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Grab Your Pole #3
Shark Out of Water
With the Amazon Bestseller Shark Bait, the first novel in the Grab Your Pole series, debut author Jenn Cooksey delivered a fun, snarky, and realistic beginning to a larger story that has found its way into the hearts of readers everywhere. Thus, many were unprepared for what was coming in the second installment of the GYP series, The Other Fish in the Sea, when Cooksey took us on a runaway roller coaster ride of emotion and solidly landed hit after hit, including a brutal sucker punch that left readers around the globe reeling.
In Shark Out of Water, the highly anticipated third installment in this humorous yet honest and real coming of age story, we delve even further into the lives of the GYP gang and many questions are sure to be answered, however, are you really ready for what lies ahead in the continuation of their adventure? Well, grab your pole and let’s find out.
In Shark Out of Water, the highly anticipated third installment in this humorous yet honest and real coming of age story, we delve even further into the lives of the GYP gang and many questions are sure to be answered, however, are you really ready for what lies ahead in the continuation of their adventure? Well, grab your pole and let’s find out.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2013
12 people are currently reading
670 people want to read
About the author
Jenn Cooksey
5 books468 followersJenn Cooksey is a Southern California girl born and bred, however she's no longer a resident of heaven on earth, but instead she currently resides in the 7th Ring of Hell with her husband, their three daughters, and a goodly number of pets. Aside from her husband, one cat, and three out of five fish, everyone living under the Cooksey's roof is female. She's sure her husband will not only be awarded sainthood when he kicks the bucket, but that Jesus will welcome him into heaven with a beer and a congratulatory high-five. Jenn is also of the belief that Bacon should be capitalized and that just being yourself is the best way to go. That is, unless you can be Batman. Always be Batman.
You can learn more about Jenn and her books at the following locations:
Blog | http://jenncooksey.blogspot.com/
Twitter | https://twitter.com/Jenn_Cooksey
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jenn-C...
Amazon | http://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Cooksey/e/...
Instagram | http://instagram.com/8675309_jenny
Pinterest | http://pinterest.com/jenncooksey/
Grab Your Pole Street Team Blog | http://grabyourpolestreetteam.blogspo...
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You can learn more about Jenn and her books at the following locations:
Blog | http://jenncooksey.blogspot.com/
Twitter | https://twitter.com/Jenn_Cooksey
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jenn-C...
Amazon | http://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Cooksey/e/...
Instagram | http://instagram.com/8675309_jenny
Pinterest | http://pinterest.com/jenncooksey/
Grab Your Pole Street Team Blog | http://grabyourpolestreetteam.blogspo...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
April 15, 2013
Duh. I wrote it, but even that being the case, this is probably my all-time favorite book in the Grab Your Pole series. Maybe even out of all the books in the world. Yeah, it might be narcissistic of me, but I heart it THAT hard.
August 2, 2013
4-4.5 Stars!
This series is a serious guilty pleasure of mine. After reading GYP #2 I was shocked. Stunned. Cliffhangers are not my friend. Luckily, we didn’t have to wait too long to find out what went down. All your questions are answered. I can’t really go into too much detail in this review without spoiling a bunch of the story line, so this will be the most random of reviews... just saying.
#1 BEST thing about ‘Shark Out of Water’... It was told 100% from the male p.o.v. Yep- we get inside Tristan, Jeff, Pete, and Brandon’s head. Although I missed being in Jillian’s head a bit, I loved the guy’s p.o.v. Tristan was a hot mess through a good part of the book. Brandon is hilarious and sexy, I fell a little bit in love withe Pete, and Jeff, well, he’s just Jeff ;)
Also... I know this is kind of crazy and over the top, and I am not even a cat person AT ALL- but I freaking love these cats and Tristan and Cammie’s deal with them. And the way Tristan, Cammie, Jeff, Jillian, all of the characters really, talk about them... It just cracks my shit up. :D
I present to you Phineas and Ferb, Ferb is the crazy one jumping...
Okay, okay... enough about the cats. Thats just one of the random, quirky and funny things in this series!
Another plus is that there is NO CLIFFHANGER in this installment! Hallelujah! I really am hoping in the next book, we have more of a focus on Jillian and Pete. I want to see where their story goes.
Jenn Cooksley has such a unique voice. I haven’t read another ya series quite like this one... If you are looking for fun, different, angsty, hilarious ya read- this series is for you! It’s really one of a kind!
This series is a serious guilty pleasure of mine. After reading GYP #2 I was shocked. Stunned. Cliffhangers are not my friend. Luckily, we didn’t have to wait too long to find out what went down. All your questions are answered. I can’t really go into too much detail in this review without spoiling a bunch of the story line, so this will be the most random of reviews... just saying.
#1 BEST thing about ‘Shark Out of Water’... It was told 100% from the male p.o.v. Yep- we get inside Tristan, Jeff, Pete, and Brandon’s head. Although I missed being in Jillian’s head a bit, I loved the guy’s p.o.v. Tristan was a hot mess through a good part of the book. Brandon is hilarious and sexy, I fell a little bit in love withe Pete, and Jeff, well, he’s just Jeff ;)
Also... I know this is kind of crazy and over the top, and I am not even a cat person AT ALL- but I freaking love these cats and Tristan and Cammie’s deal with them. And the way Tristan, Cammie, Jeff, Jillian, all of the characters really, talk about them... It just cracks my shit up. :D
I present to you Phineas and Ferb, Ferb is the crazy one jumping...
“Shared custody of cats?”
“I know, it’s not normal, but they really aren’t normal either. Besides, it works for us and makes them happy. Also, they’re just like kids and throw all kinds of kitty tantrums when they’re unhappy.”
“Go to McDonald’s this week and pick up a happy meal.. the girls love the new toy. And just so you know, Phineas likes mustard on her cheeseburger, Ferb prefers chicken nuggets, they both take ranch with their fries, and contraty to what you might think, they both prefer strawberry shakes over chocolate or vanilla... oh, here, you know the drill.”
“Hey Cap, aren’t those your cats?”
“Yep. They’re showing their school spirit and supporting Daddy.”
“There’s something very wrong with this and what you just said, but what has me worried is that I can’t figure out exactly what it is.”
“What’s wrong with it? Obviously they’re showing their school pride, I mean they’re wearing blue and gold bells on their harnesses, and they’re totally supporting their dad. Look, the little one is waving...”
Okay, okay... enough about the cats. Thats just one of the random, quirky and funny things in this series!
Another plus is that there is NO CLIFFHANGER in this installment! Hallelujah! I really am hoping in the next book, we have more of a focus on Jillian and Pete. I want to see where their story goes.
Jenn Cooksley has such a unique voice. I haven’t read another ya series quite like this one... If you are looking for fun, different, angsty, hilarious ya read- this series is for you! It’s really one of a kind!
April 18, 2015
After the jaw-dropping, anger-inducing and shocking ending of The Other Fish in the Sea, I was hankering to get my hands on Shark Out of Water. Seriously, I was willing to do just about anything. I was not above begging Jenn, Autumn, Andrea, and anyone else who had already read the book to get me out of my misery. Thankfully, we only had to wait a few months, albeit a LONG 3 months to find out what the hell happened. It will all be worth. What can you expect in this installment? Well, some of your questions will be answers, you'll have new questions by the end, and you can expect a lot of tension between several characters.
Told in several characters' points-of-view, you get to know certain members (I won't say who) of the Grab Your Pole gang a lot better in Shark Out of Water, especially Tristan. After the end of The Other Fish in the Sea, I wanted to slap Tristan Daniels around. But after finishing this installment, I understand him and his motives a LOT better. Tristan is a complex guy. Before he does anything, he thinks things through almost to the point of over-thinking it. I admire that about him though. As a teenager, he wants to make the best choice possible for him and everyone involved.
Like book two, Shark Out of Water brought a hefty crapload dose of the feels. Oh, man THE FEELS. These characters bled their feelings out on the page in a beautifully raw display of emotion. I was incredibly touched by the way they opened up to one another and bared their deepest darkest secrets.
My favorite GYP gang member will always and forever be MY Pete. And you get a lot of Pete in this one. At one point, I freaked the freak out. I lost it. I was so elated that I wanted to run around my apartment and SQUEEEEE, which I technically could have done if I wanted. However, I don't think my neighbors would appreciate it, but I digress. Taking a few cues from Jillian, the equally perceptive and observant Pete amps up his detective work in this installment. He and Tristan's weird synced up mind-reading mojo was also really entertaining to watch...for several reasons.
Once again, I am blown away by Jenn Cooksey's brilliant writing style and storytelling artistry. She has a way of making the reader connect with her characters and feel all the emotions that they're going through. When they hurt, I hurt and when they're happy I'm over the moon. There is something special about the the Grab Your Pole gang. You don't see this in every ensemble cast-type book.
In the beginning of the series, the focus was on Camie and Tristan's relationship. Along the way, however, you get to know the rest of the GYP gang. With books 2 and 3, there is a shift in the focus. No longer is Camie and Tristan the only focus. They now share the spotlight with a whole slew of other characters. What sets the Grab Your Pole series apart from other series is that the reader gets to know so many characters on a very intimate level. I have become invested in the characters' lives and choices - Jeff and Katy's relationship and desire to build a family, Melissa and Brandon's new relationship, Pete's mysterious relationship, Camie and Jilly's mom's health, and Jillian's uncanny ability to cover up her feelings.
Get started on the Grab your Pole series now! See what all the fuss is about. You won't be disappointed. In fact, you'll be laughing your ass off.
4 stars
Favorite Quotes
“I’d still do it in a heartbeat if it meant getting to hold the life we’d created together.”
“Jillian carries herself with something like poetic grace; however, for those of us who have any sense of self-preservation, well, we recognize that poem to be taken from Bradbury’s story from Something Wicked This Way Comes.”
“I really like her hair.”
_________________________
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July 31, 2013
If you are already a fan of the Grab Your Pole series, you, like so many of us, have been secretly plotting ways to torture Jenn Cooksey for that cruel, yet epic cliff hanger she delivered to us at the end of The Other Fish in the Sea. I am happy to say, you can stop your evil genius planning now because Shark Out of Water is finally here.
I can't, however, say that all the hair you grew back (after pulling it out last round) will still be there by the time you are done with this read. Why? Because, in true Cooksey style, we have been given yet another roller coaster ride of emotions.
"And then I left her there, bleeding out, and walked away from the only girl who's ever held a good portion of my heart, and, sadly, probably always will..."
Tristan is in agony. He is full of regret, full of anger and on a steep downward spiral
Camie is miserable. She is full of questions, full of longing and desperately trying to piece back together her heart.
But this isn't Camie's story. Not really. Shark Out of Water is told in the perspectives of all the wonderful boys of the Grab Your Pole series. We get plenty of Tristan's jumbled thoughts as he filters through his emotions and tries to find a way to mend his own broken life. We get plenty of Jeff as he tries to cope with the anger he feels towards someone he's considered a brother. Pete shows us that he may be the only of these boys that can keep a level head in the face of life's chaos. And, most entertaining of all...Brandon. Cooksey gives us so much of Brandon's signature bad boy crass wittiness.
"Jesus Christ, I fuckin' love this shit. In fact, is that...? Could it be? Wood? Yep, sure as shit, I've got fight wood. But no...I'm stayin' Swiss. So does that make it Swiss Wood?"
Also, in true Jenn Cooksey style, this book is filled with unparalleled humor and passion. Seeing life through the eyes of these boys as they navigates life's murky waters was more wonderful than I can express. Cooksey has created an all star cast of characters with this series and I am so fully invested in their lives.
There were many questions answered, some issues resolved and one doozy of a plot twist that came out of nowhere and had my heart all twitterpated (yeah, that is a damn word) with the absolute tenderness of it. I am forever a fan of the Grab Your Pole series and the unique voice Jenn Cooksey has.
I can't, however, say that all the hair you grew back (after pulling it out last round) will still be there by the time you are done with this read. Why? Because, in true Cooksey style, we have been given yet another roller coaster ride of emotions.
"And then I left her there, bleeding out, and walked away from the only girl who's ever held a good portion of my heart, and, sadly, probably always will..."
Tristan is in agony. He is full of regret, full of anger and on a steep downward spiral
Camie is miserable. She is full of questions, full of longing and desperately trying to piece back together her heart.
But this isn't Camie's story. Not really. Shark Out of Water is told in the perspectives of all the wonderful boys of the Grab Your Pole series. We get plenty of Tristan's jumbled thoughts as he filters through his emotions and tries to find a way to mend his own broken life. We get plenty of Jeff as he tries to cope with the anger he feels towards someone he's considered a brother. Pete shows us that he may be the only of these boys that can keep a level head in the face of life's chaos. And, most entertaining of all...Brandon. Cooksey gives us so much of Brandon's signature bad boy crass wittiness.
"Jesus Christ, I fuckin' love this shit. In fact, is that...? Could it be? Wood? Yep, sure as shit, I've got fight wood. But no...I'm stayin' Swiss. So does that make it Swiss Wood?"
Also, in true Jenn Cooksey style, this book is filled with unparalleled humor and passion. Seeing life through the eyes of these boys as they navigates life's murky waters was more wonderful than I can express. Cooksey has created an all star cast of characters with this series and I am so fully invested in their lives.
There were many questions answered, some issues resolved and one doozy of a plot twist that came out of nowhere and had my heart all twitterpated (yeah, that is a damn word) with the absolute tenderness of it. I am forever a fan of the Grab Your Pole series and the unique voice Jenn Cooksey has.
January 1, 2015
I gave this book 3 stars ~sigh~ I kept thinking I was going to give it 2 until the end, though, so this is improvement, right?
Can someone answer me how can I give the first and the second book of a series 5 stars and then give the third one 3 *almost 2* stars? Well, I am surprised myself.
(Here is a disappointed gif that my internet doesn't let me post)
Here is the thing: I hated Camie in this one. She annoyed the hell out of me. Her actions, mostly. I am going to give an example. If you heard that a guy probably (60% chance) killed someone, would you go out in a date with him? Hell no. But that does Camie do? Exactly. That's not exactly what happened, it isn't a spoiler, but you get the idea.
Second, Tristan, I love you, you're a romantic bastard, but you cried a lot and this book could have been half of what it was. Nothing really happened until the very very end, and I hated it. Third, Melissa, what the fuck? you don't break up with Brandon because of... that
So, what did I like? Brandon, I loved you telling parts of the story. You are super funny and adorable. Date me and not Melissa, would you? Jeff, you did piss me off at the beginning, but then you bought my love back. And your thoughts are pretty funny. You care a great deal about your friends and Kate, and I loved that.
That all being said, I'm just going to ignore this book ever existed. If I weren't in such a good mood, I would have given it 2,5 stars. But, being as it is, these are my final thoughts. Camie, for the love of God, don't be so stupid in the next book. I beg you.
Can someone answer me how can I give the first and the second book of a series 5 stars and then give the third one 3 *almost 2* stars? Well, I am surprised myself.
(Here is a disappointed gif that my internet doesn't let me post)
Here is the thing: I hated Camie in this one. She annoyed the hell out of me. Her actions, mostly. I am going to give an example. If you heard that a guy probably (60% chance) killed someone, would you go out in a date with him? Hell no. But that does Camie do? Exactly. That's not exactly what happened, it isn't a spoiler, but you get the idea.
Second, Tristan, I love you, you're a romantic bastard, but you cried a lot and this book could have been half of what it was. Nothing really happened until the very very end, and I hated it. Third, Melissa, what the fuck? you don't break up with Brandon because of... that
So, what did I like? Brandon, I loved you telling parts of the story. You are super funny and adorable. Date me and not Melissa, would you? Jeff, you did piss me off at the beginning, but then you bought my love back. And your thoughts are pretty funny. You care a great deal about your friends and Kate, and I loved that.
That all being said, I'm just going to ignore this book ever existed. If I weren't in such a good mood, I would have given it 2,5 stars. But, being as it is, these are my final thoughts. Camie, for the love of God, don't be so stupid in the next book. I beg you.
June 3, 2013
Favorite book of the series SO FAR!
June 7, 2013
I think its officially summer. Time to let me read this AMAZING book NOW! PRETTY PLEASE! :-)
July 31, 2013
I’ve put bits and pieces of the book that I thought were hysterical, so I apologize for the choppy review.
Tristan: What the hell is THIS?!
Tristan’s Mom: It appears to be a wrapper belonging to a portion of the new bedding I bought you.
Tristan: Clearly. Specifically, it’s the wrapper to a new pillow. Did the old one do or say something to offend you because I can’t imagine any other circumstance where you’d deem it necessary to kick it and the rest of its happy pillow family out of the house without discussing it with me first.
Tristan’s Dad: Am I sensing some unappreciative sarcasm?
Tristan: You’re damned right! Where the hell is the old stuff?
Tristan’s Mom: I would also say snippy.
Tristan: I’m snippy because I’m tired and I’m tired because the pillow I can’t sleep without was kidnapped yesterday. It doesn’t help that the new ones smell like they belong in a sterile environment suitable for surgery. So WHERE is MY pillow??!
I love Tristan’s reaction to the pillow gone missing, it’s so DAMN CUTE!
Jeff on the Lady Amalthea aka the Unicorn, killed me!!! The image of a hunky dude on a horse that thinks she’s a unicorn is HILARIOUS! But everything that came after that was a definite tear jerker.
Nyquil infused Turkey is hysterical!
The conversation between Tristan and his mother after the intensely emotional talk was just so touching and him discovering the picture of himself and Camie as babies just instantly made me cry, that was just honestly the cherry on top.
I understand why Jenn called it “Shark out of Water” after reading Tristan’s letter to Camie, it was so touching, romantic, and there was so much love in it that I could almost feel it myself.
I have to say out of all the GYP books, this one is my favourite thus far I don’t know if it’s because it is coming from the perspective of the boys’ but I think it largely has to do with how many of these situations we can all relate to. And quite honestly, it just felt real, uncensored, and raw, which I absolutely LOVED! I felt as if the characters were talking to me (well they were telling the story) but you get my point. Jenn has definitely produced a masterpiece here, which I hope more and more people come to recognize and enjoy.
I am very sad that I finished reading this book so soon because now I have to wait for the next!
Tristan: What the hell is THIS?!
Tristan’s Mom: It appears to be a wrapper belonging to a portion of the new bedding I bought you.
Tristan: Clearly. Specifically, it’s the wrapper to a new pillow. Did the old one do or say something to offend you because I can’t imagine any other circumstance where you’d deem it necessary to kick it and the rest of its happy pillow family out of the house without discussing it with me first.
Tristan’s Dad: Am I sensing some unappreciative sarcasm?
Tristan: You’re damned right! Where the hell is the old stuff?
Tristan’s Mom: I would also say snippy.
Tristan: I’m snippy because I’m tired and I’m tired because the pillow I can’t sleep without was kidnapped yesterday. It doesn’t help that the new ones smell like they belong in a sterile environment suitable for surgery. So WHERE is MY pillow??!
I love Tristan’s reaction to the pillow gone missing, it’s so DAMN CUTE!
Jeff on the Lady Amalthea aka the Unicorn, killed me!!! The image of a hunky dude on a horse that thinks she’s a unicorn is HILARIOUS! But everything that came after that was a definite tear jerker.
Nyquil infused Turkey is hysterical!
The conversation between Tristan and his mother after the intensely emotional talk was just so touching and him discovering the picture of himself and Camie as babies just instantly made me cry, that was just honestly the cherry on top.
I understand why Jenn called it “Shark out of Water” after reading Tristan’s letter to Camie, it was so touching, romantic, and there was so much love in it that I could almost feel it myself.
I have to say out of all the GYP books, this one is my favourite thus far I don’t know if it’s because it is coming from the perspective of the boys’ but I think it largely has to do with how many of these situations we can all relate to. And quite honestly, it just felt real, uncensored, and raw, which I absolutely LOVED! I felt as if the characters were talking to me (well they were telling the story) but you get my point. Jenn has definitely produced a masterpiece here, which I hope more and more people come to recognize and enjoy.
I am very sad that I finished reading this book so soon because now I have to wait for the next!
August 1, 2013
The best in the Grab Your Pole series. It's intense and full of drama but its the real friendships and the love the couples share that make this series and this installment one of my favorites.
Being young is all about making mistakes, forgiving yourself as well as the people you love. It's about forming friendships that will last forever and being there for your friends even when they push you away. Tristan and Jeff's friendship is put to the test in this installment but ultimately they both come out stronger and better than ever.
This installment is the guy's story. All of them. Tristan. Pete. Jeff. And Brandon. It was so refreshing to read a story through the eyes of teenage boys and to get an in-depth look into what they feel and go through when their hearts are broken. It was gut-wrenching to watch Tristan self destruct but the reward was well worth all the angst.
Cooksey's has out done herself this time. It was hilarious and quirky ten times over. It was heartfelt and genuine. It was full of angst and tears. It was full of laughter and hope. It was full of determination and forgiveness. And most importantly it was full of love.
If you haven't read this series you're truly missing out an amazing read. Thank God there was no cliffy in this follow up but there will be a book 4 coming in 2014. And I have to say even after 3 books I know there's still so many more stories to tell.
These groups of friends are fiercely loyal and filled with passion and you can not help but fall in love with each and every one of them. Please do yourself a favor and read this series. I promise, you will not be disappointed!
Being young is all about making mistakes, forgiving yourself as well as the people you love. It's about forming friendships that will last forever and being there for your friends even when they push you away. Tristan and Jeff's friendship is put to the test in this installment but ultimately they both come out stronger and better than ever.
This installment is the guy's story. All of them. Tristan. Pete. Jeff. And Brandon. It was so refreshing to read a story through the eyes of teenage boys and to get an in-depth look into what they feel and go through when their hearts are broken. It was gut-wrenching to watch Tristan self destruct but the reward was well worth all the angst.
Cooksey's has out done herself this time. It was hilarious and quirky ten times over. It was heartfelt and genuine. It was full of angst and tears. It was full of laughter and hope. It was full of determination and forgiveness. And most importantly it was full of love.
If you haven't read this series you're truly missing out an amazing read. Thank God there was no cliffy in this follow up but there will be a book 4 coming in 2014. And I have to say even after 3 books I know there's still so many more stories to tell.
These groups of friends are fiercely loyal and filled with passion and you can not help but fall in love with each and every one of them. Please do yourself a favor and read this series. I promise, you will not be disappointed!
June 10, 2014
Good book from the boys perspective.
I love them all.
Had a little trouble with Mia. Come on, which 16-year old girl is so comfortable and experienced to train a guy to become som kind of sexgod?
For me this was not realistic.
But I still enjoyed the scenes with Mia.
And I really whished Camie could react differently sometimes.
My cast:
Tristan:
Camie:
Kate:
Jeff:
Melissa:
Brandon:
Jill:
Pete:
I love them all.
Had a little trouble with Mia. Come on, which 16-year old girl is so comfortable and experienced to train a guy to become som kind of sexgod?
For me this was not realistic.
But I still enjoyed the scenes with Mia.
And I really whished Camie could react differently sometimes.
My cast:
Tristan:
Camie:
Kate:
Jeff:
Melissa:
Brandon:
Jill:
Pete:
August 7, 2013
This is the review I put on Amazon...you know I could gush for days with my love for Jenn Cooksey and all things Grab Your Pole...I mean, I don't ONLY read smut...seriously, though...this series is perfection.
----
Look, I don't even really have the words to eloquently describe my love for this book...this whole SERIES.
It just keeps getting better and better and I fall more in love with the characters.
Characters that I already know and love, who I would never suspect of sneakily making me fall REALLY in love with them, end up pushing their way to the forefront in the running for my inappropriate affections of teenage book boyfriends (it's a problem, really). As we go along in the series I laugh my face off more and, in this (SOoW), sob buckets of tears during soul crushingly beautiful scenes only to have my sobs interrupted by more hilarity.
Love, love, LOVED Shark Out of Water.
Seriously, if you haven't started this series I'm not sure we can be friends. Also, you may want to re-evaluate your life choices.
----
Look, I don't even really have the words to eloquently describe my love for this book...this whole SERIES.
It just keeps getting better and better and I fall more in love with the characters.
Characters that I already know and love, who I would never suspect of sneakily making me fall REALLY in love with them, end up pushing their way to the forefront in the running for my inappropriate affections of teenage book boyfriends (it's a problem, really). As we go along in the series I laugh my face off more and, in this (SOoW), sob buckets of tears during soul crushingly beautiful scenes only to have my sobs interrupted by more hilarity.
Love, love, LOVED Shark Out of Water.
Seriously, if you haven't started this series I'm not sure we can be friends. Also, you may want to re-evaluate your life choices.
August 1, 2013
THERE. ARE. NO. WORDS!!!!!!! Ok, maybe there are a few. By far my favorite of the series thus far. The genius that is Jenn Cooksey has truly out done herself this time.
Shark Out of Water has everything a great book should: intricate plot, plenty of angst, comedy, and lessons about love.
She picks us up from where she dropped us flat on our faces at the end of The Other Fish in the Sea and plunges us straight into the deep end. And I love her for it.
I tend to be able to see where a story is going but with GYP I can not tell you how many times I have turned the page only to say to myself, "WHAT?!?! How did I get here? How did I not see this coming? How did she DO that!!!!"
I can not recommend this book highly enough and can only warn you to read it with a box of Kleenex, your favorite bottle (yes BOTTLE) of alcohol, and a pair of Depends so you don't wet your pants laughing. ENJOY!
Shark Out of Water has everything a great book should: intricate plot, plenty of angst, comedy, and lessons about love.
She picks us up from where she dropped us flat on our faces at the end of The Other Fish in the Sea and plunges us straight into the deep end. And I love her for it.
I tend to be able to see where a story is going but with GYP I can not tell you how many times I have turned the page only to say to myself, "WHAT?!?! How did I get here? How did I not see this coming? How did she DO that!!!!"
I can not recommend this book highly enough and can only warn you to read it with a box of Kleenex, your favorite bottle (yes BOTTLE) of alcohol, and a pair of Depends so you don't wet your pants laughing. ENJOY!
December 26, 2014
5 angsty YA stars!!1 Loved this series!!
March 3, 2014
This is part three of a complete series review, broken up in order to rate each book.
Lea Says: I rarely buy a book as soon as it comes out and read it that same day, but I had been waiting weeks for this and given the way The Other Fish in the Sea ended, I ended up practically reading it in one sitting! We aren't going to give away too much in this review, though, because it's best you take the journey along with the characters!
We spend Shark Out of Water entirely in the boys' minds. It is one of my absolute favorite male perspective books of all time. Hands down. Tristan and Jeff broke my heart right open, while simultaneously making me believe in unicorns and soul mates. As a matter of fact, I would venture to say that Tristan, Jeff, Pete and Brandon are four of my top guys in any books, and yes, I am aware that they are teenagers. But, they are some of the most sentimental guys, teenage or otherwise, I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
Kathy Says: This whole series just put a smile on my face. It was a joy to read. I was a chain reader - inhaling each book back to back. Then, when I finished I was sad it was over. I was ready to read it again. Just writing this review makes me want to read them all again! If you love humorous, romantic mature young adult novels, be sure to grab up this series and take the plunge!
Lea Says: This book was rough, there was some tears, even in some of the most hilarious of times, but that is what makes it my favorite so far. Jenn Cooksey has an amazing writing style full of wit and charisma, with levels of emotion that bleed out onto the pages, making you feel everything right along with these beloved characters.
The best part is that this series isn't over yet! There is more of these to come and I cannot wait to get my greedy hands on the rest!
Lea Says: I rarely buy a book as soon as it comes out and read it that same day, but I had been waiting weeks for this and given the way The Other Fish in the Sea ended, I ended up practically reading it in one sitting! We aren't going to give away too much in this review, though, because it's best you take the journey along with the characters!
We spend Shark Out of Water entirely in the boys' minds. It is one of my absolute favorite male perspective books of all time. Hands down. Tristan and Jeff broke my heart right open, while simultaneously making me believe in unicorns and soul mates. As a matter of fact, I would venture to say that Tristan, Jeff, Pete and Brandon are four of my top guys in any books, and yes, I am aware that they are teenagers. But, they are some of the most sentimental guys, teenage or otherwise, I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
Kathy Says: This whole series just put a smile on my face. It was a joy to read. I was a chain reader - inhaling each book back to back. Then, when I finished I was sad it was over. I was ready to read it again. Just writing this review makes me want to read them all again! If you love humorous, romantic mature young adult novels, be sure to grab up this series and take the plunge!
Lea Says: This book was rough, there was some tears, even in some of the most hilarious of times, but that is what makes it my favorite so far. Jenn Cooksey has an amazing writing style full of wit and charisma, with levels of emotion that bleed out onto the pages, making you feel everything right along with these beloved characters.
The best part is that this series isn't over yet! There is more of these to come and I cannot wait to get my greedy hands on the rest!
October 16, 2013
The Grab Your Pole series is the end all be all for books set in high school. Jenn Cooksey may have sold her soul for the ability to write such a lovable cast of characters. Between the amazing characters, frequent pop culture references and witty one-liners it was hard to keep up with all the greatness happening on every page.
Shark Out of Water is the third in the series and was honestly the most hard to read. I had grown so attached to each and every character and relationship so it almost hit me too hard. In Shark Out of Water we finally get into the head of Tristan and all the guys of the series. While the laughs weren't as frequent Jenn Cooksey instead filled the pages with emotional layers that left the reader running the gamut of every emotion.
"I think that why we sometimes get jolted with electricity when we touch. It's what brings me back to life after being away from you."
The Grab Your Pole series is the love child of John Hughes, Tara Sivec, and Mean Girls. It is an instant classic that you will be quoting for weeks after reading. Not many books have been able to grab my attention so quickly while simultaneously making me laugh and swoon. Jenn Cooksey is the queen of modern day high school novels!
Shark Out of Water is the third in the series and was honestly the most hard to read. I had grown so attached to each and every character and relationship so it almost hit me too hard. In Shark Out of Water we finally get into the head of Tristan and all the guys of the series. While the laughs weren't as frequent Jenn Cooksey instead filled the pages with emotional layers that left the reader running the gamut of every emotion.
"I think that why we sometimes get jolted with electricity when we touch. It's what brings me back to life after being away from you."
The Grab Your Pole series is the love child of John Hughes, Tara Sivec, and Mean Girls. It is an instant classic that you will be quoting for weeks after reading. Not many books have been able to grab my attention so quickly while simultaneously making me laugh and swoon. Jenn Cooksey is the queen of modern day high school novels!
August 10, 2013
This one was tough to rate. There were parts of it that were definitely 5 stars. There were also parts that were 4. This is one of the rare ones that I really wish there were half stars. I enjoyed it, but I don't know why I thought this would be more centered on a different character than it was. It still had the humor of the first two books, and it dealt with some pretty serious issues at the same time. I just found myself drifting after awhile. I'll definitely be reading more in the series, looking forward to where they all are headed!
May 5, 2014
IT'S THE GUYS POV!!!
Tristan, Pete, Jeff and BRANDON (HUUUUUGGGGEE MASSIVE CRUSH ON HIM! and his pierced penis!)
This book had me lol'ing still but holy hell does it take one hell of a massive serious spin!
Very serious subjects are discussed and thought about and well lived through...
I need MORE..
August 5, 2013
Great book, although I really missed Camie's POV from this book, or even Jillian's. Left with a lot of questions, wondering why the next book won't come out until 2014, not sure I will make it that long/ :(
August 1, 2013
This kickass YA series needs some review love from me, and I plan to give it soon, but for now, I will simply say this: SO. FREAKING. GOOD!
August 2, 2013
Dying a little everyday that I have to wait for this book!!!
October 13, 2013
One star is generous
April 17, 2014
Great series!
April 17, 2016
I'm sorry. I just could NOT for the life of me finish this book. I cannot even begin to list the number of things that bug me.
Actually, I can tell you what bugs me. EVERYTHING!
Actually, I can tell you what bugs me. EVERYTHING!
November 12, 2014
Very solid 4 stars, loved these books!
February 2, 2015
Loved this series, a bit long, but can't wait for the 4th book!
July 8, 2017
I rated the first two books in this series 4 stars. The reason this one only had 3 is because I did not like the way most of the characters acted. I didn't like how Tristian was handling the situation with Camie, I didn't like the way Jeff was treating Tristian, I disliked the way Jillian treated Camie, and I didn't like how Jillian was keeping her romantic relationship a secret. Otherwise the book was good. I liked the resolution and how everything was resolved at the end.
October 18, 2013
Oh My Lord. I had been waiting for this one for what seems like forever! After that cruel, just plain old, cruel ending Jenn left us with, I simply didn't know what to do with myself. I wanted to read Shark Out of Water but I was also scared of what I'd find. Jenn you really need to stop putting my heart through all that emotional turmoil- I just can't take it.
Now that being said, Shark Out of Water, like every other book in the Grab Your Poles series, was phenomenal. P.H.E.N.O.M.E.N.A.L.
Unlike the other books in the series, Shark Out of Water was written from the boys' POV. Its interesting to have insight into the workings of the male mind. And since we all know that guys being the typical guys that they are, they suck at communication, we had A LOT of sucking-at-communicating going on here. Okay, so I can't blame the guys alone; the girls were their partners in crime. I just feel like a lot of the drama could have been solved earlier if they had just talked to each other.
From the moment the book starts off we witness a lot of tension between Jeff and Tristan which was clearly hurting both of them on the inside considering the fact they'd declared themselves to be blood brothers and Tristan faked chicken pox and took a year off school to support a pox-ridden 8 year old Jeff. But don't worry folks, I can guarantee you that they sort it out man-to-man... in a very unmanly way. You'll know what I mean when you get to that part. Let me just tell you it involved an arrogant unicorn- that's all I'll say on that matter (and no, this isn't another example of my randomness- there really was a unicorn.)
We also got to learn a lot about Brandon, who's demeanor seems to have slightly changed since book two- not that I can blame him for it. Now personally speaking, I really enjoyed Brandon's character because not only was he sweet and funny in his own way, but he was also painfully honest and I admire that.
Now if you're someone like me and you were sincerely hoping everyone would just their shiz together soon enough and get to the good part... well you'll be as frustrated as I was. You know how I mentioned poor communication skills? Yeah well, I wasn't kidding. People don't start straightening major things out until 89% through the story (I checked).
But you wanna know the best part about it all -and by best I mean worst-? As if Tristan and Camie's problems weren't enough to torture us and keep us up at nights and glued to our e-readers, Jenn made sure to introduce Scott and Mia to the mix. Remember Scott? The guy from the bowling alley? Yeah well keep him in mind because he plays a bigger role in this one. And Mia...well actually Mia's not all that bad. She's pretty decent- I didn't mind her one bit, but some people/characters might disagree with me. *Cough cough* Camie.
But as we all know, no Grab Your Poles book is complete without the Jenn Cooksey-laugh-until-you-can't-breathe-and-then-eventually-pass-out humour. Yes we have an abundance of serious moments, but those moments are nicely balanced out with Phineas', Ferb's, Jillian's, and Not-so-lonely-or-gay Pete's awesomeness.
And now... what you've all been waiting for.... Its' Quote time!
“Oh, I take that back. I’ll also be getting a decent night’s sleep because when you come over, you’re taking your fur-babies home with you. They’re off their schedule and now they’re beside themselves. They’ve started to howl all night. I’m not kidding, Tristan… all dang night. And they’re loud. I mean really loud, Tristan. Like mother, like kitty daughters except that they’re louder than Camie, if you get my meaning, which I’m sure you’ll agree is god-awful loud.” - Jillian
(Kindle Locations 1104-1108).
"I dumped the can of treats on my bed and then I started to build them a new catnip sock while they gorged themselves on junk food as a means of coping with their domestic troubles."- Tristan
(Kindle Locations 1456-1457).
“Go to McDonald’s this week and pick up a Happy Meal… the girls love the new toy. And just so you know, Phineas likes mustard on her cheeseburger, Ferb prefers chicken nuggets, they both take ranch with their fries, and contrary to what you might think, they both prefer strawberry shakes over chocolate or vanilla…oh, here, you know the drill,” - Tristan
(Kindle Locations 1496-1499).
LOL. I just realised all the quotes I chose are about Phineas and Ferb :D
So watchya waiting for folks? Go grab your copy, like, yesterday. And if you haven't read any of the books from the series, smack yourself. Go ahead. Do it. I'm waiting. Don't make me do it for you. Okay now get out from under that rock and go buy all the books in series. You know why? Because I just rated Shark Out of Water 4/5 stars, that's why.
Rating: 4/5 stars
Review first posted on Page Turner - http://crazyanimallover.blogspot.ca/
Now that being said, Shark Out of Water, like every other book in the Grab Your Poles series, was phenomenal. P.H.E.N.O.M.E.N.A.L.
Unlike the other books in the series, Shark Out of Water was written from the boys' POV. Its interesting to have insight into the workings of the male mind. And since we all know that guys being the typical guys that they are, they suck at communication, we had A LOT of sucking-at-communicating going on here. Okay, so I can't blame the guys alone; the girls were their partners in crime. I just feel like a lot of the drama could have been solved earlier if they had just talked to each other.
From the moment the book starts off we witness a lot of tension between Jeff and Tristan which was clearly hurting both of them on the inside considering the fact they'd declared themselves to be blood brothers and Tristan faked chicken pox and took a year off school to support a pox-ridden 8 year old Jeff. But don't worry folks, I can guarantee you that they sort it out man-to-man... in a very unmanly way. You'll know what I mean when you get to that part. Let me just tell you it involved an arrogant unicorn- that's all I'll say on that matter (and no, this isn't another example of my randomness- there really was a unicorn.)
We also got to learn a lot about Brandon, who's demeanor seems to have slightly changed since book two- not that I can blame him for it. Now personally speaking, I really enjoyed Brandon's character because not only was he sweet and funny in his own way, but he was also painfully honest and I admire that.
Now if you're someone like me and you were sincerely hoping everyone would just their shiz together soon enough and get to the good part... well you'll be as frustrated as I was. You know how I mentioned poor communication skills? Yeah well, I wasn't kidding. People don't start straightening major things out until 89% through the story (I checked).
But you wanna know the best part about it all -and by best I mean worst-? As if Tristan and Camie's problems weren't enough to torture us and keep us up at nights and glued to our e-readers, Jenn made sure to introduce Scott and Mia to the mix. Remember Scott? The guy from the bowling alley? Yeah well keep him in mind because he plays a bigger role in this one. And Mia...well actually Mia's not all that bad. She's pretty decent- I didn't mind her one bit, but some people/characters might disagree with me. *Cough cough* Camie.
But as we all know, no Grab Your Poles book is complete without the Jenn Cooksey-laugh-until-you-can't-breathe-and-then-eventually-pass-out humour. Yes we have an abundance of serious moments, but those moments are nicely balanced out with Phineas', Ferb's, Jillian's, and Not-so-lonely-or-gay Pete's awesomeness.
And now... what you've all been waiting for.... Its' Quote time!
“Oh, I take that back. I’ll also be getting a decent night’s sleep because when you come over, you’re taking your fur-babies home with you. They’re off their schedule and now they’re beside themselves. They’ve started to howl all night. I’m not kidding, Tristan… all dang night. And they’re loud. I mean really loud, Tristan. Like mother, like kitty daughters except that they’re louder than Camie, if you get my meaning, which I’m sure you’ll agree is god-awful loud.” - Jillian
(Kindle Locations 1104-1108).
"I dumped the can of treats on my bed and then I started to build them a new catnip sock while they gorged themselves on junk food as a means of coping with their domestic troubles."- Tristan
(Kindle Locations 1456-1457).
“Go to McDonald’s this week and pick up a Happy Meal… the girls love the new toy. And just so you know, Phineas likes mustard on her cheeseburger, Ferb prefers chicken nuggets, they both take ranch with their fries, and contrary to what you might think, they both prefer strawberry shakes over chocolate or vanilla…oh, here, you know the drill,” - Tristan
(Kindle Locations 1496-1499).
LOL. I just realised all the quotes I chose are about Phineas and Ferb :D
So watchya waiting for folks? Go grab your copy, like, yesterday. And if you haven't read any of the books from the series, smack yourself. Go ahead. Do it. I'm waiting. Don't make me do it for you. Okay now get out from under that rock and go buy all the books in series. You know why? Because I just rated Shark Out of Water 4/5 stars, that's why.
Rating: 4/5 stars
Review first posted on Page Turner - http://crazyanimallover.blogspot.ca/
August 2, 2013
I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I would.
Just like the previous books I found myself interested not just in what happened with Tristan and Camie (though, admittedly, they were my number one priority) but truly wondering about the other characters as well. And, just like the two previous books, I couldn't help but laugh throughout the story because there was some seriously funny shit in there.
The way in which Phineas and Ferb were truly treated as Camie and Tristan's "children" bordered on ridiculous but it was hilarious how Tristan and Camie spoke about them and the shared custody agreement.
I LOVED (seriously, loved) the rampage Tristan went on when his mom took his pillow and bedding and swapped it out for new stuff without asking permission. As a person who gets attached to her pillows and certain favorite throw blankets, I completely understand the trauma of someone taking your favorite shit without asking!
The way in which Hell and the Devil were constantly brought up to either compare a person or situation were awesome, really well done. Completely humorous.
"if Hell had a ball team, I bet this guy would be Satan's first round draft pick." (in reference to Pete)
Jillian was constantly, in this book and the previous books, compared to the devil or his right hand woman...and she kind of is but in a good way. The 13 year old who doesn't act her age in the slightest (in fact, I had to remind myself she was technically several years younger than the rest of the group) would be a scary as hell enemy but definitely the best possible ally. And, she's loyal sometimes it would seem like the loyalty was bought but under the surface, that girl knew who her friends were and she was scarily intuitive.
As much as I love all the characters in the series, I have come to regard her and Pete as the most intriguing set... I mean, how could you not consider them the most intriguing since they truly are spies?!?!?
The author did a damn good job of making a person question what they thought they knew. Based on the conclusion of TOFitS, it seemed like Tristan had really fucked up. Yet, something wasn't quite right. And, in the end, it's all about PERSPECTIVE! What you knew based on one persons POV and what actually happened. I admit, I had no idea what Tristan was hiding. I knew it was something but I hadn't gone down the road he did. Camie and Tristan had different perspectives because she couldn't remember everything that happened and he had a moral code that he felt he'd violated. No, it's not exactly that simple. I didn't give anything away...not really. I liked the whole red herring though because it was interesting trying to guess what the hell was going on.
The multiple POVs was a double edged sword. This was truly the first series I have read that had so many POVs and truthfully, it was hard to remember who was speaking at times or shift from one character to another even though the shifts were announced. On the other hand, it was unique to see how so many different people could be involved in the same set of events and all have a little bit of a different take on how they played out. This book is written from all the guys' POVS where TOFitS was written from the ladies' POVs. It was definitely unique despite the occasional confusion and back pedaling to remember whose POV I had shifted into.
The only other thing that bothered me about the writing was an extreme inconsistency with the tenses- pick one past or present but don't mix them! I found I had to put on my mental edit to start correcting the errors in my head because I couldn't stand the inconsistency and the awkwardness it created. There were also, at times, missing words that the reader's brain would have to fill in.
But, in ending on a high note...
The most notable thing about this series though, the characters are real and relatable. They make mistakes, experience love, loss, happiness, jealously and everything in between without it seeming too overly dramatic or soap operatic. Even the idea of soul mates wasn't too far out there. It was balanced with the thought that Camie and Tristan planned a future but didn't promise it. It wasn't unrealistic to think you could find the love of your life so young (though I maybe a little biased here since I married my high school sweetheart and we've been together ever since).
I' curious to know what happens to the rest of the characters and look forward to the next book in 2014. I was glad to see this book ended on a high note rather than the awfulness TOFitS ended on as it makes the wait for the next book much more bearable.
Just like the previous books I found myself interested not just in what happened with Tristan and Camie (though, admittedly, they were my number one priority) but truly wondering about the other characters as well. And, just like the two previous books, I couldn't help but laugh throughout the story because there was some seriously funny shit in there.
The way in which Phineas and Ferb were truly treated as Camie and Tristan's "children" bordered on ridiculous but it was hilarious how Tristan and Camie spoke about them and the shared custody agreement.
I LOVED (seriously, loved) the rampage Tristan went on when his mom took his pillow and bedding and swapped it out for new stuff without asking permission. As a person who gets attached to her pillows and certain favorite throw blankets, I completely understand the trauma of someone taking your favorite shit without asking!
The way in which Hell and the Devil were constantly brought up to either compare a person or situation were awesome, really well done. Completely humorous.
"if Hell had a ball team, I bet this guy would be Satan's first round draft pick." (in reference to Pete)
Jillian was constantly, in this book and the previous books, compared to the devil or his right hand woman...and she kind of is but in a good way. The 13 year old who doesn't act her age in the slightest (in fact, I had to remind myself she was technically several years younger than the rest of the group) would be a scary as hell enemy but definitely the best possible ally. And, she's loyal sometimes it would seem like the loyalty was bought but under the surface, that girl knew who her friends were and she was scarily intuitive.
As much as I love all the characters in the series, I have come to regard her and Pete as the most intriguing set... I mean, how could you not consider them the most intriguing since they truly are spies?!?!?
The author did a damn good job of making a person question what they thought they knew. Based on the conclusion of TOFitS, it seemed like Tristan had really fucked up. Yet, something wasn't quite right. And, in the end, it's all about PERSPECTIVE! What you knew based on one persons POV and what actually happened. I admit, I had no idea what Tristan was hiding. I knew it was something but I hadn't gone down the road he did. Camie and Tristan had different perspectives because she couldn't remember everything that happened and he had a moral code that he felt he'd violated. No, it's not exactly that simple. I didn't give anything away...not really. I liked the whole red herring though because it was interesting trying to guess what the hell was going on.
The multiple POVs was a double edged sword. This was truly the first series I have read that had so many POVs and truthfully, it was hard to remember who was speaking at times or shift from one character to another even though the shifts were announced. On the other hand, it was unique to see how so many different people could be involved in the same set of events and all have a little bit of a different take on how they played out. This book is written from all the guys' POVS where TOFitS was written from the ladies' POVs. It was definitely unique despite the occasional confusion and back pedaling to remember whose POV I had shifted into.
The only other thing that bothered me about the writing was an extreme inconsistency with the tenses- pick one past or present but don't mix them! I found I had to put on my mental edit to start correcting the errors in my head because I couldn't stand the inconsistency and the awkwardness it created. There were also, at times, missing words that the reader's brain would have to fill in.
But, in ending on a high note...
The most notable thing about this series though, the characters are real and relatable. They make mistakes, experience love, loss, happiness, jealously and everything in between without it seeming too overly dramatic or soap operatic. Even the idea of soul mates wasn't too far out there. It was balanced with the thought that Camie and Tristan planned a future but didn't promise it. It wasn't unrealistic to think you could find the love of your life so young (though I maybe a little biased here since I married my high school sweetheart and we've been together ever since).
I' curious to know what happens to the rest of the characters and look forward to the next book in 2014. I was glad to see this book ended on a high note rather than the awfulness TOFitS ended on as it makes the wait for the next book much more bearable.
July 30, 2013
I can't tell you how much I love this series. It is one of my favorites, and Jenn Cooksey has just outdone herself in the latest installment, Shark out of Water. I fell in love with Tristan, Camie, and the GYP gang in Shark Bait, which was told from Camie's point of view. In Fish out of Water, the story is told from alternating POV's from the girls. We also got to know the whole gang even better, but Jenn killed us (in a good way as I look at it in hindsight) with the ending. Needless to say all of the fans of the series have been dying to know what happens with Camie and Tristan next, and there has been much speculation from the fans of this series as to where things would go. Well let me tell you, a whole lot happens with not only Camie and Tristan, but also with Jeff, Kate, Brandon, Melissa, Pete and of course, Jillian, who is one of my favorite and is definitely the most diabolical of all the characters in the GYP series. We also get to know another character who we met briefly in The Other Fish in the Sea...dun dun dun dun dun dun (that is my attempt at the theme song from Jaws)...yes, that character would be Scott. Now I can't tell you what happens, but he is the guy that Camie briefly bumped into a couple of times in the last book and we've all be wondering what his role was going to be in the story.
Now, for the best part of all. Shark out of Water is told entirely from the guys' point of view!!!!! It is so awesome. We hear from Tristan, Jeff, Brandon, and Pete. I love, love, love stories told from the guy's POV. Now I must warn you, these are teenage boys, and they talk like teenage boys, they think like teenage boys, and the voice their opinion like teenage boy, so prepare yourself going in because they say what they think and they don't hold back, language and all. Personally, I loved it. It was so real, and to hear the things they talked about cracked me up. Another thing that totally blew my mind was the scenarios that Jenn came up with...the things that happened, the way they happened, the circumstances and events surrounding them, and the way she tied the future back to the past, particularly with Camie and Tristan (that's all I can say about that without spoiling it, but know that it is brilliant). I mean, you could do a research project on the inner workings of Jenn Cooksey's mind when you see how intricately she weaves her web connecting these characters and what happens with them together. I will never look at Saran Wrap the same way again, and every time I do, I will think of Shark out of Water (can't go into more detail than that, but when you get to that part, you'll know it and I am sure you'll think it is as hilarious as I did). The same thing goes for unicorns.
For fans of the series, like me, you will be thrilled with Shark out of Water and the direction the story takes. We get to find out so much more about the history of the characters and the mystery surrounding some of the things pertaining to the characters' pasts, especially Tristan. The ending is perfect and left me completely satisfied with where Jenn Cooksey took the characters in the third installment of this series, especially for those of us who had to consider therapy after the the last book ended - LOL. While leaving me completely satisfied, with a smile and a sigh, I cannot wait to see what happens next. I am already plotting in my mind, as I am sure many of you are and will be, what could possibly happen next. I am really, really hoping that Jenn delves in head first and deep into Jillian and Pete's story. I think everyone loves Jillian....I mean, how could you not. For those who don't know Jillian is Camie's younger sister. She is a diabolical mastermind and her thinking and actions are rivaled only by such people as Bond, James Bond, or the dude from Mission Impossible. Jillian is an enigma. She knows all, she sees all, and it is hilarious how all the guys are kind of afraid of her, all except for Pete. The other guys somewhat affectionately refer to her as the "spawn of Satan," but Jillian is painfully loyal to those she cares about. You just never want to get on her bad side or do something to make you the subject of her wrath. You can obviously tell she is one of my favorite characters in the story. That said, I'll end with well done Jenn Cooksey! I can't wait for the next installment.
Now, for the best part of all. Shark out of Water is told entirely from the guys' point of view!!!!! It is so awesome. We hear from Tristan, Jeff, Brandon, and Pete. I love, love, love stories told from the guy's POV. Now I must warn you, these are teenage boys, and they talk like teenage boys, they think like teenage boys, and the voice their opinion like teenage boy, so prepare yourself going in because they say what they think and they don't hold back, language and all. Personally, I loved it. It was so real, and to hear the things they talked about cracked me up. Another thing that totally blew my mind was the scenarios that Jenn came up with...the things that happened, the way they happened, the circumstances and events surrounding them, and the way she tied the future back to the past, particularly with Camie and Tristan (that's all I can say about that without spoiling it, but know that it is brilliant). I mean, you could do a research project on the inner workings of Jenn Cooksey's mind when you see how intricately she weaves her web connecting these characters and what happens with them together. I will never look at Saran Wrap the same way again, and every time I do, I will think of Shark out of Water (can't go into more detail than that, but when you get to that part, you'll know it and I am sure you'll think it is as hilarious as I did). The same thing goes for unicorns.
For fans of the series, like me, you will be thrilled with Shark out of Water and the direction the story takes. We get to find out so much more about the history of the characters and the mystery surrounding some of the things pertaining to the characters' pasts, especially Tristan. The ending is perfect and left me completely satisfied with where Jenn Cooksey took the characters in the third installment of this series, especially for those of us who had to consider therapy after the the last book ended - LOL. While leaving me completely satisfied, with a smile and a sigh, I cannot wait to see what happens next. I am already plotting in my mind, as I am sure many of you are and will be, what could possibly happen next. I am really, really hoping that Jenn delves in head first and deep into Jillian and Pete's story. I think everyone loves Jillian....I mean, how could you not. For those who don't know Jillian is Camie's younger sister. She is a diabolical mastermind and her thinking and actions are rivaled only by such people as Bond, James Bond, or the dude from Mission Impossible. Jillian is an enigma. She knows all, she sees all, and it is hilarious how all the guys are kind of afraid of her, all except for Pete. The other guys somewhat affectionately refer to her as the "spawn of Satan," but Jillian is painfully loyal to those she cares about. You just never want to get on her bad side or do something to make you the subject of her wrath. You can obviously tell she is one of my favorite characters in the story. That said, I'll end with well done Jenn Cooksey! I can't wait for the next installment.
April 1, 2014
**ARC provided by the author on behalf of The Autumn Review**
Ah, Tristan and Camie…I knew starting out that this was not going to be an easy journey for this beloved couple, but holy mackerel it was even harder on the heart than I expected! After a crushing break-up that left both Tristan and Camie reeling (and the fishing puns just keep coming…), the entire gang was feeling the effects of the aftermath. And (gasp!) they were taking sides. Yes, Shark Out of Water finds our favorite gang of rascal teens drawing lines in the sand and holding no punches for one hilarious, heartbreaking, and twisted ride!
That fateful night that found a drunken Tristan and Camie teetering on the edge of her lost virginity was not all it seemed to be. The mystery of what really happened isn’t revealed for quite awhile, but we get to see all of the GYP gang struggling with Tristan’s apparent decision to break Camie’s heart, and on her birthday no less. It’s a game of “he said, she said” as assumptions versus gut instincts find the friends on opposing sides of the argument. Did Tristan really mean to break up with the girl he loves? What is he hiding? Can the truth be worse than the lie he’s convinced everyone to believe? Tristan’s stubborn belief that he knows what’s best for Camie keeps him pushing her away, and he really hits rock bottom as he’s trying to cope with his guilt. Camie’s character felt distanced this time around, while I felt a lot closer to Tristan watching him go through all of this. He really grapples with some heavy issues and deep emotions, and it made me love him all that much more!
As in The Other Fish in the Sea, we have several POV and multiple storylines running parallel as these characters each deal with their own relationship woes. I loved getting lost in each one, whether it was Brandon’s frustrations with Melissa, Jeff’s internal battle with his disappointment in Tristan, or yes, even Jillian’s boyfriend drama!! I’ve said this in my reviews for the previous books in this series, but I LOVE each and every one of the characters Jenn Cooksey has created for us to enjoy! ALL of the characters have incredible personalities, and the way they interact and know each other so well and play off of each other with the amusement and drama is like a mix between a hysterical sitcom and an addicting soap opera! Seriously, even down to Tristan and Camie’s “kids” Phineas and Ferb (because they are without a doubt the freaking coolest cats ever), I adore them all!!
With Shark Out of Water, Cooksey once again doesn’t disappoint in thoroughly entertaining her readers, bringing more of the mind-boggling hilarity, drama, heart, and effortless charm that has had me hooked from the start of this series! There were some surprising twists that just made me melt, and of course, more Jillian hijinks because it just wouldn’t be right otherwise! The Grab Your Pole series is addicting and entertaining every step of the way, and I simply can’t wait for more!
Quotes:
I should’ve waited until he was out to do that, though, because let me tell you, it’s really tricky to avoid being kicked in the ribs by a six-foot four, drunk baby when he’s trying to keep you from pouring hydrogen peroxide on his owie. ~Pete, Loc 435
I watched the girls silently wander off to the gym where cheer practice was being held and all I could think about was having just unwittingly participated in voyeurism when I turned around and fucking screamed like a little girl. “You wanted to talk to me?” Jillian asked with one eyebrow raised superciliously. ~Jeff, Loc 1125
Like I said, I wanted to be surprised, but I wasn’t. Those cats just aren’t normal. They didn’t even flinch when the start buzzer sounded. However, I was surprised that they didn’t bolt from the stands and dive into the pool when their half-fish father did… ~Pete, Loc 4398
My instinct was to reach out and pull her to me. Not to kiss her or anything like that, but simply to hold her. To feel her close to me and let her feel me. We needed that. Our hearts were crying out for that. ~Tristan, Loc 4823
Ah, Tristan and Camie…I knew starting out that this was not going to be an easy journey for this beloved couple, but holy mackerel it was even harder on the heart than I expected! After a crushing break-up that left both Tristan and Camie reeling (and the fishing puns just keep coming…), the entire gang was feeling the effects of the aftermath. And (gasp!) they were taking sides. Yes, Shark Out of Water finds our favorite gang of rascal teens drawing lines in the sand and holding no punches for one hilarious, heartbreaking, and twisted ride!
That fateful night that found a drunken Tristan and Camie teetering on the edge of her lost virginity was not all it seemed to be. The mystery of what really happened isn’t revealed for quite awhile, but we get to see all of the GYP gang struggling with Tristan’s apparent decision to break Camie’s heart, and on her birthday no less. It’s a game of “he said, she said” as assumptions versus gut instincts find the friends on opposing sides of the argument. Did Tristan really mean to break up with the girl he loves? What is he hiding? Can the truth be worse than the lie he’s convinced everyone to believe? Tristan’s stubborn belief that he knows what’s best for Camie keeps him pushing her away, and he really hits rock bottom as he’s trying to cope with his guilt. Camie’s character felt distanced this time around, while I felt a lot closer to Tristan watching him go through all of this. He really grapples with some heavy issues and deep emotions, and it made me love him all that much more!
As in The Other Fish in the Sea, we have several POV and multiple storylines running parallel as these characters each deal with their own relationship woes. I loved getting lost in each one, whether it was Brandon’s frustrations with Melissa, Jeff’s internal battle with his disappointment in Tristan, or yes, even Jillian’s boyfriend drama!! I’ve said this in my reviews for the previous books in this series, but I LOVE each and every one of the characters Jenn Cooksey has created for us to enjoy! ALL of the characters have incredible personalities, and the way they interact and know each other so well and play off of each other with the amusement and drama is like a mix between a hysterical sitcom and an addicting soap opera! Seriously, even down to Tristan and Camie’s “kids” Phineas and Ferb (because they are without a doubt the freaking coolest cats ever), I adore them all!!
With Shark Out of Water, Cooksey once again doesn’t disappoint in thoroughly entertaining her readers, bringing more of the mind-boggling hilarity, drama, heart, and effortless charm that has had me hooked from the start of this series! There were some surprising twists that just made me melt, and of course, more Jillian hijinks because it just wouldn’t be right otherwise! The Grab Your Pole series is addicting and entertaining every step of the way, and I simply can’t wait for more!
Quotes:
I should’ve waited until he was out to do that, though, because let me tell you, it’s really tricky to avoid being kicked in the ribs by a six-foot four, drunk baby when he’s trying to keep you from pouring hydrogen peroxide on his owie. ~Pete, Loc 435
I watched the girls silently wander off to the gym where cheer practice was being held and all I could think about was having just unwittingly participated in voyeurism when I turned around and fucking screamed like a little girl. “You wanted to talk to me?” Jillian asked with one eyebrow raised superciliously. ~Jeff, Loc 1125
Like I said, I wanted to be surprised, but I wasn’t. Those cats just aren’t normal. They didn’t even flinch when the start buzzer sounded. However, I was surprised that they didn’t bolt from the stands and dive into the pool when their half-fish father did… ~Pete, Loc 4398
My instinct was to reach out and pull her to me. Not to kiss her or anything like that, but simply to hold her. To feel her close to me and let her feel me. We needed that. Our hearts were crying out for that. ~Tristan, Loc 4823
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