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The Breakaway #1
The Breakaway
When Naomi Jensen is kidnapped, it takes her parents two days to realize she's missing. Escape isn't high on her list of priorities when all she has to return to is an abusive boyfriend and parents who never paid much attention to her. For the first time in her life she's part of a family-even if it is a family of criminals. But she's still a captive. In a desperate attempt to regain some control in her life, Naomi embarks on a dangerous plan to make one of her kidnappers think she's falling in love with him. The plan works too well, and when faced with the chance to escape, Naomi isn't sure she wants to take it.
303 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2012
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6168 people want to read
About the author
Michelle D. Argyle
20 books418 followersMichelle lives and writes in Utah, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. Michelle mainly writes contemporary fiction, but occasionally branches into other genres.
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May 4, 2012
Stockholm Syndrome: "[noun, Psychiatry] an emotional attachment to a captor formed by a hostage as a result of continuous stress, dependence, and a need to cooperate for survival." -Dictionary.com
This is not my first foray into this psychiatric syndrome and I find it fascinating to be honest. Developing feelings, or yet, falling in love with your abductor? Sounds impossible, right? Or at least something you can't ever imagine allowing yourself to do in their situation. You're too smart, too strong, you would have too much awareness to let yourself become "attached". How ridiculous! This is how I used to think. Until I read my first book on the matter - Held by Edeet Ravel. Since then I am completely convinced that this could happen to anyone, easily. However, if this was my first book on Stockholm Syndrome, I'm not certain I would have had the same understanding.
"These feelings are generally considered irrational in light of the danger or risk endured by the victims. […] strong emotional ties that develop between two persons where one person intermittently harasses, beats, threatens, abuses, or intimidates the other" -Wikipedia
The circumstance in The Breakaway is not your ordinary kidnapping. Is there constant danger, threats, abuse? No. Naomi basically becomes one of them; living as a family with no feelings of true danger or stress. Sure, she is reliant on them and even a bit numb about the situation, but after the first little while, she lives a pretty relaxed, comfortable life. Even mentally she doesn't seem to be incredibly distraught. Since her parents never cared for her, and her boyfriend beat her, she's the happiest she's been really. When I compare this to Held, where the girl was kept in an empty warehouse with her captor bringing her food when he could, it didn't have the same intense feel I was expecting, where there's a perpetual daily dependence towards the abductor. So this is all to say that yes, we've got a case of Stockholm Syndrome at its core, but I didn't feel it truly did it justice. It simply felt as if a real relationship was growing in an atypical situation, instead of manifesting from an irrational dependency.
There is definitely some emotional dilemma happening inside Naomi. Did she really love her boyfriend? Does she miss him? Why don't her parents care? It's not your ordinary abduction, but it's also not your usual teenage life. With no friends or family who care about her, being stuck in this house with this seemingly happy family who seem to genuinely like her doesn't seem so bad at all. I did feel it went by rather quickly; since the book spans a whole year, we can skip weeks/months between chapters. Consequently, we don't get incredibly deep inside her internal predicaments, but it's definitely an intriguing situation that raises some questions. After a while, I didn't even want her to try to escape. I, myself, got to really adore a few of her abductors. In this sense, Stockholm Syndrome was evidenced in her wanting to stay with this new family. As a longing for what she never had.
To flesh out these characters, there's a lot of mystery regarding their lives, moreover, what led to this; what brought on Naomi's kidnapping and what are their intentions. There's a lot of background story that we learn about these people that helps us understand how this came about. These people are criminals, but every one has their reasons. The ending is bittersweet and satisfactory for a realistic conclusion to such a story. In the end, I can say that I quite enjoyed this book overall. It was much calmer than I expected, but I would easily recommend it for those who have a liking for psychological contemporaries.
--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
This is not my first foray into this psychiatric syndrome and I find it fascinating to be honest. Developing feelings, or yet, falling in love with your abductor? Sounds impossible, right? Or at least something you can't ever imagine allowing yourself to do in their situation. You're too smart, too strong, you would have too much awareness to let yourself become "attached". How ridiculous! This is how I used to think. Until I read my first book on the matter - Held by Edeet Ravel. Since then I am completely convinced that this could happen to anyone, easily. However, if this was my first book on Stockholm Syndrome, I'm not certain I would have had the same understanding.
"These feelings are generally considered irrational in light of the danger or risk endured by the victims. […] strong emotional ties that develop between two persons where one person intermittently harasses, beats, threatens, abuses, or intimidates the other" -Wikipedia
The circumstance in The Breakaway is not your ordinary kidnapping. Is there constant danger, threats, abuse? No. Naomi basically becomes one of them; living as a family with no feelings of true danger or stress. Sure, she is reliant on them and even a bit numb about the situation, but after the first little while, she lives a pretty relaxed, comfortable life. Even mentally she doesn't seem to be incredibly distraught. Since her parents never cared for her, and her boyfriend beat her, she's the happiest she's been really. When I compare this to Held, where the girl was kept in an empty warehouse with her captor bringing her food when he could, it didn't have the same intense feel I was expecting, where there's a perpetual daily dependence towards the abductor. So this is all to say that yes, we've got a case of Stockholm Syndrome at its core, but I didn't feel it truly did it justice. It simply felt as if a real relationship was growing in an atypical situation, instead of manifesting from an irrational dependency.
There is definitely some emotional dilemma happening inside Naomi. Did she really love her boyfriend? Does she miss him? Why don't her parents care? It's not your ordinary abduction, but it's also not your usual teenage life. With no friends or family who care about her, being stuck in this house with this seemingly happy family who seem to genuinely like her doesn't seem so bad at all. I did feel it went by rather quickly; since the book spans a whole year, we can skip weeks/months between chapters. Consequently, we don't get incredibly deep inside her internal predicaments, but it's definitely an intriguing situation that raises some questions. After a while, I didn't even want her to try to escape. I, myself, got to really adore a few of her abductors. In this sense, Stockholm Syndrome was evidenced in her wanting to stay with this new family. As a longing for what she never had.
To flesh out these characters, there's a lot of mystery regarding their lives, moreover, what led to this; what brought on Naomi's kidnapping and what are their intentions. There's a lot of background story that we learn about these people that helps us understand how this came about. These people are criminals, but every one has their reasons. The ending is bittersweet and satisfactory for a realistic conclusion to such a story. In the end, I can say that I quite enjoyed this book overall. It was much calmer than I expected, but I would easily recommend it for those who have a liking for psychological contemporaries.
--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
August 19, 2012
“Why did you leave me? Why did you run? Why can't we stay together”? Her mind reeled with sudden panic. “I'll go with you. Whatever we have to do, I'll do it.”
Ah The Breakaway, where do I even begin with this book? I had my eyes on it for MONTHS before finally caving in and buying the damn book, stupid of me to buy this book and start reading it late at night…I was up till 5 in the morning finishing The Breakaway cause I could not find a good stopping point, this book completely captured me. Captured me..get it?? Lame joke I know (._.)
So The Breakaway is about Naomi Jensen, to outsiders it may look like she has the perfect life, hell maybe she even convinced herself for awhile she had a great life, but with a boyfriend that says he loves her, then hits her, and parents that never give her the time of day, maybe Namoi's life isn't so great after all. One night after being hit once again Naomi needs some space from her boyfriend Brad, she goes for a walk. Naomi didn't know on this very walk she would be kidnapped by a group of criminals, little did she know that she was also going to fall in love with one of them..
This book was delightfully wonderful, in a very twisted weird way that I don't really understand yet. I don't know what it is about books that have main characters going through Stockholm syndrome in them, but I love it. I love it so much, and for some reason I always find myself loving the "bad" guy that kidnaps the girl. Actually let me rephrase that, I love the "bad" guy if they are actually caring and non-forceful to their hostage (such as in this book, and Stolen by Lucy Christopher which is a book beyond amazing and you should read it). I don't know what it is about these crazy obsessive guys, but I like them! Actually I do know what it is that makes me like them, it's because they are interesting to read, simple as that, crazy people are unpredictable and I like that in the books I read!
Alright now lets talk about the man in question, JESSE! He is our hostages "love"interest if you may. My first impression of him was that he was creepy, very creepy, this guy gave me the chills! I was also wondering the first few times I encountered him while reading if he didn't have a mental illness, but don't worry! He eventually stops being creepy and he becomes, very well, likable! I found myself enjoying him towards the end of the book, and the romance in The Breakaway was an amazing one between the Naomi and Jesse.
Overall I actually found myself liking most of the characters; each character was very different than the next. Each character also had their own secrets, which of course made this even more of a thrilling ride. In all this was just an amazing read, I was originally going to give this book 4 stars because I didn't like how it ended, BUT then I found out it is actually going to have a sequel (which I believe is going to be brilliant!) so I gave this 5 stars since the story did not end there.
Sidenote: This book does NOT have any sexual abuse, although it does have physical abuse such as the main character getting hit a few times and pushed around.
Ah The Breakaway, where do I even begin with this book? I had my eyes on it for MONTHS before finally caving in and buying the damn book, stupid of me to buy this book and start reading it late at night…I was up till 5 in the morning finishing The Breakaway cause I could not find a good stopping point, this book completely captured me. Captured me..get it?? Lame joke I know (._.)
So The Breakaway is about Naomi Jensen, to outsiders it may look like she has the perfect life, hell maybe she even convinced herself for awhile she had a great life, but with a boyfriend that says he loves her, then hits her, and parents that never give her the time of day, maybe Namoi's life isn't so great after all. One night after being hit once again Naomi needs some space from her boyfriend Brad, she goes for a walk. Naomi didn't know on this very walk she would be kidnapped by a group of criminals, little did she know that she was also going to fall in love with one of them..
This book was delightfully wonderful, in a very twisted weird way that I don't really understand yet. I don't know what it is about books that have main characters going through Stockholm syndrome in them, but I love it. I love it so much, and for some reason I always find myself loving the "bad" guy that kidnaps the girl. Actually let me rephrase that, I love the "bad" guy if they are actually caring and non-forceful to their hostage (such as in this book, and Stolen by Lucy Christopher which is a book beyond amazing and you should read it). I don't know what it is about these crazy obsessive guys, but I like them! Actually I do know what it is that makes me like them, it's because they are interesting to read, simple as that, crazy people are unpredictable and I like that in the books I read!
Alright now lets talk about the man in question, JESSE! He is our hostages "love"interest if you may. My first impression of him was that he was creepy, very creepy, this guy gave me the chills! I was also wondering the first few times I encountered him while reading if he didn't have a mental illness, but don't worry! He eventually stops being creepy and he becomes, very well, likable! I found myself enjoying him towards the end of the book, and the romance in The Breakaway was an amazing one between the Naomi and Jesse.
Overall I actually found myself liking most of the characters; each character was very different than the next. Each character also had their own secrets, which of course made this even more of a thrilling ride. In all this was just an amazing read, I was originally going to give this book 4 stars because I didn't like how it ended, BUT then I found out it is actually going to have a sequel (which I believe is going to be brilliant!) so I gave this 5 stars since the story did not end there.
Sidenote: This book does NOT have any sexual abuse, although it does have physical abuse such as the main character getting hit a few times and pushed around.
May 16, 2013
This is a different kind of dark love story
Yes Kidnapping too..
Naomi..
The girl who has everything but has nothing.
She has rich parents, has anything and everything she's ever wanted.
A doooosh bag boyfriend Brad who is controlling and abusive.
Parents who don't give her the time of day because they too busy working. It takes them two days to realise she's missing.
Then the best thing ever happens to her..
She gets kidnapped. Now- these people were not bad. They trulely loved her and for the first time in Naomi's life she feels like she belongs. They fill the void in her life.
She falls in love with one of them- Jesse.
Then it gets deep and becomes a psychosocial book that plays with your mind.
Is she supposed to feel this way?
Is it okay to want her never to be found?
Do I feel sorry for her family who suddenly now realise that they neglected her?
Naomi is weak, she doesn't make her own decisions, fight for her freedom because deep down she wants to be wanted.
The ending is a cliffy but not to worry because the sequal is out :D
I think I'm insane because I was secretly wishing that she doesn't leave them.
Anyway if u want a different kind of story this is the book to read.
May 23, 2012
2.5 stars. I rounded up for an ending which was tolerable. This book had the potential to go south quickly but the last couple of chapters were tackled with a fair amount of respect for the subject matter.
HIERARCHY OF BIZARRE TOPICS
Obviously there are more, but these happen to be the few bizarre subjects which seem to have made their way onto my reading radar over the past year.
For whatever reason, number 2 seems to be the subject that has failed the most in books when the author is trying to portray an interesting, yet plausible story. There are only a scant few books which have come close to finding the right balance between creepy and convincing. I wouldn't go so far as to say that The Breakaway completely succeeded, but at least I managed to get through the read without wishing I had my time back.
At least this time, I was disturbed for a few of the right reasons. This book made me uncomfortable. I didn't like the budding feelings of attraction that the female lead started to have for the male lead who was "forced" upon us. In fact, I never saw this person as attractive. Not once did I find myself thinking the guy was nice or dreamy or swoon-worthy, even though I was under the impression that maybe this might have been the direction that the readers were supposed to follow. In a way, I'm fine with never attaching to Jesse. I was still able to understand why Naomi did, which was good enough.
Did it happen too fast in this book? Yes. And No. Given the unusual circumstances of Naomi's home life, I'm going to excuse some of the feeble attempts to push Naomi and Jesse into each other's emotional space in a manner that didn't feel quite fleshed out. If I was Naomi, I wouldn't have been in such a hurry to go home either. There wasn't exactly anything for her to go back to.
What didn't work for me :
The backstory of Brad's relationship with Naomi. I got tired of these flashbacks. I didn't have any sympathy for our lead as she was discovering why she allowed herself into an abusive relationship. I didn't appreciate how she used it as justification of why she was okay with staying captive. I'd rather have come to that conclusion myself as a reader. Often, we know more about why the character is acting the way that they are more than the character actually does. I would have preferred to have kept it that way. Her self-reflection felt like she was going through her own personal inner checklist.
The side characters. Were we supposed to like Eric or not? Was Evie really good or bad? I honestly didn't care to know one way or the other.
What did work for me :
Nothing stood out as being overly ridiculous. Even when my thoughts turned sarcastic over a few things seeming too scripted, I wasn't irritated. The story was a bit juvenile, but at least it stuck to a semi-textbook version of Stockholm Syndrome. Even when Naomi started to find herself sucked into the idea of possibly being happy by staying in her situation, she still continued to question her changing thought process.
The ending was handled the right way. Much like the taboo book Screaming in the Silence, there was at least some accountability for the main character's wrongdoing. I need this in my books, especially if the kidnapping is going to turn into a situation with any sort of romantic undertones to it.
So what's the verdict?
The book was okay. It was entertaining enough, although nothing special. I'd recommend this mainly for people who've read the subject matter before and find Stockholm Syndrome interesting. Otherwise, I'd say it's not a big deal if you give this one a pass.
HIERARCHY OF BIZARRE TOPICS
1. Teacher/Student Relationships
2. Kidnapping
3. Polygamy
4. Incest
Obviously there are more, but these happen to be the few bizarre subjects which seem to have made their way onto my reading radar over the past year.
For whatever reason, number 2 seems to be the subject that has failed the most in books when the author is trying to portray an interesting, yet plausible story. There are only a scant few books which have come close to finding the right balance between creepy and convincing. I wouldn't go so far as to say that The Breakaway completely succeeded, but at least I managed to get through the read without wishing I had my time back.
At least this time, I was disturbed for a few of the right reasons. This book made me uncomfortable. I didn't like the budding feelings of attraction that the female lead started to have for the male lead who was "forced" upon us. In fact, I never saw this person as attractive. Not once did I find myself thinking the guy was nice or dreamy or swoon-worthy, even though I was under the impression that maybe this might have been the direction that the readers were supposed to follow. In a way, I'm fine with never attaching to Jesse. I was still able to understand why Naomi did, which was good enough.
Did it happen too fast in this book? Yes. And No. Given the unusual circumstances of Naomi's home life, I'm going to excuse some of the feeble attempts to push Naomi and Jesse into each other's emotional space in a manner that didn't feel quite fleshed out. If I was Naomi, I wouldn't have been in such a hurry to go home either. There wasn't exactly anything for her to go back to.
What didn't work for me :
The backstory of Brad's relationship with Naomi. I got tired of these flashbacks. I didn't have any sympathy for our lead as she was discovering why she allowed herself into an abusive relationship. I didn't appreciate how she used it as justification of why she was okay with staying captive. I'd rather have come to that conclusion myself as a reader. Often, we know more about why the character is acting the way that they are more than the character actually does. I would have preferred to have kept it that way. Her self-reflection felt like she was going through her own personal inner checklist.
The side characters. Were we supposed to like Eric or not? Was Evie really good or bad? I honestly didn't care to know one way or the other.
What did work for me :
Nothing stood out as being overly ridiculous. Even when my thoughts turned sarcastic over a few things seeming too scripted, I wasn't irritated. The story was a bit juvenile, but at least it stuck to a semi-textbook version of Stockholm Syndrome. Even when Naomi started to find herself sucked into the idea of possibly being happy by staying in her situation, she still continued to question her changing thought process.
The ending was handled the right way. Much like the taboo book Screaming in the Silence, there was at least some accountability for the main character's wrongdoing. I need this in my books, especially if the kidnapping is going to turn into a situation with any sort of romantic undertones to it.
So what's the verdict?
The book was okay. It was entertaining enough, although nothing special. I'd recommend this mainly for people who've read the subject matter before and find Stockholm Syndrome interesting. Otherwise, I'd say it's not a big deal if you give this one a pass.
August 17, 2012
I really enjoyed this book but I must say I hated the ending. I don't like reaching the end of a book and just feeling like I was left hanging. This type of book is hard to give a concrete ending...But I am happy because I see that there is a second book!!!!!I cant wait to see what happen between Naomi and Jesse!!!
December 17, 2011
Cross-genre books will one day become the next best thing. And I truly don’t understand why it isn’t condoned by publishers more often. How could it not be? Doesn’t it mean that there will be a broader readership for the book? You’d think so. And logic would say so. And thank goodness Rhelmelda publishing thinks so too. The Breakaway is going to rock the Young Adult and Adult shelves, and it will stay put—even through a 9 Richter earthquake.
As soon as I read the blurb for The Breakaway, I got excited. It’s such an interesting idea to have a victim learn to love their kidnappers and not want to leave. The idea alone means the reader will experience suspense, psychological tension, the internal struggles of the protagonist and the push and pull of their own ambivalent feelings toward not only the kidnappers, but toward the victim’s grieving family as well. This is a recipe for a brilliant novel.
And it is a brilliant novel. The Breakaway is everything I thought it would be, plus 100% more. Naomi, the victim, is portrayed to be weak and vulnerable in theory, hardly trying to escape captivity, but if you dig a little deeper, and read between the lines, you realize how much strength one actually needs to retain so much patience—to wait for the perfect time to bolt. But what makes this scenario even more thrilling, is the fact that, as time goes by, does Naomi really want to bolt? And do we, as readers, want her to? I certainly didn’t.
I found myself falling in love with every single character in this story. Argyle does a seamless job of allowing us to relate to even the worst of characters, which, on the surface are immoral and corrupt, but on the inside are just as helpless and emotionally damaged as Naomi.
Not once is the reader given the opportunity to perceive the world through the kidnappers’ eyes, yet somehow, we feel their pain and want things to end well for them too. To achieve something like this, takes a writer of great skill. And Michelle Davidson Argyle is not only a writer of great skill, she is a writer with a very sharp and compassionate understanding of the human condition many of us fail to appreciate.
I believed every word of The Breakaway. And you will too.
As soon as I read the blurb for The Breakaway, I got excited. It’s such an interesting idea to have a victim learn to love their kidnappers and not want to leave. The idea alone means the reader will experience suspense, psychological tension, the internal struggles of the protagonist and the push and pull of their own ambivalent feelings toward not only the kidnappers, but toward the victim’s grieving family as well. This is a recipe for a brilliant novel.
And it is a brilliant novel. The Breakaway is everything I thought it would be, plus 100% more. Naomi, the victim, is portrayed to be weak and vulnerable in theory, hardly trying to escape captivity, but if you dig a little deeper, and read between the lines, you realize how much strength one actually needs to retain so much patience—to wait for the perfect time to bolt. But what makes this scenario even more thrilling, is the fact that, as time goes by, does Naomi really want to bolt? And do we, as readers, want her to? I certainly didn’t.
I found myself falling in love with every single character in this story. Argyle does a seamless job of allowing us to relate to even the worst of characters, which, on the surface are immoral and corrupt, but on the inside are just as helpless and emotionally damaged as Naomi.
Not once is the reader given the opportunity to perceive the world through the kidnappers’ eyes, yet somehow, we feel their pain and want things to end well for them too. To achieve something like this, takes a writer of great skill. And Michelle Davidson Argyle is not only a writer of great skill, she is a writer with a very sharp and compassionate understanding of the human condition many of us fail to appreciate.
I believed every word of The Breakaway. And you will too.
February 21, 2012
Before I talk about the book, I want to mention that Michelle is my friend. She's been nothing but supportive in the years on the Internet we've known each other, and I am thrilled to read her books!
Okay, five things about THE BREAKAWAY and Michelle...
1) First, it is an intense story about a serious situation. I know this sounds kind of basic, but let's face it. I'm normally all about fantasy and science-fiction. So if I say that THE BREAKAWAY is realistic fiction, that doesn't quite seem to cover it. It's about a kidnapping and the time of captivity.
2) It's a complete page-turner. I mentioned intense in (1) above, and truly, this is the best word to describe it. I did not have any idea what the main character, Naomi, was going to do next. Would she try to escape? Would she fall in love? I couldn't (and didn't) stop reading.
3) It has complete crossover appeal. The main character, Naomi, is a teen for sure. But the main love interest is not. He's older and he's into way more serious dealings than what subject to sign up for at school and who his latest crush should be. He's an adult, and given this, I think adults would enjoy the story equally.
4) Michelle Davidson Argyle is one of the hardest working people I know. She inspires me to keep writing when I see how much she accomplishes. I think she has about two hundred more books in the works.
5) Sheer premise alone is reason enough to read this story. Seeing the struggle of the main character as she weights the pros and cons of her captivity and her less-than-stellar home life provides such a great, gripping read.
In short, I totally recommend this one for (mostly) girls, 9th grade and up, those who are fans of realistic, somewhat darker fiction.
Source of book: Provided by author by request
Okay, five things about THE BREAKAWAY and Michelle...
1) First, it is an intense story about a serious situation. I know this sounds kind of basic, but let's face it. I'm normally all about fantasy and science-fiction. So if I say that THE BREAKAWAY is realistic fiction, that doesn't quite seem to cover it. It's about a kidnapping and the time of captivity.
2) It's a complete page-turner. I mentioned intense in (1) above, and truly, this is the best word to describe it. I did not have any idea what the main character, Naomi, was going to do next. Would she try to escape? Would she fall in love? I couldn't (and didn't) stop reading.
3) It has complete crossover appeal. The main character, Naomi, is a teen for sure. But the main love interest is not. He's older and he's into way more serious dealings than what subject to sign up for at school and who his latest crush should be. He's an adult, and given this, I think adults would enjoy the story equally.
4) Michelle Davidson Argyle is one of the hardest working people I know. She inspires me to keep writing when I see how much she accomplishes. I think she has about two hundred more books in the works.
5) Sheer premise alone is reason enough to read this story. Seeing the struggle of the main character as she weights the pros and cons of her captivity and her less-than-stellar home life provides such a great, gripping read.
In short, I totally recommend this one for (mostly) girls, 9th grade and up, those who are fans of realistic, somewhat darker fiction.
Source of book: Provided by author by request
June 18, 2012
You'd know that the story will always ends dissatisfyingly when it's focused on a kidnap plot.
Don't get me wrong - this book was lovely. I liked it. It was in many ways similar to Stolen: A Letter to my Captor , but this book was less grey and much happier, and thus in other words, less realistic.
What i really hate about such kidnap stories is that the nice guys always happen to be the villians. By nice, I mean kind, caring, thoughtful and good. I know, it's complicated. If that's the definition of evil, Barney must be the nightmare of all little kids. But in this book, the kidnappers, Eric, Evelyn, Steve, and Jesse are exactly that. A bit surreal and silly,though it does make the prospect of being kidnapped really appealing ouch.
The ending of this book is very much different as compared to Stolen, but by no means dissimilar in terms of disappointment. It is not the book's fault, if you ask me - whether the story ends with the villian/hottie getting caught and charged for kidnap or whether the female lead elopes (I can't think of a more appropriate word at the moment) with the guy, both endings are tragic and sad. I mean, there can't possibly be an ending where both the female and male protagonist live together happily ever after without your conscience and your faith in the legal system going after them. It's preposterous by law if they're together, and yet it's preposterous by narration and emotion if they're not. After all, kidnapping is wrong - governments will be ringing alarm bells if anyone gave a glimmer of hope to the (reading) public that anyone could get away with it, no matter how BENEVOLENT and NOBLE his or her intentions are.
Oh, if only kidnapping could be seen as a more exciting method of courtship, or speed dating! If only kidnap was not used as a means for extortion, terrorism, murder.... Once again, I wanted a better ending for the characters in this book, but of course, my rationality knows that none of them could have had it any other way.
Don't get me wrong - this book was lovely. I liked it. It was in many ways similar to Stolen: A Letter to my Captor , but this book was less grey and much happier, and thus in other words, less realistic.
What i really hate about such kidnap stories is that the nice guys always happen to be the villians. By nice, I mean kind, caring, thoughtful and good. I know, it's complicated. If that's the definition of evil, Barney must be the nightmare of all little kids. But in this book, the kidnappers, Eric, Evelyn, Steve, and Jesse are exactly that. A bit surreal and silly,
The ending of this book is very much different as compared to Stolen, but by no means dissimilar in terms of disappointment. It is not the book's fault, if you ask me - whether the story ends with the villian/hottie getting caught and charged for kidnap or whether the female lead elopes (I can't think of a more appropriate word at the moment) with the guy, both endings are tragic and sad. I mean, there can't possibly be an ending where both the female and male protagonist live together happily ever after without your conscience and your faith in the legal system going after them. It's preposterous by law if they're together, and yet it's preposterous by narration and emotion if they're not. After all, kidnapping is wrong - governments will be ringing alarm bells if anyone gave a glimmer of hope to the (reading) public that anyone could get away with it, no matter how BENEVOLENT and NOBLE his or her intentions are.
Oh, if only kidnapping could be seen as a more exciting method of courtship, or speed dating! If only kidnap was not used as a means for extortion, terrorism, murder.... Once again, I wanted a better ending for the characters in this book, but of course, my rationality knows that none of them could have had it any other way.
March 5, 2013
Before I went back to regularly blogging, I read a few stories that dealt with the concept of the main character, female, being held by captures, and later that character would fall, or start to feel feelings, with one capture, that would lead to that psychology based term: Stockholm syndrome. This story in ways, is like other stories I have read, but there of course were different things that just set this one apart.
Naomi, I felt was a believable character. I think there was a good amount of background information on her, as in telling, but I wished there a few more scenes, on her life before she was captured, showing us more in her lonely life. As the story begins, she basically wakes up to her captures. As the story goes, you learn more about Naomi, her personality, and how, throughout her time, in a strange home, with strange people, she learns to gain more perspective on her old life, on how her workaholics, wealthy parents may have not truly cared for her, but...as she is gaining some new identity, she realizes a love she never really thought she could have, and that's for Jesse; the one kidnapper, that does not seem like a kidnapper, like one of the other ones, but he's different, and it is a wonder why he got himself in this situation, but that's explained, as well as their, relationship, yes they have one, and sometimes I did not want to trust Jesse, because in ways he does seem mysterious, but he is good to Naomi, and eventually shows how he cares about her, in the end, and that's something that you'll definitely have to read on your own.
I felt that the Author has really great writing, and to the last page, I was just intrigued into this story, and at the last page, all I want to do now is read Pieces, book 2 :)
My Rating: 4/5
I say a Strong PG-13 Rating (Some Mild Sexual Situations, Language & Violent Content)
Naomi, I felt was a believable character. I think there was a good amount of background information on her, as in telling, but I wished there a few more scenes, on her life before she was captured, showing us more in her lonely life. As the story begins, she basically wakes up to her captures. As the story goes, you learn more about Naomi, her personality, and how, throughout her time, in a strange home, with strange people, she learns to gain more perspective on her old life, on how her workaholics, wealthy parents may have not truly cared for her, but...as she is gaining some new identity, she realizes a love she never really thought she could have, and that's for Jesse; the one kidnapper, that does not seem like a kidnapper, like one of the other ones, but he's different, and it is a wonder why he got himself in this situation, but that's explained, as well as their, relationship, yes they have one, and sometimes I did not want to trust Jesse, because in ways he does seem mysterious, but he is good to Naomi, and eventually shows how he cares about her, in the end, and that's something that you'll definitely have to read on your own.
I felt that the Author has really great writing, and to the last page, I was just intrigued into this story, and at the last page, all I want to do now is read Pieces, book 2 :)
My Rating: 4/5
I say a Strong PG-13 Rating (Some Mild Sexual Situations, Language & Violent Content)
January 26, 2013
I’m not sure where to start with this review but The Breakaway….I wanted to love it….but I just couldn’t.
This story is about a girl called Naomi who has been kidnapped. While being held by her captive’s, it’s there that she starts to fall for one of them; a guy called Jesse. She has a connection to him that she can’t deny and he really seems to love her back. However, in order to survive Naomi isn’t allowed to leave her captives home or try to escape – ever. They want her to forget about her parents that never paid any attention to her and to forget about her abusive boyfriend and live with them forever, but can she really do that by living with kidnappers and are her feelings for Jesse real?
This story actually started off pretty good but the more I read, the more I lost interest and to be honest, there were a number of things I didn't like. In parts, I guess the storyline just felt all to….easy. I didn’t believe Naomi’s reactions or feeling to her kidnappers. Naomi believed everything far too easily. I did an internal battle with myself trying to figure out if Naomi did have Stockholm Syndrome and I guess the answers lie with the second book, but honestly…...I'm not sure. She seems to enjoy her captive's company and she even has the chance to be away from them but their still on her mind. I'm just not sure.
I also felt disconnected to the story because of how fast paced it was. It spans over a year and each chapter isn’t as long as it could have been. I felt if the story had been longer – then maybe I could have enjoyed the writing a bit more and felt that bit more connected to the characters.
Nonetheless, I can see how many people enjoyed this story but honestly, it just wasn’t for me.
This story is about a girl called Naomi who has been kidnapped. While being held by her captive’s, it’s there that she starts to fall for one of them; a guy called Jesse. She has a connection to him that she can’t deny and he really seems to love her back. However, in order to survive Naomi isn’t allowed to leave her captives home or try to escape – ever. They want her to forget about her parents that never paid any attention to her and to forget about her abusive boyfriend and live with them forever, but can she really do that by living with kidnappers and are her feelings for Jesse real?
This story actually started off pretty good but the more I read, the more I lost interest and to be honest, there were a number of things I didn't like. In parts, I guess the storyline just felt all to….easy. I didn’t believe Naomi’s reactions or feeling to her kidnappers. Naomi believed everything far too easily. I did an internal battle with myself trying to figure out if Naomi did have Stockholm Syndrome and I guess the answers lie with the second book, but honestly…...I'm not sure. She seems to enjoy her captive's company and she even has the chance to be away from them but their still on her mind. I'm just not sure.
I also felt disconnected to the story because of how fast paced it was. It spans over a year and each chapter isn’t as long as it could have been. I felt if the story had been longer – then maybe I could have enjoyed the writing a bit more and felt that bit more connected to the characters.
Nonetheless, I can see how many people enjoyed this story but honestly, it just wasn’t for me.
October 27, 2016
I've just finished my third read of this book and it was just as emotional as ever.
******
This is the second time I've read this book. I'm not sure what made me pick it up again bit I'm so glad I did. I have so many feelings for this book, it was sad and hopeful and heartbreaking all at once.
******
This is the second time I've read this book. I'm not sure what made me pick it up again bit I'm so glad I did. I have so many feelings for this book, it was sad and hopeful and heartbreaking all at once.
Want to read
December 11, 2011an unhealthy dose of stockholm syndrome?
HELL YES!
HELL YES!
June 11, 2017
Ehhhhh
November 28, 2012
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS AT READING, EATING AND DREAMING I WAS BLAIR WALDORF
The Breakaway was INTENSE. It's a captivating, original story that will make you question everyone and everything. Who are the good guys? Who are the bad guys? Are they really the good guys? Are they really the bad guys? As a reader, you pretty much develop Stockholm Syndrome along with Naomi. I mean are her captors good people? At times, they seem like really decent people, but they kidnapped her so how could any of then be good? I thought that once I finished The Breakaway I would have all of the answers, but looking back, I still can't label all of the characters as either good or bad, some were a little bit of both. Not all of the characters fit into a neat little box.
The Breakaway isn't your typical young adult novel. It's definitely a lot different from the young adult books that I usually read. For one thing, it's a lot darker than my usual picks. For another, it's definitely not a hearts and flowers romance, which is the type of romance I typically choose. I couldn't read a novel like The Breakaway every day, but it was a wonderful change of pace from my regular reads. It definitely stands apart from other novels in its genre.
Like I said before, The Breakaway is not a hearts and flowers romance novel. Don't get me wrong, there's a romance in this novel, but it's not your typical romance.
Naomi, the main character in this novel, is kidnapped and brought to live with her captors. Plotting her escape, Naomi acts like she is falling in love with Jesse, one of her captors. Over time, Naomi realizes that Jesse treats her better than her boyfriend ever did, and she starts to really fall for him. Jesse is the first person to ever show her what love is. As time goes on, Naomi's feelings for Jesse deepen, and eventually they embark on an unorthodox relationship. I doubt that everyone will support their relationship. You will have to decide for yourself whether you should root for then or not, but whether you root for them or not, this is a mind-blowing novel worth reading.
There were multiple times throughout the novel when I honestly questioned whether Naomi was better off with her captors or at home. There were times when I couldn't clearly see what was best for her. Naomi had a loveless upbringing. Her parents were so busy with their careers that she was raised by nannies, and her long-term boyfriend was abusive and controlling. Naomi had a "home" for the first time with her captors. Naomi felt safe and loved for the first time because of Jesse, one of her captors.
I woke up the day after I finished this novel still thinking about Naomi. This is definitely a book that sticks with you and makes you think. It's an intense, emotional, thought-provoking novel.
I gave The Breakaway by Michelle Davidson Argyle 4 STARS. This is a beautifully developed novel that will make an impact and leave a lasting impression on readers.
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
The Breakaway was INTENSE. It's a captivating, original story that will make you question everyone and everything. Who are the good guys? Who are the bad guys? Are they really the good guys? Are they really the bad guys? As a reader, you pretty much develop Stockholm Syndrome along with Naomi. I mean are her captors good people? At times, they seem like really decent people, but they kidnapped her so how could any of then be good? I thought that once I finished The Breakaway I would have all of the answers, but looking back, I still can't label all of the characters as either good or bad, some were a little bit of both. Not all of the characters fit into a neat little box.
The Breakaway isn't your typical young adult novel. It's definitely a lot different from the young adult books that I usually read. For one thing, it's a lot darker than my usual picks. For another, it's definitely not a hearts and flowers romance, which is the type of romance I typically choose. I couldn't read a novel like The Breakaway every day, but it was a wonderful change of pace from my regular reads. It definitely stands apart from other novels in its genre.
Like I said before, The Breakaway is not a hearts and flowers romance novel. Don't get me wrong, there's a romance in this novel, but it's not your typical romance.
Naomi, the main character in this novel, is kidnapped and brought to live with her captors. Plotting her escape, Naomi acts like she is falling in love with Jesse, one of her captors. Over time, Naomi realizes that Jesse treats her better than her boyfriend ever did, and she starts to really fall for him. Jesse is the first person to ever show her what love is. As time goes on, Naomi's feelings for Jesse deepen, and eventually they embark on an unorthodox relationship. I doubt that everyone will support their relationship. You will have to decide for yourself whether you should root for then or not, but whether you root for them or not, this is a mind-blowing novel worth reading.
There were multiple times throughout the novel when I honestly questioned whether Naomi was better off with her captors or at home. There were times when I couldn't clearly see what was best for her. Naomi had a loveless upbringing. Her parents were so busy with their careers that she was raised by nannies, and her long-term boyfriend was abusive and controlling. Naomi had a "home" for the first time with her captors. Naomi felt safe and loved for the first time because of Jesse, one of her captors.
I woke up the day after I finished this novel still thinking about Naomi. This is definitely a book that sticks with you and makes you think. It's an intense, emotional, thought-provoking novel.
I gave The Breakaway by Michelle Davidson Argyle 4 STARS. This is a beautifully developed novel that will make an impact and leave a lasting impression on readers.
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
September 8, 2018
This book was freakin' AMAZING! I loved it from start to finish. I was hooked through the entire book. The beginning grabbed your attention immediately diving into the plot. Naomi lives a lonely life up until she was fourteen when she got with her first boyfriend Brad. Naomi's parents are too busy caught up in their work to bother with their own daughter. Most teenagers Naomi's age don't want their parents attention, but it's the opposite for Naomi growing up with nannies to care for her. Brad made her feel wanted and not so alone anymore. But Brad was controlling, temper mental, and aggressive. Naomi let's him force her into things because her parents never really did. His love is the only love she's ever really known. When Naomi is hit by a car and kidnapped by the two people who hit her she learns there's more to a family and love than she's ever known. Eric planned to kill Naomi fearing she would runaway and turn them in if she saw their license number. Thanks to Jesse and the woman who is like a mother to them all Evelyn her life is spared. Naomi is given a chance to live with them and be part of their family as long as she does what they tell her to. Naomi only attempts to escape once, but Eric spares her life since she promises she won't do it again. I think Naomi is the type of person to keep promises and Eric realized that so he spared her life. Naomi plans to trick Jesse into falling in love with her so she can finally escape. But she really does end up falling in the love with and he does with her too. Jesse never hurts her and keeps his promise to her. He tries to keep Eric from her hurting her when she disobeys a few times, but he eventually realizes he can't protect her though. He loves her and wants to see her happy again so he takes her away and together they escape away from them. Jesse drops Naomi off at a police station and leaves her. He let's her go because he loves her wants her to be happy. Naomi is reunited with her family again and they work on trying to be an actual family together. Four months later Jesse and Naomi find each other on a beach and are reunited briefly. He tells her he's going to turn himself in because he feels like it's the right thing to do. He would feel better doing that and would feel better about being with her in the future if she'd be willing to wait. Jesse does turn himself in at the end. The story was bittersweet and everything fit perfectly together. This is my favorite book enough said!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2013
Please note: Read and reviewed in June, 2012. The sequel is due out soon!!
Book Info: Genre: Suspense
Reading Level: Young Adult
Trigger Warnings: Domestic abuse, parental neglect
Recommended for: anybody to whom it sounds good
Disclosure: I received a free ebook ARC from Rhemalda Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: When Naomi Jensen is kidnapped, it takes her parents two days to realize she’s missing. Escape isn’t high on her list of priorities when all she has to return to is an abusive boyfriend and parents who never paid much attention to her. For the first time in her life she’s part of a family—even if it is a family of criminals. But she’s still a captive. In a desperate attempt to regain some control in her life, Naomi embarks on a dangerous plan to make one of her kidnappers think she’s falling in love with him. The plan works too well, and when faced with the chance to escape, Naomi isn’t sure she wants to take it.
My Thoughts: I loved Ms. Argyle’s book, Monarch, which I read last fall. So, after reading the Puzzle Lands books, I wanted to read something lighter, but the one I was thinking of reading had lots of illustrations and I would have needed to read it on my computer rather than my Kindle, so instead I ended up reading this book about a girl who is kidnapped and her relationship with the kidnappers. Not exactly easy or light fare... but, so beautifully written and realistic! How Ms. Argyle got into these people’s heads like this is just amazing to me. The emotional depth to this book, watching Naomi grow into herself and become stronger over the time she spends with her captors; watching the way her parents grow and change over that time as well – it’s all very well-done. It’s hard to explain; you’ll just have to read it for yourself. I highly recommend it.
Book Info: Genre: Suspense
Reading Level: Young Adult
Trigger Warnings: Domestic abuse, parental neglect
Recommended for: anybody to whom it sounds good
Disclosure: I received a free ebook ARC from Rhemalda Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: When Naomi Jensen is kidnapped, it takes her parents two days to realize she’s missing. Escape isn’t high on her list of priorities when all she has to return to is an abusive boyfriend and parents who never paid much attention to her. For the first time in her life she’s part of a family—even if it is a family of criminals. But she’s still a captive. In a desperate attempt to regain some control in her life, Naomi embarks on a dangerous plan to make one of her kidnappers think she’s falling in love with him. The plan works too well, and when faced with the chance to escape, Naomi isn’t sure she wants to take it.
My Thoughts: I loved Ms. Argyle’s book, Monarch, which I read last fall. So, after reading the Puzzle Lands books, I wanted to read something lighter, but the one I was thinking of reading had lots of illustrations and I would have needed to read it on my computer rather than my Kindle, so instead I ended up reading this book about a girl who is kidnapped and her relationship with the kidnappers. Not exactly easy or light fare... but, so beautifully written and realistic! How Ms. Argyle got into these people’s heads like this is just amazing to me. The emotional depth to this book, watching Naomi grow into herself and become stronger over the time she spends with her captors; watching the way her parents grow and change over that time as well – it’s all very well-done. It’s hard to explain; you’ll just have to read it for yourself. I highly recommend it.
May 22, 2012
*An ARC was provided by Rhemalda Publishing in exchange for an honest review*
I will admit that going into this book I didn’t think I would enjoy it that much. But, after about 10 pages, I knew that I was wrong.
I loved it. Loved loved loved it! I usually avoid books like this because the whole being kidnapped situation really bothers me, but I really enjoyed this story about it. I think the reason I did was because her captors were super-nice to her and didn’t really mess with her, if you know what I mean. Even though it isn’t really a very eventful topic with a lot of action, I was completely hooked from page one and couldn’t stop reading. The story line and writing were amazing, as well as the idea. The events leading up to the climax were really good too, keeping me interested the entire time. Really really good.
I really really like Naomi. She was really really strong and handled her situation very well. She was smart, could take care of herself, and I think she was an all-around great character.
And then there’s Jesse. I must say, I didn’t really like him. I LOVED HIM!! Give me more Jesse! He was so nice and sweet and totally swoon-worthy. *drools over keyboard*
And, last but not least, I really liked the change that Naomi’s parents underwent. I went from hating them to actually kind of liking them, especially the mom. She underwent the biggest change, and I really liked that Argyle threw in that extra thing.
I really enjoyed this book a lot and I don’t think it’s being made into a series, but I really hope there’s at least a sequel so I can see what happens to Jesse.
~Emily @ Emily's Crammed Bookshelf
I will admit that going into this book I didn’t think I would enjoy it that much. But, after about 10 pages, I knew that I was wrong.
I loved it. Loved loved loved it! I usually avoid books like this because the whole being kidnapped situation really bothers me, but I really enjoyed this story about it. I think the reason I did was because her captors were super-nice to her and didn’t really mess with her, if you know what I mean. Even though it isn’t really a very eventful topic with a lot of action, I was completely hooked from page one and couldn’t stop reading. The story line and writing were amazing, as well as the idea. The events leading up to the climax were really good too, keeping me interested the entire time. Really really good.
I really really like Naomi. She was really really strong and handled her situation very well. She was smart, could take care of herself, and I think she was an all-around great character.
And then there’s Jesse. I must say, I didn’t really like him. I LOVED HIM!! Give me more Jesse! He was so nice and sweet and totally swoon-worthy. *drools over keyboard*
And, last but not least, I really liked the change that Naomi’s parents underwent. I went from hating them to actually kind of liking them, especially the mom. She underwent the biggest change, and I really liked that Argyle threw in that extra thing.
I really enjoyed this book a lot and I don’t think it’s being made into a series, but I really hope there’s at least a sequel so I can see what happens to Jesse.
~Emily @ Emily's Crammed Bookshelf
Want to read
November 15, 2011Ohh, books about kidnapping are so addicting! I just finished "Held" by Edeet Ravel about a month ago, and already I'm foaming at the mouth for this one!
June 7, 2012
Really good! I liked Stolen and Held better but I was still intrigued and had some Stockholm Syndrome.
June 16, 2023
Terminé un libro (it's been 84 years!!)
No es la típica historia de secuestro that's for sure, pero no estoy segura de que me haya GUSTADO. Estuvo entretenido, me mantuvo enganchada la mayor parte del tiempo, pero, al mismo tiempo, no me importan ninguno de los personajes y me da igual que Jessie se pudra en la cárcel y nunca se reencuentre con Naomi. AUNQUE sí me gustó todo el tema de querer quedarte con tus captores porque tus padres son unos obsesos del trabajo que sólo reaccionan (Y TARDE) cuando te arrancan de sus vidas.
No es la típica historia de secuestro that's for sure, pero no estoy segura de que me haya GUSTADO. Estuvo entretenido, me mantuvo enganchada la mayor parte del tiempo, pero, al mismo tiempo, no me importan ninguno de los personajes y me da igual que Jessie se pudra en la cárcel y nunca se reencuentre con Naomi. AUNQUE sí me gustó todo el tema de querer quedarte con tus captores porque tus padres son unos obsesos del trabajo que sólo reaccionan (Y TARDE) cuando te arrancan de sus vidas.
January 3, 2018
This was a really good choice as my first read of the year. While I mostly enjoy reading fluffy soft things every once in a while I decide to succumb to something more dark and I must admit that captor/captive relationships always intrigue me so it was really nice to read such a good book about that theme.
What I really liked about this novel was that it allowed us to explore the whole inner turmoil of leading character and how because of how her life had been up until that point it was easy for her to grow attached to her captors.
The writing style is very fluid and the books flows by without you noticing it. The characters are well created and it is quite fascinating to try to get into their minds and guess what is that they're thinking and the plot manages to keep you trapped up until the last page.
This is a great story and though I would have liked to see more about the relationship of Naomi and Jesse I think this book fulfilled all my expectations.
I'm giving it a four stars.
What I really liked about this novel was that it allowed us to explore the whole inner turmoil of leading character and how because of how her life had been up until that point it was easy for her to grow attached to her captors.
The writing style is very fluid and the books flows by without you noticing it. The characters are well created and it is quite fascinating to try to get into their minds and guess what is that they're thinking and the plot manages to keep you trapped up until the last page.
This is a great story and though I would have liked to see more about the relationship of Naomi and Jesse I think this book fulfilled all my expectations.
I'm giving it a four stars.
February 22, 2013
***FINAL RATING: 3.35 STARS***
CATCHALL
The Breakaway was a haunting–and yet compelling–read. It's the kind of book that creeps up on you months after you turn the last page. It definitely deals with some tough, unconventional stuff, but everything is handled so well. I really did like it, despite its flaws and the fact that it gave me the creeps.
THE HEROINE
NAOMI
Naomi isn't a very strong character, and she's extremely difficult to relate to. She's lulled into a new life so easily with her kidnappers, and she believes her parents don't love her, much like any teenager. She has extremely questionable decision-making skills. I just couldn't connect to her or her voice. Her thought processes also didn't make much sense to me and she was kind of annoying.
THE LOVE INTEREST
JESSE
I don't like Jesse. I don't care that he's not really a bad guy, he's still a freaking kidnapper. He also kind of just goes along with everything for the longest time, making him kind of a pushover. He didn't appeal to me as a character at all, and while I think he's redeemable I don't think he redeemed himself. He made a lot of bad choices and while I think he can make them up it's going to take a lot more than what he did.
THE OTHER KIDNAPPERS
I did leave out Steve because there's really not much to say about him
ERIC
I truly, truly do not understand how Naomi can care for Eric. Yeah, Stockholm can be strong stuff, I'm sure. But he threatened to kill her. And he got out a gun, and he was going to, and she still cares for him. As far as I'm concerned he's a sociopath and should be locked up for life.
EVELYN
Evelyn was sweet and genuinely caring, but she was also a major pushover. She got caught up in Eric's messes but instead of leaving him to it she decided to just go along with it. I think she might be redeemable too, but that's not a story for us to know.
THE PLOT
It starts right off with the action, launching straight into the kidnapping itself. But especially in the beginning, there are tons of flashbacks. And Naomi starts to wonder which life is better. The one in which she lives now, kidnapped, or the one before? That seems like an easy question. But Naomi feels like she has nothing to return to.
Naomi's kidnappers want to make her feel at home so that she doesn't want to leave. And eventually, it begins to work. There's irony in the way it all ends, and the story certainly took directions that I didn't expect multiple times.
The Breakaway was a bit predictable, but not so much that it got overly frustrating. I knew how it was going to ultimately end, but the path it took to get there is not one I expected. I was pleased by the way everything turned out and though Naomi did a lot of things that were really dumb I tried not to pass too much judgment.
This is very different from things I've read before. Kidnapping is not a common theme in my favorite books, but I really enjoyed this book and want to read more like it now.
THE ROMANCE
I'm not there's any way to not find this romance rather disturbing. It's classic Stockholm syndrome, and Naomi certainly has that. She finds herself feeling connected to Jesse even as she knows how wrong it is. And I can't say I blame her. I also hesitate to call it love. I think she might be in love with the idea of him, a savior. And I think he truly cares about her. But it's just not enough.
THE WRITING
I really like this writing style, but Naomi's voice is so weak that I really couldn't enjoy it the way I wanted to. Michelle's writing is simple, and it tells things as they are. It worked for the story, but there were way too many times where Naomi thinks to herself and it just really got on my nerves. Even so, I love the way she describes things in such vivid detail.
THE ENDING
The Breakaway ended on a very open note, leaving the reader not sure what was going to happen next but without being an actual cliffhanger. Naomi is going to have a lot of developing to do as a person, and her kidnappers are going to have to face the consequences of their actions. All in all, it was a satisfying ending.
WRAPUP
The Breakaway was a very heavy read, but it was very enjoyable. I really, really liked it and am definitely going to read Bonded at some point, since it looks similar but I hear that it's even better. I would recommend this to most readers. It's not light reading material by any means, but sometimes you need something with substance.
FINE.
Find more of my reviews on Sparkles and Lightning!
CATCHALL
The Breakaway was a haunting–and yet compelling–read. It's the kind of book that creeps up on you months after you turn the last page. It definitely deals with some tough, unconventional stuff, but everything is handled so well. I really did like it, despite its flaws and the fact that it gave me the creeps.
THE HEROINE
NAOMI
Naomi isn't a very strong character, and she's extremely difficult to relate to. She's lulled into a new life so easily with her kidnappers, and she believes her parents don't love her, much like any teenager. She has extremely questionable decision-making skills. I just couldn't connect to her or her voice. Her thought processes also didn't make much sense to me and she was kind of annoying.
THE LOVE INTEREST
JESSE
I don't like Jesse. I don't care that he's not really a bad guy, he's still a freaking kidnapper. He also kind of just goes along with everything for the longest time, making him kind of a pushover. He didn't appeal to me as a character at all, and while I think he's redeemable I don't think he redeemed himself. He made a lot of bad choices and while I think he can make them up it's going to take a lot more than what he did.
THE OTHER KIDNAPPERS
I did leave out Steve because there's really not much to say about him
ERIC
I truly, truly do not understand how Naomi can care for Eric. Yeah, Stockholm can be strong stuff, I'm sure. But he threatened to kill her. And he got out a gun, and he was going to, and she still cares for him. As far as I'm concerned he's a sociopath and should be locked up for life.
EVELYN
Evelyn was sweet and genuinely caring, but she was also a major pushover. She got caught up in Eric's messes but instead of leaving him to it she decided to just go along with it. I think she might be redeemable too, but that's not a story for us to know.
THE PLOT
It starts right off with the action, launching straight into the kidnapping itself. But especially in the beginning, there are tons of flashbacks. And Naomi starts to wonder which life is better. The one in which she lives now, kidnapped, or the one before? That seems like an easy question. But Naomi feels like she has nothing to return to.
Naomi's kidnappers want to make her feel at home so that she doesn't want to leave. And eventually, it begins to work. There's irony in the way it all ends, and the story certainly took directions that I didn't expect multiple times.
The Breakaway was a bit predictable, but not so much that it got overly frustrating. I knew how it was going to ultimately end, but the path it took to get there is not one I expected. I was pleased by the way everything turned out and though Naomi did a lot of things that were really dumb I tried not to pass too much judgment.
This is very different from things I've read before. Kidnapping is not a common theme in my favorite books, but I really enjoyed this book and want to read more like it now.
THE ROMANCE
I'm not there's any way to not find this romance rather disturbing. It's classic Stockholm syndrome, and Naomi certainly has that. She finds herself feeling connected to Jesse even as she knows how wrong it is. And I can't say I blame her. I also hesitate to call it love. I think she might be in love with the idea of him, a savior. And I think he truly cares about her. But it's just not enough.
THE WRITING
I really like this writing style, but Naomi's voice is so weak that I really couldn't enjoy it the way I wanted to. Michelle's writing is simple, and it tells things as they are. It worked for the story, but there were way too many times where Naomi thinks to herself and it just really got on my nerves. Even so, I love the way she describes things in such vivid detail.
THE ENDING
The Breakaway ended on a very open note, leaving the reader not sure what was going to happen next but without being an actual cliffhanger. Naomi is going to have a lot of developing to do as a person, and her kidnappers are going to have to face the consequences of their actions. All in all, it was a satisfying ending.
WRAPUP
The Breakaway was a very heavy read, but it was very enjoyable. I really, really liked it and am definitely going to read Bonded at some point, since it looks similar but I hear that it's even better. I would recommend this to most readers. It's not light reading material by any means, but sometimes you need something with substance.
FINE.
Find more of my reviews on Sparkles and Lightning!
February 22, 2013
As seen on my blog:
I have always been into the disturbing phenomena that is Stockholm Syndrome. I'm not sure sure if that places me in some very small margin of people who like weird things, but let's pretend it doesn't. It just fascinates me to no end, this human psyche of ours, and the extent it goes to to fold itself into it's surroundings, no matter how uncomfortable. I'm all too familiar with the real life accounts of such cases, but this was my first time experiencing it in fiction-which, by the way, can have so much more of an impact sometimes.
Oh and make it an impact it DID, which was a surprise all on it's own. A ridiculous amount of YA books these days seem to favour this line: "she/he was anything but your normal teenager," no matter the genre, or lack/abundance of supernatural, magical or superhuman powers. Very rarely does that line live up to it's hyped up, or played down, claim-I usually just end up having to endure a whiny, superficial, air-head of a character who blows their "horrible" past way out of proportion. Naomi Jensen came very close to being one of these characters. Though SOMETHING about her made me see past the naivety, and repetitive thinking, and brought me directly into her cheer squad-I became extremely invested in her character, and wanted to break a couple of necks when she felt pain, or sadness. She was humble, and introverted, even before the kidnapping, and I think I really related to that. She was an actual loner, and not because of some horrific incident, she just was, and though it stemmed from insecurities about herself, it didn't make me annoyed with her...which was SO.STRANGE.
I want to say things like "she was too weak!" "she was too gullible!", but despite it being the truth, the author provided us with a complete enough idea of why she would be either of those things. I see that a lot of people chided this book for not depicting the "true" nature of hostage/Stockholm Syndrome situations, but I appreciated the lack of graphic scenes in this book, especially as someone who was new to reading first-hand accounts. It was a good first stepping-stone book, and I think the author really took the time to create scenes that would render understanding, as opposed to disgust and rage. It needed to be believable that Naomi could and would fall for one of her captors, if there had been anything more than a push or slam here and there, I might have closed the book and never picked it up again.
The side characters were believable and, although I knew I was suppose to have a measure of hate for them, found myself growing attached them, right along with Naomi. It was one of the rare occasions where I didn't feel like I was seeing things the main character wasn't, I felt like she was right at par with my mind state, or I with hers. In that sense, she didn't experience extreme Stockholm Syndrome symptoms, as she knew very well how wrong her situation was, she just viewed it as the lesser of two evils. The other evil being her life back at home with an abusive boyfriend, and parents who don't seem to acknowledge her existence. It added a fascinating dynamic.
I wish I could go on in detail about more of the story line, but it would be useless. This book was predominately emotions for me-I felt some of each, some at the very same time. I wasn't pondering past scenes, or trying to predict future ones as I sat alongside Naomi. I was in the very moment of every word I read, and at every new discovery she made. This was such a rare experience for me, and it's something I hope you can ALL feel when you read this book.
----------
*DISCLAIMER* I received this book as an ecopy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
I have always been into the disturbing phenomena that is Stockholm Syndrome. I'm not sure sure if that places me in some very small margin of people who like weird things, but let's pretend it doesn't. It just fascinates me to no end, this human psyche of ours, and the extent it goes to to fold itself into it's surroundings, no matter how uncomfortable. I'm all too familiar with the real life accounts of such cases, but this was my first time experiencing it in fiction-which, by the way, can have so much more of an impact sometimes.
Oh and make it an impact it DID, which was a surprise all on it's own. A ridiculous amount of YA books these days seem to favour this line: "she/he was anything but your normal teenager," no matter the genre, or lack/abundance of supernatural, magical or superhuman powers. Very rarely does that line live up to it's hyped up, or played down, claim-I usually just end up having to endure a whiny, superficial, air-head of a character who blows their "horrible" past way out of proportion. Naomi Jensen came very close to being one of these characters. Though SOMETHING about her made me see past the naivety, and repetitive thinking, and brought me directly into her cheer squad-I became extremely invested in her character, and wanted to break a couple of necks when she felt pain, or sadness. She was humble, and introverted, even before the kidnapping, and I think I really related to that. She was an actual loner, and not because of some horrific incident, she just was, and though it stemmed from insecurities about herself, it didn't make me annoyed with her...which was SO.STRANGE.
I want to say things like "she was too weak!" "she was too gullible!", but despite it being the truth, the author provided us with a complete enough idea of why she would be either of those things. I see that a lot of people chided this book for not depicting the "true" nature of hostage/Stockholm Syndrome situations, but I appreciated the lack of graphic scenes in this book, especially as someone who was new to reading first-hand accounts. It was a good first stepping-stone book, and I think the author really took the time to create scenes that would render understanding, as opposed to disgust and rage. It needed to be believable that Naomi could and would fall for one of her captors, if there had been anything more than a push or slam here and there, I might have closed the book and never picked it up again.
The side characters were believable and, although I knew I was suppose to have a measure of hate for them, found myself growing attached them, right along with Naomi. It was one of the rare occasions where I didn't feel like I was seeing things the main character wasn't, I felt like she was right at par with my mind state, or I with hers. In that sense, she didn't experience extreme Stockholm Syndrome symptoms, as she knew very well how wrong her situation was, she just viewed it as the lesser of two evils. The other evil being her life back at home with an abusive boyfriend, and parents who don't seem to acknowledge her existence. It added a fascinating dynamic.
I wish I could go on in detail about more of the story line, but it would be useless. This book was predominately emotions for me-I felt some of each, some at the very same time. I wasn't pondering past scenes, or trying to predict future ones as I sat alongside Naomi. I was in the very moment of every word I read, and at every new discovery she made. This was such a rare experience for me, and it's something I hope you can ALL feel when you read this book.
----------
*DISCLAIMER* I received this book as an ecopy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2014
This book is about kidnapping, to tell you the truth I’ve seen a lot of books that goes around this subject matter lately. And although sometimes I like to get out of my comfort zone and read about different things, unfortunately almost all of them seems to be about some pretty heavy stuff, also involving things like slavery, human traffic and etc... and that’s just not my thing. But sometimes I do find some books that gives me what I want but don’t go that far. And that’s why this book caught my attention, because it seemed to be more “light” and so I decided to give it a real shot.
It didn’t rock my world, but at the same time it was enough to keep me hooked to the story and to give me a few things to think about.
So, this was mostly about an almost eighteen years old girl who used to be ignored by her parents, they never had time for her. Naomi kind of hide herself inside of a shell, and was also very lonely and needy, she never had someone who really cared about her, that’s why she clinged to her overbearing and abusive boyfriend. So one day Naomi was out taking some pictures in the street and in the other second she woke up surrounded by strange people asking her weird stuff and threatening her. They decided to take her to their house and keep her there with them. But the weird thing is that they didn’t want her as hostage, they didn’t want to kill her but they also couldn’t let her go, not when she had already saw their faces. As the time went by, she learned that they wanted her to be with them and to be happy among their family. They weren’t mean; actually they did seem to care about her. That’s when Naomi started to get confused, after all, in her mind what was the point to get back to her old life when actually there was nothing there? Naomi struggles with her feelings towards herself, her parents, and her captors the whole time.
But that was the weird thing for me, see I could understand her reasons to prefer her life with her captors, but what I couldn’t understand was how she could let go of her freedom, how she could not fight for it. Sometimes I felt like Naomi didn’t live in the real world, she just accepted the rules as if it wasn’t a big deal, sometimes I felt like the only thought of having people who cared about her was enough, and that was just crazy. I just wanted her to be stronger and to stand for herself. And a part from the Stockholm syndrome she also had some heavy issues, actually sometimes I felt like that was one of her minor problems.
I saw her relationship with Jesse as a bonus to the story and it certainly made her grow up and see things different, which was good. But at the same time, I didn’t really connected with their relationship, I still don’t know what was special about him, sure he wasn’t the leader, he never hurt her, and actually was a very good friend to her, I guess I just didn’t grow fonder of him, at least not until the end.
The Breakaway was well written, the author gave us some flashbacks about her life, and sometimes it was a bit annoying, but at the same time they were important for us to understand her better. It was also written in third person and it’s mostly told by Naomi’s pov, but sometimes she switched it for her mother’s.
So this was a good novel, it fulfilled my needs for something around this subject matter. I think I would rate the most part of the story with 3.5, but the end got to me and it was a solid 4, because it ended how it should have, any other thing would have been wrong. And actually I did shed some tears at the beginning. I’m excited to read the sequel and learn what will happen in Naomi’s future. So I recommend this book for those who likes this kind of subject matter and at the same time are not expecting to get something heavier.
It didn’t rock my world, but at the same time it was enough to keep me hooked to the story and to give me a few things to think about.
So, this was mostly about an almost eighteen years old girl who used to be ignored by her parents, they never had time for her. Naomi kind of hide herself inside of a shell, and was also very lonely and needy, she never had someone who really cared about her, that’s why she clinged to her overbearing and abusive boyfriend. So one day Naomi was out taking some pictures in the street and in the other second she woke up surrounded by strange people asking her weird stuff and threatening her. They decided to take her to their house and keep her there with them. But the weird thing is that they didn’t want her as hostage, they didn’t want to kill her but they also couldn’t let her go, not when she had already saw their faces. As the time went by, she learned that they wanted her to be with them and to be happy among their family. They weren’t mean; actually they did seem to care about her. That’s when Naomi started to get confused, after all, in her mind what was the point to get back to her old life when actually there was nothing there? Naomi struggles with her feelings towards herself, her parents, and her captors the whole time.
But that was the weird thing for me, see I could understand her reasons to prefer her life with her captors, but what I couldn’t understand was how she could let go of her freedom, how she could not fight for it. Sometimes I felt like Naomi didn’t live in the real world, she just accepted the rules as if it wasn’t a big deal, sometimes I felt like the only thought of having people who cared about her was enough, and that was just crazy. I just wanted her to be stronger and to stand for herself. And a part from the Stockholm syndrome she also had some heavy issues, actually sometimes I felt like that was one of her minor problems.
I saw her relationship with Jesse as a bonus to the story and it certainly made her grow up and see things different, which was good. But at the same time, I didn’t really connected with their relationship, I still don’t know what was special about him, sure he wasn’t the leader, he never hurt her, and actually was a very good friend to her, I guess I just didn’t grow fonder of him, at least not until the end.
The Breakaway was well written, the author gave us some flashbacks about her life, and sometimes it was a bit annoying, but at the same time they were important for us to understand her better. It was also written in third person and it’s mostly told by Naomi’s pov, but sometimes she switched it for her mother’s.
So this was a good novel, it fulfilled my needs for something around this subject matter. I think I would rate the most part of the story with 3.5, but the end got to me and it was a solid 4, because it ended how it should have, any other thing would have been wrong. And actually I did shed some tears at the beginning. I’m excited to read the sequel and learn what will happen in Naomi’s future. So I recommend this book for those who likes this kind of subject matter and at the same time are not expecting to get something heavier.
January 21, 2020
Oh la la! I knew The Breakaway will be good, but now THIS good! As expected, I really enjoyed this book! I honestly don't know why I've been putting it aside for such a long time, don't judge me - I'm scolding myself at the moment. The plot is well written! It has the perfect amount of thrill, emotion, and romance that leaves such a desire to continue reading through the pages and igniting your imagination to the point where you can feel all the emotions of every character running through you! I absolutely enjoyed The Breakaway and would very recommend this book to teenagers and adults, there is not much of sexual scenes - besides kissing and "about to have sex but the mood is suddenly ruined by Naomi's desire to talk at the very moment of desire"! What surprised me the most is how Jesse was portrayed, I expected him to have dark hair and be a dominant man But what I didn't expect is Jesse to be a green eyed redhead DANG. Never have I read a book about kidnapping that had the kidnapper be a redhead, that is such great thinking out of the box - when we open a book, we expect the main character to be a dark mysterious alpha (dark hair, or maybe even blonde hair, grey eyes, olive skin, dominant and all that type of fuss) , but this is on a new type of level! The only reason I didn't give a 5-star rating is because I kind of had a hard time understanding some of the characters - one Minute they're all kind and sympathetic and the other minute they go all violent psycho mode. But overall I have very enjoyed The Breakaway!
May 3, 2012
Taken from my Blog http://lebooksquirrel.blogspot.com/
*REVIEW**Possible Spoilers
Another new Author for me.When the story first takes place you meet Naomi when she is 17 and after she has been kidnapped.I was a bit surprised that Naomi did not fight her captors a bit more but then who knows what I would have done?Her mom bothered me...I don't care who you are If your child is kidnapped you do anything in your power to get them back. I have to wonder if Naomi's mother Karen had shown her some amount of affection perhaps she would have fought back and tried to escape.
During the course of the book you meet Eric,Jesse,Evelyn and Steve.Honestly as much as I wanted to be angry at Evelyn,Steve and Jessie I couldnt.Eric,Well I had my moments of liking him until he had to go and be a jerk.During this book you will read about Naomi and Jesse's relationship.You know its wrong somewhat Stockholm Syndrome but then you can't help but enjoy seeing how it is going to play out and root for Jesse and Naomi.You will also meet Karen and Jason,Naomi's parents..who lack very much at parenting and finally you will know Brad who at the time of Her Kidnapping was her boyfriend.He is that type of guy that im sure looks good but isnt the kind you would want your daughter hanging out with.Especially how he treated Naomi.There was a part in the book that I had to cheer for Naomi that involves Brad.
Overall,I seriously enjoyed this book.(Now for my not professional sounding fan girl moment).As in I could NOT put it down.As in I did NOT want it to stop.As in OH MY GOD why did you have to end it like that?I will be SORELY disappointed if there is not a sequel.Well Done Michelle Davidson Argyle.Bravo Bravo.I hope many many readers enjoy it as much as I have.
*REVIEW**Possible Spoilers
Another new Author for me.When the story first takes place you meet Naomi when she is 17 and after she has been kidnapped.I was a bit surprised that Naomi did not fight her captors a bit more but then who knows what I would have done?Her mom bothered me...I don't care who you are If your child is kidnapped you do anything in your power to get them back. I have to wonder if Naomi's mother Karen had shown her some amount of affection perhaps she would have fought back and tried to escape.
During the course of the book you meet Eric,Jesse,Evelyn and Steve.Honestly as much as I wanted to be angry at Evelyn,Steve and Jessie I couldnt.Eric,Well I had my moments of liking him until he had to go and be a jerk.During this book you will read about Naomi and Jesse's relationship.You know its wrong somewhat Stockholm Syndrome but then you can't help but enjoy seeing how it is going to play out and root for Jesse and Naomi.You will also meet Karen and Jason,Naomi's parents..who lack very much at parenting and finally you will know Brad who at the time of Her Kidnapping was her boyfriend.He is that type of guy that im sure looks good but isnt the kind you would want your daughter hanging out with.Especially how he treated Naomi.There was a part in the book that I had to cheer for Naomi that involves Brad.
Overall,I seriously enjoyed this book.(Now for my not professional sounding fan girl moment).As in I could NOT put it down.As in I did NOT want it to stop.As in OH MY GOD why did you have to end it like that?I will be SORELY disappointed if there is not a sequel.Well Done Michelle Davidson Argyle.Bravo Bravo.I hope many many readers enjoy it as much as I have.
January 21, 2014
Wow. This was an intense book. It deals with some very real and some may say controversial issues. Naomi is kidnapped and the whole story centers around her and her captors and the various relationships they have. This book is masterfully done. I think Michelle Davison argyle's writing is incredible.
Naomi is very brave. I felt so bad for her throughout the whole book. She had a pretty rough life, and then of course this happens and she is basically a prisoner. The story starts off with her capture, so you don't really have a chance to know what her normal life was like. Right away, she was scared and in emergency mode, which was great. But I didn't know what she was normally like. I didn't have a baseline. But that being said, the beauty in Michelle's writing style is that she reveals all of that information throughout the vivid flashbacks. We learned about Naomi's family and her relationships all through memories and flashbacks.
Like I said before, this book is very intense. My emotions were all over the place while reading the breakaway. Her captors were their own little family, which was something Naomi felt she was lacking. I thought the breakaway was a fascinating look into the psychology of captor/captive behavior.
The relationship aspect if the book was equally as intense. Naomi was no stranger to abusive relationships. (This poor girl..- I think that was my most common thought while reading) so I think it was a little easier for me to understand why she acted the way that she did. I do have to admit that I don't think I would make the same choices she did, but then again I guess I can't really understand what she was going through. The breakaway is an intense ride, but I really liked it. It was though provoking and very rough and real.
Naomi is very brave. I felt so bad for her throughout the whole book. She had a pretty rough life, and then of course this happens and she is basically a prisoner. The story starts off with her capture, so you don't really have a chance to know what her normal life was like. Right away, she was scared and in emergency mode, which was great. But I didn't know what she was normally like. I didn't have a baseline. But that being said, the beauty in Michelle's writing style is that she reveals all of that information throughout the vivid flashbacks. We learned about Naomi's family and her relationships all through memories and flashbacks.
Like I said before, this book is very intense. My emotions were all over the place while reading the breakaway. Her captors were their own little family, which was something Naomi felt she was lacking. I thought the breakaway was a fascinating look into the psychology of captor/captive behavior.
The relationship aspect if the book was equally as intense. Naomi was no stranger to abusive relationships. (This poor girl..- I think that was my most common thought while reading) so I think it was a little easier for me to understand why she acted the way that she did. I do have to admit that I don't think I would make the same choices she did, but then again I guess I can't really understand what she was going through. The breakaway is an intense ride, but I really liked it. It was though provoking and very rough and real.
Want to read
April 21, 2012This book The Breakaway is a whole new take on how a person can fall in love with her captors.
Naomi was a rich girl and her parents never seemed to be around or care that much about her.(* clench teeth *) That was until she got kidnapped and her life changed. She had no one but she didn't have anyone before except for Brad, her boyfriend. Her captors believed she witnessed their crime so they took her on that faithful foggy night. SHe put on a strong front but since she never had to fight against anyone, her captors took her as a weakling. Since she knew she was no longer in her home she thought of a plan. Make the youngest of her captors fall in love with her. Then she would gain their trust and Breakaway. Does she plan on actually falling in love? NO.... But it was hard not to, she only spoke to the people who had kidnapped her and she was already making him fall in love with her so she fell hard too.
This amazing story of how a beautiful young girl gets kidnapped by a gang of thieves, how in the time of her capture her parents saw their failure in loving her and how the heart want, what the heart wants.
In the top twenty next to Stolen by Lucy Christopher.
Thank you Michelle Davidson Argyle for having the contest in which I won the ebook to review this book.
Naomi was a rich girl and her parents never seemed to be around or care that much about her.(* clench teeth *) That was until she got kidnapped and her life changed. She had no one but she didn't have anyone before except for Brad, her boyfriend. Her captors believed she witnessed their crime so they took her on that faithful foggy night. SHe put on a strong front but since she never had to fight against anyone, her captors took her as a weakling. Since she knew she was no longer in her home she thought of a plan. Make the youngest of her captors fall in love with her. Then she would gain their trust and Breakaway. Does she plan on actually falling in love? NO.... But it was hard not to, she only spoke to the people who had kidnapped her and she was already making him fall in love with her so she fell hard too.
This amazing story of how a beautiful young girl gets kidnapped by a gang of thieves, how in the time of her capture her parents saw their failure in loving her and how the heart want, what the heart wants.
In the top twenty next to Stolen by Lucy Christopher.
Thank you Michelle Davidson Argyle for having the contest in which I won the ebook to review this book.
May 7, 2012
I bought this book after I saw a GR giveaway from this book. When I read the blurb I was intrigued enough to buy it.
The book was based on a girl that was kidnapped and ended up falling in love with one of her captors. Classic case of Stockholm syndrome. The Breakaway I've seen categorized as YA, but it really didn't have that feel to it. Naomi is seventeen when she is kidnapped. She is abused, threatened and even loved during her capture. Naomi already had lots of problems going on in her life and being captured almost allowed her to be free. Jesse, one of her captures makes her life easier and she spends every chance she gets with him. The lines between being a kidnapping victim and part of a family start to get fuzzy. When she realizes her family hasn't given up on her like she thought they did, the wheels begin turning.
I really enjoyed this book but I must say I hated the ending. I don't like reaching the end of a book and just feeling like I was left hanging. This type of book is hard to give a concrete ending, but non the less I was not satisfied. I would certainly read more from this author.
The book was based on a girl that was kidnapped and ended up falling in love with one of her captors. Classic case of Stockholm syndrome. The Breakaway I've seen categorized as YA, but it really didn't have that feel to it. Naomi is seventeen when she is kidnapped. She is abused, threatened and even loved during her capture. Naomi already had lots of problems going on in her life and being captured almost allowed her to be free. Jesse, one of her captures makes her life easier and she spends every chance she gets with him. The lines between being a kidnapping victim and part of a family start to get fuzzy. When she realizes her family hasn't given up on her like she thought they did, the wheels begin turning.
I really enjoyed this book but I must say I hated the ending. I don't like reaching the end of a book and just feeling like I was left hanging. This type of book is hard to give a concrete ending, but non the less I was not satisfied. I would certainly read more from this author.
July 3, 2012
I am not into contemporary..but after reading a few last week..i though i will try something than the regular ones and got this.
Breakaway is a very emotional book..it has so many emotions that we see in form of Naomi's journey ..it's heartbreaking,sad and yes i cried.
Naomi is kidnapped by a group of 4 people who thought she saw something about their crime and now she is a hostage.
The kidnappers try to take care of her as much as possible and Jesse(*SIGHS*)tries to help her come out of the shell.
While she realises she never was really happy before than she was here bcoz of parents who hardly cared about her and her dreams,an dominant and abusive boyfriend -but still she is confused,weak,vulnerable.She can't overcome her need be here and want to go out.
And being with Jesse,a captivator no less - who may or maynot be the main reason for her hostage -falling for his love may be the most stupid and yet most happiest thing she done in her life.
Breakaway is a very emotional roller coster ride of and everyone can connect with the dilemma of a naomi and her confusion.
A good book :)
Sri.
Breakaway is a very emotional book..it has so many emotions that we see in form of Naomi's journey ..it's heartbreaking,sad and yes i cried.
Naomi is kidnapped by a group of 4 people who thought she saw something about their crime and now she is a hostage.
The kidnappers try to take care of her as much as possible and Jesse(*SIGHS*)tries to help her come out of the shell.
While she realises she never was really happy before than she was here bcoz of parents who hardly cared about her and her dreams,an dominant and abusive boyfriend -but still she is confused,weak,vulnerable.She can't overcome her need be here and want to go out.
And being with Jesse,a captivator no less - who may or maynot be the main reason for her hostage -falling for his love may be the most stupid and yet most happiest thing she done in her life.
Breakaway is a very emotional roller coster ride of and everyone can connect with the dilemma of a naomi and her confusion.
A good book :)
Sri.
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