though I appreciated the range of sentiments that were noted in how others (Immy's friends) perceived her "coming out."
The book gets much better when it actually comes to Immy trying to form her relationships, and realizing the heartache, betrayal, and ultimately the coming to terms with her sentiments in those relationships. I found the bonds built and the interactions between the characters charming and engaging for the most part. I could feel Immy's range of emotions and her sentiments of love are genuine, as much as her heartache. I did wish it could've been a bit more intimate with the emotions in some places, but I still understood the conviction behind many of Immy's experiences and reactions. The thing that I think young adults will gain from reading this book is realizing that it's okay to embrace who you are as a person and to feel comfortable finding the one your heart aligns to. It may take a bit of time getting there, but ultimately finding the one you want to be with is a process, a journey of two that may have its ups and downs, but is worth the time exploring to get there.
Overall score: 3.5/5
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher Bold Strokes Books.
To be fair, I think the beginning of this book is a little difficult to slug through because the progression of Immy's "coming out" is a bit haphazard. Granted, it's supposed to be awkward - I understood that completely, but I think the presentation of that could've been handled a little better in the writing. I appreciate KE Payne's keen focus to Immy's stumbling blocks and making her a flawed heroine, though. Immy's not the most endearing character at first - she makes a lot of key (and common) relationship mistakes, but I think in some considerations, this make her more realistic. On others, I think more time could've been spent on getting to how she transitions/embraces her sexuality. Also, I think it would've been interesting/noteworthy to see how Immy's family took her sexuality, though I appreciated the range of sentiments that were noted in how others (Immy's friends) perceived her "coming out."
The book gets much better when it actually comes to Immy trying to form her relationships, and realizing the heartache, betrayal, and ultimately the coming to terms with her sentiments in those relationships. I found the bonds built and the interactions between the characters charming and engaging for the most part. I could feel Immy's range of emotions and her sentiments of love are genuine, as much as her heartache. I did wish it could've been a bit more intimate with the emotions in some places, but I still understood the conviction behind many of Immy's experiences and reactions. The thing that I think young adults will gain from reading this book is realizing that it's okay to embrace who you are as a person and to feel comfortable finding the one your heart aligns to. It may take a bit of time getting there, but ultimately finding the one you want to be with is a process, a journey of two that may have its ups and downs, but is worth the time exploring to get there.
Overall score: 3.5/5
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher Bold Strokes Books.
December 29, 2011
This story does an excellent job of showing just how easy it is to get burned by internet romance. It's also a perfect example of how teen heartbreak is a universal thing, gay or straight. The start was a little slow, but once it picked up I felt myself totally footing for Immy. Likeable characters with a super sweet ending. A great read to share with others. :)
June 20, 2017
This book falls under the young adult genre. The storyline was totally believable. Every day young people are developing relationships through social media so this topic is quite relevant. Therefore, I believe young people will enjoy this book.
This story of young love and coming out is precious. The fears of not understanding feelings towards the same sex and eventually coming out to friends is done in a very delicate manner. There are, unfortunately, some young adult romance novels that are fast and furious in the sex department.
This story, instead, deals more with the tender development of love. If I had a child, I would not have a problem with her reading this book.
I rate this book a 4 out of 5 stars.
This story of young love and coming out is precious. The fears of not understanding feelings towards the same sex and eventually coming out to friends is done in a very delicate manner. There are, unfortunately, some young adult romance novels that are fast and furious in the sex department.
This story, instead, deals more with the tender development of love. If I had a child, I would not have a problem with her reading this book.
I rate this book a 4 out of 5 stars.
February 21, 2017
KE Payne is one of the more reliable lesfic YA authors. I've read a number of her books and have liked them all.
me@you is a classic teenage coming out story. Immy is 18, in college in the UK, and has a boyfriend that doesn't really interest her even though he is one of the most sought-after boys in their school. She gets involved in an online community of fans of a TV show that features a lesbian couple and there she meets Fickle (screen name) and falls head over heels. She also befriends Joey (a female) who helps her through her coming out process and guides her through her budding relationship with Fickle. But Fickle is aptly named and soon Immy's elation turns to despair.
The book is solid which earns it 4 stars but not exceptional, which would have gotten it to 5. One thing to keep in mind. For some reason, the blurb calls the character Joey, Freddie, which was incredibly confusing. Maybe the author changed the character's name? I don't know.
But if you're looking for a good coming out YA story that includes the realities of online dating, this is a good book to read.
me@you is a classic teenage coming out story. Immy is 18, in college in the UK, and has a boyfriend that doesn't really interest her even though he is one of the most sought-after boys in their school. She gets involved in an online community of fans of a TV show that features a lesbian couple and there she meets Fickle (screen name) and falls head over heels. She also befriends Joey (a female) who helps her through her coming out process and guides her through her budding relationship with Fickle. But Fickle is aptly named and soon Immy's elation turns to despair.
The book is solid which earns it 4 stars but not exceptional, which would have gotten it to 5. One thing to keep in mind. For some reason, the blurb calls the character Joey, Freddie, which was incredibly confusing. Maybe the author changed the character's name? I don't know.
But if you're looking for a good coming out YA story that includes the realities of online dating, this is a good book to read.
August 3, 2016
This is an awesome book! I won't bother giving you the synopsis cos everyone else has already done that, but suffice to say that KE Payne captures the ups and downs of teen love brilliantly. I loved all the English slang - I can't understand why some people are getting worked up about it - sure I had to look up a few words, but sheesh, that's no big deal is it? I understood why Immy did what she did, and as I watched her journey with Fickle and Joey unfold I felt like I was standing in her corner cheering her on. I was pleased that she didn't rush to come out to her parents in this book - that's (for me) real life as a gay teenager (well, I used to be. A teenager that is. I'm still gay.) I have no qualms whatsoever about giving this gem a 5/5 rating. I've now almost finished KE Payne's first book 365 Days which is totally different but fantastic too. So glad to have found such a good writer!
December 23, 2015
♥ Find my reviews on Blogger ~ Reviews by Bookish Sarah
- - -
3.5 stars
Imogen (Immy for short) is just your average 18-year old gal. College, boyfriend, going out with friends, getting schoolwork done, spending time with family, etc.
One evening she discovers an online message board revolving around her current TV obsession, Lovers & Sinners - a show which features a love match between two females. Immy tells herself this isn't the part of the show she is most intrigued by, but it sounds like denial right from the start.
Immy quickly becomes all but addicted to chatting up her new online friends. It seems to become an escape for her, as things with her current boyfriend are a complete stress for her. She stays up into the wee hours of the morning talking to all sorts of new people. She eventually comes across a gal who calls herself Fickle (literally, that's her username), and they hit it off pretty much immediately. They talk on the message board for hours getting to know each other, and then they end up on MSN messenger chatting privately.
This is when Immy begins to feel that something more than friendship may be happening. Is Fickle flirting with her? Why does it make her stomach flip-flop when Fickle sends winkey faces, and why can't she stop thinking about this girl?
Immy comes to the realization - with the help of another online friend called Joey - that she may not be straight. Things have never felt real or even enjoyable with her boyfriend, and even these minor signs of flirtation from Fickle make butterflies swarm in her tummy.
So, what's the next step for Immy?
- - -
Dislikes
The first thing that bothered me was the British slang everywhere. It was super hard for me to get used to! I had to Google some things just because certain sentences or phrases didn't make sense to me. Even with that, I still don't know what some of the things I read actually meant.
Another thing that bugged me was the actual conversing between Fickle and Immy. It felt kind of unrealistic. It seemed too fake to me, not anything like how people actually talk online (or in person, for that matter) and/or flirt, etc. On top of that, it was a bit too immature sounding for women who are supposed to be 18 years of age.
Another problem I had with the conversations was the lack of them. It made it seem like Fickle and Immy "fell for" each other too quickly. Which, I know ends up being the point later on - but I mean, would an 18 year old in 2011 really think she was in love in such a short time, and with someone she knows next to nothing about (other than the fact that she is pretty and flirtatious)? I think not.
That brings me to my next issue - because their relationship seemed so shallow from the outside, I pretty much guessed right off the bat the Fickle wasn't really in this for "love". At first I thought she was trying to get money out of Immy, like some kind of internet predator, ya know? I don't think the actual issues with Fickle were dramatic enough.
My final complaint is a spoiler of sorts. No! I was so let down by that. :(
Likes
Joey. Joey was a great character. She was warm, fun, laid back, and a true friend. Things weren't all about flirting with her. I like that we were able to see her and Immy actually talking more often than we did with Fickle. Their love seemed real. They got to know each other for a much longer time and didn't throw "I love you" out there within a day. Joey was an amazing friend and an even better girlfriend. I enjoyed watching their love unfurl.
I think this book was paced out well. It was a really quick read for me. Less than a day. It had it's light and fun moments, but was obviously about a very serious issue for some. I was on the edge of my seat at times. There were times when I found this story very hard to put down - I needed to know what was going to happen next.
I found the process of Immy realizing she was gay very realistic and equally well done. The author depicted life as a lesbian trying to be straight for the sake of everyone else to the T. Immy was properly scared, nervous and in denial at all the right times. I think the way she handled everything was how your normal, every day woman would.
I would recommend this to young adult readers that like YA Contemporaries, but don't mind some major British lingo. lol Gosh, I still can't get over how many phrases I had to Google to understand.
- - -
ARC source: NetGalley.com, publisher Bold Strokes Books.
January 7, 2012
This review can be found on my blog Dreaming In The Pages
Summary:
Internet romance. In this day and age it is nothing we haven't seen before. The same goes for internet messages boards for our favorite shows, we have all been there and done that and well, to be honest, we all still do it. When you don't feel like anyone else knows you, there is someone out there on web that does. So when 18 year old Imogen [or Immy for short] grows attached to a new show that highlights a romance between two women she takes to a fan message board for Lovers & Sinners, hoping to meet others with the same love of the show she has. It has nothing to do with her fancying the two main women on the show, I mean, you can't be into a girl when you are so obviously straight right? Even if Immy doesn't feel much when she is with Matt[her emo band boyfriend], her best friends Beth and Emily don't let her forget what a catch he is, she should totally be head over heels for him. Every girl is.
So why does Immy start to question everything once she meets Fickle on the boards and starts chating over MSN with her? Why is she getting feelings she doesn't even get from Matt when Fickle starts flirting with her? Questioning her own sexuality Immy confides in another girl she has gotten closer to from the message boards named Joey. Figuring out she might not even be straight Immy is left with a choice. Stick to what is expected, or take a huge leap into the unknown. But Immy is about to find out that not all risks are so great and sometimes you end up finding yourself in the most unexpected of places.
**** **** **** ****
Thoughts:
This is one of those books that just instantly caught my eye while browsing around goodreads one night. Lucky for me I found it on NetGalley and got approved to read it and was ready to jump into it as soon as I downloaded it. I didn't know what to expect from it but as soon as I started it I hit one roadblock. Be ready for some major British slang! Now, at first, I had no idea what the heck some of the sayings were. As the story progressed I pretty much had it figured out and it became very endearing and I actually enjoyed it. I am so use to reading American writers that sometimes it is nice to get a taste of something I am not use to, and it kinda rubbed off on me. It really helped set the story and more so, helped me envision my characters and setting that much more.
The characters in this book were nothing short of amazing. I loved the leading lady Immy and her best friends Emily and Beth. Immy was one of those characters that you just get behind and she went through so many questions and nerve wracking experiences and I felt it along with her. You get to see not only Immy grow into herself, but you get to see her build her relationship up with her friends, who are so welcoming to Immy finding herself. Then you have the two internet ladies that catch Immy in a whirlwind. Fickle, well, is fickle and the biggest flirt you will ever see. While Joey is the most lovable person ever, and she never failed to make me smile. But I have to say, the one thing that really did it for me in this book was how it was narrated.
You are solely in Immy's head, yet a lot of the dialog in this book is in the form of MSN messages. Now, I was a huge MSN messenger fan back in the day and it made the book move that much faster for me. The over the top flirting Fickle pulls is more believable in that sense and the growing relationships with Joey over MSN just clicks more. Most people are freaked about meeting people online but this book shows that sometimes you can create a stronger relationship starting off online than you could in person and with this situation of Immy finding out she isn't straight, it helped her become more comfortable in her own skin with help from others who have been through the same thing. It just shows that there is support out there from people who have had the same problems, you just have to reach out.
This book really grabbed my heart and I was so glad that the ending tied up happily, because that is all I wanted for Immy throughout this whole book. Watching a woman who never felt like she was right finding out that she just never discovered who she truly was, it kinda took my breath away. There is nothing better than reading something that empowers young people everywhere to embrace their true selves, because being happy is the most important thing to have in life.This book fell together perfectly and Immy's journey was one I will read over and over. I know I will be keeping a look out for more books by KE Payne in the future, she is brilliant, and now I know all this awesome British slang. [:
Rating:
****
Four Fabulous Stars
[Made my heart soar]
*And ACR was given to me by netgalley.com and bold stroke books in exchange for a review*
Summary:
Internet romance. In this day and age it is nothing we haven't seen before. The same goes for internet messages boards for our favorite shows, we have all been there and done that and well, to be honest, we all still do it. When you don't feel like anyone else knows you, there is someone out there on web that does. So when 18 year old Imogen [or Immy for short] grows attached to a new show that highlights a romance between two women she takes to a fan message board for Lovers & Sinners, hoping to meet others with the same love of the show she has. It has nothing to do with her fancying the two main women on the show, I mean, you can't be into a girl when you are so obviously straight right? Even if Immy doesn't feel much when she is with Matt[her emo band boyfriend], her best friends Beth and Emily don't let her forget what a catch he is, she should totally be head over heels for him. Every girl is.
So why does Immy start to question everything once she meets Fickle on the boards and starts chating over MSN with her? Why is she getting feelings she doesn't even get from Matt when Fickle starts flirting with her? Questioning her own sexuality Immy confides in another girl she has gotten closer to from the message boards named Joey. Figuring out she might not even be straight Immy is left with a choice. Stick to what is expected, or take a huge leap into the unknown. But Immy is about to find out that not all risks are so great and sometimes you end up finding yourself in the most unexpected of places.
**** **** **** ****
Thoughts:
This is one of those books that just instantly caught my eye while browsing around goodreads one night. Lucky for me I found it on NetGalley and got approved to read it and was ready to jump into it as soon as I downloaded it. I didn't know what to expect from it but as soon as I started it I hit one roadblock. Be ready for some major British slang! Now, at first, I had no idea what the heck some of the sayings were. As the story progressed I pretty much had it figured out and it became very endearing and I actually enjoyed it. I am so use to reading American writers that sometimes it is nice to get a taste of something I am not use to, and it kinda rubbed off on me. It really helped set the story and more so, helped me envision my characters and setting that much more.
The characters in this book were nothing short of amazing. I loved the leading lady Immy and her best friends Emily and Beth. Immy was one of those characters that you just get behind and she went through so many questions and nerve wracking experiences and I felt it along with her. You get to see not only Immy grow into herself, but you get to see her build her relationship up with her friends, who are so welcoming to Immy finding herself. Then you have the two internet ladies that catch Immy in a whirlwind. Fickle, well, is fickle and the biggest flirt you will ever see. While Joey is the most lovable person ever, and she never failed to make me smile. But I have to say, the one thing that really did it for me in this book was how it was narrated.
You are solely in Immy's head, yet a lot of the dialog in this book is in the form of MSN messages. Now, I was a huge MSN messenger fan back in the day and it made the book move that much faster for me. The over the top flirting Fickle pulls is more believable in that sense and the growing relationships with Joey over MSN just clicks more. Most people are freaked about meeting people online but this book shows that sometimes you can create a stronger relationship starting off online than you could in person and with this situation of Immy finding out she isn't straight, it helped her become more comfortable in her own skin with help from others who have been through the same thing. It just shows that there is support out there from people who have had the same problems, you just have to reach out.
This book really grabbed my heart and I was so glad that the ending tied up happily, because that is all I wanted for Immy throughout this whole book. Watching a woman who never felt like she was right finding out that she just never discovered who she truly was, it kinda took my breath away. There is nothing better than reading something that empowers young people everywhere to embrace their true selves, because being happy is the most important thing to have in life.This book fell together perfectly and Immy's journey was one I will read over and over. I know I will be keeping a look out for more books by KE Payne in the future, she is brilliant, and now I know all this awesome British slang. [:
Rating:
****
Four Fabulous Stars
[Made my heart soar]
*And ACR was given to me by netgalley.com and bold stroke books in exchange for a review*
November 15, 2011
This book being outside my comfort-zone, I wasn't sure what to expect. Now, after reading Me@you.com I'm not so sure what to think.
Imogen is your average 18 year-old girl. She has a cute boyfriend, two loyal best friends, an annoying little sister and a massive pile of homework. But when she discovers an internet board of her favourite series, Lovers & Sinners, she soon becomes addicted to talking to her digital friends. She is starting to get feelings for the mysterious Fickle... I she falling in love with a girl she doesn't even know?
I am accustomed to the weird and the paranormal. I feel comfortable talking about vampire brothers, worlds coming to an end, death-by-sex faerie people... But when it comes to stories taken from the "real" world I'm often at loss for words. This is exactly my problem with Me@you.com. This could be any girl, anywhere. This could be someone next door. The events in this book could have been real. It makes me wonder. Do we read to escape our own problems, or do we read to take a peek into someone else's problems?
Philosophical musings aside, Me@you.com is an interesting book. It is written like some kind of internal monologue. This also includes the occasional "wanna" and "gonna", and a "FFS" thrown in for good measure. I might also want to warn you that this book is filled with British slang. I was slightly confused when Immy was "eating her tea" (her dinner, it turns out) and other slightly unusual turns of phrase. It took me a while to get used to; but Immy has a pleasant voice, and after a while I didn't notice the quirks any more.
This definitely isn't a light read. It is captivating, urging you on to continue reading, but you won't read this book smiling. At least I know I didn't. Immy is a troubled girl. She has some pretty hard stuff to get through. It is not easy to accept that you are, and always have been gay. And that you have never had feelings for your boyfriend. That you've been keeping up appearances, just because that's how things go. Ms Payne did an excellent job in bringing all these conflicting thoughts to live. The confusion and denial were brilliantly done. Immy's thoughts could have come straight from some girl's diary.
This is where the big weakness of this book lies, though. Ms Payne will make you feel Immy's pain (no pun intended) and her confusion. This makes for a slightly... depressing read, so to say. Even though there are small light bulbs of hope, it just isn't enough to lighten up this novel. I would have liked some more comical relief, just enough to keep it going.
The three star rating is mainly caused by the ending of this book. I don't want to give anything away - so if you're interested you can read the very mild spoiler:
Overall I think Me@you.com is an interesting book. If you like contemporary young-adult, are interested in lesbian relationships, or maybe dating through the internet, I certainly think you could give this a try.
Imogen is your average 18 year-old girl. She has a cute boyfriend, two loyal best friends, an annoying little sister and a massive pile of homework. But when she discovers an internet board of her favourite series, Lovers & Sinners, she soon becomes addicted to talking to her digital friends. She is starting to get feelings for the mysterious Fickle... I she falling in love with a girl she doesn't even know?
I am accustomed to the weird and the paranormal. I feel comfortable talking about vampire brothers, worlds coming to an end, death-by-sex faerie people... But when it comes to stories taken from the "real" world I'm often at loss for words. This is exactly my problem with Me@you.com. This could be any girl, anywhere. This could be someone next door. The events in this book could have been real. It makes me wonder. Do we read to escape our own problems, or do we read to take a peek into someone else's problems?
Philosophical musings aside, Me@you.com is an interesting book. It is written like some kind of internal monologue. This also includes the occasional "wanna" and "gonna", and a "FFS" thrown in for good measure. I might also want to warn you that this book is filled with British slang. I was slightly confused when Immy was "eating her tea" (her dinner, it turns out) and other slightly unusual turns of phrase. It took me a while to get used to; but Immy has a pleasant voice, and after a while I didn't notice the quirks any more.
This definitely isn't a light read. It is captivating, urging you on to continue reading, but you won't read this book smiling. At least I know I didn't. Immy is a troubled girl. She has some pretty hard stuff to get through. It is not easy to accept that you are, and always have been gay. And that you have never had feelings for your boyfriend. That you've been keeping up appearances, just because that's how things go. Ms Payne did an excellent job in bringing all these conflicting thoughts to live. The confusion and denial were brilliantly done. Immy's thoughts could have come straight from some girl's diary.
This is where the big weakness of this book lies, though. Ms Payne will make you feel Immy's pain (no pun intended) and her confusion. This makes for a slightly... depressing read, so to say. Even though there are small light bulbs of hope, it just isn't enough to lighten up this novel. I would have liked some more comical relief, just enough to keep it going.
The three star rating is mainly caused by the ending of this book. I don't want to give anything away - so if you're interested you can read the very mild spoiler:
Overall I think Me@you.com is an interesting book. If you like contemporary young-adult, are interested in lesbian relationships, or maybe dating through the internet, I certainly think you could give this a try.
September 7, 2016
3.5 stars
I received a digital arc in exchange for an honest review
First off, I wasn't really expecting anything special when I read the blurb for Me@You.com but I was really surprised by this one. I'm not familiar with this Author and her work but I know she wrote the YA novel 365 days and a couple of lesbian Ya novels that people seemed to like so I follow the crowd (not really) and read it.
This book is more on the romance side and it tells the story of a young woman named Imogen trying to find herself in her crazy world of normalcy, school, family, college, and the most uncomfortable....boys. Imogen has the easy life, she dates one of the hottest guys in school: he's in a band and he absolutely adores her! But when Imogen stumbles on an online talk board her life will take a turn of interesting situations that will put her through lust,love,and the ultimate betrayal when she begins to fall in love with a cyber person named Fickle. Will Imogen be able to find out who she is truly meant to be or will she push it aside and crash and burn?
I really loved this book! I really didn't like Imogens character in the beginning because I thought she was a total prude when ever her boyfriend came around and she acted like she didn't want to be bother. Who has a hot ass boyfriend but is disgusted when he holds their hands and tries to go in for a peck on the cheek? Her name is Imogen and we soon find out why she has a dose of the cold shoulder.
As the story progresses we meet two important characters who will drastically change Imogens life...one for the better and one for the worse. Imogens character really started to grow on me after the first 5 chapters and by the end I loved her and I was literally rooting for her till the end. The internet commentary of the board was fun and engaging and I loved how Imogen could be her true-self over the internet to strangers versus being the perfectly false robot to her friends and family.
All in all this the characters in this book were fully developed and the virtual commentary between some of the internet characters were hilarious! I also loved the flow of this book and how the author pulls you into the story literally! While reading I felt guilty whenever Imogen was sneaking in the chat room and spending hours on end at the keyboard. Me@You also has a great plot that I think everyone can learn from young or older which is how the world wide web can bring the best out of people and the worst in some. Also never trust anyone fully from the internet which is clearly the whole moral of this story. Besides that it is also a story of finding and accepting ones self and learning from your mistakes while you plow through this journey called life.
November 24, 2011
"me@you.com" tells the story of 18 year old Imogen "Immy" Summers and how she finds herself attracted to another girl called Fickle on a website that she frequents.
This book just blew me away! It's a light, quick read - a very good "pick up and put down and pick up again" book and I read it in just three days, but that's not to say it's lightweight. Far from it!
Immy is a lovely character and I really empathised with her situation. She's just a normal college kid with a cool boyfriend and some neat friends, but when she starts talking to "Fickle" on MSN one night, she finds herself questioning everything around her. Fickle zones in on Immy very fast, and has a hold over her pretty much straight away, and KE Payne illustrates this point very well, I think. Yeah, their relationship moves quickly, but don't all internet relationships? The intimacy of their conversations late into the night are very well told, and the reader feels totally swept along with Immy's confusion over her sexuality, and her dilemma over what to do. I really felt for Immy, and I think what KE Payne has done which is extraordinary, is that she doesn't ever make the reader question why Immy does what she does. It's clear that she's confused, and that she's only with her boyfriend because she thinks it's the "right" thing to do, even though she's desperately unhappy with him.
Other reviews on here have commented on the British slang in the book. OK, I'm English so I absolutely get the language in the book. I've read KE Payne's first book (the hilarious "365 Days") and found the language to be exactly the same. It's called a British sense of humour. But be warned! Anyone who's read "365 Days" and is expecting "me@you.com" to be as funny - it's not. But that's a good thing, I think.
My favourite character by far was Joey because she's so sweet and lovely to Immy from the off. I hated Fickle from the start, but then I guess I was meant to, wasn't I? I loved that Immy had two close friends away from the internet as well, because it gave everything a good sense of balance.
In short, "me@you.com" is a beautifully-written journey of one girl's emergence from an unhappy, unfulfilled, confused teen to a confident and happy girl. Immy's confusion is extremely well-written, and I could totally see why she'd get sucked into Fickle's web...
Yes, everything happens at break-neck speed, but isn't that what love's like in real life too? Loved this book. It gets a resounding 5/5 from me.
This book just blew me away! It's a light, quick read - a very good "pick up and put down and pick up again" book and I read it in just three days, but that's not to say it's lightweight. Far from it!
Immy is a lovely character and I really empathised with her situation. She's just a normal college kid with a cool boyfriend and some neat friends, but when she starts talking to "Fickle" on MSN one night, she finds herself questioning everything around her. Fickle zones in on Immy very fast, and has a hold over her pretty much straight away, and KE Payne illustrates this point very well, I think. Yeah, their relationship moves quickly, but don't all internet relationships? The intimacy of their conversations late into the night are very well told, and the reader feels totally swept along with Immy's confusion over her sexuality, and her dilemma over what to do. I really felt for Immy, and I think what KE Payne has done which is extraordinary, is that she doesn't ever make the reader question why Immy does what she does. It's clear that she's confused, and that she's only with her boyfriend because she thinks it's the "right" thing to do, even though she's desperately unhappy with him.
Other reviews on here have commented on the British slang in the book. OK, I'm English so I absolutely get the language in the book. I've read KE Payne's first book (the hilarious "365 Days") and found the language to be exactly the same. It's called a British sense of humour. But be warned! Anyone who's read "365 Days" and is expecting "me@you.com" to be as funny - it's not. But that's a good thing, I think.
My favourite character by far was Joey because she's so sweet and lovely to Immy from the off. I hated Fickle from the start, but then I guess I was meant to, wasn't I? I loved that Immy had two close friends away from the internet as well, because it gave everything a good sense of balance.
In short, "me@you.com" is a beautifully-written journey of one girl's emergence from an unhappy, unfulfilled, confused teen to a confident and happy girl. Immy's confusion is extremely well-written, and I could totally see why she'd get sucked into Fickle's web...
Yes, everything happens at break-neck speed, but isn't that what love's like in real life too? Loved this book. It gets a resounding 5/5 from me.
January 17, 2012
http://librarytalker.blogspot.com/201...
Imogen Summers has a great boyfriend; everyone thinks so... except Imogen herself. Recently, Immy has been thinking that there might be more than just hanging out, the occasional kissing, and the nightly walk home.
Isn't dating supposed to be exciting?
Things change when Immy finds an online site about her favorite TV show, which includes two lesbian characters as the leads. In the chat room and forums, Immy finally feels free to say what she wants and she finally feels like maybe she's not completely different than all the other people around her.
When Imogen meets a girl in the forum named Fickle, she also feels that she may finally get what everyone else is talking about when they use the word "love".
Could it be that Immy isn't the straight girl she always thought she was? Could it be that her thoughts have never been with the guys she's dated because she's never really wanted to date them?
Final thoughts: This was an OK book about coming out, both herself and to others (though never to her family, which is disappointing). However, it was a little stilted and Immy's self-discovery was awkward. There is definitely a struggle for those who are dealing with this issue, but Immy's emotions seemed strangely controlled most of the time and then extremely wild at odd times. This book is a good conversation starter for those who are trying to figure themselves out, but there are other, better books out there for LGBTQ kids. My other struggle is that this is set in England, so the English is a little different. It didn't completely detract from the book, but having to translate slang like Soz (sorry... which is used on almost every page) and words like trainer (shoes) and jumper (sweater), got a little distracting.
Imogen Summers has a great boyfriend; everyone thinks so... except Imogen herself. Recently, Immy has been thinking that there might be more than just hanging out, the occasional kissing, and the nightly walk home.
Isn't dating supposed to be exciting?
Things change when Immy finds an online site about her favorite TV show, which includes two lesbian characters as the leads. In the chat room and forums, Immy finally feels free to say what she wants and she finally feels like maybe she's not completely different than all the other people around her.
When Imogen meets a girl in the forum named Fickle, she also feels that she may finally get what everyone else is talking about when they use the word "love".
Could it be that Immy isn't the straight girl she always thought she was? Could it be that her thoughts have never been with the guys she's dated because she's never really wanted to date them?
Final thoughts: This was an OK book about coming out, both herself and to others (though never to her family, which is disappointing). However, it was a little stilted and Immy's self-discovery was awkward. There is definitely a struggle for those who are dealing with this issue, but Immy's emotions seemed strangely controlled most of the time and then extremely wild at odd times. This book is a good conversation starter for those who are trying to figure themselves out, but there are other, better books out there for LGBTQ kids. My other struggle is that this is set in England, so the English is a little different. It didn't completely detract from the book, but having to translate slang like Soz (sorry... which is used on almost every page) and words like trainer (shoes) and jumper (sweater), got a little distracting.
November 12, 2011
This lingers between a 3 and a 3.5.
Me@you.com was a quick read and enjoyable. I liked Immy, though at times her willingness to be pushed around and tendency of not making solid decisions without someone forcing and prodding her into it got frustrating. But those were also traits that made her realistic, I think.
Joey was easily my favorite character in the book, so I was pretty excited toward the end at the role she got to play. Overall, the entire situation felt very, very true to things I used to witness in the big wide world of chatrooms when I was this age.
The things I didn't like? I'm having a hard time pin-pointing them. Sometimes the dialogue between Immy and Fickle felt so cheesy. And, yes, the relationship happened rather quickly. It's something I would expect out of a 14 or 15-year-old, but given Immy's age, I was sort of hoping for a little more maturity out of her.
No twists or surprising events really take place. Everything that happened, I saw coming. Then again, I didn't really feel like there were supposed to be twists. The signs with Fickle are all there (even down to her username) from the very beginning.
One great thing about this book is that all of Immy's friends play a part in her life. Her two school mates, Twiggy online, and, of course, Joey. I liked that she has this different relationship with each of them, different levels of comfort, just as anyone does within their circle of friends.
Overall, Me@you.com was a fun, light read, and a great addition to the YA LGBT category.
Me@you.com was a quick read and enjoyable. I liked Immy, though at times her willingness to be pushed around and tendency of not making solid decisions without someone forcing and prodding her into it got frustrating. But those were also traits that made her realistic, I think.
Joey was easily my favorite character in the book, so I was pretty excited toward the end at the role she got to play. Overall, the entire situation felt very, very true to things I used to witness in the big wide world of chatrooms when I was this age.
The things I didn't like? I'm having a hard time pin-pointing them. Sometimes the dialogue between Immy and Fickle felt so cheesy. And, yes, the relationship happened rather quickly. It's something I would expect out of a 14 or 15-year-old, but given Immy's age, I was sort of hoping for a little more maturity out of her.
No twists or surprising events really take place. Everything that happened, I saw coming. Then again, I didn't really feel like there were supposed to be twists. The signs with Fickle are all there (even down to her username) from the very beginning.
One great thing about this book is that all of Immy's friends play a part in her life. Her two school mates, Twiggy online, and, of course, Joey. I liked that she has this different relationship with each of them, different levels of comfort, just as anyone does within their circle of friends.
Overall, Me@you.com was a fun, light read, and a great addition to the YA LGBT category.
December 12, 2011
As a straight YA librarian, I really liked this book. I think any teen could read this to understand how difficult this kind of confusion can be. I felt very fortunate while reading it because when I was a teen, I only had one kind of agony to go through when it came to falling for someone. Add in the social stigma of that person not being the gender you are supposed to be falling for, and wow. That's tough.
I found the veiled advice- don't tell your parents or your ex-boyfriend- to be troubling but realistic. Twiggy's reaction was realistic as well. I'm not sure that Beth and Emily's reactions were quite realistic enough, though. I think that in some respects, Payne was trying to ease some of the fears kids in this situation have, which is sweet. However, what happens if their friends aren't as accepting as Immy's? I think she could have prepped girls for that reality a little more. Perhaps one friend would be accepting and the other, not so much? I guess I just worry that teenagers aren't likely to be accepting of differences this big, and I would hate for girls to expect everyone to be after reading this one book. I did like that everything is so wrapped up and happy in the end, and Immy grows as a person and into herself by the end, which is incredibly refreshing.
As I said before, this would be a good one for anyone struggling with this kind of confusion, but also for anyone with a friend struggling with this kind of confusion. Teens should leave their comfort zone from time to time to accept and understand others.
I found the veiled advice- don't tell your parents or your ex-boyfriend- to be troubling but realistic. Twiggy's reaction was realistic as well. I'm not sure that Beth and Emily's reactions were quite realistic enough, though. I think that in some respects, Payne was trying to ease some of the fears kids in this situation have, which is sweet. However, what happens if their friends aren't as accepting as Immy's? I think she could have prepped girls for that reality a little more. Perhaps one friend would be accepting and the other, not so much? I guess I just worry that teenagers aren't likely to be accepting of differences this big, and I would hate for girls to expect everyone to be after reading this one book. I did like that everything is so wrapped up and happy in the end, and Immy grows as a person and into herself by the end, which is incredibly refreshing.
As I said before, this would be a good one for anyone struggling with this kind of confusion, but also for anyone with a friend struggling with this kind of confusion. Teens should leave their comfort zone from time to time to accept and understand others.
September 25, 2013
me@you.com This book had a lot of ups and downs, but overall I liked the story. I think it’s a great story for any confused or curious teen to read.
The writing did leave a lot to be desired. It really frustrates me when authors choose to turn all of their teen characters into some fake caricature based on silly stereotypes. Teens do not all text like complete idiots (“can’t w8 2 c u” etc), especially now that there is this thing in the world called a full qwerty keypad on most phones. It ends up leaving a bad taste in my mouth, and it makes me think the author is trying too hard to get into teen space to write her story.
A lot of the dialogue felt fake and forced, especially between Immy and Fickle. But the overall theme of the story is certainly one I can get behind. I am no stranger to falling in love over the internet, nor of having my heart broken in the very same manner. My heart was with Imogen when she was trying to figure out what to do with her boyfriend and this new online friend, and I felt just as betrayed as she did when she found out some not so nice things about her new friend.
In the end, I was happy with the way things turned out – though I’m not at all certain it’s a realistic portrayal of this type of situation. But then again… don’t we all want the fairy tale ending?
The writing did leave a lot to be desired. It really frustrates me when authors choose to turn all of their teen characters into some fake caricature based on silly stereotypes. Teens do not all text like complete idiots (“can’t w8 2 c u” etc), especially now that there is this thing in the world called a full qwerty keypad on most phones. It ends up leaving a bad taste in my mouth, and it makes me think the author is trying too hard to get into teen space to write her story.
A lot of the dialogue felt fake and forced, especially between Immy and Fickle. But the overall theme of the story is certainly one I can get behind. I am no stranger to falling in love over the internet, nor of having my heart broken in the very same manner. My heart was with Imogen when she was trying to figure out what to do with her boyfriend and this new online friend, and I felt just as betrayed as she did when she found out some not so nice things about her new friend.
In the end, I was happy with the way things turned out – though I’m not at all certain it’s a realistic portrayal of this type of situation. But then again… don’t we all want the fairy tale ending?
January 13, 2012
Me@You Book review
me@you.com" tells the story of 18 year old Imogen "Immy" Summers and how she finds herself attracted Fickle on a website about a show she loves.
Although I don’t advocate using the internet to find girl/guys/or soul mates in boards and not proper websites a lot of people are doing it and that’s what Immy does. She falls head over heels for Fickle; the cant sleep, thinking about you all day kind of Fall and I could totally emphasise with that, as I'm sure a lot of other people could.
Fickle has an immediate hold over Immy and she finds questioning herself and her relationship with her boyfriend of 6weeks after all Fickle’s a girl and she likes boys....right? Dating a person of the opposite sex is “the right thing” to do...right?
Their relationship develops quickly and she makes a lot of mistakes and is pretty much confused, and gets hurt. But when she finally finds herself its extraordinary a beautiful coming out story that clearly portrays the life of a confused 18 year old struggling with technology, love and School work as well as her family, friends and boyfriend. What's a girl to do when everything she though she knew is flipped upside down.
I haven’t read any of KE Payne’s other work, but I will be.
me@you.com" tells the story of 18 year old Imogen "Immy" Summers and how she finds herself attracted Fickle on a website about a show she loves.
Although I don’t advocate using the internet to find girl/guys/or soul mates in boards and not proper websites a lot of people are doing it and that’s what Immy does. She falls head over heels for Fickle; the cant sleep, thinking about you all day kind of Fall and I could totally emphasise with that, as I'm sure a lot of other people could.
Fickle has an immediate hold over Immy and she finds questioning herself and her relationship with her boyfriend of 6weeks after all Fickle’s a girl and she likes boys....right? Dating a person of the opposite sex is “the right thing” to do...right?
Their relationship develops quickly and she makes a lot of mistakes and is pretty much confused, and gets hurt. But when she finally finds herself its extraordinary a beautiful coming out story that clearly portrays the life of a confused 18 year old struggling with technology, love and School work as well as her family, friends and boyfriend. What's a girl to do when everything she though she knew is flipped upside down.
I haven’t read any of KE Payne’s other work, but I will be.
March 24, 2012
I've red *me@you.com* and would like to tell how truly GOOD it is!
It is very well written, it's very original (I haven't read or seen before a novel written in the way KE Payne have done - namely, she used the MSN chatting dialogues as the red thread throughout the novel, I do find this style of writing brave and brilliantly-original.
The plot line is deep (awakes those feelings that are so very well hidden within) at times even dark, but what I find so comforting is that KE Payne did not leave the reader in that painful *darkness*,instead, in a very mastery way, she takes the reader out to the light...it's almost feels that she holds your hand and in a reassuring way tells you: "It's OK, you are not alone, and if it helps I can walk you to the daylight again!" And that is a brilliance of of the telling a story...not every writer offers you so much warms and compassion.
Please READ this novel, I dare to promise, that it will enrich your emotional intelligence, and will help you to get in touch with your true self - it did help me, and for that I'm saying a heartfelt *Thank you* for simply outstanding *me@you.com*!
It is very well written, it's very original (I haven't read or seen before a novel written in the way KE Payne have done - namely, she used the MSN chatting dialogues as the red thread throughout the novel, I do find this style of writing brave and brilliantly-original.
The plot line is deep (awakes those feelings that are so very well hidden within) at times even dark, but what I find so comforting is that KE Payne did not leave the reader in that painful *darkness*,instead, in a very mastery way, she takes the reader out to the light...it's almost feels that she holds your hand and in a reassuring way tells you: "It's OK, you are not alone, and if it helps I can walk you to the daylight again!" And that is a brilliance of of the telling a story...not every writer offers you so much warms and compassion.
Please READ this novel, I dare to promise, that it will enrich your emotional intelligence, and will help you to get in touch with your true self - it did help me, and for that I'm saying a heartfelt *Thank you* for simply outstanding *me@you.com*!
November 15, 2014
It started interesting but then everything else happened way too fast. The relationships (if you can call them that) felt rushed. They weren't developed enough for me to actually buy them. I mean they met over the internet for Pete's sake! It takes longer to trust people there and even longer to actually fall in love. Lots of conversations and the likes.. but nope.. there's not even a meaningful conversation between Barnaby and Fickle or maybe there is but then I wasn't paying attention because their usual convos were giving me toothaches. They exchanged pictures then swooshhhhh.. instalove for Barnaby at least. Yeah, I'm not convinced.
Then there's Emily and Beth and Joey. They're likeable. I was looking forward to Freddie. I read the synopsis. There's no Freddie. I felt cheated, LOL. I'm not gonna elaborate the second flame of lil Barnaby so as to avoid giving spoilers but nope, not gonna buy that either. The ending gave me cavities.
Then there's Emily and Beth and Joey. They're likeable. I was looking forward to Freddie. I read the synopsis. There's no Freddie. I felt cheated, LOL. I'm not gonna elaborate the second flame of lil Barnaby so as to avoid giving spoilers but nope, not gonna buy that either. The ending gave me cavities.
November 30, 2011
Thanks to Netgalley.com, Bold Strokes Books, and KE Payne. I had the honor of reading me&you.com by KE Payne. Me&you.com is a a modern YA story about a college student named Immy. Immy has it all- great friends, a boyfriend everyone wants..but something just doesnt seem right. While chatting in a online forum, Immy discovers what was missing.
Me&you.com is a clean story about dealing with the feelings of being sexually confused. It is a honest and interesting look at opening your mind and heart to another person. That both men and woman can be heartbreakers..and that true love just might be right in front of your nose.
I just wanted to point out that I am straight, but I enjoyed this book. I recommend this to any openminded young person. The slang can be a bit difficult for American readers, but after awhile I found it cute.
I read this in one day, its a quick light read
http://memoriesovertakingme.blogspot....
Me&you.com is a clean story about dealing with the feelings of being sexually confused. It is a honest and interesting look at opening your mind and heart to another person. That both men and woman can be heartbreakers..and that true love just might be right in front of your nose.
I just wanted to point out that I am straight, but I enjoyed this book. I recommend this to any openminded young person. The slang can be a bit difficult for American readers, but after awhile I found it cute.
I read this in one day, its a quick light read
http://memoriesovertakingme.blogspot....
January 30, 2012
Me@you.com was very much an atypical typical book about the joys and dangers of the internet. Typical because no twist or turn is particularly unexpected. Atypical because you rarely encounter a clear female protagonist whose teenage desires for love and a clear understanding of herself don't make you want to gouge your eyes out. Even though this was the first book I've read coming straight from the UK (meaning there hadn't been any changes in the text or dialogue for US understanding), the text never tripped me up and it was a very easy read.
And don't worry, no one turns out to be a vampire. At least not a bloodsucking one.
And don't worry, no one turns out to be a vampire. At least not a bloodsucking one.
December 18, 2011
i was a little underwhelmed with the main character. i liked the story and the setting as well as the bff characters they were very supportive. immy comes across just a bit whiney and a bit controling. i was very un-impressed when she handed her virginity over to her boyfriend just because...well, i'm really not sure why. i'm all for getting your groove on, but this was odd. she does end up with the right girl end the end, redeeming herself:) i'd recommend to teens and for general purchase.
January 7, 2013
Me@you.com is a very sweet, very believable and touching novel that anyone (teen or adult) dealing with falling in love and self-discovery will find a home in. I was a little iffy at first about the whole thing pretty much taking place online, but it worked fabulously! Hope to read more by this author! :)
August 30, 2016
It was a terrible book and I just fast forwarded through it because I just couldn't read all of it - lets just say the ending is also very predictable. I read other books from this author and they were great but this one just didn't do it for me!
January 13, 2024
Watch my review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFJOb...
March 4, 2012
Really good book, really sweet, and I really liked reading it! Hated the part where it was tough for Immy, because of the evil girl! Not the actual book, but what Immy goes through! Yep.
February 28, 2012
See my review here: http://reviews.c-spot.net/archives/3870
June 16, 2014
I enjoyed very much! Easy to read, and definitely a good description of the on/off rides of young love.
November 14, 2014
Interesting story, especially appealing to those who–like me–spend too much time in internet.
October 26, 2015
2012 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
March 15, 2012
brit girl discovering her sexuality. lots of IM format makes for interesting story.
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