What do you think?
Rate this book
Over You
After the grand explosion of her relationship, seventeen-year-old Max Scott developed what every girl in the history of the world has been waiting for: a way to get over being dumped. Now Max is the go-to guru for heartbroken high-school girls all over NYC. But when her ex unexpectedly shows up in her neighborhood, Max’s carefully controlled world starts to unravel. With her clients’ hearts hanging in the balance, Max will have to do the seemingly impossible: get over him once and for all.
Brilliant at bringing humor to the trials and tribulations of the lovestruck, #1 New York Times bestselling authors Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus have crafted a tale that will resonate with any girl who has ever been in love or had her heart broken. It brims with smart observations, features a pitch-perfect teen voice, and will attract fans of Jenny Han, Sarah Mlynowski, and Lauren Barnholdt. Readers are sure to fall head-over-heels for this sharp spin on breaking up, making up, and getting even.
Brilliant at bringing humor to the trials and tribulations of the lovestruck, #1 New York Times bestselling authors Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus have crafted a tale that will resonate with any girl who has ever been in love or had her heart broken. It brims with smart observations, features a pitch-perfect teen voice, and will attract fans of Jenny Han, Sarah Mlynowski, and Lauren Barnholdt. Readers are sure to fall head-over-heels for this sharp spin on breaking up, making up, and getting even.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published August 21, 2012
53 people are currently reading
3132 people want to read
About the author
Emma McLaughlin
23 books975 followersMy partner, Nicki, and I have been writing together for 12 years. We're obsessed by what makes a satisfying story. I'm excited to hear from our readers what does it for them -- and what doesn't. As a working mom, the only book time I manage to steal these days is right before bed. I'm not the girl who can watch SVU and go to sleep with a smile. Ruling out kids/the economy/the world in peril as subject matter leaves sweeping Wharton epics or swift funny observations. The best is when a book makes you feel like you're still talking in the whee hours with your best college friend.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
December 9, 2012
Hmph. This book basically pissed me the heck off, which sucks because I thought I was off my recent streak of bad book. I had so been looking forward to this book, and I bought it the day it came out, but within the first 8 pages, I disliked this book.
My Issues:
1: The book is in third person. This wouldn't be such an issue if it didn't keep CHANGING characters without any warning. One minute it'll be Max, then the next Taylor, then Ben, and then whoever else the McLaughlin felt like throwing in there. It was confusing and aggravating and it made things much more difficult than they needed to be.
2: The instalove. Ben meets Max and within 5 minutes, he's fallen in love with her. Really, McLaughlin? Really?
3: How unrealistic everything is.
4: How is Max able to afford all the things that she does in the book? Kickboxing lessons? Spinning lessons? Other miscellaneous items that she buys for her clients? From what I gathered, she doesn't charge her clients, so how exactly is she funding her business?
5: Max. I wouldn't have minded Max or any of the things she and her friends did, if there had been any kind of message behind the book. But there wasn't. It was just Max running around with unlimited funds doing whatever she wanted to with total disregard for anyone else's feelings.
I would NOT recommend this book to anyone, because the message it does send out isn't a good one. The only thing this book taught me, is that it's okay to hurt and lie to people as long as you *kind of* apologize for it afterwards.
My Issues:
1: The book is in third person. This wouldn't be such an issue if it didn't keep CHANGING characters without any warning. One minute it'll be Max, then the next Taylor, then Ben, and then whoever else the McLaughlin felt like throwing in there. It was confusing and aggravating and it made things much more difficult than they needed to be.
2: The instalove. Ben meets Max and within 5 minutes, he's fallen in love with her. Really, McLaughlin? Really?
3: How unrealistic everything is.
4: How is Max able to afford all the things that she does in the book? Kickboxing lessons? Spinning lessons? Other miscellaneous items that she buys for her clients? From what I gathered, she doesn't charge her clients, so how exactly is she funding her business?
5: Max. I wouldn't have minded Max or any of the things she and her friends did, if there had been any kind of message behind the book. But there wasn't. It was just Max running around with unlimited funds doing whatever she wanted to with total disregard for anyone else's feelings.
I would NOT recommend this book to anyone, because the message it does send out isn't a good one. The only thing this book taught me, is that it's okay to hurt and lie to people as long as you *kind of* apologize for it afterwards.
August 23, 2012
Emma McLaughlin & Nicola Kraus have done it again, managing to create yet another amazing book that I just couldn't put down!
I picked up 'Over You' as an ARC and was over joyed to have their latest YA novel in my hands. I hadn't known what the book was about until I started reading it and once I knew I found the coincidence a bit funny.
In 'Over You' the main character Max Scott starts a sort of business who's goal is to help girls going through a bad break up get over the boy who broke their hearts. It was only a few weeks before this book that I myself went through a break up, so somethings in the book helped me look at my situations a little differently.
I love that the authors were able to touch on a very important part of a teenagers break up. Sometimes girls just want it to be okay, go back to how things were and so they decide that they're not going to completely cut the boy out of their lives. Sometimes this isn't always a good things, but then there are the large cases when it is and everyone around the girl seems to be pushing her away from that idea. I like how they explored that with one of the parts of the book.
(this may be a SPOILER)Also I like how throughout the book Max is portrayed as a strong female character with no flaws, or rather she stays strong and hides her flaws, but throughout the novel she starts to realize she isn't as perfect and strong as she makes her clients think she is.
Overall I'm head-over-heels in love with Over You, and can't wait for Emma McLaughlin & Nicola Kraus's next masterpiece.
I picked up 'Over You' as an ARC and was over joyed to have their latest YA novel in my hands. I hadn't known what the book was about until I started reading it and once I knew I found the coincidence a bit funny.
In 'Over You' the main character Max Scott starts a sort of business who's goal is to help girls going through a bad break up get over the boy who broke their hearts. It was only a few weeks before this book that I myself went through a break up, so somethings in the book helped me look at my situations a little differently.
I love that the authors were able to touch on a very important part of a teenagers break up. Sometimes girls just want it to be okay, go back to how things were and so they decide that they're not going to completely cut the boy out of their lives. Sometimes this isn't always a good things, but then there are the large cases when it is and everyone around the girl seems to be pushing her away from that idea. I like how they explored that with one of the parts of the book.
(this may be a SPOILER)Also I like how throughout the book Max is portrayed as a strong female character with no flaws, or rather she stays strong and hides her flaws, but throughout the novel she starts to realize she isn't as perfect and strong as she makes her clients think she is.
Overall I'm head-over-heels in love with Over You, and can't wait for Emma McLaughlin & Nicola Kraus's next masterpiece.
May 12, 2015
Quirky, fun, and unique, this read shows one how to get over an Ex in just a couple of weeks...or so according to Max. Readers looking for a short, entertaining YA story would enjoy this novel. Overall 2.5/5 stars; didn't amaze me, but was an easy read.
April 4, 2017
such a fun read =D
November 7, 2017
Over You is a fun bubbly read. The story was very nicely wrote, and definitely a interesting read. The story captures a strong, determined female character who has a business that try’s to help girls get over their ex’s, but only to find herself in her own situation.
September 18, 2012
release date 8.21.12
MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT
Max has been moved almost every year of her life by her journalist mother who now decides she needs to put down roots in order to get into a good college, so she is shipped off to a posh boarding school This doesn't faze Max much since she is adept at joining the in crowd no matter where she ends up by being a chameleon with sure fire methods of adaptation. Except this time, Max has trouble making in roads with the snooty people that exist at St. Something.
No one gets her jokes or her, except one guy, and they instantly pair off into coupledom bliss. So when the guy dumps her, she survives by finding a way to capitalize on it and creates EX INC -- a system of survival for the newly dumped. With her two BFFs as employees, she embarks on a career to help out the newly single and herself in getting into NYU, the school of her dreams. Then her ex shows up in New York and all of Max's girl power suddenly takes a hit so she devises her own Moment to get over him once and for all. With the help of her two employees and new BFFs, Max takes on all of the guys who deal this blow to girls everywhere.
There is so much good about this story since it is full of discovering one's self worth and how that guy is just not that important in the big scheme of things. Most girls know exactly the feeling of an almost death when a break up occurs, so it is wonderful to see Max come into her own and build on that devastating issue while helping others find themselves again. Although Max drops out of high school to overcome the shame she feels at her own meltdown, she does pick herself up and builds on that event to create a new life for herself. That part did bug me, that she had to leave school because of this guy. Overall, this is the perfect antidote for any girl being down about a break up since it approaches it with humor and power. There isn't too much for parents to worry about except some kissing and a few instances of alcohol use.
MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT
Max has been moved almost every year of her life by her journalist mother who now decides she needs to put down roots in order to get into a good college, so she is shipped off to a posh boarding school This doesn't faze Max much since she is adept at joining the in crowd no matter where she ends up by being a chameleon with sure fire methods of adaptation. Except this time, Max has trouble making in roads with the snooty people that exist at St. Something.
No one gets her jokes or her, except one guy, and they instantly pair off into coupledom bliss. So when the guy dumps her, she survives by finding a way to capitalize on it and creates EX INC -- a system of survival for the newly dumped. With her two BFFs as employees, she embarks on a career to help out the newly single and herself in getting into NYU, the school of her dreams. Then her ex shows up in New York and all of Max's girl power suddenly takes a hit so she devises her own Moment to get over him once and for all. With the help of her two employees and new BFFs, Max takes on all of the guys who deal this blow to girls everywhere.
There is so much good about this story since it is full of discovering one's self worth and how that guy is just not that important in the big scheme of things. Most girls know exactly the feeling of an almost death when a break up occurs, so it is wonderful to see Max come into her own and build on that devastating issue while helping others find themselves again. Although Max drops out of high school to overcome the shame she feels at her own meltdown, she does pick herself up and builds on that event to create a new life for herself. That part did bug me, that she had to leave school because of this guy. Overall, this is the perfect antidote for any girl being down about a break up since it approaches it with humor and power. There isn't too much for parents to worry about except some kissing and a few instances of alcohol use.
July 7, 2012
This book was… wow. It had me focused on it for about 3 hours straight, and that’s all I needed to finish it. It follows the story of Max, who runs a breakup recovery program. You see what Max goes through on a daily basis and how she changes and learns what her program is all about. I loved this book. It wasn’t what I was expecting. It was a cute, quick, fun read!
Cover:
The cover is so cute! Everything about this book is cute! I love how they show a happy couple, and then suddenly the girl is all alone and in cover! It shows how she was okay, even after a relationship that looked like a good time.
Plot/Writing:
The writing was just okay. It was a little confusing at times and jumped from person to person POV’s. That became difficult to read at times when I would be reading a paragraph in Max’s POV and the next it would be in Ben’s or Taylor’s. Other than that, it was a good read. It really showed what it was like to have your heart broken and the recovery process.
Characters:
Max was amazing. She would swoop in a save you from depression. She was strong and confident, but at times stupid and a little naïve. There was times when I wanted to reach into the book and smack Max silly. She had too much going on to be completely happy and relaxed. It wasn’t until the end that I was like, “YES! NOW MAX IS EVEN MORE AMAZING!!!” Yes, I really did say that. Though quietly, because it’s three am and my family is asleep.
Ben is soo cute and super sweet! Every scene with Ben in it, I found myself swooning over him! He was like the perfect guy. Sure, he had his stupid moments and I had a mini freak out on Twitter, but it all worked out in the end! I loved Ben so much, and he reminds me of my best friend, and that just made me love him even more!
All in All:
How could this book end?! That was another fault there. I wanted to know all these things and it just ends. I hope that she does more with these characters and that it just doesn’t end there!
Cover:
The cover is so cute! Everything about this book is cute! I love how they show a happy couple, and then suddenly the girl is all alone and in cover! It shows how she was okay, even after a relationship that looked like a good time.
Plot/Writing:
The writing was just okay. It was a little confusing at times and jumped from person to person POV’s. That became difficult to read at times when I would be reading a paragraph in Max’s POV and the next it would be in Ben’s or Taylor’s. Other than that, it was a good read. It really showed what it was like to have your heart broken and the recovery process.
Characters:
Max was amazing. She would swoop in a save you from depression. She was strong and confident, but at times stupid and a little naïve. There was times when I wanted to reach into the book and smack Max silly. She had too much going on to be completely happy and relaxed. It wasn’t until the end that I was like, “YES! NOW MAX IS EVEN MORE AMAZING!!!” Yes, I really did say that. Though quietly, because it’s three am and my family is asleep.
Ben is soo cute and super sweet! Every scene with Ben in it, I found myself swooning over him! He was like the perfect guy. Sure, he had his stupid moments and I had a mini freak out on Twitter, but it all worked out in the end! I loved Ben so much, and he reminds me of my best friend, and that just made me love him even more!
All in All:
How could this book end?! That was another fault there. I wanted to know all these things and it just ends. I hope that she does more with these characters and that it just doesn’t end there!
July 23, 2012
I love a story of girl sticking together through heart ache. At first, I wasn't real sure how this self-made heart break guru is going help others. As I read the through the story, the author painted a bigger picture that what I saw.
What I enjoyed most about this story is the guru herself, Max. After a heart-break she had come up with methods to help the grieving process as well as the self esteem. I loved this parts the most. It showed Max's compassionate side to helps others what she had been through. She is devoted and loyal to every client. The profound affect she has as a person is amazing.
The best part about this story is the guru falling in love herself. She is totally blindsided by it, yet it made the story so much more entertaining. The way she fought her feelings, bottled them up, yet to to her "ah ha" moment is awesome. I like the way how things seem like it is all over when really it is just the beginning.
Over You is an powerful story that shows the in's and out's of heart ache. Alas, a great story of that is funny yet satisfying. Hugely appealing to teens everywhere, this is one book you don't want to miss.
What I enjoyed most about this story is the guru herself, Max. After a heart-break she had come up with methods to help the grieving process as well as the self esteem. I loved this parts the most. It showed Max's compassionate side to helps others what she had been through. She is devoted and loyal to every client. The profound affect she has as a person is amazing.
The best part about this story is the guru falling in love herself. She is totally blindsided by it, yet it made the story so much more entertaining. The way she fought her feelings, bottled them up, yet to to her "ah ha" moment is awesome. I like the way how things seem like it is all over when really it is just the beginning.
Over You is an powerful story that shows the in's and out's of heart ache. Alas, a great story of that is funny yet satisfying. Hugely appealing to teens everywhere, this is one book you don't want to miss.
September 20, 2012
2.5
Meh. I think my time with these authors is drawing to a close. I don't know why I keep getting sucked into their books! Their writing style is so easy and fast-paced, but I'm usually disappointed in the end.
Over You was ok. It is a cute idea and a cute book. Max is a 17 year-old girl living in New York and running her own break-up recovery business. When a girl has been dumped and is heartbroken, she swoops in with steps to get the girl over that boy and on with her life. The problem is that she isn't over her own ex, Hugo the 30th (or whatever) of a powerful Boston family. Hugo breaking her heart is the reason she left her boarding school without finishing. She has her eyes set on NYU to study under her idol and is preparing a presentation of her business hoping it will help her get in, when she finds out that Hugo has moved to NY and is planning on attending NYU, as well. Cute boy, Ben, is also on the scene. How will it end???
This book is fluffly fun, but some of the sentences had me cringing, like "she has no idea how beautiful she is" (I'm paraphrasing because I don't have the book with me, but seriously cheesy shit like that). The last sentence had me rolling my eyes so hard I thought they were going to pop out of my head. I liked Max, her two employees--her gay best friend, Zach and periphery girl, Pheobe--I liked Ben and the connected story of his friend Taylor and his recent-ex, Bridget. I liked the idea of the book, and it was a mildly entertaining way to spend a few lunch breaks, but nothing more than that.
Meh. I think my time with these authors is drawing to a close. I don't know why I keep getting sucked into their books! Their writing style is so easy and fast-paced, but I'm usually disappointed in the end.
Over You was ok. It is a cute idea and a cute book. Max is a 17 year-old girl living in New York and running her own break-up recovery business. When a girl has been dumped and is heartbroken, she swoops in with steps to get the girl over that boy and on with her life. The problem is that she isn't over her own ex, Hugo the 30th (or whatever) of a powerful Boston family. Hugo breaking her heart is the reason she left her boarding school without finishing. She has her eyes set on NYU to study under her idol and is preparing a presentation of her business hoping it will help her get in, when she finds out that Hugo has moved to NY and is planning on attending NYU, as well. Cute boy, Ben, is also on the scene. How will it end???
This book is fluffly fun, but some of the sentences had me cringing, like "she has no idea how beautiful she is" (I'm paraphrasing because I don't have the book with me, but seriously cheesy shit like that). The last sentence had me rolling my eyes so hard I thought they were going to pop out of my head. I liked Max, her two employees--her gay best friend, Zach and periphery girl, Pheobe--I liked Ben and the connected story of his friend Taylor and his recent-ex, Bridget. I liked the idea of the book, and it was a mildly entertaining way to spend a few lunch breaks, but nothing more than that.
September 29, 2015
Over You is about seventeen year old Max who believes she has found the perfect cure to heartbreak. After a certain boy leaves Max in despair, sobbing on the floor, she decides it's about time that the world - who is so advanced in other areas - has a cure for something that everybody faces at some point in their lives. And so EX, Inc is born. Max has the perfect solution to remedy heartbreak and with her company's 100% success rate, she intends to make it global. However, Max's world is thrown off-kilter and her confidence fades when she spots her ex roaming around her city and discovers he'll be attending the same university as her next year. Suddenly, when the sight of him throws her head into a spin, Max realises that she's not 100% over him. Can she follow her own advice and get completely and truly over him?
I really liked Max, she was funny and snarky and I loved the fact that she took her terrible experiences and turned it into a learning experience, turned it into something positive to help others. But gosh, that doesn't mean that there weren't times I wanted to slap some sense into her because sometimes she could be really stupid. Maybe it was to send the message that even the seemingly most strongest and perfect of people can mess up but UGH, she risked her business and everything she stood for to go down a road that she knew would lead to nowhere and end very shortly - I yelled at her a lot. But she didn't listen. Typical.
Also, I didn't exactly sympathise with Max about her ex, Hugo, because he seemed to have NO admirable qualities. We also never actually saw what made Max fall in love with Hugo because there was no show and just tell, so I really feel like, to gauge more sympathy and understanding from readers, Max and Hugo's relationship should have been explored more in depth!
The supporting characters; Zach, Phoebe, Bridget and Taylor were okay. I don't really have any specific feelings towards them, they were just there...ya know? I like how they stuck by Max (mostly) even when her brain stopped functioning, but otherwise I don't have any strong feelings towards them, but I don't think we're really supposed to, SO TIS OKAY.
BEN!!! I love him. He was so charming, kind and polite, not to mention hardworking! I also like how although he's terrified of stepping out of his comfort zone and upsetting friends/family, he does what makes him happy and I was just like RESPECT. Also, the fact that he actually listens to Max after what she did to him was amazing. He totally deserves someone better. Like me *cough*.
I liked the romance and I shipped Ben and Max but I felt like there was an immediate switch from being acquaintances to being in a relationship. Not exactly insta-love but once they were friends of some sort, it was an abrupt transition.
I also found the writing style quite odd. Like, it was a really easy read but the way some sentences were structured just didn't flow smoothly at all and I often had to reread certain parts because of the way some things were phrased so that was blegh.
Another thing that didn't really resonate with me was how absent Max's parents were. They let her drop out of school because she broke up with her boyfriend. Who she had only known for five months. WHO DOES THAT??! Like, loads of people go through breakups that doesn't mean you give up your education. If she was really so heartbroken, she could've at least done homeschooling but to just completely drop out of school, why?? Also, it's great that she started a business and all but her parents didn't even know about that. Like didn't they wonder what she was doing with her time? SHE COULD'VE BEEN DEALING DRUGS, for heavens sake, I mean she wasn't BUT STILL. She's seventeen. Oh, the incompetence!
Overall, Over You was a quick, lighthearted read that was laugh-out-loud funny (my parents now officially think I'm mad. Oops). I loved the concept of this book and had the romance been fleshed out further and the characters not as stupid as they were, I may have enjoyed this slightly more. This book is complete fluff, so if you're looking for a deep, insightful book then you're better off reading something else. But it's really funny. And Ben is adorable. So if you're looking for a sweet book to pass the time, then read this!
I give it: 3.5 CUPCAKES!
I really liked Max, she was funny and snarky and I loved the fact that she took her terrible experiences and turned it into a learning experience, turned it into something positive to help others. But gosh, that doesn't mean that there weren't times I wanted to slap some sense into her because sometimes she could be really stupid. Maybe it was to send the message that even the seemingly most strongest and perfect of people can mess up but UGH, she risked her business and everything she stood for to go down a road that she knew would lead to nowhere and end very shortly - I yelled at her a lot. But she didn't listen. Typical.
Also, I didn't exactly sympathise with Max about her ex, Hugo, because he seemed to have NO admirable qualities. We also never actually saw what made Max fall in love with Hugo because there was no show and just tell, so I really feel like, to gauge more sympathy and understanding from readers, Max and Hugo's relationship should have been explored more in depth!
The supporting characters; Zach, Phoebe, Bridget and Taylor were okay. I don't really have any specific feelings towards them, they were just there...ya know? I like how they stuck by Max (mostly) even when her brain stopped functioning, but otherwise I don't have any strong feelings towards them, but I don't think we're really supposed to, SO TIS OKAY.
BEN!!! I love him. He was so charming, kind and polite, not to mention hardworking! I also like how although he's terrified of stepping out of his comfort zone and upsetting friends/family, he does what makes him happy and I was just like RESPECT. Also, the fact that he actually listens to Max after what she did to him was amazing. He totally deserves someone better. Like me *cough*.
I liked the romance and I shipped Ben and Max but I felt like there was an immediate switch from being acquaintances to being in a relationship. Not exactly insta-love but once they were friends of some sort, it was an abrupt transition.
I also found the writing style quite odd. Like, it was a really easy read but the way some sentences were structured just didn't flow smoothly at all and I often had to reread certain parts because of the way some things were phrased so that was blegh.
Another thing that didn't really resonate with me was how absent Max's parents were. They let her drop out of school because she broke up with her boyfriend. Who she had only known for five months. WHO DOES THAT??! Like, loads of people go through breakups that doesn't mean you give up your education. If she was really so heartbroken, she could've at least done homeschooling but to just completely drop out of school, why?? Also, it's great that she started a business and all but her parents didn't even know about that. Like didn't they wonder what she was doing with her time? SHE COULD'VE BEEN DEALING DRUGS, for heavens sake, I mean she wasn't BUT STILL. She's seventeen. Oh, the incompetence!
Overall, Over You was a quick, lighthearted read that was laugh-out-loud funny (my parents now officially think I'm mad. Oops). I loved the concept of this book and had the romance been fleshed out further and the characters not as stupid as they were, I may have enjoyed this slightly more. This book is complete fluff, so if you're looking for a deep, insightful book then you're better off reading something else. But it's really funny. And Ben is adorable. So if you're looking for a sweet book to pass the time, then read this!
I give it: 3.5 CUPCAKES!
August 17, 2012
THIS REVIEW ON B'S BOOK BLOG!
How is it that civilization evolved the ability to shuttle someone to the moon, but other than capturing its excruciating details in every medium, it hadn't come up with anything to guide women through heartbreak?
This is a story about a 17-year-old girl, Max Scott, who runs a company of her own called Ex, Inc. With the help of Max's two friends, the company helps girls all over New York get over their exes. So far Max is the guru of heartbreak, until she sees Hugo Tillman, the guy who dumped her years ago, in the neighborhood. And then this proves to her that she isn't really as over him as she thinks she is.
I liked the idea of this book. I thought it was very promising and that it would be a fun read. And in a way, it is. I expected it to be a YA novel, but it turns out to be chick lit with YA characters. Now, my experience with chick lit novels in the past has told me that I don't tend to like them that much --there are only a few chick lit books that I have given the maximum of 4 stars to. And while I liked Over You enough, there are some things in the book that kept me from fully enjoying it.
In the very beginning, I had a problem getting into it. To begin with, I'm not really a big fan of third-person omniscient narration in chick lit, and this is exactly how the book is narrated. What's more, the run-on sentences (some are 7 lines long!) with lots of punctuation marks make me constantly lose track of what's being said. This wasn't fun. The progress was slow and I was annoyed more than anything. But after a quarter of the book, it became less difficult for me. I'm not sure if this was because I'd already got used to it or the writing really was better. Still, I wasn't impressed with the writing, to say the least.
There are many ways the book could have been better. Especially in the character department. While they're fun to read about, they don't have much depth. I didn't feel connected to any of the characters. Max is a good character, but I'm not sure if I liked her. She's portrayed as strong, confident, and someone who knows exactly what she's doing and doesn't let anyone mess with her. But years ago, she's been broken too. Max's breakup with Hugo, as revealed later in the book, is very miserable and involves goose shit. I liked how she thinks she's fine until Hugo comes back into her life again and she loses her cool. That's as realistic as a relationship can get. But I don't like the way the book makes Hugo a jerk. I mean, Max is seriously not over him and she loves him so much still, and when they have another shot, the writers decide to make him the biggest asshole ever so that she realizes he's not for her and so she can easily make a decision to go back to her present love interest and easily get over Hugo. What I'm trying to say is, after all the crying and pining, if he's really that much of a jerk, how come she doesn't realize it until now? But that's not the point. The point is that I find it a very bad plot device -- one that weakens the conflict in the story and makes everything too easy. Hugo is an important character because he makes all that Max think she is come crashing down. Hugo could've had much more depth to his character and be used to make Max doubt herself even more before she finally gets over him, which would make the story much more powerful.
Bottom line: Over You has a very promising idea and is a light and fun read, but it could have been much better.
I received the digital version of this book from Edelweiss and the publisher for review.
How is it that civilization evolved the ability to shuttle someone to the moon, but other than capturing its excruciating details in every medium, it hadn't come up with anything to guide women through heartbreak?
This is a story about a 17-year-old girl, Max Scott, who runs a company of her own called Ex, Inc. With the help of Max's two friends, the company helps girls all over New York get over their exes. So far Max is the guru of heartbreak, until she sees Hugo Tillman, the guy who dumped her years ago, in the neighborhood. And then this proves to her that she isn't really as over him as she thinks she is.
I liked the idea of this book. I thought it was very promising and that it would be a fun read. And in a way, it is. I expected it to be a YA novel, but it turns out to be chick lit with YA characters. Now, my experience with chick lit novels in the past has told me that I don't tend to like them that much --there are only a few chick lit books that I have given the maximum of 4 stars to. And while I liked Over You enough, there are some things in the book that kept me from fully enjoying it.
In the very beginning, I had a problem getting into it. To begin with, I'm not really a big fan of third-person omniscient narration in chick lit, and this is exactly how the book is narrated. What's more, the run-on sentences (some are 7 lines long!) with lots of punctuation marks make me constantly lose track of what's being said. This wasn't fun. The progress was slow and I was annoyed more than anything. But after a quarter of the book, it became less difficult for me. I'm not sure if this was because I'd already got used to it or the writing really was better. Still, I wasn't impressed with the writing, to say the least.
There are many ways the book could have been better. Especially in the character department. While they're fun to read about, they don't have much depth. I didn't feel connected to any of the characters. Max is a good character, but I'm not sure if I liked her. She's portrayed as strong, confident, and someone who knows exactly what she's doing and doesn't let anyone mess with her. But years ago, she's been broken too. Max's breakup with Hugo, as revealed later in the book, is very miserable and involves goose shit. I liked how she thinks she's fine until Hugo comes back into her life again and she loses her cool. That's as realistic as a relationship can get. But I don't like the way the book makes Hugo a jerk. I mean, Max is seriously not over him and she loves him so much still, and when they have another shot, the writers decide to make him the biggest asshole ever so that she realizes he's not for her and so she can easily make a decision to go back to her present love interest and easily get over Hugo. What I'm trying to say is, after all the crying and pining, if he's really that much of a jerk, how come she doesn't realize it until now? But that's not the point. The point is that I find it a very bad plot device -- one that weakens the conflict in the story and makes everything too easy. Hugo is an important character because he makes all that Max think she is come crashing down. Hugo could've had much more depth to his character and be used to make Max doubt herself even more before she finally gets over him, which would make the story much more powerful.
Bottom line: Over You has a very promising idea and is a light and fun read, but it could have been much better.
I received the digital version of this book from Edelweiss and the publisher for review.
May 20, 2012
Over You is a quick, adorably funny read about friendships, relationships and finding what makes oneself truly happy!
Max was a fan-freaking-tastic main character! I loved everything about this girl; her personality, sense of humor, style and I especially loved her entrepreneur skillz! Her business is seriously the best thing ever! Broken hearted? Bummed about it? Max has got the fix! She’ll get you over your ex so fast you won’t even remember why you liked him in the first place! She’ll also make sure that you have your “Moment.”—where you show your ex you're better off without him and where he’ll wish he would’ve never dumped you in the first place! It’s basically a fool-proof system.
You see, Max along with her best friends/cohorts, Zach and Phoebe, run Ex Inc. a completely free (cookie and brownie donations accepted!) service that helps girls through the many stages of a break up. Max goes by referrals only and comes armed with chocolate, a dash of alcohol and a sleeping aid—the girl is seriously prepared for any situation. Her most recent client, Bridget, is having a hard time getting over her skateboarding ex and proves to be one of Max’s more difficult cases. Kinda like the Angie Riverdale case *shudders* Let’s just say that one involved mix tapes, torn tights and a walk of shame in the rain…poor girl.
The reason Max does all this is because she knows what it’s like to be dumped. And heartbroken. And lonely. And depressed. And part of the reason she helps other girls get over their exes is because she never really got over her’s. That is….until she meets Ben.
Ben Cooper, delivery boy for Cooper Baby, shows up at Max’s apartment with a crib in tow ready to drop it off and bolt. But when Ben meets Max, he has other ideas. *SUH-WOON* Ben is SO adorable and SUCH a cutie and also a TOTAL flirt! If Max doesn’t want him, send him my way!! <3
One of the main things I loved about this story was that Ben’s POV was included! The whole book actually rotates through most of the characters! Granted they were small snippets compared to Max’s voice, but it was still cool to be able to get a glimpse into so many characters thoughts!
Anyway, between dealing with other clients, trying to help Bridget reach her “Moment” and stressing about college, Max stays pretty busy and doesn’t really have time for a new boyfriend. Max also doesn’t deal with her own issues and keeps them bottled up—which causes a stain in all of her own relationships. Her best friend Zach confronts her about it (he was awesome and hilarious) but she doesn’t budge. Stubborn girl!
I seriously idolized Max so hardcore—she seemed to have it all together—until she ran into Hugo, her ex.
Max had, what they like to call at Ex Inc., a relapse. After Hugo shows up she makes some horrible decisions and hurts a lot of people in the process. I was so…not disappointed…but, like, completely let down by her. It was one of those moments where you kinda like deflate and say, “aww, man…she used to be perfect.” Or at least that’s what it was like for me. (Isn’t it so awesome that you can connect with a character so much that they have the power to let you down!? I love that.)
So any who! Does Max reach her “Moment?” And what happens with Ben? You need to PICK UP THIS BOOK to find out!! Over You hooked me from the very first sentence and captivated me until the very last! I would recommend this book to everyone!
SEQUEL PLEASE!!?! <3
Max was a fan-freaking-tastic main character! I loved everything about this girl; her personality, sense of humor, style and I especially loved her entrepreneur skillz! Her business is seriously the best thing ever! Broken hearted? Bummed about it? Max has got the fix! She’ll get you over your ex so fast you won’t even remember why you liked him in the first place! She’ll also make sure that you have your “Moment.”—where you show your ex you're better off without him and where he’ll wish he would’ve never dumped you in the first place! It’s basically a fool-proof system.
You see, Max along with her best friends/cohorts, Zach and Phoebe, run Ex Inc. a completely free (cookie and brownie donations accepted!) service that helps girls through the many stages of a break up. Max goes by referrals only and comes armed with chocolate, a dash of alcohol and a sleeping aid—the girl is seriously prepared for any situation. Her most recent client, Bridget, is having a hard time getting over her skateboarding ex and proves to be one of Max’s more difficult cases. Kinda like the Angie Riverdale case *shudders* Let’s just say that one involved mix tapes, torn tights and a walk of shame in the rain…poor girl.
The reason Max does all this is because she knows what it’s like to be dumped. And heartbroken. And lonely. And depressed. And part of the reason she helps other girls get over their exes is because she never really got over her’s. That is….until she meets Ben.
Ben Cooper, delivery boy for Cooper Baby, shows up at Max’s apartment with a crib in tow ready to drop it off and bolt. But when Ben meets Max, he has other ideas. *SUH-WOON* Ben is SO adorable and SUCH a cutie and also a TOTAL flirt! If Max doesn’t want him, send him my way!! <3
One of the main things I loved about this story was that Ben’s POV was included! The whole book actually rotates through most of the characters! Granted they were small snippets compared to Max’s voice, but it was still cool to be able to get a glimpse into so many characters thoughts!
Anyway, between dealing with other clients, trying to help Bridget reach her “Moment” and stressing about college, Max stays pretty busy and doesn’t really have time for a new boyfriend. Max also doesn’t deal with her own issues and keeps them bottled up—which causes a stain in all of her own relationships. Her best friend Zach confronts her about it (he was awesome and hilarious) but she doesn’t budge. Stubborn girl!
I seriously idolized Max so hardcore—she seemed to have it all together—until she ran into Hugo, her ex.
Max had, what they like to call at Ex Inc., a relapse. After Hugo shows up she makes some horrible decisions and hurts a lot of people in the process. I was so…not disappointed…but, like, completely let down by her. It was one of those moments where you kinda like deflate and say, “aww, man…she used to be perfect.” Or at least that’s what it was like for me. (Isn’t it so awesome that you can connect with a character so much that they have the power to let you down!? I love that.)
So any who! Does Max reach her “Moment?” And what happens with Ben? You need to PICK UP THIS BOOK to find out!! Over You hooked me from the very first sentence and captivated me until the very last! I would recommend this book to everyone!
SEQUEL PLEASE!!?! <3
August 26, 2012
I was really hoping that Over You would be a great book, when I had read the description I thought it sounded like it could be good. I was really expecting some things to be different than what they actually where though, and I was really disappointed with the way things played out. As far as the writing goes, it was decent. Not the best I have seen, but it was enjoyable from that aspect.
I had so many issues with the story once I actually started reading it. When I started this book, I thought it was going to be about a girl that was able to get over a bad relationship and use that to help other teen girls be able to overcome the heartbreaks they go through. Isn't that what you get from reading the description to? Well, I was really deceived by the description and wasn't really expecting what you actually get. You still have Max and her friends helping other girls, but my main issue was with Max and her relationship with Hugo which is the one she was supposedly suppose to be getting over. I got so incredibly annoyed when Max would pull out her box of "Hugo Memories" and sit there and cry her brains out over this guy. And she is suppose to be helping these other girls get over their broken hearts? It just didn't really play together very well.
I didn't really care for the characters in this book either. Zach and Ben were probably two of the better characters. But Max was easily one of the most annoying female characters I have seen in a book. I can understand having trouble getting over something, but why would you continue to bring up old memories when she knows it's just going to make her curl up in a ball and cry? Doesn't make sense to me. I was really hoping for something more, I just think things took such a negative path. It would of been so much better if it was like I had originally thought where she had actually got over Hugo and was just using that experience to help these girls. Having Hugo show up should of never caused the mess that takes place.
I just honestly can't think of to many redeeming factors for this book. There were moments I really enjoyed it, which is the only reason I would warrant a three stars. But there were other moments I just wanted to put it down and walk away. One of the most redeeming factors though was the ending, I did really like how things turned out for Max. And surprisingly, she was a lot less annoying at the end of the book. I just really wish that would of happened earlier on, and that things didn't play out the way they did. She could of handled Hugo in a much better way than she did.
I'm really on the fence about if I'd recommend this book or not. While I am sure there are people that will enjoy it, it just really didn't do it for me. I tried my best to enjoy it, but it got to a point where it became a chore to finish. If it wasn't for the moments I did enjoy throughout it, I wouldn't of even gave it three stars. But those few moments where I really got into the story were a lot of fun. I just wish there would of been more focus put on Max helping the other girls and actually getting over Hugo, rather than having Max dive head first into a state of pity whenever she thought about him. I just can't help but think she could of handled things so much better, and in turn made the book that much more enjoyable to read. So I will leave this one up to you, if it sounds like a book you want to read then go for it.
I had so many issues with the story once I actually started reading it. When I started this book, I thought it was going to be about a girl that was able to get over a bad relationship and use that to help other teen girls be able to overcome the heartbreaks they go through. Isn't that what you get from reading the description to? Well, I was really deceived by the description and wasn't really expecting what you actually get. You still have Max and her friends helping other girls, but my main issue was with Max and her relationship with Hugo which is the one she was supposedly suppose to be getting over. I got so incredibly annoyed when Max would pull out her box of "Hugo Memories" and sit there and cry her brains out over this guy. And she is suppose to be helping these other girls get over their broken hearts? It just didn't really play together very well.
I didn't really care for the characters in this book either. Zach and Ben were probably two of the better characters. But Max was easily one of the most annoying female characters I have seen in a book. I can understand having trouble getting over something, but why would you continue to bring up old memories when she knows it's just going to make her curl up in a ball and cry? Doesn't make sense to me. I was really hoping for something more, I just think things took such a negative path. It would of been so much better if it was like I had originally thought where she had actually got over Hugo and was just using that experience to help these girls. Having Hugo show up should of never caused the mess that takes place.
I just honestly can't think of to many redeeming factors for this book. There were moments I really enjoyed it, which is the only reason I would warrant a three stars. But there were other moments I just wanted to put it down and walk away. One of the most redeeming factors though was the ending, I did really like how things turned out for Max. And surprisingly, she was a lot less annoying at the end of the book. I just really wish that would of happened earlier on, and that things didn't play out the way they did. She could of handled Hugo in a much better way than she did.
I'm really on the fence about if I'd recommend this book or not. While I am sure there are people that will enjoy it, it just really didn't do it for me. I tried my best to enjoy it, but it got to a point where it became a chore to finish. If it wasn't for the moments I did enjoy throughout it, I wouldn't of even gave it three stars. But those few moments where I really got into the story were a lot of fun. I just wish there would of been more focus put on Max helping the other girls and actually getting over Hugo, rather than having Max dive head first into a state of pity whenever she thought about him. I just can't help but think she could of handled things so much better, and in turn made the book that much more enjoyable to read. So I will leave this one up to you, if it sounds like a book you want to read then go for it.
January 1, 2016
In general, this was a cute book, but I can’t decide if the cuteness outweighs the issues I have with it.
Issue #1 ~ Theft, which Max tries to explain away (she’s just “borrowing” without permission). And not just small things – designer clothes. Thousands of dollars worth.
Issue #2 ~ Max is a hypocrite. Big time. She’s preaching to these brokenhearted girls about how to move on but not taking her own advice. Worse, she refuses to talk to anyone – even her best friend, Zach – about her own heartbreak.
Issue #3 ~ She’s in New York City and does things that I’m sure cost TONS (especially in NYC). Where’s she getting the money for this stuff? I know she’s had some donations from previous “clients” but eventually that’s got to run out. Sure, she’s not buying clothes (see above), but other things cost, too.
Issue #4 ~ Max supposedly has connections just about everywhere because of her past clients. I find it hard to believe that these clients’ parents would do some of the things they’ve done simply because she helped their daughters get through a breakup.
Issue #5 ~ While there’s not much of it, what little sex there is in the book is treated so casually that it gives me pause. I should make it clear that it’s just implied, not actually “shown” – which I do appreciate. I’m having a hard time verbalizing my thoughts on this, but I wouldn’t want my teenage daughters reading this simply because I don’t want them taking sex so casually.
There are other things, but my mind is mush now, so I’ll leave it at that. Despite that, the story is cute, and it reads quickly. I liked the third-person perspective going between Max, Ben, Taylor, and even Zach (if I’m remembering correctly on that last one) on occasion. I especially liked seeing Taylor’s perspective – the other side of these cases.
I was expecting more humor. The synopsis I’d read before starting the book made me expect it. I think I might have smiled and/or chuckled a few times, but no outright laughter from me. It’s not hugely disappointing, not even when I realize that it was the reason I decided to give the book a try.
So, would I recommend this? No. I don’t think so. I didn’t dislike it, per say. Just didn’t really like it, either. I definitely don’t think I’ll pick this one up again.
Issue #1 ~ Theft, which Max tries to explain away (she’s just “borrowing” without permission). And not just small things – designer clothes. Thousands of dollars worth.
Issue #2 ~ Max is a hypocrite. Big time. She’s preaching to these brokenhearted girls about how to move on but not taking her own advice. Worse, she refuses to talk to anyone – even her best friend, Zach – about her own heartbreak.
Issue #3 ~ She’s in New York City and does things that I’m sure cost TONS (especially in NYC). Where’s she getting the money for this stuff? I know she’s had some donations from previous “clients” but eventually that’s got to run out. Sure, she’s not buying clothes (see above), but other things cost, too.
Issue #4 ~ Max supposedly has connections just about everywhere because of her past clients. I find it hard to believe that these clients’ parents would do some of the things they’ve done simply because she helped their daughters get through a breakup.
Issue #5 ~ While there’s not much of it, what little sex there is in the book is treated so casually that it gives me pause. I should make it clear that it’s just implied, not actually “shown” – which I do appreciate. I’m having a hard time verbalizing my thoughts on this, but I wouldn’t want my teenage daughters reading this simply because I don’t want them taking sex so casually.
There are other things, but my mind is mush now, so I’ll leave it at that. Despite that, the story is cute, and it reads quickly. I liked the third-person perspective going between Max, Ben, Taylor, and even Zach (if I’m remembering correctly on that last one) on occasion. I especially liked seeing Taylor’s perspective – the other side of these cases.
I was expecting more humor. The synopsis I’d read before starting the book made me expect it. I think I might have smiled and/or chuckled a few times, but no outright laughter from me. It’s not hugely disappointing, not even when I realize that it was the reason I decided to give the book a try.
So, would I recommend this? No. I don’t think so. I didn’t dislike it, per say. Just didn’t really like it, either. I definitely don’t think I’ll pick this one up again.
May 26, 2012
My Thoughts: We’ve all been dumped and if you haven’t, lucky you! It makes us stronger, eventually, it makes us open our eyes to want we want in a relationship.
We are introduced to Max who was in love with Hugo. Perfect Hugo in her eyes. He noticed her, he made her feel good, he appreciated her, until he didn’t anymore. Max got dumped. She couldn’t handle it, so she moved to a new city, dropped out of school, and started her own business.
She helps girls get over their ex’s. Simple enough, right? Sure she has her own problems but she puts them aside to help these poor girls. Her latest client is Bridgett. Bridgett’s ex lives across the street from her. And he’s friends with a boy named Ben. Of course Max ends up meeting this Ben, and things go haywire from there.
She starts to feel something special for one guy, but then her ex Hugo enters the picture again. Max has a lot of decisions to make, and quickly. She can’t let her guard down, and she can’t lose her business.
I don’t even know what to say about Over You. Was it fluff? Yeah, kinda. Did it also have important messages? Sure, in a way. Did I like Hugo? Uh No!! What about Ben? Yes, he was really funny! Did I like her techniques used to get over guys? Yep! Most of them are things I’d do. Get rid of his belongings, make sure to have your “moment.” A lot of the ideas Max has, I can see myself doing.
I did like all the characters from Max’s clients to Max best friend to her non existent family.
Overall: Over You was a cute fun read. I wouldn’t say it will make everyone's favorites of the year but it will probably really appeal to some, which includes me. This would be a perfect book to read after a breakup. I had a hard time actually starting this one though, I picked it up 2-3 times, read the first few pages, then put it down and did it again. Finally, I told myself to just read it already and see if you like it! Over You was an entertaining read and I’m glad I read it!
Cover: Like it! Totally love the picture slide! I think this cover looks fun!
What I'd Give It: 4/5 Cupcakes
______________________
Taken From Princess Bookie
www.princessbookie.com
We are introduced to Max who was in love with Hugo. Perfect Hugo in her eyes. He noticed her, he made her feel good, he appreciated her, until he didn’t anymore. Max got dumped. She couldn’t handle it, so she moved to a new city, dropped out of school, and started her own business.
She helps girls get over their ex’s. Simple enough, right? Sure she has her own problems but she puts them aside to help these poor girls. Her latest client is Bridgett. Bridgett’s ex lives across the street from her. And he’s friends with a boy named Ben. Of course Max ends up meeting this Ben, and things go haywire from there.
She starts to feel something special for one guy, but then her ex Hugo enters the picture again. Max has a lot of decisions to make, and quickly. She can’t let her guard down, and she can’t lose her business.
I don’t even know what to say about Over You. Was it fluff? Yeah, kinda. Did it also have important messages? Sure, in a way. Did I like Hugo? Uh No!! What about Ben? Yes, he was really funny! Did I like her techniques used to get over guys? Yep! Most of them are things I’d do. Get rid of his belongings, make sure to have your “moment.” A lot of the ideas Max has, I can see myself doing.
I did like all the characters from Max’s clients to Max best friend to her non existent family.
Overall: Over You was a cute fun read. I wouldn’t say it will make everyone's favorites of the year but it will probably really appeal to some, which includes me. This would be a perfect book to read after a breakup. I had a hard time actually starting this one though, I picked it up 2-3 times, read the first few pages, then put it down and did it again. Finally, I told myself to just read it already and see if you like it! Over You was an entertaining read and I’m glad I read it!
Cover: Like it! Totally love the picture slide! I think this cover looks fun!
What I'd Give It: 4/5 Cupcakes
______________________
Taken From Princess Bookie
www.princessbookie.com
May 30, 2012
I love love love this cover! It's what made me want to read this book in the first place, followed by the blurb.
This is the first book I've read that's by Emma and Nicola, I wasn't aware that they wrote The Nanny Diaries until I started reading this but it made me all the more excited to read this.
Over You, for the most part, is the story of Max who after getting her heart broken, moves to New York and starts a company called Ex Inc. that helps girls after their brutal break-up and pick up the pieces again. Max has perfected, for lack of a better word, a system that helps girls get over their ex-boyfriends and become happy again.
Okay, to start with, we all know break-ups suck, irrespective of who does the dumping. If you're not over the guy, it's so freaking hard to even wake up every morning and get through the day. Emma and Nicola have nailed that feeling in this book. Max's usual speech that she gives to her clients is pretty much what every girl needs to hear when she's going through a break-up.
However, I have to say that although I enjoyed most of the book, I found it a little hard to get into the writing style. Maybe it's just me. It was told from a third person's POV and that didn't allow me to get to know the characters as well as I would've liked or get involved in the story as much . Also, there were a lot of plot holes that made the book a tad unrealistic. I think Over You would've worked better as chick lit where Max is an adult woman and not a teenager.
I liked Bridget and Taylor's story, Max's past and her friends. Most of the characters were likable and like I said, the post-break up feeling couldn't have been said any better. I adored the ending - the part with Max's interview. Honestly, Over You has its good and bad moments - when it was good, it was really good and when it went bad..it was pretty random. That being said, over all this was a cute, fun and a quick read. It's perfect for anyone who has just had a break up and needs to know that there's a happy ending.
This is the first book I've read that's by Emma and Nicola, I wasn't aware that they wrote The Nanny Diaries until I started reading this but it made me all the more excited to read this.
Over You, for the most part, is the story of Max who after getting her heart broken, moves to New York and starts a company called Ex Inc. that helps girls after their brutal break-up and pick up the pieces again. Max has perfected, for lack of a better word, a system that helps girls get over their ex-boyfriends and become happy again.
Okay, to start with, we all know break-ups suck, irrespective of who does the dumping. If you're not over the guy, it's so freaking hard to even wake up every morning and get through the day. Emma and Nicola have nailed that feeling in this book. Max's usual speech that she gives to her clients is pretty much what every girl needs to hear when she's going through a break-up.
However, I have to say that although I enjoyed most of the book, I found it a little hard to get into the writing style. Maybe it's just me. It was told from a third person's POV and that didn't allow me to get to know the characters as well as I would've liked or get involved in the story as much . Also, there were a lot of plot holes that made the book a tad unrealistic. I think Over You would've worked better as chick lit where Max is an adult woman and not a teenager.
I liked Bridget and Taylor's story, Max's past and her friends. Most of the characters were likable and like I said, the post-break up feeling couldn't have been said any better. I adored the ending - the part with Max's interview. Honestly, Over You has its good and bad moments - when it was good, it was really good and when it went bad..it was pretty random. That being said, over all this was a cute, fun and a quick read. It's perfect for anyone who has just had a break up and needs to know that there's a happy ending.
August 11, 2024
Is this the type of book that I usually read? NO
Did I enjoy it? MORE THAN YES
So here is the review:
So, let me start off by saying that I felt so many emotions during this book I laughed my ass off, got sad, got REALLY angry at Max, and overall just had a fantastic time.
Max is a girl who has started a business called Ex Inc. to help girls get over their ex-boyfriends, she runs this business with her two best friends Zach and Pheobe. Max started this business because her ex-boyfriend Hugo “dumped” her… well sort of not really. You’ll understand when you read. So Max’s business is runny smoothly and is working like magic until she tries the system with Bridget. Bridget and her boyfriend have been friends since they were born; they live next door, and did EVERYTHING together. But as Max says… she likes a challenge. OH BOY, a challenge this is.
Max’s mom just happens to be out one day and Ben Cooper the delivery guy for Cooper Baby brings by a crib to put together and when him and Max see each other it’s INSTANT sparks! Ben is so freaking adorable… *SIGH* I wish there were more guys like him around. He is a subtle flirter which I love because he’s not TOO forward… and I know for a fact that Max likes it too!
Max runs into a BIG major problem when she runs into her ex-boyfriend Hugo… because she hasn’t gotten over him yet. When her friends find out they try to help her but Max doesn’t want to admit her weakness to them so she acts as if nothing is wrong and gets herself into trouble because of her pride. I could TOTALLY relate to Max though I mean if I ran a major business helping girls get over their exes and I hadn’t gotten over mine yet… I DEFINITELY wouldn’t want to talk about it.
For this book I’ll say it gets worse before it gets better and you WILL feel like shaking some sense into Max because (OH MAN I can’t tell you). Just read it and find out.. you have to find out if she ends up with Ben or not! So glad I gave this book a chance.
Book provided by Southern Book Blogger ARC Tours, in exchange for an honest review.
Did I enjoy it? MORE THAN YES
So here is the review:
So, let me start off by saying that I felt so many emotions during this book I laughed my ass off, got sad, got REALLY angry at Max, and overall just had a fantastic time.
Max is a girl who has started a business called Ex Inc. to help girls get over their ex-boyfriends, she runs this business with her two best friends Zach and Pheobe. Max started this business because her ex-boyfriend Hugo “dumped” her… well sort of not really. You’ll understand when you read. So Max’s business is runny smoothly and is working like magic until she tries the system with Bridget. Bridget and her boyfriend have been friends since they were born; they live next door, and did EVERYTHING together. But as Max says… she likes a challenge. OH BOY, a challenge this is.
Max’s mom just happens to be out one day and Ben Cooper the delivery guy for Cooper Baby brings by a crib to put together and when him and Max see each other it’s INSTANT sparks! Ben is so freaking adorable… *SIGH* I wish there were more guys like him around. He is a subtle flirter which I love because he’s not TOO forward… and I know for a fact that Max likes it too!
Max runs into a BIG major problem when she runs into her ex-boyfriend Hugo… because she hasn’t gotten over him yet. When her friends find out they try to help her but Max doesn’t want to admit her weakness to them so she acts as if nothing is wrong and gets herself into trouble because of her pride. I could TOTALLY relate to Max though I mean if I ran a major business helping girls get over their exes and I hadn’t gotten over mine yet… I DEFINITELY wouldn’t want to talk about it.
For this book I’ll say it gets worse before it gets better and you WILL feel like shaking some sense into Max because (OH MAN I can’t tell you). Just read it and find out.. you have to find out if she ends up with Ben or not! So glad I gave this book a chance.
Book provided by Southern Book Blogger ARC Tours, in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2012
Over You
was such a fun, light-hearted, fast read that was incredibly relatable from the start. It's a wonderful go-to summer read, when you're just lounging around and wanting something that isn't heavy handed and is equal parts engaging and entertaining. This book quenches all those thirsts for cute charming reads. It's the perfect post-break-up book, with all of Max's advice on how to get over the guys that break your heart. The characters are likable and easy to connect with, the plot is entertaining, and there's a lightness to it that makes it kind of hard to put down.
Max is such a sassy heroine with a lot of personality and oodles of original creativity. It was super easy to connect with her, in such a relatable way. She's bright, incredibly caring, and always willing to help anyone out with as much advice as she can dispense to them. Unfortunately, when it comes to taking her own advice, she finds it's a bit more difficult than sharing it with other's. She's in love with Hugo. Perfect Hugo, except in reality, he's not perfect by any means. He's not even that likable at all, really. The best thing that he could have done for Max was probably breaking up with her, even though it hurt her enough to cause her to drop out of her old school and move to a new city.
There she starts up her own business helping other's to get over their exes, meets Ben, and starts realizing things about herself that she hadn't noticed before. The only thing that niggles at me, is the fact that Max thought she had to move to a new city in order to get away from the guy who broke her heart. Overall, I absolutely loved the positive girl power spin that Emma McLaughlin manage to write. It was such a wonderfully written story full of friendship, self-discovery, heartbreak, and love. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys young adult contemporary's that will pull and tug at your heart the way this one did mine.
Max is such a sassy heroine with a lot of personality and oodles of original creativity. It was super easy to connect with her, in such a relatable way. She's bright, incredibly caring, and always willing to help anyone out with as much advice as she can dispense to them. Unfortunately, when it comes to taking her own advice, she finds it's a bit more difficult than sharing it with other's. She's in love with Hugo. Perfect Hugo, except in reality, he's not perfect by any means. He's not even that likable at all, really. The best thing that he could have done for Max was probably breaking up with her, even though it hurt her enough to cause her to drop out of her old school and move to a new city.
There she starts up her own business helping other's to get over their exes, meets Ben, and starts realizing things about herself that she hadn't noticed before. The only thing that niggles at me, is the fact that Max thought she had to move to a new city in order to get away from the guy who broke her heart. Overall, I absolutely loved the positive girl power spin that Emma McLaughlin manage to write. It was such a wonderfully written story full of friendship, self-discovery, heartbreak, and love. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys young adult contemporary's that will pull and tug at your heart the way this one did mine.
August 7, 2012
Max is a girl, who like many others, has suffered a horrendous break up that left her alone and brokenhearted. She is the founder of Ex, Inc. which is a flourishing company that helps devastated girls get over boys that recklessly damaged their hearts. Max seems to such a strong and confident character. I couldn’t believe that she put together this program to help other girls in need, and she really cared about their recovery. Her story, of her own break up, was not revealed until later of course and I was wondering if we were ever going to get the details!
At first I really liked Max and then once I got to the middle of the book I started to change my mind. I guess I was just somewhat disappointed in her when I learned that she was not over her own break up, but was strongly encouraging other girls to get over theirs. I didn’t expect her to be invincible, but I guess after the first few chapters I came to see her as some kind of superwoman of break ups! It was almost like Ex, Inc. was some kind of front for her own insecurities. I am not saying that I completely disliked Max because I didn’t. I just had such a strong individual in my mind and I should not have jumped the gun on my own assumptions.
I LOVED the guy that Max meets named Ben. She meets Ben when he comes to put together the new crib for her younger sibling that is on the way. What a cute and completely strange way to meet a potential boyfriend!! Anyhow, I just really liked Ben because from the get go I could tell that he was a sincere person and he was already crazy about Max. Of course Max had to mess up a few times, like most girls do with the guy that is obviously perfect for them, but finally she got her stuff together! This was a cute story but probably nothing that I would read a second time around. It was a fast, light summer read and took me no time at all to finish.
At first I really liked Max and then once I got to the middle of the book I started to change my mind. I guess I was just somewhat disappointed in her when I learned that she was not over her own break up, but was strongly encouraging other girls to get over theirs. I didn’t expect her to be invincible, but I guess after the first few chapters I came to see her as some kind of superwoman of break ups! It was almost like Ex, Inc. was some kind of front for her own insecurities. I am not saying that I completely disliked Max because I didn’t. I just had such a strong individual in my mind and I should not have jumped the gun on my own assumptions.
I LOVED the guy that Max meets named Ben. She meets Ben when he comes to put together the new crib for her younger sibling that is on the way. What a cute and completely strange way to meet a potential boyfriend!! Anyhow, I just really liked Ben because from the get go I could tell that he was a sincere person and he was already crazy about Max. Of course Max had to mess up a few times, like most girls do with the guy that is obviously perfect for them, but finally she got her stuff together! This was a cute story but probably nothing that I would read a second time around. It was a fast, light summer read and took me no time at all to finish.
August 27, 2012
I've heard great things about the Nanny Diaries by the same two authors and was really excited when I saw they'd written a YA novel! So of course I jumped at the chance to read and review this wonderful sounding book!
So I am a bit sad to say that I didn't end up enjoying this book as much as I wanted to. I think part of this was due to the writing style not really working for me. The third person present form for some reason made me feel like there was a big wall between me and the characters and I never fully succeeded in bridging that wall throughout the novel.
I didn't feel like I really got to know Max and that's probably what bothers me most. I felt like I was left hanging, like her friends were and I still don't really know how to describe her. I did like that she genuinely wanted to help other girls. She made some bad choices and was just not doing so well confronting her own problems, but that's what made her a bit more interesting.
I admit that I was kind of wondering what was so special about her that everyone listened to her, getting instructed about what to do to get over heartbreak and guys falling for her. I think this also goes back to the not really feeling like I got to know her thing. It was all slightly hard to believe for me.
Though the writing style was really not for me, the story itself was nice, it didn't blow me away, but it was a light read and had some funny moments.
My rating: 2,5 stars
So I am a bit sad to say that I didn't end up enjoying this book as much as I wanted to. I think part of this was due to the writing style not really working for me. The third person present form for some reason made me feel like there was a big wall between me and the characters and I never fully succeeded in bridging that wall throughout the novel.
I didn't feel like I really got to know Max and that's probably what bothers me most. I felt like I was left hanging, like her friends were and I still don't really know how to describe her. I did like that she genuinely wanted to help other girls. She made some bad choices and was just not doing so well confronting her own problems, but that's what made her a bit more interesting.
I admit that I was kind of wondering what was so special about her that everyone listened to her, getting instructed about what to do to get over heartbreak and guys falling for her. I think this also goes back to the not really feeling like I got to know her thing. It was all slightly hard to believe for me.
Though the writing style was really not for me, the story itself was nice, it didn't blow me away, but it was a light read and had some funny moments.
My rating: 2,5 stars
August 10, 2012
Over You isn't exactly what I thought it was going to be. Still is was a cute, light read.
We meet Max, a girl that has had her heart broken. Like most teenagers she didn't handle it so well. In fact you might say that she went a little crazy. That's when it hits her...there has to be a way to deal with a break up to make the guy realize his mistake, right? One thing leads to another and Ex. Inc. is born. Now with Max on a mission to make all guys swallow their own foot and every broken hearted girl over it she thinks she has it all figured out. That is until it's her foot that she is left choking on.
This reads like Gossip Girl is narrating it. This is the part that surprised me. The way it's written, in third person narrative, leaves it a little jumbled and hard to read at times. The flow is just off in places. This just made it not as enjoyable for me. Still I was stuck needing to know how it was going to end which pushed me to keep reading. This story just has a way of sucking you in. And I'm pretty sure that reason is a boy named Ben. I loved him and couldn't get enough of him. He was just so sweet and funny, with his heart on his sleeve. I also loved the comedy in this book. It had me laughing out loud over and over again.
Overall I think this could have been written in a way that was easier to read but still it's a cute, quick, sweet, beach read that I would recommend to anyone whose a fan of contemporary ya.
We meet Max, a girl that has had her heart broken. Like most teenagers she didn't handle it so well. In fact you might say that she went a little crazy. That's when it hits her...there has to be a way to deal with a break up to make the guy realize his mistake, right? One thing leads to another and Ex. Inc. is born. Now with Max on a mission to make all guys swallow their own foot and every broken hearted girl over it she thinks she has it all figured out. That is until it's her foot that she is left choking on.
This reads like Gossip Girl is narrating it. This is the part that surprised me. The way it's written, in third person narrative, leaves it a little jumbled and hard to read at times. The flow is just off in places. This just made it not as enjoyable for me. Still I was stuck needing to know how it was going to end which pushed me to keep reading. This story just has a way of sucking you in. And I'm pretty sure that reason is a boy named Ben. I loved him and couldn't get enough of him. He was just so sweet and funny, with his heart on his sleeve. I also loved the comedy in this book. It had me laughing out loud over and over again.
Overall I think this could have been written in a way that was easier to read but still it's a cute, quick, sweet, beach read that I would recommend to anyone whose a fan of contemporary ya.
Read
August 25, 2012This book was a super light, fun read that was a bit too shallow for me.
So, I kinda liked Max? I have mixed feelings on her, which really could be a good thing. Very real to life, you know? She made stupid decisions. She had a tendency to be overbearing. She was also kind of creepy. But Max also meant well and wanted to be a good person. She wanted to reach her ultimate goal and I admire that.
The story was actually really interesting. There were a few points that annoyed me, a few I didn't see coming, and a few that made me happy. I really liked the ending. I went in expecting this light, fun story and I got something a bit deeper an darker than that, but otherwise largely what I thought it would be. Like a lot of contemp YA, there was some hidden depth to Over You.
However, I think this was also the major weak point for me. I was never drawn in and personally, I think way too much attention was paid to fashion and clothing. I don't need every detail or designer, you know? The voice was a bit off and I just couldn't get sucked in. But this is largely a personal thing, so it may not apply to everyone.
Over You is not the kind of book I'd normally read, but it was quick and entertaining and while not memorable or awesome, still a pretty good read.
So, I kinda liked Max? I have mixed feelings on her, which really could be a good thing. Very real to life, you know? She made stupid decisions. She had a tendency to be overbearing. She was also kind of creepy. But Max also meant well and wanted to be a good person. She wanted to reach her ultimate goal and I admire that.
The story was actually really interesting. There were a few points that annoyed me, a few I didn't see coming, and a few that made me happy. I really liked the ending. I went in expecting this light, fun story and I got something a bit deeper an darker than that, but otherwise largely what I thought it would be. Like a lot of contemp YA, there was some hidden depth to Over You.
However, I think this was also the major weak point for me. I was never drawn in and personally, I think way too much attention was paid to fashion and clothing. I don't need every detail or designer, you know? The voice was a bit off and I just couldn't get sucked in. But this is largely a personal thing, so it may not apply to everyone.
Over You is not the kind of book I'd normally read, but it was quick and entertaining and while not memorable or awesome, still a pretty good read.
May 20, 2014
Such brilliance on bringing humor to the never ending story of love and heartaches. I love the theory and the master objective of Max's company. Who better knows the secret of a battered heart better than a girl who suffered from it. But as it always goes there are different sides of the stories and I like it tgat they presented it here. Love is kind of cliche as a topic with different stories with same topic all over the internet nowadays, but the authors crafted a tale that appeals to the girls who has fallen in love or had her heart broken. It's smart observations, captures the attention of every teen girl out there. Readers will surely love this light read about breaking up, moving on, new beginnings and getting even like I did.
Want to read
August 29, 2012is it wrong that i pictured them as james BTR and the girl in 'music better with U' video ??
they looked so cute 2gether :D
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
<3 for them !!! mmwaaahh Lol :D
they looked so cute 2gether :D
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
<3 for them !!! mmwaaahh Lol :D
March 21, 2014
Completely in love with this book, it wasn't what I expected.
I loved the strong lead of max and how she lead her business. She's confident strong and determined to make her business Ex Inc. a global enterprise.
Through all the tears and strategic melt down and moments Max falls in love, confronts her past and learns about herself, her business and love.
I loved the strong lead of max and how she lead her business. She's confident strong and determined to make her business Ex Inc. a global enterprise.
Through all the tears and strategic melt down and moments Max falls in love, confronts her past and learns about herself, her business and love.
September 20, 2012
I'm sorry to say that I really don't like the book. I was so happy when I first got it, After a few chapters, I just wish it'd be over soon.
May 9, 2017
Reading is like dreaming with your eyes open. It’s setting aside all of life’s problems and losing yourself in a fantasy world. Although you may lose yourself in a good book, you may also find yourself as well. Reading certain books can change your perspective on life and just that itself is amazing. Every book doesn’t always have the capability to do that to the reader, you just have to find the right one intriguing enough to make you forget about real life for a bit. Over You is a novel written by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus. Unfortunately, this book just couldn’t do that for me.
To start off, the theme of this book is that although it may not always be the easiest way, you can always get over someone who once left you. The book gives ways to not only get over an ex but also get even. The main character who gets dumped is a girl named Max Scott. She’s seventeen years old and had to deal with the explosion of her last relationship. What I don’t like relating to this theme in the book is that it sends the message that it’s okay to hurt, get back at, and lie to someone as long as you kind of apologize after. It also involves Max stealing as a way to “get over her ex” or temporarily feel better with designer things which is a terrible message to send readers. The conflict in the book is that Max’s ex shows up back in her life randomly when she wasn’t yet over him. Once she did everything to get over her ex completely, she started helping any brokenhearted girl in New York City do the same. That was one of the only positives of the resolution in this novel.
Correspondingly, not only is the theme misleading, but the format of Over You is deceiving. Emma McLaughlin wrote this book in third person which wouldn’t be all so bad if she hadn’t constantly changed who was speaking every 2 minutes without a real warning. One second Max was talking, next Ben, then Zach. It got confusing and hard to keep up with after a while. The book also got so boring because of how lost I was that I couldn’t get past three-fourths of the text.
Along with that, it was so unrealistic. Max dropped out of high school because she got dumped. What type of parent let’s you do that over a teenage boy? Not only that but Max also runs around New York at all hours of the day and night blowing money on designer things. No parent in real life would allow that. Not to mention she breaks and enters into Teen Vogues Floor and steals clothing but calls it “borrowing an outfit.” That’s not something people should be told is okay. Lastly, another unrealistic thing is how fast Ben fell in love with Max. They knew each other for 5 minutes and he claimed he was madly in love with her. That’s a bit too cheesy for me. On the other hand, if you want a cheesy love story involving lots of teenage drama this book is for you. Some people may say they liked the gossip and rebellious events Max takes place in this novel, but I can’t relate.
All in all, I would not recommend this book. It doesn’t send a good message to teens in any circumstance involving how to deal with a breakup or stay away from doing illegal things. If you’re like me you will definitely get lost. confused, and bored by the writer's text. The style she wrote in did not flow well especially with all the character jumping throughout the dialogue. I would rate it a 2 out of 5 stars but maybe it’s just your taste. The only way you’ll be able to find out is giving it a read yourself!
To start off, the theme of this book is that although it may not always be the easiest way, you can always get over someone who once left you. The book gives ways to not only get over an ex but also get even. The main character who gets dumped is a girl named Max Scott. She’s seventeen years old and had to deal with the explosion of her last relationship. What I don’t like relating to this theme in the book is that it sends the message that it’s okay to hurt, get back at, and lie to someone as long as you kind of apologize after. It also involves Max stealing as a way to “get over her ex” or temporarily feel better with designer things which is a terrible message to send readers. The conflict in the book is that Max’s ex shows up back in her life randomly when she wasn’t yet over him. Once she did everything to get over her ex completely, she started helping any brokenhearted girl in New York City do the same. That was one of the only positives of the resolution in this novel.
Correspondingly, not only is the theme misleading, but the format of Over You is deceiving. Emma McLaughlin wrote this book in third person which wouldn’t be all so bad if she hadn’t constantly changed who was speaking every 2 minutes without a real warning. One second Max was talking, next Ben, then Zach. It got confusing and hard to keep up with after a while. The book also got so boring because of how lost I was that I couldn’t get past three-fourths of the text.
Along with that, it was so unrealistic. Max dropped out of high school because she got dumped. What type of parent let’s you do that over a teenage boy? Not only that but Max also runs around New York at all hours of the day and night blowing money on designer things. No parent in real life would allow that. Not to mention she breaks and enters into Teen Vogues Floor and steals clothing but calls it “borrowing an outfit.” That’s not something people should be told is okay. Lastly, another unrealistic thing is how fast Ben fell in love with Max. They knew each other for 5 minutes and he claimed he was madly in love with her. That’s a bit too cheesy for me. On the other hand, if you want a cheesy love story involving lots of teenage drama this book is for you. Some people may say they liked the gossip and rebellious events Max takes place in this novel, but I can’t relate.
All in all, I would not recommend this book. It doesn’t send a good message to teens in any circumstance involving how to deal with a breakup or stay away from doing illegal things. If you’re like me you will definitely get lost. confused, and bored by the writer's text. The style she wrote in did not flow well especially with all the character jumping throughout the dialogue. I would rate it a 2 out of 5 stars but maybe it’s just your taste. The only way you’ll be able to find out is giving it a read yourself!
November 22, 2017
I did not enjoy this book as much as I hoped. It really reminded me of the hit classic movie, "John Tucker Must Die," except it wasn't as original. Personal problems I had with this book was that it was like a rip-off john tucker must die, and so I felt like the idea wasn't as original and it kind of bored me. Then, I hated the fact that it was written in third person because that makes it so much more impersonal and harder to relate to and imagine. Additionally, I don't know what it was, but the storyline was lacking something. I feel like it was kind of messy. We had so many characters with their own problems and the author tried to connect their stories together but it didn't really work, and it turned out pretty boresome. I skipped lots of pages, and it didn't hold my attention. There's this guy who breaks up with his first ever girlfriend for basically no reason except that she was the first girl he ever dated and he didn't want to be tied down in college, the girl was broken-hearted, there's this other girl trying to get over her ex, there's some revenge, evil plotting, talking shit, and then it gets lovey dovey again when she falls in love with a new guy introduced into the story. But then her ex comes back into her life and she realizes she's not completely over it, so she tries to deal with it, but ends up complicating her friendship and almost thing with this other guy. It was an okay book, but could have been better. Very junior high style drama and a lot of the characters just made me mad because they made such bad choices and were so dumb.
May 10, 2021
I think this book is a good representative of a how a lot of girls handle breakups now a days. The main character Max gets dumped, and rather than dealing with her own issues, she's their to help others through their own breakups. What happened throughout the book is something that happens to people in real life, and really relates to you. Which is something I enjoyed about this book, the way it's easy to kind of connect with for girls. Do I think it was written all that great, no. I don't think you got to know details and characteristics of the characters well enough. Do I think it was a good plot, yes. I think it really connects to a lot of women. The feelings that Max had felt, and how we help others in the same position we've been in, because that's what we do for our friends. I feel like I'd enjoy this book a lot more if the main character was more developed in getting to know her feelings more throughout the book. Overall, this book was not horrible and an easy read!
July 18, 2012
This was a fun, quick, chic read! It’s the kind of book you read by the pool, sipping a cool cocktail and daydreaming about cute boys, big cities, fancy fashion, parties and vacations... A perfect summer read! (after all the tragic, intense books I’ve read lately, I really needed something light and entertaining).
Told in 3rd person POV, Over You is a contemporary story about friendship, young love, relationships, break-ups, broken hearts and learning to move on.
I haven’t read many Young Adult books told in 3rd person POV before, so it took me a little while to get used to the writing style. But once I got into the story, I started to really enjoy it and I couldn’t put it down until I finished it! Of course, it also helped that Max was a very likeable character and it was easy to relate to her. She’s smart, sassy, independent, confident, determined and a lot of fun to follow around! She’s always up to something, always in action. She started her own business - granted, it’s not really a business, more like a means to help girls in post-break-up distress, but still - she’s put to work some pretty impressive entrepreneurial skills.
She always tries to find the best solution for everything, but she’s also caring and reliable, so people look up to her and ask for her help frequently (I could have used a friend like her back in high school):
She and her crew are always planning or working on something, so there’s no dull moment throughout the book. Max is resourceful, intuitive and likes to have everything under control – and if she doesn’t, she acts like she does – there’s people counting on her, after all. She’s positive and creative and always has a back-up plan. Or she used to – up until now.
Their latest case proves to be a little more challenging that the previous ones they’ve worked on. There may be more people and *gasp!* even some real feelings involved. So everything starts to be a little more complicated.
Max had to moved a lot over the years, so she didn’t get the chance to build strong relationships. Now it’s easier for her to just keep a cool façade and not to get attached to anyone. So when she faces what her ‘clients’ endure everyday and her perfect image begins to slip, her life gets a bit out of control and suddenly there’s too much to handle on her own.
She’s the kind of girl who always knows what to say and how to make people feel better, but when it comes to her own personal problems, she struggles to find a solution, to use her own advice or to actually trust someone. But that’s when she starts to realize what she’s been missing all along; who cares about her and is always there for her, no matter how much she tries to keep them at a safe distance. Because, after all, there’s always more to a story than meets the eye.
Since the story was told in 3rd person POV, we got some glimpses from other characters as well, which was refreshing and interesting, but in the same time, a little confusing. You get caught up in Max’s story and then BAM! There’s Taylor pacing around the room, talking to his best friend and having second thoughts about… something (spoiler). And then BAM! There’s Ben not wanting to admit that he has feelings for someone. And then we’re back to Max. Without any warning. Anyway, these sequences were few and far between and in the end, proved to be very helpful for the conclusion of the story, but still, they were confusing.
Ok, bottom line: we have humor, wit, fashion, romance, friendship, loyalty, likeable characters, original plot and a writing that flows effortlessly - all the ingredients necessary for a delightful summer read! (actually, this is a perfect read for those days when you need a breather from all the dramas and paranormals and dystopians and post-apocalyptics and the like;)).
Review also posted on my blog at Deea's Journal
Told in 3rd person POV, Over You is a contemporary story about friendship, young love, relationships, break-ups, broken hearts and learning to move on.
I haven’t read many Young Adult books told in 3rd person POV before, so it took me a little while to get used to the writing style. But once I got into the story, I started to really enjoy it and I couldn’t put it down until I finished it! Of course, it also helped that Max was a very likeable character and it was easy to relate to her. She’s smart, sassy, independent, confident, determined and a lot of fun to follow around! She’s always up to something, always in action. She started her own business - granted, it’s not really a business, more like a means to help girls in post-break-up distress, but still - she’s put to work some pretty impressive entrepreneurial skills.
Max sighs contentedly as she makes her way to Union Square, her tasks for the night completed. She relishes the feeling of being worn out by a full day of work, looks forward to getting into bed and waking up fresh tomorrow to tackle this new challenge of getting Bridget over the boy-next-door. Which is way worse than boy-from-camp, boy-in-school-play, or even boy-in-homeroom. She’s learned that there’s bound to be a strategy, she just has to think long and hard and shake down what the world has to offer.
She always tries to find the best solution for everything, but she’s also caring and reliable, so people look up to her and ask for her help frequently (I could have used a friend like her back in high school):
“This is your schedule,” Max says forcefully. “Up! Out of bed! And directly downstairs to the kitchen for a sugar-free caffeine beverage—”
“Sugar free?” Bridget asks through a mouthful of egg.
“No Coke. No Red Bull. No Frappuccinos. We can’t risk you getting artificially hyped and doing something ill advised.”[…] Little known fact: dehydration and depression go hand in hand.” She flashes a rapid succession of slides. “Virginia Woolf, Sylvia Plath, Courtney Love. Crazy? Maybe. Depressed? Probably. Dehydrated? Definitely. It’s astounding how the lack of electrolytes can suck a girl’s mojo. In conclusion, every morning, without fail. Caffeine. Protein. Shower. Real clothes. Water. CPSRW. I’m tacking it to the ceiling over your bed.”
She and her crew are always planning or working on something, so there’s no dull moment throughout the book. Max is resourceful, intuitive and likes to have everything under control – and if she doesn’t, she acts like she does – there’s people counting on her, after all. She’s positive and creative and always has a back-up plan. Or she used to – up until now.
Their latest case proves to be a little more challenging that the previous ones they’ve worked on. There may be more people and *gasp!* even some real feelings involved. So everything starts to be a little more complicated.
Max had to moved a lot over the years, so she didn’t get the chance to build strong relationships. Now it’s easier for her to just keep a cool façade and not to get attached to anyone. So when she faces what her ‘clients’ endure everyday and her perfect image begins to slip, her life gets a bit out of control and suddenly there’s too much to handle on her own.
Guys are so confusing! She looks over at the pile of bananas. It’s so clear which fruit are good and which ones are rotten. You can see it before you make your investment. Why can’t boys be more like bananas? Why do you have to put your heart out there before you find out you picked a bad one?
She’s the kind of girl who always knows what to say and how to make people feel better, but when it comes to her own personal problems, she struggles to find a solution, to use her own advice or to actually trust someone. But that’s when she starts to realize what she’s been missing all along; who cares about her and is always there for her, no matter how much she tries to keep them at a safe distance. Because, after all, there’s always more to a story than meets the eye.
Since the story was told in 3rd person POV, we got some glimpses from other characters as well, which was refreshing and interesting, but in the same time, a little confusing. You get caught up in Max’s story and then BAM! There’s Taylor pacing around the room, talking to his best friend and having second thoughts about… something (spoiler). And then BAM! There’s Ben not wanting to admit that he has feelings for someone. And then we’re back to Max. Without any warning. Anyway, these sequences were few and far between and in the end, proved to be very helpful for the conclusion of the story, but still, they were confusing.
Ok, bottom line: we have humor, wit, fashion, romance, friendship, loyalty, likeable characters, original plot and a writing that flows effortlessly - all the ingredients necessary for a delightful summer read! (actually, this is a perfect read for those days when you need a breather from all the dramas and paranormals and dystopians and post-apocalyptics and the like;)).
Review also posted on my blog at Deea's Journal
Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews