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Fight or Flight #2
Sink or Swim
There are some things you just can't walk away from.
When sleeping in vacant warehouses and dark alleys becomes preferable to living at home, something is seriously wrong. But when word reaches Allie that her mother is facing a life threatening illness, she has no choice but to return to the place of nightmares. Leaving wasn't a choice, it was a necessity, and if returning hadn't been equally necessary, Allie never would have set foot back inside that hell-hole.
Dean is no stranger to hardship, but the day Allie walked out of his life, taking his heart right along with her, was hands-down the most frustrating. Six months later, she's back and Dean refuses to rest until he figures out exactly what the hell happened.
Now, Allie's drowning. Drowning in lies. Drowning in the truth. Drowning in pain, and anger, and fear. But there comes a time when every drowning person must decide whether they will . . . Sink or Swim?
**Please be aware that this book contains physical violence and adult language that may not be suitable for all readers.
When sleeping in vacant warehouses and dark alleys becomes preferable to living at home, something is seriously wrong. But when word reaches Allie that her mother is facing a life threatening illness, she has no choice but to return to the place of nightmares. Leaving wasn't a choice, it was a necessity, and if returning hadn't been equally necessary, Allie never would have set foot back inside that hell-hole.
Dean is no stranger to hardship, but the day Allie walked out of his life, taking his heart right along with her, was hands-down the most frustrating. Six months later, she's back and Dean refuses to rest until he figures out exactly what the hell happened.
Now, Allie's drowning. Drowning in lies. Drowning in the truth. Drowning in pain, and anger, and fear. But there comes a time when every drowning person must decide whether they will . . . Sink or Swim?
**Please be aware that this book contains physical violence and adult language that may not be suitable for all readers.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2013
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612 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 1, 2018
Actual rating - 3.5
October 2, 2016
Great book, great read. Some parts of the book was great and some parts are some pretty bad parts. With Allie not living at home and living in dark alleys on the street to survive. When she speaks to someone she knows her mother is where as she is really sick.
Allie is faced moving home and facing hard times, where as in the first place she made a choice in leaving home. Where she could be away from it all. When Allie left she also left a friend name Dean in the process. He was hurt a bit too.
When she figures out what pain she must face when she goes home and there are more lies and more abuse. Allie is also faced with anger and bitterness at the thought of living at home. When she was forced to leave home due to the abuse in the home.
She returns home only to take care of her mother. Allie is courageous both for the reasons she left home and the reason she returns. I admired her desire to be with her mother despite the consequences she knew she'd suffer by returning home. One of those consequences is facing Dean, the boy she's know her whole life. The boy whom she left behind without a word.
The story is about an abusive home environment and there are moments where it seemed so real as abuse and violence is real in the end. As many young adults go through when they are in this type of situation. It is not fair for any family to go through it at all.
For me the story was touching and I kept reading because I want to see what happened in the end. Great author and looking forward to the next book.
Allie is faced moving home and facing hard times, where as in the first place she made a choice in leaving home. Where she could be away from it all. When Allie left she also left a friend name Dean in the process. He was hurt a bit too.
When she figures out what pain she must face when she goes home and there are more lies and more abuse. Allie is also faced with anger and bitterness at the thought of living at home. When she was forced to leave home due to the abuse in the home.
She returns home only to take care of her mother. Allie is courageous both for the reasons she left home and the reason she returns. I admired her desire to be with her mother despite the consequences she knew she'd suffer by returning home. One of those consequences is facing Dean, the boy she's know her whole life. The boy whom she left behind without a word.
The story is about an abusive home environment and there are moments where it seemed so real as abuse and violence is real in the end. As many young adults go through when they are in this type of situation. It is not fair for any family to go through it at all.
For me the story was touching and I kept reading because I want to see what happened in the end. Great author and looking forward to the next book.
August 6, 2013
**4.5 Stars**
Sink or Swim is a very fitting title for this story. It takes you to the very depths of despair, then elevates you to hopefulness and joy. Sink or Swim is not a light and fluffy story but it is a well written one and one that leaves you feeling hopeful in the end.
Allie Porter is a young girl who has suffered much in her short life. Her home life is so miserable she left and lived on the streets, literally, rather than continue enduring it. She returns home only to take care of her mother. Allie is courageous both for the reasons she left home and the reason she returns. I admired her desire to be with her mother despite the consequences she knew she'd suffer by returning home. One of those consequences is facing Dean, the boy she's know her whole life. The boy whom she left behind without a word.
Dean Ritter has gone through his fair share of hardship as well. He's resilient and does what has to be done to take care of his family. His mom and sisters depend on him and Dean proves himself more than dependable. He and Allie live across the street from one another and have always been close and even dated. He was devastated when she disappeared and he wants some answers upon her return. And he's just stubborn enough to hold out for them.
I can't imagine experiencing the tragedy that life has been for Allie and Dean. But through it all they've clung to one another. Allie wasn't as honest with Dean as he would have liked but she wanted to protect him from the pain she was suffering. The lengths to which both Allie and Dean were willing to go to in order to protect the other is a testament to their bond. They each are brave, even though Allie doesn't see herself that way.
Sink or Swim is not a light read due to its subject matter. However, it is well written and well developed. It's a character driven story and Ms. Canosa does a fine job of providing characters I couldn't help but feel for and root for. She offers a strong supporting cast of characters as well. Dean's mother and sisters, in particular, are relatable and offer a lot to the story. My one gripe with this story is the extreme use of profanity. I'm not naive and I know teenagers use profanity but this is a YA novel and I felt the profanity was overused.
Overall, Sink or Swim is dark and gritty but keeps you turning the pages for that proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. And I was satisfied when I reached it.
Sink or Swim is a very fitting title for this story. It takes you to the very depths of despair, then elevates you to hopefulness and joy. Sink or Swim is not a light and fluffy story but it is a well written one and one that leaves you feeling hopeful in the end.
Allie Porter is a young girl who has suffered much in her short life. Her home life is so miserable she left and lived on the streets, literally, rather than continue enduring it. She returns home only to take care of her mother. Allie is courageous both for the reasons she left home and the reason she returns. I admired her desire to be with her mother despite the consequences she knew she'd suffer by returning home. One of those consequences is facing Dean, the boy she's know her whole life. The boy whom she left behind without a word.
Dean Ritter has gone through his fair share of hardship as well. He's resilient and does what has to be done to take care of his family. His mom and sisters depend on him and Dean proves himself more than dependable. He and Allie live across the street from one another and have always been close and even dated. He was devastated when she disappeared and he wants some answers upon her return. And he's just stubborn enough to hold out for them.
I can't imagine experiencing the tragedy that life has been for Allie and Dean. But through it all they've clung to one another. Allie wasn't as honest with Dean as he would have liked but she wanted to protect him from the pain she was suffering. The lengths to which both Allie and Dean were willing to go to in order to protect the other is a testament to their bond. They each are brave, even though Allie doesn't see herself that way.
Sink or Swim is not a light read due to its subject matter. However, it is well written and well developed. It's a character driven story and Ms. Canosa does a fine job of providing characters I couldn't help but feel for and root for. She offers a strong supporting cast of characters as well. Dean's mother and sisters, in particular, are relatable and offer a lot to the story. My one gripe with this story is the extreme use of profanity. I'm not naive and I know teenagers use profanity but this is a YA novel and I felt the profanity was overused.
Overall, Sink or Swim is dark and gritty but keeps you turning the pages for that proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. And I was satisfied when I reached it.
November 4, 2016
Heartbreaking story about family, friendship and love! I would definitely read another book by this author!
April 26, 2013
Earlier this year I read and absolutely fell in love with Fight or Flight by Jamie Canosa, the story of Jay and Em and their struggles of living on the street and why/how they ended up there. I've recommended that book to SO MANY people and will continue to because I believe it should be read by more of you guys! I was super-excited to find out that Author Jamie Canosa would be writing a story following Allie, one of the characters from Fight or Flight, and I quickly expressed interested in reading Allie's story.
This excerpt is taken from my review on Into the Hall of Books. Read more here: http://www.intothehallofbooks.com/201...
Allie Porter is one of the secondary characters in Fight or Flight, one of those characters that isn't there for the entire length of the story, but makes a big impact. She's a great character, and main character Em likes her and trusts her, which is a huge deal in Fight or Flight. During the story, however, Allie leaves (no spoilers here) and her presence is not only missed by the characters but by the readers as well. It's great to get this glimpse into exactly why Allie ended up in Fight or Flight and why she had to leave.
Allie Porter had a wonderful friend-that-turned-into-a-boyfriend, Dean Ritter. Dean lived across the street and for years, they spent time together. He always found Allie to be a little bit odd, strange, maybe even a little aloof, but he just thought that's how she was. She wasn't like other girls, and he liked that about her. And little by little, he was falling in love with her. Little did he know, she loved him back.
Dean also didn't realize that Allie was being physically abused by her father. Allie's father was a man that liked to drink and he was a mean drunk. He would hurt her in places that other people couldn't see, so that's why Dean never really recognized what Allie was going through, and she certainly didn't tell anyone because her father had threatened her. When Allie's father began to realize that his daughter's relationship with Dean was becoming more serious, he threatened to kill the both of them - Allie couldn't let that happen. She loved Dean too much. She wanted to protect him at all costs. So she packed a backpack with some stuff, got on a bus, and went to the farthest big city she could go. (This is where you meet Allie in Fight or Flight.)
This absolutely devastated Dean. Ironically, Allie left the same night that he finally told her that he loved her. Naturally, because of Allie's unusual behaviors and mannerisms, he assumed that she bailed on him because he loved her and while she was gone, he carried the burden of that the entire time. But he also never stopped loving her..
Fast forward six months...
Allie is back home, suddenly. Word made it to her on the streets that her mother is terminally ill, and she felt like she needed to come home to take care of her. She knew coming home would be dangerous for her, but she felt that sense of responsibility to her mother. Seeing Dean upon her arrival brought back all sorts of emotions - she never stopped loving him, but he never even knew that she loved him to begin with - she was too afraid to tell him, too afraid of her father hurting him or killing him. Dean felt tons of emotions as well - happiness, anger, confusion, everything. Dean was appalled at her thin stature and frail appearance, and was curious to know where she'd been and why she'd left. Obviously the two would have tons of talking to do to catch up, but immediately upon her arrival back home, Allie is thrust into the same type of situation she was in with her father, the same situation that forced her to leave.
So...Allie spent time taking care of her mother, as her father told her she would be treated as an employee. Her father continued to abuse her, more violently than before. Her time with Dean was only when she was able to sneak out for fear of her father finding out and making good on his promise from before. Eventually, though, Dean figured everything out - why she was always injured when she was younger, why she acted the way she did, why she never left her house and acted afraid that her father would arrive home any second, and why she left.
Dean tried to think of anything he could to get Allie away from her father. Eventually hedecided knew that he had to risk everything in order to save her...
You guys, after loving the first book in this series so much, I was beyond thrilled to get into Allie's head for a little while. I was thrilled to find out why she ended up on the streets along with Jay and Em (from Fight or Flight) and what on earth would make her go back to the home she despised. Allie's story was not a pleasant one, but her ending was a happy one, and that was a joy to read.
I liked Allie Porter as a character. She was a tough, tough gal. For her to stay and take care of her mother even when she was suffering so much - I'm not sure that was the smartest thing to do? I'm not sure that I would want that for someone in real life, but in this story, I just loved her compassion for her mother even though her mother wasn't kind to her earlier in life. But WAY more than that, I loved Dean Ritter - the boy across the street that loved Allie in the way she needed to be loved for years and years and eventually figured everything out. Dean was the hero and wouldn't settle for less than Allie being okay, even though it took awhile and could've cost him everything. Dean had a fantastic family, our secondary characters, that loved and accepted Allie when hers wouldn't, a family that reminded me of the family from this book, and who doesn't love those types of families?
Ultimately, this is a really great novel(la?). The length is fantastic for the price because, honestly, it felt pretty much like a full-length book. It's a tough story in the beginning but the ending is a fantastic HEA, for those that are worried about the content. I am thrilled about this second installment in this series that I love so much. And I am sitting on GO!!! for the next book in this series, Now or Never, and the release date just can't get here fast enough for me.
I recommend Sink or Swim for fans of New Adult Contemporary with Issues and HEA's. There is some romance that is present but it isn't the overriding story line of this story. It just is there, hovering in the background, waiting for the right moment to surface.
This excerpt is taken from my review on Into the Hall of Books. Read more here: http://www.intothehallofbooks.com/201...
Allie Porter is one of the secondary characters in Fight or Flight, one of those characters that isn't there for the entire length of the story, but makes a big impact. She's a great character, and main character Em likes her and trusts her, which is a huge deal in Fight or Flight. During the story, however, Allie leaves (no spoilers here) and her presence is not only missed by the characters but by the readers as well. It's great to get this glimpse into exactly why Allie ended up in Fight or Flight and why she had to leave.
(You can read my thoughts on Fight or Flight HERE.)
******************************************
Allie Porter had a wonderful friend-that-turned-into-a-boyfriend, Dean Ritter. Dean lived across the street and for years, they spent time together. He always found Allie to be a little bit odd, strange, maybe even a little aloof, but he just thought that's how she was. She wasn't like other girls, and he liked that about her. And little by little, he was falling in love with her. Little did he know, she loved him back.
Dean also didn't realize that Allie was being physically abused by her father. Allie's father was a man that liked to drink and he was a mean drunk. He would hurt her in places that other people couldn't see, so that's why Dean never really recognized what Allie was going through, and she certainly didn't tell anyone because her father had threatened her. When Allie's father began to realize that his daughter's relationship with Dean was becoming more serious, he threatened to kill the both of them - Allie couldn't let that happen. She loved Dean too much. She wanted to protect him at all costs. So she packed a backpack with some stuff, got on a bus, and went to the farthest big city she could go. (This is where you meet Allie in Fight or Flight.)
This absolutely devastated Dean. Ironically, Allie left the same night that he finally told her that he loved her. Naturally, because of Allie's unusual behaviors and mannerisms, he assumed that she bailed on him because he loved her and while she was gone, he carried the burden of that the entire time. But he also never stopped loving her..
Fast forward six months...
Allie is back home, suddenly. Word made it to her on the streets that her mother is terminally ill, and she felt like she needed to come home to take care of her. She knew coming home would be dangerous for her, but she felt that sense of responsibility to her mother. Seeing Dean upon her arrival brought back all sorts of emotions - she never stopped loving him, but he never even knew that she loved him to begin with - she was too afraid to tell him, too afraid of her father hurting him or killing him. Dean felt tons of emotions as well - happiness, anger, confusion, everything. Dean was appalled at her thin stature and frail appearance, and was curious to know where she'd been and why she'd left. Obviously the two would have tons of talking to do to catch up, but immediately upon her arrival back home, Allie is thrust into the same type of situation she was in with her father, the same situation that forced her to leave.
So...Allie spent time taking care of her mother, as her father told her she would be treated as an employee. Her father continued to abuse her, more violently than before. Her time with Dean was only when she was able to sneak out for fear of her father finding out and making good on his promise from before. Eventually, though, Dean figured everything out - why she was always injured when she was younger, why she acted the way she did, why she never left her house and acted afraid that her father would arrive home any second, and why she left.
Dean tried to think of anything he could to get Allie away from her father. Eventually he
******************************************
You guys, after loving the first book in this series so much, I was beyond thrilled to get into Allie's head for a little while. I was thrilled to find out why she ended up on the streets along with Jay and Em (from Fight or Flight) and what on earth would make her go back to the home she despised. Allie's story was not a pleasant one, but her ending was a happy one, and that was a joy to read.
I liked Allie Porter as a character. She was a tough, tough gal. For her to stay and take care of her mother even when she was suffering so much - I'm not sure that was the smartest thing to do? I'm not sure that I would want that for someone in real life, but in this story, I just loved her compassion for her mother even though her mother wasn't kind to her earlier in life. But WAY more than that, I loved Dean Ritter - the boy across the street that loved Allie in the way she needed to be loved for years and years and eventually figured everything out. Dean was the hero and wouldn't settle for less than Allie being okay, even though it took awhile and could've cost him everything. Dean had a fantastic family, our secondary characters, that loved and accepted Allie when hers wouldn't, a family that reminded me of the family from this book, and who doesn't love those types of families?
Ultimately, this is a really great novel(la?). The length is fantastic for the price because, honestly, it felt pretty much like a full-length book. It's a tough story in the beginning but the ending is a fantastic HEA, for those that are worried about the content. I am thrilled about this second installment in this series that I love so much. And I am sitting on GO!!! for the next book in this series, Now or Never, and the release date just can't get here fast enough for me.
I recommend Sink or Swim for fans of New Adult Contemporary with Issues and HEA's. There is some romance that is present but it isn't the overriding story line of this story. It just is there, hovering in the background, waiting for the right moment to surface.
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March 19, 2021"Not my problem? Dammit, Allie, doesn't it mean anything to you when I tell you I love you? Of course it's my problem. I fucking love you. Do you get that? I love you and someone is hurting the person I love! That sure as hell is my problem."
July 26, 2013
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
This isn't the first time I read about Allie. I had the chance to get to know her in Fight or Flight, but as a street girl managing on her own. But this book it’s all about her and the her real life. I recommend you read the first book as well, I won’t regret it and you will have a better chance at understanding everything that happens with this characters.
The story it’s about Allie Porter, a girl that had to run away from home because of her abusive father. To me, it’s the saddest story I ever read! She constantly tries to push everyone from her life, because of him because of the beating she gets from her father. She has a boyfriend, Dean Ritter and they dated for six years, until one night they went out into town and he sees the bruises on her face. She keeps lying, she keeps hiding and never once let’s him to know the truth, to try and help her. She just keeps running. Her father it’s a mean drunk, and her mother tries to hide when her daughter get’s hurt, she acts like nothing happens. For me, she is the worst mother I have ever known. If problems weren't enough, Allie it’s to afraid to leave, to go anywhere because her father warned her all the times he will kill her, and he had several guns in the house...This is one of the reasons she won’t tell Dean what it’s going on, to protect him from her father. She’s afraid of what might happen.
The day Dean told Allie she loved her it’s the day she finally took the courage to leave home, but not definitely as she hoped. The problem is, she left Dean thinking he is the reason she left, because of those three little words. And the poor guy thinks that Ally wore all the time long jeans and long sleeves because she was afraid of skin cancer...nothing but lies.
Now Allie had to come back home, after six months of freedom, she had to come to that scary place because her mother was sick, she couldn't even get out of bed anymore, she had cancer. Finally, she ends up meeting her father, she starts negotiating with him about her staying there, and when she thought the discussion was over, he hit her and told her if she ever left, he was going to kill her this time.
"Welcome the fuck home."- Allie
The next day she wakes up with Dean at her door, making her to go somewhere, to eat something together so they can talk and sort things out, even if Dean doesn't understand a thing and he wonders what happened to her that she looks that way, so skinny and pale.
“What the hell happened, Allie? One minute everything’s fine and the next you take the fuck off. You’re just . . . gone. Where the hell were you? Why did you leave? Was it because of me? What I said?”-Dean
Even after this Allie, could’t tell him the truth and Dean kept suffering. But one day Dean comes by her house and they start talking, and after a few hours her dad walks in and he is drunk, and cursing, he is showing his real face. And that was the first hint for Dean. After returning to her house, she finally tells him some truth, that her dad won’t let her leave the house and now her back it’s killing her because of the beating. Finally, some truth for Dean. She goes to her house, talks with his family and they get some alone time, but Dean wants to see her back, and when he sees the bruises, that’s when all the truth comes to him, all the hints, all the days she was bruised and covering them.
“It wasn't your problem to deal with.”
“Not my problem? Dammit, Allie, doesn't it mean anything to you when I tell you I love you? Of course it’s my problem. I fucking love you. Do you get that? I love you and someone is hurting the person I love! That sure as hell is my problem.”- Dean and Allie
I’m really trying not to give more details. This book ripped me apart, I wanted to beat the crap out of her father for being such an arse and a violent man with his own daughter. At some times I wanted to slap some nonsense into her for not letting Dean help her, but finally she realized some things and she opened her eyes. Everybody got what they deserved. This book really stirs some emotions into me, it made angry and it made me cry, but the ending was perfect!
“It’s time to make it official.”
An exquisite book that will teach you what real live it's all about! You can learn a lot from this book! Simply wonderful! I highly recommend it! Can’t wait to read the next one! Thank you Jamie Canosa for this marvelous story!
- See more at: http://thebooktown.blogspot.ro/2013/0...
This isn't the first time I read about Allie. I had the chance to get to know her in Fight or Flight, but as a street girl managing on her own. But this book it’s all about her and the her real life. I recommend you read the first book as well, I won’t regret it and you will have a better chance at understanding everything that happens with this characters.
The story it’s about Allie Porter, a girl that had to run away from home because of her abusive father. To me, it’s the saddest story I ever read! She constantly tries to push everyone from her life, because of him because of the beating she gets from her father. She has a boyfriend, Dean Ritter and they dated for six years, until one night they went out into town and he sees the bruises on her face. She keeps lying, she keeps hiding and never once let’s him to know the truth, to try and help her. She just keeps running. Her father it’s a mean drunk, and her mother tries to hide when her daughter get’s hurt, she acts like nothing happens. For me, she is the worst mother I have ever known. If problems weren't enough, Allie it’s to afraid to leave, to go anywhere because her father warned her all the times he will kill her, and he had several guns in the house...This is one of the reasons she won’t tell Dean what it’s going on, to protect him from her father. She’s afraid of what might happen.
The day Dean told Allie she loved her it’s the day she finally took the courage to leave home, but not definitely as she hoped. The problem is, she left Dean thinking he is the reason she left, because of those three little words. And the poor guy thinks that Ally wore all the time long jeans and long sleeves because she was afraid of skin cancer...nothing but lies.
Now Allie had to come back home, after six months of freedom, she had to come to that scary place because her mother was sick, she couldn't even get out of bed anymore, she had cancer. Finally, she ends up meeting her father, she starts negotiating with him about her staying there, and when she thought the discussion was over, he hit her and told her if she ever left, he was going to kill her this time.
"Welcome the fuck home."- Allie
The next day she wakes up with Dean at her door, making her to go somewhere, to eat something together so they can talk and sort things out, even if Dean doesn't understand a thing and he wonders what happened to her that she looks that way, so skinny and pale.
“What the hell happened, Allie? One minute everything’s fine and the next you take the fuck off. You’re just . . . gone. Where the hell were you? Why did you leave? Was it because of me? What I said?”-Dean
Even after this Allie, could’t tell him the truth and Dean kept suffering. But one day Dean comes by her house and they start talking, and after a few hours her dad walks in and he is drunk, and cursing, he is showing his real face. And that was the first hint for Dean. After returning to her house, she finally tells him some truth, that her dad won’t let her leave the house and now her back it’s killing her because of the beating. Finally, some truth for Dean. She goes to her house, talks with his family and they get some alone time, but Dean wants to see her back, and when he sees the bruises, that’s when all the truth comes to him, all the hints, all the days she was bruised and covering them.
“It wasn't your problem to deal with.”
“Not my problem? Dammit, Allie, doesn't it mean anything to you when I tell you I love you? Of course it’s my problem. I fucking love you. Do you get that? I love you and someone is hurting the person I love! That sure as hell is my problem.”- Dean and Allie
I’m really trying not to give more details. This book ripped me apart, I wanted to beat the crap out of her father for being such an arse and a violent man with his own daughter. At some times I wanted to slap some nonsense into her for not letting Dean help her, but finally she realized some things and she opened her eyes. Everybody got what they deserved. This book really stirs some emotions into me, it made angry and it made me cry, but the ending was perfect!
“It’s time to make it official.”
An exquisite book that will teach you what real live it's all about! You can learn a lot from this book! Simply wonderful! I highly recommend it! Can’t wait to read the next one! Thank you Jamie Canosa for this marvelous story!
- See more at: http://thebooktown.blogspot.ro/2013/0...
November 1, 2014
well, well, well, wasn't this book something. I LOVE this heart breaking gut wrenching story. It's gripping and I assure you, it will struck a nerves.
Allie has a secret, which she has has done everything in her powers to hide from the one shining light in her dark miserable life she is currently drowning in.
Allison Porter has suffered in the most horrific way at the hands of a parent; someone who is meant to love and protect their children, unfortunately for Allie she has no such luxury or love in her household.
Dean, the boy next door is her on again off again boyfriend since the age of 11 and the love of her life even though she would never admit to it.
His love for Allie is pure and unconditional, her support has helped him through his own fair share of hardships. But she refuse to allow Dean to do the same for her so she lives a life of lies and hiding.
After sometime Allies's world collide when Dean starts asking question and her lies are no longer servicing in keeping Dean at bay and away from the truth.
This leads her to makes a very difficult decision to run, in-order to save herself and protect Dean and his family.
Her choice to skip town without even much as a goodbye has left Dean broken hearted with a million unanswered questions.
Just when he convinced himself that he will never see her gain....Guess who rocks back up into town?!? Alison Perter in the fictional flesh.
When Alison left she never imagine returning but events beyond her control drew her back into her personal hell hole.
Common sense says to leave her be and move on but Dean is determined to get some answers weather Allie likes it or not he will not let it drop this time. (Dean is one bossy young man who no long ask but DEMAND truth).
After much probing and persistence from Dean Allie still does not tell him the truth but rather give him enough to figure it out for himself.
The Truth can sometimes sink you further into despair and that is exactly what it did to Dean a sense of hopelessness washing over the situation.
what can he possible do to hep the girl he loves when she does not want his help and pushed him away?!?
"Were they really destined to spend their lives separated by only a street, watching each other suffer, but being unable to do anything about it?"
If you are Dean, you sit your a** on your front step every damn day trying to come up with something....anything....
I wanted to shout "help her escape" but he was stuck between a rock and a hard place. He has a family that relies on him to help put food on the table and a roof over their head and the girls he love and want to protect.
I felt his frustration over the predicament he has found himself in. Allies pain, desperation and her will slipping away was leaping off the pages into my chest I really felt for her and prayed that her dangerous, helpless situation might not be so helpless after all and that by some small miracle Dean would find a way to save her.
"Was he willing to die for her? Hell, yes"
I burnt through the pages in only a few short hours, restlessly trying to come up with a solution of my own to their problem.
Sometimes unexpected things happen and certain situation/ opportunity presents itself....you either take it and never look back or you sink and die and your unfortunate situation.
Sink or Swim is written in the third person, allowing a window into both Allie and Deans POV. The flow was great and the emotions were embedded in each word, you get to know and empathize with the the characters. I wanted to shout at Allie a few times because I wanted her to choose life and fight and to not give up or give in or let herself and spirit be broken.
The story was set in a small southern town and I liked that the writing and dialogue reflected that.
No situation is completely hopeless their is always hope in the darkness. You just have to fight and hold the belief that there is always a way. like the saying "Where there is a will there is a way"
4.5 Stars
Allie has a secret, which she has has done everything in her powers to hide from the one shining light in her dark miserable life she is currently drowning in.
Allison Porter has suffered in the most horrific way at the hands of a parent; someone who is meant to love and protect their children, unfortunately for Allie she has no such luxury or love in her household.
Dean, the boy next door is her on again off again boyfriend since the age of 11 and the love of her life even though she would never admit to it.
His love for Allie is pure and unconditional, her support has helped him through his own fair share of hardships. But she refuse to allow Dean to do the same for her so she lives a life of lies and hiding.
After sometime Allies's world collide when Dean starts asking question and her lies are no longer servicing in keeping Dean at bay and away from the truth.
This leads her to makes a very difficult decision to run, in-order to save herself and protect Dean and his family.
Her choice to skip town without even much as a goodbye has left Dean broken hearted with a million unanswered questions.
Just when he convinced himself that he will never see her gain....Guess who rocks back up into town?!? Alison Perter in the fictional flesh.
When Alison left she never imagine returning but events beyond her control drew her back into her personal hell hole.
Common sense says to leave her be and move on but Dean is determined to get some answers weather Allie likes it or not he will not let it drop this time. (Dean is one bossy young man who no long ask but DEMAND truth).
After much probing and persistence from Dean Allie still does not tell him the truth but rather give him enough to figure it out for himself.
The Truth can sometimes sink you further into despair and that is exactly what it did to Dean a sense of hopelessness washing over the situation.
what can he possible do to hep the girl he loves when she does not want his help and pushed him away?!?
"Were they really destined to spend their lives separated by only a street, watching each other suffer, but being unable to do anything about it?"
If you are Dean, you sit your a** on your front step every damn day trying to come up with something....anything....
I wanted to shout "help her escape" but he was stuck between a rock and a hard place. He has a family that relies on him to help put food on the table and a roof over their head and the girls he love and want to protect.
I felt his frustration over the predicament he has found himself in. Allies pain, desperation and her will slipping away was leaping off the pages into my chest I really felt for her and prayed that her dangerous, helpless situation might not be so helpless after all and that by some small miracle Dean would find a way to save her.
"Was he willing to die for her? Hell, yes"
I burnt through the pages in only a few short hours, restlessly trying to come up with a solution of my own to their problem.
Sometimes unexpected things happen and certain situation/ opportunity presents itself....you either take it and never look back or you sink and die and your unfortunate situation.
Sink or Swim is written in the third person, allowing a window into both Allie and Deans POV. The flow was great and the emotions were embedded in each word, you get to know and empathize with the the characters. I wanted to shout at Allie a few times because I wanted her to choose life and fight and to not give up or give in or let herself and spirit be broken.
The story was set in a small southern town and I liked that the writing and dialogue reflected that.
No situation is completely hopeless their is always hope in the darkness. You just have to fight and hold the belief that there is always a way. like the saying "Where there is a will there is a way"
4.5 Stars
August 9, 2013
If you've been a reader of my blog or reviews for any length of time, you'll probably know that I'm a huge fan of the contemporary books. Doesn't matter if it falls within YA, NA, or Adult, if it's contemporary, I probably want to read it, especially if it contains a little romance. Therefore, when Sink or Swim landed on my radar a couple of weeks ago, I knew I had to read it, and thankfully, it turned out to be everything I hoped it would.
Sink or Swim begins the story of Allie, a girl who's been running from her past for the past six months. However, everything changes for her when she learns her mother is ill and near death. Given no option but to return to the place she used to call home, Allie arrives back in the small town she left behind, hoping to slip in without causing a ruckus. That's not what happens, though. Suddenly, Dean, the amazing, sweet boy she left behind, is knocking on her door, wanting to know why she left, wanting a way back into her life. Then there's her horrible dad who plans to make her pay for leaving, and her mom who Allie doesn't know whether to love or hate. Everything that she thought she had left behind is back in full swing, and she doesn't know how to deal with it, especially when everything begins to spiral into a life or death situation.
Gritty. It's probably the best word to describe Sink or Swim. This book deals with child abuse, a pretty hefty subject. However, Jamie didn't candy coat the subject, and I was and am grateful for that, even though some parts of this book were hard to stomach at times. She made the situation realistic and heartbreaking, especially within the character of Allie.
Allie was someone who had seen the hard parts of life as well as the good, and she always tried her best to separate the two from each other. Allie's pain and confusion over her dad's abuse and her mother's refusal to leave jumped off the page and came to life. I felt so much for Allie and her situation. I hoped that she would be able to find a way out, and I was grateful that she had someone as tough and strong as Dean to help her out. Dean was an amazing guy, and I always loved seeing his POVs included. It was heartbreaking to see him forced to stand by while such horrible things were happening to Allie.
I won't go too much into the exact plot of this book, as I don't want to spoil anything, but I will say Jamie did a great job of making the book suspenseful. Often, I didn't know exactly how everything was going to end. Would Allie find a way out? Would she find a way to let her voice be heard? Would she ever find a way to be with Dean? I honestly couldn't tell, and that made me rush through this book in such a fast pace, because I NEEDED to know. I also enjoyed how Jamie switched between Allie and Dean's viewpoints throughout the books. It was interesting to see everything through both their eyes, and I feel that it made the emotions come pouring out even more.
Gritty and heartbreaking, Sink or Swim is a book that will have readers hooked from the first page to the last. I simply can't wait to see what Jamie has in store for us next.
Grade: B+
Sink or Swim begins the story of Allie, a girl who's been running from her past for the past six months. However, everything changes for her when she learns her mother is ill and near death. Given no option but to return to the place she used to call home, Allie arrives back in the small town she left behind, hoping to slip in without causing a ruckus. That's not what happens, though. Suddenly, Dean, the amazing, sweet boy she left behind, is knocking on her door, wanting to know why she left, wanting a way back into her life. Then there's her horrible dad who plans to make her pay for leaving, and her mom who Allie doesn't know whether to love or hate. Everything that she thought she had left behind is back in full swing, and she doesn't know how to deal with it, especially when everything begins to spiral into a life or death situation.
Gritty. It's probably the best word to describe Sink or Swim. This book deals with child abuse, a pretty hefty subject. However, Jamie didn't candy coat the subject, and I was and am grateful for that, even though some parts of this book were hard to stomach at times. She made the situation realistic and heartbreaking, especially within the character of Allie.
Allie was someone who had seen the hard parts of life as well as the good, and she always tried her best to separate the two from each other. Allie's pain and confusion over her dad's abuse and her mother's refusal to leave jumped off the page and came to life. I felt so much for Allie and her situation. I hoped that she would be able to find a way out, and I was grateful that she had someone as tough and strong as Dean to help her out. Dean was an amazing guy, and I always loved seeing his POVs included. It was heartbreaking to see him forced to stand by while such horrible things were happening to Allie.
I won't go too much into the exact plot of this book, as I don't want to spoil anything, but I will say Jamie did a great job of making the book suspenseful. Often, I didn't know exactly how everything was going to end. Would Allie find a way out? Would she find a way to let her voice be heard? Would she ever find a way to be with Dean? I honestly couldn't tell, and that made me rush through this book in such a fast pace, because I NEEDED to know. I also enjoyed how Jamie switched between Allie and Dean's viewpoints throughout the books. It was interesting to see everything through both their eyes, and I feel that it made the emotions come pouring out even more.
Gritty and heartbreaking, Sink or Swim is a book that will have readers hooked from the first page to the last. I simply can't wait to see what Jamie has in store for us next.
Grade: B+
July 13, 2013
*I was given an arc for an honest review.*
4 out of 5 Stars
This is a YA novel
If you haven't read Jamie's first book in this series, I suggest that you do. While it won't matter too much to Sink or Swim, through Jay and Em's story in Fight or Flight, you get a better perspective of Allie's life on the streets. I really liked this book. I found myself lost in the story and at times I didn't want to stop reading. Did I feel the storyline was similar to others that deal in similar situations? Yea...kinda, but there was a pull it had on me.
I had a hard time picturing the characters and it took me awhile, but I created my own cast based off subtle hints throughout the book.
Allie:
"Leaving hadn't been a choice, it'd been a necessity."
Allie comes back to her hometown after being gone for 6 months living on the streets. Her mother was dying from cancer and that was the only thing that brought her home to her abusive father. While she preferred street life to her old home life, Allie needed the last moments she could get with her mother even though her father certainly didn't make her return easy.
Dean:
"I couldn't breathe. Because you're my air, Allie."
Dean had loved Allie for 6 years. Once she returned he was determined she'd never leave him again not realizing the danger Allie's home life brought to her. Dean was a good student and hard worker who gave all he had to his mother and two sisters. Dean was sweet and I liked how protective he was of his girls.
"Moments like this -wrapped in Dean's arms- were just about the only times she'd felt perfectly safe for years. Like playing tag as children, when no one could touch you as long as you were on base? Dean was Allie's base. As long as she was in his arms, she was protected."
"His lips pressed against the sensitive skin of her ear and his warm breath washed down her neck as he leaned in to whisper, "I'll keep you safe."
Through heated arguments, endearing kisses, and heartbreaking secrets, you'll find yourself wishing for the couple's happily ever after. I certainly clung to the pages and did.
"Allison Porter, you have been a part -the best part- of my life for as long as I can remember."
"Were they really destined to spend their lives separated by only a street, watching each other suffer, but being unable to do a thing about it? Was their love story really destined to be a goddamn tragedy?"
Find out in Sink or Swim....
*Images are not mine and are for the purpose of entertainment.*
4 out of 5 Stars
This is a YA novel
If you haven't read Jamie's first book in this series, I suggest that you do. While it won't matter too much to Sink or Swim, through Jay and Em's story in Fight or Flight, you get a better perspective of Allie's life on the streets. I really liked this book. I found myself lost in the story and at times I didn't want to stop reading. Did I feel the storyline was similar to others that deal in similar situations? Yea...kinda, but there was a pull it had on me.
I had a hard time picturing the characters and it took me awhile, but I created my own cast based off subtle hints throughout the book.
Allie:
"Leaving hadn't been a choice, it'd been a necessity."
Allie comes back to her hometown after being gone for 6 months living on the streets. Her mother was dying from cancer and that was the only thing that brought her home to her abusive father. While she preferred street life to her old home life, Allie needed the last moments she could get with her mother even though her father certainly didn't make her return easy.
Dean:
"I couldn't breathe. Because you're my air, Allie."
Dean had loved Allie for 6 years. Once she returned he was determined she'd never leave him again not realizing the danger Allie's home life brought to her. Dean was a good student and hard worker who gave all he had to his mother and two sisters. Dean was sweet and I liked how protective he was of his girls.
"Moments like this -wrapped in Dean's arms- were just about the only times she'd felt perfectly safe for years. Like playing tag as children, when no one could touch you as long as you were on base? Dean was Allie's base. As long as she was in his arms, she was protected."
"His lips pressed against the sensitive skin of her ear and his warm breath washed down her neck as he leaned in to whisper, "I'll keep you safe."
Through heated arguments, endearing kisses, and heartbreaking secrets, you'll find yourself wishing for the couple's happily ever after. I certainly clung to the pages and did.
"Allison Porter, you have been a part -the best part- of my life for as long as I can remember."
"Were they really destined to spend their lives separated by only a street, watching each other suffer, but being unable to do a thing about it? Was their love story really destined to be a goddamn tragedy?"
Find out in Sink or Swim....
*Images are not mine and are for the purpose of entertainment.*
July 28, 2013
"When I thought I’d lost you, those were the worst moments of my life. I couldn’t breathe. Because you’re my air, Allie. I can’t breathe without you. I love you more than anything in this whole world. I always have and I always will."
You know how sometimes you get one of those books that you have to spend a couple of days getting over before you can review it? Well, Sink or Swim is one of those books! Nothing could have prepared me for this book! Nothing! This book was absolutely amazing! I'm going to refer to it as a book rather than a novella as this was and felt like a full length book! I've been an avid fan of Jamie Canosa for ages now, but this book has got to be her best so far! I completely fell in love with the first book in this series and I thought that this book was going to be similar or be set in a similar background to Fight or Flight, but it was completely different! It was a completely different setting with completely different characters! The plot of Sink or Swim was really emotional! It had a lot in it and my heart completely broke for the characters! I didn't expect the plot of this book to be what it was as it was quite a heart-breaking book, but I think it's probably one of Jamie Canosa's best books! The plot was a whirlwind, but it was so amazing! Watching the main character go through what she did was horrible, but I loved that author didn't hold back and try to dramatize the situation! She showed it in its true nature and she didn't hold back even though it was really horrible for the main character! I really admire the author for that! The characters were amazing! Allie was the main character and I felt that she was a bit of an angry person, but then I thought about all the things she has endured and I realised that she actually hid behind a shell! She didn't want to show emotion because if she did then she suffered the consequences for it! After I realised this I started to connect with her more and I admired her so much! She had been put through a lot and what she had to endure was horrible! Dean was such a cutie! I absolutely adored him! He was so protective of Allie and I could see just how deep his feelings for her went! He would give up everything to save her and watching their relationship grow again was so beautiful! I loved that this book was written from both Allie and Dean's point of views as this gave me the chance to go into both of their heads and see the story through both of their eyes! I know that there's going to be another book to this series and I cannot wait to read it! This is my favourite series by this author and I love everything about it! I originally read this book before it had a cover and I didn't really have an idea as to what the cover could look like so when I did see it I was floored! It is absolutely stunning! Big thank you to Jamie for an ARC of Sink or Swim and also for having me on her Blog Tour!
You know how sometimes you get one of those books that you have to spend a couple of days getting over before you can review it? Well, Sink or Swim is one of those books! Nothing could have prepared me for this book! Nothing! This book was absolutely amazing! I'm going to refer to it as a book rather than a novella as this was and felt like a full length book! I've been an avid fan of Jamie Canosa for ages now, but this book has got to be her best so far! I completely fell in love with the first book in this series and I thought that this book was going to be similar or be set in a similar background to Fight or Flight, but it was completely different! It was a completely different setting with completely different characters! The plot of Sink or Swim was really emotional! It had a lot in it and my heart completely broke for the characters! I didn't expect the plot of this book to be what it was as it was quite a heart-breaking book, but I think it's probably one of Jamie Canosa's best books! The plot was a whirlwind, but it was so amazing! Watching the main character go through what she did was horrible, but I loved that author didn't hold back and try to dramatize the situation! She showed it in its true nature and she didn't hold back even though it was really horrible for the main character! I really admire the author for that! The characters were amazing! Allie was the main character and I felt that she was a bit of an angry person, but then I thought about all the things she has endured and I realised that she actually hid behind a shell! She didn't want to show emotion because if she did then she suffered the consequences for it! After I realised this I started to connect with her more and I admired her so much! She had been put through a lot and what she had to endure was horrible! Dean was such a cutie! I absolutely adored him! He was so protective of Allie and I could see just how deep his feelings for her went! He would give up everything to save her and watching their relationship grow again was so beautiful! I loved that this book was written from both Allie and Dean's point of views as this gave me the chance to go into both of their heads and see the story through both of their eyes! I know that there's going to be another book to this series and I cannot wait to read it! This is my favourite series by this author and I love everything about it! I originally read this book before it had a cover and I didn't really have an idea as to what the cover could look like so when I did see it I was floored! It is absolutely stunning! Big thank you to Jamie for an ARC of Sink or Swim and also for having me on her Blog Tour!
December 8, 2013
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Sink or Swim by Jamie Canosa is one of those beautifully painful but hopeful angsty novellas. Perfectly done with an outcome that was completely and utterly satisfying.
Abuse in any form is awful but when it comes at the hands of an individual who is supposed to be protecting you in this life, it is especially horrid. When Allie runs away to get away from her abusive father, she leaves behind her mom and her long time boyfriend/best friend, Dean. After being gone for six months she finds out that her mom is terminally ill. When she comes back to take care of her mom, things explode.
Upon Allie’s return it is quite clear that Dean still has serious feelings for her. But he doesn’t have all of the facts about what is happening to her or even why she disappeared without a trace. As he stays in the dark, we, as the reader, know what is happening and it is horrible. As things come to light, it starts to escalate getting very intense rushing us forward to a satisfying resolution.
Her father is really quite despicable and I really, really, strongly HATED the man. There was nothing, and I mean nothing, redeemable about him - at all.
Throughout the story I had conflicting feelings about Allie. In some ways I really admired her strength and her tenacity to survive but it went hand in hand with pure annoyance that she was choosing to stay. I understand her reasoning for her choices but at the same time I don’t. Like I said I am very conflicted about her. But I will say this, she is likeable and you can’t help but root for her.
I did not have conflicting feelings about Dean. Nope, I kinda freaking adore him, like Allie better watch her back cuz’ I just might go steal him from her ;) Love him. The man of his house after the death of his father, he helps provide and take care of his mom and sisters. Which by the by he has one of the greatest book families ever. Love them too. In all seriousness though, I loved how he stuck by Allie, fought for her, and loved her. They have such a great relationship filled with so much delicious angst you can practically feel it.
Overall, I really liked Sink or Swim and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for their next YA/NA read.
Originally posted on Me, Myself & Books Blog
http://memyselfandbooksblog.blogspot.com
Sink or Swim by Jamie Canosa is one of those beautifully painful but hopeful angsty novellas. Perfectly done with an outcome that was completely and utterly satisfying.
Abuse in any form is awful but when it comes at the hands of an individual who is supposed to be protecting you in this life, it is especially horrid. When Allie runs away to get away from her abusive father, she leaves behind her mom and her long time boyfriend/best friend, Dean. After being gone for six months she finds out that her mom is terminally ill. When she comes back to take care of her mom, things explode.
Upon Allie’s return it is quite clear that Dean still has serious feelings for her. But he doesn’t have all of the facts about what is happening to her or even why she disappeared without a trace. As he stays in the dark, we, as the reader, know what is happening and it is horrible. As things come to light, it starts to escalate getting very intense rushing us forward to a satisfying resolution.
Her father is really quite despicable and I really, really, strongly HATED the man. There was nothing, and I mean nothing, redeemable about him - at all.
Throughout the story I had conflicting feelings about Allie. In some ways I really admired her strength and her tenacity to survive but it went hand in hand with pure annoyance that she was choosing to stay. I understand her reasoning for her choices but at the same time I don’t. Like I said I am very conflicted about her. But I will say this, she is likeable and you can’t help but root for her.
I did not have conflicting feelings about Dean. Nope, I kinda freaking adore him, like Allie better watch her back cuz’ I just might go steal him from her ;) Love him. The man of his house after the death of his father, he helps provide and take care of his mom and sisters. Which by the by he has one of the greatest book families ever. Love them too. In all seriousness though, I loved how he stuck by Allie, fought for her, and loved her. They have such a great relationship filled with so much delicious angst you can practically feel it.
Overall, I really liked Sink or Swim and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for their next YA/NA read.
Originally posted on Me, Myself & Books Blog
http://memyselfandbooksblog.blogspot.com
August 11, 2013
Before Jamie contacted me about her blog tour, I had neither read nor heard of her books. After reading Sink or Swim, I am so, so happy that these books have been brought to my attention.
Jamie handles a terribly difficult subject with grace and respect, without exploiting her protagonist and without making Allie seem weak. Allie is, in fact, immensely strong, but she's put in a situation that seems to have no way out. She does what she believes to be best and strives to protect those she loves. Even as you see her making those decisions and know there's really no good way to go, you wish she had a better option, but you also admire her. Allie was definitely the biggest strength of the book for me. I hated to see her struggle, but I loved seeing her overcome.
Dean is exactly the kind of guy we should be reading about and swooning over in books. Not only is he handsome, he's loving, strong, and he will make any sacrifice necessary to take care of his loved ones. He doesn't talk big, but he acts big. When he does become aware of Allie's situation, he handles it perfectly and not impulsively. Dean is not too cool and not a bad boy, but he's absolutely swoon-worthy.
Sink or Swim's story is absolutely heartbreaking. (I definitely cried.) While it's technically a novella, it's really much closer to the length of a novel, and reads like one. The dual points-of-view worked well, since there is much Dean doesn't know. Even as there is not much action, the plot flows quickly and it feels like a much shorter work than it is. When it ended, I found myself wanting much more.
I am so happy that I was given a chance to read this book, and I know I will be reading the rest of the books in this series and more of Jamie's works. Not only does she write well, but her story and characters are powerful and real. She handles the most difficult of subjects with great skill and respect. Jamie Canosa and her books deserve all the praise I can give.
You can find this review and many more fun things on my blog: Paper Cuts.
Jamie handles a terribly difficult subject with grace and respect, without exploiting her protagonist and without making Allie seem weak. Allie is, in fact, immensely strong, but she's put in a situation that seems to have no way out. She does what she believes to be best and strives to protect those she loves. Even as you see her making those decisions and know there's really no good way to go, you wish she had a better option, but you also admire her. Allie was definitely the biggest strength of the book for me. I hated to see her struggle, but I loved seeing her overcome.
Dean is exactly the kind of guy we should be reading about and swooning over in books. Not only is he handsome, he's loving, strong, and he will make any sacrifice necessary to take care of his loved ones. He doesn't talk big, but he acts big. When he does become aware of Allie's situation, he handles it perfectly and not impulsively. Dean is not too cool and not a bad boy, but he's absolutely swoon-worthy.
Sink or Swim's story is absolutely heartbreaking. (I definitely cried.) While it's technically a novella, it's really much closer to the length of a novel, and reads like one. The dual points-of-view worked well, since there is much Dean doesn't know. Even as there is not much action, the plot flows quickly and it feels like a much shorter work than it is. When it ended, I found myself wanting much more.
I am so happy that I was given a chance to read this book, and I know I will be reading the rest of the books in this series and more of Jamie's works. Not only does she write well, but her story and characters are powerful and real. She handles the most difficult of subjects with great skill and respect. Jamie Canosa and her books deserve all the praise I can give.
You can find this review and many more fun things on my blog: Paper Cuts.
August 6, 2013
Every once in a while you read a book that makes you sit up and take notice. Sink or Swim is one of those.
From the very first page I was hooked on this story. It’s a heartbreaking story that will leave you shattered. To use one of my favorite phrases…it’s left me with a book hangover.
Alie left town 6 months ago. No note. No forwarding address. Nothing. She even left her cell phone. Now she’s back. She’s here to take care of her dying mother.
Dean has missed Alie since she left. He has no idea why she left. He has no idea the horrors she’s lived through. But he’s determined to find out. And it just might kill her.
Dean and Alie have a love that will make you believe in young love and forever love. But to get there, they have to travel through hell. Alie’s been in hell all her life. Dean has no idea what’s going on, but when he finds out, he’ll risk everything to save her.
This story really tears at me. I have very conflicted emotions about it. On the one hand, it brings to light some very serious social issues that we need to be aware of and do something about. It breaks my heart to think of anyone going through what Alie went through. It’s also a love story. It’s about a love that can withstand the test of time, heartbreak and hell. So, while on the one hand it rips your heart out, on the other it restores your faith in neighbors, friends, and love.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2013
Sink or Swim is the sequel to Fight or Flight, although both novels can be read as stand-alones. I was really surprised at how much I loved this story because it deals with some very serious issues, but I was hooked from the first sentence. Sink or Swim was heartbreaking, honest, emotional, real, shattering......an amazing love story! 4 stars.
Sink or Swim is Allie and Dean's story. Allie is running from her horrible past and life. She left town 6 months ago and made sure no one knew where she was at. Now, Allie has returned after she learned her mother is ill and near death, she is back to take care of her dying mother.
Dean is the sweet and caring boy Allie left behind. He has no idea why Allie left, all he knows is he has missed Allie and he wants to be in her life. The problem is, Dean has no idea the horrors Allie has lived through. Upon Allie's return she has to once again face her horrific past and the demons there but Dean will risk everything to save Allie from the hell her life has become.
Jamie is definitely an author to watch out for, I felt so many emotions while reading this book. If you can't deal with real, raw subject matters this book is not for you because it deals with child abuse and parts were gritty and heartbreaking. I cried many times, and it broke my heart to think that there are actually people that face these issues on a daily basis, but even with these issues Jamie wrote the story well and she wrote an amazing love story.....a story to give people hope. Dean and Allie are characters that will stick with you a long time after you finish this book.
Sink or Swim is Allie and Dean's story. Allie is running from her horrible past and life. She left town 6 months ago and made sure no one knew where she was at. Now, Allie has returned after she learned her mother is ill and near death, she is back to take care of her dying mother.
Dean is the sweet and caring boy Allie left behind. He has no idea why Allie left, all he knows is he has missed Allie and he wants to be in her life. The problem is, Dean has no idea the horrors Allie has lived through. Upon Allie's return she has to once again face her horrific past and the demons there but Dean will risk everything to save Allie from the hell her life has become.
Jamie is definitely an author to watch out for, I felt so many emotions while reading this book. If you can't deal with real, raw subject matters this book is not for you because it deals with child abuse and parts were gritty and heartbreaking. I cried many times, and it broke my heart to think that there are actually people that face these issues on a daily basis, but even with these issues Jamie wrote the story well and she wrote an amazing love story.....a story to give people hope. Dean and Allie are characters that will stick with you a long time after you finish this book.
August 11, 2013
As with most new adult books, this is another heart breaker. It jumps right into it... there is really no lead up point, it just happens.
The Author Jamie Canosa does a fantastic job of portraying a small town (I'm from the big city so I could never imagine even living in a town where everyone knows everything... in a city you are lucky if you even know your neighbors name) She is also able to write with raw emotion, and regardless of whether you have ever gone through what Allie or even Dean has gone through (I really hope you haven't!) she makes you feel
Although the author does a fantastic job at getting your attention and really making you fall in love with every character, not just Allie and Dean... I was a little disappointed that Allie really just gave up. I like a strong main character, and yes her situation is tragic and my heart totally broke for her over and over again... but i kept waiting for just something else. But regardless of this fact, this book is such an easy read because you really get caught up in the story.
I have not had the pleasure of reading another other books in this series, I was a little apprehensive because of that when I began this book because it is the technically the second book in the series. But trust me, this book is totally OK to read as a standalone book... the only thing that I ran into is that I want to read the first book in the series now as well (such a terrible thing right?!)
The Author Jamie Canosa does a fantastic job of portraying a small town (I'm from the big city so I could never imagine even living in a town where everyone knows everything... in a city you are lucky if you even know your neighbors name) She is also able to write with raw emotion, and regardless of whether you have ever gone through what Allie or even Dean has gone through (I really hope you haven't!) she makes you feel
Although the author does a fantastic job at getting your attention and really making you fall in love with every character, not just Allie and Dean... I was a little disappointed that Allie really just gave up. I like a strong main character, and yes her situation is tragic and my heart totally broke for her over and over again... but i kept waiting for just something else. But regardless of this fact, this book is such an easy read because you really get caught up in the story.
I have not had the pleasure of reading another other books in this series, I was a little apprehensive because of that when I began this book because it is the technically the second book in the series. But trust me, this book is totally OK to read as a standalone book... the only thing that I ran into is that I want to read the first book in the series now as well (such a terrible thing right?!)
August 10, 2013
This book sort of hit home for me, I can relate to it because I grew up in a small town and I know how things work.
"But that was the curse of living in Small Town USA. Everyone knew too damn much about everyone else. Where rumors spread like wildfire and a single secret could ruin your entire life."
Unfortunately, this quote is so true and is part of the reason why so many things happen that no one heard about. Shame is a powerful emotion.
Allie Porter is the main character in this story and some of the things she went through were just downright awful. To think that a parent could treat their child this way makes me sick. No one knew what Allie was going through, which is often the case with abuse. It made me feel so bad for her when she had to come back after escaping from this small town.
Now, let's not leave out the romance, which is my favorite part. Dean Ritter is the not across the street and Allie's on and off boyfriend for years. Even he never knew what was going on behind closed doors. He loves Allie and she is always pushing him away to protect him. He has had his fair share of a rough life too and I was hoping throughout the entire book that they would work everything out. This is a great story for anyone who is looking for something a little more than your cookie cutter romance, this book is more like a real romance story with all the grit and hard times built right in. I give Sink or Swim 3.5 Stars!
~Kelly
Allie Porter is the main character in this story and some of the things she went through were just downright awful. To think that a parent could treat their child this way makes me sick. No one knew what Allie was going through, which is often the case with abuse. It made me feel so bad for her when she had to come back after escaping from this small town.
Now, let's not leave out the romance, which is my favorite part. Dean Ritter is the not across the street and Allie's on and off boyfriend for years. Even he never knew what was going on behind closed doors. He loves Allie and she is always pushing him away to protect him. He has had his fair share of a rough life too and I was hoping throughout the entire book that they would work everything out. This is a great story for anyone who is looking for something a little more than your cookie cutter romance, this book is more like a real romance story with all the grit and hard times built right in. I give Sink or Swim 3.5 Stars!
~Kelly
July 30, 2013
This is such a sad story, and it will make you cry!! But I loved it too! Jamie has a great way about making her characters come to life and becoming someone who you want to win. Allie has a crappy life to say the least and the entire time Dean has been there for her. Allie leaves home for 6 months after she can't take the abuse any longer, when she leaves she never says goodbye to Dean, her on / off boyfriend of 6 years, and after he finally told her that he loves her. 6 months later she comes back and Dean wants to know where she was and why she left, but she won't tell him.
It is such an amazing story about how real abusive families can be, and the amount of crap that can dumped on one girl. She thinks living on the streets is a better life, until she realizes she needs to go back to it, hoping that it will stop, that something will change. It doesn't, it only gets much worse and she becomes a prisoner in her own home.
Dean has no idea what is all going on, but slowly puts the pieces together and decides to fight for Allie because she has stopped fighting.
This is the 2nd book in this series, (flight or fight) but it is a stand alone book. Both books share some characters and situations, but they are different stories.
Jamie Canosa, I am a new fan of your writing style and can't wait to read more of your work!!
It is such an amazing story about how real abusive families can be, and the amount of crap that can dumped on one girl. She thinks living on the streets is a better life, until she realizes she needs to go back to it, hoping that it will stop, that something will change. It doesn't, it only gets much worse and she becomes a prisoner in her own home.
Dean has no idea what is all going on, but slowly puts the pieces together and decides to fight for Allie because she has stopped fighting.
This is the 2nd book in this series, (flight or fight) but it is a stand alone book. Both books share some characters and situations, but they are different stories.
Jamie Canosa, I am a new fan of your writing style and can't wait to read more of your work!!
October 27, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Allie and Dean have been best friends forever, however, Allie hides a secret. Her Dad is an alcoholic, a mean and violent one. When Allie can't take anymore she decides living on the street is better than facing his abuse. After 6 months Allie decides to return home to Nurse her dying mother and decides to put up with her Father and resigns herself to a life of servitude and punishment.
Dean just can't understand why Allie just upped and disappeared one day only to turn up again six months later and tries to get to the bottom of it.
I love the style of Jamie Canosa's writing and the plot sounded wonderful but I just couldn't connect with any of the characters in the book. I am not sure if it was the subject matter that I didn't relate to or the characters were too irritating.
Allie and Dean have been best friends forever, however, Allie hides a secret. Her Dad is an alcoholic, a mean and violent one. When Allie can't take anymore she decides living on the street is better than facing his abuse. After 6 months Allie decides to return home to Nurse her dying mother and decides to put up with her Father and resigns herself to a life of servitude and punishment.
Dean just can't understand why Allie just upped and disappeared one day only to turn up again six months later and tries to get to the bottom of it.
I love the style of Jamie Canosa's writing and the plot sounded wonderful but I just couldn't connect with any of the characters in the book. I am not sure if it was the subject matter that I didn't relate to or the characters were too irritating.
August 12, 2013
After buying Lost and Found and reading it in a couple of hours because I couldn't put it down, I was really excited about this one. Sadly I didn't like this one nearly as much. I actually found myself skimming over entire pages because it didn't hold my interest. My lack of interest was more like frustration with Allie and the situation she was constantly put in with her father, and the fact that she wouldn't let Dean help her at all. The reason for her refusal is stated in the book but for me it wasn't enough.
July 22, 2013
Reading by the Book ARC Review
This book was wonderful. It showed how in trying to save one or many lives you lose yourself in the process. Trying to survive become a rehearsed chore that still in the end leave you fighting for you last breath. It takes the one in which you are trying to protect to help you swim to shore and be the person in which they say deep down. A real tear jerker.
This book was wonderful. It showed how in trying to save one or many lives you lose yourself in the process. Trying to survive become a rehearsed chore that still in the end leave you fighting for you last breath. It takes the one in which you are trying to protect to help you swim to shore and be the person in which they say deep down. A real tear jerker.
February 24, 2016
Could not put the book down
I was so engaged in this book that I literally could not put it down. Even while working I squeezed in time to read. Jamie Canosa, you are badass. Please keep writing and faster please!!! I am hooked on your writing style!
I was so engaged in this book that I literally could not put it down. Even while working I squeezed in time to read. Jamie Canosa, you are badass. Please keep writing and faster please!!! I am hooked on your writing style!
August 13, 2015
Another great one from Jamie. Check out my full review here: http://chroniclesofabooknerd.blogspot...
September 14, 2013
Some of these scenes were hard to read, but it was a good story.
July 24, 2013
I thought this was good follow up to fight or flight. It's always tough with this subject matter but the author did a great job!
August 1, 2013
I flew through this one so fast. It was so addicting and very early on I felt for the characters and wanted them to have their happy ending. I'll read anything this author writes.
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