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Love Request
When Ciara Littleton takes the plunge and finally joins Facebook to socialize without the limits that her hearing impairment gives her, on a whim, she looks up a childhood friend. In sending him that first message, she ignites the memories of a crush from twenty years ago. But can a simple friend request fix all that stands between them and lead to something more?
Hunter has a lot on his plate. A recent divorce, a pregnant sister, and now, he realizes he's in love with a woman who lives states away. Can he overcome the boundaries of Internet romance to make this desire turn into something real, or will adversity and distance be their undoing--adversity being in the form of his very own sister--the woman who bullied Ciara so mercilessly long ago?
This book was formerly titled A Facebook Affair and has been revised with a new ending.
Hunter has a lot on his plate. A recent divorce, a pregnant sister, and now, he realizes he's in love with a woman who lives states away. Can he overcome the boundaries of Internet romance to make this desire turn into something real, or will adversity and distance be their undoing--adversity being in the form of his very own sister--the woman who bullied Ciara so mercilessly long ago?
This book was formerly titled A Facebook Affair and has been revised with a new ending.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
130 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2011
1 person is currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Tara Chevrestt
25 books314 followersTara Chevrestt is a deaf woman, aviation mechanic, and dog mom. She loves vintage clothes and period dramas and wishes she could time travel. You’ll never see her without her Kindle or a book within reach. As a child, she would often take a flashlight under the covers to finish the recent Nancy Drew novel when she was supposed to be sleeping.
She no longer writes books, but you can still read her thoughts and opinions on books and movies and articles on women's issues on her blog.
She no longer writes books, but you can still read her thoughts and opinions on books and movies and articles on women's issues on her blog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 30, 2011
From the off, I declare that I am a friend of the author, Tara Chevrestt, but that in no way affects my review.
I wavered between awarding three and four stars for this book, but the emotion of the closing chapters and the epilogue swung my rating in the positive direction.
Tara very obviously draws on her own life experiences in the writing of A Facebook Affair. When you read Deaf Isn't Dumb (expected publication date: 27th April 2012), you will understand what I mean.
There are plenty of lessons woven into the story which will help readers to understand how they can help hearing-impaired people to fully participate in conversations. There are also some powerful messages about the viciousness of prejudice and bullying amongst children. We have all had some experience of that!
Kelly is feeling the emptiness which follows the death of her mother after a long battle against cancer during which Kelly has neglected her social life to look after her Mom. Her best friend, Tammy, arm-twists her into signing up to Facebook with the clear objective of finding a boyfriend and getting laid.
It is not long before Kelly has found Brandon, a classmate from her second and third grade (8-9 years old) at school. She remembers Brandon as the only fellow pupil who was kind to her during those early days.
It is not my idea of what I would call a Facebook affair, as it is more like an online reunion followed by some online chat, which leads to a face-to-face meeting. A romance ensues, and that gets serious. There is no online affair.
There are some delicately, yet warmly, described sex scenes, but no profanity.
The story flips back and forth through time between childhood and adulthood. In many of the books tthat I have read, this irritates me, and it has to be very well written to work. It surprised me that Tara adopted this approach, as she has previously openly declared that time-flipping also irritates her, but it was absolutely necessary for the story to work. Kelly's childhood recollections serve to explain many of the adulthood events. Well done to the author for taking that bold step and for making it work so well.
There are quite a few American English words and expressions scattered throughout the book, which had me reaching for the dictionary. I add this as a small warning to non-American readers, but it could not be any other way. Both the author, and more importantly, the characters, are American. To set you on your way, if you are not from the US of A, bleachers means benches and bangs means a [hair] fringe.
This is a really great little novella romance, and I recommend that you take some time out to read it.
I wavered between awarding three and four stars for this book, but the emotion of the closing chapters and the epilogue swung my rating in the positive direction.
Tara very obviously draws on her own life experiences in the writing of A Facebook Affair. When you read Deaf Isn't Dumb (expected publication date: 27th April 2012), you will understand what I mean.
There are plenty of lessons woven into the story which will help readers to understand how they can help hearing-impaired people to fully participate in conversations. There are also some powerful messages about the viciousness of prejudice and bullying amongst children. We have all had some experience of that!
Kelly is feeling the emptiness which follows the death of her mother after a long battle against cancer during which Kelly has neglected her social life to look after her Mom. Her best friend, Tammy, arm-twists her into signing up to Facebook with the clear objective of finding a boyfriend and getting laid.
It is not long before Kelly has found Brandon, a classmate from her second and third grade (8-9 years old) at school. She remembers Brandon as the only fellow pupil who was kind to her during those early days.
It is not my idea of what I would call a Facebook affair, as it is more like an online reunion followed by some online chat, which leads to a face-to-face meeting. A romance ensues, and that gets serious. There is no online affair.
There are some delicately, yet warmly, described sex scenes, but no profanity.
The story flips back and forth through time between childhood and adulthood. In many of the books tthat I have read, this irritates me, and it has to be very well written to work. It surprised me that Tara adopted this approach, as she has previously openly declared that time-flipping also irritates her, but it was absolutely necessary for the story to work. Kelly's childhood recollections serve to explain many of the adulthood events. Well done to the author for taking that bold step and for making it work so well.
There are quite a few American English words and expressions scattered throughout the book, which had me reaching for the dictionary. I add this as a small warning to non-American readers, but it could not be any other way. Both the author, and more importantly, the characters, are American. To set you on your way, if you are not from the US of A, bleachers means benches and bangs means a [hair] fringe.
This is a really great little novella romance, and I recommend that you take some time out to read it.
December 27, 2011
This short book is a sweet romance wrapped around a story about bullying and overcoming adversity. The protagonist, Kelly, lost her hearing when she was very young, and a couple of the mean girls at school decide to pick on her. But there is a cute little boy who seems to like Kelly, never mind that one of the mean girls is his twin sister.
The story alternates between schoolgirl Kelly and young adult Kelly, and Kelly's past catches up with her. Well, with a little help from social media and egging on by best friend Tammy.
This is a fun, quick read, nicely written and thoroughly enjoyable. There is some sex thrown in with that romance, and very mild profanity. Best of all, it shows what life can be like for someone who isn't exactly like everyone else.
Full disclosure: the up-and-coming author is a very good friend of mine.
The story alternates between schoolgirl Kelly and young adult Kelly, and Kelly's past catches up with her. Well, with a little help from social media and egging on by best friend Tammy.
This is a fun, quick read, nicely written and thoroughly enjoyable. There is some sex thrown in with that romance, and very mild profanity. Best of all, it shows what life can be like for someone who isn't exactly like everyone else.
Full disclosure: the up-and-coming author is a very good friend of mine.
August 11, 2016
This is the first romance I’ve read by this author and I loved it. Kelly is hearing impaired and I felt instant empathy, especially when we could see the scenes where she was bullied in grade school. Kelly and Brandon’s romance is smoothly intertwined and develops through Facebook, although they knew each other back when they were small. In fact, he’s recently divorced from one of the mean girls which causes some problems. Kelly is courageous and sweet and I was rooting for her right from page one. Some parts are very poignant as she tackles real issues related to her deafness, and a couple of the schoolkids are downright horrible. But there were some funny moments too--I read A Facebook Affair in one sitting. Not only was it enjoyable but it left me more aware. Highly recommended!
July 28, 2013
This book was just too freakin’ sweet, good and strings tugging at the heart all rolled up into one. The amount of times I said “aww” or “damn that’s sad” was just endless. Sorry, I’m kind of getting ahead of myself here. Let me give you a backdrop and then I’ll gush about how GREAT this book was.
“Love Request” by Tara Chevrestt tells the story of Ciara Littleton. You first meet Ciara as a young girl starting her first day at a new school. Like we remember...or not, the first day was hell. Trying to fit in and make new friends. Of course, no matter what you do or how nice you can be, you will always encounter the bullies. In this case, Ciara encounters the mean girls. I’m sorry, but I forgot to mention, Ciara is hearing impaired. The mean girls are Lindsey and Caitlin. Because of Ciara’s difference, decide to bully her all throughout the second grade. The silver lining for Ciara came in the way of Hunter Reaves (Lindsey’s twin brother). He is the cute little blonde boy who saw Ciara as a cool girl that didn’t have cooties (too cute!)
Fast forward to present day and Ciara is living in her own world...alone ...now with the passing of her mother. With the help and perseverance of her friend Tammy, she convinces Ciara to join Facebook to look up family and old friends. One day gorgeous Hunter happens to cross her mind so she decides to look him up. Sure enough he’s got a Facebook page (honestly, who doesn’t in this day in age). After connecting they start up their friendship and more from 20+ yrs. prior.
The story in itself was simple and to the point: Lost love, overcoming adversity and finding love all over again. I liked how the author alternated between Ciara’s times at school to present day, somewhat of a foreshadowing. Now if you read my last 2 reviews, I’m not the biggest fan of 3rd person narration, because I always feel disconnected from the characters. Well with this story I felt the complete opposite. I felt like I knew them since we were kids and the crap Ciara had to endure. Ciara grew up to be such a strong minded and fearless woman. She saw something (or someone) and went for it. Hunter is just all kinds of sexy, sweet, endearing and just overall great guy.
I thought these two together were a strong book couple. There are a few plot twists in the story that try to deter them from being together, but they look at it and just knock it down like it wasn’t even there. You can tell these two had such a fondness for one another that no amount of crap would stop them. There is this one scene with them as kids that stuck out at me. Hunter gives Ciara a gift, what was written had to be the sweetest thing I read in a book. That was one of the parts that made me said “aww”. Sorry, I’m such a sucker for the sweet stuff.
We all go through adversity in some form or another, but when you have someone in your life that overlooks the adversity and sees the person for what they are on the inside is always a stand up kind of a person. This book was really good. I enjoyed every part of it. The only thing that I wanted was for the story to be longer, but other than that it’s just a great story with a great message. 4 out of 5 from me!
SMIBookClub received an ARC of Love Request in exchange for an honest review.
“Love Request” by Tara Chevrestt tells the story of Ciara Littleton. You first meet Ciara as a young girl starting her first day at a new school. Like we remember...or not, the first day was hell. Trying to fit in and make new friends. Of course, no matter what you do or how nice you can be, you will always encounter the bullies. In this case, Ciara encounters the mean girls. I’m sorry, but I forgot to mention, Ciara is hearing impaired. The mean girls are Lindsey and Caitlin. Because of Ciara’s difference, decide to bully her all throughout the second grade. The silver lining for Ciara came in the way of Hunter Reaves (Lindsey’s twin brother). He is the cute little blonde boy who saw Ciara as a cool girl that didn’t have cooties (too cute!)
Fast forward to present day and Ciara is living in her own world...alone ...now with the passing of her mother. With the help and perseverance of her friend Tammy, she convinces Ciara to join Facebook to look up family and old friends. One day gorgeous Hunter happens to cross her mind so she decides to look him up. Sure enough he’s got a Facebook page (honestly, who doesn’t in this day in age). After connecting they start up their friendship and more from 20+ yrs. prior.
The story in itself was simple and to the point: Lost love, overcoming adversity and finding love all over again. I liked how the author alternated between Ciara’s times at school to present day, somewhat of a foreshadowing. Now if you read my last 2 reviews, I’m not the biggest fan of 3rd person narration, because I always feel disconnected from the characters. Well with this story I felt the complete opposite. I felt like I knew them since we were kids and the crap Ciara had to endure. Ciara grew up to be such a strong minded and fearless woman. She saw something (or someone) and went for it. Hunter is just all kinds of sexy, sweet, endearing and just overall great guy.
I thought these two together were a strong book couple. There are a few plot twists in the story that try to deter them from being together, but they look at it and just knock it down like it wasn’t even there. You can tell these two had such a fondness for one another that no amount of crap would stop them. There is this one scene with them as kids that stuck out at me. Hunter gives Ciara a gift, what was written had to be the sweetest thing I read in a book. That was one of the parts that made me said “aww”. Sorry, I’m such a sucker for the sweet stuff.
We all go through adversity in some form or another, but when you have someone in your life that overlooks the adversity and sees the person for what they are on the inside is always a stand up kind of a person. This book was really good. I enjoyed every part of it. The only thing that I wanted was for the story to be longer, but other than that it’s just a great story with a great message. 4 out of 5 from me!
SMIBookClub received an ARC of Love Request in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2012
Kelly Littleton is a hearing-impaired journalist residing in Utah. She is grieving the death of her mother and wondering about her future. Since she has spent the last few years taking care of her ailing mother, she hasn't had much of a social life. Her girlfriend Tammy is there for her, and prods her into joining Facebook in an effort to increase her socialization skills and perhaps find new friends. Kelly doesn't have too many fond memories of her childhood, but she does remember one specific person that was always kind to her, Brandon Hopkins. So she decides to see if he's on Facebook and attempts to reconnect.
Brandon is now a real estate agent and still in Oklahoma. He's getting a divorce from his wife and trying to help his pregnant sister, Lindsey, since her husband has been deployed overseas. Brandon is still a nice guy and he and Kelly launch an intense friendship via Facebook messaging, emails and online chats.
A Facebook Affair is a quick and short read that provides drama, angst and romance. The angst is found in Kelly's childhood memories of her Second and Third grade experiences with Brandon and the resident mean girls. The story swings between the present and those childhood experiences. The drama is found with her return to Oklahoma to spend time with Brandon and meeting his parents and sister, former mean girl Lindsey. The romance builds quickly between Brandon and Kelly, starting with their Facebook connection. Ms. Chevrestt provides an interesting read that deals with the issue of childhood bullying, being disabled and perceived to be less than human, along with the romance angle. Unfortunately the issue of bullying isn't resolved in Kelly's childhood and she retains some of those fears as an adult. The characters are reasonably well-developed and the action is very fast but believable. My only "concern" is that Kelly and Brandon's relationship goes from a sweet techno-romance to full-blown passion with little romance once they reconnect face-to-face. If you're looking for a fast-paced happily-ever-after read, then A Facebook Affair will not disappoint.
Brandon is now a real estate agent and still in Oklahoma. He's getting a divorce from his wife and trying to help his pregnant sister, Lindsey, since her husband has been deployed overseas. Brandon is still a nice guy and he and Kelly launch an intense friendship via Facebook messaging, emails and online chats.
A Facebook Affair is a quick and short read that provides drama, angst and romance. The angst is found in Kelly's childhood memories of her Second and Third grade experiences with Brandon and the resident mean girls. The story swings between the present and those childhood experiences. The drama is found with her return to Oklahoma to spend time with Brandon and meeting his parents and sister, former mean girl Lindsey. The romance builds quickly between Brandon and Kelly, starting with their Facebook connection. Ms. Chevrestt provides an interesting read that deals with the issue of childhood bullying, being disabled and perceived to be less than human, along with the romance angle. Unfortunately the issue of bullying isn't resolved in Kelly's childhood and she retains some of those fears as an adult. The characters are reasonably well-developed and the action is very fast but believable. My only "concern" is that Kelly and Brandon's relationship goes from a sweet techno-romance to full-blown passion with little romance once they reconnect face-to-face. If you're looking for a fast-paced happily-ever-after read, then A Facebook Affair will not disappoint.
January 25, 2013
Love Request is a refreshing and realistic view on how an old love can be rekindled with a little help from modern technology. Ciara is a hearing impaired woman dealing with the loss of her mother. Hunter is a guy on the rebound after ending a bad marriage. Years ago they knew each other as children and thanks to face book, they find each other once again. Conversations start out casual but soon things begin to heat up and there is talk of a meeting. But this novel isn't all happy reunions. Back in school, Hunter's twin sister made Ciara's life a nightmare and she hasn't mellowed with age. She is dead set against Hunter and Ciara getting together and she'll do whatever it takes to make sure it doesn't happen.
Love Request is one of those stories that just draws you into the pages. The author has a great style that makes you feel you can relate to the characters. In this book, you not only experience the current blossoming romance on face book, you are also taken back in several scenes to their life as children. You experience how Ciara was taunted first hand and how Hunter became the knight in shining armor she just couldn't forget. Not even after twenty years. I was really impressed with the way the author was able to realistically get into the mind of an eight-year-old, yet still keep this novel at a adult reading level that not only held my attention but had me so glued to the pages I read it in one sitting.
There are a few mild sex scenes, but for the most part, Love Request is a sweet romance that won't have you blushing if someone catches you reading it. Well written prose, heart-felt characters, and a cute storyline with a surprising twist make this book a five star novel all the way.
Love Request is one of those stories that just draws you into the pages. The author has a great style that makes you feel you can relate to the characters. In this book, you not only experience the current blossoming romance on face book, you are also taken back in several scenes to their life as children. You experience how Ciara was taunted first hand and how Hunter became the knight in shining armor she just couldn't forget. Not even after twenty years. I was really impressed with the way the author was able to realistically get into the mind of an eight-year-old, yet still keep this novel at a adult reading level that not only held my attention but had me so glued to the pages I read it in one sitting.
There are a few mild sex scenes, but for the most part, Love Request is a sweet romance that won't have you blushing if someone catches you reading it. Well written prose, heart-felt characters, and a cute storyline with a surprising twist make this book a five star novel all the way.
January 25, 2013
Love Request is a refreshing and realistic view on how an old love can be rekindled with a little help from modern technology. Ciara is a hearing impaired woman dealing with the loss of her mother. Hunter is a guy on the rebound after ending a bad marriage. Years ago they knew each other as children and thanks to face book, they find each other once again. Conversations start out casual but soon things begin to heat up and there is talk of a meeting. But this novel isn't all happy reunions. Back in school, Hunter's twin sister made Ciara's life a nightmare and she hasn't mellowed with age. She is dead set against Hunter and Ciara getting together and she'll do whatever it takes to make sure it doesn't happen.
Love Request is one of those stories that just draws you into the pages. The author has a great style that makes you feel you can relate to the characters. In this book, you not only experience the current blossoming romance on face book, you are also taken back in several scenes to their life as children. You experience how Ciara was taunted first hand and how Hunter became the knight in shining armor she just couldn't forget. Not even after twenty years. I was really impressed with the way the author was able to realistically get into the mind of an eight-year-old, yet still keep this novel at a adult reading level that not only held my attention but had me so glued to the pages I read it in one sitting.
There are a few mild sex scenes, but for the most part, Love Request is a sweet romance that won't have you blushing if someone catches you reading it. Well written prose, heart-felt characters, and a cute storyline with a surprising twist make this book a five star novel all the way.
Love Request is one of those stories that just draws you into the pages. The author has a great style that makes you feel you can relate to the characters. In this book, you not only experience the current blossoming romance on face book, you are also taken back in several scenes to their life as children. You experience how Ciara was taunted first hand and how Hunter became the knight in shining armor she just couldn't forget. Not even after twenty years. I was really impressed with the way the author was able to realistically get into the mind of an eight-year-old, yet still keep this novel at a adult reading level that not only held my attention but had me so glued to the pages I read it in one sitting.
There are a few mild sex scenes, but for the most part, Love Request is a sweet romance that won't have you blushing if someone catches you reading it. Well written prose, heart-felt characters, and a cute storyline with a surprising twist make this book a five star novel all the way.
July 28, 2013
This story raises some issues with Bullying, as well as Hearing Loss. It takes you on a journey With Ciara who we meet in the first chapter when she enters a new school in grade 2. Ciara is hearing impaired, we see first hand what she is dealt with, when a couple of other girls in the class begin to bully her because she is different.(or so they think she is).
Then we jump ahead 20 yrs and Ciara is dealing with the loss of her mother to cancer. She is living her life the best she can. She has co-worker’s who are her friends and that is about it. Tammy her friend convinces her she needs to get on facebook and try to reacquaint herself with old friends from school.
We travel through present and past in this story as we see how Ciara was bullied in 2nd and 3rd grade and who she developed a crush on through it all. Thanks to modern technology Ciara finds Hunter her old crush from 3rd grade on Facebook. In the present we get to see Hunter and Ciara communicate first through facebook then meet again in real life after 20 yrs.
Hunter is dealing with a recent divorce. Thanks to facebook He gets a message from Ciara . When he realizes who it is he is all for talking to her and finding out what she has been up to all these years.
I love how Tara kept the story pleasant and romantic while dealing with the aspects of Ciara being bullied. She did a fabulous job of bringing forth some info on hearing impaired so people would understand it a little bit more.
Over all I thought this was a fun romantic read. I was drawn in from the first page and read it in one day. I don’t want to give a whole lot away as you need to experience it yourself without the spoilers.
February 12, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest and unbiased review. I absolutely loved this story. The author captures your attention right from page one. I have read a couple of books by this particular author and it is refreshing to see how much of herself that she puts into the story. You can feel that she is giving you all of the emotions that she may have felt growing up. Kids are cruel. We all have some situations that we were in. Always odd man out we you the fat kid, the nerd, the poor kid,or the kid sitting in the wheelchair. I for one have been there. I loved how the character reconnect with that one person who just came up to you and said hi. Disability aside treated you like you were someone special. This was a fast paced story with heart. The author had you wanting to beat down the group of mean kids on the playground you know who they are were you one of them. The way the character reconnected with the guy all the way in her past from second grade was heartfelt and tragedy. I love the twist the author gave for the ex-wife and sister. Then to see that when you have to possibly walk in the same shoes as the person you tormented relentlessly the one person is there for you without question. I highly recommend this amazing story.
February 3, 2012
Points of this book I love? For one I love the fact the relationship sparks off the internet without being from a dating website. My husband and I met online, and no, it wasn't a dating website. So watching their flirtation grow through their messages puts a smile on my face because I remember what it was like.
I also love the fact the heroine is hearing impaired. I once had a reader complain that she wished more hero/ines had to face handicaps and impairment challenges. The reader herself was mute. She felt small and less worthy when she read about all these perfect characters. I e-mailed her to let her know about this book and she was thrilled! I recommend this book to anyone who has a friend or family member who is hearing impaired. My father is deaf and, growing up, I never thought much of it. To me, it was normal lifestyle. But reading this book and what the heroine goes through really puts things in to perspective the struggles he must face every day that we take for granted.
This is certainly a Must Read on my list!
I also love the fact the heroine is hearing impaired. I once had a reader complain that she wished more hero/ines had to face handicaps and impairment challenges. The reader herself was mute. She felt small and less worthy when she read about all these perfect characters. I e-mailed her to let her know about this book and she was thrilled! I recommend this book to anyone who has a friend or family member who is hearing impaired. My father is deaf and, growing up, I never thought much of it. To me, it was normal lifestyle. But reading this book and what the heroine goes through really puts things in to perspective the struggles he must face every day that we take for granted.
This is certainly a Must Read on my list!
December 18, 2011
"A Facebook Affair" is a wonderful story that had me hooked from start to finish. You can’t help but empathise with the heroine, who is hearing impaired, and she really tugs at your heartstrings. Right from page one, I so wanted her to have her ‘happy ever after’! The hero is gorgeous too – not just physically, but one of those warm-hearted men who’s almost too good to be true. And this is a truly modern tale, romance via Facebook, that has the potential to turn into so much more if only the heroine dares to trust her instincts … I don’t want to do any spoilers, you’ll just have to read it for yourself to find out what happens – a brilliant read! Highly recommended.
Read
December 10, 2011This book made me cry, it made me laugh, it made me mad, and the sex wasn't too much. I think you did a good job Tara. I think people can learn from this book. It makes one think of all the things we take for granted as normal hearing people. I know first hand the difficulties you faced growing up it was hard. However, I have to say you have over came and I am so proud of the person you have become.
April 14, 2013
I must say, I love this story!! I love that the author created a strong character that happened to be hearing impaired. There is so much that hearing people do not realize about the hearing impaired or deaf people.
I love the connection that Ciara and Hunter had right from the start and even though it took 20 years for them to find each other again, they still had that connection. Who knew Facebook was good for finding love?
I love the connection that Ciara and Hunter had right from the start and even though it took 20 years for them to find each other again, they still had that connection. Who knew Facebook was good for finding love?
March 1, 2012
Journalist Kelly Littleton has been taking care of her mother for the past five years and now feels lost and depressed after her mom’s death. Kelly has spent all of her spare time with her mom and because she is hearing-impaired, she has a hard time making friends. Kelly’s co-worker Tammy thinks Kelly needs to meet more people and convinces her to set up a Facebook account. Kelly soon reconnects with childhood friend Brandon Hopkins. Brandon and Kelly begin to correspond online, and Kelly finds that being able to send messages through Facebook is wonderful since her deafness doesn’t get in the way of communicating online. Before long, it looks like Kelly’s friendship with Brandon could even grow into something more, unless old heartaches from childhood get in the way.
The book alternates between the present and Kelly’s life in the second and third grades when she first met Brandon, and this method is an effective way to tell this story. Brandon was Kelly’s only friend in elementary school when everyone else either ignored her or bullied her. Kelly had the most problems with two popular girls, Caitlin and Lindsey, who made an already self-conscious Kelly feel like an outcast. Brandon was the only bright spot in her two years attending school in Enid, Oklahoma. When Kelly and Brandon meet again, she sees that he has grown up to be as kind and thoughtful (and handsome!) as he was as a child. It’s clear Brandon cares about Kelly and wants to understand what Kelly goes through everyday to cope with her deafness.
Through the narrative and Kelly’s conversations with Brandon, the reader sees some of the day-to-day things Kelly faces that the hearing world takes for granted. It is very interesting to see how Kelly is able to perform everyday tasks such as waking up on time for work or knowing someone has rung the doorbell. (Both the doorbell and the alarm clock are attached to a device under her mattress that shakes.) These details add realism to the story and educate the reader.
While Kelly and Brandon click right away and seem to be just what the other is looking for, but they have some substantial obstacles to overcome. While I was glad to see they both were quick to admit their feelings toward one another without any coy game-playing, it is realistic that not everything would fall right into place after being out of touch for twenty years. Kelly’s deafness doesn’t seem to be an issue, but they do live in two different towns. However, it’s their pasts that threaten their current happiness. One of the major issues they must deal with is one of girls that bullied Kelly is Brandon’s sister. The way this plays out rings true and isn’t given a pat solution just to move the story forward.
One thing that doesn’t make sense to me is that Brandon seems to be the only true friend Kelly has ever had and she only attended school with him for two years. Kelly is attractive, intelligent, and is able to read lips and speak, so it seems a little unbelievable that she wouldn’t have made friends at any of her other elementary schools or high school.
The idea of Kelly and Brandon getting to know each other again through Facebook messages give this love story a modern flavor. The fact that Kelly is hearing-impaired makes what sounds like a basic storyline even richer. Kelly has the confidence to share her feelings with Brandon online that she would have been uncomfortable trying to discuss face-to-face, especially since she hasn’t seen him in many years. They make a wonderful couple and there is friendship, romance, and passion in their newfound relationship.
There are a couple different twists at the end of the book that both strengthen and put Kelly and Brandon’s relationship to the test. I saw one coming, but not the other, and both plot turns are well-done and engaging. “A Facebook Affair” is a quick read that is entertaining and romantic and is told in an interesting way. I can’t think of a book I have read recently that has a main character who is deaf, and I enjoyed reading a well-written story told from this unique point of view.
This review originally appeared in the The Season EZine. A copy of the book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
The book alternates between the present and Kelly’s life in the second and third grades when she first met Brandon, and this method is an effective way to tell this story. Brandon was Kelly’s only friend in elementary school when everyone else either ignored her or bullied her. Kelly had the most problems with two popular girls, Caitlin and Lindsey, who made an already self-conscious Kelly feel like an outcast. Brandon was the only bright spot in her two years attending school in Enid, Oklahoma. When Kelly and Brandon meet again, she sees that he has grown up to be as kind and thoughtful (and handsome!) as he was as a child. It’s clear Brandon cares about Kelly and wants to understand what Kelly goes through everyday to cope with her deafness.
Through the narrative and Kelly’s conversations with Brandon, the reader sees some of the day-to-day things Kelly faces that the hearing world takes for granted. It is very interesting to see how Kelly is able to perform everyday tasks such as waking up on time for work or knowing someone has rung the doorbell. (Both the doorbell and the alarm clock are attached to a device under her mattress that shakes.) These details add realism to the story and educate the reader.
While Kelly and Brandon click right away and seem to be just what the other is looking for, but they have some substantial obstacles to overcome. While I was glad to see they both were quick to admit their feelings toward one another without any coy game-playing, it is realistic that not everything would fall right into place after being out of touch for twenty years. Kelly’s deafness doesn’t seem to be an issue, but they do live in two different towns. However, it’s their pasts that threaten their current happiness. One of the major issues they must deal with is one of girls that bullied Kelly is Brandon’s sister. The way this plays out rings true and isn’t given a pat solution just to move the story forward.
One thing that doesn’t make sense to me is that Brandon seems to be the only true friend Kelly has ever had and she only attended school with him for two years. Kelly is attractive, intelligent, and is able to read lips and speak, so it seems a little unbelievable that she wouldn’t have made friends at any of her other elementary schools or high school.
The idea of Kelly and Brandon getting to know each other again through Facebook messages give this love story a modern flavor. The fact that Kelly is hearing-impaired makes what sounds like a basic storyline even richer. Kelly has the confidence to share her feelings with Brandon online that she would have been uncomfortable trying to discuss face-to-face, especially since she hasn’t seen him in many years. They make a wonderful couple and there is friendship, romance, and passion in their newfound relationship.
There are a couple different twists at the end of the book that both strengthen and put Kelly and Brandon’s relationship to the test. I saw one coming, but not the other, and both plot turns are well-done and engaging. “A Facebook Affair” is a quick read that is entertaining and romantic and is told in an interesting way. I can’t think of a book I have read recently that has a main character who is deaf, and I enjoyed reading a well-written story told from this unique point of view.
This review originally appeared in the The Season EZine. A copy of the book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2013
A heartwarming story .
Ciara Littleton developed deafness at four years old. The author doesn't explain exactly what happened, just points out that at the time of her hearing loss, at least she had passed the first stage of learning to speak, thus making a little easy.
If a child has bullied when she arrives at a new school, imagine one that has this problem. In the beginning few girls decided that Ciara would be the target of jokes and teasing.And that happened when they were still in second grade.
Caitlin and Lindsey were the queens of the school. No girl liked to alienate them. Therefore , Ciara stood alone for long time.
But one person dared to challenge these two girls. And coincidentally, he was Lindsey's twin brother, Hunter .
The moments that Ciara went with him were magic . He not only involved with her, as always remembered she needed to talk looking directly at her, so she could read his lips. Ciara did not communicate through sign language. She wore hearing aids and lip reading.
Along two years Ciara lived between the anguish of pranks Lindsey and Caitlin , and good times with Hunter. Until her father was offered a better job and they had to move to another state .
Twenty years later, Ciara is a journalist. Her parents had divorced a few years after the move, and when she was in college, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and lost the battle after long five years.
No family and few friends, Ciara was advised by her friend Tammy trying to live a little, especially after spending so much time between school and caring mother. One way to meet someone without going through all that awful first meeting and see that the guy does not feel comfortable with someone who wears hearing aids? Open a Facebook account (hence why the first title ) .
When she finally gives in, she remembers the old school friend and decides to look for his profile. Profile finding, message sent, message answered with a request to add new friend.
From there the two exchange messages daily, until Hunter decides to go visit her in Utah, where she was living.
The meeting was better than they could imagine and they began to have a more stable relationship.
But how would be the reunion with his sister ? Face a part of a past that she wanted to leave behind?
Lindsey was seven months pregnant, with her husband fighting in Afghanistan when she discovers that Hunter and Ciara got together. At first she does not like the idea, still wanting her brother does not undo his marriage to her best friend. But fate can create some pieces in one's life and just maybe, Lindsey and Ciara have passed much more than just Hunter as something in common ...
Characters more than perfect. The way the author presented each life Ciara's stage, all she suffered, it is so strong, and yet so delicate, that you almost can feel her pain.
The connection to the characters was immediate.
The pace of the story is very good. Each chapter always begins with a scene from their past, especially what happened in school, persecution she suffered.
Positive point: even with the whole issue of bullying, the author did not send a grudge over the pages. She showed only part of what a person with a hearing problem that Ciara has, and having to survive all this during childhood and adolescence (two phases in which people can be pretty bad), suffers.
Negative point: whenever caught a good book to read, I complain when it's short ...
5 STARS
Ciara Littleton developed deafness at four years old. The author doesn't explain exactly what happened, just points out that at the time of her hearing loss, at least she had passed the first stage of learning to speak, thus making a little easy.
If a child has bullied when she arrives at a new school, imagine one that has this problem. In the beginning few girls decided that Ciara would be the target of jokes and teasing.And that happened when they were still in second grade.
Caitlin and Lindsey were the queens of the school. No girl liked to alienate them. Therefore , Ciara stood alone for long time.
But one person dared to challenge these two girls. And coincidentally, he was Lindsey's twin brother, Hunter .
The moments that Ciara went with him were magic . He not only involved with her, as always remembered she needed to talk looking directly at her, so she could read his lips. Ciara did not communicate through sign language. She wore hearing aids and lip reading.
Along two years Ciara lived between the anguish of pranks Lindsey and Caitlin , and good times with Hunter. Until her father was offered a better job and they had to move to another state .
Twenty years later, Ciara is a journalist. Her parents had divorced a few years after the move, and when she was in college, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and lost the battle after long five years.
No family and few friends, Ciara was advised by her friend Tammy trying to live a little, especially after spending so much time between school and caring mother. One way to meet someone without going through all that awful first meeting and see that the guy does not feel comfortable with someone who wears hearing aids? Open a Facebook account (hence why the first title ) .
When she finally gives in, she remembers the old school friend and decides to look for his profile. Profile finding, message sent, message answered with a request to add new friend.
From there the two exchange messages daily, until Hunter decides to go visit her in Utah, where she was living.
The meeting was better than they could imagine and they began to have a more stable relationship.
But how would be the reunion with his sister ? Face a part of a past that she wanted to leave behind?
Lindsey was seven months pregnant, with her husband fighting in Afghanistan when she discovers that Hunter and Ciara got together. At first she does not like the idea, still wanting her brother does not undo his marriage to her best friend. But fate can create some pieces in one's life and just maybe, Lindsey and Ciara have passed much more than just Hunter as something in common ...
Characters more than perfect. The way the author presented each life Ciara's stage, all she suffered, it is so strong, and yet so delicate, that you almost can feel her pain.
The connection to the characters was immediate.
The pace of the story is very good. Each chapter always begins with a scene from their past, especially what happened in school, persecution she suffered.
Positive point: even with the whole issue of bullying, the author did not send a grudge over the pages. She showed only part of what a person with a hearing problem that Ciara has, and having to survive all this during childhood and adolescence (two phases in which people can be pretty bad), suffers.
Negative point: whenever caught a good book to read, I complain when it's short ...
5 STARS
January 30, 2012
I LOVED this story. Once I started reading it was hard to put down. Kelly is hearing impaired. She relies on hearing aids and reading lips to navigate in the world. She’s not your average heroine and I adored her.
She didn’t make excuses, she didn’t hide who she was, but embraced what she could and couldn’t do. Kelly lived an active and full life. She had a job, an apartment, friends and getting a glimpse into her life and the prejudices she faced on a daily basis was priceless.
There was one point in the story when Brandon asked Kelly what she liked to do. Going to a movie theater wasn’t high on her list, one because not all theaters offer closed captioning, and snuggled on the couch is the best way to view a movie. I totally agree. I’m visually impaired and only see maybe 50% of any movie I view in the theater and I only go because it makes my family happy.
I loved the flashbacks. Without them I don’t think the story would’ve been as rich and in-depth as it was. Reading the glimpses into her childhood days allowed the reader to see the three people who impacted her the most. Brandon, Lindsay and Caitlin.
Lindsay and Caitlin. Give me a moment because there were a few times I found myself fussing at my Kindle. Nope I did not like those two little girls. They were mean and selfish and I lumped then in the same category as the Evil Queen from Once Upon a Time. Those two little girls were the epitome of children can be so cruel. How dare these girls tease and torture Kelly. Yeah I know these were just characters in a book, but I’ve met children AND adults just like them. More than likely you have too.
There was a saving grace. Brandon. *sigh* Even as a little boy he was sweet to Kelly. He would eat with her, play games and made her school life a bit more bearable. He accepted her for who she was.
Reading how the romance unfolded between these two, beginning with Facebook messages, was so romantic. Thinking about the story and the love, just makes me melt. There’s one scene in particular that just brings tears to my eyes. Kelly and Brandon have their first physical date. The restaurant is dimly lit and candles are at every table, it’s too dark for her to read Brandon’s lips. He moves the candle closer so she can see him. If I wasn’t in love with the character before I was at that moment.
This was a truly enjoyable story. I just loved the characters and I couldn’t read fast enough to get to the end. Actually I hated to see the story end. The mix of what it’s like to have a physical disability, the struggles one can face and people who are willing to treat the individual as a person was great.
Reading this evoked a lot of emotions because I could relate. I’m visually impaired and it’s amazing to see how many people are uncomfortable with someone who is different, like the condition is contagious or something. Go figure.
So if you haven’t picked up your copy of A Facebook Affair, go ahead. This is a wonderful steamy story full of passion and romance.
She didn’t make excuses, she didn’t hide who she was, but embraced what she could and couldn’t do. Kelly lived an active and full life. She had a job, an apartment, friends and getting a glimpse into her life and the prejudices she faced on a daily basis was priceless.
There was one point in the story when Brandon asked Kelly what she liked to do. Going to a movie theater wasn’t high on her list, one because not all theaters offer closed captioning, and snuggled on the couch is the best way to view a movie. I totally agree. I’m visually impaired and only see maybe 50% of any movie I view in the theater and I only go because it makes my family happy.
I loved the flashbacks. Without them I don’t think the story would’ve been as rich and in-depth as it was. Reading the glimpses into her childhood days allowed the reader to see the three people who impacted her the most. Brandon, Lindsay and Caitlin.
Lindsay and Caitlin. Give me a moment because there were a few times I found myself fussing at my Kindle. Nope I did not like those two little girls. They were mean and selfish and I lumped then in the same category as the Evil Queen from Once Upon a Time. Those two little girls were the epitome of children can be so cruel. How dare these girls tease and torture Kelly. Yeah I know these were just characters in a book, but I’ve met children AND adults just like them. More than likely you have too.
There was a saving grace. Brandon. *sigh* Even as a little boy he was sweet to Kelly. He would eat with her, play games and made her school life a bit more bearable. He accepted her for who she was.
Reading how the romance unfolded between these two, beginning with Facebook messages, was so romantic. Thinking about the story and the love, just makes me melt. There’s one scene in particular that just brings tears to my eyes. Kelly and Brandon have their first physical date. The restaurant is dimly lit and candles are at every table, it’s too dark for her to read Brandon’s lips. He moves the candle closer so she can see him. If I wasn’t in love with the character before I was at that moment.
This was a truly enjoyable story. I just loved the characters and I couldn’t read fast enough to get to the end. Actually I hated to see the story end. The mix of what it’s like to have a physical disability, the struggles one can face and people who are willing to treat the individual as a person was great.
Reading this evoked a lot of emotions because I could relate. I’m visually impaired and it’s amazing to see how many people are uncomfortable with someone who is different, like the condition is contagious or something. Go figure.
So if you haven’t picked up your copy of A Facebook Affair, go ahead. This is a wonderful steamy story full of passion and romance.
January 12, 2012
Kelly Littleton has had a hearing impairment her entire life. As a child, life was very difficult for her because she was different and in a public school. She had to wear hearing aids over her ears and talked a little different than everyone else. In her second and third grade years though, there was a boy, Brandon, who always had a gentle smile for her amid all the mean girls. After having to move away in her third grade year, she never forgot that friend.
Now as an adult working in journalism, Kelly has made peace with her disability. She reads lips and has high-tech hearing aids which help her out. Pursuing her career and her mother’s recent sickness and death has not helped her dating life however. With a push from a friend, Kelly finally decides to sign up on Facebook to see if she can reconnect with any old friends. The first person she looks up is Brandon, and boom – he is on there. They start shyly chatting by private message but soon the flirtation ramps up and they decide to meet in person.
I decided to read A Facebook Affair because the heroine has a hearing impairment and I haven’t found that a lot in the books I’ve read. I think the author does a nice job with showing us Kelly’s impairment and how as a child and as an adult she has to deal with issues. However, a lot of time in this book is spent in flashbacks to when Kelly and Brandon are in grade school together and I think we spend too much time there. During these flashbacks we see just how mean the kids are to Kelly. But after awhile it felt very repetitive and I don’t think we needed more than just a few examples to get the full effect and consequences of their behavior. I also thought in these flashbacks that Kelly did not speak nor react as a eight or nine year old should. It was almost like she was an adult, living in the second and third grade.
I did like how the romance unfolds in this one. It seemed very realistic and I like how they start by flirting on Facebook. They slowly work up the nerve to meet each other in person. There really isn’t any internal conflict with Kelly, it is more just a very sweet build up to romance and I enjoyed it.
Some of the mean girls from Kelly’s childhood come back to haunt her now that she is an adult and I think that storyline is a little overplayed. Especially the events surrounding Brandon’s twin sister and ex-wife. It felt a little forced.
While some parts of the story didn’t work for me, it does have a sweet romance and a unique heroine.
Rating: C
Now as an adult working in journalism, Kelly has made peace with her disability. She reads lips and has high-tech hearing aids which help her out. Pursuing her career and her mother’s recent sickness and death has not helped her dating life however. With a push from a friend, Kelly finally decides to sign up on Facebook to see if she can reconnect with any old friends. The first person she looks up is Brandon, and boom – he is on there. They start shyly chatting by private message but soon the flirtation ramps up and they decide to meet in person.
I decided to read A Facebook Affair because the heroine has a hearing impairment and I haven’t found that a lot in the books I’ve read. I think the author does a nice job with showing us Kelly’s impairment and how as a child and as an adult she has to deal with issues. However, a lot of time in this book is spent in flashbacks to when Kelly and Brandon are in grade school together and I think we spend too much time there. During these flashbacks we see just how mean the kids are to Kelly. But after awhile it felt very repetitive and I don’t think we needed more than just a few examples to get the full effect and consequences of their behavior. I also thought in these flashbacks that Kelly did not speak nor react as a eight or nine year old should. It was almost like she was an adult, living in the second and third grade.
I did like how the romance unfolds in this one. It seemed very realistic and I like how they start by flirting on Facebook. They slowly work up the nerve to meet each other in person. There really isn’t any internal conflict with Kelly, it is more just a very sweet build up to romance and I enjoyed it.
Some of the mean girls from Kelly’s childhood come back to haunt her now that she is an adult and I think that storyline is a little overplayed. Especially the events surrounding Brandon’s twin sister and ex-wife. It felt a little forced.
While some parts of the story didn’t work for me, it does have a sweet romance and a unique heroine.
Rating: C
May 19, 2012
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
A LASR BEST BOOK!!
A Facebook Affair starts off with eight year-old Kelly Littleton on her first day at a new school. She's self-conscious about her hearing aids and her deafness. Instantly, I able to get inside little Kelly's head and feel her emotions and insecurities. She wasn't just a fictional character. She was like a real person. Childhood Kelly reminded me a bit of myself at that age and I connected with this character.
In the second grade, Kelly had been picked on and teased by two bratty little girls, Caitlyn and Lindsay. But Kelly found a friend in Lindsay's brother Brandon.
When adult Kelly's friend insists that she should socialize more and urges her to get on Facebook, Kelly decides to look up her old childhood friend. Throughout the whole book we flash back and forth between childhood versions of Kelly and Brandon and adult Kelly and Brandon. It was almost like a reunion romance story (and I'm a sucker for those) except that they met as children and never had a chance to act on it.
As characters go, Kelly was strong, confident (in her adult years), forgiving, and an all around nice person. Brandon surprised me as a hero. I'm so used to reading about macho heroes that it was a nice change to read about a realistic man who had a boring job and a boring, normal life, and found the love of his life. In a way, these characters showed that you don't have to be a superhero to find love like the kind in the movies.
Lindsay was a character that I liked and hated at the same time. Adult Lindsay was just as much of a brat as child Lindsay. She was stuck up, lazy, and judgmental. However, some unforeseen circumstances lead her to open her eyes and become a better person. It was surprising to watch her grow as a person.
The story as a whole read like a non-fiction memoir. It was realistic, emotional, and actually inspiring. I loved seeing Kelly's life as a deaf person and how she didn't allow it to limit her options. There were a few typos but the depth of the plot and the characters had me overlook that. It was one of the best books I've read in a very long time. I highly recommend this and am looking forward to reading other works by this author.
A LASR BEST BOOK!!
A Facebook Affair starts off with eight year-old Kelly Littleton on her first day at a new school. She's self-conscious about her hearing aids and her deafness. Instantly, I able to get inside little Kelly's head and feel her emotions and insecurities. She wasn't just a fictional character. She was like a real person. Childhood Kelly reminded me a bit of myself at that age and I connected with this character.
In the second grade, Kelly had been picked on and teased by two bratty little girls, Caitlyn and Lindsay. But Kelly found a friend in Lindsay's brother Brandon.
When adult Kelly's friend insists that she should socialize more and urges her to get on Facebook, Kelly decides to look up her old childhood friend. Throughout the whole book we flash back and forth between childhood versions of Kelly and Brandon and adult Kelly and Brandon. It was almost like a reunion romance story (and I'm a sucker for those) except that they met as children and never had a chance to act on it.
As characters go, Kelly was strong, confident (in her adult years), forgiving, and an all around nice person. Brandon surprised me as a hero. I'm so used to reading about macho heroes that it was a nice change to read about a realistic man who had a boring job and a boring, normal life, and found the love of his life. In a way, these characters showed that you don't have to be a superhero to find love like the kind in the movies.
Lindsay was a character that I liked and hated at the same time. Adult Lindsay was just as much of a brat as child Lindsay. She was stuck up, lazy, and judgmental. However, some unforeseen circumstances lead her to open her eyes and become a better person. It was surprising to watch her grow as a person.
The story as a whole read like a non-fiction memoir. It was realistic, emotional, and actually inspiring. I loved seeing Kelly's life as a deaf person and how she didn't allow it to limit her options. There were a few typos but the depth of the plot and the characters had me overlook that. It was one of the best books I've read in a very long time. I highly recommend this and am looking forward to reading other works by this author.
July 31, 2014
What a nice story. Elementary friends meet as adults. Love these second chance books, but I don’t know if you would call it second chance romance since the boy and the girl in this book were in 8/9 years old when they were friends
The story begins with Ciara being convinced by her friend to start a Facebook account. Ciara is shy and keeps to herself except for a few friends. However, she gets signed up on Facebook by her friend and one of the first people she looks up is her first childhood crush, Hunter. They “friend” each other and start this new link with each other even though they live in different states. However, the distance does not prevent them from having feelings for each other.
Some of the hardest scenes were where Hunter’s twin sister, Lindsay was picking on Ciara. Even when Lindsay found out that Hunter were communicating via Facebook, she still was a bully. When you are not happy with your own life, you pick on others. I don’t know if I would be so quick to forgive. I felt like some of Lindsay’s actions were evil.
Did I feel connected to the characters? Yes. My heart went out for Ciara immediately. You will love her character. She is strong, she is kind, she is just a good person. Even though she had a hard time as a child with her hearing aid, you saw her strength. Those teachers, like Mrs. Bradshaw should have been fired for just standing back in the sidelines and doing very little to prevent the teasing. Ugh. Stuff like that makes so angry. The teacher was weak for being just as afraid to cross Lindsay like the rest of the students.
Pace of the story: The story started pretty quickly with flashbacks. You get both Hunter’s and Ciara’s POV in this story.
Positives: I love stories about childhood friends that reconnect later in life. I loved that the story plot was original.
Negatives: Some of the dialogue between the characters felt awkward in the beginning, but then I got used to the writing style and enjoyed the story.
Bottom line: I love stories of childhood friends that reunite later in life and I loved this one.
Book Format Read: A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
The story begins with Ciara being convinced by her friend to start a Facebook account. Ciara is shy and keeps to herself except for a few friends. However, she gets signed up on Facebook by her friend and one of the first people she looks up is her first childhood crush, Hunter. They “friend” each other and start this new link with each other even though they live in different states. However, the distance does not prevent them from having feelings for each other.
Some of the hardest scenes were where Hunter’s twin sister, Lindsay was picking on Ciara. Even when Lindsay found out that Hunter were communicating via Facebook, she still was a bully. When you are not happy with your own life, you pick on others. I don’t know if I would be so quick to forgive. I felt like some of Lindsay’s actions were evil.
Did I feel connected to the characters? Yes. My heart went out for Ciara immediately. You will love her character. She is strong, she is kind, she is just a good person. Even though she had a hard time as a child with her hearing aid, you saw her strength. Those teachers, like Mrs. Bradshaw should have been fired for just standing back in the sidelines and doing very little to prevent the teasing. Ugh. Stuff like that makes so angry. The teacher was weak for being just as afraid to cross Lindsay like the rest of the students.
Pace of the story: The story started pretty quickly with flashbacks. You get both Hunter’s and Ciara’s POV in this story.
Positives: I love stories about childhood friends that reconnect later in life. I loved that the story plot was original.
Negatives: Some of the dialogue between the characters felt awkward in the beginning, but then I got used to the writing style and enjoyed the story.
Bottom line: I love stories of childhood friends that reunite later in life and I loved this one.
Book Format Read: A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2012
Review written for www.books-n-kisses.com
Have you ever thought of looking up your first love on FaceBook? Do you wonder what would happen?
Kelly was always the one in school everyone made fun of. She needed hearing aids and talked funny because of her lack of hearing. In second grade she has to go to a new school in Oklahoma and becomes the target of ridicule from most of her classmates. Everyone except Brandon. Now 20 years later she decides to look up Brandon on FaceBook.
Brandon is going through a divorce and is being the "man of the house" for her sister while her husband is deployed. Life is not what he wanted it to be, then suddenly a message comes from Kelly through FaceBook and they begin to talk...
Can you really turn back the hands of time?
Each chapter begins with a memory of school days for Kelly and some of them are heartbreaking. It makes you wonder where the teacher was while this child is bullied and abused. The "mean girls" (one being Brandon's sister Lindsey) are just that and more. Everything you have ever heard of happening in school is addressed in this story (from being picked last to being shoved into lockers, etc). The writing of the FaceBook messages are a little corny and not really sure that most people would have conversations in the way this was written but maybe that is just me. It just seems too "high school" for characters who are now 28 (I mean does a 28 year old say 'rents for parents?) and my goodness the use of LOL is beyond normal speech. The ending of this book is a little corny too but a "feel good ending" all the same.
This is a e-book that sells for around $4. Go ahead pick it up. Have it ready for when you need a quick read. It may not end up being on your favorites list but what it will do is make you wonder WHO SHOULD YOU LOOK UP ON FACEBOOK?
NOTE: The reader needs to remember also that this was written some time before FaceBook made more of it's many changes. It uses icons, boxes, etc that are no longer being used on FaceBook.
Have you ever thought of looking up your first love on FaceBook? Do you wonder what would happen?
Kelly was always the one in school everyone made fun of. She needed hearing aids and talked funny because of her lack of hearing. In second grade she has to go to a new school in Oklahoma and becomes the target of ridicule from most of her classmates. Everyone except Brandon. Now 20 years later she decides to look up Brandon on FaceBook.
Brandon is going through a divorce and is being the "man of the house" for her sister while her husband is deployed. Life is not what he wanted it to be, then suddenly a message comes from Kelly through FaceBook and they begin to talk...
Can you really turn back the hands of time?
Each chapter begins with a memory of school days for Kelly and some of them are heartbreaking. It makes you wonder where the teacher was while this child is bullied and abused. The "mean girls" (one being Brandon's sister Lindsey) are just that and more. Everything you have ever heard of happening in school is addressed in this story (from being picked last to being shoved into lockers, etc). The writing of the FaceBook messages are a little corny and not really sure that most people would have conversations in the way this was written but maybe that is just me. It just seems too "high school" for characters who are now 28 (I mean does a 28 year old say 'rents for parents?) and my goodness the use of LOL is beyond normal speech. The ending of this book is a little corny too but a "feel good ending" all the same.
This is a e-book that sells for around $4. Go ahead pick it up. Have it ready for when you need a quick read. It may not end up being on your favorites list but what it will do is make you wonder WHO SHOULD YOU LOOK UP ON FACEBOOK?
NOTE: The reader needs to remember also that this was written some time before FaceBook made more of it's many changes. It uses icons, boxes, etc that are no longer being used on FaceBook.
January 15, 2012
A Facebook Affair is a sweet, sexy story with a little something extra - a message about adversity, bullies, and being less than "perfect". It revolves around Kelly, who lost her hearing at a young age and her budding romance with Brandon, who befriended her when they were children.
Kelly is at loose ends after the death of her mother from cancer. At the encouragement of her best friend to put herself out in the social world, she signs up for a Facebook account. She looks up an old crush from her childhood (Brandon), finds him, and they begin an online flirtation that turns into more when they meet in person for a date. The twist here is that Brandon's twin sister and her best friend are the bullies that tormented Kelly.
Throughout the book, the author effectively uses flashbacks of Kelly's childhood to show the growth and strength in her character. Those childhood insecurities surface when she comes face to face with the bullies from her childhood but Kelly handles it with grace and confidence.
The thing that really impressed me is how the author was not afraid to think outside the box with her characters. Kelly was very real, vulnerable yet strong, and refreshing. Also, the use of flashbacks can really confuse a reader unless it is done well and in this case, it was definitely done well. I don't think Kelly's story could have been told any other way. I would highly recommend this book.
Tara Chevrestt
Kelly is at loose ends after the death of her mother from cancer. At the encouragement of her best friend to put herself out in the social world, she signs up for a Facebook account. She looks up an old crush from her childhood (Brandon), finds him, and they begin an online flirtation that turns into more when they meet in person for a date. The twist here is that Brandon's twin sister and her best friend are the bullies that tormented Kelly.
Throughout the book, the author effectively uses flashbacks of Kelly's childhood to show the growth and strength in her character. Those childhood insecurities surface when she comes face to face with the bullies from her childhood but Kelly handles it with grace and confidence.
The thing that really impressed me is how the author was not afraid to think outside the box with her characters. Kelly was very real, vulnerable yet strong, and refreshing. Also, the use of flashbacks can really confuse a reader unless it is done well and in this case, it was definitely done well. I don't think Kelly's story could have been told any other way. I would highly recommend this book.
Tara Chevrestt
July 31, 2013
An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. To view the full review, visit: http://fallinginfall.blogspot.com
At its beginning, Love Request is really original and intriguing, because it features Ciara Litteton, a hearing impaired female lead.
"I'm a grown woman, I'm attractive and sucessful. I'm hearing impaired and I'm okay with it. They have the problem."
After Ciara's mother passes away from cancer, Tammy, Ciara’s best friend, wants her to get back in the dating world. Ciara finally joins the 21st Century and signs up for Facebook. While on Facebook, she thinks of people she could send friend requests to. Enter Hunter, her first crush from second grade. Hunter and Ciara send messages back and forth, and when the two decide to meet, the chemistry is off the charts. The story flips back and forth from when Ciara was a child to present day. We experience everything right alongside Ciara as she is bullied by other kids in her class. Throughout these sad experiences, there was one boy that was always nice to her. Hunter. Ironically, it was Hunter’s twin sister that bullied Ciara. I literally cried my eyes out for Ciara. I felt so connected to her on so many levels. Being a kid that was bullied, it's hard to read situations such as these and makes you think twice.
The characters are what made this book a page turner. The storyline moves the reader to become emotionally invested. Tara Chevrestt did an excellent job!
At its beginning, Love Request is really original and intriguing, because it features Ciara Litteton, a hearing impaired female lead.
"I'm a grown woman, I'm attractive and sucessful. I'm hearing impaired and I'm okay with it. They have the problem."
After Ciara's mother passes away from cancer, Tammy, Ciara’s best friend, wants her to get back in the dating world. Ciara finally joins the 21st Century and signs up for Facebook. While on Facebook, she thinks of people she could send friend requests to. Enter Hunter, her first crush from second grade. Hunter and Ciara send messages back and forth, and when the two decide to meet, the chemistry is off the charts. The story flips back and forth from when Ciara was a child to present day. We experience everything right alongside Ciara as she is bullied by other kids in her class. Throughout these sad experiences, there was one boy that was always nice to her. Hunter. Ironically, it was Hunter’s twin sister that bullied Ciara. I literally cried my eyes out for Ciara. I felt so connected to her on so many levels. Being a kid that was bullied, it's hard to read situations such as these and makes you think twice.
The characters are what made this book a page turner. The storyline moves the reader to become emotionally invested. Tara Chevrestt did an excellent job!
June 7, 2013
This book was provided to me by the author and Tasty Book tours in exchange for an honest review. Love Request is the story of Ciara Littleton, a hearing-impaired single woman that just recently lost her mom to cancer. Her friend Tammy is determined to not let her wallow in misery. Instead, she pushes her back out into the real world and into the dating scene. She's determined to see her friend find someone to love and live for herself for awhile.
The book moves back and forth from Ciara's life as a child and the present. We see that there was a boy named Hunter that made quite an impact on her. It was a positive impact, but his sister made a very negative one. So much so that years later, they are still on her mind.
By using Facebook, Ciara is able to make contact with Hunter. They began to send messages back and forth, and something starts to happen between them. As adults, they have chemistry and decide to meet again in person.
I found this book to be very touching and full of romance. Even then, I don't feel like I am saying enough good about it! It was much more than a fun and interesting read, there were several messages within the pages that are a good reminder to us all. I definitely give it five-stars, as I felt like it was a great, realistic romance that warmed my heart.
The book moves back and forth from Ciara's life as a child and the present. We see that there was a boy named Hunter that made quite an impact on her. It was a positive impact, but his sister made a very negative one. So much so that years later, they are still on her mind.
By using Facebook, Ciara is able to make contact with Hunter. They began to send messages back and forth, and something starts to happen between them. As adults, they have chemistry and decide to meet again in person.
I found this book to be very touching and full of romance. Even then, I don't feel like I am saying enough good about it! It was much more than a fun and interesting read, there were several messages within the pages that are a good reminder to us all. I definitely give it five-stars, as I felt like it was a great, realistic romance that warmed my heart.
December 29, 2011
I won this book in a drawing on the author's blog. I received it free in electronic form and was able to easily download it to my Nook. I have to say I LOVED IT! The story was really heartwarming and romantic (I realize that might sound cheesy, but I had warm fuzzy feelings all day from this book). This is a novella about finding your true love after 20 years, and it definitely reaffirmed my opinion that true love does exist.
Kelly and Brandon reconnect over Facebook and feelings they had 20 years before come bubbling to the service. There's a lot of things that happen in the story, and it's presented both in present time and in 2nd/3rd grades. I found that it was very easy to relate to Kelly, both in the present time period and when she was being tormented by girls at her school. Kelly is a very strong character, well written and three dimensional. I don't want to write too much cause I don't want to ruin it for anyone else. I will say I really enjoyed this book and had fun reading it!
Kelly and Brandon reconnect over Facebook and feelings they had 20 years before come bubbling to the service. There's a lot of things that happen in the story, and it's presented both in present time and in 2nd/3rd grades. I found that it was very easy to relate to Kelly, both in the present time period and when she was being tormented by girls at her school. Kelly is a very strong character, well written and three dimensional. I don't want to write too much cause I don't want to ruin it for anyone else. I will say I really enjoyed this book and had fun reading it!
May 30, 2012
A Facebook Affair centers on the rekindling of a friendship between a young hearing impaired woman and a sweet man who knew each other in elementary school. The tale seamlessly transitions from the past the the present. The element of having a deaf heroine brought a sense of realism to the world of erotica, which can sometimes be a bit far-fetched. There were many funny one-liners, and I found myself smiling while reading several times. The heroine is a strong woman, something I love to see in romance, and the hero is quite the gentleman. There was hot build-up and delivery of sex scenes, and non-awkward discussions about using condoms. The one thing I didn't like about the book was that there was head hopping, most notably during one of the sex scenes. I found myself distracted and wondering "Wasn't this just in her point of view?". Regardless, I enjoyed this story and look forward to more from the author.
B review from Amethyst of Book Perfection Reviews.
www,bookperfection.blogspot.com
B review from Amethyst of Book Perfection Reviews.
www,bookperfection.blogspot.com
September 4, 2014
Love Request, apparently formerly called A Facebook Affair, by Tara Chevrestt was a love story between Ciara Littleton and Hunter Reaves who were childhood classmates who reconnected through Facebook and fell in love.
First thing first, it was refreshing to read a book about a deaf character and the normal everyday struggles a deaf person has that everyone else takes for granted. However, that's about the only good thing I had to say about the book.
While Hunter may have been a sweetheart and he was Ciara's knight in shining armor, he was surrounded by people who were simply awful human beings who made Ciara's life a living hell. What she went through because of those bullies was not pleasant to read about at all, and even though she and Hunter had a happy ending, that didn't make up for the entirely unlikable book.
2 out of 5 stars.
First thing first, it was refreshing to read a book about a deaf character and the normal everyday struggles a deaf person has that everyone else takes for granted. However, that's about the only good thing I had to say about the book.
While Hunter may have been a sweetheart and he was Ciara's knight in shining armor, he was surrounded by people who were simply awful human beings who made Ciara's life a living hell. What she went through because of those bullies was not pleasant to read about at all, and even though she and Hunter had a happy ending, that didn't make up for the entirely unlikable book.
2 out of 5 stars.
April 15, 2013
I loved this story! Ciara is a hearing impaired woman that has gone through rough times. She reads lips and was raised mainstream, which means she doesn’t know how to sign and went to “regular” school. She had a rough childhood with moving around a lot. That makes it difficult to make friends. The story tells about one of the worst times when she was in second and third grade and the girls were extra vicious.
Now, Ciara is all grown up and her friend Tammy is trying to convince her to get into the dating world but Ciara believes men aren’t interested due to her hearing issues. Tammy convinces her to get started on Facebook and look up some old friends. Ciara remembers Hunter, the one person who wasn’t cruel to her during that dark period of her life.
On internet connection is all it takes to discover that love can begin at any age.
Now, Ciara is all grown up and her friend Tammy is trying to convince her to get into the dating world but Ciara believes men aren’t interested due to her hearing issues. Tammy convinces her to get started on Facebook and look up some old friends. Ciara remembers Hunter, the one person who wasn’t cruel to her during that dark period of her life.
On internet connection is all it takes to discover that love can begin at any age.
January 6, 2012
Full review: http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
The connection of two hearts, regardless of distance or obstacles that may block their way. Ms. Chevrestt had me so engulfed in the world she created I read this book in one sitting. The lead heroine Kelly was an inspiration as she overcame childhood bullying, and the preconceived notions of what it means to be a person with hearing impairment. I learned new things as I fell in love with Kelly and her beau Brandon who was a once a school girl crush. Their romance was honest, and sweet; but it didn’t lack in passion. If you haven’t read this one yet, I highly recommend you pick it up.
A Facebook Affair really reminds us what true love is all about.
The connection of two hearts, regardless of distance or obstacles that may block their way. Ms. Chevrestt had me so engulfed in the world she created I read this book in one sitting. The lead heroine Kelly was an inspiration as she overcame childhood bullying, and the preconceived notions of what it means to be a person with hearing impairment. I learned new things as I fell in love with Kelly and her beau Brandon who was a once a school girl crush. Their romance was honest, and sweet; but it didn’t lack in passion. If you haven’t read this one yet, I highly recommend you pick it up.
A Facebook Affair really reminds us what true love is all about.
February 7, 2012
What a great story--Brandon and Kelly are a couple with real chemistry. I loved the way that their romance began to unfold on Facebook, and the author really handles Kelly's disability with care and respect. The flashbacks to their childhood days (and the bullying that Kelly endured) give their present-day relationship more depth.
For those who like their sweet romance with some sizzle, I highly recommend A Facebook Affair!
March 29, 2013
This is a really sweet romance. Two old school friends find each other again after years part through the power of face book. But a nasty sister who doesn't like Caira and also tortured her because she was deaf doesn't make it easy for them. I enjoyed how the story went back and forth between the present and their childhood and tied it all together. Touching and realistic, Love Request is a book I'd recommend to anyone.
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