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Mellifica: Devastating First Love
No one understands the obsession Melissa Quinn has with Arien Hart.
He’s different—misunderstood. The more her friends warn her of Arien, the more Melissa refuses to listen. Enchanted by Arien’s charisma, she plunges into an impassioned relationship, leaving her boyfriend, Sandy Bavetta behind.
Melissa is blind to Arien’s faults, so Sandy has no choice but to leave it to fate.
When Arien's love destroys Melissa, Sandy fights for his girl before the consequences are devastating.
He’s different—misunderstood. The more her friends warn her of Arien, the more Melissa refuses to listen. Enchanted by Arien’s charisma, she plunges into an impassioned relationship, leaving her boyfriend, Sandy Bavetta behind.
Melissa is blind to Arien’s faults, so Sandy has no choice but to leave it to fate.
When Arien's love destroys Melissa, Sandy fights for his girl before the consequences are devastating.
- GenresYoung Adult
286 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2012
1 person is currently reading
206 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 22, 2016
Remember being a 16 year old girl? Good, stick with that. This book is written from the point of view of 16 year old Melissa Quinn. As such, there is a lot of going back and forth with herself on what she should be doing, what is the right thing to do, and what does her heart want to do. Lots of conflict surrounding her life, from should she fall for Sandy, the star quarterback of the football team to should she fall for the one who seems to be holding the strings, Arien.
Let’s just say that we start off with what seems like a sweet romance, then it turns into a broken romance, a little bit Heathers, and ultimately moves in the direction of a happily ever after. This is a cliffhanger and the story continues in Mellifica: Wait for Me.
Ms. Mayberry has created characters that keep you reading just to find out what else is going to happen. The fact that Mellifica is based on a true story tugs on your heart strings because you just hate that some of the incidents actually happened. This is a coming of age story for Mel, from church camp to pregnancy tests. Follow one year in the life of Melissa and see how emotional and devastating love can actually be.
Let’s just say that we start off with what seems like a sweet romance, then it turns into a broken romance, a little bit Heathers, and ultimately moves in the direction of a happily ever after. This is a cliffhanger and the story continues in Mellifica: Wait for Me.
Ms. Mayberry has created characters that keep you reading just to find out what else is going to happen. The fact that Mellifica is based on a true story tugs on your heart strings because you just hate that some of the incidents actually happened. This is a coming of age story for Mel, from church camp to pregnancy tests. Follow one year in the life of Melissa and see how emotional and devastating love can actually be.
November 30, 2013
Mellifica is an empowering, emotional journey sure to tug at your heartstrings.
Choices... will it be
SANDY or ARIEN
We all experience the heartache of a first love. But what happens when it changes your entire person? When promises are made and taken to the extreme, sometimes life throws a curveball, or in this case, wrecking ball, and changes everything.
Mellifica is a story of Melissa's first love, a love gone terribly wrong. She's a normal sixteen-year-old who has plenty of friends, goes to church, and has just landed Sandy,the sweetheart she's had her heart set on. Life is good, Melissa is happy with SANDY
Until...
ARIEN
Chad, Melissa's cousin, introduces her to his new buddy, Arien. Something about the way he looks at her and speaks to her draws Melissa closer to him. Eventually, she gives up on her current relationship with Sandy, partly because he breaks her trust, but the bigger reason is her sudden attraction to Arien.
Arien becomes Melissa's life, her future, her everything. He speaks beautiful thoughts, promises to love and take care of her forever, but never does she expect the gut wrenching experience she's headed toward.
When the death of one of Arien's favorite teacher's shocks Arien and the high school students, Melissa vows to take care of Arien in order to help him deal with the loss. What she doesn't expect is his sudden need to help someone else, and the many nights he doesn't contact her. She doesn't expect her whole world to come crashing down, but it does.
On top of suffering all of life's cruel blows, Melissa is also left with no friends, an overbearing mother who seems to have no understanding of the devastation her daughter is suffering. Will she regain control of her life and move past the evil blows life has dealt her?
TURMOIL. DEVASTATION. GUT WRENCHING PAIN. Will it ever end?
I seriously cried with Melissa and my heart was torn for her as I experienced her emotional turmoil. My heart rejoiced as she stepped closer to finding her true self again, though I'm sure it would take a long time to recover from such an emotional trauma to the heart and spirit. I feel like I'm trying to recover from reading such a remarkable story!
This is definitely one of my new favorites. I could only hope there would be a sequel coming in the near future to share more of Melissa's journey into her future.
*My head is still spinning over the heart wrenching drama.
11/30/2013 Update!! Book 2, MELLIFICA: Wait for Me, is now available!
Choices... will it be
SANDY or ARIEN
Mellifica is a story of Melissa's first love, a love gone terribly wrong. She's a normal sixteen-year-old who has plenty of friends, goes to church, and has just landed Sandy,the sweetheart she's had her heart set on. Life is good, Melissa is happy with SANDY
ARIEN
Arien becomes Melissa's life, her future, her everything. He speaks beautiful thoughts, promises to love and take care of her forever, but never does she expect the gut wrenching experience she's headed toward.
When the death of one of Arien's favorite teacher's shocks Arien and the high school students, Melissa vows to take care of Arien in order to help him deal with the loss. What she doesn't expect is his sudden need to help someone else, and the many nights he doesn't contact her. She doesn't expect her whole world to come crashing down, but it does.
On top of suffering all of life's cruel blows, Melissa is also left with no friends, an overbearing mother who seems to have no understanding of the devastation her daughter is suffering. Will she regain control of her life and move past the evil blows life has dealt her?
TURMOIL. DEVASTATION. GUT WRENCHING PAIN. Will it ever end?
I seriously cried with Melissa and my heart was torn for her as I experienced her emotional turmoil. My heart rejoiced as she stepped closer to finding her true self again, though I'm sure it would take a long time to recover from such an emotional trauma to the heart and spirit. I feel like I'm trying to recover from reading such a remarkable story!
This is definitely one of my new favorites. I could only hope there would be a sequel coming in the near future to share more of Melissa's journey into her future.
*My head is still spinning over the heart wrenching drama.
11/30/2013 Update!! Book 2, MELLIFICA: Wait for Me, is now available!
March 27, 2014
This book was so overwhelming. No words can describe the anguish this poor child goes through. In truth, when you're sixteen years old, life is a ride. New experiences, new emotions, new days. This book is raw to the core where you are left in clusterfuck of emotions. There are just no easier way in saying it.
Melissa Quinn: I try to recall my life at sixteen and it hurts me that around that time, I was going through a roller coaster but what breaks my heart is this child's lack of self confidence. She's so consumed in a relationship going in blindly and falling so hard for her first love that she loses herself.
Arien: is charismatic and infectious and it's no wonder she falls hard for him without realizing all of the warning signs of this toxic relationship. She reminded me of tamer of a viper and Arien was the viper.
Sandy: is just all around good guy and I cannot begin to explain my sentiments for this poor kid.
I would recommend this for young adult readers to read for the simple fact that this is a prime example of a book that kids now a days need to realize that is happening everyday. Kids having kids, kids using drugs and drinking, all it all stems down to lack of confidence and support. I recommend mothers and fathers read this too because, they need to open their eyes on the life kids are living. This book was set in the 90's and reality is that this has double in this generation.
I am not here to criticize on writing style or anything like that because I wanted to know the story which pulls you in and doesn't let go. I am giving it a 4 Star rating because it was cliffhanger- i've grown cold toward them, but none the less I read the next book. Feel free to check out that review next.
Would I recommend: Absolutely!
Melissa Quinn: I try to recall my life at sixteen and it hurts me that around that time, I was going through a roller coaster but what breaks my heart is this child's lack of self confidence. She's so consumed in a relationship going in blindly and falling so hard for her first love that she loses herself.
Arien: is charismatic and infectious and it's no wonder she falls hard for him without realizing all of the warning signs of this toxic relationship. She reminded me of tamer of a viper and Arien was the viper.
Sandy: is just all around good guy and I cannot begin to explain my sentiments for this poor kid.
I would recommend this for young adult readers to read for the simple fact that this is a prime example of a book that kids now a days need to realize that is happening everyday. Kids having kids, kids using drugs and drinking, all it all stems down to lack of confidence and support. I recommend mothers and fathers read this too because, they need to open their eyes on the life kids are living. This book was set in the 90's and reality is that this has double in this generation.
I am not here to criticize on writing style or anything like that because I wanted to know the story which pulls you in and doesn't let go. I am giving it a 4 Star rating because it was cliffhanger- i've grown cold toward them, but none the less I read the next book. Feel free to check out that review next.
Would I recommend: Absolutely!
August 11, 2012
Ms. Mayberry's book illustrates all too sadly how teenagers today are experiencing things that are way over their heads. When they should be studying for college entrance tests and taking Advanced Placement classes, the characters in this book are drinking and having underage sex. Their innocence is destroyed due to lack of parental supervision. Melissa, the main character, is enticed by a strange guy, Arien, who is friends with her cousin. Even though she has the superstar Sandy as a boyfriend, she allows herself to be seduced by a guy everyone warns her against.
The seduction turns into obsession as she is unprepared for the intense rollercoaster of feelings Arien dishes up to her, alternatively sweet and caring versus distant and strange. Things fall apart when Arien's dark secret is revealed and Melissa descends into a self-destructive spiral. Her mother belatedly starts caring about her, but the struggle for day to day survival is so difficult that it looks as if Melissa cannot recover. Broken and discarded, Melissa hits bottom before she is able to slowly pull herself back to a sense of normalcy.
The message for teens is to hold onto your innocence longer, and do not enter the soap-opera grownup world while your emotions are so fragile and unstable. The experiences described are traumatic and parents are advised to screen this book for younger teens.
The seduction turns into obsession as she is unprepared for the intense rollercoaster of feelings Arien dishes up to her, alternatively sweet and caring versus distant and strange. Things fall apart when Arien's dark secret is revealed and Melissa descends into a self-destructive spiral. Her mother belatedly starts caring about her, but the struggle for day to day survival is so difficult that it looks as if Melissa cannot recover. Broken and discarded, Melissa hits bottom before she is able to slowly pull herself back to a sense of normalcy.
The message for teens is to hold onto your innocence longer, and do not enter the soap-opera grownup world while your emotions are so fragile and unstable. The experiences described are traumatic and parents are advised to screen this book for younger teens.
February 28, 2014
A raw coming of age, boy meets girl, angst filled love story all around. This is a gradual story that takes you on a journey with Melissa as she learns to navigate the heartaches in life at an early age.
The story starts off with Melissa being your normal everyday teen with her group of friends, church camp and her hearts desire, Sandy. Then in walks Arien...the guy who sweet talks her and basically promises her the world. When her relationship with Sandy fizzles out Arien is there waiting.
On top of all the love drama, Melissa has to deal with your typical high school drama as well and a mother who seems less than concerned about what her daughters going through.
My heart broke for her several times and I became so engrossed in the story and characters that I just couldn't put it down.
This is a great and beautiful read that will stick with me for a long time. I'm ready to start book two and see what happens next.
The story starts off with Melissa being your normal everyday teen with her group of friends, church camp and her hearts desire, Sandy. Then in walks Arien...the guy who sweet talks her and basically promises her the world. When her relationship with Sandy fizzles out Arien is there waiting.
On top of all the love drama, Melissa has to deal with your typical high school drama as well and a mother who seems less than concerned about what her daughters going through.
My heart broke for her several times and I became so engrossed in the story and characters that I just couldn't put it down.
This is a great and beautiful read that will stick with me for a long time. I'm ready to start book two and see what happens next.
October 2, 2012
This story catches you from the first word! Mayberry created irresistibly compelling characters in Melissa, Sandy, and Adrien. You can't help but hate Adrien, feel sorry for Melissa, and root for Sandy in the end.
The authors ability to bring the struggles and triumphs of the teenage years to life was excellently done.
Fast, entertaining read. Looking forward to reading this author again!
The authors ability to bring the struggles and triumphs of the teenage years to life was excellently done.
Fast, entertaining read. Looking forward to reading this author again!
March 31, 2014
Before I start I'd like to thank the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of her book in exchange for an honest review. Doing so does not sway my feelings on the rating of a book whatsoever.
As I read this book, there were times when I wondered just where this book was going. There were accusations of Arien being the controlling boyfriend, but it seemed that Melissa had her own agenda at times. It really seemed, for the majority of the book, that Melissa had gone on a separate path on her own accord. It wasn't until about 3/4 of the way through that the reader got the sense that Arien was really playing her for the fool.
The book touches on a lot of hot topics that girls deal with. Anorexia, sex, abusive relationships, depression, alcohol abuse and the want to fit in with everyone else. Spoken through the voice of a teenager, at times thoughts are a bit muddled but it stays in sync with the way the characters are behaving.
As stated, this is based on a true story. How much of it is true and how much is fiction, I do not know. I would hope though that if any adult found out what another adult was doing with a minor, they would immediately take that to the authorities instead of just letting it go. The author does rope you into the story though and you want to know what is going to happen next. Suddenly you find the abuser being the abused and wonder what happened earlier in that persons life that made them that way.
You get to know Melissa, Arien, Sandy and everyone else. You also wonder where the hell all the parents are while everything is going on. Melissa's parents being the ones that you do get to see and know are around, but the fact is, that if everyone's parents had been present in their children's lives this story would have never occurred, at least not to these characters. Arien would not have turned out the way he did, Melissa would have met and known nothing but the sweet boy he was meant to be and nobody would have been hurt. You also wanted to shake up the kids though to wake them up. If you see or know of someone going down the wrong path, help them. Yes, they need to want that help, but the longer it takes with intervention, the harder it will be for them to want the help.
Melissa goes from an A student, cheerleader to a confused, barely there, near alcoholic and she suddenly becomes the young person with an old soul that you meet in the diners that you wonder, what happened to that person for them to become so low on life. You know the ones I'm talking about.
I recommend this to readers 13 and above. The situations involved in this book are not for the younger kids, but are right in line for the middle schooler's because these situations are becoming more apparent in peers and hopefully the story will stay with them through all the tough times so they can hopefully avoid the Arien's out there and stay true to themselves.
As I read this book, there were times when I wondered just where this book was going. There were accusations of Arien being the controlling boyfriend, but it seemed that Melissa had her own agenda at times. It really seemed, for the majority of the book, that Melissa had gone on a separate path on her own accord. It wasn't until about 3/4 of the way through that the reader got the sense that Arien was really playing her for the fool.
The book touches on a lot of hot topics that girls deal with. Anorexia, sex, abusive relationships, depression, alcohol abuse and the want to fit in with everyone else. Spoken through the voice of a teenager, at times thoughts are a bit muddled but it stays in sync with the way the characters are behaving.
As stated, this is based on a true story. How much of it is true and how much is fiction, I do not know. I would hope though that if any adult found out what another adult was doing with a minor, they would immediately take that to the authorities instead of just letting it go. The author does rope you into the story though and you want to know what is going to happen next. Suddenly you find the abuser being the abused and wonder what happened earlier in that persons life that made them that way.
You get to know Melissa, Arien, Sandy and everyone else. You also wonder where the hell all the parents are while everything is going on. Melissa's parents being the ones that you do get to see and know are around, but the fact is, that if everyone's parents had been present in their children's lives this story would have never occurred, at least not to these characters. Arien would not have turned out the way he did, Melissa would have met and known nothing but the sweet boy he was meant to be and nobody would have been hurt. You also wanted to shake up the kids though to wake them up. If you see or know of someone going down the wrong path, help them. Yes, they need to want that help, but the longer it takes with intervention, the harder it will be for them to want the help.
Melissa goes from an A student, cheerleader to a confused, barely there, near alcoholic and she suddenly becomes the young person with an old soul that you meet in the diners that you wonder, what happened to that person for them to become so low on life. You know the ones I'm talking about.
I recommend this to readers 13 and above. The situations involved in this book are not for the younger kids, but are right in line for the middle schooler's because these situations are becoming more apparent in peers and hopefully the story will stay with them through all the tough times so they can hopefully avoid the Arien's out there and stay true to themselves.
August 25, 2012
Mellifica: Devastating First Love was an enthralling and inspiring piece of work. I found myself avoiding normal daily duties, just so that I could curl up with my kindle and find out what happened next! The main character, Mel, takes us on a journey of love, lust, pain, hope and devastation. She is strong-willed and passionate which only adds to the agony of seeing her dragged into a relationship that leaves her hollow. The author is truly a talent. The story itself is so raw and real and Mayberry delivers it with such vulnerability that one can’t help but be completely swept away.
When Mel first falls in love with Arien, there is a sense of fate. As a reader, you find yourself cheering for this strange, misunderstood boy that is trying so hard to be a better person. You can’t understand why no one in her life approves of him, why they can’t be supportive and why Sandy (the boy trying to win her over) just won’t let her be happy. Mayberry does a beautiful job of setting up her characters, only to start subtly introducing the warning signs of an abusive relationship. Arien is possessive and destructive, driving Mel away from her friends and family and leaving her with no one but him. His manipulation of her love for him is so powerful that she is completely unable to accept a life without him, even though she eventually becomes terrified of him. This story is so true to the feelings of what it is like to first be in love. Unfortunately for Mel, her first love turns out to be a nightmare. Her challenge then, is to drag herself from the ashes of the furnace that Arien leaves her in and try to live without him.
Truly a superb book. Well done Melissa and thank you for a great read.
When Mel first falls in love with Arien, there is a sense of fate. As a reader, you find yourself cheering for this strange, misunderstood boy that is trying so hard to be a better person. You can’t understand why no one in her life approves of him, why they can’t be supportive and why Sandy (the boy trying to win her over) just won’t let her be happy. Mayberry does a beautiful job of setting up her characters, only to start subtly introducing the warning signs of an abusive relationship. Arien is possessive and destructive, driving Mel away from her friends and family and leaving her with no one but him. His manipulation of her love for him is so powerful that she is completely unable to accept a life without him, even though she eventually becomes terrified of him. This story is so true to the feelings of what it is like to first be in love. Unfortunately for Mel, her first love turns out to be a nightmare. Her challenge then, is to drag herself from the ashes of the furnace that Arien leaves her in and try to live without him.
Truly a superb book. Well done Melissa and thank you for a great read.
January 23, 2013
Melissa Mayberry has created a stunning novel about teens, first love, the battles of high school, and the social pressures that go along with it all. This amazing novel from the first chapter had me hooked. I fell in love with the main characters - Melissa, Sandy, Arien, Chad, Shanna, Don... Each one a character so real I think I knew them in my high school. The characters face situations that tons of teens face today. The subject was heavy, but Mayberry did a great job of keeping it sweet, light and heartwarming.
The entire novel was a true love story turned wrong. Melissa just wanted to be in love with the guy of her dreams, literally, Arien. When her entire world is turned upside down because Arien turns out to be completely bad for her, Melissa must choose. The ending was not what I expected, but I loved how it turned out. I can't say too much about it without giving away too much detail. This book is very inspiring, empowering, and will make your heart feel all warm and fuzzy.
Read this book if you're a fan of teen romance novels, teen fiction, teen love stories, love stories, or coming of age stories. I highly recommend this novel to readers over the age of 16 (some YA or mature content).
~HilyBee from Novel d'Tales
The entire novel was a true love story turned wrong. Melissa just wanted to be in love with the guy of her dreams, literally, Arien. When her entire world is turned upside down because Arien turns out to be completely bad for her, Melissa must choose. The ending was not what I expected, but I loved how it turned out. I can't say too much about it without giving away too much detail. This book is very inspiring, empowering, and will make your heart feel all warm and fuzzy.
Read this book if you're a fan of teen romance novels, teen fiction, teen love stories, love stories, or coming of age stories. I highly recommend this novel to readers over the age of 16 (some YA or mature content).
~HilyBee from Novel d'Tales
September 5, 2012
A dark, raw and extreme snapshot into the angst of hormone ridden teens.
When Mel's innocent relationship with a boy at school goes sour, she finds herself totally drawn to the school bad boy and getting sucked into a full-on unhealthy underage sexual relationship. There is trouble aplenty and Melissa deals with so many dark and disturbing self-destructive issues when her life starts to down-spiral with this boy.
The author does a great job of showing the reader that these young characters (who in their minds are fully cooked) are not mature enough to deal with such intense emotions and should do all they can to hold onto their innocence, that adults like myself reading this may yearn to enter the story to parent her for a day... or longer.
I am not sure what age group this is targeted at, but being a stepmum to teens myself, I would suggest that parents SCREEN this book for young teens due to the content, because it is a hard-hitting rather than sweet read, that certainly left me thinking about these issues after finishing it.
When Mel's innocent relationship with a boy at school goes sour, she finds herself totally drawn to the school bad boy and getting sucked into a full-on unhealthy underage sexual relationship. There is trouble aplenty and Melissa deals with so many dark and disturbing self-destructive issues when her life starts to down-spiral with this boy.
The author does a great job of showing the reader that these young characters (who in their minds are fully cooked) are not mature enough to deal with such intense emotions and should do all they can to hold onto their innocence, that adults like myself reading this may yearn to enter the story to parent her for a day... or longer.
I am not sure what age group this is targeted at, but being a stepmum to teens myself, I would suggest that parents SCREEN this book for young teens due to the content, because it is a hard-hitting rather than sweet read, that certainly left me thinking about these issues after finishing it.
March 25, 2014
While reading "Mellifica: Devastating First Love", I had to keep reminding myself that Mel (Melissa/Mellifica) is only 16 years old.
That age is difficult enough... But to read what Mel went through, was so emotional. So much for such a young age.
At times it was easy to get frustrated with her (and other characters) while reading; but the more you read, and the more complex things get, the more you get sucked in... and you'll find that you might question things in the same manner that Mel does.
She has so much pressure in her life, and I found myself really hoping for her to find happiness.
I'm not going to give spoilers ;)
I do suggest this book. I'm going on to read book #2 in the series now ("Mellifica: Wait For Me").
That age is difficult enough... But to read what Mel went through, was so emotional. So much for such a young age.
At times it was easy to get frustrated with her (and other characters) while reading; but the more you read, and the more complex things get, the more you get sucked in... and you'll find that you might question things in the same manner that Mel does.
She has so much pressure in her life, and I found myself really hoping for her to find happiness.
I'm not going to give spoilers ;)
I do suggest this book. I'm going on to read book #2 in the series now ("Mellifica: Wait For Me").
April 7, 2014
This was an entertaining book that I finished in one sitting.
It moved along at the perfect pace, not to fast nor to slow, has amazing characters and a story that will not let you down.
Melissa Mayberry is a very talented author and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
It moved along at the perfect pace, not to fast nor to slow, has amazing characters and a story that will not let you down.
Melissa Mayberry is a very talented author and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
June 11, 2014
Melissa Mayberry wrote a heart wrenching first installment to the Mellifica series. Love is difficult enough, but even more so when you are 16 years old. Cheerleader Melissa Quinn believes she found the perfect first boyfriend in football star Sandy. He gives her a beautiful heart charm for her bracelet for her birthday, and then asks her to be his girl. She then meets Arien, who is the opposite of Sandy, tall, thin, nerdy, and a little dark and mysterious.
Intrigued by Arien, she starts to doubt her love for Sandy. When the tension build and explodes into a fight between Arien and Sandy, Melissa decides that Arien is the boy for her. Jealousy and sorrow test Melissa and Arien's relationship, and in the end she is betrayed, and left alone by the boy she though she loved.
In a moment of clarity Melissa seeks out Sandy, to ask for forgiveness and another chance. He has been waiting for her all along. But what will happen to Melissa and Sandy now that Arien is back in town to stay?
Melissa, Sandy and Arien are just normal hormonal teenagers trying to find love. This story will bring you back to your high school, and all the warm fuzzy feelings of your first love, and the complete and utter sadness of your first breakup. Kudos to Melissa Mayberry for putting her real life experiences into a book for all to read. Looking forward to finding out what happens in book two Mellifica: Wait For Me.
Intrigued by Arien, she starts to doubt her love for Sandy. When the tension build and explodes into a fight between Arien and Sandy, Melissa decides that Arien is the boy for her. Jealousy and sorrow test Melissa and Arien's relationship, and in the end she is betrayed, and left alone by the boy she though she loved.
In a moment of clarity Melissa seeks out Sandy, to ask for forgiveness and another chance. He has been waiting for her all along. But what will happen to Melissa and Sandy now that Arien is back in town to stay?
Melissa, Sandy and Arien are just normal hormonal teenagers trying to find love. This story will bring you back to your high school, and all the warm fuzzy feelings of your first love, and the complete and utter sadness of your first breakup. Kudos to Melissa Mayberry for putting her real life experiences into a book for all to read. Looking forward to finding out what happens in book two Mellifica: Wait For Me.
August 12, 2013
A devastating love story of boy meets girl.
It’s not a story with action, but a slow moving emotional unraveling, showing the development of a relationship that should never have happened. Youth and inexperience throws the protagonist, Melissa, into an entangling relationship that is destructive and venomous to her young emotional state of mind.
Arien, the bad news boy, is fascinated by Melissa and sets out to conquer her heart. He is kind and gentle with her, a virgin. Arien takes his time to win her confidence and trust before getting into her pants.
Chad, Melissa’s cousin and Arien’s best friend, warns Melissa the boy is not good and is using her. The kindness Arien shows Melissa, though, wins her over and she does not listen to all the warnings her friends give her.
When Arien moves on to his next adventure, Melissa is left in a downward spiral, headed for self-destruction.
The sex is more than I would ever expect for a young adult novel. I would never allow my 13 year old daughter to read the book, even though it presents a scenario that happens every day.
The story is intriguing, the characters captivating and Ms. Mayberry does a great job developing the changes that occur in the characters. I do have a few reservations about the efficiency of the editing. I found too many missing words and other errors that bothered me and took me out of the story.
It’s not a story with action, but a slow moving emotional unraveling, showing the development of a relationship that should never have happened. Youth and inexperience throws the protagonist, Melissa, into an entangling relationship that is destructive and venomous to her young emotional state of mind.
Arien, the bad news boy, is fascinated by Melissa and sets out to conquer her heart. He is kind and gentle with her, a virgin. Arien takes his time to win her confidence and trust before getting into her pants.
Chad, Melissa’s cousin and Arien’s best friend, warns Melissa the boy is not good and is using her. The kindness Arien shows Melissa, though, wins her over and she does not listen to all the warnings her friends give her.
When Arien moves on to his next adventure, Melissa is left in a downward spiral, headed for self-destruction.
The sex is more than I would ever expect for a young adult novel. I would never allow my 13 year old daughter to read the book, even though it presents a scenario that happens every day.
The story is intriguing, the characters captivating and Ms. Mayberry does a great job developing the changes that occur in the characters. I do have a few reservations about the efficiency of the editing. I found too many missing words and other errors that bothered me and took me out of the story.
August 10, 2016
This was a good story about a young girl who just turns 16, and has everything she wants. A new popular jock boyfriend (Sandy), a best friend and parents who let her do what ever she wants. Who doesn't want that kinda life right? Things change when she meets Arien, her cousins friend who comes to her sweet 16 party. She is drawn to him yet she finds him weird. When Sandy makes a mistake it pushes Melissa into the arms of Arien, even after everyone is warning her to stay away from him she can't seem to get enough of him. After spending time with him at a summer camp she decides to give him a chance and make the relationship work. The closer they get the more in love she falls until something happens that breaks her heart and makes her even more confused then before! She is forced to decided if she should trust Arien or her family. This was a great read and I couldn't wait to find out what was happening at each turn!
January 7, 2015
This was a good story about a young girl who just turns 16, and has everything she wants. A new popular jock boyfriend (Sandy), a best friend and parents who let her do what ever she wants. Who doesn't want that kinda life right? Things change when she meets Arien, her cousins friend who comes to her sweet 16 party. She is drawn to him yet she finds him weird. When Sandy makes a mistake it pushes Melissa into the arms of Arien, even after everyone is warning her to stay away from him she can't seem to get enough of him. After spending time with him at a summer camp she decides to give him a chance and make the relationship work. The closer they get the more in love she falls until something happens that breaks her heart and makes her even more confused then before! She is forced to decided if she should trust Arien or her family. This was a great read and I couldn't wait to find out what was happening at each turn!
February 17, 2016
I recieved a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
At first, I was tempted to give up on this book. I just couldn't really get into it. But towards the end, that changed. My heart went out to Melissia. I wanted her to see what was really going on. That what everyone around her was telling her was the truth, not just making things up to separate her from the boy she thought she loved. That she would open her eyes and see how things really were.
I can tell that this is based on a true story because of the emotion that the author puts behind these words. All the hurt and heartache are real. I love when you can feel the emotional turmoil of the author because that shows in the writing and for me anyways, pulls me into the story.
At first, I was tempted to give up on this book. I just couldn't really get into it. But towards the end, that changed. My heart went out to Melissia. I wanted her to see what was really going on. That what everyone around her was telling her was the truth, not just making things up to separate her from the boy she thought she loved. That she would open her eyes and see how things really were.
I can tell that this is based on a true story because of the emotion that the author puts behind these words. All the hurt and heartache are real. I love when you can feel the emotional turmoil of the author because that shows in the writing and for me anyways, pulls me into the story.
March 6, 2016
A teenage love triangle.
I abolutely loved this book! Mel is an inexperienced teenager when she feels almost instantly drawn to the bad boy. Despite everyone warning her, she embarks on a relationship that may or may not be good for them both. Circumstances and more interference from others helps direct the course of their relationship. Will her old boyfriend be forgiving of her behavior during their time apart? Is she still drawn to the bad boy? Will they rekindle their romance? I can't wait to read book two.
I abolutely loved this book! Mel is an inexperienced teenager when she feels almost instantly drawn to the bad boy. Despite everyone warning her, she embarks on a relationship that may or may not be good for them both. Circumstances and more interference from others helps direct the course of their relationship. Will her old boyfriend be forgiving of her behavior during their time apart? Is she still drawn to the bad boy? Will they rekindle their romance? I can't wait to read book two.
March 30, 2014
Although it was a slow start, I really ended up liking this story. The first half was better than the second half, but all in all it was a good book. My personal opinion? Melissa should dump and totally forget about both Sandy and Arien and find someone new with less arrogance. Still, I'm intrigued to know what happens. Maybe one of them will redeem themselves enough to me and I will forgive them lol
June 19, 2014
This is a book about first love, & the pain & drama & teen angst that seems to go hand in hand with teen love. Our main character, Melissa, thinks she has everything she wants when she begins dating Sandy, the football star...until she meets Arien, who is kind of a loner. They fall in love, & he begins to control her life, her friends, all to the point where she is completely dependent on him. Then he betrays her...
Read this book by Melissa Mayberry! Its fantastic!
Read this book by Melissa Mayberry! Its fantastic!
June 19, 2014
I liked this book I mean it wasn't something I normally would read, I usually require more fantasy, action, and romance but really this book was good. It was well written and I read it in one sitting. It went at an even pace and kept me right there. Like I said it's a good book just not my usual read. I am looking forward to reading the next one because I need to know what happens with their story. This book hits on many issues affecting teens these days.
March 11, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I loved it and couldn't put it down till I was done. Strong characters and story line as well. You will love to read about the story between Melissa and Sandy and the turmoil that they go through with the break up. Melissa falls for bad boy Arien and he crushes her love and life. Will Sandy fight for his girl or leave her to her fate?
June 5, 2016
Stopped reading at 16%.
I couldn't get interested in this story. I was skimming more than reading. It wasn't badly written, it just wasn't for me. I received this book as an ARC for a honest review. SQ
I couldn't get interested in this story. I was skimming more than reading. It wasn't badly written, it just wasn't for me. I received this book as an ARC for a honest review. SQ
March 15, 2018
Ms. Mayberry's book illustrates all too sadly how teenagers today are experiencing things that are way over their heads. When they should be studying for college entrance tests and taking Advanced Placement classes, the characters in this book are drinking and having underage sex. Their innocence is destroyed due to lack of parental supervision. Melissa, the main character, is enticed by a strange guy, Arien, who is friends with her cousin. Even though she has the superstar Sandy as a boyfriend, she allows herself to be seduced by a guy everyone warns her against.
The seduction turns into obsession as she is unprepared for the intense rollercoaster of feelings Arien dishes up to her, alternatively sweet and caring versus distant and strange. Things fall apart when Arien's dark secret is revealed and Melissa descends into a self-destructive spiral. Her mother belatedly starts caring about her, but the struggle for day to day survival is so difficult that it looks as if Melissa cannot recover. Broken and discarded, Melissa hits bottom before she is able to slowly pull herself back to a sense of normalcy.
The message for teens is to hold onto your innocence longer, and do not enter the soap-opera grownup world while your emotions are so fragile and unstable. The experiences described are traumatic and parents are advised to screen this book for younger teens.
The seduction turns into obsession as she is unprepared for the intense rollercoaster of feelings Arien dishes up to her, alternatively sweet and caring versus distant and strange. Things fall apart when Arien's dark secret is revealed and Melissa descends into a self-destructive spiral. Her mother belatedly starts caring about her, but the struggle for day to day survival is so difficult that it looks as if Melissa cannot recover. Broken and discarded, Melissa hits bottom before she is able to slowly pull herself back to a sense of normalcy.
The message for teens is to hold onto your innocence longer, and do not enter the soap-opera grownup world while your emotions are so fragile and unstable. The experiences described are traumatic and parents are advised to screen this book for younger teens.
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