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Like Moonlight at Low Tide: Sometimes the Current Is the Only Thing That Saves You
For Missy Keiser, returning to Anna Maria Island, Florida, means two things: her mother made another poor decision with men, and Missy will have to reenter a world where she’s known as “Messy,” a social pariah who dared to have a crush on Sam King, the most popular boy in school.
But much has changed in the three years she’s been away. Missy’s next-door neighbor is no longer an elderly woman but Josh, an intriguing boy who seems genuinely interested in her. At school, she’s surprised to find few people remember who she once was. And any remaining taunts of Messy are silenced when Sam King gives her his nod of approval.
Just as things seem to be perfect, Josh’s sudden distance, her mother’s latest relationship implosion, and her brother’s strange behavior threaten to ruin it all. Missy is forced to decide between the boy she’s always wanted, a boy who is intent on trying to save her, and the brother she’s known all her life. And her decision could have consequences she can never undo.
But much has changed in the three years she’s been away. Missy’s next-door neighbor is no longer an elderly woman but Josh, an intriguing boy who seems genuinely interested in her. At school, she’s surprised to find few people remember who she once was. And any remaining taunts of Messy are silenced when Sam King gives her his nod of approval.
Just as things seem to be perfect, Josh’s sudden distance, her mother’s latest relationship implosion, and her brother’s strange behavior threaten to ruin it all. Missy is forced to decide between the boy she’s always wanted, a boy who is intent on trying to save her, and the brother she’s known all her life. And her decision could have consequences she can never undo.
256 pages, Paperback
First published September 4, 2012
11 people are currently reading
1286 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Quigley
1 book102 followersNicole Quigley is the author of Like Moonlight at Low Tide, a winner of the American Christian Fiction Writers "Carol Award" for best young adult fiction. For more than a decade, Nicole worked as a public relations adviser in Washington, D.C. She holds a B.S. from Appalachian State University, where she majored in Communications/Public Relations and minored in English. Nicole recently moved back to Anna Maria Island, FL, where she grew up. Visit her on Twitter: @nicolequigley. On Instagram: @nicolequigleywrites. And on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nicolequigley....
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December 12, 2017
Like Moonlight at Low Tide
Nicole Quigley
LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE is a heart breaking novel about self esteem, bullying, and teenage suicide. Once I started reading it, I had a very hard time putting it down. Nicole Quigley hooked me from the first chapter and never let me go. Missy Keiser is a junior in high school and she has just moved back to Anna Maria Island, Florida. When she was in middle school she was miserable there and couldn't wait to escape the island. Her school mates made fun of her for being poor and for the clothes she was wearing. Her mother moves the family away to Pennsylvania to follow her current boyfriend. Now Missy does not want to go back to school and face those mean kids once again but she has no choice. She wonders if her old middle school crush Sam King, will notice her this time around.
Missy needs to learn that she is worthy of love and friendship all the while dealing with her arch enemy, Tanya! Tanya makes Missy's life a living hell, now in high school just like she did in middle school. LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE kept me guessing right up until the very last page. I was cheering for Missy throughout the story, praying she would find acceptance and her own identity as well as life. Let me tell you, be prepared to be on one crazy emotional ride as your heart breaks for Missy. Why does being a teenager have to be so hard?
LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE is filled with life lessons as well as teenage life struggles and triumphs. I will admit that I cried and was taken on an emotional whirlwind that left me breathless at times. Schools should make this story a required read for middle schoolers! If you are looking for a good emotional story that will leave you wanting more, this is the book for you. I can not wait to see what Nicole Quigley writes next!
Nicole Quigley
LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE is a heart breaking novel about self esteem, bullying, and teenage suicide. Once I started reading it, I had a very hard time putting it down. Nicole Quigley hooked me from the first chapter and never let me go. Missy Keiser is a junior in high school and she has just moved back to Anna Maria Island, Florida. When she was in middle school she was miserable there and couldn't wait to escape the island. Her school mates made fun of her for being poor and for the clothes she was wearing. Her mother moves the family away to Pennsylvania to follow her current boyfriend. Now Missy does not want to go back to school and face those mean kids once again but she has no choice. She wonders if her old middle school crush Sam King, will notice her this time around.
Missy needs to learn that she is worthy of love and friendship all the while dealing with her arch enemy, Tanya! Tanya makes Missy's life a living hell, now in high school just like she did in middle school. LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE kept me guessing right up until the very last page. I was cheering for Missy throughout the story, praying she would find acceptance and her own identity as well as life. Let me tell you, be prepared to be on one crazy emotional ride as your heart breaks for Missy. Why does being a teenager have to be so hard?
LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE is filled with life lessons as well as teenage life struggles and triumphs. I will admit that I cried and was taken on an emotional whirlwind that left me breathless at times. Schools should make this story a required read for middle schoolers! If you are looking for a good emotional story that will leave you wanting more, this is the book for you. I can not wait to see what Nicole Quigley writes next!
August 25, 2015
Wow, I don't know how to start this review, maybe because I'm still reeling after having just finished it seconds ago.
I suppose the title is as good a place as any to start. Like Moonlight at Low Tide. Personally, I love this title, it's what drew me in initially. Perhaps that's because of my unabashed love for the sea. I'd probably read any book if the title mentioned the sea, heh.
But it was the first couple of pages that really hooked me. I love it when a story is told with the end first. One of my favorite examples is Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca. Opening with the end, I think, makes the reader ask "how will this happen?" rather than "what will happen?" which brings to life what a reading experience is supposed to be about! If we only care about what happens in the end, then we risk missing out on the journey. I know I've fallen prey to that - skimming madly through a book because I'm made to feel too anxious about what happens in the end. That's not what a book is about, especially not this one. This book is a journey, and we are meant to experience every step. It was brilliant of Nicole Quigley to write those first two pages the way she did. After that, I was hooked onto every word she wrote.
I'm not sure if I would classify this as a coming of age story, though Missy's age would put it into that category by default. First and foremost, I think this is a coming of hope and faith story, an awareness story. To anyone who hasn't been in Missy's position, she would seem like a very weak protagonist. She is insecure, broken in so many ways, not sure of anything, and constantly assuming that everything is her fault. Personally, I got her, because I've been in the same position. That only made me want to root for her even more because she's a real character. No, she's not the strong female lead that everyone seems obsessed with these days (not to say that some of those characters aren't just as real), but Missy is a character who reaches through the pages to those of us who aren't as gifted in the kick-ass department, who aren't able to find that courage that people so admire. She is a character that brings hope through her story, in some ways far more so than those characters who find that courage more easily and have a bow-and-arrow or sword or ninja skills to protect them.
Bullying is a prevalent issue in our society. The mass media has made sure to make everyone aware of how detrimental it is. What they fail to cover in the news stories and billboard slogans is what lies at the root of the issue and, more importantly, how to overcome it. This book covers it all - brilliantly, I will add. It would be easy to tell a story about how bullying caused a young person to take his own life, but this story goes beyond that. To redemption and discovery of a truth that is so important in every single human life.
Enough philosophizing on that. I'll talk about characters now. I've already discussed Missy, so I'll move onto the three important guys in her life - Josh, the neighbor boy who seems to understand her best; Robby, her brother; and Sam, the boy she has crushed on since middle school, at first to humiliating ends. Each of them served a monumental purpose in Missy's life. Each of them was fleshed out very well by the author and had a distinct voice that guided Missy on her journey. However, my only critique for the entire book is that I wish more had been shown about who Robby was. I've already said that he was fleshed out, so that isn't the problem. And I get that since the story is from Missy's 1st person POV that we couldn't see everything about Robby given he and Missy did not hang out much. But I wish his character hadn't been told to me - I would have liked to be shown more. For instance Missy told us in her thoughts that he was a trouble maker and had already been threatened with expulsion a couple of time... but I only saw one instance of him actually being the wild, rebellious child that we're told he is, and that scene felt kind of strange as a result.
Other than that, this was an incredibly well written book. The language - oh the descriptions Nicole Quigley brought to life! - was beautiful and meshed very well with the beauty of the title. My inner sea-lover was not disappointed one bit.
I love how organic Missy's relationships with Josh, Robby, and Sam were. They grew at their own individual paces. They didn't feel rushed or too slow because they were the driving forces of the novel, which is how it should be. I loved going up and down with Missy, feeling the emotions with her. The confusion and heart break and self-doubt were all so beautifully portrayed in her.
I'm so glad I read this, and I would recommend this book to everyone who isn't offended by the presence of God... though those people may need this more. Personally, as a person of faith, this story reaffirmed what I believe, and I'm thankful for that.
Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for providing me with this book through NetGalley.
I suppose the title is as good a place as any to start. Like Moonlight at Low Tide. Personally, I love this title, it's what drew me in initially. Perhaps that's because of my unabashed love for the sea. I'd probably read any book if the title mentioned the sea, heh.
But it was the first couple of pages that really hooked me. I love it when a story is told with the end first. One of my favorite examples is Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca. Opening with the end, I think, makes the reader ask "how will this happen?" rather than "what will happen?" which brings to life what a reading experience is supposed to be about! If we only care about what happens in the end, then we risk missing out on the journey. I know I've fallen prey to that - skimming madly through a book because I'm made to feel too anxious about what happens in the end. That's not what a book is about, especially not this one. This book is a journey, and we are meant to experience every step. It was brilliant of Nicole Quigley to write those first two pages the way she did. After that, I was hooked onto every word she wrote.
I'm not sure if I would classify this as a coming of age story, though Missy's age would put it into that category by default. First and foremost, I think this is a coming of hope and faith story, an awareness story. To anyone who hasn't been in Missy's position, she would seem like a very weak protagonist. She is insecure, broken in so many ways, not sure of anything, and constantly assuming that everything is her fault. Personally, I got her, because I've been in the same position. That only made me want to root for her even more because she's a real character. No, she's not the strong female lead that everyone seems obsessed with these days (not to say that some of those characters aren't just as real), but Missy is a character who reaches through the pages to those of us who aren't as gifted in the kick-ass department, who aren't able to find that courage that people so admire. She is a character that brings hope through her story, in some ways far more so than those characters who find that courage more easily and have a bow-and-arrow or sword or ninja skills to protect them.
Bullying is a prevalent issue in our society. The mass media has made sure to make everyone aware of how detrimental it is. What they fail to cover in the news stories and billboard slogans is what lies at the root of the issue and, more importantly, how to overcome it. This book covers it all - brilliantly, I will add. It would be easy to tell a story about how bullying caused a young person to take his own life, but this story goes beyond that. To redemption and discovery of a truth that is so important in every single human life.
Enough philosophizing on that. I'll talk about characters now. I've already discussed Missy, so I'll move onto the three important guys in her life - Josh, the neighbor boy who seems to understand her best; Robby, her brother; and Sam, the boy she has crushed on since middle school, at first to humiliating ends. Each of them served a monumental purpose in Missy's life. Each of them was fleshed out very well by the author and had a distinct voice that guided Missy on her journey. However, my only critique for the entire book is that I wish more had been shown about who Robby was. I've already said that he was fleshed out, so that isn't the problem. And I get that since the story is from Missy's 1st person POV that we couldn't see everything about Robby given he and Missy did not hang out much. But I wish his character hadn't been told to me - I would have liked to be shown more. For instance Missy told us in her thoughts that he was a trouble maker and had already been threatened with expulsion a couple of time... but I only saw one instance of him actually being the wild, rebellious child that we're told he is, and that scene felt kind of strange as a result.
Other than that, this was an incredibly well written book. The language - oh the descriptions Nicole Quigley brought to life! - was beautiful and meshed very well with the beauty of the title. My inner sea-lover was not disappointed one bit.
I love how organic Missy's relationships with Josh, Robby, and Sam were. They grew at their own individual paces. They didn't feel rushed or too slow because they were the driving forces of the novel, which is how it should be. I loved going up and down with Missy, feeling the emotions with her. The confusion and heart break and self-doubt were all so beautifully portrayed in her.
I'm so glad I read this, and I would recommend this book to everyone who isn't offended by the presence of God... though those people may need this more. Personally, as a person of faith, this story reaffirmed what I believe, and I'm thankful for that.
Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for providing me with this book through NetGalley.
December 20, 2017
Review and opinions by my 17 year old daughter:
Like Moonlight at Low Tide was certainly a very emotional story. It starts off with a vague description of what happened at the beginning of Melissa’s senior year, and then mentions the suicide of someone dear to her. BAM! Right off the bat. Except she never names the person who does it. She simply names the three potential fellows who could have: Her brother Robby, her long-time crush Sam, and her new friend Josh.
One who loves her. One who couldn’t. And one who didn’t know how.
I read this book chomping on my fingernails, unsure who would commit suicide before the end and terrified to get too attached and have my heart broken as well as Melissa’s. I determined to stay as far away from these guy characters as possible, unfortunately Melissa did not have any premonition of what was to come and so spent a lot of time in the presence of each guy and I ended up coming to care deeply for them (well except for Sam, I didn’t really like him) even though I had determined not to.
This made the reading all the more nerve wrecking. I’m surprised that I have hair and nails leftover from this book, but I did like the ending. Though I think I would have liked just a little bit more closure.
This book deals with the very tough subject matters of suicide and bullying and abandonment, but it does so very well.
I received a copy of this book for free. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Reviewed by Nicki
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Like Moonlight at Low Tide was certainly a very emotional story. It starts off with a vague description of what happened at the beginning of Melissa’s senior year, and then mentions the suicide of someone dear to her. BAM! Right off the bat. Except she never names the person who does it. She simply names the three potential fellows who could have: Her brother Robby, her long-time crush Sam, and her new friend Josh.
One who loves her. One who couldn’t. And one who didn’t know how.
I read this book chomping on my fingernails, unsure who would commit suicide before the end and terrified to get too attached and have my heart broken as well as Melissa’s. I determined to stay as far away from these guy characters as possible, unfortunately Melissa did not have any premonition of what was to come and so spent a lot of time in the presence of each guy and I ended up coming to care deeply for them (well except for Sam, I didn’t really like him) even though I had determined not to.
This made the reading all the more nerve wrecking. I’m surprised that I have hair and nails leftover from this book, but I did like the ending. Though I think I would have liked just a little bit more closure.
This book deals with the very tough subject matters of suicide and bullying and abandonment, but it does so very well.
I received a copy of this book for free. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Reviewed by Nicki
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
November 7, 2012
Oh my. Two words: tragic and encouraging.
I had no idea what this was going to be about. None. I seriously thought it might be a mermaid tale based on the cover and title. (I was wrong!) Turns out, this is a contemporary fiction book—which is not my usual genre of choice. But, since it was set in my home state of Florida I thought I would give it a try. So glad I did.
The characters are great. Missy and Josh are so layered that I was instantly sucked in to their stories. All of the characters are flawed, and that’s what makes them believable. Missy comes from a dysfunctional family (understatement) and she’s trying to not be dragged down by them. I could go on and on about Missy and how she represents so many lonely girls out there… the ones that are desperate to belong somewhere. But I won’t. That would give away too much of her story. I can say that she thinks Sam King is her answer. Oh, how sad and wrong she is. Through tragic circumstances she learns that Sam is just Sam—a teenage guy—and not her savior.
Then there is Josh. He’s quiet, observant, and protective of Missy—but why? You don’t really get an insight into Josh’s head, but I enjoyed his presence throughout the book. You always had the sense he was lurking in the shadows—like a superhero of some sort waiting to swoop in and save the day.
The plot is not straightforward at all. For the majority of the story it seems like it’s about Missy finding who she is, but then it takes a turn. You go from typical teenage story to a story of redeeming grace. That was not typical. It wasn’t overly done or being shoved down your throat. It was subtle, and I felt it added a poignant message that so many people need to hear.
Because there is that “turn” towards the end, this book won’t be for everyone. What I found a pleasant surprise might turn the next reader off. It’s hard to say. What I can say though is that Like Moonlight at Low Tide is a fresh insight into the loneliness that plagues so many people in our society.
I had no idea what this was going to be about. None. I seriously thought it might be a mermaid tale based on the cover and title. (I was wrong!) Turns out, this is a contemporary fiction book—which is not my usual genre of choice. But, since it was set in my home state of Florida I thought I would give it a try. So glad I did.
The characters are great. Missy and Josh are so layered that I was instantly sucked in to their stories. All of the characters are flawed, and that’s what makes them believable. Missy comes from a dysfunctional family (understatement) and she’s trying to not be dragged down by them. I could go on and on about Missy and how she represents so many lonely girls out there… the ones that are desperate to belong somewhere. But I won’t. That would give away too much of her story. I can say that she thinks Sam King is her answer. Oh, how sad and wrong she is. Through tragic circumstances she learns that Sam is just Sam—a teenage guy—and not her savior.
Then there is Josh. He’s quiet, observant, and protective of Missy—but why? You don’t really get an insight into Josh’s head, but I enjoyed his presence throughout the book. You always had the sense he was lurking in the shadows—like a superhero of some sort waiting to swoop in and save the day.
The plot is not straightforward at all. For the majority of the story it seems like it’s about Missy finding who she is, but then it takes a turn. You go from typical teenage story to a story of redeeming grace. That was not typical. It wasn’t overly done or being shoved down your throat. It was subtle, and I felt it added a poignant message that so many people need to hear.
Because there is that “turn” towards the end, this book won’t be for everyone. What I found a pleasant surprise might turn the next reader off. It’s hard to say. What I can say though is that Like Moonlight at Low Tide is a fresh insight into the loneliness that plagues so many people in our society.
August 6, 2016
When Melissa Keiser returns to her hometown in the middle of her junior year of high school, her goal is simple: stay under the radar of the middle-school bullies who convinced her she was the ugliest girl. But now, Missy is sixteen – and very different from her middle-school self and the popular kids who once made her life miserable take notice. Escaping her dysfunctional home life, she must choose where to place her loyalties: with a long-time crush and his link to the popular crowd, the cryptic boy next door she can’t seem to shake, or her apathetic surfer brother who constantly reminds her of her past. As Missy makes her choice, she draws closer and closer to life she always wanted – but will that life satisfy her longing? Shaken by tragedy, Missy must find the truth about the three boys who captured her heart and discover her satisfaction in the most unexpected place of all.
I thoroughly enjoyed Nicole Quigley’s first novel, Like Moonlight at Low Tide. As a story geared toward young adults, it provided a welcome change of pace from all the inspirational romance I have been reading lately. (Of course, I very much enjoy inspirational romance, but every now and then, something a bit different is great.) Quigley creates a genuine and enthralling set of characters that captured my imagination, exploring themes of bullying, peer pressure, tragic loss and redemption. As Missy struggles to better her life, my heart, at times, broke and at others, soared, as I felt the emotions with her. I would definitely recommend this novel to anyone with an interest in inspirational young adult fiction. As usual, I thank BookSneeze for providing me with a free copy of this book and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)
http://pagebypagebookbybook.blogspot....
I thoroughly enjoyed Nicole Quigley’s first novel, Like Moonlight at Low Tide. As a story geared toward young adults, it provided a welcome change of pace from all the inspirational romance I have been reading lately. (Of course, I very much enjoy inspirational romance, but every now and then, something a bit different is great.) Quigley creates a genuine and enthralling set of characters that captured my imagination, exploring themes of bullying, peer pressure, tragic loss and redemption. As Missy struggles to better her life, my heart, at times, broke and at others, soared, as I felt the emotions with her. I would definitely recommend this novel to anyone with an interest in inspirational young adult fiction. As usual, I thank BookSneeze for providing me with a free copy of this book and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)
http://pagebypagebookbybook.blogspot....
December 9, 2017
Oh, wow…this book ripped out my heart and stomped on it. It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that made me feel this way. This book covers a lot of difficult issues but they are handled very well. The issue of suicide is dealt with in a realistic way…the author quietly gives hints to the warning signs leading up to it and the aftermath is heartbreaking.
I really liked Melissa’s character…I related to her feelings of not wanting to stand out or be the center of attention, I also was taken back to my Junior High days when reading about the torment she went through by her peers in middle school. The only thing I disliked was that she called her mother by her first name, which seemed a bit strange and disrespectful.
The faith content was good. I liked the fact that one of the characters was unashamed about going to church and reading his Bible.
The relationships between the characters were enjoyable to read about and kept me guessing at times.
Overall, this was a very good YA contemporary story with a lot of depth. I would recommend it for ages 16 and over because of some of the content (underage drinking, partying, sexual innuendos, etc.).
My Rating: 4.5 stars
I received this book from Celebrate Lit Publishing to review honestly. All opinions are my own.
I really liked Melissa’s character…I related to her feelings of not wanting to stand out or be the center of attention, I also was taken back to my Junior High days when reading about the torment she went through by her peers in middle school. The only thing I disliked was that she called her mother by her first name, which seemed a bit strange and disrespectful.
The faith content was good. I liked the fact that one of the characters was unashamed about going to church and reading his Bible.
The relationships between the characters were enjoyable to read about and kept me guessing at times.
Overall, this was a very good YA contemporary story with a lot of depth. I would recommend it for ages 16 and over because of some of the content (underage drinking, partying, sexual innuendos, etc.).
My Rating: 4.5 stars
I received this book from Celebrate Lit Publishing to review honestly. All opinions are my own.
January 21, 2015
Like Moonlight At Low Tide was a wonderful book. The beginning of the story was good and grabbed my attention (read a sample and you'll see what I mean), but it wasn't until I was well into the book that I started to love the story and really care about the characters.
I had no idea what was going to happen to the characters or how the book was going to end-- and when I reached those last couple chapters I got really nervous that something I dreaded was going to happen. But, the book ended the way it should and I loved it.
Overall, a very good read. I'm not usually a fan of coming-of-age novels, but I loved Like Moonlight At Low Tide. I recommend it to older teens and adults who like realistic YA fiction.
*I did not get this book for review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I had no idea what was going to happen to the characters or how the book was going to end-- and when I reached those last couple chapters I got really nervous that something I dreaded was going to happen. But, the book ended the way it should and I loved it.
Overall, a very good read. I'm not usually a fan of coming-of-age novels, but I loved Like Moonlight At Low Tide. I recommend it to older teens and adults who like realistic YA fiction.
*I did not get this book for review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 26, 2018
This is a lovely and inspiring book, well written and richly layered, that deserves to be read by a large audience. Compelling and captivating, the story will pull readers right in.
While the target market might be teens, it moved me despite the fact I’m closer to my 50th high school reunion than I am to my junior prom. Evocative and spiritual, the book carries an important message about finding one’s self worth and finding God that transcends age and youth.
The descriptive passages of Anna Maria Island on Florida’s Gulf coast (where the story is set) made me want to race off to the island and go swimming in the tides. I live near Anna Maria, and the author did the place justice in her beautiful descriptions.
Protagonist Missy, or Messy as she was teased when younger, goes from being the ugly duckling, bullied outcast in middle school to being a beautiful young woman on the arms of the football hero during her junior year. This transition doesn’t bring her the joy she thought it would. For one thing, troubles with her mother and her family lead to tragedy, and Missy must learn to cope with grief and her own low self-esteem. The love and concern of a good neighbor keep Missy from totally succumbing to her grief—but it’s only when Missy opens her heart to God that she finds peace. Along the route of her emotional journey, Missy learns some valuable lessons about maturity and compassion. But this isn’t just a modern morality tale, it’s a riveting grand story about growing up and finding love.
A grand book, which any age or faith should enjoy.
While the target market might be teens, it moved me despite the fact I’m closer to my 50th high school reunion than I am to my junior prom. Evocative and spiritual, the book carries an important message about finding one’s self worth and finding God that transcends age and youth.
The descriptive passages of Anna Maria Island on Florida’s Gulf coast (where the story is set) made me want to race off to the island and go swimming in the tides. I live near Anna Maria, and the author did the place justice in her beautiful descriptions.
Protagonist Missy, or Messy as she was teased when younger, goes from being the ugly duckling, bullied outcast in middle school to being a beautiful young woman on the arms of the football hero during her junior year. This transition doesn’t bring her the joy she thought it would. For one thing, troubles with her mother and her family lead to tragedy, and Missy must learn to cope with grief and her own low self-esteem. The love and concern of a good neighbor keep Missy from totally succumbing to her grief—but it’s only when Missy opens her heart to God that she finds peace. Along the route of her emotional journey, Missy learns some valuable lessons about maturity and compassion. But this isn’t just a modern morality tale, it’s a riveting grand story about growing up and finding love.
A grand book, which any age or faith should enjoy.
December 8, 2021
I can’t really explain what I felt after I finished this book. It just wasn’t I expected. The plot twist was such a relief to me. I thought Josh was the one being pertained to in chapter one. I already knew that Robby would end up dying because of the multiple disappointments in his life, but it still didn’t hurt any less. I devoured this book in a day, and had a mixed emotions because it kept changing my speculations about the ending. I swear if Josh had died, I would have rated this 3 or 4 just because I love his character so much and his moments with Missy. I can also somewhat relate to Missy’s low self-esteem and insecurities. This book was wonderfully written that raised awareness about bullying as well as the importance of faith in God. The author didn’t dissapoint me and it is just saddening that this book is so underrated. It really took me out of a reading slump.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2017
I really did like the story. I had no idea what adventure or journey i was going to go on but I soon found out!! I really dont care for some of the teen books bc some are very depressing but i was really surprised by thos one!!! I enjoyed it because from page one, Missy draws you into her story.
Another reason I enjoyed this book was because it was told in 1st person and since it was told this way it makes me feel like I'm inside the person's head taking their journey with them!!!
And, may I say that cover of this book is very hauntingly beautiful and it was what drew me to read it.
This book is full of surprises that's for sure!! I won't tell because it will give it away!! I can't wait for y'all to read it!!
I can relate to Missy in many ways.
Another reason I enjoyed this book was because it was told in 1st person and since it was told this way it makes me feel like I'm inside the person's head taking their journey with them!!!
And, may I say that cover of this book is very hauntingly beautiful and it was what drew me to read it.
This book is full of surprises that's for sure!! I won't tell because it will give it away!! I can't wait for y'all to read it!!
I can relate to Missy in many ways.
August 24, 2012
I fell in love with this story in the first few pages. This story that will keep you turning pages with it's suspense and vulnerability, and a cast of characters with a diverse range of emotional depth. It's a fantastic read, if you have any hormonal reaction at all to anything, this book will get you. It deals with the loss of a loved one, the give and take of high school popularity, the bullies that plague and haunt us through our memories and how we let them rule our futures.
Missy is the girl that people pity, she doesn't come from much, and not much is expected of her, considering who her mother is and what her mother's choices are, and the reader gets to see the mental, spiritual and emotional development she goes through first hand. I think Missy is the perfect female MC for contemporary fiction because she is a typical teenager. I think she is very relatable. Who hasn't been bullied somewhere during their school years? Those who are like Tanya...
Tanya is the high school bully that everyone has in their past, and dreads ever facing again. On more than one page I wanted to reach into the story and punch her in the face, for her sometimes subtle, sometimes deliberate berating of Missy. The world is hard enough on girls and women, we don't need to beat each other up as well. Tanya needs to learn some hard lessons in humility, compassion and kindness.
Missy's brother , Robby is the troublemaker that always seems to be left to his own devices and no one really gives much thought to. Some would like to fly under the radar this way, but really, Robby wasn't that person. He needs his family and just that one person to believe enough in him to turn it around. Sometimes just believing in yourself isn't enough.
Sam is the high school jock that everyone wants to date, and he actually seems nice enough. There were hints here and there of him being less than a gentleman, but really, he was painted as an average, teenage boy, which is probably why he will never be good enough for Missy. Missy is used to average, and below average, in life. She's had enough mediocrity, she deserves something great, like a gentleman who respects her and more importantly, understands forgiveness, faith and respects her. Enter Josh.
I loved his character. Josh was very accommodating to Missy and very "turn the other cheek" to the jerks in his high school. He never holds against others the wrongs they commit when they don't understand what they're doing. The opposite is also true: if you know you're doing something that's wrong, he will expect you to face the consequences. The best thing about Josh is that he sneaks up on you. He keeps saving the day but he's so humble it almost goes unnoticed. Nicole Quigley has a very unassuming way of showing us Josh's worth and it works, marvelously. It's obvious that he likes Melissa, but it's hard to see how it will come together. When all these plot twists keep coming, some as subtle as the sand shifts on the shore and some crashing into the reader as hard as waves, some may believe it's not meant to be for Missy and Josh. Some see Missy and Sam continuing their romance, but really, what will the outcome be? You'll just have to read it and find out!
The poignant story breeches difficult issues that Missy has grown up, physically, but she is about to be very surprised by the reaction of her peers to her return to the island. She will have to decide if she's happy with this reaction, or if her heart yearns for a different kind of approval and friendship from someone else. Is what she's wanted for years going to be enough when the seas get rough? What is really going to give her lasting happiness? In this amazing book, Missy will answer these questions, learn what it means to have faith, and what type of relationship it takes with God to maintain that faith.
This is one of my favorite contemporary reads of the year, please pick it up and give it a try. I don't think it's possible to be disappointed in this book. READ IT, READ IT, READ IT!
Missy is the girl that people pity, she doesn't come from much, and not much is expected of her, considering who her mother is and what her mother's choices are, and the reader gets to see the mental, spiritual and emotional development she goes through first hand. I think Missy is the perfect female MC for contemporary fiction because she is a typical teenager. I think she is very relatable. Who hasn't been bullied somewhere during their school years? Those who are like Tanya...
Tanya is the high school bully that everyone has in their past, and dreads ever facing again. On more than one page I wanted to reach into the story and punch her in the face, for her sometimes subtle, sometimes deliberate berating of Missy. The world is hard enough on girls and women, we don't need to beat each other up as well. Tanya needs to learn some hard lessons in humility, compassion and kindness.
Missy's brother , Robby is the troublemaker that always seems to be left to his own devices and no one really gives much thought to. Some would like to fly under the radar this way, but really, Robby wasn't that person. He needs his family and just that one person to believe enough in him to turn it around. Sometimes just believing in yourself isn't enough.
Sam is the high school jock that everyone wants to date, and he actually seems nice enough. There were hints here and there of him being less than a gentleman, but really, he was painted as an average, teenage boy, which is probably why he will never be good enough for Missy. Missy is used to average, and below average, in life. She's had enough mediocrity, she deserves something great, like a gentleman who respects her and more importantly, understands forgiveness, faith and respects her. Enter Josh.
I loved his character. Josh was very accommodating to Missy and very "turn the other cheek" to the jerks in his high school. He never holds against others the wrongs they commit when they don't understand what they're doing. The opposite is also true: if you know you're doing something that's wrong, he will expect you to face the consequences. The best thing about Josh is that he sneaks up on you. He keeps saving the day but he's so humble it almost goes unnoticed. Nicole Quigley has a very unassuming way of showing us Josh's worth and it works, marvelously. It's obvious that he likes Melissa, but it's hard to see how it will come together. When all these plot twists keep coming, some as subtle as the sand shifts on the shore and some crashing into the reader as hard as waves, some may believe it's not meant to be for Missy and Josh. Some see Missy and Sam continuing their romance, but really, what will the outcome be? You'll just have to read it and find out!
The poignant story breeches difficult issues that Missy has grown up, physically, but she is about to be very surprised by the reaction of her peers to her return to the island. She will have to decide if she's happy with this reaction, or if her heart yearns for a different kind of approval and friendship from someone else. Is what she's wanted for years going to be enough when the seas get rough? What is really going to give her lasting happiness? In this amazing book, Missy will answer these questions, learn what it means to have faith, and what type of relationship it takes with God to maintain that faith.
This is one of my favorite contemporary reads of the year, please pick it up and give it a try. I don't think it's possible to be disappointed in this book. READ IT, READ IT, READ IT!
September 19, 2013
The opening lines make sure that you know that this is about a suicide and the aftermath – from the perspective of someone left behind. I wasn’t too sure that I wanted to get that deeply into a book like this. I have a teenage daughter who was ruthlessly bullied in elementary school. It became so out of control that we ended up homeschooling her instead of sending her to middle school. (And thankfully that was one of the best decisions we’ve made as a family.) But because we know what it’s like, it was agonizing to look at the situation through a teenager’s eyes and as a parent, I wasn’t sure if I was ready for that. Throw in suicide and that’s usually a book I avoid like the plague. I empathize too much and that sort of situation would be too difficult for me to handle.
Thank God I overruled those feelings and chose to review this book. After reading it, I fully believe that this could be one of the best YA novels I’ve ever read. Forget the “Christian” label – this book is exceptional no matter whether you’re Christian or not. I think every parent should read this book. Bar none. And I think that every teenager should read it as well.
The writing was powerful and strong. It left no room for doubt or even wiggle room that could take you out of the story. The voices were real. Painfully so. The situations were agonizingly honest and deep. Rich with detail, Quigley leaves no stone unturned in peeling back the layers of this girl’s story and sharing every painful moment. It sounds heavy and dark but surprisingly, it’s not. Missy has an incredible spirit that shines through even the hardest situations. You find yourself rooting for her. Praying that she comes through on the other side. There were moments I wanted to gather her to myself and give her a hug from some adult who really cares. There were deep emotions that ricocheted through the plotlines in the same way they roll through a teenager’s life and leave them unsettled. There were moments you couldn’t help but laugh and paragraphs that made you want to cry.
So many Christian books these days whitewash what the teenage experience is like. They set up an ideal that is wonderful but often unobtainable. They aren’t realistic. It would be fabulous to have a teenager who was never confronted with sinful nature or that slipped up and made mistakes. It would be great to understand God’s plan without question and be able to turn away the peer pressure without a thought. But I have not yet met a teenager – or an adult for that matter – who could live that sort of life.
Missy makes mistakes. She screws up and she knows it. So do the people around her. But she isn’t a totally lost cause. And she doesn’t know that. It’s up to her neighbor, his grandmother, and a few other people in her life to show her that.
This story is utterly gorgeous. It firmly slammed itself directly into my top ten for 2012 when I read it. I cannot recommend it highly enough or strongly enough. Nicole Quigley is an author that is firmly in my sights now and I cannot wait to see where the rest of her career goes from here.
Review copy provided by the publicist. Thank you Candace!
Thank God I overruled those feelings and chose to review this book. After reading it, I fully believe that this could be one of the best YA novels I’ve ever read. Forget the “Christian” label – this book is exceptional no matter whether you’re Christian or not. I think every parent should read this book. Bar none. And I think that every teenager should read it as well.
The writing was powerful and strong. It left no room for doubt or even wiggle room that could take you out of the story. The voices were real. Painfully so. The situations were agonizingly honest and deep. Rich with detail, Quigley leaves no stone unturned in peeling back the layers of this girl’s story and sharing every painful moment. It sounds heavy and dark but surprisingly, it’s not. Missy has an incredible spirit that shines through even the hardest situations. You find yourself rooting for her. Praying that she comes through on the other side. There were moments I wanted to gather her to myself and give her a hug from some adult who really cares. There were deep emotions that ricocheted through the plotlines in the same way they roll through a teenager’s life and leave them unsettled. There were moments you couldn’t help but laugh and paragraphs that made you want to cry.
So many Christian books these days whitewash what the teenage experience is like. They set up an ideal that is wonderful but often unobtainable. They aren’t realistic. It would be fabulous to have a teenager who was never confronted with sinful nature or that slipped up and made mistakes. It would be great to understand God’s plan without question and be able to turn away the peer pressure without a thought. But I have not yet met a teenager – or an adult for that matter – who could live that sort of life.
Missy makes mistakes. She screws up and she knows it. So do the people around her. But she isn’t a totally lost cause. And she doesn’t know that. It’s up to her neighbor, his grandmother, and a few other people in her life to show her that.
This story is utterly gorgeous. It firmly slammed itself directly into my top ten for 2012 when I read it. I cannot recommend it highly enough or strongly enough. Nicole Quigley is an author that is firmly in my sights now and I cannot wait to see where the rest of her career goes from here.
Review copy provided by the publicist. Thank you Candace!
October 26, 2012
Compelling, Gut-wrenching, and Romantic Debut.
This is a beautifully written story with a powerful message about love, forgiveness and discovering your true worth. Missy has not had the easiest life, whether it be because of her mother's reckless lifestyle or the bullying she's endured at the hands of her classmates and my heart broke for her. She may have left Middle School as an awkward preteen but when she returns to start the second half of her Junior year, she's anything but awkward and everyone is taking notice, including Sam, the school's "It" boy she's crushed on for years. Missy is so caught up in the past and the way she was treated before that she can't see how beautiful she is now so all the attention she receives is nerve racking for her.
Sam and the popular crowd are all Missy has ever wanted and she's convinced that if she can just fit in, it will mean she's finally worth being loved. Missy soon discovers that getting everything we think we want can still leave us feeling empty and unsatisfied. (Been there. Done that.) Josh, her next door neighbor is cute, kind and popular in his own way but seems to prefer hanging out with his youth group friends over the regular teen party scene. Josh also has a front row seat to the mess that is Missy's home life but instead of judging or gossiping about it, he's just there for her. He shares his faith with Missy, trying to get her to see that she's worth more than what some boys want from her and that God's grace is enough to cover anything we could ever do. Josh also has a way of showing up at just the right time which only adds to his swoonability. Missy isn't sure what to make of Josh's God but can't deny that she like the way she feels about herself when she spends time with Josh. Sam is nice too and he also makes her feel all the feels but she isn't convinced Sam understands her the way Josh does. Missy soon finds herself caught between her feelings for both boys but the drama of her home life always seems to take center stage.
Her Mom continues to make poor choices but she crosses a line when she decides to get involved with someone who has influence in Missy's brother, Robby's life. Missy's status at school seems to hit and all time high and just when she thinks her life couldn't get any better, tragedy strikes, bringing with it a storm that leaves her devastated and guilt-ridden for the boy she couldn't save. Things go from bad to worse when the one person she wants most pulls away with no explanation leaving her alone and hurt. In a gut-wrenching conclusion that left me glued to my seat, Missy finally has to decide what she believes about herself, her life and whether or not God really does exist.
I really enjoyed this! These are strong characters, the topics relevant to today's teens and the message wasn't pushy or preachy. I'm also familiar with the area in the book which always makes a book more interesting. I look forward to seeing what Nicole Quigley comes up with next.
This is a beautifully written story with a powerful message about love, forgiveness and discovering your true worth. Missy has not had the easiest life, whether it be because of her mother's reckless lifestyle or the bullying she's endured at the hands of her classmates and my heart broke for her. She may have left Middle School as an awkward preteen but when she returns to start the second half of her Junior year, she's anything but awkward and everyone is taking notice, including Sam, the school's "It" boy she's crushed on for years. Missy is so caught up in the past and the way she was treated before that she can't see how beautiful she is now so all the attention she receives is nerve racking for her.
Sam and the popular crowd are all Missy has ever wanted and she's convinced that if she can just fit in, it will mean she's finally worth being loved. Missy soon discovers that getting everything we think we want can still leave us feeling empty and unsatisfied. (Been there. Done that.) Josh, her next door neighbor is cute, kind and popular in his own way but seems to prefer hanging out with his youth group friends over the regular teen party scene. Josh also has a front row seat to the mess that is Missy's home life but instead of judging or gossiping about it, he's just there for her. He shares his faith with Missy, trying to get her to see that she's worth more than what some boys want from her and that God's grace is enough to cover anything we could ever do. Josh also has a way of showing up at just the right time which only adds to his swoonability. Missy isn't sure what to make of Josh's God but can't deny that she like the way she feels about herself when she spends time with Josh. Sam is nice too and he also makes her feel all the feels but she isn't convinced Sam understands her the way Josh does. Missy soon finds herself caught between her feelings for both boys but the drama of her home life always seems to take center stage.
Her Mom continues to make poor choices but she crosses a line when she decides to get involved with someone who has influence in Missy's brother, Robby's life. Missy's status at school seems to hit and all time high and just when she thinks her life couldn't get any better, tragedy strikes, bringing with it a storm that leaves her devastated and guilt-ridden for the boy she couldn't save. Things go from bad to worse when the one person she wants most pulls away with no explanation leaving her alone and hurt. In a gut-wrenching conclusion that left me glued to my seat, Missy finally has to decide what she believes about herself, her life and whether or not God really does exist.
I really enjoyed this! These are strong characters, the topics relevant to today's teens and the message wasn't pushy or preachy. I'm also familiar with the area in the book which always makes a book more interesting. I look forward to seeing what Nicole Quigley comes up with next.
October 16, 2012
Review originally posted on Rather Be Reading Blog:
It’s no surprise Melissa isn’t totally thrilled with her move back to Florida.
After 3 years away, she has no faith that the bullies who made her life miserable have grown up in the slightest or that she is confident enough to ignore their comments.
Despite having the support of her old best friend and her boyfriend, Melissa’s life starts to change when Sam King — the literal king of high school — starts to show interest in her and the murmurings from the peanut gallery start to die down. All of a sudden she’s sitting at the cool kids table, has exclusive invites to the best parties, and best of all, is kissing Sam, the boy she has always had a crush on.
But I wouldn’t call her happy. Sure, she’s coasting through high school now but she can’t ignore her mom’s revolving bedroom partners or the fact that she never knows what kind of mood her brother Robby will be in. She hates her clothes, doesn’t love how she looks, worries about her family’s reputation in town, and still feels happiest and most at home when she is swimming.
Or hanging out with Josh, the mysterious surfer boy from next door. Cue the love triangle! Josh is thoughtful and sweet, and seems to always be watching out for Melissa but she’s never sure if he actually likes her more than a friend. He doesn’t belong to any one exclusive group in school; he’s the kind of guy who is just friends with everybody. I loved how Quigley made Josh an active member in his church youth group as well. His religion never dominated who he was, and only supplemented his character. (This made me think about the role of religion in books and how I prefer to learn about a character’s beliefs without feeling like I’m being preached to.)
A really serious event halfway through the book made me question the paths Quigley chose for her characters. I would rather trade such significant and painful developments for more attention being paid to small details, character voice, and the story’s structure. Because even the aftermath felt a bit incomplete. While the novel reeled me in and I cared for Melissa, I couldn’t help but think how much stronger her story could have been and how much better I could have gotten to know her. Much of the time she felt like a shadow of herself, relying on situations to steer her in certain directions and not her own gut.
Would she ever confront her past? When would she learn to trust herself?
Once I reached the ending, I was still questioning if she had learned much at all.
While the overabundance of storylines gets weighty, Quigley does manage to raise many important questions through Like Moonlight at Low Tide… about bullying, selfish parents, our personal beliefs, and the quest to find our own peace.
It’s no surprise Melissa isn’t totally thrilled with her move back to Florida.
After 3 years away, she has no faith that the bullies who made her life miserable have grown up in the slightest or that she is confident enough to ignore their comments.
Despite having the support of her old best friend and her boyfriend, Melissa’s life starts to change when Sam King — the literal king of high school — starts to show interest in her and the murmurings from the peanut gallery start to die down. All of a sudden she’s sitting at the cool kids table, has exclusive invites to the best parties, and best of all, is kissing Sam, the boy she has always had a crush on.
But I wouldn’t call her happy. Sure, she’s coasting through high school now but she can’t ignore her mom’s revolving bedroom partners or the fact that she never knows what kind of mood her brother Robby will be in. She hates her clothes, doesn’t love how she looks, worries about her family’s reputation in town, and still feels happiest and most at home when she is swimming.
Or hanging out with Josh, the mysterious surfer boy from next door. Cue the love triangle! Josh is thoughtful and sweet, and seems to always be watching out for Melissa but she’s never sure if he actually likes her more than a friend. He doesn’t belong to any one exclusive group in school; he’s the kind of guy who is just friends with everybody. I loved how Quigley made Josh an active member in his church youth group as well. His religion never dominated who he was, and only supplemented his character. (This made me think about the role of religion in books and how I prefer to learn about a character’s beliefs without feeling like I’m being preached to.)
A really serious event halfway through the book made me question the paths Quigley chose for her characters. I would rather trade such significant and painful developments for more attention being paid to small details, character voice, and the story’s structure. Because even the aftermath felt a bit incomplete. While the novel reeled me in and I cared for Melissa, I couldn’t help but think how much stronger her story could have been and how much better I could have gotten to know her. Much of the time she felt like a shadow of herself, relying on situations to steer her in certain directions and not her own gut.
Would she ever confront her past? When would she learn to trust herself?
Once I reached the ending, I was still questioning if she had learned much at all.
While the overabundance of storylines gets weighty, Quigley does manage to raise many important questions through Like Moonlight at Low Tide… about bullying, selfish parents, our personal beliefs, and the quest to find our own peace.
November 24, 2013
This book sucked me in—fast. I opened it up in the morning and finished it by afternoon. As cliché as it sounds, I couldn’t put it down. Like Moonlight at Low Tide isn’t just a story—it’s an experience.
I love the ease of the first person narration, and the vivid imagery Nicole Quigley created. This story deals with a myriad of emotions, and has a wide cast of well-developed and memorable characters.
Even though I wasn’t bullied during my school years, I can still sympathize with the main character, Missy Keiser. Almost anyone can relate to those coming-of-age school years, and the feelings of being awkward and self-conscious, but Missy dealt with much more than that. A hard life. An absent father. A not-so-attentive, promiscuous mother. Poverty. Though her little sister was too young to realize their plight, Missy and her brother dealt with more than their share of brands-on-their-foreheads (so to speak.) Being teased and bullied, they found their own ways of dealing with such an unfair life.
Missy is my favorite character, but a close second is her next-door neighbor, Josh Durham. His quiet demeanor and subtle nuances add so much to this story. To me—he’s the most memorable of them all.
To be totally honest, there are a few places in the book that sound a little preachy. Being a Christian, I don’t mind that at all, but for someone who is not, this might be a slight turn-off. Those scenes, however, are brief and do not take away from the story. On the contrary, they are powerful and even life changing.
In short—I LOVED this story, and hate to part with these characters. If Nicole Quigley decides to write a sequel, I’ll most certainly purchase it.
Cover: Love it
Title: Love it
Publisher: Blink
Pages: 256
Pace: Steady
First Lines: People never ask me the right question when they ask me what happened the beginning of my senior year. They always ask what his last words were.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a Review Copy free from the BookSneeze blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The options I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
I love the ease of the first person narration, and the vivid imagery Nicole Quigley created. This story deals with a myriad of emotions, and has a wide cast of well-developed and memorable characters.
Even though I wasn’t bullied during my school years, I can still sympathize with the main character, Missy Keiser. Almost anyone can relate to those coming-of-age school years, and the feelings of being awkward and self-conscious, but Missy dealt with much more than that. A hard life. An absent father. A not-so-attentive, promiscuous mother. Poverty. Though her little sister was too young to realize their plight, Missy and her brother dealt with more than their share of brands-on-their-foreheads (so to speak.) Being teased and bullied, they found their own ways of dealing with such an unfair life.
Missy is my favorite character, but a close second is her next-door neighbor, Josh Durham. His quiet demeanor and subtle nuances add so much to this story. To me—he’s the most memorable of them all.
To be totally honest, there are a few places in the book that sound a little preachy. Being a Christian, I don’t mind that at all, but for someone who is not, this might be a slight turn-off. Those scenes, however, are brief and do not take away from the story. On the contrary, they are powerful and even life changing.
In short—I LOVED this story, and hate to part with these characters. If Nicole Quigley decides to write a sequel, I’ll most certainly purchase it.
Cover: Love it
Title: Love it
Publisher: Blink
Pages: 256
Pace: Steady
First Lines: People never ask me the right question when they ask me what happened the beginning of my senior year. They always ask what his last words were.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a Review Copy free from the BookSneeze blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The options I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
June 15, 2014
REVIEW
Humans have the habit of overlooking what they feel is uncomfortable or what they don't want to deal with. We sometimes go through life with blinders on. We look straight forward and anything in our way of comfort we choose to ignore.
At a young age, Missy was bulled for the mere name she was given. She was known as "Messy" Missy. Bullies don't realize that they are hurting someone, sometimes, beyond repair. It can do such damage to a person's self confidence and their own perception of who they are. Sometimes it can hurt a person so bad that they contemplate suicide and some even follow through, especially our young and teen agers. That is a time when their confidence needs to be puffed up, not deflated. Sometimes, even after the bully has ceased, for whtever reason, the bullying continues. Why? Because we don't forget those terrible words, those hurtful words, so we continue to think that the bully was right. It isn't the bully who is doing it this time, it's the person that was bullied. Sometimes we can hurt ourselves worse than anyone else ever thought of. The issue of suicide can be an end in some cases and the author shows that through a teen age girl, Melissa, nicknamed Missy, who has a mother who gets around and a father who doesn't work . Add that to bullying from kids at school or kids down the block or even adults and what do you have? In the eyes of someone who is hurting, you have the possibility of suicide. They just can't take it any longer. They just want someone to care, someone to talk to who won't put them down. The author brings out some ways that can be taken to talk to someone, to let the hurt out and someone who cares in. So we need not judge so harshly. We have no idea what another person has or is going through. Judgement can be extremely harsh and hurtful. The author tackled this subject with great tact and understanding. The ending may be a surprise showing that if someone has faith, has a way to let the hurt out positively and a little maturity, it can be worked through. Bullying doesn't have to take over anyone's life, but sadly it does sometimes. Help in anyway you can to STOP THE BULLYING!
I was given a complimentary copy of LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE from the author, Nicole Quigley and Zondervan Publishing for my view of the book. No other compensation took place.
Humans have the habit of overlooking what they feel is uncomfortable or what they don't want to deal with. We sometimes go through life with blinders on. We look straight forward and anything in our way of comfort we choose to ignore.
At a young age, Missy was bulled for the mere name she was given. She was known as "Messy" Missy. Bullies don't realize that they are hurting someone, sometimes, beyond repair. It can do such damage to a person's self confidence and their own perception of who they are. Sometimes it can hurt a person so bad that they contemplate suicide and some even follow through, especially our young and teen agers. That is a time when their confidence needs to be puffed up, not deflated. Sometimes, even after the bully has ceased, for whtever reason, the bullying continues. Why? Because we don't forget those terrible words, those hurtful words, so we continue to think that the bully was right. It isn't the bully who is doing it this time, it's the person that was bullied. Sometimes we can hurt ourselves worse than anyone else ever thought of. The issue of suicide can be an end in some cases and the author shows that through a teen age girl, Melissa, nicknamed Missy, who has a mother who gets around and a father who doesn't work . Add that to bullying from kids at school or kids down the block or even adults and what do you have? In the eyes of someone who is hurting, you have the possibility of suicide. They just can't take it any longer. They just want someone to care, someone to talk to who won't put them down. The author brings out some ways that can be taken to talk to someone, to let the hurt out and someone who cares in. So we need not judge so harshly. We have no idea what another person has or is going through. Judgement can be extremely harsh and hurtful. The author tackled this subject with great tact and understanding. The ending may be a surprise showing that if someone has faith, has a way to let the hurt out positively and a little maturity, it can be worked through. Bullying doesn't have to take over anyone's life, but sadly it does sometimes. Help in anyway you can to STOP THE BULLYING!
I was given a complimentary copy of LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE from the author, Nicole Quigley and Zondervan Publishing for my view of the book. No other compensation took place.
October 26, 2012
Missy is returning to Anna Maria Island mid-junior year. This is not a place she wants to be. When she left in junior high she was known as Messy, a girl all the guys barked at. She crushed on the cutest boy in her grade, Sam King, but when a popular girl found out about it, she made sure Missy paid dearly. Now she shudders at the thought of being called Messy and being outcasted again.
Miraculously though things have changed. And Sam King actually likes her now. But the good things happening at school don't change the fact that her home-life is sort of a wreck. She doesn't remember her bio dad and her mom serial dates (mostly loser) guys. Her new next-door-neighbor Josh tries to look out for Missy and offer her some form of escape, but eventually that blows up. When her mom starts dating her brother's boss at the docks, she thinks maybe this time it'll work out.... it doesn't and her brother pays the price. This book is about bullying, high school, drugs, death, and religion. A lot of issues packed in... and a lot of emotions.
I have to say WOW this book really got to me. I was definitely crying on multiple occasions for different reasons... and I loved it. I love when a book makes me feel something that deeply.
The first half of the book is all about bullying and how lonely and ugly it makes Missy feel. I just loved the way all that was written. It made me feel it like I was in H.S. too. I could totally relate to feeling like if I could just fix something about myself everything would be fine.
The last part of the book was so hard to read. Just really sad and emotional stuff. I totally would've given this a 5 star rating except for 1 thing: I didn't like Josh. He was so standoffish and weird, I just didn't get him. It was obvious he cared about Missy from day one, but he was all about pushing her away without explanation. And I really didn't dig the religious stuff. I felt like Josh was pushing his ideals on Missy and trying to change her to fit with what he wanted her to be. Not cool!
Semi-Spoiler-
My blog:
http://pinkpolkadotbookblog.blogspot.com
Miraculously though things have changed. And Sam King actually likes her now. But the good things happening at school don't change the fact that her home-life is sort of a wreck. She doesn't remember her bio dad and her mom serial dates (mostly loser) guys. Her new next-door-neighbor Josh tries to look out for Missy and offer her some form of escape, but eventually that blows up. When her mom starts dating her brother's boss at the docks, she thinks maybe this time it'll work out.... it doesn't and her brother pays the price. This book is about bullying, high school, drugs, death, and religion. A lot of issues packed in... and a lot of emotions.
I have to say WOW this book really got to me. I was definitely crying on multiple occasions for different reasons... and I loved it. I love when a book makes me feel something that deeply.
The first half of the book is all about bullying and how lonely and ugly it makes Missy feel. I just loved the way all that was written. It made me feel it like I was in H.S. too. I could totally relate to feeling like if I could just fix something about myself everything would be fine.
The last part of the book was so hard to read. Just really sad and emotional stuff. I totally would've given this a 5 star rating except for 1 thing: I didn't like Josh. He was so standoffish and weird, I just didn't get him. It was obvious he cared about Missy from day one, but he was all about pushing her away without explanation. And I really didn't dig the religious stuff. I felt like Josh was pushing his ideals on Missy and trying to change her to fit with what he wanted her to be. Not cool!
Semi-Spoiler-
My blog:
http://pinkpolkadotbookblog.blogspot.com
February 11, 2014
Actual Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars
This book is one of my favorites I've read so far this year! It truly is a coming-of-age type young adult novel that had me turning page after page until there were no pages left to turn and I was rushing to Goodreads to see if there were any other books by Nicole Quigley I could add to my TBR list. I was astonished to find that this was a debut, as I hadn't realized that when I was provided a review copy. I must say, Like Moonlight at Low Tide was a stunning read!
The novel begins with Melissa/Missy moving back to her hometown of Anna Maria Island, FL. She hopes to fly under the radar considering the fact that when she lived there back in middle school, she was the constant subject of torment and bullying. She'd been given the nickname "Messy" and was truly convinced she was the ugliest girl in school. Melissa is such a strong character, despite the fact that she has been through quite a lot in her life. Men are in and out of her life because of her mother's failure to commit to any relationship for fear of being the one burned, so she's never really had a father figure. There's just her, her mom, her older brother, and her younger sister.
I love the way the author explores bullying and eventually suicide in this book in such an open and honest way. I think that's one of the best way to get people talking about these "taboo" subjects, is to read a book like this. My favorite thing about this novel has to be the way it reads. I honestly felt the entire time like I wasn't reading a book. No, it was like Melissa was sitting beside me in some comfy diner and we were drinking sodas and sharing our life stories. So fresh and original, I already started recommending before I even finished the last page! A fabulous read for teens of all ages, I feel these subjects need to stop being taboo and I will forever be recommending this book. I honestly cannot wait to see what Nicole Quigley has in store for us next and am anxiously awaiting her next book release!
*I received this book for review from the publisher via the Booksneeze program. This, however, in no way affected my review or opinion*
This book is one of my favorites I've read so far this year! It truly is a coming-of-age type young adult novel that had me turning page after page until there were no pages left to turn and I was rushing to Goodreads to see if there were any other books by Nicole Quigley I could add to my TBR list. I was astonished to find that this was a debut, as I hadn't realized that when I was provided a review copy. I must say, Like Moonlight at Low Tide was a stunning read!
The novel begins with Melissa/Missy moving back to her hometown of Anna Maria Island, FL. She hopes to fly under the radar considering the fact that when she lived there back in middle school, she was the constant subject of torment and bullying. She'd been given the nickname "Messy" and was truly convinced she was the ugliest girl in school. Melissa is such a strong character, despite the fact that she has been through quite a lot in her life. Men are in and out of her life because of her mother's failure to commit to any relationship for fear of being the one burned, so she's never really had a father figure. There's just her, her mom, her older brother, and her younger sister.
I love the way the author explores bullying and eventually suicide in this book in such an open and honest way. I think that's one of the best way to get people talking about these "taboo" subjects, is to read a book like this. My favorite thing about this novel has to be the way it reads. I honestly felt the entire time like I wasn't reading a book. No, it was like Melissa was sitting beside me in some comfy diner and we were drinking sodas and sharing our life stories. So fresh and original, I already started recommending before I even finished the last page! A fabulous read for teens of all ages, I feel these subjects need to stop being taboo and I will forever be recommending this book. I honestly cannot wait to see what Nicole Quigley has in store for us next and am anxiously awaiting her next book release!
*I received this book for review from the publisher via the Booksneeze program. This, however, in no way affected my review or opinion*
February 13, 2014
Do you ever read a book that you really just don't want to review? I'm there right now, unfortunately.
I'm a mommy to 3 little ones. I spend more days in survival mode than anything else, and this simply wasn't the best pick for me right now. I'll let you know right now that my review is NOT the best one to look at as you're deciding to read this book. I'm finding the older I get, the less I can tolerate YA books. Don't get me wrong! I DO still enjoy them, but as I tried recently to re-read one I'd loved a couple of years ago, I couldn't finish it.
Last year, I read(and LOVED) Glass Girl by Kurk. This one sounded similar(though it wasn't) and it had lots of 5 star ratings. I decided to take a chance on it. The main character, Missy(nicknamed Messy), was bullied a few years ago before her family moved away from the torture. When her family moves back, things start changing. Missy is now "hot". When her former crush starts showing her attention, things are looking up in her world. But, there's the Christian neighbor that has grabbed her affections, too.
The main theme of Like Moonlight at Low Tide seems to be suicide and bullying. I appreciate those themes!!!! I think as a teenager, I would have enjoyed this book more. But, there is so much drinking and partying and kissing! It just bugs me like crazy to see a girl hang on so tightly to a guy that treats her like crap. That's pretty much the whole book! There's very little of the book dedicated to her "coming to her senses". (As a memoir of someone who made bad decisions and came to his/her senses, I'm a fan! I've grown to love memoirs, so no one take offense here!) It tells in the prologue that this isn't a suicide book, but I still feel like so much more could have been written in concerning that part.
Again, I appreciate the effort dedicated to the issues of suicide and bullying, but I can't say this book overly worked for me. Mostly, I didn't connect to most of the characters, and I wanted to shout some sense to them. ;)
*I was provided a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
I'm a mommy to 3 little ones. I spend more days in survival mode than anything else, and this simply wasn't the best pick for me right now. I'll let you know right now that my review is NOT the best one to look at as you're deciding to read this book. I'm finding the older I get, the less I can tolerate YA books. Don't get me wrong! I DO still enjoy them, but as I tried recently to re-read one I'd loved a couple of years ago, I couldn't finish it.
Last year, I read(and LOVED) Glass Girl by Kurk. This one sounded similar(though it wasn't) and it had lots of 5 star ratings. I decided to take a chance on it. The main character, Missy(nicknamed Messy), was bullied a few years ago before her family moved away from the torture. When her family moves back, things start changing. Missy is now "hot". When her former crush starts showing her attention, things are looking up in her world. But, there's the Christian neighbor that has grabbed her affections, too.
The main theme of Like Moonlight at Low Tide seems to be suicide and bullying. I appreciate those themes!!!! I think as a teenager, I would have enjoyed this book more. But, there is so much drinking and partying and kissing! It just bugs me like crazy to see a girl hang on so tightly to a guy that treats her like crap. That's pretty much the whole book! There's very little of the book dedicated to her "coming to her senses". (As a memoir of someone who made bad decisions and came to his/her senses, I'm a fan! I've grown to love memoirs, so no one take offense here!) It tells in the prologue that this isn't a suicide book, but I still feel like so much more could have been written in concerning that part.
Again, I appreciate the effort dedicated to the issues of suicide and bullying, but I can't say this book overly worked for me. Mostly, I didn't connect to most of the characters, and I wanted to shout some sense to them. ;)
*I was provided a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 1, 2015
(I received this book for free as part of Goodreads First Reads giveaways).
(This review may contain spoilers).
This book was one that I found really difficult to read. It was really well-written and the character of Missy was quite an intriguing one. There was a love triangle in the book that I actually didn't hate so much, though I do wish less authors would use them because, like vampires, love triangles are over-used.
It was funny, but I didn't realise I'd won this book until a month after the giveaway had ended. I'm not sure if there were issues with the algorithm or something, but yeah. I'd forgotten I'd even entered to win this.
I liked that this book was written in first person and Missy was a character who was really easy to relate to. This book did deal with a couple of major issues that many people in reality face. Although it was difficult to read in places, I felt that the author handled the issues really well. But it raised a lot of my own personal issues.
I was surprised (in a good way) by Josh's faith. I liked the comments made by his pastor. It was a really interesting concept to read about and made me want to point the passage to my dad for him to use as an illustration in one of his sermons.
When I read the first chapter of this book, I assumed that meant I was going to know how the story ended. It was good that there were still a lot of surprises all the way through, though, and although I knew some of the ending, the three guys weren't all that obvious.
I didn't really like Missy's mother, possibly because there were a lot of aspects that reminded me of my own mother. I thought Crystal was particularly sweet and I liked the descriptions of the life on the island.
I wasn't particularly keen on a lot of the minor characters in this book, especially Sam. But I could empathise with Missy having a crush on someone who was technically untouchable. I would probably read more books by this author in the future. I was drawn into Missy's life easily and I really felt for her through a lot of the book.
(This review may contain spoilers).
This book was one that I found really difficult to read. It was really well-written and the character of Missy was quite an intriguing one. There was a love triangle in the book that I actually didn't hate so much, though I do wish less authors would use them because, like vampires, love triangles are over-used.
It was funny, but I didn't realise I'd won this book until a month after the giveaway had ended. I'm not sure if there were issues with the algorithm or something, but yeah. I'd forgotten I'd even entered to win this.
I liked that this book was written in first person and Missy was a character who was really easy to relate to. This book did deal with a couple of major issues that many people in reality face. Although it was difficult to read in places, I felt that the author handled the issues really well. But it raised a lot of my own personal issues.
I was surprised (in a good way) by Josh's faith. I liked the comments made by his pastor. It was a really interesting concept to read about and made me want to point the passage to my dad for him to use as an illustration in one of his sermons.
When I read the first chapter of this book, I assumed that meant I was going to know how the story ended. It was good that there were still a lot of surprises all the way through, though, and although I knew some of the ending, the three guys weren't all that obvious.
I didn't really like Missy's mother, possibly because there were a lot of aspects that reminded me of my own mother. I thought Crystal was particularly sweet and I liked the descriptions of the life on the island.
I wasn't particularly keen on a lot of the minor characters in this book, especially Sam. But I could empathise with Missy having a crush on someone who was technically untouchable. I would probably read more books by this author in the future. I was drawn into Missy's life easily and I really felt for her through a lot of the book.
November 27, 2012
Goodreads summary:
For Missy Keiser, returning to Anna Maria Island, Florida, means two things: her mother made another poor decision with men, and Missy will have to reenter a world where she’s known as “Messy,” a social pariah who dared to have a crush on Sam King, the most popular boy in school.
But much has changed in the three years she’s been away. Missy’s next-door neighbor is no longer an elderly woman but Josh, an intriguing boy who seems genuinely interested in her. At school, she’s surprised to find few people remember who she once was. And any remaining taunts of Messy are silenced when Sam King gives her his nod of approval.
Just as things seem to be perfect, Josh’s sudden distance, her mother’s latest relationship implosion, and her brother’s strange behavior threaten to ruin it all. Missy is forced to decide between the boy she’s always wanted, a boy who is intent on trying to save her, and the brother she’s known all her life. And her decision could have consequences she can never undo.
My Thoughts:
Let me start by saying I rarely read YA contemporary novels, and never read novels labeled as Christian or spiritual. However, the premise drew me in and I decided to give the book a try. I am so glad I did. I was blown away with how emotional this book was and how I related to Missy, the main character. She was so relatable because I think all of us have been bullied or made fun of at one time in their lives. Her situation tugged at my heartstrings. The writing is so emotion filled and I found myself crying at more than a few events in the book.
For those that don't read spiritual related fiction, it really is a small part of the book but it does figure into the ending. I found it inspiring but some may not.
I think this is a great story for kids who are struggling to find their place is in the world, who feel like no one cares.
Thank you to Netgalley for this amazing book!
For Missy Keiser, returning to Anna Maria Island, Florida, means two things: her mother made another poor decision with men, and Missy will have to reenter a world where she’s known as “Messy,” a social pariah who dared to have a crush on Sam King, the most popular boy in school.
But much has changed in the three years she’s been away. Missy’s next-door neighbor is no longer an elderly woman but Josh, an intriguing boy who seems genuinely interested in her. At school, she’s surprised to find few people remember who she once was. And any remaining taunts of Messy are silenced when Sam King gives her his nod of approval.
Just as things seem to be perfect, Josh’s sudden distance, her mother’s latest relationship implosion, and her brother’s strange behavior threaten to ruin it all. Missy is forced to decide between the boy she’s always wanted, a boy who is intent on trying to save her, and the brother she’s known all her life. And her decision could have consequences she can never undo.
My Thoughts:
Let me start by saying I rarely read YA contemporary novels, and never read novels labeled as Christian or spiritual. However, the premise drew me in and I decided to give the book a try. I am so glad I did. I was blown away with how emotional this book was and how I related to Missy, the main character. She was so relatable because I think all of us have been bullied or made fun of at one time in their lives. Her situation tugged at my heartstrings. The writing is so emotion filled and I found myself crying at more than a few events in the book.
For those that don't read spiritual related fiction, it really is a small part of the book but it does figure into the ending. I found it inspiring but some may not.
I think this is a great story for kids who are struggling to find their place is in the world, who feel like no one cares.
Thank you to Netgalley for this amazing book!
September 25, 2012
Missy Keiser only wants what every teenager wants: to be accepted by her peers. After three years away, she moves back to Anna Maria Island, Florida, hoping the kids won't remember her or that they called her "Messy" all through middle school.
Missy and her big brother Robby, along with their little sister Crystal, try to navigate the waters of life leaning on each other as their mother consistently makes bad choices.
When Sam, the most popular boy in school, starts paying attention to her, Missy's world begins to change. Party invites are extended and whispers behind her back cease. As she and Sam become boyfriend and girlfriend, she's even allowed to sit at the popular table at lunch and no one seems to mind. Except for Josh.
Josh lives next door to Missy. After catching her one night swimming in his pool without permission they strike up a friendship. But Josh is different than other boys. He hangs with Sam and the popular crowd when he wants, floats from table to table at lunch and even goes to church. He's calm, confident and doesn't push Missy to be anything but a friend.
When tragedy strikes, Missy sees who's truly there for her and discovers that the boy she thought could save her simply can't and getting everything she wanted in life isn't enough.
Nicole Quigley weaves together a beautiful tale of love and acceptance amid uncertainty and pain. She draws you into the mind of a teenager where every wink from a boy can stop your heart and the desire to be embraced by your peers consumes your every thought. But Missy finds a love that will not fail her. When the reader picks up this book, they’ll be reading late into the night, unable to put it down.
Missy and her big brother Robby, along with their little sister Crystal, try to navigate the waters of life leaning on each other as their mother consistently makes bad choices.
When Sam, the most popular boy in school, starts paying attention to her, Missy's world begins to change. Party invites are extended and whispers behind her back cease. As she and Sam become boyfriend and girlfriend, she's even allowed to sit at the popular table at lunch and no one seems to mind. Except for Josh.
Josh lives next door to Missy. After catching her one night swimming in his pool without permission they strike up a friendship. But Josh is different than other boys. He hangs with Sam and the popular crowd when he wants, floats from table to table at lunch and even goes to church. He's calm, confident and doesn't push Missy to be anything but a friend.
When tragedy strikes, Missy sees who's truly there for her and discovers that the boy she thought could save her simply can't and getting everything she wanted in life isn't enough.
Nicole Quigley weaves together a beautiful tale of love and acceptance amid uncertainty and pain. She draws you into the mind of a teenager where every wink from a boy can stop your heart and the desire to be embraced by your peers consumes your every thought. But Missy finds a love that will not fail her. When the reader picks up this book, they’ll be reading late into the night, unable to put it down.
September 30, 2012
Also posted on my blog, The Rambling Readerista
I almost gave up reading this book. It was immensely slow at the beginning, most of the time leaving me thinking hating the story because it was such a classic, a girl comes back home after living three years away, having to face people who once considered her "the Ugly Duckling", hated her and made fun of her. Never really accepted her. I can understand how such a thing may seem to a junior in high school, but seriously, you cannot go around thinking only such mundane stuff. The main heroine seemed kind of shallow, scared of her own shadow and caring only what others thought.
Then, about half through the novel, something happens that will change her perspective on thing, and that will make her mentally grow up. And I was all like finally. She became a real person. The author made her appear the reason behind me sticking it out and reading the book only for the great cover (because, really, a bad good cannot have such a great cover right), and for a male character that is such a conjuncture of clashing differences. I guess it made the book work, for the most part. After that momentous event, the book just seemed to read itself from that point till the end.
In the end, I finally enjoyed finding out what is the message behind the story and for that reason mostly would recommend this book. Since it deals with bullying, messed up mothers and missing fathers, drugs, friendship, Christianity (but intrusively, only enlightening), belief and loss of hope, this book is a great read for the moments when you feel your life is falling apart and you need a push in the right direction.
I almost gave up reading this book. It was immensely slow at the beginning, most of the time leaving me thinking hating the story because it was such a classic, a girl comes back home after living three years away, having to face people who once considered her "the Ugly Duckling", hated her and made fun of her. Never really accepted her. I can understand how such a thing may seem to a junior in high school, but seriously, you cannot go around thinking only such mundane stuff. The main heroine seemed kind of shallow, scared of her own shadow and caring only what others thought.
Then, about half through the novel, something happens that will change her perspective on thing, and that will make her mentally grow up. And I was all like finally. She became a real person. The author made her appear the reason behind me sticking it out and reading the book only for the great cover (because, really, a bad good cannot have such a great cover right), and for a male character that is such a conjuncture of clashing differences. I guess it made the book work, for the most part. After that momentous event, the book just seemed to read itself from that point till the end.
In the end, I finally enjoyed finding out what is the message behind the story and for that reason mostly would recommend this book. Since it deals with bullying, messed up mothers and missing fathers, drugs, friendship, Christianity (but intrusively, only enlightening), belief and loss of hope, this book is a great read for the moments when you feel your life is falling apart and you need a push in the right direction.
September 4, 2016
Anna Maria Island, Florida, is where Melissa Keiser spent her childhood years and was a victim of bullying from the ‘cool kids’ who called her Messy and mocked her second-hand clothes. Now she’s back and trying to avoid catching the attention of those kids—except her best friend is dating one of them, and the boy she had a crush on actually seems to have noticed her (in a good way).
Melissa’s had a rough upbringing. Her father abandoned the family before she started school and hasn’t been heard from since. Her mother has paraded through a series of ‘boyfriends’ over the years, her older brother is a dopehead, and her friends do little but party. Her escape is to swim in the neighbour’s pool at night—until she gets caught. This forms the start of an unlikely friendship.
As I was reading, I was trying to decide whether or not Like Moonlight at Low Tide was actually Christian fiction. Missy wasn’t a Christian, her mother certainly wasn’t, and it didn’t seem that any of her friends were either. It wasn’t until quite late in the book that the Christian element started to come through, but it was worth waiting for.
“When I was seventeen, the only boy who ever called me by my full name took his own life. It was the first time I ever saw a mistake that couldn’t be undone.”
Yes, this novel is different. It’s written in the first person, and Missy is a complex character growing up in a difficult environment. It’s gritty and real, yet with a bittersweet aftertaste, as though things shouldn’t be like this.
Like Moonlight at Low Tide is the debut novel from Nicole Quigley, and shows she is a voice to watch in Christian fiction for her edgy realism. Recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free ebook for review.
Melissa’s had a rough upbringing. Her father abandoned the family before she started school and hasn’t been heard from since. Her mother has paraded through a series of ‘boyfriends’ over the years, her older brother is a dopehead, and her friends do little but party. Her escape is to swim in the neighbour’s pool at night—until she gets caught. This forms the start of an unlikely friendship.
As I was reading, I was trying to decide whether or not Like Moonlight at Low Tide was actually Christian fiction. Missy wasn’t a Christian, her mother certainly wasn’t, and it didn’t seem that any of her friends were either. It wasn’t until quite late in the book that the Christian element started to come through, but it was worth waiting for.
“When I was seventeen, the only boy who ever called me by my full name took his own life. It was the first time I ever saw a mistake that couldn’t be undone.”
Yes, this novel is different. It’s written in the first person, and Missy is a complex character growing up in a difficult environment. It’s gritty and real, yet with a bittersweet aftertaste, as though things shouldn’t be like this.
Like Moonlight at Low Tide is the debut novel from Nicole Quigley, and shows she is a voice to watch in Christian fiction for her edgy realism. Recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free ebook for review.
January 26, 2014
Also posted at: http://ethpages.blogspot.com/2014/01/...
I didn’t like this book, but I didn’t hate it either. I felt it was shallow, not as in the subject matter or the writing, but the lack of depth at which the subjects were explored. This book touched on a lot of issues- suicide, belonging, believing, partying, self-esteem, drugs, etc- and it never really focused on one thing. This was all fine, but it kind of just went from here to there and merely grazed upon some subjects, while going a little bit deeper into others.
This book had a lot of potential, not only because of the subject matters, but also because it related to life today, especially for teens. Many teens drink and do drugs because, much like the characters in this book, they have this emptiness inside they want to fill. I liked how the author addressed these issues in a Christian context, but I really wished she’d gone deeper into all of them.
I really liked how this book ended with something beginning. It wasn't a perfect ending, in more ways than one, but it was a realistic ending. It was a hopeful ending. And to be honest, it wasn't really the end at all. It was just the beginning of something wonderful.
This book was not preachy at all. In fact, the Christian parts were scattered throughout the book, and it wasn't really addressed until the middle. I absolutely loved the emphasis on the love of God and how He is the perfect Father.
Final thoughts? Much of the heavy content was just touched on, but the ending was worth it.
*Thank you to Zondervan for providing me with a review copy of this book! All thoughts above are my own.*
I didn’t like this book, but I didn’t hate it either. I felt it was shallow, not as in the subject matter or the writing, but the lack of depth at which the subjects were explored. This book touched on a lot of issues- suicide, belonging, believing, partying, self-esteem, drugs, etc- and it never really focused on one thing. This was all fine, but it kind of just went from here to there and merely grazed upon some subjects, while going a little bit deeper into others.
This book had a lot of potential, not only because of the subject matters, but also because it related to life today, especially for teens. Many teens drink and do drugs because, much like the characters in this book, they have this emptiness inside they want to fill. I liked how the author addressed these issues in a Christian context, but I really wished she’d gone deeper into all of them.
I really liked how this book ended with something beginning. It wasn't a perfect ending, in more ways than one, but it was a realistic ending. It was a hopeful ending. And to be honest, it wasn't really the end at all. It was just the beginning of something wonderful.
This book was not preachy at all. In fact, the Christian parts were scattered throughout the book, and it wasn't really addressed until the middle. I absolutely loved the emphasis on the love of God and how He is the perfect Father.
Final thoughts? Much of the heavy content was just touched on, but the ending was worth it.
*Thank you to Zondervan for providing me with a review copy of this book! All thoughts above are my own.*
March 27, 2014
Like Moonlight at Low Tide By Nicole Quigley was published September 23rd 2012. Its 247 pages.
Returns to her hometown of Anna Maria Island, Florida, Melissa Keiser knows that its wont be easy. She has mixed feelings on being back home. Part of her is happy, she has her old best friend, who's happens to be now dating one of the islands cutest guys. But so of she's happy to be back on the island. Living the island lifestyles. But Melissa is not looking forward to her old classmate, the old name calling, the way her life was. But she still can to seem to get passed or over the loved one she lost to suicide.
The characters are more then just people Nicole thought of. They all have more to them, they have layers, just like most people. I love the fact that she's relatabled but then the next she's not relatable one bit. Melissa would have to been one of my favorite characters in this story, not because she's a lead. But because of what she goes through. I enjoyed the way that the island has its own 'style'; this little bit od detail make the story better in its own way. Melissa also has problems with her family. I think that's a part that may will be able to relate to even if there family problems are different. There are may other characters I would love to talk about but I don't want to give to much away. But I do want to say that Nicole's writing style, to me, has a classic feel to it. Her style reminds me of books I use to read. I'm a hung si-fi, fantasy, kinds of story but I also love a good teen fiction book any day. This was a short story, so I took my time and read it slowly, but I could be more happier that I took time to read the amazing story.
Returns to her hometown of Anna Maria Island, Florida, Melissa Keiser knows that its wont be easy. She has mixed feelings on being back home. Part of her is happy, she has her old best friend, who's happens to be now dating one of the islands cutest guys. But so of she's happy to be back on the island. Living the island lifestyles. But Melissa is not looking forward to her old classmate, the old name calling, the way her life was. But she still can to seem to get passed or over the loved one she lost to suicide.
The characters are more then just people Nicole thought of. They all have more to them, they have layers, just like most people. I love the fact that she's relatabled but then the next she's not relatable one bit. Melissa would have to been one of my favorite characters in this story, not because she's a lead. But because of what she goes through. I enjoyed the way that the island has its own 'style'; this little bit od detail make the story better in its own way. Melissa also has problems with her family. I think that's a part that may will be able to relate to even if there family problems are different. There are may other characters I would love to talk about but I don't want to give to much away. But I do want to say that Nicole's writing style, to me, has a classic feel to it. Her style reminds me of books I use to read. I'm a hung si-fi, fantasy, kinds of story but I also love a good teen fiction book any day. This was a short story, so I took my time and read it slowly, but I could be more happier that I took time to read the amazing story.
August 14, 2016
I liked this book. I loved almost all of the characters and the relationships. But there was one big thing that I didn't like that I can't quite get over. I did not like the religion aspect of this book. I am pro-religion and I think that everyone has the right to think and believe whatever they want. My problem comes when people try to push their religion onto others. Because I also believe that religion is a private experience and more than that it's a private decision. Missy is obviously not a religious person and it's clear that she does not want to change that. She's uncomfortable talking about religion and she doesn't even really want to think about it. But that doesn't stop Josh from trying to push his religion onto her. There are times when he only brings it up because Missy is asking him a question and he's just trying to answer it honestly but then there are other times when it just really seems like he's not going to be happy until Missy believes what he does. And the fact that Missy experiences that conversion so easily and that it's the only way her story can have a happy ending feels a little bit like the author is pushing her religion onto her readers. So I really didn't like that whole part of the story. But I loved Missy's relationship with Sam and her relationship with Josh. I loved Missy and Sam and Josh and Crystal and Robby. I didn't really like her mom, but I don't think we were really supposed to. I do kind of wish that her mom's story could have had a happier ending or any kind of closure at all. I think that if Josh wasn't so pushy with his religion then this book could have ended up as a five star book for me.
November 7, 2012
This review was originally posted on my book blog: Written By Brittan
Like Moonlight At Low Tide is heart breaking and breathe taking. The story line is gripping, and it pulls you into the story. The characters were so realistic. Nicole Quigley did an incredible job writing this book.
This book is very hypnotic. I could not put it down. The storyline is really enjoyable, but meaningful at the same time. Even though this book has it's sad part that you you cry. it has those parts that make you smile or laugh. It is realistic fiction at it's best. This book felt like real life not a book.
Melissa was such an easy character to connect to. She and the other character were so enjoyable to read about. The meaningfulness in each and almost all of the characters made this book even more mind-blowing. Each and everyone of the characters in this book felt like they were real.
Nicole Quigley blow me away with her debut novel. I hope to be able to read more books by her in the future. She put me into this realistic world, where it was like I was Melissa. While I was reading I was living Melissa's crazy life not, it did not feel like I was reading. This is a realistic fiction that you don't want to miss.
I loved this book! It was realistic. The writing was great. Nicole Quigley took my breathe away with this novel. I recommend this to people who like YA realistic fiction or Ya contemporary books.
Like Moonlight At Low Tide is heart breaking and breathe taking. The story line is gripping, and it pulls you into the story. The characters were so realistic. Nicole Quigley did an incredible job writing this book.
This book is very hypnotic. I could not put it down. The storyline is really enjoyable, but meaningful at the same time. Even though this book has it's sad part that you you cry. it has those parts that make you smile or laugh. It is realistic fiction at it's best. This book felt like real life not a book.
Melissa was such an easy character to connect to. She and the other character were so enjoyable to read about. The meaningfulness in each and almost all of the characters made this book even more mind-blowing. Each and everyone of the characters in this book felt like they were real.
Nicole Quigley blow me away with her debut novel. I hope to be able to read more books by her in the future. She put me into this realistic world, where it was like I was Melissa. While I was reading I was living Melissa's crazy life not, it did not feel like I was reading. This is a realistic fiction that you don't want to miss.
I loved this book! It was realistic. The writing was great. Nicole Quigley took my breathe away with this novel. I recommend this to people who like YA realistic fiction or Ya contemporary books.
September 13, 2012
This book is a wonderful read that tapped into my imagination. I could see events play out in my mind's eye. I could feel everything the main character, Melissa, was going through. This book begged for my attention in such a way, that I couldn't put it down!
Ms. Quigley's characters were realistic, relatable, and well rounded. I enjoyed watching Missy and Josh's friendship grow and develop. There were also some moments I could relate with Missy, which made me appreciate the book more.
Another reason I'm so attached to this book is because it's set in Florida, which is where I grew up. Though, I didn't grow up on Anna Maria Island I did grow up near Tampa Bay. I moved away recently from my hometown, and this book gave me a happy at-home feeling that I've missed.
I'd like to note that to make this realistic, Ms. Quigley discussed some teens drinking, including the main character. There was also talk of drugs and overdosing. Nothing is explicit, but some things are implied. I don't disagree with Ms. Quigley's decision to include these things in her novel, because without them the story would seem too fake.
Right now, this book stands as one of my favorites. I highly recommend it to any teen girl.
I received this book from DJC Communications in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done.
Ms. Quigley's characters were realistic, relatable, and well rounded. I enjoyed watching Missy and Josh's friendship grow and develop. There were also some moments I could relate with Missy, which made me appreciate the book more.
Another reason I'm so attached to this book is because it's set in Florida, which is where I grew up. Though, I didn't grow up on Anna Maria Island I did grow up near Tampa Bay. I moved away recently from my hometown, and this book gave me a happy at-home feeling that I've missed.
I'd like to note that to make this realistic, Ms. Quigley discussed some teens drinking, including the main character. There was also talk of drugs and overdosing. Nothing is explicit, but some things are implied. I don't disagree with Ms. Quigley's decision to include these things in her novel, because without them the story would seem too fake.
Right now, this book stands as one of my favorites. I highly recommend it to any teen girl.
I received this book from DJC Communications in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done.
April 18, 2013
Due to some content, I would recommend this book for young people age 12 and over. It would probably be more enjoyed by girls than boys.
The story unfolds as told through the eyes of a bullied teen forced to face harsh reality when tragedy strikes. I was hooked on page one, where the author foreshadows the future, then familiarizes the reader with “Messy” Missy Keiser, an insecure teen who returns to her school in Florida after three years away, anticipating encounters with the same cruel classmates who inflicted hurtful emotional wounds.
Things have changed, though, and Missy finds herself accepted by peers and even enters into a relationship with the boy of her dreams. The blossoming teen also forms a shaky alliance with the boy next door, who forces her to search within herself for a deeper understanding of what is really important.
Characterization is one of the strong points of this book. The author probes the mind and heart of many of today’s teens as she paints a picture of a broken home, an inadequate mom, and an economically struggling family.
The plot builds to a conclusion that is not easily envisioned, yet brings the reader to a satisfactory end. Each scene serves to move Missy Keiser along on her journey to maturity as she discovers the meaning of life, relationships, and love.
The story unfolds as told through the eyes of a bullied teen forced to face harsh reality when tragedy strikes. I was hooked on page one, where the author foreshadows the future, then familiarizes the reader with “Messy” Missy Keiser, an insecure teen who returns to her school in Florida after three years away, anticipating encounters with the same cruel classmates who inflicted hurtful emotional wounds.
Things have changed, though, and Missy finds herself accepted by peers and even enters into a relationship with the boy of her dreams. The blossoming teen also forms a shaky alliance with the boy next door, who forces her to search within herself for a deeper understanding of what is really important.
Characterization is one of the strong points of this book. The author probes the mind and heart of many of today’s teens as she paints a picture of a broken home, an inadequate mom, and an economically struggling family.
The plot builds to a conclusion that is not easily envisioned, yet brings the reader to a satisfactory end. Each scene serves to move Missy Keiser along on her journey to maturity as she discovers the meaning of life, relationships, and love.
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